bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Vitamin K Administration on INR Changes and Bleeding Events Among Patients With Cirrhosis
Authors: Meyer Adam V. , Green Melissa , Pautler Heather M. , Korenblat Kevin , Deal Eli N. , Thoelke Mark S.
Published: January 2016

Background: The efficacy of vitamin K in lowering an elevated INR in the setting of cirrhosis is not well established. Objectives: The purpose of this investigation is to determine the effect of vitamin K administration on the INR and bleeding eventsamong hospitalized patients with cirrhosis. Methods: This is a retrospective investigation of patients hospitalized at an academic institution from 2010 to 2012. Adults with an ICD9 code supporting cirrhosis were segregated into matched cohorts based on provision of vitamin K. Multivariable logistic regression of factors associated with INR decrease and bleeding events was completed. Results: The final matched cohort (n = 276) contained 130 patients who received vitamin K and 146 who did not receive this therapy. ICU care (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.91; 95% CI = 1.54-5.49; P = 0.01), receipt of a blood product (AOR = 2.40; 95%CI = 1.35-4.24; P = 0.03), and baseline INR > 1.6 (AOR = 1.72; 95% CI = 1.00-2.95; P = 0.05), but not vitamin K administration (AOR = 1.17; 95% CI = 0.66-2.08; P = 0.59), were associated with INR decrease. Bleeding events occurred more frequently among patients with a history of esophageal varices (AOR = 6.35; 95% CI = 1.21-33.4; P = 0.03), but vitamin K administration did not have an impact on these events (AOR = 4.90; 95% CI = 0.56-43.0; P = 0.15). Conclusions: Administration of vitamin K did not affect INR changes or bleeding events in this cohort of hospitalized patients with cirrhosis.
Management of infected vascular grafts
Authors: Kilic Arman , Arnaoutakis Dean J , Reifsnyder Thomas , Black James H , Abularrage Christopher J , Perler Bruce A , Lum Ying Wei
Published: January 2016

Infections of vascular grafts are associated with significant mortality and morbidity risk and cost an estimated $640 million annually in the United States. Clinical presentation varies by time elapsed from implantation and by surgical site. A thorough history and physical examination in conjunction with a variety of imaging modalities is often essential to diagnosis. For infected aortic grafts, there are several options for treatment, including graft excision with extra-anatomic bypass, in situ reconstruction, or reconstruction with the neo-aortoiliac system. The management of infected endovascular aortic grafts is similar. For infected peripheral bypasses, graft preservation techniques can be utilized, but in cases where it is not possible, graft removal and revascularization through uninfected tissue planes is necessary. Infected dialysis access can be surgically treated by complete or subtotal graft excision. Diagnosis, general management, and surgical approaches to infected vascular grafts are discussed in this review.
Theoretical implications addressing rural college students’ organ donation behaviors
Authors: Britt Rebecca K , Britt Brian C , Anderson Jennifer
Published: January 2016

The current study used the theory of planned behavior to examine rural college students’ attitudes, normative beliefs, and perceived behavioral control regarding intent to register as organ donors. This effort is done in light of a need to increase intervention efforts among college students, particularly those in rural areas where these undertakings may need to be tailored in grassroots approaches. The study made use of perceived behavioral control as a moderator and found partial support for the model. Findings offer results that scholars, practitioners, and educators can utilize for interventions.
Wounded healers: How formerly incarcerated women help themselves by helping others
Authors: Heidemann Gretchen , Cederbaum Julie A , Martinez Sidney , LeBel Thomas P
Published: January 2016

This mixed methods study explores the role that being a helper/wounded healer has for formerly incarcerated women. Regression analyses examining the influence of a helper/wounded healer orientation on self-esteem and social support are triangulated with in-depth responses to probes regarding the benefits of helping others among a purposive sample of previously incarcerated women. Results reveal that helping others benefits the helper by boosting self-esteem, increasing prosocial activity, and enhancing social connectedness. The culture of “giving back” and being of service to others who are less far along in the recovery/reintegration process is discussed. Implications for policy and practice are offered.
New high-strength low-alloy steels with improved mechanical properties and processability using materials by design
Authors: Grujicic Mica , Snipes JS , Ramaswami S
Published: January 2016

New materials are traditionally developed using costly and time-consuming trial and error experimental efforts. This is followed by an even lengthier material-certification process. Consequently, it takes 10–20 years before a newly discovered material is commercially employed. An alternative approach to the development of new materials is the so-called materials-by-design approach within which a material is treated as a complex system and its design and optimization is carried out by employing computer-aided engineering analyses, predictive tools and available material databases. In the present work, the materials-by-design approach is utilized to redesign a grade of high-strength low-alloy steels with improved mechanical properties (primarily strength and fracture toughness), processability (e.g. castability, hot formability and weldability) and corrosion resistance. Toward that end, a number of material thermodynamics, kinetics of phase transformations, and physics of deformation and fracture computational models and databases have been developed/assembled and utilized within a multidisciplinary, two-level material-by-design optimization scheme. To validate the models, their prediction is compared against the experimental results for the related steel high-strength low-alloy 100. Then the optimization procedure is employed to determine the optimal chemical composition and the tempering schedule for a newly designed high-strength low-alloy steel grade with enhanced mechanical properties, processability and corrosion resistance.
Security of unmanned aerial vehicle systems against cyber-physical attacks
Authors: Rani Chaitanya , Modares Hamidreza , Sriram Raghavendra , Mikulski Dariusz , Lewis Frank L
Published: January 2016

The federal aviation administration has estimated that by the year 2020, the United States will have over 30,000 drones. Nowadays, drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are ubiquitous and have numerous uses beyond military applications. This is because UAVs can be used in hazardous missions, since they exclude the risk factors involved in manned vehicles. Despite their benefits, UAVs are prone to attacks as they are equipped with numerous on-board sensors to gather data and this exposes them to various vulnerabilities. More precisely, in the absence of manual control, an attacker can gain access to sensitive sensory data and feed fraudulent information to the UAV. As a result, it can be reprogrammed to an undesirable effect and this can cause irreversible damage. This paper provides a general overview of current hacking methods, and defense and trust strategies to overcome cyber attacks on UAVs. To further highlight the importance of the requirement of developing new methods to avoid any intrusion, a hacking procedure is implemented on a commercially available UAV and its severe results are demonstrated. It is shown that the hacker can make irreparable damage and take complete control over the UAV by compromising the communication link between the operator and UAV and uses Robot Operating System-based tools to alter the flight path.
Perspectives from the Field
Authors: Sullivan Kristen A. , Berger Miriam B. , Quinlivan Evelyn Byrd , Parnell Heather E. , Sampson Lynne A. , Clymore Jacquelyn M. , Wilkin Aimee M.
Published: January 2016

Background:

HIV testing and linkage to care are critical first steps along the care continuum. Targeted efforts are needed in the South to achieve the goals of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, and qualitative examination of testing and linkage to care from the perspective of professionals in the field can provide nuanced insight into the strengths and limitations of a care system to inform improvement efforts. These issues are explored in North Carolina (NC), with potential applicability to other Southern states.

Methods:

Twenty-one interviews were conducted with professionals in the HIV prevention and care systems in NC. Interviews were analyzed for emergent themes.

Results:

Individuals’ access barriers, aspects of clinics and clinical care, challenges for community-based organizations, stigma, and the role of the NC Department of Health and Human Services were identified as themes affecting testing and linkage.

Discussion:

These findings can inform efforts to address HIV testing and linkage to care in NC. This approach may provide beneficial insight for other systems of care.
Pattern of Mefloquine Ingestions Reported to Texas Poison Centers
Authors: Forrester Mathias B.
Published: January 2016

Background. Mefloquine is an antimalarial drug available in the United States that in 2013 was given a black box warning about the potential for neurologic and psychiatric adverse effects. Objective. This study describes mefloquine ingestions reported to a large statewide poison center system. Methods. The distribution of all mefloquine ingestions reported to Texas poison centers during 2010 to 2014 was determined for dose, year, patient age and gender, exposure site, ingestion reason, management site, medical outcome, clinical effects, and treatments. Results. Of 63 total cases, the mean dose was 672 mg (range = 188-3500 mg). The patient age distribution was 5 years or less (27.0%), 6 to 19 years (12.7%), and 20 years or more (58.7%); 52.4% of the patients were male. Therapeutic errors accounted for 71.4% of the cases and adverse reactions 19.0%. The management site was 52.4% on site, 19.0% already at/en route to a health care facility, and 23.8% referred to a health care facility. The medical outcome was not serious in 79.4% of the cases. The most common adverse effects were gastrointestinal (28.6%) or neurological (20.6%) in nature. One case each was reported to have depression, paranoia, and almost psychotic presentation. Conclusions. Few mefloquine ingestions were reported to Texas poison centers. Those that were reported tended to involve adult males and were due to therapeutic error or adverse reaction. Although mefloquine ingestions may result in potentially serious side effects, the exposures reported to Texas poison centers tended not to be serious with few adverse effects and were managed outside of health care facilities.
FOXO1 activation is an effector of SYK and AKT inhibition in tonic BCR signal-dependent diffuse large B-cell lymphomas
Authors: Szydlowski Maciej , Kiliszek Przemyslaw , Sewastianik Tomasz , Jablonska Ewa , Bialopiotrowicz Emilia , Gorniak Patryk , Polak Anna , Markowicz Sergiusz , Nowak Eliza , Grygorowicz Monika A. , Prochorec-Sobieszek Monika , Szumera-Cieckiewicz Anna , Malenda Agata , Lech-Maranda Ewa , Warzocha Krzysztof , Juszczynski Przemyslaw
Published: January 2016

Key Points

In tonic BCR signal-dependent DLBCLs, FOXO1 is required for SYK and AKT inhibitor-induced toxicity.
Limiting hepatic Bmp-Smad signaling by matriptase-2 is required for erythropoietin-mediated hepcidin suppression in mice
Authors: Nai Antonella , Rubio Aude , Campanella Alessandro , Gourbeyre Ophélie , Artuso Irene , Bordini Jessica , Gineste Aurélie , Latour Chloé , Besson-Fournier Céline , Lin Herbert Y. , Coppin Hélène , Roth Marie-Paule , Camaschella Clara , Silvestri Laura , Meynard Delphine
Published: January 2016

Key Points

Hyperactivation of the BMP-SMAD pathway blunts EPO-mediated hepcidin inhibition. Lack of BMP-SMAD pathway inhibition by matriptase-2 abrogates the ERFE-mediated hepcidin suppression in response to EPO.
The obese gut microbiome across the epidemiologic transition
Authors: Dugas Lara R. , Fuller Miles , Gilbert Jack , Layden Brian T.
Published: January 2016

The obesity epidemic has emerged over the past few decades and is thought to be a result of both genetic and environmental factors. A newly identified factor, the gut microbiota, which is a bacterial ecosystem residing within the gastrointestinal tract of humans, has now been implicated in the obesity epidemic. Importantly, this bacterial community is impacted by external environmental factors through a variety of undefined mechanisms. We focus this review on how the external environment may impact the gut microbiota by considering, the host’s geographic location ‘human geography’, and behavioral factors (diet and physical activity). Moreover, we explore the relationship between the gut microbiota and obesity with these external factors. And finally, we highlight here how an epidemiologic model can be utilized to elucidate causal relationships between the gut microbiota and external environment independently and collectively, and how this will help further define this important new factor in the obesity epidemic.
DSM-IV Axis II personality disorders and suicide and attempted suicide in China
Authors: Tong Yongsheng , Phillips Michael R. , Conner Kenneth R.
Published: January 2016

Background

There are meagre data on Axis II personality disorders and suicidal behaviour in China.

Aims

To describe the prevalence of Axis II personality disorders in suicides and suicide attempts in China and to estimate risk for these outcomes associated with personality disorders.

Method

People who died by suicide (n = 151), people who attempted suicide (n = 118) and living community controls (n = 140) were randomly sampled from four Chinese counties and studied using the Structured Clinical Interviews for DSM-IV-TR Axis I Disorders (SCID-I) and Axis II Personality Disorders (SCID-II). We also determined the prevalence of subthreshold versions of ten DSM-IV personality disorders.

Results

Axis II personality disorders were present in 7% of the suicide group, 6% of the suicide attempt group and 1% of the control group. Threshold and subthreshold personality disorders had adjusted odds ratios (point estimates) in the range of 2.7–8.0 for suicide and for suicide attempts.

Conclusions

Axis II personality disorders may confer increased risk for suicidal behaviour in China, but their low prevalence in the community and among people with suicidal behaviour suggests that other personality constructs such as select dimensional traits may be a more fruitful avenue for understanding and preventing suicide in China.
Cultural differences in stigma surrounding schizophrenia: Comparison between Central Europe and North Africa
Authors: Angermeyer Matthias C. , Carta Mauro G. , Matschinger Herbert , Millier Aurélie , Refaï Tarek , Schomerus Georg , Toumi Mondher
Published: January 2016

Background

Exploring cultural differences may improve understanding about the social processes underlying the stigmatisation of people with mental illness.

Aims

To compare public beliefs and attitudes about schizophrenia in Central Europe and North Africa.

Method

Representative national population surveys conducted in Germany (2011) and in Tunisia (2012), using the same interview mode (face to face) and the same fully structured interview.

Results

In Tunisia, respondents showed a stronger tendency to hold the person with schizophrenia responsible for the condition. At the same time they expressed more prosocial reactions and less fear than their German counterparts. In Germany, the desire for social distance was greater for more distant relationships, whereas in Tunisia this was the case for close, family-related relationships.

Conclusions

Stigma differs between Tunisia and Germany more in form than in magnitude. It manifests particularly in those social roles which ‘matter most’ to people within a given culture.
Ground Motion Model for the Vertical-to-Horizontal (V/H) Ratios of PGA, PGV, and Response Spectra
Authors: Bozorgnia Yousef , Campbell Kenneth W.
Published: January 2016

We present a ground motion model (GMM) for the vertical-to-horizontal (V/H) ratios of peak ground acceleration, peak ground velocity, and 5%-damped pseudo-acceleration response spectra at periods ranging from 0.01 s to 10 s. The V/H GMM includes formulations for the median V/H ratio and for the aleatory within-event, between-event, and total standard deviations. The V/H model is based on the GMMs we have developed for the vertical and “average” horizontal components of ground motion using a mathematical formation that accounts for the correlation between these two components. We validated the V/H model against the NGA-West2 empirical database. We consider our V/H model to be valid for worldwide shallow crustal earthquakes in active tectonic regions for moment magnitudes ranging from 3.3 to 8.5, depending on the style of faulting, and for fault rupture distances ranging from 0 km to 300 km. Our V/H model incorporates period-dependent effects of magnitude saturation, style of faulting, hypocentral depth, fault-rupture dip, geometric attenuation, regionally dependent anelastic attenuation and site response, hanging-wall geometry, and magnitude-dependent between-event and within-event aleatory variabilities. The V/H ratios predicted from the model show a strong dependence on spectral period and site response.
The Commodification of Romanticism: Lola Montès
Authors: Belton John
Published: January 2016

This essay looks at the relationship between the two narrative registers of Max Ophüls's Lola Montès (France, 1955)—the staging of circus attractions in the present and the repeated flashbacks to the past—in terms of the way in which the circus exploits Lola's associations with Romanticism, transforming her into a commodity to be marketed to a modern mass theatrical audience. At the same time, this essay argues that the film questions its own use of spectacle, in particular CinemaScope and Eastman Color, to present its notorious heroine as an object of spectacle for contemporary motion picture audiences.
Reframing the New French Extremity: Cinema, Theory, Mediation
Authors: Resmini Mauro
Published: January 2016

This article examines a recent tendency in contemporary art cinema—the New French Extremity (NFE)—and focuses specifically on a critique of the scholarly discourse that has flourished around it in recent years. The fundamental argument of this discourse can be summarized as follows: by way of extremity, the new film trend foregrounds sensation, which in its aesthetic immediacy provides the point of access to a more authentic reality. This article argues that such a perspective forecloses the complex formal strategies that characterize the films, thus neglecting the crucial role that mediation plays in this so-called cinema of immediacy. Furthermore, this missed encounter between the films of the NFE and the critical discourse about them raises a larger set of questions regarding the status of theory in the field of contemporary film studies, particularly in the dialectical relationship between theory and its object.
PEACE AND KNOWLEDGE POLITICS IN THE UPPER XINGU
Authors: Vanzolini Marina
Published: January 2016

With special reference to the Tupi-speaking Aweti people, this article reconsiders the nature of Xinguan pacifism in an analysis of sorcery and its relation to war in the Upper Xingu region of Brazil. It is argued that the mechanism that keeps violence there under control is probably less the result of an applied pacifist ideology—that is, rejection of war as the socius's generative matrix—than the effect of a specific conception of knowledge. It is through the Xinguans' refusal of the idea of singular truth, rather than through their rejection of war, that their logic is “good to think” through the question of peace. This article divides roughly into two parts, the first concentrating on Xinguan sorcery, and the second on their knowledge politics.
A CONCEPTUAL MODEL FOR MANAGING PROTECTION INFORMATION RESOURCE ELECTRONIC DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Authors: Застрожнов  , Zastrozhnov I. , Рогозин  , Rogozin E. , Обухова  , Obukhova L.
Published: January 2016

The article discusses the concept of organizational and technological protection management information systems electronic document using software tools for information protection. Provides a conceptual model for managing protection information resource electronic document management systems.
REALIZATION MODELING OF PROTECTIVE IN SUBSYSTEMS OF PROTECTION OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION FOR THE RESOURCE IN ELECTRONIC DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Authors: Зиновьев  , Zinovev P. , Обухова  , Obukhova L. , Рогозин  , Rogozin E. , Мачтаков  , Machtakov S.
Published: January 2016

The article describes the structure and composition of typical confidential information resource and the main directions of ensuring information security in electronic document management system.
BASES OF THE SHAPING 3D MODELS FOR DESIGNING MODERN MOS-TRANSISTOR WITH USE THE SYNTHESES TO VIRTUAL REALITY
Authors: Жвад  , Zhvad Akhmed , Лавлинский  , Lavlinskiy V. , Савченко  , Savchenko Andrey
Published: January 2016

Bases of the shaping 3D models are considered In article for designing a modern MOS - transistor with use the syntheses to virtual reality in purpose of the creation in CAD bases electronic component super large scale integration circuit.
Claims, complaints and consent in the small animal dispensary
Authors: Stanford Michael
Published: January 2016

The vast majority of veterinary medicinal products are prescribed and dispensed in the UK without any problems. Nevertheless, a significant number of financial claims against practices and RCVS complaints against individual professionals arise associated with errors in the dispensary. The vast majority result from either simple human error or a failure to obtain informed consent for medicine use from owners. Prior to dispensing, veterinary surgeons should therefore ensure that owners are given the opportunity to learn about and discuss any concerns they may have regarding a medication's potential side effects. They should be directed towards the Summary Product Characteristics (SPC) sheet for further information. The use of written practice protocols and pre-prepared client information sheets would be expected to reduce claims and complaints associated with the small animal dispensary dramatically. Informed consent should be obtained for unauthorised medicine use under Cascade and, while it is not a legal requirement, the RCVS Code stipulates that such consent should be obtained in writing. The SPCs for veterinary medicines are updated regularly online, typically without any warning. Practices should therefore ensure they are aware of any significant changes for the products they use. The majority of RCVS concerns associated with the small animal dispensary concern are related to a failure to obtain informed consent for medicine use of both authorised and unauthorised products.
Aspergillosis: update on causes, diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Carrasco Daniel Calvo , Forbes Neil A.
Published: January 2016

Aspergillosis is one of the commonest diseases seen in avian practice. It is caused by fungi of the genus Aspergillus, mainly by A. fumigatus. Despite this being a well-known disorder, diagnosis and treatment of clinical cases is challenging. Birds will develop disease in two different scenarios: either when exposed to an overwhelming spore challenge or when the bird has a compromised immune system, often due to an underlying immunosuppressive status linked to poor husbandry or concurrent diseases. A presumptive diagnosis is often obtained by a combination of different techniques, including imaging techniques, haematology, biochemistry and serum protein analysis among others. Definitive diagnosis in the live bird is only achieved by endoscopy with cytology or fungal culture of biopsies and identification of samples of affected organs. Antifungal therapy, often based on an azole, is the core of the medical therapy, used in combination with other drugs and supportive care. Treatment is often required for a minimum of 8 weeks and the patient should be monitored long term. Management of aspergillosis should address any potential underlying causes.
Dealing with multi-cat households: understanding how problems develop
Authors: Clark Caroline
Published: January 2016

The domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) continues to be one of the most commonly owned companion animals. Owners may be pressured to house more than one cat, or may misguidedly think that cats require feline companionship. However, being forced to co-exist with unrelated individuals in a densely populated home is a potential source of feline stress, and in 2015, Cats Protection ( www.cats.org.uk ) saw an eighteen percent increase in the number of cats entering adoption centres due to cohabiting cats not getting along. When problems occur, it is often the veterinary practice that owners will turn to for advice, although in many cases this is only once the situation has become critical. The veterinary team therefore have a major role in educating the client, and being able to provide advice on the needs of the cat can assist in reducing problem behaviours. This two-part article looks at some common behaviour problems associated with cats living in a multi-cat household and provides strategies to help prevent, manage and treat them. Part one provides an insight into normal feline behaviour patterns and their complex social system. It examines the cat's species-specific requirements, and descriptions of how they communicate are provided to help gain an understanding of why problems occur. Opportunities for educating the client are considered and an account of some of the most commonly encountered behaviour problems and conditions are presented. Part two will concentrate on strategies to help manage cats living in a multi-cat household.
Pain in the orofacial region. Part 1: an overview
Authors: Renton Tara
Published: January 2016

This three-part series examines pain in the orofacial region. The first article provides an overview of pain in the trigeminal sensory region
Is IV paracetamol as effective an analgesic as IV morphine for patients in non-cardiac pain? A literature review
Authors: Grimson Samuel Duplessis
Published: January 2016

Since the introduction of IV paracetamol to UK ambulance services in 2012 there has been some debate as to which is the better analgesic, IV paracetamol or IV morphine. This literature review was designed to compare the effectiveness of IV paracetamol and IV morphine and consider whether IV paracetamol has any morphine sparing effects. A clinical question was constructed asking: ‘Is IV paracetamol as effective an analgesic as IV morphine for patients in non-cardiac pain?’ and inputted into a variety of journal databases. This returned 2 952 articles, of which 60 abstracts were read and 9 were reviewed, after relevant exclusions were made. It was found that IV paracetamol is as effective as IV morphine and consistently causes fewer adverse reactions, if given as a stand-alone medication. The review suggests that IV paracetamol could significantly reduce the dose of IV morphine required for post-operative patients. The review recommends that paramedics should favour administering IV paracetamol rather than IV morphine, if the clinician is faced with a choice. Current guidelines need to be updated in line with current research that demonstrates the effectiveness and safety of IV paracetamol.
Preview of The Larrey Society Conference—‘EMS…in times of crisis’
Authors: Davis David
Published: January 2016

The Larrey Society's first annual conference takes place on 21 January. David Davis, the society's founder and chairman, gives a preview of what delegates can expect, including confirmed speakers and topics of discussion.
Friendly pharmacodynamics: A simple introduction
Authors: Hughes Gwen
Published: January 2016

Pharmacodynamics refers to the effect of a drug on the body; the topic encompasses not only the means by which drug receptors interact to produce their response, but also quantifies the medicine's effects on individuals and even populations. Understanding the basics of pharmacodynamics provides answers to questions such as ‘how does this drug work?’ and ‘how much is needed to safely treat the patient?’ Pharmacodynamics delves into tricky fields such as molecular biology and biological chemistry, but despite the depth and breadth of the topics it spans, understanding the core principles is necessary for effective therapeutic practice. This article helps to provide an appreciation of considerations underlying drugs used and concentration choices. Initially, to allow an understanding of how different responses are elicited, an overview of how drugs and receptors interact to produce a response is given.
Pain and side effects in older people
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: January 2016

Older people are more likely to experience pain than younger people and, as the population ages, greater numbers of people are likely to require pain management. Age-related changes, the physiological changes caused by long-term conditions and medication used to treat comorbidities have an impact on pain and how it can be managed. This article examines the prevalence of pain, types of pain, how ageing and long-term conditions affect pain and treatment considerations, and how to work with the older person to improve pain control, minimise side effects and maximise concordance.
Understanding common lung diseases in older adults
Authors: Perry Margaret
Published: January 2016

Lung diseases are common in older adults. The lungs, like other organs, are subject to a number of changes as we age. This article covers some common conditions that occur in older adults: bronchiectasis, asbestosis, pulmonary fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The practice nurse is likely to see patients affected by these conditions and requires an understanding of the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, and treatments used for these diseases, so that they can provide advice and support.
Treating eczema in the older person in primary care
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: January 2016

Practice nurses are in a good position to notice the skin changes of elderly people under their care. Patients with eczema problems should be advised to avoid drying the skin, to moisturize the skin with emollients, and, where necessary, to use topical corticosteroids to calm eczematous flare-ups. Practice nurses should also treat bacterial infections accompanying eczema, but in severe cases medical advice and/or hospital admission should be considered.
Identifying and controlling hazards to operating theatre personnel
Authors: Kerrigan Lynne
Published: January 2016

Safety in the operating theatre for both staff and patients requires careful planning, use of appropriate personal protective equipment and demands daily attention by all members of the surgical team and support staff.

This article aims to serve as a reminder of the potential hazards in the operating theatre and as a means of raising awareness of the potential risks. Working in an operating theatre is never going to be without risk, however if each member of theatre personnel develops the habit of focusing on both patient safety and occupational safety at the same time, risks and hazards may be minimised.
Nursing a patient with feline urethral obstruction — a patient care report
Authors: Orme Hannah
Published: January 2016

Feline urethral obstruction is a potentially life threatening emergency which requires immediate attention. A nursing care plan ensures that veterinary nurses are able to tailor care based on the patient's individual needs. Fluid therapy, pain assessments and catheter care are just three of the areas that require particular attention. This report aims to discuss the importance of these nursing interventions in an emergency situation.
We wish you a merry itchmas!
Authors: Stokes Laura
Published: January 2016

We all know that fleas like warm, mild weather. They thrive in the spring and through the summer, with their numbers typically declining into the autumn and over the winter. But what happens when our seasons merge? Are fleas now a year round problem?
Aspects of androgen replacement therapy for the treatment of hypogonadism in men with diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Authors: Роживанов Роман Викторович , Яшина Юлия Николаевна
Published: January 2016

The article presents the results of studies of efficacy and safety of androgen therapy for hypogonadism, metabolic syndrome and type 2diabetes mellitus in men. In the study was used testosterone undecanoate therapy which causes reduction of obesity, a decrease in theseverity of the other components of the metabolic syndrome, improving glycemic profile without significant side effects. Nevertheless,this therapy requires monitoring and management for risk factors.
Comparative efficacy and safety of generic (Bergolak) vs. brand cabergoline in the treatment of patients with prolactin-secreting tumors
Authors: Melnichenko Galina Afanas'evna , Dzeranova Larisa Konstantinovna , Pigarova Ekaterina Aleksandrovna , Vorotnikova Svetlana Yur'evna
Published: January 2016

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of cabergoline drug Bergolak («Veropharm», Russia) in the treatment of patients with prolactin-secreting tumors.Materials and methods: The study included 14 patients (14 women, mean age 46±12) diagnosed with prolactinoma. The patients were switched to Bergolak after 1 month of treatment by original cabergoline. Dose of cabergoline varied from 0,125 mg to 3,25 mg per week. Prolactin level, symptoms of hyperprolactinemic hypogonadism, side-effects were evaluated at the baseline, after 1 month of original cabergoline treatment and 1 and 2 months of Bergolak therapy.Results: Statistical differences in the level of prolactin (p 0.05), and the incidence of side-effects (p 0.43) during Bergolak therapy in comparison with the original drug was not registered.Conclusions: Bergolak showed to be effective drug for  treatment of patients with prolactin-secreting tumors. The incidence of side-effects during Bergolak therapy is equal to the original cabergoline treatment.
A new monomeric triagonist corrects obesity and diabetes in rodents
Authors: Andreeva Svetlana Igorevna
Published: January 2016

A new monomeric triagonist corrects obesity and diabetes in rodents
Relationship between metformin and frailty syndrome in elderly people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Andreeva Svetlana Igorevna
Published: January 2016

Relationship between metformin and frailty syndrome in elderly people with type 2 diabetes
Hormonal status and the orexin system in obese patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome
Authors: Strueva Natalya Viktorovna , Melnichenko Galina Afanas'evna , Poluektov Mikhail Gur'evich , Savel'eva Larisa Viktorovna , Katsya Gulinara Viktorovna , Goncharov Nikolay Petrovich
Published: January 2016

The aim of research was to estimate the influence of hormone metabolism and sleep apnea on patients with obesity. 76 patients (37 males and 39 females) with obesity were included in this study. After night polysomnography all patients were divided in two groups comparableby age, sex ratio and BMI. The first group consisted of 41 patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), the second (controls) – 35 patients without breath disorders during sleep. OSAS is accompanied by the increase in urinary cortisol during the night, high levels ofbasal insulin, disturbances of hepatic production of IGF-1, dysfunction of the pituitary-gonadal axis. Our results show that sleep-related breathing disorders render markedly and negatively affect on hormonal parameters of patients with obesity. As a reliable difference of basalsecretion of orexin A in obese patients with and without OSAS was not revealed (42,0 [14; 99,5] vs. 18,0 [14,5; 124,5] pg/ml; р=0,9), we were not able to show the existence that the existence of OSAS is followed by any special changes of activity of the orexin system.
Obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: metabolic risks and their correction
Authors: Komshilova Kseniya Andreevna , Troshina Ekaterina Anatol'evna
Published: January 2016

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) – a common chronic disease of the liver, the main feature of which is the accumulation of fat in hepatocytes, is not related to alcohol abuse. NAFLD is associated with obesity, especially abdominal, metabolic syndrome and various metabolic markers of risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, which affects the incidence, prognosis and life expectancy of patients with obesity. This lecture describes the main causes of the disease, its pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment.
Antiproliferative effect of metformin on the endometrium
Authors: Andreeva Svetlana Igorevna
Published: January 2016

Antiproliferative effect of metformin on the endometrium
Down to the Nitty-Gritty: A case study of Collection Policies and Procedures in the Ethnology Department at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History
Authors: Allen Stephanie L.
Published: January 2016

Although most museum professionals understand the differences between a Collection Management Policy (CMP) and collection procedures, many find it difficult to create, update, and implement these different documents. The creation of a procedural manual for the Ethnology Department at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (SNOMNH) at the University of Oklahoma and an update of SNOMNH’s CMP led to an examination of the differences between policies and procedures, the varying processes of creating and/or updating these different documents, the difficulties of policy/procedure implementation, and the ultimate necessity of both types of documents.
Communicating pesticide contamination messages
Authors: Henderson Jane , Rumsey Kloe
Published: January 2016

Over the last two decades, an increased understanding of the extent of pesticide contamination of organic collections in museums, particularly natural science and ethnographic collections, has developed. This paper explores the intellectual and emotional responses to messages about pesticide risks in museums and reports on the impact of wording on risk warnings. Six risk phrases using different terminology but intended to represent the same danger of pesticide contamination were evaluated by 103 museum staff. We found that how a message was delivered, the degree of science education of users, and phrases associated with hazards affected how a message was perceived. The delivery of risk warnings and the effective communication of collections-based hazards in museums are essential to responsible collections use, particularly those of scientific (Natural History) and cultural (Ethnographic) importance, where collections are most likely to be contaminated with hazardous substances. The results presented are a first step to understanding how the communication of pesticide risks in museums is understood by users of the collections. By understanding how a message is perceived, we provide advice to museum staff about language use for risk communication projects and management of behaviors.
On Henry Giroux: Foreword to America's Addiction to Terrorism
Authors: Yates Michael D.
Published: January 2016

Henry Giroux is a phenomenon. He has written more than sixty books, authored hundreds of essays, won numerous awards, and been an outstanding teacher for nearly forty years.… What distinguishes Giroux's writing is a combination of lucid analysis and incisive and justifiably harsh criticism of the deterioration of the human condition under the onslaught of a savage modern-day capitalism. However, his examination of this savagery does not stop with a description of the vicious attacks on working people by corporations and their allies in government. Nor is it content to enumerate the economic, political, and social consequences of these assaults, such as the rise in poverty, stagnating wages, unconscionably high unemployment, deteriorating health, the astonishing increase in the prison population, and a general increase in material insecurity to name a few. Instead, he goes beyond these to interrogate the more subtle but no less devastating effects of neoliberal capitalism, and by implication capitalism itself, on our psyches and on our capacity to resist our growing immiseration.

Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.
Marx the Feminist?
Authors: Hormel Leontina M.
Published: January 2016

Heather A. Brown, Marx on Gender and the Family: A Critical Study (Chicago: Haymarket, 2012), 323 pages, $28.00, paperback.

Silvia Federici, Revolution at Point Zero: Housework, Reproduction, and Feminist Struggle (Oakland: PM Press, 2012), 189 pages, $15.95, paperback.
In the face of global economic crisis and the dismantling of social programs under austerity policies, many feminists are re-engaging Marx's critique of capitalism. This return to Marx is necessary if we are effectively to overcome gender oppression, especially since the latest trends in feminism—or at least those "fit to print" and discussed in the popular press—place the onus of equal treatment squarely on women's shoulders. Newfound feminists like Sheryl Sandberg advise women to "lean in" and adjust their behavior to suit the aggressively entrepreneurial norms rewarded in the real world that men lead. As Nancy Fraser aptly puts it, these tendencies within feminism serve as "capitalism's handmaiden": such identity-centered, cultural critiques have helped obscure capital's dependency on gendered oppressions.… Fortunately, recent scholarship by Heather Brown as well as Federici herself provides useful insights for feminists on how to reconsider Marxist theory.

Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.
Robust switched controller design for linear continuous-time systems
Authors: Ilka Adrian , Veselý Vojtech
Published: January 2016

In this paper we study a novel approach to the design of a robust switched controller for continuous-time systems described by a novel robust plant model using quadratic stability and multi parameter dependent quadratic stability approaches. In the proposed design procedure with an output feedback a novel quadratic cost function is proposed which allows to obtain different performance dependence on the working points. Finally a numerical examples are investigated.
Disturbance attenuation problem using a differential game approach for feedback linear quadratic descriptor systems
Authors: Musthofa Muhammad Wakhid
Published: January 2016

This paper studies the H∞ disturbance attenuation problem for index one descriptor systems using the theory of differential games. To solve this disturbance attenuation problem the problem is converted into a reduced ordinary zero-sum game. Within a linear quadratic setting the problem is solved for feedback information structure.
Reference trajectory tracking for a multi-DOF robot arm
Authors: Krasňanský Róbert , Valach Peter , Soós Dávid , Zarbakhsh Javad
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the problem of tracking the generated reference trajectory by the simulation model of a multi-DOF robot arm. The kinematic transformation between task space and joint configuration coordinates is nonlinear and configuration dependent. To obtain the solution of the forward kinematics problem, the homogeneous transformation matrix is used. A solution to the inverse kinematics is a vector of joint configuration coordinates calculated using of pseudoinverse Jacobian technique. These coordinates correspond to a set of task space coordinates. The algorithm is presented which uses iterative solution and is simplified by considering stepper motors in robot arm joints. The reference trajectory in Cartesian coordinate system is generated on-line by the signal generator previously developed in MS Excel. Dynamic Data Exchange communication protocol allows sharing data with Matlab-Simulink. These data represent the reference tracking trajectory of the end effector. Matlab-Simulink software is used to calculate the representative joint rotations. The proposed algorithm is demonstrated experimentally on the model of 7-DOF robot arm system.
Analysis Of The Method Of Predictive Control Applicable To Active Magnetic Suspension Systems Of Aircraft Engines
Authors: Kurnyta-Mazurek Paulina , Henzel Maciej , Kurnyta Artur
Published: January 2016

Conventional controllers are usually synthesized on the basis of already known parameters associated with the model developed for the object to be controlled. However, sometimes it proves extremely difficult or even infeasible to find out these parameters, in particular when they subject to changes during the exploitation lifetime. If so, much more sophisticated control methods have to be applied, e.g. the method of predictive control. Thus, the paper deals with application of the predictive control approach to follow-up tracking of an active magnetic suspension where the mathematical and simulation models for such a control system are disclosed with preliminary results from simulation investigations of the control system in question.
Rehabilitation of a Female Patient after Corrective Surgery for Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Cvetković Jovana , Đorđević Dragan Đ , Šljivić Milan , Ilić Marina Deljanin
Published: January 2016

Herein we present a 25-year-old female patient with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). This congenital heart defect is not very common, but it is the most common one among cyanotic heart defects. Treatment of the patients with TF is surgical, with palliative or curative (corrective) intent. Our patient underwent palliative surgery, definitive correction, and another surgery for pulmonary valve insufficiency. During cardiovascular rehabilitation, the patient was rhythmically stable, with excellent tolerance of physical exertion. Bearing in mind that this was a young female person who previously had had two spontaneous abortions, pregnancy was not absolutely contraindicated, although spontaneous abortion and pregnancy complications were more common in these patients.
Clinical significance of anti-C1q antibodies in SLE
Authors: Stiborová Ivana , Král Vlastimil , Rovenský Jozef , Blažíčková Stanislava
Published: January 2016

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a severe and frequent complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Untreated cases very often lead to patients’ death; therefore, it is important to use markers sensitive and specific enough for the diagnosis and subsequent monitoring of nephritis. Autoantibodies against double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) are believed to play a major role in SLE in general and so their significance in prediction and monitoring of glomerular inflammation is low. For prediction of renal flares and effective, well-timed therapy, it is required to have an appropriate marker available. In our study, we have tested sera of 85 SLE patients with or without LN. The criterion for LN determination was the degree of proteinuria (persistent proteinuria > 0.5 g/day, according to ACR criteria for LN). Disease activity was described by SLE disease index (SLEDAI) score, renal functions were stated according to British Isles Lupus Assessment Group score. There were anti-C1q, total anti-dsDNA and high-avidity anti-dsDNA detected in the patients’ sera. We did not find any significant difference in average SLEDAI value between patients with renal and non-renal organ complications. Positivity of anti-C1q was more frequent in patients with nephritis than in those without any history of renal disease (58.3 vs. 39.1%). Higher prevalence of these antibodies was evident in patients with clinically active LN than in those without renal improvement (73.1 vs. 39.1%). When comparing anti-C1q with antibodies against structures of DNA, significant differences were found in case of high avidity anti-dsDNA. Our results have confirmed the studies showing that anti-C1q antibodies could serve as a reliable serological marker of LN activity along with other laboratory tests. Detection of anti-C1q together with high avidity anti-dsDNA antibodies seems to be a good algorithm for the prediction of possible renal flares in SLE patients.