bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting plot soil loss by empirical and process-oriented approaches. A review
Authors: Bagarello Vincenzo , Ferro Vito , Flanagan Dennis
Published: July 2018

Soil erosion directly affects the quality of the soil, its agricultural productivity and its biological diversity. Many mathematical models have been developed to estimate plot soil erosion at different temporal scales. At present, empirical soil loss equations and process-oriented models are considered as constituting a complementary suite of models to be chosen to meet the specific user need. In this paper, the Universal Soil Loss Equation and its revised versions are first reviewed. Selected methodologies developed to estimate the factors of the model with the aim to improve the soil loss estimate are described. Then the Water Erosion Prediction Project which represents a process-oriented technology for soil erosion prediction at different spatial scales, is presented. The available criteria to discriminate between acceptable and unacceptable soil loss estimates are subsequently introduced. Finally, some research needs, concerning tests of both empirical and process-oriented models, estimates of the soil loss of given return periods, reliability of soil loss measurements, measurements of rill and gully erosion, and physical models are delineated.
Performance evaluation of a cabinet solar dryer for drying red pepper in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Muhammad Zakaria , Alam Md Masud , Bin Hossain Md Faruq , Sarker MSH , Awal Md Abdul , Jahan Nusrat
Published: July 2018

A cabinet type solar dryer was designed and fabricated over a collector and dryer area of 4.00 m2 and 7.5 m2 respectively for the geographical condition of Bangladesh. Red pepper was used to test the performance of the dryer. The upper tray and lower tray pepper drying needed 36 and 41 h to reduce moisture from 73% (wet basis) to 10% (wet basis) respectively and found 9 kg dried pepper from 30 kg fresh red ripe pepper. In contrast, open sun drying needed 85 h to reduce moisture from 73% (wet basis) to 11% (wet basis) and produced 2.43 kg dried pepper from 8 kg red ripe pepper. The average global radiation was about 133 W/m2 while the flux incidence and flux absorbed on collector was about 128 W/m2 and 103 W/m2 respectively. The average collector and dryer efficiency was about 48% and 34% respectively. The average exergy efficiency was obtained 63%. The average rate of top, bottom and side collector loss was 37 W/m2, 20 W/m2 and 3 W/m2 respectively. The upper tray, lower tray and open sun pepper seed germination was 76%, 81% and 85% respectively (P≥0.01). The redness value of lower tray pepper (a*=27.1) was higher followed by upper tray (a*=24.7) and open sun pepper powder (a*=21.1), which means direct exposure of sunlight diminishes the quality of pepper colour. The redness value of fabricated solar drying was significantly (P≤0.01) higher than that of open sun drying.
Receptor of advanced glycation end products and cardiovascular risk in elderly with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Borsa Claudia , Gradinaru Daniela , Margina Denisa , Prada Gabriel Ioan , Pena Catalina
Published: July 2018

The interaction of Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs) and their specific receptor, Receptor for Advanced Glycation End products (RAGE) play an important role in diabetes and vascular complications. Engagement of RAGE by AGEs leads to activation of cellular signaling pathways and vascular dysfunction. The soluble RAGE (sRAGE) acts as a decoy receptor for AGEs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the soluble RAGE in elderly subjects with T2DM and its relationships with glycoxidative, inflammatory and cardiovascular risk markers. The serum AGEs, sRAGE, interleukine- 6 (IL-6), lipid profile, glycemic status, uric acid, creatinine and cardiovascular risk markers were determined in elderly subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM, N=72, 75±4 years old) and aged-match healthy subjects (N=15, 76±3 years old). Significant higher levels of AGEs and AGEs/sRAGE ratio concomitantly with significant lower levels of sRAGE were pointed out in elderly subjects with T2DM as compared to control. The values of AGEs/sRAGE ratio were significantly positively associated (P<0.05) with atherogenic, inflammatory and cardiovascular risk markers and significantly negatively with anti-atherogenic lipoproteins (P<0.05). The multivariate regression analyses showed that atherogenic index was an independent predictor of sRAGE levels and AGEs/sRAGE ratio values. The associations of soluble RAGE and the AGEs/sRAGE ratio with atherogenic and inflammatory markers could reflect the protective role of soluble variants of RAGE in atherosclerosis and diabetes vascular complications.
Importance of mir-411-5p in colorectal cancer
Authors: Fateh Alavieh , Hosseinpour Feizi Mohammad Ali , Safaralizadeh Reza , Azarbarzin Shirin
Published: July 2018

The abnormal expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays a key role in colorectal cancer (CRC). The present study attempted to identify the potential miRNA biomarkers of CRC due to the important role of microRNAs within the DLK1-DIO3 genomic region, especially the role of mir-411-5p in other cancers. This prospective study characterized the contribution of mir-411-5p to CRC tumorigenesis. The Real-time quantitative reverse-transcription –polymerase chain reaction was used to examine miR-411-5p expression levels prospectively in 40 pairs of samples of CRC tissues and adjacent noncancerous tissues (>2 cm from cancer tissue). Also, the relationship between miR-411-5p expression levels and clinicopathological characteristics was explored. The capability of miR-411-5p to function as a tumor marker in CRC was also examined. MiR-411-5p was significantly downregulated in a group of CRC samples compared with matched noncancerous tissues. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve also showed ROC area of 68% for miR-411-5p (P value=0.006) with 70% and 65% sensitivity and specificity, respectively. According to the survey results, miR-411-5p might be considered as a tumor marker in CRC and it might be a promising therapeutic option which may help prevent CRC.
Experimental biology in basic and applied research to the environment and human health
Authors: Editors The
Published: July 2018

This abstract book contains the abstracts presented at the 90th SIBS National Congress on Experimental biology in basic and applied research to the environment and human health | Trapani, Italy, 27-28 October 2017.
Trials on the Timing of Chemical Control of Lentil weevil, Bruchus lentis Frӧlich (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) in Lentil Field in Gachsaran Region (Iran)
Authors: Saeidi K. , Mirfakhraie S.
Published: July 2018

The lentil weevil, Bruchus lentis Frӧlich, (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) is the most serious pest of lentil in Iran. Economic losses due to this pest reach up to 40% of the lentil crop. Over a two-year study (2012 and 2013) in Agricultural Research Station of Gachsaran Region, best timing of chemical control of B. lentis was determined. A field experiment with cultivation of lentil Sina variety Lens culinaris Medik was conducted in a randomized complete block design with five treatments and three replications. The treatments consisted of spraying four times (respectively, during the early flowering, 10 days after the first spraying, 10 days after the second spraying; 10 days after the third spraying) and control (without spraying). For the spraying from Endosulfan insecticide EC50% at ratio one liter per hectare was used. Three samples were taken from the pods and totally 150 pods from each replicate for contaminations of seeds were investigated. After the determination of the percent of seeds contamination, results were statistically analysed. Based on the results obtained, first spray treatment, with the mean contamination of 15.45% and second spray treatment with the mean contamination of 12.25% had the highest impact on reducing contamination lentil seeds to B. lentis and between them there was no statistically significant difference and were in one group. Therefore, spraying one time during the early flowering until 15 days after it was the best time to control of B. lentis.
Drastic reduction in density of Blattella germanica and Periplaneta americana cockroaches after the application of fenitrothion and lindane in Dema, Zimbabwe
Authors: Lukwa N. , Mduluza T. , Nyoni C. , Zimba M.
Published: July 2018

Field studies were conducted in villages near the peri urban Dema area, Seke district, Zimbabwe, in order to understand the effect of the insecticides fenitrothion and lindane on Periplaneta americana and Blattella germanica cockroaches. A total of 63, 72 and 71 rooms were used for control, fenitrothion and lindane respectively. The mean density per room for P. americana before spraying was 43.5, 42.7 and 44.1 for the control, fenitrothion and lindane respectively. The mean density per room for B. germanica before spraying was 51.4, 50.2 and 47.1 for the control, fenitrothion and lindane respectively. A reduction in population density of P. americana was 3.2%, 83.8% and 99.3% in the control, fenitrothion and lindane rooms respectively. A reduction in population density of B. germanica was 87.8% and 82.8% in fenitrothion and lindane rooms respectively. An increase of 9.9% in the control rooms was observed. The majority of P. americana cockroaches died one month post spray with fenitrothion killing 78.2% and lindane 37.4% of all cockroach collections. However, the number of dead B. germanica cockroaches was almost of the same order for fenitrothion (71.9%) and lindane (74.5%). The residual effect of fenitrothion was 3 months on both cockroach nymph species and that of lindane was 1 month. In conclusion, both fenitrothion and lindane had impact on cockroach density, and fenitrothion showed a residual effect of 3 months.
Environmental drivers influencing stonefly assemblages along a longitudinal gradient in karst lotic habitats
Authors: Ridl Anamarija , Vilenica Marina , Ivković Marija , Popijač Aleksandar , Sivec Ignac , Miliša Marko , Mihaljević Zlatko
Published: July 2018

Stoneflies are among the most sensitive aquatic insect taxa and therefore arguably the best indicator of the excellent, i.e. pristine, ecological status of surface streams. Karst habitats are one of the most exciting freshwater habitats in terms of biological-geological interplay. They, in turn, support a biodiversity far superior to surrounding freshwater habitats and hence these habitats are designated as biodiversity hotspots. Our study deals with both of these crucial ecological players. We studied stonefly assemblages, their microhabitat preferences and emergence patterns along a karst oligotrophic hydrosystem. The sampling was conducted monthly from March 2007 to December 2008 using pyramid-type emergence traps set in various habitats and associated microhabitats (e.g. springs, rivers, streams, tufa barriers × moss, angiosperm, cobble, sand, silt substrates). Favorable environmental conditions, such as a wide range of karst habitat types with low water temperature and high oxygen concentration, resulted in high stonefly species richness (31 recorded species). Water temperature and pH had the highest influence on stonefly assemblages. Species richness and diversity decreased in a downstream direction. We recorded a longitudinal shift from crenal-epirhithral to epirhithral-metarhithral assemblages with some hyporhithral and potamal elements. Upstream sites were dominated by shredders, while downstream sites had a higher proportion of gatherers-collectors. Several species showed a significant preference for a specific microhabitat type in accordance with their feeding strategies and food availability. The majority of recorded species exhibited univoltine life cycles slow or fast.
Efficacy of physical therapy associated with botulinum toxin type A on functional performance in post-stroke spasticity: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Prazeres Antonio , Lira Marília , Aguiar Paula , Monteiro Larissa , Vilasbôas Ítalo , Melo Ailton
Published: July 2018

The aim was to investigate if botulinum toxin type A (BTx-A) associated with physical therapy is superior to physical therapy alone in post stroke spasticity. A randomized, double-blinded controlled trial was performed in a rehabilitation unit on Northeastern, Brazil. Patients with post stroke spasticity were enrolled either to BTx-A injections and a pre-defined program of physical therapy or saline injections plus physical therapy. Primary endpoint was functional performance evaluated through time up and go test, six minutes walking test and Fugl-Meyer scale for upper limb. Secondary endpoint was spasticity improvement. Confidence interval was considered at 95%. Although there was a significant decrease in upper limbs flexor tonus (P<0.05) in the BTx-A group, there was no difference regarding functional performance after 9 months of treatment. When analyzing gait speed and performance, both groups showed a significant improvement in the third month of treatment, however it was not sustained over time. Although BTx-A shows superiority to improve muscle tone, physical therapy is the cornerstone to improve function in the upper limbs of post stroke patients.
Posterior cortical atrophy: A rare variant of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Meyer Michael A. , Hudock Stephen A.
Published: July 2018

Posterior cortical atrophy is a rare condition first described in 1988 involving progressive degeneration and atrophy of the occipital cortex, often recognized after an unexplained homonymous hemianopsia may be discovered. We report a case in association with Alzheimer’s disease in a 77-year-old female, who underwent brain single-photon emission computed tomography as well brain positron emission tomography using Florbetapir to further evaluate progressive cognitive decline. The patient had also been followed in Ophthalmology for glaucoma, where a progressive unexplained change in her visual field maps were noted over one year consistent with a progressive right homonymous hemianopsia. This rare combination of findings in association with her dementia led to a detailed review of all her imaging studies, concluding with the surprising recognition for a clear hemi-atrophy of the primary left occipital cortex was occurring, consistent with Alzheimer’s disease affecting the primary visual cortex. Further awareness of this disease pattern is needed, as Alzheimer’s disease typically does not affect the primary visual cortex; other conditions to consider in general include Lewy Body dementia, cortico-basal degeneration and prion disease.
New frontiers in rehabilitation. Oxygen-ozone therapy and neuronal plasticity in the treatment of Parkinson' symptoms
Authors: Morelli Luca , Bramani Simona Carla , Guarino Alessandra
Published: July 2018

Oxygen-ozone therapy is effective for both activation of the cerebral microcirculation and increasing energy production by neurons, as recent studies have shown. As well as this, it has been shown to have a proven anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic action, improve microcirculation, increase the production of cellular energy, activate the mitochondrial antioxidant system and facilitate the elimination of cell catabolites. It also seems that oxygen-ozone therapy improves and prolong the effects of drugs such as Levodopa, Selegiline and Bromocriptine and antioxidants, therefore these activities could help us understand the improvements recorded in Parkinson’s patients treated with oxygen-ozone therapy. The aim of our work was to carry out a postural, stabilometric and symptomatological assessment of the effects of oxygen-ozone therapy by using rectal insufflation in patients who undertook the intense motor activity of non-contact boxing. The results showed a significant reduction in the myofunctional, postural and stabilometric symptoms of Parkinsonian patients who practiced non-contact boxing activities, implemented though systemic oxygen-ozone therapy with insufflation.
Takayasu Arteritis with an Initial Presentation of Chronic Monoarthritis Mimicking Oligoarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Sukharomana Maynart , Viravan Sorawit , Piyaphanee Nuntawan , Charuvanij Sirirat
Published: July 2018

Patients with Takayasu arteritis (TA) generally present with non-specific symptoms that, if unrecognized and untreated, may develop vessel stenosis and/or aneurysm. There is limited data regarding chronic monoarthritis as the initial presentation in children with TA. We report a 6-yearold girl diagnosed and treated as oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). She later developed stroke with malignant hypertension and was definitively diagnosed with TA. She additionally developed proteinuria secondary to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. This is the report of a patient with chronic monoarthritis mimicking oligoarticular JIA which chronic monoarthritis was the presentation of TA. Since JIA is a diagnosis of exclusion, any atypical features of oligoarticular JIA should illuminate the possibility of an alternative diagnosis. Our literature review focused on musculoskeletal presentations of children with TA.
Minimal Access Thyroid Surgery in Children: A Retrospective Study and Literature Review
Authors: Lee Francis , Ha Jennifer , Lannigan Francis
Published: July 2018

Minimal access thyroid surgery (MATS) is a technique whereby a part of or whole of a thyroid lobe is removed through a small (3–4 cm) neck incision. Its use in the surgical management of thyroid disease in children has not been well elucidated. We present a retrospective case study of 12 patients over the period of 2007 to 2010 to assess the feasibility of MATS in the management of thyroid disease. Minimal access thyroid surgery is a safe and feasible approach for hemithyroidectomy/lobectomy in selected patients. There were no associated adverse events, complications or disease recurrence. We also reviewed the literature and discussed the use of MATS as a routine procedure in selected pediatric patients.
Improving Transfusion Practice in Transfusion Dependent Thalassaemia Patients
Authors: Wickremaarachchi Chathupa , McGill Elizabeth , Bosco Annmarie , Kidson-Gerber Giselee
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to improve current transfusion practice in transfusiondependent thalassaemia patients by determining whether safe transition from triplewashed red cells (TWRC) to leucodepleted red cells (LDRC), increasing transfusion rates, reducing the use of frusemide and creating uniform practice across patients is possible. In patients receiving regular transfusions (50), triple-washed red blood cells were changed to LDRC, transfusion rates were increased to 5 mL/kg/h (in line with the Cooley’s Foundation guidelines) to a maximum of 300 mL/h and frusemide was ceased. Medical review occurred at completion of the transfusion. Of the 20 patients on TWRC, 18 were transitioned to leucodepleted red cells (90%). Recurrent allergic reactions in 2 patients required re-institution of TWRC. 7 of the 8 patients on regular frusemide ceased this practice with no documented transfusion-related fluid overload. One patient refused. Of the eligible 50 patients, 20 patients (40%) were increased to the maximum transfusion rate of 300 mLs/h; 6 (12%) increased rate but refused to go to the maximum; 9 (18%) refused a change in practice and 15 (30%) were already at the maximum rate. There was only one documented transfusion reaction (palpitations) however this patient was able to tolerate a higher transfusion rate on subsequent transfusions. Thalassemia patients on TWRC were safely transitioned to LDRC. Transfusion rates were safely increased, with a calculated reduction in day-stay bed time of 17.45 h per month. This confirms a guideline of 5 mL/kg/h for transfusion-dependant thalassaemia patients with preserved cardiac function is well tolerated and may be translated to other centres worldwide.
Spontaneous Fertility in a Male Thalassemic Patient after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Authors: Iacovidou Nicoletta , Kollia Maria , Nana Emmeleia , Boutsikou Theodora , Savvidis Christos , Kattamis Antonis , Kyriakopoulou Dimitra , Ladis Vassilis
Published: July 2018

Patients with thalassemia major who received allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation are at increased risk of gonadal insufficiency and reduced fertility due to the toxicity of both the transfusional iron overload and the gonadotoxic effects of drugs used in the conditioning regimen. We present a case of an ex-thalassemic patient with spontaneous recovery of spermatogenesis that fathered a healthy, term male neonate. Maternal hemoglobin electrophoresis was within normal limits. At the age of 9.5 years the patient underwent hematopoietic cell transplantation. The conditioning therapy included busulfan (16 mg/kg) and cyclophosphamide (200 mg/kg). No irradiation was administered. Thirty-two days after the hematopoietic cell transplantation the patient developed acute graft-versus-host disease needing long-term treatment with methylprednisolone, cyclosporine and immunoglobulin. Although consecutive semen analyses after the hematopoietic cell transplantation revealed azoospermia, the last semen analysis before conception, at the age of 33 years, was improved and normal follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (Te) levels were detected. The current pregnancy was the result of physical conception. In this case, it seems that thalassemia major along with the respective treatment prior to- and posthematopoietic cell transplantation did not irreparably impair spermatogenesis, probably due to the pre-pubertal time frame they were implemented.
β Globin Mutations in Turkish, Northern Iraqi and Albanian Patients with β Thalassemia Major
Authors: Hancer Veysel Sabri , Fisgin Tunc , Buyukdogan Murat , Bozkurt Ceyhun , Lako Sotiraq
Published: July 2018

The mutation detection of β thalassemia is absolutely necessary for molecular diagnosis, as well as any genetic epidemiological study. The β globin gene has 3 exons and 2 introns, involved in β-thalassemic pathogenesis. The study aim of the study is to characterize the spectrum of β globin gene mutations in 136 Turkish, Northern Iraqi and Albanian pediatric β thalassemia major patients. After genomic DNA extraction from venous blood and amplification of the target DNA regions with PCR, genotyping was achieved by Sanger based DNA sequencing. The IVSI-110 G > A mutation was the most frequent allele in the Turkish and Albanian patients. In Northern Iraqi patients IVSI-1 G > A was is the most frequent. There are two mutations are firstly reported for Albania [c.*111 A > G 3’ UTR (rs63751128) and c.113 G > A (p.Trp38Ter, p.W38*) (rs35887507)] with this study. These findings may be of value for genetic counseling, premarital diagnosis, prenatal diagnosis and prevention programs.
Heart Disease in Patients with Haemoglobinopathies
Authors: Farmakis Dimitrios , Papingiotis George
Published: July 2018

Hereditary hemoglobin disorders, also termed haemoglobinopathies, include mainly beta -thalasszemia and sickle cell disease and represent the most common monogenic disorders in human [...]
Safety and Efficacy of Drugs: What Do I Need to Know?
Authors: Hadipour Dehshal Mahmoud
Published: July 2018

Access to the essential medicines is an important challenge in the developing countries [...]
Thalime: A Mobile App Designed Just for Patients and Their Families
Authors: McMicking Hatley Forrest
Published: July 2018

Introducing the first mobile app designed specifically for the Thalassemia community; Thalime, your personalized private community. Thalime is a free app that connects patients and caregivers of Thalassemia to others who know what you’re going through. Learn about your condition from a trusted source. Improve your well-being with health-tracking tools. Get support from others just like you. With personalized disease management tools designed to make life easier every day, Thalime is your all-in-one health resource that empowers you to be in control of your health. Build your private peer community to learn, share and receive support. Follow programs and set goals with our personalized recommendations and virtual coaching. Track your progress with our visual health tracker for blood transfusions and medication tracker. Additional health tracker tools allow you to monitor and share your mood, energy, pain and more.
New molecular targets for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Tosi Gian Marco , Barbarino Marcella , Orlandini Maurizio , Galvagni Federico
Published: July 2018

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive chronic disease that currently represents the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in the western world. Experimental and clinical evidence has demonstrated that vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) plays an important role in promoting the choroidal neovascularization that characterizes the wet form of AMD. Intravitreal injection of anti- VEGF-A agents is the current treatment of choice for neovascular AMD (nAMD). These agents have brought about dramatic changes in the treatment of nAMD, but most patients require frequently repeated injections and regular long-term follow-up, with a significant percentage of them showing resistance to anti-VEGF-A drugs. Thus, the identification of additional therapies that could improve the treatment protocols is needed. There are numerous areas of investigation into new treatments, with increasing efforts being made to study drugs that address various targets along the angiogenic signaling cascade, or other pathways related to the onset of nAMD. The aim of the present review is to summarize and discuss promising new therapies and targets that have the potential to improve outcomes and to lengthen treatment durability, especially in patients with recalcitrant or recurrent forms of nAMD.
Translational research for hepatocellular carcinoma: What’s new?
Authors: Pisconti Salvatore , Gnoni Antonio , Della Vittoria Scarpati Giuseppina , Licchetta Antonella , Silvestris Nicola , Giuliano Mario , Montrone Michele , Addeo Raffaele , Perri Francesco , Giordano Antonio
Published: July 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a heterogeneous disease that usually develops within liver cirrhosis. Cancerogenesis in HCC is not a clear process and, at present, there is not a well-defined sequence of DNA mutations able to explain the entire process, from normal hepatocyte to HCC. Lately, the impact of some oncogenes on HCC development has been studied and some of these genes belong to the MAPKinases pathway, highlighting the importance of downstream effectors stimulated by the interaction between extracellular growth factors and tyrosine kinase receptors. Unfortunately, drugs able to interfere with the aforementioned pathway showed no positive results in clinical trials. A number of preclinical studies have focused the attention on epigenetic changes in HCC cells, focusing on the extensive DNA hypermetilation as a factor causing the knockout of several tumor suppressor genes. Cancerogenesis of HCC, at least at an early phase, could be sustained by epigenetic changes. Finally, some authors have tried to classify HCC on the basis of gene mutations found after performing an extensive genome sequencing, and interestingly, they have identified different classes of HCC on the basis of different clusters of mutated genes. HCC is not characterized by a unique driver mutation, as the case of EGFR mutations for lung cancer or K-Ras mutations for colorectal cancer, thus it is, at present, very difficult to identify a reliable target for antitumoral therapy. This review focuses on current translational research and molecular targets in the treatment of HCC.
The superficial venous pump
Authors: Mazayshvili Konstantin
Published: July 2018

The present study has revealed the relationship between the cross sectional area of the great saphenous vein and the degree of tension in the superficial fascia of the thigh. We conducted an ultrasound examination with 27 patients (54 lower limbs) in both standing and walking positions. With an increase and decrease in the degree of tension of the superficial fascia, the blood is pushed to the sapheno-femoral junction. Nearly 200 mm3 of blood flows in, and is pushed out of, a 100-mm great saphenous vein segment in the thigh, towards the sapheno-femoral junction during a step cycle. As a result, the active function of the fascial compartment of the great saphenous vein has been found. We have called this mechanism the superficial venous pump.
Brave Dreams: An overestimated study, crippled by recruitment failure and misleading conclusions
Authors: Juurlink Bernhard H.J. , Bavera Pietro M. , Sclafani Salvatore , Petrov Ivo , Reid Donald B.
Published: July 2018

Not available
Venous compliance and clinical implications
Authors: Zamboni Paolo , Tavoni Valentina , Sisini Francesco , Pedriali Massimo , Rimondi Erika , Tessari Mirko , Menegatti Erica
Published: July 2018

Compliance is a characteristic of every deformable system. Compliance is very clear concept in physics and mechanics but in clinics, perhaps, is not the same. However, in veins compliance fits perfectly with the function of drainage of the venous system. Volumetric increase (dV) of the content is correlated with pressure increase (dP) inside the vein according to the equation C’= dV/dP. In humans 75% of the blood is located in the venous system, primarily because the molecular components of a vein media layer is significantly more compliant to that of arteries. This property is fundamental to understanding the change in blood volume in response to a change in posture. Measurements of venous compliance in clinical practice can be done by the means of ultrasound, as well as with the plethysmography. Ultrasound methods assimilate the cross sectional area to the volume of the vein, because it reflects the blood content. Changes in cross sectional area can be reliably measured in response to a change in posture, while pressure can be derived from the hydrostatic pressure changes. Venous compliance is of paramount importance also in pulsatile veins such as the inferior or superior vena cava and the jugular veins, where high resolution ultrasound may accurately derive the cross sectional area. Clinical implications of the mechanical properties of the venous wall are extensively discussed, including the need of dedicated venous stenting, which takes into account venous compliance as the main parameter of the venous function. In addition, venous compliance is the interpretative key for a better understanding of plethysmography curves, as well as of varicose veins and of their return to normal cross sectional area following ambulatory venous pressure reduction.
The social and aestetical aspects of venous and lymphatics disorders: professor Dino De Anna
Authors: Gasbarro Vincenzo
Published: July 2018

Not available
Metal contamination of the St. Lawrence River following a major release of untreated wastewater
Authors: Gagnon C. , Pilote M. , Turcotte P. , André C.
Published: July 2018

Not available
Exploring the causal relationship between the antecedents and consequences of talent management for early career academics in South African higher education institutions
Authors: Lesenyeho Dorcas L. , Barkhuizen Nicolene E. , Schutte Nico E.
Published: July 2018

Orientation: South African public higher education institutions (HEIs) are facing significant challenges to attract and retain quality early career academics. Therefore, the need exists to explore the potential antecedents and consequences of effective talent management practices for early career academics.Research purpose: The objective of this study was to explore the causal relationship between the antecedents (i.e. talent attraction; management support) and consequences (organisational commitment; intention to quit) for early career academics employed in selected South African public HEIs.Motivation for the study: Research using a holistic approach for the effective talent management of early career academics is lacking.Research approach/design and method: Quantitative data were gathered by administering a Talent Attraction Tool, a Talent Development Measure, a Talent Retention Diagnostic Tool and the Organisational Commitment Measure, using a sample of early career academics in public South African HEIs (N = 117).Main findings: The results showed that management support, talent development, compensation and recognition, and satisfaction with institutional practices significantly enhances the organisational commitment of early career academics and reduces their turnover intentions.Practical/managerial implications: The results highlight the importance of management support in enhancing the effective application of talent management practices among early career academics. Higher education managers are encouraged to implement talent development opportunities and adequate compensation and recognition practices to retain early career academics.Contribution/value-add: The research provides useful information on how talent management practices can be effectively applied to enhance the commitment and retention of early career academics.
The epidemiology, treatment, and determinants of outcome of primary head and neck cancers at the Jos University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Adoga Adeyi A. , Kokong Daniel D. , Ma’an Nuhu D. , Silas Olugbenga A. , Dauda Ayuba M. , Yaro John P. , Mugu Joyce G. , Mgbachi Chukwunonso J. , Yabak Caleb J.
Published: July 2018

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the epidemiology, treatment, and factors that determine the outcomes of head and neck cancers (HNC). Patients and Methods: Retrospective analytical review of HNC managed at the Jos University Teaching Hospital between May 2007 and April 2017 using the International Classification of Diseases version 10. Results: Of 487 head and neck neoplasms, 129 (26.5%) were malignant and 122 health records met the criteria for analysis consisting of 83 (68.0%) males and 39 (32.0%) females aged 13 years to 85 years (mean = 51 years; standard deviation = ±16.0 years). The most common presenting feature was nasal obstruction (n = 47; 38.5%). The most common tumor site was the nasopharynx (n = 34; 27.9%). Mean duration of symptoms was 13.3 months. Alcohol (P = 0.02), cigarette smoking (P = 0.01), and cooking wood smoke (P = 0.01) were associated with advanced tumor stage. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common histological type. Posttreatment complication rate was 47.5%. Lost to follow-up rate was 55.7%. The lungs were the most common distant metastatic site. The case fatality rate was 18.0%. Conclusion: HNC constitutes almost a quarter of head and neck tumors affecting twice the number of males in their sixth decade with nasopharyngeal cancers being the most common in both genders. Several modifiable variables are noted to target appropriate future cancer education for lifestyle modification, screening for early detection and treatment.
Palliative care and end-of-life measure outcomes: Experience of a tertiary care institute from South India
Authors: Adusumilli Praveen , Nayak Lingaraj , Viswanath Vidya , Digumarti Leela , Digumarti Raghunadha Rao
Published: July 2018

Introduction: Desisting from disease directed treatment in the past weeks of life is a quality criterion in oncology service. Patients with advanced cancer have unrealistic expectations from chemotherapy and hold on to it as a great source of hope. Many oncologists continue futile and unnecessary treatments, instead of conveying to the patients the lack of benefit, resulting in delayed referral for palliative care (PC). Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of case records from June 2014 to December 2015. The primary objective was to study, how far back in time terminally ill cancer patients received definitive cancer directed therapy (DCDT). Apart from patient demographics, the diagnosis, stage, and details of DCDT, and death were captured. PC referral data were recorded. DCDT to death was taken as treatment-free interval (TFI). Analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 20. Results: A total of 292 case records were evaluated. Seventy-three had inadequate treatment details. Hence, 219 records were analyzed. PC referral was done in 78.5% of patients. Only best supportive care (BSC) without any DCDT was given in 27 patients. The most common reason for BSC was a poor performance status in 92.5%. The median time from PC referral till death was 43.5 days (range: 1–518 days). Chemotherapy was the most common DCDT in 52.9% of patients. The median time from DCDT and death was 49 days (range: 0–359 days). Cervical and ovarian cancers patients had the longest TFI ; shortest in unknown primary. Most patients died at home (70.4%). Patients receiving PC preferred home or hospice as place of death. Of the 80 patients given hospice care, 39 (36.5%) died in the hospice. Conclusion: While DCDT needs to be started at the right time, it should also be discontinued when futile. Early involvement of the PC team, even while patients are on DCDT makes the transition smoother and more meaningful.
Metastatic Gastric cancer: Real world scenario from a developing country
Authors: Ganguly Sandip , Biswas Bivas , Ghosh Joydeep , Dabkara Deepak
Published: July 2018

Aim: Data on epidemiology and outcome in metastatic stomach carcinoma patients from India are scarce. We aimed to evaluate clinical features and treatment outcome in patients treated at our center. Materials and Methods: This is a single institutional review of metastatic gastric carcinoma patients treated between May 2011 and October 2016. Patients who received at least one cycle of chemotherapy were included for modified intent-to-treat survival analysis. Results: A total of 143 patients were diagnosed with metastatic stomach carcinoma with a median age of 56 years (range: 29–86). The most common symptoms were abdominal pain in 112 (78%) patients. The most common site was body in 81 (57%) patients. Common site of metastasis was peritoneum in 86 (60%) and liver in (62%). Seventy-one (50%) patients were eligible for survival analysis. Common chemotherapy regimens were capecitabine-cisplatin in 27 (38%) and EOX in 22 (31%) patients. Survival status could not be assessed in 29 (41%) patients who lost to follow-up. After a median follow-up 9.7 months (range: 0.5–37.7), median progression-free survival (PFS) was 7.9 months (range: 0.5–23.9) and median overall survival (OS) was 12.2 months (range: 0.5–37.7). The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) ≥2 and the presence of linitis plastica showed a trend toward inferior PFS (P = 0.052 and 0.053, respectively) only in univariate analysis. Female sex and ECOG PS ≥2 predicted inferior OS in both univariate and multivariate analysis (P = 0.012, 0.02 and 0.03 and 0.05, respectively). Conclusions: Platinum-based doublet chemotherapy was used in the majority of patients. The overall outcome was comparable to that of the available literature. Female sex and ECOG PS ≥2 predicted the inferior outcome.
Efficacy and safety of nimotuzumab in unresectable, recurrent, and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: A hospital-based retrospective evidence
Authors: Subramanian Sundaram , Sridharan Nithya , Balasundaram V. , Chaudhari Sameer
Published: July 2018

Context: Role of nimotuzumab in locally advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) is well established in India; however, no clinical evidence is available for its role in recurrent and/or metastatic HNC. Aims: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of nimotuzumab when added to standard treatment in unresectable, recurrent, and metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) Settings and Design: Hospital records of 14 patients diagnosed with recurrent and/or metastatic HNC with histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma and being treated with nimotuzumab along with standard treatments from December 2010 to December 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. Subjects and Methods: The tumor response rate and overall survival (OS) were analyzed. Toxicity and adverse events (AEs) were assessed as per common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) v 4. Results: Oral cavity was most commonly involved region followed by hypopharynx and oropharynx. At 24 weeks after completion of treatment, overall response rate (complete response (CR) + partial response (PR)) was 75%. Survival rate at 1, 2, and 3 years was 77.80%, 64.81%, and 64.81%, respectively. At a median follow-up of 15.17 months, median OS was not reached. All AEs were either Grade I (66.7%) or Grade II (33.3%). No Grade III or Grade IV AEs were observed. No added toxicity was observed due to nimotuzumab. Conclusions: In the first of its kind study, the addition of nimotuzumab to standard treatment showed promising response rate as well as survival outcomes in recurrent and/or metastatic SCCHN patients without producing additional toxicity.
"Cien dibujos" de Pedro Muguruza Otaño
Authors: Castaño Perea Enrique
Published: July 2018

El legado de Pedro Muguruza, conservado en la Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, nos permiten tener otra visón de este arquitecto señalado por su vinculación con la dictadura. Pedro Muguruza destacó como gran dibujante, hay numerosas muestras y comentarios de sus contemporáneos que así lo recogen. Su habilidad y producción como dibujante la desarrolló durante toda su carrera y que le llevó incluso a la auto-publicación de su propio trabajo bajo la forma de un pequeño librito titulado “Cien Dibujos”. Este publicación es una muestra de sus propuestas e ideas más allá de su vida política y profesional, y nos permite resituar al dibujante Muguruza dentro de nuestro imaginario de la arquitectura española del siglo xx.
Restauración de la iglesia de San Pietro in Montorio de Roma
Authors: Bosch Reig Ignacio , Bosch Roig Luis , Marcenac Valeria , Slavador Lujén Nuria
Published: July 2018

La Iglesia de San Pietro in Montorio (1473-1500), se sitúa en el monte Gianicolo, en la propiedad del Estado Español, donde está la Real Academia de España. En sus 517 años de existencia, ha experimentado ampliaciones (capillas Piedad y Raimondi, siglo xvii), derrumbes parciales (bombardeo francés de 1849 y terremoto de Avezzano en 1915), que junto a su situación geo-hidrológica, ha supuesto la realización de inadecuadas actuaciones de refuerzo estructural durante el siglo xx, produciendo un importante estado actual de deterioro. El articulo, recoge la evolución histórico-constructiva, las indagaciones para conocer el estado actual de conservación y las causas de los daños, exponiendo las actuaciones proyectadas para dar respuesta adecuada a los problemas planteados, concretadas en: control geodésico de las deformaciones; control termohigrométrico y extensométrico; nueva estructura-cubierta flotante y flexible; desecación de muros con restauración de estucos y ornamentación; solución de acceso al campanario; accesibilidad peatonal a la Iglesia.
Espacio versus pintura mural: Felix Aublet y Robert Delaunay en el Pabellón del Aire de la Exposición Internacional de Paris, 1937
Authors: Moreno Moreno María Pura
Published: July 2018

Este artículo expone la vinculación entre arquitectura y pintura mural en el Pabellón del Aire de la Exposición Internacional de Artes y Técnicas de París, 1937. En su hall de entrada, conceptos como dinamismo y simultaneidad fueron trasladados a la concepción espacial por el grupo artístico Art et Lumière, dirigidos por el pintor Robert Delaunay y el arquitecto Felix Aublet. El deslumbramiento por los avances de la aerodinámica de aquel contexto histórico impulsó la traducción de lo pictórico a lo arquitectónico con el objetivo de abolir el espacio mensurable transformando su rol cartesiano en fenomenológico y favoreciendo la ubicuidad de la arquitectura.
Which type of instruction fosters chunk learning? Preliminary conclusions
Authors: Pérez Serrano Mercedes
Published: July 2018

Formulaic language learning has been shown to be problematic and slow in adult L2 learners. In this study, we test some of the recommendations of a lexical approach. We compare the results of the implementation of chunk attention-directing techniques and explicit exercises of previously selected chunks in 52 Spanish as a second language learners over a period of seven weeks. In light of the results obtained, we can conclude that (1) exposure to lexical chunks, chunk noticing in the input and explicit exercises contribute to the development of abilities in the active recognition of chunks, and (2) learning gains obtained through explicit exercises are significantly greater than those obtained through attention-directing techniques.
Exploring CLIL contribution towards the acquisition of cross-curricular competences: a comparative study on digital competence development in CLIL
Authors: Nieto Moreno de Diezmas Esther
Published: July 2018

This large-scale study compares the digital skills of CLIL and non-CLIL secondary students by means of two separate tests assessing ‘communicative digital competence’ (CLIL group, n=2,152, and non-CLIL group, n=18,093) and ‘informational digital competence’ (CLIL group, n=2,581, and non-CLIL group, n=17,553). The findings indicated that CLIL students showed significantly better digital skills than non-CLIL learners, particularly regarding communicative digital competence. This may suggest CLIL students are more familiar with the use of ICT, and that the communicative skills acquired by means of CLIL methodology based on communication, participation and interaction were transferred to digital environments. These outcomes reveal a new CLIL by-product as well as added value in a highly underexplored area in CLIL research: its effectiveness in the acquisition of key competences (in this case, digital competence), which are the major goals of compulsory education.
The effect of verbal feedback on biomechanical performance during swimming ergometry
Authors: Zatoń Krystyna , Cześniewicz Izabela , Szczepan Stefan
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The aim was to investigate the effects of verbal feedback on biomechanical performance variables during swimming ergometry.

Methods

The total of 100 healthy and physically active males (19.56 ± 1.32 years of age, 181.23 ± 4.35 cm in height, and 70.54 ± 8.6 kg in weight) participated in the study. The subjects were randomized into 2 groups (experimental and control); 2 sessions were administered. In the first session (pre-test), both groups completed the butterfly stroke on a swimming ergometer in identical conditions. In the second session (post-test), the experimental group received verbal instructions that conveyed kinaesthetic information. To rationalize verbal information, the criteria of efficient didactic communication were applied (syntax, semantics, and pragmatics). Biomechanical performance was monitored continuously by measuring work output (J), total force (N), power output (W), and total distance of hand travel (cm).

Results

Differences in the average values of the analysed variables between groups and samples were determined with a multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) (p < 0.05). The analysis of the results showed that the inclusion of verbal feedback resulted in statistically significant increases between pre- and post-test in all biomechanical variables in the experimental group, as well as in significant between-group differences post-test.

Conclusions

Appropriately prepared verbal cues following the criteria of efficient didactic communication may improve biomechanical performance during movement execution on a swimming ergometer.