bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the hospital costs for two-stage reimplantation for deep infection, single-stage revision and primary total elbow arthroplasty
Authors: Wagner Eric R. , Ransom Jeanine E. , Kremers Hilal Maradit , Morrey Mark , Sanchez-Sotelo Joaquin
Published: May 2017

Background

The purpose of the present study was to determine the cost of two-stage reimplantation for the treatment of deep infection after total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) and compare this with primary and aseptic revision TEA.

Methods

Three hundred and seventy-one primary TEA and 286 revision TEAs (including 47 elbows requiring two-stage reimplantation) were performed. Total direct medical costs during each hospitalization were obtained from our institutional research database and compared for three groups: primary TEA, revision for nonseptic reasons and two-stage reimplantation for deep infection.

Results

The mean cost of an uncomplicated primary TEA and aseptic revision TEA was $18,464 and $18,796, respectively. The mean overall cost associated with two-stage reimplantation increased to $34,286. Two-stage reimplantation increased both Part A (hospital costs) and Part B (professional costs). The mean Part A cost for septic revision TEA was $29,102 versus $15,844 for primary TEA. The mean Part B cost for septic revision TEA was $5,184 versus $2,621 for primary TEA.

Conclusions

Two-stage reimplantation for treatment of an infected TEA costs 186% the hospital cost of a primary uncomplicated or aseptic revision TEA. The overall cost to society is even greater if we take into account the cost of antibiotic therapy in between stages and lost days from work.
The Female Athlete: Key Differences Between Girls and Boys
Authors: Franklin Corinna C. D.
Published: May 2017

Studies have shown female athletes to be subject to different risks than male athletes, even for the same sports and particularly after puberty. The purpose of this article is to identify some of those differences, discuss how treatment for female athletes differs both for healing and prevention, and emphasize key school nurse roles in identifying and responding to female athlete injuries.
Preliminary investigation of self-as-context in people with fibromyalgia
Authors: Yu Lin , Norton Sam , Almarzooqi Sarah , McCracken Lance M
Published: May 2017

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), based on the Psychological Flexibility (PF) model, has been recently applied to fibromyalgia (FM), and appeared effective in improving functioning. However, evidence for some of the processes within the PF model, self-as-context (SAC) in particular, is lacking within this population. The current study validates a measure of SAC, the Self Experiences Questionnaire (SEQ), and preliminarily investigates the role of SAC in relation to functioning in FM. Participants (N = 298, 93.3% women) self-reporting a diagnosis of FM were recruited via the Internet and completed an online survey. Measures included pain, pain acceptance and SAC, as processes, and pain interference, work and social adjustment, depression and depression-related interference, as outcomes. Confirmatory factor analysis of the SEQ suggested a bi-factor structure, with a general factor underlying all items and two sub-factors, self-as-distinction and self-as-observer (χ2 = 46.55, p = .06, comparative fit index (CFI) = .99, Tucker–Lewis Index (TLI) = .99, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = .04). Component factors showed good reliability, Cronbach’s α = .90, and construct validity, supported by significant Pearson’s correlations between SEQ scores, acceptance and outcomes (r = −.14 to −.33). In multiple regression analyses, SEQ scores significantly predicted pain-related interference (β = −.17, p < .05), work and social adjustment (β = −.14, p < .05) and depression (β = −.21, p < .01), but not depression-related interference, after controlling for pain, but only significantly predicted depression after controlling pain acceptance. These preliminary results show potentially important associations between SAC and functioning in people with FM.
Reexamining Foucault on confession and obedience: Peter Schaefer's Radical Pietism as counter-conduct
Authors: Heinämäki Elisa
Published: May 2017

This article engages with Michel Foucault’s idea of confession as the central Christian strategy of subjection or subjectivation and the link he proposes between confession and obedience. The article also wishes to show how confession can become counter-conduct. I apply Foucault’s conceptions to early modern Lutheran confessionalism, elucidating how the confessional apparatus of the orthodox Lutheranism of seventeenth- and eighteenth-century Sweden strived to mold obedient subjects who are able to conduct themselves. I also examine the transformation and overthrow of these subjectivation techniques in Radical Pietism, analyzing a dissident confession of faith by the Radical Pietist Peter Schaefer, who exemplifies perfect subjection, constituting himself as a perfectly obedient subject, and yet a failure of subjectivation in the sense of submission, insofar as for him, obedience becomes a strategy of empowerment.
Risk of histologic Barrett’s esophagus between African Americans and non-Hispanic whites: A meta-analysis
Authors: Alkaddour Ahmad , Palacio Carlos , Vega Kenneth J
Published: May 2017

Background

Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is rare in African Americans (AA). However, the risk difference magnitude in histologic BE prevalence between AA and non-Hispanic whites (nHw) has not been quantified to date.

Objective

The objective of this article is to determine the degree of histologic BE risk difference between AA and nHw.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE were searched for studies reporting histologic BE in AA/nHw for inclusion. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with risk estimates of histologic BE occurrence between AA/nHw were calculated along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Forest plots were used to quantify heterogeneity. Funnel plots and the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool were used to assess bias risk.

Results

Eight studies reported BE histologic confirmation in AA/nHw. Analysis demonstrated a nearly 400% increased histologic BE risk in nHw patients compared to AA (OR 3.949, 95% CI 3.069–5.082). In the model without the case-control study, histologic BE risk remained elevated at approximately 360% in nHw compared to AA (OR 3.618, 95% CI 2.769–4.726). Heterogeneity was not present in either model. Risk of bias was significant.

Conclusions

Histologic BE risk is elevated in nHw by 3.6–4 times compared to AA. Investigation into understanding any clinical, molecular or genetic mechanisms underlying this risk disparity is warranted.
Medical and biological factors affecting mortality in elderly residential fire victims: a narrative review of the literature
Authors: Eggert Erik , Huss Fredrik
Published: May 2017

[Formula: see text]

For older people (aged over 65 years), the risk of dying in a residential fire is doubled compared to the general population. Obvious causes of death mainly include smoke inhalation and burn injuries. That older people are more fragile and have more concurrent diseases is inherent, but what is it that makes them more vulnerable? It is known that the number of elderly people is increasing globally and that the increased risk of death in fires can be explained, at least in part, by physical and/or cognitive disabilities as well as socioeconomic and behavioural factors. The possibility that medical illnesses and an aging organism/tissues might explain this increased risk has not been shown to the same extent. Therefore, this narrative literature review focuses on medical and biological explanations. An initial search using the terms ‘elderly’, ‘fatal’, ‘residential’ and ‘fire’ yielded some interesting articles. Using a broader snowball search also accepting grey literature, several additional risk factors could be identified. Cardiovascular diseases, in particular atherosclerotic heart disease, greatly increases the vulnerability to, for example, carbon monoxide and probably also other asphyxiating gases. Cardiovascular diseases and lack of physical fitness may also increase vulnerability to heat. Burned elderly patients are also at a higher risk of death than younger patients, but it is controversial whether it is age itself or the pre-existing illnesses that come with age that increase the risk. Immunosenescence, malnutrition and female gender are other risk factors for poorer outcome after burns, all of which are common among older people.
From Subcultures to Common Culture: Bodybuilders, Skinheads, and the Normalization of the Marginal
Authors: Johansson Thomas , Andreasson Jesper , Mattsson Christer
Published: May 2017

Using bodybuilders and skinheads/neo-Nazis as two rather diverse examples of subcultures, the present study theoretically explores our understanding of subculture and common culture. The study aims to explore how the concept of subculture can be used analytically in relation to processes of normalization and marginalization. The focus is on the historical, symbolic, and biographical relation between the subculture, the subcultural response, and sociopolitical transformations in society and culture. We are interested in understanding the processes through which, for example, bodybuilding has moved back and forth, over time, between a subcultural position and a more common fitness culture. In parallel to this, we are also interested in how subcultures centered on skinheads, neo-Nazis, and right-wing extremists influence and are connected to more general political transformations and opinions in contemporary society, blurring the distinction between subculture and common culture. The results indicate a complex relation between subcultures and the mainstreaming of certain values, opinions, and practices.
Promoting Resilience Using an Asset-Based Approach to Business Continuity Planning
Authors: Tracey Shannon , O’Sullivan Tracey L. , Lane Daniel E. , Guy Emily , Courtemanche Jill
Published: May 2017

Essential service organizations fulfill critical roles in maintaining public health during a disaster; therefore, business continuity planning is paramount to ensure continued functioning of core operations during a disruption. Business continuity planning is typically oriented around a predict and prevent approach. Asset-mapping activities have the potential to balance the predominantly risk-based approach by focusing on strengths and capability already present within organizations. The purpose of this study is to identify a suite of organizational-level assets that support resilience, and to contribute to the empirical evidence base for business continuity planning. Two focus group consultations with essential service organization representatives ( n = 22) were held in Ottawa, Canada, in March and April 2014, using the Structured Interview Matrix facilitation format. Inductive analysis was used to identify eight emergent themes that highlight the importance of organizational-level assets and their contribution to adaptive capacity. Leadership and culture in adopting and promoting preparedness strategies were predominant themes, as well as the importance of communication and connectedness across micro, meso, and macro levels. A suite of 25 assets were identified and grouped into seven categories: (a) awareness, (b) human resources, (c) information and communication, (d) leadership and culture, (e) operational infrastructure, (f) physical resources, and (g) social capital. This evidence base can be used as a template to guide asset-mapping activities, and support organizations engaging in business continuity planning.
A Critical Analysis of the Financial Efficiency of the Steel Industry in India
Authors: Paul Pinku , Mukherjee Paroma Mitra
Published: May 2017

When one analyses a company’s potential for investment, one has to examine its financial performance from a different angle. A company may be a profitable one but could it do more given the assets it has at its disposal? Management efficiency ratios compare what a company owns to its sales or profit performance and inform investors about a company’s ability. It helps to use what it has to generate the most profit possible for owners and shareholders. In this study, management efficiency is calculated for five major players of steel industry. To calculate the efficiency, five important ratios—inventory turnover, debtor turnover, investment turnover, fixed assets turnover and total assets turnover ratios are taken into consideration. The study is conducted from 2006 to 2015. Mean and two-way ANOVA is used to test the hypothesis.
Impetus and Creation of an Accelerated Second-Degree Baccalaureate Nursing Program Readmission Policy
Authors: Schwartz Joanne , Gambescia Stephen F. , Patton Carol
Published: May 2017

An accelerated second-degree baccalaureate nursing (ASDBN) is an academic plan of study typically 12 to 24 months in duration. ASDBN students make many changes when entering this type of program. Some of the major changes ASDBN students make when entering an ASDBN program include leaving jobs, incurring debt, draining financial resources, forgoing time with children, spouses, and significant others, and, in some cases, relocating far from family and support systems. Because of the nature and scope of the many sacrifices ASDBN students typically make, academic program dismissal is particularly traumatic and devastating. It is not uncommon for an ASDBN student to seek program readmission when they are dismissed for academic reasons. Many academically dismissed ASDBN students seek program readmission. Administrators face a challenging decision in program readmission requests. The key issue with program readmission of ASDBN students is having a rigorous and comprehensive policy to determine which ASDBN students should be readmitted. This article examines one large, private, urban university’s ASDBN program’s readmission policy design and how the policy is applied to manage and determine ASDBN program readmission requests.
Autistic girls and school exclusion: Perspectives of students and their parents
Authors: Sproston Kelda , Sedgewick Felicity , Crane Laura
Published: May 2017

Background and aims

If a child’s behaviour does not conform to school policy or causes harm to either peers or staff, they may be temporarily or permanently excluded from school. Whilst it is unlawful to exclude children due to their needs, school exclusion is common amongst children with special educational needs, including autism. Currently, little is known about experiences of school exclusion from the perspectives of autistic students and/or their parents. This is particularly the case for girls on the autism spectrum.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight autistic girls and their parents (seven mothers, one father). Interviews explored experiences of mainstream schooling; alternative educational provisions that were offered (if any); the school exclusion process; and the girls’ current educational provision. As well as asking the girls and their parents about positive and negative aspects of their past and current experiences, participants were asked to reflect on areas for potential improvements.

Results

Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis and three key themes emerged from the data: inappropriate school environments (including problems with the sensory environment, difficulties when placed with inappropriate peers and general pressures of mainstream classrooms), tensions in school relationships (including problems with staff and peers, alongside a general lack of communication), and problems with staff responses (including a perceived lack of understanding of the girls’ needs and a lack of appropriate support being provided, resulting in ‘battles’ between parents and schools).

Conclusions

The themes and subthemes that emerged from the interviews were not unique to autistic girls. Indeed, issues such as inappropriate school environments, a lack of staff understanding and breakdowns in relationships have been repeatedly raised by parents and young autistic people (mostly boys) in other studies, albeit in different environments. Nevertheless, the results highlight that more needs to be done to positively influence the direction of the girls’ educational journeys.

Implications

To improve the inclusion of autistic girls, it is recommended that educational establishments be proactive in developing inclusive environments, build positive relationships (both in and outside of the classroom) and, if exclusion is unavoidable, better support students both before and after the process.
How I treat recurrent venous thromboembolism in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy
Authors: Schulman Sam
Published: May 2017

Oral anticoagulant therapy for venous thromboembolism is very effective. When oral anticoagulants are managed well, the risk of recurrence is approximately 2 per 100 patient-years. The main reasons for a breakthrough event are underlying disease and subtherapeutic drug levels. The most common underlying disease that results in recurrence on treatment is cancer. Subtherapeutic drug levels can be caused by poor adherence to the drug regimen, interactions with other drugs or food, or inappropriate dosing. It is important to investigate and understand the cause whenever such an event occurs and to improve management of anticoagulants thereby avoiding further recurrences. Here we present 4 illustrative cases together with a discussion of the underlying pathology. Whereas the mechanisms are usually quite well understood, the management of further anticoagulation after a breakthrough event is based on minimal or no clinical trial evidence.
The black hole accretion code
Authors: Porth Oliver , Olivares Hector , Mizuno Yosuke , Younsi Ziri , Rezzolla Luciano , Moscibrodzka Monika , Falcke Heino , Kramer Michael
Published: May 2017

We present the black hole accretion code (), a new multidimensional general-relativistic magnetohydrodynamics module for the  framework. has been designed to solve the equations of ideal general-relativistic magnetohydrodynamics in arbitrary spacetimes and exploits adaptive mesh refinement techniques with an efficient block-based approach. Several spacetimes have already been implemented and tested. We demonstrate the validity of by means of various one-, two-, and three-dimensional test problems, as well as through a close comparison with the  code in the case of a torus accreting onto a black hole. The convergence of a turbulent accretion scenario is investigated with several diagnostics and we find accretion rates and horizon-penetrating fluxes to be convergent to within a few percent when the problem is run in three dimensions. Our analysis also involves the study of the corresponding thermal synchrotron emission, which is performed by means of a new general-relativistic radiative transfer code, . The resulting synthetic intensity maps of accretion onto black holes are found to be convergent with increasing resolution and are anticipated to play a crucial role in the interpretation of horizon-scale images resulting from upcoming radio observations of the source at the Galactic Center.
Global ray-casting range image registration
Authors: Tao Linh , Bui Tam , Hasegawa Hiroshi
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a novel method for pair-wise range image registration, a backbone task in world modeling, parts inspection and manufacture, object recognition, pose estimation, robotic navigation, and reverse engineering. The method finds the most suitable homogeneous transformation matrix between two constructed range images to create a more complete 3D view of a scene. The proposed solution integrates a ray casting-based fitness estimation with a global optimization method called improved self-adaptive differential evolution. This method eliminates the fine registration steps of the well-known iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm used in previously proposed methods, and thus, is the first direct global registration algorithm. With its parallel implementation potential, the ray casting-based algorithm speeds up the fitness calculation for the global optimization method, which effectively exploits the search space to find the best transformation solution. The integration was successfully implemented in a parallel paradigm on a multi-core computer processor to solve a simultaneous 3D localization problem. The fast, accurate, and robust results show that the proposed algorithm significantly improves on the registration problem over state-of-the-art algorithms.
Human blood monocytes are able to form extracellular traps
Authors: Granger Vanessa , Faille Dorothée , Marani Vanessa , Noël Benoît , Gallais Yann , Szely Natacha , Flament Héloïse , Pallardy Marc , Chollet-Martin Sylvie , de Chaisemartin Luc
Published: May 2017

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are extracellular DNA filaments formed during neutrophil activation. This process, called netosis, was originally associated with neutrophil antibacterial properties. However, several lines of evidence now suggest a major role for netosis in thrombosis, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. We demonstrate here that highly purified human blood monocytes are also capable of extracellular trap (ET) release in response to several stimuli. Monocyte ETs display a morphology analogous to NETs and are associated with myeloperoxidase (MPO), lactoferrin (LF), citrullinated histones, and elastase. Monocyte ET release depends on oxidative burst but not on MPO activity, in contrast to neutrophils. Moreover, we demonstrate procoagulant activity for monocyte ETs, a feature that could be relevant to monocyte thrombogenic properties. This new cellular mechanism is likely to have implications in the multiple pathologic contexts where monocytes are implicated, such as inflammatory disorders, infection, or thrombosis.
Avaliação multicritério de desempenho: o caso de um Tribunal de Justiça
Authors: Ensslin Leonardo , Dutra Ademar , Ensslin Sandra Rolim , Krüger Anna Claudia , Gavazini André Antônio
Published: May 2017

A pesquisa desenvolveu um modelo de avaliação de desempenho alinhado aos interesses do gestor público e com o propósito de apoiar suas decisões. O contexto pesquisado corresponde a um setor administrativo e estratégico do Tribunal de Justiça de Santa Catarina (TJSC). A Metodologia Multicritério de Apoio à Decisão Construtivista (MCDA-C) foi o instrumento de intervenção adotado para a obtenção e análise dos dados, por possibilitar construir conhecimento no decisor a respeito do contexto que se propõe avaliar, a partir de sua prória percepção. Como resultados do estudo destacam-se: (i) o desenvolvimento de um modelo de avaliação de desem­penho específico; (ii) a evidenciação de quatro Pontos de Vistas Fundamentais (PVF); (iii) a construção de seis descritores para o PVF “Gestão Interna”, que abrangem aspectos compreendidos pelo decisor como relevantes sobre o tema; (iv) após a aferição do status quo dos indicadores, a identificação de que um dos indicadores da PVF “Gestão Interna” mereceria atuação premente; (v) a verificação de que o modelo construído permite subsidiar o gestor no processo de tomada de decisão no tocante à gestão do desempenho de seu setor; (vi) a viabilidade de replicar o procedimento para construção de modelo próprio para os demais setores que compõem o Tribunal de Justiça de Santa Catarina (TJSC).
Association Between Radiologic Incidental Findings and Resource Utilization in Patients Admitted With Chest Pain in an Urban Medical Center
Authors: Gundareddy Venkat P. , Maruthur Nisa M. , Chibungu Abednego , Bollampally Preetam , Landis Regina , Eid Shaker M.
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Increasing use of testing among hospitalized patients has resulted in an increase in radiologic incidental findings (IFs), which challenge the provision of high‐value care in the hospital setting.

OBJECTIVE

To understand impact of radiologic incidental findings on resource utilization in patients hospitalized with chest pain.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational cross sectional study.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Adult patients hospitalized with principal diagnosis of chest pain.

MEASUREMENTS

Demographic, imaging, and length of stay (LOS) data were abstracted from the medical charts. We used multiple logistic regression to evaluate factors associated with radiologic IFs and negative binomial regression to evaluate the association between radiologic IFs and LOS.

RESULTS

1811 consecutive admissions with chest pain were analyzed retrospectively over a period of 24 months; 376 patients were included in the study after exclusion criteria were applied and readmissions removed. Of these, 197 patients (52%) had 364 new radiologic IFs on imaging; most IFs were of minor (50%) or moderate clinical significance (42%), with only 7% of major significance. Odds of finding radiologic IFs increased with age (adjusted odds ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01‐1.06) and was associated with a 26% increase in LOS (adjusted incidence rate ratio, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.07‐1.49).

CONCLUSION

Radiologic IFs were very common among patients hospitalized with chest pain of suspected cardiac origin and independently associated with an increase in the LOS. Interventions to address radiologic IFs may reduce LOS and, thereby, support high‐value care.
Clinical Utility of Routine CBC Testing in Patients with Community‐Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Vukkadala Neelaysh , Auerbach Andrew
Published: May 2017

The goal of this study was to identify situations in which routine complete blood count (CBC) testing could be avoided in patients with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP). This was a retrospective study of 50 patients with CAP. Vital signs, lab results, assessment and plan data, and computerized provider order entry logs were collected to determine if a lab result or clinical finding changed clinical management. Clinical stability was defined based on Patient Outcomes Research Team study criteria. There were 94 CBCs obtained after admission, of which only 6 were associated with management changes. Only two of these instances involved management changes related to patients' pneumonia, while the other cases represented chronic illnesses. Among all patients, the positive likelihood ratio of a post‐admission CBC predicting a change in clinical management was low (1.12 [95% confidence interval, 0.86‐1.44]). Low utility of CBC testing after admission may represent an opportunity to improve the value of care in CAP patients.
It All Just Clicks: Development of an Inpatient E‐Consult Program
Authors: Najaf Nader , Harrison James D. , Duong Jonathan , Greenberg Anya , Cheng Hugo Quinny
Published: May 2017

Although the use of electronic consultations (e‐consults) in the outpatient setting is commonplace, there is little evidence of their use in the inpatient setting. Often, the only choice hospitalists have is between requesting a time‐consuming in‐person consultation or requesting an informal, undocumented “curbside” consultation. For a new, remote hospital in our healthcare system, we developed an e‐consult protocol that can be used to address simple consultation questions. In the first year of the program, 143 e‐consults occurred; the top 5 consultants were infectious disease, hematology, endocrinology, nephrology, and cardiology. Over the first 4 months, no safety issues were identified in chart review audits; to date, no safety issues have been identified through the hospital's incident reporting system. In surveys, hospitalists were universally pleased with the quality of e‐consult recommendations, though only 43% of consultants agreed. With appropriate care for patient selection, e‐consults can be used to safely and efficiently provide subspecialty expertise to a remote inpatient site.
Myofascial-manual lymphatic drainage for burn trauma: a service evaluation
Authors: Loskotová Anna , Loskotová Jitka , Suchanek Ivan , Brychta Pavel , Lipový Bretislav
Published: May 2017

Improving microcirculation in the area of a wound is an important aspect of wound healing. It can be improved by a new manual methodology: myofascial-manual lymphatic drainage (M-MLD). This hybrid technique uses elements of musculoskeletal medicine and manual lymphatic drainage. Through palpation, M-MLD therapeutically affects the functional pathology of soft tissues, with reflection in trigger points, and also the functional pathology of lymphatic system, namely by lymphostasis in particular regional lymph nodes.

Most cases of post-traumatic and postoperative conditions lead to dynamic insufficiency of the venous system and subsequently of the lymphatic system. If this is not treated promptly, it can lead to secondary post-traumatic lymphoedema. Early M-MLD treatment eliminates the development of secondary post traumatic lymphoedema and even secondary inflammation, thus decreasing the risk of cicatrix hypertrophy and contributing to faster wound healing and better regeneration of the afflicted area. Laboratory immunological examination of circulating immune complexes support 20 years of the authors' empirical experience.

The level of circulating immune complexes before M-MLD reached constant values. After manual influencing of the functional pathology of soft tissue and lymphatic system, the dynamics of circulating immune complexes levels was observed, this is the effect of the improvement of microcirculation in the wound area.

M-MLD is time- and cost-saving, but it requires professional training with a very good palpation technique. In the authors' experience, its use is indicated within 2–24 hours from the time of trauma (surgery), and then once a day until healing is achieved.

This early manual therapeutic treatment can be delivered not only by physiotherapists, but also nurses working to encourage wound healing, such as in traumatology, surgery and orthopaedics. Using M-MLD makes the total treatment time shorter, and has an economical, biopsychosocial and society-wide impact.
A dentist’s brush with cancer
Authors: Khosravi Reza
Published: May 2017

When an active, successful life is interrupted by the late diagnosis of a rare form of lifethreatening abdominal cancer that has spread to multiple organs, the impact of the disease, its treatment and the subsequent recovery period can be profound. Here, an oral surgeon whose brush with cancer and his own mortality led to months of debilitating complications and deep introspection tells his story.
Gendered discourse in the South African Police Service talk and text of domestic violence
Authors: Sinclair Ingrid Maralene
Published: May 2017

Despite working with an enabling gender policy framework, police officials in South Africa are accused of dealing unjustly with complainants of gender-based violence. This article explores and describes the gendered discourse in the talk, text and practice of the police that maintains and reproduces asymmetrical personal and social power relations between the police and domestic violence survivors. The article is based on research findings that revealed that police construct unequal feminine and masculine roles. Their conceptions of these roles are often enmeshed with other relations of power such as class, sex, religion and culture. The article suggests that changing the attitudes and practices of the police requires critical reflection on how violence is contextually embedded and inequality is reproduced at subconscious and structural levels through a process of coloniality long after the demise of colonialism and apartheid.
PERANCANGAN HUG MACHINE WRAP UNTUK ALAT TERAPI AUTISME
Authors: Suryo Sumar Hadi , Raswan Awan , Jamari Jamari , Haryanto Ismoyo
Published: May 2017

Today children born with the syndrome of autism is increasing. People with autism have a greater sensitivity to stimulation motor. This will cause them to feel discomfort when making physical contact with another person. Autism therapy can use the device as a media aide. Media autism therapies to be developed is the hug machine wrap. This media uses the principle of doing deep pressure therapy. At the hug machine made from fabric following the body shape of the user. The fabric binding of the user's body from shoulders to toes. Ballon added as a producer of pressure. Balloon filled with air pressure and the pressure can be regulated. Hug machine wrap designed to create deep pressure by inflating a balloon on inside, fabric pattern design that can cover the shoulder down to the legs will give equal emphasis. Therapeutic application of deep pressure on children with autism are expected to assist in receiving physical contact to the social environment and increase peace of children with autism
ANALISIS KEBOCORAN PIPA REFORMER DI SEBUAH PERUSAHAAN PETROKIMIA
Authors: Nugroho Sri , Rusnaldy Rusnaldy
Published: May 2017

Primary Reformer adalah suatu alat yang dioperasikan pada suhu 600-800oC dan tekanan 30-40 kg/cm2. Alat ini berbentuk tube yang berfungsi untuk memecahkan gas hidrokarbon menjadi hidrogen. Primary reformer dibuat material yang berbeda, pada flange menggunakan material baja karbon dan pada top tube menggunakan material baja tahan karat. Kedua material tersebut disambung dengan menggunakan las GTAW (Gas Tungsten arc Welding) dengan filler metal inconel 82. Namun ditemukan kobocoran antara sambungan flange dengan material baja karbon dan weld metal yang menggunakan filler metal inconel 82. Hal ini diduga karena adanya dark band pada weld metal di batas fusi material baja karbon yang terbentuk akibat temperatur operasi. Masalah yang terjadi ini mengakibatkan terjadinya disbonding atau lepasnya weld metal pada base metal.
Research into properties of dust from domestic central heating boiler fired with coal and solid biofuels
Authors: Konieczyński Jan , Komosiński Bogusław , Cieślik Ewelina , Konieczny Tomasz , Mathews Barbara , Rachwał Tomasz , Rzońca Grzegorz
Published: May 2017

The aim of this research was to assess the content and composition of the pollutants emitted by domestic central heating boilers equipped with an automatic underfeed fuel delivery system for the combustion chamber. The comparative research was conducted. It concerned fuel properties, flue gas parameters, contents of dust (fl y ash) and gaseous substances polluting the air in the flue gases emitted from a domestic CH boiler burning bituminous coal, pellets from coniferous wood, cereal straw, miscanthus, and sunflower husks, coniferous tree bark, and oats and barley grain. The emission factors for dust and gaseous air pollutants were established as they are helpful to assess the contribution of such boilers in the atmospheric air pollution. When assessing the researched boiler, it was found out that despite the development in design and construction, flue gases contained fly ash with a significant EC content, which affected the air quality.
Verteiltparametrische Modellierung und Regelung eines thermischen Festbettspeichers
Authors: Pyta Lorenz , Nolteernsting Felix , Abel Dirk
Published: May 2017

Im Falle variabler Strompreise für solarthermische Kraftwerke ist es notwendig, die Beladungszustände der thermischen
Speicher zur regeln. Hierfür wird eine auf den Solarturm Jülich angepasste verteiltparametrische Modellierung thermischer
Festbettspeicher vorgenommen und diese an realen Messdaten validiert. Auf Basis dieser Modelle findet ein
verteiltparametrischer Reglerentwurf statt, der den optimalen Stelleingriff durch die Lösung reduzierter Modelle des
zugehörigen Optimierungsproblems bestimmt. Zur Durchführung der Modellreduktion werden zwei Methoden zur Bestimmung der
Basisfunktionen untereinander verglichen. Ergebnisse der Modellreduktion werden an Messdaten validiert und der Regler in
der Simulation mit dem nicht reduzierten Modell getestet.
Breast sentinel lymph node biopsy with imaging towards minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Joseph Fredrick Johnson , van Oepen Alexander , Friebe Michael
Published: May 2017

Breast sentinel lymph nodes are still commonly assessed through complete lymph node dissections, which is a time-consuming and radical approach because the nodes are difficult to identify. To prevent false diagnosis and achieve accurate results, minimally invasive, image-guided procedures are applied and constantly improved. The purpose of this paper is to present the currently used imaging modalities ultrasound, fluorescence, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and hybrid imaging methods and comparing their effectiveness for breast sentinel lymph node biopsy. A definition for an ideal imaging system combining efficient minimally invasive techniques with workflow considerations is also discussed. As a conclusion, upcoming imaging methods and their future outlook with areas of advancement are presented.
Development of Basic Infrastructure: An Analysis of South 24 Parganas District in West Bengal, India
Authors: Bagchi Emon
Published: May 2017

Infrastructure provides the fundamental basis for socio-economic development of any country. It acts as the backbone of an economy. Regional disparities in infrastructural development naturally result in uneven development. Infrastructural development has greater significance in less developed areas due to their various inherent deficiencies and imbalances. With regard to this, status of the basic sectors of the infrastructure of South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India has been discussed in this article. This is a less developed area. Comparative analysis on infrastructural achievements at sub-district level has also been made. The study not only points towards the lack of uniform infrastructural development over the entire region, but also towards a tendency for concentration of such growth process in those areas of the district which lie in close proximity to the metropolis of Kolkata.
Geography of FDI from Visegrad Countries in Russia
Authors: Kuznetsov Alexey V. , Nevskaya Anastasia A.
Published: May 2017

The article investigates the Russian place in outward FDI geography of the Visegrad countries. The role of the neighborhood effect is shown. With the help of the authors’ special methodology for FDI calculations which overcomes deficiencies in the Bank of Russia’s statistics, the distribution of the Visegrad group’s FDI between Russian regions is studied. The authors demonstrate the presence of a hierarchical-wave model of spatial diffusion of FDI by investors in retail and banking. At the same time, it is found that Moscow and its surrounding dominate the recipient regions. It is also shown that Visegrad group investments in Russia are mostly made by enterprises which remove any political component. As a result, their FDI expansion to the Russian market is likely to continue as soon as the Russian economy returns to growth.
Nonlinear free vibration analysis of elastically supported carbon nanotube-reinforced composite beam with the thermal environment in non-deterministic framework
Authors: Chaudhari Virendra Kumar , Shegokar Niranjan L. , Lal Achchhe
Published: May 2017

This paper deals with the investigation of nonlinear free vibration behavior of elastically supported carbon nanotube reinforced composite (CNTRC) beam subjected to thermal loading with random system properties. Material properties of each constituent’s material, volume fraction exponent and foundation parameters are considered as uncorrelated Gaussian random input variables. The beam is supported by a Pasternak foundation with Winkler cubic nonlinearity. The higher order shear deformation theory (HSDT) with von-Karman non-linearity is used to formulate the governing equation using Hamilton principle. Convergence and validation study is carried out through the comparison with the available results in the literature for authenticity and accuracy of the present approach used in the analysis. First order perturbation technique (FOPT),Second order perturbation technique (SOPT) and Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) methods are employed to investigate the effect of geometric configuration, volume fraction exponent, foundation parameters, distribution of reinforcement and thermal loading on nonlinear vibration characteristics CNTRC beam.The present work signifies the accurate analysis of vibrational behaviour influences by different random variables. Results are presented in terms of mean, variance (COV) and probability density function (PDF) for various aforementioned parameters.
Hepatoprotective effects of Vaccinium arctostaphylos against CCl4-induced acute liver injury in rats
Authors: Ravan Alireza Pouyandeh , Bahmani Mahdi , Ghasemi Basir Hamid Reza , Salehi Iraj , Oshaghi Ebrahim Abbasi
Published: May 2017

Background:

This study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Vaccinium arctostaphylos (V.a) methanolic extract on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury in Wistar rats.

Methods:

Total phenolic and total flavonoid contents as well as antioxidant activity of V.a were determined. Extracts of V.a at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg were administered by oral gavage to rats once per day for 7 days and then were given an intraperitoneal injection of 1 mL/kg CCl4 (1:1 in olive oil) for 3 consecutive days. Serum biochemical markers of liver injury, oxidative markers, as well as hydroxyproline (HP) content and histopathology of liver were evaluated.

Results:

The obtained results showed that V.a had strong antioxidant activity. Treatment of rats with V.a blocked the CCl4-induced elevation of serum markers of liver function and enhanced albumin and total protein levels. The level of hepatic HP content was also reduced by the administration of V.a treatment. Histological examination of the liver section revealed that V.a prevented the occurrence of pathological changes in CCl4-treated rats.

Conclusions:

These findings suggested that V.a may be useful in the treatment and prevention of hepatic injury induced by CCl4.
IgG,kappa monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance with AL amyloidosis simulating giant cell arteritis
Authors: Pompilian Valer Mihai , Tănăseanu Ştefăniţă , Badea Camelia , Zurac Sabina , Socoliuc Claudiu , Badelita Sorina , Botez Elena , Antohe Mihaela
Published: May 2017

Monoclonal gammopathies complicated by AL amyloidosis can mimic giant cell arteritis (GCA). We hereby present the case of a 63 year old woman in whom symptoms consistent with GCA were the first manifestations of a monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS) associated with amyloidosis. A 63 year old woman was admitted for temporal headache, maseterine claudication, neck and shoulder stiffness. She was recently diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. On physical examination she had prominent temporal arteries, macroglosia and orthostatic hypotension. Muscular strength was normal. She had high ESR and CRP; in this clinical context, GCA was suspected. A gamma spike on serum protein electrophoresis raised the suspicion of monoclonal gammopathy (MG). Immunoelectrophoresis revealed monoclonal bands for IgG and kappa chains. Massive deposits of amyloid and no inflammation were found on temporal artery biopsy. Multiple myeloma and lymphoma were ruled out. A diagnosis of AL amyloidosis complicating MGUS was formulated. She did well on therapy with bortezomib, cyclophosphamide and dexamethasone. Cases published in medical literature reveal amyloidosis mimicking GCA in the setting of established MGUS. As far as we know, this is the first case of MGUS with IgG and kappa chains in which a GCA-like picture induced by amyloidosis was present from the very onset.
Original study. The clinical value of foam posturography in assessing patients with peripheral vestibular dysfunction – our experience
Authors: Enache Raluca , Sarafoleanu Dorin , Sarafoleanu Codrut
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND. Computerized dynamic posturography is the most important battery test designed to assess the ability to use visual, vestibular and proprioceptive cues in the maintenance of posture. Foam posturography reduces the availability of proprioceptive inputs, which makes more difficult the balance control.

OBJECTIVE. The objective of the study was to assess the clinical use of foam posturography in evaluating peripheral vestibular dysfunction.

MATERIAL AND METHODS. We evaluated 41 patients with vestibular disorders and 41 normal patients by using the sensory organization test in eyes opened, eyes closed and mislead vision conditions with and without the foam. We measured several parameters: the position of the center of pressure, the displacement in the center of pressure in anteroposterior and mediolateral planes and Romberg’s ratio on static and foam rubber.

RESULTS. The values of all parameters were significantly higher in patients with peripheral vestibular disorders than in the control group (p<0.05). Also. comparing the Romberg test results, the foam surface used by the patient was larger than the static one.

CONCLUSION. Foam posturography can be a reliable test in assessing patients with peripheral vestibulopathy, being also able to identify the visual and proprioceptive dependence levels.
Modeling of Coolant Flow Within the Spent Fuel Storage Pool of a VVER 440 Reactor
Authors: Gálik Gabriel , Kutiš Vladimír , Jakubec Jakub , Paulech Juraj , Sedlár Tibor
Published: May 2017

The article deals with modelling of coolant flow within the spent fuel storage pool of a VVER 440 reactor. The spent fuel storage pool is modelled in a state of standard reactor operation. The coolant heating from the remaining thermal power of stored spent fuel assemblies was also modelled.
Migrant Background and Access to Vocational Education in Germany: Self-Selection, Discrimination, or Both?
Authors: Tjaden Jasper Dag
Published: May 2017

Germany’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector is the major channel for the integration of a growing number of students with a migrant background – a group that is overrepresented among non-university school tracks leading towards VET. However, their participation in VET is lower compared to Germans. I argue that previous studies have neglected the role of educational preferences in explaining these disparities. Building on the literature on secondary effects of ethnic origin, I test whether migrants self-select into academic tracks to pursue higher academic qualifications and to what extent this selection explains ethnic inequality in VET access. Using a longitudinal sample of students at the end of lower secondary education (NEPS, N=6247), this study shows that self-selection accounts for 40% of ethnic disparities in VET access. However, further analysis reveals that self-selection at this stage should be understood as complementary to, rather than competing with, alternative explanations, such as discrimination. Implications for research and policy are discussed.
Heroes of the Engram
Authors: Josselyn Sheena A. , Köhler Stefan , Frankland Paul W.
Published: May 2017

In 1904, Richard Semon introduced the term “engram” to describe the neural substrate responsible for (or at least important in) storing and recalling memories (i.e., a memory trace). The recent introduction of a vast array of powerful new tools to probe and manipulate memory function at the cell and neuronal circuit level has spurred an explosion of interest in studying the engram. However, the present “engram renaissance” was not borne in isolation but rather builds on a long tradition of memory research. We believe it is important to acknowledge the debts our current generation of scientists owes to those scientists who have offered key ideas, persevered through failed experiments and made important discoveries before us. Examining the past can also offer a fresh perspective on the present state and future promise of the field. Given the large amount of empirical advances made in recent years, it seems particularly timely to look back and review the scientists who introduced the seminal terminology, concepts, methodological approaches, and initial data pertaining to engrams. Rather than simply list their many accomplishments, here we color in some details of the lives and milestone contributions of our seven personal heroes of the engram (Richard Semon, Karl Lashley, Donald Hebb, Wilder Penfield, Brenda Milner, James McConnell, and Richard Thompson). In reviewing their historic role, we also illustrate how their work remains relevant to today's studies.