bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Completing the Cervical Screening Pathway: Factors that Facilitate the Increase of Self-Collection Uptake among Under-Screened and Never-Screened Women, an Australian Pilot Study
Authors: McLachlan E. , Anderson S. , Hawkes D. , Saville M. , Arabena K.
Published: March 2018

Objectives: To examine factors that enhance under-screened and never-screened women’s completion of the selfcollection alternative pathway of the Renewed National Cervical Screening Program (NCSP) in Victoria, Australia. Background: With the Australian NCSP changing, starting on 1 December 2017, the Medical Services Advisory Committee (msac) recommended implementing human papillomavirus (hpv) testing using a self-collected sample for under-screened and never-screened populations. In response, a multi-agency group implemented an hpv selfcollection pilot project to trial self-collection screening pathways for eligible women. Methods: Quantitative data were collected on participation rates and compliance rates with follow-up procedures across three primary health care settings. Forty women who self-collected were interviewed in a semi-structured format, and seven agency staff completed in-depth interviews. Qualitative data were used to identify and understand clinical and personal enablers that assisted women to complete self-collection cervical screening pathways successfully. Results: Eighty-five per cent (10 women) of participants who tested positive for hpv successfully received their results and completed follow-up procedures as required. Two remaining participants also received hpvpositive results. However, agencies were unable to engage them in follow-up services and procedures. The overall participation rate in screening (self-collection or Pap test) was 85.7% (84 women), with 79 women self-collecting. Qualitative data indicated that clear explanations on self-collection, development of trusting, empathetic relationships with health professionals, and recognition of participants’ past experiences were critical to the successful completion of the self-collection pathway. When asked about possible inhibitors to screening and to following up on results and appointments, women cited poor physical and mental health, as well as financial and other structural barriers. Conclusion: A well-implemented process, led by trusted, knowledgeable, and engaged health care professionals who can provide appropriate support and information, can assist under-screened and never-screened women to complete the hpv self-collection pathway successfully.
Self-Sampling for Cervical Cancer Screening: Empowering Women to Lead a Paradigm Change in Cancer Control
Authors: Franco Eduardo L.
Published: March 2018

In this new era of precision medicine and patient-centred care, the advent of self-sampling in cervical cancer screening is among the most disruptive innovations in cancer control and prevention[...]
Updates from the 2017 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting: Practice-Changing Studies in Untreated Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Owen C. , Toze C. , Christofides A.
Published: March 2018

The 2017 annual meeting of the American Society of Hematology took place 9–12 December in Atlanta, Georgia. At the meeting, the oral presentations included results from key studies on the first-line treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. A series of phase ii studies focusing on the efficacy and safety of novel treatment strategies were especially notable. One concerned the health-related quality of life results from the gibb study, which had examined the combination of obinutuzumab and bendamustine. A second evaluated the venetoclax–ibrutinib regimen in patients with high-risk disease. The third assessed the combination of ibrutinib, fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and obinutuzumab in patients with mutated immunoglobulin heavy-chain variable region genes. The fourth examined the combination of ibrutinib, fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab in younger patients. And the final study evaluated obinutuzumab–ibrutinib followed by a minimal residual disease strategy in fit patients. Our meeting report describes the foregoing studies and presents interviews with investigators and commentaries by Canadian hematologists about the potential effects on Canadian practice.
Updates from the 2017 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting: Practice-Changing Studies in Relapsed and Refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Owen C. , Kuruvilla J. , Christofides A.
Published: March 2018

The 2017 annual meeting of the American Society of Hematology took place 9–12 December in Atlanta, Georgia. At the meeting, results from key studies in the treatment of relapsed and refractory mantle cell lymphoma were presented. Of those studies, oral presentations focused on the efficacy and safety of therapy with Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors. One study presented pooled data from three trials using ibrutinib, with a median follow-up of 3.5 years. A second phase ii study presented data on the efficacy and safety of acalabrutinib, a highly selective BTK inhibitor with minimal off-target activity. The final study presented early phase ib data on the efficacy and safety of zanubrutinib, a novel, highly selective BTK inhibitor, in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Our meeting report describes the foregoing studies and presents interviews with investigators and commentaries by Canadian hematologists about potential effects on Canadian practice.
Extrapulmonary tuberculosis among immigrants in a low-TB burden and high immigrant receiving city of northern Italy
Authors: Di Nuzzo Mariachiara , Trentini Alessandro , Grilli Anastasio , Massoli Lorenzo , Biagi Enrico , Maritati Martina , Contini Carlo
Published: March 2018

Introduction: The constantly increasing immigration flows are influencing tuberculosis (TB) epidemiology in several European countries as well as in Italy. Extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) incidence rate is not decreasing and, among immigrants, it occurs in a remarkable number of cases. This study aimed to provide further insights regarding EPTB among natives and immigrants in a low TB burden and high immigrant receiving setting.

Methodology: A total of 217 TB cases admitted to the University-Hospital of Ferrara from 2009 through 2015 were enrolled in the study. Clinical and demographical data including age, gender, origin, single comorbidities such as HIV status, chronic viral disease, chronic lung disease, diabetes, neoplasm, and multimorbidity were analyzed.

Results: Of the 217 cases enrolled, 60.0% were immigrants and 40.0% natives, 68.7% presented pulmonary TB and 31.3% EPTB. By binary logistic regression, we observed that female gender (O.R. (95% C.I.): 1.95 (1.08-3.50), p < 0.05), Asian origin (5.70 (2.00-16.24), p < 0.001) and multimorbidity (6.42 (2.37-17.41), p < 0.001) were significantly associated to the development of EPTB compared to PTB. Nodal TB was the most common site of reactivation (56.5% among immigrants and 27.3% among natives).

Conclusions: The data we found could be useful in increasing EPTB medical suspicion and decreasing EPTB diagnostic delay in low TB burden and high immigrant receiving settings.
Successful treatment of chronic hepatitis C in a hemodialysis
Authors: Milošević Ivana , Karić Uroš , Pešić-Pavlović Ivana , Stevanović Goran , Barać Aleksandra , Smiljanić Marijana , Arsenović Aleksandra , Stevanović Olja , Đonin-Nenezić Miljana , Brmbolić Branko
Published: March 2018

We present the first case of successful direct acting antiviral therapy of chronic hepatitis C in a hemodialysis patient in Serbia. The patient infected with genotype 1a has been successfully treated with Paritaprevir/Ritonavir/Ombitasvir/Dasabuvir and Ribavirin. There are only a few real world reports regarding this therapeutic option in hemodialysis patients.
Use of carbapenems and glycopepdides is significant risk for multidrug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infections
Authors: Hosoglu Salih , Arslan Eyup , Aslan Emel , Deveci Özcan
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDR-Ab) infections are an important healthcare problem globally. The aim of this study was to evaluate risk factors associated with MDR-Ab infections in hospitalized patients in Turkey.

Methodology: A case-control study was performed in a tertiary care 1,303-bed university hospital, among case patients with MDR-Ab infections. The hospital records of case and control patients were retrospectively evaluated over a year. Patients who were hospitalized in the same department and in the same time interval as the case patients, without MDR-Ab infection or colonization, were chosen for control group.

Demographic characteristics, Acute Physiology And Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores, comorbid diseases, use of invasive tools and duration of usage, and duration of use of antibiotics were recorded for all patients. Comparisons between case and control groups for possible risk factors were performed.

Results: In total, 95 cases and 95 controls were included in the study. Univariate analysis highlighted several variables as risk factors for MDR-Ab infections. Multivariate analysis showed that only antibiotic usage over seven days (OR = 2.38, CI = 1.18-4.83, p = 0.016) was found to be a significant risk factor. When antibiotic treatment patterns in both groups were compared, the use of carbapenems (p = 0.001) and glycopeptide antibiotics (p=0.001) in patient treatment were found significantly higher in the MDR-Ab case group.

Conclusion: This study showed us that previous antibiotic use is a significant risk factor for MDR-Ab infections. The use of carbapenems and glycopeptides should be considered as primary risk factors for developing MDR-Ab infection.
Seroepidemiology of leptospirosis in Guilan province, northern Iran: comparison between MAT and IgM-ELISA techniques
Authors: Araghian Afshin , Elmi Ali , Farahbakhsh Mojtaba , Hosseini Simin , Faezi Sobhan
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonotic disease which is endemic in Guilan province, Iran. Besides economic losses in the dairy industry, leptospirosis is also considered an important public health problem. This study aimed to evaluate two serological techniques, MAT and IgM-ELISA for detection of leptospiral antibodies.

Methodology: A total of 185 samples were collected from individuals in Guilan province suspected of having leptospirosis from April 2016 to December 2016. Sera from participants were analyzed for Leptospira IgM antibodies using an available ELISA test and the MAT method. The specificity and sensitivity of the tests were calculated and compared.

Results: Of the 185 serum samples examined 114 (61.6%) and 94 (50.8%) samples were determined to be positive by MAT and IgM-ELISA, respectively. The results also showed that 17.5% of the sera that reacted positive in MAT were negative by IgM-ELISA, and 20.2% of IgM-ELISA positive sera were negative by MAT. We also showed that the MAT had specificity and sensitivity of 100%, when compared to leptospirosis-positive and negative serum samples. The specificity and sensitivity of IgM-ELISA was calculated as 78.8% and 82.4% respectively when compared with MAT. Bivariate analysis showed high correlation between the season, community of residence, possible reasons of pollution and leptospirosis (
A cross-sectional analysis of intestinal parasitic infections among the general population in north of Iran
Authors: Pagheh Abdol Sattar , Sharif Mahdi , Daryani Ahmad , Yazdani-Charati Jamshid , Nazar Eisa , Asfaram Shabnam , Hosseini Seyed-Abdollah , Tork Mostafa , Soosaraie Masoud , Syadatpanah Abolghasem , Gholami Shirzad , Mirshafiee Siavash , Sarvi Shahabeddin
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infection (IPIs) is one of the most important health problems in the developing countries. Study on the prevalence of IPIs in various communities is a prerequisite for the development of appropriate control strategies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasites among the general population in Mazandaran province, northern Iran.

Methodology: This study was conducted on 4,788 specimens collected from 17 urban areas (2,515 samples) and 34 rural areas (2,273 samples) within January-December 2016. Fecal specimens were examined by direct wet mounting, formalin-ether concentration, modified Ziehl–Neelsen, and trichrome staining methods.

Results: The overall infection rate of intestinal parasite was 14.2% (680/ 4,788). Blastocystis hominis and Giardia lamblia were identified as the most frequent parasites. Protozoa, helminths, and polyparasitism (co-infections with two or more parasite species) were observed in 12.3%, 1.03%, and 0.85% of the specimens, respectively. Furthermore, IPIs showed a significant association with household income, place of residence, washing of vegetables, exposure to soil and season (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Based on the findings, parasitic infections are still a major public health concern in the north of Iran that requires special attention. Therefore, the major key to success in the prevention of IPIs is the execution of some interventions, including patient screening and treatment, public education, and improvement of sanitary conditions.
Assessment of vaginal microbiota in Brazilian women with and without bacterial vaginosis and comparison with Nugent score
Authors: Oliveira Laura Maria Andrade , Diniz Cláudio Galuppo , Fernandes Aline Augusta Sampaio , Souza-Sotte Daniele Maria Knupp , Freitas Michelle Cristine Ribeiro , Machado Alessandra Barbosa Ferreira , Silva Vania Lucia
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is characterized by the depletion of Lactobacillus spp. population and increase of other species, especially Gardnerella vaginalis and Atopobium vaginae. This study aimed to investigate the vaginal microbiota structure of Brazilian women with and without BV according to Nugent Score and to assess the correlation among Nugent score and the quantification of BV-associated bacteria.

Methodology: Polymerase Chain Reaction-Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) assay was employed to characterize the vaginal microbiota structure. Quantification of Lactobacillus spp., G. vaginalis, A. vaginae, Mobiluncus sp. and M. hominis were determined by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR).

Results: Clustering by PCR-DGGE revealed differences in microbial structure of the different patient groups. Gardnerella vaginalis, A. vaginae, M. hominis and Mobiluncus sp. were detected at high loads in BV-associated microbiota. Quantification of Lactobacillus spp. showed an inverse correlation with Nugent score while the loads of G. vaginalis, A. vaginae, M. hominis and Mobiluncus sp. indicated a direct correlation with this method.

Conclusions: Despite Nugent score is considered the gold standard for BV diagnosis, qPCR stands out as a useful tool for bacteria quantification and an alternative for BV diagnosis. Vaginal microbiota is a complex microbial community although there is a common core among BV and non-BV women. Investigation of vaginal microbiota structure may contribute to the development of tools for diagnosis improvement and therapeutic regimen optimization.
Perceptions towards the prescribing of antibiotics by pharmacists and the use of antibiotics in primary care in South Africa
Authors: Truter Ilse , Knoesen Brent C
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Antibiotics deserve their place a powerful pillar in modern medical care, but the development of antibiotic resistance is emerging faster than the availability of new antibiotics. This poses a major threat to public health. The primary aim was to determine the perceptions towards the prescribing of antibiotics by pharmacists and the use of antibiotics in primary care in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa.

Methodology: A questionnaire survey was conducted under community pharmacists during 2014. Purposive sampling was used.

Results: Eighty percent of pharmacists were of the opinion that antibiotics are overprescribed. Amoxicillin, or the combination of amoxicillin with clavulanic acid, was indicated by 87.5% of respondents as the most often dispensed in their pharmacies, with ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin and azithromycin also commonly dispensed. One specific trade name product was mentioned by 43.8% of respondents as the antibiotic product they most often dispense. The most common diagnoses for which antibiotics were dispensed were upper respiratory tract infections and sinusitis. On average, more females (60.0%) were dispensed antibiotics. Most antibiotics were dispensed to adults (44.4%) and children (23.1%). On the question whether respondents were of the opinion that pharmacists should prescribe antibiotics, 50.0% indicated that they do not agree and 31.3% agreed. The main reason was because pharmacists are not qualified to diagnose. However, with further training they should be able to diagnose minor ailments and counsel patients.

Conclusions: Pharmacists had mixed opinions on whether they should be able to prescribe antibiotics. Most pharmacists were of the opinion that antibiotics are overprescribed.
Distribution and Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern of Candida species at a Tertiary Hospital in Malaysia
Authors: Mohamed Nurul Azmawati , Pathmanathan Siva Gowri , Hussin Hazilawati , Zaini Adilahtul Bushro
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Invasive Candida infections cause significant mortality and morbidity worldwide. Information on recent trends in species distribution and antifungal resistance in local settings is essential.

Methodology: Yeast isolates identified through standard culture methods throughout 2014 and 2015 from Hospital Ampang, Malaysia were retrospectively studied. The antifungal susceptibility of Candida species was determined using colorimetric broth microdilution method and MIC values interpreted according to CLSI breakpoints.

Results: Out of all the 149 yeast cultures collected, most were from blood (55.7%) and respiratory specimens (33.6%). Candida tropicalis was the most common (28.9%), followed by C. albicans (26.2%), C. parapsilosis (15.4%), C. glabrata (14.1%), Crytococcus neoformans (6.7%), Trichosporon asahi (3.4%), C. krusei (2.0%), C. famata, C. rugose, C. guilliermondii, C. dublinensis and Trichosporon spp. (0.7% each). Occurrence of C. tropicalis in candidaemia cases was significantly associated to presence of an underlying haematological disorder, while C. albicans isolates in blood were significantly found in absence of such disorders. The four most common Candida species isolated showed high susceptibility to amphotericin B (100%), anidulafungin (100%), micafungin (100%), caspofungin (98.4%), flucytosine (98.4%) and voriconazole (84.1%). However, drug susceptibility to itraconazole and fluconazole was comparatively lower (57.9% and 72.2%, respectively). C. glabrata and C. tropicalis were the least susceptible to these azoles.

Conclusion: Prevalence of the high number of non-albicans Candida species with slight predominance of C. tropicalis over C. albicans was observed. Low susceptibility to itraconazole among C. glabrata and C. tropicalis isolates and to fluconazole among C. glabrata isolates warrants for continued surveillance to monitor emerging antifungal resistance.
The relationship between toxoplasmosis and different types of human tumors
Authors: Mostafa Nahed El Sayed , Abdel Hamed Enas Fakhry , Rashed Hayam El Sayed , Mohamed Salem Youssef , Abdelgawad Mohamed Soliman , Elasbali Abdelbaset Mohamed
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan that may disrupt the traditional cell barriers against cancer, allowing the accumulation of oncogenic mutations over time. Our research aimed to explore the relationship between T. gondii infection and tumor development.

Methodology: The anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies were tested for156 patients with tumors (51 with breast cancer, 20 with hepatoma, 20 with larynx carcinoma, 20 with squamous cell carcinoma of bone, 16 with lymphoma, 13 with brain tumor, 4 with bladder cancer and 12 with benign uterine tumor) and 90 healthy controls by using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Tissue specimens were collected from T. gondii seropositive cases for histological and immunohistochemistry (IHC) examinations. Results: The seroprevalence of human toxoplasmosis in the Sharkia Governorate, Egypt is significantly correlated with various types of tumors: breast cancer in 49 subjects (96.1%), and squamous cell carcinoma of bone in 16 subjects (80%). It was also present in nine cases of brain tumors. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG was detected in seven cases of liver tumors and one-quarter of bladder cancer. The anti- Toxoplasma IgM was present in three patients with benign uterine tumors, one patient with a bone tumor and two patients with breast cancer. Toxoplasma cysts were detected in immunostained brain sections.

Conclusion: The correlation between T. gondii infection and tumors was established by this study indicating a significant emerging role of human toxoplasmosis in the etiology or existence of particular types of tumors.
Virulence genes and resistance to antibiotics of beta-hemolytic streptococci isolated from children in Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: Gutiérrez-Jiménez Javier , Mendoza-Orozco Mónica Ivonne , Vicente-Serrano Alejandra , Luna-Cazáres Lorena Mercedes , Feliciano-Guzmán José Manuel , Girón-Hernández Jose Antonio , Vidal Jorge Eugenio
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Among beta-hemolytic streptococci, Streptococcus pyogenes causes a wide variety of human disease including pharyngitis, necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic syndrome. Group A Streptococcus (GAS) uses a variety of virulence traits to colonize and then cause damage to the host; others species of beta-hemolytic streptococci are considered as emerging pathogens for humans. Despite its recognized virulence, only few studies have investigated virulence factors of GAS strains isolated in Mexico.

Methodology: We conducted an epidemiological study to investigate the prevalence of GAS strains in child illnesses in Chiapas Mexico. Virulence genes encoding proteases, DNases, superantigens, as well as susceptibility to antibiotics were investigated.

Results: During 2010, 2013 and 2014, beta-hemolytic streptococci (N=12) were isolated from cases of bacterial infections including pharyngitis and bacteremia, with a prevalence of 0.42, 0.04 and 0.20%, respectively. S. pyogenes was the most frequent species (33%) followed by S. agalactiae and S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (25%, each). Most GAS strains encoded genes for proteases: scpA, speB, spyCEP and mac (75%), followed by sdaD and sdaB (DNases) (50%), speA and speG (superantigens; 50 and 25%, respectively). The scpA gene was amplified in all S. agalactiae strains and in ~35% of SDSE strains. Strains were all susceptible to beta-lactams, cephalosporins and quinolones.

Conclusions: The present study provides evidence on the epidemiology of beta-hemolytic streptococci infecting children at the southeast Mexico, their virulence traits and sensitivity to first-line antibiotics.
Distribution and antifungal susceptibility patterns of Candida species at a university hospital in Northern Turkey
Authors: Calgin Mustafa Kerem , Cetinkol Yeliz
Published: March 2018

Introduction: The aim of this study was to establish local resistance profiles of Candida species isolated from various clinical specimens by identifying isolates and determining their susceptibilities to commonly used antifungal agents.

Methodology: All isolates were identified to species level and amphotericin B, flucytosine, fluconazole, voriconazole, caspofungin and micafungin antifungal susceptibility testing was performed using Vitek 2 Compact Advanced Expert System (AES).

Results: The specimens consisted of 152 urines (69%), 49 blood (22%), 15 sputum (7%) and 4 wound (2%) samples. Of the 220 isolated Candida strains, the most prevalent species were Candida albicans (43.3%), Candida tropicalis (25%) and Candida parapsilosis (13.7%). In blood specimens C. parapsilosis was the dominant species (43%), followed by C. albicans (32.5%) and C. tropicalis (12.2%). Overall resistance to amphotericin B, flucytosine, fluconazole, voriconazole, caspofungin and micafungin was 7.3%, 10%, 9.4%, 7.3%, 2% and 6.5%, respectively.

Conclusions: Due to the increase in patient populations at risk of Candida infections, rational treatment planning and resistance rates should be checked along with antifungal susceptibility testing on C. albicans, C. tropicalis and C. parapsilosis isolates.
Noma and Noma-like disease in HIV/AIDS patients, a comorbid interaction: A systematic review
Authors: Prado-Calleros Héctor M , Castillo-Ventura Bertha B , Jiménez-Escobar Irma , Ramírez-Hinojosa Juan P , López-Gómez Antonio , García-de-la-Cruz Miguel , Dayan-Nurko Mijal
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Noma is an opportunistic polymicrobial infection that cause necrosis of the mouth and face, with high morbidity and mortality, predominantly affecting malnourished children and persons with debilitating diseases. Cases of noma-like disease in adults, although rare, have been increasingly reported in HIV/AIDS patients particularly in developing countries but also in more developed countries.

Methodology: A systematic review of the literature to assess the occurrence and clinical impact of noma and noma-like disease in HIV/AIDS patients was performed on PubMed, Virtual Health Library, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar using the keywords "HIV"[ All Fields] AND "Noma"[All Fields] in December 2016 (years includead for the search: 1985 to 2016).

Results: Twenty-four published studies were identified that document the occurrence of noma or noma-like disease in a total of 133 HIV/AIDS children and adult patients in the last 22 years. Although HIV infection is not the principal risk factor for noma, in some regions may play a substantial role in its pathogenesis. The mortality rate for noma-like disease in HIV/AIDS patients was 54.3%, compared to the 15% mortality rate of treated noma patients without HIV/AIDS. Most of the cases have never been on antiretroviral therapy, and their HIV infection was discovered because of the noma-like disease.

Conclusions: The syndemic interaction between HIV/AIDS and noma-like disease adversely impacts the severity of the disease and the mortality rate. Noma-like disease, although not yet considered a specific or frequent disease associated with HIV infection, should be considered as an opportunistic infection for AIDS.
Gemella hepatic abscesses: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Wilson Dib Rita , Matar Mireille , Hallak Rami , Farra Anna , Mokhbat Jacques
Published: March 2018

Gemella haemolysans is a rare cause of human disease, namely infective endocarditis and brain abscesses. We report herein a case of Gemella haemolysans liver abscess in an immunocompetent adult patient secondary to blunt liver trauma and successfully managed by medical-surgical approach.
The Journey of SSHE Audit Tracking System
Authors: Klunngien Chagun , Saengpoo Atchara , Boonchaiyutasak Jindarach
Published: March 2018

In PTT Exploration and Production PLC. (PTTEP), there are five (5) types of audit, i.e. SSHE MS, SSHE MS - Specific Subject, Technical Safety, Specialist, and OE Management System Audits of both Corporate and site levels. To effectively manage audit findings until closeout, the web-based Audit Tracking System (ATS) was developed and being used as a tool for capturing, handling and reporting the audit findings or nonconformities.

The design and development of web-based ATS are based on a standardised audit process as described in the ISO 19011:2011 Guidelines for auditing management systems. The ATS is constructed into three (3) main parts, including audit general information, audit finding and recommendation, and corrective and preventive action. By embedding electronic workflows within the system, audit finding corrective actions resulting from the root cause analysis will be systematically managed and closed out within a timely manner. Furthermore, system notifications (reminder and escalation notifications) and active dashboards categorised by the audited entity and audit report are built in the ATS.

As a result of the implementation of ATS since 2015, more than 90% of high severity audit findings related to both Corporate and site level audits are effectively closed out. Status of audit findings categorised by the audited entities and audit reports are centralised and real-time tracked and monitored. Resources and time used for managing assigned tasks as per audit process are optimised, particularly in terms of administrative cost and time-saving. Additionally, active dashboards provide all users with update status of audit findings. They are also used for data analysis and identifying areas of improvement.

With the web-based ATS functions, audit finding corrective actions can be taken into account in order to prevent recurrence or occurrence of non-conformance, and before potential hazards turn into major incidents.
Using Machine Learning to Create Data
Authors: Snøtun Håkon
Published: March 2018

Many facets of geology involve processing large sets of data, and recognizing patterns. Still, geology largely remains a qualitative study where professionals spend endless man-hours pouring through reports to build models for predictive analysis. Machine Learning is a subfield of analytics and computer science which is dedicated to using pattern recognition to build models. In traditional data analytics an algorithm is applied to data which then yields a result, but Machine Learning compares large sets of data with results from analysis to create an algorithm and models which can then be used for predictive analysis.

In this paper we will examine large sets of curve data from the Norwegian Continental Shelf, and compare it with the classifications for the stratigraphy and geological structures from the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate to build models using different Machine Learning strategies.

During the analysis the data and result sets are divided into three parts, where half is to build the model, and fourth is used as preliminary test set to improve the algorithm and the final fourth to test the final algorithm. The efficacy of the algorithm is determined by how close to the results of the final test set the model can classify the layers.

The results of this analysis can not only be used to classify stratigraphy for new wellbores with data, but also identify anomalies and errors in classification in the database. In addition, the algorithm can show which sensor data correlate and contribute to the classification of sedimentary layers.
Motives for Research
Authors: Fine Arthur
Published: March 2018

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Motivating Capital Investment by Using the Audit Process to Increase Financial Transparency
Authors: Cummings J Reid , Ramirez Gabriel G , Sharma Divesh S , Lahtinen Kyre D
Published: March 2018

This study examines the relationship between REITs’ uses of the audit process to increase financial transparency, and their ability to attract and/or maintain reasonable access to capital investment. We find that capital investment is positively and significantly associated with auditor quality, specialization, and reputation. After controlling for the effects of the 2007-2008 financial crisis, we find that when REITs seek to attract new capital investment, using the audit process to increase financial transparency is just as important before the crisis as after it. These findings suggest that regardless of the economic conditions, auditor quality, specialization, and reputation add value.This study examines the relationship between REITs’ uses of the audit process to increase financial transparency, and their ability to attract and/or maintain reasonable access to capital investment. We find that capital investment is positively and significantly associated with auditor quality, specialization, and reputation. After controlling for the effects of the 2007-2008 financial crisis, we find that when REITs seek to attract new capital investment, using the audit process to increase financial transparency is just as important before the crisis as after it. These findings suggest that regardless of the economic conditions, auditor quality, specialization, and reputation add value.
How does the Type of Task Influence the Performance and Social Regulation of Collaborative Learning?
Authors: Acuna Santiago Roger , Lopez-Aymes Gabriela , Acuna-Castillo Silvia T.
Published: March 2018

In this paper we analyze the effects of the type of collaborative task (elaboration of concept map vs elaboration of expository summary) on the performance and on the level of collaboration achieved by Mexican university students in the multimedia learning of a social sciences content (Communication Psychology). Likewise, the processes of social regulation that are put into play in these collaborative tasks are described. Forty-five students (17 women and 28 men) grouped in 15 triads participated in the study. Each triad was assigned to one of the two collaborative conditions: elaboration of concept map (8 groups) and elaboration of an expository summary (7 groups). It was monitored that there were no significant previous differences between two conditions regarding: reading comprehension, reading comprehension regulation strategies and domain-specific prior knowledge. To evaluate the performance in learning, the quality of the proposals made in concept maps and summaries were taken adapting the procedure proposed by Haugwitz, Nesbit and Sandmann (2010), and also the results obtained by the students in a multiple-choice questionnaire about the knowledge area. Likewise, the level of collaboration perceived by each member of the teams was examined using a Collaboration questionnaire developed by Chan and Chan (2011). The identification and characterization of the processes of social regulation was carried out through a qualitative analysis of the exchanges registered during the collaborative activity, considering the type (co-regulation and shared regulation) and the regulation orientation (directed to the task or to the management of collaboration). The quantitative results analysis showed the existence of significant effects working with collaborative concept maps in the knowledge acquired during the collaborative task and in some of the indicators of perceived collaboration. Although no significant statistical differences were found, in the teams that elaborated expository summaries, a predominance of episodes of regulation directed towards the cognitive activity of the collaborative task was observed, being scarce, in both conditions, the episodes of social regulation directed towards collaboration within the triads.
Periprosthetic Tibial Fractures
Authors: Born Christopher T. , Gil Joseph A. , Johnson Joey P.
Published: March 2018

Periprosthetic fractures around total knee arthroplasty have become an increasingly common and challenging orthopaedic problem. Appropriate management of these fractures depends on careful scrutiny of radiographs and a thorough clinical history to exclude the diagnosis of a periprosthetic infection. In a periprosthetic tibial fracture with a stable, well-aligned tibial component and well-aligned mechanical tibial axis, the fracture can be successfully managed with closed reduction and cast immobilization; meticulous follow-up is essential to ensure that the alignment is maintained. Major fracture displacement, tibial component instability, and tibial component malalignment are all indications for surgical intervention. The ideal surgical intervention depends on the fracture characteristics and the stability and alignment of the tibial component.
The Effectiveness of Cooperative Learning Activities in Enhancing EFL Learners’ Fluency
Authors: Alrayah Hassan
Published: March 2018

This research-paper aims at examining the effectiveness of cooperative learning activities in enhancing EFL learners’ fluency. The researcher has used the descriptive approach, recorded interviews for testing fluency as tools of data collection and the software program SPSS as a tool for the statistical treatment of data. Research sample consists of (48) first year-students, studying English language in the Faculty of Education at Omdurman Islamic University-Sudan. The students were divided into experimental and control groups for the requirement of the research-paper. The program of the experimental group lasted for a whole month in which much practice was conducted through the Cooperative Learning activities for enhancing the experimental group’s fluency. The most important result indicates a statistically significant correlation between the Cooperative Learning activities and the improvement of EFL learners’ oral fluency of speaking. The most important recommendation addresses the concerned authorities to train EFL teachers in the use of Cooperative Learning activities in the teaching/learning process for the purpose of furnishing to generalize their use in the various institutions where English language is studied.
The Impact of Securities Margin Trading on Chinese Stock Market
Authors: Chen Shaozhen , Su Liang , Lin Li , Zhou Chaoqun , Lin Haohui
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we take Shanghai Stock Market as the research object, conducts a multi-dimensional analysis of the volatility of the Shanghai Stock Exchange 50 Index before and after the introduction of margin trading. After the implementation of the securities margin trading policy, the historical volatility of the securities market has obviously been weakened. From the perspective of dynamic volatility, we establish a GARCH (1, 1) model by introducing the dummy variables according to the AIC and SC optimal rules, and establish TGARCH (1, 1), EGARCH (1, 1) and PGARCH (1, 1) to analyze the asymmetry. All of the model results show that the introduction of margin trading reduces the risk of the stock market and weakens the asymmetry. In order to test the effect of the residual distribution of returns, we assume that the residuals follow the t distribution and the GED distribution respectively and establish the optimal GARCH (1, 1) model. The final result is the same as those under the Gaussian distribution assumption.
Demographic Factors Affecting U.S. Households’ Investment in Stocks
Authors: Guragai Binod , Peabody S. Drew
Published: March 2018

Using survey data of U.S. households, we examine the demographic factors associated with stock market participation to seek to explain why some households invest in stocks while others do not. We primarily utilize Probit model estimation robust to heteroskedasticity to evaluate multiple demographic variables that could potentially explain direct stock ownership. Additional tests examine the demographic factors associated with the amounts of direct stock ownership and indirect stock ownership through mutual funds, retirement accounts or other avenues. Our results identify various demographic factors that most likely affect U.S. households’ investment in stocks, including age, gender, education level, income, homeownership and business ownership. These results are robust to multiple model variations. These findings may be of interest to financial scholars and policymakers as they seek to better understand stock market participation.
The Announcement of Unconventional Monetary Policy and the Exit Risk in the European Monetary Union
Authors: Canofari Paolo , Marcelletti Alessandra , Piersanti Giovanni
Published: March 2018

The introduction of unconventional monetary policy, pushing down the euro value, aims at strengthening the euro area, by increasing its competitiveness and boosting its economic growth. The goal of our paper is to offer a theoretical validation of these facts using a monetary union model in which a representative country and a common central bank strategically interact. The country can choose to stay in or opt out from the monetary union after a demand shock, while the central bank controls the exchange rate to preserve the stability of the union. Our main result is that the announcement of common exchange rate depreciation reduces the probability of a monetary union breakup.
CRISPR-Cas Systems in Prokaryotes
Authors: Burmistrz Michał , Pyrc Krzysztof
Published: March 2018

Prokaryotic organisms possess numerous strategies that enable survival in hostile conditions. Among others, these conditions include the invasion of foreign nucleic acids such as bacteriophages and plasmids. The clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats-CRISPR-associated proteins (CRISPR-Cas) system provides the majority of bacteria and archaea with adaptive and hereditary immunity against this threat. This mechanism of immunity is based on short fragments of foreign DNA incorporated within the hosts genome. After transcription, these fragments guide protein complexes that target foreign nucleic acids and promote their degradation. The aim of this review is to summarize the current status of CRISPR-Cas research, including the mechanisms of action, the classification of different types and subtypes of these systems, and the development of new CRISPR-Cas-based molecular biology tools.
Role of SAP7-10 and Morphological Regulators (EFG1, CPH1) in Candida albicans’ Hypha Formation and Adhesion to Colorectal Carcinoma Caco-2
Authors: Staniszewska Monika , Bondaryk Małgorzata , Żukowski Kamil , Chudy Michał
Published: March 2018

Secreted aspartic proteases (Saps) are considered as key virulence factors of Candida albicans. Hopefully our outlook will widen the knowledge of SAP7’s role in C. albicans pathogenesis. The goal of our study was to investigate SAP7 expression during C. albicans adhesion to intestinal human cells. Another objective was to study the role of SAP8-10 and transcriptional regulators: EFG1 and CPH1, using the mutants: Δsap, Δefg1, Δcph1 during growth on Caco-2 monolayer. SAP7 expression was analyzed using real time RT-PCR; relative quantification was normalized against ACT1 in cells after growth on Caco-2. Adherence assay of C. albicans to Caco-2 was performed in a 24-well-plate. The results proved that SAP7 can play a role during the initial adaptation of C. albicans to intestinal tract and decreases over time. Up-regulation of SAP7 occured in the absence of SAP8 and SAP10 (genetic alternations dependence). SAP7 can be regulated by the morphogensis’ regulators during C. albicans growth on epithelium. Adhesion of the mutants was indistinguishable from SC5314. The lack of neither SAP8-10 nor EFG1/CPH1 influences the adhesive behaviour of C. albicans. Deletion of SAP8-10 resulted in no filamentation defects. The results help better understand the role of SAP7 during adhesion and morphogenesis in C. albicans.
Bloodstream Infections due to Enterobacteriaceae Among Neonates in Poland – Molecular Analysis of the Isolates
Authors: Chmielarczyk Agnieszka , Pobiega Monika , Wojkowska-Mach Jadwiga , Romaniszyn Dorota , Heczko Piotr B. , Bulanda Malgorzata
Published: March 2018

Bloodstream infections (BSIs) are associated with a significantly increased risk of fatality. No report has been found about the molecular epidemiology of Enterobacteriaceae causing BSI in neonates in Poland. The aim of this work was to determine the antibiotic resistance profiles, virulence gene prevalence, the epidemiological and genetic relationships among the isolates from Enterobacteriaceae causing BSI in neonates with birth weight < 1501 g. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed. PCR was performed to identify the presence of common beta-lactamase genes, virulence genes. PFGE and MLST were performed. The surveillance group contained 1,695 newborns. The incidence rate for BSIs was 5.9%, the fatality rate 15%. The most common species were Escherichia coli (n = 24) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 16). CTX-M-15 was found in 6 E. coli, 8 K. pneumoniae, 1 Enterobacter cloacae strains. Among E. coli fimH (83.3%), ibeA (37.5%), neuC (20.8%) were the most frequent. PFGE demonstrated unique pulsotypes among E. coli. E. coli ST131 clone was found in 7 E. coli strains. PFGE of 16 K. pneumoniae strains showed 8 pulsotypes. Five isolates from one NICU belonged to one clone. MLST typing revealed 7 different ST with ST336 as the most prevalent. This study provides information about resistance, virulence and typing of Enterobacteriaceae strains causing BSI among neonates. E. coli and Klebsiella spp. isolated in this study have completely different epidemiology from each other.
Characterization of Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamases Produced by Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Dogs in Poland
Authors: Rzewuska Magdalena , Stefańska Ilona , Kizerwetter-Świda Magdalena , Chrobak-Chmiel Dorota , Szczygielska Paulina , Leśniak Monika , Binek Marian
Published: March 2018

Escherichia coli is a common cause of infections in companion animals. In recent years the increasing prevalence of resistance to β-lactams, including extended-spectrum cephalosporins, antimicrobials frequently used in small animal veterinary practice, was observed in canine isolates of E. coli. The aim of this study was to detect and to characterize extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) produced by E. coli isolated from diseased dogs in Poland. Four isolates out of 119 studied (3.4%) were ESBL-positive. They harbored the blaSHV-12, blaCTX-M-15, and blaTEM-116 genes. This study provides the first report of the occurrence of ESBL-producing E. coli in dogs in Poland.
The Effect of Fe3O4 Nanoparticles on Survival of Probiotic Bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus PCM2499 at Lower pH
Authors: Jurkowski Andrzej , Zapotoczny Bartłomiej , Kozioł Jacek J. , Dudek Mirosław R.
Published: March 2018

This paper presents a description of an experiment in which the survival rate of the probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus PCM2499 was increased only due to the presence of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles. The survival rate increased from 1.3 to 10 times compare to the control. It has been shown that the minimum concentration of NPs with a positive effect equals 8 mg/ml and the maximum concentration of the NPs equals 24 mg/ml.
Non-invasive Diagnostic of Helicobacter pylori in Stools by Nested-qPCR
Authors: Taborda María I. , Aquea Gisela , Nilo Yenny , Salvatierra Karla , López Nicolás , López Sergio , Bresky Gustavo , Madariaga Juan A. , Zaffiri Vittorio , Häberle Sergio , Bernal Giuliano
Published: March 2018

The aim of this study was to develop a non-invasive diagnostic test for the detection of Helicobacter pylori in stool samples from digestive symptomatic patients, using a new protocol of nested-qPCR. A total of 143 patients were invited to participate in the study. A gastric biopsy of each patient was collected for Rapid Urease Testing (RUT) and histology by Giemsa stain. A fecal sample for nested-qPCR analysis was also obtained. DNA was extracted from the fecal samples, and conventional PCR followed by qPCR of the ureC gene of H. pylori was carried out. We evaluated the presence of H. pylori, in 103 females and 40 males, mean (± SD) age of 56.5 ± 14.18. The sensitivity of RUT to detect the infection was 67.0% (95% C.I.: 57.2 – 75.8) and specificity was 92.3% (95% C.I.: 76.5 – 99.1). Histology by Giemsa stain, commonly used as a reference for H. pylori detection, showed a sensitivity of 98.6% (95% C.I.: 92.5 – 100.0) and a specificity of 89.7% (95% C.I.: 72.7 – 97.8). In contrast, detection of H. pylori infection in stools by nested-qPCR showed a sensitivity of 100% (95% C.I.: 94.9 – 100.0) and a specificity of 83.9% (95% C.I.: 66.3 – 94.6). Our test, based in nested-qPCR is a better diagnostic alternative than conventional RUT, and is similar to histology by Giemsa stain in the detection of H. pylori, by which the test could be used for non-invasive diagnosis in clinical practice.