bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formulating Event Loyalty in Tourism: Lessons From the World Travel Market
Authors: Fragkogianni Marietta
Published: February 2018

The literature extensively focuses on loyalty formulation, but event loyalty is scarcely researched despite the substantial contribution of events in tourism. This article examines the formulation of event loyalty at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London. Using a sample of 274 visitors,
it evaluates the impact of performance, the social, educational, and emotional value, and the marketing activities of WTM on event loyalty formulation and development. Moreover, it examines event loyalty in terms of employment orientation of an audience characterized in direct relevance with
the tourism domain. The findings reveal that the most important factor affecting event loyalty is marketing activities followed by event performance, although all constructs appear to impact visitor loyalty of the examined event. In addition, the employment orientation of visitors substantially
influences all the examined constructs. Finally, the study discusses several managerial implications concerning the formulation and development of loyalty in travel and tourism-related events.
Diels–Alder cycloadditions of N-arylpyrroles via aryne intermediates using diaryliodonium salts
Authors: Chen Huangguan , Han Jianwei , Wang Limin
Published: February 2018

With a strategy of the formation of benzynes by using diaryliodonium salts, a cycloaddition reaction of N-arylpyrroles with benzynes was reported. A wide range of bridge-ring amines with various substituents have been synthesized in moderate to excellent yields (35–96%). Furthermore, with a catalytic amount of TsOH·H2O, these amines can be converted into the corresponding N-phenylamine derivatives easily, which are potentially useful in photosensitive dyes.
Investigational approach to adenoviral conjunctivitis: comparison of three diagnostic tests using a Bayesian latent class model
Authors: Sundaramurthy Raja , Dhodapkar Rahul , Kaliaperumal Subashini , Harish Belgode Narasimha
Published: February 2018

Introduction: Highly contagious adenoviral conjunctivitis represents 15-70% of all conjunctivitis worldwide. Human adenovirus (hAdV) serotypes 3,4,7,8,19 and 37 contributes to 89% of all adenoviral conjunctivitis. Accurate and rapid diagnosis of adenoviral infections at serotype level could prevent misdiagnosis, spread of disease, unnecessary antibiotic use and increased treatment costs.

Methodology: Sixty-two suspected viral conjunctivitis cases were recruited from November2013-January2015. Swabs collected from inferior palpebral conjunctiva and processed for viral culture (Hep2 cell line), immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (targeting hexon gene). Serotype 3,4,7,8,19 and 37 identification was carried out with an optimized multiplex-PCR (based on hypervariable region of hexon gene) and confirmed by sequence analysis. Bayesian Latent Class Model (LCM) analysis was used to compare sensitivity and specificity of three tests.

Results: Adenovirus was detected in 54.8% (34/62) of cases by combination of all three methods. Culture was positive in 23/34 cases (67.6%). PCR and IFA detected adenovirus in 24 (70.5%) and 21 (61.7%) cases respectively. LCM analysis revealed, sensitivity and specificity of PCR, Culture and IFA was 77.8% and 92.4%; 72.2% and 90.8%; 67.6% and 92.9% respectively. Serotyping by multiplex-PCR showed, two cases each were hAdV3 and hAdV4, 18 hAdV8 and two remained unidentified. Results of Multiplex-PCR and sequence analysis showed 100% concordance

Conclusion: LCM analysis revealed, PCR is the most appropriate method for identification. Multiplex-PCR is a simple and rapid method (serotypes identification within two days); owing its short turnaround time and accuracy, it can be used as a diagnostic tool for surveillance of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis.
In vitro activity of hybrid lavender essential oils against multidrug resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Donadu Matthew , Usai Donatella , Pinna Antonio , Porcu Tiziana , Mazzarello Vittorio , Fiamma Maura , Marchetti Mauro , Cannas Sara , Delogu Giovanni , Zanetti Stefania , Molicotti Paola
Published: February 2018

Introduction: Lavender is an evergreen shrub native to Northern Africa and other mountainous Mediterranean regions. It grows throughout Southern Europe, the United States, and Australia. Lavender essential oil has been used since ancient times and is known for its anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antiseptic, antifungal and antimicrobial properties.

Methodology: in this study, the antimicrobial activity of two Lavender essential oils (Lavanda sumian and Lavanda grosso) against 16 multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa strains from clinical ocular samples taken from migrant patients has been investigated. The in vitro cytotoxic activity on human Wong-Kilbourne derivative (WKD) conjunctiva cells from healthy patients and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity on murine macrophage (J774.1A) were also evaluated.

Results: L. sumian showed lower antimicrobial activity when compared to L. grosso. Both lavender oils tested had no cytotoxic effect at very low concentrations, mostly L. grosso. The essential oils extracted from L. sumian and L. grosso significantly reduced NOS in a cell model.

Conclusion: Increase in drug resistance and lack of new antibiotics may encourage the development of natural antimicrobial treatments.
Suppression of Phyllospheric Microbiota Alters Content of Pharmacologically Relevant Compounds of S. nigra Flowers
Authors: Boroduske Anete , Nakurte Ilva , Rostoks Nils
Published: February 2018

Accumulating scientific evidence suggests that medicinal plant-associated microbiota has a significant role in biosynthesis of pharmacologically relevant compounds. Suppression of S. nigra microbiota by an antibiotic treatment leads to a decreased emission of volatile terpenoids from S. nigra flowers and an altered metabolome of a host plant. However, it is not known if suppression of microbiota also affects an abundance of health promoting compounds and pharmacologically relevant properties of S. nigra. The present study reveals, that suppression of phyllospheric microbiota by an antibiotic treatment affects total phenolic content (TPC), anti-radical activity (ARA) and total flavonol content (Flav) of wild S. nigra flowers. Significance analysis of metabolites (SAM) performed using ultra high performance liquid chromatography-time of flight-masspectrometry (UHPLC-TOF-MS) based metabolomics data identifies pharmacologically relevant flavonols as metabolites discriminating between antibiotic treated and control flowers of S. nigra. Reported results substantiate need for a research investigating an effect of microbiota suppression on a biological activity of S. nigra flowers.
Synthesis and Thermal Properties of Azobenzene Core Polyester Dendrimers with Trityl Groups at the Periphery
Authors: Laipniece Lauma , Kampars Valdis
Published: February 2018

We have synthesized polyester type dendrimers containing azobenzene chromophore in the core and trityl groups at the periphery using divergent growth strategy up to 3rdgeneration. We analyzed dendrimer samples using NMR, HPLC, TG, DSC and UV-Vis techniques. We found out that functionalization of dendrimer periphery is not complete. Dendrimers with trityl groups at the periphery have glass transition temperatures in the range 73-87 °C.
Hydrophilic-Hydrophobic Characteristics of Wood-Polymer Composites Filled with Modified Wood Particles
Authors: Jaunslavietis Jevgenijs , Shulga Galia , Ozolins Jurijs , Neiberte Brigita , Verovkins Anrijs , Vitolina Sanita , Betkers Talrits
Published: February 2018

In this study, hydrophobic-hydrophilic characteristics, including contact angle and moisture sorption of a modified wood filler and the wood-polymer composites (WPC) containing it was investigated. The wood filler obtained from aspen sawdust was modified by mild acid hydrolysis and by ammoxidation. Contact angles of the wood particles and the WPC samples were measured with Kruss K100M using the Washburn and Wilhelmy methods, respectively. Work of adhesion was calculated using Young-Dupre equation. Surface free energy as well as its dispersive and polar parts were found using Owens-Wendt-Rabel-Kaelble approach. It was found that the hydrolysis and the ammoxidation led to decrease of the hemicelluloses content in the lignocellulosic matrix. Beside this, the ammoxidation favours the formation of amide bonds in the ammoxidised particles. These changes enhanced the contact angles, decreased the work of adhesion, and decreased surface free energy of the WPC samples filled with the modified particles in comparison with the WPC sample that contained the unmodified ones. The treatment of the wood particles decreased the wettability towards water, but increased it towards recycled polypropylene. This positively effects mechanical properties of the samples.
Study on Synthesis of N-Protected 2-Triazolyl Azetidines
Authors: Peipiņš Vilnis , Suta Krista , Turks Māris
Published: February 2018

Azetidine derivatives are interesting scaffolds in terms of medicinal chemistry. They can be regarded as structural homologs of aziridines. Herein we report synthetic approach to the novel N-protected 2-triazolyl azetidines which are structurally similar to our previously described aziridine derivatives with matrix metalloproteinase-2 inhihbitory activities. The synthetic rout includes ring closing of ethyl 2,4-dibromobutanoate, selective reduction of ester to aldehyde and transformation of the latter to terminal alkyne by Ohira-Bestmann reagent. 2-Ethynyl azetidines as key intermediates were transformed into triazole derivatives by Cu(I) catalyzed azide-alkyne 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction.
Polyols from Condensed Tannin Enriched Extracts for Rigid Polyurethane Foam Production
Authors: Vevere Laima , Janceva Sarmīte , Arshanitsa Alexandr , Telysheva Galina
Published: February 2018

A condensed tannin enriched extract from Grey alder bark was completely liquefied using the batch solvent free oxypropylation process in a high pressure reactor. The obtained polyols were characterized in terms of their composition, functionality, viscosity, and reactivity towards isocyanate. The main constituents of the obtained polyols included high functional polyphenolics based copolymers and low functional constituents – carbohydrate derived products based copolymers and polypropylene glycols. This structure is important for governing the balance between the rigidity and elasticity of polyurethane networks. The polyols were successfully tested in rigid polyurethane foam compositions. Closed cell foams with a density of about 45 kg·m-3were produced.
Secondary Insulating Glass Sealant from Synthesized Mercapto Terminated Prepolymer Based on Polyether Polyol and Castor Oil
Authors: Berzins Ritvars , Merijs Meri Remo , Zicans Janis
Published: February 2018

Thiokol is one of the oldest and the most expensive prepolymers which also is used for insulating glass application. One of potential alternatives is modified polyether polyol, but it has poor ultraviolet light stability. This work is dedicated to synthesized alternative prepolymers and development of two component systems for insulating glass sealant application. By subjecting these particular systems to temperature, water and ultraviolet light resistance tests, it is concluded that in respect to water and UV-light resistance the systems of modified prepolymers are even better than the system with thiokol prepolymer.
Synthesis of Tetrahydroindazole-Triazole Conjugates and their Derivatization by the Ritter Reaction
Authors: Greitāns Kārlis , Rībena Daina , Turks Māris
Published: February 2018

7-Azido-3,6,6-trimethyl-1-(pyridin-2-yl)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-4H-indazol-4-one undergoes copper (I)-catalyzed 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions with terminal alkynes and provides the corresponding 7-(1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)-derivatives with excellent yields. Reduction of keto group at C(4) gives an access to diastereoisomeric mixture of alcohols. The latter provide acetamides in the Ritter reaction with acetonitrile upon treatment in acidic media. The developed synthetic sequence offers an easy entry into 4,7-difunctionalized tetrahydroindazoles which are interesting in terms of medicinal chemistry.
Common and Different in Latvian Clay Minerals
Authors: Lescinskis Oskars , Švinka Ruta , Švinka Visvaldis
Published: February 2018

Clays are materials consisting of clay minerals and non-clay minerals. Some applications allow to use raw clay others require to separate clay minerals from non-clay minerals. Clay mineral fraction is considered to be a nanofraction. Description and characterization of 3 different Latvian clay nanosized minerals from 3 different geological periods (clay Liepa from Devonian period, clay Vadakste from Triassic period and clay Apriki from Quaternary period) are summarized. The main mineral in these clays is illite, however the presence of kaolinite is observed and its quantity depends on geological period in which clays formed. Nanosized clay mineral particles were obtained using sedimentation method. Comparison of mineralogical composition, BET nitrogen adsorption, zeta potential, DTA/TG analysis and FTIR spectra is given. XRD phase analysis results were very close to each other and shows that mineral of illite is more than that of kaolinite. BET nitrogen adsorption data shows that clay minerals of Apriki has the highest specific surface area (81 m2/g), whereas clay minerals of Vadakste has it the lowest (43 m2/g). Zeta potential values for clay minerals Apriki, Liepa and Vadakste are-40.9 mV, -49.6 mV and-43.0 mV, respectively. DTA analysis and FTIR spectra show similar tendencies for all 3 clay minerals.
Phase Composition and Morphology of Tungsten Oxide Nanoparticles Produced via a Pyrolytic Process
Authors: Serga Vera , Zablotsky Dmitry , Krūmiņa Aija , Lubane Mara , Heidemane Gundega
Published: February 2018

The chemical synthesis is a leading route for the purposeful design of nanomaterials, whereas the tungsten oxides are employed in a variety of special applications. The production of nanomaterials by traditional synthetic methods is still a cumbersome multistep procedure. Here we propose an improved method to produce tungsten oxide nanoparticles via a pyrolytic process. A tungsten-containing precursor was prepared by liquid extraction using n-trioctylamine (C8H17)3N solution in toluene. We have shown that the conditions of thermal treatment of the W-based precursor determine the crystalline structure and nanomorphology of the final product. Monoclinic WO3 nanocrystallites are produced conducting the pyrolysis above 450 °C. The proposed method is a facile and versatile route to produce and control the phase composition and morphology of tungsten oxide-based nanomaterials.
Au Supported TiO2-Nanofibers as Novel Catalysts for Glycerol Oxidation
Authors: Chornaja Svetlana , Drunka Reinis , Dubencovs Konstantins , Zhizhkuna Svetlana , Jankovica Dzidra , Kunakovs Janis , Krūmiņa Aija , Sile Elina
Published: February 2018

Composites of Au supported on the TiO2-nanofibers (Au/NF-TiO2) were synthesized and tested in glycerol oxidation processes. TiO2-nanofibers were prepared by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis method. Chemical deposition method was used for nanofibers modification with Au nanoparticles. Oxidation of aqueous glycerol solutions by molecular oxygen in the presence of Au/NF-TiO2 nanocomposites was performed. It was found that Au/NF-TiO2 composites are catalytically active in alkaline glycerol water solutions. The main product of glycerol catalytic oxidation was glyceric acid, by-products were – tartronic, lactic, glycolic, oxalic, acetic and formic acid. It was shown that Au/NF-TiO2 catalysts’ activity and selectivity depend on Au weight loading, glycerol/Au molar ratio, oxygen pressure and NaOH initial concentration. The best result was achieved using the 0.5 wt%Au/NF-TiO2 catalyst: selectivity by glyceric acid was 76% with glycerol conversion 100%.
Proteome Analysis of Colorectal Cancer Cell Line SW480 Released Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Nakurte Ilva , Jekabsons Kaspars , Zandberga Elina , Abols Arturs , Line Aija , Muceniece Ruta
Published: February 2018

The detection and profiling of disease-specific extracellular vesicles (EVs) from body fluids has been challenging research area during recent years. However, the question – can EVs surface proteins be exploited as a credible tool for early cancer diagnosis – is still not answered. Objective of the current study was to find out whether hypoxia induces differences in protein profiles of EVs released from hypoxic human colorectal cancer cells SW480 (EVHyp) and EVs released from these cells grown in normoxic conditions – EVNorm. Obtained results show differences in EVs surface protein samples. Some protein fragments were found only or mostly in EVHyp surface protein samples. Finding of one or two such EVHyp protein fragments allows us to suggest that deciphered EVHyp surface proteins might be indices of hypoxia-induced proteome changes and might serve as a hint to find a cancer specific protein.
Influence of Technological Parameters on Thermal Properties of Cordierite Ceramics
Authors: Rundans Maris , Sedmale Gaida , Krūmiņa Aija , Ivdre Aiga
Published: February 2018

Porous cordierite ceramic samples have been prepared by using 33% of two carbonate-containing illite clays as substitutes for the necessary synthetic ingredients. The changes of thermal (CTE) and mechanical properties (compressive strength, modulus of elasticity), as well as phase content, apparent porosity and bulk density have been investigated in regards to gradual changes in maximum sintering temperature. It can be affirmed that these properties strongly depend on the thermal parameters of sintering as well as slightly upon differences in chemical composition of composition substitutes.
A Study on Friction Stir Welding Process for AA2219/AA2195 Joints
Authors: Lee Ho Sung , No Koo Kil , Yoo Joon Tae , Yoon Jong Hoon
Published: February 2018

The object of this study was to study mechanical properties of friction stir welded joints of AA2219 and AA2195. AA2219 has been used as an aerospace materials for many years primarily due to its high weldability and high specific strength in addition to the excellent cryogenic property so to be successfully used for manufacturing of cryogenic fuel tank for space launcher. Relatively new Aluminum-Lithium alloy, AA2195 provides significant saving on weight and manufacturing cost with application of friction stir welding. Friction stir welding is a solid-state joining process, which use a spinning tool to produce frictional heat in the work piece. To investigate the effect of the rotation direction of the tool, the joining was performed by switching the positions of the two dissimilar alloys. The welding parameters include the travelling speed, rotation speed and rotation direction of the tool, and the experiment was conducted under the condition that the travelling speed of the tool was 120-300 mm/min and the rotation speed of the tool was 400-800 rpm. Tensile tests were conducted to study the strength of friction stir welded joints and microhardness were measured with microstructural analysis. The results indicate the failure occurred in the relatively weaker TMAZ/HAZ interface of AA2219. The optimum process condition was obtained at the rotation speed of 600-800 rpm and the travelling speed of 180-240 mm/min.
Hydroxyapatite/Polyvinyl Alcohol Composite Hydrogels for Bone and Cartilage Tissue Engineering
Authors: Timofejeva Anna , Loca Dagnija
Published: February 2018

Composite hydrogels on the basis of hydroxyapatite (HAp) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) has been proposed as a promising materials for bone and cartilage tissue engineering. HAp/PVA composite hydrogels with phase ratio 50:50wt% and 70:30wt% were obtained via in situ wet chemical precipitation technique in combination with the freeze-thawing approach. The XRD studies of sintered products revealed that HAp/PVA composite hydrogels synthesized from PVA with degree of hydrolysis (DH) 98% and molecular weights (MW) 25 kDa and 78 kDa are more suitable for biomedical purposes due to the formation of stoichiometric HAp. Swelling studies indicated that HAp/PVA 50:50 (78 kDa, 88% and 98%) hydrogels after 24h of immersion swell ~4.25-6.5 times less than identical samples with phase composition of 70:30wt%, which is accounted to different number of intermolecular hydrogen bonds formed. After 16 subsequent freeze-thawing cycles (FTC), HAp/PVA 50:50 (78 kDa, 88% and 98%) hydrogels contain ~1.2 times higher content of crosslinked PVA than HAp/PVA 70:30 (78 kDa, 88% and 98%) hydrogel samples.
Ground motions in Yukon from the Tatshenshini-Alsek Park earthquakes of 2017 compared to 2015 Canadian seismic design levels
Authors: Kolaj M
Published: February 2018

The two magnitude 6 earthquakes on May 1, 2017 were felt in the regions of Haines Junction and Whitehorse, YT and minor damage was reported. Five-percent damped spectral accelerations calculated from a seismograph situated near Haines Junction suggest that the
first event had stronger ground motions than the second, even though the second had the larger magnitude. In Haines Junction, spectral accelerations reached approximately 1 % to 7.5 % of the 2015 seismic hazard design values (e.g. 3 % at 0.2 s). While the seismograph in Whitehorse was
not operational at the time, the predicted motions from the event reached 5 % to 22 % of the design values (e.g. 12 % at 0.2 s for the first event). The higher percentages are largely due to the lower seismic hazard design values for Whitehorse. The results in this work are given for
firm ground conditions (site class C), and varying local conditions could amplify or reduce these values.
A unique case of primary intracranial melanoma
Authors: Sarmast Arif , Mujtaba Basharat , Bhat Abdul , Kirmani Altaf , Tanki Humam
Published: February 2018

Primary intracranial melanoma is an uncommon entity and only case reports have been published in the literature. We report a case of an elderly male who was operated with a preliminary diagnosis of meningioma, but it proved to be a histological surprise as it came out to be melanoma with no primary anywhere in the body.
Endovascular Management of Arterial Injuries Related to Venous Access: A Retrospective Review of 10‑Year Single-Center Experience
Authors: Arabi Mohammad , Almutairi Abdullah , Alangari Abdulaziz Abdullah , Alamri Mohammad Mari , Alharbi Abdulaziz , Alvi Abdulrahman , Shahbaz Qazi , Alzahrani Yousof , Bashir Omar , Khankan Azzam , Dulaigan Essam , Salman Refaat , Almoaiqel Mohammad
Published: February 2018

Purpose: Retrospective review of the pattern and management techniques of arterial injuries related to central venous access with long-term outcomes. Materials and Methods: Between January 2007 and November 2017, a total of 20 patients (13 females) were included with the mean age of 63 (28–89 years) and mean body mass index of 25.75 (13.3–36.5). Venous access procedures included central venous catheter (CVC) placement, dialysis line insertion, or endovascular venous procedures. The study excluded patients who had arterial injuries related to arterial access, such as postarterial line placement, postangiography, or percutaneous coronary interventions. Results: Iatrogenic arterial injuries occurred after attempted venous access procedures involving the common femoral vein (n = 18) and subclavian vein (n = 2). Injuries were related to CVC placement (n = 5), temporary dialysis catheter (n = 14), and inferior vena cava filter insertion (n = 1). Nine patients had transarterial venous catheter insertion complicated by active bleeding from pseudoaneurysm and arteriovenous fistula. Other injuries included isolated fistula (n = 3), isolated pseudoaneurysm (n = 4), isolated branch injury (n = 2), and intra-arterial insertion (n = 2). Endovascular management included stent–graft placement (n = 14), embolization of bleeding vessel (n = 2), and thrombin injection for pseudoaneurysm (n = 2). Conservative management with manual compression achieved hemostasis in two patients. Technical success was achieved in 100%. One patient required repeat angiography and embolization of bleeding branch vessel following stent–graft placement to control bleeding fistula and pseudoaneurysm. Clinical success was achieved in all patients. Procedure-related complications included puncture site hematoma (n = 1) and partially occlusive thrombus/spasm of deep femoral artery after stent–graft placement. Six patients (33%) died within 20 days after the procedure (3–20 days) due to other comorbidities. Three additional patients (16%) died during the same hospital admission at the time of the procedure (38–114 days). There were no reported complaints related to possible stent–graft stenosis or occlusion at mean follow-up time of 5 years (50 days–8.64 years) in all seven patients who survived after stent–graft placement procedure. Conclusion: Despite technically successful endovascular management of arterial injuries related to venous access in critically ill patients, the mortality rate remains high due to other comorbidities. Allowing for the small sample size, stent–graft placement for arterial injuries in this cohort of patients appears to be an effective option with high long-term patency rate.
Percutaneous Endovascular Sapheno‑Femoral Bypass for Treatment of Chronic Iliac Vein Stent Occlusion
Authors: Ahmed Osman S. , Loanzon Roberto Santos , Arslan Bulent
Published: February 2018

We report a case of a 45-year-old female with a history of chronic iliac vein and inferior vena cava (IVC) occlusion, who presented with diffuse bilateral lower limb edema and pain secondary to severe postthrombotic syndrome. Computed tomography and digital subtraction angiography demonstrated reocclusion in the patient's previously placed iliofemoral and IVC stents. Recanalization was achieved with a percutaneous endovascular bypass approach after unsuccessful attempts using standard and other advanced endovascular techniques including sharp needle and radiofrequency wire recanalization.
Cerebral contusion: An investigation of etiology, risk factors, related diagnoses, and the surgical management at a major government hospital in Cambodia
Authors: Hilmer Louise , Park Kee , Vycheth Iv , Wirsching Michael
Published: February 2018

Introduction: Cerebral contusions are a common type of injury among the Cambodian population, mostly due to road traffic accidents. This article aims to assess various aspects around brain contusion focusing on the condition at admission, residing province, mechanism and time of injury, age and sex distribution with differing helmet wearing, and alcohol consumption patterns. Hospitalization-related data such as treatment and outcome were analyzed. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of 406 cases who have been admitted during the period between May 2013 and May 2016. Results: Two hundred and ninety-five (75.51%) of the patients came from rural areas, 312 (76.84%) were male (mean age 31.17 ± 12.90 years for males and 38.5 ± 16.29 years for females). The average hospital stay amounted to 10.51 ± 6.67 days. One hundred and eight two cases (52.29%) happened between 4.00 and 11.00 p.m. Three hundred and nineteen (79%) of the injured patients were motorcycle drivers and 18% pedestrians. Male patients had an alcohol involvement in 135 (49.45%) (females in 5 [6.25%]) cases and 26 (10%) wore a helmet (females in 5 [6.25%]). Surgery was performed in 82 cases, specifically craniotomy and craniectomy +/− elevation of a depressed skull fracture. Two hundred and ninety-six (73.09%) patients showed related second diagnosis, mostly subdural hematoma in 96 (32.43%) and epidural hematoma in 63 (21.28%) cases. Fifty patients (13.16%) had a Glasgow Coma Scale of 3–8. 92 (24.21%) of 9–12 and 238 (62.63%) of 13–15 on admission. Most of the patients were discharged with an improved status 324 (91.52%) according to the Glasgow Outcome Scale 4 or 5. Conclusion: The severity and resulting neurologic impairment of cerebral contusions show the importance of more in-depth research and prevention programs.
The effect of hand exercise on reducing the symptoms in hemodialysis patients with carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Unver Seher , Akyolcu Neriman
Published: February 2018

Context: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common peripheral neuropathies, and there is no consensus on the preferred method of treatment. Aims: The aim of this study is to determine the effects of hand exercise performed with a ball on symptoms and to evaluate the results in hemodialysis (HD) patients with CTS. Settings and Design: This study was conducted in patients with HD who were treated in dialysis centers and state hospitals in Turkey between 2011 and 2012. Subjects and Methods: This study included 19 patients (28 hands) that were diagnosed as CTS. For exercise treatment, a hand and finger exercise ball that consists of two parts: a foam body and flexible rubber cords was used. Patients placed their fingers through each cord, squeezed it for 1 s, and then opened their fingers against the cord for 1 s. Patients repeated this exercise for 30 s to 1 min/day. Statistical Analysis Used: The McNemar, Friedman ANOVA, and the Wilcoxon test with a Bonferroni correction were used on SPSS 20.0 software package program. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Results showed that recovery was performed from physical examination results, grip strength, and Boston questionnaire scores. About 21.4% of patients' electrophysiological results were negative at the end of the 1st month and 32.1% of them at the end of the 3rd month. Conclusion: Due to the slowed progress of CTS and detection of slight improvement in evaluation parameters, this self-applicable and practical exercise can be used as an alternative treatment of mild CTS in patients with HD.
Point Mutations at gyrA and gyrB Genes of Levofloxacin-Resistant Helicobacter pylori Isolates in the Esophageal Mucosa from a Venezuelan Population
Authors: López-Gasca Mariela , Peña Jessy , García-Amado María-Alexandra , Michelangeli Fabián , Contreras Monica
Published: February 2018

The treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection is complicated by antibiotic resistance. A high levofloxacin (LVX) resistance rate was previously demonstrated in H. pylori isolates from gastric mucosa (40%) and esophagus (19%) in individual hosts of a Venezuelan population. We aimed to assess the molecular mechanisms of LVX resistance and susceptibility in isolates from the gastroesophageal mucosa, by studying point mutations in the quinolone resistance–determining region of gyrA and gyrB genes. Sequencing of gyrA and gyrB genes (N = 120) helped to identify point mutations in 60 isolates (30 from antrum and 30 from esophagus) of five dyspeptic patients. Double (Asn87Thr and Asp91Asn) and single (Asn87Ile or Asn87Thr) mutations in the gyrA gene were identified in the esophageal mucosa. These mutations have been commonly found in the stomach. Occurrence of a single (Asn87Ile) mutation was associated with high resistance (minimum inhibitory concentration ≥ 32 μg/mL) to LVX. Only a single (Ser479Gly) mutation was found in the gyrB gene in both mucosae. One patient presented isolates with no mutations in the two genes studied. Isolates with the same mutation pattern in individual hosts revealed identical genetic profiles for these genes, confirming that isolates identified in the esophageal mucosa come from isolates colonizing the stomach. Helicobacter pylori resistance to LVX in the esophagus is related to double- and single-point mutations in gyrA and gyrB genes, such as those found in the stomach. Levofloxacin should be applied with caution, because its antibiotic effect on H. pylori is decreasing in Latin America, perhaps owing to high prescription rates.
Island-Wide Surveillance of Gastrointestinal Protozoan Infection on Fiji by Expanding Lymphatic Filariasis Transmission Assessment Surveys as an Access Platform
Authors: Kim Sung Hye , Rinamalo Milika , Rainima-Qaniuci Meleresita , Talemaitoga Nemani , Kama Mike , Rafai Eric , Lowry John H. , Choi Min-Ho , Hong Sung-Tae , Verweij Jaco J. , Kelly-Hope Louise , Stothard J. Russell
Published: February 2018

As part of lymphatic filariasis (LF) transmission assessment surveys (TAS) on Fiji, an island-wide assessment of gastrointestinal protozoan infection was performed by inspection of a concomitant stool sample collection to investigate the distribution of parasitic protozoa. All grade 1 and 2 students of 69 schools on the two main islands were targeted in two phases (one in the Western Division and the other in the Central and Northern Divisions, except Taveuni sub-Division of Northern), where fecal samples of 1,800 students were available for coproscopy using formalin-ether-acetate concentration. The overall prevalence of Giardia infection was 1.6%, having 2.2% in Western and 0.8% in Central/Northern Divisions (P = 0.094). The school-level prevalence of giardiasis ranged from 0% to 15.4%, and hotspot analysis using the Getis-Ord Gi* method detected spatial heterogeneity of giardiasis prevalence in schools around Lautoka (Z-score = 3.36, P value < 0.05), an area affected by Cyclone Kofi in February 2014. Any protozoan infection prevalence was 4.9% in Western and 4.4% in Central/Northern Divisions (P = 0.825). Real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis to confirm the findings from a parasitological examination of a 10% stool archive in 95% ethanol from Western Division revealed an elevated prevalence of giardiasis up to 22.4%, the presence of Entamoeba histolytica, and the absence of Cryptosporidium parvum. Obtaining stool samples alongside LF TAS is a convenient access platform for cosurveillance of gastrointestinal protozoan infection and has pinpointed hitherto unknown hotspots of giardiasis in urban city centers of Fiji. This calls for greater attention to apply tailored water, sanitation and hygiene measures for the control of these parasites.
Case Report: A Case of Severe Cerebral Malaria Managed with Therapeutic Hypothermia and Other Modalities for Brain Edema
Authors: Gad AbdAllah , Ali Sajjad , Zahoor Talal , Azarov Nick
Published: February 2018

Malarial infections are uncommon in the United States and almost all reported cases stem from recent travelers coming from endemic countries. Cerebral malaria (CM) is a severe form of the disease usually affecting children and individuals with limited immunity. Despite proper management, mortality from CM can reach up to 25%, especially when it is associated with brain edema. Inefficient management of the edema may result in brain herniation and death. Uniform guidelines for management of CM-associated brain edema are lacking. In this report, we present a case of CM with associated severe brain edema that was successfully managed using a unique combination of therapeutic hypothermia, hypertonic saline, mannitol, and hyperventilation along with the antimalarial drugs quinidine and doxycycline. Our use of hypothermia was based on its proven benefit for improving neurological outcomes in post-cardiac arrest patients and previous in vitro research, suggesting its potential inhibitory role on malaria growth.
Cutting off the Queue for Faith, Preserving the Queue for Face: Chinese Muslims’ Queue-Cutting Movements in North China during the Xinhai Revolution Period
Authors: UNNO-YAMAZAKI Noriko
Published: February 2018

This article attempts to relativise the nationalism of Chinese-speaking Muslims, which has tended to be overemphasised in previous studies, focusing on a movement in which Muslims in North China cut off their braids or queues––Manchu men’s traditional hairstyle imposed on Chinese people under the Qing rule––and related debates among the Muslim elite before and after the Xinhai Revolution. Unlike some Chinese men who cut off their braids for patriotic reasons or anti-Manchu sentiment, Muslims did so for religious reasons, arguing that Islam forbids queues because they look like the tail of a pig, an animal considered to be unclean in their religion. It is notable that some Muslims simply followed the social trend among the majority and cut off their queues, while a young Muslim scholar in Tianjin chose not to do so to prevent conflicts among Muslims and save face. This study thus illustrates the complex and diverse opinions of Muslims at that time, which cannot be completely explained by patriotism or piety.
Islamic and Comparative Philosophy – An Assessment of a Special Issue of Synthesis Philosophica
Authors: ROŠKER Jana S.
Published: February 2018

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Medkulturni pristop k Li Zehouhevi teoriji sedimentacije – primerjava z Jungovimi arhetipi
Authors: SERNELJ Tea
Published: February 2018

Avtorica v članku podaja kontrastivno analizo Li Zehoujevega koncepta sedimentacije in koncepta arhetipov C. G. Junga. Članek najprej podrobno predstavi koncept sedimentacije in pokaže, zakaj pri njem ne gre samo za estetski, temveč tudi za kulturno-psihološki pojem. Na osnovi tovrstne predstavitve Lijeve konceptualizacije in teoretskih osnov sedimentacije avtorica kritično primerja ta pojem z Jungovimi arhetipi. Članek nazorno prikaže, da so razlike med obema konceptoma zelo daljnosežne, saj nakazujejo splošno oziroma paradigmatsko razliko med referenčnima okviroma prevladujočih zahodnih diskurzov na eni in specifično kitajske teorije na drugi strani.
The Dynamics of Islamic Ideology with Regard to Gender and Women’s Education in South Asia
Authors: ALI Forkan
Published: February 2018

The article presents an investigation on certain anthropological-social aspects and the social organization of women with a focus on female education and women’s rights in Islam in South Asia, and especially in the subcontinent. It starts with the Moghul period and then turns to the colonial era and contemporary developments. Through the movement for independence from colonial rule of Britain, the Muslim identity in the South Asian region rose in a state of transformation, reform and development. This occurred due to several factors that encouraged the regeneration and reviewing of Indian society in response to the condemnation, discrimination and chauvinism of their colonial rulers and their deep-seated legacy. Women of the society, who were censured to be subjugated by the native men as entitled by colonial rulers, empowered this transformation by taking direct and indirect participation in it even though patriarchal norms and mind-sets have been a durable feature of South Asian society, cutting across faith communities and social strata, including the Hindu, Buddhist and other non-Islamic traditions on the subcontinent. While religious arguments are generally used in efforts to preserve the asymmetrical status of men and women in economic, political, and social arenas, this investigation attempts to show that religious traditions in South Asia are not monolithic in their perceptions of gender and women’s education. The structure of gender roles in these traditions is a consequence of various historical practices and ideological influences. Today, there is a substantial variability within and between religious communities concerning the social status of women. At different times and in different milieus, religious points of view have been deployed to validate male authority over women and, in opposition, to call for more impartial gender relations.
O constitucionalismo pluralista e o desenvolvimento humano: estudo comparado das experiências do Peru e da Bolívia
Authors: Vidal Marcílio Pompeu Gina , Saboia Jessica Ramos
Published: February 2018

Por meio do presente estudo tem-se como propósito analisar a necessidade de reconhecimento das diversidades dos direitos coletivos e a influência do constitucionalismo pluralista no desenvolvimento humano por meio de estudo comparado do Peru e da Bolívia. Incluir o direito dos povos indígenas entre as prioridades políticas constitui desafio jurídico e econômico na América Latina. A metodologia utilizada foi analítica, empírica e crítica com a investigação do tipo documental-bibliográfica, pesquisa pura de abordagem qualitativa, descritiva e exploratória quanto aos objetivos. Objetiva-se discutir o constitucionalismo latino-americano e a tendência plurinacional. E demonstrar a efetividade constitucional e a necessidade de cooperação entre o público e o privado no reconhecimento dos povos indígenas para a conciliação do desenvolvimento humano com o crescimento econômico. Entende-se que a Constituição da Bolívia é plurinacional, assim mais avançada no ciclo progressivo do que a do Peru que é pluricultural. Pondera-se, contudo, que apenas reconhecimentos formais de direitos e garantias dos povos indígenas, com constituições plurinacionais, não garantem desenvolvimento humano, principalmente se não se fizerem acompanhadas pela democratização econômica.
O PROJETO DE LEI DE PROTEÇÃO DE DADOS PESSOAIS (PL 5276/2016) NO MUNDO DO BIG DATA: O FENÔMENO DA DATAVEILLANCE EM RELAÇÃO À UTILIZAÇÃO DE METADADOS E SEU IMPACTO NOS DIREITOS HUMANOS
Authors: Jacob de Menezes Neto Elias , Bolzan de Morais Jose Luis , Lima Bezerra Tiago José de Souza
Published: February 2018

A utilização de metadados por entidades públicas e privadas é uma realidade que ganhou vida a partir dos avanços da tecnologia da informação com o fenômeno da Globalização. Ao abordar o tema da vigilância eletrônica, por meio de uma estratégia metodológica de caráter fenomenológico-hermenêutico e transdisciplinar, este artigo pretende analisar os impactos da utilização desses dados nos direitos humanos, e a tentativa de o Estado regulamentar seu uso por meio de instrumentos normativos, como o projeto de lei de proteção de dados no Brasil (PL 5276/2016). Verifica-se, por meio das análises feitas, que o fenômeno da surveillance atinge muito mais que a privacidade, sendo um fator determinante para a violação da dignidade, e propulsor da segregação social, sendo os instrumentos jurídicos atuais de controle da vigilância eletrônica insuficientes para a proteção efetiva dos dados pessoais diante das ideias de desterritorialidade e desespacialidade associadas ao enfraquecimento da soberania moderna. Finalmente, a originalidade deste trabalho demonstra-se por meio da falta de estudos no Brasil sobre a surveillance, e a superação da ideia simplória de que esse fenômeno atinge, apenas, a privacidade, sendo um fator determinante para a segregação social e desigualdade.
TERRITÓRIO DAS CRIPTOMOEDAS: LIMITES À REGULAMENTAÇÃO ESTATAL QUANTO À CIRCULAÇÃO DE MOEDAS NO CIBERESPAÇO E POSSÍVEIS ALTERNATIVAS
Authors: Souza Ranidson Gleyck Amâncio
Published: February 2018

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar a possibilidade da instituição de normas legais para regulamentar a circulação das criptomoedas no ciberespaço. A metodologia utilizada se baseia na verificação das leis e doutrinas pertinentes à matéria, bem como em literaturas de diferentes ciências, dada a interdisciplinaridade pertinente aos temas relativos à Tecnologia da Informação, investigando o possível tratamento jurídico a ser dado às criptomoedas. A virtualidade do ciberespaço implica numa condição diversa daquela verificada no ordenamento legislativo, visto que o Estado pressupõe a existência de um território material sobre o qual exerce sua soberania. O ciberespaço, por sua vez, é desmaterializado, neutro, depositário da conjugação de todas as pessoas e Estados ao mesmo tempo, sendo juridicamente impossível que um destes institua leis sem que estas atentem contra a soberania de outros, resultando na descentralização das criptomoedas. Ante a tal condição, busca-se encontrar alternativas que permitam a uma possível regulamentação aos negócios jurídicos monetizados através de criptomoedas, apontando para duas sugestões: a criação de leis supranacionais – tratados; ou consentir que a circulação das moedas virtuais se autorregule através da conduta dos usuários, que naturalmente adotarão uma postura, dentro do conjunto de valores e preceitos por eles mesmos considerados. Tal prática resultará num costume que servirá tanto para dirimir os conflitos, bem como de base para aqueles que desejam utilizar moedas virtuais. Este artigo apresenta uma vertente original sobre o tratamento jurídico das criptomoedas, servindo de referência a todos os operadores do Direito que desejam pesquisar sobre o assunto.
O CYBERBULLYING E OS LIMITES DA LIBERDADE DE EXPRESSÃO
Authors: Viana Janile Lima , Meneses Maia Cinthia , Barrozo de Albuquerque Paulo Germano
Published: February 2018

Este artigo tem como objetivo o estudo das relações entre o cyberbullying e o direito fundamental à liberdade de expressão. Primeiramente, será feita uma abordagem acerca da Internet, ressaltando aspectos relevantes, sua criação e desenvolvimento no Brasil. Ainda nesse tópico é estudada a esfera privada e sua invasão à esfera pública e, por fim, a criação do Marco Civil da Internet. No tocante ao cyberbullying, destaca-se que este é uma espécie de bullying no meio virtual, que se utiliza, muitas vezes, da liberdade de expressão como forma de justificar as ofensas aos direitos à imagem e à honra. No quarto tópico a liberdade de expressão estudada, ressaltando-se que, apesar de ser um direito fundamental do ser humano, não pode ser considerada como absoluta, tendo como limites os direitos da personalidade. Ao final, entende-se que o cyberbullying é um problema de saúde pública mundial, uma vez que as consequências são devastadoras, de tal maneira que são necessárias tutelas jurídicas específicas para inibir a prática desses atos. A metodologia empregada foi qualitativa e teórica, mediante a análise descritiva, delineada por meio de pesquisa científica bibliográfica.
BITCOIN E A (IM)POSSIBILIDADE DE SUA PROIBIÇÃO: UMA VIOLAÇÃO À SOBERANIA DO ESTADO?
Authors: Teixeira Rodrigo Valente Giublin , Da Silva Felipe Rangel
Published: February 2018

Pelo presente se busca analisar o fenômeno da moeda eletrônica Bitcoin e o impacto jurídico por esta causado, especialmente no que cerne ao confronto aparente com a soberania estatal, uma vez que dada sua internacionalidade e a dificuldade ou impossibilidade de proibição do uso, poder-se-ia em um primeiro momento vislumbrar ofensa ao instituto jurídico, o que será desmistificado. Para tanto, utilizou-se de pesquisa bibliográfica, especialmente estrangeira, dado o ainda ineditismo do tema, com autores de áreas distintas da ciência jurídica, pois assim exigido para análise das questões técnicas de funcionamento da ferramenta e também para delimitação do impacto financeiro causado pela nova moeda, emprestando conceitos e institutos da ciência econômica para aplicação. Contudo, apesar de necessário, o aprofundamento interdisciplinar se restringe ao suficiente para possibilitar a análise jurídica, a qual se dá, por sua vez, em âmbito de Direito Público, não se tendo conhecimento de análise anterior realizada sob o mesmo prisma.
BLOCKCHAIN E AGENDA 2030
Authors: Mendes Thame Denny Danielle , Paulo Roberto Ferreira , De Castro Douglas
Published: February 2018

O presente artigo tem o objetivo de analisar a Agenda 2030 frente à possibilidade do uso de plataformas digitais para implementar políticas públicas, integrando indivíduos, empresas e governos. Primeiro discorre sobre as características da Agenda 2030, na sequência identifica as iniciativas já aplicadas de uso de tecnologia para implementar a governança socioambiental, para então apontar as falhas técnicas com relação aos mecanismos de monitoramento atual e apresentar as vantagens que o uso da tecnologia de contabilidade distribuída poderia trazer. A conclusão principal do trabalho é que o monitoramento é fundamental para a efetividade das ferramentas de governança global que visem implementar os Objetivos do Desenvolvimento Sustentável da Agenda 2030 e que o uso do blockchain tem muito a contribuir para coordenar interesses antagônicos na busca de metas comuns, quantificáveis e verificáveis. A metodologia escolhida foi a análise qualitativa com pesquisa documental, legislativa e bibliográfica.
Man, Animal, Other: The intersections of Racism, Speciesism and Problematic Recognition within Indigenous Australia
Authors: Wewer Elena
Published: February 2018

This paper explores the parallels between racism and speciesism, to argue that the colonial ‘othering’ and subjugation of Indigenous Australians reflects the domestication of farmed animals.