bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Frequency Boundary Assignment on Vowel Recognition with the Nucleus 24 ACE Speech Coding Strategy
Authors: Fourakis Marios S. , Hawks John W. , Holden Laura K. , Skinner Margaret W. , Holden Timothy A.
Published: July 2017

Two speech processor programs (MAPs) differing only in electrode frequency boundary assignments were created for each of eight Nucleus 24 Cochlear Implant recipients. The default MAPs used typical frequency boundaries, and the experimental MAPs reassigned one additional electrode to
vowel formant regions. Four objective speech tests and a questionnaire were used to evaluate speech recognition with the two MAPs.Results for the closed-set vowel test and the formant discrimination test showed small but significant improvement in scores with the experimental MAP. Differences
for the Consonant-Vowel Nucleus-Consonant word test and closed-set consonant test were nonsignificant. Feature analysis revealed no significant differences in information transmission. Seven of the eight subjects preferred the experimental MAP, reporting louder, crisper, and clearer sound.The
results suggest that Nucleus 24 recipients should be given an opportunity to compare a MAP that assigns more electrodes in vowel formant regions with the default MAP to determine which provides the most benefit in everyday life. Se crearon dos programas de procesamiento del lenguaje (MAP)
que diferían sólo en la asignación de límites de frecuencia en el electrodo, para ocho portadores del implante coclear Nucleus 24. El MAP por defecto utilizó límites de frecuencia típicos, y el MAP experimental reasignó un electrodo adicional
a las regiones de formantes vocálicos. Se utilizaron cuatro pruebas de lenguaje objetivas y un cuestionario para evaluar el reconocimiento del lenguaje con los dos MAP.Los resultados de la prueba de lista cerrada de vocales y la prueba de discriminación de formantes mostró
una pequeña pero significativa mejoría en los puntajes con el MAP experimental. Las diferencias para la prueba de palabras Consonante-Núcleo Vocálico-Consonante y para la prueba de consonantes de lista cerrada no fueron significativas. El análisis de rasgos
no mostró diferencias significativas en la transmisión de información. Siete de los ocho sujetos prefirieron el MAP experimental, reportando sonidos más fuertes, más vivos y más claros.Los resultados sugieren que los receptores de un Nucleus 24 deberían
recibir la oportunidad de comparar su MAP por defecto con un MAP que asigna más electrodos en la región de formantes vocálicos, y así poder determinar cuál aporta el mayor beneficio en su vida diaria.
Functional and Anatomical Correlates of Impaired Velocity Storage
Authors: Jacobson Gary P. , McCaslin Devin L. , Patel Suresh , Barin Kamrin , Ramadan Nabih M.
Published: July 2017

Velocity storage (VS), a brainstem function, extends the low-frequency response of the vestibular system. To better understand VS mechanisms and characteristics in humans, we analyzed retrospectively functional measures of gait, electrophysiological measures of vestibular function,
and imaging studies in an attempt to determine clinical, electrophysiological, and anatomical correlates of abnormalities in VS.Two cohorts of patients referred to our Risk of Falls Assessment Clinic participated in this investigation. Group 1 (control) patients demonstrated normal caloric
and rotary chair tests. Group 2 patients with impaired velocity storage (experimentals) differed clinically from Group 1 only by demonstrating abnormal multifrequency vestibulocular reflex phase measures on rotational testing.Results showed that Group 2 patients had greater impairments in
postural stability and gait than Group 1 patients. Additionally, 80% of patients in Group 2 and none in Group 1 showed pontine hyperintense lesions on MRI. La velocidad de almacenamiento (VS), una función del tallo cerebral, Amplía la respuesta a bajas frecuencias del sistema
vestibular. Para entender mejor los mecanismos y características de la VS en humanos, analizamos retrospectivamente medidas funcionales de la marcha, medidas electrofisiológicas de función vestibular, y estudios de imágenes, en un intento de determinar correlaciones
clínicas, electrofisiológicas y anatómicas en las anormalidades de la VS.Dos cohortes de pacientes referidos a nuestra Clínica de Evaluación de Riesgo de Caídas participaron en esta investigación. Los pacientes del Grupo 1 (control) demostraron
normalidad en las pruebas calóricas y de silla rotatoria. Los pacientes del Grupo 2 con velocidad de almacenamiento alterada (experimentales) fueron diferentes de aquellos del Grupo 1 sólo por demostrar medidas anormales en la fase de reflejo vestíbulo-ocular multifrecuencial,
en pruebas de rotación.Los resultados mostraron que los pacientes del Grupo 2 tenían mayor alteración en la estabilidad postural y la marcha, que los pacientes del Grupo 1. Además, el 80% de los pacientes en el Grupo 2 y ninguno del Grupo 1, mostraron lesiones pontinas
hiperintensas en la RMN
Prevalence Of Maxillary Sinus Jaw Mucuous Cysts In University Dental Radiology Service
Authors: Neto Joaquim Lira Saraiva , Marques Lidia Audrey Rocha Valadas , Martins Rodrigues Neto Edilson , De Lima Barbara Betty , Chagas Francineudo Oliveira , Fiallos Ana Cristina Mello , Scarparo Herinque Clasen , Furtado Junior João Hildo De Carvalho , Kurita Lúcio Mitsuo , Lobo Patricia Leal Dantas , Capistrano Allana Bezerra , Diogenes Erika Saboia Guerra , Da Silva Rávilla Alves , Bruno Paulo Arthur Mendonça , Santos Sebastião Da Silva , De Aguiar Márcio Glauber Lopes , Martiniano Carlos Ricardo De Queiroz
Published: July 2017

Background: Mucosal cyst of the maxillary sinus or antral pseudocyst is one of great importance injury, being the pathology that affects more the maxillary sinus. Their discovery, in most cases, it is for the interpretation of the images in routine panoramic radiography. Aims: The research aimed to evaluate the prevalence of mucous cyst in maxillary sinus in radiology clinic at Ceara Federal University. Material and Methods: To this study conduction, were analyzed 1996 panoramic radiographs from a digital file obtained between April 2011 to April 2013 Results:. Aspects as gender, affected side and teeth absence next to the cyst in the respective quadrant were evaluated.It was observed in the sample the occurrence of 45 patients with suggested images of mucous cysts in maxillary sinus,making a prevalence of 2,25%. From them, 26 (57,8%)were female and 19 (42,2%) were male. 48 maxillary sinuswere affected with the wound, from which28 (58,3%) it was in the left side and 20 (41,7%) in the right site. Three patients presented the wound in both sides, what represents 6,7% of the affected patients. From those 48 Mucous retention cyst, 40 (83,3%) were not related to an edentulous area in ipsilateral quadrant and 8 (16,7%) were shown next to an edentulous area. Conclusion: The conclusion was that the cyst of retention mucous in the maxillary sinus had prevalence in males and in the left side of the maxillary sinus. It was not found a relation between the cyst and the edentulous area.
An experimental study of the impact of aging on Gilsonite and Trinidad Epuré modified asphalt binders properties
Authors: Słowik Mieczysław , Bilski Marcin
Published: July 2017

The tests and analyses presented in the paper are related to the 20/30, 35/50 and 50/70 penetration grade road bitumens as well as the asphalt binders obtained through modification of the 35/50 and 50/70 bitumens. The latter were modified by adding to it 3%, 5% and 7% of the Gilsonite natural asphalt and 15%, 25% and 35% of the Trinidad Epuré Z 0/8 natural asphalt. The aim of the study was to assess the changes in the functional and rheological properties of theroad bitumens that were modified by adding to them the Gilsonite and Trinidad Epuré natural asphalts. The modified asphalt binders were subjected to the laboratory simulated short-term and long-term aging, where two methods, designed as part of the Strategic Highway Research Program, were used, i.e. the Rolling Thin Film Oven Test and the Pressure Aging Vessel, respectively. The study of the asphalt binders both those that were subjected to aging and those unaged includes thermal susceptibility (the Penetration Index) and resistance to cracking at low temperatures by tests carried out using the Bending Beam Rheometer. The analysis of the results revealed that the unfavourable impact of the aging process on the asphalt binder properties is limited if a suitable amount of the natural asphalt is used as a modifier.
Rural two-lane two-way three-leg and four-leg stop-controlled intersections: predicting road safety effects
Authors: Biancardo Salvatore Antonio , Russo Francesca , Žilionienė Daiva , Zhang Weibin
Published: July 2017

The study focused on grade-level rural two-lane two-way three-leg and two-lane two-way four-leg stop-controlled intersections located in the flat area with a vertical grade of less than 5%. The goal is to calibrate one Safety Performance Function at these intersections by implementing a Generalized Estimating Equation with a binomial distribution and compare to the results with yearly expected crash frequencies by using models mainly refered to the scientific literature. The crash data involved 77 two-lane two-way intersections, of which 25 two-lane two-way three-leg intersections are without a left-turn lane (47 with left-turn lane), 5 two-lane two-way four-leg intersections without a left-turn lane (6 with a left-turn lane). No a right-turn lane is present on the major roads. Explanatory variables used in the Safety Performance Function are the presence or absence of a left-turn lane, mean lane width including approach lane and a left-turn lane width on the major road per travel direction, the number of legs, and the Total Annual Average Daily Traffic entering the intersection. The reliability of the Safety Performance Function was assessed using residuals analysis. A graphic outcome of the Safety Performance Function application has been plotted to easily assess a yearly expected crash frequency by varying the Average Annual Daily Traffic, the number of legs, and the presence or absence of a left-turn lane. The presence of a left-turn lane significantly reduces the yearly expected crash frequency values at intersections.
Assessment model of levels for winter road maintenance
Authors: Ratkevičius Tomas , Laurinavičius Alfredas
Published: July 2017

The limited funding for the road industry leads to economizing in the planning of road network maintenance, to identifying the appropriate priorities of the activities with the greatest benefit for the society. The level of maintenance is the direct assessment of the road operation and maintenance service provided to the road users; it directly affects the road maintenance and for road users costs the better is road maintenance, the road users incur the fewerexpenses and vice versa. Insufficient road maintenance in the winter time causes not only the danger of traffic accidents but also worsens the driving conditions, increases the fuel consumption, vehicle depreciation, transportation becomes more expensive. Many results of studies showed that the current choice of maintenance levels in the winter time taking into account only the road category and traffic volume does not ensure the indicators of the most advanced world countries and road functional purpose. The principle of the minimal expenses for the society should be the main criterion in identifying the optimal levels of winter road maintenance. The experience of Lithuania and foreign countries helped in creating the model of assessment of winter maintenance levels for Lithuanian roads of national significance, which can be applied in the other foreign countries as well. This model could be an effective tool for the selection of the optimal maintenance levels, which would economically substantiate the winter road maintenance strategy, that best corresponds to the needs of the society.
Methods and criteria for evaluation of asphalt mixture resistance to low temperature cracking
Authors: Gražulytė Judita , Vaitkus Audrius , Andrejevas Vitalijus , Gribulis Gediminas
Published: July 2017

In cold regions and areas where there is a huge difference between high and low temperatures asphalt pavements are subject to low temperature cracking. The appeared cracks form pavement discontinuities, through which water penetrates into pavement structure. It reduces the bearing capacity of the whole pavement structure, weakens adhesion between bitumen and aggregate, affects bonding between layers and increases the development of frost heaves. A sealing of cracks deals with these issues. However, additional inspections after each winter have to be carried out to identify both cracks that have newly appeared and cracks that need to be resealed. These activities significantly increase road maintenance cost. Selection of the appropriate asphalt mixture by its performance at low temperatures reduces or even prevents low temperature cracking of asphalt pavements. A number of methods such as the Indirect Tensile Test, the Bending Beam Rheometer Test, the Thermal Stress Restrained Specimen Test, Asphalt Thermal Cracking Analyser, the Single-Edge-Notched Beam Test, the Disc-Shaped Compact Tension Test, the Semi-Circular Bend Test, the Fenix Test, Asphalt Concrete Cracking Device and Spectral Analysis of Acoustic Emission are developed to evaluate asphalt mixture resistance to low temperature cracking. This paper presents an analysis of these tests, emphasizes their advantages and disadvantages and gives limiting criteria to evaluate asphalt mixture resistance to low temperature cracking. The test advantages and disadvantages are deciding factors in a test selection. Some tests such as the Thermal Stress Restrained Specimen Test and Spectral Analysis of acoustic emission can directly reveal the lowest temperature at which asphalt mixture can withstand induced thermal stresses.
Geographical distribution of Brucella melitensis inferred from rpoB gene variation
Authors: Tan Kim-Kee , Tan Yung-Chie , Chang Li-Yen , Lee Kok Wei , Nor'e Siti Sarah , Yee Wai-Yan , Hoh Chee-Choong , AbuBakar Sazaly
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Currently available tests have limitations for the identification of Brucella species and strains, and their genetic lineage. The genome sequence of the rpoB gene encoding the β-subunit of DNA-dependent RNA polymerase was investigated for its use in genotyping Brucella melitensis.

Methodology: Complete rpoB gene sequences of globally distributed Brucella melitensis strains were analyzed. Single nucleotides polymorphisms (SNPs) of the rpoB gene sequences were identified and used to type Brucella melitensis strains.

Results: Six DNA polymorphisms were identified, of which two (nucleotides 3201 and 558) were novel. Analysis of the geographical distribution of the strains revealed a spatial clustering pattern with rpoB type 1 representing European and American strains, rpoB type 2 representing European, African, and Asian strains, rpoB type 3 representing Mediterranean strains, and rpoB type 4 representing African (C3201T) and European (C3201T/T558A) strains.

Conclusions: We report the discovery of two novel SNPs of rpoB gene that can serve as useful markers for epidemiology and geographical tracking of B. melitensis.
Analysis of diarrheagenic potential of uropathogenic Escherichia coli isolates in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Khaleque Marium , Akter Selina , Akhter Humaira , Khan Sirajul Islam , Begum Anowara
Published: July 2017

Abstract

Introduction: Urinary tract infection is the most frequently diagnosed kidney and urologic disease.

Methodology: Whether the Escherichia coli strains responsible for urinary tract infection (UPEC) carry virulence properties of diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC), 56 UPEC strains were examined for the presence of DEC and UPEC characteristics (e.g. biofilm formation, hemolysis activity, virulence genes).

Results: Among 56 UPEC strains, 21 showed capable of biofilm formation and only 5 showed hemolysis activity on sheep blood agar. In Multiplex PCR on assessment of virulence genes related to uropathogenesis; 42% was found positive for papC gene, 27% was fim1 positive, 11% was afa positive and none was found positive for sfa. Most of the isolates were found carrying none of eight diarrhea associated genes (e.g. estA, eltB, vt1, vt2, eaeA, ea, ial and bfpA) as expected. Only seven isolates were found to harbor these genes: five genes i.e., vt2, ial, eltB, bfpA and ea were found in five different isolates and two isolates were positive for estA, among these two, one was found positive for fim1, papC along with estA, a UPEC strain containing virulent gene of ETEC strain. One isolate was found carrying fim1 and vt2 showing the property of EHEC and another isolate was found positive for fim1 and ial, the characteristic of EIEC. One isolate harboring bfpA gene characterized as EPEC and the another one was found to harbor ea gene, characterized as EAEC.

Conclusions: This study observed that most UPEC strains are unique to uropathogenesis, still very few may carry the diarrheagenic property.
Anticyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies and Rheumatoid Factor as Risk Factors for 10-year Cardiovascular Morbidity in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Large Inception Cohort Study
Authors: Berendsen Mike L.T. , van Maaren Marissa C. , Arts Elke E.A. , den Broeder Alfons A. , Popa Calin D. , Fransen Jaap
Published: July 2017

Objective.

To determine whether anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP) and rheumatoid factor (RF) are risk factors for 10-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods.

Analyses were performed using data from the Nijmegen early RA inception cohort, in which patients with newly diagnosed RA, consecutively included since 1985, were regularly followed up. Anti-CCP and RF were determined at baseline (diagnosis). Outcome was the first cardiovascular disease (CVD) event [ischemic heart disease, nonhemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident (CVA), or peripheral artery disease (PAD)] after baseline as retrieved from physician diagnosis. Fatality was checked against death certificates. Cox regression including correction for baseline confounders was performed to estimate the effect of anti-CCP, RF, and their interaction on 10-year CVD-free survival.

Results.

Of 929 patients included, 628 were anti-CCP–positive and 697 were RF-positive. During followup, with a median of 7.5 years, 162 CV events were observed (101 ischemic heart disease, 45 CVA, and 16 PAD), of which 15 were fatal. The HRadjusted for anti-CCP was 1.17 (95% CI 0.82–1.67) and the HRadjusted for RF was 1.52 (95% CI 1.00–2.30). The association of RF positivity with CVD was even stronger in the anti-CCP–negative patients: HRadjusted 2.09 (95% CI 1.18–3.71). There was no significant interaction (p = 0.098) between anti-CCP and RF.

Conclusion.

Rather than anti-CCP, presence of RF was associated with CVD in this cohort of patients with RA.
Validation of a Knowledge Transfer Tool According to the OMERACT Filter: Does Web-based Real-time Iterative Calibration Enhance the Evaluation of Bone Marrow Lesions in Hip Osteoarthritis?
Authors: Jaremko Jacob L. , Azmat Omar , Lambert Robert G.W. , Bird Paul , Haugen Ida K. , Jans Lennart , Weber Ulrich , Winn Naomi , Zubler Veronika , Maksymowych Walter P.
Published: July 2017

Objective.

To assess reliability and feasibility of using a Web-based interface and interactive online calibration tool for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scoring of bone marrow lesions (BML) in osteoarthritis (OA), applied to the Hip MR Inflammation Scoring System (HIMRISS).

Methods.

Seven readers new to HIMRISS (3 radiologists, 4 rheumatologists) scored coronal short-tau inversion recovery MRI from a hip OA observational study obtained pre- and 8-week poststeroid injection (n = 40 × 2 scans × 2 hips = 160 hips). By crossover design, Group B (4 readers) scored 20 patients (40 hips) using conventional spreadsheet-based methods and then another 20 using a Web-based interface and an online real-time iterative calibration (RETIC) training module. Group A (3 readers) reversed the order, scoring the first 20 subjects by the new method and the final 20 conventionally. Outcomes included ICC and reader survey.

Results.

Interobserver reliability for BML status was high by both spreadsheet and Web-based methods (0.84–0.90), regardless of the order in which scoring was performed. Reliability of change scores was moderate and improved with training. Improvement was greater in readers who began with the spreadsheet method and then used the Web-based method than in those who began with the Web-based method, especially at the acetabulum. Readers found Web-based/RETIC scoring more user-friendly and nearly 50% faster than traditional spreadsheet methods.

Conclusion.

HIMRISS offers reliable BML scoring in OA, whether by conventional spreadsheet-based scoring or by a Web-based interface with interactive feedback. The new method allowed faster readings, provided a consistent training environment that helped inexperienced readers achieve reliability equivalent to that of conventional methods, and was preferred by the readers.
Defining Flare in Osteoarthritis of the Hip and Knee: A Systematic Literature Review — OMERACT Virtual Special Interest Group
Authors: Cross Marita , Dubouis Ludovic , Mangin Matthieu , Hunter David J. , March Lyn , Hawker Gillian , Guillemin Francis
Published: July 2017

Objective.

Beyond the exacerbation of pain in describing a flare in osteoarthritis (OA), patients and health professionals add other elements that deserve to be fully elucidated, such as effusion, swelling, and mobility limitation. To define and conceptualize the construct flare in OA, the objective was to identify the key variables, or symptoms, that worsen, and to clarify how these variables are described in the literature by patients and clinicians.

Methods.

A systematic review of the literature was conducted in Medline and PsychINFO. In brief, the search terms used were “osteoarthritis,” “knee,” “hip,” and “flare.” Specific characteristics of included studies were identified, including the type of study design, type of flare assessed, how the flare developed, and what definition of flare was used, including whether the definition was based on qualitative or quantitative analysis.

Results.

Pain was the major factor in the definition of flare within these studies. Four components of flare were identified: pain, other factors, composite criteria, and global assessment. While the majority of studies reported flare as an increase in pain using standardized outcome measures, only 1 study reported the antecedents and consequences of a pain flare using qualitative methods.

Conclusion.

The use of flare as an outcome or inclusion criterion in rheumatology trials is a common occurrence; however, this review highlights the wide variation in the definitions of OA flare currently in use and the emphasis on the measurement of pain. This variation in definition does not allow for direct comparison between trials and limits interpretation of evidence.
La circulation internationale des techniques de la preuve dans les programmes d’intervention et de gestion publique en éducation
Authors: Normand Romuald
Published: July 2017

Résumé Cet article s’intéresse à la circulation internationale du modèle de la preuve en éducation. Il montre comment cette circulation opère depuis le champ de la santé publique et la façon dont certaines technologies et contenus d’expertise sont conçus par des consortiums internationaux disposant d’une capacité d’influence assez large dans les liens qu’ils établissent à travers le monde avec un certain nombre d’États, d’agences nationales et d’universités. L’article caractérise également le rôle des organisations supranationales, notamment l’OCDE et la Commission européenne, comme agents de diffusion et médiateurs de cette expertise internationale. Le modèle de la preuve sert à redéfinir les rapports entre la recherche et la politique, de la santé vers l’éducation, tout en instituant de nouvelles règles et méthodes d’évaluation des programmes d’intervention et de gestion publique.
Monolithic Religious Markets, Fragmented State Structures, and Islamic Fundamentalism among Iranians and across the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Moaddel Mansoor
Published: July 2017

Conceptualizing fundamentalism as an orientation toward one’s religion, this paper proposes that fundamentalism on the macro level results from two types of monopolies in the religious market: (1) a state-imposed secular monopoly and (2) a religious monopoly aligned with a unified authoritarian state, (3) but it declines when a religious monopoly is supported by a fragmented regime that sustains a fractionalized elite. The conditions of post-independence (1919) Egypt and pre-revolutionary Iran conform to the first, Saudi Arabia to the second, and post-revolutionary Iran to the third. Testing these propositions by using cross-national data from fourteen Middle Eastern and North African countries, the results show that fundamentalism is linked (1) positively to state authoritarianism, (2) positively to state regulation of religion, and (3) negatively to fractionalized elites. On the micro level, this paper shows that variation in fundamentalism among Iranians is connected to the features of the Islamic regime –religiosity, Islamic identity, trust in the mosque and in different institutions of the state, hostility toward outgroups and the West, and the reliance on the regime-controlled TV as a source of entertainment. Beyond religion and regime, fundamentalism is negatively linked to socioeconomic status, urban living, liberalism, and access to diverse sources of information, but positively to the perception that the economy works for the benefit of all Iranians. Sunnis are more fundamentalist, but Kurds and Lurs are less.
CONJUGALIDADE, PARENTALIDADE E SEPARAÇÃO: REPERCUSSÕES NO RELACIONAMENTO PAIS E FILHOS(AS)
Authors: Ponciano Edna Lucia Tinoco , Féres-Carneiro Terezinha
Published: July 2017

Tradicionalmente, a família inicia-se com a história de duas pessoas que formam um casal, suporte para a criação dos(as) filhos(as). Ao longo do ciclo vital, ocorrem várias transformações. A adolescência e a transição para a vida adulta são fases do desenvolvimento importantes para compreendermos as mudanças no relacionamento pais e filhos(as), em que, muitas vezes, a separação conjugal já ocorreu. O objetivo deste trabalho é discutir as repercussões da conjugalidade e da separação sobre a parentalidade, analisando, a partir do relato histórico de pais e mães, o relacionamento de pais e filhos(as) ao longo da vida e, sobretudo, no período da adultez emergente. Em uma pesquisa qualitativa, entrevistamos homens e mulheres, pais e mães de jovens de 15 a 26 anos, da classe média do Rio de Janeiro. Os entrevistados eram casados, separados ou recasados e relataram histórias sobre conjugalidade, parentalidade e separação, que afetaram e/ou ainda afetam o relacionamento entre pais e filhos(as). A partir da análise das 25 entrevistas realizadas, concluímos que pai e mãe participam ativamente da vida dos(as) filhos(as), ainda que de modos diversos. Notamos a predominância marcante da mãe e a especificidade da presença paterna, ainda pouco valorizada e compreendida, principalmente quando ocorre a separação.
Mesenchymal Cell–Specific MyD88 Signaling Promotes Systemic Dissemination of Salmonella Typhimurium via Inflammatory Monocytes
Authors: Kim Donghyun , Seo Sang-Uk , Zeng Melody Y. , Kim Wan-Uk , Kamada Nobuhiko , Inohara Naohiro , Núñez Gabriel
Published: July 2017

Enteric pathogens including Salmonella enteric serovar Typhimurium can breach the epithelial barrier of the host and spread to systemic tissues. In response to infection, the host activates innate immune receptors via the signaling molecule MyD88, which induces protective inflammatory and antimicrobial responses. Most of these innate immune responses have been studied in hematopoietic cells, but the role of MyD88 signaling in other cell types remains poorly understood. Surprisingly, we found that Dermo1-Cre;Myd88fl/fl mice with mesenchymal cell–specific deficiency of MyD88 were less susceptible to orogastric and i.p. S. Typhimurium infection than their Myd88fl/fl littermates. The reduced susceptibility of Dermo1-Cre;Myd88fl/fl mice to infection was associated with lower loads of S. Typhimurium in the liver and spleen. Mutant analyses revealed that S. Typhimurium employs its virulence type III secretion system 2 to promote its growth through MyD88 signaling pathways in mesenchymal cells. Inflammatory monocytes function as a major cell population for systemic dissemination of S. Typhimurium. Mechanistically, mesenchymal cell–specific MyD88 signaling promoted CCL2 production in the liver and spleen and recruitment of inflammatory monocytes to systemic organs in response to S. Typhimurium infection. Consistently, MyD88 signaling in mesenchymal cells enhanced the number of phagocytes including Ly6ChiLy6G− inflammatory monocytes harboring S. Typhimurium in the liver. These results suggest that S. Typhimurium promotes its systemic growth and dissemination through MyD88 signaling pathways in mesenchymal cells.
CT-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of osteoid osteoma: Our experience in 87 patients
Authors: Chahal Anurag , Rajalakshmi Prathiba , Khan Shah A , Rastogi Shishir , Srivastava Deep N , Gamanagatti Shivanand
Published: July 2017

Purpose: To evaluate the technical and clinical success of radiofrequency ablation of osteoid osteoma and analyze the factors responsible for clinical success. We also tried to investigate the role of follow-up computed tomography (CT) imaging. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study approved by the institute's ethics committee involving 87 patients with appendicular osteoid osteoma. CT-guided radio frequency ablation was performed using a bipolar ablation system. Patients were followed up over 15.4 (4–24) months for pain, and clinical success/failure was determined using established criteria. Patients with clinical failure were taken for repeat ablation. Follow-up CT was obtained at 6 months and correlated with clinical success. Procedural scans were later reviewed for technical success in a blinded manner and correlated with clinical success along with other imaging and patient characteristics. Results: Mean pre-procedure visual analog scale (VAS) score was 7.0 ± 0.8. Primary success rate after single session was 86.2%(75/87 patients), and overall success rate after one/two sessions was 96.6%(84/87). No major complications were noted. Technical success rate was 89.7%(78/87). All 9 patients who had a suboptimal needle positioning had recurrence where as three patients had recurrence despite technical success. None of the imaging characteristics or history of prior intervention was significantly associated with clinical success. Follow-up CT showed advanced bone healing in 48 lesions, and was confined to the treatment success group. Alternately, minimal/absent bone healing was seen in all (12) patients of primary treatment failure and 27 patients with treatment success. Conclusions: CT-guided percutaneous radio frequency ablation is a safe and highly effective treatment for osteoid osteomas even in recurrent and residual cases. Technical success is the most important parameter affecting the outcome. Post radio frequency ablation CT findings have a good positive but a poor negative predictive value in prognostication.
Multimodality imaging spectrum of complications of horseshoe kidney
Authors: Shah Hardik U , Ojili Vijayanadh
Published: July 2017

Horseshoe kidney is the most common congenital renal fusion anomaly with an incidence of 1 in 400–600 individuals. The most common type is fusion at the lower poles seen in greater than 90% of the cases, with the rest depicting fusion at the upper poles, resulting in an inverted horseshoe kidney. Embryologically, there are two theories hypothesizing the genesis of horseshoe kidney – mechanical fusion theory and teratogenic event theory. As an entity, horseshoe kidney is an association of two anatomic anomalies, namely, ectopia and malrotation. It is also associated with other anomalies including vascular, calyceal, and ureteral anomalies. Horseshoe kidney is prone to a number of complications due to its abnormal position as well as due to associated vascular and ureteral anomalies. Complications associated with horseshoe kidney include pelviureteric junction obstruction, renal stones, infection, tumors, and trauma. It can also be associated with abnormalities of cardiovascular, central nervous, musculoskeletal and genitourinary systems, as well as chromosomal abnormalities. Conventional imaging modalities (plain films, intravenous urogram) as well as advanced cross-sectional imaging modalities (ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging) play an important role in the evaluation of horseshoe kidney. This article briefly describes the embryology and anatomy of the horseshoe kidney, enumerates appropriate imaging modalities used for its evaluation, and reviews cross-sectional imaging features of associated complications.
Characterizing Reactivity to Onchocerca volvulus Antigens in Multiplex Bead Assays
Authors: Feeser Karla R. , Cama Vitaliano , Priest Jeffrey W. , Thiele Elizabeth A. , Wiegand Ryan E. , Lakwo Thomson , Feleke Sindew M. , Cantey Paul T.
Published: July 2017

Multiplex bead assays (MBAs) may provide a powerful integrated tool for monitoring, evaluation, and post-elimination surveillance of onchocerciasis and co-endemic diseases; however, the specificity and sensitivity of Onchocerca volvulus antigens have not been characterized within this context. An MBA was developed to evaluate three antigens (OV-16, OV-17, and OV-33) for onchocerciasis. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analyses were used to characterize antigen performance using a panel of 610 specimens: 109 O. volvulus-positive specimens, 426 non-onchocerciasis controls with filarial and other confirmed parasitic infection, and 75 sera from patients with no other parasitic infection. The IgG and IgG4 assays for OV-16 demonstrated sensitivities of 95.4% and 96.3%, and specificities of 99.4% and 99.8%, respectively. The OV-17 IgG and IgG4 assays had sensitivities of 86.2% and 76.1% and specificities of 79.2% and 82.8%. For OV-33, the IgG and IgG4 assays had sensitivities of 90.8% and 96.3%, and specificities of 96.8% and 98.6%. The OV-16 IgG4-based MBA had the best assay characteristics, followed by OV-33 IgG4. The OV-16 IgG4 assay would be useful for monitoring and evaluation using the MBA platform. Further evaluations are needed to review the potential use of OV-33 as a confirmatory test in the context of program evaluations.
Temporal artery biopsies in south-east Scotland: a five-year review
Authors: Gajree S , Borooah S , Dhillon N , Goudie C , smith C , Aspinall P , Dhillon B
Published: July 2017

Temporal artery biopsy is the gold standard investigation for the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the use of temporal artery biopsy in diagnosing giant cell arteritis in southeast Scotland over a five-year period. We aimed to quantify success rates, and predictive factors for a positive biopsy, as well as compare the different specialities performing the biopsies. The data should enable the development of better criteria for referral for investigation of giant cell arteritis.

Methods Patients were identified using a database of temporal artery biopsies generated by the pathology department in NHS Lothian (south east Scotland), for all biopsies examined between January 2010 and December 2015. An electronic patient record was used to retrospectively examine the records of patients in the database.

Results A total of 715 biopsies were included in the study, of which 250 (35.0%) showed features of giant cell arteritis. The main predictors for a positive biopsy were age at biopsy, specialty performing biopsy, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, jaw claudication/pain, and ophthalmic symptoms. The most important predictor of a positive biopsy was erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The length of biopsy was not found to be a predictor of positive biopsy; however, diameter of biopsy was predictive.

Conclusions We have shown that many temporal artery biopsies are negative, and f nding ways to reduce the number of patients unnecessarily undergoing biopsy will be essential in reducing workload and streamlining services. This study demonstrates some key predictive factors for patients with positive biopsies. The study also shows that a large proportion of biopsies taking place do not result in the recommended length of specimen, but this does not necessarily reduce the likelihood of a positive biopsy.
A successful re-trial after clozapine myopericarditis
Authors: sarathy K , Alexopoulos C
Published: July 2017

Clozapine-induced myopericarditis is a well-described adverse drug reaction. Clozapine is also the most effi cacious agent in refractory schizophrenia. We report a case of a patient who was successfully re-trialled on clozapine two years after developing myopericarditis, after which multiple lines of alternative treatment failed. We propose a protocol for safely attempting a re-trial of clozapine in such cases.
St Hugh’s Military Hospital (Head Injuries), Oxford 1940-1945
Authors: Weiner M-F , silver J
Published: July 2017

Despite being open for only five years, St Hugh's Military Hospital (Head Injuries) has a seminal place in the history of neurology, neurosurgery and rehabilitation medicine. At its peak, during the Normandy campaign of 1944, it provided 430 beds for the treatment of service personnel. Between 1940 and 1945, 13,000 patients were referred to St Hugh's providing a unique opportunity for ground-breaking research into the management of head injuries. The doctors at St Hugh's collaborated with research scientists at Oxford University in many areas of fundamental research including the treatment of infection, the mechanics of brain injury, brain surgery, neuropsychiatry and rehabilitation, and the use of electroencephalograms. This paper documents these scientific advances and considers their influence on the practice of neurology and neurosurgery in the UK.
A theory of economic policy lock-in and lock-out via hysteresis: rethinking economists’ approach to economic policy
Authors: Palley Thomas
Published: July 2017

This paper uses hysteresis to develop the concept of policy lock-in and lock-out. Policy changes may near-irrevocably change the economy’s structure, thereby changing the distribution of wealth, income and power. That may lock-in policy by changing the political equilibrium. Exit costs that block policy reversals also cause lock-in. Conventional thinking treats policy as a dial which is adjusted according to the economy’s state. Policy lock-in questions the dial formulation and raises new issues for optimal policy design. It also offers insights into economic and political crisis theory. Policy lock-in is illustrated with examples that include tax policy, government spending, the euro, globalization, and the neoliberal policy experiment.
Improving the inverse modeling of a trace isotope: how precisely can radium-228 fluxes toward the ocean and submarine groundwater discharge be estimated?
Authors: Le Gland Guillaume , Mémery Laurent , Aumont Olivier , Resplandy Laure
Published: July 2017

Abstract. Radium-228 (228Ra), an almost conservative trace isotope in the ocean, supplied from the continental shelves and removed by a known radioactive decay (T1∕2 = 5. 75 years), can be used as a proxy to constrain shelf fluxes of other trace elements, such as nutrients, iron, or rare earth elements. In this study, we perform inverse modeling of a global 228Ra dataset (including GEOSECS, TTO and GEOTRACES programs, and, for the first time, data from the Arctic and around the Kerguelen Islands) to compute the total 228Ra fluxes toward the ocean, using the ocean circulation obtained from the NEMO 3.6 model with a 2° resolution. We optimized the inverse calculation (source regions, cost function) and find a global estimate of the 228Ra fluxes of 8.01–8. 49 × 1023 atoms yr−1, more precise and around 20 % lower than previous estimates. The largest fluxes are in the western North Atlantic, the western Pacific and the Indian Ocean, with roughly two-thirds in the Indo-Pacific Basin. An estimate in the Arctic Ocean is provided for the first time (0.43–0.50  ×  1023 atoms yr−1). Local misfits between model and data in the Arctic, the Gulf Stream and the Kuroshio regions could result from flaws of the ocean circulation in these regions (resolution, atmospheric forcing). As radium is enriched in groundwater, a large part of the 228Ra shelf sources comes from submarine groundwater discharge (SGD), a major but poorly known pathway for terrestrial mineral elements, including nutrients, to the ocean. In contrast to the 228Ra budget, the global estimate of SGD is rather unconstrained, between 1.3 and 14. 7 × 1013 m3 yr−1, due to high uncertainties on the other sources of 228Ra, especially diffusion from continental shelf sediments. Better precision on SGD cannot be reached by inverse modeling until a proper way to separate the contributions of SGD and diffusive release from sediments at a global scale is found.
Analytical constraints on layered gas trapping and smoothing of
atmospheric variability in ice under low accumulation conditions
Authors: Fourteau Kévin , Faïn Xavier , Martinerie Patricia , Landais Amaëlle , Ekaykin Alexey A. , Lipenkov Vladimir Ya. , Chappellaz Jérôme
Published: July 2017

Abstract. We investigate for the first time through continuous measurements the loss and alteration of past atmospheric information from air trapping mechanisms under low accumulation conditions. Methane concentration changes were measured over the Dansgaard-Oeschger event 17 (D0-17, ~ 60,000 yrBP) in the Antarctic Vostok 4G-2 ice core. Measurements were performed using continuous-flow analysis combined with laser spectroscopy. The results highlight many anomalous layers at the centimeter scale, unevenly distributed along the ice core. The anomalous methane mixing ratios differ from those in the immediate surrounding layers by up to 50 ppbv. This phenomenon can be theoretically reproduced by a simple layered trapping model, creating very localized gas age scale inversions. We propose a method for cleaning the record of anomalous values which aims at minimizing the bias in the overall signal. Once the layered-trapping induced anomalies are removed from the record, the DO-17 appears to be smoother than its equivalent record from the high accumulation WAIS Divide ice core. This is expected due to the slower sinking and densification speeds of firn layers at lower accumulation. However and surprisingly, the degree of smoothing appears similar between modern and DO-17 conditions at Vostok. This suggests that glacial records of trace gases from low accumulation sites in the East Antarctic plateau can provide a better time resolution of past atmospheric composition changes than usually expected. We also developed a method to extract the gas age distributions in ice layers that can be applied even for sites without firn-air measurements. It is particularly adapted for the conditions of the East Antarctic plateau, as it helps to characterize smoothing for a large range of very low temperature and accumulation conditions.
The sensitivity of the large-scale atmosphere circulation to changes in surface temperature gradients in the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Molnos Sonja , Petri Stefan , Lehmann Jascha , Peukert Erik , Coumou Dim
Published: July 2017

Abstract. Climate and weather conditions in the mid-latitudes are strongly driven by the large-scale atmosphere circulation. Observational data indicates that important components of the large-scale circulation have changed in recent decades including the strength of the Hadley cell, jet streams, storm tracks and planetary waves. Associated impacts cover a broad range, including changes in the frequency and nature of weather extremes and shifts of fertile habitats with implications for biodiversity and agriculture. Dynamical theories have been proposed that link the shift of the poleward edge of the Northern Hadley cell to changes in the meridional temperature gradient. Moreover, model simulations have been carried out to analyse the cause of observed and projected changes in the large-scale atmosphere circulation. However, the question of the underlying drivers and particularly the possible role of global warming is still debated. Here, we use a statistical-dynamical atmosphere model (SDAM) to analyse the sensitivity of the Northern Hemisphere Hadley cell, storm tracks, jet streams and planetary waves to changes in temperature fields by systematically altering the zonal and meridional temperature gradient as well as the global mean surface temperature.
The Impact of Different Instructions on Vietnamese EFL Students’ Acquisition of Formulaic Sequences
Authors: Ha Do Thi
Published: July 2017

The paper explores how various teaching methods, namely Phonology-Based Instruction (PBI) and Translation-Based Instruction (TBI), have an effect on students’ acquisition of formulaic sequences. 20 multiword expressions were taught to 48 Vietnamese EFL students from three intact classes as 2 treatment groups (PBI and TBI) and 1 control group. Right after completing the tasks, the three groups were tested on their ability to identify (Form Recognition) and produce (Form and Meaning Recall) the lexical phrases by an immediate post-test. A delayed test was administered two weeks later for better comparsion of their retention. The results showed that PBI and TBI groups significantly outperformed the control one on most of the test levels. Especially, TBI tended to be more effective than PBI in two cases as regards both Repeating and Non-repeating items. It is believed that if the results and the proposed suggestions of this research are taken into consideration, major improvements could occur in language teaching programs, leading to students’ higher vocabulary uptake.
Marcel Gauchet e a saída contemporânea da religião
Authors: Lott Henrique Marques
Published: July 2017

Este artigo procura perquirir sobre a situação atual da saída da religião no âmbito da teoria do filósofo francês Marcel Gauchet. O que se objetiva é uma aproximação compreensiva a alguns conceitos que permeiam seu pensamento acerca do fenômeno religioso. A análise que desenvolvemos está dividida em quatro partes distintas. Na primeira parte explora-se mais especificamente as bases do conceito gauchetiano de religião. Trata-se de um conceito que, como veremos, traz uma concepção que acolhe a ideia de uma religião em estado puro ou em estado de essência. Na segunda parte, nos deteremos na noção de saída da religião em um sentido mais geral do vocabulário de nosso autor, abordando um pouco do processo histórico dessa saída, seus inícios e seus principais desdobramentos. Na terceira parte, dirigimos nossos esforços compreensivos para a situação atual da saída da religião e para as novas configurações que se apresentam como espiritualidades fora da religião. Na quarta e última parte, procuramos fazer uma reflexão sobre a religiosidade contemporânea brasileira a partir da perspectiva teórica aberta pelo filósofo francês. O que é possível entrever no contexto da análise aqui proposta, é que a dinâmica da saída da religião, que nos colocou em conexão direta com uma experiência desencantada de mundo, não elimina a religião e muito menos a fé religiosa. Apesar de delimitar novos papeis para a religião — ao retirá-la da esfera mais estrita do político — a saída da religião não exclui a participação das religiões no campo da esfera pública e da sociedade civil.   