bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neglect of Differentiation — Loss of Competitive Advantage (Example of Russian Producers of Fittings for NPP)
Authors: Плахотникова  , Plakhotnikova E.
Published: June 2014

Purchase of equipment for a nuclear power plant is carried out by Rosenergoatom

concern according to the Federal law No. 223-FZ “About purchases of goods,

works, services by separate types of legal entities” dated 18.07.2011. Among

the main criteria of assessment are quality, supplier’s reliability, delivery time

and price. Considering that in such tenders the reliable suppliers participate

which possess of considerable production potential and capable in tight

deadlines and approximately equal terms to fabricate and supply an equipment,

and that quality criterion is estimated on compliance of technical characteristics

which have been set in tender documentation to characteristics specified in

suppliers’ demands, the basis for decision-making on a contract award is first

of all a price. The price of electro-driving fittings depends on a basic cost of

electric drive and shutoff valves. Through a comparative analysis of electrodriving

shutoff valves of various producers it has been established that in some

cases for management of absolutely identical shutoff valves foreign and

domestic producers use the electric drives of various power. The use of more

powerful electric drive as an actuation device in Russia considerably increases

a system cost and therefore reduces domestic production competitiveness at

tender purchases. The reason of competitiveness decrease is connected with

incorrectness of fittings’ power characteristics calculation techniques which are

used by almost all fittings manufacturers of Russia, and unreasonably

overestimated power system characteristics as a result of unification. Revision

of expediency of the unification accepted still in the last century can reduce

considerably the price of domestic systems of electro-driving shutoff valves and

increase the production’s competitiveness and quality.
«Undeserved Profit» Problem on Modern Russia’s Resource Markets
Authors: Соловьев  , Solovev S. , Белов  , Belov Dmitriy , Протасьев  , Protasyev Viktor , Игнатьев  , Ignatev A.
Published: June 2014

One of the main problems at commercial accounting of resources (natural gas,

electric energy, heat, water) is discrepancy of registered volumes (quantity) of

delivered (supplied) and consumed (paid) resource. Stated treats not only a resource,

but also an accounting of deliveries related to any kind of goods which

quantity is defined and considered by means of measuring tools (packaging of

loose products, supply of gasoline from a plant at a gas station, its further realization

to consumers, etc.). It is accepted to call a discrepancy of specified volumes

as imbalance. Its consequence is either an incomplete settlement of consumers

with a supplier (supplier’s damage and consumers’ “undeserved

profit”), or, on the contrary, consumers’ overpayment for delivered resource

(supplier’s “undeserved profit” and consumers’ damage). Therefore, the resource

imbalance can be classified as one of the most important economic indicators

of any resource supplying process since the economic efficiency of

activity of companies and organizations delivering and realizing resources to

consumers depends directly on the resource imbalance value.
Stochastic estimation of chaotic dynamics models of the biological systems
Authors: Даянова  , Dayanova D. , Вохмина  , Vokhmina Yu. , Гавриленко  , Gavrilenko T. , Игуменов  , Igumenov D.
Published: June 2014

Process modeling is one of the main directions in science and engineering. When there is a model of simple system it is possible to obtain the parameters of its state vector before a process starts. However, the modeling of complex processes (systems) applying standard methods of computing and simulation software is confronted with difficulties of chaotic dynamics of such systems. A number of models that allow to describing the dynamics of complex biological dynamic systems is extremely small, as to repeat the same results of experiments it is impossible on the basis of deterministic or stochastic models. In additional, the authors propose a model for description of human state vector through three-compartment two-cluster control system. This model may be implemented using an application package exhibiting an operation of each cluster separately. The output signals of the model seen can be compared with the actual experimental data observed as output signals. The signals obtained at the output of the simulation model show different states of the system under external control actions which cause the change in the internal properties and states due to external (disturbance) signal. Control external signal from the first cluster and accordingly the output signal from the second cluster were divided into four main components that had the same analogues in the dynamics of complex biological behavior of dynamical systems [2,4].
Database optimization for multi-factor analysis by means of the algebraic model of constructive logic
Authors: Лукина  , Lukina T. , Хромушин  , Khromushin Oleg , Хромушин  , Khromushin Viktor , Пацукова  , Patsukova D.
Published: June 2014

The paper considers the stage of preparing the database for multi-factor analysis by means of the algebraic model of constructive logic that has been used successfully since 1999 to perform the analysis in medicine and biology. Initial data for model building is a table. Each line in this table is treated as a case where the values of factors and their impacts are marked. The resulting model is represented by a set of result components in the form of factors indicating the limit of detection combined by conjunction sing (pointing to the combined effect). Each resulting component is characterized by the capacity is the essence of the number of lines in the table, which correspond to the specified limits of determining factors in their joint action. The resulting logical expression is characterized by a combination of factors (indicating the detection limits of each of them) in their capacity as the degree of influence on the result. The initial table data should not have contradictions (when the aim is achieved and isn´t achieved by the same values of the factors). To this aim, the program envisages the exception of those targeted lines of which coincide with non-target strings. However, this isn´t always acceptable

in cases of a large number of matching target lines and the singular numbers of non-target strings. Then a large number of cases due to the single non-target line are excluded. The analysis of the coincidences of target and non-target lines to select a single non-target line, to remove them from the database on the example of connective tissue dysplasia with magnesium therapy has been proposed. Comparative analysis of the obtained mathematical models was carried out. The effect of improvement of mathematical model on the basis of algebraic model of constructive logic was demonstrated.
Experimental study of antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles on the model of peritonitis and meningoencephalitis in vivo
Authors: Бузулуков  , Buzulukov Yu. , Хренов  , Khrenov P. , Честнова  , Chestnova Tatyana , Савин  , Savin Eugene , Субботина  , Subbotina Tatyana , Хадарцев  , Khadartsev Aleksandr , Анциферова  , Antsiferova A.
Published: June 2014

The paper presents the results of study of the antibacterial effect of silver nanoparticles when ingested, on the experimental model of peritonitis and meningoencephalitis in vivo. In conditions of the increasing resistance of bacteria to antibacterial drags, the search of alternative means which will allow to effectively deal with clinically significant microorganisms, is relevant. Such tools are the nanoparticles of metals, particularly the silver nanoparticles. According to results of conducted research, they show quite a high antibacterial and antiviolence activity. The study prove that at intra-cerebral introduction of pathogenic strains of microorganisms (experimental meningoencephalitis), after per oral use of nanosilver - effect didn´t observed; in the group of animals with intra-peritoneal injection (experimental peritonitis) - the signs of inflammation of the peritoneum by microscopic examination didn´t revealed.
Morfological and statistical characteristics of interaction of peripheral endocrine glands in experimental model of remote consequences γ-irradiation
Authors: Черкасова  , Cherkasova Yu. , Воронцова  , Vorontsova Zoya , Золотарева  , Zolotareva S.
Published: June 2014

A promising approach for objectification of the results of research is experimental simulation of conditions of influence of radiation factors, with the subsequent processing of data using new computer technologies and programs, statistical and mathematical analysis. Experiment was made on laboratory white rats males (351 individuals) in the conditions of single and fractioned γ - radiations in doses 5, 10, 25, 50 mZv with a power of 50 sGr / h The objects of study are the thyroid gland and beam zone adrenal cortex. The criterias of morphological and functional state of peripheral endocrine glands are estimated after 12, 18, 24 months of exposition of the specified doses γ- radiations by means of complex of general histological, special, histochemical, statistical methods and mathematical modeling of the influence parameters. Modeling of experimental conditions the radiation damage under γ-irradiation in the range of doses allowed to conducting morphological and statistical analysis of remote consequences of exposure and to reveal data about the causality of interaction of the thyroid gland and beam zone adrenal cortex, with the increasing correlation in prolongation of post timing observations. This shows the increase in direct proportion to the effect of defeat on the background of the formation of neoplasms of the thyroid gland.
Early diagnosis and prevention of cardiovascular risk in the patients with type II diabetes
Authors: Васильева  , Vasileva L. , Никитин  , Nikitin A. , Васильева  , Vasileva E. , Лубягина  , Lubyagina E.
Published: June 2014

In the paper the relevance of research associated with a high incidence in the world diabetes type 2 diabetes, with often development in patients with early and late, micro - and macro-vascular complications leading to disability and mortality is justified. The results of study on the complex clinical and anamnestic, biochemical, metabolic, functional risk factors for cardiovascular diseases are presented. By means of multivariate mathematical modeling the most informative predictors of complications and their combinations, associated with increased susceptibility to the development of macro-angiopathies in the patients with diabetes mellitus type 2, were defined. The importance of lipid disorders, metabolic profile and homocysteine in the development of cardiovascular complications and their progression based on the study of the correlation between homocysteine with lipoproteins in various forms macro-angiopathies of patients with diabetes type 2, has been demonstrated. Timely correction of identified violations promotes positive dynamics of metabolic processes and on this background, to reduce the frequency of cardiovascular complications. The obtained data contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms of formation, disposition, development, clinical course and outcome of diseases, identification of the population of persons with risk factors for the purpose of prevention activities.
Clinical efficiency of combined antihypertensive therapy in the patients with diabetic nephropathy and various saltsensitivity of hypertension
Authors: Бабкин  , Babkin Andrey , Головко  , Golovko T.
Published: June 2014

40 patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (avg. age 63.2±1.2) with diabetic nephropathy and hypertension were examined. The patients were randomized into 2 groups (20 patients in each group). The patients of the first group were treated a fixed combination of 2 drags: the Perindopril 5 mg and the Indapamide 1,25 mg (Noliprel A Forte). The patients of the second group were treated a free combination of the Valsartan 160 mg and the Indapamide SR 1,5 mg for 2 months. 24-hours arterial pressure monitoring was conducted in patients twice using the device AVRM - 04 (Hungary) according to the conventional method. Saltsensitivity of BP was evaluated by the method (Weinberger MN, 1986). After 2 months of therapy, avg. SBP in the patients of the first group decreased from 152,75±1,5 to 128,4±0,9 mmHg (pO.01), avg. DBP - from 88.95±1.9 to 75.45±0.7 mmHg (p<0,05); in the patients of group 2 from 153,2±1,3 mmHg to 133,7±0,9 (p<0.05) and from 89,15±1,9 to 77,85±0,9 mmHg (p<0,05), respectively. Both combinations of drags were most effective in the patients with saltsensitivity of hypertension: administration of the Noliprel in saltsensitive patients resulted in absolute reduction of avg. SAD by 27,8±0,7 mm Hg vs 18,3±0,4 mm Hg in saltresistant ones, p<0,01, avg. DAD decreased by 13,7±1,5 mm Hg vs 9,0±1,08 mm Hg, p<0,05, respectively; administration of the Valsartan and the Indapamide in saltsensitive patients resulted in avg. SAD decrease by 18,4±0,7 mm Hg vs 12,2±0,5 mm Hg in saltresistant ones, p <0.01, avg. DAD - by 10,3±1,2 mm Hg vs 6,7±0,9 mm Hg p<0,05, respectively. Both combinations of drags showed a comparable antihypertensive effect, which was significantly more pronounced in the saltsensitive patients.
Severity of neurological deficiency in the children of early age by means of neurobiochemistry markers assessment
Authors: Цветикова  , Tsvetikova L. , Бугримов  , Bugrimov D. , Балакирева  , Balakireva E. , Красноруцкая  , Krasnorutskaya O. , Петрова  , Petrova T.
Published: June 2014

The true picture of the severity and the degree of central nervous system (CNS) in children of the first months of life, doesn´t is always reflected. The outcome of the disease, including unfavorable, is obvious only to the 9-12 months of age due to the features that are assessed as the phenomena of self-defense. A lot of attention in modern Russian and foreign literature is given to the biochemical risk factors for the development of various diseases and their complications, in particular the indicators of oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, oxidative modification of proteins and antioxidant defense, neurospecific factors involved in the processes of maturation, differentiation and maintain the viability of brain neurons. However, the diagnostic potential of the investigated markers in children didn´t revealed. Purpose of this study is determination of markers of neurological deficits in infants on the basis of neurotrophic factors, indicators of oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Materials and methods. Comprehensive survey of 134 children (61 boys and 73 girls) aged from 0 to 9 months was carried out with the assessment of neurological status and biochemical markers. Results of study. The first component of the nervous tissue of the brain, responding to hypoxia, is microglial environment, which is caused by the growth of lesions S100- protein (i.e., the neuron at the stage of 0-1 months didn´t been metabolic changes - this is evidence of low levels of SOD and MDA).
Hyperoxia effect on humoral and cell components of immunobiological resistance of healthy rats in experiment
Authors: Мальцева  , Maltseva L.
Published: June 2014

The paper contains information about hyperbaric oxygenation impact on humoral and cell components of immune-biological resistance of healthy rats. The following factors are analyzed: potency of oxygen-dependent enzyme systems (myeloperoxidase, oxidase), oxygen-independent systems (leukocyte lysozyme, cationic proteins), killing reactions of peripheral blood neutrophils, their phagocytic and oxidase reserve, complement activity and content of circulating immune complexes in the blood serum of healthy animals, which have been exposed to 60-minute sessions of hyperbaric oxygenation, over time from the 1st to the 30th day post hyperoxia period during experiment. A single session of hyperbaric oxygenation is carried out within 60 minutes (3 absolute atmospheres mode). Mechanisms of adaptation and pathological reactions formation by immune-biological surveillance system of healthy body in early and late post hyperoxia periods during experiment are considered.

The paper shows that adaptive responses, which are designed to protect the body against aggressive action of oxygen under the influence of hyperbaric oxygenation, are formed in the bodies of healthy animals.

The reactions of oxygen-dependent of phagocytes systems in conditions of hyperoxia manifested in the early stages of the research, persisting to the end of the observation and the reactions of oxygen independent - only at early stages. The humoral responses of healthy organism under hyperbaric oxygen are characterized by the change in complement activity and concentration of circulating immune complexes in blood serum. The received experimental data may be used as a theoretical explanation of indications for use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and different hyperbaric oxygenation regimes.
Municipal Reform: Status and Prospects
Authors: Vasilev Vsevolod
Published: June 2014

A number of questions, demanding their settlement during reform of local government, are put in the article. This refers to improvement of relationship between self-governing authorities and state authorities, explanation of the constitutional norms governing these relations. Author analyzes changes of the federal legislation on local self-government according to which organizational insulation of selfgoverning authorities and state authorities is defined in a new way. The measures aimed at providing a functional purpose of local government are offered in the article. Need of restriction of the state powers delegated to local governments, the sense of matters of local significance decided by local self-governments, arguments for specification of the list of matters of local significance are given. Need of joint actions of self-governing authorities and state authorities to solve social and economic problems under condition of strict demarcation of their powers is also proved.
Lobbyism in Legislative Activity
Authors: Abramova Aleksandra
Published: June 2014

In the article is considered the concept of lobbyism, its value for the modern legislative process, is analyzed the positive and negative aspect of this phenomenon. The particular attention is paid to the analysis of the forms and methods of lobbying based on the coordination of interests in the formation of legislation and implementation of legislative policy.
Copyright Law: A Saga about Periods
Authors: Buzanov Viktor
Published: June 2014

The article deals with the development of copyright law in various periods of the Russian history. The copyright duration has varied in Russia and the USSR during the last decades — from 15 years to 25, 50 and 70. This has caused serious problems in application of copyright terms to particular works. The respective amendments extending the terms of copyright provided for different application of new terms to “old” works (i.e. the works created before the amendments were introduced) which has complicated the situation. According to the amendments the copyright duration could be “extended” or it could be “restored”. These controversial provisions left the works of some soviet writers, e.g. A. Tolstoy, A. Beliaev, unprotected a few times. The article focuses on the examination of copyright laws and court decisions including the opinions of the Russian highest courts.
Good Faith in Civil Law
Authors: Ulyanov Aleksey
Published: June 2014

This article covers such important problem of civil law as nature of good faith in the civil regulation. It dwells upon the new legal conception of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation as well as practical matters in this context. The author does not share the opinion of some legal scholars that good faith should be regarded as a principle and (or) rule of civil law. The author believes that good faith is not a legal notion, and should be considered as one of the implicit attributes of the social relations regulated by civil law. It discusses the legal basis to take measures for using this model in the system of civil legislation.
Government implementation of domestic violence protection measures nationwide
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: June 2014

As part of its policy to end violence against women and girls, the UK Government is rolling out domestic violence protection powers that will enable police to act more quickly in urgent situations. The new provisions follow on from the successful roll out of ‘Clare's law’, which allows information relating to a person's previous abusive behaviour to be passed to their partner. This article sets out the powers available to the police and court to protect people from domestic violence.
Should midwives measure blood loss in the fourth stage of labour?
Authors: Williams Carly
Published: June 2014

The first 1 to 2 hours following delivery of the placenta is defined as the fourth stage of labour and it could be argued that blood loss during this stage is often overlooked by practitioners. In this article, it is suggested that midwives should be considering how much blood a woman loses in the fourth stage of labour as this could enhance our future understanding of third stage management. This paper presents a critical analysis of the evidence surrounding the fourth stage of labour and suggests an altered perspective about expectant, physiological or conservative management. Further research is needed to improve our understanding around the significance of the type of management adopted in the third stage of labour and the impacts of this on blood loss in the fourth stage.
Listening in: A survey of supervisors of midwives in London
Authors: Brintworth Kate
Published: June 2014

In the face of an increasingly complex healthcare environment in the Capital, London Local Supervising Authority (LSA) undertook an anonymous online survey of all the Supervisors of Midwives (SoMs) (n=360) in London to understand whether it was meeting the needs of its supervisors, monitor whether supervisors had sufficient resources to fulfil their role ( Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), 2012 ), and what future direction the strategic development of supervisory support should take to ensure high quality statutory supervision was enabled in London. The survey had a 73% response rate and highlighted that SoMs greatly valued the personal support and education and development opportunities that they received from the LSA but were significantly concerned about fitness to practice issues and the impact of resources, most notably time, on the quality of the supervisory function.
Can I wear my heart on my sleeve?
Authors: Sporek Paulina Ewa
Published: June 2014

Student midwife Paulina Sporek discusses the emotional work in midwifery practice
Benchmark of quality
Authors: Taylor Charlie
Published: June 2014

Charlie Taylor shares his thoughts on how the introduction of Early Years Teacher Status will help to raise the status of the early years profession and enable more teacher-led provision in all settings.
Share talk, share books
Authors: Jones Michael
Published: June 2014

In this article, we explores how we can involve children in sharing books at home and in early years settings so that they are naturally involved in the repetition and meaningful conversations they need.
Improving foundation movement skills
Authors: Hunt Louise
Published: June 2014

The rapidly changing physical profile of children in the UK offers fewer opportunities for them to learn to move independently, which can have long-term, negative effects on both learning and behaviour.
Building early literacy skills
Authors: Newson Richard
Published: June 2014

How do you encourage children as they take their first steps in literacy? Richard Newson considers some effective principles, such as working with parents, being used by an award-winning project.
We need to share information
Authors: Robb Sue
Published: June 2014

The integrated health and education check, due to be introduced in 2015, will lead to more holistic support by allowing professionals to effectively share information and better identify areas of support.
What we can learn from… Summer
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: June 2014

This month, our focus is on the many wonderful activities that children can be encouraged to take part in and to take ownership of now that warmer, drier, longer days of summer are finally here.
Put on a performance
Authors: Finlayson Keri
Published: June 2014

The fourth article in our short series that has explored the use of puppets in the early years, looks at ways of making and utilising different types of theatre, somewhere for children to put on a show.
Knee extensor strength measured using a Biodex dynamometer and an adapted hand held dynamometer
Authors: Clements Shaun , Samuel Dinesh
Published: June 2014

Background:

Muscle strength is widely used as an outcome measure in rehabilitation and knee extensor strength is an important determinant of physical function. Hand held dynamometry (HHD) is portable and easy to use; however, reliability of HHD measurements is significantly influenced by the strength of the tester. The present study assessed the agreement between an adapted HHD and Biodex dynamometry while measuring knee extensor strength in young adults.

Method:

Thirty participants aged 22–35 years (mean age 24.4 years; SD ± 2.5) were studied. Peak isometric knee extensor strength of the dominant leg was measured using the Biodex dynamometer and adapted HHD. The agreement between the maximum voluntary contractions (MVC) was analysed using Pearson's Correlation Coefficient, intraclass correlation (ICC) and Bland–Altman analysis.

Results:

The mean peak knee extensor MVC was 191.7 Nm (± 53.6) for the Biodex dynamometer and 167.5 Nm (± 55) for the adapted HHD. The mean difference in peak knee extensor strength measured using the adapted HHD was 24.1 Nm (± 30.3) lower when compared to the Biodex. However, there was good correlation between the two measures (r=0.796, ICC (3, 1): peak torque=0.796; average of three trials=0.808) and Bland–Altman plots confirmed good agreement.

Conclusions:

The knee strength measurements were not influenced by examiner strength and results obtained using the adapted HDD were comparable to that using the Biodex; however, the absolute knee extensor strength obtained using the adapted HHD was generally lower.
National trends in revision spinal fusion in the USA
Authors: Rajaee S. S. , Kanim L. E. A. , Bae H. W.
Published: June 2014

Using the United States Nationwide Inpatient Sample, we identified national trends in revision spinal fusion along with a comprehensive comparison of comorbidities, inpatient complications and surgical factors of revision spinal fusion compared to primary spinal fusion.

In 2009, there were 410 158 primary spinal fusion discharges and 22 128 revision spinal fusion discharges. Between 2002 and 2009, primary fusion increased at a higher rate compared with revision fusion (56.4% vs 51.0%; p < 0.001). In 2009, the mean length of stay and hospital charges were higher for revision fusion discharges than for primary fusion discharges (4.2 days vs 3.8 days, p < 0.001; USD $91 909 vs. $87 161, p < 0.001). In 2009, recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) was used more in revision fusion than in primary fusion (39.6% vs 27.6%, p < 0.001), whereas interbody devices were used less in revision fusion (41.8% vs 56.6%, p < 0.001).

In the multivariable logistic regression model for all spinal fusions, depression (odds ratio (OR) 1.53, p < 0.001), psychotic disorders (OR 1.49, p < 0.001), deficiency anaemias (OR 1.35, p < 0.001) and smoking (OR 1.10, p = 0.006) had a greater chance of occurrence in revision spinal fusion discharges than in primary fusion discharges, adjusting for other variables. In terms of complications, after adjusting for all significant comorbidities, this study found that dural tears (OR 1.41; p < 0.001) and surgical site infections (OR 3.40; p < 0.001) had a greater chance of occurrence in revision spinal fusion discharges than in primary fusion discharges (p < 0.001). A p-value < 0.01 was considered significant in all final analyses.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:807–16.
Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block in upper limb surgery
Authors: Gamo K. , Kuriyama K. , Higuchi H. , Uesugi A. , Nakase T. , Hamada M. , Kawai H.
Published: June 2014

We examined the outcomes and levels of patient satisfaction in 202 consecutive cases of ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block (SBPB) in upper limb surgery performed between September 2007 and March 2010.

All blocks were performed by orthopaedic surgeons using ultrasound visualisation with a high-frequency linear probe. The probe was placed in the coronal–oblique plane in the supraclavicular fossa, and the puncture was ‘in-plane’ from lateral to medial. Most of the blocks were performed with 0.75% ropivacaine/1% lidocaine (1:1), with or without adrenaline in 1:200 000 dilution. In 201 patients (99.5%) the brachial plexus block permitted surgery without conversion to general anaesthesia. The mean procedure time for block was 3.9 min (2 to 12), the mean waiting time for surgery was 34.1 min (10 to 64), the mean surgical time was 75.2 min (6 to 232), and the mean duration of post-anaesthetic analgesia was 437 min (171 to 992). A total of 20 patients (10%) developed a transient Horner’s syndrome. No nerve injury, pneumothorax, arterial puncture or systemic anaesthetic toxicity were recorded. Most patients (96.7%) were satisfied with ultrasound-guided SBPB. This study demonstrates the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided SBPB for orthopaedic surgery on the upper limb.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:795–9.
The frequency of sequelae of slipped upper femoral epiphysis in cam-type femoroacetabular impingement
Authors: Murgier J. , Reina N. , Cavaignac E. , Espié A. , Bayle-Iniguez X. , Chiron P.
Published: June 2014

Slipped upper femoral epiphysis (SUFE) is one of the known causes of cam-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of FAI cases considered to be secondary to SUFE-like deformities.

We performed a case–control study on 96 hips (75 patients: mean age 38 years (15.4 to 63.5)) that had been surgically treated for FAI between July 2005 and May 2011. Three independent observers measured the lateral view head–neck index (LVHNI) to detect any SUFE-like deformity on lateral hip radiographs taken in 45° flexion, 45° abduction and 30° external rotation. A control group of 108 healthy hips in 54 patients was included for comparison (mean age 36.5 years (24.3 to 53.9).

The impingement group had a mean LVHNI of 7.6% (16.7% to -2%) versus 3.2% in the control group (10.8% to -3%) (p < 0.001). A total of 42 hips (43.7%) had an index value > 9% in the impingement group versus only six hips (5.5%) in the control group (p < 0.001). The impingement group had a mean α angle of 73.9° (96.2° to 53.4°) versus 48.2° (65° to 37°) in the control group (p < 0.001).

Our results suggest that SUFE is one of the primary aetiological factors for cam-type FAI.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014; 96-B:724–9.
An anatomical study of transfer of the anterior interosseous nerve for the treatment of proximal ulnar nerve injuries
Authors: Sukegawa K. , Kuniyoshi K. , Suzuki T. , Ogawa Y. , Okamoto S. , Shibayama M. , Kobayashi T. , Takahashi K.
Published: June 2014

We conducted an anatomical study to determine the best technique for transfer of the anterior interosseous nerve (AIN) for the treatment of proximal ulnar nerve injuries. The AIN, ulnar nerve, and associated branches were dissected in 24 cadaver arms. The number of branches of the AIN and length available for transfer were measured. The nerve was divided just proximal to its termination in pronator quadratus and transferred to the ulnar nerve through the shortest available route. Separation of the deep and superficial branches of the ulnar nerve by blunt dissection alone, was also assessed. The mean number of AIN branches was 4.8 (3 to 8) and the mean length of the nerve available for transfer was 72 mm (41 to 106). The transferred nerve reached the ulnar nerve most distally when placed dorsal to flexor digitorum profundus (FDP). We therefore conclude that the AIN should be passed dorsal to FDP, and that the deep and superficial branches of the ulnar nerve require approximately 30 mm of blunt dissection and 20 mm of sharp dissection from the point of bifurcation to the site of the anastomosis.

The use of this technique for transfer of the AIN should improve the outcome for patients with proximal ulnar nerve injuries.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:789–94.
Natural Progression of Low-Gradient Severe Aortic Stenosis with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Innasimuthu Antony Leslie , Kumar Sanjay , Lazar Jason , Katz William E.
Published: June 2014

Because the natural progression of low-gradient aortic stenosis (LGAS) has not been well defined, we performed a retrospective study of 116 consecutive patients with aortic stenosis who had undergone follow-up echocardiography at a median interval of 698 days (range, 371–1,020 d). All patients had preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (>0.50) during and after follow-up.

At baseline, patients were classified by aortic valve area (AVA) as having mild stenosis (≥1.5 cm2), moderate stenosis (≥1 to <1.5 cm2), or severe stenosis (<1 cm2). Severe aortic stenosis was further classified by mean gradient (LGAS, mean <40 mmHg; high-gradient aortic stenosis [HGAS], mean ≥40 mmHg). We compared baseline and follow-up values among 4 groups: patients with mild stenosis, moderate stenosis, LGAS, and HGAS.

At baseline, 30 patients had mild stenosis, 54 had moderate stenosis, 24 had LGAS, and 8 had HGAS. Compared with the moderate group, the LGAS group had lower AVA but similar mean gradient. Yet the actuarial curves for progressing to HGAS were significantly different: 25% of patients in LGAS reached HGAS status significantly earlier than did 25% of patients in the moderate-AS group (713 vs 881 d; P=0.035).

Because LGAS has a high propensity to progress to HGAS, we propose that low-gradient aortic stenosis patients be closely monitored as a distinct subgroup that warrants more frequent echocardiographic follow-up.
Exertional Dyspnea as a Symptom of Infrarenal Aortic Occlusive Disease
Authors: Schott Stacey L. , Carreiro Fernanda Porto , Harkness James R. , Malas Mahmoud B. , Sozio Stephen M. , Zakaria Sammy
Published: June 2014

Advanced atherosclerosis of the aorta can cause severe ischemia in the kidneys, refractory hypertension, and claudication. However, no previous reports have clearly associated infrarenal aortic stenosis with shortness of breath. A 77-year-old woman with hypertension and hyperlipidemia presented with exertional dyspnea. Despite extensive testing and observation, no apparent cause for this patient's dyspnea was found. Images revealed severe infrarenal aortic stenosis. After the patient underwent stenting of the aortic occlusion, she had immediate symptomatic improvement and complete resolution of her dyspnea within one month. Twelve months after vascular intervention, the patient remained asymptomatic.

In view of the distinct and lasting elimination of dyspnea after angioplasty and stenting of a nearly occluded infrarenal aortic lesion, we hypothesize that infrarenal aortic stenosis might be a treatable cause of exertional dyspnea. Clinicians should consider infrarenal aortic stenosis as a possible cause of dyspnea. Treatment of the stenosis might relieve symptoms.
Slope of the Anterior Mitral Valve Leaflet: A New Measurement of Left Ventricular Unloading for Left Ventricular Assist Devices and Systolic Dysfunction
Authors: Martinez Sara C. , Bradley Elisa A. , Novak Eric L. , Rasalingam Ravi , Cedars Ari M. , Ewald Gregory A. , Silvestry Scott C. , Joseph Susan M.
Published: June 2014

Left ventricular assist device (LVAD)-supported patients are evaluated routinely with use of transthoracic echocardiography. Values of left ventricular unloading in this unique patient population are needed to evaluate LVAD function and assist in patient follow-up.

We introduce a new M-mode measurement, the slope of the anterior mitral valve leaflet (SLAM), and compare its efficacy with that of other standard echocardiographically evaluated values for left ventricular loading, including E/e′ and pulmonary artery systolic pressures. Average SLAM values were determined retrospectively for cohorts of random, non-LVAD patients with moderately to severely impaired left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (<0.35, n=60). In addition, pre- and post-LVAD implantation echocardiographic images of 81 patients were reviewed.

The average SLAM in patients with an LVEF <0.35 was 11.6 cm/s (95% confidence interval, 10.4–12.8); SLAM had a moderately strong correlation with E/e′ in these patients. Implantation of LVADs significantly increased the SLAM from 7.3 ± 2.44 to 14.7 ± 5.01 cm/s (n=42, P <0.0001). The LVAD-supported patients readmitted for exacerbation of congestive heart failure exhibited decreased SLAM from 12 ± 3.93 to 7.3 ± 3.5 cm/s (n=6, P=0.041). In addition, a cutpoint of 10 cm/s distinguished random patients with LVEF <0.35 from those in end-stage congestive heart failure (pre-LVAD) with an 88% sensitivity and a 55% specificity.

Evaluating ventricular unloading in LVAD patients remains challenging. Our novel M-mode value correlates with echocardiographic values of left ventricular filling in patients with moderate-to-severe systolic function and dynamically improves with the ventricular unloading of an LVAD.
On a new class of fractional partial differential equations
Authors: Shieh Tien-Tsan , Spector Daniel E.
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we study a new class of fractional partial differential equations which are obtained by minimizing variational problems in fractional Sobolev spaces. We introduce a notion of fractional gradient which has the potential to extend many classical results in the Sobolev spaces to the nonlocal and fractional setting in a natural way.
To Work or Not to Work? The Effect of Childcare Subsidies on the Labour Supply of Parents
Authors: Kosonen Tuomas
Published: June 2014

This paper studies the effect of childcare subsidies on parental labour supply. I use variation arising from changes in the municipality-specific supplement to Finnish child homecare allowance to identify the causal effect of subsidies on the labour force participation of parents. The variation in labour supply incentives is plausibly exogenous, since eligibility depends on municipal-level rules, but not on family income. Robustness checks indicate that the results are not driven by policy endogeneity or residential sorting. I find a robust result that 100 euros higher supplement per month reduces the maternal labour supply by 3 percentage points.
Einstufung in UNIcert®-Kurse mittels C-Test
Authors: Eggensperger Karl-Heinz
Published: June 2014

This article describes a procedure for constructing C-tests for UNIcert® courses, and in doing so gives an insight into work in progress. Each year since 2005 twelve colleagues working in language centres in third-level institutions in Germany have collaboratively developed a C-test for assigning students to French courses. Our central concern is to link the C-test format to the UNIcert® certification system. As the linguistic demands of the different UNIcert® levels cannot be reliably scaled on the basis of the usual descriptors, we use teaching times as stipulated in the UNIcert® framework and correlate this with corresponding language levels that cannot be described precisely. From this we have derived a UNIcert® reference scale, which shows competence ranges for each level in terms of C-test scores. In this way it is possible to define entry levels for the different courses according to a single system of C-test scores. The scale can only be used, however, if the C-tests in question satisfy certain requirements. Accordingly, a UNIcert® reference “testlet” to determine admission to appropriate levels of French courses is being developed according to various parameters. Empirical procedures are being used to explore potentially suitable testlets. Course-related pilot testlets are tested by students taking UNIcert® courses. The results from the piloting of the testlets are compared with the reference testlet, and this determines whether or not they are used in the main test that assigns students to the appropriate levels of the UNIcert® courses for which they have registered. Grading is on the basis of total test scores and the UNIcert® reference scale.
Using Quality Management Systems to improve test development and standards and to promote good practice: A case study of testing Italian as a foreign language
Authors: Grego Bolli Giuliana
Published: June 2014

This article discusses the problem of quality in the production of language tests in the context of Italian language examinations. The concept of quality is closely related to the application of stated standards and related procedures. These standards, developed over the last thirty years, are mainly related to the concepts of the accountability and responsibility of organisations and testing bodies. In this context and for these purposes, a quality management system (QMS) could be a useful tool for the setting out of procedures and the consistent application of standards to the different phases in the production of language examinations, thereby supporting and providing evidence of the valid interpretation and use of test results (Messick 1989). Taking into account the development of standards in educational assessment (Saville 2014), the article starts with a brief exploration of the terms
Singular integrals on self-similar sets and removability for Lipschitz harmonic functions in Heisenberg groups
Authors: Chousionis Vasilis , Mattila Pertti
Published: June 2014

In this paper we study singular integrals on small (that is, measure zero and lower than full dimensional) subsets of
metric groups. The main examples of the groups we have in mind are Euclidean spaces and Heisenberg groups. In addition
to obtaining results in a very general setting, the purpose
of this work is twofold; we shall extend some results in Euclidean spaces to more general kernels than previously
considered, and we shall obtain in Heisenberg groups some applications to harmonic (in the Heisenberg sense) functions of
some results known earlier in Euclidean spaces.
Some Remarks on the Semio-Anthropology of Writing
Authors: Kim Sungdo
Published: June 2014

The aim of this work consists in constructing some epistemological foundations for the semio-anthropology of writing. While recognizing the conceptual discord on the ontological properties of writing, the author provides some genealogies of perspectives on writing including the extensive conceptualization inspired by J. Derrida. The author of this paper wants to insist on the epistemological necessity of graphic pluralism beyond the narrow linguistic notion of writing. In doing so, he would envisage to discover the broad and productive domain of semiotics of writing.
The simultaneous systematic analysis approach for personalized management of cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Marcus-Kalish Mira , Meiri Hamutal
Published: June 2014

The simultaneous systematic analysis (SSA) approach, emanating from the novel achievements in science and technology, is targeted to provide a broad insight into the human body physical and mental functioning in various surroundings. Thus it paves the way to personalized, preventive and predictive medicine. The goal is to form an ongoing collaborative research and development platform focusing on the micro and macroenvironmental factors of the complex human functioning. This approach aims to build an open, innovative, systematic joint effort, combining and sharing all acquired knowledge and expertise among the leading professionals in all relevant areas of science and technology, while reducing technical, conceptual and formal barriers. The CHEST methodology (converging humanities, education, science and technology) will be utilized, as an innovative meeting point, enabling open and coherent discussions among all stakeholders from all relevant disciplines. The SSA approach is complementary and fully aligned with the partitioned research, creating a well-structured joint effort, ongoing R&D sharing and borderless discussions among the academic research, government, regulatory agencies, industry, and the public. Bringing on board all stakeholders including young students, could provide innovative outcomes and new regulations adjusted to the new era. This review study focuses on the cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) diagnosis and treatment case study, as CVDs accounts for about one third of human morbidity and mortality and is a main driver in the biomedical and drug industries. The American Heart Association (AHA) in its 2020 published health goals reflect a similar attitude and thus provides strong support to the SSA approach. It is the authors’ contention that applying the SSA approach could provide the essential comprehensive insight into individual complex functioning over time and place. Thus, it would enable responsible personalized, accessible healthcare and yielding major economical and sociological impact on society.
Radiation-chemically modified PP/CNT composites
Authors: Kalkis Valdis , Reinholds Ingars , Zicans Janis , Merijs-Meri Remo , Bitenieks Juris , Bockovs Ivans
Published: June 2014

In this work, the authors studied the effects of electron beam (EB)-induced changes in stress-strain characteristics, heat shrinkage stresses, and structure characteristics on polypropylene (PP) composites containing bisphenol-A-dimethacrylate (BPDMA) as the radiation sensitizer and different contents of multi-walled carbon nanotube (CNT) filler (0–2 wt.%). The effect of stearic acid (SA) as the surface modifier on the improvement of CNT dispersion in the PP matrix was also studied. Initially, PP blends with different contents (up to 10 wt.%) of BPDMA were prepared to determine the effective concentration of the sensitizer for the modification of the PP matrix. PP/BPDMA composites and blends filled with CNTs were irradiated up to 25–50 kGy of radiation doses. The properties of unirradiated compositions and those modified by EB, were compared. Radiation-induced changes were confirmed by gel fraction and by the changes in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra. The results showed an increase in Young’s modulus, yield strength, and thermal-relaxation stresses for the irradiated PP/CNT compositions grafted with 3 wt.% of BPDMA and compatibilized with SA.
Invariants of coinvariant algebras
Authors: Smith Larry
Published: June 2014

Let

ρ
:
G
↪
GL
(
n
,
𝔽
)

${\rho : G \hookrightarrow \mathrm {GL}(n, \mathbb {F})}$

be a representation of a finite group G over
the field 𝔽 and let

H
≤
G

${H \le G}$

be a subgroup of G. Form the
algebra of polynomial functions

𝔽
[
V
]

${\mathbb {F}[V]}$

on the representation space

V
=

𝔽
n

${V = \mathbb {F}^n}$

of ρ.
The action of G on V extends to

𝔽
[
V
]

${\mathbb {F}[V]}$

and we denote by

𝔽

[
V
]

G

${\mathbb {F}[V]^G}$

the invariant algebra; namely,
the subalgebra of G-invariant forms. The coinvariant algebra of ρ
is the quotient algebra

𝔽

[
V
]

G

=
𝔽

[
V
]

/
𝔥

(
G
)

${\mathbb {F}[V]_G = \mathbb {F}[V] / \mathfrak {h}(G) }$

where the
Hilbert ideal

𝔥
(
G
)

${\mathfrak {h}(G)}$

of G (or better put, of ρ) is the
ideal of

𝔽
[
V
]

${\mathbb {F}[V]}$

generated by all the homogeneous G-invariant forms of strictly positive
degree. The group H acts on

𝔽

[
V
]

G

${\mathbb {F}[V]_G}$

and the subject of this manuscript is
the algebra

(
𝔽

[
V
]

G

)

H

${(\mathbb {F}[V]_G)^H}$

of H-invariants of

𝔽

[
V
]

G

${\mathbb {F}[V]_G}$

.