bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mediated Intra-Audience Effects in the Appreciation of Broadcast Sports
Authors: Cummins R. Glenn , Gong Zijian
Published: July 2015

Despite its ubiquitous presence in mediated sports, the influence of in-stadium crowd response on media audiences has escaped inquiry. Considerable evidence from both within and beyond the context of sports suggests that a co-spectator’s behavior can generate “intra-audience effects” that enhance perceptions of and response to game events. To test this in the context of broadcast sports, an experiment was conducted whereby participants provided moment-to-moment evaluations of radio broadcasts of soccer where mediated spectator response was systematically altered. Results demonstrate mediated intra-audience effects that yielded both inflated perceptions of the exiting nature of play and increased sense of spatial immersion in the mediated environment. The effect was most pronounced when game events were not intrinsically exciting.
Impact of Project Success Factors in Managing Software Projects in India: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Bhoola Vanita
Published: July 2015

Growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 15 percent during the last decade, the contribution of Information Technology (IT) sector to India's GDP is significant. In the continuously changing landscape of IT industry, effective project management is hence crucial. Success in software projects, in this article, is captured using both internal and external sources, broadly classified under four groups, namely, Project specific, Human Resources, Environmental and Organizational Culture, abbreviated as the PHRENTO. To identify and assess the effectiveness of these four categories on overall project success, a survey was conducted on 302 project managers who deal with IT projects in India. Data collected was analyzed using Stepwise Regression and Hierarchical Multiple Regression models. In contrast with similar international studies, the findings suggested that with better project planning, well-followed project processes, timely delivery of project as per customers' expectations, good leadership and team handling, flexible HR policies, state-of-the-art technology, attractive reward structures, and professional work environment, overall project success is achieved.
Comprehensive Coach Education and Practice Contact Restriction Guidelines Result in Lower Injury Rates in Youth American Football
Authors: Kerr Zachary Y. , Yeargin Susan , Valovich McLeod Tamara C. , Nittoli Vincent C. , Mensch James , Dodge Thomas , Hayden Ross , Dompier Thomas P.
Published: July 2015

Background:

Research evaluating the effect of comprehensive coach education and practice contact restriction in youth football injury rates is sparse. In 2012, USA Football released their Heads Up Football coaching education program (HUF), and Pop Warner Football (PW) instituted guidelines to restrict contact during practice.

Purpose:

To compare injury rates among youth football players aged 5 to 15 years by whether their leagues implemented HUF and/or were PW-affiliated.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Athletic trainers (ATs) evaluated and tracked injuries at each practice and game during the 2014 youth football season. Players were drawn from 10 leagues across 4 states. The non–Heads Up Football (NHUF) group consisted of 704 players (none of whom were PW-affiliated) from 29 teams within 4 leagues. The HUF+PW group consisted of 741 players from 27 teams within 2 leagues. The HUF-only group consisted of 663 players from 44 teams within 4 leagues. Injury rates and injury rate ratios (IRRs) were reported with 95% CIs.

Results:

A total of 370 injuries were reported during 71,262 athlete-exposures (AEs) (rate, 5.19/1000 AEs). Compared with the NHUF group (7.32/1000 AEs), the practice injury rates were lower for the HUF+PW group (0.97/1000 AEs; IRR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.08-0.21) and the HUF-only group (2.73/1000 AEs; IRR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.26-0.53). Compared with the NHUF group (13.42/1000 AEs), the game injury rate was lower for the HUF+PW group (3.42/1000 AEs; IRR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.15-0.44) but not for the HUF-only group (13.76/1000 AEs; IRR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.73-1.43). Also, the HUF+PW game injury rate was lower than that of HUF-only (IRR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.12-0.36). Higher injury rates were typically found in those aged 11 to 15 years compared with those aged 5 to 10 years. However, stronger effects related to HUF implementation and PW affiliation were seen among 11- to 15-year-olds. When restricted to concussions only, the sole difference was found between the practice concussion rates among 11- to 15-year-olds in the HUF+PW (0.14/1000 AEs) and NHUF groups (0.79/1000 AEs) (IRR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.04-0.85).

Conclusion:

These findings support comprehensive coach education and practice contact restrictions as effective methods of injury mitigation. Future research should continue evaluating similar programming within other levels of competition and sports.
Dignity Reevaluated: A Theological Examination of Human Dignity and the Role of the Church in Bioethics and End-of-Life Care
Authors: Genuis Quentin I. T.
Published: July 2015

Predominant among the terminological ambiguities that plague contemporary bioethics is confusion attending the meaning of the term “human dignity,” particularly as it applies to so-called end-of-life discussions. This study surveys current trends in treatment of the concept of dignity, examining relevant thinkers who see dignity as redundant or as capability-dependent. These inadequate views are contrasted with an attitude, based theologically in Mark 5, that understands human dignity to represent an absolute characteristic that is donated graciously to all bearers of imago Dei. Human dignity must thus be affirmed as inviolable and independent of autonomy, rationality, or capability. A specific task of the Christian Church is to faithfully recognize and proclaim this dignity. This investigation is particularly relevant in the face of contemporary discussions regarding euthanasia and physician-assisted death.

Lay Summary: Much of the polarization within the contemporary bioethical discussion proceeds out of confusion regarding how we ought to define the terms of the debate. If we may take the existing debates regarding euthanasia and physician-assisted death as an example, we may understand the vital need for a sensible definition of the term that stands at the heart of the arguments of both sides of the debate: “human dignity.” As such, this study seeks to define dignity in a logical, theological, deeply personal, and highly practical fashion, and to outline the critical role of the Church within such an understanding. Sometimes, when I walk into the room, he ignores me. Sometimes he thinks I am someone else. Most often he is asleep, subjugated by drugs designed to prevent agitation, although “agitation” is the sterilized hospital word for what I would call unbridled panic, total disorientation. The night he had the stroke, they had to tie him to the bed just to keep him in the hospital. And they wouldn't let me see him because he had been calling my name. Very dramatic, but most of his suffering, and our grief, is not dramatic. It is just the mundane process of one man slowly fading, becoming, every day, more of a stranger to himself and to those he loves.
Further generalized contraction mapping principle and best proximity theorem in metric spaces
Authors: Su Yongfu , Yao Jen-Chih
Published: July 2015

The aim of this paper is to prove a more generalized contraction mapping principle. By using this more generalized contraction mapping principle, a further generalized best proximity theorem was established. Some concrete results have been derived by using the above two theorems. The results of this paper improve many important results published recently in the literature.
Implementation of searchable symmetric encryption for privacy-preserving keyword search on cloud storage
Authors: Salam Md Iftekhar , Yau Wei-Chuen , Chin Ji-Jian , Heng Swee-Huay , Ling Huo-Chong , Phan Raphael C-W , Poh Geong Sen , Tan Syh-Yuan , Yap Wun-She
Published: July 2015

Ensuring the cloud data security is a major concern for corporate cloud subscribers and in some cases for the private cloud users. Confidentiality of the stored data can be managed by encrypting the data at the client side before outsourcing it to the remote cloud storage server. However, once the data is encrypted, it will limit server’s capability for keyword search since the data is encrypted and server simply cannot make a plaintext keyword search on encrypted data. But again we need the keyword search functionality for efficient retrieval of data. To maintain user’s data confidentiality, the keyword search functionality should be able to perform over encrypted cloud data and additionally it should not leak any information about the searched keyword or the retrieved document. This is known as privacy preserving keyword search. This paper aims to study privacy preserving keyword search over encrypted cloud data. Also, we present our implementation of a privacy preserving data storage and retrieval system in cloud computing. For our implementation, we have chosen one of the symmetric key primitives due to its efficiency in mobile environments. The implemented scheme enables a user to store data securely in the cloud by encrypting it before outsourcing and also provides user capability to search over the encrypted data without revealing any information about the data or the query.
Lipid Abundance in Zebrafish Embryos Is Regulated by Complementary Actions of the Endocannabinoid System and Retinoic Acid Pathway
Authors: Fraher Daniel , Ellis Megan K. , Morrison Shona , McGee Sean L. , Ward Alister C. , Walder Ken , Gibert Yann
Published: July 2015

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) and retinoic acid (RA) signaling have been associated with influencing lipid metabolism. We hypothesized that modulation of these pathways could modify lipid abundance in developing vertebrates and that these pathways could have a combinatorial effect on lipid levels. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to chemical treatments altering the activity of the ECS and RA pathway. Embryos were stained with the neutral lipid dye Oil-Red-O (ORO) and underwent whole-mount in situ hybridization (WISH). Mouse 3T3-L1 fibroblasts were differentiated under exposure to RA-modulating chemicals and subsequently stained with ORO and analyzed for gene expression by qRT-PCR. ECS activation and RA exposure increased lipid abundance and the expression of lipoprotein lipase. In addition, RA treatment increased expression of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha. Both ECS receptors and RA receptor subtypes were separately involved in modulating lipid abundance. Finally, increased ECS or RA activity ameliorated the reduced lipid abundance caused by peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) inhibition. Therefore, the ECS and RA pathway influence lipid abundance in zebrafish embryos and have an additive effect when treated simultaneously. Furthermore, we demonstrated that these pathways act downstream or independently of PPARγ to influence lipid levels. Our study shows for the first time that the RA and ECS pathways have additive function in lipid abundance during vertebrate development.
Leveraging transcript quantification for fast computation of alternative splicing profiles
Authors: Alamancos Gael P. , Pagès Amadís , Trincado Juan L. , Bellora Nicolás , Eyras Eduardo
Published: July 2015

Alternative splicing plays an essential role in many cellular processes and bears major relevance in the understanding of multiple diseases, including cancer. High-throughput RNA sequencing allows genome-wide analyses of splicing across multiple conditions. However, the increasing number of available data sets represents a major challenge in terms of computation time and storage requirements. We describe SUPPA, a computational tool to calculate relative inclusion values of alternative splicing events, exploiting fast transcript quantification. SUPPA accuracy is comparable and sometimes superior to standard methods using simulated as well as real RNA-sequencing data compared with experimentally validated events. We assess the variability in terms of the choice of annotation and provide evidence that using complete transcripts rather than more transcripts per gene provides better estimates. Moreover, SUPPA coupled with de novo transcript reconstruction methods does not achieve accuracies as high as using quantification of known transcripts, but remains comparable to existing methods. Finally, we show that SUPPA is more than 1000 times faster than standard methods. Coupled with fast transcript quantification, SUPPA provides inclusion values at a much higher speed than existing methods without compromising accuracy, thereby facilitating the systematic splicing analysis of large data sets with limited computational resources. The software is implemented in Python 2.7 and is available under the MIT license at https://bitbucket.org/regulatorygenomicsupf/suppa.
Longitudinal variations of brain functional connectivity: A case report study based on a mouse model of epilepsy
Authors: Erramuzpe A. , Encinas J. M. , Sierra A. , Maletic-Savatic M. , Brewster A.L. , Anderson Anne E. , Stramaglia S. , Cortes Jesus M.
Published: July 2015

Brain Functional Connectivity (FC) quantifies statistical dependencies between areas of the brain. FC has been widely used to address altered function of brain circuits in control conditions compared to different pathological states, including epilepsy, a major neurological disorder. However, FC also has the as yet unexplored potential to help us understand the pathological transformation of the brain circuitry. Our hypothesis is that FC can differentiate global brain interactions across a time-scale of days. To this end, we present a case report study based on a mouse model for epilepsy and analyze longitudinal intracranial electroencephalography data of epilepsy to calculate FC changes from the initial insult (status epilepticus) and over the latent period, when epileptogenic networks emerge, and at chronic epilepsy, when unprovoked seizures occur as spontaneous events. We found that the overall network FC at low frequency bands decreased immediately after status epilepticus was provoked, and increased monotonously later on during the latent period. Overall, our results demonstrate the capacity of FC to address longitudinal variations of brain connectivity across the establishment of pathological states.
Optimal Transport and Cournot-Nash Equilibria
Authors: Blanchet Adrien , Carlier Guillaume
Published: July 2015

We study a class of games with a continuum of players for which a Cournot-Nash equilibria can be obtained by the minimisation of some cost related to optimal transport. This cost is not convex in the usual sense, in general, but it turns out to have hidden strict convexity properties in many relevant cases. This enables us to obtain new uniqueness results and a characterisation of equilibria in terms of some partial differential equations, a simple numerical scheme in dimension one as well as an analysis of the inefficiency of equilibria.
Biased Perceptions of Racially Diverse Teams and Their Consequences for Resource Support
Authors: Lount Robert B. , Sheldon Oliver J. , Rink Floor , Phillips Katherine W.
Published: July 2015

We examine whether observers hold biases that can negatively affect how racially diverse teams are evaluated, and ultimately treated, relative to racially homogeneous groups. In three experiments, which held the actual content of observed behavior constant across diverse and homogeneous teams, observers were less willing to allocate additional resources to diverse teams. Through applying both statistical mediation (Studies 1 and 2) and moderation-of-process methods (Study 3), our findings supported the expectation that biased perceptions of relationship conflict accounted for this reduced support of diverse teams. Implications for diverse teams in organizations are discussed.
Foreign body in the maxillary sinus – a case report
Authors: Rahnama Mansur , Łobacz Michał , Kiełbowicz Dominik , Grasza Joanna
Published: July 2015

Contemporary dental treatment primarily aims at the longest preservation of the patient’s own dentition, provision of the proper function of chewing, as well as aesthetic requirements. According to literature, the percentage of successful endodontic treatment is particularly high and ranges from 92-98%. One of the most frequent complications of the endodontic treatment is overfilling of the root canal. Sometimes endodontic material penetrates to the maxillary sinus or to the mandibular canal. Here we describe a case of gigantic extrusion of endodontic material into the right maxillary sinus detected by means of a CBCT examination. Gigantic root canal overfilling can be precisely diagnosed by means of a CBCT scanning with lower effective patient dose than CT. The presented case underlines that attention must be paid to the amount of endodontic obturation material used during filling of root canals in order to prevent gross overfilling with potential extrusion of sealer to maxillary sinus.
Lipophilicity study of ursodeoxycholic acid
Authors: Dołowy Małgorzata
Published: July 2015

In this work, the researchers determined the chromatographic parameter of the lipophilicity (RMW) of ursodeoxycholic acid under various chromatographic conditions, and using the RP-TLC and RP-HPTLC methods. This chromatographic analysis was performed on different glass and aluminum plates (RP-18F254, RP-18WF254 and on RP-2F254), with the use of a mixture of various organic modifiers (methanol, acetone or dioxane) and water, in respective volume compositions. The results of these chromatographic investigations (RMW values) were compared with the partition coefficient (logP) obtained by way of the use of several theoretical methods (expressed as: AlogPs, logPKOWWIN, xlogP2, xlogP3, milogP, AlogP, and MlogP) and with the experimental logP (logPexp), respectively. The similarity between the chromatographically determined and computational calculated parameters of lipophilicity shows the possibility of applying both the chromatographic and theoretical methods to predict the lipophilicity value of ursodeoxycholic acid. The further direction of this study will be towards the application of the obtained lipophilicity parameters of examined bile acid in SAR studies (structure-activity relationships).
Synthesis and antimicrobial activity of 1-allyloxymethylpyrimidine derivatives
Authors: Wróblewski Marcin , Studzińska Renata , Wróblewska Joanna , Kołodziejska Renata , Karczmarska-Wódzka Aleksandra , Dramiński Marcin
Published: July 2015

The ways of obtaining a series of novel pyrimidine derivatives containing allyloxymethyl substituent is presented in position 1. The characterized compounds were tested for antimicrobial activity.
Dissolution testing of tablets within and beyond expiration date with olanzapine as pharmaceutical ingredient
Authors: Kluczek Karol , Sebastian Czajka Sebastian Czajka , Stańczak Andrzej
Published: July 2015

The expiration date is a guarantee from the manufacturer that a drug product will remain chemically stable - and thus maintain its full potency and safety - prior to that date. Authors of this study have checked whether tested drug product has a similar dissolution profile beyond and within expiration date. In this paper, dissolution study of Zyprexa (Olanzapine as an Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) 10 mg tablets was conducted in three different mediums, in the same way as comparison in-vitro and in-vivo tests during investigation of bioavailability and bioequivalence at clinical trials phase. Obtained results demonstrated that dissolution profiles of tested and reference product are essentially similar, which was statistically confirmed by means of similarity factor.
“Legal highs” – drugs of the twenty-first century
Authors: Różyło Magdalena , Budzyńska Barbara , Biała Grażyna
Published: July 2015

"Legal highs" is a term that embraces many compounds, including plant substances and synthetic derivatives. Trends in the use of traditional drugs of abuse by young people, are downward. On the other hand, we can observe an increasing prevalence of "smart drugs" use. These are often sold by online shops offering a wide range of products as alternatives to illegal drugs. However, the degree of risk posed by the use of “legal highs” for individual users, and for public health is unknown and difficult to assess [2,9,18]. The health risk may also increase when people use high doses of these products or mix these with alcohol or other drugs of abuse [18]. These drugs increase the risk of serious interactions and may lead to the poisoning of the body. Moreover, there is no information on their packaging about the active ingredients of the products, their dosages and their potential negative side effects. In addition, considerable variation was noted regarding the amount of information provided by online retailers about the mode of use and the health risks of the products they were selling [9]. What is more, these products fall outside pharmaceutical licensing regulations and control, and consequently their quality is not subject to scrutiny. This paper describes some of the selected substances known as "legal highs". It should be noted that the list of species of psychoactive, hallucinogenic and narcotic species, mainly plants and fungi, used to produce highs in the world, is much greater. Moreover, new psychoactive substances that appear require numerous and thorough research, and it is impossible to immediately determine the short- and long-term effects of the use of these substances. Let us hope that most of these substances will be soon under control and will be on the list of controlled substances.
The 3-I Career Advising Process and Athletes With Foreclosed Identity
Authors: Menke Donna J.
Published: July 2015

Student-athletes who identify more strongly with their athletic role than their academic life may neither encounter nor embrace the chance to explore career options. Their lack of exposure or interest to career advising may compound career immaturity and development. Gordon's (2006) 3-I (inquire, inform, integrate) decision-making process applied to career guidance may help advisors encourage professional development and personal growth among student-athletes. Integrating knowledge of self with academic information requires engagement in the inquiry and information gathering stages of the fluid 3-I cycle, which may contribute to greater career maturity, especially for the identity-foreclosed student-athlete.
Perceptions and experiences of HIV and acceptability of vaginal microbicides in Zambia
Authors: Maimbolwa Margaret , Rice Valerie Montgomery , Nkandu Esther Munalula , Hildreth James EK
Published: July 2015

Background/Aims:

The development of vaginal microbicides for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a welcome clinical and research intervention for countries heavily burdened with HIV and AIDS. These microbicides are formulated as gels, creams, films and suppositories, and work by either providing a physical barrier that keeps HIV and other pathogens from reaching the target cells or by enhancing the natural vaginal defence mechanisms. This study examines women's and men's perceptions on STIs and acceptability of vaginal microbicides.

Methods:

An exploratory qualitative research study using five focus group discussions was conducted in the Kafue and Mumbwa districts in Zambia between 2009 and 2010. Five themes were identified: i) knowledge about HIV/AIDS; ii) condom use; iii) women's options and the challenges of using existing interventions; iv) use and acceptability of a placebo microbicide gel; v) partner involvement.

Results:

In general, participants were knowledgeable about the modes of HIV transmission and prevention. The majority of participants believed that condom use was the man's decision and current available HIV prevention techniques are often not controlled by women. Although the availability and use of microbicides would greatly empower women to protect themselves and their partner, many women have little control over their choice of contraception.

Conclusions:

Most social science research to date has confirmed the urgent need women feel for an HIV prevention method that they can control, particularly in countries with a severe generalised HIV epidemic. In this study, women and men expressed positive attitudes toward the use of microbicides.
International research roundup
Authors: Richens Yana
Published: July 2015

In this section, a range of brief synopses of recently published articles from around the world that may be of interest to midwives is presented. The aim of this roundup is to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary, of the research papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
ECG of the month
Authors: Regan Martin
Published: July 2015

Martin Regan presents an ECG for you to analyse
Nurses Day: sharing care stories to combat fatigue
Authors: Myatt Rebecca , Cowan Helen , Lam Ho Yan Angie
Published: July 2015

Last month was International Nurses Day. On the 12th of May, the birthday of British nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale, nurses from the UK, and from as far as Canada, the USA and Hong Kong shared personal nursing care experiences as part of an initiative to combat compassion fatigue. Compassion fatigue is a particular problem in the nursing profession because of the amount of emotional energy required to care for patients, in addition to the many physical and mental demands. The initiative featured a series of stories from nurses in an effort to promote the importance of sharing care experiences with fellow health professionals and reflecting on those experiences in order to top up emotional reserves and continue providing the highest quality compassionate nursing care possible. Contributions from three cardiac nurses are featured here. The first is a short editorial with a nurse's thoughts about compassion fatigue in nursing. The following two are nursing care experiences, and the rest of the series can be seen at http://www.ayshamendes.com
Sharps injury reduction: Safety, training and manufacturer support
Authors: Adams Debra
Published: July 2015

Despite the legislation EU Directive 2010/32/EU on prevention of sharps injuries being in force for two years now, research shows that not all NHS trusts have revised and published their sharps policy—only 84% have. Furthermore, 33% of trusts have not instructed staff to use safety devices, and out of the staff who require sharps safety training, only just over half have received it. This article emphasises the importance placed on training by the directive, and explains how partnering with a manufacture who offers ongoing support can help with an effective conversion to safety-engineered devices (SEDs). It is important for trusts to select a manufacturer who not only offers high-quality SEDs but also provides a full support package, offering appropriate bespoke training, as well as ongoing advice, robust safety policies/procedures and help with risk assessments. These points are supported by comments from various trusts who have already converted to SEDs from their experiences.
Vision problems following stroke: Developing a best practice statement
Authors: Tolmie Elizabeth , Stanley Jennifer
Published: July 2015

An estimated 15 million people worldwide suffer a stroke each year, and in developed countries, survival is increasing. Of those who survive 30 days or more after their first event, many experience stroke-related vision and visual problems. Although screening for such problems after diagnosis of stroke is recommended, no standard method for complying with this recommendation is available. As visual problems are not always recognised by the sufferer, or obvious to others, they can be overlooked. Undetected problems result in distress to the individual and the people important to them, and may result in longer stays in hospital or repeat admissions. Health professionals in the acute care setting need to be aware that there is a risk of visual problems after stroke and have access to best practice guidance for screening, assessment and management of stroke-related visual problems. This paper describes the process used by a multidisciplinary team to develop a best practice statement for screening, assessment and management of vision problems during the acute phase of stroke.
Foundation trust status: Not what it used to be
Authors: Timmins Nick
Published: July 2015

Nick Timmins looks at the current position of foundation trusts and how financial constraints have seen their freedoms erode
Thyroid Pathology Findings in Cowden Syndrome
Authors: Cameselle-Teijeiro José , Fachal Carmen , Cabezas-Agrícola José M. , Alfonsín-Barreiro Natividad , Abdulkader Ihab , Vega-Gliemmo Ana , Hermo José Antonio
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS) is a hereditary disorder caused by germline inactivating mutations of the PTEN gene. PHTS includes Cowden syndrome and Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome. We describe how the peculiar pathologic and immunohistochemical thyroid features lead pathologists to suggest PHTS.

Methods:

A 28-year-old white Spanish woman had a multinodular goiter. Total thyroidectomy was performed after fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Microscopic, immunohistochemical, and molecular analyses of the thyroid lesions were realized.

Results:

The thyroid was multinodular, showing one papillary microcarcinoma, five follicular adenomas, three adenolipomas, 46 tiny adenomatous nodules (microadenomas), scattered foci of adipose tissue, and lymphocytic thyroiditis. Tumors were positive for thyroglobulin, thyroperoxidase, pendrin, cyclin D1, and p27 but negative for calcitonin and PTEN. A germline heterozygous deletion of one adenine at nucleotide 827 in exon 8 of the PTEN gene was confirmed. No BRAF, NRAS, or KRAS somatic mutations were detected in the papillary microcarcinoma, follicular adenoma, adenolipomas, or microadenomas. Negativity for PTEN was also found in the colonic tubulovillous adenoma and the storiform collagenoma.

Conclusions:

Pathologists play a crucial role in recognizing pathologic thyroid findings associated with PHTS for selecting patients for genetic testing.
Prognostic Significance of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes and the Tertiary Lymphoid Structures in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Treated With Adjuvant Trastuzumab
Authors: Lee Hee Jin , Kim Joo Young , Park In Ah , Song In Hye , Yu Jong Han , Ahn Jin-Hee , Gong Gyungyub
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have prognostic significance in breast cancer. The tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS) is related to the influx of TILs, and expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I in tumor cells is necessary for the effective action of TILs.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated the relationship of TILs and TLS and the expression of MHC I in 447 HER2-positive breast cancers treated with chemotherapy and 1 year of trastuzumab.

Results:

TILs were more abundant in hormone receptor (HR)−/HER2+ tumors than in HR+/HER2+ tumors. HR−/HER2+ breast cancers with abundant TILs showed a higher histologic grade, the absence of lymphovascular invasion, the presence of peritumoral lymphocytic infiltration, moderate to abundant TLSs in adjacent tissue, and stronger HLA-ABC and HLA-A expression. Abundant TILs and the absence of lymphovascular invasion were found to be good, independent prognostic factors for disease-free survival in patients with HR−/HER2+ breast cancer. The level of TILs was not associated with the patients’ prognosis in HR+ tumors.

Conclusions:

Abundant TILs are an independent prognostic factor in HR−/HER2+ breast cancers. Evaluation of TILs in HR−/HER2+ breast cancers may provide valuable information regarding the prognosis of patients treated using adjuvant chemotherapy and trastuzumab.
Therapy-Related Myeloid Neoplasms
Authors: Bueso-Ramos Carlos E. , Kanagal-Shamanna Rashmi , Routbort Mark J. , Hanson Curtis A.
Published: July 2015

Objectives

In the 2008 World Health Organization classification, cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome that arise after chemotherapy or radiation therapy for a primary neoplasm are considered together as therapy-related myeloid neoplasms (TR-MNs). This concept, however, is not universally accepted since there are confounding variables in attributing myeloid neoplasms to earlier therapies.

Methods

Cases in session 6 of the 2013 Workshop of the Society for Hematopathology/European Association for Haematopathology illustrated myeloid neoplasms thought likely to be TR-MNs, and discussed the differences and biologic similarities with de novo myeloid neoplasms.

Results

We reviewed data showing that diagnosis of TR-MN alters patient outcome only in specific subsets. The session also included examples of therapy-related AML with recurrent genetic abnormalities, such as t(15;17), inv(16), and t(8;21), and reports were highlighted showing that patients with these neoplasms have clinical outcomes similar to patients with their de novo counterparts.

Conclusions

The study of TR-MNs will likely provide insight into the pathogenesis of de novo myeloid disease and may explain why some patients with cancer develop TR-MN and evidently have a higher genetic susceptibility, whereas most patients treated with the same agents do not. These studies will also result in critical reappraisal of current concepts related to TR-MNs.
Thermal Energy Optimization of Building Integrated Semi-Transparent Photovoltaic Thermal Systems
Authors: Martial Ekoe A Akata Aloys , Njomo Donatien , Agrawal Basant
Published: July 2015

Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) : The concept where the photovoltaic element assumes the function of power generation and the role of the covering component element has the potential to become one of the principal sources of renewable energy for domestic purpose. In this paper, a Building integrated semitransparent photovoltaic thermal system (BISPVT) system having fins at the back sheet of the photovoltaic module has been simulated. It has been observed that this system produces higher thermal and electrical efficiencies. The increase of wind velocity by fan system and heat exchange surface accelerates the convective heat transfer between the finned surface and the fluid flowing in the duct. The system area of 36.45 m2 is capable of annually producing an amount of thermal energy of 76.66 kWh at an overall thermal efficiency of 56.07 %.
Gasification of ‘Loose’ Groundnut Shells in a Throathless Downdraft Gasifier
Authors: Kuhe Aondoyila , Aliyu Samuel Jacob
Published: July 2015

In this paper, gasification potential of biomass residue was investigated using a laboratory scale throatless downdraft gasifier. Experimental results of groundnut shell was gasified in the throatless downdraft gasifier to produce a clean gas with a calorific value of around 5.92 MJ/Nm3 and a combustible fraction of 45% v/v. Low moisture (8.6%) and ash content (3.19%) are the main advantages of groundnut shells for gasification. It is suggested that gasification of shell waste products is a clean energy alternative to fossil fuels. The product gas can be used efficiently for heating and possible usage in internal combustion engines.
Historic Developments, Current Technologies and Potential of Nanotechnology to Develop Next Generation Solar Cells with Improved Efficiency
Authors: Raval Nisith , Gupta Ajay Kumar
Published: July 2015

Sun is the continuous source of renewable energy, from where we can get abundant of solar energy. Concept of conversionof solar energy into heat was used back in 200 B.C. since then, the solar cells have been developed which can convert solar energy into theelectrical energy and these systems have been produced commercially. The technologies to enhance the power conversion efficiency (PCE)have been continuously improved. Different technologies used for developing solar cells can be categorized either on the basis of materialused or techniques of technology development which is further termed as ‘first generation’ (e.g. crystalline silicon), ‘second generation’(thin films of Amorphous silicon, Copper indium gallium selenide, Cadmium telluride), ‘Third generation’ (Concentrated, Organic and Dyesensitize solar cell). These technologies give PCE up to 25% depending on the technology and the materials used. Nanotechnology enablesthe use of nanomaterial whose size is below 100 nm with extraordinary properties which has the capability to enhance the PCE to greaterextent. Various nanomaterials like Quantum Dots, Quantum well, carbon nanotubes, Nanowire and graphene have been used to makeefficient and economical solar cells, which not only provide high conversion efficiency economically but also are easy to produce. Today,by using nanotechnology, conversion efficiency up to 44.7 % has been achieved by Fraunhofer Institute at Germany. In this review article,we have reviewed the literature including various patents and publications, summarized the history of solar cell development, developmentof different technologies and rationale of their development highlighting the advantages and challenges involved in their development forcommercial purpose. We have also included the recent developments in solar cell research where different nanomaterials have beendesigned and used successfully to prove their superiority over conventional systems.
Prediction and validation of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) on plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR): a step toward development of nano-biofertilizers
Authors: Shukla Shashi Kant , Kumar Rajesh , Mishra Rohit Kumar , Pandey Anand , Pathak Ashutosh , Zaidi MGH , Srivastava Sanjeev Kr. , Dikshit Anupam
Published: July 2015

Several soil microbes are present in the rhizosphere zone, especially plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), which are best known for their plant growth promoting activities. The present study reflects the effect of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) at various concentrations on the growth of PGPR. GNPs were synthesized chemically, by reduction of HAuCl4, and further characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction technique (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), etc. The impact of GNPs on PGPR was investigated by Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) recommended Broth-Microdilution technique against four selected PGPR viz., Pseudomonas
fluorescens, Bacillus
subtilis, Paenibacillus elgii, and Pseudomonas putida. Neither accelerating nor reducing impact was observed in P. putida due to GNPs. On the contrary, significant increase was observed in the case of P.
fluorescens, P. elgii, and B.
subtilis, and hence, GNPs can be exploited as nano-biofertilizers.
La objetividad de la información política
Authors: Hernández Rodríguez Ciro
Published: July 2015

La permanente necesidad de arrojar claridad sobre la siempre difícil relación entre la política y la información nos debe llevar a una constante revisión de estos conceptos, de sus aplicaciones y prácticas, y también de la relación entre ellos, con la finalidad de mejorar la función institucional de ambos. La doctrina liberal postuló desde sus propios orígenes históricos la importancia crucial que tiene la libertad de prensa para estructurar la función del control público democrático del gobierno. De ahí la trascendencia que se otorgó a la independencia y objetividad de las informaciones hasta que se dejó de creer en la objetividad como principio informativo. Esta es una investigación de metodología cualitativa basada en el resultado de otras investigaciones la mayoría de las cuales es de base cuantitativa. En ella nos proponemos demostrar qué lejos se encuentra en la actualidad la práctica informativa habitual en España de estos requisitos de objetividad e independencia y cuales pueden llegar a ser sus consecuencias. Dadas las transformaciones que introducen las TIC (Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación) y la comunicación en RED en el sistema informativo, los medios de información de masas tradicionales podrían llegar a desaparecer, al menos tal y como los hemos conocido hasta el momento.
Improvement of Wrinkles in Roll-to-Roll Microwave Plasma CVD Graphene
Authors: Yamada Takatoshi , Shimada Nayuta , Uekusa Kazuki , Hasegawa Masataka
Published: July 2015

Wrinkle-less graphene films are obtained through roll-to-roll microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition by using flexible copper/polyimide (Cu/PI) webs. Raman spectra suggests that the average domain size of the obtained graphene on the flexible Cu/PI is almost the same compared to the graphene on a Cu web that includes wrinkles. Also, by utilizing the flexible Cu/PI webs, the compressive strains decreased. The sheet resistances of graphene deposited on the Cu/PI are (1∼5)×104Ω, which is two orders of magnitude lower than those of graphene deposited on the Cu webs. Our results suggest that the controlling the expansion of web material an important technology to improve graphene transparent conductive properties.
Risco de adoecimento por exposição às águas do Rio Doce: um estudo sobre a percepção da população de Tumiritinga, Minas Gerais, Brasil
Authors: Guedes Gilvan Ramalho , Simão Andréa Branco , Dias Carlos Alberto , Braga Eliza de Oliveira
Published: July 2015

A forte relação das pessoas com o Rio Doce, bem como suas enchentes regulares, representam fator contínuo de exposição ao risco de doenças hídricas. Dada sua relevância epidemiológica, este estudo analisa a associação entre percepção de contaminação e uso do rio, bem como os mecanismos heurísticos empregados na formação da percepção de risco. Utilizou-se um modelo probit ordenado com variável instrumental e análise de redes temáticas aplicados a uma base de dados primária de 352 domicílios, representativa dos moradores de Tumiritinga, Minas Gerais, Brasil, para o ano de 2012. Os resultados indicam que embora a maioria (92,6%) dos moradores de Tumiritinga perceba o risco de contrair algum tipo de doença quando nada no Rio Doce, somente 11,4% informam não entrar na água. A análise de conteúdo sugere que esse paradoxo advém da falta de compreensão populacional sobre os mecanismos de transmissão de doenças hídricas, criando viés otimista sobre as chances de contaminação. Campanhas para promoção de comportamento preventivo devem, portanto, enfatizar as formas de contrair doenças hídricas na região.
Fatores associados a acidentes de trabalho envolvendo trabalhadores informais do comércio
Authors: Rios Marcela Andrade , Nery Adriana Alves , Rios Polianna Alves Andrade , Casotti Cezar Augusto , Cardoso Jefferson Paixão
Published: July 2015

O estudo objetivou estimar a incidência de acidentes de trabalho não fatais sobre trabalhadores informais do comércio e analisar os fatores associados a esses eventos quanto aos aspectos sociodemográficos, ocupacionais, condições laborais e de saúde. Realizou-se estudo transversal com 434 trabalhadores em área comercial do Município de Jequié, Bahia, Brasil, em 2013. A regressão logística foi utilizada para avaliar os possíveis fatores associados ao acidente. Estimou-se a incidência de acidentes de trabalho (nos últimos 12 meses) em 32,3%, e a análise multivariada revelou maior chance de ocorrência de acidente entre trabalhadores do sexo masculino (OR = 1,61), jovens (OR = 4,62), comerciantes de carnes/frangos (OR = 9,55) e aqueles que apresentam alto esforço físico (OR = 1,71). Com a análise dos resultados, verifica-se a necessidade de políticas públicas voltadas para a prevenção de acidentes no setor informal comércio.
Mobility, balance and muscle performance according to self-efficacy for falls in the elderly
Authors: Silva Carolina Raíssa Bento Pereira da , Guerra Ricardo Oliveira , Fonsêca Aline Medeiros Cavalcanti da , Gomes Andréa de Carvalho , Maciel Álvaro Campos Cavalcanti
Published: July 2015

Introduction Changes in mobility, postural balance and muscle strength in the aging process may cause a fall in the elderly by changing or not perceived self-efficacy in preventing falls, the goal is to compare mobility, body balance and muscle performance according to self-efficacy for falls in community-dwelling elderly women. Materials and methods A comparative study of cross-section, with 63 community-dwelling elderly. We evaluated sociodemographic data, cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination), efficacy for falls (International Efficacy Scale for Falls, Brazil), mobility (Timed Up and Go Test), body balance by Berg Balance Scale, Balance Master System: Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (mCTSIB), Tandem walk (TW) Sit to Stand (STS) and muscular performance by isokinetic dynamometry. Using the cutoff point at or above 23 points, two groups, G1 with low perceived efficacy in preventing falls (n = 36) and G2 with high perceived efficacy in preventing falls (n = 27) were allocated. Student’s t test was performed for comparison between groups, with p value of 0.05. Results Comparing the elderly women regarding the efficacy of falls, significant differences were observed in the variables Timed Up and Go Test (p = 0.04), speed of oscillation test mCTSIB (p = 0.01) and the isokinetic dynamometry knee extension movement, peak torque (p = 0.04) and power (p = 0.03). Conclusion Comparing community-dwelling elderly women with low and high efficacy for falls, significant differences were in variables related to mobility, body balance and muscle function.
Exacerbation and functional capacity of patients with COPD undergoing an exercise training program: longitudinal study
Authors: Marino Diego Marmorato , Marrara Kamilla Tays , Arcuri Juliano Ferreira , Candolo Cecília , Jamami Mauricio , Di Lorenzo Valéria Amorim Pires
Published: July 2015

Objective To analyze if there is influence of body weight, body mass index (BMI), body composition, dyspnoea, grip strength and tolerance to exertion in the occurrence of exacerbation during a 12-month follow up of patients with COPD who underwent a physical training program. Material and methods Sixty three patients were distributed in two groups, (Exacerbation Group — EG, n = 29; Non-Exacerbated Group — NEG, n = 34). The Mann Whitney test was used for the comparison between groups, the Friedman test (posthoc Dunn) to compare the assessments and the logistic regression analysis, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results There is a significant difference between the groups in age and walked distance (WD) in the sixminute walk test (6MWT). The WD was reduced in 6th, 9th and 12th month revaluation compared to baseline and 3 months for the EG. Logistic regression analysis showed a significant interaction between the lean body mass and the WD, BMI with the lean body mass and the BMI with the WD, this and the isolated dyspnoea, and lean body mass with body weight. Conclusion Involving several variables along the follow up of patients with COPD in physical therapy programs is important, since it may prevent or reduce the chance of the occurrence of exacerbations. In addition, older patients with less tolerance to physical activity had a higher number of episodes of exacerbation, even when participating in a physiotherapy program associated to exercise training.