bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Wave extreme characterization using self-organizing maps
Authors: Barbariol Francesco , Falcieri Francesco Marcello , Scotton Carlotta , Benetazzo Alvise , Carniel Sandro , Sclavo Mauro 
Published: March 2016

Abstract. The self-organizing map (SOM) technique is considered and extended to assess the extremes of a multivariate sea wave climate at a site. The main purpose is to obtain a more complete representation of the sea states, including the most severe states that otherwise would be missed by a SOM. Indeed, it is commonly recognized, and herein confirmed, that a SOM is a good regressor of a sample if the frequency of events is high (e.g., for low/moderate sea states), while a SOM fails if the frequency is low (e.g., for the most severe sea states). Therefore, we have considered a trivariate wave climate (composed by significant wave height, mean wave period and mean wave direction) collected continuously at the Acqua Alta oceanographic tower (northern Adriatic Sea, Italy) during the period 1979–2008. Three different strategies derived by SOM have been tested in order to capture the most extreme events. The first contemplates a pre-processing of the input data set aimed at reducing redundancies; the second, based on the post-processing of SOM outputs, consists in a two-step SOM where the first step is applied to the original data set, and the second step is applied on the events exceeding a given threshold. A complete graphical representation of the outcomes of a two-step SOM is proposed. Results suggest that the post-processing strategy is more effective than the pre-processing one in order to represent the wave climate extremes. An application of the proposed two-step approach is also provided, showing that a proper representation of the extreme wave climate leads to enhanced quantification of, for instance, the alongshore component of the wave energy flux in shallow water. Finally, the third strategy focuses on the peaks of the storms.
River bulge evolution and dynamics in a non-tidal sea – Daugava River plume in the Gulf of Riga, Baltic Sea
Authors: Soosaar Edith , Maljutenko Ilja , Uiboupin Rivo , Skudra Maris , Raudsepp Urmas 
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Satellite remote sensing imagery and numerical modelling were used for the study of river bulge evolution and dynamics in a non-tidal sea, the Gulf of Riga (GoR) in the Baltic Sea. Total suspended matter (TSM) images showed a clearly formed anti-cyclonically rotating river bulge from Daugava River discharge during the studied low wind period. In about 7–8 days the bulge grew up to 20 km in diameter, before being diluted. A high-resolution (horizontal grid step of 125 m) General Estuarine Transport Model (GETM) was used for detailed description of the development of the river plume in the southern GoR over the period when satellite images were acquired. In the model simulation, the bulge growth rate was estimated as rb ∼ t0.5 ± 0.04 (R2 = 0.90). Both the model simulation and the satellite images showed that river water was mainly contained in the bulge and there were numerous intrusions at the outer perimeter of the bulge. We performed numerical sensitivity tests with actual bathymetry and measured river runoff without wind forcing (1) having an initial three-dimensional density distribution, and (2) using initially a homogeneous ambient density field. In the first case, the anti-cyclonic bulge did not develop within the course of the model simulation and the coastal current was kept offshore due to ambient density-driven circulation. In the second case, the river plume developed steadily into an anti-cyclonically recirculating bulge, with rb ∼ t0.28 ± 0.01 (R2 = 0.98), and a coastal current. Additional simulations with constant cross-shore and alongshore winds showed a significant effect of the wind in the evolution of the river bulge, even if the wind speed was moderate (3–4 m s−1). While previous studies conclude that the mid-field bulge region is governed by a balance between centrifugal, Coriolis and pressure gradient terms, our study showed that geostrophic balance is valid for the entire mid-field of the bulge, except during the 1–1.5 rotation period at the beginning of the bulge formation. In addition, while there is discharge into the homogenous GoR in the case of a high inflow Rossby number, the river inflow might split into two jets, with strong mixing zone in-between, in the plume near-field region.
The Less Invasive Anterior Approach for Total HIP Arthroplasty: A Comparison to other Approaches and an Evaluation of the Learning Curve - A Systematic Review
Authors: den Hartog Yvon M. , Mathijssen Nina M.C. , Vehmeijer Stephan B.W. 
Published: March 2016

There is still discussion about possible advantages and disadvantages of the less invasive anterior approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of our systematic review was to evaluate literature regarding the anterior approach in comparison to other approaches. Furthermore, we investigated if there is a description of a learning curve for the anterior approach. Data were obtained from EMBASE, Cochrane, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web-of-Science, Scopus, Google scholar, and PubMed since their inception up to June 2015. 2 reviewers independently selected the studies and independently conducted the quality assessment. Because studies were considered heterogeneous regarding outcome measures, determinants studied, and methodological quality, we decided to perform a “best evidence synthesis”. A total of 64 studies met the inclusion criteria. Strong evidence for no difference in component placement between the anterior approach and other approaches was found. Also, strong evidence for faster postoperative recovery and less need for assistive devices after the anterior approach were found. All other studied parameters only demonstrated conflicting evidence. Although the learning curve for the anterior approach is not yet clear, this learning curve should not to be neglected. In conclusion, the less invasive anterior approach provides benefits in the early postoperative period only, when compared to other approaches.
Design and Evaluation of a Novel Subatmospheric Pressure Bioreactor for the Preconditioning of Tissue-Engineered Vascular Constructs
Authors: Coakley Daniel N. , Shaikh Faisal M. , O'Sullivan Kathleen , Kavanagh Eamon G. , Grace Pierce A. , McGloughlin Tim M. 
Published: March 2016

Purpose The pre-conditioning of tissue-engineered vascular scaffolds with mechanical stimuli is being recognised as an essential step in producing a functional vascular construct. In this study we design and evaluate a novel bioreactor, which exerts a mechanical strain on developing vascular scaffolds via subatmospheric pressure. Methods We design and construct a bioreactor, which exerts subatmospheric pressure via a vacuum assisted closure unit. Vascular scaffolds seeded with human umbilical endothelial cells were evaluated for structural integrity, microbial contamination, cellular viability, von Willebrand factor (VWF) production, cell proliferation and morphology under a range of subatmospheric pressures (75-200mmHg). Results The bioreactor produced sustained subatmospheric pressures, which exerted a mechanical strain on the vascular scaffold. No microbial contamination was found during the study. The structural integrity of the vascular construct was maintained. There was no difference in cellular viability between control or subatmospheric pressure groups (p = 0.817). Cells continued to produce VWF under a range of subatmospheric pressures. Cells subjected to subatmospheric pressures of 125mmHg and 200mmHg exhibited higher levels of growth than cells in atmospheric pressure at 24 (p≤0.016) and 48 hour (p≤0.001). Negative pressure affected cellular morphology, which were more organised, elongated and expanded when exposed to subatmospheric pressure. Conclusions We have constructed and validated a novel subatmospheric bioreactor. The bioreactor maintained a continuous subatmospheric pressure to the vascular scaffolds in a stable, sterile and constant environment. The bioreactor exerted a strain on the vascular sheets, which was shown to alter cellular morphology and enhance cellular proliferation.
Cost Calculations during “Dire Straits”: A Cost-of-Illness Analysis of Regular Hemodialysis for End-Stage Renal Disease in Greece
Authors: Naoum Panagiota , Topkaroglou Ioannis , Kitsonis Dimitrios , Skroumpelos Anastasios , Athanasakis Kostas , Iatrou Christos , Boletis John , Kyriopoulos John 
Published: March 2016

Purpose More than 3 million people worldwide suffer from end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Even though regular hemodialysis is considered very costly, it is still the most commonly used method of treatment in Greece. The aim of this study is to provide a current estimate of the annual patient cost for ESRD-related regular hemodialysis, especially during a period of economic instability for Greece. Methods Data was collected from 113 anonymous patient files from 3 dialysis units. The cost analysis includes the following parameters: hospitalization, disposable supplies, medication, meals, contaminants, human resources and equipment depreciation/utilization. Results The cost of a regular hemodialysis session was estimated at €177.12. Human resources account for 43.53% of the hemodialysis cost, while expendable supplies and medication account for 24.79% and 21.16%, respectively. The total annual cost of ESRD per patient was calculated at €34,012.31, which breaks down into €27,630.72 (81.24%) for hemodialysis, €4,800.64 (14.11%) for hospitalization, €1,454.84 (4.28%) for laboratory tests and €126.11 (0.37%) for microsurgery. Conclusions ESRD entails a significant economic burden for the Greek health care system. In a current context of ongoing austerity measures, which severely pressure the health care budget, further research should be performed in order to identify possible ways to reduce costs and improve management of the disease.
Association between VEGF-A, C and D Expression and lymph Node Involvement in Breast Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Su Fei , Liu Baoquan , Chen Mingwei , Xiao Jianbing , Li Xuemei , Lv Xiaohong , Ma Jing , You Kai , Zhang Jianguo , Zhang Yafang 
Published: March 2016

Background Metastasis is the primary cause of death in patients with breast cancer. Although VEGF-A, C and D are considered to be prime factors in lymph node metastasis in breast cancer, the published studies have conflicting conclusions. Methods To resolve this conflict, we conducted a meta-analysis of 37 studies (n = 5,001 patients) evaluating the correlation between VEGF-A, C and D immunohistochemical expression and lymph node metastasis (LNM). The meta-analysis included 22 studies of VEGF-A, 17 of VEGF-C, and 6 of VEGF-D. The relationships between VEGF-A, C and D and clinicopathological parameters were also examined. Results The results showed a significant association between VEGF-A or VEGF-C overexpression and LNM (risk ratio [RR] = 1.28 [95% CI 1.04-1.58], p = 0.02; and RR = 1.36 [95% CI 1.07-1.72], p = 0.01, respectively). Subgroup evaluation showed a significant association between VEGF-A, C and D overexpression and LNM when analyses were limited to Asian patients (RR = 1.78 [95% CI 1.28-2.46], p = 0.0005; RR = 1.38 [95% CI 1.04-1.84], p = 0.03, and RR = 2.62 [95% CI 1.35-5.09], p = 0.004, respectively). VEGF-A overexpression was significantly associated with lymph vessel invasion (RR = 1.86 [95% CI 1.33-2.60], p = 0.0003). Overexpression of VEGF-C or VEGF-D was significantly associated with HER-2 positivity (RR = 1.30 [95% CI 1.06-1.59], p = 0.01; and RR = 1.75 [95% CI 1.01-3.03], p = 0.05, respectively). Conclusions With some limitations, our meta-analysis indicated that VEGF-A and C could predict LNM in patients with breast cancer, particularly Asian patients.
Polymorphisms in Cancer Susceptibility Genes XRCC1, RAD51 and TP53 and the Risk of Breast Cancer in Serbian Women
Authors: Krivokuca Ana M. , Cavic Milena R. , Malisic Emina J. , Rakobradovic Jelena D. , Kolarevic-Ivankovic Daniela , Tomasevic Zorica I. , Brankovic-Magic Mirjana V. 
Published: March 2016

Background Thanks to immense improvements in technology over the past few decades, we have witnessed a major shift towards the idea that breast cancer results from a combined effect of multiple common alleles conferring low risk. This study investigates the role of 3 nonsynonymous SNPs in the DNA repair genes XRCC1 (R399Q), RAD51 (G135C) and TP53 (Arg72Pro) in breast cancer in Serbian women. Patients and Methods Cases of BRCA1/2-negative hereditary breast cancer (n = 52), sporadic breast cancer (n = 106) and age-matched cancer-free female controls (n = 104) were obtained from the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia's blood bank. Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis was used for genotyping. Descriptive analyses included genotype and allelic frequencies; the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval were calculated as an estimate of the relative risk. Results A significant difference in QQ+RQ versus RR genotype distribution of XRCC1 was observed between hereditary breast cancer patients and cancer-free controls. The association was confirmed among young breast cancer patients from these high-risk families. The existence of 3 recessive alleles in the RAD51 and XRCC1 genotype combination showed an association with hereditary breast cancer. Odds ratio analysis indicated a strong protective role of the RAD51 GG + TP53 ArgArg + XRCC1 RR combined genotype against hereditary breast cancer negative for BRCA1/2 mutations. Conclusions The XRCC1 R399Q polymorphism showed an association with increased breast cancer risk in Serbia, especially in the hereditary form of the disease and in young breast cancer patients. Dominant alleles of RAD51, TP53 and XRCC1 combined genotypes indicated a strong protective role against hereditary breast cancer.
Pleomorphic Rhabdomyosarcoma with an Impressive Response to Chemotherapy: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kollár Attila , Langer Rupert , Ionescu Codruta , Cullmann Jennifer L. , Klenke Frank M. 
Published: March 2016

Purpose Pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) represents a rare sarcoma subtype of the adult population. Due to its clinical characteristics, treatment is currently based on the guidelines for adult soft tissue sarcoma therapy. Hence, in the metastatic setting, doxorubicin-containing regimens are used in the sarcoma community, with limited treatment benefit. Scanty published data are available on the efficacy of systemic treatment. Whether treatment response and outcome of these patients could be improved by using pediatric protocols used typically in other RMS subtypes, like embryonal and alveolar RMS, is unclear. We report on an impressive effect of multiagent pediatric chemotherapy in an adult patient with metastatic pleomorphic RMS. Methods We present the case of a 70-year-old man with metastatic pleomorphic RMS of his left thigh. Systemic chemotherapy according to the VAC regimen (vincristine, actinomycin, cyclophosphamide) was initiated. Follow-up clinical and radiologic assessment demonstrated an impressive treatment response. Results Sixteen months after primary diagnosis, computed tomography scan shows no signs of tumor progression. Conclusions Our case report emphasizes that multiagent systemic therapy according to pediatric protocols should be considered in adult patients with pleomorphic RMS.
Patulin, Deoxynivalenol, Zearalenone and T-2 Toxin Affect Viability and Modulate Cytokine Secretion in J774A.1 Murine Macrophages
Authors: Loftus Jonathan H. , Kijanka Gregor S. , O’Kennedy Richard , Loscher Christine E. 
Published: March 2016

<p>Mycotoxins are secondary fungal metabolites, which occur in food and feed. They have detrimental effects on the health of humans and animals, and they are known to cause immunosuppression. In this study the effect of patulin, deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEN) and T-2 toxin exposure on the viability and the secretion of key pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines from the murine macrophage cell line, J774A.1, was investigated. Exposure of macrophages to high doses of ZEN (100,000 pg/mL) and T-2 toxin (10,000 and 100,000 pg/mL) resulted in a significant decrease (P &lt; 0.05 and P &lt; 0.01) in cell viability. Exposure of macrophages to these mycotoxins resulted in a dose-dependent modulation of cytokine secretion. Specifically, exposure to low doses of patulin (0.001, 0.1 and 1 pg/mL) resulted in a statistically significant decrease in the secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL) 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), following stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of Gram-negative bacterial cell walls. Treatment with low doses of DON (0.001 pg/mL) and ZEN (0.001 and 0.01 pg/mL) significantly decreased (P &lt; 0.01) the secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-12p40, while several doses of T-2 toxin (0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1 and 100 pg/mL) caused a significant decrease the expression of IL-6. Each of the mycotoxins also significantly increased the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, both before and after LPS stimulation. This data provides further insight into the mechanisms by which mycotoxins modulate the host immune response to exert their immunosuppressive activity.</p>
Matrix Extension Study: Validation of the Compact Dry TC Method for Enumeration of Total Aerobic Bacteria in Selected Foods
Authors: Mizuochi Shingo , Nelson Maria , Baylis Chris , Jewell Keith , Green Becky , Limbum Rob , Fernandez Maria Cristina , Salfinger Yvonne , Chen Yi 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
A validation study was conducted to extend the matrix claim for the Nissui Compact Dry Total Count (TC), Performance Tested Method(s)SM (PTM) Certification No. 010404, to cooked chicken, lettuce, frozen fish, milk powder, and pasteurized whole milk. The method was originally certified by the AOAC Research Institute Performance Tested Method(s)SM Program for raw meat products. The Compact Dry TC is a ready-to-use dry media sheet that is rehydrated by adding 1 mL of diluted sample. A total aerobic colony count can be determined in the sample following 48 h of incubation. Matrix extension studies were conducted by Campden BRI (formerly Campden and Chorleywood Food Research Association Technology Limited), Chipping Campden, UK. Single-laboratory data were collected for cooked chicken, lettuce, frozen fish, and milk powder, whereas a multilaboratory study was conducted on pasteurized milk. Fourteen laboratories participated in the collaborative study. The Compact Dry TC was tested at two time points, 48 ± 3 h and 72 ± 3 h and compared with the current International Organization for Standardization (ISO) method at the time of the study, ISO 4833:2003 (this standard is withdrawn and has been replaced by: ISO 4833-1:2013 and ISO 4833-2:2013), Microbiology of food and animal feeding stuffs–Horizontal method for the enumeration of microorganisms–Colony-count technique at 30°C. The data were logarithmically transformed and evaluated for repeatability (plus reproducibility for pasteurized milk), RSD of repeatability (plus RSD of reproducibility for milk), r2, and mean difference between methods with 95% confidence interval (CI). A CI outside of (−0.5 to 0.5) on the log10 mean difference was used as the criterion to establish significant statistical difference between methods. No significant differences were found between the Compact Dry TC 48 and 72 h time points, with the exception of one contamination level of cooked chicken and one contamination level of dry milk powder. Mean differences were small at these levels (&lt;0.5 log10), but the upper CIs were above 0.5. Statistical differences were indicated between the Compact Dry TC and ISO 4833 in two of five contamination levels tested each for lettuce and frozen fish. In each case, mean differences were &gt;0.5 log10, and the total aerobic colony count was higher for the ISO method. In most cases, mean differences between the Compact Dry and ISO methods were small (&lt;0.5 log10) with CIs within the acceptance criterion. Repeatability, reproducibility, and RSD were similar for both methods, and r2 values were &gt;0.97 for all matrixes. The Compact Dry TC, at 48 h, offers the advantage of a shorter time to results than ISO 4833 in an easy-to-use format.
Modèles idéologiques et modèles culturels dans la reproduction des identités collectives en situation d’émigration
Authors: Oriol Michel 
Published: March 2016

Quels rôles jouent respectivement la culture et l’idéologie dans la reproduction des identités collectives en situation d’émigration, telle est la question centrale autour de laquelle se déploie la réflexion de M. Oriol. Remontant brièvement jusqu’aux débats qui ont forgé les conceptions de l’appartenance nationale, l’auteur examine systématiquement les logiques respectives liées aux deux modèles qui prévalent dans les conduites en situation d’émigration : le renforcement de l’identité par les conflits, l’identité duale des enfants d’émigrés, le renforcement du racisme vis-à-vis de la deuxième génération, etc. Il tente enfin d’en dégager des propositions normatives susceptibles d’alimenter l’esquisse des principes du pluralisme.
La pratique sociologique entre les illusions de la méthode et les mirages de la technique
Authors: Javeau Claude 
Published: March 2016

Les sciences sociales ont repoussé « la condition humaine » hors de leur champ de compétence. Seules ont fini par compter des « déterminations » élaborées sur le mode de causalités « démontrées » selon des manipulations mathématiques. Cette façon de faire empruntée aux sciences de la nature a vite recherché à ces démonstrations des applications « pratiques », au bénéfice, pour faire bref, de diverses modalités de contrôle social. Aux sciences sociales est désormais dévolue une finalité technique, à savoir « résoudre les problèmes sociaux ». Cela signifie gérer et contrôler divers espaces sociaux de manière rationnelle, ou qui se veut telle. Ce qui fait problème, à notre époque, c’est la réduction de ces sciences au simple rang de recettes de consolidation, de replâtrage ou de réforme ponctuelle de l’ordre social existant.
Santé et services sociaux au Québec : un système en otage ou en crise ? De l’analyse stratégique aux modes de régulation
Authors: Bélanger Paul R. 
Published: March 2016

Le système de santé et de services sociaux est-il en otage, prisonnier de divers corporatismes, ou en crise, prisonnier de ses propres objectifs et formes institutionnels, et incapable de se renouveler autrement qu’en accentuant les traits qui l’ont conduit à ses propres limites ?
Conclure que le système est en otage, comme le fait la commission Rochon, découle du recours à l’analyse stratégique, qui permet de rendre compte des jeux d’influence des divers groupes sociaux mais non pas de délimiter l’aire de jeu des acteurs. Or, les grands paramètres du système socio-sanitaire québécois sont : un rapport de consommation providentialiste fondé sur la consommation individuelle et passive, articulé d’une part à une division du travail quasi tayloriste, qui privilégie un mode d’intervention biomédical, et d’autre part à des contrats de travail où les médecins sont des entrepreneurs privés autonomes alors que les salariés sont exclus de toute intervention sur la gestion mais fortement protégés par des clauses rigides de définition de postes et de sécurité d’emploi. Il n’y a pas de solutions à la crise du système hors de la prise en considération simultanée de ces paramètres.