bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Nitrogen Transfer and Transformation in Traditional Farming and Rice-Duck Farming System by N15 Tracer Method
Authors: Ebissa Tchister Morrel , Yang Bo , Guan Yuanqing , Tan Bingchang , Chen Peizhen , Wang Lili , Magwanga Richard Odongo , Zheng Xiangqun
Published: September 2018

A field experiment was conducted in Ninghe, Tianjin, China, using 15N isotope method to evaluate the application of organic fertilizer on N distribution patterns of labelled and unlabeled N fertilizer, ammonium sulfate -15N uptake by rice, N use efficiency (NUE), and the fate of (15NH4)2SO4 applied. The experiment included eight treatments: CK-N (control + no-duck), CK-D (control + ducks), CF-N (chemical fertilizer + no-ducks), CF-D (chemical fertilizer + ducks), CM-N (chemical fertilizer + organic fertilizer + no-ducks), CM-D (chemical fertilizer + organic fertilizer + ducks), CD-N (chemical fertilizer 30% off + organic fertilizer + no-ducks), and CD-D (chemical fertilizer 30% off + organic fertilizer + ducks). The results showed that the application of organic fertilizer whether CM or CD significantly increased N and P concentrations over control (CK) and chemical fertilizer (CF). Moreover, no-significant differences were found in 15N fresh grain and husk concentration. Both organs ranged of 14.2-14.4 g kg-1 and 6.2-6.3 g kg-1, respectively. N derived from the fertilizer and soil significantly affected fresh grain compared to fresh husk. However, N uptake and N use efficiency did not show any differences. We concluded that organic fertilizer has a significant influence on rice growth and promote crop productivity.
A First Encounter of Residents of a Long-Term Care Facility with Virtual Reality Glasses
Authors: Mühlegger Victoria
Published: September 2018

In this study, 6 residents of a long-term care facility were asked to try on Virtual Reality glasses and report their first experiences with Virtual Reality. The results show that Virtual Reality is of great interest to elderly residents of in-patient long-term care facilities. The wearing period was longer than expected and no symptoms of cyber sickness occurred. For the residents it was exciting to explore the virtual environments. Austrian destinations, nature scenes in the mountains and forests but also trips to the zoo, the museum, in churches or even densely populated areas like shopping streets or train stations would be places for the residents, they would like to explore virtually. Far-off destinations such as Rio de Janeiro or the Caribbean are more of an exception. Biographically relevant places such as the parental home or the location of their wedding were not named. Concerning the usability, an adjustment of the VR glasses is necessary for a longer-term use in any case.
Public Sector Organizations’ Performance Evaluation via Customer Satisfaction Approach: Twin-Client Scenario with Competing Interests – The Case of Pakistan’s FTO
Authors: Ahmed Muhammad Ashfaq , Khanum Shazia
Published: September 2018

The paper attempts to dissect the friction between two very important institutions within the extractive machinery of Pakistan i.e. FTO, and FBR. The precise hypothesis that the paper looks to test is: The Federal Tax Ombudsman transgresses its lawful jurisdiction to redress the taxpayers’ complaints. In order to test the hypothesis two elaborate survey questionnaires were devised to separately target both of the FTO’s clients. The paper also tries to add to the process of knowledge development and provide empirical basis to the general perceptions, and help illuminate meaningful discussion in the policy formulation circles of Pakistan in the years to come. The study seminally looks to apply Customer Satisfaction Approach (CSA) in the twin-client scenario with competing interests which FTO’s business model inherently offers. The “twin-client scenario with competing interests” actually refers to the heart and soul of the research project by suggesting that, in fact, FTO’s clients are two: (i) the taxpayer and (ii) the tax-collector. I take the first client (taxpayer) as the utility-maximizing individual, and the second client as the revenue-maximizing leviathan. The underlying assumption, when articulated in technical terms, is that it is a zero-sum scenario – wherein the aggregate size of the pie remains the same and one loses or wins only at the cost of the other. This is where, the literature on organizational theory surveyed, reveals that the paper has an ample space to contribute to the existing knowledge pool on organizational theory and development. On the basis of the data collected, an attempt is made to see as to how the twin-client scenario in competing interests resolves itself – or even does it? The summation made on the basis of the data, is that CSA cannot per se be applied to organizations operating in a twin-client scenario with competing interests – including courts at all levels and of all types.
Removal of Lead Ions from Aqueous Solutions by a Novel Ficus carica L.-Zeolite-Alginate Biocomposite
Authors: KAYGUSUZ Meruyert , GÖK Cem
Published: September 2018

In this study, fig leaves, zeolite and alginate were used to prepare a biocomposite for the adsorption of Pb(II) ions. Effects of pH, temperature, initial lead concentration and contact time on the adsorption process have been investigated. The amount of adsorbed lead per gram of sorbent was found to be approximately 150.3 mg/g. The prepared biocomposite possesses promising adsorption potential. Maximum uptake of Pb(II) ions (85%) has been achieved at pH 6, with 25 mg/L of initial concentration and at a temperature of 288.15 K. The data correlated well with Freundlich and D-R models. The adsorption was physical in nature.
I: Geometric Interpretation of the Minkowski Metric
Authors: Merz Thomas
Published: September 2018

A geometric interpretation of the Minkowski metric and thus of phenomena in special relativity is provided. It is shown that a change of basis in Minkowski space is the equivalent of a change of basis in Euclidean space if one basis element is replaced by its dual element. The methodology of the proof includes infinitesimal changes of basis using the Lie-algebras of the involved groups. As a consequence, a direct mapping between Euclidean and Minkowski space is defined.
Genistein Loaded Nanofibers Protect Spinal Cord Tissue Following Experimental Injury in Rats
Authors: Ismail Mohamed , Ibrahim Sara , Elamir Azza , M. Elrafei Amira , Allam Nageh , Abdellatif Ahmed
Published: September 2018

Implantable drug-delivery systems provide new means for achieving therapeutic drug concentration over a prolonged time to achieve better tissue protection and enhanced recovery. The hypothesis of the current study was to test the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of genistein and nanofibers on the spinal cord tissue following experimental spinal cord injury (SCI). Rats were treated post SCI with genistein loaded on chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol (CS/PVA) nanofibers as an implantable drug-delivery system. SCI caused marked oxidative damage and inflammation as evident by the reduction in the super oxide dismutase (SOD) activity and the level of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in injured spinal cord tissue, as well as, the significant increase in the levels of nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Treatment of rats post SCI with genistein and CS/PVA nanofibers improved most of the above mentioned biochemical parameters and shifted them toward the control group values. Genistein induced an increase in the activity of SOD and the level of IL-10, while causing a decrease in the levels of NO, MDA and TNF-α in injured spinal cord tissue. Genistein and CS/PVA nanofibers provide a novel combination for treating inflammatory nervous tissue conditions, especially when combined as an implantable drug-delivery system.
Comparative Analysis of Red Blood Cells Distribution Width and c-Reactive Protein Levels Depending on the Presence of Probable Familial Heterozygous Hypercholesterolemia: Findings from Laboratory Registry Data
Authors: Gaisenok Oleg V. , Razlivaeva Nina I.
Published: September 2018

The aim of this study was to identify patients with probable family heterozygous hypercholesterolemia (PFH) and carry out a comparative analysis of RDW and CRP levels depending on the presence of PFH. All patients who underwent complete blood count, total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) tests in our hospital from January to December 2016 were included in the study. CRP data for each patient were added to the database, if available. 8056 patient records were included in the final analysis. Simon Broome Register criteria (TC>7.5mmol/l or/and LDL>4.9mmol/l) were used as diagnostic criteria for PFH in this study. The detectability of PFH significantly exceeded the expected average population statistical indices. Detectability of PFH by TC criterion was 5.9% for the whole study group and 5.3% for circulatory system diseases (CSD) patients; and even higher by LDL criterion for the whole study group - 8.0%, for CSD patients - 7.5%. Statistically significant differences in RDW level were obtained only for LDL criterion in CSD patients (but not for the whole study group). Among them, RDW level was lower in PFH patients: 12.9+0.8 (n = 173) vs 13.2+0.8 (n=2119), p=0.007. There were no differences in the CRP level in all subgroups.
Exploring an AM-Enabled Combination-of-Functions Approach for Modular Product Design
Authors: Chadha Charul , Crowe Kathryn , Carmen Christina , Patterson Albert
Published: September 2018

This work explores an additive-manufacturing-enabled combination-of-function approach for design of modular products. AM technologies allow the design and manufacturing of nearly free-form geometry, which can be used to create more complex, multi-function or multi-feature parts. The approach presented here replaces sub-assemblies within a modular product or system with more complex single parts that are designed and manufactured using AM technologies. This approach can increase the reliability of systems and products by reducing the number of interfaces, as well as allowing the optimization of the more complex parts during the design. The smaller part count and the ability of users to replace or upgrade the system or product parts on-demand should reduce user risk, life-cycle costs, and prevent obsolescence for the user of many systems. This study presents a detailed review on the current state-of-the-art in modular product design in order to demonstrate the place, need and usefulness of this AM-enabled method for systems and products that could benefit from it. A detailed case study is developed and presented to demonstrate the concepts.
New Biocompatible Polyurethanes: Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Gregorí Valdes Barbara S. , Gomes Clara S. B. , Gomes Pedro T. , Ascenso José R. , Diogo Hermínio P. , Gonçalves Lídia M. , Galhano dos Santos Rui , Ribeiro Helena M. , Bordado João C.
Published: September 2018

The synthesis of four samples of new polyurethanes was evaluated by changing the ratio of the diol monomers used, poly(propylene glycol) (PPG) and D-isosorbide, in the presence of aliphatic isocyanates such as the isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) and 4,4′-methylenebis(cyclohexyl isocyanate) (HMDI). The thermal properties of the four polymers obtained were determined by DSC, exhibiting Tg values in the range 55-70 ºC, and their molecular structure characterized by FTIR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopies. The diffusion coefficients of these polymers in solution were measured by the Pulse Gradient Spin Echo (PGSE) NMR method, enabling the calculation of the corresponding hydrodynamic radii in diluted solution (1.62–2.65 nm). The molecular weights were determined by GPC/SEC and compared with the values determined by quantitative 13C NMR analysis. Finally, the biocompatibility of the polyurethanes was assessed using the HaCaT keratinocyte cell line by the MTT reduction assay method showing values superior to 70% cell viability.
Photoactive ZnO Materials for Solar Light Induced CuxO-ZnO Catalyst Preparation
Authors: Brzezińska Magdalena , García-Muñoz Patricia , Ruppert Agnieszka , Keller Nicolas
Published: September 2018

In this work, the solar light-induced redox photoactivity of the ZnO semiconductor material was used to prepare at room temperature CuxO-ZnO composite catalysts with a control of the chemical state of the copper oxide phase. The preparation of Cu2(I)O-ZnO and Cu(II)O-ZnO composite catalysts was achieved by using Cu(acac)2 in THF-water and Cu(NO3)2 in water as metallic precursor, respectively. Prior to the implementation of the photo-assisted synthesis method, the most efficient photoactive ZnO material was selected among different ZnO materials prepared by the low temperature polyol method and through the precipitation method with carbonates and carbamates as precipitation agent, by taking the photocatalytic degradation of the 4-chlorophenol compound in water under simulated solar light as model reaction. The ZnO support materials were characterized by XRD, BET, TGA, SEM and TEM, and the synthesis method was strongly influencing their photoactivity in terms of 4-chlorophenol degradation and of total organic carbon removal. The most photoactive ZnO material was prepared by precipitation with carbonates and calcined at 300°C, and was taking advantage of a high specific surface area and a small mean crystallite size for achieving a complete 4-chlorophenol mineralization within 70 min of reaction, with a minimum Zn2+ released to the solution due to surface photocorrosion. Beside thermal catalysis applications, this work opened a new route for the facile synthesis of Cu2O-ZnO heterojunction photocatalysts, that could take advantage under solar light of the heterojunction built between the p-type semi-conductor Cu2O with direct visible light band gap and the ZnO semiconductor phase.
Delayed Reconstruction Following Incarceration of the Medial Epicondyle in the Elbow Joint
Authors: Lotz Benedict , Akilapa Oluwasegun , Karthik Karuppaiah
Published: September 2018

Case:

Neglected medial epicondylar fractures with intra-articular incarceration are uncommon. At 6 weeks after an elbow dislocation, an 11-year-old child was referred to our unit with painless, restricted range of motion. Clinical assessment and radiographic imaging revealed an incarcerated medial epicondylar fragment in the ulnohumeral joint. We performed open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and transposed the ulnar nerve. The clinical and radiographic outcomes at the final follow-up were excellent.

Conclusion:

The management of neglected pediatric medial epicondylar fractures with intra-articular incarceration is challenging. Identifying the fractured fragment is essential. Although the outcome following excision is variable, children who have undergone ORIF with ulnar nerve transposition have regained full function, despite delayed reconstruction.
Use of Halo-Gravity Traction and a Magnetically Controlled Growing Rod for Untreated Severe Kyphoscoliosis in an Adolescent
Authors: Fedorak Graham T. , Smith John T. , Heflin John A.
Published: September 2018

Case:

We utilized a novel staged approach for an adolescent with severe kyphoscoliosis; it involved 8 weeks of initial halo-gravity traction as well as implantation and expansion (every 2 weeks) of a magnetically controlled growing rod over 6 months, followed by spinal fusion. The patient was a 13-year-old girl with an untreated idiopathic deformity (thoracic scoliosis with a curve of 145° and kyphosis with a curve of 120°). No osteotomies other than inferior facetectomies were required at the final fusion, and the final scoliosis curve was 57°, a correction of 60.7%.

Conclusion:

The staged approach resulted in a straightforward, safe, gradual correction of severe kyphoscoliosis. We consider this an option for patients with scoliosis with a curve of ≥130° on initial presentation.
Valgus Osteotomy with Plate-and-Nail Fixation for the Treatment of Proximal Femoral Deformities Due to Fibrous Dysplasia
Authors: Butler Bennet A. , Lawton Cort D. , Harold Ryan E. , Peabody Terrance D. , Stover Michael D.
Published: September 2018

Case:

We describe 2 cases of proximal femoral deformity due to fibrous dysplasia that were corrected with osteotomies and a novel combined construct with a blade plate and a retrograde intramedullary nail.

Conclusion:

A single-stage procedure using a combined construct with a blade plate and a retrograde intramedullary nail is a viable option for correcting and subsequently preventing proximal femoral deformities due to fibrous dysplasia.
Surgical Intervention for Cauda Equina Syndrome in the Second and Third Trimesters of Pregnancy
Authors: Look Nicole , Kleck Christopher J. , Burger Evalina L.
Published: September 2018

Case:

Low back pain affects >50% of pregnant women. However, cauda equina syndrome (CES) during pregnancy is rare. Because a delay in treatment increases the risk of irreversible neurologic damage, acute onset is regarded as a surgical emergency. We describe 3 cases of CES in pregnant women at 24, 27, and 30 weeks’ gestation, respectively.

Conclusion:

All 3 of the patients underwent surgical decompression in the prone position under general anesthesia with continuous external monitoring of the fetal heart rate. Intraoperative findings were noteworthy for epidural venous plexus engorgement in 2 of the patients. There were no complications for the patients or the fetuses, and all 3 of the patients had postoperative resolution of the neurologic symptoms.
Arthroscopic All-Inside Anterior Talofibular Ligament Repair Through a Three-Portal and No-Ankle-Distraction Technique
Authors: Vega Jordi , Guelfi Matteo , Malagelada Francesc , Peña Fernando , Dalmau-Pastor Miki
Published: September 2018

Background:

Ankle instability is a common consequence of ankle sprains. Injury of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) is the most common cause of ankle instability
1
. Arthroscopic treatment of ankle instability is an emerging field attracting increased interest among surgeons
2–10
. The arthroscopic all-inside ATFL repair allows the surgeon to explore the ankle joint, treat concomitant pathology when encountered, and reattach the injured ATFL to its fibular anatomical location. The aim of this article is to describe the arthroscopic all-inside ATFL repair through a 3-portal no-ankle-distraction technique.

Description:

After patient positioning, anteromedial and anterolateral portals are created. An accessory anterolateral portal is created just anterior to the fibula and about 1 cm proximal to the tip of the lateral malleolus. The arthroscope is introduced through the anteromedial portal, and the instruments are introduced through the anterolateral portal. Recognition of the ligament and evaluation of the ligament tear with a probe are required. The footprint for the fibular attachment of the ATFL is debrided. The ligament is penetrated with a suture passer. A nitinol loop is pushed and then is pulled out through the accessory portal. The nitinol wire is replaced by a double high-resistance suture. The limbs of the suture located in the accessory portal are passed through the anterolateral portal. Next, one or both limbs of the suture are passed through the loop suture. Pulling of the suture limbs introduces the loop into the joint and the ligament is grasped by the suture. The tunnel for the anchor is drilled. The knotless anchor is loaded with the suture, and the anchor and suture are introduced with the ankle in dorsiflexion and valgus. Postoperatively, the ankle is immobilized with a removable walking boot for 4 weeks. Once use of the walking boot is discontinued, physical therapy is started.

Alternatives:

Nonoperative treatment with physiotherapy or sports restriction can be an alternative for patients with surgical contraindications or as a first step of treatment. Open techniques (repair or reconstruction) or other arthroscopic-assisted techniques (arthroscopic introduction of anchors and percutaneous passage of sutures, or arthroscopic-assisted reconstruction) are possible surgical alternatives to the described technique to treat ankle instability.

Rationale:

The described technique has the advantage of being done with a minimally invasive approach and providing an anatomical repair of the ligament. Concomitant intra-articular pathology can be addressed during the procedure through the same arthroscopic approaches. Early rehabilitation and the lack of intra-articular knots are additional benefits of the technique.
Avaliação clínica e econômica do uso de dexmedetomidina em um hospital universitário
Authors: Lima Íkaro Matheus , Nogueira Iara Antônia
Published: September 2018

Objetivo: Avaliar a utilização clínica da dexmedetomidina e o custo econômico de sua aquisição em pacientes adultos em um hospital universitário. Métodos: Estudo observacional e descritivo do tipo prospectivo, em que foram analisados os formulários de solicitações do medicamento entre 15 de dezembro de 2016 e 15 de dezembro de 2017. Os dados coletados foram idade, gênero, dias solicitados e liberados, justificativa clínica, dose, posologia e via de administração. O custo financeiro foi calculado considerando o valor unitário do medicamento. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo STATA12.0. Resultados: Foram coletados 79 formulários; 14 foram da UTI cardiológica, 41, da UTI de adulto e 24, do centro cirúrgico. As solicitações foram separadas em grupos cirúrgico e clínico. Foi observada prevalência de pacientes com idade acima de 30 anos e sexo masculino. No grupo cirúrgico, o tempo médio de solicitação e liberação foi igual, enquanto no grupo clínico foi de 3,73 e 3 dias, respectivamente. A dose diária foi de 233,33 mcg/dia no grupo cirúrgico e de 773,77 μg/ dia no clínico. No grupo cirúrgico, o uso foi para sedação em plástica mamária não estética; no grupo clínico, foi para agitação psicomotora, sedoanalgesia e delirium. O custo no grupo clínico foi de R$ 58.470,65, enquanto no grupo cirúrgico foi de R$ 2.995,65, totalizando R$ 61.466,30. Conclusão: O custo econômico encontrado com o uso do medicamento foi similar ao achado em outro hospital público de alta complexidade.
Custo do erro de medicação e eventos adversos à medicação na cadeia medicamentosa: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Vilela Renata , Pompeo Daniele , Jericó Marli , Werneck Alexandre
Published: September 2018

Objetivo: Analisar os estudos sobre o custo dos erros de medicação e eventos adversos à medicação nas etapas da cadeia medicamentosa. Métodos: Revisão integrativa, realizada nas bases de dados LILACS (Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde), CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) e MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval Sistem on- -line), no período de 2005 a 2017. Resultados: Foram analisados 19 artigos, com predomínio do nível 6 de evidência, tanto pelo sistema hierárquico (63,2%) quanto para avaliações econômicas (42,1%). Dentre os estudos, sete estavam relacionados à prescrição, um, à administração, dois, à prescrição e administração e nove contemplavam todas as etapas da cadeia medicamentosa. Houve grande assimetria de valores apresentada na estimação de custo evitável/erro de medicação, com média de US$ 617.493.770,36, variando de US$ 83,32 a US$ 5.095.640.000,00. Conclusão: Foi possível comprovar que os erros de medicação podem gerar alto custo e representam uma importante fonte de desperdício e ineficiência hospitalar, reiterando a importância na adoção de medidas preventivas.
Influência da estrutura de governança no desenvolvimento das competências organizacionais: estudo nos serviços de saúde
Authors: Picchiai Djair , Soligo Roseli
Published: September 2018

O objetivo deste artigo foi identificar a influência da estrutura de governança no desenvolvimento das competências organizacionais, na perspectiva da Economia dos Custos de Transação (ECT). Analisaram-se duas empresas de uma corporação da área da saúde atuantes em Campinas e região. O portfólio de ambas são exames de diagnóstico por imagem (ressonância magnética [RM], tomografia, ultrassom e mamografia). O presente estudo caracterizou-se como um estudo de caso exploratório (Yin, 2001). Devido a um forte crescimento da demanda de exames de RM na matriz, foi necessária a contratação de um fornecedor especializado nessa modalidade, para quem foi transferida apenas e tão somente a atividade de laudos de baixa complexidade, e assim a estrutura de governança da matriz passou a ser híbrida. Os resultados do estudo apontaram que as estruturas de governança não somente influenciaram no desenvolvimento de novas, como interagiram para o fortalecimento e a eliminação de algumas competências organizacionais vigentes.
Orthodontic treatment need in a group of 6–12-year-old children in Szczecin
Authors: Szyszka-Sommerfeld Liliana , Machoy Monika , Buczkowska-Radlińska Jadwiga , Woźniak Krzysztof
Published: September 2018

ABSTRAKTWstęp: Celem pracy była ocena ortodontycznej potrzeby leczenia w populacji dzieci w Szczecinie oraz określenie możliwych czynników związanych z tą potrzebą.Materiały i metody: Badaniem objęto 532 dzieci nieleczonych ortodontycznie, podzielonych na dwie grupy: 279 6–8-latków i 253 9–12-latków. Ortodontyczną potrzebę leczenia oceniono za pomocą komponenty zdrowotnej (DHC) i komponenty estetycznej (AC) wskaźnika ortodontycznej potrzeby leczniczej. Wyniki poddano analizie za pomocą testu χ2. Analizę wieloczynnikowej regresji logistycznej przeprowadzono w celu ustalenia związku między potrzebą leczenia a zmiennymi niezależnymi.Wyniki: Pomiędzy grupami 6–8-latków i 9–12-latków zaobserwowano istotne statystycznie różnice na podstawie dwóch komponent wskaźnika (DHC ≥ 4 i/lub AC ≥ 8) w ocenie wyraźnej potrzeby leczenia (odpowiednio 14% i 20,6%; p = 0,044). Czynniki takie jak nieprawidłowości zębowe, II klasa Angle’a, zwiększony nagryz poziomy, zgryz krzyżowy, a także przemieszczenie punktów kontaktu były istotnie statystycznie związane z wyraźną potrzebą leczenia (DHC stopień 4 i 5).Wnioski: W badanej populacji ortodontyczna potrzeba leczenia była zbliżona lub mniejsza w porównaniu z innymi populacjami europejskimi. Większa potrzeba leczenia zaobserwowana w grupie 9–12-latków podkreśla znaczenie wczesnej diagnozy wad zgryzu oraz konieczności zgłaszania się pacjentów do leczenia we właściwym czasie.
Comparison of body mass reduction obtained with RYGB and SG bariatric procedures and with a reduction diet – procedures versus reduction diet
Authors: Szczuko Małgorzata , Komorniak Natalia , Jaroszek Agata
Published: September 2018

ABSTRAKT Wstęp: Otyłość olbrzymia staje się coraz większym problemem zdrowotnym, a rosnąca popularność operacji bariatrycznych wydaje się dobrym rozwiązaniem w walce o uzyskanie prawidłowej masy ciała i poprawę zdrowia. Celem pracy było zbadanie, czy operacje bariatryczne są skuteczniejsze od zastosowania racjonalnej diety redukcyjnej w uzyskaniu redukcji masy ciała i prawidłowej podaży składników pokarmowych. Materiały i metody: Badania zostały przeprowadzone wśród 40 pacjentek zgłaszających się na operacje bariatryczne metodą ominięcia żołądkowo-jelitowego lub rękawowej resekcji żołądka. Średnia wieku kobiet wynosiła 43,7 (SD 24,4) lat, średnia masa ciała 127,7 kg (SD 11,3), przy średnim wzroście 168,14 cm (SD 7,5). Obliczenia statystyczne wykonano przy użyciu programu Statistica 12. Wyniki: Utrata masy ciała na diecie redukcyjnej przez okres 13 miesięcy wynosi 26–42 kg w zależności od aktywności fizycznej. W grupie pacjentów po operacji bariatrycznej średni ubytek masy ciała po 13 miesiącach wyniósł ok. 33 kg (SD 14,33). Dieta redukcyjna po operacji była układana zgodnie z zaleceniami przy użyciu programu Dieta 5 rekomendowanego przez Instytut Żywności i Żywienia. Dieta po operacji bariatrycznej charakteryzowała się kalorycznością 1237 kcal, w tym odsetek z białka 26,9%, tłuszczu 34,6%, węglowodanów 38,4%. Dieta pacjentek po operacji była niedoborowa pod względem podaży potasu, wapnia, magnezu, żelaza, cynku, jodu, witamin E, B1, D, kwasu foliowego i błonnika pokarmowego. Wnioski: Redukcja masy ciała odpowiednią dietą oraz poprzez zwiększenie aktywności fizycznej może być skuteczniejszą metodą w leczeniu otyłości niż operacje bariatryczne. Stwarza mniejsze ryzyko komplikacji oraz wystąpienia niedoborów żywieniowych. W obu przypadkach niezbędna jest długoterminowa pomoc dietetyka i psychologa oraz wypracowanie prawidłowych nawyków żywieniowych.
Efekty hipoterapii. Przegląd aktualnych doniesień (2013–2017)
Authors: Ciechanowicz Iwona , Lubkowska Anna
Published: September 2018

ABSTRAKTWstęp: Hipoterapia jest ważną metodą usprawniania osób z problemami natury zarówno psychicznej, jak i fizycznej. Oddziałuje ona w trzech podstawowych sferach funkcjonowania człowieka. W sferze fizycznej podnosi ogólną sprawność, normalizuje napięcie mięśniowe, toruje prawidłowy wzorzec chodu, poprawia koordynację zdolności motorycznych, w tym głównie równowagi i poczucia rytmu. Poprawia orientację w przestrzeni i schemacie własnego ciała oraz stymuluje normalizację czucia głębokiego i powierzchniowego. W sferze emocjonalno-motywacyjnej powoduje wzrost motywacji i akceptacji procesu terapeutycznego. Zwiększa poczucie własnej wartości i zmniejsza zaburzenia emocjonalne. W obrębie strefy poznawczej stymuluje odbiór wrażeń zmysłowych. Poprawia percepcję wzrokową i słuchową. Stymuluje uwagę, pamięć, myślenie, mowę oraz nabywanie i rozwijanie nowych umiejętności. Natomiast w strefie społecznej aktywizuje psychospołecznie i rozwija pozytywne relacje społeczne.Coraz częściej bada się efekty stosowania hipoterapii u dzieci i dorosłych z różnymi dolegliwościami. Badania te prowadzone są różnymi metodami i przynoszą odmienne wyniki. Celem niniejszej pracy był przegląd aktualnych doniesień z obrębu recenzowanych czasopism naukowych o zasięgu międzynarodowym dotyczących badań nad efektywnością terapii z udziałem konia.Wyniki i wnioski: Wyłoniono 13 publikacji z lat 2013–2017 spełniających kryteria wyszukiwania. Uzyskane wyniki wykazały, że najlepsze efekty osiągane są w zakresie usprawniania motorycznego, głównie w zakresie poprawy równowagi, postawy, chodu oraz komunikacji i percepcji społecznej.
Zgorzel Fourniera powikłana martwicą jelit – opis przypadku
Authors: Żyluk Andrzej , Jagielski Wojciech
Published: September 2018

ABSTRAKT Opisano przypadek martwiczego zapalenia tkanek miękkich okołoodbytowych (zgorzel Fourniera) u nieobciążonej dodatkowymi chorobami 64-letniej pacjentki. Choroba rozwinęła się w ciągu 5 dni, powodując rozległą martwicę tkanek miękkich i posocznicę. W leczeniu zastosowano wyłonienie kolostomii pętlowej, wycinanie zmian martwiczych i celowaną antybiotykoterapię, ale bez zasadniczej poprawy. Po kilku dniach doszło do martwicy i przedziurawienia najpierw poprzecznicy, a potem jelita krętego, co wymagało wycięcia tych części jelit. Pomimo intensywnego leczenia pacjentka zmarła po 9 dniach od przyjęcia do szpitala. Opisany przypadek zgorzeli Fourniera jest ciekawy z uwagi na współistnienie martwicy i przedziurawień jelit, co dotychczas nie było opisywane.
Odległe wyniki replantacji rąk
Authors: Żyluk Andrzej , Owczarska Ada
Published: September 2018

ABSTRAKT Wstęp: Celem pracy była ocena wyników czynnościowych u pacjentów, którym wykonano replantacje rąk w Klinice Chirurgii Ogólnej i Chirurgii Ręki Pomorskiego Uniwersytetu Medycznego w Szczecinie, co najmniej przed 5 laty. Materiały i metody: Zebrano dane 54 pacjentów, którym w latach 2009–2012 wykonano udaną replantację amputowanych rąk lub palców. Do tych osób wysłano zestaw kwestionariuszy z pytaniami o sprawność kończyny (kwestionariusz DASH), poziom jakości życia (kwestionariusz SF-36), objawy nadwrażliwości na ochłodzenie i powrót do pracy. Otrzymano 22 wypełnione kwestionariusze (41% wysłanych) i te dane były przedmiotem analizy. W tej grupie było także 5 pacjentów, których zbadano bezpośrednio w szpitalu. Podstawę oceny stanowiły wyniki uzyskane od 22 pacjentów, 20 mężczyzn i 2 kobiet w średniej wieku 43 lat (zakres 20–82), którzy mieli wykonaną replantację ręki/palców średnio 6,5 roku przed badaniem (zakres 5–7). Najwięcej pacjentów miało replantację na wysokości śródręcza (n = 9), palców II–V (n = 8), nadgarstka (n = 2), kciuka (n = 2) i przedramienia (n = 1). Przyczyną urazu w 15 (68%) przypadkach była piła tarczowa, a w pozostałych maszyny przemysłowe i rolnicze. Wyniki: Średnia punktacja kwestionariusza DASH dla całej grupy wynosiła 23 (zakres 2–74), co wskazywało na średnio niewielkie upośledzenie czynności replantowanej ręki. Bardzo dobrą czynność ręki miało 10 (45%) pacjentów (DASH <20), 7 (32%) – niewielkie upośledzenie (DASH 21–40), a 5 (23%) – znaczne upośledzenie (DASH >40). Najlepsze wyniki pod względem czynnościowym wykazywali pacjenci po replantacjach nadgarstka i kciuka (DASH 4), nieco gorsze po replantacjach palców II–V (DASH 16), a najgorsze po replantacji śródręcza i przedramienia (DASH 33). Średnia punktacja kwestionariusza SF-36 w domenie fizycznej wynosiła 61 pkt (dobra jakość życia), a w sferze mentalnej 58 pkt (średnia jakość życia). Dość dokuczliwe objawy nietolerancji zimna miało 20 (91%) pacjentów. Do wcześniej wykonywanej pracy wróciło 12 (54%) osób. Wniosek: Uzyskane wyniki wskazują, że większości pacjentów udało się uzyskać dobrą czynność replantowanych rąk, pozwalającą na dobre funkcjonowanie w życiu codziennym, a części na powrót do pracy.
Optimal behavior strategy in the GMIB product
Authors: Kalife Aymeric , López Ruiz Gabriela , Mouti Saad , Tan Xiaolu
Published: September 2018

Guaranteed Minimum Income benefit are variable annuities contract, which offer the policyholder the possibility to con- vert the guarantee level into an annuities income for life. This paper focuses on the optimal customer behavior assuming the maximization of the discounted expected future cash flows over the full life of the contract duration. Using convenient scaling properties of the contract value enables to reduce the complexity (dimension) of the problem and to characterize the policyholder’s decision as a function of the contract moneyness across four main choices: zero withdrawals, guaranteed withdrawals, lapse and the income period election. Sensitivities to key drivers such as the market volatility, the interest rate and the roll-up rate illustrate how crucial are not only the environment, but also the product design features, in order to ensure a fair and robust pricing for both customer and life insurer. In particular, the authors find that most empirical contracts are usually underpriced compared to mean optimal behavior pricing, which empirically translated into multiple updates of behavior assumptions and re-reserving by life insurers in the recent years.
The Value of Urinary Cystatin C Level to Predict Neonatal Kidney Injury
Authors: Khosravi Nastaran , Zadkarami Masoud , Chobdar Farhad , Hoseini Rozita , Khalesi Nasrin , Panahi Parsa , Karimi Alireza
Published: September 2018

Background:

The role of urinary cystatin C to early predict acute kidney injury (AKI) in children and
neonates remains uncertain. The present study aimed to assess and compare the level of urinary cystatin C in
neonates with and those without AKI.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was performed on 55 available neonates who were involved by AKI and
admitted to the neonatal department at Ali-Asghar hospital in Tehran in 2016. 97 neonates with jaundice and
normal serum creatinine level were randomly selected as the control group. In both groups and on admission, the
urine levels of cystatin C and creatinine were measured.

Results:

The average urinary level of cystatin C was 162.87 ± 56.50 mmol/mole creatinine in the group with AKI
and 68.06 ± 57.16 mmol/mole creatinine in the control group that was significantly higher in former group (p <
0.001). The measurement of cystatin C level in urine could predict kidney injury with a sensitivity of 98.2%, a
specificity of 39.2%, a positive predictive value of 47.8%, a negative predictive value of 97.4%, and an accuracy
of 60.5%. Assessment of the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that measuring
urinary cystatin C level could effectively discriminate kidney injury from normal kidney condition in neonates
(AUC = 0.868, 95CI: 0.811 – 0.925, P < 0.001). The best cutoff value of urinary cystatin C level to predict
kidney injury was shown to be 41.5 mmol/mole creatinine yielding a sensitivity of 98.2% and a specificity of
46.4%.

Conclusion:

Measurement of cystatin C in urine is an early sensitive method to diagnose neonatal kidney injury.
The Role of Xenobiotic Receptors on Hepatic Glycolipid Metabolism
Authors: Chen Ke , Zhong Jinwei , Hu Lin , Li Ruliu , Du Qun , Cai Jiazhong , Li Yanwu , Gao Yong , Cui Xiaona , Yang Xiaoying , Wu Xiaojie , Yao Lu , Dai Juji , Wang Yan , Jin Haiyong
Published: September 2018

Background:

PXR (Pregnane X Receptor) and CAR (Constitutive Androstane Receptor) are termed as
xenobiotic receptors, which are known as core factors in regulation of the transcription of metabolic enzymes and
drug transporters. However, accumulating evidence has shown that PXR and CAR exert their effects on energy metabolism
through the regulation of gluconeogenesis, lipogenesis and β-oxidation. Therefore, in this review, we are
trying to summary recent advances to show how xenobiotic receptors regulate energy metabolism.

Methods:

A structured search of databases has been performed by using focused review topics. According to conceptual
framework, the main idea of research literature was summarized and presented.

Results:

For introduction of each receptor, the general introduction and the critical functions in hepatic glucose and
lipid metabolism have been included. Recent important studies have shown that CAR acts as a negative regulator of
lipogenesis, gluconeogenesis and β -oxidation. PXR activation induces lipogenesis, inhibits gluconeogenesis and
inhabits β-oxidation.

Conclusion:

In this review, the importance of xenobiotic receptors in hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism has been
confirmed. Therefore, PXR and CAR may become new therapeutic targets for metabolic syndrome, including obesity
and diabetes. However, further research is required to promote the clinical application of this new energy metabolism
function of xenobiotic receptors.
Dietary Patterns: A New Therapeutic Approach for Depression?
Authors: Jesus Mariana , Silva Tânia , Cagigal César , Martins Vera , Silva Carla
Published: September 2018

Introduction:

The field of nutritional psychiatry is a fast-growing one. Although initially, it
focused on the effects of vitamins and micronutrients in mental health, in the last decade, its focus also
extended to the dietary patterns. The possibility of a dietary cost-effective intervention in the most
common mental disorder, depression, cannot be overlooked due to its potential large-scale impact.

Method:

A classic review of the literature was conducted, and studies published between 2010 and
2018 focusing on the impact of dietary patterns in depression and depressive symptoms were included.

Results:

We found 10 studies that matched our criteria. Most studies showed an inverse association between
healthy dietary patterns, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, nuts and whole grains, and with
low intake of processed and sugary foods, and depression and depressive symptoms throughout an array
of age groups, although some authors reported statistical significance only in women. While most
studies were of cross-sectional design, making it difficult to infer causality, a randomized controlled
trial presented similar results.

Discussion:

he association between dietary patterns and depression is now well-established, although
the exact etiological pathways are still unknown. Dietary intervention, with the implementation of
healthier dietary patterns, closer to the traditional ones, can play an important role in the prevention
and adjunctive therapy of depression and depressive symptoms.

Conclusion:

More large-scale randomized clinical trials need to be conducted, in order to confirm the
association between high-quality dietary patterns and lower risk of depression and depressive symptoms.
The Place for Enzymes and Biologically Active Peptides from Marine Organisms for Application in Industrial and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Authors: Morlighem Jean-Étienne R.L. , Radis-Baptista Gandhi
Published: September 2018

Since the beginning of written history, diverse texts have reported the use of enzymatic preparations in food processing and have described the medicinal properties of crude and fractionated venoms to treat various diseases and injuries. With the biochemical characterization of enzymes from distinct sources and bioactive polypeptides from animal venoms, the last sixty years have testified the advent of industrial enzymology and protein therapeutics, which are currently applicable in a wide variety of industrial processes, household products, and pharmaceuticals. Bioprospecting of novel biocatalysts and bioactive peptides is propelled by their unsurpassed properties that are applicable for current and future green industrial processes, biotechnology, and biomedicine. The demand for both novel enzymes with desired characteristics and novel peptides that lead to drug development, has experienced a steady increase in response to the expanding global market for industrial enzymes and peptidebased drugs. Moreover, although largely unexplored, oceans and marine realms, with their unique ecosystems inhabited by a large variety of species, including a considerable number of venomous animals, are recognized as untapped reservoirs of molecules and macromolecules (enzymes and bioactive venom-derived peptides) that can potentially be converted into highly valuable biopharmaceutical products. In this review, we have focused on enzymes and animal venom (poly)peptides that are presently in biotechnological use, and considering the state of prospection of marine resources, on the discovery of useful industrial biocatalysts and drug leads with novel structures exhibiting selectivity and improved performance.
Aspects of Nanomaterials in Wound Healing
Authors: Chakrabarti Srijita , Chattopadhyay Pronobesh , Islam Johirul , Ray Subhabrata , Raju Pakalapati Srinivas , Mazumder Bhaskar
Published: September 2018

Wound infections impose a remarkable clinical challenge that has a considerable influence on morbidity and mortality of patients, influencing the cost of treatment. The unprecedented advancements in molecular biology have come up with new molecular and cellular targets that can be successfully applied to develop smarter therapeutics against diversified categories of wounds such as acute and chronic wounds. However, nanotechnology-based diagnostics and treatments have achieved a new horizon in the arena of wound care due to its ability to deliver a plethora of therapeutics into the target site, and to target the complexity of the normal wound-healing process, cell type specificity, and plethora of regulating molecules as well as pathophysiology of chronic wounds. The emerging concepts of nanobiomaterials such as nanoparticles, nanoemulsion, nanofibrous scaffolds, graphene-based nanocomposites, etc., and nano-sized biomaterials like peptides/proteins, DNA/RNA, oligosaccharides have a vast application in the arena of wound care. Multi-functional, unique nano-wound care formulations have acquired major attention by facilitating the wound healing process. In this review, emphasis has been given to different types of nanomaterials used in external wound healing (chronic cutaneous wound healing); the concepts of basic mechanisms of wound healing process and the promising strategies that can help in the field of wound management.
The Assessment of Anxiety and Depression and its Associated Factors in SLE
Authors: Kwan Andrew , Katz Patricia , Touma Zahi
Published: September 2018

Background:

Depression and anxiety are common neuropsychiatric complaints in patients
with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). While numerous studies have been performed to
investigate the prevalence, impact, and associated factors of depression and anxiety, current literature
presents mixed results. In particular, the prevalence of anxiety and depression varies substantially
between studies due to methodological limitations, and heterogeneity in defining anxiety and
depression, patient selection, and metrics used. Moreover, there is a lack of studies evaluating the
validity, reliability, and interpretability of commonly used screening tools for depression and anxiety
in SLE patients.

Result and Conclusion:

Further investigations should aim to reach a consensus surrounding the
role of controversial associated factors in depression and anxiety of SLE patients, while also focusing
on the identification of novel factors that have not yet been highlighted in the literature.
Benefícios do exercício aeróbico em mulheres no processo de emagrecimento
Authors: Faria Karina da Silva
Published: September 2018

A pesquisa consiste na análise dos diferentes tipos de treinamentos (treinamento aeróbico, treinamento resistido e treinamento concomitante) perante a diminuição do percentual de gordura corporal em mulheres. Seu objetivo reflexão sobre a importância do acompanhamento profissional na realização dos exercícios aeróbicos bem como elucidar os benefícios dos treinamentos para se obter os resultados esperados, por aquelas pessoas que desejam se beneficiar, movimentar o corpo engajando-se em um exercício físico que possibilite movimentar todos os músculos do corpo, podendo eliminar gordura e substituí-la por massa muscular bem como elucidar os fatores de risco associados à obesidade e sedentarismo por meio de uma revisão sistemática de artigos nacionais. Para tanto, foi realizada uma pesquisa nas bases de dados Medline, Scielo, Science direct, Pubmed, Capes, livros e revistas sobre o tema.
Qualidade de vida dos profissionais atuantes no centro cirúrgico em Patos de Minas - MG
Authors: Soares Luciana Maria Pereira , Oliveira Victor Constante , Souza Luiza Araújo Amâncio
Published: September 2018

Este estudo descritivo exploratório teve por objetivo avaliar os fatores estressantes que interferem na qualidade de vida dos profissionais que atuam no CC em Patos de Minas-MG. Os dados foram coletados entre os meses de fevereiro e março de 2017, por meio de um questionário contendo uma questão norteadora com 22 profissionais, sendo 13 técnicos de enfermagem, cinco enfermeiros e quatro médicos. Aplicou-se análise de conteúdo temática resultando em seis categorias.Os resultados apontam que a maioria era do sexo feminino, casados, com idade média entre 26 e 45 anos, e técnicos de enfermagem. Na avaliação geral da qualidade de vida, os dados obtidos revelaram que o fator que mais gera estresse na vida desses profissionais é o tipo de ambiente fechado, sendo que os demais fatores variaram de acordo com a categoria profissional. Conclui-se que os profissionais de enfermagem vivenciaram o estresse relacionado a diversos fatores de natureza objetiva.