bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tendencias cuánticas en empresas orientadas hacia el conocimiento: Análisis de caso de una experiencia costarricense. Quantic trends in knowledge-based companies: A case analysis of a Costa Rican experience
Authors: Zúñiga Ramírez César , Solano Cordero Jennier , Bolaños Garita Rolando
Published: December 2016

Resumen

El artículo desarrolla un debate sobre la aplicación de los conceptos propios de los modelos tradicionales de la Ciencia Administrativa, a la sazón amparados bajo la llamada escuela “newtoniana”, vis a vis con aquellos más contemporáneos y asertivos, cobijados bajo la óptica de los novedosos enfoques administrativos de corte “cuántico” para el caso específico de una empresa orientada hacia el conocimiento. La indagación supone que una firma de esta naturaleza, y que es abordada como un análisis de caso en el entorno de negocios costarricense, debería presentar una visión más cercana a los enfoques más recientes de la Administración, precisamente porque, por su giro de negocios, los desafíos ambientales y organizativos que enfrenta son muy importantes. Del análisis de la información que destila de sus directores de proyectos, hemos podido concluir que, pese a lo anterior, sus puntos de vista presentan tendencias que no son lo suficientemente contestes con los enfoques cuánticos, lo que representa un factor que le resta competitividad a la compañía, así como su capacidad de adaptación y flexibilidad en el funcionamiento de sus operaciones.

 

Abstract

This article presents a debate between the application of concepts related to the traditional model of administrative sciences, included within the so-called ‘newtonian’ school, and the application of more contemporary concepts, covered under the new ‘quantic’ administrative approaches, using the specific case of a knowledge-based enterprise. The inquiry supposes that a company of this nature, which is also taken as a case study in the Costa Rican business environment, should hold a closer position to the more recent administrative focuses, especially because its business orientation presents important administrative and environmental challenges. From the information collected from the project managers involved in this firm, we have concluded that their points of view show tendencies that differ from the quantic approaches, and this constitutes an element that diminishes the enterprise’s competitiveness, as well as its capacity to adapt, and the flexibility in the functioning of its operation.
Long and Short Memory in Economics: Fractional-Order Difference and Differentiation
Authors: Tarasov Vasily E. , Tarasova Valentina V.
Published: December 2016

Long and short memory in economic processes is usually described by the so-called discrete fractional differencing and fractional integration. We prove that the discrete fractional differencing and integration are the Grunwald-Letnikov fractional differences of non-integer order d. Equations of ARIMA(p,d,q) and ARFIMA(p,d,q) models are the fractional-order difference equations with the Grunwald-Letnikov differences of order d. We prove that the long and short memory with power law should be described by the exact fractional-order differences, for which the Fourier transform demonstrates the power law exactly. The fractional differencing and the Grunwald-Letnikov fractional differences cannot give exact results for the long and short memory with power law, since the Fourier transform of these discrete operators satisfy the power law in the neighborhood of zero only. We prove that the economic processes with the continuous time long and short memory, which is characterized by the power law, should be described by the fractional differential equations.
Przyczynek do diagnostyki różnicowej bezdechów śródnocnych, współistniejących w zaburzeniach czynnościowych układu stomatognatycznego
Authors: Ey-Chmielewska Halina
Published: December 2016

Zaburzenia czynnościowe układu stomatognatycznego stanowią coraz większy problem diagnostyczny i terapeutyczny. Jednym z współistniejących objawów, zwłaszcza w zaawansowanych postaciach zaburzeń czynności stawów skroniowo-żuchwowych, są bezdechy śródnocne. Celem pracy było przedstawienie dwóch prostych metod diagnostycznych, które mogą pomóc w różnicowaniu przyczyn bezdechów śródnocnych. Pierwsza metoda dotyczy weryfikacji sposobu oddychania, druga – pomiaru obwodu szyi. Przedstawione metody są proste i mało inwazyjne. Mogą być działaniem wspomagającym diagnostykę różnicową przyczyn powstawania bezdechu śródsennego w przebiegu zaburzeń czynnościowych.
Presbyastasis – terapia zaburzeń równowagi i kontroli postawy
Authors: Gębska Magdalena , Weber-Nowakowska Katarzyna , Malinowska Joanna Malinowska , Żyżniewska-Banaszak Ewelina
Published: December 2016

Według wielu badaczy systematyczne ćwiczenia ruchowe i trening równowagi mogą prowadzić do złagodzenia objawów związanych z zaburzeniami równowagi w wieku podeszłym (presbyastasis). Zmiany organiczne związane z wiekiem, takie jak osłabione czucie dotyku i propriocepcji, zmniejszona ostrość widzenia, spowolnienie czasu reakcji, zmniejszony zakres ruchu i wady postawy, ograniczają sprawność funkcjonalną osób starszych i mogą być przyczyną upadków. Na podstawie danych z piśmiennictwa opisano wybrane metody rehabilitacji ruchowej wpływające na poprawę równowagi u osób starszych z presbyastasis.
Modeling and Simulation of a Cylinder Hoisting System for Real-Time Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing
Authors: Pawlus Witold , Liland Fred , Nilsen Nicolai , Øydna Søren , Hovland Geir , Wroldsen Torstein K.
Published: December 2016

Modeling-and-simulation software that is used in the design and development of drilling equipment provides testing and redesigning of offshore machines early in the product-development process. Typically, models of offshore equipment are complex and suitable only for offline simulations that allow testing of just predefined functions of the system without the possibility of controlling it with the operator's inputs in real time (RT). This is related to the fact that, usually, complex models put high demands on the computational power of the simulator hardware and, thus, limit its RT performance. On the basis of the authors' observations, it is concluded that RT performance can be difficult to achieve even on modern computers because of the stiff nature of hydraulic mechanical models and high demands on computational power. Therefore, it is often necessary to optimize complex models of drilling machinery for RT operation to extensively test its real control systems in a virtual-modeling environment. The methodology presented in the current paper provides for controlling a virtual model in RT by means of full-scale control hardware and software. This, in turn, allows for performing a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test and evaluation of developed control algorithms early in the machine-design phase as well as verification determining if the chosen control equipment meets the desired specifications and performance.

The current work presents an efficient way to optimize large, high-fidelity models of offshore drilling equipment. First, a complex virtual model of the selected hoisting system is created, and its simulation results are compared with the reference data logs recorded on a full-scale rig. Second, rules and guidelines for conversion of a complex model to a low-fidelity model that could be simulated in RT are formulated. Simulation results prove that both high- and low-fidelity models of the analyzed cylinder hoisting system yield comparable outcomes that correspond satisfactorily to the reference real-world rig measurements. It is concluded that, to simplify a model, it is important to determine how its particular components affect the computational efficiency of the simulation hardware and to clearly understand the functions of the machine under consideration.

The paper contributes in two areas. First, a high-fidelity virtual model of an existing hoisting system is established and validated against real measurements from the offshore-drilling rig. Second, such a complex model is simplified and confirmed to be applicable for RT HIL simulations. The results of the current work can be successfully applied to evaluate and examine real control systems in a virtual-simulation environment, to reduce the need to conduct costly on-site tests on full-scale equipment and reduce the time spent by control-systems engineers offshore, as well as to shorten commissioning time and product-delivery period.
Biochar Changes Shoot Growth and Root Distribution of Soybean during Early Vegetative Stages
Authors: Reyes‐Cabrera Joel , Leon Ramon G. , Erickson John. E. , Silveira Maria L. , Rowland Diane L. , Morgan Kelly T.
Published: December 2016

A better understanding of changes in root growth and distribution when soil is treated with biochar is needed. The aim of this study was to assess root distribution responses when biochar is added to the soil. A greenhouse study was conducted to investigate the effects of topdressing or incorporating four biochar rates on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] root distribution during early vegetative stages grown in lysimeters (depth: 35 cm). On average, topdressing either 10 or 25 Mg biochar ha−1 increased root length density (RLD) 39% and root surface area (RSA) 36% in the 0‐ to 0.05‐m soil layer compared with the control. In the 0.05‐ to 0.15‐m soil layer, incorporation of 10 Mg ha−1 increased RLD 35%. Similarly, incorporation of either 10 or 25 Mg biochar ha−1 increased RSA 38% compared with the control. Incorporation of 25 and 50 Mg biochar ha−1 in the top 0.15 m of soil increased leaf area 29 and 31% compared with topdressing 50 Mg biochar ha−1 and with the control, respectively. Biochar increased soybean RLD, RSA, and leaf area, especially when incorporated into the soil. Overall, our findings indicate that biochar application and placement within the soil affects plant‐rooting distribution, which represents an important management practice to increase RLD and RSA. Future research should focus on evaluating biochar rates and application methods under field conditions.
Mapping QTLs Controlling Agronomic Traits in the ‘Attila’ × ‘CDC Go’ Spring Wheat Population under Organic Management using 90K SNP Array
Authors: Zou Jun , Semagn Kassa , Iqbal Muhammad , N'Diaye Amidou , Chen Hua , Asif Muhammad , Navabi Alireza , Perez‐Lara Enid , Pozniak Curtis , Yang Rong‐Cai , Randhawa Harpinder , Spaner Dean
Published: December 2016

Our group previously reported five quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with plant height, test weight, thousand‐kernel weight, and grain protein content in a recombinant inbred line population derived from spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars ‘Attila’ and ‘CDC Go’, evaluated across three environments (2008–2010) under organic management and genotyped with 579 diversity arrays technology and Rht‐B1 markers. No QTL was identified for flowering time, maturity, grain yield, and number of tillers across all three environments. In the present study, we reanalyzed the same phenotypic data with a subset of 1200 informative single‐nucleotide polymorphic (SNP) markers out of the 90K SNP array and three gene‐specific markers (Ppd‐D1, Vrn‐A1, and Rht‐B1) to investigate if high marker density improves QTL detection. Here, five moderate‐ and eleven minor‐effect QTLs were detected across all three organic environments using the new genotypic data, including 13 QTLs that were not previously detected. Up to five QTLs were detected for each trait, except grain protein content, which individually accounted for 5.5 to 18.8% of phenotypic variance. For each trait, the total phenotypic and genetic variance explained by all detected QTLs varied from 9.3 to 39.4 and from 24.6 to 96.8%, respectively, which was much greater than in our previous study. One of the moderate‐effect QTLs on 5A was coincidental for flowering time and maturity and mapped close to the Vrn‐A1 gene, while the second moderate‐effect coincidental QTL on 4B was associated with both plant height and maturity but was 27 cM from the Rht‐B1 gene. Results from this study provide additional information for wheat researchers and organic wheat breeders.
Organic Carbon Convergence in Diverse Soils toward Steady State: A 21‐Year Field Bioassay
Authors: Yanni Sandra F. , Janzen H. Henry , Gregorich Edward G. , Ellert Ben H. , Larney Francis J. , Olson Barry M. , Zvomuya Francis
Published: December 2016

Core Ideas

We report long‐term SOM change in different soils transplanted to one plot.

Mainly, initial SOM concentrations highly influence change over time.

Sand and land management history influence SOM change.

High C soils lose C and low C soils gain C; thus, soils converge to new equilibrium.

Light‐fraction OM converges at a faster rate than C and N.

The response of soil organic matter (SOM) to an abrupt change in environment and management was studied in a long‐term field bioassay. Thirty‐six soils, with a wide range of SOM reflecting large differences in management, climate, and ecological histories, were selected and transported to a common site at Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. The experiment included control and N‐fertilized treatment plots. The plots were seeded annually to spring wheat and managed under no‐till rain‐fed conditions, with annual removal of aboveground residues. The soils were sampled every 7 yr and analyzed for organic C (OC), total N (TN), and light fraction C (LF‐C) and N (LF‐N). Most of the soils lost OC and TN over 21 yr, and the amount of loss was highly related to the original contents (9–74 g C kg−1, 1.4–6.4 g N kg−1). Similarly, LF‐C and LF‐N, indices of labile OM, declined in most soils, but the rate of loss was faster than for OC. In a few soils, SOM slowly increased from initially low levels. The soils seem to be progressing toward a steady state, although complete convergence of OC and TN may not occur for a century or longer based on an exponential model. Labile OM may converge within a few decades, so that these soils, conceivably, will still have widely different OC and TN but similar labile SOM, with possible implications for soil health. Our findings demonstrate the value of long‐term field bioassays for improved understanding of SOM dynamics in response to management and climate change.
Soil Characteristics Involved in Phosphorus Sorption in Mollisols
Authors: Cabello Maria Julia , Gutiérrez Boem Flavio H. , Quintero Cesar E. , Rubio Gerardo
Published: December 2016

Core Ideas

Predictive models of phosphorus sorption were developed for a group of Mollisols.

Alox was the best predictor of short‐term phosphorus sorption indices.

Feox was the best predictor for those indices that involves longer interaction periods.

Phosphorus needs to maximize yield avoiding environmental risks can be estimated with our data.

The role of different soil properties on defining the P sorption capacity was investigated in a group of Mollisols of the Pampean Region (Argentina). Two‐single point and three‐multiple point P sorption indices were evaluated. Both simple and multiple regression models indicated that ammonium oxalate extractable Al (Alox) and ammonium oxalate extractable Fe (Feox) were the main properties defining P sorption. Ammonium oxalate extractable Al prevailed as the best predictor of short‐term P sorption indices and Feox as the best predictor for those indices that involves longer interaction periods. After Alox and Feox, the best correlations were obtained for the sum of Ca and Mg. The higher P retention of soils located in the Southern part of the Region was associated with the parental material rather than with anthropogenic effects. Obtained information can strengthen P fertilization programs by providing a methodology to estimate fertilizer P requirements to optimize crop yields while reducing environmental risks.
A Influência da Capacidade Absortiva Realizada no Desempenho da PME Vitivinícola
Authors: Fuchs José Pedro Silveira , Rossetto Carlos Ricardo , Carvalho Carlos Eduardo
Published: December 2016

Este estudo procura investigar o papel das dimensões transformação e aplicação de conhecimento, que compõem a capacidade absortiva realizada no desempenho da PME vitivinícola, levando em consideração o efeito da idade da firma neste relacionamento. Foram obtidos 77 questionários válidos em uma pesquisa com produtores de uvas finas dos Estados do RS e SC, sendo utilizado o software SmartPLS para modelar equações estruturais e avaliar os relacionamentos. Como resultado, concluiu-se que o efeito da capacidade absortiva realizada no desempenho das empresas é significativamente positivo, enquanto a idade da firma não se mostrou significativamente influente na relação. As observações se apresentaram relevantes como contribuição para as pesquisas sobre a importância da capacidade de absorção de conhecimento em PMEs e a forma como ela se reflete nos índices da organização.
Uma questão brasileira em Euclides da Cunha: princípios de Geopolítica de uma região periférica
Authors: Hage José Alexandre Altahyde
Published: December 2016

O objetivo deste ensaio é analisar o pensamento de Euclides da Cunha voltado para política internacional e geopolítica do Brasil e, por extensão, da América do Sul. Embora seja considerado um dos autores que consolidaram o pensamento social brasileiro, Euclides da Cunha não deixou de se interessar por temas internacionais e de poder global, que compreende questões como a do Acre e da necessidade de se consolidar fronteiras.
NEAT HFpEF: Organic nitrates fail to deliver
Authors: Wagdy Kerolos , Hassan Mohamed
Published: December 2016

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has emerged as a major cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in last decades.1 The incidence of HFpEF continues to rise and currently it accounts for approximately half of all patients with HF, with morbidity, mortality, and health care costs on par with HF with reduced EF (HFrEF).1,2 HFpEF remains among the most challenging of clinical syndromes for the clinician and scientist, with a multitude of proposed mechanisms involving the heart and other organs and complex interplay with common co-morbidities.2 Unfortunately and to date, there is no effective form of therapy for such patients. The therapeutic picture for HFpEF has been less favorable than HFrEF. Other than an emphasis on rigorous control of hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and fluid retention, there is relatively little new that can be offered to those patients. Regular exercise is one of the few interventions which may offer modest improvement in peak exercise capacity in such patients – as evident in the PARIS study.3 The apparent failure of pharmacotherapy stems from the fact that HFpEF can be multifactorial and the molecular pathways remain largely undefined.
Hope for primary cardiovascular prevention with the HOPE (Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation)-3 trial findings
Authors: Al Suwaidi Jassim
Published: December 2016

The HOPE-3 investigators enrolled 12,705 intermediate-risk participants in 21 countries in a 2-by-2 factorial trial. Subjects were randomized to receive a fixed dose of rosuvastatin or placebo, candesartan plus hydrochlorothiazide daily or placebo, and a third group received combination of antihypertensive and statins versus double placebo. The median follow-up was 5.6 years. The combination of antihypertensive and statin therapy was associated with a significantly lower rate of cardiovascular events than dual placebo. Statin therapy alone was also associated with improved outcome, while antihypertensive therapy had no added benefit compared to placebo.
ASGR1 - a new target for lowering non-HDL cholesterol
Authors: Hassan Mohamed , Wagdy Kerolos
Published: December 2016

Non-HDL cholesterol (non-HDL-C) has been introduced as an alternative cardiovascular (CV) risk marker and a secondary therapeutic target in patients with combined hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, or chronic kidney disease. An important genetic study on the Icelandic population has recently identified a strong link between a new gene – ASGR1 (for asialoglycoprotein receptor) – mutation, plasma non-HDL-C levels, and coronary heart disease (CHD). Heterozygous carriers of a rare noncoding 12-base-pair (bp) deletion (del12 deletion) in intron 4 of ASGR1 had a 13.6 mg/dl lower level of non-HDL-C and a 34% lower risk of CHD than non carriers. The cardioprotective effect of ASGR1 loss-of-function is surprisingly larger than predicted by its effect on the levels of non-HDL-C, which suggests that the atheroprotective effects of del12 mutation go beyond the lowering of serum cholesterol levels. This has shed some light on a new path – the sialylation pathway – possibly leading to a novel therapy that neutralize ASGR1 for heart disease prevention and treatment.
Which way to grow? Force over time may be the heart’s Dao de jing
Authors: De Tombe Pieter P , Kohl Peter
Published: December 2016

Genetic cardiomyopathy manifests as either a hypertrophic or dilated phenotype. However, molecular mechanisms that determine which disease pathway emerges in patients is largely unknown. Work from the Molkentin laboratory published in the May issue of the journal Cell provides novel insights into this fundamental question. The investigators found that sarcomeric mutations associated with a reduced muscle contraction-time integral resulted in a dilated cardiomyopathy, while mutations associated with an increase in this parameter were associated with a hypertrophic phenotype. The molecular cellular cues that orchestrate which cardiomyopathic pathway ensues appear to be the signal transduction pathways involving the molecules MEK1 and ERK1/2. The identified signals driving overall growth of the heart, on the either hand, were found to involve Calcineurin and NFAT. These findings may help improve treatment strategies aimed to combat familial cardiopathy and, moreover, pave the way to the development of novel personalized medicine based therapy by using cardiac cells that are derived from individual patient’s induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells.
Current indications for insertion of rotary pumps revisited
Authors: Miller Leslie W
Published: December 2016

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death as well as morbidity in the world. While there has been continued progress in reducing the mortality of most forms of CVD, the prevalence, as well as mortality and morbidity from heart failure, continues to increase, making it a major health care problem world wide. This increase in prevalence is in part due to the correlation of increasing CVD with advancing age, but also to improved diagnostics and earlier detection as well as improved interventions for acute MI and medical management. Despite these advances, an increasing number of patients become unresponsive to therapy and progress to the advanced stage, which has a mortality as high as 70–80% at one year.
Iranian homograft tissue processing
Authors: Rouchi Alireza Heidary , Tavakoli Seyed Amirhosein , Mahdavi-Mazdeh Mitra
Published: December 2016

Tissue transplantation is a life-enhancing therapeutic modality for damaged or non-functioning tissues. In most cases, there is no alternative other than human tissue as replacement, and taking into account the ever-increasing demand for tissue grafts, it makes sense to set up an establishment in charge of human tissue procurement to meet local needs. A quality assurance system, clearly defined standards, and regular audits complement the infrastructure which make this activity feasible. The process of tissue procurement consists of donor identification, consent, tissue recovery, donor screening and testing, tissue processing, preservation, packaging, labeling, terminal sterilization, storage and distribution. The transplantation of homograft heart valves remains controversial, due to the availability of prosthetic and bioprosthetic alternatives. The limited durability of homografts has not yet outweighed the advantages which this graft offers. Adherence to regulations and regularly revised guidelines improve long-term efficacy and minimizes complications or malfunction. Furthermore, the lower price of homograft heart valves and the removal of the need for a lifetime of anticoagulation therapy are noteworthy advantages of this replacement. In our practice, the proportion of homograft heart valves meeting release criteria and successfully implanted grafts were 83% and 95%, respectively.
Insights from the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection
Authors: Evangelista Arturo , Maldonado Giuliana , Gruosso Doménico , Teixido Gisela , Rodríguez-Palomares Jose , Eagle Kim
Published: December 2016

The International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection (IRAD) was established in 1996 for the purpose of enrolling patients at large referral centres to assess the presentation, management and outcomes of acute aortic dissection (AAD). Data on presentation, diagnostic, management and outcomes were initially collected by 12 centres and then extended to 28 referral centres. All data of more than 5,000 cases were reviewed and analysed by the IRAD Coordinating Center at the University of Michigan. Since the first publication in 2000, IRAD investigators have reported a number of clinical observations, in more than 70 publications. This article will cover most of these points highlighting the findings of IRAD in patients with type A (with ascending aorta involvement) and type B (without ascending aorta involvement) AAD.
Development of an algorithm for risk-based management of wastewater reuse alternatives
Authors: Shakeri Hossein , Nazif Sara
Published: December 2016

Due to water resources limitations, special attention has been paid to wastewater reuse in recent years. The risks associated with wastewater reuse alternatives should be considered in decision-making. Even when selecting the alternative with the least risk, risk management issues are of high importance. This study aims to develop an algorithm for risk-based management of wastewater reuse alternatives. This algorithm uses a three-step risk assessment and management approach. Risks are identified, then risks of alternatives are assessed, and, finally, risk management measures are proposed for risk reduction in the selected alternative. In risk identification, economic, social, health, and environmental aspects are taken into account. In risk assessment, its three components of likelihood, severity, and vulnerability are considered through a fuzzy inference system. Alternatives are prioritized based on calculated risks using a fuzzy VIKOR method. A case study is presented in which the proposed algorithm is used to select the best alternative for reuse of treated wastewater from Ekbatan Town, located in the western part Tehran in Iran. The results showed that the proposed approach provides the users with an easier understanding of risks and increases the relative confidence of decision-makers about the selection of the best alternatives for wastewater reuse and their risk control methods.
Continuous Recognition of Multifunctional Finger and Wrist Movements in Amputee Subjects Based on sEMG and Accelerometry
Authors: Liu Junhong , Chen Wanzhong , Li Mingyang , Kang Xiaotao
Published: December 2016

Background:

While the classification of multifunctional finger and wrist movement based on surface electromyography (sEMG) signals in intact subjects can reach remarkable recognition rates, the performance obtained from amputated subjects remained low.

Methods:

In this paper, we proposed and evaluated the myoelectric control scheme of upper-limb prostheses by the continuous recognition of 17 multifunctional finger and wrist movements on 5 amputated subjects. Experimental validation was applied to select optimal features and classifiers for identifying sEMG and accelerometry (ACC) modalities under the windows-based analysis scheme. The majority vote is adopted to eliminate transient jumps and produces smooth output for window-based analysis scheme. Furthermore, principle component analysis was employed to reduce the dimension of features and to eliminate redundancy for ACC signal. Then a novel metric, namely movement error rate, was also employed to evaluate the performance of the continuous recognition framework proposed herein.

Results:

The average accuracy rates of classification were up to 88.7 ± 2.6% over 5 amputated subjects, which was an outstanding result in comparison with the previous literature.

Conclusion:

The proposed technique was proven to be a potential candidate for intelligent prosthetic systems, which would increase quality of life for amputated subjects.
Simulation Studies on Semiconductor Photonic Crystal Using Photonic Bandgap Analysis: A Realization of Optical Mirror
Authors: Nayak C. , Sarkar P. , Palai G.
Published: December 2016

In this research, we attempt to envisage the mirror application using semiconductor photonic crystal with the help of photonic bandgap analysis. The photonic bandgap of photonic crystal structure is simulated using plane wave expansion method, where photonic crystal is realized by 2D triangular photonic crystal structure with gallium arsenide as background material having periodic air holes. Simulation result revealed that both lattice spacing of crystal structure and radius of air holes play vital role in realizing optical mirror. It is observed that photonic band gap of the above structure is found, if radius of air hole varies from 16 nm to 50 nm for lattice constant of 100 nm . It is also seen that photonic band gap is found if lattice spacing varies from 200 nm to 650 nm for radius of air hole of 100 nm.
Two Subsets of Large Vessel Vasculitis Characterized by the Absence or Presence of Spondyloarthritis or its Associated Diseases
Authors: Ernst Diana , Bearlecken Niklas , Ernst Schmidt Reinhold , Witte Torsten
Published: December 2016

Background:

Whilst large vessel vasculitis (LVV) predominantly occurs in isolation, associations with other infectious and non-infectious diseases have been reported. Limited data describing associations with various autoimmune diseases (AI), including spondyloarthritis exists. The aim of this study was to characterize the association of LVV and spondyloarthritis or its associated diseases (SpAD).

Methods:

A single centre, retrospective study of patients ≥50yrs with first presentation LVV between 01.06.2008-01.06.2015 was performed. Patients were categorized according to SpA or associated disease, other AI or idiopathic LVV (iLVV). Clinical, laboratory and imaging findings were compared. Kaplan-Meyer survival analysis, with relapse taken as the primary end-point, was performed.

Results:

LVV was confirmed in 62 pts, of who 16/62 (26%) had SpA or associated disease. In these patients, LVV presented earlier (59.2 SpAD vs. 68.1 AI and 70.3yrs iLVV; p=0.01) and occurred predominantly in spring compared to autumn and winter in non-SpA patients, was associated with more centralised pattern of distribution (p=0.05) and was more likely to exhibit a refractory course (p=0.05). Overall relapse rates were similar across groups. Smoking-status influenced age of onset in all groups, being associated with earlier onset.

Conclusion:

A clear association between LVV and SpAD exists. LVV associated with SpAD has a particular phenotype characterised by earlier onset, thorax-limited disease and increased risk of a refractory course. Given on-going LVV treatment trials further genetic and pathophysiological characterization appears warranted, to evaluate potential variation in treatment response and optimize future care.
Fibromyalgia Outcomes Over Time: Results from a Prospective Observational Study in the United States
Authors: Schaefer Caroline P. , Adams Edgar H. , Udall Margarita , Masters Elizabeth T. , Mann Rachael M. , Daniel Shoshana R. , McElroy Heather J. , Cappelleri Joseph C. , Clair Andrew G. , Hopps Markay , Staud Roland , Mease Philip , Silverman Stuart L.
Published: December 2016

Background:

Longitudinal research on outcomes of patients with fibromyalgia is limited.

Objective:

To assess clinician and patient-reported outcomes over time among fibromyalgia patients.

Methods:

At enrollment (Baseline) and follow-up (approximately 2 years later), consented patients were screened for chronic widespread pain (CWP), attended a physician site visit to determine fibromyalgia status, and completed an online questionnaire assessing pain, sleep, function, health status, productivity, medications, and healthcare resource use.

Results:

Seventy-six fibromyalgia patients participated at both time points (at Baseline: 86.8% white, 89.5% female, mean age 50.9 years, and mean duration of fibromyalgia 4.1 years). Mean number of tender points at each physician visit was 14.1 and 13.5, respectively; 11 patients no longer screened positive for CWP at follow-up. A majority reported medication use for pain (59.2% at Baseline, 62.0% at Follow-up). The most common medication classes were opioids (32.4%), SSRIs (16.9%), and tramadol (14.1%) at Follow-up. Significant mean changes over time were observed for fibromyalgia symptoms (modified American College of Rheumatology 2010 criteria: 18.4 to 16.9;P=0.004), pain interference with function (Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form: 5.9 to 5.3;P=0.013), and sleep (Medical Outcomes Study-Sleep Scale: 58.3 to 52.7;P=0.004). Patients achieving ≥2 point improvement in pain (14.5%) experienced greater changes in pain interference with function (6.8 to 3.4;P=0.001) and sleep (62.4 to 51.0;P=0.061).

Conclusion:

Fibromyalgia patients reported high levels of burden at both time points, with few significant changes observed over time. Outcomes were variable among patients over time and were better among those with greater pain improvement.
One-stage Exchange Arthroplasty for Periprosthetic Hip and Knee Joint Infections
Authors: Nguyen Manny , Sukeik Mohamed , Zahar Akos , Nizam Ikram , Haddad Fares Sami
Published: December 2016

Background:

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a devastating complication of joint replacement surgery. In an aging population of the developed world, the increasing numbers of hip and knee replacements will inevitably lead to increasing incidence of PJI, carrying with (it) significant patient morbidity and cost to the health care system. Two-stage exchange arthroplasty is currently the gold standard but it is associated with multiple operations, prolonged hospitalization and impaired functionality. One-stage exchange arthroplasty is similar to the two-stage procedure but the interval between removal of the prosthesis and reimplantation of a new one is only a few minutes. It has the theoretical benefits of a single anesthetic, shorter hospitalization, less cost and improved function.

Methods:

We reviewed the current literature regarding the outcomes of one-stage exchange arthroplasties focusing on re-infection rates and functional outcomes.

Results:

Current themes around the one-stage exchange procedure include the indications for the procedure, definition of re-infection, surgical techniques used to provide fixation and differences in approach for hip and knee replacements.

Conclusion:

The current literature on one-stage exchange procedure is promising, with comparable results to two-stage revisions for hips and knees in selected patients. However, there is a great need for a large multi-centred randomized control trial, focusing on re-infection rates and functional scores postoperatively, to provide concrete guidelines in managing this complex condition.
Advancements in Diagnosing Periprosthetic Joint Infections after Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Patel Ripal , Alijanipour Pouya , Parvizi Javad
Published: December 2016

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a complication of total joint arthroplasty that is challenging to diagnose. Currently, there is no “gold standard” for definite diagnosis of PJI. A multi-criteria definition has been described for PJI based on microbiology cultures, serum markers, such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein (CRP), synovial fluid biomarkers, such as leukocyte esterase and histopathology assessment of the periprosthetic tissue. The conventional serum markers are generally nonspecific and can be elevated in inflammatory conditions. Therefore, they cannot be relied on for definite diagnosis of PJI. Hence, with the use of proteomics, synovial fluid biomarkers such as α-defensin, IL-6, and CRP have been proposed as more accurate biomarkers for PJI. Current methods to culture micro-organisms have several limitations, and can be false-negative and false-positive in a considerable number of cases. In an attempt to improve culture sensitivity, diagnostic methods to target biofilms have recently been studied. The understanding of the concept of biofilms has also allowed for the development of novel techniques for PJI diagnosis, such as visualizing biofilms with fluorescent in-situ hybridization and detection of bacteria via DNA microarray. Lastly, the use of amplification-based molecular techniques has provided methods to identify specific species of bacteria that cause culture-negative PJI. While diagnosing PJI is difficult, these advances could be valuable tools for clinicians.
Cardiovascular biomarkers of high altitude adaptation: Selection aid for livestock breeding
Authors: Giri Arup , Bharti* Vijay Kumar , Kalia Sahil , Kumar Bhuvnesh
Published: December 2016

The efficiency of oxygen usage and energy metabolism is important for high-altitude adaptation and optimum performance of animals. With regards to adaptation and productivity of high yielder animals, high-altitude stress (hypobaric-hypoxia, cold stress) is a primary concern at high altitude. The cardiovascular system is an essential link in the transport of oxygen from the air to the mitochondria, and it, therefore, has an important role in acclimatisation and adaptation to the oxygen depleted environment of high altitude. These pathophysiological changes belong to the morphological, functional, and component of the cardiovascular system which can be detected as the biomarker whenever changes are found in this system. These cardiovascular biomarkers are structural, haematological, biochemical, molecular, and genetic. This lecture has reviewed the different types of cardiovascular biomarkers which are important in high altitude adaptation and therefore may be helpful in selection of adapted animals for future breeding and rearing at high altitude. Some structural biomarkers are hypertrophy of auricle and ventricle, pulmonary arterial pressure, hypertension, myocardial contractibility, hydrothorax, ascites, etc., whereas hematocrit level, blood viscosity, plateletatic, is haematological biomarkers. Cardiac troponin-I and troponin-T, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), inflammatory markers, rennin, etc. are biochemical biomarkers. Details of these biomarkers and other related markers will be discussed in present lecture. These biomarkers concentration or levels are indicators of physiological state genetic make-up of animals of the respective environmental condition. Hence, these biomarkers along with performance and physical traits may be considered for selection high altitude adapted animals for breeding and rearing.
Aneurysmal Disease of the Main Arteries
Authors: Genyk Stepan
Published: December 2016

The high incidence of aneurysms of different arterial systems in case of abdominal aortic aneurysm causes the need for the examination of all patients with aortic aneurysm in order to detect aneurysmal process in all main arteries. The use of the mentioned predictors of aneurism wall failure in daily clinical practice provides an opportunity to improve the results of surgical treatment. Active surgical approach in relation to aortic aneurysm and main arteries is indicated in the presence of aneurismal disease. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the patient’s condition, clinical manifestations, localization of the aneurysm and its morphology, with the preference for endovascular approach.
Architektoniczna moda
Authors: Mazur Rafał
Published: December 2016

Artykuł stanowi refleksję na temat mody w architekturze. Począwszy od jej zdefiniowania, przedstawiony został ambiwalentny charakter tego zjawiska, które towarzyszy procesowi projektowemu od początku cywilizacji. Na przy- kładach z ostatnich dziesięcioleci moda zostaje pokazana jako element wzbogacający rozwój architektury oraz jako element, który nierzadko przejmuje kontrolę nad wyobraźnią architektów.
Wdrażanie zasad zrównoważonego rozwoju w realizacji budynków biurowych na terenie Niemiec
Authors: Grzelakowski Tomasz
Published: December 2016

Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie studiów przypadków wybranych obiektów biurowych, zrealizowanych zgod- nie z zasadami zrównoważonego rozwoju, w kontekście sposobu finansowania inwestycji. Projekty zrealizowane zo- stały na terenie Niemiec na początku XXI wieku. Budynki wybrano według osiągniętej punktacji w certyfikacji DGNB i następnie porównane zostały użyte w nich rozwiązania. Certyfikat wielokryterialny opisuje kompleksowo elementy istotne z punktu widzenia założeń zrównoważonego rozwoju we wszystkich trzech kontekstach: ekonomicznym, eko- logicznym i społecznym, badając, gwarantując ich jakość. Stanowi tym samym dobrą bazę porównawczą dla zagadnień zależnych od indywidualnych uwarunkowań projektowych. Wyraźnie widoczny jest wysoki poziom realizacji, w ro- zumieniu zgodności z zasadami zrównoważonego rozwoju, jak również odmienne ujęcie wynikające z komercyjnego lub nie nastawienia inwestora i jego wpływ na ich jakość. Niewątpliwie jednym z czynników wpływających na rozwój zjawiska jest marketingowe ujęcie wprowadzanych rozwiązań i spodziewane korzyści z ich zastosowania.
Voronoi diagrams – rod structure research models in architectural and structural optimization
Authors: Rokicki Wiesław , Gawell Ewelina
Published: December 2016

In modern design architecture there is an interesting trend of developing highly complex spatial systems, inspired by patterns inspired by the natural world. As a result, visually innovative solutions are being created, and what is important from an engineering point of view, also technologically efficient. The logic behind shaping “bionic” architec- ture is aimed at, among others, the rational use of materials and energy. The search for new spatial structures through multi-criteria analyses has increased the interest in digital optimization issues in multidisciplinary architectural and engineering analyses. Algorithms used to form diverse, multi-variant carrier systems based on similar boundary as- sumptions play a special role in improving computer programs. Research samples in the development of regular and irregular rod-like structures based on own developed digital models have been presented as an example of such action. The simulations conducted involved analysis of configurable structures based on their efficiency in material consump- tion.
Nanokompozyty z grafenem: wytwarzanie, właściwości i znaczenie w budownictwie
Authors: Trzaska Zdzisław , Trzaska Maria
Published: December 2016

Znaczący postęp w rozwoju nowych technologii, w tym inżynierii materiałowej, jaki się dokonał w ubiegłym dwu- dziestoleciu stawia obecnie projektowanie nowych konstrukcji i urządzeń w świetle wymagań dotąd niemożliwych do spełnienia. Konstrukcje i urządzenia wykonane z użyciem nanotechnologii całkowicie spełniają wysokie wymagania wytrzymałościowe i kreują postęp techniczny. Nanokompozyty są materiałami wyjątkowo korzystnymi pod wieloma względami i efektywnie stosowanymi w praktycznej realizacji złożonych konstrukcji oraz w inżynierii powierzchni. Spełnienie wciąż rosnących wymagań, w stosunku do bardzo obciążonych konstrukcji, szczególnie w budownictwie, przemyśle samochodowym i lotniczym, coraz intensywniej wymuszają stosowanie materiałów jednocześnie lekkich, wytrzymałych, niezawodnych i odpor- nych na działanie środowiska naturalnego. Naprzeciw takim wymaganiom wychodzą nanokompozyty o różnych osnowach i z grafenem jako fazą rozproszoną. Właściwości wybranych nanokompozytów z grafenem, metody ich wytwarzania i potencjalne obszary zastoso- wania stanowią przedmiot rozważań przedstawionych w referacie. Szczególna uwaga jest poświęcona nakompozytom metal/grafen, polimery/grafen, beton/grafen i nanokrystalicznej celulozie.
Przykłady wykorzystania opuszczonych terenów powojskowych i pokolejowych w centralnej Polsce
Authors: Muszyńska Elżbieta
Published: December 2016

Artykuł jest poświęcony problemom opuszczonych terenów powojskowych i pokolejowych, często zdegradowa- nych i oczekujących na wykorzystanie dla nowych współczesnych potrzeb. Przedstawia przykłady zarówno takich obszarów, których dalszy los jest jeszcze nieustalony, jak i tych, dla których rozpoczęto procedurę wykorzystania na określone cele. Wśród przykładów dawnych poligonów wyróżnia się Maków w Skierniewicach, który zostanie w całości przeznaczony na cele uzdrowiskowe. Uzyskanie statusu uzdrowiska zwiększy szansę na rozwój funkcji tu- rystyczno-rekreacyjnych i lepsze wykorzystanie istniejących walorów miasta i powiatu. Zupełnie inaczej potoczyły się losy dawnego poligonu Brus w Łodzi, odkupionego od wojska przez miasto Łódź w 2009 roku. Radni, którzy zade- cydowali o zakupie, mieli wiele pomysłów na zagospodarowanie tego obszaru. Terenem zainteresowany był Ogród Botaniczny i łódzkie ZOO. Wśród wielu pomysłów wymieniano między innymi: miejsce na plenerowe koncerty, pole golfowe, centrum przygotowań olimpijskich, skocznię narciarską, tor formuły 1, ZOO-safari, edukacyjno-rozrywko- wy park tematyczny, park miniatur. Jednak do tej pory nie rozpoczęto żadnych konkretnych działań, choć powstało wiele interesujących koncepcji przestrzennego zagospodarowania tego atrakcyjnego obszaru. Wśród obszarów poko- lejowych wyróżnia się teren dworca Łódź Fabryczna, czyli tak zwane Nowe Centrum Łodzi. W połowie pierwszego dziesięciolecia XXI wieku rozpoczęto działania zmierzające do sprawnego skomunikowania Wrocławia z Warszawą przez Łódź. Efektem tych działań było przystąpienie do realizacji koncepcji Kolei Dużych Prędkości i przebudowy Łódzkiego Węzła Kolejowego. Elementem realizacji obu zamierzeń stał się projekt budowy tunelu średnicowego i podziemnego dworca Łódź Fabryczna. W 2007 r. na zaproszenie Miasta i Fundacji Sztuki Świata przybył do Łodzi Rob Krier, znany światowy architekt, by zająć się przygotowaniem koncepcji architektoniczno-urbanistycznego zagospo- darowania Nowego Centrum Łodzi. Przygotowana przez Kriera koncepcja stała się później podstawą przyjętej przez Miasto uchwały o Nowym Centrum Łodzi. W 2014 roku uchwalono miejscowy plan zagospodarowania przestrzenne- go dla tego obszaru, a w 2015 roku oddany zostanie do użytku nowy podziemny dworzec.
Епідеміологія переломів проксимального відділу стегнової кістки в Україні: результати дослідження стоп (cистема реєстрації остеопоротичних переломів)
Authors: Povoroznyuk V.V. , Grygorieva N.V. , Korzh M.O. , Strafun S.S. , Vaida V.M. , Klymovytsky F.V. , Vlasenko R.O. , Forosenko V.S. , Kanis J.A. , Johansson H. , McCloskey E.V.
Published: December 2016

Переломи проксимального відділу стегнової кістки (ППВСК) є одним із найбільш тяжких ускладнень остеопорозу, що має важливе медико-соціальне й економічне значення. Загальновідомо, що їх частота поступово збільшується з віком й залежить від статі, проте епідеміологічні дані в Україні обмежені. У статті наведено результати першого українського багатоцентрового епідеміологічного дослідження СТОП (Cистема реєсТрації Остеопоротичних Переломів) щодо частоти ППВСК у осіб віком 40 років і старше. Установлено, що частота ППВСК у населення України збільшується з віком. Продемонстровано більш високі показники частоти ППВСК у чоловіків молодше 55 років із подальшим переважанням показників у жінок. Загалом показник частоти ППВСК був подібним показнику сусідніх держав (Польща та Румунія). Оскільки ППВСК є серйозною проблемою охорони здоров’я в Україні та світі, регіональні епідеміологічні дані щодо їх частоти є важливим підґрунтям для розробки загальнонаціональної системи профілактики та лікування остеопорозу та його ускладнень.