bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of Li(Li0.05Ni0.6Fe0.1Mn0.25)O2 Cathode Material for Lithim Ion Batteries
Authors: Nichelson A. , Thanikaikarasan S. , Karuppasamy K. , Karthickprabhu S. , Mahalingam T. , Shajan X. Sahaya , Valenzuela Edgar
Published: August 2018

A new type of lithium enriched cathode material Li (Li0.05Ni0.6Fe0.1Mn0.25)O2 was synthesized by sol-gel method with citric acid as a chelating agent. The structural and morphological studies were systematically investigated through X-ray diffraction, SEM with EDS, FT-IR and Raman analyses. The crystallite size of the Li (Li0.05Ni0.6Fe0.1Mn0.25)O2 cathode material was found to be 45 nm thereby leads to the feasible movement of lithium ion all through the material. FT-IR spectroscopy was used to confirm the metal-oxygen interaction in the prepared cathode material. The electrical properties of the Li (Li0.05Ni0.6Fe0.1Mn0.25)O2 cathode material were studied by impedance and dielectric spectral analyzes. Li (Li0.05Ni0.6Fe0.1Mn0.25)O2 showed a maximum ionic conductivity of 10-6 S/cm at ambient temperature.
The effectiveness and equity of public-private partnerships in education: A quasi-experimental evaluation of 17 countries
Authors: Baum Donald R.
Published: August 2018

I estimate achievement effects of education public-private partnerships (PPPs) in 17 countries on the 2009 PISA assessment. Enrollment in PPP schools is tied to student wealth and prior academic ability. PPP students outperform their public peers on half of all outcomes. After accounting for selection, the PPP performance advantage remains on one-quarter of outcomes. However, nearly all of these performance differences are accounted for by school-level peer group effects. PPP schools are outperforming their public counterparts not through any advantages in productive efficiency but through sorting of more capable students.
Market logic at school: Emerging intra-school competition between private and public STEM programmes in Israel
Authors: Kaptzon Adi , Yemini Miri
Published: August 2018

This study analyses the de facto emerging intra-school competition between the Israeli Ministry of Education (MOE) and external organisations at public Israeli secondary schools by exploring science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programmes. Given on-going privatisation processes within the education system, the participation of external organisations in schools has become significant, greatly affecting municipalities’ authority and schools principals’ autonomy. This case-study provides a comprehensive examination of this new form of intra-school competition and its possible impact on schools, based on in-depth interviews with school principals, representatives of STEM programmes, and officials at the MOE and a local education authority, as well as analysis of supporting documents. We show that despite its supposed regulatory role, the MOE is pushed to function as an additional player in this quasi-market, competing with external organisations and substituting its regulatory roles for additional market-player opportunities. Theoretical and empirical implications are suggested.
Asupan Seng dan Penyembuhan Luka Sirkumsisi
Authors: Prasetyo Bondan
Published: August 2018

Seng merupakan salah satu mikronutrien yang penting bagi tubuh. Salah satu fungsi seng  adalah mempercepat penyembuhan luka. Dari literatur, diketahui prevalensi defisiensi seng pada anak di Indonesia cukup tinggi. Hal ini disebabkan karena pola makan anak di Indonesia yang belum cukup mengandung seng sehingga tidak mampu memenuhi kebutuhan seng dalam tubuh.  Sirkumsisi merupakan  salah satu tindakan bedah  menimbulkan luka yang cukup menganggu akivitas bahkan berisiko menimbulkan infeksi zat gizi termasuk seng. Penyembuhan luka sirkumsisi yang cepat dan tidak menimbulkan komplikasi infeksi sangat dibutuhkan supaya anak dapat segera kembali beraktivitas normal.
Protein Biotoxins of Military Significance
Authors: Patočka Jiří , Středa Ladislav
Published: August 2018

There is a spectrum of several threat agents, ranging from nerve agents and mustard agents to natural substances, such as biotoxins and new, synthetic, bioactive molecules produced by the chemical industry, to the classical biological warfare agents. The new, emerging threat agents are biotoxins produced by animals, plants, fungi, and bacteria. Many types of organisms produce substances that are toxic to humans. Examples of such biotoxins are botulinum toxin, tetanus toxin, and ricin. Several bioactive molecules produced by the pharmaceutical industry can be even more toxic than are the classical chemical warfare agents. Such new agents, like the biotoxins and bioregulators, often are called mid-spectrum agents. The threat to humans from agents developed by modern chemical synthesis and by genetic engineering also must be considered, since such agents may be more toxic or more effective in causing death or incapacitation than classical warfare agents. By developing effective medical protection and treatment against the most likely chemical and mid-spectrum threat agents, the effects of such agents in a war scenario or following a terrorist attack can be reduced. Toxin-mediated diseases have made humans ill for millennia. Unfortunately, the use of biological agents as weapons of terror has now been realized, and separating naturally occurring disease from bioterroristic events has become an important public health goal. The key to timely identification of such attacks relies on education of primary care physicians, first responders, and public health officials.
Apoptotic Machinery: The Bcl-2 Family Proteins in the Role of Inspectors and Superintendents
Authors: Tichý Aleš
Published: August 2018

Programmed cell death, apoptosis, plays an integral role in a variety of biological events, e.g. morphogenesis, removal of unwanted or harmful cells, tissue homeostasis etc. Members of the Bcl-2 family have been described as the key players in the regulation of the apoptotic process. This family consists of proteins that prevent apoptosis (Bcl-2–like) and two structurally distinct subgroups (Bax-like and BH3–only) that on the contrary promote cell death. Majority of their response is concentrated to the mitochondrial level. In this paper, besides reviewing some new information in this field we focused on how they interact among each other and on the way they sense and influence the death signals from the environment. Here, we compare Bcl-2 family to inspectors and superintendents since they supervise the manufacturing process of cell death and they determine whether the cell will die or it will resist and survive.
Aesthetics in Implantology
Authors: Somanathan Rakesh V. , Šimůnek Antonín
Published: August 2018

Aesthetics in implantology is a topic currently attracting lot of attention from dental implantologists all over the world. It includes both white and red aesthetics with much greater importance been given to the red aesthetics. In this article, both hard tissue and soft tissue procedures and techniques, used in the development of implant recipient sites will be presented and discussed, briefly outlining the treatment planning and also various dental materials used in enhancing aesthetics in implant restorative procedures.
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, Phytosterols and Cholesterol Metabolism in the Mediterranean Diet
Authors: Zadák Zdeněk , Hyšpler Radomír , Tichá Alena , Solichová Dagmar , Bláha Vladimír , Melichar Bohuslav
Published: August 2018

The objective of this work was to review nutritional components of the Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet is not a specific diet plan or diet program but a collection of eating habits that are traditionally followed by the people of the Mediterranean region. There are at least 16 countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea and food habits vary between these countries according to culture, ethnic background and religion. The Mediterranean diet, containing olive oil, fish, fruits and vegetable is associated with a low rate of cardivascular and cancer diseases. This diet is rich in phytosterols, squalene, dietary fibre, antioxidants, phenolic substances and polyunsaturated acids.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Isolated from the Human Bone Marrow: Cultivation, Phenotypic Analysis and Changes in Proliferation Kinetics
Authors: Soukup Tomáš , Mokrý Jaroslav , Karbanová Jana , Pytlík Robert , Suchomel Petr , Kučerová Lenka
Published: August 2018

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are rare elements living in various organs (e.g., bone marrow), able to differentiate into specialized tissues, such as bone, cartilage, tendon, and myocardium. Since the first description of MSCs by Fridenshtein, several investigators have shown that these cells can also differentiate into chondrocytes, adipocytes, and, at least, in rodents into skeletal myoblasts. Later on, more primitive progenitor cells were characterized, able to give rise not only to limb-bud mesoderm, but also to cells of visceral mesoderm. Those cells were named mesodermal progenitor cells (MPCs). The aim of our study was to characterize and compare the biological properties and spontaneous differentiation potential of two different cell types (MSCs and MPCs) isolated from the human vertebral body bone marrow. The results of our experiments proved that the MPCs can be expanded beyond Hayflick’s limit and differed from MSCs in morphology, biological and phenotypic characteristics. Because of their high proliferative and differentiation potential, MPCs can become more attractive source of adult stem cells for therapeutic purposes.
Glycation and Advanced Glycation End-Products in Laboratory Experiments in Vivo and in Vitro
Authors: Beránek Martin , Nováková Daniela , Rozsíval Pavel , Dršata Jaroslav , Palička Vladimír
Published: August 2018

The purpose of our study was to determine the amount of glycated proteins and advanced glycation end products (AGE) in cataractous lens homogenates of patients who underwent phacoemulsification, and to define a simple in vitro protein model of glycoxidation. Analysis of 30 cataractous lenses (15 diabetic and 15 non-diabetic) revealed a significant increase in both glycated lens proteins of diabetics compared with the controls (0.15 vs 0.08 nmol/mg protein, P < 0.01) and AGE-linked fluorescence at 440 nm (4.8 vs 2.8 AU/mg protein, P < 0.01). The presence of AGE fluorescence in lenses indicates the role of oxidative stress in cataractogenesis. Fifty-six days incubation of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, used as model proteins, with 500 mM D-fructose at 25 and 37 °C led to a complete inhibition of ALT and AST activities. The fluorescence of both aminotransferases rose according to the chosen incubation temperature: 37 °C > 25 °C > 4 °C. ALT and AST incubated in a medium containing D-fructose are subject to nonenzymatic glycation followed by a consequent formation of AGE products. Our data: i) support the concept of glycation-glycoxidation pathway appearing in diabetic patients; ii) form a base for determination of the efficiency of various antioxidative compounds in vitro.
Prevalence, Epidemiological Aspects and Clinical Importance of TT Virus Infection in Slovakia
Authors: Kristian Pavol , Schréter Ivan , Siegfried Leonard , Jarčuška Pavol , Birošová Eva , Porubčin Štefan , Rajnič Alojz , Gočalová Andrea
Published: August 2018

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence, clinical impact and importance of different risk factors of transmission of TTV infection in Slovakia using two PCR methods. Sera of 426 adult persons were examined. TTV DNA was identified by PCR using primers from N22 and untranslated region (UTR) respectively. The established prevalence of TTV tested with N22 and UTR primers according to patients groups was: acute hepatitis of unknown etiology 4 resp. 28 of 37, acute hepatitis B 3 resp. 29 of 38, chronic hepatitis B 11 resp. 41 of 44, chronic hepatitis C 10 resp. 93 of 102, hemodialysis patients 13 resp. 72 of 72, health care workers 0 resp. 27 of 33, control group 8 resp. 83 of 100. Using N22 primers, TTV infection occurred more frequently in chronic hepatitis B group compared with health care workers, if UTR primers were used the group of hemodialysis patients differed significantly from both acute hepatitis groups, health care workers and controls (p<0.05). From possible risk factors hemodialysis and transfusion count showed notable differences. Bilirubin and aminotransferase levels did not differ between TTV positive and negative groups. No pathogenetic role of TT virus in liver injury was confirmed.
Analysis of Thrombotic Complications After Catheter Ablation
Authors: Haman Luděk , Pařízek Petr , Malý Radovan , Duda Jiří , Malý Jaroslav
Published: August 2018

Introduction: Thromboembolic complications are described in about 1% of the patients undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA). The aim of this study was to analyze thrombotic complications after RFA and to determine prothrombotic states in patients with thrombotic complications. Methods: We analyzed data from 400 patients (212 females) who underwent 453 RFA procedures for supraventricular tachycardias. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed one day before and after RFA in all patients. We evaluated the clinical and laboratory (in patients with thrombotic complications after RFA) risk factors of thromboembolism. Results: We observed thrombotic complication in 7 (1.75%) patients (6 females), thrice flail thrombus in the right atrium, flail thrombus in the inferior vena cava, femoral vein thrombosis with massive pulmonary embolism, femoral vein mural thrombus and upper extremity digital arteries embolization; four of them were asymptomatic. As a prothrombotic state we identified factor V Leiden mutation in one case and the use of oral contraceptives in two cases. Two other patients had a positive history of thromboembolic events. In a subgroup of females the use of oral contraceptives (p=0.13) or a positive history of thromboembolism (p=0.21) were not identified as important risk factors. Conclusion: Echocardiographic detection of asymptomatic thrombotic complications contributed to the higher percentage of these complications in our study. Although we can identify the risk factor (laboratory or clinical) in a majority of patients with a thromboembolic complication, occurrence of these complications is unpredictable.
Course and Prognosis of Sarcoidosis in a Referral Setting in Turkey; Analysis of 166 Patients
Authors: Uygun Sedat , Yanardağ Halil , Karter Yesari , Demirci Sabriye
Published: August 2018

Backround: Clinical manifestations and prognosis of sarcoidosis are heterogenous and the prevalence varies depending on the country, area and race evaluated. Also the organs involved and courses of the disease differ greatly between countries, areas, races and individuals. Aims: To investigate the sociodemographic characteristics, clinical presentation and symptoms and to determine the severity and prognosis of sarcoidosis in Turkey as a referral center. Methods: Between January and July 2003 we retrospectively evaluated the outcome of the patients with sarcoidosis whose first clinical visits were between 1965 and 2003 in the multidisciplinary referral setting RS at Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty of the University of Istanbul. Data collected about each patient included sociodemographic characteristics, clinical presentation, symptoms, date of diagnosis, date and age of onset, method and stage of disease at the date of diagnosis and at the date of last evaluation; the mortality and survival rate were calculated. One hundred and sixty six consecutive patients whose first clinical visits were between 1965 and 2003 in the multidisciplinary RS at Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty were enrolled. We contacted every patient in our cohort by telephone calls or home visits. All those contacted were called back to outpatient clinic for a formal evaluation between June and September 2003. A formal physical examination and thorax radiography were performed in patients who came to the hospital. Their radiological stage, signs, symptoms and associated extrapulmonary manifestations were recorded. Results: At the initial presentation, the mean age of diagnosis was 40.3 years. The 31–40 age group is the group with the highest number of patients. Coughing was the most frequent symptom and erythema nodosum was the most frequent sign in both sexes. Thirty eight percent of patients had extrathoracic involvement. The most frequent extrapulmonary site of involvement was skin. The mortality rate was 11.6% (10.8% in females and 13% in males). Comorbidity was 3% (5 females, 1 male). Females, youngs and patients without extrathoracic involvement had higher survival rates. Conclusion: Clinical characteristics, course and prognosis of sarcoidosis vary in different studies. The results may vary accordingly to ethnic, geographic, social and economic conditions.
The Model of D-Galactosamine-Induced Injury of Rat Hepatocytes in Primary Culture
Authors: Kučera Otto , Lotková Halka , Kanďár Roman , Héžová Renata , Mužáková Vladimíra , Červinková Zuzana
Published: August 2018

D-galactosamine (GalN) is a highly selective hepatotoxin that causes liver damage similar to human viral hepatitis via depletion of uridine nucleotides, which subsequently diminishes synthesis of RNA and proteins. Model of galactosamine hepatotoxicity is frequently used in animal experiments in vitro. The purpose of our study was to establish the model of GalN-induced hepatocyte injury in in vitro conditions using primocultures of rat hepatocytes as an important prerequisite for further experiments in which we would like to study potential hepatoprotective effect of various substances. Rate of hepatocyte injury was evaluated by morphological changes, changes in cell viability, albumin production, mitochondrial membrane potential, activity of mitochondrial dehydrogenases and glutathione content. Marked dose dependent hepatocyte injury was found after 24-hour incubation with GalN. Based on the results we suggest as an optimal model for short-term toxicity test exposure to GalN for 24 hours in dose of 40 mM.
Treatment of Postparotidectomy Fistulae with Fibrin Glue
Authors: Zwaveling Sander , Steenvoorde Pascal , da Costa Stephen Andrew
Published: August 2018

Although fistulae resulting from superficial parotidectomy represent a serious problem, there is still little consensus on the optimal treatment. Some suggest management by applying dressings, while others advise surgery. In recent years several other strategies have been proposed. In this manuscript, we present two cases of postparotidectomy fistulae treated by injection with fibrin tissue glue (Tissucol® Duo 500, Baxter AG, Vienna, Austria). Furthermore, a review of the literature is presented. In both patients the fistulae completely healed within months without complications. A literature search revealed that this is the first time postparotidectomy fistulae were treated this way. We conclude that postparotidectomy fistulae can be effectively treated with fibrin glue. Moreover, this treatment is simple, safe and has no side effects.
Grade-III Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis with Unstability: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Šponer Pavel , Urban Karel
Published: August 2018

We reviewed the cases of three patients with an unstable grade-III slipped capital femoral epiphysis treated between 2001 and 2003. Clinical records and imaging studies were reviewed for patient’s history, anatomic features of the slip, definitive treatment and clinical outcome. The duration of the follow-up ranged from twenty-four to fourty-eight months.
Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis Induced by Olanzapine
Authors: Christen Susanne , Gueissaz Félix , Anex Romain , Zullino Daniele Fabio
Published: August 2018

The case of a 56 years old man is presented, who developed acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis 5 days after the introduction of olanzapine 10 mg. Multiple 1-mm pustules appeared on the whole body, concentrated especially on her neck and face. Within 2 days, the eruption was increasingly accompanied by erythema and pruritus. No fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, arthralgias or myalgias were recorded. The diagnosis was corroborated by hystopathology. After 7 days of treatment, olanzapine and valproate were stopped. Concomitantly, cetirizine 20mg p.o. and methylprednisolone 500 mg i.v. were given once. During the following week betamethasone cream was applied, and the pustular eruption resolved completely.
The Fate of Iron in The Organism and Its Regulatory Pathways
Authors: Mladěnka Přemysl , Hrdina Radomír , Hübl Mojmír , Šimůnek Tomáš
Published: August 2018

Iron is an essential element involved in many life-necessary processes. Interestingly, in mammals there is no active excretion mechanism for iron. Therefore iron kinetics has to be meticulously regulated. The most important step for regulation of iron kinetics is absorption. The absorption takes place in small intestine and it is implicated that it requires several proteins. Iron is then released from enterocytes into the circulation and delivered to the cells. Iron movement inside the cell is only partially elucidated and its traffic to mitochondia is not known. Surprisingly, the regulation of various proteins related to iron kinetics and energy metabolism at the molecular level is better described. On contrary, the complex control of iron absorption cannot be fully explicated with present knowledge.
Expression of Cytoskeletal Proteins in Hepatic Stellatecells Isolated from Normal and Cirrhotic Rat Liver
Authors: Jiroutová Alena , Majdiaková Lenka , Čermáková Martina , Köhlerová Renata , Kanta Jiří
Published: August 2018

Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are located in Disse spaces of normal rat liver. In their quiescent state they serve as a storage site for vitamin A. In fibrotic liver they become activated, proliferate and they undergo transdifferentiation into myofibroblast-like cells. Changes in the cell phenotype are accompanied by changes in the cellular cytoskeleton. We have studied the expression of α-smooth muscle actin and intermediate filament proteins vimentin, desmin and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) by immunocytochemistry in HSC cultured for 2 or 7 days after isolation. Normal or cirrhotic rat liver was perfused with solutions of pronase and collagenase and HSC were isolated by density gradient centrifugation of the resulting cell suspension. Liver cirrhosis was produced in rats by repeated carbon tetrachloride administration. Vimentin was detected in all cells from normal and cirrhotic liver. The concentration of desmin in the cells from cirrhotic liver was slightly higher than that in normal cells and it increased with time in culture. GFAP could be detected only in normal cells 2 days after their isolation. In contrast, alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was absent from normal cells at this time but its expression was pronouced later. In most cells from cirrhotic liver this antigen was already present on the second day of culture and its expression further increased.
In vitro Inactivation of Rat Brain Acetylcholinesterase by DSP-4 and Its Derivatives OS-21 and OS-23 and Protective Activity of Tacrine (9-Amino-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroacridine)
Authors: Patočka Jiří , Jun Daniel , Kuča Kamil
Published: August 2018

Tertiary N-haloethylamines are able to cyclize to the corresponding aziridinium ions. The inhibitory activity of the DSP-4 (N-(o-brombenzyl)-N-ethyl-2-chlorethylamine) and its two derivatives OS-21 (N-benzyl-N-ethyl-2-chloroethylamine) and OS-23 (N-fenylethyl-N-ethyl-2-chloroethylamine) was studied toward rat brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in vitro. The influence of the THA (tacrine; 9–amino-1,2,3,4–tetrahydroacridine) on AChE inhibition by these substances was also evaluated. The results demonstrated that all of three aziridinium compounds formed in solution caused a timeand concentration-dependent irreversible enzyme inhibition. The association of aziridinium compounds with the AChE was a relatively slow second-order reaction. DSP-4 showed the fastest rate of AChE alkylation, OS-21 had a lowered rate and OS-23 displayed the lowest rate. Pretreatment of the enzyme by THA decreased the rate of alkylation by all three aziridinium compounds by allosteric mechanism.
Comparison of the Effects on Spinal Reflexes of Acetylsalicylate and Metamizol in Spinalized and Normal Rats
Authors: Genç Osman , Turgut Sebahat , Turgut Günfer , Kortunay Selim
Published: August 2018

The effects of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, acetylsalicylate and metamizol, on spinal monosynaptic reflexes were investigated in spinalized and normal rats. Adult rats (n=36) weighing 150–200 g were anesthetized with ketamine and artificially ventilated. Half of rats were spinalized at C1 level. A laminectomy was performed in the lumbosacral region. Following electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve by single pulses, reflex potentials were recorded from the ipsilateral L5 ventral root. Acetylsalicylate was administered orally (100 mg/kg for both spinalized and normal rats). Metamizol was administered intramuscularly (15 mg/kg for both spinalized and normal rats). These drug administrations significantly decreased the amplitude of reflex response in all groups (p<0.05). These data verify that observed inhibition by acetylsalicylicate and metamizol may be at the level of spinal cord. Also we suggested that the cyclooxygenase products of arachidonic acid may play an important role in regulating the reflex potential.
Transplantation of Bone Marrow Derived Progenitor Cells in Acute Myocardial Infarction. The First Results
Authors: Pudil Radek , Vojáček Jan , Filip Stanislav , Měřička Pavel , Šťásek Josef , Straková Hana , Vokurková Doris , Solař Miroslav , Mokrý Jaroslav , Dominik Jan , Malý Jaroslav
Published: August 2018

The intracoronary administration of autologous bone marrow cells (BMCs) has been shown to improve the left ventricle function in the course of acute myocardial infarction. Therefore we have started a clinical trial using transplantation of BMCs in the acute phase of myocardial infarction. The aim of our study is to assess the feasibility and safety of this procedure, and effect on the left ventricle function of these patients. We describe the first experience in two patients with acute myocardial infarction reperfused using direct stenting. The aspiration of bone marrow from the sternum provided sufficient amount of the cells for transplantation. No serious ischemia and no changes in coronary artery patency were detected after intracoronary infusion. The left ventricle ejection fraction was increasing throughout the time of three-month follow-up. No other complications (ventricular arrhythmias, reinfarction, thrombus formation) were detected.
Magnesium Urinary Excretion in Diabetic Adolescents
Authors: Drižiene Žaneta , Stakisaitis Donatas , Balsiene Janina
Published: August 2018

Objective: to define peculiarities of urinary magnesium (Mg) excretion in diabetic adolecents; to elucidate gender-related differences in Mg urinary excretion; to determine urinary Mg excretion differences between diabetic and age-matched healthy children. The diurnal, nocturnal and 24–h urinary Mg level in adolescent boys and girls (aged 13–17 years) with type I diabetes mellitus (DM) and in age-matched control groups of healthy boys and girls was examined. Additionally the adolescent girls were examined during different phases of their menstrual cycle. Results: Diurnal, overnight and 24–h Mg urinary excretion in diabetic adolescent boys and girls was significantly higher than in healthy ones. In diabetic boys 24 h Mg excretion was higher than in diabetic girls (4.59±1.4 vs. 3.34±1.5 mmol; p<0.05). The investigation showed gender-related differences in Mg urinary excretion in healthy adolescents: 24–h Mg urinary excretion was significantly higher in boys than in girls (2.66±0.9 vs. 2.1±0.9 mmol; p<0.05). The level of Mg in the nocturnal urine of boys and girls was significantly higher than in diurnal. Urine Mg was negatively related to height in adolescent girls. Conclusion: Diabetic adolescents excrete significantly more Mg with urine as compared to healthy ones.
Mucosal Mast Cells in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Tunc Bilge , Filik Levent , Altıntas Engin , Turhan Nesrin , Ulker Aysel , Dağlı Ülkü
Published: August 2018

Even though exciting progresses have been until now, further studies are necessary to clearly understand the significance of MMC. Mast cells are thought to participate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. However, their role in the pathogenesis remains unsettled. The specific aims of this study were to (1) examine mucosal mast cell counts in the cecum in patient with IBS, and IBD (2) compare MMC between the disease groups. We showed increased MMC count in IBS.
The Changes of Peripheral Nerve Microstructure After Surgical Manipulation – Experiment on Rat Model
Authors: Kanta Martin , Němeček Stanislav , Cerman Jaroslav , Ehler Edvard
Published: August 2018

The aim of our study was to describe histopathology of the peripheral nerve after its circular release followed by embedding in different environs. We operated on 18 male rats divided into 3 groups. In the first group right femoral nerve was surgically released. In the second group the nerve was enveloped by the subcutaneous fat flap. In the third one the nerve was wrapped up by the skeletal muscle. Six weeks later the animals were killed by exsanguination. The femoral nerve, in the first group, did not show any pathological changes. In the second group 3 animals appeared normal or nearly normal, nevertheless in 3 of them perineural fibrosis and axonal degeneration were observed. Histological reaction in the third group disclosed dispersed axonal injury. Our experiments using rat model imitate situation in humans. The results obtained will help us in making meaningful decision when performing peripheral nerve injury.
Two Siblings with Fulminant Viral Hepatitis A: Case Report
Authors: Yalniz Mehmet , Ataseven Hüseyin , Çelebı Selman , Poyrazoğlu Orhan Kürşat , Sirma Nusret , Bahçecıoğlu Ibrahim Halil
Published: August 2018

Fulminant hepatitis is a rare complication of acute hepatitis A infection. Nevertheless, the seroepidemiology of the infection is rapidly changing with the developing world, rendering more adults susceptible to the infection, in particular with more severe course. We report here fulminant hepatitis A infection with a mortal course during an epidemic period in two siblings. Although it causes a self-limited mild disease, hepatitis A virus may have a severe course including fulminant hepatitis and may lead to mortality, especially in older ages. Hence, the risk of hepatitis A virus infection and its complications should be reduced with measures of immunization and sanitation.
Mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin predicts poor outcome in non-selected patients admitted to an intensive care unit
Authors: Bellia Chiara , Agnello Luisa , Lo Sasso Bruna , Bivona Giulia , Raineri Maurizio Santi , Giarratano Antonino , Ciaccio Marcello
Published: August 2018

Background

Mortality risk and outcome in critically ill patients can be predicted by scoring systems, such as APACHE and SAPS. The identification of prognostic biomarkers, simple to measure upon admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) is an open issue. The aim of this observational study was to assess the prognostic value of plasma mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proADM) at ICU admission in non-selected patients in comparison to Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHEII) and Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPSII) scores.

Methods

APACHEII and SAPSII scores were calculated after 24 h from ICU admission. Plasma MR-proADM levels were measured by TRACE-Kryptor on admission (T0) and after 24 h (T24). The primary endpoint was intra-hospital mortality; secondary endpoint was length of stay (LOS).

Results

One hundred and twenty-six consecutive non-selected patients admitted to an ICU were enrolled. Plasma MR-proADM levels were correlated with LOS (r=0.28; p=0.0014 at T0; r=0.26; p=0.005 at T24). Multivariate analysis showed that T0 MR-proADM was a significant predictor of mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 1.27; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.03–1.55; p=0.022). Receiver operating characteristic curves analysis revealed that MR-proADM on ICU admission identified non-survivors with high accuracy, not inferior to the one of APACHEII and SAPSII scores (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.71; 95%CI: 0.62–0.78; p=0.0002 for MR-proADM; AUC: 0.71; 95%CI: 0.62–0.79; p<0.0001 for APACHEII; AUC: 0.8; 95%CI: 0.71–0.87; p<0.0001 for SAPSII).

Conclusions

Our findings point out a role of MR-proADM as a prognostic tool in non-selected patients in ICUs being a reliable predictor of mortality and LOS and support its use on admission to an ICU to help the management of critically ill patients.
Asymptotic Behavior of the Fractional Order three Species Prey–Predator Model
Authors: Sambath M. , Ramesh P. , Balachandran K.
Published: August 2018

In this work, we introduce fractional order predator–prey model with infected predator. First, we prove different mathematical results like existence, uniqueness, non-negativity and boundedness of the solutions of fractional order dynamical system. Further, we investigate the local and global stability of all feasible equilibrium points of the system. Numerical results are illustrated as several examples.
Contingent Convertible Bonds for Sovereign Debt Risk Management
Authors: Consiglio Andrea , Zenios Stavros A.
Published: August 2018

We consider convertible bonds that contractually stipulate payment standstill, contingent on a market indicator of a sovereign’s credit worthiness breaching a distress threshold. This financial innovation limits ex ante the likelihood of debt crises and imposes ex post risk sharing between creditors and the debtor. Drawing from literature on contingent contracts, neglected risks, and bank CoCo, we extend prevailing arguments in favor of sovereign CoCo (S-CoCo). We discuss issues relating to their design: which market trigger, market discipline and sovereign incentives, and errors of false alarms or missed crises, and provide supporting evidence with eurozone data and a simple simulation on the use of S-CoCo. We develop a risk management model using these instruments to trade off the expected cost for sovereign financing over a long horizon, with tail risk. The model shows how contingent bonds can improve a country’s debt risk profile. Using Greece as a case study the model illustrates improvements in expected cost vs. tail risk for the country when using contingent debt.
Interaction between an edge dislocation near a circular void within the framework of the theory of strain gradient elasticity
Authors: Davoudi Kamyar
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this paper was to consider an edge dislocation near a circular hole within the isotropic theory of gradient elasticity. The stress field is derived with the help of a stress function method. The gradient stresses possess no singularity at the dislocation line. As a result, the image force exerted on the dislocation due to the presence of the hole remains finite when the dislocation approaches the interface. The gradient solution demonstrates a non-classical size effect.
Matrix acidizing: a fouling mitigation process in oil and gas wells
Authors: Pourabdollah Kobra
Published: August 2018

Fouling mitigation in underground reservoirs enhances the permeability and the flow capacity of production or injection wells and is carried out by reservoir stimulation methods such as matrix acidizing. This process is known as the most significant method used to improve the production or injection indices of oil and gas wells as well as water and steam wells. Here, different aspects of this process, its chemical advances and novel high-technologies are compared and discussed in order to reveal their advantages and determine under what conditions they are applicable. Knowledge for adapting the proper acid treatment with the well characteristics is another issue that has been considered in this paper. The final goal is to present the state-of-the-art fouling mitigation methods based on novel experiments, simulations and investigations in order to emphasize the engineering aspects of fouling mitigation in oil and gas wells by matrix acidizing.
Association of oxidative stress marker ischemia modified albumin and polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescent and young girls
Authors: Kösem Arzu , Tokmak Aytekin , Bodur Serkan , Aksoy Rıfat Taner , Topcuoglu Canan , Turhan Turan , Tasci Yasemin
Published: August 2018

Objective

The pathophysiologic features of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) seem to be a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. However, data regarding the exact effect of oxidative stress on PCOS is conflicting. This cross sectional and case-control study was designed to compare the serum ischemia modified albumin (IMA) levels in adolescent and young girls with and without PCOS.

Methods

A total of 41 non-obese adolescents and young girls (15–21 years) diagnosed as PCOS and 41 age and body mass index (BMI) matched controls were enrolled to study. The main features of PCOS and markers of chronic inflammation were determined together with serum IMA levels at the time of study enrollment.

Results

The C-reactive protein and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were within the normal ranges and also there were no significant difference between the two groups (p>0.05). Serum levels of IMA were significantly increased in adolescents with PCOS respect to healthy controls (0.44±0.12 versus 0.35±0.10 absorbance units, p<0.001). And also there was a significant positive correlation between serum IMA and BMI in all groups (r=0.274, p=0.013).

Conclusion

Serum IMA levels were higher in PCOS patients than in the healthy controls. This elevation may contribute to the increased cardiovascular diseases risk in PCOS patients.
An unprecedented structural phase transition in struvite-type compounds: dimorphism of KMgAsO4(H2O)6
Authors: Weil Matthias
Published: August 2018

The crystal structure of struvite-type KMgAsO4(H2O)6 has been redetermined from single crystal X-ray diffraction data at room temperature. The previous structure model based on powder X-ray diffraction data was confirmed with higher precision and accuracy and with all hydrogen atoms located. KMgAsO4(H2O)6 undergoes a reversible phase transition of the continuous type at 263(2) K, changing the symmetry from orthorhombic to monoclinic. The corresponding Pnm21→P1121 symmetry reduction is of a translationengleiche type with index 2 and was monitored by temperature-dependent powder X-ray diffraction measurements. Such a phase transition is unprecedented for struvite-type compounds. The crystal structure of the monoclinic polymorph was determined from a two-domain crystal at 100 K. Except for the motion of one of the water molecules towards stronger hydrogen-bonding interactions, structural changes between the two polymorphs are small.
“A New Genus:” Mary Wollstonecraft and the Feminization of Elocution
Authors: Abbott Don Paul
Published: August 2018

Mary Wollstonecraft is significant figure in the development of women's literature yet her importance in the evolution of rhetoric has yet to be fully recognized. Relatively little recognition has been accorded her work The Female Reader. Yet that text is the first elocutionary text written by a women, specifically for women, and which includes numerous selections from writing by woman authors. As such, Wollstonecraft's work initiated a place for women in the influential and enduring elocutionary movement. The Female Reader also inspired other authors, female and male, to continue the production of elocutionary manuals intended for women throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. Thus Wollstonecraft and her Female Reader were significant in establishing a tradition of women's participation in rhetorical theory and pedagogy.
The relationship between lipid profiles in pregnancy and preterm delivery: a systematic review
Authors: Aghaie Zohreh , Hajian Sepideh , Abdi Fatemeh
Published: August 2018

Background: High-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) are associated with maternal hormonal changes which can lead to pregnancy complications. High lipid levels during pregnancy may be accompanied by an increased risk of spontaneous preterm labor. The purpose of this review was to determine the relationship between lipid profiles in pregnancy and preterm delivery.

Methods: A systematic search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct databases to find cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies on the associations between lipid profiles in pregnancy and preterm delivery. The search results were limited to papers published during 2000-2018. The quality of the selected studies was assessed based on the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist. Finally, a total of 25 eligible high-quality papers were reviewed.

Results: A high maternal TG level in the first trimester of pregnancy was identified as a significant risk factor for preterm delivery. Low TG, HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) and LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were uniquely associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery. High TC, TG, and LDL-C levels increased the risk of spontaneous preterm labor. A further association was found between high TG and TC levels and an elevated risk of preterm labor before 34 weeks of gestation. The risk of preterm labor before 34 weeks and during the 34th-37th weeks of gestation increased with increasing TG and TC levels. Moreover, overweight women who had a delivery before 34 weeks exhibited significant increases in TC and LDL concentrations during early pregnancy.

Conclusion: Lipid metabolism undergoes complicated changes in pregnancy. Lipid levels (LDL, HDL, TC, and TG) above or below the normal range during pregnancy increase the risk of preterm delivery. Considering the significance of maternal lipid metabolism in the incidence of preterm delivery, lipid profile screening in early pregnancy can largely contribute to the prevention of preterm delivery. Further studies are warranted to meticulously examine the effects of lipid profile on preterm delivery.
Запаси підстилки та живого надґрунтового вкриття як показник ризику виникнення пожеж у соснових лісах Полісся
Authors: Voron V. , Tkach O. , Sydorenko S. , Melnyk Ye.
Published: August 2018

Для лісового господарства України надзвичайно актуальною проблемою є боротьба з лісовими пожежами. У виникненні та розвитку пожеж ключову роль відіграє підстилка, яка є однією із основних складових лісових горючих матеріалів. Особливо це стосується соснових лісів Полісся, де нагромаджуються значні запаси підстилки. За наявності у нижніх шарах підстилки коріння сосни звичайної навіть пожежа слабкої інтенсивності з мінімальною висотою нагару може призводити до значних пошкоджень деревного виду.

Запас підстилки збільшується з віком і досягає максимуму у насадженнях 8-го класу віку. Найбільшу здатність до загорання має лишайникове надґрунтове вкриття та опадовий шар лісової підстилки (L), а найменшу – надґрунтове вкриття, яке формується переважно за рахунок мохів, брусниці та чорниці. Акумуляція значного запасу підстилки в сосняках Полісся вказує на потенційну можливість збільшення інтенсивності ушкодження під час лісової пожежі не тільки стовбурів дерев сосни, але й кореневих систем внаслідок згоряння підстилки або пошкодження кореневих лап і тонких коренів у верхніх шарах ґрунту.

Запаси підстилки в насадженні залежать від місця збору зразків. Найбільший запас підстилки зафіксовано біля стовбура, а найменший – у міжкроновому просторі. Найбільший обсяг мортмаси зафіксовано у нижньому шарі (H), а найменший – у верхньому  опадовому шарі. Маса всіх шарів підстилки збільшується з віком сосняків і зменшується із віддаленням від стовбура. У подібних за віком чистих соснових лісостанах запаси підстилки більші у багатших за трофністю умовах. Відмінність у запасах мортмаси різних за віком сосняків може досягати 300-400 %.
Водорегулювальна роль лісистості водозборів Горган
Authors: Oliinyk V. , Rak A.
Published: August 2018

Розглянуто вплив лісу на складники водного балансу і режим річкового стоку в умовах висотної поясності гірського району Горган в Українських Карпатах. З’ясовано, що із збільшенням висоти гірського рельєфу зростає сума річних опадів, схиловий і підземний види стоку води, зменшується сумарне випаровування вологи і транспірація деревостанів, а також збільшується лісистість водозборів, змінюється співвідношення площ ялинових і букових лісів. Охарактеризовано величини сумарного випаровування вологи лісом і польовими угіддями, а також транспірації насаджень залежно від гіпсометричних рівнів гірських схилів. Отримано дані щодо збільшення лісом випаровування вологи порівняно з польовими угіддями впродовж року і вегетаційного сезону. Наведено кількісні показники лісистості водозборів, річних опадів, стоку води і випаровування вологи для висотних поясів – буково-ялицевих, буково-ялицево-ялинових і ялинових лісів.

Проаналізовано особливості формування і проходження паводкового стоку води залежно від специфіки гірських природних умов. Отримано емпіричні формули щодо залежності основних характеристик паводків від лісистості і площі водозборів. Встановлено, що ліс, порівняно з польовими угіддями, здатний зменшувати максимальні піки паводків на 20 % і збільшувати їх тривалість у два рази.

Виявлено, що у гідрологічному відношенні найбільш значуща роль лісу на невеликих водозборах площею менше 100 км², у зв’язку з чим вони можуть слугувати об’єктами для оптимізації лісистості і екологічного удосконалення рубок головного користування. Рекомендовано також зменшувати лісоексплуатаційну діяльність по мірі збільшення висоти гірського рельєфу.
Смолопродуктивність соснових деревостанів в Україні
Authors: Osadchuk L. , Kondratiuk L.
Published: August 2018

Досліджено смолопродуктивність кліматипів сосни звичайної, які ростуть у різних лісорослинних умовах України. Встановлено найвищу смолопродуктивність дерев сосни звичайної черкаського, малополіського та київськополіського кліматипів, що ростуть в умовах Південного Полісся та Лісостепу. Відмінності смолопродуктивності сосни різних кліматипів дають підставу диференціювати сосняки за смолопродуктивністю з урахуванням лісорослинних умов.

Підвищена біологічна смолопродуктивність черкаського та київського кліматичних екотипів свідчить про перспективність масового відбору (виділення популяцій) для селекції сосни за смолопродуктивністю. До диференціації кліматипів сосни звичайної за смолопродуктивністю призводить комплекс таких чинників: середньорічна та максимальна температура повітря, сума активних температур, тривалість сонячного освітлення, а також середньорічна сума опадів та висота місцезростання над рівнем моря.

Здійснені дослідження розподілу дерев за смолопродуктивністю в підсочуваних насадженнях Малого та Західного Полісся дають підставу стверджувати, що в деревостанах переважають дерева середньої категорії смолопродуктивності. Другою за величиною є категорія дерев із пониженою, третьою – із високою смолопродуктивністю.