bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Algorithms for mapping kidney tissue oxygenation during normothermic machine perfusion using hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Markgraf Wenke , Feistel Philipp , Thiele Christine , Malberg Hagen
Published: September 2018

The lack of donor grafts is a severe problem in transplantation medicine. Hence, the improved preservation of existing and the usage of organs that were deemed untransplantable is as urgent as ever. The development of novel preservation techniques has come into focus. A promising alternative to traditional cold storage is normothermic machine perfusion (NMP), which provides the benefit of improving the organs’ viability and of assessing the organs’ status under physiological conditions. For this purpose, methods for evaluating organ parameters have yet to be developed. In a previous study, we determined the tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) of kidneys during NMP with hyperspectral imaging (HSI) based on a discrete wavelength (DW) algorithm. The aim of the current study was to identify a more accurate algorithm for StO2calculation. A literature search revealed three candidates to test: a DW algorithm and two full spectral algorithms – area under a curve and partial least square regression (PLSR). After obtaining suitable calibration data to train each algorithm, they were evaluated during NMP. The wavelength range from 590 to 800 nm was found to be appropriate for analyzing StO2of kidneys during NMP. The PLSR method shows good results in analyzing the tissues’ oxygen status in perfusion experiments.
Awheel Along Europe’s Rivers: Geoarchaeological Trails for Cycling Geotourists
Authors: Hose Thomas A.
Published: September 2018

This review study presents an overview of the potential for the development of geoarchaeological trails for leisure cyclists in Europe. It initially defines and discusses the underpinning key concepts and then examines the nature and main needs of leisure cyclists. It considers and recognises appropriate geo-interpretative themes, of geological/geomorphological and archaeological/historical interest, to employ in developing the trails. Noting that river valleys have long been natural route-ways for human expansion into Europe (as exemplified by the ‘Stone Age’ and the Roman Empire), and that many of today’s major cycle trails are beside rivers with loess deposits, a geoarchaeological geotourism strategy is considered in relation to them. Case studies of specific sites, from central southern England, the Middle Danube and Middle Rhine valleys, outline the current provision and the basis of the proposed trails. Finally, a common relatively low-cost, mixed media, geo-interpretative and promotional approach could generate the impetus to further develop the strategy is suggested.
Copper-catalyzed synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted quinazolin-4(3H)-ones from benzyl-substituted anthranilamides
Authors: Foroumadi Parham , Lotfi Vahid , Mahdavi Mohammad , Moghimi Setareh , Soheilizad Mehdi , Kianmehr Ebrahim , Firoozpour Loghman , Asadipour Ali , Foroumadi Alireza
Published: September 2018

An efficient, practical approach to the copper-catalyzed synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted quinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives is described. The preparation involves treatment of benzyl amines with benzyl anthranilamides in the presence of Cu(OAc)2 and tetra-n-butylammonium bromide (TBAB).
The influence of thyroid disorders on bone density and biochemical markers of bone metabolism
Authors: Tsevis Konstantinos , Trakakis Eftihios , Pergialiotis Vasilios , Alhazidou Eleni , Peppa Melpomeni , Chrelias Charalampos , Papantoniou Nikolaos , Panagopoulos Periklis
Published: September 2018

Background

Thyroid dysfunction, predominantly hyperthyroidism, has been previously linked to impaired bone mass density (BMD) and increased risk of fractures. On the other hand, data in the field of hypothyroidism (HT) are missing. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the impact of thyroid disorders on bone density serum and urine calcium (Ca) and phosphate (P) as well as serum osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase and urine hydroxyproline in a series of post-menopausal women.

Materials and methods

The study was conducted in the Reproductive Endocrinology Outpatient Clinic of our hospital. A consecutive series of post-menopausal women was included, after excluding patients under hormone treatment (including levothyroxine supplementation) and those who received raloxifene, tamoxifen or tibolone during the study period as well as those who received treatment during the previous 12 months were excluded from the present study.

Results

Overall, 188 women were included in the present study. Among them, 143 women had normal thyroid function, 32 women had hyperthyroidism and 13 women had HT. Correlation of thyroid function indices with osteoporosis indices revealed statistically significant correlations between thyroxine (T4) and free triiodothyronine (T3) with T-, Z-scores and BMD. Logistic regression analysis concerning the impact of HT and hyperthyroidism on T-score, Z-score and bone mass density revealed that both pathological entities negatively affect bone health (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The findings of our study suggest that not only hyperthyroidism, but also HT negatively affects BMD. Future studies should investigate this association and corroborate our findings.
Effect of machine scatter on the rotating bending fatigue life of materials
Authors: Banavasi Shashidhar M. , Ravishankar K.S. , Naik Padmayya S.
Published: September 2018

Rotating bending fatigue test results vary from specimen to specimen even if materials are tested in a standard laboratory set up because rotating bending fatigue life or fatigue strength depends upon various factors due to its dynamic action. One method of testing may be machine scatter (offset and angular misalignment). Angular misalignments are unavoidable in dynamic machines due to continuous operation leading to transverse vibrations in specimens. The magnitude of transverse vibrations was measured manually by dial gauge arrangement. Experiments were carried out until fracture either with smooth running conditions or with the effects of offset and angular misalignment. The enhanced effect of misalignments on fatigue life was done through the histogram normal distribution technique. There was a clear distinction between the appearances of the fracture surfaces between the specimens subjected to smooth running conditions and specimen vibration, which reveals general fatigue fracture phenomena and intergranular fatigue cracks, larger decohesion of graphite nodules and isolated cleavage facets. The manual technique used without any resistance strain gauges, as they were not efficiently sustainable under repetitive loads, helped in understanding the dynamic machine scatter on fatigue life in an economical way where there were lesser concentrations in these areas.
Effect of dual tocolysis with fenoterol and atosiban in human myometrium
Authors: Stoiber Bernhard , Haslinger Christian , Schäffer Marie Kristin , Zimmermann Roland , Schäffer Leonhard
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To measure the tocolytic effect of the combination of the oxytocin receptor antagonist atosiban with the β-mimetic agent fenoterol on human myometrium of pregnant women.

Methods

Anin vitrostudy of contractility in human myometrium at the Laboratory of the Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital of Zürich, Switzerland, was performed. Thirty-six human myometrial biopsies were obtained during elective caesarean sections of singleton pregnancies at term. Tissue samples were exposed to atosiban, fenoterol and the combination of atosiban with fenoterol. Contractility was measured as area under the curve during 30 min of spontaneous contractions. The effect of treatment was expressed as the percentage of change from basal activity during 30 min of exposure. Differences were calculated using a paired Wilcoxon signed-rank test. An additive effect of dual tocolysis was assumed when no significant difference was detected between the observed and expected inhibition of dual tocolysis. When inhibition was greater or lower than expected, the dual combination was characterised as “synergistic” or “antagonistic”, respectively.

Results

Atosiban and fenoterol alone suppressed contractions by a median of 43.2% and 29.8%, respectively. The combination of atosiban plus fenoterol was measured at a level of 67.3% inhibition. There was no significant difference in the expected (63.2%) and observed inhibition effect of dual tocolysis (P=0.945).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated an additive effect of dual tocolysis of atosiban and fenoterol on human myometriumin vitro, but no synergistic or antagonistic effect.
The advantage of lefties in one-on-one sports
Authors: Fagan Francois , Haugh Martin , Cooper Hal
Published: September 2018

Left-handers comprise approximately 15% of professional tennis players, but only 11% of the general population. In boxing, baseball, fencing, table-tennis and specialist batting positions in cricket the contrast is even starker, with 30% or more of top players often being left-handed. In this paper we propose a model for identifying the advantage of being left-handed in one-on-one interactive sports (as well as the inherent skill of each player). We construct a Bayesian latent ability model in the spirit of the classic Glicko model but with the additional complication of having a latent factor, i.e. the advantage of left-handedness, that we need to estimate. Inference is further complicated by the truncated nature of data-sets that arise from only having data of the top players. We show how to infer the advantage of left-handedness when only the proportion of top left-handed players is available. We use this result to develop a simple dynamic model for inferring how the advantage of left-handedness varies through time. We also extend the model to cases where we have ranking or match-play data. We test these models on 2014 match-play data from top male professional tennis players, and the dynamic model on data from 1985 to 2016.
Oxidative and nitrosative stress in patients with ischemic stroke
Authors: Dogan Ozlem , Kisa Ucler , Erdemoglu Ali Kemal , Kacmaz Murat , Caglayan Osman , Kurku Huseyin
Published: September 2018

Background

Oxidative and nitrosative stress is well believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. This study aims to evaluate the time course of oxidative and nitrosative stress in ischemic stroke.

Methods

In total, 27 healthy individuals, 22 individuals with high risk of ischemic stroke due to hypertension and diabetes mellitus, and 20 patients with acute ischemic stroke hospitalized at the Neurology Department of the Kırıkkale University School of Medicine were enrolled in the study. Venous blood was collected at admission (hour 0) and again at hours 24, 48, 72, and 96. Nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidative stress (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and total antioxidant status (TAS) were measured and compared among stroke patients and control groups.

Results

Blood NO was significantly higher in the patient group at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h compared to the healthy and high-risk control groups, and lower at 96 h than at early times within the patient group (p<0.001). MDA was higher in patients than the healthy control group at all times. Conversely, TOS and OSI were significantly lower in the patient group than the healthy control group at 96 h and the high-risk control group at 72 and 96 h (p<0.05). There was a significant correlation between initial NO (0 h) and duration of hospitalization (r=0.71; p=0.0003).

Conclusions

These findings suggest a substantial early increase in oxidative and nitrosative stress in ischemic stroke patients during the first 2 days post-admission. However, TOS was lower by days 3–4, likely due to pathological recovery and local/systemic defense systems. The correlation between elevated serum NO during the acute phase of stroke and duration of hospitalization suggests NO as a potentially valuable predictor of ensuing oxidative damage and clinical outcome.
Optically processed microlens array for single-beam lithography of plasmonic structures
Authors: Hong Cuiyue , Zhang Xinping
Published: September 2018

A 2D dielectric grating produced by photolithography was employed as a microlens array (MLA), which was based on a smooth surface and a shape that may be defined roughly as a hemisphere of each lattice. Such a 2D MLA can focus an incident ultraviolet light beam into a matrix of light spots, which were estimated to be as small as 500 nm in diameter. Using a thin layer of photoresist (PR) to record the pattern of the focusing spots, we achieved an approximately inversed structure of periodically arranged holes in PR in submicron sizes. Filling these holes with gold using chemically synthesized colloidal gold nanoparticles produced a plasmonic grating consisting of gold nanoparticles larger than 580 nm in average diameter. Localized surface plasmon resonance in both first and second orders was observed, which was verified by the spectroscopic response and theoretical simulations. MLA can be thus repeatedly used as a master to produce plasmonic photonic structures with high reproducibility.
Simultaneous impacts of Joule heating and variable heat source/sink on MHD 3D flow of Carreau-nanoliquids with temperature dependent viscosity
Authors: Ramana Reddy J. V. , Sugunamma V. , Sandeep N.
Published: September 2018

The 3D flow of non-Newtonian nanoliquid flows past a bidirectional stretching sheet with heat transfer is investigated in the present study. It is assumed that viscosity of the liquid varies with temperature. Carreau non-Newtonain model, Tiwari and Das nanofluid model are used to formulate the problem. The impacts of Joule heating, nonlinear radiation and non-uniform (space and temperature dependent) heat source/sink are accounted. Al-Cu-CH3OH and Cu-CH3OH are considered as nanoliquids for the present study. The solution of the problem is attained by the application of shooting and R.K. numerical procedures. Graphical and tabular illustrations are incorporated with a view of understanding the influence of various physical parameters on the flow field. We eyed that using of Al-Cu alloy nanoparticles in the carrier liquid leads to superior heat transfer ability instead of using only Aluminum nanoparticles. Weissenberg number and viscosity parameter have inclination to exalt the thermal field.
A review on determining the refractive index function, thermal accommodation coefficient and evaporation temperature of light-absorbing nanoparticles suspended in the gas phase using the laser-induced incandescence
Authors: Gurentsov Evgeny Valerievich
Published: September 2018

In this review, the possibility of using pulsed, nanosecond laser heating of nanoparticles (NPs) is demonstrated, in order to investigate their thermo-physical properties. This approach is possible because the laser heating produces high NP temperatures that facilitate the observation of their thermal radiation (incandescence). This incandescence depends on the thermo-physical properties of the NPs, such as heat capacity, density, particle size, volume fraction and the refractive index of the particle material, as well as on the heat-mass transfer between the NPs and the surrounding gas media. Thus, the incandescence signal carries information about these properties, which can be extracted by signal analyses. This pulsed laser heating approach is referred to as laser-induced incandescence. Here, we apply this approach to investigate the properties of carbon, metal and carbon-encapsulated Fe NPs. In this review, the recent results of the measurements of the NP refractive index function, thermal energy accommodation coefficient of the NP surface with bath gas molecules and the NP evaporation temperature obtained using laser-induced incandescence are presented and discussed.
Recent development of PeakForce Tapping mode atomic force microscopy and its applications on nanoscience
Authors: Xu Ke , Sun Weihang , Shao Yongjian , Wei Fanan , Zhang Xiaoxian , Wang Wei , Li Peng
Published: September 2018

Nanoscience is a booming field incorporating some of the most fundamental questions concerning structure, function, and applications. The cutting-edge research in nanoscience requires access to advanced techniques and instrumentation capable of approaching these unanswered questions. Over the past few decades, atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been developed as a powerful platform, which enables in situ characterization of topological structures, local physical properties, and even manipulating samples at nanometer scale. Currently, an imaging mode called PeakForce Tapping (PFT) has attracted more and more attention due to its advantages of nondestructive characterization, high-resolution imaging, and concurrent quantitative property mapping. In this review, the origin, principle, and advantages of PFT on nanoscience are introduced in detail. Three typical applications of this technique, including high-resolution imaging of soft samples in liquid environment, quantitative nanomechanical property mapping, and electrical/electrochemical property measurement will be reviewed comprehensively. The future trends of PFT technique development will be discussed as well.
Post-Conflict Reconstruction, Microfinance and Democratic Engagement
Authors: Johnson Samuel Wai
Published: September 2018

This paper presents results from a study of the comparative effects of microfinance group lending, and individual lending technologies on measures of women’s political capital in a fragile conflict-affected setting. Based on a quasi-experiment in Liberia, the two lending technologies were found to have significant effects on different measures of women’s political capital, though the effects were greater for the group lending technology than those of the individual lending. The different effects are due to the program orientation of the two lending technologies which facilitate the development of more resources for communal activism and democratic values among group lending than individual lending borrowers. This impact of this effect will be minimal if factors that constrain the women’s ability to invest their political capital are not addressed. Although more evidence would be required in order to generalize these results, they provide us insights about the political contribution of an economic intervention to post-conflict reconstruction.
The double function of the interpretant in Peirce’s theory of signs
Authors: Aames Jimmy
Published: September 2018

There seem to be two distinct aspects to the role played by the Interpretant in Peirce’s account of the sign relation. On the one hand, the Interpretant is said to establish the relation between the Sign and Object. That is, the Sign can “stand for” its Object, and thereby actually function as a Sign, only by virtue of its being interpreted as such by an Interpretant. On the other hand, the Interpretant is said to be “determined” by the Sign in such a way that it is thereby mediately determined by the Sign’s Object. How can we understand the relation between these two aspects of the Interpretant? This is the question with which this paper is concerned. I begin by drawing a distinction between what I call the first-order function and second-order function of the Interpretant, and illustrating this distinction using Peirce’s example of comparing the letters p and b in § 9 of the 1867 “On a New List of Categories.” I then show that this same distinction can be discerned in a significant passage in the second section of Peirce’s 1903 “A Syllabus of Certain Topics of Logic,” as well as in his early definition of the Interpretant in the “New List.” This double function of the Interpretant has been noted in the Peircean literature, specifically by Joseph Ransdell in his 1966 dissertation, and more recently by André De Tienne. However, an important aspect of what I call the second-order function of the Interpretant remains unclarified in Ransdell and De Tienne’s approaches, namely, its relation to the logical operation of hypostatic abstraction. I will show that the Interpretant, in its second-order function, plays a role formally identical in the sign process to the role played by hypostatic abstraction in Peirce’s demonstrations of the Reduction Thesis. This formal identity will afford us with a way of understanding the relation between the two aspects of the Interpretant in terms of hypostatic abstraction.
Identifying pain in children with CHARGE syndrome
Authors: Stratton Kasee K. , Hartshorne Timothy
Published: September 2018

Background and aims

The objective was to conduct the first investigation to identify the frequency and intensity of pain experiences for individuals with CHARGE syndrome and to review the use of two established non-vocal pain assessments with children with CHARGE, the NCCPC-R (Non-Communicating Children’s Pain Checklist-Revised) and the PPP (Pediatrics Pain Profile).

Methods

Parents of children with CHARGE were enrolled. Participants completed a pain questionnaire and the NCCPC-R and PPP twice, once for a baseline measure and second during a painful experience for their child.

Results

A moderate negative correlation between the mean intensity of pain and the mean duration of pain among individuals with CHARGE was found, ρ=−0.34. There was a tendency for intensity of pain to increase for sources of pain that were of shorter duration. The NCCPC-R and PPP were found to identify pain when compared to baseline performance (no pain) with a large effect, d=1.3. For the NCCPC-R, the difference between these ratings was significant beyond the 0.05 level, t (40)=8.15, p=0.000, 95% CI [16.93, 28.10]. Similarly, for the PPP, the mean pain ratings were significantly greater than the mean ratings for no pain, with significance beyond the 0.05 level, t (51)=9.59, p=0.000, CI 95% [11.74, 17.96].

Conclusions

Evidence exists that children with CHARGE experience pain. While the NCCPC-R and PPP were found to identify pain; future research should consider the development of a pain assessment individualized to pain behaviors present in CHARGE syndrome, given this population’s unique expression of pain.
Stress, strain and Raman shifts
Authors: Angel Ross J. , Murri Mara , Mihailova Boriana , Alvaro Matteo
Published: September 2018

The concept of the phonon-mode Grüneisen tensor is reviewed as method to determine the elastic strains across crystals from the changes in the wavenumbers of Raman-active phonon modes relative to an unstrained crystal. The symmetry constraints on the phonon-mode Grüneisen tensor are discussed and the consequences for which combinations of strains can be determined by this method are stated. A computer program for Windows, stRAinMAN, has been written to calculate strains from changes in Raman (or other phonon) mode wavenumbers, and vice-versa. It can be downloaded for free from www.rossangel.net.
Experimental Investigation of CFFP-Soil Interaction in Sand under Cyclic Lateral Loading
Authors: Qin Wei , Dai Guoliang , Zhao Xueliang , Shu Guangbo , Gong Weiming
Published: September 2018

An experimental investigation was conducted on the response of concrete-filled fiber-reinforced polymer piles (CFFPs) in dry sand subjected to lateral cyclic loading. Two types of instrumented model pile tests were conducted. Fifteen tests were conducted with typical load magnitudes and numbers of cycles, and one test was conducted under static loading. The series of tests provided continuous measurements of the bearing characteristics of the model piles and of the responses of the piles and soil because of differences in the pile sizes, cycle frequencies, and numbers of cycles. Significant softening or degradation of the soil near the tested piles was found under large lateral cyclic loads. The rate effect was also determined by changing the cycle frequency. The behavior of the softening and the rate effect were determined by varying the number of cycles and the magnitude of the loads. The tests demonstrate that the maximal bending moment and soil resistance of CFFPs degrade by approximately 15 % and 25 %, respectively, from 50 to 700 cycles at the ultimate loading level. These tests confirm that the maximal bending moment was 35 % to 50 % greater under dynamic loading than under static loading, and the soil degradation was remarkable. The relatively short CFFPs more easily reached the ultimate state than the long CFFPs. The results were used to fit the modulus of subgrade reaction (k), and a new formula to predict k is proposed, which shows good precision.
The Development of a Micromechanical Apparatus Applying Combined Normal–Shear–Bending Forces to Natural Sand Grains with Artificial Bonds
Authors: Wang Wanying , Coop Matthew R. , Senetakis Kostas
Published: September 2018

Natural soils are often cemented, and there has been a need to better understand and properly model their behavior for the safe design and assessment of critical infrastructure. This necessitates the study of cemented soils at the scale of the grain. In this study, a new-generation apparatus is presented that is capable of conducting complex load path tests on two natural sand grains cemented with an artificial bonding component. Thus, the apparatus gives the opportunity to obtain insights into the micromechanics of cemented soils/weak rocks and contribute to the development of more accurate models to be utilized in the discrete element analysis of geomaterials. Apart from the presentation of the major technical features of the new apparatus, a description of the methods which were used for specimen preparation and mounting, as well as a preliminary set of experiments, are presented and discussed in this note.
Women Empowerment to Build Entrepreneurship
Authors: Karwati Lilis , Ansori Ansori , Mulyono Dinno
Published: September 2018

Problems in the implementation of women empowerment activities organized by government or community institutions indicate that the number of women is large enough, yet can not be utilized all the potential for development purposes because women can not enjoy life better because of the shackles of cultural sanctions. the theoretical studies developed related to building women through entrepreneurship program is one of the reasons to empower women to be able to create entrepreneurship opportunities. This study was conducted using research and development methods with data collection techniques; literature study, observation, interview, documentation, questionnaire and test. The data are analyzed descriptively, qualitatively and quantitatively. Implementation of activities in Neglasari Village Tasikmalaya. The findings show that the implementation of entrepreneurial activities as an effort to empower women can improve the level of better family economy. The results of this activity can be concluded that the model of empowerment of entrepreneurship women is very effective to improve self-reliance.
Genetic determinants of glucose levels in pregnancy: genetic risk scores analysis and GWAS in the Norwegian STORK cohort
Authors: Moen Gunn-Helen , LeBlanc Marissa , Sommer Christine , Prasad Rashmi B , Lekva Tove , Normann Kjersti R , Qvigstad Elisabeth , Groop Leif , Birkeland Kåre I , Evans David M , Frøslie Kathrine F
Published: September 2018

Objective

Hyperglycaemia during pregnancy increases the risk of adverse health outcomes in mother and child, but the genetic aetiology is scarcely studied. Our aims were to (1) assess the overlapping genetic aetiology between the pregnant and non-pregnant population and (2) assess the importance of genome-wide polygenic contributions to glucose traits during pregnancy, by exploring whether genetic risk scores (GRSs) for fasting glucose (FG), 2-h glucose (2hG), type 2 diabetes (T2D) and BMI in non-pregnant individuals were associated with glucose measures in pregnant women.

Methods

We genotyped 529 Norwegian pregnant women and constructed GRS from known genome-wide significant variants and SNPs weakly associated (p > 5 × 10−8) with FG, 2hG, BMI and T2D from external genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and examined the association between these scores and glucose measures at gestational weeks 14–16 and 30–32. We also performed GWAS of FG, 2hG and shape information from the glucose curve during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

Results

GRSFG explained similar variance during pregnancy as in the non-pregnant population (~5%). GRSBMI and GRST2D explained up to 1.3% of the variation in the glucose traits in pregnancy. If we included variants more weakly associated with these traits, GRS2hG and GRST2D explained up to 2.4% of the variation in the glucose traits in pregnancy, highlighting the importance of polygenic contributions.

Conclusions

Our results suggest overlap in the genetic aetiology of FG in pregnant and non-pregnant individuals. This was less apparent with 2hG, suggesting potential differences in postprandial glucose metabolism inside and outside of pregnancy.
Arrhythmogenic Inflammatory Cardiomyopathy: A Review
Authors: Bauer Brenton S , Li Anthony , Bradfield Jason S ,   UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, USA,   UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, USA,   UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, USA
Published: September 2018

Arrhythmogenic inflammatory cardiomyopathy is a recent clinical description of a subgroup of patients with non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy who are referred to electrophysiologists for evaluation and management of ventricular arrhythmias and are found to have evidence of active cardiac inflammation. The identification of these patients is key, since the aetiology of their arrhythmic burden is likely both related to scar-mediated and direct inflammatory mechanisms, which may have different treatment approaches. Evaluation of these patients starts with a full clinical history and physical examination along with echocardiography, as with most patients with cardiomyopathy, however, additional imaging with fluorodeoxyglucose PET-CT and cardiac MRI is crucial. Medical treatment is aimed at targeting traditional neurohumeral mediators to achieve recovery of ejection fraction, in addition to immunosuppressant medication to directly treat inflammation. While medical treatment alone is successful in many patients, some will require further invasive management with electrophysiologic study and radiofrequency catheter ablation.
No ‘ano do laicato’, o rosto leigo de Deus
Authors: Barros Marcelo
Published: September 2018

Tendo em vista o Ano do Laicato, celebrado neste ano no Brasil, pretende-se oferecer algumas pistas de reflexão no sentido de superar tanto o clericalismo como a divisão assimétrica radical entre leigos e clérigos, existentes na Igreja. O ponto de partida é a evangelicidade da laicidade, que encontra a sua autoridade máxima na pessoa do próprio Verbo encarnado, Jesus de Nazaré. Propõe-se uma espiritualidade leiga-libertadora, vivida e praticada numa Igreja essencialmentelaical. Ao demonstrar que tanto o clericalismo como a dicotomia leigos-clérigos, mais do que estarem radicados no Evangelho, são frutos de desenvolvimentos históricos, pretende-se evidenciar a necessidade de um retorno (conversão) mais radical ao ‘espírito do Evangelho’, que consiste na prática da justiça. Conclui-se afirmando que, quanto mais a Igreja colocar, de forma unânime (leigos e clérigos), o foco de sua missão na promoção da justiça e da paz, tanto mais próxima estará do Espírito de Jesus e mais profético-libertador será o seu testemunho.
Bibliometry of marine science and limnology publications (1979-2015) by the Centro de Investigación en Ciencias del Mar y Limnología (CIMAR), Universidad de Costa Rica
Authors: Nielsen-Muñoz Vanessa , Azofeifa-Mora Ana Beatriz , Romero-Chaves Raquel , Wehrtmann Ingo S.
Published: September 2018

Bibliometrics play a significant role in evaluating the scientific production of journals and research units such as universities and research centers. The present study aimed to analyze the scientific production of CIMAR (Center for Research in Marine Science and Limnology) from its foundation in 1979 to 2015. We analyzed exclusively articles published in journals and selected those with at least one author affiliated to CIMAR. For the analysis, each article was classified according to the geographical study area, the topic of the investigation, ecosystem, and taxonomic group. We analyzed the following variables: year of publication, language, journal name, and authors. In this study, we analyzed the Bradford distribution, citations, the impact factor, and the quartiles of the journals where papers were published. During the study period, CIMAR produced a total of 791 publications: 624 articles, 90 book chapters or books, 48 booklets, and 34 special issues of the journal Revista de Biología Tropical (RBT). The number of publications showed an increasing trend during the study period, and most articles were written in English (58.3 %) and Spanish (41.7 %). A total of 128 journals were selected to publish CIMAR’s contributions. According to the Bradford method, the journal RBT is in Zone I (major productivity or concentration), with 49.8 % of the total scientific production. In relation to authorship, 22 authors with 12 articles or more are registered, and 80 % of the articles have been published by authors with a low (42 authors) and medium productivity level (44 authors). CIMAR published 81.6 % regarding marine topics and 18.4 % about limnology. Most of the articles (51.9 %) dealt with the Pacific of Costa Rica, 13.5 % with the Caribbean and 34.7 % referred to other study locations. The publications of CIMAR were mainly about ecology (33.3 %), taxonomy (24.5 %) and oceanography/meteorology (12.7 %). CIMAR has a highly trained and specialized staff that has gained experience and is contributing to the implementation and evaluation of Costa Rica’s science, technology and innovation policies through both interdisciplinary research and the development of institutional as well as professional capacities in a framework of dialogue and public-private agreements.
Assessment Strategies to Improve the Diagnosis of Osteomyelitis in Diabetic Foot Using Radiography
Authors: De Godoy Jose Maria Pereira
Published: September 2018

Background:  Diabetes mellitus is a multi-system disease that affects people of both genders and any age or ethnic group. Foot wounds are common and can lead to loss of limb in cases of therapeutic failure. Aim: The aim of this study was to correlate initial diagnoses of osteomyelitis by radiography with bacterial cultures and identify ways to improve the diagnosis using this method. Method: In a prospective random clinical trial, the correlation between radiographs and bacterial cultures were evaluated in diabetic patients undergoing amputation of toes or part of the foot in Hospital de Base in the period from October 2010 to January 2012. Radiographs were considered suggestive of osteomyelitis if they identified an irregular bone surface, obliteration, bone resorption or periosteal resorption. The diagnostic impression from imaging was compared to the results of a bacterial growth culture prepared using bone removed during surgery. Results: An analysis of the radiographs identified 29 patients with results that were suggestive of osteomyelitis. Of these, the results of 27 bacterial cultures were positive. Eight of the 22 radiographs that were not suggestive of osteomyelitis were negative and 14 were positive. Conclusion: The diagnosis of osteomyelitis in diabetic foot can be improved by stratifying the results, taking the positive results and creating a diagnostic window with another diagnostic evaluation in cases that are initially negative.
Preparing the Online Language Program Administrator: A Needs Analysis of Intensive English Programs in the United States
Authors: Steadman Angel , Kraut Rachel
Published: September 2018

As fully-online classes continue to grow in popularity, administrators of language programs in higher education settings are increasingly responsible for implementing and overseeing online language teaching classes and curricula. However, few language program administrators have extensive experience in online education, and little training exists at the administrative level for this field. In this mixed-methods study, survey and interview data with Intensive English Program (IEP) administrators in the United States show that less formal training and experience in online education are correlated with lower perceived self-efficacy among IEP administrators faced with managing online programs, and that IEP administrators overwhelmingly believe additional training would be beneficial. This study examines the needs described by participants and provides recommendations for future training options based on the needs identified.
Tumarkin-like phenomenon as a sign of therapeutic success in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Authors: Maranhão Eliana T. , Whitney Susan L. , Maranhão-Filho Péricles
Published: September 2018

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe an unusual patient reaction to maneuvers used in the treatment of posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (PC-BPPV) that we termed the “Tumarkin-like phenomenon”. Methods: At a private practice, 221 outpatients were diagnosed and treated for PC-BPPV. The treatment consisted of performing the Epley or Semont maneuvers. At the end of these maneuvers, when assuming the sitting position, the patients’ reactions were recorded. Results: Thirty-three patients showed a Tumarkin-like phenomenon described by a self-reported sensation of suddenly being thrown to the ground. In the follow-up, this group of patients remained without PC-BPPV symptoms up to at least 72 hours after the maneuvers. Conclusion: The occurrence of a Tumarkin-like phenomenon at the end of Epley and Semont maneuvers for PC-BPPV may be linked with treatment success.
Motor and non-motor wearing-off and its impact in the quality of life of patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Rodríguez-Violante Mayela , Ospina-García Natalia , Dávila-Avila Ned Merari , Cruz-Fino Diego , Cruz-Landero Alejandra de la , Cervantes-Arriaga Amin
Published: September 2018

ABSTRACT The wearing-off phenomenon is common in patients with Parkinson's disease. Motor and non-motor symptoms can fluctuate in relation to the “on/off” periods. Objective: To assess the impact of motor and non-motor wearing-off on activities of daily living and quality of life of patients with PD. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out. All patients were evaluated using the Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale. Wearing-off was assessed using the Wearing-Off Questionnaire-19, and quality of life was assessed using the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire-8. Results: A total of 271 patients were included; 73.4% had wearing-off; 46.8% had both motor and non-motor fluctuations. Patients with both motor and non-motor wearing-off had a worst quality of life compared with those with only motor fluctuations (p = 0.047). Conclusions: Motor and non-motor fluctuations have an impact on activities of daily living and quality of life. Non-motor wearing-off may have a higher impact.
Margaret Dix, Charles Hallpike and the ‘Lagerungs’ Manoeuvre
Authors: Maranhão-Filho Péricles , Nandi Raj , Maranhão Eliana T.
Published: September 2018

ABSTRACT The main objective of this manuscript is to describe some personal and professional aspects of two outstanding researchers and pioneers in neuro-otology. Among other achievements, Margaret Ruth Dix, and Charles Skinner Hallpike, designed the most-used provocative test for positional nystagmus for the diagnosis of lithiasis in the vestibular posterior semicircular canal.
Brazilian Consensus for the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis: Brazilian Academy of Neurology and Brazilian Committee on Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Marques Vanessa Daccach , Passos Giordani Rodrigues dos , Mendes Maria Fernanda , Callegaro Dagoberto , Lana-Peixoto Marco Aurélio , Comini-Frota Elizabeth Regina , Vasconcelos Cláudia Cristina Ferreira , Sato Douglas Kazutoshi , Ferreira Maria Lúcia Brito , Parolin Mônica Koncke Fiuza , Damasceno Alfredo , Grzesiuk Anderson Kuntz , Muniz André , Matta André Palma da Cunha , Oliveira Bianca Etelvina Santos de , Tauil Carlos Bernardo , Maciel Damacio Ramón Kaimen , Diniz Denise Sisteroli , Corrêa Eber Castro , Coronetti Fernando , Jorge Frederico M. H. , Sato Henry Koiti , Gonçalves Marcus Vinícius Magno , Sousa Nise Alessandra de C. , Nascimento Osvaldo J. M. , Gama Paulo Diniz da , Domingues Renan , Simm Renata Faria , Thomaz Rodrigo Barbosa , Morales Rogério de Rizo , Dias Ronaldo Maciel , Apóstolos-Pereira Samira dos , Machado Suzana Costa Nunes , Junqueira Thiago de Faria , Becker Jefferson
Published: September 2018

ABSTRACT The expanding therapeutic arsenal in multiple sclerosis (MS) has allowed for more effective and personalized treatment, but the choice and management of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) is becoming increasingly complex. In this context, experts from the Brazilian Committee on Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis and the Neuroimmunology Scientific Department of the Brazilian Academy of Neurology have convened to establish this Brazilian Consensus for the Treatment of MS, based on their understanding that neurologists should be able to prescribe MS DMTs according to what is better for each patient, based on up-to-date evidence and practice. We herein propose practical recommendations for the treatment of MS, with the main focus on the choice and management of DMTs, as well as present a review of the scientific rationale supporting therapeutic strategies in MS.
Complicações em colonoscopia: experiência uni-institucional com 8968 pacientes.
Authors: Coser Roger Beltrati , Dalio Marcelo Bellini , Martins Lorraine Cristina Passos , Alvarenga Gustavo Fernandes de , Cruz Camila Aloise , Imperiale Antonio Rocco , Padovese Camila Campos , Paulo Gustava Andrade de , Teixeira Júnior José Carlos
Published: September 2018

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a incidência, características epidemiológicas, diagnóstico e evolução dos pacientes que retornaram às unidades de pronto atendimento (UPA) do Hospital Albert Einstein em São Paulo/SP com sinais e sintomas sugestivos de complicações até 30 dias após realização de colonoscopia. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo uni-institucional de pacientes submetidos à colonoscopia em 2014 e que retornaram, em até 30 dias após o procedimento, a uma UPA. Resultados: foram realizadas colonoscopias em 8968 pacientes, dos quais 95 (1,06%) tiveram queixa relacionada à possível complicação. A maioria dos procedimentos foi realizada eletivamente. Complicações menores (dor abdominal inespecífica/distensão) foram frequentes (0,49%) e a maioria dos pacientes recebeu alta após consulta na UPA. Complicações graves foram menos frequentes: perfuração (0,033%), hemorragia digestiva baixa (0,044%) e obstrução intestinal (0,044%). A procura à UPA em menos de 24 horas após o procedimento associou-se a maior índice de colonoscopias normais (P=0,006), mais diagnóstico de febre (P=0,0003) e síndrome dispéptica (P=0,043) e menos diagnóstico de colite/ileíte (P=0,015). A presença de febre em pacientes atendidos na UPA associou-se ao diagnóstico de pólipos na colonoscopia (P=0,030). Conclusão: os dados do presente estudo corroboram as evidências de segurança do exame de colonoscopia e apontam para redução nos índices de complicações mais graves deste exame.
A lucratividade dos bancos norte-americanos após a crise de 2007/2008
Authors: CECILIO MARCO BULHÕES
Published: September 2018

RESUMO Este trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar como se comportou a rentabilidade dos grandes bancos Norte-americanos após a crise de 2007/2008, além de buscar explicações preliminares que ajudem a explicar o comportamento encontrado. Para isso, avalia os dados históricos de 1932 até 2015. Os resultados mostram que a fatia dos lucros totais da economia Norte-americana capturada pelo setor financeiro reduziu-se em relação ao auge dos anos 2000, mas ainda se encontra em patamar superior ao do período pós-Guerra. Os indícios apontam para a diminuição da alavancagem por pressão regulatória como principal causador da redução.
TRABALHO E POLÍTICA EM SÃO BERNARDO: ARQUEOLOGIA DE UMA HEGEMONIA PRECÁRIA
Authors: Braga Ruy
Published: September 2018

Resumo O principal objetivo deste artigo é revisitar as etnografias do trabalho operário, assim como os estudos de caso ampliados que, ao longo dos anos 1970 e 1980, registraram a transformação do grupo operário metalúrgico de São Bernardo em um dos mais importantes atores políticos do processo de redemocratização do país, precipitando o fim da ditadura militar e inaugurando o que alguns autores chamaram de “era das invenções democráticas”. Para tanto, inicialmente pretende-se enfocar as raízes sociais do processo de inquietação operária no tocante à relação entre o recrudescimento do despotismo fabril e os limites à negociação impostos pela regulação autoritária como catalisador do ciclo grevista que se estendeu entre 1978 e 1981. Finalmente, busca-se identificar no contexto histórico da onda grevista de fins dos anos 1970 a formação da relação social hegemônica que combinou o consentimento passivo das bases sociais com o consentimento ativo das lideranças sindicais na criação da regulação lulista dos conflitos sociais que vigorou no país entre os anos de 2003 e 2016.
A analogia e o sentimento do sujeito falante em Saussure
Authors: Silva Karen Alves da
Published: September 2018

RESUMO Neste artigo, nosso objetivo é percorrer alguns dos manuscritos de Saussure e de seus alunos - tais como a Primeira Conferência de Saussure na Universidade de Genebra e os cadernos de Riedlinger referentes ao primeiro e ao segundo cursos de Saussure -, bem como o Curso de Linguística Geral - CLG (1916), a fim de analisar, no corte sincrônico, o papel do sujeito falante saussuriano em relação à analogia. Nossa intenção é, primeiramente, delinear os contornos do funcionamento da analogia e, em um segundo passo, verificar a relação do sujeito falante com as criações linguísticas decorrentes desse fenômeno.
Saussure e o aspecto fônico da língua
Authors: Milano Luiza
Published: September 2018

RESUMO O presente artigo tem como objetivo realizar um percurso de leitura acerca da importância do aspecto fônico da língua no legado do mestre genebrino Ferdinand de Saussure. Partindo das noções de concreto e abstrato presentes no clássico livro Curso de Linguística Geral (CLG), são analisados os conceitos de fonema, fonética e fonologia presentes na obra. A abordagem da materialidade fônica no CLG é contrastada com duas outras importantes fontes manuscritas do autor, os Escritos de Linguística Geral e o manuscrito harvardiano Phonétique.
HIBRIDAÇÕES DA CULTURA ACADÊMICA COM A CIBERCULTURA: ANÁLISE DAS PRÁTICAS ACADÊMICAS NO AMBIENTE VIRTUAL DE APRENDIZAGEM MOODLE
Authors: Silva Lebiam Tamar Gomes , Bezerra Irinalda da Silva
Published: September 2018

RESUMO: O texto apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa de iniciação científica (PIBIC) sobre a cultura acadêmica e o processo de hibridação com a cibercultura. O estudo teve o objetivo geral de verificar de que maneira as mediações entre os aprendentes e as tecnologias intelectuais digitais favorecem ou restringem a ressignificação da cultura acadêmica. Para atendê-lo, a pesquisa buscou identificar diferentes práticas acadêmicas de uso do ambiente virtual de aprendizagem (AVA) Moodle e analisar seus elementos constituintes. Trata-se de uma pesquisa etnográfica, fundamentada na perspectiva intercultural, segundo Canclini e Martín-Barbero, vinculada aos Estudos Culturais da Educação. Os resultados apontaram que o AVA Moodle não tem favorecido a hibridação da cultura acadêmica com a cibercultura, em razão, principalmente, da episteme que governa o ensino e a aprendizagem na universidade. Constatou-se que as práticas e os elementos da cultura acadêmica que foram analisados tendem a reproduzir o paradigma de ensino vigente na instituição investigada.