bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective Study on Effectiveness of Activ L Total Disc Replacement
Authors: Sun Wenzhi , Wang Peng , Hu Hailiang , Kong Chao , Hai Yong , Lu Shibao
Published: August 2020

Background: The effectiveness of lumbar total disc replacement (TDR) with different prostheses for sagittal alignment has been reported previously. However, there are only few reports on Activ L TDR and no specific evidence regarding whether sagittal alignment affects the clinical outcomes.Methods: Thirty-six patients who underwent mono- or bi-segmental lumbar TDR with ActivL were studied. The films of upright anteroposterior and lateral spine in neutral, flexion, and extension positions were obtained before surgery and at 1 month, 1 and 3 years after surgery. The radiographic parameters such as lumbar lordosis (LL), index level lordosis (IL), segmental lordosis (SL) and sacral tilt (ST) were measured based on the lateral upright radiographs. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and visual analogue scale (VAS) pre- and post-operatively. Results: 87 patients with complete radiographic data were available for a 3-year follow-up period. Of these, 66 received a single-level TDR, and 21 received 2-level TDR. At 1 month, the mean LL was similar to the pre-operative data, and then was significantly increased to 45.1° at 3 years. On an average, the IL tended to significantly increase, while the mean SL at L4-5 was increased from 16.5° pre-operatively to 21.0° at 3 years. The mean SL at L1-2, L2-3, L3-4, and L5-S1 and the ST showed no obvious difference after 3 years. In contrast, VAS and ODI scores showed significant improvement after surgery. Conclusions: Activ L TDR showed favorable affect on sagittal alignment, enhancing the IL while preserving the LL and ST. However, satisfactory clinical results for over a 3-year follow-up were not affected by sagittal alignment.
Phase I Trial of Dose-Escalated Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) Boost for Unfavorable Locally Advanced Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Vempati Prashant , Halthore Aditya N. , Teckie Sewit , Rana Zaker , Gogineni Emile , Antone Jeffrey , Zhang Honglai , Marrero Mihaela , Beadle Kristin , Frank Douglas K. , Aziz Mohamed , Paul Doru , Ghaly Maged M.
Published: August 2020

Background and Purpose: Patients with locally advanced oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma have suboptimal outcomes with standard chemoradiation. Here, we evaluated toxicity and oncologic outcomes of dose escalation using radiosurgical boost for patients with unfavorable oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma. Materials and Methods: Between 2010-2017, Thirty four patients with intermediate- or high-risk oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma were enrolled onto this prospective phase I trial. Each patient received concurrent cisplatin and fractionated radiotherapy totaling 60 Gy or 66 Gy followed by radiosurgery boost to areas of residual gross tumor: single fraction of 8 Gy or 10 Gy, or two fractions of 5 Gy each. Primary endpoint was treatment toxicity. Secondary endpoints were local, regional, and distant disease control.Results: Eleven, sixteen and seven patients received radiosurgery boost with 8 Gy in 1 fraction, 10 Gy in 1 fraction, and 10 Gy in 2 fractions respectively. Acute toxicities include 4 patients with tumor necrosis causing grade 3 dysphagia, of which 3 developed grade 4 pharyngeal hemorrhage requiring surgical intervention. At 24 months after treatment, 7%, 9%, and 15% had grade 2 dysgeusia, xerostomia, and dysphagia, respectively, and two patients remained feeding tube dependent. No grade 5 toxicities occurred secondary to treatment. Local, regional, and distant control at a median follow up of 4.2 years were 85.3%, 85.3% and 88.2%, respectively. Five patients died resulting in overall survival of 85.3%. Conclusions: This study is the first to report the use of radiosurgery boost dose escalation in patients with unfavorable oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma. Longer follow-up, larger cohorts, and further refinement of boost methodology are needed prior to implementation in routine clinical practice.Trial Registration: Northwell Health Protocol #09-309A (NCT02703493) (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02703493)
Evaluation of a Novel Shallow Aggregate Ebb-and-flood Culture System and Transplant Size Effects on Hydroponic Basil Yield
Authors: Doty Samuel , Dickson Ryan W. , Evans Michael
Published: August 2020

Ornamental bedding plant operations transitioning to leafy greens and herb production must decide whether to invest in new hydroponic equipment or modify existing culture systems for edible crops. In addition, common practices used to increase space-use and production efficiencies during bedding plant production may be modified for hydroponic leafy greens and herbs, such as purchasing large seedlings for transplant. The objective of the first experiment was to evaluate plant growth in a modified and novel shallow aggregate ebb-and-flood (SAEF) system intended for bedding plant growers with an emphasis on comparing yield across four basil (Ocimum basilicum) cultivars grown in the SAEF system to those grown using the traditional nutrient film technique (NFT) and deep water culture (DWC) hydroponic systems. The second experiment objective was to evaluate basil seedling size and the time of transplant to NFT hydroponic systems to determine effects on the final yield. ‘Genovese’ basil seedlings were grown in trays with cell counts of 32, 50, 72, 105, and 162 cells with corresponding root volumes per plant of 98.1, 50.2, 38.5, 19.6, and 16.3 cm3, respectively. Seedlings were transplanted to NFT systems at 14, 21, and 28 days after sowing and were harvested at 35 days. In the first experiment, overall basil shoot fresh and dry weights per plant were intermediate in the SAEF system (90.4 and 8.3 g) compared with the DWC (102.6 and 9.1 g) and NFT (75.8 and 6.6 g) hydroponic systems. In the second experiment, final shoot fresh and dry weight per plant increased as seedling root volume increased from 16.3 cm3 [72.8 and 5.5 g (162-cell tray)] to 98.1 cm3 [148.5 and 12.2 g (32-cell tray)]. Transplanting seedlings at later dates decreased yield across tray size and root volume treatments. Differences in yield between culture systems may have resulted from differences in nutrient supply and availability for plant uptake. Transplant of large seedling plugs to hydroponic culture was not shown to increase space-use efficiency after transplant without compromising yield, likely because root zone factors limited growth during seedling production. Further investigation into maximizing plant growth during seedling production and evaluating the effects of seedling size and transplant practices are needed to determine the potential for increasing space-use and production efficiencies.
Constraints on deep, CO2-rich degassing at arc volcanoes from solubility experiments on hydrous basaltic andesite of Pavlof Volcano, Alaska Peninsula, at 300 to 1200 MPa
Authors: Mangan Margaret T. , Sisson Thomas W. , Hankins W. Ben , Shimizu Nobumichi , Vennemann Torsten
Published: August 2020

The solubility of CO2 in hydrous basaltic andesite was examined in fO2-controlled experiments at a temperature of 1125 °C and pressures between 310–1200 MPa. Concentrations of dissolved H2O and CO2 in experimental glasses were determined by ion microprobe calibrated on a subset of run glasses analyzed by high-temperature vacuum manometry. Assuming that the solubility of H2O in mafic melt is relatively well known, estimates of XH2Ofluid and PH2Ofluid in the saturating fluid were modeled, and by difference, values for XCO2fluid and PCO2fluid were obtained (XCO2 ~0.5–0.9); fCO2 could be then calculated from the fluid composition, temperature, and pressure.

Dissolved H2O over a range of 2.3–5.5 wt% had no unequivocal influence on the dissolution of CO2 at the pressures and fluid compositions examined. For these H2O concentrations, dissolved CO2 increases with fCO2 following an empirical power-law relation: dissolved CO2 (ppmw) = 14.9−3.5+4.5[fCO2 (MPa)]0.7±0.03. The highest-pressure results plot farthest from this equation but are within its 1 standard-error uncertainty envelope.

We compare our experimental data with three recent CO2-H2O solubility models: Papale et al. (2006); Iacono-Marziano et al. (2012); and Ghiorso and Gualda (2015). The Papale et al. (2006) and Iacono-Marizano et al. (2012) models give similar results, both over-predicting the solubility of CO2 in a melt of the Pavlof basaltic andesite composition across the fCO2 range, whereas the Ghiorso and Gualda (2015) model under-predicts CO2 solubility. All three solubility models would indicate a strong enhancement of CO2 solubility with increasing dissolved H2O not apparent in our results. We also examine our results in the context of previous high-pressure CO2 solubility experiments on basaltic melts. Dissolved CO2 correlates positively with mole fraction (Na+K+Ca)/Al across a compositional spectrum of trachybasalt-alkali basalt-tholeiite-icelandite-basaltic andesite. Shortcomings of current solubility models for a widespread arc magma type indicate that our understanding of degassing in the deep crust and uppermost mantle remains semi-quantitative. Experimental studies systematically varying concentrations of melt components (Mg, Ca, Na, K, Al, Si) may be necessary to identify solubility reactions, quantify their equilibrium constants, and thereby build an accurate and generally applicable solubility model.
An evolutionary system of mineralogy, Part IV: Planetesimal differentiation and impact mineralization (4566 to 4560 Ma)
Authors: Morrison Shaunna M. , Hazen Robert M.
Published: August 2020

The fourth installment of the evolutionary system of mineralogy considers two stages of planetesimal mineralogy that occurred early in the history of the solar nebula, commencing by 4.566 Ga and lasting for at least 5 million years: (1) primary igneous minerals derived from planetesimal melting and differentiation into core, mantle, and basaltic components and (2) impact mineralization resulting in shock-induced deformation, brecciation, melting, and high-pressure phase transformations.

We tabulate 90 igneous differentiated asteroidal minerals, including the earliest known occurrences of minerals with Ba, Cl, Cu, F, and V as essential elements, as well as the first appearances of numerous phosphates, quartz, zircon, and amphibole group minerals. We also record 40 minerals formed through high-pressure impact alteration, commencing with the period of asteroid accretion and differentiation. These stages of mineral evolution thus mark the first time that high pressures, both static and dynamic, played a significant role in mineral paragenesis.
Incorporation mechanism of tungsten in W-Fe-Cr-V-bearing rutile
Authors: Majzlan Juraj , Bolanz Ralph , Göttlicher Jörg , Mikuš Tomáš , Milovská Stanislava , Čaplovičová Mária , Števko Martin , Rössler Christiane , Matthes Christian
Published: August 2020

Rutile is a common mineral in many types of ore deposits and can carry chemical or isotopic information about the ore formation. For closer understanding of this information, the mechanisms of incorporation of minor elements should be known. In this work, we have investigated natural rutile crystals with elevated concentrations of WO3 (up to 17.7 wt%), Cr2O3,tot (7.5), V2O3,tot (4.1), FeOtot (7.3), and other metals. X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) of rutile at the Fe K, Cr K, V K, and W L1 and L3 edges shows that all cations are coordinated octahedrally. The average oxidation state of V is +3.8, and that of Cr is near +4. Shell-by-shell fitting of the W L3 EXAFS data shows that W resides in the rutile structure. Raman spectroscopy excludes the possibility of hydrogen as a charge-compensating species. High-resolution TEM and electron diffraction confirm this conclusion as the entire inspected area consists of rutile single crystal with variable amounts of metals other than Ti. Our results show that rutile or its precursors can be efficient vehicles for tungsten in sedimentary rocks, leading to their enrichment in W and possibly later fertility with respect to igneous ore deposits. Leucoxene, a nanocrystalline mixture of Ti and Fe oxides, is an especially suitable candidate for such a vehicle.
Resistance in the New Harem Era: Gendered Violence and the Power of Media in the Time of Covid-19 in Morocco
Authors: El Ouedrhiri Sara , El Mesbahi Hafsa
Published: August 2020

In a time of great uncertainties, the world witnesses, for the very first instance in its modern history a global lockdown spanning over all the vital spheres of economic and social life. At this point, when neither leaving home nor staying is an option, the surge to exponentially study the manner in which human life has evolved and been shaped under such circumstances gained valuable interest, especially within the circles of feminist and human rights-based academia. Respectively, researchers argue that the weight of the lockdown and movement restriction policies fall discriminately on men and women as they are interestingly leading such novel experiences in different ways. Men, by having no concern mounting to the priority of protecting themselves from being inflicted by this global pandemic and maintaining their economic roles as the traditional family providers, and women on the margin side of the picture, having to deal with the burden of surviving the dangers that the outside and the inside worlds akin dispose. Henceforth, this article is an attempt to probe the dynamics of the private sphere considering the intersections between oppression, seclusion and violence and the development of new dynamics of resistance by transposing from the early 20th century’s feminine experience of confinement and the 21st century’s global lockdown in the time of the Covid-19 pandemic. This research considers the stories presented by the renowned Moroccan sociologist and author “Fatima Mernissi”, who herself lived a different kind of seclusion behind the colossal and skillfully ostentatious walls of the harem of the city of Fez in the forties of the previous century and this shall be done mainly by reviewing the stories of resistance presented in her memoir Dreams of Trespass: Tales of a Harem Girlhood; and by considering the stories of five respondents who have shared with us their accounts through various social media outlets upon the surge of the pandemic in Morocco. The purpose here is to unravel the convergences between women’s experiences of gender-based violence (GBV) in both confinements and to foreground the value, significance and challenges these feminine insights being in them simple acts of everyday life constitute in establishing a discourse of resistance and feminine empowerment vis-à-vis patriarchy, seclusion and gender-based violence.
Desdobramentos da Teoria do Capital Humano
Authors: Da Silva Élido Santiago , Da Silva Gilmar Pereira
Published: August 2020

O presente texto tem por objetivo compreender as noções de empreendedorismo e empregabilidade como desdobramentos da Teoria do Capital humano. Para tal intento, analisou-se as falas de entrevistas com 12 jovens concluintes do ensino médio integrado à educação profissional do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Piauí (IFPI) – Campus Parnaíba. Como resultado, percebeu-se que as noções de empreendedorismo e empregabilidade constituem o vocabulário dos alunos pesquisados. As manifestações se dão com a reprodução de elementos que reforçam o investimento individual como sendo processo de diferenciação positiva às exigências do mercado. Com efeito, tal reprodução colabora com o processo de fragmentação da identidade dos jovens da classe trabalhadora. Por outro lado, percebeu-se a negação dessas noções derivadas da Teoria do Capital Humano. A resistência está vinculada à construção de relações sociais que desvelam as formas de exploração empreendidas pelo modo de produção capitalista.
Ética como espaço de ressonâncias do cuidado de si docente na escola e na BNCC
Authors: Soave Cláudia , Corte Real Barbieri Simone , Antônio da Rosa Geraldo
Published: August 2020

Este artigo tem por objetivo refletir sobre a ética do cuidado de si docente, trazendo como contexto a escola pública e a Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC). O percurso metodológico, adotado nesta pesquisa, se concentra na teoria de Foucault (2000, 2001, 2008, 2010), referente ao cuidado de si e na concepção de educação, concernente à teoria de Morin (2001, 2003). Por meio da escrita e da escuta, relativa a uma amostra de docentes pertencentes à rede pública estadual da 16ª Coordenadoria Regional de Educação do Rio Grande do Sul, e da análise da BNCC, problematiza-se o silenciamento docente, influenciado por políticas educacionais brasileiras e decorrente da carência de cuidado de si, bem como da descaracterização e da anulação de espaços democráticos. Nesse contexto, entende-se que a atuação docente encontra-se condicionada às normalizações e ao controle biopolítico por meio dos mecanismos de governamentalidade.
Editorial
Authors: De Araújo Marta Maria
Published: August 2020

Editorial
Anti-proliferative and Apoptosis Induction Activity of Rhizome Extracts of Paris polyphylla Smith on Oral Cancer Cell
Authors: Puwein Arcadius , Thomas Shiny C. , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B. , Bordoloi Devivasha
Published: August 2020

Background:

Paris polyphylla is a member of the family of Melanthiaceae (earlier Trilliaceae
or Liliaceae). It is known as love apple in English. This traditional herbaceous medicinal
plant is found mostly in South East Asia.

Objective:

To investigate the anti-proliferative and apoptosis induction activity of crude extracts of
P. polyphylla on SAS oral cancer cell lines.

Methods:

The crude extracts (CE) of P. polyphylla (PP) collected from Rambrai (R), Meghalaya
(Northeast India) were prepared by using 70% ethanol (E) and 70% methanol (M) solvents and
named as PPR-ECE and PPR-MCE. The anti-proliferative effects of PPR-ECE and PPR-MCE
were tested using the MTT assay. The apoptosis was examined by Annexin V-FITC/PI doublestaining
assay.

Results:

PPR-ECE significantly (p≤ 0.05) decreased the proliferation of SAS cells up to 3.12%
with an IC50 value of 25.84 μg/ml. Whereas, PPR-MCE decreased the survival rate of SAS cells up
to 24.67% (p≤ 0.05) with an IC50 value of 425 μg/ml. PPR-ECE demonstrated higher cytotoxicity
than PPR-MCE against SAS cells. When SAS cells were treated with PPR-ECE and PPR-MCE for
72 h, the apoptotic cells increased from 0.1% (control) to 28.35% and 34% at 500μg/ml respectively.

Conclusion:

The present study revealed that P. polyphylla collected from Meghalaya has an
anti-proliferative capacity to inhibit the multiplication of the SAS cells. In comparison to PPRMCE
extract, PPR-ECE was found to be more effective against SAS proliferation. Though the anticancer
property of the herb is well documented, this investigation is the first report on the effects of
P. polyphylla extracts against SAS oral cancer cells.
Pathway of Inflammation due to Asbestiform Fiber “Fluoro-edenite” Exposure: An Update
Authors: Ledda Caterina , Lombardo Claudia , Tendi Elisabetta A. , Hagnas Maria , Paravizzini Gianluca , Filetti Vera , Rapisarda Venerando
Published: August 2020

:

FluorFluoro-edenite (FE) is an asbestos-like amphibole present in the bentonitic lavas extracted
from a stone quarry in Biancavilla, a village sited in the Etnean Volcanic Area (Italy).o-edenite (FE) is an asbestos-like amphibole present in the bentonitic lavas extracted from a stone quarry in Biancavilla, a village sited in the Etnean Volcanic Area (Italy).

:

Thoracic pathologies are the results of excessive inflammatory processes that are the early response
of the immune system to inhaled fibers. As demonstrated for asbestos, fibers may trigger immune
system cells in an acute and/or chronic manner. This review aims to clarify the pathways of
inflammation in workers exposed to FE fibers.

:

Based on the articles reviewed, it seems that a permanent stimulus created by repeatedly inhaling
the FE fibers and their persistence in the body can act as a trigger both in promoting inflammatory
processes and in the immunological induction of autoimmune disease.
Evaluation of Drug Use Based on the WHO Prescribing Indicator in Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, South Western Ethiopia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Hambisa Solomon , Feleke Rediet , Zewudie Ameha , Yimam Mohammed
Published: August 2020

Background:

Rational drug use comprises aspects of prescribing, dispensing, and patient
use of medicines for different health problems. This study is aimed to assess drug prescribing practices
based on the world health organization prescribing indicators in Mizan-Tepi University teaching
hospital.

Methods:

An institutional-based, retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the
prescribing practices in Mizan-Tepi University teaching hospital. Data were collected based on the
World health organization's drug use indicators using prescription papers. A total of 600 prescriptions,
written for a 1-year time, dispensed through the general outpatient pharmacy of the hospital
were collected by a systematic random sampling method from Mizan-Tepi University teaching
hospital.

Results:

The present study found that the average number of drugs per prescription was 2.04 ± 0.87
in Mizan-Tepi University teaching hospital, with a range between 1 and 5. Prescribing by generic
name was 97.6%, and 47.8% of prescriptions contained antibiotics in the hospital. 27.7% of prescriptions
contained at least one injectable medication in Mizan-Tepi University teaching hospital.
From prescribed drugs, 96.7% of them were prescribed from the Ethiopian essential drug list.

Conclusion:

: Present study indicated that the average number of drugs prescribed per encounter, the
percentage of generic prescribing, and prescribing from the EDL were close to the optimal value.
However, the percentage of encounters with antibiotics and injections prescribed was found to be
very high. Thus, the study highlights some improvements in prescribing habits, particularly by focusing
on the inappropriate consumption of antibiotics and injections.
A Novel Approach to Refractory Epilepsy by Targeting Pgp Peripherally and Centrally: Therapeutic Targets and Future Perspectives
Authors: Langeh Urvashi , Chawla Pooja , Gupta Ghanshyam Das , Singh Shamsher
Published: August 2020

Refractory epilepsy is a type of epilepsy involving seizures uncontrolled by first or second-
line anticonvulsant drugs at a regular therapeutic dose. Despite considerable growth in epileptic
pharmacotherapy, one-third of the patients are resistant to current therapies. In this, the mechanisms
responsible for resistant epilepsy are either increased expulsion of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)
by multidrug resistance (MDR) transporters from the epileptogenic tissue or reduced sensitivity
of drug in epileptogenic brain tissue. The difficulty to treat refractory epilepsy is because of drug resistance
due to cellular drug efflux, use of drug monotherapy, and subtherapeutic dose administration.
Increased expression of Pgp is also responsible for resistance epilepsy or refractory epilepsy.
Increased glutamate expression via inhibition of cyclooxygenase-II (COX-II) enzyme also upregulate
P-glycoprotein (Pgp) expression and augment instance of recurrent seizures. Peripheral and
central inhibition of Pgp is a powerful tool to control this drug resistant epilepsy. Drug resistance
primarily involves multidrug resistance (MDR1) gene responsible for encoding P-glycoprotein (Pg-
P1 or MDR1). Currently, there is no drug under clinical practice which inhibits MDR1. The present
review cites some drugs like Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs), COX-II inhibitors, and glutamate
receptors antagonists that inhibit P-gp. The exploitation of these targets may emerge as a beneficial
approach for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. The present review further highlights the
mechanistic role of Pgp in drug-resistant epilepsy, glutamate role in drug efflux, and management
approach.
Combination of Captopril with Gliclazide Decreases Vascular and Renal Complications and Improves Glycemic Control in Rats with Streptozotocin- Induced Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Mizar Sayed M.M. , Kozman Magy R. , Abo-Saif Ali A. , Messiha Basim A.S.
Published: August 2020

Background:

The common antihypertensive angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor
captopril was reported to possess anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in different experimental
models. Diabetic vascular complications arise from increased vascular endothelial inflammation
and oxidative stress as well as decreased nitric oxide bioavailability in the vessel walls
due to poor glycemic control.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the role of captopril and gliclazide in decreasing diabetes
mellitus (DM) vascular complications caused by decreased cellular glucose uptake and impaired endothelial
nitric oxide metabolism, as well as examine the effects of the combination on diabetic renal
complication and plasma lipid profile.

Methods:

Adult male Wister rats received captopril (25 mg/kg/day) and/or gliclazide (10 mg/kg/-
day) by oral gavage daily for one month after induction of DM using streptozotocin (50 mg/kg,
i.p., once). Serum glucose and insulin levels, inflammatory mediators like TNF-α, oxidative stress
biomarkers like glutathione and nitric oxide, and plasma lipid profile were measured. Besides, histopathological
examination of the thoracic aorta and kidney tissues, Western blot assessed the expression
of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) subtypes in the thoracic aorta.

Results:

Captopril significantly improved vascular architecture and oxidative stress and modulated
nitric oxide synthesis via regulation of nitric oxide synthases, as well as decreased inflammation
via down-regulating TNF-α, decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and improved serum
lipid profile in diabetic rats. Gliclazide increased serum insulin and decreased serum glucose, as
well as its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Conclusion:

Captopril showed a promising protective effect against DM vascular complications, at
least via nitric oxide modulating effect, anti-oxidant effect, and anti-inflammatory activity that appeared
in biochemical and histopathological findings, lipid profile, renal function, and architecture
improvements. Combining gliclazide with captopril gives an additive effect through enhanced
glycemic control and increased anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties above captopril
alone.
An Overview of the Reliability Analysis Methods of Tunneling Equipment
Authors: Ahmadi Sina , Hajihassani Mohsen , Moosazadeh S. , Moomivand H.
Published: August 2020

The absolute prevention of damage occurrence is not possible, thus reducing the probability of failure in a system and its impact is very important regarding the operation of a whole system. A failure in a system or in its subsystems makes negative results such as the stop in the production process, rising labor costs, and increasing the cost of maintenance. Reliability, in recent years, is mentioned as one of the most significant aspects of the quality of goods and services. In the past, reliability concerned sensitive and complex industries such as military, nuclear, and aerospace where the lack of their reliability could cause irreparable damage to the entire system. However, today it has become a universal concern. Tunneling equipment has grown in size and complexity and therefore, lack of reliability may cause massive costs to this equipment. Therefore, reliability determination in order to identify the components and subsystems with low reliability is essential. The aim of this study is to review the methods of tunneling equipment reliability analysis including statistical analysis, failure mode and effects analysis, Markov and fault tree methods. In addition, previous available research on the reliability analysis of tunneling equipment is presented.
A Reliable PSO-based ANN Approach for Predicting Unconfined Compressive Strength of Sandstones
Authors: Abdi Yasin , Momeni Ehsan , Khabir Reza Rashidi
Published: August 2020

Background:

The reliable determination of geomechanical parameters of rocks such as Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) using laboratory methods is problematic and time-consuming. In this regard, the construction of reliable predictive models for assessing the UCS is of advantage.

Objective:

The main purpose of this work is to propose the use of a reliable PSO-based ANN approach for predicting the UCS of sandstones.

Methods:

For this purpose, laboratory tests were performed on 60 sandstone specimens. The laboratory tests comprise P-wave velocity, dry density, Schmidt hardness and UCS. Apart from the latter, the other laboratory tests were set as model inputs. Prediction performance of the constructed model was assessed according to the criteria including coefficient of determination (R2), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) and Variance Account For (VAF).

Results:

Results (R2= 0.974 and RMSE = 0.086 and VAF = 97.5) showed the reliability of the constructed PSO-based ANN model to predict UCS of sandstones.

Conclusion:

Hence, this study recommends utilizing PSO-based ANN as a feasible tool for assessing UCS of sandstones. Nevertheless, further research is suggested for model generalization purposes.
Time Will Tell: Thoughts About Leadership in Organizations
Authors: Van Fleet David D.
Published: August 2020

Prose on leadership.
Technology Evaluation and Assessment Criteria for Health Apps (TEACH-Apps): Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Camacho Erica , Hoffman Liza , Lagan Sarah , Rodriguez-Villa Elena , Rauseo-Ricupero Natali , Wisniewski Hannah , Henson Philip , Torous John
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Despite the emergence of app evaluation tools, there remains no well-defined process receptive to diverse local needs, rigorous standards, and current content. The need for such a process to assist in the implementation of app evaluation across all medical fields is evident. Such a process has the potential to increase stakeholder engagement and catalyze interest and engagement with present-day app evaluation models.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop and pilot test the Technology Evaluation and Assessment Criteria for Health apps (TEACH-apps).

METHODS

Tailoring a well-known implementation framework, Replicating Effective Programs, we present a new process to approach the challenges faced in implementing app evaluation tools today. As a culmination of our experience implementing this process and feedback from stakeholders, we present the four-part process to aid the implementation of mobile health technology. This paper outlines the theory, evidence, and initial versions of the process.

RESULTS

The TEACH-apps process is designed to be broadly usable and widely applicable across all fields of health. The process comprises four parts: (1) preconditions (eg, gathering apps and considering local needs), (2) preimplementation (eg, customizing criteria and offering digital skills training), (3) implementation (eg, evaluating apps and creating educational handouts), and (4) maintenance and evolution (eg, repeating the process every 90 days and updating content). TEACH-apps has been tested internally at our hospital, and there is growing interest in partnering health care facilities to test the system at their sites.

CONCLUSIONS

This implementation framework introduces a process that equips stakeholders, clinicians, and users with the foundational tools to make informed decisions around app use and increase app evaluation engagement. The application of this process may lead to the selection of more culturally appropriate and clinically relevant tools in health care.
COVID-19 Discourse on Twitter in Four Asian Countries: Case Study of Risk Communication (Preprint)
Authors: Park Sungkyu , Han Sungwon , Kim Jeongwook , Molaie Mir Majid , Vu Hoang Dieu , Singh Karandeep , Han Jiyoung , Lee Wonjae , Cha Meeyoung
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has led to a global pandemic. The World Health Organization has also declared an infodemic (ie, a plethora of information regarding COVID-19 containing both false and accurate information circulated on the internet). Hence, it has become critical to test the veracity of information shared online and analyze the evolution of discussed topics among citizens related to the pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

This research analyzes the public discourse on COVID-19. It characterizes risk communication patterns in four Asian countries with outbreaks at varying degrees of severity: South Korea, Iran, Vietnam, and India.

METHODS

We collected tweets on COVID-19 from four Asian countries in the early phase of the disease outbreak from January to March 2020. The data set was collected by relevant keywords in each language, as suggested by locals. We present a method to automatically extract a time–topic cohesive relationship in an unsupervised fashion based on natural language processing. The extracted topics were evaluated qualitatively based on their semantic meanings.

RESULTS

This research found that each government’s official phases of the epidemic were not well aligned with the degree of public attention represented by the daily tweet counts. Inspired by the issue-attention cycle theory, the presented natural language processing model can identify meaningful transition phases in the discussed topics among citizens. The analysis revealed an inverse relationship between the tweet count and topic diversity.

CONCLUSIONS

This paper compares similarities and differences of pandemic-related social media discourse in Asian countries. We observed multiple prominent peaks in the daily tweet counts across all countries, indicating multiple issue-attention cycles. Our analysis identified which topics the public concentrated on; some of these topics were related to misinformation and hate speech. These findings and the ability to quickly identify key topics can empower global efforts to fight against an infodemic during a pandemic.
Discovering The True Accuracy of Ultrasonography in The Confirmation of Diagnosis of Acute Appendicitis, a World-wide Dilemma
Authors: Awaysheh Mahmoud Al , Ali Sami Sheikh , Al-Awaysheh Batool Mahmoud , Al-Awaysheh Taima’a Mahmoud
Published: August 2020

Background: Acute appendicitis occurs in almost 10 % of western populations. The male-female ratio of approximately 2:1 gradually declines after age 25 years until the gender ratio is equal. Approximately 1% of total surgical procedures are appendectomies. Negative appendectomy rates are increasing and some of the factors that play a massive role in this include clinical evaluation that is not specific and absence of readily available techniques permitting direct visualization of the appendix. Because of this world-wide problem of increasing negative appendectomies, we need a method to confirm the diagnosis of true acute appendicitis.Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate and estimate the efficacy of ultrasound in the confirmation of diagnosis of acute appendicitis in clinically suspected cases of acute appendicitis and to compare ultrasound findings with surgical findings.Methods: This study included a total of 100 patients suspected to have acute appendicitis who were admitted to the department of surgery at Al-Karak teaching hospital, Mutah University, from January 2014- December 2015. Abdominal-pelvic sonography with focus on the right lower quadrant graded compression ultrasonography technique was used. The sonographic data was prospectively correlated with clinical operative and histopathological findings.Results: Graded compression ultrasonography results were analyzed and showed 92.7% sensitivity, 94.5% specificity, 93% accuracy, 94.4% positive predictive value, 92.5% negative predictive value.Conclusion: Ultrasonography has a higher degree of accuracy so it is a safe and a reliable method in the diagnosis of suspected cases of acute appendicitis. This can help minimize negative appendectomies, perforation rates, and medical expenses on patients. Therefore from the findings in our study, we may begin to put this world-wide issue to rest.
Editorial Número 215
Authors: Silva Camarena Juan Manuel
Published: August 2020

Es apasionante el saber. Es apasionante buscar y encontrar algo. Al llevar a cabo las enormemente variadas formas de su actividad, los seres humanos buscamos y encontramos muchas cosas. Entre el haber de lo hallado, logrado por las incesantes búsquedas en todos los momentos de la historia de la humanidad, hay cosas verdaderamente maravillosas. La ciencia es una de esas maravillas. No cabe duda.
Aplicaciones administrativas empíricas del análisis estructural de los sistemas en la toma de decisiones
Authors: VALDÉS HERNÁNDEZ LUIS ALFREDO
Published: August 2020

EN ESTE TRABAJO SE DESCRIBEN LAS APLICACIONES EMPÍRICAS DEL ANÁLISIS ESTRUCTURAL, HERRAMIENTA QUE HA SIDO UTILIZADA DE MANERA FRECUENTE EN LA ELABORACIÓN DE PLANES ESTRATÉGICOS, INTEGRACIÓN DE PROGRAMAS Y DESARROLLO DE PROYECTOS PARA LA TOMA DE DECISIONES. LA APLICACIÓN DEL ANÁLISIS ESTRUCTURAL DEMANDA TRABAJAR CON MODELOS SISTÉMICOS QUE, AL VALORAR DE MANERA CUALITATIVA A LOS ELEMENTOS DEL SISTEMA, PERMITEN AL ADMINISTRADOR IDENTIFICAR LOS TIPOS DE RELACIONES QUE SE DAN ENTRE ÉSTOS Y ASÍ ACCEDER A CONFORMAR LA TOMA DE DECISIONES SUSTANTIVAS PARA LA ORGANIZACIÓN, PERMITIENDO OPTIMIZAR LOS RECURSOS DE LA MISMA.
La organización académica de las universidades públicas: entre círculos y cuerpos
Authors: Súarez Nuñez Tirso , López Canto Leonor
Published: August 2020

Una nueva estrategia de cambio apoyada en los denominados cuerpos académicos (CA) se despliega en las universidades públicas mexicanas; sin embargo, sus resultados pueden ser irregulares por el uso de una terminología poco clara. Efectivamente, en la literatura y en el discurso oficial, el concepto de CA ya no es usado como sinónimo de comunidad sometida a examen sociológico, si no como grupo disciplinar concebido como un elemento organizacional al cual se le atribuyen responsabilidades y tareas, pero sin precisar los arreglos estructurales y normativos para que cumplan los propósitos que se le asignan; esto conlleva el riesgo de convertirlos en "círculos de calidad" e incluso en simples fachadas. Frente a este panorama, en este trabajo se identifican las insuficiencias e imprecisiones del discurso, las cuales vistas a la luz de teorías de organización académica permiten formular los escenarios posibles y deseables con la intención de clarificar y encauzar el cambio que se busca.
Riesgo sistemático en el mercado mexicano de capitales: un caso de segmentación parcial
Authors: LÓPEZ HERRERA FRANCISCO
Published: August 2020

EN ESTE DOCUMENTO SE PRESENTAN LOS RESULTADOS OBTENIDOS MEDIANTE LA ESTIMACIÓN DE UN MODELO ECONOMÉTRICO PARA ESTUDIAR LA DINÁMICA DE LA PRIMA DE RIESGO DEL MERCADO MEXICANO DE CAPITALES. LAS VARIABLES EXPLICATIVAS SON LOS FACTORES DE RIESGO MOSTRADOS POR LÓPEZ Y ORTIZ (2005), CONSTRUIDOS CON BASE EN VARIABLES ECONÓMICAS CUYA IMPORTANCIA PARA EXPLICAR EL RIESGO SISTEMÁTICO HA SIDO IDENTIFICADA EN LA LITERATURA TEÓRICA Y EN LA DERIVADA DE ESTUDIOS EMPÍRICOS PARA EL CASO MEXICANO. EN EL ANÁLISIS QUE SE PRESENTA EN EL DOCUMENTO SE CONSIDERAN TAMBIÉN LA RELACIÓN DEL MERCADO MEXICANO CON EL MERCADO MUNDIAL DE CAPITALES Y EVENTOS IMPORTANTES PARA EL MERCADO MEXICANO DE VALORES. ADEMÁS DE LA EVIDENCIA DE QUE LOS FACTORES ANALIZADOS SON RELEVANTES PARA EXPLICAR LA PRIMA DE RIESGO EN MÉXICO, SE ENCUENTRA QUE LA LIBERALIZACIÓN FINANCIERA, EL TRATADO DE LIBRE COMERCIO DE AMÉRICA DEL NORTE (TLCAN) Y EL PROCESO DE ESTABILIZACIÓN DE LA ECONOMÍA MEXICANA MEDIANTE EL PACTO Y LAS POLÍTICAS SUCEDÁNEAS HAN TENIDO EFECTOS SIGNIFICATIVOS TAMBIÉN. ASIMISMO, SE ENCUENTRA EVIDENCIA DE SEGMENTACIÓN PARCIAL DEL MERCADO MEXICANO DE CAPITALES CON RESPECTO DEL MUNDIAL.
Aspectos económicos y contables del voluntariado en las ONGs
Authors: FALCON PÉREZ CARMEN ESTHER , FUENTES PERDOMO JUANA
Published: August 2020

HABITUALMENTE, EXISTE UNA CORRELACIÓN CUASI DIRECTA ENTRE LAS ORGANIZACIONES NO LUCRATIVAS Y EL VOLUNTARIADO, CONSTITUYENDO UNO DE LOS RASGOS DEFINITORIOS DE ESTE TIPO DE ORGANIZACIONES DEL DENOMINADO TERCER SECTOR. ESTE TRABAJO PLANTEA DIVERSAS CONSIDERACIONES Y ALTERNATIVAS RELACIONADAS CON LA INFORMACIÓN CONTABLE POR SUMINISTRAR; DE IGUAL FORMA SE PRESENTA SU CONCEPTUALIZACIÓN Y, POR ÚLTIMO, LA VALORACIÓN ECONÓMICA DEL VOLUNTARIADO, CONSIDERADO COMO UN FACTOR PRODUCTIVO NECESARIO EN EL DESARROLLO DE LAS ACTIVIDADES QUE CONTRIBUYEN AL LOGRO DE LOS OBJETIVOS DE CARÁCTER SOCIAL QUE PERSIGUEN ESTAS ENTIDADES.
Competitividad e información como generadores de competitividad
Authors: DOMÍNGUEZ CHÁVEZ GUILLERMO , VERA MARTÍNEZ JORGE
Published: August 2020

HABITUALMENTE, EXISTE UNA CORRELACIÓN CUASI DIRECTA ENTRE LAS ORGANIZACIONES NO LUCRATIVAS Y EL VOLUNTARIADO, CONSTITUYENDO UNO DE LOS RASGOS DEFINITORIOS DE ESTE TIPO DE ORGANIZACIONES DEL DENOMINADO TERCER SECTOR. ESTE TRABAJO PLANTEA DIVERSAS CONSIDERACIONES Y ALTERNATIVAS RELACIONADAS CON LA INFORMACIÓN CONTABLE POR SUMINISTRAR; DE IGUAL FORMA SE PRESENTA SU CONCEPTUALIZACIÓN Y, POR ÚLTIMO, LA VALORACIÓN ECONÓMICA DEL VOLUNTARIADO, CONSIDERADO COMO UN FACTOR PRODUCTIVO NECESARIO EN EL DESARROLLO DE LAS ACTIVIDADES QUE CONTRIBUYEN AL LOGRO DE LOS OBJETIVOS DE CARÁCTER SOCIAL QUE PERSIGUEN ESTAS ENTIDADES.
La estrategia competitiva que adopta la empresa transnacional en el mercado global
Authors: CABELLO CHÁVEZ ADALBERTO , REYES AVELLANEDA RAFAEL , SOLIS PÉREZ PEDRO
Published: August 2020

LA ALDEA GLOBAL ES UN MUNDO SIN FRONTERAS, SIN LÍMITES, SIN RESIDENCIA, DONDE CIRCULAN LIBREMENTE INDIVIDUOS, MERCANCÍAS Y CAPITAL. LAS INSTITUCIONES DE LA ALDEA GLOBAL ESTÁN CONFORMADAS POR EL ESTADO REGIONAL, LA EMPRESA TRANSNACIONAL Y EL MERCADO GLOBAL, DE LAS CUALES LA QUE SE ACOPLA Y DOMINA A LA ALDEA ES LA EMPRESA TRANSNACIONAL, QUE UTILIZA DIVERSAS ESTRATEGIAS COMPETITIVAS PARA CONTROLAR EL MERCADO GLOBAL A TRAVÉS DE LA ORGANIZACIÓN MULTINACIONAL CON GESTIÓN CENTRALIZADA Y DESCENTRALIZADA Y LA ORGANIZACIÓN GLOBAL CON GESTIÓN DESCONCENTRADA.
La materialidad en auditoría como barrera hacia la comparabilidad de la información financiera: una revisión de la investigación empírica previa
Authors: MARTÍNEZ GARCÍA FRANCISCO JAVIER , FERNÁNDEZ LAVIADA ANA , MONTOYA DEL CORTE JAVIER
Published: August 2020

INICIATIVAS COMO LAS NORMAS INTERNACIONALES DE CONTABILIDAD E INFORMACIÓN FINANCIERA (NIC/NIIF), ASÍ COMO LAS NORMAS INTERNACIONALES DE AUDITORÍA (NIA) SUPONEN UN GRAN IMPULSO HACIA LA ARMONIZACIÓN DE LA INFORMACIÓN CORPORATIVA. NO OBSTANTE, EN SU PROCESO DE IMPLANTACIÓN ENCONTRAMOS CIERTAS IMPRECISIONES QUE VIENEN EXISTIENDO DESDE HACE DÉCADAS; UNA DE ELLAS ES LA APLICACIÓN DEL CONCEPTO DE MATERIALIDAD EN CONTABILIDAD Y AUDITORÍA. EL OBJETIVO DE ESTE TRABAJO ES DEMOSTRAR, A TRAVÉS DE UNA REVISIÓN DE LA BIBLIOGRAFÍA PREVIA ESPECIALIZADA, QUE LA AUSENCIA DE PAUTAS OBLIGATORIAS PARA DETERMINAR LA MATERIALIDAD EN LOS TRABAJOS DE AUDITORÍA ORIGINA UNA CONTINUA FALTA DE CONSENSO ENTRE LOS INDIVIDUOS, LO CUAL DESFAVORECE EL PROCESO DE ESTABLECIMIENTO DE SISTEMAS QUE PERMITAN LA COMPARABILIDAD PLENA DE LA INFORMACIÓN FINANCIERA PUBLICADA POR LAS EMPRESAS.
Aspectos relevantes del diseño, gestión e impactos del programa de Fomento Agrícola en el estado de Yucatán 2002-2005
Authors: LEYVA MORALES CARLO E. , MAGAÑA MAGAÑA MIGUEL ÁNGEL
Published: August 2020

EN ESTE ESTUDIO SE ANALIZA EL PROCESO DE EVALUACIÓN DE POLÍTICAS PÚBLICAS EN EL SUBSECTOR AGRÍCOLA, ESPECÍFICAMENTE EL PROGRAMA ALIANZA CONTIGO (ANTES ALIANZA PARA EL CAMPO); ADEMÁS, SE ESTABLECE SU SITUACIÓN, SE DETERMINA SU INFLUENCIA EN EL IMPACTO DEL PROGRAMA DE FOMENTO AGRÍCOLA DE YUCATÁN, DEL 2002 AL 2005, Y SE OBSERVA SU EFICACIA Y EFICIENCIA. SE OBSERVÓ QUE LA EVALUACIÓN DE POLÍTICAS DEL PROGRAMA SE EFECTÚA POR OBJETIVOS. LOS PRINCIPALES RESULTADOS ECONÓMICOS Y SOCIALES, DERIVADOS DE SU OPERACIÓN, FUERON LA LIMITADA CAPITALIZACIÓN (ATOMIZACIÓN DEL APOYO), TECNIFICACIÓN DE LAS UNIDADES DE PRODUCCIÓN (MEJORA TÉCNICA Y VARIEDADES TOLERANTES A VTC "VIRUS DE TRISTEZA DE LOS CÍTRICOS"). TAMBIÉN SE OBSERVÓ QUE HUBO APOYO INSUFICIENTE A GRUPOS DE PRODUCTORES Y A LA POBLACIÓN RURAL; ASIMISMO, QUE SE DIO POCOS INCENTIVOS PARA REDUCIR LA EMIGRACIÓN A CIUDADES O PARA LA GENERACIÓN DE FUENTES DE EMPLEO TEMPORAL. DE IGUAL FORMA, CON RESPECTO AL PROCESO DE EVALUACIÓN, SE ENCONTRÓ QUE NO ES OBJETIVO PORQUE NO CUMPLE CON EL SEGUIMIENTO; ADEMÁS, LA METODOLOGÍA ES LIMITADA Y NO EVALÚA LA EFICIENCIA DEL PROPIO PROGRAMA.
El modelo de valuación de activos de capital aplicado a mercados financieros emergentes. El caso de México 1997-2006
Authors: Sensores Guerrero Édgar
Published: August 2020

Esta investigación tiene por objetivo determinar la validez, desde el punto de vista estadístico y financiero, de los supuestos básicos del modelo de valuación de activos de capital (CAPM, en inglés). También se evalúa su aplicación como modelo de formación de carteras de inversión en el mercado mexicano de valores. Los supuestos evaluados son los concernientes a la estandarización del marco que rodea la decisión, que son el criterio media-varianza, la eficiencia del mercado y las evaluaciones que realizan los inversionistas acerca de las distintas combinaciones de rendimiento esperado y riesgo de sus inversiones. Se concluye que, aunque el CAPM ha demostrado su eficiencia como herramienta de pronóstico en economías desarrolladas, aún no se comprueba su pertinencia en mercados emergentes. En México, por ejemplo, de acuerdo con esta investigación, existen otros factores de riesgo tales como inflación, inseguridad y clima político. Dadas las características de los mercados emergentes, el análisis con este modelo resulta inadecuado, pues distorsiona el funcionamiento del mercado de valores.
El reto de la formación profesional de los administradores
Authors: Agüero Aguirre Mario de
Published: August 2020

La formación de los administradores en general está orientada, en muchos casos, al desarrollo del conocimiento y habilidades laborales (saber, saber hacer), sin considerar el desarrollo de otras habilidades, así como la promoción de valores y la ética, tendentes a una formación integral que permita una visión global de las condiciones del ámbito económico, político y social dentro del cual se desempeña su profesión.
Análisis de la experiencia de negocios de pequeños empresarios canadienses con México
Authors: DE LA GARZA CARRANZA MARÍA TERESA , P. EGRI CAROLYN
Published: August 2020

ESTE TRABAJO ABORDA LA RELACIÓN DE LAS PEQUEÑAS EMPRESAS CANADIENSES CON EMPRESARIOS MEXICANOS, CON ESPECIAL INTERÉS EN LAS COMPETENCIAS ORGANIZACIONALES Y LA EXPERIENCIA PERSONAL DE LOS EMPRENDEDORES CANADIENSES QUE TIENEN NEGOCIOS EN MÉXICO. PARA LLEVAR A CABO LO ANTERIOR, SE REALIZARON ENTREVISTAS A PROFUNDIDAD A 14 EMPRESARIOS CANADIENSES EN EL ÁREA DE COLUMBIA BRITÁNICA, EN EL LADO OESTE DE CANADÁ. LOS RESULTADOS DEL ANÁLISIS DE TEXTO DE LAS ENTREVISTAS SUGIEREN QUE EL ESCANEO DEL ENTORNO ES IMPORTANTE PARA QUE EL EMPRESARIO PUEDA TOMAR INICIATIVAS DE INTERNACIONALIZACIÓN; ADEMÁS, CON ELLO SE TENDRÁ UNA VISIÓN CLARA DE LOS OBJETIVOS Y LAS FORTALEZAS DEL NEGOCIO. EL ESTILO DE LIDERAZGO GENERALMENTE MOSTRADO POR LOS ADMINISTRADORES ES INSPIRADOR Y VISIONARIO COMO LO SUGIERE BASS (1999); LA SENSIBILIDAD CULTURAL DE LOS EMPRESARIOS CANADIENSES ES FAVORABLE HACIA LOS EMPRESARIOS MEXICANOS. LAS RELACIONES DE NEGOCIOS EXITOSAS SE BASAN EN EL DESARROLLO DE SOCIOS COMERCIALES Y SE DESCRIBEN COMPORTAMIENTOS QUE FACILITAN U OBSTACULIZAN LA RELACIÓN POR PARTE DE LOS EMPRESARIOS MEXICANOS.