bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-World Effectiveness of Lipid-Lowering Therapy in Male and Female Outpatients with Coronary Heart Disease: Relation to Pre-Treatment Low-Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol, Pre-Treatment Coronary Heart Disease Risk, and other Factors
Authors: Krobot Karl J. , Yin Donald D. , Alemao Evo , Steinhagen-Thiessen Elisabeth
Published: May 2017

Background

Determinants of the real-world effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapy have been rarely assessed in an unselected observational coronary heart disease (CHD) community cohort over time.

Design

Randomly drawn patients (n = 605) from randomly drawn practices (n = 62) were retrospectively followed for a median of 3.6 years (1998-2002) on lipid-lowering therapy (98% statins).

Methods

Coronary heart disease population-averaged estimates and variances accounting for repeated measurements within patients were obtained using generalized estimating equations.

Results

Post-treatment low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) was 124 mg/dl in men and 141 mg/dl in women and was independently associated (all P<0.05) with pre-treatment LDL-C (+ 3.7 mg/dl per 10 mg/dl increment), female sex (+ 14.0 mg/dl), coronary bypass (-9.5 mg/dl), drug-treated diabetes mellitus (-6.8 mg/dl), and era 2002/2001 versus 1999/2000 (- 6.4 mg/dl) in age-adjusted multivariate analyses. Holding pre-treatment LDL-C constant post-treatment LDL-C was associated with pre-treatment Framingham CHD risk in men (- 13.9 mg/dl per doubling of risk), whereas LDL-C control in women resembled that in low-risk men. The likelihood of attaining LDL-C < 100 mg/dl was 0.28 in men and 0.17 in women and was likewise associated with the above factors.

Conclusion

Low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol control remained low despite lipid-lowering therapy across a wide range of pre-treatment LDL-C and pre-treatment CHD risk. Low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol control in women was inferior to that in men, a finding that warrants attention and clarification. Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil 12:37-45 © 2005 The European Society of Cardiology
Impact of Cigarette Smoking in High-Risk Patients Participating in a Clinical Trial. A Substudy from the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation (HOPE) Trial
Authors: Dagenais Gilles R. , Yi Qilong , Lonn Eva , Sleight Peter , Ostergren Jan , Yusuf Salim
Published: May 2017

Background

In recent large cardiovascular trials done in stable patients, 14-31% of the participants were smokers; the consequences of smoking in these trials using medications known to reduce cardiovascular events, have not been assessed.

Design

We evaluated the cardiovascular outcomes according to smoking status of men and women participating in the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation trial.

Methods

The occurrence of cardiovascular events was documented among participants who did not change their smoking status during the trial. There were 2728 ‘never smokers’, 5241 ‘former smokers’ and 936 ‘current smokers’, and all had stable cardiovascular disease or diabetes with at least one other risk factor. None had previous congestive heart failure or known left ventricular ejection fraction < 0.40.

Results

During the 4.5-year follow-up, there were 641 cardiovascular deaths, 978 myocardial infarctions, 358 strokes and 1021 deaths. In comparison to ‘never smokers’, smokers had relative risks adjusted for confounding variables including medications known to reduce cardiovascular mortality and morbidity, for cardiovascular death of 1.65 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.28-2.14], for myocardial infarction of 1.26 (95% CI, 1.01-1.58), for stroke of 1.42 (95% CI, 1.00-2.04), and for total mortality of 1.99 (95% CI, 1.63-2.44). The rates of these events among ‘former smokers’ were not different from those of ‘never smokers’.

Conclusions

Smoking increased the risk of mortality and morbidity among high-risk patients despite the use of medications known to reduce cardiovascular events. Smoking cessation programs should be reinforced even for patients participating in clinical trials.
Clinical outcomes of patients with acute coronary syndrome and moderate or severe chronic anaemia undergoing coronary angiography or intervention
Authors: Ohana-Sarna-Cahan Lea , Atar Shaul
Published: May 2017

Background:

There are limited data on the impact of chronic moderate or severe anaemia on the clinical outcomes of patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods:

We retrospectively compared two groups of consecutive patients with acute coronary syndrome according to their haemoglobin level on admission. The research group ( n=89) had a haemoglobin level of 10.9 g/dl or less and a control group ( n=79) of age-matched patients had a haemoglobin level greater than 10.9 g/dl. We studied drug therapy before, during and after intervention, and performed 1-year follow-up of bleeding complications according to the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium criteria, all-cause mortality and re-infarction, as well as haemoglobin level on discharge, 6 and 12 months after admission.

Results:

Compared to controls, a haemoglobin level less than 10.9 g\dl on admission is associated with a higher rate of major bleeding: 26 patients (32%) versus none in the control group ( P<0.001); and the use of packed red blood cell (RBC) transfusion: nine patients (11.7%) versus none in the control group ( P=0.003) within the first 6 months post-catheterisation. However, the re-infarction rate and mortality were similar in the study and control groups: 9.2% versus 9.7% ( P=0.915) and 12.6% versus 8.9% ( P=0.434), accordingly.

Conclusions:

Chronic moderate or severe anaemia in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention is associated with a substantially increased risk of bleeding in the first 6 months. However, rates of mortality and re-infarction were similar.
Effects of concussion on the blood–brain barrier in humans and rodents
Authors: Sahyouni Ronald , Gutierrez Paula , Gold Eric , Robertson Richard T , Cummings Brian J
Published: May 2017

Traumatic brain injury and the long-term consequences of repeated concussions constitute mounting concerns in the United States, with 5.3 million individuals living with a traumatic brain injury-related disability. Attempts to understand mechanisms and possible therapeutic approaches to alleviate the consequences of repeat mild concussions or traumatic brain injury on cerebral vasculature depend on several aspects of the trauma, including: (1) the physical characteristics of trauma or insult that result in damage; (2) the time “window” after trauma in which neuropathological features develop; (3) methods to detect possible breakdown of the blood–brain barrier; and (4) understanding different consequences of a single concussion as compared with multiple concussions. We review the literature to summarize the current understanding of blood–brain barrier and endothelial cell changes post-neurotrauma in concussions and mild traumatic brain injury. Attention is focused on concussion and traumatic brain injury in humans, with a goal of pointing out the gaps in our knowledge and how studies of rodent model systems of concussion may help in filling these gaps. Specifically, we focus on disruptions that concussion causes to the blood–brain barrier and its multifaceted consequences. Importantly, the magnitude of post-concussion blood–brain barrier dysfunction may influence the time course and extent of neuronal recovery; hence, we include in this review comparisons of more severe traumatic brain injury to concussion where appropriate. Finally, we address the important, and still unresolved, issue of how best to detect possible breakdown in the blood–brain barrier following neurotrauma by exploring intravascular tracer injection in animal models to examine leakage into the brain parenchyma.
Biomechanical Head-to-Head Comparison of 2 Sutures and the Giftbox Versus Bunnell Techniques for Midsubstance Achilles Tendon Ruptures
Authors: Van Dyke Rufus O. , Chaudhary Sejul A. , Gould Gregory , Trimba Roman , Laughlin Richard T.
Published: May 2017

Background:

Acute midsubstance Achilles tendon ruptures are a common orthopaedic problem for which the optimal repair technique and suture type remain controversial. Head-to-head comparisons of current fixation constructs are needed to establish which stitch/suture combination is most biomechanically favorable.

Hypothesis:

Of the tested fixation constructs, Giftbox repairs with Fiberwire will exhibit superior stiffness and strength during biomechanical testing.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Two biomechanical trials were performed, isolating stitch technique and suture type, respectively. In trial 1, 12 transected fresh-frozen cadaveric Achilles tendon pairs were randomized to receive either the Giftbox-modified Krackow or the Bunnell stitch with No. 2 Fiberwire suture. Each repair underwent cyclic loading, oscillating between 10 and 100 N at 2 Hz for 1000 cycles, with repair gapping measured at 500 and 1000 cycles. Load-to-failure testing was then performed, and clinical and catastrophic failure values were recorded. In trial 2, 10 additional paired cadaveric Achilles tendons were randomized to receive a Giftbox repair with either No. 2 Fiberwire or No. 2 Ultrabraid. Testing and data collections protocols in trial 2 replicated those used in trial 1.

Results:

In trial 1, the Bunnell group had 2 failures during cyclic loading while the Giftbox had no failures. The mean tendon gapping after cyclic loading was significantly lower in the Giftbox repairs (0.13 vs 2.29 mm, P = .02). Giftbox repairs were significantly stiffer than Bunnell (47.5 vs 38.7 N/mm, P = .019) and showed more tendon elongation (5.9 ± 0.8 vs 4.5 ± 1.0 mm, P = .012) after 1000 cycles. Mean clinical load to failure was significantly higher for Giftbox repairs (373 vs 285 N, P = .02), while no significant difference in catastrophic load to failure was observed (mean, 379 vs 336 N; P = .61). In trial 2, there were no failures during cyclic loading. The Giftbox + Fiberwire repairs recorded higher clinical load-to-failure values compared with Giftbox + Ultrabraid (mean, 361 vs 239 N; P = .005). No other biomechanical differences were observed in trial 2.

Conclusion:

Simulated early rehabilitation biomechanical testing showed that Giftbox-modified Krackow Achilles repair technique with Fiberwire suture was stronger and more resistant to gap formation at the repair site than combinations that incorporated the Bunnell stitch or Ultrabraid suture.

Clinical Relevance:

A more in-depth understanding of the biomechanical properties of the Giftbox repair will help inform surgical decision making because stronger repairs are less likely to fail during accelerated postoperative rehabilitation.
Factors influencing migration of female workers: a case of Bangladesh
Authors: Sultana Humera , Fatima Ambreen
Published: May 2017

Unemployment and low wages prevailing in the domestic market pushes female workers to look for better employment abroad. Investment in the shape of remittance further builds human capital, financial capital, and the social capital. The aim of this study is to analyze the trend of Bangladeshi female migrant flow by time and destination. In addition, the study also makes assessment of (i) economic factors (macro and labor market indicators), (ii) demographic factors, and (iii) noneconomic factors, such as religion and distance forcing females to migrate. Time series data for the period 2000 to 2012 is employed to investigate the push and pull factors of female migration. The dynamic panel data approach, generalized method of moments (GMM), is used for estimation purpose. The study concludes that skilled enhancement is a basic need for unskilled migrant.

JEL Classification:F-22, J-16, J-71
ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕ КОМПЬЮТЕРНЫХ ТЕХНОЛОГИЙ ПРИ ПРОВЕДЕНИИ ДИСПАНСЕРИЗАЦИИ ДЕТСКОГО НАСЕЛЕНИЯ РЕСПУБЛИКИ ТЫВА
Authors: Gritsinskaya Vera Lyudvigovna , Moskalenko Olga Leonidovna
Published: May 2017

Цель. Оптимизация диспансеризации детского населения Тывы с использованием автоматизированной стандартизированной оценки параметров.Материалы и методы. Исследование проведено в два этапа. На первом этапе проведено обследование 7416 детей и подростков коренного и пришлого населения Республики Тыва в возрасте от 3 до 18 лет. Обследование включало соматометрию, кистевую динамометрию, измерение артериального давления и подсчет числа сердечных сокращений. На основании этих данных разработаны региональные нормативы антропометрических показателей и создана программа для ЭВМ «АИСТ, позволяющая оценивать уровень физического развития, физической подготовленности и функциональные резервы организма детей. На втором этапе проведена оценка данных, полученных при медицинских осмотрах 1879 школьников, с помощью разработанной программы.Результаты. Установлено, что значительная часть обследованных школьников имеет дисгармоничные варианты физического развития и высокую интенсивность ростовых процессов, что позволяет отнести их в группу риска вероятного снижения резистентности и работоспособности. Наиболее вероятными и управляемыми факторами, способствующими возникновению отклонений в росте и развитии детей, является нерациональное, несбалансированное питание и нарушение пищевого поведения, низкая двигательная активность.Заключение. Внедрение программы в практику здравоохранения позволило оптимизировать проведение диспансерных осмотров и создать компьютерные базы данных обследования детского населения.
КЛЕТОЧНЫЕ ТЕХНОЛОГИИ В КОРРЕКЦИИ НАРУШЕНИЙ МЕТАБОЛИЗМА ЭРИТРОЦИТОВ ПРИ ОСТРОМ ТОКСИЧЕСКОМ ПОРАЖЕНИИ ПЕЧЕНИ
Authors: Terekhova Svetlana Vladimirovna , Yasnetsov Viktor Vladimirovich , Lebedev Aleksandr Valer’evich
Published: May 2017

Цель. Установление эффективности использования аллогенных гепатоцитов и мексидола в коррекции нарушений содержания белков и липидов мембран и показателей метаболизма эритроцитов в условиях острого токсического поражения печени.Материалы и методы. Исследования проведены на 65 крысах-самцах Вистар. Острое токсическое поражение печени моделировали путем внутримышечного введения четыреххлористого углерода. Выделение аллогенных гепатоцитов от животных через 5–6 дней после рождения производилась по методике M.N. Berry, D.S. Friend. Мексидол вводили одновременно с токсикантом, пятикратно, через 24 часа, внутрибрюшинно в дозе 50 мг/кг отдельно или вместе с аллогенными гепатоцитами.Результаты. В статье изложены данные о нарушениях содержания белков и липидов мембран и показателей метаболизма эритроцитов у экспериментальных животных в условиях острого токсического поражения печени (ОТПП), вызванного введением четыреххлористого углерода. В работе определена эффективность использования аллогенных гепатоцитов и мексидола в коррекции нарушенных показателей липидного спектра мембран и метаболизма эритроцитов у животных при ОТПП.Заключение. Эффект мексидола при остром токсическом поражении печени обусловлен нормализацией липидного обмена в клеточной мембране и, соответственно, белкового спектра мембран.Область применения результатов. Полученные результаты могут быть использованы при разработке эффективных способов коррекции метаболических нарушений при различных видах патологии печени.
Compromise or be compromised
Authors: Mortensen Neil
Published: May 2017

Sometimes surgeons just have to make do with what they’ve got in the time they’ve got.
Diversity of bees and their interaction networks with Ludwigia sericea (Cambessides) H. Hara and Ludwigia peruviana (L.) H. Hara (Onagraceae) flowers in a swamp area in the Brazilian Atlantic Foresteae) flowers in Atlantic Forest Area in Southern Brazil
Authors: Gonçalves Lia , Buschini Maria Luiza Tunes
Published: May 2017

In Southern Brazil the great diversity of bees is due to the richness of ecosystems in the region and when studies attribute the processes for identification of the floral resources used by bees we can get important steps for the elaboration of management and conservation plans of the species involved. Based on this setting and considering that the study area is a "várzea" (swamp) with a large concentration of flowers of Ludwigia sericea and Ludwigia peruviana, important sources of resources for bees, the aim of this study was to find out about the floral visitor bees and through palynological studies and interaction networks, understand the role of these plants as providers of  pollengrains to bees and how the bees interact with them and other plants, also found in this habitat. Ludwigia sericea, Ludwigia peruviana and the other plant species are presented as generalist in the interactions with the bee species, and the same occurs for most of the bee species in relation to these plants. Generalist bee species (Bombus pauloensis, Apis mellifera, Augochlora amphitrite and Melissoptila paraguayensis) tend to be more abundant and more resistant to disturbances than the specialist species. It was the first time that Plebeia emerina, Centris varia, Mourella caerulea and Augochlorella ephyra were recorded on the Ludwigia flowers in Brazil. Based on the results presented in this study, these plants are important for maintaining the bee community in the region of the Atlantic Forest in Southern Brazil, because they provide resources (nectar and pollen) to bee species that only occur in this region.
The Similar Usage of a Common Key Resource Does Not Determine Similar Responses by Species in A Community of Oil-collecting Bees
Authors: Aguiar Cândida Maria Lima , Lua Shantala , Silva Maise , Peixoto Paulo Enrique Cardoso , Alvarez Heiddy M , Santos Gilberto Marcos de Mendonça
Published: May 2017

Variations in abundance and species richness among communities are often determined by interactions between biotic and abiotic factors. However, for communities composed of species that share a common specialization (such as similar foraging adaptations) it may be a key ecological factor involved in the common specialization that affects community variations. To evaluate this possibility, we characterized the guild of oil-collecting bees of a Neotropical savanna in Brazil and tested whether differences in Byrsonima abundance and availability of floral oil explain differences in species richness and abundance of oil-collecting bees of different tribes. Both the number of species and total abundance of Centridini species increased with the abundance of Byrsonima. One plausible explanation for the stronger adjustment between the abundance of Centridini and Byrsonima is that the abundance of these plants affects not only the availability of floral oil, but also of pollen. These findings indicate that the existence of a common specialization among different species does not homogenize their response to variations in a common explored resource.
The use of light to enhance weaver ant Oecophylla longinoda Latreille (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) queen catches
Authors: Nene Wilson A. , Offenberg Joachim , Rwegasira Gration M , Mwatawala Maulid W
Published: May 2017

Production of live weaver ant (Oecophylla longinoda and O. smaragdina) colonies is being developed as the ants provide several ecosystem services in agriculture and as they are used in education and research laboratories. Founding queens needed for colony production can be caught in artificial nests made of live leaves that are curled on trees. In this study we investigated if the catch rate of O. longinoda queens in artificial nests could be improved by attracting queens to trees with a light source (electric torches). We compared catch rates of 50 artificial nests on each of eight citrus trees, four of them with light and four without light. During two mating seasons covering 9 mating flights we caught a total of 178 queens. However, 3.8 times more queens were caught in the trees with light compared to trees without light. We conclude that queen catches can be highly improved by combining artificial nests with an attracting light source.
Exploitation of Floral Resources and Niche Overlap within an Oil-collecting Bee Guild (Hymenoptera, Apidae) in a Neotropical Savanna
Authors: Aguiar Cândida Maria Lima , Caramés Juliana , França Flavio , Melo Efigenia
Published: May 2017

Oil bees exploit host plants for resources to feed the adults and offspring, as well as for the construction of their nests. The aim of the current study is to investigate how the species in this guild distribute their foraging effort, and the range in their niche overlap levels. The bees were sampled for six months, during their visits to the flowers in a savanna (“cerrado”). These oil-bee species explored the floral resources provided by 13 plant species. The trophic niche of the most abundant species, Centris aenea Lepeletier, was relatively narrow, similarly to those of Epicharis species. Low overlap of trophic niches (TrNO≤30%) was most commonly found. The distribution of bee visits to the host plants revealed redundancy in the floral resource exploitation. However, the foraging concentration levels in some key plants were different for distinct oil-bee species, and it contributed to the low overlap of niches between many pairs of species
Risk factors for miliary tuberculosis in children
Authors: Magdalena Clarissa Cita , Utomo Budi , Setyoningrum Retno Asih
Published: May 2017

Background Miliary tuberculosis (TB) is a fatal form of tuberculosis with severe clinical symptoms and complications. The mortality rate from this disease remains high, therefore, it is important to identify the risk factors for miliary TB for early detection and treatment.Objective To identify risk factors for miliary tuberculosis in children.Methods A case-control study of children aged 0-14 years with miliary TB was conducted in Dr. Soetomo Hospital from 2010 to 2015. Data were taken from medical records. Case subjects were children with miliary TB, and control subjects were children with pulmonary TB . Patients with incomplete medical records were excluded. Case subjects were identified from the total patient population; control subjects were included by purposive sampling, with case:control ratio of 1:1. Potential risk factors were age, nutritional status, BCG immunization status, and history of contact with TB patients. Statistical analyses were done with Chi-square and logistic regression tests. P values < 0.05 were considered to be statistically significant.Results A total of 72 children were analyzed, with 36 case and 36 control subjects. Nutritional status had a significant associatation with miliary TB in children (OR 3.182; 95%CI 1.206 to 8.398; P=0.018) in both bivariate and multivariate analyses. The probability of a child with moderate or severe undernutrition developing miliary TB was 76.09%. Other factors were not significantly associated with miliary TB.Conclusion Nutritional status is significantly associated with miliary TB in children, and moderate or severe undernutrition increases the risk for developing miliary TB.
Blood pressure-to-height ratio for diagnosing hypertension in adolescents
Authors: Ambarita Kristina , Ramayani Oke Rina , Lubis Munar , Fujiati Isti Ilmiati , Ramayati Rafita , Rusdidjas Rusdidjas
Published: May 2017

Background Diagnosing hypertension in children and adolescents is not always straightforward. The blood pressure-to-height ratio (BPHR) has been reported as a screening tool for diagnosing hypertension.Objective To evaluate the diagnostic value of blood pressure-to-height ratio for evaluating hypertension in adolescents.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 432 healthy adolescents aged 12-17 years in Singkuang, North Sumatera from April to May 2016. Blood pressure tables from the National High Blood Pressure Education Program (NHBPEP) Working Group on High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents were used as our standard of comparison. Sex-specific systolic and diastolic blood pressure-to-height ratios (SBPHR and DBPHR) were calculated. ROC curve analyses were performed to assess the accuracy of BPHR for discriminating between hypertensive and non-hypertensive adolescents. Optimal thresholds of BPHR were determined and validated using 2x2 table analyses.Results The accuracies of BPHR for diagnosing hypertension were > 90% (P<0.001), for both males and females. Optimal SBPHR and DBPHR thresholds for defining hypertension were 0.787 and 0.507 in boys, respectively, and 0.836 and 0.541 in girls, respectively. The sensitivities of SBPHR and DBPHR in both sexes were all >93%, and specificities in both sexes were all >81%. Positive predictive values for SBPHR and DBPHR were 38.7% and 45.2% in boys, respectively; and 55.9% and 42.4% in girls, respectively; negative predictive values in both sexes were all >97%, positive likelihood ratios in both sexes were all >5, and negative likelihood ratios in both sexes were all <1.Conclusion Blood pressure-to-height ratio is a simple screening tool with high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing hypertension in adolescents.
Wide-spectrum biomimetic antimicrobial systems
Authors: Wright Heidi A. , Brehm-Stecher Byron F.
Published: May 2017

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are effective components of the host immune response and are widely distributed throughout nature. Recently, nontoxic antimicrobial polymers that mimic the structures of naturally occurring AMPs have been designed and are under development commercially as novel therapeutics. These compounds have several potential advantages over natural AMPs, including greater stability and reduced immunogenicity compared to natural peptides, relatively simple and scalable syntheses and the ability to tailor or “fine tune” their activities through combinatorial approaches. In previous work, we demonstrated the utility of certain generally regarded as safe (GRAS) flavorant and aroma compounds as enhancers of uptake and activity of clinically important antibiotics (Brehm-Stecher & Johnson, 2003). Here, we have extended this approach to include enhancement of biomimetic antimicrobial polymers. Three low molecular weight (<1000 D), broad-spectrum arylamide polymers (PolyMedix, Inc., Radnor, PA) were examined for their antimicrobial activities against gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria, yeast and filamentous fungi, both alone and when co-administered with sesquiterpenoid enhancers. Assay formats included disk diffusion, automated turbidimetry, time course (kinetic) plating of antimicrobial-treated cell suspensions, outer membrane assays with 1-N-phenylnaphthylamine (NPN) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Although results differed according to the polymer and test organism used, treatments containing sesquiterpenoids were marked by either increased ZOIs, decreased MICs or more rapid inactivation when compared with polymer-only treatments. Antimicrobial activity, expressed as decimal reduction times (D-value), showed that after 5 min, the combination of sesquiterpenoid and polymer was significantly different from the controls (p < 0.05) with a D-value of 3.92 min when incubated with Escherichia coli ATCC 25922. Collectively, our results indicate that the combination of sesquiterpenoid-enhancing agents with biomimetic antimicrobial polymers shows promise for the development of new, faster-acting and more broadly effective antimicrobial therapies.
Sodium polyphosphate and polyethylenimine enhance the antimicrobial activities of plant essential oils
Authors: Wright Heidi A. , Brehm-Stecher Byron F.
Published: May 2017

Plant extracts have been used for millennia for treatment of disease, with much recent interest focusing on the antimicrobial activities of plant essential oils (EOs). Although EOs are active against common microbial pathogens, their effective use as topical, environmental, or food antimicrobials will require EO-based formulations with enhanced antimicrobial activities. In this study, two polyionic compounds, sodium polyphosphate (polyP, a polyanion) and polyethylenimine (PEI, a polycation), were evaluated for their abilities to enhance the antimicrobial activities of six EOs against the human pathogens Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica ser. Minnesota, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. EOs tested were cinnamon, clove, regular and redistilled oregano, and two types of thyme oil. EOs were examined via disk diffusion and broth microdilution, either alone or in the presence of subinhibitory levels of polyP or PEI. Both polyP and PEI were found to be effective enhancers of EO activity against all strains examined, and calculation of fractional inhibitory indices for select EO/organism pairings demonstrated that true synergy was possible with this enhancement approach. Experiments with a deep-rough strain of S. Minnesota probed the role of the outer membrane in both intrinsic resistance to EOs and enhancement by polyions. The use of polyP and PEI for boosting the antimicrobial activities of EOs may eventually facilitate the development of more effective EO-based antimicrobial treatments for use in applications such as wound treatment, surface disinfection, or as generally recognized as safe antimicrobials for use in foods or on food contact surfaces.
ASSESSMENT OF THE PROPERTIES OF ASPHALT MODIFIED WITH USED TIRES
Authors: Aderinlewo Olufikayo
Published: May 2017

This study investigates the properties of asphalt mix modified with ground tire. The ground tire was introduced into the asphalt in a melted form at varying percentages of 2%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10% by weight of the asphalt. The properties of the asphalt mixed with the ground tire were then obtained through penetration, softening point, flash and fire point and ductility tests. These properties were then compared with those of the control asphalt to determine the effectiveness of the ground tire in improving the asphalt properties. The results showed that the ground tire additive improved the asphalt properties considerably.
INCREASING EXTINGUISHING EFFECT OF WATER MIST BY ELEKTRIFICATION
Authors: Dvořák Otto , Koller Jan
Published: May 2017

This paper describes extinguishing experiments to verify the possibility of increasing the fire-extinguishing efficiency of low-, medium- and high-pressure water mist by its charging by the electric field of high DC voltage. The experimental results confirmed the effects of the electrical voltage, the configuration of electrodes (anode, cathode), the volumetric water flow rate, water pressure and the type of mist nozzle. Higher fire-extinguishing effect of electrically-charged water mist was shown by a shorter extinguishing time, a smaller volume of water to extinguish the fire and a higher percentage of successful extinguishing attempts. Benefit: faster and more efficient fire-fighting with a smaller risk of injury of persons and smaller subsequent damage in the protected space.
BEHAVIOUR OF A GUSSET PLATE CONNECTION UNDER COMPRESSION
Authors: Bardot Clément , Cábová Kamila , Kurejková Marta , Wald František
Published: May 2017

The paper presents behaviour of gusset plate connections in compression. The finite element method is employed to examine the buckling resistance of the gusset plate connections. The FE model is validated to results of physical tests and verified by an analytical solution based on existing formulas. Finally, a parametric study is performed. The studied parameters include gusset plate thickness and size, types of connection between the gusset plate and frame members and stiffeners.
Knowledge levels of senıor nursing students about epilepsy
Hemşirelik son sınıf öğrencilerinin epilepsi hakkındaki bilgi düzeyleri
Authors: Sert Havva , Çetinkaya Serap , Seven Ahmet , Pelin Meryem
Published: May 2017

Aim: This study was conducted to determine knowledge levels and the factors affecting of  senior nursing students about epilepsy.Method: The study was conducted descriptively and cross-sectional between 17-27 January 2017 with 168 nursing senior students who agreed to participate in the study. The data was collected on social media with questionnaire which was composed of the literature review by the researchers. 15 of the questions were about socio-demographic characteristics and 20 of questions were about epilepsy. Analysing of data were carried out in a computer program by using percentage, Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis-H test.Results: It was determined that mean score of the students' knowledge level about epilepsy is 81,10±7,27. There was a statistically significant relationship between where they got the information about epilepsy, care a patient previously had a seizure and mean scores of epilepsy knowledge level (p<0,05). It was determined that students ,who got information about epilepsy from the health personnel and those who care a patient previously had a seizure, had high mean scores.Conclusion: In the study, ıt was determined that nursing senior students’ knowledge level about the epilepsy is high; where they got the information about epilepsy, care a patient previously had a seizure affects epilepsy knowledge.Extended English abstract is in the end of PDF (TURKISH) file. ÖzetAmaç: Bu çalışma, hemşirelik son sınıf öğrencilerinin epilepsi hakkındaki bilgi düzeylerini ve etkileyen faktörleri belirlemek amacıyla yapıldı.Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışma, 17-27 Ocak 2017 tarihleri arasında çalışmaya katılmayı kabul eden 168 hemşirelik son sınıf öğrencisiyle tanımlayıcı ve kesitsel olarak yapıldı. Çalışmanın verileri sosyal medya aracılığı ile toplandı. Verilerin toplanmasında araştırmacılar tarafından literatür taranarak oluşturulan, 15’i sosyo-demogrofik özellikleri, 20’si epilepsi hakkında bilgi durumlarını ölçmeye yönelik sorudan oluşan soru formu kullanıldı. Veriler; bilgisayar ortamında, yüzdelik, Mann-Whitney U ve Kruskal Wallis-H testleri kullanılarak değerlendirildi.Bulgular: Öğrencilerin epilepsi bilgi düzeyleri toplam puan ortalamalarının 81,10±7,27 olduğu belirlendi. Öğrencilerin epilepsi hakkında bilgiyi nereden aldığı ve daha önce nöbet geçiren hastaya bakma durumları ile epilepsi bilgi düzeyi toplam puan ortalamaları arasında istatiksel olarak anlamlı ilişki olduğu saptandı (p<0,05). Sonuç: Çalışmada hemşirelik son sınıf öğrencilerinin epilepsi hakkındaki bilgi düzeylerinin yüksek olduğu; epilepsi hakkında bilgiyi nereden aldığı ve daha önce nöbet geçiren hastaya bakım vermenin epilepsi bilgi durumunu etkilediği belirlendi.
Service Satisfaction–Market Share Relationships in Partnered Hybrid Offerings
Authors: Becerril-Arreola Rafael , Zhou Chen , Srinivasan Raji , Seldin Daniel
Published: May 2017

Many goods manufacturers and service providers jointly deliver partnered hybrid offerings to achieve competitive advantage and superior performance. In such cases, service providers may emphasize different aspects of service in their offerings. Do service providers and goods manufacturers benefit equally from emphasizing service satisfaction? Do the performance effects of emphases on different aspects of service satisfaction vary across different goods? The authors examine the effects of emphases on two aspects of service satisfaction, relational service (interactions with the service provider's staff) and service environment (service provider's facilities), on the market shares of service and goods components of partnered hybrid offerings. Using multiple secondary data sources from the U.S. automobile industry between 2009 and 2015, the authors find that emphasizing relational service satisfaction increases service market share but decreases goods market share. Counterintuitively, emphasizing service environment satisfaction decreases service market share. Furthermore, the vertical quality of the good moderates these relationships. The findings generate actionable guidelines to improve market shares by adjusting relational service satisfaction and service environment satisfaction in the partnered hybrid offerings context.
Keeping the Memory but Not the Possession: Memory Preservation Mitigates Identity Loss from Product Disposition
Authors: Winterich Karen Page , Reczek Rebecca Walker , Irwin Julie R.
Published: May 2017

Nonprofit firms’ reliance on donations to build inventory distinguishes them from traditional retailers. This reliance on consumer donations means that these organizations face an inherently more volatile supply chain than retailers that source inventory from manufacturers. The authors propose that consumer reluctance to part with possessions with sentimental value causes a bottleneck in the donation process. The goal of this research is therefore to provide nonprofits with tools to increase donations of used goods and provide a theoretical link between the literature streams on prosocial behavior, disposition, memory, and identity. As such, the authors explore the effectiveness of memory preservation strategies (e.g., taking a photo of a good before donating it) in increasing donations to nonprofits. A field study using a donation drive demonstrates that encouraging consumers to take photos of sentimental possessions before donating them increases donations, and five laboratory experiments explicate this result by mapping the proposed psychological process behind the success of memory preservation techniques. Specifically, these techniques operate by ameliorating consumers’ perceived identity loss when considering donation of sentimental goods.
U.S. Citizens’ Representations of God and Support for Sustainability Policies
Authors: Johnson Kathryn A. , Liu Richie L. , Minton Elizabeth A. , Bartholomew Darrell E. , Peterson Mark , Cohen Adam B. , Kees Jeremy
Published: May 2017

This study proposes that certain religious and spiritual beliefs—specifically, representations of God—play an indirect but influential role in cognitive processing of (1) sustainability behaviors, (2) the importance of proenvironmental policies, and (3) their willingness to vote for proenvironmental policies. Across three studies, this research investigates the role of three representations of God: (1) God as an authoritarian personified being, (2) God as a benevolent personified being, and (3) God as a mystical cosmic force. The results of Study 1 suggest that attitude toward nature mediates the relationship between these representations of God and three sustainability behaviors. Similarly, the results of Study 2 suggest that attitude toward nature mediates the relationship between these representations of God and the importance of proenvironmental policies. In addition, the authors find self-transcendence to be an antecedent of belief in a mystical representation of God. Study 3 includes awe as an antecedent of self-transcendence and generally replicates the findings from Study 2 regarding the role of the representations of God in people's cognitive processing of their willingness to vote for proenvironmental policies.
Global Chain of Marianism
Authors: Ninh Thien-Huong T.
Published: May 2017

Although Vietnamese Catholics in the United States and Cambodia have been isolated from each other for at least thirty years (1975–2005), this paper argues that they have recently established diasporic ties with each other through a global chain of Marianism. Both groups have experienced racialization in their host countries, which are in turn inflected by their local church hierarchies. These experiences have motivated them to establish ties with each other. Their US-Cambodia relationships are mediated through the Vietnamese-looking Our Lady of Lavang and Our Lady of the Mekong, which make up a global circuit of distinctively Vietnamese Marianism.
SPINK2 deficiency causes infertility by inducing sperm defects in heterozygotes and azoospermia in homozygotes
Authors: Kherraf Zine‐Eddine , Christou‐Kent Marie , Karaouzene Thomas , Amiri‐Yekta Amir , Martinez Guillaume , Vargas Alexandra S , Lambert Emeline , Borel Christelle , Dorphin Béatrice , Aknin‐Seifer Isabelle , Mitchell Michael J , Metzler‐Guillemain Catherine , Escoffier Jessica , Nef Serge , Grepillat Mariane , Thierry‐Mieg Nicolas , Satre Véronique , Bailly Marc , Boitrelle Florence , Pernet‐Gallay Karin , Hennebicq Sylviane , Fauré Julien , Bottari Serge P , Coutton Charles , Ray Pierre F , Arnoult Christophe
Published: May 2017

Azoospermia, characterized by the absence of spermatozoa in the ejaculate, is a common cause of male infertility with a poorly characterized etiology. Exome sequencing analysis of two azoospermic brothers allowed the identification of a homozygous splice mutation in SPINK2, encoding a serine protease inhibitor believed to target acrosin, the main sperm acrosomal protease. In accord with these findings, we observed that homozygous Spink2 KO male mice had azoospermia. Moreover, despite normal fertility, heterozygous male mice had a high rate of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa and a reduced sperm motility. Further analysis demonstrated that in the absence of Spink2, protease‐induced stress initiates Golgi fragmentation and prevents acrosome biogenesis leading to spermatid differentiation arrest. We also observed a deleterious effect of acrosin overexpression in HEK cells, effect that was alleviated by SPINK2 coexpression confirming its role as acrosin inhibitor. These results demonstrate that SPINK2 is necessary to neutralize proteases during their cellular transit toward the acrosome and that its deficiency induces a pathological continuum ranging from oligoasthenoteratozoospermia in heterozygotes to azoospermia in homozygotes.
Lugol's solution-induced painless thyroiditis
Authors: Yang Ji Wei , How Jacques
Published: May 2017

Lugol’s solution is usually employed for a limited period for thyroidectomy preparation in patients with Graves’ disease and for the control of severe thyrotoxicosis and thyroid storm. We describe a rare case of Lugol’s solution-induced painless thyroiditis. In November 2014, a 59-year-old woman was prescribed Lugol’s solution four drops per day for the alleviation of menopausal symptoms. She was referred to our clinic in June 2015 for fatigue, hair loss, and a 20-lb weight loss without thyroid pain or discomfort. Physical examination revealed a normal thyroid gland. On 7 May 2015, laboratory tests revealed a suppressed thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) 0.01 U/L with elevated free T4 3.31 ng/dL (42.54 pmol/L). Repeat testing on 25 May 2015 showed spontaneous normalization of the free thyroid hormone levels with persistently low TSH 0.10 U/L. Following these results, a family physician prescribed methimazole 10 mg PO TID and very soon after, the TSH concentration rose to >100 U/L along with subnormal free T4 and T3 levels. Methimazole was promptly discontinued, namely within 18 days of its initiation. Over the course of the next few months, the patient spontaneously achieved clinical and biochemical euthyroidism. To our knowledge, this is a unique case of painless thyroiditis induced by Lugol’s solution, which has not been reported before. Lugol’s solution is a short-term medication given for the preparation of thyroidectomy in patients with Graves’ disease and for the control of severe thyrotoxicosis. Iodine excess can cause both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Rarely, Lugol’s solution can cause acute painless thyroiditis.

Learning points:

Lugol’s solution is used for thyroidectomy preparation in patients with Graves’ disease and for the control of severe thyrotoxicosis and thyroid storm.

Iodine excess can cause both hypothyroidism and thyrotoxicosis. Thyroid glands with an underlying pathology are particularly susceptible to the adverse effect of iodine.

The prolonged off-label use of Lugol’s solution can be harmful. Rarely, Lugol’s solution can cause acute painful thyroiditis.
DURATION AND TIMING OF SPAWNING SEASONS IN MARINE TELEOSTS: A BIOGEOGRAPHICAL APPROACH
Authors: Satria Fayakun
Published: May 2017

The duration and timing patterns of spawning seasons among marine teleosls tishes over broad geographic ranges from the polars to the equator has been reviewed. The review was based on 206 studies In order to evaluale potenlial patterns of the length or timing of spawning seasons in relation to tatitude, habitats and taxonomic groupings patterns.
POPULATION DYNAMICS OF THE MAIN PELAGIC SPECIES EXPLOITED IN THE JAVA SEA: BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS ESTIMATES
Authors: Sadhotomo Bambang
Published: May 2017

several sets of length frequency data (1991 to 1995) of the six species were used to estimate the growth parameters and to discuss the results in relation to possible influence of data structure on the parameter estimates
CORAL FISH POPULATION CHANGES IN THE SURROUNDING ARTIFICIAL REEFS OF THE LEBAH COASTAL WATERS, KARANGASEM, BALI
Authors: Syam Amran Ronny , Edrus Isa Nagib , Hartati Sri Turni
Published: May 2017

The Directorate General of Fisheries deployed some artificial reefs in 1991 for habitat enhancement in Lebah coastal waters that have already degraded. This study was the 4th time monitoring of fifteen years of restoration period that aimed to identify changes of coral fish population in the vicinity of the artificial reefs.
Pedagogiczne aspekty duszpasterskiej działalności bł. ks. Władysława Bukowińskiego
Authors: Godawa Grzegorz
Published: May 2017

Beatyfikacja ks. Władysława Bukowińskiego zwraca uwagę na podejmowaną przez niego działalność duszpasterską. Posiada ona wyraźny rys pedagogiczny, który wyraża się w wychowawczej trosce o wszechstronny rozwój powierzonych mu osób. Błogosławiony, dostosowując swe działania do ekstremalnych warunków życia w łagrze, a także do trudnych warunków duszpasterzowania bez kościoła, wypracował autorskie formy tej działalności. Podstawową kategorią jego pedagogii było spotkanie z drugim człowiekiem oraz towarzyszący temu spotkaniu dialog. Dzięki nim docierał do wielu osób, przekazując im prawdę o miłości Boga i ludzkiej godności. Pedagogia ks. Bukowińskiego posiada cechy charakteryzujące proces wychowania, zakładający afirmację ludzkiej godności, permanencję, intraakcyjność, dwustronną relację z innymi, transgresyjność i nieokreśloność. Zaangażowanie ks. Władysława napotykało na sprzeciw ze strony komunistycznych władz i wyrażało się w represjach i prześladowaniach. Niezłomna postawa błogosławionego była ważnym czynnikiem budującym jego autorytet i wpływającym na postawy innych.
The heuristics of representation in science: the mechanisms and mathematical principles in physics of Descartes and Fermat
Authors: Laranjeiras Cássio C. , Silva Jojomar L. da , Chiappin J.R.N.
Published: May 2017

The objective of this article, which is part of the research program developed by the authors on the role of representation in science and science education, is to highlight the use of mechanisms and mathematical principles as representational heuristics of physical phenomena. They have been used by Descartes and Fermat in their respective investigations in the field of optics, more specifically in their analysis of the light refraction phenomenon. With examples drawn from the works of the cited authors, we sought to reveal the distinct, but not exclusive commitments and conceptions about the dynamics involved in building and developing scientific theories. From the heuristic point of view, we raise the hypothesis of the complementarity and convergence between both representations, with the argument it's up to the mechanisms to capture the constituting material principle of the phenomenon, while the abstract mathematical principles should take care of its formal organization. By emphasizing aspects related to the dynamics of the construction and development of scientific theories, heuristic elements essential to an understanding of the Nature of Science (NOS) and therefore relevant to the Descartes, Fermat, Epistemology of physics, Heuristics, Physics Education teaching and learning process of physics will emerge.