bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of Mitochondrial and Epigenetic Targets by Polyphenols-rich Extract from Araucaria angustifolia in Larynx Carcinoma
Authors: Branco Catia S. , Duong Angela , Machado Alencar K. , Scola Gustavo , Andreazza Ana C. , Salvador Mirian
Published: August 2018

Background:

Araucaria angustifolia extract (AAE) is a polyphenol-rich extract that has gained interest
as a natural anticancer agent. Recent work suggests that AAE induces oxidative damage and apoptosis through its
action on decreasing complex I activity of the mitochondrial Electron Transport Chain (ETC).

Aims and Methods:

In the present study, we aimed to further examine the specific targets by which AAE exerts proapoptotic
effects in HEp-2 cancer cells. Specifically, the effect of AAE on the: 1) levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase
was assessed by ELISA assay; 2) levels of mitochondrial ETC complexes, focusing on complex I at the gene transcript
and protein level relevant to ROS generation was evaluated by multiplex ELISA followed by qRT-PCR and
immunoblotting; 3) mitochondrial network distribution analysis was assessed by MitoTracker Red CMXRos; and 4)
chemical variations on DNA was evaluated by dot-blotting in HEp-2 cells.

Results:

Results demonstrated that AAE increased protein levels of PDH, switching energy metabolism to oxidative
metabolism. Protein expression levels of complex I and III were found decreased in AAE-treated HEp-2 cells.
Analyzing the subunits of complex I, changes in protein and gene transcript levels of NDUFS7 and NDUFV2 were
found. Mitochondria staining after AAE incubation revealed changes in the mitochondrial network distribution. AAE
was able to induce DNA hypomethylation and decreased DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 1 activity.

Conclusion:

Our data demonstrate for the first time that AAE alters expression of NDUFS7 and NDUFV2
mitochondrial subunits and induce epigenetic changes in HEp-2 cancer cells leading to a possible suppression of
oncogenes.
Ebola Therapeutic Study and Future Directions
Authors: Lu Da-Yong , Wu Hong-Ying , Yarla Nagendra S. , Lu Ting-Ren , Xu Bin , Jian-Ding
Published: August 2018

The constant Ebola epidemic outbreaks in Africa arisen in waves of panic
worldwide. There is a high mortality rate (30-70%) among the Ebola-infected people in virus-
stricken areas. Despite these horrors, the medical capabilities against this deadly viral
disease were provided by limited therapeutic agents/options. As a result, several patented
agents, biotherapies or prophylactic/therapeutic vaccines need to be reviving into the global
markets—including patents of small molecular chemicals, short sequences or oligomers of
DNA/RNA, linkages of chemicals with bio-molecules, herbal medicine and so on. In addition,
the possible mechanisms of action of these therapeutic options are underway. To promote
Ebola biomedical study, the multiple characters of Ebola infections—its origin, pathologic
progress, genomic changes, therapeutic context and economic considerations are outlined
in this review. Finally, a great difference can be expected after these types of efforts.
Sofosbuvir: Really Meets the Unmet Needs for Hepatitis C Treatment?
Authors: Chopra Deepti , Bhandari Bharti
Published: August 2018

:

Chronic hepatitis C remains a major public health concern with a prevalence of more than
1% worldwide. Of late, with the discovery of newer drugs, chronic HCV treatment has touched new
dimensions. The treatment has progressed from Interferons to Pegylated interferon (Peg IFN) based
therapy, with or without ribavirin to treatment with orally active Direct Acting Antivirals (DAA)
with Peg IFN and ribavirin and eventually to various combinations of DAA, without IFN.

:

Introduction of newer DAAs has transfigured the treatment of chronic HCV. Chronic HCV patients
with advanced liver disease, psychiatric condition, anemia or autoimmune diseases, not eligible for
Peg IFN based therapy have a ray of hope now. Amongst all DAAs, nucleoside inhibitors have been
the most promising agent.

:

Thus the present review focuses on Sofosbuvir, one of the most effective nucleoside inhibitors; in
terms of potency, resistance profile, activity against all genotypes of HCV and adverse effects. FDA
approved Sofobuvir for clinical use in 2013. Chemically, it is 2'-deoxy-2'-α-fluoro-β-Cmethyluridine-
5'-triphosphate; a phosphoramidate prodrug that is activated by enzyme present in
human liver. It is a highly potent inhibitor of HCV NS5B polymerase.

:

Efficacy of the Sofosbuvir has been established in various phase 2 and phase 3 clinical trials like
PROTON, ELECTRON, FUSION, POSITRON etc. Sofosbuvir has a good safety profile with few
mild to moderate adverse effects. Evidence reveals that sofosbuvir has substantial impact on the
treatment of HCV.
Evaluation of Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern and Distribution of coa Genes in Coagulase-negative S. aureus from Ahvaz, Iran
Authors: Shahmohammadi Saeed , Sheikh Ahmad Farajzadeh , Shahin Mojtaba , Mir Iman
Published: August 2018

Background:

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the important causes of clinical infections
that can be more destructive by its antibiotic resistant strains.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern and distribution of
mecA and coa genes in clinical isolates of S. aureus.

Methods:

Two hundred seventy-three specimens suspected to S. aureus were taken from hospitals
of Ahvaz, southwest of Iran. Isolates were identified by standard microbiologic tests and confirmed
by the molecular method. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out by disk diffusion
method. The presence of mecA and coa genes was determined by PCR method.

Results:

Of a total of 200 isolates which were tested for coagulase tube test, 143 (71.5%) showed
coagulase positive, and 57 (28.5%) showed a coagulase-negative reaction. Antibacterial susceptibility
pattern of 200 S. aureus isolates showed the highest and lowest susceptibility rate to linezolid
(98%) and ciprofloxacin (42%), respectively. The prevalence of methicillin-resistant S.
aureus (MRSA) by detection of mecA gene was estimated as 47.5 % (95/200), of which the rate of
MRSA in coagulase positive and negative isolates was 35% (50/143), and 65% (45/57), respectively.
Meanwhile, coa gene was detected in 100% of coagulase positive and 28.1% of coagulasenegative
isolates.

Conclusion:

The results of this study showed that the number of atypical CNSA in our area is
high. Since the coagulase test is an essential test for diagnosis of S. aureus, our findings regarding
the emergence of CNSA are a warning about the misdiagnosis and selection of appropriate treatment
approach for S. aureus isolates.
Human and Animal Fascioliasis in Iran: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Bahmaninejad P. , Abdi J. , Valizadeh R.
Published: August 2018

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of fascioliasis
in humans, cattle, sheep, and goats, done by a systematic review in Iran.

Methods:

Fifty articles were extracted including Iranian papers such as Google scholar,
Magiran, Iran Medex, SID, and Pubmed. Out of these, 21 articles were selected for
meta-analysis. Essential information for meta-analysis was extracted from papers and
archived in Excel software for calculating by statistical analysis. The variance of each
study was obtained using the binomial distribution. Heterogeneity of the studies was
surveyed using I2 index. Data were analyzed using a random effect model.

Results:

Of 21 collected papers, 1,275,506 samples from cow (507,152), sheep
(454,882), goat (207,925), and human (105,547) had been surveyed in Iran. Eight studies
were conducted on humans and 13 on animals. The prevalence rate obtained in humans
was 3% with a confidence interval (CI) of 95% (1%–7%). Prevalence rate obtained
in cows, sheep, and goats was 13% with CI of 95% (10%–16%). The highest
level of prevalence was reported from cities in the North in animals with a prevalence of
14%. The highest level of prevalence was reported from Gilan in humans with a prevalence
of 0.1%.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of the Fascioliasis in Iran has reduced in recent years, But
the importance of the disease has not reduced and there is a possibility of an epidemic.
Furthermore, in many cities of Iran, there is no study on the disease.
Bioinformatic Analysis Reveals Key Genes and Pathways in Aging Brain of Senescence-accelerated Mouse P8 (SAMP8)
Authors: Li Jiaqi , Zhou Yuzhi , Du Guanhua , Qin Xuemei , Gao Li
Published: August 2018

Background:

Aging is a complex process accompanied with the decline of the different
physiological functions. Numerous differentially expressed genes (DEGs) have been found in the aging
brain of senescence-accelerated mouse P8 (SAMP8), however, it was challenging to screen out the
crucial ones.

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the crucial genes and pathways in aging brain of SAMP8 mice,
which would be beneficial for understanding the pathogenesis of brain aging.

Methods:

Firstly, 430 genes that are differentially expressed in SAMP8 mice versus SAMR1 mice
were obtained from 9 gene expression studies, and gene-gene network was constructed. Clustering
analysis and topological analysis were used to single out the hub genes from this network. Secondly,
pathway enrichment analysis was utilized to identify the key pathways from the 430 DEGs, and the
DEGs in key pathways were considered as functional genes. Thirdly, the inner-network between hub
genes and functional genes was constructed, and the key genes were predicted. Parts of the key genes
were experimentally verified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and the associated transcription
factors (TFs) were predicted.

Results:

Our results revealed that 12 crucial genes might affect brain aging, including Trp53, Bcl2,
Tnf, Casp9, Fos, Il6, Ptgs2, Il1b, Bdnf, Cdkn1a, Pik3c3, Rps6ka1, among which Casp9, Fos, Ptgs2,
Cdkn1a, Pik3c3, and Rps6ka1 had been verified by qRT-PCR in 10-moth-old SAMP8 mice. Five
functional groups including mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, neurotrophin
signaling pathway, Hepatitis B, Alzheimer's disease and Oxytocin signaling pathway were significantly
changed during aging process in SAMP8 mice. Two key transcription factors of c-Fos and
C/EBPbeta were predicted by constructing a TF-target gene network.

Conclusion:

These putative genes and pathways are closely related to brain senescence and our results
would gain new insight into the pathogenesis of brain aging.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) for Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Peixoto Clayton , Grande Antonio Jose , Mallmann Mariana Bonotto , Nardi Antonio Egídio , Cardoso Adriana , Veras André Barciela
Published: August 2018

Background:

Depression is a mental disorder that affects a large part of the world's population.
DHEA is a hormone that has long been attributed to the ability to improve depressive symptoms. However,
few studies were conducted with depression individuals not resulting from other medical conditions.

Objective:

To investigate whether DHEA is more effective than placebo in the treatment of depressive
symptoms in subjects with depression not resulting from other psychiatric or medical comorbidities.

Methods:

An electronic search was carried out using the keywords Dehydroepiandrosterone (Mesh)
AND Depression (Mesh) in the following databases: Medical Literature databases Analysis and Retrieval
System Online (Medline), Excerpta Medical Database (EMBASE), Latin American and Caribbean
Health Sciences (LILACS) and the Cochrane Library through their website for relevant publications
until June 2018. Only randomized clinical trials were included. The critical appraisal of the articles
was performed using the Risk of Bias Tool from Cochrane Collaboration.

Results:

The meta-analysis applied in this review pointed to a significant effect in favor of treatment
with DHEA compared to placebo.

Conclusion:

DHEA may be one more effective alternative between the drugs used in the treatment of
depression.
Aluminium Adjuvants – A Nanomaterial used as Adjuvants in Human Vaccines for Decades
Authors: Danielsson Ravi , Sandberg Tove , Eriksson Håkan
Published: August 2018

Background:

Aluminium salts have been used for decades in vaccines as adjuvants to facilitate the adaptive immune response against co-administered antigens. Two types of aluminium adjuvant are mostly used, aluminium oxyhydroxide and aluminium hydroxyphosphate. Both types of aluminium adjuvant consist of nanoparticles that form loose, micrometre sized aggregates at circumneutral pH.

Aluminium adjuvants constitute a well-documented example of administration of nanomaterials to humans with infrequent side effects and a safety record generally regarded as excellent. However, despite its prolonged use in human and veterinary medicine, the mechanisms behind the enhanced response and the immune stimulatory effect are still by and large unknown.

Methods:

The present paper reviews existing ideas regarding the immunostimulatory effects of aluminium adjuvants, with a focus on the induction of an inflammatory response by cellular stress. Reviewed information was obtained from peer-reviewed scientific papers published in 1988 to date with one exception, a paper published 1931.

Results:

Cellular stress causes extra cellular signalling of Danger Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs) and upon phagocytosis of aluminium adjuvants the cells need to manage the ingested particles.

Conclusion:

A persistent intracellular accumulation of aluminium adjuvants will be a solid depository of sparingly soluble aluminium salts maintaining a constant concentration of Al3+ions in the cytoplasm and this will affect multiple biochemical processes. The cell will be under constant stress and DAMP signalling will occur and we would like to suggest the maintenance of a constant concentration Al3+ions in the cytoplasm as a general underlying feature of the immune stimulation properties of aluminium adjuvants.
Effect oF β-Alanine on The Preparation of 4-Ethoxy-Cinnamic Acid
Authors: Hoai N. T. , Ngoc Tran Thi Yen , Nam Nguyen Dang , Thuy Tran Thu , Trang Cao Thi Thu , Hai Nguyen Duy , Nguyen Truong Khoi
Published: August 2018

Objective:

Cinnamic acid and its derivatives have a numerous potential applications in many different fields such as pharmacy, organic “building blocks”, and corrosion inhibitors.

Method:

It is well-known that Verley-Doebner modification is a high efficient method for the preparation of cinnamic acid derivaties, especially with the compounds containing electron-donating subtituents at para position in aromatic ring. In this paper, 4-ethoxy-cinnamic acid was synthesized according to Verley-Doebner reaction with the use of pyrine acting as catalyst and solvent. The effect of the β-alanine concentration on the conversion of the starting material of 4-ethoxy-benzaldehyde was thoroughly investigated using high performance liquid chromatography. The results showed that consuming of 8% of β-alanine would convert 100% of 4-ethoxy-benzaldehyde to 4-ethoxy-cinnamic acid.

Result:

The structure of the obtained 4-ethoxy-cinnamic acid was also confirmed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and Gas chromatography-Mass spectroscopy.

Cinnamic acid and its derivatives have numerous potential applications in many different fields such as pharmacy, organic “building blocks”, and corrosion inhibitors. It is well-known that Verley-Doebner modification is a high efficient method for the preparation of cinnamic acid derivaties, especially with the compounds containing electron-donating subtituents at para position in aromatic ring. In this paper, 4-ethoxy-cinnamic acid was synthesized according to Verley-Doebner reaction with the use of pyrine acting as catalyst and solvent. The effect of the β-alanine concentration on the conversion of the starting material of 4-ethoxy-benzaldehyde was thoroughly investigated using high performance liquid chromatography. The results showed that consuming 8% of β-alanine would convert 100% of 4-ethoxy-benzaldehyde to 4-ethoxy-cinnamic acid. The structure of the obtained 4-ethoxy-cinnamic acid was also confirmed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and Gas chromatography-Mass spectroscopy.
Corrosion Inhibition of Mild Steel in 1.0 M HCl Solution by Anhydrous Tricalcium Phosphate
Authors: Chafki L. , Rifi E.H. , Touir R. , Touhami M. Ebn , Hatim Z.
Published: August 2018

Objective:

In this study, electrochemical measurements were used to characterize Anhydrous Tricalcium Phosphate (ATP) as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1.0 M HCl.

Method:

The potentiodynamic polarization curves indicated that the ATP reacts as an anodic type inhibitor. In addition, it has been found that the electrochemical impedance confirms the inhibitor character of ATP obtained by the potentiodynamic polarization curves where the inhibition efficiency increases by its concentration to reach a maximum of 93.79 % at 10-4M. The temperature solution influence indicated that the corrosion rate increases with temperature while the inhibitor acts actively. Thermodynamic adsorption and activation parameters indicated that the ATP acts by physical adsorption on the metallic surface with an endothermic process of metal dissolution.

Result:

Additionally, it was found that the adsorption of ATP molecules obeyed to the Langmuir isotherm. Surface analyses via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the morphology of mild steel before and after immersion in 1.0 M HCl solution without and with 10-4M of ATP. It is revealed that the ATP  acted by the formation of a protective layer on the mild steel.
Behavior of High Strength Hybrid Reinforced Concrete Deep Beams under Monotonic and Repeated Loading
Authors: Hassan Sawsan Akram , Mhebs Ansam Hassan
Published: August 2018

Introduction:

This study presents the experimental and analytical investigation of the behavior of high strength hybrid reinforced concrete deep beams under monotonic and repeated two-point load. The idea of hybrid in this work is different. Two types of concrete were used in beam but not in cross-section. The first type was the Fibrous High Strength Concrete (FHSC) at shear spans for enhancing shear capacity against cracking due to diagonal strut failure (by adding Steel Fiber (SF) in that regions), while the second type was the Conventional High Strength Concrete (CHSC) at the mid-portion between the two strengthened shear spans.

Methods:

The experimental work included the casting and testing of ten deep beams. Five among the beams were tested under monotonic loading (control beams) and other beams were tested under repeated loading at the level of 75% of ultimate load of control beams. The effect of some selected parameters as the type of load, the hybrid and non-hybrid beams, the compressive strength of concrete (fʹc) (normal and high) and the amount of web reinforcement (ρw) were studied in terms of crack patterns, ultimate load and load versus midspan deflection.

Results and Conclusion:

From the experimental test results, when beam cast with fibrous with SF of 1% concrete along entire length, the ultimate load of 10.96% increased as compared with hybrid beam. And it was observed to increase as much as 32.78% as compared with beam cast from conventional high strength concrete under monotonic loading. Under repeated loading of 75% control ultimate load, the ultimate load for beam cast with fibrous concrete along entire length increased as much as 15.32% as compared with hybrid beam. And it was seen to increase 36.17% as compared with the beam cast from conventional high strength concrete. The percentage increase in ultimate load of hybrid (SF ratio 1%) deep beam cast with high strength concrete became 97.3% as compared with the identical beam cast with normal strength concrete under monotonic loading and (98.21%) under repeated loading (load 75% control beam load). The percentage increase as ultimate load for hybrid beam cast with SF ratio 1% was 9.62% as compared with hybrid beam with SF ratio 0%. As the web reinforcement increased from 0 to 0.004 and from 0 to 0.006, the percentage increased in the ultimate load as 28.07% and 57.89%, under monotonic loading as 26.14% and 59.09%, under repeated loading.

Then, Strut and Tie model (STM) procedures were used to analyze the experimentally tested hybrid deep beams under monotonic loading of the present investigation. Comparison of experimental results was made with corresponding predicted values using the STM procedure presented of ACI 318R-14 Code and with other procedures
The Association between Ponticulus Posticus and Dental Agenesis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Putrino Alessandra , Leonardi Rosa Maria , Barbato Ersilia , Galluccio Gabriella
Published: August 2018

Objective:

Neural tube defects may increase the risk of an abnormal development of skull, vertebral column and teeth formation, including dental agenesis in non syndromic patients. The association between the presence of a congenital Dental Agenesis (DA) and the Atlantooccipital Ligament (AOL) calcification, known as “Ponticulus Posticus” (PP), as possible links can be investigated.

Design:

After a systematic review of the scientific literature on this topic, two independent examiners assessed the AOL calcification in lateral cephalograms of 350 non syndromic patients(7-21 years old). The results were compared with a control group (non syndromic patients, without congenital missing teeth).

Results:

The 16.3% of the population studied by cephalometric analysis revealed a prevalence rate of PP (both complete and partial) with a slight male predominance is seen, not statistically significant (χ square test = 0.09; p= 0.76). In both sexes complete PP is more observed. In the patients affected by DA the frequency of PP is the 66.6% (both complete than partial). The χ square test with Yates correction showed a significative difference(χ= 66.20; p value= 0.00) between PP in patients with DA compared to not affected by DA.

Conclusions:

PP is not an uncommon anomaly. Since orofacial pain like migraine and other symptoms are often associated to PP, during routine radiographic examination, if detected, it should be documented in patients’ health record and with symptoms, further investigation should be sought for. These findings encourage to think there’s an association between DA in non syndromic patients and neuro-crestal cells defects.
The Periodontium as a Potential Cause of Orofacial Pain: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Miranda-Rius Jaume , Brunet-Llobet Lluís , Lahor-Soler Eduard
Published: August 2018

Introduction:

Orofacial pain of periodontal origin has a wide range of causes, and its high prevalence and negative effect on patients' quality of life make intervention mandatory. This review provides a periodontological overview of the field of orofacial pain, focusing on the entities which involve the periodontal tissues and may be the cause of this pain or discomfort.

Methods:

The study comprised a literature search of these pathologies conducted in the MEDLINE/PubMed Database. Acute infectious entities such as gingival and periodontal abscesses are emergencies that require a rapid response. Periodontitis associated with endodontic processes, necrotizing periodontal disorders, desquamative gingivitis, gingival recession, and mucogingival herpetic lesions, cause mild to severe pain due to tissue destruction and loss. Other lesions that lead to periodontal discomfort include gingival enlargement and periodontal ligament strains associated with occlusal trauma, parafunctional habit and the impaction of food or foreign bodies.

Conclusion:

A range of therapeutic, pharmacological and surgical alternatives are available for the management of these injuries. However, the wide variety of causes of orofacial pain or periodontal discomfort may confuse the clinician during diagnosis and may lead to the wrong choice of treatment.
Peri-Implant Bone Loss at Implants Placed in Preserved Alveolar Bone Versus Implants Placed in Native Bone: A Retrospective Radiographic Study
Authors: Quoc Johann Bui , Vang Aurélie , Evrard Laurence
Published: August 2018

Objectives:

The aim of our study was to compare peri-implant bone loss at implants placed in alveolar sockets filled with a particulate allogenous bone graft (DFDBA 300-500 µm) and platelet concentrates versus at implants placed in the native bone.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective clinical study was performed. A total of 84 patients were included with 247 implants for the restoration of mono and pluri-radicular teeth: 169 implants in native bone and 78 in socket-grafted bone. The peri-implant bone loss was measured by 2 independent operators at 6 and 12 months.

Results:

The overall mesial and distal peri-implant bone losses were 0.9 ± 0.7 mm and 0.9 ± 0.8 mm at 6 months, respectively, and 1 ± 0.65 mm and 1.2 ± 0.9 mm at 12 months, respectively. In the tested group, the bone loss was 0.8 ± 0.8 mm at 6 months and 1.2 ± 0.9 mm at 12 months. In the control group, the bone loss was 1.0 ± 0.7 mm at 6 months and 0.95 ± 0.6 mm at 12 months. There were no statistically significant differences in bone loss between the two groups. Taking both groups together, there were no statistically significant difference in bone loss between patients with or without histories of periodontitis, but there was a statistically significant difference in bone loss between the mandible and maxilla as well as between unitary and total edentations and between partially and total edentulous patients.

Conclusion:

At 6 and 12 months, the peri-implant bone loss in sockets preserved with DFDBA and platelet concentrates was similar to the peri-implant bone loss in native bone.
Natural and Anthropogenic Impacts on Forest Structure: A Case Study of Uttarakhand State
Authors: Chauhan Jaspal S. , Gautam Alok S. , Negi R.S.
Published: August 2018

Forests are among the most important natural resources in Uttarakhand as they occupy 71% of the geographic area and contribute a good share in state economy. They are rich repositories of biodiversity and are providers of ecosystem goods and services to both regional and global community. People are dependent on forests for fuel wood, grass and other biomass. But unfortunately recent trend of data shows a huge degradation of forestland due to natural and anthropogenic activities. Variations in climatic condition and natural disasters are triggering rate of degradation of forests in Uttarakhand. The present paper reviews the status of forest in Uttarakhand and discusses the major natural and anthropogenic factors responsible for its degradation.
Greenhouse Gas Emission, Rainfall and Crop Production Over North-Western India
Authors: Kumar Vinay , Jana Sudip , Bhardwaj Amit , Deepa R. , Sahu Saroj Kumar , Pradhan P. K. , Sirdas Sevinc A.
Published: August 2018

Background:

This study is based on datasets acquired from multi sources e.g. rain-gauges, satellite, reanalysis and coupled model for the region of Northwestern India. The influence of rainfall on crop production is obvious and direct. With the climate change and global warming, greenhouse gases are also showing an adverse impact on crop production. Greenhouse gases (e.g. CO2, NO2 and CH4) have shown an increasing trend over Northwestern Indian region. In recent years, rainfall has also shown an increasing trend over Northwestern India, while the production of rice and maize are reducing over the region. From eight selected sites, over Northwestern India, where rice and maize productions have reduced by 40%, with an increase in CO2, NO2 and CH4 gas emission by 5% from 1998 to 2011.

Results:

The correlation from one year to another between rainfall, gas emission and crop production was not very robust throughout the study period, but seemed to be stronger for some years than others.

Conclusion:

Such trends and crop yield are attributed to rainfall, greenhouse gas emissions and to the climate variability.
Nontypable Haemophilus influenzae Septicemia and Urinary Tract Infection Associated with Renal Stone Disease
Authors: Stærk Marianne , Tolouee Sara A. , Christensen Jens J.
Published: August 2018

Introduction:

Haemophilus influenzae commonly causes upper respiratory tract infections and has only rarely been reported etiology of urinary tract infections. Since the introduction of the Haemophilus influenzae b (Hib) vaccine, non-typable haemophilus species now cause the majority of invasive disease in Europe.

Case Report:

We report a case of an adult man with non-typable Haemophilus influenzae septicemia, urinary tract infection and bilateral renal stone disease. The patient presented with right sided flank pain and a CT scan showed bilateral renal stones and a right sided ureteral stone causing obstruction.

Results and Discussion:

Haemophilus influenzae was identified in blood and urine and despite a tendency of increasing antibiotic resistance among Haemophilus influenzae, our strain was susceptible to all antibiotics tested. Treatment consisted of 3 days of intravenous cefuroxime, insertion of a right sided JJ ureteric stent and 5 days of peroral ciprofloxacin after discharge. Physicians and microbiologists should be aware of Haemophilus influenzae as a possible urinary tract pathogen, especially when urinary tract abnormalities are present, and take the risk of antibiotic resistance into consideration at initial treatment.
Detection of Plasmid-Mediated qnr Genes Among the Clinical Quinolone-Resistant Escherichia coli Strains Isolated in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Ranjbar Reza , Tolon Sajjad S. , Sami Mehrdad , Golmohammadi Reza
Published: August 2018

Background:

Escherichia coliis one of the most important bacterial agents to cause urinary tract infections. Inappropriate and unnecessary administration of antibiotics has led to an increase in the appearance of multidrug-resistantE. coliisolates, limiting treatment options. The increase in a number of resistant strains of bacteria is a major concern of health authorities worldwide.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine the presence of theqnrgenes amongE. coliisolated from UTIs of patients in Baqiyatallah hospital in Tehran province, Iran.

Method:

Clinical urine samples of patients with suspected urinary tract infection were collected by standard methods in sterile disposable containers. After analysis of urine, microscopic observations and culture analysis, the bacterial genome was extracted by boiling method. PCR for detection ofqnrgenes includingqnrA,qnrBandqnrSwas done by specific primers, then PCR products were run using gel electrophoresis and visualized by gel documentation system.

Results:

In the present study among the 95 isolates, 60 strains were resistant to nalidixic acid. PCR showed that 92 strains were positive forqnrS. TheqnrAandqnrBgenes were not found among the clinical isolates.

Conclusion:

Our finding indicates a high level of resistance against nalidixic acid amongE. coliisolates recovered from the patients with UTI. Also, the high frequency ofqnrSimposes the importance of survey of molecular and genetic analysis of mechanisms of quinolone resistance inE. colistrains.
A Treatment-Based Algorithm for the Management of Type-II SLAP Tears
Authors: Johannsen Adam M. , Costouros John G.
Published: August 2018

Background:

The management of Type-II superior labral tears (SLAP) of the shoulder remains a controversial topic. Treatment ranges from non-operative management to surgical management including SLAP repair, biceps tenotomy, and biceps tenodesis. An optimal treatment algorithm has yet to reach universal acceptance.

Objective:

The goal of this paper was to provide a treatment algorithm for the management of Type-II SLAP tears based on current literature and expert opinion.

Method:

Current literature was reviewed and expert opinion was reported to develop a comprehensive treatment protocol for patients based on age, activity level, and pathology.

Results:

Operative management of type-II SLAP tears yields good to excellent outcomes when proper indications are followed. Biceps tenodesis may produce more reliable pain relief and functional improvement when compared to primary SLAP repair in patients over the age of 40.

Conclusion:

When non-operative management of Type-II SLAP tears fails, operative management yields good to excellent outcomes in most patients. Primary SLAP repair should be performed in patients under the age of 40 with no evidence of proximal biceps pathology, while biceps tenodesis can provide consistent pain relief and return to activity in patients over the age of 40 or with significant proximal biceps pathology. Tenotomy should be reserved for elderly or low demand individuals.
MR Imaging of SLAP Lesions
Authors: Boutin Robert D. , Marder Richard A.
Published: August 2018

Background:

SLAP lesions of the shoulder are challenging to diagnose by clinical means alone. Interpretation of MR images requires knowledge of the normal appearance of the labrum, its anatomical variants, and the characteristic patterns of SLAP lesions. In general, high signal extending anterior and posterior to the biceps anchor is the hallmark of SLAP lesions. Common diagnostic criteria for a SLAP lesion by MR or MR arthrography include the following: presence of a laterally curved, high signal intensity in the labrum on a coronal image, multiple or branching lines of high signal intensity in the superior labrum on a coronal image, full-thickness detachment with irregularly marginated high signal intensity and/or separation >2 mm on conventional MRI or 3 mm on MR arthrography between the labrum and glenoid on a coronal image, and a paralabral cyst extending from the superior labrum.

Methods:

MR diagnosis of SLAP tears may be improved with provocative maneuvers, such as longitudinal traction of the arm or positioning of the shoulder in abduction and external rotation during imaging. The use of intra-articular contrast distends the joint similar to what occurs during arthroscopy and forced diffusion under the labrum may improve the ability to detect SLAP lesions that might not be seen with standard MR. Improved diagnostic accuracy for SLAP tears is seen with 3-T compared with 1.5-T MR imaging, with or without intra-articular contrast material.

Conclusion:

Regardless of MR findings, however, physicians should be cautious when recommending surgery in the patient with a vague clinical picture. The patient’s history, physical exam, and imaging evaluation all should be considered together in making the decision to proceed with surgery.
SLAP lesions, An Opinion Piece
Authors: Schrøder Cecilie P.
Published: August 2018

SLAP lesions were first classified by Snyder in 1990. Results of treatment have been controversial without clear consensus. All have agreed that prospective studies would be useful. We conducted such a study between 2008 to 2114 that randomized treatment between sham surgery, biceps tenodesis and labral repair. No significant differences in results between the groups were found. Crossover between groups was only possible from the sham surgery group and this may introduce some degree of bias. However, the six month outcomes between all three groups before any crossover were statistically identical. Our results also do not favor biceps tenodesis versus SLAP repair when surgery is performed. Based on these results we have narrowed our indications for SLAP lesion surgery. We still treat some SLAP lesions surgically and individualize our treatment in each such cases. Most SLAP lesion patients, however, are ultimately treated non-operatively.
A Review of the Parasites of Deep-Water Fishes from Macaronesian Islands, North-East Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Costa Graça , Costa Luísa , Santos Maria João , Melo-Moreira E.
Published: August 2018

The deep-water fish fauna of Macaronesian islands is currently estimated at a total of 1029 different fish species, but records of both ecto- and endoparasites are from only about 30 of those species. This fact presents an exciting field of research for scientists interested in fish parasitology, by exploring the structure of parasite communities and their connections with ecological and oceanographic variables. Research on the effect of climatic changes on the parasite faunas, on the occurrence of fish parasites in man and its impact on human health, has not been carried out to date. The present review aims to collate our present knowledge about the parasites of deep-water fishes of Macaronesia, and to suggest directions for future research on the parasites of fishes from the deepwater realm. A checklist of the parasites infecting the deep-water fishes from this region is included.
Child-rearing Support Provided by Public Health Nurses to People with Mental Illness: Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Kageyama Masako , Yokoyama Keiko
Published: August 2018

Background:

The growing rates of deinstitutionalization in Japan have resulted in an increase in the number of children being raised by parents with mental illness. Given this situation, public health nurses working for local governments play an important role.

Objective:

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to describe the child-rearing support provided by public health nurses to parents with mental illness.

Methods:

Seven nurses identified 28 cases of parents with mental illness. Descriptions of the goals and details of the appropriate nursing support were extracted from transcripts, coded, and categorized.

Results:

Parents with mental illness diagnosed with addiction and personality disorders were more difficult to support than those diagnosed with mood disorders or schizophrenia. Public health nurses supported parents with mental illness with the aim of achieving goals such as “building continuous consultative relationships,” “ensuring living conditions had a minimum level of safety and comfort,” “parents playing their roles,” “parents and children living together in the community,” and “fostering children’s growth.” While they provided support by “assessing their relationships with parents,” “building consultative relationships with parents,” “assessing parents’ illnesses/disorders and supporting,” “assessing child-rearing abilities and supporting,” and “cooperating with related agencies,” they tended to focus on the growth of the children rather than the recovery of parents.

Conclusion:

Consultative relationships were the beginning of support, as well as the most important and difficult skill. Public health nurses need to provide support for the recovery of parents with mental illness and learn about personality disorders and addiction.
A Study of Smart Grid Effects on Electric Vehicle Management Considering the Change of the Power Capacity Mix
Authors: Park Chankook
Published: August 2018

Background:

To understand the Electric Vehicle (EV) management effects deeply using Smart Grids (SGs) in the electric power sector, it is necessary to examine supply specifics such as the generation mix, generation costs, and CO2 emissions as well as the demand sector including peak load. This study attempts to comprehensively examine the changes in power supply and demand their effects in accordance with the degree of SG utilization, based on a scenario for the projection of EV roll-out in South Korea.

Objectives:

This study considers the change of the generation capacity mix as well as the change of power generation mix using the WASP model for the analysis of SG effects on EV management. In the scenario of the Korean government's EV deployment, this study has confirmed how electric power demand changes according to the degree of smart grid utilization. In addition, the WASP model has been used to examine not only the power generation mix but also the change in the installed capacity.

Result:

As a result, if the share of cost-effective and clean power generation sources is below the minimum load, the unit cost and CO2 emission could not be reduced together even though SGs are used to manage EVs.

Conclusion:

Increasing the share of power generation from clean energy sources to a level higher than that of the minimum load will allow EVs to become an eco-friendly means of transportation.
A Study on the Merits for Coordinated Use of Ramp Metering and Variable Speed Limit Traffic Control Systems
Authors: Tafti Mehdi Fallah
Published: August 2018

Aim:

The aim of this research was to investigate the merits for further improvements of traffic operation on freeways and expressways through coordinated use of Ramp Metering and Variable Speed limit (VSL) control systems.

Methods:

In this research, the widely used ALINEA Ramp Metering strategy was coordinated with a rule-based VSL strategy so that the total flow entered from the upstream freeway and entry ramp is maintained below the merge downstream capacity. The developed algorithm was then examined on a freeway network comprising two merge and one diverge sections, using VISSIM microscopic simulation model. The performance of the simulated network was examined under three scenarios namely, No-control, Ramp Metering only and Ramp Metering plus VSL controls. The network performance under each scenario was then assessed and compared using three measures of performance namely, average travel time, overall delay and freeway throughput. The ANOVA test was used to analyze and compare the impacts of specified scenarios.

Results:

The results indicated that the best performance is achieved under coordinated Ramp Metering plus VSL scenario as it produced a significantly better performance in comparison with the other two scenarios.

Conclusion:

The results can be attributed to the synergistic effects of coordinated and integrated use of these control systems on the freeway network and therefore, coordination of such systems is recommended.
Retraction Note: Non-operating Urban Infrastructure Project Management Maturity Model on Agent Construction Based on the Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Shanshan Qu
Published: August 2018

The Publisher and Editor have retracted this article [1] in accordance with good ethical practices. After thorough investigations
we believe that the peer review process was compromised. The article was published online on 19/08/2015.
The Relation of Drowning Rescue Methods with the Rescuer in Cinema
Authors: Avramidis Stathis , Patrinos Stavros
Published: August 2018

Objective:

The use of various rescue methods for coping with drowning as a subject of research is scarce.

Method:

With a chi-square statistical analysis in a criterion/convenient sample of film scenes (n=430), it was aimed to reveal how the various rescue methods relate to the rescuer and other related sub-variables. Results confirm that cinematography indeed passes several right and wrong hidden messages to their viewers. It was also found that although the rescue type was not related with the rescuer’s age (p=0.836), body composition (p=0.437) and ethnicity (p=0.849), it was related with the type of the rescuer (if any) that attempted to save the drowning victim (p<0.001;i.e., amateur or professional), the rescuer’s gender (p=0.027) and clothing (p=0.019) and the victim’s early approach (p<0.001).

Result:

To the degree that our findings correspond with reality, film scenes may be used as means of water safety education in lifesaving and lifeguard classes.
The Effect of Waves on the Performance of Five Different Swimming Strokes
Authors: Kjendlie Per-Ludvik , Pedersen Tommy , Stallman Robert
Published: August 2018

Objective:

Little is known about the transfer of swimming skills from flat, calm conditions to outdoor, unsteady conditions. The aim of the present study was to investigate the velocity decrement of several life-saving, self-rescue and rescue related strokes when introducing waves of different heights.

Methods:

Thirty-three subjects swam twelve 25m sprints each, in a randomized order, in a 3x4 (wave height x stroke) design. The wave heights were flat, medium (ca 20 cm) or large (ca 40 cm), in a specially designed wave-simulating pool. The strokes studied were front crawl, head-up crawl, back crawl and breaststroke. A subgroup swam front crawl, head-up crawl and head-up crawl with fins. A repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant effect of stroke, F(3,23)=108 (p<0.001), showing that these four strokes have different levels of performance; and wave height F(2,24)=87 (p<0.001), showing that introducing waves reduced velocity, but there was no interaction effect. The fastest stroke in flat water was not surprisingly, front crawl, followed by head-up crawl, back crawl and breaststroke. When introducing medium or large waves, the order of strokes from fastest to slowest was identical to flat-water conditions. The average velocity decrement when introducing medium and large waves was 3% and 7% respectively. For the subgroup swimming with fins, this was the fastest stroke, followed by front crawl, and head-up crawl. This order did not change when introducing waves, and the velocity decrement was 4 and 2% for medium and large waves respectively (not significantly different from other strokes).

Result:

The conclusion is that the rank order of strokes does not change when introducing waves and that no stroke seems to perform relatively better in unsteady water compared to flat water. Other aspects than performance and velocity should be considered when choosing strokes for swimming in waves, these are discussed in the paper.
MicroRNAs in Preeclampsia
Authors: Skalis Georgios , Katsi Vasiliki , Miliou Antigoni , Georgiopoulos Georgios , Papazachou Ourania , Vamvakou Georgia , Nihoyannopoulos Petros , Tousoulis Dimitrios , Makris Thomas
Published: August 2018

Preeclampsia (PE) continues to represent a worldwide problem and challenge for both clinicians
and laboratory-based doctors. Despite many efforts, the knowledge acquired regarding its
pathogenesis and pathophysiology does not allow us to treat it efficiently. It is not possible to arrest its
progressive nature, and the available therapies are limited to symptomatic treatment. Furthermore,
both the diagnosis and prognosis are frequently uncertain, whilst the ability to predict its occurrence is
very limited. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs discovered two decades ago, and present great
interest given their ability to regulate almost every aspect of the cell function. A lot of evidence regarding
the role of miRNAs in pre-eclampsia has been accumulated in the last 10 years. Differentially
expressed miRNAs are characteristic of both mild and severe PE. In many cases they target signaling
pathway-related genes that result in altered processes which are directly involved in PE. Immune system,
angiogenesis and trophoblast proliferation and invasion, all fundamental aspects of placentation,
are controlled in various degrees by miRNAs which are up- or downregulated. Finally, miRNAs represent
a potential therapeutic target and a diagnostic tool.
Pallister-Killian Syndrome: A Case Study
Authors: Yahya İbaa W.f. , Alezzi Jalil İbrahim , Akbulut Hikmet , Peru Harun
Published: August 2018

Abstract:

Pallister-Killian syndrome
(PKS) is an extremely rare medical condition characterized by tetrasomy of P
arm in 12th chromosome Individuals with this condition have also
isochromosomic mosaicism. Pigmentation disorders mental retardation, seizures
and hypotonia are common features of the syndrome. Anatomic malformation such
as extremity deformities, short neck, frontal bossing, cardiac and renal
pathologies are hallmark of clinical presentation in PKS. Here, we present a
two-month-old boy with typical case of PKS, and would like to increase
attention to Pallister-Killian Syndrome.
Registro del ciempiés Scolopendra polymorpha Wood, 1861 (Chilopoda: Scolopendromorpha: Scolopendridae) en la Isla María Cleofas, Océano Pacifico de México
Authors: Flores-Guerrero Ubaldo Sebastián , Huerta de la Barrea Ismael Eduardo , Cupul-Magaña Fabio Germán
Published: August 2018

Durante una visita a la Isla María Cleofas, en el archipiélago de las Islas Marías, ubicado en la desembocadura del Golfo de California, México, se recolectaron tres especímenes del ciempiés tigre Scolopendra polymorpha Wood, 1861 (ejemplares de longitud: 73 mm, 91 mm y 125 mm). Hasta donde sabemos, estos ejemplares representan el primer registro confirmado de la especie para la Isla María Cleofas. Probablemente, el ciempiés tigre y la fauna de ciempiés en general de la Isla María Cleofas provienen de áreas continentales adyacentes.