bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE HYDRODYNAMIC STABILITY OF GASEOUS COSMIC FILAMENTS
Authors: Birnboim Yuval , Padnos Dan , Zinger Elad
Published: November 2016

Virial shocks at the edges of cosmic-web structures are a clear prediction of standard structure formation theories. We derive a criterion for the stability of the post-shock gas and of the virial shock itself in spherical, filamentary, and planar infall geometries. When gas cooling is important, we find that shocks become unstable, and gas flows uninterrupted toward the center of the respective halo, filament, or sheet. For filaments, we impose this criterion on self-similar infall solutions. We find that instability is expected for filament masses between 1011 and 1013

Mpc−1. Using a simplified toy model, we then show that these filaments will likely feed halos with 1010
M
⊙ ≲ M
halo ≲ 1013
M
⊙ at redshift z = 3, as well as 1012
M
⊙ ≲ M
halo ≲ 1015
M
⊙ at z = 0. The instability will affect the survivability of the filaments as they penetrate gaseous halos in a non-trivial way. Additionally, smaller halos accreting onto non-stable filaments will not be subject to ram pressure inside the filaments. The instreaming gas will continue toward the center and stop either once its angular momentum balances the gravitational attraction, or when its density becomes so high that it becomes self-shielded to radiation.
Circulations et ancrage du survey geddesien dans l’urbanisme espagnol
Authors: Fernández Águeda Beatriz , Sánchez Javier Ruiz
Published: November 2016

Cet article vise à évaluer l’influence durable du survey de Patrick Geddes sur l’urbanisme espagnol. Retracer les réseaux d’échanges et les modalités de circulations permettra de mettre en évidence, tout d’abord, la transformation d’une démarche scientifique en outil technique et, enfin, l’ancrage de ce dispositif dans la culture urbanistique espagnole. La systématisation de l’enquête geddesienne par les urbanistes anglais et l’importante diffusion des principes du town planning contribuent à la réalisation, en 1929, de la première enquête préalable en Espagne, l’« Information de la ville de Madrid ». Celle-ci, adaptation locale d’un modèle international, deviendra un modèle pour les plans d’aménagement espagnols ultérieurs. L’objectif de cet article est ainsi de montrer combien les traces de cette évolution sont ancrées dans la culture urbanistique espagnole où les plans continuent à lier la légitimité de l’action aux études préalables.
Mémoire du futur, from old roots to new shoots. Patrick Geddes in India (1914-1924)
Authors: Torres Astaburuaga Adrián , Chaudier Éva , Tixier Nicolas
Published: November 2016

Au début du xx e  siècle, le botaniste et biologiste écossais, Patrick Geddes (1854-1932) développe une pensée et une pratique du projet urbain et du territoire qui participe d’un mouvement que l’on pourrait rétrospectivement nommer de proto-écologiste, en posant que l’écologie doit être comprise à la fois de façon environnementale, sociale et économique. Geddes travaillait à une renaturalisation de la ville et de la culture en dépassant ce qui a souvent présidé au développement urbain, à savoir, l’antagonisme entre la géographie locale et la construction humaine. Chaque site avec son histoire naturelle et humaine est à la base de ses propositions d’évolution. Il arpente la ville pour la cartographier et la réciter. Il prend en compte le sensible et recueille la parole habitante. Il inventorie, analyse les potentialités du déjà-là caché ou visible pour comprendre la ville et son lien direct avec un milieu naturel préanthropique, lien qui, lorsqu’il se tisse avec les cultures habitantes, permet de caractériser ses ambiances avec leurs histoires et leurs évolutions. Geddes dans ses travaux indiens établit des continuités originales entre ce qui fait patrimoine et ce qui fait projet.
Les Urban Lifestyle Points  : le marketing au service de l’aménagement temporaire d’espaces publics ?
Authors: Lago Noémie
Published: November 2016

Les Urban Lifestyle Points ( ulp ) sont des aménagements temporaires d’espaces publics à l’aide de mobiliers amovibles, avec des budgets très limités et réalisés en quelques mois. Ils ont pour objectif d’améliorer l’attractivité des espaces. Le concept d’ ulp est basé sur le croisement entre des techniques venant du marketing et de l’urbanisme. Quelles sont les conséquences de cette interdisciplinarité sur la méthode de conception et sur les espaces aménagés en ulp  ? Afin de répondre à cette question, nous avons observé la conception de deux ulp à Liège (Belgique) du lancement du projet jusqu’à la réalisation des espaces et leur gestion pendant quelques mois. Cela nous a permis d’identifier des forces et des faiblesses de la méthode de conception des ulp , et d’esquisser quelques pistes d’amélioration. Nous avons également souligné les limites actuelles de l’utilisation des ulp comme dispositif d’animation des espaces publics à l’échelle d’une ville.
The practice of karate and the control of aggressiveness in prison
Authors: Frigout Jérôme , Laporte Renaud , Collard Luc , Le Bris Pauline
Published: November 2016

À la maison d’arrêt de Fresnes, des détenus pratiquent le karaté. Si les bienfaits du sport en prison sont un principe admis, qu’en est-il des effets pédagogiques de la pratique d’un sport de combat en milieu carcéral ? L’analyse des conduites motrices agressives en karaté, cherche à vérifier si cette pratique apporte une régulation des affects, en comparant 188 observations réalisées en milieu associatif et 77 en détention. Ces observations discriminent l’agressivité licite, sur une échelle de valeurs graduées de -2 à 2 (sur la base d’indicateurs comportementaux objectifs annonciateurs du degré d’agressivité). Bousculant des idées reçues, les résultats révèlent que les karatékas associatifs (KA) sont plus agressifs – sur le plan « praxique » (1,71, écart-type (é-t) = 0,58) et « kinésique » (1,42, é-t = 0,81) – que les karatékas détenus (KD) – respectivement 0,86, é-t = 1,17 et 0,3, é-t = 1,08. De leur côté, les processus de civilité s’expriment sur des moyennes de -2 pour les KA contre - 0,81 pour les KD. Le karaté peut-il alors avoir une place en prison comme activité sportive ? La réponse semble affirmative. Sous réserve de processus ré-éducatif global, cette activité ne pouvant cependant garantir par elle-même solutionner le problème de la réinsertion.
Agressivité, domination et exclusion en EPS : étude de cas d’une école publique espagnole
Authors: Franco Flavia , Besombes Nicolas
Published: November 2016

La thématique de la violence à l’école est récurrente dans les recherches en sciences sociales. En EPS, les caractéristiques des jeux sportifs influencent la dynamique relationnelle des élèves pendant les cours. L’objectif de l’article est de questionner l’influence des pratiques physiques proposées en EPS sur les conflits observés au sein d’une école publique espagnole. Nous avons observé les cours d’EPS d’une classe de 6 e  année de Primaire pendant l’année 2009/2010. D’un côté, nous avons détecté au cours de nos observations la présence de différentes formes de violence. De l’autre, nous avons élaboré des fiches d’analyse de la logique interne des 242 situations motrices proposées, afin d’identifier les pourcentages de temps de pratique relatifs de ces différentes situations. Les résultats montrent que l’EPS espagnole reproduit le modèle compétitif des sports collectifs puisque prédominent les duels symétriques (39,7 %) avec système de score (71 %). La pratique systématique de ces activités semble favoriser l’agressivité des élèves, à travers d’une part la domination des uns, et d’autre part l’exclusion et la frustration des autres. Les conflits observés seraient alors le reflet de ces duels. La victoire, en étant l’objectif principal, fait apparaître des phénomènes de triche, des disputes, des gestèmes agressifs et l’exclusion des jeunes filles tout en renforçant la domination d’une équipe sur l’autre.
Reportères de guerre
Authors: Ruellan Denis
Published: November 2016

Cette étude interroge l’effectivité de la féminisation du reportage journalistique sur les terrains de conflits, la résistance du mythe de la masculinité de cette activité, la persistance de rôles différenciés et des assignations genrées, et le solde des engagements et des bénéfices en termes de carrières professionnelle et personnelle. S’il apparaît que désormais les reporters de guerre sont souvent des femmes, la dynamique du genre, processus de différenciation et de hiérarchisation des identités, demeure à l’œuvre, pénalisant les femmes. Cette étude, appuyée sur une connaissance historique du journalisme et du reportage, est issue d’une enquête par entretien auprès d’une vingtaine de reporters en France.
En torno a la realidad humana en Xavier Zubiri
Authors: Espinoza Lolas Ricardo , Soto García Pamela
Published: November 2016

Este artículo indaga acerca del carácter de la realidad humana y su relación al concepto de persona en el pensamiento de Xavier Zubiri (1898-1983). La metodología de análisis consiste en revisar el carácter de la realidad humana desde la noología, esto es, la última etapa de la obra del autor, a fin de presentar al hombre desde su dimensión eminentemente física y siempre encarnada de la realidad humana, permitiendo repensar desde una perspectiva física el desarrollo individual, así como también, el despliegue social e histórico del ser humano.
Brouwer y Zubiri. La eficacia del intuicionismo lógico en el logos y la razón sentientes
Authors: Ramírez Voss Jesús
Published: November 2016

Este artículo trata de Zubiri y la Lógica. ¿Qué concepción de la Lógica fue más afín con su formación y con sus intereses como filósofo? Me pregunto por qué Zubiri desde bien joven se decidió por el intuicionismo de Poincare, de Brouwer y en qué medida contribuyeron ambos en el desarrollo de su filosofía centrada en la descripción de lo real en la inteligencia sentiente. Presento un asunto original y desatendido hasta ahora en la investigación sobre este pensador español contemporáneo.
Zubiri et alii sobre la consciencia
Authors: Solari Enzo
Published: November 2016

En la reciente literatura científica y filosófica sobre la consciencia no siempre se describe ni analiza adecuadamente cuál es esa consciencia fenoménica que se desea explicar. De ahí que se argumente, contra ciertas aproximaciones de la neurociencia y la filosofía analítica, que el hecho de la consciencia necesita previamente de una mejor descripción fenomenológica y de una más ajustada analítica conceptual.
Attenuation of quorum sensing-regulated behaviour by Tinospora cordifolia extract & identification of its active constituents
Authors: Gala Viraj C. , John Nithya R. , Bhagwat Ashok M. , Datar Ajit G. , Kharkar Prashant S. , Desai Krutika B.
Published: November 2016

Background & objectives:

The pathogenicity of the nosocomial pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii is regulated by their quorum sensing (QS) systems. The objective of the present study was to examine the effect of the cold ethyl acetate extract of Tinospora cordifolia stem on virulence and biofilm development in the wild type and clinical strains of P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii. The study was further aimed to identify the probable active constituents in the plant extract.

Methods:

P. aeruginosa virulence factors viz., LasA protease, LasB elastase and pyocyanin production were analyzed spectrophotometrically. Biofilm formation was studied using crystal violet staining-microtitre plate assay. The plant extract was fractionated using silica gel column chromatography and the most active fraction was derivatized using silylation and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In silico testing of the molecules identified in GC-MS was performed, for binding to the P. aeruginosa LasI and LasR proteins, to predict the QS inhibitory molecules.

Results:

The plant extract inhibited three major virulence factors in P. aeruginosa; it exhibited enhanced biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa while decreased biofilm development in A. baumannii. The most active fraction obtained from column chromatography, exhibited suppression of virulence as well as biofilm in both the organisms. Docking scores were calculated for all the molecules identified in GC-MS, and high docking scores were obtained for 2,3,4-triacetyloxybutyl acetate, methyl 16-methyl heptadecanoate, 2-(5-ethenyl-5-methyloxolan-2-yl)propan-2-ol, methyl hexadecanoate and 2-methoxy-4-vinyl phenol.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The compounds showing high docking scores could probably be the QS inhibitors. These molecules can be screened further for the development of new anti-infective drugs.
Финслерово обобщение метрики Тамма
Authors: Panzhenskii Vladimir Ivanovich , Surina Ol'ga Petrovna
Published: November 2016

Изучаются многообразия финслерова типа, касательные (псевдо)римановы пространства которых инвариантны относительно (псевдо)ортогональной группы. Строится связность Картана, исследуются геодезические и экстремали, а также движения. Установлено, что если метрический тензор пространства является однородным тензором нулевой степени по координатам касательного вектора, то метрика касательного пространства реализуется на конусе вращения. Описано строение геодезических на конусе как траекторий движения свободной частицы в центральном поле.
Алгебро-геометрические структуры аналитических уравнений с частными производными
Authors: Kaptsov Oleg Viktorovich
Published: November 2016

Изучается проблема совместности нелинейных уравнений с частными производными. Вводится алгебра сходящихся степенных рядов, модуль дифференцирований этой алгебры и модуль пфаффовых форм. Системы дифференциальных уравнений задаются степенными рядами на пространстве бесконечных джетов. Развивается техника исследования совместности дифференциальных систем, похожая на метод базисов Гребнера. Доказано, что совместные системы при некоторых предположениях порождают бесконечномерные многообразия.
Старшие аналоги условия унитарности для квантовых $R$-матриц
Authors: Zotov Andrei Vladimirovich
Published: November 2016

Выведено семейство тождеств $n$-го порядка для квантовых $R$-матриц типа Бакстера-Белавина в фундаментальном представлении. Набор тождеств включает условие унитарности как простейший случай (при $n=2$). Тождество третьего порядка обеспечивает коммутативность связностей Книжника-Замолодчикова-Бернара. С другой стороны, оно же приводит к $R$-матричнозначным парам Лакса для классических интегрируемых систем типа Калоджеро. При выводе тождеств используется интерпретация квантовой $R$-матрицы как матричного обобщения функции Кронекера. Предложено доказательство тождеств старшего порядка для функций Кронекера, которое затем естественно обобщается на тождества для $R$-матриц.
Квантование моделей массивных неабелевых калибровочных полей со спонтанно нарушенной симметрией вне рамок теории возмущений
Authors: Slavnov Andrei Alekseevich
Published: November 2016

Предложен новый метод однозначного квантования моделей массивных неабелевых калибровочных полей со спонтанно нарушенной симметрией, применимый вне рамок теории возмущений по константе связи.
Улучшенный метод изображений для голографического описания конических дефектов
Authors: Aref'eva Irina Yaroslavna , Khramtsov Mikhail Alexandrovich , Tikhanovskaya Mariya Dmitrievna
Published: November 2016

Геодезическое предписание в голографическом подходе в лоренцевой сигнатуре применимо только для геодезических, соединяющих пространственноподобно разделенные точки на границе, поскольку не существует времениподобных геодезических, выходящих на границу. Также, вообще говоря, не существует прямого аналитического продолжения для произвольной фоновой метрики, такой как метрика движущейся частицы в пространстве AdS . Предлагается улучшенный метод изображений для двухточечной корреляционной функции, применимый на произвольном временном интервале, когда пространство-время деформировано точечными частицами. Показано, что такое предписание находится в согласии с тем случаем, когда существует аналитическое продолжение, а также с ранее использованным предписанием для квазигеодезических. Также обсуждаются некоторые другие приложения улучшенного метода изображений: голографическая
энтропия запутанности и случай многих частиц в пространстве AdS$_3$.
Seasonal variability of stratospheric methane: implications for constraining tropospheric methane budgets using total column observations
Authors: Saad Katherine M. , Wunch Debra , Deutscher Nicholas M. , Griffith David W. T. , Hase Frank , De Mazière Martine , Notholt Justus , Pollard David F. , Roehl Coleen M. , Schneider Matthias , Sussmann Ralf , Warneke Thorsten , Wennberg Paul O.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Global and regional methane budgets are markedly uncertain. Conventionally, estimates of methane sources are derived by bridging emissions inventories with atmospheric observations employing chemical transport models. The accuracy of this approach requires correctly simulating advection and chemical loss such that modeled methane concentrations scale with surface fluxes. When total column measurements are assimilated into this framework, modeled stratospheric methane introduces additional potential for error. To evaluate the impact of such errors, we compare Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) and GEOS-Chem total and tropospheric column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of methane. We find that the model's stratospheric contribution to the total column is insensitive to perturbations to the seasonality or distribution of tropospheric emissions or loss. In the Northern Hemisphere, we identify disagreement between the measured and modeled stratospheric contribution, which increases as the tropopause altitude decreases, and a temporal phase lag in the model's tropospheric seasonality driven by transport errors. Within the context of GEOS-Chem, we find that the errors in tropospheric advection partially compensate for the stratospheric methane errors, masking inconsistencies between the modeled and measured tropospheric methane. These seasonally varying errors alias into source attributions resulting from model inversions. In particular, we suggest that the tropospheric phase lag error leads to large misdiagnoses of wetland emissions in the high latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere.
Remote sensing of plant trait responses to field-based plant-soil feedback using
UAV-based optical sensors
Authors: van der Meij Bob , Kooistra Lammert , Suomalainen Juha , Barel Janna M. , De Deyn Gerlinde B.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Plant responses to biotic and abiotic legacies left in soil by preceding plants is known as plant-soil feedback (PSF). PSF is an important mechanism to explain plant community dynamics and plant performance in natural and agricultural systems. However, most PSF studies are short-term and small-scale due to practical constraints for field scale quantification of PSF effects, yet field experiments are warranted to asses actual PSF effects under less controlled conditions. Here we used Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-based optical sensors to test whether PSF effects on plant traits can be quantified remotely. We established a randomized agro-ecological field experiment in which six different cover crop species and species combinations from three different plant families (Poaceae, Fabaceae, Brassicaceae) were grown. The feedback effects on plant traits were tested in oat (Avena sativa) by quantifying the cover crop legacy effects on key plant traits: height, fresh biomass, nitrogen content and leaf chlorophyll content. Prior to destructive sampling, hyperspectral data was acquired and used for calibration and independent validation of regression models to retrieve plant traits from optical data. Subsequently, for each trait the model with highest precision and accuracy was selected. We used the hyperspectral analyses to predict the directly measured plant height (RMSE= 5.12 cm, R2= 0.79), chlorophyll content (RMSE= 0.11 g m−2, R2= 0.80), N-content (RMSE= 1.94 g m−2, R2= 0.68), and fresh biomass (RMSE= 0.72 kg m−2, R2= 0.56). Overall the PSF effects of the different cover crop treatments based on the remote sensing data matched the results based on in situ measurements. The average oat canopy was tallest and its leaf chlorophyll content highest in response to legacy of Vicia sativa monocultures (100 cm, 0.95 g m−2, respectively) and in mixture with Raphanus sativus (100 cm, 1.09 g m−2, respectively), while the lowest values (76 cm, 0.41 g m−2, respectively) were found in response to legacy of Lolium perenne monoculture, and intermediate responses to the legacy of the other treatments. We show that PSF effects in the field occur and alter several important plant traits that can be sensed remotely and quantified in a non-destructive way using UAV-based optical sensors; these can be repeated over the growing season to increase temporal resolution. Remote sensing thereby offers great potential for studying PSF effects at field scale and relevant spatial-temporal resolutions which will facilitate the elucidation of the underlying mechanisms.
Bias Correction of Satellite-Based Rainfall Estimates for Modeling Flash Floods in Semi-Arid regions: Application to Karpuz River, Turkey
Authors: Saber Mohamed , Yilmaz Koray
Published: November 2016

Abstract. This study investigates the utility of gauge-corrected satellite-based rainfall estimates in simulating flash floods at Karpuz River - a semi-arid basin in Turkey. Global Satellite Mapping of Precipitation (GSMaP) product was evaluated with the rain gauge network at monthly and daily time-scales considering various time periods and rainfall rate thresholds. Statistical analysis indicated that GSMaP shows acceptable linear correlation coefficient with rain gauges however suffers from significant underestimation bias. A rainfall rate threshold of 1 mm/month was the best choice to improve the match between GSMaP and rain gauges implying that appropriate threshold selection is critically important for the bias correction. Multiplicative bias correction was applied to GSMaP data using the bias factors calculated between GSMaP and observed rainfall. Hydrological River Basin Environmental Assessment Model (Hydro-BEAM) was used to simulate flash floods at the hourly time scale driven by the corrected GSMaP rainfall data. The model parameters were calibrated for flash flood events during October-December 2007 and then validated for flash flood events during October-December 2009. The results show that the simulated surface runoff hydrographs reasonably coincide with the observed hydrographs.
The Analysis of External Debt Sustainability by Periodic Unit Root Test with Structural Break: The Case of Turkey
Authors: Goktas Ozlem , Hepsag Aycan
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study is to investigate external debt sustainability using the periodic unit root
rest with structural break which is introduced by Boswijk and Franses (1995) and then
developed by Evans (2006). In order to test the hypothesis, we use quarterly Turkish data
measuring the ratio of external debt stock to GDP that covers the period from the first quarter
of 1990 to the third quarter of 2012. The empirical results support that the ratio of external
debt stock to GDP has the periodic behavior under structural change and follows a
nonstationary periodic process with structural break. According to the empirical findings, it is
argued that the external debt is unsustainable in Turkey.
Histological Changes of the Acetabular Labrum in Coxarthrosis: Labral Degeneration and Repair
Authors: Domzalski Marcin E. , Synder Marek , Karauda Anna , Papierz Wielislaw
Published: November 2016

Introduction

The current study was designed to describe types of histological changes within the acetabular labrum in the advanced stages of coxarthrosis, in patients requiring total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

77 consecutive patients without systemic disorders or prior hip surgery, scheduled for THA with 3 types of coxarthrosis: avascular necrosis (AVN), idiopathic, and dysplastic coxarthrosis were analysed. Patient's data: age, gender, side of the involvement, duration of the symptoms were recorded, and standard anteroposterior (AP) radiographic views of the pelvis were obtained. During THA procedure the acetabular labrum was harvested and examined histologically and immunohistochemically. The mean chondrocytes number and density were calculated using morphometric techniques.

Results

In 77 analysed acetabular labra the following histological changes were found: heterogenic matrix, foci of granular matrix breakdown, pseudocysts, intralabral c alcifications, chondrocyte apoptosis, inflammatory reaction with lymphocytes infiltration and macrophages infiltration and vascular proliferation with 2 stages of maturation: endothelial cell formation and fully formed blood vessels. The average chondrocytes density was 478 cells in 1 mm2 and significantly decreased with age.

Conclusions

The acetabular labrum is an important part of the process of degeneration of the hip in osteoarthritis (OA). Vascular formation and cellular infiltration found in the damaged fibrocartilage may represent a labral response to degenerative changes.
High Cut-Off Hemofiltration versus Standard Hemofiltration: Effect on Plasma Cytokines
Authors: Atari Rafidah , Peck Leah , Visvanathan Kumar , Skinner Narelle , Eastwood Glenn , Bellomo Rinaldo , Storr Markus , Goehl Hermann
Published: November 2016

Purpose

To study the effects of continuous veno-venous hemofiltration (CVVH) with high cut-off filters (CVVH-HCO) on plasma cytokine levels, sieving coefficient and clearance compared to CVVH using standard filters (CVVH-Std) in a nested cohort within a double-blind randomized controlled trial in severe acute kidney injury (AKI) patients.

Methods

We measured plasma and post-filter levels of IL-6, TNF-alpha, IL-8, IL-1 beta, RANTES, IL-10, IFN-gamma and IFN-alpha in both study groups. We also measured cytokine levels in the ultrafiltrate and calculated sieving coefficients and clearances.

Results

By 72 hours of treatment, IL-6 had decreased during both treatments (p = 0.009 and 0.005 respectively). In contrast, IL-10 had decreased with CVVH-Std (p = 0.03) but not CVVH-HCO (p = 0.135). None of the other cytokines showed changes over time. There were also no significant between group differences in plasma levels for each cytokine over the 72-hour treatment period. For all cytokines combined, however, the median sieving coefficient was higher for CVVH-HCO (0.31 vs. 0.16; p = 0.042) as was the mass removal rate by ultrafiltration (p = 0.027). While overall combined cytokine levels had fallen to 62.2% of baseline at 72 hours for CVVH-HCO (p<0.0001) and to 75.9% of baseline with CVVH-Std (p = 0.008) there were no between group differences.

Conclusions

CVVH-HCO achieved greater combined sieving coefficient and mass removal rate by ultrafiltration for a group of key cytokines than CVVH-Std. However, this effect did not differentially lower their plasma level over the first 72 hours. Our study does not support the use of CVVH-HCO to lower cytokines in critically ill patients with AKI.
Clinicopathological Significance of Loss of p27Kip1 Expression in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Kim Nae Yu , Kim Jin Hwa , Pyo Jung-Soo , Cho Won Jin
Published: November 2016

Introduction

A meta-analysis was done to investigate the clinicopathological significance of the loss of p27kip1 expression in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Methods

The meta-analysis involving 17 studies included 1,652 PTC and 328 benign cases. The rate of p27kip1 expression loss in PTC and benign lesions, and the correlations between p27kip1 expression loss and clinicopathological characteristics of PTC were determined.

Results

The estimated rate of p27kip1 expression loss was 0.557 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.443-0.665) and 0.139 (95% CI 0.062-0.283) in PTC and benign lesions, respectively. In subgroup analysis, the rates of p27kip1 expression loss were 0.683, 0.393, and 0.414 in the classical variant, follicular variant, and papillary thyroid microcarcinoma, respectively. Loss of p27kip1 expression was significantly correlated with lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis (odds ratio 3.559, 95% CI 1.146-11.056 and 4.735, 95% CI 1.322-16.960, respectively). Extrathyroidal extension was correlated with loss of p27kip1 expression, but not in a statistically significant way (p = 0.051). There were no significant correlations between loss of p27kip1 expression and sex, tumor size, BRAFV600E mutation, and tumor multifocality.

Conclusions

Loss of p27kip1 expression is frequently found in PTC compared with benign lesions and normal thyroid tissue. When present in PTC, it is correlated with aggressive tumor behavior.
Limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis: the unfairly neglected subset
Authors: Allanore Yannick
Published: November 2016

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease and a disabling condition that reduces life expectancy. Disease heterogeneity is a hallmark of SSc and classification has been hard to establish. Moreover, within the SSc spectrum, subsetting according to the extent of skin involvement has been universally accepted and is used both for research purposes but also for patient care. Therefore, limited cutaneous (lcSSc) and diffuse cutaneous (dcSSc), with different severity and survival, have been recognized for several years as distinct subsets. Any SSc research project using human material takes into account the cutaneous subsets but it is striking to see that the dcSSc subset has been the subject of the very large majority of the research projects so far. This editorial indicates the comparative epidemiology of the two cutaneous subsets and summarizes the main results coming from the recent registries about the respective outcomes of the patients. The data demonstrate the predominance of the lcSSc subset and challenge some ideas that could suggest that the lcSSc subset might be a benign condition. Some clues are also provided regarding the future possibility to enroll more patients having the lc subset in clinical trials and potential shared outcome measures.
Guidance markers increase the accuracy of simulated ultrasound-guided vascular access: an observational cohort study in a phantom
Authors: Thorn Sofie , Aagaard Hansen Marlene , Sloth Erik , Knudsen Lars
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Peripheral ultrasound (US)-guided vascular access is gaining popularity. Though studies have demonstrated that US-guided vascular access has several advantages, the procedure is challenging to even the most experienced operator. The aim of this observational cohort study was to investigate whether adding guidance markers on a US system would increase the accuracy of US-guided needle tip placement compared to no guidance markers.

Methods

A total of 18 physicians and 12 nurses familiar with US-guided vascular access volunteered to participate. Two identical US systems were used. System A was as manufactured. System B included three guide markers drawn on the transducer and screen. The participants performed six needle insertions in a gelatin phantom with three imbedded targets. First participants used US system A and then US system B. Primary endpoint was horizontal distance between needle tip and target. Secondary endpoint was participant's subjective feeling of advantage of the guidance markers measured on a Likert scale.

Results

Guidance markers on the US system significantly increased the accuracy of needle placement on all three targets individually (p = 0.00) and on overall placement, (inter-quartile range 3.21 mm vs. 0.49 mm, p = 0.00). In addition, the use of guidance markers eliminated the difference in accuracy between physicians and nurses, respectively. All participants evaluated the guidance markers to be helpful during the needle insertions.

Conclusions

Adding guidance markers to the US system significantly increased the accuracy of needle placement in the horizontal plane during simulated US-guided vascular access using a phantom.
Elements of dialysis nursing practice associated with successful cannulation: result of an international survey
Authors: Parisotto Maria Teresa , Pelliccia Francesco , Grassmann Aileen , Marcelli Daniele
Published: November 2016

Background/aim

Vascular access (VA) cannulation is an essential skill for dialysis nurses: failure to correctly repeat this operation daily may result in serious complications for the patients. This study investigates if different aspects of arteriovenous fistula and graft cannulation have an effect on the development of acute access complications, which may affect the VA survival.

Methods

In April 2009 a cross-sectional survey was conducted in 171 dialysis units located in Europe, the Middle East and Africa to collect details on VA cannulation practices. Information on cannulation retrieved from the survey comprised fistula type and location, cannulation technique, needle size, use of disinfectants and of local anaesthetics, application of arm compression at the time of cannulation, needle and bevel direction, needle rotation, and needle fixation. Five categories of complications were investigated: multiple-cannulation, infiltration, haematoma, haemorrhage and unknown.

Results

There were 10,807 cannulation procedures evaluated in the same number of patients. Of these, 367 showed some kind of complication, the most frequent (33.8%) being the need for multiple-cannulation. The following were associated with a significantly higher odds ratio for occurrence of an acute complication: prescription of back-eye needles, use of rope-ladder cannulation technique, insertion of venous needle as first needle, and rotation of the arterial needle. Use of 16-17-gauge needles was also significantly associated with complications, but this possibly reflects poor quality of the VA.

Conclusions

The risk of an acute VA complication could be reduced with appropriate training of nurses, physicians and patients. This could potentially prolong the VA life.
Internal jugular dimensions and common carotid overlapping assessed in a cross-sectional study by ultrasonography at three neck levels in healthy volunteers
Authors: Norin Helena , Pikwer Andreas , Fellert Fredrik , Åkeson Jonas
Published: November 2016

Background

Cannulation of the internal jugular vein may be associated with inadvertent puncture of the common carotid artery. Systematic use of ultrasound guidance has improved clinical success rates and reduced complications, but better knowledge of topographic relationships of the internal jugular vein and common carotid artery is desirable. This preclinical study was designed to determine by ultrasound technique relative topographic characteristics in humans of the internal jugular veins and common carotid arteries at different levels on both sides of the neck.

Methods

One hundred and twenty healthy volunteers were examined bilaterally by ultrasound at three neck levels with and without contralateral rotation of the head. Twelve digital pictures were recorded and used to determine venous diameters and extents of arteriovenous overlapping in each subject.

Results

Venous dimensions and arteriovenous overlapping were larger on the right side (p = 0.008) regardless of head rotation at all levels. There was more arteriovenous overlapping with than without rotation at right high- and mid-cervical levels (p<0.001). The only difference between right mid- and low-cervical levels was less arteriovenous overlapping at mid-cervical level without rotation (p = 0.017). The smallest venous dimensions and extent of arteriovenous overlapping were recorded at high-cervical level.

Conclusions

Despite similar venous dimensions, less arteriovenous overlapping regardless of head rotation at mid-cervical level, together with the pleural proximity at low-cervical level, propose the internal jugular vein to be anatomically (other factors disregarded) favorable for vascular access on the right side, at mid-cervical level, close to the angle between the sternocleidomastoid muscle bellies, and with minimal rotation of the head.
Intraprostatic Chronic Inflammation is Associated with a Reduced Risk of Prostate Cancer in Patients Elected to a First Random Biopsy Set
Authors: Porcaro Antonio B. , Novella Giovanni , de Luyk Nicolò , Corsi Paolo , Cacciamani Giovanni , Sebben Marco , Tafuri Alessandro , Processali Tania , Cerasuolo Mattia , Cerruto Maria A. , Brunelli Matteo , Siracusano Salvatore , Artibani Walter
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To investigate the associations of clinical factors and intraprostatic chronic inflammatory infiltrate (CII) with the risk of prostate cancer (PCa) in a large contemporary cohort of patients elected to a first random biopsy set.

Materials and Methods

The study evaluated 596 patients who were elected to a first random biopsy set because of suspected PCa in the period between September 2010 and September 2015. The multivariate logistic regression model investigated the possible associations of clinical factors and intraprostatic CII with PCa.

Results

Prostate cancer was detected in 292 of 596 patients (49%). Intraprostatic CII was detected in 26.3% of cases. Age (odds ratio, OR = 1.060; p<.0001), prostate-specific antigen (PSA; OR = 1.174; p<.0001), prostate volume (PV; OR = 0.951; p<.0001) and abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE; OR = 2.170; p = 0.001) were independent predictors of PCa risk; moreover, intraprostatic CII was an important independent factor lowering the risk of PCa (OR = 0.258; p<.0001) in the multivariate clinical model.

Conclusions

In a large contemporary cohort of patients elected to a first random biopsy set, the detection of intraprostatic CII was not negligible (26.3%) and associated with a reduced risk of PCa. In the prostate microenvironment, intraprostatic CII might lower the risk of PCa by activating the response of the immune system at the early stages of cancer induction and progression. Specific serum biomarkers and imaging modalities associated with intraprostatic CII are required. Advanced basic science research is warranted to investigate and develop the controversial topic of intraprostatic chronic inflammation in relation to PCa.
Implications and Challenges in Studying as a Full Distance Learner on a Masters Programme: Students’ Perspectives
Authors: Fincham David
Published: November 2016

There has been a growing interest in the application of information and communication technology (ICT) as a means of improving and extending participation in Higher Education and in its impact on pedagogy. Six years ago, two students were recruited to a Masters Degree programme at St Mary’s University, London, as Full Distance Learners. Full Distance Learning implies that through asynchronous participation, students are not required to be together at the same time but can access course materials and communicate with tutors and other students flexibly at their own time and convenience through a virtual learning environment (VLE). Numbers have grown exponentially and, currently, there are more than fifty Full Distance Learners engaged at some point in the programme. This paper sets out to explore the personal reflections of the experiences of Full Distance Learners who have successfully completed the course. Adopting a phenomenological approach, it was possible for the researcher to explore individual perceptions of students in order to evaluate their particular experiences, which are not often studied. Consequently, it was possible to interpret the benefits and limitations of studying as Full Distance Learners from their own experiences. It was hoped that an examination of the experiences and perceptions of individuals from their own personal points of view would indicate to what extent they would support, inform and challenge conventional practice.
The Development, Validity, and Reliability of the Barriers to Seeking Psychological Help Scale for College Students
Authors: Topkaya Nursel , Şahin Ertuğrul , Meydan Betül
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study was to develop a scale to determine the barriers affecting undergraduate students seeking psychological help. In line with this purpose, the validity and reliability of the scale were examined in five different samples. Exploratory factor analysis results suggested that the scale consists of five dimensions, labeled as fear of being stigmatized by society, trust in the mental health professional, difficulties in self-disclosure, perceived devaluation and lack of knowledge in the first sample. The confirmatory factor analysis cross-validated the scale’s five-factor structure on a new college students’ sample. The convergent and divergent validity of the scale were also supported with theoretically and empirically expected correlation with self-concealment, self-stigma, and attitudes towards seeking psychological help. Moreover, the scale was found to have an adequate stability coefficient across three weeks and appropriate levels of internal consistency coefficient reliability for each of the subscales in two different samples. These initial findings show that theBarriers to Seeking Psychological Help Scale is a valid and reliable instrument to measure hindrances related to psychological help-seeking for undergraduate students. Future studies can examine the validity and reliability of the scale on different samples and cultures, as well as predictive validity on college students’ decisions to seekcounseling.
Role of Environmental Pollutants in Skeletal Muscle Insulin Resistance and Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Chehade Lucia , Caron Audrey , Aguer Celine
Published: November 2016

In the last decade, the incidence of diabetes in Canada has nearly doubled and is now estimated to affect one in three individuals. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a serious public health problem: governments and health care professional are working to control its propagation, offer better treatment alternatives and reduce its impact on patient quality of life. Insulin resistance is an early event in the development of T2D. Due to its mass and important role in the maintenance of glucose homeostasis, skeletal muscle is believed to play a central role in the development of insulin resistance. The development of this metabolic disorder is multifaceted with obesity, physical activity and diet receiving the most research interest. It is recognized that mitochondrial dysfunction, increased oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in the development of insulin resistance in muscle. Recently, the environmental hypothesis has been advanced to explain the increased number of patients with T2D. Various persistent organic pollutants (POPs), such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), bisphenol A (BPA) and p, p-dichlorodiphenylchloroethane (DDT) are being investigated in their relation to T2D. However, despite the importance of skeletal muscle in the development of insulin resistance and T2D, very few studies have focused on the effect of POPs on skeletal muscle energy metabolism. This review will highlight the implication of POPs in the development of diabetes and present work being done to asses POPs’ involvement in observed metabolic disarrangements, specifically at the level of skeletal muscle.
The Utilization of Water Points by Wildlife Species in Nyae Nyae Conservancy, Namibia
Authors: Rispel Melanie , Lendelvo Selma
Published: November 2016

Namibia is a semi-arid country and underground water sources have proven to be reliable water sources for drought-prone countries. Underground water has the ability to sustain conservation activities as long as water infrastructure is in place and maintained. Despite the different water requirements for the wildlife species, water remains an essential component of wildlife management in Namibia. Therefore, this study aims at understanding utilization of water points by various wildlife species in the Nyae Nyae conservancies, which is located in the north-eastern part of Namibia. This study used monitoring data from wildlife counts that are conducted by the Conservancy annually at water points coupled with key-informant interviews with local conservancy members and leaders as well as some stakeholders. The study shows that the Conservancy had a diverse number of wildlife species that were predominantly ungulates (70%). These species were detected at 29 water points distributed across the Conservancy. Most of the water points in the conservancy were artificial points with water drawn from the underground water sources, while a few of the water points were pans (17%). Water resources are very important resources for conservation, not only in terms of being used by wildlife but also in terms of being used to provide an indication of species diversity in the conservation.
Exploring the Effect of Coupon Proneness and Redemption Efforts on Mobile Coupon Redemption Intentions
Authors: Gonzalez Ernesto
Published: November 2016

This paper examined the impact of coupon proneness and redemption efforts on the intention to redeem or use mobile coupons from the smartphones in a sample of business students at Florida National University. The descriptive analysis, which was based on the Theory of Reasoned Action, Theory of Plan Behavior, Acquisition-Transaction Utility Theory, Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, and The Technology Acceptance Model Theory, used the coupon proneness, redemption efforts and the intention to redeem or use mobile coupons scales adapted to mobile coupons setting. Structural equation modeling revealed two subcomponents of the coupon proneness (coupon propensity and enjoyment) and high and significant values of coupon propensity and enjoyment on the intention to redeem or use mobile coupons for the groups of students. However, the impact of redemption efforts on the intention to redeem or use mobile coupons was negative as expected, but weak and not significant.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches and Methods in Language “Testing and Assessment” Research: A Literature Review
Authors: Rahman Md Shidur
Published: November 2016

The researchers of various disciplines often use qualitative and quantitative research methods and approaches for their studies. Some of these researchers like to be known as qualitative researchers; others like to be regarded as quantitative researchers. The researchers, thus, are sharply polarised; and they involve in a competition of pointing out the benefits of their own preferred methods and approaches. But, both the methods and approaches (qualitative and quantitative) have pros and cons. This study, therefore, aims to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using qualitative and quantitative research approaches and methods in language testing and assessment research. There is a focus on ethical considerations too. The study found some strengths of using qualitative methods for language “assessment and testing” research—such as, eliciting deeper insights into designing, administering, and interpreting assessment and testing; and exploring test-takers’ behaviour, perceptions, feelings, and understanding. Some weaknesses are, for instance, smaller sample size and time consuming. Quantitative research methods, on the other hand, involve a larger sample, and do not require relatively a longer time for data collection. Some limitations are that quantitative research methods take snapshots of a phenomenon: not in-depth, and overlook test-takers’ and testers’ experiences as well as what they mean by something. Among these two research paradigms, the quantitative one is dominant in the context of language testing and assessment research.