bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) Autocrine Activation of Human Platelets Promotes EGF Receptor–Dependent Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Invasion, Migration, and Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Chen Rui , Jin Ge , Li Wei , McIntyre Thomas M.
Published: August 2018

Activated platelets release functional, high m.w. epidermal growth factor (HMW-EGF). In this study, we show platelets also express epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) protein, but not ErbB2 or ErbB4 coreceptors, and so might respond to HMW-EGF. We found HMW-EGF stimulated platelet EGFR autophosphorylation, PI3 kinase-dependent AKT phosphorylation, and a Ca2+ transient that were blocked by EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibition. Strong (thrombin) and weak (ADP, platelet-activating factor) G protein-coupled receptor agonists and non–G protein-coupled receptor collagen recruited EGFR tyrosine kinase activity that contributed to platelet activation because EGFR kinase inhibition reduced signal transduction and aggregation induced by each agonist. EGF stimulated ex vivo adhesion of platelets to collagen-coated microfluidic channels, whereas systemic EGF injection increased initial platelet deposition in FeCl3-damaged murine carotid arteries. EGFR signaling contributes to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tumorigenesis, but the source of its ligand is not established. We find individual platelets were intercalated within OSCC tumors. A portion of these platelets expressed stimulation-dependent Bcl-3 and IL-1β and so had been activated. Stimulated platelets bound OSCC cells, and material released from stimulated platelets induced OSCC epithelial–mesenchymal transition and stimulated their migration and invasion through Matrigel barriers. Anti-EGF Ab or EGFR inhibitors abolished platelet-induced tumor cell phenotype transition, migration, and invasion; so the only factor released from activated platelets necessary for OSCC metastatic activity was HMW-EGF. These results establish HMW-EGF in platelet function and elucidate a previously unsuspected connection between activated platelets and tumorigenesis through rapid, and prolonged, autocrine-stimulated release of HMW-EGF by tumor-associated platelets.
Youth ministry at the margins and/or centre as space of the other: Reflections on the resolutions of the Anglican dioceses in the Western Cape 2017
Authors: Klaasen John S.
Published: August 2018

Youth within the context of faith-based organisations carry with them certain power relations and misconstrued connotations. These power relations and connotations can contribute to alienation and marginalisation. The resolutions taken at the recent synods of the three dioceses within the Western Cape reflect and identify the areas - both liturgical and governance - of marginalisation of youth within the Anglican Church in southern Africa. The resolutions also call on the church governing bodies and the leaders to create safe spaces for the youth to be a central part of the mission of the church. Areas such as liturgy, training and formation, contemporary worship and nurturing relationships are identified within the resolutions. Theological notions of personhood within the Anglican tradition are to be investigated as possible motivations for more acceptable power relations of the youth and leaders and governance structures. What implications do such theological formulations have for the space that the youth occupy within the margins of the church? A critical reflection of the synod resolutions answers such questions and points to some contours for sense making of the youth within the margins of the church from a faith-based organisational perspective.
Occupancy and habitat use by six species of forest ungulates on Tiwai Island, Sierra Leone
Authors: McCollum Kathryn R. , Belinfonte Emily , Conway April L. , Carroll John P.
Published: August 2018

Forest ungulates in West Africa are common bushmeat species and are subject to habitat degradation through deforestation. Based on historical data, there are possibly 12 species of forest Bovidae and Tragulidae found in eastern Sierra Leone. We used camera trapping to assess occupancy by forest ungulates on and around a small protected area, Tiwai Island, Sierra Leone. We then assessed habitat over two field seasons during 2008–2011 for those species where we had sufficient numbers of detections. We detected 6 of 12 potential species and obtained enough data to further assess the habitat of two species. Species detected included the black duiker (Cephalophus niger), bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus), bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus), Maxwell’s duiker (Philantomba maxwellii), water chevrotain (Hyemoschus aquaticus) and yellow-backed duiker (Cephalophus silvicultor). Among detected species, the bongo is considered near threatened. Several of the species not detected might be extirpated from the region, but for several species we found no records of them in the area. For the two species with sufficient detections for analysis, we found that Maxwell’s duikers were common throughout woody and swamp habitat and yellow-backed duikers preferred old growth forests with open understory. Despite widespread deforestation in Sierra Leone, a recent civil war and continued bushmeat trade, it appears that small wildlife refuges such as Tiwai Island continue to provide sanctuary for many of the forest ungulates of the region.Conservation implications: The Guinea Rainforest ecosystem of West Africa has undergone significant human impact and deforestation, negatively impacting all aspects of the biodiversity of the region. In addition, a long-standing civil war in Sierra Leone further exacerbated conservation concerns of many wildlife species. There are some recognised reserves in Sierra Leone, but small reserves managed by local people and conservation organisations have a role to play. Our work on Tiwai Island, along the Moa River in Sierra Leone, demonstrated that a significant proportion of the forest dwelling ungulate biodiversity of the region has been maintained in a small reserve despite isolation and effects of the war. Our work also suggests that Tiwai Island continues to have significant ecological value for ungulate conservation in the region and should be considered a model for establishment of other small reserves to help maintain the region’s biodiversity.
Lay perceptions, beliefs and practices linked to the persistence of anthrax outbreaks in cattle in the Western Province of Zambia
Authors: Sitali Doreen C. , Twambo Mwamba C. , Chisoni Mumba , Bwalya Muma J. , Munyeme Musso
Published: August 2018

Anthrax, a neglected zoonotic disease that is transmitted by a spore-forming, rod-shaped bacterium, Bacillus anthracis, has reached endemic proportions in the Western Province of Zambia. Transmission of anthrax from the environment as well as between cattle has been observed to be partly because of entrenched beliefs, perceptions and traditional practices among cattle farmers in the known outbreak areas. This study was aimed at exploring lay perceptions, beliefs and practices that influence anthrax transmission in cattle of the Western Province. A mixed-methods study was conducted from August to December 2015. Quantitative data were collected using a cross-sectional survey. Qualitative data were generated by interviewing professional staff and community members. Five focus group discussions and five key informant interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis of interview data was performed using NVivo software. The findings suggested that cattle anthrax was biologically as well as culturally maintained. Cattle farmers were reluctant to have their livestock vaccinated against anthrax because of perceived low efficacy of the vaccine. Also, the cattle farmers did not trust professional staff and their technical interventions. Popular cultural practices that involved exchange of animals between herds contributed to uncontrolled cattle movements between herds and subsequent transmission of anthrax. These findings imply the need for professional staff to be culturally competent in handling socio-cultural issues that are known to be barriers for disease control in animals. There is a need to develop a policy framework that will foster integrated control of anthrax across disciplines.
The use of organisational network analysis as a diagnostic tool during team coaching
Authors: Terblanche Nicky H.D. , Erasmus Edna D.
Published: August 2018

Orientation: Organisational network analysis (ONA) examines relationships between people and is a potential diagnostic tool to use during team coaching interventions. Research purpose: The objective of this research was to investigate how ONA can be used during a team coaching intervention aimed at addressing business challenges. Motivation for the study: The use of ONA as a diagnostic tool in individual coaching has been researched, but has not been applied in the emerging field of team coaching. Research approach/design and method: An action research methodology employing both quantitative and qualitative methods was used in this research. A purposive sampling approach was used to select a leadership team of four people who received 11 team coaching sessions. Quantitative data were collected from the leadership team and their 18 direct reports, using pre- and post-test intervention ONA questionnaires. Qualitative data were collected after the coaching intervention using semi-structured interviews with the leadership team. Main findings: Organisational network analysis helped to identify team coaching goals based on business challenges. It indicated the extent to which team coaching enhanced communication between the leadership team and their reports, enabling them to address business challenges. Organisational network analysis results taken out of context could, however, be misinterpreted. Practical/managerial implications: Team coaches, ONA practitioners and leadership teams could use ONA as a diagnostic tool during team coaching interventions to identify team coaching goals based on business challenges, to gain insights into team dynamics and to assess the contribution of team coaching for addressing business challenges. Organisational network analysis should not be taken at face value and should ideally be triangulated with other data sources such as interviews. Contribution/value-add: On a scholarly level, this research provides empirical evidence for the benefits of using ONA during a team coaching intervention. On a practice level, suggestions are provided for the manner in which ONA can guide team coaching interventions.
Comparative evaluation of three different recording criteria of dental fluorosis in a known endemic fluoride area of Haryana
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Gauba Krishan , Goyal Ashima , Kapur Aditi
Published: August 2018

Background & objectives:

Various indices are available to record different grade of severity of dental fluorosis. These indices have chances of inter- and intra- examiner variability. Therefore, study was conducted to compare three different indices for recording dental fluorosis to find out the best and most practical index of recording dental fluorosis for field studies in children living in a fluoride endemic area.

Methods:

The severity grades were recorded in 300 schoolchildren aged 12-15 yr having dental fluorosis of low, medium and high fluoride areas using three different indices, viz. Dean's fluorosis index (1942), tooth surface index for fluorosis (TSIF, 1984) and ICMR index (2013). Dean's index was used as gold standard.

Results:

The occurrence of moderate and severe cases was higher as per the Dean's index and of mild and severe cases was higher as per the TSIF and the ICMR index. The mean time required for recording dental fluorosis as per Dean's index and TSIF was similar and almost double (1.25±0.05 min) of that required for ICMR index (0.68±0.20 min). The intra-examiner variability was found to be least in the ICMR index compared to Dean's index and TSIF.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The ICMR index is a simple index with objective scores and takes less time in recording the dental fluorosis as compared to Dean's index and TSIF in field studies.
Intervention strategies to reduce the burden of soil-transmitted helminths in India
Authors: Abraham Dilip , Kaliappan Saravanakumar Puthupalayam , Walson Judd L. , Rao Ajjampur Sitara Swarna
Published: August 2018

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections continue to be a major global cause of morbidity, with a large proportion of the burden of STH infections occurring in India. In addition to direct health impacts of these infections, including anaemia and nutritional deficiencies in children, these infections also significantly impact economic development, as a result of delays in early childhood cognitive development and future income earning potential. The current World Health Organization strategy for STH is focused on morbidity control through the application of mass drug administration to all pre-school-aged and school-aged children. In India, the control of STH-related morbidity requires mobilization of significant human and financial resources, placing additional burdens on limited public resources. Infected adults and untreated children in the community act as a reservoir of infection by which treated children get rapidly reinfected. As a result, deworming programmes will need to be sustained indefinitely in the absence of other strategies to reduce reinfection, including water, hygiene and sanitation interventions (WASH). However, WASH interventions require sustained effort by the government or other agencies to build infrastructure and to promote healthy behavioural modifications, and their effectiveness is often limited by deeply entrenched cultural norms and behaviours. Novel strategies must be explored to provide a lasting solution to the problem of STH infections in India other than the indefinite provision of deworming for morbidity control.
Giant Occipital Encephalocele with Chiari Malformation Type 3
Authors: Kanesen Davendran , Rosman Azmin Kass , Kandasamy Regunath
Published: August 2018

Encephaloceles are rare embryological mesenchymal developmental anomalies resulting from inappropriate ossification in the skull through which herniate the intracranial contents of the sac. Occipital encephaloceles are described as giant when they are larger than the head from which they arise, and they pose a great surgical challenge. Herein, we present a case of a giant occipital encephalocele in a neonate with Chiari malformation Type 3 to highlight the problems encountered in its management and the outcome of the surgery.
Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms in Relatives of Intensive Care Unit Patients and the Perceived Need for Support
Authors: Bolosi Maria , Peritogiannis Vaios , Tzimas Petros , Margaritis Athanasios , Milios Konstantinos , Rizos Dimitrios V.
Published: August 2018

Background: Admission of a patient in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the recovery process may be stressful for family members. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the families’ psychological symptoms and their evolution over the 1st week of patients’ ICU stay. Additional objectives were the estimation of the families’ need for support and the estimation of satisfaction regarding the information provided by ICU physicians. Methods: A total of 108 individuals were participated in the study. Participants were interviewed with the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and filled the Beck Depression Scale II on days 1 and 7 of patients’ ICU admission. They also filled a self-reported questionnaire which was created by the investigators, involving decision-making procedures; the satisfaction of the families of the patients’ care; and the support of the families by medical and nursing staff. Results: Anxiety levels were not significantly different among 2-time points, whereas rates of depressive symptoms raised significantly from 38% (day 1) to 58.3% (day 7). In cases of anxiety changes, age, education, closeness of relationship, and APACHE II score were the factors been associated. Changes in depressive symptoms were not associated with any of those factors. Over a week, there were significant differences in relatives’ views on participating in the decision-making procedure, and on expressing their opinion and concerns regarding the treatment process. Their attitudes about receiving support by the ICU personnel and even by mental health specialists, such as psychologists also changed. Conclusions: Over the 1st week of ICU admission, depressive symptoms in patients’ relatives were gradually evolving, while anxiety symptoms fluctuated and they were affected by the severity of the patients’ condition. Attitudes toward treatment procedures and the perceived need for support also changed. These findings should be taken into account by the ICU personnel.
Detailed Clinical and Electrophysiological Illustration of a Patient with Sturge–Weber Syndrome Presenting with Prolonged Transient Neurological Symptoms
Authors: Onder Halil
Published: August 2018

Although transient neurological deficits in Sturge–Weber syndrome (SWS) have been acknowledged for many years, the underlying pathogenesis still constitutes a major topic of discussion. Here, we present the case of a 10-year-old boy with SWS presenting with a progressive clinically mimicking right middle cerebral artery syndrome. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging showed unremarkable findings except extensive right hemisphere leptomeningeal angiomas. Antiepileptic drug (AED) treatments provided recovery of the patient, and concurrently recorded electroencephalography (EEG) revealed delta slowing of the lesional hemisphere in the acute period. However, slowing of the background activity extended to the contralateral hemisphere in subacute period, while ipsilateral background activity started to recover. In the 3rd week of follow-up on intensive AED treatments, the patient totally recovered as well as nearly the normalization of EEG was achieved. In this report, we focus on the dramatic revolution of EEG activity in both hemispheres during the recovery period. Based on this rare illustration and limited literature data, the author suggests some hypotheses regarding the pathophysiology of this mysterious manifestation (transient neurological deficit) in SWS. Future studies of large case series, including detailed paraclinical parameters and remarkably electrophysiological data, are warranted to clarify these arguments.
Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Fixation for Extension of Fusion in Cases of Failed Lumbosacral Fusion
Authors: Turel Mazda K. , Kerolus Mena , Deutsch Harel
Published: August 2018

Sacroiliac fusion and instrumentation extension for correction of failed lumbosacral fusions traditionally requires a long revision surgery. Reopening of the prior surgical incision to expose the prior instrumentation requires a large incision with increased blood loss, increased operative time, increased risk of infection, and longer hospitalization times. We describe the first case series using a minimally invasive surgical sacroiliac screw technique for extension of a prior fusion to the pelvis. Using two small 3-cm paramedian incisions on each side, we were able to obtain autologous iliac crest bone graft, place the sacroiliac screw minimally invasive, perform an arthrodesis, and connect the prior surgical hardware to the sacroiliac screw safely. A detailed review of surgical technique, clinical cases, and brief review of the literature is discussed.
Profile of Patients from a Neurology Registry in Resource-Poor Rural Northwest India
Authors: Bhardwaj Amit , Sharma Ashish , Kumar Girish , Angra Monika , Bhardwaj Sapna S. , Raina Sunil Kumar , Sharma Sushant , Sharma Piyush
Published: August 2018

Background: The neurology register is based in a tertiary care center in a rural north-west India. The center caters to a predominantly rural population. The present study is based on the data retrieved from this registry over a period of 1 year. Materials and Methods: Details of the patients reporting to the Department of Neurology are entered in a registry. For the purpose of this study, 1-year data (from August 1, 2013, to July 31, 2014) of patients (with complete information and final diagnosis) were analyzed. Results: Out of a total of 2431 patients, 1296 (53.3%) were males and 1135 (46.7%) were females. The six major neurological disorders identified were epilepsy and seizures, headache, spondolysis with neurological manifestations, cerebrovascular disease, Parkinsonism, and neuropathies. Conclusion: Six neurological disorders account for more than two-thirds of the patients with neurological disorders, whereas epilepsy, seizures, and headache together constituted more than one-third.
A Young Patient with Stroke and Primary Tuberculosis
Authors: Arulprakash Narenraj , Narayanan Lavanya , Narayanan Senthil
Published: August 2018

A 21-year-old woman presented with left hemiparesis, fever, dyspnea, tachycardia, and pericardial rub on examination. She was provisionally diagnosed with infective endocarditis and received the final diagnosis of the primary pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and extra PTB (EPTB) with pericardial effusion and thoracic lymphadenitis. Left hemiparesis due to a pontine infarct was attributed to TB with neurovasculitis. The diagnosis was supported by findings on imaging studies such as echocardiography, computed tomography of the thorax, and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain. She improved with anti-TB treatment. It is interesting to note that she was not immunodeficient, with the usual suspects such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, diabetes mellitus, and renal failure ruled out. We conclude that PTB and EPTB must be considered in any febrile illness, even in patients who are not immunodeficient, considering its atypical presentation and prevalence in India.
Preliminary Results of the Macedonian-Adapted Version of Ages and Stages Developmental Questionnaires
Authors: Stanoevska Blagica , Anunciação Luis , Squires Jane , Singh Ajay , Trajkovski Vladimir
Published: August 2018

Context: Early detection of developmental problems is critical, and interventions are more effective when they are carried out early in a child's life. In Macedonia, there are only four centers providing early intervention services. Aims: In this research, we determined the reliability of the translation and adaptation of Ages and Stages Questionnaires 3rd edition (ASQ-3-M) for assessment of children aged 3–5 years old in Macedonia, and reported preliminary results of the gender differences in the development. Materials and Methods: ASQ-3-M was completed by 165 parents and 40 educators in seven kindergarten classrooms. Children were 3–5 years old. Statistical Analysis Used: Cronbach's alpha, Intraclass Correlation coefficient (ICC), and interrater reliability (IRR) were used to assess ASQ-3-M psychometric properties. The Bayesian t-test was performed to estimate the difference in means between males and females. Results: The Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0.65 to 0.87. The overall ICC was 0.89 (ranged from 0.8 to 0.95), which indicates a strong to almost perfect strength of agreement between test-retest. IRR correlation revealed an average of 0.88 (ranged from 0.74 to 0.95), suggesting that ASQ-3-M is reliable and stable. Conclusions: The results from the comparison between males and females on all dimensions of ASQ-3-M were not statistically significant (BF10 <3), indicating no significant gender difference. That said, the ASQ-3 is recommended for routine use in screening children aged 3–5 years old.
Origin of Thyrolingual Trunk from the Common Carotid Artery
Authors: Goyal Sumit , Jain Manish S. , Shrivastava Amit , Jain Rahul
Published: August 2018

Common carotid artery (CCA) usually does not have any branches in the neck and divides into internal and external carotid artery. Superior thyroid and lingual artery (commonly called as thyro lingual trunk) are the branches of external carotid artery. We report a case of rare origin of thyrolingual trunk from the CCA in a case of ruptured intracranial aneurysm.
Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 is Linked with Poor Cardio-Metabolic Profile in Patients with Ischemic Stroke: A Study of Effects of Statins
Authors: Alkuraishy Hayder M. , Al-Gareeb Ali I. , Waheed Huda J.
Published: August 2018

Objectives: The objective of the study is to investigate the effects of statins on the lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) mass in patients with ischemic stroke. Materials and Methods: A total number of 59 patient ages 43–69 years with cerebral stroke compared to 39 healthy controls that matching the age and body weight. The patients were divided into 32 patients on statins therapy assigned as statins users and 27 patients, not on statins therapy assigned as nonstatins users. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were done including lipid profile and inflammatory biomarkers. Results: Stroke patients on statins therapy showed a comparable low of Lp-PLA (29.82 ± 3.19 IU/mL) to nonstatins user stroke patients (15.58 ± 5.73 IU/mL). Lp-PLA2 mass levels were positively correlated with body mass index, blood pressure changes, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and very low-density lipoprotein and stroke risk (SR) percentage. Conclusions: Patients on statins with ischemic stroke had low levels of Lp-PLA2 mass levels compared to nonstatins user with ischemic stroke. Lp-PLA2 mass levels were higher in men than women and correlated with lipid profile and SR in patients with ischemic stroke.
Cyclicity in Dirichlet Spaces
Authors: Elmadani Y. , Labghail I.
Published: August 2018

Let
$\unicode[STIX]{x1D707}$
be a positive finite Borel measure on the unit circle and
${\mathcal{D}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D707})$
the associated harmonically weighted Dirichlet space. In this paper we show that for each closed subset
$E$
of the unit circle with zero
$c_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D707}}$
-capacity, there exists a function
$f\in {\mathcal{D}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D707})$
such that
$f$
is cyclic (i.e.,
$\{pf:p\text{ is a polynomial}\}$
is dense in
${\mathcal{D}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D707})$
),
$f$
vanishes on
$E$
, and
$f$
is uniformly continuous. Next, we provide a sufficient condition for a continuous function on the closed unit disk to be cyclic in
${\mathcal{D}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D707})$
.
$C_0$-semigroups of $2$-isometries and Dirichlet spaces
Authors: Gallardo-Gutiérrez Eva A. , Partington Jonathan R.
Published: August 2018

In the context of a theorem of Richter, we establish a similarity between

C_0

-semigroups of analytic

2

-isometries

\{T(t)\}_{t\geq0}

acting on a Hilbert space

\mathcal H

and the multiplication operator semigroup

\{M_{\phi_t}\}_{t\geq 0}

induced by

\phi_t(s)=\mathrm {exp}(-st)

for

s

in the right-half plane

\mathbb{C}_+

acting boundedly on weighted Dirichlet spaces on

\mathbb{C}_+

. As a consequence, we derive a connection with the right shift semigroup

\{S_t\}_{t\geq 0}

given by

S_tf(x)=\left \{ \begin{array}{ll} 0 & \text { if }0\leq x\leq t, \\ f(x-t)& \text{ if } x>t, \end{array} \right .

acting on a weighted Lebesgue space on the half line

\mathbb{R}_+

and address some applications regarding the study of the invariant subspaces of

C_0

-semigroups of analytic 2-isometries.
SERUM CYTOKINE PROFILES IN PATIENTS WITH PLASMODIUM VIVAX MALARIA: A COMPARISON BETWEEN THOSE WHO PRESENTED WITH AND WITHOUT HYPERPYREXIA
Authors: SEOH JU-YOUNG , KHAN MOHAMMAD , PARK SE-HO , PARK HAE-KYUNG , SHIN MYONG-HEON , HA EUN-HEE , LEE BO-EUN , YOO KWON , HAN HO-SEONG , OH SEJOONG , WI JUN-HWAN , HONG CHANG-KWON , OH CHANG-HYUN , KIM YOUNG-A , PARK JAE-WON
Published: August 2018

Serum cytokine profiles in patients with Plasmodium vivax malaria who presented with and without hyperpyrexia were compared by a retrospective review of the medical records of the consecutive patients seen at the military hospitals near the demilitarized zone in the Republic of Korea from April 2000 through October 2001. Of 162 male patients studied, 120 (86.4%) presented with hyperpyrexia (i.e., an axillary temperature ≥ 40°C). The mean ± SEM ages of the patients with and without hyperpyrexia were 21.5 ± 0.14 and 21.9 ± 0.39 years, respectively (P = 0.33). The mean ± SEM concentrations of serum interleukin (IL)-6 (379.7 ± 44.1 pg/mL versus 105.4 ± 26.8 pg/mL; P = 0.002), IL-10 (583.4 ± 58.2 pg/mL versus 142.4 ± 39.7 pg/mL; P = 0.0001), and interferon-𝛄 (312.6 ± 33.9 pg/mL versus 112.9 ± 27.1 pg/mL; P = 0.0001) were significantly higher in patients with hyperpyrexia compared with those without hyperpyrexia. The mean ± SEM concentrations of serum tumor necrosis factor-α were 155.5 ± 54.5 pg/mL and 109.9 ± 29.3 pg/mL (P = 0.27) in patients who presented with and without hyperpyrexia, respectively. Further studies are needed to examine whether serum concentrations of these cytokines also parallel their concentrations at the tissue sites of their production and action.
EFFICACY OF CHLOROQUINE, SULFADOXINE-PYRIMETHAMINE, AND MEFLOQUINE FOR THE TREATMENT OF UNCOMPLICATED PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM MALARIA ON THE NORTH COAST OF PERU
Authors: MARQUIÑO WILMER , MACARTHUR JOHN R. , BARAT LAWRENCE M. , OBLITAS FERNANDO E. , ARRUNÁTEGUI MANUEL , GARAVITO GINO , CHAFLOQUE MARITZA L. , PARDAVÉ BLANCA , GUTIERREZ SONIA , ARRÓSPIDE NANCY , CARRILLO CARLOS , CABEZAS CÉSAR , RUEBUSH TRENTON K.
Published: August 2018

As part of an effort to assess antimalarial drug resistance in Peru, we carried out 14-day in vivo efficacy trials of chloroquine (CQ; 25 mg/kg) and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP; 25 mg/kg of the sulfadoxine component) for the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum infections at three sites on the northern coast of Peru. Mefloquine (MQ; 15 mg/kg) also was evaluated at one site. The results from all three sites were similar. Of the 53 patients treated with CQ, 58.5% had RII/RIII responses. No RIII failures were observed among the 112 patients who received SP, but 4.5% and 1.8%, respectively, had RII and RI responses. All 33 patients treated with MQ showed a sensitive response. Early treatment failures were observed in 27.1% of the CQ patients but in no patients receiving SP or MQ. Late treatment failures were seen in 59.3% of the CQ patients and 6.4% of the SP patients but in none of those treated with MQ. Based on these findings and because of concern about the potential for development of resistance if SP were used alone, the National Malaria Control Program is planning a change in malaria treatment policy to SP-artesunate combination therapy for this region of the country.
RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED TRIAL OF ORAL ARTEMETHER FOR THE PREVENTION OF PATENT SCHISTOSOMA HAEMATOBIUM INFECTIONS
Authors: N’GORAN ELIÉZER K. , UTZINGER JÜRG , GNAKA HENRI N. , YAPI AHOA , N’GUESSAN NICAISE A. , KIGBAFORI SILUÉ D. , LENGELER CHRISTIAN , CHOLLET JACQUES , SHUHUA XIAO , TANNER MARCEL
Published: August 2018

Artemether is an efficacious antimalarial drug that also displays antischistosomal properties. Laboratory studies have found that artemether curtails the development of adult worms of Schistosoma japonicum, S. mansoni, and S. haematobium, and thus prevents morbidity. These findings have been confirmed in clinical trials for the former two parasites; administered orally once every 2–3 weeks, artemether significantly reduced the incidence and intensity of patent infections. Here, we present the first randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of artemether against S. haematobium, done in a highly endemic area of Côte d’Ivoire. Urine specimens from 440 schoolchildren were examined over 4 consecutive days, followed by two systematic praziquantel treatments 4 weeks apart. S. haematobium-negative children were randomized to receive 6 mg/kg artemether (N = 161) or placebo (N = 161). Medication was administered orally for a total of six doses once every 4 weeks. Adverse events were assessed 72 hours after medication, and perceived illness episodes were monitored throughout the study period. Incidence and intensity of S. haematobium infections, and microhematuria and macrohematuria were assessed 3 weeks after the final dosing. We also monitored malaria parasitemia and treated positive cases with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP). Oral artemether was well tolerated. The incidence of patent S. haematobium infections in artemether recipients was significantly lower than in placebo recipients (49% versus 65%, protective efficacy: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.08–0.38, P = 0.007). The geometric mean infection intensity in the artemether group was less than half that of the placebo recipients (3.4 versus 7.4 eggs/10 mL urine, P < 0.001). Heavy S. haematobium infections, microhematuria and macrohematuria, and the incidence of malaria parasitemia were all significantly lower in artemether recipients. In conclusion, previous findings of efficacy of artemether against S. japonicum and S. mansoni were confirmed for S. haematobium, although the protective efficacy was considerably lower. These findings enlarge the scope and potential of artemether and further contribute to discussions of its role as an additional tool for integrated schistosomiasis control.
SUBCELLULAR LOCALIZATION OF RICKETTSIAL INVASION PROTEIN, INVA
Authors: GAYWEE JARIYANART , SACCI JOHN B. , RADULOVIC SUZANA , BEIER MAGDA S. , AZAD ABDU F.
Published: August 2018

To understand further the molecular basis of rickettsial host cell invasion, Rickettsia prowazekii invasion gene homolog (invA) has been characterized. Our previous experiments have shown that InvA is an Ap5A pyrophosphatase, a member of the Nudix hydrolase family, which is up-regulated during the internalization, early growth phase, and exit steps during rickettsial mammalian cell infection. In addition to the molecular characterization, subcellular localization of InvA was investigated. InvA-specific antibodies were raised in mice and used for immunoelectron microscopy. The generated antibodies were shown to recognize InvA and by immunogold labeling showed InvA in the cytoplasm of rickettsiae. A cytoplasmic location for InvA would allow for a rapid response to any internal substance and efficient functioning in hydrolysis of toxic metabolic by-products that are accumulated in the rickettsial cytoplasm during host cell invasion. Protecting bacteria from a hazardous environment could enhance their viability and allow them to remain metabolically active, which is a necessary step for the rickettsial obligate intracellular lifestyle.
PROTECTIVE EFFICACY OF THE RTS,S/AS02 PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM MALARIA VACCINE IS NOT STRAIN SPECIFIC
Authors: ALLOUECHE ALI , MILLIGAN PAUL , CONWAY DAVID J. , PINDER MARGARET , BOJANG KALIFA , DOHERTY TOM , TORNIEPORTH NADIA , COHEN JOE , GREENWOOD BRIAN M.
Published: August 2018

RTS,S/AS02 is a recombinant protein malaria vaccine that contains a large portion of the C-terminal of the circumsporozoite protein (CSP) sequence of the NF54 isolate of Plasmodium falciparum fused to the hepatitis B virus surface antigen. It has been shown to induce significant protection to challenge infection with a homologous parasite strain in American volunteers. In a recently completed trial in semi-immune Gambian adults, vaccine efficacy against natural infection was 34% (95% confidence interval = 8–53%, P = 0.014) during the malaria season following vaccination. Breakthrough P. falciparum parasites sampled from vaccinated subjects and from controls were genotyped at two polymorphic regions of the csp gene encoding T cell epitopes (csp-th2r and csp-th3r) to determine if the vaccine conferred a strain-specific effect. The overall distribution of csp allelic variants was similar in infections occurring in vaccine and control groups. Also, the mean number of genotypes per infection in the RTS,S/AS02 group was not reduced compared with the controls.
Standard Rainflow File Format
Authors:   Materials, Processes and Parts Council
Published: August 2018

This SAE Standard provides a definition of a rainflow file format. This type of simple text file would contain all relevant information about the rainflow cycle content of a time history. Included information are Comments, Signal Range, Signal Mean, Number of Cycles, Signal Maximum, Signal Minimum.

Rainflow cycle counting has become the most accepted procedure for identifying material fatigue relevant cycles in complex variable amplitude load time histories. The cycle counting methods account for the effects of material plasticity and material memory of prior deformation, and the resulting compressed history information is used by durability analysts to estimate the effects of a given service or test history. Standardization of the rainflow counting methods output files, which is the format addressed by the present standard, is important for reliable information transfer between test and design groups, or different calculation software packages, and thus forms a critical step in the evaluation of components and vehicles. Further background information can be found in the SAE publication AE-10 cited in 2.1.1.
Field survey of the 2017 Typhoon Hato and a comparison with storm surge modeling
in Macau
Authors: Li Linlin , Yang Jie , Lin Chuan-Yao , Chua Constance Ting , Wang Yu , Zhao Kuifeng , Wu Yun-Ta , Liu Philip Li-Fan , Switzer Adam D. , Mok Kai Meng , Wang Peitao , Peng Dongju
Published: August 2018

Abstract. On August 23, 2017 a Category 3 Typhoon Hato struck Southern China. Among the hardest hit cities, Macau experienced the worst flooding since 1925. In this paper, we present a high-resolution survey map recording inundation depths and distances at 278 sites in Macau. We show that one half of the Macau Peninsula was inundated with the extent largely confined by the hilly topography. The Inner Harbor area suffered the most with the maximum inundation depth of 3.1 m at the coast. Using a combination of numerical models, we simulate and reproduce this typhoon and storm surge event. We further investigate the effects of tidal level and sea level rise on coastal inundations in Macau during the landfall of a Hato like event.
El registro arqueológico como patrimonio histórico
Authors: Zafra de la Torre Narciso
Published: August 2018

El patrimonio arqueológico se define por su metodología y no por sus valores, en consecuencia la disciplina arqueológica y sus profesionales estamos comprometidos en su definición. Como, además, una parte de la metodología –el registro arqueológico- se ocupa de los hallazgos y su inventario, entonces determina (determinamos) el dominio público arqueológico. Mediante el dominio público arqueológico el legislador ha otorgado una protección superior al patrimonio arqueológico, al entender que está constantemente amenazado de expolio y que, por ello, debe ser retirado del mercado. Esta amenaza demuestra que el patrimonio arqueológico es un patrimonio indeseado, y por tanto no puede ser el resultado de una convención social. De lo anterior se infiere que todo el registro arqueológico es, y debe seguir siendo, patrimonio histórico.
Etnoarqueología en Tierra del Fuego (Argentina): una experimentación metodológica sobre las dinámicas sociales
Authors: García-Piquer Albert , Carracedo-Recasens Robert , Vila-Mitjà Assumpció , Estévez Jordi
Published: August 2018

Desde hace más de 25 años se han llevado a cabo en Tierra del Fuego (Argentina) una serie de proyectos etnoarqueológicos hispano-argentinos dirigidos a contrastar arqueológicamente el registro etnográfico de sociedades cazadoras-recolectoras. El principal objetivo ha sido el desarrollo metodológico para un adecuado reconocimiento de la organización social de estas sociedades que pudiera aplicarse a contextos arqueológicos. Para ello adoptamos una aproximación integral –arqueológica, etnográfica, tafonómica y experimental– a la que denominamos “Etnoarqueología experimental”. En el marco de estos proyectos excavamos varios yacimientos arqueológicos del siglo XIX, es decir, correspondientes al período de contacto europeo con las sociedades indígenas y del cual se dispone amplia información etnográfica. En el trabajo aquí presentado expondremos los diferentes proyectos y sus conclusiones más importantes, concentrándonos en los resultados de la investigación en dos de los asentamientos Yámana excavados durante estos proyectos, Túnel VII y Lanashuaia, ubicados ambos en la costa norte del Canal Beagle.
Una perspectiva desde la cotidianidad sobre la cultura material mursi (SW Etiopía)
Authors: Salazar Bonet Juan , Clarck Timothy , Brittain Marcus
Published: August 2018

Los mursi son un grupo agrícola-ganadero del sudoeste de Etiopía que construye unos poblados temporales denominados ôrri a bio. En estos asentamientos se emplea, de forma cotidiana, una serie de objetos realizados a partir de materiales locales abundantes mediante técnicas conocidas por la mayor parte de la población. Habitualmente, los estudios sobre identidades colectivas prestan menos atención a este tipo de objetos cotidianos y, en cambio, priorizan otros de carácter más extraordinario. Sin embargo, este conjunto de materiales, así como sus formas, funciones, significados y las prácticas asociadas a ellos, tienen un papel relevante a la hora de establecer quién pertenece a la comunidad y cómo lo hace. En el presente estudio se emplea el ôrri a bio como unidad de observación etnoarqueológica donde explorar la relación entre diversas materialidades y la construcción de un particular nosotros.
La representación sindical en España: cobertura y límites
Authors: Jódar Pere , Alós Ramon , Beneyto Pere , Vidal Sergi
Published: August 2018

El objetivo de este artículo es realizar una aproximación al sistema de representación unitaria en la empresa en España a partir de una explotación estadística de los datos de las elecciones sindicales. Se trata de conocer aspectos como el alcance de la representación unitaria, la participación de los asalariados y la audiencia electoral de los sindicatos, con el objetivo de delimitar su representatividad y legitimidad. Nuestro trabajo se centra en el análisis de los tres últimos períodos electorales (2003-2007, 2007-2012 y 2012-2015), con objeto de evaluar el impacto del ciclo económico sobre la representación de los asalariados.
Expectativas y límites (subpensados) de la formación para la inserción laboral de personas inmigrantes. El caso de Barcelona 2009-2011
Authors: Yufra Laura C.
Published: August 2018

En el presente artículo pretendemos reconocer la incidencia de la formación para la inserción laboral, como estrategia de intervención ofrecida a la población inmigrante en la ciudad de Barcelona, durante los años 2009 y 2011. Asumimos un tipo de aproximación cualitativa a los cursos de formación que se llevan a cabo en la mencionada ciudad, realizando observaciones participantes en dichos cursos y entrevistas a los sujetos implicados. Identificamos cómo tal estrategia goza de una valoración unánimemente positiva por parte de quienes diseñan y ejecutan las políticas de formación, y esto impide una reflexión sistemática sobre sus límites. Entre ellos, los heterogéneos objetivos asignados y el papel de la estructura productiva como condicionante de sus potencialidades. Desde las prácticas concretas, emergen expectativas mucho más modestas, pero no menos valiosas, como la posibilidad de sistematizar conocimientos previos y ofrecer saberes prácticos para el desarrollo de futuros posibles trabajos.
Las relaciones laborales construidas en la industria del cemento, Olavarría, Argentina 1940-1970
Authors: Lemiez Griselda
Published: August 2018

Las relaciones laborales construidas en las empresas cementeras de la ciudad de Olavarría, de unos 100 mil habitantes ubicada en el centro de la provincia de Buenos Aires, adquirieron en el período 1940-1970 una forma característica que marcó desde entonces la historia y la identidad de la ciudad.Empresarios, trabajadores y familias obreras se vinculaban en una trama específica de relaciones económicas y socioculturales que se expresaban y daban forma a un contexto histórico particular. En el siguiente artículo, analizaremos como se articulaban esas relaciones laborales y cuales eran esos actores sociales que entraban en escena para dar vida, construir y modificar aquella realidad.
La distribución del tiempo productivo y reproductivo en las parejas reconstituidas. ¿Son más equitativas que las biparentales?
Authors: Ajenjo-Cosp Marc , García-Saladrigas Núria
Published: August 2018

Se analiza la distribución del tiempo de las parejas reconstituidas a partir de las Encuestas de Empleo del Tiempo 2002-2003 y 2009-2010, comparando las parejas reconstituidas con algún hijo menor de 18 años con las parejas biparentales de características similares. Se evalúa el tiempo total (hombre más mujer) y la diferencia de tiempo (hombre menos mujer) que las parejas invierten en trabajo remunerado y no remunerado, distinguiendo las tareas domésticas de las de cuidado. El primer hallazgo es que, en su conjunto, las parejas reconstituidas invierten menos tiempo en trabajo no remunerado que las biparentales –sobre todo en trabajo doméstico–, presumiblemente por su experiencia previa de monoparentalidad. En cuanto a las diferencias de género, la conclusión apunta que las parejas reconstituidas en las que ella aporta los hijos son claramente más igualitarias que las biparentales, mientras que cuando es él quien aporta los hijos, la conclusión es menos evidente.
Economía social, jóvenes y empleo
Authors: Díaz-Foncea Millán , Marcuello Carmen
Published: August 2018

Las organizaciones de la Economía Social en España representaban en 2013 al 13% del empleo y el 12% del PIB (CEPES-España). Asimismo, el papel que desempeña la Economía Social ha sido puesto en relevancia por diversas instituciones y estudios, pues suponen un modelo de organizaciones que, entre otras cuestiones, promueven la creación de proyectos empresariales colectivos con una mayor sostenibilidad y potencialidad que los modelos de autoempleo individual. Sin embargo, a pesar de todo ello, hay pocos estudios académicos o informes sectoriales que analicen el empleo en este sector, principalmente en el caso del empleo juvenil. Este estudio pretende cubrir este espacio en la literatura a través del análisis de los escasos datos disponibles para evidenciar los números y características del empleo juvenil en este sector. Los resultados presentados evidencian que el peso del empleo juvenil en la Economía Social es superior al de la economía a nivel general.
Una propuesta de intervención corresponsable sobre el acoso sexual laboral
Authors: Pérez Guardo Rocío , Rodríguez Sumaza Carmen
Published: August 2018

El acoso sexual laboral es una forma de violencia de género escasamente visibilizada pero presente aún en las organizaciones laborales, donde sigue generando altos niveles de sufrimiento, discriminación y desigualdad que afectan especialmente a las mujeres. Para poder abordarlo adecuadamente se requiere de un cambio organizacional pro equidad que parta del conocimiento de los significados subjetivos que los agentes implicados (personal en plantilla, representantes sindicales, empleadores/as, administración, etc.) atribuyen a dicha realidad. En este artículo se exponen los principales resultados de un estudio cualitativo sobre la percepción social del acoso sexual laboral que ponen en evidencia la existencia de numerosas estrategias de legitimación tendentes a minimizar la relevancia del problema, a culpabilizar a la persona acosada y a justificar la falta de apoyo del entorno y/o la implicación de la organización en su resolución. Entre las conclusiones se defiende el desarrollo de nuevos modelos de gestión empresarial en los que todos los agentes sociales posibles se impliquen de manera corresponsable en la prevención y control del fenómeno que nos ocupa.