bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La motricidad humana y la educación: una posibilidad de mejora en una sociedad deshumanizada
Authors: Fuenzalida Arroyo Patricio
Published: August 2019

À travers l’histoire, l’existence humaine a démontré l’existence de processus d’évolution de l’homme, de la préhistoire jusqu’à aujourd’hui, lesquels se trouvent reflétés dans chaque culture existante dans le monde. Cette idée d’évolution expérimente des changements constants avec le passage des années, depuis des réformes politiques, des styles de vie, des traditions culturelles jusqu’aux transformations législatives ou de nouvelles réformes éducationnelles, tout cela configuré depuis les nouvelles nécessités qui s’incorporent à la société. Nous vivons actuellement dans un monde comportant des caractéristiques qui n’ont probablement jamais été imaginées par la société d’il y a un demi-siècle. Dans une société technologique qui donne une plus grande emphase au développement professionnel, nous tendons à laisser en second plan des aspects humains essentiels pour vivre en communauté. Aujourd’hui, nous présentons la science de la motricité humaine et de l’éducation comme les agents qui visent à retrouver l’humain.
L'école comme outil de transformation sociale : de la domination vers une pédagogie pour la libération et la participation démocratique
Authors: Olivares Sepúlveda Carlos
Published: August 2019

L’école chilienne a limité sa possibilité transformatrice à cause de l’imposition du « pouvoir-savoir » de la part de l’idéologie dominante, c’est-à-dire ceux qui ont la connaissance et ce qui s’impose comme étant la vérité. Un contrôle est exercé sur les corps dociles au moyen de l’institution éducative, en reproduisant des valeurs et des normes au moyen d’un programme scolaire construit sur la politique du pouvoir du système actuel. L’école qui joue un rôle de socialisation se transforme en l’une des premières institutions bureaucratiques. Elle développe nos vies et laisse des conséquences, d’abord, chez les enseignants à cause du travail routinier qui les éloigne du travail libérateur et critique auquel aspirerait tout projet éducatif scolaire, ensuite chez les jeunes qui terminent par reproduire des attitudes peu critiques dans leurs trajectoires scolaires et par extension dans leurs vies futures. Freire, comme Giroux, projette des alternatives pour éveiller les consciences des oppressés et avec cette conscience, la libération, à travers de la pédagogie critique et du dialogue interculturel, en favorisant une vie démocratique et diverse, où nous serions les protagonistes de notre propre histoire.
La escuela como transformadora social: de la dominación hacia una pedagogía para la liberación y la participación democrática
Authors: Olivares Sepúlveda Carlos
Published: August 2019

L’école chilienne a limité sa possibilité transformatrice à cause de l’imposition du « pouvoir-savoir » de la part de l’idéologie dominante, c’est-à-dire ceux qui ont la connaissance et ce qui s’impose comme étant la vérité. Un contrôle est exercé sur les corps dociles au moyen de l’institution éducative, en reproduisant des valeurs et des normes au moyen d’un programme scolaire construit sur la politique du pouvoir du système actuel. L’école qui joue un rôle de socialisation se transforme en l’une des premières institutions bureaucratiques. Elle développe nos vies et laisse des conséquences, d’abord, chez les enseignants à cause du travail routinier qui les éloigne du travail libérateur et critique auquel aspirerait tout projet éducatif scolaire, ensuite chez les jeunes qui terminent par reproduire des attitudes peu critiques dans leurs trajectoires scolaires et par extension dans leurs vies futures. Freire, comme Giroux, projette des alternatives pour éveiller les consciences des oppressés et avec cette conscience, la libération, à travers de la pédagogie critique et du dialogue interculturel, en favorisant une vie démocratique et diverse, où nous serions les protagonistes de notre propre histoire.
Effects of physical training on sarcomere lengths and muscle-tendon interface of the cervical region in an experimental model of menopause
Authors: Jacob Carolina dos Santos , Rocha Lara Caetano , Neto Jurandyr Pimentel , Watanabe Ii-sei , Ciena Adriano Polican
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to describe the structural and ultrastructural aspects of the myotendinous junction (MTJ) and the proximal and distal sarcomeres of the sternomastoid of aged Wistar rats subjected to an experimental model of menopause and swimming training. A total of 20 female elderly rats were divided into the following four groups (n=5 in each group): sedentary/no-menopausal (SNM), trained/no-menopausal (TNM), sedentary/menopausal (SM), and trained/menopausal (TM). The MTJ samples were dissected and analyzed using transmission electron microscopy. We showed that the TNM Group rats exhibited changes in morphological characteristics as a consequence of physical exercise, which included an increase of 36.60% (P<0.001) in the evagination length of the MTJ and a reduction in the length of the distal (77.38%) (P<0.0001) and proximal (68.15%) (P<0.0001) sarcomeres. The SM Group exhibited a reduction of about 275.93% (P<0.001) in the muscle-tendon interface and in the lengths of distal sarcomeres (55.87%) (P<0.0001) compared with SNM Group. Our results suggest that the swimming training under experimental model of menopause promoted tissue reorganization and increased muscle-tendon interaction with a drastic development in the length and thickness of the sarcoplasmatic invaginations and evaginations. In addition, the sarcomeres exhibited different lengths and a reduction in both groups subjected to swimming training.
An investigation into the language and generalization abilities in the brain-injured and non brain-injured mentally retarded child
Authors: Oken Ilana
Published: August 2019

Five brain-injured children were compared with five non brain-injured children on the ITPA and a Generalization Test devised by the writer. These children were aged between 7 and 11 years, and their IQ scores were between 65 and 80. All the children were in special classes in government schools in Johannesburg, and were free of auditory, visual and physical disabilities. The results of this investigation were presented and discussed in terms of whether any difference in language ability of the subjects in this study was present, so as to see whether there was a "typical" profile for each diagnostic group. It was concluded that there are different types of peaks in the profiles of the two groups, and that both groups have poor generalization ability. A close inter-relationship between language and generalization abilities was considered to exist.
Editorial
Authors: Levin S. E.
Published: August 2019

No abstract available.
'n Elektromiografiese analise van die lipfunksies van die gesplete lip-geval
Authors: Uys Wilma
Published: August 2019

'n Elektromiografiese analise van die lipfunksies van 'n groep gesplete lipgevalle, is vergelyk met die van 'n groep sonder so 'n strukturele afwyking.Die toetsmateriaal het basiese bewegings van die lippe wat onderliggend is aan die bemeestering van labiale en labiodentale artikulasie, asook die uitvoering van sodanige artikulatoriese bewegings, beslaan.Nadat syferwaardes aan die kwalitatiewe evaluasie (volgens die skaal van Basmajian) geheg is, kon rekenkundige gemiddeldes verkry word. Hieruit blyk dit dat die eksperimentele groep minder spierspanning vertoon in die uitvoering van lipfunksies as die kontrole groep. Omdat daar geen grense vir normaliteit bestaan nie, kan die mate van spanning egter nie as afwykend  beskou word nie. Leidrade vir terapie kan uit die analise verkry word en ook 'n moontlike maatstaf  vir objektiewe beoordeling van die geslaagdheid van die operasietegnieke.
Language development of the cleft palate child
Authors: Horn Loretta
Published: August 2019

The ITPA was used in an assessment of the psycholinguistic abilities of three cleft palate children and three matched normal children, of ages ranging from 48 months to 66 months. The data obtained revealed that the cleft palate children manifested a general depression in those areas sampled by the ITPA, in particular in areas testing expressive abilities.A transformational analysis of the language samples of the cleft palate children showed the relative immaturity of the syntactic structures used by these children.In spite of the limitations of this study, there was a clear indication of a language retardation in the cleft palate group. Several factors present in the early development of cleft palate children could adversely affect the acquisition of language skills. The implications of these findings for speech therapy are important.
Fluency and aphasia: A pragmatic reconsideration
Authors: Penn Claire
Published: August 2019

The fluency behaviour of fourteen aphasic patients was investigated within a communicative framework. As part of an overall pragmatic analysis, judges were required to rate the subjects' fluency behaviour as to their appropriateness within the context of interactive discourse. Results indicated differences between subjects which related consistently neither to the classificatory type of aphasia nor to severity. Implications regarding the characterisation of fluency and its utility as a classifcatory concept are discussed.
Hoë frekwensie-timpanometrie
Authors: Hay Izak S.
Published: August 2019

Die doel van die studie was om vas te stel of hoë frekwensie (600Hz) timpanometrie van meer diagnosties waarde as lae frekwensie (220Hz) timpanometrie is. As kontrolegroep is 96 normale ore gebruik. As eksperimentele groep is 70 ore met 'n verskeidenheid van middeloorpatologieë gebruik. Die resultate dui daarop dat hoë frekwensie-timpatanometrie slegs van meer diagnogstiewe waarde is, wanneer daar sprake van hiper-beweeglike middeloorstelsel is soos bv. by dislokasie van die ossikels. Die voorkoms van timpanogramme met negatiewe piekwaarrdes by hoë frekwensie-timpanometrie blyk van groot waarde te wees by die onderskeiding van 'n dislokasie en 'n slap oordrom. Die rigting van drukverandering het geen diagnostiese waarde getoon nie.
Die stemaanvangstyd van apraktiese en disartriese sprekers
Authors: Gillmer Erentia , Merwe Anita Van der
Published: August 2019

Die aard van die neuromotoriese disfunksie wat in verbale apraksie en verworwe disartrie voorkom word tans in diepte ontleed. 'n Belangrike vraag wat beantwoord moet word, is wat die verskil tussen hierdie twee tipes spraakprobleme is. In hierdie studie word die fonetiese parameter, stemaanvangstyd (SAT) ondersoek. Die doel is om te bepaal of kenmerkende afwykings in die SAT by verbale apraksie en verworwe disartrie voorkom. By laasgenoemde is ataktiese en hipokinetiese disartrie ingesluit. Afwykende stemaanvangstye is by die ataktiese en apraktiese groepe gevind. Die meeste variasie in die gemete tydsintervalle is by die groep met ataktiese disartrie opgemerk. Stemhebbende klanke is deur beide groepe met stemlose klanke vervang. Onderbrekings in die stempulserings is by die apraktiese sprekers waargeneem. Daar is gevind dat daar verskille in SAT by die apraktiese en disartriese sprekers voorkom. Die verskille was egter klein en onkonstant.
Editorial
Authors: Labuscagne J. H.
Published: August 2019

No abstract available.
The role of MRI in bone marrow imaging
Authors: Reiser Maximilian F.
Published: August 2019

No abstract available.
Imaging the liver: Selected topics
Authors: Schwartz Lawrence H.
Published: August 2019

No abstract available.
Editorial
Authors: Du Toit Andrew
Published: August 2019

No abstract available.
Minimising radiation dose using pulsed digital fluoroscopy in the investigation of children
Authors: Andronikou Savvas , Mezzabotta Marisa
Published: August 2019

Pulsed fluoroscopy is considered a requisite for paediatric fluoroscopy. The goal of paediatric fluoroscopic studies is to produce interpretable images (to answer a specific question) at the lowest possible radiation exposure. Digital pulsed fluoroscopy has the advantage of reducing patient dose while yielding diagnostic images. The radiologist is responsible for choosing the appropriate pulse setting and deciding between storing the image as a 'picture-grab' or a true 'spot-film'. We present a simple description of this technology highlighting the advantages and disadvantages. We also describe in detail our recommended protocol for performing a micturating cystourethrogram and a barium swallow/meal in children.
Advantages of lateral BMD DEXA measurement and concomitant lateral spinal imaging at the point of service over conventional PA measurement in the estimation of BMD
Authors: Sneider Paul
Published: August 2019

This study examined 144 sequentially selected female patients with a mean age of 53.4 years. The purpose was to assess whether instant vertebral assessment (IVA) and lateral DEXA bone mineral density (BMD) measurement in the lumbar spine would render a significant difference in the assessment of bone loss compared with the older conventional PA measurement only. Thirty-five per cent of our patients' bone loss had to be upgraded because of the lower BMDs found on lateral DEXA scanning of the lumbar spine than was shown on PADEXA studies. Using the Genant classification, asymptomatic vertebral fractures were found in 10% of osteopaenic patients and in 26% who had osteoporosis with lateral IVA assessment. It was therefore concluded that both of these modalities were useful and made a greater contribution in the assessment of bone density loss, therefore enabling a more appropriate treatment protocol to be instituted and also improving patient compliance. The latter occurred because patients would rather accept a visual image of their illness such as a spine fracture or BMD value visually displayed on a graph than a verbal explanation for their asymptomatic but serious disease.
Percutaneous vertebroplasty
Authors: Van der Merwe Ivann F.
Published: August 2019

Percutaneous vertebroplasty is a safe and successful method for the treatment of vertebral lesions due to osteoporotic fractures, metastatic lesions or haemangiomas. The procedure involves the percutaneous injection of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) into a pathological vertebral body. The technique is described in detail together with potential complications. Strict adherence to selection criteria, a multidisciplinary approach and the need for excellent imaging equipment are stressed.
The patient with head injury and a Glasgow coma score of 15: Is a brain CT examination indicated?
Authors: Benade S. L. , Scher A. T.
Published: August 2019

The decision as to whether to perform a CT examination of the brain in patients with a Glasgow coma score of 15 after injury is often difficult, given the limited CT scanning facilities available in state hospitals. A retrospective evaluation of 100 consecutive head-injury patients presenting with a Glasgow coma score of 15 at Tygerberg Hospital was therefore carried out. In a surprisingly high number of patients (50%) abnormal findings due to the injury were detected. Analysis of the clinical history parameters did not demonstrate a significant association with abnormal CT findings. It is therefore concluded that brain CT examination in patients with a Glasgow coma score of 15 is justified and that the Glasgow coma scale is a poor predictor of intracranial injury.
Incidental diagnosis of a gastric mass on chest radiographs
Authors: Gelderen W. F.C.
Published: August 2019

Careful inspection of the infradiaphragmatic area on chest radiographs may lead to diagnosis of different conditions such as gastric fundal masses, sub-diaphragmatic free air, subphrenic abscess, bowel obstruction, etc. Case histories are presented for 4 patients in whom the diagnosis of a gastric tumour was made on chest X-ray. The importance of including the infradiaphragmatic area as a review area of the chest X-ray is emphasised.
Jejuno-ileal diverticulitis and renal failure
Authors: Moodley M. S. , Singh B. , Vawda F. , Maharaj J.
Published: August 2019

No abstract available.
Acute calcific discitis or symptomatic calcified schmorl's node of the upper thoracic spine in an adult: A case report and literature review
Authors: Iampreechakul Prasert , Lertbutsayanukul Punjama , Suanprasert Narupat
Published: August 2019

We describe a patient with acute calcific discitis following symptomatic Schmorl's node (SN) of upper thoracic spine. A 28-year-old female suffered from sudden severe pain in mid-thoracic, left scapular area, radiating to her chest. Plain radiography of the thoracic spine showed calcification in T3–4 intervertebral disc space. Computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine demonstrated calcification of the T3–T4 nucleus pulposus, migrating into the inferior of T3 vertebral body with reactive bone marrow edema. By conservative treatment with multidrug therapy, the pain subsided and disappeared in 3 months. Follow-up CT scan and MRI of the thoracic spine confirmed complete resolution of calcified SN and reactive bone marrow edema.
Efficacy of computed tomography perfusion – Alberta stroke program early computed tomography score for identifying patients with anterior circulation acute ischemic stroke that would benefit from endovascular treatment
Authors: Songsaeng Dittapong , Khamduang Thewaporn , Tarathipayakul Thipthara , Boonma Chulaluck , Krings Timo
Published: August 2019

Background: The identification of criteria that improves the selection of ischemic stroke patients most suitable for mechanical thrombectomy (MT) will improve clinical outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify the computed tomography (CT) imaging parameter that best predicts patients who will benefit from endovascular treatment among patients with anterior circulation ischemic stroke. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in patients with acute middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke with/without internal carotid artery occlusion who underwent successful MT at Siriraj Hospital from November 2009 to October 2016. Evaluated parameters were compared between those with and without a favorable outcome. Results: Forty-four consecutive patients with acute MCA occlusion were included, and 61.4% had unfavorable clinical outcome. Regarding CT perfusion – Alberta stroke program early CT score (CTP-ASPECTS) at the 50% cut point, patients with favorable outcome had higher Cerebral blood volume-ASPECTS (CBV-ASPECTS) and mean transit time-ASPECTS (MTT-ASPECTS) than those with unfavorable outcome. For CTP-ASPECTS at the 75% cut point, patients with favorable outcome had higher CBV-ASPECTS, cerebral blood flow-ASPECTS, and MTT-ASPECTS than those with unfavorable outcome. Conclusions: CTP-ASPECTS at the 50% and 75% cut points of abnormality could not predict the clinical outcome of anterior ischemic stroke after thrombectomy. Of the ASPECTS evaluated in this study, MTT-ASPECTS at the 75% cut point was the most predictive parameter. Older age was associated with unfavorable outcome after thrombectomy.
Cavernous malformation of a thoracic spinal nerve root: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Vicenty Juan , Fernandez-de Thomas Ricardo , Estronza Samuel , Mayol-Del Valle Miguel , Pastrana Emil
Published: August 2019

Intradural extramedullary spinal cavernous malformations (CMs) remain the least common variant of these lesions and can originate from the inner surface of the dura mater, the pial surface of the spinal cord, and the blood vessels in the spinal nerves. Root-based-only extramedullary CMs are very rare in the thoracic region with only four cases reported. We present a case of 56-year-old male with 1-year progression of lower extremities weakness. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a hyperintense lesion in the upper thoracic region. Surgical exploration revealed a CM with origin in the second thoracic nerve root with gross total resection. Histopathological examination confirmed a CM. The patient had complete recovery of neurological function at 3 months interval. Intradural extramedullary CM is extremely rare entity that must be considered in the differential diagnosis of intradural extramedullary lesions. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice to prevent further neurological damage.
Results of a preventive rebleeding protocol in patients with ruptured cerebral aneurysm: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Duangthongphon Pichayen , Souwong Bunika , Munkong Waranon , Kitkhuandee Amnat
Published: August 2019

Objective: In 2015, a protocol to prevent rebleeding was implemented to improve the outcome of patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysm. We performed a single-center retrospective analysis to compare the outcomes of pre/post using protocol. Methodology: Over a 3-year period, 208 patients with ruptured cerebral aneurysm were treated at our institution. The protocol for preventing rebleeding was initiated in 2015. We compared the two cohorts between the group of patients before initiating the protocol (n = 104) and after initiating the protocol (n = 104). We analyzed the protocol for preventing rebleeding which consisted of absolute bed rest, adequate pain control, avoiding stimuli (R), keeping euvolemia (E), preoperative systolic blood pressure <160 mmHg and within 140–180 mmHg after definite treatment (S), a short course (<72 h) of intravenous transaminic acid, and aneurysm treatment as early as possible (T). Outcomes are presented as in-hospital rebleeding, delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), and proportion of unfavorable outcomes (score of 4–6 on a modified Rankin scale at 6 and 12 months). Results: Postprotocol, there was a reduction in the incidence of in-hospital rebleeding from 6.7% to 2.8% (P = 0.20, odds ratio [OR] = 0.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.10–1.63) and in the proportion of patients who presented with good WFNS grades (1–3) with unfavorable clinical outcomes at 12 months from 27.0% to 12.8% (P = 0.03, OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.17–0.95). The DCI experienced a significant reduction from 44.2% to 7.7% (P < 0.001, OR = 0.10, 95% CI = 0.04–0.23), and their 180-day mortality rate in good WFNS grades patients decreased from 16.3% to 8.8% (hazard ratio 0.80, 95% CI = 0.28–2.28). Conclusion: Ruptured cerebral aneurysm patients benefit from this protocol due to its ability to reduce the incidence of DCI and reduce unfavorable outcome on good WFNS grade patients.
Tumors of the orbit: Case report and review of surgical corridors and current options
Authors: Kannan Satish , Hasegawa Mitsuhiro , Yamada Yasuhiro , Kawase Tsukasa , Kato Yoko
Published: August 2019

Tumors that involve the orbit can be classified into two major groups: primary tumors of the orbit and tumors that extend into the orbit from other sites. The most frequent primary orbital lesions in adults include cavernous hemangiomas, lymphoid tumors, and meningiomas. The most common tumors that extend into the orbit are meningiomas, followed by sinonasal carcinomas. In this article, we report a case of intraconal orbital lesion operated at our center and a review of the surgical approaches to the orbit.
Onyx embolization of distal middle cerebral artery aneurysm in a patient with nontraumatic subdural hematoma
Authors: Fatima Nida , Al Sulaiti Ghanem , Al Rumaihi Ghaya
Published: August 2019

Distal cortical middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysm is a rare entity. Despite the challenging procedure, the role of endovascular treatment is emerging due to its safety and efficacy in obliterating the microaneurysm. We report a 25-year-old male, who presented with a history of dizziness and headache for almost 2 weeks. Computed tomography scan showed a right front parietal subdural hematoma (SDH). We could not identify any underlying defining etiology of SDH neither head injury nor coagulopathy disorder. Therefore, diagnostic cerebral angiogram was performed, which showed a microaneurysm in the distal right MCA cortical branch. Hence, complete obliteration of this microaneurysm was performed using Onyx for endovascular embolization. Therefore, this case report demonstrates the efficacy of this modality in the treatment of microaneurysms with SDH.
Penetrating injury of the eye causing bilateral visual loss: An eye opener!
Authors: Singh Mukesh , Deora Harsh , Tripathi Manjul , Mohindra Sandeep , Batish Aman
Published: August 2019

Penetrating orbitocranial injuries are often serious and life-threatening trauma. A thorough knowledge of the mechanism of injury, direction of the projectile object, low index of suspicion, appropriate radiological investigations, medical management, and timely surgical intervention are necessary for the prevention of any serious complication. The penetrating objects are usually lodged at the site of entry with very less chances of intracranial migration. Authors here describe their experience in the management of such an injury with a discussion of pitfalls in surgical treatment.
Thoracic spinal intramedullary arachnoid cyst presented with myelopathy with marked postoperative improvement: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Shaaban Ahmed , Abdelrahman Amrou , Jarir Raed , Al-Bozom Issam , Raza Ali
Published: August 2019

Intramedullary spinal cord arachnoid cysts are rare. So, we present an interesting case of adult male presented with myelopathic symptoms and signs. Further investigations revealed a finding of thoracic intramedullary cystic lesion, found postoperatively to be an arachnoid cyst. Patient improved remarkably postoperative and during follow up period.
Intracranial chondroma of the falx cerebri: A rare case report with review of literature
Authors: Agrawal Rati , Saroha Arun
Published: August 2019

Intracranial chondromas are extremely rare, benign slow-growing cartilaginous tumors mostly originating from embryonic rests at sphenoethmoidal region and sometimes can originate from the falx, convexity dura, the tentorium, the choroid plexus, or the brain parenchyma. In this article, we present a 22-year-old woman with a chondroma of dural origin. The clinical, radiological, and histopathological findings along with the operative findings and postoperative course are described as well as the pertinent literature regarding intracranial chondromas is reviewed.
Contralateral transcondylar fossa approach with bilateral V3 segment exposure for clipping of vertebral artery aneurysm which deviates across midline: A case report and review article
Authors: Sriamornrattanakul Kitiporn , Akharathammachote Nasaeng , Wongsuriyanan Somkiat , Mongkolratnan Atithep
Published: August 2019

This article reports a patient with unruptured right vertebral artery aneurysm which deviates across the midline to the left side. The contralateral (left) transcondylar fossa approach with bilateral V3 exposure is used for aneurysm clipping. The literature related to this technique is also reviewed.
Delay posttraumatic paradoxical cerebrospinal fluid leak with recurrent meningitis
Authors: Sharifi Guive , Mousavinejad Seyed , Bahrami-Motlagh Hooman , Eftekharian Ali , Samadian Mohammad , Ebrahimzadeh Kaveh , Rezaei Omidvar
Published: August 2019

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea complicates 2% of all head traumas, and 12%–30% of all basilar skull fractures. Posttraumatic CSF rhinorrhea usually occurs within the first 48 h, and majority of them occur in the first 3 months, whereas delayed CSF leak beyond 3 months is rare. On the other hand, CSF usually leaks through dural tearing associated with fracture of the anterior skull base. CSF leak through fractures of middle cranial fossa to the nose through the eustachian tube is very rare. We present a 52-year-old woman with delayed posttraumatic paradoxical CSF rhinorrhea and recurrent meningitis.
Iatrogenic seizures during intraoperative transcranial motor-evoked potential monitoring
Authors: Sokhal Suman , Goyal Keshav , Sokhal Navdeep , Kumar Niraj , Kedia Shweta
Published: August 2019

Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) is an important tool for early detection of inadvertent damage and guide intra-operative manipulation during complex neurosurgical procedures. However trans-cranial stimulation can evoke an iatrogenic seizure and it remains a real concern while using Tc-MEP. We report a case of intra-operative seizure during transcranial electrical stimulation for motor evoked potential monitoring in a patient without seizure disorder, who underwent surgery for thoracic intra-medullary tumor excision.
Seroepidemiology of Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Native and Immigrant Pregnant Women: A 20-Year Retrospective Study in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Ching-Chiang , Shih Ching-Tang , Lee Chien-Hung , Ku Ming-Kun , Huang Yeou-Lih
Published: August 2019

Universal immunoprophylaxis against hepatitis B virus (HBV) is regarded as a key element to prevent perinatal HBV infection. The aim of the present study was to investigate the changes in the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)- and hepatitis B envelope antigen (HBeAg)-positive rates in native and immigrant pregnant women, to realize the impact of immigrants, and to identify any weaknesses 30 years after the implementation of hepatitis B vaccination in Taiwan. A total of 20,020 test results of HBsAg and HBeAg in pregnant women—2,915 (14.6%) immigrant women and 17,105 native Taiwanese—from 1996 to 2015 were analyzed for changes during this 20-year retrospective cohort study. Native Taiwanese have a higher HBsAg-positive rate than immigrant women (P < 0.001). However, the HBsAg-positive rates decreased by 0.6% per year among native women, but did not decrease significantly (only by 0.18% per year) among immigrant women. The overall HBsAg-positive rate remained at high levels, 4.8% in the year 2015. The HBeAg-positive rate decreased significantly, by 0.22% per year, in the total women as well as by 0.23% per year in the native women (all P < 0.001); by contrast, the HBeAg-positive rate in immigrants decreased at a slower rate (0.10% per year), without a significant decreasing trend (P = 0.300). Higher HBeAg (+)/HBsAg (+) rate was found for the immigrants than for the native women (P < 0.001). To quickly and effectively lower the risk of vertical transmission, new approaches combined with vaccination may be needed in the post-immunization era.
Corrosion Behavior of Active-Screen Plasma Nitrided 17-4 PH (H1150D) Steel in H2S/CO2-Containing Environments
Authors: Della Roverys Coseglio Mario Sergio , Li Xiaoying , Dong Hanshan , Connolly Brian J. , Dent Phil , Fowler Chris
Published: August 2019

The presence of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in typical oilfield environments promotes hydrogen absorption and subsequent failure of high-strength steels by sulfide stress cracking (SSC). Plasma nitriding is as a potential method to increase the resistance of the 17-4 PH to SSC, although further investigation is required to evaluate the corrosion resistance of the modified layer when it is exposed to H2S-containing environments. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the corrosion resistance of the 17-4 PH in typical oilfield environment. Samples were plasma nitrided at low (420°C) and high (500°C) temperatures and immersed in produced water with mixed H2S and CO2. The electrochemical data and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs showed that there were no detrimental effects on the corrosion resistance when plasma nitriding was performed at low temperature (420°C), whereas the integrity of the modified layer was compromised when an elevated temperature (500°C) was applied. The enhanced resistance to localized corrosion of the nitride case obtained after the low-temperature surface modification was attributed to the formation of a compound layer of mixed M4N/M2-3N, the inner section being more corrosion resistant than the outer part, as revealed by SEM micrographs.
Transição paradigmática e meio ambiente: posição de dois grupos etários
Authors: Kuhnen Ariane , Felippe Maíra Longhinotti , Morais Daniela Xavier
Published: August 2019

O modo como as pessoas percebem, representam e valorizam o meio ambiente permite compreender comportamentos que o afetam. Assim, buscamos caracterizar as representações sociais da natureza, do meio ambiente e da água, e as crenças ambientais de 133 jovens e 100 adultos maduros. Os dados dos dois grupos etários foram comparados a fim de se poder vislumbrar a evolução do pensamento ecológico entre gerações. Utilizando a Escala NEP, encontramos um sistema de crenças biocêntrico para ambos os grupos etários, não tendo sido observada diferença estatisticamente significativa entre eles. As representações sociais, obtidas através de questionário de evocações livres, também se apresentaram similares nos dois grupos. Verificamos, todavia, que a identificação ao paradigma biocêntrico não foi confirmada pelo estudo das representações sociais, que apontou tanto elementos biocêntricos como antropocêntricos. Tais contradições sugerem um processo gradual de transição de paradigmas, em que ambas as visões de mundo coexistem.
Enhancing Surveillance - Interconnectedness and Clusters
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

This paper and the companion background paperpresent a simple conceptual framework to better understand cross-border trade and financial interconnectedness. Countries are grouped together into “clusters” on the basis of having relatively tight trade and financial connections (e.g., Asian supply chain). Clusters are connected to one another through “gatekeepers” (e.g., Austria is a gatekeeper to the Central and Eastern Europe, and Sweden to the Baltics), and countries that are central to the whole network are in the “core” (the systemic-5). By mapping this architecture of cross-border trade and financial interconnectedness, the papers provide—at a glance—an easy way to comprehend the direct and indirect linkages of countries. The papers suggest that gatekeepers in particular can play a role in dampening or amplifying and propagating shocks, and this role depends on the economic context and policy space.
Eighth Review of the Fund’s Data Standard Initiatives
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

This paper reports on developments in the Data Standards Initiatives since the Seventh Review of the Fund’s Data Standards Initiatives (December 2008), and presents proposals for further enhancing the SDDS, and for data categories for the new higher tier of the data standards, the SDDS Plus. The SDDS Plus is primarily intended for subscribers to the SDDS with systemically important financial sectors while contributing to address further the data gaps revealed in the global financial crisis. This new tier is designed to enhance and supplement the Fund’s Data Standards Initiatives and not to replace the SDDS.
Safeguards Assessments Policy - External Expert Panel's Advisory Report
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

This report by the external expert panel (“the panel”) examines the effectiveness and appropriateness of the safeguards assessments policy in the five years since its last review in 2010. In addition to expressing an opinion on the effectiveness and appropriateness of the safeguards assessment policy, the panel also makes recommendations to the Executive Board for its consideration to improve and optimize the benefits to be garnered from the safeguards assessment policy. The panel’s opinion is based on (i) consultations with key stakeholders, including central bank authorities, IMF Executive Directors’ offices, Fund and World Bank staff; (ii) examination of safeguards assessment and other Fund-specific documents; and (iii) study of international reference materials.
Review of the Method of Valuation of the SDR - Initial Considerations
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

This paper lays out initial considerations for the quinquennial review of the method of valuation of the Special Drawing Right (SDR) currency basket. As in previous reviews, a key objective is to enhance the attractiveness of the SDR as an international reserve asset. In that context, the review will assess the currencies for SDR basket inclusion, currency weights, and the SDR interest rate basket.

The paper takes as a starting point the conclusions of the last review in 2010 and the subsequent Board discussion of currency selection criteria in 2011. At the time of the last review, China met the gateway export criterion but the renminbi (RMB) was not included in the SDR basket as it was not judged to be freely usable, the second currency selection criterion. In light of the Board’s broad support in 2011 for the existing legal framework, and since China continues to meet the export criterion, this paper discusses building blocks relevant for a future determination on whether to include the RMB in the basket under the existing criteria.
Financing for Development - Enhancing the Financial Safety Net for Developing Countries
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

Access to Fund financial resources provides a financial safety net to help countries manage adverse shocks, acting as a potential supplement to foreign reserves when there is a balance of payments need. Such support is especially important to developing countries with limited capacity to borrow in domestic or foreign markets.

This paper proposes a set of measures that would expand access to Fund resources for developing countries, as one of the initiatives the Fund is undertaking as part of the wider effort of the international community to support countries in pursuing the post- 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Statement by the Managing Director on the Work Program of the Executive Board - Executive Board Meeting, June 3, 2015
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

The Managing Director’s Global Policy Agenda (GPA) presented to the IMFC in April identified a range of actions needed to bolster today’s actual and tomorrow’s potential output, diminish risks, and confront emerging global challenges. These actions included calibrating fiscal adjustment to economic conditions while establishing credible long-term fiscal frameworks and implementing growth-friendly fiscal policies, improving monetary policy effectiveness while containing excessive financial risk-taking, and accelerating structural reforms to raise growth potential and ensure inclusiveness. The GPA also outlined how the Fund would support the membership through assessments and policy advice provided in the context of multilateral and bilateral surveillance, financial support, and capacity building.

This document translates the policy priorities laid out in the GPA and the IMFC communiqué into a work agenda for the Executive Board over the next 12 months. In particular, the Board will be engaged on several issues of multilateral scope, including quota reform and resources, the SDR basket review, challenges facing the international monetary system, and the post-2015 global development agenda. The work program also includes several items from the action plan of the 2014 Triennial Surveillance Review (TSR).
Flexible Credit Line--Operational Guidance Note
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

The Flexible Credit Line (FCL) was introduced as part of a package of reforms to the Fund’s lending facilities in March 2009 and its design was further refined in August 2010 and in the 2014 Review of the policy. The following provides operational guidance and further background information on the FCL. SPR (the Emerging Markets Division), FIN, and LEG stand ready to clarify any further questions departments may have on the FCL or other aspects of the reforms to lending and conditionality.
The Fund's Income Position For FY 2016
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

This paper reports the Fund’s income position for FY 2016 following the closing of the Fund’s accounts for the financial year and completion of the external audit. FY 2016 net income, including income from surcharges, was unchanged from the amount of SDR 998 million projected in April.

GRA net income for FY 2016 of about SDR 1 billion has been placed to the Fund’s reserves, further strengthening the Fund’s precautionary balances, which reached SDR 15.2 billion at the end of FY 2016.

Following the completion of the Executive Board’s review of the investment strategy for the Fixed-Income Subaccount and consistent with the discussions in April, currencies totaling about SDR 3.7 billion will be transferred to the Investment Account during September and October 2016. This comprises currencies equivalent to the net income retained in the GRA in FY 2014 (SDR 1.2 billion) and FY 2015 (SDR 1.5 billion), together with the currencies equivalent to the FY 2016 GRA net income of about SDR 1 billion.
Statement by the Managing Director on the Independent Evaluation Office’s Report on the IMF and the Crises in Greece, Ireland, and Portugal - An Evaluation by the Independent Evaluation Office - Executive Board Meeting - July 19, 2016
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

I welcome the report of the Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) on the Euro Area crisis programs. Their work provides an independent and in-depth account, which I have no doubt will make an important contribution to understanding the Fund’s approach to the crisis. As I have emphasized repeatedly, the IEO plays a vital role in enhancing the learning culture within the Fund, strengthening the Fund's external credibility, and supporting the Executive Board's institutional governance and oversight responsibilities.
The Managing Director's Global Policy Agenda
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

Full text also available in: Arabic, Chinese, French, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish.

The global economy is expanding moderately but the outlook has weakened further since October, and risks have increased. The global economy has been impaired from growth that has been too slow for too long, and at this rate a sustained recovery—with the expected higher living standards, lower unemployment and declining debt levels—may not be delivered. However, some recent improvement in data releases, somewhat firmer oil prices, reduced pressures on outflows from China, and actions by major central banks have all contributed to improving sentiment.
Building on these recent positive developments, the global economy can get back on a stronger and safer track, but the current policy response will need to go further. Countries must reinforce their commitment to durable global growth and employ a more potent policy mix. A three-pronged approach with monetary, fiscal, and structural actions can work as a virtuous trinity, lifting actual and potential growth, averting recession risks, and enhancing financial stability. The IMF will support this commitment by helping countries identify space, craft appropriate policies, and build capacity to deliver on these policies; providing a strong financial backstop for policy implementation; and assisting members with new challenges.
Extension of the Periods for Payment of Quota Increases Under the Fourteenth General Review of Quotas and the 2008 Reform
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

This paper proposes a further 34-day extension of the period for payment of quota increases under the Fourteenth General Review of Quotas (“Fourteenth Review”), and an extension for the payment of the quota increases under the 2008 Reform, through June 30, 2016.

For the Fourteenth Review, under Board of Governors Resolution No. 66-2, each member shall pay to the Fund the increase in its quota within 30 days after the later of (a) the date on which it notifies the Fund of its consent, or (b) the date on which all of the general effectiveness conditions for the quota increases under the Fourteenth Review are met, provided that the Executive Board may extend the payment period as it may determine. The initial 30-day period for payments has been extended three times, most recently through May 27, 2016. Good progress is being made in implementing the quota payments. However, some members have indicated that they require additional time to complete internal procedures for the payment of quota increases. Staff is following up with the authorities in each of these cases to facilitate timely arrangements for payments.
Methodological Note on EBA-Lite
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

The Fund has taken important steps to enhance its external sector assessments since the launch of the External Balance Assessment (EBA) methodology and the External Sector Report (ESR) in 2012, which provides a multilaterally consistent assessment of the largest economies’ external sector positions and policies. With scope for strengthening external sector assessments of non-EBA countries, the 2014 Triennial Surveillance Review (TSR) called for the application of EBA’s conceptual innovations to a broader set of countries. Following the 2014 TSR, the Managing Director’s Action Plan proposed developing EBA-lite to extend the EBA methodology to a broader group of countries where adequate data is available. In the fall of 2014, the launch of the EBA-lite methodology for current account assessments provided the first extension of EBA approach for non-EBA countries. In summer 2015, the real exchange rate index model and the external sustainability approach were added to the EBA-lite framework.

This note serves as a reference for the EBA-lite methodology. It provides: (i) motivations for developing EBA-lite and guidance for its use; (ii) technical explanations of all three EBA-lite approaches; and (iii) suggestions on how to articulate staff assessments of the external sector informed by model results.
Adequacy of the Global Financial Safety Net—Considerations for Fund Toolkit Reform
Authors:   International Monetary Fund
Published: August 2019

liquidity in the face of increased vulnerabilities calls for enhancing the liquidity support provided through the global financial safety net (GFSN). The global economy is experiencing a period of protracted uncertainty, marked by frequent episodes of volatility. Demand for liquidity has intensified, in particular from emerging markets, which are experiencing a build-up of vulnerabilities and the depletion of their fiscal buffers. The enhanced GFSN meets only partially this higher demand for liquidity. The IMFC and G20 have called on the Fund to further strengthen the safety net.

The uneven use of the Fund’s toolkit for crisis prevention suggests the need to reconsider its design. Despite a major overhaul of the Fund’s lending instruments available for precautionary financing, only a modest number of countries have used them. In particular, the lack of access to a liquidity backstop for members with strong policies—similar to the standing bilateral swap arrangements (BSAs) among central banks—limits the availability of Fund support over the whole duration of the shock during protracted periods of global uncertainty. Moreover, the need to resort to Fund financing still carries a high political cost (stigma) for some members.

To enhance further the Fund’s toolkit for crisis prevention, consideration could be given to revisiting the existing toolkit and introducing new instruments. The toolkit could thus be enhanced by: establishing a new facility for precautionary financing that would provide a "standing" liquidity backstop to members with strong fundamentals and policies for use when hit by liquidity shocks; and adjusting the existing toolkit to maintain cohesion. Any change to the Fund toolkit would need to take into account the tradeoffs between reducing stigma and containing moral hazard, while simultaneously safeguarding Fund resources.

A Fund policy monitoring instrument could improve the cohesion of the global safety net. As the GFSN has expanded and become more multi-layered, there is a need to improve cooperation across the different layers to unlock financing and signal commitment to reforms. Creating a policy monitoring instrument that is available to all Fund members could help in this regard.

Next steps . In light of Directors’ views on these points, staff could come back with subsequent papers that lay out specific and detailed proposals for reforming the lending toolkit. While these papers focus on the GRA lending toolkit, a separate forthcoming paper will assess some aspects of the concessional lending toolkit.