bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ferrocene Molecular Architectures Grafted on Si(111): A Theoretical Calculation of the Standard Oxidation Potentials and Electron Transfer Rate Constant
Authors: Fontanesi Claudio , Innocenti Massimo , Vanossi Davide , Da Como Enrico
Published: September 2017

The standard oxidation potential and the electron transfer (ET) rate constants of two silicon-based hybrid interfaces, Si(111)/organic-spacer/Ferrocene, are theoretically calculated and assessed. The dynamics of the electrochemical driven ET process is modeled in terms of the classical donor/acceptor scheme within the framework of “Marcus theory”. The ET rate constants, k E T , are determined following calculation of the electron transfer matrix element, V R P , together with the knowledge of the energy of the neutral and charge separated systems. The recently introduced Constrained Density Functional Theory (CDFT) method is exploited to optimize the structure and determine the energy of the charge separated species. Calculated ET rate constants are k E T = 77.8 s − 1 and k E T = 1.3 × 10 − 9 s − 1 , in the case of the short and long organic-spacer, respectively.
Surface Modification of Polymer Substrates for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Neděla Oldřich , Slepička Petr , Švorčík Václav
Published: September 2017

While polymers are widely utilized materials in the biomedical industry, they are rarely used in an unmodified state. Some kind of a surface treatment is often necessary to achieve properties suitable for specific applications. There are multiple methods of surface treatment, each with their own pros and cons, such as plasma and laser treatment, UV lamp modification, etching, grafting, metallization, ion sputtering and others. An appropriate treatment can change the physico-chemical properties of the surface of a polymer in a way that makes it attractive for a variety of biological compounds, or, on the contrary, makes the polymer exhibit antibacterial or cytotoxic properties, thus making the polymer usable in a variety of biomedical applications. This review examines four popular methods of polymer surface modification: laser treatment, ion implantation, plasma treatment and nanoparticle grafting. Surface treatment-induced changes of the physico-chemical properties, morphology, chemical composition and biocompatibility of a variety of polymer substrates are studied. Relevant biological methods are used to determine the influence of various surface treatments and grafting processes on the biocompatibility of the new surfaces—mammalian cell adhesion and proliferation is studied as well as other potential applications of the surface-treated polymer substrates in the biomedical industry.
Improving the Process of Adjusting the Parameters of Finite Element Models of Healthy Human Intervertebral Discs by the Multi-Response Surface Method
Authors: Gómez Fátima , Lorza Rubén , Bobadilla Marina , García Rubén
Published: September 2017

The kinematic behavior of models that are based on the finite element method (FEM) for modeling the human body depends greatly on an accurate estimate of the parameters that define such models. This task is complex, and any small difference between the actual biomaterial model and the simulation model based on FEM can be amplified enormously in the presence of nonlinearities. The current paper attempts to demonstrate how a combination of the FEM and the MRS methods with desirability functions can be used to obtain the material parameters that are most appropriate for use in defining the behavior of Finite Element (FE) models of the healthy human lumbar intervertebral disc (IVD). The FE model parameters were adjusted on the basis of experimental data from selected standard tests (compression, flexion, extension, shear, lateral bending, and torsion) and were developed as follows: First, three-dimensional parameterized FE models were generated on the basis of the mentioned standard tests. Then, 11 parameters were selected to define the proposed parameterized FE models. For each of the standard tests, regression models were generated using MRS to model the six stiffness and nine bulges of the healthy IVD models that were created by changing the parameters of the FE models. The optimal combination of the 11 parameters was based on three different adjustment criteria. The latter, in turn, were based on the combination of stiffness and bulges that were obtained from the standard test FE simulations. The first adjustment criteria considered stiffness and bulges to be equally important in the adjustment of FE model parameters. The second adjustment criteria considered stiffness as most important, whereas the third considered the bulges to be most important. The proposed adjustment methods were applied to a medium-sized human IVD that corresponded to the L3–L4 lumbar level with standard dimensions of width = 50 mm, depth = 35 mm, and height = 10 mm. Agreement between the kinematic behavior that was obtained with the optimized parameters and that obtained from the literature demonstrated that the proposed method is a powerful tool with which to adjust healthy IVD FE models when there are many parameters, stiffnesses, and bulges to which the models must adjust.
Study of the Precipitation Hardening Behaviour and Intergranular Corrosion of Al-Mg-Si Alloys with Differing Si Contents
Authors: Zheng Yaya , Luo Binghui , Bai Zhenhai , Wang Juan , Yin Yuan
Published: September 2017

The effects of Si addition on the precipitation hardening behaviour and evolution of intergranular corrosion (IGC) of Al-Mg-Si alloys were investigated using hardness tests, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), potentiodynamic polarization measurements, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). With an increase of the Si content, the peak hardness of the Al-Mg-Si alloys considerably increased by enhancing the density of the β″ (Mg5Si6) phase inside the grains. The microstructures affecting the IGC performance consisted of MgSi particles, Si particles, Al-Fe-Mn-Si intermetallics, and the precipitate-free zone (PFZ). The IGC susceptibility of the Al-Mg-Si alloys was mainly attributed to the high electrochemical potential difference between the MgSi particles and solute-depleted zones. Excess Si improved the IGC susceptibility of the alloys, mainly due to an increase of the grain boundary MgSi precipitates. Furthermore, the evolution of the IGC process was discussed in detail.
N-Halamine Biocidal Materials with Superior Antimicrobial Efficacies for Wound Dressings
Authors: Demir Buket , Broughton Roy , Qiao Mingyu , Huang Tung-Shi , Worley S.
Published: September 2017

This work demonstrated the successful application of N-halamine technology for wound dressings rendered antimicrobial by facile and inexpensive processes. Four N-halamine compounds, which possess different functional groups and chemistry, were synthesized. The N-halamine compounds, which contained oxidative chlorine, the source of antimicrobial activity, were impregnated into or coated onto standard non-antimicrobial wound dressings. N-halamine-employed wound dressings inactivated about 6 to 7 logs of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria in brief periods of contact time. Moreover, the N-halamine-modified wound dressings showed superior antimicrobial efficacies when compared to commercially available silver wound dressings. Zone of inhibition tests revealed that there was no significant leaching of the oxidative chlorine from the materials, and inactivation of bacteria occurred by direct contact. Shelf life stability tests showed that the dressings were stable to loss of oxidative chlorine when they were stored for 6 months in dark environmental conditions. They also remained stable under florescent lighting for up to 2 months of storage. They could be stored in opaque packaging to improve their shelf life stabilities. In vitro skin irritation testing was performed using a three-dimensional human reconstructed tissue model (EpiDerm™). No potential skin irritation was observed. In vitro cytocompatibility was also evaluated. These results indicate that N-halamine wound dressings potentially can be employed to prevent infections, while at the same time improving the healing process by eliminating undesired bacterial growth.
Concentration Effect on Quenching of Chlorophyll a Fluorescence by All-Trans-β-Carotene in Photosynthesis
Authors: Chen Chen , Gong Nan , Li Zuowei , Sun Chenglin , Men Zhiwei
Published: September 2017

Absorption, fluorescence spectra of chlorophyll a (Chl-a) and all-trans-β-carotene (β-Car) mixing solution are investigated in different polarity and polarizability solvents. The carotenoids regulate the energy flow in photosynthesis by interaction with chlorophyll, leading to an observable reduction of Chl-a fluorescence. The fluorescence red shifts with the increasing solvent polarizability. The energy transfer in the Chl-a and β-Car system is proposed. The electron transfer should be dominant in quenching Chl-a fluorescence rather than the energy transfer in this system. Polar solvent with large polarizability shows high quenching efficiency. When dissolved in carbon tetrachloride, Chl-a presents red shift of absorption and blue shift of fluorescence spectra with increasing β-Car concentration, which implies a Chl-a conformational change.
Breakfast and Breakfast Cereal Choice and Its Impact on Nutrient and Sugar Intakes and Anthropometric Measures among a Nationally Representative Sample of Australian Children and Adolescents
Authors: Fayet-Moore Flavia , McConnell Andrew , Tuck Kate , Petocz Peter
Published: September 2017

There is limited evidence in Australia that compares the nutritional impact of a breakfast cereal breakfast to a non-cereal breakfast, and includes the type of cereal. This study investigated the impact of breakfast choice and the total sugar content of breakfast cereal on nutrient intakes and anthropometric measures among Australian children and adolescents. Data from 2 to 18-year-old in the 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey were used (n = 2821). Participants were classified as breakfast cereal consumers (minimally pre-sweetened (MPS) or pre-sweetened (PS)), non-cereal breakfast consumers, or breakfast skippers. Foods consumed for breakfast, foods added to the cereal bowl, and the impact of breakfast choice on daily nutrient intakes and anthropometric measures were determined. Although only 9% of children skipped breakfast, 61% of skippers were aged 14–18 years. Among breakfast consumers, 49% had breakfast cereal, and 62% of these exclusively consumed MPS cereal. Breakfast skippers had a higher saturated fat intake than breakfast cereal consumers, and lower intakes of dietary fibre and most micronutrients (p < 0.001). Compared with non-cereal breakfast consumers, breakfast cereal consumers had similar added and free sugars intakes, lower sodium, and higher total sugars, carbohydrate, dietary fibre, and almost all other micronutrients (p < 0.001). The only difference in nutrient intakes between MPS and PS cereal consumers was higher folate among PS consumers. No associations between anthropometric measures and breakfast or breakfast cereal choice were found. The highest prevalence of breakfast skipping was among 14–18-year old. Breakfast cereal consumers had higher intakes of dietary fibre and most micronutrients compared with non-cereal breakfast consumers and skippers, and almost no differences were found between MPS and PS cereal consumers.
Biological Mechanisms by Which Antiproliferative Actions of Resveratrol Are Minimized
Authors: Ho Yih , Lin Yu-Syuan , Liu Hsuan-Liang , Shih Ya-Jung , Lin Shin-Ying , Shih Ai , Chin Yu-Tang , Chen Yi-Ru , Lin Hung-Yun , Davis Paul
Published: September 2017

Preclinical and clinical studies have offered evidence for protective effects of various polyphenol-rich foods against cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancers. Resveratrol is among the most widely studied polyphenols. However, the preventive and treatment effectiveness of resveratrol in cancer remain controversial because of certain limitations in existing studies. For example, studies of the activity of resveratrol against cancer cell lines in vitro have often been conducted at concentrations in the low μM to mM range, whereas dietary resveratrol or resveratrol-containing wine rarely achieve nM concentrations in the clinic. While the mechanisms underlying the failure of resveratrol to inhibit cancer growth in the intact organism are not fully understood, the interference by thyroid hormones with the anticancer activity of resveratrol have been well documented in both in vitro and xenograft studies. Thus, endogenous thyroid hormones may explain the failure of anticancer actions of resveratrol in intact animals, or in the clinic. In this review, mechanisms involved in resveratrol-induced antiproliferation and effects of thyroid hormones on these mechanisms are discussed.
Reframing Catholic Theological Ethics from a Scotistic Perspective
Authors: Polgar Nenad
Published: September 2017

The article engages with Joseph Selling’s most recent publication Reframing Catholic Theological Ethics in which he invites theological ethicists to re-think the post-Tridentine development of theological ethics by noting its methodological deficiencies, misrepresentation of sources, and an insufficient interest in the most fundamental question: What is it that we are trying to achieve in our moral lives in the first place? In order to re-orient the discipline, Selling proposes a new reading of Thomas Aquinas’ Treatise on Human Acts (ST I-II, 1-21), but the present author argues that this might not be enough, given the debate within the discipline on how Aquinas’ text ought to be interpreted. Hence, the author proposes an alternative route to ‘reframing Catholic theological ethics’ via the works of John Duns Scotus and explores his ethical ideas that might be pertinent for such a project. The main focus of the article is a reflection on Scotus’ ‘case study’ of marriage and bigamy in the Old Testament that justifies drawing a parallel between his work and Selling’s attempt to reframe Catholic theological ethics.
Does Collaboration Lead to Sustainability? A Study of Public–Private Partnerships in the Swedish Mountains
Authors: Bjärstig Therese
Published: September 2017

The conflicts that frequently manifest in the Swedish mountains often stem from the use and preservation of natural resources. Resistance against protected area proposals, protests concerning the management of large carnivores, the felling of old-growth forests, and disputes over who should be allowed to hunt or fish are all commonplace. There are currently strong trends, both in national and international policy making, towards leaning on various forms of collaborative governance arrangements to deal with such policy failures. Consequently, various forms of partnerships have been initiated to promote more sustainable practices in the mountain regions of Sweden. To what extent has the creation of these collaborative partnerships in natural resource management improved policy output and sustainability outcomes? To examine the issue, data was extracted from 47 semi-structured interviews with 39 project leaders and eight county officials, with the sample randomly selected from a database of 245 public–private collaborative projects in the Swedish mountains. The results indicate that partnerships do lead to improved sustainability, especially when it comes to social outcomes. However, there is a need for more systematic follow-ups by practitioners, particularly on ecological outcomes, where the country administrative boards should take a leading role and facilitate such evaluations in the future.
Sustainable Consumer Behaviour: A Collection of Empirical Studies
Authors: Antonides Gerrit
Published: September 2017

We summarise the contributions in this special issue on sustainable consumer behaviour and place them in perspective. Several studies focus on macro- and meso-issues, and others on micro-issues of consumer behaviour. The studies employ a variety of methods, including surveys, field experiments, eye tracking, scale development, and contingent valuation. The 12 contributions from authors of 13 different countries show the wide and varied application of consumer research focused on sustainability issues.
Invasion of Dendritic Cells, Macrophages and Neutrophils by the Bordetella Adenylate Cyclase Toxin: A Subversive Move to Fool Host Immunity
Authors: Fedele Giorgio , Schiavoni Ilaria , Adkins Irena , Klimova Nela , Sebo Peter
Published: September 2017

Adenylate cyclase toxin (CyaA) is released in the course of B. pertussis infection in the host’s respiratory tract in order to suppress its early innate and subsequent adaptive immune defense. CD11b-expressing dendritic cells (DC), macrophages and neutrophils are professional phagocytes and key players of the innate immune system that provide a first line of defense against invading pathogens. Recent findings revealed the capacity of B. pertussis CyaA to intoxicate DC with high concentrations of 3′,5′-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), which ultimately skews the host immune response towards the expansion of Th17 cells and regulatory T cells. CyaA-induced cAMP signaling swiftly incapacitates opsonophagocytosis, oxidative burst and NO-mediated killing of bacteria by neutrophils and macrophages. The subversion of host immune responses by CyaA after delivery into DC, macrophages and neutrophils is the subject of this review.
Understanding the Mechanism of Translocation of Adenylate Cyclase Toxin across Biological Membranes
Authors: Ostolaza Helena , Martín César , González-Bullón David , Uribe Kepa , Etxaniz Asier
Published: September 2017

Adenylate cyclase toxin (ACT) is one of the principal virulence factors secreted by the whooping cough causative bacterium Bordetella pertussis, and it has a critical role in colonization of the respiratory tract and establishment of the disease. ACT targets phagocytes via binding to the CD11b/CD18 integrin and delivers its N-terminal adenylate cyclase (AC) domain directly to the cell cytosol, where it catalyzes unregulated conversion of cytosolic ATP into cAMP upon activation by binding to cellular calmodulin. High cAMP levels disrupt bactericidal functions of the immune cells, ultimately leading to cell death. In spite of its relevance in the ACT biology, the mechanism by which its ≈400 amino acid-long AC domain is transported through the target plasma membrane, and is released into the target cytosol, remains enigmatic. This article is devoted to refresh our knowledge on the mechanism of AC translocation across biological membranes. Two models, the so-called “two-step model” and the recently-proposed “toroidal pore model”, will be considered.
Poverty, Dietary Intake, Intestinal Parasites, and Nutritional Status among School-Age Children in the Rural Philippines
Authors: Ross Allen , Papier Keren , Luceres-Catubig Ruby , Chau Thao , Inobaya Marianette , Ng Shu-Kay
Published: September 2017

Intestinal helminths are endemic throughout the Philippines; however, there is limited evidence with respect to their prevalence, intensity, and impact on children’s nutritional status. A cross-sectional survey was carried out on 693 children from five rural villages in Northern Samar, the Philippines. Data on dietary intake, nutritional status, and intestinal parasites were collected. Infection with Schistosoma japonicum, Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and hookworm was evident in 20.1, 54.4, 71.4, and 25.3% of the children. The majority (84.7%) was infected with one or more helminth species, with about one-quarter of the sample (24.7%) infected with three or more. About half (49.2%, n = 341) of the children were stunted and 27.8% (n = 193) were wasted. A lower prevalence of normal height-for-age (48.3%) appeared in those with polyparasitism, while the prevalence of stunted children increased with infection (46.7% monoparasitism and 51.7% polyparasitism). There was a decreasing trend between infection intensity and the mean values of HAZ and BAZ identified for T. trichiura or hookworm infections. Stunted children were more likely to be male (AOR = 1.58; 95% CI: 1.05–2.39; p = 0.028), older in age (10–14 years) (AOR = 1.93; 95% CI: 1.29–2.88; p = 0.001), and living in poorer households with palm leaves/nipa roof (AOR = 1.85; 95% CI: 1.14–3.01; p = 0.013). Intestinal parasitic treatment needs to be combined with nutrient supplements and health education in order to interrupt the parasite life cycle and achieve sustainable control.
ASSESSMENT OF URBAN SPRAWL USING SHANNON’S ENTROPY AND FRACTAL ANALYSIS: A CASE STUDY OF ATAKUM, ILKADIM AND CANIK (SAMSUN, TURKEY)
Authors: OZTURK Derya
Published: September 2017

Urban sprawl is one of the most important problems in urban development due to its negative environmental and societal impacts. Therefore, the spatial pattern of urban growth should be accurately analyzed and well understood for effective urban planning. This paper focuses on urban sprawl analysis in the Atakum, Ilkadim and Canik districts of Samsun, Turkey. In this study, urban sprawl was examined over a period of 24 years using Shannon's entropy and fractal analysis based on remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS). The built-up areas in 1989, 2000 and 2013 were extracted from Landsat TM/ETM+/OLI images using the maximum likelihood classification method, and urban form changes in the 1989–2013 period were investigated. The Shannon's entropy method was used to determine the degree of urban sprawl, and a fractal analysis method based on box counting was used to characterize the urban sprawl. The results show that Atakum, Ilkadim and Canik experienced important changes and have considerable sprawl and complex characteristics now. The study also revealed that there is no monotonic relationship between Shannon's entropy and fractal dimension.
Solar Cycle Variability Induced by Tilt Angle Scatter in a Babcock–Leighton Solar Dynamo Model
Authors: Karak Bidya Binay , Miesch Mark
Published: September 2017

We present results from a three-dimensional Babcock–Leighton (BL) dynamo model that is sustained by the emergence and dispersal of bipolar magnetic regions (BMRs). On average, each BMR has a systematic tilt given by Joy’s law. Randomness and nonlinearity in the BMR emergence of our model produce variable magnetic cycles. However, when we allow for a random scatter in the tilt angle to mimic the observed departures from Joy’s law, we find more variability in the magnetic cycles. We find that the observed standard deviation in Joy’s law of

produces a variability comparable to the observed solar cycle variability of ∼32%, as quantified by the sunspot number maxima between 1755 and 2008. We also find that tilt angle scatter can promote grand minima and grand maxima. The time spent in grand minima for

is somewhat less than that inferred for the Sun from cosmogenic isotopes (about 9% compared to 17%). However, when we double the tilt scatter to

, the simulation statistics are comparable to the Sun (∼18% of the time in grand minima and ∼10% in grand maxima). Though the BL mechanism is the only source of poloidal field, we find that our simulations always maintain magnetic cycles even at large fluctuations in the tilt angle. We also demonstrate that tilt quenching is a viable and efficient mechanism for dynamo saturation; a suppression of the tilt by only 1°–2° is sufficient to limit the dynamo growth. Thus, any potential observational signatures of tilt quenching in the Sun may be subtle.
Electron Pre-acceleration at Nonrelativistic High-Mach-number Perpendicular Shocks
Authors: Bohdan Artem , Niemiec Jacek , Kobzar Oleh , Pohl Martin
Published: September 2017

We perform particle-in-cell simulations of perpendicular nonrelativistic collisionless shocks to study electron heating and pre-acceleration for parameters that permit the extrapolation to the conditions at young supernova remnants. Our high-resolution large-scale numerical experiments sample a representative portion of the shock surface and demonstrate that the efficiency of electron injection is strongly modulated with the phase of the shock reformation. For plasmas with low and moderate temperature (plasma beta

and

), we explore the nonlinear shock structure and electron pre-acceleration for various orientations of the large-scale magnetic field with respect to the simulation plane, while keeping it at 90° to the shock normal. Ion reflection off of the shock leads to the formation of magnetic filaments in the shock ramp, resulting from Weibel-type instabilities, and electrostatic Buneman modes in the shock foot. In all of the cases under study, the latter provides first-stage electron energization through the shock-surfing acceleration mechanism. The subsequent energization strongly depends on the field orientation and proceeds through adiabatic or second-order Fermi acceleration processes for configurations with the out-of-plane and in-plane field components, respectively. For strictly out-of-plane field, the fraction of suprathermal electrons is much higher than for other configurations, because only in this case are the Buneman modes fully captured by the 2D simulation grid. Shocks in plasma with moderate

provide more efficient pre-acceleration. The relevance of our results to the physics of fully 3D systems is discussed.
The Orbit of the Gamma-Ray Binary 1FGL J1018.6−5856
Authors: Monageng I. M. , McBride V. A. , Townsend L. J. , Kniazev A. Y. , Mohamed S. , Böttcher M.
Published: September 2017

Gamma-ray binaries are a small subclass of the high mass X-ray binary population that exhibit emission across the whole electromagnetic spectrum. We present the radial velocities of 1FGL J1018.6−5856 based on the observations obtained with the Southern African Large Telescope. We combine our measurements with those published in the literature to get a broad phase coverage. The mass function obtained supports a neutron star compact object, although a black hole mass is possible for the very low inclination angles. The improved phase coverage allows constraints to be placed on the orbital eccentricity (e = 0.31 ± 0.16), which agrees with the estimates from the high-energy data.
Durability of Antiretroviral Therapy Regimens and Determinants for Change in HIV-1-Infected Patients in the TREAT Asia HIV Observational Database (TAHOD-LITE)
Authors: Martinez-Vega Rosario , De La Mata Nicole L , Kumarasamy Nagalingeswaran , Ly Penh Sun , Van Nguyen Kinh , Merati Tuti P , Pham Thi Thanh , Lee Man Po , Choi Jun Yong , Ross Jeremy L , Ng Oon Tek
Published: September 2017

Background

The durability of first-line regimen is important to achieve long-term treatment success for the management of HIV infection. Our analysis describes the duration of sequential ART regimens and identifies the determinants leading to treatment change in HIV-positive patients initiating in Asia.

Methods

All HIV-positive adult patients initiating first-line ART in 2003–2013, from eight clinical sites among seven countries in Asia. Patient follow-up was to May 2014. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to estimate the time to second-line ART and third-line ART regimen. Factors associated with treatment durability were assessed using Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

A total of 16,962 patients initiated first-line ART. Of these, 4,336 patients initiated second-line ART over 38,798 person-years (pys), a crude rate of 11.2 (95% CI 10.8, 11.5) per 100 pys. The probability of being on first-line ART increased from 83.7% (95% CI 82.1, 85.1%) in 2003–2005 to 87.9% (95% CI 87.1, 88.6%) in 2010–2013. Third-line ART was initiated by 1,135 patients over 8,078 pys, a crude rate of 14.0 (95% CI 13.3, 14.9) per 100 pys. The probability of continuing second-line ART significantly increased from 64.9% (95% CI 58.5, 70.6%) in 2003–2005 to 86.2% (95% CI 84.7, 87.6%) in 2010–2013.

Conclusions

Rates of discontinuation of first- and second-line regimens have decreased over the last decade in Asia. Subsequent regimens were of shorter duration compared to the first-line regimen initiated in the same year period. Lower CD4+ T-cell count and the use of suboptimal regimens were important factors associated with higher risk of treatment switch.
Conjoint Tendon Release in Direct Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty: No Impact on Patient Outcomes
Authors: Yao Reina , Howard James L. , Lanting Brent A.
Published: September 2017

The direct anterior (DA) approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has become increasingly popular. However, femoral access can be more technically challenging in difficult cases as compared with other approaches. Conjoint tendon release can improve proximal femoral exposure, but its effect on patient function and pain has not been studied. This study evaluated the effect of conjoint tendon release on length of stay (LOS), inpatient pain medication requirements, and functional outcomes of patients undergoing DA THA. The authors retrospectively reviewed charts of all primary DA THAs conducted by a single surgeon between August 2012 and July 2015. Patient demographics, bilateral THA cases, intraoperative conjoint tendon or other soft tissue releases, intraoperative complications, LOS, and inpatient pain medication data were evaluated. One-year functional outcome scores, including the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index and the Harris Hip Scores, were also reviewed. The authors identified 312 primary DA THAs, with 29 concurrent bilateral THAs. The conjoint tendon was released in 180 cases, whereas a tensor fascia lata (TFL) was released for 29 cases. Mean LOS was 1.3±1.1 days, with patient age (
P
=.002), bilateral THA (
P
<.001), TFL release (
P
=.005), and intraoperative complications (
P
=.002) predictive of LOS. Mean daily morphine equivalent dose narcotic use was 43.2±48.2 mg, with age being a negative predictor of narcotic use (
P
=.019). Conjoint tendon release was not predictive of LOS, inpatient pain medication requirements, or outcome scores. Given that conjoint release improves femoral exposure but does not affect LOS or 1-year patient-reported outcomes, intraoperative thresholds for conjoint release should be low. [
Orthopedics
. 2017; 40(6):e971–e974.]
Glomus Tumor of the Sciatic Nerve: An Extraspinal Cause of Sciatica
Authors: Nwankwo Basilia Onyinyechukwu , Henshaw Robert M. , Kumar Dhruv
Published: September 2017

Glomus tumors are small, benign tumors that arise from glomus bodies, structures found normally within the dermis that assist in temperature regulation via their vasoconstrictive response to sympathetic stimuli. Glomus tumors are found typically in the hand and are classically a cause of focal pain and temperature sensitivity. They often present as a small blue lesion seen under the nail bed of a finger or a toe and cause point tenderness. Glomus tumors of peripheral nerves are exceedingly rare and can lead to disability akin to compressive neuropathy when present. This case report explores the unusual presentation of a rare and large glomus tumor of the sciatic nerve. The patient presented with symptoms such as those mentioned above and was assumed to have sciatica emanating from spinal and neuroforaminal stenosis. Although she repeatedly and appropriately sought medical attention for her condition, she was improperly diagnosed and ultimately experienced a significant deterioration of her function, eventually undergoing an unnecessary surgical procedure. On referral to the authors' institution, the patient was evaluated and found to have a glomus tumor involving the sciatic nerve. This is the largest glomus tumor of a peripheral nerve that has been reported to date. Although the patient's presentation was insidious and her diagnosis was uncommon, this underscores the importance of developing a differential diagnosis based primarily on a thorough physical examination and, only then, correlating imaging to clinical findings. Additionally, given the atypical presentation and intractable course of this patient's condition, the examiner must consider neoplastic entities and space-occupying lesions as part of the differential diagnosis. [
Orthopedics.
2018; 41(1):e151–e153.]
Nursing students’ perceptions of soft skills training in Ghana
Authors: Laari Luke , Dube Barbara M.
Published: September 2017

Background: The quality of nursing care rendered today is markedly reducing and the amount of time spent with patients listening to and explaining issues concerning their conditions is gradually diminishing. The therapeutic touch and the listening ear of the nurse are no longer accessible to the patient. Understanding what non-technical skills are and their relevance for healthcare practitioners has become a new area of consideration. Although recent literature has highlighted the necessity of introducing soft skills training and assessment within medical education, nursing education is yet to fully embrace this skills training.Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore nursing students’ understanding of the concept of soft skills and to acquire their perception on the need for soft skills training to promote quality nursing care.Methods: A quantitative research design with descriptive and explorative strategies was used. One hundred and ten nursing students were sampled after permission to conduct the study was requested and obtained from the University of KwaZulu-Natal Ethics Committee.Results: The results indicated that a majority (68.8%) of respondents understood the concept of soft skills and agreed with the definition of ‘soft skills’. They furthermore agreed that soft skills should be part of the training that student nurses receive during their professional training.Conclusion: The study revealed that there is a need for nursing students to be educated in soft skills and that this will enhance their job performances in the clinical environment and improve the way in which they communicate with their clients.
The potential of multicultural congregations in supporting social reconciliation
Authors: Naidoo Marilyn
Published: September 2017

Race, ethnicity and national identity are important discussions that are unfinished ecclesial business for churches in South Africa. Churches remain mono-cultural to a large extent; a significant challenge is the fact that churches still largely reflect the social divisions of a society. Although not common in South Africa, there are, at the same time, congregations that are successful at reaching across racial and cultural divides to attract new members and build social capital. This article discusses the reconciliation potential of multicultural churches in that they are able to accommodate multiple racial groups, in a society where religious life remains overwhelmingly segregated. Racial integration is a sensitive issue that has divisive potential and churches and religions in general tend to avoid the issue. Religious communities played a critical role in the transition to democracy; what is needed now is for churches to deepen this reconciliation potential.
Examining the construct validity of the positive coping behavioural inventory
Authors: Coetzee Melinde , Marx Anta A. , Potgieter Ingrid L.
Published: September 2017

Orientation: Positive coping strengths are important personal resources in helping employees deal constructively with the complex interaction between the individual and the environment. Research purpose: The present study examined the usefulness and validity of the factor structure of the positive coping behavioural inventory (PCBI) with the view to further refine the scale and increase its usefulness and application value in the South African workplace.Motivation for the study: Valid and reliable multidimensional measures of positive psychological constructs are considered important in understanding the array of personal resources that help employees cope constructively with work–life stressors in today’s fastpaced and more turbulent work environment.Research design, approach and method: A cross-sectional survey design was utilised to collect primary data from a sample of (N = 525) male and female employees from white and black ethnicity origin in the services industry. The participants’ self-evaluations of their positive coping behaviour were measured by means of the PCBI. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to examine the construct validity of the PCBI.Main findings: The convergent validity and internal consistency reliability of the PCBI as a measure of three higher-order dimensions of positive coping behaviour (inventive, engaging and intentional coping behaviours) were demonstrated in this study.Practical and managerial implications: Researchers may confidently use the three-factor solution of the PCBI to measure employees’ self-evaluations of their capacity to demonstrate positive coping behaviour in the workplace.Contribution and value-add: This study contributed to the emerging body of knowledge on the assessment of positive psychology constructs that contribute to employees’ well-being and flourishing in the South African workplace. The results provide preliminary evidence of the usefulness of the PCBI as a valid and reliable multidimensional measure that integrates a wide array of positive psychology attributes in a single measure.
Lupus Enteritis: An Uncommon Manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus as an Initial Presentation
Authors: Bodh Vishal , Kalwar Ritesh , Sharma Rajesh , Sharma Brij , Mahajan Sanjay , Raina Rajiv , Jarial Ajay
Published: September 2017

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder generally affects young to middle-aged women, commonly presenting as a triad of fever, rash, and joint pain but can affect multiple organs and can present in a complex fashion, varying based on the degree and severity of organ involvement. The differential for abdominal pain and diarrhea in SLE is vast and can include VIPomas, serositis, pancreatitis, intestinal vasculitis, and protein – losing enteropathy, gluten – enteropathy, intestinal pseudo-obstruction, and infection. The pathology of lupus enterits thought to be immune-complex deposition and complement activation, with subsequent mucosal edema. We present a case of a woman with no history of SLE, but with a prolonged course of abdominal pain, diarrhoea and vomiting and eventual diagnoses of lupus enteritis.
Cystic Duplication Cyst of Ascending Colon in an Adult
Authors: Rana Surinder S. , Sharma Vishal , Gupta Rajesh
Published: September 2017

Gastrointestinal duplication cysts are rare congenital abnormalities that are usually seen in childhood. Colonic duplication cyst is very rare in adults and is usually asymptomatic. We report a 42‑year‑old female with a duplication cyst in the proximal ascending colon who presented with recurrent episodes of colicky abdominal pain. The cyst could be well visualized on colonoscopy and the patient underwent successful right hemicolectomy with ileotransverse anastomosis.
Comunicación digital y la realidad social en la comunicación entre los usuarios de las redes sociales rusoparlantes: representación del contenido histórico
Authors: Pilgun María , Dzyaloshinsky Iosif M
Published: September 2017

El artículo describe el estudio de la realidad social actual de Rusia. Se estudia su reflejo en el contenido histórico de la comunicación de los usuarios de las redes sociales que permite detectar la interacción de la comunicación online y offline. Objectivos. El análisis de los acontecimientos históricos en el contenido de las redes sociales, concretamente la Revolución de octubre 1917. Metodología. Dada la complejidad de la investigación se optó por un enfoque interdisciplinar. Para la obtención del material empírico relevante fueron llevados a cabo los siguientes procedimientos: una encuesta masiva y la entrevista focogrupal; el análisis del contenido dedicado a la Revolución de octubre extraído de las redes sociales (Facebook, VKontakt, Livejournal); el análisis de redacciones dedicadas a dicho tema. El procesamiento de los datos obtenidos se efectuó mediante el programa Tableau y Automap. Resultados. El contenido histórico en las redes sociales rusoparlantes reproduce una tensión social, igual que los acontecimientos de hace 100 años. Discusión y Conclusiones. El conflicto que dividió la sociedad rusa en dos partidos enemigos en el año 1917 sigue dividiendo la sociedad también hoy en día. El campo de batalla se trasladó al ciberespacio, donde la evaluación de los acontecimientos históricos se convierte en una forma más de marcaje “amigo-enemigo” que lleva a una comunicación conflictiva y produce un aumento de la tensión social.
Assessment of Indian Public Health Standards in the Primary Health Centers in a District of Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Masood Arshiya , Singh Anil K , Martolia DS , Midha Tanu
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Primary health center (PHC) is a first port of call to a qualified doctor of the public sector in rural areas. Standards are the main driver for continuous improvement in quality. The performance of PHCs can be assessed against the Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) recommended for PHCs in early 2007. The overall objective of IPHS for PHCs is to provide health care, i.e., quality oriented and sensitive to the needs of the community. These standards would also help monitor and improve the functioning of the PHCs.

Aims and objectives

This study was carried out to assess (1) the infrastructure, equipments, instruments, staffing, and other facilities; (2) the services being provided at PHCs; (3) to find out the reasons for nonutilization of health services and suggest remedial measures for the same.

Material and methods

This was a cross-sectional study at two PHCs, namely Thatiya and Umerda of Tirwa block of Kannauj District selected randomly for assessment. Health care providers, mainly medical officers, were interviewed using pretested, precoded pro forma. Descriptive analysis was used as per study requirements.

Results

It has been found that only outpatient department services were being provided with many missing components, such as one of the most important ones like maternal and child health and family planning. Physical infrastructure and facilities were inadequate at both the PHCs. Both of them were grossly underequipped and understaffed. Medical officers face their own problems; even basic amenities of life like water, electricity, canteen, etc., are lacking there.

Conclusion

Both the PHCs were not performing up to the expectations and standards of the Indian Public Health.

How to cite this article

Masood A, Singh AK, Martolia DS, Midha T. Assessment of Indian Public Health Standards in the Primary Health Centers in a District of Uttar Pradesh, India. Int J Adv Integ Med Sci 2017;2(2):53-60.
Psychiatric Morbidity and Quality of Life in Patients suffering from Psoriasis in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Shrivastava RK , Jaiswal Arpit , Yaduvanshi Rakesh , Sharma CS , Ali Ramjan , Rathoure PK
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease, which may be persistent, disfiguring, and stigmatizing. The disease is frequent, with prevalence estimates ranging from 0.3 to 2.5%. It is characterized by thick, red, scaly lesion that may appear on any part of the body. Psoriasis is associated with significant psychological and psychiatric morbidity, experience of stigmatization, and decreased health-related quality of life (QOL).

Aims and Objectives

The aims of this study were to estimate psychiatric morbidity and QOL in patients with psoriasis and to study the specified demographic, psychological, social, and illness-related correlates of psychiatric morbidity and QOL.

Materials and methods

The study group consisted of 100 consecutive patients suffering from psoriasis and healthy controls. The assessment was done using General Health Questionnaire 12 items (GHQ-12), Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF scale (WHOQOL-BREF). Patients were also subjected to clinical psychiatric examination. Only those subjects who scored ≥3 on GHQ-12 scale were administered HADS and WHOQOL-BREF.

Results

This study revealed statistically significant association between number of relapses and depression score and between severity of skin lesions (PASI score) and depressive score.

Conclusion

Psoriasis markedly worsens the global well-being of patients and their cohabitants, who experienced an impairment of their QOL and higher levels of anxiety and depression.

How to cite this article

Yaduvanshi R, Jaiswal A, Sharma CS, Kumar S, Ali R, Shrivastava RK, Rathoure PK. Psychiatric Morbidity and Quality of Life in Patients suffering from Psoriasis in a Tertiary Care Hospital. Int J Adv Integ Med Sci 2017;2(2):85-90.
Sterilization and Infection Control Measures in Dental Operatory
Authors: Verma Santosh K
Published: September 2017

Increase in the incidence of serious transmissible diseases over the last few decades has enhanced major concern and impacted the treatment mode of all health care practitioners. Nowadays, more emphasis is made to assure the patients that they are well protected from risks of infectious disease. Infection control is the most important phase of any dental therapy that has helped to allay concerns of the health care personnel and in providing a safe environment for both patient and personnel. This study reviews different sterilization and infection control protocols in a dental operatory.

How to cite this article

Mohan S, Prajapati VK, Verma SK. Sterilization and Infection Control Measures in Dental Operatory. Int J Adv Integ Med Sci 2017;2(2):97-100.
Comparison of large-scale dynamical variability in the extratropical stratosphere among the JRA-55 family data sets: impacts of assimilation of observational data in JRA-55 reanalysis data
Authors: Taguchi Masakazu
Published: September 2017

Abstract. This study compares large-scale dynamical variability in the extratropical stratosphere, such as major stratospheric sudden warmings (MSSWs), among the Japanese 55-year Reanalysis (JRA-55) family data sets. The JRA-55 family consists of three products: a standard product (STDD) of the JRA-55 reanalysis data and two sub-products of JRA-55C (CONV) and JRA-55AMIP (AMIP). CONV assimilates only conventional surface and upper-air observations without assimilation of satellite observations, whereas AMIP runs the same numerical weather prediction model without assimilation of observational data. A comparison of the occurrence of MSSWs in Northern Hemisphere (NH) winter shows that, compared to STDD, CONV delays several MSSWs by 1 to 4 days and also misses a few MSSWs. CONV also misses the Southern Hemisphere (SH) MSSW in September 2002. AMIP shows significantly fewer MSSWs in Northern Hemisphere winter and especially lacks MSSWs of the high aspect ratio of the polar vortex in which the vortex is highly stretched or split. A further examination of daily geopotential height differences between STDD and CONV reveals occasional peaks in both hemispheres that are separated from MSSWs. The delayed and missed MSSW cases have smaller height differences in magnitude than such peaks. The height differences for those MSSWs include large contributions from the zonal component, which reflects underestimations in the weakening of the zonal mean polar night jet in CONV. We also explore strong planetary wave forcings and associated polar vortex weakenings for STDD and AMIP. We find a lower frequency of strong wave forcings and weaker vortex responses to such wave forcings in AMIP, consistent with the lower MSSW frequency.