bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Dirofilaria immitis in a brown bear (Ursus arctos) in Greece
Authors: Papadopoulos E. , Komnenou A. , Poutachides T. , Heikkinen P. , Oksanen A. , Karamanlidis A. A.
Published: August 2017

Dirofilaria immitis (canine heartworm) is a filarial nematode found in the pulmonary circulation and the heart of susceptible hosts. It represents an important zoonotic vector-borne disease of domestic dogs and several wildlife species. Herein we report for the first time, the finding of Dirofilaria immitis worms in a brown bear killed in a vehicle collision in Northern Greece. The worms were morphologically identified; molecular examination, based on the analysis of the mitochondrial genes 12S (433 bp) and CO1 (610 bp), verified the identification by demonstrating 100% similarity to D. immitis specimens deposited in GenBank. Brown bears in Greece occupy habitats that are shared with the potential wild and domestic hosts and the vectors of D. immitis and thus may be particularly susceptible to this parasite. This report contributes to the knowledge of dirofilariosis spread in Europe and on the epidemiological threats that may affect the survival of the endangered brown bear in Greece.
HDAC1 triggers the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells via upregulation of interleukin-8
Authors: Tang Zhaohui , Ding Sijuan , Huang Honglin , Luo Pengfei , Qing Bohua , Zhang Siyuan , Tang Ruoting
Published: August 2017

Targeted inhibition of histone deacetylase (HDAC) is one of the potent anticancer therapy approaches. Our data showed that mRNA and protein levels of HDAC1 in breast cancer cells were greater than that in normal fibroblast 3T3 cells and normal epithelial breast MCF10A cells. The mRNA levels of HDAC1 in 75% of breast cancer tissues (18/24) were greater than that in their corresponding adjacent normal tissues. Knockdown of HDAC1 by specific siRNAs can suppress the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells and inhibit the expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8), while not IL-6. While recombinant IL-8 (rIL-8) can attenuate the suppression effects of si-HDAC1 on the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells. HDAC1 can positively regulate the transcription and promoter activities of IL-8. While NF-κB and MAPK, two important signals responsible for the transcription of IL-8, did not mediate HDAC1 regulated IL-8 expression. The expression and nuclear translocation of Snail were increased in HDAC1 over expressed breast cancer cells. Targeted inhibition of Snail can attenuate HDAC1 over expression induced cell proliferation and migration. Collectively, our data showed that HDAC1 can trigger the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells via activation of Snail/IL-8 signals.
Metabolic syndrome in Iranian adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Dabbaghmanesh Mohammad H. , Naderi Tahereh , Akbarzadeh Marzieh , Tabatabaee Hamidreza
Published: August 2017

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MS) in adolescents is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Objective

The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of MS in 14–18-year-old girls.

Methods

This analytical case-control study was conducted on 3200 high school students with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS was confirmed by an endocrinologist after detection of clinical hyperandrogenism (acne, hirsutism and alopecia) and oligomenorrhea, rejection of hypothyroidism and hyperprolactinemia and performance of abdominal sonography. In the second stage, the prevalence of MS was compared between 70 girls with PCOS and 45 healthy girls using the ATPIII, Cooki and Ferranti scales. The study data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, body mass index (BMI) graph, the WC graph and standard blood pressure graph in adolescents. Then, the data were analyzed using the t-test and the χ2-test.

Results

Based on the Ferranti scale, the prevalence of MS was 10.4% and 0% in the case and control groups, respectively. The highest prevalence was related to hyperandrogenism and polycystic ovaries phenotype (11.6% vs. 0%, p = 0.05). Based on the Cooki and ATPIII scales, the prevalence of this disorder was 4.1% in the case group and 0.67% in the control group, with the highest rate being related to hyperandrogenism, oligomenorrhea and polycystic ovaries phenotype (7.5% vs. 0%, p = 0.28).

Conclusion

In comparison to the control group, the prevalence of MS in the patients with PCOS was 10-fold higher according to the Ferranti scale and nearly 3.5-fold higher based on the Cooki and ATPIII scales. Thus, long-term follow-up is suggested in these patients.
Impacts of Stone Mining and Crushing on Stream Characters and Vegetation Health of Dwarka River Basin of Jharkhand and West Bengal, Eastern India
Authors: Pal Swades , Mandal Indrajit
Published: August 2017

Dwarka River basin (3882.71 km2) of Eastern India in the Chotonagpur Plateau and Gangetic Plain is highly affected by stone mining and crushing generated dust. In the middle catchment of this basin, there are 239 stone mines and 982 stone crushing units. These produce approximately 258120 tons of dust every year and this dust enters into the river and coats the leaves of plants. On the one hand, this is aggrading in the stream bed, increasing sediment load, decreasing water quality, specifically increasing total dissolved solid, pH, water colour, and it also degrades the vegetation quality. Vegetation quality is also degraded as indicated by decreasing of NDVI values (maximum NDVI in 1990 was 0.70 and in 2016 it was 0.48). Considering all these issues, the present paper intends to identify dust vulnerable zones based on six major driving parameters and the impact of the dust on river morphology, water quality and vegetation quality in different vulnerable zones. Weighted linear combination method (in Arc Gis environment) is used for compositing the selected parameters and deriving vulnerable zones. Weight to the each parameter is assigned based on analytic hierarchy process, a semi quantitative method. According to the results, 579.64 km2 (14.93%) of the catchment area is very highly vulnerable: Here 581 rivers have a length of 713 km and these riversare prone to high dust deposition, increased sediment load and water quality deterioration.
Dating the Holocene Incision of the Danube in Southern Hungary
Authors: Tóth Orsolya , Sipos György , Kiss Tímea , Bartyik Tamás
Published: August 2017

The alluvial development of the Great Hungarian Plain has greatly been determined by the subsidence of different areas in the Pannonian Basin. The temporal variation of subsidence rates significantly contributed to the avulsion and shifting of main rivers. This was the case in terms of the Hungarian Lower Danube when occupying its present day N-S directional course. The considerable role of tectonic forcing is also supported by the presence of different floodplain levels. Although, several channel forms are identifiable on these the timing of floodplain development has been reconstructed up till now mostly by the means of geomorphological analysis, and hardly any numerical dates were available. The main aim of this study is to provide the first OSL dates for palaeo-channels located on the high floodplain surface of the Hungarian Lower Danube, and to determine the maximum age of low and high floodplain separation on the Kalocsa Plain. For the analysis two meanders were sampled close to the edge of the step slope between the two levels. According to the results, the development of the investigated palaeo-meanders could be rapid. The formation of the older meander was dated to the Late Atlantic, while the possible separation of the high and low floodplain surfaces could start in the beginning of the Subboreal Phase.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[(μ2-3-(1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-5-(pyridin-4-yl)-1,2,4-triazole-κ N:N′)-bis(benzoato-κO)zinc(II)], C24H18N6O4Zn
Authors: Yu-Fang Wang , Tai Jun-Hui
Published: August 2017

C24H18N6O4Zn, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 13.7579(8) Å, b = 8.5684(6) Å, c = 19.7973(10) Å, β = 96.500(6)°, V = 2318.8(2) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0521, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1297, T = 288 K.
The Risks of Operational Militarization: Increased Conflict Against Militarized Police
Authors: Carriere Kevin R. , Encinosa William
Published: August 2017

The current state of race relations in the United States have brought to light the issue of the militarization of local police, where officers are being provided with unused equipment from the government’s war chest through the 1033 Program. But, is this increase in militarization beneficial, or does it harm relations between citizens and police? Using data on purchases provided by the Defense Logistics Agency, this paper analyzes effects of military purchases on assaults on police officers. Fixed effects negative binomial regressions on state-month level data show that stockpiling of material militarization equipment (guns, armor, and clothing) exhibits a statistically significant decrease in assaults, with guns showing no significant relation on assaults. However, operational militarization purchases (surveillance, sonar, and radar) lead to an increase of assaults, suggesting that there may be unforeseen consequences of increased militarization due to a change of structure and information gathering.
Closed-loop Administration of General Anaesthesia: From Sensor to Medical Device
Authors: Jeanne Mathieu , Tavernier Benoît , Logier Régis , De Jonckheere Julien
Published: August 2017

Closed-loop administration devices for general anaesthesia have become a common subject of clinical research over the last decade and appear more and more acceptable in clinical practice. They encompass various therapeutic needs of the anesthetized patient, e. g. fluid administration, hypnotic and analgesic drug administration, myorelaxation. Multiple clinical trials involving closed-loop devices have underscored their safety, but data concerning their clinical benefit to the patient are still lacking. As the marketing of various devices increases, clinicians need to understand how comparisons between these devices can be made: the measure of performance error and wobble are technical but have also a clinical meaning, to which clinical outcomes can be added, such as drug consumption and maintenance of hemodynamic parameters (e. g. heart rate and blood pressure) within predefined ranges. Clinicians using closed-loop devices need especially to understand how various physiological signals lead to specific drug adaptations, which means that they switch from decision making to supervision of general anaesthesia.
Brain extracellular space, hyaluronan, and the prevention of epileptic seizures
Authors: Perkins Katherine L. , Arranz Amaia M. , Yamaguchi Yu , Hrabetova Sabina
Published: August 2017

Mutant mice deficient in hyaluronan (HA) have an epileptic phenotype. HA is one of the major constituents of the brain extracellular matrix. HA has a remarkable hydration capacity, and a lack of HA causes reduced extracellular space (ECS) volume in the brain. Reducing ECS volume can initiate or exacerbate epileptiform activity in many
Histone H4K20 tri‐methylation at late‐firing origins ensures timely heterochromatin replication
Authors: Brustel Julien , Kirstein Nina , Izard Fanny , Grimaud Charlotte , Prorok Paulina , Cayrou Christelle , Schotta Gunnar , Abdelsamie Alhassan F , Déjardin Jérôme , Méchali Marcel , Baldacci Giuseppe , Sardet Claude , Cadoret Jean‐Charles , Schepers Aloys , Julien Eric
Published: August 2017

Among other targets, the protein lysine methyltransferase PR‐Set7 induces histone H4 lysine 20 monomethylation (H4K20me1), which is the substrate for further methylation by the Suv4‐20h methyltransferase. Although these enzymes have been implicated in control of replication origins, the specific contribution of H4K20 methylation to DNA replication remains unclear. Here, we show that H4K20 mutation in mammalian cells, unlike in Drosophila, partially impairs S‐phase progression and protects from DNA re‐replication induced by stabilization of PR‐Set7. Using Epstein–Barr virus‐derived episomes, we further demonstrate that conversion of H4K20me1 to higher H4K20me2/3 states by Suv4‐20h is not sufficient to define an efficient origin per se, but rather serves as an enhancer for MCM2‐7 helicase loading and replication activation at defined origins. Consistent with this, we find that Suv4‐20h‐mediated H4K20 tri‐methylation (H4K20me3) is required to sustain the licensing and activity of a subset of ORCA/LRWD1‐associated origins, which ensure proper replication timing of late‐replicating heterochromatin domains. Altogether, these results reveal Suv4‐20h‐mediated H4K20 tri‐methylation as a critical determinant in the selection of active replication initiation sites in heterochromatin regions of mammalian genomes.
Improving the phenotype predictions of a yeast genome‐scale metabolic model by incorporating enzymatic constraints
Authors: Sánchez Benjamín J , Zhang Cheng , Nilsson Avlant , Lahtvee Petri‐Jaan , Kerkhoven Eduard J , Nielsen Jens
Published: August 2017

Genome‐scale metabolic models (GEMs) are widely used to calculate metabolic phenotypes. They rely on defining a set of constraints, the most common of which is that the production of metabolites and/or growth are limited by the carbon source uptake rate. However, enzyme abundances and kinetics, which act as limitations on metabolic fluxes, are not taken into account. Here, we present GECKO, a method that enhances a GEM to account for enzymes as part of reactions, thereby ensuring that each metabolic flux does not exceed its maximum capacity, equal to the product of the enzyme's abundance and turnover number. We applied GECKO to a Saccharomyces cerevisiae GEM and demonstrated that the new model could correctly describe phenotypes that the previous model could not, particularly under high enzymatic pressure conditions, such as yeast growing on different carbon sources in excess, coping with stress, or overexpressing a specific pathway. GECKO also allows to directly integrate quantitative proteomics data; by doing so, we significantly reduced flux variability of the model, in over 60% of metabolic reactions. Additionally, the model gives insight into the distribution of enzyme usage between and within metabolic pathways. The developed method and model are expected to increase the use of model‐based design in metabolic engineering.
Lack of NOD2 attenuates ovariectomy-induced bone loss via inhibition of osteoclasts
Authors: Ke Ke , Sul Ok-Joo , Chung Soo-Wol , Suh Jae-Hee , Choi Hye-Seon
Published: August 2017

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-2 (NOD2) is a pattern recognition receptor of the innate immune system. It interacts with serine–threonine kinases to induce activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), which is important for receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) signaling. We tested the idea that NOD2 modulates bone metabolism via an action on osteoclasts (OCs). The absence of NOD2 reduced ovariectomy-induced bone loss in mice, and lowered the area and the activity of OCs, by impairing RANKL signaling. It also reduced the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as of NF-κB-DNA binding upon RANKL exposure. NOD2 was found to physically interact with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1, and this led to increased production of ROS in OCs. Our data suggest that NOD2 contributes to bone loss in estrogen deficiency by elevating ROS levels in OCs.
Improvement of obesity-linked skeletal muscle insulin resistance by strength and endurance training
Authors: Di Meo Sergio , Iossa Susanna , Venditti Paola
Published: August 2017

Obesity-linked insulin resistance is mainly due to fatty acid overload in non-adipose tissues, particularly skeletal muscle and liver, where it results in high production of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial dysfunction. Accumulating evidence indicates that resistance and endurance training alone and in combination can counteract the harmful effects of obesity increasing insulin sensitivity, thus preventing diabetes. This review focuses the mechanisms underlying the exercise role in opposing skeletal muscle insulin resistance-linked metabolic dysfunction. It is apparent that exercise acts through two mechanisms: (1) it stimulates glucose transport by activating an insulin-independent pathway and (2) it protects against mitochondrial dysfunction-induced insulin resistance by increasing muscle antioxidant defenses and mitochondrial biogenesis. However, antioxidant supplementation combined with endurance training increases glucose transport in insulin-resistant skeletal muscle in an additive fashion only when antioxidants that are able to increase the expression of antioxidant enzymes and/or the activity of components of the insulin signaling pathway are used.
Three-dimensional analysis of seminiferous tubules and spermatogenic waves in mice
Authors: Nakata Hiroki , Sonomura Takahiro , Iseki Shoichi
Published: August 2017

The aim of the present study was to reconstruct seminiferous tubules and analyze spermatogenic waves in seminiferous epithelia in developing and adult mice using serial paraffin sections and high-performance three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction software. By labeling the basement membrane of seminiferous tubules with fluorescent immunohistochemistry or periodic acid-Schiff-hematoxylin staining, all seminiferous tubules were reconstructed in 9 testes from 9 different mice, 3 each at 0, 21 and 90 days (adult) postpartum. The 3D structure of seminiferous tubules, including the number and length of tubules as well as the number of connections with the rete testis, branching points and blind ends, was assessed accurately. Although tubules showed marked variations among individual mice, their overall structure was regular and retained from newborn to adult mice. Some seminiferous tubules contained inner portions running distant from the testis surface. In a representative testis at 21 days, the sites at which spermatids initially occurred were examined by labeling acrosomes and were found to be preferentially distributed in the upper and medial portions of the testis close to the rete testis. In a representative adult testis, 76 complete waves with an average length of 16.9 mm were found and their directions were analyzed. The methods used in the present study will be useful for investigating the structure and function of seminiferous tubules in mice and humans under normal and pathological conditions, such as infertility.
Research on the neuro-protective compounds in Terminalia chebula retz extracts in-vivo by UPLC–QTOF-MS
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Liu Xiaohui , Gao Shuting , Qian Kang , Liu Qingshan , Yin Xiaoying
Published: August 2017

We have developed a strategy to analyze the components absorbed in the plasma and brain tissue of rats after intragastric administration of Terminalia chebula Retz extracts by ultra-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC–QTOF-MS). Nine components (gallic acid, methyl gallate, ferulic acid, ethyl gallate, brevifolin carboxylic acid, ellagic acid, galloflavin, arjugenin, and arjunic acid) and four metabolites were identified in plasma, and five components (ethyl gallate, brevifolin carboxylic acid, ellagic acid, arjugenin, and arjunic acid) were identified in the rat brain based on their fragmentation behaviors. The components present in the plasma were associated with the antioxidant activity of T. chebula Retz, and the components absorbed in the brain were associated with its neuro-protective effects. This approach allowed us to rapidly determine the active components of T. chebula Retz and develop a method for its quality control. This analysis method showed good resolution and high sensitivity, and is a potentially powerful tool for the determination of effective components of natural products.
Quantitative determination of glycerol in antarctic krill (Euphausia superba Dana) by high-performance thin-layer chromatography
Authors: Han Xiangning , Liu Daicheng
Published: August 2017

In this reported study, a direct high-performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method was developed to qualitatively detect and quantitatively determine glycerol in Antarctic krill for the first time. This procedure was based on the extraction of glycerol by ultrasonic solvent extraction with anhydrous ethanol, silica-gel column chromatographic separation, HPTLC detection and quantification using methylene chloride–methanol (5:1, v/v) as the developing solvent and alkaline potassium permanganate as chromogenic agent. The content of glycerol was 1.3725 ± 0.218 mg/g in freeze-dried Antarctic krill. The structure of glycerol in the Antarctic krill was subsequently determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) which verified the presence of the material in the krill. The HPTLC method exhibited excellent accuracy with a recovery of 90.1–103.3% and good precision with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 1.59–4.84%. The results clearly exhibited the applicability of the proposed for quantifying glycerol in Antarctic krill.
Cell-Free DNA in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Spindler Karen-Lise G. , Boysen Anders K. , Pallisgård Niels , Johansen Julia S. , Tabernero Josep , Sørensen Morten M. , Jensen Benny V. , Hansen Torben F. , Sefrioui David , Andersen Rikke F. , Brandslund Ivan , Jakobsen Anders
Published: August 2017

Background

Circulating DNA can be detected and quantified in the blood of cancer patients and used for detection of tumor-specific genetic alterations. The clinical utility has been intensively investigated for the past 10 years. The majority of reports focus on analyzing the clinical potential of tumor-specific mutations, whereas the use of total cell-free DNA (cfDNA) quantification is somehow controversial and sparsely described in the literature, but holds important clinical information in itself. The purpose of the present report was to present a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prognostic value of total cfDNA in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treated with chemotherapy. In addition, we report on the overall performance of cfDNA as source for KRAS mutation detection.

Materials and Methods

A systematic literature search of PubMed and Embase was performed by two independent investigators. Eligibility criteria were (a) total cfDNA analysis, (b) mCRC, and (c) prognostic value during palliative treatment. The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and meta-analysis applied on both aggregate data extraction and individual patients’ data.

Results

Ten eligible cohorts were identified, including a total of 1,076 patients. Seven studies used quantitative polymerase chain reaction methods, two BEAMing [beads, emulsification, amplification, and magnetics] technology, and one study digital droplet polymerase chain reaction. The baseline levels of cfDNA was similar in the presented studies, and all studies reported a clear prognostic value in favor of patients with lowest levels of baseline cfDNA. A meta-analysis revealed a combined estimate of favorable overall survival hazard ratio (HR) in patients with levels below the median cfDNA (HR = 2.39, 95% confidence interval 2.03–2.82, p < .0001).

Conclusion

The total cfDNA levels are high in patients with mCRC and bear strong prognostic information, which should be tested prospectively by using a predefined cut-off value based on normal values in healthy cohorts. Finally, the potential use of cfDNA for detection of tumor-specific mutations was emphasized in a large individual patients’ data meta-analysis.
Exceptional Response with Immunotherapy in a Patient with Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Kollipara Revathi , Schneider Bryan , Radovich Milan , Babu Sunil , Kiel Patrick J.
Published: August 2017

Chemotherapy with or without radiation is the standard therapy for anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), although the response rate is not high and not durable. We describe a 62-year-old male who was diagnosed with ATC and initially treated with a thyroidectomy and lymph node dissection, followed by chemotherapy. Next generation sequencing was then performed to guide therapy and the tumor was found to have BRAF and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) positivity that was subsequently treated with vemurafenib and nivolumab. This led to substantial regression of tumor nodules. Genomic sequencing-based approaches to identify therapeutic targets has potential for improving outcomes. Currently, the patient continues to be in complete radiographic and clinical remission 20 months after beginning treatment with nivolumab.

Key Points

Programmed death-1 (PD-1)/PD-L1 immunotherapy has shown evidence of durable responses in certain malignancies such as melanoma, lung cancer, and renal cell carcinoma. PD-L1 positive tumors promote autoimmunity against the tumor; therefore, PD-1/PD-L1 blockade may be beneficial. Molecular profiling could possibly result in improved targeted therapy for certain malignancies.
How Dangerous Is Hyperkalemia?
Authors: Montford John R. , Linas Stuart
Published: August 2017

Hyperkalemia is a potentially life-threatening electrolyte disorder appreciated with greater frequency in patients with renal disease, heart failure, and with use of certain medications such as renin angiotensin aldosterone inhibitors. The traditional views that hyperkalemia can be reliably diagnosed by electrocardiogram and that particular levels of hyperkalemia confer cardiotoxic risk have been challenged by several reports of patients with atypic presentations. Epidemiologic data demonstrate strong associations of morbidity and mortality in patients with hyperkalemia but these associations appear disconnected in certain patient populations and in differing clinical presentations. Physiologic adaptation, structural cardiac disease, medication use, and degree of concurrent illness might predispose certain patients presenting with hyperkalemia to a lower or higher threshold for toxicity. These factors are often overlooked; yet data suggest that the clinical context in which hyperkalemia develops is at least as important as the degree of hyperkalemia is in determining patient outcome. This review summarizes the clinical data linking hyperkalemia with poor outcomes and discusses how the efficacy of certain treatments might depend on the clinical presentation.
Risk factors and management of ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Maka Shradha S. , Tondare Sangamesh B. , Tondare Mahesh B.
Published: August 2017

Background: One of the critical and commonest acute abdominal emergencies which a gynaecologist has to manage in day to day practise is ectopic pregnancy. The present study is compilation to know the risk factors and different modalities of medical and surgical management of patients with ectopic pregnancy.Methods: All patients diagnosed of Ectopic pregnancy at Basaveshwar teaching and general hospital and Sangameshwar teaching and general hospital attached to Mahadevappa Rampure Medical College were part of the study, over a period of two years (August 2014 to July 2016). It was a prospective study with pivot tables, graphs and chi square test.Results: In a span of 2 years 50 cases were studied. Maximum age incidence was 21-25 years. Greater incidence was seen in primigravida accounting for 28%. Most patients presented with pain in abdomen (50 cases). Risk factors included previous abortion, contraception history, sterilization history and pelvic surgery. 47 cases underwent laparotomy and 3 cases were managed medically. 66% had tubal rupture and the most common site was ampulla. Post-operative period was uneventful in majority of cases.Conclusions: With the increasing incidence of ectopic pregnancy, screening of high risk cases, early diagnosis and early intervention are required to prevent the maternal deaths and conservation of reproductive health.
Relationship between thyroid function and ICU mortality (sick euthyroid syndrome)
Authors: Bose Priyadarsini , Dasarathan Ramesh , Murugesan Arun Shivaraman Mulaur , Chenthil K. S.
Published: August 2017

Background: Sick euthyroid syndrome refers to alterations that occur in thyroid hormone levels in response to any critical illness like sepsis, ARDS, patients on mechanical ventilation and also any ICU patients. This study aimed at the relationship between thyroid hormone level changes and critical illness in ICU patients and predict the mortality based on thyroid hormone levels.Methods: A prospective study was designed to carry out in intensive care unit (ICU), Institute of internal medicine, Rajiv Gandhi government general hospital, Chennai for six months from May to August 2015. A total of 40 patients were selected who fulfilled the selection criteria.Results: APACHE II scores were calculated for all the 40 patients to assess whether thyroid function tests could independently predict the outcome of the patients. Again, the thyroid profile was compared with APACHE II scores in predicting the outcome. Values showed statistically significance.Conclusions: Thyroid profile can be used as an independent factor in predicting the outcome of the patients. Thyroid profile can also increase the sensitivity of APACHE II score in predicting the outcome.
AS AUDIOGRAFIAS COMO EXPERIÊNCIAS DE HISTÓRIA PÚBLICA: Possibilidades e desafios
Authors: Correa Luiz Otávio
Published: August 2017

O objetivo geral deste artigo é retomar a discussão sobre o desenvolvimento das audiografias, uma forma de se fazer História através da utilização da linguagem do Rádio que possa ser distribuída nas várias redes virtuais e em emisoras de rádio. As audiografias dialogam com a História Oral, sem no entanto se confundir com esta. Partiu-se de uma entrevista com o senhor Ricardo Parreiras, radialista, realizada para uma outra pesquisa sobre a Rádio Inconfidência que se está desenvolvendo. Esta entrevista permitiu que problematizassemos também com a História Pública, desenvolvendo um novo experimento audiográfico que foi disponibilizado na página do projeto Paisagens Históricas.
Introduction to the Issue
Authors: Eger, III Robert J.
Published: August 2017

Introduction to the Issue
Remaking Local Government: Success and Failure Under Indiana’s Government Modernization Act
Authors: Taylor Charles D. , Faulk Dagney , Schaal Pamela
Published: August 2017

During the period of 2008 to 2012, four consolidation attempts occurred under Indiana’s Government Modernization Act: two proposing city–county consolidation and two proposing town–township consolidation. The town–township mergers received overwhelming support, with more than 70% of voters approving consolidation in each case. The city–county mergers, on the other hand, were each defeated by a margin of approximately two to one. In this paper, we conduct a comparative case study of the four consolidation proposals using Leland and Thurmaier’s (2004) C3 model as an analytical framework. The results of our study indicate that greater demographic diversity and the potential for large cost shifts from urban to rural customers stimulated opposition to the city–county consolidations. The successful town–township consolidations were characterized by more homogeneous populations and modest and predictable fiscal impacts. We find no evidence that pre-existing functional consolidation or strong elite advocacy on behalf of consolidation leads to greater support for the referendum.
Social Worker Specialization: A Panacea to Nigerian Prisons Rehabilitation Service
Authors: Aliyu Kehinde Adekunle , Mustaffa Jamaludin , Nasir NorruzeyatiCheMohd
Published: August 2017

Nigerian’s prisons conditions is pathetic, a very dreadful and incompetent of assuring expected rehabilitation of inmates. There exists a general rareness of infrastructures, policies, and corruption in the system. Given this context, the main thrust of this study was to examine the specialization of social worker on the impact of prison rehabilitation programmes on the welfare of the inmates. To achieve the purpose of this study content analysis through the use of books, journal publications and available sources on the internet library. This is to give a profounder understanding of the specialization issues that surround social workers in Nigerian prisons with a view of bettering the inmate’s life. The findings of this research work reveals that, lack of qualified social workers affect the rehabilitation programme aim at reforming the inmates. Also, the findings disclose poor founding and ineffective governance as responsible for the shortage staff in the prison, rigidity (bureaucratic bottle neck) and institutional failure. Issues such as corruption, nepotism, and regional sentiments were the real problems behind the unspecialized social workers in Nigerian prisons service. 
Emission of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) at a waterfall in a sewer: study of main factors affecting H2S emission and modeling approaches
Authors: Jung Daniel , Hatrait Laetitia , Gouello Julien , Ponthieux Arnaud , Parez Vincent , Renner Christophe
Published: August 2017

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) represents one of the main odorant gases emitted from sewer networks. A mathematical model can be a fast and low-cost tool for estimating its emission. This study investigates two approaches to modeling H2S gas transfer at a waterfall in a discharge manhole. The first approach is based on an adaptation of oxygen models for H2S emission at a waterfall and the second consists of a new model. An experimental set-up and a statistical data analysis allowed the main factors affecting H2S emission to be studied. A new model of the emission kinetics was developed using linear regression and taking into account H2S liquid concentration, waterfall height and fluid velocity at the outlet pipe of a rising main. Its prediction interval was estimated by the residual standard deviation (15.6%) up to a rate of 2.3 g H2S·h−1. Finally, data coming from four sampling campaigns on sewer networks were used to perform simulations and compare predictions of all developed models.
Pragmatic Randomized, Controlled Trial of Patient Navigators and Enhanced Personal Health Records in CKD
Authors: Navaneethan Sankar D. , Jolly Stacey E. , Schold Jesse D. , Arrigain Susana , Nakhoul Georges , Konig Victoria , Hyland Jennifer , Burrucker Yvette K. , Dann Priscilla Davis , Tucky Barbara H. , Sharp John , Nally Joseph V.
Published: August 2017

Background and objectives

Patient navigators and enhanced personal health records improve the quality of health care delivered in other disease states. We aimed to develop a navigator program for patients with CKD and an electronic health record–based enhanced personal health record to disseminate CKD stage–specific goals of care and education. We also conducted a pragmatic randomized clinical trial to compare the effect of a navigator program for patients with CKD with enhanced personal health record and compare their combination compared with usual care among patients with CKD stage 3b/4.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Two hundred and nine patients from six outpatient clinics (in both primary care and nephrology settings) were randomized in a 2×2 factorial design into four-study groups: (1) enhanced personal health record only, (2) patient navigator only, (3) both, and (4) usual care (control) group. Primary outcome measure was the change in eGFR over a 2-year follow-up period. Secondary outcome measures included acquisition of appropriate CKD-related laboratory measures, specialty referrals, and hospitalization rates.

Results

Median age of the study population was 68 years old, and 75% were white. At study entry, 54% of patients were followed by nephrologists, and 88% were on renin-angiotensin system blockers. After a 2-year follow-up, rate of decline in eGFR was similar across the four groups (P=0.19). Measurements of CKD-related laboratory parameters were not significantly different among the groups. Furthermore, referral for dialysis education and vascular access placement, emergency room visits, and hospitalization rates were not statistically significant different between the groups.

Conclusions

We successfully developed a patient navigator program and an enhanced personal health record for the CKD population. However, there were no differences in eGFR decline and other outcomes among the study groups. Larger and long-term studies along with cost-effectiveness analyses are needed to evaluate the role of patient navigators and patient education through an enhanced personal health record in those with CKD.
The model is integrated satellite gyroscopic system operational determination of high-precision bearing
Authors: Chernov I.V.
Published: August 2017

The article considers the possibility of rapid determination of azimuth directions with high accuracy. It is shown that the gyroscopic method and the relative method of space geodesy with high efficiency, allows to obtain the azimuths of the directions with high precision and Autonomous. To achieve high accuracy of orientation with the use of satellite geodetic equipment are encouraged to design observations with regard to the length and azimuth direction, and time of observation. This will allow to abandon the use of the original geodetic framework that will increase efficiency. To improve the reliability of the obtained azimuth directions, it is proposed to integrate the gyroscopic observations and satellite observations without using the original geodesic Foundation. Considered by the joint processing of satellite and gyro measurements as a dual and unequal dimensions. In conclusion, the a priori calculation of observing time and accuracy of the resulting values of azimuth directions.
Investigation of an algorithm for analyzing deformations of geodetic points when observing horizontal displacements of hydraulic structures
Authors: Markuze Yu.I. , Le Anh Cuong
Published: August 2017

In recent years, many hydraulic structures have been modernized and built in Vietnam. Monitoring the deformations of hydraulic structures are extremely important. The results of observations of deformations to assess the stability and safety of structures help specialists make the process of construction and reconstruction of hydraulic structures more reliable and safe. At present, a personal computer is very widely used in processing the results of geodetic measurements. By using algorithms on a computer, we can simply and quickly solve problems with a huge number of calculations. The article deals with the application of a recurrent way of equalizing for the analysis of deformations of geodetic points when observing horizontal displacement of hydraulic structures in Vietnam. The use of the proposed algorithm in this article is conveniently implemented in practical calculations using a computer. The result of the calculation of the example indicates that combining the observation cycles to increase the accuracy of the observed items.
The experience of large-scale mapping of the Arctic landscapes in Western Siberia
Authors: Idrisov I.R. , Marshinin A.V. , Marinskikh D.M.
Published: August 2017

Landscape mapping was carried out mainly for solving the economic tasks connected with oil and gas development of the region, in particular within some works on environmental impact assessment. Within these types of works, large-scale landscape maps were created. The authors prepared large-scale landscape maps (1
Mapping of the ecosystem services in Zabaikalskiy National Park
Authors: Istomina E.A. , Luzhkova N.M.
Published: August 2017

Assessment and mapping of ecosystem services (ES) plays important role in planning of tourism activities. It may serve as the basis for recreation development in Zabaikalsky National Park. With information on the land-use and predominant tree species from the forest inventory database area, we could divide the territory in following land cover categories, corresponding with CORINE international classification
Compilation of the vegetation map, central part of the Tigiretsky range (Altaikrai)
Authors: Grischchenko M.Yu. , Bocharnikov M.V. , Gnedenko A.E.
Published: August 2017

The paper shows the process of drawing up an inventory high-scale map of modern vegetation of the central part of the Tigiretsky ridge based on field surveys and multispectral satellite imagery SPOT-5 and Landsat 8. A computer-aided and visual interpretation of images was led; the most representative geobotanical descriptions were used for making signatures for the computeraided interpretation. The legend of the map is based on ecological-morphological classification of plant communities and includes 23 features. Resulting high-scale map allows an assessment of the spatial structure of the study area vegetation on the topological level. Within each zone the distribution of vegetation types is characterized by certain laws, subject to the conditions of the environment. To identify them were analyzed the ratio of the areas the various types of plant communities within each zone with the assessment of the conditions that affect their distribution. The structure of the vegetation cover is well described by a morphometric characteristics - exposure, steepness of slopes and hypsometric level. This influence is different for various zones
Cartographic evaluation of the provision of the Baikal transboundary region with the sources of centralized water supply
Authors: Bezrukov L.A.
Published: August 2017

A quantitative evaluation of the provision of the Baikal transboundary region, its districts and aimags with the surface sources of centralized water supply is given on the ground of a special method of mapping and definition of sustainable streamflow. The minimum streamflow data in a limiting winter season has been accepted as the values of sustainable streamflow, thus considering the six different zones of water availability. The values of the sustainable streamflow and water situation of the population were obtained for the 86 municipal regions of Russia (33 districts of the Irkutsk region, 31 – Zabaykalsky Krai, 21 – the Republic of Buryatia, 1 – the Republic of Tyva) and 12 aimags of Mongolia. The problem of low water availability in Zabaykalsky Krai and, especially, Mongolia, which has a great difficulty with the water supply. The main factors which have determined the sharp unevenness of the territorial distribution of the sustainable streamflow and the sources of the centralized water supply.
Development of the mean sea dynamic topography on the Vietnam water area based on TOPEX/POSEIDON, ENVISAT and JASON-2 DATA
Authors: Nguyen Van Sang , Popadyev V.V.
Published: August 2017

Mean Dynamic Topography (MDT) is the difference between mean sea surface height and geoid. Satellite altimetry data are known as sea surface height (ellipsoidal height), including geoid height, Mean Dynamic Topography and dynamic sea surface topography ht. To determine Mean Dynamic Topography from satellite altimetry data, the geoid height and dynamic sea surface topography should be removed from sea surface height. In this study, geoid height was computed from spherical harmonic coefficients of global Earth Gravity Model (EGM-2008). ht was determined using technique of tracks crossover adjustment. Finally, gridded model of Mean Dynamic Topography was established by using mean-squares prediction technique. By experimental processing and analysis, the gridded model of Mean Dynamic Topography had successfully built 5′ × 5′, named HUMG16MDT, for East Sea, using data of three altimetric satellites, namely TOPEX/POSEIDON, ENVISAT and JASON-2. For control purposes, this model was compared with the measurements on nine tidal stations, the computed estimation of standard deviation 15,5 cm.
Computation of first and second order derivatives gravity potential in different coordinate systems
Authors: Kluykov A.A. , Yashkin S.N.
Published: August 2017

The determination of parameters of the Earth’s gravitational field model by using the satellite gravity projects CHAMP, GRACE, GOCE is carried out on the basis of mathematical processing of measurement information of sensor systems installed on board of a spacecraft. Each of these sensor systems realizes its coordinate system, in which measurements are performed. Measured parameters, as a rule, are related to the coordinate system of the sensory system, and the required parameters refer to the Earth’s coordinate system (EFRF). Therefore, to determine the required parameters, it is necessary to perform the conversion of the measured parameter from one system to another. In this paper we obtain formulas that allow us to calculate the first and second derivatives of the gravitational potential in spherical, rectangular and local rectangular coordinate systems. Matrices are also obtained, with the help of which the transformation from one coordinate system to another is carried out. The formulas given in the article are necessary for performing mathematical processing of gradientometric measurements in order to determine the parameters of the Earth’s gravitational field.
El trabajo interdisciplinario. Reflexiones del profesor de apoyo sobre su funcionalidad en los servicios de educación especial / Interdisciplinary work. Supportive teacher reflections about its functionality in the special education services
Authors: Gutiérrez Rivera Roberto , Gómez Bonilla R. Edgar
Published: August 2017

El presente artículo tiene como propósito presentar las condiciones académicas e institucionales con las que el Licenciado en Educación Especial desarrolla la práctica docente en el nivel de Educación Especial; al respecto, se analiza el funcionamiento del trabajo interdisciplinario en la atención de alumnos que enfrentan Barreras para el Aprendizaje y la Participación Social (BAPS) y que son atendidos en la Unidad de Servicio de Apoyo a la Escuela Regular (USAER). El enfoque metodológico es cualitativo, basado en un diseño fenomenológico y de estudio de casos, los cuales permiten interpretar los significados que le asignan los profesores al trabajo interdisciplinario, basados en el componente pedagógico-didáctico de la categoría de investigación: la práctica docente. Se utiliza como referente de estudio a los docentes egresados de la Escuela Normal de Educación Especial, quienes se ubican en tres contextos educativos del Estado de Oaxaca, México.Los resultados obtenidos puntualizan la relevancia del trabajo interdisciplinario para asegurar la atención de alumnos con discapacidad, como un ejercicio inherente a la práctica profesional para la atención de la diversidad desde el nivel de Educación Especial.
Survey On Methanol Poisoning Epidemic in Rafsanjan City in Year 2013
Authors: Mirzaee Vahid , Riahi Zahra , Sharifzadeh Zahra , Kardoust Parizi Moein , Adinehpour Amir
Published: August 2017

Background: Examination and early detection of the methanol toxicity epidemic are very important, so identification and initiation of appropriate therapy can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality. Therefore, this study was aimed to investigation methanol poisoning epidemic in  Rafsanjan city.Methods: This case series study was conducted in 252 patients with methanol poisoning in 2013 in the Ali-ibn-Abi-Talib hospital of Rafsanjan. Data were through interviews and records that were collected at hospital admission. Due to the large number of patients and the possible lack of ability of rapid measurement of serum levels of methanol and need of rapid intervention, treatment to reduce any further complications, early diagnosis and treatment were carried out by clinical history and interpretation of arterial blood gas test results. Data record on provided checklists and then analyzed using SPSS version 19.Results: The mean pH was 0.13±7.27. The most frequent clinical features were visual disturbances (39.7%), dyspnea (1.2%), and gastrointestinal symptoms (7.1%). There was a trend towards decreasing PCO2 with decreasing pH amongst the patients surviving. The opposite trend was demonstrated in the dying; the difference was highly significant by linear regression analyses (P< 0.001).Conclusions: Methanol poisoning still has a high morbidity and mortality, mainly because of late diagnosis and treatment. Respiratory arrest, coma and severe metabolic acidosis upon admission were strong predictors of poor outcome. Early admission and ability of respiratory compensation of metabolic acidosis were associated with survival.