bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case of reversible pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with incontinentia pigmenti
Authors: Atallah Veronique , Meot Mathilde , Kossorotoff Manoelle , Galmiche‐Rolland Louise , Lardeux Claude , Neven Benedicte , Bodemer Christine , Bonnet Damien
Published: July 2018

Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is a multisystemic disorder in which pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe and rarely reported association. The prognosis has been poor in reported cases. In our patient, IP was diagnosed during the neonatal period with a combination of cutaneous, ophthalmic, and neurological symptoms. The infant experienced severe collapse with bradycardia during general anesthesia to treat retinal telangiectasia. Echocardiography after resuscitation revealed suprasystemic pulmonary hypertension (PH). Right heart catheterization (RHC) confirmed precapillary PAH not responding to acute vasodilatation test. Lung biopsy was performed to exclude alveolo‐capillary dysplasia. Upfront triple therapy with endothelin receptor antagonist, PDE5 inhibitors, and prostacyclin was started. Due to a potential inflammatory mechanism of this acute PAH in the setting of IP, TNF‐alpha blockers and steroids were associated. The evolution was favorable with progressive normalization of the pulmonary artery pressure confirmed by RHC after six months. Doses of PAH drugs were tapered down, and finally all PAH treatments could be stopped after 18 months. Subsequent controls including physical exams and echocardiograms did not show signs of PH. This unusual reversible case of pediatric PAH without associated congenital heart disease or portal hypertension highlights the potential reversibility of pediatric PH when an inflammatory mechanism can be suspected. This is the first reported case of non‐fatal isolated PAH associated with IP.
Combined use of polypill components in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Janssen Vivi E , Visseren Frank L , de Boer Anthonius , Grobbee Diederick E , Westerink Jan , van der Graaf Yolanda , Lafeber Melvin
Published: July 2018

Objectives

A polypill containing aspirin, a statin and blood pressure (BP)-lowering agents has been proposed for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. To increase adherence and reduce the gaps between indicated and used therapy, a polypill might be of interest for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Our aim was to assess the prevalence of the combined use of polypill components in patients with T2DM over time.

Methods

The combined use of polypill components was assessed between 1996 and 2015 in patients with T2DM in the prospective SMART cohort ( n = 1828). The results were dichotomized into patients without ( n = 568) and with ( n = 1260) vascular disease. The patient characteristics associated with the use of polypill components were evaluated.

Results

In total, 19% of patients with T2DM without vascular disease received a statin and ≥2 BP-lowering agents (‘cardiovascular polypill’) and 13% received additional oral glucose-lowering therapy (‘diabetic polypill’). Of the patients with T2DM with vascular disease, 42% received the combination of an antiplatelet agent, a statin and ≥2 BP-lowering agents (‘cardiovascular polypill’) and 30% received additional glucose-lowering therapy (‘diabetic polypill’). The prevalence of the use of the cardiovascular and diabetic polypill combination has substantially increased between 1996 and 2015 to 36 and 32% in patients without vascular disease and to 67 and 57% in patients with vascular disease.

Conclusions

Patients with T2DM frequently use polypill components, often together with oral glucose-lowering agents, and this rate of use has increased steadily between 1996 and 2015. Introducing a cardiovascular or diabetic polypill for patients with T2DM seems to be highly relevant.
Interventional repair of a vascular aneurysm in a patient with Marfan syndrome
Authors: Ghonem Mohammed E , Yuan Xun , Mitsis Andreas , Nienaber Christoph A
Published: July 2018

Marfan syndrome is a heritable connective tissue disorder affecting skeletal, ocular and cardiovascular systems. Cardiovascular manifestations comprise aneurysmal dilatation of aortic root, aortic dissection and rupture; peripheral arterial aneurysms have been reported in femoral, iliac and subclavian arteries with surgical reconstruction as the first-line therapeutic option. We report a Marfan patient with a symptomatic aneurysm of left subclavian artery in the intrathoracic retro-clavicular space; instead of open surgical resection, an endovascular solution was successfully applied by use of a flexible self-expanding stent-graft (W.L Gore® Viabahn® Endoprosthesis 9 × 100 mm) to exclude the aneurysm. This case exemplifies a modern option to manage vascular pathology even in patients with Marfan syndrome. Follow-up over 1 year proved very reassuring with complete remodelling and resolution of the aneurysm; long-term follow-up is certainly warranted, considering the potential of recurrence or initial reactive hyperplasia.
For a renewal of the situation concept: The situation of home online shopping
Authors: Michaud-Trévinal Aurélia , Stenger Thomas
Published: July 2018

Twenty years after the pioneering article devoted to interactive home shopping by Alba et al., this research intends to study the situation of home online shopping (SHOS). An observation is carried out using video recording to examine the real practices that occur behind the screen. Two theoretical approaches are distinguished (classic and participatory). A new conceptualization of the situation is proposed that rests on three factors: the participants, spatial dimension, and time dimension. An analysis of the results highlights a main participant who interacts with other participants and business websites in addition to their spatial mobility and the materiality of the situation with its discontinuous characteristic. The fragmentation of the SHOS is emphasized. In addition to a new conceptualization of the situation, this research aims to relativize the online immersion process (flow) and to integrate the SHOS into a real omni-channel strategy.
Regarding
Authors: Whedon James M.
Published: July 2018

In the article, “Insurance Reimbursement for Complementary Healthcare Services,” we reported that the likelihood of reimbursement for complementary health care services in New Hampshire was significantly lower as compared with services of primary care physicians. The relatively low likelihood of reimbursement for integrative health care suggests that many patients who want such services must pay for them out of pocket. Affordable access to these services may be similarly limited in other states; certainly the utilization of integrative health care services varies significantly across the US states, and such variation may be tied to likelihood of reimbursement. Unwarranted geographic variation in reimbursement for integrative health care services is likely to compound inequities in access to health care in general, particularly for people of lower socioeconomic status. The aspirational value of Health Justice asserts the obligation of societies to attend to the basic health needs of all, with particular attention to the disadvantaged. A new project under development, The Atlas of Integrative Healthcare, is intended to support the advancement of health justice. The Atlas project is expected to support the policy goals of the integrative health care community with regard to helping patients access the high-value integrative health care services that they need and want.
BCL-2 inhibition in AML: an unexpected bonus?
Authors: Konopleva Marina , Letai Anthony
Published: July 2018

B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) was discovered at the breakpoint of the t(14;18) in follicular lymphoma >30 years ago. Although inhibition of BCL-2 first proved valuable in lymphoid malignancies, clinical progress in myeloid malignancies lagged. Here, we summarize the basic biology and preclinical results that spurred clinical BCL-2 inhibition in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Response rates and toxicity for venetoclax in combination with standard AML agents, such as azacitidine, decitabine, and low-dose cytarabine, compare favorably with conventional induction chemotherapy. Durability of response requires further study.
The use of immunosuppressive therapy in MDS: clinical outcomes and their predictors in a large international patient cohort
Authors: Stahl Maximilian , DeVeaux Michelle , de Witte Theo , Neukirchen Judith , Sekeres Mikkael A. , Brunner Andrew M. , Roboz Gail J. , Steensma David P. , Bhatt Vijaya R. , Platzbecker Uwe , Cluzeau Thomas , Prata Pedro H. , Itzykson Raphaël , Fenaux Pierre , Fathi Amir T. , Smith Alexandra , Germing Ulrich , Ritchie Ellen K. , Verma Vivek , Nazha Aziz , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , Podoltsev Nikolai A. , Prebet Thomas , Santini Valeria , Gore Steven D. , Komrokji Rami S. , Zeidan Amer M.
Published: July 2018

Key Points

IST leads to a response in nearly half, and to RBC transfusion independence in about a third, of selected lower-risk MDS patients. Hypocellularity of bone marrow and the use of horse ATG plus cyclosporine are associated with increased rates of transfusion independence.
Integration of Germline Pharmacogenetics Into a Tumor Sequencing Program
Authors: Hertz Daniel L. , Glatz Andrew , Pasternak Amy L. , Lonigro Robert J. , Vats Pankaj , Wu Yi-Mi , Anderson Bailey , Rabban Erica , Mora Erika , Frank Kevin , Robinson Dan R. , Mody Rajen J. , Chinnaiyan Arul
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Evidence-based guidelines inform treatment decisions for patients for whom germline genetic information is available. Our real-time tumor sequencing program, which makes precision treatment decisions for patients with cancer, produces matched germline information, providing a unique opportunity to efficiently implement pharmacogenetics and benefit patients.

Methods

The germline genetic database from the Michigan Oncology Sequencing (MI-Oncoseq) program was searched for 21 clinically actionable polymorphisms in five cancer-relevant genes: TPMT, DPYD, CYP2C19, CYP3A5, and UGT1A1. Residual germline DNA was sent to an external Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments–approved laboratory for confirmatory genotyping. The medical records of MI-Oncoseq patients with actionable phenotypes were searched for receipt of relevant drugs and to determine whether having genetic information at the time of treatment would have led to a treatment recommendation.

Results

All nine variants in TPMT, DPYD, and CYP2C19 that were detected in MI-Oncoseq were confirmed by external genotyping. Genotype determinations could not be made for CYP3A5*3, UGT1A1*28, or UGT1A1*80. On the basis of retrospective assessment of 115 adult and pediatric patient records, 4.3% (n = 5) had a potentially clinically actionable phenotype for TPMT, DPYD, or CYP2C19 and received a relevant medication. After accounting for differences in adult and pediatric recommendations, three of these patients could have received a treatment recommendation at the time of prescribing.

Conclusion

Germline genotype determinations for TPMT, DPYD, and CYP2C19 can be used to make evidence-based treatment recommendations in MI-Oncoseq patients. Although the proportion of patients for whom recommendations can be made is small, this added value to MI-Oncoseq and patient care comes at no additional genotyping cost. Pharmacogenetic assessment should be integrated into tumor sequencing programs that genotype matched germline DNA; however, the complexity and additional cost of implementing pharmacogenetics remain challenging.
Plasticity of differentiated cells in wound repair and tumorigenesis, part I: stomach and pancreas
Authors: Burclaff Joseph , Mills Jason C.
Published: July 2018

For the last century or so, the mature, differentiated cells throughout the body have been regarded as largely inert with respect to their regenerative potential, yet recent research shows that they can become progenitor-like and re-enter the cell cycle. Indeed, we recently proposed that mature cells can become regenerative via a conserved set of molecular mechanisms (‘paligenosis’), suggesting that a program for regeneration exists alongside programs for death (apoptosis) and division (mitosis). In two Reviews describing how emerging concepts of cellular plasticity are changing how the field views regeneration and tumorigenesis, we present the commonalities in the molecular and cellular features of plasticity at homeostasis and in response to injury in multiple organs. Here, in part 1, we discuss these advances in the stomach and pancreas. Understanding the extent of cell plasticity and uncovering its underlying mechanisms may help us refine important theories about the origin and progression of cancer, such as the cancer stem cell model, as well as the multi-hit model of tumorigenesis. Ultimately, we hope that the new concepts and perspectives on inherent cellular programs for regeneration and plasticity may open novel avenues for treating or preventing cancers.
LOCATION OF MAGNETIC CONTACTS AND DEPTH ESTIMATES FOR THE MAGNETIC SOURCES FROM THE AEROMAGNETIC DATA OF MACEDONIA AND THRACE
Authors: Σταμπολίδης Α. , Τσόκας Γ.
Published: July 2018

In this work we present the processing that applied to digitised aeromagnetic data from Macedonia and Thrace. This processing was aiming the calculation of magnetic contacts and depths of burial of magnetic sources in the region of study. Three methods were applied for these calculations: the method of horizontal gradient, the method of analytical signal and the method of local wavenumber. All methods were successful in locating the deeper magnetic sources in basins and surface sources in regions with surface outcrops of the crystalline basement. Depending on the transformation of magnetic field we use as input for the methods of the horizontal gradient and analytical signal, we could calculate the minimum and maximum depths of burial for the magnetic contacts. The locations of magnetic contacts that were calculated for every method of analysis were combined in a map in order to help in the interpretation of proposed magnetic contacts
HISTORICAL EARTHQUAKES IN THE REGION OF LEFKADA ISLAND , IONIAN SEA - ESTIMATION OF MAGNITUDES FROM EPICENTRAL INTENSITIES
Authors: Fokaefs A. , Papadopoulos G. A.
Published: July 2018

Historical documentation of strong shocks for Lefkada Island, Ionian Sea, exists since the 16th century A.D. In this paper we establish a relation between magnitude and maximum intensity from twenty-nine instrumental events that hit the area in the past. Then, on the basis of historical documentary sources we reevaluate the intensities of strong historical earthquakes, their maximum intensity being observed on Lefkada in the time interval from AD1577 to 1911, recalculate their magnitudes on the basis of the magnitude/intensity relation and, finally, compile a new catalogue of historical earthquakes. The results obtained are of importance for the seismicity studies and seismic hazard assessment in the area.
SEISMICITY CRITERIA FOR THE REAL-TIME IDENTIFICATION OF FORESHOCKS IN THE CORINTH GULF
Authors: Orfanogiannaki K. , Papadopoulos G. A.
Published: July 2018

In the Corinth Gulf foreshock sequences occur as a rule within a time interval no longer than four months before the mainshock. If these precursory phenomena could be detected, then it would be utilized for the prediction of the mainshock. However, frequent swarms also characterize the Gulf of Corinth. Therefore, in a real time evaluation, the discrimination between swarms and foreshock sequences is of crucial importance. In this study we focus on establishing seismicity criteria to achieve such discrimination.
DETERMINATION OF FAULT PLANE SOLUTIONS USING WAVEFORM AMPLITUDES AND RADIATION PATTERN
Authors: Vamvakaris D. A. , Papazachos C. B. , Karagianni E. E. , Scordilis E. M. , Chatzidimitriou P. M.
Published: July 2018

In the present work a modified version of the program FPFIT (Reasenberg and Oppenheimer, 1985) is developed, in order to improve the calculation of the fault plane solutions. The method is applied on selected earthquakes from short period waveform data in the Mygdonia basin (N. Greece) as recorded by the permanent network of the Seismological Station of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki during the period 1989-1999. The proposed modification of the FPFIT program was developed in order to minimize the derivation of multiple solutions, as well as the uncertainties in the location of Ρ and Τ axis of the determined fault plane solutions. Compared to the original version of FPFIT the modified approach takes also into account the radiation pattern of SV and SH waves. For each earthquake horizontal and vertical components of each station were used and the first arrivals of Ρ and S waves were picked. Using the maximum peak-to-peak amplitude of Ρ and S waves the ratio Pmax/(S/\/2max+SE2max)1/2 was estimated, where S/Vmax and SEmax are the maximum amplitudes of the two horizontal components (N-S, E-W) for the S waves and Pmax is the maximum amplitude of the vertical one for the P- waves. This ratio for the observed data, as well as the corresponding ratio Prad/iS/Aad+SlAad)1'2 of the synthetic data was used as a weight for the determination of the observed and theoretical P-wave polarities, respectively. The method was tested using synthetic data. A significant improvement of the results was found, compared to the original version of FPFIT. In particular, an improved approximation of the input focal mechanism is found, without multiple solutions and the best-estimated Ρ and Τ axes exhibit much smaller uncertainties. The addition of noise in the synthetic data didn't significantly change the results concerning the fault plane solutions. Finally, we have applied the modified program on a real data set of earthquakes that occurred in the Mygdonia basin.
GRAIN SIZE AND MORPHOMETRICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF BOEOTIAN KIFISOS STREAM GRAVEL-BED AND THEIR GEOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE
Authors: Καρκάνας Α. Π. , Κοντόπουλος Ν. Σ.
Published: July 2018

This work studies the lithology, mean size, roundness, sphericity and form of gravels of Boeotian Kifisos river bed, in eleven stations of sampling in middlestream area. The lithology of gravels are limestone, sandstone, chert and igneous. Limestone percentage averages 78.89%, sandstone 11.40%, chert 6.48% and igneous 7.23%. The changes in litho logy with distance of transport is due mostly to influx of new material and partly to abration and breakage of less resistant lithologies (limestone, igneous, sandstone). The mean size of the gravels of all lithologies decreases with the distance of transport. This is due to mainly in the selective sorting because of the reduction of the river slope. The roundness according to Powers (1982) for limestone, sandstone, chert and igneous gravels is 3,81, 4,65, 2,13 and 3,01 respectively. The sphericity of the limestone, sandstone, chert and igneous gravels is 0,70, 0,66, 0,72 and 0,70 respectively. The arithmetic mean of sphericity of total of gravels is 0,69. The roundness is not related with the distance of transport. This suggests that this parameter has acquired the biggest values of degree of roundness before the first station of sampling. Also, the sphericity of the non-resistance lithologies (limestone, sandstone, igneous) does not show any relationship with distance. This suggests a breakage along the bedding in combination with anisotropic wear. On the contrary the sphericity of chert decreases with distance because it were chipped during transport. Boeotian Kifisos river has the tendency to produce more spherical and discoidal gravels than blade and prolate. Moreover the two first forms tend to decrease with the distance of transport while this does not happen with the remainder two forms.
FORAMINIFERAL RECORD OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES: PREEVAPORITIC DIATOMACEOUS SEDIMENTS FROM GAVDOS ISLAND, SOUTHERN GREECE.
Authors: Drinia H. , Antonarakou Α. , Tsaparas N. , Dermitzakis M. D. , Kontakiotis G.
Published: July 2018

The Messinian pre-evaporitic sedimentary succession of Gavdos island (Metochia section) is a nearly uninterrupted succession of marine sediments, dominated by finely laminated diatomaceous sediments, which are cyclically alternating with marlstone and white limestone beds. The purpose of this study is to analyze in detail the benthic and planktonic foraminiferal microfauna preserved in the sediments of this section. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of the planktonic foraminifera fauna allowed the recognition of seven bioevents, which have been astronomically dated for the Mediterranean. The base of the diatomitic succession in Gavdos Island is dated at 6.696 Myr, whereas its top at 6.0 Myr. Our results suggest that two environmental parameters are the most important factors that control the community structure of the benthic foraminiferal fauna: the food availability and oxygen concentration. In addition, local upwelling phenomena evidenced by signals from the benthic foraminifera and the distribution pattern of the planktonic G. bulloides may have played a role in the faunal density and composition
UPPER CRETACEOUS TRANSGRESSION OVER THE OPHIOLITES OF NORTHERN PINDOS
Authors: Αργυριάδης Ι.
Published: July 2018

At the ophiolithic overthrusted masses of Northern Pindos, east of Katara, outcrops of limestones are observed. Until now these outcrops are interpreted by tectonic inclusions inside the secondary tectonic contacts. Detailed analysis of these limestones showed that they are remainings of transgressions their age determined by the microfauna as upper Campanian - early Maastrichian. The limestone series ends upwards in a karstic surface supporting doleritic lava flows with essential thickness. In place Tragopetra we can observe that these lavas clearly intrude in the caves of the paleokarst. At the same section (Tragopetra), over this lava formation, the basic conglomerate (Auversian) of the mesohellenic sediments is found. Transgression of this age whas unknown until now in Greece, but is well known in South Anatolia and Near East. An important outcome of our research is that there is no ocean trench before the 806 overthrust but land with karstification of the limestones is emerged instead. The Pindos ophiolites overthrust is related to recent land creation and developed under epiglyptic conditions. Nature reality often differs to any models humans may imaginate!
PALAEOGRAPHIC EVOLUTION OF PINDOS BASIN DURING PALEOGENE USING CALCAREOUS NANNOFOSSILS
Authors: Ananiadis G. , Vakalas I. , Zelilidis A. , Stoykova K.
Published: July 2018

A different basin evolution is suggested between the northern and southern parts of the Pindos basin, based on biostratigraphic dating results. Characteristic nannofossils showed that flysch sedimentation in the whole basin started in the Paleocene and generally finished during the Eocene, with the exception of the Konitsa and Milia areas where sedimentation lasted until Early Oligocene. Although, basin depth increased southwards, Kastaniotikos and Sperchios faults affected the geometry of Pindos basin, creating ridges and troughs within the basin. Due to this segmentation of the basin, the continuity of the sedimentation in the northern part of the study area until Oligocene is suggested. Calcareous nannofossils recovered from this northern part indicate a Paleocene NP5 to early Cligocene (NP20-21) age. On the other hand, in the southern part, sedimentation of flysch was lasted until middle Eocene. According this model, sedimentation in the southern part, stopped during the middle Eocene, was followed by subaerial exposure and the migration of clastic sedimentation to the western part of Pindos zones (Pindos foreland basin of Ionian zone). At this time, in the northern part, a small-restricted basin was continuously active as a piggyback basin from upper Eocene to lower Oligocene and shallow deposits (slope and submarine canyon deposits, delta fan deposits) accumulated.
AGE DETERMINATION AND PALAEOGEOGRAPHIC RECONSTRUCTION OF PINDOS FORELAND BASIN BASED ON CALCAREOUS NANNOFOSSILS
Authors: Vakalas I. , Ananiadis G. , Kontopoulos N. , Stoykova K. K. , Zelilidis A.
Published: July 2018

The study area is part of the Pindos foreland (Underhill, 1985). Pindos foreland is a tertiary turbiditic foreland basin fill trending parallel to the external Hellenides and occupies Gavrovo and Ionian isopic zones (Aubouin, 1959). The age of Pindos foreland sediments is still a matter of discussion. B.P. (1971) proposed an early Miocene to middle Miocene age, explaining the presence of Oligocene fauna as a product of large scale erosion and reworking of older sediments during Miocene. IGSR&IFP(1966) suggested a late Eocene to early Miocene age for the basin fill while Fleury (1980), Leigh (1991), Wilpshaar (1995), Bellas (1997) assigned an Oligocene age. Avramidis et al (1999) proposes a middle Eocene to early Miocene age assessment, using nannofosil zones from three studied cross sections in the Klematia-Paramythia basin (middle Ionian zone). The determination of the sediment ages was based on the study of calcareous nannofossils, which came from almost 120 samples covering 11 geological cross sections. The nannofosil marker species that were found in the samples were classified using the biozones proposed by Martini in 1971. According to the age assessments arose from the studied samples, clastic sedimentation in the study area began in the Middle Eocene, with small differences among the basin. The end of clastic sedimentation seems to be at different times in different parts of the basin.
THE KARST IN ANO VLASSIA ACHAIA (GREECE) AND THE CONTRIBUTION OF OLONOS -PINDOS GEOTECTONIC UNIT ON ITS FORMATION
Authors: Τσουκαλάς Ν. , Παπαδοπούλου - Βρυνιώτη Κ.
Published: July 2018

The study area includes the Selinous river hydrologie basin on East Erimanthos (Olonos) Mountain, to close to Ano Vlassia village (N. Péloponnèse - Greece). It is formed at an altitude between 700 - 2.169 m and occ 'Dies an area 30 Km2. It belongs to the Olonos - Pindos geotectonic unit, which characterized by lithostratigraphic unevenness, intense folds, successive thrusts with NE - SW directions and transverse faults. Lithostratigraphic and tectonic conditions are accountable for a directed karst development with many karstic basic planes. The above research includes systematic survey in all karstic formations that were observed. Karrens, kluft karrens, shallow dolines and dry karst valleys are developed on the surface. Furthermore, an underground formation was found and composed by caves, gulfs and an underground karstic river. Above 25 karstic fountainheads were observed which gush from the limestones with a 100 m3/h (summer) maximum supply. The imperfect development of surface karst, the good development of underground karst, karstic fountainheads, hydnlogical network and vert, allow for the studied area to be classified to the Transitional type of karst Dy Cvijic (1926) or to Halbkarst by Grund (1903).
THE LAGOON OF VENICE : EVOLUTION IN TIME OF THE HYDROGEOMORPHOLOGICAL PROCESSES, IN THE WATERSTREAMS AND THE LAGOON OF VENICE (ITALY)
Authors: Marabini F. , Μερτζάνης Α.
Published: July 2018

This work depicts the evolution in time of the hydrogeomorphological processes and the human impact which from the historical era have contributed to the actual configuration of the Lagoon of Venice (northwestern Adriatic sea). Those natural hydrogeomorphological processes, in combination with the intense human interference, have led to the increase in the rate of occurrence of the phenomenon of the high level of tide, a phenomenon known as "acque alte", which is prominent today in the Lagoon area and the complex of the "sand islands" which are formed inside the Lagoon. This work also describes the measures prescribed and taken, according to environmental protection program (Mose), in order to deal more effectively with this undesirable hydrogeomorphological processes in the area o.'*he Lagoon of Venice.
Appropriate antibiotic management of bacterial lower respiratory tract infections
Authors: Feldman Charles , Richards Guy
Published: July 2018

Lower respiratory tract infections are the leading cause of infectious disease deaths worldwide and are the fifth leading cause of death overall. This is despite conditions such as pneumococcal infections and influenza being largely preventable with the use of appropriate vaccines. The mainstay of treatment for the most important bacterial lower respiratory tract infections, namely acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) and community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), is the use of antibiotics. Yet despite a number of recent publications, including clinical studies as well as several systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses, there is considerable ongoing controversy as to what the most appropriate antibiotics are for the empiric therapy of CAP in the different settings (outpatient, inpatient, and intensive care unit). Furthermore, in the case of AECOPD, there is a need for consideration of which of these exacerbations actually need antibiotic treatment. This article describes these issues and makes suggestions for appropriately managing these conditions, in the setting of the need for antimicrobial stewardship initiatives designed to slow current emerging rates of antibiotic resistance, while improving patient outcomes.
Redes, hierarquia e interdependência social nas relações de compadrio do século XVIII (Viamão, 1747-1769)
Authors: Aquino Israel Silva , Kuhn Fábio
Published: July 2018

Resumo: Este artigo investiga a formação de redes de compadrio na freguesia de Viamão do século XVIII, buscando investigar como estas reproduziam as relações de diferenciação, hierarquia e interdependência constituídas por indivíduos de famílias abastadas da região. Conforme aponta João Fragoso, a sociedade constituída no Brasil do período colonial foi marcada por uma "hierarquia social costumeira”, constituída por intrincadas relações entre indivíduos de diferentes estratos sociais. Assim, este artigo foi dividido em três partes: na primeira, apresentaremos o método adotado; a seguir, é realizada uma breve revisão a respeito dos estudos sobre o compadrio no Brasil. Finalmente, o mapeamento destas redes de ‘compadres’ foi realizado através da sistematização dos registros de batismo da região de Viamão, no período de 1747 a 1759, recorrendo-se às ferramentas conceituais da metodologia da Análise de Redes Sociais para fins de análise e crítica dos resultados.Abstract: This article investigates the formation of compadrazgo networks in the parish of Viamão in the 18th century. It focuses on how they reproduced dynamics of differentiation, hierarchy and interdependence constituted by individuals from families of the region. According to João Fragoso, the society constituted in Brazil from the colonial period was marked by a "customary social hierarchy", constituted by intricate relationships among individuals from different social strata. This article was divided in three parts: in the first, we will present the method adopted; next, is a brief review of studies on compadrazgo in Brazil. Finally, the mapping of these networks was carried out, through the systematization of baptismal records of the Viamão region from 1747 to 1759, and using the tools of the Social Network Analysis methodology to perform the analysis of the results.
A distância entre a cidade efêmera e a memória das pedras: arquitetura e hierarquia no Rio de Janeiro do período joanino
Authors: Pinto Carlos Eduardo Pinto de
Published: July 2018

Resumo: O artigo aborda o uso da arquitetura efêmera como forma de consolidação da sociedade de Corte no Rio de Janeiro durante o Período Joanino. Por meio de reflexões a respeito das origens barrocas desse recurso, se defende a existência de uma relação hierárquica entre a cidade ideal, manifestada nos aparatos efêmeros, e a cidade material. Esta, a cidade sombria, das indefinições físicas e sociais, dos ruídos, do mau-cheiro; aquela, a cidade iluminada, da ordenação simétrica e hierarquizada dos espaços e dos corpos, da música, do perfume. A comparação entre as duas, em busca de seus limites e interseções, determina a rota seguida pelo texto.Abstract: The article discusses the use of ephemeral architecture as means of consolidating the Court Society in Rio de Janeiro during the reign of Dom João. Regarding these manifestations in their dialogue with the Baroque, we defend the existence of a hierarchical relationship between the ideal city, manifested in ephemeral apparatuses, and the material one. This, the dark city, of the physical and social inaccuracies, of the noises and bad smell; that, the illuminated city, of the symmetrical and hierarchical ordering of spaces and bodies, of music and perfume. The comparison between both, regarding their limits and intersections, determines the route followed by the text.
Nobreza ibérica na Alta Idade Moderna: o mérito, a linhagem, os discursos
Authors: Aroucha Marcone Zimmerle Lins
Published: July 2018

Resumo: O presente texto pretende dar forma a uma análise acerca das implicações, por assim dizer, teórico-literárias da noção de nobreza construída na Península Ibérica Alto Moderna. A partir da leitura de produções discursivas de meados do século XVII, como o tratado de nobreza, a crônica de guerra e a documentação administrativa, buscaremos traçar correspondências que refletem um cultivo de topoi classicistas e de lógicas discursivas maturadas na cultura política portuguesa do Seiscentos. Nossas reflexões a respeito das referidas fontes terão em mira as compreensões sobre mérito e linhagem – no horizonte de nosso corpus, categorias não necessariamente excludentes entre si. De maneira que este nosso escrito constitui um exercício pouco exaustivo de sobreposição de modalidades discursivas que traduziram o ethos nobiliárquico da Época Moderna ibérica em geral e da lusitana em particular.Abstract: This text intends to draw an analysis of the theoretical and literary implications, so to speak, of the working concept of “nobility” in modern-age Iberian Peninsula. Through the reading of discourse pieces from the early seventeenth century, such as treatises on nobility, war chronicles, and administrative documents, we attempt to trace correspondence that showcases the cultivation of classicist topoi and of discourse fomented in the Portuguese culture of the sixteenth century. Our reflections regarding the sources in question take aim at the understanding of merit and lineage - not mutually exclusive categories in sight of the corpus we are working with. As such, this work of ours is a non-exhaustive exercise of overlapping discursive modalities which relay the noble ethos of the Iberian modern age, particularly that of Portugal.
School Principals’ and Teachers’ Problems related to the Education of Refugee Students in Turkey
Authors: Gokce Asiye Toker , Acar Erdal
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study is to determine the problems, the solutions and the suggestions of the school principals and teachers towards the Syrian refugee students in the primary schools in Turkey. The research group of the study included four school principals and six teachers. The research was conducted by qualitative methods. The results revealed that the school principals mostly live communication, adaptation, accreditation, absenteeism, psychological and financial problems related to Syrian refugee students. Teachers also have problems such as communication problems with these students. Principals have opened ‘support rooms’ for these students; have worked for adaptation of these students, have been in contact with the families. The teachers opened literacy courses and worked to socialize these students with their classmates. Both principals and teachers have primarily proposed the creation of specific curricula for these students and the activities to solve the problem of language and cohesion for these students.
A Study of Correlations between Perceived Supervisor Support, Organizational Identification, Organizational Citizenship Behavior, and Burnout at Schools
Authors: Uzun Tevfik
Published: July 2018

In this research, it is aimed to study the correlations between perceived supervisor supports (PSS), organizational identification (OI), organizational citizenship behavior (OCB), and burnout of teachers. The research was conducted from the perspective of social change and identity theories. The study group of the research consists of 234 teachers working in the public high schools in Giresun city center during the 2016. In order to collect data in the research, Perceived Supervisor Support Scale developed by Kottke & Sharafinski, Organizational Identification Scale developed by Mael & Ashforth, Organizational Citizenship Behaviors Scale developed by DiPaola, Tarter & Hoy, and "Burnout Scale" developed by Pines were used. The correlations between variables are tested with the structural equation model. According to the results, PSS positively affects the OI and OCB and negatively affects the burnout. OI positively affects the organizational citizenship behavior and negatively affects the burnout.  OI plays a partial mediation role in the correlation between PSS of teachers and their OCB and burnout level. The results contribute to the integration of social change and social identity theories in description of organizational behavior.
Prospective Preschool Teachers’ Academic Achievements Depending on Their Goal Orientations, Critical Thinking Dispositions and Self-Regulation Skills
Authors: Ozen-Uyar Rabia , Yilmaz-Genc Melek Merve , Yasar Mustafa
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study is to explain and predict prospective preschool teachers’ academic achievements depending on goal orientations they adopt, their critical thinking dispositions and self-regulation skills. Research sample constitutes of 265 prospective preschool teachers attending the Faculty of Educational Sciences in Cukurova University. Research data were collected with the 2x2Achievement Goal Orientations Scale, Self-Regulation Questionnaire and Critical Thinking Disposition Scale. Demographical information about prospective teachers’ gender, age, grade level and academic grade point averages were obtained with the personal information form. For the analysis of research data, One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and discriminant analysis were used. In this study; it was concluded that prospective teachers with high level of learning approach orientation, critical thinking disposition and self-regulation skills had higher levels of academic achievement. However, it was determined that distinguishing variables among prospective preschool teachers with low, medium and high level of academic achievement included learning approach, performance approach goal orientation and critical thinking disposition and self-regulation skills. Correct classification percentage of distinguishing variables according to prospective preschool teachers’ levels of academic achievement was determined as 48.8%. Considering the fact that prospective teachers’ achievement-goal orientations, critical thinking dispositions and self-regulation skills may increase their academic achievement and shape their future teaching performances, it is suggested to implement programs that will contribute to the development of such skills and orientations among prospective preschool teachers.
Accuracy of a Direct Progesterone Immunoassay
Authors: Shankara-Narayana Nandini , Zawada Shannon , Walters Kirsty A , Desai Reena , Marren Anthony , Handelsman David J
Published: July 2018

Background

Beyond the established role of serum progesterone measurement in the luteal phase of menstrual cycle to confirm recent ovulation, it is also increasingly used to detect premature luteinization during in vitro fertilization (IVF) hyperstimulation, where late follicular phase increase in serum progesterone is reportedly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Virtually all serum progesterone measurements in clinical and IVF practice use direct, nonextraction immunoassays, often in multiplex, high-throughput platform assays optimized for high, postovulatory, midluteal phase serum progesterone concentrations. However, the performance of direct progesterone immunoassays for smaller increases is not established.

Methods

We studied 254 women undergoing IVF hyperstimulation with serum progesterone around the time of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration, measured in each sample by a direct progesterone immunoassay (Beckman Coulter Access) and by LC-MS.

Results

Immunoassay overestimated serum progesterone in almost every sample with an increasingly high variability and deviation at lower concentrations (immunoassay <5 nmol/L, equivalent to LC-MS <2 nmol/L).

Conclusions

Immunoassay consistently overestimates serum progesterone levels so that low measurements (immunoassay <5 nmol/L) are too inaccurate to be used quantitatively. The utility of higher serum progesterone measurements by immunoassay and serum progesterone and other steroids measured by multiplex LC-MS profiling in predicting IVF pregnancy outcomes warrants further investigation. There is a need for caution in clinical diagnosis of premature luteinization based on increased late follicular phase serum progesterone measurements using direct progesterone immunoassay that consistently overestimates low serum progesterone concentrations.
A Novel System Control for Quality Control of Diagnostic Tests Based on Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Chan Maurice , Smirnov Arseny , Mulawadi Fabianus , Lim Priscilla , Lim Wen-Huey , Leong See Ting , Low Hwee Meng , Yee Mei Qi , Yeo Yong Qiang , Zhou Xin , Lee Charlie , Huang Wen , Welebob Louis , Wu Mengchu
Published: July 2018

Background

We describe a novel system control (SC) implemented in an automated AmpliSeq™-based next-generation sequencing (NGS)2 run that simultaneously acts as (a) an external positive/sensitivity control, (b) a spike-in QC for DNA extraction, and (c) a nontemplate control to detect exogenous DNA contamination.

Methods

Plasmids carrying wild-type tobacco mosaic virus sequence and a sequence with three designed mutations were synthesized and mixed, such that the mutations are present at 5% variant frequency in the mixture designated as SC. SC was used as a stand-alone sample and spiked into each sample in each run. A cell line–derived reference material, in both a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) sample and genomic DNA (gDNA), was sequenced in the same runs.

Results

By interpolation, 100 fg SC spiked in FFPE sample produced sequencing coverage equivalent to approximately 3 fg in the gDNA. In the SC-only sample, all three designed mutations were recovered around 5% as expected, while no significant reads of human genome were present. In samples with a common PCR inhibitor, coverage for both SC and target amplicons were eliminated. An inverse relationship between the coverage of SC and DNA input was observed. In clinical samples, the ratio of SC to the median coverage of sample can be used to indicate insufficient DNA input.

Conclusions

The SC is an elegant and comprehensive QC concept for NGS-based diagnostic tests.
A Quantitative Method for the Measurement of Dried Blood Spot Amino Acids Using Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Bloom Kaitlyn , Ditewig Meyers Gail , Bennett Michael J
Published: July 2018

Background

Measurement of amino acids in dried blood spots has been extensively used for the detection of newborns with various inborn errors of amino acid metabolism including phenylketonuria (PKU) and maple syrup urine disease (MSUD). Whereas blood spot amino acid measurement has been invaluable for initial diagnosis, the relative insensitivity of blood spot measurement has found limited use in lifelong monitoring of patients with these disorders. The work described here outlines the evaluation of blood spot amino acid analysis using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC©) for use in follow-up testing.

Methods

Dried blood spot amino acids were derivatized with a proprietary AccQTag® reagent and separated using UPLC. Plasma amino acids from dried bloods spots were obtained from 318 patient samples and compared to corresponding plasma samples measured using the same UPLC method.

Results

Dried blood spot amino acid concentrations were highly correlated but negatively biased vs plasma concentrations. Interassay imprecision studies using UPLC demonstrated a %CV for phenylalanine of 4.81%–16.07%, tyrosine 5.62%–20.16%, valine 4.23%–15.46%, leucine 8.3%–15.3%, and isoleucine 4.25%–16.80%. Intraassay imprecision studies using UPLC demonstrated a %CV for phenylalanine of 0.42%–3.4%, tyrosine 1.6%–7.85%, valine 0.14%–1.84%, leucine 0.28%–2.01%, and isoleucine 0.6%–2.65%. Blood spot amino acid concentrations were stable for at least 3 days at temperatures up to 65 °C.

Conclusions

This UPLC-based method can reliably measure clinically significant amino acids in dried blood spots.
Analytical and Clinical Evaluation of the NOWDiagnostics ADEXUSDx Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Test Using Whole Blood
Authors: Nerenz Robert D , Bell Jennifer R , Montes de Oca Nancy , Short Joann , Mims Theresa , Cleeton Patrick A , Daniel Moore J , Humphries Roger L
Published: July 2018

Background

Point-of-care (POC) urine qualitative human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) devices are used to rapidly assess pregnancy status, but many of these devices are susceptible to false-negative results caused by increased concentrations of hCG β core fragment (hCGβcf) that does not contain hCGβcf.

Methods

Purified hCG was added to hCG-negative heparinized whole blood to generate samples with known hCG concentrations, and the resulting samples were used to evaluate device sensitivity, low-end reproducibility, high-dose hook effect, intermediate range performance, acceptable sample volume, acceptable hematocrit range, and lot-to-lot variation. Device performance was also prospectively evaluated in 40 pregnant and 40 nonpregnant women aged 18–44 years in a hospital-based clinic or an academic hospital emergency department.

Results

All device observations were positive using a whole blood sample containing a plasma hCG concentration of 2.2 × 106 IU/L, and all device observations were positive from18 IU/L to 1.2 × 103 IU/L and from 2.5 × 104 IU/L to 2.2 × 106 IU/L. Three invalid results were observed in the intermediate range because of decreased control line intensity. The minimum sample volume was 30 μL, and maximum hematocrit was 46%. In 40 pregnant and 40 nonpregnant women aged 18–44 years, the device generated 100% concordance with urine qualitative and plasma quantitative test results.

Conclusions

The ADEXUSDx™ hCG test demonstrates acceptable performance for the determination of pregnancy status using capillary fingerstick samples.