bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crk Adaptor Proteins Regulate NK Cell Expansion and Differentiation during Mouse Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Nabekura Tsukasa , Chen Zhiying , Schroeder Casey , Park Taeju , Vivier Eric , Lanier Lewis L. , Liu Dongfang
Published: April 2018

Natural killer cells are critical in the immune response to infection and malignancy. Prior studies have demonstrated that Crk family proteins can influence cell apoptosis, proliferation, and cell transformation. In this study, we investigated the role of Crk family proteins in mouse NK cell differentiation and host defense using a mouse CMV infection model. The number of NK cells, maturational state, and the majority of the NKR repertoire was similar in Crk x Crk-like (CrkL)–double-deficient and wild type NK cells. However, Crk family proteins were required for optimal activation, IFN-γ production, expansion, and differentiation of Ly49H+ NK cells, as well as host defense during mouse CMV infection. The diminished function of Crk x CrkL–double-deficient NK cells correlated with decreased phosphorylation of STAT4 and STAT1 in response to IL-12 and IFN-α stimulation, respectively. Together, our findings analyzing NK cell–specific Crk-deficient mice provide insights into the role of Crk family proteins in NK cell function and host defense.
D-band Waveguide Transition Based on Linearly Tapered Slot Antenna
Authors: Hassona Ahmed , He Zhongxia Simon , Vassilev Vessen , Zirath Herbert
Published: April 2018

In this work, an on-chip Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) to waveguide transition is realized based on Linearly Tapered Slot antenna (LTSA) structure. The antenna is implemented on a 50-um-thick Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) substrate and placed in the E-plane of an air-filled D-band waveguide. The transition shows a maximum insertion loss of 1 dB across the frequency range 110–170 GHz. The average return loss of the transition is −15 dB and the minimum is −9 dB. The structure occupies an area of 0.82×0.6 mm2. The transition provides low-loss wide-band connectivity for millimeter-wave systems and addresses integration challenges facing systems operating beyond 100 GHz.
An FPGA-based monitoring system for reliability analysis
Authors: Johansson Christian , Arwidson Jonas , Månefjord Torbjörn
Published: April 2018

Electronics density continue to increase which impacts the power density and thermal hot spots on the printed circuit boards. The reliability and prediction of the electronics failure rate is often related to the thermal stress induced during different operating conditions at the board. To get information about the environmental conditions and to assist in the prediction of a product's failure rate a monitoring system could be used. This paper presents a temperature monitoring function implemented in an FPGA using VHDL. The proposed system is composed of a number of temperature sensors together with a non-volatile MRAM memory for long-term storage. The solution offers a flexible system that could be scaled to an arbitrary number of sensors and be adapted to any FPGA or processor technology. To verify the concept, a climate chamber was used to simulate a number of different environmental settings followed by a reading of the data logged.
Neurologic complications in common wrist and hand surgical procedures
Authors: Verdecchia Nicole , Johnson Julie , Baratz Mark , Orebaugh Steven
Published: April 2018

Nerve dysfunction after upper extremity orthopedic surgery is a recognized complication, and may result from a variety of different causes. Hand and wrist surgery require incisions and retraction that necessarily border on small peripheral nerves, which may be difficult to identify and protect with absolute certainty. This article reviews the rates and ranges of reported nerve dysfunction with respect to common surgical interventions for the distal upper extremity, including wrist arthroplasty, wrist arthrodesis, wrist arthroscopy, distal radius open reduction and internal fixation,carpal tunnel release, and thumb carpometacarpal surgery. A relatively large range of neurologic complications is reported, however many of the studies cited involve relatively small numbers of patients, and only rarely are neurologic complications included as primary outcome measures. Knowledge of these neurologic outcomes should help the surgeon to better counsel patients with regard to perioperative risk, as well as provide insight into workup and management of any adverse neurologic outcomes that may arise.
Dynamic stabilization for degenerative diseases in the lumbar spine: 2 years results
Authors: Khalifa Ahmed Hosny , Stübig Timo , Meier Oliver , Müller Christian Walter
Published: April 2018

Following lumbar fusion, adjacent segment degeneration has been frequently reported. Dynamic systems are believed to reduce main fusion drawbacks. We conducted a retrospective study on patients with degenerative lumbar disease treated with posterior dynamic stabilization with monoaxial hinged pedicular screws and lumbar decompression. VAS and ODI were used to compare clinical outcomes. As radiological outcomes, LL and SVA were used. 51 patients were included with an average follow-up of 24 months. 13 patients were revised because of postoperative radiculopathy (n=4), subcutaneous hematoma(n=2), L5 screw malposition (n=1) and adjacent segment disease (n=6). The mean ODI score 41 preoperatively compared to 36 postoperatively. The mean VAS scores for back and leg pain were 5.3 and 4.2, respectively compared to 4.5 and 4.0 post-operatively. The mean SVA was 5.3 cm pre-operatively, and 5.7 cm postoperatively. The mean LL was 47.5° preoperatively and 45.5° postoperatively. From our data, whichfail to show significant improvements andreflect a high revision rate, we cannot generally recommend dynamic stabilization as an alternative to fusion. Comparative trials with longer follow-ups are required.
Role stress and turnover intentions among information technology personnel in South Africa: The role of supervisor support
Authors: Naidoo Rennie
Published: April 2018

Orientation: High turnover of information technology (IT) personnel is a major problem facing many global and local organisations. An increasingly important area of turnover research of IT personnel experiencing role stress involves examining their perceptions of supervisor support.Research purpose: This study aimed to examine the effects of role-related stress and supervisor support on job satisfaction, job performance and IT turnover intentions.Motivations for the study: It is important to assess from both a theoretical and a practical perspective the extent to which turnover can be explained by relational factors such as supervisor support.Research design, approach and method: An online voluntary survey yielded a sample of 163 respondents. Six constructs were measured: turnover intention, job performance, job satisfaction, supervisor support, role ambiguity and role conflict. A total of 158 usable responses were subjected to descriptive, correlation and regression analysis. Mediation and moderation effects were assessed using a multiple regression bootstrapping procedure.Main findings: Role ambiguity has a greater impact on job satisfaction than role conflict. Job satisfaction fully mediated the relationship between role stress and turnover intention. Supervisor support mediated the relationship between role stressors and job satisfaction and role stressors and job performance. There was no evidence in favour of a moderating role of supervisor support.Practical and managerial implications: Higher priority should be given to tackling role ambiguity. Supervisor support can increase job satisfaction, improve job performance and ultimately reduce turnover intentions, despite the presence of role stress.Contribution or value-add: Human resource managers and IT managers could use these results to improve job performance and staff retention.
Etude d’une souche de virus responsable d’une leucopénie du chat
Authors: Giauffret A. , Etasse Ch. , Garin R.
Published: April 2018

Un virus responsable d’une leucopénie du chat a été caractérisé in vivo et in vitro. La maladie expérimentale obtenue chez de jeunes chats comporte une incubation de 5 à 7 jours et une évolution suraiguë accompagnée d’une leucopénie marquée. La mort des animaux inoculés se produit 24 à 48 h après l’apparition des premiers signes. En cultures cellulaires de rein de chat, le virus entraîne la formation d’inclusions nucléaires basophiles caractéristiques, sans modification de l’aspect des cellules à l’examen direct. Des virions parasphériques de 20 à 25 mµ de diamètre ont été mis en évidence en microscopie électronique.
The role of transdermal compounding in opioid safety
Authors: Bucher, PharmD Caitlin V. , Day, PharmD A.J. , Carvalho, PhD Maria
Published: April 2018

Since the number of prescriptions for opioid medications have continued to rise, there have been questions about the safety of using opioids in pain management. Traditionally, opioid analgesics were reserved for a few select conditions, such as terminal illness and surgery, but currently opioids have been readily prescribed for multiple conditions. The objective of this manuscript is to clarify the current state of opioid use and to discuss alternative transdermal analgesic therapies in pain management. Transdermal compounded medications are patient-specific and customizable to include different types of drugs, in various dosage strengths, that are to be delivered simultaneously in one application. Due to the different origins and types of pain, treatments may be most beneficial with multiple classes of drugs with various mechanisms of action. In addition, combination drug therapy may include nontraditional pain management options, and has the ability to maximize therapeutic effects of medications through additive or synergistic properties, without increasing the dosage strengths of the drugs. Many of the challenges faced when using oral opioid therapy may be overcome by using transdermal drug delivery since this route of administration reduces adverse effects, increases patient compliance, and limits exposure to potentially abusive drugs. Although prescribing practices surrounding opioids remains to be a controversial topic, the use of compounded pain medications may help healthcare providers effectively treat their patients while avoiding the use of addictive drugs.
Correlates of opiate misuse based on aberrant urine drug tests for patients on chronic opiate therapy in a safety-net, academic primary care clinic
Authors: Bakhai, MD, MPH, FACP Smita , Thilagar, MD Bright , Reynolds, PhD Jessica L. , Leonard, PhD Kenneth E.
Published: April 2018

Objective: Determine correlates of opiate misuse based on urine drug test (UDT) among patients on chronic opiate therapy (COT) for chronic noncancer pain. Design: A cross-sectional study.Setting: Urban, academic clinic.Participants: UDT performed in 206 patients on COT for at least 3 months duration within a one-year period. Patients were classified based on UDT results: (1) Appearance of Opiate Adherence: Positive UDT for prescribed opiate and negative for illicit drugs and nonprescribed control substances; (2) Opiate Misuse; Overt nonadherence: (a) Positive UDT for illicit drugs and/or nonprescribed controlled substances AND positive or negative for prescribed opiates (b) Overdose; (3) Possible opiate nonadherence: Negative for prescribed opiates and negative for illicit and nonprescribed controlled substances.Interventions: None.Main outcome measures: UDT results, patient demographics, medical history, healthcare adherence, and utilization measures.Results: Of the 206 records analyzed, 80 (38 percent) had appearance of opiate adherence, 91 (44 percent) had misuse, and 35 (17 percent) had possible opiate nonadherence. Analysis was performed comparing misuse and appearance of opiate adherence groups. In bivariate analyses, history of smoking (OR 3.90, 95% CI 1.69-9.03), substance use (OR 7.02, 95% CI 2.56-19.20), missed medical appointments (OR 2.85, 95% CI 1.44-5.63), and nonadherence to other medications correlated with misuse group (OR 18.86, 95% CI 8.73-40.74). In logistic regression, only substance use history (OR 4.32, 95% CI 1.27-14.64) and nonadherence with nonopiate medications (OR 13.22, 95% CI 5.81-30.10) correlated with misuse. Conclusions: Medication nonadherence and missed appointments for other chronic conditions were significant correlates of opiate misuse.
Hydromorphone use for acute pain: Misconceptions, controversies, and risks
Authors: Mazer-Amirshahi, PharmD, MD, MPH Maryann , Motov, MD Sergey , Nelson, MD Lewis S.
Published: April 2018

Hydromorphone (HM) is a potent opioid analgesic that is commonly administered in the emergency department (ED) and other acute care settings, such as medical surgical wards. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the ED administration of HM relative to other opioids. Although HM is an effective analgesic, its use has been commonly implicated in adverse drug events and medication errors. In addition, intravenous HM has potent euphoric effects that may contribute to its abuse liability. There are limited data regarding how acute parenteral administration of opioid analgesics in the setting of high rates of preexisting chronic opioid use (medical or nonmedical) may contribute to or reinforce addictive behavior, making the potential contribution of rising HM administration to subsequent prescription opioid abuse and overdose uncertain. This review addresses the pharmacology of HM, recommended dosing, its efficacy for acute pain, as well as its tolerability, safety, and abuse profiles. Controversies and strategies for appropriate use of this medication are also described.
Production of N2O5 and ClNO2 in summer in urban Beijing, China
Authors: Zhou Wei , Zhao Jian , Ouyang Bin , Mehra Archit , Xu Weiqi , Wang Yuying , Bannan Thomas J. , Worrall Stephen D. , Priestley Michael , Bacak Asan , Chen Qi , Xie Conghui , Wang Qingqing , Wang Junfeng , Du Wei , Zhang Yingjie , Ge Xinlei , Ye Penglin , Lee James D. , Fu Pingqing , Wang Zifa , Worsnop Douglas , Jones Roderic , Percival Carl J. , Coe Hugh , Sun Yele
Published: April 2018

Abstract. The heterogeneous hydrolysis of dinitrogen pentoxide (N2O5) has a significant impact on both nocturnal particulate nitrate formation and photochemistry the following day through photolysis of nitryl chloride (ClNO2), yet these processes in highly polluted urban areas remain poorly understood. Here we present measurements of gas-phase N2O5 and ClNO2 by high-resolution time-of-flight chemical ionization mass spectrometers (ToF-CIMS) during summer in urban Beijing, China as part of the Air Pollution and Human Health (APHH) campaign. N2O5 and ClNO2 show large day-to-day variations with average (±1σ) mixing ratios of 79.2 ± 157.1 and 174.3 ± 262.0 pptv, respectively. High reactivity of N2O5, with τ (N2O5)−1 ranging from 0.20 × 10−2 to 1.46 × 10−2 s−1, suggests active nocturnal chemistry and a large nocturnal nitrate formation potential via N2O5 heterogeneous uptake. The life time of N2O5, τ(N2O5), decreases rapidly as the increase of aerosol surface area, yet it varies differently as a function of relative humidity with the highest value peaking at ~ 40 %. The N2O5 uptake coefficients estimated from the product formation rates of ClNO2 and particulate nitrate are in the range of 0.017–0.19, corresponding to direct N2O5 loss rates of 0.00044–0.0034 s−1. Further analysis indicates that the fast N2O5 loss in the nocturnal boundary layer in urban Beijing is mainly attributed to its indirect loss via NO3, for example through the reactions with volatile organic compounds and NO, while the contribution of heterogeneous uptake of N2O5 is comparably small (7–33 %). High ClNO2 yields ranging from 0.10 to 0.35 were also observed which might have important implications for air quality by affecting nitrate and ozone formation.
Neoglacial Climate Anomalies and the Harappan Metamorphosis
Authors: Giosan Liviu , Orsi William D. , Coolen Marco , Wuchter Cornelia , Dunlea Ann G. , Thirumalai Kaustubh , Munoz Samuel E. , Clift Peter D. , Donnelly Jeffrey P. , Galy Valier , Fuller Dorian Q.
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Climate exerted constraints on the growth and decline of past human societies but our knowledge of temporal and spatial climatic patterns is often too restricted to address causal connections. At a global scale, the inter-hemispheric thermal balance provides an emergent framework for understanding regional Holocene climate variability. As the thermal balance adjusted to gradual changes in the seasonality of insolation, the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone migrated southward accompanied by a weakening of the Indian summer monsoon. Superimposed on this trend, anomalies such as the Little Ice Age point to asymmetric changes in the extratropics of either hemisphere. Here we present a reconstruction of the Indian winter monsoon in the Arabian Sea for the last 6000 years based on paleobiological records in sediments from the continental margin of Pakistan at two levels of ecological complexity: sedimentary paleo-DNA reflecting water column environmental states and planktonic foraminifers sensitive to winter conditions. We show that strong winter monsoons between ca. 4,500 and 3,000 years ago occurred during an interval of weak interhemispheric temperature contrast, which we identify as the Early Neoglacial Anomaly (ENA), and were accompanied by changes in wind and precipitation patterns across the eastern Northern Hemisphere and Tropics. This coordinated climate reorganization may have helped trigger the metamorphosis of the urban Harappan civilization into a rural society through a push-pull migration from summer flood-deficient river valleys to the Himalayan piedmont plains with augmented winter rains. Finally, we speculate that time-transgressive landcover changes due to aridification of the Tropics may have led to a generalized instability of the global climate during ENA at the transition from the warmer Holocene Optimum to the cooler Neoglacial.
Rapid increase in simulated North Atlantic dust deposition due to fast change of northwest African landscape during the Holocene
Authors: Egerer Sabine , Claussen Martin , Reick Christian
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Marine sediment records from a series of core sites along the northwest African margin show a sudden increase in North Atlantic dust deposition about 5 ka BP that has been associated with an abrupt end of the African Humid Period (AHP). To assess the causes of the abrupt shift in North Atlantic dust deposition, we explore changes in the Holocene dust cycle and in North African climate and landscape by performing several time slice simulations from 8 ka BP until the pre-industrial era. Therefore, we use the coupled aerosol-climate model ECHAM6-HAM2 including dynamic vegetation and interactive dust, whereas ocean conditions and lake surface area are prescribed for each time slice. We find a rapid increase in simulated dust deposition between 6 and 4 ka BP that is fairly consistent with the abrupt change in marine sediment records at around 20° N. The rapid change in simulated dust deposition is caused by a rapid increase in simulated dust emission in the western Sahara, where the main dust sources for dust transport towards the North Atlantic are located. The sudden increase in dust emission in the western Sahara is according to our simulations a consequence of a fast decline of vegetation cover from 22° N to 18° N that might occur due to vegetation-climate feedbacks or due to the existence of a precipitation threshold on vegetation growth. Additionally, the prescribed gradual reduction of lake area enforces accelerated dust release as highly productive dust sources are uncovered. Changes in the Saharan landscape and dust emission south of 18° N and in the eastern Sahara as well as changes in atmospheric circulation play a minor role in driving the dynamics of North Atlantic dust deposition at the core sites. Our study identifies spatial and temporal heterogeneity in the transition of the North African landscape. As a consequence, implications from local data records on large scale climate have to be treated with caution.
Water balance and hydrology research in a mountainous permafrost watershed in upland streams of the Kolyma River, Russia: a database from the Kolyma Water-Balance Station, 1948–1997
Authors: Makarieva Olga , Nesterova Nataliia , Lebedeva Lyudmila , Sushansky Sergey
Published: April 2018

Abstract. In 2018, 70 years have passed since the beginning of observations at the Kolyma Water-Balance Station (KWBS), a unique scientific research hydrological and permafrost catchment. The volume and duration (50 continuous years) of hydrometeorological standard and experimental data, characterizing the natural conditions and processes occurring in mountainous permafrost conditions, significantly exceed any counterparts elsewhere in the world. The data are representative of mountainous territory of the North-East of Russia. In 1997, the station was terminated, thereby leaving Russia without operating research watersheds in the permafrost zone. This paper describes the dataset containing the series of daily runoff from 10 watersheds with an area from 0.27 to 21.3 km2, precipitation, meteorological observations, evaporation from soil and snow, snow surveys, soil thaw and freeze depths, and soil temperature for the period 1948–1997. It also highlights the main historical stages of the station's existence, its work and scientific significance, and outlines the prospects for its future, where the Kolyma Water-Balance Station could be restored to the status of a scientific research watershed and become a valuable international centre for hydrological research in permafrost. The data are available at https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.881731.
Deep-seated gravitational slope deformation scaling on Mars and Earth: same fate for different initial conditions and structural evolutions
Authors: Kromuszczyńska Olga , Mège Daniel , Dębniak Krzysztof , Gurgurewicz Joanna , Makowska Magdalena , Lucas Antoine
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Some of the most spectacular instances of deep-seated gravitational slope deformation (DSGSD) are found on Mars in the Valles Marineris region. They provide an excellent opportunity to study DSGSD phenomenology using a scaling approach. The topography of selected DSGSD scarps in Valles Marineris and in the Tatra Mountains is investigated after their likely similar postglacial origin is established. The deformed Martian ridges are larger than the deformed terrestrial ridges by one to two orders, with however a similar height-to-width ratio, ~ 0.24. The measured finite strain of the Valles Marineris ridges is 3 times larger than in the Tatra Mountains, suggesting that starting from two different initial conditions, with steeper slopes in Valles Marineris, the final ridge geometry is now similar. Because DSGSD is expected to be now inactive in both regions, their comparison suggests that whatever the initial ridge morphology, DSGSD proceeds until a mature profile is attained. On both planets, strain is distributed over the same number (~ 5) of major scarps; fault displacements are therefore much larger on Mars. The large offsets make necessary reactivation of the DSGSD fault scarps in Valles Marineris, whereas single seismic events would be enough to generate DSGSD fault scarps in the Tatra Mountains. The required longer activity of the Martian faults may be correlated with a long succession of climate cycles generated by the unstable Mars obliquity. In spite of similar global geometry today, the studied ridges on Mars and Earth affected by DSGSD did not start from similar initial conditions and did not follow the same structural evolution.
On the nexus between landslide susceptibility and transport infrastructure – agent-based vulnerability assessment of rural road networks in the Eastern European Alps
Authors: Schlögl Matthias , Avian Michael , Richter Gerald , Thaler Thomas , Heiss Gerhard , Fuchs Sven , Lenz Gernot
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Road networks are complex interconnected systems. Any sudden disruption can result in debilitating impacts on human life or the economy. Interruptions of the transport flow may lead to potentially severe consequences in terms of both direct and indirect losses. In particular, road systems in mountainous areas do not feature redundant elements at comparable economic efficiency. Therefore, assessment of network vulnerability is of major importance for guaranteeing the smooth functioning of societies, especially in those regions. Among various menacing hazards, landslides protrude as particularly destructive events jeopardizing the integrity of land transport systems by causing structural damage and network interruptions. The aim of this paper is to present how road infrastructure is vulnerable towards landslides events, with emphasis on the consequences for the affected road users. This is addressed on the Austrian region Vorarlberg, which allows cross-learning and cross-comparison of, for example, rural and urban areas, also at different scales. The focus of this case study is on resilience issues and support for decision making in the context of a large scale sectoral approach. By taking into account derivates of a high-resolution digital terrain model as well as geological properties, a landslide susceptibility map of the test region is derived by means of the weight of evidence method. This susceptibility map is concatenated with historic data of landslide inventories and a digital road graph in order to identify critical sections of the road network. Subsequently, effects of interruptions of the road network at these critical links are analyzed by applying a mesoscopic multi-agent transport simulation model. Results show the merits of using agent-based traffic modeling for assessing the impacts of road network interruptions on rural communities by providing insight into the characteristics of the population affected, as well as the effects on its daily routine in terms of detour costs.
Microscale model comparison (benchmark) at the moderate complex forested site Ryningsnäs
Authors: Ivanell Stefan , Arnqvist Johan , Avila Matias , Cavar Dalibor , Chavez-Arroyo Roberto Aurelio , Olivares-Espinosa Hugo , Peralta Carlos , Adib Jamal , Witha Björn
Published: April 2018

Abstract. This article describes a study where modellers were challenged to compute the wind at aforested site with moderately complex topography. The target was to match the measured windprofile at one exact location for three directions. The input to the modellers consisted of detailedinformation of forest densities and ground height derived from Airborne Laser Scans (ALS). Allparticipating models except two used the full detailed ground and forest information to modelthe forest which is considered a significant progress. The ALS based data resulted in reasonableagreement of the wind profile and turbulence magnitude. The best performance was found tobe that of LES using a very large domain. For the RANS type of models the constants in theturbulence closure was shown to be of great significance for the turbulence level, but of muchless importance for the wind speed profile. Overall, the article gives an overview of how welldifferent types of models are able to capture the flow physics at a moderate complex forestedsite.
PACIENTŲ, SERGANČIŲ AKNE, GYVENIMO KOKYBĖS VERTINIMAS
Authors: Lideikaitė Andrė , Malevič Anastasija , Gancevičienė Rūta
Published: April 2018

Aknė yra lėtinė uždegiminė pilosebacinio (riebalų liaukos – plauko folikulo) vieneto odos liga. Daugelis studijų parodė, kad aknė turi didelės įtakos pacientų savęs vertinimui, kasdieninei veiklai ir gyvenimo kokybei. 2015-2016 m. Vilniaus universiteto ligoninės Santaros klinikų (VUL SK) Dermatovenerologijos centre, keturiose Vilniaus miesto privačiose klinikose ir dviejuose kosmetologijos kabinetuose atliktas anoniminis anketinis tyrimas. Akne sergantys pacientai užpildė originalią anketą, kurioje pateikta 15 sudėtinių klausimų ir Dermatologinio gyvenimo kokybės vertinimo klausimynas. Duomenys apdoroti Microsoft Exel programa, duomenų analizė atlikta SPSS® programa. Į tyrimą įtraukti 262 respondentai, sergantieji akne, iš kurių 180 moterų (68,7 proc.) ir 82 vyrai (31,3 proc.). Vidutinis aknės pasireiškimo amžius tarp tiriamųjų – 14,89 (± 3,43) metai. Dermatologinio gyvenimo kokybės indekso anketos (DGKIA) balai išsidėstė nuo 0 iki 28. DGKI bendras vidurkis – 8,96 (± 5,72), moterų grupėje – 9,45 (± 5,56), vyrų – 7,74 (± 5,12), statistiškai reikšmingo skirtumo tarp lyčių nenustatyta (p=0,23). Reikšmingo statistinio skirtumo tarp amžiaus grupių taip pat nebuvo nustatyta (p=0,177). Dažniausiai aknės įtaka žmogaus gyvenimo kokybei buvo vidutinė (33,2 proc.). Rečiausiai aknė turėjo labai didelę įtaką žmogaus gyvenimo kokybei (3,8 proc.). Daugiausia pacientų dėl aknės jautėsi nusiminę, susigėdę, drovūs ar liūdni (19,7 proc.). Mažiausiai aknė trukdė seksualiniams santykiams (5,27 proc.). Aknė dažniausiai pasireiškia jauniems vidutiniškai 21 metų amžiaus žmonėms. Dažniausiai aknė turėjo vidutinę įtaką žmogaus gyvenimo kokybei. Rečiausiai aknė turėjo labai didelę įtaką žmogaus gyvenimo kokybei. Dauguma pacientų dėl aknės jautėsi nusiminę, susigėdę, drovūs ar liūdni. Mažiausiai aknė trukdė seksualiniams santykiams.
VAIKŲ, GIMUSIŲ SU LŪPOS, ALVEOLINĖS ATAUGOS IR
GOMURIO NESUAUGIMAIS, NUO BURNOS SVEIKATOS
PRIKLAUSANTI GYVENIMO KOKYBĖ
Authors: Zaleckas Linas , Linkevičienė Laura , Aidukaitė Greta , Bagušauskaitė Greta
Published: April 2018

Lietuvoje su lūpos, alveolinės ataugos ir/ar gomurio
nesuaugimais gimsta 1 iš 700-800 vaikų. Tai yra
kompleksinė patologija, apimanti anatominius, fiziologinius,
psichologinius procesus, kurie keičia
gyvenimo kokybę.
Darbo tikslas - įvertinti vaikų, gimusių su lūpos, alveolinės
ataugos ir/ar gomurio nesuaugimu, nuo burnos
sveikatos priklausančią gyvenimo kokybę bei
nustatyti, ar skiriasi gyvenimo kokybės rodikliai atsižvelgiant
į nesuaugimo tipą, pacientų amžių, lytį,
palyginti tėvų/globėjų atsakymus vertinant vaikų nuo
burnos sveikatos priklausančią gyvenimo kokybę.
Medžiaga ir metodai. Tirti 45 Vilniaus universiteto
ligoninės Žalgirio klinikos pacientai, gimę su lūpos
ir/ar gomurio nesuaugimu, taip pat vienas iš jų tėvų/
globėjų bei 45 kontrolinės grupės asmenys. Tyrimas
atliktas nagrinėjant tiriamųjų užpildytą, standartizuotą
vaiko burnos sveikatos nulemtos gyvenimo kokybės
klausimyną lietuvių kalba (angl. Child Oral Health
Impact Profile - COHIP). Dalyvavusių vaikų amžius
8-15 metų.
Rezultatai. Vaikų, gimusių su nesuaugimu, gyvenimo
kokybė yra prastesnė nei sveikų vaikų (p<0,001).
Vidutinis jų surinktas COHIP balas 108,80 ± 13,26,
o kontrolinės grupės 125,78 ± 11,43. Labiausiai tai
atsispindi vertinant funkcinę gyvenimo gerovę, socialinę-
emocinę gyvenimo gerovę, mokyklos aplinką,
bendrą sveikatą (p<0,001) bei bendrą burnos sveikatą
(p=0,05). Nerasta reikšmingo skirtumo lyginant atsakymus
skirtingose amžiaus grupėse, tarp skirtingų lyčių bei tarp vaikų, turinčių skirtingus nesuaugimo
tipus. Nustatyta, kad tėvai/globėjai statistiškai blogiau
vertina vaikų nuo burnos sveikatos priklausančią
gyvenimo kokybę, ypač funkcinę, socialinę-emocinę
gyvenimo gerovę, mokyklos aplinką bei bendrą burnos
sveikatą nei patys vaikai.
Išvados. Pacientų, gimusių su lūpos, alveolinės ataugos
ir/ar gomurio nesuaugimu nuo burnos sveikatos
priklausanti gyvenimo kokybė yra prastesnė nei
sveikų vaikų. Tėvai savo vaikų, gimusių su nesuaugimu,
gyvenimo kokybę vertina blogiau, nei patys
vaikai. Amžiaus grupė, lytis bei nesuaugimo tipas
neturi įtakos gyvenimo kokybei.
CHEMOTERAPINIU BŪDU GYDOMŲ PACIENTŲ POKYČIAI BURNOJE IR BURNOS PRIEŽIŪROS ĮPROČIAI
Authors: Ramanauskaitė Karolina , Zūbienė Jūratė , Andruškevičienė Vilija , Saldūnaitė Kristina
Published: April 2018

Tikslas. Įvertinti pacientų, sergančių onkologinėmis ligomis, pokyčius burnoje ir burnos priežiūros įpročius chemoterapinio gydymo metu. Tyrimo metodai. Momentinis tyrimas buvo vykdomas Lietuvos sveikatos mokslų universiteto ligoninės, Kauno onkologijos klinikos dienos chemoterapijos stacionare nuo 2016 metų sausio iki vasario mėnesio. Anoniminėje anketinėje apklausoje dalyvavo 100 onkologinių pacientų, gydomų chemoterapiniu būdu: 62 moterys ir 38 vyrai. Anketoje pateikti dviejų tipų klausimai: apie pokyčius, atsiradusius burnoje chemoterapijos metu, ir apie pacientų burnos priežiūros įpročius gydymo metu. Rezultatai. Tyrimo rezultatai parodė, kad chemoterapinio gydymo metu pokyčius burnoje pajuto net 79,0 proc. tiriamųjų. Dažniausiai pasitaikė burnos sausumas (52,0 proc.), sutrikęs skonio pojūtis (45,0 proc.), sumažėjo seilėtekis (36,0 proc.), burnos gleivinės uždegimas (30,0 proc.), dantų jautrumas (28,0 proc.), padaugėjo bakterinių apnašų kiekis (28,0 proc.), burnos gleivinės kraujavimas (25,0 proc.), nemalonus burnos kvapas (23,0 proc.), skausmas burnoje (10,0 proc.), spontaniškas gleivinės kraujavimas (8,0 proc.). Nustatyta, kad gydomos moterys kruopščiau prižiūri savo dantis, naudoja įvairesnes burnos priežiūros priemones bei dažniau lankosi pas gydytoją odontologą. Išvados. Tyrimo metu nustatyta, kad onkologiniams pacientams chemoterapijos metu pasireiškia gydymo komplikacijos burnoje. Tiriamos moterys kur kas kruopščiau ir dažniau rūpinasi savo burnos priežiūra nei vyrai.
NARCISISTINIŲ ASMENYBIŲ SANTYKIO SU AUTORITETU PATYRIMAS: KOKYBINĖ ANALIZĖ
Authors: Petronytė-Kvedarauskienė Dovilė , Gudaitė Gražina
Published: April 2018

Santykis su autoritetu yra svarbus psichosocialinis veiksnys, kuriantis pagrindus atskiro žmogaus tapatumo ir vertės jausmui, įtakojantis socialinių grupių ir visos visuomenės funkcionavimą. Nesėkmingai susiklostę santykiai su pirmaisiais autoritetais vaikystėje gali formuoti narcisistinius sunkumus. Lietuvos žmonių santykį su autoritetu pažeidė išgyventas autoritarinis režimas, ir jo neigiamas pasekmes jaučia kelios kartos. Įsisąmoninti santykio su autoritetu sunkumus ir atkurti konstruktyvų santykį su autoritetu yra aktuali šių dienų užduotis, siekiant psichologinės ir socialinės Lietuvos žmonių gerovės. Šio tyrimo tikslas buvo tirti narcisistinių asmenybių santykio su autoritetu patyrimą siekiant atskleisti šios patirties sunkumus ir lūkesčius pokyčiams. Tyrime dalyvavo 12 suaugusių žmonių, turinčių narcisistinių sunkumų. Atlikti giluminiai pusiau struktūruojantys interviu ir kokybinė teminė duomenų analizė. Tyrimo rezultatai atskleidė, kad dalyviai patiria autoritetus kaip vertinančius ir galinčius piktnaudžiauti jėga. Tyrimo dalyviai jaučiasi priklausomi nuo autoritetų ir sunkiai nuo jų atsiskiria. Išryškėjo sunkumas integruoti autoriteto įvairiapusiškumą ir lūkestis, kad autoritetas bus tobulas. Tyrimo dalyviai nori laisvai rinktis autoritetą bei nurodo priimančio ir lygiaverčio santykio su autoritetu poreikį. Jie ieško autoriteto kaip patikimo vedlio ir siekia kurti su tokiu autoritetu konstruktyvų santykį.
The Influence of Human Resource Management Practices on Employee Performance in the Manufacturing Sector in Malaysia
Authors: Hee Ong Choon , Jing Koh Rui
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between Human Resource Management (HRM) practices (Compensation and Benefits, Work-life Policies, Performance Appraisal and Training and Development) and employee performance. Data was collected through questionnaire from 161 employees of a manufacturing company in Johor, Malaysia. The results of the multiple regression analysis showed that performance appraisal and training and development were significantly related to employee performance. The findings suggested that training and development is the most important factor that positively influences employee performance followed by performance appraisal. Compensation and benefits and work-life policies were found to be not significant in predicting employee performance. In relation to these findings, human resource department shall have designed suitable training plan with comprehensive and consistent performance appraisal system for the employees.
Social Inequalities in a Time of Economic Crisis in Greece
Authors: Papa Monika
Published: April 2018

The study maintains the focus at the economic crisis in Greece, in real social terms. The research highlights the evidence between the level of education and poverty, and the impact that children of poor families are facing. The authors are focusing on the lack of social protection in single parent families, as well as the significant increase in the number of unemployed in Greece during the period of the memorandum. Moreover, the lack of an effective social state and the collapse of informal support networks increases the chances of tearing the social fabric and more families going into poverty. The study also underlines the social consequences of the economic crisis that are geared towards issues of social inclusion in societies organized in relation to values and the development of skills logic, and the inability to secure full-time jobs. The absence of social protection factors, coupled with the impact of vulnerability and risk factors, are causing poverty, unemployment, loss of rights and social support, social exclusion, discrimination, deinstitutionality, migration combined with effects on personality, developmental experiences, health of the body and soul. In Greek society, at the time of the economic crisis, there is a lack of a social protection network, and the weakening of the institution of the family. In Greece, it is necessary to approach the "new poor" in terms of politics and economy, so that they can be considered as indispensable social partners of democracy. Unprivileged social groups have to claim their rights, become part of their liberation process, and become faces of a change of personnel and social level with the ultimate goal of social transformation.
International Donor Agencies and Electoral Support in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic (1999-2015): The Missing Link
Authors: Sule Babayo , Wurobokki Hamza Sule , Sambo Usman
Published: April 2018

International donor agencies are international organisations that operate globally and promote certain values such as democracy, good governance, conflict resolution, humanitarian aid and support and overall global agenda. This paper is an attempt to examine the role of international donor agencies in supporting electoral process in Nigeria from 1999 to 2015 particularly the missing links from the previous studies in terms of their activities in the country. The problem is the nature and method of operation of the international agencies in supporting elections in Nigeria which failed to achieve the desired result. The paper used a qualitative method of data analysis where primary and secondary sources were used. The in-depth interview was conducted with some selected senior officials from the international donors in Nigeria, INEC officials and civil societies in addition to academicians. The secondary source was the used of documented data and materials on the subject matter. The data obtained were analysed using simple statistical analysis such as tables and charts. The research discovered that international donor agencies did not impact much on financing of elections in Nigeria as the country is rich enough to finance her elections comfortably but, they contributed in the process through provisions of technical support to INEC staff, civil societies and weak groups but it was not adequate to ensure a transparent election in the country. The research recommends for a holistic approach that will avoid suspicion locally and be a community-driven and indigenous in nature by the donors to ensure success at the local level.
The Meaning of the Matrix: Towards a Cybernetic Critical Theory of Capitalism
Authors: Hershkovitz Shay
Published: April 2018

Marxist criticism is most discernible; despite the oft-repeated claim that it is now irrelevant, belonging to an age now past. This essay assumes that criticism originating in the Marxist school of thought continue to be relevant also in this present time; though it may need to be further developed and improved by integrating newer critical approaches into the classic Marxist discourse. This essay therefore integrates basic Marxist ideas with key concepts from ‘social systems theory’; especially the theory of the German sociologist Niklas Luhmann's. In this light, capitalism is conceptualized here as a ‘super (social) system’: a meaning-creating social entity, in which social actors, behaviors and structures are realized. This theoretical concept and terminology emphasizes the social construction of control and stability, when discussing the operational logic of capitalism.
Irrational Beliefs of Gifted Children’s Parents in Turkey
Authors: Ogurlu Uzeyir , Kahraman Suleyman
Published: April 2018

This study examined the irrational beliefs of parents of gifted children. Ninety-nine parents of gifted children in Turkey participated in the study. Parent Irrational Beliefs Scale was used as a data collection tool. Mann-Whitney’s U and Kruskal-Wallis Tests were used to compare the scores. Results revealed that parents who had no training about giftedness had scored higher on parent irrational beliefs than did trained parents. In addition to training, education levels of parents had a significant effect on parent irrational beliefs. With regard to the gender of their gifted children, there were no significant differences in parent irrational beliefs scores. Parents’ explanation of their difficulties with their gifted children were related to irrational beliefs.
Bridging Students Multicultural Competency Across Institutions: A Model of Practice
Authors: Drew Meredith , Vincenzes Kristin
Published: April 2018

This model was created between two institutions to provide opportunities for graduate counselor trainees to experience and work with more culturally diverse clients/students. All students were enrolled in Clinical Interviewing/Advanced Skills courses and were required to complete two counseling transcripts. Students completed a brief survey identifying their cultural identity. The instructors used this information to pair students from diverse cultures. Students then engaged in four counseling sessions (each student was in the role of counselor and client twice) via a synchronous technology platform. Students wrote a transcript of the counseling session along with a case conceptualization and analysis of their counseling skills.
Growth of escarole in different seasons of year, RS, Brazil
Authors: Fontana Daniele Cristina , Caron Braulio Otomar , Schmidt Denise , Meira Daniela , Zanatta Thais Pollon , Brezolin Patricia , Werner Carla Janaina
Published: April 2018

The lack of research about escarole cultivars adapted to each region, as well as technical information on plant growth have been some of the factors related to low yields. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate the growth of escarole crop in four seasons of year in Santa Maria, RS. The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design, 1 x 4, being a escarole (cultivar Escorola Lisa®) evaluated in four seasons of year (summer, autumn, winter and spring), in six replications. The evaluations were performed in a destructive manner every seven days, from date of transplant to harvest point. The following components were analyzed: number of leaves, number of residues, dry mass of leaves, dry mass of leaves, stem and residue. Thus, it was determined the parameters for growth analysis. With the data obtained, we performed a variance analysis, and presented significant results, and the means of each season of the year submitted to the Tukey test at 5% of error probability. The air temperature and global radiation influence crop cycle. Lower temperatures and lower incidence of radiation result in cycle extended, as observed in autumn. The escarole growth is influenced by seasons of year in Rio Grande do Sul (RS), and summer and spring finish the cycle in advance to others, presenting a larger leaf area. Summer and spring are most indicated season to escarole crop in RS, Brazil.
Short-term evaluation of an intra-articular technique for cranial cruciate ligament rupture in dogs using nylon or polyester
Authors: Prada Tiago Carmagnani , Silva Anderson Coutinho da , Minto Bruno Watanabe
Published: April 2018

Cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCrLR) is a common condition found in the small animal routine, being correlated to traumas, obesity, genetic factors, and primary osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs. Affected animals show articular instability that, if not corrected surgically, may cause secondary OA and loss of limb function. The aim of this study was to compare short-term results of the intra-articular technique for knee stabilization after CCrLR using a surgical button associated with polyester yarn (Group A), the surgical button associated with nylon yarn (Group B), and surgical toggle associated with polyester yarn (Group C). Eighteen dogs presenting CCrLR, weight varying from 5 to 35 kg, and different sex and breed were divided into three groups of six individuals. OA radiographic grade, pre- and post-operative lameness, surgical time, and the macroscopic aspect of cartilage were assessed. The intra-articular technique was performed by passing a suture through two tunnels, drilled in the femoral condyle and tibial crest to stabilize the knee joint. Twelve animals presented a decreased lameness and normal limb function after 15 days. On the other hand, four dogs from Group B presented complications: two dogs had suture rupture after 30 days and other two showed muscular contracture with decreased range of motion, followed by loss of limb function. In Group A, one dog showed suture rupture after 15 days and other had suture infection after 30 days. In Group C, dogs recovered normal limb function without complications. Therefore, surgical toggle associated with polyester yarn was better than the other studied materials.
Molecular detection of Rickettsia spp. in ticks collected from dogs from the Department of Piura, Peru
Authors: Temoche Luis Fernando Cerro , Seabra Junior Eloy Da Silva , Cordeiro Matheus Dias , Fonseca Adivaldo Henrique da , Cunha Nathalie Costa da , Almosny Nadia Regina Pereira
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of ticks positive for genus Rickettsia bacteria among ticks collected from domestic dogs in the Department of Piura, Peru, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Ticks were collected from dogs in urban areas of the metropolitan region of Piura, Peru. Only three species of ticks were identified; 977 Rhipicephalus sanguineus (180 nymphs, 417 females, and 380 males), Six Amblyomma triste females, and one Amblyomma tigrinum male. After classifying the specimens morphologically by stage, species, and sex, their total DNA was tested by PCR using primers that amplify fragments of the gltA, ompA, ompB, and htrA genes. The resulting positive sample was sequenced, compared to the GenBank database, and analyzed phylogenetically. The Rickettsia spp. infection rate in the tick pools was 0.2% (1/484); the positive specimen was an R. sanguineus tick. GenBank analysis of the positive sequence revealed 100% identify with Rickettsia felis; however, no products of the htrA, ompA and ompB genes were amplified from this sample. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of R. felis in R. sanguineus in Peru.