bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RESOURCES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT AND CAREER COUNSELING BASED ON ICT AND DISTANCE LEARNING TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: Zaguzina N. N. , Nevzorov B. P. , Bokov A. V.
Published: August 2016

The paper dwells upon the use of information and computer technologies in the maintenance and support of career guidance and professional self-determination for students with health disabilities; it determines the forms and methods of their application and peculiar features of the interaction of those involved in the psycho-pedagogical process.

The basis for physiological support of children with health disabilities is formed by the following principles, which take into consideration the psycho-pedagogical features of distance learning: (A) priority of the student’s independent work; (B) individual approach to learning; (C) motivating as basic learning environment; (D) connection between the learning process and the student’s life circumstances (“life knowledge”); (E) intensification of the training process (everyone has their own pace and rhythm); (F) polymodality, i. e. simultaneous mobilization of different ways of perception (auditory, visual, tactile); (G) flexibility and innovativeness; (H) emergency psychological help in acute situations of mental and emotional distress, and other structural and substantive changes of learning activities. The same principles are incorporated in the psycho-pedagogical support career guidance.

The paper shows that professional orientation of children with health disabilities should be implemented comprehensively, using a variety of information resources of the Internet: websites, educational portals, employment resources and test resources.

A wide and varied range of possibilities offered by ICT and distance learning technologies can be of significant assistance not only to specialists in the field of education, but also in such processes as vocational guidance and professional self-determination of children, formation of personal stability for students with learning disability, including permanent one.
AVALIAÇÃO MICROBIOLÓGICA E SENSORIAL DE DOCE EM PASTA ELABORADO COM SORO DE LEITE E PEDÚNCULO DO CAJU
Authors: De Abreu Costa Juliana , Dourado Rodrigues Aline Maria , Teixeira Oliveira Santos Julliet , Carreiro de Alencar Anatália , Martins Carneiro Pires Rosana , Gomes Pereira Nóbrega Maria Marlucia , Sanches Muratori Maria Christina
Published: August 2016

Objetivou-se elaborar um doce com diferentes concentrações de massa do pedúnculo do caju e soro de leite, e verificar sua microbiologia por seis meses e a sua aceitabilidade sensorial. Foram desenvolvidas quatro formulações com diferentes percentuais de massa e soro de leite. Realizou-se teste de análise de variância, one-way ANOVA, post hoc test Tukey e transferiu-se os dados para o programa estatístico Graph Pad Prism 5.01 e SPSS 19.0 para análise de regressão. Foram realizadas análises microbiológicas durante 180 dias de armazenamento e análise sensorial. Não foi verificado contagem significativa dos micro-organismos pesquisados. Constatou-se boa aceitabilidade das formulações F1 (0%) e F2 (10%) com índices superiores à 70% para todos os atributos investigados, e intenção de compra de 74,00% e 79,40%, respectivamente. Os atributos obtiveram escores entre 6,14 e 7,34, sendo a menor atribuída à textura da formulação com 30%, e a maior, para a aceitação global da formulação com 10% de massa do pedúnculo do caju. Na análise de regressão linear não foi observada significância estatística para todos os parâmetros. Não houve ocorrência significativa dos microrganismos pesquisados. O doce apresenta maiores porcentagens e índices de aceitabilidade nas formulações com 0% e 10% da massa do pedúnculo do caju.
EFICÁCIA IN VITRO DO ÓLEO ESSENCIAL DE CAPIM-LIMÃO (Cymbopogon flexuosus STEUD. WATS.) FRENTE A BACTÉRIAS ENTÉRICAS DE ORIGEM AVÍCOLA
Authors: Azevedo Izabela Lorena , Almeida Anna Christina de , Martins Ernane Ronie , Nogueira Wedson Carlos Lima , Faria Filho Daniel Emygdio de , Oliveira Stephanie Pedrosa , Prates João Paulo Bicalho , De Souza Cintya Neves
Published: August 2016

O uso de antimicrobianos como melhoradores de desempenho tem representado um risco à saúde pública devido à associação destes com o surgimento de resistência bacteriana e resíduos nos produtos. Como alternativa, pesquisas têm indicado a utilização de aditivos alimentares naturais, como o óleo essencial de capimlimão. Objetivou-se neste artigo avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana do óleo essencial de capim-limão (Cymbopogon flexuosus) frente a Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli entéricas isoladas de aves de postura (Gallus gallus domesticus). Foram preparadas cinco concentrações do óleo essencial (160; 80; 40; 20 e 10 µL mL-1) e então realizados testes in vitro de difusão em disco e determinação da Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) e da Concentração Bactericida Mínima (CBM). Os resultados indicaram que a concentração de 160 µL mL-1 propiciou os maiores diâmetros de halos de inibição na difusão em disco, diferindo-se estatisticamente das demais concentrações (p < 0,05). Houve efeito inibitório (CIM) a partir da concentração de 80 µL mL-1 de óleo para todas as bactérias mas a CBM não foi detectada. Conclui-se que o óleo essencial de capim-limão apresenta atividade antimicrobiana in vitro frente a S. aureus e E. coli isoladas de aves na concentração de 160 µL mL-1. Novos estudos são necessários para avaliar a eficácia do uso de doses superiores e indicar esse óleo como aditivo em dietas de aves.
DEGRADABILIDADE RUMINAL DO CAPIM COLONIÃO (Panicum maximum Jacq. cv. Colonião) EM TRÊS IDADES PÓS-REBROTA
Authors: Garcez Bruno Spíndola , Alves Arnaud Azevêdo , Araújo Daniel Louçana Costa , Lacerda Marlúcia Da Silva Bezerra , Souza Layza Grabiella Costa , Carvalho Lucielma Ferreira
Published: August 2016

Objetivou-se com esta pesquisa, avaliar o valor nutritivo, quanto à composição química e a degradabilidade in situ do capim colonião em três idades pós rebrote. Para avaliação da degradação ruminal, pesou-se 4 g de amostra em sacos de náilon incubados no rúmen de dois bovinos adultos, fistulado, nos tempos 6, 24 e 72 h. Houve aumento nos teores de Matéria Seca (MS) e Fibra em Detergente Ácido (FDA) (P < 0,05) quando das maiores alturas de corte com redução na Proteína Bruta (PB). Houve redução na degradação potencial (DP) da MS, FDN e PB com o avançar da idade da forrageira, com elevação do tempo de colonização (lag) (0,69 h) e redução da taxa de passagem do FDN (1,14%/h). O aumento da idade pós rebrote do capim Colonião eleva os teores de fibra em detergente ácido e reduz os teres de proteína bruta, minimizando a degradação da MS, PB e FDN, que decrescem com o avançar da idade da forrageira. O manejo do capim Colonião aos 22 dias é o mais indicado para se obter forragem com maior teor de nutrientes e degradação ruminal, porém, deve-se atentar para a possível redução na massa de forragem em áreas manejadas com plantas nessa idade, ajustando a capacidade de suporte animal e evitando o superpastejo.
CONHECIMENTO DE TUTORES DE CÃES SOBRE TUMOR DE MAMA EM CADELAS
Authors: Magalhães Cláudia Da Silva , Lima Wagner Costa , Lima Dayanne Anunciação Silva Dantas , Quessada Ana Maria , Dornelles Daniel Enrico Müller , Costa Neto João Moreira da
Published: August 2016

Os tumores mamários (TM) são frequentes na espécie canina, sendo que a etiologia pode estar relacionada a diversos fatores, sendo o mais importante o fator hormonal. Devido a isso, a castração precoce é a principal forma de se prevenir a doença em cadelas. Este trabalho teve o objetivo de entrevistar tutores de cães na cidade de Teresina, a respeito do tumor de mama em cadelas. Foram abordadas 420 pessoas na cidade e observou-se que a maioria das pessoas não leva seu animal regularmente ao veterinário. Tal conduta diminui a possibilidade de diagnóstico precoce, fundamental em TM de cadelas. A maioria das pessoas respondeu que não castraria seu animal, demonstrando que não estão dispostos a adotar condutas importantes na guarda responsável. Dentre os que concordam com a castração, a anticoncepção foi apontada como principal motivo para muitos entrevistados. A maioria dos entrevistados (71,19%) não sabia que cadelas podem ter TM e dentre as pessoas que afirmaram saber, a maioria não sabia como prevenir a doença. Apenas 8,24% das pessoas citaram a castração antes do primeiro cio como conduta profilática para TM em cadelas. Diante dos resultados obtidos, constata-se que os habitantes de Teresina não possuem informações adequadas e suficientes a respeito de tumores mamários em cães. Sugere-se a instituição de campanhas educativas para diminuir a morbidade e mortalidade da enfermidade em cadelas.
PREVALÊNCIA E RESISTÊNCIA A ANTIBIÓTICOS DE (Streptococcus equi) DA CAVIDADE NASAL DE EQUINOS HÍGIDOS NO MUNICÍPIO DE FERNANDOPÓLIS, SÃO PAULO, BRASIL
Authors: Pansani Augusto Marsola , Gatto Igor Renan Honorato , Frias Danila Fernanda Rodrigues , Kozusny-Andreani Dora Inés
Published: August 2016

A adenite equina, popularmente chamada de garrotilho, é uma enfermidade contagiosa, causada pela bactéria Streptococcus equi. A enfermidade é conhecida por ter alta morbidade e baixa letalidade e seus prejuízos econômicos devem-se à perda de performance e alto custo do tratamento. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a presença e o perfil de resistência a antibióticos de Streptococcus equi da cavidade nasal de equinos hígidos da região de Fernandópolis – SP. Foram utilizados 50 equinos hígidos sem raça definida e com idade entre 12 a 24 meses. De cada animal foram colhidas amostras de exsudato da cavidade nasal por meio de swabs esterilizados e em seguida colocados em tubos contendo ágar base acrescido com 5% de sangue ovino desfibrinado. Os isolados que apresentaram colônias mucosas e β-hemolíticas foram analisados pela coloração de Gram, submetidos ao teste da catalase, e identificados pelo sistema API Rapid ID 32 Strep. Todos os isolados foram avaliados em difusão em placa. Foram isolados sessenta e sete amostras de Streptococcus equi, das subespécies equi e zooepidemicus. Verificou-se prevalência maior de S. equi subesp zooepidemicus (p < 0,001). A maioria dos isolados de S. equi subespécies equi foram mutirresistentes, havendo diferenças significativas entre os diferentes antibióticos (p < 0,005), enquanto que foi verificada maior susceptibilidade nos isolados S. equi subespécies zooepidemicus (p < 0,05). Os resultados obtidos mostraram que ambas as subespécies de Streptococcus equi fazem parte da microbiota normal da cavidade nasal de equinos, e que as mesmas diferem quanto a susceptibilidade aos antibióticos.
SILAGE ACID WASTE OF FISH IN BROILER
Authors: Venturoso Osvaldo Juliatti , Reinicke Felipe , Da Silva Caio Cézar , Vieira Everton Oliveira , Porto Marlos De Oliveira , Cavali Jucilene , Vieira Nayche Tortato , Ferreira Elvino
Published: August 2016

The process of production of silage from fish waste may represent an important source of protein and energy for broilers, and rationally allocate this residue which is normally discarded erroneously. This work aimed to evaluate weight gain and morphometric parameters of broilers fed with feed made from fish viscera silage. For the composition of the experimental diet was counted with: 65.61 % of the silage fish waste, 30.39 % soybean meal, 2.20 % of calcined bone meal , 1.40 % soda and 0 , 30% vitamin mineral premix , in order to provide levels mixture of 19.2 % CP 0.898 % Ca, 0.528% P disp. and 3874 kcal kg- 1 of EB. However, during the experimental period the broilers they had died. In another experiment involving non-nutrient additives, but using the same source of silage, had same result. It is suspected that the level of conservation of raw material can be related to the case on the basis of having the potential to produce biogenic amines.
Histomorphometry small intestine of broiler (Cobb 500®) supplemented with 7% glycerin gross
Authors: Cunha Hudson Piauilino de Figueiredo , Sousa Denise Cerqueira , Santos Edna Teles dos , Guzzi Anderson , Dourado Leilane Rocha Barros , Ferreira Guilherme José Bolzani de Campos
Published: August 2016

The objective metrics to evaluate changes in the components of the intestines of broilers fed the diet with the addition of crude glycerin to 7% and to compare the dimensions of these components in the different intestinal portions. This research was carried out in the experimental shed in XXXXXX the poultry sector were selected 16 animals randomly, and these were divided into two groups, one without crude glycerin added to the feed (A), and another with the addition of crude glycerin to feed (B). The animals were fed until 46 days of age, were subsequently euthanized and samples taken from the duodenum jejunum and ileum for histomorphometric assessment and comparison between groups between intestinal portions. Histomorphometric evaluation of the small intestine of the two groups showed a significant difference only in the duodenum, where there was a reduction of villi length in the treatment with the addition of crude glycerin to 7% (172,08 x 132,12 µm; control and treated group, respectively). When comparing the size of the mucosa of the components of each intestinal portion was observed a gradual reduction of villi and crypt and the muscular wall in the cranio-caudal direction. It is concluded that the addition of glycerin in broiler diet reduces the duodenum villus length and the dimensions of the components of the intestinal mucosa decrease in the cranio-caudal direction intestine.
Women Empowerment through Skills Development & Vocational Education
Authors: Ahamad Tauffiqu , Sinha Ambalika , Shastri Rajesh Kumar
Published: August 2016

Women participation and empowerment are fundamental women's rights to enabling women to have control over their lives and put forth influence in society. Women often face discrimination and gender inequalities, with some women experiencing multiple discrimination and exclusion because of factors such as background or caste. This paper is dealth skills development through vocational training along with various measures such as Pradahan Mantri Kausal Vikas Yojna, National Skills Development Corporation, National Skills Development Mission. Ministry of Labor and Employment has taken a number of initiatives in the field of skill development and employment. For instance, training of trainers, Vocational Training for girls is being conducted by Advanced Training Institutes and Regional Vocational Training Institutes run by the Ministry. Vocational Education and training are essential mechanism of any strategy to improve farm and nonfarm productivity that improves rural incomes. Skill is the bridge between job and workforce. Women often have different training needs than men, since they are more likely to work as contributing family workers, subsistence farmers, home-based micro entrepreneurs, or low-paid seasonal laborers, in addition to handling their domestic work and care responsibilities. Skills development is a key to improving household productivity, employability and income-earning opportunities for women and also for enhancing sustainable rural development and livelihoods.
Exact solutions for a class of volterral integral-differential equations arising in viscoelastic fluid
Authors: Tian Yi
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we applied (G'/G)-expansion method to a class of Volterra
integral-differential equations in viscoelastic fluid. The solution procedure
of this method, by the help of symbolic computation of MATLAB, is of utter
simplicity. The obtained results show that (G'/G)-expansion method is
effective.
The tearing properties of textiles with steiner tree structure
Authors: Wu Ling-Ye , Wang Ping , Zhang Yan , Kong Hua
Published: August 2016

Tearing properties of textiles has drawn much attention due to recent
applications to bullet-proof or explosion-proof vests. However, the tearing
process is very complex, which is influenced by bulk material and geometrical
factors as well, and there is no a matured theory for the tearing process,
which limits optimal design of the textiles. Despite many experimental
studies, we still lack fully understanding of the tearing process. In this
paper, tearing properties of textiles with Steiner tree structure are studied
experimentally and theoretically in order to develop a reliable mathematical
model. The theoretical analysis elucidates that cell size and the cell's
material in a structure cell of Steiner tree are the two main factors
affecting the tearing properties, which are verified experimentally. The
theoretical prediction of tearing strength will be greatly benefit for
geometrical structure design for textile materials in the future.
Influence of nano-fiber membranes on the silver ions released from hollow fibers containing silver particles
Authors: Li Huigai , Lin Ling , Wang Meizhen , Wang Xuan , Wan Ming
Published: August 2016

Polyether sulfone was dissolved into dimethylacetamide with the concentration
of 20% to prepare a uniform solution for fabrication of nanofiber membranes
by bubble electrospinning technique. Morphologies of the nanofiber film
were carried out with a scanning electron microscope. The influence on the
silver ions escaped from hollow fiber loaded with silver particles was
exerted by using different release liquid. The water molecular clusters
obtained from the nanofiber membranes filter can slow down the release of
silver ions. However, the effect of slowing was weakened with the time
increasing. In the end, the trend of change is gradually consistent with the
trend of release of silver ions in the deionized water.
Analytical approach to a generalized Hirota-Satsuma coupled Korteweg-de Vries equation by modified variational iteration method
Authors: Lu Jun-Feng , Ma Li
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we apply the modified variational iteration method to a
generalized Hirota-Satsuma coupled Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) equation. The
numerical solutions of the initial value problem of the generalized
Hirota-Satsuma coupled KdV equation are provided. Numerical results are given
to show the efficiency of the modified variational iteration method.
Construction of a variational formulation for heat transfer
Authors: Liu Hong-Yan , Jiang Juan-Fen
Published: August 2016

This paper gives two useful methods to construct a variational formulation
for heat transfer. Xu's variational principle for heat transfer in terms of
entransy is used as an example to elucidate how to correct a wrong
variational formulation, and the semi-inverse method is adopted to establish
a needed variational principle.
Integrated microchannel cooling in a three dimensional integrated circuit: A thermal management
Authors: Wang Kang-Jia , Pan Zhong-Liang
Published: August 2016

Microchannel cooling is a promising technology for solving the
three-dimensional integrated circuit thermal problems. However, the
relationship between the microchannel cooling parameters and thermal behavior
of the three dimensional integrated circuit is complex and difficult to
understand. In this paper, we perform a detailed evaluation of the influence
of the microchannel structure and the parameters of the cooling liquid on
steady-state temperature profiles. The results presented in this paper are
expected to aid in the development of thermal design guidelines for three
dimensional integrated circuit with microchannel cooling.
Optimization of hydrofoil for tidal current turbine based on particle swarm optimization and computational fluid dynamic method
Authors: Zhang De-Sheng , Chen Jian , Shi Wei-Dong , Shi Lei , Geng Lin-Lin
Published: August 2016

Both efficiency and cavitation performance of the hydrofoil are the key
technologies to design the tidal current turbine. In this paper, the
hydrofoil efficiency and lift coefficient were improved based on particle
swarm optimization method and XFoil codes. The cavitation performance of the
optimized hydrofoil was also discussed by the computational fluid dynamic.
Numerical results show the efficiency of the optimized hydrofoil was improved
11% ranging from the attack angle of 0-7? compared to the original NACA63-818
hydrofoil. The minimum pressure on leading edge of the optimized hydrofoil
dropped above 15% at the high attack angle conditions of 10?, 15?, and 20?,
respectively, which is benefit for the hydrofoil to avoiding the cavitation.
Monte Carlo method for solving a parabolic problem
Authors: Tian Yi , Yan Zai-Zai
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we present a numerical method based on random sampling for a
parabolic problem. This method combines use of the Crank-Nicolson method and
Monte Carlo method. In the numerical algorithm, we first discretize governing
equations by Crank-Nicolson method, and obtain a large sparse system of
linear algebraic equations, then use Monte Carlo method to solve the linear
algebraic equations. To illustrate the usefulness of this technique, we apply
it to some test problems.
Microstructure and property of regenepercentaged silk fibroin/chitosan nanofibers
Authors: Zhao Lei , He Yuan-Fang , Wang Qian-Wen , He Chun-Hui
Published: August 2016

Composite silk fibroin/chitosan nanofiber membrane was fabricated by bubbfil
electrospinning. The influence of chitosan content on composite membrane's
microstructure, mechanical property, and the percentage of water-dissolved
were studied experimentally. The result indicated that the crystallinity of
electrospun membrane was enhanced by increasing chitosan concentration. It is
noteworthy that the percentage of water-dissolved was the minimum when the
weight ratio of silk fibroin/chitosan was 70:30. After the composite membrane
treated by the methanol, the percentage of water-dissolved of the nanofiber
membrane decreased significantly. The strength and elongation at break of
composite membrane increased gradually with the increased content of
chitosan. Additionally, the electrospun silk fibroin/chitosan membrane showed
excellent antibacterial property.
Bubbfil electrospinning of PA66/Cu nanofibers
Authors: Li Ya , Wan Yuqin , Zhang Yan , He Ji-Huan , Wang Ping
Published: August 2016

Different PA66/Cu nanofibers were prepared under various electrospinning
parameters through bubbfil electrospinning. The process parameters were
determined. Cuprum particles with different size were added to PA66 solution
to produce PA6/66-Cu composite nanofibers. The influence of cuprum
nanoparticle size on the PA66 nanofibers was analyzed.
High-temperature heating and microwave pretreatments: A new light in bamboo's enzymatic hydrolysis
Authors: Fu Jiajia , Li Yu , Zhang Qun , Shen Shen , Du Xiao-Ying , Wang Hong-Bo , Gao Wei-Dong
Published: August 2016

A combined technology of high-temperature heating and microwave is proposed
to treat bamboo substrates prior to enzymatic hydrolysis to overcome the
limits of ei- ther technology. The combined technology helps to promote the
reducing sugar yield from enzymatic hydrolysis of bamboo. The protein
adsorption test indicated that more enzyme proteins could adsorb on the
surface of bamboo pretreated by the combined technology. Thus, the
possibility of enzymes to hydrolyze bamboo increased. Meanwhile,
X-ray diffractometry tested revealed that the combined technology
benefited the removal of non-cellulosic substances from bamboo and resulted
in a higher crystallinity.
Revised Model for Presentation in Statement(s) of Financial Performance: Potential Implications for Measurement in the Conceptual Framework
Authors: Linsmeier Thomas J.
Published: August 2016

SYNOPSIS:

Current financial performance reporting has led to a focus on earnings per share and a proliferation of both non-GAAP measures and items reported in other comprehensive income. I examine characteristics of some of the more common non-GAAP earnings adjustments to propose a financial performance reporting model that consistently presents information with those characteristics separately. This reporting model focuses on distinguishing operating results from nonoperating results and within those categories presenting recurring amounts separately from nonrecurring amounts. I next explore potential implications for measurement. This analysis identifies conditions when the recognition of incremental unrealized gains or losses (UGLs) in income under a fair value measurement model improves relevance of reported information. The analysis suggests that UGLs provide most relevant information when there are no internal or external constraints affecting management's ability to sell an asset or transfer a liability before maturity or the end of its useful life. When assets/liabilities are constrained from being sold/transferred before maturity or the end of their useful lives, reported UGLs will reverse to zero over time, limiting relevance. This analysis supports measurement of financial assets and investment properties at fair value and provides a potential basis for measuring other assets and liabilities at historical cost.
Computed tomography–guided percutaneous biopsy for vertebral neoplasms: a department's experience and hybrid biopsy technique to improve yield
Authors: Garg Vasant , Kosmas Christos , Josan Enambir S. , Partovi Sasan , Bhojwani Nicholas , Fergus Nathan , Young Peter C. , Robbin Mark R.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE

Recent articles have identified the poor diagnostic yield of percutaneous needle biopsy for vertebral osteomyelitis. The current study aimed to confirm the higher accuracy of CT-guided spinal biopsy for vertebral neoplasms and to identify which biopsy technique provides the highest yield.

METHODS

Over a 9-year period, the radiology department at University Hospitals Case Medical Center performed 222 CT-guided biopsies of vertebral lesions, of which clinicians indicated a concern for vertebral neoplasms in 122 patients. A retrospective chart review was performed to confirm the higher sensitivity of the percutaneous intervention for vertebral neoplasms.

RESULTS

A core sample was obtained for all 122 biopsies of concern (100.0%). Only 6 cases (4.9%) were reported as nondiagnostic per histological sampling, and 12 cases (9.8%) were negative for disease. The question of vertebral neoplastic involvement warrants follow-up, and the current study was able to determine the subsequent diagnosis of each lesion. Of the 122 total, 94 (77.0%) core samples provided true-positive results, and the sensitivity of core biopsy measured 87.9%. The technical approach did not demonstrate any significant difference in diagnostic yield. However, when the vertebral cortex was initially pierced with a coaxial bone biopsy system and subsequently a 14-gauge spring-loaded cutting biopsy needle was coaxially advanced into lytic lesions, 14 true positives were obtained with a corresponding sensitivity of 100.0%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the higher sensitivity of image-guided percutaneous needle biopsy for vertebral neoplasms. In addition, it demonstrates how the use of a novel cutting needle biopsy approach, performed coaxially through a core biopsy track, provides the highest yield.
Histopathological examination of spine tumors after treatment with radiosurgery
Authors: Zwagerman Nathan T. , McDowell Michael M. , Hamilton Ronald L. , Monaco Edward A. , Flickinger John C. , Gerszten Peter C.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE

Increased survival time after diagnosis of neoplastic disease has resulted in a gradual increase in spine tumor incidence. Radiosurgery is frequently a viable alternative to operative management in a population with severe medical comorbidities. The authors sought to assess the histopathological consequences of radiosurgery in the subset of patients progressing to operative intervention.

METHODS

Eighteen patients who underwent radiosurgery for spine tumors between 2008 and 2014 subsequently progressed to surgical treatment. A histopathological examination of these cases was performed. Indications for surgery included symptomatic compression fractures, radiographic instability, and symptoms of cord or cauda equina compression. Biopsy samples were obtained from the tumor within the radiosurgical zone in all cases and were permanently fixated. Viable tumor samples were stained for Ki 67.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients had metastatic lesions and 3 patients had neurofibromas. The mean patient age was 57 years. The operative indication was symptomatic compression in 10 cases (67%). The most frequent metastatic lesions were breast cancer (4 cases), renal cell carcinoma (3), prostate cancer (2), and endometrial cancer (2). In 9 (60%) of the 15 metastatic cases, histological examination of the lesions showed minimal evidence of inflammation. Viable tumor at the margins of the radiosurgery was seen in 9 (60%) of the metastatic cases. Necrosis in the tumor bed was frequent, as was fibrotic bone marrow. Vascular ectasia was seen in 2 of 15 metastatic cases, but sclerosis with ectasia was frequent. No evidence of malignant conversion was seen in the periphery of the lesions in the 3 neurofibroma cases. In 1 case of neurofibroma, the lesion demonstrated some small areas of remnant tumor in the radiosurgical target zone.

CONCLUSIONS

This case series demonstrates important histopathological characteristics of spinal lesions treated by SRS. Regions with the highest exposure to radiation appear to be densely necrotic and show little evidence of tumor growth, whereas peripheral regions distant from the radiation dosage are more likely to demonstrate viable tumor in malignant and benign neoplasms. Physiological tissue appears to be similarly affected. With additional investigation, a more homogenized field of hypofractionated radiation exposure may allow for tumor obliteration with relative preservation of critical anatomical structures.
Posterior approaches for symptomatic metastatic spinal cord compression
Authors: Molina Camilo , Rory Goodwin C. , Abu-Bonsrah Nancy , Elder Benjamin D. , De la Garza Ramos Rafael , Sciubba Daniel M.
Published: August 2016

Surgical interventions for spinal metastasis are commonly performed for mechanical stabilization, pain relief, preservation of neurological function, and local tumor reduction. Although multiple surgical approaches can be used for the treatment of metastatic spinal lesions, posterior approaches are commonly performed. In this study, the role of posterior surgical procedures in the treatment of spinal metastases was reviewed, including posterior laminectomy with and without instrumentation for stabilization, transpedicular corpectomy, and costotransversectomy. A review of the literature from 1980 to 2015 was performed using Medline, as was a review of the bibliographies of articles meeting preset inclusion criteria, to identify studies on the role of these posterior approaches among adults with spinal metastasis. Thirty-four articles were ultimately analyzed, including 1 randomized controlled trial, 6 prospective cohort studies, and 27 retrospective case reports and/or series. Some of the reviewed articles had Level II evidence indicating that laminectomy with stabilization can be recommended for improvement in neurological outcome and reduction of pain in selected patients. However, the use of laminectomy alone should be carefully considered. Additionally, transpedicular corpectomy and costotransversectomy can be recommended with the expectation of improving neurological outcomes and reducing pain in properly selected patients with spinal metastases. With improvements in the treatment paradigms for patients with spinal metastasis, as well as survival, surgical therapy will continue to play an important role in the management of spinal metastasis. While this review presents a window into determining the utility of posterior approaches, future prospective studies will provide essential data to better define the roles of the various options now available to surgeons in treating spinal metastases.
Factors associated with improved survival following surgery for renal cell carcinoma spinal metastases
Authors: Petteys Rory J. , Spitz Steven M. , Rory Goodwin C. , Abu-Bonsrah Nancy , Bydon Ali , Witham Timothy F. , Wolinsky Jean-Paul , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Sciubba Daniel M.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) frequently metastasizes to the spine, causing pain or neurological dysfunction, and is often resistant to standard therapies. Spinal surgery is frequently required, but may result in high morbidity rates. The authors sought to identify prognostic factors and determine clinical outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for RCC spinal metastases.

METHODS

The authors searched the records of patients who had undergone spinal surgery for metastatic disease at a single institution during a 12-year period and retrieved data for 30 patients with metastatic RCC. The records were retrospectively reviewed for data on preoperative conditions, treatment, and survival. Statistical analyses (i.e., Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank test in univariate analysis) were performed with R version 2.15.2.

RESULTS

The 30 patients (23 men and 7 women with a mean age of 57.6 years [range 29–79 years]) had in total 40 spinal surgeries for metastatic RCC. The indications for surgery included pain (70%) and weakness (30%). Fourteen patients (47%) had a Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score (SINS) indicating indeterminate or impending instability, and 6 patients (20%) had a SINS denoting instability. The median length of postoperative survival estimated with Kaplan-Meier analysis was 11.4 months. Younger age (p = 0.001) and disease control at the primary site (p = 0.005), were both significantly associated with improved survival. In contrast, visceral (p = 0.002) and osseous (p = 0.009) metastases, nonambulatory status (p = 0.001), and major comorbidities (p = 0.015) were all significantly associated with decreased survival. Postoperative Frankel grades were the same or had improved in 78% of patients. Major complications occurred in 9 patients, and there were 3 deaths (10%) during the 30-day in-hospital period. Three en bloc resections were performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Resection and fixation may provide pain relief and neurological stabilization in patients with spinal metastases arising from RCC, but surgical morbidity rates remain high. Younger patients with solitary spinal metastases, good neurological function, and limited major comorbidities may have longer survival and may benefit from aggressive intervention.
Clinical and pathological outcomes after resection of intramedullary spinal cord tumors: a single-institution case series
Authors: Samuel Nardin , Tetreault Lindsay , Santaguida Carlo , Nater Anick , Moayeri Nizar , Massicotte Eric M. , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to identify clinically relevant predictors of progression-free survival and functional outcomes in patients who underwent surgery for intramedullary spinal cord tumors (ISCTs).

METHODS

An institutional spinal tumor registry and billing records were reviewed to identify adult patients who underwent resection of ISCTs between 1993 and 2014. Extensive data were collected from patient charts and operative notes, including demographic information, extent of resection, tumor pathology, and functional and oncological outcomes. Survival analysis was used to determine important predictors of progression-free survival. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between an “optimal” functional outcome on the Frankel or McCormick scale at 1-year follow-up and various clinical and surgical characteristics.

RESULTS

The consecutive case series consisted of 63 patients (50.79% female) who underwent resection of ISCTs. The mean age of patients was 41.92 ± 14.36 years (range 17.60–75.40 years). Complete microsurgical resection, defined as no evidence of tumor on initial postoperative imaging, was achieved in 34 cases (54.84%) of the 62 patients for whom this information was available. On univariate analysis, the most significant predictor of progression-free survival was tumor histology (p = 0.0027). Patients with Grade I/II astrocytomas were more likely to have tumor progression than patients with WHO Grade II ependymomas (HR 8.03, 95% CI 2.07–31.11, p = 0.0026) and myxopapillary ependymomas (HR 8.01, 95% CI 1.44–44.34, p = 0.017). Furthermore, patients who underwent radical or subtotal resection were more likely to have tumor progression than those who underwent complete resection (HR 3.46, 95% CI 1.23–9.73, p = 0.018). Multivariate analysis revealed that tumor pathology was the only significant predictor of tumor progression. On univariate analysis, the most significant predictors of an “optimal” outcome on the Frankel scale were age (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.89–0.98, p = 0.0062), preoperative Frankel grade (OR 4.84, 95% CI 1.33–17.63, p = 0.017), McCormick score (OR 0.22, 95% CI 0.084–0.57, p = 0.0018), and region of spinal cord (cervical vs conus: OR 0.067, 95% CI 0.012–0.38, p = 0.0023; and thoracic vs conus: OR 0.015: 95% CI 0.001–0.20, p = 0.0013). Age, tumor pathology, and region were also important predictors of 1-year McCormick scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Extent of tumor resection and histopathology are significant predictors of progression-free survival following resection of ISCTs. Important predictors of functional outcomes include tumor histology, region of spinal cord in which the tumor is present, age, and preoperative functional status.
Decompression surgery for spinal metastases: a systematic review
Authors: Bakar Dara , Tanenbaum Joseph E. , Phan Kevin , Alentado Vincent J. , Steinmetz Michael P. , Benzel Edward C. , Mroz Thomas E.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature on reported outcomes following decompression surgery for spinal metastases.

METHODS

The authors conducted MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science database searches for studies reporting clinical outcomes and complications associated with decompression surgery for metastatic spinal tumors. Both retrospective and prospective studies were included. After meeting inclusion criteria, articles were categorized based on the following reported outcomes: survival, ambulation, surgical technique, neurological function, primary tumor histology, and miscellaneous outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the 4148 articles retrieved from databases, 36 met inclusion criteria. Of those included, 8 were prospective studies and 28 were retrospective studies. The year of publication ranged from 1992 to 2015. Study size ranged from 21 to 711 patients. Three studies found that good preoperative Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS ≥ 80%) was a significant predictor of survival. No study reported a significant effect of time-to-surgery following the onset of spinal cord compression symptoms on survival. Three studies reported improvement in neurological function following surgery. The most commonly cited complication was wound infection or dehiscence (22 studies). Eight studies reported that preoperative ambulatory or preoperative motor status was a significant predictor of postoperative ambulatory status. A wide variety of surgical techniques were reported: posterior decompression and stabilization, posterior decompression without stabilization, and posterior decompression with total or subtotal tumor resection. Although a wide range of functional scales were used to assess neurological outcomes, four studies used the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale to assess neurological function. Four studies reported the effects of radiation therapy and local disease control for spinal metastases. Two studies reported that the type of treatment was not significantly associated with the rate of local control. The most commonly reported primary tumor types included lung cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, renal cancer, and gastrointestinal cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reports a systematic review of the literature on decompression surgery for spinal metastases. The results of this study can help educate surgeons on the previously published predictors of outcomes following decompression surgery for metastatic spinal disease. However, the authors also identify significant gaps in the literature and the need for future studies investigating the optimal practice with regard to decompression surgery for spinal metastases.
The Use of Neck Support Pillows and Postural Exercises in the Management of Chronic Neck Pain
Authors: Jamal Alisha N. , Feldman Brian M. , Pullenayegum Eleanor
Published: August 2016

Objective.

Chronic neck pain is a common problem with a profound effect on quality of life. Identifying evidence-based management strategies is fundamental in improving patient outcomes. This study is a reanalysis of the data from Helewa, et al to further characterize the effects of postural exercises and neck support pillows on neck pain.

Methods.

A full factorial model was used. All interactions were analyzed adjusting for the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) at baseline.

Results.

Postural exercises significantly decreased NPQ scores at ≥ 3 weeks, and the use of a neck support pillow significantly decreased NPQ scores at ≥ 12 weeks.

Conclusion.

These interventions could be beneficial in reducing neck pain symptoms.
Update on Substance Use in Adolescence
Authors: Durand Simone C. , Fogger Susanne A. , McGuinness Teena M.
Published: August 2016

With alarming frequency, an individual's first substance use occurs in childhood or adolescence. However, the use of many types of substances among individuals younger than 18 has been gradually declining over the past 6 years, and our understanding of risk factors for youth substance use has improved. Risk factors identified as possibly contributing to a young individual's first encounter with cigarettes or alcohol include parents' own substance use or mental health problems. Mental disorders of children have been implicated in substance use as well. Screening and interventions are available to reduce the frequency and intensity of adolescent substance use and are suggested in the current article. Nurses are in a position to identify adolescents who are at risk for substance use disorders and link the family system to effective intervention. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 54
(8), 24–27.]
Nonpharmacological Alternatives to Benzodiazepine Drugs for the Treatment of Anxiety in Outpatient Populations: A Literature Review
Authors: Platt Lois M. , Whitburn Amy Irene , Platt-Koch Alexander G. , Koch Ronald L.
Published: August 2016

Overuse of benzodiazepine drugs to treat anxiety, mood, and sleep disorders is a growing problem in clinical practice. GABAergic medications (benzodiazepine drugs in particular) have side effects, drug interactions, and the potential to create tolerance and dependence in users. GABA-enhancing dietary supplements have similar and unique risks. Natural, non-chemical, anxiolytic treatments exist and can be safely recommended to patients. Three such treatments have been the focus of study in the past 20 years: mindfulness, meditation, and yoga. Growing evidence exists that these treatments can be safely recommended to patients with anxiety. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 54
(8), 35–42.]
Routing Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Kumar Nagesh , Singh Yashwant
Published: August 2016

In Wireless Sensor Network (WSN), the routing protocols have been given attention because most of the routing protocols are application and architecture dependent. This chapter presents routing protocols for wireless sensor networks and also classifies routing in WSN. Chapter gives five main classifications of routing protocols in WSN which are data-centric, hierarchical, location-based, network flow and QoS aware and opportunistic routing protocols. The focus has been given on advancement of routing in WSN in form of opportunistic routing, in which the sensor nodes utilize broadcasting nature of wireless links and the data packets can be transmitted through different paths. The routing protocols for WSN are described and discussed under the appropriate classification. A table of comparison of routing protocols on the basis of power usage, data aggregation, scalability, query basis, overhead, data delivery model and QoS parameters has been presented.
Self Organizing Carbon Structures
Authors: László István , Zsoldos Ibolya , Fülep Dávid
Published: August 2016

Graphene is a two-dimensional building material for the zero-dimensional fullerenes and the one-dimensional nanotubes. Using mathematical constructions and identifying some atoms, these materials can be rolled up from appropriate patterns cut out from the hexagonal lattice of carbon atoms. The question arises if there is a realistic formation process behind this idealized construction. Although the first time the C60 and C70 fullerenes were produced by laser irradiated graphite, the fullerene formation theories are based on various fragments of carbon chains, and networks of pentagonal and hexagonal rings. The first successful results concerning fullerene formations in a priori molecular dynamics simulations based on a true quantum chemical potential was published twenty-one years after discovering the buckminsterfullerene. The greater application of fullerenes and nanotube faces the lack of selective growth and assembly processes. Here we review quantum chemical molecular dynamics calculations which selectively produce the buckminsterfullerene C60, the C70, the armchair and the zigzag nanotubes depending on the initial structure of patterns cut out from the graphene.
Characteristic Polynomial in Assessment of Carbon-Nano Structures
Authors: Bolboacă Sorana D. , Jäntschi Lorentz
Published: August 2016

Six dodecahedrane assemblies as multiple of five and respectively six structures were constructed and investigated from the topological point of view. The investigation was conducted using characteristic polynomials, graph invariant encoding important properties of the graph of the chemical structure. The assemblies of 5, 6, 15 and 25 dodecahedranes proved to have the center in the same plane while the assemblies of 12 and 24 dodecahedranes degenerated from the planar central form to a chair conformation. Generally, the number of real roots of characteristic polynomials is equal to the number of atoms in the assembly. The obtained roots of the characteristic polynomial were split into intervals and the frequency apparition spectra were simulated. The obtained spectra were used to investigate the behavior of investigated assembly.
Space of Nanoworld
Authors: Zhizhin G. V. , Diudea M. V.
Published: August 2016

In this chapter, a geometrical model to accurately describe the distribution of light points in diffraction patterns of quasicrystals is proposed. It is shown that the proposed system of parallel lines has axes of the fifth order, periodically repeating the fundamental domain of the quasicrystals. A 4D- polytope, called the golden hyperrombohedron is introduced. It consists from eight rhombohedrons densely filling the 4D space (like the regular 8-Cell). Faces of the hyperrombohedron are connected by the golden section; they can be scaled as needed. On this universal lattice of the golden hyperrombohedron, famous crystallographic lattices: Bravais, Delaunay, Voronoi, etc. can be embedded. In supporting the idea of n-dimensional domains entangled within the three-dimensional Euclidean space, in minerals or synthetic chemicals, two series of small double-shell clusters are designed by operations on maps and their topological properties discussed.