bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is tranexamic acid effective and safe for patients undergoing revision total hip and knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysisIs
Authors: Wu Qian , Xu Jiang nan , Zong Lu jie , Wang Sheng hao , Xu Wu , Huang Lixin , Li Li song
Published: October 2019

Background: The use of tranexamic acid (TXA) during primary total joint arthroplasty （pTJA） is well documented. However, whether TXA is safe for patients undergoing revision total joint arthroplasty (rTJA) remains to be resolved.
Methods: This meta-analysis included 12 studies that involved 2195 cases. The primary outcomes were indicators of TXA effectiveness during perioperative perid, including blood loss, haemoglobin (Hb) level changes, allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) rate, and number of red blood cell (RBC) units transfused per patient. The secondary outcomes included thromboembolic complications, non-thromboembolic complications, and length of hospital stay.
Results: TXA administration was associated with statistically significant decreases in the primary outcomes, including ABT rate (odds ratio [OR], 0.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.14–0.41; P < 0.00001), change in Hb level (mean difference [MD], −0.84; 95% CI, −1.28 to −0.41; P=0.002), and number of RBC units transfused per patient (MD, −0.49; 95% CI, −0.61 to −0.38; P < 0.00001) in the patients undergoing rTJA. Secondary outcome assessments showed no statistically significant differences in venous thromboembolism (OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.31–3.14; P=0.98) and non-thromboembolic complications (OR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.18–1.68; P=0.29) between the patients who received and those who did not receive TXA in the revision total knee arthroplasty subgroup, while a significant decrease in length of hospital stay was found in those who received TXA (MD, −2.89; 95% CI, −4.85 to −0.93; P=0.004).
Conclusion: In this meta-analysis, we found that the use of TXA acid can effectively reduce the number of blood transfusions in patients undergoing TJA without increasing the complication rate.
Incidence of Hemidiaphragmatic Paralysis with Patient Controlled Infusion of Low Volume of Ropivacaine after Ultrasound Guided Low Dose Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block, A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: KUSHAL PANKAJ , SAMRA TANVIR , Saini Vikas , Sethi Sameer , Chouhan Devendra Kumar , Kathuria Rahul
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND Hemidiaphragmatic paralysis is a complication of single shot and continuous interscalene brachial plexus block that can be minimised by ultrasound guided extrafascial catheter placements and by limiting the amount of local anaesthetic administered. We hypothesized that patient controlled infusion of low volume of ropivacaine for a period of 24 hours would not cause hemidiaphragmatic paralysis and would provide adequate analgesia.METHODS 54 patients aged 18-65 years undergoing surgery for shoulder dislocation or proximal humerus fracture were recruited and allocated into two groups of 27 each, patient controlled interscalene analgesia (PCIA) and multimodal analgesia (MA). Interscalene catheter was inserted at end of surgery and 10 ml of 0.5% ropivacaine was administered as single bolus dose. PCIA was initiated after four hours to deliver background infusion of 2 ml/hr, bolus of 5ml (0.2% of ropivacaine) with lockout interval of 30 minutes for a total duration of 24 hours. Incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis using M-mode ultrasonography was recorded at extubation,4,6,12 and 24hrs. Numerical rating scale (NRS) for pain, patient satisfaction score and complications were also recorded. Acetaminophen (1 gm) and diclofenac 75 gm were used in MA group.RESULT No diaphragmatic paresis was reported in patients administered the background infusion or single bolus doses of ropivacaine and scanned at 4, 6,12 and 24 hrs. Partial paresis was noted in all patients in which two bolus doses/hour were administered 30 minutes after the second bolus. All patients with paresis had diaphragmatic excursion normalized in the next recording made at 4 hours and no complication was reported in any patient. NRS was below 3 at all time points in PCIA and the cumulative fentanyl and tramadol consumption was significantly higher in MA group. The incidence of complete and partial paresis of diaphragm was 85%and 3.7% after single shot bolus dose respectively and had resolved before start of infusion after 4 hours.CONCLUSION Patient controlled low volume continous infusion of ropivacaine (2 ml/hr of 0.2% of ropivacaine) with administration of a single bolus dose of 5ml in an hour does not cause unilateral phrenic paresis. Partial paresis is reported with two bolus doses/hour.Clinical trial number NCT03081728 (clinicaltrials.gov;)
Detection of genes mutations in cerebrospinal fluid circulating tumor DNA from neoplastic meningitis patients using next generation sequencing
Authors: Zhao Yue , He JunYing , Guo Li , Zou YueLi , Cui JunZhao , Guo XiaoSu , Chen Xin , Han WeiXin , Wang Xueliang , Li Chunyan , Bu Hui
Published: October 2019

Background This study profiled the somatic gene mutations and the copy number variations (CNVs) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from patients with neoplastic meningitis (NM).Methods A total of 62 CSF ctDNA samples were collected from 58 NM patients for the next generation sequencing. The data were blasted in GenBank and bioinformatically analyzed.Results Cancer-associated gene mutations occurred in all 62 CSF ctDNA samples in TP53 (54/62; 87.10%), EGFR (44/62; 70.97%), PTEN (39/62; 62.90%), CDKN2A (32/62; 51.61%), APC (27/62: 43.55%), TET2 (27/62; 43.55%), GNAQ (18/62; 29.03%), NOTCH1 (17/62; 27.42%), VHL (17/62; 27.42%), FLT3 (16/62; 25.81%), PTCH1 (15/62; 24.19%), BRCA2 (13/62; 20.97%), KDR (10/62; 16.13%), KIT (9/62; 14.52%), MLH1 (9/62; 14.52%), ATM (8/62; 12.90%), CBL (8/62; 12.90%), and DNMT3A (7/62; 11.29%). The mutated genes enriched by the KEGG pathway analysis were the PI3K-Akt, which included the genes of TP53 , EGFR , PTEN , KIT and KDR. After receiving intrathecal and systemic chemotherapy, the ERK1/2 signaling pathways of these CSF samples were activated. Furthermore, the CNVs of these genes were also identified in these 62 samples.Conclusions This study identified gene mutations in all CSF ctDNA samples, indicating that such an approach could be useful as a second-line diagnostic strategy for NM patients. PI3K-Akt signaling may be the potential NM metastasis mechanism.
Assessment of Predictive Validity and Feasibility of Edmonton Frailty Scale in Identifying Postoperative Complications among Asian Elderly Patients A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: He Yingke , Li Lydia Weiling , Ying Hao , Sim Eileen Yilin , Ng Kai Lee , Lee Rui , Lim Mattheaus , Poopalalingam Ruban , Abdullah Hairil Rizal
Published: October 2019

Background
Frailty is defined as diminished physiological reserve predisposing one to adverse outcomes when exposed to stressors. Currently, there is no standardized frailty assessment tool used perioperatively. Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS), which is validated for use by non-geriatricians and in selected surgical populations, is a candidate for this role. Scores ranging from “non-frail” (<=5 points), “vulnerable” (6<=n<=7 points) and “frail” (>=8 points). However, little evaluation of its use has been carried out in the Asians so far. The primary aim of this study is to assess if frailty measured by EFS is predictive of postoperative complications in elderly Asian patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery. We also aim to assess the feasibility of implementing EFS as a standard tool in the outpatient preoperative assessment clinic setting.
Methods
This is a prospective observational study done among patients aged 70 years and above attended PAC in Singapore General Hospital prior to major abdominal surgery from December 2017 to September 2018. The Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI) and Postoperative Morbidity Survey (POMS) were used to assess their postoperative morbidity respectively. Patient’s acceptability of EFS was measured using the QQ-10 questionnaire and the inter-rater variability of EFS was also assessed using Bland Altman plot.
Results
EFS score was found to be a significant predictor of postoperative morbidity. (OR 1.35, p < 0.001) Each point increase in EFS score was associated with a 3 point increase in CCI score. (Coefficient b 2.944, p < 0.001) EFS score more than 4 has a fair predictability of early and 30-day postoperative complications. Feasibility study demonstrated an overall acceptance of the EFS among our patients with good inter-rater agreement.
Conclusion
These results show that EFS is able to predict postoperative complications in elderly Asian patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery. It is also feasible to be incorporated as a standard assessment in the outpatient preoperative clinic setting.
A scoping review of age-related health conditions among geriatric populations in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Naidoo Keshena , Wyk Jacqueline van
Published: October 2019

Background Globally people are living longer, resulting in an increased demand for primary care services to be responsive to geriatric health needs. There is however, little information on the nature and prevalence of age-related health conditions among older adults in the sub-Saharan African (SSA) region. This scoping review was undertaken to synthesise evidence on the scope and nature of age-related health needs among people aged 60 years and older in SSA. Methods We systematically searched five electronic databases for studies published prior to 30 June 2019. Using the keywords “Africa”, “older adult” or “geriatric”, and “health”, two independent reviewers used a set of eligibility criteria to extract and screen the abstracts and full-text publications. Particular focus was given to age-dependent disorders in people over 60 years such as dementia, disability and falls Results Sixty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. The review revealed a noticeable absence of studies from the majority of Sub-Saharan African countries. Publications included for review represent twelve countries from this region. The morbidities reported on included dementia, functional impairment, mental health, falls, sarcopenia and nutritional disorders, sensory impairment, frailty and musculoskeletal disorders. Many of these conditions co-existed among older adults, resulting in impaired quality of life and disability. Modifiable factors for geriatric morbidity such as hypertension, depression, cognitive and sensory impairments were under-diagnosed and often untreated. Low awareness and management of these conditions were noted among health providers and communities in SSA region. Conclusions The body of empiric research and evidence on age-related health conditions in geriatric people in SSA remains small. Further research is required on screening and management programs for age-related conditions in people over 60 years in SSA, and health professions training in the care of older adults. Ethics and dissemination : This study did not include human participants. Data was sourced from published literature. Keywords: older adult - geriatric - aged - health - Africa
Modal analysis application for the problemof gamma-ray spectrometers resolution improving
Authors: Malgin Vladislav , Jakovļevs Oļegs , Vība Jānis
Published: October 2019

The cryostat of gamma-ray spectrometer with HPGe detector cooled by Stirling cycle cryocooler is under consideration. The natural frequencies and modes shapes for components involved to oscillatory systems distinguished in dynamic model of cryostat were calculated by Solidworks simulation. The results obtained for the gamma-ray spectrometer “Monolith” produced by BSI, represent its specific modal portrait and allow identification the components of electrical noise due to microphone effect. The absence of resonant amplification due to coincidence between the harmonics of cryocooler operating frequency and the natural frequencies of the cryostat components is an important condition for reducing the influence of microphonics. The results obtained by modal analysis are also useful for assessing the influence of external mechanical disturbances, such as shocks, external vibration or audible noise.
Study on multi-axis sine vibration test control techniques
Authors: Qiu Hanping , Feng Yaoqi , Fan Shichao , Du Xiaozhou , Zhang Wenbing
Published: October 2019

This paper describes several key aspects about multi-axis sine vibration test control techniques including the identification of the system frequency response function, synchronization of the input and output signals, the generation of the sinewave, the control algorithm, etc. A multi-axis sine vibration controller is developed based on these key techniques and the major framework of the controller is introduced. Finally, a dual axial experiment is carried out by the controller. The test results show the feasibility of the control algorithm and the good control strategy of the multi-axis sine vibration controller in which the key techniques are realized.
Acoustic vibration response and power generation characteristics of airborne acoustic generator system
Authors: Li Zhipeng , Chen Hejuan
Published: October 2019

Aiming at the problem of insufficient power supply in modern intelligent fuze, it is of great theoretical significance and practical guidance to study the relationship between acoustic vibration response and power generation characteristics of airborne piezoelectric generators and maximum energy output. Theoretical analysis and experimental verification show that: 1. As long as the frequency of the acoustic wave induced by the flow coincides with the frequency of the acoustical modal in the cavity, a sinusoidal vibration excitation signal will be generated in the cavity; 2. With the increase of the flow rate, the frequency of the vibration signal coupled by the fluid sound source also increases. If the frequency of the acoustic wave is near the anti-resonance frequency of the piezoelectric vibrator, the displacement amplitude of the piezoelectric vibrator increases greatly. The maximum output open circuit voltage is the maximum power generated when the external circuit is connected; 3. The amplitude of the open circuit voltage of the electromechanical coupling output is linear with the amplitude of the displacement of the piezoelectric vibrator, the frequency is the same, the phase angle is the same, and the displacement and the exciting force of the piezoelectric vibrator have the characteristics of the same frequencies and backward phases, the maximum displacement of the piezoelectric vibrator is related to the amplitude of the exciting force and the angular frequency of the exciting force. This characteristic can be used to solve the piezoelectric stress factor under different initial conditions from the experimental point of view.
Creep modeling of asperities on joint surface and its effect on joint surface stiffness
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Zhang Jian-run
Published: October 2019

Creep of the asperities on joint surface will change the stiffness characteristics of joint surface. Based on creep mechanics, a novel creep model of asperities between two rough surfaces is established from a microscopic point of view in this paper. The change of joint stiffness caused by creep of asperities under constant pre-tightening force is analyzed. The results show that the creep of the asperities leads to the increase of the stiffness of the joint surface with the increase of time when the joint force is constant. Moreover, the influence of key parameters of joint surface on creep of asperities is further studied. It is found that the change rate of joint stiffness increases with the increase of initial contact distance and contact area. According to the proposed creep model and the findings in this paper, more accurate stiffness characteristics of joint surface can be achieved for analysis of dynamic and static characteristics of structures with time.
Safety evaluation method of bridge plate rubber bearing based on SVM
Authors: Liu Chen , Ni Yongjun
Published: October 2019

In order to comprehensively evaluate the working state and safety performance of the bridge plate rubber bearing (PRB), the basic principle and method of SVM in machine learning theory (Support Vector Machine) was introduced in this paper. Firstly, the performance indices (such as the average compression stress, tangent value of the shear angle and the rotation angle of the PRB) were analyzed and calculated through its finite element model considering the different working conditions (axial compression, shear deformation and the rotation deformation of the PRB). Subsequently, considering the relevant indices affecting the safety performance of the PRB, the Pearson Correlation Coefficients (PCC) were calculated by SVM method for assessing the internal correlation of the performance indices of the PRB for different cases, respectively. The threshold values of the influential factors for different cases considering the PCC and the weight coefficient were obtained for grading the working state of the PRB as five levels. Moreover, in order to verify the validity and suitability of the evaluation of the working state of the plate rubber bearing by the SVM method, three apparent indices for grading the performance level of the PRB such as the crack, the undistributed spalling deformation and the dislocation of the PRB were analyzed and compared with the qualitative descriptions and the quantitative values. Finally, the corresponding threshold values for grading the performance levels of the PRB working states were proposed. It was shown that the SVM based evaluation method for the PRB is feasible and convenient, especially for the bridges with real-time monitoring devices to get the response data of the PRB.
Design and analysis of magnetic circuit of permanent magnet eddy current brake
Authors: Fan Yumeng , Yang Guolai
Published: October 2019

The eddy current brake has the advantages of no frictional contact or hydraulic fluid, high structural reliability, etc. The existing linear eddy current brakes are mostly flat type. A cylindrical permanent magnet eddy current brake is proposed in this paper, whose air gap magnetic field is generated by a series of ring-shaped permanent magnets and guided by iron pole to conductor layers, and can achieve higher air gap magnetic flux density. This paper introduces its basic structure and working principle. In order to obtain the analytical model of magnetic circuit design, the equivalent magnetic circuit method is used to analyze and derive the magnetic circuit, and it is verified by the axisymmetric finite element model. To derive the braking force generated by the eddy current brake, the layer theory approach is applied. The influence of electromagnetic parameters on the force characteristic is obtained by finite element numerical calculation, which provides a theoretical basis for the optimal design of the eddy current brake.
Linear forced-rotordynamics analysis for optimizing the performance factors of machine motorized spindle using design explorer method
Authors: Ahmed Elhaj A. I. , Shusen Li , Helal Wasim M. K. , Eisa Abdelrahman I. A.
Published: October 2019

A machine-tool structure optimization is an important technique that improves the machining efficiency and saves materials and the energy resource. In this work, dynamic design optimization method for Machine-Motorized-Spindle (MMS) subjected to a number of rotating unbalanced forces effects is presented. Linear forced-Rotordynamic analysis with design explorer method has been used to simulate the output response. The Design Variables (DVs) and their limits were carefully chosen and applied to develop the Design-of-Experiment (DOE). The Box-Behnken Design (BBD) method, because of its good organization in providing much information in a minor number of required statistical experiments was used to generate the DOE. The influences of DVs on the dynamic of MMS and their levels optimization were evaluated by utilizing the Response-Surface (RS) method. The results showed that the spindle shaft inner diameter of the motor-rotor seat and its rotating unbalanced mass, and modulus of elasticity have the highest contribution in effect on the dynamic of MMHS. As well, it is found that the proposed optimization method not only improves the structural weight of MMS, but also the potential saving can be achieved in term material and energy resource.
Efecto de la premedicación de Fentanilo-acepromacina y Fentanilo-xilacina sobre la presentación de vómito posoperatorio en perros
Authors: Bermúdez Paula María , Rivera José Alfredo
Published: October 2019

La inclusión de opioides durante la preanestesia y anestesia, potencialmente puede incrementar la presentación de vómito y náuseas posoperatorias, acrecentando el riesgo de presentación de sangrado, dehiscencias, neumonía poraspiración o esofagitis. En éste estudio se evaluó la presentación de vómito,salivación excesiva y anorexia durante 24 horas del periodo posanestésico en 100 perros ASA I y II. El grupo A (n: 40) fue premedicado con una mezcla de acepromacina a 0.08 mg/kg i.v. y fentanilo a 5 μg/kg i.v. y el grupo X (n: 60) con xilacina a 0.3 mg/kg i.v. más fentanilo a 5 μg/kg i.v. La inducción anestésica para ambos grupos se realizó con propofol a 4 mg/kg y el mantenimiento con isoflurano a 1,5-3%. La presentación general de vómito post-anestesia fue del 12%. Entre ambos grupos no se encontraron diferencias significativas en la incidencia de vómito a las 2 (p= 0,837), a las 6 (p= 0,439) y a las 24 horas (p= 0,639). No hubo diferencias significativas entre grupos para la presentación de salivación excesiva o anorexia. Se encontró una asociación entre vómito post-anestésico y cirugía del aparato reproductivo en hembras (p= 0,02). Se concluye que un único bolo de fentanilo a 5 μg/kg con acepromacina a 0,08 mg/kg o xilacina 0,3 mg/kg durante la premedicación anestésica, no incrementa la presentación de vómito en las primeras 24 horas del postquirúrgico en perros.
Incidencia y prevalencia de cetosis clínica y subclínica en ganado en pastoreo en el altiplano Cundiboyacense, Colombia
Authors: Garzón Audor Adriana Marcela , Oliver Espinosa Olimpo Juan
Published: October 2019

La cetosis es una enfermedad metabólica común en los hatos lecheros,que ocasiona pérdidas económicas a través de la disminución de la producción láctea y la eficiencia reproductiva y mayor riesgo de descarte temprano.En el Altiplano Cundiboyacense, la incidencia de la enfermedad es desconocida. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la incidencia y la prevalencia de la cetosis subclínica (CSC) y clínica (CC) durante las primeras seis semanas postparto en vacas dedicadas a la producción láctea. Una muestra por conveniencia de 150 vacas de 10 hatos lecheros ubicados en el altiplano cundiboyacense, fueron seguidas semanalmente, para determinar la concentración de βHB con un medidor electroquímico portátil. Las lactancias, días en leche, condición corporal, duración del preparto y periodo seco, raza, producción láctea y enfermedades postparto de cada animal fueron registradas. Las prácticas de manejo de cada finca fueron determinadas con una encuesta. Se calculó la incidencia semanal y acumulada además de la prevalencia de la CC y CSC. La incidencia acumulada de CC y CSC fue de 3,3% y 25,3%, respectivamente. El pico de incidencia de CSC ocurrió en la semana 4 postparto y en la semana 2, para CC. La prevalencia de CSC fue del 42,6%y 6%, para la CC. La enfermedad fue más prevalente en las vacas de ≥3 lactancias.Las enfermedades más importantes durante el postparto fueron la retención de placenta y metritis. La CSC fue altamente incidente durante las primeras seis semanas posparto, más relevante durante la cuarta semana posparto en vacas multíparas.
Haemonchosis en una ternera raza Brahman en el trópico alto del Nordeste Antioqueño
Authors: Villar David , López-Osorio Sara , Giraldo-Zuluaga Aura María , Navarro Leonardo , Chaparro-Gutiérrez Jenny J
Published: October 2019

La haemonchosis es una parasitosis que, en bovinos, a diferencia de los pequeños rumiantes, raramente causa mortalidad. No obstante, cargas parasitarias que normalmente son subclínicas en terneros bien alimentados, pueden convertirse en clínicas causando la muerte, cuando la condición corporal es pobre. Este reporte describe un caso de haemonchosis fatal en un ternero Brahman de 7 meses y el resultado del tratamiento con albendazol (10 mg/kg PO) en 17 terneros congéneres.La finca es de cría y levante de ganado de carne y está ubicada en el trópico alto, en el municipio de Yarumal, Antioquia, a una altura de 2.353 m.s.n.m y una temperatura promedio de 14 ºC. En la producción no reportan plan sanitario adicional a la vacunación contra aftosa. El diagnóstico se sospechó inicialmente con base en observaciones clínico-patológicas de una anemia severa con hipoproteinemia de etiología noinflamatoria, y se confirmó en el examen post-mortem por la presencia de cientos denematodos adultos de Haemonchus spp. en el abomaso, y un recuento de 19.200 huevos por gramo (HPG) de heces de trichostrongylidos. El coprocultivo de heces mostró que el 70, 20, y 10% de dichos huevos pertenecían a especies de Haemonchus, Coperia,y otros géneros de nematodos, respectivamente. El tratamiento con albendazol fueeficaz reduciendo las cargas parasitarias en los 17 terneros tratados desde niveles moderados (200-700 HPG) y altos (>700 HPG), a niveles bajos (16-100 HPG). Se redujo por completo la infección en la mitad de los animales tratados y solo estuvo por debajo del 90% en 3 animales. Debido a que la media del porcentaje de reducción de huevos fue del 95% se deduce que no existe resistencia al albendazol. En conclusión,este caso revela que la haemonchosis en terneros debe incluirse dentro de los diagnósticos diferenciales de mortalidad en el trópico colombiano y la realización de necropsias y exámenes coprológicos periódicos son imprescindibles para poder instaurar medidas preventivas y de control de dichas parasitosis.
Descripción morfológica y biomecánica de la articulación de la rodilla del canino (Canis lupus familiaris)
Authors: Saldivia Paredes Manuel
Published: October 2019

Las articulaciones sinoviales o también conocidas como diartroideas se caracterizan por presentar gran movilidad, estar constituidas por una cápsula articular de protección, la que a su vez internamente permite la formación de una cavidad, donde es posible observar el líquido sinovial,responsable de proveer elementos nutricios; producir la depuración de los desechos celulares; realizar una amortiguación entre las caras articulares y lubricar las superficies articulares. La rodilla es una de las articulaciones sinoviales más grandes del cuerpo y una de las más complejas en su morfología y biomecánica. Su conformación anatómica consta de la unión de estructuras óseas, cartilaginosas, ligamentosas, vasculares y musculares que permiten otorgar una funcionalidad específica en su capacidad extensora, flexora y leve rotación. Por lo que el objetivo del siguiente estudio fue realizar una descripción morfológica de las estructuras anatómicas macroscópicas,que participan en la conformación de la articulación de la rodilla y como ellas pueden permitir una funcionalidad biomecánica particular. Para ello se realizaron disecciones de 10 rodillas de perros machos conservados en el laboratorio de anatomía veterinaria de la Universidad Santo Tomás, sede Puerto Montt. Los resultados indican características detalladas de la morfología de la rodilla del canino y como cada uno de ellos permiten entender y explicar la capacidad biomecánica de esta articulación.
An SDG-based framework for assessing urban stormwater management systems
Authors: Sørup Hjalte Jomo Danielsen , Fryd Ole , Liu Li , Arnbjerg-Nielsen Karsten , Jensen Marina Bergen
Published: October 2019

Nature-Based Solutions for stormwater management on top of handling water should, ideally, deliver a multitude of other services to society; they are often seen as a lever for transforming cities in a more livable, green, resilient and sustainable direction, and these measures should be acknowledged as part of the services delivered. In this study we assess the services that Nature-Based Solutions for stormwater management deliver with reference to targets and indicators from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; we also develop local, project level indicators that inform and are informed by the more broad Sustainable Development Goals indicators. We demonstrate through Danish cases ranging from lot to city scale that the proposed framework can help inform decision-makers about the sustainability of Nature-Based Solutions for stormwater management. Despite difficulties in matching local indicators to SDG indicators, this first attempt at an assessment framework provides insight on which services of a project help to work towards the Sustainable Development Goals and, if used in the planning phase, could facilitate the design of projects that work focused and informed towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Analysis and prediction of eutrophication for advanced warning of the water quality concerns in Gaoyou Lake
Authors: Zhang Lei , Cheng Yu , Niu Yulong , Jiang Jiahu
Published: October 2019

This paper used the trophic level index (TLI) method combined with the relevant data from 2014 to 2017 to evaluate the water quality of Gaoyou Lake. Meanwhile, based on principal component analysis (PCA) and multiple linear regression (MLR) models on chlorophyll a (Chla), this research developed predictions and an early warning scheme for eutrophication in Gaoyou Lake. The results showed the following: 1. The TLI of Gaoyou Lake showed a significant increasing trend, and the lake was in the state of light to moderate eutrophy. 2. According to the PCA eigenvalues that were greater than 1, principal components (PCs) with a cumulative contribution rate of 76.04% were obtained, and a linear model was further obtained: CChla = 6.146 + 1.209 (Score 1) + 0.583 (Score 2) + 1.095 (Score 3). 3. The credibility of the early warning system reached 75%, which met the requirements of this study. This study provides a scientific basis for the control of eutrophication and improvement of water quality.
The Role of Adipokines in the Establishment and Progression of Head and Neck Neoplasms
Authors: Tzanavari Theodora , Tasoulas Jason , Vakaki Chrysoula , Mihailidou Chrysovalantou , Tsourouflis Gerasimos , Theocharis Stamatios
Published: October 2019

Adipokines constitute a family of protein factors secreted by white adipose tissue
(WAT), that regulate the functions of WAT and other sites. Leptin, adiponectin and resistin,
are the main adipokines present in serum and saliva, targeting several tissues and organs, including
vessels, muscles, liver and pancreas. Besides body mass regulation, adipokines affect
glucose homeostasis, inflammation, angiogenesis, cell proliferation and apoptosis, and other
crucial cell procedures. Their involvement in tumor formation and growth is well established
and deregulation of adipokine and adipokine receptors’ expression is observed in several malignancies
including those located in the head and neck region. Intracellular effects of adipokines
are mediated by a plethora of receptors that activate several signaling cascades including
Janus kinase/ Signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/ STAT pathway),
Phospatidylinositol kinase (PI3/ Akt/ mTOR) and Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor
(PPAR). The present review summarizes the current knowledge on the role of adipokines
family members in carcinogenesis of the head and neck region. The diagnostic and prognostic
significance of adipokines and their potential role as serum and saliva biomarkers are also discussed.
Recent Development in the Fabrication of Collagen Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering Applications: A Review
Authors: Busra Mohammad F. Mh , Lokanathan Yogeswaran
Published: October 2019

Tissue engineering focuses on developing biological substitutes to restore, maintain or improve
tissue functions. The three main components of its application are scaffold, cell and growthstimulating
signals. Scaffolds composed of biomaterials mainly function as the structural support for ex
vivo cells to attach and proliferate. They also provide physical, mechanical and biochemical cues for
the differentiation of cells before transferring to the in vivo site. Collagen has been long used in various
clinical applications, including drug delivery. The wide usage of collagen in the clinical field can be
attributed to its abundance in nature, biocompatibility, low antigenicity and biodegradability. In addition,
the high tensile strength and fibril-forming ability of collagen enable its fabrication into various
forms, such as sheet/membrane, sponge, hydrogel, beads, nanofibre and nanoparticle, and as a coating
material. The wide option of fabrication technology together with the excellent biological and physicochemical
characteristics of collagen has stimulated the use of collagen scaffolds in various tissue engineering
applications. This review describes the fabrication methods used to produce various forms of
scaffolds used in tissue engineering applications.
Plant Polyphenols as Neuroprotective Agents in Parkinson’s Disease Targeting Oxidative Stress
Authors: Hor Suet Lee , Teoh Seong Lin , Lim Wei Ling
Published: October 2019

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the human midbrain. Various ongoing research studies are competing to understand the pathology of PD and elucidate the mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration. Current pharmacological treatments primarily focused on improving dopamine metabolism in PD patients, despite the side effects of long-term usage. In recent years, it is recognized that oxidative stress-mediated pathways lead to neurodegeneration in the brain, which is associated with the pathophysiology of PD. The importance of oxidative stress is often less emphasized when developing potential therapeutic approaches. Natural plant antioxidants have been shown to mediate the oxidative stress-induced effects in PD, which has gained considerable attention in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Yet, clinical trials on natural polyphenol compounds are limited, restricting the potential use of these compounds as an alternative treatment for PD. Therefore, this review provides an understanding of the oxidative stress-induced effects in PD by elucidating the underlying events contributing to oxidative stress and explore the potential use of polyphenols in improving the oxidative status in PD. Preclinical findings have supported the potential of polyphenols in providing neuroprotection against oxidative stress-induced toxicity in PD. However, limiting factors, such as safety and bioavailability of polyphenols, warrant further investigations so as to make them the potential target for clinical applications in the treatment and management of PD.
Natural Occurring Compounds Inhibit Osteoclastogenesis via Targeting NFATc1-related Signaling Pathways
Authors: Wang Jun , Zheng Haishi , Ma Rui
Published: October 2019

Osteoclasts are originated from monocytic precursors of the hematopoietic lineage. Regulation
of gene expression by transcription factors is one of the major mechanisms for controlling cellular
functions. This is particularly important in the process of osteoclast production. As a main regulatory
transcriptional factor, nuclear factor of activated T-cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1) plays a significant
role in osteoclast differentiation. Although current studies focus on the regulatory effects of treatment
in the process of osteoclastogenesis, many of these drugs possess cytotoxicity which is harmful to
bone formation. Naturally occurring compounds with less or no side effects are most required in present
clinical and fundamental study. In this paper, we summarize several plant-derived compounds in
inhibiting osteoclastogenesis.
Structure-Bioactivity Relationship Study of Xanthene Derivatives: A Brief Review
Authors: Ghahsare Aref G. , Nazifi Zahra S. , Nazifi Seyed M.R.
Published: October 2019

:

Over the last decades, several heterocyclic derivatives compounds have been synthesized or
extracted from natural resources and have been tested for their pharmaceutical activities. Xanthene is one of
these heterocyclic derivatives. These compounds consist of an oxygen-containing central heterocyclic structure
with two more cyclic structures fused to the central cyclic compound. It has been shown that xanthane
derivatives are bioactive compounds with diverse activities such as anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-cancer, and
anti-inflammatory as well as therapeutic effects on diabetes and Alzheimer. The anti-cancer activity of such
compounds has been one of the main research fields in pharmaceutical chemistry. Due to this diverse
biological activity, xanthene core derivatives are still an attractive research field for both academia and
industry. This review addresses the current finding on the biological activities of xanthene derivatives and
discussed in detail some aspects of their structure-activity relationship (SAR).
Resonant BLDC Motor Drive System for Medical Applications
Authors: Vidhya C. , Ravikumar V. , Muralidharan S.
Published: October 2019

Aim:

The work aims to implement a soft switched high frequency ac link universal
power converter controlled BLDC motor for medical applications. The universal power converter
is an ac link converter, with the parallel combination of an inductor and a capacitor which offers
improved power factor, low power consumption and more efficiency.

Materials and Methods:

SVPWM technique is utilized as a control technique for the proposed
converter. AC link converter controlled with PDM technique requires an additional control procedure
or an algorithm for regulating the output power of the PDM converters. SVPWM technique
was adopted to turn ON and OFF the input and output switches in sequence to get the regulated
power at the output.

Results and Conclusion:

These types of inverters could be used in medical field as an alternate to
conventional inverters during power shut downs. The inverter proposed in this work has both the
capability to step up and step down the input voltage based on the load requirements. The soft
switched AC link inverter may be incorporated in a variety of applications including medial applications,
industrial needs, renewable energy resources, variable frequency drives and electric and
hybrid vehicles.
Anticancer Potential of Dietary Natural Products: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ahmad Rumana , Khan Mohsin A. , Srivastava A.N. , Gupta Anamika , Srivastava Aditi , Jafri Tanvir R. , Siddiqui Zainab , Chaubey Sunaina , Khan Tahmeena , Srivastava Arvind K.
Published: October 2019

Nature is a rich source of natural drug-like compounds with minimal side effects. Phytochemicals better known as “Natural Products” are found abundantly in a number of plants. Since time immemorial, spices have been widely used in Indian cuisine as flavoring and coloring agents. Most of these spices and condiments are derived from various biodiversity hotspots in India (which contribute 75% of global spice production) and form the crux of India’s multidiverse and multicultural cuisine. Apart from their aroma, flavor and taste, these spices and condiments are known to possess several medicinal properties also. Most of these spices are mentioned in the Ayurveda, the indigenous system of medicine. The antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiproliferative, antihypertensive and antidiabetic properties of several of these natural products are well documented in Ayurveda. These phytoconstituemts are known to act as functional immunoboosters, immunomodulators as well as anti-inflammatory agents. As anticancer agents, their mechanistic action involves cancer cell death via induction of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy. The present review provides a comprehensive and collective update on the potential of 66 commonly used spices as well as their bioactive constituents as anticancer agents. The review also provides an in-depth update of all major in vitro, in vivo, clinical and pharmacological studies done on these spices with special emphasis on the potential of these spices and their bioactive constituents as potential functional foods for prevention, treatment and management of cancer.
Clinical Value of PET/CT in Staging Melanoma and Potential New Radiotracers
Authors: Annunziata Salvatore , Laudicella Riccardo , Caobelli Federico , Pizzuto Daniele A. , Aimn Working Group Young
Published: October 2019

Background:

18F-FDG PET/CT has been suggested as an effective tool to stage patients affected by melanoma. In the latest years, new radiopharmaceuticals have been proposed and the use of hybrid PET/ceCT has emerged.

Objective:

To review recent evidence on the role of PET/CT in melanoma staging as well as its potential for future developments.

Methods:

A comprehensive computer literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE was carried out to find relevant published articles concerning the feasibility of PET/CT in patients with malignant melanoma.

Results:

Some recent studies about potentials and limitations of 18F-FDG PET/CT in staging melanoma, new PET radiotracers beyond 18F-FDG and application of hybrid PET/ceCT have been reviewed and discussed.

Conclusion:

PET/CT plays an important role in the staging workup of patients affected by melanoma. New radiopharmaceuticals and hybrid PET/ceCT could improve the potential of this diagnostic tool in this field.
Malignant Cutaneous Melanoma: Updates in PET Imaging
Authors: Laudicella Riccardo , Baratto Lucia , Minutoli Fabio , Baldari Sergio , Iagaru Andrei
Published: October 2019

Background:

Cutaneous malignant melanoma is a neoplasm whose incidence and mortality
are dramatically increasing. 18F-FDG PET/CT gained clinical acceptance over the past 2 decades in the
evaluation of several glucose-avid neoplasms, including malignant melanoma, particularly for the assessment
for distant metastases, recurrence and response to therapy.

Objective:

To describe the advancements of nuclear medicine for imaging melanoma with particular
attention to 18F-FDG-PET and its current state-of-the-art technical innovations.

Methods:

A comprehensive search strategy was used based on SCOPUS and PubMed databases. From
all studies published in English, we selected the articles that evaluated the technological insights of 18FFDG-
PET in the assessment of melanoma.

Results:

State-of-the-art silicon photomultipliers based detectors (“digital”) PET/CT scanners are
nowadays more common, showing technical innovations that may have beneficial implications for
patients with melanoma. Steady improvements in detectors design and architecture, as well as the implementation
of both software and hardware technology (i.e., TOF, point spread function, etc.), resulted
in significant improvements in PET image quality while reducing radiotracer dose and scanning time.

Conclusion:

Recently introduced digital PET detector technology in PET/CT and PET/MRI yields
higher intrinsic system sensitivity compared with the latest generation analog technology, enabling the
detection of very small lesions with potential impact on disease outcome.
In VitroEvaluation of Antifungal Activities by Permeation of Ru(III) Complexes Derived from Chitosan-Schiff Base Ligand
Authors: Vadivel T. , Dhamodaran M. , Kulathooran S. , Kavitha M. , Amirthaganesan K.
Published: October 2019

Background:

The transition metal complexes are derived from a natural biopolymer which is a very potent material in various research areas of study.

Objective:

This study aims to show the preparation of ruthenium(III) complexes from chitosan Schiff base ligand for effective application in antifungal studies.

Methods:

Chemical modification was carried out through a condensation reaction of chitosan with some aromatic aldehydes, which resulted in the formation of a bidentate Schiff base ligand. The Ru(III) complexes were prepared by complexation of ruthenium metal ion with bidentate ligands. The series of Ru(III) complexes were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope with Electron dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) analysis, Powder XRD. The biopolymer-based transition metal complexes have potential uses for their biological activities. The synthesized metal complexes were directed for antifungal study by the disc diffusion method.

Results:

The antifungal study results showed that the transition metal complexes have significant antifungal activities against some vital fungal pathogens such as Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium oxysporum, Penicillim chryogenum and Trigoderma veride.

Conclusion:

A chitosan biopolymer offers some peculiar features such as biodegradability, biocompatibility etc., which are favorable for green synthesis of transition metal complexes through complexation with bidentate ligands. These metal complexes possess good antifungal property due to their chelation effect on micro-organisms.
Flüt Eğitiminde Zihinsel Çalışma Yapmanın Motivasyon ve Tutum ve Görev Performansı Üzerine Etkisi
Authors: Üstün Emre
Published: October 2019

Çalgı eğitimi, bireyin
zihinsel ve motor yeteneklerini birleştirerek etkili biçimde çalgısının teknik
özelliklerini kavrama ve çalma işlemlerini gerçekleştirebilecek duruma
getirecektir. Çalgı
eğitiminde yer alan devinişsel hareketlerin oluşturulması, geliştirilmesi ve
düzeltilmesi zihinsel süreçlere bağlı olarak meydana gelmektedir
Dolayısıyla flüt eğitimi veren eğitimcilerinin planlamaları içerisinde
uygulayacakları adımlardan biriside öğrencilerin bilişsel ve zihinsel
becerisini geliştirmek olmalıdır. Bu anlamda öğrencilerin çalgılarına karşı motive olma
süreci, çalgılarına karşı tutumlarının gelişimi ve amaca uygun çalgı
performansının ortaya çıkarılması zihinsel çalışmalarla desteklenerek flüt
eğitiminde seviyenin daha yukarıya çıkarılmasını sağlayabilir.
Buradan yola çıkarak araştırmada motivasyon,
tutum ve görev performansı ölçeklerinden
faydalanılarak deneysel yöntem kullanılmıştır. Bu yöntemin “ön test-son test
deseni “ tercih edilmiştir. Çalışma NHBV Üniversitesi Müzik Bölümü flüt eğitimi alan 22 öğrenci ile
gerçekleştirilmiştir. Yapılan 10 haftalık deney sürecinin ardından grupların
puanlamaları t testi kullanılarak sonuçlara ulaşılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda
bireysel çalgı flüt eğitiminde zihinsel çalışma yapmanın motivasyon, tutum ve
görev performansı üzerinde pozitif etkiye sahip olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
2018 Yılı Ortaöğretim Kimya Dersi Öğretim Programı Kazanımlarının Orijinal Ve Yenilenmiş Bloom Taksonomisine Göre İncelenmesi
Authors: Ayyıldız Yıldızay , Aydın Abdullah , Nakiboğlu Canan
Published: October 2019

Bu
çalışmada, Milli Eğitim Bakanlığı Talim ve Terbiye Kurulu Başkanlığı’nın 2018
yılında yayınlamış olduğu Ortaöğretim Kimya Dersi Öğretim Programındaki
kazanımların Orijinal ve Yeniden Düzenlenmiş Bloom Taksonomilerine göre
analizleri yapılmıştır. 9., 10., 11. ve 12. sınıflara yönelik toplam 127
kazanımın bilişsel alan düzeyleri, bilgi boyutları ve bilişsel süreç
boyutlarına göre analizi; nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden doküman incelemesi
kullanılarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Yapılan analizler sonucunda öğretim
programındaki kazanımların ağırlıklı olarak bilişsel alanın kavrama (%60,63)
basamağında olduğu; analiz (%14,17), uygulama (%11,03) ve bilgi (%8,66)
basamağındaki kazanımların sayısının az olduğu; sentez (%3,15) ve değerlendirme
(%2,36) basamağındakilerin ise oldukça az olduğu belirlenmiştir. Kazanımların
bilişsel süreç boyutlarına göre analiz edilmesiyle; kazanımların ağırlıklı
olarak anlamak (%46,45) ve çözümlemek (%33,86) basamağında olduğu; uygulamak
(%8,66), hatırlamak (%6,3), değerlendirmek (%3,94) basamağında oldukça az
olduğu; yaratmak (%0,79) basamağında ise son derece az olduğu bulunmuştur.
Diğer yandan, kazanımların ağırlıklı olarak bilgi boyutunun kavramsal (%75,59)
basamağında bulunduğu, olgusal (%11,81) ve işlemsel (%8,66) basamağındaki
kazanımların oldukça az olduğu; üstbilişsel (%3,94) basamağındaki kazanımların ise
çok az olduğu belirlenmiştir. Bu bulgular ışığında, programdaki kazanımların yüksek
oranda alt düzey bilişsel alan basamaklarına yönelik olduğu sonucuna
ulaşılmıştır.