bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Echocardiography
Authors: Palmer Sarah Jane
Published: March 2016

This section presents a concise overview of the conditions, treatments and clinical procedures in the field of cardiovascular care. This ‘back-to-basics’ article aims to refresh nurses' knowledge on correct theory and practice, as well as introduce students and junior nurses to aspects of practice
Upper facial rejuvenation: the role of surgical and non-surgical interventions
Authors: Brennan Connie
Published: March 2016

The upper face occupies about one third of the surface area of the face. It is comprised of the forehead, temples, brow, glabella and upper eyelids, as well as underlying anatomical structures. With time, the upper face succumbs to photodamage, skin thinning, dynamic and static rhytides, gravitational changes, soft tissue loss and bone loss, resulting in pigmentation, crepiness, wrinkles, sagging, and a gaunt appearance. Surgical procedures, such as blepharoplasty and brow lift, and non-surgical interventions, such as neurotoxins, dermal fillers, ablative and non-ablative lasers, ultrasound therapy and advanced skin treatments, can both transform and rejuvenate the upper face. Prevention as well as correction should be discussed when working with patients of various ages and needs. Both anatomical ‘danger zones’ and potential adverse events associated with procedures for upper facial rejuvenation should be understood so that aesthetic practitioners are equipped to deliver optimal treatment outcomes.
Epidermal skin grafting in patients with complex wounds: a case series
Authors: Bhatia A.
Published: March 2016

Objective:

Complex wounds are often difficult to close and sometimes require a split-thickness skin graft (STSG). However, epidermal skin grafts, which contain only an epidermal layer of skin, are a viable option for wound coverage in these challenging wounds. We report our experience using an automated epidermal harvesting tool to harvest epidermal skin grafts for the treatment of complex wounds.

Method:

Epidermal skin grafts were harvested from the patient's thigh, which was first washed with isopropyl alcohol. After harvesting, they were transferred to the recipient site using a film dressing. A bolster dressing using gauze and a self-adherent wrap held the grafts in place.

Results:

We selected 34 patients with wounds that had been present from several weeks to over a year. Prior treatments, included skin substitutes, alginate dressings, Unna Boot, and collagen dressings. There were 17 female and 17 male patients with a mean age of 67.1 years (range: 37–103). Wound types were: traumatic wounds, diabetic foot ulcers, venous stasis ulcers, pressure ulcers, and surgical wounds. Patient comorbidities included hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, and osteoarthritis. Mean epithelialisation rate at the recipient site was 7.0 weeks (range: 1–35 weeks). Wound complications included drainage, hypergranulation, and oedema. At follow-up 82.4% (28/34) of wounds were healed, 2.9% (1/34) wounds showed improved healing, 11.8% (4/34) of wounds did not heal, and 2.9% (1/34) were lost to follow-up. All donor sites healed without complications.

Conclusion:

In our cohort, use of epidermal skin grafts in conjunction with bolster dressings resulted in full closure or wound improvement of a majority of patients. Epidermal grafting provides another treatment option to physicians when only the epidermal layer is needed.

Declaration of interest:

Dr. Bhatia is a consultant for KCI, an Acelity company.
Effect of a wound cleansing solution on wound bed preparation and inflammation in chronic wounds: a single-blind RCT
Authors: Bellingeri A. , Falciani F. , Traspedini P. , Moscatelli A. , Russo A. , Tino G. , Chiari P. , Peghetti A.
Published: March 2016

Objective:

Research into surfactant solutions for the debridement of chronic wounds suggests that surfactants may support wound bed preparation (WBP) in chronic wounds, however their efficacy has not been evaluated in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Our aim was to assess the clinical efficacy of a propylbetaine-polihexanide (PP) solution versus normal saline (NS) solution in WBP, assessing inflammatory signs and wound size reduction in patients with pressure ulcers (PUs) or vascular leg ulcers.

Method:

In a single-blinded randomised controlled trial (RCT) patients were randomly allocated to two groups and treated with either propylbetaine-polihexanide (PP) solution (Prontosan) or NS. Wounds were assessed using the Bates-Jensen wound assessment tool (BWAT). Assessments took place at inclusion (T0), day 7 (T1), day 14 (T2), day 21 (T3), and day 28 (T4). Outcomes were analysed using a two-tailed Student's t-test.

Results:

A total of 289 patients were included. Both groups had similar demographics, clinical status, and wound characteristics. Data analysis showed statistically significant differences between T0 and T4 for the following outcomes: BWAT total score, p=0.0248; BWAT score for inflammatory items, p=0.03; BWAT scores for wound size reduction (p=0.049) and granulation tissue improvement (p=0.043), all in favour of PP. The assessment of pain did not show any significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusion:

The study results showed significantly higher efficacy of the PP solution versus NS solution, in reducing inflammatory signs and accelerating the healing of vascular leg ulcers and PUs. This evidence supports the update of protocols for the care of chronic wounds.

Declaration of interest:

The authors have no conflict of interest regarding this research. This is an investigator initiated trial. B. Braun Milano SpA kindly provided the material under investigation for both treatment groups, and paid the Ethics Committees' application fees in all participating centres.
El espacio sonoro en el Arte contemporáneo: la Materia del tiempo de Richard Serra
Authors: Arce Sagarduy Mikel
Published: March 2016

El espacio guarda estrecha relación con el sonido y por esta razón muchos artistas que han pensado en sus construcciones o instalaciones escultóricas como lugares habitables o con capacidad de ser recorridos, han valorado las propiedades acústicas de dichos espacios y su capacidad de sugerir sensaciones sonoras o acústicas, informar de las calidades y texturas del material, de lo cóncavo o Io convexo y del tamaño del espacio contenedor.

En el caso deLa Materia del Tiempo(2005) de Richard Serra, instalada de manera casi permanente en el museo Guggenheim de Bilbao, encontramos un conjunto escultórico en el que Richard Serra propone al espectador un «encuentro con la materia y con el espacio». En esta experiencia ejecutada mediante el recorrido y la habitación de esos espacios (espirales, toros[1], etc.), en los cuales nuestra percepción sonora varía constantemente, nos muestra incluso a ciegas, las propiedades del espacio y de la materia de cada forma escultórica.
Modulares: An artistic experience between construction and visual noise
Authors: Jodra Llorente Susana , Schneider Patricia
Published: March 2016

In our screen printing process we work with specific images from our photographic archives and plans from different sources, that we use asmodulesfor ourseries of unique prints.Bymodulatingthe images in size, intensity and location, we have been building collages with up to twenty layers. TheModulares Art Project, which we developed in the last three years, allowed us to investigate the evolution of our creative process by revising pictures of previous years. We created compositions by adding and subtracting geometric forms and elements of concrete pictures, printing them layer by layer. Through this process, visual echoes of the subjacent layers that interfere with the reading of the message have been silenced or in some cases emphasized. The noise and visual disturbances of the underlying information are also object of our interest as they give the interaction between the different images a temporal dimension.
Extremal effective divisors of Brill–Noether and Gieseker–Petri type in
Authors: Chen Dawei , Patel Anand
Published: March 2016

We show that certain divisors of Brill-Noether and Gieseker-Petri type span extremal rays of the effective cone in the moduli space of stable genus one curves with n ordered marked points. In particular, they are different from the infinitely many extremal rays found in [3].
Improving the Assessment of the Environmental Indicators of Investment Projects Based on the Public-Private Partnership
Authors: Malakhova Tatiana N. , Kolotyrin Konstantin P. , Yakunin Vladimir A.
Published: March 2016

Implementation of environmentally significant activities is often associated with the need to attract significant investment from different sources, both public and private. However, investors should be interested in the profitability of their investments and receiving definite guarantees. To this end, the article describes the method of estimating the cost-effectiveness of the investment attractiveness of the procedure, which is used today in domestic practice (Russia). Then it has been found how to change this procedure to allow estimating the high risk and uncertainty of projects. In particular, the authors suggest using an objective function, which they have developed for the evaluation of investment projects. The main goal of the objective function is not only to improve the production, but also to improve the ecological situation in the region.
The Economic Valuation of Carbon Footprint
Authors: Nekrasenko Larysa An. , Prokopenko Olha V.
Published: March 2016

Currently, Greenhouse Gas Emissions are the main reason of the global warming threat. Carbon sequestration by the forests plays the important role in reducing CO2 emissions. Therefore, the environmental policy of the state to reduce greenhouse gases should first of all focus on the development of forestry. But at the same time the environmental policy depends on the tax policy of the state and is significantly different in developed countries and in countries with transition economies.
Kei hea te Ora? The whereabouts of the health of children in the early childhood curriculum of Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Gibbons Andrew
Published: March 2016

The policies and practices of early childhood teaching in Aotearoa New Zealand have been an ongoing site of political, economic, social and cultural contestation. Competing values and beliefs regarding experiences of both the child and the teacher have been central to the contesting. Helen May (2001, 2009) tracks these tensions through the waxing and waning of particular landscapes or paradigms, each of which can be seen to have contributed to the growth of the early childhood sector, its purpose, operations, manifestations, and its arguably tenuous cohesion as an educational sector. This paper provides a brief overview of the various paradigms, their purposes, and their spheres of influence (recognising that other papers in this special issue will contribute to a very detailed picture of early childhood education in Aotearoa) before analysing the discourses of child health in relation to the early childhood curriculum. Health is woven into the strands and principles of Te Whāriki (Ministry of Education [MoE], 1996). Yet, this paper questions whether teachers and student teachers are attuned to what it means to have health as a key part of the curriculum, and explores whether health is a marginal consideration in the curriculum. The paper engages Foucault’s work, exploring tensions between pedagogical and medical disciplines in relation to the professionalisation of early childhood teaching. The idea of holism is then discussed as an approach to early childhood education curriculum discussions with reference to the participatory approaches to the development of Te Whāriki.
Functional assessment of children with cerebral palsy –current reports
Authors: Strączyńska Agnieszka , Radzimińska Agnieszka , Weber-Rajek Magdalena , Strojek Katarzyna , Goch Aleksander
Published: March 2016

Many new definitions, classifications and ways of treating cerebral palsy (CP) have been identified within the last few years. Numerous tools determining the functional condition of children suffering from CP were developed, however, the ones which were approachable, were modified accordingly. Currently applied classifications take into account participation in a social life, activity ,as well as secondary alterations. The majority of results obtained from worldwide clinical research conducted in a group of children with CP are based on popular tests. The main aim of this paper is to show and analyse the crucial scales used for the functional assessment of children with the CP by taking into consideration the age and activity of patients and reliability of classifications.
Proteomics of Sphingobium indicum B90A for a deeper understanding of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) bioremediation
Authors: Nandavaram Aparna , Sagar Annapoorni Lakshman , Madikonda Ashok Kumar , Siddavattam Dayananda
Published: March 2016

Genome wide expression profiling of Sphingobium indicum B90A revealed induction of lin genes, linA and linB, involved in dechlorination of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), in the presence of all four isomers of HCH. Supporting proteomics data, the qPCR and promoter assay showed upregulation of linA transcription in the presence of HCH isomers. Analysis of the upstream region of the linA gene revealed the existence of the GntR binding site overlapping the -10 hexamer of the putative promoter motif. As GntR is a known transcription repressor its dissociation from the linA promoter is expected to induce lin genes in the presence of HCH isomers. Comparison of in situ and in-culture proteomics indicated expression lin genes at the dumpsite, an indication for the in situ HCH degradation.
Applications of biocomposite materials based on natural fibers from renewable resources: a review
Authors: Bharath Kurki Nagaraj , Basavarajappa Satyappa
Published: March 2016

Biocomposites (natural fiber composites) from local and renewable resources offer significant sustainability; industrial ecology, eco-efficiency, and green chemistry are guiding the development of the next generation of materials, products, and processes. Considerable growth has been seen in the use of biocomposites in the domestic sector, building materials, aerospace industry, circuit boards, and automotive applications over the past decade, but application in other sectors until now has been limited. Nevertheless, with suitable development, the potential exists for biocomposites to enter new markets and thus stimulate an increase in demand. Many types of natural fibers have been investigated with polymer matrices to produce composite materials that are competitive with synthetic fiber composites which require special attention. The agricultural wastes can be used to prepare fiber-reinforced polymer composites for commercial use and have marketing appeal. The growing global environmental and social concern, high percentage of exhaustion of petroleum resources, and new environmental regulations have forced the search for new composites, compatible with the environment. Many references to the current status of research work on the applications of biocomposites are cited in this review.
La traduction et le fascisme : quelques réflexions à partir des théories de Croce et Gentile
Authors: Agostini-Ouafi Viviana
Published: March 2016

This paper focuses on the vitality of the translation market in fascist Italy, despite the censorship affecting primarily Gramsci as a translator and theorist of translation, and, starting from the 1920 polemic between the idealist philosophers Croce and Gentile, it studies the theories emerging between the two world wars. The anti-fascist Croce denies the possibility of translating in the name of an aristocratic and romantic idea of art, and thus pushes critics in his camp, such as Debenedetti, to resort to different paths. Although Gentile claims to embody the fascist intellectual, his view on art is in contradiction with his view on power: subjective deconstruction and state authoritarianism, interpretive freedom and ideological violence coexist to the point where his reflections on translation get absurdly close to Benjamin’s.
A novel potentiometric sensor based on urease/ bovine serum albumin-poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/Pt for urea detection
Authors: Hsu Chien-Hsing , Hsu Ya-Wei , Weng Yu-Ching
Published: March 2016

We have presented a potentiometric urea sensor using an urease/bovine serum albumin (BSA)-poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)(PEDOT)/Pt electrode. A urea detection sensitivity of 15.2 mV/decade (order of magnitude) has been achieved. BSA trapped in the PEDOT matrix was employed to bond urease molecules on the surface of a BSA-PEDOT/Pt electrode via amide bonds formed between the carboxyl functional groups on the enzyme and the amines on the BSA. The effects of PEDOT thickness, pH value of the urea solution, urease concentration, and temperature on the urea detection sensitivity were also studied. The lifetime of the sensor was studied for a period of 10 weeks, and the average sensing degradation rate was about 9 % per week. This sensor displayed a high selectivity to urea over glucose, KCl, and NaCl.
A Genetic Map for the Only Self-Fertilizing Vertebrate
Authors: Kanamori Akira , Sugita Yosuke , Yuasa Yasufumi , Suzuki Takamasa , Kawamura Kouichi , Uno Yoshinobu , Kamimura Katsuyasu , Matsuda Yoichi , Wilson Catherine A , Amores Angel , Postlethwait John H , Suga Koushirou , Sakakura Yoshitaka
Published: March 2016

The mangrove killifish Kryptolebias marmoratus, and its close relative Kryptolebias hermaphroditus, are the only vertebrate species known to reproduce by self-fertilization due to functional ovotestis development. To improve our understanding of their genomes, we constructed a genetic map. First, a single F1 fish was made by artificial fertilization between K. marmoratus and K. hermaphroditus strains. F2 progeny were then obtained by self-fertilization of the F1 fish. We used RAD-seq to query genomic DNAs from the two parental strains, the F1 individual and 49 F2 progeny. Results identified 9904 polymorphic RAD-tags (DNA markers) that mapped to 24 linkage groups, corresponding to the haploid chromosome number of these species. The total length of the map was 1248 cM, indicating that about one recombination occurred for each of the 24 homologous chromosome pairs in each meiosis. Markers were not evenly distributed along the chromosomes: in all chromosomes, many markers (> 8% of the total markers for each chromosome) mapped to chromosome tips. Centromeres suppress recombination, and this uneven distribution is probably due to the species’ acrocentric chromosomes. Mapped marker sequences were compared to genomic sequences of medaka and platyfish, the next most closely related species with sequenced genomes that are anchored to genetic maps. Results showed that each mangrove killifish chromosome corresponds to a single chromosome of both platyfish and medaka, suggesting strong conservation of chromosomes over 100 million years of evolution. Our genetic map provides a framework for the K. marmoratus/K. hermaphroditus genome sequence and an important resource for understanding the biology of hermaphroditism.
Comparative and Transcriptome Analyses Uncover Key Aspects of Coding- and Long Noncoding RNAs in Flatworm Mitochondrial Genomes
Authors: Ross Eric , Blair David , Guerrero-Hernández Carlos , Alvarado Alejandro Sánchez
Published: March 2016

Exploiting the conservation of various features of mitochondrial genomes has been instrumental in resolving phylogenetic relationships. Despite extensive sequence evidence, it has not previously been possible to conclusively resolve some key aspects of flatworm mitochondrial genomes, including generally conserved traits, such as start codons, noncoding regions, the full complement of tRNAs, and whether ATP8 is, or is not, encoded by this extranuclear genome. In an effort to address these difficulties, we sought to determine the mitochondrial transcriptomes and genomes of sexual and asexual taxa of freshwater triclads, a group previously poorly represented in flatworm mitogenomic studies. We have discovered evidence for an alternative start codon, an extended cox1 gene, a previously undescribed conserved open reading frame, long noncoding RNAs, and a highly conserved gene order across the large evolutionary distances represented within the triclads. Our findings contribute to the expansion and refinement of mitogenomics to address evolutionary issues in this diverse group of animals.
Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies Candidate Genes and Gene Sets Controlling the Response of Porcine Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells to Poly I:C Stimulation
Authors: Wang Jiying , Wang Yanping , Wang Huaizhong , Wang Haifei , Liu Jian-Feng , Wu Ying , Guo Jianfeng
Published: March 2016

Polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C), a synthetic dsRNA analog, has been demonstrated to have stimulatory effects similar to viral dsRNA. To gain deep knowledge of the host transcriptional response of pigs to poly I:C stimulation, in the present study, we cultured and stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of piglets of one Chinese indigenous breed (Dapulian) and one modern commercial breed (Landrace) with poly I:C, and compared their transcriptional profiling using RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq). Our results indicated that poly I:C stimulation can elicit significantly differentially expressed (DE) genes in Dapulian (g = 290) as well as Landrace (g = 85). We also performed gene set analysis using the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) package, and identified some significantly enriched gene sets in Dapulian (g = 18) and Landrace (g = 21). Most of the shared DE genes and gene sets were immune-related, and may play crucial rules in the immune response of poly I:C stimulation. In addition, we detected large sets of significantly DE genes and enriched gene sets when comparing the gene expression profile between the two breeds, including control and poly I:C stimulation groups. Besides immune-related functions, some of the DE genes and gene sets between the two breeds were involved in development and growth of various tissues, which may be correlated with the different characteristics of the two breeds. The DE genes and gene sets detected herein provide crucial information towards understanding the immune regulation of antiviral responses, and the molecular mechanisms of different genetic resistance to viral infection, in modern and indigenous pigs.
Chicken gga-miR-103-3p Targets CCNE1 and TFDP2 and Inhibits MDCC-MSB1 Cell Migration
Authors: Han Bo , Lian Ling , Li Xin , Zhao Chunfang , Qu Lujiang , Liu Changjun , Song Jiuzhou , Yang Ning
Published: March 2016

Marek’s disease (MD) is a highly contagious viral neoplastic disease caused by Marek’s disease virus (MDV), which can lead to huge economic losses in the poultry industry. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been found in various cancers and tumors. In recent years, 994 mature miRNAs have been identified through deep sequencing in chickens, but only a few miRNAs have been investigated further in terms of their function. Previously, gga-miR-103-3p was found downregulated in MDV-infected samples by using Solexa deep sequencing. In this study, we further verified the expression of gga-miR-103-3p among MDV-infected spleen, MD lymphoma from liver, noninfected spleen, and noninfected liver, by qPCR. The results showed that the expression of gga-miR-103-3p was decreased in MDV-infected tissues, which was consistent with our previous study. Furthermore, two target genes of gga-miR-103-3p, cyclin E1 (CCNE1) and transcription factor Dp-2 (E2F dimerization partner 2) (TFDP2), were predicted and validated by luciferase reporter assay, qPCR, and western blot analysis. The results suggested that CCNE1 and TFDP2 are direct targets of gga-miR-103-3p in chickens. Subsequent cell proliferation and migration assay showed that gga-miR-103-3p suppressed MDCC-MSB1 migration, but did not obviously modulate MDCC-MSB1 cell proliferation. In conclusion, gga-miR-103-3p targets the CCNE1 and TFDP2 genes, and suppresses cell migration, which indicates that it might play an important role in MD tumor transformation.
EVALUATION OF CHITINOLYTIC GUT MICROBIOTA IN SOME CARPS AND OPTIMIZATION OF CULTURE CONDITIONS FOR CHITINASE PRODUCTION BY THE SELECTED BACTERIA
Authors: Banerjee Sudeshna , Mukherjee Anjan , Dutta and Koushik Ghosh Dipanjan
Published: March 2016

Present study was aimed at isolation of autochthonous chitinase-producing bacteria from the gastrointestinal tracts of 3 Indian Major Carps (Labeo rohita, Catla catla, Cirrhinus mrigala) and 3 exotic carps (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cyprinus carpio). Altogether, 119 bacteria were isolated from both the proximal and distal intestine and screened for chitinolytic activity. On the basis of chitin hydrolysis zone, 63 isolates were primarily selected for chitinase production, from which 34 potent strains were further studied for quantitative enzyme assay. Amongst them, the strains HMH1 and CMF2 exhibited potent chitinolytic activity and were identified as Bacillus pumilus (KF454036) and Bacillus flexus (KF454035), respectively by 16S rRNA partial gene sequence analysis. Optimization of various fermentation parameters (e.g., temperature, pH, inoculums size, surfactant, colloidal chitin concentration, incubation time, carbon sources, organic and inorganic nitrogen sources) were carried out in chitinase production medium. Incubation for 72 h at 350C and initial pH 7.5 revealed optimum chitinase productions by B. pumilus HMH1 in the media supplemented with colloidal chitin 0.1% (w/v), maltose 2% (w/v), ammonium sulphate 1.0% (w/v) and Tween-80 0.2% (v/v). However, B. flexus CMF2 required 48 h incubation at 35°C and initial pH 8.0 with colloidal chitin 0.15% (w/v), sucrose 1% (w/v), yeast extract 2.0% (w/v) and Tween-20 0.2% (v/v) supplementation for optimum yield. The results indicate that there is ample scope for further research to appraise fish gut microorganisms for chitinase production or as probiotics to improve feed efficiency in fish.
DEVELOPMENT OF A PRESERVATION TECHNIQUE FOR STRAWBERRY FRUIT (FRAGARIA × ANANASSA DUCH.) BY USING AQUEOUS CHLORINE DIOXIDE
Authors: Chen Zhao
Published: March 2016

Effects of aqueous chlorine dioxide (ClO2) treatment on preserving strawberry fruit (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) were investigated. A stabilized ClO2 powder was dissolved in water to prepare the ClO2 solution. Strawberry fruit were then rinsed with ClO2 solutions at different concentrations (20, 40, 60, and 80 mg/L) for different times (5, 10, and 15 min) at 22±2℃ and 70±5% RH. Following ClO2 treatments, strawberries were stored at 4℃ for 9 days. ClO2 could markedly delay changes in firmness, slow down weight loss, and decay, and maintain sensory quality of strawberry fruit. ClO2 was also effective in retention of ascorbic acid, reducing sugar, and titratable acid. ClO2 concentration and treatment time were two significant factors (P
SEASONAL VARIATION OF SOME SPERM PARAMETERS IN BOARS HOUSED IN STANDARDIZED CONDITIONS
Authors: Ibănescu Iulian , Roşca Petru , Sfartz Ioana , Pavel Gelu , Drugociu Dan
Published: March 2016

Spermatogenesis in boar can be influenced by many factors, which will determine a variation of seminal parameters. A better knowledge of the opportunities to control the variation of semen quantity and quality can increase the efficiency of swine reproduction units.
The aim of this study was to examine the seasonal variation of semen, in order to offer a solution against “seasonal infertility” in pigs.
The study was conducted on a number of 537 ejaculates, from 31 Pietrain boars housed in standardized conditions in terms of temperature, humidity and light schedule.
Semen was collected by manual method, and examined using the beaker, and CASA system (CEROS II).
The results, expressed as mean values, were as following: Volume showed higher values in the summer (218.7 ml) and lower in the autumn (155.7 ml); Total number of spermatozoa/ejaculate was higher in the summer (95.9×109) and lower in the winter (74.3×109); Semen concentration was higher in the autumn (571.6×106/ml) and lower in the summer (454.8×106/ml); Total number of motile spermatozoa/ejaculate showed higher values in summer (79.5×109) and lower in winter (65.4×109); % of Total motility was higher in the winter (87.9%) and lower in the summer (82.3%); Total number of progressive spermatozoa/ejaculate was higher in summer (52.7×109) and lower in autumn (44.2×109); % of Progressive motility was higher in winter (61.4%) and lower in autumn (52.3%).
The results contradict those of other authors, who studied the semen from boars held in classic conditions. This fact suggests that the standardization of exploitation conditions of boars by maintaining a controlled climate in the farm can reduce the effects of heat stress on spermatogenesis during summer, offering a great opportunity against seasonal infertility and high variations of semen parameters during a year.
ANTOXIDANT ACTIVITY AND PHENOLICS COMPOSITION IN STEVIA REBAUDIANA PLANTS OF DIFFERENT ORGIN
Authors: Sytar Oksana , Borankulova Asel , Shevchenko Yaroslav , Wendt Alexandra , Smetanska Iryna
Published: March 2016

The antioxidant activity and total phenolic contents in leaves and leaf extracts of Stevia plants grown under the different conditions of Egypt, India, Paraguay, Greece and Spain were studied. The moderate levels of total phenolics (from 5.64 to 6.45 mg mL-1) was found in Stevia leaf extracts from Egypt, India and Greece which can depend from the climate conditions during growing season of Stevia plants. High amounts of total phenolics contained leaves of Stevia plants from Paraguay and Spain (from 8.69 to 9.44 mg mL-1). The antioxidant activity in Stevia plants from Paraguay was about 46% and from Spain about 57%. The individual profile of phenolic acids differed between samples, Stevia leaf extracts from Greece, Spain and Paraguay has been shown the high contents of caffeic acid (29.9, 22.1 3 and 16.2 µM mL-1 respectively) and catechin (52.9, 64.2 and 48.1 µM mL-1) as compared to samples from Egypt and India. In these variants were present the high content of steviolbioside and RT 21 too. In same time another redistribution quantity of identified phenolics compounds in their composition compared with all experimental samples has been presented in the Stevia leaves from Greece. In leaf extract from Greece quantity of steviolbioside was less on 50% compared with variants of leaf extracts from India and Spain.
Rebound Growth of Infantile Hemangiomas After Propranolol Therapy
Authors: Shah Sonal D. , Baselga Eulalia , McCuaig Catherine , Pope Elena , Coulie Julien , Boon Laurence M. , Garzon Maria C. , Haggstrom Anita N. , Adams Denise , Drolet Beth A. , Newell Brandon D. , Powell Julie , García-Romero Maria Teresa , Chute Carol , Roe Esther , Siegel Dawn H. , Grimes Barbara , Frieden Ilona J.
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Propranolol is first-line therapy for problematic infantile hemangiomas (IHs). Rebound growth after propranolol discontinuation is noted in 19% to 25% of patients. Predictive factors for rebound are not completely understood and may alter the management approach. The goal of the study was to describe a cohort of patients with IHs treated with propranolol and to identify predictors for rebound growth.

METHODS:

A multicenter retrospective cohort study was conducted in patients with IHs treated with propranolol. Patient demographic characteristics, IH characteristics, and specifics of propranolol therapy were obtained. Episodes of rebound growth were recorded. Patients’ responses to propranolol were evaluated through a visual analog scale.

RESULTS:

A total of 997 patients were enrolled. The incidence of rebound growth was 231 of 912 patients (25.3%). Mean age at initial rebound was 17.1 months. The odds of rebound among those who discontinued therapy at <9 months was 2.4 (odds ratio [OR]: 2.4; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3 to 4.5; P = .004) compared with those who discontinued therapy between 12 to 15 months of life. Female gender, location on head and neck, segmental pattern, and deep or mixed skin involvement were associated with rebound on univariate analysis. With multivariate analysis, only deep IHs (OR: 3.3; 95% CI: 1.9 to 6.0; P < .001) and female gender (OR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.1 to 2.6; P = .03) were associated. Of those with rebound growth, 83% required therapeutic modification including 62% of patients with modifications in their propranolol therapy.

CONCLUSIONS:

Rebound growth occurred in 25% of patients, requiring modification of systemic therapy in 15%. Predictive factors for rebound growth included age of discontinuation, deep IH component, and female gender. Patients with these predictive factors may require a prolonged course of therapy.
NEUTRONIC PERFORMANCE OF (U, Pu)C FUEL IN A LATTICE OF GFR USING SCALE 6.0
Authors: Macedo A. A. P. , Velasquez Carlos E. , da Silva C. A. M. , Pereira C.
Published: March 2016

This paper studies the performance of (U, Pu)C fuel in a hexagonal assembly of a GFR (Gas Fast Reactor). The SCALE 6.0 (Standardized Computer Analysis for Licensing Evaluation version 6.0) code was used in the calculation. The goal is to evaluate the behavior of the infinite multiplication factor (kinf) for a heterogeneous assembly model using four nuclear data libraries: V6-238, V7-238, ENDF/B-VI.8 and ENDF/B-VII.0. The burnup of (U, Pu)C was performed by the TRITON-6 module, and the isotopic concentrations were evaluated during the cycle. The present work comprises calculations at Zero Power and Full Power condition. This study intends to achieve more information about different Fast Reactors.
Application of Laser Capture Microdissection to Craniofacial Biology: Characterization of Anatomically Relevant Gene Expression in Normal and Craniosynostotic Rabbit Sutures
Authors: Rottgers S. Alex , Gallo Phillip , Gilbert James , Macisaac Zoe , Cray James , Smith Darren M. , Mooney Mark P. , Losee Joseph , Kathju Sandeep , Cooper Gregory
Published: March 2016

Objective

Fusion of the cranial sutures is thought to depend on signaling among perisutural tissues. Mapping regional variations in gene expression would improve current models of craniosynostosis. Laser capture microdissection (LCM) isolates discrete cell populations for gene expression analysis. LCM has rarely been used in the study of mineralized tissue. This study sought to evaluate the potential use of LCM for mapping of regional gene expression within the cranial suture.

Design

Coronal sutures were isolated from 10-day-old wild-type and craniosynostotic (CS) New Zealand White rabbits, and LCM was used to isolate RNA from the sutural ligament (SL), osteogenic fronts (OF), dura mater, and periosteum. Relative expression levels for Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF2), Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 2 (FGFR2), Transforming Growth Factor Beta 2 (TGFβ-2), Transforming Growth Factor Beta 3 (TGFβ-3), Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (BMP-2), Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 (BMP-4), and Noggin were determined using quantitative real-time PCR.

Results

A fivefold increase in TGFβ2 expression was detected in the CS SL relative to wild type, whereas 152-fold less TGFβ-3 was detected within the OF of CS animals. Noggin expression was increased by 10-fold within the CS SL, but reduced by 13-fold within the CS dura. Reduced expression of FGF2 was observed within the CS SL and dura, whereas increased expression of FGFR2 was observed within the CS SL. Reduced expression of BMP-2 was observed in the CS periosteum, and elevated expression of BMP-4 was observed in the CS SL and dura.

Conclusions

LCM provides an effective tool for measuring regional variations in cranial suture gene expression. More precise measurements of regional gene expression with LCM may facilitate efforts to correlate gene expression with suture morphogenesis and pathophysiology.
Influence of Various Environmental Factors on Seed Germination and Seedling Emergence of a Noxious Environmental Weed: Green Galenia (Galenia pubescens)
Authors: Mahmood Ako H. , Florentine Singarayer K. , Chauhan Bhagirath S. , McLaren David A , Palmer Grant C. , Wright Wendy
Published: March 2016

Green galenia is a South African woody prostrate perennial that was first recorded in Australia in the early 1900s and has since become a serious threat to indigenous temperate grasslands and surrounding agricultural areas. Laboratory and field based experiments were conducted to examine the effect of environmental factors on the germination and viability of green galenia seed. It was shown that green galenia was able to germinate over a broad range of temperatures, but short bursts (5 min) of high temperatures (80 C to 120 C replicating possible exposures to a fire) reduced seed germination. Seed germination was positively favored by light, declined rapidly in darkness, and decreased by > 80% at a depth of only 0.5 cm in soil. Water stress greatly reduced seed germination (45% germination at osmotic potentials below −0.2 MPa). Germination was completely inhibited at water potentials of −0.4 to −1.0 MPa. This species is moderately tolerant to salinity, with over 50% of seeds germinating at low levels of salinity (60 mM NaCl), and moderate germination (49%) occurring at 120 mM NaCl, it can germinate well in both alkaline (pH 10–83%) and acidic (pH 4–80%) conditions. The results of this study have contributed to our understanding of the germination and emergence of green galenia, and this will assist in developing tools and strategies for the long term management of this noxious weed in Victoria and other parts of Australia.
Exploring impacts of climate change on UK’s ICT infrastructure
Authors: Fu Gaihua , Horrocks Lisa , Winne Sarah
Published: March 2016

Information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure plays a critical role in many aspects of the society. While ICTs contribute to climate-related responses and adaptive practices, much less is known about the impacts that climate change may have on ICT itself. Drawing on knowledge in the literature and findings elicited from industrial workshop conversations and case studies, this paper attempts to provide a review of available evidence of climate impacts on the UK’s ICT infrastructure. This research shows that, although ICTs are resilient to climate impacts, in part due to the rapid refresh rate of equipment, ICTs are vulnerable to a number of future climate risks. The criticality of ICTs to other infrastructure sectors implies that any disruption to ICTs could result in multisectoral cascade failures. This paper also explores the potential for strategies to adapt ICTs to be more resilient to extreme weather and changes in climate, discusses some of the opportunities that climate change may offer and identifies some areas for further research.
Ultrathin graphene tribofilm formation during wear of Al2O3–graphene composites
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Nieto Andy , Agarwal Arvind
Published: March 2016

Graphene nanoplatelet (GNP)-reinforced aluminum oxide (Al2O3) composites were sintered by spark plasma sintering in three different compositions (0, 0·5, 5 vol.% GNPs). To investigate the effects of graphene addition on the composites’ wear resistance, ball-on-disk wear tests were conducted under very high normal load (40 N) by using a 3-mm-dia. ceramic counterface. Aluminum oxide–0·5 vol.% GNP exhibited 65% improvement in the wear resistance, while aluminum oxide–5 vol.% GNP displayed 53% poorer wear resistance as compared with aluminum oxide. The coefficient of friction was 0·45 for aluminum oxide–0·5 vol.% GNP, 0·40 for aluminum oxide–5 vol.% GNP and 0·60 for aluminum oxide. The highest wear resistance of aluminum oxide–0·5 vol.% GNP is attributed to formation of a continuous, protective and ultrathin graphene tribofilm on the wear surface. Tribofilm formation occurs due to the high shear forces induced by countersurface movement and localized heating, which causes GNP’s delamination, overlap and welding together. In the case of aluminum oxide–5 vol.% GNP, poor dispersion and agglomeration of GNP results in a thick and discontinuous graphene tribofilm, which does not protect from the brittle fracture of aluminum oxide grains during wear.
CUIDADOS DE ENFERMAGEM NA RESSONÂNCIA MAGNÉTICA CARDÍACA
Authors: Vieira Dias Washington Luiz , Pitangueira Barros Thomas
Published: March 2016

A ressonância magnética cardíaca é um método diagnóstico que fornece informação morfofuncional em uma vasta gama de patologias do sistema cardiovascular. Por ser um exame complexo, de várias fases, torna-se relevante o papel da enfermagem na ressonância magnética cardíaca. O presente estudo tem como objetivo demonstrar as atribuições da equipe de enfermagem nos exames de ressonância magnética cardíaca como forma de garantir uma assistência específica e segura ao paciente. A metodologia utilizada foi uma revisão integrativa de caráter exploratório e do tipo descritivo utilizando as bases de dados científicos LILACS, SCIELO, MEDLINE, BDENF e PUBMED, extraindo periódicos publicados recentemente disponíveis na íntegra em português e inglês. Como conclusão o enfermeiro desempenha um papel fundamental em garantir a qualidade da assistência e a segurança do paciente em todos os aspectos relacionados ao exame de ressonância magnética cardiovascular.
SISTEMATIZAÇÃO DA ASSISTÊNCIA DE ENFERMAGEM: DESAFIOS PARA A IMPLANTAÇÃO
Authors: Marinelli Natália Pereira , Silva Allynne Rosane Almeida , Silva Déborah Nayane Oliveira
Published: March 2016

O objetivo desse trabalho é analisar as dificuldades encontradas para a sua execução, a fim de modificar e conscientizar a equipe de enfermagem envolvida no processo de cuidar sobre a necessidade de implantar a SAE em todos os serviços de saúde. Foram acionadas as bases de dados Lilacs, Medline, BDENF e encontrados 26 artigos e 16 livros sobre o tema, tendo como critérios para a busca as palavras obstáculos, ou desafios à implantação da sistematização da assistência de enfermagem. Na análise desses artigos, percebeu-se que a finalidade de implantar a sistematização da assistência de enfermagem visa a organização do cuidado a partir de um método sistemático. Dessa forma, a SAE apresenta-se como um desafio, o que indica a necessidade de novas investigações para que ocorra o aprimoramento contínuo da prática de enfermagem.
Effectiveness of Rotary Endodontic Instruments on Smear Layer Removal in Root Canals of Primary Teeth: A Scanning Electron Microscopy Study
Authors: Subramaniam Priya , Girish Babu KL , Tabrez TA
Published: March 2016

Aim : The present SEM study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of root canal instrumentation using both manual and rotary files in the root canals of primary anterior teeth. Study design: Thirty freshly extracted primary maxillary incisors were divided into 3 groups of 10 teeth each. In Group I, root canals were instrumented with rotary NiTi files; in Group II, the root canals were instrumented using manual NiTi K files and; in Group III, manual instrumentation was done with stainless steel K files. Longitudinal sections were prepared and processed for observation under SEM at the coronal, middle and apical thirds. Scoring of smear layer was done according to Hulsmann and the data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis. Results: Rotary files cleaned the coronal and middle thirds of root canals more effectively. Statistically there was no significant difference between the groups. Lowest score of 2.6 in the apical third of root canals was seen with hand NiTi files. Conclusion: Rotary instrumentation was as effective as manual instrumentation in removal of smear layer in the root canals of primary anterior teeth.
Deep Sedation for Pediatric Dental Procedures: Is this a Safe and Effective Option?
Authors: Ahmed Sheikh Sohail , Hicks Shawn R , Slaven James E , Nitu Mara E
Published: March 2016

Objective: Sedation may be needed for safe, effective completion of pediatric dental procedures. Procedural sedation is performed in a children's hospital based dental office. The three sedation approaches: a propofolonly (P-O) approach (2–3mg/kg titrated to the needed level of sedation), an approach that includes either IV ketamine (K+P) (0.25 or 0.5mg/kg) or IV fentanyl (F+P) (0.5–1mcg/kg) prior to propofol administration. We sought to determine safety and efficacy of various propofol based sedation protocols. Study Design: Retrospective review of 222 patients receiving a propofol-only (P-O), ketamine+propofol (K+P) or fentanyl+propofol (F+P) approach. Results: There were 44 patients in P-O group, 154 in K+P group and 24 in F+P group with mean age (4.8±3.4y) and mean weight (19.7±6.7kg). All the patients completed procedures successfully. Mild hypoxemia occurred in 24% of cases and resolved with nasal cannula. Mean total dose of propofol was similar in all groups (P-O 8.2mg/kg, K+P 9.5mg/kg, F+P 9.6mg/kg, p=0.15). Although procedure and recovery times were similar in all groups, discharge times in K+P group were significantly shorter than P-O group and F+P group respectively (K+P 9.35±8.93.min, P-O 13.57±10.42min, F+P 10.42±4.40 p= 0.002). Conclusion: Sedation can be accomplished safely and effectively in a children's hospital based dental office using propofol-based sedation.
The "Re-Invention" of Personal Assistance Services
Authors: Glazier Raymond
Published: March 2016

No abstract available
The Artful Stigma
Authors: Peace William
Published: March 2016

Most forms of body alteration, from dressing to the most extreme forms of soft tissue body modification, are mechanisms of social communication that have clearly defined and broadly understood aesthetic and cultural meanings. The presence of disabled and tattooed people, however, violate social norms and call into question basic cultural conceptions of the body in Western society. The author maintains that tattooed and disabled people have much in common. Historically, both have been exhibited as freaks and been the subject of derision and pity. Likewise, the last decade has witnessed sweeping changes in both communities and because of this represent an ideal metaphor for understanding core elements of human culture. That is, they represent society reduced to its simplest expression and highlight the fact they are in a constant battle against social and personal invisibility.
Liminality and Disability: Rites of Passage and Community in Hypermodern Society
Authors: Willett Jeffrey , Deegan MaryJo
Published: March 2016

Physical disability functions in modern society as a status betwixt and between everyday assumptions about "normal" physical strength and functioning. This creates a situation of permanent liminality, or a failure to be incorporated, in hypermodern society especially in the economic marketplace and architectural construction of everyday life and movement. Turning to more traditional societies to interpret liminality and rites of passage helps contemporary people with disabilities interpret their social status and its problematic, powerful construction.
Out of Place in Sheltered Housing? Insider and Outsider Perspectives
Authors: Levy Susan
Published: March 2016

No abstract available
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Authors: Editor The
Published: March 2016

No abstract available