bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient Perspectives on the Ethical Implementation of a Rapid Learning System for Oncology Care
Authors: Jones Rochelle D. , Sabolch Aaron N. , Aakhus Erin , Spence Rebecca A. , Bradbury Angela R. , Jagsi Reshma
Published: February 2017

Introduction:

A rapid learning system (RLS) of health care harnesses data generated from routine patient care to create a virtuous cycle of data collection and analysis for quality improvement and research. The success of such systems depends on understanding patient perspectives regarding the ethical issues that arise from the ongoing implementation of this transformative concept.

Methods:

An interview guide was designed to evaluate patient perspectives to inform the ethical implementation of an oncology RLS. A purposively selected, diverse sample of 32 patients with cancer was recruited from two institutions to participate in semistructured, in-depth interviews for formal qualitative analysis.

Results:

The extent to which respondents expressed discomfort with more permissive system features (less formal notification/consent, broader uses/users, inclusion of sensitive data) reflected their trust, which in turn seemed to vary by sociodemographic features. It was also influenced by their familiarity with technology and their attitudes and beliefs regarding privacy and the use of electronic medical records more generally. Distrust of insurers and the pharmaceutical industry led subjects to desire greater oversight and restriction of these potential users of the system. Subjects were most comfortable when doctors were the primary users, engaged patients directly in the notification and consent discussion, and oversaw the system.

Conclusion:

Those actively developing RLSs should recognize the critical importance of trust and the key role that doctors will need to play in order for such systems to be successful and to ensure that their implementation is ethically palatable to the patients whose data are being included.
Qualitative Study of Oncologists’ Views on the CancerLinQ Rapid Learning System
Authors: Mayo Rachel M. , Summey Julie F. , Williams Joel E. , Spence Rebecca A. , Kim Shally , Jagsi Reshma
Published: February 2017

Introduction:

ASCO is actively developing CancerLinQ (CLQ), a rapid learning system for oncology care. The purpose of this study was to explore providers’ opinions and concerns related to implementation of CLQ, including ethical issues.

Methods:

Twenty key informant oncologists were recruited for individual in-depth interviews through ASCO contacts, purposively selected to represent a wide variety of cancer specialties as well as different levels of familiarity with CLQ (familiar v unfamiliar). Qualitative data analysis was completed by a three-member team using an inductive narrative approach. Themes were examined by participants familiar and unfamiliar with CLQ, and quotations exemplifying each theme are provided.

Results:

Participants’ opinions centered on three main themes: (1) general attitudes regarding learning health care systems, (2) optimal approach to patient consent, and (3) appropriateness of data use. There was clear support for the use of big data in clinical decision making for patients and in research. Unfamiliar participants expressed concerns regarding system protections against patient identification, and both familiar and unfamiliar participants discussed the dilemma of including genetic information. Respondents were in agreement with notifying patients early; however, there was debate over whether patients should opt in or opt out. Overall, there was great concern regarding sharing data with drug companies and insurers.

Conclusion:

Understanding oncologists’ perspectives regarding the ethical implications of CLQ implementation is critical to its success. More research is needed on the impact of rapid learning systems on providers, patients, health systems, and the ultimate effect on cancer care.
Transparency of Industry-Sponsored Oncology Patient Financial Assistance Programs Using a Patient-Centered Approach
Authors: Zafar S. Yousuf , Peppercorn Jeffrey , Asabere Akwasi , Bastian Alex
Published: February 2017

Objective:

Pharmaceutical manufacturers sponsor drug-specific patient assistance programs that provide eligible patients with financial assistance, either in the form of providing the drug free of charge or copayment assistance. Describing these programs and determining who receives assistance is an important first step in understanding the impact and role of financial assistance in cancer care. Our objective was to describe eligibility criteria and benefits for cancer-specific, manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance programs.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective review of patient assistance program Web sites and called patient assistance program telephone hotlines from the perspective of a patient or caregiver requesting program details.

Results:

We identified 24 manufacturers with patient assistance programs, covering 87% of Food and Drug Administration–approved oncology drugs. For free drug programs, the average maximum annual income for qualification was $86,279. For copayment assistance programs, the average was $104,790. Thirty-five percent of free drug programs and 53% of copayment assistance programs declined to provide details on how financial need was determined. None of the programs shared details on patient usage statistics.

Conclusion:

Variation exists in the quality and quantity of data available to patients seeking financial assistance for cancer treatment via manufacturer Web sites and hotlines. Greater transparency among patient assistance programs would enhance utility for patients and help to determine the net impact on costs and adherence.
How We Care for an Older Patient With Cancer
Authors: Shahrokni Armin , Kim Soo Jung , Bosl George J. , Korc-Grodzicki Beatriz
Published: February 2017

As the number of older patients with cancer is increasing, oncology disciplines are faced with the challenge of managing patients with multiple chronic conditions who have difficulty maintaining independence, who may have cognitive impairment, and who also may be more vulnerable to adverse outcomes. National and international societies have recommended that all older patients with cancer undergo geriatric assessment (GA) to detect unaddressed problems and introduce interventions to augment functional status to possibly improve patient survival. Several predictive models have been developed, and evidence has shown correlation between information obtained through GA and treatment-related complications. Comprehensive geriatric evaluations and effective interventions on the basis of GA may prove to be challenging for the oncologist because of the lack of the necessary skills, time constraints, and/or limited available resources. In this article, we describe how the Geriatrics Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center approaches an older patient with colon cancer from presentation to the end of life, show the importance of GA at the various stages of cancer treatment, and how predictive models are used to tailor the treatment. The patient’s needs and preferences are at the core of the decision-making process. Development of a plan of care should always include the patient’s preferences, but it is particularly important in the older patient with cancer because a disease-centered approach may neglect noncancer considerations. We will elaborate on the added value of co-management between the oncologist and a geriatric nurse practitioner and on the feasibility of adapting elements of this model into busy oncology practices.
Establishment of Personalized Pain Goals in Oncology Patients to Improve Care and Decrease Costs
Authors: Zylla Dylan , Larson Amber , Chuy Gladys , Illig Lisa , Peck Adina , Van Peursem Sarah , Fulbright James W. , Pawloski Pamala A. , Richter Sara , Mettner Jeanne
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

Cancer-related pain is common, negatively affects quality of life and survival, and often requires treatment with opioid analgesics. Patient-reported data that describe the incidence and severity of pain, medication use, and patient satisfaction with care are lacking.

Methods:

We analyzed 18 months of outpatient oncology clinic encounters from the electronic medical record to obtain data on pain levels and opioid and nonopioid treatments. In June 2014, we instituted a pain intervention by creating a pain management information handout for patients, educating clinicians on opioid cost-effectiveness, and implementing a nursing protocol to document personalized pain goals (PPGs).

Results:

Moderate to severe pain was reported in nearly 15% of patient encounters. We observed an increase in the percentage of encounters with a documented PPG of 16% to 71% ( P < .001). On average, PPG was achieved in 84% of patients. Rates of high-cost long-acting opioid prescriptions (oxycodone controlled release and fentanyl patches), as a total of all long-acting opioids, declined from 45% preintervention to 33% postintervention ( P = .005).

Conclusion:

Our intervention improved rates of PPG documentation and decreased the number of prescriptions for high-cost long-acting opioids. Oncology clinics can implement simple quality improvement methods, such as asking patients about their PPG and educating clinicians about opioid costs, to improve outcomes and lower treatment costs.
Supporting the Supporters: What Family Caregivers Need to Care for a Loved One With Cancer
Authors: Berry Leonard L. , Dalwadi Shraddha Mahesh , Jacobson Joseph O.
Published: February 2017

Patients with cancer who live at home often require help with activities of daily living, basic medical care (eg, injections), social needs, and patient advocacy. Most of that support comes from intimate caregivers, typically members of the patient’s family. These family caregivers themselves require support so that they can be effective and maintain their own well-being while caring for the patient with cancer. Research shows that support for caregivers contributes to achieving these goals. We propose a four-part framework for supporting family caregivers: (1) assess caregivers’ needs using formal measures, just as the cancer patient’s own needs are assessed, (2) educate caregivers for their caregiving roles, most notably, with training in the low-level medical support that cancer patients require at home, (3) empower caregivers to become full-fledged members of the patient’s cancer team, all working toward common goals, and (4) assist caregivers proactively in their duties, so that they retain a sense of control and self-efficacy rather than having to react to imminent medical crises without sufficient resources at their disposal. Funding support for family caregivers requires refocusing on the overall well-being of the patient-caregiver dyad rather than just on the patient. It will necessitate a paradigm shift in reimbursement that recognizes the need for holistic cancer care.
Evolving Treatment of Oligometastatic Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer
Authors: Clement Jessica M. , Sweeney Christopher J.
Published: February 2017

Oligometastatic disease was postulated by Hellman and Weichselbaum in 1995 to be a disease state that may reflect a time point in the malignant process that may be amenable to local therapies to allow for patients to achieve a durable response or possible cure despite having advanced disease. Aggressive metastasis-directed therapy has been used in malignancies such as renal cell carcinoma, non–small-cell lung cancer, and colorectal cancer with some evidence of long-term benefit in selected patients. Recently, it has been proposed that some men with oligometastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer may also benefit from metastasis-directed therapy. As with most malignancies, optimal therapy for prostate cancer relies on multimodal therapy, best highlighted by the survival benefit seen in high-volume metastatic prostate cancer with the addition of docetaxel to androgen-deprivation therapy. This is becoming increasingly evident for oligometastatic prostate cancer, with emerging data sets suggesting a possible benefit of local ablative therapies for metastatic lesions combined with androgen-deprivation therapy. However, the bulk of the data is retrospective and thus subject to bias. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating combination therapy to help elucidate the role of each therapy separately and together to determine optimal interventions for this population. This clinical review discusses the retrospective data evaluating local therapies such as radiation and surgery in men with lymph node–positive disease, as well as limited bone metastases, and outlines ongoing, prospective clinical trials designed to further investigate the role of multimodality therapy in the outcomes of men with oligometastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer.
­A curated transcriptomic dataset collection relevant to embryonic development associated with in vitro fertilization in healthy individuals and patients with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Mackeh Rafah , Boughorbel Sabri , Chaussabel Damien , Kino Tomoshige
Published: February 2017

The collection of large-scale datasets available in public repositories is rapidly growing and providing opportunities to identify and fill gaps in different fields of biomedical research. However, users of these datasets should be able to selectively browse datasets related to their field of interest. Here we made available a collection of transcriptome datasets related to human follicular cells from normal individuals or patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, in the process of their development, during in vitro fertilization. After RNA-seq dataset exclusion and careful selection based on study description and sample information, 12 datasets, encompassing a total of 85 unique transcriptome profiles, were identified in NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus and uploaded to the Gene Expression Browser (GXB), a web application specifically designed for interactive query and visualization of integrated large-scale data. Once annotated in GXB, multiple sample grouping has been made in order to create rank lists to allow easy data interpretation and comparison. The GXB tool also allows the users to browse a single gene across multiple projects to evaluate its expression profiles in multiple biological systems/conditions in a web-based customized graphical views. The curated dataset is accessible at the following link: http://ivf.gxbsidra.org/dm3/landing.gsp.
Improving the care of children with learning disabilities in hospital
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: February 2017

Emeritus Professor Alan Glasper, from the University of Southampton, discusses care delivery for children with learning disabilities or autism who require a hospital stay, prompted by the recent Lenehan report
Late gastrointestinal effects of pelvic radiation: a nurse-led service
Authors: Ludlow Helen , Green John , Turner Jeff
Published: February 2017

There are currently at least 2 million people in the UK living with and following a cancer diagnosis. Typically four out of every ten people with cancer will receive radiotherapy, but a large proportion of people who have pelvic radiotherapy may go on to develop gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. This includes rectal bleeding and faecal incontinence, which can have a huge impact on quality of life. These problems often go under-reported by patients and are also under-recognised or under-treated by health professionals. Cancer survivorship is a growing topic that is likely to have a major impact on the NHS, with increasing numbers of patients presenting. A late GI effects of pelvic radiotherapy clinic was set up to address these growing needs of patients with GI symptoms following radiotherapy. This article also shares insights from a doctoral study that is underway looking at people's experiences of living with symptoms following their treatment, in order to improve awareness of the major impact that this can have.
Understanding application of topical steroids and emollients
Authors: Voegeli David
Published: February 2017

Advice must be clear so patients understand what to do and then do it, writes David Voegeli
Narrador, trapero, condensador de restos. Sobre la poética de Marcelo Cohen
Authors: Sánchez Silvina
Published: February 2017

El artículo indaga la construcción de imágenes de artista y escritor así como también las concepciones de la creación, del arte y de la literatura que pueden observarse en cierta zona de la obra de Marcelo Cohen. Se consideran tanto su producción crítica–ensayística, fundamentalmente el libro ¡Realmente fantástico! y otros ensayos, como su producción ficcional, en particular la nouvelle «Un hombre amable» (Hombres amables) y el cuento «Usos de las generaciones» (Los acuáticos); con la finalidad de explorar los múltiples cruces, continuidades y rupturas que pueden observarse entre ambas modalidades de escritura y las formas en que, a través de este diálogo prolífico, se trama la construcción de su poética. Se estudian principalmente la imagen de un artista que crea a partir del desperdicio, vinculada con las figuras del trapero y del niño tal como han sido pensadas por Walter Benjamin, y la imagen de un narrador que se obstina en poner en palabras su experiencia. Además, se analizan ciertas figuraciones de la literatura como creación de algo autosuficiente que se incorpora al mundo y como construcción de un lugar, susceptible de despuntar la sensación verdadera y de convocar a los sujetos en reunión, espacio de comunidad hospitalario y amable.
Qualitative Analysis of Tencel A100 Fiber and Selected Regenerated Cellulose Fibers
Authors: Gao Youjun , Liu Jinrui , Zhao Sumin , Zhang Xiangli
Published: February 2017

This research studies the solubility properties of certain regenerated cellulose fibers in commonly-used acidic reagents, including formic acid/zinc chloride. A dissolution method for qualitative identification of Tencel A100 (lyocell) fiber in the presence of various other regenerated cellulose fibers was established. This qualitative method was simple, rapid, and had high sensitivity.
Effect of Low Temperature Plasma Treatment on the Dyeability of Regenerated Bamboo/Cotton Blended Fabrics
Authors: Kan C. W. , Lam P. S.
Published: February 2017

In this research, regenerated bamboo (viscose)/cotton blended fabrics were treated with low temperature plasma under various treatment conditions (i.e., oxygen flow rate, jet-to-substrate distance, and plasma treatment time) to evaluate how these parameters influenced fabric dyeing properties. It was shown that low temperature plasma treatment can modify polymer surfaces and change the substrate's properties, such as wettability. In this study, plasma-treated fabrics were dyed with mono-functional and bi-functional reactive dyes to check for changes in CIELAB, Δ E*, and color yield values. The study concluded that color yield of the plasma-treated fabric was better when dyed to a color depth of 3%.
„Kwazar”, „Fantom”, „Czerwony Karzeł”, „Inne Planety”. Kilka uwag krytycznych o nietypowej sytuacji fantastycznych fanzinów w kulturze polskiej
Authors: Kochanowicz Rafał
Published: February 2017

In Poland, research-related fanzines rarely include writings edited by Polish fans of science fiction, horror and fantasy. Active fans edited amateur magazines which were very important because they popularized fantastic literature and culture in Poland. The role of fantastic fanzines was not limited solely to the promotion of amateur creativity or publishing translations of foreign fiction not available on the market, but also consisted in the creation of creative bonds between writers and readers. The remnants of the activities of Polish fantastic fiction fans are about one hundred titles including “Quasar”, “Red Dwarf” and “Other Planets”. These three fanzines as effects of pure amateur work are also very similar to the professional magazines. Each of them has a different poetics and thematic dominant. They have also published stories written by famous Polish writers such as Ewa Białołęcka and Andrzej Sapkowski.
Fantastyka i temat Holokaustu. Między wątpliwościami a funkcjonalnością konwencji fantastycznych
Authors: Brzóstowicz-Klajn Monika
Published: February 2017

Starting with Jerzy Jarzębski’s opinion that the fantastic convention in contemporary literature fulfills the role of “artificial sense”, the Author analyzes selected works related to the subject of the Holocaust in order to check the functionality and artistic value of fantastic elements used there. She notes that fantasy helps writers express the experience of emptiness following a loss, strengthens the trauma related to the past, and emphasizes the literariness of the text, fulfilling the role of metafiction.
Instytucje publiczne oraz stanowienie i egzekwowanie prawa w Polsce w latach 2009-2015 w ocenie menedżerów
Authors: Kowalski Tadeusz
Published: February 2017

Celem artykułu jest prezentacja i ocena ewolucji postrzegania przez menedżerów zmian w środowisku instytucjonalnym w Polsce w latach 2009-2015. Niewystarczająca sprawność funkcjonowania instytucji publicznych i jakość prawodawstwa w Polsce jest krytykowana przez obywateli, przedsiębiorców i polityków. Mimo że dostrzegają poprawę, podobne oceny polskiego otoczenia instytucjonalnego formułują zagraniczni obserwatorzy. Przedstawiane w artykule oceny zmian w otoczeniu instytucjonalnym oparte są na własnych badaniach prowadzonych od 1997 r. W artykule zaprezentowano zarys kanałów transmisji warunków w otoczeniu instytucjonalnym na bieżące i długoterminowe decyzje ekonomiczne.JEL: K00, D78, P37
Manipulowanie zyskami przez spółki debiutujące na GPW
Authors: Lizińska Joanna , Czapiewski Leszek
Published: February 2017

Badania prowadzone były dla spółek z sektora pozafinansowego dokonujących pierwszych ofert publicznych (initial public offering, IPO), na rynku głównym Giełdy Papierów Wartościowych w Warszawie w latach 1998-2013. Celem była odpowiedź na pytanie, czy dla spółek dokonujących pierwotnych emisji akcji w Polsce zaobserwować można zjawisko zarządzania zyskami w okresach okołoemisyjnych.Badania empiryczne dotyczyły zjawiska kształtowania wyniku typu materiałowego i przeprowadzono je, wykorzystując różnorodne podejścia i kilku modeli estymacji przesunięć międzyokresowych. Podjęto cztery grupy problemów badawczych – badano skłonność do przekraczania zysku zerowego, skłonność do przekraczania rentowności roku poprzedniego, manipulowanie zyskami poprzez dokonywanie nietypowych przesunięć międzyokresowych oraz konsekwencje manipulowania zyskami dla kolejnych okresów sprawozdawczych.W roku debiutu giełdowego zaobserwowano relatywne zwiększenie poziomu nietypowych przesunięć międzyokresowych (discretionary accruals), czemu towarzyszyło nasilenie skłonności do wykazywania zysku przynajmniej na poziomie roku poprzedniego i skłonności do raportowania dodatniego wyniku finansowego. Konsekwencją nietypowych korekt w roku IPO było osłabienie rentowności w okresie bezpośrednio po debiucie.
Estetyka – zapomniany piąty człon filozofii prawa
Authors: Zajadło Jerzy
Published: February 2017

Filozofia prawa dotyczy takich tradycyjnych kwestii filozoficznych, jak ontologia, epistemologia, logika i etyka. Zwykle jednak nie uwzględnia ostatniego z głównych zagadnień filozoficznych ‒ estetyki. Autor próbuje wypełnić tę lukę tzw. estetyką pragmatyczną, sformułowaną przez Richarda Schustermana. Stosując terminologię łacińską, twierdzi, że lex (prawo) powinna być nie tylko certa, praevia, scripta et stricta, ale również pulchra (pewne, uprzednie, pisemne, ścisłe, ale również piękne). W artykule przedstawiono też trzy różne perspektywy związków prawa z estetyką. W podsumowaniu autor próbuje dokonać przykładowo estetycznej oceny systemu prawa jako całości, posiłkując się analizą obrazu Gustava Klimta Jurisprudenz.
Adaptive holographic interferometer based on optically addressed spatial light modulator for high-sensitivity optical fiber sensing
Authors: Peigné Arnaud , Bortolozzo Umberto , Residori Stefania , Molin Stéphanie , Nouchi Pascale , Dolfi Daniel , Huignard Jean-Pierre
Published: February 2017

Adaptive holographic interferometry is a promising method for high-sensitivity phase-modulation measurements in the presence of slow perturbations from the environment. This technique is based on the use of a nonlinear recombining medium. We report the realization of an adaptive holographic interferometer relying on an optically addressed liquid crystal spatial light modulator operating at 1.55 μm. The beam-coupling process that occurs in a GaAs-liquid crystal device, allows obtaining a phase-modulation sensitivity of 200 μrad/sqrt (Hz) at 1 kHz. The interferometer behaves as an optical high-pass filter, with a cutoff frequency of approximately 10 Hz, thus, filtering slow-phase disturbances, such as due to temperature variations or low-frequency fluctuations, and keeping the detection linear without the need of heterodyne or active stabilization. Moreover, owing to the basic principle of holography, this technique can be used with complex wave fronts such as the speckled field reflected by a highly scattering surface or the optical field at the output of a multimode optical fiber. We demonstrate both theoretically and experimentally that using a multimode optical fiber as a sensing element, rather than a single-mode fiber, allows improving the interferometer phase sensitivity. Finally, we present a phase-optical time domain reflectometry (OTDR) optical fiber sensor using the adaptive holographic interferometer.
Sleep-related breathing biomarkers as a predictor of vital functions
Authors: Proniewska Klaudia , Pregowska Agnieszka , Malinowski Krzysztof Piotr
Published: February 2017

Because an average human spends one third of his life asleep, it is apparent that the quality of sleep has an important impact on the overall quality of life. To properly understand the influence of sleep, it is important to know how to detect its disorders such as snoring, wheezing, or sleep apnea. The aim of this study is to investigate the predictive capability of a dual-modality analysis scheme for methods of sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBDs) using biosignals captured during sleep. Two logistic regressions constructed using backward stepwise regression to minimize the Akaike information criterion were extensively considered. To evaluate classification correctness, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used. The proposed classification methodology was validated with constructed Random Forests methodology. Breathing sounds and electrocardiograms of 15 study subjects with different degrees of SRBD were captured and analyzed. Our results show that the proposed classification model based on selected parameters for both logistic regressions determine the different types of acoustic events during sleep. The ROC curve indicates that selected parameters can distinguish normal versus abnormal events during sleep with high sensitivity and specificity. The percentage of prediction for defined SRBDs is very high. The initial assumption was that the quality of result is growing with the number of parameters included in the model. The best recognition reached is more than 89% of good predictions. Thus, sleep monitoring of breath leads to the diagnosis of vital function disorders. The proposed methodology helps find a way of snoring rehabilitation, makes decisions concerning future treatment, and has an influence on the sleep quality.
Body composition and somatotype of judo athletes and untrained male students as a reference group for comparison in sport
Authors: Buśko Krzysztof , Pastuszak Anna , Kalka Ewa
Published: February 2017

Study aim: The aim of this study was to determine the body composition and somatotype of untrained male students studying at Warsaw University of Technology in 2011, in order to create a current reference group for comparison, and to investigate the difference in body build of male judoists compared with the non-athlete group.

Materials and methods: Fifteen male judo athletes (age 18.6 ± 1.9 years, body height 177.4 ± 8.5 cm, body mass 80.3 ± 15.8 kg, training experience 10.0 ± 2.8) and 154 male untrained students of the Warsaw University of Technology (age 20.1 ± 0.9 years, body height 180.9 ± 7.2 cm, body mass 75.6 ± 10.9 kg) participated in the study. Somatotype was determined using the Heath- Carter method.

Results: The mean somatotype of the untrained students was 3.94.62.9, whilst that of the judo athletes was 3.25.91.8; the groups differed significantly in their mesomorphy and ectomorphy components. Significant differences between the groups were found in breadth of wrist, bicristal diameter and arm circumference (p < 0.05). The groups were also significantly different in body composition as estimated by BIA and anthropometric methods (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The morphological characteristics of the judo athletes differed from those of the untrained men. The somatic profile of body build for athletes in this sport seems to be optimal for achieving high results, the somatotype not having changed since the 1990s.
Late physiotherapy rehabilitation changes gait patterns in post-stroke patients
Authors: Almeida Aline do Socorro Soares Cardoso , Viana da Cruz Alex Tadeu , Candeira Skarleth Raissa Andrade , Cardoso do Nascimento Nathalya Ingrid , Santana de Castro Ketlin Jaquelline , Costa de Lima Ramon , Generoso Campos Pinho Barroso Tatiana , Souza Givago da Silva , Callegari Bianca
Published: February 2017

Study aim: To determine whether a physiotherapy protocol improves the electromyographic activation (EA) during the hemiparetic gait in patients with delayed access to rehabilitation.

Material and methods: 40 post-stroke patients underwent clinical evaluation and gait assessment at the time of admission and at the end of treatment.

Results: The anterior leg muscles tibialis anterior and rectus femoris had earlier onset (p = 0.0001).

Conclusion: Electromyographic findings showed altered patterns during the hemiparetic gait cycle, even in patients with delayed access to treatment.
Alzheimer’s disease as an inflammatory disease
Authors: Bolós Marta , Perea Juan Ramón , Avila Jesús
Published: February 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by the formation of amyloid-β plaques, aggregated and hyperphosphorylated tau protein, activated microglia and neuronal cell death, ultimately leading to progressive dementia. In this short review, we focus on neuroinflammation in AD. Specifically, we describe the participation of microglia, as well as other factors that may contribute to inflammation, in neurodegeneration.
A Study on Bandwidth and Performance Limitations of Array Vibration Harvester Configurations
Authors: Aboulfotoh Noha , Twiefel Jens
Published: February 2017

Many researchers introduced an array of generators for broadband energy harvesting. The array has been studied in comparison to a single element from this array, but never compared to a single reference harvester with same volume as the whole array. This paper presents a theoretical study of evaluating the performance of the array harvester in comparison to the reference harvester. Power from the reference harvester as well as from the array is analytically calculated. The array is compared to the reference harvester when loaded by their optimal resistances which provide maximum power capability. The comparison is divided into two sections: firstly when the elements of the array are tuned to resonate at matching frequencies and secondly when they are tuned to non-matching resonance frequencies. The comparisons lead to two significant limits of the working bandwidth of the array: the lower and the upper limit. Between the two limits, the power produced from the array is less than the reference harvester, but with a small additional bandwidth. Below the lower limit, the array has no advantage over the reference harvester. Above the upper limit, output power of the array is inconsistent. Hence, design guidelines for the array are provided.
Three-dimensional ultrasound for prenatal assessment of conjoined twins: additional advantages?
Authors: Wataganara Tuangsit , Ruangvutilert Pornpimol , Sunsaneevithayakul Prasert , Russameecharoen Kusol , Nawapun Katika , Phithakwatchara Nisarat
Published: February 2017

Conjoined twins are a rare, but serious, complication of monozygotic twins. Early prenatal diagnosis of conjoined twins is increasingly made with transvaginal ultrasound and color Doppler studies. Most prenatally diagnosed conjoined twins are terminated due to the high perinatal mortality, but advancement in pediatric surgery has allowed for successful postnatal separation in a small number of cases, and some parents may consider this option over termination of pregnancy. It is important to get a detailed prenatal ultrasound for the site and extent of fusion for an accurate categorization. Three-dimensional ultrasound (3DUS) provides images that can facilitate counselling for the parents. Additional information that impacts on diagnosis, prognostication, and perinatal management of conjoined twins could be obtained from selective use of 3DUS, particularly those with atypical fetal union. Most of the proposed additional benefits of 3DUS are based on case reports. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been increasingly used for the purpose of identifying intricate organ sharing. Because of the rarity of this condition, and the heterogeneity of fetal fusion, added benefits of either 3DUS or MRI for prenatal diagnosis and perinatal management of conjoined twins have not been demonstrated by well-conducted clinical trials. This article aims to review clinical application of various 3DUS display modes in prenatal assessment of conjoined twins, focusing on their potential additional benefits, risks and misuses. 3DUS may help detecting additional findings that are not possible with 2DUS, but, it has not been scientifically shown to improve the survival rate of the twins or reduce maternal morbidity.
Phonotactic c(l)ues to Bantu noun class disambiguation
Authors: Braver Aaron , Bennett Wm. G.
Published: February 2017

While a number of phonologists assume that phonotactics can provide clues to abstract morphological information, this possibility has largely gone unconsidered in work on Bantu noun classes. We present experimental evidence from isiXhosa (a Bantu language of the Nguni family, from South Africa), showing that speakers make use of root phonotactics when assigning noun classes to nonce words. Nouns in Xhosa bear class-indicating prefixes, but some of these prefixes are homophonous – and therefore ambiguous. Our findings show that when speakers are presented with words that have prefixes ambiguous between two classes, phonotactic factors can condition them to treat the nouns as one class or the other. This suggests that noun class (and other abstract morphological information) is not only stored in the lexicon, but is also redundantly indicated by phonotactic clues.
Haematological Indices in Trypanosoma Brucei Brucei (Federe Isolate) Infected Nigerian Donkeys (Equus Asinus) Treated with Homidium and Isometamidium Chloride
Authors: Oparah Queen Nneka , Sackey Anthony Bedu kojo , Lawal Idris Alao , Abdullahi Usman Shehu
Published: February 2017

The efficacy of intramuscular administration of Homidium chloride (Novidium®) and Isometamidium chloride (Sécuridium®) in Nigerian donkeys (Equus asinus) experimentally infected with T. b. brucei (Federe isolate) was investigated. Changes in haematological and serum biochemical indices were evaluated using clinical haematology and biochemistry methods. Red blood cell (RBC) count for the negative control group was significantly higher than for the positive control, Novidium® and Sécuridium®-treatment groups. Haemoglobin (Hb) concentration significantly reduced in the infected untreated group compared with other groups. Packed cell volume (PCV) was significantly different between negative and positive controls, and also between the infected untreated and treatment groups. There was significant reduction in platelet counts post-infection and post-treatment. Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) increased significantly in the treatment groups while mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) significantly reduced only in the Sécuridium®-treatment group. Lymphocyte count for infected untreated was non-significantly higher than for the uninfected controls, but treatment with both trypanocides recorded further increases, which were higher compared with that of the uninfected group. Post infection and treatment, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels increased significantly. There were non-significant differences in electrolyte ion concentrations across the groups except for chloride ion which recorded a significant reduction in the Novidium®-treatment group. This experiment revealed that Nigerian donkeys infected with T. brucei brucei (Federe isolate) developed symptoms of trypanosomosis; anaemia, lymphocytosis and thrombocytopenia. Treatment with the trypanocides ameliorated effects of the infection, and results suggest that immunosuppression may not be a substantial clinical manifestation of T. brucei brucei (Federe isolate) trypanosomosis in Nigerian donkeys.
Accelerated materials design approaches based on structural classification: application to low enthalpy high pressure phases of SH3 and SeH3
Authors: Flores-Livas José A. , Sanna Antonio , Goedecker Stefan
Published: February 2017

We propose a methodology that efficiently asseses major characteristics in the energy landscape for a given space of configurations (crystal structures) under pressure. In this work we study SH
Electrotransfer of plasmid DNA radiosensitizes B16F10 tumors through activation of immune response
Authors: Savarin Monika , Kamensek Urska , Cemazar Maja , Heller Richard , Sersa Gregor
Published: February 2017

Background

Tumor irradiation combined with adjuvant treatments, either vascular targeted or immunomodulatory, is under intense investigation. Gene electrotransfer of therapeutic genes is one of these approaches. The aim of this study was to determine, whether gene electrotransfer of plasmid encoding shRNA for silencing endoglin, with vascular targeted effectiveness, can radiosensitize melanoma B16F10 tumors.

Materials and methods

The murine melanoma B16F10 tumors, growing on the back of C57Bl/6 mice, were treated by triple gene electrotransfer and irradiation. The antitumor effect was evaluated by determination of tumor growth delay and proportion of tumor free mice. Furthermore, histological analysis of tumors (necrosis, apoptosis, proliferation, vascularization, presence of hypoxia and infiltration of immune cells,) was used to evaluate the therapeutic mechanisms.

Results

Gene electrotransfer of plasmid silencing endoglin predominantly indicated vascular targeted effects of the therapy, since significant tumor growth delay and 44% of tumor free mice were obtained. In addition, irradiation had minor effects on radioresistant melanoma, with 11% of mice tumor free. The combined treatment resulted in excellent effectiveness with 88% of mice tumor free, with more than half resistant to secondary tumor challenge, which was observed also with the plasmid devoid of the therapeutic gene. Histological analysis of tumors in the combined treatment group, demonstrated similar mode of action of the gene electrotransfer of plasmid encoding shRNA for silencing endoglin and devoid of it, both through the induction of an immune response.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that irradiation can in radioresistant melanoma tumors, by release of tumor associated antigens, serve as activator of the immune response, besides directly affecting tumor cells and vasculature. The primed antitumor immune response can be further boosted by gene electrotransfer of plasmid, regardless of presence of the therapeutic gene, which was confirmed by the high radiosensitization, resulting in prolonged tumor growth delay and 89% of tumor free mice that were up to 63% resistant to secondary challenge of tumor. In addition, gene electrotransfer of therapeutic plasmid for silencing endoglin has also a direct effect on tumor vasculature and tumors cells; however in combination with radiotherapy this effect was masked by pronounced immune response.
Research Concerning The Distribution of Temperature in Asphalt Mixtures with The Help of Thermo-Physical Characteristics for Laboratory Tests
Authors: Marc Paul , Costescu Ciprian
Published: February 2017

The characterization of the material through laboratory tests performed on asphalt mixtures offers significant performance predictions for asphalt pavements only when the material temperature is correctly taken into consideration. This paper presents an analytical pattern which, based on the thermo-physical characteristics, can predict correctly the distribution of temperatures in the mass of asphalt mixtures.

The paper also presents the organizational structure of laboratory testing, designed to validate the model for temperature determination. The temperature measurements are realized on a range of cylindrical samples at different moments in time, after submitting the sample from a low balance condition to a high balance condition by placing it in the environment precinct, according to the future test.

In conclusion, the paper aims at realizing and developing a model as a practical instrument able to offer a reliable assessment concerning the time required in order to reach the testing temperature specified for the samples of asphalt mixtures for different laboratory trials.
“Warm Mix Asphalt’’ for Airport Use
Authors: Petcu Claudia , Răcănel Carmen
Published: February 2017

“Warm Mix Asphalt” (WMA) is a technology developed to obtain an asphalt mixture at lower temperatures. The method has significant benefits for the economic and environmental area.

As known, “warm mix asphalt” uses additives in bitumen having the purpose to reduce the viscosity in order to decrease the mixing and compaction temperatures.

Hot mix asphalt used in the airport area, especially the area of taxiway and the apron must satisfy beside usual requirements for roads, some requirements related to fuel resistance and de-icing agents according to European norms.

Does warm mix asphalt for airport use meet the requirements according to European norms? This is the question from this paper which aims to determine the characteristics of asphalt mixtures for airports BBA16 when using or not using an additive, considering a series of laboratory tests: cyclic triaxial compression test, fatigue test, stiffness modulus test and resistances to fuels test.
Producing Cheap Food and Labour: Migrations and Agriculture in the Capitalistic World-Ecology
Authors: Gerbeau Yoan Molinero , Avallone Gennaro
Published: February 2017

Through the perspective of world-ecology, one of the most recent approaches in international relations, we aim to analyse global capitalism as an ecological project based on the appropriation of human and extra-human nature oriented to support capital accumulation process. Agriculture and its labour force occupy a central role in maintaining the world-system in which global chains, international migrations and centre-periphery relationships interact. This paper shows how global processes occur at this intersection. The aim of this paper is to contribute to the analysis of the current world-system through this innovative approach, developed mainly by Jason W. Moore, and then show how the world-system’s structure and its crisis have articulated a highlyinternationalized production model whose most significant effect has been the generation of large migrations of cheap labour across the planet. It is also proposed to descend to the local context to highlight examples because the organization of work at this territorial scale is representative of global agricultural production.
Repetition as Trapped Emotion in Tennessee Williams’s the Glass Menagerie
Authors: Kusovac Olivera , Pralas Jelena
Published: February 2017

Repetition as a linguistic and stylistic device extensively used in Tennessee Williams’s plays has been noticed by many. At the same time, more psychologically-inclined scholars have frequently drawn parallels between Williams’s plays and his own experiences and emotional conflicts. In an attempt to combine the two perspectives, this article will explore the function of repetitions as indicators of trapped emotions in Williams’s celebrated and award-winning play The Glass Menagerie. Starting from the stylistic theoretical background, but at the same time taking into account the psychological insights into the link between Williams’s life and work through some basic concepts of Freud and Lacan, an attempt will be made to demonstrate that in this play linguistic repetition appears as an obsessive expression of the characters’ emotions as well as those of the dramatist himself, making him repeat and relive both his experiences and his emotions. The authors will first introduce the concept and functions of repetition as a linguistic and stylistic device and then explore its representative instances in individual characters and their meanings, ending with the parallels which can be drawn between the characters’ and the dramatist’s own experiences and emotions expressed or intensified through repetitions.
Recruiting the reader in literary criticism
Authors: Lewin Beverly A. , Perpignan Hadara
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we analyze an array of rhetorical strategies directly aimed at recruiting the reader to be an active collaborator in the construction of arguments in literary criticism. Many techniques for this purpose have been posited, mainly reporting the frequency of specific, discrete lexicogrammatical items. However, this approach does not capture techniques that are not necessarily realized by a discrete structure but can be interpreted in terms of function. Our approach brought to light some techniques not previously reported, which operate simultaneously in individual texts. In addition, a framework is needed to account for the saliency of the diverse strategies involved. We propose a typology of techniques that tap various aspects of the reader's experience – among them the social, affective, ideological, and the intellectual spheres.

Furthermore, analysis of recruitment strategies has been mainly restricted to scientific and other texts that validate their arguments by empirical research. Our study is based on texts in literary research, a field which is dependent on convincing the reader of the superiority of the critic's new reading and presumably entails a greater need for active collaboration of the reader.
Juxtaposing identities as a symbolic resource: social and problem gamblers in Singapore's problem gambling campaign
Authors: Leung Ray C. H. , Kong Kenneth C. C.
Published: February 2017

This study of gambling discourse focuses on how the governing party in Singapore makes use of the discursively constructed juxtaposing identities of social and problem gamblers as a symbolic resource for reaching its objective of public governance. To this end, the present article studies four gamblers' spoken testimonials recorded for a campaign launched by the Singapore National Council on Problem Gambling. The data were analyzed in relation to process types, appraisal resources, and code choice. It is found that via different linguistic means, the gamblers, as represented in the discourse, perform a range of identities, thereby foregrounding specific aspects of their self. Examples include the social gamblers' frequent use of relational processes to offer descriptive statements on the definition of gambling and the problem gamblers' self-evaluation of unethical behavior associated with gambling through intensive use of