bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Districttherapist
Authors: Карманова Тамара , Karmanova Tamara , Бабушкин Игорь , Babushkin Igor' , Лычев Валерий , Lychev Valeriy
Published: February 2019

The textbook presents the basic algorithms for the formation of the competence of the general practitioner in the primary health care system for the diagnosis, treatment, dispensary observation and prevention of patients with the most common diseases of the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, urinary, blood, musculoskeletal, and other diseases. The content of the textbook meets the requirements of the Federal State Educational Standards of Higher Education in the specialty 31.05.01 "Medicine". Designed for students of medical universities.
Maintenance and repair of ship heat exchangers
Authors: Шерстнев Николай , Sherstnev Nikolay
Published: February 2019

Features of designs of various types of the ship heat exchangers influencing conditions of their work and methods of maintenance and repair are shown. Recommendations for external inspection and control of heat exchangers, control of contamination of heat transfer surfaces and internal tightness of heat exchangers are given. The features of disassembly and Assembly of various types of heat exchangers, methods of cleaning, defecation and repair in ship conditions are shown
Logic
Authors: Воронцов Евгений , Voroncov Evgeny
Published: February 2019

This manual is a statement of the basic principles of logic, the mastery of which is an essential condition of education. The work has a purely practical focus. The theoretical positions given in the manual are necessary in the process of analysis of standard mental operations used in everyday and professional activities.
These provisions are illustrated by a variety of examples, each section is supplemented by tasks and tests.
For students of humanitarian specialties, students of colleges and gymnasiums.
O poglądach Profesora Witolda Mańczaka na paradygmaty językoznawstwa
Authors: Grochowski Maciej
Published: February 2019

The paper describes Witold Mańczak’s contribution to the development of general and theoretical linguistics in the last fifty years. Against the background of his monistic notion of language as a material entity, this author presents Mańczak’s critical evaluation of the methodological apparatus of paradigms which came after the inductive historical-comparative linguistics. The analysis focuses primarily on Mańczak’s criticism of Ferdinand de Saussure’s notion of language.
Vancomycin elution from a biphasic ceramic bone substitute
Authors: Stravinskas M. , Nilsson M. , Vitkauskiene A. , Tarasevicius S. , Lidgren L.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to analyze drain fluid, blood, and urine simultaneously to follow the long-term release of vancomycin from a biphasic ceramic carrier in major hip surgery. Our hypothesis was that there would be high local vancomycin concentrations during the first week with safe low systemic trough levels and a complete antibiotic release during the first month.

Methods

Nine patients (six female, three male; mean age 75.3 years (sd 12.3; 44 to 84)) with trochanteric hip fractures had internal fixations. An injectable ceramic bone substitute, with hydroxyapatite in a calcium sulphate matrix, containing 66 mg of vancomycin per millilitre, was inserted to augment the fixation. The vancomycin elution was followed by simultaneously collecting drain fluid, blood, and urine.

Results

The antibiotic concentration in the drain reached a peak during the first six hours post-surgery (mean 966.1 mg/l), which decreased linearly to a mean value of 88.3 mg/l at 2.5 days. In the urine, the vancomycin concentration reached 99.8 mg/l during the first two days, followed by a logarithmic decrease over the next two weeks to reach 0 mg/l at 20 days. The systemic concentration of vancomycin measured in blood serum was low and decreased linearly from 2.17 mg/l at one hour post-surgery to 0 mg/l at four days postoperatively.

Conclusion

This is the first long-term pharmacokinetic study that reports vancomycin release from a biphasic injectable ceramic bone substitute. The study shows initial high targeted local vancomycin levels, sustained and complete release at three weeks, and systemic concentrations well below toxic levels. The plain ceramic bone substitute has been proven to regenerate bone but should also be useful in preventing bone infection. Cite this article: M. Stravinskas, M. Nilsson, A. Vitkauskiene, S. Tarasevicius, L. Lidgren. Vancomycin elution from a biphasic ceramic bone substitute. Bone Joint Res 2019;8:49–54. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.82.BJR-2018-0174.R2.
Thread-Embedding Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Roh Jeong-Du
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of thread-embedding therapy for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. There were 20 patients treated with thread-embedding therapy at various acupoints on the muscles around the knee. Gender, age, location, morbidity period, numeric rating scale (NRS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) index, improvement result, side effects, and patient’s satisfaction were investigated. After the treatment, the NRS score (z = -4.07, p < 0.001) and WOMAC (p < 0.001) indices decreased in most patients. The NRS score decreased by more than 2 points in 95% of the patients. The WOMAC index decreased by 6-12 points. There were no serious side effects, although bruising, pain, and edema were observed. Overall, 85% of the patients felt satisfied with the thread-embedding therapy. These findings suggested that threadembedding therapy was effective and may be used widely for knee osteoarthritis.
Guidelines for the Preanalytical Conditions for Analyzing Circulating Cell-Free DNA
Authors: Meddeb Romain , Pisareva Ekaterina , Thierry Alain R
Published: February 2019

Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) isolated from blood has been identified as a potential biomarker in numerous fields, and has been the object of intensive research over the past decade, although its original discovery dates back 60 years. While it is already used routinely in commercial and clinical practice in oncology and prenatal testing, other potential applications have emerged, including for diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, organ transplantation, autoimmune diseases, sepsis, trauma, and sport management. As with the discovery and development of any biomarker, preanalytical requirements and documentation are as important as analytical requirements. Except for the case of noninvasive prenatal testing and prenatal diagnosis, the implementation of cfDNA in a clinical setting remains limited because of the lack of standardization of cfDNA analysis. In particular, only a few attempts have been made to collect and pool scientific data on the relevant preanalytical factors, and no standard operating procedure has yet been set. For this report, we have performed a thorough and systematic search via MEDLINE® for relevant preanalytical variables and patient factors. These form the basis of the guidelines we propose for analyzing nuclear cfDNA.
An American Story
Authors: Kiš Danilo
Published: February 2019

The twelve stories in this collection, published in various journals and newspapers in Yugoslavia between 1953 and 1967, provide fascinating insights into the development of Danilo Kiš as a writer. From lapidary childhood idylls to harrowing foreshadowings of the Holocaust, from a satirical treatment of totalitarianism to a philosophical reflection on perception and form, the subject matter is remarkably varied. The highly unusual title story is even set amidst the U.S. civil rights struggles of the 20th century, and several of the tales are redolent of science fiction.
The Suza Wedding
Authors: Sütő András
Published: February 2019

Sütő András A szúzai mennyegző című posztkoloniális, metaforikus történelmi drámája (1981) a világhódító Nagy Sándor perzsiai inváziójának és erőszakos asszimilációs törekvéseinek néhány csomópontban megragadott rajzán keresztül reflektál a romániai magyar kisebbség létét fenyegető, a Ceauşescu-önkényuralom 1970-es és 1980-as éveiben különösen fölerősödő beolvasztási folyamatokra. Az egyéni és kollektív lét bonyolult összefonódását dramatizáló – s ebben a nyugati modellektől eltérő – közösségi mélységű tragédia: magatartáslehetőségek, erkölcsi és morálfilozófiai dilemmák, a diktatúra kiváltotta pszichológiai torzulások sokrétű, árnyalatos ábrázolásával a sorskérdéseket boncolgató magyar drámairodalom fő vonulatába tartozik. A színművet Bertha Csilla és Donald E. Morse fordításában adjuk közre.
Analisis kinerja keuangan menggunakan metode economic value added (eva) dan market value added (mva) pada pt. Telekomunikasi indonesia (persero) tbk dan pt. Indosat tbk periode 2013-2017
Authors: Crysdayanti Mella Eka
Published: February 2019

Penelitian ini menganalisis kinerja keuangan dengan menggunakan metode Economic Value Added (EVA) dan Market Value Added (MVA), dan juga merupakan studi kasus yang menggunakan laporan keuangan perusahaan dalam perhitungannya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengukur dan membandingkan kinerja keuangan  PT. Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk, dan  PT. Indosat, Tbk  pada periode tahun 2013-2017 dengan menggunakan metode EVA dan MVA. Dari hasil penelitian menggunakan metode EVA dan MVA, hasil yang didapat bahwa PT. Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk merupakan perusahaan yang mampu memberikan nilai EVA yang positif (EVA>0) selama lima tahun berturut-turut dan memberikan nilai pasar saham yang positif ditunjukkan dengan nilai MVA yang positif (MVA>0) pada 2013-2017. Diikuti dengan PT. Indosat, Tbk yang hanya mampu memberikan nilai EVA positif (EVA>0) pada tahun 2016-2017 saja dan memberikan nilai tambah pasar positif (MVA>0) pertahunnya dari periode tahun 2013-2017.
BAG2 overexpression correlates with growth and poor prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hong Ying-Cai , Wang Zheng , Peng Bin , Xia Li-Gang , Lin Lie-Wen , Xu Zheng-Lei
Published: February 2019

Previous studies have suggested that Bcl2-associated athanogene 2 (BAG2) serves as a crucial regulator for tumorigenesis in multiple tumors. However, little is known about the effect of BAG2 on esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). This study focused on investigating whether BAG2 functions as a cancer-promoting gene in ESCC. In this work, gene expression data and clinical information from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), Oncomine and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were collected and analyzed. Expression of BAG2 in ESCC was determined using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). BAG2 was knocked down using small interference RNA (si-RNA) approach. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion were assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and transwell assays. Molecular mechanism was detected by western blotting assay. The expression of BAG2 both in ESCC tissues and cells was upregulated and overexpression was associated with worsened prognosis. BAG2 silencing inhibited ESCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, which was regulated by the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/ protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway. These results reveal contributions of BAG2 as a predictor and potential therapeutic target in ESCC.
Photonic crystal fiber metalens
Authors: Yang Jingyi , Ghimire Indra , Wu Pin Chieh , Gurung Sudip , Arndt Catherine , Tsai Din Ping , Lee Ho Wai Howard
Published: February 2019

Conventional optical fiber has excellent performance in guiding light, which has been widely employed for long-distance optical communication. Although the optical fiber is efficient for transmitting light, its functionality is limited by the dielectric properties of the core’s and cladding’s materials (e.g. Ge-doped-silica and silica glasses). The spot size of the transmitted light is diverging and restricted by the diffraction limit of the dielectric core, and the numerical aperture is determined by the refractive index of the fiber materials. However, the novel technology of metasurfaces is opening the door to a variety of optical fiber innovations. Here, we report an ultrathin optical metalens directly patterned on the facet of a photonic crystal optical fiber that enables light focusing in the telecommunication regime. In-fiber metalenses with focal lengths of 28 μm and 40 μm at a wavelength of 1550 nm are demonstrated with maximum enhanced optical intensity as large as 234%. The ultrathin optical fiber metalens may find novel applications in optical imaging, sensing, and fiber laser designs.
Crystal structure of N-((3R,10S,13S,17S)-17-((S)-1-(dimethylamino)ethyl)-10,13-dimethylhexadecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-yl)-N-methylbenzamide, C31H48N2O
Authors: Tan Bo , Wu Qi-Yun , Wu Ji-Chun , Huo Shao-Jie , He Xi-Cheng , Du Jiang
Published: February 2019

C31H48N2O, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 6.530(2) Å, b = 11.728(4) Å, c = 35.236(12) Å, V = 2698.6(15) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0492, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1034, T = 173 K.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[dibromido-{μ2-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-4-((pyridin-4-ylmethylene)amino)-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-one-κ2
N:O}zinc(II)], C34H32Br4N8O2Zn2
Authors: Pang Haixia
Published: February 2019

C34H32Br4N8O2Zn2, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 11.441(2) Å, b = 13.422(2) Å, c = 14.370(3) Å, α = 101.129(3)°, β = 99.587(2)°, γ = 114.972(3)°, V = 1885.0(6) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0510, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1775, T = 298(2) K.
Crystal structure of diaqua-dichlorido-bis(μ2-2-(((1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)imino)methyl)phenolato-κ4
O:O,N,O′)dicobalt(II), C36H36Cl2N6O6Co2
Authors: Pang Haixia , He Xiong , Feng Xiang , Yuan Ximing
Published: February 2019

C36H36Cl2N6O6Co2, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 7.4399(9) Å, b = 9.5362(11) Å, c = 13.1754(15) Å, α = 73.589(2)°, β = 84.396(2)°, γ = 74.709(2)°, V = 864.68(17) Å3, Z = 1, R
gt(F) = 0.0306, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1068, T = 298(2) K.
Crystal structure of methyl 2-(4-(3-(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-6-yl)phenyl)acetate, C19H17N5O2
Authors: Fang Bo , Meng Jiang Ping , Gan Lin Ling
Published: February 2019

C19H17N5O2, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 14.734(6) Å, b = 13.565(5) Å, c = 33.385(12) Å, β = 91.311(9)°, V = 6671(4) Å3, Z = 16, R
gt(F) = 0.0638, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1783, T = 293(2) K.
Metal-support interactions in the design of heterogeneous catalysts for redox processes
Authors: Lokteva Ekaterina S. , Golubina Elena V.
Published: February 2019

The effect of the metal-support interaction (MSI) has been discussed for several types of catalytic systems comprising metal nanoparticles (Ni, Pd, Au, Fe) on oxide and carbon supports, showing promising catalytic properties in hydrogenation of unsaturated C–C bonds, hydrodechlorination (HDC) of chlorinated organic molecules and CO total oxidation. The MSI of a different strength, from the redistribution of the electron density of nanoparticles (NPs) to the chemical interactions, is determined by the composition of the support and the active site, the method of active metal deposition, calcination temperature, particle size etc. The types of MSI considered in this review include: (1) the interaction of the active metal (Me) NPs with alumina and modified zirconia to form several oxidation states of Me in the composition of surface or bulk chemical compounds with a support; (2) the influence of oxide (alumina, silica) or carbon (highly oriented pyrolytic graphite, Sibunit) supports on the formation of active sites in the catalysts with ultra-low Me loading prepared by deposition of pre-formed metal NPs produced by laser electrodispersion (LED) or as colloidal dispersion; (3) the anchoring of Me NPs on the surface of carbon supports (nanodiamonds and carbon nanotubes) directly with a support surface, e.g. through surface defects, or through surface functional groups; (4) ‘reverse’ MSI in the Me@C composites, consisting of metal NPs, covered with the defected graphene layers or immersed into carbon matrix. It is demonstrated on the example of LED systems, that oxidation of metal under MSI is less significant in carbon-supported systems than in oxide-supported ones, but charge effects can play a noticeable role for both types of supports. Different ways of MSI tuning provide the possibilities to achieve the optimal Men+/Me0 ratio in the catalysts for HDC of mono- and polychlorinated organic molecules, including persistent organic pollutants. One of these ways is tuning the composition of functional groups on the surface of nanodiamonds and carbon nanotubes by additional treatments to achieve the desirable metal anchoring, the optimal metal NPs size and the improved catalytic properties. Unusual type of MSI is represented by the activation of thin graphene shell of Me@C composites by the presence of defects in the shell and a transition metal (Ni, Fe) in subsurface layer. This effect allows H2 activation that is a significant step in many industrially important reactions. The selectivity and activity of such systems can be intentionally changed by varying the nature of metal and reaction temperature. Significant attention has been given in the review to the novel catalytic systems described in the previous works of the authors.
Green chemical engineering in China
Authors: Zhang Xiangping , Liu Changjun , Ren Qilong , Qiu Xueqing , Xu Baohua , Zhou Xintong , Xie Yuanbang , Lou Hongming , Ali Mohammad Chand , Gao Hongshuai , Bai Yinge , Zhang Suojiang
Published: February 2019

In China, the rapid development greatly promotes the national economic power and living standard but also inevitably brings a series of environmental problems. In order to resolve these problems fundamentally, Chinese scientists have been undertaking research in the area of green chemical engineering (GCE) for many years and achieved great progresses. In this paper, we reviewed the research progresses related to GCE in China and screened four typical topics related to the Chinese resources characteristics and environmental requirements, i.e. ionic liquids and their applications, biomass utilization and bio-based materials/products, green solvent-mediated extraction technologies, and cold plasmas for coal conversion. Afterwards, the perspectives and development tendencies of GCE were proposed, and the challenges which will be faced while developing available industrial technologies in China were mentioned.
National External Quality Assessment follow-up: 2010–2017 Turkish experience
Authors: Mercan Ferzane , Serdar Muhittin A. , Senes Mehmet , Konukoglu Dildar , İnal Tamer Cevat , Alatas Özkan , Pinar Asli , Savci Özlem , Güven Muhammet , Gündüz Mehmet , Eğin Ertuğrul , Tipioğlu Yasal Önder , Tekin Ahmet , Yucel Doğan
Published: February 2019

Objective

Medical laboratories encounter critical obstacles in External Quality Assessment (EQA) practices that are key to assessment of the analytical period. Present study aims to unveil the challenges in nationwide inter-laboratory harmonization and suggest practical solutions.

Materials and methods

EQA results of 1941 laboratories participating in 18 different EQA-programs between 2010 and 2017 were examined. Standard Deviation Index (SDI) of each program calculated using 801,028 sample data from 24 different clinical chemical tests were used to conduct a process assessment.

Results

There is a significant discrepancy in unsatisfactory performance ratio among different EAQ-programs with an average of 3.4% (27,074 cases) between 2010 and 2017 and a decreasing trend (~40–50%) in 7-years. Programs with higher SDI display lower discrepancy rates. Reasons for unaccepted results appear to be data entry errors (8.27–22.2%), material dilution errors (5–11.4%), technical problems (3.76–7.9%); while random or unidentified causes account for a major of 44.9–59.5%. In 7-years, 15.7% reduction was observed in average SDI of all tests.

Conclusion

With the launch of national EQA follow-up program, increased awareness of the analytical processes led to a decrease in unaccepted results and variances in the analytical period. Staff training is suggested as a significant measure. In addition, simultaneous assessment of SDI and allowable total error rates would reduce the variation between programs.
Defining the Phases of Boxing Punches: A Mixed-Method Approach
Authors: Lenetsky Seth , Brughelli Matt , Nates Roy J. , Neville J.G. , Cross Matt R. , Lormier Anna V.
Published: February 2019

Lenetsky, S, Brughelli, M, Nates, RJ, Neville, JG, Cross, MR, and Lormier, AV. Defining the phases of boxing punches: A mixed-method approach. J Strength Cond Res 34(4): 1040–1051, 2020—Current research on punching in boxing has explored both kinematic and kinetic variables; however, there is no shared structure in the literature to describe these findings. A common method used to provide a shared structure in other sporting tasks is the definition of movement phases. To define the phases of 4 punches used in boxing (lead punches and rear straight and hook punches), 10 experienced and competitive boxers (age = 25.6 ± 5.97 years, height = 179.5 ± 7.72 cm, body mass = 95.66 ± 21.82 kg, and years training = 10.3 ± 5.97 years) were tested while performing maximal-effort punches. Ground reaction forces (GRFs), electromyographic, high-speed video (HSV), and striking dynamometry data were collected during all punches. A mixed-method approach was used to define the phases for each punch type based on the GRF measurements and impact timing from the striking dynamometer. Electromyographic and HSV data were then used to develop a more holistic understanding of punching actions by elaborating on the description of each phase. The final outcome of this approach has produced definitions for the phases of straight and hook punches, a greater qualitative understanding of said punches, and most importantly, a structure for current and future punching-related research, and a context to improve coach/sport scientist communication.
Effects of Caffeine Chewing Gum on Exercise Tolerance and Neuromuscular Responses in Well-Trained Runners
Authors: Dittrich Naiandra , Serpa Marília C. , Lemos Elisa Cristina , De Lucas Ricardo D. , Guglielmo Luiz Guilherme A.
Published: February 2019

Dittrich, N, Serpa, MC, Lemos, EC, De Lucas, RD, and Guglielmo, LGA. Effects of caffeine chewing gum on exercise tolerance and neuromuscular responses in well-trained runners. J Strength Cond Res 35(6): 1671–1676, 2021—This study aimed to investigate the effects of caffeinated chewing gum on endurance exercise, neuromuscular properties, and rate of perceived exertion on exercise tolerance. Twelve trained male runners (31.3 ± 6.4 years; 70.5 ± 6.6 kg; 175.2 ± 6.2 cm; 9.4 ± 2.7% body fat; and V̇o
2max = 62.0 ± 4.2 ml·kg−1·min−1) took part of the study. The athletes performed an intermittent treadmill test to determine maximal aerobic speed and delta 50% (Δ50%) intensity. In the following visits, they performed 2 randomized time to exhaustion tests (15.4 ± 0.7 km·h−1) after the ingestion of 300 mg of caffeine in a double-blind, crossover, randomized design. Maximal voluntary contraction of the knee extensor associated to surface electromyographic recording and the twitch interpolation technique were assessed before and immediately after the tests to quantify neuromuscular fatigue of the knee extensor muscles. Caffeine significantly improved exercise tolerance by 18% (p < 0.01). Neuromuscular responses decreased similarly after time to exhaustion in both exercise conditions; however, athletes were able to run a longer distance in the caffeine condition. The performance improvement induced by caffeine seems to have a neuromuscular contribution because athletes were able to run a longer distance with the same neuromuscular impairment.
Chronic Effects of Static and Dynamic Stretching on Hamstrings Eccentric Strength and Functional Performance: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Barbosa Germanna M. , Trajano Gabriel S. , Dantas Glauko A.F. , Silva Bianca R. , Vieira Wouber H. Brito
Published: February 2019

Barbosa, GM, Trajano, GS, Dantas, GAF, Silva, BR, and Vieira, WHB. Chronic effects of static and dynamic stretching on hamstrings eccentric strength and functional performance: A randomized controlled trial. J Strength Cond Res 34(7): 2031–2039, 2020—The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of static or dynamic stretching training program on hamstrings eccentric peak torque and functional performance. Forty-five active healthy men were randomly allocated into 3 groups (n = 15 per group): no stretching (control), static stretching (3 sets of 30 seconds), and dynamic stretching (3 sets of 30 repetitions). Static and dynamic stretching protocols on the hamstring muscles were performed 3 times a week until complete 10 sessions. Isokinetic knee flexor eccentric peak torque (60°·s−1), triple hop distance, and modified 20-m sprint time were assessed in a random order before and after stretching training. A mixed-design analysis of variance was performed, with an alpha level of 0.05. There was a significant decrease of eccentric peak torque (p ≤ 0.0001, −15.4 ± 10.4%, within-group effect size: 1.03) after static stretching training. The static stretching training reduced eccentric torque when compared with no stretching (−7.6 ± 21.7%, between-group effect size: 0.50) and dynamic stretching (−7.8 ± 29.8%, between-group effect size: 0.51). Moreover, the reached distance on triple hop test was also reduced after static stretching protocol (p = 0.009, −3.7 ± 4.1%, within-group effect size: 0.29). These findings suggest that static stretching training is sufficient to produce meaningful reductions on hamstrings eccentric torque and functional performance. Based on the results of this study, caution should be taken when prescribing of static stretching training in isolation when the purpose is to improve performance, and indirectly, to prevent hamstring strain injuries due to its possible negative effects on hopping performance and knee flexor eccentric torque.
Activation Energy of Conduction for Use in Temperature Corrections on Electrical Measurements of Concrete
Authors: Coyle Alex T. , Spragg Robert P. , Suraneni Prannoy , Amirkhanian Armen N. , Tsui-Chang Marisol , Weiss William Jason
Published: February 2019

The formation factor obtained through electrical resistivity measurements is becoming a popular method to determine transport properties of concrete. Resistivity measurements are dependent on multiple factors, including degree of saturation, pore solution conductivity, and temperature. The Arrhenius equation is used to correct electrical resistivity for temperature effects using an activation energy of conduction (Ea-cond). This parameter has been measured on a wide variety of materials, including pore solutions, pastes, mortars, and concretes (with a variety of saturation states). The reported values of Ea-cond typically range from 9 to 39 kJ/mol. This article examines the factors affecting Ea-cond in order to select an appropriate temperature correction. In this study, Ea-cond was determined from data measured on various concrete mixtures used in transportation infrastructure applications as well as extracted and simulated pore solutions. The Ea-cond of pore solutions remains relatively constant (an average value of 13.9 ± 1.5 kJ/mol) for typical pore solutions and was slightly lower than the Ea-cond of saturated specimens (an average value of 15.8 kJ/mol). It was found that Ea-cond increases as the degree of saturation of the specimen is reduced. Drying increases the ionic concentration of the fluid in the pores; however, this does not explain the changes in Ea-cond. The effects of drying were determined to be primarily due to a change in the volume of the conductive fluid film in the concrete and in the connectivity of the fluid-filled pores. While it is better to directly measure the Ea-cond of a concrete mixture, this is not always feasible or practical. In such cases, for pore solutions, a value of 13.9 kJ/mol can be used, and for saturated concretes, a value of 15.8 kJ/mol can be used. For concretes with a varying degree of saturation, the Ea-cond can be estimated using the developed equation.
Microstructural Study of Steel-Concrete Interface and Its Influence on Bond Strength of Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Goudar Sharan Kumar , Das B. B. , Arya S. B.
Published: February 2019

In this investigation, the variations in steel-concrete interface (SCI) properties, such as porous zone thickness and calcium hydroxide content around the reinforcing steel, were studied with respect to curing time. Three kinds of commercially used cements, ordinary portland cement (OPC), portland pozzolana cement (PPC), and portland slag cement (PSC), were used, and their significance regarding SCI properties was investigated. A reliable thresholding grayscale-based technique was used to determine the porous zone thickness at the SCI. The properties of SCI were found to be quite influenced by the curing period. The PSC concrete showed significant reduction in mean porous zone thickness at SCI compared with OPC and PPC concrete after 90 days of curing. The reduction in mean porous zone thickness can be considered one of the many influencing factors that resulted in increased ultimate bond strength at 90 days of curing. Also, the variation in calcium hydroxide content from the SCI toward the bulk concrete was examined with a scanning electron microscope empowered with energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The findings indicate a gradual decrease in calcium hydroxide content away from the steel surface toward the bulk concrete. The prolonged curing resulted in a slightly higher reduction of calcium hydroxide content around the SCI for PPC and PSC concrete because of the pozzolanic reactions. Higher reduction of calcium hydroxide content around the SCI for PPC and PSC concrete is predicted to be the reason for improved ultimate bond strength after prolonged curing.
Interlaboratory Study to Determine Precision for Defect Detection and Rating of Plastic Film Using Optical Sensors According to ASTM D7310
Authors: Colegrove Brenda , McAlpin Casey , Garner Richard , Mayo Peter
Published: February 2019

Recently, the five-year review for ASTM D7310, Standard Guide for Detection and Rating of Plastic Films Using Optical Sensors, was carried out. One of the key goals for this review was refining the document such that it may eventually be transitioned to a full-fledged test method. However, before such a goal could be realized, it was necessary to determine the practical limitations of the technique relative to the expected precision, repeatability, and reproducibility. To that end, interlaboratory studies were carried out in two stages. Stage one served as a pilot study and the participating laboratories were given limited guidance. This allowed identification of key control variables that would need to be defined in subsequent broader studies and ultimately in the future method. In stage two, the key variables identified in stage one were controlled and the precision of the technique was elucidated for three material types: polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, and low-density polyethylene. The results from these studies are discussed herein.
Gastrointestinal capacity, gut hormones and appetite change during rat pregnancy and lactation
Authors: Johnson Michelle L , Saffrey M Jill , Taylor Victoria J
Published: February 2019

Pregnancy and lactation increase maternal appetite and adiposity, which in humans can lead to long-term body mass retention. Previous rat reproduction studies suggest that appetite-inhibiting gut hormone, peptide-YY (PYY), is elevated, despite hyperphagia also that gastrointestinal size increases. The present study characterised changes in orexigenic (appetite-stimulating) ghrelin and anorexigenic (appetite-inhibiting) PYY and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and gastrointestinal architecture during pregnancy and lactation, in matched fed and fasted plasma and gut tissue samples taken during the dark phase. Enteroendocrine cells were immunolabelled, and gut masses and lengths were measured. Fasted plasma ghrelin reduced during pregnancy: it was lowest by day 18, recovered to control values at parturition, then increased by the end of lactation. Ghrelin-immunoreactive stomach cells and stomach ghrelin concentrations were highest at birth, prior to the onset of lactation-associated hyperphagia. Plasma fed GLP-1 concentrations were elevated during pregnancy, and together with higher colon concentrations of PYY and GLP-1 during early lactation, they were associated with gastrointestinal tissue expansion, not satiety. Body mass increased during lactation, whereas white adipose tissue depots depleted. Extensive gut remodelling coincided with elevated colon concentrations of PYY and GLP-1. Modifications included stomach and caecum expansion, and duodenal, ascending and descending colon circumference increases, all peaking by day 10 of lactation; increased intestinal masses and lengths peaking at lactation day 10 for small intestine and lactation day 25 for large intestine. If these physical tissue increases persist post-partum, they could accelerate future nutrient assimilation and storage in dams, and may contribute to increased obesity risk.
Sensibilidad y escenarios de disponibilidad de agua para consumo humano en la microcuenca del río Porrosatí, Heredia, Costa Rica
Authors: Montero-Sánchez Esteban , Herrera-Murillo Jorge , Ramírez-Granados Pablo
Published: February 2019

La variabilidad climática y el cambio del uso de la tierra representan una de las mayores condicionantes para la disponibilidad de agua para consumo humano en el futuro. Con el objetivo de analizar la disponibilidad de agua para uso y consumo humano en la microcuenca del río Porrosatí, se calcularon balances hídricos con base en la recarga de agua subterránea. Para las estimaciones se utilizaron registros meteorológicos de 15 años, en el periodo comprendido entre el año 2000 a 2014, y análisis de las características hidrológicas. Con el fin de realizar escenarios de recarga hídrica en el mediano (2026-2030) y largo plazo (2051-2055), tomando en consideración escenarios y por el cambio climático se utilizaron las predicciones de variación de temperatura y precipitación elaborados por el Instituto Meteorológico Nacional, bajo un escenario de emisiones A2. Los resultados obtenidos muestran comportamientos atípicos con cambios significativos en el comportamiento estacional de la recarga. Los volúmenes proyectados a futuro dan cuenta de importantes disminuciones, que en algunos casos superan el 15% como media llegando hasta diferencias del 50%. En el escenario de largo plazo se notó un importante cambio en comportamiento estacional, dando como resultado la aparición de dos picos de recarga. Las proyecciones climáticas presentan un escenario complejo con limitaciones a la recarga hídrica de agua subterránea y, por ende, a la disponibilidad de agua para consumo humano en el mediano y largo plazo.
Nubes de ceniza, campos de arena. Actividad volcánica en Costa Rica y su impacto en el sector agropecuario, 1950-2017
Authors: Coto-Cedeño Wainer Ignacio
Published: February 2019

Este artículo explica, desde una perspectiva histórica, la actividad eruptiva de los volcanes en Costa Rica y su impacto en la agricultura y la ganadería durante el período 1950-2017. Específicamente, la investigación analiza cómo las “lluvias de ceniza” y gases expulsados por los macizos afectaron el sector ganadero y los cultivos de algodón, maíz, arroz, papa y café, entre otros. El estudio se apoya en documentación bibliográfica y fuentes primarias disponibles en la Biblioteca Nacional, Comisión Nacional de Emergencias (CNE), Archivo Nacional de Costa Rica (ANCR), Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería (MAG), Red Sismológica Nacional (RSN) y Observatorio Vulcanológico y Sismológico de Costa Rica (OVSICORI).
Cotilos de doble movilidad. Uso para la revisión femoral aislada de prótesis de cadera con fricción metal/metal con cabezas grandes. [Use of dual mobility acetabular cups for isolated femoral revision of metal on metal hip resurfacing arthroplasty using larger femoral heads]
Authors: Valdez Sebastián Enrique
Published: February 2019

Los recambios de cadera con cabezas metálicas grandes provocan una mayor tasa de complicaciones, principalmente asociadas al retiro del componente acetabular, como al par fricción utilizado. En casos determinados, pueden realizarse revisiones femorales aisladas, conservando la copa acetabular, disminuyendo la morbilidad quirúrgica.Presentamos un caso tratado exitosamente con una copa de doble movilidad, en un paciente con una prótesis de superficie con un seudotumor que generó dolor e inestabilidad.El conocimiento de esta técnica quirúrgica permite al cirujano de cadera resolver problemas complejos de forma sencilla y segura, con una baja tasa de complicaciones.  AbstractLarge head metal on metal hip arthroplasty revision has a significant complication rate, mainly related to the removal of the acetabular component, as well as to the friction pair used. In some cases, an isolated femoral revision can be made, sparing the acetabular cup and, thus, decreasing surgical morbidity.This paper discusses a case successfully treated with a dual mobility acetabular cup in a patient with a resurfacing hip replacement and a pseudotumor that caused pain and instability.Mastering this surgical approach allows hip surgeons to solve complex problems in a simple and safe manner, and with a low complication rate.
Extremidad superior gravemente lesionada. Reporte de un caso clínico. [Mangled upper extremity. Case report]
Authors: Sánchez Villanueva Francisco Javier , Suárez Villalobos Pablo , Grau Núñez Luis , Sepúlveda Oviedo Matías
Published: February 2019

Se presenta un paciente con una extremidad superior gravemente lesionada por arma de fuego. Inicialmente fue tratado con múltiples limpiezas quirúrgicas y colocación de tutor externo AO. El tratamiento definitivo consistió en tutor externo monolateral, además de injerto estructural de cresta ilíaca. Durante el manejo inicial, se detecta lesión del nervio radial, con nervio en continuidad. Dado el proceso cicatricial y la infección de partes blandas, no se logra manejar en la etapa aguda. Posteriormente se realizan transferencias tendinosas para nervio radial. La evolución fue favorable y la función de la extremidad superior resultó satisfactoria. Se comunica este caso debido a su complejo manejo a causa de las lesiones óseas, neurovasculares, cutáneas y de partes blandas.  AbstractWe present a patient with a severely injured upper extremity due to a shotgun. Patient was initially managed with multiple surgical debridements and an AO external fixator.Final treatment was performed with a monolateral external fixator, in addition to an iliac crest structural bone graft. During initial management, a radial nerve injury was observed;the nerve was intact, though devitalized. Given the scarring process and soft tissue infection, treatment was performed in the acute phase. Subsequently, tendon transfers were made to treat a radial nerve injury. Patient evolved favorably and regained adequate function of the upper extremity.This case is presented due to its complex management due to bone, neurovascular, skin, and soft tissue involvement.
The effect of wet-cupping on the severity of migraine headaches: Randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Zarei Mohammad , Tabatabaee Amir , Roshan Ravan Mostafa
Published: February 2019

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the effect of wet-cupping on pain intensity in patients with migraines.
Method: 132 patients were diagnosed with migraines. Pain intensity was evaluated based on the visual analogue scale. After homogenizing the data, patients were randomly divided into two (wet-cupping and control) groups. Paired t-test, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used to analyze the data.
Results: The mean of pain intensity of wetcupping (7.61+/-1.29) and control (7.22+/-1.21) before the intervention showed no significant difference (p=0.401). There was a significant difference between the mean of pain relief intensity of wet-cupping (2.4+/-1.9) and control (0.6+/-0.8) groups before and after interventions (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Wet-cupping is an effective tool to treat migraine headaches.
Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials IRCT201110314495N2
Ultrafiltration in Acute Heart Failure
Authors: Costanzo Maria Rosa
Published: February 2019

Congestion is the predominant cause of more than 1 million annual heart failure hospitalisations and recurrent fluid overload predicts poor outcomes. Unresolved congestion trumps serum creatinine increases in predicting adverse heart failure outcomes. No pharmacological approach for acute heart failure has reduced these deleterious consequences. Simplified ultrafiltration devices permit fluid removal in lower acuity hospital settings, but results regarding safety and efficacy have been variable. However, adjustment of ultrafiltration rates to patients’ vital signs and renal function has been associated with more effective decongestion and fewer heart failure events. Many aspects of ultrafiltration, including patient selection, fluid removal rates, venous access, prevention of therapy- related complications and costs, require further investigation.
Sistema de gestión de la calidad para el proceso de investigación: Universidad de Otavalo, Ecuador
Authors: Becerra Lois Francisco Ángel , Andrade Orbe Adrián Manuel , Díaz Gispert Lidia Inés
Published: February 2019

El modo en que las universidades han adoptado un enfoque centrado en la gestión de la calidad para lograr una mayor eficiencia y eficacia en la dirección de los procesos universitarios, y asegurar su mejora continua, es uno de los problemas principales de la gestión universitaria moderna. El objetivo general del artículo es proponer un Sistema de Gestión de la Calidad (SGC) para el proceso de investigación, basado en la norma ISO 9001:2015 y en el modelo de evaluación institucional utilizado en Ecuador, para certificar la calidad de las universidades. La Universidad de Otavalo incluyó en su plan estratégico 2015-2020 el diseño e implementación de un SGC, lo cual requirió el desarrollo de una investigación de naturaleza exploratoria y descriptiva, así como el uso de una metodología mixta estructurada en siete etapas, que abarcaron desde la definición del tipo de estudio hasta el diseño del SGC. Además, incluyó los instrumentos de investigación estructurados y no estructurados, elaborados para la recolección de la información. El resultado final del trabajo fue un diagnóstico fundamentado de la situación del proceso de investigación en la institución y el diseño e implementación de un SGC, el cual está integrado por cinco subprocesos con sus respectivas caracterizaciones, flujogramas y procedimientos, incluyendo los documentos y registros requeridos para el aseguramiento de la calidad. Su aplicación ha permitido mejorar la organización del proceso investigativo, evidenciado en los resultados en la gestión de proyectos y en la producción científica lograda.
El papel de la memoria de trabajo y la inteligencia fluida en las calificaciones escolares: Un enfoque de ecuaciones estructurales
Authors: Sibaja-Molina Johanna , Sánchez-Pacheco Tracy , Rodríguez-Villagra Odir Antonio
Published: February 2019

El objetivo de este artículo es analizar si las diferencias individuales en capacidad de la memoria de trabajo e inteligencia fluida durante la edad preescolar predicen las calificaciones en las materias básicas al finalizar el primer año de escuela primaria. Para ello se aplicaron pruebas cognitivas a 132 estudiantes de preescolares públicos costarricenses, y posteriormente se solicitaron sus calificaciones al finalizar su primer año escolar. Dado que algunos estudios reportan diferencias de sexo en el desempeño académico, se realizaron pruebas de invarianza factorial y estructural como aspectos cuantitativos fundamentales para interpretar, adecuadamente, los resultados del presente estudio. Dichas pruebas estadísticas indicaron que las personas estudiantes fueron estadísticamente equivalentes en todos los parámetros del modelo. Posteriormente, en un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales que asumió invarianza factorial y estructural entre sexos se muestra que: a) diferencias individuales en capacidad de memoria de trabajo, pero no en inteligencia fluida, predicen las calificaciones en el primer año escolar; b) la capacidad de memoria de trabajo predice la inteligencia fluida; y c) las asignaturas de Matemática y Español, en comparación con las otras asignaturas, comparten aspectos que podrían estar asociados con la necesidad de decodificar simbologías. Así pues, los hallazgos del presente estudio proporcionan evidencias respecto a indicadores cognitivos tempranos que son fundamentales para el futuro desempeño escolar de esta población estudiantil. Asimismo, se muestra la equivalencia en la variación de estas habilidades respecto al sexo.
Detección de errores de medicación en el servicio de emergencias de un hospital privado en Costa Rica: oportunidades de mejora y seguridad para el paciente.
Authors: Chaverri Fernández José Miguel , Zavaleta Monestel Esteban , Díaz Madriz José Pablo , Garro Zamora Luis David , Ortiz Ureña Angie , Carmona Castro Nidia , Martínez Caamaño Lauren
Published: February 2019

Objetivo: Determinar los tipos de errores de medicación, incidencia y causas en una muestra de pacientes del servicio de urgencias de un hospital privado en Costa Rica. Metodología: Estudio retrospectivo observacional, se seleccionaron los pacientes atendidos entre el 1 de octubre al 31 de diciembre del 2014, que contaban con prescripciones médicas digitalizadas; se evaluaron las variables para asignar una categoría para cada error de medicación detectado por paciente y para cada medicamento prescrito. Resultados: Se detectó un total de 435 errores de medicación, siendo los más comunes la selección incorrecta de medicamentos y la prescripción incompleta; en promedio se obtuvo 1,44 errores por prescripción, mayoritariamente en pacientes entre los 18 y 40 años (48,7%). De 300 casos analizados, en 192 se encontró al menos un error de prescripción: 6 fueron un error potencial, 183 un error sin daño al paciente y 3 una combinación de estos. Conclusiones: Existe una alta incidencia de errores de medicación en el servicio analizado; la mayoría corresponden a una inadecuada selección de medicamentos y omisión de información en las prescripciones médicas, sin embargo, en general no tuvieron consecuencias clínicas. Es necesario desarrollar estrategias adecuadas para mejorar el uso de los medicamentos en este servicio.
Bacteriemia por Staphylococcus aureus. Un abordaje inicial simplificado.
Authors: Montero Chacón Luis Bolivar , Dobles Ramírez Carlos , Salas Segura Donato A.
Published: February 2019

El  Staphylococcus aureus es un germen causante de infecciones severas que ponen en riesgo la vida de los pacientes.  La bacteriemia constituye una de las presentaciones más graves de este tipo de infecciones, con un abordaje y tratamiento que a menudo resultan complejos e incompletos. La selección de la terapia antibiótica, la duración de la misma y los niveles séricos del antibiótico, a menudo se determinan de forma empírica y especulativa; llevando con frecuencia a fallas terapéuticas. El uso concomitante de oxacilina y vancomicina, mientras se obtiene el perfil de sensibilidad, es una buena opción para iniciar el tratamiento.