bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reference intervals for selected hematological and biochemical variables in Hucul horses
Authors: Cywińska A. , Czopowicz M. , Witkowski L. , Górecka R. , Degórski A. , Guzera M. , Szczubełek P. , Turło A. , Schollenberger A. , Winnicka A.
Published: July 2015

Background: Hucul horses are the unique, genetically distinct breed of Carpathian Mountains. Even though they are recognized as primitive breed, many morphological differences between them and other primitive horses have been reported. Neither hematological nor blood biochemical studies in this breed have been conducted so far.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to establish the reference intervals for basic hematological and selected biochemical variables and to compare them with other breeds.

Material and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 168 Hucul horses and the analyses were performed using routine methods. Mainly nonparametric method was used to establish reference intervals.

Results: The following reference intervals have been established (rounded to two significant digits): RBC: 7.0-13×1012/l; HGB: 106.1-195.8 g/l; HCT: 0.3-0.6 l/l; MCV: 35-50 fl; MCH 11.9-17.1 pg; MCHC: 31.9-34.8 g/dl; WBC: 7.5-22×109/l, bands: 0-0.5×109/l; segmented neutrophils: 3.3-10×109/l; eosinophils: 0-1.1×109/l; basophils: 0-0.3×109/l; lymphocytes: 1.9-12×109/l; monocytes: 0-0.2×109/l; PLT 95-350×109/l; MPV 5.2-7.0; ALP: 98-425 U/l; AST: 220-470 U/l; GGT: 9.1-31 U/l; total bilirubin: 6.5-29 μmol/l; CPK: 120-640 U/l; triglycerides: 0.1-0.9 mmol/l; urea: 3.8-11 mmol/l; creatinine: 44 -140 μmol/l; serum amyloid A: 130-5200 μg/l.

Conclusions: Hematological and biochemical variables in Hucul horses were closer to hot-blooded then to cold-blooded and primitive horses or wild equidae. The reference intervals presented in this study pose clinically useful tool for evaluation of blood check-up in Hucul horses.
Detection of Brachyspina carriers within Polish Holstein-Friesian bulls
Authors: Ruść A. , Kamiński S.
Published: July 2015

The aim of this paper was to verify the hypothesis whether carriers of genetic defect Brachyspina occur in the Polish Holstein-Friesian Cattle. PCR method was used to screen 78 Polish Holstein-Friesian bulls. Eight bulls were identified as heterozygotes for 3,3 kb deletion in the FANCI gene – the mutation causing Brachyspina defect. All carriers were sons of 3 sires: Cleitus Jabot, Sandy-Valley Bolton ET and Coyne-Farms Dorcy ET which were descendants of the US sire Sweet Haven Tradition (HOUSAM 1682485). Systematic screening of young bulls having in the pedigree Barchyspina carrier is necessary to prevent spreading of the recessive mutation in the dairy cattle population in Poland.
A Hydrodynamic Methodology And CFD Analysis For Performance Prediction Of Stepped Planing Hulls
Authors: Ghassemi Hassan , Kamarlouei Mojtaba , Veysi Sajad Taj Golah
Published: July 2015

Nowadays all efforts in planing hull research are focused on resistance reduction for achieving the highest speed in fast planing crafts. Furthermore, many fruitful research projects have been carried out on marine coatings, planing equipment, and optimization of propeller and hull form, which revolutionized industry of high - speed crafts and made them an efficient survival vehicle in coastal areas and rivers. In this paper the hydrodynamic performance of planing hulls are investigated by means of a modified Savitsky model for both non-stepped and stepped bodies. Meanwhile, in order to meet this goal reasonably, effective geometrical parameters of planing hull are investigated and then operational hydrodynamic characteristics of the craft are predicted by using a computational program. Finally, the calculation results are verified by means of a CFD-analysis model.
Identification Of Damages Of Tribological Associations In Crankshaft And Piston Systems Of Two-Stroke Internal Combustion Engines Used As Main Propulsion In Sea-Going Vessels And Proposal Of Probabilistic Description Of Loads As Causes Of These Damages
Authors: Girtler Jerzy
Published: July 2015

The article discusses damages of essential tribological associations in crankshaft and piston systems of large power two-stroke engines used as main engines, which take place during transport tasks performed by those ships. Difficulties are named which make preventing those damages impossible, despite the fact that the technical state of engines of this type is identified with the aid of complex diagnostic systems making use of advanced computer technology. It is demonstrated that one of causes of the damages is the lack of research activities oriented on recognising random properties of the loads leading to those damages. A proposal is made for the loads acting at a given time t on tribological associations in crankshaft and piston systems of internal combustion engines used as main engines to be considered as random variables Qt. At the same time the loads examined within a given time interval tr ≤ t ≤ tz would be considered stochastic processes {Q(t): t ≥ 0}. Essential properties of the loads of the abovementioned tribological associations are named and explained by formulating hypotheses which need empirical verification. Interval estimation is proposed for estimating the expected value E(Qt) of the load Qt acting at time t. A relation is indicated between the mechanical load and the thermal load acting on tribological associations in the ship main engine crankshaft and piston system. A suggestion is formulated that a stochastic form of the relation between these types of load is to be searched for, rather than statistic relation, and a proposal is made to measure the intensity (strength) of the stochastic relation using the Czuprow’s convergence coefficient.
Low Temperature Properties Of Fuel Mixtures Of Kerosene And Fame Type Used To Supply Turbine Engines In Marine And Other Non-Aeronautical Applications
Authors: Dzięgielewski Wojciech , Gawron Bartosz , Kulczycki Andrzej
Published: July 2015

A worldwide trend to popularise gradually increasing use of biofuels in various applications was a motivation for gaining interest in FAME as a commonly available biocomponent to fuels combusted in turbine engines. These engines are mainly used in aeronautics, but many of them are also used in other, non-aeronautical areas, including marine navigation. Specific conditions in which fuels are combusted in turbine engines used in these applications are the reason why fuel mixtures of kerosene and FAME type should reveal relevant low temperature characteristics. The article presents results of tests of low temperature properties of mixtures of the jet fuel Jet A-1 and methyl esters of higher fatty acids (FAME). The prepared mixtures contained different contents of FAME. The obtained results present changes of: viscosity, cloud point, pour point, crystallising point, and cold filter plugging point, depending on the percentage by volume of FAME. They also prove that the course of changes of low temperature properties of these mixtures is affected by chemical structure of the biocomponent.
Rounded leaf end effect of multileaf collimator on penumbra width and radiation field offset: an analytical and numerical study
Authors: Zhou Dong , Zhang Hui , Ye Peiqing
Published: July 2015

Background. Penumbra characteristics play a significant role in dose delivery accuracy for radiation therapy. For treatment planning, penumbra width and radiation field offset strongly influence target dose conformity and organ at risk sparing.

Methods. In this study, we present an analytical and numerical approach for evaluation of the rounded leaf end effect on penumbra characteristics. Based on the rule of half-value layer, algorithms for leaf position calculation and radiation field offset correction were developed, which were advantageous particularly in dealing with large radius leaf end. Computer simulation was performed based on the Monte Carlo codes of EGSnrc/BEAMnrc, with groups of leaf end radii and source sizes. Data processing technique of curve fitting was employed for deriving penumbra width and radiation field offset.

Results. Results showed that penumbra width increased with source size. Penumbra width curves for large radius leaf end were U-shaped. This observation was probably related to the fact that radiation beams penetrated through the proximal and distal leaf sides. In contrast, source size had negligible impact on radiation field offset. Radiation field offsets were found to be constant both for analytical method and numerical simulation. However, the overall resulting values of radiation field offset obtained by analytical method were slightly smaller compared with Monte Carlo simulation.

Conclusions. The method we proposed could provide insight into the investigation of rounded leaf end effects on penumbra characteristics. Penumbra width and radiation field offset calibration should be carefully performed to commission multileaf collimator for intensity modulated radiotherapy.
Computational Approaches to Exploring Persian-Accented English
Authors: Miller Corey
Published: July 2015

Methods involving phonetic speech recognition are discussed for detecting Persianaccented English. These methods offer promise for both the identification and mitigation of L2 pronunciation errors. Pronunciation errors, both segmental and suprasegmental, particular to Persian speakers of English are discussed.
Good English Pronunciation Users and Their Pronunciation Learning Strategies
Authors: Szyszka Magdalena
Published: July 2015

The study investigates pronunciation learning strategies (PLS) deployed by those with good English pronunciation, as well as their beliefs concerning the variables that affect pronunciation competence. In order to collect data for analysis this study surveyed 61 participants who had learned English as a foreign language. They comprised 28 higher education teachers and scholars specialising in English phonetics and phonology, who were defined as good pronunciation users (GPU), and 33 EFL teacher training students, viewed as average pronunciation learners (APL). This cohort responded to a survey on pronunciation learning strategies and expressed their views on several aspects affecting the L2 pronunciation learning process. These aspects were: age of the first contact with L2 (age of onset), motivation, exposure to the target language, the teacher’s pronunciation model, and learning strategies. The study used both open- and close-ended question formats to collect data from both GPU and APL. The analyses of the data helped to create a tentative profile of a successful L2 pronunciation learner.
Possibilities of the Practical Application of Remote Sensing Data in Real Property Appraisal
Authors: Dąbrowski Rafał , Latos Dorota
Published: July 2015

In the process of real estate evaluation, there are many important elements that should be taken into consideration: for example the type of property which is under evaluation, real estate market analysis, and the selection of appropriate evaluation approaches, methods and techniques. In each of the approaches, different parameters are important. Most importantly, however, is the appropriate selection and identification of real estate characteristics, both physical and economic, as well as the determination of the importance of these qualities so that, when necessary, it will be possible to make the appraisal and select those characteristics which have the greatest impact on value of property.

To acquire information about real estate, one can analyze data from multiple sources of information, such as: the land and mortgage register, land and buildings register, local town and country planning, industry data and other. Integrating data from all these sources allows comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge on the assessed property to be developed.

One of best sources of data describing the characteristics of real estate is remote sensing. This method offers a high spectrum of information and, therefore, allows a wide range of analyses. As a result, one can obtain highly accurate facts about the property. Remote sensing data, however, are not a panacea for all problems and have some limitations that determine their applicability.

This paper describes the possibilities of specifying some characteristics of the property under appraisal based on remote sensing data. For this purpose, the qualitative - quantitative analysis of the four most "common" types of remote sensing data were made, along with determining selected characteristics of 30 properties located in the Warsaw - Bemowo suburb area.

The results of this research made it possible to answer the question of whether it is practicable and, if so, to what extent, to use remotely sensed data as the basis for determining the characteristics of a property as well as connecting the types of data to individual properties. The paper focuses on defining the characteristics of two kinds of real estate: land and buildings.
State and Determinants of Real Estate Market Development in Central and Eastern European Countries on the Example of Poland and Bulgaria
Authors: Rącka Izabela , Palicki Sławomir , Kostov Ivo
Published: July 2015

In this paper, the specificity of release and transformation processes of real estate markets in two postsocialist bloc countries, i.e. Bulgaria and Poland, was diagnosed. Comparative analysis of the conditions and directions of change was used as a tool to clarify the current situation, current status and characteristics of these markets. Comparison of Poland and Bulgaria also indicates the prospects for the development of real estate markets. The article is an attempt at assessing the condition and evolutionary progress of the residential segment. The authors also selected obstacles and factors promoting the development of real estate markets in the analyzed countries. This will either enable the critical assessment of changes observed in the past, or prove helpful in the context forecasting market phenomena.
A simplified algorithm for the design of piled raft foundations applied for the case study of a building erected within Żoliborz-Szczęśliwice glacial tunnel valley
Authors: Kacprzak Grzegorz , Mazurek Katarzyna , Daktera Tomasz
Published: July 2015

A common engineering solution for excessive settlement with raft foundation (s) is the use of piles in order to reduce the vertical displacements, in this method, the whole structural load is transferred to the piles. This is an overly cautious approach, and there remains a need to find an optimal design method for a building’s foundations. Such a solution may be the piled raft foundation, which allows a reduction of the number of piles due to the integration of the raft in the bearing capacity of the foundation. The aim of the article is to estimate the contribution of foundation elements such as the raft and the piles in the bearing capacity of a residential building located in Warsaw, where the geological conditions are characterized by organic soil layers, principally of gyttja.
Stabilization of bottom sediments from Rzeszowski Reservoir
Authors: Koś Karolina , Zawisza Eugeniusz
Published: July 2015

The paper presents results of stabilization of bottom sediments from Rzeszowski Reservoir. Based on the geotechnical characteristics of the tested sediments it was stated they do not fulfill all the criteria set for soils in earth embankments. Therefore, an attempt to improve their parameters was made by using two additives – cement and lime. An unconfined compressive strength, shear strength, bearing ratio and pH reaction were determined on samples after different time of curing. Based on the carried out tests it was stated that the obtained values of unconfined compressive strength of sediments stabilized with cement were relatively low and they did not fulfill the requirements set by the Polish standard, which concerns materials in road engineering. In case of lime stabilization it was stated that the tested sediments with 6% addition of the additive can be used for the bottom layers of the improved road base.
Geotechnical investigation and static analysis of deep excavation walls – a case study of metro station construction in Warsaw
Authors: Mitew-Czajewska Monika
Published: July 2015

The paper presents detailed analysis of the case – a construction of deep excavation of metro station in Warsaw. Basing on this example, the great impact of the accuracy of the geotechnical investigation on the static analysis of diaphragm walls is discussed. Geotechnical studies for the construction of the central section of the second metro line were carried out in stages. Basic geotechnical soil investigation took place in the first stage of investment process, e.g. building permit and tender design stages in 2003–2004, 2007 and 2010. In subsequent years, complementary soil investigations have been performed by the contractor, and the results occurred to differ significantly. In the first part of the paper detailed description of the case is introduced. The geological conditions in the area of the station and the interpretation of the results of the three successive stages of geotechnical investigation are presented. As a result, two locations were selected with a great diversity of the soil profile depending on the stage of investigation. For each location, detailed, multiple static analysis of diaphragm walls were performed, taking into account changes in the soil profile. In the paper, one selected location is described in detail. The discussion of calculation results for this location in relation to the changing geotechnical data is presented and final conclusions are provided.
Thermal Response Of An Aerated Concrete Wall With Micro-Encapsulated Phase Change Material
Authors: Halúzová Dušana
Published: July 2015

For many years Phase Change Materials (PCM) have attracted attention due to their ability to store large amounts of thermal energy. This property makes them a candidate for the use of passive heat storage. In many applications, they are used to avoid the overheating of the temperature of an indoor environment. This paper describes the behavior of phase change materials that are inbuilt in aerated concrete blocks. Two building samples of an aerated concrete wall were measured in laboratory equipment called “twin-boxes”. The first box consists of a traditional aerated concrete wall; the second one has additional PCM micro-encapsulated in the wall. The heat flux through the wall was measured and compared to simulation results modeled in the ESP-r program. This experimental measurement provides a foundation for a model that can be used to analyze further building constructions.
Dynamical Models For Prices With Distributed Delays
Authors: Mircea Gabriela , Neamţu Mihaela , Cismaş Laura Mariana
Published: July 2015

In the present paper we study some models for the price dynamics of a single commodity market. The quantities of supplied and demanded are regarded as a function of time. Nonlinearities in both supply and demand functions are considered. The inventory and the level of inventory are taken into consideration. Due to the fact that the consumer behavior affects commodity demand, and the behavior is influenced not only by the instantaneous price, but also by the weighted past prices, the distributed time delay is introduced. The following kernels are taken into consideration: demand price weak kernel and demand price Dirac kernel. Only one positive equilibrium point is found and its stability analysis is presented. When the demand price kernel is weak, under some conditions of the parameters, the equilibrium point is locally asymptotically stable. When the demand price kernel is Dirac, the existence of the local oscillations is investigated. A change in local stability of the equilibrium point, from stable to unstable, implies a Hopf bifurcation. A family of periodic orbits bifurcates from the positive equilibrium point when the time delay passes through a critical value. The last part contains some numerical simulations to illustrate the effectiveness of our results and conclusions.
Alternative Method to Simulate a Sub-idle Engine Operation in Order to Synthesize Its Control System
Authors: Sukhovii Sergii I. , Sirenko Feliks F. , Yepifanov Sergiy V. , Loboda Igor
Published: July 2015

The steady-state and transient engine performances in control systems are usually evaluated by applying thermodynamic engine models. Most models operate between the idle and maximum power points, only recently, they sometimes address a sub-idle operating range. The lack of information about the component maps at the sub-idle modes presents a challenging problem. A common method to cope with the problem is to extrapolate the component performances to the sub-idle range. Precise extrapolation is also a challenge. As a rule, many scientists concern only particular aspects of the problem such as the lighting combustion chamber or the turbine operation under the turned-off conditions of the combustion chamber. However, there are no reports about a model that considers all of these aspects and simulates the engine starting. The proposed paper addresses a new method to simulate the starting. The method substitutes the non-linear thermodynamic model with a linear dynamic model, which is supplemented with a simplified static model. The latter model is the set of direct relations between parameters that are used in the control algorithms instead of commonly used component performances. Specifically, this model consists of simplified relations between the gas path parameters and the corrected rotational speed.
Poles in the Dutch Cape Colony 1652-1814
Authors: Kowalski Mariusz
Published: July 2015

The contribution of Poles to the colonisation and development of the Dutch Cape Colony is not commonly known. Yet, Poles have been appearing in this colony since its very inception (1652). During the entire period considered here the presence of Poles was the result of the strong economic ties between Poland and the Netherlands. At the end of this period there was an increase in their share, in connection with the presence of numerous alien military units on the territory of the Colony, because of Poles having served in these units. Numerous newcomers from Poland settled in South Africa for good, established families, and their progeny made up part of the local society. The evidence of this phenomenon is provided by the present-day Afrikaner families of, for instance, Drotsky, Kitshoff, Kolesky, Latsky, Masuriek, Troskie, Zowitsky, and others. A quite superficial estimation implies that the settlers coming from Poland could make up a bit over 1% of the ancestors of the present-day Afrikaners. Poles would also participate in the pioneering undertakings within the far-off fringes of the Colony, including the robbery-and-trade expedition of 1702.
Quality of life in patients with primary hypothyroidism related to BMI
Authors: Kelderman-Bolk Nienke , Visser Theo J , Tijssen Jan P , Berghout Arie
Published: July 2015

Objective

Many patients treated for primary hypothyroidism have an unexplained reduced quality of life (QOL). We studied the relation between QOL and various parameters in treated hypothyroid patients.

Design and methods

QOL analysis was done in 90 consecutive patients (77.8% females) treated for primary hypothyroidism. QOL was measured by the questionnaires Short-Form 36, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and MFI20. Post hoc analysis was performed on the relation of QOL at baseline and BMI, thyroid hormones and other serum values. QOL in patients was also compared to the general population.

Results

QOL was decreased compared to the general population. We found an inverse relationship between QOL and BMI. A relationship between QOL and serum thyroid parameters or auto-antibodies could not be found. Higher sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels corresponded with a better QOL, which is explained by the negative association of SHBG with body weight and BMI.

Conclusions

A decreased QOL in hypothyroid patients on thyroxine treatment is related to a higher body weight (BMI). Weight gain needs more attention in the treatment of hypothyroidism.
Maternal Consequences of the Detection of Fragile X Carriers in Newborn Screening
Authors: Bailey Donald B. , Wheeler Anne , Berry-Kravis Elizabeth , Hagerman Randi , Tassone Flora , Powell Cynthia M. , Roche Myra , Gane Louise W. , Sideris John
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVES:

The possibility of newborn screening for fragile X syndrome is complicated by the potential for identifying premutation carriers. Although knowing the child’s carrier status has potential benefits, the possibility of late-onset disorders in carrier children and their parents raises concerns about whether such information would be distressing to parents and potentially more harmful than helpful. This study sought to answer this question by offering voluntary fragile X screening to new parents and returning results for both the full mutation and premutation FMR1 gene expansions. We tested the assumption that such information could lead to adverse mental health outcomes or decision regret. We also wanted to know if child age and spousal support were associated with the outcomes of interest.

METHODS:

Eighteen mothers of screen-positive infants with the premutation and 15 comparison mothers completed a battery of assessments of maternal anxiety, postpartum depression, stress, family quality of life, decision regret, and spousal support. The study was longitudinal, with an average of 3 assessments per mother.

RESULTS:

The premutation group was not statistically different from the comparison group on measures of anxiety, depression, stress, or quality of life. A subset of mothers experienced clinically significant anxiety and decision regret, but factors associated with these outcomes could not be identified. Greater spousal support was generally associated with more positive outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although we did not find evidence of significant adverse events, disclosure of newborn carrier status remains an important consideration in newborn screening policy.
Ablation of Arrhythmias in Patients with Adult Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Gallardo Lobo Rodrigo , Griffith Michael , De Bono Joseph
Published: July 2015

Arrhythmias in adults with congenital heart disease, most commonly related to previous surgical procedures, are a frequent comorbidity in this growing population thanks to the improved outcome of surgical techniques. Re-entrant circuits around areas of scarring and natural barriers, combined with abnormal haemodynamics and the underlying anatomy, are the most common cause for these arrhythmias. They are often poorly tolerated and medical treatment is frequently inadequate. In recent years, catheter ablation has emerged as a successful therapeutic option. New advanced techniques such as the use of modern three-dimensional (3D) navigation systems have contributed to better understanding of the arrhythmia mechanisms and higher success rates of the ablation procedures. In this article we briefly summarise the characteristics of the most common arrhythmias in this patient population and some key aspects in their treatment by catheter ablation.
Current Evidence and Recommendations for Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy
Authors: Dewhurst Matthew J , Linker Nicholas J
Published: July 2015

The number of people in Europe living with symptomatic heart failure is increasing. Since its advent in the 1990s, cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) has proven beneficial in terms of morbidity and mortality in selected heart failure (HF) patient populations, when combined with optimal pharmacological therapy. We review the evidence for CRT and the populations of HF patients it is currently shown to benefit, and those in which more research needs to be performed.
Use of Thrombectomy Devices in Primary Percutaneous Interventions for ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction – An Update
Authors: Rathod Krishnaraj S , Hamshere Stephen M , Choudhury Tawfiq R , Jones Daniel A ,   Department of Cardiology, Barts Health NHS Trust; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University, London; NIHR Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit, London Chest Hospital, London,   Department of Cardiology, Barts Health NHS Trust; NIHR Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit, London Chest Hospital, London,   Department of Cardiology, Barts Health NHS Trust; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University, London; NIHR Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit, London Chest Hospital, London,   Department of Cardiology, Barts Health NHS Trust; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University, London; NIHR Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit, London Chest Hospital, London,   Department of Cardiology, Barts Health NHS Trust; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University, London; NIHR Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit, London Chest Hospital, London, Bonner Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 9JX. E: a.mathur@qmul.ac.uk
Published: July 2015

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is the preferred reperfusion modality in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). While PPCI is highly effective in achieving epicardial coronary reperfusion, a significant proportion of patients fail to achieve adequate myocardial reperfusion. This is in part due to the distal microembolisation of thrombus and plaque debris during PCI. Recognition of this has led to the development of a number of devices with different mechanisms of action that aim to reduce such distal embolisation and therefore improve end myocardial perfusion. Study results of thrombectomy devices however have been largely inconsistent, especially about clinical outcome data, and several meta-analyses have been carried out as a result. This review aims to critically analyse the literature data on thrombectomy during PPCI, taking into account the most recent studies and the latest metaanalyses looking to see whether thrombectomy use is associated with improved outcomes.
Alcohol Septal Ablation for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
Authors: O’Mahony Constantinos , Mohiddin Saidi A , Knight Charles ,   The Heart Muscle Disease Clinic, London Chest Hospital, London, UK,   The Heart Muscle Disease Clinic, London Chest Hospital, London, UK,   The Heart Muscle Disease Clinic, London Chest Hospital, Bonner Road, London E2 9JX, UK. E: Charles.Knight@bartshealth.nhs.uk
Published: July 2015

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited myocardial disorder characterised by left ventricular hypertrophy. A subgroup of patients develops limiting symptoms in association with left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO). Current international guidelines recommend that symptomatic patients are initially treated by alleviating exacerbating factors and negatively inotropic medication. Drug-refractory symptoms require a comprehensive evaluation of the mechanism of LVOTO and review by a multidisciplinary team to consider the relative merits of myectomy, alcohol septal ablation (ASA) and pacing. This article provides a brief overview of HCM and the pathophysiology of LVOTO, and reviews the use of ASA in patients with drug-refractory symptoms secondary to LVOTO.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Without General Anaesthetic
Authors: Kennon Simon , Lim Zhan ,   London Chest Hospital, Cardiology Department, Bonner Road, London, E2 9JX, UK. E: simon.kennon@radcliffecardiology.com,   London Chest Hospital, Cardiology Department, London, UK
Published: July 2015

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedures are increasingly being performed under local anaesthetic, generally with sedation. Operators hope this will reduce mortality, morbidity and length of hospital stay. A general anaesthetic (GA), however, although involving intrinsic risk, permits transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) imaging throughout a procedure as well as eliminating patient anxiety, pain and movement. This article reviews the published literature, all single-centre experiences, comparing TAVI procedures performed with and without a GA. Procedures performed without GA are generally shorter with reduced length of stay compared with those performed under GA. There is no evidence of any difference in outcomes.
Clinical Impact of Stent Design
Authors: Noad Rebecca L , Hanratty Colm G , Walsh Simon J ,   Specialist Registrar in Cardiology,   Consultant Cardiologist, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK,   Consultant Cardiologist, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK, 51 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7AB, Northern Ireland, UK. E: simon.walsh@belfasttrust.hscni.net
Published: July 2015

The introduction and widespread adoption of drug-eluting stents into routine clinical practice has seen tremendous changes in the practice of interventional cardiology. For a prolonged period, manufacturers have focused research on drugs and polymers that are the key to the prevention of in-stent restenosis. However, stent platform design and its clinical implications have now come back to the fore. This has occurred for numerous reasons, but has primarily been driven by the need for modern stents to perform well in increasingly demanding clinical scenarios. This paper reviews the historical evolution of stent platform design. Current manufacturing processes and materials are also explored. Geometric stent construction and its implications for longitudinal stability and the longer term risks of stent fracture are reviewed. Finally, the implications of the specific stent chosen for different clinical applications including the treatment of bifurcations and left main disease are also summarised. This article will familiarise cardiologists with the crucial impact of each of these factors on modern day practice, as well as acute and long-term outcomes for patients.
“Primavera con una esquina rota“: Análisis psicosocial de la novela de Mario Benedetti
Authors: Barrantes Umaña Beatriz , Bolaños Bolaños María Cristina
Published: July 2015

El presente artículo es un estudio de caso sobre la novela Primavera con una esquina rota del autor Mario Benedetti. El objetivo principal es llevar a cabo un análisis psicosocial desde cuatro grandes teorías de la Psicología Social, estas son el Interaccionismo Simbólico, el Construccionismo Social, la Teoría de Campo y la Psicología de la Liberación. Durante el desarrollo del trabajo se pueden encontrar diversos ejemplos que ofrece la novela y que han sido analizados desde las teorías mencionadas, para ejemplificar, se puede observar cómo los diferentes personajes le dan un significado a alguna situación cotidiana a partir de su interacción con los demás, este es un postulado sumamente importante en la teoría interaccionista, o cómo se exiliaba injustamente a las personas solo por disposición de las autoridades, esto es algo que critica fuertemente la Psicología de la Liberación. Finalmente se puede concluir que dichas teorías ayudan a comprender hechos cotidianos y de esta manera lograr hacer un análisis de la realidad con sustento teórico que lo respalde.
La penetración menguante de Benigno. La fotogenia de las intensidades
Authors: Dinartes Bogantes Andrés
Published: July 2015

El presente ensayo pretende una ser una lectura que parta de esa irreverencia transgresora del texto almovodariano mostrando la riqueza polisémica del texto fílmico. Se enfocará en los personajes Benigno y Alicia, protagonistas del filme “Hable con ella”. Se abordará desde dos aspectos, la mirada fílmica y la puesta en abismo de “El Amante Menguante”. Logra dilucidar que la propuesta almodovariana expresa una mirada que rompe los esquemas tradicionales, por ello la puesta en abismo representa un momento donde esta se trastoca dando espacio a una polisemía queer, donde los cuerpos transitan y son golpeados por esa ruptura de códigos.
Espacio público urbano como catalizador de actividad física y bienestar psicológico
Authors: Urbina Casasola Yocelyn
Published: July 2015

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo principal, discutir con base a la revisión de literatura los posibles efectos positivos que pueden tener el empleo del espacio público urbano, específicamente las ciclovías sobre el bienestar físico y psicológico de sus usuarios y usuarias. Dado a la evidencia, se halla que dichos espacios inciden sobre los niveles de estrés, calidad de vida, capital social y cohesión social; colaborando en la percepción y desarrollo de ciudades más saludables.
La maternidad como un constructo social determinante en el rol de la feminidad
Authors: Barrantes Valverde Karla , Cubero Cubero María Fernanda
Published: July 2015

El presente artículo presenta una revisión bibliográfica basada en el tema de la concepción de maternidad en diferentes momentos históricos, y cómo esta ha sido asociada directamente con la feminidad. Lo anterior, se presentará a través de una recopilación de información de cómo se vivió y vive actualmente la maternidad por parte de las mujeres, es así como se iniciara desde la sociedad primitiva, sociedad matriarcal, inicio de la sociedad patriarcal, época renacentista y Revolución Industrial, para llegar a lo que desde el feminismo se expone sobre el tema y algunas consideraciones de cómo se vive en la actualidad.
Algunos estereotipos, roles y refranes sobre género vigentes en la actualidad en estudiantes de la Universidad de Costa Rica.
Authors: Céspedes Doris
Published: July 2015

Este artículo consiste en una investigación de tipo decriptiva con 505 estudiantes de la Universidad de Costa Rica, a los cuales se les aplicó una encuesta durante el mes de junio del año 2013 para conocer si algunos estereotipos y roles de género siguen vigentes en el contexto universitario en el siglo XXI. En este estudio se pudo encontrar que los estereotipos y roles de género no están tan presentes en la cotidianidad de las aulas universitarias, ya sea en hombres como en mujeres; los resultados muestran que se han generado cambios en la percepción de algunos de los estereotipos y de los roles, sin embargo, en cuanto a los refranes no se nota mayor cambio.Los resultados no señalan una diferencia amplia en relación a los porcentajes entre la edad, sexo, lugar de procedencia, carrera o área de estudio de los y las participantes en la encuesta en cuanto a sus respuestas. Concretamente, en donde se dan más diferencias es en los porcentajes de respuestas sobre el ítem de la afectividad de las mujeres a través de la expresión sentimental, y en la percepción que se sigue teniendo de una relación amorosa entre un hombre mayor y una mujer joven, lo que hace evidente la vigencia de ciertos estereotipos.Y finalmente, puede observarse en los resultados que la vigencia de los refranes se mantiene en los y las jóvenes universitarias de la actualidad.
Indium Antimonide Nanoparticles Synthesized using Inert Gas Condensation Technique.
Authors: Pandya Sneha G. , Kordesch Martin E.
Published: July 2015

Nanoparticles (NPs) of Indium Antimonide (InSb) were synthesized using a vapor phase synthesis technique known as Inert Gas Condensation. NPs were directly deposited, at room temperature and under high vacuum, on glass cover slides, TEM grid, 1 inch-square (111) p-type Silicon wafer and Sodium Chloride substrates. XRD study revealed the crystalline behavior of these NPs exhibiting a cubic symmetry with preferred growth direction of (111). The average grain size of the NPs obtained using XRD results and the Debye-Scherrer formula was 25.62 nm. TEM studies showed a bimodal distribution of NPs with average NPs size of 13.70 and 33.20 nm. These values are consistent with the value obtained using XRD. 1:1 composition ratio of In:Sb was confirmed by the Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy studies. The band gap of the NPs obtained using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was 0.413 eV at 300 K, which indicates quantum confinement in the band structure of these NPs.
The “Lay State” – a Signifier of Transformations in the Church?
Authors: Lombaerts Herman
Published: July 2015

This article explores the renewal lay people initiated at a decisive moment in Church history. In the 16th – 17th century, with the development of the modern school, lay people were given the responsibility to teach religion and to guarantee Christian education in schools. A new type of religious congregation, with exclusively lay members, emerged. They had an impressive impact, worldwide, over the past three centuries. However, as the members of these congregations declined dramatically over the past decades, one wonders whether new generations will succeed in guaranteeing continuity in the near future. Or will ordinary, secular but baptized lay people create new forms of association while taking on responsibility for school education?Michel Sauvage (1923-2001), a French member of the De La Salle religious order, studied the theological identity of the lay “teaching brother” as initiated by J.-B. De La Salle at the end of the 17th century. The present situation, with 1.9 % brothers left and 97.6 % ordinary lay teachers in the educational institutions worldwide, seems to suggest that, once more, a historical mutation is occurring in the church.
Attitudes towards poverty
Authors: Derdziuk Andrzej
Published: July 2015

Poverty, perceived as a lack of basic consumer goods, gives rise to a whole range of outcomes which affect not only the material dimension of human existence, but also influence social relations and references to spiritual values. Attitudes which could be associated with involuntary and unacceptable poverty include: doubt in the Divine Providence, bitterness, jealousy and envy, blaming others, lack of gratitude and in perceiving good, laziness, lack of initiative, escalating demands, gluttony and greed as well as meanness. However, joy, peace, freedom and solidarity with the poor, as well as work and enterprise, are symptoms of evangelical attitudes of the poor in spirit. Attitudes to poverty point to a wide range of human behaviours towards possessions and in effect, reveal an individual’s sense of value.
Subphenotyping and Classification of Orofacial Clefts: Need for Orofacial Cleft Subphenotyping Calls for Revised Classification
Authors: Mcbride W.A. , Mcintyre G.T. , Carroll K. , Mossey P.A.
Published: July 2015

Nonsyndromic orofacial clefting (OFC) describes a range of phenotypes that represent the most common craniofacial birth defects in humans, with an overall birth prevalence of 1:700 live births. Because of the lifelong negative implications on health and well-being associated with OFC and the numbers of people affected, quality research into its etiology, diagnosis, treatment outcomes, and preventative strategies is essential. A range of different methods is used for recording and classifying OFC subphenotypes, one of which is the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system. However, there is a general perception that research is being hampered by a lack of sensitivity and specificity in grouping those with OFC into subphenotypes, with potential heterogeneity and confounding in epidemiologic, genetic, and genotype-phenotype correlation studies. This article provides a background to the necessity of OFC research, discusses current controversies within cleft subphenotyping, and provides a brief overview of current OFC classifications as well as their limitations. The LAHSHAL classification is described in the context of a potentially useful tool for OFC that could complement the ICD-10/ICD-11 Beta coding systems to become a simply understood, universally accepted, clinically friendly, and research-sensitive instrument. Empowering registries, clinicians, and researchers to use a common classification system would have significant implications for OFC research across the world at a time when accurate subphenotyping is crucial and health care research is becoming increasingly tailored toward the individual.
Australian construction response to sustainability ‘megaforces’
Authors: Siew Renard Y. J.
Published: July 2015

The transition to a sustainable economy is inevitable as population and consumption continue to grow, ecosystems decline as a result of increased business activity and resources are stretched to a limit. The survival of businesses is very much dependent on their ability to adapt and transition to a business model that addresses important sustainability ‘megaforces’ such as climate change, energy and fuel, material resource scarcity, water scarcity, population growth, urbanisation, wealth, food security, ecosystem decline and deforestation. This research identifies megaforces that are most important to the construction industry sector and examines the level of preparedness of Australian construction companies in responding to these megaforces. It also identifies the value drivers behind these megaforces through content analysis. Recommendations are then provided for construction companies to develop resilience and remain competitive in the future. This paper will be of interest to both construction management and sustainability practitioners.
Water usage in rainwater harvesting households in Trinidad
Authors: Peters Everson J. , Monrose Keren
Published: July 2015

Rainwater harvesting (RWH), which was previously undertaken more out of necessity than any commitment to autonomy, is now being heralded as a sustainable alternative for domestic water supply and flood control, and in disaster relief. In Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean region, RWH is included in water security and sustainability strategies. Despite the plethora of domestic RWH projects, estimates of water consumption in RWH-dependent households are unavailable, and project designers are left to assume values that are based on conventional water-supply systems. In the present study the per capita consumption (PCC) of domestic water in three RWH-dependent communities was quantified. For this purpose, households’ perceived and actual water consumption was investigated in three rural communities in Trinidad. It was found that perceived and actual consumption are 105–164 l per person per day (lpd) and 95–240 lpd, respectively. Householders’ perception of how much water is consumed was generally significantly different from the measured amount. While the sample of measured PCC was small, the results provide more realistic values for the design of RWH systems, which are being promoted in the region.
The Liquidity Effects of Official Bond Market Intervention
Authors: De Pooter Michiel , Martin Robert F. , Pruitt Seth
Published: July 2015

To "ensure depth and liquidity," the European Central Bank in 2010 and 2011 repeatedly intervened in sovereign debt markets through its Securities Markets Programme. These purchases provide a unique natural experiment for testing the effects of large-scale asset purchases on risk premia arising from liquidity concerns. To explore how official intervention influences liquidity premia, we develop a search-based asset-pricing model. Consistent with our model's predictions, we find statistically and economically significant stock and ow effects on sovereign bonds' liquidity premia in response to official purchases.
Identidad, cultura y desarrollo a través del audiovisual participativo: El caso de jóvenes del Proyecto Youth Path de la Unesco en Costa Rica
Authors: Rabadán Ángel V. , Bruzón Luis , Montaño Sonia
Published: July 2015

En el presente artículo exponemos la utilización de los medios audiovisuales como un elemento estratégico capaz de integrar los conceptos cultura y desarrollo, promoviendo el diálogo intercultural y la participación. El concepto de identidad cultural se hace presente a través de la convivencia y la creatividad de los jóvenes participantes en el Proyecto «Youth Path», propuesto por la Unesco y realizado en Centroamérica, con el fin de impulsar estrategias de desarrollo e inclusión. El audiovisual etnográfico se convierte en herramienta fundamental para generar procesos de conocimiento, así́ como lazos de comunicación e interacción. 