bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of screening for colorectal cancer with a faecal occult-blood test, in Finland
Authors: Pitkäniemi J , Seppä K , Hakama M , Malminiemi O , Palva T , Vuoristo M-S , Järvinen H , Paimela H , Pikkarainen P , Anttila A , Elovainio L , Hakulinen T , Karjalainen S , Pylkkänen L , Rautalahti M , Sarkeala T , Vertio H , Malila N
Published: June 2015

Background

Screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) with guaiac-based faecal occult-blood test (FOBT) has been reported to reduce CRC mortality in randomised trials in the 1990s, but not in routine screening, so far. In Finland, a large randomised study on biennial FOB screening for CRC was gradually nested as part of the routine health services from 2004. We evaluate the effectiveness of screening as a public health policy in the largest population so far reported.

Methods

We randomly allocated (1:1) men and women aged 60–69 years to those invited for screening and those not invited (controls), between 2004 and 2012. This resulted in 180 210 subjects in the screening arm and 180 282 in the control arm. In 2012, the programme covered 43% of the target age population in Finland.

Results

The median follow-up time was 4.5 years (maximum 8.3 years), with a total of 1.6 million person-years. The CRC incidence rate ratio between the screening and control arm was 1.11 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.23). The mortality rate ratio from CRC between the screening and control arm was 1.04 (0.84 to 1.28), respectively. The CRC mortality risk ratio was 0.88 (0.66 to 1.16) and 1.33 (0.94 to 1.87) in males and females, respectively.

Conclusions

We did not find any effect in a randomised health services study of FOBT screening on CRC mortality. The substantial effect difference between males and females is inconsistent with the evidence from randomised clinical trials and with the recommendations of several international organisations. Even if our findings are still inconclusive, they highlight the importance of randomised evaluation when new health policies are implemented.

Trial registration

002_2010_august.
Protocatechuic acid protects brain mitochondrial function in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Semaming Yoswaris , Sripetchwandee Jirapas , Sa-nguanmoo Piangkwan , Pintana Hiranya , Pannangpetch Patchareewan , Chattipakorn Nipon , Chattipakorn Siriporn C.
Published: June 2015

Brain mitochondrial dysfunction has been demonstrated in diabetic animals with neurodegeneration. Protocatechuic acid (PCA), a major metabolite of anthocyanin, has been shown to exert glycemic control and oxidative stress reduction in the heart. However, its effects on oxidative stress and mitochondrial function in the brain under diabetic condition have never been investigated. We found that PCA exerted glycemic control, attenuates brain mitochondrial dysfunction, and contributes to the prevention of brain oxidative stress in diabetic rats.
Acidosis-induced downregulation of hepatocyte mitochondrial aquaporin-8 and ureagenesis from ammonia
Authors: Molinas Sara M. , Soria Leandro R. , Marrone Julieta , Danielli Mauro , Trumper Laura , Marinelli Raúl A.
Published: June 2015

It has been proposed that, during metabolic acidosis, the liver downregulates mitochondrial ammonia detoxification via ureagenesis, a bicarbonate-consuming process. Since we previously demonstrated that hepatocyte mitochondrial aquaporin-8 channels (mtAQP8) facilitate the uptake of ammonia and its metabolism into urea, we studied whether mtAQP8 is involved in the liver adaptive response to acidosis. Primary cultured rat hepatocytes were adapted to acidosis by exposing them to culture medium at pH 7.0 for 40 h. Control cells were exposed to pH 7.4. Hepatocytes exposed to acid medium showed a decrease in mtAQP8 protein expression (–30%, p < 0.05). Ureagenesis from ammonia was assessed by incubating the cells with15N-labeled ammonia and measuring15N-labeled urea synthesis by nuclear magnetic resonance. Reduced ureagenesis was found in acidified hepatocytes (–31%, p < 0.05). In vivo studies in rats subjected to 7 days acidosis also showed decreased protein expression of hepatic mtAQP8 (–50%, p < 0.05) and reduced liver urea content (–35%; p < 0.05). In conclusion, our in vitro and in vivo data suggest that hepatic mtAQP8 expression is downregulated in acidosis, a mechanism that may contribute to decreased ureagenesis from ammonia in response to acidosis.
Leaf anatomy is associated with the type of growth form in Neotropical savanna plants
Authors: Rossatto Davi R. , Kolb Rosana M. , Franco Augusto C.
Published: June 2015

Scleromorphic leaf structures are associated with plants growing under drought-prone conditions, high irradiances, and nutrient-poor soils. Sclerophylly can also be a valuable deterrent against herbivores. However, comprehensive studies of leaf anatomical traits encompassing different growth forms are lacking. The savannas of central Brazil (Cerrado) are characterized by high species diversity and a variety of growth forms. We performed a field study to characterize leaf anatomical traits and leaf mass per area (LMA) in 57 co-occurring Cerrado species of distinct plant families (located at different positions in the angiosperm phylogeny) and categorized according to the following growth forms: trees, palms, shrubs, subshrubs, vines, grasses and herbs. Plant growth form and leaf structure were interrelated. Four groups with distinct leaf anatomical syndromes were identified by NMDS analysis: grasses, palms, herbaceous (herbs, vines, and most subshrubs), and woody (trees and shrubs) plants. Trees and shrubs had scleromorphic dorsiventral leaves, with high tissue thickness and LMA. Herbaceous plants had thin, mesomorphic leaves. While most herbaceous plants had dorsiventral type of mesophyll, grasses and palms had homogenous mesophyll with sclerenchymatous bundle sheath extensions. Palms differed from grasses by having thicker leaves and sclerenchymatous hypodermis. In conclusion, Neotropical savannas cannot be exclusively described as scleromorphic vegetation.
Counterintuitive patterns of spawning stock age structure and recruitment in Lake Erie yellow perch (Perca flavescens)
Authors: Zhang Fan , Reid Kevin B. , Nudds Thomas D.
Published: June 2015

Older spawning fish were often observed to contribute more recruits to harvested stocks than younger fish. However, effects of spawning stock age structure on recruitment were not universally detected. We tested effects of age-dependent absolute fecundity, age-dependent relative fecundity, and age-related maternal effects on recruitment by Lake Erie yellow perch (Perca flavescens). No effects of age-dependent absolute fecundity and age-dependent relative fecundity, nor positive age-related maternal effects, were detected at multidecadal or finer temporal scales of analysis, between 1975 and 2013. Instead, we found evidence of negative age-related maternal effects, of spatially and temporally varying strength; older cohorts in the spawning stock were sometimes associated with lower offspring survival. Such counterintuitive results imply that biotic and abiotic factors, such as interspecific predation, during larval and juvenile life stages might strongly affect recruitment of Lake Erie yellow perch.
Influence of hydrologic modifications on Fraxinus pennsylvanica in the Mississippi River Alluvial Valley, USA
Authors: Gee Hugo K.W. , King Sammy L. , Keim Richard F.
Published: June 2015

We used tree-ring analysis to examine the radial growth response of a common, moderately flood-tolerant species (Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh.) to hydrologic and climatic variability for >40 years before and after hydrologic modifications affecting two forest stands in the Mississippi River Alluvial Valley (USA): a stand without levees below dams and a stand within a ring levee. At the stand without levees below dams, spring flood stages decreased and overall growth increased after dam construction, which we attribute to a reduction in flood stress. At the stand within a ring levee, growth responded to the elimination of overbank flooding by shifting from being positively correlated with river stage to not being correlated with river stage. In general, growth in swales was positively correlated with river stage and Palmer Drought Severity Index (an index of soil moisture) for longer periods than flats. Growth decreased after levee construction, but swales were less impacted than flats likely because of differences in elevation and soils provided higher soil moisture. Results of this study indicate that broadscale hydrologic processes differ in their effects on the flood regime, and the effects on growth of moderately flood-tolerant species such as F. pennsylvanica can be mediated by local-scale factors such as topographic position, which affects soil moisture.
Beyond rhetoric: navigating the conceptual tangle towards effective implementation of the ecosystem approach to oceans management
Authors: Engler Cecilia
Published: June 2015

The ecosystem approach is widely considered the best paradigm for environmental management and oceans management. With such ample endorsement, one could expect that the concept has an unambiguous definition and that its implications for management are clear. That is not the case. The concept has provoked an extensive academic and practical debate over the last 30 years. Early work focused on debates about the concept of the ecosystem approach, its guiding principles, and consistent use of terminology. As those questions were progressively clarified, the work has focused on its implementation. This paper provides a three-part literature review of these developments. The first part analyzes the current understanding of the ecosystem approach, its consensual elements or principles, the differing terminology coined in the literature, and three sources of persisting confusion around the concept. The paper addresses in particular one of those sources of confusion: the goal of the ecosystem approach. The second part focuses on implementation frameworks and strategies, with particular focus on objective-based and adaptive management frameworks and the pivotal role of ecosystem indicators in understanding, assessing, and managing ecosystems. The third part reviews the recognition of ecosystems and the ecosystem approach in international law, including an analysis of nonbinding instruments, treaty law (with particular reference to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the 1995 United Nations Fish Stocks Agreement, and the Convention on Biological Diversity), and the practical regional implementation of the ecosystem approach to fisheries and oceans management. The literature review demonstrates that, despite some persisting differing interpretations, the ecosystem approach has moved from the theory of aspirational discourse to the practice of implementation. It has proven successful in enhancing the understanding of ecosystems’ structure, function, and dynamics; increasing awareness of environmental problems; and developing policy and research agendas and priorities. However, the jury is still out in relation to its capacity to influence human behavior through direct management actions. Many factors concur to this limitation, but two stand out: the inadequacy of traditional regulatory frameworks and institutional arrangements to capture the complexity, uncertainty, and variability of ecosystems; and the reluctance of the international community to embrace a global, comprehensive, and substantive international obligation that effectively protects the ecological systems on which life on Earth depends.
Algorithms for Necklace Maps
Authors: Speckmann Bettina , Verbeek Kevin
Published: June 2015

Necklace maps visualize quantitative data associated with regions by placing scaled symbols, usually disks, without overlap on a closed curve (the necklace) surrounding the map regions. Each region is projected onto an interval on the necklace that contains its symbol. In this paper we address the algorithmic question how to maximize symbol sizes while keeping symbols disjoint and inside their intervals. For that we reduce the problem to a one-dimensional problem which we solve efficiently. Solutions to the one-dimensional problem provide a very good approximation for the original necklace map problem.

We consider two variants: Fixed-Order, where an order for the symbols on the necklace is given, and Any-Order where any symbol order is possible. The Fixed-Order problem can be solved in O(n log n) time. We show that the Any-Order problem is NP-hard for certain types of intervals and give an exact algorithm for the decision version. This algorithm is fixed-parameter tractable in the thickness K of the input. Our algorithm runs in O(n log n + n2K4K) time which can be improved to O(n log n + nK2K) time using a heuristic. We implemented our algorithm and evaluated it experimentally.
Operative Treatment of Acute Scaphoid Fractures
Authors: Kang Lana
Published: June 2015

Optimal treatment of acute scaphoid fractures is a necessary goal for many reasons. One is that the scaphoid is the most commonly fractured carpal bone. Another is that a missed diagnosis of an acute scaphoid fracture leads to the more challenging situation of a delayed union, non-union and risk for premature radiocarpal arthrosis. Because the scaphoid has an inherent risk for nonunion due to its the tenuous blood supply, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are considered critical to achieving acceptable results and to avoiding the consequences of failed union.
The Adipofascial Radial Artery Perforator Flap: A Versatile Reconstructive Option in Upper Limb Surgery
Authors: Samson Deepak , Power Dominic M
Published: June 2015

Background: Flaps have been used in upper limb surgery for varied indications including coverage of soft tissue defects, interposition and to provide a pliable bed for gliding structures among others.

Methods: We report our use of the radial artery perforator based adipofascial flap in nine patients, five with rigid radioulnar synostosis, three with recalcitrant carpal tunnel syndrome and one with a soft tissue defect.

Results: All our patients with radioulnar synostosis regained good functional rotations of the forearm with no recurrence at follow up. The patients with recalcitrant carpal tunnel also had resolution of symptoms with no recurrence. The flap healed well in all the patients.

Conclusions: We propose this flap as a viable, versatile reconstructive option for the hand and upper limb.
The Effect of Screw Design on Union Rates in Scaphoid Nonunions
Authors: Wu Jiwei , Tay Shian Chao , Shin Alexander Y.
Published: June 2015

Background: The purpose of this study is to compare the outcome of the conical fully threaded headless screw to that of a smooth shaft headless screw in a series of scaphoid nonunions requiring screw fixation to determine if screw design had an influence on union rates.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 104 cases of surgically treated scaphoid nonunions. After eliminating cases with our exclusion criteria, the study cohort had 40 cases for analysis. A comparison and analysis of union rates was undertaken between the fully threaded Acutrak 2 mini screw and the smooth shaft Herbert screw.

Results: Overall union rate for screw fixation was 88%. The fully threaded conical screw fixation had a significantly lower union rate of 50% compared to 97% for the smooth shaft screws.

Conclusions: Our data revealed that the fully threaded conical screws were associated with significantly lower union rate compared to the smooth shaft Herbert type screws.
Scaphoid Excision and Four-Corner Fusion for Neglected Perilunate Dislocations: Preliminary Results
Authors: Eid Abdelsalam
Published: June 2015

Background: Perilunate dislocations are severe uncommon carpal injuries. They are sometimes missed with a reported incidence of up to 25%. Neglect for a period of time allows for soft tissue contractures, as well as bony changes that make reduction extremely difficult. For neglected cases, procedures such as staged open reduction, proximal row carpectomy, and wrist arthrodesis have been offered. The objective of this study was to examine whether scaphoid excision and four-corner fusion could be used to treat neglected perilunate dislocations.

Methods: Ten patients with neglected perilunate dislocations were managed by scaphoid excision and four-corner fusion. The dominant hand was involved in eight cases. Graft material for the fusion was obtained from the excised scaphoid. Results: Six patients had complete relief of pain both at rest and during stressful activities. Two patients had no pain at rest and mild pain on stressful activities. The remaining two patients had mild pain at rest and moderate pain on stressful activities. The arc of extension/flexion of the wrist and grip strength both improved as compared to their preoperative levels. The average postoperative Quick DASH score was 12.5.

Conclusions: Scaphoid excision with four corner fusion could be used to treat neglected perilunate dislocations with good pain relief and good hand function.
Functional Outcomes Following Pilon Fractures of the Middle Phalanx Managed with the Ligamentotaxor External Fixator
Authors: Colegate-Stone Toby , Marenah Kebba , Compson John , Tahmassebi Ramon , Tavakkolizadeh Adel
Published: June 2015

Background: The surgical aims in managing displaced intra-articular fractures of the base of the middle phalanx include early joint reduction, maintaining congruence and early mobilization. Achieving this can be a challenge. However dynamic external fixators offer a solution. The study aim was to evaluate the use and outcomes of the Ligamentotaxor external fixator in patients with such injuries.

Methods: A total of 12 patients were managed with this device and outcomes were assessed. All patients reached clinical and radiological union.

Results: An average range of movement to the proximal interphalangeal joint of 63° was noted along with an average end of care-cycle quick-DASH score of 9.1. Two patients developed pin-site infections.

Conclusions: The outcomes seen support the use of the Ligamentotaxor in the management of middle phalanx intra-articular fractures. It is simple to apply, potentially avoids the secondary complications of open reduction and gives reproducible results. However judicious patient selection is advised.
A Huge Angioleiomyoma of the Finger
Authors: Mok Jason Churk Yan , Fan Ka Yuk , Lui Tun Hing
Published: June 2015

Vascular leiomyoma is a rare soft tissue lesion in the upper limbs. We reported a case of vascular leiomyoma in a 77-year-old female. It presented with a large painless slow growing lesion in the finger, which had grown to size up to 4 × 3 cm. X-ray and MRI were performed pre-operatively. Surgical excision was performed and the histological findings confirm the diagnosis.
Trans-Scaphoid Perilunate Dislocation: Union of an Extruded Scaphoid Proximal Pole Fragment
Authors: Goon PKY , Vaghela KR , Chojnowski AJ
Published: June 2015

We present an unusual case of a closed perilunate dorsal-dislocation of the carpus, with an associated scaphoid fracture. In this extreme case, the proximal scaphoid pole was extruded volarly and proximally. After closed manipulation, the proximal pole of the scaphoid was further dislocated dorsally, a phenomenon not previously described in the literature. At open reduction this fragment was noted to have no soft tissue attachment but after reduction, distal radius bone graft and compression screw fixation the scaphoid went on to unite with a good functional result. This case highlights a rare but serious injury to the wrist with an unusual dislocation pattern not previously described. It demonstrates that early surgical intervention to fix such fractures with an avascular fragment can still achieve fracture union, despite the severity.
Avulsion Injuries of the Flexor Digitorum Profundus Tendon: An Unclassified Pattern of Injury
Authors: Abdul Azeem Mokhtar , Marwan Yousef , Esmaeel Ali
Published: June 2015

Closed avulsion of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon is classified based on the impact of injury on the management plan. In this report, we present a case with unclassified pattern of FDP tendon avulsion. The injury involves an intra-articular fracture of the volar part of distal phalanx of the little finger resulting into two bony fragments, one attached to the retracted avulsed tendon and another separated and incarcerated at A4 pulley, and an intact dorsal cortex of the phalanx. Based on that, we recommend the development of a new classification scheme for this condition.
Dynamics and Stability of Magnetically Actuated Pipes Conveying Fluid
Authors: Dai H. L. , Wang L.
Published: June 2015

This paper is concerned with the development of a theoretical model for predicting the dynamics and pull-in instability of magnetically actuated pipes conveying fluid. The equation of motion of the pipe is constructed in the presence of nonlinear magnetic forces. The lateral displacement of the pipe comprises two parts, namely, a static displacement and a perturbation displacement about the static. Based on the finite element method (FEM), the static deflection of the pipe is calculated numerically first. The computed static deflection is then used to solve the equation governing the perturbed displacement. Consequently, the pull-in and flow-induced instabilities can be determined for clamped–clamped or cantilevered boundary conditions. Results show that the flow speed can significantly affects the static deflection of the pipe and hence the pull-in magnetic force. The magnetic force, on the other hand, has a great impact on the dynamics of the pipe system.
On weakly ℋC-embedded subgroups of finite groups
Authors: Asaad M. , Ramadan M.
Published: June 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite group. A subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is said to be an [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text] if there exists a normal subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text] We say that [Formula: see text] is weakly [Formula: see text]-embedded in [Formula: see text] if there exists a normal subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we investigate the structure of the finite group [Formula: see text] under the assumption that some subgroups of prime power order are weakly [Formula: see text]-embedded in [Formula: see text]. Our results improve and generalize several recent results in the literature.
Voiculescu amenable Hopf von Neumann algebras with applications
Authors: Akhtari Fatemeh , Nasr-Isfahani Rasoul
Published: June 2015

For a Hopf von Neumann algebra [Formula: see text], we give a fixed point characterization of Voiculescu amenability of [Formula: see text] in terms of modules over [Formula: see text]. As a consequence, we present some descriptions for amenability of locally compact groups in terms of certain associated Hopf von Neumann algebras. We finally apply this result to some modules of continuous functions on a multiplicative subsemigroup of [Formula: see text].
A superdimension formula for 𝔤𝔩(m|n)-modules
Authors: Chmutov Michael , Karpman Rachel , Reif Shifra
Published: June 2015

We give a formula for the superdimension of a finite-dimensional simple [Formula: see text]-module using the Su–Zhang character formula. This formula coincides with the superdimension formulas proven by Weissauer and Heidersdorf–Weissauer. As a corollary, we obtain a simple algebraic proof of a conjecture of Kac–Wakimoto for [Formula: see text], namely, a simple module has nonzero superdimension if and only if it has maximal degree of atypicality. This conjecture was proven originally by Serganova using the Duflo–Serganova associated variety.
General Hom–Lie algebra
Authors: Ma Tianshui , Dong Lihong , Li Haiying
Published: June 2015

We introduce the notion of a general Hom–Lie algebra and show that any Hom-algebra in the category [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a triangular Hom–Hopf algebra, can give rise to a general Hom–Lie algebra, which generalizes the main result in [11] to the Hom-case.
Scalar product for the tensor operators of the quantum algebra Ŭq(su2) by the Wigner–Eckart theorem
Authors: Fakhri H. , Nouraddini M.
Published: June 2015

Tensor operators as the irreducible submodules corresponding to the adjoint representation of the quantum algebra Ŭq( su 2) are equipped with q-analogue of the Hilbert–Schmidt scalar product by using the Wigner–Eckart theorem. Then, it is used to show that the adjoint representation of the quantum algebra Ŭq( su 2) is a *-representation.
Jet-quenching parameter in 3D rotating hairy black hole background
Authors: Naji Jalil
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we consider rotating black hole in three dimensions with a scalar charge and discuss about the jet-quenching parameter. We find that the effect of scalar charge is decreasing and rotation parameter is increasing the value of the jet-quenching parameter.
K3 surfaces with algebraic period ratios have complex multiplication
Authors: Tretkoff Paula
Published: June 2015

Let Ω be a non-zero holomorphic 2-form on a K3 surface S. Suppose that S is projective algebraic and is defined over [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be the [Formula: see text]-vector space generated by the numbers given by all the periods ∫γΩ, γ ∈ H2(S, ℤ). We show that, if [Formula: see text], then S has complex multiplication, meaning that the Mumford–Tate group of the rational Hodge structure on H2(S, ℚ) is abelian. This result was announced in [P. Tretkoff, Transcendence and CM on Borcea–Voisin towers of Calabi–Yau manifolds, J. Number Theory 152 (2015) 118–155], without a detailed proof. The converse is already well known.
Rational points on certain families of symmetric equations
Authors: Hindes Wade
Published: June 2015

We generalize the work of Dem'janenko and Silverman for the Fermat quartics, effectively determining the rational points on the curves x2m + axm + aym + y2m = b whenever the ranks of some companion hyperelliptic Jacobians are at most one. As an application, we explicitly describe Xd(ℚ) for certain d ≥ 3, where Xd : Td(x) + Td(y) = 1 and Td is the monic Chebychev polynomial of degree d. Moreover, we show how this later problem relates to orbit intersection problems in dynamics. Finally, we construct a new family of genus 3 curves which break the Hasse principle, assuming the parity conjecture, by specifying our results to quadratic twists of x4 - 4x2 - 4y2 + y4 = -6.
An Experimental Investigation on the Air-Side Performance of Fin-and-Tube Heat Exchangers Having Radial Slit Fins
Authors: Kim Nae-Hyun
Published: June 2015

In this study, the heat transfer and friction characteristics of radial slit-finned heat exchangers are experimentally investigated. Louver-finned heat exchangers are also tested for comparison purpose. The effect of fin pitch on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] factor is negligible. Considering the small variation of the fin pitch (from 1.3[Formula: see text]mm to 1.7[Formula: see text]mm), the foregoing argument should hold true for the present samples. Louver fin samples yield higher [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] factors than slit fin samples. The [Formula: see text] factor increases as the number of tube row decreases. The [Formula: see text] factor, however, is independent of the number of tube row. The [Formula: see text] ratios of slit fin samples are larger than those of Louver fin samples. Data are compared with available correlations.
Large Tick Assets: Implicit Spread and Optimal Tick Size
Authors: Dayri Khalil , Rosenbaum Mathieu
Published: June 2015

In this work, we provide a framework linking microstructural properties of an asset to the tick value of the exchange. In particular, we bring to light a quantity, referred to as implicit spread, playing the role of spread for large tick assets, for which the effective spread is almost always equal to one tick. The relevance of this new parameter is shown both empirically and theoretically. This implicit spread allows us to quantify the tick sizes of large tick assets and to define a notion of optimal tick size. Moreover, our results open the possibility of forecasting the behavior of relevant market quantities after a change in the tick value and to give a way to modify it in order to reach an optimal tick size. Thus, we provide a crucial tool for regulators and trading platforms in the context of high frequency trading.
A Methodology to Evaluate Important Dimensions of Information Quality in Systems
Authors: Todoran Ion-George , Lecornu Laurent , Khenchaf Ali , Caillec Jean-Marc Le
Published: June 2015

Assessing the quality of the information proposed by an information system has become one of the major research topics in the last two decades. A quick literature survey shows that a significant number of information quality frameworks are proposed in different domains of application: management information systems, web information systems, information fusion systems, and so forth. Unfortunately, they do not provide a feasible methodology that is both simple and intuitive to be implemented in practice. In order to address this need, we present in this article a new information quality methodology. Our methodology makes use of existing frameworks and proposes a three-step process capable of tracking the quality changes through the system. In the first step and as a novelty compared to existing studies, we propose decomposing the information system into its elementary modules. Having access to each module allows us to locally define the information quality. Then, in the second step, we model each processing module by a quality transfer function, capturing the module’s influence over the information quality. In the third step, we make use of the previous two steps in order to estimate the quality of the entire information system. Thus, our methodology allows informing the end-user on both output quality and local quality. The proof of concept of our methodology has been carried out considering two applications: an automatic target recognition system and a diagnosis coding support system.
Information Complexity and the Quest for Interactive Compression
Authors: Weinstein O.
Published: June 2015

Information complexity is the interactive analogue of Shannon's classical information theory. In recent years this field has emerged as a powerful tool for proving strong communication lower bounds, and for addressing some of the major open problems in communication complexity and circuit complexity. A notable achievement of information complexity is the breakthrough in understanding of the fundamental direct sum and direct product conjectures, which aim to quantify the power of parallel computation. This survey provides a brief introduction to information complexity, and overviews some of the recent progress on these conjectures and their tight relationship with the fascinating problem of compressing interactive protocols.
Hardware Trends
Authors: Harris Tim
Published: June 2015

This article is about three trends in computer hardware, and some of the challenges and opportunities that I think they provide for the distributed computing community. A common theme in all of these trends is that hardware is moving away from assumptions that have often been made about the relative performance of different operations (e.g., computation versus network communication), the reliability of operations (e.g., that memory accesses are reliable, but network communication is not), and even some of the basic properties of the system (e.g., that the contents of main memory are lost on power failure).

Section 1 introduces "rack-scale" systems and the kinds of properties likely in their interconnect networks. Section 2 describes challenges in systems with shared physical memory but without hardware cache coherence. Section 3 discusses non-volatile byte-addressable memory. The article is based in part on my talk at the ACM PODC 2014 event in celebration of Maurice Herlihy's sixtieth birthday.
Data Transmission Scheme Using Mobile Sink in Static Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Ahmad Awais , Rathore M. Mazhar , Paul Anand , Chen Bo-Wei
Published: June 2015

Multihop communication in wireless sensor network (WSN) brings new challenges in reliable data transmission. Recent work shows that data collection from sensor nodes using mobile sink minimizes multihop data transmission and improves energy efficiency. However, due to continuous movements, mobile sink has limited communication time to collect data from sensor nodes, which results in rapid depletion of node’s energy. Therefore, we propose a data transmission scheme that addresses the aforementioned constraints. The proposed scheme first finds out the group based region on the basis of localization information of the sensor nodes and predefined trajectory information of a mobile sink. After determining the group region in the network, selection of master nodes is made. The master nodes directly transmit their data to the mobile sink upon its arrival at their group region through restricted flooding scheme. In addition, the agent node concept is introduced for swapping of the role of the master nodes in each group region. The master node when consuming energy up to a certain threshold, neighboring node with second highest residual energy is selected as an agent node. The mathematical analysis shows that the selection of agent node maximizes the throughput while minimizing transmission delay in the network.
Clinical Brain Death with False Positive Radionuclide Cerebral Perfusion Scans
Authors: Venkatram Sindhaghatta , Bughio Sara , Diaz-Fuentes Gilda
Published: June 2015

Practice guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology for the determination of brain death in adults define brain death as “the irreversible loss of function of the brain, including the brainstem.” Neurological determination of brain death is primarily based on clinical examination; if clinical criteria are met, a definitive confirmatory test is indicated. The apnea test remains the gold standard for confirmation. In patients with factors that confound the clinical determination or when apnea tests cannot safely be performed, an ancillary test is required to confirm brain death. Confirmatory ancillary tests for brain death include (a) tests of electrical activity (electroencephalography (EEG) and somatosensory evoked potentials) and (b) radiologic examinations of blood flow (contrast angiography, transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD), and radionuclide methods). Of these, however, radionuclide studies are used most commonly. Here we present data from two patients with a false positive Radionuclide Cerebral Perfusion Scan (RCPS).
Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome in Neonate
Authors: Kouakou K. , Dainguy M. E. , Kassi K.
Published: June 2015

We described a case of Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome in infant age of 21 days by discussing clinical and management issues. This newborn presented large erythematous, eroded, and oozing areas covered by epidermal skin flap. The average surface of cutaneous unsticking on admission was 31.35% of body surface area corresponding to lesions of superficial second-degree burns. An important biological inflammatory syndrome including positive C-reactive protein was found. Under treatment, erythroderma decreased within 7 to 10 days and the newborn was completely healed after 3 weeks of followup, with the disappearance of the inflammatory syndrome and total body surface restored. This clinical case report showed that SSSS remains a major dermatological problem in neonates. Therefore, its diagnosis should be made without doubt and its care should start earlier in a neonate emergency unit in order to have good prognosis. And the rigorous “search and destroy” policy based on screening of staff and patients and isolation of identified patients advocated in the United Kingdom should be applied in neonate units in Côte d’Ivoire.
Cytotoxic Effect of Voriconazole on Human Corneal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Sobolewska Bianka , Guerel Guelhan , Hofmann Johanna , Tarek Bayyoud , Bartz-Schmidt Karl-Ulrich , Yoeruek Efdal
Published: June 2015

Background: To assess the cytotoxic properties of voriconazole and sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBECD) on cultured primary human corneal epithelial cells. Methods: Human corneal epithelial cells were cultured and exposed to various concentrations of SBECD (0.016-32 mg/ml) and voriconazole (0.001-2 mg/ml). Cellular cytotoxicity of SBECD and voriconazole on human corneal epithelial cells was evaluated using the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide test and the LIVE/DEAD Viability/Cytotoxicity Assay with fluorescence microscopy analysis. Cell damage was assessed with phase-contrast microscopy after 24 h of exposure to SBECD and voriconazole. Results: The cytotoxicity tests and the morphological characteristic demonstrated the dose-dependent toxic effect of SBECD and voriconazole on human corneal epithelial cells. No corneal epithelial cytotoxicity was observed below the concentration of 0.08 and 0.025 mg/ml after 24-hour exposure to SBECD and voriconazole, respectively. Conclusions: The results of the study reveal the dose-dependent cytotoxic effect of SBECD and voriconazole on cultured human corneal epithelial cells. Therefore, voriconazole eye drops should be used cautiously in the treatment of fungal corneal ulcers.
ЩОДО МЕЖІ ДОЦІЛЬНОСТІ ВИКОРИСТАННЯ ПОНЯТТЯ «ТРИГЕРНІ ВЗАЄМОДІЇ » У БІОЛОГІЇ ТА МЕДИЦИНІ. ПЕРШЕ ПОВІДОМЛЕННЯ - ПОСТАНОВКА ПРОБЛЕМИ
Authors: Mіntser O. P. , Ihrunova K. M.
Published: June 2015

The possi bilities of using trigger formats to manage correction of pathological conditions were consi dered. The adaptation model of stress was analyzed. It is shown the possi bility of using the scatter of results to assess congruence compensatory reactions. As suggested hypothesis thesis that in this case trigger cascades do not work because there are not enough conditions in the body to fulfill certain trigger reactions. It is proven by the low efficacy coefficient. The relative coefficient is optimal for obtaining qualitative conclusion on the validity of pat hogenetic mechanisms. It might be useful to follow the recommendations regarding coefficient value and the degree of fluctuation researched criteria: 10 % - weak fluctuations; 10-25 % - moderate fluctuations; more than 25 % - high waves. It is shown the possi bility of using “golden proportion” to quantify the level of metabolic condition or viability, which was detected in the culture of MNCs as a ratio to the spontaneous and induced apoptosis in the control of equal value of ’’golden proportion” -0.614. It began to decline in rabbits in two weeks of stressing - 0.739 and 0.909 - in 4 weeks of stressing.
ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ МЕТОДІВ ОНТОЛОГІЧНОГО МОДЕЛЮВАННЯ ДЛ Я ФОРМУВАННЯ ОСВІТНІХ СТАНДАРТІВ
Authors: Stryzhak O. Ye.
Published: June 2015

The paper presents the possibility of ontological modeling techniques to create educational standards. It is shown t hat the ontological modeling to optimize the description of all levels of the NQF, sufficient to determine the completeness of the infor mation content of subject courses, establish consistency between systems subject knowledge and competencies that need to equip graduates. Ontological models allow also include course content new technological solutions.
ПРО ПІДХОДИ ДО РОЗРОБКИ СУЧАСНИХ ПРОГРАМНИХ ДОДАТКІВ В МЕДИЧНІЙ ОСВІТІ
Authors: Semenets A. V. , Martsenyuk V. P.
Published: June 2015

Requirements of t he development of the special application software for t h e medical e ducation infor matization are sh own. The conceptual approaches of the application software development and i mplementation to t he medical e ducation area are deter mined. The experience of the software development in Ternopil State MedicalU niversity by I. Ya. Horbachevsky is shown. The approaches applied in the software development process in the TSMU are analyzed. The recommendations to the software development process or ganization in the medical university are offered.
ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ МЕРЕЖЕВОГО НАВЧАННЯ В МЕДИЦИНІ
Authors: Krasnov V. V. , Zhyrok M. M.
Published: June 2015

The basic principles of organization of a network learning in institutions of medical education were set. We propose the
organizing process of network learning, which is the following sequence: for mation of the students motivation and skills of
effective communication in the group; training in t h e use of tools, methodologies and techniques for distance communications solutions to educational problems; real distant work under th e supervision of a teacher; independent remote interaction. The results of experiments show t hat without th e formation of team interaction skills training effectiveness of the networ k is low.
ІНФОРМАЦІЙНЕ ВІДДЗЕРКАЛЕННЯ ПРОБЛЕМ ФІНАНСОВОГО ЗАБЕЗПЕЧЕННЯ ПЛАНУВАННЯ КАДРОВИХ РЕСУРСІВ
Authors: Protsenko O. S.
Published: June 2015

Two ways to indentify sources of funding for workforce planning of health care provided limited funds. Emphasized that investment in education is a source of economic growth. Clear boundaries between investment in public education (receiving general education) and private investment (vocational training) does not exist. A possi ble solution to the problem of harmonization of investment policies can be informatization training system that misses factors industry research, motivation, training difficulties, financial calculations.
ПЕРЕВАГИ МЕТОДУ ЕЛЕКТРОЗВАРЮВАННЯ ПРИ ЛІКУВАННІ ХВОРИХ НА РАК ГОРТАНІ СЕРЕДИННОЇ ЛОКАЛІЗАЦІЇ (СТ. Т1-Т2)
Authors: Bulavin L. A. , Abyzov R. A. , Vergun L. Yu. , Onyshchenko Yu. I.
Published: June 2015

Clinical methods of larynx treat ment using electric method was presented. Main advantages of the proposed method was shown. The physical mechanisms of structural changes in the connective tissues of the larynx elements in the application of the method of welding was set.
СИТУАТИВНА Й ОСОБИСТІСНА ТРИВОЖНІСТЬ СТУДЕНТА В ЕРГАТИЧНІЙ НАВЧАЛЬНІЙ СИСТЕМІ
Authors: Strakhova O. P.
Published: June 2015

The work in ergatic learning system may have an influence into the human functional state changes. The quantitative parameters of such changes may be detected by measuring the electrocutaneous characteristics in the special control acupuncture points on the human limbs - so-called microzones. To study the interconnections between situational and personal anxiety of a human and his electrocutaneous parameters, the present research was implemented. It was established that these parameters have changes according to the individual’s character.
ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ РЕСУРСУ WOLFRAMALPHA ДЛЯ МАТЕМАТИЧНОГО МОДЕЛЮВАННЯ ФАРМАКОКІНЕТИЧНИХ ПРОЦЕСІВ
Authors: Sverstyuk A. S. , Kravets N. O. , Vakulenko D. V.
Published: June 2015

Using information technologies in the process of teaching higher mathematics, information technologies in pharmacy helps to develop students creativethinking and better skills of work in a computer environment. It also provides the higher level of getting knowledge, helps to create and study mathematical models of different phenomena; shows how to use and research mathematical methods. The article deals with advantages and disadvantages of using WolframAlpha while  forming mathematical competence of future pharmacists.
Reforma psiquiátrica em Natal-RN: evolução histórica e os desafios da assistência de enfermagem
Authors: Silva Fernando De Souza , Simpson Clélia Albino , Dantas Rita De Cássia
Published: June 2015

Este estudo objetivou discorrer sobre a evolução das práticas assistenciais ao portador de transtornos psiquiátricos na cidade de Natal (RN), por meio de uma revisão integrativa em que encontramos seis pesquisas sobre a temática. Acreditamos que as reflexões propostas subsidiam mudanças assistenciais à enfermagem em saúde mental. Dentre as conclusões percebemos que a necessidade de maior capacitação dos enfermeiros em saúde mental alicerça-se na exigência desse profissional em favorecer a integração de ações que promovam a efetivação das transformações práticas, saberes e valores culturais, impregnados no cuidado cotidiano aos clientes e seus familiares.
Opinião de jovens vítimas de trauma sobre políticas públicas relacionadas às bebidas alcoólicas
Authors: Arnauts Ivonete , Oliveira Magda Lúcia Félix de
Published: June 2015

O estudo teve como objetivo verificar a opinião de jovens vítimas de trauma sobre políticas públicas de controle do uso de álcool. Estudo exploratório e transversal, com jovens na faixa etária entre 10 e 24 anos. Foram entrevistados 112 jovens, os quais foram classificados em três grupos de padrão de consumo de álcool. Os resultados apontaram que os jovens apresentaram falsa percepção de segurança referente ao consumo de álcool, apoiam programas e campanhas preventivas referentes ao consumo e têm pouca credibilidade no que refere-se ao cumprimento das políticas públicas para o álcool.
Concepção de profissionais de saúde que atuam em emergência de saúde mental
Authors: Soares Marcos Hirata , Ruzzon Eloisi Delalibera , Bortoletto Maira Sayuri Sakay
Published: June 2015

O presente estudo comparou as concepções sobre doença mental de profissionais administrativos, de enfermagem e médicos dos serviços de saúde de urgência no município de Londrina-PR. O delineamento foi transversal, utilizando a escala OpinionsAbout Mental Illness (OMI) com uma amostra aleatória de 30% dos profissionais, totalizando 96 sujeitos no período de 2010 a 2011. Os dados foram submetidos à análise estatística pelo StatisticalPackage for Social Sciences (SPSS). Para dois fatores da escala ODM e com os enfermeiros, há normalidade na distribuição amostral. O teste de Kruskall-Wallis indicou que há diferença significativa com relação a quatro dos sete fatores componentes da ODM (p<0,05). Os profissionais que atuam nesses serviços necessitam de capacitação na área de saúde mental, bem como há a necessidade de novos estudos sobre o tema, com um maior número de sujeitos.
Transtornos mentais comuns e consumo de bebida alcoólica e tabaco entre estudantes de enfermagem de uma universidade pública na Amazônia Ocidental brasileira
Authors: Silva Bruno Pereira da , Corradi-Webster Clarissa Mendonça , Donato Edilaine Cristina da Silva Gherardi , Hayashida Miyeko , Siqueira Marluce Miguel de
Published: June 2015

O objetivo deste estudo é identificar a prevalência de transtornos mentais comuns e consumo de bebida alcoólica e tabaco entre estudantes de enfermagem de uma universidade pública da Amazônia Ocidental brasileira. Trata-se de um estudo exploratório e descritivo, utilizando-se os instrumentos AUDIT, SRQ-20 e questionário de tabagismo. Do total de estudantes, 93,4% afirmou fazer consumo de álcool de baixo risco, porém 26% afirmou beber no padrão binge pelo menos uma vez ao mês. Em relação ao tabaco, 78,6% afirmou ter usado por curiosidade e desejo de experimentar e 46,1% afirmou que "sente-se nervoso, tenso ou preocupado" e que tem "humor depressivo/ansioso". A comparação dos resultados possibilita o planejamento de programas de prevenção mais condizentes com as características e necessidade de cada comunidade.
Prevalência e crenças com relação ao consumo de cigarro pela população universitária
Authors: García-García Pedro , Vázquez-Galindo Laura , Hayashida Miyeko , Santos Manoel Antônio dos
Published: June 2015

O consumo de cigarro representa um dos principais problemas de saúde pública. O objetivo do estudo foi determinar a prevalência e as crenças sobre o consumo do cigarro pela população universitária. Para tanto, empregou-se um desenho descritivo transversal. Os resultados mostraram uma prevalência de consumo no último ano de 24.3% dos participantes (alguma vez na vida o consumo foi de 46.3%). Com relação às crenças desfavoráveis (contras) ao consumo de cigarro, observa-se que uma alta porcentagem dos participantes apresentou barreiras ao consumo de cigarro. Os itens que alcançaram os índices mais altos foram aqueles relacionados com as crenças na área da saúde, como o entendimento de que o cigarro provoca câncer e afeta diretamente os pulmões e o coração.