bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renewable Energy Technology Selection Problem Using Integrated H-SWARA-MULTIMOORA Approach
Authors: Ijadi Maghsoodi Abteen , Ijadi Maghsoodi Arta , Mosavi Amir , Rabczuk Timon , Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras
Published: November 2018

Due to the adaptation of recent pollution mitigation and justification policies there has been a growing trend for electricity generation from various renewable resources. The selection of the optimal renewable energy technology could be measured as a complex problem due to the complication of forthcoming circumstances in any country. Consequently, the proposed similar complex assessment problem can be tackled with the support of Multiple Attribute Decision Making (MADM) methods. The current research study investigates a technology selection problem by proposing a hybrid MADM approach based on the Step-Wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) approach with a hierarchical arrangement combined with the Multi-Objective Optimization on the basis of Ratio Analysis plus the full MULTIplicative form (MULTIMOORA). Ultimately, a conceptual case study regarding the selection of the optimal renewable energy technology based on a conceptual development project in Iran has been examined by the proposed combinative MADM methodology.
A Simplified Model for Assembly Precision Information of Complex Products Based on Tolerance Semantic Relations
Authors: Shi Xiaolin , Tian Xitian , Wang Gangfeng , Zhang Min , Zhao Dongping
Published: November 2018

Assembly precision analysis (APA) plays an important role in the whole life cycle of complex products design, manufacturing, assembly and even remanufacturing. Assembly precision information model (APIM) is usually complex since it is affected by many factors, such as design tolerance of parts, assembly process scheme, assembly sequence planning and tolerance of positioning tooling, etc. Therefore, it is of practical significance for APA to reasonably reduce the workload of assembly precision information (API) modeling. A semantic simplification approach for APIM is proposed in this paper, which mainly takes semantic relations between APIM and design tolerance of parts into consideration. Initially, ontology of structure knowledge of APIM is constructed according to a tolerance standard. Furthermore, simplification rules are respectively established by considering two semantic relations: one semantic relation between deviation change direction and deviation accumulation direction and the other semantic relation among multiple geometric characteristics on the same geometric feature. Additionally, by utilizing ontology reasoning function, the simplified semantic APIM is generated. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated by a practical example of engine front auxiliary drive equipment. It is expected that our work would lay the foundation for APA of complex products based on actual measured data.
A Comprehensive Review of Backfill Materials and Their Effects on Ground Heat Exchanger Performance
Authors: Javadi Hossein , Mousavi Ajarostaghi Seyed Soheil , Rosen Marc A. , Pourfallah Mohsen
Published: November 2018

Geothermal energy systems can help in achieving an environmentally friendly and more efficient energy utilization, as well as enhanced power generation and building heating/cooling, thereby making energy systems more sustainable. The role of the backfill material, which fills the space between a pipe and the surrounding soil, is important in the operation of ground heat exchangers. Among the review articles on parameters affecting ground heat exchanger performance published over the past eight years, only two discuss types of backfill materials, even though the importance of these materials is significant. However, no review has yet been published exclusively on the kinds of backfill materials used in ground heat exchangers. This article addresses this need by providing a comprehensive review of a variety of types of backfill materials and their effects on ground heat exchanger performance. For organizational purposes, the backfill materials are divided into two categories: conventional backfill materials (pure and mixed materials) and modern backfill materials (improved phase change materials). Both categories are described in detail. It is shown that bentonite has been used considerably as a conventional backfill material in ground heat exchangers, followed by silica sand and coarse/fine sand. Moreover, acid and shape-stabilized phase change materials have been applied mostly as modern backfill materials in ground heat exchangers. It is observed, generally, that conventional backfill materials are used more than modern backfill materials in ground heat exchangers. It should be noted that the data covered in this study are not from all the articles published in the last eight years, but rather from a subset based on specific criteria (i.e., English-language papers published in reputable journals). These articles were published by authors from numerous countries. The results may, as a consequence, have some corresponding limitations, but these are likely to be minor.
New Insights on Moojase, a Thrombin-Like Serine Protease from Bothrops moojeni Snake Venom
Authors: Amorim Fernanda G. , Menaldo Danilo L. , Carone Sante E. I. , Silva Thiago A. , Sartim Marco A. , De Pauw Edwin , Quinton Loic , Sampaio Suely V.
Published: November 2018

Snake venom serine proteases (SVSPs) are enzymes that are capable of interfering in various parts of the blood coagulation cascade, which makes them interesting candidates for the development of new therapeutic drugs. Herein, we isolated and characterized Moojase, a potent coagulant enzyme from Bothrops moojeni snake venom. The toxin was isolated from the crude venom using a two-step chromatographic procedure. Moojase is a glycoprotein with N-linked glycans, molecular mass of 30.3 kDa and acidic character (pI 5.80–6.88). Sequencing of Moojase indicated that it is an isoform of Batroxobin. Moojase was able to clot platelet-poor plasma and fibrinogen solutions in a dose-dependent manner, indicating thrombin-like properties. Moojase also rapidly induced the proteolysis of the Aα chains of human fibrinogen, followed by the degradation of the Bβ chains after extended periods of incubation, and these effects were inhibited by PMSF, SDS and DTT, but not by benzamidine or EDTA. RP-HPLC analysis of its fibrinogenolysis confirmed the main generation of fibrinopeptide A. Moojase also induced the fibrinolysis of fibrin clots formed in vitro, and the aggregation of washed platelets, as well as significant amidolytic activity on substrates for thrombin, plasma kallikrein, factor Xia, and factor XIIa. Furthermore, thermofluor analyses and the esterase activity of Moojase demonstrated its very high stability at different pH buffers and temperatures. Thus, studies such as this for Moojase should increase knowledge on SVSPs, allowing their bioprospection as valuable prototypes in the development of new drugs, or as biotechnological tools.
The Impact of Economic Crisis in Areas of Sprawl in Spanish Cities
Authors: García-Coll Arlinda , López-Villanueva Cristina
Published: November 2018

The development of dispersed urbanism in Spain ran parallel to the real estate boom and consolidated a new model of city sprawl based on the expansion of suburban areas. This process, which started in the mid 1980s, came to a halt with the onset of the economic crisis in 2007. With it, construction stopped, mobility fell, and urban growth came to a standstill. The purpose of this article is, firstly, to analyse the recent evolution and chronology of the expansion of dispersed urbanism in the Barcelona Metropolitan Region (BMR) in order to gain an insight into some of its explanatory factors, and secondly, to look into the future middle-term prospects of dispersed urbanism in the BMR and Spain. To this end, we examine trends in the housing market and residential mobility and take stock of the impact of business cycles on them. The conclusion is that dispersed areas still retain their appeal for people in the life stages of the creation and expansion of households. For this reason, an effective economic recovery and a renewed rise in the price of housing in denser cities may contribute to an upturn in the popularity of the dispersed residential model, which nowadays could be considered to be in a ‘lethargic’ phase, waiting for certain factors to concur and reactivate its expansion.
A Subunit Vaccine Based on E2 Protein of Atypical Porcine Pestivirus Induces Th2-type Immune Response in Mice
Authors: Zhang Huawei , Wen Wei , Hao Genxi , Chen Huanchun , Qian Ping , Li Xiangmin
Published: November 2018

An atypical porcine pestivirus (APPV) causing congenital tremor type A-II in piglets was identified in China in 2016. An increased number of cases of APPV have been reported in various countries all over the world since 2015. This study aimed to develop an effective subunit vaccine against APPV based on the E2 protein, which is the main immunogenicity protein of APPV. In this study, E2 protein was successfully expressed by the baculovirus expression system. E2 protein was confirmed by Western blot assay, which showed that E2 protein possesses N-linked glycosylation sites. The immunogenicity of E2 subunit vaccine was evaluated in mice. The E2 protein emulsified with ISA 201VG adjuvant induced significantly higher levels of APPV-specific antibodies and elicited stronger lymphocyte proliferative responses and higher interleukin-10 secretion than those of the E2 protein emulsified with IMS 1313VG adjuvant. This observation indicates that the E2 subunit vaccine induces a Th2-type immune response. Our results showed that E2 protein can be developed as a safe and effective subunit vaccine for the control of APPV infection.
Immunocompetent and Immunodeficient Mouse Models for Enterovirus 71 Pathogenesis and Therapy
Authors: Shih Chiaho , Liao Chun-Che , Chang Ya-Shu , Wu Szu-Yao , Chang Chih-Shin , Liou An-Ting
Published: November 2018

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is a global health threat. Children infected with EV71 could develop hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD), encephalitis, paralysis, pulmonary edema, and death. At present, no effective treatment for EV71 is available. We reviewed here various mouse models for EV71 pathogenesis and therapy. Earlier studies relied on the use of mouse-adapted EV71 strains. To avoid artificial mutations arising de novo during the serial passages, recent studies used EV71 clinical isolates without adaptation. Several human receptors for EV71 were shown to facilitate viral entry in cell culture. However, in vivo infection with human SCARB2 receptor transgenic mice appeared to be more limited to certain strains and genotypes of EV71. Efficacy of oral infection in these transgenic models is extremely low. Intriguingly, despite the lack of human receptors, immunodeficient neonatal mouse models can still be infected with EV71 clinical isolates via oral or intraperitoneal routes. Crossbreeding between SCARB2 transgenic and stat1 knockout mice generated a more sensitive and user-friendly hybrid mouse model. Infected hybrid mice developed a higher incidence and earlier onset of CNS disease and death. Different pathogenesis profiles were observed in models deficient in various arms of innate or humoral immunity. These models are being actively used for antiviral research.
Alston Virus, a Novel Paramyxovirus Isolated from Bats Causes Upper Respiratory Tract Infection in Experimentally Challenged Ferrets
Authors: Johnson Rebecca , Tachedjian Mary , Rowe Brenton , Clayton Bronwyn , Layton Rachel , Bergfeld Jemma , Wang Lin-Fa , Smith Ina , Marsh Glenn
Published: November 2018

Multiple viruses with zoonotic potential have been isolated from bats globally. Here we describe the isolation and characterization of a novel paramyxovirus, Alston virus (AlsPV), isolated from urine collected from an Australian pteropid bat colony in Alstonville, New South Wales. Characterization of AlsPV by whole-genome sequencing and analyzing antigenic relatedness revealed it is a rubulavirus that is closely related to parainfluenza virus 5 (PIV5). Intranasal exposure of mice to AlsPV resulted in no clinical signs of disease, although viral RNA was detected in the olfactory bulbs of two mice at 21 days post exposure. Oronasal challenge of ferrets resulted in subclinical upper respiratory tract infection, viral shedding in respiratory secretions, and detection of viral antigen in the olfactory bulb of the brain. These results imply that AlsPV may be similar to PIV5 in its ability to infect multiple mammalian host species. This isolation of a novel paramyxovirus with the potential to transmit from bats to other mammalian species reinforces the importance of continued surveillance of bats as a source of emerging viruses.
Delivering integrated hypertension care at private health facilities in urban Pakistan: a process evaluation
Authors: Khan Muhammad Amir , Walley John D , Khan Nida , Khan Muhammad Ahmar , Ali Saima , King Rebecca , Khan Shaheer Ellahi , Sheikh Faisal Imtiaz , Manzoor Farooq , Khan Haroon Jehangir
Published: November 2018

Background

In Pakistan about 18% of all adults are affected by hypertension, and only one in eight of the prevalent cases have their hypertension controlled. As in many other low-middle income countries, a public–private partnership approach is being considered for delivering non-communicable disease care in urban areas.

Aim

This process evaluation was undertaken to understand how an integrated care intervention was experienced by the care providers and patients, and to inform modifications before possible scaling.

Design & setting

The mixed-methods study was conducted as part of a cluster randomised trial on integrated hypertension care at 26 private clinics.

Method

The care practices were assessed by analysing the clinical records of 1138 registered patients with hypertension. Then semi-structured interviews with service providers and patients were used to understand their respective care experiences. A framework approach was applied to analyse and interpret the qualitative data.

Results

District-led objective selection and context-sensitive staff training helped to get the clinics engaged in partnership working. About one-third of patients with hypertension had associated diabetes or renal compromise. The prescription of drugs is influenced by multiple non-clinical considerations of providers and patients. Many doctors allowed the use of home-based remedies as supplements to the prescribed allopathic drugs. Female patients faced more challenges in managing lifestyle changes. The intervention improved adherence to follow-up visits, but patient attrition remained a challenge.

Conclusion

The integrated hypertension care intervention at private clinics is feasible, and leads to improved diagnosis and treatment in low-income country urban setting. The authors recommend continued implementation research and informed scaling of hypertension care at private clinics.
Structure refinement and genetic aspects of a microcline overgrowth on amazonite from Pikes Peak batholith, Colorado, U.S.A.
Authors: Blasi Achille , Brajkovic Anna , De Pol Blasi Carla , Foord Eugene E. , Martin Robert F. , Zanazzi Pier Francesco
Published: November 2018

A film of white to colorless microcline commonly coats bluish green amazonite in the pocket zone of pegmatites from the Pikes Peak batholith, Colorado, U.S.A. A typical specimen of the overgrowth from the "Ray Ziegler" pocket is virtually free of exsolved Na-rich phase and does not show twins or related structures, but gives sharp diffraction spots indicating structural homogeneity. Major, minor and trace elements, determined by combined microprobe, spectrographic, and atomic absorption analyses to characterize the overgrowth composition, give Or94.3Ab5.2Rbf0.4Cn0.1 in terms of dominant components. Structural and strain indicators derived from lattice constants indicate complete long-range order in the Si,Al distribution among the T sites and virtual absence of strain, respectively. The structure of two selected cleavage fragments was refined to unweighted R values of 0.033 and 0.031 on the basis of 1236 and 1201 diffractions, respectively. Estimates of Al contents of the T sites obtained from  distances correspond to those of a maximum low microcline. The study of this overgrowth contributes to an improved understanding of the nature of fully ordered microcline and also provides insight into the evolution of pocket systems and their host rocks at Pikes Peak. The material investigated may well have formed below the temperature of the monoclinic-triclinic inversion in an open system characterized by efficient circulation of an aqueous fluid medium. Growth in the field of microcline is consistent with the low concentration of Ba and the high concentration of Rb in the overgrowth that formed at the end stage of a protracted history of differentiation of a rift-related basic magma.
The behaviour of the lattice edges of plagioclases and (Ba,K)-feldspars
Authors: Viswanathan Krishnamoorthy
Published: November 2018

The lattice edges, a and c, of (Ba,K)-feldspars and plagioclases vary similarly, whereas b varies almost identically, b shows a two-trend variation, whereas a and c show a gradual variation. The behaviour of the lattice edges can be understood, if the effects of M atoms on the (AlSi3)- and (Al2Si2)- frameworks of the respective end-members are compared with each other. The presence of a large M atom makes a almost independent of the structural state in feldspars with (Al,Si3)- framework. The expansion in b caused by the substitution of Na by K in (Al,Si3) framework is almost equal to that caused by the replacement of Ca by Ba in (Al2Si2)- framework, in spite of the varying differences in the respective mean M-O bonds. The change in c is, however, proportional to the differences in the mean M-O bonds. Thus, the b-c relationship differs from that of alkali feldspars. The increase in b parameter in plagioclases and (Ba,K)-feldspars is determined only by Al/Si distributions, whereas that in c is determined both by mean size of the M atoms and Al/Si distributions.
Orientation of feldspar intergrowths : application of lattice misfit theory to cryptoperthites and e-plagioclase
Authors: Fleet Michael E.
Published: November 2018

The lattice misfit and coherent elastic theories for intergrowth morphology are reviewed with particular reference to their application to feldspar intergrowths. Precise alignment of phase boundaries in feldspar intergrowths appears to be determined by minimisation of lattice misfit. Good agreement between the two theories is only obtained when the area misfit is low.

In complex cryptoperthite, the interface between the fine albite twin lamellae and the K-rich matrix is a fine-scale [106] zone zigzag, which is superimposed on the characteristic coarse-scale (diagonal association) zigzag. Lattice misfit calculations with sanidine (0r50)-anorthoclase (Or25) lattice parameters precisely reproduce the (36-1), (-361) orientations of the fine zigzag. By adding progressively increasing fractional amounts of the triclinic distortion of the anorthoclase lattice to the equivalent monoclinic parameters for Or25, the orientations of the parallel, sinuous, coarse zigzag and fine zigzag interfaces are sequentially reproduced. The most likely interpretation of these data is that the coarse zigzag develops in the early stages of the monoclinic → triclinic inversion of the Na-rich phase, and the fine albite twin lamellae form subsequently.

Lattice misfit calculations show that the orientation of the plane of modulation of the e-plagioclase structure results from the competing effects of albite-Na plagioclase and anorthite-Ca plagioclase domain interfaces. Because stresses are required to maintain the interfaces, the resultant orientation is a bulk property dependent on the relative sizes of the albite and anorthite domains. The limiting albite-Na plagioclase interface orientation may be reproduced with both high albite and intermediate albite lattices, thus extending the possible temperature stability of e-plagioclase.
Preliminary report on the system NaAlSiO4-KAISiO4-SiO2-H2O at PH2O = 5 kbar
Authors: Zeng Rong Shu , MacKenzie William S.
Published: November 2018

The phase relations in the undersaturated part of the system KAlSiO4-NaAlSiO4-SiO2-H2O have been determined at PH2O = 5 kbar. Nearly 15 % H2O is required to saturate the melt at this pressure, and the liquidus surface for water saturated conditions at PH2O = 5 kbar has been determined. The reduction in the size of the leucite field at this pressure results in the field boundary between nepheline and feldspar extending across most of the diagram. A temperature maximum exists on this field boundary at the composition Ne37Ks37Q26.
L’agence, le contrat, l’incitation. Les Agences régionales de santé fer-de-lance administratif de la politique de santé
Authors: Duchesne Victor
Published: November 2018

Ce texte montre que la mise en place des Agences Régionales de Santé constitue une nouvelle forme d’intervention de l’État en santé. Cette nouvelle étatisation marque le passage de la logique du plan à celle de l’incitation en dépassant les oppositions historiques qui ont animé le secteur santé (l’État contre la Sécurité sociale, la régulation locale contre la régulation centrale et l’hôpital contre la médecine libérale). Le tournant incitatif de l’organisation du système de santé s’appuie sur une structure organisationnelle originale (l’agence) et un outil de coordination (le contrat) qui est inédite par sa réussite, ampleur et spécificité. Cependant, le couple ARS-contrat n’échappe aux paradoxes d’une administration sous New Public Management  : réformer sous contrainte budgétaire et négocier contractuellement sous tutelle. Les ARS subissent elles-mêmes la logique incitative qu’elles mettent en œuvre.
Older Smokers' Beliefs About e-Cigarettes and Intent to Quit Conventional Cigarettes
Authors: Goldberg Rachel L. , Dankiewicz Cheryl , Cataldo Janine K.
Published: November 2018

To explore associations between older smokers' attitudes and beliefs about electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and tobacco use behavior, descriptive and correlational analysis of a cross-sectional survey of a random national sample of current smokers (age ≥45 years [considered “older” herein]) was performed. Of 498 older smokers, 75% wanted to quit smoking cigarettes and 60% had tried e-cigarettes. The 108 current e-cigarette users believed e-cigarettes help quit cigarettes (
p
< 0.001), are safer than cigarettes (
p
= 0.002), and are acceptable to friends (
p
= 0.010) and family (
p
= 0.007). Smokers not considering cessation believed friends and family think it is okay to smoke cigarettes (
p
< 0.001). Among older smokers: (a) most want to quit cigarettes; (b) e-cigarette use is increasing; (c) most believe e-cigarettes are healthier than cigarettes and effective for cessation; and (d) perceived social acceptability modifies tobacco use behavior by influencing initiation and maintenance of conventional cigarette and e-cigarette use. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44
(12), 17–24.]
Nurses' Recognition of Hospitalized Older Patients With Delirium and Cognitive Impairment Using the Delirium Observation Screening Scale: A Prospective Comparison Study
Authors: Hasemann Wolfgang , Tolson Debbie , Godwin Jon , Spirig Rebecca , Frei Irena Anna , Kressig Reto W.
Published: November 2018

The aim of the current study was to report findings about delirium detection when ward nurses screened for delirium in patients with cognitive impairment using the Delirium Observation Screening Scale (DOSS) in comparison to the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM). A secondary analysis was performed of research data collected in 2010 at a Swiss tertiary university hospital. During the first 5 days after admission, patients 70 and older with cognitive impairment were screened for delirium using the DOSS. Throughout patients' hospital stay, research assistants also completed the CAM on a daily basis. A total of 138 patients who did not have delirium initially participated in the study. Of these patients, 44 (32%) developed delirium with a median duration of 3 days (Q1 = 1.25; Q3 = 5.00). Ward nurses correctly identified delirium using the DOSS in 56% of cases (sensitivity) and no delirium in 92% of cases (specificity). Although the DOSS was 100% correct in detecting patients with hyperactive delirium, the identification rate decreased to 60% for patients with mixed delirium subtype and 38% for patients with hypoactive delirium. Delirium screening using observational methods may be insufficiently sensitive and should be supplemented with a formal attention test. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44
(12), 35–43.]
Use of an Additional Nonlocking Screw in Olecranon Fracture Osteosynthesis Changes Failure Mechanism
Authors: Mehta Samir , Chin Matthew , Sanville Jennifer , Namdari Surena , Hast Michael W.
Published: November 2018

Hardware-related complications can occur when plate fixation is used to stabilize osteoporotic fractures involving the olecranon. The use of an additional nonlocking screw, placed retrograde into the proximal fracture segment, may improve stability under load. The purpose of this study was to conduct a biomechanical comparison of olecranon repair constructs with and without this additional retrograde screw. Nine matched pairs of elderly fresh-frozen cadaveric upper extremities were used. Two-part olecranon fractures were modeled, and fracture stabilization was performed. Olecranon plates were implanted either with the standard surgical technique (CTRL) or with an additional retrograde screw (EXPT). Dynamic extensions of increasingly loaded forearms were performed, and comparisons of sustained cycles, maximum load, and total work were made. Relative motion of bone segments was tracked, and modes of failure were assessed. Seventy-eight percent of specimens from the CTRL group failed due to relative fragment displacement exceeding 3 mm, while 78% of EXPT specimens failed due to instantaneous catastrophic failure. There were no significant differences in terms of number of survived cycles, maximum load, or work performed between the groups. The addition of a retrograde screw in this plating technique changes the failure mode from fracture displacement to catastrophic failure. The use of a 3.5-mm retrograde screw in the relatively small proximal ulnar fragment should be avoided, but screws with a smaller diameter may still have potential to improve fixation. Further biomechanical and clinical research is necessary to improve strategies for plate fixation of olecranon fractures in the elderly population. [
Orthopedics
. 2019; 42(1):e74–e80.]
Chronic Morbidity of a Pilot Hole Burr Technique for Anterior Iliac Crest Autograft in Cervical Fusion
Authors: Heindel Koan J. , Preston Gordon P. , Tharp Jeffrey S.
Published: November 2018

Anterior cervical decompression and fusion is a commonly performed procedure for cervical pathology. Graft choices include autograft, allograft, xenograft, synthetic, or a combination. Autograft has been shown to increase fusion rate compared with allograft, yet high morbidity at the harvest site has been reported. Few studies have evaluated chronic graft site pain, and to the authors' knowledge, no study has evaluated morbidity of a pilot hole burr technique for anterior iliac crest harvest. The objective of this study was to evaluate chronic morbidity of anterior iliac crest harvest in anterior cervical decompression and fusion using a pilot hole burr technique. A phone survey was used to identify chronic morbidity. Number of levels fused, age, sex, and acute graft site complications were explored to evaluate impact of patient characteristics on chronic graft site pain. A total of 140 patients met inclusion criteria; 106 patients (76%) completed the phone survey. Mean follow-up was 38.9 months. Two patients (1.9%) reported current and constant graft site pain. Nine patients (8.5%) reported intermittent pain. Average numeric pain rating scale score for survey participants was 0.25 of 10. No patients were taking narcotics for graft site pain. Two patients (1.9%) reported functional impairment secondary to the graft site pain. There was no impact of number of levels fused, age, sex, or acute graft site complications on chronic graft site pain. The pilot hole burr technique resulted in low long-term morbidity and may offer an alternative to traditional methods for those wishing to use autologous graft in anterior cervical decompression and fusion. [
Orthopedics
. 2019; 42(1):e68–e73.]
Overcoming Anterior Breaches in the Distal Femur During Long Gamma Nailing
Authors: Ramiah Reagon Daniel , Navadgi Basalingappa
Published: November 2018

Anterior cortical penetration of distal femora when using long gamma nails is well established. To avoid this complication, using the appropriate entry point, a nail with a smaller radius of curvature, and intraoperative imaging is suggested. Despite this, there are times when the guidewire or the nail can abut or even perforate the anterior cortex. This is more likely to occur in patients with scalloped anterior distal femora and increased femoral anterior bowing. The authors overcome this potential problem during surgery by using a bent-tip guidewire. Their technique is cost neutral, safe, and quick. [
Orthopedics
. 2019; 42(1):e135–e137.]
El discurso sobre la gestión intercultural de la diversidad en Barcelona
Authors: Mata Codesal Diana
Published: November 2018

Tomando como ejemplo los planes de interculturalidad y gestión de la inmigración de la ciudad de Barcelona, este artículo analiza críticamente tres ideas que se toman como axiomáticas respecto al ámbito de las migraciones y la gestión de la diversidad en esos documentos políticos, y de qué manera estos utilizan, adaptan u omiten desarrollos académicos al respecto. El artículo analiza, en primer lugar, la afirmación de que ha habido un aumento de la diversidad en la ciudad como consecuencia de las migraciones internacionales. En segundo lugar, el hecho de que la diversidad cultural plantea una situación nueva que hace falta gestionar. Por último, el artículo analiza la afirmación de que la interacción entre personas socioculturalmente distintas, elemento este que se encuentra en la base de los distintos planteamientos denominados interculturales de gestión de la diversidad cultural, es buena y tiene consecuencias sociales positivas.
Repensando las prácticas académicas: el diseño colaborativo de un proyecto de investigación a partir de la metodología IAP
Authors: Roura-Expósito Joan , Díaz Aguilar Antonio Luis , Ruiz-Blanch Ana , Sánchez-Carretero Cristina , Cortés-Vázquez José Antonio
Published: November 2018

ParticiPat es un proyecto de investigación del Plan Nacional que tiene como objetivo analizar la participación y sus instrumentalizaciones en nueve estudios de caso sobre procesos de patrimonialización. A la hora de abordar el proyecto, quisimos cuestionar las jerarquías y lógicas raramente colaborativas que rodean la producción de conocimiento en la antropología. Para ello decidimos seguir los principios de la investigación acción participativa (IAP) para elaborar conjuntamente una guía de campo de mínimos que facilitara la comparabilidad de los casos de estudio. A través de la descripción de este proceso participativo reflexionamos sobre la estructuración de los proyectos de investigación, entendiendo que su arquitectura inicial condiciona la reproducción de lógicas de poder y autoridad entre las personas investigadoras. Asumimos así el reto de investigar sobre participación desde un meta diseño de investigación participativo que nos permite visibilizar algunos presupuestos ideológicos dentro de la práctica académica.
Viajeros étnicos, gestos exóticos y encuentros esporádicos: los tours mayas en Los Altos de Chiapas
Authors: Bayona Escat Eugenia
Published: November 2018

Este trabajo reflexiona sobre la interacción turista/anfitrión en los tours étnicos promovidos en la región Altos Tsotsil-Tseltal Chiapas, México. Las agencias turísticas promueven diferentes encuentros de los turistas con la población indígena donde se espera que los primeros cumplan con sus expectativas sobre el Otro exótico y los segundos se acoplen a los imaginarios que corren sobre sí mismos. Aquí, al contrario, interesa analizar un espacio turístico en constante construcción con la observación de tres lugares de protagonismo indígena: un mercado indígena en San Cristóbal de Las Casas, una iglesia en San Juan Chamula y una casa de tejedoras en Zinacantán, donde los roles sociales del visitante y del anfitrión se van definiendo en la interacción. El estudio señala que estos ámbitos de interacción turística son lugares de reproducción de imaginarios turísticos y se convierten a la vez en espacios de conquista y legitimación por parte de la población anfitriona.
Formas porosas. Tiempos, movilidad y economías de frontera entre San Pedro de Atacama y Lípez
Authors: Garcés Alejandro , González Ignacio , Richard Nicolás , Soto Leonardo
Published: November 2018

La frontera entre Bolivia y Chile es examinada a través de métodos etnográficos para el caso específico de la convergencia de relaciones, movilidad y economías que caracterizan el vínculo entre San Pedro de Atacama y la provincia de Sud-Lípez principalmente. La exposición distingue tres momentos de emergencia del fenómeno. El primero ligado al histórico movimiento de mercancías sobre una base motor animal que ha caracterizado esta zona y que exploramos a partir de la memoria oral de nuestros entrevistados; un segundo momento vinculado al auge minero del azufre a mediados del siglo XX, que desata sus propias lógicas de movilidad, además de la proletarización y monetarización de su economía; y un tercer momento vinculado a la transnacionalización de los flujos migratorios, su intensificación y el desarrollo de nuevas economías migrantes en el marco ya de formaciones globales o globalizantes. La frontera queda así dibujada en su contradictoria y porosa dinámica, para producir y distribuir viejas y nuevas identidades.
Una nueva mirada sobre la concordancia inesperada en español
Authors: Mare María
Published: November 2018

En el presente trabajo se describen los diferentes contextos en los que tiene lugar la concordancia inesperada en español (anotenlon) y se discuten las principales propuestas de análisis sobre este fenómeno. La mayoría de los datos recopilados escapan a las explicaciones sugeridas hasta el momento, ya que ilustran que es posible encontrar todas las posibilidades lógicas para la ocurrencia de la -n enclítica y, además, que el copiado/desplazamiento de la morfología de concordancia se produce también con la primera persona del plural, aunque de manera parcial (anotemoslon).
La configuración de la maquinaria sobrenatural en la poesía épica de Gabriel Lobo Lasso de la Vega
Authors: Río Torres-Murciano Antonio
Published: November 2018

Las notables diferencias que se dan entre las dos epopeyas acerca de la conquista de México escritas por Gabriel Lobo Lasso de la Vega —la Primera parte de Cortés valeroso y Mexicana (Madrid, Pedro Madrigal, 1588) y la Mexicana (Madrid, Luis Sánchez, 1594)— son resultado del paso de un paradigma poético basado principalmente en la Araucana de Alonso de Ercilla a uno nuevo definido por la confluencia de la Jerusalén liberada de Torcuato Tasso con la Eneida de Virgilio.
Prendre soin des enfants au quotidien. Dynamiques relationnelles et spatiales des pratiques de soins caseiros au Brésil
Authors: Rougeon Marina
Published: November 2018

De nombreux enfants au Brésil bénéficient d’un pluralisme de soins, administrés au quotidien par divers acteurs dans un souci prophylactique ou de guérison. Ils sont au centre de l’attention des agents communautaires de santé, principaux acteurs de la mise en place de la politique publique du Programme de santé de la famille. Un ensemble de soins du quotidien, recouvrant diverses formes de médication et pratiques alimentaires, leur sont par ailleurs procurés par leurs mères et grand-mères. Enfin, les enfants sont régulièrement bénis à domicile par des spécialistes des maux du corps et de l’esprit ou par leurs mères afin de les guérir de plusieurs affections et de leur apporter une protection spirituelle. À partir d’une ethnographie réalisée dans le centre-ouest du pays et de résultats d’une recherche achevée, l’étude de ces recours hétérogènes met en évidence leur inscription dans des espaces de proximité, certaines catégories nosologiques émiques pour lesquelles les enfants sont soignés, ainsi que les conceptions locales que se font les adultes des corps enfantins. La compréhension des logiques qui sous-tendent ces formes de soins trouve une clé de lecture dans l’analyse des dynamiques relationnelles et spatiales locales. Leur agencement varie selon des critères de relations intergénérationnelles, de jeux de pouvoir et de légitimité, y compris concernant les univers religieux dans lesquels ces pratiques s’inscrivent. Il donne jour à des soins caseiros, c’est-à-dire propres à l’espace thérapeutique tissé entre les rues et les maisons des quartiers. Prenant appui sur la démarche ethnographique et sur la portée heuristique d’une catégorie émique, celle de caseiro, l’article contribue à remettre en question et à complexifier l’association entre soins quotidiens portés aux enfants et sphère domestique de la vie sociale.
Is the interplay of localisation and standardisation of HRM practices the strategic option for western subsidiaries in Ghana?
Authors: Azungah Theophilus
Published: November 2018

As part of sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana has not missed the opportunity to attract considerable investment from Western multinational enterprises (MNEs) due to its rich natural resources and potential for growth, yet presents specific challenges to these enterprises particularly when seeking to transfer their human resource management (HRM) practices to their operations in Ghana. A review of the International Business (IB) literature reveals a serious gap in the interplay of standardisation and localisation of HRM practices in Western subsidiaries in Ghana despite their growing presence. Using institutional theory as the theoretical foundation for this research, I examine how the normative institutional distance between Ghana and Western countries influence the standardisation and localisation of HRM practices of western subsidiaries. This research employs a qualitative multiple case study approach using semi-structured interviews with employees and managers in purposefully selected Western subsidiaries in Ghana and triangulate interview data with document analysis. This study contributes to the IB scholarly conversation on whether standardisation and localisation of HRM practices can be implemented concurrently. It explains methodologically how and why this occurs. The study also offers practical implications as to which practices to transfer and which not.
High -performance work practices and employee attitudes: Evidence from hotel industry in Sri Lanka
Authors: Saravanabawan Arumugam
Published: November 2018

In this contemporary world, most of the organizations understand the importance of managing human resources effectively and efficiently to become successful. Many Previous researches have established a significant relationship between High performance Human resource (HR) practices and firm level and individual level outcomes. Few studies have considered the important role of employee perceived HR practices and outcome of high performance HR practices and its mediating roles. To address the recent growing interest in the literature for an investigation of this nature, this study was conducted investigating the relationship between high-performance work practices and employee attitudes in the hotel industry of Sri Lanka. Questionnaire was used to collect the data. Initially discussion was conducted with 200 employees who voluntarily participated in this study from Hotel sector, finally 175 participants agreed to fill out the questionnaire. Of the selected sample 150 questionnaires was complete and usable for this study. Correlation and regression analysis was performed to test the hypothesized relationship. Results of the study showed that high -Performance work practices positively related with intention to remain with organization, further study found positive relationship between employees’ perceptions of high-performance work practices and affective commitment; furthermore, study found that affective commitment mediated the relationship between high performance work practices and intention to remain with organization. On the basis of these findings, managerial implications of the study and future research direction were highlighted.
Business enterprises and human rights standards
Authors: Jeewanthi M.K. Geethani
Published: November 2018

Globalization and other developments of the world have directed business corporations to play an increasingly vital role at both international and national levels. The number of businesses increase day by day and, consequently this has led policy makers to consider whether these business corporations have any kind of adverse effects on stake holders. Neglecting other human rights is one such unfavorable concern which would be caused by a business and this research paper intends to discuss about this issue. The main objective of this research paper is to identify the recognized human rights principles that have to be followed by business cooperations in their daily activities. This research would look for available international conventions, guidelines, principles, policies and available domestic materials which govern this research area. From the theoretical aspect the author has used the human rights based approach for this study and the doctrinal qualitative research method as its main methodology. In conclusion, notes that there is a challenge of balancing economic growth and human rights protection at all levels. While appreciating the efforts taken at global level for providing responsibility for business enterprises to protect human rights, it is also noted that there are lacunas to be addressed further.
Neutrophil and Granulocytic Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell–Mediated T Cell Suppression Significantly Contributes to Immune Dysregulation in Common Variable Immunodeficiency Disorders
Authors: Vlkova Marcela , Chovancova Zita , Nechvatalova Jana , Connelly Ashley Nicole , Davis Marcus Darrell , Slanina Peter , Travnickova Lucie , Litzman Marek , Grymova Tereza , Soucek Premysl , Freiberger Tomas , Litzman Jiri , Hel Zdenek
Published: November 2018

Common variable immunodeficiency disorders (CVID) represent a group of primary immunodeficiency diseases characterized by hypogammaglobulinemia and impaired specific Ab response, resulting in recurrent infections due to dysfunctional immune response. The specific mechanisms mediating immune deficiency in CVID remain to be determined. Previous studies indicated that immune dysregulation in CVID patients is associated with chronic microbial translocation, systemic immune activation, and altered homeostasis of lymphocytic and myeloid lineages. A detailed phenotypic, functional characterization of plasma markers and immune cell populations was performed in 46 CVID patients and 44 healthy donors. CVID patients displayed significantly elevated plasma levels of a marker of neutrophil activation neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin. Neutrophils from CVID patients exhibited elevated surface levels of CD11b and PD-L1 and decreased levels of CD62L, CD16, and CD80, consistent with a phenotype of activated neutrophils with suppressive properties. Neutrophils from CVID patients actively suppressed T cell activation and release of IFN-γ via the production of reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, CVID was associated with an increased frequency of low-density neutrophils (LDNs)/granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells. LDN/granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cell frequency in CVID patients correlated with reduced T cell responsiveness. Exogenous stimulation of whole blood with bacterial LPS emulated some but not all of the phenotypic changes observed on neutrophils from CVID patients and induced neutrophil population with LDN phenotype. The presented data demonstrate that neutrophils in the blood of CVID patients acquire an activated phenotype and exert potent T cell suppressive activity. Specific targeting of myeloid cell–derived suppressor activity represents a novel potential therapeutic strategy for CVID.
Pattern of morbidity among elders attending general practice: health needs assessment of geriatric patients in Oman
Authors: Naeem Shaikh Muhammad , Jahan Firdous , Siddiqui Muhammad Asadullah , Khan Muhammad Moazzam
Published: November 2018

The main purpose of this study was to identify specific problems and pattern of morbidities that is common in the elderly. A cross sectional study surveying the health status and needs of targeted population was conducted in selected primary health care (PHC) outpatient settings. All consenting individuals aged 60 years and above who visited the selected PHC clinics were interviewed. Information was collected using face-to-face interviews based on a structured, pre-tested questionnaire. A total of 185 people were evaluated in this study. About 75% of participants were age 60-70 years. Overall, male predominance was noted with 137 (74.1%) males and among all participant’s 80% were married. The mean BMI was 26.47±4.98 kg/m2 and mean waist circumference was 90.16±12.97 cm. The prevalence of smoking, DM, HTN, dyslipidaemia and history of IHD among participants were 7.6%, 37.8%, 49.7%, 27.6% and 8.1%, respectively and males showed a significantly higher prevalence than females in smoking and HTN (p<0.05). Hypertension was common comorbid ailment with 29.2% of stage I and 19.5% of stage II hypertension among 60-70 age groups. The majority of the participants were taking shower; using toilet, feeding and get dressed independently, 88.6%, 87.6%, 87% and 87.6% respectively. These findings provide important information on high prevalence of overweight, hypertension, diabetes, smoking and dyslipidaemia among elders. The other common morbidities were impaired vision, walking difficulty, and hearing problems. The activity of daily living (bathing dressing toileting feeding) is preserved in most of older people.
The role of polymorphisms of thiopurine methyltransferase in therapy with Azathioprine: preliminary study
Authors: Mortillaro Francesca , Fabiano Carmelo , Piccione Maria , Giammanco Marco , Venturella Fabio
Published: November 2018

Azathioprine is an immunosuppressant drug belonging to the class of thiopurines widely used in clinical therapy. Its immunosuppressive action is linked to the substantial action mechanism in the inhibition of the synthesis of nitrogenous bases purine carried out in T-lymphocyte. The level of such medication limit resides in side effects such as myelosuppression and the development of tumours. The occurrence of side effects is linked to the presence of genetic polymorphisms of Thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT). To date, 40 allelic variants for TPMT have been detected. However, those responsible for the reduction of enzyme activity are three: *2, *3A, *3C. The presence of one of the three polymorphisms makes the enzyme susceptible to degradation at proteasome level, and exposes the patient to high levels of the active drug that increases the probability of an occurrence of its side effects. Therefore, the Food and Drug Administration imposed the execution of a genetic test of TPMT typing in order to determine if the drug therapy is appropriate to the metabolic characteristics of the patient. The study had the aim of identifying the prevalence of the three aforementioned polymorphisms related to TPMT in a sample population in Palermo, Italy, highlighting the differences related to the sex of the patient and highlighting the main phenotypes. The results showed prevalence in the population of the absence of polymorphism. Among the most frequent polymorphisms is the *3A (3%). A percentage of 1.5% was found for the polymorphism *3C. No polymorphism *2 was identified in the population analyzed.