Reference Values for Indexed Echocardiographic Chamber Sizes in Older Adults: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis.

BACKGROUND: Normalization of echocardiographic chamber measurements for body surface area may result in misclassification of individuals with obesity or sarcopenia. Normalization for alternative measures of body size may be preferable, but there remains a dearth of information on their normative values and association with cardiovascular function metrics. METHODS AND RESULTS: A total of 3032 individuals underwent comprehensive 2-dimensional echocardiography at Exam 6 in MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis). In the subgroup of 608 individuals free of cardiopulmonary disease (69.5±7.0 years, 46% male, 48% White, 17% Chinese, 15% Black, 21% Hispanic), normative values were derived for left and right cardiac chamber measurements across a variety of ratiometric (body surface area, body mass index, height) and allometric (height1.6, height2.7) scaling parameters. Normative upper and lower reference values were provided for each scaling parameter stratified across age groups, sex, and race or ethnicity. Among scaling parameters, body surface area and height were associated with the least variability across race and ethnicity categories and height2.7 was associated with the least variability across sex categories. CONCLUSIONS: In this diverse cohort of community-dwelling older adults, we provide normative values for common echocardiographic parameters across a variety of indexation methods.

Variations in indexation of left atrial volume across different races.

Background: Left atrial volume (LAV) has prognostic value. Guidelines propose indexation to body surface area (BSA), however studies demonstrate this can overcorrect for body size. Limited studies investigate indexation across different ethnicities. We sought to evaluate the effect of ethnicity on indexation. Methods: Using data from the World Alliance of Societies of Echocardiography (WASE) cohort, healthy subjects were classified by race as White, Black, Asian, or Other. Biplane LAV was indexed to traditional isometric measurements (BSA, height, weight, ideal body weight (IBW) and IBW derived BSA (IBSA)), as well as previously-derived allometric height exponents (2.7 and 1.72). Additionally, an allometric height exponent for our cohort was derived (linear regression of the logarithmic transformation of LAV = a(height)b) as 1.87. All indices were then assessed using Spearman correlation, with a good index retaining correlation of LAV/index to raw LAV (r∼1), while avoiding overcorrection by the index (r∼0). Results: There were 1366 subjects (White: 524, Black: 149, Asian: 523, Other: 170; median age 44 years, 653 females (47.8%)). In the entire group, BSA, IBSA, height1.87 and height1.72 performed well with retaining correlation to raw LAV (r > 0.9 for all), and minimising overcorrection to body size (r < 0.1 for all). On race-specific analysis, BSA overcorrected for body size in the White population (r = 0.128). Height1.72 minimised overcorrection for body size in all populations (r ≤ 0.1 for all races). Conclusion: Despite a cohort with normal BMI, there was still disparity in LAV indexation with BSA across races. Allometric height indexation, particularly using height1.72, is a possible solution, although further validation studies in BMI extremes are required.

Association between Isometric and Allometric Height-Indexed Left Atrial Size and Atrial Fibrillation.

BACKGROUND: Height-based indexations for the evaluation of left atrial (LA) volumes have been proposed as an alternative method to account for body stature when body composition is abnormal. The aim of this study was to derive reference values for these indexation methods and to examine their association with atrial fibrillation (AF). METHODS: A healthy population was randomly split into derivation and validation cohorts (n = 493 each). The derivation cohort was used to derive reference values for iso- and allometric height-indexed LA volumes. Echocardiography included measurement of maximal LA volume (LAVmax) and minimal LA volume (LAVmin). Associations between these measures and AF were investigated in the validation cohort. Cox proportional-hazards regression was performed, adjusting for CHARGE-AF (Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology Atrial Fibrillation) risk score. RESULTS: From 986 healthy subjects, allometric height-indexed exponents were determined to 1.72 and 1.56 for LAVmax and LAVmin, respectively. Upper reference values were determined to be LAVmax > 22.1 mL/m1.72 and LAVmin > 12.7 mL/m1.56. In the validation cohort, 41 patients (8%) developed AF during follow-up (median, 14.7 years). In unadjusted analyses, both isometric and allometric indexed LAVmax were associated with AF (hazard ratio, 1.07 [95% CI, 1.03-1.11; P < .001] and 1.11 [95% CI, 1.05-1.18; P < .001] per 1 mL/m and 1 mL/m1.72 increase, respectively) with equal C statistics of 0.63. Height-indexed LAVmin was also associated with AF, with higher C statistics than for LAVmax. All findings were consistent after multivariable adjustment. LAVmax > 22.1 mL/m1.72 posed an increased risk for AF (hazard ratio, 4.65; 95% CI, 1.83-11.86), but LAVmin > 12.7 mL/m1.56 carried a higher risk (hazard ratio, 6.33; 95% CI, 2.66-15.07). CONCLUSIONS: Both isometric and allometric height-indexed LA volumes are associated with AF in the general population. LAVmin is more strongly associated with AF than LAVmax regardless of indexation.

Transform DOI system into a science hub.

To bestow a worthwhile value to DOI assignations, I suggest the establishment of a unique persistent DOI database (for e.g., as a DOI hub, DOI library, or DOI indexer) in which all the DOI assigned by publishers and journals will be listed in one and same place with basics bibliographic metadata and complete citation information, including the DOI link itself, authors' names, manuscripts' titles, publishing source, date of publication, and ideally abstracts if available. As a result, when a DOI is searched in the DOI hub, full bibliographic information should be retrievable regardless of its status in the publishing source. Basic indexation information and metadata associated with published articles will be always accessible and findable independently from the publishing sources. A unique, general and long-term preserved DOI hub will make it easy to search, find and cite scientific literature from the various scientific fields even if a journal or publisher ceases its publishing activity.

A Systematic Review of Scaling Left Atrial Size: Are Alternative Indexation Methods Required for an Increasingly Obese Population?

BACKGROUND: Left atrial (LA) size indexed to body surface area (BSA) is a clinically important marker of cardiovascular prognosis. However, indexation using a scaling variable such as BSA has inherent flaws, particularly in an obese population. The aim of this study was to determine whether alternative indexation methods may more accurately scale for LA size. METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used to execute a structured search of medical databases, to identify articles discussing alternative methods of LA indexation in echocardiography. Articles that stratified indexed LA size by obesity class were also included. Two independent reviewers identified relevant articles and extracted baseline characteristics, alternative indexation methods, scaling variables, obesity class characteristics, and correlation coefficients. RESULTS: A total of 3,804 articles were found in the database search after removing duplicates. After abstract and full-text screening, 13 relevant articles were identified. Twelve studies used alternative methods of LA indexation, of which nine reported allometric indices. Seven of the included studies reported LA size by obesity class, of which six reported alternative indices. Correlation coefficients plotted for indexed LA size against absolute measured LA size showed that allometric indices (specifically to height) were more likely to maintain proportionality to body size compared with isometric indices such as BSA. Allometric indices were less likely to overcorrect for body size compared with isometric indices. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with isometric indexation to BSA, allometric indexation (specifically to height) improves scaling of LA volumes to maintain proportionality and avoid overcorrection for body size.

The association of echocardiographic parameters on renal outcomes in chronic kidney disease.

BACKGROUND: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often have structural abnormalities of the heart due to pressure and volume overload. The aim of this study was to evaluate associations between echocardiographic parameters and renal outcomes (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] slope and progression to dialysis) in patients with stage 3-5 CKD. METHODS: This longitudinal study enrolled 419 patients. Changes in renal function were assessed using the eGFR slope. Rapid renal progression was defined as an eGFR slope < -3 mL/min/1.73 m2/year, and the renal endpoint was defined as commencing dialysis. RESULTS: Increased left atrial diameter (LAD), ratio of left ventricular mass to body surface area (LVM/BSA), ratio of LVM to height2.7 (LVM/ht2.7), and ratio of observed to predicted LVM (o/p LVM) were associated with eGFR slope in an adjusted model, but left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was not. Furthermore, LAD ≥ 4.7 cm, LVM/BSA > 115 g/m2 in males and > 95 g/m2 in females, and LVM/ht2.7 > 48 g/ht2.7 in males and > 44 g/ht2.7 in females were correlated with progression to dialysis, but o/p LVM and LVEF were not. The maximum change in χ2 change to predict renal outcomes was observed for LAD, followed by LVM/BSA and LVM/ht2.7. CONCLUSIONS: A large LAD and increased LVM, regardless of how it was measured (LVM/BSA, LVM/ht2.7 and o/p LVM), were correlated with adverse renal outcomes in patients with CKD stage 3-5. LAD had superior prognostic value to LVM and LVEF.

Strategies for vegetative propagation and viral cleaning of a miniature ornamental pineapple hybrid

This study assessed and compared different methods for vegetative propagation of a miniature ornamental pineapple hybrid (ORN-MUT), seeking to determine the best method for production of plantlets, as well as for removal of the PMWaV viral complex from plants cultured in vitro, for production of healthy parent plants. Pineapple wilt is a disease that can cause large economic and is caused by a viral complex called Pineapple mealybug wilt-associated virus (PMWaV). For this, four propagation methods were evaluated (conventional, stem sectioning, micropropagation and etiolation of nodal segments). The time necessary for each method and the number of plants formed were assessed. Stem tips (0.5 mm) were cultured and indexed for three PMWaV types. Conventional propagation produced 17 plantlets per plant in 566 days, stem sectioning produced 2.3 plantlets per stem in 591 days, while the conventional micropropagation technique produced 1,284 plants after four subcultures in 778 days. Stems etiolated for 60 days showed peak production in the second subculture, with 1,224 plants. This method required 883 days to obtain plants with ideal size for transplantation to the field. In turn, stems etiolated for 120 days produced 935 plants at the end of four subcultures, with peak output in the third subculture, in which the plants could be cultivated in the field after 943 days. Conventional micropropagation and etiolation for 60 days were the best methods for production of plantlets of the ORN-MUT hybrid. The results of this work showed that the cultivation of shoot tips is an efficient strategy to remove the PMWaV complex and obtain healthy mother plants and can be a useful tool for other varieties of pineapple.

Simulation and Modeling of Telocytes Behavior in Signaling and Intercellular Communication Processes.

BACKGROUND: Telocytes (TCs) are unique interstitial or stromal cells of mesodermal origin, defined by long cellular extensions called telopodes (Tps) which form a network, connecting them to surrounding cells. TCs were previously found around stem and progenitor cells, and were thought to be most likely involved in local tissue metabolic equilibrium and regeneration. The roles of telocytes are still under scientific scrutiny, with existing studies suggesting they possess various functions depending on their location. METHODS: Human myometrium biopsies were collected from pregnant and non-pregnant women, telocytes were then investigated in myometrial interstitial cell cultures based on morphological criteria and later prepared for time-lapse microscopy. Semi-analytical and numerical solutions were developed to highlight the geometric characteristics and the behavior of telocytes. RESULTS: Results were gathered in a database which would further allow efficient telocyte tracking and indexing in a content-based image retrieval (CBIR) of digital medical images. Mathematical analysis revealed pivotal information regarding the homogeneity, hardness and resistance of telocytes' structure. Cellular activity models were monitored in vitro, therefore supporting the creation of databases of telocyte images. CONCLUSIONS: The obtained images were analyzed, using segmentation techniques and mathematical models in conjunction with computer simulation, in order to depict TCs behavior in relation to surrounding cells. This paper brings an important contribution to the development of bioinformatics systems by creating software-based telocyte models that could be used both for diagnostic and educational purposes.

Indexed plasma drug concentrations for drug adherence screening in hypertensive patients.

AIM: Due to its high sensitivity, qualitative plasma drug screening by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry may not be able to distinguish same-day drug intake from drug use on preceding days and cause misclassifications of drug adherence in hypertensive patients. Analysis of plasma drug concentrations may provide more accurate results. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We describe dose-dependent indexing of plasma drug concentrations for expected peak concentrations to define individual screening thresholds for same-day drug use. To explore its utility, plasma samples from 9 hypertensive patients without major comorbidity were prospectively analyzed on two occasions. All were on hydrochlorothiazide with either amlodipine (n=7) and/or valsartan (n=6) at different doses. Drugs were quantitated by mass spectrometry. Non-adherence was defined if an indexed drug concentration was below the expected trough level at 24-hour dosing interval. RESULTS: All patients were adherent by qualitative plasma screening (spectrometric sensitivity). On the first visit (random sampling time), mean plasma concentrations of the drugs were 102±70, 15.4±6.7 and 2529±1608ng/mL, and mean indexes 84±57%, 85±35% and 60±38%, respectively. Using the study criterion, non-adherence was suspected in three. Intraindividual cross-checking retained two. On the second visit (fixed sampling time), amlodipine concentration was 15.6±8.5ng/mL (88±52% after indexing). Two patients were non-adherent according to the study criterion. CONCLUSION: Indexing of plasma drug concentrations appears practicable and useful for drug adherence screening under clinical conditions. With this technique, same-day drug intake can be easily distinguished which reduces the risk of false positive results associated with qualitative drug screening.

Más Allá de la Indexación: Circuitos de Publicación de Ciencias Sociales en Argentina y Brasil / Para além da Indexação: Circuitos de Publicação das Ciências Sociais na Argentina e no Brasil / Beyond Indexing: Social Sciences Publication Circuits in Argentina and Brazil / Au-delà de l'Indexation: Circuits de Publication des Sciences Sociales en Argentine et au Brésil

Este artículo analiza 4459 revistas de ciencias sociales y humanidades de Argentina y Brasil con el fin de detectar segmentaciones en la circulación asociadas a su adscripción disciplinar, su acceso-visibilidad y su entramado político-institucional. El concepto de circuitos de publicación es propuesto como herramienta analítica para avanzar más allá de la lógica de la indexación y complejizar las referencias que asocian "excelencia" a una revista científica a partir de su inclusión en determinadas bases y repositorios. La información procesada indica una fuerte segmentación entre circuitos locales, con una mayoritaria cantidad de revistas editadas en papel, de escasa visibilidad y publicadas por universidades tradicionales, un pequeño número insertas en circuitos de la corriente principal y de acceso restringido y, finalmente, otro gran grupo caracterizado por el acceso abierto de circulación regional.

Este artigo analisa 4.459 revistas de Ciências Sociais e Humanas da Argentina e do Brasil, no intuito de detectar segmentações na circulação associada às respectivas filiação disciplinar, acessibilidade e visibilidade, assim como ao seu enquadramento político-institucional. O conceito de circuitos de publicação é proposto como ferramenta analítica para se avançar além da lógica da indexação e complexificar as referências que associam a "excelência" a uma revista científica, a partir da sua inclusão em determinados bancos de dados e repositórios. A informação processada indica forte segmentação entre os circuitos locais, com uma maioria de publicações impressas de visibilidade reduzida e publicados por universidades tradicionais, um pequeno número inserido em circuitos da corrente principal de acesso restrito, além de, finalmente, outro grande grupo caracterizado pelo acesso aberto em circulação regional.

The following article analyzes 4,459 social sciences and humanities journals in Argentina and Brazil in order to detect segmentation in circulation associated with their disciplinary affiliation, accessibility-visibility and their political-institutional framework. The concept of publication circuits is proposed as a tool of analysis for advancing beyond the logic of indexing and to problematize references associating "excellence" with a particular scientific journal based on its inclusion in certain databases and repositories. The information processed indicates strong segmentation among local circuits, with most journals of scant visibility and published by traditional universities in paper format, a small number of limited access inserted in mainstream circuits, and finally, another large group characterized by easy access and regional circulation.

Cet article analyse 4 459 revues de sciences sociales et humaines de l'Argentine et du Brésil en vue de détecter des segmentations de la circulation associées à leur affiliation disciplinaire, leur accessibilité-visibilité et leur cadre politico-institutionnelle. Le concept de circuits de publication est proposé en tant qu'outil analytique pour dépasser la logique de l'indexation et mettre en perspective les références associant "l'excellence" d'une revue spécifique à son inclusion dans des bases de données déterminées. Les informations recueillies nous ont indiqué une forte segmentation entre les circuits locaux (avec une majorité d'éditions papier à faible visibilité publiées par les universités traditionnelles), un petit nombre de revues à l'accès restreint insérées dans les circuits principaux, et finalement, un autre grand groupe caractérisé par un accès ouvert et une circulation régionale.

Análisis descriptivo de contenidos y registros administrativos de la Revista Criminalidad, 2008-2016 / Descriptive analysis of Revista Criminalidad Magazine's contents and administrative records, 2008-2016 / Análise descritiva dos conteúdos e registros administrativos da Revista Criminalidade, 2008-2016

Resumen Introducción: por haber cumplido 60 años de publicación de la Revista Criminalidad, se realizó un análisis de sus contenidos en el periodo del 2008 al 2016, el espacio de tiempo durante el cual se prestó atención a la adopción de los parámetros de las bases de datos de indexación y resumen. Método: se realizó una clasificación de artículos y autores, que permitiera una cuantificación por país, tipo de artículo, cantidad de trabajos y de autores, entre otros. La información fue analizada y tabulada en Excel; de igual forma, mediante el programa Data and Text Mining (DTM v.6), se procedió a realizar un análisis lexicométrico de los resúmenes. Resultados: la publicación aumentó la cantidad de artículos que salieron a la luz. Prevalecen los relacionados con investigaciones científicas, y las temáticas más abordadas son las que se refieren a la Policía Nacional y al ámbito policial, conectadas a la seguridad ciudadana y los homicidios; en segundo lugar están los temas de delincuencia más general y de inseguridad, con varios trabajos sobre realidades de Colombia, México, Chile y España. De igual forma, aumentaron la cantidad de registros administrativos de delitos que se presentan en la revista. Discusiones y conclusiones: dada la prevalencia de artículos en español, es necesario expandir la publicación al público de América y Europa; para tal fin, deben aumentar los artículos en inglés e impactar a los científicos angloparlantes.

Abstract Introduction: On occasion of the 60th issue of Revista Criminalidad since its very first edition, an analysis of its contents in the 2008 to 2016 period took place, this period being distinguished by having paid attention for the first time to indexation and summarizing database parameters. Method: a classification of articles and authors was made, this allowing for quantification by country, type of article, number of works and authors, among other criteria. The information was analyzed and tabulated in Excel; similarly, a lexicometric analysis of abstracts was carried out. Results: their publication helped increased the number of articles to come to light later, among which those relating to scientific research prevailed along with the most approached topics such as subjects relating to the National Police and the police environment connected to citizen security and homicides; in the second place there are other more generally discussed crime and insecurity-related matters and several works on the realities of Colombia, Mexico, Chile, and Spain. Likewise, there was an increase in the number of administrative records of crimes submitted in the magazine. Discussions and conclusions: given the prevalence of articles in Spanish, the publication should be expanded to audiences in America and Europe, thus articles in English should be increased for a higher impact English-speaking scientists.

Resumo Introdução: por ter cumprido 60 anos da publicação da Revista Criminalidade, uma análise dos seus conteúdos no período do 2008 até 2016 foi realizado. Nesse espaço de tempo prestou-se atenção à adoção dos parâmetros dos bancos de dados da indexação e do resumo. Método: uma classificação dos artigos e os autores, aquela que permitira uma quantificação pelo país, o tipo de artigo, a quantidade de trabalhos e os autores, entre outros, foi realizada. As informações foram analisadas e tabuladas no Excel; similarmente, por meio do programa Data and Text Mining (DTM v.6), realizou-se uma análise lexicométrica dos resumos. Resultados: a publicação aumentou a quantidade de artigos que vieram à luz. Prevalecem os resultados relacionados às pesquisas científicas, e as temáticas mais abordadas são aquelas do que falam da Policia Nacional e o âmbito policial, conectadas à segurança cidadã e aos homicídios; em segundo lugar, estão os assuntos de delinquência mais geral, com diversos trabalhos sobre realidades da Colômbia, do México, do Chile e da Espanha. Similarmente, aumentaram a quantidade de registros administrativos dos crimes que aparecem na revista. Discussões e conclusões: dada a prevalência dos artigos no espanhol, é necessário expandir a publicação ao público da América e da Europa; para tal efeito, devem aumentar os artigos em inglês e ter um impacto nos cientistas da língua inglesa.

50 Anos de DADOS - Revista de Ciências Sociais: Uma Introdução à Coleção* / 50 Years of DADOS - Revista de Ciências Sociais: An Introduction to the Collection / 50 Ans de DADOS - Revista de Ciências Sociais: Panorama de la Collection / 50 Años de DADOS - Revista de Ciências Sociais: Una Introducción a la Colección

RESUMO Neste artigo-depoimento o autor, responsável pela edição de DADOS - Revista de Ciências Sociais por mais de três décadas, realiza uma introdução ao acervo construído ao longo dos 50 anos de publicação da revista (1966-2016). As diferentes fases da revista são divididas pelas periodicidades adotadas ao longo destas cinco décadas (semestral, quadrimestral e trimestral) para analisar as principais mudanças no processo decisório, nos projetos editoriais e na recepção da revista pelos mais importantes indexadores nacionais e estrangeiros. A trajetória da revista é associada também a transformações mais amplas do contexto político, intelectual e da editoração científica.

ABSTRACT Written by the editor of DADOS - Revista de Ciências Sociais for over three decades, the following article-report provides an introduction to the archive formed over the 50 years since the journal's first publication (1966-2016). The various phases of the journal are divided into the periods adopted over the five decades (biannual, four-monthly and quarterly) in order to analyze the main shifts in the decision-making process, editorial projects and in the receiving of the journal by the main national and international indices. The path taken by the journal over the years is also linked to wider transformations to the political and intellectual context, as well as that of scientific publishing.

RÉSUMÉ Dans cet article-témoignage, l'auteur, responsable de la rédaction de DADOS - Revista de Ciências Sociais pendant plus de trente ans, propose un panorama de la collection constituée au long des 50 ans de publication de la revue (1966-2016). Les différentes phases de la revue sont divisées en fonction de sa périodicité (semestrielle, quadrimestrielle et trimestrielle) dans le but d'analyser les principaux changements intervenus dans les processus décisionnels, dans les projets éditoriaux et dans la réception de la revue par les systèmes d'indexation nationaux et étrangers les plus importants. Nous verrons que la trajectoire de la revue est également associée à des transformations plus amples du contexte politique, intellectuel et de l'édition scientifique

RESUMEN En este artículo-testimonio el autor, responsable de la edición de DADOS - Revista de Ciências Sociais por más de tres décadas, hace una introducción al acervo construido a lo largo de los 50 años de publicación de la revista (1966-2016). Las diferentes etapas de la revista se dividen por las periodicidades adoptadas a lo largo de estas cinco décadas (semestral, cuatrimestral y trimestral) para analizar los principales cambios en el proceso de decisión, en los proyectos editoriales y en la recepción de la revista por los más importantes indexadores nacionales y extranjeros. La trayectoria de la revista se asocia también a transformaciones más amplias en el contexto político, intelectual y de la edición científica.

High Order in a Self-Assembled Iridium(III) Complex Gelator Towards Nanostructured IrO2 Thin Films.

The preparation and characterization of a new metallogelator based on the IrIII discrete cyclometalated complex [(ppy)2 Ir(bpy)](CH3 CH2 OCH2 CO2 ) are reported, where H(ppy) is 2-phenylpiridine and bpy is 2,2'-bipyridine, which is used as an ancillary ligand. The compound is able to self-assemble in water in a range of concentrations between 3 % and 6 % w/w, creating a luminescent ordered supramolecular gel. The gel and xerogel architectures were investigated through polarized optical microscopy (POM), SEM and TEM microscopies coupled with powder X-ray diffraction. The gel supramolecular organization is characterized by columnar tetragonal strands, already present at high dilution conditions, of cations surrounded by counteranions. These strands, in turn, are self-assembled in an oblique columnar cell upon gelification. The xerogel thin films obtained upon complete dehydration maintained the gel supramolecular order and can be used as a precursor for the preparation of nanostructured IrO2 thin films.

A systematic database-derived approach to improve indexation of transpulmonary thermodilution-derived global end-diastolic volume.

Global end-diastolic volume (GEDV) has been indexed to body surface area (BSA). However, data validating this indexation of GEDV are scarce. Furthermore, it has been suggested to index GEDV to "predicted BSA" based on predicted body weight. Therefore, we aimed to identify biometric parameters independently associated with GEDV. We analyzed a database including 3812 TPTD measurements in 234 patients treated in the ICU of a German university hospital. GEDVI indexed to actual BSA was significantly lower than GEDVI indexed to predicted BSA (748 ± 179 vs. 804 ± 190 mL/m2; p < 0.001). GEDV was independently associated with older age, male sex, height, and actual body weight. In a regression model for the estimation of GEDV, age and height were the most important parameters: Each year in age and each cm in height increased GEDV by 9 and 15 mL, respectively. In addition to height and weight also age and sex should be considered for indexation of GEDV.

¿Estar indizados o no? Esa es la cuestión / To Be Indexed or not to Be Indexed? at is the Question

El Departamento Administrativo de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación Colciencias, de Colombia, lanzó la más reciente convocatoria del Índice Bibliográfico Nacional Publindex para evaluar las revistas científicas arbitradas correspondientes a 2016. En esta oportunidad se utilizó una modificación de la anterior metodología que mantuvo la clasificación (A1, A2, B y C) y los criterios internacionales, aunque aumentó la exigencia en algunos ítems. Incluyó también una valoración predeterminante para inclusión de las revistas en los sistemas de información bibliográfica: el escalafón en otros sistemas.

Pricing of alcohol in Canada: A comparison of provincial policies and harm-reduction opportunities.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Alcohol pricing is an effective prevention policy. This paper compares the 10 Canadian provinces on three research-based alcohol pricing policies-minimum pricing, pricing by alcohol content and maintaining prices relative to inflation. DESIGN AND METHODS: The selection of these three policies was based on systematic reviews and seminal research papers. Provincial data for 2012 were obtained from Statistics Canada and relevant provincial ministries, subsequently sent to provincial authorities for verification, and then scored by team members. RESULTS: All provinces, except for Alberta, have minimum prices for at least one beverage type sold in off-premise outlets. All provinces, except for British Columbia and Quebec, have separate (and higher) minimum pricing for on-premise establishments. Regarding pricing on alcohol content, western and central provinces typically scored higher than provinces in Eastern Canada. Generally, minimum prices were lower than the recommended $1.50 per standard drink for off-premise outlets and $3.00 per standard drink in on-premise venues. Seven of 10 provinces scored 60% or higher compared to the ideal on indexing prices to inflation. Prices for a representative basket of alcohol products in Ontario and Quebec have lagged significantly behind inflation since 2006. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: While examples of evidence-based alcohol pricing policies can be found in every jurisdiction in Canada, significant inter-provincial variation leaves substantial unrealised potential for further reducing alcohol-related harm and costs. This comparative assessment of alcohol price policies provides clear indications of how individual provinces could adjust their pricing policies and practices to improve public health and safety. [Giesbrecht N, Wettlaufer A, Thomas G, Stockwell T, Thompson K, April N, Asbridge M, Cukier S, Mann R, McAllister J, Murie A, Pauley C, Plamondon L, Vallance K. Pricing of alcohol in Canada: A comparison of provincial policies and harm-reduction opportunities. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:289-297].

Analysis of otorhinolaryngology, orthopedics and thoracic surgery journals / Análise dos periódicos da otorrinolaringologia, ortopedia e cirurgia do tórax

Objectives: To perform an extensive analysis of journals in Medicine III - CAPES, and specifically those in the areas of Otorhinolaryngology, Orthopedics and Traumatology and Chest Surgery. Method: An active search for the impact factors in the Journal Citation Reports, Scimago, their indexation in Scielo, Lilacs, Scopus and Google Scholar, and their stratification in WebQualis was done. Results: Forty-four journals with measured impact factors ranging from 3.006 to 0.128 were detected in the area of Otorhinolaryngology; however, only 26 of them (60%) had a Qualis measured by CAPES; in the stratification, no journal was detected in A1, three were A2 and nine B1. Three journals were located for Chest Surgery, with only one of them having a measured Qualis (A2) with a mean of 3.61. Sixty-seven journals were detected for Orthopedics and Traumatology, with an impact factor ranging from 4.699 to 0.156; Qualis was measured in only 38 of them (60%); there were three journal stratified as A1, seven as A2 and 25 as B1. Conclusion: The search for journals of higher impact induces authors to not publish in journals related to their area and facing more difficulties than investigators from other areas.

Objetivos: Realizar análise ampla dos periódicos da Medicina III - CAPES e, especificamente, os pertencentes à Otorrinolaringologia, Ortopedia e Traumatologia, e Cirurgia Torácica. Método: Busca ativa do fator de impacto dos periódicos das áreas citadas no Journal Citation Report e Scimago, sua indexação no Scielo, Lilacs, Scopus, Google Scholar e sua estratificação no WebQualis. Resultados: Para a Otorrinolaringologia foram encontrados 44 periódicos, cujo fator de impacto variou de 3.006 a 0.128; entretanto, apenas 26 deles (60%) tinham Qualis medido pela CAPES; nas estratificações encontrou-se nenhuma revista em A1, três em A2 e nove em B1. Para a Cirurgia Torácica foram localizados três periódicos, sendo que apenas um tinha Qualis medido (A2) com média de 3.61. Os resultados da busca para a Ortopedia e Traumatologia permitiu encontrar 67 periódicos, cuja variação do fator de impacto foi de 4.699 a 0.156; apenas 38 deles (60%) tinham Qualis medido; três periódicos tinham estratificação A1, sete A2 e 25 em B1. Conclusão: A busca por revistas de maior impacto faz com que muitos especialistas deixem de publicar em revistas de sua área enfrentando mais dificuldades que pesquisadores das outras áreas.

Qualis evaluation of medicine iii: analysis of anesthesiology and gynecology and obstetrics journals / Avaliação do qualis periódicos da medicina iii: análise dos periódicos de anestesiologia e ginecologia e obstetrícia

Objective: To know the current publication of Anesthesiology and Obstetrics and Gynecology subareas, to support the updating of Qualis Journals criteria in these specific subareas. Method: Cross-sectional, descriptive study in which was evaluated in quantitatively and qualitatively way the bibliographic production of Anesthesiology and Obstetrics and Gynecology subareas, from January 2010 to December 2012. Were investigated the values ​​of the impact factor; calculated (i) the number (n) and the percentage of journals in each stratum Qualis A1, A2, B1, B2, B3, B4 and B5, and (ii) the median values ​​and their extreme limits (minimum values ​​and maximum) and quartiles (p25; p50; p75; p90) of the impact factors in the different strata. Results: The bibliographic production of the three-year period 2010-2012 was published in 69 journals in Anesthesiology subarea and in 345 in Gynecology and Obstetrics. In Anesthesiology, 44% were within the limits of impact factor of superior A1, A2 and B1; in Obstetrics and Gynecology, 42.4% were in those limits and strata. Conclusions: Despite lagging behind by international standards, publications of Anesthesiology and Obstetrics and Gynecology showed tendency to improve the quality. In these sub-areas, the median of journals impact factor is beyond the limits defined by the area in the last assessment. Therefore, it must be reconsidered new indicators to assess this aspect.

Objetivo: Conhecer a publicação atual das subáreas Anestesiologia e Ginecologia e Obstetrícia, para subsidiar a atualização dos critérios Qualis-periódicos, específicos dessas subáreas. Método: Estudo de corte transversal, descritivo, onde avaliou-se, de modo quantitativo e qualitativo, a produção bibliográfica das subáreas Anestesiologia e Ginecologia e Obstetrícia, no período de janeiro de 2010 a dezembro de 2012. Foram definidos os valores do fator de impacto das revistas; foram calculados (i) o número (n) e percentual de periódicos em cada um dos estratos Qualis - A1, A2, B1, B2, B3, B4 e B5 e (ii) os valores de mediana e respectivos limites extremos (valores mínimo e máximo) e quartis (p25; p50; p75; p90) dos fatores de impacto nos diferentes estratos. Resultados: A produção bibliográfica do triênio 2010-2012 foi divulgada em 69 periódicos na subárea Anestesiologia e em 345 na subárea Ginecologia e Obstetrícia. Na subárea Anestesiologia, 44% dessa produção estava nos limites de fator de impacto dos estratos superiores A1, A2 e B1; na subárea Ginecologia e Obstetrícia, 42,4% estavam nesses limites e estratos. Conclusões: Apesar de aquém do desejado para os padrões internacionais, as publicações das subáreas Anestesiologia e Ginecologia e Obstetrícia mostram tendência para melhorar a qualidade. Nessas subáreas, a mediana do fator de impacto dos periódicos está além dos limites definidos pela área na última avaliação. Impõe-se, portanto, novos indicadores para a avaliação desse quesito.

Plasma exogenous creatinine clearance in clinically healthy cats: comparison with urinary exogenous creatinine clearance, tentative reference intervals and indexation to bodyweight.

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is considered to be the best indicator of overall kidney function. The major objectives of this study were to compare plasma exogenous creatinine clearance (PECC) with a reference method, to establish reference intervals (RIs) for PECC and to assess the effects of indexation of GFR to bodyweight (BW) in cats. PECC was compared with urinary clearance of exogenous creatinine (UECC) in six clinically healthy domestic shorthair cats (experiment 1). Tentative RIs were determined according to current guidelines and the effects of indexation to BW and of covariables on GFR were assessed in 43 clinically healthy cats of various breeds (experiment 2). PECC was 15% higher than UECC (P <0.01), but the two estimates were strongly correlated (r(2)=0.97, P = 0.001). RIs for PECC were 6.4-21.3 mL/min or 1.2-4.9 mL/min/kg. The absolute (i.e. non-indexed) GFR value was not dependent on BW. Thus, indexation of GFR to BW in cats would not standardize the GFR value, but could introduce bias in clinical interpretation. Significant effects of breed, plasma protein concentration and plasma albumin concentration on GFR were demonstrated. Plasma concentrations of urea and creatinine, when assessed separately, were also weakly correlated with GFR in healthy cats. These combined findings contribute to a better understanding of renal function assessment in cats.