bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethics in nursing: A systematic review of the framework of evidence perspective
Authors: Yıldız Erman
Published: November 2017

Aim:

To determine the current state of knowledge on nursing and ethics and to assess the knowledge and experience based on the evidence in this regard.

Background:

Although ethics is at the center of the nursing profession and the ethical issues affecting nurses are given much importance, few studies have focused on professional ethics in nursing. In this respect, ethics has become a concept that contains controversial and ambiguous situations.

Design:

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guide, a basic search algorithm, was taken.

Data sources:

Cochrane, PubMed, CINAHL Complete, PsycINFO, and ULAKBIM from 2012 to 2016.

Review methods:

Following a systematic search strategy, all papers were assessed in relation to inclusion criteria and type of study. When sufficient information was not available in the title and summary of the works, the necessary data were evaluated in full texts.

Results:

This review was completed with 27 articles meeting the research criteria. The evaluation identified six themes: (1) ethics and nursing, (2) ethical difficulties/ethical dilemmas and nursing, (3) ethical competence and nursing, (4) professional ethics and nursing, (5) ethics, education, and nursing, and (6) ethics in health research.

Conclusion:

As a result of the review, a synthesis of high evidence-level research relating to nursing ethics was obtained. The emphasis was on the importance of further research and education so that the ethical aspects of nursing can be better understood throughout the studies. Nursing researchers’ level of evidence on ethics and their orientation to high research design will shed light on uncertain and controversial aspects of the subject.

Ethical consideration:

Since this was a systematic review, no ethical approval was required. There is no conflict of interest in this literature review.
Selective paternalism in Australian social security law
Authors: Spencer Liesel
Published: November 2017

Changes to the regulation of consumer leases for people on welfare who use Centrepay deductions to make lease payments for household goods, are part of the federal government’s response to a 2016 review of small amount credit contract laws. The review and response do not propose expanding availability of no-interest loans as an alternative to small amount credit contract finance. In 2015, a Bill proposing to exclude consumer leases from Centrepay failed to pass, with opponents objecting to the Bill as paternalistic. Restrictions on consumer spending imposed since 2007 by income management legislation, however, have been supported as necessary paternalism. These conflicting approaches to the protection of people receiving social security benefits from self-harming consumer choices constitute selective paternalism, while failing to deliver financial autonomy and inclusion.
Appointing Attorneys-General to the High Court: A case for reform
Authors: Bai James , Hobbs Harry
Published: November 2017

Throughout 2016, Attorney-General George Brandis QC repeatedly denied he intended to leave the Federal Parliament and take up a position on the High Court of Australia. In this article we explore the experiences of the two most recent politicians-cum-High Court Justices: Garfield Barwick and Lionel Murphy; and note that Australia’s current judicial appointment process would have permitted Brandis to make a similar transition. We argue that this process should be revamped to enhance transparency and accountability in the appointments process, to the benefit of our judicial system and its public perception.
Electrothermomechanical behaviors of spherical vessels with different configurations of functionally graded piezoelectric coating
Authors: Nosouhi Dehnavi Fayyaz , Parvizi Ali
Published: November 2017

Piezoelectric material has widely been used as sensors or actuators in smart structures. In this study, electrothermomechanical behaviors of homogeneous spherical vessels with different configurations of functionally graded piezoelectric material coating are investigated. Homogeneous vessels with inner, outer, and both inner and outer layers of functionally graded piezoelectric material are taken into account. Infinitesimal strain theory and axisymmetric assumption are considered to formulate the problem. Moreover, it is considered that material properties in functionally graded piezoelectric material vary based on the power function of radius. Results show that homogeneous sphere with outer functionally graded piezoelectric material coating has the lowest tensile circumferential stress compared to the other cases in functionally graded piezoelectric material layer. In the second case, effects of grading indices and functionally graded piezoelectric material layer thickness are also studied. It is shown that the grading index variation could have a great effect on the thermomechanical behavior of both functionally graded piezoelectric material and homogeneous layers. It is turned out that lower grading index could lead to the lower circumferential stress and higher induced electric potential. It is shown that significant difference between thermal conductivity of functionally graded piezoelectric material and homogeneous layer can extremely affect the distribution of radial stress and electric potential.
Discrepancies Between the Supports Needed for Discharge of Patients With Terminal Cancer to Family Caregivers and What Supports Were Actually Provided in Japan: Assessment of Palliative Care Unit Nurses
Authors: Oosono Yasufumi , Yokoyama Kazuhito , Itoh Hiroaki , Enomoto Miyuki , Ishiwata Miki
Published: November 2017

Objectives:

Even if patients with terminal cancer hope to spend the rest of their lives at home, they are often unable to leave the hospital early due to their family caregivers’ anxiety. This study aimed to investigate in Japan the discrepancies between the supports needed by and actually provided by palliative care unit nurses (PCUNs) to the family caregivers for discharge of patients with terminal cancer.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, self-administered questionnaires including 6-point Likert-type scales assessing the reasons for difficulties in transition to home-based care were distributed to 1227 PCUNs. Using paired t tests, the differences between the scores on perceived importance and actual supports to family caregivers were examined. The supports actually provided were classified by factor analysis. The relationships between the PCUNs’ characteristics and mean scores on the supports in each category were examined using multiple regression analysis.

Results:

A total of 1023 (83.4%) completed questionnaires were returned. Scores on the actually provided supports for discharge to family caregivers were consistently and significantly lower than the corresponding scores on perceived importance for all 57 items ( P < .001). Factor analysis revealed that the supports actually provided to the family caregivers had a 4-factor structure. Multiple regression analyses revealed that gaining experience in palliative care, receiving necessary training, cooperating with palliative care staff, and cooperating with local service providers were significantly associated with higher levels of actual supply of supports to family caregivers.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that PCUNs need to be encouraged to provide further support to family caregivers for the discharge of patients with terminal cancer.
No Structure without Culture? A Survey Study of 15–19 Year Olds’ Practices, Preferences and Perceptions of Physical Activity in a Danish Upper Secondary School
Authors: Nielsen Stine Frydendal , Nielsen Glen , Ottesen Laila Susanne , Thing Lone Friis
Published: November 2017

This article presents the results of a questionnaire survey conducted in a Danish upper secondary school where alternative options of physical activity have been provided to the students. The purpose of the study is to gain knowledge about the perspectives of the students concerning physical education (PE), sport and exercise. The study illustrates young people’s practices, preferences and perceptions when physical activity is a gender-integrated activity as is the case in Denmark. The results are discussed in a figurational perspective viewing PE, sport and exercise as interdependent dimensions influencing young people’s participation in and views on physical activity. The study shows that even though we have a long tradition of gender-integrated PE in Denmark, very traditional gender differences similar to countries with gender-segregated PE prevails. The article, therefore, discusses the significance of cultural rather than structural circumstances while studying practices, preferences and perceptions of physical activity among young people.
Understanding the indoor soundscape in public transport spaces: A case study in Akköprü metro station, Ankara
Authors: Yilmazer Semiha , Bora Zeynep
Published: November 2017

Metro stations can be included in the indoor soundscape literature. This study examines the relationship between space recognition and soundmarks. Sound recordings were taken at various sites in and around a metro station and a listening test applied to investigate whether spaces could be recognized only by the sounds associated with them. For each sound recording, participants were asked to describe the recorded space from 17 adjective pairs and define the sound sources. The results are as follows: (1) only half of the participants were able to correctly determine the function of the spaces; (2) bird, wind, and water soundmarks were identified in the urban park near the metro station; pay gates and coin sounds were identified in the station entrance; and the metro train itself, as well as its brakes, doors, and announcement system, were identified on the underground platform; (3) for outdoor spaces, participants tended to choose adjectives such as pleasant, calming, or natural, while for indoor spaces they chose words such as unpleasant, stressing, and artificial; and (4) females on average are able to identify 30% more sounds correctly than males are, and younger age groups’ correct identification rate is greater than older groups’ by 10% on average.
Incidence and outcomes of thoracic aortic injuries with regionalized care in a mature trauma system
Authors: Harris Donald G , Rabin Joseph , Crawford Robert S , Klyushnenkova Elena N , Drucker Charles B , Chen Hegang , Scalea Thomas M , Diaz Jose J
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Thoracic aortic injury is a leading cause of death after blunt trauma, but the effect of trauma system organization on outcomes is undefined. This was an analysis of thoracic aortic injury in a state with a comprehensive trauma system.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of thoracic aortic injury in Maryland between 2009 and 2014 using a statewide inpatient admission database. Presence of thoracic aortic injury and open or endovascular aortic interventions were identified by International Classification of Diseases version 9 codes. Patients were compared by admitting hospital status, categorized as Level I or non-Level I trauma centers. Outcomes were overall inpatient mortality and death after aortic repair.

Results

Of 774,211 injured patients, 168 (0.02%) had thoracic aortic injury. Patients with thoracic aortic injury were younger, more often male, and were more severely injured than patients without thoracic aortic injury. The majority of patients (136, 81%) were admitted to Level I trauma centers; Level I and non-Level I patients had similar characteristics. Most patients (110, 65%) were managed non-operatively, but patients admitted to Level I facilities were more likely to undergo aortic repair. Overall and post-operative mortality rates were lower at Level I hospitals (22% versus 31% and 6% versus 17%, respectively), but these differences did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

This novel analysis indicates thoracic aortic injury management in Maryland is highly concentrated at Level I trauma centers, which was associated with mortality below previously reported national rates. Although limited by small sample size, these findings suggest a benefit to regionalized care for patients with thoracic aortic injury and support transfer to high-volume facilities for definitive management.
Designing the news: A practitioner perspective on the production values in newspaper sub-editing
Authors: Vandendaele Astrid
Published: November 2017

This article zooms in on the daily practices of newspaper production journalists. In three semi-structured interviews with sub-editors employed by a Belgian newspaper, I test the practical application of the ‘production values’ I formulated, that is, guidelines that help them ensure accuracy, readability, appeal and credibility of their newspaper. By not only ‘member checking’ previous findings with sub-editors but also including the layout designers’ input on their collaborative process, I re(de)fine my original set of production values. My data suggest that in this particular newsroom the layout designer’s voice can be heard louder than ever. By ‘designing’ the news, sub-editors and layout designers add all-important journalistic value to their publications.
The Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement, intellectual property and medicines: Differential outcomes for developed and developing countries
Authors: Gleeson Deborah , Lexchin Joel , Lopert Ruth , Kilic Burcu
Published: November 2017

The final text of the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP), agreed between the 12 negotiating countries in 2016, included a suite of intellectual property provisions intended to expand and extend pharmaceutical company exclusivities on medicines. It drew wide criticism for including such provisions in an agreement that involved developing countries (Vietnam, Peru, Malaysia, Mexico, Chile and Brunei Darussalam) because of the effect on delaying the introduction of low-cost generics. While developing nations negotiated transition periods for implementing some obligations, all parties would have eventually been expected to meet the same standards had the TPP come into force. While the TPP has stalled following US withdrawal, there are moves by some of the remaining countries to reinvigorate the agreement without the United States. The proponents may seek to retain as much as possible of the original text in the hope that the United States will re-join the accord in future. This article presents a comparative analysis of the impact the final 2016 TPP intellectual property chapter could be expected to have (if implemented in its current form) on the intellectual property laws and regulatory regimes for medicines in the TPP countries. Drawing on the published literature, it traces the likely impact on access to medicines. It focuses particularly on the differential impact on regulatory frameworks for developed and developing nations (in terms of whether or not legislative action would have been required to implement the agreement). The article also explores the political and economic dynamics that contributed to these differential outcomes.
Drawn and written funds of knowledge: A window into emerging bilingual children’s experiences and social interpretations through their written narratives and drawings
Authors: Alvarez Adriana
Published: November 2017

This qualitative study examines Mexican-American emerging bilingual children’s depictions of their lives in the form of written narratives and drawings as a window into their own understandings and interpretations of social contexts and life experiences. Narratives that include drawings were collected once a month in a first grade classroom during one school year in a two-way dual language school set in a border city that serves mostly Mexican-American students. Children’s written and pictorial depictions of their experiences suggest they viewed their roles as valuable contributors to the family’s well-being. They used both multimodal semiotic systems to express their social understandings of family and community networks, and their roles within them.
Impacts of sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors on central blood pressure
Authors: Takenaka Tsuneo , Ohno Yoichi , Suzuki Hiromichi
Published: November 2017

Aims:

To assess the effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors on central blood pressure, an important determinant of cardiovascular events.

Methods:

Canagliflozin, Empagliflozin or Luseogliflozin was given for 102 type 2 diabetic patients with hypertension and nephropathy. Central blood pressure was evaluated by radial tonometry. Clinical parameters were followed for 6 months.

Results:

Three differing sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors similarly reduced brachial and central blood pressures, casual blood sugar, haemoglobin A1c, estimated glomerular filtration rate and albuminuria without significant changes in pulse rate and lipid profiles. Central systolic blood pressure was associated with the decreases in albuminuria by sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors.

Conclusion:

Comparable influences of various sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors on central blood pressure suggest class effects.
Improving Asthma-Related Outcomes Among Children Participating in the Head-Off Environmental Asthma in Louisiana (HEAL), Phase II Study
Authors: Rapp Kristi Isaac , Jack Leonard , Wilson Candice , Hayes Sandra Carr , Post Robert , McKnight Ellen , Malveaux Floyd
Published: November 2017

Purpose. Pediatric asthma disproportionately affects low-income and minority children. The HEAL (Head-Off Environmental Asthma in Louisiana), Phase II Project was a collaborative effort with a primary focus to improve pediatric asthma management in New Orleans, Louisiana. The purpose of this article is to report clinical outcomes captured at baseline and 12-month follow-up. Method. HEAL (Head-off Environmental Asthma in Louisiana), Phase II was a pre–post intervention study that enrolled children ages 2 to 18 years of age with a diagnosis of asthma to receive asthma education within the clinic setting. Enrollees received an asthma education intervention, an environmental evaluation, and a 12-month follow-up session. Endpoints included symptom days, level of asthma control, asthma exacerbations, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and missed school days. Results. The majority of participants were aged 5 years and older, male, Black, and persistent asthmatics. Emergency room visits decreased from 41% to 20% ( p < .001). Improvements in coughing (83% to 62%, p < .001), wheezing (50% to 26%, p < .001), and chest tightness (29% to 18%, p < .001) were also seen. Conclusion. The novel intervention was associated with improved asthma outcomes among pediatric patients receiving care at the clinical sites in the Greater New Orleans area.
The Role of Caregivers in Physical Activity for Older Adults With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Kim Eunsaem , Ullrich-French Sarah , Bolkan Cory , Hill Laura Griner
Published: November 2017

This study examined the determinants of physical activity (PA) for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) to learn more about how to promote PA in this population. Caregivers of older adults with AD (N = 99) provided information related to care recipient’s PA, as well as addressed sociodemographics and perceptions about their care recipient’s PA. Gender of care recipient was a significant predictor of PA (β = .80, P < .05); men with AD participated in more PA than women with AD. Also, caregiver's outcome expectation for care recipient's PA also predicted more PA (β = .82, P < .05). Caregiver’s perceived benefits of PA (outcome expectation) for their care recipient partially mediated the relationship between self-efficacy for care recipient’s PA and the reported levels of PA for the care recipient. This study demonstrated the importance of caregiver perceptions about care recipient’s PA.
Invisible Pirates: Women and the Gendered Roles of Somali Piracy
Authors: Gilmer Brittany
Published: November 2017

Women’s participation in maritime piracy activities has spanned throughout the centuries and across the globe. However, women as perpetrators of contemporary maritime piracy have yet to receive academic attention. Based on ethnographic research conducted in Somalia, this exploratory study expands upon current understandings of Somali piracy by examining four roles women fulfill in the onshore infrastructure: relationship facilitators, resource dealers, care workers, and financial investors. It draws from piracy studies and utilizes a feminist countertopographies approach to analyze how these roles can aid in (re)conceptualizing Somali piracy as a gendered activity that enables the active participation of women.
Immunohistochemical localization of nerve growth factor, tropomyosin receptor kinase A, and p75 in the bone and articular cartilage of the mouse femur
Authors: Chartier Stephane R , Mitchell Stefanie AT , Majuta Lisa A , Mantyh Patrick W
Published: November 2017

Sequestration of nerve growth factor (NGF) significantly attenuates skeletal pain in both animals and humans. However, relatively little is known about the specific cell types that express NGF or its cognate receptors tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) and p75 in the intact bone and articular cartilage. In the present study, antibodies raised against NGF, TrkA, and p75 (also known as CD271) were used to explore the expression of these antigens in the non-decalcified young mouse femur. In general, all three antigens displayed a remarkably restricted expression in bone and cartilage with less than 2% of all DAPI+ cells in the femur displaying expression of any one of the three antigens. Robust NGF immunoreactivity was found in mostly CD-31− blood vessel-associated cells, a small subset of CD-31+ endothelial cells, an unidentified group of cells located at the subchondral bone/articular cartilage interface, and a few isolated, single cells in the bone marrow. In contrast, p75 and TrkA were almost exclusively expressed by nerve fibers located nearby NGF+ blood vessels. The only non-neuronal expression of either p75 or TrkA in the femur was the expression of p75 by a subset of cells located in the deep and middle zone of the articular cartilage. Understanding the factors that tightly regulate the basal level of expression in normal bone and how the expression of NGF, TrkA, and p75 change in injury, disease, and aging may provide insights into novel therapies that can reduce skeletal pain and improve skeletal health.
FOXC1 in cancer development and therapy: deciphering its emerging and divergent roles
Authors: Yang Zhi , Jiang Shuai , Cheng Yicheng , Li Tian , Hu Wei , Ma Zhiqiang , Chen Fulin , Yang Yang
Published: November 2017

Forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) is an essential member of the forkhead box transcription factors and has been highlighted as an important transcriptional regulator of crucial proteins associated with a wide variety of carcinomas. FOXC1 regulates tumor-associated genes and is regulated by multiple pathways that control its mRNA expression and protein activity. Aberrant FOXC1 expression is involved in diverse tumorigenic processes, such as abnormal cell proliferation, cancer stem cell maintenance, cancer migration, and angiogenesis. Herein, we review the correlation between the expression of FOXC1 and tumor behaviors. We also summarize the mechanisms of the regulation of FOXC1 expression and activity in physiological and pathological conditions. In particular, we focus on the pathological processes of cancer targeted by FOXC1 and discuss whether FOXC1 is good or detrimental during tumor progression. Moreover, FOXC1 is highlighted as a clinical biomarker for diagnosis or prognosis in various human cancers. The information reviewed here should assist in experimental designs and emphasize the potential of FOXC1 as a therapeutic target for cancer.
Virtual Vitriol
Authors: Seely Natalee
Published: November 2017

The potential of online discussion for political engagement, expression of opinions, and participation has been lauded by both scholars and journalism practitioners, but accusations of incivility within comment forums abound. This study utilized a quantitative content analysis to examine and compare levels of incivility within virtual discussion forums of the most widely read mainstream news outlets and political blogs. A random sample of 851 user-generated comments was coded for dimensions of incivility and direction of incivility. As predicted, results showed significantly more instances of incivility in political blogs compared to mainstream outlets, specifically regarding insulting language, vulgarity, and stereotyping of political parties. No difference in the frequency of incivility was found between liberal and conservative outlet forums. Implications for meaningful political discussion and expression are discussed.
Mobilizing the young vote: Direct mail voter guides in the 2015 Chicago mayoral election*
Authors: Miller Peter , Reynolds Rebecca , Singer Matthew
Published: November 2017

Previous studies have shown nonpartisan direct mail interventions have a small turnout effect. It is less clear, however, what effect these interventions have with regard to cognitive mobilization of young voters. We report the results of a large ( N=52,324) experiment conducted during the February 2015 mayoral election in Chicago. A random sample of 22,179 registrants between 18 and 30 were sent a voter guide containing two sets of orienting political information for the five candidates: a list of their endorsements and their policy positions on five issues in the campaign. We find turnout among the treated group was 0.9 points higher than the control group which did not receive a guide (33.6% compared with 32.7%; SE is 0.003). We find, however, that treated registrants in above-median household income census tracts are significantly more likely to vote than treated registrants in lower-income census tracts.
The geography of money and politics: Population density, social networks, and political contributions
Authors: Lin Yu-Ru , Kennedy Ryan , Lazer David
Published: November 2017

We examine the social antecedents of contributing to campaigns, with a particular focus on the role of population density and social networking opportunities. Using 10 years of US campaign contribution data from the Federal Election Commission and a national survey of party leaders, we find that recruiting contributors is easier in a densely populated region, where the daily opportunity of individuals being exposed to the same information via their social networks is high. Furthermore, the effect of population density is heterogeneous with respect to mobility: if a region has substantial commuting outflow, the chance of being mobilized from the place of residence decreases, but the chance of mobilization in their place of work increases. This analysis also reveals differences between political parties. Democrats are more dependent on social networking in population dense areas. This difference in the importance of social networking opportunities present in geographical space helps explain macro-level patterns in party fundraising.
Successful treatment of tracheal lymphoma in a Siamese cat
Authors: Bataller Laura , Tamborini Alice , L’Eplattenier Henry , Necova Slavka , Robertson Elise
Published: November 2017

Case summary

An 8-year-old female spayed Siamese indoor cat presented with a 3 week history of inspiratory dyspnoea, stridor and open-mouth breathing after exercise. Laryngoscopy, tracheoscopy, bronchoscopy and retroflexed nasopharyngoscopy were performed, and identified a multilobulated intraluminal mass within the trachea. Brush cytology was performed on the mass but was inconclusive in providing a definitive diagnosis. A CT scan of the neck failed to identify an obvious intraluminal mass and was negative to contrast uptake. Surgery was performed and seven rings of the trachea were removed to enable the complete excision of the mass. Histopathology of the excised mass was consistent with B cell lymphoma. After surgery, chemotherapy treatment was started. At the time of writing, 20 months since diagnosis, the cat remained clinically well, with no clinical signs or recurrence of macroscopic disease on endoscopic evaluation.

Relevance and novel information

Upper airway endoscopy was considered to be an essential diagnostic tool in this case presenting with signs of upper respiratory dyspnoea. Moreover, combined surgery and chemotherapy were considered effective treatments and positively affected the long-term prognosis of this patient.
Bones of democratic contention: Maritime disputes
Authors: Daniels Kelly , Mitchell Sara McLaughlin
Published: November 2017

While no two democratic states have fought an interstate war against each other, democratic dyads experience militarized disputes with some frequency. Previous research suggests that a large percentage of militarized disputes between two democracies involve fishing and oil resources of the sea. Yet this research selects on cases where militarized conflict occurs, and fails to consider whether democracies have more frequent diplomatic conflicts over maritime areas relative to other regime pairings. Analyzing data from the Issue Correlates of War project, which includes diplomatic conflicts over maritime areas (1900–2007) in the Americas, Europe, Middle East, and Asia, this study finds that pairs of democracies have the highest chance of experiencing diplomatic maritime disputes among all pairs of countries in the same region or dyads involving major powers. Three theoretical explanations were empirically evaluated to account for this pattern: (a) greater opportunities for democratic maritime conflicts given higher levels of economic productivity and the sizes of fishing fleets in democratic states, (b) the increasing securitization of maritime issues, especially after the terrorist attacks of September 2001, and (c) variations in the number of democracies across regional contexts. Several illustrative case studies for each theoretical argument are presented. The authors discuss the implications of these findings for the democratic peace literature and the law of the sea regime.
Prevalence and burden of chronic bronchitis symptoms: results from the BOLD study
Authors: Mejza Filip , Gnatiuc Louisa , Buist A. Sonia , Vollmer William M. , Lamprecht Bernd , Obaseki Daniel O. , Nastalek Pawel , Nizankowska-Mogilnicka Ewa , Burney Peter G.J.
Published: November 2017

We studied the prevalence, burden and potential risk factors for chronic bronchitis symptoms in the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study.

Representative population-based samples of adults aged ≥40 years were selected in participating sites. Participants completed questionnaires and spirometry. Chronic bronchitis symptoms were defined as chronic cough and phlegm on most days for ≥3 months each year for ≥2 years.

Data from 24 855 subjects from 33 sites in 29 countries were analysed. There were significant differences in the prevalence of self-reported symptoms meeting our definition of chronic bronchitis across sites, from 10.8% in Lexington (KY, USA), to 0% in Ile-Ife (Nigeria) and Blantyre (Malawi). Older age, less education, current smoking, occupational exposure to fumes, self-reported diagnosis of asthma or lung cancer and family history of chronic lung disease were all associated with increased risk of chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis symptoms were associated with worse lung function, more dyspnoea, increased risk of respiratory exacerbations and reduced quality of life, independent of the presence of other lung diseases.

The prevalence of chronic bronchitis symptoms varied widely across the studied sites. Chronic bronchitis symptoms were associated with significant burden both in individuals with chronic airflow obstruction and those with normal lung function.
Commentary: how will interventional oncology navigate the “valleys of death” for new medical devices?
Authors: Sharma Ricky A , Fumi Lucio , Audisio Riccardo A , Denys Alban , Wood Bradford J , Pignatti Francesco
Published: November 2017

Whereas clinical trials of cancer drugs have methodological standards and conventional primary endpoints, these are not necessarily applicable to the clinical development of loco-regional treatments and new medical devices. The current challenge is to generate high-level clinical evidence for loco-regional treatments to define the benefits for patients. In this article, we argue that, to generate convincing evidence of clinical efficacy and safety, the collective coherence of the entire data package is often more important than the primary endpoint of one clinical trial. We also propose that, when a comprehensive clinical data package is not feasible, limited clinical data can be supplemented with other types of evidence. Emerging life science companies often define the “valley of death” after securing initial investment to translate an early medical device concept to a development stage that is attractive to funders. Unfortunately for this industry, there is a second “valley of death” if the focus and goal is only regulatory approval, to the neglect of clinical acceptance and reimbursement. For the emerging specialism of interventional oncology, it is critical to plan a clear line of sight for each new medical device to avoid the valleys of death and to demonstrate the clinical benefit. Increased international guidance to establish realistic yet convincing standards in this area may avoid attrition of potentially beneficial devices and therapeutic procedures in the valleys of death.
New technique of percutaneous CT fluoroscopy-guided marking before video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for small lung lesions: feasibility of using a 25-gauge needle without local anaesthesia
Authors: Shimamura Yasuteru , Sasaki Shigeru , Shimohira Masashi , Ogino Hiroyuki , Yuki Daisuke , Nakamae Katsumi , Hara Masaki , Shibamoto Yuta
Published: November 2017

Objective:

To retrospectively evaluate the feasibility of CT fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous marking using a 25-gauge needle and indigo carmine before video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for small lung lesions.

Methods:

21 patients, 14 males and 7 females, with a median age of 69 years (range, 40–79), underwent CT fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous VATS marking using a 25-gauge, 70-mm needle and 1.5-ml indigo carmine. The mean diameter of the lung lesions was 14 mm (range, 6–27). We evaluated the technical success rate, surgical success rate and complications related to this procedure by reviewing medical records and images. Technical success was defined as completion of this procedure. Surgical success was defined as resection of the target lesion with negative margins on pathological examination after VATS. Complications that required advanced levels of care were classified as major complications, and the remaining complications were considered minor.

Results:

The technical success rate was 100%. In all cases, VATS was successfully performed as planned, and the target lesion was resected with negative margins on pathological examination after VATS. Thus, the surgical success rate was 100%. Mild pneumothorax was found in two cases, but further treatment was not required. The minor complication rate was 9.5% (2/21), and major complication rate was 0%. Only two patients (9.5%) complained of slight pain upon puncture, but local anaesthesia was not required.

Conclusion:

Percutaneous CT fluoroscopy-guided VATS marking using a 25-gauge needle without local anaesthesia appears feasible and safe.

Advances in knowledge:

This technique expands a possibility of the CT-guided marking.
Γ. Β. Δερτιλής, Λερναίον κράτος, Εκδόσεις Καστανιώτη, Αθήνα 2000, 123 σελ.
Authors: Μακρυδημήτρης Αντώνης
Published: November 2017

[Δεν διατίθεται περίληψη / no abstract available]
Golgi structure formation, function, and post-translational modifications in mammalian cells
Authors: Huang Shijiao , Wang Yanzhuang
Published: November 2017

The Golgi apparatus is a central membrane organelle for trafficking and post-translational modifications of proteins and lipids in cells. In mammalian cells, it is organized in the form of stacks of tightly aligned flattened cisternae, and dozens of stacks are often linked laterally into a ribbon-like structure located in the perinuclear region of the cell. Proper Golgi functionality requires an intact architecture, yet Golgi structure is dynamically regulated during the cell cycle and under disease conditions. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the relationship between Golgi structure formation, function, and regulation, with focus on how post-translational modifications including phosphorylation and ubiquitination regulate Golgi structure and on how Golgi unstacking affects its functions, in particular, protein trafficking, glycosylation, and sorting in mammalian cells.
Rehabilitation following hemorrhagic stroke: building the case for stroke-subtype specific recovery therapies
Authors: Kitago Tomoko , Ratan Rajiv R.
Published: November 2017

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), a form of brain bleeding and minor subtype of stroke, leads to significant mortality and long-term disability. There are currently no validated approaches to promote functional recovery after ICH. Research in stroke recovery and rehabilitation has largely focused on ischemic stroke, but given the stark differences in the pathophysiology between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, it is possible that strategies to rehabilitate the brain in distinct stroke subtypes will be different. Here, we review our current understanding of recovery after primary intracerebral hemorrhage with the intent to provide a framework to promote novel, stroke-subtype specific approaches.
Tax Policy of Russia in 2018–2020
Authors: Смирнов Е. , Smirnov E.
Published: November 2017

In the coming 2018–2020 years, Russia’s fairly well-established tax policy does not seem to have any sharp turns and its main emphasis, apparently, will be on ensuring predictability of fi scal conditions and stability of the tax burden.
The Method of the Didactic Complexity Estimation of Some Issues of the School Mathematics Course
Authors: Майер Роберт , Mayer Robert
Published: November 2017

The complexity of an educational material is proportional to time (or quantity of words), which is necessary for an explanation of this material to the schoolchild with the given level of knowledge. For the estimation of the complexity of some issues of the mathematics school course the method of decomposition of operations on elementary actions, the pair comparisons method were used, and the content-analysis of some paragraphs of textbook was carried out.Thus it was taken into account: the information volumes of the paragraph; the quantities of mathematical symbols in the formulas; the quantities of the new terms which are not included in given level of knowledge; the information volumes of their defi nitions.As a result of the estimation of the didactic complexity of the 27 paragraphs of the school mathematics course we established: during training at school the complexity of issues on mathematics grows approximately in 150-200 times.
Managing the nutritional needs of palliative care patients
Authors: Day Teresa
Published: November 2017

The nutritional needs of patients receiving palliative care should be routinely assessed, taking into account disease trajectory and nutrition-related symptoms. The social and emotional aspects of eating and drinking should also be acknowledged; as should the distress that weight loss and anorexia engenders in patients and their families. Practical strategies to optimise nutritional intake are discussed. Open and sensitive communication of patients' needs and wishes is essential, especially when discussing complementary nutrition approaches. A holistic, multidisciplinary approach is key to meeting nutritional needs, and the goals of nutritional intervention should be regularly reviewed in the light of disease progression.
Design of a Speed Assistant to Minimize the Driver Stress
Authors: Corcoba Magaña Víctor , Muñoz Organero Mario , Álvarez-García Juan Antonio , Fernández Rodríguez Jorge Yago
Published: November 2017

Stress is one of the most important factors in traffic accidents. When the driver is in this mental state, their skills and abilities are reduced. In this paper, we propose an algorithm to estimate the optimal speed to minimize stress levels on upcoming road segments when driving. The prediction model is based on deep learning. The stress level estimation considers the previous driver's driving behavior before reaching the road section to be assessed, the road state (weather and traffic), and the previous drives made by the driver. We use this algorithm to build a speed assistant. The solution provides an optimum average speed for each road segment that minimizes the stress. A validation experiment has been conducted in a real setting using two different types of vehicles. The proposal is able to predict the stress levels given the average speed by 84.20% on average. On the other hand, the speed assistant reduces the stress levels (estimated from the driver’s heart rate signal) and the aggressiveness of driving regardless of the vehicle type. The proposed solution is implemented on Android mobile devices and uses a heart rate chest strap.
Parasitoses intestinais e a inter-relação com os aspectos socioeconômicos de indivíduos residentes em um povoado rural (Rosápolis de Parnaíba-PI)
Authors: Viana Marília Leal , Fialho Neiviane Rodrigues , Rocha Susana Maria Silva , Alves Tomásia Caroline Lopes Amorim , Trindade Reginaldo Almeida da , Melo Ana Carolina Fonseca Lindoso
Published: November 2017

As parasitoses intestinais ainda são problemas de saúde pública devido às altas taxas de morbidade e associação às precárias condições de saneamento e hábitos higiênicos da população. Em comunidades rurais, essas infecções são agravadas pela falta de diagnóstico e tratamento adequado. Portanto, os objetivos deste trabalho foram determinar a prevalência das parasitoses intestinais na comunidade de Rosápolis de Parnaíba-PI e analisar os aspectos socioeconômicos associados. Amostras fecais (n=1377) coletadas de indivíduos em 360 residências foram analisadas pelo método de Hoffman. Paralelamente, informações socioeconômicas e de hábitos higiênicos foram obtidas por um questionário aplicado ao responsável pelo domicílio. Os resultados das análises laboratoriais revelaram uma prevalência global de enteroparasitoses de 53,9% (743/1377). Entre os parasitos encontrados, protozoários e helmintos corresponderam a 70,3% e 15,3%, respectivamente. Infecções mistas (protozoários+helmintos) foram encontradas em 14,2% dos parasitados. Giardia duodenalis foi o protozoário patogênico mais prevalente (25,6%). Entre helmintos, Ascaris lumbricoides (18,8%) e ancilostomídeo (12,6%) foram os mais encontrados. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa quanto ao gênero ou idade dos indivíduos em relação à prevalência. Aspectos socioeconômicos e higiênico-sanitários, tais como consumo de água de torneira sem tratamento (filtração ou fervura) e consumo de vegetais crus e/ou lavados com água da torneira, além de uma alta taxa de “queima” como destino final do lixo, foram os hábitos mais relatados pelos indivíduos. Conclui-se pela alta prevalência de enteroparasitoses nos indivíduos residentes do povoado Rosápolis que essas infecções ainda constituem um importante grupo de doenças preveníveis que afetam as comunidades rurais.
Caracterização morfológica de genótipos de mandioca (Manihot esculenta Crantz)
Authors: Prates Caio Jander Nogueira , Guimarães Douglas Gonçalves , Viana Anselmo Eloy Silveira , Cardoso Adriana Dias , Teixeira Patrick Rayan Gerino , Carvalho Kátia Dias
Published: November 2017

Com o objetivo de avaliar características morfológicas de genótipos de mandioca foi conduzido este experimento no município de Cândido Sales, Sudoeste da Bahia. Utilizou-se o delineamento em blocos casualizados, com três repetições e 28 tratamentos, formados pelos genótipos Amansa Burro, Aramaris, Bom Jardim, Bromadeira, Caipira, Caitité, Caravela, Kiriris, Lagoão, Lavra Velha, Malacacheta, Mulatinha, Parazinha, Peru, Poti Branca, Salangor, Sergipana, Sergipe, Simbé, Tapioqueira, Tussuma, Verdinha, 2006-4, 2006-5, 2006-8, 2006-10 e 2006-12, oriundos da UESB, EMBRAPA/CNPMF e de produtores da região. Sendo que genótipo Sergipe está presente em dois tratamentos, um plantado com manivas coletadas junto aos produtores locais, denominado apenas Sergipe, e outro, denominado Sergipe MR, plantado com manivas originadas do método de multiplicação rápida. O espaçamento utilizado foi 1,0 x 0,6 m, com cada parcela formada por 60 plantas, sendo as 26 centrais consideradas úteis. O plantio foi efetuado em outubro de 2010. Em agosto de 2012 foram avaliadas a altura e diâmetro de plantas; o número de manivas-sementes e de hastes por planta; a porcentagem de mortalidade de plantas e o comprimento, diâmetro e peso de raízes tuberosas. O genótipo Poti Branca se destacou em altura e número de manivas-sementes em plantas. Os dois tratamentos formados pelo genótipo Sergipe (com manivas obtidas dos produtores locais e pelo método de propagação rápida), além dos genótipos Malacacheta e 2006-8 apresentaram as menores taxas de mortalidade de plantas. Maior comprimento de raízes tuberosas foi encontrado no genótipo Tussuma, enquanto raízes mais curtas foram observadas nos genótipos 2006-10 e 2006-8.