bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DIAS, Agemir de Carvalho. Sociologia da Religião: introdução às teorias sociológicas sobre o fenômeno religioso. São Paulo: Paulinas, 2012.
Authors: Stigar Robson
Published: March 2018

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Abordagens filosóficas sobre Deus
Authors: De Aquino Júnior Francisco
Published: March 2018

O artigo trata da problemática da abordagem filosófica sobre Deus, destacando sua importância na filosofia e apresentando, a partir de filósofos de diferentes épocas e diferentes perspectivas, três modelos teóricos de abordagem filosófica sobre Deus: abordagem cosmológica ou naturalista (Tomás de Aquino), abordagem antropológico-subjetivista (René Descartes) e abordagem práxica (Xavier Zubiri). De cada uma dessas abordagens o artigo explicita suas características fundamentais, apresenta sua formulação em determinado filósofo e conclui com uma apreciação crítica.
Diode laser in the surgical treatment of inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia: Case report and literature review
Authors: Andriola Fernando De Oliveira , Zanettini Leonardo Matos Santolim , De Marco Ricardo Giacomini , Kunz Camila , Vaz Cássia Dos Santos Machado , Pagnoncelli Rogério Miranda
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVE: This article presents a case of inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia (IFH) treated by diode laser surgery, as well as a review of the literature about this pathology.CASE DESCRIPTION: A 55-year-old woman was referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, School of Dentistry, complaining of a discomfort on swallowing due to a soft-tissue mass in the oral cavity that had been developing for approximately 3 years. Intraoral examination revealed multiple exophytic, pedunculated lesions with a smooth surface and pinkish in color, affecting almost the entire right cheek mucosa. The lesion turned out to be a IFH by histopatology. Surgical removal of IFH of the oral mucosa using a diode laser was performed. The lesion was removed in 3 sessions. The patient reported no local symptoms after each irradiation. The clinical appearance 10 months after the last irradiation session demonstrated complete healing and no signals of recurrence.CONCLUSION: Based on the results obtained, we can conclude that diode laser radiation contributes significantly to the advancement of oral surgery and should be considered a valuable resource for the treatment of soft-tissue lesions in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Assessment of antimicrobial activity of sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite and grape seed extract against Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Soligo Larissa Taís , Cecchin Doglas , Souza Matheus Albino , Gabrielli Ezequiel Santin , Palhano Huriel Scartazzini , Farina Ana Paula
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the antimicrobial action of calcium hypochlorite [Ca(OCl)2] at concentrations of 2.5% and 6%, and of grape seed extract (GSE) at concentrations of 10%, 30%, and 50%, against Enterococcus faecalis, comparing it to the action of 6% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl).METHODS: Saline solution was used as negative control. The inhibition halos of microbial growth were verified by the agar disk diffusion method. Twelve Petri plates were used for seeding with culture medium of approximately 5 mm in thickness. In each plate, 5 disks of pure and sterile antibiogram, soaked in the substances to be tested, were used and taken to the plate containing the seededbacterial strain. The plates remained in aerobic bacteriological incubator for 24 h at 37°C temperature. After 24 h, the inhibition halos were measured with a digital caliper. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used for statistical analysis followed by Tukey's complementary test, at 5% significance.RESULTS: The 6% Ca(ClO)2 presented inhibition halo statistically higher than the other solutions (p<0.05), followed by 2.5% Ca(ClO)2, which was statistically similar to 6% NaOCl (p>0.05). The GSE concentrations resulted in lower inhibition halos of active substances and the different concentrations were similar to each other. Lastly, saline solution presented the same inhibition halos in all groups (p<0.05).CONCLUSION: It may be concluded that 6% Ca(OCl)2 presented higher antimicrobial activity than 6% NaOCl. On the other hand, all GSE concentrations were lower than NaOCl and Ca(OCl)2.
Criaturas de papel: a construção de duas personagens de Arthur Schnitzler
Authors: Wertheimer Ana Maria
Published: March 2018

Este artigo analisa os recursos utilizados por Arthur Schnitzler (1862-1931) para a compor a obra Senhorita Else (1924). Os diálogos, as cartas e o monólogo interior contam (ou mostram) a história da bonita jovem que tem nas mãos o destino da família endividada: Else vê-se pressionada a ceder ao pedido do inescrupuloso Sr. von Dorsday para obter o dinheiro que evitará a prisão do pai. Com base no estudo sobre a construção da personagem apresentado por Beth Brait (2006) e nas considerações acerca do fluxo de consciência feitas pelo crítico francês Michel Zéraffa (2010), para quem Schnitzler foi um dos autênticos precursores de Joyce e Faulkner, é feita uma comparação entre Else e o tenente Wilhelm Kasda, protagonista da novela Aurora (1926), obra posterior do mesmo autor.
O papel do conhecimento de eventos no processamento de sentenças isoladas
Authors: Godoy Mahayana Cristina , Vieira Cláudia Brandão , Andrade Guilherme Luiz , De Souza Filho Neemias , Nunes Marcus Alexandre
Published: March 2018

O presente artigo tem como objetivo investigar o papel do conhecimento de eventos no processamento linguístico. Evidências empíricas obtidas através de estudos em psicolinguística argumentam que o conhecimento de eventos faz parte de uma coleção de pistas pragmáticas que impactam o processo de compreensão da linguagem. No entanto, o experimento de leitura autocadenciada que conduzimos para investigar a questão não registra qualquer efeito nesse sentido, indicando que o conhecimento de evento, se acessado, não influenciou o processamento de palavras específicas em sentenças isoladas e de contexto preditivo. Considerando que tal resultado contraria uma série de achados prévios, argumentamos que (a) a natureza do efeito documentado por estudos anteriores precisa ser melhor explicada e explorada; (b) o modo de apresentação dos itens experimentais pode levar à adoção de estratégias distintas de processamento, o que explicaria a divergência de resultados; (c) algumas técnicas como leitura autocadenciada podem não ser sensíveis para captar o mesmo efeito registrado por meio de outros paradigmas. Embora a segunda explicação pareça mais razoável para dar conta de nossos dados, apenas futuras pesquisas poderão decidir pela sua validade.
O vazio da cidade e os afetos dos lugares em Poema sujo de Ferreira Gullar
Authors: Dos Santos Silvana Maria Pantoja
Published: March 2018

Este trabalho propõe analisar a relação entre homem e cidade com ênfase nos espaços de referência na obra Poema sujo, de Ferreira Gullar. Para tanto, levamos em conta a distância temporal entre o contexto da cidade provinciana, das vivências do sujeito poético e da urbe, remodelada pelo progresso. Nessa conjuntura, a cidade passara a ser marcada pela visão fragmentada e por formas diferentes de convivência: os fios da rede de relações ancorados no espírito coletivo se desprenderam, gerando, no contexto urbano, desenraizamento, perda de referência, individualização e esfacelamento da memória. É nesse contexto de fluidez, de valorização do efêmero, cuja regra é a rapidez e tudo parece descartável, que a cidade se molda. As rupturas se desdobram em desmedidos deslocamentos, lacunas e desamparos.
THE MODEL OF INTEGRATIVE MANAGEMENT OF RURAL SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
Authors: ATKOČIŪNIENĖ Vilma , KIAUŠIENĖ Ilona
Published: March 2018

One of the most difficult problems encountered by social infrastructure development management in various countries of economic development is the search for RSI management interactions at the national, regional and local (municipal, neighborhood) levels. Traditional solutions to RSI development do not create opportunities for the coherence, viability and resilience of rural development. This article describes integrative management of rural social infrastructure (RSI), provides the analysis of RSI management processes and explanation of “triple bottom line”, determination of main principles required in order to achieve sustained development of the region. The main research objective, namely, creation of an integrative rural social infrastructure management model reached. The integrative RSI management conception based on four- tier governance cycle “plan-do-check-act” and internal governance functions. The functions RSI management are determination of consumer demand for RSI services and strategic development goals; planning of RSI services, means and results; organization of RSI services supply; horizontal and vertical coordination of RSI activities; assessment of RSI services consumers’ opinion and community sustainability; supervision and evaluation of RSI activities. The main research methods were used: analysis and generalization of scientific literature, logical and systematical reasoning, graphic presentation of comparison, abstracts and other methods.
CRITERIA OF ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF LAND STOCK MANAGEMENT
Authors: KHASAEV Gabibulla , VLASOV Alexandr , VASILIEVA Dariya , PARSOVA Velta
Published: March 2018

One of preconditions for sustainable socio-economic development of the region can be observed as much as possible involvement of land resources in economic turnover and increasing of efficiency of their use.
On the example of Samara region which is the subject of the Russian Federation are made proposals for establishment of criteria for assessment of economic efficiency of land management in specific area. Statistical data on collection of land payments (land tax and leasehold payment) in 27 municipalities of Samara region in 2004-2014 are analysed. There is investigated common information on Samara region - location, total land stock area, agricultural land area, distance between main city of region and territory, number of inhabitants, density of population, etc. Methods of mathematical statistics, regression and factor cluster analysis are used. During the research, methods of mathematical statistics, including correlation and regression analysis, were used. The indicators most influencing the volume of land payments are determined and is developed the model of coherence between level of payments and geographical and demographic characteristics of the municipality (according to the 2012-2014 data). The model allows to estimate the “normative level” for each region according to objective characteristics and to rank the regions according to this indicator. The level corresponding to such a ranking can be considered as a criterion for the effectiveness of land management taking into account the different potentialities of the municipal districts of the Samara region.
Land payments are local taxes, therefore they are an important source of the formation of financial basis of local governments in Russian Federation and play an important role in the socio-economic development of the regions.
MAIN DIRECTIONS OF DEVELOPMENT OF SPRING WHEAT PRODUCTION AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE ARABLE FARMING IN THE FOREST-STEPPE BELT OF THE MIDDLE VOLGA REGION
Authors: AMIROV Marat , SERZHANOV Igor , SHAYKHUTDINOV Farid , SEMUSHKIN Nicolay
Published: March 2018

The article presents results of studies of influence of controlled and environmental factors on production process of different varieties of spring wheat carried out in different soil and climatic conditions of Middle Volga region.
The forest-steppe area of the Volga region is one of regions of Russia favorable for spring wheat growing by its natural and climatic conditions. Unbalance of nutrition elements in soil, acid soil and predominantly heavy-textured soil hamper the yield growth. Out of all factors vital for plants (light, heat, moisture and nutrition elements) under consideration, providing plants with nutrition elements and moisture are those limiting high crop yields.
he objective of our studies is increasing the crop yield with the simultaneous decrease of the produced goods cost makes it necessary to calculate in advance the possible yield level depending on the influence of different factors: environmental, crop variety and etc. The aim of our studies was to develop methods of growing high yield and high quality crops of different varieties of wheat adjusted for conditions of the forest-steppe black soil in the Volga region. Methods of research using field and laboratory tests, the method of state variety tests of agricultural cultures, phenoldisulfonic acid method, finite difference method, disperse analysis method. A set of observations, records and analysis was carried out during the experiments with implementation Russian methodological guidelines and National State Standards. Statistical processing of the yield data, economic and energy estimates was carried out by the methods recommended by Russia Scientific Research Institute of Agricultural Economy and Union Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
Having carried out the analysis of natural resources and genetic potential of the wheat varieties, systems of plant nutrition optimization and influence of their predecessors, we have obtained new data about possibility of increasing the spring durum wheat arable area. We have shown the role of different forms of using nitrogenous fertilizers (on the background of phosphorus – potassium ones) in the increase of productivity and improvement of the spring wheat grain quality. An established optimal norm for Gramma variety spring spelt corn seeding has been established for the conditions of the grey forest soil in the Fore-Kama region of the Republic of Tatarstan and the influence of their nutrition on yield has been found.
THE SHARE OF AGRICULTURE IN GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS IN EUROPEAN UNION COUNTRIES – VALUATION
Authors: PRANDECKI Konrad , GAJOS Edyta
Published: March 2018

Reducing greenhouse gases emissions is one of the major environmental challenges of the modern world. The European Union (EU) has set itself ambitious reduction targets. Proper monitoring of emissions and its valuation is necessary to achieve this goal. In addition, valuation (in monetary terms) will help to raise awareness of the climate change costs among society.
The aim of this article is to present international comparisons within the EU covering the monitoring and valuation of aggregate emissions of selected greenhouse gases in general and in agriculture. The study uses Eurostat data for the years 2007-2015. The evaluation was based on the average annual price of carbon dioxide allowances under the European Union Emissions Trading System. Leipzig stock market data were used to determine the price.
The study compares the total greenhouse gas emissions and its value in different EU countries. These results show that the largest emitters in the EU are Germany, United Kingdom, France. A comparison of per capita and per GDP emissions results in an almost reversal of this order. The share of agriculture in greenhouse gas emissions was 11% in 2015 and ranged between countries from 3% (Malta) do 32% (Ireland). The results show also that the decline in value is greater than the decrease in emissions. This is due to the dramatic change in the price of allowances. The decrease in quantity of agricultural emission was 0,5%, whilst the decrease in value was 55,5% between years 2008 and 2015.
A korai ipari építészet mint a modern előfutára
Authors: Pilsitz Martin
Published: March 2018

A korai ipari építészet rendkívül összetett befolyást gyakorolt a 20. század építészetére. A századfordulón az ipari építészetben sikerült legkorábban a kulcstényezők – a funkció, a szerkezet és a formavilág – összehangolása, melyből végül meggyőző építészeti kifejezési forma fejlődött ki, melyet a további fejlődés során az építészet más területein is alkalmazni kezdtek. Az ipari építészet kifejeződési formáinak kritikátlan és reflektálatlan alkalmazása az építészet más területein, például a lakásépítés területén, azonban téves fejlődéshez vezetett, melynek következményei a mai napig érezhetőek.
Pros and cons. Professional and social reception of reconstructions in Hungary
Authors: Kóródy Anna Nóra
Published: March 2018

Building reconstruction has become a much used and disputed concept in the professional discourse of Hungarian heritage preservation. It is no accident that ongoing and future renovation projects have garnered much public attention, however, it is evincible that while the issues these opinions address seem consistent, certain typical arguments pro and contra appear to rest on different value priorities. Public discourse does not so much challenge the appropriacy of reconstruction as a method of heritage preservation, but the value that restored heritage conveys to us, and prioritizing its opportunities. There are considerable differences between various public and professional priorities, as well as the respective backgrounds of their opinions. In the paper it is presented in five chapters (through the keywords of historical embeddedness, social embeddedness, community identities, physical preservation and creative architectural methodology), that there are considerable incongruites in the professional and public reception and appreciation of reconstructionary heritage preservation projects – but the main lines of these heterogeneous perception can be outlined.
Autologous Plasma Enriched with Platelet Lysate for the Treatment of Idiopathic Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Prospective Study
Authors: Lykov A. P. , Poveshchenk O. V. , Surovtseva M. A. , Stanishevskaya O. M. , Chernykh D. V. , Arben’eva N. S. , Bratko V. I.
Published: March 2018

Background: Plasma enriched in growth factors is widely used in medical practice. However, the clinical efficacy of its application in the treatment of age-related retinal integrity violations is investigated insufficiently. Aims: The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of autologous plasma enriched with platelet lysate for treating age-related macular degeneration. Materials and methods: A three-port subtotal transconjunctival vitrectomy was performed and administration of the autologous plasma enriched with platelet lysate was indicated. Autologous plasma enriched with platelet lysate was received from the peripheral blood. We assessed visual acuity, intraocular pressure; conducted optical coherent tomography examination of the eye on the side of the pathological process. Results: The study demonstrated that the combination of a standard 3-port transconjunctival subtotal vitrectomy followed by tamponade of the gap using the autologous plasma enriched with platelet lysate with the injections of the autologous plasma enriched with platelet lysate in the area of pterygopalatine fossa on the side of the operated eyes statistically significantly promoted recovery of the visual acuity in the early postoperative period (15 days) and late period (90 days) if compared with patients who received only surgical treatment (p≤0.05). Use of the autologous plasma enriched with platelet lysate in the treatment increased the closing rate of the tearing of the retina in the macular region up to 62,5%, while only surgical treatment leads to the closure of the defect of the retina in 37.5% of cases. The study showed that autologous plasma enriched with platelet lysate contains cytokines, growth factors, and nitric oxide which are involved in the regeneration/reparation of the retina. Conclusions: Additional administration of the autologous plasma enriched with platelet lysate in the scheme of treatment patients with age-related macular degeneration is accelerating the closure of retinal tears of the eye and improves visual acuity.
Representations of Architecture in Lucas van Leyden’s Prints
Authors: Yayla Ayşegül
Published: March 2018

Categorization of Lucas van Leyden (1494-1533) is a matter of defining modern at the turn of the sixteenth century. His depiction of Late Gothic and Classic architectural forms in his prints shows an interaction between the Italian Renaissance and the Netherlandish traditions. The use of urban setting is to familiarize the viewer with the story. This technique of grabbing the attention of the viewer by situating him within the audience in the image is a traditional characteristic of medieval art. On the other hand, he employs the new method of Renaissance spatial perspective in order to create the three dimensional effect in the print. Ornaments work as metalingual elements giving away subtle information on the subject. A symbol exists by being a reference to a former incidence, which adds to the discussion of whether Lucas van Leyden was a Renaissance or an early modern artist. His concern is with the narrative rather than the idealistic illustration of architecture. His German contemporary Albrecht Dürer also appears to come and go in representing two styles of architecture. Therefore there will be a comparison between Lucas van Leyden, Albrecht Dürer and Italian contemporaries such as Perugino and Raphael. Yet it is still a question to where to position Lucas van Leyden.
ICE’s plan for engineering cleaner air in London focuses on cutting down construction pollution
Authors: Hansford Peter
Published: March 2018

ICE London published a major report on civil engineering solutions to London’s air pollution last year. Peter Hansford, chair of the report’s task force, introduces the report and its recommendations – particularly those relating to reducing pollution from construction sites.
Similar Biophysical Abnormalities in Glomeruli and Podocytes from Two Distinct Models
Authors: Embry Addie E. , Liu Zhenan , Henderson Joel M. , Byfield F. Jefferson , Liu Liping , Yoon Joonho , Wu Zhenzhen , Cruz Katrina , Moradi Sara , Gillombardo C. Barton , Hussain Rihanna Z. , Doelger Richard , Stuve Olaf , Chang Audrey N. , Janmey Paul A. , Bruggeman Leslie A. , Miller R. Tyler
Published: March 2018

Background FSGS is a pattern of podocyte injury that leads to loss of glomerular function. Podocytes support other podocytes and glomerular capillary structure, oppose hemodynamic forces, form the slit diaphragm, and have mechanical properties that permit these functions. However, the biophysical characteristics of glomeruli and podocytes in disease remain unclear.

Methods Using microindentation, atomic force microscopy, immunofluorescence microscopy, quantitative RT-PCR, and a three-dimensional collagen gel contraction assay, we studied the biophysical and structural properties of glomeruli and podocytes in chronic (Tg26 mice [HIV protein expression]) and acute (protamine administration [cytoskeletal rearrangement]) models of podocyte injury.

Results Compared with wild-type glomeruli, Tg26 glomeruli became progressively more deformable with disease progression, despite increased collagen content. Tg26 podocytes had disordered cytoskeletons, markedly abnormal focal adhesions, and weaker adhesion; they failed to respond to mechanical signals and exerted minimal traction force in three-dimensional collagen gels. Protamine treatment had similar but milder effects on glomeruli and podocytes.

Conclusions Reduced structural integrity of Tg26 podocytes causes increased deformability of glomerular capillaries and limits the ability of capillaries to counter hemodynamic force, possibly leading to further podocyte injury. Loss of normal podocyte mechanical integrity could injure neighboring podocytes due to the absence of normal biophysical signals required for podocyte maintenance. The severe defects in podocyte mechanical behavior in the Tg26 model may explain why Tg26 glomeruli soften progressively, despite increased collagen deposition, and may be the basis for the rapid course of glomerular diseases associated with severe podocyte injury. In milder injury (protamine), similar processes occur but over a longer time.
Genome-Wide Mapping of DNA Accessibility and Binding Sites for CREB and C/EBPβ in Vasopressin-Sensitive Collecting Duct Cells
Authors: Jung Hyun Jun , Raghuram Viswanathan , Lee Jae Wook , Knepper Mark A.
Published: March 2018

Background Renal water excretion is controlled by vasopressin, in part through regulation of the transcription of the aquaporin-2 gene (Aqp2).

Methods To identify enhancer regions likely to be involved in the regulation of Aqp2 and other principal cell–specific genes, we used several next generation DNA-sequencing techniques in a well characterized cultured cell model of collecting duct principal cells (mpkCCD). To locate enhancers, we performed the assay for transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing (ATAC-Seq) to identify accessible regions of DNA and integrated the data with data generated by chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by next generation DNA-sequencing (ChIP-Seq) for CCCTC binding factor (CTCF) binding, histone H3 lysine-27 acetylation, and RNA polymerase II.

Results We identified two high-probability enhancers centered 81 kb upstream and 5.8 kb downstream from the Aqp2 transcriptional start site. Motif analysis of these regions and the Aqp2 promoter identified several potential transcription factor binding sites, including sites for two b-ZIP transcription factors: CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-β (C/EBPβ) and cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB). To identify genomic binding sites for both, we conducted ChIP-Seq using well characterized antibodies. In the presence of vasopressin, C/EBPβ, a pioneer transcription factor critical to cell-specific gene expression, bound strongly at the identified enhancer downstream from Aqp2. However, over multiple replicates, we found no detectable CREB binding sites within 390 kb of Aqp2. Thus, any role for CREB in the regulation of Aqp2 gene transcription is likely to be indirect.

Conclusions The analysis identified two enhancer regions pertinent to transcriptional regulation of the Aqp2 gene and showed C/EBPβ (but not CREB) binding.
Democracia, control político y rendición de cuentas. El antecedente griego
Authors: Ríos Ramírez Alejandra , Fuentes Vélez Laura
Published: March 2018

La rendición de cuentas es un procedimiento implementado por un agente para controlar la gestión de un delegado investido con autoridad temporal para tomar decisiones. Recientemente, bajo la forma de mecanismo de control al poder político, la rendición de cuentas ha cobrado gran importancia en los estudios y en la práctica de la democracia. Con todo, esta relación no es exclusiva de la democracia contemporánea, antes bien, tiene un antecedente en la que fuera la primera forma de gobierno democrática de la historia de Occidente: la democracia ateniense de los siglos v y iv a. C. Aquí exponemos en qué consistían y qué sentido tenían los mecanismos de rendición de cuentas habilitados en ese contexto.
King Philip II of Spain as a symbol of ‘Tyranny’ in Spinoza’s Political Writings
Authors: Israel Jonathan
Published: March 2018

The highly abstract style of Spinoza’s philosophy has encouraged some interpretations of him as a thinker with little immediate connection with the whirl of social and cultural affairs around him. This article shows that all three major Western revolts - those of the Netherlands, Portugal and Aragon - against Philip II (his principal symbol and embodiment of tyranny, arbitrary and illicit governance, intolerance and repression of basic liberties) became in some sense internationally entwined and were intensely present in his life, which helps to understand that Spinoza was indeed a revolutionary.
Nation-States into Nationalising States
Authors: Agarin Timofey
Published: March 2018

The widely shared perception in the Baltic societies about these countries being national homelands of respective ethno-nations is indispensable for understanding recent political developments in the region. Arguably, the outcomes of the transition from Soviet to European Union member-states have been by far and large positive, forging functioning state institutions and creating polities that are on the forefront of upholding European standards in a range of areas. Much of the debate on the region, my own past contributions included, has emphasised the importance of nation-state-building agendas that have facilitated the transformation of the Russian-speaking population of the region from a formerly dominant nationality of the Soviet Union (SU) into a group that is today a minority in nation-states of Estonians, Latvians, and Lithuanians. Although there are plenty of assessments of how the change in minority members’ opportunities has impacted their social, economic and political mobilisation strategies over the decades since the Soviet demise, this article looks at the framework for these groups’ participation in public life.
Minority Inclusion in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Csergő Zsuzsa , Vangelov Ognen , Vizi Balázs
Published: March 2018

The question of how governments deal with ethnic diversity is fundamental to the future of peace and democracy in Europe.  The way this question is articulated and addressed has changed significantly, as European governments and social actors respond to problems of regional security, domestic political contestation, and economic well-being.  After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the collaborative efforts of European organizations – primarily the Council of Europe (CoE), the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and the European Union (EU) – provided a historic opportunity for the development of common European standards about minority inclusion across the whole spectrum of political and economic rights and opportunities available to state majorities.  Europeanization – which involved the deepening of transnational institutional structures in member states, the enlargement of the EU to include an increasing number of countries from the former Soviet bloc, and the diffusion of European norms and practices in the EU and its neighbourhood – had a profound impact on the evolution of state-minority relations across the continent.  Although Europeanization reaches all aspects of life in EU member and aspiring member states, the governance of ethnic diversity has evolved in diverse directions across the continent, rather than gradually converging toward common standards.
Bullies and Victims in Primary Schools
Authors: Kisfalusi Dorottya
Published: March 2018

This study examines the associations between four types of peer-reported bullying and peer-reported victimization (mocking, physical bullying, negative gossip, cyberbullying), and students’ ethnicity and academic achievement among sixth-grade Hungarian primary school students. For data analysis, multilevel regression models are used. Based on the analysis of 27 classes, it was found that students’ self-declared ethnicity is not significantly related to bullying and victimization among students with higher socio-economic status. In some models, however, a significant interaction term between ethnicity and low socio-economic status has been found, showing that among low status students, Roma ethnicity is more strongly associated with bullying and victimization than among high status students. Furthermore, there is no sign of the acting white phenomenon among the students in the study in general and among the Roma students in particular. In contrast, students having higher grades are less likely to be nominated as victims of any form of bullying except for mocking.
Measuring Droplet Volume in Home-Made Microfluidic Devices v1
Authors: McCarroll’s lab Steve
Published: March 2018

Drop-seq is a technologywe developed to enable biologists to analyze RNA expressiongenome-wide inthousands of individual cells at once. We first described this ina 2015 paper inCell. Though commercial implementations of droplet-based single-cell RNA-seq also now exist, we have made Drop-seq open-source and want to make sure that any lab can build their own system. The materials for constructing a Drop-seq setup in one’s own lab can be obtained for about $6,000. The reagents for performing Drop-seq cost about 6 cents per cell. This is a supplemental protocol of our Drop-Seq Protocol for measuring droplet volume in home-made microfluidic devices.
A study of habits of tobacco use among medical students and influence of various factors including medical education
Authors: Parmar Shailesh P. , Gosai Tushar R. , Solanki Krunal C.
Published: March 2018

Background: Tobacco use is a major preventable cause of morbidity and mortality. Tobacco usage among medical professionals should be reduced. It is important that they are aware regarding effects/ill effects of tobacco use, anti tobacco strategies, tobacco cessation technique to reduce tobacco usage among population. Authors undertook this study to understand tobacco use among medical students.Methods: Authors conducted cross sectional, descriptive study by collecting anonymous data of 414 undergraduate medical students of medical college, Jamnagar in predesigned forms. Data were analysed using MS-excel and graphpad prism. Authors used Fagerstrom test for nicotine dependence to assess nicotine dependence.Results: Tobacco users were 19.57%, among them 83.95% were smokers. Prevalence was higher in male (34.35% in male and 1.09% in female subgroup) and students with positive family history (36.81% in positive and 6.03% in negative family history subgroup). Current users were 7.73%. They were 8.20% in hosteller and 2.78% day scholar subgroups. Authors didn’t find statistical significant association of medical education with habit. Leading causes of starting tobacco use were curiosity/recreational purpose (35.8%), peer group pressure (32.10%) and stress (25.93%). Most of current user had low nicotine dependence (73.33%).Conclusions: Tobacco use among medical students is a significant problem. Important factors affecting it are gender, family history, current living status, stress, peer group pressure, media influences. Authors recommend that special awareness programme and specific training regarding tobacco cessation should be given to medical students.
Drug usage pattern of anti-hypertensive drugs in elderly diabetic, hypertensive in-patients with or without impaired renal function in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Bhandary Apeksha , R. Bhandari Prasan
Published: March 2018

Background: Hypertension (HTN) and Diabetes mellitus (DM) are the leading contributors to the cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Drug utilisation studies (DUS) are potential tools in the evaluation in health care systems. Objectives was to analyse the drug usage pattern of anti-hypertensives in elderly hypertensive diabetic in-patients in a tertiary hospital. To analyse drug usage pattern of anti-hypertensives in elderly hypertensive, diabetic in-patients with renal impairment in a tertiary hospital.Methods: The study population consisted of 165 hypertensive diabetic in-patients at Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Hospital. Questionnaire based study was conducted and prescriptions of patient with HTN and DM at and above the age of 60 years irrespective of gender were included.Results: Our study revealed that angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) were the most commonly prescribed (42.4%) class of anti-hypertensive drugs. In patients with impaired renal function also ARBs were the most common class prescribed (22.0%). Out of 35 anti-hypertensive fixed drug combinations (FDCs) prescribed the most frequent combination was combination with an ARBs (85.7%). There was a significant increase in the number of anti-hypertensive drugs prescribed in patients with impaired renal function when compared to patients without impaired renal function (p <0.05). The cost index was high, and the percentage cost variation was more than 100% in most of the anti-hypertensive drugs prescribed.Conclusions: This study shows that the most commonly prescribed anti-hypertensive drug class was ARBs in patients with and in patients without impaired renal function.
Safety and efficacy of tirapazamine as anti-cancer drug: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Hiremath Sharanabasayyaswamy B. , Devendrappa Srinivas Lokikere
Published: March 2018

Background: The benefits of achieving better response by adding tirapazamine, a specific hypoxic cancer cell killer to chemo and or radiotherapy is contradictory. This study aims at analyzing the efficacy and safety of tirapazamine, apart from understanding the reasons for its doubtful and inconsistent benefits.Methods: Electronic database search in PUBMED, EMBASE, Cochrane library was conducted using search term “tirapazamine”. Randomized or cross-over studies comparing effects of tirapazamine vs other active treatment or placebo in patients >18yrs with any type of cancers were included under analysis. Overall Survival rate was the primary outcome measure while the incidences of grade-3 and 4 adverse drug reactions were the secondary outcome measure. Inverse variance method and both random and fixed effect models were used in the analysis by RevMan 5.3 software.Results: Total six studies were eligible with 1034 patients included in the analysis. Tirapazamine failed to show significant effect on overall survival rate at the end of one year (HR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.88, 1.05), two year (HR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.98, 1.12), three year (HR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.89, 1.15) and five year (HR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.77, 1.23) compared to placebo group. There was a significantly higher incidence of muscle cramps (Risk Difference, RD: 0.06, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.11) and dermal adverse events (RD: 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.06) in tirapazamine group.Conclusions: With the available evidences from clinical trials and preclinical studies, use of tirapazamine may not be justifiable and so is to side line this drug as another failed drug.
Etiology and outcome of intestinal obstruction: an institutional prospective study
Authors: Maniselvi S. , Gayathre S. P.
Published: March 2018

Background: Intestinal obstruction is a major part of the emergency caseload in a general surgical department. It can pose diagnostic and treatment challenges with its varied presentation and multiple management options. The surgeon needs to use astute judgment to spot the diagnosis and plan the line of management. The aim of the study is to show the various etiologies most commonly presenting with intestinal obstruction in our institute in north Chennai. It also aims to evaluate markers of postoperative morbidity.Methods: This is a prospective study of about 50 patients with acute intestinal obstruction coming to the emergency department of the Government Stanley Medical College and Hospital from the time the patients were admitted they were followed up till their time of discharge/ death. X-ray abdomen erect and supine and CECT abdomen and pelvis were routinely taken for all the patients.Results: X-ray abdomen supine showed multiple air fluid levels as the commonest finding which was seen in 42 cases, 27 cases had dilated bowel loops and 2 cases showed coffee bean appearance. 6 cases had fluid levels less than 3 and were deemed in 49 cases and was inconclusive in 1 case to be inconclusive. CECT showed features of obstruction or pathological obstruction point.Conclusions: Corrections of dehydration and rapid resuscitation with correction of electrolyte disturbances would go a long way in reducing morbidity and mortality. Surgical intervention in a timely manner is the treatment of choice and prognosis is good when it is not delayed.
What is the recent trend in the clinical study of liver abcess cases?
Authors: Narwade Nandhkishore , Bagul Abhijit , Khan Naseem , Murali Sridevi , Borude Rahul , Ray Aniket , Shah Yashraj
Published: March 2018

Background: Liver abscesses commonly occur secondary to biliary or intestinal tract infections, haematogenous seeding or extension of contiguous infection, and carry a mortality rate of 20-60% even with appropriate medical-surgical management. The aims of the study were to study the current prevelence of etiological factors in cases of liver abscess, to study clinical presentations in cases of liver abscess and study outcomes of the current trend in investigations and outcomes of the modes of treatment in cases of liver abscess.Methods: 50 patients with the diagnosis of liver abscess belonging to various age groups and socio-economic status are included in the study. Written consent and a pre designed proforma was taken from all the patients and to collect relevant data form the patients included in the study.Results: In our study of 50 cases of liver abscess age ranges from 16 to 65, with majority of patients being in young age group (14-34 years). The median age for our study of liver abscess is 31. In our study, there were number of males 41 (82%) greater than females 9 (18%). In our study, right hypochondrium pain 12 cases (24%) was the most common presenting symptom among all liver abscess.Conclusions: Percutaneous aspiration along with medical management yields far better results. Ultrasonography is the most important recommended tool for the initial diagnostic investigation in liver abscess cases with percutaneous aspiration and pigtailing. Hence the prognosis of liver abscess has been improved with different advanced modalities in the management of liver abscess with less or no mortality except in patients with malignant disease.
Prospective long-term study of outcomes of 100 arteriovenous fistulas in patient with chronic renal failure
Authors: Panchal Mithun
Published: March 2018

Background: This study describes the experience of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation as vascular access for haemodialysis.Methods: This study has been carried out in our hospital from January 2004 to December 2016. A total of 154 AVFs were created in 100 patients. Maximum follow-up was 2 years, and minimum was 6 months.Results: In this study of 100 cases of AVFs, primary patency rates by Kaplan Meier analysis showed 78.81% patency of fistulas at the end of 1 year and patency dropped to 14.81% at the end of 5 years. The primary failure rate was 21.2%. Basilic vein was used in 26.35% cases, cephalic vein in 63.5%, and antecubital vein in 9.75% cases. On table, bruit was present in 134 (90.9%) and thrill in 126 (89.3%) cases. During dialysis, flow rate >250ml/min was obtained in 40(29.9%) cases. In complications, 2 (0.4%) patients developed distal oedema.Conclusions: Presence of on table thrill and bruit are indicators of successful AVF. If vein diameter is <2mm, chances of AVF failure are high. Flow rates in patients with vein diam. More than 2mm was significantly higher as compared with patients with vein diam. Less than 2mm (P< 0.001). Flow rates are higher in non-diabetic patients as compared to diabetic patients (P <0.001). Average blood urea and serum creatinine values are significantly lesser in patients undergoing dialysis through successful fistulas as compared to patients with failed fistulas. Correspondingly, incidence of deaths is significantly lesser in patients with successful fistulas. During proximal side-to-side fistula between antecubital/basilic vein and brachial artery, dilating of the first valve toward wrist helps to develop distal veins in the forearm by retrograde flow. This technique avoids requirement of superficialization of basilic vein in the arm.
Diagnostic accuracy of fine needle aspiration cytology in thyroid swellings with histopathological correlation
Authors: Patil Mahadeo R. , M. Patil Sandhyarani
Published: March 2018

Background: Thyroid swellings are common in India. It is important to differentiate malignant from benign thyroid swellings for definitive planning of appropriate surgery. This study is undertaken to study sensitivity and specificity of FNAC in diagnosis of thyroid swellings by comparing preoperative FNAC with postoperative histopathology.Methods: A total of 156 patients with thyroid swellings were evaluated for a period of three years. Pre-operatively FNAC was done and was compared with post-operative histopathology and sensitivity and specificity of FNAC was studied.Results: Thyroid swellings are more common in females. In present study of 156 thyroid swellings, 90.38% cytologies were benign while 7.05% were malignant and 2.56% were suspicious for malignancy. Sensitivity of FNAC for malignant lesions was 93.75% and specificity was 100%.Conclusions: FNAC with its very high specificity, and diagnostic accuracy approaching 100% can help to rule out malignancy in most of thyroid swellings and prevent unnecessary surgeries.
Study of factors predicting clinical outcomes of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy in Indian patients with upper urinary tract calculi
Authors: P. G. Panchal , Krishnaswamy Mahesh , Dabhade Dhammdeep C. , Swami Onkar C.
Published: March 2018

Background: Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is an effective non-invasive method for managing urinary tract calculi. Present study was undertaken to evaluate factors that may influence ESWL clinical outcomes in Indian patients with urinary tract calculi.Methods: This prospective study was conducted at Department of Urology, Medical Trust Hospital Cochin, India in the period from September 2006 to March 2009. Sixty patients with upper urinary tract lithiasis having stone size between 5 to 25 mm were included and patients with ˃2 calculi, distal ureteric obstruction (not relieved), renal anomalies were excluded. All patients were treated with DIREX medical system lithotripter. Clinical outcome of ESWL was assessed by factors like site, size, density and skin-to-stone distance. After statistical analysis, p-value ≤0.05 was taken as the level of significance.Results: The overall success of ESWL was 82%. The final success of ESWL for sites like ureter, pelvis, mid or upper and lower calyx were 94.1%, 84%, 85.7% and 58% respectively (p = 0.095). The rate of fragmentation of stone after one session of ESWL for stone size ≤10 mm, 11 mm - 20 mm and ≥21 mm was 76.5%, 68.4% and 16.7% respectively (p=0.009). For stone density 751-1000 HU, 22.2% patients required ≥2 sessions to achieve stone free status (p<0.0005). Around 15.6% patients in skin-to-stone distance (SSD) ≤10cm required ≥2 sessions to achieve stone free status (p = 0.27).Conclusions: ESWL should be considered a primary modality of treatment in patients with calculi size ≤20 mm, density ≤ 1000 HU, pelvic, ureteric and upper and/or middle calyceal calculi and for SSD ≤10 cm.
Irrigation with Bupivacaine at surgical bed for postoperative pain relief after laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: N. Ravishankar , A. Arun Kumar A. , Vasudevaiah Tulasi
Published: March 2018

Background: Laparoscopy involves insufflation of the abdomen by gas, so that the scope (usually 6-10 mm in diameter) can view the intra-abdominal contents without being in direct contact with the viscera or tissues. Surgical procedures can be carried out by instruments produced through one or more additional ports.Methods: This study was conducted in 60 patients aged 30-50 years. The patients were divided into two Groups A: 0.5 Bupivacaine, B: Saline intraperitoneal instillation; 30 patients in each group undergoing elective surgery.Results: This study was undertaken to compare the post-operative analgesic effect of 20 mL 0.5% Bupivacaine given intraperitoneally at the end of laparoscopic surgery with control 0.9% saline 20 mL at Bupivacaine group had better postoperative pain relief in the first six hours with no complications.Conclusions: 0.5% Bupivacaine irrigation at the surgical bed is effective for cholecystectomy for postoperative pain relief.
Unusual location of a glomangioma: a case report
Authors: Roshini A. P. , Bhat Vivek , Ramesh Rakesh , Y. K. Inchara
Published: March 2018

Glomangioma or glomus tumors are rare neoplasms of the glomus body, which are located in the stratum reticularis of the dermis throughout the body. With a female preponderance, 75% of them occur in the subungual region and present with non-specific pain as the main complaint. Extradigital glomus tumours are rare and present a diagnostic challenge, seen most commonly in males. We present a case of a 47-year-old male who presented with a painful swelling in the forearm. MRI showed a hypodense lesion in the subcutaneous plane. After a wide local excision, histopathology revealed sheets of round cells with intervening vascular channels, characteristic of a glomus tumor.