bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physician Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Chagas Disease in Tabasco, Mexico
Authors: Berger Brandon A. , Bartlett Allison H. , Jiménez-Hernández Ricardo , Trinidad Vázquez Esmelin , Galindo-Sevilla Norma
Published: April 2018

We designed and implemented a survey of physician knowledge, attitudes, and practices with respect to Chagas disease in the state of Tabasco, Mexico. Seventy-eight public sector physicians from across the state responded via Research Electronic Data Capture, an online survey capture tool. Improved performance on knowledge-based questions (P < 0.01) and an increase in decisions to screen (P = 0.04) were associated with previous training specific to this disease. Our results provide important descriptive information regarding knowledge, attitudes, and practices among a group of public sector Mexican doctors and highlight the importance of Chagas disease–specific physician training for identification and, ultimately, treatment of patients affected by this disease.
Seizures as a Complication of Congenital Zika Syndrome in Early Infancy
Authors: Oliveira-Filho Jamary , Felzemburgh Ridalva , Costa Federico , Nery Nivison , Mattos Adriana , Henriques Daniele F. , Ko Albert I. , _ _
Published: April 2018

Zika virus transmission in Brazil was linked to a large outbreak of microcephaly but less is known about longer term anthropometric and neurological outcomes. We studied a cohort of infants born between October 31, 2015, and January 9, 2016, in a state maternity hospital, followed up for 101 ± 28 days by home visits. Microcephaly (< 2 standard deviations, Intergrowth standard) occurred in 62 of 412 (15%) births. Congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) was diagnosed in 29 patients. Among CZS patients, we observed a significant gain in anthropometric measures (P < 0.001) but no significant gain in percentile for these measures. The main neurological outcome was epilepsy, occurring in 48% of infants at a rate of 15.6 cases per 100 patient-months, frequently requiring multiple anti-seizure medications. The cumulative fatality rate was 7.4% (95% confidence interval: 2.1–23.4%). Health-care professionals should be alerted on the high risk of epilepsy and death associated with CZS in early infancy and the need to actively screen for seizures and initiate timely treatment.
Management matters: Testing a mitigation strategy for nitrous oxide emissions on intensively managed grassland
Authors: Fuchs Kathrin , Hörtnagl Lukas , Buchmann Nina , Eugster Werner , Snow Valerie , Merbold Lutz
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Replacing fertilizer nitrogen with biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) through legumes has been suggested as a strategy for nitrous oxide (N2O) mitigation from intensively managed grasslands. While current literature provides evidence for an N2O emission reduction effect due to reduced fertilizer input, little is known about the effect of increased legume proportions potentially offsetting these reductions, i.e. by increased N2O emissions from plant residues and root exudates. In order to assess the overall effect of this mitigation strategy on permanent grassland, we performed an in-situ experiment to quantify net N2O fluxes and biomass yields in two differently managed grass-clover mixtures. We measured N2O fluxes in an unfertilized parcel with high clover proportions vs. a fertilized control parcel with low clover proportions using the eddy–covariance (EC) technique over two years. Furthermore, we related the measured N2O fluxes to management and environmental drivers. To assess the effect of the mitigation strategy, we measured biomass yields and quantified biologically fixed nitrogen using the 15N natural abundance method. The mitigation management effectively reduced N2O emissions by 54 % and 39 % in 2015 and 2016, respectively. These reductions in N2O emissions can be attributed to the absence of fertilization on the clover parcel. Differences in clover proportions during periods with no recent management showed no measurable effect on N2O emissions, indicating that decomposition of plant residues and rhizodeposition did not compensate the effect of fertilizer reduction on N2O emissions. Annual biomass yields were similar under mitigation management, resulting in a reduction of N2O emission intensities from 0.42 g N2O-N kg−1 DM (control) to 0.28 g N2O-N kg−1 DM (clover parcel) over the two years observation period. We conclude that N2O emissions from fertilized grasslands can be effectively reduced without losses in yield by increasing the clover proportion and reducing fertilization.
Extreme water levels, waves and coastal impacts during a severe tropical cyclone in Northeast Australia: a case study for cross-sector data sharing
Authors: Mortlock Thomas R. , Metters Daryl , Soderholm Joshua , Maher John , Lee Serena B. , Boughton Geoffrey , Stewart Nigel , Zavadil Elisa , Goodwin Ian D.
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Severe Tropical Cyclone (TC) Debbie made landfall on the north Queensland coast of Australia on 27 March 2017 after crossing the Great Barrier Reef as a slow-moving Category 4 system. Groups from industry, government and academia collected coastal hazard and impact data before, during and after the event and shared this data to produce a holistic picture of TC Debbie at the coast. Results showed the still water level exceeded the highest astronomical tide by almost a metre. Waves added a further 16 percent to water levels along the open coast, and were probably unprecedented for this area since monitoring began. In most places, coastal barriers were not breached and as a result there was net offshore sand transport. If landfall had occurred two hours earlier with the high tide, widespread inundation and overwash would have ensued. This paper provides a case study of effective cross-sector data sharing in a natural hazard context. It advocates for a shared information platform for coastal extremes in Australia to help improve the understanding and prediction of TC-related coastal hazards in the future.
Forecasting experiments of a dynamical–statistical model of the sea surface temperature anomaly field based on the improved self-memorization principle
Authors: Hong Mei , Chen Xi , Zhang Ren , Wang Dong , Shen Shuanghe , Singh Vijay P.
Published: April 2018

Abstract. With the objective of tackling the problem of inaccurate long-term El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) forecasts, this paper develops a new dynamical–statistical forecast model of the sea surface temperature anomaly (SSTA) field. To avoid single initial prediction values, a self-memorization principle is introduced to improve the dynamical reconstruction model, thus making the model more appropriate for describing such chaotic systems as ENSO events. The improved dynamical–statistical model of the SSTA field is used to predict SSTA in the equatorial eastern Pacific and during El Niño and La Niña events. The long-term step-by-step forecast results and cross-validated retroactive hindcast results of time series T1 and T2 are found to be satisfactory, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of approximately 0.80 and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of less than 15 %. The corresponding forecast SSTA field is accurate in that not only is the forecast shape similar to the actual field but also the contour lines are essentially the same. This model can also be used to forecast the ENSO index. The temporal correlation coefficient is 0.8062, and the MAPE value of 19.55 % is small. The difference between forecast results in spring and those in autumn is not high, indicating that the improved model can overcome the spring predictability barrier to some extent. Compared with six mature models published previously, the present model has an advantage in prediction precision and length, and is a novel exploration of the ENSO forecast method.
“A Different Kind of the Same Thing”: The Early One-Act Plays of Susan Glaspell and J. M. Synge
Authors: Ben-Zvi Linda
Published: April 2018

Although critics have cited the influence of J. M. Synge's work on that of Eugene O'Neill and Djuna Barnes, his early one-act plays also influenced another Provincetown Player, Susan Glaspell. This article discusses the ways that Synge's diction, imagery, rhythms, pauses, and silences, as well as his poetic use of language in his plays In the Shadow of the Glen and Riders to the Sea are echoed in Glaspell's Trifles and The Outside.
“A Clannish Pride”: Eugene O'Neill's Eventual Embrace of His Irish Heritage
Authors: Farrell Herman Daniel
Published: April 2018

The plays of Eugene O'Neill dramatize acts of loyalty and honesty among members of Irish American families, from the early works (The Straw and Beyond the Horizon) to the last plays (Long Day's Journey Into Night, A Touch of the Poet, and A Moon for the Misbegotten). These virtues were not only featured in O'Neill's canon but also lived in his personal relations with kith and kin. O'Neill's embrace of his Irish heritage developed and matured over the course of several decades, from his teen years until his mid-fifties. He befriended fellow Irish writers O'Casey and Yeats and became a staunch supporter of the Irish Free State and eventually the Republic of Ireland. Over this long life's journey, O'Neill came to understand and believe that those key character traits were passed on to him via his Irish heritage, thus, encouraging him to embrace his “Irishness” with a certain “clannish pride.”
Research on the Use of Social Media Networks by Teacher Candidates
Authors: Bolat Yavuz
Published: April 2018

Social media networks are the most important product of the development of computer and communicationtechnologies that affect social life. Social media networks have become a driving force in social and culturaldevelopment, while providing social contact for people. This force has improved its sphere of influence oversocieties in many fields such as health, defense, banking, commerce, marketing and entertainment, especially ineducation, which sometimes have no relationship with each other. This study is a qualitative educational researchbased on content analysis of teacher candidates' research on using social media networks. The study's population iscomposed of 552 teacher candidates who are reached with the help of social media networks. A data collection tooldeveloped by the researcher in order to collect data was used in the research. A personal information sectioncontaining information on the participants and their use of social media networks was used in the first part of the datacollection tool while a form consisting of 7 semi-structured questions was used in the second part. Data wereanalyzed by using descriptive analysis and content analysis for the data obtained from data collection tool. Given thefindings of the study, it is concluded that more than half of teacher candidates participating in the research use socialmedia networks more than once every day; more than half of these candidates use social media networks for 2 to 4hours a day; they mostly use mobile instant messaging tools; the most popular social media networks teachercandidates are Instagram and Facebook; they mostly use social media networks in order to communicate with theirfriends; they attribute different meanings to social media networks and they regard social media tools as apedagogical value.
The Value Assimilation Effect Between University Professors and Their Students in the Classroom
Authors: Emmanuel-Aviña Glory , Delaney Harold D.
Published: April 2018

In the clinical, therapy context, it has consistently been found that while therapists’ value systems are stable, clients’values are less stable and become congruent with their therapists’ values over the course of psychotherapy (e.g.,Schwehn & Schau, 1999). This phenomenon is termed the Value Assimilation Effect (VAE). This study examined ifthe VAE occurs in the university context between professors and students, that is if students’ values assimilate totheir professors. The current study tested three main hypotheses: 1) students demonstrate value change over timewhile professors’ values remain relatively stable over time; 2) students’ attributes influence value change; and 3)students assimilate to their professor’s values. In a sample of 20 classrooms, 14 professors, and 414 students, it wasfound that students’ values did change over time, both for values-bases classes and for non-values based classes.Students’ attributes, specifically their initial commitment to values and religious commitment, were predictive ofvalue change with those more committed to values reporting less value change over the semester. Students werefound to assimilate their values to their professor’s values. This was influenced by class type (values versusnon-values based) and students’ belief in their professor’s ability to teach. Unexpectedly, professors’ impact onstudents’ religiosity was the most consistent and robust finding in this study. The magnitude and direction of changein students’ values were influenced by their professor’s level of religiosity. The benefits and concerns of valueassimilation are also discussed.
Cytological diagnosis of metastatic melanoma presenting as an isolated pleural effusion: A case report
Authors: Kosmas Konstantinos , Tsonou Anna , Mitropoulou Georgia , Mandilara Anastasia , Papadopoulou Olga , Salemi Eufrosyni
Published: April 2018

Malignant melanoma (MM) is a malignant melanocytic neoplasm that occurs mainly in the skin but it can also involve any tissue. It has the capacity to metastasize widely and quickly to various sites without any intermediate stops, sometimes many years after treatment of the primary tumor. It is almost impossible to predict which organ system will be invaded by melanoma from a given primary site. We report the cytomorphologic and immunocytochemical findings of a male patient with isolated pleural metastasis of MM without pulmonary parenchymal metastatic involvement after 10 years of progression-free survival. Pleural fluid cytology revealed epithelioid cells of variable sizes and configuration isolated or in clusters with abnormal hyperchromatic nuclei, irregularly-shaped nucleoli, abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm, multinucleated giant cells, intranuclear cytoplamic inclusions as well as many cytoplasmic melanin pigmented tumor cells. Immunocytochemical markers for melanoma HMB-45 and S-100 were positive. Metastasis of MM to pleural fluid is rare and diagnosing the disease by cytology is challenging and requires medical expertise as well as knowledge of clinical context and immunocytochemical staining evaluation.
Does Total Intravenous Anesthesia With Short-acting Spinal Anesthetics in Primary Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Facilitate Early Hospital Discharge?
Authors: Klavas Derek M. , Karim Azim , Lambert Bradley S. , Ferris Marley Sam , Delgado Domenica , Incavo Stephen J.
Published: April 2018

Introduction:

Our study assessed the effect of total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) with short-acting spinal anesthesia and aggressive day-of-surgery postoperative day 0 physical therapy (POD#0 PT) on hospital length of stay (LOS) in patients who underwent primary total joint arthroplasty.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review compared the hospital LOS of 116 patients who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty with TIVA and short-acting spinal blockade (“Updated protocol group”) with that of the control group of 228 patients who were under standard anesthesia (“Traditional protocol group”).

Results:

Both total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty patients in the Updated protocol group had markedly reduced LOS compared with those in the Traditional protocol group (1.5 ± 0.1 days versus 2.4 ± 0.1 days; P < 0.05 and 1.4 ± 0.1 days versus 2.3 ± 0.1 days; P < 0.05). A higher proportion of patients in the Updated protocol group received at least 1 POD#0 PT session compared with those in the Traditional protocol group.

Conclusion:

Total intravenous anesthesia combined with short-acting spinal anesthetics provided the following benefits for patients who underwent primary total joint arthroplasty: more day-of-surgery PT sessions and earlier discharge by nearly 1 full day.

Level of Evidence:

III.
Is Being Single a Risk Factor for Previously Undetected Abnormal Glucose Tolerance?
Authors: Wajahat Labeena , Uddin Raisa , Lai Andrew , Pombo Luisa , Barengo Noel
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND: Type II diabetes represents a chronic disease with costly consequences. It is important to identify all risk factors to allow patients the opportunity to counter its progression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between marital status and previously undiagnosed abnormal glucose tolerance (AGT) in a northern Colombian population.METHODS: Secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional screening study in a northern Colombian adult population ages 18-74 using healthcare insurance company data from 2014-2015. The main exposure was marital status, while the outcome was AGT. A descriptive analysis of the variables in the database was conducted, and chi-square analysis of categorical covariates and a t-test of continuous covariates were performed. Unadjusted and adjusted linear regression models were used to evaluate the association between marital status and AGT.RESULTS: Single individuals had a 20% decreased odds of having AGT compared to married individuals (odds ratio (OR) 0.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.7 - 1.0), but this association disappeared after adjusting for covariates (OR 1.0, 95% CI 0.7 - 1.2). There was a 40% increased odds of AGT in women compared to men (OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.1 - 1.8). Hypertension increased the risk of AGT by about 60% (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.2 - 2.1), while obesity was associated with an 80% increased odds of developing AGT (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.3 - 2.4).CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that screening for abnormal glucose tolerance may not be necessary in specific marital status groups.
An Exploratory Study on Customers’ Selection in Choosing Islamic Banking
Authors: Selvanathan Mahiswaran , Nadarajan Dineswary , Zamri Amelia Farzana Mohd , Suppramaniam Subaashnii , Muhammad Ahmad Muzammir
Published: April 2018

Islamic banking industry is growing very rapidly by offering high quality schemes where free interest and better customer services are provided. Strong Islamic banking movements is forcing the industry to come up with new strategy to compete the market. The purpose of this study is to determine and identify the factors that influence the consumers to choose Islamic bank products or services. Data is collected using non probability simple random sampling around Selangor area. The analysis shows that bank reputation, religious and cost benefit factors are significant which influence customers’ selection on Islamic banking. Bank reputation and cost benefit has positive relationship on choosing Islamic banking. Convenient is not significant factor of influence customers’ selection on choosing Islamic banking. As a conclusion, the study prove that religion shows negative relationship on choosing Islamic banking. This shows that religion is not the main factor but the risk of selecting a bank is important.
Gynecologic Serous Carcinoma: An Immunohistochemical Analysis of Malignant Body Fluid Specimens
Authors: Ren Shuyue , Klump William
Published: April 2018

Context.—

Evaluation of fluid specimens involved by serous carcinoma might potentially include PAX8, GATA3, Uroplakin II, SOX2, and SALL4 antibodies. Those markers are commonly employed for diagnosing carcinomas of various types, including urothelial malignancies and germ cell tumors. There have been no comprehensive immunohistochemical studies, to our knowledge, for those markers on fluid specimens involved by serous carcinoma.

Objective.—

To evaluate immunohistochemical markers PAX8, GATA3, SOX2, uroplakin II, and SALL4 in the diagnosis of high-grade serous carcinoma in fluid specimens.

Design.—

We examined 113 fluids (96 ascites specimens and 17 pleural fluid specimens) that were positive for carcinoma. Most (94 cases; 83.2%) consisted of high-grade serous carcinoma of Müllerian origin. Nineteen cases of non–high-grade serous carcinoma (including one case of low-grade serous carcinoma) of gynecologic origin were also included as anecdotal data.

Results.—

In 113 fluid specimens with positive results for carcinoma, including nonserous types, 99 (87.6%) had positive results for PAX8, 19 (16.8%) for GATA3; 19 (16.8%) for SOX2, 23 (20.4%) for uroplakin II, and 8 (7.1%) for SALL4. Of 94 fluids (83.2%) involved with high-grade serous carcinoma, 84 (89.4%) had positive results for PAX8, 18 (19.1%) for GATA3, 17 (18.1%) for SOX2, 22 (23.4%) for uroplakin II, and 8 (8.5%) for SALL4. Some of these specimens showed reactivity for more than one immunohistochemical marker.

Conclusions.—

Most fluids involving high-grade serous carcinoma showed positive results for PAX8, and some cases expressed GATA3, SOX2, uroplakin II, and SALL4. Serous carcinoma in fluids may be positive for immunohistochemical markers not thought of traditionally as associated with gynecologic malignancy, an important consideration in avoiding misdiagnosis.
Possibilidades socioambientais e interdisciplinares da cidadania a partir do que dizem alunos e professores de uma escola pública de ensino fundamental em Salvador-Bahia
Authors: Déjardin Isabelle Pedreira
Published: April 2018

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a cidadania na formação de alunos de uma escola pública de ensino fundamental do bairro do Cabula, em Salvador, Bahia. A pesquisa de campo foi realizada entre os meses de setembro a dezembro de 2014. Assim, foram aplicadas entrevistas com quatro professores das turmas do turno matutino dos Temas Transversais de Cidadania, Meio Ambiente e Ciência e Tecnologia; questionários mistos foram aplicados com um total de quarenta alunos selecionados entre as respectivas turmas – dez por turma. Os resultados apontaram desafios e possibilidades socioambientais a partir da interdisciplinaridade do tema proposto.
Gestão universitária a partir da narrativa de professores gestores de departamentos didáticos
Authors: Dewes Andiara , Bolzan Doris Pires Vargas
Published: April 2018

Neste texto apresentam-se resultados de uma pesquisa qualitativa, narrativa e sociocultural, que teve como contexto de pesquisa uma instituição de ensino superior pública e como sujeitos os chefes de departamentos didáticos. O foco do estudo foi a dimensão categorial gestão universitária. O objetivo do estudo foi compreender o processo de desenvolvimento da gestão universitária. Destacamos que a gestão universitária é constituída e impulsionada por meio dos vieses das políticas públicas, da gestão educacional acadêmica, das estratégias e políticas organizacionais, do viés modelo de gestão concebido pela instituição e do viés contextual social, cultural e histórico. Assim, é possível afirmar que atuar como gestor em uma IES implica em compreender os processos de gestão, logo, a maneira como cada um desses vieses permeia o cotidiano da instituição. A gestão universitária requer ir além das ações administrativas e burocráticas, configurando-se em um processo permeado por distintos elementos que culminam na manutenção dos processos de ensino e de aprendizagem.Palavras-chave: educação superior; gestão de departamento didático; professor gestor; narrativas socioculturais.
Conselho escolar e práticas na gestão democrática da escola pública
Authors: Oliveira Jerffeson Miguel de
Published: April 2018

Este artigo é resultado de uma pesquisa desenvolvida com gestores, integrantes de colegiados e docentes de uma escola da rede estadual de ensino do Município de Capitão de Campos/PI. A pesquisa compreende um estudo de caso com abordagem qualitativa, com temática voltada para o conselho escolar e para participação enquanto princípio norteador da gestão democrática. Seu desenvolvimento foi fundamentado nas ideias e concepções de Paro (2016), Lück (2009), Libâneo (2001) e Marques (1990). O objetivo geral da pesquisa consistiu em compreender o papel do conselho escolar nas práticas da gestão democrática. Os objetivos específicos foram refletir acerca de conceitos atribuídos à gestão democrática; analisar na fala dos entrevistados aspectos característicos da gestão democrática e identificar princípios e dimensões desse modelo de gestão. No tocante à problemática buscou responder como a participação no desenvolvimento de atividades, contribui para efetivação da gestão democrática no âmbito escolar. Os procedimentos técnicos para coleta de dados foram pesquisa bibliográfica e entrevista. A análise foi realizada por meio da categorização. Como resultado da pesquisa constatou-se que a participação ativa dos profissionais e da comunidade escolar no desenvolvimento de atividades contribui significativamente para que o modelo da gestão democrática constitua-se efetivo, seja pela influência nas tomadas decisões, seja pela ação direta do conselho escolar. Concluiu-se também, que a efetividade desse modelo de gestão constitui um mecanismo que possibilita desenvolver atividades voltadas para o pleno desenvolvimento do aluno, dos profissionais e da sociedade.Palavras-chave: gestão democrática; conselho escolar; participação.
Narcolepsy with cataplexy and hyperthyroidism sudden appeared after H1N1 vaccination
Authors: Leiva Silvia , Madrazo Jimena , Podesta Claudio
Published: April 2018

Narcolepsy type 1 (NT1) is a chronic sleep disorder, characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy and fragmented nocturnal sleep. It is caused by a hypocretin deficiency due to a significant reduction of the neurons producing it. In the last years, it has been postulated that an autoimmune mechanism would be responsible for the destruction of these neurons in those genetically predisposed patients. The increased incidence of narcolepsy after the pandemic H1N1 influenza vaccination campaign in 2009-2010 is known. We present below the case of an adult patient who, 10 days after receiving H1N1 vaccination, suffers a traffic accident after falling asleep. Subsequent studies revealed hyperthyroidism due to Graves disease. In spite of the treatment, the patient persisted with daily and disabling daytime sleepiness, sleep attacks and episodes of generalized muscle atony with preservation of consciousness. A nocturnal polysomnography and multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) were performed with a diagnosis of NT1. The particularity of this case is the presentation of 2 autoimmune diseases triggered by an H1N1 vaccine without adjuvant, so far there is only evidence of NT1 associated with vaccines with adjuvant and viral infection. The association of both entities has made us reflect on the autoimmune mechanism, reinforcing the theory of its role in the onset of the disease.
Analyzing mixing systems using a new generation of Bayesian tracer mixing models
Authors: Stock Brian C , Jackson Andrew L , Ward Eric J , Parnell Andrew C , Phillips Donald L , Semmens Brice X
Published: April 2018

The ongoing evolution of tracer mixing models has resulted in a confusing array of software tools that differ in terms of data inputs, model assumptions, and associated analytic products. Here we introduce MixSIAR, an inclusive, rich, and flexible Bayesian tracer (e.g. stable isotope) mixing model framework implemented as an open-source R package. Using MixSIAR as a foundation, we provide guidance for the implementation of mixing model analyses. We begin by outlining the practical differences between mixture data error structure formulations and relate these error structures to common mixing model study designs in ecology. Because Bayesian mixing models afford the option to specify informative priors on source proportion contributions, we outline methods for establishing prior distributions and discuss the influence of prior specification on model outputs. We also discuss the options available for source data inputs (raw data versus summary statistics) and provide guidance for combining sources. We then describe a key advantage of MixSIAR over previous mixing model software—the ability to include fixed and random effects as covariates explaining variability in mixture proportions and calculate relative support for multiple models via information criteria. We present a case study of Alligator mississippiensis diet partitioning to demonstrate the power of this approach. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of limitations to mixing model applications. Through MixSIAR, we have consolidated the disparate array of mixing model tools into a single platform, diversified the set of available parameterizations, and provided developers a platform upon which to continue improving mixing model analyses in the future.
Acceleration (Deceleration) Model Supporting Time Delays to Refresh Data
Authors: Carrillo González José Gerardo , Arámburo Lizárraga Jesús , Barbosa Santillán Liliana Ibeth
Published: April 2018

This paper proposes a mathematical model to regulate the acceleration (deceleration) applied by self-driving vehicles in car-following situations. A virtual environment is designed to test the model in different circumstances: (1) the followers decelerate in time if the leader decelerates, considering a time delay of up to 5 s to refresh data (vehicles position coordinates) required by the model, (2) with the intention of optimizing space, the vehicles are grouped in platoons, where 3 s of time delay (to update data) is supported if the vehicles have a centre-to-centre spacing of 20 m and a time delay of 1 s is supported at a spacing of 6 m (considering a maximum speed of 20 m/s in both cases), and (3) an algorithm is presented to manage the vehicles’ priority at a traffic intersection, where the model regulates the vehicles’ acceleration (deceleration) and a balance in the number of vehicles passing from each side is achieved.
Real Time Short-term Forecasting Method of Remaining Parking Space in Urban Parking Guidance Systems
Authors: Zhu Xiaobo , Guo Jianhua , Huang Wei , Yu Fengquan , Park Byungkyu Brian
Published: April 2018

Short-term forecasting of the remaining parking space is important for urban parking guidance systems (PGS). The previous methods like polynomial equations and neural network methods are difficult to be applied in practice because of low accuracy or lengthy initial training time which is unfavourable if real-time training is carried out on adapting to changing traffic conditions. To forecast the remaining parking space in real-time with higher accuracy and improve the performances of PGS, this study develops an online forecasting model based on a time series method. By analysing the characteristics of data collected in Nanjing, China, an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model has been established and a real-time forecasting procedure developed. The performance of this proposed model has been further analysed and compared with the performances of a neural network method and the Markov chain method. The results indicate that the mean error of the proposed model is about 2 vehicles per 15 minutes, which can meet the requirements for general PGS. Furthermore, this method outperforms the neural network model and the Markov chain method both in individual and collective error analysis. In summary, the proposed online forecasting method appears to be promising for forecasting the remaining parking space in supporting the PGS.
Dissecting the schistosome cloak
Authors: Adler Carolyn E
Published: April 2018

Two proteins required for the growth of a skin-like structure called the tegument in parasitic flatworms could be new targets for drugs to kill these parasites.
A public dataset of overground and treadmill walking kinematics and kinetics in healthy individuals
Authors: Fukuchi Claudiane A. , Fukuchi Reginaldo K. , Duarte Marcos
Published: April 2018

In a typical clinical gait analysis, the gait patterns of pathological individuals are commonly compared with the typically faster, comfortable pace of healthy subjects. However, due to potential bias related to gait speed, this comparison may not be valid. Publicly available gait datasets have failed to address this issue. Therefore, the goal of this study was to present a publicly available dataset of 42 healthy volunteers (24 young adults and 18 older adults) who walked both overground and on a treadmill at a range of gait speeds. Their lower-extremity and pelvis kinematics were measured using a three-dimensional (3D) motion-capture system. The external forces during both overground and treadmill walking were collected using force plates and an instrumented treadmill, respectively. The results include both raw and processed kinematic and kinetic data in different file formats: c3d and ASCII files. In addition, a metadata file is provided that contain demographic and anthropometric data and data related to each file in the dataset. All data are available at Figshare (DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.5722711). We foresee several applications of this public dataset, including to examine the influences of speed, age, and environment (overground vs. treadmill) on gait biomechanics, to meet educational needs, and, with the inclusion of additional participants, to use as a normative dataset.
Expression and characterization of a potential exopolysaccharide from a newly isolated halophilic thermotolerant bacteriaHalomonas nitroreducensstrain WB1
Authors: Chikkanna Arpitha , Ghosh Devanita , Kishore Abhinoy
Published: April 2018

The halophilic bacterial strain WB1 isolated from a hydrothermal vent was taxonomically characterized using multiple proxies, asHalomonas nitroreducensstrain WB1. When grown on malt extract/yeast extract (MY) medium, it produced large quantities of exopolysaccharide (EPS). The polymer was synthesized at a higher rate during the log and early stationary phases. The anionic polysaccharide is primarily composed of glucose, mannose, and galactose. The studied EPS was highly viscous and had pseudoplastic nature. The EPS was found to be a mixture of three polysaccharides under FT-IR, which makes it less labile to environmental diagenesis. It also has emulsifying and antioxidant activity along with the binding capacity to heavy metals. The EPS has unique and interesting physical and chemical properties, which are different from earlier reported exo-polysaccharides produced by different bacterial genus. This suggests that the extreme geological niches like hypersaline, hyperthermal, hypothermal, and oligophilic environments, which are not well studied so far, can offer extensive and potential resources for medical, biotechnological and industrial applications. The study clearly showed that the thermal springs from the temperate region can be a potent source of many such industrially important microbial genera and need further detailed studies to be carried out.
Geologic and anthropogenic sources of contamination in settled dust of a historic mining port city in northern Chile: health risk implications
Authors: Tapia Joseline S. , Valdés Jorge , Orrego Rodrigo , Tchernitchin Andrei , Dorador Cristina , Bolados Aliro , Harrod Chris
Published: April 2018

Chile is the leading producer of copper worldwide and its richest mineral deposits are found in the Antofagasta Region of northern Chile. Mining activities have significantly increased income and employment in the region; however, there has been little assessment of the resulting environmental impacts to residents. The port of Antofagasta, located 1,430 km north of Santiago, the capital of Chile, functioned as mineral stockpile until 1998 and has served as a copper concentrate stockpile since 2014. Samples were collected in 2014 and 2016 that show elevated concentrations of As, Cu, Pb, and Zn in street dust and in residents’ blood (Pb) and urine (As) samples. To interpret and analyze the spatial variability and likely sources of contamination, existent data of basement rocks and soil geochemistry in the city as well as public-domain airborne dust were studied. Additionally, a bioaccessibility assay of airborne dust was conducted and the chemical daily intake and hazard index were calculated to provide a preliminary health risk assessment in the vicinity of the port. The main conclusions indicate that the concentrations of Ba, Co, Cr, Mn, Ni, and V recorded from Antofagasta dust likely originate from intrusive, volcanic, metamorphic rocks, dikes, or soil within the city. However, the elevated concentrations of As, Cd, Cu, Mo, Pb, and Zn do not originate from these geologic outcrops, and are thus considered anthropogenic contaminants. The average concentrations of As, Cu, and Zn are possibly the highest in recorded street dust worldwide at 239, 10,821, and 11,869 mg kg−1, respectively. Furthermore, the contaminants As, Pb, and Cu exhibit the highest bioaccessibilities and preliminary health risk indices show that As and Cu contribute to elevated health risks in exposed children and adults chronically exposed to dust in Antofagasta, whereas Pb is considered harmful at any concentration. Therefore, an increased environmental awareness and greater protective measures are necessary in Antofagasta and possibly other similar mining port cities in developing countries.
Correlation between circulating cell‐free PIK3CA tumor DNA levels and treatment response in patients with PIK3CA‐mutated metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Kodahl Annette R. , Ehmsen Sidse , Pallisgaard Niels , Jylling Anne M. B. , Jensen Jeanette D. , Lænkholm Anne‐Vibeke , Knoop Ann S. , Ditzel Henrik J.
Published: April 2018

Liquid biopsies focusing on the analysis of cell‐free circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) may have important clinical implications for personalized medicine, including early detection of cancer, therapeutic guidance, and monitoring of recurrence. Mutations in the oncogene, PIK3CA, are frequently observed in breast cancer and have been suggested as a predictive biomarker for PI3K‐selective inhibitor treatment. In this study, we analyzed the presence of PIK3CA mutations in formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded, metastatic tissue and corresponding ctDNA from serum of patients with advanced breast cancer using a highly sensitive, optimized droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) assay. We found 83% of patients with PIK3CA mutation in the metastatic tumor tissue also had detectable PIK3CA mutations in serum ctDNA. Patients lacking the PIK3CA mutation in corresponding serum ctDNA all had nonvisceral metastatic disease. Four patients with detectable PIK3CA‐mutated ctDNA were followed with an additional serum sample during oncological treatment. In all cases, changes in PIK3CA ctDNA level correlated with treatment response. Our results showed high concordance between detection of PIK3CA mutations in tumor tissue and in corresponding serum ctDNA and suggest that serum samples from patients with advanced breast cancer and ddPCR may be used for PIK3CA mutation status assessment to complement imaging techniques as an early marker of treatment response.
Haploid genetic screens identify genetic vulnerabilities to microtubule‐targeting agents
Authors: Gerhards Nora M. , Blomen Vincent A. , Mutlu Merve , Nieuwenhuis Joppe , Howald Denise , Guyader Charlotte , Jonkers Jos , Brummelkamp Thijn R. , Rottenberg Sven
Published: April 2018

The absence of biomarkers to accurately predict anticancer therapy response remains a major obstacle in clinical oncology. We applied a genome‐wide loss‐of‐function screening approach in human haploid cells to characterize genetic vulnerabilities to classical microtubule‐targeting agents. Using docetaxel and vinorelbine, two well‐established chemotherapeutic agents, we sought to identify genetic alterations sensitizing human HAP1 cells to these drugs. Despite the fact that both drugs act on microtubules, a set of distinct genes were identified whose disruption affects drug sensitivity. For docetaxel, this included a number of genes with a function in mitosis, while for vinorelbine we identified inactivation of FBXW7, RB1, and NF2, three frequently mutated tumor suppressor genes, as sensitizing factors. We validated these genes using independent knockout clones and confirmed FBXW7 as an important regulator of the mitotic spindle assembly. Upon FBXW7 depletion, vinorelbine treatment led to decreased survival of cells due to defective mitotic progression and subsequent mitotic catastrophe. We show that haploid insertional mutagenesis screens are a useful tool to study genetic vulnerabilities to classical chemotherapeutic drugs by identifying thus far unknown sensitivity factors. These results provide a rationale for investigating patient response to vinca alkaloid‐based anticancer treatment in relation to the mutational status of these three tumor suppressor genes, and could in the future lead to the establishment of novel predictive biomarkers or suggest new drug combinations based on molecular mechanisms of drug sensitivity.
SALL2 represses cyclins D1 and E1 expression and restrains G1/S cell cycle transition and cancer‐related phenotypes
Authors: E. Hermosilla Viviana , Salgado Ginessa , Riffo Elizabeth , Escobar David , Hepp Matías I. , Farkas Carlos , Galindo Mario , Morín Violeta , García‐Robles María A. , Castro Ariel F. , Pincheira Roxana
Published: April 2018

SALL2 is a poorly characterized transcription factor that belongs to the Spalt‐like family involved in development. Mutations on SALL2 have been associated with ocular coloboma and cancer. In cancers, SALL2 is deregulated and is proposed as a tumor suppressor in ovarian cancer. SALL2 has been implicated in stemness, cell death, proliferation, and quiescence. However, mechanisms underlying roles of SALL2 related to cancer remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the role of SALL2 in cell proliferation using mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs) derived from Sall2−/− mice. Compared to Sall2+/+ MEFs, Sall2−/− MEFs exhibit enhanced cell proliferation and faster postmitotic progression through G1 and S phases. Accordingly, Sall2−/− MEFs exhibit higher mRNA and protein levels of cyclins D1 and E1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and promoter reporter assays showed that SALL2 binds and represses CCND1 and CCNE1 promoters, identifying a novel mechanism by which SALL2 may control cell cycle. In addition, the analysis of tissues from Sall2+/+ and Sall2−/− mice confirmed the inverse correlation between expression of SALL2 and G1‐S cyclins. Consistent with an antiproliferative function of SALL2, immortalized Sall2−/− MEFs showed enhanced growth rate, foci formation, and anchorage‐independent growth, confirming tumor suppressor properties for SALL2. Finally, cancer data analyses show negative correlations between SALL2 and G1‐S cyclins’ mRNA levels in several cancers. Altogether, our results demonstrated that SALL2 is a negative regulator of cell proliferation, an effect mediated in part by repression of G1‐S cyclins’ expression. Our results have implications for the understanding and significance of SALL2 role under physiological and pathological conditions.
Glykolester, Glykolether – Methode zur Bestimmung von 1‐Ethoxy‐2‐propanol, 1‐Ethoxy‐2‐propylacetat, Diethylenglykolmonomethylether, Diethylenglykolmonoethylether und Diethylenglykolmonobutylether in der Luft am Arbeitsplatz mittels Gaschromatographie [Air Monitoring Methods in German language, 2018]
Authors: Giesen Y. , Friedrich C. , Breuer D. , Fauss J. , Hebisch R. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2018

This analytical method is a validated measurement procedure for the determination and limit value monitoring of 1‐ethoxy‐2‐propanol, 1‐ethoxy‐2‐propyl acetate, 2‐(2‐methoxyethoxy)ethanol, 2‐(2‐ethoxyethoxy)ethanol and 2‐(2‐butoxyethoxy)ethanol in workplace air. With this method simultaneously airborne glycols in the gaseous state as well as particles are collected. Sampling is performed by drawing a defined volume of air through the sampling system GGP‐Mini consisting of a glass fibre filter and a charcoal tube connected downstream using a suitable flow‐regulated pump. The flow rate is set to 0.33 L/min with a recommended air sample volume of 40 L. The collected glycols are desorbed with a mixture of dichloromethane/methanol containing 1‐hexanol as internal standard and then analysed by means of gas chromatography using FID. The quantitative evaluation is based on calibration functions obtained by means of multiple‐point calibrations. The limit of quantification (LOQ) for the individual glycol esters or glycol ethers is 0.5 mg/m3based on an air sample volume of 40 L.
Tri‐n‐butylphosphat [BAT Value Documentation in German language, 2018]
Authors: Ochsmann E. , Weistenhöfer W. , Klotz K. , Drexler H. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated tri‐n‐butyl phosphate [CAS No. 
126‐73‐8
] in 2016 and derived a biological reference value (“Biologischer Arbeitsstoff‐Referenzwert”, BAR) for dibutyl phosphate in urine. Available publications are described in detail.

In a study with persons of the general population occupationally not exposed to tri‐n‐butyl phosphate a 95
th
 percentile of 0.67 µg dibutyl phosphate/l urine was measured. Further studies with not exposed people resulted in maximum levels of 0.45 µg and 0.26 µg dibutyl phosphate/l urine.

Taking these results together with other investigations into consideration, a BAR for tri‐n‐butyl phosphate of 0.5 µg dibutyl phosphate/l urine was established. Sampling time is at the end of exposure or the end of the working shift.
Triethanolamin [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2018]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) of triethanolamine [
102‐71‐6
].

Critical effect is the inflammation of the larynx observed in a 28‐day study in rats with a BMDL
05
of 14 mg/m
3
. An analysis of the studies with monoethanolamine, diethanolamine and 7 other studies with substances that cause inflammation of the larynx shows that the NOAEC in subchronic or chronic studies is lower than in subacute studies. Therefore, for a chronic exposure to triethanolamine at the workplace a decrease of the NOAEC cannot be excluded and the MAK value is lowered to 1 mg/m
3
for the inhalable fraction.

Triethanolamine remains assigned to Peak Limitation Category I for locally acting substances. An excursion factor of 1 is set by analogy with the other ethanolamines.
Diethylamine [MAK Value Documentation, 2016]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: April 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) of diethylamine of 5 ml/m
3
, considering all toxicity endpoints. Available unpublished study reports and publications are described in detail. The critical effect of diethylamine is atrophy of the olfactory mucosa in rats and mice in a 2‐year study. Since 2014 the Commission uses an empirical approach to set MAK values for substances with critical effects on the upper respiratory tract or the eyes. In the 2‐year study no NOAEC for atrophy of the olfactory mucosa was obtained. A Benchmark concentration of 4 ml/m
3
(BMDL05) as a substitute for a NOAEC is calculated from the data of the mouse, the most sensitive species. Therefore, the MAK value for diethylamine is lowered to 2 ml/m
3
. The chronic NOAEC for systemic toxicity is judged to be 16 ml/m
3
. As local effects are critical, the assignment to Peak Limitation Category I is confirmed. The excursion factor of 2 is set with a read‐across to cyclohexylamine. The momentary value is lowered to 5 ml/m
3
. Because there are no studies on developmental toxicity, the assignment to Pregnancy Risk Group D is confirmed as well. Diethylamine is not genotoxic and not carcinogenic. Skin contact may contribute significantly to systemic toxicity and diethylamine is designated with an “H” notation. Sensitization is not expected from the limited data.