bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of variation in interpretation of the La Trobe radiographic foot atlas on the prevalence of foot osteoarthritis in older women: the Chingford general population cohort
Authors: McQueen Peter , Gates Lucy , Marshall Michelle , Doherty Michael , Arden Nigel , Bowen Catherine
Published: December 2017

Background

The prevalence of foot osteoarthritis (OA) is much less understood than hip, knee and hand OA. The foot is anatomically complex and different researchers have investigated different joints with lack of methodological standardisation across studies. The La Trobe Foot Atlas (LFA) is the first to address these issues in providing quantitative assessment of radiographic foot OA, but has not been tested externally. The aim of this study was to evaluate three different interpretive approaches to using the LFA for grading OA when scoring is difficult due to indistinct views of interosseous space and joint contour.

Methods

Foot radiographs of all remaining participants (n = 218) assessed in the Chingford Women Study 23 year visit (mean (SD) for age: 75.5 years (5.1)) were scored using the LFA defined protocol (Technique 1). Two revised scoring strategies were applied to the radiographs in addition to the standard LFA analyses. Technique 2 categorised joints that were difficult to grade as ‘missing’. Technique 3 included joints that were difficult to grade as an over estimated score. Radiographic OA prevalence was defined for the foot both collectively and separately for individual joints.

Results

When radiographs were scored using the LFA (Technique 1), radiographic foot OA was present in 89.9%. For Technique 2 the presence of radiographic foot OA was 83.5% and for Technique 3 it was 97.2%. At the individual joint level, using Technique 1, the presence of radiographic foot OA was higher with a wider range (18.3–74.3%) than Technique 2 (17.9–46.3%) and lower with a wider range (18.3–74.3%) than Technique 3 (39.9–79.4%).

Conclusion

The three different ways of interpreting the LFA scoring system when grading of individual joints is technically difficult and result in very different estimates of foot OA prevalence at both the individual joint and global foot level. Agreement on the best strategy is required to improve comparability between studies.
Changes in salivary oxytocin after inhalation of clary sage essential oil scent in term-pregnant women: a feasibility pilot study
Authors: Tadokoro Yuriko , Horiuchi Shigeko , Takahata Kaori , Shuo Takuya , Sawano Erika , Shinohara Kazuyuki
Published: December 2017

Objectives

This pilot study using a quasi-experimental design was conducted to evaluate the feasibility (i.e., limited efficacy, practicality, and acceptability) of our intervention protocol involving inhalation of the scent of clary sage essential oil by pregnant women and measurement of their preinhalation and postinhalation oxytocin levels.

Results

Participants were women of singleton pregnancies between 38 and 40 gestation weeks (N = 11). The experiment group (n = 5) inhaled the scent of clary sage essential oil diluted 50-fold with 10 mL of odorless propylene glycol for 20 min. Regarding limited efficacy, the oxytocin level 15 min postinhalation increased in 3 women and was unmeasurable in 2. The control group (n = 6) inhaled similarly without the 50-fold dilution of clary sage essential oil. Their oxytocin level increased in 2 women, decreased in 2, and was unmeasurable in 2. Uterine contraction was not observed in both groups. Regarding practicality, 3 of the 11 women could not collect sufficient saliva. The cortisol level decreased in both groups postinhalation. The protocol had no negative effects. Regarding acceptability, burden of the protocol was not observed.

Trial registration The Clinical Trials Registry of University Hospital Medical Information Network in Japan—UMIN000017830. Registered:  June 8, 2015
Mapping chromite deposits with audio magnetotellurics in the Luobusa ophiolite of southern Tibet
Authors: He Lanfang , Chen Ling , Dorji  , He Zhanxiang , Wang Xuben , Xiao Bayi , Xu Ligui , Zhao Xuefang , Xi Xiaolu , Yao Hongchun , Chen Rujun
Published: December 2017

The exploration of podiform chromites in the Indus Yarlong Zangbo suture zone of southern Tibet has proved difficult because most known deposits pinch out and then reappear in the same direction. Several ground-based geophysical approaches such as gravity, magnetic, and controlled-source audio-frequency magnetotelluric (CSAMT) methods have been applied to explore for these chromite deposits but have mostly failed to delineate prospective areas. We have evaluated a successful podiform chromite exploration case history that is based on AMT. More than 8000 AMT stations were used in this study within a [Formula: see text] area of the ophiolite belt. Line separations were 80 or 40 m, and the station separation was 20 m. We implemented Bostick conversion and nonlinear conjugate gradient inversions for data interpretation, whereas 2D resistivity sections and 3D resistivity imaging were used to elucidate the inner structure and distribution of rock faces within the Luobusa ophiolite. Results from rock physics and drilling further indicate that resistivity-anomaly domains from these AMT results are correlated with rock faces in terms of fresh harzburgite, altered harzburgite and dunite, and they can thus be connected to concealed deposits. Therefore, we have developed three resistivity-anomaly models for chromite exploration, and we delineated several prospective regions containing exploitable deposits within the Luobusa ophiolite. Seven of the nine verified boreholes discussed in this paper intersected with chromite deposits; one comprises the largest and highest grade chromite deposit in China to date. Our AMT results provide the impetus for future chromite exploration in Tibet and enable a refined understanding of the structure and distribution of rock faces within the Luobusa ophiolite.
Carcinosarcomas and Related Cancers: Tumors Caught in the Act of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Pang Angela , Carbini Mariana , Moreira Andre L. , Maki Robert G.
Published: December 2017

In this review, we outline the biology and management of patients with carcinosarcomas and related malignancies, which are often included under the broader concept of sarcomatoid carcinomas. Carcinosarcomas are unusual tumors that are commonly gynecologic in origin, where they are referred to as malignant mixed Müllerian tumors, but may appear in any anatomic site. Although a variety of hypotheses have been presented as to the biphasic nature of these tumors, carcinosarcomas seem to represent the best example in human cancers of the concept of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), in which the two parts of the tumor are genomically related to one another, as opposed to the mesenchymal component that represents a second neoplasm or (benign) reactive process. In general, patients with carcinosarcomas fare worse than patients with carcinomas of the same anatomic site. Treatment paradigms for carcinosarcomas generally follow those of carcinomas of the same organ site, except where clinical trials provide more specific options. Agents that block or reverse EMT are worth examination in patients with carcinosarcoma and arguably may be even more effective in carcinomas, given evidence of dependence on EMT to generate successful metastases. Information about EMT may also inform other phase transitions in cancer, such as those between prostate or lung carcinoma and more aggressive tumors with neuroendocrine differentiation.
Osteosarcoma, Chondrosarcoma, and Chordoma
Authors: Whelan Jeremy S. , Davis Lara E.
Published: December 2017

Osteosarcoma (OS), chondrosarcoma, and chordoma are characterized by multiple challenges to the investigator, clinician, and patient. One consequence of their rarity among sarcomas, as well as their biologic and clinical heterogeneity, is that management guidelines are inadequate to inform the range of individual patient-treatment decisions from diagnosis, approaches to surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, treatment of recurrence, palliative care, and quality of survivorship. Of high-grade sarcomas, OSs are among the most curable, with more than two-thirds of patients with localized disease likely to achieve long-term survival. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy comprising cisplatin, doxorubicin, and methotrexate with intercalated surgery is the standard of care for resectable OS in those younger than 40 years. Outcomes for OS presenting with unresectable metastases or recurrent disease, or in those older than 40 years are generally poor. Overall results have improved little for all patients with OS, and new treatments are needed. Surgical resection remains the cornerstone of management for chondrosarcoma and chordoma. However, the application of new biologic insights to therapeutic development indicates that improved treatments may soon be routine for patients with chondrosarcoma and chordoma for whom surgery alone is inadequate. For all these uncommon diseases, patients should be offered specialist expert care delivered by experienced multidisciplinary teams in high-volume centers.
Immigration in American Economic History
Authors: Abramitzky Ran , Boustan Leah
Published: December 2017

The United States has long been perceived as a land of opportunity for immigrants. Yet, both in the past and today, US natives have expressed concern that immigrants fail to integrate into US society and lower wages for existing workers. This paper reviews the literatures on historical and contemporary migrant flows, yielding new insights on migrant selection, assimilation of immigrants into US economy and society, and the effect of immigration on the labor market. (JEL J11, J15, J24, J61, N31, N32)
Ideology, Economic Policy, and Economic History: Cohen and DeLong's Concrete Economics
Authors: Field Alexander J.
Published: December 2017

Stephen S. Cohen and J. Bradford DeLong view US economic policy extending up to 1980 as pragmatically fostering growth. This they interpret as the Hamiltonian tradition, and their intent is to rescue policy debate from the data- and logic-free quagmire into which they believe it has fallen. Following an introduction, section 2 of this essay describes methods and evidence that permit statements about the historical influence of ideological thinking more empirically grounded than those essayed by the authors. Section 3 examines specific aspects of their narrative. Section 4 considers what we mean by ideological thinking, and why it might be deleterious. (JEL D72, E61, L52, N41, N42)
Effective Control System of the Enterprise: Statement of Design Problem
Authors: Гришина Светлана , Grishina Svetlana
Published: December 2017

The article shows that by designing an organization control system, it is most natural to use a systemic complex approach and well-developed methods of system theory. By generalization of known methods, it is concluded that in the formulation of optimization problems, difficulties arise associated with the complete formalization of the design process in the presence of conflicting requirements for the system, questions of design optimization, and the technical implementation of the resulting solution. It is proposed to build not an optimal, but technically acceptable system, such an approach is realized by setting the problem on the basis of the complexity principle.
Environmental impact assessment at a Colombian Caribbean wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Severiche-Sierra C.A. , Valest-Bustillo M.K. , Jaimes-Morales J. , Bedoya-Marrugo E.A. , Mancera-De La Cruz R.
Published: December 2017

In this paper it is identified and described the environmental aspects and impacts in
a treatment plant wastewater. The inputs of raw materials, fuel, electricity and water
are taken into account; similarly, the outputs as emissions, noise, discharges and
waste, looking comply with environmental legislation and resource management.
The most relevant results of the work leading to the qualification of environmental
impacts studied for low and middle levels of significance area. The treatment plant
wastewater meets its environmental management system, with appropriate controls
on environmental impacts both normal and abnormal conditions. Higher level of
significance was found in the areas of water pretreatment, but this has an
environmental regulation and compliance under national law.
Application of non-linear control to a magnetic levitation system
Authors: Acosta Rodriguez Rafael Antonio , Salcedo Parra Octavio Jose , Tarazona Bermudez Giovanny Mauricio
Published: December 2017

This paper evaluates the nonlinear control applied to a magnetic levitating plant, it
is explained in detail the nonlinear model of the plant, the state variables,
perturbation vector. A state feedback control was triggered by applying a state
observer. Finally it was modeled under the control law found in the presence of
disturbances.
Immunohistochemical Localization of Fibrinogen C Domain Containing 1 on Epithelial and Mucosal Surfaces in Human Tissues
Authors: von Huth Sebastian , Moeller Jesper B. , Schlosser Anders , Marcussen Niels , Nielsen Ole , Nielsen Vicki , Sorensen Grith L. , Holmskov Uffe
Published: December 2017

Fibrinogen C domain containing 1 (FIBCD1) is a transmembrane receptor that binds chitin and other acetylated compounds with high affinity. FIBCD1 has previously been shown to be present in the epithelium of the gastrointestinal tract. In the present study, we performed a detailed analysis of normally structured human tissues for the expression of FIBCD1 by quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. We find that FIBCD1 is expressed in epithelial cells derived from all three germ layers. Endodermal-derived epithelial cells throughout the gastrointestinal tract and the respiratory system showed high expression of FIBCD1 and also mesodermal-derived cells in the genitourinary system and ectodermal-derived epidermis and sebaceous glands cells expressed FIBCD1. In some columnar epithelial cells, for example, in the salivary gland and gall bladder, the FIBCD1 expression was clearly polarized with strong apical reaction, while other columnar cells, for example, in small and large intestine and in bronchi, the staining was equally strong apically and basolaterally. In keratinocytes in skin, tongue, and oral cavity, the FIBCD1 staining was granular. This expression pattern together with the known binding properties supports that FIBCD1 plays a role in innate immunity in the skin and at mucosal surfaces.
Blood Sample Transportation by Pneumatic Transportation Systems: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Nybo Mads , Lund Merete E , Titlestad Kjell , Maegaard Christian U
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Pneumatic transportation systems (PTSs) are increasingly used for transportation of blood samples to the core laboratory. Many studies have investigated the impact of these systems on different types of analyses, but to elucidate whether PTSs in general are safe for transportation of blood samples, existing literature on the subject was systematically assessed.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and metaanalyses (PRISMA) Statement guidelines to gather studies investigating the impact of PTS on analyses in blood samples. Studies were extracted from PubMed and Embase. The search period ended November 2016.

RESULTS

A total of 39 studies were retrieved. Of these, only 12 studies were conducted on inpatients, mainly intensive care unit patients. Blood gases, hematology, and clinical chemistry were well investigated, whereas coagulation, rotational thromboelastometry, and platelet function in acutely ill patients were addressed by only 1 study each. Only a few parameters were affected in a clinically significant way (clotting time parameter in extrinsic system thromboelastometry, pO2 in blood gas, multiplate analysis, and the hemolysis index).

CONCLUSIONS

Owing to their high degree of heterogeneity, the retrieved studies were unable to supply evidence for the safety of using PTSs for blood sample transportation. In consequence, laboratories need to measure and document the actual acceleration forces in their existing PTS, instituting quality target thresholds for these measurements such as acceleration vector sums. Computer modeling might be applied to the evaluation of future PTS installations. With the increasing use of PTS, a harmonized, international recommendation on this topic is warranted.
Barriers and critical success factors applying cleaner production: a survey with Brazilian specialists
Authors: Canal Vieira Leticia , Gonçalves Amaral Fernando
Published: December 2017

Cleaner Production is an initiative seeking for achieving sustainable development goals. Yet, it has not been satisfactorily disseminated in Brazilian industries. The purpose of this article was identifying the barriers and critical success factors, considering both the external and internal Brazilian environment. A survey was conducted among the professionals involved with the subject of Cleaner Production in Brazil, reaching 185 respondents. Data was analyzed using the Principal Component Analysis. The results indicated that the main success factors concern the organization characteristics, and are related to culture, strategic planning and resources for the implementation of Cleaner Production. In the case of barriers, it can be highlighted the inadequate vision and culture of organizations, followed by the lack of support from the external environment. Contrary to other studies, economic aspects did not seem to be crucial in the opinion of respondents. When measures that can be taken for a more effective dissemination of CP in Brazil are approached, it can be perceived that a repositioning of the external environment (government, other companies, academia, and consumers) is necessary, acting as a strong incentive and support for applying CP.
Proposed system for analyzing the location of preschools: a Brazilian case study
Authors: Endler Kellen Dayelle , Scarpin Cassius Tadeu , Arns Steiner Maria Teresinha
Published: December 2017

Early infant education and care have become priority issues in Brazil. The present article evaluates the spatial distribution of public preschools in the municipality of Curitiba, in Paraná State, Brazil. This problem is an important aspect of school administration and can relieve problems of inequality in public education, such as accessibility and availability of places. The main contribution of this article is the system it proposes for rationalizing decision-making in the education system in question. This system presents four complementary analyses, although they are independent of one another: (i) analysis of the current location of facilities; (ii) analysis of the proposed location; (iii) analysis for expanding the capacity of existing units; and (iv) analysis of the opening of new facilities. The models were generated using VB.NET© modeling language and were solved by the CPLEX© solver. The results showed that, in general, there is a need for immediate planning to increase the number of places available in public infant education in Curitiba, which is also a requirement for compliance with the goals of the National Education Plan (NEP) that is now in force nationwide.
Deterministic automata for extended regular expressions
Authors: Syzdykov Mirzakhmet
Published: December 2017

In this work we present the algorithms to produce deterministic finite automaton (DFA) for extended operators in regular expressions like intersection, subtraction and complement. The method like “overriding” of the source NFA(NFA not defined) with subset construction rules is used. The past work described only the algorithm for AND-operator (or intersection of regular languages); in this paper the construction for the MINUS-operator (and complement) is shown.
Choices and Consequences: The Role of Players in The Walking Dead: A Telltale Game Series
Authors: Genovesi Matteo
Published: December 2017

One of the most important features in a transmedia structure, as Max Giovagnoli argues in his book Transmedia: Storytelling e Comunicazione [Transmedia: Storytelling and Communication], is the development of the user’s decision-making power, defined by the author as “choice excitement.” In this, every choice of the user should have a consequence in the fictional universe of a specific franchise. Consequently, a narrative universe that wants to emphasize choice excitement and the active role of people can focus on video games, where the interactive approach is prominent. This essay will discuss a specific video game, based on the famous franchise of The Walking Dead. This brand, which appears in comic books, novels, TV series, Web episodes and video games, is analysable not only as an exemplary case of transmedia storytelling, where every ramification of the franchise published in different media is both autonomous and synergistic with the others, but also by focusing on the choice excitement of users in the first season of the video game The Walking Dead: A Telltale Game Series.
On the probability of existence of substrings with the same structure in a random sequence
Authors: Mikhailov Vladimir G.
Published: December 2017

An asymptotic expression (with an explicit estimate of the remainder term) is obtained for the probability that in a finite sequence of polynomial trials controlled by a Markov chain there exist substrings having the same structure.
Convergence of the sequence of the Pearson statistics values to the normalized square of the Bessel process
Authors: Zubkov Andrey M. , Savelov Maksim P.
Published: December 2017

It is shown that, with suitable time change, the finite-dimensional distributions of the process formed by successive values of the Pearson statistics for an expanding sample converge to finite-dimensional distributions of the stationary random process, namely, the normalized square of the Bessel process. The results obtained earlier on the limit joint distributions of the Pearson statistics are used to derive explicit formulas for the density of joint distributions of the Bessel process.
Faetar null subjects: a variationist study of a heritage language in contact
Authors: Nagy Naomi , Iannozzi Michael , Heap David
Published: December 2017

Faetar is an under-documented variety descended from Francoprovençal and spoken in two isolated Apulian villages in southern Italy as well as in the emigrant diaspora, especially in the Greater Toronto Area. Speakers use two series of subject pronouns (strong and weak pronouns), producing sentences with zero, one or two overt subject pronouns. The status of the overt forms as subject pronouns, emphatic pronouns, left- or right-dislocated pronouns, clitics, or affixes is not clear. Contrary to the predictions of the Null Subject Parameter hypothesis (Perlmutter 1971, Deep and surface structure constraints in syntax. New York: Holt, Rhinehart and Winston; Chomsky 1981, Lectures on government and binding. Dordrecht: Foris), these grammars have subject pronoun paradigms that are variable and conditioned by a number of linguistic factors (including person, tense, information status and subject type). This article delineates which aspects vary diachronically, spatially, or between individuals – a necessary prerequisite to constructing a theoretical model that accounts for this variation. By comparing the patterns of use in France, Italy, and Toronto, and using sources that span nearly a century, we see that despite the very small size of its speech community, Faetar shows little sign of accommodating to English’s virtually categorical presence of subject pronouns, nor to Italian’s high null subject (hereafter Ø-subject) rate, nor to the conditioning effects found in those languages.
La restructuration du système des clitiques sujets de la troisième personne en francoprovençal valaisan contemporain
Authors: Kristol Andres
Published: December 2017

Les parlers francoprovençaux valaisans présentent un système des clitiques sujets de la 3epersonne du singulier relativement atypique au sein des langues romanes. Comme le français, le romanche et certains parlers nord-occitans, gallo-italiens et toscans, ils ont développé un clitique sujet – celui-ci est resté d’emploi facultatif dans les parlers étudiés ici –, mais ont abandonné l’opposition entre le masculin et le féminin héritée des démonstratifs latins dont les formes actuelles sont issues. Parallèlement, ils ont développé, en partie du moins, de nouvelles distinctions morphologiques: la forme du clitique sujet est différente devant verbe à initiale vocalique ou consonantique. Les matériaux de l’Atlas linguistique audiovisuel du francoprovençal valaisan ALAVALpermettent d’étudier et – on l’espère du moins – de comprendre le déroulement de ces évolutions grâce à la synchronie des microsystèmes qui coexistent dans l’espace géolinguistique valaisan.
An inverse problem in corrosion detection: Stability estimates
Authors: Choulli Mourad
Published: December 2017

In this note we correct the proof of [2, Theorem 2.1].
Helicobacter pylori treatment results in Slovenia in the period 2013-2015 as a part of European Registry on Helicobacter pylori Management
Authors: Tepes Bojan , Kastelic Marko , Vujasinovic Miroslav , Lampic Polona , Seruga Maja , Jurecic Natasa Brglez , Nyssen Olga P. , Donday Maria G. , O’Morain Colm , Megraud Francis , McNicholl Adrian G , Gisbert Javier P.
Published: December 2017

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is the most common chronic bacterial infection in the world affecting over 50% of the world’s population. H. pylori is a grade I carcinogen, responsible for the development of 89 % of noncardia gastric cancers. In the present study we analyzed the data for H. pylori eradication treatments in Slovenia.

Patients and methods

Slovenia is a part of the European Registry on Helicobacter pylori Management from the beginning. In seven medical institutions data for H. pylori eradication treatments was collected for 1774 patients from April 16th 2013 to May 15th 2016. For further modified intention to treat (mITT) analysis 1519 patients were eligible and for per protocol (PP) analysis 1346 patients.

Results

Patients’ dropout was 11.4%. Eradication rate for 7 day triple therapy with proton pump inhibitor (PPI) + Clarithromycin (C) + Amoxicillin (A) was 88.7% PP and 72.0% mITT; for PPI + C + Metronidazole (M) 85.2% PP and 84.4% mITT. Second line 14 day therapy PPI + A + Levofloxacin had 92.3% eradication rate PP and 87.1% mITT. Ten to fourteen day Bismuth quadruple therapy was the therapy in difficult to treat patients. At the end all patients that adhered to prescribed regimens were cured of their H. pylori infection.

Conclusions

High dropout rate deserves further analysis. Slovenia is still a country with < 15% H. pylori resistance to clarithromycin, triple therapy with PPI plus two antibiotics reaches PP eradication rate > 85%, but mITT eradication rates are suboptimal.
Nutrition of patients with severe neurologic impairment
Authors: Orel Anija , Homan Matjaz , Blagus Rok , Benedik Evgen , Orel Rok , Fidler Mis Natasa
Published: December 2017

Background

Commercial enteral formulas are generally recommended for gastrostomy feeding in patients with severe neurologic impairment. However, pureed food diets are still widely used and even gaining popularity among certain groups. We tried to compare the effectiveness of gastrostomy feeding for treatment of severe malnutrition with either enteral formulas or pureed feeds.

Patients and methods

A 6-month nutritional intervention was made with 37 malnourished children, adolescents and young adults (2–26 years old) with severe neurologic impairment (Gross Motor Function Classification system [GMFCS] grade V). The individual needs were calculated. Participants were fed by gastrostomy with either enteral formulas (n = 17) or pureed food (n = 20). Measurements to assess nutritional status were made at the beginning and at the end of intervention.

Results

The Z scores for weight-for-age and for the body-mass index increased more in enteral formula than in pureed food group (2.07 vs. 0.70, p = 0.0012; and 3.75 vs. 0.63, p = 0.0014, respectively). Fat mass index increased more in enteral formula than in pureed food group (1.12 kg/m2
vs. 0.38 kg/m2; p = 0.0012). Patients in the enteral formula group showed increase in lean body mass expressed as fat-free mass index (0.70 kg/m2), while those in pureed food group did not (-0.06 kg/m2) (p = 0.0487).

Conclusions

The results suggest that even professionally planned pureed food diet is less effective than commercial enteral formula for nutritional rehabilitation of malnourished patients with severe neurologic impairment. However, larger and if possible randomised clinical studies should be made to confirm our findings.
Evaluation of biological variations in glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels in healthy individuals
Authors: Coskun Cihan , Inal Berrin Bercik , Emre Humeyra Ozturk , Baz Sehide , Gumus Alper , Sonmez Derya , Orhan Bagnu , Duz Muhammed Emin , Serin Erdinc , Koldas Macit
Published: December 2017

Objective

In this study, we firstly aimed to determine components of biological variations (BVCs) in levels of glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in detail based on guidance from relevant organizations and experts. We also investigated whether reference intervals for both analytes were useful for evaluations, particularly consecutive test results.

Methods

The study group consisted of 36 healthy volunteers. Samples were collected from each individual 4 times every 2 weeks for 45 days. All samples were assayed in duplicate within a single run. Finally, we estimated BVCs and the analytical performance specifications of both analytes.

Results

Our results were fairly compatible with current biological variations (BVs) in both analytes reported in a database. It was calculated as within biological variation (CVI)=4.2% and between-subject variation (CVG)=5.3% for glucose while calculating as CVI=1.7% and CVG=4.5% for HbA1c. According to these results, the index of individuality (II) of glucose was higher than 0.6 while HbA1c’s II was lower than this value.

Conclusion

We thought that guidelines from relevant international organizations should be followed to standardize the study design and to appropriately calculate BVCs for any analyte in BV studies. Finally, reference change value should be used to evaluate meaningful differences in HbA1c levels instead of reference interval.
The role of hydrogen bonds in order-disorder transition of a new incommensurate low temperature phase β-[Zn-(C7H4NO4)2]·3H2O
Authors: Tabatabaee Masoumeh , Poupon Morgane , Eigner Václav , Vaněk Přemysl , Dušek Michal
Published: December 2017

The room temperature structure with P21/c symmetry of the zinc(II) complex of pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acid was published by Okabe and Oya (N. Okabe, N. Oya, Copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes of pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acid. Acta Crystallogr. C. 2000, 56, 305). Here we report crystal structure of the low temperature phase β-[Zn(pydcH)2]·3H2O, pydc=C7H3NO4, resulting from the phase transition around 200K. The diffraction pattern of the low temperature phase revealed satellite reflections, which could be indexed with q-vector 0.4051(10)b* corresponding to (3+1)D incommensurately modulated structure. The modulated structure was solved in the superspace group X21/c(0b0)s0, where X stands for a non-standard centring vector (½, 0, 0, ½), and compared with the room temperature phase. It is shown that hydrogen bonds are the main driving force of modulation.
Water/PEG Mixtures: Phase Behavior, Dynamics and Soft Confinement
Authors: Kuttich Björn , Matt Alexander , Weber Andreas , Grefe Ann-Kathrin , Vietze Laura , Stühn Bernd
Published: December 2017

Polyethylene glycol is water soluble and forms an eutectic system with water. The eutectic temperature is −19 °C for M=1500 g mol−1 and increases with molecular weight. The dielectric relaxation spectrum of the mixtures exhibits a strong loss maximum in ϵ″ (ω) similar to pure water. Relaxation time increases with the addition of PEG. Activation energies exhibit a maximum of 0.35 eV at molar fraction χp
≈0.2. This compares well with results on ethanol water mixtures. Adding PEG molecules to nanoscopic water droplets of inverse microemulsions has only small impact on the bending modulus κ of a non-ionic microemulsion. In AOT based microemulsions an increase or decrease of κ is found in dependence on the size of the droplets. This is in accordance with the variation of the dynamic percolation transition in the same systems.
A Combined Solid-State NMR, Dielectric Spectroscopy and Calorimetric Study of Water in Lowly Hydrated MCM-41 Samples
Authors: Brodrecht Martin , Klotz Edda , Lederle Christina , Breitzke Hergen , Stühn Bernd , Vogel Michael , Buntkowsky Gerd
Published: December 2017

The processes of drying mesoporous silica materials and their refilling with water have been examined by magic-angle spinning (MAS) solid-state NMR, broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It is shown that different drying protocols strongly influence the amount and types of hydroxy-species inside the pores. It is found that a very good vacuum (≈10−6 bar) is necessary to remove all H2O molecules from the silica matrices in order to accurately refill them with very low amounts of water such as e.g. a mono- or submonolayer coverage of the surface. Time-dependent 1H-NMR-spectra recorded after loading the samples indicate a very specific course of water first existing in a bulk-like form inside the pores and then distributing itself through the pores by hydrogen bonding to surface silanol groups. After assuring accurate sample loading, we were able to investigate lowly hydrated samples of water confined in MCM-41 via DCS and BDS at temperatures below the freezing point of free bulk-water (0°C) and find two non-crystallizing water species with Arrhenius behavior and activation energies of 0.53 eV (51.1 kJ/mol).
Fumigant toxicity of tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) and dill (Anethum graveolens L.) essential oils on different life stages of Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood)
Authors: Mousavi M. , Maroufpoor N. , Valizadegan O.
Published: December 2017

Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) is a polyphagous species. This pest is now well-established in the greenhouse ecosystem and is an economically important pest of horticultural and ornamental crops. The fumigants toxicity of tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) and dill (Anethum graveolens L.) essential oils on the life stages of Trialeurodes vaporariorum were investigated under laboratory conditions. Plants essence samples were obtained from the aerial parts of the plant by using Clevenger device. In this study, six concentrations (5 concentrations and one control) were used to evaluate LC50 level and five time periods were used for LT50. The LC50 values for Artemisia dracunculus and Anethum graveolens at 24 h after treatment of the eggs, nymphs and adults were 1.18, 0.45 and 0.69 μl l-1 air and 12.99, 5.67 and 8.03 μl l-1 air, respectively. Also, the LT50 value of tarragon essential oil on the eggs, nymphs and adults were 15.02, 5.12 and 9.05 hours and for dill were 18.66, 5.51 and 10.14 hours, respectively.
Narrowing the Gap: Lessons from RAISE Ten Years On
Authors: Holtom Duncan
Published: December 2017

Breaking the link between poverty and poor educational attainment has been a long- standing goal of the Welsh Government. Progress has been made, but a large gap remains in Wales. This paper revisits RAISE, the Welsh Government's first major funding programme aimed at closing the gap.
It considers the impact of RAISE upon pupils and schools and the lessons for contemporary interventions like the Pupil Deprivation Grant in Wales and Pupil Premium in England. The paper concludes that given the challenges many schools in disadvantaged areas face, integrating additional funding
for schools (like that provided by the Pupil Deprivation Grant) with support and challenge, through programmes like School Challenge Cymru, and area- based programmes, like the proposed Children's Zones, is needed to maximise the impact of additional funding.
for Peptides Microarray Data Analysis
Authors: Анисимов Д.С. , Tikhonov D.S.
Published: December 2017

To find energetically advantageous variants of the structure of the peptide ligand complexing with the proteins of the major histocompatibility
complex and the T-cell receptor (SwissProt ID: 2Z31), the binding energy of hexamers, which are fragments of the native ligand structure, was compared.
To form a set of investigated hexamers, the Taguchi method was used. In total, 53 variants of the structure of the complex were constructed and
investigated using molecular dynamics. Calculations were carried out both for complete complexes and for free structures - receptors and ligands.
On the basis of the obtained molecular trajectories, using the generalized Born method, the free energy of the structures was calculated and averaged
for each trajectory. Using the Taguchi method to analyze the peptide hexamer sequence, it was possible to determine prototypes of the ligand whose
structures have a higher binding energy to the receptor than the fragment of the original SQYRPS ligand. The applied approach significantly reduces
the time required for optimization of the peptide ligand structure.
Model of Complexation between C60 Fullerenes and Biologically Active Compounds
Authors: Воронин Д.П. , Voronin D.P.
Published: December 2017

Various model approaches for describing the equilibrium complexation of aromatic biologically active compounds with fullerene C60
molecules are proposed. Equilibrium constants of complexation for structurally different biologically active compounds in the aquatic
environment were obtained based on these approaches. Models of continuous and discrete aggregation of C60 molecules are
proposed, taking into account the polydisperse nature of fullerene solutions. The model of continuous aggregation considers the sequential growth
of aggregates upon addition of C60 fullerene monomers to the already existing aggregates, with the equilibrium self-association
constant of fullerene KF being the same for all stages of aggregation. The discrete model takes into account the presence
of separate stable aggregates and fractal type of the higher aggregates formation from C60 fullerene aggregates.
It is achieved by using the simplest two-level hierarchy of clusters distribution in the fractal series 1-4-7-13, known from the literature data.
The model of continuous aggregation represents the classical approach used throughout to describe the aggregation of small molecules, while
the discrete aggregation model can only be applied to fullerenes. The results obtained in this study lead to the conclusion that fullerene
C60 can form stable complexes with aromatic antitumor drugs, which open the possibility of using these substrates in the future
in cancer therapy.
Erfahrungen mit Web-basierter As-Built-Dokumentation
Authors: Brendelberger Michael , Dubovy Martin
Published: December 2017

Das Bestreben, eine vollkommen integrierte CAE-Welt mit stets aktuellen Daten zu generieren, auf die alle Gewerke Zugriff haben, scheint ein wünschenswertes Ziel zu sein. Die Praxis zeigt jedoch, dass ein anderer Ansatz sinnvoller ist, denn Anlagenplanung, -montage und -betrieb stellen an die eingesetzten Werkzeuge völlig unterschiedliche Anforderungen. Das zeigt sich, wie in diesem textdata beschrieben wird, am Beispiel der BASF SE in Ludwigshafen, die 2010 begann, die elektronische Anlagendokumentation Livedok für den gesamten Standort einzuführen. Das System unterstützt die Betriebsphase der Anlage und sorgt für eine praxisgerechte Ankopplung an Planungssysteme.
LITERATURA, CULTURA E NACIONALISMO BRASILEIROS NA SEGUNDA METADE DO SÉCULO XIX: O CASO DE JUVENAL GALENO (1836-1931)
Authors: Betioli Ribeiro Marques Cristina
Published: December 2017

Este artigo procura mostrar, a partir da análise do lançamento e da recepção das primeiras obras literárias do escritor cearense Juvenal Galeno, como se deu o processo inicial de incorporação da cultura popular como mote nacionalista para a literatura brasileira, na segunda metade do século XIX. Trata-se do momento em que o projeto cientificista de investigação da formação da cultura brasileira está em gestação, prestes a ser fomentado pela geração de bacharéis formados pela Escola de Recife, nos anos 1870.  This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
VICISSITUDES AND FRAGILITIES IN THE PSYCHOLOGICAL NOVEL: THE CREATIVE PROCESS OF MENALTON BRAFF
Authors: Costa e Silva Natali Fabiana
Published: December 2017

Menalton Braff is a Brazilian writer. Since his debut in 1984, he published more than 20 books, he won the Jabuti Award in 2000 and almost every year he is a finalist or semi-finalist in major Brazilian literary awards. This article aims to study the author’s creative process, which ranges from an engaged literature to the increase of subjectivity through the stream of consciousness. It is possible to capture how his narrative is built up on the dialogue between form and content as well as how he engages aesthetic and ethic project.   This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
“UMA BATIDA ESTRANHA” NO FACEBOOK: O PROGRAMA DE MOBILIDADE ACADÊMICA INTERNACIONAL EM DISCURSO
Authors: Gonçalves Jean Carlos , Pluschkat Patricia
Published: December 2017

Este artigo tem como objetivo compreender os sentidos do Programa de Mobilidade Acadêmica Internacional, a partir do discurso de alunos de um curso de graduação de uma universidade federal brasileira que realizaram intercâmbio em Portugal. A análise, tomando, como caso particular, enunciados postados na rede social Facebook, é ancorada na perspectiva dialógica do discurso, que tem nos estudos de Bakhtin e o Círculo sua principal filiação teórica. A mobilização da noção de interculturalidade se dá pelas contribuições de Homi Bhabha e Terry Egleton. Os resultados apontam a experiência do intercâmbio como um exercício de alteridade e enunciação, que se inscreve, inegavelmente, no campo da discursividade.  O estudo também chama a atenção para o uso da rede social Facebook como meio de interlocução, mediado por diferentes formas de leitura e escrita, o que o torna um fértil campo de investigação da linguagem e seu funcionamento em diferentes esferas de atividade.   This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
Evaluation of an Adaptive Learning Technology in a First-year Extended Curriculum Programme Physics course
Authors: Basitere Moses Mushe , Ivala Eunice Ndeto
Published: December 2017

Personalised, adaptive online learning platforms that form part of web-based proficiency tests play a major role in the improvement of the quality of learning in physics and assist learners in building proficiency, preparing for tests and using their time more effectively. In this study, the effectiveness of an adaptive learning platform, Wiley Plus ORION, was evaluated using proficiency test scores compared to paper-based test scores in a first-year introductory engineering physics course. Learners’ performance activities on the adaptive learning platform as well as their performance on the proficiency tests and their impact on the paper-based midterm averaged test were investigated using both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection. A comparison between learners’ performance on the proficiency tests and a paper-based midterm test was done to evaluate whether there was a correlation between their performance on the proficiency tests and the midterm test. Focus group interviews were carried out with three categories of learners to elicit their experiences. Results showed that there was a positive relationship between high-performing learners’ proficiency score in the midterm averaged test and that the proficiency test enhanced learners’ performance in the paper-based midterm averaged test.
Net-bottom Cage Inserts for Water Bird Casualties
Authors: Belle Jackie
Published: December 2017

My Bright Idea is a net-bottomed cage insert, which is used to
support pelagic avian casualties. The idea was designed and modified by the
<a href="https://www.bird-rescue.org/about/overview.aspx"
target="_blank">International Bird Rescue in California (Bird
Rescue).

 <img
src="https://www.veterinaryevidence.org/rcvskmod/icons/oa-icon.jpg"
alt="Open Access" /> <img
src="https://www.veterinaryevidence.org/rcvskmod/icons/pr-icon.jpg"
alt="Peer Reviewed" />
Stability of a pyrimethamine suspension compounded from bulk powder
Authors: Lewis Paul O. , Cluck David B. , Huffman Jessica D. , Ogle Amanda P. , Brown Stacy D.
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Development of a stability-indicating high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for pyrimethamine analysis, with subsequent application of that method to assess the 90-day stability of a pyrimethamine suspension compounded from bulk USP-grade pyrimethamine powder, is described.

Methods

A stability-indicating method of HPLC with ultraviolet detection specific to pyrimethamine was developed according to pharmacopeial recommendations and validated. The method was applied to investigate the stability of a 2-mg/mL pyrimethamine suspension in a vehicle consisting of Ora-Plus and Ora-Sweet (Perrigo) over a period of 90 days. Three replicate test preparations were stored at room temperature or refrigerated at 4.3–5.2 °C, and samples were analyzed in duplicate immediately after preparation and on study days 1, 2, 4, 7, 10, 14, 21, 30, 48, 60, 75, and 90.

Results

The 2-mg/mL suspension of pyrimethamine in Ora-Plus and Ora-Sweet retained 90–110% of the labeled potency to 90 days at both temperature ranges. However, color changes in the samples stored at room temperature observed at day 60 indicated that a beyond-use date less than 90 days from the preparation date should be specified when the suspension is to be stored at room temperature.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that USP-grade pyrimethamine powder can be formulated as a 2-mg/mL suspension in a vehicle of Ora-Plus and Ora-Sweet and is stable when stored at room temperature and when refrigerated, in amber plastic bottles, for 48 and 90 days, respectively.
Comparing inhalation and ingestion exposure to chemical contaminants and odorants in mixtures
Authors: Gallagher D. L. , Phetxumphou K. , Dietrich A. M.
Published: December 2017

Chemical spills polluting drinking water are often mixtures with each chemical having unique characteristics for partitioning, toxicity, and odour leading to significant differences in human risk exposures. A 2014 chemical spill of crude (4-methylcyclohexyl)methanol (MCHM) resulted in a $126 million USD fine to the water utility. The spill consisted of at least ten chemicals including 34% cis- and 60% trans-4-MCHM and 0.7% cis- and 0.3% trans-methyl-4-methylcyclohexanecarboxylate (MMCHC). While a very minor component, trans-MMCHC contributed substantially to odour because of its high Henry's Law Constant, 2.23 × 10−2 at 40 °C showering, and low odour threshold concentration (OTC), 0.02 ppb-v, air. Using USEPA risk assessment parameters in a 15-minute shower model with influent concentration of 42 ppb-aq cis- and trans-4-MMCHC, representative of initial spill concentrations in the distribution system, adult ingestion and inhalation for trans-MMCHC were almost equal, 4.00 × 10−4 and 4.26 × 10−4 mg/kg/d, respectively. For children, inhalation doses exceeded ingestion dose: 1.72 × 10−3 mg/kg/d versus 0.93 × 10−3 mg/kg/day trans-MMCHC. This exposure assessment with varying OTC for crude MCHM chemicals reinforces considering chemical, physical, and biological properties of all chemicals in the spill. Consumers aware of their exposure to chemicals in drinking water lost consumer confidence; the water utility was required to compensate individuals and businesses for financial losses.