bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors related to the length of solution-focused brief therapy working with adolescents
Authors: Goštautas Antanas , Pakrosnis Rytis , Čepukienė Viktorija , Pilkauskienė Ina , Fleming James
Published: July 2018

The objective of the study was to identify factors related to the number of solution-focused brief therapy sessions required to solve adolescents’ problems. The study was conducted at the foster care and health care institutions. The sample consisted of 73 adolescents (41% of males, 59% of females), aged 12 to 18 years, who achieved high level of therapeutic progress during solution-focused brief therapy. Respondents from foster care institutions made up 47% and from health care institutions – 53%. The study design included: (1) an initial evaluation, where adolescents’ psychosocial adjustment and personality traits were evaluated as well as information on demographic characteristics and type of referral for therapy was collected; (2) solutionfocused brief therapy was carried out. In the first session, information on the type and severity of the problem presented for the therapy and motivation to solve the problem was collected; (3) the effectiveness of solutionfocused brief therapy was evaluated. Standardized interview for the evaluation of psychosocial adjustment of adolescents was used to evaluate the difficulties of adolescents’ psychosocial functioning. Eysenck Personality Questionnaire was administered to evaluate adolescents’ personality traits. Therapist’s evaluation of improvement was used to evaluate the effectiveness of solution-focused brief therapy. The analysis of results showed that 60.3% of adolescents needed two to three solution-focused brief therapy sessions to solve their problems. Lower number of sessions needed to achieve a solution was related to lower level of psychoticism, lower level of subjectively evaluated problem severity, and living with parents (as the opposite of living in foster care institutions). Ordinal regression analysis revealed that living with parents, self-referral to the therapy, lower level of subjectively evaluated problem severity, and higher self-confidence were significant predictors of lower number of sessions needed to achieve solution.
New ethacridine derivatives as the potential antifungal and antibacterial preparations
Authors: Petrikaite Vilma , Tarasevišius Eduardas , Pavilonis Alvydas
Published: July 2018

Until the 20th century fungal infections were rather easy cured, and the need of new antifungal drugs was low. However, low choice of antifungal preparations, their toxicity, limited spectrum of action, and ability to produce resistant strains show the need of new effective medicines for systemic fungal diseases in nowadays. Our goal of research was to synthesize new antimicrobial compounds containing three or more pharmacophores in one molecule. The initial 5-substituted-2-methylmercaptothiazolidin-4-ones were subjected to S-demethylation to yield 2- amino-substituted thiazolidinones. Ethacridine, nitrofuran aldehydes and nitrobenzene aldehyde as pharmacophoric amino or aldehyde group having compounds have been used. Antimicrobial (antifungal) activity of the new compounds was screened in vitro in these bacterial cultures: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 33499 and fungal cultures: Candida albicans ATCC 60l93, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, Candida kefyr ATCC 86l4, Candida tropicalis ATCC 8302, Candida parapsilosis. Results showed that the new compounds were significantly more effective as antimicrobial agents than initial preparation ethacridine. Ethacridine derivatives were not only effective against numerous gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria, but the spectrum of action has been discovered against fungi. Minimal fungistatic concentration varies in the range l0.0–750 µg/mL and antibacterial concentration is in the range 62.5–l000 µg/mL. Compound 2a having nitrofuryl substituent in the fifth position of tiazolidine cycle was the most active of synthesized ethacridine compounds. The obtained results gave the opportunity to separate the perspective group of potential antiinfective compounds.
Variability of phenolic compounds in flowers of Achillea millefolium wild populations in Lithuania
Authors: Benetis Raimondas , Radušienė Jolita , Janulis Valdimaras
Published: July 2018

Achillea millefolium L. sensu lato (yarrow) is the best-known species of the genus Achillea due to numerous medicinal applications both in folk and conventional medicine. Phenolic compounds such as flavonoids and phenol carbonic acids are present in yarrow and constitute one of the most important groups of pharmacologically active substances. In the present study, yarrow flowers gathered from native populations in different locations of Lithuania were analyzed for phenolic compound composition. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used for chemical analyses. Eight phenolic compounds – chlorogenic acid and flavonoids, namely vicenin-2, luteolin-3',7-di-O-glucoside, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, rutin, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, luteolin, and apigenin – were identified in the extracts from yarrow flowers. Considerable variation in accumulation of phenolic compounds among the flowers from different locations was observed. The samples were divided into two main groups based on chemical composition: the first group was characterized by lower than the mean total amount of the identified phenolics; the second was formed from samples accumulating higher concentrations of investigated secondary metabolites. The total amount of the identified phenolics in yarrow flowers from different populations varied from 13.290 to 27.947 mg/g.
C-reactive protein levels in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma
Authors: Urbonienė Daiva , Sakalauskas Raimundas , Šitkauskienė Brigita
Published: July 2018

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are defined as chronic inflammatory airway diseases. There is increasing evidence that systemic inflammation may be involved in their pathogenesis too. We aimed to investigate the C-reactive protein levels in plasma of patients with COPD, asthma and control subjects and to evaluate associations of C-reactive protein levels with pulmonary function and smoking history. Material and methods. We investigated 87 persons: 41 with COPD, 30 with asthma, and 16 controls. Clinical evaluation, pulmonary function tests, C-reactive protein concentration measurement, body mass index and smoking history evaluation were performed. Results. We determined significantly higher C-reactive protein concentrations in COPD patients compared with asthma patients and controls (8.37±1.14 vs 3.14±0.67 and 2.39±0.59 mg/L, respectively; P<0.001). Creactive protein concentrations in smokers and ex-smokers with COPD were significantly higher than in COPD non-smokers (8.38±1.52 and 10.4±2.22 vs 4.10±0.86 mg/L, respectively; P<0.05). In COPD patients, C-reactive protein level correlated with FEV1 (R=–0.463, P=0.002), FEV1/FVC (R=–0.449, P=0.003), and pack-years (R=0.572, P=0.001). There was no correlation between C-reactive protein level and analyzed parameters in asthmatics and control group. Conclusions. Our data support the hypothesis that systemic inflammation plays a role in the pathogenesis of COPD, and cigarette smoking might influence this inflammation.
Return to work after coronary artery bypass surgery
Authors: Vasiliauskas Donatas , Raugalienė Rasa , Grižas Vytautas , Marcinkevičienė Jolanta , Jasiukevičienė Lina , Kubilius Raimondas , Barsys Vygantas
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to assess the possible reasons for not returning to work after coronary artery bypass surgery. A total of 134 patients (aged 65 years and younger) who underwent coronary bypass surgery in 2003 were examined. The analysis was performed in three groups of the patients: Group I, patients who were employed before surgery and returned to work after it (n=51); Group II, patients who were employed before surgery but did not return to work after surgery (n=55); and Group III, patients who were unemployed before and remained unemployed after surgery due to health problems (n=28). Number of injured coronary arteries, the extent of operation, postoperative complications, risk factors for ischemic heart disease, clinical status of patients (angina pain and heart failure), physical tolerance, and return to work within one year after coronary bypass surgery were analyzed. It was found that 48.1% of patients who were employed before surgery returned to work after myocardial revascularization. About 30% of patients experienced recurrent symptoms of angina after 12 months. Logistic regression analysis revealed that return to work was significantly influenced by female gender, physical pattern of work, age, and severity of heart failure.
Umbilical hernia: Factors indicative of recurrence
Authors: Venclauskas Linas , Šilanskaitė Jolita , Kiudelis Mindaugas
Published: July 2018

Umbilical hernia has gained little attention from surgeons in comparison with other types of abdominal wall hernias (inguinal, postoperative); however, the primary suture for umbilical hernia is associated with a recurrence rate of 19–54%. The aim of this study was to analyze the results of the umbilical hernia repair and to assess the independent risk factors influencing umbilical hernia recurrence. Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent surgery for umbilical hernia in the Hospital of Kaunas University of Medicine in 2001–2006 was performed. Age, sex, hospital stay, hernia size, patient’s body mass index, and postoperative complications were analyzed. Postoperative evaluation included pain and discomfort in the abdomen and hernia recurrence rate. The questionnaire, which involved all these previously mentioned topics, was sent to all patients by mail. Hernia recurrence was diagnosed during the patients’ visit to a surgeon. Two surgical methods were used to repair umbilical hernia: open suture repair technique (keel technique) and open mesh repair technique (onlay technique). Every operation was chosen individually by a surgeon. Results. Ninety-seven patients (31 males and 66 females) with umbilical hernia were examined. The mean age of the patients was 57.1±15.4 years, hernia anamnesis – 7.6±8.6 years, hospital stay – 5.38±3.8 days. Ninety-two patients (94.8%) were operated on using open suture repair technique and 5 (5.2%) patients – open mesh repair technique. Only 7% of patients whose BMI was >30 kg/m2 and hernia size >2 cm and 4.3% of patients whose BMI was <30 kg/m2 and hernia size <2 cm were operated on using onlay technique (P>0.05). The rate of postoperative complications was 5.2%. Sixty-seven patients (69%) answered the questionnaire. The complete patient’s recovery time after surgery was 2.4±3.4 months. Fourteen patients (20.9%) complained of pain or discomfort in the abdomen, and 7 patients (10.4%) had ligature fistula after the surgery. Forty-five patients (67.2%) did not have any complaints after surgery. The recurrence rate after umbilical hernia repair was 8.9%. The recurrence rate was higher when hernia size was >2 cm (9% for <2 cm vs 10.5% for >2 cm) and patient’s BMI was >30 kg/m2 (8.6% for < 30 vs 10.7% for >30). There were 5 recurrence cases after open suture repair and one case after onlay technique. Fifty-six patients (83.6%) assessed their general condition after surgery as good, 9 patients (13.4%) as satisfactory, and only 2 patients (3%) as poor. Conclusions. We did not find any significant independent risk factors for umbilical hernia recurrence. However, based on reviewed literature, higher patient’s body mass index and hernia size of >2 cm could be the risk factors for umbilical hernia recurrence.
Potential Mechanism of Action of Cyclosporin A in Human Dermal Fibroblasts—Transcriptomic Analysis of CYPs
Authors: Janikowska Grażyna , Pyka-Pająk Alina , Janikowski Tomasz , Adamska Jolanta , Mazurek Urszula , Jędrusik Przemysław
Published: July 2018

Effect of cyclosporin A (CsA) in a therapeutic concentration, on the expression of cytochrome P450 genes (CYPs), was investigated in normal human dermal fibroblast cells. The expression of 57 genes, encoding cytochrome P450 isoforms, was estimated using the microarray method. Amongst 396 normalized fluorescence signals related to cytochrome P450 activity, only 91 were strictly connected to CYPs and were analyzed using two methods: a self-organizing feature map of artificial neural networks and typical statistical analysis with significance level at p ≤ 0.05. Comparing the samples from fibroblasts cultured with CsA and those cultured without, up-regulated changes of CYP19A1, 1B1, 7A1, 7F1, 17A1 and down-regulated 2D6 gene expression were observed. The mRNAs with increased changes were in the same neuron of the self-organizing feature map. All distinguished CYPs encode monooxygenases, which plays an important role in steroids biosynthesis and metabolism. Based on the obtained results, we can conclude that CsA in therapeutic concentration changes the expression profile of CYPs in human dermal fibroblasts, especially affecting genes linked to steroids synthesis and/or metabolism. It shows the potential mechanism of action of CsA in human dermal fibroblast cells.
Formation of 6-, 8- and 10-Shogaol in Ginger through Application of Different Drying Methods: Altered Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Ali , Jaafar Hawa Z.E. , Baghdadi Ali , Tayebi-Meigooni Amin
Published: July 2018

Gingerols and shogaols are compounds found in ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe); shogaols are found in lower concentration than gingerols but exhibit higher biological activities. This work studied the effects of different drying methods including open sun drying (OSD) solar tunnel drying (STD) and hot air drying (HAD) with various temperature on the formation of six main active compounds in ginger rhizomes, namely 6-, 8-, and 10-gingerols and 6-, 8-, and 10-shogaols, as well as essential oil content. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of dried ginger was also evaluated. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed that after HAD with variable temperature (120, 150 and 180 °C), contents of 6-, 8-, and 10-gingerols decreased, while contents of 6-, 8-, and 10-shogaol increased. High formation of 6-, 8-, and 10-shogaol contents were observed in HAD (at 150 °C for 6 h) followed by STD and OSD, respectively. OSD exhibited high content of essential oil followed by STD and HAD method. Ginger-treated with HAD exhibited the highest DPPH (IC50 of 57.8 mg/g DW) and FRAP (493.8 µM of Fe(II)/g DM) activity, compared to STD and OSD method. HAD ginger exhibited potent antimicrobial activity with lower minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) value against bacteria strains followed by STD and OSD, respectively. Ginger extracts showed more potent antimicrobial activity against Gram positive bacteria than Gram negative bacteria strains. Result of this study confirmed that conversion of gingerols to shogaols was significantly affected by different drying temperature and time. HAD at 150 °C for 6 h, provides a method for enhancing shogaols content in ginger rhizomes with improving antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.
Open Access in Vocational Education and Training Research
Authors: Langenkamp Karin , Rödel Bodo , Taufenbach Kerstin , Weiland Meike
Published: July 2018

The article presents a research project at the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training in Germany and reflects the perspective of researchers in the field of vocational education and training (VET). It investigates the technical and structural, policy-related, and normative and inherent academic research conditions exerting an influence on the acceptance, dissemination, and use of Open Access (OA). The research project focuses on the German-speaking countries. VET research represents an interlinking of various related academic research areas, rather than comprising a stand-alone discipline. Therefore, the assumption must be that the results of the project will be at least partially transferable to other fields within the social sciences and the humanities and will thus contribute towards findings with regard to OA across the whole of the latter domain. The background to the project is underpinned by science communication and by media theory. The empirical basis of the study has its foundations in a Sequential Mixed Method Design with a qualitative strand, followed by a quantitative strand. The qualitative exploration via focus groups will lead to hypotheses for the online survey. The online survey will be aimed at academic researchers from various disciplines who share common ground in that they address topics that are related to VET research. The realisation of the research project is planned for 2018–2020.
Calibration of UR10 Robot Controller through Simple Auto-Tuning Approach
Authors: Copot Cosmin , Muresan Cristina , Ionescu Clara-Mihaela , Vanlanduit Steve , De Keyser Robin
Published: July 2018

This paper presents a calibration approach of a manipulator robot controller using an auto-tuning technique. Since the industry requires machines to run with increasing speed and precision, an optimal controller is too demanding. Even though the robots make use of an internal controller, usually, this controller does not fulfill the user specification with respect to their applications. Therefore, in order to overcome the user requirements, an auto-tuning method based on a single sine test is employed to obtain the optimal parameters of the proportional–integral–derivative PID controller. This approach has been tested, validated and implemented on a UR10 robot. The experimental results revealed that the performances of the robot increased when the designed controller, using the auto-tuning technique, was employed.
In-Line Inspection Tool with Eddy Current Instrumentation for Fatigue Crack Detection
Authors: Camerini Cesar , Rebello João Marcos Alcoforado , Braga Lucas , Santos Rafael , Chady Tomasz , Psuj Grzegorz , Pereira Gabriela
Published: July 2018

Eddy current transducer with sensing coils placed orthogonally and connected in differential mode was introduced to evaluate fatigue cracks in clad pipeline circumferential welds. A dedicated embedded electronic hardware was developed to drive the transducer and measure the electrical complex impedance of the coils, and was specifically designed for operation under autonomous in-line inspection tool. In the laboratory experiments, an automated inspection was performed with the goal to evaluate transducer’s detectability, and different scanning speed was tested to reproduce in service situation. The results have confirmed that the introduced eddy current transducer is a potential solution for fatigue crack detection in clad circumferential weld root, while the hardware developed presented a reasonable SNR reaching the data rate required to be incorporated in an autonomous in-line inspection tool.
A High-Precision CMOS Temperature Sensor with Thermistor Linear Calibration in the (−5 °C, 120 °C) Temperature Range
Authors: Wang Chua-Chin , Hou Zong-You , You Jhih-Cheng
Published: July 2018

A high-precision Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) temperature sensor for (−5 °C, 120 °C) temperature range is designed and analyzed in this investigation. The proposed design is featured with a temperature range selection circuit so that the thermistor linear circuit automatically switches to a corresponding calibration loop in light of the temperature range besides the analysis of the calibration method. It resolves the problem that the temperature range of a single thermistor temperature sensor is too small. Notably, the output of the proposed design also attains a high linearity. The measurement results in a thermal chamber justifying that the output voltage is 1.96 V to 4.15 V, the maximum linearity error ≤1.4%, and the worst temperature error ≤1.1 °C in the temperature range of −5 °C to 120 °C.
Vulnerability Assessment for Cascading Failure in the Highway Traffic System
Authors: Liu Han , Wang Jian
Published: July 2018

Vulnerability assessment is of great significance to highway traffic system. As the widespread cascading failure may cause serious damage, factor identification is necessary to improve the security level of highway system. In this paper, the Dematel method is applied to identify the vulnerability priorities of important factors, and a new assessment method for highway system vulnerability is presented by considering system cascading failure. The traffic allocation and reallocation are then optimized under user equilibrium assignment model in different scenarios. Finally, the methodology is applied to the Heilongjiang highway network and the results shows that vulnerable sections in highway networks can be determined efficiently in our proposed process.
Mise en marché et industrialisation des patrimoines
Authors: Vergopoulos Hécate
Published: July 2018

Este artículo se propone estudiar la manera cómo los objetos turísticos alcanzan una posición híbrida en el seno de un proceso de recualificación. Partiendo de trabajos sobre el encantamiento, invita a su vez a considerar la mediación turística como una operación a la vez simbólica y económica, en la cual los objetos son transformados en “cosas” comerciales, y al mismo tiempo se ven asignados de una función sociocultural de “semióforo”, de manera que turistas y profesionales del turismo puedan compartir en conjunto algo del “intercambio cultural”.
Quand la culture de la discothèque est mise en ligne : Le cas du site Boiler Room
Authors: Heuguet Guillaume
Published: July 2018

Cet article analyse la médiatisation en ligne de la pratique musicale du mix en discothèque, à partir d’un événement organisé à Berlin et diffusé en ligne par l’organisation Boiler Room. La culture à la fois populaire et spécialisée de la discothèque est associée à une esthétique valorisant les aspects sociaux et situés de la pratique des disc-jockeys, et qui porte une certaine défiance vis-à-vis de la diffusion médiatique, en particulier par l’image vidéo. Ce travail rapproche donc une série d’écrits d’écrans de l’histoire culturelle de la discothèque pour comprendre comment les technologies de diffusion de vidéos en ligne sont ajustées à ces discours sur les relations entre club et médias. L’analyse de l’écriture médiatique de l’événement intègre la posture énonciative choisie par l’organisation, son usage de la vidéo, et la composition techno-sémiotique du site web, pour montrer comment ils s’articulent autour d’une rhétorique de l’authenticité. Le site donne à observer la construction d’un régime d’événementialité en ligne associé à des figures croisées de la communauté et de la popularité, et suggère l’affinité entre certaines cultures musicales et le fonctionnement des sites de réseautage contemporains.
Énergies renouvelables et droit de l’Union européenne, entre marché (intérieur) et intérêt général
Authors: Alves Carlos-Manuel
Published: July 2018

Les différents instruments législatifs de l’Union européenne relatifs aux énergies renouvelables illustrent la complexité des relations entre marché et intérêt général au sein de l’UE. Comment la puissance publique européenne articule-t-elle intérêt général et marché ? Une démarche commune unit ces différents textes européens ; une démarche dialectique à vrai dire. Il s’agit tout d’abord de se servir du marché pour réaliser l’intérêt général, en l’occurrence la protection de l’environnement. Dès lors, la promotion des énergies renouvelables déclarée d’intérêt général repose en grande partie sur le marché. Néanmoins, le marché peut mal faire. Dès lors que le marché s’avère insuffisant, faillible, l’Union européenne ne va pas hésiter à intervenir pour infléchir le marché au nom de l’intérêt général.
SiO Masers in the Galactic Bulge and Disk: Kinematics from the BAaDE Survey
Authors: Trapp A. C. , Rich R. M. , Morris M. R. , Sjouwerman L. O. , Pihlström Y. M. , Claussen M. , Stroh M. C.
Published: July 2018

We present the first results from the Bulge Asymmetries and Dynamic Evolution (BAaDE) survey. Though only a subset of the complete survey (∼2700 out of ∼20,000 final sources), our data comprise the largest radio kinematic survey to date of stellar SiO masers observed toward the Galactic bulge and plane from −15° < l < +12° and −6° < b < +6°. Our sources include a substantial number of line-of-sight velocities in high extinction regions within ±1° of the Galactic plane. When matched with 2MASS photometry, our radio-detected sample lies significantly brighter than and redward of the first red giant branch tip, reaching extremes of (J − Ks)0 > 8, colors consistent with Mira variables and mass-losing AGB stars. We see a clean division into two kinematic populations: a kinematically cold (σ ∼ 50 km s−1) population that we propose is in the foreground disk, consisting of giants with 2MASS Ks < 5.5, and a kinematically hot (σ ∼ 100 km s−1) candidate bulge/bar population for most giants with Ks > 5.5. Only the kinematically hot giants with Ks > 5.5 include the reddest stars. Adopting 8.3 kpc to the Galactic center, and correcting for foreground extinction, we find that most of the sources have M
bol ∼ −5, consistent with their being luminous and possibly intermediate-age AGB stars. We note some tension between the possible intermediate age of the kinematically hot population, and its high-velocity dispersion compared to the disk.
Constraints on the Mass, Concentration, and Nonthermal Pressure Support of Six CLASH Clusters from a Joint Analysis of X-Ray, SZ, and Lensing Data
Authors: Siegel Seth R. , Sayers Jack , Mahdavi Andisheh , Donahue Megan , Merten Julian , Zitrin Adi , Meneghetti Massimo , Umetsu Keiichi , Czakon Nicole G. , Golwala Sunil R. , Postman Marc , Koch Patrick M. , Koekemoer Anton M. , Lin Kai-Yang , Melchior Peter , Molnar Sandor M. , Moustakas Leonidas , Mroczkowski Tony K. , Pierpaoli Elena , Shitanishi Jennifer
Published: July 2018

We present a joint analysis of Chandra X-ray observations, Bolocam thermal Sunyaev–Zel’dovich (SZ) effect observations, Hubble Space Telescope (HST) strong-lensing data, and HST and Subaru Suprime-Cam weak-lensing data. The multiwavelength data set is used to constrain parametric models for the distribution of dark and baryonic matter in a sample of six massive galaxy clusters selected from the Cluster Lensing And Supernova survey with Hubble (CLASH). For five of the six clusters, the multiwavelength data set is well described by a relatively simple model that assumes spherical symmetry, hydrostatic equilibrium, and entirely thermal pressure support. The joint analysis yields considerably better constraints on the total mass and concentration of the clusters compared to analysis of any one data set individually. The resulting constraints are consistent with simulation-based predictions for the concentration–mass relation. The subsample of five galaxy clusters is used to place an upper limit on the fraction of pressure support in the intracluster medium (ICM) due to nonthermal processes, such as turbulence and bulk flow of the gas. We constrain the nonthermal pressure fraction at r
500c
to be <0.11 at 95% confidence. This is in tension with state-of-the-art hydrodynamical simulations, which predict a nonthermal pressure fraction of ≈0.25 at r
500c
for clusters of similar mass and redshift. This tension may be explained by the sample selection and/or our assumption of spherical symmetry.
A Young Ultramassive White Dwarf in the AB Doradus Moving Group
Authors: Gagné Jonathan , Fontaine Gilles , Simon Amélie , Faherty Jacqueline K.
Published: July 2018

We use Gaia Data Release 2 (DR2) kinematic data and white dwarf evolutionary models to determine that the young and ultramassive 1.28 ± 0.08 M
⊙ white dwarf GD 50 is a likely member of the AB Doradus moving group (ABDMG). Comparison with the Montréal white dwarf evolutionary models and the MESA Isochrones and Stellar Tracks (MIST) main-sequence lifetimes imply a total age of 117 ± 26 (±13 statistic, ±22 systematic) Myr, accounting for all possible C/O/Ne core compositions and using the Pleiad white dwarf LB 1497 as a comparison benchmark. This is the first white dwarf cosmochronology age for a nearby young moving group, and allows us to refine the age of the ABDMG at

Myr by combining it with its independent isochronal age. GD 50 is the first white dwarf member of the ADMG and is located at only 31 pc from the Sun, making it an important benchmark to better understand the star formation history of the Solar neighborhood.
What Powered the Optical Transient AT2017gfo Associated with GW170817?
Authors: Li Shao-Ze , Liu Liang-Duan , Yu Yun-Wei , Zhang Bing
Published: July 2018

The groundbreaking discovery of the optical transient AT2017gfo associated with GW170817 opens a unique opportunity to study the physics of double neutron star (NS) mergers. We argue that the standard interpretation of AT2017gfo as being powered by radioactive decay of r-process elements faces the challenge of simultaneously accounting for the peak luminosity and peak time of the event, as it is not easy to achieve the required high mass, and especially the low opacity of the ejecta required to fit the data. A plausible solution would be to invoke an additional energy source, which is probably provided by the merger product. We consider energy injection from two types of the merger products: (1) a post-merger black hole powered by fallback accretion; and (2) a long-lived NS remnant. The former case can only account for the early emission of AT2017gfo, with the late emission still powered by radioactive decay. In the latter case, both early- and late-emission components can be well interpreted as due to energy injection from a spinning-down NS, with the required mass and opacity of the ejecta components well consistent with known numerical simulation results. We suggest that there is a strong indication that the merger product of GW170817 is a long-lived (supramassive or even permanently stable), low magnetic field NS. The result provides a stringent constraint on the equations of state of NSs.
Imported brucellosis and Q-fever coinfection in Croatia: a case report
Authors: Peric Ljiljana , Sabadi Dario , Rubil Ilija , Bogdan Maja , Guzvinec Marija , Dakovic Rode Oktavija , Kaic Bernard , Tabain Irena , Vilibic-Cavlek Tatjana
Published: July 2018

The brucellosis and Q-fever coinfection is very rarely reported. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of concomitant brucellosis and Q-fever, most likely imported in Croatia. A 30-year-old male agricultural worker was hospitalized on 22 April 2017 after a ten days fever up to 40°C with chills, shivering, excessive sweating, general weakness, loss of appetite and headache. A month and a half prior to the hospitalization he lost 18 kg of body weight. Three weeks before hospitalization the patient returned from Kupres (Bosnia and Herzegovina) where he was working for the past year on a sheep farm and consumed unpasteurized dairy products of sheep origin. At admission, his condition was moderately severe due to pronounced dehydration. Routine laboratory tests showed slightly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, anemia, thrombocytopenia and elevated liver transaminases. The chest X-ray showed an inhomogeneous infiltrate of the lower right lung. Three sets of blood culture were cultivated. After 48 hours incubation, bacterial growth was detected in aerobic bottles. Gram-stained smear revealed small, gram-negative coccobacilli. Specimens were subcultured on blood and chocolate agar plates. Using a Vitek GN identification card, the isolated organism was identified as Brucella melitensis. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the isolate confirmed it as a Brucella sp. Rose-Bengal test was positive, while Wright agglutination test showed a significant increase in antibody titer from 80 to 640 in paired sera. Using indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), Coxiella burnetii phase II IgM/IgG titers were 50 and 1024, respectively indicating acute Q-fever. The patient was treated with doxycycline and rifampicin. So far, there has been no relapse or signs of chronic infection.
The Human papillomavirus among women living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Morocco A prospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Ouladlahsen Ahd , Fayssel Naouar , Bensghir Rajaa , Baba Hanâ , Lamdini Hassan , Sodqi Mustapha , Marih Latifa , Essebbani Meryem , Nadifi Sellama , Benjelloun Soumaya , Himmich Hakima , Chakib Abdelfattah , Wakrim Lahcen , Marhoum El Filali Kamal , Ezzikouri Sayeh
Published: July 2018

Introduction: Women infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have a higher risk of contracting human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and are more prone to develop cervical cancer. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of HPV and its association with risk factors among Moroccan women living with HIV/AIDS.

Methodology: We enrolled 251 HIV-infected non-pregnant women in Morocco from February 2013 to September 2016. Sociodemographic, lifestyles, behavioral and clinical data were collected. Polymerase chain reaction followed by sequencing were performed for molecular detection and HPV genotyping in cervical samples, respectively.

Results: Abnormal cervical smears were found in 34/246 patients (13.82%). The overall prevalence of HPV was 74.50%. HPV 58 was the most prevalent (39.29%) followed by HPV 18 (10.71%), HPV 70 (8.93%), HPV 33 (7.14%), HPV 6 (6.25%) and other genotypes (< 3%). Overall, high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) types were present in 75% (84/112) of patients and the prevalence of HR-HPV types in samples with abnormal Pap was higher than in normal Pap (55/83, 66.27% vs. 28/83, 33.33%, p < 0.0001). Univariate analyses showed that none of the socio-demographic and behaviors factors was associated with HPV infection. Moreover, Pap results were not affected by HPV status (p = 0.532). Whereas, CD4 T-cell counts above 200/mm3 at enrolment were apparently not protective to HPV infection. We found a high prevalence of HPV infection and HR-HPV types among HIV-positive women that significantly associated with abnormal Pap.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest a high prevalence of HPV infection with high-risk types was observed among HIV-positive women warrant to implement a regular screening by Pap smear.
Field accuracy of HIV rapid diagnostic tests for blood donors screening, Bukavu, Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Kashosi Théophile Mitima , Kyambikwa Céléstin Bisangamo , Mulongo Philémon Mbarabara , Nachega Jean Bisimwa
Published: July 2018

Introduction: Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are widely used for point-of-care. point-of-care diagnosis of HIV infection in resource-limited settings. However, there are no data about their field diagnostic performance in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), especially in the context of blood banks screening for transfusion safety purpose.

Methodology: Blood specimens were collected from blood donors in Bukavu, Eastern DRC, from May the 1st to June the 30th, 2015, to evaluate the accuracy of Alere Determine HIV-1/2, Trinity Biotech Uni‑Gold HIV, and DoubleCheckGold Ultra HIV 1& 2 compared to the laboratory-based 4th generation ELISA apDia HIV Ag/Ab assay. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and related 95% confidence intervals were calculated using MedCalc statistical software version 15.1. Reliability was evaluated using Cohen’s Kappa Statistic, κ.

Results: Among 312 participants who provided blood bags, 96/312 (30.7%) were female and the mean age (SD) was 31.7 years (± 8.1years). Sensitivity for the three tests was 57.1% (95% CI: 18.4-90.1). The specificity was 99.7% (95% CI: 18.4-90.1) for Alere Determine HIV 1/2, 100% (95% CI: 98.8-100.0) for Uni-Gold HIV, and (100% (95% CI: 98.8-100.0) for DoubleCheckGold Ultra HIV 1&2. Cohen’s Kappa Statistic showed moderate agreement between the 4th generation ELISA apDia HIV Ag/Ab and RDTs Alere Determine HIV 1/2 and Uni-Gold HIV (κ = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.55- 0.76) but good agreement for DoubleCheckGold Ultra HIV1&2 (κ = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.61 – 0.82).

Conclusions: Compared to the laboratory-based ELISA apDia HIV Ag/Ab assay, the currently used 3rd generation HIV RDTs showed poor field accuracy results in a context of blood donors screening. These data support the need for 4th generation Ag-Ab RDTs in transfusion blood qualification.
A review of the Japanese Cryptochironomus Kieffer, 1918 (Diptera, Chironomidae)
Authors: Yan Chuncai , Liu Ting , Cao Wei , Zhao Guangjun , Liu Wenbin
Published: July 2018

The genusCryptochironomusKieffer, 1918 from Japan is reviewed based on material composed of male adults. New combinations of three species are established and they are re-described based on male adult of:C.misumaiprimus(Sasa & Suzuki, 1998),comb. n.,C.tokaraefeus(Sasa & Suzuki, 1995),comb. n.andC.tonewabeus(Sasa & Tanaka, 2002),comb. n.Additional taxonomic notes are also provided:C.albofasciatus(Staeger, 1839), which is a senior synonym ofParachironomusinafegeusSasa, Kitami & Suzuki, 2001 andC.rostratus(Kieffer, 1921) as the senior synonym ofParacladopelmainaheiaSasa, Kitami & Suzuki, 2001. A key to the known adult males of the genus from Japan is given.
Three new species of the ‘ Geophagus’ brasiliensis species group from the northeast Brazil (Cichlidae, Geophagini)
Authors: Mattos José L.O. , Costa Wilson J.E.M.
Published: July 2018

Morphological characters and phylogenetic trees generated by analyses of segments of two mitochondrial genes cytochrome b and cytochrome c oxidase I support recognition of three new species of the ‘Geophagus’ brasiliensis species group from coastal basins of northeast Brazil. All new species were diagnosed by exclusive morphological characters and exclusive nucleotide transformations.Geophagusrufomarginatussp. n., from the Rio Buranhém Basin, is distinguished from all other species of the group by dorsal-fin lappets with red edges, the presence of longitudinal series of small light blue spots between the anal-fin spines and rays, and non-denticulated gill-rakers; it is closely related toG.brasiliensisandG.iporangensis.Geophagusmultiocellussp. n., from the Rio de Contas Basin, is distinguished from all other species of the group by having small pale blue spots with minute bright blue dots at their centres, that are often vertically coalesced to form short bars on the caudal fin.Geophagussantosisp. n., from the Rio Mariana Basin, is distinguished from all other species of the group by having blue stripes parallel to the dorsal and anal fin rays on their longest portions.GeophagusmultiocellusandG.santosibelong to the same clade ofG.itapicuruensis. The clade composed by the Rio Paraguaçu Basin species was recovered as the sister group of the other species of the ‘G.’ brasiliensis species group.
Music as a Healing Art in Dementia Care
Authors: Sorrell Jeanne M.
Published: July 2018

Music is an easily accessible and stimulating medium that can be enjoyed alone or with others, even in the context of severe dementia. The power of music to improve the lives of individuals with dementia, as well as their caregivers, is becoming increasingly recognized as more research is focused on underlying neural relationships and evidence-based music interventions. Nurses and other health professionals can be instrumental in designing and implementing music-based interventions and expanding needed research to promote music as a healing art in dementia care. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56
(7), 15–18.]
Rupture of the cavernous body diagnosed by contrast-enhanced ultrasound: Presentation of a clinical case
Authors: Dell'Atti Lucio , Scarcella Simone , Argalia Giulio , Montesi Lorenzo , Giuseppetti Gian Marco , Galosi Andrea Benedetto
Published: July 2018

Penile trauma represents a urological emergency characterized by the breaking of the albuginea tunic. A fast diagnosis and early surgical repair are the best treatments to avoid post-operative sequelae such as curvatures or deformities of the penis. An ultrasound evaluation may not be able to identify the injury in the tunica albuginea due to the edematous swelling of the penis and clots within the tear deteriorate the image contrast and can hide the injury. We here report a case study of successful management via surgical treatment for rupture of the cavernous body diagnosed by contrast-enhanced ultrasound in a young patient with penile trauma.
Resistance of uropathogens to antibacterial agents: Emerging threats, trends and treatments
Authors: Perletti Gianpaolo , Magri Vittorio , Cai Tommaso , Stamatiou Konstantinos , Trinchieri Alberto , Montanari Emanuele
Published: July 2018

Urinary tract infections are among the most common infectious diseases in humans. Today, resistance to nearly all antimicrobial classes is dramatically growing, and extremely drug-resistant or even pan-drug resistant pathogens are increasingly isolated around the world. It is foreseen that in the next decades the world will be facing a major medical emergency generated by the rapid spread of pathogens carrying resistance determinants of unprecedented power. Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae, multidrug- resistant Enterococci and fluoroquinolone resistance determinants in both Gram-negative and Gram-positive uropathogens are among the greatest emergencies. In this article, the major emerging threats of particular interest to urologists are reviewed, worldwide resistance trends are illustrated, and novel and older – but still active – recommended drugs are summarized.
A Study on the Clinical and Angiographic Spectrum of Spontaneous Extracranial Dissections in the Cerebral Vasculature
Authors: Anadure Ravi K. , Mohimen Aneesh , Saxena Rajeev , Sivasankar Rajeev
Published: July 2018

Aim: To prospectively study the clinical profile, angiographic features, and functional outcomes, in consecutive cases of extracranial dissection seen at two tertiary stroke care centers in South India. Materials and Methods: In this observational study, spanning 4 years (December 12–December 16), a total of 442 patients presented with an acute ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) at our study centers. 14/546 (3.2%) of these patients had magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)/computed tomography angiography (CTA) evidence of extracranial dissections. All cases underwent detailed clinical evaluation on arrival, and data were recorded on a predesigned stroke pro forma. Contrast MRA was done on arrival in all cases as part of a standard stroke protocol, and CTA was done only if MRA was inconclusive. The pattern of the vessel involved and morphology of vessel dissection was analyzed as per a standard radiology protocol. All the cases were managed with short-term anticoagulation using low-molecular-weight heparin followed by oral anticoagulants for 3–6 months. All cases were followed up for 1–2 years and the functional outcomes were recorded using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Results: There were 11 males and 3 females in the study, and the mean age was 45.1 years (range = 27–65 years). Focal neurological symptoms occurred in all these patients (10 patients had a stroke, and 4 had TIA). Nearly 64.2% of these (9/14) were stroke in young (age <45 years). The internal carotid artery was the most common vessel involved in 85.7% (12/14) cases. Of the ten patients with completed stroke, a good functional outcome (mRS 1–2) was seen in 8/10 (80%). Digital subtraction angiography and revascularization procedures were needed only in a minority of cases 3/14 (21%).\ Conclusion: This hospital-based study highlights the importance of suspecting arterial dissections in young strokes of unexplained etiology, and offering optimum anticoagulant therapy in the acute phase, to achieve good long-term outcomes.
Role of Leptin in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Menon Bindu , Krishnan Ramalingam
Published: July 2018

Purpose: Leptin has been implicated as a pathogenetic contributor to atherosclerosis. We aimed to investigate the association of leptin level with ischemic stroke. Materials and Methods: We prospectively enrolled 52 patients with acute ischemic stroke and measured leptin levels and compared with age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Risk factors, body mass index (BMI), biochemical parameters, intima–media thickness (IMT) on carotid vertebral Doppler and neuroimaging was done. Data were entered into MS-Excel and appropriate statistical analysis was done using SPSS software version 21.0. P = 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Serum leptin was significantly elevated in stroke patients (6598.1 ± 1035.1) compared to controls (3090.7 ± 698.86) (P < 0.01). Patients had higher BMI (26.9 ± 1.7) than controls (26.9 ± 1.7) (P < 0.00). BMI, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, white blood cell (WBC) count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C reactive protein (CRP) were significantly elevated in stroke patients than controls. Correlation analysis among patient group showed that serum leptin positively correlated with CRP (r - 0.41, P - <0.05), WBCs (r - 0.28, P - <0.05), ESR (r - 0.429, P - <0.01) total cholesterol (r - 0.31, P - <0.05), LDL-cholesterol (r - 0.19, P - <0.05), and IMT (r - 0.714, P - <0.001). Conclusion: Our study showed high leptin levels in patients with stroke. Stroke patients with high leptin had higher BMI and inflammatory markers. The results of our study indicate that leptin may have a role in atherosclerosis mediated through inflammation. Future research should be directed toward understanding the role of leptin in the pathogenesis of cerebrovascular diseases and its potential role in preventive treatment of ischemic stroke.
Ricci flow on cone surfaces
Authors: Ramos Daniel
Published: July 2018

We study the evolution under the Ricci flow of surfaces with singularities of cone type. Firstly we provide a complete classification of gradient Ricci solitons on surfaces, which is of independent interest. Secondly, we prove that closed cone surfaces with cone angles less or equal to p converge, up to rescaling, to closed soliton metrics under the Ricci flow.