bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Convective Rainfall Rate from Cloud Physical Properties Algorithm for Meteosat Second Generation Satellites: Microphysical Basis and Intercomparisons using an Object-Based Method
Authors: Tapiador Francisco J. , Marcos Cecilia , Sancho Juan Manuel
Published: January 2019

The Convective Rainfall Rate from Cloud Physical Properties (CRPh) for Meteosat Second Generation Satellites is a day-only precipitation algorithm developed at the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) for EUMETSAT’ Satellite Application Facility in support to Nowcasting and Very Short Range Forecasting (NWC SAF). It is therefore mainly intended to provide input for monitoring and near-real-time forecasts for the next few hours. This paper critically discusses the theoretical basis of the algorithm with special emphasis in the empirical values and assumptions in the microphysics of precipitation and compares the performances of the CRPh with its antecessor, the Convective Rainfall Rate algorithm (CRR), using an object-based method. The analyses show that AEMET’s CRPh is physically consistent and that outperforms the CRR. The applicability of the algorithm for nowcasting and the challenges to evolve the product to an all-day algorithm are also presented.
Moderating Variables of Entrepreneurial Interest among Spanish Youth
Authors: Escolar-Llamazares Maria-Camino , Luis-Rico Isabel , De la Torre-Cruz Tamara , Herrero-Cosio Álvaro , Palmero-Cámara Carmen , Jiménez-Eguizabal Alfredo
Published: January 2019

Background: Despite the abundant scientific literature on entrepreneurship, there is still only limited information on young students’ entrepreneurial intentions. The reasons may be generally found in the different conceptual approaches to entrepreneurial intention and particularly in the variables that regulate and act as antecedents to such intentions. This bias has generated different lines of investigation into the factors relating to entrepreneurial intention among students: one is centered on the variables that influence entrepreneurial intention, in particular, relational, educational, and psychological variables; and the other is centered on the antecedents of entrepreneurial intention, among which is entrepreneurial interest. Methods: In the present paper, we seek to analyze the relationship between the entrepreneurial interest of Spanish youth and a set of socio-educational, psychological, and health-related variables using principal component analysis. A previously validated ad hoc questionnaire was administered to 1764 students (15–18 years old). Results: Notably, few Spanish youth expressed significantly high entrepreneurial interest; those who did were mostly men with a family tradition of entrepreneurial parents, who held high perceptions of their health and quality of life and considered it important in business to detect opportunities beforehand and to create employment. Conclusions: Their principal motives were to improve their professional development, to put their ideas into practice, and to achieve economic independence. This paper proposes the early detection of entrepreneurial interests in young people in order to reinforce these interests as potential long-term initiatives.
New Generation of Uncertainty Analysis in Basin Modeling
Authors: Hacquard Pierre
Published: January 2019

Basin modelling encompasses a broad range of related geological disciplines used to represent and describe how sedimentary basins were formed and evolved over time. It is often employed, but not solely, to appraise their potential for hydrocarbons exploration and production. Regarding petroleum systems, discerning and possessing the ability to precisely quantify the uncertainties associated to the generation and accumulation of oil and gas are the keys to deliver relevant and exhaustive analysis since no model or interpretation can at present perfectly mirror reality.

To achieve this, classical techniques, as Monte Carlo, rely on statistical concepts necessiting important computing power as they require thousands of simulations. Modern optimized algorithms combining statistical concepts such as Latin Hypercube Sampling and machine learning methods can significantly downplay the number of simulations and thus the computing time required to generate realistic alternative probabilistic outcomes. They turn out to be particularly effective when mastered but require expertise across numerous scientific fields further to an extensive basin modelling experience. Thence, they remain used by a limited community of experts, often limited to R&D centers, rather than being widely adopted in exploration practices. In addition, plenty of these experts will retire in the coming years without necessarily being able to pass the torch and too few geoscientists are adequately trained to master these methods, facing the industry with a dilemma.

In this paper, the objective is to present an innovative workflow for risk and uncertainty analysis in basin modelling. By using already developed advanced statistics optimization approaches and combining it with a new parametrization procedure based on well-known geological concepts instead of independent variables, this new workflow is designed to reach a wider and less experienced community while downsizing computing time and remaining agile and pertinent.

In illustration of the general parametrization procedure, three new specific methodologies to assess the richness, the reactivity and the thickness of a source-rock are described following the philosophy of the workflow. They have been tested on a real case study over the Levantine Basin and present promising results as they required 50 times fewer simulations than Monte Carlo approach to provide results coherent with expected geological contexts and physical behaviors of the basin.
Postoperative Analgesia for Pediatric Craniotomy Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Xing Fei , An LiXin , Xue FuShan , Zhao ChunMei , Bai YaFan
Published: January 2019

Background: Pain is often observed in pediatric patients after craniotomy procedures, which could lead to some serious postoperative complications. However, the optimal formula for postoperative analgesia for pediatric neurosurgery has not been well established. This study aimed to explore the optimal options and formulas for postoperative analgesia in pediatric neurosurgery.
Methods: Three hundred and twenty patients aged 1 to 12-years old who underwent craniotomy were randomly assigned to receive 4 different regimens of patient-controlled analgesia (PCIA or NCIA). Postoperative pain scores at different time point after surgery and analgesia-related complication were recorded respectively. Comparative analysis was performed between the four groups.
Results: In all groups, significantly lower pain scores were observed at one to 8 hours in the morphine group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in pain scores between the fentanyl and tramadol groups (P>0.05), both of which had lower pain scores than the placebo group (P<0.05). However, a higher incidence of nausea and vomiting occurred in the tramadol group during the 48 hours of NCIA usage after operation (P=0.020). Much more rescue medicines including ibuprofen and morphine were used in control group (CI=0.000-0.019). No consciousness change and respiratory depression was observed in all groups. There were 56 children experienced moderate-severe pain(17.5%), younger children (OR=1.161, 1.027-1.312, P=0.017), occipital craniotomy (OR=0.374, 0.155-0.905, P=0.029), morphine treatment, were relevant factors of moderate-severe pain in pediatric patients.
Conclusions: Compared with other analgesic projects, PCIA or NCIA analgesia with morphine appears to be the safest and most effective postoperative analgesia program for pediatric patients who underwent neurosurgical operations.
Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. No: ChiCTR-IOC-15007676. Prospective registration. http://www.chictr.org.cn.
Keywords: Pain, Postoperative, Child, Craniotomy
Effects of pomegranate juice on cardiometabolic risk factors and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in hemodialysis patients, a crossover controlled trial
Authors: Boldaji Reza Barati , Akhlaghi Masoumeh , Sagheb Mohammad Mehdi , Esmaeilinezhad Zahra
Published: January 2019

Background: Pomegranate has antioxidant, cardioprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. We questioned if pomegranate juice (PJ) benefits lipid profile and oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers of hemodialysis patients.
Methods: The study had a crossover design. Hemodialysis patients (n=41) were divided into two groups: PJ-treated group who received 100 ml natural PJ immediately after their dialysis session three times a week and the control group who received the usual care. After 8 weeks, a 4-week washout period was established and afterwards the role of the groups was exchanged. Lipid profile, blood pressure, and oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers were measured before and after each sequence. Comparisons between the two conditions were performed by ANCOVA with adjustments for potential confounders.
Results: Based on results of intention-to-treat analysis, triglycerides were decreased in PJ condition and increased in the control. Conversely, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol was increased in PJ and decreased in control. There was a significant between-condition difference for both triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol (P<0.001). Total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol did not significantly change in either condition. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure significantly decreased in PJ condition and caused a significant difference between two conditions (P<0.001). Total antioxidant capacity increased in PJ condition (P<0.001) and decreased in control (P<0.001). Conversely, malondialdehyde and interleukin-6 decreased in PJ (P<0.001) and increased in the control (P≤0.001). The changes of these biomarkers were significantly different between two conditions.
Conclusions: In conclusion, 8-week PJ consumption showed beneficial effects on blood pressure, serum triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, oxidative stress, and inflammation in hemodialysis patients. The trial was registered at Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (ID number: IRCT 2016070428797N1).
Keywords: Pomegranate, hemodialysis, hypertension, oxidative stress, inflammation, lipid profile.
Relationship between financial performances and marketing practices in the banking sector of Jordan
Authors: Khalil Shami Majed
Published: January 2019

The study aims at analyzing the relationship between financial performances and marketing practices in the banking sector of Jordan. A questionnaire was distributed to 45 top, middle, and branch level managers of 15 banks. The financial data was obtained from the financial statements and annual reports of the banks during the five-year period between 2011 and 2015. The three categories of participants, who were recruited, were top-level managers, middle-level managers and branch-level managers from 17 banks of Jordan. No two means were found to differ significantly at 0.05 level by means of Scheffe test. The results revealed that the more positive the perception was of the managers regarding the position of their banks in the market, the more they were inclined to choose an accurate target market in accomplishing their marketing objectives. Therefore, it has been concluded that when the financial needs of the customers were similar, the change in the loan-to-deposit ratio was significantly positive.
DESTINAÇÃO DE RESÍDUOS SÓLIDOS DE UMA COMUNIDADE NA ZONA RURAL DE XAPURI - AC
Authors: Teixeira Naiara dos Santos , Fernandes Alana Chocorosqui
Published: January 2019

As pequenas comunidades na zona rural têm acompanhado a crescente necessidade de bens industrializados e constantes inovações, comuns nos centros urbanos, passando a consumir para sua satisfação e bem-estar, o que tem contribuído para o aumento do consumo e consequente aumento de resíduo sólido descartado. Diante desse problema, o objetivo desse trabalho foi identificar o destino dos resíduos sólidos de uma comunidade rural do município de Xapuri. O trabalho foi realizado na comunidade rural Baixa Funda, no Seringal Floresta, em Xapuri - AC. Das 22 famílias da comunidade, 50% foram amostradas, nos dias 10 e 11 de dezembro de 2014. Foram aplicados questionários elaborados com base nos pressupostos teóricos sobre o tema de estudo, com perguntas objetivas. Dos entrevistados, 75% relataram que queimam o resíduo em sua propriedade. Outra prática comum é a de depositar o resíduo no solo, seja ele enterrado (17%) ou a céu aberto (8%). Nessa comunidade, todos os entrevistados não possuem acesso à coleta de lixo e não praticam nenhum tipo de separação do resíduo. Em relação à educação ambiental na comunidade, foi possível constatar que a maioria dos moradores não teve acesso a esse conhecimento. Apesar disso, a comunidade, de modo geral, tem a consciência de descartar seus resíduos em regiões longe de cursos d’água ou áreas de floresta. A escola foi reconhecida como espaço de divulgação do conhecimento e pode ser importante ferramenta na introdução de novas práticas que diminuam os impactos ao meio ambiente e garantam uma relação harmoniosa entre este e a comunidade ali residente.
Laparoscopic Resection of An Extensive Tuboovarian Abscess in A Mechanical Valve Replacement Woman
Authors: Wasinghon Phornsawan , Huang Kuan-Gen
Published: January 2019

The case is a 44-year-old-female who presented with right lower abdominal pain without fever or leukocytosis. She had previous mechanical valve replacement with taking warfarin for last ten months from the diagnoses of infective endocarditis. The ultrasonography showed bilateral complex ovarian mass. At laparoscopy, the patient had a right tubo-ovarian abscess and a left mature teratoma with extensive adhesions to the rectum. A case illustrates an uncommon premenopausal age with right tuboovarian abscess and left mature teratoma. The laparoscopic surgery is an excellent benefit for quicker recovery time, smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, and especially of a few infections that will affect to underlying disease of the patient.
The Biological Significance of Oxidative Stress, Effects of Fruits as Natural Edible Antioxidants
Authors: Rosado-Pérez Juana , Aguiñiga-Sánchez Itzen , Arista-Ugalde Taide L. , Santiago-Osorio Edelmiro , Mendoza-Núñez Víctor M.
Published: January 2019

Background:

Oxidative stress (OxS) is a biochemical process characterized by an imbalance between
the production of reactive species (RS) and antioxidants in favor of the former that subsequently induces the
oxidative damage of biomolecules and alters cellular physiology. OxS exerts diverse effects and is associated
with the pathophysiology of more than 100 diseases, as well as with the aging process. OxS also plays a role in
maintaining the homeostasis of both animal and plant organisms. We analyze the role and mechanisms of the
generation of RS and antioxidants both under physiological conditions and during aging and pathological processes.
Likewise, the potential of antioxidant agents from the diet is considered, specifically fruits such as chayote.
We focus on naringenin, a flavonoid with a high antioxidant capacity.

Method:

We conducted a literature review to present the state of the art of knowledge about the biological significance
of oxidative stress and the effect of antioxidants in some edible fruits.

Conclusions:

Evidence supports the existence of RS, their physiological roles as well its harmful effects when
oxidative stress occurs. In this sense, given the association of oxidative stress with diseases and aging the fruits
rich in antioxidants are a feasible alternative to restore de redox balance if necessary.
Naturally Occurring Plectranthus-derived Diterpenes with Antitumoral Activities
Authors: Garcia Catarina , Teodósio Catarina , Oliveira Carolina , Oliveira Cláudia , Díaz-Lanza Ana , Reis Catarina , Duarte Noélia , Rijo Patrícia
Published: January 2019

The study of natural sources such as plants, microorganisms and marine organisms has developed
interest among the scientific community in recent years for their extensive and diverse chemical composition and
consequent biological potential. The search for antitumor compounds is among the lead causes that justify phytochemical
studies. Although some natural products have served as FDA approved chemotherapeutic agents, there
is still a demand for the search of compounds with those characteristics.

The Plectranthus genus has long been used in traditional medicine, and scientific studies have already proven its
undeniable value as a source of bioactive compounds. Diterpenes are the most prominent biologically active
group of secondary metabolites present in this genus. In particular, abietane diterpenes have long been studied for
their biological activities, namely their anti-tumoral potential. In this review, abietane diterpenes isolated from
Plectranthus genus with antiproliferative, antitumoral or cytotoxic potential are reported. In addition, a correlation
between this subclass of diterpenes with their mechanisms of cell death has been discussed.
HLAs in Autoimmune Diseases: Dependable Diagnostic Biomarkers?
Authors: Rajaei Elham , Jalali Mohammad Taha , Shahrabi Saeid , Asnafi Ali Amin , Pezeshki Seyed Mohammad Sadegh
Published: January 2019

Background:

The process of antigen presentation to immune cells is an undeniable contributor
to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Different studies have indicated several factors
that are related to autoimmunity. Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLAs) are among such factors,
which have a key role in autoimmunity because of their involvement in antigen presentation process.

Methods:

Relevant English language literature was searched and retrieved from Google Scholar
search engine and PubMed database (1996-2018). The following keywords were used: "Human
leukocyte antigen", "Behcet’s syndrome", "Rheumatoid arthritis", "Systemic lupus erythematosus",
"Type 1 diabetes", "Celiac Disease" and "Autoimmunity".

Results:

There is a strong association between HLA alleles and autoimmune diseases. For instance,
HLA-B alleles and Behcet’s syndrome are strongly correlated, and systemic lupus erythematosus
and Type 1 diabetes are related to HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1, respectively.

Conclusion:

Association between numerous HLA alleles and autoimmune diseases may justify and
rationalize their use as biomarkers as well as possible diagnostic laboratory parameters.
RETRACTED: Human Suicide, Modern Diagnosis Assistance and Magic Bullet Discovery
Authors: Lu Da-Yong , Zhu Peng-Peng , Wu Hong-Ying , Xu Bin , Ding Jian , Lu Ting-Ren
Published: January 2019

The article entitled “Human Suicide, Modern Diagnosis Assistance and Magic Bullet Discovery”, by Da-Yong Lu, Peng-Peng Zhu, Hong-Ying Wu, Nagendra Sastry Yarla, Bin Xu, Jian Ding, Ajit Varki and Ting-Ren Lu, has been retracted on the request of one co-authors, Dr. Ajit Varki and Dr. Nagendra Sastry Yarla available at: Cent Nerv Syst Agents Med Chem 2019; 19(1): 15-23. http://www.eurekaselect.com/169003/article.

The Corresponding Author Dr. Da-Yong Lu has included the names of the co-authors, Dr. Ajit Varki and Dr. Nagendra
Sastry Yarla without their consent and the manuscript has been published in the journal, Central Nervous System Agents in
Medicinal Chemistry (CNSAMC). Kindly see Bentham Science Policy on Article retraction at the link given below:

(https://benthamscience.com/journals/central-nervous-system-agents-in-medicinal-chemistry/author-guidelines/)

Submission of a manuscript to the respective journals implies that all authors have read and agreed to the content of the Copyright Letter or the Terms and Conditions. As such, this article represents a severe abuse of the scientific publishing sys-tem. Bentham Science Publishers takes a very strong view on this matter and apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may cause.
Motion Tracking for Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment of Upper Limb Movements Following Acromioclavicular Joint Ligament Reconstruction: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mazzoleni Stefano , Battini Elena , Galgani Matteo , Tenucci Miria , Dario Paolo , Calvosa Giuseppe
Published: January 2019

Background:

Technological tools as robotic devices and wearable sensors can provide accurate and repeatable measurements of physical variables (e.g., position, velocities, forces) which can be used for quantitative and qualitative assessment of movement analysis and upper limb motor performance.

Objective:

The study aims to propose a quantitative and qualitative assessment of upper limb motor performance by means of seven kinematic parameters recorded by a passive mechatronic device in patients who underwent a surgical procedure for ligament reconstruction following acromioclavicular joint dislocation.

Method:

Five patients (mean age: 40 ± 12 years) with acromioclavicular joint dislocation were enrolled.

A passive end-effector mechatronic device characterized by 7 degrees of freedom and designed for the assessment of upper limb motor performance - especially for measuring the hand position in three-dimensional space - was used.

The Constant-Murley score and seven kinematic parameters were used as clinical outcome measure and quantitative and qualitative assessment, respectively.

Results:

The preliminary results of this study show no significant differences between the impaired arm and unimpaired arm: the end-effector passive mechatronic device used in this study is able to provide an overall assessment of the upper limb motor performance following shoulder impairment.

Conclusion:

The motion tracker can be easily used as effective tool for quantitative and qualitative assessment of upper limb motor performance, even several years after the surgical operation.
Influence of Member Length Imperfection on the Capacity of Spatial Structures
Authors: Gordini Mehrdad , Habibi Mohammad R. , Tavana Mohammad H. , Amiri Moslem , Roudsari Mehrzad T.
Published: January 2019

Introduction:

Load bearing capacity of Double Layer Grid Spatial Trusses (DLGST) majorly depend on the structures' imperfections. It is important to analyze the systems with consideration of the influences of uncertainties to ensure the safety of DLGST.

Methods:

The variation of imperfect members’ positions and initial size of length imperfections (being longer or shorter than the ideal size) were selected as the parameters of the current research. Member length imperfections for both long and short members were randomly taken into account according to the randomly generated numbers. These random numbers were generated using a normal distribution.

Results and Conclusion:

The effect of imperfection is investigated by repeating the analyses simulations on structures with a stochastic dispersion of the imperfect member position and initial length imperfection. It has been demonstrated that the length imperfections might significantly decrease safety of the structure and also shown that the position of imperfect members has effect on the structural performance.
Comparison Between 18F-Dopa and 18F-Fet PET/CT in Patients with Suspicious Recurrent High Grade Glioma: A Literature Review and Our Experience
Authors: Evangelista Laura , Cuppari Lea , Bellu Luisa , Bertin Daniele , Caccese Mario , Reccia Pasquale , Zagonel Vittorina , Lombardi Giuseppe
Published: January 2019

Purpose:

The aims of the present study were to: 1- critically assess the utility of L-3,4-
dihydroxy-6-18Ffluoro-phenyl-alanine (18F-DOPA) and O-(2-18F-fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine (18F-FET)
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)/Computed Tomography (CT) in patients with high grade glioma
(HGG) and 2- describe the results of 18F-DOPA and 18F-FET PET/CT in a case series of patients with
recurrent HGG.

Methods:

We searched for studies using the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus.
The search terms were: glioma OR brain neoplasm and DOPA OR DOPA PET OR DOPA PET/CT and
FET OR FET PET OR FET PET/CT. From a mono-institutional database, we retrospectively analyzed
the 18F-DOPA and 18F-FET PET/CT of 29 patients (age: 56 ± 12 years) with suspicious for recurrent
HGG. All patients underwent 18F-DOPA or 18F-FET PET/CT for a multidisciplinary decision. The final
definition of recurrence was made by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and/or multidisciplinary decision,
mainly based on the clinical data.

Results:

Fifty-one articles were found, of which 49 were discarded, therefore 2 studies were finally
selected. In both the studies, 18F-DOPA and 18F-FET as exchangeable in clinical practice particularly for
HGG patients. From our institutional experience, in 29 patients, we found that sensitivity, specificity
and accuracy of 18F-DOPA PET/CT in HGG were 100% (95% confidence interval- 95%CI - 81-100%),
63% (95%CI: 39-82%) and 62% (95%CI: 39-81%), respectively. 18F-FET PET/CT was true positive in
4 and true negative in 4 patients. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy for 18F-FET PET/CT in HGG
were 100%.

Conclusion:

18F-DOPA and 18F-FET PET/CT have a similar diagnostic accuracy in patients with recurrent
HGG. However, 18F-DOPA PET/CT could be affected by inflammation conditions (false positive)
that can alter the final results. Large comparative trials are warranted in order to better understand the
utility of 18F-DOPA or 18F-FET PET/CT in patients with HGG.
Bingöl İlinde 2016 Yılına ait Bebek Ölümleri ve Nedenlerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: Mete BURAK , Yıldız SERKAN , Söyiler VEDAT , Doğan ESRA , Durmuş HASAN , Timur AHMET
Published: January 2019

Giriş: Toplumsal gelişmişlik ile bebek ölümleri arasında birneden sonuç ilişkisi vardır, gelişmişlik arttıkça bebek ölümleriazalmaktadır. Bu çalışma ili Bingöl ilindeki 2016 yılında meydanagelen bebek ölümlerinin hızları, nedenleri ve ilişkili olabilecekfaktörlerin incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır.Metot: Çalışma 2016 yılında Bingöl ilinde meydana gelen 99bebek ölümünün tamamının dosyalar üzerinde incelemesi ileyapılmıştır. Bebek ölümleri ile ilgili bilgiler dosya taraması ileelde edilmiştir. Verilerin analizinde SPSS 22 kullanılmıştır.Verilerin analizinde Ki-kare testi, kullanılmıştır. p<0.05 anlamlıolarak kabul edilmiştir.Bulgular: Bingöl ili 2016 yılında toplam 5485 canlı doğumolmuştur ve 99 bebek ölümü meydana gelmiştir. Bebek ölümhızı binde 18’dir, ölümlerin çoğu erken neonatal dönemdemeydana gelmiştir. Prematürite ve konjenital anomaliler en sıkölüm nedenleridir. Ölen bebeklerin annelerinde eğitim seviyesidüşük, akraba evliliğinin yaygın olduğu görülmüştür.Sonuç: Kadınların eğitim seviyesi yükseltilmeli, gebeliköncesinde aile danışmanlığı hizmetleri etkin biçimde verilmeli,antenatal bakım ve izlemlerin sayısı artırılmalı, postnatal dönembakım hizmetleri geliştirilmelidir.
Analytical support to organization system of children transportation in long-distance trains
Authors: Komissarov A. V. , Makarova E. A. , Muktepavel S. V. , Nestrakhov I. A. , Spesivtseva I. N.
Published: January 2019

Abstract. In modern conditions for passenger complex of Russian Railways, important tasks include improvement of transportation quality, maintenance of stable positions in a competitive environment and increasing demand. To address these issues, a customer-oriented approach is applied based on the segmentation of transport market in relation to certain groups of passengers. Performance of children's transportation is of particular relevance and social significance. Railways are charged with a huge range of work, including sale of travel documents, preparation and equipping of passenger cars, provision of food during the trip, instructing workers, ensuring security during the embarkation/disembarkation of passengers, etc. Children can travel as individually with accompanying persons and as part of organized groups. Processes of planning, organizing, monitoring the transportation of this age category of passengers are associated with the analysis of a large amount of reference and regulatory and reporting documentation. On the basis of the ACS “Express-3”, a program-analytical complex “Children's transportation” was developed and implemented, which allows to receive data at the regional and network levels in the operational (train number, day) and statistical (period of dates, month) modes. This information technology provides analytical support for key transportation management functions — planning, control, analysis. Planning of transportation of organized children's groups is carried out on the basis of a study of the dynamics of data on the number of applications received and travel documents issued, determining the routes of trains, periods of the highest intensity of passenger traffic, obtaining information about the stations of embarkation and disembarkation. To perform the functions of monitoring the embarkation and disembarkation at the destination station of groups of children, the employees involved receive information on the train number, car number, date and time of arrival, number of children in the group using the Children's Transportation software. For the analysis of transportation of children's age categories, a functional has been developed that ensures the construction of aggregated reporting based on trains data that completed the trip. Users receive reporting information in table form, including “strict” (designed according to the approved layout) and “flexible” forms (construction is performed according to specified parameters). Software and analytical complex is designed for managers and specialists of the passenger unit of the JSC “Russian Railways”, has a modular principle of increasing functionality and provides a solution to current problems in the system of organizing children's transport service.
Evaluación del aceite esencial de cilantro (Coriandrum sativum L.) sobre el ácaro rojo de aves Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer, 1778) (Acari: Dermanyssidae) bajo condiciones de laboratorio
Authors: Torres-Cabra Eneida , Lagos-López Mayer Isnardo
Published: January 2019

El ácaro rojo Dermanyssus gallinae afecta las producciones avícolas, principalmente de ponedoras, al alimentarse de su sangre. Su control se realiza a través de acaricidas químicos, hacia los cuales aumenta su resistencia. Se evaluó la actividad acaricida de aceite esencial (ae) de cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) a concentraciones de 1, 2 y 3 mg/cm2 a través de bioensayos por contacto sobre adultos de D. gallinae y se comparó con un acaricida químico (Neguvón®). Los ácaros fueron colectados de aves (Gallus gallus L.) de traspatio. Se realizaron seis repeticiones por tratamiento. Estadísticamente, se determinaron los porcentajes de mortalidad y se calculó el anova. Se estableció el porcentaje de la actividad letal. Se estimó la CL50 y el TL50. El ae de cilantro causó el 100 % de mortalidad sobre la población de D. gallinae a los 25 min después del contacto con una concentración de 2 y 3 mg/cm2 y a los 30 min con una concentración de 1 mg/cm2. La CL50 del ae de cilantro fue de 1,3 mg /cm2, con un TL50 de 13 min sobre la población de D. gallinae. Se sugiere el aceite esencial de cilantro C. sativum como una alternativa a los acaricidas químicos para el control del ácaro rojo de aves D. gallinae.
Additional Telemedicine Rounds as a Successful Performance-Improvement Strategy for Sepsis Management: Observational Multicenter Study (Preprint)
Authors: Deisz Robert , Rademacher Susanne , Gilger Katrin , Jegen Rudolf , Sauerzapfe Barbara , Fitzner Christina , Stoppe Christian , Benstoem Carina , Marx Gernot
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Sepsis is a major health care problem with high morbidity and mortality rates and affects millions of patients. Telemedicine, defined as the exchange of medical information via electronic communication, improves the outcome of patients with sepsis and decreases the mortality rate and length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU). Additional telemedicine rounds could be an effective component of performance-improvement programs for sepsis, especially in underserved rural areas and hospitals without ready access to critical care physicians.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to evaluate the impact of additional daily telemedicine rounds on adherence to sepsis bundles. We hypothesized that additional telemedicine support may increase adherence to sepsis guidelines and improve the detection rates of sepsis and septic shock.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, observational, multicenter study between January 2014 and July 2015 with one tele-ICU center and three ICUs in Germany. We implemented telemedicine as part of standard care and collected data continuously during the study. During the daily telemedicine rounds, routine screening for sepsis was conducted and adherence to the Surviving Sepsis Campaign’s 3-hour and 6-hour sepsis bundles were evaluated.

RESULTS

In total, 1168 patients were included in this study, of which 196 were positive for severe sepsis and septic shock. We found that additional telemedicine rounds improved adherence to the 3-hour (Quarter 1, 35% vs Quarter 6, 76.2%; P=.01) and 6-hour (Quarter 1, 50% vs Quarter 6, 95.2%; P=.001) sepsis bundles. In addition, we noted an increase in adherence to the item “Administration of fluids when hypotension” (Quarter 1, 80% vs Quarter 6, 100%; P=.049) of the 3-hour bundle and the item “Remeasurement of lactate” (Quarter 1, 65% vs Quarter 6, 100%, P=.003) of the 6-hour bundle. The ICU length of stay after diagnosis of severe sepsis and septic shock remained unchanged over the observation period. Due to a higher number of patients with sepsis in Quarter 5 (N=60) than in other quarters, we observed stronger effects of the additional rounds on mortality in this quarter (Quarter 1, 50% vs Quarter 5, 23.33%, P=.046).

CONCLUSIONS

Additional telemedicine rounds are an effective component of and should be included in performance-improvement programs for sepsis management.
Issues of geriatric otolaryngologic emergency have not been widely applied despite increase in geriatric population. (Preprint)
Authors: Adegbiji Waheed Atilade , Aremu Shuaib Kayode , Aluko AbdulAkeem Adebayo
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Issues of geriatric otolaryngologic emergency have not been widely applied despite increase in geriatric population.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed at determining prevalence, sociodemographic features, aetiology, clinical features, Complications and sources ofreferral of geriatric otorhinolaryngological, head and neck emergency in our center.

METHODS

This was a prospective hospital based study of geriatric otorhinolaryngology emergency in the Ear, Nose and Throat Department of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital. The study was carried out between October 2016 and September 2018.
Data were obtained by using pretested interviewers questionnaire.All data were collated and analyzed using SPSS version 18.0. The data were expressed by frequency table, percentage, bar charts and pie charts.

RESULTS

Geriatric otorhinolaryngology, head and neck emergency accounted for 5.3%.
Major prevalence age group was 43.9% in the age group (60-64).
There were 38.6% males with male to female ratio of 1:1.5.
The main aetiology of geriatric otorhinolaryngology emergency was 29.5% trauma/road traffic accident/foreign body impaction and 25.8% tumour.
Main anatomical distribution of geriatric otorhinolaryngology emergency were 38.6% throat diseases and 31.1% ear diseases.
The most frequent clinical features were pain in 27.3%, hearing loss in 21.2%, tinnitus in 15.9%, bleeding in 14.4%, difficulty breathing in 12.9% and discharge in 11.4%.
Common diagnosis in this study were 15.9% sinonasal tumour, 14.4% upper aerodigestive foreign body impaction, 10.6% earwax impaction and 19.8% otitis externa.
Acute presentation (<13 weeks) occurred in 1 week in 74.2% and 2-13 weeks In 19.7%. Commonest time of presentation was daytime in 65.9%. Major sources of referral were 43.2% general practitioner and 31.1% casualty officers.
Presentation of geriatric otorhinolaryngology emergency were mainly ear, nose and throat clinic in 59.8% with accident and emergency in 28.8%.
Commonest associated comorbid illnesses among the geriatric patients were 18.2% hypertension, 14.4% arthritis and 9.8% diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSIONS

Geriatric otorhinolaryngological emergency are common pathology with associated with comorbid illnesses. Detailed clinical assessment are mandatory for effective management outcome.
Understanding and promoting students’ well-being and performance in university studies – effects of a 7-week Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based course (Preprint)
Authors: Asikainen Henna , Katajavuori Nina , Kaipainen Kirsikka
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Internationally there have been many studies showing that the number of university students suffering from mental illness is growing and this problem should be addressed

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine 41 pharmacy students’ experiences of a small Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) -based intervention that was implemented as a 7-week course with weekly online modules.

METHODS

Students’ well-being, experiences of stress, organised studying and psychological flexibility were measured with questionnaires at the beginning and end of the course. Students’ experiences of the effectiveness of the course and were analysed from open-ended responses and a reflective journal.

RESULTS

The results show that students’ well-being and ability to manage time and effort increased during the course(p≤0.003). In their reflective journals, students described how their ability to manage stress in their studies, cope with their thoughts and feelings, focus on the things that are more important to them, and manage their time in studying and their well-being had improved.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that it is possible to foster students’ well-being in their studies. More research is needed to identify the long-lasting effects of these kind of interventions.
Integration of Genetic Testing and Pathology for the Diagnosis of Adults with FSGS
Authors: Yao Tony , Udwan Khalil , John Rohan , Rana Akanchaya , Haghighi Amirreza , Xu Lizhen , Hack Saidah , Reich Heather N. , Hladunewich Michelle Adrienne , Cattran Daniel C. , Paterson Andrew D. , Pei York , Barua Moumita
Published: January 2019

Background and objectives

FSGS and nephrotic syndrome studies have shown that single gene causes are more likely to be found in pediatric cases than adults. Consequently, many studies have examined limited gene panels in largely pediatric cohorts.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Whole-exome sequencing was performed in adults with FSGS diagnosed between 1976 and 2017 in the Toronto GN Registry. An expanded panel of 109 genes linked to FSGS, glomerular basement membrane abnormalities, as well as causes of pediatric ESKD including congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) and nephronophthisis, were examined.

Results

The cohort was composed of 193 individuals from 179 families. Nearly half (49%) developed ESKD at a mean age of 47±17 years. The genetic diagnostic rate was 11%. Of definitely pathogenic variants, 55% were in COL4A (A3/A4/A5), 40% were in podocyte genes, and 5% were in CAKUT genes. Many, but not all individuals with COL4A definitely pathogenic variants had some evidence of glomerular basement membrane abnormalities. The estimated mean survival/age of kidney failure for individuals with COL4A definitely pathogenic variants was 58 years (95% confidence interval, 49 to 69), far later than what has been reported in the literature. Likely pathogenic variants were identified in an additional 9% of the cohort, with most in COL4A. Correlation with glomerular basement membrane morphology suggested a causal role for at least some of these likely pathogenic variants.

Conclusions

Even with an expanded gene panel, we find that COL4A disorders are the leading monogenic cause in adults diagnosed with FSGS.

Podcast

This article contains a podcast at https://www.asn-online.org/media/podcast/CJASN/2019_01_15_CJASNPodcast_19_02_.mp3
Modifying epoxy polymers by cyclic carbonates of epoxidated plant oils
Authors: Gotlib Еlena M , Anh Nguyen  , Sokolova Аlla G.
Published: January 2019

Introduction. Application of renewable raw materials for manufacturing non-toxic components of polymer materials is of great practical interest. Cyclic carbonates on the base of epoxidated rubber tree oil could be seen as a promising alternative of fossil fuels. The ability of compounds containing cyclic carbonates to interact with primary amines and to form urethane and hydroxyl groups makes them rather efficient modifiers of amine-toughened epoxy compounds on the base of low-molecular diane oligomers. Introduction of cyclic carbonates enhances impact behavior of epoxy materials as well as their adhesion and strength properties. Materials and methods. Epoxy resin ED-20 was used for the research, as a cross-linking agent for cold toughening aminealkylphenol AF-2 was used; cyclic carbonates of epoxidated soy oils and rubber tree oil were applied as modifiers. Adhesional strength of bond joints has been determined in compliance with the GOST 28840-90, abrasive hardness of epoxy compound samples has been tested by the vertical optical caliper IZV-1. Results. When applying two-stage technology for obtaining epoxy cyclic carbonate compounds, there has been appeared a significant increase of adhesion to aluminum. This effect could be even more noticeable with increasing temperature during the stage of mixture of the amine toughener with the cyclic carbonate modifier. High viscosity of cyclic carbonate modifiers complicates the process of mixing components of the epoxy compound and correspondingly its application as a backing of glues and linings. The authors researched cyclic carbonates of epoxidated soy oil with various averaged functionality as modifiers. Application of epoxy materials CESO-75 as a modifier has proven to be more forward-thinking for the reasons of cost-efficiency and for operating and technological properties. CESO lowers the coefficient of static friction for epoxy materials together with enhancing their abrasion hardness. Conclusions. Cyclic carbonates of epoxidated plant oils (soy oil and rubber tree oil) as rather efficient non-toxic modifiers of epoxy polymers are of practical interest. They are produced on the base of annually renewable plant raw materials. Their application enables to enhance abrasion hardness and adhesion properties of epoxy compounds and also improve their antifriction properties.
Role of transverse joints in regulation of the reinforced concrete face stress-strain state
Authors: Podvysotckii Aleksei A. , Sainov Mikhail P. , Soroka Vladislav B. , Lukichev Roman V.
Published: January 2019

Introduction. Deals with the results of studying effectiveness of arranging transverse joints in the face as the means of regulation of its stress-strain state. At present reinforced concrete faces are constructed without being cut height-wise and transverse joints may be arranged only at the end of the dam construction stages. This is validated by the fact that experience in construction of flexible (discontinuous) faces has not demonstrated the required level of safety of this structural design. However, in the dams of the up-to-date structural designs, maintaining the face integrity is not guaranteed: cracks appeared in reinforced concrete faces at a number of high dams. Formation of cracks in faces should be attributed to presence of tensile stresses, whose values exceed concrete tensile strength. To prevent seal failure of the seepage-control element it is feasible to provide arrangement of the transverse joint in the face section where tensile stresses may be expected. Materials and methods. The studies were conducted on the example of a 100 m high dam with the aid of numerical modeling. Rockfill was considered as a lineally deformed material, but computations were conducted for a wide range of the soil linear deformation modulus: from 60 to 480 МPа. Steel reinforcement was considered in the face. Transverse joints were modelled with the aid of contact finite elements. Results. By the results of numerical modeling the tensile stresses appear in the uncut face due to bending deformations and deformations of longitudinal extension. The most hazardous is the face lower section. At this section the longitudinal tensile force and considerable moment are acting. Transverse joints are feasible to be arranged in this particular section of the face. Conclusion. It was revealed that the main positive effect of the transverse joint arrangement is in decreasing the value of longitudinal tensile force perceived by the face. Impact of the transverse joint on bending moments has a local effect and covers the section of the limited length. Moreover, at arranging joints the values of bending moments may increase. We may recommend arrangement of a transverse joint in the face which is parallel to the perimeter joints only in the face lower part which is subject to longitudinal deformation.
Firm determinants of risk disclosure: Evidence from Italian listed companies
Authors: Netti Antonio
Published: January 2019

The purpose of the paper is to investigate the relationship between firm characteristics and risk disclosure in the Italian context. Analysing a sample of 183 non-financial Italian listed companies, a regression model was run to examine the influence of some firm determinants, such as size, industry, board of directors independence, ownership structure and leverage (independent variables), on the extent of risk disclosure measured through an index based on the information disclosed in annual report (dependent variable). In particular, from the methodology standpoint, both the bivariate (Pearson correlations) and the multivariate (OLS regression model) statistics have been used, while content analysis was carried out to find the useful information to build the risk index.
Findings show a positive relationship between firm size and the extent of risk disclosure. Contrarily, there is no statistically significant evidence between information provided by Italian companies regarding their risks and the other firm determinants. The results suggest that, in the Italian context, despite the recent interventions from the legislator to improve risk disclosure in corporate reporting, there is a remarkable difference between the disclosure provided by large and small sized companies. The findings could be conducive for regulators and policy-makers, in order to enhance risk disclosure practices and to enhance transparency in the annual report.
Enhanced control of radiator heating system
Authors: Ristanovic Milan , Petrovic Goran , Cojbasic Zarko , Todorovic Maja
Published: January 2019

In this paper a radiator heating system of a building is considered. For the
purpose of the heating system optimization, a mathematical model of the
system is developed. The linear quadratic algorithm with integral action is
proposed and analyzed. This solution has proven to be expensive. Further
analysis of the model is done and a reduction of the order of the system is
proposed. An inverse-based controller design approach for minimum-phase first
order system is used to provide realizable controller in the form of
proportional integral controller. Optimal parameters of the control algorithm
parameters have been chosen by integral of time absolute error criterion, and
also by metaheuristic optimization. According to the real heating demand, a
simulation of the plant is performed. Proposed controllers were tested by
numerical simulation for a typical winter day for geographical region of the
building. It is shown that advanced performance can be achieved with
optimized control systems, and that by controller optimization a significant
reduction of the energy consumption is obtained without losing the in-door
comfort. This has also proved to be more economical solution.