bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ventilatory efficiency and aerobic capacity in people with multiple sclerosis: A randomized study
Authors: Riksfjord Stine Maren , Brændvik Siri Merete , Røksund Ola D , Aamot Inger-Lise
Published: December 2017

Objectives:

To assess ventilatory efficiency and aerobic capacity in people with multiple sclerosis and whether treadmill walking or progressive strength training has an effect on these parameters in this population.

Methods:

In all, 24 adults with multiple sclerosis with an Expanded Disability Status Scale score of ≤6 completed a cardiopulmonary exercise test before and after 8 weeks of exercise. They were randomized to treadmill walking of low-to-moderate intensity (50%–70% of peak heart rate) or progressive strength training (six repetitions × two at 80% of one repetition maximum). Both groups exercised for 30 min three times per week. Primary outcome measure was ventilatory efficiency measured as the minute ventilation/carbon dioxide production (VE/VCO2) ratio and oxygen uptake efficiency slope. Secondary outcome was aerobic capacity, measured as peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak).

Results:

Despite low aerobic capacity, ventilatory efficiency was found to be within normal range. After 8 weeks of exercise, no significant between-group differences emerged in (1) VE/VCO2 ratio (26 ± 2.2 to 26 ± 2.0, 29 ± 2.0 to 28 ± 2.3, p = 0.66), (2) oxygen uptake efficiency slope (2697 ± 442 to 2701 ± 577, 2473 ± 800 to 2481 ± 896, p = 0.71), or (3) VO2peak in mL/kg/min (28 ± 4.4 to 30 ± 4.3, 29 ± 6.7 to 29 ± 6.4, p = 0.38) in treadmill walking and progressive strength training, respectively. There were no significant within-group differences either. No adverse events occurred during cardiopulmonary exercise test or exercise training.

Conclusion:

In people with mild-to-moderate multiple sclerosis, 8 weeks of treadmill walking of low-to-moderate intensity or progressive strength training did not have any effect on ventilatory efficiency or aerobic capacity. Although aerobic capacity was lower than reference values, ventilatory efficiency was not reduced.
Return to work in heart failure patients with suspected viral myocarditis
Authors: Reibis Rona , Kühl Uwe , Salzwedel Annett , Rasawieh Mortesa , Eichler Sarah , Wegscheider Karl , Völler Heinz
Published: December 2017

Background:

Endomyocardial biopsy is considered as the gold standard in patients with suspected myocarditis. We aimed to evaluate the impact of bioptic findings on prediction of successful return to work.

Methods:

In 1153 patients (48.9 ± 12.4 years, 66.2% male), who were hospitalized due to symptoms of left heart failure between 2005 and 2012, an endomyocardial biopsy was performed. Routine clinical and laboratory data, sociodemographic parameters, and noninvasive and invasive cardiac variables including endomyocardial biopsy were registered. Data were linked with return to work data from the German statutory pension insurance program and analyzed by Cox regression.

Results:

A total of 220 patients had a complete data set of hospital and insurance information. Three quarters of patients were virus-positive (54.2% parvovirus B19, other or mixed infection 16.7%). Mean invasive left ventricular ejection fraction was 47.1% ± 18.6% (left ventricular ejection fraction <45% in 46.3%). Return to work was achieved after a mean interval of 168.8 ± 347.7 days in 220 patients (after 6, 12, and 24 months in 61.3%, 72.2%, and 76.4%). In multivariate regression analysis, only age (per 10 years, hazard ratio, 1.27; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–1.46; p = 0.001) and left ventricular ejection fraction (per 5% increase, hazard ratio, 1.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.12; p = 0.002) were associated with increased, elevated work intensity (heavy vs light, congestive heart failure, 0.58; 95% confidence interval, 0.34–0.99; p < 0.049) with decreased probability of return to work. None of the endomyocardial biopsy–derived parameters was significantly associated with return to work in the total group as well as in the subgroup of patients with biopsy-proven myocarditis.

Conclusion:

Added to established predictors, bioptic data demonstrated no additional impact for return to work probability. Thus, socio-medical evaluation of patients with suspected myocarditis furthermore remains an individually oriented process based primarily on clinical and functional parameters.
Urinary perforation in spina bifida: Neurosurgical and infectious consequences
Authors: Callanan Deborah , Phillips Timothy , Tullous Micam
Published: December 2017

As the number of medically complex children increases, pediatricians and emergency physicians face challenges in evaluating complications from devices placed to treat their underlying conditions. We present a child with spina bifida who developed a perforation of his vesicostomy leading to peritonitis, septic shock, and urgent externalization of his ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Multiple consultants may need to be promptly involved in the management of children with underlying medical problems. Because procedural complications are often reported only in the surgical specialty literature, pediatricians and emergency physicians should seek information from their patients’ specialists about potential problems.
A RandomizEd trial of ENtERal Glutamine to minimIZE thermal injury (The RE-ENERGIZE Trial): a clinical trial protocol
Authors: Heyland Daren K. , Wischmeyer Paul , Jeschke Marc G. , Wibbenmeyer Lucy , Turgeon Alexis F. , Stelfox Henry T. , Day Andrew G. , Garrel Dominique
Published: December 2017

Background:

Burn injury represents a significant public health problem worldwide. More than in any other injury, the inflammation and catabolism associated with severe burns can exacerbate nutrient deficiencies resulting in impaired immune function and increased risk of developing infection, organ dysfunction and death. Consequently, over the last few decades numerous trials have evaluated the impact of different nutritional strategies in severe burn injury. Glutamine is of particular interest, as it appears vital for a number of key stress-response pathways in serious illness. The purpose of the current manuscript is to provide the rationale and protocol for a large clinical trial of supplemental enteral glutamine in 2700 severe burn-injured patients.

Methods:

We propose a multicentre, double-blind, pragmatic, randomized, clinical trial involving 80 tertiary intensive care unit (ICU) burn centres worldwide. We aim to enrol patients with deep second- and/or third-degree burns at moderate or high risk for death. We will exclude patients admitted > 72 h before screening and patients with advanced liver and kidney disease. The study intervention consists of enteral glutamine 0.5 g/kg/day vs. isocaloric maltodextran control delivered enterally. Primary outcome will be six-month mortality. Key secondary outcomes include time to discharge alive from hospital, ICU and hospital mortality, length of stay and health-related quality of life at six months.

Significance:

This study will be the first large international multicentre trial examining the effects of glutamine in burn patients. Negative or positive, the results of this trial will inform the clinical practice of burns care worldwide. Clinicaltrials.gov ID #NCT00985205
Where is Uzbekistan’s trade and where should it be directed? Gravity analyses for being doubly landlocked
Authors: Oh Jinhwan , Yuldashev Bekzod , Moon Soo Hyun
Published: December 2017

This study applies the gravity model to describe Uzbekistan’s trade pattern, based on which several policy implications are made. We find that Uzbekistan’s estimated trade flows with Ukraine, Russia, China, and South Korea are much more than the actual flows, while the country’s economic contacts with its neighboring countries (Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Azerbaijan) are far less than expected. This suggests that Uzbekistan should strive to increase trade with neighboring countries, through taking part in a free trade agreement between countries of Central Asia, or strategically using neighboring countries bordering the Caspian Sea and Arabian Sea.
Urban sustainability and political parties: Eco-development in Stockholm and Amsterdam
Authors: Bossuyt Daniël M , Savini Federico
Published: December 2017

In environmental planning practice, political parties tend to be perceived as marginal, unimportant or even dysfunctional. Although urban politicians are increasingly important in the formulation of strong sustainable policies, there is little research that explicitly and empirically looks at the role of elected officials in shaping policies for urban sustainability. This paper scrutinizes the role of parties in formulating urban agendas of sustainable development and in triggering projects of eco-district development in Amsterdam and Stockholm. It does so in order to show how parties play a multiplicity of roles: they mobilize voters through differentiated agendas, they organize the translation of agendas into interventions and act as power holders in the formulation of sustainable urban policies. Combining a post-political framework and classic work on electoral politics, we show how this dynamic occurs in practice. We empirically illustrate that the behavior of parties resonates with the insights of a post-political critique but they do not behave linearly and homogeneously in the ‘policing’ process. They show a complex combination of mobilizing, politicizing and depoliticizing tactics. Political parties are relevant to eco-development and should be problematized within contemporary urban research.
Assessing Historic Places Regarding Risks and Vulnerabilities Associated with Climate Change to Inform Conservation Planning—Development of Assessment Methods in Northern Europe
Authors: Hermann Carsten
Published: December 2017

In the face of anthropogenic climate change, the management of cultural heritage must change the world over, in order to adapt historic places to the resulting impacts. Concepts for climate change mitigation and adaptation are well developed, but their application specifically in the context of the historic environment is limited. The number of methods and tools to assess the risks of climate change impacts on historic places and the vulnerabilities of these places to these risks is still small.

In this article, three assessment methods will be discussed, which were developed through projects in Northern Europe: Cultural and Heritage Added Value to Regional Policies for Tourism and Sustainability (CHARTS) disseminated a risk and vulnerability assessment to investigate the impacts of climate change on the historic environment of Wales. The Aurland project, in Norway, piloted a site-specific assessment method through local and expert input. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is reviewing its portfolio of historic places with a novel impact assessment and mapping method, using a geographical information system (GIS).

This article discusses the differences of the approaches chosen by the projects to assess climate change impacts and plan adaptation measures. The article concludes with outlining a recently started project, Adapt Northern Heritage, involving HES and two Aurland partners, Riksantikvaren and the Norsk institute for kulturminneforskning, as well as Minjastofnun Íslands.
Breathing training for dysfunctional breathing in asthma: taking a multidimensional approach
Authors: Courtney Rosalba
Published: December 2017

Various breathing training programmes may be helpful for adults with asthma. The main therapeutic aim for many of these programmes is the correction of dysfunctional breathing. Dysfunctional breathing can be viewed practically as a multidimensional entity with the three key dimensions being biochemical, biomechanical and psychophysiological. The objectives of this review are to explore how each of these dimensions might impact on asthma sufferers, to review how various breathing therapy protocols target these dimensions and to determine if there is evidence suggesting how breathing therapy protocols might be optimised.

Databases and reference lists of articles were searched for peer-reviewed English language studies that discussed asthma or dysfunctional breathing and various breathing therapies.

Biochemical, biomechanical and psychophysiological aspects of dysfunctional breathing can all potentially impact on asthma symptoms and breathing control. There is significant variation in breathing training protocols and the extent to which they evaluate and improve function in these three dimensions.

The various dimensions of dysfunctional breathing may be of greater or lesser importance in different cases and the effectiveness of breathing training protocols is likely to be improved when all three dimensions are considered. Outcomes for breathing training for dysfunctional breathing in asthma may be most successful when the three key dimensions of dysfunctional breathing are evaluated at the start of treatment and monitored during treatment. This allows breathing training protocols to be adjusted as appropriate to ensure that treatment is sufficiently comprehensive and intensive to produce measurable improvements where necessary.
American College of Surgeons Children’s Surgery Verification Quality Improvement Program: What Anesthesiologists Need to Know Now
Authors: Brooks Peterson Melissa , Houck Constance S. , Deshpande Jayant K. , Flick Randall P.
Published: December 2017

A task force of pediatric surgical specialists with the support of The American College of Surgeons recently launched a verification program for pediatric surgery, the Children’s Surgery Verification quality improvement program, with the goal of improving pediatric surgical, procedural, and perioperative care. Included in this program are specific standards for the delivery of pediatric anesthesia care across a variety of practice settings. We review the background, available evidence, requirements for verification, and verification process and its implications for the practice of pediatric anesthesia across the country. In addition, we have included a special roundtable interview of 3 recently Children’s Surgery Verification–verified program directors to provide an up-to-date real-world perspective of this children’s surgery quality improvement program.
A CK1 FRET biosensor reveals that DDX3X is an essential activator of CK1ε
Authors: Dolde Christine , Bischof Joachim , Grüter Simon , Montada Anna , Halekotte Jakob , Peifer Christian , Kalbacher Hubert , Baumann Ulrich , Knippschild Uwe , Suter Beat
Published: December 2017

Casein kinase 1 (CK1) plays central roles in various signal transduction pathways and performs many cellular activities. For many years CK1 was thought to act independently of modulatory subunits and in a constitutive manner. Recently, DEAD box RNA helicases, in particular DEAD box RNA helicase 3 X-linked (DDX3X), were found to stimulate CK1 activity in vitro. In order to observe CK1 activity in living cells and to study its interaction with DDX3X, we developed a CK1-specific FRET biosensor. This tool revealed that DDX3X is indeed required for full CK1 activity in living cells. Two counteracting mechanisms control the activity of these enzymes. Phosphorylation by CK1 impairs the ATPase activity of DDX3X and RNA destabilizes the DDX3X–CK1 complex. We identified possible sites of interaction between DDX3X and CK1. While mutations identified in the DDX3X genes of human medulloblastoma patients can enhance CK1 activity in living cells, the mechanism of CK1 activation by DDX3X points to a possible therapeutic approach in CK1-related diseases such as those caused by tumors driven by aberrant Wnt/β-catenin and Sonic hedgehog (SHH) activation. Indeed, CK1 peptides can reduce CK1 activity.
MARCKS-related protein regulates cytoskeletal organization at cell–cell and cell–substrate contacts in epithelial cells
Authors: Van Itallie Christina M. , Tietgens Amber Jean , Aponte Angel , Gucek Marjan , Cartagena-Rivera Alexander X. , Chadwick Richard S. , Anderson James M.
Published: December 2017

Treatment of epithelial cells with interferon-γ and TNF-α (IFN/TNF) results in increased paracellular permeability. To identify relevant proteins mediating barrier disruption, we performed proximity-dependent biotinylation (BioID) of occludin and found that tagging of MARCKS-related protein (MRP; also known as MARCKSL1) increased ∼20-fold following IFN/TNF administration. GFP–MRP was focused at the lateral cell membrane and its overexpression potentiated the physiological response of the tight junction barrier to cytokines. However, deletion of MRP did not abrogate the cytokine responses, suggesting that MRP is not required in the occludin-dependent IFN/TNF response. Instead, our results reveal a key role for MRP in epithelial cells in control of multiple actin-based structures, likely by regulation of integrin signaling. Changes in focal adhesion organization and basal actin stress fibers in MRP-knockout (KO) cells were reminiscent of those seen in FAK-KO cells. In addition, we found alterations in cell–cell interactions in MRP-KO cells associated with increased junctional tension, suggesting that MRP may play a role in focal adhesion-adherens junction cross talk. Together, our results are consistent with a key role for MRP in cytoskeletal organization of cell contacts in epithelial cells.
The opercular mouth-opening mechanism of largemouth bass functions as a 3D four-bar linkage with three degrees of freedom
Authors: Olsen Aaron M. , Camp Ariel L. , Brainerd Elizabeth L.
Published: December 2017

The planar, one degree of freedom (1-DoF) four-bar linkage is an important model for understanding the function, performance and evolution of numerous biomechanical systems. One such system is the opercular mechanism in fishes, which is thought to function like a four-bar linkage to depress the lower jaw. While anatomical and behavioral observations suggest some form of mechanical coupling, previous attempts to model the opercular mechanism as a planar four-bar have consistently produced poor model fits relative to observed kinematics. Using newly developed, open source mechanism fitting software, we fitted multiple three-dimensional (3D) four-bar models with varying DoF to in vivo kinematics in largemouth bass to test whether the opercular mechanism functions instead as a 3D four-bar with one or more DoF. We examined link position error, link rotation error and the ratio of output to input link rotation to identify a best-fit model at two different levels of variation: for each feeding strike and across all strikes from the same individual. A 3D, 3-DoF four-bar linkage was the best-fit model for the opercular mechanism, achieving link rotational errors of less than 5%. We also found that the opercular mechanism moves with multiple degrees of freedom at the level of each strike and across multiple strikes. These results suggest that active motor control may be needed to direct the force input to the mechanism by the axial muscles and achieve a particular mouth-opening trajectory. Our results also expand the versatility of four-bar models in simulating biomechanical systems and extend their utility beyond planar or single-DoF systems.
Durophagous biting in sea otters (Enhydra lutris) differs kinematically from raptorial biting of other marine mammals
Authors: Timm-Davis Lori L. , Davis Randall W. , Marshall Christopher D.
Published: December 2017

Sea otters represent an interesting model for studies of mammalian feeding evolution. Although they are marine mammals, sea otters returned to the sea relatively recently and feed at the surface. Therefore, they represent a transitional stage of aquatic adaptation. Currently no feeding performance studies of sea otters have been conducted. The main objective of this study was to characterize the feeding kinematic profile in sea otters. It was hypothesized that sea otters would exhibit a terrestrial feeding behavior and that they forcefully crush hard prey at large gapes. As a result, biting kinematics would be congruent with biting behavior reported for their terrestrial ancestors, thus providing additional evidence that raptorial biting is a conserved behavior even in recently aquatic mammals. Sea otters consistently used a durophagous raptorial biting mode characterized by large gapes, large gape angles, and lack of lateral gape occlusion. The shorter skulls and mandibles of sea otters, along with increased mechanical advantages of the masseter and increased bite force, form a repertoire of functional traits for durophagy. Here we consider durophagy to be a specialized raptorial biting feeding mode. A comparison of feeding kinematics of wild vs captive sea otters showed no significant differences in lateral kinematic profiles and only minor differences in three frontal kinematic profiles, which included a slower maximum opening gape velocity, a slower maximum gape opening velocity, and a slower maximum closing gape velocity in captive sea otters. Data indicate functional innovations for producing large bite forces at wide gape and gape angles.
The force generation process in active muscle is strain-sensitive and endothermic: a temperature-perturbation study
Authors: Ranatunga K. W. , Offer Gerald
Published: December 2017

In experiments on active muscle, we examined the tension decline and its temperature sensitivity at the onset of ramp shortening and at a range of velocities. A segment (∼1.5 mm long) of a skinned muscle fibre isolated from rabbit psoas muscle was held isometric (sarcomere length ∼2.5µm) at 8-9 °C, maximally Ca-activated and a ramp shortening applied. The tension decline with a ramp shortening showed an early decrease of slope (the P1 transition) followed by a slower decrease in slope (the P2 transition) to the steady (isotonic) force. The tension level at the initial P1 transition and the time t1 to that transition decreased as the velocity is increased; the length change L1 to this transition increased with shortening velocity to a steady value of ∼8 nm / half-sarcomere. A small rapid temperature jump (3-4 °C, <0.2 ms, T-jump) applied coincident with the onset of ramp shortening showed force enhancement by T-jump and changed the tension decline markedly. Analyses showed that the rate of T-jump induced force rise increased linearly with increase of shortening velocity. The results provide crucial evidence that the strain-sensitive crossbridge force generation, or a step closely coupled to it, is endothermic.
Pre-mRNA processing includes N6 methylation of adenosine residues that are retained in mRNA exons and the fallacy of “RNA epigenetics”
Authors: Darnell Robert B. , Ke Shengdong , Darnell James E.
Published: December 2017

By using a cell fraction technique that separates chromatin-associated nascent RNA, newly completed nucleoplasmic mRNA and cytoplasmic mRNA, we have shown in a previous study that residues in exons are methylated (m6A) in nascent pre-mRNA and remain methylated in the same exonic residues in nucleoplasmic and cytoplasmic mRNA. Thus, there is no evidence of a substantial degree of demethylation in mRNA exons that would correspond to so-called “epigenetic” demethylation. The turnover rate of mRNA molecules is faster, depending on m6A content in HeLa cell mRNA, suggesting that specification of mRNA stability may be the major role of m6A exon modification. In mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) lacking Mettl3, the major mRNA methylase, the cells continue to grow, making the same mRNAs with unchanged splicing profiles in the absence (>90%) of m6A in mRNA, suggesting no common obligatory role of m6A in splicing. All these data argue strongly against a commonly used “reversible dynamic methylation/demethylation” of mRNA, calling into question the concept of “RNA epigenetics” that parallels the well-established role of dynamic DNA epigenetics.
THE PECULARITIES OF THE USAGE OF INFORMATIONAL AND COMMUNICATIONAL TECHNOLOGIES (ICT) IN THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS OF MEDICAL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Гадаева Виктория , Gadaeva Viktoria
Published: December 2017

The age of computer technologies is achieving a good pace, and already there is no area of human activity where they would not find their application.

In today's reality of the learning process, the issue of modernization is very relevant, but it also stresses the necessity of changing methods and technologies of teaching at all levels, improving weight of those that form practical skills of analysis of information, learning, stimulate independent work of students, shape the experience of responsible choice and responsibility. The necessity arose for a new model of learning based on modern information technologies, implementing the principles of personality-oriented education
Forecasting the Transition of the Economy of the Russian Federation to the Dominance of the Fifth Techno-Economic Paradigm
Authors: Басовский Леонид , Basovskiy Leonid , Аверина Татьяна , Averina Tatyana , Басовская Елена , Basovskaya Elena , Шишкин Андрей , Shishkin Andrey
Published: December 2017

The purpose of the work was to assess the timing of the transition of the Russian economy and the economy of individual regions of Russia to the dominance of the fifth techno-economic paradigm. The contribution of the fifth technical and economic paradigm in the per capita GDP is given. Based on econometric models of economic dynamics, the time of the beginning of the domination of the fifth techno-economic paradigm in the economy of regions is estimated. The economy of individual regions has already passed to the domination of the fifth technoeconomic paradigm. In the economy of a large part of the regions, the transition to the dominance of the fifth techno-economic paradigm can expected many years and decades hence. Estimates of the expected timeframe for the transition to the dominance of the fifth techno-economic paradigm are received, based on the assumption of the preservation of economic development trends in 2001–2015.
Analysis of the World Practice of Applying Standards in Activities to Ensure the Economic Security of Organizations
Authors: Гагарина Галина , Gagarina Galina , Сорокина Наталья , Sorokina Natalia
Published: December 2017

It is shown that the world scientific community has accumulated considerable experience in the field of ensuring the economic security of organizations on the principles of standardization. The results of content analysis of the standards of economic security in Russia and developed foreign countries are presented. It is substantiated that the necessary condition for the participation of economic agents in ensuring national and economic security is the use of international and national business continuity standards. It is shown that the application of the PDCA model contributes to the formation of an integrated system of standardizing processes in the field of economic security, including the development of standards and regulations at the national level and their implementation in the activities of enterprises and organizations. It is substantiated that for the successful implementation of the business continuity management standard in the Russian Federation, it is necessary to adapt its provisions to the practice of the subjects of the national economy. It is proved that the activity aimed at ensuring the economic safety of organizations, which is based on the principles of standardization, encourages all participants of the process to constantly introduce new methods and mechanisms of business continuity, which give the activity a long-term, sustainable character.
Optimizing the Impact of Taxation on the Level of Profitability and Solvency of the Organization
Authors: Гаджиев М. , Gadzhiev M. , Сеферова Д, , Seferova D,
Published: December 2017

The change in the level of solvency and business activity of a taxpayer is a direct factor in reducing the ability of an organization to meet tax obligations. The result of the study of the interrelationship of these indicators is formalized in the form of a system of equations, the consolidated formula of which can be represented as a model for determining the parameters of the tax burden and the paying capacity of the payer under the impact of a change in the aggregate tax rate from its income. In this methodology, by taking an element-by-element account of all the factors of this interaction, the entire range of economic relations that arise between the state and the taxpayer in the process of distributing the taxpayer’s income in the context of the changing fiscal policy of the state is presented, and a number of available approaches to measuring the tax burden and the tax burden are compared.
MICROMECHANISMS OF FERRITE-PEARLITE STEELS FRACTURE UNDER CYCLIC AND IMPACT LOADING
Authors: Maruschak Pavlo , Sorochak Andriy , Brezinova Janette , Guzanova Anna , Yasniy Oleh
Published: December 2017

During operation, the railway axle is exposed to static, cyclic and dynamic loading that is accompanied by influence of corrosive environments. This causes the accumulation of structural and mechanical damages in the material, formation of corrosion and mechanical micro-defects that are potential sites of fatigue crack nucleation and growth. This requires the development of failure analysis methods that allow determining main mechanisms of ferrite-pearlite steels fracture on the micro scale level. The railway axle’s material – the OSL steel – main regularities of temperature influence on fracture mechanisms in ferrite-pearlite steel type are shown. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of fracture surface of Charpy specimens tested at 20°C and -40°C was performed on micro scale level using SEM investigation.
EFFECT OF GRANULOMETRY AND OXYGEN CONTENT ON SMC MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
Authors: Pošković Emir , Franchini Fausto , Grande Marco Actis , Ferraris Luca , Bidulský Róbert
Published: December 2017

The interest around the adoption of Soft Magnetic Composite materials (SMC) in the realization of electric machines, or parts of electric machines, is continuously increasing. The main reason lies on the opportunity to realize magnetic circuits following a 3D design procedure, which is not allowed with the adoption of the traditional lamination sheets. This is not the only reason, as a lot of research is being carried out on the losses distribution in the magnetic material, particularly as function of the frequency. In this paper different iron powders have been analyzed to investigate the impact of the granulometry on the SMC performance; in particular the grain size and the oxygen content have been considered variable parameters. The materials, prepared, compacted and tested in our laboratories, have been characterized to obtain the magnetic characteristic and information about the iron losses.
HYDROMETALLURGICAL METHOD OF SELECTED METALS RECOVERY FROM SEWAGE SLUDGE ASHES
Authors: Stachowicz Feliks , Pawłowska Beata , Wójcik Marta
Published: December 2017

With the increasing number of new residents attached to the sewerage system, the amount of generated sewage sludge is systematically growing. In line with the restriction placed on landfill waste with a calorific value above 6 MJ/kg introduced on 1 January 2016, the most popular sewage sludge utilization methods are thermal processes and agricultural use. In recent years, there has been increased interest in using thermal sewage sludge utilization methods. The major problem associated with sludge combustion is the enormous amount of by-products, particularly ashes. Due to the specific characteristics, it is necessary to develop new sewage sludge ashes utilization methods in line with economic, law and environmental requirements. Sewage sludge ashes are rich in valuable metals, particularly in zinc, copper and iron. As utilization methods of sewage sludge ashes do not guarantee the metals recovery until now, metals are lost irretrievably. This article presents hydrometallurgical methods of metals recovery from sewage sludge ashes with the use of acid leaching. The aforementioned propositions are beneficial from the economical and environmental point of view because they prevent valuable metals from waste. Additionally, the whole undertaking could contribute to the popularization of sustainable development.
Rare health conditions 7: diabulimia, precocious puberty, intersex/hermaphrodite
Authors: Barber Chris
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this series is to briefly highlight a range of rare health conditions. Rare health conditions are those that affect no more and usually less than 1 person in every 2000, and many HCAs and nurses will encounter some of these conditions given the high number of these conditions. This seventh article will briefly explore three of these conditions: diabulimia, precocious puberty, intersex/hermaphrodite.
Person-centred care—a 2017 framework
Authors: Mullen Chris
Published: December 2017

This article describes the context and development of ‘person-centred’ as a fundamental principle underpinning how practitioners work with patients and their families.

Across the UK, person-centred care has become a key component of health policy and system reform. It is increasingly being included in education and training programmes and in role descriptors for practitioners in healthcare.

This article presents a recent person-centred framework from Health Education England, Skills for Health and Skills for Care that aims to support and equip staff and organisations with the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to embed person-centred approaches.
Outpatient induction of labour with prostaglandins: Safety, effectiveness and women's views
Authors: Smith Lisa Kirsten
Published: December 2017

Background

Nearly 28% of women underwent induction of labour in England in 2015-16. Women frequently report delays and poor experiences, and the process can put additional pressure on busy labour wards. Outpatient induction of labour (OPIOL) enables women to return home to await the onset of contractions.

Aim

To explore the research about OPIOL using prostaglandins and to identify gaps in the evidence base. Outcomes will be compared with those induced as inpatients.

Method

An electronic search was conducted to identify relevant studies using keywords. Once the studies had been identified, a narrative synthesis of the findings was conducted.

Findings

Adverse outcomes were rare but studies were not sufficiently powered to detect significant differences between outpatients and inpatients. There were some differences in cost and effectiveness that may be explained by disparities in study design, participant characteristics and operational issues. Time avoided in hospital by outpatients ranged from 7.5–11.76 hours. Satisfaction was generally higher with OPIOL, although some women expressed apprehension about being at home.

Conclusion

While OPIOL with prostaglandins is acceptable to women, it is not clear whether there are significant differences in safety and effectiveness outcomes, due to the low frequency of adverse perinatal events as well as methodological and quality issues of the included studies. Further research is needed to compare outcomes, maternal experiences and cost effectiveness of OPIOL.
Appealing a Nursing and Midwifery Council ‘striking off’ order
Authors: Symon Andrew
Published: December 2017

Fitness to practise hearings are a key part of the Nursing and Midwifery Council's duty to protect the public, but they can be a traumatic time for those under scrunity, as Andrew Symon explains
Needlestick injuries in the aesthetic clinic: risk of exposure and prevention
Authors: Mcenroe Lindsey , Kelly Bev
Published: December 2017

Sharps injuries are one of the main occupational hazards experienced by health professionals. In all health-care settings, there is the risk of occupational exposure to blood-borne infections, from either a needlestick injury or a splash from blood or bodily fluids onto mucous membranes or open wounds. It is important to understand that there are two main areas of consideration following either a needlestick injury or exposure to blood or bodily fluids: the person who is exposed and the source. Careful planning and robust sharp injuries policies need to be in place, especially in aesthetics, where there are a number of practitioners that may be classified as lone workers.
The availability of counterfeit medicines and products continues to be a concern
Authors: Patel Shailesh
Published: December 2017

Competition within the medical aesthetic marketplace is increasing and it is tempting for practitioners to look for low-price products to maximise their profit. However, there are several risks associated with prioritising quantity over quality, one of which is the marketing of counterfeit cosmetic injectables. Shailesh Patel explains why falsified products are problematic and outlines European legislation in this area
Critical performance indicators: how to use them to double your sales and profit
Authors: Geary Michael
Published: December 2017

Running a successful business relies on many internal and external factors, including profit, patient retention and staff performance. Focusing your energies on the growth of your clinic will achieve remarkable results, says Michael Geary, who believes the best way to make improvements is to use key performance indicators (KPIs). Here, he outlines essential weekly and monthly KPIs for you to monitor
Powering down on appliances can yield large savings on utility bills
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: December 2017

It is surprising that many in business are all too keenly aware of the latest developments within their sector, yet take their eye off the ball when it comes to lowering, or at least keeping in check, their energy usage and utility bills. Adam Bernstein explains why investing time on looking at outgoings in this area reduces the impact of unnecessary costs on the aesthetic clinic's bottom line
Putting your stamp on your aesthetic clinic: how to create or change a brand
Authors: Smith Victoria , Wiggins Nancy
Published: December 2017

In a competitive sector like aesthetics, having a brand is crucial to distinguish yourself from other local service providers. Victoria Smith and Nancy Wiggins explain why branding is important and how clinics can ensure their company name is trademarked and protected. They also cover key areas of consideration when establishing or redeveloping a brand, from design and colour scheme to domain names
When can acyclovir be prescribed when treating the lips and oral commissures?
Authors: Hewlett Amanda
Published: December 2017

Herpes simplex virus affects billions of people around the world, and its activation can be triggered by the injection of dermal fillers in and around the lips. Amanda Hewlett looks at whether the aesthetic nurse practioner should be prophylactically prescribing acyclovir to patients with a history of herpes simplex who are considering augmentation in this area
Research roundup: December 2017
Authors: Som Rita
Published: December 2017

In brief

Pain linked with falls, fatigue and depression in older people living unassisted in the community Low-intensity exercise not as good as regular moderate exercise for maintaining health Analysis of medication errors reported by nurses and other healthcare staff supports avoiding rushing and sufficient staffing to minimise errors Cat ownership and sensitisation during childhood
Cellulitis of the lower limbs: Diagnosis and management
Authors: Atkin Leanne
Published: December 2017

Cellulitis is an inflammatory condition of the skin caused by bacterial infection and affects the dermis and subcutaneous tissues ( Lee and Levell, 2016 ). It frequently occurs on the lower limb, and admission to hospital is common. Acute lower limb cellulitis is a potentially serious condition ( Halpern et al, 2008 ); it typically presents with rubor or erythema, which is warm to touch and often associated with a degree of localised oedema. However, it is frequently misdiagnosed because identification is based solely on clinical findings. There are several other common conditions that mimic the symptoms of cellulitis. This article aims to provide information relating to the clinical symptoms and management of lower limb cellulitis ensuring practitioners are able to make an accurate diagnosis resulting in the establishment of effective treatment plans.
Arthroscopic remplissage
Authors: Morsy Mohamed G.
Published: December 2017

Posterolateral humeral head defects can be large and engage on the anterior glenoid, and they usually contribute to anterior shoulder instability in 40% to 90% of cases. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results of the largest series of patients who underwent arthroscopic remplissage with Bankart repair for recurrent anterior shoulder instability due to associated Bankart lesions, with large and engaging (> 25% involvement) humeral Hill-Sachs defects (HSDs). A total of 51 patients underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with remplissage technique for the treatment of recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability with large and medial HSDs. Pre-operative imaging in all patients identified a Bankart lesion with an associated HSD that involved > 25% of the humeral head. The Rowe score was used to assess the patients clinically. A total of 46 patients were male. The mean age of the patients was 28.7 years (18 to 43). The mean follow-up period was 31 months (20 to 39). At the final follow-up, three patients reported recurrence of instability (two dislocations and one subluxation). The mean Rowe score improved to 95.4 points (function, 45.5 of 50; stability, 26.4 of 30; motion, 8 of 10; pain, 8 of 10). The arthroscopic remplissage technique with Bankart repair gave satisfactory results and is still considered to be an effective, safe and reliable procedure for treatment of glenohumeral instability in cases with large and medial HSDs.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2017;2:478–483. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160070
Effect of processing methods on nutrient and tannin content of tamarind seeds
Authors: LY JOHANIS , SJOFJAN OSFAR , DJUNAIDI IRFAN H. , SUYADI SUYADI
Published: December 2017

Ly J, Sjofjan O, Djunaidi IH, Suyadi.2017. Effect of processing methods on nutrient and tannin content of tamarind seeds. Trop Drylands 1: 78-82.The study aimed at evaluating the nutrient content and effect of physical processing methods on nutrient and tannin content of Indonesia’s tamarind seeds. There were four treatments allotted in this experiment following a completely randomized design: sun-dried seeds (T0), dry fried/roasted seeds (T1), moistening12 hours (T2) and 24 hours (T3) ground dry fried/roasted tamarind seeds kernel. Dry frying increased significantly (P<0.05) CP, EAA, and NEAA but reduced (P<0.05) CF; fat, SAFA, UFA and tannin contents of sun-dried tamarind seeds. Moistening 12-24 hours improved significantly (P<0.5) CP, SAFA, UFA; reduced (P<0.5) fat; CF; EAA, NEAA; and released 7-8.5% additional tannin contents of ground dry fried seeds kernel. The study highlighted that the Indonesia’s semiarid region tamarind seeds contain comprehensive nutrients and tannin compound. Dry frying, dehusked tamarind seeds and grinding followed by moistening the ground dry fried seeds’ kernel could eliminate tannin compound and improve the nutrient content of tamarind seeds kernel.
Online Orchestra: Connecting remote communities through music
Authors: Rofe Michael , Murray Samuel , Parker Will
Published: December 2017

Online Orchestra is a telematic performance project, aimed at enabling young and amateur musicians in geographically remote locations to make music together over the Internet. This article describes the contexts out of which the project emerged, including an overview of the benefits of ensemble performance, and a survey of precedent telematic performance projects. It goes on to describe how the starting premises of Online Orchestra respond to these contexts and ends with a summary of Online Orchestra’s approach, and its key findings. The article describes in particular how many recent telematic performance projects rely on specialist networks and equipment, and that alternative design solutions are necessary, and possible, in order to reach young and amateur musicians in their own remote locations.
Nigerian foreign policy approach towards ECOWAS
Authors: Omo-ogbebor Dennis Osasuyi
Published: December 2017

The foreign policy of a state actor towards inter-governmental organizations has become a predominant feature in the contemporary world order, and Nigeria is an active member of the international community. Its foreign policy towards ECOWAS since its formation in 1975 is examined based on its contributions to the regional organization. The objectives of this article are; to explain the historical background of Nigerian foreign policy after gaining independence from Great Britain in 1960; to analyze Nigerian foreign policy approach towards ECOWAS at the early stage of the organization and, finally, to evaluate Nigerian foreign policy in the direction of ECOWAS after its return to democratic rule in 1999. The application of the content analytical method is to realize the objectives set out in the article to allow the author gives a basic conclusion. Therefore, the evolving geopolitics of the world has shown that foreign policy is an effective mechanism in projecting a country’s image and policy direction abroad in modern international relations system.
THE PERFORMANCE OF LAND USE CHANGE CAUSATIVE FACTOR ON LANDSLIDE SUSCEPTIBILITY MAP IN UPPER UJUNG-LOE WATERSHEDS SOUTH SULAWESI, INDONESIA
Authors: Soma Andang Suryana , Kubota Tetsuya
Published: December 2017

The study aims to develop and apply land use change (LUC) performance on landslide susceptibility map using frequency ratio (FR), and Logistic regression (LR) method in a geographic information system. In the study area, Upper Ujung-loe Watersheds area of Indonesia, landslides were detected using field survey and air photography from time series data image of Google Earth Pro from 2012 to 2016 and LUC from 2004 to 2011. Landslide susceptibility map (LSM) was constructed using FR and LR with nine causative factors. The result indicated that LUC affect the production of LSM. Validation of landslide susceptibility was carried out in this study at both with and without LUC causative factors. First, performances of each landslide model were tested using AUC curve for success and predictive rate. The highest value of predictive rate at with LUC in both FR and LR method were 83.4 % and 85.2 %, respectively. In the second stage, the ratio of landslides falling on high to a very high class of susceptibility was obtained, which indicates the level of accuracy of the method.LR method with LUC had the highest accuracy of 80.24 %. Taken together, the results suggested that changing the vegetation to another landscape causes slopes unstable and increases probability to landslide occurrence.
Socratic Euporia and Aporia in the Lysis
Authors: Yonezawa Shigeru
Published: December 2017

In theLysisSocrates deals with the problem of what is a friend and what is friendship. After giving an introduction and a synopsis of theLysisin section one, I explain, in section two, Socrates’ view that a true friend is “what is akin” or “what is belonging to oneself” (oikeion) which is what is taken from oneself and discovered in another person. When this happens among two persons, they become friends to each other. The content of what is akin is either a good characteristic or ways or form of the soul. Friendship is the desire for what is akin. In section three I show that Socrates remains inaporiawhile he faces several problems. Unless he is able to answer such problems, he will not be truly confident about what is a friend. In section four I deal with and refute Penner’s and Rowe’s view that a true friend means wisdom. In section five I examine the view of friendship which occurs among people who share common deficit. As a conclusion, in section six, I reflect on the significance of my interpretation and the role of theLysisin Plato’s philosophy.