bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Switchable Terahertz Band-Pass/Band-Stop Filter Enabled by Hybrid Vanadium Dioxide Metamaterial
Authors: Chen Ying , Cheng Jianwei , Liang Chaowu
Published: December 2020

To date, little research has been carried out on the integration of switchable and diversified functionalities into a single metamaterial in the terahertz (THz) range. Here, a hybrid vanadium dioxide (VO2) metamaterial was designed with switchable properties of band-pass filter and band-stop filter in the frequency range of 0.3–1.6 THz. Simulations demonstrated that under TE polarization, the proposed system acted as band-stop filter with the center frequency of 0.95 THz when VO2 is in the insulating state. Upon the transformation of VO2 into the metallic state, the proposed system behaved as a band-pass filter with a transmittance of >80%. The physical mechanism of the band-pass/band-stop conversion was examined by analyzing the surface current distribution of the designed device. The switchable characteristics of this structure can enable its wide application in tunable THz functional components such as amplitude modulators, polarization control, and intelligent switches.
Strong Converse Results for Linking Operators and Convex Functions
Authors: Acu Ana-Maria , Heilmann Margareta , Rasa Ioan
Published: December 2020

We consider a family

B

n
,
ρ

c

of operators which is a link between classical Baskakov operators (for

ρ
=
∞

) and their genuine Durrmeyer type modification (for

ρ
=
1

). First, we prove that for fixed

n
,
c

and a fixed convex function

f

,

B

n
,
ρ

c

f

is decreasing with respect to

ρ

. We give two proofs, using various probabilistic considerations. Then, we combine this property with some existing direct and strong converse results for classical operators, in order to get such results for the operators

B

n
,
ρ

c

applied to convex functions.
On Discrete Time Wilson Systems
Authors: Kohli Teena , Panwar Suman , Kaushik S. K.
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we define the discrete time Wilson frame (DTW frame) forl2ℤand discuss some properties of discrete time Wilson frames. Also, we give an interplay between DTW frames and discrete time Gabor frames. Furthermore, a necessary and a sufficient condition for the DTW frame in terms of Zak transform are given. Moreover, the frame operator for the DTW frame is obtained. Finally, we discuss dual pair of frames for discrete time Wilson systems and give a sufficient condition for their existence.
Damage Detection in Holed Carbon Fiber Composite Laminates Using Embedded Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors Based on Strain Information
Authors: Ding Guoping , Song Wenhao , Gao Xiaoling , Cao Hao
Published: December 2020

Compared with metal materials, Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) is more excellent in performance, with high specific strength and high specific modulus. And among various CFRP structural elements, CFRP laminated plates have widespread applications. However, some indiscernible and hidden primary damage always appears on the CFRP laminated plate and will continuously evolve and expand after being loaded. This work starts with the analysis of the relationship between the changes of the strain distribution and damage expansion of CFRP laminated plates and proposes the damage recognition method of CFRP laminated plates based on strain information. Then, the CFRP laminate damage monitoring system based on Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor is established, and the CFRP laminate damage identification experiment based on FBG sensor is made to verify the accuracy of the CFRP laminate damage identification method. The results show that the maximum error between the load when the damage appears on the FBG sensor and that when the damage of CFRP laminated plates expands based on the simulated analysis does not exceed 16%. The accuracy of the damage recognition method of CFRP laminated plates is verified and the damage recognition of CFRP laminated plates and their expansion process is achieved.
Developing Deep Survival Model for Remaining Useful Life Estimation Based on Convolutional and Long Short-Term Memory Neural Networks
Authors: Chu Chia-Hua , Lee Chia-Jung , Yeh Hsiang-Yuan
Published: December 2020

The application of mechanical equipment in manufacturing is becoming more and more complicated with technology development and adoption. In order to keep the high reliability and stability of the production line, reducing the downtime to repair and the frequency of routine maintenance is necessary. Since machine and components’ degradations are inevitable, accurately estimating the remaining useful life of them is crucial. We propose an integrated deep learning approach with convolutional neural networks and long short-term memory networks to learn the latent features and estimate remaining useful life value with deep survival model based on the discrete Weibull distribution. We conduct the turbofan engine degradation simulation dataset from Commercial Modular Aero-Propulsion System Simulation dataset provided by NASA to validate our approach. The improved results have proven that our proposed model can capture the degradation trend of a fault and has superior performance under complex conditions compared with existing state-of-the-art methods. Our study provides an efficient feature extraction scheme and offers a promising prediction approach to make better maintenance strategies.
Enhanced Single‐Degree‐of‐Freedom Analysis of Thin Elastic Plates Subjected to Blast Loading Using an Energy‐Based Approach
Authors: Goel M. D. , Thimmesh T. , Shirbhate P. , Bedon C.
Published: December 2020

Single‐degree‐of‐freedom (SDOF) models are known to represent a valid tool in support of design. Key assumptions of these models, on the other hand, can strongly affect the expected predictions, hence resulting in possible overconservative or misleading estimates for the response of real structural systems under extreme actions. Among others, the description of the input loads can be responsible for major design issues, thus requiring the use of more refined approaches. In this paper, a SDOF model is developed for thin elastic plates under large displacements. Based on the energy approach, careful attention is given for the derivation of the governing linear and nonlinear parameters, under different boundary conditions of technical interest. In doing so, the efforts are dedicated to the description of the incoming blast waves. In place of simplified sinusoidal pressures, the input impulsive loads are described with the support of infinite trigonometric series that are more accurate. The so‐developed SDOF model is therefore validated, based on selected literature results, by analyzing the large displacement response of thin elastic plates, under several boundary conditions and real blast pressures. Major advantage for the validation of the proposed SDOF model is obtained from experimental finite element (FE) and finite difference (FD) models of literature, giving evidence of a rather good correlation and confirming the validity of the presented formulation.
Multiple Xanthogranulomas in an Adult Patient with Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Martínez-García Marta , Silvestre-Torner Nicolás , Aguilar-Martínez Antonio , Burgos-Lázaro Fernando
Published: December 2020

Adult multiple xanthogranuloma (XG) is a rare late-onset variant of juvenile XG. It is characterized by the appearance of papules or nodules located preferably on the trunk. A case of a 54-year-old man with myelodysplastic syndrome is presented as a history of interest, who consulted due to the appearance of multiple brownish papules distributed mainly in the trunk. So far, there are only 22 cases of this clinical form reported in the literature, 9 of them associated with malignant hematological processes. We highlight the importance of this entity as a possible cutaneous marker of blood dyscrasias.
Analysis and Follow up of Endoscopy Results in 1099 Patients with Terminal Ileum Lesions
Authors: Zhong Qinglian , Zhang Anye , Huang Jian , Yan Wen , Lin Jiayu , Huang Qun , Huang Xiaoshan , Yu Tao , Zhu Luhong , Xu Chen
Published: December 2020

Objective. We aim to analyze the diagnostic yield, diagnostic accuracy, and delayed diagnosis of patients with terminal ileum lesions, providing follow-up suggestions for suspected patients. Methods. We carried out an analysis of 1099 patients who had terminal ileum lesions in our hospital from 2009 to 2019. The endoscopy reports and histopathology reports of terminal ileal biopsies were recorded. Clinical diagnosis and management were reviewed to determine whether there was a need to correct after a follow-up endoscopy result. Results. A total of 1099 patients were found to have terminal ileum lesions, among which 959 in 1099 patients (87.26%) were diagnosed as benign, 17 in 1099 patients (1.55%) were diagnosed as malignant, and 123 in 1099 patients (11.19%) were diagnosed as suspected. The diagnostic accuracies of terminal ileal polyp, cyst, cancer, eosinophilic enteritis, parasite, lymphofollicular hyperplasia, and amyloidosis were 100%. The diagnosis was delayed in 9.93% of Crohn’s disease (CD) and 12.5% of lymphoma. Among the definite cases, the diagnosis was corrected during the follow-up in 12.5% of the patients, while the clinical treatment was corrected during the follow-up in 17.86% of the patients. Among the suspected cases, the diagnosis and treatment was corrected in 61.11% of the patients during the follow-up. Conclusion. Coincident diagnosis of ileitis and ileum ulcer is low. Delayed diagnosis of Crohn’s disease and lymphoma were observed in a certain proportion of patients with terminal ileum lesions. A follow-up endoscopy was strongly recommended for these suspected patients with terminal ileum lesions.
Selective Esophagogastric Devascularization in the Modified Sugiura Procedure for Patients with Cirrhotic Hemorrhagic Portal Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhang Yawu , Zhang Lingyi , Wang Mancai , Luo Xiaoling , Wang Zheyuan , Wang Gennian , Guo Xiaohu , Wei Fengxian , Zhang Youcheng
Published: December 2020

Aim. Portal hypertension is a series of syndrome commonly seen with advanced cirrhosis, which seriously affects patient’s quality of life and survival. This study was designed to access the efficacy and safety of selective esophagogastric devascularization in the modified Sugiura procedure for patients with cirrhotic hemorrhagic portal hypertension. Methods. Sixty patients with hepatitis B cirrhotic hemorrhagic portal hypertension and meeting the inclusion criteria were selected and randomly divided by using computer into the selective modified Sugiura group (sMSP group, n = 30) and the modified Sugiura group (MSP group, n = 30). The primary endpoint measurement is the postoperative rebleeding rate. Secondary endpoint measurements included free portal venous pressure, liver Child–Pugh score, liver volume, portal vein width and blood flow velocity, survival rate, quality of life, and dysphagia as well as other complications one year postoperatively. This trial is registered with ChiCTR, number ChiCTR2000033468. Results. There was no statistically significant difference in rebleeding rates within one year after surgery between patients in the sMSP and MSP groups (χ = 0.11,

p
=
0.73

). In comparison with the MSP group, the Child–Pugh score of liver function in the sMSP group significantly increased (χ = 6.4,

p
=
0.04

) and the incidence of dysphagia was significantly reduced (χ = 6.23,

p
=
0.01

) one year after surgery. There was a statistically significant difference in the quality of life between the two groups. However, there were no statistically significant differences in free portal venous pressure (MD = −3.44, 95% CI: −7.87 to 0.98,

p
=
0.12

), postoperative liver volume (3 months: MD = -258.81, 95% CI: −723.21 to 205.57,

p
=
0.24

; 1 year: MD = −320.12, 95% CI: −438.43 to 102.78,

p
=
0.16

), postoperative portal vein width (3 months: MD = −0.06,

p
=
0.50

; 1 year: MD = 0.17,

p
=
0.21

), portal vein flow velocity (3 months: MD = 1.64,

p
=
0.21

; 1 year: MD = −1.19,

p
=
0.57

), 1-year survival rate (χ = 1.01,

p
=
0.31

), and other complications between the two groups. Conclusions. Selective esophagogastric devascularization in the modified Sugiura procedure may not lower the incidence of rebleeding in the short term based on our findings. However, it may significantly improve quality of life of patients with cirrhotic hemorrhagic portal hypertension, improve liver function, and reduce postoperative dysphagia.
Distinguishing Hand Drawing Style Based on Multilevel Analytics Framework
Authors: Xu Hui
Published: December 2020

Hand drawing is an indispensable professional skill in the fields of environmental design, industrial design, architectural engineering, civil engineering, and other engineering design education. Students usually imitate masterpieces to practice basic skills, which is an important link for a beginner. A system for digital management requires a function for an automatic recommendation task of different brushwork skill expressions. Thus, the classification method for brushwork is to combine hand-crafted features generated by DCNN and then use the final features for input to a tree structure classification scheme. The method improvement of the other deep learning models has effectiveness in distinguishing art ontology attributes.
Analysis of Rubberized Self‐Compacting Concrete under Uniaxial Tension by 3D Mesoscale Models
Authors: Diao Hongguo , Wang Xinquan , Cui Yunliang , Han Shangyu , Qi Changguang
Published: December 2020

Damage and failure of rubberized self‐compacting concrete (RSCC) are studied by mesostructural models. The models include six phases: mortar, aggregates, rubber particles, aggregate‐mortar interfacial transaction zones (A‐M ITZs), rubber‐mortar interfacial transaction zones (R‐M ITZs), and voids. Thin layers between mortars and aggregates and between mortars and rubber particles represent A‐M ITZs and R‐M ITZs, respectively. Aggregates and rubber particles are modeled with linear elastic, while mortars, A‐M ITZs, and R‐M ITZs are with different damage‐plasticity behaviors. The mesoscale models are validated by the comparison of numerical results and experimental results. The effects of essential phase parameters on the composite’s strength are evaluated, and empirical laws for these effects are established by data regression. It is demonstrated that the effect of porosity, size, and content of rubber particles affect strength and toughness, which provides guidance to the design of such composites for practical applications.
An Arabic Grammar Auditor Based on Dependency Grammar
Authors: Alothman Ameerah , Alsalman AbdulMalik
Published: December 2020

The Arabic language has many complex grammar rules that may seem complicated to the average user or learner. Automatic grammar checking systems can improve the quality of the text, reduce the costs of the proofreading process, and play a role in grammar teaching. This paper presents an initiative toward developing a novel and comprehensive Arabic auditor that can address vowelized texts. We called the “Arabic Grammar Detector” (AGD-أَجِــدْ). AGD was successfully implemented based on a dependency grammar and decision tree classifier model. Its purpose is to extract patterns of grammatical rules from a projective dependency graph in order to designate the appropriate syntax dependencies of a sentence. The current implementation covers almost all regular Arabic grammar rules for nonvowelized texts as well as partially or fully vowelized texts. AGD was evaluated using the Tashkeela corpus. It can detect more than 94% of grammatical errors and hint at their causes and possible corrections.
A Clinic Trial Evaluating the Effects of Aloe Vera Fermentation Gel on Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis
Authors: Shi Yan , Wei Kehong , Lu Jiachen , Wei Jing , Hu Xiaojing , Chen Tingtao
Published: December 2020

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is the most common disorder in the oral mucosa that affects the daily quality of life of patients, and there is currently no specific treatment. In the present study, we developed aloe vera fermentation gel under the action of probiotics on aloe vera. In total, 35 patients with the history of aphthous stomatitis were enrolled to explore the potential benefits of aloe vera fermentation gel to treat RAS, and the healing-promotion effects were recorded and compared; microbial compositions in different groups were tested by high-throughput sequencing. Our results indicated that the duration of healing time of the aloe group showed potentially better effects because of the higher proportion of 4–6 day healing time (35% vs. 20%) and lower proportion of 7–10 day healing time (65% vs. 80%) compared with that of the chitosan group. Also, the use of aloe vera fermentation gel could return oral bacteria to normal levels and reduce the abundance of harmful oral bacteria including Actinomyces, Granulicatella, and Peptostreptococcus. These results suggest that aloe vera fermentation gel has the ability to treat patients with RAS and has positive prospects in clinical applications.
Literature‐Based Drug Repurposing in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Reduced Inflammatory M1 Macrophage Polarization by Jisil Haebaek Gyeji‐Tang Alleviates Cardiovascular Disease In Vitro and Ex Vivo
Authors: Yu Ga-Ram , Lee Seung-Jun , Kim Da-Hoon , Lim Dong-Woo , Kim Hyuck , Park Won-Hwan , Kim Jai-Eun
Published: December 2020

Relatively high proportions of proinflammatory M1‐like macrophages in tissues may lead to vascular impairment and trigger numerous diseases including atherosclerosis‐related cardiovascular disease (CVD). Jisil Haebaek Gyeji‐tang (JHGT), a polyherbal decoction, is traditionally used to treat various human ailments including chest pain, angina, and myocardial infarction. In the present study, we investigated the anti‐inflammatory effects of JHGT on lipopolysaccharide‐ (LPS‐) stimulated M1 macrophage polarization generated via the mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathway in RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages. The reducing power of JHGT was also investigated using DAF‐FA DA in a zebrafish model. JHGT  significantly reduced inflammatory mediator levels, including iNOS, COX2, TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐1β, as compared with LPS‐stimulated controls in vitro and ex vivo. Furthermore, JHGT suppressed the ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 MAPK pathways and reduced p‐IκBα levels and the nuclear translocation of NF‐κB in RAW 264.7 cells. In addition, treatment with JHGT significantly reduced the NO levels in LPS‐treated zebrafish larva ex vivo. Our findings show the potent anti‐inflammatory properties of JHGT are due to its suppression of MAPK signaling, NF‐κB translocation, and M1 macrophage polarization.
Surgical Outcomes in Macular Telangiectasia Type 2-Related Macular Holes: A Report on Four Patients
Authors: Ahmad Kinza T. , Chacko Joseph , Sallam Ahmed B. , Warner David B. , Uwaydat Sami H.
Published: December 2020

Introduction. The few published studies that exist on the surgical outcomes of full-thickness macular hole (FTMH) repair in Macular Telangiectasia (MacTel) Type 2 report poor rates of hole closure of around 30%. This study is the largest case series of patients with FTMH in MacTel Type 2 and describes an 80% hole closure rate. Purpose/Aim. To describe the outcomes of four patients who underwent surgery for FTMH associated with MacTel Type 2. Methods. A retrospective review of clinical, surgical, and imaging data of five eyes in four patients with MacTel Type 2 FTMH who underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and 30% SF6 or 15% C3F8 gas tamponade within 3-9 months of initial vision decline. Results. Visual acuity (VA) at the time of surgery ranged from 20/50 to 20/200. Successful hole closure was achieved in four out of five eyes, and final VA ranged from 20/20 to 20/40 at follow-up visits greater than 20 months postoperatively. The single eye that did not achieve hole closure had a final VA of 20/60. Conclusion. Our case series describes higher hole closure rates and better final VA than previously published reports for macular hole surgery in patients with MacTel Type 2 FTMH.
Effects of Temperature on Structural Properties of Hydrated Montmorillonite: Experimental Study and Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Hong Wangbing , Meng Jie , Li Changdong , Yan Shengyi , He Xin , Fu Guobin
Published: December 2020

Montmorillonite (MMT) is highly sensitive to environmental changes and therefore plays a key role in the structural evolution of rocks and soils and even damage and disasters. The effects of important environmental factors (the temperature and water content) on MMT structural properties require in‐depth study. The structure and morphology of sodium montmorillonite (Na‐MMT) and its thermal products (micro‐nanoparticles) were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was performed to investigate how temperature (below the failure temperature of the Na‐MMT crystal layer) affects the structural properties of hydrated MMT. (1) The laboratory results showed that increasing the temperature significantly affected water molecules, and the particle aggregates exhibited inhomogeneous thermal expansion. The interlayer structure collapsed at 500–700°C. (2) In the simulation, the pull‐off force inhibited interactions among oxides, crystal layers on both sides of the sample, and the bonding structure of water molecules, thus exposing the stress on the bonding body for analysis. The MMT ultimate stresses in the X, Y, and Z directions all trended downward with increasing water content and temperature. (3) Environmentally induced damage was most likely to occur in the Z direction. Increasing the number of interlayer water molecules increased the layer spacing and considerably weakened van der Waals forces, such that the roles of the electrostatic force and the interlayer hydrogen bond network gradually became significant. The most significant impact of increasing the temperature was reflected in the hydrogen bonding network, resulting in the destruction of the interlayer water bridge, the gradual failure of the layered bonding structure, and the formation or development of cracks. This improved understanding of the structural properties of MMT aggregates under environmental change advances research on the evolutionary behaviour of nano‐, micro‐, and macrostructures of rocks and soils.
Controlling Embedded Systems Remotely via Internet-of-Things Based on Emotional Recognition
Authors: Zedan Mohammad J. M. , Abduljabbar Ali I. , Malallah Fahad Layth , Saeed Mustafa Ghanem
Published: December 2020

Nowadays, much research attention is focused on human–computer interaction (HCI), specifically in terms of biosignal, which has been recently used for the remote controlling to offer benefits especially for disabled people or protecting against contagions, such as coronavirus. In this paper, a biosignal type, namely, facial emotional signal, is proposed to control electronic devices remotely via emotional vision recognition. The objective is converting only two facial emotions: a smiling or nonsmiling vision signal captured by the camera into a remote control signal. The methodology is achieved by combining machine learning (for smiling recognition) and embedded systems (for remote control IoT) fields. In terms of the smiling recognition, GENKl-4K database is exploited to train a model, which is built in the following sequenced steps: real-time video, snapshot image, preprocessing, face detection, feature extraction using HOG, and then finally SVM for the classification. The achieved recognition rate is up to 89% for the training and testing with 10-fold validation of SVM. In terms of IoT, the Arduino and MCU (Tx and Rx) nodes are exploited for transferring the resulting biosignal remotely as a server and client via the HTTP protocol. Promising experimental results are achieved by conducting experiments on 40 individuals who participated in controlling their emotional biosignals on several devices such as closing and opening a door and also turning the alarm on or off through Wi-Fi. The system implementing this research is developed in Matlab. It connects a webcam to Arduino and a MCU node as an embedded system.
Classification of Thyroid Nodules with Stacked Denoising Sparse Autoencoder
Authors: Li Zexin , Yang Kaiji , Zhang Lili , Wei Chiju , Yang Peixuan , Xu Wencan
Published: December 2020

Purpose. Several commercial tests have been used for the classification of indeterminate thyroid nodules in cytology. However, the geographic inconvenience and high cost confine their widespread use. This study aims to develop a classifier for conveniently clinical utility. Methods. Gene expression data of thyroid nodule tissues were collected from three public databases. Immune-related genes were used to construct the classifier with stacked denoising sparse autoencoder. Results. The classifier performed well in discriminating malignant and benign thyroid nodules, with an area under the curve of 0.785 [0.638–0.931], accuracy of 92.9% [92.7–93.0%], sensitivity of 98.6% [95.9–101.3%], specificity of 58.3% [30.4–86.2%], positive likelihood ratio of 2.367 [1.211–4.625], and negative likelihood ratio of 0.024 [0.003–0.177]. In the cancer prevalence range of 20–40% for indeterminate thyroid nodules in cytology, the range of negative predictive value of this classifier was 37–61%, and the range of positive predictive value was 98–99%. Conclusion. The classifier developed in this study has the superb discriminative ability for thyroid nodules. However, it needs validation in cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules before clinical use.
Prevalent Health Problems among Nepalese Underground Construction Workers
Authors: Ghimire Rajan , Neupane Ganesh Prasad
Published: December 2020

Background. Workplace is associated with exposure to various products, which can be associated with adverse health outcomes. It is true with underground construction work. This study calculated the prevalence of common health problems among Nepalese underground construction workers in comparison to heavy construction workers. This type of study is rare in the context of Nepal and other developing countries, and we hope that the findings will help to take precautions for the prevention of these conditions. Method. It was a retrospective study based on the clinical record of outpatient cases and general health checkups of all Nepalese workers available at the Project clinic, Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project, Gongar, Bigu, Dolakha. We studied three hundred and ninety-eight workers. We used multipurpose analysis and conducted the Chi-square test and calculated correlations and odds ratios. Results. Two hundred and sixteen (54.3%) participants worked inside the tunnel, and 182 (43.2%) participants worked outside the tunnel. Respiratory disease, mainly upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) (23.4%), is the most common presentation among construction workers followed by injuries (16.7%). Injuries and hypertension were significantly higher in inside the tunnel workers, and acute gastroenteritis was significantly (

p

value <0.05) higher in outside the tunnel workers. Increasing age increased the chance of hypertension and cutaneous fungal infection among construction workers. Further studies are required for the analysis of risk factors associated with these health conditions. Conclusion. Respiratory problems are the most common health problem in underground construction workers; however, injuries and hypertension were significantly higher in tunnel workers. Acute gastroenteritis was significantly higher among outside the tunnel workers. Workplace safety should be the priority of every construction site, especially focusing to prevent respiratory problems, injuries, and accidents.
Heart Rate Variability and Prognosis in Hemodialysis Patients: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Letian , Zhao Yuliang , Qiao Baiyu , Wang Yating , Zhang Ling , Cui Tianlei , Fu Ping
Published: December 2020

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) means the variation in time of beat-to-beat interval. Lower HRV has been shown to be related with death and cardiovascular events in previous studies. In the last few years, the number of patients with ESRD has increased steadily. Maintenance hemodialysis is the most prevalent renal replacement therapy in patients with ESRD. This study aims to investigate if decreased HRV is an independent predictor of mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients. Methods: Pubmed/Medline, EMBASE, Ovid, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched up to October 1, 2019, for full-text articles in English. Cohort studies reporting the association between HRV and prognosis in hemodialysis patients were selected. Data extraction was performed by 2 reviewers independently, with adjudication by a third reviewer. Extracted data included the study characteristics, HRV measurement and research outcomes. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were pooled in a random-effects model for outcomes of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Heterogeneity assessment, subgroup analyses, and sensitivity analysis were conducted. Results: A total of 7 studies were eligible. HRV metrics consist of SDNN, SDANN, RMSSD, pNN50, HRVTI, ULF, VLF, LF, HF, LF/HF ratio, HRT, DC, and scaling exponents α1 and α2. Decreased HRV was associated with higher all-cause mortality (HR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.11–2.39, p = 0.014) and cardiovascular mortality (HR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.00–1.15, p = 0.045). Among the different HRV metrics, decreased SDANN (p < 0.001) and decreased LF/HF ratio (p = 0.001) were identified as predictors of all-cause death. Decreased SDNN, SDANN, and LF/HF ratio were identified as predictors of cardiovascular death (p = 0.004, p = 0.001, and p = 0.002). Conclusions: Decreased HRV is associated with higher risk of all-cause and cardiovascular death in the hemodialysis population. Decreased SDANN and LF/HF were identified as predictors of both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, while the utility of other HRV metrics requires further investigation. The protocol for this study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019141886).
NephroCheck® Quality Test
Authors: Naorungroj Thummaporn , Serpa Neto Ary , Yanase Fumitaka , Bittar Intissar , Eastwood Glenn M. , Bellomo Rinaldo
Published: December 2020

Background: The acute kidney injury (AKI) risk score helps detect moderate and severe AKI in the next 12–24 h. However, inappropriate urine collection may impact its results. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability of NephroCheck® after urine storage at different temperatures. Methods: The urine sample was centrifuged and split into 3 tubes. One was tested as soon as possible by the laboratory. The other 2 samples were frozen at −20 and −80°C, and the NephroCheck® test was performed 8 weeks later. Results: The mean values of the AKI risk score were 1.19 ± 0.93, 1.15 ± 1.14, and 1.20 ± 1.11 (ng/mL)2/1,000 for fresh urine, −20, and −80°C, respectively (p = 0.70). Spearman’s rank correlation for −20 and −80°C versus immediate processing was strong with a rho of 0.82 and 0.98, respectively. Conclusion: The AKI risk score was relatively stable. Urine could be collected without dry ice or liquid nitrogen and kept for up to 8 weeks with either −20 or −80°C freezing with stable NephroCheck® results.
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome and Nephrotic Syndrome Associated with Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Duarte Inês , Gameiro Joana , Outerelo Cristina , Nogueira Estela , Lopes José António
Published: December 2020

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare disease. It results from the dysregulation of the alternative complement pathway on the cell surface which causes endothelial damage. Increasing evidence links, these abnormalities to mutations in genes of complement regulators or with autoantibodies against complement factors. These mutations have an incomplete penetrance and variable phenotype. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is endemic throughout the world, and the incidence of severe CMV disease in immunocompetent adults appears to be greater than previously thought. aHUS and nephrotic syndromes associated with CMV infection are rare. Identification of triggers for aHUS manifestation in a genetically susceptible patient is extremely important since this permits a faster initiation of treatment and clinical improvement. We report a case of a man with a homozygotic deletion of CFHR3-1 whose initial presentation was aHUS and nephrotic syndromes associated with CMV infection.
Cultural and Linguistic Practice with Children with Developmental Language Disorder: Findings from an International Practitioner Survey
Authors: Stankova Margarita , Rodríguez-Ortiz Isabel R. , Matić Ana , Levickis Penny , Lyons Rena , Messarra Camille , Kouba Hreich Edith , Vulchanova Mila , Vulchanov Valentin , Czaplewska Ewa , Ringblom Natalia , Hansson Kristina , Håkansson Gisela , Jalali-Moghadam Niloufar , Dionissieva Katya , Günhan Senol N. Evra , Law James
Published: December 2020

Background: The cultural and language diversity across many European countries presents a range of challenges and opportunities for speech and language therapists and other practitioners working with children with developmental language disorders (DLD) and their families. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore practitioners’ perceptions of cultural and linguistic differences in response to children with DLD across different countries. Methods: A survey was developed by practitioners and researchers working with children with DLD across Europe and beyond as part of the work of Cost Action IS1406. Data from 1,358 practitioners from 8 European countries – Ireland, UK, Bulgaria, Poland, Croatia, Spain, Norway and Sweden – and 2 neighbour countries – Turkey and Lebanon – were included in the present analyses, which address two groups of questions. The first focuses on practitioners’ perceptions of the way that parents think about cultural differences and their relationship to language development in their children. The second concerns the extent to which practitioners consider themselves to have the skills to work with children from other cultures and using different languages. Results/Conclusions: Most countries present a similar profile with intermediate results about their perception of cultural issues, but Lebanon and Turkey are the group with the most positive responses. In terms of bilingual issues most practitioners indicated that they only worked in their country’s primary language. The only country where this was not the case was Lebanon. Professionals from Spain and Lebanon form a subgroup in terms of their confidence to work with different cultural/language groups. The paper highlights both the universal importance of cultural and linguistic competence in managing young children’s needs and indicates that in most cases professionals do not think they have the necessary expertise to work with cultural and linguistic diversity.
Switching Monopolar No-Touch Radiofrequency Ablation Using Octopus Electrodes for Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Park Sae-Jin , Cho Eun Ju , Lee Jeong-Hoon , Yu Su Jong , Kim Yoon Jun , Yoon Jung-Hwan , Kang Hyo-Jin , Yoon Jeong Hee , Lee Dong Ho , Kim Se Hyung , Lee Jae Young , Lee Jeong Min
Published: December 2020

Introduction: A switching monopolar no-touch radiofrequency ablation (RFA) technique is used for small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, there have not been any randomized clinical trials comparing this technique to the conventional RFA technique. Objective:This study aims to compare the results of two RFA techniques, and to comparatively identify more effective methods to reduce the progression of local tumors associated with small HCC (≤2.5 cm). Methods: This prospective randomized clinical trial (NCT03375281) recruited a total of 116 participants (M:F, 93:23; 68.3 ± 8.4 years) between October 2016 and September 2017. The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of local tumor progression (LTP) after RFA. Secondary outcomes included technical success rate, technique efficacy, and RFA procedure characteristics. Kaplan-Meier analysis and the Cox proportional hazard regression model were used. Results: The mean follow-up period was 24.1 months. A sufficient ablative margin was more frequently achieved in the no-touch RFA group (57/60 = 95%) than in the conventional RFA group (50/64 = 78.1%) on immediate follow-up CT (p = 0.01). The cumulative incidence of LTP in the no-touch RFA group was significantly lower than that in the conventional RFA group (p = 0.02). In multivariable analysis, no-touch RFA was the only predictive factor for LTP (p = 0.04, hazard ratio = 0.2, 95% confidence interval = 0.04–0.94). Conclusions: A switching monopolar no-touch RFA technique is a favorable treatment option and provides lower LTP after RFA compared with conventional RFA for small HCC.
Positive Influence of Probiotics on the Gut-Skin Axis
Authors: Sticherling Michael
Published: December 2020

The existence of a gut-skin axis is supported by increasing evidence, but its translational potential is not widely recognized. Studies linked inflammatory skin diseases to an imbalanced gut microbiome; hence, the modulation of the gut microbiota to improve skin condition seems to be a feasible approach. Today, there is a growing interest in natural products as alternatives to synthetic drugs. In this respect, oral probiotics could be a simple, safe and cheap modality in the therapeutic management of skin inflammation. Unfortunately, very few studies have looked into how probiotic supplementation influences inflammatory skin disorders. The results, though promising, are difficult to implement in clinical practice due to the heterogeneity of the applied supplemental regimen in the different studies. In this Viewpoint, we aim to encourage the conduction of more research in that direction to explore unambiguously the therapeutic potential of oral probiotics in dermatology. We focus on the most common inflammatory skin diseases (atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, acne vulgaris) with an associated gut dysbiosis, but we also discuss some less common, but very serious skin pathologies (eg erythema nodosum, pyoderma gangrenosum, hidradenitis suppurativa) that are possibly linked to a disturbed gut flora composition. We dissect the possible mechanisms along the gut-skin axis and highlight novel points where probiotics could interfere in this communication in the diseased state.
La gobernanza del transporte en España después de la liberalización: ¿A la búsqueda de un modelo unico?
Authors: Agudo González Jorge
Published: December 2020

O artigo trata do regime jurídico dos transportes na Espanha com especial destaque às consequências do movimento de liberalização. Parte-se de uma análise das competências estatais sobre a matéria de transporte. Em seguida, abordam-se os efeitos da liberalização da governança dos transportes em diversos setores (incluindo aeroportos e ferrovias) e, ao final, discute-se a questão da titularidade das infraestruturas de transportes e o tema da “despublicização”.
As políticas públicas no paradoxo privatização versus constitucionalização do Direito Administrativo
Authors: Romão Luis Fernando de França
Published: December 2020

Considerando as transformações do Direito Administrativo, este artigo posiciona as políticas públicas no paradoxo da privatização versus constitucionalização do Direito, identificando o impacto, de modo geral, da Reforma do Estado e da adoção do modelo gerencial de Administração Pública para as políticas e os serviços públicos, tecendo, igualmente, considerações sobre a inter-relação política pública, privatização e regulação, podendo-se concluir pela significativa repercussão nos programas de ação governamental dos movimentos operados pelo atual Direito Administrativo.
A legalidade administrativa e a crise do positivismo jurídico
Authors: Chicoski Davi
Published: December 2020

Trata-se de trabalho que analisa o princípio da legalidade no âmbito da Administração Pública, desde a concepção liberal até a crise do positivismo jurídico, bem como o desenvolvimento do pensamento pós-positivista. Aborda a questão da segurança jurídica, princípio caro aos teóricos e profissionais do direito, que influenciou consideravelmente a concepção liberal do princípio da legalidade. Apresenta as características fundamentais do pensamento juspositivista. Expõe pensa­mento crítico ao positivismo que se desenvolveu em seguida à derrocada do liberalismo, estabele­cendo um contraponto com as características juspositivistas antes apresentadas. Discorre acerca do pensamento de juristas históricos que se debruçaram sobre o tema, em especial Hans Kelsen, Norberto Bobbio, Claus-Wilhelm Canaris, J.J. Gomes Canotilho e Charles Eisenmann. Enfrenta, finalmente, o princípio da legalidade do direito administrativo contemporâneo, especialmente a problemática relacionada aos regulamentos editados pela Administração Pública.
A (i) legalidade da regulamentação da licitação por adesão e a aplicação da lei de acesso à informação
Authors: Mello Elizabete Rosa de , Policiano Eliane Beatriz Cunha , Andrade Marcella Coelho
Published: December 2020

Este artigo analisa os contratos celebrados pela Administração Pública e investiga o art. 15 da Lei nº 8.666/1993, que traz o Sistema de Registro de Preços, e desde 2013 é regulamentado pelo Decreto nº 7.892, que, por sua vez, inova ao trazer a definição de órgão não participante. A questão controvertida foca na legalidade da licitação por adesão à ata de registro de preços, que se convencionou denominar “licitação carona”. Para tanto, serão discutidos posicionamentos doutri­nários e jurisprudenciais no tocante ao tema, levando em conta os princípios norteadores da atividade do Estado na busca do interesse público. Por fim, tratar-se-á da Lei de Acesso à Informação (Lei nº 12.527/2011), que tem por escopo a consolidação de um Estado Democrático de Direito por meio da ampliação do conceito de publicidade.
Contratação de parcerias público-privadas no setor de iluminação pública: aspectos da receita corrente líquida e as características da COSIP
Authors: Saadi Lima Mario Marcio
Published: December 2020

O trabalho versa sobre a questão das receitas públicas municipais a serem destinadas para o custeio de PPPs de iluminação pública, para a remuneração devida às concessionárias. Mais especifica­mente, pretendeu-se pesquisar se os dispêndios relativos às PPPs que tenham como objeto a prestação de serviços de iluminação pública, custeadas com recursos advindos da cobrança da Contribuição para Custeio do Serviço de Iluminação Pública, deveriam impactar o limite de RCL passível de ser compro­metido com contratos dessa natureza.
Mecanismos de participação da sociedade civil nas Conferências Internacionais ONU Habitat II E ONU Habitat III
Authors: Morais Cesar Machado de
Published: December 2020

Foi realizada, em outubro de 2016, a Terceira Conferência das Nações Unidas sobre Habitação e Desenvolvimento Urbano Sustentável (Habitat III), na cidade de Quito, Equador. Trata-se da continuação de um programa que ocorre a cada vinte anos desde 1976, ano da primeira conferência, em Vancouver, Canadá. A partir da década de 1990, com as transformações no cenário internacional advindas do fim da Guerra Fria, as conferências promovidas pela ONU passaram a apresentar duas inovações: 1. A inclusão de temas de caráter social na agenda internacional; e 2. A inclusão de novos atores na conferência, provenientes dos governos locais e da sociedade civil. Nesse contexto, a ONU Habitat II, em 1996, encerrou o ciclo da chamada década das conferências sociais, ao mesmo tempo em que introduziu a participação oficial de atores não estatais nas delegações nacionais das conferências. Desse modo, considerando a relevância da participação da sociedade civil no planejamento de políticas públicas, e partindo do pressuposto de que política externa pode ser entendida como política pública, o presente artigo pretende identificar e analisar os mecanismos que possibilitaram a participação da sociedade civil dos países membros nas conferências ONU Habitat II e ONU Habitat III
A fiscalização e o acompanhamento da execução do contrato administrativo na Administração Pública - artigo 67 - Lei Nº 8.666/93
Authors: Santos Lucimar Rizzo Lopes dos
Published: December 2020

Este artigo apresenta a situação atual do processo de fiscalização e de acompanhamento da execução do contrato administrativo no âmbito da Administração Pública. Enfatiza a relevância do papel do agente público enquanto fiscal do contrato administrativo e os limites de sua atuação de acordo com o artigo 67 da Lei nº 8.666/93. Nesta perspectiva, o agente público investido nas funções de fiscal de contratos poderá ser responsabilizado por eventuais erros ou ilícitos praticados
Tribunais de Contas Municipais e dos Municípios: Repercussões jurídicas oriundas do artigo 31, §4º, da Constituição Federal
Authors: Costa Renato Saeger Magalhães
Published: December 2020

Não obstante a importância de suas funções, os Tribunais de Contas ainda permanecem como instituições pouco conhecidas pela população. Tem-se, portanto, no presente trabalho, o intuito de aprofundar o estudo sobre as Cortes de Contas na esfera municipal, principalmente à luz da previsão do artigo 31, §4º, da Constituição Federal de 1988.
Acessibilidade nos shopping centers: uma análise sobre a intervenção estatal na propriedade privada
Authors: Silva e Santos Nathália
Published: December 2020

O presente artigo pretende analisar a aplicação das normas de acessibilidade nos shopping centers. Para tanto, realiza-se a pesquisa com enfoque no direito administrativo, analisando-se as modalidades de restrição estatal sobre a propriedade privada, mais precisamente, as limitações administrativas. De modo geral, objetiva-se examinar:(i) o conceito do termo “pessoa com deficiência”;(ii) a atuação da Administração Pública na efetivação dos direitos fundamentais desse grupo social; (iii) a contextualização dos shopping centers no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro. A metodologia utilizada constitui-se em um estudo descritivo-analítico, desenvolvido por meio de análise bibliográfica, legislativa e jurisprudencial.
Programas de residência jurídica na Administração Pública: uma análise à luz da Constituição Federal
Authors: Santos Júlio César Souza dos
Published: December 2020

O presente estudo tem por escopo examinar a juridicidade de contratações realizadas no âmbito de órgãos do Poder Judiciário, Ministério Público, Procuradorias e Defensorias, sob a denomi­nação de “programa de residência jurídica”. Para tanto, será realizada análise quanto à natureza jurídica das residências jurídicas e, consequentemente, se estão em conformidade com os requisitos constitucio­nais e legais de contratação. Com efeito, demonstrar-se-á que esta modalidade de contratação configura mecanismo de captação de mão de obra para o exercício temporário de típica atividade estatal, disso­ciado de objetivos educacionais. Por conseguinte, tais contratações são caracterizadas por nítido desvio de finalidade e pela violação aos princípios do concurso público, da proteção à confiança e da eficiência.
Entidades reguladoras como guardiãs de contratos de saneamento básico: panorama regulatório na aplicação de revisões e reajustes tarifários no Brasil
Authors: Carvalho André Castro , Fagundes Marina Aidar de Barros
Published: December 2020

Esse artigo tem por objeto o estudo da regulação brasileira no setor de saneamento básico, ressaltando a evolução nesses últimos dez anos. O texto apresenta uma análise referente ao poder e ao alcance das entidades reguladoras no Brasil frente aos contratos do setor de saneamento básico no que toca à aplicação de revisões e reajustes tarifários. Questiona-se qual o limite de ingerência destas enti­dades nos contratos de saneamento básico no país.