bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Performances of MWCNT in Concrete Composites
Authors: Sharif Mahadi , Ping Chew Sue , Leong Kin Yuen
Published: October 2017

Carbon nanotube (CNT) acts as electromagnetic interference shielding material in concrete composites was presented in this paper. Three concrete samples respectively with different CNT contents were casted and experimentally tested their shielding effectiveness (SE). The SE measurements which were obtained in function of frequency were taken using vector network analyzer (VNA) in the frequency range of 2.4 - 4.0 GHz. The experimental results showed that the CNT contributes to change in conductivity due to the positioning of the electric field of the incident wave and thus, produces different shielding performances. The EMI SE of concrete composites is improved up to 41dB with CNT concentration of 1.5-2.0 wt%.
Multi-Response Optimization of EDM for Ti-6Al-4V Using Taguchi - Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Joshi Ritesh , Zinzala Gopal , Nirmal Nishit , Fuse Kishan
Published: October 2017

Ti-6Al-4V is a titanium alloy having high strength, low weight and corrosion resistant which is a required characteristic for a material to be used in aerospace industry. Titanium, being a hard alloy is difficult to the machine via conventional methods so it is a call to use non-conventional processes. In present work, the effects on Ti-6Al-4V by drilling a hole of Ø 6 mm using copper (99%) electrode in electric discharge machining (EDM) process is analyzed. Experiments were performed under different operating conditions of peak current, pulse-on time and pulse-off time. Multi-objective optimization technique Grey relational analysis is used for process optimization of material removal rate (MRR) and electrode wear rate (EWR). Experiments are designed using an L9 orthogonal array. ANOVA is used for finding most contributing parameter followed by confirmation tests for validating the results.
Changes in Antimicrobial Prescribing Behavior after the Introduction of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program: A Pre- and Post-Intervention Survey
Authors: Chavada Ruchir , Walker Harry N. , Tong Deborah , Murray Amy
Published: October 2017

The introduction of an antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) program is associated with a change in antimicrobial prescribing behavior. A proposed mechanism for this change is by impacting the prescribing etiquette described in qualitative studies. This study sought to detect a change in prescribing attitudes 12 months after the introduction of AMS and gauge utility of various AMS interventions. Surveys were distributed to doctors in two regional Australian hospitals on a convenience basis 6 months before, and 12 months after, the introduction of AMS. Agreement with 20 statements describing attitudes (cultural, behavioral and knowledge) towards antimicrobial prescribing was assessed on a 4-point Likert scale. Mean response scores were compared using the Wilcoxon Rank sum test. 155 responses were collected before the introduction of AMS, and 144 afterwards. After the introduction of AMS, an increase was observed in knowledge about available resources such as electronic decision support systems (EDSS) and therapeutic guidelines, with raised awareness about the support available through AMS rounds and the process to be followed when prescribing restricted antimicrobials. Additionally, doctors were less likely to rely on pharmacy to ascertain when an antimicrobial was restricted, depend on infectious diseases consultant advice and use past experience to guide antimicrobial prescribing. Responses to this survey indicate that positive changes to the antimicrobial prescribing etiquette may be achieved with the introduction of an AMS program. Use of EDSS and other resources such as evidence-based guidelines are perceived to be important to drive rational antimicrobial prescribing within AMS programs.
Riesz transform on manifolds with quadratic curvature decay
Authors: Carron Gilles
Published: October 2017

We investigate the

L^p

-boundedness of the Riesz transform on Riemannian manifolds whose Ricci curvature has quadratic decay. Two criterions for the

L^p

-unboundedness of the Riesz transform are given. We recover known results about manifolds that are Euclidean or conical at infinity.
Note on uniformly transient graphs
Authors: Keller Matthias , Lenz H. Daniel , Schmidt Marcel , Wojciechowski Radosław K.
Published: October 2017

We study a special class of graphs with a strong transience feature called uniform transience. We characterize uniform transience via a Feller-type property and via validity of an isoperimetric inequality. We then give a further characterization via equality of the Royden boundary and the harmonic boundary and show that the Dirichlet problem has a unique solution for such graphs. The Markov semigroups and resolvents (with Dirichlet boundary conditions) on these graphs are shown to be ultracontractive. Moreover, if the underlying measure is finite, the semigroups and resolvents are trace class and their generators have

\ell^p

independent pure point spectra (for

1 \leq p \leq \infty

).

Examples of uniformly transient graphs include Cayley graphs of hyperbolic groups as well as trees and Euclidean lattices of dimension at least three. As a surprising consequence, the Royden compactification of such lattices turns out to be the one-point compactification and the Laplacians of such lattices have pure point spectrum if the underlying measure is chosen to be finite.
Controlled rough paths on manifolds I
Authors: Driver Bruce K. , Semko Jeremy S.
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we build the foundation for a theory of controlled rough paths on manifolds. A number of natural candidates for the definition of manifold valued controlled rough paths are developed and shown to be equivalent. The theory of controlled rough one-forms along such a controlled path and their resulting integrals are then defined. This general integration theory does require the introduction of an additional geometric structure on the manifold which we refer to as a “parallelism”. A choice of parallelism allows us to compare nearby tangent spaces on the manifold which is necessary to fully discuss controlled rough one-forms. The transformation properties of the theory under change of parallelisms is explored. Although the integration of a general controlled one-form along a rough path does depend on the choice of parallelism, we show for a special class of controlled one-forms – those which are the restriction of smooth one-forms on the manifold – the resulting path integral is in fact independent of any choice of parallelism. We present a theory of push-forwards and show how it is compatible with our integration theory. Lastly, we give a number of characterizations for solving a rough differential equation when the solution is interpreted as a controlled rough path on a manifold and then show such solutions exist and are unique.
Homotopy classes of Newtonian maps
Authors: Soultanis Elefterios
Published: October 2017

In this paper we study notions of homotopy in the Newtonian space

N^{1,p}(X;Y)

of Sobolev type maps between metric spaces. After studying the properties and relations of two different notions we prove a compactness result for sequences in homotopy classes with controlled homotopies.
Finite-dimensional pointed Hopf algebras over finite simple groups of Lie type III. Semisimple classes in PSL$_n(q)$
Authors: Andruskiewitsch Nicolás , Carnovale Giovanna , García Gastón Andrés
Published: October 2017

We show that Nichols algebras of most simple Yetter–Drinfeld modules over the projective special linear group over a finite field, corresponding to semisimple orbits, have infinite dimension. We introduce a new criterium to determine when a conjugacy class collapses and prove that for infinitely many pairs

(n,q)

, any finite-dimensional pointed Hopf algebra

H

with

G(H)\simeq\mathbf {PSL}_{n}(q)

or

\mathbf {SL}_{n}(q)

is isomorphic to a group algebra.
Some non-Pólya biquadratic fields with low ramification
Authors: Heidaryan Bahar , Rajaei Ali
Published: October 2017

Pólya fields are fields with principal Bhargava factorial ideals, and as a generalization of class number one number fields, their classification might be of interest to number theorists. It is known that Pólya fields have little ramification, and the aim of this paper is to prove non-Pólyaness of an infinite family of biquadratic number fields with 3 or 4 primes of ramification, correcting a minor mistake in the literature. It turns out that finer arithmetic invariants of the field such as the Hasse unit index plays a direct role in some cases.
Prevalence of bovine cysticercosis in Ikom abattoir, Nigeria
Authors: Bikom M.P. , Ifeyinwa O.R , Agiopu F.B , Benjamin A.R
Published: October 2017

A cross sectional study was conducted from October, 2015 to March, 2016 to determine the prevalence of bovine cysticercosis in Ikom abattoir of the central senatorial zone of Cross River State. A total of 778 cattle were slaughtered and examined out of which 180 were males and 598 were female. Eight (4.44%) of the males and 16 (2.68%) of the female examined were infected. Of the total cattle examined 233 were young cattle aged < 5 years and 545 old cattle aged > 5 years. Six(2.58) of the young and 18 (3.30%) of the old were infected. For the breeds, 433 White Fulani were examined , 15 (3.39%) were infected, Sokoto qudale 117 were examined , 5(4.27) were infected, Bokolo 189 were examined, 3(1.59) were infected and Muturu 29 were examined,1(3.45) was infected.The was no association between the disease and variables such as sex, age and breeds (x2= 1.45 1df, p< 0.05, x2= 0 . 29 1df, p<0. 05 and x= 2.1 3df, ) respectively. The 778 cattle slaughtered, showed that 24(3,08%) were infected with T saginata cystercosis.Examination of the predilection site of the cysts showed that 27.10% of the cysts were seen in masseter muscle, 23.23% triceps muscle, 22.58% tongue muscle, 17.74% liver, 5.80% Diaphragmatic muscle and intestinal muscle 3.55%. Both live ,calcified, and live and calcified cysts were recorded.Key words: Prevalence., Bovine cysticercosis., Ikom abattoir.
Soil microbial activities and its relationship with soil chemical properties under selected soil management systems
Authors: Oyedele A. O. , Uthman A.C.O. , Alemeru M.S. , Denton O.A , Fademi I.O.
Published: October 2017

Most studies in agricultural soil management systems have focused on soil physico-chemical parameters with less on the soil microbial attributes and activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the microbial activities of soils under selected soil management systems. A total of 75 soil samples were collected in each of year 2012 and 2015 from three fields having different management systems. The fields assessed are organically managed Soils (OMS), Inorganically Managed Soils (IMS) and an Uncultivated Land having grass coverage (ULS). Soil Microbial Respiration (SMR), Microbial Biomass Carbon (MBC), Microbial Biomass Nitrogen (MBN) and Microbial Biomass Phosphorus (MBP) were analyzed. Soil chemical properties were also analyzed using standard procedures. The results showed a substantial difference in the microbial activities, in terms of soil management in both years. Soil microbial activities were highest in OMS as observed in SMR (11.34 μgCO2-Cg-1h-1), MBC (347.9 μgCg-1), MBN (32.84 μgNg-1) and MBP (15.35 μgPg-1), while IMS had the lowest microbial activities of SMR (4.56 μgCO2-Cg-1h-1), MBC (144. 2 μgCg-1), MBN (12.39 μgCg-1) and MBP (6.60 μgCg-1) in both years. Between 2012 and 2015, MBC which is one of the key indicators of soil quality and thus sustainable soil management, showed an increase of 61.4%, 32.5% and 42.2% in OMS, IMS and ULS respectively. The results suggest that soil management systems which employ the use of organic inputs may be a more efficient means of improving soil microbial activities and soil fertility.Keywords: Microbial activity; soil management; chemical, organic; inorganic
Implementación de tutorías académicas en línea en una asignatura básica del grado en veterinaria
Authors: Gutiérrez Martín César-Bernardo , García Iglesias María-José , Pérez Martínez Claudia , Sahagún Prieto Ana-María , Martínez Martínez Sonia , Díez Láiz Raquel , López Cadenas Cristina , Rodríguez Lago José-Manuel , Fernández Martínez Nélida , Sierra Vega Matilde , García Viéitez Juan-José , Rodríguez Ferri Elías-Fernando
Published: October 2017

La  tutoría  es  una  herramienta  útil  en el  proceso  de  enseñanza-aprendizaje universitario, aunque su desarrollo se ve dificultado en las aulas masificadas. Con este estudio se ha pretendido potenciar esta  función  tutorial  en  una  asignatura en  la  que  concurre  esta  circunstancia, con  el  fin  de  mejorar  el  rendimiento académico del alumnado. Para ello, se ha implementado un programa de tutorías en línea en la asignatura de “Microbiología e Inmunología” del Grado en Veterinaria de la Universidad de León, mediante la plataforma virtual Moodle. Cuarenta estudiantes se incorporaron voluntariamente (25% de la matrícula) al estudio, en menos de un día. Se elaboraron tres cuestionarios de quince preguntas  sobre  la  materia  impartida, con  el  objetivo  de  fomentar  el  trabajo del estudiante. Finalizado el periodo de resolución  establecido,  los  estudiantes obtenían automáticamente la calificación y las respuestas correctas. Posteriormente, se habilitaban tres días para aclarar dudas mediante  correo  electrónico.  Además, se realizaron encuestas para conocer el grado  de  satisfacción  de  los  alumnos. El  porcentaje  de  estudiantes  tutelados (95,2%) que se presentó al examen final fue significativamente mayor que en los no tutelados (74,8%), hecho que también se observó en la proporción de aprobados (60,0 vs. 43,1%). La calificación numérica fue mayor entre los participantes, duplicando igualmente  el  porcentaje  de  los  que obtuvieron la calificación de “sobresaliente” (2,7 vs. 1,1%). Además, el 87,5% de los participantes se mostró satisfecho con esta metodología docente. A partir de estos resultados se puede concluir que las tutorías en línea constituyen una herramienta útil que facilita el seguimiento de los alumnos, mejora  su  rendimiento  académico  y aumenta su motivación, recomendándose su aplicación en asignaturas con un elevado número de alumnos.
Collaboration challenges in systematic reviews: a survey of health sciences librarians
Authors: Nicholson Joey , McCrillis Aileen , Williams Jeff D.
Published: October 2017

Objective: While many librarians have been asked to participate in systematic reviews with researchers, often these researchers are not familiar with the systematic review process or the appropriate role for librarians. The purpose of this study was to identify the challenges and barriers that librarians face when collaborating on systematic reviews. To take a wider view of the whole process of collaborating on systematic reviews, the authors deliberately focused on interpersonal and methodological issues other than searching itself.Methods: To characterize the biggest challenges that librarians face while collaborating on systematic review projects, we used a web-based survey. The thirteen-item survey included seventeen challenges grouped into two categories: methodological and interpersonal. Participants were required to indicate the frequency and difficulty of the challenges listed. Open-ended questions allowed survey participants to describe challenges not listed in the survey and to describe strategies used to overcome challenges.Results: Of the 17 challenges listed in the survey, 8 were reported as common by over 40% of respondents. These included methodological issues around having too broad or narrow research questions, lacking eligibility criteria, having unclear research questions, and not following established methods. The remaining challenges were interpersonal, including issues around student-led projects and the size of the research team. Of the top 8 most frequent challenges, 5 were also ranked as most difficult to handle. Open-ended responses underscored many of the challenges included in the survey and revealed several additional challenges.Conclusions: These results suggest that the most frequent and challenging issues relate to development of the research question and general communication with team members. Clear protocols for collaboration on systematic reviews, as well as a culture of mentorship, can help librarians prevent and address these challenges. This article has been approved for the Medical Library Association’s Independent Reading Program.
Teaching evidence-based practice principles to prepare health professions students for an interprofessional learning experience
Authors: Aronoff Nell , Stellrecht Elizabeth , Lyons Amy G. , Zafron Michelle L. , Glogowski Maryruth , Grabowski Jeremiah , Ohtake Patricia J.
Published: October 2017

Objective: The research assessed online learning modules designed to teach health professions students evidence-based practice (EBP) principles in an interprofessional context across two institutions.Methods: Students from nine health professions at two institutions were recruited to participate in this pilot project consisting of two online learning modules designed to prepare students for an in-person case-based interprofessional activity. Librarians and an instructional designer created two EBP modules. Students’ competence in EBP was assessed before and after the modules as well as after the in-person activity. Students evaluated the online learning modules and their impact on the students’ learning after the in-person session.Results: A total of 39 students from 8 health professions programs participated in the project. Average quiz scores for online EBP module 1 and module 2 were 83% and 76%, respectively. Following completion of the learning modules, adapted Fresno test of competence in EBP scores increased (p=0.001), indicating that the modules improved EBP skill competence. Student evaluations of the learning modules were positive. Students indicated that they acquired new information skills that contributed to their ability to develop a patient care plan and that they would use these information skills in their future clinical practice.Conclusions: Online EBP learning modules were effective in developing EBP knowledge and skills for health professions students. Using the same modules ensured that students from different health professions at different stages of their professional programs had consistent knowledge and enabled each student to fully engage in an interprofessional evidence-based activity. Student feedback indicated the modules were valued and beneficial.
Advancing the conversation: next steps for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) health sciences librarianship
Authors: Hawkins Blake W. , Morris Martin , Nguyen Tony , Siegel John , Vardell Emily
Published: October 2017

In recent years, librarians in various sectors have been moving forward a conversation on the distinct information needs and information-seeking behavior of our lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) patrons and how well the profession recognizes and meets those needs. Health sciences librarianship has been slower than other areas of the profession in creating an evidence base covering the needs of its LGBTQ patrons, with, until recently, only very limited literature on this subject. LGBTQ health sciences librarianship is now starting to attract new interest, with librarians working together to bring this emerging specialization to the attention of the broader professional community. In this paper, the authors report on a dedicated panel discussion that took place at the 2016 joint annual meeting of the Medical Library Association and Canadian Health Libraries Association/Association des bibliothèques de la santé du Canada in Toronto, Ontario, Canada; discuss subsequent reflections; and highlight the emerging role for health sciences librarians in providing culturally competent services to the LGBTQ population. Recommendations are also provided for establishing a tool kit for LGBTQ health sciences librarianship from which librarians can draw. We conclude by highlighting the importance of critically reflective practice in health sciences librarianship in the context of LGBTQ health information.
"Del milenio a la sostenibilidad": retos y perspectivas de la Agenda 2030 para el desarrollo sostenible
Authors: Sanahuja José Antonio , Tezanos Vázquez Sergio
Published: October 2017

El ascenso de los países emergentes y los cambios en la geografía del desarrollo han supuesto importantes transformaciones en la agenda del desarrollo global. Siguen existiendo importantes asimetrías, y por tanto responsabilidades y capacidades diferenciadas para cada parte, pero es necesario aceptar el carácter cada vez más global y transnacional de la agenda de desarrollo contemporánea, y la necesidad de una acción colectiva más eficaz y legítima para hacerle frente. Este artículo analiza la transición desde los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio (ODM) hasta la nueva Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible y los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS). Para ello se explican las lógicas de orden político y normativo en pugna en el surgimiento de la nueva agenda y la gobernanza del desarrollo global; se identifican los principales cambios de la Agenda 2030 y sus características como normas multilaterales para el desarrollo global; y se analizan las potencialidades y riesgos que plantean los ODS para el sistema de cooperación internacional.
The Effect of Monetary Policy on Interest Rates in Turkey: A Microstructural Analysis
Authors: Afsar Muharrem , Afsar Aslı , Dogan Emrah
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this study it to investigate the impact of monetary policy announcements by Central Bank of the Turkish Republic (CBRT) on market interest rates via micro variables on interest rates. In this context, this study investigated the relationship between monetary policy announcements and market interest rates for 2011:01-2015:10 term using GARCH model. The estimates have indicated that monetary policy announcements have different impacts on interest rate volatilities when distinguished as decisions on increasing, decreasing or fixing interest rates. It was found that contractionary monetary policy announcements have different impacts on market interest rates volatilities analyzed in the present study, while expansionary monetary policy announcements decrease the volatility on market interest rates. On the other hand, the announcements towards fixing the monetary policy increases the interest rate volatility of market interest rates. The results of the analysis also indicated that deposit interest rate weighted up to one year are affected the least by the monetary policy changes.
Combined Ahmed valve and phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation under infliximab in refractory uveitic glaucoma
Authors: Parihar Jitendra K.S. , Kaushik Jaya , Jain Vaibhav K. , Trehan Hemant S. , Mishra Avinash , Baranwal Vinod K.
Published: October 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate the outcome of combined Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) and phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation under infliximab in refractory uveitic glaucoma (UG).

Methods:

In this prospective interventional case series, 26 eyes of 26 patients with refractory UG underwent surgery under intravenous infliximab. The success rate was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) 5 to 21 mm Hg with or without antiglaucoma medications (AGM), without additional glaucoma surgical intervention.

Results:

The mean IOP (37.8 ± 11.86 to 12.2 ± 2.8 mm Hg; p<0.0001) and mean number of AGM (3.4 ± 1.2 to 0.4 ± 0.1; p<0.001) were significantly reduced after surgery at 2 years. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a cumulative probability of success for IOP control of 92% at 2 years of follow-up.

Conclusions:

Combined AGV and phacoemulsification is an effective treatment for controlling refractory UG with complicated cataract under infliximab.
Mitomycin C or interferon as adjuvant therapy to surgery for ocular surface squamous neoplasia: comparative study
Authors: Antonietta Blasi Maria , Maceroni Martina , Grazia Sammarco Maria , Pagliara Monica M.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Traditionally, surgical excision has been the treatment of choice for ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN). Recurrences after surgery are high. To reduce the risk of recurrence, adjuvant therapies have been increasingly used.

Purpose:

We compared recurrences and complications of 3 forms of treatment for OSSN: surgical excision (group A), surgical excision plus adjuvant topical mitomycin C (MMC) (group B), and surgical excision plus subconjunctival interferon-α-2b (IFN-α-2b) (group C).

Methods:

A retrospective comparative study was conducted between January 2006 and March 2016 at the Ocular Oncology Service of the Catholic University of Rome. Seventy-nine patients with a confirmed histological diagnosis of OSSN were included: 43 were treated with surgical excision (group A), 16 underwent surgical excision plus topical MMC (group B), and 20 underwent surgical excision plus adjuvant subconjunctival IFN-α-2b (group C).

Results:

The recurrences were different in the 3 groups. Thirty-one recurrences (72%) were seen in group A, 5 (31%) were found in group B, and 3 (15%) were seen in group C. Eight (50%) patients who received MMC 0.02% complained of ocular discomfort, 10 (62.5%) presented conjunctival hyperemia, while conjunctival chemosis and corneal epitheliopathy were noticed in 2 (13%) and 2 (13%) patients, respectively. All patients treated with subconjunctival IFN-α-2b reported flu-like symptoms. Two patients (10%) complained of ocular discomfort.

Conclusions:

Our study revealed that OSSN is not always manageable with simple excision. Adjuvant chemotherapy is strongly advisable after surgery to reduce recurrences. Interferon injections and MMC drops are effective in preventing recurrences and should be administered after surgery.
Internal limiting membrane flap transposition for surgical repair of macular holes in primary surgery and in persistent macular holes
Authors: Leisser Christoph , Hirnschall Nino , Döller Birgit , Varsits Ralph , Ullrich Marlies , Kefer Katharina , Findl Oliver
Published: October 2017

Purpose:

Classical or temporal internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap transposition with air or gas tamponade are current trends with the potential to improve surgical results, especially in cases with large macular holes.

Methods:

A prospective case series included patients with idiopathic macular holes or persistent macular holes after 23-G pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and ILM peeling with gas tamponade. In all patients, 23-G PPV and ILM peeling with ILM flap transposition with gas tamponade and postoperative face-down position was performed.

Results:

In 7 of 9 eyes, temporal ILM flap transposition combined with pedicle ILM flap could be successfully performed and macular holes were closed in all eyes after surgery. The remaining 2 eyes were converted to pedicle ILM flap transposition with macular hole closure after surgery. Three eyes were scheduled as pedicle ILM flap transposition due to previous ILM peeling. In 2 of these eyes, the macular hole could be closed with pedicle ILM flap transposition. In 3 eyes, free ILM flap transposition was performed and in 2 of these eyes macular hole could be closed after surgery, whereas in 1 eye a second surgery, performed as pedicle ILM flap transposition, was performed and led to successful macular hole closure.

Conclusions:

Use of ILM flaps in surgical repair of macular hole surgery is a new option of treatment with excellent results independent of the diameter of macular holes. For patients with persistent macular holes, pedicle ILM flap transposition or free ILM flap transposition are surgical options.
Comparison of inverted flap and subretinal aspiration technique in full-thickness macular hole surgery: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Iovino Claudio , Caminiti Giulia , Miccoli Mario , Nasini Francesco , Casini Giamberto , Peiretti Enrico
Published: October 2017

Purpose:

To compare the inverted flap and the subretinal aspiration technique for full-thickness macular hole (FTMH) surgery.

Methods:

Forty consecutive eyes with a stage IV FTMH were randomly assigned into 2 treatment groups. After core vitrectomy and perimacular internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling, in group A, the subretinal remnant macular fluid was aspirated with a 41-G cannula after the air-fluid exchange procedure, while in group B, the technique of an inverted ILM flap was completed. Differences in postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and occurrence of intraoperative or postoperative complications between the 2 groups were evaluated.

Results:

All FTMHs were closed after the first surgery with no intraoperative or postoperative complications. In group A, 16 patients (80%) showed improvement of BCVA and 4 (20%) showed stabilization. In group B, 12 patients (60%) had improved BCVA, while 6 (30%) remained stable and 2 (10%) worsened. Postoperative BCVA for group A was significantly better than for group B (p = 0.022).

Conclusions:

The surgical techniques had similar rates of closure of FTMH, although BCVA outcomes were significantly better in the subretinal aspiration group.
Clinical and functional outcomes after augmented hip abductor tendon repair
Authors: Ebert Jay R. , Bucher Thomas A. , Mullan Conor J. , Janes Gregory C.
Published: October 2017

Introduction:

Hip abductor tendon (HAT) tearing is commonly implicated in greater trochanteric pain syndrome. Surgical studies are often reported in small cohorts and with limited information on functional improvement. This study reports the clinical and functional outcomes after HAT repair.

Methods:

112 patients with symptomatic HAT tears, diagnosed via magnetic resonance imaging, underwent open bursectomy, V-Y lengthening of the iliotibial band, debridement of the diseased tendon, decortication of the trochanteric foot-plate and reattachment of the tendon with suture anchors, augmented with a LARS ligament through a trans-osseous tunnel. Patients were evaluated pre-surgery and at 3, 6 and 12 months post-surgery using the Harris (HHS) and Oxford (OHS) Hip Scores, SF-12, hip range of motion, 6-minute walk and 30-second single leg stance tests. Maximal isometric hip abduction strength (HAS) was assessed and limb symmetry indices (LSIs) were calculated between the operated and non-operated limbs. Patient satisfaction and perceived global rating of change (GRC) was evaluated. Analysis of variance evaluated improvement over time.

Results:

There was a significant improvement (p<0.05) in all clinical and functional measures. HAS significantly improved over time (p<0.002) and all LSIs were >85% at 12 months. At 12 months, a mean GRC score of 3.5 (range -1 to 5) was reported, while 96% of patients were satisfied with their surgical outcome. There was a 2.7% (n = 3) failure rate at 12 months.

Conclusions:

HAT reconstruction, augmented with a synthetic ligament, demonstrated significantly improved clinical and functional outcomes, high levels of patient satisfaction and a low failure rate to 12 months post-surgery.
Analysis of mandibular changes using panoramic-based indices in patients with chronic renal failure
Authors: Secgin Cansu K. , Kulah Cemal K. , Gulsahi Ayşe
Published: October 2017

Introduction:

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is a progressive disease affecting many systems and causing dental and periodontal problems, in particular a decrease or loss in the amount of cortical bone that is visible on radiographs. Panoramic radiography is useful for determining these changes. The aim of this study was to evaluate cortical parts of the mandible using panoramic-based indices in patients with CRF.

Methods:

70 subjects with CRF were included in the study. The measurements of panoramic indices were made according to the visibility (mandibular cortical index, MCI) and thickness (mental index, MI) of the inferior cortex of the mandible. Then, these indices, obtained from 70 healthy controls of the same age and gender, were assessed and the results were compared. The effects of dental status and hemodialysis duration on MCI and MI were also investigated.

Results:

The frequency of an eroded cortex was significantly elevated in patients with CRF (p<0.05). The mean MI was lower in patients with CRF than in healthy subjects (5.53 ± 1.62 and 5.73 ± 1.31 mm, respectively), but the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). No correlation was found between hemodialysis duration and mandibular indices (p>0.05). Dental status was not associated with mandibular indices (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

These results suggest that MCI might be a useful radiographic parameter for evaluating changes occurring in the cortical parts of the mandible in CRF patients. Clinicians should be aware of these changes while planning invasive dental treatments in CRF patients.
The importance of hCG in human endometrial adenocarcinoma and breast cancer
Authors: Kölbl Alexandra C. , Schlenk Kristina , Behrendt Nils , Andergassen Ulrich
Published: October 2017

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a peptide hormone which plays an important role during pregnancy. But its impact is not limited to pregnancy; it also influences tumor formation and metastatic outgrowth, especially in endometrial adenocarcinoma and breast cancer. This review summarizes what has been written in the literature about the role of hCG as a tumor marker in these 2 gynecological malignancies and also about the signal transduction pathways in which hCG is involved. HCG can, on the one hand, be a marker for the progression of a malignant disease, and on the other hand, it may be a point for therapeutical intervention, so further research into this molecule would be very much worthwhile.
Peri-prostatovesicular smooth muscle tumors of undetermined malignant potential: a case report
Authors: Masciovecchio Stefano , Di Pasquale Alfonso B. , Ranieri Guido , Romano Gianfranco , Colozzi Sara , Cipolloni Gianluca , Coletti Gino , Calvisi Giuseppe , Di Clemente Luigi
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Smooth muscle tumors of undetermined malignant potential (STUMPs) are atypical smooth muscle tumors, most of which derived from uterine tissue. STUMPs of male genitourinary system and of the male pelvic organs are uncommon.

Case description

In this report, we describe the first case of peri-prostatovesicular STUMP that was treated with laparoscopic excision, in a young asymptomatic man.

Conclusions

In most cases, the definitive diagnosis can be made only after surgical resection and accurate histological examination. The usefulness of adjuvant chemotherapy remains unclear, and a standardized follow-up protocol has not been described.
Retrato de Rubén Darío y Retrato de Alfonso Cortez
Authors: Martínez Julio
Published: October 2017

Captar el carácter, el alma si es posible, el estado de ánimo de un poeta, un niño o cualquier otro personaje, ha sido desde siempre una de mis grandes pasiones, abordados con diversas técnicas, tales como óleo, acrílico, lápiz carbón o carboncillo. Es para mí toda una devoción. Hasta hoy he elaborado siete retratos del Príncipe de las Letras Castellanas Rubén Darío, siendo el primero, a los 17 años, recién llegado a la Escuela Nacional de Bellas Arte en 1978. Cuatro de ellos con técnica óleo sobre tela, uno con lápiz carbón, uno con carboncillo y uno con lápiz grafito y papel de acuarela como soporte.La vida de nuestro gran poeta Alfonso Cortez, por todos conocida, conmovió mi ser desde mi adolescencia. Apasionante y dolorosa, la vida y obra del panida es inspiradora para otros poetas e intelectuales latinoamericanos y hoy, me llevó a realizar este retrato con técnica lápiz grafito sobre papel de acuarela. Muy pocas veces ha sido aprovechada la imagen o el rostro de Alfonso Cortez y esa fue también una gran motivación. Julio MartínezArtista plástico nicaragüenseManagua 12 de julio de 2017
AN APPLICATION OF SCREW THEORY FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF SINGULARITIES IN A NOVEL RECONFIGURABLE PARALLEL ROBOT
Authors: Sanchez-Alonso R.E.
Published: October 2017

This paper reports the application of the screw theory as a tool for the determination of the singular configurations of a reconfigurable parallel robot composed of two parallel sub-manipulators. The Jacobian matrices of the robot, key elements for the identification of singularities, are easily determined when the input-output equation of velocity of the robot is obtained by the application of some screw theory basic operations. Through this application, the inverse, direct and combined singularities are clearly identified, and their graphical representations can be obtained almost intuitively.
DESIGN OF A PACKED-BED ABSORPTION COLUMN CONSIDERING FOUR PACKING TYPES AND APPLYING MATLAB
Authors: Pérez Sánchez A. , Pérez Sánchez E. J. , Segura Silva R.
Published: October 2017

In the present work, a packed bed absorption column is designed to recover certain amounts of ethanol contained in a gaseous stream. Four packing types (50-mm metal Hiflow® rings, 50-mm ceramic Pall® rings, 50-mm metal Top Pak® rings and 25-mm metal VSP® rings) are considered in order to select the most appropriate one in terms of column dimensions, pressure drop and mass-transfer results. Several design parameters were determined including column diameter (D), packing height (Z), overall mass-transfer coefficient (Km) and gas pressure drop (P/Z), as well as the overall number of gas-phase transfer units (NtOG), overall height of a gas-phase transfer unit (HtOG) and the effective surface area of packing (ah). The most adequate packing to use for this absorption system constitutes the 25-mm metal VSP® rings, since it provided the greatest values of Km (0.325 kmol/m3.s), and ah (169.57 m-1), as well as the lowest values of both Z (0.6 m) and HtOG (0.145 m), meaning that it will supply the higher mass-transfer conditions with the lowest column dimensions. The influence of both gas mixture (QG) and solvent (mL) feed flowrates on D, Z, Km, P/Z, NtOG and HtOG was also evaluated for the four packing considered. The design methodology was solved using computing software MATLAB® version 7.8.0.347 (R2009a) (Math Works, 2009), and also Microsoft Excel®.D
Efectos psicosociales de la violencia intrafamiliar en adolescentes
Authors: Ordoñez Palacios Lineke Ramona , Rivas Peralta Erick Yodeman , Rizo Escorcia Maryam Tatiana , Solís Zúniga Franklin J.
Published: October 2017

El presente artículo resume una investigación de carácter cualitativa, realizada con adolescentes víctimas de violencia intrafamiliar, atendidas en el Centro Nicaragüense de Derechos Humanos (CENIDH). La investigación se llevó a cabo en el Barrio la Unión ubicado en el distrito tres de la ciudad de Estelí, durante el periodo septiembre a noviembre del año 2012. Con ella se pretendía valorar los efectos psicosociales de la violencia intrafamiliar en adolescentes víctimas. Esta se realizó a partir de un diseño cualitativo desde la perspectiva fenomenológica, con la aplicación de la metodología del estudio de casos. Las técnicas aplicadas para la recolección de la información fueron: la entrevista semi-estructurada y el análisis documental. La información obtenida con las técnicas aplicadas fue analizada en función de los objetivos formulados y según su naturaleza cualitativa. Los resultados más relevantes indican que las vivencias de violencia intrafamiliar han afectado severamente el desarrollo psicosocial de las adolescentes. Entre las afectaciones más notables se encuentran: traumas psicológicos, aislamiento familiar, abandono del hogar, privación al derecho de crecer con sus padres y problemas de autoestima que afectan su autoimagen por la desviación de la conducta normal de un hogar. Las adolescentes sienten que no valen nada, que no son dignas de ser apreciadas y amadas, no se consideran capaces de hacer lo que se les pide en la escuela y sienten que no son buenas en nada de lo que intentan
Malaria cerebral en una paciente embarazada
Authors: Mendieta Palacios Carlos , Narváez Rojas Alexis
Published: October 2017

El manejo de la malaria es complejo por múltiples factores que inciden sobre la enfermedad siendo uno de los principales el hecho que se presenta en áreas de difícil acceso, dentro de las formas de malaria la más grave es la cerebral y no se había reportado ningún caso en los últimos diez años, por lo que se presenta el siguiente reporte de caso descriptivo. La zona de Waspán, caracterizada por ser una zona de poca accesibilidad, la malaria por P. falciparum es prevalente y puede terminar en un desenlace fatal. Se encontró una paciente embarazada sin historia de enfermedad cerebral pasada, ni de hipertensión arterial, no diabética quien presento 3 convulsiones tónico clónicas con 10 minutos de intervalo sin relajación de esfínter, , con presión arterial media de 106mmHg, con examen general de orina con proteinuria negativa se descarta dicha posibilidad, con una gota gruesa con reporte de +++ para P. falciparum, dichas convulsiones cesaron luego de la administración de quinina, se le realiza una cesa rea por un hematoma placentario del 2%, el bebé muere a las 2 horas del posquirúrgico. La malaria es una amenaza para una paciente embarazada y más aún por P. falciparum, por lo que en zonas endémicas debe haber una vigilancia estricta en aras de disminuir la mortalidad del embrión y el feto durante el embarazo.
Editorial
Authors: Carballo Palma Anielka Patricia
Published: October 2017

La Jornada Universitaria de Desarrollo Científico de la UNAN-Managua se concibe como un evento académico/estudiantil institucionalizado a partir de 1981.  Este evento es coordinado por la Dirección de Investigación de Grado de la UNAN-Managua por medio de la Comisión de Investigación de cada facultad.
Actitudes y prácticas respecto al uso de las redes sociales por parte de estudiantes de Educación Secundaria
Authors: Pérez Falcón Melissa Yudelka , Solís Zúniga Franklin
Published: October 2017

La investigación está orientada al uso de las redes sociales por parte de los estudiantes de décimo año C del Instituto Nacional Reino de Suecia. El objetivo era promover, conjuntamente con la comunidad educativa,  un cambio de actitud y prácticas respecto al uso de las redes sociales en los estudiantes Este estudio se realizó a partir de un enfoque cualitativo, desde la perspectiva de Investigación Acción Participativa, perteneciente al paradigma sociocrítico. Las técnicas utilizadas para la recolección de datos fueron: la encuesta, entrevistas a profundidad y grupo focal. La información obtenida se analizó en función de los objetivos formulados y según su naturaleza cualitativa.  Los resultados del diagnóstico reflejaron que los han tenido problemas en las redes sociales debido al uso irresponsable de estas, que han sido víctimas de ciberbullying y que las consecuencias de esto han transcendido de lo virtual a lo personal.  Los docentes, respecto a este problema, expresaron que el rendimiento académico se ve afectado al dedicar mucho tiempo a las redes sociales y sugirieron actividades para mejorar el uso de las redes sociales.  Como resultado principal de la investigación se logró promover un cambio de actitudes y prácticas respecto al uso de las redes sociales a partir de la experiencias vividas, así como la proposición de soluciones por parte de los estudiantes para mejorar el uso de las redes sociales, la creación de un página educativa en la red social facebook haciendo énfasis en el ciberbullying y el involucramiento de los docentes en cada una de las actividades. Por tal motivo se puede decir que se comprobó la hipótesis de acción planteada.
Factores asociados a la baja calidad del esperma
Authors: Balitán Amoretty Carlos Bryan , Blanco Knotek Sabina Antea , Cabrera Alejandro , Hernández Yeral Alexander , González Moncada Clara , Dinarte Deybis
Published: October 2017

La calidad espermática en jóvenes está afectada por diversos factores.  Este estudio es de carácter descriptivo, transversal. Con un universo de 412 alumnos de la carrera de Medicina de área Básica de la UNAN-Managua.  La muestra, no probabilística por  conveniencia, fue de 40 estudiantes entre 18-30 años.  El instrumento que se aplicó fue un cuestionario con las variables de interés.  El esperma se recolectó y analizó bajo parámetros de la OMS.  El examen  físico, químico y microscópico se reportaron alterados en 100% de las muestras.  El 100% de las muestras presentaron alteraciones en el pH y 75% alteraciones microscópicas. 20% de los estudiantes refirieron hábitos tóxicos relacionándose con alteraciones en todos parámetros.  El 75% se expuso a  factores ambientales con reporte del examen físico seminal alterado en el 60%, mientras que el químico en el 72.5% y el microscópico en el 60%; de este un 10% se observó  la morfología alterada, 12,5% con motilidad menor a 70%, vitalidad inferior a 80%.  En los estudiantes con dieta variada y ejercicio regular se reportó mejor calidad seminal en los parámetros evaluados.  Los fármacos alteraron 40% de los parámetros  evaluados.  Los resultados de la investigación proporcionan datos epidemiológicos inexistentes en Nicaragua.  Se recomienda cambiar el estilo de vida para mejorar la salud y vida sexual.  Los factores asociados a la baja calidad seminal en los jóvenes de este estudio son  prevenibles.
Construcción y habilitación de la “Bebeteca modelo en Nicaragua” adjunta a la Biblioteca Nacional Rubén Darío
Authors: Torres Isolda María , Salas Olivares Karla Vanesa , Romero Aragón Gloria Trinidad , Pérez Cordero Mey Ling
Published: October 2017

La presente  “Propuesta de construcción y habilitación de una Bebeteca modelo en Nicaragua”, pretende exponer  la necesidad de la creación y habilitación de una unidad de información especializada en la atención de los más pequeños, se habla de la población en la primera infancia que incluye a niños de 0 – 6 años de vida, lugar donde puedan interactuar con los libros para desarrollar  y estimular el  hábito lector a través de diversas actividades, logrando un desarrollo integral en nuestra niñez.  El edificio será una construcción adecuada, que permita vincular a los bebés, los padres con la lectura, que este sea un lugar de fácil acceso, confortable, cómodos.  El Proyecto se iniciará en el mes de  mayo 2015, finalizando en el mes de  mayo 2020. Estará ubicado en el Distrito II de Managua, en el Barrio Rubén Darío.  En la formulación del proyecto se utilizó la metodología del Marco Lógico, para definir el problema, analizar las causas, consecuencias y definir las alternativas de solución. En la definición del problema se tomó en cuenta a todos los involucrados (directos e indirectos) abordándolos a través de encuesta. También se hizo un estudio de mercado, consultando la opinión de los potenciales usuarios a través de una encuesta; ambas muestras se calcularon no probabilísticamente, con un muestreo a conveniencia.  Se puede concluir que para mejorar el nivel lector en la población es necesario invertir recursos y tiempo para el fomento de este hábito desde la primera infancia, para lograr que los niños vean la lectura como una necesidad inherente a su desarrollo integral.
Pistas para la construcción de problemas en investigación cualitativa
Authors: López García Ramón Ignacio
Published: October 2017

Investigar es un arte, no importa el enfoque en el que nos inscribamos para realizarlo. Sin embargo, debemos reconocer que existen prejuicios personales, que podrían obstaculizar nuestro desempeño si no tomamos medidas para desplegar nuestras capacidades. El objetivo de este escrito es invitar a la reflexión, y aclarar que construir problemas de investigación cualitativa, es una oportunidad para el aprendizaje, y no un problema en su connotación negativa. La metodología utilizada para concluir estas ideas, está centrada en la reflexión personal, la experiencia vivida como docente en asignaturas de investigación, y la crítica a los planteamientos de autores que con sus textos, pueden crear prejuicios a la comunidad investigativa sin que lo tengan premeditado.