bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global longitudinal strain measured by speckle tracking identifies subclinical heart involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Guerra Federico , Stronati Giulia , Fischietti Colomba , Ferrarini Alessia , Zuliani Lucia , Pomponio Giovanni , Capucci Alessandro , Danieli Maria Giovanna , Gabrielli Armando
Published: July 2018

Background

Systemic sclerosis is characterised by progressive cutaneous and organ fibrosis. Among all organs, a subclinical heart involvement is difficult to detect through conventional imaging.

Design

We evaluated whether speckle tracking-derived global longitudinal strain could help detect early subclinical systolic dysfunction in systemic sclerosis patients without overt clinical involvement.

Methods

A case–control, single-centre study on 52 systemic sclerosis patients and 52 age and gender-matched controls. Patients with structural heart disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation and pulmonary hypertension were excluded. For every patient, standard echocardiographic and speckle tracking-derived variables for the systolic and diastolic function of the left ventricle and right ventricle were acquired.

Results

Traditional parameters of left and right systolic function did not differ between systemic sclerosis patients and controls (all P = ns). Left and right ventricular global longitudinal strain was significantly impaired in patients with systemic sclerosis when compared to controls (–19.2% vs. –21.1%; P = 0.009 and –18.2% vs. –22.3%; P = 0.012, respectively). Systemic sclerosis patients had a 2.5-fold increased risk of subclinical left ventricular systolic impairment (odds ratio 2.5, 95% confidence interval 1.1–5.5; P = 0.027) and a 3.3-fold increased risk of subclinical right ventricular systolic impairment when compared to controls (odds ratio 3.3, 95% confidence interval 1.4–7.7; P = 0.004). Alterations in the myocardial deformation pattern of systemic sclerosis patients were homogeneous in the right ventricle and eccentric in the left ventricle.

Conclusions

While traditional echocardiographic parameters are ineffective in detecting subclinical systolic impairment, reduced global longitudinal strain is common in patients with systemic sclerosis and significant for both ventricles. Global longitudinal strain could become a low-cost, non-invasive and reliable tool in order to detect early cardiac involvement in systemic sclerosis patients.
Retained catheter during placement of dorsal root ganglion stimulator: a case report
Authors: Kohli Gurkirat , Amin Shawn , Herschman Yehuda , Mammis Antonios
Published: July 2018

Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation is a novel therapeutic option that is being increasingly utilized for patients with neuropathic pain. The potential complications during the placement of this device remain unknown. We describe a potential complication during DRG stimulator placement not previously reported in the literature. A 50-year-old male presented to the ED with lower back pain and right lower extremity radicular pain following placement of DRG stimulator at outside facility. A fragment of an introducer catheter was retained in the spinal canal and L2-L3 neural foramen. Patient underwent L2-L3 laminectomy for removal of the catheter without any complications. DRG stimulation is an effective option for intractable neuropathic pain, but the safety of the procedure and its long-term complications need to be further investigated.
Book review: M. Tungate, 2008, Branded Male: Marketing to Men
Authors: Aravind R.
Published: July 2018

M. Tungate, 2008, Branded Male: Marketing to Men. New Delhi: Kogan Page Publishers. 228 pp., ₹395. ISBN: 978-5-9614-1229-1.
“They Should Be Asking Us”: A Qualitative Decisional Needs Assessment for Women Considering Cervical Cancer Screening
Authors: Wood Brianne , Russell Virginia L. , El-Khatib Ziad , McFaul Susan , Taljaard Monica , Little Julian , Graham Ian D.
Published: July 2018

In this study, we examine from multiple perspectives, women’s shared decision-making needs when considering cervical screening options: Pap testing, in-clinic human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, self-collected HPV testing, or no screening. The Ottawa Decision Support Framework guided the development of the interview schedule. We conducted semi-structured interviews with seven screen-eligible women and five health care professionals (three health care providers and two health system managers). Women did not perceive that cervical screening involves a “decision,” which limited their knowledge of options, risks, and benefits. Women and health professionals emphasized how a trusted primary care provider can support women making a choice among cervical screening modalities. Having all cervical screening options recommended and funded was perceived as an important step to facilitate shared decision making. Supporting women in making preference-based decisions in cervical cancer screening may increase screening among those who do not undergo screening regularly and decrease uptake in women who are over-screened.
South African podiatry students' perceptions of feedback given as part of clinical training
Authors: Ntuli Simiso , September Noleen Nomthi , Sithole Nozipho
Published: July 2018

Background

As part of their clinical training podiatry students spend time in clinical settings treating patients under the supervision of qualified podiatrists. The role and purpose of feedback during such clinical training is to improve students' knowledge, skills and behaviour. Feedback is an integral part of the learning process that should enhance students' clinical learning experiences. However, there is no data on podiatry students' satisfaction or lack thereof about feedback provided during clinical training. The aim of this study was to determine the perceptions of podiatry students on feedback given or received during clinical training.

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey design study in which a four‐section self‐constructed questionnaire was used to collect data from podiatry students in their 2nd to 4th ‐year of study. Simple descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative responses with free text comments yielding qualitative data, which has been used to give more insight into the quantitative findings.

Results

Analyses showed that 8% of students were satisfied, 52% were sometimes satisfied and 37% were not satisfied with the feedback. The majority (86%) of students indicated they would prefer to receive feedback in private. Seventy‐three percent of students received positive (reinforcing) and negative (corrective) feedback at the same time.

Conclusion

Students agree that feedback is an essential component of the clinical learning process and appreciate constructive regular feedback whether negative or positive in nature. Additionally, students understand that feedback regardless of its type has the potential to identify areas of development, reinforce good practice and motivate them to work toward their learning outcome expectations. However, there is a need to consider issues such as setting and timing when giving feedback.
The 678 Hz acoustic immittance probe tone: A more definitive indicator of PET than the traditional 226 Hz method
Authors: Pyne Justin M. , Lawen Tarek Ibrahim , Floyd Duncan D. , Bance Manohar
Published: July 2018

Background

The accurate diagnosis of Eustachian tube (ET) dysfunction can be very difficult. Our aim is to determine whether a 678 Hz probe tone is a more accurate indicator of Patulous ET (PET) than the 226 Hz probe tone when used in compliance over time (COT) testing.

Methods

Twenty subjects (11 normal ET ears and 7 PET ears) were individually seated in an examination room and connected to a GSI TympStar Middle Ear Analyzer. The order of probe tone frequency (678 or 226 Hz) was randomized. Baseline “testing” COT recordings for each ear undergoing testing were completed. Subjects were instructed to occlude their contralateral nostril and to breathe forcefully in and out through their ipsilateral nostril until the test had run to completion. This process was repeated with the probe tone that had not been previously run. For the control group, each subject had one random ear tested. For the experimental group, only the affected ear(s) was tested. Wilcoxon rank rum tests were performed to determine statistical significance.

Results

The baseline COT measurements for the control group and PET group were similar, 0.86 mL (SD = 0.34) and 0.74 (SD = 0.33) respectively. Comparing the 226 Hz tone between groups revealed that PET patients had a median COT difference 0.19 mL higher than healthy ET patients, and for the 678 Hz tone, PET patients had a median COT difference of 0.57 mL higher than healthy ET patients. Both were deemed to be statistically significant ( p = 0.002, p = 0.004 respectively). The was a statistically significant median COT difference between the 678 Hz and 226 Hz of 0.61 mL ( p = 0.034) for the PET group, while the same comparison for the control group of 0.05 mL was not significant ( p = 0.262), suggesting that the 678 Hz tone yields a larger response for PET than the 226 Hz tone, and no difference for the control group, thus making it less prone to artifact noise interference.

Conclusion

The 678 Hz probe tone is a more reliable indicator of ET patency, and should be preferably used over the 226 Hz tone for future COT testing.
One world. One diverse, evolving geophysical community
Authors: Hollis Dan
Published: July 2018

In our geophysical community, you might find a technician from a small geophysical company located in a small Oklahoma town who is working in a remote area of China. At the same time, you might find a geophysicist trained in China and Canada who is working on redeveloping an oil field not far from that same small Oklahoma town. In our community, you will see geophysicists around the world who have spent their careers interpreting 3D reflection data and who are now learning to use new technologies, such as machine learning and passive seismology, to improve and guide field development in unconventional plays.
Velocity model building in the major basins of the eastern Mediterranean Sea for imaging regional prospectivity
Authors: El-Bassiony Ahmed , Kumar Jyoti , Martin Tony
Published: July 2018

Hydrocarbon prospectivity in the eastern Mediterranean is challenged by the presence of the Messinian salt layer, which varies in complexity across the area. The macro salt layer geometry itself varies from the deep abyssal planes in the middle of two major basins (the Herodotus and Levant basins), where it shows simple top and base relief to more complicated geometries near the continental salt-free shelf. Building depth velocity models for imaging the eastern Mediterranean basins requires accurate determination of the complex salt top and base, as well as accurate estimation of their velocities. Since 2006, many 2D and 3D megasurveys using conventional and dual-sensor acquisitions have been carried out across the area. Regional and relatively simple velocity models are used to image the Messinian salt layer extensions from offshore West Egypt to offshore Lebanon, passing by the Cypriot waters and the Eratosthenes Seamount. The data acquired include shallow and deepwater surveys, and technologies such as full-waveform inversion are applied to produce high-resolution images for the shallow post-Messinian section. Shallow-water imaging challenges such as acquisition footprint issues and low-angle illumination are solved by imaging with multiples using dual-sensor acquisition data. The Messinian salt layer is modeled with a simple constant regional velocity, while the pre-Messinian section is modeled with a simple combination of velocity gradient models. The regional model-building scheme introduces a good correction for the pre-Messinian structure and provides reliable multiclient data ready for outlining new prospects.
Regional Differences in the Prevalence of Coronary Heart Disease and Stroke in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in China
Authors: Lyu Yuanjun , Luo Yingying , Li Changping , Guo Xiaohui , Lu Juming , Wu Honghua , Huo Xiaoxu , Gu Weijun , Yang Guoqing , Ji Linong , Yang Xilin
Published: July 2018

Background

There are large regional variations in the prevalence and mortality of cardiovascular disease in general populations in China. It remains uncertain whether the prevalence in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) varies by region in China.

Methods

We analyzed data of 219,522 Chinese patients with T2DM retrieved from the China National HbA1c Surveillance System in 2012. We used the Chinese population distribution in 2010 to standardize prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, and composite of both in 30 provinces and seven geological regions. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to obtain ORs and CIs of provinces/geological regions for CHD, stroke, and composite of both.

Results

Age and sex standardized prevalence of CHD, stroke, and composite of both was, respectively, 4.59% (95% CI, 4.58 to 4.60), 1.79% (1.79 to 1.80), and 5.85% (5.84 to 5.86), in contrast to 0.60% of CHD, 0.80% of stroke, and 1.37% of composite of both in the general population in China. After adjustment for traditional risk factors, Northeast had the highest risks of CHD, stroke, and composite of both, and North had the second highest risks of CHD, stroke, and composite of both among the seven regions, both being higher than any other regions (all P values < 0.05). The ORs of Northeast vs Southwest were up to 2.60 (2.35 to 2.88) for CHD, 2.49 (2.15 to 2.88) for stroke, and 2.61 (2.38 to 2.86) for composite of both.

Conclusions

There were large variations in risks of CHD, stroke, and composite of both in T2DM in China with Northeast and North having the highest risks.
Impact of ambient temperature on energy cost and economical speed during level walking in healthy young males
Authors: Horiuchi Masahiro , Handa Yoko , Fukuoka Yoshiyuki
Published: July 2018

We measured oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide output during walking per unit distance (Cw) values for 14 healthy young males at seven speeds from 0.67 to 1.67 m s−1 (four min per stage) under thermoneutral (23°C), cool (13°C), and hot (33°C) environments. The Cw at faster gait speeds in the 33°C trial was slightly higher compared to those in the 23°C and 13°C trials. We found a significant main effect of speed and an interaction in the Cw though no significance in main effect of condition (P<0.05). Economical speed (ES) which can minimize the Cw in each individual was calculated from a U-shaped relationship. We found a significantly slower ES at 33°C [1.265 (0.060) m s−1 mean (s.d.)] compared to 23°C [1.349 (0.077) m s−1] and 13°C [1.356 (0.078) m s−1, P<0.05, respectively] with no differences between 23°C and 13°C (P>0.05). Heart rate and mean skin temperature responses in the 33°C condition increased throughout the walking trial compared to 23°C and 13°C (all P<0.05). These results suggest that an acute hot environment slowed the ES by∼7%, but an acute cool environment did not affect the Cw and ES.
Epigenetic modifications by polyphenolic compounds alter gene expression in the hippocampus
Authors: Frolinger Tal , Herman Francis , Sharma Ali , Sims Steven , Wang Jun , Pasinetti Giulio Maria
Published: July 2018

In this study, we developed an experimental protocol leveraging enhanced reduced representation bisulphite sequencing to investigate methylation and gene expression patterns in the hippocampus in response to polyphenolic compounds. We report that the administration of a standardized bioavailable polyphenolic preparation (BDPP) differentially influences methylated cytosine patterns in introns, UTR and exons in hippocampal genes. We subsequently established that dietary BDPP-mediated changes in methylation influenced the transcriptional pattern of select genes that are involved in synaptic plasticity. In addition, we showed dietary BDPP mediated changes in the transcriptional pattern of genes associated with epigenetic modifications, including members of the DNA methyl transferase family (DNMTs) and the Ten eleven translocation methyl-cytosine dioxygenases family (TETs). We then identified the specific brain bioavailable polyphenols effective in regulating the transcription of DNMTs, TETs and a subset of differentially methylated synaptic plasticity-associated genes. The study implicates the regulation of gene expression in the hippocampus by epigenetic mechanisms as a novel therapeutic target for dietary polyphenols.
Soft, Wet and Ionic Microelectrode Systems
Authors: Nishizawa Matsuhiko
Published: July 2018

Engineering the interface between electric devices and ionic biosystems is of central importance to the advancement of biomedical devices. We have developed organic electrodes that are soft and moist like biological systems. Their larger interfacial capacitance is of advantage for the low-invasive electrical stimulation of cells and tissues without cytotoxic faradaic reactions. Conducting polymer-based composite electrodes developed here were useful for bioassay and medical treatments. The performance of enzyme-modified electrodes, which are the core component of biosensors and biofuel cells, was found to be greatly improved by utilizing nanostructures of carbon nanotubes (CNT). Self-powered sensors and skin patches were realized by using built-in biofuel cells with the CNT-based enzyme electrodes.
A Safe, Simple, and Facile Staining Method Using Polysiloxanes for High-Contrast Visualization of Gelator Aggregates by Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Hanabusa Kenji , Nakashima Masashi , Funatsu Eriko , Kishi Sachiyo , Suzuki Masahiro
Published: July 2018

The staining of TEM samples using Si atoms was investigated using aggregates of loose gels formed by twelve structurally different gelators in several solvents. Thirteen commercially available siloxanes were used as stains. TEM images of non-stained and OsO4-stained samples of molecular aggregates formed by the dodecamethylenediamide of N-methacryloyloxyethylaminocarbonyl-l-isoleucine in 1-propanol were poorly defined and low-contrast. However, the image of a methacryloyloxypropyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (S1)-stained sample was characterized by very clear bundles of fine fibers. The staining effect was explained by the wrapping of fibers, the stabilizing of the individual fibers, and reinforcing by S1. An S1 concentration of more than 5 mg mL−1 was found to be necessary for satisfactory contrast. S1 was successfully applied to the observation of aggregates of eleven other gelators. S1 worked universally as an aggregate stain regardless of the gelator or solvent polarity. The staining effect was observed for other siloxanes. This effect was found to depend on the molecular weight of the siloxane (>1,000) rather than the kind of siloxane employed. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy indicated that the molecules of S1 gather on the surface of the fibers during drying, wrapping them. The results indicate that the present staining method guarantees reproducibility and universality.
Sport and Triad Risk Factors Influence Bone Mineral Density in Collegiate Athletes
Authors: TENFORDE ADAM S. , CARLSON JENNIFER L. , SAINANI KRISTIN L. , CHANG AUDREY O. , KIM JAE HYUNG , GOLDEN NEVILLE H. , FREDERICSON MICHAEL
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Athletes in weight-bearing sports may benefit from higher bone mineral density (BMD). However, some athletes are at risk for impaired BMD with female athlete triad (Triad). The purpose of this study is to understand the influence of sports participation and Triad on BMD. We hypothesize that athletes in high-impact and multidirectional loading sports will have highest BMD, whereas nonimpact and low-impact sports will have lowest BMD. Triad risk factors are expected to reduce BMD values independent of sports participation.

Methods

Two hundred thirty-nine female athletes participating in 16 collegiate sports completed dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans to measure BMDz-scores of the lumbar spine (LS) and total body (TB). Height and weight were measured to calculate body mass index (BMI). Triad risk assessment variables were obtained from preparticipation examination. Mean BMDz-scores were compared between sports and by sport category (high-impact, multidirectional, low-impact, and nonimpact). Multivariable regression analyses were performed to identify differences of BMDz-scores accounting for Triad and body size/composition.

Results

Athlete populations with lowest average BMDz-scores included synchronized swimming (LS, −0.34; TB, 0.21) swimming/diving (LS, 0.34; TB, −0.06), crew/rowing (LS, 0.27; TB, 0.62), and cross-country (LS, 0.29; TB, 0.91). Highest values were in gymnastics (LS, 1.96; TB, 1.37), volleyball (LS, 1.90; TB, 1.74), basketball (LS, 1.73; TB, 1.99), and softball (LS, 1.68; TB, 1.78). All Triad risk factors were associated with lower BMDz-scores in univariable analyses; only low BMI and oligomenorrhea/amenorrhea were associated in multivariable analyses (allP< 0.05). Accounting for Triad risk factors and body size/composition, high-impact sports were associated with higher LS and TB BMDz-scores and nonimpact sports with lower LS and TB BMDz-scores compared to low-impact sport (allP< 0.05).

Conclusions

Both sport type and Triad risk factors influence BMD. Athletes in low-impact and nonimpact sports and athletes with low BMI and oligomenorrhea/amenorrhea are at highest risk for reduced BMD.
The Political Economy of Municipal Pension Funding
Authors: Brinkman Jeffrey , Coen-Pirani Daniele , Sieg Holger
Published: July 2018

Many US municipalities have committed to pay retirement benefits to public sector employees but have not saved enough to fulfill these obligations. This paper studies the determinants of municipal pension funding and its implications for intergenerational redistribution using an overlapping generations model. Under perfect capital markets, pension funding choices are fully capitalized into land prices. This neutrality result fails if agents face a binding downpayment constraint in the land market: old agents prefer a pay-as-you go system, while young agents find a fully funded system optimal. Empirical evidence based on cross-city comparisons of pension liabilities is consistent with these predictions. (JEL H72, H75, J32, J45)
Η ΕΧΙΝΟΚΟΚΚΙΑΣΙΣ ΤΩΝ ΜΗΡΥΚΑΣΤΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΧΟΙΡΩΝ ΕΝ ΕΛΛΑΔΙ
Authors: ΠΑΠΑΧΡΙΣΤΟΦΙΛΟΥ Φ.
Published: July 2018

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
Η ΕΠΙΣΚΛΗΡΙΔΙΟΣ ΑΝΑΙΣΘΗΣΙΑ ΕΝ ΤΗ, ΚΤΗΝΙΑΤΡΙΚΗ
Authors: ΑΣΠΙΩΤΗΣ ΝΙΚ.
Published: July 2018

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
A systematic review and critical analysis of cost-effectiveness studies for coronary artery disease treatment
Authors: McCreanor Victoria , Graves Nicholas , Barnett Adrian G , Parsonage Will , Merlo Gregory
Published: July 2018

Background: Cardiovascular disease remains the primary cause of death among Australians, despite dramatic improvements in overall cardiovascular health since the 1980s. Treating cardiovascular disease continues to place a significant economic strain on the Australian health care system, with direct healthcare costs exceeding those of any other disease. Coronary artery disease accounts for nearly one third of these costs and spending continues to rise.

A range of treatments is available for coronary artery disease yet evidence of cost-effectiveness is missing, particularly for the Australian context. Cost-effectiveness evidence can signal waste and inefficiency and so is essential for an efficient allocation of healthcare resources.

Methods: We used systematic review methods to search the literature across several electronic databases for economic evaluations of treatments for stable coronary artery disease.  We critically appraised the literature found in searches, both against the CHEERS statement for quality reporting of economic evaluations and in terms of its usefulness for policy and decision-makers.

Results: We retrieved a total of 308 references, 229 once duplicates were removed. Of these, 26 were excluded as they were not full papers (letters, editorials etc.), 55 were review papers, 50 were not cost-effectiveness analyses and 93 related to a highly specific patient sub-group or did not consider all treatment options.  This left five papers to be reviewed in full.

Conclusions: The current cost-effectiveness evidence does not support the increased use of PCI that has been seen in Australia and internationally. Due to problems with accessibility, clarity and relevance to policy and decision-makers, some otherwise very scientifically rigorous analyses have failed to generate any policy changes.
Analysis of a large food chemical database: chemical space, diversity, and complexity
Authors: Naveja J. Jesús , Rico-Hidalgo Mariel P. , Medina-Franco José L.
Published: July 2018

Background: Food chemicals are a cornerstone in the food industry. However, its chemical diversity has been explored on a limited basis, for instance, previous analysis of food-related databases were done up to 2,200 molecules. The goal of this work was to quantify the chemical diversity of chemical compounds stored in FooDB, a database with nearly 24,000 food chemicals.

Methods: The visual representation of the chemical space of FooDB was done with ChemMaps, a novel approach based on the concept of chemical satellites. The large food chemical database was profiled based on physicochemical properties, molecular complexity and scaffold content. The global diversity of FoodDB was characterized using Consensus Diversity Plots.

Results: It was found that compounds in FooDB are very diverse in terms of properties and structure, with a large structural complexity. It was also found that one third of the food chemicals are acyclic molecules and ring-containing molecules are mostly monocyclic, with several scaffolds common to natural products in other databases.

Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first analysis of the chemical diversity and complexity of FooDB. This study represents a step further to the emerging field of “Food Informatics”. Future study should compare directly the chemical structures of the molecules in FooDB with other compound databases, for instance, drug-like databases and natural products collections.
Tuberculous meningitis diagnosis and outcomes during the Xpert MTB/Rif era: a 6.5-year cohort study in Uganda
Authors: Cresswell Fiona V. , Bangdiwala Ananta S. , Bahr Nathan C. , Trautner Emily , Nuwagira Edwin , Ellis Jayne P. , Rajasingham Radha , Rhein Joshua , Williams Darlisha A. , Muzoora Conrad , Elliott Alison M. , Meya David B. , Boulware David R.
Published: July 2018

Background: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM), a leading cause of meningitis in sub-Saharan Africa, is notoriously difficult to diagnose. In our Ugandan setting TB diagnostics have evolved rapidly in recent years, with introduction of Xpert MTB/Rif (Xpert) in 2011 and culture in 2013. We aim to describe the impact of improved TBM diagnostics at two Ugandan hospitals between 2010 and 2017.

Methods: Adults presenting with meningitis (headache and objective meningism) were assessed for eligibility for enrolment in two consecutive trials investigating cryptococcal meningitis. Cohort one received cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) smear microscopy only (2010-2013). Cohort two received smear microscopy and Xpert on 1ml unprocessed CSF at physician discretion (2011-2013). Cohort three received smear microscopy, routine liquid-media culture and Xpert on large volume CSF (2013-2017) for all meningitis suspects with a negative CSF cryptococcal antigen (crAg). In a post-hoc analysis of three prospective cohorts, we compare rates of microbiologically confirmed TBM and hospital outcomes over time.

Results: 1672 predominantly HIV-infected adults underwent lumbar puncture, of which 33% (558/1672) had negative CSF crAg and 12% (195/1672) were treated for TBM. Over the study period, microbiological confirmation of TBM increased from 3% to 41% (P<0.01) and there was a decline in in-hospital mortality from 57% to 41% (P=0.27). Adjusting for definite TBM and antiretroviral therapy, and using imputed data, the odds of dying were nearly twice as high in cohort one (adjusted odds ratio 1.7, 95% CI 0.7 to 4.4) compared to cohort three.  Sensitivity of Xpert was 63% (38/60) and culture was 65% (39/60) against a composite reference standard.

Conclusions: Since 2010, as TBM diagnostics have evolved, microbiologically-confirmed TBM diagnoses have increased significantly. There has been a non-significant decline in TBM in-hospital mortality but due to multiple possible confounding factors it is not possible to conclude what has driven this decline in mortality.
Percepción del paisaje desde la mirada del turista de algunos espacios de transformación urbana de Medellín, Colombia
Authors: López Zapata Ledys Vianey , Sepúlveda Wilmar Mauricio , Gómez Gómez Johan Sebastián
Published: July 2018

Las políticas de intervención urbana han contribuido con la revitalización de diferentes ciudades alrededor del mundo, lo que genera zonas con vocación para el turismo en territorios transformados urbanísticamente y algunos con características de asentamientos precarios. Este artículo presenta los resultados de la investigación sobre la percepción del visitante en los territorios de transformación urbana de Medellín, Colombia, se utiliza una estrategia de investigación descriptivade enfoque mixto. Como principales hallazgos se encuentra que las zonas de  estudio son frecuentadas principalmente por turistas internacionales (68 %), los cuales presentan mayores niveles de interacción con la población local (67 %) y consumen con mayor frecuencia productos y servicios ofrecidos por estos (65 %).
La evaluación del espacio público de ciudades intermedias de Chile desde la perspectiva de sus habitantes: implicaciones para la intervención urbana
Authors: Páramo Pablo , Burbano Andrea , Palomo-Vélez Gonzalo , Moyano Emilio
Published: July 2018

A diferencia de las evaluaciones del espacio público urbano realizadas de ‘arriba hacia abajo’, ‘objetivistas’ o desde los ‘expertos’, se busca aquí identificar las evaluaciones de los habitantes mismos de la ciudad. Se mide y reporta la importancia y la satisfacción que experimentan 138 habitantes de la ciudad de Talca (202 000 mil habitantes, Chile) quienes respondieron un cuestionario de47 ítems referidos a la importancia y satisfacción en relación con diferentes aspectos del espacio público de la ciudad. Un análisis de escalamiento multidimensional muestra que las personas evaluaron las condiciones de salud, los conciertos de música, el entorno, los espacios deportivos y la movilidad como los aspectos más importantes de la calidad de la vida urbana, mientras que informaron estar insatisfechos con diversos aspectos del espacio público, en particular, con elruido y el comercio en las calles. Todas las dimensiones específicas de la satisfacción correlacionan positivamente con la satisfacción global con la calidad del espacio público. Los resultados se discuten sobre la necesidad de generar mecanismos de participación y evaluación de la Calidad de Vida Urbana y su incorporación a la planificación y gestión urbanas.
Fragmentación urbana por medio de redes de agua: el caso de Cochabamba, Bolivia
Authors: Cabrera Quispe Juan Edson
Published: July 2018

Ante la limitada capacidad del sector público en Bolivia para dotar de servicios básicos e infraestructuras al interior del área metropolitana de Cochabamba, decenas de organizaciones vecinales desarrollan prácticas y estrategias dirigidas a la autogestión de diferentes servicios, entre ellos el agua para consumo humano. estas estrategias alrededor de la autogestión del servicio de agua son desarrolladas por una serie de operadores locales de pequeña escala, pequeñas organizaciones  barriales cuyo fin principal es garantizar el acceso a servicios de agua mediante la administración de pequeños sistemas y redes de servicio de agua. Su acción permite el equitativo y permanente acceso al recurso; sin embargo, sus estrategias devienen en escenarios de fragmentación urbana donde cunden fuertes procesos de dislocación social, con pérdida de solidaridad entre vecinos y la división de la ciudad en centenares de fragmentos.
POTENCIAL EROSIVO DE PERFIL DE SOLO DE TALUDE DE CORTE ATRAVÉS DE ENSAIOS DE INDERBITZEN / EROSIVE POTENTIAL OF A CUT SLOPE SOIL PROFILE THROUGH INDERBITZEN TESTS
Authors: Moreira Rafael Ferro , Polivanov Helena
Published: July 2018

A sub-bacia do rio Sana apresenta feições erosivas indicativas de elevada susceptibilidade à erosão em caso de exposição dos solos, embora se encontre preservada por ser um local turístico e de pequena ocupação. Ao longo da sua estrada principal, taludes de corte expõem solos erodíveis que geram problemas de ordem social e econômica. Assim, este trabalho tem como objetivo a classificação da erodibilidade comparativa desses materiais através da consistência e da massa erodida pelo escoamento superficial e salpicamento, de forma a caracterizar suas erodibilidades. Foi selecionado um talude de corte com características que representam os solos da região e foram coletadas amostras deformadas e indeformadas de horizontes pedológicos (B) e saprolíticos (C) para a realização de ensaios caracterização física e geotécnica, através de ensaios de Inderbitzen modificados. As análises mostraram que os horizontes saprolíticos são bem mais erodíveis que os pedológicos, portanto os cortes de taludes na região devem ser realizados levando em consideração essas diferenças de erodibilidade entre os horizontes de forma a reduzir os riscos de escorregamento e os custos com obras de contenção como também garantir a segurança da população.
A TEORIA E A PRÁTICA NA FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES DE GEOGRAFIA NA MODALIDADE SEMIPRESENCIAL / THEORY AND PRACTICE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF GEOGRAPHY TEACHERS THROUGH DISTANCE EDUCATION MODALITY
Authors: Marafon Glaucio José , Martins Anercilia , Teófilo Vanilda
Published: July 2018

O presente trabalho relata a experiência realizada ao longo do curso de formação de licenciandos nas disciplinas de Teoria e Prática em Geografia no sistema semipresencial do curso de Licenciatura em Geografia da UERJ/CEDERJ. Objetiva-se destacar a importância da transposição didática especialmente em um curso na modalidade EaD, na forma como a entendemos, na qual o aprendizado não acontece de forma acidental, mas, ao contrário, requer planejamento e técnicas específicas, ocorrendo fora dos espaços convencionais de ensino, considerando que a comunicação se dá por meio de diferentes tecnologias. A metodologia foi alicerçada nas bases teóricas do construtivismo e do sociointeracionismo. A intenção é contribuir para uma melhor preparação dos licenciandos, para que eles atuem em um sistema de educação inclusiva, no âmbito do qual a pluralidade de subjetividades e saberes seja privilegiada, mesmo com a ciência das dificuldades e dos desafios a serem enfrentados no contexto de formação de professores.
Elements of a shared theory of science for design
Authors: Galle Per
Published: July 2018

Higher education for the design professions – designers, architects and engineers – has been combining traditional disciplines of research and design in new ways, into what is now known as design research. As a discipline in its own right, design research is still quite young, and the design professions need a theory of science that takes their specific character into account, thus contributing to their self-image, and locating them in the greater landscape of research. Using philosophically oriented conceptual analysis I develop a system of basic concepts as elements of such a theory of science for the design professions. The concepts of design, research and design research are analysed, clarified and coordinated, in relation to concepts such as knowledge, theory and practice. At the same time I propose a precise, yet intuitive, terminology that may be shared and foster cross-disciplinary understanding and communication among the design professions, and which each of them can expand for purposes of its own.
A Review: The Emerging Nutraceutical Potential of Pumpkin Seeds
Authors: Lestari Beni , Meiyanto Edy
Published: July 2018

The pumpkin, belongs to the family of Cucurbitaceae, is a well-known edible plant that has been frequently used as functional food or herbal medicine. Pumpkins contain rich unsaturated fatty acids, phytoestrogens and vitamins E in their seeds that have potential pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmeceutical properties. Information regarding their nutritional components and therapeutic properties of pumpkin seeds has expanded dynamically in the recent years and this review focus on the three main components of pumpkin seeds that described before. Several types of unsaturated fatty acids are the dominant composition in pumpkin seeds which can play a role in the disease prevention and promote health. Pumpkin seeds also contain the important phytoestrogen compounds, i.e., secoisolariciresinol and lariciresinol that have estrogenic-like effect such as preventing hyperlipidemia and osteoporosis for menopausal women. Phytoestrogens in pumpkin seeds also could be related to a reduced hormone-dependent tumor. Pumpkin seeds are rich in vitamin E contents as an emerging free radical scavenger, antiaging and antioxidant such as a-tocopherol and g-tocopherol. Findings of these studies prove that patents field for the innovation product of pumpkin seeds holds promise for the future along with their immense nutraceutical properties.
Between Ramus, Alexander of Aphrodisias and Averroes. Francesco Vimercato’s Commentary to Book Twelve of Aristotle’s Metaphysics
Authors: Facca Danilo
Published: July 2018

What kind of causality does the Aristotelian Prime Mover exert on the heaven? Who “loves” the Prime Mover? Renaissance peripatetic philosopher, Francesco Vimercato, a “royal” teacher of “Greek and Latin philosophy” in Paris during the forties and the fifties of the 16th century tried to resolve these traditional puzzles that resulted from the exegesis of the Metaphysics XII, 6–7. His solution appears to be innovative, if compared to the ancient and the medieval ones. It seems partially to prefigure the last two decades’ interpretations of Aristotelian “theology”.
Aristotle’s Lost Work On Philosophy
Authors: Pacewicz Artur
Published: July 2018

This article offers a Polish translation of Aristotle’s treatise, On Philosophy, of which only certain fragments and testimonies have been preserved. The translation is supplied with an introduction presenting the history of various interpretations and reconstructions of Aristotle’s work.
Editorial
Authors: Oxford Rebecca L. , Pawlak Mirosław
Published: July 2018

We welcome you to our special issue of Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching (SSLLT). Our focus is language learning strategies, or LLS. We have been discussing the need for this special issue for years. Over coffee, sodas, or Chardonnet at many conferences and via emails and Skype, we discussed urgent issues in LLS assessment, research, and instruction.SSLLT, like many journals, has published numerous articles involving LLS, and other journals have had special issues on LLS. However, the time is ripe for a special issue that systematically includes LLS for all language skill areas, all major cross-cutting language subsystems such as grammar, and some important yet often ignored topics, such as strategies for learning culture and for technology-enhanced language learning (TELL), which greatly advances decades of research on computer-assisted language learning (CALL). We have gathered articles from a talented team of researchers, most of them well-known and the others rising stars. The articles in this special issue directly involve LLS research in several world regions and allude to such research in many more regions.
Investigating the use of speaking strategies in the performance of two communicative tasks: The importance of communicative goal
Authors: Pawlak Mirosław
Published: July 2018

Although the ability to speak is usually seen as a key manifestation of learners’ ability in the target language they are attempting to master, research has not given ample attention to strategies that can be employed to enhance this skill. In fact, the bulk of such empirical investigations has mainly focused on communication strategies that are reactive devices, predominantly used to overcome difficulties in successful conveyance of meanings and messages, and even this line of inquiry has been neglected in recent years. The study reported in this paper aims to partially bridge this gap by examining the speaking strategies that advanced learners of English used in the performance of two communicative tasks, differing in the extent to which the participants were required to make a contribution to their successful completion. The data collected by means of open-ended questionnaires that were administered immediately after the completion of the two tasks yielded crucial insights into the nature of the speaking strategies and the ways in which the communicative goals inherent in task type influenced the choice of speaking strategies.
Validation of an online questionnaire of vocabulary learning strategies for ESL learners
Authors: Gu Peter Yongqi
Published: July 2018

This article reports on the updating and validation of a questionnaire for vocabulary learning strategies. An English as a second language (ESL) version of the Vocabulary Learning Questionnaire (VLQ), first published in Gu and Johnson (1996), was created based on its latest version. Two response formats were piloted, that is, a paper version with a 7-point Likert scale and an online version with a 100-point slider bar. A series of validation procedures resulted in a 62-item instrument which was then administered online among 682 English language learners at the tertiary level in China. The paper presents evidence of content validity, construct validity, internal consistency reliability, and predictive validity. It also provides suggestions for interpreting and using the questionnaire for both research and instructional purposes.
Essential norm of weighted composition operators
Authors: Raj Kuldip , Sharma Charu
Published: July 2018

In the present paper we characterize the compact, invertible, Fredholm and closed range weighted composition
operators on Cesàro function spaces. We also make an effort to compute the essential norm of weighted composition operators.
Severe congenital autoimmune neutropenia in preterm monozygotic twins: case series and literature review
Authors: Abdelhamid Rehab , Yusuf Kamran , Lodha Abhay , Al Awad Essa Hamadan
Published: July 2018

The presence of high levels of neutrophil associated immunoglobulins (NAIG) in the serum of newborns with neutropenia and their mothers is usually associated with the diagnosis of allo-immune neonatal neutropenia (AINN). We describe a set of otherwise healthy late preterm monozygotic twins who presented with an isolated severe neonatal neutropenia on the first day of life. Flow cytometry for neutrophil antibody screen for both twins detected elevated levels of NAIG with normal serum levels of allo anti-neutrophil antibody (allo-NAB). Maternal serum did not contain either NAIG or allo-NAB. Also, the NAIG immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels were markedly increased in both twins if compared to the increase in the NAIG immunoglobulin G (IgG). Both twins showed very good response to a short course treatment with granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), they remained clinically well until 12 months of age. We suggest that this case may be an early presentation of autoimmune neutropenia of infancy. This case study is the earliest report of autoimmune neutropenia of infancy in preterm monozygotic twins.
Is cable yarding a dangerous occupation? A Survey from the public and private sector
Authors: Allman Michal , Allmanová Zuzana , Jankovský Martin
Published: July 2018

Cable yarding is a physically demanding and dangerous occupation in forest harvesting. Currently, the technology is gaining interest due to its low environmental impacts compared to the ground based technologies. This paper was focused on comparing the subjective opinions regarding occupational safety and work environment with objective findings found in the literature. We used a questionnaire with 33 questions, divided into three main parts: (i) personal traits of the participants; (ii) occupation description; and (iii) the occupational risks identified the participants. The sample consisted of 92 workers who operated cable yarders from both the public and the private sector. Our survey showed that 90% of public and 75% of private sector employees view their work as physically very demanding. Regarding risky behaviour, 50% of public, and 54% of private employees stated they risked only when the circumstances forced them to. However, more than 41% of public and 50% of private employees stated they suffered an occupational accident in the last ten years of working with this technology. Considering the workers worked in unstable climatic conditions, on unstable terrain, and the work environment presents other hazards, such as the loads, sharp tools and equipment, this result was not surprising.
The regioselective catalyst-free synthesis of bis-quinoxalines and bis-pyrido[2,3-b]pyrazines by double condensation of 1,4-phenylene-bis-glyoxal with 1,2-diamines
Authors: Ahmadi Sabegh Mehdi , Khalafy Jabbar
Published: July 2018

The oxidation of 1,4-diacetylbenzene using several oxidizing agents gave 1,4-phenylene-bis-glyoxal in 61–85% yields. A convenient and efficient synthesis of bis-quinoxaline and bis-pyrido[2,3-b]pyrazine derivatives involves the double condensation of 1,2-diamines with 1,4-phenylene-bis-glyoxal in ethanol under reflux conditions. The structures of the new products were defined by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and mass spectrometry (MS).
Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy – A New Approach in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction after Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Stoykov Boyan A. , Kolev Nikolay H. , P.Kotsev Rumen , Al-Shargabi Fahd , Genov Pencho P. , Vanov Aleksandar , Atanasov Jitian A. , Sachdeva Manish , Tonchev Pencho T. , Koleva Maria I.
Published: July 2018

The experience accumulated with low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT) from international clinical trials has demonstrated its safety, efficacy and good tolerance in treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the effect of LI-ESWT in patients with ED after bilateral nerve sparing radical surgery for prostate cancer. Twenty-seven patients underwent bilateral nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP) at the clinic of urology of the university hospital in Pleven between January 2016 and December 2016. Twenty-one of these patients had pre-operative preserved erectile function (EF), as reported according to the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Postoperatively, these 21 patients experienced a mild (18-21 points) impairment of EF. In 10 patients (group 1), LI-ESWT was performed. The procedure was performed once a week for 6 weeks with a LI-ESWT (BTL 6000 SWT Topline) instrument. The reading was obtained with IIEF-5 on the third and sixth month after the end of therapy. The other 11 patients (group 2) were used as a control group and did not receive treatment. In 5 patients in group 1, a recovery of EF (> 21 points) as per IIEF-5 was recorded at the third month after treatment. In two patients, the same score was recorded at the sixth month. No improvement was seen in three men in group 1. In the controls (group 2), a spontaneous EF improvement in four patients at sixth month was registered. Despite the small number of patients and their short-term follow-up, our initial results indicate that LI-ESWT is effective, safe and well-tolerated. It could be an alternative for early penis rehabilitation in patients who have undergone BNSRRP.