bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
1st ACM SIGSPATIAL Workshop on Geo-Computational Thinking in Education (GeoEd 2019)
Authors: Magdy Amr , Dony Coline
Published: February 2020

The 1st International Workshop on Geo-computational Thinking in Education (GeoEd 2019) was held in conjunction with the 27th ACM SIGSPATIAL International Conference on Advances in Geographic Information Systems (ACM SIGSPATIAL 2019). The workshop is intended to bring together experts from both geography (or related) and computer science disciplines who have primary interest in geospatial data and technologies, either from academia or industry, to discuss the grand challenges towards improving existing learning pathways through integration of geo-computational thinking in higher education. This could impact a variety of disciplines that increasingly deal with geospatial data beyond geography, such as social sciences, environmental sciences, public policy, climatology, and other geo-related disciplines. The workshop speakers and attendants have discussed their vision on challenges and opportunities of various topics within the workshop scope.
ARIC 2019 workshop report: The 2nd ACM SIGSPATIAL International Workshop on Advances in Resilient and Intelligent Cities
Authors: Kar Bandana , Omitaomu Olufemi A. , Ye Xinyue , Mohebbi Shima , Fu Guangtao
Published: February 2020

The advancements in sensor technology and ubiquity of connected devices has enabled the generation of large volume of disparate, dynamic and geographically distributed data both by scientific communities and citizens. With astonishing technological innovations and convergence, there have been major changes in peoples daily activities and social interaction. The socio-technological innovations motivate the concept of smart and connected cities. A smart city, however, is subjected to the same challenges as a conventional city, such as environmental damages, hazard impacts, access to services and resources, due to continuous population and economic growth. Therefore, it is imperative to improve our understanding of Resilient and Intelligent Cities in order to leverage technologies and artificial intelligence to tackle the challenges cities face, which range from climate change, public health, traffic congestion, economic growth, to digital divide, social equity, political movements, and cultural conflicts, among others.
Scalable Synthesis of Li2S Nanocrystals for Solid-State Electrolyte Applications
Authors: Zhao Yangzhi , Smith William , Wolden Colin A.
Published: February 2020

Lithium sulfide (Li2S) is a key component and major cost driver for sulfide-based solid-state electrolytes. However, this material is not commercially available in nanocrystal form. We previously demonstrated solution-based synthesis of Li2S nanocrystals (NCs) with tunable size in a small Parr reactor and validated their potential as cathode active materials. Herein, we report on the scale-up of both the synthesis and purification steps, generating meaningful quantities for solid-state electrolyte formation. Use of a bubble column reactor significantly increased production capacity by two orders of magnitude, from∼100 mg/batch to >10 g/batch. An evaporator/condenser and fluidized bed with corresponding capacity were introduced for solvent evaporation and annealing, respectively. Intrinsic purity, thermal stability, and morphology of those NCs are characterized by XRD, TGA, and SEM respectively. It is shown that the NC size and purity could be tuned by varying the annealing temperature. Li2S-P2S5 based glassy electrolytes formed by a combination of ball milling and cold pressing were used to illustrate the benefits of these Li2S NCs. It was shown that Li2S NCs reduced the mechanical ball mixing time required to make Li2S-P2S5 based glasses by at least 70% relative to commercial Li2S micro-powders. 70Li2S-30P2S5 glassy electrolytes were fabricated by cold pressing at various pressures and characterized by impedance spectroscopy and chronoamperometry. SSEs formed at the optimum condition exhibited high ionic conductivity (∼10−5 s cm−1), low electronic conductivity (∼10−10 s cm−1), and reasonable activation barrier (∼35 kJ mol−1). These properties were comparable to leading reports in the literature, validating the use of our material for solid-state electrolyte fabrication.
Use of Natural Products in Asthma Treatment
Authors: Amaral-Machado Lucas , Oliveira Wógenes N. , Moreira-Oliveira Susiane S. , Pereira Daniel T. , Alencar Éverton N. , Tsapis Nicolas , Egito Eryvaldo Sócrates T.
Published: February 2020

Asthma, a disease classified as a chronic inflammatory disorder induced by airway inflammation, is triggered by a genetic predisposition or antigen sensitization. Drugs currently used as therapies present disadvantages such as high cost and side effects, which compromise the treatment compliance. Alternatively, traditional medicine has reported the use of natural products as alternative or complementary treatment. The aim of this review was to summarize the knowledge reported in the literature about the use of natural products for asthma treatment. The search strategy included scientific studies published between January 2006 and December 2017, using the keywords “asthma,” “treatment,” and “natural products.” The inclusion criteria were as follows: (i) studies that aimed at elucidating the antiasthmatic activity of natural‐based compounds or extracts using laboratory experiments (in vitro and/or in vivo); and (ii) studies that suggested the use of natural products in asthma treatment by elucidation of its chemical composition. Studies that (i) did not report experimental data and (ii) manuscripts in languages other than English were excluded. Based on the findings from the literature search, aspects related to asthma physiopathology, epidemiology, and conventional treatment were discussed. Then, several studies reporting the effectiveness of natural products in the asthma treatment were presented, highlighting plants as the main source. Moreover, natural products from animals and microorganisms were also discussed and their high potential in the antiasthmatic therapy was emphasized. This review highlighted the importance of natural products as an alternative and/or complementary treatment source for asthma treatment, since they present reduced side effects and comparable effectiveness as the drugs currently used on treatment protocols.
Improved Coyote Optimization Algorithm for Optimally Installing Solar Photovoltaic Distribution Generation Units in Radial Distribution Power Systems
Authors: Nguyen Thang Trung , Pham Thai Dinh , Kien Le Chi , Van Dai Le
Published: February 2020

This paper proposes an improved coyote optimization algorithm (ICOA) for optimizing the location and sizing of solar photovoltaic distribution generation units (PVDGUs) in radial distribution systems. In the considered problem, four single objectives consisting of total power losses, capacity of all PVDGUs, voltage profile index, and harmonic distortions are minimized independently while satisfying branch current limits, voltage limits, and harmonic distortion limits exactly and simultaneously. The performance of the proposed ICOA method has been improved significantly since two improvements were carried out on the two new solution generations of the conventional coyote optimization algorithm (COA). By finding four single objectives from two IEEE distribution power systems with 33 buses and 69 buses, the impact of each proposed improvement and two proposed improvements on the real performance of ICOA has been investigated. ICOA was superior to COA in terms of capability of finding higher quality solutions, more stable search ability, and faster convergence speed. Furthermore, we have also applied five other metaheuristic algorithms consisting of biogeography-based optimization (BBO), genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO), sunflower optimization (SFO), and salp swarm algorithm (SSA) for dealing with the same problem and evaluating further performance of ICOA. The result comparisons have also indicated the outstanding performance of ICOA because it could find much better results than these methods, especially SFO, SSA, and GA. Consequently, the proposed ICOA is a very effective method for finding the optimal location and capacity of PVDGUs in radial distribution power systems.
Global Stability of Pneumococcal Pneumonia with Awareness and Saturated Treatment
Authors: Mbabazi Fulgensia Kamugisha , Mugisha J. Y. T. , Kimathi Mark
Published: February 2020

Pneumocccal pneumonia, a secondary bacterial infection that follows influenza A infection, is responsible for morbidity and mortality in children, elderly, and immunocomprised groups. A mathematical model to study the global stability of pneumococcal pneumonia with awareness and saturated treatment is presented. The basic reproduction number, R0, is computed using the next generation matrix method. The results show that if R0<1, the disease-free steady state is locally asymptotically stable; thus, pneumococcal pneumonia would be eradicated in the population. On the other hand, if R0>1 the endemic steady state is globally attractive; thus, the disease would persist in the population. The quadratic-linear and Goh–Voltera Lyapunov functionals approach are used to prove the global stabilities of the disease-free and endemic steady states, respectively. The sensitivity analysis of R0 on model parameters shows that, it is positively sensitive to the maximal effective rate before antibiotic resistance awareness, rate of relapse encountered in administering treatment, and loss of information by aware susceptible individuals. Contrarily, the sensitivity analysis of R0 on model parameters is negatively sensitive to recovery rate due to treatment and the rate at which unaware susceptible individuals become aware. The numerical analysis of the model shows that awareness about antibiotic resistance and treatment plays a significant role in the control of pneumococcal pneumonia.
Adsorption Capacities of Hygroscopic Materials Based on NaCl-TiO2 and NaCl-SiO2 Core/Shell Particles
Authors: Bermeo Marie , El Hadri Nabil , Ravaux Florent , Zaki Abdelali , Zou Linda , Jouiad Mustapha
Published: February 2020

Hygroscopic materials which possess high moisture adsorption capacity were successfully upgraded by the functionalization of sodium chloride (NaCl) using two nuances of oxides. A procedure was developed to first prepare submicron-sized NaCl crystals; thereafter, these crystals were coated by choice of either titanium dioxide (TiO2) or silica (SiO2) to enhance the hygroscopic properties of NaCl and prevent its premature deliquescence. After coating, several analytical techniques were employed to evaluate the obtained composite materials. Our findings revealed that both composites NaCl-TiO2 and NaCl-SiO2 gave excellent performances by exhibiting interesting hydrophilic properties, compared to the sole NaCl. This was demonstrated by both environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) and water vapor adsorption experiments. In particular, NaCl-TiO2 composite showed the highest water adsorption capacity at low relative humidity and at a faster adsorption rate, induced by the high surface energy owing to the presence of TiO2. This result was also confirmed by the kinetics of adsorption, which revealed that not only does NaCl-TiO2 adsorb more water vapor than NaCl-SiO2 or sole NaCl but also the adsorption occurred at a much higher rate. While at room temperature and high relative humidity, the NaCl-SiO2 composite showed the best adsorption properties making it ideal to be used as a hygroscopic material, showing maximum adsorption performance compared to NaCl-TiO2 or sole NaCl. Therefore, NaCl-TiO2 and NaCl-SiO2 composites could be considered as promising hygroscopic materials and potential candidates to replace the existing salt seeding agents.
The “One Piece” Autologous Tuberosity Graft: A Contemporary Concept in Ridge Preservation
Authors: Younes Ronald , Khairallah Carla Maria
Published: February 2020

Tooth extraction causes major changes to the ridge, rendering implant placement a more challenging procedure. Proper management of the socket is necessary to ensure sufficient bone and soft tissue for a successful implant-supported prosthesis. This article presents a practical approach for autologous hard and soft tissue grafting. A soft and hard tissue graft is harvested in one piece from the maxillary tuberosity and stabilized in the extraction socket.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T Gene Polymorphism as a Risk Factor for Hypertension in a Rural Population
Authors: Candrasatria Rony Mario , Adiarto Suko , Sukmawan Renan
Published: February 2020

Hypertension remains a public health burden despite advances in its management. Hence, the search for further risk stratification tools and prevention and new treatment approaches continues. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism is associated with hypertension. Interestingly, riboflavin, as a cofactor of MTHFR, may control blood pressure in patients with mutant MTHFR variants. These double benefits of a risk stratification tool and treatment approach make it interesting. Because this polymorphism depends on ethnicity and geographic region, we aimed to determine the association between MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism and hypertension in a rural Indonesian-Sundanese population. This population-based case-control study included 213 hypertensive subjects and 202 nonhypertensive subjects as controls. The TaqMan assay was used to determine the MTHFR C677T genotypes. The odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to assess the risk of association. There was a significant difference in MTHFR C677T allele frequencies between the hypertensive and control groups (62.9% CC, 34.3% CT, 2.8% TT vs. 77.7% CC, 20.8% CT, 1.5% TT; p=0.004) and between mutant (TT and CT) and wild-type genotypes (CC) (p=0.001). The mutant genotype was associated with a risk of hypertension (OR 2.1; 95% CI 1.3–3.5) when adjusted for age, body mass index, waist circumference, and diabetes mellitus. The mutant of the MTHFR C677T gene increases the risk of hypertension in rural Indonesian-Sundanese population. These findings may be used in future studies to evaluate the effect of riboflavin supplementation in this population.
A Rare Presentation of Pancreatic Lymphoepithelial Cyst: A Case Report and Review
Authors: Kim Grace E. , Ramay Fariha , Richards Stephanie , Darwin Peter E.
Published: February 2020

Pancreatic lymphoepithelial cyst (LEC) is a rare, benign collection of keratinizing squamous epithelial cells encapsulated by lymphoid tissue. Because of its limited data and nonspecific features that can mimic malignant lesions, LECs can lead to unnecessary operations. A 62-year-old male with a known pancreatic mass presented with abdominal pain. CT scan showed an increased mass in the pancreatic head, and endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) revealed “rare fragments of benign-appearing squamous epithelium in a background of keratin debris, cyst contents, and scattered lymphocytes,” consistent with a lymphoepithelial cyst. Pancreatic LEC is an extremely rare lesion that comprises of only 0.5% of all pancreatic cysts. EUS-FNA has become the mainstay for diagnosing pancreatic LECs. Given the slow growing and benign nature, conservative management and observation is adequate for pancreatic LECs with excellent long-term outcome. With increasing number of imaging ordered by clinicians, it is anticipated that there will be a greater number of incidental pancreatic LECs detected. Thus, EUS-FNA should be utilized more frequently to help distinguish benign pancreatic LECs from premalignant or malignant lesions to avoid surgery.
The HIPPO Transducer YAP and Its Targets CTGF and Cyr61 Drive a Paracrine Signalling in Cold Atmospheric Plasma-Mediated Wound Healing
Authors: Shome Debarati , von Woedtke Thomas , Riedel Katharina , Masur Kai
Published: February 2020

Reactive species play a pivotal role in orchestrating wound healing responses. They act as secondary messengers and drive redox-signalling pathways that are involved in the homeostatic, inflammatory, proliferative, and remodelling phases of wound healing. The application of Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) to the wound site produces a profusion of short- and long-lived reactive species that have been demonstrated to be effective in promoting wound healing; however, knowledge of the mechanisms underlying CAP-mediated wound healing remains scarce. To address this, an in vitro coculture model was used to study the effects of CAP on wound healing and on paracrine crosstalk between dermal keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Using this coculture model, we observed a stimulatory effect on the migration ability of HaCaT cells that were cocultured with dermal fibroblasts. Additionally, CAP treatment resulted in an upregulation of the HIPPO transcription factor YAP in HaCaTs and fibroblasts. Downstream effectors of the HIPPO signalling pathway (CTGF and Cyr61) were also upregulated in dermal fibroblasts, and the administration of antioxidants could inhibit CAP-mediated wound healing and abrogate the gene expression of the HIPPO downstream effectors. Interestingly, we observed that HaCaT cells exhibited an improved cell migration rate when incubated with CAP-treated fibroblast-conditioned media compared to that observed after incubation with untreated media. An induction of CTGF and Cyr61 secretion was also observed upon CAP treatment in the fibroblast-conditioned media. Finally, exposure to recombinant CTGF and Cyr61 could also significantly improve HaCaT cell migration. In summary, our results validated that CAP activates a regenerative signalling pathway at the onset of wound healing. Additionally, CAP also stimulated a reciprocal communication between dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes, resulting in improved keratinocyte wound healing in coculture.
Exploring the Organizational Culture in Adult Day Services (ADS) and Its Effect on Healthcare Delivery in Taiwan
Authors: Liou Chih-Ling , Dellmann-Jenkins Mary
Published: February 2020

Studies conducted in nursing homes/hospitals have shown that organizational culture plays an important role in care delivery and group culture leads to better quality of care. To explore the organizational culture and care delivery in adult day services (ADS) centers in Taiwan, we used both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Quantitative data from the Competing Values Framework (CVF) assessment showed that the group culture was dominant at all three centers. Qualitative data from observation and staff interviews uncovered both group and nongroup cultural elements. The group cultural elements, such as flexible management, teamwork environment, and sharing the same values, contributed to good care; however, the nongroup cultural elements, such as the staff-centered view, hierarchy, and conflicts within the leadership, led to negative staff-staff and staff-clients interactions. Further research is needed to untangle the complexity between quality care delivery and organizational culture.
Descending Necrotizing Mediastinitis Resulting from Pharyngitis with Perforation of the Aryepiglottic Fold
Authors: Pulst-Korenberg Alexandra , Morris Stephen C.
Published: February 2020

Descending necrotizing mediastinitis and pharyngeal perforation are uncommon complications of pharyngitis that are associated with high morbidity and mortality. This case report describes a previously healthy 18-year-old male who presented to the emergency room with 5 days of severe sore throat, intermittent fevers, and vomiting and was found to have extensive posterior pharyngeal and mediastinal air along with extravasation of contrast on computed tomography, consistent with perforation of the left aryepiglottic fold as well as descending necrotizing mediastinitis. The patient had a complicated hospital course including multiple operative interventions, abscess formation, and development of pericardial and pleural effusions. Successful treatment required swift resuscitation including broad-spectrum antibiotics and significant coordination of emergent operative intervention between otolaryngology and cardiothoracic surgery. It is important to recognize descending necrotizing mediastinitis as a clinical entity that may result from oropharyngeal infections as early intervention significantly decreases subsequent complications and mortality. Furthermore, pharyngeal perforation is an extremely rare complication which requires either CT with oral contrast or esophagram for diagnosis.
Metabolomics Analysis of Laparoscopic Surgery Combined with Wuda Granule to Promote Rapid Recovery of Patients with Colorectal Cancer Using UPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS/MS
Authors: Wang Tao , Xu Yihua , Chen Qicheng , Zheng Weilin , Wang Jie , Zeng Haiping , Wu Yuyan , Cao Lixing , Chen Zhiqiang
Published: February 2020

Surgery is the primary curative treatment for patients with nonmetastasized colorectal cancer (CRC). Rate of complications, morbidity, mortality, and overall survival of patients with CRC are factors associated with speed of recovery following surgery. Wuda granule (WD) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription used to promote rapid recovery after surgery. However, the specific mechanism of action of WD has not been characterized. Our study included 60 patients with clear histopathological evidence of colon or rectal cancer who underwent CRC laparoscopic surgery and 30 healthy individuals. Serum biochemistry and clinical evaluation of gastrointestinal function showed that WD could improve the nutritional status and gastrointestinal function and reduce the level of inflammation of patients with CRC following laparoscopic surgery. In addition, we used UPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS/MS‐based metabolomics analysis to determine the mechanism of WD‐related rapid recovery following laparoscopic surgery in patients with CRC. Twenty metabolites associated with arachidonic acid, alanine, aspartate and glutamate, α‐linolenic acid, pyruvate, histidine, and glycerophospholipids were identified. The results suggested that the therapeutic mechanism of laparoscopic surgery combined with WD may be related to regulation of nutritional status, inflammation, immune function, energy, and gastrointestinal function in patients with CRC. This study also highlighted the ability of TCM compounds to interact with multiple targets to induce synergistic effects. This study may result in further studies of WD as a therapeutic agent to promote recovery following surgical resection of CRC tumors.
Sealing Ability of Endodontic Cements: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Kikly Amira , Jaâfoura Sabra , Kammoun Dorra , Sahtout Saida
Published: February 2020

The root canal system must be obturated using a hermetic seal to prevent the penetration of microorganisms and bacterial toxins into the endodontic system. The principles of adhesive dentistry have been increasingly used in endodontics. In fact, resin-based sealers are increasingly used. The objective of this study was to evaluate, in vitro, the sealing ability of resin cement in comparison with calcium hydroxide-based cement. Materials and Methods. Eighty root canals were prepared with the Tilos system and were randomly divided into four groups according to the filling material. The best combination was evaluated on the basis of its sealing ability. The dye infiltration degree was evaluated using both a stereomicroscope after diaphanization and the dye rise test. Results. A significant difference was observed between the four obturation systems with regard to the number of infiltrated walls (p=0.014) and the infiltration depth (p=0.025). The group of teeth obturated with EndoREZ® and EndoREZ® gutta cones differ significantly from the group obturated with EndoREZ® cement and gutta-percha cones in terms of apical sealing (p=0.011). A significant difference was also observed between the group of teeth obturated using EndoREZ® gutta cones and EndoREZ® cement and the group of teeth obturated with EndoREZ® cement (p=0.026). Conclusion. When used with EndoREZ® gutta cones, EndoREZ® cement showed the best sealing ability, particularly in the apical region. When used with gutta-percha cones, Acroseal and EndoREZ® cements exhibited similar sealing abilities.
Shear Behaviors of the Intersurface between Rice Straw Rope and Dredger Fill Silt: Experimental and Mechanism Studies
Authors: Xu Guizhong , Chen Ji , Shi Shenjie , Tian Angran , Tang Qiang
Published: February 2020

The further development of land reclamation, port waterway, and wharf construction brings about proper treatments of dredger fill silt, while huge amounts of rice straw set aside in China argument rational disposal every year. Therefore, rice straw is bundled up as ropes, which represent as drainage body and reinforcement, to make eco‐friendly treatment for dredger fill silt. This paper investigates the mechanical properties and validity of rice straw rope as certain treating material of dredger fill silt through a series of pull‐out test, mass loss test, and tension test on specimens with different water contents and dry densities. The results reveal that peak value of interfacial shear strength rises with the increase of normal stress at the same immersion time, and in particular, it rises by up to 250.0% when the normal stress is 40 kPa. The tensile force of rice straw rope increases slowly with the rise of tensile displacement, and the failure mode changes from brittle to ductile with the rise of immersion time, which witnesses first rapid back slow degradation trend. The proper interfacial shear strength, tensile force, and reasonable degradation rate of rice straw rope make it ideal in drainage and consolidation of dredger fill silt.
Alternative to General Anesthesia for a Stat Cesarean Delivery in a Patient with a Large Arteriovenous Malformation Involving the Cervicomedullary Junction in Active Labor
Authors: Santos Christiano dos Santos e , Joyner David A. , Tuma Santos Cristiane A. , Grayson Bernadette E. , Calimaran Arthur , Bacon Douglas R.
Published: February 2020

A 20-year-old G1P0 patient at 38 weeks and 1 day of gestation was admitted for emergency cesarean delivery. Her past medical history was positive for cervicomedullary arteriovenous malformation (AVM) that ruptured three years before. Spontaneous vaginal delivery was contraindicated by neurosurgery. Aiming for cardiovascular stability and immediate reduction of sympathetic activity, a combined spinal epidural was successfully placed. An uneventful cesarean section was performed. The patient was transferred to the intensive care unit neurologically intact and discharged home after 8 days. This report describes an unusual anesthetic management of a patient with a large AVM in active labor.
Study on Vortex-Induced Vibration of Deep-Water Marine Drilling Risers in Linearly Sheared Flows in consideration of Changing Added Mass
Authors: Gao Guanghai , Cong Xiao , Cui Yunjing , Qiu Xingqi
Published: February 2020

In order to more accurately predict the coupled in-line and cross-flow vortex-induced vibration (VIV) response of deep-water marine drilling risers in linearly sheared flows, an improved three-dimensional time-domain coupled model based on van der Pol wake oscillator models was established in this paper. The impact of the in-line and cross-flow changing added mass coefficients was taken into account in the model. The finite element, Newmark-β, and Newton–Raphson methods were adopted to solve the coupled nonlinear partial differential equations. The entire numerical solution process was realized by a self-developed program based on MATLAB. Comparisons between the numerical calculations and the published experimental tests showed that the improved model can more accurately predict some main features of the coupled in-line and cross-flow VIV of long slender flexible risers in linearly sheared flows to some extent. The coupled in-line and cross-flow VIV of a real-size marine drilling riser, usually used in the deep-water oil/gas industry in the South China Sea, was analyzed. The influence of top tension force and seawater flow speed, as well as platform heave amplitude and frequency, on the riser in-line and cross-flow VIV was also discussed. The results show that the platform heave motion increases the VIV displacements and changes the magnitudes of peak frequencies as well as the components of frequencies. The platform heave motion also has a significant influence on the vibration modes of the middle and upper sections of the riser. The impact level of each factor on the in-line and cross-flow VIV response of the riser is different. The improved model and the results of this paper can be used as a reference for the engineering design of deep-water marine drilling risers.
Invisible Facial Flushing in Two Cases of Dengue Infection and Influenza Detected by PC Program and Smartphone App: Decorrelation Stretching and K-Means Clustering
Authors: Arpornsuwan Manote , Arpornsuwan Matinun
Published: February 2020

We report the two cases of dengue infection and influenza with invisible facial flushing. The invisible facial flushing can be detected and visible by the Manote and Matinun (M&M) technique using PC program and smartphone app (decorrelation stretching and K-Means clustering). The unique patterns of facial flushing in the patients with high fever provide a clue to the diagnosis of dengue infection and influenza. This new innovative method could detect dengue infection and influenza earlier in the patients with high fever.
Viral Suppression and Its Associated Factors in HIV Patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART): A Retrospective Study in the Ho Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Lokpo Sylvester Yao , Ofori-Attah Patrick Jnr , Ameke Louis Selassie , Obirikorang Christian , Orish Verner Ndudiri , Kpene Godsway Edem , Agboli Eric , Kye-Duodu Gideon , Deku John Gameli , Awadzi Benedict Kwame , Noagbe Mark , Tetteh Quarshie Seyram
Published: February 2020

Background. The WHO targets to end HIV/AIDS as a public health problem by 2030. The introduction of the ambitious “90-90-90” strategy to attain this target is expected to be achieved by the year 2020. However, there is lack of regional data, especially on the third “90.” This study sought to assess the rate and associated factors of viral suppression among people living with HIV (PLWH) on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) at the Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Clinic in a Ghanaian health facility.Method. The study design was a retrospective analysis of secondary data of 284 HIV registrants on HAART for at least 6 months at the ART Clinic from July 2016 to April 2019. Data on sociodemography including age, gender, marital status, education, and occupation as well as pharmacological (type of medication and duration on medication) and laboratory variable (current viral load results) were extracted from patients’ folders. Viral suppression and failure were determined using the WHO definitions (viral suppression as viral load <1000 copies/ml and virologic failure ≥1000 copies/ml). Regular clinic attendance (used as a proxy measure for medication adherence) was defined as consistent monthly clinic attendance for HAART medication and other clinical management within the past 12 months.Results. Out of the 284 HIV patients, 195 (69%) achieved viral suppression. Of the 195 who were virally suppressed, 77 (39.5%) had undetectable levels, with a similar proportion (39.5%) achieving viral load results ranging from 20 to 200 copies/ml. Moreover, 27 (13.8%) patients had viral load ranging from 201 to 500 copies/ml while 14 (7.2%) recorded viral load from 501 to 1000 copies/ml. No clear pattern in the viral suppression rate was associated with the age groups (p=0.1152). However, regular clinic attendance (used as proxy for medication adherence) (p<0.0001) and being on HAART for more than three (3) years (p=0.03) were associated with viral suppression.Conclusion. The rate of viral suppression among PLWH on HAART in the Ho municipality fell short of the WHO target. However, the study identified regular ART clinic attendance and treatment >3 years as factors associated with viral suppression.
Using Marketing Automation to Modernize Data Collection in the California Teachers Study Cohort
Authors: Savage Kristen E. , Benbow Jennifer L. , Duffy Christine , Spielfogel Emma S. , Chung Nadia T. , Wang Sophia S. , Martinez Maria Elena , Lacey James V.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Like other cancer epidemiologic cohorts, the California Teachers Study (CTS) has experienced declining participation to follow-up questionnaires; neither the reasons for these declines nor the steps that could be taken to mitigate these trends are fully understood.

Methods:

The CTS offered their 6th study questionnaire (Q6) in the fall of 2017 using an integrated, online system. The team delivered a Web and mobile-adaptive questionnaire to 45,239 participants via e-mail using marketing automation technology. The study's integrated platform captured data on recruitment activities that may influence overall response, including the date and time invitations and reminders were e-mailed and the date and time questionnaires were started and submitted.

Results:

The overall response rate was 43%. Participants ages 65 to 69 were 25% more likely to participate than their younger counterparts (OR = 1.25; 95% CI, 1.18–1.32) and nonwhite participants were 28% less likely to participate than non-Hispanic white cohort members (OR = 0.72; 95% CI, 0.68–0.76). Previous questionnaire participation was strongly associated with response (OR = 6.07; 95% CI, 5.50–6.70). Invitations sent after 2 pm had the highest response (OR = 1.75; 95% CI, 1.65–1.84), as did invitations sent on Saturdays (OR = 1.48; 95% CI, 1.36–1.60).

Conclusions:

An integrated system that captures paradata about questionnaire recruitment and response can enable studies to quantify the engagement patterns and communication desires of cohort members.

Impact:

As cohorts continue to collect scientific data, it is imperative to collect and analyze information on how participants engage with the study.

See all articles in this CEBP Focus section, “Modernizing Population Science.”
Expression of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases on Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma and Healthy Donors
Authors: Tsimafeyeu Ilya , Volkova Maria , Olshanskaia Anna , Raskin Grigory , Aschuba Saida , Khochenkova Yulia , Bondarenko Anastasia , Khochenkov Dmitry
Published: February 2020

Background: Very little is known about receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) expression on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in humans including renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients. Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to evaluate expression levels of major RTKs on PBMC and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) isolated from RCC patients. The secondary aim was to compare levels of RTK expression in RCC patients before surgery and on the 180th day after surgery (lymphocyte lifetime) and to compare them with the expression in healthy donors. In addition, we compared RTK and PD-L1 expression in TIL. Methods: Tumor and blood samples were obtained from 20 patients with primary RCC immediately after surgical resection. Blood samples were collected from 20 healthy donors. Tumors were harvested into RPMI 1640 medium (Gibco) and processed within 4 h. TIL isolation was performed using a modified protocol [Baldan et al. Br J Cancer. 2015;112:1510–18]. Expression of RTKs was evaluated with NovoExpress Software. Twenty tumors from the same patients were stained with PD-L1 IHC assay (clone SP142; Ventana). Results: PBMC and TIL express RTKs in humans. The RTK expression level was significantly lower on peripheral blood cells in patients with RCC (mean 41%, range 27.1–62.6%) as compared with healthy donor PBMC (mean 77.1%, range 72.1–80.1%, all p < 0.05). Furthermore, RTK expression was significantly downregulated on intratumoral cells (mean 40%, range 23.2–52.3%) in comparison with healthy donor PBMC. There was no significant recovery of RTK expression on the 180th day except for VEGFR2. Five of 20 (25%) patients were PD-L1 positive. PD-L1 expression on TIL was strongly associated with downregulated expression of PDGFRα (p = 0.017) and PDGFRβ (p = 0.024). Conclusions: PBMC and TIL had similar low RTK expression levels in RCC patients. PBMC of healthy humans had a significantly higher expression of RTK. PD-L1 and PDGFRα-β expression could correlate. Comprehensive basic and clinical studies will be needed to define a biological role of RTKs on different lymphocyte subsets and correlations between clinical outcomes and expression levels.
Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in the Short-Term Evaluation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Locoregional Treatment
Authors: Ainora Maria Elena , Iezzi Roberto , Ponziani Francesca Romana , Garcovich Matteo , Di Stasio Enrico , Riccardi Laura , Annicchiarico Brigida Eleonora , Abbate Valeria , De Gaetano Anna Maria , Siciliano Massimo , Grieco Antonio , Rapaccini Gian Lodovico , Gasbarrini Antonio , Pompili Maurizio , Zocco Maria Assunta
Published: February 2020

Background: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) with second-generation contrast agents performed 1 month after hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment is almost as sensitive as contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) in depicting the residual tumor. However, the efficacy of CEUS performed early after the procedure is still debated. Aim: We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy (DA) of CEUS for the assessment of tumor response shortly after locoregional therapy in patients with unresectable HCC. Methods: Ninety-four patients with 104 HCC lesions who were scheduled to receive percutaneous ethanol injection, radiofrequency ablation, transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, or combined treatment were enrolled in this study. With CECT at 1-month as the reference standard, the DA of CEUS performed 48-h after the procedure was evaluated. Patients were followed-up to look for tumor or disease progression. Results: Based on CECT findings, 43/104 lesions were diagnosed as having residual viability after 1 month. CEUS performed 48 h after treatment detected residual tumor in 34/43 nodules with treatment failure at CECT with a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of 79.1, 96.7, 94.4, 86.8, and 89%, respectively. There was a high degree of concordance between CEUS and CECT (kappa coefficient = 0.78). A hyperemic halo was detectable in 35 lesions without a statistically significant difference between concordant and discordant cases. In patients with uninodular disease responders according to 48 h CEUS had a significantly longer mean overall survival and time to progression compared to nonresponders. Conclusion: CEUS performed 48 h after treatment can be considered a reliable modality for the evaluation of the real extent of necrosis and has prognostic value in the assessment of HCC.
The genus Cuernavaca (Hemiptera: Dictyopharidae), associated with Pontederiaceae in South America, with redescription and new records of C. inexacta (Walker)
Authors: Remes Lenicov Ana María Marino de , Hernádez María Cristina , Sosa Alejandro Joaquín , Oleiro Marina Inés
Published: February 2020

The aim of this paper is to shed light on the boundaries of two sympatric species of Cuernavaca, C. inexacta and C. longula, to enable further ecological studies. Species in this genus are associated with water hyacinths in wetlands of Northeastern Argentina (Paraná-Paraguay waterway system) and the Peruvian Amazon. This work lists new host records for Cuernavaca, which include Pontederia crassipes, P. cordata, P. subovata and P. rotundifolia (Pontederiaceae). A redescription for C. inexacta with new diagnostic genitalic features is also provided, as well as an updated identification key and a distribution map. The genus is distributed throughout Central and South America, reaching north and central Argentina in its southernmost distribution.
O enfrentamento do estigma vivido por mulheres/mães usuárias de crack
Authors: Camargo Paola De Oliveira , Oliveira Michele Mandagará de , Herreira Lieni Fredo , Martins Maria De Fátima Duarte , Luft Camila Feijó , Kantorski Luciane Prado
Published: February 2020

O estudo objetivou conhecer como mulheres usuárias de crack vivenciam a maternidade e enfrentam os estigmas estabelecidos pela sociedade. Realizou-se observação participante com cinco mulheres, entrevistas semi-estruturadas e construção de diário de campo, elencadas categorias culturais e os dados tratados a partir do Interpretativismo de Geertz. Percebemos o quanto as participantes enfrentam dificuldades para criar seus filhos, principalmente pelo preconceito que sofrem, o quanto foi difícil lidar com a maternidade e o uso de crack ao mesmo tempo. Estas mulheres sofrem com a exclusão social e a marginalização, muitas vezes resultando em dificuldades no acesso aos serviços de saúde.
Cuidado de enfermagem na perspectiva do sujeito do inconsciente e sua contribuição ao Projeto Terapêutico Singular
Authors: Pintor Laís Angelina , Toledo Vanessa Pellegrino , Garcia Ana Paula Rigon Francischetti
Published: February 2020

Objetivo: construir uma proposta de cuidado de enfermagem a partir da leitura do sujeito do inconsciente, por meio do método da Construção de Caso Clínico em Saúde Mental, apontando sua contribuição para o Projeto Terapêutico Singular. Método: realizou-se a construção de caso clínico de um paciente frequentador de um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial da rede municipal de saúde de Campinas. Resultados: foram ordenados, por cotejamento, os principais significantes do discurso do sujeito, da família e da instituição. Conclusão: o cuidado de enfermagem ao paciente psicótico, fundamentado na singularidade, possibilita construir novos efeitos terapêuticos, pode favorecer que o paciente retome sua posição de sujeito e traz a contribuição do enfermeiro ao Projeto Terapêutico Singular.
Transtornos psiquiátricos menores em usuários de substâncias psicoativas
Authors: Silveira Karine Langmantel , Oliveira Michele Mandagará de , Alves Poliana Farias
Published: February 2020

Objetivo: verificar a prevalência de Transtornos Psiquiátricos Menores de acordo com o perfil demográfico e socioeconômico, com o tipo de droga utilizada e com as condições de saúde dos usuários de crack, álcool e outras drogas. Metodologia: estudo transversal, com amostra de 505 usuários. Utilizou-se o Self-Reporting Questionnaire para verificação da prevalência dos transtornos. Resultados: a prevalência encontrada foi de 28,7%, sendo superior entre usuários de crack, mulheres, negros, divorciados ou viúvos, desempregados, entrevistados com problema de saúde, autoavaliação de saúde ruim e que estão insatisfeitos com relacionamentos familiares. Conclusão: constatou-se que a presença dos Transtornos Psiquiátricos Menores pode estar relacionada com alguns fatores que incluem não apenas as características individuas, mas também questões sociais, culturais, econômicas, entre outras.
Cultura empreendedora e espírito do tempo
Authors: Casaqui Vander
Published: February 2020

Esse artigo parte da noção de contemporâneo de Agamben (2009) e do campo da comunicação, para tratar do enfrentamento das questões emergentes de nosso tempo – os temas identificados com as agendas de nação, como é o empreendedorismo. Nesse sentido, propomos a análise crítica dos discursos sociais, observados como sintomas do espírito do tempo. Mais especificamente, lançamos o olhar dissociado, proposto por Agamben, aos discursos relacionados à cultura empreendedora.
O discurso do empreendedorismo e inovação nas relações de trabalho
Authors: Silva Daniel Reis , Lima Fábia Pereira
Published: February 2020

O artigo reflete criticamente sobre como valores associados com uma cultura de gestão empreendedora são incorporados, naturalizados e romantizados por ofertas de emprego de organizações contemporâneas de comunicação, especialmente start-ups. Realiza a análise de postagens coletadas no Vagas Arrombadas, página que expõe vagas consideradas abusivas, revelando dois quadros de sentido que ocultam, e fomentam, elementos da precarização das relações de trabalho: (a) a não conformidade com o espaço organizacional e (b) a não conformidade com a dinâmica de trabalho tradicional.
Novel Long Noncoding RNA, Macrophage Inflammation-Suppressing Transcript (
MIST
), Regulates Macrophage Activation During Obesity
Authors: Stapleton Kenneth , Das Sadhan , Reddy Marpadga A. , Leung Amy , Amaram Vishnu , Lanting Linda , Chen Zhuo , Zhang Lingxiao , Palanivel Rengasamy , Deiuliis Jeffrey A. , Natarajan Rama
Published: February 2020

Objective:

Systemic low-grade inflammation associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome is a strong risk factor for the development of diabetes mellitus and associated cardiovascular complications. This inflammatory state is caused by release of proinflammatory cytokines by macrophages, especially in adipose tissue. Long noncoding RNAs regulate macrophage activation and inflammatory gene networks, but their role in macrophage dysfunction during diet-induced obesity has been largely unexplored.

Approach and Results:

We sequenced total RNA from peritoneal macrophages isolated from mice fed either high-fat diet or standard diet and performed de novo transcriptome assembly to identify novel differentially expressed mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs. A top candidate long noncoding RNA, macrophage inflammation-suppressing transcript (
Mist
), was downregulated in both peritoneal macrophages and adipose tissue macrophages from high-fat diet–fed mice. GapmeR-mediated
Mist
knockdown in vitro and in vivo upregulated expression of genes associated with immune response and inflammation and increased modified LDL (low-density lipoprotein) uptake in macrophages. Conversely,
Mist
overexpression decreased basal and LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-induced expression of inflammatory response genes and decreased modified LDL uptake. RNA-pull down coupled with mass spectrometry showed that
Mist
interacts with PARP1 (poly [ADP]-ribose polymerase-1). Disruption of this RNA-protein interaction increased PARP1 recruitment and chromatin PARylation at promoters of inflammatory genes, resulting in increased gene expression. Furthermore, human orthologous
MIST
was also downregulated by proinflammatory stimuli, and its expression in human adipose tissue macrophages inversely correlated with obesity and insulin resistance.

Conclusions:

Mist
is a novel protective long noncoding RNA, and its loss during obesity contributes to metabolic dysfunction and proinflammatory phenotype of macrophages via epigenetic mechanisms.