bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Effects of Clinical Exam Room Design on Communication, Technology Interaction, and Satisfaction
Authors: Zamani Zahra , Harper Esperanza C.
Published: February 2019

Objective:

This article evaluates the effects of technology integration and design features in clinical exam rooms on examination experiences, communication, and satisfaction.

Background:

Exam room features can affect the delivery of patient-centered care and enhance the level of communication, which has been shown to directly impact clinical outcomes. Although there has been an increasing body of literature examining design and patient-centered care, little research has evaluated the extent to which information sharing and electronic health record (EHR) interaction are impacted.

Method:

The research randomly allocated 22 patients, 28 caregivers, and 59 clinicians to simulated clinical encounters in four exam room mock-ups with semi-inclusive, exclusive, and inclusive layouts (128 sessions in 32 scenarios). Video recordings of the simulations were coded for clinician gazing, talking, and EHR-interaction behaviors. Participants also completed surveys and answered open-ended questions after experiencing each scenario ( N = 362).

Results:

Semi-inclusive rooms with a triangular arrangement of consultation table, sharable screens, exam table, and caregiver chair were highly preferred as they supported conversation, gazing, and information sharing. The inclusive layout had higher durations of EHR interactions and enhanced viewing and sharing of EHR information. However, this layout was criticized for the lack of clinician-shared information. The exclusive layouts impeded information sharing, eye contact, and constrained simultaneous data entry and eye contact for clinicians. The distance and orientation between chair, exam table, curtain, and door were important for protecting patient and family comfort and privacy.

Conclusion:

Characteristics and configurations of design qualities and strategies have a key role on examination experiences, communication, and satisfaction.
Attenuation of lipopolysaccharide-induced lung inflammation by ascorbic acid in rats: Histopathological and ultrastructural study
Authors: Mohamed Hazem Abdelhamid , Elbastawisy Yasser M , Elsaed Wael M
Published: February 2019

Introduction:

Lipopolysaccharide is a bacterial endotoxin that induces acute lung injury in experimental animals, which is similar to acute respiratory distress syndrome in humans. The induced tissue trauma ends in fibrosis. Understanding the pathogenesis is important in the prevention and treatment of the complications. This study was assigned to investigate the long-term lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury and the postulated protective effect of ascorbic acid on these changes.

Materials and methods:

Twenty-four adult male albino rats were divided into three groups. Group I was the controls, group II received lipopolysaccharide and group III received lipopolysaccharide and ascorbic acid. After 30 days of starting treatment, lung tissue samples were obtained.

Results:

Group II lung tissues showed marked thickening of the alveolar septa with collapsed alveolar sacs, detached bronchial epithelium, inflammatory cell infiltration and excessive deposition of collagen. Group III showed mild thickening of the alveolar walls, scanty inflammatory cell infiltration, mild parabronchial fibrosis and less marked collagen deposition. α-Smooth muscle actin staining of group II showed marked expression of the actin-positive cells. Less potential expression of the dye was found in group III. Ultrastructural examination of group II showed evident structural changes in pneumocytes with capillary basement membrane irregularity and interruption compared to uniform basement membrane in group III with less prominent intracellular changes in pneumocytes.

Conclusion:

Ascorbic acid attenuated the inflammatory response and fibrosis in the lungs of rats treated with lipopolysaccharide as evidenced by the histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural studies.
A case of Staphylococcus lugdunensis bacteremia complicated by reactive arthritis
Authors: Gaut Daria , Muir Kyle , Pessegueiro Antonio M
Published: February 2019

Reactive arthritis has been described infrequently in association with staphylococcal infections, both those secondary to Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci. We present a case of a 51-year-old male undergoing chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer who presented with joint pain and fevers and was found to have Staphylococcus lugdunensis bacteremia. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiograms were negative for endocarditis. Arthrocentesis from one large joint revealed culture-negative inflammatory synovitis. This case illustrates that a possible systemic manifestation of Staphylococcus lugdunensis bacteremia, in addition to the more common endocarditis, can also include reactive arthritis.
A rare case of perivascular epithelioid cell tumour metastases to the brain
Authors: Jayapalan Ronie Romelean , Bahuri Nor Faizal Ahmad , Mun Kein Seong , Narayanan Vairavan
Published: February 2019

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumour is a rare mesenchymal tumour with distinct immunohistochemical profile. While it is known to occur in various anatomical sites, the central nervous system had always been a protected site for primary or secondary perivascular epithelioid cell tumours. We describe a 61-year-old lady who presented with symptoms of raised intracranial pressure, 3 months after the resection of duodenal and thoracic tumours which were histologically consistent with perivascular epithelioid cell tumour. She was investigated and then subsequently subjected to resection of two metastatic intracranial lesions. The radiological, intraoperative as well as histopathological findings of the metastatic lesions are discussed. Metastatic perivascular epithelioid cell tumour of the brain is extremely rare. However, patients who are stratified as high risk for recurrence or metastases should undergo an early magnetic resonance imaging/computed tomography of the brain in addition to a whole-body positron emission tomography scan, to allow for early detection and management of these tumours.
The optical unconscious of Big Data: Datafication of vision and care for unknown futures
Authors: Agostinho Daniela
Published: February 2019

Ever since Big Data became a mot du jour across social fields, optical metaphors such as the microscope began to surface in popular discourse to describe and qualify its epistemological impact. While the persistence of optics seems to be at odds with the datafication of vision, this article suggests that the optical metaphor offers an opportunity to reflect about the material consequences of the modes of seeing and knowing that currently shape datafied worlds. Drawing on feminist new materialism, the article investigates the optical metaphor as a material-discursive practice that actively constitutes the world, as metaphors imply modes of thinking, knowing and doing that have material enactions. Expanding visual culture theories, the notion of ‘optical unconscious’ is taken up to discuss the tensions between displacement and persistence of optics within datafied worlds, that is, how optical vision is displaced but also mobilised and repurposed by data-driven knowledge. In dialogue with feminist science and technology studies and speculative ethics, I suggest that the datafication of vision offers a chance to reconceptualize the sense of sight towards a sensorial engagement with Big Data premised on responsibility, care, and an ethics of unknowability. Within this framework, vision may be conceived differently, perhaps not only as enhancement and control, but as generator of new possibilities. Ultimately, the article proposes that the visual theories after which Big Data is being imagined matter not only for our understanding of Big Data's epistemic potential, but also for the possibility of shaping emerging data worlds.
Bone marrow fibrosis associated with long-term imatinib therapy: resolution after switching to a second-generation TKI
Authors: Shanmuganathan Naranie , Branford Susan , Hughes Timothy P. , Hiwase Devendra
Published: February 2019

Key Points

Bone marrow fibrosis may be a late reversible toxicity of high-dose imatinib therapy in chronic myeloid leukemia.
Independent component analysis for reservoir geomorphology and unsupervised seismic facies classification in the Taranaki Basin, New Zealand
Authors: Lubo-Robles David , Marfurt Kurt J.
Published: February 2019

During the past two decades, the number of volumetric seismic attributes has increased to the point at which interpreters are overwhelmed and cannot analyze all of the information that is available. Principal component analysis (PCA) is one of the best-known multivariate analysis techniques that decompose the input data into second-order statistics by maximizing the variance, thus obtaining mathematically uncorrelated components. Unfortunately, projecting the information in the multiple input data volumes onto an orthogonal basis often mixes rather than separates geologic features of interest. To address this issue, we have implemented and evaluated a relatively new unsupervised multiattribute analysis technique called independent component analysis (ICA), which is based on higher order statistics. We evaluate our algorithm to study the internal architecture of turbiditic channel complexes present in the Moki A sands Formation, Taranaki Basin, New Zealand. We input 12 spectral magnitude components ranging from 25 to 80 Hz into the ICA algorithm and we plot 3 of the resulting independent components against a red-green-blue color scheme to generate a single volume in which the colored independent components correspond to different seismic facies. The results obtained using ICA proved to be superior to those obtained using PCA. Specifically, ICA provides improved resolution and separates geologic features from noise. Moreover, with ICA, we can geologically analyze the different seismic facies and relate them to sand- and mud-prone seismic facies associated with axial and off-axis deposition and cut-and-fill architectures.
Monitoring horizontal well hydraulic stimulations and geomechanical deformation processes in the unconventional shales of the Midland Basin using fiber-based time-lapse VSPs, microseismic, and strain data
Authors: Hull Robert , Meek Robert , Bello Hector , Woller Kevin , Wagner Jed
Published: February 2019

A variety of methods are utilized in an instrumented vertical wellbore to invert for and estimate the heights and lateral extents of the hydraulic fracture treatment. Data were acquired with externally mounted dual- and single-mode fiber optics for measuring strain, acoustics, and temperature. In addition, external pressure gauges, internal conventional tiltmeters, and geophones were also utilized. This instrumented well was used multiple times to record a number of nearby offset horizontal hydraulic stimulations and to record a time-lapse vertical seismic profile. By using multiple data acquisition techniques, we obtained a more comprehensive and accurate estimation of the hydraulic fracture geometry and the dynamic processes taking place internal to the propagating fractures. Furthermore, these data could be used to calibrate fracture models and the fracture interaction with the surrounding unconventional reservoir.
Gerenciamento além dos Lucros: Controle Contábil em uma entidade sem fins lucrativos
Authors: Neves Fabrício Ramos , Carvalho Jaqueline Souza , Vieira Fabrícia Da Cruz
Published: February 2019

Mesmo voltadas para o social, empresas do Terceiro Setor possuem processos que precisam de controle e divulgação a seus diversos interessados, e a contabilidade é uma das ferramentas que contribuem para uma ação positiva perante a sociedade. O objetivo do artigo é identificar se os processos contábeis da entidade estão alinhados às Normas Brasileiras de Contabilidade Aplicadas ao Terceiro Setor - ITG 2002. Foi realizada pesquisa exploratória e descritiva por meio de entrevista semiestruturada com os administradores da organização, além de análise de conteúdo de documentos da organização. Mesmo mencionados como importantes pelos gestores, observou-se que eles não têm conhecimento total sobre as demonstrações contábeis no gerenciamento da entidade. Ficaram evidenciadas inconsistências de algumas operações e uso restrito dos demonstrativos, usados cerimonialmente para exigências legais. Concluiu-se que os relatórios de cunho financeiro são os de maior entendimento dos administradores, enquanto que as demonstrações contábeis se apresentam em um grau de compreensão inferior, sendo relegados, o que implica na falta de utilização da informação contábil no processo de gerenciamento da entidade.
Case Report: Myocarditis along with fulminant hepatic failure secondary to acute hepatitis E infection
Authors: Rai Lajpat , Salam Osama , Yaqoob Uzair , Zubair Ujala
Published: February 2019

Myocarditis, defined as the inflammation of myocardial tissue has many causes which may be viral, metabolic or bacterial in origin. In this case we report a patient aged 22 years who was admitted with presenting complains of loss of consciousness, generalized muscle rigidity and yellowish discoloration of skin. During the course of his hospital stay, patient developed signs of

myocarditis and later died of hypotensive shock. Viral serology was positive for the presence of hepatitis E virus (HEV), a rare cause of myocarditis. HEV infection can range from asymptomatic disease course to fulminant hepatitis but in rare cases it has been found to be a cause of myocarditis. This is so far the sixth case of hepatitis E induced myocarditis.
Deep clinical and biological phenotyping of the preterm birth and small for gestational age syndromes: The INTERBIO-21st Newborn Case-Control Study protocol
Authors: Kennedy Stephen H. , Victora Cesar G. , Craik Rachel , Ash Stephen , Barros Fernando C. , Barsosio Hellen C. , Berkley James A. , Carvalho Maria , Fernandes Michelle , Cheikh Ismail Leila , Lambert Ann , Lindgren Cecilia M. , McGready Rose , Munim Shama , Nellåker Christoffer , Noble Julia A. , Norris Shane A. , Nosten Francois , Ohuma Eric O. , Papageorghiou Aris T. , Stein Alan , Stones William , Tshivuila-Matala Chrystelle O.O. , Staines Urias Eleonora , Vatish Manu , Wulff Katharina , Zainab Ghulam , Zondervan Krina T. , Uauy Ricardo , Bhutta Zulfiqar A. , Villar José
Published: February 2019

Background: INTERBIO-21st is Phase II of the INTERGROWTH-21st Project, the population-based, research initiative involving nearly 70,000 mothers and babies worldwide coordinated by Oxford University and performed by a multidisciplinary network of more than 400 healthcare professionals and scientists from 35 institutions in 21 countries worldwide. Phase I, conducted 2008-2015, consisted of nine complementary studies designed to describe optimal human growth and neurodevelopment, based conceptually on the WHO prescriptive approach. The studies generated a set of international standards for monitoring growth and neurodevelopment, which complement the existing WHO Child Growth Standards. Phase II aims to improve the functional classification of the highly heterogenous preterm birth and fetal growth restriction syndromes through a better understanding of how environmental exposures, clinical conditions and nutrition influence patterns of human growth from conception to childhood, as well as specific neurodevelopmental domains and associated behaviors at 2 years of age.

Methods: In the INTERBIO-21st Newborn Case-Control Study, a major component of Phase II, our objective is to investigate the mechanisms potentially responsible for preterm birth and small for gestational age and their interactions, using deep phenotyping of clinical, growth and epidemiological data and associated nutritional, biochemical, omic and histological profiles. Here we describe the study sites, population characteristics, study design, methodology and standardization procedures for the collection of longitudinal clinical data and biological samples (maternal blood, umbilical cord blood, placental tissue, maternal feces and infant buccal swabs) for the study that was conducted between 2012 and 2018 in Brazil, Kenya, Pakistan, South Africa, Thailand and the UK.

Discussion: Our study provides a unique resource for the planned analyses given the range of potentially disadvantageous exposures (including poor nutrition, pregnancy complications and infections) in geographically diverse populations worldwide. The study should enhance current medical knowledge and provide new insights into environmental influences on human growth and neurodevelopment.
Facility conditions, obstetric and neonatal care practices, and availability of emergency obstetric and neonatal care in 72 rural health facilities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Carter Rebecca , Xiong Xu , Lusamba-Dikassa Paul-Samson , Kuburhanwa Elvis C. , Kimanuka Francine , Salumu Freddy , Clarysse Guy , Tutu Baudouin Kalume , Yuma Sylvain , Iyeti Alain Mboko , Hernandez Julie H. , Shaffer Jeffrey G. , Bertrand Jane T. , Villeneuve Susie , Prual Alain , Pyne-Mercier Lee , Nigussie Assaye , Buekens Pierre
Published: February 2019

Background: Current facility conditions, obstetric and neonatal care practices, and availability of emergency obstetric and neonatal care (EmONC) were assessed in the Kwango and Kwilu provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Methods: This is an analysis of the baseline survey data from an ongoing clinical mentoring program among 72 rural health facilities in the DRC. Data collectors visited each of the facilities and collected data through a pre-programmed smartphone. Frequencies of selected indicators were calculated by province and facility type—general referral hospital (GRH) and primary health centers (HC).

Results: Facility conditions varied across province and facility type. Maternity wards and delivery rooms were available in the highest frequency of rooms assessed (>95% of all facilities). Drinking water was available in 25.0% of all facilities; electricity was available in 49.2% of labor rooms and 67.6% of delivery rooms in all facilities. Antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care services were available but varied across facilities. While the proportion of blood pressure measured during antenatal care was high (94.9%), the antenatal screening rate for proteinuria was low (14.7%). The use of uterotonics immediately after birth was observed in high numbers across both provinces (94.4% in Kwango and 75.6% in Kwilu) and facility type (91.3% in GRH and 81.4% in HC). The provision of immediate postnatal care to mothers every 15 minutes was provided in less than 50% of all facilities. GRH facilities generally had higher frequencies of available equipment and more services available than HC. GRH facilities provided an average of 6 EmONC signal functions (range: 2-9).

Conclusions: Despite poor facility conditions and a lack of supplies, GRH and HC facilities were able to provide EmONC care in rural DRC. These findings could guide the provision of essential needs to the health facilities for better delivery of maternal and neonatal care.
Entomological determinants of malaria transmission in Kayin state, Eastern Myanmar: A 24-month longitudinal study in four villages
Authors: Chaumeau Victor , Fustec Bénédicte , Nay Hsel Saw , Montazeau Céline , Naw Nyo Saw , Metaane Selma , Sawasdichai Sunisa , Kittiphanakun Prapan , Phatharakokordbun Phabele , Kwansomboon Nittipha , Andolina Chiara , Cerqueira Dominique , Chareonviriyaphap Theeraphap , Nosten François H. , Corbel Vincent
Published: February 2019

Background: The Thailand-Myanmar borderland is an area endemic for malaria where transmission is low, seasonal and unstable. The epidemiology has been described but there is relatively few data on the entomological determinants of malaria transmission.

Methods: Entomological investigations were conducted during 24 months in four villages located in Kayin state, on the Myanmar side of the Thailand-Myanmar border. Anopheles mosquitoes were identified by morphology, and molecular assays were used in order to discriminate between closely related sibling species of malaria vectors. Plasmodium infection rate was determined using quantitative real-time PCR.

Results: The diversity of Anopheles mosquitoes was very high and multiple species were identified as malaria vectors. The intensity of human-vector contact (mean human-biting rate= 369 bites/person/month) compensates for the low infection rate in naturally infected populations of malaria vectors (mean sporozoite index= 0.04 and 0.17 % for P. falciparum and P. vivax respectively), yielding intermediary level of transmission intensity (mean entomological inoculation rate= 0.13 and 0.64 infective bites/person/month for P. falciparum and P. vivax, respectively). Only 36% of the infected mosquitoes were collected indoors between 09:00 pm and 05:00 am, suggesting that mosquito bed-nets would fail to prevent most of the infective bites in the study area.

Conclusion: This study provided a unique opportunity to describe the entomology of malaria in low transmission settings of Southeast Asia. Our data are important in the context of malaria elimination in the Greater Mekong Subregion.
Protection of Spermatogenesis with Β-Carothin in Radiation Exposure. Message 2: Carotenoid Enrichment of Diet with Single Acute External γ-Irradiation
Authors: Беляев И. , Belyaev I.
Published: February 2019

Purpose: Experimental evaluation of the efficiency of β-carotene by single acute γ-irradiation of spermatogenesis correction radiation-induced disorders in males (♂) of Wistar rats during prolonged carotenoid enrichment of a diet. Material and methods: Single external gamma irradiation ♂ was performed at the IGUR facility (137Cs, dose rate 0.029 Gy/s). The carotenoid used up on feeding ♂ in a mixture with cottage cheese for 2 months before irradiation, then – throughout the study period three times a week. During the days that ♂ were in cells with intact ♀ β-carotene was administered ♂ orally by a probe in the form of a suspension in vegetable oil. The damage and effectiveness of protection of spermatogenesis of irradiated ♂ were judged by the state of their reproductive function. Results: β-carotene in intact ♂ rats reduced the overall, pre- and postimplantation embryonic mortality, respectively, from 29 to 14, from 22 to 9, and from 10 to 5 %. At the stage of mature sperm following irradiation ♂ dose of 3 Gy – total and pre-implantation mortality from 45 to 29, and from 23 to 9 %. After irradiation at a dose of 5 Gy – total, an pre- and postimplantation induced embryonic death, respectively, from 67 to 56, from 23 to 13 % and from 56 to 43 %. At the stage of spermatids after irradiation in dose 1 Gy – pre-implantation mortality from 23 to 9 %; in the dose of 3 Gy – the number of dead embryos in pregnant ♀ from 12 to 3; at a dose of 5 Gy total embryonic mortality from 57 to 49 %. Carotenoid enrichment of a diet of ♂ irradiated at doses of 3 and 5 Gy, has not corrective impact on the state indicators of their reproductive function, evaluated at fertilization of ♀ sperm irradiated at the stage of spermatocyte. At the stage of spermatogonia after irradiation at a dose of 3 Gy β-carotene increased fertility of ♂ 7 to 12 living embryos and reduced the overall, before – induced postimplantation mortality, respectively, with 63 and 43, from 42 to 25 and from 35 to 19 %. No statistically significant effect of β-carotene on the weight loss of the gonads irradiated ♂ was revealed. Compared to short-term regimen, long-term enrichment of a diet of irradiated ♂ β-carotene more effectively reduced embryonic mortality of their offspring. Conclusions: Correction effects of β-carotene enrichment of the diet in radiation-induced disturbances by single acute external γ-irradiation at doses of 3 and 5 Gy of spermatogenesis in Wistar rats at stages of mature spermatozoa, spermatids and spermatogonia have been established.
The Reproductive Health of Male Staff of the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Петоян И. , Petoyan I. , Лягинская А. , Lyaginskaya A. , Ермалицкий А. , Ermalitskiy A. , Купцов В. , Kuptsov V. , Карелина Н. , Karelina N. , Цовьянов А. , Tsoviyanov A. , Самойлов А. , Samoylov A.
Published: February 2019

Purpose: To assess the reproductive health of male staff in the main departments of the Kursk nuclear power plant (NPP).

Material and methods: The fertility and health of newborns were investigated. Data on marital status of 626 men of the staff and data about 813 newborns in families of male staff were analyzed. In the control group the data on the health status of newborns and pregnant groups of the population of Kurchatov city was used. Sources of information on doses to the personnel were the forms of a single system for monitoring and recording individual doses of radiation № 1-DOS “Information on the doses to persons in the conditions of normal operation of technogenic sources of ionizing radiation”.

Results: Total occupational doses to the end of the main reproductive period (20–40 years) did not exceed 210 mSv, which is significantly below the threshold for temporary sterility during long-term irradiation (400 mSv/year, ICRP). Cases of infertile marriages in the families of the men of the staff (0.17 %) are below the estimation of the frequency of male infertility in Russia (1–2 %).

Infant health in families of male staff and in the control group had no differences. The frequency of birth of health children was 65.3 % in families of male staff and 66.0 % for the control group. Frequency of birth of children with malformations was 35.7±6.5 per 1,000 live births and statistically (p = 0.84) did not differ from the frequency in the control group (37.4±5.3 per 1,000 live births) and was below the level adopted by the ICRP to calculate the radiation genetic risk (60 per 1,000 live births). There were no differences influenced by mother factors (age, diseases and complications during pregnancy) on fetal development and newborn health in families of the staff and control group.

According to the calculations, the total occupational doses to men before the conception of children for more than 98 % of cases did not exceed 100 mSv, i.e. it was below the doses (>100 mSv), for which the genetic effects were observed in the number of epidemiological studies. However, it should be noted that 25.6 % of childbirth were in families, where men were older than 30 years, i.e. at the age, which is not subject to the additional job restrictions under the planned increased exposure.

Conclusions: The impact of occupational exposure on the reproductive health status of men staff of the Kursk NPP was not identified.
Possible Criteria of the Diagnosis of Occupational Lung Cancer in Workers of Uranium Mines
Authors: Галстян И. , Galstyan I. , Кретов А. , Kretov A. , Мерзликин Л. , Merzlikin L. , Власова И. , Vlasova I. , Бушманов Андрей , Bushmanov Andrey , Удалов Ю. , Udalov Yu.
Published: February 2019

Purpose: Search of possible criteria of the diagnosis of occupational lung cancer in workers of uranium mines on the basis of the analysis of literary data.

Material and methods: The analysis of literary data with the purpose of allocation of possible criteria and their use for the diagnosis of occupational lung cancer at 6 employees of uranium mines.

Results: The following criteria for the diagnosis of occupationally caused lung cancer at workers of uranium mines are marked out:

• Total effective dose of radiation exposure is more 200–250 mSv (40–50 WLM).

• Period in underground conditions is not less than 10 years.

• Dust content in a workplace is more than 1 mg/m3.

• Hygienic assessment of working conditions – the 3rd class, 3.2–3.4 degree.

• The latent period of development of a tumor is not less 10 years.

• Development of primary and multiple synchronous or metachronous lung cancer.

Also the diagnosis of occupational lung cancer the pulmonary anamnesis (frequent bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis of the smoker) has to be considered.

On the basis of the marked-out criteria documents of 6 employees of uranium mines, at which lung cancer has been revealed, are considered. On the basis of the carried-out analysis at 5 patients relation of a disease with professional activity has been established. One patient was denied this relation.

Conclusion: Authors offer this expert approach to experts’ discussion as above-mentioned criteria is planned to be used by the pathologists who are carrying out observation of workers of uranium production and for the solution of questions of relation of a disease with professional activity of the patient.
Radiation Dose Reduction in Pediatric Computed Tomography
Authors: Хасанова К. , Khasanova K. , Тюрин И. , Tyurin I. , Рыжов С. , Ryzhov S. , Кижаев Е. , Kizhaev E.
Published: February 2019

Purpose: To optimize the computed tomography protocol in pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma for radiation dose reduction by reducing the scanning phases.

Material and methods: A retrospective CT scan analysis of 48 children with newly diagnosed, verified Hodgkin’s lymphoma was performed at the primary staging and after the first chemotherapy. All studies were performed with contrast enhancement, scanning on a 16-slice computed tomography in the precontrast, arterial, venous and delayed phases. The radiation dose and the diagnostic value of each phase were assessed.

Results: Two-phase scanning (in the native and venous phases) for primary patients allows significantly reduce the cumulative effective dose (ED) almost in twofold. Conducting single-phase scanning can significantly reduce the received ED by 3.8 times in both the primary and dynamic studies. Using the abbreviated protocol does not reduce the diagnostic value of CT.

Conclusion: The greatest number of repeated CT examination is carried out in children with lymphomas. The radiation dose increases several times in multiphase scanning. New CT protocols reduces the radiation dose on children with Hodgkin lymphoma.
Dosimetric Evaluation for Various Methods of Combined Radiotherapy of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Сухих Е. , Sukhikh E. , Сухих Л. , Sukhikh L. , Аникеева О. , Anikeeva O. , Ижевский П. , Izhevsky P. , Шейно И. , Sheino I.
Published: February 2019

Purpose: Carrying out dosimetric investigation of possibility to replace a traditional combined radiation therapy of cervical cancer by combinations only external irradiation, without change of total course dose and number of fractions. Material and Methods: Eleven patients with a diagnosis of cervical cancer (stages T2bNxM0 and T3NxM0) who received a course of combined radiotherapy (CRT) have been considered in this study. The combination of dose delivery techniques 3D-CRT + high dose rate brachytherapy (HDR) was used as a basic one. The following fractionation regimes for CRT were simulated: external beam RT (EBRT) of the first stage – total dose 50 Gy and fraction dose 2 Gy (25 fractions), the second stage – total dose 28 Gy and fraction dose 7 Gy (4 fractions). Total CRT course dose was 89.7 Gy EQD2. Dosimetric planning of EBRT using conventional radiography and 3D-CRT has been carried out using XIO dosimetry planning system. Dosimetric planning of first-stage EBRT and second-stage EBRT using the VMAT technique has been performed in the Monaco dosimetry planning system. HDR of the second stage has been planned using the HDRplus dosimetric planning system for the Multisource HDR unit with a 60Co source. Results: Coverage of the clinical volume of the tumor using HDR, on average, was equal to 95 % of the prescribed dose at 91.8 % of the volume, 110 % of the dose – 75.7 % of the volume. 60Co + VMAT results in the coverage level 95 % of the dose at 97.1 % of the volume and 110 % of the dose at 2.1 % of the volume. 3D-CRT + VMAT provide the coverage level of 95 % of the dose at 98 % of the volume and 110 % of the dose at 2.6 % of the volume. Using the combination VMAT + VMAT allows achieving the average coverage of the target at the level of 98 % of the dose at 97 % of the volume, 110 % of the dose at 8.8 % of the volume. The maximum dose per volume of the organs at risk equal to 2 cm3 did not exceed their tolerant levels both for the bladder and for the rectum. Conclusion: At present, there is a technical possibility to replace the second stage of CRT cervical cancer by EBRT using the VMAT technique. Implementation of the VMAT technique allows to increase the uniformity of irradiated volume coverage comparing with traditional HDR. While using VMAT technique the tolerant levels of organs at risk are not exceeded.
Research of 131Cs Radionuclide Production for Brachytherapy with Photonuclear Method
Authors: Белоусов А. , Belousov A. , Желтоножская М. , Zheltonozhskaya M.
Published: February 2019

Purpose: Currently a brachytherapy method with 125I received widespread acceptance in the treatment of prostate cancer. However, since 2003, 131Cs radio-implants have been approved for clinical use in the treatment of this type of cancer. To investigate alternative 131Cs receiving channels using electron accelerators and to evaluate the effectiveness of this method for its use in brachytherapy.

Material and methods: To study alternative channels for the 131Cs production using electron accelerators and to evaluate the efficiency of this method, we irradiated the natural cesium target (0.35 g) on a pulsed microtron with an electron energy of 55 MeV, an average amperage of 40–45 nA during 80 min.

Results: The 131Cs activity in the irradiated sample was 12.2 ± 1.0 μCi at the end of irradiation.

Conclusion: In brachytherapy, 10 to 60 micro-sources are usually used to treat a patient. The activity of one therapeutic micro source is 131Cs of the order of 10–3 Ci. Thus, the development of the required amount becomes possible when using electron accelerators with currents of the order of 50 mA. In the future it is also necessary to investigate 131Cs in the electron energy range 30–45 MeV for choosing the optimal irradiation regime.
Educational Internet-Resources for Training of Radiologist
Authors: Маткевич Е. , Matkevich E. , Синицын В. , Sinitsyn V. , Иванов Иван , Ivanov Ivan
Published: February 2019

The analysis and systematization of the main directions of the Internet resources used in the training of highly qualified personnel in the system of higher medical education designed for ensuring the competency approach and the success of training medical doctors in the specialty «Roentgenology».
The Role of SPECT/CT and MRI in the Differential Diagnosis of Skeletal Damage (Case Report)
Authors: Крылов А. , Krylov A. , Рыжков А. , Ryzhkov A. , Щипахина Я. , Schipahina Ya. , Неред А. , Nered A. , Блудов А. , Bludov A. , Ширяев С. , Shiryaev S.
Published: February 2019

This article reveals a clinical case dedicated to a young woman, professional athlete, who made an appointment at NN Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center for differential diagnostics of left tibia bone lesion, diagnosed by local health facilities. There were no patient complaints during routine check-up. Oncologist made an appointment for bone scan and second opinion on CT scan (was also made). Incidental findings on scintigraphy required further investigation. So a decision to perform a hybrid SPECT/CT of pelvis, MRI of pelvis and left talocrural joint was made. After complete examination non-osteogenic fibroma of left tibia bone was set as diagnose. Also there were several unexpected findings such as stress fracture of the navicular bone of the left foot, prevalent fracture of the left ischium without signs of consolidation and with the formation (developing) of a false joint and heterotopic ossification in soft tissues and ankylosis of the intervertebral joint L5/S1. This findings more likely to be posttraumatic complications.
Slot-Radiography. New Possibilities of Radiation Diagnostics
Authors: Левитов А. , Levitov A. , Дога В. , Doga V. , Белицкая Г. , Belitskaya G.
Published: February 2019

Slot-radiography is an x-ray examination in which a two-dimensional radiography with a straight beam and further computer stitching of the images obtained on the workstation during a single-pass of x-ray tube over a patient. The application of innovative techniques for image acquisition and processing in combination with a large-area flat panel detector (FPD) makes it possible to produce long-view images from one to several anatomical regions. During the investigation, the x-ray tube and the FPD move simultaneously at a constant speed in parallel relative to one another with the longitudinal axis of the body. Thus, it makes possible to obtain images with little distortion and processed images without visual defects. And this allows conducting more accurate diagnosis of pathological changes. Slot-radiography can be performed both in the patient’s standing position and lying down depending on the region of interest and tasks. It is possible to obtain images in both a frontal and a lateral projection without loss of quality.

Slot-radiography is effectively used to diagnose pathological changes in joints and spine, including scoliosis, limb shortening, segmental spinal instability, pathology of lower limb veins, and also as a method for assessing the quality of the treatment. This technique is characterized by safety and convenience for the patient: minimal time costs and low radiation exposure.

The application of this technique significantly increases the informative value of the x-ray examination, brings it to a qualitatively new level, providing a physician with a wide range of diagnostic possibilities.
Radiation Examination of Newborns with General Therapeutic Hypothermia
Authors: Воротынцева Н. , Vorotynceva N. , Орлова В. , Orlova V.
Published: February 2019

Purpose: Search of possible criteria of the diagnosis of occupational lung cancer in workers of uranium mines on the basis of the analysis of literary data.

Material and methods: The analysis of literary data with the purpose of allocation of possible criteria and their use for the diagnosis of occupational lung cancer at 6 employees of uranium mines.

Results: The following criteria for the diagnosis of occupationally caused lung cancer at workers of uranium mines are marked out:

• Total effective dose of radiation exposure is more 200–250 mSv (40–50 WLM).

• Period in underground conditions is not less than 10 years.

• Dust content in a workplace is more than 1 mg/m3.

• Hygienic assessment of working conditions – the 3rd class, 3.2–3.4 degree.

• The latent period of development of a tumor is not less 10 years.

• Development of primary and multiple synchronous or metachronous lung cancer.

Also the diagnosis of occupational lung cancer the pulmonary anamnesis (frequent bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis of the smoker) has to be considered.

On the basis of the marked-out criteria documents of 6 employees of uranium mines, at which lung cancer has been revealed, are considered. On the basis of the carried-out analysis at 5 patients relation of a disease with professional activity has been established. One patient was denied this relation.

Conclusion: Authors offer this expert approach to experts’ discussion as above-mentioned criteria is planned to be used by the pathologists who are carrying out observation of workers of uranium production and for the solution of questions of relation of a disease with professional activity of the patient.
Augustan Poets on the Roman-Parthian Treaty of 20 BC
Authors: Babnis Tomasz
Published: February 2019

From the moment Rome established contacts with the Parthian empire in the 1st century BC, its relations with the eastern neighbour became one of the most important points of Roman foreign policy. Attempts to subjugate Parthia ended in Rome’s crushing defeat at Carrhae in 53 BC. Having taken over power in the Roman Republic, Octavian Augustus became much more active in his oriental  policy, wishing to erase the shame brought upon Rome by the defeat. The peace treaty signed in 20 BC was the Emperor’s diplomatic success and was presented as a great triumph by the Roman propaganda. In this paper, I analyse several frag-ments referring to this agreement in the works of the Augustan poets Horace, Propertius and Ovid. The works, written over almost three decades, present this event from various perspectives. On the one hand, they show a strong intermixture of politics and literature, and on the other hand, great talent and artistic skill of the poets writing creatively about issues which were current in Rome at the time.
"Akritas" – Nikos Kazantzakis' Little-Known Unrealized Epic Project
Authors: Bzinkowski Michał
Published: February 2019

Kazantzakis’ Odyssey – apart from the abundance of philosophical as well as ideological influences of many different sources which the writer tried to unify into a universal cosmotheory – constitutes a large-scale attempt by a Modern Greek writer to respond to Homeric epic. Yet, the author of Zorba the Greek sketched another epic composition that, according to his vision, aimed at reaching further than his magnum opus. His ambition was to encompass the long-lasting period between Ancient and Modern Greece, namely that of the Byzantine empire and its radiating influence on Greek consciousness and identity. He entitled his project Akritas, thus directly alluding to the only epic poem in Byzantine Greek literature, Digenes Akritas, and its protagonist as well as to acritic songs from Cyprus, where the latter’s name appears. In the present paper I would like to shed some light on Kazantzakis’ approach to Byzantium and its significance in defining the Greek identity through this unfinished sketch that the writer in fact never began.
The Rhetorical Structure of John Chrysostom's Seventh Homily on Philippians in Relation to the Kenosis Hymn
Authors: Latawiec Zofia
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this study is a description the rhetorical structure of John Chrysostom s seventh homily on Philippians in relation to the kenosis hymn. The analysis aims to identify and characterize individual structures within the homily. This is done with a view to highlighting the delibrate usage of rhetorical argument as an instrument for biblical text analysis in the construction of Chrysostom s sermon. The study includes two sections. The first one is a theoretical introduction to St. John s style, followed by investigation into the origin of the homily. The subject matter of Chrysostom s work is also discussed. The second part of the article is a thorough description of the structure of John s text. The chapter is a detailed and systematic analysis of elements showcasing the author s rhetorical skills.
Passing on Wisdom: Plato on Wisdom and Memory
Authors: Amat Obryk Matylda
Published: February 2019

By means of an analysis of the tension between orality and literacy the following paper tries to discover how Plato understood the task of transmit­ting wisdom. Considering his vehement critique both of poetry and of writing, a sharper understanding of the nature of Platonic wisdom came about. Wisdom seems to be beyond all appearances and can be achieved only through dialogue within meaningful relationships.
Les incrustations antiques dans le roman d’Anatole France "Les dieux ont soif"
Authors: Rucińska Anna
Published: February 2019

Le présent article propose une analyse comparative de quelques références à l’antique dans deux traductions polonaises du roman Les Dieux ont soif écrit par l’un des nobélistes français. En s’appuyant sur cette analyse l’auteure tire des conclusions permettant de dresser le portrait – avant tout au niveau de la formation - du lecteur modèle créé par l’écrivain et deux traducteurs polonais.
The "Orationes" of Gregory of Nazianzus in the Byzantine Romance "Barlaam and Ioasaph"
Authors: Samoń Magdalena
Published: February 2019

The Byzantine romance Barlaam and Ioasaph relating the conversion to Christianity of an Indian Prince, modelled on the life of Buddha, was very popu­lar in the Middle Ages and later, for several centuries, but today is known to few people. Discussion of authorship and time of its composition, started by Hermann Zotenberg in the 1880s, has continued until today, without satisfactory conclu­sions. He cast doubt on the commonly held hypothesis that the work was written by St. John of Damascus. One of the main arguments adduced by the supporters of this thesis was presence in the romance of multiple passages from works by Greg­ory of Nazianzus, who St. John used to quote often. In this article I analyse the fragments of his Orationes which can be recognised in the text of Chapter XXIV, seeking answer to the question of how great was the dependence of its author (or editor) on this father of the Church and how his writings were used.
The Stylistic Category of Clarity (Σαφήνεια, Explanatio, Perspicuitas, Claritas) in the Eyes of Greek and Roman Writers
Authors: Styka Jerzy
Published: February 2019

The concept of clarity and the closely related idea of colour were of great importance not only for the formulation of classical ideas connected with the theory of beaux arts, but also for the creation of concepts related to the an­cient academic and philosophical discourse, mainly via the use of light/shadow/colour metaphors to express and envisage the problems discussed. These were of special importance for what is commonly referred to as ancient literary aesthet­ics, which is the product of ideas originating in classical philosophical literary theory, practice and critique. It is to this very area of aesthetic and literary mean­ings of clarity that I would like to devote the present paper. However, the bulk of preserved testimonies, both direct (i.e. directly and normatively formulated) and indirect (i.e. resulting from the immanent poetics of the work), as well as the fact that they are multi-layered, compel me to narrow my analysis to the concept of clarity (σαφήνεια, claritas) as a stylistic category in ancient rhetoric and poetics, based exclusively on concepts expressed by classical Greek and Latin authors.
Self-Rapists, Adulterers and Unrelenting Inquisitors – How Bogusław Butrymowicz and Edmund Cięglewicz Introduced Aristophanic Comedy into Polish Reading Culture
Authors: Śmiechowicz Olga
Published: February 2019

In this article, I would like to reflect on the question of the introduction of Old Attic comedy to Polish reading culture. My main source for trying to recon­struct how Aristophanes’ comedies have been brought into Polish reading culture is the first “complete” translations produced at the beginning of the 20th century by Bogusław Butrymowicz and Edmund Cięglewicz. We are still in the period parallel to the Victorian era in England, so we can apparently predict, before even getting down to reading, what both the authors’ translation strategies may look like, es­pecially in the face of Aristophanes’ prolific sexual innuendos. It turns out, how­ever, that each of the authors being reviewed by me somehow tried to pick up the gauntlet which had been thrown down by the ancient playwright. Their courage to translate the original meanings without beating about the bush surprises us many a time, especially when we compare the Polish translations by them with those made into English by Benjamin Bickley Rogers, in the same period. Both Butrymowicz and Cięglewicz worked directly on the original Greek texts. Their prose translations released by the most popular publishers enabled outsiders to the small circle of ex­perts to read pieces of ancient literature. As for pupils, students, theatre directors and theatregoers, their first (and usually only) contact with Aristophanes was by reading those translations.