bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of Defense against Intracellular Pathogens Mediated by Human Macrophages
Authors: Bloom Barry R. , Modlin Robert L.
Published: May 2016

The key question our work has sought to address has been, “What are the necessary and sufficient conditions that engender protection from intracellular pathogens in the human host?” The origins of this work derive from a long-standing interest in the mechanisms of protection against two such paradigmatic intracellular pathogens,Mycobacterium tuberculosisandMycobacterium leprae, that have brilliantly adapted to the human host. It was obvious that these pathogens, which cause chronic diseases and persist in macrophages, must have acquired subtle strategies to resist host microbicidal mechanisms, yet since the vast majority of individuals infected withM. tuberculosisdo not develop disease, there must be some potent human antimicrobial mechanisms. What follows is not a comprehensive review of the vast literature on the role of human macrophages in protection against infectious disease, but a summary of the research in our two laboratories with collaborators that we hope has contributed to some understanding of mechanisms of resistance and pathogenesis. While mouse models revealed some necessary conditions for protection, e.g., innate immunity, Th1 cells and their cytokines, and major histocompatibility complex class I-restricted T cells, here we emphasize multiple antimicrobial mechanisms that exist in human macrophages that differ from those of most experimental animals. Prominent here is the vitamin D-dependent antimicrobial pathway common to human macrophages activated by innate and acquired immune responses, mediated by antimicrobial peptides, e.g., cathelicidin, through an interleukin-15- and interleukin-32-dependent common pathway that is necessary for macrophage killing ofM. tuberculosis in vitro.
Trichoblastic carcinosarcoma: an authentic cutaneous carcinosarcoma
Authors: Colston Jonathan , Hodge Keith , Fraga Garth Robert
Published: May 2016

We describe a trichoblastic carcinosarcoma on the forehead of a 65-year-old man. This is the fifth case of trichoblastic carcinosarcoma in the literature and the first to be reported from the USA. It was successfully treated with direct excision. Trichoblastic carcinosarcoma should be distinguished from epidermal carcinosarcoma. We believe trichoblastic carcinosarcoma is an authentic carcinosarcoma derived from multiple progenitor cells whereas epidermal carcinosarcomas are derived from a single progenitor cell that undergoes epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and are better considered as sarcomatoid carcinomas.
Good concordance between patients and their non-professional carers about factors associated with a ‘good death’ and other important end-of-life decisions
Authors: Davies Andrew , Todd Jennifer , Bailey Fiona , Gregory Amanda , Waghorn Melanie
Published: May 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate concordance between patients and non-professional carers about factors associated with a ‘good death’ and other end-of-life decisions.

Methods

Patients completed a questionnaire about end-of-life care issues, and were asked to rank the importance of factors linked to a ‘good death’. Carers also completed a questionnaire about end-of-life care issues relating to the patient, and whether or not they agreed with those choices (ie, medical treatments, PPD). Carers were also asked to rank the importance of factors linked to a ‘good death’ to the patient, and to them personally at that point in time.

Results

Only 69% of patients stated they had discussed their preferences for end-of-life care with their respective carer. The rankings were similar for the patient and the carer's views of what was important for the patient, although the patients ranked ‘to be involved in decisions about my care’ as less important than the carers, while the carers ranked ‘to have sorted out my personal affairs’ as less important than the patients.

Conclusions

When discussions around end-of-life choices do occur, carers generally appear to agree with the patients' preferences around end-of-life treatment, and preferred place of death.
Leadership behaviours and healthcare research performance: prospective correlational study
Authors: Patel Vanash M , Ashrafian Hutan , Uzoho Chukwudi , Nikiteas Nikolaos , Panzarasa Pietro , Sevdalis Nick , Darzi Ara , Athanasiou Thanos
Published: May 2016

Objectives

The aims of the study were to determine whether differences in leadership self-perception/behaviour in healthcare researchers may influence research performance and to evaluate whether certain leadership characteristics are associated with enhanced leadership efficiency in terms of motivation, effectiveness and satisfaction.

Design and participants

All Faculty of Medicine Professors at Imperial College London (n=215) were sent the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) Self form as a means of evaluating self-perception of leadership behaviours.

Main outcome measures

For each professor, we extracted objective research performance measures (total number of publications, total number of citations and h index) from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2009. The MLQ measured three leadership outcomes, which included motivation, effectiveness and satisfaction. Regression analysis was used to determine associations.

Results

A total number of 90 responses were received, which equated to a 42% response rate. There were no significant correlations between transformational, transactional or passive/avoidant leadership behaviours and any of the research performance measures. The five transformational leadership behaviours (ie, idealised attributes (IA), idealised behaviours (IB), inspirational motivation (IM), intellectual stimulation (IS), individual consideration (IC)) were highly significant predictors of leadership outcomes, extra effort (all B>0.404, SE=0.093–0.146, p<0.001), effectiveness (IA, IM, IS, IC B>0.359, SE=0.093–0.146, p<0.001; IB B=0.233, SE=0.103, p=0.026) and satisfaction (IA, IM, IS, IC B>0.483, SE=0.086–0.139, p<0.001; IB B=0.296, SE=0.101, p=0.004). Similarly, contingent reward was a significant predictor of extra effort (B=0.400, SE=0.123, p=0.002), effectiveness (B=0.353, SE=0.113, p=0.002) and satisfaction (B=0.326, SE=0.114, p=0.005).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that transformational leadership and contingent reward positively influence leadership efficiency in healthcare researchers. Although we did not show an association between leadership behaviours and research performance metrics, further studies using contextual performance measures at team and organisational levels are required.
Efficient Algorithms for Discrete Gate Sizing and Threshold Voltage Assignment Based on an Accurate Analytical Statistical Yield Gradient
Authors: S Ramprasath , Vasudevan Vinita
Published: May 2016

In this article, we derive a simple and accurate expression for the change in timing yield due to a change in the gate delay distribution. It is based on analytical bounds that we have derived for the moments of the circuit and path delay. Based on this, we propose computationally efficient algorithms for (1) discrete gate sizing and (2) simultaneous gate sizing and threshold voltage (

V
T

) assignment so that the circuit meets a timing yield specification under parameter variations. The use of this analytical yield gradient within a gradient-based timing yield optimization algorithm results in a significant improvement in the runtime as compared to the numerical method, while achieving the same final yield. It also allows us to explore a larger search space in each iteration more efficiently, which is required in the case of simultaneous resizing and

V
T

assignment. We also propose heuristics for resizing/changing the

V
T

of multiple gates in each iteration. This makes it possible to optimize the timing yield for large circuits. Results on ITC ’99 benchmarks show that the proposed multinode resizing algorithm results in a significant improvement in the runtime with a marginal average area penalty and no cost to the final yield achieved.
Animated Mesh Approximation With Sphere-Meshes
Authors: Thiery Jean-Marc , Guy Émilie , Boubekeur Tamy , Eisemann Elmar
Published: May 2016

Performance capture systems are used to acquire high-quality animated 3D surfaces, usually in form of a dense 3D triangle mesh. Extracting a more compact yet faithful representation is often desirable, but existing solutions for animated sequences are surface based, which leads to a limited approximation power in the case of extreme simplification. We introduce animated sphere-meshes, which are meshes indexing a set of animated spheres. Our solution is the first to output an animated volumetric structure to approximate animated 3D surfaces and optimizes for the sphere approximation, connectivity, and temporal coherence. As a result, our algorithm produces a multiresolution structure from which a level of simplification can be selected in real time, preserving a faithful approximation of the input, even at the coarsest levels. We demonstrate the use of animated sphere-meshes for low-cost approximate collision detection. Additionally, we propose a skinning decomposition, which automatically rigs the input mesh to the chosen level of detail. The resulting set of weights are smooth, compress the animation, and enable easy edits.
Index-Resilient Zero-Suppressed BDDs
Authors: Bernasconi Anna , Ciriani Valentina
Published: May 2016

Zero-Suppressed Binary Decision Diagrams (ZDDs) are widely used data structures for representing and handling combination sets and Boolean functions. In particular, ZDDs are commonly used in CAD for the synthesis and verification of integrated circuits. The purpose of this article is to design an error-resilient version of this data structure: a self-repairing ZDD. More precisely, we design a new ZDD canonical form, called index-resilient reduced ZDD, such that a faulty index can be reconstructed in time
O
(
k
), where
k
is the number of nodes with a corrupted index. Moreover, we propose new versions of the standard algorithms for ZDD manipulation and construction that are error resilient during their execution and produce an index-resilient ZDD as output. The experimental results validate the proposed approach.
Management of Chronic Hepatitis B: Consensus Guidelines
Authors: Sherman Morris , Shafran Stephen , Burak Kelly , Doucette Karen , Wong Winnie , Girgrah Nigel , Yoshida Eric , Renner Eberhard , Wong Philip , Deschenes Marc
Published: May 2016

The present document presents the proceedings of the consensus development conference on the management of viral hepatitis held in January 2007 under the auspices of the Canadian Association for the Study of the Liver and the Association of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease Canada. Several new agents have become available since the last such document was published in 2004, and new information has become available to help assess risk of adverse outcomes and who should be treated. In addition, the participants at the meeting identified a number of structural barriers that exist uniquely in Canada and that prevent physicians from properly managing their patients. The conference discussed the selection of patients for treatment and the drugs that can be used to treat these patients, as well as the treatment of hepatitis B in special populations. The present document should be read in conjunction with the companion document on the management of chronic hepatitis C.
A Combination of Two Rare Coronary Anomalies Makes It Even Rarer: Right Sided Single Coronary Artery with Dual Left Anterior Descending Artery
Authors: Barbaryan Aram , Addai Theodore , Kola Monahar , Raqeem Muhammad Wajih , Barsamyan Sergey , Mirrakhimov Aibek E.
Published: May 2016

An 82-year-old female with history of hyperlipidemia and hypertension presented to the clinic with chief complaint of nonradiating chest tightness accompanied by exertional dyspnea. Cardiac catheterization showed the absence of left coronary system; the entire coronary system originated from the right aortic sinus as a common trunk which then gave off the right coronary artery and the left main coronary artery. Cardiac catheterization demonstrated also another rare coronary anomaly: dual left anterior descending artery. Patient underwent percutaneous coronary intervention and subsequent multidetector computed tomography angiography confirmed the above angiography findings. Patient was subsequently discharged home on double antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel and has been asymptomatic since then.
A Novel Adaptive Algorithm Addresses Potential Problems of Blind Algorithm
Authors: Yasin Muhammad , Hussain Muhammad Junaid
Published: May 2016

A hybrid algorithm called constant modulus least mean square (CMLMS) algorithm is proposed in order to address the potential problems existing with constant modulus algorithm (CMA) about its convergence. It is a two-stage adaptive filtering algorithm and based on least mean square (LMS) algorithm followed by CMA. A hybrid algorithm is theoretically developed and the same is verified through MatLab Software. Theoretical model is verified through simulation and its performance is evaluated in smart antenna in presence of a cochannel interfering signal and additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) of zero mean. This is also tested in Rayleigh fading channel using digital modulation technique for Bit Error Rate (BER). Finally, a few computer simulations are presented in order to substantiate the theoretical findings with respect to proposed model. Corresponding results obtained with the use of only CMA and LMS algorithms are also presented for further comparison.
The Role of Toll-Like Receptor 4 in Infectious and Noninfectious Inflammation
Authors: Molteni Monica , Gemma Sabrina , Rossetti Carlo
Published: May 2016

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) belongs to the family of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). They are highly conserved receptors that recognize conserved pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), thus representing the first line of defense against infections. TLR4 has been long recognized as the sensing receptor for gram-negative lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In addition, it also binds endogenous molecules produced as a result of tissue injury. Hence, TLR4 represents a key receptor on which both infectious and noninfectious stimuli converge to induce a proinflammatory response. TLR4-mediated inflammation, triggered by exogenous or endogenous ligands, is also involved in several acute and chronic diseases, having a pivotal role as amplifier of the inflammatory response. This review focuses on the research progress about the role of TLR4 activation in infectious and noninfectious (e.g., sterile) inflammation and the effects of TLR4 signaling in some pathological conditions.
Fire-Risk Assessment in Northern Greece Using a Modified Fosberg Fire-Weather Index That Includes Forest Coverage
Authors: Kambezidis Harry D. , Kalliampakos George K.
Published: May 2016

The spatial distribution of the monthly mean values for various climatological parameters in Northern Greece is derived. The corresponding data come from measurements at several meteorological stations located in Central Macedonia, Eastern Macedonia, and Thrace (CM/EMT) area in the period 1975–1997. The collected data concern high temperature and low relative humidity, as well as local forest coverage, and are utilized for the calculation of a modified Fosberg Fire-Weather Index in order to estimate the fire risk over Northern Greece due to the local weather under critical conditions. As a result, monthly fire-risk maps of the CM/EMT area for the months of May to October are derived for the first time by applying sophisticated analytical geospatial tools and methods. Furthermore, fire events corresponding to the same region and period are added to the derived maps for comparison and for a better evaluation of the method. The resulting correspondence of the predicted fire risk to the local wind-speed behavior and forest abundance demonstrates the need of the necessary precaution measures to limit the future danger levels from fire events.
Mean Platelet Volume, Platelet Distribution Width, and Platelet Count in Varicocele: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pyo Jung-Soo , Cho Won Jin
Published: May 2016

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to elucidate the usefulness of platelet indices, mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), and platelet count in diagnosis and monitoring of varicocele. Methods: The current study included 525 patients and 379 healthy subjects from five eligible studies. We performed meta-analysis of MPV, PDW, and platelet count and mean differences in these platelet indices between healthy subjects and varicocele patients. Results: The pooled MPVs were 8.168 fL (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.589 to 8.747) and 8.801 fL (95% CI 8.028 to 9.574) in healthy subjects and varicocele patients, respectively. The pooled mean difference in MPV between healthy subjects and varicocele patients was 0.834 fL in case-control studies (95% CI 0.195 to 1.473, P = 0.011). In both healthy subjects and varicocele patients, low platelet count subgroups showed higher MPV than high platelet count subgroups. The mean difference in MPV was higher in low platelet count subgroup. There was no significant difference in PDW between healthy subjects and varicocele patients. Conclusion: Taken together, our data showed that platelet count was significantly lower in varicocele patients than in healthy subjects. Varicocele patients showed significantly higher MPV and lower platelet count than healthy subjects. MPV levels of patients differed according to platelet counts.
Don't Hold Back? The Effect of Grade Retention on Student Achievement
Authors: Diris Ron
Published: May 2016

This study analyzes the effect of age-based retention on school achievement at different stages of education. I estimate an instrumental variable model, using the predicted probability of retention given month of birth as an instrument, while simultaneously accounting for the effect of month of birth on maturity at the time of testing. The analysis further assesses heterogeneity in retention effects by achievement, by background characteristics, and by type of skill. Using international data from multiple waves of the PISA international assessment test, I find that grade retention in primary school harms student achievement across the distribution, while delayed school entry can produce positive results for those at the lower end. The identified local average treatment effect indicates that letting students retain in primary school because of a low relative age is harmful for their future school achievement.
What is the “True” Nature of Diamond?
Authors: Lehman Christine
Published: May 2016

After having been forgotten for more than half a century, the question of the nature of diamond was again raised by Jean d’ Arcet before the Académie des sciences in the 1770s. Quite surprisingly, diamond totally disappeared when heated to very high temperatures and, in order to understand this fascinating behaviour, Parisian chemists enthusiastically performed experiments from 1771 to 1773. They first used porcelain furnaces and then Tschirnhaus’ lens, an unsurpassed masterpiece constructed in Germany in approximately 1700. The analysis of handwritten laboratory notebooks, describing in detail the experiments conducted with this burning lens, reveals a little known close collaboration between Pierre-Joseph Macquer and Antoine-Laurent de Lavoisier. The successive steps of their research led to the revelation of the “true” nature of diamond, since it burned in air like common charcoal, releasing a gas that precipitated lime water. Contrary to the legend, Trudaine’s lens shed no additional light on the experimental evidence produced by the preceding collaborative academic research.
La pédagogie de l’ évangélisation des Noirs d’ Afrique selon la congrégation du saint-Esprit de 1841 à 1930
Authors: Essertel Yannick
Published: May 2016

In the nineteenth century, François Libermann, a converted Jew who became a priest, is attracted by the ministry to the Black people of the French Colonies and Africa. Having obtained a mission site in Guinea, he sent his first vicar apostolic, Benoît Truffet, who set up the beginnings of a pedagogy of Pauline evangelization, according to the will of Libermann. In 1930, about eighty years later, the Directory for Missions, under the leadership of Bishop Alexandre Le Roy, was an indispensable summary of missionary teaching methods developed by the Holy Ghost Fathers in Africa. After analyzing it, we outline a two-step process. The first step is that of the Pauline insertion, “all in all” marked by kenosis, learning of indigenous languages and the insertion of the missionary in local life. The second step is that of inculturation which consists in making use of the culture as a vehicle for the new faith, then in practising a hermeneutics of cosmogonies and finally in establishing a suitable pastoral approach which should lead to the emergence of a native clergy. This process corresponds to that applied in Oceania.
Rubus pseudoswinhoei (Rosaceae), a distinct new species from Yunnan, southwest China
Authors: WANG HUAN-CHONG , MA JING-XIA , HE ZHAO-RONG
Published: May 2016

Rubus pseudoswinhoei Huan C. Wang & Z. R. He, belonging to R. subg. Malachobatus sect. Sozostyli, is described and illustrated as a new species endemic to Yunnan, southwest China. The new species occurs in evergreen broad-leaved forests at elevations of 2500–2900 m. It is closely related to R. swinhoei Hance but clearly differs from the latter by its stipules usually persistent, 1.5–2 cm long, leaves with 12–18 pairs of lateral veins, pedicels 0.8–1.5 cm long, hypanthium 0.8–1.1cm in diameter, and sepals triangular-ovate to triangular-lanceolate, and 1–1.5 cm long. An up-to-date identification key to currently known species of Rubus sect. Sozostyli is provided.
A new species of Polyipnus (Teleostei: Stomiiformes) from the western Pacific, with comments on the P. triphanos species complex
Authors: HAROLD ANTONY S. , KEMP IRIS M. , SHORE SARAH K.
Published: May 2016

A new species of the teleostean family Sternoptychidae, Polyipnus notatus n. sp., is described based on material collected mainly off Taiwan in the South China Sea. The new species is most similar to P. triphanos, based on the presence of a single posttemporal spine, lack of scale spination, and the second and third ACA (=supra-anal) photophores elevated relative to the first and connected to each other in a common organ. These characters typify other members of the P. asteroides species group that occur in various tropical to temperate ocean basins. Based on a limited sample of 27 specimens, P. notatus (maximum observed size 30.7 mm SL) appears to be smaller than most other congeners. It is also characterized by an unusual lateral pigment bar, which is narrow and distinctly triangular. Based on the material examined, the geographical distribution of the species appears to be restricted to the South China Sea and adjacent minor ocean basins.
Predicting the Best Fit: A Comparison of Response Surface Models for Midazolam and Alfentanil Sedation in Procedures With Varying Stimulation
Authors: Liou Jing-Yang , Ting Chien-Kun , Mandell M. Susan , Chang Kuang-Yi , Teng Wei-Nung , Huang Yu-Yin , Tsou Mei-Yung
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND:

Selecting an effective dose of sedative drugs in combined upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy is complicated by varying degrees of pain stimulation. We tested the ability of 5 response surface models to predict depth of sedation after administration of midazolam and alfentanil in this complex model. The procedure was divided into 3 phases: esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), colonoscopy, and the time interval between the 2 (intersession).

METHODS:

The depth of sedation in 33 adult patients was monitored by Observer Assessment of Alertness/Scores. A total of 218 combinations of midazolam and alfentanil effect-site concentrations derived from pharmacokinetic models were used to test 5 response surface models in each of the 3 phases of endoscopy. Model fit was evaluated with objective function value, corrected Akaike Information Criterion (AICc), and Spearman ranked correlation. A model was arbitrarily defined as accurate if the predicted probability is <0.5 from the observed response.

RESULTS:

The effect-site concentrations tested ranged from 1 to 76 ng/mL and from 5 to 80 ng/mL for midazolam and alfentanil, respectively. Midazolam and alfentanil had synergistic effects in colonoscopy and EGD, but additivity was observed in the intersession group. Adequate prediction rates were 84% to 85% in the intersession group, 84% to 88% during colonoscopy, and 82% to 87% during EGD. The reduced Greco and Fixed alfentanil concentration required for 50% of the patients to achieve targeted response Hierarchy models performed better with comparable predictive strength. The reduced Greco model had the lowest AICc with strong correlation in all 3 phases of endoscopy. Dynamic, rather than fixed, γ and γalf in the Hierarchy model improved model fit.

CONCLUSIONS:

The reduced Greco model had the lowest objective function value and AICc and thus the best fit. This model was reliable with acceptable predictive ability based on adequate clinical correlation. We suggest that this model has practical clinical value for patients undergoing procedures with varying degrees of stimulation.
The possible importance of income and education as covariates in cohort studies that investigate the relationship between diet and disease
Authors: Temple Norman
Published: May 2016

Background:  Many cohort studies have been carried out that have provided information on the relationship between diet and health-related outcomes. Omission of important covariates during multivariate analysis may give rise to error due to residual confounding. A possibly important covariate is socioeconomic status (SES) as this is related to both diet and health.

Objective: To determine the frequency with which different measures of SES are included as covariates during multivariate analysis of cohort studies that investigated the relationship between diet and health.

Methodology:  An analysis was carried out of 76 randomly selected papers from 66 cohort studies. The papers covered many dietary variables and a wide variety of diseases/health-related outcomes. The cohort studies were carried out in many different locations and the subjects varied widely in age.

Results:  Approximately two-thirds of the papers (65.8%) used at least one measure of SES as a covariate. Education was used most often (60.5% of papers), followed by income (14.4%) and social class (2.6%). More than one measure of SES was used in 11.8% of papers.

Conclusions:  Failure to include income (or another measure of present SES, such as occupation) may be a common source of error in cohort studies. Over-reliance on education may be particularly important as it is likely to be a weaker measure of present SES than is income. There is a need for more research on this question. SES in childhood is almost never included in multivariate analysis in cohort studies carried out on adults. This could also play a significant role in disease risk in middle age or later. Very little is known regarding whether this is also a source of residual confounding.
Parts of the body: A is for Arm…
Authors: Hammond Paula , Lillie Stephen
Published: May 2016

This month, we start a new series, which takes the form of an extended alphabetical adventure around the body, helping children to get to know themselves a little better.
Understand behaviour
Authors: Martland Rebecca
Published: May 2016

We all have natural preconceptions and reactions to the way children behave, often defined by social constructs and situational awareness that may be misleading.
This colour is not really green
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: May 2016

How do we perceive the world around us, what are we actually seeing when we look at a red beetle or a blue fl ower. Colour and light are complex and fascinating subjects.
Saving teeth versus extraction: considerations and nursing care
Authors: Bloor Claire
Published: May 2016

As techniques progress in veterinary medicine, alternative treatments are available for a wide range of diseases and pathologies and veterinary professionals should be discouraged from automatically adopting a traditional approach to the treatment of their patients because ‘that is the way it has always been done’. Evidence-based practice is favourable, locating and appraising the available literature associated with alternative treatments to enhance practitioner knowledge, but to also ensure they are informing their clients about all options for their pets. The extraction of teeth is a common procedure performed in veterinary practice, and there are numerous indications for this intervention, however there are alternative ways to treat diseased teeth to salvage them, such as endodontic therapies. This article aims to outline the basic anatomy and physiology pertinent to the jaws and oral cavity before exploring the rationale and process of tooth extraction, including contraindications and some disadvantages. Throughout the discussion there will be consideration of alternative treatments.
Feline injection site sarcomas
Authors: Nóbrega C , Mesquita JR , Cruz R , Coelho C , Esteves F , Mega AC , Santos C , Vala H
Published: May 2016

Feline injection site sarcoma (FISS), formerly known as vaccine associated sarcoma (VAS), is a rare but life-threatening disease. The incidence estimates have varied from one case of FISS per 1000–10 000 cats vaccinated in North America and between one per 5000–12 500 vaccination visits in UK. It has been primarily associated with vaccine administration, but several other injectable materials/substances have been implicated as aetiologic agents, namely lufenuron, penicilin, metilprednisolone, meloxicam, non-absorbable suture material and microchip. FISS can have a long latency period (3 months to 13 years), but 8 years old is the average age of onset. FISS are tumours that arise subcutaneously, reaching a variable number of layers beneath the skin (muscle, bone). They are firm, not painful, solid and variable in size. Clinical assessment and biopsy are the basis for FISS diagnosis. In order to prevent FISS, vaccination should be carefully planned and be provided in easily resectable regions. Hind legs, tail and flanks, are preferable regions for vaccine administration.
How to catheterise the female canine
Authors: Thorp Angela
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Placement of urinary catheters in female canines is a procedure that, once mastered, can easily be performed by qualified, trained veterinary nurses. This is not a completely benign procedure, and adequate knowledge and care must be taken. There is much fear of female catheterisation.
The flea reproductive break point — what it is and how it is pivotal for successful flea control
Authors: Wright Ian
Published: May 2016

The cat flea Ctenocephalides felis is a source of revulsion, distress and irritation for pet owners worldwide. In addition, C. felis can also cause flea allergic dermatitis (FAD) in susceptible pets as well as significant bite reactions in people. This in combination, with the cat flea’s capability of transmitting a number of vector-borne diseases, makes control of this parasite vital. Veterinary nurses play a key role in educating clients about fleas and putting practical control programmes in place. A crucial component of this is the flea reproductive break point, which if not considered will lead to failure of flea control programmes.

This article considers flea control, and the importance of the reproductive break point in ensuring that flea control strategies are successful.
A APLICABILIDADE DA TEORIA DOS SISTEMAS DE NIKLAS LUHMANN NA FUNDAMENTAÇÃO DAS DECISÕES JURÍDICAS
Authors: Teixeira Alessandra Vanessa , Rosa Becker Luciana , Grazziotin Teixeira Lopes Manuela
Published: May 2016

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar a teoria dos sistemas de Niklas Luhmann e a sua aplicabilidade nas decisões jurídicas. O Estado Democrático de Direito apresenta novas exigências à forma de justificação das decisões jurídicas. As decisões jurídicas se tornam peças fundamentais à concretização das garantias constitucionais. Algumas respostas a essas novas exigências podem ser encontradas na teoria de Niklas Luhmann, da qual pode-se entender que a decisão jurídica sempre constitui um ato criativo de desdobramento de paradoxos que, exatamente por isso, exige graus mais sofisticados de justificação.
INTERPRETAÇÃO HERMENEUTICA CONSTITUCIONAL E INFRACONSTITUCIONAL DA PRESTAÇÃO DE READAPTAÇÃO DO ART. 47 DA LEI 8213/91 COMO APLICAÇÃO ANALÓGICA AOS QUE ESTÃO NO AUXÍLIO-DOENÇA POR MAIS DE 5 ANOS
Authors: Alves Hélio Gustavo
Published: May 2016

O presente estudo busca uma reflexão sobre a análise do retrocesso social com a revogação do art. 27 da lei 3807/60 e a não recepção do art. 7º da lei 5890/73 pela lei 8213/91, em que faz com que, a partir deste momento, tacitamente, haja um tratamento desigual entre os afastados por mais de 5 anos no auxílio-doença e os aposentados por invalidez, deixando de conceder a ambos a prestação de readaptação prevista no art. 47 da lei de benefícios atual. Assim, temos como objetivo, demonstrar que a reforma previdenciária supra, reduziu o direito social de forma ilegal e inconstitucional.
DO PRINCÍPIO DA TRIPARTIÇÃO DOS PODERES: UM ESTUDO DOGMÁTICO EM RELAÇÃO AS AGÊNCIAS REGULADORAS
Authors: Rangel Rosso Nelson Rocco Antonio , De Melo Rocha Joyce Michelle
Published: May 2016

O artigo procura colher posicionamentos para defender a legitimidade da atuação das agências reguladoras, atendendo aos preceitos da Constituição Federal de 88. Verifica-se a importância de tomadas de decisões dentro dos aspectos da especificidade técnica e, principalmente, dentro de um tempo razoável, avocando, dessa forma, o princípio da eficiência que deve permear a Administração Pública, e que se encontra encartado na Carta Magna de 88, como um dos pilares da atividade pública. A natureza constitucional de certas garantias não é afastada e nem se presume uma usurpação nos poderes legislativos e jurisdicionais pelas agências reguladoras. A atividade das agências reguladoras visa atender ao que foge da alçada dos poderes legislativos e judiciais, como um preenchimento de lacuna de cunho administrativo, respaldadas pelos ditames constitucionais. A pesquisa em tela, fazendo uso de uma metodologia de análise qualitativa, usando-se os métodos de abordagem hipotético-dedutivos de caráter descritivo e analítico, preponderando o tipo jurídico-compreensivo, tem por linha de fundo o estudo das agências reguladoras e sua adequação aos ditames normativos do dogma do princípio da tripartição dos poderes.
IMUNIDADES TRIBUTÁRIAS: ANÁLISE DA IMUNIDADE DE IMPRENSA NO ATUAL ORDENAMENTO JURÍDICO BRASILEIRO E A POSSIBILIDADE DE APLICAÇÃO EXCEPCIONAL DO INSTITUTO NAS PUBLICAÇÕES ELETRÔNICAS
Authors: Silva Tavares Rodrigo
Published: May 2016

O objetivo de investigar o instituto das imunidades tributárias, e ainda mais especificamente a imunidade de imprensa tem sua razão maior na possibilidade de aplicar-se excepcionalmente tal instituto nas publicações em mídia digital ou eletrônica. O método adotado no artigo é o chamado método dedutivo e o tipo de pesquisa adotada é a exclusivamente bibliográfica. A Constituição Federal de 1988 assegurou a imunidade tributária de imprensa apenas aos livros, jornais e periódicos impressos em papéis. Entretanto, a realidade social é outra, hodiernamente os chamados “livros eletrônicos” começam a desenvolver um papel relevante no processo pedagógico do país. Todavia, o Supremo Tribunal Federal tem sido inflexível na extensão da imunidade de imprensa nas publicações em mídia digital ou eletrônica, sobre o argumento principal se o legislador constituinte quisesse proteger o livro eletrônico teria trazido expressamente essa possibilidade no texto da norma constitucional, o que eventualmente não fez.
A UNASUL E O PAPEL DA DEMOCRACIA NOS PAÍSES DA AMÉRICA DO SUL
Authors: Coelho de Freitas Raquel
Published: May 2016

Muitas das constituições latino-americanas refletem o conjunto político-institucional que precisa ser transformado, forçando ainda a cobrança de um modelo democrático mais apropriado para cada país e para a região, com a adoção de mecanismos de democracia mais comunitária e participativa. Essa transformação já pode ser vista em alguns países como o Brasil, Colômbia, Venezuela, Equador, Bolívia e Argentina, onde os institutos de participação popular direta compõem-se ao modelo representativo, ampliando, desse modo, a margem de atuação dos cidadãos nas instâncias consultivas e deliberativas dos poderes institucionalizados. No entanto, esses instrumentos de democracia direta só trazem a eficácia necessária ao exercício da cidadania se as demais esferas constitucionais também forem democratizadas, e no âmbito regional, protegidas. Um passo importante para o fortalecimento da democracia na região foi a construção de integração política denominado União das Nações Sul-Americanas – UNASUL. Com a entrada do Tratado Constitutivo da União de Nações Sul-Americanas, em 9 de fevereiro de 2011, foi criado o Protocolo Adicional sobre Compromisso com a Democracia, assinado em novembro de 2010, na Cúpula de Georgetown, tornando-se o primeiro ato normativo em vigor. O Protocolo Adicional cria a chamada “cláusula democrática”, por meio da qual os Estados Membros reforçam seu compromisso com a promoção, defesa e proteção da ordem democrática na América do Sul. Neste artigo, o caso do Paraguai será analisado como aferição de eficácia do referido Protocolo e do reforço institucional de democracia para a região.
Sensor Network in Czech General Aviation
Authors: Kraus Jakub
Published: May 2016

This article focuses on possible use of sensor network in general aviation in Czech Republic for ensuring safety and security at small aerodromes.
Icing Operations - De-Icing Policy
Authors: Procházka Jaromír , Procházková Ivana
Published: May 2016

The accumulation of ice, frost and snow on aircraft surfaces can drastically reduce the climb and maneuvering capabilities of an aircraft. The removal of such contamination prior to take off MUST be strictly adhered to in accordance with regulations and standards. The policy with respect to aircraft icing contamination should be “MAKE IT CLEAN AND KEEP IT CLEAN”. All personnel associated with the dispatch and/or operation of aircraft share the responsibility for ensuring that no aircraft is dispatched unless it is clear of ice, snow or frost.
The Costs of Airline Service - The Short-Haul Problem
Authors: Endrizalová Eva , Němec Vladimír
Published: May 2016

Cost of airline service consist of many parameters, including load factor, which is important for airline decision making. Short-haul flights compete with many other ways of transportation on short distances which makes demand very sensitive. This brings up the question how to set optimal costs for short haul flights.
Analysis for the Implementation of LPV Approaches in the Czech Republic
Authors: Droppa Tomáš , Kraus Jakub
Published: May 2016

This paper deals with the implementation of LPV approaches in the Czech Republic. The main aim of the research is to create a detailed analysis, specifying the appropriate parameters in line with the selected implementation options of the LPV approach, as component of IFR and with the possibility of using them as advisory system based on LPV approach for VFR segment of general aviation.
Reports about Occurrence of Events with Effect on Aviation Safety
Authors: Plos Vladimír , Vittek Peter , Jeřábek Karel
Published: May 2016

This article deals with a system, that is established to report the events with effect on safety. This system is based on requirements published in Annex 13 to the Chicago Convention and legislative foundations laid down in Regulation L13, Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council (EU) No 376/2014, Decree No. 359/2006 Sb. and Act No. 49/1997 Sb. Standards and legislative rules precisely define the types of events that are subject of reporting and also define the structure and content of the reporting message. This content is consists mainly of the identification data about the airplane and crew, information about the route and a short description of the damage to the airplane. In the following, we discuss the possible use of such a system of mandatory reporting for the needs of safety indicators. Then there are proposals of changes in the content of the reporting message for the need of safety indicators. The present knowledge indicates that the use of all opportunities provided by the law for the reporting of events can lead to a creating of sufficient basis for safety indicators.
Analysis of Appropriate Methods for Assessment of Safety in Aviation
Authors: Ondrášková Jana , Kraus Jakub
Published: May 2016

This article discusses the methods used for the assessment of the safety of aviation. The aim is to introduce the methods, compare them and choose the one that would be most appropriate to use for airlines around the world, and which would therefore bring the biggest increase in the overall safety in aviation.
Traffic Information Zone and its implementation in the Czech Republic
Authors: Volena Tomáš , Kraus Jakub
Published: May 2016

This article deals with the possibility of introduction of a new type of airspace in the Czech Republic – Traffic Information Zone. It states status quo of uncontrolled aerodromes in the Czech Republic, defines Traffic Information Zone and subsequently copes with the implementation suitability of this airspace in the Czech Republic from the point of view of suitable aerodromes, necessary legislative changes and also appropriate approaches.
Approach Safety
Authors: Vittek Peter
Published: May 2016

Safety and approach are two areas which are very important in aviation. Their mutual link is also one of contemporary very important challenges that aviation faces. This article deals with an overview of the current situation in this area.
Operational Analysis Regarding the Fusion of Customer Centres Belonging to Travel Service and Czech Airlines
Authors: Mrzenová Michaela , Endrizalová Eva
Published: May 2016

This article addresses the operational analysis of a possible fusion of customer centers belonging to Travel Service and Czech Airlines. It specifically concerns itself with the current state of both these departments and on the basis of these analysis suggests possible variations of such a fusion. Obstacles in the way of an effective fusion are also dealt with in this article. Apart from identifying such hurdles, the article also suggests steps leading to overcoming these, or altering these in such a way, that they shall no longer present a problem.
The Methods of Terminal Capacity Analysis
Authors: Vokáč Roman , Lipták Tomáš , Lánský Milan
Published: May 2016

The capacity is a critical issue at many airports today. There are tools for capacity examining and management. But terminal operations are comprehensive and complex and some methods are not suitable. This paper deals with two basic approaches in methods of analyzing the terminal capacity.
Aeronautical Information Service–General Aviation Pilots interface in digital era
Authors: Matyáš Roman , Novák Andrej
Published: May 2016

Modern technologies and portable devices are part of our everyday lives almost two decades. This article describes how Aeronautical Information Service providers in Central Europe utilize modern technologies in the communication interface with general aviation pilots.
The Design of Technological Instructions for an Assembling the Aircraft Engine
Authors: Novák Martin , Daňko Petr , Lukavský Martin
Published: May 2016

This article is about a design of new technological instructions for an aviation industry. The goal of the new technological instructions is to replace the old ones. The old instructions are less clear and less suitable for new workers. A change and an upgrade of the new instructions is shown on the technological instructions for disassembling of free turbine´s blades during general overhaul. The free turbine is from the M601 engine. The new instructions should be more efficient and enhanced general overhaul.
Development of the conceptual framework for a quality improvement training programme for health professionals in the ministry of health and social services in Namibia
Authors: Nangombe Julia Paul , Amukugo Hans Justus
Published: May 2016

This article describe the process followed by the researcher in the development of the conceptual framework for a quality improvement training programme for health professionals in the Ministry of Health and Social Services in Namibia. The conceptual framework of this study was based on the Practice Orientated Theory of Dickoff (1968) that assisted with explaining the concepts used in developing the quality improvement training programme for health professionals at the health facilities. Dickoff’ s (1968) practice orientated theory consists of the agent, recipients, context, procedure, dynamics, and the terminus. In this study, the agent was a quality specialist, the recipients were health professionals, the context was the health facilities, the dynamics were challenges that health professionals were experiencing; the procedure was the training programme, while the terminus was knowledgeable and skillful health professionals in quality health care delivery.
Kinetic and equilibrium studies on adsorption of Reactive Blue 19 dye from aqueous solutions by nanohydroxyapatite adsorbent
Authors: Ciobanu Gabriela , Barna Simona , Harja Maria
Published: May 2016

In the present study the adsorption of Reactive Blue 19 dye on the hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanopowders was investigated. The batch adsorption experiments were performed by monitoring the adsorbent dosage, contact time, dye solution concentration, pH and temperature. At pH 3 and 20°C, high dye removal rates of about 95.58% and 86.95% for the uncalcined and calcined nanohydroxyapatites, respectively, were obtained. The kinetic studies indicated the dye adsorption onto nanohydroxyapatite samples to follow a pseudo-second order model. The Langmuir isotherm was found to be the best to represent the equilibrium with experimental data. The maximum adsorption capacity of uncalcined and calcined nanohydroxyapatite samples has been found to be 90.09 mg/g and 74.97 mg/g, respectively.