bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vivo Wound Healing Response to a Modified Degradable Fibrin Scaffold
Authors: Pandit Abhay S. , Feldman Dale S. , Caulfield James
Published: January 2017

Pooled donor fibrin with an ultimate fibrinogen concentration of 60 mg/ml was used to study its effect on wound healing of surgically created ulcers in a rabbit ear. Water soluble polymer (PEG Mw = 20 KD) beads of 100-150 μm were added (12% by volume) to the fibrinogen to obtain a porous and rough structure. Five 6 mm-diameter ulcers to the depth of bare cartilage were created on each rabbit ear. There were two periods of study (4 and 8 days), with 15 ulcers in each time period, 5 of which were treated with a modified fibrin scaffold, 5 with a non-modified fibrin scaffold, and 5 served as control ulcers. The ulcer sites were subjected to routine histological processing and histomorphometrical quantification. Data analysis revealed significant increases in volume fraction of fibroblast and number of blood vessels in the modified fibrin scaffold treated ulcers over control and non-modified fibrin scaffold treated groups.
The Supreme Court and Evidence Of Discrimination: A Comparison Of Death Penalty and Employment Discrimination Cases
Authors: Rabe Gary A.
Published: January 2017

This paper examines the U.S. Supreme Court's use of social science. The paper begins by tracing the historical use of social science evidence by the Court. The crux of the paper is a comparison of how the Court has used social science evidence in death penalty, death qualified jury cases and employment discrimination cases. The examination reveals that the Court does not consistently rely on or accept social science. Regarding death penalty cases, the Court has consistently elaborated why it should not accept social science evidence that demonstrated the lack of a deterrent value and the inconsistent nature in which the death penalty is sought and applied. This is compared to the relative ease at which the Court accepts social science evidence demonstrating employment discrimination. The paper concluded with a discussion as to why these inconsistencies exist.
The US and UK Labour Markets for New Graduates
Authors: Court Gill
Published: January 2017

The USA has a long history of relatively open access to post-secondary education and in the past has experienced rapid rises in the supply of graduates. In the UK, the higher education system has expanded rapidly in the past five years, and the number of graduates leaving higher education has increased by over 50% in the past decade. At the same time, changing patterns of employment and skills needs perceptions in employing organizations are fundamentally challenging traditional recruitment patterns in both the USA and the UK. The author compares the two countries in this context, drawing some insights, from the longer experience of the USA, into what may occur in the UK and other countries with rapidly expanding higher education systems.
How University Research Benefits the USA
Authors: Baclawski Joseph E.
Published: January 2017

This paper provides brief summaries of the key elements and activities of industry–higher education cooperation in the USA, with specific reference to the experience of the Massachusetts Inistitute of Technology, and concludes with a set of questions regarding its future development.
Modeling clustered binary data with excess zero clusters
Authors: Kwagyan John , Apprey Victor
Published: January 2017

We establish a zero-inflated (random-effects) logistic-Gaussian model for clustered binary data in which members of clusters in one latent class have a zero response with probability one, and members of clusters in a second latent class yield correlated outcomes. Response probabilities in terms of random-effects models are formulated, and maximum marginal likelihood estimation procedures based on Gaussian quadrature are developed. Application to esophageal cancer data in Chinese families is presented.
Evaluation of a Ropes Course Experience for At-Risk Secondary School Students
Authors: Conley Laura , Caldarella Paul , Young Ellie
Published: January 2017

This study evaluated the effects of a one-day ropes course on students' classroom involvement and affiliation. Middle and junior high school students who participated in the ropes course were from classes designed for students at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders. Using the Classroom Environment Scale (CES) Short Form, students evaluated their relationships with peers in their classrooms before and after the ropes course. Small changes in scores were detected using the CES: two classes of students at risk for internalizing behavior problems had a significant increase (p < .05) in feelings of involvement, and the middle school classes (in aggregate) had a statistically significant decrease (p < .05) in their affiliation scores. Responses to an open-ended survey were mostly positive. Further study with larger groups of students and, perhaps, more intense and focused intervention at the ropes course seems warranted.
Increased Enoxaparin Dosing for Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in General Trauma Patients
Authors: Walker Cheri K. , Sandmann Elizabeth A. , Horyna Taylor J. , Gales Mark A.
Published: January 2017

Objective: To review the evidence regarding increased enoxaparin dosing for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in the general trauma patient population. Data Sources: A search of MEDLINE databases (1946 to October 2016) was conducted using the search terms enoxaparin, thromboembolism prophylaxis, venous thromboembolism, trauma, anti-factor Xa, and weight-based dosing. Additional references were identified from a review of literature citations. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Search results were limited to English-language studies conducted in humans. Trials that included only obese patients or nontrauma patients were excluded. Data Synthesis: A total of 7 trials (958 patients) explored the use of increased dosing of enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis in trauma patients. Patients were divided by enoxaparin dosing strategies: standard dosing of 30 mg twice daily (BID; n = 509), higher initial dosing regimen (n = 216), or dosing based on anti-FXa level adjustments (n = 233). The majority of the 42 total VTE events (64.3%) occurred in the standard dosing regimen. Within each group, VTE was reported in 5.3% of patients in the standard dosing group, 3.2% in the higher initial dosing group, and 4% in the anti-FXa adjustment group. Initial subtherapeutic anti-FXa levels occurred in 33% to 92% of standard dose patients and 9% to 39% of higher initial dose patients. The average weight-based dose required to achieve a therapeutic level ranged between 0.43 and 0.54 mg/kg/dose BID. The overall rate of bleeding was low, with 3 incidents (0.37%) reported. Conclusion: Standard-dose enoxaparin prophylaxis may not be optimal for the general trauma patient population. Weight-based enoxaparin dosing (0.5 mg/kg/dose BID) is an option in trauma patients considered to be at a lower risk of bleeding complications.
Intravenous Chlorothiazide Versus Enteral Metolazone to Augment Loop Diuretic Therapy in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Michaud Christopher J. , Mintus Kendall C.
Published: January 2017

Background: In cases of loop diuretic resistance in the intensive care unit (ICU), recommendations for a specific second-line thiazide agent are lacking. Objective: To compare the effects of intravenous chlorothiazide (CTZ) and enteral metolazone (MET) on urine output (UOP) when added to furosemide monotherapy therapy in critically ill adults. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted in the medical, surgical, and cardiothoracic ICUs of a quaternary medical center. The primary outcome was change in UOP induced by the study interventions compared with furosemide alone. Secondary outcomes included onset of diuresis, eventual need for hemodialysis, and incidence of adverse events. Results: A total of 122 patients (58 in CTZ, 64 in MET) were included. When added to furosemide monotherapy, CTZ induced a greater change in UOP at 24 hours compared with MET (2405 vs 1646 mL, respectively; P = 0.01). CTZ also caused a more rapid dieresis: 1463 mL total UOP in the first 6 hours compared with 796 mL in the MET group ( P < 0.01). There were no differences found regarding ICU length of stay, need for renal replacement therapy, or survival to discharge. The CTZ arm required more potassium supplementation to maintain normokalemia (median 100 vs 57 mEq in MET; P = 0.02) and carried a higher cost (mean $97 vs $8, P < 0.01). Conclusion: Both CTZ and MET induced significant increases in UOP. CTZ induced a greater and more rapid change and was associated with higher cost and greater need for potassium replacement. Randomized controlled trials are needed to establish whether a preferable thiazide diuretic exists in this setting.
A Disease Management Program for Home Health Care Patients with Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Laing Glynis , Behrendt Donna
Published: January 2017

This article reviews the design, implementation, and evaluation of a disease management program for home health care patients with the diagnosis of congestive heart failure (CHF), Rationale for the program, programming considerations, and outcome measurements specific for a home care program are discussed. Use of technology to assess patients is reviewed. Program evaluation, areas of concern, and reimbursement issues are examined.
Management Information Systems: A Required Tool for Survival
Authors: Bender Ann
Published: January 2017

Home health care delivery systems face many challenges in today's cost conscious, competitive and managed care environment. As managed care arrangements become more prominent, information technology plays a crucial role in the management of patient care. The service provision of home care providers is being transformed by electronic patient records, information and decision support systems, integrated delivery networks, and Telemedicine. Information technology provides the means to manage the cost, quality, and accessibility of patients' care. Service provision is then able to be managed within the confines of the managed care contract.
Telemedicine in Home Health Care: The Current Status of Practice
Authors: Warner Ilene
Published: January 2017

Telehealth, an application of telemedicine connecting patients with health care providers, has been predicted to have a major impact on the home health care market by the end of this century. Many questions still remain unanswered in terms of patient/provider acceptance, integration with physical visits, and reimbursement issues. This article will examine the current status of telehealth as well as implications for the future.
The Paradox of Federal Infrastructure Programs: Aging Infrastructure and Constrained Budgets
Authors: Lancaster H. Martin , Genega Stanley G.
Published: January 2017

America's future federal public works policies must address the twin realities of falling budgets and rising demand for services from public works infrastructure. Federal domestic discretionary spending—nondefense and nonentitlement funding, including most federal public works programs—is shrinking while physical facilities funded by that spending are growing older. Public managers are thus shifting their focus from building new structures to maintaining old ones and improving service delivery to suit present needs. This article reviews the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' response to these changes, especially the national Operations and Maintenance Program Plan of Improvement and the intergovernmental, Corps-facilitated effort known as the Federal Infrastructure Strategy (FIS) Program. The Corps' response to the new infrastructure policy paradigm is a particularly relevant case study.
Institutional Arrangements in an Age of New Federalism: Public and Private Management in the State Revolving Fund Program
Authors: Morris John C.
Published: January 2017

This article examines the nature and extent of private-sector involvement in the design, implementation, and administration of the State Revolving Fund (SRF) program, an environmental infrastructure financing program. Using data from two 50-state surveys of state SRF coordinators and from case-study interviews with key SRF personnel, the article concludes that (a) the particular state context helps determine the degree to which states must rely on nonpublic sources of expertise in the SRF program, (b) involvement of private-sector actors in the management of public programs serves to further muddle the boundary between the two sectors, (c) the involvement of private-sector personnel in the SRF program raises questions of accountability in the allocation of scarce public resources, and (d) a conceptual framework emphasizing institutional rules offers useful insight into the ways states address the need for expertise in their SRF institutional arrangements.
Does America Really Need More Infrastructure?: Lessons from the Debate About the Role of the Railroads in the Development of the American West
Authors: Gordon Cameron
Published: January 2017

This article compares and contrasts two debates about the role of infrastructure in American economic growth and development. The contemporary policy debate revolves around the extent to which the observed decline in public works investment since 1960, measured as a proportion of gross national product, has been a cause of the coincident decline of productivity over the same period. An earlier debate in the economic history field revolved around whether the railroads were “indispensable” to America's economic growth and how the building of a rail network affected the shape of that growth. The comparison reveals that just as the first debate went down many blind alleys, so did the second one. At the same time, however, after a long period of discussion and gestation, some firm conclusions arose in both controversies. In the infrastructure case, the overall consensus is that America is probably investing enough in infrastructure overall but that the question is too broad to be meaningful for policy makers. As a result, the focus has shifted to specific kinds of investments in specific areas.
Infection-related health care utilization among people with and without multiple sclerosis
Authors: Wijnands José MA , Kingwell Elaine , Zhu Feng , Zhao Yinshan , Fisk John D , Evans Charity , Marrie Ruth Ann , Tremlett Helen
Published: January 2017

Background:

Little is known about infection risk in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective:

We examined infection-related health care utilization in people with and without MS.

Methods:

Using population-based health administrative data from British Columbia, Canada, people with MS were followed from their first demyelinating claim (1996–2013) until death, emigration, or study end (2013). Infection-related hospital, physician, and prescription data of MS cases were compared with sex-, age-, and geographically matched controls using adjusted regression models. Sex and age differences (18–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60+ years) were explored.

Results:

Relative to 35,837 controls, 7179 MS cases were over twice as likely to be hospitalized for infection (adjusted odds ratio: 2.39; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.16–2.65), had 41% more physician visits (adjusted rate ratio (aRR): 1.41; 95% CI: 1.36–1.47), and filled 57% more infection-related prescriptions (aRR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.49–1.65). Utilization was disproportionately higher in MS men than women and was elevated across all ages. MS cases had nearly twice as many physician visits and two to three times more hospitalizations for pneumonia, urinary system infections, and skin infections (aRRs ranged from 1.6 to 3.3) and over twice as many hospitalizations for intestinal infections (aRR = 2.6) and sepsis (aRR = 2.2).

Conclusion:

Infection-related health care utilization was increased in people with MS across all age groups, with a higher burden for men.
Perceived consequences of a successful weight loss: A pluralist qualitative study
Authors: Rosas Raquel , Pimenta Filipa , Maroco João , Leal Isabel
Published: January 2017

Weight loss improves health but little is known regarding how those who achieve feel about it. Aiming to identify positive and negative consequences of a successful weight loss, 30 men and women who achieved a successful weight loss were interviewed. Interviews were analysed (content and thematic analysis). Inter-rater agreement was assessed. With multiple correspondence analysis, a three-factor model explained the associations between categories: (1) personal growth/social adversities, (2) body image/social benefits and (3) physical/emotional well-being. Successful weight loss has positive and negative consequences that need to be addressed; positive aspects (e.g. personal growth) and negative consequences (e.g. relational problems) need to be tackled.
Political Regimes and Stock Market Performance in Africa
Authors: Asongu Simplice A , Nwachukwu Jacinta C
Published: January 2017

This article assesses the effect of political institutions on stock market performance in 14 African countries for which stock market data are available for the period 1990–2010. The estimation technique used is a two-stage least-squares instrumental variable methodology. Political regime channels of democracy, polity and autocracy are instrumented with legal-origins, religious-legacies, income-levels and press-freedom qualities to account for stock market performance dynamics of capitalisation, value traded, turnover and number of listed companies. The findings show that countries with democratic regimes enjoy higher levels of financial market development compared to their counterparts with autocratic inclinations. As a policy implication, the role of sound political institutions has important effects on both the degree of competition for public office and the quality of public offices that favour stock market development on the African continent.
Factor analysis of fatal road traffic crashes with massive casualties in China
Authors: Chen Tao , Zhang Chu , Xu Lifeng
Published: January 2017

Factor analysis refers to a collection of statistical methods for reducing correlational data into a smaller number of dimensions or factors. In this study, factor analysis theory was used to determine the main influential factors of road traffic crashes with massive casualties. Twenty variables related to personnel, vehicles, roads, and environment were collected, and the significance of their correlations was tested for validity. A correlation coefficient matrix R was calculated, and its latent root [Formula: see text] was obtained based on the characteristic equation. A number of common factors were determined according to the value of latent root [Formula: see text]. Factor loading was used to express the relationship of each variable to the underlying main influential factors. An index system of accident factors was developed based on the results of factor loading, and the weight of each factor was calculated to classify the factor influence. The main influential factors of accidents were determined to be fault behavior, driving experience, condition of vehicle safety, purpose of vehicle, road lighting, driver, road surface condition, roadside protection facilities, and road terrain.
Why Teach Applied Sociology? Four Reasons to Consider
Authors: Finkelstein Marv
Published: January 2017

Why teach applied sociology? This paper attempts to answer this question by focusing on a variety of advantages and benefits that an applied approach provides to those who teach in traditional classroom academic settings. The paper begins by drawing on a parable about teaching a teenager to drive and suggesting that learning to drive and learning sociology might have a lot more in common than we might imagine. The issue is placed in the context of current trends in sociology, especially “the scholarship of teaching and learning” and “public sociology.” Four reasons for teaching applied sociology are presented: 1) It promotes more effective teaching and learning. 2) It is grounded in the roots of American sociology. 3) It helps produce change-based research; and 4) Students desire a sociology they can use to engage the world and to help improve it. The paper concludes by arguing that teaching applied sociology provides students better preparation for a rapidly changing global economy.
Other voices? The state of public relations history and historiography: Questions, challenges and limitations of ‘national’ histories and historiographies
Authors: Fitch Kate , L’Etang Jacquie
Published: January 2017

This essay offers an overview of public relations history and historiography, using a review of a recently published book series as a starting point. In offering sometimes previously undocumented national histories and regional and non-US perspectives, National Perspectives on the Development of Public Relations: Other Voices opens up the field. However, the series also raises philosophical and methodological issues regarding the role of history, the positioning of public relations, tensions within the field and public relations’ relationship to societal communication and powerful strategic interests. Scholars have not always grounded their histories within wider historical literature that contextualises the public relations occupation and its role in a particular societal context. We argue that a renewed focus on historiography is needed to better address the influence of US progressivist accounts, the scientisation of western public relations and the narrow confines of the public relations discipline.
Accuracy of line probe assays for the diagnosis of pulmonary and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nathavitharana Ruvandhi R. , Cudahy Patrick G.T , Schumacher Samuel G. , Steingart Karen R. , Pai Madhukar , Denkinger Claudia M.
Published: January 2017

Only 25% of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) cases are currently diagnosed. Line probe assays (LPAs) enable rapid drug-susceptibility testing for rifampicin (RIF) and isoniazid (INH) resistance andMycobacterium tuberculosisdetection. Genotype MTBDRplusV1 was WHO-endorsed in 2008 but newer LPAs have since been developed.

This systematic review evaluated three LPAs: Hain Genotype MTBDRplusV1, MTBDRplusV2 and Nipro NTM+MDRTB. Study quality was assessed with QUADAS-2. Bivariate random-effects meta-analyses were performed for direct and indirect testing. Results for RIF and INH resistance were compared to phenotypic and composite (incorporating sequencing) reference standards.M. tuberculosisdetection results were compared to culture.

74 unique studies were included. For RIF resistance (21 225 samples), pooled sensitivity and specificity (with 95% confidence intervals) were 96.7% (95.6–97.5%) and 98.8% (98.2–99.2%). For INH resistance (20 954 samples), pooled sensitivity and specificity were 90.2% (88.2–91.9%) and 99.2% (98.7–99.5%). Results were similar for direct and indirect testing and across LPAs. Using a composite reference standard, specificity increased marginally. ForM. tuberculosisdetection (3451 samples), pooled sensitivity was 94% (89.4–99.4%) for smear-positive specimens and 44% (20.2–71.7%) for smear-negative specimens.

In patients with pulmonary TB, LPAs have high sensitivity and specificity for RIF resistance and high specificity and good sensitivity for INH resistance. This meta-analysis provides evidence for policy and practice.
Comorbidities in interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Margaritopoulos George A. , Antoniou Katerina M. , Wells Athol U.
Published: January 2017

Fibrosing lung disorders include a large number of diseases with diverse behaviour. Patients can die because of the progression of their illness, remain stable or even improve after appropriate treatment has been instituted. Comorbidities, such as acute and chronic infection, gastro-oesophageal reflux, pulmonary hypertension, lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and obstructive sleep apnoea, can pre-exist or develop at any time during the course of the disease and, if unidentified and untreated, may impair quality of life, impact upon the respiratory status of the patients, and ultimately lead to disease progression and death. Therefore, early identification and accurate treatment of comorbidities is essential.
Association between morning symptoms and physical activity in COPD: a systematic review
Authors: van Buul Amanda R. , Kasteleyn Marise J. , Chavannes Niels H. , Taube Christian
Published: January 2017

Morning symptoms are common in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Many COPD patients consider the morning as the most troublesome part of the day, in which they experience more symptoms and physical activity limitations.

To systematically report evidence of the association between morning symptoms and physical activity in COPD patients, a literature search was conducted using relevant MESH terms and text words in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, COCHRANE, CINAHL and PsycINFO. Quality of the articles was assessed with validated checklists.

Eight studies were included. Morning symptoms were present in 39.8–94.4%. In 37.0–90.6% of all COPD patients, there was an association between physical activity and morning symptoms. However, causality could not be proved. Morning symptoms were associated with a sedentary lifestyle (p<0.05). Treatment in line with the guidelines improved the degree of activity limitations due to morning symptoms (p<0.0001).

Across all disease stages, COPD patients experience morning symptoms which are negatively associated with physical activity. Physicians should consider morning symptoms as a treatment goal. Pharmacotherapy may improve the degree of activity limitations due to morning symptoms. More objective research should focus on symptoms, activity limitations and physical inactivity of COPD patients, especially in the morning.
LABA/LAMA combination in COPD: a meta-analysis on the duration of treatment
Authors: Calzetta Luigino , Rogliani Paola , Ora Josuel , Puxeddu Ermanno , Cazzola Mario , Matera Maria Gabriella
Published: January 2017

When there are no randomised clinical trials directly comparing all relevant treatment options, an indirect treatment comparisonviameta-analysis of the available clinical evidence is an acceptable alternative. However, meta-analyses may be very misleading if not adequately performed. Here, we propose and validate a simple and effective approach to meta-analysis for exploring the effectiveness of long-acting β2-agonist (LABA)/long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) fixed-dose combinations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

14 articles with 20 329 patients (combinations n=9292; monocomponents n=11 037) were included in this study. LABA/LAMA combinations were always more effective than the monocomponents in terms of the improvement in trough forced expiratory volume in 1 s, transition dyspnoea index and St George's Respiratory Questionnaire scores after 3, 6 and 12 months of treatment. No significant publication bias was identified. Significant discrepancies with previous network meta-analyses have been found, with overall differences ranging from 26.7% to 43.3%.

Results from previous network meta-analyses were misleading because no adequate attention was given to formulating the review question, specifying eligibility criteria, correctly identifying studies, collecting appropriate information and deciding what it would be pharmacologically relevant to analyse. The real gradient of effectiveness of LABA/LAMA fixed-dose combinations remains an unmet medical need; however, it can be investigated indirectly using a high-quality meta-analytic approach.
Initial severity of depression and efficacy of cognitive–behavioural therapy: Individual-participant data meta-analysis of pill-placebo-controlled trials
Authors: Furukawa Toshi A. , Weitz Erica S. , Tanaka Shiro , Hollon Steven D. , Hofmann Stefan G. , Andersson Gerhard , Twisk Jos , DeRubeis Robert J. , Dimidjian Sona , Hegerl Ulrich , Mergl Roland , Jarrett Robin B. , Vittengl Jeffrey R. , Watanabe Norio , Cuijpers Pim
Published: January 2017

Background

The influence of baseline severity has been examined for antidepressant medications but has not been studied properly for cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) in comparison with pill placebo.

Aims

To synthesise evidence regarding the influence of initial severity on efficacy of CBT from all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which CBT, in face-to-face individual or group format, was compared with pill-placebo control in adults with major depression.

Method

A systematic review and an individual-participant data meta-analysis using mixed models that included trial effects as random effects. We used multiple imputation to handle missing data.

Results

We identified five RCTs, and we were given access to individual-level data (n= 509) for all five. The analyses revealed that the difference in changes in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression between CBT and pill placebo was not influenced by baseline severity (interactionP= 0.43). Removing the non-significant interaction term from the model, the difference between CBT and pill placebo was a standardised mean difference of −0.22 (95% CI −0.42 to −0.02,P= 0.03,I2= 0%).

Conclusions

Patients suffering from major depression can expect as much benefit from CBT across the wide range of baseline severity. This finding can help inform individualised treatment decisions by patients and their clinicians.
Patient dosimetry audit for establishing local diagnostic reference levels for nuclear medicine CT
Authors: Gardner Matthew , Katsidzira Ngonidzashe M , Ross Erin , Larkin Elizabeth A
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To establish a system for patient dosimetry audit and setting of local diagnostic reference levels (LDRLs) for nuclear medicine (NM) CT.

Methods:

Computed radiological information system (CRIS) data were matched with NM paper records, which provided the body region and dose mode for NMCT carried out at a large UK hospital. It was necessary to divide data in terms of the NM examination type, body region and dose mode. The mean and standard deviation dose–length products (DLPs) for common NMCT examinations were then calculated and compared with the proposed National Diagnostic Reference Levels (NDRLs). Only procedures which have 10 or more patients will be used to suggest LDRLs.

Results:

For most examinations, the mean DLPs do not exceed the proposed NDRLs. The bone single-photon emission CT/CT lumbar spine data clearly show the need to divide data according to the purpose of the scan (dose mode), with mean (±standard error) DLPs ranging from 51 ± 5 mGy cm (low dose) to 1086 ± 124 mGy cm (metal dose).

Conclusion:

A system for NMCT patient dose audit has been developed, but there are non-trivial challenges which make the process labour intensive. These include limited information provided by CRIS downloads, dependence on paper records and limited number of examinations available owing to the need to subdivide data.

Advances in knowledge:

This article demonstrates that a system can be developed for NMCT patient dose audit, but also highlights the challenges associated with such audit, which may not be encountered with more routine audit of radiology CT.
Methodological bases of development young leaders: competence approach
Authors: Басов  , Basov Oleg , Крюкова  , Krukova Nataliya , Малярова  , Malyarova Natalya
Published: January 2017

The authors analyze the methodological bases of identification and development of leadership

competencies youths. The article draws our attention on the tools and methodology of competencies assessment, as

well as on the development of future leaders. Article presents practical aspects of competence approach to

student’s leadership development.
Data Science: needed competences and applications
Authors: Валенсия  , Valensiya Dzhordzh
Published: January 2017

Data science is an interdisciplinary area used to extract, visualize, analyze and generate knowledge from

data. The professionals in this area require a combination of mathematic, statistics, IT-competences in order to

successfully develop data analysis projects where there is a growing demand of data professionals to apply their

knowledge effectively to diverse areas from business to government, academia and non-profit organizations.
The prevalence of biofilms in chronic wounds: a systematic review and meta-analysis of published data
Authors: Malone M. , Bjarnsholt T. , McBain A.J. , James G.A. , Stoodley P. , Leaper D. , Tachi M. , Schultz G. , Swanson T. , Wolcott R.D.
Published: January 2017

The presence of biofilms in chronic non-healing wounds, has been identified through in vitro model and in vivo animal data. However, human chronic wound studies are under-represented and generally report low sample sizes. For this reason we sought to ascertain the prevalence of biofilms in human chronic wounds by undertaking a systematic review and meta-analysis. Our initial search identified 554 studies from the literature databases (Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline). After removal of duplicates, and those not meeting the requirements of inclusion, nine studies involving 185 chronic wounds met the inclusion criteria. Prevalence of biofilms in chronic wounds was 78.2 % (confidence interval [CI 61.6–89, p<0.002]). The results of our meta-analysis support our clinical assumptions that biofilms are ubiquitous in human chronic non-healing wounds.
Indicators of prognosis for admissions from a specialist diabetic foot clinic: a retrospective service improvement exercise
Authors: Essackjee Z. , Gooday C. , Nunney I. , Dhatariya K.
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To look at haematological and biochemical variables as predictors of outcomes in people admitted to hospital with a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) without the use of technology or devices. In particular, to see if there was a relationship between admission blood cell and protein levels, and the likelihood of angioplasty, amputation, and death at one year after admission.

Method:

A five-year retrospective analysis of patients admitted to a tertiary multidisciplinary specialist diabetic foot clinic looking at admission C-reactive protein (CRP), white cell count (WCC), neutrophil count and HbA1c and their relationship to likelihood of angioplasty, minor or major amputation, and death at one year after admission.

Results:

We identified 206 patients, in whom there was 1 year mortality rate of 6.3%. Raised WCC and CRP levels were significantly associated with major amputation (p=0.0035 and p<0.01, respectively). Raised WCC and neutrophil levels and were significantly associated with mortality (p=0.01 and p=0.002, respectively). The need for angioplasty was associated with raised CRP (p<0.05) but not with WCC or neutrophil count. There was no association of risk of minor amputations with admission HbA1c, CRP, WCC and neutrophils. Mean length of hospital stay was 17.5 (standard deviation ±14.0) days.

Conclusion:

Commonly measured haematological and biochemical markers were useful predictors of outcomes for patients admitted to hospital for acute foot wounds. In addition, we found a much lower 1 year mortality and shorter length of hospital stay than previously recorded, possibly due to the introduction of a multidisciplinary weekly ward round.
Theoretical and Spectroscopic investigations of conformations, rotational barriers and scaled vibrations of 2,3-dimethyl hexane
Authors: Aboulmouhajir Aziz , Mouatarif SAID , Hachim Mohiéeddine , El Hamdani Naoual , Chhiba Mostafa
Published: January 2017

The 2,3-dimethyl hexane conformational isomerism has been investigated in detail, based on HF, Post-HF and DFT calculations at different basis set. The effect of size of basis, ZPE, thermal contributions, electronic correlation and optimization methods on the conformational stability was discussed. The rotational barriers from the most stable conformer to the lowest energy secondary conformers and their correspondent inversion barriers at both HF and MP2 methods using 6-31G* basis set have also been approached. A normal mode calculation of the most and less-stable conformers using a scaled ab initio force field in terms of non-redundant local symmetry coordinates have been made to elucidate the conformational dependence of the vibrational spectra.
Probe-Free Digital PCR Quantitative Methodology to Measure Donor-Specific Cell-Free DNA after Solid-Organ Transplantation
Authors: Goh Su Kah , Muralidharan Vijayaragavan , Christophi Christopher , Do Hongdo , Dobrovic Alexander
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND

Donor-specific cell-free DNA (dscfDNA) is increasingly being considered as a noninvasive biomarker to monitor graft health and diagnose graft rejection after solid-organ transplantation. However, current approaches used to measure dscfDNA can be costly and/or laborious. A probe-free droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) methodology using small deletion/insertion polymorphisms (DIPs) was developed to circumvent these limitations without compromising the quantification of dscfDNA. This method was called PHABRE-PCR (Primer to Hybridize across an Allelic BREakpoint-PCR). The strategic placement of one primer to hybridize across an allelic breakpoint ensured highly specific PCR amplification, which then enabled the absolute quantification of donor-specific alleles by probe-free ddPCR.

METHODS

dscfDNA was serially measured in 3 liver transplant recipients. Donor and recipient genomic DNA was first genotyped against a panel of DIPs to identify donor-specific alleles. Alleles that differentiated donor-specific from recipient-specific DNA were then selected to quantify dscfDNA in the recipient plasma.

RESULTS

Lack of amplification of nontargeted alleles confirmed that PHABRE-PCR was highly specific. In recipients who underwent transplantation, dscfDNA was increased at day 3, but decreased and plateaued at a low concentration by 2 weeks in the 2 recipients who did not develop any complications. In the third transplant recipient, a marked increase of dscfDNA coincided with an episode of graft rejection.

CONCLUSIONS

PHABRE-PCR was able to quantify dscfDNA with high analytical specificity and sensitivity. The implementation of a DIP-based approach permits surveillance of dscfDNA as a potential measure of graft health after solid-organ transplantation.
Methodology for Performance Evaluation of Pre Departure Sequencing Tools in terms of A-CDM concept
Authors: Hrabík Hynek , Nesvadba Matěj , Pleninger Stanislav
Published: January 2017

The article describes the proposed methodology for performance evaluation of Pre-Departure Sequencing tools. Pre-departure management delivers optimal traffic flow to the runway by route planning and accurate taxi time forecasts. Firstly, a Pre-Departure Sequencer Start-Up Manager (SUM) used by Air Navigation Services of the Czech Republic (ANS CZ) at Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (LKPR) is mentioned. The main parts deal with the proposed methodology for performance evaluation of Start-Up Manager. The methodology uses several indicators to evaluate the performance. The methodology utilizes time milestones introduced in Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) concept. It focuses especially on aircraft pre-departure sequencing processes. Methodology was tested on the Start-Up Manager used by Air Navigation Services (ANS) of the Czech Republic at Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (LKPR). Achieved performance results and its credibility in accordance with the proposed methodology are presented and discussed in the final part of this paper.
A respiratory‐gated micro‐CT comparison of respiratory patterns in free‐breathing and mechanically ventilated rats
Authors: Ford Nancy L. , McCaig Lynda , Jeklin Andrew , Lewis James F. , Veldhuizen Ruud A. W. , Holdsworth David W. , Drangova Maria
Published: January 2017

In this study, we aim to quantify the differences in lung metrics measured in free‐breathing and mechanically ventilated rodents using respiratory‐gated micro‐computed tomography. Healthy male Sprague‐Dawley rats were anesthetized with ketamine/xylazine and scanned with a retrospective respiratory gating protocol on a GE Locus Ultra micro‐CT scanner. Each animal was scanned while free‐breathing, then intubated and mechanically ventilated (MV) and rescanned with a standard ventilation protocol (56 bpm, 8 mL/kg and PEEP of 5 cm H2O) and again with a ventilation protocol that approximates the free‐breathing parameters (88 bpm, 2.14 mL/kg and PEEP of 2.5 cm H2O). Images were reconstructed representing inspiration and end expiration with 0.15 mm voxel spacing. Image‐based measurements of the lung lengths, airway diameters, lung volume, and air content were compared and used to calculate the functional residual capacity (FRC) and tidal volume. Images acquired during MV appeared darker in the airspaces and the airways appeared larger. Image‐based measurements showed an increase in lung volume and air content during standard MV, for both respiratory phases, compared with matched MV and free‐breathing. Comparisons of the functional metrics showed an increase in FRC for mechanically ventilated rats, but only the standard MV exhibited a significantly higher tidal volume than free‐breathing or matched MV. Although standard mechanical ventilation protocols may be useful in promoting consistent respiratory patterns, the amount of air in the lungs is higher than in free‐breathing animals. Matching the respiratory patterns with the free‐breathing case allowed similar lung morphology and physiology measurements while reducing the variability in the measurements.
On the dehumanizing universe of Henry Miller’s Tropic of Cancer: the code of obscenity and its interaction with other elements
Authors: Duleba Maxim
Published: January 2017

The following article shows why Henry Miller’s novel Tropic of Cancer should not be labelled as a pornographic nor dehumanizing novel through the prism of a scientific and nonsentimental approach. The author of the article argues that even though Henry Miller creates in his novel a certain project of dehumanization, the article explains how usage of poetic language prevents Tropic of Cancer being a sexist insult to woman as often claimed by the feministic discourse of the 1980s and 1990s. Reacting to the popular and standardized interpretational traditions, the article contributes to the discourse about the dehumanizing aspects of Henry Miller’s novel by analysing the code of obscenity present in the materia of literary text. The code of obscenity is put into context with other features of materia of Miller’s text in order to explain how its specific “energy” functions. The author of the article applies the thinking of influential Russian literary scholars such as Mikhail Bakhtin and Yuri Lotman on the autonomous world of a literary text.
Convenient Approach for the One-Pot, Three-Component Synthesis of 1-(Benzothiazolylamino)Methyl-2- Naphthol Using Citric Acid as a Green Catalyst
Authors: Lashkari Mojtaba , Maghsoodlou Malek Taher , Karima Mahsa , Adrom Belgais , Fatahpour Maryam
Published: January 2017

A straightforward, one-pot multicomponent synthesis of 1-(benzothiazolylamino)methyl-2-naphthol derivatives was achieved by condensation of 2-naphthol, aldehydes, and 2- aminobenzothiazole catalyzed by a small amount of citric acid, which acts as a benign enviermentally catalyst. Mild conditions with excellent yields and a simple isolation procedure are noteworthy advantages of this method.
Practical and asymptotic stability of fractional discrete-time scalar systems described by a new model
Authors: Ruszewski Andrzej
Published: January 2017

The stability problems of fractional discrete-time linear scalar systems described by the new model are considered. Using the classical D-partition method, the necessary and sufficient conditions for practical stability and asymptotic stability are given. The considerations are il-lustrated by numerical examples.
An observer-based control of linear systems with uncertain parameters
Authors: Rachik Mostafa , Lhous Mustapha
Published: January 2017

In this paper, the observer-based control for a class of uncertain linear systems is considered. Exponential stabilizability for the system is studied and reduced-order observer is discussed. Numerical examples are given to illustrate obtained results.
Mycobacteriosis in Pigs – An Underrated Threat
Authors: Polaček Vladimir , Aleksić-Kovačević Sanja
Published: January 2017

Although Mycobacterium avium subspecies are generally not considered food pathogens, the infections caused by these particular nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) can represent a serious threat to immunocompromised population. Additionally, infections with a member of Mycobacterium Avium Compex (MAC) can affect the efficiency of BCG vaccines used for the humans. In infected animals, M. avium may be present in different tissues without apparent clinical symptoms and macroscopic lesions. Veterinary meat inspection would then fail to recognize infected animals and such meat and meat products thereof could enter the human diet. The aim of this paper is also to analyze the current control policy in Europe according to infections of pigs with the members of MAC, and point out the risks for public health. By analyzing a large number of meat samples and other dietary nutrients, different groups of authors have provided evidence to support the hypothesis that M. avium is present in the everyday environment. Therefore, food as a source of infection with mycobacteria should not be ignored. The control of mycobacteria requires a better diagnostic approach, having in mind recent positive cases of M. avium subspecies hominissuis (MAH) in an increasing number of exported pigs from EU countries to Serbia. The introduction of reliable diagnostic methods for MAH could result in decreasing the occurrence of infection in pigs, as well as in humans, having in mind that WHO reported 10 million new cases of tuberculosis-mycobacteriosis in the human population in 2015 with 21% of these cases occurring in immunocompromised individuals and children.
The Effect of Carvacrol on Inflammatory Pain and Motor Coordination in Rats
Authors: Milovanović Mirjana , Milosavljević Miloš , Đorđe Marjanović S , Trailović M Saša , Vučinić Marijana , Nedeljković Trailović Jelena , Marković Maja , Đurđević Dragan
Published: January 2017

Carvacrol is a monoterpenic phenol and an active ingredient of the plant essential oils of the family Lamiaceae. We have investigated the analgesic effect of carvacrol, the possible dependence of the effect in relation to animal sex, and the impact of carvacrol on motor coordination in rats. Hyperalgesia was induced by formalin (1.5%), which was administered SC in the upper lip of rat. Hyperalgesia and effects of carvacrol and indomethacin were measured by using the orofacial formalin test. The influence on motor coordination in animals treated with carvacrol was investigated by using the rota-rod test. Carvacrol administered PO in pre-treatment (45 min. prior to formalin) at a single dose of 50, 75 and 100 mg /kg BW, in the male, 50 and 100 mg /kg BW, in female rats caused a dose-dependent antinociceptive effect. This effect of carvacrol was significantly higher (P<0.01, P<0.001) in male rats. Compared with indomethacin administered during pre-treatment (2 mg/kg, PO), carvacrol (100 mg/kg) exhibits significantly higher (P <0.05 and P <0.001) antinociceptive effect on formalininduced hyperalgesia in male rats. In the rota-rod test carvacrol did not disturb the motor coordination in male rats, nor the dose of carvacrol with clear antinociceptive properties exhibited depressive effect on the CNS of treated rats. Keeping in mind that the monoterpene carvacrol is of plant origin, with potentially less side effects and without residues, it is realistic to expect the possibility of its therapeutic use in the treatment of inflammatory pain in animals.