bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated Prostate Gland Segmentation Based on an Unsupervised Fuzzy C-Means Clustering Technique Using Multispectral T1w and T2w MR Imaging
Authors: Rundo Leonardo , Militello Carmelo , Russo Giorgio , Garufi Antonio , Vitabile Salvatore , Gilardi Maria , Mauri Giancarlo
Published: April 2017

Prostate imaging analysis is difficult in diagnosis, therapy, and staging of prostate cancer. In clinical practice, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is increasingly used thanks to its morphologic and functional capabilities. However, manual detection and delineation of prostate gland on multispectral MRI data is currently a time-expensive and operator-dependent procedure. Efficient computer-assisted segmentation approaches are not yet able to address these issues, but rather have the potential to do so. In this paper, a novel automatic prostate MR image segmentation method based on the Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) clustering algorithm, which enables multispectral T1-weighted (T1w) and T2-weighted (T2w) MRI anatomical data processing, is proposed. This approach, using an unsupervised Machine Learning technique, helps to segment the prostate gland effectively. A total of 21 patients with suspicion of prostate cancer were enrolled in this study. Volume-based metrics, spatial overlap-based metrics and spatial distance-based metrics were used to quantitatively evaluate the accuracy of the obtained segmentation results with respect to the gold-standard boundaries delineated manually by an expert radiologist. The proposed multispectral segmentation method was compared with the same processing pipeline applied on either T2w or T1w MR images alone. The multispectral approach considerably outperforms the monoparametric ones, achieving an average Dice Similarity Coefficient 90.77 ± 1.75, with respect to 81.90 ± 6.49 and 82.55 ± 4.93 by processing T2w and T1w imaging alone, respectively. Combining T2w and T1w MR image structural information significantly enhances prostate gland segmentation by exploiting the uniform gray appearance of the prostate on T1w MRI.
Short-Term Storage and Executive Working Memory Processing Predict Fluid Intelligence in Primary School Children
Authors: Aeschlimann Eva , Voelke Annik , Roebers Claudia
Published: April 2017

Working memory (WM) includes short-term storage and executive processing of information. WM has been suggested to be one of the key concepts to explain individual differences in fluid intelligence (Gf). However, only a few studies have investigated the association of the two different aspects of WM in relation to Gf. Furthermore, even fewer studies have included children. Therefore, we first investigated the inter-relations between the WM aspects (verbal and visual-spatial storage, verbal and visual-spatial executive processing). Second, we explored the relation between a general WM factor and Gf. Third, we analyzed the relations between the different WM aspects and Gf while we controlled for common variance among all WM tasks. Nine- to 11-year olds had to solve simple and complex span tasks. Correlations and structural equation modeling techniques were used to examine these relations. Most inter-relations among simple and complex spans were found to be substantial and positive. The general WM factor was related to Gf. Furthermore, after controlling for common variance among all WM tasks, individual differences in verbal storage, visual-spatial storage and verbal processing still uniquely related to Gf. Visual-spatial processing, however, was not related to Gf. Results are discussed in terms of underlying mechanisms.
The “Metabolic Memory” Theory and the Early Treatment of Hyperglycemia in Prevention of Diabetic Complications
Authors: Testa Roberto , Bonfigli Anna Rita , Prattichizzo Francesco , La Sala Lucia , De Nigris Valeria , Ceriello Antonio
Published: April 2017

Several epidemiological and prospective studies suggest that an early intensive control of hyperglycaemia is able to decrease the risk of diabetic micro- and macro-vascular complications. A growing body of experimental evidence supports the concept that the risk for diabetes complications may be linked to oxidative stress, non-enzymatic glycation of proteins, epigenetic changes, and chronic inflammation, laying the foundation for the “metabolic memory” theory. From a clinical point of view, this theory supports the need for a very early aggressive treatment, with the goal of normalizing metabolic control as soon as possible. It may also prove beneficial to introduce therapeutic agents that are able to reduce reactive species and glycation, in addition to presenting better control of glucose levels in patients with diabetes, in order to minimize long-term diabetes complications. In this review, we evaluate the effect of glucose intake and metabolism in the light of this theory.
Why Prostitution Policy (Usually) Fails and What to Do about It?
Authors: Wagenaar Hendrik
Published: April 2017

This article describes and discusses the results of two comparative studies of prostitution policy in Europe that are complementary in their design and methodology. One is a comparison of 21 countries using a most different systems design; the other an in-depth comparison of Austria and The Netherlands, using a most similar systems design. The two studies found a remarkable continuity in the inherent approach to the regulation of prostitution and its effects. Despite differences in political regime, administrative organization, and national cultures, since the middle of the 19th century, the purpose of prostitution policy has been to impose strict controls on sex workers and to a lesser extent their work sites. The effects of this approach have been disappointing: despite rhetorical claims to the contrary the control of sex workers has no discernable effect on the prevalence of prostitution in society. The effects of policies aimed at control are mostly negative in that they corrode the human and labor rights of sex workers. The article discusses several challenges to the regulation of prostitution (such as its deeply moral nature and the lack of precise and reliable data) as well a number of other important outcomes (such as the importance of local policy implementation for the effects of regulation). The article concludes with the empirically substantiated suggestion that a form of collaborative governance in which sex worker advocacy organizations participate in the design and implementation of prostitution policy offers real prospects for an effective and humane prostitution policy.
Carbon Dioxide Emissions, Economic Growth, and Selected Types of Fossil Energy Consumption in China: Empirical Evidence from 1965 to 2015
Authors: Li Hongze , Li Bingkang , Lu Hao
Published: April 2017

This paper empirically investigates the interactions among CO2 emissions, economic growth, and three selected types of fossil energy consumption (coal, gas, and oil) using time series data from China over the period 1965–2015. Classic econometric analysis technologies including the Johansen cointegration test, the vector error correction model (VECM), and the Granger causality test based on VECM are employed to meet our objectives, and the presence of breaks in the data is also considered. Cointegration test result supports the existence of a long-run equilibrium relationship among the five variables, and the error correction mechanisms of the system involving the five variables are proven to be effective by VECM. Additionally, the Granger causality test based on VECM reveals that the bidirectional causalities between GDP and coal consumption, between GDP and gas consumption, and between coal consumption and CO2 emissions and unidirectional causalities running from GDP and oil consumption to CO2 emissions, from GDP to oil consumption, and from coal consumption to oil and gas consumption are found. Furthermore, several policy implications are proposed in the final section of this paper based on the empirical results.
Tourism Pressure at the Regional Level in the Context of Sustainable Development in Romania
Authors: Gogonea Rodica-Manuela , Baltălungă Adrian , Nedelcu Adrian , Dumitrescu Daniela
Published: April 2017

Tourism, through its components, can be found in all areas that relate to sustainable development principles. Although it should be encouraged due to the multiplier effect that it has in the development of a region, it creates pressure on the surrounding environment like any other economic activity in the process of specific potential capitalization. This paper is aimed at determining the degree of tourism pressure, its trend and impact on tourism’s sustainable development and the Romanian economy. When this pressure exceeds the ecological support capacity, negative effects occur, both on the landscape in general, and on certain tourist objectives, in particular. The assessment of this pressure and its most accurate quantification imply the use, calculation, correlation and interpolation of indicators that may summarize certain aspects related to the density of tourist fittings, tourist traffic intensity and capitalization level. Hence, the approach would be considered regionally and in terms of tourism pressure dynamics, depending on the structure of available statistical data, as well as to get a clearer picture. The authors used methods specific to geography, as well as statistical and econometric methods. The interdependence between tourism, tourism pressure and sustainability is described in the Central region. The results and observations determined with reference to the factors and indicators shown underlie the coordination of the tourism activity in the other regions according to the processes of sustainability and tourism pressure mitigation.
Modeling the Relative Contributions of Land Use Change and Harvest to Forest Landscape Change in the Taihe County, China
Authors: Wu Zhuo , Ge Quansheng , Dai Erfu
Published: April 2017

Forests are under pressure from land use change due to anthropogenic activities. Land use change and harvest are the main disturbances of forest landscape changes. Few studies have focused on the relative contributions of different disturbances. In this study, we used the CA-Markov model, a land-use change model, coupled with a forest landscape model, LANDIS-II, to simulate dynamic change in Taihe County, China, from 2010 to 2050. Scenarios analysis was conducted to quantify the relative contributions of land use change and harvest. Our results show that forestland and arable land will remain the primary land-use types in 2050, whereas the built-up land will sprawl drastically. Land use change and harvest may result in the significant loss of forest area and changes in landscape structure. The simulated forest area will increase by 16.2% under the no disturbance scenario. However, under harvest, forest conversion, and integrated scenario, the area will be reduced by 5.2%, 16.5%, and 34.9%, respectively. The effect of harvest is gradually enhanced. The land use change will account for 60% and harvest will account for 40% of forest landscape change in 2050, respectively. Our results may benefit from the integration of regional forest management and land-use policy-making, and help to achieve a trade-off between economy and ecological environment.
Sustainable Measures for Mitigation of Flooding Hazards: A Case Study in Shanghai, China
Authors: Yuan Yao , Xu Ye-Shuang , Arulrajah Arul
Published: April 2017

Global warming induces temperature variations and sea level changes for a long period of time. Many coastal cities around the world have experienced the harmful consequences of sea level changes and temperature variations. The city of Shanghai in China also suffers from the serious consequences of these two climatic factors. The geological and climatic conditions of Shanghai make it sensitive to flooding risks during heavy rainfall events. This paper analyses the conditions of sea level changes, temperature variations, and heavy rainfall events in Shanghai. Correspondingly, eustatic sea level change, tectonic movement of the continent, and land subsidence in Shanghai have effects on sea level changes. Correlation analysis indicates extraordinary short duration rainfall events have a relationship with temperature variations due to global warming. Moreover, the number of extraordinary torrential rainfall events also has a correlation with sea level changes. Pluvial flooding and potential damage to coastal structures are more likely to have serious effects as the number of flooding hazard events due to global warming and sea level changes increases. This study also established that to efficiently protect the environment, control economic losses, and prevent potential hazards, extra countermeasures including monitoring, forecasting, and engineering technology treatment should be adopted. Monitoring measurements combined with a database system on a website was found to be useful for forecasting and simulating flooding hazards. For systematic sustainable urban water system management, appropriate treatment technologies, such as sustainable urban water system, which can control and manage water quantity and quality, namely “the Sponge City”, should also be considered.
Aides techniques et petite enfance sévèrement handicapée : la difficulté de choisir
Authors: Charrière Clairette
Published: April 2017

Les jeunes enfants en situation de handicap sévère ont des besoins croissants en Aides techniques ( at ) pour un gain fonctionnel et d’autonomie. Le choix doit conduire à la décision d’acquisition, une démarche particulièrement difficile pour leurs parents dans la petite enfance. Leur acceptabilité compte. Dans ce cadre, l’ergothérapeute est un intervenant de référence, avec d’autres professionnels médico-sociaux et fournisseurs. Il se heurte aussi à des difficultés. Mieux les comprendre aide à les dépasser. Après un rappel des concepts et des enjeux, les critères environnementaux matériels et économiques sont distingués des aspects humains fondamentaux. Qui choisit ? Comment est vécu ce choix par chaque parent ? Comment impliquer l’enfant ? Professionnel ou parent, nous rencontrons nos limites de raisonnement et de perception des problèmes. L’ergo-thérapeute doit s’engager dans une démarche collaborative élargie qui accepte la complexité et ses outils méthodologiques. Par une approche bien-traitante et rigoureuse, les aides techniques peuvent soulager le manque, qui reste impossible à compenser.
L’ergothérapeute parmi les autres
Authors: Pierson Emmanuelle
Published: April 2017

Les ergothérapeutes analysent les besoins, les habitudes de vie et autres facteurs de la vie des enfants et de leur famille. Ils aident les membres de l’équipe à évaluer les capacités et les déficiences, les situations de handicap. Par le biais de jeux et d’activités de la vie quotidienne, ils organisent, individuellement ou en groupe, une thérapie visant à mieux utiliser les compétences de l’enfant, à améliorer ses capacités d’agir et contribuent ainsi à développer son autonomie, son indépendance et sa future implication sociale. Cet exposé a pour but de partager une expérience particulière et en aucun cas de faire l’objet d’une généralisation. Il présente des extraits d’interviews réalisées auprès de collègues, auxquels il a été demandé : « En quoi l’ergothérapie vient-elle compléter votre propre compétence professionnelle ? »
Manufacturing system design based on axiomatic design: Case of assembly line
Authors: Hager Triki , Wafik Hachicha , Faouzi Masmoudi
Published: April 2017

Purpose:  In this paper, a combined Production Line Design (PLD) process which includes many design aspects  is presented, developped and validated.Design/methodology/approach: The PLD process is based on the SADT (Structured Analysis and Design Technique) diagram and the Axiomatic Design (AD) method.Practical implications: For a purpose of validation, this proposed process has been applied in a manufacturing company and it has been validated by simulation.Findings: The results of the validation indicated that the production line designed by this process is outperformed the initial line of the company.Originality/value: Recently, the problems of production line design (PLD) have attracted  the attention of many researchers. However, only a few studies have treated the PLD which includes all design aspects. In this work, a combined PLD porcess is presented. It should be noted that the proposed process is simple and effective.
Pinturas de aluminio
Authors: Editorial Equipo
Published: April 2017

No disponible
Software Solution Improving Productivity and Quality for Big Volume Students' Group Assessment Process
Authors: Misut Martin , Misutova Maria
Published: April 2017

The key difference between testing a small and a larger group of students is typically the impossibility to use an e-assessment interface for a very large group of students in one room, especially in mathematics courses. Traditional testing causes overloading of the teacher when evaluating students´ results, and delay in releasing of the results. Moreover, the detailed results and test content are not directly stored in the database for further evaluation, which is a condition for optimization of learning environment. To overcome these problems, new teaching model along with method of assessment with enhanced software support was designed. Experimental data collected during three experimental academic years were compared to traditional assessment data to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed solutions. Results have proved that the overall productivity was significantly increased – more than eleven times without compromising quality. Internal dependencies among parameters of the automated assessment procedure were identified, analyzed and used to maximizing the impact of automation, as well.
Teaching Experience on Faculty Members’ Perceptions about the Attributes of Open Educational Resources (OER)
Authors: Zhang Muhua , Li Yan
Published: April 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of online teaching experience on faculty members’ perceptions about attributes of OER. Rogers’ (2003) attributes of innovation theory was adopted as the theoretical base in this study. And questionnaire survey was carried out at Zhejiang University (ZJU) in China. 360 faculty members from ZJU were randomly invited to complete a questionnaire. The results of data analysis found that (1) only small portion of surveyed faculty members had online teaching experience while there was large portions of participants indicated that they would be willing to share their educational resources on the ZJU website or on outside websites; (2) the majority of the participants tended to agree that there is a relative advantage and compatibility of OER, though they were more neutral regarding the complexity, trialability and observability of OER; (3) online teaching experiences significantly impacted faculty members’ perceived trialability and observability of OER. Based on the finding, the study suggested that universities may carry out more initiatives efforts to increase faculty members’ online teaching experience and to improve faculty members’ perceived attributes of OER.
Design of Education Application based on Shiva 3D Platform
Authors: Sun Hui
Published: April 2017

With the popular spread of electronic products, more and more related applications based on a virtual platform are being utilized. Meanwhile, more and more concerns are surfacing about the implementation of the functionality of virtual reality technology in the education or training field. The paper gives a specific example to propose the characteristics of a gaming education application based on Shiva 3D game engine. The implementation of this kind of application indicates that virtual reality technology of video games can be used in self-learning in education and training and can have significant results.
An Investigation into the Role of Tablet Devices in Facilitating Collaborative Learning in EFL Language Course
Authors: Albadry Haifa
Published: April 2017

The following paper outlines research concerning the ways in which learners use tablet devices, namely the iPad device, to learn English both in and outside of the classroom and how students’ interdependence and collaborative learning may be fostered by such an approach.

The study comprised of 21 Saudi university students at Dammam University, who were provided with the iPad device over a 12-week period. The potential use of the device as a mediating learning tool, in order to develop students’ collaboration and interaction, is discussed with reference to data compiled from students’ learning diaries, focus group interviews, and online log files.

The results suggest tablet devices aid learning by providing meaningful opportunities to use the target language in context and encouraging collaborative interaction. The findings also indicate that various types of teacher support, as well as interaction with the teacher and other students, remain necessary alongside tablet-assisted language learning.
Assessing Collaborative Problem Solving Skills in Technology-Enhanced Learning Environments – The PISA Framework and Modes of Communication
Authors: Nouri Jalal , Åkerfeldt Anna , Fors Uno , Selander Staffan
Published: April 2017

As been highlighted by many, for instance by PISA, Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) is a critical and necessary 21st century skill across educational settings. While many initiatives have been launched to investigate the nature of these skills, fewer are the attempts to understand how they should be assessed. However, in 2015, the PISA organization presented a framework for assessing CPS skills. This paper reports on a study investigating the predictive validity of the PISA assessment framework and if and how modes of communication influence the assessment of 24 students’ collaborative problem solving activities when using a computer-based assessment task system. The findings presented demonstrate that the PISA CPS assessment framework have a weak predictive validity, does not count for quality or productivity in communication, and that the mode of communication indeed influence CPS processes and in turn what is possible to assess.
Self-Study as an Emergent Methodology in Career and Technical Education, Adult Education and Technology
Authors: Hawley Todd S. , Hostetler Andrew L.
Published: April 2017

In this manuscript, the authors explore self-study as an emerging research methodology with the potential to open up spaces of inquiry for researchers, graduate students, and teachers in a broad array of fields. They argue that the fields of career and technical education (CTE), adult education and technology can leverage self-study methodology in similar ways. They argue that self-study has a great deal to offer both theoretically and practically to those interested in improving their practices as researchers, and for those involved in shaping adult vocational educational experiences. After reviewing the history of self-study as a research methodology, they provide examples of self-study research that have direct implications for those in CTE and adult education and technology. They conclude the manuscript by providing practical guidance to those researching and/or working in schools, community centers and workplaces.
An Analysis of Mobile Phone Use in Nigerian Agricultural Development
Authors: Ogbeide Osadebamwen Anthony , Ele Ideba
Published: April 2017

This study used 328 smallholder farmer respondents to investigate its objectives of how farmers use mobile phone technology, what benefits they have gained from the use, and the constraints encountered during the process. The quantitative data collected through a process of questionnaire administration were analysed using Stata 12 software. The results indicate that mobile phone usage for farm and other social purposes has increased with farmers. The farmers also spend almost 40% of their phone bills on farm-related activities and that seeking market information represented 17.32% of the total phone bill in a month. Increased efficiency in input delivery, market access, and output distribution were reported as some of the advantages of using mobile phones. This study was conducted in a region where its general characteristics may not reflect that of the entire country thus generalisation of the study may be limited, so the data should be cautiously use.
How Can Knowledge Leakage be Stopped
Authors: Mupepi Mambo Governor , Modak Aslam , Motwani Jaideep , Mupepi Sylvia C.
Published: April 2017

This article discusses how leakage of knowledge can occur in value creation networks embedded in knowledge-intensive firms, and how a collaborative approach can be utilized to minimize risk and increase sustainability. For knowledge to be preserved from unintentional outflow, its confidential nature and description must be understood at all levels. Loss of knowledge can occur at any point; whether it is through the process of consultation or when employees do their work. Forfeiture of information can be unintended or a planned effort. To prevent such unintended leakage, it is important to develop a shared mindset among employees to minimize the risk. The socio-technical system design is a philosophical framework that enables companies to simultaneously consider both ethical and technical systems in order to best match the technology and the people involved. History has shown through a number of situations that firms that failed to comprehend new opportunities were often limited by stakeholders' thoughts and actions.
An Effective Mesocosm Design for Studying the Settlement and Recruitment of Fouling Organisms
Authors: Briant Hannah G. , Stephens Abraham , Ralston Emily , Hunsucker Kelli Z. , Swain Geoffrey
Published: April 2017

AbstractMesocosms are a powerful tool in the scientific community. They bridge the gap between laboratory and field studies by creating a contained test apparatus that allows for greater control over test organisms while still exposing them to natural environmental variations.
A new mesocosm was designed to monitor the in-situ settlement patterns of barnacles. This paper focuses on testing the efficacy of the mesocosm to manage potential problems such as biofouling, corrosion, and poor water quality. The mesocosm consisted of a PVC cube, where four of the
six sides had windows covered with 100-μm plankton mesh. Every 2 days, the cube was rotated so that one of the mesh sides was held out of the water, preventing biofouling from clogging the mesh. Biofouling on the outside of the mesocosm significantly correlated to the days of immersion
in the marine environment; the longer a side was immersed, the greater the biofouling coverage (p < 0.05, R2 > 0.50). Therefore, the design successfully managed fouling without the use of harmful chemicals. Phytoplankton composition inside and outside the mesocosm
was not significantly different (p > 0.05), proving that there was food available to the barnacle larvae for development. There was a lower amount of meroplankton inside the mesocosm (p < 0.05) as compared to outside, showing that this mesocosm successfully excluded most
competing larvae. This mesocosm design was successful at inhibiting biofouling growth, maintaining water quality and sufficient food, preventing competitive settlers, and housing specific settlement experimentation.
Autoimmune Ear Disease: Clinical and Diagnostic Relevance in Cogan’s Sydrome
Authors: Maiolino Luigi , Cocuzza Salvatore , Conti Angelo , Licciardello Luisa , Serra Agostino , Gallina Salvatore
Published: April 2017

The autoimmune inner ear disease is a clinical syndrome with uncertain pathogenesis that is often associated to rapidly progressive hearing loss that, especially at the early stages of disease, may be at monoaural localization, although more often it is at binaural localization. It usually occurs as a sudden deafness, or a rapidly progressive sensorineural hearing loss. In this study a particular form of autoimmune inner ear disease is described, Cogan’s syndrome. Cogan’s syndrome is a chronic inflammatory disorder that most commonly affects young adults. Clinical hallmarks are interstitial keratitis, vestibular and auditory dysfunction. Associations between Cogan’s syndrome and systemic vasculitis, as well as aortitis, also exist. We report a case of a young woman who presented audiological and systemic characteristics attributable to Cogan’s syndrome. In the description of the case we illustrate how the appearance and evolution of the disease presented.
Diagnosis of Cardiomyopathies: Tips and Tricks for Internists and General Practitioners
Authors: Palmiero Giuseppe , Carlomagno Guido , Lucivero Giacomo
Published: April 2017

Cardiomyopathies are little known to internists and general practitioners (GPs), and not always able to arouse the interest of cardiologists. Probably, this happens because cardiomyopathies are perceived as rare and complex disorders, a prerogative of a few dedicated centers. This may partly explain why the diagnosis of cardiomyopathy is often missed and, consequently, why cardiomyopathies are largely underdiagnosed. Internists and general practitioners should have an interest in these conditions, because cardiomyopathies are not as rare as generally perceived, and because their complexity can be unravelled with knowledge and methodology. Cardiomyopathies are defined as myocardial disorders in which the heart is structurally and functionally abnormal in the absence of coronary artery disease or abnormal loading conditions. Irrespective of the cardiac imaging technique used, a limited number of phenotypes are defined based on ventricular morphology and function. These basic phenotypes include hypertrophic, dilated, restrictive and right ventricular arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathies. Aim of this review is to describe a simplified approach to the detection of the underlying causes of specific phenotypes. We will focus our attention on the basic phenotypes, presenting a diagnostic work-up and a suggestive clinical case for each phenotype.
Emphysematous Cystitis: Mortality, Risk Factors, and Pathogens of a Rare Disease
Authors: Schicho Andreas , Stroszczynski Christian , Wiggermann Philipp
Published: April 2017

Although high mortality rates have been reported for emphysematous pyelonephritis (EP), information on emphysematous cystitis (EC), which is less common, is sparse. Here, we report one new case of severe EC and 136 cases of EC that occurred between 2007 and 2016, and review information about the characteristics, diagnosis, treatment and mortality of these patients, and the pathogens found in these patients. The mean age of the 136 patients was 67.9±14.2 years. Concurrent emphysematous infections of other organs were found in 21 patients (15.4%), with emphysematous pyelonephritis being the most common of these infections. The primary pathogen identified was Escherichia coli (54.4%). Patients were mainly treated by conservative management that included antibiotics (n=105; 77.2%). Ten of the 136 patients with EC died, yielding a mortality rate of 7.4%. Despite the relatively low mortality rate of EC compared with that of EP, a high degree of suspicion must be maintained to facilitate successful and conservative management.
Of faeces and sweat. How much a mouse is willing to run: having a hard time measuring spontaneous physical activity in different mouse sub-strains
Authors: Coletti Dario , Adamo Sergio , Moresi Viviana
Published: April 2017

Physical activity has multiple beneficial effects in the physiology and pathology of the organism. In particular, we and other groups have shown that running counteracts cancer cachexia in both humans and rodents. The latter are prone to exercise in wheel-equipped cages even at advanced stages of cachexia. However, when we wanted to replicate the experimental model routinely used at the University of Rome in a different laboratory (i.e. at Paris 6 University), we had to struggle with puzzling results due to unpredicted mouse behavior. Here we report the experience and offer the explanation underlying these apparently irreproducible results. The original data are currently used for teaching purposes in undergraduate student classes of biological sciences.
Screening of oxalate degrading lactic acid bacteria of food origin
Authors: Murru Nicoletta , Blaiotta Giuseppe , Peruzy Maria Francesca , Santonicola Serena , Mercogliano Raffaelina , Aponte Maria
Published: April 2017

A screening for oxalate degrading abilities was initially carried on within Lactic Acid Bacteria cultures of different food origin. Seventy-nine strains were drop-inoculated onto MRS agar plates containing calcium oxalate. By comparing colonies diameters, 31 strains were used to inoculate, in parallel, MRS and MRS modified by sodium oxalate addition. Differences in the strains’ growth were assessed by CFU counts. For two strains, the growth in oxalate enriched medium was significantly higher; while for eleven strains an opposite behaviour was recorded. Two strains - probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus LbGG and Enterococcus faecalis 59 - were chosen. The first strain appeared able to metabolize oxalate more efficiently than the other tested cultures, while strain 59 appeared unable to gather advantage by oxalates and, indeed, appeared to be inhibited by the salt presence in the medium. Outcomes revealed that higher glucose concentrations may favou oxalates utilization. In MRS with oxalate, but without glucose, citrate was completely metabolized. Evaluation along time confirmed that the oxalate degradation is more significant in presence of glucose. Outcomes may represent a good start for the development of a safe and even probiotic culture able to lower the oxalates content of food.
Journey of TRAIL from bench to bedside and its potential role in immuno-oncology
Authors: Naoum George E. , Buchsbaum Donald J. , Tawadros Fady , Farooqi Ammad , Arafat Waleed O.
Published: April 2017

Induction of apoptosis in cancer cells has increasingly been the focus of many therapeutic approaches in oncology field. Since its identification as a TNF family member, TRAIL (TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand) paved a new path in apoptosis inducing cancer therapies. Its selective ability to activate extrinsic and intrinsic cell death pathways in cancer cells only, independently from p53 mutations responsible for conventional therapeutics resistance, spotted TRAIL as a potent cancer apoptotic agent. Many recombinant preparations of TRAIL and death receptor targeting monoclonal antibodies have been developed and being tested pre-clinically and clinically both as a single agent and in combinations. Of note, the monoclonal antibodies were not the only type of antibodies developed to target TRAIL receptors. Recent technology has brought forth several single chain variable domains (scFv) designs fused recombinantly to TRAIL as well. Also, it is becoming progressively more understandable that field of nanotechnology has revolutionized cancer diagnosis and therapy. The recent breakthroughs in materials science and protein engineering have helped considerably in strategically loading drugs into nanoparticles or conjugating drugs to their surface. In this review we aim to comprehensively highlight the molecular knowledge of TRAIL in the context of its pathway, receptors and resistance factors. We also aim to review the clinical trials that have been done using TRAIL based therapies and to review various scFv designs, the arsenal of nano-carriers and molecules available to selectively target tumor cells with TRAIL.
Evaluating the functional results and complications of autograft vs allograft use for reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament: a systematic review
Authors: Pujji Ojas , Keswani Nikita , Collier Naomi , Black Marion , Doos Lucy
Published: April 2017

The aim of our review is to identify the reconstruction technique that has a superior functional outcome and decreased number of complications for the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). We have divided our review into 2 sections. Our primary question evaluates the functional results and complications of autografts compared to allografts for ACL reconstruction. Our subsidiary question evaluates the functional results and complications of bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) autografts compared to hamstring tendon autografts. We conducted a systematic review (SR) based on high quality evidence provided by Cochrane, PubMed and National Health Service evidence searches for papers comparing different ACL reconstruction techniques. Results from 2 primary studies, 1 SR and 1 meta-analysis showed no significant statistical difference when comparing clinical outcomes such as pain, range of motion, laxity, International Knee Documentation Committee score, single assessment numerical evaluation score, Tegner activity score and patient reported satisfaction with regards to autografts vs allografts. Allografts had worse outcomes for postoperative tibial tunnelling and graft failure. Results of 3 SRs showed statistically significant differences in incidence of anterior knee pain, kneeling pain and knee stability, which were all found to be greater amongst those who had received a BPTB autograft. Knee extension was significantly reduced in patients with BPTB grafts when compared to patients with Hamstring tendon autografts. However, with regards to return to prior levels of activity, there was no statistically significant difference between those that received BPTB autografts and those that received Hamstring tendon autografts. Autograft reconstruction of the ACL was shown to provide better postoperative outcomes when compared to allograft reconstruction, although the difference was not statistically significant. When researching different autograft options BPTB autografts were associated with greater pain but also greater stability of the knee joint postoperatively when compared to hamstring tendon autografts.
The contributions of Sidney J. Blatt: a personal and intellectual biography
Authors: Auerbach John S.
Published: April 2017

Sidney J. Blatt was a major figure in psychology and psychoanalysis. As a psychoanalyst, he was both a master clinician and a leading researcher in personality theory, personality development, psychopathology, personality assessment, and psychotherapy. Best known for his two-configurations model of personality, he was the author or coauthor of more than 250 articles and 18 books and monographs. This paper describes his three main contributions to our understanding of personality, both normal and abnormal, and clinical change: the two-configurations model, the cognitive morphology of mental representation, and the theory of internalization. The implications of these three concepts for psychotherapy research are delineated. Also discussed in this paper are the formative experiences, personal and intellectual, that influenced his ideas. Early experiences of loss are highlighted as crucial to Blattâ€™s understanding that some experiences of depression, and therefore some aspects of personality development and functioning, are rooted in relational issues, not only loss but attachment more generally, rather than in issues of guilt, self-criticism, and self-definition.
The Italian version of the Depressive Experiences Questionnaire: psychometric properties and validation in students, community, and clinical groups
Authors: Falgares Giorgio , De Santis Sandro , Gullo Salvatore , Carrozzino Danilo , Marchetti Daniela , Verrocchio Maria Cristina , Lo Coco Gianluca , Kopala-Sibley Daniel , Oasi Osmano
Published: April 2017

The current study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Italian validation of the Depressive Experiences Questionnaire (DEQ), conceived as a measure of self-criticism and dependency, i.e. two personality factors acting, according to Blatt (2004), as risk factors for depression in particular and psychopathology in general. A series of standardized measures [Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), DEQ, Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R), Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory, 3rd edition (MCMI-III)] was administered to three samples (i.e., students, community and clinical). Factorial validity was evaluated along with convergent and predictive validity. In order to evaluate the reliability and internal consistency, a specific subgroup of participants was retested on the DEQ and BDI-II. Results showed correlations between DEQ dimensions and some personality traits of the MCMI-III. The traditional three-factor model of the DEQ structure as identified by principal component analysis appears to be as stable factors as typically found in American samples, although some items showed elevated cross-loading or low loadings on any factor. Clinical and diagnostic implications of the findings will be discussed.
Changes in the anaclitic-introjective personality configurations following psychoanalytic psychotherapy with young adults
Authors: Werbart Andrzej , Aldèn Siri , Diedrichs Anders
Published: April 2017

Treatment goals in psychoanalytic psychotherapy often include changes in underlying psychological structures, rather than only symptom reduction. This study examines changes in the anaclitic-introjective personality configurations following psychoanalytic psychotherapy with young adults in relation to outcomes. Thirty-three patients were interviewed pretreatment and at termination using the Object Relations Inventory (ORI). Prototype Matching of Anaclitic-Introjective Personality Configuration (PMAI) was applied to the ORI material by two independent judges (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.73). The patients were classified pretreatment as predominately anaclitic (n=13) or introjective (n=20). Outcome measures included the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90) and Differentiation-Relatedness scale (D-R) pretreatment, at termination, at the 1.5-year and three-year follow-up. Both groups improved post-treatment in terms of symptoms and developmental levels of representations of self, mother, and father. No significant differences between the anaclitic and the introjective group were found in this respect, and could not be expected due to the low power (0.27). The anaclitic group showed better balance between relatedness and self-definition post-treatment, while this improvement was not significant in the introjective group. Further and larger studies are needed to draw more farreaching conclusions about the relations between changes in personality configurations over the course of treatment and the treatment efficacy. The clinical implications of this approach to underlying dynamic psychological structures are discussed.
No Transfusion is the Best Transfusion: A Rare Case
Authors: Sahoo Dibyajyoti , Mahapatra Smita , Nayak Rajeev Kumar , Mishra Debasish
Published: April 2017

Presence of antibodies against red cell antigens remains a major problem in thalassemia patients. β-thalassemia major patients do commonly suffer from alloimmunization, which is rarely seen in thalassemia intermedia patients. Association of multiple antibodies and antibody against high frequency blood group antigen further complicates the transfusion therapy. Advance immunohematological tests like adsorption, elution, and phenotyping are necessary along with antibody screening and identification. We present a case about a 25-year male thalassemia intermedia patient, whose blood sample when crossmatched found incompatible with more than 100 units of packed red blood cells. Various tests like direct and indirect antiglobulin (Coombs) tests, 3-cell panel, 4-cell panel, 10-, 11-, 16-cell panels, adsorption, elution, minor phenotyping were done to resolve the case. We found multiple alloantibodies with no autoantibody. The present case emphasizes on importance of minor phenotyping before first transfusion in all multitransfused patients, importance of immunohematological tests in resolving blood incompatibility and our experience of dealing high frequency antigen.
Primum non nocere
Authors: Mendoza Erika
Published: April 2017

Not available
Jugular valve function and petrosal sinuses pressure: a computational model applied to sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Tessari Mirko , Ciorba Andrea , Mueller Lucas Omar , Zhang Qinghui , Cristini Mariapaola , Menegatti Erica , Mazzoli Manuela , Pelucchi Stefano , Toro Eleuterio Francisco
Published: April 2017

Reports of extra-cranial venous outflow disturbances have recently been linked to sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). Aims of the present study are: i) to quantify, with mathematical model, the impact of jugular valve function on the pressure of the superior and inferior petrosal sinuses (SPS, IPS) and the main auricolar veins; ii) to verify the feasibility of the application of mathematical model in the clinical setting in terms of consistency respect to the usual measures of SSNHL outcome. Extra-cranial venous outflow and post analysis were respectively blindly assessed by echo colour-Doppler (ECD) and a validated mathematical model for the human circulation. The pilot study was conducted on 1 healthy control and in a group of 4 patients with different outcome of SSNHL. The main finding was the significant increased pressure calculated in the SPS and IPS of patients with ipsilateral jugular obstruction due to not mobile valve leaflets (6.55 mmHg), respect to the other subjects without extracranial complete obstruction (6.01 mmHg), P=0.0006. Moreover, we demonstrated an inverted correlation between the extrapolated pressure values in the SPS/IPS and the mean flow measured in the correspondent internal jugular vein (r= –0.87773; r-squared= 0.7697; P=0.0009). The proposed mathematical model can be applied to venous extra-cranial ECD investigation in order to derive novel clinical information on the drainage of the inner ear. Such clinical information seems to provide coherent parameters potentially capable to drive the prognosis. This innovative approach was proven to be feasible by the present pilot investigation and warrants further studies with an increased sample of patients.
7th Annual ISNVD Scientific Meeting - 4-6 May 2017 - Taormina, Italy
Authors: Giaquinta Alessia
Published: April 2017

The International Society for NeuroVascular Disease is a professional association devoted to research in the field of neurovascular related diseases. Our annual scientific meeting targets medical groups including, but not limited to: Vascular Surgeons, Interventional Radiologists, Neurologists, Neurosurgeons, Physicists, and Technologists and Basic Neuroscience, Bioengineers and Neurovascular researchers. The 3 days scientific programme includes: 13 main sessions, dibates and symposiums and 4 keynotes speakers (Mat Daemen, Alberto Figueroa, Byung-Boong Lee, Seshadri Raju).
Education and theology: Two partners needing each other
Authors: Nel Marius
Published: April 2017

No abstract available.