bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ideal Particle Sizes for Inhaled Steroids Targeting Vocal Granulomas: Preliminary Study Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Perkins Elizabeth L. , Basu Saikat , Garcia Guilherme J. M. , Buckmire Robert A. , Shah Rupali N. , Kimbell Julia S.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Vocal fold granulomas are benign lesions of the larynx commonly caused by gastroesophageal reflux, intubation, and phonotrauma. Current medical therapy includes inhaled corticosteroids to target inflammation that leads to granuloma formation. Particle sizes of commonly prescribed inhalers range over 1 to 4 µm. The study objective was to use computational fluid dynamics to investigate deposition patterns over a range of particle sizes of inhaled corticosteroids targeting the larynx and vocal fold granulomas.

Study Design

Retrospective, case‐specific computational study.

Setting

Tertiary academic center.

Subjects/Methods

A 3‐dimensional anatomically realistic computational model of a normal adult airway from mouth to trachea was constructed from 3 computed tomography scans. Virtual granulomas of varying sizes and positions along the vocal fold were incorporated into the base model. Assuming steady‐state, inspiratory, turbulent airflow at 30 L/min, computational fluid dynamics was used to simulate respiratory transport and deposition of inhaled corticosteroid particles ranging over 1 to 20 µm.

Results

Laryngeal deposition in the base model peaked for particle sizes 8 to 10 µm (2.8%‐3.5%). Ideal sizes ranged over 6 to 10, 7 to 13, and 7 to 14 µm for small, medium, and large granuloma sizes, respectively. Glottic deposition was maximal at 10.8% for 9‐µm‐sized particles for the large posterior granuloma, 3 times the normal model (3.5%).

Conclusion

As the virtual granuloma size increased and the location became more posterior, glottic deposition and ideal particle size generally increased. This preliminary study suggests that inhalers with larger particle sizes, such as fluticasone propionate dry‐powder inhaler, may improve laryngeal drug deposition. Most commercially available inhalers have smaller particles than suggested here.
Design and manufacturing of patient-specific orthodontic appliances by computer-aided engineering techniques
Authors: Barone Sandro , Neri Paolo , Paoli Alessandro , Razionale Armando Viviano
Published: November 2017

Orthodontic treatments are usually performed using fixed brackets or removable oral appliances, which are traditionally made from alginate impressions and wax registrations. Among removable devices, eruption guidance appliances are used for early orthodontic treatments in order to intercept and prevent malocclusion problems. Commercially available eruption guidance appliances, however, are symmetric devices produced using a few standard sizes. For this reason, they are not able to meet all the specific patient’s needs since the actual dental anatomies present various geometries and asymmetric conditions. In this article, a computer-aided design-based methodology for the design and manufacturing of a patient-specific eruption guidance appliances is presented. The proposed approach is based on the digitalization of several steps of the overall process: from the digital reconstruction of patients’ anatomies to the manufacturing of customized appliances. A finite element model has been developed to evaluate the temporomandibular joint disks stress level caused by using symmetric eruption guidance appliances with different teeth misalignment conditions. The developed model can then be used to guide the design of a patient-specific appliance with the aim at reducing the patient discomfort. At this purpose, two different customization levels are proposed in order to face both arches and single tooth misalignment issues. A low-cost manufacturing process, based on an additive manufacturing technique, is finally presented and discussed.
The compositional isotemporal substitution model: A method for estimating changes in a health outcome for reallocation of time between sleep, physical activity and sedentary behaviour
Authors: Dumuid Dorothea , Pedišić Željko , Stanford Tyman Everleigh , Martín-Fernández Josep-Antoni , Hron Karel , Maher Carol A , Lewis Lucy K , Olds Timothy
Published: November 2017

How people use their time has been linked with their health. For example, spending more time being physically active is known to be beneficial for health, whereas long durations of sitting have been associated with unfavourable health outcomes. Accordingly, public health messages have advocated swapping strategies to promote the reallocation of time between parts of the time-use composition, such as “Move More, Sit Less”, with the aim of achieving optimal distribution of time for health. However, the majority of research underpinning these public health messages has not considered daily time use as a composition, and has ignored the relative nature of time-use data. We present a way of applying compositional data analysis to estimate change in a health outcome when fixed durations of time are reallocated from one part of a particular time-use composition to another, while the remaining parts are kept constant, based on a multiple linear regression model on isometric log ratio coordinates. In an example, we examine the expected differences in Body Mass Index z-scores for reallocations of time between sleep, physical activity and sedentary behaviour.
Management of Neurologic Deformity of the Ankle and Foot With Concurrent Osteomyelitis With the Ilizarov Method
Authors: Kliushin Nikolay Mikhailovich , Sudnitsyn Anatoliy Sergeyevich , Subramanyam Koushik Narayan , George Jefferson
Published: November 2017

Background:

The combination of neurologic deformity of the ankle and foot with osteomyelitis is a therapeutic challenge. We investigated the role of Ilizarov with regard to eradication of infection, correction of deformities and improvement of patient function.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 77 patients (77 feet) with neurologic deformity of the ankle and foot with osteomyelitis treated sequentially in 3 stages by Ilizarov method. The 3 stages were (1) active debridement and Ilizarov stabilization, (2) further strengthening of Ilizarov fixator and active osteosynthesis consisting of strategies like arthrodesis, osteotomy distraction, bone transport, or combination thereof, (3) consolidation of fusion/regeneration achieved in second stage. Patients with Charcot arthropathy were not included in the study. There were 43 males and 34 females with mean age of 34.4 (range, 18 to 70) years. All patients had a minimum of 1 year follow-up and 49 patients had 5 years follow-up.

Results:

Mean duration of external fixation was 179.9 (range, 128 to 413) days. The success of infection eradication was 90.9% and 91.9% at the end of 1 and 5 years, respectively. We achieved plantigrade feet in all cases with no recurrence of deformity. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Score (AOFAS) improved from a median preoperative value of 74 (interquartile range, 65 to 75.25) to 81 (interquartile range, 77 to 88) ( P < .0001). The improvement of the score was by 7 points only considering the painless nature of the pathology, and the fact that pain contributed to 40% of total score. A total of 39 complications occurred in 30 patients which were managed successfully by alteration of rehabilitation and carefully chosen interventions.

Conclusion:

Ilizarov external fixation was an effective technique to address problems associated with neurologic foot and ankle deformity with infection. It allowed eradication of infection and achievement of a stable plantigrade foot. It had some disadvantages like lengthy duration of treatment, pin-tract infections, need for operative expertise, and supervised rehabilitation, but we feel these were definitely outweighed by its benefits.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Evaluation of rivaroxaban use in patients with gynecologic malignancies at an academic medical center: A pilot study
Authors: Signorelli Jessie R , Gandhi Arpita S
Published: November 2017

Background

Patients with gynecologic malignancies are at an increased risk for venous thromboembolism. National guidelines recommend treatment of an acute venous thromboembolism with low molecular weight heparin for 5–10 days followed by long-term secondary prophylaxis with low molecular weight heparin for at least six months. Non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants are not currently recommended to be used in cancer patients for the management of venous thromboembolism because robust data on their efficacy and safety have yet to become available in cancer patients. The objectives of this study were to determine the proportion of gynecologic oncology patients with venous thromboembolism using rivaroxaban compared to warfarin or low molecular weight heparin as well as compare the safety and efficacy of these anticoagulants.

Methods

This study was a retrospective pilot analysis of adult patients with gynecologic malignancies who received either rivaroxaban, warfarin or low molecular weight heparin for treatment of venous thromboembolism at Augusta University Medical Center from 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2015. Statistical comparisons between the enoxaparin and rivaroxaban group were made using T-tests and Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests, where appropriate.

Results

Out of the 49 patients, 37% (18) patients were on rivaroxaban, 53% (26) on enoxaparin, and 10% (5) on warfarin. Only one patient (4%) in the enoxaparin group experienced a recurrent deep vein thrombosis while there were no cases of recurrent venous thromboembolism in the rivaroxaban and warfarin group. The incidence of major bleeding was 17% ( n = 2), 20% ( n = 1), and 8% ( n = 2) in patients receiving rivaroxaban, enoxaparin, and warfarin, respectively. The rate of switching to a different anticoagulant than originally prescribed was 42% ( n = 14) in the enoxaparin arm, and 5.5% ( n = 1) in the rivaroxaban arm.

Conclusion

A high proportion of our gynecologic oncology patients received rivaroxaban for the management of venous thromboembolism. The sample size of this pilot analysis was too small to draw any conclusions regarding efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban compared with enoxaparin and warfarin. High rate of rivaroxaban use in gynecologic oncology patients at our institution highlights the need for larger, well-designed randomized controlled trials to confirm the safety and efficacy of its use in this population.
Mapping the aesthetics of leadership development through participant perspectives
Authors: Carroll Brigid , Smolović Jones Owain
Published: November 2017

This enquiry sets out to explore leadership development as an intrinsically aesthetic experience, drawing on the reflexivity of participants from four intensive, long-term leadership development experiences to claim that the very architecture of knowing and experience in leadership development may be interpreted as shaped aesthetically. Five different aesthetic discourses are identified and named as partiality, dissipation, disruption, sensation and connectedness. The interdependence between these is then examined in one extended participant narrative. What emerges is an understanding of leadership development as a felt experience, where any leadership concepts are known and experienced through the lens of a vivid milieu of affective, visceral, sensory, embodied and relational processes, which aesthetically shape what participants come to recognise as leadership. We propose that paying attention to the aesthetics of leadership development has the potential to radically change how leadership development is researched, practiced and understood.
The effect of affect: How affective style determines attitudes towards the EU
Authors: Nielsen Julie H
Published: November 2017

Research shows that affective style (i.e. our individual ways of responding to emotions) matters for social behaviour. This article explores how affective style, as a new key predictor, explains attitudes towards the European Union, encompassing the feeling of internal efficacy towards the EU and trust in the EU. The study relies on survey data from Denmark (2014). The article concludes that the affective styles of tolerating, concealing and adjusting all significantly predict EU attitudes, albeit in different ways. Adjusting is positively associated with EU attitudes, while tolerating and concealing are negatively related to EU attitudes. Mediation analysis shows that most of personality's effect is not mediated by affective style. Hence, most of the effect of affective style is not merely a transmission of prior personality effect.
School participation for children with disabilities in Kenya
Authors: Moyi Peter
Published: November 2017

In Kenya, policies to increase access to quality education have largely focused on reducing rural/urban, gender, and income inequality. Yet, many children do not attend or fully participate in school because they have physical and mental disabilities. The goal of this paper is to examine school enrollment, attendance, and primary school completion patterns for children with disabilities in Kenya. The study used the 2007 Kenya National Survey for Persons with Disabilities. The aim of the survey, the first of its kind in Kenya, was to estimate the number of people with disabilities, their regional distribution, and their demographic and socio-economic characteristics. The study finds that children with disabilities face significant obstacles to schooling. Schools are unable to offer services to children with disabilities, hence making it difficult for them to attend school. These children are significantly less likely to enroll in school, attend school, and complete primary school.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled, single ascending-dose study of remyelinating antibody rHIgM22 in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Eisen Andrew , Greenberg Benjamin M , Bowen James D , Arnold Douglas L , Caggiano Anthony O
Published: November 2017

Objective

The objective of this paper is to assess, in individuals with clinically stable multiple sclerosis (MS), the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and exploratory pharmacodynamics of the monoclonal recombinant human antibody IgM22 (rHIgM22).

Methods

Seventy-two adults with stable MS were enrolled in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, single ascending-dose, Phase 1 trial examining rHIgM22 from 0.025 to 2.0 mg/kg. Assessments included MRI, MR spectroscopy, plasma PK, and changes in clinical status, laboratory values and adverse events for three months. The final cohort had additional clinical, ophthalmologic, CSF collection and exploratory biomarker evaluations. Participants were monitored for six months.

Results

rHIgM22 was well tolerated with no clinically significant safety signals. Noncompartmental PK modeling demonstrated linear dose-proportionality both of Cmax and AUC0–Last. The steady-state apparent volume of distribution of approximately 58 ml/kg suggested primarily vascular compartmentalization. CSF:plasma rHIgM22 concentration increased from 0.003% on Day 2 for both 1.0 and 2.0 mg/kg to 0.056% and 0.586% for 1.0 and 2.0 mg/kg, respectively, on Day 29. No statistically significant treatment-related changes were observed in exploratory pharmacodynamic outcome measures included for the 21 participants of the extension cohort.

Conclusions

Single doses of rHIgM22 were well tolerated and exhibited linear PK, and antibody was detected in the CSF.
Comparison of patellar tracking according to different angles of external rotation of femoral component in varus knee of Asians
Authors: Park Jai Hyung , Bin Seong-Il , Kim Jong-Min , Lee Bum-Sik , Lee Chang-Rack , Kim Jong-Min , Cho Yongun
Published: November 2017

Purpose:

Racial difference in the femoral geometry may exist. Asian femurs may be more externally rotated. If anatomical differences in distal femur had existed between Caucasians and Asians, the group with 5° external rotation of the femoral component should have shown better results than the group with 3° external rotation of the femoral component have.

Methods:

598 patients underwent total knee arthroplasty in our institution, among whom 83 patients (115 knees) who had postoperative computed tomography (CT) were studied retrospectively. Sixty-two knees were set in 5° of external rotation of femoral component relative to the posterior condylar axis (group A) while the others (53 knees) were set in 3° (group B). The femoral component rotation (FCR) was measured and compared using CT. The patellar tilting (PT) and the lateral patellar displacement (LPD) were measured to evaluate the patellar tracking using Merchant view. And postoperative clinical scores were compared.

Results:

The mean FCRs showed no significant difference between two groups ( p > 0.05). The mean PT and LPD showed no statistically significant difference either ( p > 0.05). There were no statistical differences in clinical scores.

Conclusion:

The difference in the patellar tracking between the two groups could not be demonstrated. There were no statistical differences in clinical scores either. We concluded there is no need to adhere to 5° external rotation.
Evolution of blood pressure management in acute intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Chu Stacy , Sansing Lauren
Published: November 2017

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remains a prevalent and severe cause of death and disability worldwide. Control of the hypertensive response in acute ICH has been a mainstay of ICH management, yet the optimal approaches and the yield of recommended strategies have been difficult to establish despite a large body of literature. Over the years, theoretical and observed risks and benefits of intensive blood pressure reduction in ICH have been studied in the form of animal models, radiographic studies, and two recent large, randomized patient trials. In this article, we review the historical and developing data and discuss remaining questions surrounding blood pressure management in acute ICH.
Recent advances in the understanding and management of bipolar disorder in adults
Authors: Rybakowski Janusz K.
Published: November 2017

This article focuses on some aspects of recent progress in the neurobiology and treatment of bipolar disorder (BD) in adults. A molecular-genetic approach to the etiopathogenesis of the illness resulted in the findings of a genetic overlap between BD and other major psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, a poly-gene-environmental interaction in the development of the illness has been demonstrated. For the management of BD, new drugs with putative mood-stabilizing properties have been introduced in the past two decades. However, none of these can surpass lithium, the prototype mood-stabilizer, still considered the most specific drug for BD. Recent research on lithium, besides providing new data on the neurobiology of BD, has confirmed anti-suicidal, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective properties of this drug.
ROTULAGEM DE IOGURTES E BEBIDAS LÁCTEAS COMERCIALIZADAS EM CURITIBA, PARANÁ
Authors: Teider Junior Pedro Irineu , Miyoshi Luany Yone , Mantovani Sarah Larisse , Raldi Tania , Silva Weber Luiz Felipe , Arantes Galvão Julia
Published: November 2017

O objetivo neste estudo foi verificar se os rótulos das embalagens de iogurtes e bebidas lácteas comercializadas nos supermercados da cidade de Curitiba-PR estavam de acordo com as normas estabelecidas pelo Ministério da Agricultura Pecuária e Abastecimento (MAPA). Para isso, foram avaliados 16 rótulos de iogurtes e 13 de bebidas lácteas industrializados sob regime de inspeção federal, disponíveis nos supermercados do município. Os itens foram classificados em “conforme”, “não conforme” ou “não se aplica”. Foram verificados 25 itens nas embalagens de iogurtes e 31 nas de bebidas lácteas. Todas as marcas avaliadas apresentaram inconformidades na rotulagem. Os itens com maior incidência de inadequações foram a não apresentação do nome do produto em uniformidade com a marca comercial (100% das marcas avaliadas de ambos os produtos) e não apresentação de número de INS dos aditivos (81,25% dos iogurtes e 100% das bebidas lácteas). Inconformidades referentes a identificação do lote, datas de fabricação e/ou validade, presença de informações falsas, incorretas ou insuficientes, destaque à presença de componentes intrínsecos ao próprio produto, indicação de propriedades medicinais ou terapêuticas e/ou ausência da função dos aditivos utilizados foram observados em diferentes produtos e marcas de forma isolada. Com isso, conclui-se que as empresas fabricantes não estão obedecendo as normas estabelecidas pela legislação.
CONDIÇÕES HIGIÊNICO-SANITÁRIAS DA PRODUÇÃO DE QUEIJOS TIPO MUSSARELA E MINAS FRESCAL COMERCIALIZADOS NO NORTE DO PARANÁ
Authors: Oliveira Aline Marangon , Kurihara Ricardo Yudi , Silva Francine Fernandes da , Silva Fernando De Godoi , Ribeiro Júnior José Carlos , Beloti Vanerli
Published: November 2017

O queijo devido à sua rica composição de nutrientes oferece condições para a multiplicação de microrganismos. A presença de coliformes totais e termotolerantes indica contaminação de origem ambiental e fecal, respectivamente, o que pode caracterizar, dependendo da contagem, baixa qualidade microbiológica e condições higiênico-sanitárias insatisfatórias durante o processo de produção do queijo, além da possibilidade da presença de enteropatógenos. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a condição higiênica da produção de queijo tipo mussarela e Minas frescal, produzidos na região Norte do Paraná. Foram analisadas 50 amostras de queijo, sendo 14 de mussarela e 36 de Minas frescal, no período de junho de 2011 a junho de 2016. As condições sanitárias de produção foram avaliadas através da contagem de coliformes totais e termotolerantes conforme a metodologia preconizada pela legislação brasileira. Para o queijo mussarela, foi observado que todas as amostras apresentavam contagens de acordo com os padrões preconizados para coliformes totais e termotolerantes. No entanto, foi observado que 55,6% das amostras de queijo Minas frescal estavam em desacordo com os padrões estabelecidos pela legislação para coliformes totais, assim como 27,8% para termotolerantes. Estes resultados indicam que parte considerável dos queijos tipo Minas frescal apresentam condições higiênicas insatisfatórias durante as etapas de produção e risco à saúde dos consumidores, fazendo-se necessárias a adoção de boas práticas de fabricação, aplicando medidas corretivas e de monitoramento que permitam a redução dessa contaminação, o atendimento aos padrões de qualidade microbiológica estabelecido pela legislação e garantia da segurança microbiológica.
Multiple nonradial solutions for a nonlinear elliptic problem with singular and decaying radial potential
Authors: Rolando Sergio
Published: November 2017

Many existence and nonexistence results are known for nonnegativeradialsolutions to the equation

-\triangle u+\frac{A}{|x|^{\alpha}}u=f(u)\quad\text{in }\mathbb{R}^{N},\,N\geq 3% ,\,A,\alpha>0,\,u\in D^{1,2}(\mathbb{R}^{N})\cap L^{2}(\mathbb{R}^{N},|x|^{-% \alpha}\,dx),

with the nonlinearities satisfying{|f(u)|\leq(\mathrm{const.})u^{p-1}}for some{p>2}. The existence ofnonradialsolutions, by contrast, is known only for{N\geq 4},{\alpha=2},{f(u)=u^{(N+2)/(N-2)}}andAlarge enough. Here we show that the above equation has multiple nonradial solutions as{A\rightarrow+\infty}for{N\geq 4},{2/(N-1)<\alpha<2N-2}and{\alpha\neq 2}, with the nonlinearities satisfying suitable assumptions. Our argument essentially relies on the compact embeddings between some suitable functional spaces of symmetric functions, which yields the existence of nonnegative solutions of mountain-pass type, and the separation of the corresponding mountain-pass levels from the energy levels associated to radial solutions.
Estimating Classification Errors Under Edit Restrictions in Composite Survey-Register Data Using Multiple Imputation Latent Class Modelling (MILC)
Authors: Boeschoten Laura , Oberski Daniel , de Waal Ton
Published: November 2017

Both registers and surveys can contain classification errors. These errors can be estimated by making use of a composite data set. We propose a new method based on latent class modelling to estimate the number of classification errors across several sources while taking into account impossible combinations with scores on other variables. Furthermore, the latent class model, by multiply imputing a new variable, enhances the quality of statistics based on the composite data set. The performance of this method is investigated by a simulation study, which shows that whether or not the method can be applied depends on the entropy R
2 of the latent class model and the type of analysis a researcher is planning to do. Finally, the method is applied to public data from Statistics Netherlands.
The Effects of the Frequency and Implementation Lag of Basket Updates on the Canadian CPI
Authors: Huang Ning , Wimalaratne Waruna , Pollard Brent
Published: November 2017

In this article, we examine the effects of different frequencies and implementation months of basket updates on the fixed-basket price index – the Lowe index, through theoretical analysis and empirical simulation using Canadian data from 2000 to 2013. We find that both an increased frequency of basket updates and a faster implementation of these new baskets will reduce substitution bias in the CPI. However, we also find that improvements to the method of accelerating frequency has diminishing marginal returns in practice – as each subsequent increase in the frequency with which the CPI basket is updated has a less pronounced effect; and the ideal link-month when a new basket is implemented is unpredictable, since the impact of the implementation lag depends upon the consistency between short-term price movements and long-term price trends.
Multiply-Imputed Synthetic Data: Advice to the Imputer
Authors: Loong Bronwyn , Rubin Donald B.
Published: November 2017

Several statistical agencies have started to use multiply-imputed synthetic microdata to create public-use data in major surveys. The purpose of doing this is to protect the confidentiality of respondents’ identities and sensitive attributes, while allowing standard complete-data analyses of microdata. A key challenge, faced by advocates of synthetic data, is demonstrating that valid statistical inferences can be obtained from such synthetic data for non-confidential questions. Large discrepancies between observed-data and synthetic-data analytic results for such questions may arise because of uncongeniality; that is, differences in the types of inputs available to the imputer, who has access to the actual data, and to the analyst, who has access only to the synthetic data. Here, we discuss a simple, but possibly canonical, example of uncongeniality when using multiple imputation to create synthetic data, which specifically addresses the choices made by the imputer. An initial, unanticipated but not surprising, conclusion is that non-confidential design information used to impute synthetic data should be released with the confidential synthetic data to allow users of synthetic data to avoid possible grossly conservative inferences.
Living in the Matrix: How a Scientific Conjecture was Turned into a Conspiracy Theory
Authors: Paura Roberto
Published: November 2017

In recent years the simulation argument, namely, the idea that our reality is a kind of computer-generated simulation developed for hidden purposes, has acquired some credit and has been appropriated by the conspiracy culture, especially in the works of David Icke, author of paranoid bestsellers and known for his pseudo-theory about Reptilian aliens who secretly rule our world. To understand the reasons for the success of such an implausible pseudo-theory, it is necessary to analyze its genealogy inside popular culture. The methodological proposal underlying this paper is that the analysis of conspiracy theories and pseudo-scientific beliefs can benefit from the contribution of the history of ideas, which traditionally focuses on the reconstruction of the genealogy and the metamorphosis of unit-ideas over time and through different cultural levels. In this way, it is possible to shed light on the background and the peculiar rationality behind these pseudo-theories. The paper highlights New Age appropriation mechanisms of the theories of physicist David Bohm and neuropsychiatrist Karl Pribram (holographic principle), in particular through the pseudoscientific works of the McKenna Brothers (The Invisibile Landscape, 1975) and Michael Talbot (The Holographic Universe, 1991) as well as the impact of some sci-fi works based on the simulation argument, especially Philip K. Dick’s novels and The Matrix movie (1999), in exposing the paranoid and conspiracy implications of this argument. The paper also highlights the role of pseudo-scientific concepts as a characteristic aspect of contemporary superconspiracies, which in the age of rationalization and disenchantment seek to embrace a patina of science in order to be better accepted by the public. Wider application of this perspective to other cases of pseudo-scientific beliefs and contemporary conspiracy theories (e.g. flat Earth or chemtrails) could provide useful suggestions on the most effective way of counteracting them.
Crystal structure of poly[aqua-(μ3-pyridine-3,5-dicarboxylato-κ5
O,O′:O′′,O′′′,N)zinc(II)], C7H7NO6Zn
Authors: Li Dong-Mi , Xu Xue-Li , Li Shi-Hui
Published: November 2017

C7H7NO6Zn, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 10.009(10) Å, b = 11.907(12) Å, c = 7.328(7) Å, β = 105.050(12)°, V = 843.3(15) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0681, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1757, T = 296(2) K.
What the Emerging Protestant Theology was about. The Reformation Concept of Theological Studies as Enunciated by Philip Melanchthon in his Prolegomena to All Latin and German Versions ofLoci
Authors: Oseka Matthew
Published: November 2017

The present paper examines the rudimentary concept of the Protestant theology as an academic discipline which was enunciated by Melanchthon in his prolegomena to all Latin and German versions ofLociwhich were the instrument indispensable for educating a next generation of the Protestant divines and for disseminating the ideas of the Reformation worldwide.
Céli Dé—Ascetics or Mystics? Máelrúain of Tallaght and Óengus Céle Dé as Case Studies
Authors: Rumsey Patricia M.
Published: November 2017

The Céli Dé monks as we see them in the texts associated with their monasteries had a reputation for extreme asceticism. Following their leader, MáelRúain, who had an especially stern reputation for rigorous observance, they believed heaven had to be earned by saying many prayers, by penitential practices and by intense personal effort and striving on the part of each individual monk. To this end, they engaged in such practices as rigorous fasting, long vigils, confession of sins, strict Sabbath observance and devotional practices involving many prayers. Their view of humanity and of creation generally was negative and they saw God as a stern judge. However, there was another aspect to Céli Dé monasticism which we see in theFélire Óengusso, the metrical martyrology compiled by Óengus the Culdee, a monk of Tallaght. We see from hisFélirethat he understood holiness as a gift of God’s grace, both for the saints in heaven, whom he describes as ‘radiant’ and ‘shining like the sun’, and for those still on earth, through the mercy and graciousness of God himself. HisFélirewas compiled as an act of devotion to Jesus and the saints, whom he addresses in terms of great warmth, tenderness and intimacy, in expressions which prefigure the language of the medieval mystics. So by studying the lives of these two monks, MáelRúain and Óengus, his protégée, as case studies, we can see that for the Céli Dé, holiness was less a matter of ‘either asceticism or mysticism’, but rather ‘both and’.
Reformation or Revolution? Herman Bavinck and Henri de Lubac on Nature and Grace
Authors: Parker Gregory W.
Published: November 2017

Henri de Lubac’s treatment of the relationship between nature and grace will be critiqued by Herman Bavinck’s ‘grace restores nature’ theme. In two significant addresses, Bavinck critiqued a Roman Catholic approach to nature and grace. De Lubac’s influence upon Roman Catholic thinking addressing nature and grace occurred post-Bavinck and has altered Catholic thinking on the subject. Neo-Calvinist scholar, Wolter Huttinga admits that Bavinck and de Lubac offer similar critiques of Roman Catholicism (Huttinga 2014). The question remains then, do Bavinck’s critiques still hold? I propose that Bavinck’s account of grace restores nature still makes valid critiques of a post-Vatican II construction of nature and grace. The paper is broken into three sections: (1) an exploration of de Lubac’s nature and grace theme, (2) the framework of Bavinck’s ‘grace restores nature’ theme, and (3) a Bavinckian critique of de Lubac’s nature and grace theme.
Identifying Dominant Runoff Processes at a Regional Scale – A GIS - Based Approach
Authors: Joseph Fagbohun Babatunde , Franklin Olabode Oluwaseun , Olufemi Adebola Abiodun
Published: November 2017

Identifying landscapes with similar hydrological characteristics is useful for the determination of dominant runoff process (DRP) and flood prediction. Several approaches used for DRP-mapping differ in respect to time and data requirement. Manual approaches based on field investigation and expert knowledge are time consuming and difficult to implement at regional scale. Automatic GIS-based approach on the other hand require simplification of data but are easier to implement and it is applicable on regional scale.

In this study, GIS-based automated approach was used to identify the DRPs in Anambra area. The result showed that Hortonian Overland Flow (HOF) has the highest coverage of 1508.3 Km2 (33.5%) followed by Deep Percolation (DP) with coverage of 1455.3 Km2 (32.3%). Subsurface Flow (SSF) is the third dominant runoff process covering 920.6 Km2 (20.4%) while Saturated Overland Flow (SOF) covers the least area of 618.4 Km2 (13.7%) of the study area. The result reveal that considerable amount of precipitated water would be infiltrated into the subsurface through deep percolation process contributing to groundwater recharge in the study area. However, it is envisaged that HOF and SOF will continue to increase due to the continuous expansion of built-up area. With the expected increase in HOF and SOF and the change in rainfall pattern associated with perpetual problem of climate change, it is paramount that groundwater conservation practices be considered to ensure continued sustainable utilization of groundwater in the study area.
Analysis of the Robustness of Australia Economy and Energy Supply/Demand Fluctuation
Authors: Aslani Alireza , Rezaee Mohsen , Mortazavi Seyed Mostafa
Published: November 2017

Energy has a strategic role in social and economic development of the countries. Due to the high dependency of energy supply to fossil fuels, fluctuations in prices and supply have macro/micro-economics effects for both energy exporters and importers. Therefore, understanding economic stability based on energy market changes is an important subject for policy makers and researchers. As the competitiveness of Australia products/services has high dependency on energy prices, analyzing the relationships of economics robustness with fossil fuel fluctuations is important for the policy makers and researchers. In this paper, the researchers investigate the effects of energy changes on Australian economics. In this regard, first, the impact of oil price on macro-economic parameters is discussed. After that, the main issues related to energy economics including resilience of the energy sector, energy policies, economics analysis of the energy sector, electricity markets are discussed.
Analysis of the Hydroclimatic Risk Parameters at the High Level of the Tazlăul Sărat River in 2016 Year
Authors: Luca Mihail , Avram Mihaela
Published: November 2017

The paper presents an analysis of the hydrological risk parameters registered in June 2016 in the catchment area of the Tazlăul Sărat River. The studies and researches were carried out on the upper course of the river, in the area between Zemeş and Toderaş, the commune of Zemeş, Bacau county. The river basin of the Tazlăul Sărat River has been affected by several floods in recent years. The floods have morphologically modified the minor and the major river bed, which has influenced the stability of the county road and the river construction. The study focused on the analysis of precipitation and liquid flows over a period of 20 years. Processing of liquid flow data revealed more flood flows in the same year. In 2016 there was a flow of 342 m3/ s (probability of 3%). The effects of the floods have materialized through the excessive degradation of shore defence works until their total destruction. The degradation of shore defence works has contributed to breaking the county road and limiting the road traffic. Parameters of hydroclimatic risk highlighted by research impose special conditions when designing shore defence works and protecting the road adjacent to the river.
Estimating the Impact of Human Activities on the Environment in Moldova Region (HI Index)
Authors: Ursu Adrian , Jitariu Vasile , Ciutea Alexandru
Published: November 2017

This paper work tries to spatialize the effects of the anthropic activity on the environment, as the human society continuous development requires space, food, energy and resources and that has a significant impact. Trying to evidentiate this kind of pressure over the environment by cartographic materials, that combines all effects is an impossible endeavor, but highlighting affected areas in an irreversible manner by an increased degree of artificiality is a necessity for the future environmental policy, so, starting from this point we were able to apply a methodology on the studied area and we obtained a seth of conclusing results.
Pedo-Climatic Risks Over Făllticeni City Related Orchards
Authors: Jitariu Vasile , Rosca Bogdan , Rusu Constantin
Published: November 2017

Through this study, “Pedo-climatic risks over Fălticeni city related orchards”, we intend to conduct a study that highlights the way that a number of parameters such as climate and soil, through their evolution, may be considered a risk factor for orchards nearby Fălticeni city.

The analysis of potential risk factors was conducted in direct relation with the of dominant species from studied area, which are apple (Malus domestica) and plum (Prunus domestica).

From a climatic perspective, there were taken into account two parameters, temperature and rainfall, to see if they can induce a risk status in the studied orchards and as soil factors that were taken as parameters in our analysis are: soil reaction, carbonates of calcium and the ground water level, which are, at the same time, indicators that impose the most common restrictions over the studied plantations.
Effect of right sidelying respiratory left adductor pull back exercise in subjects with iliotibial band tightness
Authors: Shori Gaurav , Joshi Ajay
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Many of the impairments associated with lumbo-pelvic-femoral conditions, like tightness of the iliotibial band, may be bound with postural asymmetry, abnormal chain pattern, and restriction of the range of motion. Although physical therapists currently utilize the right sidelying respiratory left adductor pull back (RSRLAPB) technique for numerous musculoskeletal conditions, there is little research published on the efficacy of the technique. Therefore, this study explored the effect of RSRLAPB exercise on hip adduction angle in subjects with iliotibial band tightness.

Methods

The total of 30 participants (16 males, 14 females) were recruited on the basis of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and randomized into two groups. Group 1 (experimental group) received moist heat pack, stretching, and RSRLAPB exercise for 3 weeks, while in group 2 (control group), moist heat pack and stretching were applied for 3 weeks. Both groups were tested at baseline and post-intervention for hip adduction angle.

Results

Statistically significant differences in hip adduction angle were observed between groups 1 and 2 (p < 0.001), as well as within group 1 (p < 0.001) and within group 2 (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results revealed that RSRLAPB exercise not only improves limited hip adduction in subjects with iliotibial band tightness but also rectifies postural asymmetry and establishes normal respiratory pattern.
Urinary incontinence prevalence in the day-by-day life and during sports practice in volleyball athletes: a systematic review
Authors: Pereira Franciele da Silva , Haupenthal Alessandro , Scarabelot Karoline Sousa , Brunazo Paula Ferrarezi , Nunes Iohana , Virtuoso Janeisa Franck
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Urinary incontinence (UI) is perceived as a problem that affects older and multiparous women. However, recent studies report that involuntary loss of urine also affects athletes, young and nulliparous. There is controversy over the role of exercise in UI. Thus the purpose of the review is to describe and evaluate scientific evidence concerning the prevalence of UI in female volleyball athletes.

Methods

The review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The selected databases were PubMed, LILACS, PEDro, Medline, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect. The searches were performed between December 2016 and January 2017. The descriptors and Boolean operators used in the search were as follows: ‘urinary incontinence AND athletes AND volleyball.’ After peer evaluation, 47 studies were identified, and 6 articles were selected for review. The methodological evaluation was based on Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE).

Results

The review identified the UI prevalence of 9–30% during sports practice and 17–18% in the day-by-day life. Practising physical exercise of high impact appears to be a causing factor of UI in women.

Conclusions

Practising volleyball in the female population can be an important UI risk factor. Owing to the high prevalence of UI, coaches and athletes must be aware of the importance of training the pelvic floor muscles simultaneously with the sports practice.
HCViewer: software and technology for quality control and processing raw mass data of preventive screening
Authors: Starunova Olga A. , Rudnev Sergey G. , Starodubov Vladimir I.
Published: November 2017

A prototype automated system for the analysis and processing raw data of mass population screening in the Russian health centers (HCs), software program HCViewer, is developed. In it, essential elements of big data, including data filtering (i.e., detection and removal of outliers and fraud cases), statistics and spatial visualization are implemented. Testing HCViewer on the datasets of knowingly reliable, unreliable, and partially reliable bioimpedance body composition data has shown high diagnostic specificity (95.2–98.9%) and sensitivity (94.5–99.2%) of the filtering criteria. Retrospective analysis of the HCs’ bioimpedance database revealed rapid growth in the proportion of fraud cases, from 5–7% in 2009 to 43–45% in 2013–2014 (with the correction for false alarm rate), and the high level of heterogeneity in data quality, so that 80.3% of the incorrect data were generated in 20% of the HCs. This indicates inefficient management of the Russian preventive screening system and suggests incomparability and, therefore, uselessness of the related health statistics from some regions without a preliminary filtering of the underlying raw data. Our results show the potential utility of HCViewer for the dynamical quality control of the preventive screening data, as well as for the online health monitoring and modelling potential effects of various control measures aimed at the prevention of non-communicable diseases. After application of the selection criteria, a cross-sectional 2009–2015 database of bioimpedance measurements of 1.27 million individuals aged 5–96 years was formed for the assessment of population health. On the whole, fraud prevention should become the responsibility of the Russian health care system to ensure an efficiency of its function.
The Effect of the Free Surface on the Singular Stress Field at the Fatigue Crack Front
Authors: Oplt Tomáš , Pokorný Pavel , Náhlík Luboš , Hutař Pavel
Published: November 2017

Description of stress singularity in the vicinity of a free surface is presented. Its presence causes the retardation of the fatigue crack growth in that region and fatigue crack is being curved. Numerical model is used to study dependence of the stress singularity exponent on Poisson’s ratio. Estimated values are compared to those already published. Experimentally measured angles of fatigue crack on SENB specimens confirm the relation between Poisson’s ratio and the angle between crack front and free surface.
Regional Rockburst Inidicator for Structural Units of Upper Silesia Coal Basin
Authors: Patyńska Renata , Stec Krystyna
Published: November 2017

The paper presents the characteristics of seismic tremors and rockbursts that occurred between 2001 and 2015. The characteristics are based on a general description of the geological structure of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin (USCB). The level of seismic activity in the analysed period changed a number of times and depended on the intensity of mining works and diverse mining and geological conditions in each of the five regions where tremors occurred (Bytom Trough, Main Saddle, Main Trough, Kazimierz Trough, and Jejkowice and Chwałowice Troughs) and which belong to various structural units of the Upper Silesia. It was found out that in the case of rockbursts the phenomena were recorded in three regions. These are: Main Saddle, Bytom Trough, and Jejkowice and Chwałowice Troughs. The so called Regional Rockburst Indicator (RWT) was estimated for each of the regions where the rockbursts had been recorded. The obtained values of RWT are presented against the Probability of RockBurst (PT) in a given area.
Identification of Anisotropic Criteria for Stratified Soil Based on Triaxial Tests Results
Authors: Tankiewicz Matylda , Kawa Marek
Published: November 2017

The paper presents the identification methodology of anisotropic criteria based on triaxial test results. The considered material is varved clay – a sedimentary soil occurring in central Poland which is characterized by the so-called “layered microstructure”. The strength examination outcomes were identified by standard triaxial tests. The results include the estimated peak strength obtained for a wide range of orientations and confining pressures. Two models were chosen as potentially adequate for the description of the tested material, namely Pariseau and its conjunction with the Jaeger weakness plane. Material constants were obtained by fitting the model to the experimental results. The identification procedure is based on the least squares method. The optimal values of parameters are searched for between specified bounds by sequentially decreasing the distance between points and reducing the length of the searched range. For both considered models the optimal parameters have been obtained. The comparison of theoretical and experimental results as well as the assessment of the suitability of selected criteria for the specified range of confining pressures are presented.