bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DESEMPENHO TÉRMICO DE UMA EDIFICAÇÃO UNIFAMILIAR NATURALMENTE VENTILADA PARA O CLIMA DE TEÓFILO OTONI-MG
Authors: Cordeiro de Oliveira Camila , Rodrigues Marques Sakiyama Nayara , Ventura de Miranda Layane
Published: April 2017

RESUMO: Nos últimos anos, em virtude das preocupações com a eficiência energética das edificações, a adequação da arquitetura ao clima ganhou maior importância. Sendo que, uma das formas de tornar uma construção eficiente energeticamente, é através da utilização de estratégias de condicionamento passivo, destacando-se a ventilação natural para o clima quente e úmido. Neste contexto, o presente trabalho apresenta a simulação computacional de uma edificação unifamiliar, naturalmente ventilada, realizada por meio do plug-in Archsim, para a cidade de Teófilo Otoni – MG, utilizando-se, para tanto, os dados climáticos do TRY (Test Reference Year). As alternativas adotadas nas simulações consistiram em variar a disposição e a área de ventilação das aberturas, verificando a influência destes parâmetros no desempenho térmico da edificação. De acordo com os resultados obtidos na simulação pode-se dizer que a melhor orientação para as aberturas é na direção leste-sul com área de abertura para ventilação natural de 20% da área do piso. Para esta composição a porcentagem de horas de conforto para a edificação é de 57,5% e o desconforto térmico anual é de 42,5% das horas. A principal contribuição deste artigo consiste na análise da utilização da ventilação natural em edificações de pequeno porte e seu impacto no conforto térmico do usuário, apresentando ainda a importância da utilização de simulações computacionais como ferramenta de auxilio no projeto arquitetônico.

ABSTRACT: Concerns related to energy efficiency in buildings in recent years, induced the increase of architectural adaptation to climate. The use of passive conditioning strategies, emphasizing natural ventilation for hot and humid climate is one way to have an energy-efficient construction. In this context, this paper presents a computer simulation of a single family building, naturally ventilated, held by the plug-in Archsim to the city of Teófilo Otoni - MG, using the climate data TRY (Test Reference Year). The alternative adopted in the simulations consisted in varying the layout and area of ventilation openings, checking the influence of these parameters on the thermal performance of the building. According to the results obtained in the simulation, the best orientation for the openings is in the south-east direction with opening area for natural ventilation of 20% of the floor area. For this composition the building comfort hours’ percentage is 57.5% and the annual thermal discomfort is 42.5% of the hours. The main contribution of this paper is the analysis of the use of natural ventilation in small buildings and its impact on the thermal comfort of the user, showing the importance of using computer simulations as an aid tool in architectural design.
DETERMINAÇÃO DOS CUSTOS DE MUDANÇA PARA USUÁRIOS DE TRANSPORTE AÉREO EM RELAÇÃO AO PREÇO DAS TARIFAS
Authors: Wallisson F. Vieira Willker , Odilon M. Torres Fernando , A. de Mendonça Marcos André , Carvalho Willer Luciano
Published: April 2017

RESUMO: Este trabalho analisa o grau de fidelização dos usuários do transporte aéreo do Aeroporto Internacional de Goiânia, quanto à linha Goiânia-Guarulhos(SP). Para tanto, foram coletadas as preferências declaradas dos passageiros no saguão de embarque desse aeroporto e, depois de tratados os dados, através do modelo de escolha discreta logit multinomial, chegou-se ao custo de mudança dos serviços em questão, ou seja, mediu-se qual a porcentagem crítica de variação dos preços das passagens aéreas que faz um cliente fidelizado a uma empresa mudar para os serviços de outra. Os resultados obtidos para os custos de mudança da empresa TAM (preferida dos usuários) para a AZUL foram de 3%, da TAM para a GOL foram de 12% e da TAM para a Avianca foram de 15%. Assim, o presente estudo apresenta ferramenta importante para análise do mercado do setor aéreo, possibilitando às empresas o aprimoramento de suas estratégias comerciais, a partir de um melhor entendimento do comportamento do usuário do setor aéreo no Brasil.

ABSTRACT: This paper analyzes the degree of loyalty of air transport users of Goiânia’s International Airport, on the line Goiânia-Guarulhos. Therefore, were collected the stated preferences of the passengers in the departure lounge of this airport and, after treatment data, through of the discrete choice model logit multinomial, came to the switching costs for the services in question, in the other words, was measured which the critical percentage change in the price of airline tickets that makes a customer loyal to a company moving to the other services. The results obtained for the switching costs of TAM (preferred by users) for AZUL was 3%, TAM for GOL was 12% and TAM for Avianca was 15%. Thus, this study presents an important tool for analysis of the airline industry market, enabling companies to improve its business strategies, from a better understanding of the airline industry user behavior in Brazil
DIÁLOGOS ENTRE EDUCAÇÃO E POLÍTICA: O Ensino Primário nas mensagens dos Governadores de Goiás. (1946-1961)
Authors: Aparecida Alves Silva Maria , Guimarães Furquim Camargo Kênia
Published: April 2017

O presente estudo tem como objetivo principal analisar a organização e estrutura do ensino primário, no período de 1946 a 1961, a partir das mensagens dos governadores goianos. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, de cunho documental, tendo como fontes primárias as mensagens apresentadas pelos governadores do Estado de Goiás à Assembléia Legislativa e a legislação educacional produzida no período em apreço. Tais mensagens, que se encontram catalogadas no Arquivo Público do Estado de Goiás e constituem objeto dessa pesquisa, são em número de cinco, destacando o governo de Jerônimo Coimbra (1947-1950), Pedro Ludovico (1951-1954), José Ludovico (1955-1959), José Feliciano (1959-1961) e Mauro Borges (1961-1964).
CRÍTICAS E REALIDADES: O Que dizem os professores de ciências e Biologia de Altamira- PA?
Authors: Warly Santos Costa Dhemersson , Augusto SILVA Carlos , Kened Rodrigues Santos Janes
Published: April 2017

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi delinear o perfil de formação dos professores de ciências e biologia, suas necessidades formativas e as principais dificuldades enfrentadas pelos mesmos ao ministrar suas aulas. Para tal, foi aplicado um questionário para os professores da rede municipal e estadual de ensino do município de Altamira-PA. Como resultados, identificou-se que os docentes são, na sua maioria, constituídos por profissionais do sexo feminino formados na área de Ciências Biológicas ou Ciências Naturais, estes apontam algumas deficiências em sua formação com relação ao enfoque docente, como a falta de: práticas pedagógicas mais ativas no período da graduação que incentivassem maior contato com o âmbito escolar, e ajudasse lidar com as situações educacionais contemporâneas. No entanto, em relação aos aspectos teóricos e científicos, estes professores assinalam contentamento com as habilidades desenvolvidas nesse quesito. Com relação à infraestrutura, de modo geral, os cursos deixam a desejar, pois se notam falta de laboratórios, estrutura física completa e entre outros. Sabe-se da importância de ter uma boa qualificação na formação inicial de professores, assim como, processos de formação continuada para que estes tenham oportunidades de atualizar-se, utilizando estratégias didáticas, afim de que suas aulas sejam satisfatórias para aprendizagem dos alunos.
UM MARCO PARA A HISTÓRIA EDUCACIONAL MATO-GROSSENSE: A Criação do Aprendizado Agrícola Gustavo Dutra
Authors: Marques Abimael Antunes , Filho Geraldo Inácio
Published: April 2017

O presente trabalho faz uma pequena retrospectiva sobre a trajetória da instituição educacional denominada Aprendizado Agrícola Gustavo Dutra, criada pelo Governo Federal nos idos de 1943 no município de Santo Antônio do Rio Abaixo, no Estado de Mato Grosso.
In Vivo Intraocular Pressure Monitoring during Microincision Vitrectomy with and without Active Control of Infusion Pressure
Authors: Yang Hyun S. , Yun Young I. , Park Jong H. , Choi Sangkyung , Woo Je M.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To evaluate intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuation during vitrectomy, we directly monitored IOP in vivo using 2 vitrectomy machines with or without constant infusion pressure monitoring and control.

Methods

Among 61 eyes of 61 consecutive patients, 32 were assigned to the Accurus system (group 1) and 29 were assigned to the Constellation system (group 2) in this prospective case series. The IOP fluctuations were evaluated during routine vitrectomy procedures.

Results

The initial IOP before vitrectomy was 20.3 ± 2.4 mm Hg in group 1 using a conventional vented gas forced infusion system and 20.0 ± 0.0 mm Hg in group 2 using active IOP control at 20 mm Hg (p = 0.532). However, the average IOP change during core vitrectomy was -8.6 ± 4.3 mm Hg in group 1 and -0.8 ± 1.1 in group 2 (p<00.001). Maximum IOP was significantly decreased in group 1 (-17.0 ± 2.6 mm Hg) compared with that in group 2 (-4.1 ± 2.2 mm Hg) (p<00.001). Partial ocular collapse was observed during vitrectomy only in group 1 (78.1%). Peak IOP significantly increased during scleral compression and gas and fluid injection but was not significantly different between the groups (all p≥0.147). The IOP fluctuation range was 50-70 mm Hg in both groups.

Conclusions

The IOP fluctuated significantly during routine vitrectomy using both systems. Hypotony and partial ocular collapse were more frequently observed during vitrectomy with the Accurus system than with the Constellation system. Both systems were vulnerable to IOP surge during indentation and intravitreal injection.
An Italian Translation and Validation of the near Activity Visual Questionnaire (NAVQ)
Authors: Zeri Fabrizio , Beltramo Isabella , Boccardo Laura , Palumbo Paolo , Petitti Vincenzo , Wolffsohn James S. , Naroo Shehzad A.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To validate the Near Activity Vision Questionnaire (NAVQ) in Italian to allow the assessment of presbyopia corrections in Italian-speaking patients.

Methods

An Italian version of the NAVQ was arranged through several steps: an initial forward translation (from English to Italian), a backward translation (from Italian to English), and finally a consensual version to check against the original NAVQ. This prospective study enrolled native Italian-speaking presbyopic patients with corrected distance visual acuity of 0.20 logMAR or better in each eye and free of ocular anomalies. Six different groups of patients were asked to complete the questionnaire: emerging presbyopic patients, reading spectacle users, multifocal spectacle users, multifocal contact lens (CL) wearers, monovision CL wearers, and monofocal intraocular lens patients. Subjects were asked to answer the questionnaire again 2 weeks after the first completion.

Results

A total of 207 subjects completed the questionnaire. Data analysis showed good internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.93) and factorial validity with only one factor explaining 62.0% of the variance. Test-retest reliability was extremely good (ICC = 0.92) as well as discriminatory power of the questionnaire's ability to discriminate between subjects with different forms of presbyopic correction.

Conclusions

The Italian version of the NAVQ matches the properties of the original English version. It is a valid instrument to evaluate near activity visual quality of presbyopic Italian speakers.
Chondro-Keratoprosthesis: An Alternative to OOKP?
Authors: Hoffart Louis , Guyot Laurent
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the use of cartilage as a potential graft material toward osteo-odontal tissue replacement in keratoprosthesis surgery.

Methods

We describe a modification of the osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis surgery that involves the use of autologous auricular conchal cartilage graft (ACCG). In stage 1a, a full-thickness cheek mucosa graft was performed over the ocular surface. In stage 1b, ACCG was harvested via a retroauricular approach. An optical polymethyl-methacrylate cylinder was embedded into a double-layered fragment of cartilage and secured by cyanoacrylate glue. The graft is then placed in a infraorbital pocket. Stage 2, performed after 3 months, involved retrieval of the complex and implantation after reflection of the mucosal flap, corneal trephination, iris and lens removal and anterior vitrectomy.

Results

We report two cases of chondro-keratoprosthesis (CKPRO) who underwent surgery with up to 15 months of follow-up. Preoperatively, vision was limited to light perception (LP) in both cases. On patient 1, CKPRO was performed in the right eye and the postoperative visual acuity stay limited to LP related to preoperative retinal lesions. On patient 2, CKPRO was performed in the left eye and the vision was improved to 20/100 J6. No postoperative complications such as extrusion, epithelial downgrowth, retrocorneal membrane or endophtalmia were observed.

Conclusions

ACCG could be an interesting alternative to replace osteo-odontal graft in keratoprosthesis surgery. However, further comprehensive studies with larger sample size and longer follow-up are required. However longer follow-up and a higher number of patient are required to report postoperative complications incidence, survival and functional outcomes.
Povidone-Iodine 3-Minute Exposure Time is Viable in Preparation for Cataract Surgery
Authors: Nguyen Chu L. , Oh Lawrence J. , Wong Eugene , Francis Ian C.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Povidone-iodine (PI) is widely used to reduce the preoperative conjunctival bacterial load. This study aimed to evaluate the employment of PI 10% in an attempt to sterilize the ocular surface prior to cataract surgery, and to show that PI could be left in contact for 3 minutes. The viability of this exposure time in clinical practice, associated adverse events, and visual outcomes were documented.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, phacoemulsification cataract surgery was performed in 604 patients by a single surgeon. Preoperative preparation was undertaken with PI 10%, applied to the cornea, conjunctival sac, eyelids, and periorbital skin with sterile cotton gauze. Povidone-iodine was then flushed onto the ocular surface. Operating room staff timed the precise duration of exposure. After the 3-minute preparation, the lids were thoroughly dried with fresh dry gauze.

Results

The median PI exposure time was 3.17 minutes, with an interquartile range of 0.25. All cases were followed up postoperatively at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month. There were no complications attributable to PI. Visual outcomes were satisfactory.

Conclusions

Implementation of a preoperative prophylaxis protocol that used PI 10% with a 3-minute exposure time can be performed in clinical practice. The 3-minute exposure time had no adverse sequelae.
Reading Ability and Quality of Life in Stargardt Disease
Authors: Murro Vittoria , Sodi Andrea , Giacomelli Giovanni , Mucciolo Dario P. , Pennino Monica , Virgili Gianni , Rizzo Stanislao
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To study the reading performance of patients with Stargardt disease (STGD) and the relationship between clinical vision measurements and vision-related quality of life (VRQOL).

Methods

We studied both eyes of 16 patients with STGD. Each patient was examined for best-corrected visual acuity (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study [ETDRS]), reading ability (MNREAD and REX charts), contrast sensitivity (Pelli-Robson charts), fixation study (MP1 microperimeter), and VRQOL (25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire [NEI VFQ-25]). The correlation pattern among these variables was examined and an exploratory factor analysis was used to investigate dimensionality of both visual function and VRQOL.

Results

Mean ETDRS visual acuity was about 20/160 (0.9 logMAR). All studied psychophysical measures were highly or moderately correlated with MNREAD reading speed (p<0.05 level). A similar correlation was found between psychophysical measures and VRQOL, which was higher for MNREAD measures of acuity (r = -0.75) and speed (r = 0.74). Accordingly, exploratory factor analysis suggested that a single latent dimension explained most of the variance of vision psychophysical measures as well as of VRQOL.

Conclusions

We propose that reading ability should be assessed in patients with STGD, since we found that both MNREAD reading speed and visual acuity are strong determinants of quality of life. The observed relation between reading ability and VRQOL in STGD suggests that in these patients appropriate low vision rehabilitation can improve both reading performance and consequently VRQOL. Finally, our data support the use of reading speed and visual acuity as important outcome measures for monitoring STGD progression.
Factors Influencing Intravitreal Bevacizumab and Triamcinolone Treatment in Patients with Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Kim Tai K. , Shin Hye Y. , Kim Su Y. , Lee Young C. , Lee Mee Y.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To evaluate factors associated with response to intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) and intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) in diabetic macular edema (DME).

Methods

Ninety-one eyes of 88 patients diagnosed with DME were enrolled in this retrospective chart review. Group 1 included eyes that showed good response to IVB. Group 2 included eyes that did not respond to IVB but responded to IVTA. Group 3 included eyes that responded to neither. Clinical factors, HbA1c, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings including patterns of macular edema were compared among the 3 groups.

Results

A total of 44, 27, and 20 eyes were included in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. HbA1c was higher in group 3 than in the other groups. Proportion of full (combination of all patterns) type edema was higher in group 3 than in the other 2 groups. In group 1, the proportion of sponge-like diffuse retinal thickening type was higher and cystoid macular edema type was lower than in the other groups.

Conclusions

The degree of diabetic control and morphologic subtypes with OCT should be considered to better predict the prognosis after treatment in DME.
Epiretinal membrane negative staining and double peeling in a single block with Brilliant Blue G
Authors: Martins David , Neves Pedro
Published: April 2017

Purpose:

To describe a surgical technique for combined peeling of epiretinal and internal limiting membranes.

Methods:

The authors present their procedure of choice for epiretinal membrane surgery: negative staining effect using Brilliant Blue G and single block removal of the epiretinal and internal limiting membranes in a single step.

Results:

A total of 26 eyes were operated with the described technique. In all cases, the peeling was performed successfully and with no complications. Minimum postoperative follow-up was 12 months. There were no recurrences of epiretinal membranes.

Conclusions:

The ideal surgical approach for epiretinal membranes should attempt to reduce mechanical trauma, light exposure, and dye toxicity.
An Experimental-Numerical Investigation on the Effects of Macroporous Scaffold Geometry on Cell Culture Parameters
Authors: Eghbali Hadis , Nava Michele M. , Leonardi Gabriella , Mohebbi-Kalhori Davod , Sebastiano Roberto , Samimi Abdolreza , Raimondi Manuela T.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Perfused bioreactors have been demonstrated to be effective in the delivery of nutrients and in the removal of waste products to and from the interior of cell-populated three-dimensional scaffolds. In this paper, a perfused bioreactor hosting a macroporous scaffold provided with a channel is used to investigate transport phenomena and culture parameters on cell growth.

Methods

MG63 human osteosarcoma cells were seeded on macroporous poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffolds provided with a channel. The scaffolds were cultured in a perfused bioreactor and in static conditions for 5 days. Cell viability and growth were assessed while the concentration of oxygen, glucose and lactate were measured. An in silico, multiphysics, numerical model was set up to study the fluid dynamics and the mass transport of the nutrients in the perfused bioreactor hosting different scaffold geometries.

Results

The experimental and numerical results indicated that the specific cell metabolic activity in scaffolds cultured under perfusion was 30% greater than scaffolds cultured under static conditions. In addition, the scaffold provided with a channel enabled the shear stress to be controlled, the initial seeding density to be retained, and adequate mass transport and waste removal.

Conclusions

We show that the macroporous scaffold provided with a channel cultured in a macroscale bioreactor can be a robust reference experimental model system to systematically investigate and assess crucial culture parameters. We also show that such an experimental model system can be employed as a simplified “representative unit” to improve the performance of both perfused culture systems and hollow, fiber-integrated scaffolds for large-scale tissue engineering.
Yap, Taz and Areg Expression in Eighth Cranial Nerve Schwannoma
Authors: Martini Alessandro , Marioni Gino , Zanoletti Elisabetta , Cappellesso Rocco , Stramare Roberto , Fasanaro Elena , Faccioli Chiara , Giacomelli Luciano , Denaro Luca , D'Avella Domenico , Mazzoni Antonio , Fassina Ambrogio
Published: April 2017

Background

Although the diagnosis and treatment of eighth cranial nerve (VIII CN) schwannoma (acoustic neuroma) has improved over the years, no factors capable of predicting tumor growth have been identified as yet. This study is a preliminary investigation of the expression in sporadic VIII CN schwannomas of Yes-associated protein (YAP), transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), and amphiregulin (AREG), a direct target gene of YAP and TAZ. The expression of YAP, TAZ and AREG was correlated with the volumetric dimensions of tumors on contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (ceMRI).

Methods

YAP, TAZ and AREG expression was assessed immunohistochemically in surgical specimens of 36 consecutive sporadic VIII CN schwannomas. 3D reconstructions of the tumors and their corresponding volumes in cm3 were obtained from measurements on ceMRI images using the OsiriX® software.

Results

We found a significant direct correlation between TAZ expression and VIII CN schwannoma volumes on latest preoperative ceMRI (p<0.0003). Mean TAZ expression was also significantly higher in VIII CN schwannomas with a volume ≥2.1 cm3 than in those with a volume <2.1 cm3 (p<0.0018). No significant correlations emerged for YAP or AREG expression and VIII CN schwannoma volume.

Conclusions

The immunohistochemical expression of TAZ (but not YAP or AREG) correlated significantly with schwannoma volume measured on ceMRI. Further investigations are needed to identify the biological factors influencing tumor proliferation (ideally secreted proteins like AREG) that might be detected using non-invasive approaches (i.e., blood samples).
Healing Response of Rat pulp Treated with an Injectable Keratin Hydrogel
Authors: Ajay Sharma Lavanya , Love Robert M. , Ali Mohammad A. , Sharma Ajay , Macari Soraia , Avadhani Avadhoot , Dias George J.
Published: April 2017

Background

Keratin has shown promising outcomes as a biomaterial due to its inherent bioactivity, biocompatibility and regenerative effects. The effect of keratin on repair and regeneration of dental tissues has never been studied before. Current therapies to treat pulp tissues involve its replacement with inert, synthetic materials that do not have a proper biological function, leading to failure and tooth loss. This study aimed to develop a biocompatible keratin hydrogel (KH) suitable for pulp therapies.

Methods

Keratins extracted from sheep wool were isolated, quantified and reconstituted to form KH. Different concentrations of keratin gel suitable for dental application were characterized by rheological analysis. The optimized gel based on flow characteristics was studied further for microstructure including porosity, percentage swelling ratio and contact angle measurements, using analytical tools such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), micro-computed tomography and goniometer. To assess both biocompatibility and pulpal response, KH was implanted into rat upper molar teeth following partial pulpotomy. After 28 days, the tissue sections were analyzed by histological and immunohistochemical methods to identify dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP-1) formation and compared with control (Ca(OH)2-treated) teeth.

Results

The results of the study demonstrated a viscous and injectable, porous, dimensionally stable, hydrophilic and biocompatible gel that allowed pulp healing to occur by a reparative response, with widespread DMP-1 expression.

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicate that keratins can be developed as a biomaterial source for alternate biological treatment options for pulp therapies.
Surfactant-Assisted Synthesis of Polyvinylpyrrolidone-hydroxyapatite Composites as a Bone Filler
Authors: Langroudi Masoumeh Meskinfam , Saravani Masoud Giahi , Nouri Azita
Published: April 2017

Background

Different methods have been used to prepare bone-like composites from inorganic nanoparticles embedded in polymeric matrixes to obtain the properties and structures required for bone fillers.

Methods

Bone-like nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) was synthesized using a biomimetic method, with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as template and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as surfactant.

Results

The results demonstrated the formation of HA composites and showed that polymer and surfactant as the polymer capsule can be properly used to control the size, shape, morphology and dispersion of HA crystals. All of the samples were bioactive due to their ability to form carbonate apatite and grow HA on their surface. The MTT assay showed that the samples were biocompatible.

Conclusions

Based on bioactivity and biocompatibility evaluations, the prepared composites can be considered as good candidates for bone filler applications.
The incidence and risk factors of coronary steal after ipsilateral AVF in patients with a coronary artery bypass graft
Authors: Ahn Sanghyun , Han Ahram , Kim Song-Yi , Choi Chanjoong , Min Sang-il , Ha Jongwon , Hwang Ho Young , Kim Ki-Bong , Min Seung-Kee
Published: April 2017

Objective

Ipsilateral arteriovenous fistula (AVF) may cause symptoms of coronary steal in patients who had undergone coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) using internal thoracic artery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adverse effects of ipsilateral AVF to CABG, including the incidence of coronary steal, and to analyze the risk factors for coronary steal.

Methods

Between 2000 and 2013, a total of 25 patients undergoing hemodialysis via upper extremity AVF, ipsilateral to the preexisting CABG, were reviewed retrospectively. Clinical assessment related to coronary steal, echocardiography before AVF, and coronary angiography after symptoms were assessed. The definition of coronary steal was the new development of one or more of the following symptoms within 12 weeks after AVF creation: chest pain, chest discomfort, and dyspnea.

Results

Three patients were clinically diagnosed as coronary steal. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was statistically lower in coronary steal group compared to no-steal group (41.7% vs. 50.9%; p = 0.036). Patients with coronary steal were older at the age of CABG surgery and showed a higher incidence of regional wall motion abnormality.

Conclusions

Coronary steal after ipsilateral AVF creation in patients with CABG using in situ internal thoracic artery (ITA) developed in 12%, which can be related to low LVEF. In patients with CABG requiring AVF for hemodialysis, the ipsilateral fistula to the grafted ITA should be carefully selected and performed.
Transulnar approach as an alternative to transradial approach in non-coronary intervention: safety, feasibility and technical factors
Authors: Zybulewski Adam , Edwards Martin , Kim Edward , Nowakowski Francis S. , Patel Rahul , Tabori Nora , Lookstein Robert , Fischman Aaron
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Transulnar access (TUA) has been shown to be an effective alternative to transradial access (TRA) for coronary intervention. This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of TUA in patients undergoing visceral interventions in the setting of contraindication to TRA.

Materials and Methods

Patients who underwent visceral interventions via ulnar approach were included in the study. Outcome variables include technical success, access site and bleeding complications.

Results

From May 2014 to September 2016, TUA was attempted 17 times in 14 patients (mean age: 60 years; range: 27 to 81 years) for whom TRA was planned for visceral intervention, but contraindicated. Contraindication to TRA included Barbeau D waveform (n = 3), radial artery diameter <2 mm (n = 8), known radial loop (n = 2), high takeoff of the radial artery (n = 2), prior radial artery occlusion (RAO) (n = 1), and radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (n = 1). Interventions included selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) (n = 4), SIRT mapping (n = 2), chemoembolization (n = 6), renal embolization (n = 1) and bland liver embolization (n = 4). Technical success was achieved in 94.1% (16/17 cases) with the single failure attributed to an inability to cannulate the target vessel due to vessel tortuosity, requiring ipsilateral femoral crossover. There were no major access site or bleeding complications. Minor adverse events include two access site hematomas, which were successfully treated with conservative management.

Conclusions

TUA for visceral interventions is a safe and effective alternative to femoral approach when TRA is contraindicated.
Arteriovenous access banding revisited
Authors: Teixeira Gabriela , Almeida Paulo , Sousa Clemente N. , Teles Paulo , De Sousa Paulo , Loureiro Luís , Teixeira Sérgio , Rego Duarte , Almeida Rui , Norton de Matos António
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The aim of this study is to validate the current applicability of arteriovenous access banding in high flow access (HFA) and/or haemodialysis access-induced distal ischaemia (HAIDI).

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted at the GEV (Grupo de Estudos Vasculares) vascular access centre. The clinical records of consecutive patients undergoing banding for HAIDI and HFA symptoms, between June 2011 and January 2015, were reviewed until April 2015. All vascular access patients’ consultation records and surgical notes were reviewed. We analysed and compared patients’ age, gender, comorbidities, symptoms and intraoperative ultrasound control. We defined technical failure as recurrence of symptoms, requiring new banding. Excessive banding, access thrombosis, rupture and false aneurysm development were registered as complications. Primary clinical success was defined as improvement of symptoms or effective flow reduction after banding, with no need for reintervention. If one reintervention was necessary, we have defined it as secondary clinical success.

Results

Overall, 119 patients underwent banding: 64 (54%) with HAIDI and 55 (46%) with HFA. The HAIDI group was significantly older (65 ± 13 years compared with 56 ± 22 years, p = 0.001) and had significantly greater number of patients with diabetes (56% vs 24%, p = 0.004). Primary success was achieved in 85 patients (71.4%) and the secondary success rate was 84.9%. Older age (p = 0.016) and intraoperative ultrasound control (p = 0.012) were significantly associated with primary success.

Conclusions

Our results do not corroborate the high incidence of thrombosis previously reported as associated with AV access banding and suggest that ultrasound control is crucial for preventing technical failure. The procedure was effective on both compared groups.
Treatment of central venous in-stent restenosis with repeat stent deployment in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Ronald James , Davis Bradley , Guevara Carlos J. , Pabon-Ramos Waleska M. , Smith Tony P. , Kim Charles Y.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To report patency rates for stent deployment for treatment of in-stent stenosis of the central veins of the chest in hemodialysis patients.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on 29 patients who underwent 35 secondary percutaneous transluminal stent (PTS) deployments for in-stent stenosis within the central veins that were refractory to angioplasty and ipsilateral to a functioning hemodialysis access (in-stent PTS group). For comparison, patency data were acquired for 47 patients who underwent 78 successful percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) procedures for in-stent stenosis (in-stent PTA group) and 55 patients who underwent 55 stent deployments within native central vein stenosis refractory to angioplasty (native vein PTS group).

Results

The 3-, 6-, and 12-month primary lesion patency for the in-stent PTS group was 73%, 57%, and 32%, respectively. The 3-, 6-, and 12-month primary patency for the in-stent PTA group was 70%, 38%, and 17% and for the native vein PTS group was 78%, 57%, and 26%, which were similar to the in-stent PTS group (p = 0.20 and 0.41, respectively). The 3-, 6-, and 12-month secondary access patency was 91%, 73%, and 65% for the in-stent PTS group. Sub-analysis of the in-stent PTS group revealed no difference in primary (p = 0.93) or secondary patency rates (p = 0.27) of bare metal stents (n = 23) compared with stent grafts (n = 12).

Conclusions

Stent deployment for central vein in-stent stenosis refractory to angioplasty was associated with reasonable patency rates, which were similar to in-stent PTA and native vein PTS.
Variation in use of technology among vascular access specialists: an analysis of the PICC1 survey
Authors: Chopra Vineet , Kuhn Latoya , Ratz David , Winter Suzanne , Carr Peter J. , Paje David , Krein Sarah L.
Published: April 2017

Background

While the use of technologies such as ultrasound and electrocardiographic (ECG) guidance systems to place peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) has grown, little is known about the clinicians who use these tools or their work settings.

Methods

Using data from a national survey of vascular access specialists, we identified technology users as PICC inserters that: (a) use ultrasound to find a suitable vein for catheter placement; (b) measure catheter-to-vein ratio; and (c) use ECG for PICC placement. Individual and organizational-level characteristics between technology users versus non-users were assessed. Bivariable comparisons were made using Chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests; two-sided alpha with p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Of the 2762 PICC inserters who accessed the survey, 1518 (55%) provided information regarding technology use. Technology users reported greater experience than non-technology users, with a higher percentage stating they had placed >1000 PICCs (55% vs. 45%, p<0.001). A significantly greater percentage of technology users also reported being certified in vascular access by an external agency than non-technology users (75% vs. 63%, p<0.001). Technology users were more often part of vascular access teams with ≥10 members compared to non-technology users (35% vs. 22%, p<0.001). Some practices also varied between the two groups: for example, use of certain securement devices and dressings differed between technology users and non-users (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Technology use by vascular access clinicians while placing PICCs is associated with clinician characteristics, work setting and practice factors. Understanding whether such differences influence clinical care or patient outcomes appears necessary.
1st Evidence-based Italian Consensus Conference on Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Carcinosis from Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Cavaliere Davide , Cirocchi Roberto , Coccolini Federico , Fagotti Anna , Fambrini Massimiliano , Federici Orietta , Lorusso Domenica , Vaira Marco , Ceresoli Marco , Delrio Paolo , Garofalo Alfredo , Pignata Sandro , Scollo Paolo , Trojano Vito , Amadori Andrea , Ansaloni Luca , Cariti Giuseppe , De Cian Franco , De Iaco Pierandrea , De Simone Michele , Deraco Marcello , Donini Annibale , Fiorentini Giammaria , Frigerio Luigi , Greggi Stefano , Macrì Antonio , Pasqual Enrico Maria , Roviello Franco , Sammartino Paolo , Sassaroli Cinzia , Scambia Giovanni , Staudacher Carlo , Vici Patrizia , Vizza Enrico , Valle Mario ,   On behalf of the Italian Society of Surgical Oncology (SICO), the Italian Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (SIGO), the Italian Association of Hospital Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (AOGOI), and the Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM)
Published: April 2017

Ovarian cancer (OC) remains relatively rare, although it is among the top 4 causes of cancer death for women younger than 50. The aggressive nature of the disease and its often late diagnosis with peritoneal involvement have an impact on prognosis. The current scientific literature presents ambiguous or uncertain indications for management of peritoneal carcinosis (PC) from OC, both owing to the lack of sufficient scientific data and their heterogeneity or lack of consistency. Therefore, the Italian Society of Surgical Oncology (SICO), the Italian Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, the Italian Association of Hospital Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, and the Italian Association of Medical Oncology conducted a multidisciplinary consensus conference (CC) on management of advanced OC presenting with PC during the SICO annual meeting in Naples, Italy, on September 10-11, 2015. An expert committee developed questions on diagnosis and staging work-up, indications, and procedural aspects for peritonectomy, systemic chemotherapy, and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for PC from OC. These questions were provided to 6 invited speakers who answered with an evidence-based report. Each report was submitted to a jury panel, representative of Italian experts in the fields of surgical oncology, gynecology, and medical oncology. The jury panel revised the reports before and after the open discussion during the CC. This article is the final document containing the clinical evidence reports and statements, revised and approved by all the authors before submission.
C677T and A1298C polymorphisms of methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase in non-Hodgkin lymphoma: southeast Iran
Authors: Mashhadi Mohammad Ali , Miri-Moghaddam Ebrahim , Arbabi Narges , Bazi Ali , Heidari Zahra , Sepehri Zahra , Karimkoshte Azra , Rezvan Alireza , Hashemi Seyed Mahdi
Published: April 2017

Purpose:

Polymorphisms of the methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene have been reported as risk factors for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in some populations. Our goal was to evaluate the potential role of A1298C and C677T polymorphisms of MTHFR in risk of NHL in southeast Iran.

Methods:

In the present case-control study, 127 patients with newly diagnosed NHL along with 150 ethnicity- and age-matched controls were examined. The A1298C and C677T polymorphisms were genotyped using the Tetra Amplification Refractory Mutation System polymerase chain reaction method.

Results:

There were no significant differences in genotype frequencies between cases and controls regarding either A1298C polymorphism. For this polymorphism, 53.8% of the controls and 54.3% of the patients with NHL showed homozygous wild-type (AA) genotype. Variant 1298C allele was recognized with overall frequency of 34.6% in both groups. Frequencies of CC, CT, and TT genotypes of C677T polymorphism were observed in 73.1%, 25.8%, and 1.3% of the controls, and 64.5%, 33.1%, and 2.4% of the patients with NHL (p>0.05). In combination, CT + TT conferred a significantly higher risk of NHL (odds ratio [OR] 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.9-2.4, p = 0.03). Overall, variant 677T allele presented with higher frequency in the patients with NHL than the controls (26.7% versus 21.3%, respectively; OR 1.3, 95% CI 0.8-2.1, p>0.05). Although statistically insignificant, the highest risk of NHL was identified in patients with C677T; A1298C: CT; CC haplotype (OR 4.7, 95% CI 0.4-46.4, p = 0.1).

Conclusions:

Combination of CT and TT genotypes of C677T polymorphism conferred a significantly higher risk for NHL. It is recommended to investigate further the potential role of this polymorphism in NHL development.
Discrete Time Hazard Modeling of Large Motor Carriers' Longitudinal Safety Performance
Authors: Miller Jason
Published: April 2017

Multiple stakeholders have a vested interest in motor-carrier safety because it affects the welfare of the general public and companies' supply chain operations. This article develops new theory about motor carrier safety by utilizing processes from attention-based theory and new institutional theory to answer questions regarding carrier safety since the rollout of the Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) program. This research examines the propensity that carriers flagged for poor performance on hours-of-service (HOS) compliance when the program was fully implemented in late 2010 exited this status at least once during the subsequent 3.5 years. Conversely, it examines whether carriers not flagged for poor HOS performance at the start of the program come to receive a safety warning at least once during the subsequent 3.5 years. It further examines how carrier size affects these respective hazard rates. Hypothesized effects are tested using panel data from N = 484 large, for-hire carriers by fitting a series of discrete time hazard models. The results are consistent with the theory put forward. The article concludes by describing theoretical contributions, explaining managerial and public policy implications, noting limitations, and making recommendations for further inquiry.
Evaluating the Impact of Spatio-Temporal Factors on Construction Heuristics for Transportation Services
Authors: Mian Adnan Noor , Fahim Amina , Hameed Abdul
Published: April 2017

In the dial-a-ride services, customers specify pickup and drop-off locations and their times for transport. The operator aims at constructing cheap itineraries while minimizing customer inconvenience. This problem has been studied as the Dial-a-Ride Problem (DARP), which consists of both spatial and temporal factors. This article studies the impact of spatial and temporal variation on multivehicle DARP using route construction heuristics. Our work highlights the impact of these variations on the customer disutility and transportation cost. The study will help the service operators in selecting an appropriate construction heuristic while expanding the DARP service in terms of service area, service duration, or planning for a sudden growth in the number of customers. The results show that if the operator is planning to expand the area of service, the Saving Heuristic is more appropriate for larger operators while Insertion Heuristic with spatial sorting scheme is better for smaller operators with limited number of vehicles. If the operator is expanding the service in terms of service duration, from 8 to 24 hours daily, for instance, or preparing for a growth in the number of customers, the Saving Heuristic is better for both smaller and larger service operators.
No case for Case in locality: Case does not help interpretation when intervention blocks A-bar chains
Authors: Friedmann Naama , Rizzi Luigi , Belletti Adriana
Published: April 2017

We discuss a robust yet at first sight surprising fact: individuals who have problems understanding sentences with object A-bar movement cannot use overt Case marking of the object to interpret these sentences and to associate the DPs with thematic roles. We tested the effect of overt Case marking of the object in typically developing Hebrew-speaking children by comparing their comprehension of which object questions with and without the object Case marker et, and found that there was no difference in comprehension between the two. A similar pattern was found in an adolescent with syntactic SLI. We then tested the comprehension of object topicalized structures in the order OVS, where the only element identifying these sentences as object-first sentences and distinguishing them from simple SVO sentences was the object marker. We tested this in three populations with object A-bar movement problems: individuals with agrammatism, adolescents with syntactic SLI, and orally-trained children with hearing impairment, as well as in analysis of previous data on typically-developing children acquiring Hebrew. All populations failed to understand the sentence, but did not consistently reverse the thematic roles of the two noun phrases. This suggests that they were sensitive to the presence of the Case marker but could not use it for interpretation. We argue that these findings immediately follow from the way intervention and locality are computed, under the featural Relativized Minimality approach. Case is not among the features triggering movement, therefore a Case difference is not taken into account in trying to build a movement chain across an intervener. As a result, the object chain cannot be built across the intervening subject in the relevant cases, and overt Case marking of the object cannot help rescue the structure. Thematic role assignment in complex movement configurations requires the building of movement chains; if chain formation fails, strategies based on overt morphological cues do not help. These results argue for a feature-selective approach to locality and for encapsulated syntactic computation of movement.
Letter from introduction. From editors
Authors: Cazorla A. , Lopez-Sebastian A. , De Blas C.
Published: April 2017

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Empirical Study of Technological Factors Being Involved in Income Distribution --An Example of Gansu Province
Authors: Li Liqun
Published: April 2017

Involvement of technological factors in income distribution according to their contributions is an intrinsic requirement of the market economy, and also an objective requirement for promotion of technological innovations and realization of effective allocation of resources. However, many problems emerged in China's enterprises and public institutions, higher education institutions and research institutes during their growth and development, these problems include: "Insider control", "59 Years Old Phenomenon", Low Work Efficiency and severe brain drain etc. These issues were caused by many factors, one key factor is the incomplete distribution incentive mechanism which is, in fact, an ignorance of the value of human capital. Through field investigation of technological factors involving in income distribution in Gansu Province, this article analyzed related data, had a conclusion and proposed some issues in the distribution mode.
Een moeilijke missie: een analyse van de nieuwe Europese grens- en kustwacht
Authors: Kok S.G.
Published: April 2017

Een moeilijke missie: Een analyse van de nieuwe Europese grens- en kustwacht

De Verordening voor een Europese grens- en kustwacht van 2016 introduceert het concept van een geïntegreerd grensbeheer. De Europese Unie heeft hierdoor mogelijkheden om te interveniëren wanneer lidstaten de buitengrenzen onvoldoende bewaken. De Europese grens- en kustwacht gaat echter nog steeds uit van uitvoering van de grensbewaking door de lidstaten zelf. De lidstaten kunnen bijstand ontvangen door grensbewakings- en terugkeeroperaties. Deze worden gecoördineerd door het Frontex-agentschap en uitgevoerd door nationale ambtenaren van de lidstaten. Deze constructie kan leiden tot complexe vragen over aansprakelijkheden en bevoegdheden, zeker op een politiek beladen terrein waar mensenrechten onder druk (kunnen) staan.

Verordening (EU) 2016/1624 tot wijziging van Verordening (EU) 2016/399 van het Europees Parlement en de Raad en tot intrekking van Verordening (EG) nr. 863/2007, Verordening (EG) nr. 2007/2004 van de Raad en Besluit 2005/267/EG van de Raad, PbEU 2016, L 251/1