bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moxifloxacin-Induced Visual Hallucinations, Alterations in Mood and Behavior, and Hyperglycemia
Authors: Uz Burak
Published: March 2019

Visual hallucinations are sensory perceptions that occur without external stimuli. Moxifloxacin-induced visual hallucinations are very rarely reported (<0.1%). We describe a 66-year-old woman, without any known neuropsychiatric disorder or illicit drug abuse, who experienced complex visual hallucinations, mood, and behavioral alterations secondary to peroral 1 dose of moxifloxacin treatment that persisted for approximately 36 hours. In addition, a sudden increase in her blood glucose level was noted which also improved a few days after discontinuation of moxifloxacin treatment. Although very rare, it should be kept in mind that moxifloxacin may coincidentally induce neuropsychiatric adverse effects and hyperglycemia. Clinicians should be alert to recognize such uncommon offending adverse drug reactions.
A systems engineering approach to variable intakes for civil aviation
Authors: Kazula Stefan , Höschler Klaus
Published: March 2019

A systems engineering approach to develop variable nacelle intakes for aero engines in civil aviation is presented. The goal of this methodical approach is to find solutions to design problems that can be successfully utilised in aviation without further effort during the certification. By using variable intakes, aircraft and aero engine manufacturers can fulfil their customers’ needs for safe, efficient and fast travelling. Therefore, a system shall be installed which is able to modify the nacelle intake contour between two extrema. On the one hand, a sharp thin contour, which produces low drag and allows to fly faster or more efficiently, is optimal during cruise condition. On the other hand, a round thick intake lip is necessary to avoid flow separations with the potential to cause dangerous events during take-off and climb conditions. The utilised systems engineering approach is introduced. The executed steps and methods used for creating and evaluating concept variants for variable intakes are displayed particularly. Those contain the determination and evaluation of requirements and functions as well as the generation and assessment of concepts. Finally, yet importantly, following tasks are presented.
Flow field behind a complex total pressure distortion screen
Authors: Sivapragasam M
Published: March 2019

The flow field behind a complex total pressure distortion screen is investigated experimentally and numerically. The distortion screen is designed using an established design methodology and fabricated by water-jet cutting technique. The distorted total pressure field behind the screen is quantified by a distortion index parameter, which is evaluated from computations and experiments for several values of inlet Mach number. The root-mean-square error between the target total pressure values and that achieved by the screen design at the aerodynamic interface plane is 4.75%. The evolution of the distorted total pressure field downstream of the screen is presented in detail in terms of radial and circumferential total pressure distributions and their gradients. An alternative interpretation of the distorted total pressure field is made by means of defining a total pressure flux existing behind the screen and expanding it using derivative-moment transformation technique. It is seen that the circumferential vorticity is a major contributing factor to the total pressure flux.
Civility, credibility, and health information: The impact of uncivil comments and source credibility on attitudes about vaccines
Authors: Jennings Freddie J. , Russell Frank M.
Published: March 2019

As individuals turn to social media sites for health information, it is important to understand the factors that influence their perceptions of this information. This study employed an experiment to investigate the impact of social media discussion on perceptions of vaccines. Analysis, using structural equation modeling, revealed that source credibility and the civility of a discussion indirectly influence policy support requiring vaccinations, intention to vaccinate future children, and willingness to engage in discussion about vaccines. This impact is mediated by message elaboration and attitudes of the value of vaccinations. As individuals think about a pro-vaccine message and understand the importance of receiving vaccinations, they are more likely to engage in pro-social vaccination choices.
Near infrared study on the adsorption states of NH3 and NH4+ on hydrated ZSM-5 zeolites
Authors: Takeuchi Masato , Tsukamoto Tatsuya , Kondo Atsushi , Bao Yingtong , Matsuoka Masaya
Published: March 2019

In order to understand the acidity properties of hydrated ZSM-5 zeolites having different SiO2/Al2O3 ratios, the adsorption states of the NH3 and NH4+ species on hydrated ZSM-5 zeolites were concurrently investigated by near infrared spectroscopy. In the case of hydrated H+-type ZSM-5, absorption band due to the H2O molecules directly interacting with the H+ sites (Brønsted acid sites) was observed at 5266 cm−1. When the NH3 molecules were admitted on the hydrated H/ZSM-5, absorption bands due to isolated NH3 and isolated NH4+ were simultaneously observed at 5044 and 4846 cm−1, respectively, although most of the H+ sites were occupied by H2O molecules. As the NH3 adsorption amount increased, almost isolated H2O molecules hardly changed while the NH3 and NH4+ stabilized by the hydrogen bonds shifted to 5000 and 4771 cm−1, respectively. As for the siliceous-type ZSM-5, near infrared absorption due to H2O molecules interacting with the silanol groups was mainly observed at 5285 cm−1. However, since the H2O molecules readily desorbed at r.t. due to the hydrophobic character of the siliceous zeolite surface, the NH3 adsorption behavior was almost the same as the dehydrated sample. In the case of Na+-type ZSM-5, absorption band due to H2O molecules directly interacting with the Na+ sites was observed at 5291 cm−1. When NH3 molecules were adsorbed on the hydrated Na/ZSM-5, absorption band due to the hydrogen-bonded H2O shifted to 5260 cm−1 and absorption band due to the NH3 molecules in the NH3/H2O mixed clusters was simultaneously observed at 5014 cm−1. When the NH3/H2O mixed clusters desorbed from Na/ZSM-5, an absorption band due to NH3 species interacting with the Al3+ sites (Lewis acid sites) was observed at 4957 cm−1 since the neutral Na/ZSM-5 surface might be dealuminated by the basicity of the wet NH3 clusters.
Composing Sexuality in the Midst of Adolescent Cancer
Authors: Estefan Andrew , Moules Nancy J. , Laing Catherine M.
Published: March 2019

A cancer diagnosis heralds the onset of significant life changes. The various experiences of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery from cancer during adolescence and young adulthood are complex and disruptive. Emphasis on treatment and recovery often overshadows other social and developmental imperatives for adolescents and young adults. Acknowledging, exploring, and crafting one’s own sexual identity is a significant milestone achieved during this time, and it is one that is interrupted by the arrival and treatment of cancer. There is value in understanding how adolescents and young adults compose sexuality amid cancer experiences, and how this composition contributes to their ongoing stream of life experiences after recovery. As part of a larger study of sexuality and adolescent cancer, we undertook a narrative inquiry with Anna and Mark, two young adults who experienced cancer during adolescence. Over 14 months, we met with Anna and Mark, drawing on different narrative inquiry approaches to explore their past and ongoing experiences and to build negotiated stories of those experiences. We explored resonant threads between the stories, which help show the depth and complexity of sexuality as it is experienced in the midst of and after cancer. Two resonant threads are discussed: inward and outward looking, and sexuality and survival. The inquiry reveals the richness of self-composition amid competing stories of cancer treatment, disruptions to family and socialization, survivorship, what it means to be a young man or woman in the world, and the sense of a developing sexual self.
A Life in Two Worlds: The Silenced and the Unsilenced
Authors: Borti Adeline
Published: March 2019

This autoethnographic poetic inquiry presents childhood and adulthood experiences of a silenced life that navigated the journey through silence into the world of speech. Using poetry to retell and relive these experiences creates the metaphor and the imagery into my world, thereby offering reflexivity, aestheticism, meaning, and hope. The two poems represent the stages of my life while I carry the reader along my passing years in a chronological manner. I invite the reader to enjoy, reflect, and interpret this poetry bearing in mind the broken shackles of the silenced voice.
Brief Report: Examining the Association Between Classroom Social Network Inclusion and Playground Peer Engagement Among Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Santillan Lupita , Frederick Lindsay , Gilmore Sean , Locke Jill
Published: March 2019

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face barriers when establishing peer connections at school. This aim of this study is to explore how social network inclusion in the classroom is associated with playground peer engagement. Independent observers administered friendship surveys to determine social network inclusion in the classroom and recorded the playground engagement states of 55 children with ASD from 42 general education classrooms in 16 public elementary schools in the northeastern United States. Linear regression models were used to examine associations between social network inclusion and playground engagement. Results indicated an association between social network inclusion and playground engagement. Children who were included to a greater degree in their classrooms’ social network spent more time engaged with peers on the playground. These findings highlight the importance of supporting social interactions in multiple contexts in schools.
Fracture of a polyimide–elastimide posterior chamber intraocular lens following blunt orbital trauma
Authors: Friehmann Asaf , Sharon Tal , Ophir Shira Sheen , Assia Ehud I
Published: March 2019

Purpose:

Fracture of a three-piece polyimide–elastimide intraocular lens at the optic–haptic junction following blunt trauma is a possible complication after cataract surgery. We report a case of an isolated posterior chamber intraocular lens fracture caused by direct ocular blunt trauma.

Case:

A 51-year-old patient underwent blunt orbital trauma caused by a raw chicken egg that was thrown at him, as he was walking. The posterior chamber intraocular lens was found in the anterior chamber, with a broken optic–haptic junction. The intraocular lens was exchanged, followed by iris fixation and pupilloplasty, with satisfactory postoperative anatomical and optical outcomes.

Discussion:

The three-piece polyimide–elastimide intraocular lens was fractured at the optic–haptic junction. Although the fractured intraocular lens surface had a regular appearance, it has been previously reported that the polyimide haptic’s durability is probably inferior to that of polymethylmethacrylate. Therefore, it is highly susceptible to shear stress induced by a blunt trauma.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this is an uncommon report of an implanted posterior chamber polyimide–elastimide intraocular lens fracture following blunt orbital trauma. Intraocular lens exchange and fixation had successful optical and anatomical results.
The typological classification of tourist destinations: The region of Valencia, a case study
Authors: Perles-Ribes José Francisco , Ivars-Baidal Josep Antoni , Ramón-Rodríguez Ana Belén , Vera-Rebollo José Fernando
Published: March 2019

This study establishes a classification of the tourist destinations of the Region of Valencia in Spain. A cluster analysis has been conducted on a wide range of indicators related to the tourism activity of the destinations, which has then been applied a set of 60 coastal destinations and 482 inland municipalities in the region. Spatial reference frameworks are essential for applying and developing tourism planning and promotion policies. The results obtained reveal their sensitivity to the configurations generated by these data analysis techniques, the variables used in the analysis and the group of destinations taken as a reference for the classification. They also confirm the exceptionality of the case of Benidorm and the existence of tourism dynamics and processes that are manifested unequally across the territory. The latest advances within this technique are applied which will improve the robustness of the results.
Association of Life’s Simple 7 with reduced clinically manifest abdominal aortic aneurysm: The ARIC study
Authors: Oyenuga Abayomi O , Folsom Aaron R , Lutsey Pamela L , Tang Weihong
Published: March 2019

To optimize cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association (AHA) has recommended ‘Life’s Simple 7 (LS7)’. We tested the hypothesis that greater adherence to the LS7 cardiovascular risk metric is associated with reduced risk of developing abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). A total of 14,375 black and white participants aged 45–64 years at the baseline visit of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study cohort were included in this analysis. A 14-point summary score for LS7 was calculated, and participants were classified as having poor (0–4), average (5–9), or ideal (10–14) cardiovascular health. We also counted the number of ideal components. Poisson regression was used to calculate incidence rates for AAA, and Cox regression to calculate hazard ratios adjusted for age, race, sex, and socioeconomic status. Over 25 years of follow-up, we identified 545 clinically manifest AAA events. Incident rates per 1000 person-years declined markedly across LS7 categories: 3.4 for the ‘poor’ category, 2.2 for ‘average’, and 0.9 for ‘ideal’. Compared to individuals in the ‘poor’ LS7 category, individuals in the ‘average’ category had a 52% lower AAA risk (95% CI: 37% to 63%) and those in the ‘ideal’ category had an 80% lower risk (95% CI: 72% to 86%). For every additional ideal component, there was a 28% lower risk of AAA (95% CI: 23% to 33%). Greater adherence to the AHA’s LS7 cardiovascular risk metric is associated with a reduced risk of clinically manifest AAA. These findings support the recommendation to follow LS7 for primary prevention of AAA.
Aeroacoustic resonance and self-excitation in screeching and impinging supersonic jets – A review
Authors: Edgington-Mitchell Daniel
Published: March 2019

Supersonic jets, particularly shock-containing jets, often exhibit high-intensity, discrete-frequency acoustic tones. These tones are the signature of an aeroacoustic resonance loop established by the flow. This paper considers two of the classical forms of supersonic jet resonance: screech in shock-containing free jets and tones generated by the impingement of a jet against a surface. The first half of the paper provides a historical perspective on research into both forms of resonance, ranging from the seminal works of Alan Powell to recent contributions from high-fidelity numerical simulation, experiment, and stability theory. The second half of the paper provides a critical assessment of current understanding around the four processes that characterize jet resonance: a downstream propagation of energy, an acoustic generation mechanism, an upstream propagation of energy, and a receptivity mechanism.
Participatory action research to enhance the collective involvement of residents in elderly care: About power, dialogue and understanding
Authors: Woelders Susan , Abma Tineke
Published: March 2019

The collective involvement of patients and clients in health care organizations is valued in our Western society. In practice, giving form to this involvement seems to be a complex process. In this paper we present our learning experiences with a process of enhancing the involvement of older people in a residential care home in the Netherlands, by using a participatory action research approach, called PARTNER. This approach is inspired by responsive evaluation and developed for the context of long-term care. We use concepts of Habermas’ theory to understand what happens when trying to create communicative spaces through dialogue. Our learning history shows that the involvement of residents is not an easy task, because power issues are at stake. System values seem to dominate the lifeworld and expert knowledge seems to be more valued than expressed emotions and narratives of residents. Researchers who use participatory action research must be aware of these issues of power, often hidden in language and discourse. Dialogue can be a vehicle to enhance mutual understanding, when attention is paid to underlying values, assumptions and meanings of all people. Then, the gap between system and lifeworld can be bridged and communicative spaces can be opened up.
Computational Comparison Between a Classic Bifurcated Endograft and a Customized Model With “Dog Bone”–Shaped Limbs
Authors: Georgakarakos Efstratios , Xenakis Antonios , Georgiadis George S.
Published: March 2019

Purpose: To use computational simulations to compare the hemodynamic characteristics of a classic bifurcated stent-graft to an equally long endograft design with “dog bone”–shaped limbs (DB), which have large diameter proximal and distal ends and significant narrowing at the midsection to accommodate aneurysms with an extremely narrow bifurcation. Materials and Methods: A 3-dimensional model was constructed using commercially available validated software. Inlet and outlet diameters were 28 and 14 mm, respectively. The total length of both models was kept constant to 180 mm, but the main body of the DB model was 20 mm shorter than the bifurcated endograft. The iliac limbs of the DB model had a 9-mm stenosis over a 30-mm segmental length in the midsection. Flow was quantified by time-averaged wall shear stress, oscillatory shear index (OSI), and relative residence time (RRT). The displacement forces in newtons (N) and maximum wall shear stress (WSS) in pascals (Pa) were compared during a cardiac cycle at 3 segments (main body, bifurcation, and iliac limbs) of both models with computational fluid dynamics analysis. Results: The DB accommodation was associated with higher forces at the main body (range 3.15–4.9 Ν) compared with the classic configuration (1.56–2.34 N). On the contrary, the forces at the bifurcation (3.81–5.98 vs 3.76–5.54 N) and at the iliac limbs (0.34–0.85 vs 0.49–0.74 N) were comparable for both models. Accordingly, maximum WSS was detected at the iliac sites for both models throughout the cardiac cycle. The highest values were detected at peak systole and equaled 26.6 and 12 Pa for the DB and bifurcated configurations, respectively. The narrow segments in the DB model displayed high stress values but low OSI and very low RRT. Conclusion: The DB accommodation seems to correlate with higher displacement forces at the main body and higher stresses at the iliac limbs. Consequently, regular imaging follow-up of the DB design deems necessary to delineate its mid- and long-term clinical performance.
Dynamic analysis and criterion evaluation on rockburst considering the fractured dissipative energy
Authors: Li Qingwen , Chen Lu , Sui Zhili , Wang Liping , Dong Jianghui
Published: March 2019

As one of the dynamic disasters of deep mining, rockburst significantly affects the safety of underground environment especially at great depth. First, the elastic energy and dissipative energy are deduced to characterize rockburst process separately employing the theoretical analysis and test technique. Then, a series of split-Hopkinson pressure bar system tests are conducted. After calculation, the percentage of fractured dissipative energy occupied in total input dynamic energy is obtained. Subsequently, the dynamic mechanical parameters of rock specimens and dynamic impact factors are fitted. Finally, a three-dimensional model is developed using the mechanical property of the host rock, constitutive model, and in situ geostress. The contours of energy and the damage conditions of host rock are predicted, and the tendentiousness of rockburst is estimated.
Cerebral blood flow and cerebrovascular reactivity correlate with severity of motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Pelizzari Laura , Laganà Maria Marcella , Rossetto Federica , Bergsland Niels , Galli Mirco , Baselli Giuseppe , Clerici Mario , Nemni Raffaello , Baglio Francesca
Published: March 2019

Background:

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is mainly characterized by movement dysfunction. Neurovascular unit (NVU) disruption has been proposed to be involved in the disease, but its role in PD neurodegenerative mechanisms is still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) within the regions belonging to the motor network, in patients with mild to moderate stages of PD.

Methods:

Twenty-eight PD patients (66.6 ± 8.6 years, 22 males, median [interquartile range, IQR] Hoehn & Yahr = 1.5 [1–1.9]) and 32 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) were scanned with arterial spin labeling (ASL) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for CBF assessment. ASL MRI was also acquired in hypercapnic conditions to induce vasodilation and subsequently allow for CVR measurement in a subgroup of 13 PD patients and 13 HCs. Median CBF and CVR were extracted from cortical and subcortical regions belonging to the motor network and compared between PD patients and HCs. In addition, the correlation between these parameters and the severity of PD motor symptoms [quantified with Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale part III (UPDRS III)] was assessed. The false discovery rate (FDR) method was used to correct for multiple comparisons.

Results:

No significant differences in terms of CBF and CVR were found between PD patients and HCs. Positive significant correlations were observed between CBF and UPDRS III within the precentral gyrus, postcentral gyrus, supplementary motor area, striatum, pallidum, thalamus, red nucleus, and substantia nigra (pFDR < 0.05). Conversely, significant negative correlation between CVR and UPDRS III was found in the corpus striatum (pFDR < 0.05).

Conclusion:

CBF and CVR assessment provides information about NVU integrity in an indirect and noninvasive way. Our findings support the hypothesis of NVU involvement at the mild to moderate stages of PD, suggesting that CBF and CVR within the motor network might be used as either diagnostic or prognostic markers for PD.
HPLC-Based Activity Profiling for GABAA Receptor Modulators in Murraya exotica
Authors: Syafni Nova , Moradi-Afrapoli Fahimeh , Danton Ombeline , Wilhelm Anke , Stadler Marco , Hering Steffen , Potterat Olivier , Hamburger Matthias
Published: March 2019

A dichloromethane extract from twigs and leaves of Murraya exotica produced allosteric potentiation of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) induced chloride currents in a microelectrode assay in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing GABA receptors of α1, β2, γ2s subunit composition. The activity was tracked by HPLC-based activity profiling utilizing a zebrafish locomotor activity assay. Osthol (9) was identified as the main active compound. In addition, five other coumarins and four flavonols were identified. Osthol (9) and structurally related coumurrayin (10) were tested in the Xenopus oocyte assay. Compound 9 potentiated GABAA-induced chloride currents by 487 ± 42%, with an EC50 of 46 ± 10 μM, while 10 showed negligible effects on chloride currents. In silico evaluation of physicochemical properties showed that 9 and 10 had properties that are favorable for oral bioavailability and BBB permeability.
Bacilohydrin A, a New Cytotoxic Cyclic Lipopeptide of Surfactins Class Produced by Bacillus sp. SY27F from the Indian Ocean Hydrothermal Vent
Authors: Zhou Hong , He Yu , Tian Yongqi , Cong Bailin , Yang Huanghao
Published: March 2019

Bacilohydrin A, a new cyclic lipopeptide composed of seven mixed D/L-amino acids (L-Ile1—L-Leu2—D-Asp3—L-Val4—L-Leu5—L-Leu6—L-Gln7) and a ( R)-3-hydroxy-12-methyltetradecanoic acid (HMT) residue, was isolated from the crude culture extract of Bacillus sp. SY27F, which was obtained from the Indian Ocean hydrothermal vent. Its planar structure was elucidated by spectroscopic analyses, including 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry (MS), and secondary ion mass spectrometry (MS/MS), whereas its absolute configuration was determined by modified Marfey's analysis. Bacilohydrin A displayed significant cytotoxicities against DU-145, MCF-7 and HepG2 cancer cell lines with IC50 values of 50.3-175.1 nM. Additionally, this is the first time to determine the absolute configuration of a D-aspartic acid residue in surfactin class.
The impact of technical and clinical factors on fecal microbiota transfer outcomes for the treatment of recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections in Germany
Authors: Peri Rosemarie , Aguilar Rebeca Cruz , Tüffers Kester , Erhardt Andreas , Link Alexander , Ehlermann Philipp , Angeli Wolfgang , Frank Thorsten , Storr Martin , Glück Thomas , Sturm Andreas , Rosien Ulrich , Tacke Frank , Bachmann Oliver , Solbach Philipp , Stallmach Andreas , Goeser Felix , Vehreschild Maria JGT ,   for the German Clinical Microbiome Study Group (GCMSG)
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Fecal microbiota transfer (FMT) is highly effective in the treatment and prevention of recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection (rCDI) with cure rates of about 80% after a single treatment. Nevertheless, the reasons for failure in the remaining 20% remain largely elusive. The aim of the present study was to investigate different potential clinical predictors of response to FMT in Germany.

Methods

Information was extracted from the MicroTrans Registry (NCT02681068), a retrospective observational multicenter study, collecting data from patients undergoing FMT for recurrent or refractory CDI in Germany. We performed binary logistic regression with the following covariates: age, gender, ribotype 027, Eastern Co‐operative Oncology Group score, immunosuppression, preparation for FMT by use of proton pump inhibitor, antimotility agents and bowel lavage, previous recurrences, severity of CDI, antibiotic induction treatment, fresh or frozen FMT preparation, and route of application.

Results

Treatment response was achieved in 191/240 evaluable cases (79.6%) at day 30 (D30) post FMT and 78.1% at day 90 (D90) post FMT. Assessment of clinical predictors for FMT failure by forward and confirmatory backward‐stepwise regression analysis yielded higher age as an independent predictor of FMT failure (p = 0.001; OR 1.060; 95%CI 1.025–1.097).

Conclusion

FMT in Germany is associated with high cure rates at D30 and D90. No specific pre‐treatment, preparation or application strategy had an impact on FMT success. Only higher age was identified as an independent risk factor for treatment failure. Based on these and external findings, future studies should focus on the assessment of microbiota and microbiota‐associated metabolites as factors determining FMT success.
Hepatitis C virus therapy in advanced liver disease: Outcomes and challenges
Authors: Ekpanyapong Sirina , Reddy K Rajender
Published: March 2019

While for many years investigators had worked on highly effective direct‐acting antiviral agent (DAA) therapy, we are now encountering challenges on the appropriate timing of DAA therapy in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Improvement in hepatic function and quality of life can be achieved following successful therapy but not in all patients. Predictors of improvement or failure to improve have been noted but these are currently not robust enough to ubiquitously apply them to clinical practice. The lowest probability of improvement in hepatic function and avoidance of Model for End‐stage Liver Disease (MELD) “purgatory” appears to be in those with MELD >20 while the more likely scenario of improvements is in those with MELD <15. Ideally, patients with a MELD score >20 should be transplanted first and treated for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection after liver transplantation (LT). Those with MELD score <15 should be considered readily for treatment while in those with MELD of 15–20, treatment has to be individualized with full discussion of the pros and cons of treating them pre‐ or post‐LT. However, it is to be appreciated that the majority of patients with decompensated cirrhosis across the world may not be eligible for liver transplant or may not have access to LT; thus, these patients should be considered for HCV therapy with the hope and expectation that they still gain variable degrees of benefit from successful DAA therapy.
Investigation of different stimulation patterns with doublet pulses to reduce muscle fatigue
Authors: Ruslee Ruslinda , Miller Jennifer , Gollee Henrik
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Functional electrical stimulation is a common technique used in the rehabilitation of individuals with a spinal cord injury to produce functional movement of paralysed muscles. However, it is often associated with rapid muscle fatigue which limits its applications. Methods: The objective of this study is to investigate the effects on the onset of fatigue of different multi-electrode patterns of stimulation via multiple pairs of electrodes using doublet pulses: Synchronous stimulation is compared to asynchronous stimulation patterns which are activated sequentially (AsynS) or randomly (AsynR), mimicking voluntary muscle activation by targeting different motor units. We investigated these three different approaches by applying stimulation to the gastrocnemius muscle repeatedly for 10 min (300 ms stimulation followed by 700 ms of no-stimulation) with 40 Hz effective frequency for all protocols and doublet pulses with an inter-pulse-interval of 6 ms. Eleven able-bodied volunteers (28 ± 3 years old) participated in this study. Ultrasound videos were recorded during stimulation to allow evaluation of changes in muscle morphology. The main fatigue indicators we focused on were the normalised fatigue index, fatigue time interval and pre-post twitch–tetanus ratio. Results: The results demonstrate that asynchronous stimulation with doublet pulses gives a higher normalised fatigue index (0.80 ± 0.08 and 0.87 ± 0.08) for AsynS and AsynR, respectively, than synchronous stimulation (0.62 ± 0.06). Furthermore, a longer fatigue time interval for AsynS (302.2 ± 230.9 s) and AsynR (384.4 ± 279.0 s) compared to synchronous stimulation (68.0 ± 30.5 s) indicates that fatigue occurs later during asynchronous stimulation; however, this was only found to be statistically significant for one of two methods used to calculate the group mean. Although no significant difference was found in pre-post twitch–tetanus ratio, there was a trend towards these effects. Conclusion: In this study, we proposed an asynchronous stimulation pattern for the application of functional electrical stimulation and investigated its suitability for reducing muscle fatigue compared to previous methods. The results show that asynchronous multi-electrode stimulation patterns with doublet pulses may improve fatigue resistance in functional electrical stimulation applications in some conditions.
Assessing Vaccine Contraindications Through the Use of the Immunization Action Coalition Screening Checklist
Authors: Edinboro Marcelle
Published: March 2019

Immunization action coalition (IAC) provides a checklist that occupational health nurses use to screen for vaccine contraindications to identify and prevent possible adverse effects.
Bridge-Enhanced Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair: Two-Year Results of a First-in-Human Study
Authors: Murray Martha M. , Kalish Leslie A. , Fleming Braden C. ,   BEAR Trial Team, Flutie Brett , Freiberger Christina , Henderson Rachael N. , Perrone Gabriel S. , Thurber Laura G. , Proffen Benedikt L. , Ecklund Kirsten , Kramer Dennis E. , Yen Yi-Meng , Micheli Lyle J.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Bridge-enhanced anterior cruciate ligament repair (BEAR) combines suture repair of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) with a specific extracellular matrix scaffold (the BEAR scaffold) that is placed in the gap between the torn ends of the ACL to facilitate ligament healing.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to report the 12- and 24-month outcomes of patients who underwent the BEAR procedure compared with a nonrandomized concurrent control group who underwent ACL reconstruction (ACLR) with an autograft. We hypothesized that the BEAR group would have physical examination findings, patient-reported outcomes, and adverse events that were similar to those of the ACLR group.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Ten patients underwent BEAR, and 10 underwent ACLR with a 4-stranded hamstring autograft. At 24 months, 9 of the 10 BEAR patients and 7 of the 10 ACLR patients completed a study visit. Outcomes reported included International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective and objective results, knee anteroposterior (AP) laxity findings via an arthrometer, and functional outcomes.

Results:

There were no graft or repair failures in the first 24 months after surgery. The IKDC subjective scores in both groups improved significantly from baseline ( P < .0001) at 12 and 24 months, to 84.6 ± 17.2 in the ACLR group and to 91.7 ± 11.7 in the BEAR group. An IKDC objective grade of A (normal) was found in 44% of patients in the BEAR group and in 29% of patients in the ACLR group at 24 months; no patients in either group had C (abnormal) or D (severely abnormal) grades. Arthrometer testing demonstrated mean side-to-side differences in AP laxity that were similar in the 2 groups at 24 months (BEAR, 1.94 ± 2.08 mm; ACLR, 3.14 ± 2.66 mm). Functional hop testing results were similar in the 2 groups at 12 and 24 months after surgery. Hamstring strength indices were significantly higher in the BEAR group compared with the ACLR group ( P = .0001).

Conclusion:

In this small, first-in-human study, BEAR produced similar outcomes to ACLR with a hamstring autograft. BEAR may result in knee stability and patient-reported outcomes at 2 years sufficient to warrant longer term studies of efficacy in larger groups of patients.
Effect of Oral Contraceptives on Soft Tissue Injury Risk, Soft Tissue Laxity, and Muscle Strength: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Konopka Jaclyn A. , Hsue Lauren J. , Dragoo Jason L.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Female patients are more likely than male patients to experience various musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries. Because MSK tissues are sensitive to the female hormones relaxin, estrogen, and progesterone, studies have examined whether hormonal contraceptives, which change female hormone levels, can alter the female MSK injury risk. These studies have reached contradictory conclusions, leaving unclear the influence of hormonal contraception on female MSK injury risk.

Hypothesis:

Hormonal contraceptives act to decrease female soft tissue injury risk and soft tissue laxity.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Reviewers searched for clinically relevant studies evaluating the relationship between hormonal contraceptive use and soft tissue injuries, soft tissue laxity, muscle injuries, and muscle strength in the PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, CINAHL, and Embase databases. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were scored by 2 independent researchers for risk of bias, imprecision, inconsistency, and indirectness with a template designed using the British Medical Journal Clinical Evidence GRADE (Grades of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation) scoring system and GRADEPro guidelines. Scores were uploaded into the GRADEPro scoring system software, which calculated each study’s final GRADE score ( very low, low, moderate, or high quality).

Results:

A total of 29 studies met inclusion criteria. Of the 7 studies evaluating oral contraceptive (OC) use and soft tissue injury risk, only 2 received a high quality-of-evidence score; all other studies received a very low score. The high-quality studies concluded that OC use decreases anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk. Only 1 of the 10 studies evaluating OC use and soft tissue laxity was found to have a high quality of evidence; this study determined that OC use decreases ACL laxity.

Conclusion:

Higher quality studies suggest that OCs decrease a female patient’s risk of ACL injuries and ACL laxity. The strength of these findings, however, is weak. Female patients are up to 8 times more likely to tear their ACLs than male patients. OCs may serve a therapeutic role in decreasing the sex disparity in ACL injury rates.
Using problem-based learning in a Chinese character class design: A case study of Korean learners of Chinese
Authors: Jang Eun Young , Park Heung Soo , Jeong Yeon Sil
Published: March 2019

This study attempted to try out Chinese-character education centering on experience and learners away from existing lecture-centered, teacher-centered education. For this purpose, problem-based learning (PBL) was proposed as one of the Chinese-language ability-enhancement measures for Korean learners of the Chinese language, and in order to examine the effect, we attempt to use the PBL tasks in the ‘Chinese-language reading’ class at a university for basic Chinese-language learners and analyze the results. PBL is a teaching-learning method in which learners focus on learning by using problems. In this study, we attempted to use PBL for the group work format. In this way, we can confirm that the class using the PBL has many advantages, such as improving learning ability and problem-solving ability, and strengthening cooperation. In addition, it was found that PBL is worthwhile to try because it is effective in inducing learning motivation, improving attention and interest in Chinese-character learning, improving learning attitudes of learners, and developing self-directed learning abilities.
The role of optical coherence tomography in therapeutics and conditions, which primarily have systemic manifestations: a narrative review
Authors: Mukherjee Chandoshi , Al-Fahad Qusay , Elsherbiny Samer
Published: March 2019

Optical coherence tomography is designed to evaluate in vivo qualitative and quantitative changes of the anterior segment, optic nerve and the retina. Initial applications of this technology were confined mainly to ophthalmic diseases. However recently, numerous studies have evaluated its use in systemic conditions and in therapeutics where, optic nerve and retinal architecture can be assessed to monitor progression of systemic conditions and its response to treatment. This is a narrative review aimed at evaluating the debate surrounding the role of spectral domain optical coherence tomography, in systemic conditions where optic nerve affection can be measured and be used in the diagnosis, monitoring and assessment of treatment effect as a non-invasive, quick, novel technique.
Inflammatory consequences of inherited disorders affecting neutrophil function
Authors: Dinauer Mary C.
Published: March 2019

Primary immunodeficiencies affecting the function of neutrophils and other phagocytic leukocytes are notable for an increased susceptibility to bacterial and fungal infections as a result of impaired leukocyte recruitment, ingestion, and/or killing of microbes. The underlying molecular defects can also impact other innate immune responses to infectious and inflammatory stimuli, leading to inflammatory and autoimmune complications that are not always directly related to infection. This review will provide an update on congenital disorders affecting neutrophil function in which a combination of host defense and inflammatory complications are prominent, including nicotinamide dinucleotide phosphate oxidase defects in chronic granulomatous disease and β2 integrin defects in leukocyte adhesion deficiency.
Linguistic emancipation within the Serbian mental map: The implementation of the Montenegrin and Macedonian standard languages
Authors: Voß Christian
Published: March 2019

This paper explores the striking similarity in the hesitant implementation of the new Macedonian and Montenegrin standards, which has taken unusually long in both cases. As will be shown, a comparative look at the two standardisation processes reveals parallels of language politics in Macedonia after 1944 and Montenegro after 2006. In both cases the implementation of the new standard is hesitant, slow, and shows policy shifts. A key conclusion of this paper is that this normative vacuum is possible because Serbian, as the traditional H-variety, is omnipresent in both countries. This observation however implies an optimistic outlook for Montenegrin since Macedonian standardisation today can be assessed as a success story, despite continuous contestation from neighbouring countries. The paper focuses on both differences and commonalities of the standardisation process in these two Yugoslav successor states.
Peeling the onion top-down: Language policy in Serbia between power and myth
Authors: Stanković Branimir , Stefanović Marija
Published: March 2019

This paper considers the issue of language policy and planning in Serbia, as managed by the main competent institution, the Serbian Language Standardization Committee, a trans-state, national institution dealing with vital issues of language policy and planning. Specifically, assuming a Bourdieusian perspective, it investigates the ideology behind the Committee’s policies, grounded in a series of language myths, and the way these policies influence professionals and everyday language users. The effects of a rigid, strict educational system and a standard language culture by educators are shown in detail focusing on the Torlak dialect in Southern Serbia. The Serbian case reveals a constant promotion of censorship and a heightened understanding of the benefits of self-censorship in the language market. This can be seen in the pressure exerted on certain speakers and the threat their mother tongue represents for their status in the labor market.
ΕΡΓΑΣΙΑ ΕΙΣ ΤΗΝ ΓΛΥΚΟΝΕΟΓΕΝΕΣΙΝ
Authors: ΑΝΤΙΚΑΤΖΙΔΟΥ Α.
Published: March 2019

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
ΑΠΟΜΟΝΩΣΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΤΑΥΤΟΠΟΙΗΣΙΣ ΤΟΥ ΙΟΥ ΤΗΣ ΛΟΙΜΩΔΟΥΣ ΡΙΝΟΤΡΑΧΕΙΙΤΙΔΟΣ ΤΩΝ ΒΟΟΕΙΔΩΝ (ΛΡΒ) ΕΝ ΕΛΛΑΔΙ
Authors: ΣΤΟΥΡΑΪΤΗΣ Π. , ΚΑΡΔΑΣΗΣ Ι.
Published: March 2019

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
ΣΥΜΒΟΛΗ ΕΙΣ ΤΗΝ ΜΕΛΕΤΗΝ ΤΩΝ ΜΕΤΕΜΒΟΛΙΑΚΩΝ ΑΝΤΙΔΡΑΣΕΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΑΠΩΛΕΙΩΝ ΕΙΣ ΤΟΥΣ ΧΟΙΡΟΥΣ ΕΚ ΤΗΣ ΧΡΗΣΕΩΣ ΖΩΝΤΩΝ ΤΡΟΠΟΠΟΙΗΜΕΝΩΝ ΕΜΒΟΛΙΩΝ ΚΑΤΑ ΤΗΣ ΠΑΝΩΛΟΥΣ
Authors: ΣΙΜΟΣ Ε.
Published: March 2019

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
Η ΝΟΣΟΣ TON ΟΙΔΗΜΑΤΩΝ TΩN ΧΟΙΡΙΔΙΩΝ ( ΠΡΩTAI ΠΑΡΑΤΗΡΗΣΕΙΣ EN ΕΛΛΑΔΙ )
Authors: ΣΤΟΦΟΡΟΣ Ε. , ΦΡΑΓΚΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ Α. , ΠΟΛΥΜΕΝΙΔΗΣ Α. , ΜΑΣΤΡΟΓΙΑΝΝΗ-ΚΟΡΚΟΛΟΠΟΥ Μ. , ΚΟΥΡΚΑΦΑ Γ.
Published: March 2019

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
Η ΛΙΠΏΔΗΣ ΕΚΦΥΛΙΣΙΣ ΤΟΥ ΗΠΑΤΟΣ ΕΙΣ ΤΗΝ ΙΡΙΔΙΖΟΥΣΑΝ ΠΕΣΤΡΟΦΑΝ (Πρώται παρατηρήσεις έν Ελλάδι)
Authors: ΠΝΕΥΜΑΤΙΚΑΤΟΣ Γ. Η.
Published: March 2019

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
ΔΙΑΓΝΩΣΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΘΕΡΑΠΕΙΑ ΤΗΣ ΑΤΡΟΦΙΑΣ ΤΩΝ ΩΟΘΗΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ TΩN ΚΡΥΦΩΝ "Η ΣΙΩΠΗΛΩΝ ΟΡΓΑΣΜΩΝ ΤΩΝ ΑΓΕΛΑΔΩΝ
Authors: ΣΕΙΤΑΡΙΔΗΣ Κ. , ΡΩΣΣΗΣ Θ. , ΚΑΠΟΥΛΑΣ Ι.
Published: March 2019

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
INFLUENCE OF PLANT HYDROCOLLOIDS ON THE STABILIZATION OF CHOCOLATE MILK
Authors: ΓΕΩΡΓΑΚΗΣ Σ. Α.
Published: March 2019

The stabilizing capacity of samples from plant hydrocolloids on the preparation of chocolate—milk was investigated. From the experimental data it is evident that all samples tested were not absolutely suitable for the preparation of chocolate—milk. In general the Karagenans had much better possibilities of utilization for this purpose than other kinds of plant hydrocolloids and at the same time they appeared to be practically more economical. However we must give emphasis to the fact that between the two sorts of Karagenans tested there are differences regarding the increase of viscosity coefficient as well as the economical aspect.
POSTHTIS AND VULVITIS IN EXPERIMENTALLY INDUCED ZINC DEFICIENT LAMBS
Authors: ΔΕΜΕΡΤΖΗΣ Π. Ν.
Published: March 2019

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
ESTABLISHMENT OF CRITERIA FOR ESTIMATION THE PUBLIC HEALTH ACCEPTABILITY AND THE QUALITY STANDARDIZATION OF THE YOGURT
Authors: ΣΚΟΥΝΤΖΟΣ Κ. , ΠΑΠΑΔΙΑ Α. , ΠΑΠΑΣΤΑΥΡΟΥ Θ. , ΠΑΝΑΓΙΩΤΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ Ν.
Published: March 2019

During the years 1971 and 1972, 455 yogourt samples produced from cow and sew milk in the districts of Athens and Thessaloniki, were examined. From the industrially produced yogurt 11,1% of the samples were found carrying a high E. coli content, while in small entreprises the percentage was 21,6%. No samples with coagulase and D—Ν—Ase positive staphylococcus species were detected. Extreme Soxhlet-Hankel acidity values appeared largely fluctuating from the mean value. The product is not standardised. Criteria for quality standardization and public health acceptability are suggested.
Α DISEASE OF TURKEY CHICKEN DUE TO ARIZONA ARIZONAE
Authors: ΒΟΓΙΑΖΑΣ Δ. , ΔΕΣΠΟΤΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ Α. , ΜΑΓΚΟΥΤΑ Π.
Published: March 2019

Many deaths of turkey chicken aged 1—20 days, as well as cases of turkey eggs not opened after the normal period of incubation or lethal chickens from incubated and opened eggs, led to the isolation of Arizona Arizona e. The clinical symptoms are described as well as the autopsy findings and the applied treatment which was consisting of the administration in the drinking water for 5—6 days one of the antibiotics to which the isolated strain was sensitive (Chloramphenicol or Neomycin)· This treatment gave a slight only decrease of morbidity and mortality.
AN OUTBREAK OF CAPRINE LISTERIOSIS IN EPIRUS (GREECE)
Authors: ΦΡΑΓΚΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ Α. , ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ Χ. , ΣΙΜΟΣ Ε. , ΓΕΡΑΛΕΞΗΣ Β.
Published: March 2019

This paper discusses a heavy outbreak of Caprine Listeriosis (encephalitic type) among the goats of the mountainous and rocky district of Paramythia of Epirus, from 1967 to 1972. During these years 45 herds have been affected and in 14.530 heads 800 died (5,6%). It is interesting to note that the disease killed only goats and did not spread to the sheep flocks which live among them in the same area.