bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ophiolite-related associations of platinum-group minerals at Rudnaya, western Sayans and Miass, southern Urals, Russia
Authors: Barkov Andrei Y. , Tolstykh Nadezhda D. , Shvedov Gennadiy I. , Martin Robert F.
Published: April 2018

We describe similar assemblages of minerals found in two placers in Russia, both probably derived from an ophiolitic source. The first is located along the River Rudnaya in the western Sayan province, Krasnoyarskiy kray, and the second pertains to the Miass placer zone, Chelyabinsk oblast, in the southern Urals. The platinum-group element (PGE) mineralization in both cases is mostly (at least 80%) represented by alloy minerals in the system Ru–Os–Ir, in the order of occurrence osmium, ruthenium and iridium. The remainder consists of Pt–Fe alloys and species of PGE sulfides, arsenides, sulfarsenides, etc. The associated olivine and amphiboles are supermagnesian, and the chromian spinel has a high Cr# value. The observed enrichment in Ru, typical of an ophiolitic source, may be due to high-temperature hydrothermal equilibration and mobilization in the ophiolite, as is the enrichment in Mg and Cr. Low-temperature replacement of the alloys led to the development of laurite, sulfoarsenides and arsenides. Some placer grains in both suites reveal unusual phases of sulfo-arsenoantimonides of Ir–Rh, e.g. the unnamed species (Rh,Ir)SbS and (Cu,Ni)1+x(Ir,Rh)1–xSb, wherex= 0.2, and rhodian tolovkite, (Ir,Rh)SbS. Two series of natural solid-solutions appear to occur in the tolovkite-type phases. Among the oddities in the Rudnaya suite are globules of micrometric PGE sulfides, crystallites of platinum-group minerals, amphibole, and chalcopyrite bearing skeletal micrometric monosulfide-like compounds (Cu,Pt,Rh)S and (Pd,Cu)S1–x. Pockets of fluxed evolved melt seem to have persisted well below the solidus of the host Pt3Fe-type alloy.
Factor VIIa induces anti-inflammatory signaling via EPCR and PAR1
Authors: Kondreddy Vijay , Wang Jue , Keshava Shiva , Esmon Charles T. , Rao L. Vijaya Mohan , Pendurthi Usha R.
Published: April 2018

Key Points

The coagulation protease FVIIa attenuates TNF-α- and LPS-induced inflammation both in vitro and in vivo via an EPCR-dependent mechanism. FVIIa-EPCR-PAR1-mediated anti-inflammatory signaling transmits through the β-arrestin-1-dependent pathway.
RNA-based FLT3-ITD allelic ratio is associated with outcome and ex vivo response to FLT3 inhibitors in pediatric AML
Authors: Cucchi David G. J. , Denys Barbara , Kaspers Gertjan J. L. , Janssen Jeroen J. W. M. , Ossenkoppele Gert J. , de Haas Valérie , Zwaan C. Michel , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry M. , Philippé Jan , Csikós Tamás , Kwidama Zinia , de Moerloose Barbara , de Bont Eveline S. J. M. , Lissenberg-Witte Birgit I. , Zweegman Sonja , Verwer Femke , Vandepoele Karl , Schuurhuis Gerrit Jan , Sonneveld Edwin , Cloos Jacqueline
Published: April 2018

Key Points

FLT3-ITD-AR measurement based on RNA, but not DNA, is predictive for survival with a cutoff point of 0.5. FLT3-ITD-AR is associated with an ex vivo response to FLT3 inhibition with gilteritinib.
Zinc finger–IRF composite elements bound by Ikaros/IRF4 complexes function as gene repression in plasma cell
Authors: Ochiai Kyoko , Kondo Haruka , Okamura Yasunobu , Shima Hiroki , Kurokochi Yuko , Kimura Kazumi , Funayama Ryo , Nagashima Takeshi , Nakayama Keiko , Yui Katsuyuki , Kinoshita Kengo , Igarashi Kazuhiko
Published: April 2018

Key Points

The Ikaros/IRF4 complex represses Ebf1 expression by binding to composite elements within the locus. Ezh2 expression is induced by the Batf/IRF4 complex and the Ebf1-Pax5-Bach2 axis.
Pilot trial of ibrutinib in patients with relapsed or refractory T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Kumar Anita , Vardhana Santosha , Moskowitz Alison J. , Porcu Pierluigi , Dogan Ahmet , Dubovsky Jason A. , Matasar Matthew J. , Zhang Zhigang , Younes Anas , Horwitz Steven M.
Published: April 2018

Key Points

Ibrutinib has limited clinical efficacy in patients with relapsed or refractory peripheral T-cell lymphoma or cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Ibrutinib inhibits ITK.
Performance of InSilicoVA for assigning causes of death to verbal autopsies: multisite validation study using clinical diagnostic gold standards
Authors: Flaxman Abraham D. , Joseph Jonathan C. , Murray Christopher J. L. , Riley Ian Douglas , Lopez Alan D.
Published: April 2018

Background

Recently, a new algorithm for automatic computer certification of verbal autopsy data named InSilicoVA was published. The authors presented their algorithm as a statistical method and assessed its performance using a single set of model predictors and one age group.

Methods

We perform a standard procedure for analyzing the predictive accuracy of verbal autopsy classification methods using the same data and the publicly available implementation of the algorithm released by the authors. We extend the original analysis to include children and neonates, instead of only adults, and test accuracy using different sets of predictors, including the set used in the original paper and a set that matches the released software.

Results

The population-level performance (i.e., predictive accuracy) of the algorithm varied from 2.1 to 37.6% when trained on data preprocessed similarly as in the original study. When trained on data that matched the software default format, the performance ranged from −11.5 to 17.5%. When using the default training data provided, the performance ranged from −59.4 to −38.5%. Overall, the InSilicoVA predictive accuracy was found to be 11.6–8.2 percentage points lower than that of an alternative algorithm. Additionally, the sensitivity for InSilicoVA was consistently lower than that for an alternative diagnostic algorithm (Tariff 2.0), although the specificity was comparable.

Conclusions

The default format and training data provided by the software lead to results that are at best suboptimal, with poor cause-of-death predictive performance. This method is likely to generate erroneous cause of death predictions and, even if properly configured, is not as accurate as alternative automated diagnostic methods.
A minimal markerset for three‐dimensional foot function assessment: measuring navicular drop and drift under dynamic conditions
Authors: Eichelberger Patric , Blasimann Angela , Lutz Nicole , Krause Fabian , Baur Heiner
Published: April 2018

Background

The validity of predicting foot pronation occurring mainly at the midfoot by surrogate measures from the rearfoot, like eversion excursion, is limited. The dynamic navicular mobility in terms of vertical navicular drop (dNDrop) and medial navicular drift (dNDrift) may be regarded as meaningful clinical indicators to represent overall foot function. This study aimed to develop a minimal approach to measure the two parameters and to examine their intra‐ and interday reliability during walking.

Methods

The minimal markerset uses markers at the lateral and medial caput of the 1st and 5th metatarsals, respectively, at the dorsal calcaneus and at the tuberosity of the navicular bone. Dynamic navicular drop and drift were assessed with three‐dimensional motion capture in 21 healthy individuals using a single‐examiner test‐retest study design.

Results

Intra‐ and interday repeatability were 1.1 mm (ICC21 0.97) and 2.3 mm (ICC21 0.87) for dynamic navicular drop and 1.5 mm (ICC21 0.96) and 5.3 mm (ICC21 0.46) for dynamic navicular drift. The contribution of instrumental errors was estimated to 0.25 mm for dynamic navicular drop and 0.86 mm for dynamic navicular drift.

Conclusions

Interday reliability was generally worse than intraday reliability primary due to day‐to‐day variations in movement patterns and the contribution of instrumental errors was below 23% for dynamic navicular drop but reached 57% for dynamic navicular drift. The minimal markerset allows to simply transfer the known concepts of navicular drop and drift from quasi‐static clinical test conditions to functional tasks, which is recommended to more closely relate assessments to the functional behavior of the foot.
Hans Asperger, National Socialism, and “race hygiene” in Nazi-era Vienna
Authors: Czech Herwig
Published: April 2018

Background

Hans Asperger (1906–1980) first designated a group of children with distinct psychological characteristics as ‘autistic psychopaths’ in 1938, several years before Leo Kanner’s famous 1943 paper on autism. In 1944, Asperger published a comprehensive study on the topic (submitted to Vienna University in 1942 as his postdoctoral thesis), which would only find international acknowledgement in the 1980s. From then on, the eponym ‘Asperger’s syndrome’ increasingly gained currency in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the conceptualization of the condition. At the time, the fact that Asperger had spent pivotal years of his career in Nazi Vienna caused some controversy regarding his potential ties to National Socialism and its race hygiene policies. Documentary evidence was scarce, however, and over time a narrative of Asperger as an active opponent of National Socialism took hold. The main goal of this paper is to re-evaluate this narrative, which is based to a large extent on statements made by Asperger himself and on a small segment of his published work.

Methods

Drawing on a vast array of contemporary publications and previously unexplored archival documents (including Asperger’s personnel files and the clinical assessments he wrote on his patients), this paper offers a critical examination of Asperger’s life, politics, and career before and during the Nazi period in Austria.

Results

Asperger managed to accommodate himself to the Nazi regime and was rewarded for his affirmations of loyalty with career opportunities. He joined several organizations affiliated with the NSDAP (although not the Nazi party itself), publicly legitimized race hygiene policies including forced sterilizations and, on several occasions, actively cooperated with the child ‘euthanasia’ program. The language he employed to diagnose his patients was often remarkably harsh (even in comparison with assessments written by the staff at Vienna’s notorious Spiegelgrund ‘euthanasia’ institution), belying the notion that he tried to protect the children under his care by embellishing their diagnoses.

Conclusion

The narrative of Asperger as a principled opponent of National Socialism and a courageous defender of his patients against Nazi ‘euthanasia’ and other race hygiene measures does not hold up in the face of the historical evidence. What emerges is a much more problematic role played by this pioneer of autism research. Future use of the eponym should reflect the troubling context of its origins in Nazi-era Vienna.
3D time-domain airborne electromagnetic inversion based on secondary field finite-volume method
Authors: Ren Xiuyan , Yin Changchun , Macnae James , Liu Yunhe , Zhang Bo
Published: April 2018

We investigate an algorithm for 3D time-domain airborne electromagnetic (AEM) inversion based on the finite-volume (FV) method and direct Gauss-Newton optimization, where we obtain high efficiency by constraining the modeling volume to the AEM volume of influence (VOI) of a 3D source within the earth, rather than using the larger VOI of the AEM system. A half-space or layered earth is used to model the background field in the time domain, taking into account the transmitter waveform through convolution. Assuming that the 3D source of any secondary field detected at a survey point lies within the moving VOI of the airborne system, we conduct time-domain forward modeling and Jacobian calculation using an FV method within the 3D source VOI that requires a small number of cells for discretization. A local mesh and direct solver are shown to further speed up the computation. A synthetic isolated synclinal conductor inversion shows good agreement with the model geometry and provides a good fit to the data contaminated with noise. A synthetic multiple-body model inversion was also quite successful, showing that our algorithm is effective and about four times faster than inversion using the total-field method. Finally, we inverted GEOTEM data over the Lisheen deposit, where our inversion result was consistent with the published geology.
Evaluation of undergraduate psychiatric teaching in Sudan
Authors: Tahir Mohamed El , Elsheikh Abdelghani , Abodoum Abdelrahman , Ahmed Mohamed Hassan
Published: April 2018

Development of an undergraduate psychiatric teaching programme and curriculum is a challenge in the current atmosphere of increasing knowledge and vast literature. However, the curriculum remains the cornerstone for future doctors' development and career. Doctors need to have the abilities to recognise, assess and manage common psychiatric conditions presenting at different levels of health services. This paper aims to look at the current status of psychiatric teaching and evaluate the curricula through interviews with teaching staff, to make appropriate recommendations for the future. Teaching staff and psychiatrists involved in undergraduate teaching were interviewed using a data collection format.
Financial Impact of Breast Cancer in Black Versus White Women
Authors: Wheeler Stephanie B. , Spencer Jennifer C. , Pinheiro Laura C. , Carey Lisa A. , Olshan Andrew F. , Reeder-Hayes Katherine E.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Racial variation in the financial impact of cancer may contribute to observed differences in the use of guideline-recommended treatments. We describe racial differences with regard to the financial impact of breast cancer in a large population-based prospective cohort study.

Methods

The Carolina Breast Cancer Study oversampled black women and women younger than age 50 years with incident breast cancer in North Carolina from 2008 to 2013. Participants provided medical records and data regarding demographics, socioeconomic status, and financial impact of cancer at 5 and 25 months postdiagnosis. We report unadjusted and adjusted financial impact at 25 months postdiagnosis by race.

Results

The sample included 2,494 women who completed follow-up surveys (49% black, 51% white). Since diagnosis, 58% of black women reported any adverse financial impact of cancer ( v 39% of white women; P < .001). In models adjusted for age, stage at diagnosis, and treatment received, black women were more likely to report adverse financial impact attributable to cancer (adjusted risk difference [aRD], +14 percentage points; P < .001), including income loss (aRD, +10 percentage points; P < .001), health care–related financial barriers (aRD, +10 percentage points; P < .001), health care–related transportation barriers (aRD, +10 percentage points; P < .001), job loss (aRD, 6 percentage points; P < .001), and loss of health insurance (aRD, +3 percentage points; P < .001). The effect of race was attenuated when socioeconomic factors were included but remained significant for job loss, transportation barriers, income loss, and overall financial impact.

Conclusion

Compared with white women, black women with breast cancer experience a significantly worse financial impact. Disproportionate financial strain may contribute to higher stress, lower treatment compliance, and worse outcomes by race. Policies that help to limit the effect of cancer-related financial strain are needed.
Smallholder farmers’ perception of climatic and socio-economic factors influencing livelihoods in the transition zone of Ghana
Authors: Derkyi Mercy , Adiku Samuel G.K. , Nelson Valerie , Dovie Benjamin Delali , Codjoe Samuel , Awuah Esi
Published: April 2018

Background:The study analyzed smallholder farmers’ perception with regards to climatic and socio-economic changes influencing their agriculture livelihoods and coping strategies thereof in the transition zone of Ghana.

Methods:We used semi-structured questionnaires for household survey involving 59 households and focus group discussions (n=60) for data collection in three communities.

Results:Farming systems are influenced by high and extreme temperatures, delayed onsets of rain, short raining season as well as unpredictable raining seasons. Similarly, socioeconomic factors affecting the communities and their households’ livelihood included i) bad road network; ii) high prices of farm inputs; iii) prevalent crop pests and diseases and iv) absence of irrigation facilities. It was ascertained that though  most farmers have not made conscious efforts to adapt strategies in their farming system to climate change and the social stressors, as expressed in ‘doing nothing or bearing losses’ and we are at the ‘mercy’ of the weather, there are hidden resilience mechanisms that can be harnessed to strengthen their adaptation capabilities. Women in the study area have adapted to the changes in the weather and safeguarded against post-harvest loss of cassava more effectively as compared to their male counterparts. Similarly, the prevailing group farming and maintenance structure (locally known as ‘Noboa’) strengthen the shared responsibility and reciprocity among migrant’ farmers.

Conclusions:Though these agrarian communities have some coping strategies to overcome some climatic and socioeconomic challenges, their general adaptive capacity in terms of physical, financial and human assets are limited. This, therefore, calls for the capacity building of both men and women on best farming practices, adaptation strategies and piloting of irrigation systems to enhance their major livelihood but these must be complemented with good road network for ease of access to the market centres.
Model framework for governance of genomic research and biobanking in Africa – a content description
Authors: Yakubu Aminu , Tindana Paulina , Matimba Alice , Littler Katherine , Munung Nchangwi Syntia , Madden Ebony , Staunton Ciara , De Vries Jantina
Published: April 2018

Genomic research and biobanking are expanding globally, with a promise to fast-track the research needed to improve approaches to disease treatment and prevention through scientific collaborations such as the Human Heredity and Health in Africa (H3Africa) initiative. Integral to this type of research is the availability of samples and data for research. The need for broad access brings along a host of ethical concerns, including those related to privacy and confidentiality, as well as fairness and equity in access and capacity to utilise these samples between scientists from the high income and low income countries. Addressing these concerns while promoting genomic research, especially in Africa, requires the implementation of a sound governance framework. In this paper, we describe the contents of a Framework for Best Practice for Genomics Research and biobanking in Africa that was developed, under the auspices of the H3Africa initiative. This framework is broad enough to be used and adapted by African countries to facilitate the development of country-specific guidelines and to help improve the conduct and governance of genomics research.
Transgenerational effects of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda: A post-traumatic stress disorder symptom domain analysis
Authors: Rudahindwa Susan , Mutesa Léon , Rutembesa Eugene , Mutabaruka Jean , Qu Annie , Wildman Derek E. , Jansen Stefan , Uddin Monica
Published: April 2018

Background: A number of studies have investigated transgenerational effects of parental post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its repercussions for offspring. Few studies however, have looked at this issue in the African context.

Methods: The present study addresses this gap, utilizing confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), to investigate symptom severity within the three Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV (DSM-IV) PTSD symptom domains in mothers exposed to the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda (n=25) and offspring (n=25), and an ethnically matched control group of mothers (n=25) and offspring (n=25) who were outside of Rwanda during the genocide. All mothers were pregnant during the time of the genocide with the offspring included in the study. Missing data were excluded from the analyses.

Results: We found that among the three symptom domains of PTSD, the re-experiencing symptom domain loaded most strongly onto PTSD among mothers directly exposed to the genocide (Beta = 0.95). In offspring of exposed mothers, however, the three symptom domains of PTSD yielded almost equal loading values (Beta range = 0.84-0.86). Conversely, among non-exposed mothers and their offspring, the hyperarousal symptom domain of PTSD loaded most strongly onto PTSD (Beta = 1.00, Beta = 0.94, respectively). As a secondary analysis, we also explored the relation between DNA methylation in the glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1) locus, an important stress modulating gene, and individual PTSD symptom domains, finding a strong association between DNA methylation and re-experiencing among genocide-exposed mothers that exceeded any other observed associations by approximately two-fold. 

Conclusions: This is the first report, to our knowledge, of a symptom-based analysis of transgenerational transmission of PTSD in Africa. These findings can be leveraged to inform further mechanistic and treatment research for PTSD.
miR-155 induction is a marker of murine norovirus infection but does not contribute to control of replication in vivo
Authors: Thorne Lucy , Lu Jia , Chaudhry Yasmin , Goodfellow Ian
Published: April 2018

Background: Due to their role in fine-tuning cellular protein expression, microRNAs both promote viral replication and contribute to antiviral responses, for a range of viruses. The interactions between norovirus and the microRNA machinery have not yet been studied. Here, we investigated the changes that occur in microRNA expression during murine norovirus (MNV) infection.

Methods: Using RT-qPCR-based arrays, we analysed changes in miRNA expression during infection with the acute strain MNV-1 in two permissive cell lines, a murine macrophage cell line, RAW264.7, and a murine microglial cell line, BV-2. By RT-qPCR, we further confirmed and analysed the changes in miR-155 expression in the infected cell lines, bone-marrow derived macrophage, and tissues harvested from mice infected with the persistent strain MNV-3. Using miR-155 knockout (KO) mice, we investigated whether loss of miR-155 affected viral replication and pathogenesis during persistent MNV-3 infection in vivo and monitored development of a serum IgG response by ELISA.

Results: We identified cell-specific panels of miRNAs whose expression were increased or decreased during infection. Only two miRNAs, miR-687 and miR-155, were induced in both cell lines. miR-155, implicated in innate immunity, was also upregulated in bone-marrow derived macrophage and infected tissues. MNV-3 established a persistent infection in miR-155 knockout (KO) mice, with comparable levels of secreted virus and tissue replication observed as for wildtype mice. However, serum anti-MNV IgG levels were significantly reduced in miR-155 KO mice compared to wildtype mice.

Conclusions: We have identified a panel of miRNAs whose expression changes with MNV infection. miR-155 induction is a marker of MNV infection in vitro and in vivo, however it does not contribute to the control of persistent infections in vivo. This finding suggests that the immune defects associated with miR-155 deletion, such as lower serum IgG levels, are also not important for control of persistent MNV-3 infection.
Operational challenges in conducting a community-based technology-enabled mental health services delivery model for rural India: Experiences from the SMART Mental Health Project
Authors: Maulik Pallab K. , Kallakuri Sudha , Devarapalli Siddhardha
Published: April 2018

Background: There are large gaps in the delivery of mental health care in low- and middle-income countries such as India, and the problems are even more acute in rural settings due to lack of resources, remoteness, and lack of infrastructure, amongst other factors. The Systematic Medical Appraisal Referral and Treatment (SMART) Mental Health Project was conceived as a mental health services delivery model using technology-based solutions for rural India. This paper reports on the operational strategies used to facilitate the implementation of the intervention.

Method: Key components of the SMART Mental Health Project included delivering an anti-stigma campaign, training of primary health workers in screening, diagnosing and managing stress, depression and increased suicide risk and task sharing of responsibilities in delivering care; and using mobile technology based electronic decision support systems to support delivery of algorithm based care for such disorders. The intervention was conducted in 42 villages across two sites in the state of Andhra Pradesh in south India. A pre-post mixed methods evaluation was done, and in this paper operational challenges are reported.

Results: Both quantitative and qualitative results from the evaluation from one site covering about 5000 adults showed that the intervention was feasible and acceptable, and initial results indicated that it was beneficial in increasing access to mental health care and reducing depression and anxiety symptoms. A number of strategies were initiated in response to operational challenges to ensure smoother conduct of the project and facilitated the project to be delivered as envisaged.

Conclusions: The operational strategies initiated for this project were successful in ensuring the delivery of the intervention. Those, coupled with other more systematic processes have informed the researchers to understand key processes that need to be in place to develop a more robust study, that could eventually be scaled up.
Research methods: Clinical studies based on routine laboratory tests
Authors: Yang Shengping , Orellana-Barrios Menfil , Nugent Kenneth
Published: April 2018

Clinical research using routine laboratory tests can provide important opportunities to investigators, especially those with limited resources, and can improve patient care, especially if the result improves clinical decision making without the use of more sophisticated or expensive tests. Laboratory analysis of biological parameters can be used for screening, diagnostic testing, predicting prognosis, and measuring treatment responses. Often the same parameter can be used for several purposes, depending on the clinical scenario and the patient population. For example, several studies have suggested the mean platelet volume (MPV) is different in patients with acute coronary syndrome compared to patients with coronary disease but no acute syndrome. Given this information it might seem relatively easy to start studies using this laboratory test. However, multiple questions need to be considered before starting any research using MPV measurements. We will discuss some of these considerations in this review article. This approach applies to most research projects based on laboratory tests.
Opioids: Government intervention and black markets
Authors: Gilbert Berdine
Published: April 2018

The U.S. is in the midst of an opioid crisis. This crisis is partially responsible for declining life expectancy. The rising mortality in young people 25-44 is partially responsible and is being attributed to opioids. In this article, the formation of black markets in response to government regulation will be examined. We will also examine how the black market changes in character with subsidies. The subsidies available for Medicaid patients can be close to 100%. The subsidy makes it profitable for Medicaid patients to be recruited as a source of supply of opioids. The economics of opioids and their black markets will be explained on the basis of supply and demand. The conclusion is that the type of illicit behavior occurring in the U.S. was both rational and predictable based on the regulation of narcotics, monopoly pricing of certain opioids, and the availability of government subsidies to obtain these opioids.
Post-infectious encephalomyelitis in an orthopedic surgeon with motor and cognitive impairment following Campylobacter gastroenteritis with complete recovery
Authors: Crist Christopher , Hosiriluck Nattamol , Winn Richard
Published: April 2018

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, also known as post-infectious encephalomyelitis, is an acute central nervous system demyelinating disorder which typically follows an autoimmune response secondary to a post-viral infection/syndrome. Although uncommon, the outcome can be devastating; mortality is not high but the morbidity may be catastrophic. Survival is anticipated but return to full function of highly motor skilled and cognitive individuals may not be expected. An orthopedic surgeon developed an acute autoimmune encephalitis presumed to be due to Campylobacter jejuni and despite initial significant cognitive and motor deficits was able to recover fully and ultimately return to his specialty surgical occupation.
Refeeding syndrome: An overlooked condition?
Authors: Vorakunthada Yuttiwat , Laoveeravat Passisd , Vutthikraivit Wasawat , Lilitwat Weerapong , Rakvit Ariwan
Published: April 2018

Refeeding syndrome (RFS) is commonly seen in different settings, particularly in the intensive care unit. However, it is not well recognized due to the lack of a standard definition. In general, hypophosphatemia is considered a diagnostic marker, but hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and shifts in thiamine and trace elements can also occur. Identification of high-risk patients is the key to prevention, especially in malnourished patients. Furthermore, introduction of oral, enteral, or parenteral nutrition in critically ill patients who have not received recent nutrition might lead to RFS. To date, there is no standard feeding protocol to prevent RFS. Therefore, awareness of RFS in high-risk patients, fluid and electrolyte treatment, and daily monitoring of clinical parameters are essential in the management of RFS.
La traduction comme négociation entre traducteur et éditeur
Authors: Paprocka Natalia , Łapiński Paweł
Published: April 2018

Translation as a Negotiation Between Translator and Publisher: Example of the Dystopian Trilogy Méto and Its Polish Translation In the present study, taking the example Yves Grevet’s dystopian trilogy for youth Méto and its Polish translation, we explore the collective and dialogical nature of the translation process and analyse the cooperation between the translator and representatives of the publishing world at the stage of production of the translation. Using ethnographic methods (interviewing, document analysis), we try to answer to the following questions: Who cooperates with the translator at this stage? And how does this cooperation take place? We first present the intermediaries involved in the drafting of the translated text and then go on to observe the negotiations which took place between these agents and the translator about the translation of the names of the characters and the style. The analysed translation project presented a large number of potential risks, which seems to have led to a true cooperation between the agents involved in the process.
Visual Metaphor as an Intersemiotic Translation Technique: the Case of Peter Jackson’s "The Lord of the Rings"
Authors: Stodolna Aleksandra
Published: April 2018

Literature and film, since the birth of the latter, have been developing together and influencing one another. Although incomparable on the constructional level, those two arts are similar in nature. Narrative techniques applied in literature and film are interrelated: they use many similar techniques to tell their stories, but above all, they use similar techniques to evoke emotions in their audience. In their analyses, Film Studies researchers often evoke two basic factors: plot and emotions – these are the bases for comparison between film and literature, for discerning intersemiotic translation techniques, and also the baseline for my short analysis. In this paper, I will start with pointing out a few key issues related to intersemiotic translation in the context briefly discussed above, then pass on to visual metaphor: its structure, types, and possible functions, and finally – to case studies that will illustrate how filmmakers use the visual metaphor in their work: “light is good/dark is evil” metaphor and the case of Sméagol/Gollum’s split personality in The Lord of the Rings trilogy directed by Peter Jackson.
A meeting of minds
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: April 2018

Love them or hate them, meetings have an important role to play in every organisation. Jenny Barber provides advice on how to ensure they are part of effective management by engaging all staff with common goals.
Mineralogical Evolution of the Paleogene Formations in the Kyzyltokoy Basin, Kyrgyzstan: Implications for the Formation of Glauconite
Authors: Bektemirova Tursunai , Bakirov Apas , Hu Ruizhong , He Hongping , Cai Yuanfeng , Tan Wei , Chen Aiqing
Published: April 2018

Although several hypotheses for the formation of glauconite have been proposed, the sedimentary environment and mechanism of glauconitization are still poorly understood. In this contribution, the mineralogy and chemical compositions of sediments from Paleogene formations (Fms) in the Kyzyltokoy basin (Kyrgyzstan) were examined to better understand glauconitization processes. The samples were analyzed using microscopic petrography, X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Interlayered diatomite-argillaceous rocks were newly identified within the diatomites of the Isfara Fm. Glauconite from the Kyzyltokoy basin displayed two stages of maturity: 1) early stage (nascent) glauconite grains composed of ∼3.5% K2O and ~8% FeOT; 2) late-stage (highly evolved) glauconite grains composed of 7–9% K2O and ~27% FeOT. The early stage glauconite grains in the Hanabad Fm green clay (green clay is clay with a greenish color) indicate interruptions in glauconitization processes, whereas the (highly) evolved glauconite grains show a completed glauconitization process along the contact between the Hanabad and Sumsar Fms. Hematite was detected in the red clay (clay with reddish color) of the Sumsar Fm and probably formed by glauconite disintegration. Accordingly, the Paleogene Fms depositional conditions were of three types: 1) beginning of glauconitization with interruptions, 2) completion of glauconitization, and 3) glauconite disintegration. Glauconitization in the Kyzyltokoy basin, thus, likely occurred via a combination of dissolution, precipitation, and recrystallization processes.
Population dynamics of five riverbed breeding bird species on the lower Drava River, NE Slovenia
Authors: Božič Luka , Denac Damijan
Published: April 2018

In 2006–2017, annual censuses of breeding bird species regarded as indicators of natural rivers were carried out on the 38.9 km long lowland stretch of the Drava riverbed between Maribor and Zavrč with altered flow regime due to the operating hydropower plants. Gravel bar habitats were surveyed in four years of the study period by combining orthophoto analysis and analysis of field photographs. Effects of gravel bar management were evaluated based at 20 locations. The Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius occurred on 39.8% of the gravel bars, but most were occupied only in a few years and held just one breeding pair. Low numbers between 2009 and 2012 (< 30 pairs) were followed by a steep population increase from 2014 onwards to a maximum of 66–73 pairs (1.7–1.9 p/km). Such population dynamics was attributed to the lack of large discharges (>500 m3/s) and consequent overgrowing of riverbed in the first part of the study period, while the increase in the second part was due to the creation of extensive shingle areas (from 20,6 ha in 2009/10 to 37,8 ha in 2014) by the extreme flood in early November 2012, subsequent regular occurrence of large discharges outside the breeding seasons and large-scale removals of woody vegetation. Breeding population of Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos remained at a rather similar low level (<20 p) during most of the period studied after an initial decline, and did not reflect changes in the overall surface area of riverbed habitats. Contrary to the general situation, the number of breeding pairs on gravel bars subjected to management increased several-fold. Maximum number of pairs on these bars was reached up to four years after the initiation of management measures, as only then the optimal mosaic of early successional stages interspersed with shingle areas developed at main sites. The species was widespread only on lower part of the Drava. Kingfisher Alcedo atthis was fairly widely distributed along the riverbed, but occurred in rather low densities throughout (c. one pair on 2–3 km of the studied riverbed on average), probably as a result of limited bank erosion and consequent overgrowing/lack of suitable nest sites. The population was estimated as stable with effects of harsh winter conditions on breeding numbers in some years. The majority of nest holes were excavated in eroded river banks along the main river channel (77.8%), followed by similar sites located in mouth areas of small tributaries of the Drava (14.8%). Regular breeding of Sand Martin Riparia riparia since 2012 (up to 259, mostly at only one location annually) was almost exclusively the result of the annual artificial nest site preparation programme. Fairly large gravel bar-breeding population of White Wagtail Motacilla alba, monitored since 2013 and predominantly ground nesting in sparsely vegetated areas, seems unusual considering the prevalent breeding habits of the species at the European scale. Conservation implications and guidelines for future management efforts are discussed.
Environmental characteristics of shallow bottoms used by Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus in a northern Adriatic lagoon
Authors: Scarton Francesco
Published: April 2018

Since the beginning of this century, Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus flocks have been observed regularly when feeding in the large extensions of shallow bottoms in the Lagoon of Venice (NE Italy), the largest lagoon along the Mediterranean. Nowadays thousands of flamingos are present throughout the year. Between 2013 and 2017 I collected data on the environmental features of the shallow bottoms used by feeding flocks, along with measurements of flight initiation distance (FID) of Greater Flamingo in response to the approach of boats and pedestrians. Shallow bottoms were shown to be used when covered with approximately 10 to 60 cm of water. All the feeding sites were in open landscapes, with low occurrence of saltmarshes in a radius of 500 m. The bottoms were barely covered with seagrasses (<4% of the surface around the survey points) and were mostly silty. Feeding flocks were on average 1.2 km far from the nearest road or dyke, while the mean distance from channels that could be used by boats was about 420 m. The mean FID caused by boats or pedestrians was 241 m ± 117 m (N = 31, ± 1 SD) without significant differences between those for the two disturbance sources. The use of shallow bottoms by the Greater Flamingo appears governed primarily by the tidal cycle, but boat disturbance probably modifies this effect. According to FID values, a set-back distance of 465 m is suggested to reduce the disturbance caused by boats and pedestrians to the flamingo feeding flocks.
Results of the January 2017 waterbird census in Slovenia
Authors: Božič Luka
Published: April 2018

In 2017, the International Waterbird Census (IWC) was carried out in Slovenia on January 14 and 15. Waterbirds were counted on all larger rivers, along the entire Slovenian Coastland and on most of the major standing waters in the country. During the census, in which 235 observers took part, 413 sections of the rivers and coastal sea with a total length of 1,427 km and 200 other localities (164 standing waters and 36 streams) were surveyed. The census was characterized by harsh winter conditions and high proportion of frozen water bodies. Altogether, 51,790 waterbirds of 61 species were counted. Thus, the number of waterbirds and the number of species recorded were close to the 21-year average. The highest numbers of waterbirds were counted in the Drava count area, i.e. 20,064 individuals (38.7% of all waterbirds in Slovenia). By far the most numerous species was Mallard Anas platyrhynchos (46.1% of all waterbirds), followed by Coot Fulica atra (6.8% of all waterbirds), Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo (5.9% of all waterbirds), Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus (5.7% of all waterbirds) and Mute Swan Cygnus olor (3.9% of all waterbirds). The number of 1,000 counted individuals was also surpassed by Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis, Teal An. crecca, Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula, White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons, Pygmy Cormorant P. pygmeus and Grey Heron Ardea cinerea. Among the rarer recorded species, the Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis (registered for the first time during the January Waterbird Censuses and only for the third time ever in Slovenia) and Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis (the first probable A category individual for IWC and Slovenia) deserve special mention. Numbers of the following species were the highest so far recorded during the IWC: Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata (together with 2006 and 2012), Pintail An. acuta, Ferruginous Duck Ay. nyroca, Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis (together with 2003), Goosander Mergus merganser, Pygmy Cormorant, Herring Gull L. argentatus and Caspian Gull L. cachinnans. Number of Pochards Ay. ferina was the lowest so far recorded during the IWC.
Profile of Fatty Acids and Spectroscopic Characteristics of Selected Vegetable Oils Extracted by Cold Maceration
Authors: Kachel Magdalena , Matwijczuk Arkadiusz , Przywara Artur , Kraszkiewicz Artur , Koszel Milan
Published: April 2018

Biodiesel has become more attractive material for its properties such as biodegradability, renewability and very low toxicity of its combustion products. A higher quality of this fuel is essential in its potential commercialization. Analytical methods used in biodiesel analysis are constantly refined. The most popular analytical techniques include chromatography and molecular spectroscopy. The ATR-FTIR spectroscopy is one of the most important methods of spectroscopy. This paper presents the results of studies on selected oils of natural origin using ATR-FTIR infrared absorption spectroscopy. Three types of oils from pumpkin seeds and winter rapeseed were analysed. The main fatty acids were also determined in all the samples.
The Skin and the Eye - Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus in a Healthy 18-month-old Toddler
Authors: Komitova Radka T. , Boykinova Oliana B. , Stoyanova Nina S.
Published: April 2018

Herpes zoster, caused by reactivation of varicella-zoster virus, is uncommon in infancy. Even more uncommon is herpes zoster ophthalmicus, defined as herpes zoster of the ophthalmic branch of the fifth cranial nerve. Among healthy children, primary varicella-zoster virus infection during gestation as a result of maternal varicella or the first year of life is the major risk factor for development of herpes zoster in a relatively young age. Here we present an unusual case of herpes zoster ophthalmicus with dissemination in an immunocompetent toddler with favorable outcome. The child’s mother contracted chickenpox in late pregnancy and her son was very likely infected with varicella-zoster virus in utero. During a two-year follow-up the child vision was normal and there was no evidence of post herpetic neuralgia.
On the Concepts and History of Glioblastoma Multiforme - Morphology, Genetics and Epigenetics
Authors: Stoyanov George St. , Dzhenkov Deyan L.
Published: April 2018

Glioblastoma multiforme(GBM) is a grade IV WHO malignant tumor with astrocytic differentiation. As one of the most common clinically diagnosed central nervous system (CNS) oncological entries, there have been a wide variety of historical reports of the description and evolution of ideas regarding these tumors.

The first recorded reports of gliomas were given in British scientific reports, by Berns in 1800 and in 1804 by Abernety, with the first comprehensive histomorphological description being given in 1865 by Rudolf Virchow. In 1926 Percival Bailey and Harvey Cushing gave the base for the modern classification of gliomas. Between 1934 and 1941 the most prolific researcher in glioma research was Hans-Joachim Scherer, who postulated some of the clinico-morphological aspects of GBM. With the introduction of molecular and genetic tests the true multifomity of GBM has been established, with different genotypes bearing the same histomorphological and IHC picture, as well as some of the aspects of gliomagenesis. For a GBM to develop, a specific trigger mutation needs to occur in a GBM stem cell – primary GBM, or a slow aggregation of individual mutations, without a distinct trigger mutation – secondary GBM.

Knowledge of GBM has been closely related to general medical knowledge of the CNS since these malignancies were first described more than 200 years ago. Several great leaps have been made in that time, in the footsteps of both CNS and advancements in general medical knowledge.
Tranexamic Acid in Pertrochanteric Femoral Fracture: Is it a Safe Drug or Not?
Authors: Schiavone Andrea , Bisaccia Michele , Inkov Ivan , Rinonapoli Giuseppe , Manni Mattia , Rollo Giuseppe , Meccariello Luigi , Vicente Cristina Ibáñez , Ceccarini Paolo , Ruggiero Carmelinda , Caraffa Auro
Published: April 2018

Background:There is a high incidence of blood transfusion following hip fractures in elderly patients.

Aim:The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and complications of use of tranexamic acid in proximal femur nailing surgery.

Materials and methods:Our sample group consisted of 90 patients suffering from pertrochanteric fractures surgically treated with osteosynthesis with SupernailGT(LimaCorporate). The classification system AO/OTA was used to divide the fractures into 31A1 (n=45) and 31A2 (n=45). The patients were divided into two groups: 47 patients were administered 15 mg of tranexamic acid per kg (group A) and 43 patients were administered placebo (group B). Blood counts were monitored daily to evaluate the rate of anemia. As a safety criterion, we monitored the possible occurrence of vascular events, symptomatic or not, over the 8 weeks post-surgery. Markers predicting mortality and deep venous thrombosis (DVE) were also monitored (fibrinogen D-dimer).

Results:Blood loss occurring post-surgery can be influenced by numerous factors that are not linked to the use or non-use of tranexamic acid. While closely monitoring hemoglobin levels daily, we observed that 42% of the patients in group A required blood transfusion as opposed to 60% in group B. The results of the markers predicting mortality (alpha1-acid glycoprotein; albumin LDL) and those of DVE were not statistically significant between the two groups in this study (p>0.05).

Conclusion:Based on this study, the use of tranexamic acid was statistically significant in reducing post-surgery blood loss.