bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using intercultural videos of direct contact to implement vicarious contact: A school-based intervention that improves intergroup attitudes
Authors: Vezzali Loris , Di Bernardo Gian Antonio , Stathi Sofia , Visintin Emilio Paolo , Hewstone Miles
Published: December 2018

We aimed to create an engaging and dynamic intervention for schools that uses videos of direct school peer contact to implement a vicarious contact intervention. Participants were ethnic majority (Italian) and minority (immigrant) high school students ( N = 485; age ranging from 14 to 22 years old, Mage = 17.24 years), who were asked to watch and evaluate videos created by peers from their school for a competition for the best video on intercultural friendships. Results revealed that vicarious contact, relative to a control condition where participants were not shown any videos, improved outgroup attitudes, reduced negative outgroup stereotypes, and increased willingness to engage in contact with the outgroup. These effects only emerged when intercultural friendships in the videos were salient. Inclusion of the other in the self, but neither intergroup anxiety nor fear of rejection by the outgroup, significantly mediated the effect of the videos on outcomes. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of the findings.
Variational iteration method with matrix Lagrange multiplier for nonlinear oscillators
Authors: Tao Zhao-Ling , Chen Guo-Hua , Chen Yi-Han
Published: December 2018

The variational iteration method is a famous mathematical tool to nonlinear oscillator, this paper shows that the method can be further improved by using matrix Lagrange multipliers. Four examples are given to show the effectiveness of the modified variational iteration method.
Analytical study of (3 + 1)-dimensional fractional ultralow-frequency dust acoustic waves in a dual-temperature plasma
Authors: Sun Junchao , Fu Lei , Yang Hongwei
Published: December 2018

Ultralow-frequency dust acoustic waves in plasma are an important branch of study in plasma physics. Due to the important application of dust acoustic waves in the space environment, industrial processing, and the laboratory, they have aroused great interest in physics and other disciplines. In this paper, dust acoustic waves in dust plasma containing double-temperature ions are studied. According to the equations of dust plasma motion considering the higher order perturbation factors, the (3 + 1)-dimensional Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equation is derived by using multiscale analysis and reduced perturbation methods. The result is a three-dimensional model describing the propagation of waves in space. Compared with the low-dimensional model, this model is more closely aligned with the actual physical situation. Further, to better comprehend the propagation features of dust acoustic waves in plasmas, with the help of the semi-inverse method and the fractional variational principle, the (3 + 1)-dimensional time-space-fractional Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equation is deduced. At the same time, based on the Lie symmetry analysis method, the conservation laws of the time-fractional Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equation are discussed, and the conserved quantities of dust acoustic waves in dual-temperature plasma are obtained. Finally, by virtue of the fractional subequation method, three types of exact analytical solutions of fractional Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equations are given. Drawing on the chirp concept in optical soliton communication, the chirp effect of ultralow-frequency dust acoustic waves is discussed, and the effects of dust temperature, ion temperature, and fractional order on dust acoustic waves in a dual-temperature plasma are studied using the analytical solutions.
A study of interlaminar properties for a unidirectional glass fiber reinforced epoxy composite
Authors: Pincheira G , Ferrada N , Hinojosa J , Montecino G , Torres L , Saavedra K
Published: December 2018

In this work, a numerical–experimental study of the interlaminar zone for an unidirectional glass fiber reinforced epoxy composite is carried out in order to predict the load–displacement curves of a double cantilever beam test. First, an experimental mechanical characterization of the laminated composite was made through quasi-static in-plane tensile and bending tests and out-of-plane delamination tests (i.e. double cantilever beam tests or opening mode I). The main results have shown that the elastic module in the fiber direction is E1 = 32.1 GPa and the fracture process is characterized by a critical energy release rate G IC = 1466 N/m. In order to be able to predict delamination using finite element analysis, a bilinear cohesive zone model is adopted. This law has two parameters—the initial stiffness [Formula: see text] and the critical traction [Formula: see text]—to be fit for reducing the distance between numerical and experimental double cantilever beam load–displacement curves. That means an optimization problem, which is here solved by proposing a very simple and cheap three-step procedure, avoiding expensive three-dimensional simulations: (i) the numerical double cantilever beam test is coded in the OCTAVE software using one-dimensional beam elements and the bilinear cohesive zone model; (ii) several one-dimensional simulations are performed varying at the cohesive law's parameters in order to build the objective function; and (iii) a genetic algorithm from the Scilab optimization toolbox is then used to determine the interface's parameters minimizing the objective function. This method has proposed [Formula: see text] = 2.74 × 1014 N/m3 and [Formula: see text] = 1.99 MPa as the best parameters fitting the curves. Finally, the identified bilinear cohesive law's parameters are used to carry out a full three-dimensional finite element analysis simulation in ANSYS, showing the same response than the simplified beam code, but with the possibility to obtain more accurate information about the fracture process (e.g. the shape of the process zone) or to use more complicated geometries or boundary conditions. In this work, we show the ability to predict the material behavior through different methods, using the best characteristics of each one.
Economic costs and health-related quality of life associated with individual specific reminiscence: Results from the InspireD Feasibility Study
Authors: Ferry Finola , Ryan Assumpta , McCauley Claire O , Laird Elizabeth A , Gibson Aideen , Mulvenna Maurice D , Bond Raymond , Bunting Brendan , Curran Kevin
Published: December 2018

Recent studies have focused on the use of technology to support reminiscence but there remains a dearth of research on the health costs and benefits associated with this intervention. The aim of this study was to estimate costs and quality of life associated with a home based, individual specific reminiscence intervention, facilitated by an iPad app for people living with dementia and their family carers, with a view to informing a future cost-effectiveness analysis. Use of community health and social care services, hospital services, prescribed medication and informal caregiving was assessed using an adapted version of the Client and Socio-Demographic Service Receipt Inventory (CSRI) at baseline and 3-month follow-up. Quality of life was assessed at baseline, 6-week and 3-month follow-up using the EQ5D, DEMQOL and DEMQOL proxy instruments. Results showed that average health and social care costs were £29,728 per person at baseline (T0) and £33,436 after 3 months (T2). Higher T2 costs were largely accounted for by higher informal caregiving costs. There was an overall increase in health-related quality of life over the duration of the intervention, although there were notable differences in index scores generated by the EQ5D (0.649, 0.652 and 0.719) and DEMQOL instruments (0.845, 0.968 and 0.901). The study concluded that a full cost-effectiveness analysis could incorporate a similar range of cost-categories with minor amendments to the CSRI to improve the accuracy of cost estimation. Furthermore, a larger sample size, randomisation and longer follow-up period are required to allow potential effects of the intervention to be realised and differences between intervention and control groups to be accurately detected.
Design of a combined lens for rectangular illumination
Authors: Zhu Z , Peng B , Yuan J , Xu X
Published: December 2018

Rectangular illumination has found extensive application in the field of LED lighting. In this paper, a design method for a combined lens has used the two characteristics of refraction and diffuse reflection for rectangular illumination. The combined lens is composed of a cutting lens and a pedestal. We determined the cutting lens through the shape of the target plane and then applied diffuse reflection material to the partial surface of the pedestal. The diffuse reflection material is used to improve the lighting efficiency of the target plane. The surface of the pedestal is obtained by lofting from the contour of the cutting lens to the contour of plane where the light source is placed. Based on this method, the combined lens is designed for rectangular illumination. The result shows that the performance of the target plane meets the requirements of rectangular lighting. The uniformity is about 88% and the lighting efficiency is improved to 75%.
A National Survey of Transplant Surgeons and Nephrologists on Implementing Apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) Genetic Testing Into Clinical Practice
Authors: Gordon Elisa J. , Wicklund Catherine , Lee Jungwha , Sharp Richard R. , Friedewald John
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

There is debate over whether Apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) gene risk variants contribute to African American (AA) live donors’ (LD) increased risk of kidney failure. Little is known about factors influencing physicians’ integration of APOL1 genetic testing of AA LDs into donor evaluation.

Design:

We conducted a cross-sectional survey, informed by Roger’s Diffusion of Innovations theory, among nephrology and surgeon members of the American Society of Nephrology, American Society of Transplantation, and American Society of Transplant Surgeons about their practices of and attitudes about APOL1 genetic testing of AA potential LDs. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses were performed.

Results:

Of 383 completed surveys, most physicians believed that APOL1 testing can help AA LDs make more informed donation decisions (87%), and the addition of APOL1 testing offers better clinical information about AA LD’s eligibility for donation than existing evaluation approaches (74%). Among respondents who evaluate LDs (n = 345), 63% would definitely or probably begin or continue using APOL1 testing in the next year, however, few use APOL1 testing routinely (4%) or on a case-by-case basis (14%). Most did not know the right clinical scenario to order APOL1 testing (59%), but would use educational materials to counsel AA LDs about APOL1 testing (97%).

Discussion:

Although physicians were highly supportive of APOL1 genetic testing for AA LDs, few physicians use APOL1 testing. As more physicians intend to use APOL1 testing, an ethical framework and clinical decision support are needed presently to assist clinicians in clarifying the proper indication of APOL1 genetic testing.
Antibiotic Resistance Policy and the Stewardship Role of the Nurse
Authors: Wiley Kenneth C. , Villamizar Hendel J.
Published: December 2018

Government policy, at all levels, should reflect current scientific evidence to curb the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) and to promote healthier lives for citizens and the global community. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 63,000 Americans die annually of infections from MDROs. Annual spending in the United States used to combat MDRO infections surpassed $35 billion in 2015. This article is a review of U.S. policy regarding MDROs and focuses on several means with which nurses can implement antibiotic stewardship within their practices to stall the creation and global spread of antibiotic-resistant organisms. Nurses are vital to successfully implementing methods of antibiotic stewardship as they are at the center of multidisciplinary health care teams and have the greatest direct patient contact of all members within the team. Methods of antibiotic stewardship include limiting the use of antibiotics within animal husbandry industries, promotion of health care policy in line with antibiotic stewardship standards, and adopting more stringent clinical prescribing practices of antibiotics used in human therapies. Application of these improvements to U.S. federal, state, and local facility policies is in line with current scientific evidence and will provide a framework for cohesive partnerships with nations and institutions abroad that also struggle with the spread of MDROs in their own communities.
Letter to the Editors
Authors: Gill Timothy M.
Published: December 2018

Timothy M. Gill writes to add context to the Summer 2018 issue’s policy brief and urge an interrogation of assumptions that democracy assistance is a benign form of foreign policy.
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders on TV
Authors: DuCros Faustina M. , Chin Christina B. , Lee Jenny Jong-Hwa , Yuen Nancy Wang , Deo Meera E. , Milman Noriko
Published: December 2018

Representation in media matters–so why is prime time still so white?
Epigenetics
Authors: Lacagnina Salvatore
Published: December 2018

The field of Epigenetics represents the science which helps us understand the influence life has on genetic function. Research has shown that what we do, what we are exposed to, and the internal and external environments have significant influence on the output of our genes. In this article, the reader will understand how alterations in the DNA explain how the genetic output us changed as a result of exposures to life.
Coverage of Taliban conflict in the Pak–Afghan press: A comparative analysis
Authors: Hussain Shabir , Siraj Syed Abdul
Published: December 2018

This study offers a quantitative analysis of the coverage of Taliban conflict in the four leading newspapers of Pakistan and Afghanistan through the perspective of war and peace journalism—developed by Johan Galtung and adopted by many scholars. Consistent with the existing literature, the researcher found that both the English and vernacular press in the two countries predominantly reported the Taliban conflict through war journalism framing. The local press was equally escalatory while reporting on the conflict. The press in the two countries showed remarkable differences in the war journalism framing but applied similar thematic strategies of peace journalism. The study advocates an academic juncture between political communication and peace journalism scholarship to identify the issues that influence media content during conflict times for better understanding of the potential role of media in peace and conflict resolution.
Static and dynamic reliability of WIMU PRO™ accelerometers according to anatomical placement
Authors: Gómez-Carmona Carlos D , Bastida-Castillo Alejandro , García-Rubio Javier , Ibáñez Sergio J , Pino-Ortega José
Published: December 2018

Currently, the use of accelerometry to analyze training and competition is on the increase. Thus, accelerometers must be reliable when calculating different variables from raw data. The purpose of this investigation was to assess the reliability of triaxial accelerometers that contain inertial devices for measuring external loads in sports. Four and eight WIMU PRO™ inertial devices (RealTrack Systems, Almeria, Spain) were assessed in laboratory and specific sport conditions, respectively. The laboratory test was performed in static (with and without stress) and dynamic (10 and 30 Hz vibrations) conditions. In addition, two tests were performed during continuous and intermittent activity: (1) an incremental progressive running test on the treadmill and (2) 5 min of a Soccer-Specific Aerobic Field Test (SAFT90), where the devices were placed on ankle, knee, lower back and scapulae. Direct assessment of the accelerometers by calculating a vector magnitude, expressed as total acceleration (AcelT), was used for reliability using bias, ±95% limits of agreement and coefficient of variation. A t-test and Pearson’s r were performed for test–retest reliability. In the laboratory assessments, an excellent within- and between-device static (with and without stress) and dynamic reliability were found (coefficient of variation = 0.23%–0.78%). A very high reliability was also observed in the incremental treadmill test (coefficient of variation = 2.20%) and SAFT90 (coefficient of variation = 2.96%) with a nearly perfect correlation between devices ( r = 0.99–1.00). Finally, in the between-sessions reliability analysis, excellent results ( p = 0.46–0.98; t  = 0.01–0.73) and a very strong correlation ( r = 0.86–0.96) was found with p values greater than 0.05 indicating no differences between the tests. In conclusion, the accelerometers of the tested device have shown excellent results for within- and between-device reliability and in test–retest analysis. Thus, this device can calculate all variables that depend on accelerometry measurement such as PlayerLoad™ or impacts in different ranges, and in different anatomical locations.
Outcomes and Return to Sport After Pectoralis Major Tendon Repair: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yu James , Zhang Cindy , Horner Nolan , Ayeni Olufemi R. , Leroux Timothy , Alolabi Bashar , Khan Moin
Published: December 2018

Context:

Pectoralis major tendon ruptures are becoming increasingly common due to the growing prevalence of active lifestyles. Studies investigating the efficacy of pectoralis major tendon repair have limited sample sizes and offer mixed results, while existing reviews do not explore postoperative activity outcomes for patients.

Objective:

To summarize and synthesize the clinical outcomes and rate of return to activity after isolated pectoralis major tendon repair.

Data Sources:

Four databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, and CINAHL) were searched from database inception through March 7, 2018.

Study Selection:

Studies reporting outcomes of isolated pectoralis major tendon repair for pectoralis major tendon rupture were included.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Data Extraction:

Data including patient demographics, intervention details, and clinical outcomes were extracted. The methodological quality of included studies was evaluated.

Results:

Of 2332 retrieved articles, 18 studies were included, with a total of 536 patients. A majority (90%; 134/149) of patients undergoing pectoralis major tendon repair successfully returned to sport at a mean 6.1 ± 1.7 months postsurgery, of which 74% (95/128) successfully returned to their preinjury level of sport. The majority (95%; 269/284) of patients returned to work at a mean 6.9 ± 1 months. Postsurgically, 81% (83/102) of patients experienced complete pain relief after the surgery, and 19% (21/109) had cosmetic complaints after pectoralis major repair. Of the 10 studies that reported complications, 18% (75/423) of patients had postoperative complications, including reruptures and wound infections; 7% (30/423) of patients required reoperation for their complications.

Conclusion:

Pectoralis major tendon repair is an effective treatment that results in a high rate of return to sport and work, pain relief, and improved cosmetic appearance, albeit with a significant rate of complication. The evidence supporting all outcomes was limited by the rarity of the injury, the variable surgical techniques, and outcome assessment criteria.
Adapt or perish: Recent developments on social protection in the EU under a gig deal of pressure
Authors: Aranguiz Ane , Bednarowicz Bartłomiej
Published: December 2018

In times of the so-called gig economy, access to an adequate level of social protection should not depend on whether or not a person is working on a standard employment contract. Access to social protection for non-standard forms of labour and self-employment is, as a matter of fact, one of the main themes being discussed at the moment within the debates surrounding the European Pillar of Social Rights. This article aims at assessing the recent initiatives at the EU level that have the objective of ensuring access to social protection for all and both granting and enforcing transparent and predictable working conditions for workers. Accordingly, this contribution first sheds some light on the discussion on non-standard forms of labour and the problematics surrounding the emergence of new forms of labour to later analyse the new EU initiatives, in particular, the proposal for a Recommendation on access to social protection for workers and the self-employed. It concludes by welcoming the recent position of the EU with regard to such challenges, yet emphasising also the need to do more.
Why are there ethnic differences in cardio-metabolic risk factors and cardiovascular diseases?
Authors: Dal Canto E , Farukh B , Faconti L
Published: December 2018

Europe’s population is becoming increasingly ethnically diverse, and epidemiological studies indicate that there are remarkable differences in cardio-metabolic risk factors between ethnic groups living in the same area. Variations observed in the distribution of cardiovascular risk factors in these communities may therefore help explain—at least in part—the different burdens on cardiovascular diseases. So far, the underlying pathophysiology leading to ethnic variations in the prevalence of cardio-metabolic risk factors is still poorly understood but it is likely to represent the complex interactions from several innate and environmental factors. Tailored prevention and treatment strategies should therefore be implemented in those “high-risk populations,” but data derived from randomized clinical trials are still limited. This article will provide an overview on the role of ethnicity on cardio-metabolic risk factors and cardiovascular diseases, focusing on type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia based mainly on Dutch and British data.
Postoperative Spine Infection: Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Dowdell James , Brochin Robert , Kim Jun , Overley Samuel , Oren Jonathan , Freedman Brett , Cho Samuel
Published: December 2018

Study Design:

Review article.

Objectives:

A review of the literature on postoperative spinal infections, their diagnosis, and management.

Methods:

A systematic computerized Medline literature search was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and EMBASE. The electronic databases were searched for publication dates from the last 10 years. The searches were performed from Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) used by the National Library of Medicine. Specifically, MeSH terms “spine,” “infections,” “management,” and “diagnosis” were used.

Results:

Currently, the gold standard for diagnosis of postoperative spine infection is positive deep wound culture. Many of the current radiologic and laboratory tests can assist with the initial diagnosis and monitoring treatment response. Currently erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, computed tomography scan, and magnetic resonance imaging with and without contrast are used in combination to establish diagnosis. Management of postoperative spine infection involves thorough surgical debridement and targeted antibiotic therapy.

Conclusions:

Postoperative spine infection is a not uncommon complication following surgery that may have devastating consequences for a patient’s short- and long-term health. A high index of suspicion is needed to make an early diagnosis.
Not ‘getting on the bandwagon’: When climate change is a matter of unconcern
Authors: Lucas Chloe H , Davison Aidan
Published: December 2018

Extensive research into public attitudes about climate change commonly portrays those who do not express concern about this issue as unwitting victims of their own or others’ biases. Characterised as apathy, ignorance, scepticism or denial, absence of concern about climate change has been presented as being rooted in an individual’s lack of considered engagement with scientific reasons for concern. This ‘concern deficit’ is framed as a problem to be addressed through policy, education and communication that seeks to maximise concern about climate change. In contrast, we conceptualise unconcern about climate change as an expression of focal life concerns that are incommensurable with dominant narratives of climate change. Originating in active cognitive, social and experiential processes, we regard unconcern about climate change as inseparable from the lived contexts in which it is expressed and irreducible to the attitudes or attributes of individuals. Using narrative analysis of repeat in-depth interviews with Australians who express unconcern about climate change, we find that this unconcern has multiple sources, takes diverse forms and is entangled in epistemological and normative engagements with other issues. It is constituted through social relationships, discursive processes, moral values and embodied experiences that are overlooked in much existing research. We argue that respectful attention to the experiential conditions in which concern about climate change is resisted can enable constructive re-negotiation of narratives of climate change. Such agonistic processes could lead to more reflexive, pluralist and dialogical forms of discourse that better articulate climate science and policy with a wider diversity of lived concerns.
Pathology and pathobiology of pulmonary hypertension: state of the art and research perspectives
Authors: Humbert Marc , Guignabert Christophe , Bonnet Sébastien , Dorfmüller Peter , Klinger James R. , Nicolls Mark R. , Olschewski Andrea J. , Pullamsetti Soni S. , Schermuly Ralph T. , Stenmark Kurt R. , Rabinovitch Marlene
Published: December 2018

Clinical and translational research has played a major role in advancing our understanding of pulmonary hypertension (PH), including pulmonary arterial hypertension and other forms of PH with severe vascular remodelling (e.g. chronic thromboembolic PH and pulmonary veno-occlusive disease). However, PH remains an incurable condition with a high mortality rate, underscoring the need for a better transfer of novel scientific knowledge into healthcare interventions. Herein, we review recent findings in pathology (with the questioning of the strict morphological categorisation of various forms of PH into pre- or post-capillary involvement of pulmonary vessels) and cellular mechanisms contributing to the onset and progression of pulmonary vascular remodelling associated with various forms of PH. We also discuss ways to improve management and to support and optimise drug development in this research field.
Haemodynamic definitions and updated clinical classification of pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Simonneau Gérald , Montani David , Celermajer David S. , Denton Christopher P. , Gatzoulis Michael A. , Krowka Michael , Williams Paul G. , Souza Rogerio
Published: December 2018

Since the 1st World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension (WSPH) in 1973, pulmonary hypertension (PH) has been arbitrarily defined as mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) ≥25 mmHg at rest, measured by right heart catheterisation. Recent data from normal subjects has shown that normal mPAP was 14.0±3.3 mmHg. Two standard deviations above this mean value would suggest mPAP >20 mmHg as above the upper limit of normal (above the 97.5th percentile). This definition is no longer arbitrary, but based on a scientific approach. However, this abnormal elevation of mPAP is not sufficient to define pulmonary vascular disease as it can be due to an increase in cardiac output or pulmonary arterial wedge pressure. Thus, this 6th WSPH Task Force proposes to include pulmonary vascular resistance ≥3 Wood Units in the definition of all forms of pre-capillary PH associated with mPAP >20 mmHg. Prospective trials are required to determine whether this PH population might benefit from specific management.

Regarding clinical classification, the main Task Force changes were the inclusion in group 1 of a subgroup “pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) long-term responders to calcium channel blockers”, due to the specific prognostic and management of these patients, and a subgroup “PAH with overt features of venous/capillaries (pulmonary veno-occlusive disease/pulmonary capillary haemangiomatosis) involvement”, due to evidence suggesting a continuum between arterial, capillary and vein involvement in PAH.
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Kim Nick H. , Delcroix Marion , Jais Xavier , Madani Michael M. , Matsubara Hiromi , Mayer Eckhard , Ogo Takeshi , Tapson Victor F. , Ghofrani Hossein-Ardeschir , Jenkins David P.
Published: December 2018

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a complication of pulmonary embolism and a major cause of chronic PH leading to right heart failure and death. Lung ventilation/perfusion scintigraphy is the screening test of choice; a normal scan rules out CTEPH. In the case of an abnormal perfusion scan, a high-quality pulmonary angiogram is necessary to confirm and define the pulmonary vascular involvement and prior to making a treatment decision. PH is confirmed with right heart catheterisation, which is also necessary for treatment determination. In addition to chronic anticoagulation therapy, each patient with CTEPH should receive treatment assessment starting with evaluation for pulmonary endarterectomy, which is the guideline recommended treatment. For technically inoperable cases, PH-targeted medical therapy is recommended (currently riociguat based on the CHEST studies), and balloon pulmonary angioplasty should be considered at a centre experienced with this challenging but potentially effective and complementary intervention.
Factors targeting MED12 to drive tumorigenesis?
Authors: Bullerdiek Jörn , Rommel Birgit
Published: December 2018

Mediator Complex Subunit 12 (MED12) is part of the transcriptional preinitiation machinery. Mutations of its gene predominantly occur in two types of highly frequent benign tumors, uterine leiomyomas and fibroadenomas of the breast, where they apparently act as driver mutations. Nevertheless, their presence is not restricted to benign tumors having been found at considerable frequencies in uterine leiomyosarcomas, malignant phyllodes tumors, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia also. Most of the mutations are located within exon 2 of the gene but in rare cases the intron 1/exon 2 boundary or exon 1 are affected. As to their type, predominantly single nucleotide exchanges with a hotspot in one codon are found, but small deletions clustering around that hotspot also are not uncommon. These latter deletions are leaving the open reading frame intact. As to the types of mutations, so far no apparent differences between the tumor entities affected have emerged. Interestingly, this pattern with small deletions clustered around the hotspot of single nucleotide exchanges resembles that seen as a result of targeted gene editing. In contrast to other driver mutations the percentage of MED12-mutation positive tumors of independent clonal origin increases with the number of tumors per patient suggesting unknown etiological factors supporting site specific mutagenesis.  These factors may act by inducing simultaneous site-specific double strand breaks the erroneous repair of which may lead to corresponding mutations. As inducers of DNA damage and its repair such as foreign nucleic acids of the microbiome displaying sequence homology to the putative target site might play a role. Interestingly, a 16 base pair homology of the hotspot to a putative terminator base-paired hairpin sequence of a Staphylococcus aureus tRNA gene cluster has been noted which might form R-loop like structures with its target sequence thus inducing said changes.
sPop: Age-structured discrete-time population dynamics model in C, Python, and R
Authors: Erguler Kamil
Published: December 2018

This article describes the sPop packages implementing the deterministic and stochastic versions of an age-structured discrete-time population dynamics model. The packages enable mechanistic modelling of a population by monitoring the age and development stage of each individual. Survival and development are included as the main effectors and they progress at a user-defined pace: follow a fixed-rate, delay for a given time, or progress at an age-dependent manner. The model is implemented in C, Python, and R with a uniform design to ease usage and facilitate adoption. Early versions of the model were previously employed for investigating climate-driven population dynamics of the tiger mosquito and the chikungunya disease spread by this vector. The sPop packages presented in this article enable the use of the model in a range of applications extending from vector-borne diseases towards any age-structured population including plant and animal populations, microbial dynamics, host-pathogen interactions, infectious diseases, and other time-dependent epidemiological processes.
Recent advances in radiation therapy of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Venkatesulu Bhanu Prasad , Hsieh Cheng-En , Sanders Keith L , Krishnan Sunil
Published: December 2018

Pancreatic cancer has a dismal prognosis with an overall survival outcome of just 5% at five years. However, paralleling our improved understanding of the biology of pancreatic cancer, treatment paradigms have also continued to evolve with newer advances in surgical techniques, chemotherapeutic agents, radiation therapy (RT) techniques, and immunotherapy paradigms. RT dose, modality, fraction size, and sequencing are being evaluated actively, and the interplay between RT and immune effects has opened up newer avenues of research. In this review, we will emphasize recent advances in RT for pancreatic cancer, focusing on preoperative chemoradiation, RT dose escalation, sparing of the spleen to reduce lymphopenia, and combination of RT with immunotherapy.
MONO- AND BISEGMENTAL COMMUNITY-ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA IN YOUNG MEN (TOPICAL AND CLINICAL ASPECTS)
Authors: Добрых Вячеслав , Dobryh Vyacheslav , Алиев Абдула , Aliev Abdula , Мамровская Т , Mamrovskaya T , Дьяченко О , D'yachenko O , Тен Т , Ten T , Уварова И , Uvarova I , Чепель Т , Chepel' T , Морозов М , Morozov M , Бендиков Е , Bendikov E , Макаревич А , Makarevich A
Published: December 2018

Localization of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is its independent clinical sign which has not received proper coverage in the medical literature. The aim of the study is to compare the topical and clinical characteristics of unilateral lobar and segmental CAP in young men. Materials and methods: topical and clinical features of lobar, bi- and monosegmental CAP were studied in 6332 young military men. It was found out that monosegmental CAPs (mCAP) are more variable in their clinical and laboratory manifestations than their bisegamental and lobar variants not identified at the segmental level. The frequency of occurrence of mCAP of a specific localization directly correlates with the frequency of sputum expectoration, the severity of systemic and local neutrophilic inflammation. The 5th and 10th segments of both lungs are the zones of the most frequent localization of mCAP associated with a relatively high severity of systemic neutrophil reaction, and the 6th and 8th segments are the zones of a relatively longer course of mCAP and the predominance of signs of local inflammation. In bisegmental CAP, there is a general trend of a more pronounced systemic inflammatory response to the criterion of blood neutrophils level than in mCAP. The revealed regularities can contribute to a more accurate prediction of the mCAP course in the population of young men.
ASSESSMENT OF SEASONAL CHANGES IN ENERGY SUPPLY OF IMMUNOCOMPETENT BLOOD CELLS IN PREGNANT WOMEN FROM DIFFERENT AREAS OF THE AMUR REGION
Authors: Супрун Стефания , Suprun Stefaniya , Кудерова Наталья , Kuderova Natalia , Морозова Ольга , Morozova Olga , Супрун Евгений , Suprun Evgeniy , Лебедько Ольга , Lebedko Olga , Галянт О , Galyant O
Published: December 2018

In order to study the seasonal effects on the energy supply of immunocompetent blood cells (IBC) in pregnant women living in different conditions of the Amur region, and to substantiate additional methods of diagnosis, prevention and treatment of the identified disorders, a study of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) by flow laser cytometry was conducted in 198 subjects. The data of different types of IBC (lymphocytes, granulocytes and monocytes) at early gestation of women living in urban (Khabarovsk) and rural (Jewish Autonomous region) areas of the Amur region were analyzed. Eight (8) groups were formed according to seasons: winter, spring, summer and autumn. The results of a comprehensive survey indicate some features of intracellular bioenergy processes of IBC depending on the environmental conditions in different seasonal periods. Conditions of women from urban areas are characterized by a significant increase in lymphocytes with reduced MMP which was more pronounced in winter, and by a tendency to increase monocytes in spring-and-summer season. The state of low energy supply of IBC in rural residents differs significantly by means of granulocytes in all presented periods of a year, combinations of various types of IBC in winters and tendency to simultaneous increase in the number of all IBCs with the reduced MMP. The number of IBC with optimal MMP content in urban environment was observed in pregnant women in autumn (23.3%), in rural areas in summer (57.1%). Thus, the study has shown the need to expand the range of diagnostic methods for the formation of pregnancy complications risk groups. Determination of the substrate-energy value in the cells of the immune system is an indication for the individual selection of complex vitamin and mineral medications taking into account seasonal changes. MMP studies allow to monitor the dynamics and evaluate the effectiveness of preventive and therapeutic prescriptions.
PROCESSES OF LIPID PEROXIDATION AND SYSTEM OF ANTIOXIDANT PROTECTION IN THE BLOOD OF THE UMBILICAL CORD OF INFANTS AT CYTOMEGALOVIRUS INFECTION IN PREGNANCY
Authors: Дорофиенко Николай , Dorofienko Nikolay
Published: December 2018

The aim of the work is to study the activity of lipoperoxidation processes and antioxidant protection system in the umbilical cord blood of newborns from CMV-seropositive women with exacerbation of infection in the third trimester of pregnancy. Lipid peroxidation activity and antioxidant status in 30 newborns from CMV-seropositive women with exacerbation of infection in the third trimester of pregnancy and in 25 from CMV-seronegative women were studied. Erythrocytes were used to determine the products of oxidative modification of lipids; antioxidant status was evaluated in the blood plasma of the umbilical vein. The content of TBK-active products was determined by fluorometric method, lysophosphatidylcholine by thin-layer chromatography, arachidonic acid by gas-liquid chromatography. Antioxidant status was assessed by α-tocopherol content and superoxide dismutase activity. Registration of optical densities and fluorescence was carried out using a spectrofluorometer. The study found an increase in the content of red blood cells of the umbilical cord of newborns from CMV-seropositive women with an exacerbation of infection in the third trimester of pregnancy of TAC-active products in 2.1 times (p˂0.001), of lysophosphatidylcholine in 1.9 times (p˂0.001) and of arachidonic acid in 1.5 times (p˂0.001). The antioxidant status of umbilical cord blood was characterized by 1.5 times decrease in α-tocopherol (p<0.01) and 1.3 times decrease in superoxide dismutase activity (p˂0.001) compared with similar indices in the group of newborns from CMV-seronegative women. The results of the study show that the exacerbation of cytomegalovirus infection in the third trimester of pregnancy is accompanied by the development of oxidative stress and tension in the system of antioxidant protection in the blood of the umbilical cord of newborns due to increased consumption of α-tocopherol and suppression of superoxide dismutase activity.
La elección del derecho aplicable en el derecho internacional privado colombiano
Authors: Ochoa Jiménez María Julia , Zapata Flórez Jonathan , Carrillo Gamboa Paola
Published: December 2018

Actualmente, en Colombia, como en otros países, es cada vez más común encontrar situaciones jurídicas privadas internacionales, es decir, situaciones a las cuales son aplicables normas del derecho internacional privado, incluidas las normas de conflictos de leyes. El presente artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación cualitativa a través de la cual se identificaron y evaluaron normas de conflicto de leyes del ordenamiento jurídico colombiano, considerando algunas formas de flexibilización presentes en codificaciones no directamente aplicables en Colombia. Teniendo como centro de atención la posibilidad para las partes de elegir la ley aplicable a una situación jurídica privada internacional en la que participen, se halló que en Colombia las normas de conflicto de leyes no responden adecuadamente a las exigencias de las realidades que emergen de hechos y negocios jurídicos contemporáneos, por lo que se exhorta a realizar una revisión legal que bride mayor seguridad jurídica.
Fuentes del Derecho Internacional Privado en el Sistema Jurídico Argentino: jerarquía normativa y su interpretación jurisprudencial.
Authors: Porcelli Adriana Margarita
Published: December 2018

El presente documento analiza, dentro de las fuentes del Derecho Internacional Privado Argentino, la jerarquía normativa adoptada por la Constitución y por el nuevo Código Civil y Comercial vigente desde agosto de 2015 y la influencia del Derecho Internacional de los Derechos Humanos. La metodología utilizada se basó en la comparación de ambas normativas a fin de determinar coincidencias y en la interpretación jurisprudencial realizada por el máximo tribunal argentino, su evolución y actuales tendencias. Este trabajo se compone de tres partes: la primera identifica los principios fundamentales del Código Civil y Comercial que impactan en Derecho Internacional Privado Argentino, la segunda, contiene una breve descripción de los diversos sistemas jurídicos y en la tercera se analizan los artículos que abordan la temática y su interpretación jurisprudencial hasta la fecha. Finalmente se concluye en la adopción de un nuevo Derecho Internacional Privado Argentino postmoderno, pro homine, que indica a los jueces argentinos que, al resolver una relación jurídica iusprivatista internacional, vale decir aquella que pone en contacto varios ordenamiento jurídicos nacionales, deben dictar sentencia teniendo en cuenta los derechos humanos.
Adoecimento de trabalhadores de enfermagem no contexto hospitalar
Authors: Baptista Ana Terra Porciúncula , Souza Norma Valéria Dantas de Oliveira , Gallasch Cristiane Helena , Varella Thereza Christina Mó Y Mó Loureiro , Noronha Isabela Da Rosa , Noronha Isabele Da Rosa
Published: December 2018

Objetivo: determinar as questões de saúde que levam os profissionais de enfermagem a licenciarem-se do trabalho por mais de 15 dias ou sofrerem readaptação funcional. Métodos: pesquisa documental, retrospectiva com abordagem quantitativa. Foram analisados 886 registros de afastamentos da equipe de enfermagem de um hospital universitário. Os dados foram apresentados por meio de estatística descritiva. Resultados: os afastamentos dos trabalhadores foram atribuídos, principalmente, transtornos mentais e comportamentais (22,6%), seguidos das doenças do sistema osteomuscular e do tecido conjuntivo (24,4%) dos casos. Em relação aos motivos que levaram os profissionais a sofrerem readaptação funcional, captou-se como principal causa as doenças osteomusculares (56,3%), registrando-se em seguida os transtornos mentais (18,8%). Conclusão: os trabalhadores possuem elevado índice de adoecimento por doenças osteomusculares, no entanto, preocupa o crescente adoecimento mental. Portanto, é necessário intensificar medidas protetoras para prevenção do adoecimento e melhoradas condições laborais.
„Að þreifa sig áfram í myrkrinu“: Ríkjandi stefnur og straumar um ungt flóttafólk í íslensku grunn- og framhaldsskólakerfi
Authors: Harðardóttir Eva , Magnúsdóttir Berglind Rós
Published: December 2018

Þrátt fyrir að Ísland taki ekki á móti flóttafólki í jafn ríkum mæli og aðrar Evrópuþjóðir fer ungu flóttafólki hérlendis engu að síður fjölgandi í kjölfar alþjóðlegra og þvingaðra fólksflutninga. Á sama tíma má greina átakameiri umræðu um gildi fjölmenningar í aðlögun innflytjenda. Rannsóknir er varða nemendur af erlendum uppruna og skóla án aðgreiningar hérlendis hafa þó ekki beinst sérstaklega að stöðu ungs flóttafólks. Markmið þessarar rannsóknar er að kanna hvers konar menntastefna er við lýði um ungt flóttafólk á Íslandi með tilliti til menntunar og félagslegrar aðlögunar. Í anda gagnrýnna menntastefnufræða voru greind tvö opinber stefnuskjöl er snúa að móttöku og þjónustu við flóttafólk og fimm rýnihópaviðtöl við fjórtán grunn- og framhaldsskólakennara. Niðurstöður benda til að stefna um ungt flóttafólk sé takmörkuð þar sem hún beinist aðallega að jöfnum rétti einstaklinga til aðgengis frekar en að leggja áherslu á gildi og inntak menntunar. Þá endurspeglar stefnan orðræðu nýsamlögunar (e. neo-assimilation) þar sem áhersla er lögð á ábyrgð einstaklinga á eigin námi og framtíðarmöguleikum í gegnum val, virkni og íslenskufærni fremur en samþætta og samfélagslega nálgun. Orðræða kennara bar vott um aukið álag í starfi þar sem þeir „þreifa sig áfram í myrkrinu“ og fá lítinn kerfislægan stuðning. Skortur á slíkum stuðningi sem og heildarstefnumótun gerði þeim oft erfitt um vik að taka siðferðislega faglegar ákvarðanir og ögra viðteknum og stöðluðum hugmyndum um margbreytileika og menntun.
A propósito de Ceuta: algumas questões de geografia e epigrafia antigas
Authors: Mantas Vasco
Published: December 2018

A investigação sobre o passado do Estreito de Gibraltar e da cidade de Ceuta progrediu notavelmente nas últimas duas décadas, justificando que se retome a análise de algumas questões ainda não resolvidas, ou de solução precária, relacionadas com a Antiguidade. Neste artigo propomos uma releitura da Ora Maritima de Avieno, na parte referente à localização do Monte Zéfiro, e uma nova interpretação do significado de um fragmento de inscrição achado em Ceuta no final do século passado. Em ambos os casos foram tidos em conta factores suficientes para sustentar as hipóteses que sugerimos, pretendendo assim estimular o debate sobre o passado de Ceuta, pouco cuidado em Portugal.
Análisis del mundo asociativo «en primera persona» en salud mental en Cataluña
Authors: Cazorla Palomo Josep
Published: December 2018

Las respuestas a las problemáticas relacionadas con el ámbito de la salud mental se han centrado en la creencia de que la diversidad era un hecho individual de cada persona, responsabilizando al individuo de su voluntad de cambio, olvidando las condicionantes sociales de este hecho. En contraposición, en Europa se han creado diferentes movimientos fomentados por personas usuarias y ex-usuarias de los servicios de la red de salud mental que reivindican una serie de derechos, de soluciones y de propuestas alternativas a las institucionales. El presente artículo se basa en la primera parte de la tesis doctoral, que se centra en el estudio del papel de Trabajo Social como facilitador de los procesos de empoderamiento de las personas diagnosticadas con un trastorno mental. La intención es la aproximación al mundo asociativo «en primera persona» y el papel que ha obtenido en el momento actual en Cataluña. Para ello se cuenta con la opinión de nueve personas vinculadas a las nueve asociaciones que forman la Federació Veus. La metodología escogida es de carácter cualitativo, siendo dos las herramientas para la recogida de datos: la observación y la entrevista en profundidad. El análisis de los datos extraídos permitió concluir que las redes relacionales y el trabajo comunitario ayudan en la mejora de la calidad de vida de las personas usuarias de las asociaciones «en primera persona», mediante la paliación de los estigmas y las desigualdades que se pueden generar en torno a un diagnóstico.