bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GLOBAL AGENDA AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGS)
Authors: Sarangi Unmana
Published: February 2020

The research paper entitled ‘Global Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)’ is an attempt to analyze the existing relationship between the global agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs) in terms of key global macro parameters that are part of the global agenda and the international order to achieve the SDGs by the turn of 2030 slated by the United Nations. Though the scope of this paper has been limited and confined to the only study of the key global macro parameters, their interrelationships and inter-linkages, their role in achieving global sustainable development cannot be undermined. There is a lot of pieces of literature on the subject, but a lot more needs to be studied and analyzed to assess the intricacies involved in these key macro parameters and their role in achieving SDGs. It is understood that United Nations is the key international organization at the global level to perceive the concept of SDGs and the key global macro parameters such as international and foreign policies, climate action, education, reduced inequalities, poverty, global economic growth, violent conflicts, technology, housing, migration etc., that can be analyzed and assessed to figure out the key lacunae in implementation of these global parameters so that corrective measures could be taken to rectify these macro imbalances in order to achieve sustained international order and development. The review of literature has been dealt in this paper to the extent that the role and perceptions of United Nations in figuring out and in analyzing the key global macro parameters needs particular mention as it is the only international organization functioning at the global level to identify and perceive such new interrelationships and linkages existing amongst the key global macro variables in achieving the SDGs by 2030. It is felt that the SDGs are holistic concepts that cover almost all the aspects of human life and existence on this planet earth. The paper dwells into the aspects such as the SDGs facing strong challenges, slowing global economic growth, issues relating to inequalities, international migration, education, child and health care, climate change and climate risks, violent conflicts vitiating SDGs, inter-linkages between inequalities and climate action, small island economies and LDCs most vulnerable to climate risks, role of technology in achieving SDGs, energy security and global peace, world economic situation and prospects, global conversation and dialogue and role of global cooperation etc., The most important conclusion that could be drawn from this research study is that in order to achieve sustainable development goals and global sustainable development including international development the role and interrelationships, inter-linkages amongst these global macro variables is of paramount importance in building a new international order through global peace and inclusive societies.
MODERN TRENDS IN EDUCATION
Authors: Gejdoš Miroslav
Published: February 2020

The author of the study explores new trends and technologies in the education process. This suggests the suitabil-ity of introducing innovations not only to teaching methods and forms, but also to change the concept of teaching content, and to change students' approach to learning, to teach them (Petlák E., 2012, pp. 18-19).
Of the many approaches to innovative teaching, humanistic principles are considered as a key. They try to present the view on neuropedagogy and neurodidactics, their common feature is the desire to increase the level of pro-gress and the results of the educational process.
OBJECTIVITY IN SOCIAL SCIENCE
Authors: Dansabo Muhammad Tasiu , Bello Muhammad Muhammad
Published: February 2020

The debate on the scientific status of the Social Sciences and their bid to achieve objectivity in their inquiries is an unending debate within and outside the Social Science family. The positivists are of the opinion that objectivity in Social Science is achievable and that scientific methods can be used in Social Science inquiry, just the same or similar way(s) the natural scientists do their scientific endeavor. To the positivists ‘value-free Social Science’ is possible. This position is however criticized even within the Social Sciences, let alone in the scientific world. All these debates centered on whether or not the Social Scientists are truly scientific in their quest for knowledge. No matter the outcome of the debate what is obvious is that there is a philosophical problem with scientific objectivity in general. Based on a historical review of the development of certain scientific theories, in his book, ‘the Structure of scientific revolutions’, a scientist and a historian Thomas Kuhn raised some philosophical objections to claims of the possibility of scientific understanding being truly objective. Against this backdrop, the paper seeks to unravel the varied theoretical debates on the subject.
THE PLACE OF PHILOSOPHY, LANGUAGE, AND LITERATURE IN LIBERAL EDUCATION (AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE)
Authors: Ukanga Lambert Peter , Okoedion Eseohe Glory
Published: February 2020

In history, philosophy, language, and literature have been a propelling force towards achieving a distinctive cul-ture in human civilization. We are therefore reminded that philosophy, language, and literature have a great deal of educational tenet, especially in the African world view. To foster holistic values in line with education, this study investigates that philosophy; language and literature have been in the transformation of armchair theoriza-tion of various disciplines into a pragmatic solution for our contemporary challenges. Using evaluative approach, this study opens up the fact that philosophy, language, and literature is not really a single filed of disciplines but rather a catchall for a number of problems whose scope and significance are so broad that they seem to have im-plication for virtually every other sphere of human endeavors.
Comparison of male reproductive parameters in mice with type 1 and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sampannang Apichakan , Arun Supatcharee , Burawat Jaturon , Sukhorum Wannisa , Iamsaard Sitthichai
Published: February 2020

Objective: The differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T1DM and T2DM) in terms of their adverse effects on male reproductive parameters have never been elucidated. This study aimed to distinguish between the effects of the DM types in mice treated with multiple low doses of streptozotocin (STZ) to mimic human T1DM and coadministered a high-fat diet (HFD) to mimic human T2DM.Methods: The T1DM mice were intraperitoneally injected with STZ (40 mg/kg body weight) for 5 days. The T2DM mice received an HFD for 14 days prior to STZ injection (85 mg/kg body weight), followed by continuous feeding of an HFD. Male reproductive parameters were evaluated.Results: The reproductive organs of the DM mice weighed significantly less than those of controls, and the seminal vesicles plus prostates of the T1DM mice weighed less than those of the T2DM mice. Increased sperm abnormalities and incomplete DNA packaging were observed in the DM groups. Sperm concentration and the proportion of normal sperm were significantly lower in the T1DM group. The seminiferous histopathology of DM mice was classified into seven types. The penises of the DM mice were smaller than those of the controls; however, tunica albuginea thickness and the amount of penile collagen fibers were increased in these mice. Round germ cells were abundant in the epididymal lumens of the mice with DM.Conclusion: T1DM adversely affected reproductive parameters to a greater extent than T2DM.
DO LITISCONSÓRCIO: BASES FUNDAMENTAIS PARA ENTENDIMENTO DO MECANISMO
Authors: Miranda Andreas Gabriel Ferreira
Published: February 2020

The joinder is based on the existence of three or more subjects in the procedural relationship, being more than one author, or defendant, the joinder is not restricted only procedural relationships, being applicable in both procedural incidents, in cases of conflict of jurisdiction and, until even in resources, there are several possibilities for litisconsortial training, which may be: necessary, unitary, passive, active, mixed, optional, not forgetting the possibility of "iussu iudicis" intervention. The mechanism of litigation brings more speed to judicial proceedings, making causes that could be very slow to the system of adjudication, more speed and efficiency in its resolutions, making the principle of procedural speed more efficient, in addition to untangling the judicial system.
PETROBRAS: CONTEXTO JURÍDICO-HISTÓRICO E OS DELITOS EM DETRIMENTO DA ADMINISTRAÇÃO PÚBLICA
Authors: Souto Fabiana Vergílio
Published: February 2020

The main expression of capitalism, if companies spread in interdependent international system, and today are expressive elements of reality at the national and international economy. Petrobras was founded on 3 October 1953, as a result of a popular campaign that lasted seven years called "the oil is ours". Despite the history of achievement and success, this company has been facing the biggest crisis since your creation, caused by criminal practices in your administration, encouraging, among other consequences, the fall of their actions in the financial market.This study aims to sketch historical notes until the outbreak of the investigation of offences perpetrated in this context by public officials and private individuals, damage to generating money. The hypothetical-deductive method provides the means to construct, methodology, analysis of the theme of this research and the formation of a conjecture to clarify the problematic proposal, using the search of bibliographical material, more specifically books written, and digital format, and journalistic articles already published. Through this, also edited that, Petrobras, despite the history of success, foryears is the stage of investigation of criminal practices perpetrated to the detriment of the public administration, specifically: bidding fraud, money laundering, crime against the market, foreign exchange evasion, passive corruption, active corruption and criminal organization.
O SETOR DE CONSUMO CÍCLICO SEGUNDO AÇÕES NEGOCIADAS NA B3: O SEGMENTO DE ELETRODOMÉSTICOS, PRODUTOS DIVERSOS,TECIDOS,VESTUÁRIOE CALÇADOS
Authors: Castanha Rafael Gutierres , Miranda Andreia de Fatima Costa , Pontes Lucas Alves de
Published: February 2020

By analyzing a portion of the Brazilian financial market, according to the daily value of its shares traded on the largest stock exchange in the country, the B3 stock exchange, offering possibilities to understand more clearly the behavior of the stock market according to growth, decrease, and even the stability of the values traded on the stock market in question. Thus, this research presents an analysis using Pearson's correlation coefficient and offers elements to affirm or refute the idea of proximity between companies in the same sector or not. By proposing the application of this methodology in the segment of home appliances, miscellaneous products, and fabrics, clothing and footwear, it is possible to point out how closely these companies are interconnected in terms of stock price variability. Thus, the objective was to observe not only the behavior of the stock price of the companies of the sector in question during a given period, as well as the intensity of variation between the same measures by the correlation coefficient, but also to evaluate the use of this coefficient as a proposal. methodological approach to assess the proximity between the companies. As a result, it was concluded that the largest proximityis between companies of the same segment.
UMA BREVE REFLEXÃO SOBRE A ATUAL APROPRIAÇÃO NO BAIXIO DO VIADUTO TANNEL ABBUD EM PRESIDENTE PRUDENTE/SP
Authors: Contre Maria Gabriela Salvino , Maria Yeda Ruiz , Aguiar Victor Martins de
Published: February 2020

The production of discontinuities, such as viaducts, roundabouts and centrals, has been a mistake since the early twentieth century. The controls reproduced by the control of structures have influenced the contemporary planning. The present article has as reference the case of the Tannel Abbud Viaduct, located in the city of Presidente Prudente -SP, in search of analysis as having occurred in the lowlands, by the population. For such, it makes bibliographical, documentary and on-site observations. The results were those, while the applied atmospheres were in accordance with the space offerings, as well as the possibilities of using the resources for marginal use.
The Impact of Due Process and Disruptions on Emergency Medicine Education in the United States
Authors: Alvarez Al'ai , Messman Anne , Platt Melissa , Healy Megan , Josephson Elaine , London Shawn , Char Douglas
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Academic Emergency Medicine (EM) departments are not immune to natural disasters, economic or political forces that disrupt a training program’s operations and educational mission. Due process concerns are closely intertwined with the challenges that program disruption brings. Due process is a protection whereby an individual will not lose rights without access to a fair procedural process. Effects of natural disasters similarly create disruptions in the physical structure of training programs that at times have led to the displacement of faculty and trainees. Variation exists in the implementation of transitions amongst training sites across the country, and its impact on residency programs, faculty, residents and medical students.

Methods: We reviewed the available literature regarding due process in emergency medicine. We also reviewed recent examples of training programs that underwent disruptions. We used this data to create a set of best practices regarding the handling of disruptions and due process in academic EM.

Results: Despite recommendations from organized medicine, there is currently no standard to protect due process rights for faculty in emergency medicine training programs. Especially at times of disruption, the due process rights of the faculty become relevant, as the multiple parties involved in a transition work together to protect the best interests of the faculty, program, residents and students. Amongst training sites across the country, there exist variations in the scope and impact of due process on residency programs, faculty, residents and medical students.

Conclusion: We report on the current climate of due process for training programs, individual faculty, residents and medical students that may be affected by disruptions in management. We outline recommendations that hospitals, training programs, institutions and academic societies can implement to enhance due process and ensure the educational mission of a residency program is given due consideration during times of transition.
Ketamine Safety and Use in the Emergency Department for Pain and Agitation/Delirium: A Health System Experience
Authors: Mo Hanjie , Campbell Matthew , Fertel Baruch , Lam Simon , Wells Elizabeth , Casserly Elizabeth , Meldon Stephen
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Two protocols were developed to guide the use of subdissociative dose ketamine (SDDK) for analgesia and dissociative sedation ketamine for severe agitation/excited delirium in the emergency department (ED). We sought to evaluate the safety of these protocols implemented in 18 EDs within a large health system.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review to evaluate all adult patients who received intravenous (IV) SDDK for analgesia and intramuscular (IM) dissociative sedation ketamine for severe agitation/excited delirium in 12 hospital-based and six freestanding EDs over a one-year period from the protocol implementation. We developed a standardized data collection form and used it to record patient information regarding ketamine use, concomitant medication use, and any comorbidities that could have impacted the incidence of adverse events.

Results: Approximately 570,000 ED visits occurred during the study period. SDDK was used in 210 ED encounters, while dissociative sedation ketamine for severe agitation/excited delirium was used in 37 ED encounters. SDDK was used in 83% (15/18) of sites while dissociative sedation ketamine was used in 50% (9/18) of sites. Endotracheal intubation, non-rebreather mask, and nasal cannula ≥ four liters per minute were identified in one, five, and three patients, respectively. Neuropsychiatric adverse events were identified in 4% (9/210) of patients who received SDDK.

Conclusion: Patients experienced limited neuropsychiatric adverse events from SDDK. Additionally, dissociative sedation ketamine for severe agitation/excited delirium led to less endotracheal intubation than reported in the prehospital literature. The favorable safety profile of ketamine use in the ED may prompt further increases in usage.
Predictors of Patient Satisfaction and the Perceived Quality of Healthcare in an Emergency Department in Portugal
Authors: Abidova Alina , Alcantara da Silva Pedro , Moreira Sergio
Published: February 2020

Introduction: The predictors of patient satisfaction in emergency medicine (EM) have been widely studied and discussed in the scientific literature; the results vary depending on the specific EM attributes, cultural aspects, researchers’ preferences, and approaches. However, it is not clear whether the same predictors of patient satisfaction can contribute to a better-perceived quality of healthcare or whether patients’ perceptions form a different attitude toward satisfaction and perceived quality of healthcare. The goal of this study was to identify the key predictors of patient satisfaction and perceived quality of healthcare in the framework of an emergency department (ED).

Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of patients seen at an ED between January -December 2016. Data collection took place in the public hospital in Lisbon, Portugal, between May - November 2017. The total sample size included 382 patients. The sample distribution had a 5% margin of error and a 95% confidence interval. Data for this research, using a questionnaire, was collected by mail or e-mail according to the respondent’s preference.

Results: A detailed analysis showed that three out of the 18 predictors had a statistically significant relationship with satisfaction: overall satisfaction with doctors, with a positive correlation (r = 0.14, p ≤ 0.01); qualitative perceived waiting time for triage, with a positive correlation (r = 0.08, p ≤ 0.05); and meeting expectations, with a positive correlation (r = 0.53, p ≤ 0.01). Furthermore, a detailed analysis showed that only two out of the 18 predictors had a statistically significant relationship with the perceived quality of healthcare (PQHC): overall satisfaction with doctors, with a positive correlation (r = 0.43, p ≤ 0.01) and meeting expectations, with a positive correlation (r = 0.26, p ≤ 0.01).

Conclusion: The main predictors of satisfaction and perceived quality of healthcare were overall satisfaction with doctors and meeting expectations. We should note that “meeting expectations” plays the most important role in terms of satisfaction; however, in terms of PQHC the predictor “overall satisfaction with doctors” plays the most important role due to its stronger correlation. In addition, the qualitative perceived waiting time for triage could be considered as another predictor, influencing satisfaction only, thus emphasizing similarities and differences between satisfaction and the PQHC in an ED context.
Conversación
Authors: Peñín Llobell Alberto , Felip Olga , Gascón Eduardo , Godó Ramon , Leclerc Judith , Mejón Artigas Julio José , Partida Muñoz Mara Gabriela
Published: February 2020

Conversación entre los 7 actuales profesores de la Cátedra Blanca: Olga Felip, Eduard Gascón, Ramón Godó, Judith Leclerc, Julio Mejón, Mara Partida

Barcelona, June 11, 2019; under the pretext of Ramón Godo’s last day of class at the School, the seven professors of the White Chair of Barcelona gathered around a table. The course ends and with the first heats of summer the chair (on its 20th anniversary) has to face new challenges such as its passage to the ETSAB master’s degree, after 13 courses in the third year of the career. The atmosphere of change, after a long sweet and fruitful period, is the ideal context to discuss two or three questions, about our origins, our concerns, about the future of students, the profession and the School.
Noticing Aloud: Uncovering Mathematics Teacher Noticing in the Moment
Authors: Munson Jen
Published: February 2020

Understanding mathematics teacher noticing has been the focus of a growing body of research, in which student work and classroom videos are often used as artifacts for surfacing teachers’ cognitive processes. However, what teachers notice through reflecting on artifacts of teaching may not be parallel to what they notice in the complex and demanding environment of the classroom. This article used a new technique, side-by-side coaching, to uncover teacher noticing in the moment of instruction. There were 21 instances of noticing aloud during side by side coaching which were analyzed and classified, yielding 6 types of teacher noticing aloud, including instances in which teachers expressed confidence, struggle, and wonder. Implications for coaching and future research on teacher noticing are discussed.
MARKETING MANAGEMENT OF THE LIGHTHOUSE HERITAGE IN THE FUNCTION OF STRENGTHENING THE NATIONAL IDENTITY ON THE GLOBAL TOURISM MARKET: STONE LIGHTS (CROATIA) AND THE ART OF THE LIGHTHOUSES (MONTENEGRO)
Authors: Jakšić Stojanović Anđela , Šerić Neven , Perišić Mate
Published: February 2020

The paper presents marketing projects of managing lighthouses as cultural and historical heritage in Croatia and Montenegro. Regardless of the advances in technology and changes of the functioning of modern navigational aids, lighthouses as cultural-historical monuments can get other value through the touristic market. The Croatian Stone Lights project is a commercialization of lighthouse buildings as a good practice example of promoting the maritime identity of the country, promoting national tourism offer and positioning the national tourism brand in the global tourism market. The Montenegrin project The Art of the Lighthouses is an original concept of creating destination icons by implementing art installations on lighthouses, harbours and coastal lights, which were used in this project for a purpose other than their primary one – being part of the navigation safety system. The aim of the paper is to present the results of these projects and their impact on the national identity. There are few tourist destinations in the world that offer accommodation in lighthouses, and there are still fewer examples of using port and coastal lights as recognizable destination icons. The paper develops through three basic sections: the introduction of both projects, descriptive analysis of tourist valorisation of lighthouses (marketing management of lighthouses as a part of cultural heritage and creation of destination icons), and finally research findings (focus of tourism expert groups – how to connect Croatian and Montenegrin projects on the marketing platform).  The research results of this paper aim at linking Croatian and Montenegrin marketing experiences for the possible future cooperation in the field of commercialization of cultural and historical resources for touristic valorisation.
Inter- and intra-animal variation in the integrative properties of stellate cells in the medial entorhinal cortex
Authors: Pastoll Hugh , Garden Derek L , Papastathopoulos Ioannis , Sürmeli Gülşen , Nolan Matthew F
Published: February 2020

Distinctions between cell types underpin organizational principles for nervous system function. Functional variation also exists between neurons of the same type. This is exemplified by correspondence between grid cell spatial scales and the synaptic integrative properties of stellate cells (SCs) in the medial entorhinal cortex. However, we know little about how functional variability is structured either within or between individuals. Using ex-vivo patch-clamp recordings from up to 55 SCs per mouse, we found that integrative properties vary between mice and, in contrast to the modularity of grid cell spatial scales, have a continuous dorsoventral organization. Our results constrain mechanisms for modular grid firing and provide evidence for inter-animal phenotypic variability among neurons of the same type. We suggest that neuron type properties are tuned to circuit-level set points that vary within and between animals.
Inhibition of protein synthesis in M1 of monkeys disrupts performance of sequential movements guided by memory
Authors: Ohbayashi Machiko
Published: February 2020

The production of action sequences is a fundamental aspect of motor skills. To examine whether primary motor cortex (M1) is involved in maintenance of sequential movements, we trained two monkeys (Cebus apella) to perform two sequential reaching tasks. In one task, sequential movements were instructed by visual cues, whereas in the other task, movements were generated from memory after extended practice. After the monkey became proficient with performing the tasks, we injected an inhibitor of protein synthesis, anisomycin, into M1 to disrupt information storage in this area. Injection of anisomycin in M1 had a marked effect on the performance of sequential movements that were guided by memory. In contrast, the anisomycin injection did not have a significant effect on the performance of movements guided by vision. These results suggest that M1 of non-human primates is involved in the maintenance of skilled sequential movements.
Establishing an optimized method for the separation of low and high abundance blood plasma proteins
Authors: Yang Henian , Wang Guijie , Zhang Tiantian , Beattie John H. , Zhou Shaobo
Published: February 2020

The study tested the efficiency and reproducibility of a method for optimal separation of low and high abundant proteins in blood plasma. Firstly, three methods for the separation and concentration of eluted (E: low abundance), or bound (B: high abundance) proteins were investigated: TCA protein precipitation, the ReadyPrep™ 2-D cleanup Kit and Vivaspin Turbo 4, 5 kDa ultrafiltration units. Secondly, the efficiency and reproducibility of a Seppro column or a ProteoExtract Albumin/IgG column were assessed by quantification of E and B proteins. Thirdly, the efficiency of two elution buffers, containing either 25% or 10% glycerol for elution of the bound protein, was assessed by measuring the remaining eluted volume and the final protein concentration. Compared to the samples treated with TCA protein precipitation and the ReadyPrep™ 2-D cleanup Kit, the E and B proteins concentrated by the Vivaspin4, 5 kDa ultrafiltration unit were separated well in both 1-D and 2-D gels. The depletion efficiency of abundant protein in the Seppro column was reduced after 15 cycles of sample processing and regeneration and the average ratio of E/(B + E) × 100% was 37 ± 11(%) with a poor sample reproducibility as shown by a high coefficient of variation (CV = 30%). However, when the ProteoExtract Albumin/IgG column was used, the ratio of E/(B + E) × 100% was 43 ± 3.1% (n = 6) and its CV was 7.1%, showing good reproducibility. Furthermore, the elution buffer containing 10% (w/v) glycerol increased the rate of B protein elution from the ProteoExtract Albumin/IgG column, and an appropriate protein concentration (3.5 µg/µl) for a 2-D gel assay could also be obtained when it was concentrated with Vivaspin Turbo 4, 5 kDa ultrafiltration unit. In conclusion, the ProteoExtract Albumin/IgG column shows good reproducibility of preparation of low and high abundance blood plasma proteins when using the elution buffer containing 10% (w/v) glycerol. The optimized method of preparation of low/high abundance plasma proteins was when plasma was eluted through a ProteoExtract Albumin/IgG removal column, the column was further washed with elution buffer containing 10% glycerol. The first and second elution containing the low and high abundance plasma proteins, respectively, were further concentrated using Vivaspin® Turbo 4, 5 kDa ultrafiltration units for 1 or 2-D gel electrophoresis.
Life history stage explains behavior in a social network before and during the early breeding season in a cooperatively breeding bird
Authors: Tringali Angela , Sherer David L. , Cosgrove Jillian , Bowman Reed
Published: February 2020

In species with stage-structured populations selection pressures may vary between different life history stages and result in stage-specific behaviors. We use life history stage to explain variation in the pre and early breeding season social behavior of a cooperatively breeding bird, the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) using social network analysis. Life history stage explains much of the variation we observed in social network position. These differences are consistent with nearly 50 years of natural history observations and generally conform to a priori predictions about how individuals in different stages should behave to maximize their individual fitness. Where the results from the social network analysis differ from the a priori predictions suggest that social interactions between members of different groups are more important for breeders than previously thought. Our results emphasize the importance of accounting for life history stage in studies of individual social behavior.
The role of rarity as a surrogate of marine fish species representation
Authors: Albuquerque Fabio , Astudillo-Scalia Yaiyr
Published: February 2020

Because the distribution of most of the species is poorly known, conservationists use surrogates to help maximize the representation level of all species. Historically, species richness has been used to calculate the importance of priority areas for conservation, but several studies revealed sites with high species richness often fail to determine the smallest number of sites that will protect the highest number of species. Rarity, however, has played a prominent role in safeguarding planning units. While the performance of rarity has been previously assessed in terrestrial systems, we tested the hypothesis that rarity of a site can be used as a measure of the importance of a site to a conservation network in marine ecosystems. We used the presence data (at a 1-degree resolution) to calculate five rarity indices of fish diversity at a global extent and compared the results to those obtained by using species richness and site complementarity. Our objectives were to: (1) determine if rarity indices can be used as surrogates of fish biodiversity by representing the highest number of species in the smallest number of sites; and (2) determine if the effectiveness of these indices to represent fish biodiversity is impacted by the metric used to define rarity. Results indicate that rarity could be an effective surrogate for marine fishes, as most results showed a mean of 100% effectiveness. In the context of marine biodiversity conservation, results show that rarity indices could be considered affordable and feasible surrogates of species representation, with the most significant benefit to those areas of the world that are in most need to access alternative tools. Results also open a new area of collaboration between biogeography and marine conservation biology since planners can use biogeographical patterns of rarity to enhance the performance of the current protected area network.
Early changes in the urine proteome in a rat liver tumour model
Authors: Zhang Yameng , Gao Yufei , Gao Youhe
Published: February 2020

Background

Urine, as a potential biomarker source among body fluids, can accumulate many early changes in the body due to the lack of mechanisms to maintain a homeostatic state. This study aims to detect early changes in the urinary proteome in a rat liver tumour model.

Methods

The tumour model was established with the Walker-256 carcinosarcoma cell line (W256). Urinary proteins at days 3, 5, 7 and 11 were profiled by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Compared with controls, differential proteins were selected. Associations of differential proteins with cancer were retrieved.

Results

At days 3, 5, 7 and 11, five, fifteen, eleven and twelve differential proteins were identified, respectively. Some of the differential proteins were reported to be associated with liver cancer. This differential urinary protein pattern was different from the patterns in W256 subcutaneous, lung metastasis and intracerebral tumour models.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that (1) early changes in urinary proteins can be found in the rat liver tumour model; (2) urinary proteins can be used to differentiate the same tumour cells grown in different organs.
Prospective observational study of FKRP‐related limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy R9: A GRASP consortium study
Authors: Alfano Lindsay N. , James Meredith K. , Grosfjeld Petersen Kristine , Rudolf Karen , Vissing John , Augsburger Renee , Mozaffar Tahseen , Jones Aileen , Butler Amanda , Laubscher Katie M. , Mockler Shelley R. H. , Mathews Katherine D. , Iammarino Megan A. , Reash Natalie F. , Pietruszewski Lindsay , Lowes Linda P. , Strahler Talia , Wicklund Matthew , Hunn Stephanie , Weihl Conrad C. , Sasidharan Sandhya , Currence Melissa , Statland Jeffrey M. , Stinson Nikia , Holzer Megan , Leung Doris G. , Lott Donovan J. , Kang Peter B. , Holsten Scott , Desai Urvi , Johnson Nicholas E. ,   the GRASP‐LGMD Consortium
Published: December 2024

Objective

Limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy R9 (LGMDR9, formerly known as LGMD2I), caused by variants in the fukutin‐related protein (FKRP) gene leads to progressive muscle weakness of the shoulder and pelvic limb‐girdles and loss of motor function over time. Clinical management and future trial design are improved by determining which standardized clinical outcome assessments (COA) of function are most appropriate to capture disease presentation and progression, informing endpoint selection and enrollment criteria. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the cross‐sectional validity and reliability of clinical outcome assessments in patients with FKRP‐related LGMDR9 participating in the Genetic Resolution and Assessments Solving Phenotypes in LGMD (GRASP) natural history study.

Methods

Enrolled patients completed a battery of COA on two consecutive days, including the North Star Assessment for limb girdle‐type dystrophies (NSAD), the 100‐m timed test (100 m), and the Performance of Upper Limb 2.0 (PUL).

Results

A total of 101 patients with FKRP‐related LGMDR9 completed COA evaluations. All functional COA were highly and significantly correlated even across constructs, except for the 9‐hole peg test. Similarly, all tests demonstrated excellent test–retest reliability across 2‐day visits. The NSAD and PUL demonstrate robust psychometrics with good targeting, ordered response thresholds, fit and stability, and limited dependency of items across the scales.

Conclusions

This study has determined the suitability of several functional COA, cross‐sectionally, in LGMDR9 to inform future trial design and clinical care.
Skull defect – Frontotemporal dementia sagging brain syndrome
Authors: Schievink Wouter I. , Maya Marcel M. , Babadjouni Robin , Tay Angelique Sao‐Mai S. , Taché Rachelle B.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) sagging brain syndrome is a disabling condition. An underlying spinal Cerebrospinal fluid leak can be identified in only a minority of patients and the success rate of non‐directed treatments is low. Some of these patients have a remote history of craniectomy/cranioplasty and we report a positive response to custom implant cranioplasty revision many years after their initial cranioplasty.

Methods

We reviewed medical records and imaging studies of 61 consecutive patients with FTD sagging brain syndrome. A SIH Disability Assessment Score (SIHDAS) questionnaire was completed to assess the severity of the symptoms before and after custom implant cranioplasty. Pre‐ and post‐operative brain MRI was obtained to assess degree of brain sagging.

Results

Eight (13.1%) of the 61 patients had a history of craniectomy/cranioplasty 1.5–13.5 years prior to onset of symptoms of FTD sagging brain syndrome. The mean age of the one woman and seven men at the time of presentation to our medical center was 50 years (range, 26–68 years). None had sinking scalp flap syndrome. Prior treatments included epidural blood patching and dural reduction surgery. Custom cranial implant surgery was performed in four patients and resulted in prompt and remarkable improvement of symptoms in three patients (SIHDAS: very severe disability to no or mild disability) and mild improvement in one patient. Brain MRI showed improvement of brain sagging.

Interpretation

A disproportionate number of patients with FTD sagging brain syndrome have a remote history of supratentorial craniectomy/cranioplasty and revision cranioplasty should be considered.
Argatroban plus alteplase in posterior versus anterior circulation stroke
Authors: Cui Yu , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: December 2024

Objective

ARAIS trial failed to demonstrate benefit of argatroban as an adjunct to alteplase for stroke. Given differences between anterior circulation stroke (ACS) and posterior circulation stroke (PCS), we performed prespecified secondary analysis to investigate whether benefit of argatroban was different between ACS and PCS.

Methods

In secondary analysis of ARAIS, patients with definite stroke territories based on responsible vessel examination were classified into ACS and PCS. The primary outcome was a 90‐day excellent functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score of 0 to 1). The efficacy was compared between argatroban plus alteplase and alteplase alone.

Results

This study included 356 patients from the full analysis set of ARAIS trial: 283 in the ACS group and 73 in the PCS group. Compared with alteplase alone, a higher likelihood of 90‐day excellent functional outcome was associated with argatroban plus alteplase in PCS group (78.1% versus 61.0%; adjusted RD, 14.4%; 95% CI, 1.6% to 27.2%; p = 0.03), but similar in ACS group (61.7% versus 62.7%; adjusted RD, −2.4%; 95% CI, −10.1% to 5.2%; p = 0.54). After controlling unbalanced sample size bias by propensity score matching, significant interaction between efficacy and stroke territories was found (p = 0.01). The risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was higher following argatroban plus alteplase than alteplase alone in ACS group (p = 0.02).

Interpretation

Argatroban plus alteplase, compared with alteplase alone, was associated with improved functional outcomes in PCS. This study first demonstrated better benefits of argatroban plus alteplase in PCS, which deserves to be confirmed.
Employment Quality and Self‐Rated General Health in the United States: A 3‐Year Observational Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Vanderleyden Julie , Peckham Trevor , Balogh Rebeka , De Moortel Deborah
Published: December 2024

Background

The typological approach of the employment quality (EQ) framework offers a comprehensive lens for assessing the heterogeneity of employment experiences while concurrently acknowledging associated health risk factors. EQ incorporates multiple employment characteristics—such as working hours, wages and benefits, and union representation, among others—where standard employment relationship (SER)‐like (or high EQ) features are distinguished from nonstandard features (low EQ). Low EQ features are known to relate negatively to health outcomes. Addressing limitations from previous cross‐sectional studies, we contribute to longitudinal research on the link between EQ and self‐rated general health in the United States. Our objectives are: (1) to investigate the association between baseline EQ and poor self‐rated general health 3 years later; and (2) to examine the relation between poor self‐rated health and: (a) transitioning from low EQ to SER‐like employment (the scarring hypothesis); (b) transitioning from SER‐like employment to low EQ (the initial‐impact hypothesis); and (c) consistent low EQ status (for example, the dose–response hypothesis).

Methods

Using the American Working Conditions Survey (AWCS), baseline and follow‐up data on employees' self‐rated health was collected (N = 1109). An EQ typology with five categories was created via latent class cluster analysis: SER‐like, Instrumental, Precarious Unsustainable, Portfolio; and Precarious Intensive employment. Each EQ segment represents a unique combination of EQ features, with SER‐like and Portfolio employment reflecting overall high EQ, while Instrumental, Precarious Unsustainable, and Precarious Intensive reflect varieties of low EQ constellations. We used lagged Poisson regression to link baseline EQ to follow‐up self‐rated health and Poisson regression to analyze multiple EQ paths between baseline and follow‐up and their association with health.

Results

Precarious Unsustainable and Instrumental employment at baseline associated significantly with poor self‐rated general health at follow‐up. Transitioning from SER‐like employment to a low‐EQ segment was linked to an increased risk of poor self‐rated general health, confirming the initial‐impact hypothesis. No evidence was found for the scarring hypothesis. Consistent Instrumental and Precarious Unsustainable employment were both associated with poorer health, underlining the importance of the dose‐response effect.

Conclusions

Enhancing EQ is crucial for public health, particularly in the context of limited welfare provisions in the United States. Policy and legislative measures to improve EQ can promote better health outcomes and reduce health disparities within the working population.
Prevalence of Mild and Severe Cognitive Impairment in World Trade Center Exposed Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) and General Emergency Responders
Authors: Mann Frank D. , Mueller Alexandra K. , Zeig‐Owens Rachel , Choi Jaeun , Prezant David J. , Carr Melissa M. , Fels Alicia M. , Hennington Christina M. , Armstrong Megan P. , Barber Alissa , Fontana Ashley E. , Kroll Cassandra H. , Chow Kevin , Melendez Onix A. , Smith Abigail J. , Christodoulou Christopher , Luft Benjamin J. , Hall Charles B. , Clouston Sean A. P.
Published: December 2024

Background

The emergency personnel who responded to the World Trade Center (WTC) attacks endured severe occupational exposures, yet the prevalence of cognitive impairment remains unknown among WTC‐exposed‐FDNY‐responders. The present study screened for mild and severe cognitive impairment in WTC‐exposed FDNY responders using objective tests, compared prevalence rates to a cohort of non‐FDNY WTC‐exposed responders, and descriptively to meta‐analytic estimates of MCI from global, community, and clinical populations.

Methods

A sample of WTC‐exposed‐FDNY responders (n = 343) was recruited to complete an extensive battery of cognitive, psychological, and physical tests. The prevalences of domain‐specific impairments were estimated based on the results of norm‐referenced tests, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Jak/Bondi criteria, Petersen criteria, and the National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer's Association (NIA‐AA) criteria were used to diagnose MCI. NIA‐AA criteria were also used to diagnose severe cognitive impairment. Generalized linear models and propensity score matching were used to compare prevalence estimates of cognitive impairment to a large sample of WTC‐exposed‐non‐FDNY responders from the General Responder Cohort (GRC; n = 7102) who completed the MoCA during a similar time frame.

Result

Among FDNY responders under 65 years, the unadjusted prevalence of MCI varied from 52.57% to 60.32% depending on the operational definition of MCI, apart from using a conservative cut‐off applied to MoCA total scores (18 < MoCA < 23), which yielded a markedly lower crude prevalence (24.31%) compared to alternative criteria. Using propensity score matching, the prevalence of MCI was significantly higher among WTC‐exposed FDNY responders, compared to WTC‐exposed GRC responders (adjusted RR = 1.13 (CI 95% = 1.07–1.20, p < 0.001), and descriptively higher than meta‐analytic estimates from different global, community, and clinical populations. Following NIA‐AA diagnostic guidelines, 4.96% of WTC‐exposed‐FDNY‐responders met the criteria for severe impairments (95% CI = 2.91–7.82), a prevalence that remained largely unchanged after excluding responders over the age of 65 years.

Discussion

There is a high prevalence of mild and severe cognitive impairment among WTC‐responders, highlighting the putative role of occupational, environmental, and disaster‐related exposures in the etiology of accelerated cognitive decline.
Workplace Injury and Death: A National Overview of Changing Trends by Sex, United States 1998–2022
Authors: Hendricks Kitty J. , Hendricks Scott A. , Marsh Suzanne M.
Published: December 2024

Women represent a substantial portion of the US workforce. However, injury and fatality rates for female workers have, historically, remained lower than rates for male workers. Fatal occupational data from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI) and nonfatal injury data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System—Occupational Supplement (NEISS‐Work) for the years 1998–2022 were examined to produce rate ratios of male to female fatal and nonfatal occupational injury rates for all workers in the United States. Auto‐regressive linear models were developed to analyze rate ratios by sex for fatal and nonfatal occupational injuries by age group, injury event, and select industries to determine if female occupational fatal and nonfatal injury rates were following trends comparable to male rates. Over the 25‐year study period, male injury and fatality rates were consistently higher than females. Occupational fatality rates for males were more than nine times higher than female rates, and for nonfatal occupational injuries, male rates were 1.4 times higher than female rates. These analyses indicate that the differences in nonfatal injury rates by sex may be attenuating, however, the large gap by sex in workplace fatalities has remained unchanged. Occupational safety and health research with a more specific focus on these sex differences is needed to gain a clearer understanding of how sex differences affect hiring, job training, task assignment and completion, and injury risk, to identify areas where prevention efforts could be most successful.
Building Sustainable Supply Chain Resilience: Insights From a Mixed‐Method Study
Authors: Bag Surajit , Rahman Muhammad Sabbir , Chiarini Andrea
Published: December 2024

Growing concerns regarding climate change and extreme weather events have spurred heightened interest among supply chain professionals, researchers, and policymakers, leading to increased focus on supply chain resilience. This study aims to develop a model specifically geared toward enhancing supply chain endurance and contribute to the ongoing debate on supply chain resilience. Employing a mixed‐method approach, the research initially utilizes the qualitative methodology to delineate the facets of supply chain endurance. Subsequently, through a multiple cross‐sectional survey design, the study empirically examines the relationship between supply chain endurance, a firm's supply chain resilience, and community resilience. The results engender discussions on fortifying firms' supply chain endurance by cultivating adaptive leadership, adaptability, visibility, flexibility, collaboration, redundancy, and conditioning. This research underscores the significance of nurturing supply chain endurance capabilities in bolstering a firm's sustainable supply chain resilience and the resilience of the broader community.