bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physico-Chemical Insights into Gas-Phase and Oxide-Supported Sub-Nanometre AuCu Clusters
Authors: Hussein Heider A. , Gao Mansi , Hou Yiyun , Horswell Sarah L. , Johnston Roy L.
Published: February 2019

Catalysis by AuCu nanoclusters is a promising scientific field. However, our fundamental understanding of the underlying mechanisms of mixing in AuCu clusters at the sub-nanometre scale and their physico-chemical properties in both the gas-phase and on oxide supports is limited. We have identified the global minima of gas-phase and MgO(100)-supported AuCu clusters with 3–10 atoms using the Mexican Enhanced Genetic Algorithm coupled with density functional theory. Au and Cu adatoms and supported dimers have been also simulated at the same level of theory. The most stable composition, as calculated from mixing and binding energies, is obtained when the Cu proportion is close to 50%. The structures of the most stable free AuCu clusters exhibit Cu-core/Au-shell segregation. On the MgO surface however, there is a preference for Cu atoms to lie at the cluster-substrate interface. Due to the interplay between the number of interfacial Cu atoms and surface-induced cluster rearrangement, on the MgO surface 3D structures become more stable than 2D structures. The O-site of MgO surface is found to be the most favourable adsorption site for both metals. All dimers favour vertical (V) configurations on the surface and their adsorption energies are in the order: AuCu < CuCu < AuAu < AuCu (where the underlined atom is bound to the O-site). For both adatoms and AuCu dimers, adsorption via Cu is more favourable than Au-adsorbed configurations, but, this disagrees with the ordering for the pure dimers due to a combination of electron transfer and the metal-on-top effect. Binding energy (and second difference) and HOMO-LUMO gap calculations show that even-atom (even-electron) clusters are more stable than the neighbouring odd-atom (odd- electron) clusters, which is expected for closed- and open-shell systems. Supporting AuCu clusters on the MgO(100) surface decreases the charge transfer between Au and Cu atoms calculated in free clusters. The results of this study may serve as a foundation for designing better AuCu catalysts.
Electrochemical Behavior of Accident Tolerant Fuel Cladding Materials under Simulated Light Water Reactor Conditions
Authors: Rebak Raul B. , Jurewicz Timothy B. , Kim Young-Jin
Published: February 2019

After the Fukushima reactor accidents following Japan's March 2011 tsunami, the U.S. Department of Energy engaged with nuclear fuel vendors to develop improved fuels for the current fleet of light water power reactors. General Electric and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have proposed using iron-chrome-aluminum (FeCrAl) ferritic alloys as cladding material for the existing uranium dioxide fuel (UO2). This is a simple approach that leaves unchanged the present coolable geometry in the reactor. FeCrAl alloys have outstanding resistance, in accident conditions, to attack by superheated steam compared to the current zirconium alloys. Since ferritic FeCrAl alloys have not been used before in nuclear power reactors, extensive characterization has been performed to determine their behavior in light water reactor conditions (e.g., normal operation and accident). The present work deals with the electrochemical behavior of the newer alloys in high-temperature water (near 300°C) containing either excess hydrogen gas or excess oxygen. Results show that chromium-containing ferritic FeCrAl have similar electrochemical high-temperature behavior like other common existing reactor alloys containing chromium for passivation (such as X-750, Alloy 600, and Type 304SS). The use of FeCrAl alloy cladding would also eliminate existing common degradation mechanisms such as shadow corrosion in boiling water reactors.
Use of Standards on Electrochemical Techniques in Establishing Quality Education (QE), Quality Assurance (QA), and Quality Control (QC) Processes in Corrosion Control
Authors: Papavinasam Sankara
Published: February 2019

Most corrosion mechanisms are electrochemical in nature. Therefore, electrochemical techniques are widely used to investigate corrosion and to develop strategies to control it. Many electrochemical techniques are available to measure corrosion in the laboratory and to monitor corrosion in the field, including linear polarization resistance, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, electrochemical noise, multielectrode technique, scanning reference electrode technique, and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance. Several standardization organizations, including ASTM International, International Organization for Standardization, and NACE International have published standards on these techniques. For instance, ASTM International has published 19 standards on electrochemical techniques. These standards are further referenced and used in another 50 standards. These standards are valuable to educate students in academic institutions, to evaluate corrosion behavior of materials and environments to establish their quality, and to ensure that the equipment, instruments, and infrastructure are safe and reliable for continued operation. This paper discusses the advances made in recent years in using electrochemical techniques in quality education, quality assurance, and quality control and proposes additional steps that could be taken to further improve the quality education, quality assurance, and quality control processes.
Investigation of Corrosion Inhibitor Persistency Using Electrochemical Quartz Crystal Nanobalance
Authors: Gunay H. Burak , Salehi Mustafa , Papavinasam Sankara , Obeyesekere Nihal U. , Isgor O. Burkan
Published: February 2019

This paper presents an electrochemical quartz crystal nanobalance (EQCN) and scanning electron microscopy study conducted to better understand the inhibitor film formation and destruction processes in pipelines. The kinetics of the inhibitor film formation and destruction processes were investigated through the laboratory-scale EQCN experiments. The results of this study demonstrate that the EQCN is a promising alternative to the macroscale methods that have been commonly used to study inhibitor persistency. Scanning electron microscopy results show that corrosion of specimens protected with an inhibitor film was due to pitting corrosion mostly concentrated around the flow cell inlet. Specimens on which a protective inhibitor film did not develop exhibited uniform corrosion. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy results show that chlorine accumulation only occurs inside the pits.
Electrochemical Testing of Modular Taper Junctions: Effect of Assembly Force and Head Offset
Authors: Nelson William , Grostefon Justin , Camino Thomas , Hastings Robert
Published: February 2019

Examinations of retrieved orthopedic implants have demonstrated corrosion; however, the extent of corrosion damage can be quite variable. There are a number of factors that may influence this corrosion, including device design and materials, surgical technique, and patient factors such as lifestyle, activity, and comorbidities that affect the local physiological environment around the hip prosthesis. This study evaluated the effect of a number of those factors on the corrosion of the head-stem junction of a modular hip using an electrochemical method. Several groups of head-stem taper coupons were immersed in phosphate-buffered saline and held at a constant anodic potential in an electrochemical cell while being mechanically loaded. Femoral head size, diameter, offset, and assembly force were varied. Incrementally increasing cyclic loads were applied to the femoral head. After the short-term incremental test was completed, some specimens were subjected to a long-term 4-kN cyclic load (R = 0.1) that was applied for 106 cycles. Current was continually monitored, and displacement sensors monitored the relative micromotion of the assembled components. Test specimens assembled with less than 4 kN of load experienced a statistically significant increase in corrosion current during both the short-term and long-term tests compared to specimens assembled with higher loads. The larger +12-mm head offset exhibited a statistically significant increase in corrosion current compared to the +8.5-mm offset in the long-term test when assembled with the 1-kN load. It is recommended that taper assembly force and head offset should be controlled in future corrosion tests of taper junctions. Although there are measurable differences in corrosion current reported in this laboratory experiment, the values for corrosion current have not been correlated with clinical performance or outcomes. This study has shown that assembly technique and head offset are factors that affect corrosion current measured in the laboratory.
CEPRA: A New Test Method for Rebar Corrosion Rate Measurement
Authors: Fahim Andrew , Ghods Pouria , Alizadeh Rouhollah , Salehi Mustafa , Decarufel Sarah
Published: February 2019

The corrosion rate of rebar in concrete traditionally has been determined using polarization methods such as the potentiodynamic technique, galvanostatic pulse technique, potentiostatic pulse technique, and, in some cases, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique in laboratory applications. These techniques are very slow, and all require having an electrical connection to the rebar, which makes them impractical in the field. In this paper, the recently developed technique of Connectionless Electrical Pulse Response Analysis (CEPRA) will be introduced. The CEPRA method, which eliminates the need to have a rebar connection, is based on the concept that the voltage response of the corroding rebar is different from that of the noncorroding rebar once subjected to variable frequencies of an AC current applied on the concrete surface using the four-probe Wenner array configuration. However, direct measurement of the low-frequency impedance of rebar in concrete is very time-consuming and vulnerable to noise interruption; hence, in the CEPRA method, a narrow current pulse is applied for a short period of time (for a couple of seconds). Using the recorded voltage and the applied current, the low-frequency impedance response of rebar in concrete can be extracted, which can be used to determine the state of corrosion in reinforced concrete structures. The details of the CEPRA technique and equivalent electrical circuit models will be discussed in this paper. Laboratory and finite element modeling results will be presented to compare the traditional corrosion rate measurement techniques with the CEPRA method.
Single Synapse Indicators of Impaired Glutamate Clearance Derived from Fast iGluuImaging of Cortical Afferents in the Striatum of Normal and Huntington (Q175) Mice
Authors: Dvorzhak Anton , Helassa Nordine , Török Katalin , Schmitz Dietmar , Grantyn Rosemarie
Published: February 2019

Changes in the balance between glutamate (Glu) release and uptake may stimulate synaptic reorganization and even synapse loss. In the case of neurodegeneration, a mismatch between astroglial Glu uptake and presynaptic Glu release could be detected if both parameters were assessed independently and at a single-synapse level. This has now become possible due to a new imaging assay with the genetically encoded ultrafast Glu sensor iGluu. We report findings from individual corticostriatal synapses in acute slices prepared from mice of either sex that were >1 year of age. Contrasting patterns of short-term plasticity and a size criterion identified two classes of terminals, presumably corresponding to the previously defined IT (intratelencephalic) and PT (pyramidal tract) synapses. The latter exhibited a higher degree of frequency potentiation/residual Glu accumulation and were selected for our first iGluusingle-synapse study in Q175 mice, a model of Huntington's disease (HD). In HD mice, the decay time constant of the perisynaptic Glu concentration (TauD), as an indicator of uptake, and the peak iGluuamplitude, as an indicator of release, were prolonged and reduced, respectively. Treatment of WT preparations with the astrocytic Glu uptake blocker TFB-TBOA (100 nm) mimicked the TauD changes in homozygotes. Considering the largest TauD values encountered in WT, ∼40% of PT synapses tested in Q175 heterozygotes can be classified as dysfunctional. Moreover, HD but not WT synapses exhibited a positive correlation between TauD and the peak amplitude of iGluu. Finally, EAAT2 (excitatory amino acid transport protein 2) immunoreactivity was reduced next to corticostriatal terminals. Thus, astrocytic Glu transport remains a promising target for therapeutic intervention.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAlterations in astrocytic Glu uptake can play a role in synaptic plasticity and neurodegeneration. Until now, the sensitivity of synaptic responses to pharmacological transport block and the resulting activation of NMDA receptors were regarded as reliable evidence for a mismatch between synaptic uptake and release. But the latter parameters are interdependent. Using a new genetically encoded sensor to monitor extracellular glutamate concentration ([Glu]) at individual corticostriatal synapses, we can now quantify the time constant of perisynaptic [Glu] decay (as an indicator of uptake) and the maximal [Glu] elevation next to the active zone (as an indicator of Glu release). The results provide a positive answer to the hitherto unresolved question of whether neurodegeneration (e.g., Huntington's disease) associates with a glutamate uptake deficit at tripartite excitatory synapses.
Wettbewerbsregister und wettbewerbliche Vergaben
Authors: Dreher Meinrad , Engel Lasse
Published: February 2019

Am 29. 7. 2017 ist das Wettbewerbsregistergesetz („Gesetz zur Einrichtung und zum Betrieb eines Registers zum Schutz des Wettbewerbs um öffentliche Aufträge und Konzessionen“ – WRegG v. 18. 7. 2017) in Kraft getreten. Das Gesetz bildet die Rechtsgrundlage für ein zentrales bundeseinheitliches Wettbewerbsregister zum Schutz des Wettbewerbs um öffentliche Aufträge und Konzessionen. Das Register wird beim Bundeskartellamt eingerichtet und als elektronische Datenbank geführt. Durch die Bereitstellung umfassender Informationen erleichtert es öffentlichen Auftraggebern künftig die Prüfung, ob bei einem Bieter Ausschlussgründe nach §§ 123, 124 GWB vorliegen, die sich insbesondere auf kartellrechtlich relevante Sachverhalte beziehen. Die tatsächliche Einführung des Wettbewerbsregisters ist von dem Erlass einer Rechtsverordnung nach § 10 WRegG abhängig, die technische und organisatorische Voraussetzungen sowie das Melde- und Abfrageverfahren näher ausgestaltet. Das Register soll spätestens im Laufe des Jahres 2020 funktionsfähig sein und den Auftraggebern zur Verfügung stehen (RegE WRegG, BT-Drucks. 18/12051, S. 4). Seine Schaffung führt zu zahlreichen neuen Rechtsfragen.
Zur Diskrepanz zwischen gerichtlichen Beweisfragen in Kartellschadenersatzverfahren und den Ergebnissen des ökonomischen „Standardansatzes“ bei statistischen Analysen
Authors: Frank Niels , Inderst Roman , Oldehaver Gunnar
Published: February 2019

Gegenstand dieses Artikels ist die Frage, inwieweit die von ökonomischen Gutachtern und Sachverständigen in der Regel vorgelegten statistisch-ökonometrischen Analysen die möglicherweise vom Gericht gestellten Fragen in Hinblick auf die Wahrscheinlichkeit bestimmter Schadenshöhen bzw. des Schadenseintritts in Follow-on-Klagen beantworten können. Dies dürfte für den üblicherweise verwendeten „Standardansatz“ der frequentistischen Statistik, mit seinem sog. „Punktschätzer“, entsprechenden Signifikanzniveaus und Konfidenzintervallen, häufig nicht der Fall sein. Der vorliegende Artikel macht dies dadurch deutlich, dass die Ergebnisse dieses Ansatzes im Sinne eines einfachen Hypothesentests dargestellt werden, der üblicherweise lediglich testet, ob die Ausgangshypothese („kein Effekt“) mit hinreichender Sicherheit verworfen werden kann. Dabei wird lediglich auf den sog. Fehler 1. Art abgestellt, mit dem fälschlicherweise die Ausgangshypothese verworfen würde. Der Fehler 2. Art, trotz eines Effekts die Ausgangshypothese nicht zu verwerfen, wird in der Regel gar nicht thematisiert. Zudem erlauben weder Signifikanzniveaus noch Konfidenzintervalle Aussagen zur Wahrscheinlichkeit bestimmter Schadenshöhen. Während der Aufsatz sich keineswegs dafür ausspricht, auf die Ergebnisse des „Standardansatzes“ zu verzichten, mahnt er dennoch dazu, diese richtig zu interpretieren und ggf. bereits beim gerichtlichen Beweisbeschluss zu berücksichtigen, welche Aussagen ein Gutachter mittels dieser Methoden überhaupt treffen kann. Abschließend wird kurz auf eine alternative Methode, die der Bayesianischen Statistik, eingegangen.
Preishöhenmissbrauch bei Arzneimitteln
Authors: Schuhmacher Florian , Holzweber Stefan
Published: February 2019

In letzter Zeit sind zahlreiche Fälle hoher Preise und drastischer Preiserhöhungen bei Arzneimitteln bekannt geworden und auch in den Fokus der Wettbewerbsbehörden gerückt. Dabei besteht in Märkten für Arzneimittel naturgemäß ein Spannungsverhältnis zwischen hohen Preisen und Innovationsanreizen. Hohe Preise, die durch neue Arzneimittelprodukte erzielt werden sollen, bewirken einerseits Anreize zur Investition in F&E, andererseits ist aufgrund der geringen Nachfrageelastizität bei zum Teil essentiellen Arzneimitteln die Festsetzung sehr hoher Preise möglich. Diese werden je nach Erstattungssystem von Systemen der gesetzlichen Krankenversicherung übernommen oder direkt den Patienten verrechnet. Die zentrale Herausforderung besteht demnach darin, eine Grenze festzulegen, welche hohe, jedoch kartellrechtlich zulässige Preise von marktmissbräuchlichen Preisen trennt. Schwierigkeiten ergeben sich im pharmazeutischen Bereich allerdings bereits aus der Prüfung der marktbeherrschenden Stellung. Diese wird auf Arzneimittelmärkten nicht unwesentlich durch die Macht am Nachfragemarkt beeinflusst, die sich aus den unterschiedlichen regulatorischen Maßnahmen und der staatlichen Preisfestsetzungen der einzelnen Mitgliedsstaaten ergibt. Die Festlegung der Grenze von zulässigen und gleichzeitig innovationsfördernden Preisen bedarf in diesem Sektor daher der Berücksichtigung mehrerer Faktoren und erfordert eine detaillierte Analyse. Der folgende Beitrag geht diesen Fragen nach und entwickelt im Rahmen von Art. 102 AEUV ein Konzept der Prüfung eines Preishöhenmissbrauchs bei der Festlegung der Abgabepreise durch den Hersteller.
Duration of Initial Empirical Antibiotic Therapy and Outcomes in Very Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Ting Joseph Y. , Roberts Ashley , Sherlock Rebecca , Ojah Cecil , Cieslak Zenon , Dunn Michael , Barrington Keith , Yoon Eugene W. , Shah Prakesh S. ,   on behalf of the Canadian Neonatal Network Investigators
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND:

Overuse of antibiotics can facilitate antibiotic resistance and is associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. We studied the association between duration of antibiotic therapy and short-term outcomes of very low birth weight (VLBW) (<1500 g) infants without culture-proven sepsis.

METHODS:

We included VLBW infants admitted to NICUs in the Canadian Neonatal Network between 2010–2016 who were exposed to antibiotics but did not have culture-proven sepsis in the first week. Antibiotic exposure was calculated as the number of days an infant received antibiotics in the first week of life. Composite primary outcome was defined as mortality or any major morbidity (severe neurologic injury, retinopathy of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitis, chronic lung disease, or hospital-acquired infection).

RESULTS:

Of the 14 207 included infants, 21% (n = 2950), 38% (n = 5401), and 41% (n = 5856) received 0, 1 to 3, and 4 to 7 days of antibiotics, respectively. Antibiotic exposure for 4 to 7 days was associated with higher odds of the composite outcome (adjusted odds ratio 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–1.41). Each additional day of antibiotic use was associated with 4.7% (95% CI 2.6%–6.8%) increased odds of composite outcome and 7.3% (95% CI 3.3%–11.4%) increased odds in VLBW infants at low risk of early-onset sepsis (born via cesarean delivery, without labor and without chorioamnionitis).

CONCLUSIONS:

Prolonged empirical antibiotic exposure within the first week after birth in VLBW infants is associated with increased odds of the composite outcome. This practice is a potential target for antimicrobial stewardship.
Neuroprotection against stroke and encephalopathy after cardiac surgery
Authors: Jovin Daniel G. , Katlaps Karl G. , Ellis Ben K. , Dharmaraj Benita
Published: February 2019

Cerebral ischemia in the perioperative period is a major risk factor for stroke, encephalopathy, and cognitive decline after cardiothoracic surgery. After coronary artery bypass grafting, both stroke and encephalopathy can result in poor patient outcomes and increased mortality. Neuroprotection aims to lessen the severity and occurrence of further injury mediated by stroke and encephalopathy and to aid the recovery of conditions already present. Several pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods of neuroprotection have been investigated in experimental studies and in animal models, and, although some have shown effectiveness in protection of the central nervous system, for most, clinical research is lacking or did not show the expected results. This review summarizes the value and need for neuroprotection in the context of cardiothoracic surgery and examines the use and effectiveness of several agents and methods with an emphasis on clinical trials and clinically relevant neuroprotectants.
Parachute mitral valve assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance
Authors: Casavecchia Grazia , Gravina Matteo , Zicchino Stefano , Capalbo Silvana , Di Biase Matteo , Brunetti Natale Daniele
Published: February 2019

Parachute mitral valve (PMV) is a congenital cardiac malformation where typically all tendons chordae converge and insert into one major papillary muscle. We report the case of 27-year-old man affected by Hodgkin’s lymphoma-mixed cellularity subtype with polychemotherapy treatment and Barrett’s esophagus who came to our attention for routine echocardiographic exam and evaluation of left ventricular function. In the presence of normal left ventricular systolic function and mild-moderate mitral regurgitation, a careful examination of mitral apparatus showed a single papillary muscle suspected for PMV. In the presence of Barrett’s esophagus, the patient was further assessed cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) that confirmed the diagnosis of PMV and excluded other associated congenital anomalies. Despite the rare incidence of PMV and a diagnosis generally based on transesophageal echocardiography, CMR could represent a useful tool, in selected cases, to confirm the diagnosis of PMV, identify other possible congenital anomalies, and assess ventricular and valvular function.
On the use of nominally anhydrous minerals as phenocrysts in volcanic rocks: A review including a case study from the Carpathian–Pannonian Region
Authors: Pálos Zsófia , Kovács István János , Karátson Dávid , Biró Tamás , Sándorné Kovács Judit , Bertalan Éva , Besnyi Anikó , Falus György , Fancsik Tamás , Tribus Martina , Aradi László Előd , Szabó Csaba , Wesztergom Viktor
Published: February 2019

The past decade has seen a great number of studies dealing with magmatic water contents and how these could be retrieved by the nominally anhydrous minerals’ (NAMs) trace structural hydroxyl (water) contents. Constraints have been made to magmatic hygrometry with clinopyroxene and plagioclase. Although results suggest that the method is more flexible and reliable than melt inclusion studies, they also indicate that the trace hydroxyl contents could still be overprinted by syn- and post-eruptive processes. Clinopyroxenes can hold more structural hydroxyl than plagioclases. A comprehensive review is presented with the inclusion of all published results so far to compile the available pieces of information. As a case study, micro-FTIR measurements are made of a representative set of plagioclase phenocrysts from the Börzsöny Mts. (Carpathian–Pannonian Region). The samples were selected to represent the progress of the volcanic activity in time and space, considering the petrologic and geochemical evolution of volcanic products in well-defined volcanostratigraphic positions. The syn- and post-eruptive cooling rate seems to have the greatest effect on water retention. This means that the systematic investigation of water in volcanic phenocrysts can contribute to distinguish the slowly and rapidly cooling parts of the volcanostratigraphic units.
The effect of 8 weeks beta-alanine supplementation and resistance training on maximal-intensity exercise performance adaptations in young males
Authors: Askari F. , Rahmaninia F.
Published: February 2019

Objectives : The aim of this study was to examine the effects of 8 weeks beta-alanine (BA) supplementation with resistance training on some components of physical fitness and body composition in young males. Methods : Twenty healthy young men volunteered to participate for the study and divided into two groups and performed 8-week resistance training while supplementing with either BA or placebo (4.8 g per day). The subjects were evaluated for 1 repetition maximum (1RM) bench press and leg press, vertical jump (VJ), anaerobic power (RAST) prior to and after training intervention. In addition, body composition variables such as percent body fat, and BMI were assessed per and post training period. Results : Both the groups showed significant increases in 1RM bench press and leg press, VJ, and anaerobic power (RAST), and also the BA supplementation group showed greater gains compared with the placebo. In addition, percent body fat decreased significantly in BA and placebo groups, while no statistically significant changes were seen in BMI for the BA supplementation group and placebo group. Conclusions : The results indicated that resistance training improved physical performance and BA supplementation induced greater gains and therefore it could be recommend to coaches and athletes who use this supplementation to greater gains in physical fitness variables.
Second Language Incidental Vocabulary Retention: The Effect of Text and Picture Annotation Types
Authors: Yoshii Makoto , Flaitz Jeffra
Published: February 2019

The present study examines the effect that annotation type has on L2 incidental vocabulary retention in a multimedia reading setting. Three annotation types were compared: text-only, picture-only, and a combination of the two. The participants were 151 adult ESL learners at beginning and intermediate language proficiency levels. The participants read a story for comprehension purposes using the Internet. Three types of instruments were used for vocabulary retention assessment: Picture recognition, Word recognition, and Definition Supply tests. The results ANOVA analyses indicate that the Combination group (annotations with text and picture) outperformed the Text-only and Picture-only groups on the immediate tests. The Combination group also outperformed the other two groups on the delayed tests, however, the differences were smaller than those for the immediate tests. There was no significant interaction between annotation type and proficiency level for either the immediate or the delayed tests. Repeated measure ANOVAs revealed no significant differences among the groups in the rate of change between the immediate test scores and delayed test scores. The participants’ scores on the delayed tests, regardless of the group to which they were assigned, declined equally from those of the immediate tests.
Health literacy and adherence to drug treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Rocha Mariana Rodrigues da , Santos Sinderlândia Domingas dos , Moura Karine Rafaela de , Carvalho Lesliane de Sousa , Moura Ionara Holanda de , Silva Ana Roberta Vilarouca da
Published: February 2019

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the relationship between health literacy and medication adherence of patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Method: Quantitative cross-sectional study developed in five Family Health Strategies in the city of Picos, Piauí. Participants comprised 78 users of health services. The “Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults” and the “Treatment Adherence Measurement Test” forms were applied to obtain sociodemographic variables. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. Results: Regarding health literacy, 51.3% of the participants were considered inadequate, and 87.2% were adherent to the drug treatment. The average of health literacy varied according to the level of medication adherence and sociodemographic variables. Conclusion: Most patients reported to adhere to the medication. Implications for practice: This study identified the health literacy and medication adherence profile of the patients, thus subsidizing the planning of nursing interventions in the attention of diabetes mellitus.
Hematologic Complications of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Davis Elizabeth J. , Salem Joe-Elie , Young Arissa , Green Jennifer R. , Ferrell P. Brent , Ancell Kristin K. , Lebrun-Vignes Benedicte , Moslehi Javid J. , Johnson Douglas B.
Published: February 2019

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have improved outcomes for patients with numerous hematological and solid cancers. Hematologic toxicities have been described, but the spectrum, timing, and clinical presentation of these complications are not well understood. We used the World Health Organization's pharmacovigilance database of individual-case-safety-reports (ICSRs) of adverse drug reactions, VigiBase, to identify cases of hematologic toxicities complicating immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. We identified 168 ICSRs of immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), hemolytic anemia (HA), hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, aplastic anemia, and pure red cell aplasia in 164 ICSRs. ITP (n = 68) and HA (n = 57) were the most common of these toxicities and occurred concomitantly in four patients. These events occurred early on treatment (median 40 days) and were associated with fatal outcome in 12% of cases. Ipilimumab-based therapy (monotherapy or combination with anti-programmed death-1 [PD-1]) was associated with earlier onset (median 23 vs. 47.5 days, p = .006) than anti-PD-1/programmed death ligand-1 monotherapy. Reporting of hematologic toxicities has increased over the past 2 years (98 cases between January 2017 and March 2018 vs. 70 cases before 2017), possibly because of increased use of checkpoint inhibitors and improved recognition of toxicities. Future studies should evaluate incidence of hematologic toxicities, elucidate risk factors, and determine the most effective treatment algorithms.

Key Points

Immune-mediated hematologic toxicities are a potential side effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Providers should monitor complete blood counts during treatment with ICIs. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment for immune-mediated hematologic toxicities. Further research is needed to define patient-specific risk factors and optimal management strategies for hematologic toxicities.
The Role of Radiation Oncology in Immuno-Oncology
Authors: Meng Xiangjiao , Feng Rui , Yang Lian , Xing Ligang , Yu Jinming
Published: February 2019

Despite the promising efficacy of immunotherapy in some patients, many other patients are resistant. The synergistic effect of radiotherapy (RT) in combination with immunotherapy reported in case reports and clinical trials has piqued the interest of radiologists in investigating the underlying mechanisms and efficacy of the combination in preclinical and clinical trials. To date, the reported data are limited to small-sized samples, trials lacking a comparison arm, and trials using diverse immunotherapies, various radiation doses, and fractionations. There are just a few studies comparing the efficacy of immunotherapy and radiotherapy to that of conventional therapies or different combinations. Radiologists should design and conduct clinical trials wisely to confirm the efficacy of the combination, particularly the abscopal effect, identify the best combination of various immunotherapeutic drugs and different radiation models for patients, identify the best sequence of the combination, determine the optimal timing of the combination, select the target site and volume, lower adverse effects, and explore predictive models to identify patients who may benefit from the combination therapy. We expect that these clinical trials performed by radiologists will offer definitive evidence for the wide use of the combination of RT and immunotherapy in clinical practice.
Un viaje al país del rey Morvan: cómo adquirir la competencia cultural
Authors: Pérez Fernández Lucila María , Alonso-Campo María Araceli
Published: February 2019

El viaje se ha adoptado como una actividad académica en muchas Universidades. Sin embargo, su potencial como herramienta didáctica todavía no se ha explotado al máximo. Así pues, el presente trabajo se centra en el estudio del viaje como herramienta educativa para la adquisición de la competencia cultural en estudiantes universitarios de Traducción e Interpretación. Para ello nos basamos en dos metodologías principales: el aprendizaje experiencial y el aprendizaje colaborativo. Así pues, ofrecemos al alumnado una guía de actividades que deberán completar durante su estancia en el país extranjero incitándolos a reflexionar sobre las mismas y al intercambio de ideas con otros compañeros que estén viviendo una experiencia similar en el extranjero. De este modo, el viaje se erige en una valiosa herramienta que permite aunar las diferentes competencias necesarias para la labor de todo traductor.
The traditions and tasks of the Ukrainian American Studies: «Ukraine and the USA: the experience and prospects of cooperation». The second international scientific conference
Authors: Mashevskyi Oleg
Published: February 2019

The cooperation of the Ukrainian state with the most influential international actors, as well as the maintenance of good stable partner relations therewith guarantees the successful integration of Ukraine to the global community in this day and age. Therefore developing relations between Ukraine and the USA as with the single superpower is a crucial component of the integration process. Holding conferences, seminars and the expert meetings is extremely essential in investigating and studying the American history, economy and social life. In this respect, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv remains the standard-bearer.

The article analyses the work of the Second International Scientific Conference “Ukraine and the USA: the experience and Prospects of Cooperation” dedicated to the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and the United States which took place on November, 23 2017 and was backed by the Modern and Contemporary History Department (History Department, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv).

The general session was opened by Oleg Mashevskiy, the convenor, PhD (history), professor, head of the Modern and Contemporary History Department. He as well presented the third volume of the specialized scientific “The American History and Politics”. The openings remarks were made by the dean of the History Department (Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv), PhD (history), Ivan Patryliak. The latter outlined the scientific importance of the event and of the subject thereof. The representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Maksym Kravchuk, the co-organizer of the conference, head of the Kyiv Office of Kennan Institute Kateryna Smagliy and the Chairman of the Board of the National Sikorski Center Charity Fund Viktor Yagun delivered challenging and thoughtful speeches.

In his speech, Makar Taran, the Chairman of the Board of the Ukrainian American Studies Association Public Organization (the originator and one of the organizers of the event), underlined the rising influence of the NGOs within the framework of the Ukrainian-American relations.

The scientific discussions then moved on within the conference sections. The latter were respectively divided into those on the Ukrainian-American relations, the foreign policy of the USA, the contemporary American society, the Ukrainian expat community in the USA etc.

Over 190 key American studies specialists (scholars, experts, diplomats, servicemen, public persons and statesmen) partook in the conference.
INTERNATIONAL MARKET EXPANSION
Authors: Volodin Yu. V. , Podkovyrov P. A.
Published: February 2019

In article various theoretical aspects of an exit of the companies on the foreign markets are considered. Influence of globalization on productivity of the companies is considered, ways and factors of a choice of strategy of an exit to the world market are analysed. The behavioural and cultural aspects influencing strategy of an exit to the world market are analysed. The analysis of strategy of the companies which have entered the foreign markets, is carried out taking into account the previous researches in this area.The following conclusions became result of research: 1) globalization positively influences the companies as the market increases, however the small companies and the companies in emerging markets lose in competitive fight; 2) the companies with considerable experience are inclined to choose strategy of opening of own enterprise while the organizations without similar experience prefer export or joint venture in the host country territory; 3) the strategy choice with a bigger involvement of resources is directly proportional to knowledge of culture of the country to which there is a company. At entry into the market with other culture smooth adaptation is necessary for successful realization of strategy. At last, people are inclined to make behavioural mistakes, and knowledge of them and continuous control will help to achieve successful results; 4) for an exit and successful work in the foreign markets of the company important not only to possess competences, but also to be able to protect them and to keep in time; 5) on the market with high political and investment risks, and also adverse economic conditions of the company are inclined to choose strategy with the minimum investment of money (franchizes, licensing).
OPERATING EXPENSES FOR LARGE AMERICAN AIR CARRIERS
Authors: Manvelidze A. B.
Published: February 2019

Indicators of prime cost and profitability of passenger traffic on the example of statistics of American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines. Initial information for researches is accepted according to the financial and statistical analysis of airlines of the. Indicators of cost of transportations and profitability during noticeable reduction of prices of aviation fuel in 2014-2016 are compared. The main attention is paid to the analysis of fleet (park) of planes and changesin separate items of expenditure. The algorithm of calculation of cost of transportations on types of planes according to the statistical account is offered. In calculations it is considered that in air-transport branch of the USA statistical account of factor flight cost on the aerial vehicle types is kept. The share of factor flight cost makes to 50%. Indirect expenses are distributed by a settlement way. Prime cost a chair kilometer on straight lines and indirect items of expenditure of narrow-body planes 737-800/900 and A319/320/321 at range of 2000 km makes from 8,8 to 11 cents. On the ranges, over 2000 km, prime cost decreases to 7,7–8,3 cents.Prime cost a chair kilometer of planes 757-200/300, and widebody 767-300, 777-300, A330-200/300 at range of 3000–5000 km by calculation makes 6,8–7,8 cents for a chair km. Prime cost at ranges over 6000 km makes a chair kilometer of widebody planes 777-200/300, 787-800/900, A330-200/300 from 6,0 to 6,7 cent for a chair km
Binary Boys: Autism, Aspie Supremacy and Post/Humanist Normativity
Authors: De Hooge Anna N.
Published: February 2019

Employing an epistemology of situated knowledges, I analyze Aspie (from: Asperger's) supremacy. This ideology consists of an interplay between anti-autistic ableism, and the frame of the Aspie subject as superior, both to other autistics and to non-autistics. This superiority is defined in terms of whiteness, masculinity and economic worthiness. I link this ideology to recent research into the collaboration of Hans Asperger with a Nazi program that involved the killing of disabled individuals. I also discuss contemporary (media) manifestations of Aspie supremacy. Furthermore, I draw a parallel between this ideology and a Lyotardian postmodernism. This type of postmodernism has been criticized for its inability to justify itself on its own terms. Through analyzing Aspie supremacy, I work through this paradox, as it relates to posthumanism.
An occupational health survey of sewage treatment plant workers of Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka
Authors: Haleema Mubeena , Bhargava Madhavi , Nirgude Abhay S. , . Irfan
Published: February 2019

Background: Sanitation workers are at a risk of exposure to various health hazards which are preventable. The present study aimed at assessing the health status of sewage treatment plant (STP) workers, their respiratory morbidity and onsite assessment of their occupational safety.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in a single STP during June-July months of 2017. A total of 32 employees were enrolled in the study. Data collection was done using a questionnaire, clinical examination and onsite assessment for occupational safety. The questionnaire included demographic details, clinical symptoms and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Clinical examination with special focus on respiratory system and portable spirometry was conducted followed by health education on workplace safety. Descriptive statistics were reported as mean and standard deviation for continuous variables and frequency and proportion for categorical variable.Results: None of the workers underwent pre-placement health check-up and routine health check-ups at regular interval. PPE were available in adequate number. Spirometry revealed 12 workers having forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) within normal limits and seven workers with mild restriction. Early small airway obstruction was found in six workers. Regarding the on-site safety, an absence of barricades at two places near anaerobic sludge reactor and clarifier tank was of concern.Conclusions: The workers in STP are at risk of respiratory occupational hazards and should undergo pre-placement and routine health check-up for prevention of occupational hazards. Physical safety in terms of barricades at appropriate sites also needs attention.
A retrospective study on palmoplantar psoriasis and its associations in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Perumal Saradha K. , Gopinath Sudha R.
Published: February 2019

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic immune mediated inflammatory condition of the skin. Palmoplantar psoriasis (PPP) is a clinical variant of plaque psoriasis affecting palms and soles extending to the wrist and the margins of the soles and heels. This study was done to find out the prevalence of palmoplantar psoriasis in our setting. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence, demographic features and other co-morbidities of the palmoplantar plaque psoriasis in a tertiary care centre.

Methods: We conducted retrospective study for a period of one year (January 2017 to December 2017) on palmoplantar plaque psoriasis patients attending the dermatology OPD.

Results: Among 552 enrolled psoriasis patients, 85 were clinically diagnosed to have palmoplantar psoriasis. The mean age of the patient was 45 years. Most of them belong to 4th, 5th and 6th decade of life. The male to female ratio was 1:2.26. The duration of the disease was more than one year in 73% of patients at the study time. Occupation of the patients included house-wives (50%), manual labourers (36%) and office goers, (13%). Hyperkeratotic plaque type psoriasis with scaling and fissures was the predominant morphological pattern recorded. Dyslipidemia (22%), overweight and obesity (56%), hypothyroidism (6%) and diabetes mellitus (12%) were the observed co-morbidities in this study.

Conclusions: The prevalence of palmoplantar psoriasis (0.09%) was low in our study. Palmoplantar psoriasis affected middle aged adults and had a female predominance in this study. Overweight, obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus and hypothyroidism were the co-morbid conditions observed in this study. Being a relapsing and chronic condition the disease poses a poor quality of life than plaque type psoriasis.
Genistein modulates gene activity in psoriatic patients
Authors: Smolińska Elwira , Węgrzyn Grzegorz , Gabig-Cimińska Magdalena
Published: February 2019

Despite the impressive advancements in the treatment of psoriasis over the past two decades, there is still a need for further improvement. As previously shown in the literature, genistein (5,7-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chromen-4-one), naturally occurring plant compound displays multidirectional action, also in relation to alleviating psoriasis symptoms. In this work we focused our attention on genistein impact on expression of genes when treating moderate-to-severe psoriasis patients. Testing the effects of this isoflavone on transcript levels in both skin specimens and peripheral blood cells of four psoriatic subjects, we found that this compound modulated activities of genes coding for anti-psoriatic members and anti-inflammatory mediators of inflammation. It impairs the activity of certain genes which are overexpressed in psoriasis, while stimulating the expression of other transcripts that are repressed in dermatosis.
Algunas tendencias importantes del enfoque narrativo en educación superior en el área francófona
Authors: Siciliani Barraza José María , Barrios Tado Hernando , Bonilla Barrios Bibiana
Published: February 2019

This paper reviews some of the theoretical trends that support the use of the narrative approach in higher education in French-speaking areas. This review is done from a geographical perspective, and therefore some cases from francophone countries are studied. The main objective of the review is to highlight and group some of the main theories supporting the use of the narrative approach in university education and the major problems or theoretical challenges that this approach faces in higher education. This geographic-linguistic area will be studied taking into account the epistemological and the pedagogical aspects
Comunicación educativa en clases de educación física de una escuela del estado de São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Lopes da Silva Cinthia , Ferrés Prats Joan
Published: February 2019

This work aims to analyze the effectiveness of a pedagogical proposal based on educative communication studies (neuroscience) in a physical education course. The research is qualitative, i.e., is conducted as a pedagogical experience using questionnaires to evaluate the classes, including 20 students at a public school in São Paulo State. They were 13 and 14 years old. As a result, students showed new bodily skills they learnt in the context of superhero comics and showed a critical ability to identify from the comics the imperialism of the American culture