bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of cable force on steady-state motion of remotely operated vehicle for reaction pool underwater welding
Authors: Li Zhan-Dong , Tao Jian-Guo , Sun Hao , Li Jing-Kui , Luo Yang , Deng Zong-Quan
Published: June 2019

Remotely operated vehicle is a reliable and efficient tool in routing inspection of reactor pools of nuclear power plants. While, there is still no study on steady-state motion of remotely operated vehicle which is crucial for reaction pool underwater welding reported. In practice, the cable force has been considered as a critical factor affecting the vehicle’s operation. To evaluate and predict the disturbing effect caused by the cable mounted on the tailing of a vehicle, a numerical simulation can be employed. In this work, we set up a theoretical model of a cable partially in reaction pool water and air to validate the remotely operated vehicle design and reduce the prototype developing time. We programmed the model governed by an ordinary differential equation set, which was considered as an initial value problem following a dimensionless treatment to be solved. The influence by factors (i.e. velocity, water depth, entry water angle, water density and cable length on tension, normal shear force, and binormal moment) was quantified by a numerical method. The test of a cable force was carried out to verify an authenticity of the three-dimensional mechanical model and a numerical method. The results demonstrated that the presented method could be used to evaluate the effect of real environment factors on a remotely operated vehicle steady-state motion and held a potential to improve the remotely operated vehicle design and control strategy.
Reliability of ultrasound strain elastography in the assessment of the quadriceps and patellar tendon in healthy adults
Authors: Dickson Diane M , Fawole Henrietta O , Newcombe Lisa , Smith Stephanie L , Hendry Gordon J
Published: June 2019

Objective

To report the intra- and inter-operator reliability of ultrasound strain elastography measures in the assessment of quadriceps and patellar tendons.

Materials and methods

Forty tendons were investigated of 20 healthy volunteers. Five anatomical sites were examined and analysed by three operators of differing levels of experience. Ultrasound was performed over two measures, employing three sonoelastography measurement techniques using a GE S8 with linear probe (L6–15 MHz). The percentage of exact agreement, Cohen's kappa and ICC2,1 were performed to assess intra- and inter-operator reliability.

Results

The patellar tendon is more reliably measured across all techniques compared to the quadriceps tendon, particularly the distal region. Colour scoring was the most reliable method of sonoelastography. Colour scoring intra- and inter-operator reliability was better for patella tendon sites across all operators (60–95% agreement range), and greatest for experienced operators. Elasticity index intra-operator reliability was greatest for the most experienced operator compared with the least (ICC range 0.35–0.72 and ICC 0.17–0.60). Elasticity ratio intra-operator reliability of the patella tendon was fair–excellent for the experienced operator (ICC range 0.43–0.91), excluding the mid patellar region (ICC 0.13). Poor–fair inter-operator reliability was observed for elasticity ratio (ICC range 0.0–0.54) and elasticity index (ICC range 0.0–0.57).

Conclusions

Strain elastography of the patellar tendon is more reliable than the quadriceps tendon. Intra- and inter-operator reliability was better when undertaken by more experienced operators. Colour scoring was more reliable than elasticity ratio and index methods. Poor–fair intra- and inter-operator reliability of the elasticity ratio and elasticity index was observed.
Technical keys in maximizing finger proximal interphalangeal joint motion after vascularized toe joint transfers
Authors: Lin Yu-Te
Published: June 2019

Vascularized toe joint transfers to the fingers have been performed for more than four decades, but their outcomes are not comparable with implant arthroplasty. Limited range of motion and extensor deficits of about 30° remain major problems with the constructed joints. We observed that the central extensor tendon of the toe is often attenuated proximally in its course on the dorsum of the proximal interphalangeal joint. A tight repair of the toe extensors to finger extensors limits joint motion. We reviewed our surgical techniques with this consideration. Thirty-eight fingers that we followed for 6 to 123 months had active range of motion of the reconstructed proximal interphalangeal joint in the finger of 58° (range 17°–76°) with an extensor deficit of 18° (range 0°–30°). We consider that the extensor mechanism and central slip insertion to the middle phalanx must be reconstructed meticulously to improve joint motion and decrease extension lag, and design of a lateral skin flap paddle to better cover vessels and allow extensor repairs.
The early years of the energy regulator in Italy
Authors: Ranci Pippo
Published: June 2019

As president of a newly created regulatory authority for energy in Italy from 1996 to 2003, I lived through a radical transformation of the industry of electricity and gas, and also of the Italian institutions dealing with the governance of the economy. It was a complex task, based on a clear legal basis and support from the industry and from the public, and yet facing resistance from cultural inertia and organised interests. The same transformation was under way in all Europe, and strong European links were greatly useful.
Combination of 2 Bioactive Compounds for Treatment of Breast Cancer: Triterpenoid Cucurbitacin I and Phenolic CAPE
Authors: Karakuş Fuat , Yılmaz Kadir , Eyol Ergül , Ünüvar Songül
Published: June 2019

It has been demonstrated that both cucurbitacin I (Cu I) and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) have anticancer activities. The current study aimed to examine the proliferation, migration, and colony formation actions of Cu I and CAPE on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells. The antimigration, antiproliferative, and colony inhibition effects of different dosages of Cu I, CAPE, and Cu I + CAPE on cells were determined by the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) cell viability assay, wound healing, and colony formation assays, respectively. Compared with single treatment, combination of 2 bioactive compounds enhanced the anticancer activity. When Cu I and CAPE were combined, a strong inhibitor effect was shown on cell growth, colony formation, and cell migration compared with the compounds used singly. The concomitant treatment with Cu I and CAPE showed stronger antiproliferative activities on both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells compared with individual treatment with either Cu I or CAPE. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester is a specific inhibitor of Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). It shows anticancer activity depending on this inhibition. It is a bioactive phenolic compound that is derived from propolis. Cucurbitacin I is a selective Januskinase/signal transducer and a transcription-3 signal pathway inhibitor. Combination of these 2 natural anticancer compounds is beneficial in the treatment of cancer, as well as the side effects associated with classical chemotherapeutics not being observed with the use of these compounds.
Millennial School Nurses: A Roundtable Discussion
Authors: Galemore Cynthia , Alattar Hedaya Y. , Fatica Kate , Huey Amy , Schulz Kathy
Published: June 2019

School nurses are proportionally older in age as compared to the overall U.S. nursing workforce. In anticipation of a school nurse workforce shortage in the next few years, we must focus our attention on developing and implementing orientation and transition programs for new school nurses, many of whom represent the millennial generation. Formative experiences are thought to create specific characteristics and difference between generations; yet, stereotypes are sometimes present in defining generations. The NASN School Nurse Editorial Advisory Board interviewed four millennial school nurses to highlight the need to embrace this new generation as they enter the specialty practice of school nursing.
Differential Expression of Extracellular Matrix Components in Nasal Polyp Endotypes
Authors: Feng Xin , Payne Spencer C. , Borish Larry , Steinke John W.
Published: June 2019

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis is a difficult-to-treat disease that is often characterized by recurrent nasal polyp (NP) growth following surgical removal. The disease has been separated into distinct phenotypes based on cellular infiltrate or underlying physiological mechanisms. NPs are composed in part of an inflammatory cellular infiltrate, blood vessels, and a large amount of extracellular matrix (ECM). Despite the recognition of prominent ECM deposition, few studies have examined the components in detail and how they might differ with disease state.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to quantitate the expression of ECM components in NPs.

Methods

NPs were stained with pico-sirius red to determine total collagen content, and immunofluorescence was used to detect collagen I, collagen III, collagen IV, fibronectin, and laminin. Expression of each was quantitated and analyzed in relation to rhinosinusitis phenotype and separately as a function of polyp eosinophil number.

Results

When analyzed by phenotype, collagen I, collagen III, and fibronectin were expressed at the highest levels in noneosinophilic sinus disease. Collagen IV was not different among any groups, and its location was found predominately around vessels. When analyzed as a function of polyp eosinophil number, total collagen and collagen III showed a significant inverse correlation.

Conclusions

NP ECM composition differs with disease state with higher expression in cases where eosinophil levels are low. This suggests that in eosinophilic polyps there is a loss of matrix deposition either through break down or a failure to produce the essential components. Understanding these differences may identify new therapeutic targets.
The Relationship Between High-Level Violin Performers’ Movement and Evaluators’ Perception of Musicality
Authors: Bugaj Katarzyna A. , Mick James , Darrow Alice-Ann
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine possible relationships between the extent of high-level violin performers’ movement during performance and evaluators’ perceptions of their musicality. Stimuli were 10 excerpts of solo violin performances from the 2015 Tadeusz Wronski International Violin Competition for Solo Violin, selected to convey high and low amounts of performer movement. Participants were undergraduate music majors ( N = 274) divided into three groups by experimental conditions: visual-only ( n = 109), audio-only ( n = 78), or audio-visual ( n = 87). Analysis demonstrated that performers exhibiting high movement were perceived as more musical than performers exhibiting low movement. The findings suggest that even accomplished musicians are subject to evaluation biases based on stage presence and physical behaviors such as movement.
Risk prediction tools in cardiovascular disease prevention: A report from the ESC Prevention of CVD Programme led by the European Association of Preventive Cardiology (EAPC) in collaboration with the Acute Cardiovascular Care Association (ACCA) and the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions (ACNAP)
Authors: Rossello Xavier , Dorresteijn Jannick AN , Janssen Arne , Lambrinou Ekaterini , Scherrenberg Martijn , Bonnefoy-Cudraz Eric , Cobain Mark , Piepoli Massimo F , Visseren Frank LJ , Dendale Paul , This paper is a co-publication betw
Published: June 2019

Risk assessment have become essential in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Even though risk prediction tools are recommended in the European guidelines, they are not adequately implemented in clinical practice. Risk prediction tools are meant to estimate prognosis in an unbiased and reliable way and to provide objective information on outcome probabilities. They support informed treatment decisions about the initiation or adjustment of preventive medication. Risk prediction tools facilitate risk communication to the patient and their family, and this may increase commitment and motivation to improve their health. Over the years many risk algorithms have been developed to predict 10-year cardiovascular mortality or lifetime risk in different populations, such as in healthy individuals, patients with established cardiovascular disease and patients with diabetes mellitus. Each risk algorithm has its own limitations, so different algorithms should be used in different patient populations. Risk algorithms are made available for use in clinical practice by means of – usually interactive and online available – tools. To help the clinician to choose the right tool for the right patient, a summary of available tools is provided. When choosing a tool, physicians should consider medical history, geographical region, clinical guidelines and additional risk measures among other things. Currently, the U-prevent.com website is the only risk prediction tool providing prediction algorithms for all patient categories, and its implementation in clinical practice is suggested/advised by the European Association of Preventive Cardiology.
Radial versus femoral access in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing invasive management: A prespecified subgroup analysis from VALIDATE-SWEDEHEART
Authors: Völz Sebastian , Angerås Oskar , Koul Sasha , Haraldsson Inger , Sarno Giovanna , Venetsanos Dimitrios , Grimfärd Per , Ulvenstam Anders , Hofmann Robin , Hamid Mehmet , Henareh Loghman , Wagner Henrik , Jensen Jens , Danielewicz Mikael , Östlund Ollie , Eriksson Peter , Scherstén Fredrik , Linder Rickard , Råmunddal Truls , Pétursson Pétur , Fröbert Ole , James Stefan , Erlinge David , Omerovic Elmir
Published: June 2019

Aims:

In the Bivalirudin versus Heparin in ST-Segment and Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Patients on Modern Antiplatelet Therapy in the Swedish Web System for Enhancement and Development of Evidence-based Care in Heart Disease Evaluated according to Recommended Therapies Registry Trial (VALIDATE-SWEDEHEART), bivalirudin was not superior to unfractionated heparin in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing invasive management. We assessed whether the access site had an impact on the primary endpoint of death, myocardial infarction or major bleeding at 180 days and whether it interacted with bivalirudin/unfractionated heparin.

Methods and results:

A total of 6006 patients with acute coronary syndrome planned for percutaneous coronary intervention were randomised to either bivalirudin or unfractionated heparin. Arterial access was left to the operator discretion. Overall, 90.5% of patients underwent transradial access and 9.5% transfemoral access. Baseline risk was higher in transfemoral access. The unadjusted hazard ratio for the primary outcome was lower with transradial access (hazard ratio 0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.43–0.67, p<0.001) and remained lower after multivariable adjustment (hazard ratio 0.56, 95% confidence interval 0.52–0.84, p<0.001). Transradial access was associated with lower risk of death (hazard ratio 0.41, 95% confidence interval 0.28–0.60, p<0.001) and major bleeding (hazard ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.44–0.75, p<0.001). There was no interaction between treatment with bivalirudin and access site for the primary endpoint ( p=0.976) or major bleeding ( p=0.801).

Conclusions:

Transradial access was associated with lower risk of death, myocardial infarction or major bleeding at 180 days. Bivalirudin was not associated with less bleeding, irrespective of access site.
New Right Metapolitics and the Algorithmic Activism of Schild & Vrienden
Authors: Maly Ico
Published: June 2019

Digital media play an important role in the contemporary rise in visibility of New Right and far-right activist groups online, offline, and in the mainstream media. This visibility has boosted their online and offline mobilization power. Through a live digital ethnographic analysis of the rise of Schild & Vrienden, a recent Flemish far-right activist movement, I will argue that we should understand their online and offline activism as part of a “metapolitical battle” exploiting the affordances of digital media in a hybrid media system. Schild & Vrienden, just like most contemporary New Right movements, draws ideological and strategic inspiration from “ La Nouvelle Droite,” the French far-right school of thought. Following their lead, these activists focus first and foremost on the circulation and the normalization of ideas: the discursive or metapolitical battle for hegemony. Digital media like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube prove to be ideal platforms for that metapolitical battle enabling them to gain considerable discursive power in a hybrid media system. This article argues that the distribution of New Right content on these platforms presupposes digital literacy and algorithmic activism. “Algorithmic activists” are defined as activists who use (theoretical or practical) knowledge about the relative weight certain signals have within the proceduralized choices the algorithms of the media platforms make as proxies of human judgment, to reach their (meta)political goals. In this sense, “algorithmic activism” contributes to spreading their message by interacting with the post to trigger the algorithms of the medium, so that they boost the popularity rankings.
Cost Analysis of Single-Level Lumbar Fusions
Authors: Beckerman Daniel , Esparza Melissa , Lee Sun Ik , Berven Sigurd H. , Bederman S. Samuel , Hu Serena S. , Burch Shane , Deviren Vedat , Tay Bobby , Mummaneni Praveen V. , Chou Dean , Ames Christopher P.
Published: June 2019

Study Design:

Cost analysis of a retrospectively identified cohort of patients who had undergone primary single-level lumbar fusion at a single institution’s orthopedic or neurosurgery department.

Objective:

The purpose of this article is to analyze the determinants of direct costs for single-level lumbar fusions and identify potential areas for cost reduction.

Methods:

Adult patients who underwent primary single-level lumbar fusion from fiscal years 2008 to 2012 were identified via administrative and departmental databases and were eligible for inclusion. Patients were excluded if they underwent multiple surgeries, had previous surgery at the same anatomic region, underwent corpectomy, kyphectomy, disc replacement, surgery for tumor or infection, or had incomplete cost data. Demographic data, surgical data, and direct cost data in the categories of supplies, services, room and care, and pharmacy, was collected for each patient.

Results:

The cohort included 532 patients. Direct costs ranged from $8286 to $73 727 (median = $21 781; mean = $22 890 ± $6323). Surgical approach was an important determinant of cost. The mean direct cost was highest for the circumferential approach and lowest for posterior instrumented spinal fusions without an interbody cage. The difference in mean direct cost between transforaminal lumbar interbody fusions, anterior lumbar interbody fusions, and lateral transpsoas fusions was not statistically significant. Surgical supplies accounted for 44% of direct costs. Spinal implants were the primary component of supply costs (84.9%). Services accounted for 38% of direct costs and were highly dependent on operative time. Comorbidities were an important contributor to variance in the cost of care as evidenced by high variance in pharmacy costs and length of stay related to their management.

Conclusion:

The costs of spinal surgeries are highly variable. Important cost drivers in our analysis included surgical approach, implants, operating room time, and length of hospital stay. Areas of high cost and high variance offer potential targets for cost savings and quality improvements.
Multiple sclerosis neuropathic arthropathy of elbow: Report of a rare case and literature review
Authors: Hassani Mohammad , Shariyate Mohammad Javad , Abbasi Bita , Karimooy Faezeh Nemati
Published: June 2019

Neuropathic arthropathy (NA) is a progressive degenerative and destructive joint disease associated with underlying chronic neurologic deficit. A 34-year-old woman was referred to our tumor clinic with swelling and destruction of her left elbow joint. Except for a 5-year history of multiple sclerosis (MS), she had no other underlying diseases. Suspected of tumor involvement, she had been undergone an open biopsy. The pathologic report was fibromatosis, which was not compatible with imaging studies and clinical presentations. Second surgical inspection and cellular study didn’t prove tumoral involvement. Magnetic resonance images (MRIs) showed multiple hyper signal plaques in her cervical spine. MRI findings, clinical features, surgical observations, and disproportionate painless elbow destruction all confirmed the MS NA diagnosis.
Spontaneous Retroperitoneal Hematoma: A Rare Presentation of Polyarteritis Nodosa
Authors: Ullah Asad , Marwat Asghar , Suresh Krithika , Khalil Ahmed , Waseem Saba
Published: June 2019

Spontaneous retroperitoneal hematoma is a rare clinical entity that is most commonly caused by renal tumors and vascular disease. In this article, we present a case of spontaneous retroperitoneal hemorrhage caused by polyarteritis nodosa in a patient who presented with severe left flank pain. He underwent computed tomography angiography of his abdomen that showed left retroperitoneal hematoma, which was followed by arteriogram that showed multiple bilateral renal artery aneurysms with active extravasation, findings consistent with polyarteritis nodosa. The patient underwent successful coiling of the bleeding vessel that secured the bleeding and was started on high-dose prednisone, which resulted in resolution of his symptoms.
High Prevalence of Anterolateral Ligament Abnormalities on MRI in Knees With Acute Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: A Case-Control Series From the SANTI Study Group
Authors: Ferretti Andrea , Monaco Edoardo , Redler Andrea , Argento Giuseppe , De Carli Angelo , Saithna Adnan , Helito Paulo Victor Partezani , Helito Camilo Partezani
Published: June 2019

Background:

Broad variation in the reported rate of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–detected abnormalities of the anterolateral structures of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)–injured knee suggests a lack of reliability that has limited the use of MRI in clinical decision making.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The aim of this study was to use MRI to determine the prevalence and spectrum of abnormalities of the anterolateral structures in acute ACL-injured knees, using the contralateral uninjured knee as a reference. We hypothesized that MRI evaluation of the acutely injured knee (using the uninjured knee as a reference) would allow reliable identification of abnormalities of the anterolateral structures.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients with acute ACL injury underwent MRI scan of both knees. Images were evaluated by 3 observers. Inter- and intraobserver reliabilities were determined for MRI parameters of anterolateral ligament (ALL) injury by use of the kappa (κ) test. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to test associations between ALL abnormality and associated injuries.

Results:

A total of 34 patients were evaluated. Of these, 30 patients (88.2%) had at least 1 ALL abnormality in the ACL-injured knee (increased signal: n = 27[79.4%]; increased thickness: n = 15[44.1%]; tapering: n = 7[20.6%]; irregularities in the path of the ALL fibers: n = 21[61.7%]). Asymmetries of the genicular vessels were observed in 21 patients (61.7%). ALL abnormality was significantly associated with lateral joint capsular tears ( P < .001). No correlation was found between ALL lesions and iliotibial band lesions ( P = .49). Inter- and intraobserver reliabilities were very good concerning ALL signal changes and femoral and tibial bone bruises (κ coefficient, 0.81-1).

Conclusion:

MRI evaluation of the ALL was associated with good and very good inter- and intraobserver reliabilities, and it demonstrated abnormalities of the ALL in the majority of acutely ACL-injured knees. The index of suspicion for ALL injury should be elevated by the presence of lesions of the lateral capsule. This suggests that the ALL is part of a wider area of the lateral capsule that is often injured simultaneously in an acute ACL tear.
Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Single-Dose Hyaluronic Acid for the Treatment of Patellofemoral Chondromalacia
Authors: Hart Joe M. , Kuenze Chris , Norte Grant , Bodkin Stephan , Patrie James , Denny Claire , Hart Jennifer , Diduch David R.
Published: June 2019

Background:

Patellofemoral pain is common in the young and active populations. Nonoperative management is limited and focuses on physical therapy. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an injectable device that has been used for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

Hypothesis:

A single injection of HA would reduce pain and improve function in patients with patellofemoral pain who had previously failed conservative management.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 86 patients with patellofemoral pain (65 females, 21 males; mean ± SD age, 27.0 ± 7.7 years; height, 168.6 ± 8.9 cm; weight, 74.6 ± 17.0 kg; body mass index, 26.2 ± 5.2 kg/m2) enrolled in this study after failing conservative management. Patients were randomly allocated to either 6 mL of HA or a sham injection. All patients were prescribed an additional home exercise program, including lower extremity strengthening and flexibility exercises, and were evaluated at 1, 3, and 6 months. Outcome assessments included patellofemoral pain assessment with a visual analog scale during a single-legged squat, KOOS (Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score), Kujala score, Tegner activity rating, and normalized isometric knee extension strength. Group assignment was revealed after the 6-month assessment, and crossover treatment was offered to patients in the sham group who were still symptomatic. Linear mixed models were used to compare outcomes between groups and across time.

Results:

A total of 45 patients were randomized to HA injection and 41 to sham, with 6 patients lost to follow-up (93% follow-up rate). Patients in both groups experienced a significant reduction in visual analog pain ratings and significant improvements in all domains of the KOOS and in Kujala scores at 6 months when compared with baseline measurement ( P < .05); however, there was no significant difference between groups. There were no differences observed over time or between groups for normalized knee extension strength or Tegner activity rating ( P > .05).

Conclusion:

HA injection had no clinically meaningful effect on pain or functional outcomes in patients diagnosed with patellofemoral pain. Improvements were observed for both groups in patient-reported pain and function, with no change in quadriceps strength or activity rating.

Registration:

NCT01771952 ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).
Kautilya’s Relevance in VUCA
Authors: Kamath Rajesh
Published: June 2019

In this article, I draw on the wisdom from Kautilya’s Arthashastra to understand the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous context. I focus on the sutras pertaining to controllable and uncontrollable situations, the four principles of execution, the Chatumandal framework of making the uncertain visible, and finally the 11 questions that capture the wisdom on success. Drawing on my experience in consulting for organisations, I have attempted to provide a formula that can help HR leaders to navigate their roles with this background.
Effect of solvent on PARALOID® B72 and B44 acrylic resins used as adhesives in conservation
Authors: Vinçotte Armand , Beauvoit Emmie , Boyard Nicolas , Guilminot Elodie
Published: June 2019

Paraloid® is one of the most frequently used acrylic polymers, employed mainly for its adhesive and consolidating properties in the conservation of a wide range of materials. Appreciated for its reversibility, mechanical characteristics and ease of use, application of the polymer requires it to be simply dissolved in a solvent. Nevertheless, the chemical nature of the relevant solvent must be regarded as an essential parameter, due to its influence on the physico-chemical characteristics of the resulting adhesive film. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the solvents used with Paraloid® acrylic resin on adhesive film properties, and more specifically on their thermophysical characteristics. Two compounds used in conservation (Paraloid® B72 and B44) and six solvents (ethanol, acetone, ethyl acetate, ethyl lactate, butyl acetate and toluene) were used to make adhesive film replicates. Thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses allowed us to determine the value of the glass transition temperature (Tg) of solvent/Paraloid® mixtures. Mass monitoring of the films enabled us to correlate Tg values with the quantity of residual solvent. Results showed that all the solvents remained present for a long time in Paraloid® films when drying took place at room temperature. Moreover, DSC analysis highlighted the fact that residual solvent had a considerable impact on the value of film Tg. In fact, residual solvent significantly lowered the Tg value of Paraloid® (by up to 30 °C below its theoretical value). This underlined the importance of taking the impact of solvent on resin properties into account.
Multidisciplinary Effort to Decrease Time From Admission to Chemotherapy on an Inpatient Oncology Unit
Authors: Man Louise , Sen Jeremy , Giordano Jeanne , McLoughlin Erin , Morris Amy , DeGregory Kathlene , Thomas Tanya , Daniels Elizabeth , Huntsinger Lisa , Keng Michael
Published: June 2019

There are no national standards for time between patient arrival and the initiation of scheduled chemotherapy (time to chemotherapy [TTC]). Delays in this process have a negative impact on patient care and the use of health care resources. At the University of Virginia Cancer Center, mean TTC in 2015 was 12.1 hours and mean length of stay (LOS) was 5.45 days at baseline. We formed a multidisciplinary team that participated in ASCO’s Quality Training Program. We aimed to improve TTC by 10% over 6 months. We used Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles as quality improvement (QI) models and used XmR charts to evaluate the interventions. The first PDSA cycle involved amending the chemotherapy consent process; mean TTC and LOS improved to 9.3 hours and 4.65 days, respectively. The second PDSA cycle involved shifting pharmacist review of chemotherapy orders to before admission rather than after patient arrival. Mean TTC remained at 9.4 hours (net 22% improvement from baseline) and LOS improved to 4.33 days (net 21% improvement). Our team surpassed the 10% improvement goal for TTC. This QI project faced a few limitations. Our baseline data set was a retrospective cohort review. In addition, oncology patients have a wide range of individual clinical needs that may have an impact on TTC. Delays in TTC have an impact on oncologic care at many medical centers. Our project highlights the need for guidance on this issue. We recommend that other institutions form multidisciplinary teams and also use QI tools to assess delays and implement changes.
Female-Specific Role of Progranulin to Suppress Bone Formation
Authors: Wang Liping , Roth Theresa , Nakamura Mary C , Nissenson Robert A
Published: June 2019

Progranulin (PGRN) is best known as a glial protein for which deficiency leads to the most common inherited form of frontotemporal dementia. Recently, PGRN has been found to be an adipokine associated with diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Therefore, PGRN may have homeostatic effects on bone because PGRN is reported to promote the differentiation of bone-resorbing osteoclasts. We investigated the actions of PGRN on bone using PGRN gene (Grn) knockout (KO) mice and transgenic mice with PGRN mutation and surprisingly found that loss of PGRN prevented the bone loss in female mice induced by aging and estrogen deficiency, whereas it had no effect on male bones during aging. Strikingly, bone formation was increased in female (but not male) PGRN KO mice. We also found that loss of PGRN inhibited bone resorption and osteoclastogenesis in both male and female mice and promoted the production of osteogenic factors in osteoclast lineage cells. These results indicate that PGRN serves to uncouple bone turnover in female mice by promoting bone resorption and suppressing bone formation. Furthermore, we demonstrated that microglial cells/macrophages, but not adipocytes, are an important source of PGRN in producing negative skeletal effects in females. Targeting PGRN production by microglial cells/macrophage-lineage cells may provide a therapeutic approach for the treatment of osteoporosis in females.
Dermatoglyphical impressions are different between children and adolescents with normal weight, overweight and obesity: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alberti Adriano , Kupek Emil , Comim Clarissa Martinelli , Rossoni Carina , Ruiz Reyes Myrna Alicia , Aparecida De Jesus Josiane , Grigollo Leoberto Ricardo , Becker da Silva Bruna , Duarte dos Santos Ubirajara , Souza Renan , Fin Gracielle , Baretta Elisabeth , Nodari Júnior Rudy José
Published: June 2019

Background: Obesity is a health condition that causes a great impact on public health. The aim of this study was to determine the association between dermatoglyphic characteristics and excessive weight in children and adolescents aged 10 to 19 years in the center-west region of Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Methods: The sample comprised of 2,172 children and adolescents aged 10 to 19 years old of both sexes and from public and private teaching networks.

Results: The results suggested a predictive marker of obesity, with a greater number of lines in left hand finger two (Mesql2) and a higher frequency of the whorl pattern in participants of a healthy weight, while the overweight group had a higher frequency of the radial loop pattern and the obese group had a higher frequency of the ulnar loop pattern.

Conclusion: It was concluded that there may be different dermatoglyphic characteristics depending on the nutritional status of children and adolescents.
InferAMP, a python web app for copy number inference from discrete gene-level amplification signals noted in clinical tumor profiling reports
Authors: Kenny Paraic A.
Published: June 2019

As somatic next-generation sequencing gene panel analysis in advanced cancer patients is becoming more routine, oncologists are frequently presented with reports containing lists of genes with increased copy number. Distinguishing which of these amplified genes, if any, might be driving tumor growth and might thus be worth considering targeting can be challenging. One particular issue is the frequent absence of genomic contextual information in clinical reports, making it very challenging to determine which reported genes might be co-amplified and how large any such amplicons might be. We describe a straightforward Python web app, InferAMP, into which healthcare professionals may enter lists of amplified genes from clinical reports. The tool reports (1) the likely size of amplified genomic regions, (2) which reported genes are co-amplified and (3) which other cancer-relevant genes that were not evaluated in the assay may also be co-amplified in the specimen. The tool is accessible for web queries at http://inferamp.org.
Hybrid Power Sharing: On How to Stabilize the Political Situation in Multi-segmental Societies
Authors: Krzysztof Trzciński
Published: June 2019

There are various ways of reducing conflicts and of stabilizing the political situation in states where society is made up of many different ethnic groups and religious communities, and where relations between these segments – or between them and the central government – are tense. A particularly important way is the establishment in those states of a political system based on power-sharing (PS), which allows members of various ethnic and religious segments to take part in the exercise of power. The literature on the subject usually discusses two models of PS: consociationalism and centripetalism. A third model is encountered in practice, however, that of hybrid power-sharing (HPS), which combines the institutions of the first two. The main objective of this article is to explain the nature and origins of HPS. As examples, I will use the political systems of Nigeria and Indonesia. In the first part of the article I explain briefly the nature of PS, and of its two main models; in the second I explain what HPS is; in the third I analyze the emergence of HPS, and give the causes of the inclusion of consociational institutions in political systems in which centripetal institutions are dominant, using the cases of Nigeria and Indonesia; I draw conclusions in the final part.
intersubjetividade: um olhar sobre a comunidade de investigação filosófica
Authors: Vieira Paula alexandra
Published: June 2019

O paradigma da intersubjetividade preconizado por Jürgen Habermas fundou uma forma de chegar a consensos racionalmente fundamentados. A sua obra aponta para a ideia de que o que mantém as pessoas numa atitude de ação comunicativa são as forças da fundamentação racional e da motivação racional. Ao analisarmos a dimensão intersubjetiva da prática da comunidade de investigação filosófica, demo-nos conta de que é possível verificar a passagem de uma autonomia da razão centrada no sujeito (um pensar por si mesmo), para a prática de uma racionalidade comunicativa (centrada num pensamento em comunidade). Os pressupostos inevitáveis da comunicação fundam e mantêm as comunidades e permitem o clima de confiança e de cuidado que possibilita que os membros da comunidade pensem livremente e se deixem guiar pela força do we, do nós, do nos-otros. Não é somente em contexto de comunidades de investigação filosófica que se verificam as potencialidades do paradigma da intersubjetividade de Habermas. Também na discussão entre especialistas podemos encontrar essas potencialidades. Foi, em certa medida, este o rasto que conseguimos traçar ao investigarmos as diferentes abordagens de Ann Sharp, David Kennedy e Giuseppe Ferraro sobre a noção de comunidade de investigação filosófica. O diálogo estabelecido entre estes filósofos e o conceito de comunidade de investigação filosófica, os seus argumentos e as formas de concretização do diálogo filosófico em comunidade, dão conta da fecundidade da racionalidade comunicativa. Sabemos que o conceito de comunidade de investigação filosófica, tal como é pensado e vivido por Ann Sharp, é distinto do conceito de comunidade de investigação filosófica de David Kennedy. Percebemos que o círculo do pensar de Giuseppe Ferraro é uma outra abordagem ao pensamento filosófico em comunidade. No entanto, na nossa investigação estas abordagens entraram em diálogo e, em boa medida, devido ao que é permitido pelo próprio movimento de uma racionalidade comunicativa. Estas possibilidades de diálogo dão-se no pressuposto de uma relação intersubjetiva também entre conceitos, experiências e pensamento sobre os conceitos e as experiências. O caminho percorrido entre a comunidade de investigação filosófica entendida como espaço de intersubjetividade (Sharp, 1987), passando pela abertura da comunidade de investigação filosófica a outras dimensões não discursivas da comunicação (Kennedy, 1994) e avançando para o círculo do pensar que enche o espaço de tempo e o torna num lugar (Ferraro, 2018) revela como a comunidade de investigação filosófica é um conceito e uma experiência abertos e fecundos: um conceito em ação.
la filosofía con niños como experiencia transformadora. una propuesta en organizaciones sin ánimo de lucro
Authors: Barrientos-rastrojo José
Published: June 2019

Son evidentes los beneficios que supone la implementación de la metodología de Filosofía en Niños; sin embargo, un énfasis excesivo en las habilidades de pensamiento crítico provoca debilidades en su aplicación en grupos en riesgos de exclusión social. Éstos precisan una transformación profunda y no sólo una mejor forma de pensar. Esto es debido a la disonancia cognitiva provocada cuando sólo se trabaja con dimensiones discursivas: los participantes de las sesiones pueden aprender a dar buenas respuestas sin que esto se materialice más allá de las reuniones filosóficas. Un modo de enfrentar esta limitación consiste en diseñar una razón experiencial, inscrita, parcialmente, en el pensamiento cuidadoso de Mathew Lipman (2003, PP. 261-270). Si la experiencia de vida determina la construcción identitaria de los niños (Romano, 2012; Nishida, 1995; Zambrano, 1995), es crucial indagar en su significado y en cómo se articula. Por tanto, una Filosofía con Niños Experiencial, foco de este trabajo, no se centra exclusivamente en el trabajo discursivo arraigado en el pensamiento crítico. De hecho, se funda en tres pilares: (1) la creación de ejercicios experienciales, (2) el fomento de disposiciones que incentive la capacidad transformadora de éstos y (3) el diseño de escenarios y metáforas experienciales que fomenten la consecución de las verdades transformadoras. Este trabajo describe las limitaciones del abordaje cognitivo del trabajo filosófico con niños, resume las bases de la experiencialidad y añade un breve anexo del trabajo emprendido en la Universidad de Sevilla en algunas Asociaciones sin ánimo de lucro como el Proyecto Maparra de Cáritas.
Unconventional Methods in Voynich Manuscript Analysis
Authors: Zelinka Ivan , Zmeskal Oldrich , Windsor Leah , Cai Zhiqiang
Published: June 2019

This paper discusses the possible use of unconventional algorithms on analysis and categorization of the unknown text, including documents written in unknown languages. Scholars have identied about ten famous manuscripts, mostly encrypted or written in the unknown language. The most famous is the Voynich manuscript, an illustrated codex hand-written in an unknown language or writing system. Using carbon-dating methods, the researchers determined its age as the early 15th century (between 1404-1438). Many professional and amateur cryptographers have studied the Voynich manuscript, and none has deciphered its meaning as yet, including American and British code-breakers and cryptologists. While there exist many hypotheses about the meaning and structure of the document, they have yet to be conrmed empirically. In this paper, we discuss two dierent kinds of unconventional approaches for how to handle manuscripts with unidentied writing systems and determine whether its properties are characterized by a natural language, or is only historical fake text.
Machine Learning Blunts the Needle of Advanced SQL Injections
Authors: Volkova Marina , Chmelar Petr , Sobotka Lukas
Published: June 2019

SQL injection is one of the most popular and serious information security threats. By exploiting database vulnerabilities, attackers may get access to sensitive data or enable compromised computers to conduct further network attacks. Our research is focused on applying machine learning approaches for identication of injection characteristics in the HTTP query string. We compare results from Rule-based Intrusion Detection System, Support Vector Machines, Multilayer Perceptron, Neural Network with Dropout layers, and Deep Sequential Models (Long Short-Term Memory, and Gated Recurrent Units) using multiple string analysis, bag-of-word techniques, and word embedding for query string vectorization. Results proved benets of applying machine learning approach for detection malicious pattern in HTTP query string.
On the Political History of Destruction
Authors: Anidjar Gil
Published: June 2019

This essay seeks to reframe the question of continuity (or discontinuity) between Orientalism and Islamophobia as, underlying the question, is an enduring conception of history as agentive, as a “making,” a “construction,” or a “production” (“Men make their own history …”). Turning our attention instead towarddestructivepower—distinct from repressive and coerciveandfrom productive and enabling modes of power (Foucault, Said)—a distinct history, or anti-history, emerges, which necessitates a different lexicon. Political or subjectformationsmight still be at stake, but another logic or illogic, a different politics may become visible where the main concern is not the making of world (Arendt), but its undoing; not the production of collectives or of individual subjects, but their destruction. Torture, as Jean Améry described it, is one such destruction of world. It may thus become possible to ask whether, between Orientalism and Islamophobia, the Muslims orMuselmännerof the Nazi camps were a “product,” whether they were “made” into subjects. The essay builds on earlier reflections where elements of a lexicon and analytics of destruction were considered (Heidegger, Derrida), along with preliminary answers to the question: what is destruction? Or here: is there a history of destruction?
Circuito antiescravista atlântico: James Redpath e a Conferência Antiescravista de Paris, 1867
Authors: Ré Henrique Antonio
Published: June 2019

Depois do fim da Guerra Civil norte-americana houve um reordenamento das posições antiescravistas no mundo atlântico. Este artigo explora as cartas sobre a escravidão brasileira do abolicionista norte-americano James Redpath, e dois textos apresentados por agentes brasileiros na Conferência Antiescravista de Paris. O objetivo é demonstrar que, em ambos os casos, embora o assunto principal fosse a escravidão no Brasil, havia outros interesses coordenando essas intervenções. Isso mostra que a questão escravista era tão somente mais um elemento no tabuleiro internacional, e que qualquer análise que prescinda do contexto mais amplo corre o risco de ser incapaz de apreender os reais interesses em disputa.
Regulation of sclerostin in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO) in mice and humans
Authors: Thiele Sylvia , Hannemann Anke , Winzer Maria , Baschant Ulrike , Weidner Heike , Nauck Matthias , Thakker Rajesh V , Bornhäuser Martin , Hofbauer Lorenz C , Rauner Martina
Published: June 2019

Glucocorticoids (GC) are used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, including various forms of arthritis. However, their use is limited, amongst others, by adverse effects on bone. The Wnt and bone formation inhibitor sclerostin was recently implicated in the pathogenesis of GC-induced osteoporosis. However, data are ambiguous. The aim of this study was to assess the regulation of sclerostin by GC using several mouse models with high GC levels and two independent cohorts of patients treated with GC. Male 24-week-old C57BL/6 and 18-week-old DBA/1 mice exposed to GC and 12-week-old mice with endogenous hypercortisolism displayed reduced bone formation as indicated by reduced levels of P1NP and increased serum sclerostin levels. The expression of sclerostin in femoral bone tissue and GC-treated bone marrow stromal cells, however, was not consistently altered. In contrast, GC dose- and time-dependently suppressed sclerostin at mRNA and protein levels in human mesenchymal stromal cells, and this effect was GC receptor dependent. In line with the human cell culture data, patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA, n = 101) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR, n = 21) who were exposed to GC had lower serum levels of sclerostin than healthy age- and sex-matched controls (−40%, P < 0.01 and −26.5%, P < 0.001, respectively). In summary, sclerostin appears to be differentially regulated by GC in mice and humans as it is suppressed by GCs in humans but is not consistently altered in mice. Further studies are required to delineate the differences between GC regulation of sclerostin in mice and humans and assess whether sclerostin mediates GC-induced osteoporosis in humans.