bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beer Brand Word-of-Mouth Drivers in Colombia: A Qualitative Exploration
Authors: Stahl Philipp G , Tjandra Nathalia C , Feri Alessandro , Marshall Kristen
Published: October 2019

This paper explores which motivational drivers incline consumers to engage in word-of-mouth (WOM) communication within the Colombian beer market, forecast to be among the most important beer markets during the coming years. Colombian consumers are primarily influenced by recommendations from friends and family and are therefore more likely to adopt new products due to WOM rather than mass communication. Yet marketers still have little knowledge of how to manage WOM effectively, especially in the Latin America region. Consequently, the authors adopt a qualitative research method conducting semi-structured interviews with fifteen Colombian beer market mavens aimed at exploring which motivational drivers cause consumers to engage in WOM. Twelve motivational drivers were found for WOM about beer brands. Of these, two were found to be partially important, and three appeared to be necessary. The findings of this study propose a number of recommendations to be made for enhancing motivational drivers to generate more WOM. The findings of the study could be used to develop a quantitative measurement identifying which of the motivational drivers have the most influence on Colombian consumers to engage in WOM. This research could assist brewing businesses to internationalise into the Colombian beer market and to achieve competitive advantage.
Women
Authors: Gunawan Hero , Astari Risti
Published: October 2019

This research discusses features of women
SEXUAL EUPHEMISM EXPRESSED IN POP AND HIP HOP LYRIC SONGS: A PRAGMATIC STUDY
Authors: Kusumah Cita Mustika
Published: October 2019

This research aims to describe and give an overview of the use of sexual euphemism in pop and hip hop lyric songs to avoid taboo words which are usually unfreely to mention in public. The researcher uses qualitative method and descriptive method to analyze the data. The researcher uses forty songs consist of twenty pop songs and twenty hip hop songs to be analysed. From forty songs, the researcher finds ninety seven data. Researcher believes the data are found to contain sexual euphemism in the utterance that included in pragmatic study.Researcher describes and analyzes every single of data that are included the theory of Allan and Buridge (1991). From the research data, the researcher found that there is a differential usage of sexual euphemism in pop and hip hop which is sexual euphemism in sexual activity appears more frequently in pop songs and sexual euphemism in sexual body parts appears more frequently in hip hop songs. Both pop and hip hop songs use representative speech act more frequently than directive speech act. Euphemism was used in the lyrics to avoid words that are considered taboo in some communities.Keywords: speech act, sexual euphemismINTRODUCTIONIn
Syntactic and Semantic Analysis on Slogans of Aviation Companies in Asean Countries
Authors: Simatupang Ervina CM
Published: October 2019

The title of this study is Syntactic and Sematic Analysis on Slogans of Aviation in Asean Countries. The aim of this study is to analyze and describe the slogans of aviation companies in Asean companies syntactically and semantically. The method used in this study is descriptive method. Data source are taken from official websites of various aviation companies in Asean countries, and there are taken from Wikipedia as the website has listed in chart. The chart has covered the profile of the aviation companies in Asean countries. The theories used to analyze the data syntactically are from O
From the Desk of Editor-in-Chief Vol 9(3)
Authors: Khan Md Aminul Haque
Published: October 2019

Abstract not available

J Enam Med Col 2019; 9(3): 147
Similarities between Preexplorative Diagnosis and Perexplorative Findings of Intestinal Obstruction Patients in Two Tertiary Care Hospitals in Bangladesh
Authors: Akter Sonia , Paul Deb Prosad , Das Debasish
Published: October 2019

Background: Intestinal obstruction is a common surgical problem that surgeons face in clinical practice. Still intestinal obstruction is a major problem in medical college hospitals in Bangladesh. Causes of intestinal obstruction remain same as earlier. There is lack of statistical data in our country. So, this study will be helpful in various aspect of management of intestinal obstruction patients by providing data.

Objective: To find out similarities between preoperative diagnosis with actual peroperative findings of intestinal obstruction.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from April 2013 to April 2014 at Enam Medical College Hospital and Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Two hundred patients were selected by purposive sampling of diagnosed cases of intestinal obstruction.

Results: Among the subjects male were 124 (62%) and female were 76 (38%). Mean age was 34.56 ± 9.13 years. The maximum respondents were from 21–30 years age group (54%) followed by 31–40 years (18%) age group. Chronic intestinal obstruction was present in 53% cases and acute intestinal obstruction in 47% cases. The clinical profile showed that all patients had abdominal pain followed by vomiting (78%). The preoperative diagnosis of intestinal obstruction was neoplastic obstruction (24%) followed by obstructed hernia (22.5%). The highest similarities (100%) were observed in case of volvulus and ileosigmoid knotting. Obstructed hernia had the highest accuracy (97.7%) followed by neoplastic obstruction (91.66%). Maximum patients (13.5%) suffered from wound infection followed by burst abdomen (3%).

Conclusion: The preoperative diagnoses are very much similar to peroperative findings. The clinical parameters and other mandatory diagnostic tools commonly used in tertiary level hospitals in our country showed diagnostic accuracy in diagnosis of intestinal obstruction.

J Enam Med Col 2019; 9(3): 155-159
Effect of Elevated Temperature on Immediate Neurodevelopmental Outcome in Term Neonates with Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Debnath Bithi , Khan Naila Zaman , Begum Dilara , Shilpi Asma Begum , Akter Shaheen
Published: October 2019

Background: Among term infants, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy due to acute perinatal asphyxia remains an important cause of neurodevelopmental deficits in childhood. Treatment is currently limited to supportive intensive care, without any specific brain-oriented therapy.

Objective: To determine whether the risk of death or moderate/severe neurodevelopmental impairment in term infants with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy increases with relatively high skin or rectal temperature between 12 and 72 hours of birth.

Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study. Asphyxiated newborns who came within 12 hours of birth were enrolled in this study. Both axillary and rectal temperature were recorded 6 hourly for 72 hours and each infant`s temperature for each site were rank ordered. Then mean of all axillary and rectal temperatures of each neonate was calculated. Outcomes were related to temperatures in logistic regression analyses for the elevated/relatively high temperatures and normal/low temperatures group, with adjustment of the level of encephalopathy and gender.

Results: The mean axillary temperature was 36.07 ± 6.10C and in 25.71%, 11.92% and 6.32% cases axillary temperatures were >370C, >37.50C and >380C respectively. The mean rectal temperature was 36.8 ± 60C, and in 43.53%, 30.02% and 19.97% cases rectal temperatures were >370C, >37.50C and >380C respectively. Mean ambient temperature was 26.170C. There was significant correlation between axillary and rectal temperatures (r=0.889). For elevated temperature, the odds of death or moderate to severe impairment increased 8.9-fold (CI 0.906–88.18) and the odds of death alone increased 4.6-fold (CI 0.373–56.83). The odds of impairment increased 1.84-fold (CI 0.45– 7.50).

Conclusion: Relatively high temperature during usual care after hypoxic-ischemia in term neonates was associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.

J Enam Med Col 2019; 9(3): 160-165
Triglyceride to High Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol Ratio as Predictor of Cardiometabolic Risk among Doctors
Authors: Mozaffor Miliva , Rahman Md Matiur
Published: October 2019

Background: Cardiometabolic risk indicates high risk of cardiovascular disease for a person. Obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, insulin resistance and dyslipidemia are the contributing factors for cardiometabolic risk.

Objective: This cross sectional analytical study was conducted to evaluate triglyceride to high density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio as predictor of cardiometabolic risk among doctors and to compare the risk between male and female doctors.

Results: One hundred ninety five doctors were enrolled in this study. According to triglyceride to high density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio 63.5% doctors have cardiometabolic risk in which male and female doctors were 66.3% and 57.5% respectively. The prevalence was apparently higher in male doctors than in female doctors. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis on the basis of triglyceride to high density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio at a cutoff value ≥3.0 showed area under curve 0.81 (p value=0.000) with sensitivity 72.3% and specificity 75.8%.

Conclusion: It may be concluded from this study that triglyceride to high density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio is a good predictor of cardiometabolic risk among doctors.

J Enam Med Col 2019; 9(3): 181-184
A 35-Year-Old Male with Virocid-Chemical Disinfectant Poisoning
Authors: Khanum Easnem , Islam Ashraful , Akter Rahima , Mondol Kanti , Hoque Md Rezaul
Published: October 2019

Virocid is a highly concentrated potent broad-spectrum disinfectant which is used in different sectors such as animal husbandry (poultry, pigs, cattle), agriculture, food processing, hospitals, horticulture, animal transport, feed storage, fish farming, personal hygiene etc. Here we report a case of a 35-year-old male poultry owner who attempted suicide following ingestion of about 10 mL of virocid (chemical disinfectant) and presented with severe burning sensation from throat to the epigastric region, abdominal pain, generalized muscle weakness, several episodes of vomiting and respiratory distress. The patient was treated conservatively along with mechanical ventilator support. After improving condition on 3rd day ventilator support was withdrawn and patient was shifted to step-down ICU. On 4th day the patient was transferred to general ward after consulting with psychiatrist and was discharged on the next day with an advice to follow-up every seven days interval. Two weeks later he was found quite normal.

J Enam Med Col 2019; 9(3): 193-196
A 75-Year-Old Male with Multiseptated Cavitary Lung Lesion
Authors: Sarkar Samar C , Amin Mashah Binte
Published: October 2019

Abstract not available

J Enam Med Col 2019; 9(3): 197-199
STRATEGY OF LIBERALIZATION AND PROBLEMS OF STATE REGULATION OF AZERBAIJAN ECONOMY
Authors: Yuzbashieva G. Z. , Mustafayev A. M. , Imanov R. A.
Published: October 2019

The indicators that determine the change in the macroeconomic situation in the economy of Azerbaijan in 2010–2017, as well as the conditions for increasing the effectiveness of state intervention in solving economic problems are analyzed. It is noted that it is not the size of the public sector that becomes important, but its qualitative component (management and redistribution of resources and revenues, coordination of government intervention in economic relations). The main reasons limiting economic growth are identified, and the mechanisms for overcoming them are disclosed, since economic growth is of particular importance in the transformational period of state development. It substantiates the assertion that the forms and methods of state regulation should be the result of a reasonable combination of the private and public sectors of the economy to more effectively achieve the goal of economic development of the country and increase the welfare of the population. To this end, it is advisable to limit the actions of market forces and find a rational ratio of market and government measures that stimulate economic growth and development.It is shown that in the near future the development of the economy of Azerbaijan should be focused on the transition to the integration of various models of economic transformation; at the same time, “attraction of investments” should be carried out by methods of stimulating consumption, and the concept of a socially oriented economy, which the state also implements, should prevail, thereby ensuring social protection of the population and at the same time developing market relations. Disproportions in regional and sectoral development are also noted, which are the result of an ineffective distribution of goods produced, inadequate investment in human capital, a low level of coordination and stimulation of economic growth and development.
THE FUTURE OF STATE IN THE ECONOMY: RUSSIAN DISCUSSIONS AND THEIR INTERNATIONAL CONTEXT
Authors: Kolganov A. I.
Published: October 2019

In this paper the different positions concerning the economic role of state are considering. Three main groups of views which taken place in Russia, are highlighting: liberals, statists and lefts. This analysis is providing on the basis of highlighting by Alexandr Buzgalin three main forms of state from the point of view of its economic functions: statebureaucrat, state-capital and state-society. The contradictory nature of the combination of these forms of state is demonstrating. Although the sides in the discussions, as a rule, don’t identifying themselves with one of these forms, the defense of one of this or that form became the main border between the positions of the sides. In the dependence of this the answer on the question of the nature of state is made. The key disagreements on the main questions of economic development, economic relations and institutions between the participants of discussions on economic functions of state are formulating. As a conclusion the view on the prospects of evolution of state in connection with the formation of the transitory post-market relations and on the interaction of state and society in this process is representing. The role of democratic institutions of civil society in this process is stressed. This attitude is presenting as an alternative to the liberal-conservative and statist trend.
SYSTEMIC CAUSES OF THE APPEARANCE OF “COBRA EFFECT” IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Mokiy M. S. , Borzenko E. K.
Published: October 2019

The article on the basis of extrapolation of system laws of management of social and economic development illustrates the system reason of the Cobra effect, that is, a situation where, despite the rather attractive goals that managers formulate, the result of the activities of subordinates is opposite to what was intended. The main problem of management is the development of a system of indicators, in which, working on the indicator, employees would change the state in the right direction. The reason for the Cobra effect is the manifestation of systemic patterns of socio-economic development. The main system regularity is the desire of the system for stability and self-preservation. This state of the system is achieved using the least energy-consuming way. It is shown that any worker, realizing system regularities, aspires to stability and self-preservation. Therefore, the employee is always forced to work for achieving the indicator. The article analyzes the manifestation of these laws at the level of enterprises and state. When managers understand these patterns explicitly or covertly, changes in the economic system are moving in the right direction. It is shown that the existing system of target indicators used as indicators to assess the effectiveness of management does not meet the goals and objectives of socio-economic development. At the meso- and macrolevel, absolute, volumetric indicators, such as gross national product and others, reduce the range of benefits to the population. The article defines the vector of change in the system of indicators for assessing the effectiveness of management at the regional and state levels, based on the fact that the key element is the family. At the same time, the targets should be indicators to assess the availability of benefits for households.
NETWORK ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURES OF PRODUCTION OF HIGH-TECH PRODUCTS AS A TOOL OF TECHNOLOGICAL BREAKTHROUGH IN RUSSIA
Authors: Abdikeev N. M. , Bogachev Yu. S. , Oktiabrskiy A. M.
Published: October 2019

The paper deals with the problems of reforming the organization of the production of high-tech products in Russia. A comparative analysis of the state and significance of these industries in the economies of developed countries and Russia shows the need for reforming the structural organization of production. On the example of the aviation industry, an analysis of the improvement of industrial production was carried out. Evaluation of the effectiveness of relevant measures shows that they contribute to the conservation of closed obsolete business-production models, monopolization of the final integrator in accessing and using investments, low labor productivity and outflow of personnel, lack of effective interaction of the scientific and technological sector with domestic academic university science. This impedes the formation of the competencies necessary to carry out a technological breakthrough and increase the competitiveness of the industry in the global market.The paper presents a model of vertical integration of the technological chain of value added reproduction in the form of network organizational structures of suppliers of modules, units and nodes of the final complex technology based on domestic manufacturers. The paper discusses the benefits of the heliocentric organization of the production of the final complex technology, the cluster organization of the supply of intermediate products (modules, units, nodes). It is shown that the separation of the functions of the final integrator contributes to the distribution of risks along the DVCS. At the same time, the attention of the final integrator is concentrated on the development of the final complex products, the organization of the supplier system and after-sales service. The cluster organization of intermediate production opens up the possibility of its diversification and direct access to investment flows, which stimulates the development of production. The authors have developed mechanisms for ensuring the competence of manufacturers to their functional purposes in the central air traffic control system and the organization of a network management system.
Customer Satisfaction with Online Group-Buying Services
Authors: Vu Huy Thong , Tran Mai Trang
Published: October 2019

Given the essential role of customers to the success of any business, particularly newly-established ones, it is crucial for Hanoi’s online group-buying (OGB) companies to make constant efforts to keep their customers satisfied. This research aims at investigating customer satisfaction in the context of Hanoi’s OGB through both quantitative and qualitative methods including an online customer survey with 150 OGB customers, in-depth interviews with 20 customers, and participant observation of five OGB websites. The research results show that the key factors affecting OGB customer satisfaction include product price, merchandise variety, information quality, product quality, and delivery. Also, despite the high likelihood of customers’ repurchasing and recommending to others, Hanoi’s OGB business has not yet met customer satisfaction, particularly in terms of the information quality, supplier’s reputation, product quality and delivery. The root causes of this situation include the incomplete legal framework and ineffective management at macro-level; the poor quality management and business ethics of OGB companies; and the limited OGB customers’ awareness of their rights and responsibilities.
Compliance of Leather Tanning Industry with Environmental Regulations in Vietnam
Authors: Le Ha Thanh , Dinh Duc Truong
Published: October 2019

Vietnam’s rapidly increasing leather and footwear export trade has made a significant contribution to the country’s economic development over recent years. However, the rapid growth of the leather industry causes considerable pollution, which poses increased risks to the environment and human health. A number of policies have been introduced by the government of Vietnam to mitigate the environmental pollution from the tanning industry. They include requirements for tanneries to (i) submit environmental impact assessment reports, (ii) install wastewater treatment systems, and (iii) pay wastewater fees. However, many tanneries in Vietnam did not comply with these regulations. This study aimed at investigating the compliance of Vietnam’s tanneries with environmental regulations and to explore policy recommendations for improving their compliance based on a survey of 54 tanneries in Hanoi, Quangnam and Hochiminh city. The results showed that medium-sized and large tanneries responded positively to environmental regulations while none of the small household tanneries surveyed were found to comply. The main reasons for the latter’s non-compliance were found to be the lack of technical and financial capacity. Nonetheless, the compliance rate of tanneries in general was found to be much higher than that of other industrial sectors in Vietnam. Inspections, production capacity, location of firms, and type of tannery were found to be significant factors affecting compliance. Raising the penalties for non-compliance, increasing monitoring activities to detect offenders, and employing a multi-stakeholder and collective action approach were seen as possible strategies to bring about the greening of the tanning industry.
Underwater Glider Motion Control Based on Neural Network
Authors: LYU Kedong
Published: October 2019

Underwater glider is an important equipment for ocean research, water quality detection and otherocean missions. It needs very high precision requirements to meet underwater glider motion control.When the position of buoyancy system changes, the balance parameters will change significantly. Thispaper presents a method for calculating the balance parameters of underwater glider based on neuralnetwork. In order to verify the effectiveness of the neural network control, the South China Seaexperiment was carried out. By comparing the analysis results with the actual situation, theexperiment shows that the neural network model is feasible.
A Traceable High-Accuracy Velocity Measurement by Electro-Optic Dual-Comb Interferometry
Authors: Xue Bin , Zhang Haoyun , Zhao Tuo , Jing Haoming
Published: October 2019

An electro-optic dual-comb Doppler velocimeter for high-accuracy velocity measurement is presented in this paper. The velocity information of the object can be accurately extracted from the change of repetition frequency, which is in the microwave frequency domain and can be locked to an atomic clock. We generate two optical combs by electro-optic phase modulators and trace their repetition frequencies to the rubidium clock. One functions as the measurement laser and the other the reference. Experimentally, we verify its high accuracy in the range of 100–300 mm/s with a maximum deviation of 0.44 mm/s. The proposed velocimeter combines the merits of high accuracy and wide range. In addition, since the repetition frequency used for the measurement is traceable to the rubidium clock, its potential superiority in traceability can be utilized in velocity metrology.
Efficient Real-Time R and QRS Detection Method Using a Pair of Derivative Filters and Max Filter for Portable ECG Device
Authors: Bae Tae Wuk , Kwon Kee Koo
Published: October 2019

Recently, with the active development of wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) devices such as smart-bands or portable ECG devices, efficient ECG signal processing technology that can be applied in real-time has been actively studied. However, a wearable ECG device is exposed to various noise situations, thereby reducing the reliability of the detected R point or QRS interval. In addition, as early warning techniques in healthcare systems have been studied, real-time ECG signal processing techniques have become very important in wearable ECG devices. In this paper, we propose an efficient real-time R and QRS detection method using two kinds of first-order derivative filters and a max filter to analyze ECG signals measured from wearable ECG devices in real-time. The proposed method detects the R point and QRS interval in units of a sliding window for real-time processing and combines the detected R points in each sliding window. Also, the reliability of the detected R points and RR intervals is examined through noise region analysis using the histogram characteristic of a sample point. The performance of the proposed method was verified by the MIT-BIH database (DB), CYBHi DB and real ECG data measured from the developed wearable ECG patch. The proposed method achieves Se = 99.80%, +P = 99.80%, and DER = 0.36% against MIT-BIH DB. In addition, the proposed method enables accurate R point detection and heart rate variability (HRV) analysis even with noisy ECG signals.
On the Emission Properties of Carbon Dots: Reviewing Data and Discussing Models
Authors: Carbonaro Carlo Maria , Corpino Riccardo , Salis Marcello , Mocci Francesca , Thakkar Swapneel Vijay , Olla Chiara , Ricci Pier Carlo
Published: October 2019

The emission properties of carbon dots (CDs) have already found many potential applications, from bio-imaging and cell labelling, to optical imaging and drug delivery, and are largely investigated in technological fields, such as lighting and photonics. Besides their high efficiency emission, CDs are also virtually nontoxic and can be prepared through many green chemistry routes. Despite these important features, the very origin of their luminescence is still debated. In this paper, we present an overview of sounding data and the main models proposed to explain the emission properties of CDs and their tunability.
Four Different Carotid Atherosclerotic Behaviors Based on Luminal Stenosis and Plaque Characteristics in Symptomatic Patients: An in Vivo Study
Authors: Watase Hiroko , Canton Gador , Sun Jie , Zhao Xihai , Hatsukami Thomas S. , Yuan Chun
Published: October 2019

Correct stratification of ischemic stroke risk allows for the proper treatment of carotid atherosclerotic disease. We seek to differentiate plaque types based on stenosis level and plaque morphology. The Chinese Atherosclerosis Risk Evaluation (CARE–II) study is a cross-sectional, observational, multicenter study to assess carotid atherosclerotic plaques in symptomatic subjects using vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging. Plaque morphology and presence of plaque components were reviewed using multi-contrast magnetic resonance imaging. The carotid arteries were divided into four groups based on stenosis level and plaque components. Out of 1072 ischemic stroke subjects, 452 ipsilateral side carotid arteries were included. Significant stenosis (SS) (≥50% stenosis) with high-risk plaque (HRP) features was present in 37 arteries (8.2%), SS(+)/HRP(−) in 29 arteries (6.4%), SS(−)/HRP(+) in 57 arteries (12.6%), and SS(−)/HRP(−) in 329 arteries (72.8%). The prevalence of SS(−)/HRP(+) arteries in this cohort was substantial and had greater wall thickness than the SS(+)/HRP(−) group. These arteries may be misclassified for carotid revascularization by current guidelines based on the degree of luminal stenosis only. These findings have implications for further studies to assess stroke risk using vessel wall imaging.
Integrating GWAS and Gene Expression Analysis Identifies Candidate Genes for Root Morphology Traits in Maize at the Seedling Stage
Authors: Wang Houmiao , Wei Jie , Li Pengcheng , Wang Yunyun , Ge Zhenzhen , Qian Jiayi , Fan Yingying , Ni Jinran , Xu Yang , Yang Zefeng , Xu Chenwu
Published: October 2019

Root system plays an essential role in water and nutrient acquisition in plants. Understanding the genetic basis of root development will be beneficial for breeding new cultivars with efficient root system to enhance resource use efficiency in maize. Here, the natural variation of 13 root and 3 shoot traits was evaluated in 297 maize inbred lines and genome-wide association mapping was conducted to identify SNPs associated with target traits. All measured traits exhibited 2.02- to 21.36-fold variations. A total of 34 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were detected for 13 traits, and each individual QTL explained 5.7% to 15.9% of the phenotypic variance. Three pleiotropic QTLs involving five root traits were identified; SNP_2_104416607 was associated with lateral root length (LRL), root surface area (RA), root length between 0 and 0.5mm in diameter (RL005), and total root length (TRL); SNP_2_184016997 was associated with RV and RA, and SNP_4_168917747 was associated with LRL, RA and TRL. The expression levels of candidate genes in root QTLs were evaluated by RNA-seq among three long-root lines and three short-root lines. A total of five genes that showed differential expression between the long- and short-root lines were identified as promising candidate genes for the target traits. These QTLs and the potential candidate genes are important source data to understand root development and genetic improvement of root traits in maize.
Seismic Vulnerability and Old Towns. A Cost-Based Programming Model
Authors: Giuffrida Salvatore , Trovato Maria Rosa , Circo Chiara , Ventura Vittoria , Giuffrè Margherita , Macca Valentina
Published: October 2019

Vulnerability is a big issue for small inland urban centres, which are exposed to the risk of depopulation. In the climate of the centre-northern part of Italy, and in the context of the recent concentration of a high number of earthquakes in that area, seismic vulnerability can become the determinant cause of the final abandonment of a small town. In some Italian regions, as well as in Emilia Romagna, municipalities are implementing seismic vulnerability reduction policies based on the Emergency Limit Condition, which has become a basic point of reference for ordinary land planning. This study proposes an approach to seismic vulnerability reduction based on valuation planning for implementation within the general planning framework of the Faentina Union, a group of five small towns located in the southwestern part of the Province of Ravenna, Italy. This approach consists of three main stages: knowledge—the typological, constructive, and technological descriptions of the buildings, specifically concerning their degree of vulnerability; interpretation—analysis with the aim of outlining a range of hypotheses with respect to damage in case of a prospective earthquake; and planning—the identification of the courses of action intended to meaningfully reduce the vulnerability of buildings. This stage includes a cost modelling tool aimed at defining the trade-off between the extension and the intensity of the vulnerability reduction works, given the budget.
A Horticultural Medium Established from the Rapid Removal of Phytotoxins from Winery Grape Marc
Authors: Olejar Kenneth J. , Vandermeer Charlotte , Fedrizzi Bruno , Kilmartin Paul A.
Published: October 2019

Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) marc has long been utilized as a compost feedstock. However, this process takes an extended period of time due to the phytotoxic chemical composition of the marc. Removal of these compounds presents an opportunity to utilize the grape marc as a growing medium. Following a water-based extraction procedure to remove polyphenolic compounds of interest, analysis of the depleted marc showed a decrease in the content of these compounds, and in nutrient and trace element levels. Carrot (Daucus carota L.) and corn (Zea mays L.) seedling emergence in the depleted marc and blends with compost were not adversely affected, demonstrating its effectiveness for growing plants at all ratios. A 50:50 blend of compost and depleted grape marc resulted in plant growth equivalent to the compost alone. This combined with the observed water holding capacity suggests that depleted grape marc, when blended with compost, can be a suitable alternative to peat or coconut coir for seedlings.
PSMA-Targeting Positron Emission Agents for Imaging Solid Tumors Other Than Non-Prostate Carcinoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Van de Wiele Christophe , Sathekge Mike , de Spiegeleer Bart , de Jonghe Pieter , Beels Laurence , Maes Alex
Published: October 2019

Despite its name, prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) has been shown using immunohistochemistry (IHC) to also be over-expressed in the tumor neovasculature of a wide variety of solid tumors other than prostate carcinoma. Accordingly, positron-emitting radiolabeled small molecules targeting PSMA, initially developed for positron emission tomography in prostate carcinomas, are currently being explored for their staging and restaging potential as an alternative imaging modality in other solid tumor types where 18-F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-PET imaging has low diagnostic accuracy. In this paper, the currently available literature in this field is reviewed. Preliminary, mainly retrospective studies are encouraging, with evidence of improved diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in clear cell renal carcinoma, glioma, and hepatocellular carcinoma, leading to a change in patient management in several patients. However, the results published thus far warrant confirmation by larger prospective studies additionally assessing the longitudinal impact on patient outcomes.
Impact of Sacubitril/Valsartan on the Long-Term Incidence of Ventricular Arrhythmias in Chronic Heart Failure Patients
Authors: El-Battrawy Ibrahim , Pilsinger Christina , Liebe Volker , Lang Siegfried , Kuschyk Jürgen , Zhou Xiaobo , Borggrefe Martin , Röger Susanne , Akin Ibrahim
Published: October 2019

Background: Sacubitril/valsartan decreased the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients suffering from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, long-term data are sparse. Objective: The aim of the present study was to compare the incidence of life-threatening arrhythmias consisting of ventricular tachycardia and/or ventricular fibrillation before and after initiation of sacubitril/valsartan treatment. Methods: Out of 12,000 patients with HFrEF from 2016–2018, 148 patients were newly prescribed sacubitril/valsartan, but the long-term data of only 127 patients were available and included in this study. Results: Patients with an average age of 66.8 ± 12.1 had a median left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 25% (interquartile range (IQR) 5.00–45.00) and 30% (IQR 10.00–55.00, p < 0.0005) before and after sacubitril/valsartan treatment, respectively. Systolic blood pressure decreased from 127.93 ± 22.01 to 118.36 ± 20.55 mmHg (p = 0.0035) at 6 months of follow-up. However, in 59 patients with a long-term outcome of 12 months, ventricular arrhythmias persistently increased (ventricular fibrillation from 27.6 to 29.3%, ventricular tachycardia (VT) from 12% to 13.8%, and nonsustained VT from 26.6 to 33.3%). Conclusions: Sacubitril/valsartan does not reduce the risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmias in chronic HFrEF patients over 12 months of follow-up.
Proteomic Analysis of Longitudinal Changes in Blood Pressure
Authors: Lin Yi-Ting , Fall Tove , Hammar Ulf , Gustafsson Stefan , Ingelsson Erik , Ärnlöv Johan , Lind Lars , Engström Gunnar , Sundström Johan
Published: October 2019

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for premature death worldwide. The identification of modifiable causes of hypertension remains an imperative task. We aimed to investigate associations between 79 proteins implicated in cardiovascular disease and longitudinal blood pressure (BP) changes in three Swedish prospective cohorts. In a discovery phase, we investigated associations between baseline circulating protein levels assessed with a proximity extension assay and BP stage progression at follow-up 5 years later among persons without BP-lowering drugs at baseline in two independent community-based cohorts from the Prospective Investigation of the Vasculature in Uppsala Seniors study (PIVUS) and the Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men (ULSAM). We used an independent cohort, the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study (MDC), for replication. The primary outcome of BP stage progression was defined as per the 2017 AHA/ACC (American Heart Association/ American College of Cardiology) Guideline BP categories. We also investigated associations of protein levels with changes in BP on a continuous scale, and meta-analyzed all three cohorts. Levels of renin were associated with BP stage progression with a 5% false discovery rate (FDR) in the ULSAM (n = 238) and PIVUS (n = 566) cohorts, but we could not replicate this association in the MDC cohort (n = 2659). The association in the discovery cohorts was modest, with an odds ratio for BP stage progression over 5 years of 1.33 (95% confidence interval 1.14 to 1.56) per standard deviation of baseline renin. In conclusion, we could not find any novel robust associations with longitudinal BP increase in a proximity extension assay-based proteomics investigation in three cohorts.
Interaction between Fexofenadine and CYP Phenotyping Probe Drugs in Geneva Cocktail
Authors: Bosilkovska Marija , Magliocco Gaelle , Desmeules Jules , Samer Caroline , Daali Youssef
Published: October 2019

Drug metabolic enzymes and transporters are responsible for an important variability in drug disposition. The cocktail approach is a sound strategy for the simultaneous evaluation of several enzyme and transporter activities for a personalized dosage of medications. Recently, we have demonstrated the reliability of the Geneva cocktail, combining the use of dried blood spots (DBS) and reduced dose of phenotyping drugs for the evaluation of the activity of six cytochromes and P-glycoprotein (P-gp). As part of a study evaluating potential drug–drug interactions between probe drugs of the Geneva cocktail, the present paper focuses on the impact of cytochromes (CYP) probe drugs on the disposition of fexofenadine, a P-gp test drug. In a randomized four-way Latin-square crossover study, 30 healthy volunteers (15 men and 15 women) received caffeine 50 mg, bupropion 20 mg, flurbiprofen 10 mg, omeprazole 10 mg, dextromethorphan 10 mg, midazolam 1 mg, and fexofenadine 25 mg alone (or as part of a previously validated combination) and all together (Geneva cocktail). The determination of drug concentrations was performed in DBS samples and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. Fexofenadine AUC0–8 h and Cmax decreased by 43% (geometric mean ratio: 0.57; CI 90: 0.50–0.65; p < 0.001) and 49% (geometric mean ratio: 0.51; CI 90: 0.44–0.59; p < 0.001), respectively, when fexofenadine was administered as part of the Geneva cocktail in comparison to fexofenadine alone. Consequently, the apparent oral clearance (Cl/F) increased 1.7-fold (CI 90: 1.49–1.93; p < 0.001). There was no interaction between the remaining probes. In conclusion, an unexpected interaction occurred between fexofenadine and one or several of the following substances: caffeine, bupropion, flurbiprofen, omeprazole, dextromethorphan, and midazolam. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the mechanism of this interaction.
Convergence Theorem of Two Sequences for Solving the Modified Generalized System of Variational Inequalities and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Sripattanet Anchalee , Kangtunyakarn Atid
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this paper is to introduce an iterative algorithm of two sequences which depend on each other by using the intermixed method. Then, we prove a strong convergence theorem for solving fixed-point problems of nonlinear mappings and we treat two variational inequality problems which form an approximate modified generalized system of variational inequalities (MGSV). By using our main theorem, we obtain the additional results involving the split feasibility problem and the constrained convex minimization problem. In support of our main result, a numerical example is also presented.
Comparative Study of Aryl O-, C-, and S-Mannopyranosides as Potential Adhesion Inhibitors toward Uropathogenic E. coli FimH
Authors: Mousavifar Leila , Vergoten Gérard , Charron Guillaume , Roy René
Published: October 2019

A set of three mannopyranoside possessing identical 1,1′-biphenyl glycosidic pharmacophore but different aglyconic atoms were synthesized using either a palladium-catalyzed Heck cross coupling reaction or a metathesis reaction between their corresponding allylic glycoside derivatives. Their X-ray structures, together with their calculated 3D structures, showed strong indicators to explain the observed relative binding abilities against E. coli FimH as measured by a improved surface plasmon resonance (SPR) method. Amongst the O-, C-, and S-linked analogs, the C-linked analog showed the best ability to become a lead candidate as antagonist against uropathogenic E. coli with a Kd of 11.45 nM.
The Association between Early Childhood and Later Childhood Sugar-Containing Beverage Intake: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ziesmann Andrea , Kiflen Ruhi , De Rubeis Vanessa , Smith Brendan , Maguire Jonathon , Birken Catherine , Anderson Laura
Published: October 2019

Sugar-containing beverages (SCBs) are a major source of sugar intake in children. Early life intake of SCBs may be a strong predictor of SCB intake later in life. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate if SCB intake (defined as 100% fruit juice, soda, and sweetened drinks) in early childhood (≤2.5 years of age) was associated with SCB intake in later childhood (5–9 years of age). A prospective cohort study was conducted using data from the TARGet Kids! primary care practice network (n = 999). Typical daily SCB intake was measured by parent-completed questionnaires. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using logistic regression. A total of 43% of children consumed ≥0.5 cups/day of SCBs at ≤2.5 years and this increased to 64% by 5–9 years. Daily SCB intake, compared to no daily intake, at ≤2.5 years was significantly associated with SCB intake at 5–9 years (adjusted OR: 4.03; 95% CI: 2.92–5.55) and this association was much stronger for soda/sweetened drinks (adjusted OR: 12.83; 95% CI: 4.98, 33.0) than 100% fruit juice (OR: 3.61; 95% CI: 2.63–4.95). Other early life risk factors for SCB intake at 5–9 years were presence of older siblings, low household income, and shorter breastfeeding duration. Daily intake of SCBs in early childhood was strongly associated with greater SCB intake in later childhood. Early life may be an important period to target for population prevention strategies.
In Vivo Methods to Study Protein–Protein Interactions as Key Players in Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Virulence
Authors: Veyron-Churlet Romain , Locht Camille
Published: October 2019

Studies on protein–protein interactions (PPI) can be helpful for the annotation of unknown protein functions and for the understanding of cellular processes, such as specific virulence mechanisms developed by bacterial pathogens. In that context, several methods have been extensively used in recent years for the characterization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis PPI to further decipher tuberculosis (TB) pathogenesis. This review aims at compiling the most striking results based on in vivo methods (yeast and bacterial two-hybrid systems, protein complementation assays) for the specific study of PPI in mycobacteria. Moreover, newly developed methods, such as in-cell native mass resonance and proximity-dependent biotinylation identification, will have a deep impact on future mycobacterial research, as they are able to perform dynamic (transient interactions) and integrative (multiprotein complexes) analyses.
Applications of TQM Processes to Increase the Management Performance of Enterprises in the Romanian Renewable Energy Sector
Authors: Busu Mihail
Published: October 2019

This paper focuses on total quality management (TQM) processes and their applications to increase the management performance of enterprises in the renewable energy sector (RES). TQM is a modern tool used by enterprises to increase their management performance. We start with a description of Edwards Deming’s conceptualized model, highlighting different phases of its development as described in the literature. The TQM process is then used for an application to the RES in Romania. The quantitative model analyzes the influence of TQM process implementation in achieving competitive advantage and the management performance of the undertakings in the RES. Data was collected through a survey based on a questionnaire addressed to employees and managers in the RES. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used and the research hypotheses were tested with the partial least squares path method (PLS). Data analysis was performed with the statistical software SmartPLS 3.2.8. The main contribution of this article is to evaluate the relationship between the management performance of enterprises in the RES sector in Romania and TQM process indicators. The results underline the fact that the most important attributes of a TQM process to increase the management performance are: integrated operational processes, policies and trading strategies, integrated operational management, company social responsibility, motivated workforce, knowledge, and competencies. The conclusions of the research are in line with the latest findings in the area, underlining that management performance is the direct result of the association between a group of factors and processes, such as the integrated operational processes, trade strategies and policies, integrated operational management, corporate social responsibility (CSR), motivated workforce, knowledge, and competencies.
Automatic Detection of Spatiotemporal Urban Expansion Patterns by Fusing OSM and Landsat Data in Kathmandu
Authors: Khanal Nishanta , Uddin Kabir , Matin Mir , Tenneson Karis
Published: October 2019

During the last few decades, a large number of people have migrated to Kathmandu city from all parts of Nepal, resulting in rapid expansion of the city. The unplanned and accelerated growth is causing many environmental and population management issues. To manage urban growth efficiently, the city authorities need a means to be able to monitor urban expansion regularly. In this study, we introduced a novel approach to automatically detect urban expansion by leveraging state-of-the-art cloud computing technologies using the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. We proposed a new index named Normalized Difference and Distance Built-up Index (NDDBI) for identifying built-up areas by combining the LandSat-derived vegetation index with distances from the nearest roads and buildings analysed from OpenStreetMap (OSM). We also focused on logical consistencies of land-cover change to remove unreasonable transitions supported by the repeat photography. Our analysis of the historical urban growth patterns between 2000 and 2018 shows that the settlement areas were increased from 63.68 sq km in 2000 to 148.53 sq km in 2018. The overall accuracy of mapping the newly-built areas of urban expansion was 94.33%. We have demonstrated that the methodology and data generated in the study can be replicated to easily map built-up areas and support quicker and more efficient land management and land-use planning in rapidly growing cities worldwide.