bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intra-Articular Fracture of the Base of the First Metacarpal Bone: Treatment Through a Volar Approach
Authors: Levy Violeta , Mazzola Marcelo , Gonzalez Martín
Published: January 2017

Background: Management of Bennett fractures has been controversial. Early reports supported closed reduction and casting with or without percutaneous pinning. Later, open reduction and internal fixation was advocated. The purpose of this article is to assess the surgical treatment using a direct volar approach. Methods: Between March 2008 and December 2014, 21 patients with intra-articular first metacarpal fractures displaced more than 1 mm were operated on using a direct volar approach. Fixation was done with micro-screws or K-wires, always placed from ulnar to radial during thumb supination. The articular step-off, secondary displacement incidence and consolidation rate time were measured. At final follow-up, we assessed the thumbs for range of motion, residual pain, and grip strength. Sensitive areas around the scar were evaluated. Mean follow-up was 8 months. Results: Anatomical reduction was achieved in all cases. One secondary displacement was registered. The mean distance between the tip of the thumb and the fifth metacarpophalangeal joint was less than 10 mm; reposition was complete. Mean palmar abduction was 63°. Grip strength averaged 84.6% of the opposite side. The mean visual analog scale score was 0. No sensory disturbances around the scar were recorded. Conclusions: The complete visualization of the first metacarpal articular surface is hard to accomplish from the dorsoradial aspect of the hand. The volar approach offers an excellent fracture exposure. It is possible to place the osteosynthesis in ulna-radial fashion from the smaller fragment achieving correct reduction and stabilization. In spite of the proximity to the radial and median nerve branches, we found no complications.
Low immunosuppressive burden after HLA-matched related or unrelated BMT using posttransplantation cyclophosphamide
Authors: Kanakry Christopher G. , Bolaños-Meade Javier , Kasamon Yvette L. , Zahurak Marianna , Durakovic Nadira , Furlong Terry , Mielcarek Marco , Medeot Marta , Gojo Ivana , Smith B. Douglas , Kanakry Jennifer A. , Borrello Ivan M. , Brodsky Robert A. , Gladstone Douglas E. , Huff Carol Ann , Matsui William H. , Swinnen Lode J. , Cooke Kenneth R. , Ambinder Richard F. , Fuchs Ephraim J. , de Lima Marcos J. , Andersson Borje S. , Varadhan Ravi , O’Donnell Paul V. , Jones Richard J. , Luznik Leo
Published: January 2017

Key Points

After PTCy, ∼50% of MRD alloBMT patients and ∼30% of MUD alloBMT patients required no additional systemic immunosuppression. By 1-year posttransplant, the vast majority of patients had permanently discontinued all systemic immunosuppression.
Therapeutic value of clofarabine in younger and middle-aged (18-65 years) adults with newly diagnosed AML
Authors: Löwenberg Bob , Pabst Thomas , Maertens Johan , van Norden Yvette , Biemond Bart J. , Schouten Harry C. , Spertini Olivier , Vellenga Edo , Graux Carlos , Havelange Violaine , de Greef Georgine E. , de Weerdt Okke , Legdeur Marie-Cecile J. C. , Kuball Juergen , Kooy Marinus van Marwijk , Gjertsen Bjorn T. , Jongen-Lavrencic Mojca , van de Loosdrecht Arjan A. , van Lammeren-Venema Daniëlle , Hodossy Beata , Breems Dimitri A. , Chalandon Yves , Passweg Jakob , Valk Peter J. M. , Manz Markus G. , Ossenkoppele Gert J.
Published: January 2017

Key Points

Clofarabine integrated in standard induction therapy for newly diagnosed AML reduces relapse probability but does not improve survival. Clofarabine improves survival in intermediate-risk AML categories ELN-1 and the AML genotype without NPM1 and without FLT3-ITD gene mutations.
Airway inflammation in COPD after long-term withdrawal of inhaled corticosteroids
Authors: Kunz Lisette I.Z. , ten Hacken Nick H.T. , Lapperre Thérèse S. , Timens Wim , Kerstjens Huib A.M. , van Schadewijk Annemarie , Vonk Judith M. , Sont Jacob K. , Snoeck-Stroband Jiska B. , Postma Dirkje S. , Sterk Peter J. , Hiemstra Pieter S.
Published: January 2017

Long-term treatment with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) might attenuate lung function decline and decrease airway inflammation in a subset of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and discontinuing ICS treatment could result in further lung function decline. We hypothesised that airway inflammation increases after ICS withdrawal following long-term ICS treatment in COPD.

In the GLUCOLD-1 study (GL1), 114 patients with moderate-severe COPD were randomised to 6-month or 30-month treatment with fluticasone propionate (500 µg twice daily), 30-month treatment with fluticasone/salmeterol (500/50 µg twice daily) or placebo. During the 5-year follow-up study (GL2), patients were followed prospectively while being treated by their physician. Bronchial biopsies and induced sputum were collected at baseline, at 30 months (end of GL1) and at 7.5 years (end of GL2) to assess inflammatory cell counts. Data were analysed using linear mixed-effects models.

In patients using ICS during GL1 and using ICS 0–50% of the time during GL2 (n=61/85), there were significant increases in GL2 bronchial CD3+(fold change per year calculated as GL2 minus GL1 2.68, 95% CI 1.87–3.84), CD4+(1.91, 95% CI 1.33–2.75) and CD8+cells (1.71, 95% CI 1.15–2.53), and mast cells (1.91, 95% CI 1.36–2.68). The sputum total cell counts increased significantly in GL2 (1.90, 95% CI 1.42–2.54), as did counts of macrophages (2.10, 95% CI 1.55–2.86), neutrophils (1.92, 95% CI 1.39–2.65) and lymphocytes (2.01, 95% CI 1.46–2.78).

ICS discontinuation increases airway inflammation in patients with moderate-severe COPD, suggesting that the anti-inflammatory effects of ICS in COPD are not maintained after ICS discontinuation.
Group 5 drugs for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis: individual patient data meta-analysis
Authors: Fox Greg J. , Benedetti Andrea , Cox Helen , Koh Won-Jung , Viiklepp Piret , Ahuja Shama , Pasvol Geoffrey , Menzies Dick
Published: January 2017

The role of so-called “group 5” second-line drugs as a part of antibiotic therapy for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is widely debated. We performed an individual patient data meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of several group 5 drugs including amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, thioacetazone, the macrolide antibiotics, linezolid, clofazimine and terizidone for treatment of patients with MDR-TB.

Detailed individual patient data were obtained from 31 published cohort studies of MDR-TB therapy. Pooled treatment outcomes for each group 5 drug were calculated using a random effects meta-analysis. Primary analyses compared treatment success to a combined outcome of failure, relapse or death.

Among 9282 included patients, 2191 received at least one group 5 drug. We found no improvement in treatment success among patients taking clofazimine, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid or macrolide antibiotics, despite applying a number of statistical approaches to control confounding. Thioacetazone was associated with increased treatment success (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.1–6.1) when matched controls were selected from studies in which the group 5 drugs were not used at all, although this result was heavily influenced by a single study.

The development of more effective antibiotics to treat drug-resistant TB remains an urgent priority.
Executive Summary: 2017 ERS/ATS standards for single-breath carbon monoxide uptake in the lung
Authors: Graham Brian L. , Brusasco Vito , Burgos Felip , Cooper Brendan G. , Jensen Robert , Kendrick Adrian , MacIntyre Neil R. , Thompson Bruce R. , Wanger Jack
Published: January 2017

This document summarises an update to the European Respiratory Society (ERS)/American Thoracic Society (ATS) technical standards for single-breath carbon monoxide uptake in the lung that was last updated in 2005. The full standards are also available online ashttps://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.00016-2016. The major changes in these technical standards relate toDLCOmeasurement with systems using rapidly responding gas analysers for carbon monoxide and the tracer gas, which are now the most common type ofDLCOinstrumentation being manufactured. Technical improvements and the increased capability afforded by these new systems permit enhanced measurement ofDLCOand the opportunity to include other optional measures of lung function.
Reassessing biopsychosocial psychiatry
Authors: Davies Will , Roache Rebecca
Published: January 2017

Psychiatry uncomfortably spans biological and psychosocial perspectives on mental illness, an idea central to Engel's biopsychosocial paradigm. This paradigm was extremely ambitious, proposing new foundations for clinical practice as well as a non-reductive metaphysics for mental illness. Perhaps given this scope, the approach has failed to engender a clearly identifiable research programme. And yet the view remains influential. We reassess the relevance of the biopsychosocial paradigm for psychiatry, distinguishing a number of ways in which it could be (re)conceived.
Physical illness in those with mental illness: Psychiatric services need to change focus
Authors: Daly Oscar Eunan
Published: January 2017

Those with mental illness die prematurely. One reason may be that psychiatrists are overly concerned with risk, focusing too much on this aspect of practice and neglecting the physical health needs of our patients. We need to reconsider how we approach our patients and their needs.
Splitting in-patient and out-patient responsibility does not improve patient care
Authors: Burns Tom , Baggaley Martin
Published: January 2017

Over the past 15 years there has been a move away from consultants having responsibility for the care of patients both in the community and when in hospital towards a functional split in responsibility. In this article Tom Burns and Martin Baggaley debate the merits or otherwise of the split, identifying leadership, expertise and continuity of care as key issues; both recognise that this move is not evidence based.
A “Witch Hunt Against Poor Women”
Authors: Albaladejo Angelika
Published: January 2017

A "witch hunt against poor women": Across the Americas, abortion laws are harming health and securityRestrictive reproductive policies in El Salvador, Colombia, the U.S., and elsewhere are pushing women toward unsafe procedures. Journalist Angelika Albaladejo argues that countries need to ensure that reproductive care is recognized as a human right. Current legislation only exacerbates the inequality, shame, and discrimination that women face across the Americas.
A Seat at the Table
Authors: Nyabola Nanjala
Published: January 2017

For women across the world, electoral politics can be a hostile and violent place. Writer Nanjala Nyabola investigates the parliamentary quota systems in East Africa, demonstrating how well they can work when supported with institutional will and how resoundingly they can fail when the patriarchy conspires to undo them.
“We Want to Stay Alive”
Authors: Driver Alice
Published: January 2017

Photojournalist and author Alice Driver argues that there's a lack of data and political will in Juárez, Mexico to properly track feminicide, the killing of women based on misogynist ideas. In her interviews and photographs, she documents how activists and mothers are trying to hold the state accountable for the ongoing violence against women and girls.
Racist in the Machine
Authors: Garcia Megan
Published: January 2017

Companies and governments need to pay attention to the unconscious and institutional biases that seep into their algorithms, argues cybersecurity expert Megan Garcia. Distorted data can skew results in web searches, home loan decisions, or photo recognition software. But the combination of increased attention to the inputs, greater clarity about the properties of the code itself, and the use of crowd-level monitoring could contribute to a more equitable online world. Without careful consideration, Garcia writes, our technology will be just as racist, sexist, and xenophobic as we are.
Partnering Up
Authors: Omar Manal
Published: January 2017

Manal Omar, author and a vice president at the U.S. Institute for Peace, argues that to successfully counter violent extremism (CVE), practitioners need to address concerns that CVE strategies are designed only to serve Western interests. Thus, CVE programming should commit to an inclusive agenda, acknowledge an array of factors that drive individuals toward extremism, highlight the positive role faith can play in preventing violence, and establish partnerships with women and youths.
Germany’s Second-Class Refugees
Authors: Vo Lam Thuy
Published: January 2017

Afghanistan is an increasingly dangerous war zone, but, according to journalist Lam Thuy Vo, Germany hasn't exactly laid out the welcome mat for Afghan refugees. While Germany approved 96 percent of asylum applications for Syrians in 2015, Afghan asylum-seekers have less than a 50-50 shot of securing permission to stay in the country.
Dad and Daddy Assemblage
Authors: Petersen Michael Nebeling , Kroløkke Charlotte , Myong Lene
Published: January 2017

Transnational surrogacy and the reproductive practices it entails raise interesting questions about genetic relatedness, kinship formation, and the stratification of reproductive labor and rights. This article discusses two high-profile Norwegian cases involving the Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Øystein Mæland, who served as chief of the Norwegian police from 2011 to 2012. While surrogacy is illegal in Norway, the article demonstrates how newspaper debates on both cases discursively decentered the illegality of surrogacy practices and instead developed notions of “good” and “bad” practices, positioning surrogacy in California as ethically regulated, while surrogacy in India was framed as fraught with ethical issues and exploitative. The article concludes that the two cases point to how specific formations of gay surrogacy work to simultaneously produce legitimate citizens out of commissioning parents and children, as well as a superior and exceptional nation-state.
Beijing Meets Hawai‘i
Authors: Tan Jia
Published: January 2017

Although scholars who work on Asia and those who work on indigenous studies have both critiqued the epistemic structure of queer studies for particularizing the non-West and thus supporting the domination of the West, they are hardly in dialogue. This article offers a rethinking of queer theory and practice useful to both area studies and indigenous studies by exploring the discussion generated from the screening of Kumu Hina, a documentary about a Hawaiian Māhū in the Beijing Queer Film Festival and a brief history of ku'er (queer) media culture and discourse in China. Thinking beyond the binaries of West/East and white/indigeneity, this article calls for a kind of transversal queer alliance that does not equate “cultural specificity” with cultural authenticity but critically uses it as an entry point to reveal the structural hierarchy between the local and the global, the particular and the universal.
Probing the Limits of Microhistory
Authors: Szijártó István M.
Published: January 2017

This epilogue to the special issue of JMEMS, “Microhistory and the Historical Imagination: New Frontiers,” comments on the essays, which trace the frontiers of microhistory. While they embrace the essence of microhistorical practice in their commitment to microanalysis, agency, and the power of the small to clarify large issues, they also exhibit new possibilities for writing gender history, literary history, and global history.
A new HECT ubiquitin ligase regulating chemotaxis and development in Dictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Pergolizzi Barbara , Bracco Enrico , Bozzaro Salvatore
Published: January 2017

Cyclic AMP (cAMP) binding to G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) orchestrates chemotaxis and development in Dictyostelium. By activating the RasC–TORC2–PKB (PKB is also known as AKT in mammals) module, cAMP regulates cell polarization during chemotaxis. TORC2 also mediates GPCR-dependent stimulation of adenylyl cyclase A (ACA), enhancing cAMP relay and developmental gene expression. Thus, mutants defective in the TORC2 Pia subunit (also known as Rictor in mammals) are impaired in chemotaxis and development. Near-saturation mutagenesis of a Pia mutant by random gene disruption led to selection of two suppressor mutants in which spontaneous chemotaxis and development were restored. PKB phosphorylation and chemotactic cell polarization were rescued, whereas Pia-dependent ACA stimulation was not restored but bypassed, leading to cAMP-dependent developmental gene expression. Knocking out the gene encoding the adenylylcyclase B (ACB) in the parental strain showed ACB to be essential for this process. The gene tagged in the suppressor mutants encodes a newly unidentified HECT ubiquitin ligase that is homologous to mammalian HERC1, but harbours a pleckstrin homology domain. Expression of the isolated wild-type HECT domain, but not a mutant HECT C5185S form, from this protein was sufficient to reconstitute the parental phenotype. The new ubiquitin ligase appears to regulate cell sensitivity to cAMP signalling and TORC2-dependent PKB phosphorylation.
Defective signaling, osteoblastogenesis and bone remodeling in a mouse model of connexin 43 C-terminal truncation
Authors: Moorer Megan C. , Hebert Carla , Tomlinson Ryan E. , Iyer Shama R. , Chason Max , Stains Joseph P.
Published: January 2017

In skeletal tissue, loss or mutation of the gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43, also known as GJA1) in cells of the osteoblast lineage leads to a profound cortical bone phenotype and defective tissue remodeling. There is mounting evidence in bone cells that the C-terminus (CT) of Cx43 is a docking platform for signaling effectors and is required for efficient downstream signaling. Here, we examined this function, using a mouse model of Cx43 CT-truncation (Gja1 K258Stop). Relative to Gja1+/− controls, male Gja1−/K258Stop mice have a cortical bone phenotype that is remarkably similar to those reported for deletion of the entire Cx43 gene in osteoblasts. Furthermore, we show that the Cx43 CT binds several signaling proteins that are required for optimal osteoblast function, including PKCδ, ERK1 and ERK2 (ERK1/2, also known as MAPK3 and MAPK1, respectively) and β-catenin. Deletion of the Cx43 CT domain affects these signaling cascades, impacting osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, and collagen processing and organization. These data imply that, at least in bone, Cx43 gap junctions not only exchange signals, but also recruit the appropriate effector molecules to the Cx43 CT in order to efficiently activate signaling cascades that affect cell function and bone acquisition.
A note on the real nonnegative inverse eigenvalue problem
Authors: Loewy Raphael
Published: January 2017

The Real Nonnegative Inverse Eigenvalue Problem (RNIEP) asks when is a list \[ \sigma=(\lambda_1, \lambda_2,\ldots,\lambda_n)\] consisting of real numbers the spectrum of an $n \times n$ nonnegative matrix $A$. In that case, $\sigma$ is said to be realizable and $A$ is a realizing matrix. In a recent paper dealing with RNIEP, P.~Paparella considered cases of realizable spectra where a realizing matrix can be taken to have a special form, more precisely such that the entries of each row are obtained by permuting the entries of the first row. A matrix of this form is called permutative. Paparella raised the question whether any realizable list $\sigma$ can be realized by a permutative matrix or a direct sum of permutative matrices. In this paper, it is shown that in general the answer is no.
Analysis of the Effect of Cell Phone Radiation on the Human Brain Using Electroencephalogram
Authors: Nisar Humaira , Awadh Hamara
Published: January 2017

This paper aims to investigate the effect of cell phone radiation on human brain. It is known that the cell phone emits electromagnetic (EM) radiation which could be harmful to the human brain. In this research the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal has been acquired from 24 healthy subjects using a 16 channel EEG headset under different experimental conditions. The signal is decomposed into different brain rhythms using Daubechies Discrete Wavelet Transform up to 5th-level of the decomposition. Quantitative analysis has been carried out using two statistical parameters (Energy, Entropy) and Absolute Power. Special attention was focused on Temporal and Frontal lobes as these are near to the ear. Experimental results show higher values (for energy, entropy and absolute power) in the low-frequency bands (delta and theta) compared to the high frequency bands (alpha, beta and gamma) in both lobes. When the phone was placed 5cm away from the head there was less brain activation compared to when the cell phone was placed next to the ear/head on both sides. It was found that there was more effect on the right side compared to the left side from the cell phone’s radio waves.
Predictors of mortality following conservatively managed fractures of the odontoid in elderly patients
Authors: Bajada S. , Ved A. , Dudhniwala A. G. , Ahuja S.
Published: January 2017

Aims

Rates of mortality as high as 25% to 30% have been described following fractures of the odontoid in the elderly population. The aim of this study was to examine whether easily identifiable variables present on admission are associated with mortality.

Patients and Methods

A consecutive series of 83 elderly patients with a fracture of the odontoid following a low-impact injury was identified retrospectively. Data that were collected included demographics, past medical history and the results of blood tests on admission. Radiological investigations were used to assess the Anderson and D’Alonzo classification and displacement of the fracture. The mean age was 82.9 years (65 to 101). Most patients (66; 79.5%) had a type 2 fracture. An associated neurological deficit was present in 11 (13.3%). All were treated conservatively; 80 (96.4%) with a hard collar and three (3.6%) with halo vest immobilisation.

Results

The rate of mortality was 16% (13 patients) at 30 days and 24% (20 patients) at one year after injury. A low serum level of haemoglobin and the presence of a neurological deficit on admission were independent predicators of mortality at 30 days on binary logistic regression analysis. A, low level of haemoglobin, admission from an institution, a neurological deficit and type 3 fractures were independent predictors of mortality at one year.

Conclusion

We suggest that these easily identifiable predictors present on admission can be used to identify patients at high risk and guide management by a multidisciplinary team. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:116–21.
Minimally invasive periacetabular osteotomy using a modified Smith-Petersen approach
Authors: Khan O. H. , Malviya A. , Subramanian P. , Agolley D. , Witt J. D.
Published: January 2017

Aims

Periacetabular osteotomy is an effective way of treating symptomatic hip dysplasia. We describe a new minimally invasive technique using a modification of the Smith-Peterson approach. We performed a prospective, longitudinal cohort study to assess for any compromise in acetabular correction when using this approach, and to see if the procedure would have a higher complication rate than that quoted in the literature for other approaches. We also assessed for any improvement in functional outcome.

Patients and Methods

From 168 consecutive patients (189 hips) who underwent acetabular correction between March 2010 and March 2013 we excluded those who had undergone previous pelvic surgery for DDH and those being treated for acetabular retroversion. The remaining 151 patients (15 men, 136 women) (166 hips) had a mean age of 32 years (15 to 56) and the mean duration of follow-up was 2.8 years (1.2 to 4.5). In all 90% of cases were Tönnis grade 0 or 1. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Non Arthritic Hip Score (NAHS), University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and Tegner activity scores.

Results

The mean pre-operative lateral centre-edge angle was 14.2° (-5° to 30°) and the mean acetabular index was 18.4° (4° to 40°). Post-operatively these were 31° (18° to 46°) and 3° (-7° to 29°), respectively, a significant improvement in both (p < 0.001). Allogenic blood transfusion was required in two patients (1.2%). There were no major nerve or vascular complications, and no wound infections. At the time of last follow-up, we noted a significant improvement in functional outcome scores: UCLA improved by 2.31 points, Tegner improved by 1.08 points, and the NAHS improved by 25.4 points (p < 0.001 for each). Hypermobility and longer duration of surgery were significant negative predictors for a good post-operative UCLA score, while residual retroversion was a positive predictor of post-operative UCLA score.

Conclusion

We have found this approach to be safe and effective, facilitating early recovery from surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:22–8.
Functional outcomes of conservatively managed acute ruptures of the Achilles tendon
Authors: Lawrence J. E. , Nasr P. , Fountain D. M. , Berman L. , Robinson A. H. N.
Published: January 2017

Aims

This prospective cohort study aims to determine if the size of the tendon gap following acute rupture of the Achilles tendon shows an association with the functional outcome following non-operative treatment.

Patients and Methods

All patients presenting within two weeks of an acute unilateral rupture of the Achilles tendon between July 2012 and July 2015 were considered for the study. In total, 38 patients (nine female, 29 male, mean age 52 years; 29 to 78) completed the study. Dynamic ultrasound examination was performed to confirm the diagnosis and measure the gap between ruptured tendon ends. Outcome was assessed using dynamometric testing of plantarflexion and the Achilles tendon Total Rupture score (ATRS) six months after the completion of a rehabilitation programme.

Results

Patients with a gap ≥ 10 mm with the ankle in the neutral position had significantly greater peak torque deficit than those with gaps < 10 mm (mean 23.3%; 7% to 52% vs 14.3%; 0% to 47%, p = 0.023). However, there was no difference in ATRS between the two groups (mean score 87.2; 74 to 100 vs 87.4; 68 to 97, p = 0.467). There was no significant correlation between gap size and torque deficit (τ = 0.103), suggesting a non-linear relationship. There was also no significant correlation between ATRS and peak torque deficit (τ = -0.305).

Conclusion

This is the first study to identify an association between tendon gap and functional outcome in acute rupture of the Achilles tendon. We have identified 10 mm as a gap size at which deficits in plantarflexion strength become significantly greater, however, the precise relationship between gap size and plantarflexion strength remains unclear. Large, multicentre studies will be needed to clarify this relationship and identify population subgroups in whom deficits in peak torque are reflected in patient-reported outcome measures. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:87–93.
Insight into the interaction between Î±-lapachone and bovine serum albumin employing a spectroscopic and computational approach
Authors: Chaves OtÃ¡vio Augusto , Schaeffer Edgar , Sant'Anna Carlos MaurÃ­cio R. , Netto-Ferreira JosÃ© Carlos , Cesarin-Sobrinho Dari , Ferreira AurÃ©lio Baird Buarque
Published: January 2017

Serum albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma; among its functions is the transport of a high variety of drugs in the body. Quinones show several biological and pharmacological activities, such as anti-malarial, antitumor, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic. We report fluorescence and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopic studies to try to understand the interaction process between Î±-lapachone (Î±-LAP) and bovine serum albumin (BSA). Studies using computational methods, such as molecular docking, were performed to identify the main cavity in which this interaction occurs as well as the type of intermolecular interactions between the amino acid residues from albumin and the ligand. The BSA fluorescence quenching by added Î±-LAP is a static process, indicating an initial association BSA: Î±-LAP. The Ka and Kb values for the interaction BSA: Î±-LAP are in the range 105-104 Lâˆ™mol-1, indicating a strong binding between these two species. CD data show that there is no significant perturbation on the secondary structure of the protein with binding. The negative Î”Go values are consistent with spontaneous binding occurring endothermically (Î”Ho = 127 kJâˆ™mol-1), and possibly driven by hydrophobic factors (Î”So = 0.526 kJâˆ™mol-1âˆ™s-1). The number of binding sites (n) indicates the existence of just one main binding site in BSA for Î±-LAP, with molecular docking results showing that it binds preferentially to the albumin in the domain IIA, where the Trp-212 residue is located. The ligand interacts via hydrogen bond with Arg-259 and Tyr-149 residues and via T-stacking with the fluorophore Trp-212 residue.
Radioactive wastes Conditioning. Optimization of operating parameters by the experience plan method
Authors: El hilal Bouchra , El Harfi Ahmed
Published: January 2017

The conditioning of exhausted Resins Exchanging Ions (REI) (radioactive wastes generated by nuclear operations) was optimized using a full factorial experiments plan 24. Sixteen experiments with a suitable choice of four interpretable variables led to a mathematical model in the form of a first degree polynomial. After analysing the effects, this model showed that the most influential factor on the response (compression strength) is the water/cement ratio (W/C) with a positive effect of (+2.17), the second factor in order is the mixing time with a positive effect of (+1.54). The interaction between the (W/C) and the number of vibration and interaction between the (W/C) and the mixing time also have effects on the response.
Detection of mercury by a new sensor based CPE modified with extract of takaout plant
Authors: Ait sidi mou Abdelaziz , Ouarzane Aicha , El Rhazi Mama
Published: January 2017

A new carbon paste electrode (CPE) modified with extractÂ takaoutÂ was developed for the determination of mercury using square wave voltammetry (SWV).Â  Compared with carbon paste electrode, the anodic peak current had a significant increase at the modified electrode. Under the optimized conditions (amount of modifier 3%, 0.1 M acetate buffer pH 2, accumulation potential -0.6 V, accumulation time 300 s, resting time 10 s, frequency 25 Hz, pulse amplitude 0.050 V, step height 2 mV), a linear response was obtained in the concentration range from 3.1 to 11 ÂµM Hg(II) and the detection limit was 0.42 ÂµM. The results indicate that this electrode is sensitive and effective for determination of Hg2+Â in the tap water sample.
Glucosinolate profiles by HPLC-DAD, phenolic compositions and antioxidant activity of Eruca vesicaria longirostris: Impact of plant part and origin
Authors: Bouacida Saoussen , Ben Haj koubaier Hayet , Snoussi Ahmed , Fauconnier Marie Laure , Bouzouita Nabiha
Published: January 2017

The glucosinolate profiles, phenol and flavonoid contents and the antioxidant activity of Eruca vesicaria longirostris were studied for different organs and origins. Eleven desulpho-glucosinolates (DS-GLSs) were isolated and quantified by lipid chromatography- DAD. Similarity between profiles was obtained. Total DS-GLS content, expressed as sinigrin equivalents (SE) revealed a certain variabilily ranging between (76.07-45.61), (27.01-13.53), (4.52 -18.01), (9.39-3.37) and (1.16-13.99) Âµmol /g DW for seeds, flowers, leaves, roots and stems, respectively. Results showed that seeds are rich in phenolics as they contain highest amounts of phenolics ranging from 27.6Â±0.5 to 33.47Â±0.5 mg GAE/g extract as compared to all other parts. Leaves and flowers had a significantly higher total phenolic content than stems and roots in all samples (p < 0.05). According to statistical analysis, the investigated seed extracts with values between (16.20Â±0.10-18.50Â±0.10 mg QE/g) exhibited the highest total flavonoids content, followed by leaves (13.00Â±0.40-15.80Â±0.30mg QE/g), flowers (10.40Â±0.40-12.90Â±0.90 mg QE/g) and stems (7.80Â±0.20- 9.80Â±0.70 mg QE/g). Antioxidant activity tested by DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays, was higher for seeds, leaves and flowers than the other studied organs. These organs were characterized by a significantly high content in glucoerucin, nasturtin and epiprogroitrin, respectively.
Chemical composition, antioxidant potential and phenolic profile of oil mill waste water from Tunisian olive varieties (Chetoui and Chemlali)
Authors: Khemakhem Sellami Maissa , Khemakhem Ibtihel , Mkadmini Khaoula , Bouzouita Nabiha
Published: January 2017

Oil mill waste water (OMWW) is of great interest due to the presence of valuable resources such as biophenols that can be recovered as food additives and pharmaceuticals. The aim of this study is to investigate the variation of physicochemical composition of OMWW from Chetoui and Chemlali varieties, to evaluate phenolic composition, antioxidant potential and phenolic profile of OMWW extracts under native and acidified conditions. Liquid-liquid extraction was performed for the extraction of polyphenols. Antioxidant activity was investigated by DPPHâ€¢, ABTSâ€¢+ and FRAP tests. Phenolic compounds content was determined by HPLC-DAD method. OMWW from Chetoui variety has been shown to contain an important amount of K, Ca and Na whereas Chemlali cultivar was rich in Mg. Phenolic extract from Chetoui fruit (COCt) has beenÂ  shown to contain the highest amount of polyphenols (2.48 Â± 0.21 g L-1) as well as an appreciable content of flavonoids (9.39 Â± 0.32 g L-1). However, phenolic extract from Chemlali fruit (COCm) has been shown to have the highest content of proanthocyanidins (0.39 Â± 0.00 g L-1). Acidification treatment improved polyphenol recovery of extracts from both varieties. COCt was more active using DPPH (EC50 of 7.5 mg L-1) and FRAP tests. However, COCt and COCm exhibited the same activity using ABTS test. In general, acidification treatment decreased antioxidant activity of extracts. COCt has been shown to contain higher amount of hydroxytyrosol when compared to COCm (157.16 Â± 0.820 and 23.440 Â± 0.440 mg g-1 D.W. of extract, respectively) as revealed by HPLC-DAD analysis.Â
Direct use of mineral fertilizers MAP, DAP, and TSP as heterogeneous catalysts in organic reactions
Authors: Bahammou Imane , Esaady Ayoub , Boukhris Said , Ghailane Rachida , Habbadi Nouzha , Hassikou Amina , Souizi Abdelaziz
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we reported the first use of phosphate fertilizers (MAP, DAP, and TSP) as heterogeneous catalysts for organic reactions.Â  Their catalytic activities were investigated in the first time in Knoevenagel condensation of various aromatic aldehydes with malononitrile at room temperature.Â  These minerals phosphate showed high catalytic activities and ability to be recovering and reusing without a significant loss in their catalytic activities.Â  In order to reach the optimal reaction conditions for Knoevenagel condensation, we carried out a kinetic study of the effect of reaction time, the effect of solvent, the amount of catalysts and the variation of the range of the particles size the more active.Â  The best conditions were obtained by the use of these fertilizers (MAP, DAP, and TSP) in their commercial status, simply crashed in powder, without any purification, using ethanol as solvent.Â  These phosphate fertilizers prove to be very promising and effective heterogeneous catalysts for the condensation of Knoevenagel.
Synthesis, Characterization, Aggregation behaviors, Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory activities of Unmetalled and metallophthalocyanines bearing 2(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)ethanol and 4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde groups
Authors: Sulaiman Abduallah
Published: January 2017

Novel metallophthalocyanines (M: Co, Cu, Ni) containing 2(2-methoxyphenyl)ethanol and 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde groupsÂ  were synthesized and characterized.The structures were confirmed by IR, UV/vis, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, mass spectroscopy Â and elemental analysis. The aggregation behavior of these compounds was investigated in DMSO.Â  In addition; the compounds 4-9 were investigated for anti-oxidant activities by super oxide radical; DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl); and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays; in which most of themÂ  displayed significant antioxidant activities. Furthermore; compounds 4-9Â Â  were evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity by indirect hemolytic and lipoxygenase inhibition assays and revealed good activity.
DIVERSITY OF PLANTS USED FOR PLAITED CRAFTS BY THE DAYAK IBAN-DÉSA IN KABUPATEN SINTANG, KALIMANTAN BARAT, INDONESIA
Authors: DEWI ASIH PERWITA , ARIYANTI NUNIK SRI , WALUJO EKO BAROTO
Published: January 2017

DEWI, A. P., ARIYANTI N. S. & WALUJO, E. B. 2016. Diversity of plants used for plaited crafts by the Dayak Iban-Désa in Kabupaten Sintang, Kalimantan Barat. Reinwardtia 15(2): 67 – 79. — Many plants are used for making plaited crafts such as basketry and woven mats by the Dayak Iban-Désa, a sub-tribe of the Dayak in Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia. The Dayak Iban-Désa gather the craft materials mostly from the plants in the forest. However, the habitats of these plants are being threatened by deforestation. The diversity of plants used for crafts is here documented. This study recorded the scientific names of plant species used for the craft plaiting, and observed abundance of plants used for craft. Information about the plants used were gathered using non-structural interview and focus group discussion (FGD) with the informants and participants. The abundance of plaited plants was observed in 46 plots of 10 × 10 m2 plots by participative ecological method. Nineteen plants species were used as plaited material, belonging to four families: Arecaceae, Poaceae, Pandanaceae and Zingiberaceae. Two species of rattan (Calamus sp. and Plectocomiopsis wrayi Becc.) have the highest Index Cultural Significance (ICS) value. Those species were considered as the most valuable plant materials because of the quality of fiber, intensity on harvesting, and the resulting quality of plaited craft products. However, the demand for high quality products is not always supported by the availability of plant materials in the forest. Therefore, the cultural significance of plants (the ICS values) and their availability should be considered when determining the conservation strategy for each of these species.
A NEW SPECIES OF MURRAYA FROM CYCLOPS MOUNTAIN, PAPUA, INDONESIA
Authors: ASTUTI INGGIT PUJI , RUGAYAH RUGAYAH
Published: January 2017

ASTUTI, I. P. & RUGAYAH. 2016. A new species of Murraya from Cyclops Mountain, Papua, Indonesia. Reinwardtia 15(2): 111 –114. — A living collection of Bogor Botanic Gardens, planted in plot XXIV.A.192-192a and originated from Kemiri Said Nature Reserve, Cyclops Mountain in Papua collected by Lugrayasa (LG 1352), is described and illustrated as a new species, namely Murraya cyclopensis Astuti & Rugayah. The species is closely related to Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack, in vegetative and flower structures, but differ in the presence of indumentum on twig, rachis and petiole, smaller size of flowers, red globose fruits, and orbicular seeds covered by densely short hairs and red aril.
CONSTITUTIVE MODEL OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE SUBJECTED TO HIGH TEMPERATURES
Authors: Blesak Lukas , Goremikins Vadims , Wald Frantisek , Sajdlova Tereza
Published: January 2017

Research on structural load-bearing systems exposed to elevated temperatures is an active topic in civil engineering. Carrying out a full-size experiment of a specimen exposed to fire is a challenging task considering not only the preparation labour but also the necessary costs. Therefore, such experiments are simulated using various software and computational models in order to predict the structural behaviour as exactly as possible. In this paper such a procedure, focusing on software simulation, is described in detail. The proposed constitutive model is based on the stress-strain curve and allows predicting SFRC material behaviour in bending at ambient and elevated temperature. SFRC material is represented by the initial linear behaviour, an instantaneous drop of stress after the initial crack occurs and its consequent specific ductility, which influences the overall modelled specimen behaviour under subjected loading. The model is calibrated with ATENA FEM software using experimental results.
EVALUATION OF THE SURFACE SETTLEMENT ABOVE THE PRAGUE METRO LINE A EXTENSION CONSTRUCTED BY TWO SHIELDS
Authors: Hilar Matous , Tuan Nhu The
Published: January 2017

The new section of the Prague metro V.A is located in the west part of Prague, between stations Dejvická and Motol Hospital. The new metro section is 6.2km long and has four new stations. Majority of the two running tunnels that are 6.2km long were excavated by two EPB (Earth Pressure Balance) shields (2 × 4.8 km), it was the first use of modern tunnelling machines in the Czech Republic. Surface settlement above the running tunnels caused by the EPB shields was regularly monitored. The following paper is focused on an evaluation of the mentioned surface settlement using a volume loss. Consequently, numerical modelling of various cross-sections was executed. Modelling was realised by a finite element method in 2D, using the software Plaxis. Two different approaches were applied for modelling of the 3D effect in 2D. Important parameters Mstage and Cref were derived for the selected cross-sections by back analyses (comparison of the numerical modelling results with the results of monitoring). The results of realised numerical modelling and the volume loss evaluation can be used for a preparation and realisation of similar tunnels in similar geology (for example, construction of the Prague metro line D, which will probably also be excavated by the EPB shields).
Stability of Grid-Connected Inverter with LCL Filter
Authors: Pástor Marek , Dudrik Jaroslav
Published: January 2017

The paper analyses oscillations in a single-phase grid connected inverter with the LCL output filter. Passive and active damping techniques are designed and compared by simulations. The inverter is controlled by a proportional resonant controller.
The effects of ultraviolet and visible light on common furs: Color changes, photooxidation and the use of Tinuvin 292 as a photoprotectant
Authors: Rogge Corina E. , Shullman Anya
Published: January 2017

In order to determine the light sensitivities of commonly encountered furs, 17 furs from 12 species were exposed to 1.97 Mlx hours of light from a xenon arc lamp, filtered either to simulate window-filtered daylight or to remove all ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Comparison with coexposed Blue Wools showed that most samples were relatively lightfast (Blue Wool 5 or better), with darker specimens being more lightfast. Examination of the Commission internationale de l'éclairage (CIE) L*a*b* values revealed fading but also other changes: some furs darkened, and other experienced changes in b* values. Removal of UV radiation prevented darkening and usually decreased the magnitude of ΔE76 but did not prevent color changes, and one species exhibited greater change under visible light. Changes in color were accompanied by photooxidation of the keratin of all species as assessed by attenuated total reflectance infrared spectroscopy; the extent of photooxidation was decreased by filtering out UV radiation. Pre-exposure treatment with a spray application of a 1% solution of Tinuvin 292, a hindered amine light stabilizer, offered some protection against both UV and visible light-induced changes. Tinuvin 292 pre-exposure also helped prevent keratin photooxidation and light-induced mechanical damage and thus may be an appropriate preventative treatment when light exposure is unavoidable.
Cleaning protocol for mercuric chloride–contaminated herbarium cabinets at the Smithsonian Museum Support Center
Authors: Fallon Doug , Peters Melinda , Hunt Michael , Koehler Kirsten
Published: January 2017

Mercuric chloride has been used to control insect and fungal infestations in natural history collections for the past two centuries. Due to health concerns, its use was discontinued in the mid-1980s, but specimens treated with mercuric chloride are commonly found in modern collections and present a hazard to collection staff and researchers. Cabinets used to store mercuric chloride–treated specimens also become contaminated with the substance and represent a source of exposure even after specimens are removed. A team at the US National Herbarium, in coordination with the Smithsonian’s Office of Safety, Health and Environmental Management, developed a protocol to clean herbarium cabinets that were contaminated with mercuric chloride. Cabinets were cleaned with 70% ethanol and laboratory wipes, and effectiveness was measured using a portable mercury vapor analyzer and surface wipe sampling. Cleaning with ethanol was found to be more effective than just removing treated specimens, but the differences in reduction of airborne and surface mercury concentrations were not statistically significant. This study provides important insight and guidance for museums seeking to eliminate legacy mercuric chloride contamination from their herbarium cabinets.
Foliage accumulations of Osmunda lignitum (osmundaceae) in the Oligocene of northern Italy and western Germany
Authors: Kvaček Zlatko , Martinetto Edoardo
Published: January 2017

Accumulations of Osmunda (Plenasium) lignitum (Giebel) Stur fern foliage have been recently recovered in the Oligocene deposits of northern Italy at Cassinelle and western Germany at Niederpleis-1 (Sankt Augustin; Winterscheid 2006). They morphologically match other European records distributed from the Eocene to the Oligocene (– early Miocene). Material from both sites represents sterile pinnae compressions with preserved leaf anatomy. The data obtained on leaf cuticles correspond to most of the previous findings from Germany (Geiseltal, Seifhennersdorf, Haselbach) but cast doubts on some others based on dispersed cuticles (e.g. Zülpich). Comparison with living species of Osmunda (Plenasium) from east and south-east Asia revealed only minor differences in the epidermal structure and stress the close relationship with Osmunda banksiifolia (C. Presl) Kuhn distributed along valley streams from China, Japan to Indonesia, New Guinea and Philippines.
Hippopotamodon erymanthius (Suidae, Mammalia) from Mahmutgazi, Denizli-Çal Basin, Turkey
Authors: Pickford Martin
Published: January 2017

The Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde in Karlsruhe houses an interesting collection of Turolian mammals from Mahmutgazi, Turkey, among which is a comprehensive sample of the large suid, Hippopotamodon erymanthius. The fossils plot out within the range of metric variation of H. erymanthius from Pikermi and Samos, Greece, but lie at the lower end of the range. Like the suids from these sites, the Mahmutgazi specimens lack the first premolar. Overall, the Mahmutgazi sample is metrically and morphologically close to the material from Akkaşdağı, Turkey. The upper and lower third molars and fourth premolars are, on average, smaller than those of Hippopotamodon major from Luberon, France (MN 13). Two undescribed fossils of H. erymanthius from Pikermi are housed at the SMNK, and are included in this paper in order to fill out the data base for the species at this locality. The chronological position, palaeoecology and sexual dimorphism of the Mahmutgazi suids are discussed.
Fossil fauna and flora of a re-discovered locality in the Late Carboniferous Ploužnice Horizon of the Krkonoše Piedmont Basin, Bohemian Massif
Authors: Štamberg Stanislav , Schneider Jörg W. , Werneburg Ralf
Published: January 2017

Here we present preliminary information on the fossil content of a rediscovered fossiliferous locality in the Late Carboniferous (Stephanian; Kasimovian/Gzhelian) Ploužnice Horizon, Semily Formation, in the Krkonoše Piedmont Basin of the Bohemian Massif. Several meters thick reddish to grey tuffaceous siltstones of this lacustrine horizon contain centimetre thick bone-bed layers and sporadically distributed plant remains. Common are isolated fish remains of actinopterygians, chondrichthyans, and acanthodians as well as isolated insect wings, mainly from blattoids. The biostratigraphic age is determined by blattoid insects as Stephanian B/C (Kasimovian/Gzhelian).