bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inverse Association of Prostatic Chronic Inflammation among Prostate Cancer Tumor Grade Groups: Retrospective Study of 738 Consecutive Cases Elected to a First Random Biopsy Set
Authors: Porcaro Antonio Benito , Tafuri Alessandro , Novella Giovanni , Sebben Marco , Mariotto Arianna , Inverardi Davide , Corsi Paolo , Processali Tania , Pirozzi Marco , Amigoni Nelia , Rizzetto Riccardo , Brunelli Matteo , Balzarro Matteo , Siracusano Salvatore , Artibani Walter
Published: April 2018

Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate associations of prostatic chronic inflammation (PCI) with prostate cancer (PCA) grade groups by the International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP). Methods: The study evaluated retrospectively 738 cases. The patient population was sampled into 3 groups collecting cases without and with PCA including subjects with lSUP grade group 1 and grade groups 2–5. Results: PCI was assessed in 185 patients (25.1%) and PCA in 361 patients (48.9%) of whom 188 (25.5%) had ISUP grade and 173 (23.4%) had ISUP groups 2–5 tumors. PCI inversely related to ISUP groups (p < 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, the risk of ISUP grade group 1 PCA compared to negative cases associated positively with age (OR 1.042; p = 0.001) but inversely with total prostate volume (TPV; OR 0.965; p < 0.0001) and PCI (OR 0.314; p < 0.0001). Intermediate-high grade tumors associated positively with age (OR 1.065; p < 0.0001), prostate specific antigen (OR 1.167; p < 0.0001), and abnormal digital rectal examination (OR 2.251; p < 0.0001) but inversely with TPV (OR 0.921; p < 0.0001) and PCI (OR 0.106; p < 0.0001). Conclusions: PCI decreased the risk of PCA among ISUP tumor grade groups.
Activated Α7nachr Improves Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction and Intestinal Injury Induced by Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Rats: Inhibition of the Proinflammatory Response Through the Th17 Immune Response
Authors: Chen Keyan , Sun YingJie , Dong Wanwei , Zhang Tiezheng , Zhou Nan , Yu Weiwei , Diao Yugang , Guo Shanbin , Tian Yue
Published: April 2018

Backgrund/Aims: To investigate the effects of activated α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) on postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and intestinal injury induced by cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and its relationship with the Th17 response in order to provide a theoretical basis for organ protection and targeted drug therapy during the perioperative period. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rat models of CPB were established. Rat intestinal and brain injuries were observed after CPB using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Cell apoptosis was determined using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling. Inflammatory factors and markers of brain injury in rat serum were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression levels of Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, ZO-1, occludin, AQP4, RORγT, and α7nAchR were examined using western blotting. Transcription factor RORγT expression was determined using real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Th17 cells in the peripheral blood and spleen were determined using flow cytometry. α7nAchR knockout rats were established. The Th17 response in the peripheral blood and spleen of α7nAchR knockout rats was further verified using flow cytometry. Results: CPB can induce POCD and intestinal injury in rats. α7nAchR activation markedly reduced intestinal injury, POCD, neuronal apoptosis, proinflammatory factor expression, and number of CD4+IL-17+ cells. α7nAchR knockout significantly increased serum D-lactic acid, FABP2, S-100β, NSE, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-17 secretion. The number of CD4+IL-17+ cells was also significantly increased. Conclusion: α7nAchR activation markedly ameliorates the intestinal injury and POCD induced by CPB. Inhibition of the Th17 immune response can reduce the proinflammatory response, which could provide a new method for clinical perioperative organ protection and targeted drug therapy.
Vantagem Competitiva no Turismo Rural: análise dos recursos estratégicos de hotéis fazenda
Authors: Alves Luana de Oliveira , Silva Luana Alexandre , Salazar Viviane Santos
Published: April 2018

A possibilidade de experimentar atividades diferentes do agito do cotidiano e de ter um contato mais íntimo com a natureza tem direcionado muitos turistas para o campo. Para explorar esse nicho de mercado o empresário do setor rural passa a ser um estrategista em busca de novas possibilidades de negócio que atendam a esta demanda. Na área da gestão estratégica, uma das questões que vem despertando atenção dos estudiosos diz respeito à razão que permite às empresas desenvolverem e manterem vantagem competitiva em relação aos demais concorrentes. Seguindo este raciocínio, este trabalho analisa os hotéis-fazenda a partir da perspectiva da RBV (Visão Baseada em Recursos), cuja teoria considera os fatores internos de uma empresa como determinantes do seu desempenho superior. O objetivo desta pesquisa é, portanto, identificar e avaliar quais recursos estratégicos sustentam a vantagem competitiva dos hotéis-fazenda a partir da análise de dois empreendimentos: um localizado no Estado do Ceará e outro em Pernambuco. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de natureza descritiva que adotou como instrumentos de coleta de dados um questionário aberto, além de uma entrevista semiestruturada para aprofundamento das informações obtidas. Dentre as observações realizadas no decorrer do estudo foi possível identificar que os recursos físicos, como a localização, e os recursos humanos, em especial o atendimento, podem ser vistos como recursos estratégicos que sustentam a vantagem competitiva deste tipo de empreendimento.
Glycosaminoglycan Neutralization in Coagulation Control
Authors: Sobczak Amélie I.S. , Pitt Samantha J. , Stewart Alan J.
Published: April 2018

The glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) heparan sulfate, dermatan sulfate, and heparin are important anticoagulants that inhibit clot formation through interactions with antithrombin and heparin cofactor II. Unfractionated heparin, low-molecular-weight heparin, and heparin-derived drugs are often the main treatments used clinically to handle coagulatory disorders. A wide range of proteins have been reported to bind and neutralize these GAGs to promote clot formation. Such neutralizing proteins are involved in a variety of other physiological processes, including inflammation, transport, and signaling. It is clear that these interactions are important for the control of normal coagulation and influence the efficacy of heparin and heparin-based therapeutics. In addition to neutralization, the anticoagulant activities of GAGs may also be regulated through reduced synthesis or by degradation. In this review, we describe GAG neutralization, the proteins involved, and the molecular processes that contribute to the regulation of anticoagulant GAG activity.
A multicentered pharmacoepidemiological approach to evaluate clinically significant potential drug–drug interactions in medical intensive care settings in Pakistan
Authors: Shakeel Faisal , Khan Jamshaid Ali , Aamir Muhammad , Asim Syed Muhammad , Ullah Irfan
Published: April 2018

Background:

Iatrogenic injuries due to drug–drug interactions are particularly significant in critical care units because of the severely compromised state of the patient. The risk further increases with the use of multiple drugs, increasing age, and stay of the patient.

Objective:

The aim was to assess potential drug–drug interactions, evaluate clinically significant potential drug–drug interactions and their predictors in medical intensive care units of tertiary hospitals in Pakistan.

Methods:

Analysis of patient data collected from medical intensive care units of tertiary hospitals in Pakistan were carried out using Micromedex DrugReax. Various statistical tools were applied to identify the significance of associated predictors.

Results:

In a total of 830 patients, prevalence of potential drug–drug interactions was found to be 39%. These attributed to 190 drug combinations, of which 15.4% were clinically significant. A significant association of potential drug–drug interactions was present with number of prescribed drugs, age, and gender. In terms of clinically significant potential drug–drug interactions, the association was significant with increasing age. Moreover, one-way analysis of variance revealed a significant difference in the means of potential drug–drug interactions among the four hospitals.

Conclusion:

A prevalence of 39% potential drug–drug interactions was observed in patients of medical intensive care unit, with 22.8% being clinically significant. These attributed to nine drug pairs and could easily be avoided to reduce the risk of adverse effects from potential drug–drug interactions.
The matching of crack-tip constraint between standard and non-standard specimen
Authors: Yang Jie
Published: April 2018

The matching of crack-tip constraint is a key issue for the developing of accurately structure integrity assessment method. For more and more non-standard specimens with different constraint states were used in the scientific research, it is especially significant to establish the matching of constraint between standard specimen and non-standard specimen. In this article, the single edge-notched bend specimens with various constraint states were selected, and the unified constraint parameter Ap under different J-integrals was calculated by finite element analysis. And then, based on the J-A p curves, the matching of crack-tip constraint between different specimens was studied, and the matching specimens were given. In order to confirm the reliability of results, some experiments focused on the matching specimens were performed. The experiment results showed that the matching is valid. For the fracture properties of matching specimens are matching also, it is significant to the accurate assessment of structural integrity.
Reversible pulmonary artery perfusion abnormalities in the postpartum period as a precursor to the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: O’Riordan Devaki , Kiely David G. , O’Driscoll B. Ronan
Published: April 2018

Deterioration, or a new presentation, of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), are recognized complications of pregnancy. In this report, we describe a patient with a family history of PAH who developed peripartum breathlessness and hypoxemia with ventilation‐perfusion mismatch but no evidence of thromboembolism or PAH. Significantly reduced perfusion at both lung bases was noted on perfusion scintigraphy and three‐dimensional magnetic resonance (3D‐MR) perfusion maps in the immediate postpartum period. These abnormalities spontaneously resolved by 16 weeks postpartum, consistent with reversible pulmonary abnormalities of pulmonary perfusion. However, she developed new breathlessness four years later and was found to have developed PAH. This case provides a mechanism which may contribute to the high mortality seen in pregnant patients with PAH in the peripartum period.
DACH1 antagonizes CXCL8 to repress tumorigenesis of lung adenocarcinoma and improve prognosis
Authors: Liu Qian , Li Anping , Yu Shengnan , Qin Shuang , Han Na , Pestell Richard G. , Han Xinwei , Wu Kongming
Published: April 2018

Background

C-X-C motif ligand 8 (CXCL8), known as a proinflammatory chemokine, exerts multiple effects on the proliferation, invasion, and migration of tumor cells via the autocrine or paracrine manner. Conversely, the human Dachshund homologue 1 (DACH1) is recognized as a tumor suppressor which retards the progression of various cancers. In prostate cancer, it has been demonstrated that DACH1 was negatively correlated with the expression of CXCL8 and able to antagonize the effects of CXCL8 on cellular migration. Herein, we explored the mechanisms by which DACH1 regulated the CXCL8 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Public microarray and Kaplan-Meier plotter datasets were analyzed. Blood serum samples from lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) patients were collected for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis. Immunohistochemical staining was conducted on tissue microarray. Cell lines with stable expression of DACH1 were established, and relative gene expression was measured by Western blot, ELISA, real-time PCR, and human cytokine array. Correspondingly, cell lines transfected with shDACH1 were established, and relative gene expression was measured by real-time PCR and immunofluorescence array. Functional studies were performed by transwell and xenograft mice models. Luciferase reporter gene assay was applied to measure the regulation of DACH1 on CXCL8.

Results

Our study indicated that CXCL8 both at the mRNA and protein level was associated with the high tumor burden of ADC. Correlational analyses in ADC cell lines and ADC tissues showed that DACH1 was inversely correlated with CXCL8. Meanwhile, patients with high DACH1 expression and low CXCL8 expression had prolonged time to death and recurrence. Moreover, we verified the inhibitory effects of DACH1 on CXCL8 both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanism studies proved that DACH1 transcriptionally repressed CXCL8 promoter activity through activator protein-1 (AP-1) and nuclear transcription factor-kappa B (NF-κB) sites.

Conclusions

Our study proved that CXCL8 acted as an unfavorable factor promoting to tumor progression and poor prognosis of ADC, while DACH1 antagonized CXCL8 to provide a favorable survival of ADC patients. Double detection of DACH1 and CXCL8 may provide a precise information for further evaluating the prognosis of ADC patients.
Managing diabetic foot infections: a survey of Australasian infectious diseases clinicians
Authors: Commons Robert J. , Raby Edward , Athan Eugene , Bhally Hasan , Chen Sharon , Guy Stephen , Ingram Paul R. , Lai Katy , Lemoh Chris , Lim Lyn‐Li , Manning Laurens , Miyakis Spiros , O'Reilly Mary , Roberts Adam , Sehu Marjoree , Torda Adrienne , Vicaretti Mauro , Lazzarini Peter A.
Published: April 2018

Background

Diabetic foot infections (DFI) present a major morbidity, mortality and economic challenge for the tertiary health sector. However, lack of high quality evidence for specific treatment regimens for patients with DFIs may result in inconsistent management. This study aimed to identify DFI caseload proportion and patterns of clinical practice of Infectious Diseases (ID) Physicians and Trainees within Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey of Australian and New Zealand ID Physicians and Trainees was undertaken, to estimate the overall ID caseload devoted to patients with DFIs and assess clinicians' management practices of patients with DFIs.

Results

Approximately 28% (142/499) of ID Physicians and Trainees from Australia and New Zealand responded to the survey. DFI made up 19.2% of all ID consultations. Involvement in multidisciplinary teams (MDT) was common as 77.5% (93/120) of those responding indicated their patients had access to an inpatient or outpatient MDT. Significant heterogeneity of antimicrobial treatments was reported, with 82 unique treatment regimens used by 102 respondents in one scenario and 76 unique treatment regimens used by 101 respondents in the second scenario. The duration of therapy and the choice of antibiotics for microorganisms isolated from superficial swabs also varied widely.

Conclusions

Patients with DFIs represent a significant proportion of an ID clinician's caseload. This should be reflected in the ID training program. Large heterogeneity in practice between clinicians reflects a lack of evidence from well‐designed clinical trials for patients with DFI and highlights the need for management guidelines informed by future trials.
Endoscopic management of maxillary sinus inverted papilloma attachment sites to minimize disease recurrence
Authors: Wu Vincent , Siu Jennifer , Yip Jonathan , Lee John M.
Published: April 2018

Background

Inverted papillomas (IPs) are benign neoplasms, most commonly arising from the mucosal lining of the maxillary sinus. IPs can have single or multifocal sites of attachment. Although pedicle location is an important factor to consider in surgical planning, it is less clear whether the location or number of IP attachment sites hold any prognostic value. Herein, we aimed to determine the prognostic significance of the number and location of attachment sites of IPs originating from the maxillary sinus when managed by a pure endoscopic approach.

Methods

This was a single-center, single-surgeon retrospective chart review. Patients with maxillary sinus IPs who were managed by endoscopic approaches only, from January 1, 2010 to June 30, 2016, were identified. Demographic data, operative technique, number and location of IP attachment sites, follow-up duration, recurrence, and presence of malignant transformation were captured.

Results

Twenty-eight maxillary IP patients (61% males) were included, with a mean age of 54.9 (standard deviation (SD): 16.5) years. Approximately 36% of patients were referred from other institutions for management of recurrent IPs after failing previous surgical treatment. All patients were managed with an endoscopic approach, and all required an endoscopic medial maxillectomy to facilitate access to the maxillary sinus. At a mean follow-up of 31.1 (SD: 22.6) months, there were no recurrences identified. IPs with single (46%) and multifocal (54%) attachments were predominately to the medial and lateral walls. Maxillary IPs with multifocal attachments most frequently involved 2-3 walls of the sinus. Osteitis (36%) was commonly seen.

Conclusion

IPs originating from the maxillary sinus frequently had multifocal attachments, but this did not impact disease recurrence. Despite the surgical challenges of accessing all of the maxillary sinus walls, IPs originating from the maxillary sinus can be effectively managed via a pure endoscopic approach.
The semiotic sense of context vs the material sense of context
Authors: Bowcher Wendy L.
Published: April 2018

This paper investigates the relationship between culture and language through analyzing material and semiotic features in a context of language-in-use. The paper first discusses what is meant by ‘material’ and ‘semiotic’ context from an SFL perspective. It then investigates the way in which these two ‘senses’ of context may converge within a specific instance, affecting interaction in a subtle way and together construing a cultural phenomenon.
WHO Mental Health Gap Action Programme implementation in the Small Island Development States: experience from the Pacific and English-speaking Caribbean countries
Authors: Setoya Yutaro , Kestel Dévora
Published: April 2018

Owing to the relatively small population sizes and remoteness of the Small Island Development States (SIDS), their mental health systems face many common difficulties. These include having few mental health specialists per country, limited access to mental health services and low awareness. To overcome these limitations, the World Health Organization (WHO) Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP), which aims to decrease the treatment gap by training non-specialists, was implemented in more than 20 Pacific and English-speaking Caribbean countries. Many lessons were learnt from the experience. Mental health specialist support is crucial, and online training and supervision could be a solution. mhGAP training proved to be effective to improve knowledge and attitude, but close monitoring and supervision are needed to change clinical practice. Awareness raising and mental health service capacity building need to occur simultaneously. To realise sustainable development goals, countries need to invest more in mental health, especially in human resources; mhGAP will be one effective solution.
Odor discrimination learning in the Indian greater short-nosed fruit bat (Cynopterus sphinx): differential expression of Egr-1, C-fos and PP-1 in the olfactory bulb, amygdala and hippocampus
Authors: Mukilan Murugan , Bogdanowicz Wieslaw , Marimuthu Ganapathy , Rajan Koilmani Emmanuvel
Published: April 2018

Activity-dependent expression of immediate-early genes (IEGs) is induced by exposure to odor. The present study was designed to investigate whether there is differential expression of IEGs (Egr-1, C-fos) in the brain region mediating olfactory memory in the Indian greater short-nosed fruit bat Cynopterus sphinx. We assumed that differential expression of IEGs in different brain regions may orchestrate a preference odor (PO) and aversive odor (AO) memory in C. sphinx. We used preferred (0.8% wt/wt of cinnamon powder) and aversive (0.4% wt/vol of citral) odor substances, with freshly-prepared chopped apple, to assess the behavioural response and induction of IEGs in the olfactory bulb, hippocampus and amygdala. After experiencing PO and AO, the bats initially responded to both, later only engaging in feeding bouts in response to the PO food. The expression pattern of Egr-1 and C-fos in the olfactory bulb, hippocampus and amygdala was similar at different time points (15, 30 and 60 min) following the response to PO, but different for AO. The response to AO elevated the level of C-fos expression within 30 min and reduced it at 60 min in both the olfactory bulb and the hippocampus, as opposed to the continuous increase noted in the amygdala. In addition, we tested whether an epigenetic mechanism entailing protein phosphatase-1 (PP-1) acts on IEG expression. The observed PP-1 expression and the level of unmethylated/methylated promoter revealed that the C-fos expression is possibly controlled by an odor-mediated regulation of PP-1. These results in turn imply that the differential expression of C-fos in the hippocampus and amygdala may contribute to olfactory learning and memory in C. sphinx.
Steady oxide film obtaining on surface of piston aluminum alloys at micro-arc oxidation
Authors: Скрябин Максим , Skryabin Maxim
Published: April 2018

The formation of thin oxide films on piston aluminum alloys through the method of micro-arc oxidation is considered. The mechanism of the formation crystal inclusions and high-temperature structures depending on ion current density in time is described. One of the methods of surface strengthening piston aluminum alloys – micro-arc oxidation is described and analyzed. The mechanisms of oxide layers formation taking into account the impact of alloy elements of piston aluminum alloys are considered. The analysis of porous cells is carried out, basic properties of coatings are investigated.
System for automated wear-resistance technological control of machinery at cutting
Authors: Суслов Анатолий , Suslov Anatoliy , Петрешин Дмитрий , Petreshin Dmitriy , Федонин Олег , Fedonin Oleg , Медведев Дмитрий , Medvedev Dmitriy
Published: April 2018

The peculiarities in the realization of algorithmic and mathematical software for technological control of machinery wear during machine parts cutting are considered. At the same time the adaptive system of quality control of parts surfaces machining on NC machines is used. This system allows decreasing cost price of manufacturing parts and ensuring their required life.

The system developed allows choosing a method and modes of part surface finish cutting ensuring a value of its wear intensity at operation not exceeding permissible one with minimum technological cost price.

It allows carrying out finish cutting a part surface with the optimum method and in optimum modes on a machine, possibly, equipped with NC systems with the adaptive wear-resistance control of the part under machining.
Czy wolno nie stylizować?
Authors: Brzozowski Jerzy
Published: April 2018

Can we not stylize?The article discusses the problem of colloquializing and archaizing of literary style in translation. The author agrees with Antoine Berman that such stylistic measures are difficult and result in many failed translation attempts but he considers stylization necessary and possible. His point of departure is Odile Schneider‑Mizony’s concept of “fictitious colloquiality” (oralité fictive) which leads to the creation of “spoken archi‑language”; in his opinion, the model of such translation in Poland is provided by the works of Zofia Chądzyńska. The author argues that this way of translating can be applied to other types of style, including archaizing, as proved by the successful translations done by Tadeusz Boy‑Żeleński and Andrzej Nowak.
„Zobaczyć oryginał” – rola wizualizacji w doskonaleniu umiejętności przekładu tekstów literackich i nieliterackich
Authors: Guttfeld Dorota , Linke‑Ratuszny Monia
Published: April 2018

To see the source text. The role of visual imagination in building competence for literary and non‑literary translation

The paper discusses the importance of spatial and visual imagination in the process of producing translations. Although visual aspects are usually associated with literary imaging, and hence teaching literary translation, they prove crucial in non‑literary translation as well, where the stress is traditionally put on terminological accuracy and research skills. Exercises requiring students to understand spatial relationships and visualize situations or objects illustrate the use of the skill. Pointing to analogies between literary and non‑literary translation, the paper encourages the integration of topics and task varieties between classes devoted to these two types of texts.
Traducir a Gombrowicz al español, pero… ¿a qué español?
Authors: Freixa Pau
Published: April 2018

Translating Gombrowicz Into Spanish, But… Into Which Spanish? Notes on a (Peninsular) Translation Into (Standard?) Spanish of 3 Unpublished Tales by Witold Gombrowicz for an (Argentinean) Publishing House When translating Witold Gombrowicz is itself quite difficult, doing it to Spanish shows some particular problems. This polish author that spent almost 24 years in Argentina, re‑wrote two of this Works into Spanish and published in that language some articles and speeches which only later were translated (or re‑translated into polish). For these reasons Gombrowicz is often considered a Spanish‑speaking author, too. Translating any writer into Spanish presents some general specific problems: It’s a language divided in many dialects, spoken as a modern‑tongue by more than 400 million, distributed in 20 countries over two continents, which put some questions about how to translate depending on the reader to which the translation is intended. In the case of Gombrowicz, it’s as well important the fact the Spanish spoken in Buenos Aires was his everyday life language during more than two decades. Should Gombrowicz’sworks be translated into neutral/peninsular Spanish (the most popular in literary translation considering that the biggest publishing houses in Spanish are set in Spain) or should we look for the author’s porteño voice? Should the translator try to get close to the strange gombrowiczean Spanish used in the Argentinean Ferdydurke? The present article will try to answer these questions on the basis of the experience of translating (in Spain) three previously unpublished tales for an Argentinean publishing house.
Tłumacz jako marka?
Authors: Szwebs Weronika
Published: April 2018

The Translator as a Brand: What Replaced the Criteria in the Internet Reception of the Translation of The Great Gatsby by Francis Scott Fitzgerald
The article analyses the Internet reception of Jacek Dehnel’s translation of Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. The analysis draws on the context of the publication, the paratexts, the marketing campaign of the publishing house and the specificity of the media presence of the translatorwriter. This approach enables to show how these factors have influenced not only the interest in the new translation of the novel, but also the very evaluation of it. Many of the Internet reviews are the effects of the suggestion with the editorial blurb, the translator’s afterword, and the unique brand of Jacek Dehnel as a writer and the participant of cultural life. Evaluative statements in reviews normally result from certain criteria and analysis, but in this case they are paraphrases and of paratexts. The analysis of the reception of Dehnel’s translation can contribute to further discussions on how the mechanisms of the media shape the reception of literary translations in the contemporary Internet literary life.
Effects of Dye Surface Concentration on the Molecular Aggregation of Xanthene Dye in Colloidal Dispersions of Montmorillonite
Authors: Baranyaiová Tímea , Bujdák Juraj
Published: April 2018

The molecular aggregation of organic dyes onto clay mineral particles is a very complex phenomenon including dye adsorption, the migration of dye molecules, rearrangement of initially formed aggregates, etc. Some details of this complex process are not yet fully understood. The objective of the present study was to understand the influence of dye surface concentration on the dynamic processes in dye molecular aggregation. A stopped-flow rapid mixing device was used for accurate measurements of the molecular aggregation of the cationic dye rhodamine 123 (R123) in montmorillonite (MntK) colloidal dispersions. The influence of dye surface concentration, which was changed by altering the ratio of the amount of R123 to the mass of MntK (nR123/mMntK), was examined in detail. Chemometric analysis was used to reconstruct the spectral matrix to obtain linearly uncorrelated spectral profiles of the major components and their concentrations at the respective reaction times. The conversion of isolated R123 cations into oblique J-aggregates (head-to-tail molecular assemblies) was observed over time and the existence of a J-dimers intermediate was hypothesized. The reaction kinetics followed a biphasic exponential function. An unexpected effect of dye surface concentration on R123 aggregation was observed: the initial formation of the molecular aggregates increased significantly with dye surface concentration, but an inverse trend was observed after longer reaction times. While dye aggregates were formed slowly at low dye loadings, systems with high R123/MntK ratios (nR123/mMntK) reached spectral stability after the first few seconds of the reaction. After longer reaction times, the greatest degree of dye aggregation was achieved in the dispersion of the lowest dye loading. Such a phenomenon is described for the first time. The results presented here are important for understanding the complex processes occurring in systems based on organic cations and clay minerals, and should be considered in the development of functional hybrid materials of dyes and nanoparticles with a layered structure.
Reading in Children With Fragile X Syndrome: Phonological Awareness and Feasibility of Intervention
Authors: Adlof Suzanne M. , Klusek Jessica , Hoffmann Anne , Chitwood Kerrie L. , Brazendale Allison , Riley Karen , Abbeduto Leonard J. , Roberts Jane E.
Published: April 2018

Individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS) present with significant deficits in reading skills, but scant research exists to understand the characteristics of the reading delays or best practices for reading instruction with this population. Study 1 examined the relationship between phonological awareness and reading skills in individuals with FXS. Study 2 evaluated the feasibility of a web-based reading intervention, which incorporated phonological awareness and phonics instruction but was originally developed for mainstream students, for children with FXS. Results suggest that phonological awareness and reading skills are correlated in this population, and that instruction targeting phonological awareness and phonics should not be ruled out for individuals with FXS. Further studies are needed to examine their potential effects.
AmICog – mobile technologies to assist people with cognitive disabilities in the work place
Authors: Gómez Javier , Alamán Xavier , Montoro Germán , Torrado Juan C. , Plaza Adalberto
Published: April 2018

This paper presents the system AmICog, designed specifically to assist people with cognitive disabilities in their workplaces. To do that we employ mobile devices for two different purposes: on the one hand, to show interactive guides adapted to the user, the task and the user’s context. On the other hand, to locate and provide directions in indoors environments.
OS THINK TANKS NA AMÉRICA LATINA E A PRODUÇÃO DE CONHECIMENTO APLICADO À POLÍTICA PÚBLICA
Authors: Secchi Leonardo , Cavalheiro Ricardo Alves , Ito Letícia Elena
Published: April 2018

Este ensaio traz ao debate o papel e a relevância da produção de conhecimento aplicado em políticas públicas, dando ênfase aos think tanks. Para tanto, faz-se uma discussão inicial dos conceitos de políticas públicas, problema público e produção de conhecimento aplicado como uma das características fundamentais da área de análise de políticas públicas. Os think tanks surgem como instituições especializadas neste papel. Na América Latina existem 695 think tanks que utilizam métodos e técnicas da policy analysis e da policy advocacy para produzir conhecimento aplicado e influenciar os processos decisórios, de implementação e avaliação de políticas públicas.
Are Busy Directors Harmful or Helpful? Evidence from the Great Recession
Authors: Withisuphakorn Pradit , Jiraporn Pornsit
Published: April 2018

We contribute to the debate on the costs and benefits of busy directors by investigating the effect of busy directors on firm value during a stressful time, i. e. during the Great Recession. Our results show that busy directors improve firm value significantly during the financial crisis. In particular, a rise in directors’ busyness by one standard deviation results in an improvement in Tobin’s q by 6.41 %. Directors with multiple board seats appear to help firms navigate the crisis more successfully, supporting the notion that multiple board seats signal higher quality. Outside the crisis period, however, we find that busy directors reduce firm value, consistent with many prior studies. Our results are crucial as they show that governance mechanisms function differently during stressful times than they do during normal times. Firms should exercise great caution before imposing limits on outside board seats on their directors.
An evidence- and risk-based approach to a harmonized laboratory alert list in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Campbell Craig A. , Lam Que , Horvath Andrea R.
Published: April 2018

Individual laboratories are required to compose an alert list for identifying critical and significant risk results. The high-risk result working party of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA) and the Australasian Association of Clinical Biochemists (AACB) has developed a risk-based approach for a harmonized alert list for laboratories throughout Australia and New Zealand. The six-step process for alert threshold identification and assessment involves reviewing the literature, rating the available evidence, performing a risk analysis, assessing method transferability, considering workload implications and seeking endorsement from stakeholders. To demonstrate this approach, a worked example for deciding the upper alert threshold for potassium is described. The findings of the worked example are for infants aged 0–6 months, a recommended upper potassium alert threshold of >7.0 mmol/L in serum and >6.5 mmol/L in plasma, and for individuals older than 6 months, a threshold of >6.2 mmol/L in both serum and plasma. Limitations in defining alert thresholds include the lack of well-designed studies that measure the relationship between high-risk results and patient outcomes or the benefits of treatment to prevent harm, and the existence of a wide range of clinical practice guidelines with conflicting decision points at which treatment is required. The risk-based approach described presents a transparent, evidence- and consensus-based methodology that can be used by any laboratory when designing an alert list for local use. The RCPA-AACB harmonized alert list serves as a starter set for further local adaptation or adoption after consultation with clinical users.
‘Hardcastle Hollows’ in loess landforms: Closed depressions in aeolian landscapes – in a geoheritage context
Authors: Fagg Roger , Smalley Ian
Published: April 2018

Loess landscapes sometimes contain isolated depressed areas, which often appear as lakes. The outline shape (and distribution) of these depressions could be controlled by random processes, particularly if the depressions are caused by loess hydroconsolidation and ground subsidence. By applying the Zingg system of shape classification it is possible to propose a mean random shape for the closed depressions. A Zingg rectangle with a side ratio of about 2:1 is produced by a very simple Monte Carlo method, which had been used previously to calculate the mean random shape of a loess particle. The Zingg rectangle indicates the basic shape of the mean closed depression. A simple four stage process for the formation of the depressions is proposed. They might be called ‘Hardcastle Hollows’ in honour of John Hardcastle who first reported them, in New Zealand. Studies on Ukrainian deposits suggest that there might be some stratigraphic value in the observation of closed depressions; they are often not superimposed in successive depositions of loess. Hydroconsolidation is important in landscape processes. The hollows provide interesting habitats and enlarge the ecological interest of loess deposits; the geoheritage scene is enhanced.
Upper Bounds for the Conversion Efficiency of Diluted Blackbody Radiation Energy into Work
Authors: Badescu Viorel
Published: April 2018

A new formula has been proposed for the Landsberg–Tonge function

χ
(
ε
)

\chi (\varepsilon )

entering the entropy density flux of the diluted blackbody radiation of dilution factor ε. Two models have been proposed for the conversion of diluted blackbody radiation energy into work. The Carnot and Petela–Landsberg–Press relationships do not provide accurate upper bounds for the real conversion efficiency and in some cases they wrongly estimate positive output work when the converter of radiation energy into work does not operate. Four upper bounds for the conversion efficiency have been derived. The most accurate upper bound efficiency requires the numerical solution of an algebraic equation for the optimum absorber temperature while the second best upper bound efficiency has the advantage that it is a simple analytical formula.
Cutaneous mucormycosis as a presenting feature of type 1 diabetes in a boy – case report and review of the literature
Authors: Jevalikar Ganesh , Sudhanshu Siddhnath , Mahendru Sanjay , Sarma Smita , Farooqui Khalid J. , Mithal Ambrish
Published: April 2018

Background:

Mucormycosis is a potentially fatal complication of diabetes. The rhino-orbito-cerebral form is the most common presentation, however, rarely other types can also be seen.

Case presentation:

We describe the case of a 4½ -year-old boy not previously known to be a diabetic who presented to the plastic surgery department for gangrene of the left middle finger with surrounding erythema and induration. After the diagnosis of diabetes and initial treatment, pus from the wound showed broad aseptate hyphae suggestive of mucormycosis which was further confirmed on culture. Aggressive surgical debridement including amputation, antifungal treatment and glycemic control achieved a complete cure.

Conclusions:

Cutaneous mucormycosis is a rare complication of type 1 diabetes mellitus and can even be seen at the onset of diabetes. High index of suspicion, timely antifungal treatment and aggressive surgical debridement usually lead to recovery in the localized form of the disease.
Contemporary Management of Mangled Extremity: A Review
Authors: Kaftandziev Igor , Spasov Marko , Pendovska Bisera
Published: April 2018

The treatment of choice of mangled extremities continues to be a subject of debate among surgeons.

Nowadays, much of the extremities that used to be amputated are saved, which is due to the progress in the fields of resuscitation, microvascular techniques, and advancements in fracture fixation. However, even if technical possibility of extremity salvage exists, the surgeon must always keep in mind that the final goal of the treatment is good functional outcome and to choose the modality of treatment in accordance to the principle. It is well-known that the final outcome following the treatment of the mangled extremities is influenced by plenty of factors. Until now, there are many scoring systems that are intended to guide the surgeon during the decision-making process in the acute phase of the treatment of mangled extremities. Nonetheless, many agree that the predictive value of these systems is still questionable. The process of limb salvage is lengthy, challenging and expensive, and in certain instances reoperations are necessary. Yet, morbidity and mortality are still significant.

The aim of our review was to present the current knowledge regarding the mechanism of injury and initial treatment of the mangled extremity and the scoring systems available. Furthermore, we are going to discuss the controversies concerning definitive treatment and complications following these injuries.
Characteristics of Acute Kidney Injury in Neonatal Age At - Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Naunova-Timovska Silvana
Published: April 2018

Introduction. Acute kidney injury is a serious condition which damages the kidney as a central mediator of the homeostasis of bodily fluids and electrolytes. It is not a rare problem in the intensive care units, particularly in the neonatal population. Perinatal asphyxia is a common predisposing factor associated with neonatal kidney injury. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of acute kidney injury in newborns from neonatal intensive care unit and to explore the association with perinatal asphyxia.

Methods. The study was conducted at the Children’s University Hospital in Skopje, R. Macedonia. It was a clinical, prospective study. In the period of two years (January 2013 to December 2014) 29 patients hospitalized at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with documented neonatal kidney injury were analyzed. Medical data records of admitted neonates with kidney injury were analyzed. The material was statistically analyzed using methods of descriptive statistics.

Results. We evaluated 29 neonates with documented acute kidney injury who at the period of 2 years were treated in NICU. The prevalence of kidney injury was 6.4%. Most of involved neonates were born at term (66%). Prerenal injury was evaluated in 80% of cases. Perinatal asphyxia was the most common predisposing factors for kidney injury in our study, revealed in 56% of cases with predominance of term-infants and male gender. Sepsis was present in 44% of cases, prematurity in 34%, and congenital malformation in 27% of cases. Mortality rate was 27.5% and it was higher in patients with assisted ventilation and sepsis.

Conclusion. Perinatal asphyxia is a dominant predisposing factor associated with neonatal kidney injury. Often, the occurrence of kidney damage in the neonatal population is multifactorial (more than 40%) and caused by several associated comorbidities
Development of resistant corn starch for use as an oral colon-specific nanoparticulate drug carrier
Authors: Ab’lah Norul Nazilah , Konduru Venkata Nagarjun , Wong Tin Wui
Published: April 2018

Starch is constituted of amylose and amylopectin. Debranching of amylopectin converts it into amylose thereby producing resistant starch which is known to be less digestible by the amylase. This study designed resistant starch using acid hydrolysis and heat-moisture treatment methods with native corn starch as the starting material. Both native and processed starches were subjected to Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry, differential scanning calorimetry and molecular weight analysis. They were nanospray-dried into nanoparticles with 5-fluorouracil as the drug of interest for colon cancer treatment. These nanoparticles were subjected to size, zeta potential, morphology, drug content and in vitro drug release analysis. Heat-moisture treatment of native corn starch enabled the formation of resistant starch through amylopectin debranching and molecular weight reduction thereby enhancing hydrogen bonding between the starch molecules at the amorphous phase and gelatinization capacity. The nanoparticles prepared from resistant starch demonstrated similar drug release as those of native starch in spite of the resistant starch had a lower molecular weight. The resistant starch is envisaged to be resistant to the digestive action of amylase in intestinal tract without the formed nanoparticles exhibiting excessively fast drug release in comparison to native starch. With reduced branching, it represents an ideal precursor for targeting ligand conjugation in design of oral colon-specific nanoparticulate drug carrier.
Multivariable polynomial fitting of controlled single-phase nonlinear load of input current total harmonic distortion
Authors: Sikora Roman , Markiewicz Przemysław , Pabjańczyk Wiesława
Published: April 2018

The power systems usually include a number of nonlinear receivers. Nonlinear receivers are the source of disturbances generated to the power system in the form of higher harmonics. The level of these disturbances describes the total harmonic distortion coefficient THD. Its value depends on many factors. One of them are the deformation and change in RMS value of supply voltage. A modern LED luminaire is a nonlinear receiver as well. The paper presents the results of the analysis of the influence of change in RMS value of supply voltage and the level of dimming of the tested luminaire on the value of the current THD. The analysis was made using a mathematical model based on multivariable polynomial fitting.
Energy industry
Authors: Staszak Katarzyna , Wieszczycka Karolina
Published: April 2018

The potential sources of metals from energy industries are discussed. The discussion is organized based on two main metal-contains wastes from power plants: ashes, slags from combustion process and spent catalysts from selective catalytic NOxreduction process with ammonia, known as SCR. The compositions, methods of metals recovery, based mainly on leaching process, and their further application are presented. Solid coal combustion wastes are sources of various compounds such as silica, alumina, iron oxide, and calcium. In the case of the spent SCR catalysts mainly two metals are considered: vanadium and tungsten – basic components of industrial ones.
Production and separation of no-carrier-added 181−184Re radioisotopes from proton irradiated tungsten target
Authors: Choudhury Dibyasree , Naskar Nabanita , Lahiri Susanta
Published: April 2018

Cross sections for the production of 181−184Re isotopes from proton irradiated thin natWO3 target at 20.9, 17.9, 14.9, 11.9 and 8.8 MeV projectile energies have been measured. An acceptable agreement between experimentally obtained data and available literature reports was found. The produced no-carrier-added (NCA) Re radionuclides have been separated from bulk tungsten target by liquid-liquid extraction (LLX) using trioctyl amine (TOA) and di-(2-ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid (HDEHP) dissolved in cyclohexane. A clear separation has been observed at 0.1 M and 1 M TOA with 0.1 M HNO3 concentration. However, by using HDEHP NCA Re radionuclides could not be separated from bulk W target without its contamination.