bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INTESTINAL MECHANISMS OF ENTEROHEPATIC CIRCULATION DISTURBANCE OF BILE ACIDS IN CHOLELITHIASIS
Authors: Vakhrushev Ya. M. , Lukashevich A. P. , Gorbunov A. Yu. , Penkina I. A.
Published: May 2017

Background: Cholelithiasis is one of the most common diseases of the digestive system which affects all segments of the population and preserves a stable growth of incidence rates. In recent years the development of cholelithiasis is associated with impaired enterohepatic circulation (EHC) of bile acids (BA). The small intestine (SI) plays an important part in EHC of BA because 80‒90% of BA are absorbed into the blood after deconjugation by bacteria in the SI. However, in spite of a number of works dealing with the problem of EHC of BA at the intestinal level, the problem is far from being solved. Aims: To assess the association between the level of bile acids in the blood and bile of patients with cholelithiasis and disturbance of resorbing function of the small intestine as well as changes in the condition of the intestinal microbiota. Materials and methods: Non-randomized controlled trial. The study group included patients aged 18‒74 with lithogenic stage of cholelithiasis. The diagnosis was based on clinical data and the results of ultrasound examination of the gallbladder. Bile acids in the blood and bile were determined by mass spectrometry using the apparatus AmazonX (Bruker Daltonik GmbH, Bremen, Germany). Biochemical examination of bile was conducted. Absorption in the small intestine was studied by functional glucose tolerance test. Condition of the intestinal microbiota was assessed by the hydrogen breath test with lactulose using the apparatus LaktofaH2 (AMA, St. Petersburg). Stool culture was performed in selective media. Results: 115 patients aged 18 to 74 with prestone stage of cholelithiasis and 25 healthy people, comparable in age and sex, were examined. In patients with prestone stage of cholelithiasis biochemical examination of bile revealed increased cholesterol and decreased bile acids and bile acids-cholesterol ratio in B and C bile. The level of bile acids in the blood was reduced in comparison with the control group; it was associated in particular with a significant reduction in chenodeoxycholic, deoxycholic and glycodeoxycholic acids. Resorption in the small intestine was increased in patients with cholelithiasis compared with the control group (blood glucose increase within 30 minutes after the glucose load was 3.13±0.17 and 2.32±0.11 mmol/l respectively; p0.05). In the majority of patients small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), mainly (75% of patients) associated with ileocecal insufficiency, and dysbiosis in the large intestine were established (88 and 100% of patients respectively). Conclusions: The small intestine is an important component in disturbance of enterohepatic circulation of bile acids. Significant changes in deconjugation of bile acids occur due to SIBO in the distal ileum and dysbiosis in the large intestine, thus disturbings the proportion of fractions of bile acids in the blood and bile.
Bioremediation Potential of Native Hydrocarbons Degrading Bacteria in Crude Oil Polluted Soil
Authors: MARINESCU Mariana , LACATUSU Anca , GAMENT Eugenia , PLOPEANU Georgiana , CARABULEA Vera
Published: May 2017

Bioremediation of crude oil contaminated soil is an effective process to clean petroleum pollutants from the environment. Crude oil bioremediation of soils is limited by the bacteria activity in degrading the spills hydrocarbons. Native crude oil degrading bacteria were isolated from different crude oil polluted soils. The isolated bacteria belong to the genera Pseudomonas, Mycobacterium, Arthrobacter and Bacillus. A natural biodegradable product and bacterial inoculum were used for total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) removal from an artificial polluted soil. For soil polluted with 5% crude oil, the bacterial top, including those placed in the soil by inoculation was 30 days after impact, respectively 7 days after inoculum application, while in soil polluted with 10% crude oil,  multiplication top of bacteria was observed in the determination made at 45 days after impact and 21 days after inoculum application, showing once again how necessary is for microorganisms habituation and adaptation to environment being a function of pollutant concentration. The microorganisms inoculated showed a slight adaptability in soil polluted with 5% crude oil, but complete inhibition in the first 30 days of experiment at 10% crude oil.
Metabolic, Bioproductive and Reproductive Effects of Aquatic Exposure to Cadmium in Dish- A Review
Authors: GEORGESCU Bogdan , MIERLITA Daniel , STRUTI Danut , KISS Hermina , BOUARU Anca
Published: May 2017

Cadmium (Cd) exposure in fish is the result of aquatic pollution with heavy metals, which is mainly caused byanthropic interventions. Rarely, Cd mobilization from natural resources takes place. Bioaccumulation in tissues and organs is a property of this heavy metal, to generate various pathological effects and major risks due to bio-propagation within the human food chain. Wehereby reviewed the main circumstances and levels of exposure to Cd in the aquatic environment, and effects on growth, development and reproduction induced by its bioaccumulation in fish, as well as the possible ramifications for food security in humans.
Mobile Application Development for Optimal and Rapid Diagnosis of Vine Diseases
Authors: TOMOIAGĂ Liliana Lucia , TOMOIAGĂ Cristian , TODORAN Claudia
Published: May 2017

In a perennial culture such as the vine, late and inaccurate identification of the damage created by diseases and pests can cause significant crop loss or even the loss of the entire production. To support the growers in Romania, in 2010, we printed and also posted online on www.scvblaj.ro a guide on how to diagnose vine diseases and pests that describes in detail the most important pathogens together with pictures and various solutions in order to help the growers to bring the plants back to a healthy state whenever possible. Given the high number of growers in our country, especially small family growers, the guide is addressed to anyone, regardless of their past experience.Between 2010 and 2014, thousands of growers have accessed the online version of the guide and contacted us to request additional help. We gathered a lot of valuable information during that time but most notably the fact that many growers were contacting us too late, when a disease had already spread beyond any hope of recovery or worse after a wrong treatment was applied because of an inaccurate diagnosis.In recent years we noticed an increasing number of wrong diagnostics of vine diseases and a tendency for pathogens to be more aggressive. Thus finding a new solution, easily accessible to growers that would offer a faster, easier and up to date diagnosis, was necessary.Recent developments in the field of machine learning (Ghahramani, 2015), breakthroughs in computer vision (Krizhevsky et al., 2012) and the availability of cheap computational hardware has led us to look for a way to automatically detect and classify a disease just by having a computer or a mobile phone process a picture of an affected plant. Given the widespread availability of mobile devices, we believe we can help the vine growers further.
Irrigation Investments in Romania. Size, Results, Efficiency (1965-1989)
Authors: LUP Aurel , MIRON Liliana , ALIM Indira
Published: May 2017

In Romania was equipped for irrigation over than 3 million hectare, one of the greatest surfaces in Europe. The aim - drought control and intensification of agriculture by increasing the yield per hectare. The financial effort was very important - over 10 million USD borrowed from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and World Bank. To accelerate the construction of the irrigation systems and to save financial resources the constructors renounced to ones of the main parts of the system: drainage systems, measuring equipment, waterproofing transport canals and for application were provided cheap and hand shifted equipment.Operation of the irrigation systems was defective to: there was not sufficient electric power for pumping water, fertilizers and pesticides and other production factors so that the yields per hectare were 50-70% under projected level. Economically all national irrigation system produced loses instead profits. At present about 1.5 million hectare are within rehabilitation course especially in the Danube Plane, which can be operated in profitability terms.
reBody Weight Evolution of Tsurcana Pure Breed Lambs and Tsurcana Crossed with Blanc Du Massif Central Lambs (F1)
Authors: PASCA Ioan , PUSTA Dana , BOGDAN Liviu , ZAGON Diana , GIURGIUMAN Anca , TABARAN Alexandra , BORZAN Mihai Marian
Published: May 2017

The Blanc du Massif Central breed is a rustically French meat breed of sheep that was used in crossing with Tsurcana breed in order to improve the quality of local lambs for the European market. After crossing, the resulting lambs were compared with purebred Tsurcana lambs to evaluate daily weight gain from birth to 3 months. The daily weight gain was superior in the crossed lambs compared with purebred lambs.
Epidemiological Aspects and Differential Diagnosis of the Cutaneous Round Cell Tumors in Dogs
Authors: CORA Roxana , GAL Adrian Florin , TAULESCU Marian , TABARAN Flaviu , NAGY Andras , NEGRU Mihai , CATOI Cornel
Published: May 2017

Round cell neoplasms (RCNs) are frequent cutaneous lesions in dogs, with high percentages among skin tumors. In this category are included histiocytoma, mast cell tumor, plasmacytoma, lymphoma and transmissible venereal tumor. The aim of the study was to perform an epidemiological study with reference to the cutaneous round cell tumors in a period of 10 years in the Department of Pathology (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca, Romania). Additionally, in the recorded cases with round cell tumors (mast cell tumor, histiocytoma and lymphoma) we described the main histological and cytological features. The epidemiological data were collected from the records of Pathology Department between 2005-2014. The investigation included dogs diagnosed with cutaneous round cell neoplasms, following necropsy analysis or assessment of biopsies or cytological samples. All collected specimens were analyzed by histopathological and/or cytological techniques. The staining used for histological investigation were Hematoxylin-eosin, Massonâ€™s trichrome and Toluidine blue, whereas Diff Quik and Wright methods were utilized in cytological specimens. The distribution of the cutaneous round cell tumors in relation to age, breed and sex was also assessed. The most frequent round cell tumor type was the mast cell tumor (19.54%) followed by histiocytoma (11.33%) and lymphoma (1.98%). The round cell tumors recorded were equally distributed in both males and females. Concerning the distribution of cutaneous RCNs by age (average age), histiocytoma occurred in 5 years old subjects, mast cell tumor in 11.9 years old subjects, and lymphoma in 6 years old subjects. Mast cell tumor was more frequent in stray dogs and Boxer breed, while histiocytoma occurred more commonly in stray dogs. Histological and cytological analysis was mandatory to perform the differential diagnosis between RCNs. Microscopic details concerning cytoplasm and nucleus of tumoral cells, together with the displaying mode in histological specimens may reveal the type of RCN. Cutaneous round cell tumors had an increased incidence, aspect observed in other reports too. The differential diagnosis has to rely on some specific microscopical features that can suggest the type of RCN.
Pulmonary Function Changes After Radiotherapy for Lung or Esophageal Cancer: A Systematic Review Focusing on Dose-Volume Parameters
Authors: Niezink Anne G.H. , de Jong Renske A. , Muijs Christina T. , Langendijk Johannes A. , Widder Joachim
Published: May 2017

Background

Despite technical developments in treatment delivery, radiation-induced lung toxicity (RILT) remains a crucial problem in thoracic radiotherapy. Clinically based RILT scores have their limitations, and more objective measures such as pulmonary functions tests (PFTs) might help to improve treatment strategies.

Purpose

To summarize the available evidence about the effect of dose to the lung in thoracic radiotherapy on forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and diffusion capacity (DLCO) in patients with lung and esophageal cancer treated with curative intent.

Material and methods

A systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines was performed, using MEDLINE and including clinical studies using (chemo)radiotherapy (CRT) or stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) for lung or CRT for esophageal cancer that reported both lung dose-volume histogram (DVH) parameters and changes in PFT results. Search terms included lung and esophageal neoplasms, respiratory function tests, and radiotherapy.

Results

Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Seven out of 13 studies on lung cancer reported significant declines (defined as a p value < .05) in PFT results. Both esophageal studies reported significant DLCO declines. One SABR study found a correlation between low lung-dose parameters and FEV1 decline. Relations between decline of FEV1 (three studies) or decline of DLCO (five studies), respectively, and DVH parameters were found in eight studies analyzing CRT. Furthermore, a heterogeneous range of clinical risk factors for pulmonary function changes were reported in the selected studies.

Conclusions

There is evidence that pulmonary function declines after RT in a dose-dependent manner, but solid data about lung DVH parameters predicting changes in PFT results are scarce. A major disadvantage was the wide variety of methods used, frequently lacking multivariable analyses. Studies using prospective high-quality data, analyzed with appropriate statistical methods, are needed. The Oncologist 2017;22:1257–1264
Exceptional Response to Nivolumab and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) in Neuroendocrine Cervical Carcinoma with High Tumor Mutational Burden: Management Considerations from the Center For Personalized Cancer Therapy at UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center
Authors: Sharabi Andrew , Kim Sangwoo Shawn , Kato Shumei , Sanders Philip D. , Patel Sandip Pravin , Sanghvi Parag , Weihe Elizabeth , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: May 2017

Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix is an ultra-rare malignancy with a poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Checkpoint blockade immunotherapy has rapidly developed into an emerging standard of care for several common disease types. Interestingly, in preclinical and retrospective clinical data, radiation therapy has been demonstrated to synergize with checkpoint inhibitors. Here we report a patient with metastatic, chemotherapy-refractory neuroendocrine carcinoma who presented with partial bowel obstruction due to a large tumor burden. Genomic analysis demonstrated a high number of alterations on liquid biopsy (circulating tumor DNA [ctDNA]), which prompted treatment with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) combined with anti-programmed cell death protein 1 antibody. Tissue rebiopsy and comprehensive genomic profiling confirmed high tumor mutational burden and a mismatch repair gene defect. The patient manifested near-complete systemic resolution of disease, ongoing at 10+ months. We discuss the novel treatment modality of SBRT combined with a checkpoint inhibitor and the implications of molecular profiling and tumor mutational burden as potential predictors of response.
Debunking the Delusion That Precision Oncology Is an Illusion
Authors: Subbiah Vivek , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: May 2017

Many of the major advances in oncology over the past 2 decades are attributable to precision medicine, defined as biomarker-driven treatment. Whether the results of precision medicine are real or an illusion is discussed here.
Curative, Life-Extending, and Palliative Chemotherapy: New Outcomes Need New Names
Authors: Neugut Alfred I. , Prigerson Holly G.
Published: May 2017

Imprecise terminology obscures the reasons why a cancer patient might be willing to endure the potential toxicities and side-effects of treatment. Renaming of the categories of chemotherapy is proposed here to clarify intended definitions.
SUPPORTING FAMILIES IN CORRECTING DYSLALIA IN CHILDREN
Authors: Siedlaczek-Szwed Aleksandra , Jałowiecka-Frania Agata
Published: May 2017

The text deals with issues related to the effective support of speech and language therapy for children with dyslalia. The effectiveness of speech and language stimulation is determined by a wide range of determinants. Individual predispositions, influences of educational environments, personality, professionalism, the scope of speech and language therapists’ knowledge and abilities as well as a variety of methods used by them play an essential role. Dyslalia, which is one of the most frequent speech disorders, has a negative and significant impact on children’s psychosocial functioning. Children’s attitudes toward peers with speech articulation disorders not only seem to affect intellectual, cognitive and motivational processes, including perception, attention, memory, thinking, but also transform social behaviours. Therefore, the profound significance of the family’s influence on the effectiveness of speech and language therapy for children with dyslalia has been emphasised. It is assumed that educational activities require planned, intentional and regular collaboration with various environments in order to achieve desired goals and shape comprehensive individual development.
SENSE OF SELF-EFFICACY AND STYLES OF COPING STRESS OF YOUNG SPECIAL NEEDS TEACHERS
Authors: Czyż Anna Katarzyna
Published: May 2017

The author presented the results of research on the sense of self- efficacy and styles of coping with stress young special needs teachers, who take cooperation with people with disabilities, and who are obliged to cope with adversity and to help in the fight against distress their dependents. Research conducted in quantitative strategies, using the normalized and standardized tests: GSES - Generalized Self - Efficacy Scale by Schwarcer and Jerusalem in Polish adaptation by Schwarcer, Jerusalem and Juczyński, and CISS - Coping Inventory for Stressful Situation by Endler and Parker, in Polish adaptation by Strelau, Jaworowski, Wrześniewski and Szczepaniak from 2009.
IDENTITY AS AN OBJECT OF STUDY SOCIAL SCIENCES: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL APPROACH
Authors: Коriakovtseva Olga , Bugachuk Tatyana , Dosse Tatyana
Published: May 2017

The transformation of Russian society provoked a new round of interest in the social sciences, including the growth of defined research on the formation of social identity, an important place in the structure which occupies a civic identity. The scientific article is devoted to research of problems of identity in terms of "existential crisis". The authors define the specifics of social and civic identity based on a phenomenological approach.
CONSERVATION CHILD’S ATTACHMENT TO BOTH PARENTS IN THE DIVORCE: ON THE PROBLEM RESEARCH
Authors: Sklyarova Tatyana , Kupriianova Elena
Published: May 2017

his paper discusses the development of a child whose parents are divorced. In deciding with whom the child should stay, the court is based on his interests, it is very often decisive is the child's own opinion about who he wants to live. An important problem in this situation is the active influence of one parent (most of whom currently live child) on the decision-making process a child. To achieve the desired result the parent often resorted to negative methods of influence on your child, creating a negative image of the second parent. To minimize the negative effects of divorce of parents for the child's development the positive attitude of the child to both parents after a divorce is needed. However, judicial practice shows that maintaining a positive attitude of the child to both parents after a divorce, are often deliberately destroyed by adults for their own benefit. The objects of the analysis were 30 court cases from attorney's Kupriyanova court practice.The subject of analysis is the position of the parent with whom the child resides at the time of the court with respect to the second parent. For the processing of the experimental data used statistical package SPSS. It was obtained that the probability of the formation of the parent with whom the child remains after the court decision, the child's negative attitude towards the other parent more than 1/3.
MANAGEMENT OF AND POTENTIAL RETURN ON PRIVATE INVESTMENTS IN LATVIAN SPORTS
Authors: Lauva Mārtiņš , Grāvītis Uldis
Published: May 2017

Latvian sports authorities under the Ministry of Education and Science are the main organisers of the sports life in Latvia. However, they have not been successful in providing equally good support to all athletes who need it. It is especially difficult to receive support for improving skills of individual athletes engaged in team sports. Often it is the individual mastery of an athlete that prohibits them from moving on to the adult level of sports of high achievement, even if the athlete was very talented and one of the best in the country, when he/she was young. The descriptive statistical method and content analysis were used to assess shortcomings in the allocation of finances in the Latvian sports industry. The study demonstrated that a successful process of private investments ensures a positive return on the investments, as well as the development of athletes. One way to build successful cooperation is by creating high-quality sports development centres or sports investment management companies, which will efficiently contribute to the athletes’ transition from youth to professional sports. The efficiency of the methodology developed can be demonstrated by creating a company, which would act as an example for attracting private investments in the development of athletes.
THE UTILISATION OF INDUSTRIAL PROCESS MODELS IN ACQUIRING THE PRACTICAL SKILLS OF PLC PROGRAMMING
Authors: Jakubiec Beata
Published: May 2017

In the paper the use of process models and computer simulation as the tools which facilitates students to learn the conditions of the industrial processes control has been presented. Such approach enables to familiarise with operation and programming of controllers of industrial process. Moreover, it also enables safe testing of control algorithms provided by logic controllers through their implementation at the real industrial facility.
Vassili Grossman e o “Inferno de Treblinka”
Authors: Bignotto Newton
Published: May 2017

Este artigo analisa O inferno de Treblinka, de Vassili Grossman. O livro, escrito a partir das entrevistas que o autor realizou com alguns prisioneiros, que haviam conseguido fugir e se esconder depois da revolta do campo em agosto de 1943, e com camponeses e moradores dos arredores do campo. Não se trata de tentar reproduzir os sentimentos dos que sofreram e nem de tentar resumir os fatos que fizeram do campo um dos acontecimentos mais terríveis de nosso tempo. O lugar do escritor não é nem o do testemunho, direto ou indireto, e nem o do estudioso, que procura por meio de fatos e números abordar a questão do Holocausto. Trata-se de forjar um olhar que transmita a experiência vivida nas fronteiras do horror e que a traga para o centro da condição humana.
Uma língua sem fronteiras: os 70 anos da recuperação do arquivo secreto Oyneg Shabes, a memória poética do Ghetto de Varsóvia e o campo transnacional da literatura ídiche
Authors: Monteiro Bruno
Published: May 2017

Este artigo visa apresentar uma breve antologia de poemas em iídiche conservados no arquivo secreto “Oyneg Shabes”. Há praticamente 70 anos, a 18 de setembro de 1946, recuperaram-se os primeiros testemunhos que tinham sido enterrados sob o ghetto de Varsóvia por essa organização cultural liderada por Emanuel Ringelblum. A seleção de poemas vem introduzida por um texto que, em primeiro lugar, explica a atuação da organização nas circunstâncias violentas da ocupação nacional-socialista e, em segundo lugar, procura compreender a criação literária ídiche a partir da noção de “campo literário transnacional”. Sucinto como é, pretende-se que este artigo possa, não obstante, servir para incitar à prossecução dos trabalhos de pesquisa sobre este tópico.
Receita de felicidade
Authors: Zokner José
Published: May 2017

Receita de felicidade
Encontrando um intracódigo entre hebraico e português: Haroldo de Campos e a transcriação de Qohélet
Authors: Leal Izabela Guimarães Guerra , Carneiro Márcio Danilo de Carvalho
Published: May 2017

Pretendemos refletir acerca de um intracódigo entre hebraico e português, presente na transcriação de Eclesiastes, empreendida pelo poeta Haroldo de Campos em Qohélet/O-Que-Sabe Eclesiastes: poema sapiencial (1991). A relevância dessa obra seminal para a tradução bíblica no país está na deliberação em respeitar a respiração prosódica e a disposição tipográfica da composição, originalmente escrita em Hebraico. Trata-se de uma prática de tradução criativa, que se executa como processo de antropofagia e recriação, contribuindo assim para a constituição de uma literatura nacional, brasileira, sendo um ato de devoração crítica do outro e assimilação do estrangeiro. A tradução de Haroldo de Campos será por fim posta frente à edição da Bíblia mais difundida no país, de João Ferreira de Almeida.
Bayesian Optimal Sensor Placement for Modal Identification of Civil Infrastructures
Authors: Argyris Costas , Papadimitriou Costas , Panetsos Panagiotis
Published: May 2017

A Bayesian optimal experimental design (OED) method is proposed in this work for estimating the best locations of sensors in structures so that the measured data are most informative for estimating reliably the structural modes. The information contained in the data is measured by the Kullback-Leibler (K-L) divergence between the prior and posterior distribution of the model parameters taken in modal identification to be the modal coordinates. The optimal sensor placement that maximizes the expected K-L divergence is shown also to minimize the information entropy of the posterior distribution. Unidentifiability issues observed in existing formulations when the number of sensors is less than the number of identified modes, are resolved using a non-uniform prior in the Bayesian OED. An insightful analysis is presented that demonstrates the effect of the variances of Bayesian priors on the optimal design. For dense mesh finite element models, sensor clustering phenomena are avoided by integrating in the methodology spatially correlated prediction error models. A heuristic forward sequential sensor placement algorithm and a stochastic optimization algorithm are used to solve the optimization problem in the continuous physical domain of variation of the sensor locations. The theoretical developments and algorithms are applied for the optimal sensor placement design along the deck of a 537 m concrete bridge.
Policy-aware assessment of environmental impacts from transport in smart cities
Authors: Kaparias Ioannis , Manassa Edouard , Eden Niv , Tsakarestos Antonios , Schmitz Pierre , Hoadley Suzanne , Hauptmann Susanna
Published: May 2017

In recent research a performance evaluation framework for traffic management and Intelligent Transport Systems was developed, consisting of a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the themes of traffic efficiency, safety, pollution reduction and social inclusion, all of which are key components of a smart city. One of the innovative elements of these KPIs is their ability to consider the transport policy layer, in the sense that the evaluation of the suitability and effectiveness of different strategies and ITS options is calculated in relation to the decision-maker’s high-level transport policy rather than objectively. This is achieved through weighting factors, whereby more important policy objectives are weighted more heavily in the calculation. But while the theoretical framework is ready to accommodate the policy layer, no methodology to determine the values of the weighting factors has been developed so far. The present study, therefore, concentrates on the development and testing of such a methodology, focusing on the environmental impact aspect of urban mobility management and ITS in the context of smart cities. The development is based on existing policy objectives and legislation in different cities and countries, while testing is carried out using the purpose-developed CONDUITS_DST software with data from microsimulation models before and after the implementation of a bus priority signalling system in Brussels, Belgium. The results show that the method captures the expected effects, but also that it is able to reflect policy objectives and deliver evaluation results in relation to their alignment with those
Framing a Satellite Based Asset Tracking (SPARTACUS) within Smart City Technology
Authors: Casciati Fabio , Casciati Sara , Fuggini Clemente , Faravelli Lucia , Tesfai Ivan , Vece Michele
Published: May 2017

“Smart city” is a term currently used to denote cities moved by the opportunity to enhance the quality of life and the security of their citizens. Attention is here focused on the concept that the development of smart cities can also be achieved by improving the efficiency of civil infrastructures through a real-time monitoring. This is the specific target of the European Union FP7 project (SPARTACUS), moved from the parallel chance to develop industry pull applications for the European EGNOS and GALILEO satellite systems. In this paper, laboratory tests are carried out to provide specific devices the ability to run while satisfying the requirements of the incoming GALILEO system. Moreover, some of the targets are achieved within the current GPS system. An extensive experimental campaign is offered to validate the units in such a scenario.
Occupation and sports participation as risk factors for the development and progression of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Yousuf Amjad Waheed , Yousuf Awhad Mueed , Erum Aasiy Ul
Published: May 2017

Knee Osteoarthritis (OA) is a major cause of pain and disability worldwide. In majority of cases of knee OA the etiology remains unidentified, however, a number of systemic and local biomechanical factors have been associated with the increased risk of this disorder. These factors may determine the onset of knee OA and rapidity with which the disorder progresses. Occupation and sports participation are among the commonly implicated risk factors and have been studied in detail for their relationship with knee OA. An increased risk of knee OA has been observed in people who are involved in jobs requiring bending and kneeling of the knee joint. Likewise, persons who participate in sports involving excessive strain of the knee joint also carry a higher risk of development of this disorder in the later part of their life. In this review we present the data, obtained from original resources, determining the relationship between occupation and sports participation with the onset and progression of knee OA.
Study of clinical outcome in intra articular distal humerus fractures treated with dual plating
Authors: Shaik Riyaz B. , P. Venugopala Reddy , K. Ashok Naidu
Published: May 2017

Background: In adults, distal humerus fractures are uncommon and intra-articular, oftenly involve both the medial and lateral columns. Open reduction and surgical fixation with plating gives good results. The aim of this study is to evaluate clinical outcome in intra articular distal humerus fractures treated with dual plating.Methods: This is a prospective type of study of 20 cases of supra condylar fracture humerus with inter condylar extension treated surgically with dual plating one on the medial boarder and another on posterior surface of lateral column using standard dorsal approach, olecranon osteotomy.Results: The range of age was between 18-52 years, with mean age of 32.55 years. The maximum incidence was between 18 to 40 years i.e. 16 cases (80%). With road traffic accident (RTA) as major cause of injury. Most   of the patients were males 14 (70%) with right upper limb was involved in 12 (60%) cases. According   to MEP score clinical outcome was excellent in 4(20%) good in 10(50%) fair in 5(25%) and poor in one (10%).Conclusions: Distal humerus fractures are known for their complex nature and technical difficult in surgical management. Proper anatomical articular reconstruction and stable fixation helps in restoring painless and functional elbow.
Implementation of self-care symptom management program to enhance the quality of life of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and their family caregivers
Authors: Haryani Haryani , Rachmat Kuniarti , Suseno Probo , Effendy Christantie
Published: May 2017

Background: Chemotherapy affects the condition of cancer patients, physically, psychologically, socially and spiritually. The Self-care Symptom Management (SSM) program is a psychoeducation program with the goal of enhancing patients' self-care abilities to manage the side effects of chemotherapy, and thus improve the Quality of Life (QOL) of adult cancer patients and their family caregivers. The objective of the study is to determine the effects of the SSM program on the QOL of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and their family caregivers.Methods: The study adopts a quasi-experimental design, with one group and pre- and post-intervention tests. The study was conducted in a public hospital in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, with 40 cancer patients and 30 of their family caregivers. The QOL of patients is measured using the EORTC QLQ-C30, and for their family caregivers the CQOLC is used. Data analysis are carried out using a paired t-test and Wilcoxon test, with a 95% level of significance.Results: The data show significant differences between the mean scores on a single item of sleep disturbance (15.84 points) and a single item of financial difficulties (8.34 points) before and after the implementation of the SSM program. Clinical relevance is shown on a single item of sleep disturbance (≥10 points).Conclusions:The Self-care Symptom Management program represents a promising intervention to promote self-care management for cancer care in Indonesia.
Clinical significance of accessory foramina in adult human mandible
Authors: Goyal Nisha , Sharma Maneesha , Miglani Rasalika , Garg Anil , Gupta P. K.
Published: May 2017

Background: The mandible is the strongest and largest bone of facial skeleton. It consists of one horseshoe-shaped body and a pair of rami. On external surface of body in the midline there is a faint ridge i.e. symphysis menti indicating the line of fusion of two halves of mandible during development. The aim of this study is to describe the position and incidence of accessory foramina on the inner surface of the body and rami of both sides of mandible to provide simple important reliable surgical landmarks.Methods: The present study was conducted on 100 dried adult human mandibles. Bones which had deformities, asymmetries, external pathological changes and fractures were excluded from the present study.Results: In 97% cases at least one accessory foramen was observed on inner surface of mandible. The accessory lingual foramen was found to be constant finding with incidence of 81%. Frequency of infraspinous or sublingual foramen was 58%, of lateral foramen was 50% and that of accessory mandibular foramen was 39%.Conclusions: The anatomical knowledge about the common location and incidence of accessory foramina in mandible are important for surgeons and anaesthetists performing surgeries in the area around mandible. These accessory foramina transmit neurovascular bundles which provide accessory innervations to the roots of teeth.  Thus proper knowledge of accessory foramina are important in relation to achieving complete inferior alveolar nerve block and for avoiding injury to neurovascular bundle passing through them.
Synthesis of a bone like composite material derived from waste pearl oyster shells for potential bone tissue bioengineering applications
Authors: Brundavanam Ravi Krishna , Fawcett Derek , Poinern Gérrard Eddy Jai
Published: May 2017

Background: Hydroxyapatite is generally considered a viable substitute for bone in a number of medical procedures such as bone repair, bone augmentation and coating metal implants. Unfortunately, hydroxyapatite has poor mechanical properties that make it unsuitable for many load bearing applications.Methods: In the present work various grades of finely crushed Pinctada maxima (pearl oyster shell) were combined with a nanometer scale hydroxyapatite powder to form novel composite materials. A comparative study was made between the various powder based composites synthesized. The crystalline structure and morphology of the various powder based composites were investigated using X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The composite materials were also evaluated and characterized.Results: Manufactured hydroxyapatite powders were composed of crystalline spherical/granular particles with a mean size of 30 nm. Also produced were hydroxyapatite and finely crushed calcium carbonate from Pinctada maxima (pearl oyster shell) powder mixtures. Hydroxyapatite coatings produced on Pinctada maxima nacre substrates were investigated and their surface characteristics reported.Conclusions: Pinctada maxima nacre pre-treated with sodium hypo chlorate before hydroxyapatite deposition produced a superior coating and could be used for bone tissue engineering. But further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to validate the biocompatibility and long term stability of this composite coating.
Prevalence of Salmonella species from poultry eggs of local stores in Duhok
Authors: Zubair Anas I. , Al-Berfkani Mohammad Ismail , Issa Araz Ramadhan
Published: May 2017

Background: Salmonellosis is one of the foodborne illness acquired by consumption of infected raw or undercooked eggs and causes major public health problem. The aim of this study was isolation and identification of Salmonella spp. from the eggshells and the egg contents samples.Methods: In this study, a total 350 eggs were randomly collected from five local stores in Duhok and Zakho city over a period of 6 months in summer of 2016. Eggs from each local store were collected and transferred to the microbiology laboratory. The conventional culture method used for detection of Salmonella spp.Results: Out of the 350 eggs, seventeen (4.85%) samples of eggshells contaminated with Salmonella spp. and none of the egg content samples were contaminated with Salmonella genus. Out of 17 positive eggs, three different Salmonella serotypes were identified including; Salmonella enteritidis (10 strains), Salmonella typhimurium (5 strains), Salmonella typhi (2 strains).Conclusions: The results of the present study provide the recent dataset of the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in eggs sold at local stores in the city. All isolates showed resistant to tetracycline, oxacillin and sulphadimethoxazole due to the indiscriminate use of these antibiotics in chicken at sub-therapeutic level or prophylactic doses which promotes selection of antimicrobial resistant strains and also increases the human health risks associated with consumption of contaminated quail eggs. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study in Zakho- Duhok city, investigating the occurrence of Salmonella spp. in eggshell and content egg sold at local stores.
A study to assess vaccine wastage in an immunization clinic of tertiary care centre, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Tiwari Ranjana , Dwivedi Shatkratu , Swami Piyush , Mahore Rakesh , Tiwari Sakshi
Published: May 2017

Background: Vaccines are one of the most successful and cost-effective health intervention. It becomes imperative that use of vaccine was done through a proper framework of practical decision-making that confers positive health and economic benefits to the society of which Vaccine Wastage was a key factor. The aim of the study is to assess “Vaccine Wastage Rate” and “Wastage Factor” of different vaccines given to beneficiaries in Immunization Clinic and based on the above data, recommend measures to reduce it in the Immunization clinic  Methods: The present study was a Record Based Retrospective study carried out in Immunization Clinic in Madhav Dispensary of tertiary center at Gajra Raja Medical College, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. The data was collected from 1 April 2015 - 31 March 2016.Results: Immunization Sessions were conducted in Immunization clinic during reference period and 7 vaccines BCG, OPV, DPT, Hepatitis B, pentavalent, measles and TT were given. Among individual vaccines, wastage rate and wastage factor in BCG (20.71 and 1.26), OPV (14.65 and 1.17), DPT (15.6 and 1.18), Hepatitis B (10.56 and 1.12), Pentavalent (5.2 and 1.05), Measles (21.68 and 1.28), TT (7.09 and 1.08), and IPV (10.49 and 1.12) was respectively.Conclusions: Vaccine wastage could be expected in all programmes and there should be an acceptable limit of wastage. Innovative techniques to be developed not only to reduce wastage but also the operational cost for convenience of children who were to be vaccinated and parents who bring their children for vaccination without compromising coverage.
Dengue infection in central India: a 5 years study at a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Deshkar Smita T. , Raut Sharmila S. , Khadse Ravindra K.
Published: May 2017

Background: Dengue is one of the most important mosquito borne viral disease with wide spectrum of clinical presentation and often with unpredictable clinical evolution and outcome. Approximately 50 million infections occur annually world-wide, but what’s the real size of the problem in India?  Nobody truly knows...!!  Present study was carried out to determine seropositivity, clinical profile and seasonal variation of dengue infection in central India.Methods: Study was carried out from January 2012 to December 2016. Blood samples were collected from 15,606 patients with dengue like clinical illness and serum was separated. All the samples were subjected to IgM antibody detection by dengue MAC ELISA.Results: Prevalence of dengue in dengue suspected cases was found to be 24.49% (3,822/15,606). Maximum number of positive cases, 1,548 (40.50%) were in the age group of 0-10 years. Males (60.83%) were affected more than females (39.17%). Peak was observed in the months of August, September, October and November. Common presenting features were fever followed by myalgia, arthralgia, headache and bleeding manifestations. Significant drop in platelet count was observed in patients with dengue shock syndrome and dengue haemorrhagic fever.Conclusions: Number of dengue cases in central India are on increase and continued surveillance is essential to determine epidemiological and seasonal trend.
Poverty among households living in slum area of Hlaing Tharyar Township, Yangon City, Myanmar
Authors: Htwe Thet , Oo Win M. , Lwin Nay , Win Kyaw H. , Dar Hlaing T.
Published: May 2017

Background: Slums can be regarded as physical manifestations of urban poverty. Although the world has made dramatic improvement in reducing poverty since 1990, poverty still persists at an unacceptable level. Although current situations highlights the importance of slum areas to be given priority in poverty alleviation, there are limited data on poverty level among people living in urban slums of Myanmar.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among households living in slum areas of Hlaing Tharyar Township, Yangon City, Myanmar during 2016. Multi-staged systematic random sampling and face-to-face interview were applied in selecting the samples and collecting the data, respectively. The new global poverty line (1.9 USD per person per day) was used as a threshold in determining the poverty. Chi-squared test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were utilized in data analysis.Results: Altogether 254 participants were recruited after getting informed consent. The occurrence of poverty among households was 54.3% (95% CI: 48.2%, 60.5%). Head counts of poverty among study population was 58.8%. The education status of household’s head, size of household and the presence of less than 15 years old children in the household were detected as significant determinants of being poor household.Conclusions: Poverty among households living in slum area of Hlaing Tharyar Township, Yangon City was high. Measures to alleviate poverty in urban slums should be intensified. Education level of household’s heads should be improved. Family planning or birth spacing programme should also be strengthened, especially in urban slums.
Prevalence of stress among medical students and music to alleviate the stress
Authors: Zareena Shifa
Published: May 2017

Background: Stress has become a cup of coffee in everybody's life. Adults to some extent are able to cope with it. But the young chaps are put into more stressful situations by the society. They find it difficult to handle it at a very early age and end up being a victim of various addictions. The aim of the study was to survey the prevalence of stress among the medical students and their choice of preference to alleviate from stress.Methods: The study was a cross sectional study of random sampling method with a sample size of 100 medical students belonging to age group 18-21 years. Informed consent was obtained from each individual. The study was cleared by the ethics committee. The stress level of each participant was assessed using the student stress scale questionnaire.Results: Of the 100 students who completed the questionnaire, 38% of the students belonged to the ‘no stress’ category, 51% fell under ‘mild stress’ category, 8% under ‘moderate stress’ and 3% under ‘severe stress’ category. Of the 62 students who showed certain degree of stress levels, 47 (76%) students prefer music as a choice for relief from stress and 15 (24%) prefer other modes of relief such sleeping or talking to a friend, etc.Conclusions: Medical students are prone to a lot of stress during their course of study and music is the preferred choice for most students to relieve them from stress.
Community-based participatory research to improve primary mental health services
Authors: Muhlisin Abi , Pratiwi Arum
Published: May 2017

Background: Global statistics show that mental illness is among the three most common diseases globally: about 12% to 15% of the global population suffer from mental illness, this is a rate higher than heart disease and disability and twice as high as cancer. The objective of this study was to improve public health conditions through community involvement and social action that is mental health worker knowledge and skill.Methods: A purposive sampling of communities was undertaken in a village of Indonesia. The numbers of participants were trained about knowledge and skill as a mental health workers, then selected 15 people who have the best score and the most capable. Level of knowledge and skill were measured sequent for three times using multiple choice test questions. Periodic analysis used repeated measure ANOVA.Results: There were differences of mental health worker knowledge of each period. The differences between the mental health workers’ knowledge in each period is shown by a test of between-subjects effect to have an F score of 189.476 with a P value of 0.00; and the most remarkable improvement in knowledge as after given skill training in Wilk lambda of 248.71 by P value 0.00.Conclusions: There were differences of mental health worker knowledge of each period. The differences between the mental health workers’ knowledge in each period is shown by a test of between-subjects effect to have an F score of 189.476 with a P value of 0.00; and the most remarkable improvement in knowledge as after given skill training in Wilk lambda of 248.71 by P value 0.00.