bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Circulation and Land Surface Conditions in Current and Future Australian Heat Waves
Authors: Gibson Peter B. , Pitman Andrew J. , Lorenz Ruth , Perkins-Kirkpatrick Sarah E.
Published: October 2017

Understanding the physical drivers of heat waves is essential for improving short-term forecasts of individual events and long-term projections of heat waves under climate change. This study provides the first analysis of the influence of the large-scale circulation on Australian heat waves, conditional on the land surface conditions. Circulation types, sourced from reanalysis, are used to characterize the different large-scale circulation patterns that drive heat wave events across Australia. The importance of horizontal temperature advection is illustrated in these circulation patterns, and the pattern occurrence frequency is shown to reorganize through different modes of climate variability. It is further shown that the relative likelihood of a particular synoptic situation being associated with a heat wave is strongly modulated by the localized partitioning of available energy between surface sensible and latent heat fluxes (as measured through evaporative fraction) in many regions in reanalysis data. In particular, a several-fold increase in the likelihood of heat wave day occurrence is found during days of reduced evaporative fraction under favorable circulation conditions. The atmospheric circulation and land surface conditions linked to heat waves in reanalysis were then examined in the context of CMIP5 climate model projections. Large uncertainty was found to exist for many regions, especially in terms of the direction of future land surface changes and in terms of the magnitude of atmospheric circulation changes. Efforts to constrain uncertainty in both atmospheric and land surface processes in climate models, while challenging, should translate to more robust regional projections of heat waves.
Optimisation of grease application to railway tracks
Authors: Temple PD , Harmon M , Lewis R , Burstow MC , Temple B , Jones D
Published: October 2017

Trackside lubricators are designed to deliver grease to passing wheel flanges to reduce wheel and rail wear on curves. Ensuring that they are set up to deliver sufficient grease for the range of vehicles passing a site can be a challenge. For example, vehicle dynamics modelling and site investigations have shown that the wheels of passenger vehicles do not run as close to the rail face as those of freight vehicles, meaning that they are less likely to contact the grease and lubricate subsequent curves. To investigate the effects of different trackside devices, and the influence of parameters governing grease pickup, including lateral wheel displacement and pump durations, a bespoke test rig was built at the University of Sheffield. The rig used a scaled wheel, a short section of rail and a modern trackside lubricator set-up. Experiments involving different lateral wheel displacements and pumping durations were carried out, in addition to the visualisation of the size of the grease bulb. This showed how a grease bulb grows. It also indicated that a worn profile is likely to require greater wheel displacement to make contact with grease bulbs when compared to a new wheel profile. The experimental results showed that increasing pickup of grease can be expected when an additional component called a GreaseGuide™ was fitted to a regular grease delivery unit (GDU) on the rail. The efficiency of grease pickup was investigated, and test results exploring increasing pump durations have indicated a relationship between pickup and bulb size. To validate the use of the scaled rig, similar tests were carried out using a full-scale test rig. The full-scale results were compared to the experimental results of the scaled wheel rig. This showed that whilst there were differences between the two test rigs in absolute values and anomalous results, overall trends were the same on both test scales. The effect of temperature on bulb size and pumpability of grease was also investigated. This work can be extended further by using the same method to investigate other parameters that affect the lubrication of curves. This can lead to optimised lubricator set-up to ensure that the track is fully lubricated all the time.
Applications of Machine Learning in Cancer Prediction and Prognosis
Authors: Cruz Joseph A. , Wishart David S.
Published: October 2017

Machine learning is a branch of artificial intelligence that employs a variety of statistical, probabilistic and optimization techniques that allows computers to “learn” from past examples and to detect hard-to-discern patterns from large, noisy or complex data sets. This capability is particularly well-suited to medical applications, especially those that depend on complex proteomic and genomic measurements. As a result, machine learning is frequently used in cancer diagnosis and detection. More recently machine learning has been applied to cancer prognosis and prediction. This latter approach is particularly interesting as it is part of a growing trend towards personalized, predictive medicine. In assembling this review we conducted a broad survey of the different types of machine learning methods being used, the types of data being integrated and the performance of these methods in cancer prediction and prognosis. A number of trends are noted, including a growing dependence on protein biomarkers and microarray data, a strong bias towards applications in prostate and breast cancer, and a heavy reliance on “older” technologies such artificial neural networks (ANNs) instead of more recently developed or more easily interpretable machine learning methods. A number of published studies also appear to lack an appropriate level of validation or testing. Among the better designed and validated studies it is clear that machine learning methods can be used to substantially (15–25%) improve the accuracy of predicting cancer susceptibility, recurrence and mortality. At a more fundamental level, it is also evident that machine learning is also helping to improve our basic understanding of cancer development and progression.
Multicenter Validation of Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 Expression as an Independent Prognostic Marker in Localized Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ho Thai Huu , Kapur Payal , Eckel-Passow Jeanette E. , Christie Alana , Joseph Richard W. , Serie Daniel J. , Cheville John C. , Thompson R. Houston , Homayoun Farrah , Panwar Vandana , Brugarolas James , Parker Alexander S.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a chromatin remodeler, is implicated in the pathogenesis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). However, the effect of EZH2 on outcomes in localized ccRCC is unclear, and molecular biomarkers are not currently integrated into prognostic models or adjuvant therapy trials.

Methods

We performed Cox regression to evaluate the association of tumor-based EZH2 gene and protein expression with survival in three independent cohorts: a cohort from The Cancer Genome Atlas (n = 532), a cohort from University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (n = 122), and a cohort from Mayo Clinic (n = 1,338). Analyses were adjusted for the prognostic stage, size, grade, and necrosis (SSIGN) score as well as within low-, intermediate-, and high-risk SSIGN groups.

Results

Patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort with EZH2-high gene expression were 1.5 times more likely to experience overall death than patients with EZH2-low expression (95% CI, 1.1 to 2.3; P = .028). Patients in the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center cohort with EZH2-high protein expression were two times more likely to experience overall death than patients with EZH2-low expression (95% CI, 1.1 to 4.4; P = .034). Similarly, patients in the Mayo Clinic cohort with EZH2-high protein expression were 1.4 times more likely to experience overall death (95% CI, 1.2 to 1.7; P < .001). Patients in the Mayo Clinic cohort with EZH2-high protein expression were nearly two times more likely to experience RCC-specific death (95% CI, 1.5 to 2.6; P < .001); EZH2 protein expression was particularly prognostic among patients with low-risk SSIGN tumors (HR, 6.1; 95% CI, 3.4 to 11.1; P < .001).

Conclusion

EZH2 expression accurately predicts risk of RCC death beyond existing clinicopathologic models, particularly in low- and intermediate-risk SSIGN tumors. Further studies are required to incorporate molecular biomarkers into surveillance guidelines and adjuvant clinical trials.
Association Between Precautionary Behaviors and Breast Cancer–Related Lymphedema in Patients Undergoing Bilateral Surgery
Authors: Asdourian Maria S. , Swaroop Meyha N. , Sayegh Hoda E. , Brunelle Cheryl L. , Mina Amir I. , Zheng Hui , Skolny Melissa N. , Taghian Alphonse G.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

This study examined the lifestyle and clinical risk factors for lymphedema in a cohort of patients who underwent bilateral breast cancer surgery.

Patients and Methods

Between 2013 and 2016, 327 patients who underwent bilateral breast cancer surgery were prospectively screened for arm lymphedema as quantified by the weight-adjusted volume change (WAC) formula. Arm perometry and subjective data were collected preoperatively and at regular intervals postoperatively. At the time of each measurement, patients completed a risk assessment survey that reported the number of blood draws, injections, blood pressure readings, trauma to the at-risk arm, and number of flights since the previous measurement. Generalized estimating equations were applied to ascertain the association among arm volume changes, clinical factors, and risk exposures.

Results

The cohort comprised 327 patients and 654 at-risk arms, with a median postoperative follow-up that ranged from 6.1 to 68.2 months. Of the 654 arms, 83 developed lymphedema, defined as a WAC ≥ 10% relative to baseline. On multivariable analysis, none of the lifestyle risk factors examined through the risk assessment survey were significantly associated with increased WAC. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that having a body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m2 at the time of breast cancer diagnosis ( P = .0404), having undergone axillary lymph node dissection ( P = .0464), and receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy ( P = .0161) were significantly associated with increased arm volume.

Conclusion

Blood pressure readings, blood draws, injections, and number or duration of flights were not significantly associated with increases in arm volume in this cohort. These findings may help to guide patient education about lymphedema risk reduction strategies for those who undergo bilateral breast cancer surgery.
Adjuvant Chemoradiotherapy With Epirubicin, Cisplatin, and Fluorouracil Compared With Adjuvant Chemoradiotherapy With Fluorouracil and Leucovorin After Curative Resection of Gastric Cancer: Results From CALGB 80101 (Alliance)
Authors: Fuchs Charles S. , Niedzwiecki Donna , Mamon Harvey J. , Tepper Joel E. , Ye Xing , Swanson Richard S. , Enzinger Peter C. , Haller Daniel G. , Dragovich Tomislav , Alberts Steven R. , Bjarnason Georg A. , Willett Christopher G. , Gunderson Leonard L. , Goldberg Richard M. , Venook Alan P. , Ilson David , O’Reilly Eileen , Ciombor Kristen , Berg David J. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey , Mayer Robert J.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

After curative resection of gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma, Intergroup Trial 0116 (Phase III trial of postoperative adjuvant radiochemotherapy for high risk gastric and gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma: Demonstrated superior survival for patients who received postoperative chemoradiotherapy with bolus fluorouracil (FU) and leucovorin (LV) compared with surgery alone. CALGB 80101 (Alliance; Phase III Intergroup Trial of Adjuvant Chemoradiation After Resection of Gastric or Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma) assessed whether a postoperative chemoradiotherapy regimen that replaced FU plus LV with a potentially more active systemic therapy could further improve overall survival.

Patients and Methods

Between April 2002 and May 2009, 546 patients who had undergone a curative resection of stage IB through IV (M0) gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma were randomly assigned to receive either postoperative FU plus LV before and after combined FU and radiotherapy (FU plus LV arm) or postoperative epirubicin, cisplatin, and infusional FU (ECF) before and after combined FU and radiotherapy (ECF arm).

Results

With a median follow-up duration of 6.5 years, 5-year overall survival rates were 44% in the FU plus LV arm and 44% in the ECF arm ( Plogrank = .69; multivariable hazard ratio, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.78 to 1.24 comparing ECF with FU plus LV). Five-year disease-free survival rates were 39% in the FU plus LV arm and 37% in the ECF arm ( Plogrank = .94; multivariable hazard ratio, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.77 to 1.20). In post hoc analyses, the effect of treatment seemed to be similar across all examined patient subgroups.

Conclusion

After a curative resection of gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma, postoperative chemoradiotherapy using a multiagent regimen of ECF before and after radiotherapy does not improve survival compared with standard FU and LV before and after radiotherapy.
Clinical and Genetic Risk Prediction of Subsequent CNS Tumors in Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Report From the COG ALTE03N1 Study
Authors: Wang Xuexia , Sun Can-Lan , Hageman Lindsey , Smith Kandice , Singh Purnima , Desai Sunil , Hawkins Douglas S. , Hudson Melissa M. , Mascarenhas Leo , Neglia Joseph P. , Oeffinger Kevin C. , Ritchey A. Kim , Robison Leslie L. , Villaluna Doojduen , Landier Wendy , Bhatia Smita
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Survivors of childhood cancer treated with cranial radiation therapy are at risk for subsequent CNS tumors. However, significant interindividual variability in risk suggests a role for genetic susceptibility and provides an opportunity to identify survivors of childhood cancer at increased risk for these tumors.

Methods

We curated candidate genetic variants from previously published studies in adult-onset primary CNS tumors and replicated these in survivors of childhood cancer with and without subsequent CNS tumors (82 participants and 228 matched controls). We developed prediction models to identify survivors at high or low risk for subsequent CNS tumors and validated these models in an independent matched case-control sample (25 participants and 54 controls).

Results

We demonstrated an association between six previously published single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs15869 [ BRCA2], rs1805389 [ LIG4], rs8079544 [ TP53], rs25489 [ XRCC1], rs1673041 [ POLD1], and rs11615 [ ERCC1]) and subsequent CNS tumors in survivors of childhood cancer. Including genetic variants in a Final Model containing age at primary cancer, sex, and cranial radiation therapy dose yielded an area under the curve of 0.81 (95% CI, 0.76 to 0.86), which was superior ( P = .002) to the Clinical Model (area under the curve, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.66 to 0.80). The prediction model was successfully validated. The sensitivity and specificity of predicting survivors of childhood cancer at highest or lowest risk of subsequent CNS tumors was 87.5% and 83.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

It is possible to identify survivors of childhood cancer at high or low risk for subsequent CNS tumors on the basis of genetic and clinical information. This information can be used to inform surveillance for early detection of subsequent CNS tumors.
Orchestrated positioning of post-transcriptional modifications at the branch point recognition region of U2 snRNA
Authors: Deryusheva Svetlana , Gall Joseph G.
Published: October 2017

The branch point recognition region of spliceosomal snRNA U2 is heavily modified post-transcriptionally in most eukaryotic species. We focused on this region to learn how nearby positions may interfere with each other when targeted for modification. Using an in vivo yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaecell system, we tested the modification activity of several guide RNAs from human, mouse, the frogXenopus tropicalis, the fruit flyDrosophila melanogaster, and the wormCaenorhabditis elegans. We experimentally verified predictions for vertebrate U2 modification guide RNAs SCARNA4 and SCARNA15, and identified aC. elegansortholog of SCARNA15. We observed crosstalk between sites in the heavily modified regions, such that modification at one site may inhibit modification at nearby sites. This is true for the branch point recognition region of U2 snRNA, the 5′ loop of U5 snRNA, and certain regions of rRNAs, when tested either in yeast or in HeLa cells. The position preceding a uridine targeted for isomerization by a box H/ACA guide RNA is the most sensitive for noncanonical base-pairing and modification (either pseudouridylation or 2′-O-methylation). Based on these findings, we propose that modification must occur stepwise starting with the most vulnerable positions and ending with the most inhibiting modifications. We discuss possible strategies that cells use to reach complete modification in heavily modified regions.
Used in Acoustic Projects Calculation of Reflection Coefficient for End Opening of Channel without Flange
Authors: Тупов Владимир , Tupov Vladimir , Миронова А. , Mironova A.
Published: October 2017

The computational error analysis for coefficient of reflection of plane sound waves at the end of opening channel without flange performed by means of formulas commonly used in practice has demonstrated their unacceptability for accurate acoustic calculations, and limitations of the Helmholtz numbers’ range, where these formulas are applicable. In this work have been proposed calculated dependences, convenient for practical usage and enabling more accurately calculate by computer approach the considered quantity’s values in a whole range of existence of the plane waves in the channel.
Arrangement circuits of small-size of rotor-helical vibration technological systems for parts finish-strengthening
Authors: Лебедев Валерий , Lebedev Valeriy , Серга Георгий , Serga Georgy , Чаава Михаил , Chaava Mihail , Дёмин Георгий , Demin Georgy
Published: October 2017

Advantages and a field of the actual application of rotor-helical vibration technological systems are presented. Arrange-ment circuits of small-size rotor-helical vibration machines for parts finish-strengthening obtained through the methods of engineering geometry and computer graphic are shown.
Inner friction of cast alloy with nickel-chrome matrix after thermal treatment
Authors: Ворначева Ирина , Vornacheva Irina , Гадалов Владимир , Gadalov Vladimir , Макарова Ирина , Makarova Irina , Филонович Александр , Filonovich Alexander
Published: October 2017

The results of inner friction measurements of alloy with nickel-chrome matrix are considered, an inner friction temperature dependence upon thermal treatment are considered.
Optimization of Region’s Ecological Norms in Conflict with Industrial Sources’ Pollution Emissions
Authors: Федосов В. , Fedosov V. , Федосова А. , Fedosova A.
Published: October 2017

Instead of the widespread model for search and restriction of industrial sources’ excessive emissions, had been considered a problem related to a search of region’s protective norms, at which the sources’ parameters will be preserved. Emission sources’ priority is admissible when developing a new infrastructure of the region, and extends designer capabilities. The anticipated region has been divided into a number of zones with flexible borders, in which not uniform norms of environmental safety are valid. In the region has been distributed a group of emissions sources with different coordinates and variable pollution dispersion parameters. The conflict has been estimated by a numerical integral of the general function for the sources emissions exceeding over the region’s zones norms. The dispersion of pollutions emitted by the sources was modeled by functions of parabolic type, but more sophisticated presentations, forecast or monitoring data are also acceptable. To minimize the conflict criterion the Nelder-Mead procedure has been applied. In a numerical experiment has been demonstrated a steady decrease of the conflict, up to its full eliminating, that means the exceeding function’s unimodality relative to the optimization parameter (the norm vector) and, consequently, the suitability of the Nelder-Mead algorithm. Iterations recorded the criterion and optimization parameter change, the conflict estimation, and the exceeding function’s graphics. This has allowed select the region’s pollution norms to regulate the conflict degree. The conflict eliminating price is determined by the acceptability or economic assessment of changes in the region zones’ ecological status. In 2D‑3D graphics, the optimization results for the vector of region zones’ safety norms have been commented. The method allows manage the conflict by rather simple means, preserving the industrial potential of regions with a complex infrastructure.
Comparison of Intergenerational State Educational Standards, and a Project of Updated Educational Standard in the Field of Study “Environmental Engineering and Water Use” (Bachelor Degree Course)
Authors: Галямина Ирина , Galyamina Irina
Published: October 2017

The analysis of the state educational standards and exemplary educational programs of different generations is provided in this paper. The distinction between the state educational standards of different generations has been demonstrated. Necessity for introduction of new generations of standards and their regulatory support has been justified. Also have been demonstrated the structure, contents, merits and demerits of educational standards for each generation. An explanation for the need of consecutive modernization for the Federal educational standard of the third generation and approval of updated standards together with exemplary main educational programs as a single set of documents has been offered. The absence of professional competences in drafts of the updated standards has been explained. The draft of the updated Federal state educational standard in the field of study 20.03.02 has been presented.
Methodological Support of the Russian Language Course for Educational Institutions of Secondary Professional Education
Authors: Воителева Т. , Voiteleva T.
Published: October 2017

The article considers the main questions of the content of teaching Russian language in institutions of secondary professional education; describes features of construction of teaching materials.
Organizational-Methodical Model for the Implementation of the Concept of Geographic Education Development
Authors: Абатурова Валентина , Abaturova Valentina , Крылова О. , Krylova O.
Published: October 2017

The article outlines the main principles and technologies, as well as various organizational and methodological problems arising at the stage of preparation and implementation of the concept of the development of geographical education in the practice of educational activities.
Optimizing New-Vehicle Inventory at General Motors
Authors: Inman Robert R. , Frick Michael C. , Hitchman Thomas D. , Muiter Robert A. , Owen Jonathan H. , Takasaki Gerald M.
Published: October 2017

This paper describes how General Motors (GM) uses operations research to optimize its new-vehicle inventory. The solution answers two complementary questions: (1) what is the optimal number of vehicles to build? and (2) what are the optimal vehicle configurations? To answer the first question, for each vehicle model, we find the inventory that maximizes profit less inventory carrying costs, which differs from the standard approach of finding the inventory needed to satisfy a given fill rate. To answer the second question, we provide a decision support tool to help dealers order the best variations for each vehicle model using a set-covering philosophy, which differs from the standard approach of recommending the highest-selling variants. This paper describes the business processes surrounding these decisions, how the need for implementation and ongoing use guided our solution development, and the impact on the business.
IBM Cognitive Technology Helps Aqualia to Reduce Costs and Save Resources in Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Zadorojniy Alexander , Wasserkrug Segev , Zeltyn Sergey , Lipets Vladimir
Published: October 2017

This work addresses operational management optimization problems in wastewater treatment plants. We developed a novel technology that allows control of such plants, based on real-time sensor readings, with cloud computing at the front end and state-of-the-art operations research and data science algorithms at the back end. We used a constrained Markov decision process as the key optimization framework. We tested our technology in a one-year pilot at a plant in Lleida, Spain, operated by Aqualia, the world’s third-largest water company. The results showed a dramatic 13.5 percent general reduction in the plant’s electricity consumption, a 14 percent reduction in the amount of chemicals needed to remove phosphorus from the water, and a 17 percent reduction in sludge production. Moreover, results showed a significant improvement in total nitrogen removal, especially in low temperature conditions.
Introduction: 2016 Daniel H. Wagner Prize for Excellence in Operations Research Practice
Authors: Butler C. Allen , Robinson Randall S.
Published: October 2017

Competition for the 2016 Daniel H. Wagner Prize for Excellence in Operations Research Practice provided the six finalist papers featured in this special issue of Interfaces. The prestigious Wagner Prize—awarded for achievement in implemented operations research, management science, and advanced analytics—emphasizes quality and originality of mathematical models and clarity of written and oral exposition. Researchers from the Université Laval, The Forestry Research Institute of Sweden, and the SDC, Sweden, won the competition for their development of a highly successful algorithm and software to determine optimal routing for trucks operating in the Swedish forestry industry. The remaining finalist papers describe work to improve hospital staffing, dealer inventory of automotive vehicles, agricultural productivity through genetic modifications of crops, wastewater treatment, and real-time video ad selection.

Full presentation videos with slides are available in the INFORMS Video Library at https://www.informs.org/Resource-Center/Video-Library , and as electronic companions to the Interfaces articles.
Injectors should prioritise accuracy when performing botulinum toxin treatments
Authors: Baker Anna
Published: October 2017

Safe and effective outcomes with cosmetic injectables rely on the accurate placement of products in the correct anatomical planes. With increasing numbers of botulinum toxin type A procedures comes the need to be vigilant with injection techniques and dosing. Anna Baker stresses the importance of having up-to-date knowledge in this area, and highlights the value of injection devices in ensuring precision
Treatment outcomes with retinol peels in patients with ageing and problematic skin
Authors: Deaville Clare , Tomlinson Carley
Published: October 2017

Skin ageing is an intricate biological process that can be broadly classified into two types: intrinsic or chronological ageing, which is a physiological process, and extrinsic or photoageing, involving premature ageing as a result of cumulative exposure to environmental factors, such as ultraviolet radiation. Retinoids have been explored in the treatment of ageing and their use has resulted in histological and clinical improvement; however, most studies to date have been carried out on patients with photoaged skin. Although retinoids have previously shown a great deal of promise in the treatment of ageing and photodamaged skin, poor patient compliance due to side effects, including burning, scaling and erythema, has been an issue. To minimise side effects, new delivery systems are being developed. In particular, nanoparticles have shown potential to improve the stability, tolerability and efficacy of retinoids. It is this form of delivery system that PCA Skin has developed for its 4 and 6% retinol peels.
Filler Forum: highlights of a recent interactive clinical seminar
Authors: Senior Amy
Published: October 2017

On 4 September 2017, the Private Independent Aesthetic Practices Association launched a new event for practitioners, which promoted discussion and sharing of knowledge. Following its success, Amy Senior looks back at the best bits of the day, giving praise to the seminar's structure and speakers. She discusses the value of interactive learning and networking for professionals who often work in isolation
Paradox of success: why you should focus on the essentials to achieve excellence
Authors: Ratcliffe Jason
Published: October 2017

Every brand should be well known for the small number of tasks it completes to an exceptional standard. Taking on too many things at once can dilute the quality of your work and result in staff becoming overwhelmed. Jason Ratcliffe reveals why many roles become infective over time, and discusses how to prioritise and focus on actions that deliver the best possible results
Hydrosurgery as a safe and efficient debridement method in a clinical wound unit
Authors: Ferrer-Sola M. , Sureda-Vidal H. , Altimiras-Roset J. , Fontsere-Candell E. , Gonzalez-Martinez V. , Espaulella-Panicot J. , Falanga V. , Otero-Viñas M.
Published: October 2017

Objective:

Hydrosurgical debridement allows removal of non-viable tissue, preserving healthy tissues. This study was designed to analyse whether hydrosurgery, used in a clinical wounds unit, is an effective and safe method that may reduce debridement time.

Methods:

Patients' wounds had the following characteristics: wounds with devitalised tissue needing rapid debridement, wounds with cavities, or non-healing wounds. Hydrosurgical debridement uses a pressurised stream of saline (0.9% sodium chloride) and a vacuum around this stream to remove the devitalised tissue of the wound, preserving healthy surrounding tissues.

Results:

This prospective study comprised of 53 wounds from 39 patients. The wound aetiology included 39.7% arterial insufficiency, 22.6% pressure ulcers (PUs), 15.1% diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), 9.4% venous leg ulcers (VLUs), and 13.2% from other aetiologies. The percentage of wounds according the size was the following: 32.1% (<10cm2), 43.4% (10–49cm2), 15.1% (50–99cm2), and 9.4% (≥100cm2). Superficial wounds were 43.4% of the total and 56.6% of wounds had cavities. Pain associated with the hydrosurgery was mild to moderate. There were no hydrosurgery-related adverse events. For effective debridement, the required sessions were as follows: one procedure (73.6%), two procedures (18.9%) and three procedures (7.5%). There was a statistical significant direct correlation (r=0.307) between the number of required sessions and wound size. All patients improved in a week (>80% of granulation tissue).

Conclusion:

We demonstrate that hydrosurgery is an effective and rapid debridement method that can be used safely in the outpatient setting.
Negative pressure wound therapy versus gauze dressings for the treatment of contaminated traumatic wounds
Authors: Kaushik D , Joshi N , Kumar R , Gaba S , Sapra R , Kumar K
Published: October 2017

Objective:

This compares hospital suction negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) with conventional gauze dressings in traumatic soft-tissue injury at a tertiary care centre.

Methods:

A prospective control study was conducted between September 2012 and November 2014. Patients with one or more traumatic soft-tissue injuries with contaminated wounds were allocated to either a test group (received NPWT) or control group (received conventional gauze). Wounds were assessed by two orthopaedic surgeons. If grade A was achieved, the wound was covered with split-thickness skin graft, flap or delayed primary closure; otherwise, revision debridement and NPWT/saline gauze dressings were applied. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation and proportions) were used to summarise the study variables. The 95% confidence intervals (CI) for difference of mean were used. Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used to observe an association between the qualitative data and outcome variables. Unpaired T-Test and Mann–Whitney U test were used for analysis of the quantitative data. A p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 104 patients were included. The mean number of dressings per patient was significantly lower in the NPWT group (3.4) than in the control group (20.7) (p<0.001). The time between injury and complete closure (12.5 versus 21.4 days) as well as duration of hospital stay (17.3 versus 23.8 days) was significantly less in the NPWT group (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

NPWT has a role in healing traumatic wounds and can be delivered effectively through hospital suction NPWT, which can also reduce the cost of therapy. We recommend its regular use in all patients presenting with post-traumatic, soft-tissue injuries when primary coverage is not possible.
Structured zinc oxide dressing for secondary intention wounds
Authors: Gao A.L. , Cole J.G. , Woolsey Z.T. , Stoecker W.V.
Published: October 2017

Objective:

Inexpensive methods for more rapid healing of secondary intention wounds are sought. This pilot study measured the wound healing rate for a new zinc oxide structured dressing technique.

Method:

In this study, we included the three patients with the largest wounds with onset during a one month period. A 3-ply gauze was cut and placed in the centre of each wound, leaving a 3-5mm rim of the wound exposed to the zinc gauze. The central gauze was soaked with 0.9% saline solution and the entire wound area was covered with 3 layers of Unna zinc oxide dressing. The central gauze size was modified to fit as the wound healed and the size changed. The wound was photographed at each visit and wound areas were obtained using best-fit ellipses.

Results:

The average wound closure rate is reported in the three wounds as 21.73mm2 per day. The scalp wound healed at a rate of 21.45mm2 per day.; the spider bite wound healed at a rate of 28.92mm2 per day; and the thigh wound healed at a rate of 14.81mm2 per day.

Conclusion:

Healing rates for the zinc gauze method exceed those previously reported for full-thickness wounds healing by secondary intention. Additional study of the new technique with more patients is needed before conclusions relevant to clinical practice can be made.
The genus Dioscore Warren, 1907: two new species and analysis of characters spread (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Geometrinae)
Authors: Lindt Aare , Lennuk Lennart , Viidalepp Jaan
Published: October 2017

The genus Dioscore Warren, 1907 is reviewed. Diagnostic characters are listed for the genus and species included, the male genitalia are described for the first time for seven species and the female genitalia for three species. Two new species are described from Papua Indonesia: Dioscore kirke Lindt, Lennuk & Viidalepp, sp. nov. and Dioscore vilu Lindt, Lennuk & Viidalepp, sp. nov. The genus with its ten species is endemic to New Guinea and nearby islands; its taxonomic affinities are discussed.
Tools, Strategies & Models for Incorporating Software Quality Assurance in Risk Oriented Testing
Authors: Malik Vinitaita , Singh Sukhdip
Published: October 2017

Evolution of software is cumbersome process and also needs many iterations of software testing for satisfying some quality criteria. Software quality assurance activities must be effectively used for the proper software quality management and to achieve good product quality .Effective quality management is related to Value Engineering and Risk Management. In the present paper we will study relevance of quality assurance tools, strategies and models while doing risk based testing for the proper product function orientation .By analysing risks we can get to know how much we need to do the testing of software and further can assure the software quality.
Analysis of Clone Detection Approaches in Static Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Lalar Sacachin , Bhushan Shashi , Surender Surender
Published: October 2017

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are developing very fast in the wireless networks. The wireless sensor network has the characteristics of limited memory, small size and limited battery. WSNs are vulnerable to the different types of attacks due to its characteristics. One of the attacks is clone node attack in which attacker capture the nodes from the network and stoles the information from it and replicates it in the network. From the clone nodes, the attacker can easily launch the different type of attacks in the network. To detect the clone node, different methods has been implemented .Each method having advantages and limitations. In the this paper, we explain the different methods to detect the clone nodes in the static wireless sensor network and compare their performance based on the communication cost and memory.
A Study on Machine Learning in Big Data
Authors: Dhanapriya L. , MANJU Dr. S.
Published: October 2017

In the recent development of IT technology, the capacity of data has surpassed the zettabyte, and improving the efficiency of business is done by increasing the ability of predictive through an efficient analysis on these data which has emerged as an issue in the current society. Now the market needs for methods that are capable of extracting valuable information from large data sets. Recently big data is becoming the focus of attention, and using any of the machine learning techniques to extract the valuable information from the huge data of complex structures has become a concern yet an urgent problem to resolve. The aim of this work is to provide a better understanding of this Machine Learning technique for discovering interesting patterns and introduces some machine learning algorithms to explore the developing trend.
A Comparative Study and Analysis of EZW and SPIHT methods for Wavelet based Image Compression
Authors: DUDHAGARA CHETAN R. , PATEL MAYUR M.
Published: October 2017

In recent years there has been widely increase the use of digital media everywhere. To increase the use of digital media, there is a huge problem of storage, manipulation and transmission of data over the internet. These digital media such as image, audio and video require large memory space. So it is necessary to compress the digital data to require less memory space and less bandwidth to transmission of data over network. Image compressions techniques are used to compress the data for reduce the storage requirement. It plays an important role for transfer of data such as image over the network. Two methods are used in this paper on Barbara image. This compression study is performed by using Set Partitioning In Hierarchical Trees (SPIHT) and Embedded Zero tree Wavelet (EZW) compression techniques. There are many parameters are used to compare this techniques. Mean Square Error (MSE), Pick Signal to Noise Ration (PSNR) and Compression Ratio (CR) are used at different level of decompositions.
A Machine Learning Approach to Determine Maturity Stages of Tomatoes
Authors: Kaur Kamalpreet , Guptata O.P.
Published: October 2017

Maturity checking has become mandatory for the food industries as well as for the farmers so as to ensure that the fruits and vegetables are not diseased and are ripe. However, manual inspection leads to human error, unripe fruits and vegetables may decrease the production [3]. Thus, this study proposes a Tomato Classification system for determining maturity stages of tomato through Machine Learning which involves training of different algorithms like Decision Tree, Logistic Regression, Gradient Boosting, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, K-NN and XG Boost. This system consists of image collection, feature extraction and training the classifiers on 80% of the total data. Rest 20% of the total data is used for the testing purpose. It is concluded from the results that the performance of the classifier depends on the size and kind of features extracted from the data set. The results are obtained in the form of Learning Curve, Confusion Matrix and Accuracy Score. It is observed that out of seven classifiers, Random Forest is successful with 92.49% accuracy due to its high capability of handling large set of data. Support Vector Machine has shown the least accuracy due to its inability to train large data set.
Notes from the Editors, October 2017
Authors: The Editors -
Published: October 2017

buy this issueThe groups fighting white supremacy in Charlottesville and elsewhere represent a cross-section of the U.S. left, from socialists to communists to anarchists. Together, they affirm that to combat the new right-wing resurgence, it is necessary to combat capitalism itself.Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.
Venezuela's Fragile Revolution: From Chávez to Maduro
Authors: Ellner Steve
Published: October 2017

The Bolivarian Revolution in Venezuela has always been shaped by the dangers and demands of achieving socialism through democratic means. Only by reckoning with that complexity can we understand both Venezuela's current crisis and its recent history.Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.
Subsistence Under Siege: Women's Labor and Resistance in Eastern India
Authors: Padhi Ranjana
Published: October 2017

Neoliberal development has opened the eastern Indian state of Odisha to mining companies and steel conglomerates, threatening the region's ancient subsistence economies and provoking a fierce resistance, in which women have taken a leading role.Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.
Stronger Together?
Authors: Marszalek Bernard
Published: October 2017

At their best, worker cooperatives are among the most effective examples of radical democracy in action. A recent vogue for cooperatives as high-tech entrepreneurial endeavors, however, seeks to expand rather than challenge the rule of market economics.Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.
Retinoblastoma: Magnetic Isotope Effects Might Make a Difference in the Current Anti-Cancer Research Strategy
Authors: Bukhvostov Alexander A. , Dvornikov Anton S. , Ermakov Kirill V. , Kurapov Pavel B. , Kuznetsov Dmitry A.
Published: October 2017

Human retinoblastoma cells were proven to possess some very unusual DNApolβ species. Being 23.5 kDa monomers, which itself is not common for the DNApolβ superfamily members, these chromatin associated proteins manifests most of the DNApolβ-specifc functional peculiarities making them legitimate targets for DNA repair cytostatic inhibitors. Particularly, these tumor specific enzymes were found to be very sensitive to25Mg2+-,43Ca2+- and67Zn2+-promoted magnetic isotope effects (MIE) caused a marked DNA sequence growth limitation as well as a formation of the size-invalid, i.e. too short in length, DNA fragments, totally inappropriate for the DNA repair purpose. This MIE-DNApolβ match may serve a starting point for further move towards the paramagnetic path in current developments of anti-cancer strategies.
The Terrorist Attacks and the Human Live Birth Sex Ratio: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Masukume Gwinyai , O’Neill Sinéad M. , Khashan Ali S. , Kenny Louise C. , Grech Victor
Published: October 2017

Aim: The live birth sex ratio is defined as male/total births (M/F). Terrorist attacks have been associated with a transient decline in M/F 3–5 months later with an excess of male losses in ongoing pregnancies. The early 21st century is replete with religious/politically instigated attacks. This study estimated the pooled effect size between exposure to attacks and M/F. Registration number CRD42016041220. Methods: PubMed and Scopus were searched for ecological studies that evaluated the relationship between terrorist attacks from 1/1/2000 to 16/6/2016 and M/F. An overall pooled odds ratio (OR) for the main outcome was generated using the generic inverse variance method. Results: Five studies were included: 2011 Norway attacks; 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting; 2001 September 11 attacks; 2004 Madrid and 2005 London bombings. OR at 0.97 95% CI (0.94–1.00) (I2 = 63%) showed a small statistically significant 3% decline in the odds (p = 0.03) of having a male live birth 3–5 months later. For lone wolf attacks there was a 10% reduction, OR 0.90 95% CI (0.86–0.95) (p = 0.0001). Conclusion: Terrorist (especially lone wolf) attacks were significantly associated with reduced odds of having a live male birth. Pregnancy loss remains an important Public Health challenge. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses considering other calamities are warranted.
Comparison of Non-Gated vs. ECG-gated CT Angiography of Fontan Circulation in Patients with Implanted Stents in Pulmonary Branches
Authors: Kardoš Marek , Mikuláš Juraj , Vulev Ivan , Mašura Jozef
Published: October 2017

Background: Motion artifacts may degrade CT examination of Fontan pathway and hinder accurate diagnosis of in-stent restenosis. Purpose: We retrospectively compared ECG-gated multi-detector computed tomography (CT) with non-ECG-gated CT in order to demonstrate whether or not one of the methods should be preferred. Method: The study included 13 patients with surgically reconstructed Fontan pathway. A total of 16 CT examinations were performed between February 2010 and November 2015.The incidence of motion artifacts in Fontan pathway and pulmonary branches were analysed subjectively by two readers. The effective dose for each examination was calculated. Results: Just in one non-gated CT examination was evidence of motion artifact in distal part of left pulmonary artery. The mean normalized effective radiation dose was 2.33 mSv (±0.62) for the non-ECG-gated scans and 4.55 mSv (±0.85) for the ECG-gated scans (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Non-gated CT angiography with single phase reconstruction significantly reduces radiation dose without loss of image quality compared with ECG-gated CT angiography.
Antiplatelet Therapy in a Patient with Coronary Artery Disease and Myelodysplastic Syndrome with Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Fernández-Fernández Francisco José , Ameneiros-Lago Eugenia , Tuñas-Gesto Cintia , Gómez-Buela Inmaculada
Published: October 2017

To date, there are no sufficient data to make firm recommendations on the treatment of patients with severe thrombocytopenia who require antiplatelet therapy after experiencing acute coronary syndrome. Therefore, we think that it is important to communicate the experience with individual cases. We report the case of a patient who presented with pericardial effusion causing cardiac tamponade. He had thrombocytopenia associated with myelodysplastic syndrome, and ten weeks before this admission, percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty with implantation of drug-eluting stents was performed for non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome. Platelets in myelodysplastic syndromes are dysfunctional, which exacerbates bleeding from thrombocytopenia, and the management of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in these patients is challenging.
Direct Oral Anticoagulant Drugs in Dental Clinical Practice
Authors: Stasko J. , Stasko J. , Janickova M. , Mikuskova K. , Malachovsky I. , Gengelova P. , Kasaj M. , Smatanova M. , Statelova D.
Published: October 2017

The direct oral anticoagulant drugs (DOAC) are generally safe and effective in several clinical settings including acute venous thromboembolic disease, prophylaxis in the postoperative setting, prevention of thromboembolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and in the management of acute coronary syndrome. The relatively short half-life, rapid onset of action, and predictable pharmacokinetics should simplify periprocedural use of the DOAC. The aim of this work is to propose and summarize periprocedural management of patients treated with the DOAC in dental practice and to inform about the principal specifications of this treatment.