bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Einsteinian no-signalling violated in Bell tests?
Authors: Kupczynski Marian
Published: November 2017

Relativistic invariance is a physical law verified in several domains of physics. The impossibility of faster than light influences is not questioned by quantum theory. In quantum electrodynamics, in quantum field theory and in the standard model relativistic invariance is incorporated by construction. Quantum mechanics predicts strong long range correlations between outcomes of spin projection measurements performed in distant laboratories. In spite of these strong correlations marginal probability distributions should not depend on what was measured in the other laboratory what is called shortly: non-signalling. In several experiments, performed to test various Bell-type inequalities, some unexplained dependence of empirical marginal probability distributions on distant settings was observed. In this paper we demonstrate how a particular identification and selection procedure of paired distant outcomes is the most probable cause for this apparent violation of no-signalling principle. Thus this unexpected setting dependence does not prove the existence of superluminal influences and Einsteinian no-signalling principle has to be tested differently in dedicated experiments. We propose a detailed protocol telling how such experiments should be designed in order to be conclusive. We also explain how magical quantum correlations may be explained in a locally causal way.
Focused transhepatic electroporation mediated by hypersaline infusion through the portal vein in rat model. Preliminary results on differential conductivity
Authors: Pañella Clara , Castellví Quim , Moll Xavier , Quesada Rita , Villanueva Alberto , Iglesias Mar , Naranjo Dolores , Sánchez-Velázquez Patricia , Andaluz Anna , Grande Luís , Ivorra Antoni , Burdío Fernando
Published: November 2017

Background

Spread hepatic tumours are not suitable for treatment either by surgery or conventional ablation methods. The aim of this study was to evaluate feasibility and safety of selectively increasing the healthy hepatic conductivity by the hypersaline infusion (HI) through the portal vein. We hypothesize this will allow simultaneous safe treatment of all nodules by irreversible electroporation (IRE) when applied in a transhepatic fashion.

Material and methods

Sprague Dawley (Group A, n = 10) and Athymic rats with implanted hepatic tumour (Group B, n = 8) were employed. HI was performed (NaCl 20%, 3.8 mL/Kg) by trans-splenic puncture. Deionized serum (40 mL/Kg) and furosemide (2 mL/Kg) were simultaneously infused through the jugular vein to compensate hypernatremia. Changes in conductivity were monitored in the hepatic and tumour tissue. The period in which hepatic conductivity was higher than tumour conductivity was defined as the therapeutic window (TW). Animals were monitored during 1-month follow-up. The animals were sacrificed and selective samples were used for histological analysis.

Results

The overall survival rate was 82.4% after the HI protocol. The mean maximum hepatic conductivity after HI was 2.7 and 3.5 times higher than the baseline value, in group A and B, respectively. The mean maximum hepatic conductivity after HI was 1.4 times higher than tumour tissue in group B creating a TW to implement selective IRE.

Conclusions

HI through the portal vein is safe when the hypersaline overload is compensated with deionized serum and it may provide a TW for focused IRE treatment on tumour nodules.
Mechanical alloying of CuFe-alumina nanocomposite: study of microstructure, corrosion, and wear properties
Authors: Baghani Mohammad , Aliofkhazraei Mahmood , Seyfoori Amir , Askari Mehdi
Published: November 2017

The effects of adding Al2O3 nanoparticles on the microstructure, tribological, magnetic, and corrosion properties of CuFe-Al2O3 nanocomposites were investigated in this work. The mixture of Cu-25 wt.% Fe powder with 5 vol.% Al2O3 was mechanically milled. X-ray diffraction results revealed that after 60 h of mechanical alloying, CuFe solid solution was formed. Magnetic hysteresis loops of the mechanically alloyed powders were extracted at room temperature. The morphology and elemental analysis of the sintered specimens were studied by field emission scanning electron microscope (SEM). It was observed that uniform distribution and embedding of Al2O3 nanoparticles in the CuFe alloy matrix in nanocomposites were achieved, which exhibited excellent performances. Tribological properties were evaluated through a pin-on-disk wear test, and it was found that by the addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles to CuFe alloy, the weight loss rate was reduced by 30%. The existence of Al2O3 nanoparticles in the matrix of CuFe alloy causes the wear mechanism change from adhesive to abrasive, which means a considerable wear resistance was obtained in nanocomposites. The corrosion properties of the sintered samples in a solution of 3.5% NaCl were studied by potentiodynamic polarization. With the addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles, the corrosion rate of the alloy was reduced by 75%.
Conceptual study for long-term monitoring of chemotherapeutic induced cell reactions by ESPI
Authors: Gottschalk Josefine Johanna , Stollfuß Carsten , Lietzau Kai-Henning , Foitzik Andreas H. , Richetta Maria
Published: November 2017

During the last years, various approaches on an individualized drug therapy for benign cells have been
researched. However, due to the complex topic a universal approach has not been found up until this point. Commonly, the
effect of cytotoxic drugs on benign cells is in most cases the same compared to regular cells while the actual effect on
patient still can't be predicted. In order to reduce unwanted side effects or unspecific drug reactions a test system for
patients which allows to analyse the interaction between cytotoxic agents and the targeted cells is needed. Furthermore,
this should also include an adequate measurement system which is capable to work in a natural environment and without any
additional preparation. In terms of this work, a first proof of concept with different benign cells and cytotoxic agents
is presented while monitoring the obtained displacement using electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI).
Justice, Gender, and Corporations. Outline of a Feminist Political Philosophy of the Corporation
Authors: Hamrouni Naïma , Néron Pierre-Yves
Published: November 2017

Corporations, as institutions that participate in the creation and perpetuation of gender-based injustices, have been neglected by feminist political philosophers and egalitarians in general. However, since gender-based inequalities within the family, the market, and in democratic participation are interconnected, critically scrutinizing institutions such as corporate organizations appears to be essential in order to achieve gender justice. This is our goal in this paper. In the first part, we look at the (surprising) domination of the ethics of care in the feminist literature on corporations. Since it focuses essentially on the goal of developing virtuous managers, we conclude that this ethics of care is misleading when it comes to thinking about the kinds of relations that characterize corporations and their much needed organizational transformation. In the second part, we attempt to highlight and articulate more explicitly the need for a critical analysis of corporations from the point of view of gender justice. Finally, having shown how purely “distributive” approaches of gender justice are unsatisfactory, we finish by outlining a multidimensional approach to gender (in)justice within and by corporate organizations. We do so by drawing on the insights of distributive, participatory, and relational accounts of equality.
Sesquiterpenes from the Saudi Red Sea: Litophyton arboreum with their cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities
Authors: Abou El-Kassem Lamia T. , Hawas Usama W. , El-Desouky Samy K. , Al-Farawati Radwan
Published: November 2017

A new pseudoguaiane-type sesquiterpene named litopharbol (1) was isolated from the methanolic extract of the Red Sea soft coral Litophyton arboreum, along with known sesquiterpenoids alismol (2), alismorientol B (3), teuhetenone A (4), and calamusin I (5); steroid, 24-methyl-cholesta-5,24(28)-diene-3β-ol (6), alkyl glyceryl ether, chimyl alcohol (7); sphingolipid, erythro-N-dodecanoyl-docosasphinga-(4E,8E)-dienine (8); and nitrogenous bases, thymine (9) and thymidine (10). The structures were determined on the basis of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic (1D and 2D NMR data including heteronuclear single quantum coherence spectroscopy, heteronuclear multiple-bond correlation spectroscopy, and nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy) and mass spectrometric analyses. Compounds 1–5 were explored for antimicrobial activity and cancer cell line sensitivity tests. Compound 1 exhibited antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus with a minimum inhibition concentration of 1.8 μg/mL, whereas compound 3 showed significant potent cytotoxic effect against MCF-7 (breast cancer cells) with IC50 4.32 μM.
Physiological and Performance Effects of Caffeine Gum Consumed During a Simulated Half-Time by Professional Academy Rugby Union Players
Authors: Russell Mark , Reynolds Nicholas A. , Crewther Blair T. , Cook Christian J. , Kilduff Liam P.
Published: November 2017

Russell, M, Reynolds, NA, Crewther, BT, Cook, CJ, and Kilduff, L. Physiological and performance effects of caffeine gum consumed during a simulated half-time by professional academy rugby union players. J Strength Cond Res 34(1): 145–151, 2020—Despite the prevalence of caffeine (CAF) as an ergogenic aid, few studies have examined the use of caffeinated gums, especially during half-time in team sports. The physiological (blood lactate and salivary hormone concentrations) and performance (repeated sprints and cognitive function) effects of consuming CAF gum during a simulated half-time were examined. Professional academy rugby union players (n = 14) completed this double-blind, randomized, counterbalanced study. After pre-exercise measurements, players chewed a placebo (PLC) gum for 5 minutes before a standardized warm-up and completing repeated sprint testing (RSSA1). Thereafter, during a 15-minute simulated half-time period, players chewed either CAF (400 mg; 4.1 ± 0.5 mg·kg−1) or PLC gum for 5 minutes before completing a second repeated sprint test (RSSA2). Blood lactate, salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations, and indices of cognitive function (i.e., reaction time and Stroop test) were measured at baseline, pre-RSSA1, post-RSSA1, pre-RSSA2, and post-RSSA2. Sprint performance was not affected by CAF (p = 0.995) despite slower sprint times after the first sprint of both RSSA tests (all p < 0.002). After half-time, salivary testosterone increased by 70% (+97 ± 58 pg·ml−1) in CAF vs. PLC (p < 0.001), whereas salivary cortisol remained unchanged (p = 0.307). Cognitive performance was unaffected by time and trial (all p > 0.05). Although performance effects were absent, chewing CAF gum increased the salivary testosterone concentrations of professional rugby union players over a simulated half-time. Practitioners may, therefore, choose to recommend CAF gum between successive exercise bouts because of the increases in salivary testosterone observed; a variable associated with increased motivation and high-intensity exercise performance.
El FMLN y las memorias de la guerra civil salvadoreña
Authors: López Bernal Carlos Gregorio
Published: November 2017

Este artículo estudia la construcción de las memorias de la guerra civil salvadoreña (1981-1992) desde una perspectiva histórica. Se propone que la guerra es recordada desde la especifcidad de la experiencia de los diferentes actores de izquierda, lo cual da lugar a múltiples memorias, de las cuales se dan algunos ejemplos. Las memorias de la guerra civil no pueden entenderse si no se consideran las experiencias de organización y lucha de la década de 1970, que han sido absorbidas por la memoria ofcial del Frente Farabundo Martí para la Liberación Nacional (FMLN), hoy en día partido político. Al apropiarse de esas memorias, el FMLN hace un uso político del pasado en función de su proyecto político actual que dista mucho del proyecto revolucionario.
Dietary interventions to prevent and manage diabetes in worksite settings: a meta-analysis
Authors: Shrestha Archana , Karmacharya Biraj Man , Khudyakov Polyna , Weber Mary Beth , Spiegelman Donna
Published: November 2017

Objectives

The translation of lifestyle intervention to improve glucose tolerance into the workplace has been rare. The objective of this meta-analysis is to summarize the evidence for the effectiveness of dietary interventions in worksite settings on lowering blood sugar levels.

Methods

We searched for studies in Pub-Med, Embase, Econlit, Ovid, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. Search terms were as follows : (1) Exposurebased: nutrition/diet/dietary intervention/health promotion / primary prevention / health behavior / health education/food /program evaluation; (2) Outcome-based: diabetes/hyperglycemia/glucose/HbA1c/glycated hemoglobin; and (3) Setting-based: workplace/worksite/occupational/industry/job/employee. We manually searched review articles and reference lists of articles identified from 1969 to December 2016. We tested for between-studies heterogeneity and calculated the pooled effect sizes for changes in HbA1c (%) and fasting glucose (mg/dl)using random effect models for meta-analysis in 2016.

Results

A total of 17 articles out of 1663 initially selected articles were included in the meta-analysis. With a random-effects model, worksite dietary interventions led to a pooled −0.18% (95% CI, −0.29 to −0.06; P<0.001) difference in HbA1c. With the random-effects model, the interventions resulted in 2.60 mg/dl lower fasting glucose with borderline significance (95% CI: −5.27 to 0.08, P= 0.06). In the multivariate meta-regression model, the interventions with high percent of female participants and that used the intervention directly delivered to individuals, rather the environment changes, were associated with more effective interventions.

Conclusion

Workplace dietary interventions can improve HbA1c. The effects were larger for the interventions with greater number of female participants and with individual-level interventions.
Pancreatic Gangliocytic Paraganglioma – CEUS Appearance
Authors: Furcea Luminița , Moiș Emil , Al Hajjar Nadim , Seicean Andrada , Badea Radu , Graur Florin
Published: November 2017

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New Epidemiologic Data Regarding Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Romania
Authors: Manuc Mircea , Preda Carmen M. , Popescu Corneliu P. , Baicuș Cristian , Voiosu Theodor , Pop Corina S. , Gheorghe Liana , Sporea Ioan , Trifan Anca , Tanțău Marcel , Tanțău Alina , Ceaușu Emanoil , Proca Doina , Constantinescu Ileana , Ruta Simona M. , Fulger Larisa E. , Diculescu Mircea , Oproiu Alexandru
Published: November 2017

Background & Aims: Literature data suggest that HCV genotype-1b is present in 93-99% of the Romanian patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We present the genotyping tests recently performed on patients with HCV and advanced fibrosis eligible for the Direct-Acting Antiviral (DAA) therapy, as well as the prevalence of these cases across Romania.Methods: The genotyping method was performed on 7,421 HCV patients with advanced fibrosis. The detection method was automatic real time PCR platform M2000 (Abbott). Every subject was introduced into a database including age, sex, county and address.Results: Genotype 1b was almost exclusively present: 7,392/7,421 (99.6%). Genotype 1b patients were 19.6% from Bucharest, 49% were males, with a median age of 60 years. Genotype non-1b was encountered in 29/7,421 subjects (0.4%), 62% were males, 69% from Bucharest and the median age was 52 years. Most of the subjects (75%) were in the 6th and 7th age decade. The prevalence of these cases varied significantly across Romanian counties: the highest was in Bucharest (61.3/105), Bihor (47/105), Iasi (46/105) and Constanța (43/105), and the lowest in Ilfov (2.8/105), Harghita (3.7/105), Covasna (5.4/105) and Maramureș (8.8/105) (p<0.001).Conclusions: Genotype 1b is encountered in 99.6% of patients with chronic hepatitis C and advanced fibrosis from Romania. The presence of genotypes non-1b is more common in Bucharest, in males and at a younger age. There are significant differences regarding the distribution of these cases across Romania: the highest rates are in Bucharest, Bihor, Iasi and Constanta.Abbreviations: BMI: body mass index; DAA: direct-acting antiviral agent; GT: genotype; HBV: hepatitis B virus; HCC: hepatocellular carcinoma; HCV: hepatitis C virus; IDU: intravenous drug users; MELD: model for end stage liver disease; NASH: non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; SVR; sustained virologic response.
PPIs Prevent Aspirin-Induced Gastrointestinal Bleeding Better than H2RAs. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Szabó Imre L. , Mátics Robert , Hegyi Péter , Garami Andras , Illés Anita , Sarlós Patricia , Bajor Judit , Szűcs Ákos , Mosztbacher Dóra , Márta Katalin , Szemes Kata , Csekő Kata , Kővári Bálint , Rumbus Zoltán , Vincze Áron
Published: November 2017

Background & Aims: Aspirin is one of the most widely used medication for its analgesic and anti-platelet properties and thus a major cause for gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. This study compared the preventive effect of histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) against chronic low-dose aspirin (LDA)-related GI bleeding and ulcer formation.Methods: Electronic databases of Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for human observations (randomised controlled trials and observational studies) comparing the long term effects of PPIs and H2RAs treatment in the prevention of GI bleeding or ulcer formation in patients on chronic LDA treatment listed up till September 30, 2016. Two independent authors searched databases using PICO questions (aspirin, H2RA, PPI, GI bleeding or ulcer), and reviewed abstracts and articles for comprehensive studies keeping adequate study quality. Data of weighted odds ratios were statistically evaluated using Comprehensive Metaanalysis (Biostat, Inc., Engelwood, MJ, USA), potential bias was checked.Results: Nine studies for GI bleeding and eight studies for ulcer formation were found meeting inclusion criteria, altogether 1,879 patients were included into review. The H2RAs prevented less effectively LDA-related GI bleeding (OR= 2.102, 95% CI: 1.008-4.385, p<0.048) and ulcer formation (OR= 2.257, 95% CI: 1.277-3.989, p<0.005) than PPIs.Conclusion: The meta-analysis showed that H2RAs were less effective in the prevention of LDA-related GI bleeding and ulcer formation suggesting the preferable usage of PPIs in case of tolerance.Abbreviations: COX -1: cyclooxygenase-I enzyme; COX-2: cyclooxygenase-II enzyme; GI: gastrointestinal; H2RA(s): histamine-2 receptor antagonist(s); H. pylori: Helicobacter pylori; LDA: low dose aspirin; NSAID(s): non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug(s); OR: Odds ratio; PPI(s): proton-pump inhibitor(s); RCT: randomized controlled trial; RR: relative risk; UGIB: upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Nodule-in-Nodule Imaging Pattern in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated by Transarterial Chemoembolization – a Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Scheau Andreea E. , Scheau Cristian , Lupescu Ioana G.
Published: November 2017

Background & Aims: Emerging minimally invasive treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can significantly improve a patient’s prognosis, but they may alter the imaging features of the treated nodules. This study focuses on a series of patients presenting with a rare pathology, the nodule-in-nodule imaging pattern of HCC, analyzes the imaging features and discusses possible approaches for the diagnosis of tumoral recurrence.Method: Nine patients recruited over two years, having HCC with nodule-in-nodule imaging pattern on diagnosis, and treated by transarterial chemoembolization were monitored by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Nodule morphology, dynamic contrast behavior and size progression were followed in this study.Results: All patients showed tumor recurrence. In 7 nodules, a T2 weighted-imaging hyperintense signal of the HCC foci was found, with isointensity of the background nodule. Restricted diffusion within the HCC foci was found in 6 cases but with no statistical significance. Dynamic contrast images evaluation showed a “classical” enhancement pattern in five patients. All nodules had hypointense HCC foci in the hepatobiliary phase. Four patients demonstrated progressive disease according to the mRECIST criteria.Conclusions: Due to the particularly challenging nodule characteristics, the sensitivity in diagnosing HCC foci in these nodules is about 77% when using conventional imaging criteria related to nodule morphology. Contrast media uptake curves may be altered by changes in nodule hemodynamics caused by embolization. The diagnostic rate may be significantly increased by considering the tumoral size increase in follow-up studies and completing the study with a hepatobiliary phase using Acidum Gadoxeticum.Abbreviations. ADC: Apparent diffusion coefficient; CT: Computed tomography; DEB-TACE: drug-eluting beads transarterial chemoembolization; DWI: Diffusion-weighted imaging; Gd-EOB-DTPA: acidum gadoxeticum; HCC: hepatocellular carcinoma; HBV: hepatitis virus B; HCV: hepatitis virus C; HDV: hepatitis virus D; IN-OPP: in-phase and out-of-phase; mRECIST: modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors; MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging; ROI: region of interest; TACE: Transarterial chemoembolization; WI: weighted imaging.
Adherence to an Acotiamide Therapeutic Regimen Improves Long-Term Outcomes in Patients with Functional Dyspepsia
Authors: Shinozaki Satoshi , Osawa Hiroyuki , Sakamoto Hirotsugu , Hayashi Yoshikazu , Miura Yoshimasa , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: November 2017

Background & Aims: Long-term outcomes in patients with functional dyspepsia remain elusive. Acotiamide, a prokinetic drug, has been available in Japan since 2013. The aim of this study was to assess long-term outcomes in patients with functional dyspepsia treated with acotiamide.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 79 consecutive patients with functional dyspepsia whose symptoms improved with acotiamide therapy and who were followed for more than one year. All patients underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy prior to acotiamide therapy. The mean follow-up was 1.9 (range, 1.0-3.3) years. We assessed the patients’ symptom severity using the Izumo scale, which reflects changes in various abdominal symptoms.Results: At one year, dyspepsia symptoms recurred in 25% (20/79) of the patients. In multivariate analysis, severe dyspepsia was significantly associated with increased recurrence (odds ratio [OR] 15.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.73-130.47, p=0.013). Continued use of acotiamide for one year diminished the recurrence of dyspepsia symptoms significantly (OR 0.16, 95%CI 0.04-0.61, p=0.006). The influence of these significant predictors on long-term outcomes was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Patients with severe dyspepsia before starting acotiamide had significantly more recurrences than those with mild symptoms (p=0.004, log-rank test). Patients who continued acotiamide therapy throughout the follow-up period had significantly fewer recurrences than those who stopped therapy (p<0.001).Conclusions: Over the long-term, patients with functional dyspepsia have a considerable rate of recurrence of dyspepsia. Severe dyspepsia before treatment increases the recurrence rates, while adherence to an acotiamide therapeutic regimen decreases recurrence rate.Abbreviations: QOL: quality of life; EPS: epigastric pain syndrome; PDS: postprandial distress syndrome; EGD: esophagogastroduodenoscopy; GERD: gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Managing Successful Pregnancies in Patients with Chronic Intestinal Failure on Home Parenteral Nutrition: Experience from a UK National Intestinal Failure Unit
Authors: Bond Ashley , Vasant Dipesh H. , Gashau Wadiamu , Abraham Arun , Teubner Antje , Farrer Kristine , Leahy Gavin , Lal Simon
Published: November 2017

Background & Aim: There are minimal reports of pregnancy in the chronic intestinal failure (CIF)/ home parenteral nutrition (HPN) population, with some concern relating to the risk associated with such pregnancies. The aim of this retrospective observational study was to evaluate pregnancy experience and outcomes in patients with CIF requiring HPN in a national UK CIF referral centre.Method: All known pregnancies in patients treated with HPN for CIF between 1982 and 2016 were identified retrospectively from a prospectively maintained database. Maternal and foetal outcomes were collated, along with PN requirements before and during pregnancy.Results: There were 5 pregnancies in 5 mothers in our cohort consisting of over 700 patients, males and females. The median age at conception was 28 years (range 24-33 years). The median duration on HPN prior to pregnancy was 26 months (range 4-85 months). One patient had Crohn’s disease, another had pan-enteric dysmotility and the other three patients had ischaemic complications leading to short bowel syndrome (SBS). All mothers were intensively monitored in an obstetric clinic and a dedicated CIF multi-disciplinary clinic throughout pregnancy. There were 2/5 preterm deliveries. One of the preterm deliveries was associated with spontaneous labour and the other had a planned induction as a result of maternal clinical need. Neonatal complications were seen in both prenates. There were no recorded maternal catheter related line infections during the 5 pregnancies.Conclusion: Successful pregnancy whilst receiving HPN is feasible but requires close, intensive monitoring and dedicated optimisation of PN in order to minimise maternal and foetal complications. All women of child-bearing age on HPN should be counselled about pregnancy.Abbreviations: ALP: alkaline phosphatase; ALT: alanine transaminase; CIF: chronic intestinal failure; HPN: home parenteral nutrition; IBD: inflammatory bowel disease; IF: intestinal failure; IFALD: Intestinal Failure associated liver disease; LFT: liver function test; PN: parenteral nutrition; RDA: Recommended daily allowance; SBS: short bowel syndrome; TPN: total parenteral nutrition.
The Influence of Prosthesis Design on the Outcomes of Tooth Implants Immediately Placed and Loaded by Means of One-Piece Titanium Machined Restoration
Authors: Toti Paolo , Marconcini Simone , Enrica Giammarinaro , Pedretti Giorgio , Barone Antonio , Covani Ugo
Published: November 2017

Our purpose was to evaluate the occurrence of complications and the degree of bone loss in a cohort of patients treated with fixed prostheses supported by immediately loaded dental implants. The primary aim was to compare partial versus full-arch fixed dental prostheses. We then tested the effect of sinus lifting. In the present retrospective cohort study, the patients had their implants restored with fixed dental prostheses supported by dental implants positioned in the posterior maxilla and mandible. When necessary, the maxillary sinuses were grafted with particulate autogenous bone. Patients were then ranked according to the following predictors: length of prosthesis, crown-to-implant ratio, number of crowns to number of implants ratio, and presence of sinus lifting. Outcomes were evaluated for up to 2 years regarding the peri-implant marginal bone loss and implant/prosthesis survival rates. Fifty-eight subjects (209 implants) were rehabilitated with 25 fixed full-arch prostheses and 33 partial fixed dental implant bridges (16 supported by implants placed in grafted sinus). The mean marginal bone loss for implants supporting partial fixed dental prostheses amounted to 0.81 mm, whereas that for implants within the group of full-arch fixed dental prostheses was 1.21 mm; the comparison of the levels in the 2 groups showed a significant difference (P = .0055). A statistically significant difference (P = .0006) was found between the bone loss around maxillary implants (1.53 mm) and the bone loss around mandibular implants (1.10 mm). Two implants and 4 prostheses failed; 2-year survival rates of partial and of full-arch fixed dental prostheses, respectively, were 94.1% and 96%. Bone loss in full-arch prostheses appeared to be higher than in that of partial prosthesis. Implant-supported prostheses in the maxillae exhibited a bone loss higher than that registered in mandibles.
Radium-223 Safety, Efficacy, and Concurrent Use with Abiraterone or Enzalutamide: First U.S. Experience from an Expanded Access Program
Authors: Sartor Oliver , Vogelzang Nicholas J. , Sweeney Christopher , Fernandez Daniel C. , Almeida Fabio , Iagaru Andrei , Brown Alan , Smith Matthew R. , Agrawal Manish , Dicker Adam P. , Garcia Jorge A. , Lutzky Jose , Wong Yu-Ning , Petrenciuc Oana , Gratt Jeremy , Shore Neal D. , Morris Michael J. ,   for the U.S. Expanded Access Program Investigators
Published: November 2017

Background

In the phase III ALSYMPCA trial, metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients had few prior life-prolonging therapies. Following ALSYMPCA, which demonstrated radium-223 survival benefit, and before radium-223 U.S. commercial availability, an expanded access program (EAP) providing early-access radium-223 allowed life-prolonging therapies in current use.

Subjects, Materials, and Methods

This phase II, open-label, single-arm, multicenter U.S. EAP (NCT01516762) enrolled patients with symptomatic mCRPC, ≥2 bone metastases, and no lung, liver, or brain metastases. Patients received radium-223 55 kBq/kg intravenously every 4 weeks × 6. Primary outcomes were acute and long-term safety. Additional analyses were done by number of radium-223 injections, and prior or concomitant abiraterone or enzalutamide use.

Results

Of 252 patients, 184 received radium-223: 165/184 (90%) had Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status 0–1; 183 (99%) had prior systemic anticancer therapy. Treatment-related adverse events occurred in 93/184 (51%) patients during treatment and 11 (6%) during follow-up. Median overall survival was 17 months, with 134/184 (73%) patients censored because of short follow-up due to radium-223 approval. In post hoc analyses, patients with ≥3 prior anticancer medications, baseline ECOG performance status ≥2, and lower baseline hemoglobin were less likely to receive 5–6 radium-223 injections and unlikely to benefit from radium-223. Radium-223 was well tolerated regardless of concurrent or prior abiraterone or enzalutamide.

Conclusion

Radium-223 was well tolerated, with no new safety concerns; safety was maintained with abiraterone or enzalutamide. Patients with more advanced disease were less likely to benefit from radium-223. Clinicians should consider baseline characteristics and therapy sequence for greatest clinical value.

Implications for Practice

In this phase II U.S. expanded access program, radium-223 was well tolerated, with a median overall survival of 17 months in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer patients. In post hoc analyses, radium-223 was safe regardless of concurrent abiraterone or enzalutamide, and median overall survival appeared longer when radium-223 was used earlier in patients with less prior treatment. Patients with more advanced disease were less likely to benefit from radium-223. Clinicians should consider baseline clinical characteristics and therapy sequence to provide the greatest clinical value to patients.
influence of collaboration in research priorities: The SADC Case
Authors: Pouris Anastassios
Published: November 2017

This study was aimed at providing evidence of the effects of collaboration among unequal partners on their research priorities. Co-authorship patterns were investigated among South African authors publishing with authors of other countries in the region, with and without other non-African co-authors. It was identified that the non-African collaborators have a high impact on the quantity of co-authored publications and on the research disciplines in which co-authored research is undertaken. The findings raise a number of policy questions.

Significance: 

The findings make profound that African countries should prioritise and engage their limited resources in areas of national priorities.
Human Parechovirus A real-time RT-PCR ["Nix assay"; 2008-2015] v1
Authors: M Mackay Ian
Published: November 2017

I and my team used this assaybetween 2008-2015; we dubbed it the "Nix assay". It targets the 5'UTR and employs quite degenerate oligos. In silico sequence alignments indicated the olignucleotides could theoretically detect aft least HPeV 1-7, 17 and 18. However during a period of assay comparison, another assay (see link below), the "Benschop assay" (J.Clin.Virol. 2008. 41(2):69-74), was found to producemore sigmoidal and higher curves and 1-5 cycle improvements to CT values when compared among the sample sampe extract set.
Human Parechovirus A real-time RT-PCR ["Nix assay"; 2017-] v4
Authors: M Mackay Ian
Published: November 2017

This version is based on a recipe (see forked version) my team and I used this assaybetween 2008-2015; we dubbed it the 'Nix assay'. It targets the 5'UTR and employs quite degenerate oligos. In silico sequence alignments indicated the olignucleotides could theoretically detect aft least HPeV 1-7, 17 and 18. Further validation of this recipe is ongoing. However during a period of assay comparison, another assay (see link below), the 'Benschop assay' (J.Clin.Virol. 2008. 41(2):69-74), was found to producemore sigmoidal and higher curves and 1-5 cycle improvements to CT values when compared among the sample sampe extract set.
THE ROLE OF MEDIA PROPAGANDA IN THE HYBRID WAR
Authors: Yuskiv B. , Khomych S.
Published: November 2017

The subject of this research is one of the most pressing problems of today’s Ukraine – military conflict with Russia, also known as “hybrid war”. Among the specific features of this war is the usage of non-military, especially propaganda means along with the military ones. The aim of the research was to analyze possible connections between the Russian backed separatist forces, as well as Russian special operation forces on Ukrainian East, and the Russian media propaganda. It was proved that separatists’ activities are more influenced by Russian propaganda, than by international activities aimed at peaceful resolving of the conflict. As a result, the reversed regression model was created, which can prove direct connection between the number of firefights and specific propaganda phrases used by Russian “Russia Today” propaganda channel. The model can be used to predict occurrence and the number of firefights by analyzing the propaganda content according to the key words.
CONCEPTUAL PROVISION OF US GLOBAL LEADERSHIP POLICY OF POST-BIPOLAR PERIOD
Authors: Litvinenko N. , Pogorila N.
Published: November 2017

Article deals with conceptual and theoretical grounds for US global leadership policy in the post-bipolar period. In this context, the strategy of US global leadership during the presidency of Bill Clinton is thoroughly researched. On the conceptual level the existing strategy of US global leadership under President George. W. Bush is being reviewed. The liberal realistic concept of US leadership under presidency of B. Obama found further development. The basic differences in foreign policies between Republican and Democratic US administration post-bipolar era were revealed. It is reported that the US would continue to play a crucial role in world politics and provide conceptual and applied political and security strategies of the United States, which affect foreign policy and constitute an integral part of US geopolitical interests.
El mecanismo espacial y funcional del “faux plafond”: Eileen Gray
Authors: Moreno Moreno María Pura
Published: November 2017

La sinergia de arquitectura y equipamiento ha transformado gracias a construcciones de pequeña escala el ámbito de lo doméstico. Este artículo pretende exponer el hallazgo del faux plafond por parte de Eileen Gray como mecanismo funcional y espacial en viviendas de reducidas dimensiones. Su introducción en proyectos como el Apartamento para Jean Badovici en la Rue de Chateaubriand de París (1931) y en la casa “Tempe à pailla” (1932-1934)- solucionó el problema de almacenaje pero también posibilitó unas estudiadas secciones y unos ingeniosos sistemas de acceso que buscaban aprovechar todo el volumen generado. En definitiva, mínimas construcciones cuya funcionalidad doméstica contribuyó a maximizar el espacio.
Al otro lado del espejo. Obra y ruina
Authors: Pancorbo Crespo Luis , Martin Robles Ines
Published: November 2017

Mediante el estudio de las fotos de obra de los edificios industriales de Albert Kahn y su semejanza con las ruinas clásicas y las ruinas industriales de Detroit, este artículo trata de analizar la relación entre dos fases que se dan durante el periodo de vida de un edificio. Obra y la ruina se estudian considerándolas dos partes pertenecientes a un único proceso. El análisis usa ejemplos como los dibujos de Joseph Gandy y Auguste Choisy, o las teorías sobre la ruina de Simmel o Robert Smithson para tratar de definir las convergencias y divergencias entre ambas fases y las características del proceso global en el que se encuadran. Partiendo de este análisis, se plantean posibles metodologías operativas en las ruinas industriales que se alejen tanto de la estricta conservación patrimonial como del actual estado de abandono en el que se encuentran, y equidistantes entre el monumento y el desecho. Se trata de buscar modos de operación en estos nuevos ambientes antropocénicos, ejemplarizados por las ciudades industriales de “Rust Belt” norteamericano, que sean capaces de establecer un nuevo equilibrio entre agentes humanos y no humanos y entre sistemas técnicos, culturales y biológicos.
Dois projetos, mínima intervenção máximo impacto transformador. Uma perspectiva brasileira
Authors: Marques Dias Luis Claudio , Hori Hawthorne Vivian
Published: November 2017

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Frank Lloyd Wright. Histoiografía en español (1955-2015). Fredy Ovando Grajales
Authors: Hernández Correa José Ramón
Published: November 2017

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El paisaje codificado en la arquitectura de Arne Jacobsen. Rodrigo Almonacid Canseco
Authors: Delgado Orusco Eduardo
Published: November 2017

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Screening for gestational diabetes: evaluation of prevalence in age-stratified subgroups at Central hospital Warri Nigeria
Authors: M. I. Orru , E. U. Nwose , E. U. Nwose , P. T. Bwititi , E. U. Nwose , E. O. Igumbor , P. T. Bwititi , P. T. Bwititi , E. O. Igumbor , E. O. Igumbor
Published: November 2017

Background: The prevalence of gestational diabetes depends on the method of diagnosis as well as ethnic background. Maternal age has also been identified as a factor, but has not been given much attention. The notion of gestational prediabetes has also speculated, but is equally yet to be a focus in discussion. Aim: This work aimed at evaluating the screening for gestational diabetes in Central Hospital, Warri; to determine prevalence of gestational diabetes in the general population and in stratified age groups. The other objective was to investigate the effectiveness and use of the methods of diagnosis. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective review of laboratory data of de-identified antenatal patients. Hospital records of gestational diabetes from 2013 to 2015 were obtained from the Central Hospital, Warri. Data collected included age of the de-identified patients, blood glucose results and whether the test was fasting or random. Other information was the month/year of test. A total of 3 589 results were analyzed. Results: Averaged prevalence of 5.85% is identified. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) measurement was used more and it also identified more positives (9%) compared to random blood sugar (<2%). On a dichotomous age group, prevalence of gestational diabetes appeared low in women below 25 years compared to those ≥26 years old. In a more stratification of age groups, potential antepartum prediabetes in pregnancy was lower in women above 40 years old relative to the younger age subpopulations (p < 0.000001). No significant variation was observed in level of usage of either method between months/years. Conclusion:  There is an ongoing good practice of using affordable screening test, which is FBS. The significant finding was that there may be up to 9% prevalence of GDM and that this number may erroneously be lower if random blood glucose measurement is used. Another worthy observation was that the prevalence in stratified age groups was non-directional, especially as prediabetes appears higher in the younger age subpopulation.
Struma Ovarii associated with Pseudo-Meigs Syndrome and elevated serum Ca 125: Case report and literature review
Authors: Morales Oyuki A. , Araiza Junior J. , Dominguez Tania P. Alvarez , Guzmán Rafael Medrano , Barbabosa Jorge A. , Sosa Maria I. Tolentino
Published: November 2017

Struma Ovarii is a highly specialized monodermal teratoma in which the major component is thyroid tissue. Its relationship with Pseudo Meigs syndrome, hyperthyroidism and elevation of Ca 125 is a rare condition; this could mimic malignancy. Ultrasound and axial tomography may be useful in diagnosis; but histopathological criteria play a very important role in the definitive diagnosis. Our objective is to present a case report of Struma ovarii, ascites, pleural effusion (pseudo meigs syndrome), elevation of Ca 125, hyperthyroidism, and review the published literature in relation to epidemiology and diagnostic characteristics.
Hospital based study of demography and clinical picture of vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Sethi Maneesha , Nanda Ridham , Bali Amarjeet Singh , Sadhotra P.
Published: November 2017

Background: Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is common cause of ocular morbidity in children living in tropical countries. Its diagnosis is based on signs and symptoms of the disease. The study was undertaken to stress upon the demography and clinical presentation of VKC.Methods: Retrospective pre-formed proforma of 155 patients of VKC, who were detected at random in the out - patient department of ophthalmology, ASCOMS, Jammu from May 2016 to April 2017, were analyzed.Results: Mean age at presentation was 10.31 years +4.05. The Male: Female ratio was 4.96:1. Majority of patients reported in the month of May. Mixed type of VKC was predominant. Personal or family history of allergy was seen in 5.8% of patients. Itching (100%) was commonest symptom and palpaberal papillae were commonest sign seen in 78.70% of patients.Conclusions: Clinical pattern of VKC seen in hot and dry climate of Northern India is like that seen in other parts of country.
Effect of hypothermia for perinatal asphyxia on childhood outcomes
Authors: Jose Santhosh , K. Mohamad Ismael
Published: November 2017

Background: Perinatal asphyxia, neonatal asphyxia or birth asphyxia is the medical condition resulting from deprivation of oxygen to a new born infant that lasts long enough during the birth process to cause physical harm, usually to the brain. This study was performed to evaluate study population who were 6 to 8 years of age to determine whether the application of moderate hypothermia after perinatal asphyxia is associated with long term benefits.Methods: This study was a randomised, controlled trials which consisted of infants who were admitted with moderate and severe encephalopathy within 6 hours after birth after an acute perinatal event, with acidosis or resuscitation. Infants were assigned to undergo whole body hypothermia at 33ºC for 72 hours or to undergo usual care randomly.Results: All maternal baseline characteristics and Neonatal characteristics are non significant in both groups. APGAR score ≤5 is significant at 10mins in comparison. cerebral palsy were 18% and 25%, respectively, the rates of blindness were 1% and 4% the rates of hearing impairment (requiring aids) were 5.4% and 12.8%. There were no significant between-group differences in the level of disability among all survivors or in motor function among the 45 nondisabled children. Among children who had moderate or severe disability at 18 months, the corresponding rates at 6 to 7 years of age were 88% in the hypothermia group and 95% in the control group. All the children who had moderate-to-severe cerebral palsy at 18 months continued to be affected at 6 to 7 years in both groups. There was no significant between-group difference with respect to IQ scores that were measured on a continuous scale and other scores, with the exception of 1 of the 11 scores compared (attention and executive function, P=0.03). There were also no significant differences between groups in mean scores on the index of health care status derived from parental assessments or in parental scores for children’s strengths and difficulties and ADHD The mean difference in the academic achievement score favored the hypothermia group but was not significant.Conclusions: Moderate hypothermia after perinatal asphyxia resulted in improved neurocognitive outcomes in middle childhood.
Адаптация экономических систем к стрессовым нагрузкам посредством управления интеллектуальным капиталом
Authors: Теванян Анна Михайловна
Published: November 2017

Активное развитие инновационной деятельности и обострение конкуренции в бизнес среде указывает на важность исследования вопроса адаптации экономических систем к стрессовым нагрузкам посредством управления интеллектуальным капиталом. Становится актуальным рассмотрение не только явления адаптации экономических систем, но и понимания ее механизмов, свойств и целей. Ввиду того, что в области экономических наук этот вопрос остается малоизученным, автором предложен подход к пониманию адаптации через ее сравнение с системами «живых организмов», а также внесены уточнения в определения таких понятий как: адаптация, адаптивность и адаптационный механизм.
Вместе с тем в статье рассматривается адаптивный механизм структурных компонентов интеллектуального капитала: мотивированного использования информационного капитала и капитала менеджмента, как средства адаптации к современным условиям рыночной среды. В результате анализа использования этого ресурса выявлен ряд проблем в управлении и пользовании данной категорией, предложен ряд рекомендация для их решения.
Проектное дело – от лозунгов к внедрению
Authors: Яськова Наталья Юрьевна , Фомина Людмила Леонидовна
Published: November 2017

В статье показано, что развитие требует полноценной реализации проектного подхода применительно ко всем уровням и сферам национальной экономики. Провалы рыночных реформ и инерция развития лежат в сфере отставания основ проектного дела. Прямое заимствование зарубежного, возможно даже лучшего опыта, во всех случаях без проектной проработки оборачивается неудачами. Проведенный анализ позволяет наметить основные шаги по восстановлению и развитию теоретических основ и практических рекомендаций, методов и приемов проектного дела. Его неотложная реанимация в той же мере, что и восстановление сектора науки со всеми необходимыми звеньями является первоочередной задачей трансформационного периода Российской Федерации.
Оценка потенциала интеграции российской промышленности в мировую технологическую среду
Authors: Климашевская Анастасия Александровна
Published: November 2017

В статье проведен терминологический анализ понятия «модернизация» и сделан вывод, что ключевыми его аспектами являются институциональный и инновационный. Сделан вывод о необходимости технологической модернизации для включения российских промышленных предприятий в глобальные производственные системы.
Обосновано, что основными признаками существующей возможности включения отрасли в мировую технологическую среду являются технологическая инновационность и уровень развития информационно-коммуникационных технологий, вовлеченность во внешнюю торговлю, объем инвестиций в отрасль, экологичность бизнеса, степень концентрации бизнеса. Предложена методика оценки потенциала технологической интеграции, применение которой для отраслей российской промышленности позволило ранжировать субъекты экономики по степени необходимости проведения модернизации.