bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Denosumab treatment in the management of patients with advanced prostate cancer: clinical evidence and experience
Authors: Hegemann Miriam , Bedke Jens , Stenzl Arnulf , Todenhöfer Tilman
Published: February 2017

Osteoprotective therapies have become an essential component in the management of advanced prostate cancer (PC) patients as bone metastases (BMs) have a major impact on morbidity and mortality. Denosumab is a fully humanized antibody targeting the receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL), which has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in Europe and the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the US for prevention of skeletal-related events (SREs) in patients with solid tumors and BMs, including PC. The clinical settings in which PC patients should be treated with denosumab are still discussed controversially. In a phase III study, denosumab significantly delayed SREs compared with zoledronic acid (ZA) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant PC (CRPC). In addition, denosumab showed superior effects on pain and health-related quality of life (QoL) in these patients. In patients with nonmetastatic CRPC, denosumab has been proven to significantly increase bone metastases-free survival. However, no significant benefits on cancer-specific and overall survival were observed and denosumab was not approved by the US FDA and EMA in this context. The effectiveness of denosumab in patients with castration-sensitive PC (CSPC) and BMs is also under discussion, as clinical trials with ZA in these patients have not shown significant benefits. Clinical data on the use of denosumab in CSPC are urgently needed.
A change management approach to improving safety and preventing needle stick injuries
Authors: Aziz Ann-Marie
Published: February 2017

Key drivers for preventing healthcare-associated infection (HCAI) include evidence-based practices and procedures that prevent infection. Among the current guidance for preventing HCAIs is evidence and mandatory requirements for reducing needle stick injuries (NSIs). This article highlights how John Kotter’s model for change could help healthcare workers plan for successful and sustained deployment of needle safety devices (NSDs) and ultimately reduce the risk of a NSI.
Overuse Physeal Injuries in Youth Athletes
Authors: Arnold Amanda , Thigpen Charles A. , Beattie Paul F. , Kissenberth Michael J. , Shanley Ellen
Published: February 2017

Context:

Despite rising awareness of the risks associated with sports participation, overuse injuries continue to increase in youth athlete populations. Physeal injuries are one type of overuse injury exclusive to pediatric populations that are often sustained during athletic practice or competition. Overuse physeal injuries are, in theory, preventable; however, little consensus has been reached surrounding the risk factors, prevention, and treatment strategies.

Objective:

This systematic review summarizes the best available evidence concerning overuse physeal injuries in youth and adolescent athletes. It can be used to develop prevention and treatment programs specific to this population.

Data Sources:

PubMed and Academic Search Complete (EBSCOhost) were explored using the keyword physeal injuries from January 1950 through May 2015 to identify 24 studies.

Study Selection:

Original research studies of athletic populations with mechanisms of injury related to sport were chosen.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Data Extraction:

Data were extracted as available from 24 eligible studies. Study quality was rated using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine (OCEBM) guidelines.

Results:

Risk factors for injury include periods of accelerated growth, chronological age, body size, training volume, and previous injury. Injury prevention strategies currently emphasize participation limitations and sport-specific training programs in skeletally immature athletes. The most effective treatment after an overuse physeal injury was an extended period of active rest and joint immobilization when necessary.

Conclusion:

Overuse physeal injuries are multifactorial in nature. Muscular imbalances after accelerated growth periods predispose young athletes to overuse injuries. Modifiable risk factors such as flexibility, strength, and training volume should be regularly monitored to prevent these injuries.
Aligning Yoga With Its Evolving Role in Health Care: Comments on Yoga Practice, Policy, Research
Authors: Patwardhan Avinash R.
Published: February 2017

Evidence is accumulating that suggests that yoga has beneficial effects in mitigating the impact of certain diseases. As a result, efforts are being made to medicalize yoga and use it within integrative medicine as a therapy. However, there are substantial shortcomings in the practice, policy, and research of yoga that undermine its optimal use. Yoga as a modality functions within a context. Therefore, it is important to occasionally step back and examine the entirety of the context from a high vantage to assess whether the tactical and programmatic endeavors are aligned with the strategic intended purpose. This commentary discusses a few policy issues relevant to some key stakeholders. It suggests that yoga therapists need to calibrate their model of yoga by reducing emphasis on postures and increasing it on meditation and breathing exercises while catering to clients with chronic conditions. It recommends that yoga research should be more critical in evaluating yoga’s fundamental tenets and use reductionist approach to do so. It proposes that autonomous regulators should extricate injury prone postures from the body of yoga practice for regulatory purposes, rather than regulate yoga summarily. It is suggested that payers should pay for yoga. However, they should use payment model as it is used for vaccination, instead of paying as it is done for physiotherapy. It concludes that yoga can help, but before it can help it needs help itself, and the various stakeholders need to reflect on the big picture so that they can collaborate on these improvements.
Anesthetic considerations in scoliosis patient with dopa-responsive dystonia or Segawa’s syndrome
Authors: Hasan M Shahnaz , Leong Kok Weng , Chan Chris Yin Wei , Kwan Mun Keong
Published: February 2017

Segawa’s syndrome or dopa-responsive dystonia is a rare hereditary disorder characterized by progressive dystonia of childhood onset, diurnal fluctuation of symptoms and complete or near complete alleviation of symptoms with administration of low-dose oral levodopa. From our literature search in PubMed, we found only three related publications: two on anesthesia for cesarean section and one on anesthesia for electroconvulsive therapy. We report our experience in providing anesthesia for corrective scoliosis surgery in two biological sisters with Segawa’s syndrome. A review of the literature is also included.
Volatility Spillovers between Foreign Exchange Markets of India and China
Authors: Kumar Surender , Dublish Puneet , Haque Moon Moon
Published: February 2017

In this work, we have examined the volatility and disproportionate influence in foreign exchange markets of India and China, using daily data for the period 10 January 2006 to 23 October 2015. Generalised autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (GARCH) models are used to examine the volatility spillover between two markets. Exponential GARCH (EGARCH) model was utilised to catch the effect of good and bad news. Study revealed the bidirectional volatility and disproportionate influence among these markets during the period under observation. This examination would be useful to speculators and policymakers of the money-related markets to support hazard in current situation.
Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction Femoral Tunnel Accuracy
Authors: Hiemstra Laurie A. , Kerslake Sarah , Lafave Mark
Published: February 2017

Background:

Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is a procedure aimed to reestablish the checkrein to lateral patellar translation in patients with symptomatic patellofemoral instability. Correct femoral tunnel position is thought to be crucial to successful MPFL reconstruction, but the accuracy of this statement in terms of patient outcomes has not been tested.

Purpose:

To assess the accuracy of femoral tunnel placement in an MPFL reconstruction cohort and to determine the correlation between tunnel accuracy and a validated disease-specific, patient-reported quality-of-life outcome measure.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Between June 2008 and February 2014, a total of 206 subjects underwent an MPFL reconstruction. Lateral radiographs were measured to determine the accuracy of the femoral tunnel by measuring the distance from the center of the femoral tunnel to the Schöttle point. Banff Patella Instability Instrument (BPII) scores were collected a mean 24 months postoperatively.

Results:

A total of 155 (79.5%) subjects had adequate postoperative lateral radiographs and complete BPII scores. The mean duration of follow-up (±SD) was 24.4 ± 8.2 months (range, 12-74 months). Measurement from the center of the femoral tunnel to the Schöttle point resulted in 143 (92.3%) tunnels being categorized as “good” or “ideal.” There were 8 failures in the cohort, none of which occurred in malpositioned tunnels. The mean distance from the center of the MPFL tunnel to the center of the Schöttle point was 5.9 ± 4.2 mm (range, 0.5-25.9 mm). The mean postoperative BPII score was 65.2 ± 22.5 (range, 9.2-100). Pearson r correlation demonstrated no statistically significant relationship between accuracy of femoral tunnel position and BPII score ( r = –0.08; 95% CI, –0.24 to 0.08).

Conclusion:

There was no evidence of a correlation between the accuracy of MPFL reconstruction femoral tunnel in relation to the Schöttle point and disease-specific quality-of-life scores. Graft failure was not related to femoral tunnel placement. The patellofemoral instability population is complex, and patients present with multiple risk factors that, in addition to the accuracy of femoral tunnel position, contribute to quality of life and warrant further investigation.
Wealth inequality, redistribution and local development: The case of land reform in Italy
Authors: Percoco Marco
Published: February 2017

The role of wealth inequality for local development has long been neglected, although some literature has pointed out its relevance in explaining entrepreneurial and education investment. Among the typologies of assets composing individuals’ wealth, land is of paramount importance in underdeveloped economies specialised in agriculture. Land reforms in terms of redistribution of land ownership are hence expected to boost development through an increase in entrepreneurship rate and human capital stock. In this paper, we consider land reform in Italy, which took place in the 1950s in specific areas across the country. By adopting an Oaxaca-Blinder regression method and using data at a city level on the implementation of the reform for Puglia–Basilicata–Molise in the South of Italy and, as robustness checks, for Maremma in the Centre and Delta del Po in the North of Italy, we have found a positive impact of land redistribution on human capital accumulation and a less significant impact on employment and firm location.
Learning from community indicators movements: Towards a citizen-powered urban data revolution
Authors: Moreno Pires Sara , Magee Liam , Holden Meg
Published: February 2017

This paper explores current debates, data products and key implications of what has been called the urban data revolution, which has emerged to international prominence in recent years. We engage with critical appraisals of the new urban data revolution, and discuss what they can learn from both the successes and the failures of the earlier wave of data enthusiasm, the community indicators movement. Second, we analyse the different challenges, dangers and implications of the urban data revolution that both complicate and can sustain a citizen-centred vision of good city governance. We further consider the potential for deliberation and participation in the use of data to define and measure urban progress and success. In the face of a mounting volume and velocity of urban data, these lessons nonetheless pose democratic challenges to the urban data revolution today.
Days out of role due to common physical and mental conditions in Portugal: Results from the WHO World Mental Health Survey
Authors: Cardoso Graça , Xavier Miguel , Vilagut Gemma , Petukhova Maria , Alonso Jordi , Kessler Ronald C. , Caldas-de-Almeida José Miguel
Published: February 2017

Background

One important aspect of the societal burden of mental disorders is the extent to which these problems cause disability.

Aims

To assess days out of role associated with commonly occurring mental disorders in comparison with physical disorders in Portugal.

Method

National cross-sectional survey, with home interviews carried out with 3849 adult (aged 18+) respondents (57.3% response rate).

Results

Twelve-month prevalence for any mental disorder was 21.8%, any physical disorder 55.1% and any disorder 63.1%, with an average of 2.3 disorders per respondent with a disorder. Close to one out of every 10 respondents (9.2%) reported at least one day totally out of role in the past month (median of 6.4 days/any). The 18 conditions accounted for 78.2% of all days out of role, with 20.2% because of mental disorders and 59.2% because of physical disorders.

Conclusions

Mental disorders account for a substantial proportion of all role disability in the Portuguese population. Early detection and intervention would have a positive societal effect. Owing to highly frequent comorbidity, simultaneous management of mental and physical disorder comorbidities is advised for greater effect.
Towards trans-diagnostic mechanisms in psychiatry: Neurobehavioral profile of rats with a loss of function point mutation in the dopamine transporter gene
Authors: Vengeliene Valentina , Bespalov Anton , Roßmanith Martin , Horschitz Sandra , Berger Stefan , Relo Ana L. , Noori Hamid R. , Schneider Peggy , Enkel Thomas , Bartsch Dusan , Schneider Miriam , Behl Berthold , Hansson Anita C. , Schloss Patrick , Spanagel Rainer
Published: February 2017

The Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) matrix has been developed to reorient psychiatric research towards measurable behavioral dimensions and underlying mechanisms. Here we used a new genetic rat model with a loss of function point mutation in the dopamine transporter (DAT) gene (Slc6a3_N157K) to systematically study the RDoC matrix (www.nimh.nih.gov/research-priorities/rdoc/constructs/rdoc-matrix.shtml). First, we examined the impact of the Slc6a3_N157K mutation on monoaminergic signaling. We then performed behavioral tests representing each of the five RDoC domains – negative and positive valence systems, cognitive, social, and in arousal/regulatory systems. The use of RDoC may be particularly helpful for drug development. We studied the effects of a novel pharmacological approach, metabotropic glutamate receptor mGluR2/3 antagonism, in DAT mutants in a comparative way with standard medications. Loss of DAT functionality in mutant rats not only elevated subcortical extracellular dopamine concentration but also altered the balance of monoaminergic transmission. DAT mutant rats showed deficits in all five RDoC domains. Thus, mutant rats failed to show conditioned fear responses, were anhedonic, were unable to learn stimulus-reward associations, showed impaired cognition and social behavior, and were hyperactive. Hyperactivity in mutant rats was reduced by amphetamine and atomoxetine, well-established medications to reduce hyperactivity in humans. mGluR2/3 antagonist LY341495 also normalized hyperactivity in DAT mutant rats without affecting extracellular dopamine levels. We systematically characterized an altered dopamine system within the context of RDoC matrix and studied mGluR2/3 antagonism as a new pharmacological strategy to treat mental disorders with underlying subcortical dopaminergic hyperactivity.
Key pointers on patient safety and prescribing practice
Authors: Brown Sharron
Published: February 2017

As more aesthetic nurses become independent prescribers, it is important for them to continue making evidence-based clinical decisions and refer on to other specialists in cases of uncertainty. Reflecting on nursing and public health guidance, the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses' secretary, Sharron Brown, reviews the requirements for prescribers in aesthetic practice
Rejuvenation and enhancement: considerations for male and female faces
Authors: Scanlon Chérie
Published: February 2017

Understanding gendered differences in facial ageing processes is essential for successful treatment outcomes. As the male aesthetic market expands, gaining expertise in treatment strategies, product selection and marketing approaches for men provides an excellent opportunity for aesthetic nurses' development. Chérie Scanlon explores sexual dimorphism in relation to facial rejuvenation
Developing the practice manager workforce
Authors: Hancock Dave
Published: February 2017

Following the announcement of the general practice development programme as part of the General Practice Forward View, Dave Hancock looks at the training available now and promised for the future
How much gain from all that pain?
Authors: Ainsworth Steve
Published: February 2017

Obesity is a serous public health problem and since the early 1990s, the NHS has been promoting ‘prescriptions for exercise’. But how effective are they? Steve Ainsworth takes a look at the evidence
Can intelligent clouds stem the tide?
Authors: Bensley Paul
Published: February 2017

In primary care, demand currently outstrips supply and will continue to do so. As a result, more patients will have to learn how to look after themselves at an earlier stage. What will this self-care look like in practical terms?
Primary motivation
Authors: Moffat Polly
Published: February 2017

Practice managers are in a key position to address falling morale among staff, but what are the tried and tested methods to encourage motivation?
The Comeback of Objects: On vacuum cleaners, plastic bottles, hair dryers, chairs, brooms, sand & other nonhuman performers on contemporary stages
Authors: Ruhsam Martina
Published: February 2017

The article scrutinizes the recent phenomenon of an increased involvement of things into contemporary choreographies and thematizes the relation between human and nonhuman performers. It traces a shift from semantic investigations of objects in the 1990s to agential realist approaches since about 2008. By referring to Bruno Latour's conception of things as actants and by introducing basic notions of actor-networktheory, the essay proposes a posthumanist understanding of performativity (as outlined by Karen Barad) and ponders about the ethical, political and ecological implications of posthumanist choreographies/dance.
Deleuze’s “Puppetry” and the Ethics of Non-human Compositions
Authors: Wiame Aline
Published: February 2017

While the presence of marionettes and automata in contemporary performing arts can sometimes manifest the fear of a loss of life and humanity due to the mechanization of our societies, this article calls for a more constructivist approach to the question. With the help of Gilles Deleuze’s propositions about marionettes and Heiner Goebbels’ performance Stifters Dinge, this paper aims to show that puppets and automata are invitations to create and compose new possibilities of being, sensing, thinking and resisting in a world made of human and non-human elements that constantly mix.
Actor and Puppet on the Contemporary Stage
Authors: Plassard Didier
Published: February 2017

The article discusses the changes in puppetry that occurred mostly in the second half of the 20th century. It addresses the changes in organization that led from small family groups to institutionalized public institutions and follows the organizational example of ensembles of drama theatre institutions, as well as changes in the relationship between the animator and the puppet that allow the disillusioning emergence of the animator into the visual field of the viewer. The “manipulator” who is no longer hidden influences the change in the manner of narration, in the aesthetic and the political senses both; at the same time, the qualitative difference between the manipulator as a living, physical and human being and the puppet on the other side is suddenly revealed. The article concludes by addressing the ethical dimension in the puppet theatre as it stresses the understanding of the puppet as the face of the other whose life is the responsibility of the human being. The article carries out its instructive review and theses with the help of several illustrative examples.
Expression of galectin-3 in adenoid cystic carcinoma & mucoepidermoid carcinoma of salivary glands- a study from Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Sunila , Rashid Siraj Muhammad , Anjum Rabia , Qureshi Ihtesham-ud-Din , Nagi A H , Naseem Nadia
Published: February 2017

Background: Adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC) and mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) are the commonest salivary gland malignancies in Pakistan constituting almost 75% of all malignant salivary gland tumours.Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the expression of galectin-3 (Gal-3) in AdCC and MEC of salivary glands and to see its relationship with histological differentiation in these tumours.Method: This descriptive study was conducted at the Department of Morbid Anatomy and Histopathology/ Oral Pathology, University of Health Sciences Lahore, Pakistan. Biopsies and detailed clinical data of 20 cases each of adenoid cystic carcinoma and mucoepidermoid carcinoma reported at local tertiary care hospitals from Jan. 2014 to Sep. 2015 were retrieved. The histologic diagnosis was made on Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. The tumours were graded into grades I, II & III according to the most recent grading criteria. AdCC was studied with respect to its morphological patterns (tubular, cribriform and solid) while MEC was studied with special concern to the cell types seen in it (mucous, intermediate, squamous and clear cells). Immunohistochemical expression of galectin-3 was determined in these tumours with respect to histological grades, patterns and cell types seen.Results: Moderate positivity (55%) for anti-galectin-3 antibody was the most frequently observed score for galectin-3 in both MEC and AdCC. Moderate positive (55%) staining reaction was followed by weak positive (30%) staining reaction in AdCC. Total score for antigalectin-3 antibody, positive stromal reaction (intensity) and location of cellular signals for anti-galectin-3 antibody were all found to be significantly associated with grades of AdCC. Also, histological pattern of AdCC (tubular, cribriform and solid) were significantly associated with type of anti-galectin-3 staining pattern of cells (p<0.001). In MEC, moderate positive (55%) staining for anti-galectin-3 antibody was followed by strong positive reaction (30%). The total score for anti-galectin-3 antibody was significantly associated with grades of the tumour and lymph node status. Also, the type of staining reaction in cells was significantly associated with cell type (mucous, squamous and intermediate cells).Conclusion: It can be concluded from the current study that expression of Gal-3 decreases with decreasing differentiation in parenchyma of malignant tumours while its expression in tumour extracellular environment increases with increasing grade of the tumour.Also, it can be concluded that nuclear expression of Gal-3 is associated tumour differentiation and cytoplasmic expression with tumour cell proliferation.
Modernism in Arab Sculpture. The Works of Mahmud Mukhtar (1891–1934)
Authors: Correa Calleja Elka M.
Published: February 2017

This article considers the work of Egyptian sculptor Mahmud Mukhtar (1891–1934) in a wider context than that of figurative art in the Arab world. Often, comparison between works of Egyptian artists and those of their Europeans counterparts has been avoided under the assumption that Arab artists were behind the times. This paper places Mukhtar within a broader artistic movement known as the “return to classical order”, a reaction against the avant-garde that was widespread during the interwar period. The “return to classical order” was not limited to Europe but involved other countries of the Mediterranean. In this context, we can say that Mukhtar belonged to a generation of international artists who wanted to recover the foundations of academic training. His reinterpretations of other statues and models always have an Egyptian touch, however. His works speak of a quest for national identity even as they deeply engage with the European Modernism of the interwar period.
Resplendence of al-Andalus
Authors: Giese Francine , Varela Braga Ariane , Lahoz Kopiske Helena , Kaufmann Katrin , Castro Royo Laura , Keller Sarah
Published: February 2017

This contribution presents preliminary results of the research project Mudejarismo and Moorish Revival in Europe (2014–2018), funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation and based at the University of Zurich. By focusing on the appropriation of Hispano-Islamic architecture and ornaments in Christian and Jewish contexts, the seven sub-chapters examine the underlying exchange and transfer processes in the Middle Ages and the Modern period, in relation to the complex and multi-faceted phenomena of cross-cultural appropriation and hybridization, as well as the current debates on otherness and national identity.
Risk analysis of the preanalytical process based on quality indicators data
Authors: Flegar-Meštrić Zlata , Perkov Sonja , Radeljak Andrea , Kardum Paro Mirjana Marijana , Prkačin Ingrid , Devčić-Jeras Ana
Published: February 2017

Background:

Improving quality and patient safety in the medical biochemistry laboratory accredited according to the International Standard Organization (ISO 15189:2012) requires the patient-centered evaluation of errors based on the implementation of quality indicators (QIs) across the total testing process. Our main goal was to achieve quality improvement of the preanalytical process in an emergency laboratory which had the highest error rate using risk management principles.

Methods:

Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) was applied to analyze predefined preanalytical QIs and score laboratory failures for the failure demerit value (FDV), probability of failure (PF) and probability of failure remedy (PFR). Based on obtained scores (on a 10-point scale) risk priority numbers (RPNs) were calculated.

Results:

A total of five failure modes were identified in the preanalytic process. The calculated risks were “sample hemolysis” (RPN, 168),“misidentified samples” (RPN, 108),“samples clotted” (RPN, 90),“sample volume error” (RPN, 72) and “samples transported at inappropriate temperature” (RPN, 24). The activation of corrective risk-reducing measures for failure modes with RPN≥30 resulted in quality improvement with the significant decrease in reevaluated RPNs.

Conclusions:

The implementation of a preanalytical quality monitoring system based on observation of evidence-based QIs and patient-centered evaluation of errors through risk analysis with regular tailored education as well as implementing process improvements can effectively reduce preanalytical errors in the emergency laboratory and improve patient safety.
Perceived Ontological Levels and Language Games
Authors: Stables Andrew
Published: February 2017

This paper argues against assuming that analysis, in the sense of breaking things into their constituent parts, can result in understanding of either universal truths or unequivocal local realities. “Analysis” most commonly refers to the process of looking into things to identify their constituent parts and the relations between them. To Kant, an analytic fact is self-evident. However, a phenomenon is only recognized as such at particular ontological, or perceptual, levels; when approached as a series of sub-phenomena, the question to which we are responding is not “what is this made of,” so much as “what are you reminded of when you look into this?” Therefore, analysis is a process of semiotic interpretation rather than pure logic: the response to a series of prompts in a particular context, where those responses are individual variations on sociocultural habits of response. Analysis is therefore analogical and intersubjective, and this should be recognized within educational and scholarly practices. On this account, ontological levels are better understood as perceptual levels. Analysis should therefore be preceded by explanatory sensitivity, as construals of any entity are dependent on the contexts that locate that entity. Some practical examples and implications for education are offered.
On Broken Glass: For a Semiotics of Anti-Materiality
Authors: Leone Massimo
Published: February 2017

Scholars have mostly focused on “positive materiality,” studying the meaning of materials and techniques in the production of artifacts. Matter, however, means not only when it is shaped into materiality but also when it is destroyed. The essay that follows is meant to represent a first tentative enquiry into the meaning of anti-materiality. The study of destroyed artifacts aims at pointing out that matter is always materiality. It always conserves a shadow of meaning, independently from how profoundly its earlier form was disintegrated. The crepuscular significance of damaged materials has mostly escaped the attention of scholars. The essay attempts an initial exploration of it, proposing a condensed cultural history of broken glass. It therefore seeks to combine, in the same exposition, a chronological and a structural overview of broken glass, from Greco-Roman antiquity until early modernity.
Biomass processing into ethanol: pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, rheology, and mixing
Authors: Volynets Bohdan , Ein-Mozaffari Farhad , Dahman Yaser
Published: February 2017

Alternate energy resources need to be developed to amend for depleting fossil fuel reserves. Lignocellulosic biomass is a globally available renewable feedstock that contains a rich sugar platform that can be converted into bioethanol through appropriate processing. The key steps of the process, pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, and fermentation, have undergone considerable amount of research and development over the past decades nearing the process to commercialization. In order for the commercialization to be successful, the process needs to be operated at high dry matter content of biomass, especially in the enzymatic hydrolysis stage that influences ethanol concentration in the final fermentation broth. Biomass becomes a thick paste with challenging rheology for mixing to be effective. As the biomass consistency increases, yield stress increases which limits efficiency of mixing with conventional stirred tanks. The purpose of this review is to provide features and perspectives on processing of biomass into ethanol. Emphasis is placed on rheology and mixing of biomass in the enzymatic hydrolysis step as one of the forefront issues in the field.
Design and synthesis of 4,5-diaryl/heteroarylthiophene-2-carboxylic acid derivatives and evaluation of their biological activities
Authors: Arasavelli Ananda Mohan , Raghava Ganapavarapu Sharma Veera , Vidavalur Siddaiah
Published: February 2017

Synthesis, characterization and biological activity of novel 4,5-diaryl/heteroaryl thiophene-2-carboxylic acid derivatives are described. Aryl/heteroaryl esters were converted to substituted thiophene esters via a Vilsmeier-Haack reaction, which were then hydrolyzed to 4,5-diaryl/heteroaryl thiophene-2-carboxylic acid derivatives 8a–h. All products were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR and MS. Antibacterial activity of the synthesized compounds against two Gram-positive and two Gram-negative bacteria, as well as their anticancer activity against PC-3 cell line (human prostate cancer cell lines) were evaluated.
Identity and its reconstruction and disabled people
Authors: Lejzerowicz Magda
Published: February 2017

A disabled person with acquired disability must manage to cope with social identity, reconstruct their identity and construct own biography from scratch. People with inborn disability create their identity of a disabled person from the beginning. They are educated to play a role of a person with disabilities in society. The stigma of disability remains with a disabled person forever. Disability becomes the central category determining the social identity of these individuals. The problems which were raised are connected with setting up the line between personal and social identity, between satisfying the need of being unique and the need to belong, between defining a person through the prism of stigma and perceiving them as representative of the specific type of personality. The mark of the person with disability that this disability imprints in their life is the best known only by the people who live with it. The article is an attempt to answer questions: Is it possible to manage the social identity or does the disabled person need to reconstruct their identity or construct their biography from scratch? What are the chances of dealing with disability stigma?
Improving civil–military coordination in humanitarian logistics: the challenge
Authors: Heaslip Graham E. , Barber Elizabeth
Published: February 2017

Within the emerging field of humanitarian logistics, the civil–military logistical interface has achieved only minimal attention in academic literature even though most western nations have a civil–military division within their defence departments. Due to fundamental differences between humanitarian and development agencies and international military forces in terms of the principles and doctrines guiding their work, their agendas, operating styles and roles, the area of civil–military logistical coordination in humanitarian relief has proven to be more difficult than other interagency relationships. This paper presents recent research that proposes a model for logistics requirements in humanitarian operations, taking account of where and how civil–military involvement can be most effective and efficient across all phases of humanitarian operations. Interviews were conducted with key personnel in humanitarian and military organisations. The model proposed here, appears to be robust and workable in a range of geopolitical and operational circumstances. We show that the greatest impact of military involvement is most beneficial in the initial crucial life sustaining days immediately after natural disasters. In contrast in manmade complex emergencies, military assistance to the logistical provision of aid is more beneficial when widespread military expertise is provided.
Decoloration of azo dye methyl orange by a novel electro-Fenton internal circulation batch reactor
Authors: Yang Chunwei , Wang Dong , Tang Qian , Sun Yuwei
Published: February 2017

A novel internal circulation batch reactor (ICBR) was utilized to treat an azo dye pollutant methyl orange (MO) solution by the Electro-Fenton process, with graphite rods as the anodes and metal processing waste iron shavings as the cathodes. The MO decoloration efficiency reached 98.6 % for 0.08 g L
Design and Analysis of Experiments in Networks: Reducing Bias from Interference
Authors: Eckles Dean , Karrer Brian , Ugander Johan
Published: February 2017

Estimating the effects of interventions in networks is complicated due to interference, such that the outcomes for one experimental unit may depend on the treatment assignments of other units. Familiar statistical formalism, experimental designs, and analysis methods assume the absence of this interference, and result in biased estimates of causal effects when it exists. While some assumptions can lead to unbiased estimates, these assumptions are generally unrealistic in the context of a network and often amount to assuming away the interference. In this work, we evaluate methods for designing and analyzing randomized experiments under minimal, realistic assumptions compatible with broad interference, where the aim is to reduce bias and possibly overall error in estimates of average effects of a global treatment. Indesign, we consider the ability to perform random assignment to treatments that is correlated in the network, such as through graph cluster randomization. Inanalysis, we consider incorporating information about the treatment assignment of network neighbors. We prove sufficient conditions for bias reduction through both design and analysis in the presence of potentially global interference; these conditions also give lower bounds on treatment effects. Through simulations of the entire process of experimentation in networks, we measure the performance of these methods under varied network structure and varied social behaviors, finding substantial bias reductions and, despite a bias–variance tradeoff, error reductions. These improvements are largest for networks with more clustering and data generating processes with both stronger direct effects of the treatment and stronger interactions between units.
Groups as Persons? A Suggestion for a Hegelian Turn
Authors: Hirvonen Onni
Published: February 2017

Christian List and Philip Pettit have recently argued for a performative theory of personhood in which all agents who manage to perform in the space of obligations are taken as persons. Based on this account they claim that group agents are also persons. This theory has been challenged on the grounds of its historical accuracy, lack of political relevance, and contestability of the concept of personhood. This paper aims to take a new perspective on the debate by approaching it through the Hegelian idea of recognition. The claim is that recognition theory provides a multi-dimensional view of personhood that gives a clearer account of what is at stake with collective personhood.
Linking childhood allergic asthma phenotypes with endotype through integrated systems biology: current evidence and research needs
Authors: Choi Hyunok , Song Won-Min , Zhang Bin
Published: February 2017

Asthma and other complex diseases results from a complex web of interactions involving inflammation, immunity, cell cycle, apoptosis, and metabolic perturbations across multiple organ systems. The extent to which various degrees of the age at onset, symptom severity, and the natural progression of the disease reflect multiple disease subtypes, influenced by unique process of development remains unknown. One of the most critical challenges to our understanding stems from incomplete understanding of the mechanisms. Within this review, we focus on the phenotypes of childhood allergic asthma as the basis to better understand the endotype for quantitative define subtypes of asthma. We highlight some of the known mechanistic pathways associated with the key hallmark events before the asthma onset. In particular, we examine how the recent advent of multiaxial -omics technologies and systems biology could help to clarify our current understanding of the pathway. We review how a large volume of molecular, genomic data generated by multiaxial technologies could be digested to identify cogent pathophysiologic molecular networks. We highlight some recent successes in application of these technologies within the context of other disease conditions for therapeutic interventions. We conclude by summarizing the research needs for the predictive value of preclinical biomarkers.
„Welch’ eine arme Sau“: Fremdverstehen, Emotionsregulation und die kommunikative Konstruktion interpersonaler Vergebung
Authors: Fücker Sonja , von Scheve Christian
Published: February 2017

Im Gegensatz zu Rache und Vergeltung ist Vergebung als zentrale Bewältigungsstrategie interpersonaler Konflikte bislang nicht zum Gegenstand der soziologischen Forschung geworden. Auf der Grundlage einer qualitativen Fallstudie widmet sich der vorliegende Beitrag daher der Frage, welche sozialen Bedeutungsdimensionen für die Vergebung nicht justiziabler Vergehen konstitutiv sind. Unsere Ergebnisse zeigen, dass mögliche Reaktionen auf solche Vergehen durch ambivalente und zum Teil widersprüchliche Verhaltenserwartungen gekennzeichnet sind, die bei Betroffenen deutliche emotionale Irritationen hervorrufen. Aus wissenssoziologischer Perspektive illustrieren wir dann am Beispiel von Interaktionsverläufen, in denen moralische Bewertungen eine zentrale Rolle spielen, dass gelingende Vergebungsakte von der Regulierung und Transformation bestimmter Emotionen abhängen. Diese Emotionen können als Referenzpunkte des Fremdverstehens im Kontext solcher Vergehen verstanden werden und legen ein Verständnis von Vergebung als genuin sozial interaktives Geschehen nahe.
Caracterización molecular de maíces locales de la Reserva de la Biosfera La Sepultura, México.
Authors: Hernández-Ramos Manuel Antonio , Rodríguez-Larramendi Luis A. , Guevara-Hernández Francisco , Rosales-Esquianca María De los Ángeles , Pinto-Ruiz René , Ortiz-Pérez Rodobaldo
Published: February 2017

El objetivo de este trabajo fue la caracterización molecular y logenética de poblaciones de maíces locales de la Reserva de la Biosfera La Sepultura (REBISE), México. Se colectaron diecinueve poblaciones de maíz en nueve comunidades de la REBISE durante el ciclo agrícola 2012-2013. Se incluyeron además, dos variedades comerciales (VS-536 y VS-424), un híbrido comercial (H-MX3), un maíz recientemente introducido (Costeño), dos materiales de las razas Cónico chalqueño y elotes cónicos, y un teocintle (Zea mays ssp. Mexicana). En total fueron 26 muestras diferentes. La caracterización se realizó mediante RCP con marcadores inter-microsatélites (ISSR). Se ampli caron 113 fragmentos, en un rango de 150 a 2200 pb de los cuales 85,8% fueron polimór cos. Las secuencias “AG”, “AC” y “GAA” tuvieron mayor número de bandas ampli cadas y mayor polimor smo. Los cebadores UBC834, I9 y UBC868 fueron los que mejor ampli caron. Las similitudes dentro de las bandas polimór cas pueden deberse a su igualdad como variedades, razas, especie, o al efecto de su polinización cruzada. El dendograma obtenido mostró una correlación cofenética relativamente baja (r=0,721) con un grado de con abilidad bajo; no obstante, se integran claramente cuatro grupos principales. El primero se denominó maíces de Valles Altos, caracterizada por la raza cónico Chalqueño y Elotes cónicos; el segundo se identi có por tener como ancestro común el Teocintle; el tercero contuvo el híbrido comercial H-MX3; y el cuarto comprendió los maíces locales de la REBISE y las variedades comerciales (Vs-536 y Vs-424).
Aceites vegetales sobre ácidos grasos y producción de metano in vitro en vacas lecheras.
Authors: Prieto-Manrique Esperanza , Vargas-Sánchez Julio Ernesto , Angulo-Arizala Joaquín , Mahecha Ledesma Liliana
Published: February 2017

El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la adición de aceites vegetales en dietas representativas de vacas lecheras bajo pastoreo, sobre los ácidos grasos, fermentación ruminal y producción de metano in vitro. La investigación se desarrolló en el laboratorio NUTRILAB–GRICA, perteneciente a la Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia, en agosto del 2013. Se utilizó la técnica de producción de gas in vitro. En cuatro dietas (dos de monocultivo en Cynodon plectostachyus y dos de sistema silvopastoril intensivo con Leucaena leucocephala), se evaluó la adición de tres aceites vegetales (girasol, lino y palma) a nivel del 2 y 4% de la MS, en un diseño completamente al azar con arreglo factorial de 4x3x2. En todas las dietas, la suplementación con aceite de girasol aumentó el contenido de ácido linoleico (C18:2 c9,12), ácido linoleico conjugado (ALC-c9t11) y ácido transvaccénico (ATV, C18:1 t11) después de la fermentación (p<0,0001), redujo en 2,4 y 0,9% la digestibilidad de la MS con respecto a aceite de palma (p<0,05) y lino (p>0,05). Ningún aceite afectó la cinética de fermentación, pH, total de ácidos grasos volátiles (AGV), proporción de AGV, ni la producción de metano.
Extracción de nutrientes por los frutos de cacao en dos localidades en Costa Rica.
Authors: Furcal Beriguete Parménides
Published: February 2017

El objetivo de la presente investigación fue analizar la extracción de nutrientes en frutos de clones de cacao (Theobroma cacao). El estudio se hizo en plantaciones de cacao de siete años, en las localidades de Katira, Guatuso y el Centro Agronómico Tropical de Investigación y Enseñanza (CATIE), Turrialba, Costa Rica, entre los meses de marzo a agosto del año 2014. El diseño experimental utilizado fue completamente al azar con tres repeticiones; para el análisis se mezclaron por separado las semillas y la cáscara de tres frutos, para formar una repetición de cada uno de los siete clones de cacao seleccionados por el CATIE por su tolerancia a moniliasis (Moniliophthora roreri), calidad y altos rendimientos. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que de una tonelada de semillas secas de estos clones, incluyendo la cáscara del fruto, se extraen entre 33,45 a 37,80 kg de nitrógeno (N), entre 40,35 y 50,64 kg de potasio (K), y de fósforo (P) en un rango de 7,33 a 8,37 kg. El orden de extracción de los nutrientes fue: K>N>P>Mg>Ca>Mn>Fe>Zn>B=Cu.
Área foliar del yacón (Smallanthus sonchifolius (Poep. & Endl.) H. Rob.) estimada mediante método indirecto.
Authors: Seminario-Cunya Juan Francisco , Oblitas-Edquén Israel , Escalante-Zumaeta Bernardo
Published: February 2017

El objetivo de este trabajo fue estimar el área foliar de ocho morfotipos de yacón mediante análisis de regresión lineal simple. La investigación se realizó entre los años 2014 y 2015, en el Programa de Raíces y Tubérculos Andinos de la Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca, Perú (7° 10’ 00’’ S, 78° 30’00’’ W, 2650 msnm). Se tomaron cien hojas de cada morfotipo, incluyendo hojas de los estratos basal, medio y terminal de plantas en plena oración. Las siluetas de las hojas frescas se dibujaron en papel y se midió el largo (L) y ancho mayor de la lámina (W). El área medida (o real) de la lámina se determinó con planímetro digital. Con el área medida (variable dependiente) y los valores de largo, ancho, largo al cuadrado, ancho al cuadrado, largo x ancho y largo/ancho (como variables independientes), se realizó el análisis de regresión para cada morfotipo. En todos los morfotipos, excepto en dos, las mejores ecuaciones para estimar el área foliar, fueron aquellas en donde intervino el producto de L x W. La ecuación A= 20,41 + 0,4167 (L x W) (r2 = 0,89) permitió estimar el área foliar de los ocho morfotipos en conjunto. El área del peciolo de los morfotipos en estudio signi có 15%, respecto del área total de la hoja.