bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pituitary macroadenoma: Accuracy of apparent diffusion coefficient magnetic resonance imaging in grading tumor aggressiveness
Authors: Doai Mariko , Tonami Hisao , Matoba Munetaka , Tachibana Osamu , Iizuka Hideaki , Nakada Satoko , Yamada Sohuske
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of apparent diffusion coefficient magnetic resonance imaging in grading tumor aggressiveness using histogram apparent diffusion coefficient values.

Materials and methods

Eighteen patients with surgically proved pituitary macroadenomas were included in this study. Diffusion-weighted imaging with single-shot echo-planar sequence at 3-T with a 32-channel head coil was performed with b values of 0 and 1000 s/mm2. Calculated apparent diffusion coefficient maps were generated, and a 3-D volume of interest was placed on the tumor while superimposing contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance images. All apparent diffusion coefficient values within the volume of interest were used to compute the average apparent diffusion coefficient of the tumor. The apparent diffusion coefficient values were binned to construct the apparent diffusion coefficient histogram. Using the histogram, the mean, percentiles, skewness, and kurtosis of the apparent diffusion coefficient of the entire tumor were computed. Apparent diffusion coefficient histogram parameters were compared with the MIB-1 index, invasiveness, and recurrence for grading tumor aggressiveness of pituitary adenomas.

Results

The skewness of the apparent diffusion coefficient histogram only showed significant differences among MIB-1 indices ( p = 0.030). All apparent diffusion coefficient histogram parameters showed no significant differences between negative and positive invasion. The skewness and kurtosis of the apparent diffusion coefficient histogram showed significant differences between positive and negative recurrence (skewness p = 0.011, kurtosis p = 0.011). Receiver-operating characteristics analysis between positive and negative recurrence showed that both skewness and kurtosis of the apparent diffusion coefficient achieved area under the curve at 0.967.

Conclusion

Skewness and kurtosis of the apparent diffusion coefficient histogram were the predictive parameters for assessing tumor proliferative potential and recurrence of pituitary adenomas.
Retreatment with obinutuzumab: An addition to the therapeutic landscape of chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Khurana Sharad , Ahmed Salman , Alegria Victoria R , Aulakh Sonikpreet , Ailawadhi Meghna , Singh Anshika , Chanan-Khan Asher , Ailawadhi Sikander
Published: January 2019

Obinutuzumab is used for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. So far there are no data of using this for retreatment in patients who have received it previously. We introduced obinutuzumab for the retreatment in a chronic lymphocytic leukemia patient, who had first achieved partial remission with it and eventually relapsed over a course of 2.5 years. After retreatment with single-agent obinutuzumab, the patient achieved a partial remission again within one cycle and continues to maintain the response status. This case is a platform for considering obinutuzumab as a viable option for retreatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients who have received it before, similar to the pattern of use for other anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies in this disease, including rituximab.
Efficacy of Intrathecal Fentanyl for Cesarean Delivery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials With Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Uppal Vishal , Retter Susanne , Casey Margaret , Sancheti Sushil , Matheson Kara , McKeen Dolores M.
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND:

Fentanyl and morphine are the 2 most commonly added opioids to bupivacaine for spinal anesthesia during cesarean delivery. Numerous clinical trials have assessed efficacy and safety of different doses of fentanyl added to intrathecal bupivacaine for spinal anesthesia, yet its benefit, harm, and optimal dose remain unclear. This study aimed to systematically review the evidence of the efficacy of fentanyl when added to intrathecal bupivacaine alone and when added to bupivacaine with morphine for spinal anesthesia during cesarean delivery.

METHODS:

Key electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were searched for randomized controlled trials in the cesarean delivery population. The primary outcome was the failure rate of spinal anesthesia, as assessed by the need for either conversion to general anesthesia or intraoperative analgesic supplementation. Two reviewers independently extracted the data using a standardized electronic form. Results are expressed as relative risks or mean differences with 95% CIs.

RESULTS:

Seventeen randomized controlled clinical trials (most judged as low or unclear risk of bias) with 1064 participants provided data for the meta-analysis. Fentanyl added to intrathecal bupivacaine alone reduced the need for intraoperative supplemental analgesia (relative risk, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.11–0.27; number needed to treat, 4) and the incidence of nausea/vomiting (relative risk, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.24–0.70; number needed to treat, 6.5), with longer time to first postoperative analgesia request (mean difference, 91 minutes; 95% CI, 69–113). No difference was observed regarding the need for conversion to general anesthesia (relative risk, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.12–3.57), the incidence of hypotension, the onset of sensory block, or the duration of motor block. However, the addition of intrathecal fentanyl was associated with higher incidence of intraoperative pruritus (relative risk, 5.89; 95% CI, 2.07–16.79; number needed to harm, 13.5). The inclusion of fentanyl to intrathecal bupivacaine–morphine compared to intrathecal bupivacaine–morphine alone conferred a similar benefit, with a significantly reduced need for intraoperative supplemental analgesia (relative risk, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.03–0.95; number needed to treat, 9). Analysis using a funnel plot indicated a possibility of publication bias in included studies.

CONCLUSIONS:

Current evidence suggests a benefit of using fentanyl as both an additive to intrathecal bupivacaine alone and to intrathecal bupivacaine combined with morphine for cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia. The possibility of publication bias, small sample size, and high risk of bias in some of the included studies warrant treating the results with caution.
Clinical Cyanosis in a Patient Presenting for Outpatient Colonoscopy: A Case Report of Hemoglobin Kansas
Authors: Varnado-Rhodes Yael S.
Published: January 2019

Gene mutations that affect the synthesis or structure of hemoglobin are present in 7% of the world’s population. These mutations lead to variant hemoglobinopathies with phenotypes that range from clinically insignificant to fatal. Because monitoring oxygen saturation is standard of care and critical to detecting hypoxemia, it is crucial to recognize factors that might interfere with the measurement of oxygen saturation or decrease oxygen delivery. We discuss the management of a patient who presented to a freestanding surgical center with the rare variant hemoglobin Kansas, clinical cyanosis, and an initial pulse oximetry reading of 68% on room air.
Effects of Repetitive Head Impacts on a Concussion Assessment Battery
Authors: CACCESE JACLYN B. , BEST CHELSEA , LAMOND LINDSEY C. , DIFABIO MELISSA , KAMINSKI THOMAS W. , WATSON DAN , GETCHELL NANCY , BUCKLEY THOMAS A.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between repetitive head impacts (RHI) and clinical concussion assessments across a season among collegiate football (FB) and women’s soccer (WSOC) players.

Methods

Fifteen male FB and 23 WSOC players participated in this study. Participants were included if they were medically cleared for unrestricted athletic participation. Participants were tested in a university athletic training room on two occasions: preseason (PRE) and postseason (POST). The outcome measures consisted of tandem gait (TG), Standardized Assessment of Concussion, Balance Error Scoring System, King-Devick (KD), clinical reaction time, and Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing. Repetitive head impact during the season was quantified using the Head Impact Telemetry System (Simbex, NH) for FB and the Smart Impact Monitor (SIM; Triax Technologies, Norwalk, CT) for WSOC. Independent variables included total number of impacts, average magnitude of peak linear acceleration, cumulative linear exposure, and number of impacts ≥98g.

Results

Results from direct-entry multiple regression analyses suggest significant associations between RHI and both visual memory (R2= 0.670,F= 6.487,P= 0.002) and TG (R2= 0.636,F= 3.841,P= 0.029) for WSOC and between RHI and KD (R2= 0.756,F= 5.579,P= 0.013) for FB, whereby those with greater exposure performed worse. No other regression analyses within or across groups were significant.

Conclusions

These data suggest that RHI do not represent clinically meaningful changes on a multifaceted and multimodal concussion assessment battery. However, there may be subtle visual/vestibular impairments as observed by the associations between RHI and visual memory/TG among WSOC, RHI, and KD among FB.
Techniques for improving the initial strength of the tibial tray-cement interface bond
Authors: Billi F. , Kavanaugh A. , Schmalzried H. , Schmalzried T. P.
Published: January 2019

Aims

Loosening of the tibial component after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common indication for revision. Increasing the strength of the initial tibial implant/cement interface is desirable. There is little information about the surgical techniques that lead to the highest strength. We investigated the effects of eight variables on the strength of the initial tibial baseplate/cement interface.

Materials and Methods

A total of 48 tibial trays were cemented into acrylic holders using cement from two manufacturers, at three different times (early, normal, and late) using two techniques: cementing the tibial plateau or the plateau and the keel; and involving two conditions of contamination with marrow fat (at the metal/cement and cement/cement interfaces). Push-out tests were performed with load continuously recorded.

Results

Compared with normal conditions, early cementing increased the mean strength of the interface when using the two cements, Simplex and Palacos, by 48% and 72%, respectively. Late cementing reduced the strength by 47% and 73%, respectively. Cementing the keel increased the mean strength by 153% and 147%, respectively, for the two cements. Contamination of the metal/cement interface with fat reduced the mean strength by 99% and 94% for the two cements but adding cement to the underside of the tibial tray prior to insertion resulted in the mean strength being lowered by only 65% and 43%, respectively.

Conclusion

In order to maximize the strength of the tibial tray/cement interface, cement should be applied to the component soon after mixing, contamination of the interface should be avoided, and the keel and the plateau should be cemented.
The Process of Becoming a Sexual Black Woman: A Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Crooks Natasha , King Barbara , Tluczek Audrey , Sales Jessica McDermott
Published: January 2019

CONTEXT

Black females in the United States disproportionately suffer from STDs, including HIV. Understanding the sociocultural conditions that affect their risk is essential to developing effective and culturally relevant prevention programs.

METHODS

In 2016–2017 in Madison, Wisconsin, 20 black females aged 19–62 completed interviews that explored the sociocultural conditions associated with sexual development and STD/HIV risk. Interviews were guided by grounded theory; open, axial and selective coding and constant comparative analysis were used to identify developmental phases and relevant sociocultural conditions.

RESULTS

Three phases of becoming a sexual black woman were identified: Girl, when participants reported beginning to understand their sexuality; Grown, marking a transition to adulthood, when participants began to feel more self‐sufficient yet still grappled with their emerging sexuality; and Woman, when participants developed a strong sense of self and took ownership of their bodies. Two sociocultural conditions affected progression through these phases: stereotype messaging and protection (both self‐protection and protecting others). Negative life events (e.g., sexual trauma) and early sexualization reportedly affected sexual development, and STD experience influenced self‐perceptions of sexuality and sexual behavior, often leading to self‐protective behaviors. Older participants reported strategies to protect young black females from negative sexual experiences.

CONCLUSION

Interventions at multiple levels of the social ecology throughout the life course may help reduce STD/HIV risk among black women in the United States. Future research should include examination of the experiences of black females younger than 18 and evaluation of the protective strategies employed by older black females.
GIS based approach to analyze soil liquefaction and amplification: A case study in Eskisehir, Turkey
Authors: Okur Volkan
Published: January 2019

This study involves gathering the geological and geotechnical data and processing them in 3D structural model for the assessment of the likelihood of liquefaction hazard. A total of 467 borehole logs up to 30 m of depth were analyzed. Based on engineering characteristics of the soil formation, Geographical Information System based subsurface model maps and liquefaction hazard maps were prepared. Also microtremor measurements have been taken on different locations to assess the amplification of the alluvial formation. By obtaining amplification spectrum between the soil layers and response spectra at the top of the bedrock and at ground surface, a thematic map on amplification factor is produced. It is believed such kind of visual models will help engineers and designers on all aspects of future development of the cities especially transportation, infrastructure, and land uses against possible earthquake hazards.
Mechanical Properties of Hulless Barley Stem with Different Moisture Contents
Authors: Chen Jia-hui , Zhao Nan , Fu Nan , Li Dong , Wang Li-jun , Chen Xiao Dong
Published: January 2019

Mechanical properties of hulless barley stems with different moisture contents (10.23%–43.14%) were investigated by using temperature sweep, frequency sweep, stress relaxation and creep tests of dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) in this study. Results showed a significant dependence of storage modulus, loss modulus and tan delta on moisture content. The data from stress relaxation and creep was fitted by using generalized Maxwell model and Burgers model. 5-element Maxwell model was better for describing relaxation behaviors of hulless barely stem compared with the 3-element Maxwell model. The peak values of loss modulus and tan delta both occurred at a low temperature when moisture content increased. The dynamic mechanical properties can provide useful information for the harvesting and processing of huless barely stem.
Narcissistic Admiration and Rivalry: An Interpersonal Approach to Construct Validation
Authors: Grove Jeremy L. , Smith Timothy W. , Girard Jeffrey M. , Wright Aidan G.
Published: January 2019

The present study applied the interpersonal perspective in testing the narcissistic admiration and rivalry concept (NARC) and examining the construct validity of the corresponding Narcissistic Admiration and Rivalry Questionnaire (NARQ). Two undergraduate samples (Sample 1: N = 290; Sample 2: N = 188) completed self-report measures of interpersonal processes based in the interpersonal circumplex (IPC), as well as measures of related constructs. In examining IPC correlates, the authors used a novel bootstrapping approach to determine if admiration and rivalry related to differing interpersonal profiles. Consistent with the authors’ hypotheses, admiration was distinctly related to generally agentic (i.e., dominant) interpersonal processes, whereas rivalry generally reflected (low) communal (i.e., hostile) interpersonal processes. Furthermore, NARQ-admiration and NARQ-rivalry related to generally adaptive and maladaptive aspects of status-related constructs, emotional, personality, and social adjustment, respectively. This research provides further support for the NARC, as well as construct validation for the NARQ.
A Meta-Structural Model of Common Clinical Disorder and Personality Disorder Symptoms
Authors: Conway Christopher C. , Latzman Robert D. , Krueger Robert F.
Published: January 2019

A large and consistent research literature demonstrates the superiority of dimensional models of mental disorder. Factor analytic research has mapped the latent dimensions underlying separate sets of mental disorders (e.g., emotional disorders), but a common framework—unencumbered by arbitrary historical boundaries between disorder groups—requires additional research. Using empirically derived measures of three key domains of psychopathological variation, the overarching goal of the current study was to explicate dimensions connecting internalizing, externalizing, and personality disorders. Participants included 1,144 racially diverse undergraduates. Exploratory structural equation modeling analyses revealed seven latent dimensions: core internalizing, core externalizing, antagonism, impulsivity, dutifulness, detachment, and suspiciousness. This meta-structure reflects a more comprehensive model of the architecture of mental disorders than accounts derived from less inclusive assessment batteries. Future empirical work is needed to evaluate the utility of this structural model in etiological research, assessment, and treatment arenas.
MDR1 inhibition increases sensitivity to doxorubicin and etoposide in adrenocortical cancer
Authors: Creemers S G , van Koetsveld P M , De Herder W W , Dogan F , Franssen G J H , Feelders R A , Hofland L J
Published: January 2019

Chemotherapy for adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) has limited efficacy and is accompanied by severe toxicity. This lack of effectiveness has been associated with high tumoral levels of the multidrug resistance (MDR) pump P-glycoprotein (P-gp), encoded by theMDR1gene. In this study, effects of P-gp inhibition on the sensitivity of ACC cells to cytotoxic drugs were evaluated.MDR1mRNA and P-gp expression were determined in human adrenal tissues and cell lines. H295R, HAC15 and SW13 cells were treated with mitotane, doxorubicin, etoposide, cisplatin and streptozotocin, with or without the P-gp inhibitors verapamil and tariquidar. Cell growth and surviving fraction of colonies were assessed.MDR1mRNA and P-gp protein expression were lower in ACCs than in adrenocortical adenomas (P < 0.0001;P < 0.01, respectively).MDR1and P-gp expression were positively correlated in ACC (P < 0.0001,ρ = 0.723). Mitotane, doxorubicin, cisplatin and etoposide dose dependently inhibited cell growth in H295R, HAC15 and SW13. Tariquidar, and in H295R also verapamil, increased the response of HAC15 and H295R to doxorubicin (6.3- and 7.5-fold EC50decrease in H295R, respectively; allP < 0.0001). Sensitivity to etoposide was increased in H295R and HAC15 by verapamil and tariquidar (allP < 0.0001). Findings were confirmed when assessing colony formation. We show that cytotoxic drugs, except streptozotocin, used for ACC treatment, inhibit ACC cell growth and colony formation at clinically achievable concentrations. P-gp inhibition increases sensitivity to doxorubicin and etoposide, suggesting that MDR1 is involved in sensitivity to these drugs and could be a potential target for cytotoxic treatment improvement in ACC.
Discovery of QTL Alleles for Grain Shape in the Japan-MAGIC Rice Population Using Haplotype Information
Authors: Ogawa Daisuke , Nonoue Yasunori , Tsunematsu Hiroshi , Kanno Noriko , Yamamoto Toshio , Yonemaru Jun-ichi
Published: January 2019

A majority of traits are determined by multiple quantitative trait loci (QTL) that can have pleiotropic effects. A multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) population is well suited for genetically analyzing the effects of multiple QTL on traits of interest because it contains a higher number of QTL alleles than a biparental population. We previously produced the JAPAN-MAGIC (JAM) population, derived from eight rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars with high yield and biomass in Japan, and developed the method of genome-wide association study (GWAS) using haplotype information on the JAM lines. This method was effective for identifying major genes such as Waxy for eating quality and Sd1 for culm length. Here, we show that haplotype-based GWAS is also effective for the evaluation of multiple QTL with small effects on rice grain shape in the JAM lines. Although both the haplotype- and SNP-based GWAS identified multiple QTL for grain length and width, the sum of the estimated trait values of each allele for the QTL detected by haplotype-based GWAS had higher correlation with observed values than those detected by SNP-based GWAS, indicating high-accuracy QTL detection in the haplotype-based GWAS. Furthermore, the study revealed pleiotropic effects of some QTL regions in regulation of grain shape, suggesting that the haplotype-based GWAS using the JAM lines is an effective means to evaluate the main and side effects of haplotypes at each QTL. Information on the pleiotropic effects of haplotypes on various traits will be useful for designing ideal lines in a breeding program.
Mapping and Sequencing of a Significant Quantitative Trait Locus Affecting Resistance to Koi Herpesvirus in Common Carp
Authors: Palaiokostas Christos , Robledo Diego , Vesely Tomas , Prchal Martin , Pokorova Dagmar , Piackova Veronika , Pojezdal Lubomir , Kocour Martin , Houston Ross D
Published: January 2019

Cyprinids are the most highly produced group of fishes globally, with common carp being one of the most valuable species of the group. Koi herpesvirus (KHV) infections can result in high levels of mortality, causing major economic losses, and is listed as a notifiable disease by the World Organization for Animal Health. Selective breeding for host resistance has the potential to reduce morbidity and losses due to KHV. Therefore, improving knowledge about host resistance and methods of incorporating genomic data into breeding for resistance may contribute to a decrease in economic losses in carp farming. In the current study, a population of 1,425 carp juveniles, originating from a factorial cross between 40 sires and 20 dams was challenged with KHV. Mortalities and survivors were recorded and sampled for genotyping by sequencing using Restriction Site-Associated DNA sequencing (RADseq). Genome-wide association analyses were performed to investigate the genetic architecture of resistance to KHV. A genome-wide significant QTL affecting resistance to KHV was identified on linkage group 44, explaining approximately 7% of the additive genetic variance. Pooled whole genome resequencing of a subset of resistant (n = 60) and susceptible animals (n = 60) was performed to characterize QTL regions, including identification of putative candidate genes and functional annotation of associated polymorphisms. The TRIM25 gene was identified as a promising positional and functional candidate within the QTL region of LG 44, and a putative premature stop mutation in this gene was discovered.
Empirical Comparisons of Different Statistical Models To Identify and Validate Kernel Row Number-Associated Variants from Structured Multi-parent Mapping Populations of Maize
Authors: Yang Jinliang , Yeh Cheng-Ting “Eddy” , Ramamurthy Raghuprakash Kastoori , Qi Xinshuai , Fernando Rohan L , Dekkers Jack C M , Garrick Dorian J , Nettleton Dan , Schnable Patrick S
Published: January 2019

Advances in next generation sequencing technologies and statistical approaches enable genome-wide dissection of phenotypic traits via genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Although multiple statistical approaches for conducting GWAS are available, the power and cross-validation rates of many approaches have been mostly tested using simulated data. Empirical comparisons of single variant (SV) and multi-variant (MV) GWAS approaches have not been conducted to test if a single approach or a combination of SV and MV is effective, through identification and cross-validation of trait-associated loci. In this study, kernel row number (KRN) data were collected from a set of 6,230 entries derived from the Nested Association Mapping (NAM) population and related populations. Three different types of GWAS analyses were performed: 1) single-variant (SV), 2) stepwise regression (STR) and 3) a Bayesian-based multi-variant (BMV) model. Using SV, STR, and BMV models, 257, 300, and 442 KRN-associated variants (KAVs) were identified in the initial GWAS analyses. Of these, 231 KAVs were subjected to genetic validation using three unrelated populations that were not included in the initial GWAS. Genetic validation results suggest that the three GWAS approaches are complementary. Interestingly, KAVs in low recombination regions were more likely to exhibit associations in independent populations than KAVs in recombinationally active regions, probably as a consequence of linkage disequilibrium. The KAVs identified in this study have the potential to enhance our understanding of the genetic basis of ear development.
Water repellency of hierarchically structured legs of water-walking striders and fire ants
Authors: Hurchalla Georgia , Drelich Jaroslaw W
Published: January 2019

Some insects have the ability to walk on the surface of water due to their hierarchical leg structure and wax coating. In this study, resistance forces of water strider and fire ant legs to submersion in water, under their various orientations, were quantified using a high-sensitivity microbalance. Legs oriented parallel to the water surface could support up to ten times as much force before immersion compared to legs in a perpendicular orientation. Water pressure affected the seta structure differently at parallel and perpendicular approaches, and complete wetting was more difficult in the structure observed during parallel immersion. The wax coating on water strider legs was found to decrease adhesion force with little effect on immersion force. Overall, wax-coated strider legs, having conical setae with nanogrooves to facilitate removal of water, are natural models for legs of a biomimetic aquatic robot when oriented parallel to the water surface.
Design of Astatic Digital Systems with Application of Standard Normalized Transfer Functions
Authors: Gaiduk A. R.
Published: January 2019

Control systems with the increased astatic order provide higher accuracy and consequently their application is expedient at the solution of many control problems. In particular, it concerns to digital systems which have higher adaptability to manufacture and reliability. However the task of the digital systems design is a little bit more difficult in comparison with a similar task in a continuous case. Article is devoted to the solution of a design problem of the discrete automatic systems, which realization is carried out on the basis of a control principle on output and impacts. Standard normalized transfer functions (SNTF) are convenient means for the problem solution of the control systems design with the required direct quality indices. The method of the desirable transfer functions formation for the digital control systems on basis of the continuous systems SNTF is suggested in article. This method follows from the theorem proved in this article and consists in carrying out of the z-transformation suitable tabulated SNTF of the continuous system and some updating of the received function. The formation method of the desirable transfer functions of the digital systems with the second order astatic, constant overshot and final duration of transients is suggested in article also. The control systems with such properties of transients have the increased order; therefore microcontrollers with high speed are required for their realization. Efficiency of the suggested methods is illustrated by numerical examples.
LİSANS ÖĞRENCİLERİNİN ERASMUS ÖĞRENCİ ÖĞRENİM HAREKETLİLİĞİ PROGRAMI’NA İLİŞKİN FARKINDALIKLARI VE TUTUMLARI
Authors: Çenberci Selin , Çenberci Engin , Saban Aslıhan
Published: January 2019

Bu çalışmada, Necmettin Erbakan Üniversitesi Ahmet
Keleşoğlu Eğitim Fakültesi Öğrencilerinin Erasmus Öğrenci Öğrenim Hareketliliği
Programı’na ilişkin farkındalık düzeylerini ve tutumlarını ortaya koymak
amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma evrenini 2015–2016 eğitim öğretim yılında Necmettin
Erbakan Üniversitesi Ahmet Keleşoğlu Eğitim Fakültesinde öğrenim gören
öğrenciler oluşturmaktadır. Çalışmaya Necmettin Erbakan Üniversitesi Ahmet Keleşoğlu
Eğitim Fakültesine bağlı Bilgisayar ve Öğretim Teknolojileri Eğitimi, Eğitim
Bilimleri, Güzel Sanatlar Eğitimi, İlköğretim, Ortaöğretim Fen ve Matematik
Alanları Eğitimi, Ortaöğretim Sosyal Alanlar Eğitimi, Özel Eğitim, Türkçe
Eğitimi ve Yabancı Diller Eğitimi olmak üzere dokuz bölümden öğrenim gören
toplam 888 öğrenci katılmıştır. Çalışmanın sonucunda, öğrencilerin Erasmus
Öğrenci Öğrenim Hareketliliği Programı hakkında yeterince bilgiye sahip
olmadıkları ve Erasmus Öğrenci Öğrenim Hareketliliği Programına katılma
noktasında öğrencilerin kendilerini yetersiz gördükleri tespit edilmiştir. Son olarak, Üniversite Erasmus
Koordinatörlüğüne iletilmek üzere öğrencilerin Erasmus Öğrenci Öğrenim
Hareketliliği Programı’na ilişkin farkındalık düzeylerini ve tutumlarını artıracağı düşünülen öneriler ortaya konmuştur.
Liver function tests to predict the severity of dengue fever in serologically positive children below 18 years of age
Authors: H. N. Yashwanth Raju , Kumar Rajendra , Rudrappa Sudha
Published: January 2019

Background: Dengue fever presents with a diverse clinical spectrum. Although liver is not a major target organ, hepatic dysfunction is a well-recognized feature. In this study authors attempted to study the pattern of hepatic involvement in children with dengue and its association with disease severity.Methods: This was a cross sectional study conducted at Cheluvamba hospital during the period of 1 year. Children <18 years of age with dengue Ns1 Ag and IgM positive were included in this study. After obtaining informed consent, a pre-structured proforma was used to record the relevant information from each subject. After detailed clinical examination and haematological investigation children were categorized into three groups as dengue fever with no warning signs (DNWS), dengue fever with warning signs (DWWS) and severe dengue fever (SDF) according to WHO classification. Statistical analysis was done to know the strength of association between different clinical and biochemical variables and outcome of the disease.Results: The mean age of the study population was 8.65 years with male preponderance. The mean total bilirubin, serum albumin, SGOT, SGPT, ALP, PT and INR were 0.76 mg/dl, 3.8g/dl, 233.18U/L, 118.15U/L, 200.65 U/L, 12.9s and 1.09 respectively. The mean SGOT was significantly higher than SGPT. The degree of deranged LFTs was significantly more in SDF group than DNWS and DWWS groups. Serum albumin was significantly decreased in children with SDF group correlating with disease severity, prognosis and outcome.Conclusions: Hepatic dysfunction was present in all forms of dengue infection, with SGOT rising significantly more than SGPT. All biochemical liver parameters were significantly deranged in patients with severe dengue fever indicating prolonged illness and poor prognosis.
Spironucleus muris and Eperythrozoon coccoides in Rodents from Northwestern Iran: Rare Infections
Authors: Heidari Soudabeh , Mohebali Mehdi , Zarei Zabihollah , Nateghpour Mehdi , Motevalli-Haghi Afsaneh
Published: January 2019

Background: Rodents perform a crucial role in dispersal of zoonosis causes globally. We aimed to investigation about infection levels of parasitic agents in rodents’ population in Meshkinshahr areas, northwest of Iran from Apr to Sep 2014.
Methods: Two hundred four rodents were trapped and anaesthetized. A sample of blood was collected via cardi­opuncture from each one. Thin and thick blood smears were prepared and stained with Giemsa. All stained smear were examined under light microscopy with high magnification by two expert microscopists. Every suspected uni­cellular observed were measured microscopically and compared with key references to diagnose.
Results: Captured rodents were identified as three genera including Meriones persicus, Mus musculus, Cricetulus migraturius. Protozoa identified in this study were included of Spironucleus muris and Eperythrozoon coccoides, these parasites were observed in blood smear of 0.98% of rodents. S. muris and E. coccoides were seen in M. mus­culus and C. migraturius, respectively.
Conclusion: The present study increases awareness about Eperythrozoonosis in rodents and its potential transmis­sion to domestic animals and even to human in rural districts in Iran. Moreover, the attack of Spironucleus on the mucus of colon and its systemic risk was confirmed
Wing Geometry Analysis of Aedes aegypti (Diptera, Culicidae), a Dengue Vi-rus Vector, from Multiple Geographical Locations of Samut Songkhram, Thailand
Authors: Chaiphongpachara Tanawat , Juijayen Nattapon , Khlaeo Chansukh Kitthisak
Published: January 2019

Background: Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a mosquito-borne disease and remains a major public health problem, especially in tropical and temperate countries. Studying wing morphometric of Aedes aegypti as a mosquito vector of DHF can help to better understand biological process of the mosquito adaptation to the environment. We aimed to study the geometric morphometric of Ae. aegypti from multiple geographical areas.
Methods: Samples were collected from Samut Songkhram Province in Thailand, including coastal, residential and cultivated areas, by Ovitrap once per month during Oct to Nov 2016.
Results: According to size variation analysis of Ae. aegypti, the female mosquito in a cultivated area was significant­ly different from those in the coastal and residential areas (P< 0.05). Whereas male Ae. aegypti in a cultivated area were significantly different from those in a residential area (P< 0.05). The shape variation of both female and male Ae. aegypti from all areas was statistically different (P< 0.05).
Conclusion: Normally, living organisms, including mosquitoes, are adapted to their environment. The studied geo­graphical locations affect Ae. aegypti morphology.
Larvicidal Activity of Essential Oil of Syzygium aromaticum (Clove) in Com-parison with Its Major Constituent, Eugenol, against Anopheles stephensi
Authors: Osanloo Mahmoud , Mehdi Sedaghat Mohammad , Esmaeili Fariba , Amani Amir
Published: January 2019

Background: In this study, larvicidal activity of clove essential oil (EO), as a green and relatively potent larvicide, was compared with its main constituent, Eugenol, against Anopheles stephensi.
Methods: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the amount of eugenol, major constituent of clove EO. In addition, larvicidal activity of clove EO and eugenol was evaluated against An. stephensi.
Results: The amount of eugenol in clove EO was determined as 67% using HPLC analysis. LC50 and LC90 of clove EO (57.49 and 93.14ppm, respectively) were significantly lower than those of eugenol (86.96 and 128.18 ppm, re­spectively).
Conclusion: EO showed more effective than its major component. Considering the lower cost of the essential oil and lower risk in occurrence of resistance in larvae, use of clove EO is preferred as larvicide in comparison with eugenol, against An. stephensi.
Geographical Features and Seroprevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi in Erzincan, Turkey
Authors: Cikman Aytekin , Aydin Merve , Gulhan Baris , Karakecili Faruk , Demirtas Levent , Arif Kesik Ozan
Published: January 2019

Background: We aimed to determine the geographical features and seroprevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi in Erzincan, Turkey, which has a high tick population due to its geographical position and climatic conditions.
Methods: From January to December 2014, 368 people living in Erzincan, northeastern Turkey were enrolled. B. burgdorferi IgG antibodies were investigated in the collected serum samples using the ELISA method in 2015. Positive and borderline results were confirmed using the Western Blot (WB) method. 
Results: Borrelia burgdorferi IgG positivity was found to be 4.1% by ELISA and 2.17% by WB. Of the seropositive people according to WB, 25% resided in areas within 2000m of rivers, 50% in areas with a slope of 0–5°, and 62.5% in areas with an altitude of lower than 1500 meters.
Conclusion: The seroprevalence of Lyme borreliosis was high in Erzincan, particularly among people engaged in animal husbandry in rural areas. In addition, the seroprevalence of Borrelia varied according to geographical features, increasing in areas with a lower slope and altitude.
Insecticidal and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition Activity of Veratrum nigrum Al¬kaloidal Extract against the German Cockroach (Blattella germanica)
Authors: Cai Xianghai , Li Qingfeng , Xiao Lei , Lu Hailiang , Tang Jian , Huang Jianbo , Yuan Jianzhong
Published: January 2019

Background: Veratrum nigrum (Liliaceae) is perennial medicinal plant widely used to treat various conditions. To de­ter­mine its insecticidal properties against the German cockroach (Blattella germanica), several laboratory tests were car­ried out.
Methods: A 4kg dry sample of V. nigrum root was purchased from the medicinal material market in Yunnan Province in 2015, China. In contact toxicity tests, V. nigrum alkaloidal extract was topically applied to the abdomen of cockroaches using a micro-applicator. In vitro acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity tests were performed using a modified Ellman method.
Results: Veratrum nigrum alkaloidal extract was toxic to male adults and 4th nymphs cockroaches, with median lethal dose (LD50) values of 14.90µg/insect, 14.21µg/insect for adults and 41.45µg/insect, 39.01µg/insect for 4th nymphs after 24h and 48h exposure, respectively. There was a significant difference between adults and nymphs in terms of tolerance to V. nigrum alkaloidal extract. There was no significant difference in mortalities at 24h and 48h, the lethal effect of V. nigrum alkaloidal extract on German cockroach was quick. AChE activity tests showed that V. nigrum alkaloidal extract had an excellent inhibitory effect on AChE: inhibition in the 4th nymphs and male adults had 50% inhibiting concentra­tion (IC50) values of 3.56mg/ml and 5.78mg/ml respectively. The inhibitory effect of AChE activity was positively cor­related with inhibitory time (0–20min), at a concentration of 1mg/ml, inhibition of nymph and adult AChE activity had 50% inhibiting time (IT50) values of 8.34min and 16.75min, respectively.
Conclusion: V. nigrum may be explored as a potential natural insecticide for control of the German cockroach.
Impact of Flag Texture on Tick Sampling Efficiency
Authors: De Mendonça Philippe Gil
Published: January 2019

Background: There is a strong interest in tick-borne diseases worldwide due to their negative impact on both human and animal health. Epidemiological studies of tick-borne diseases depend on reliable data on tick population dynamics and activity patterns. Such data are essentially based on tick sampling in the field. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of cloth type on the efficiency of field sampling by the flagging technique.
Methods: The impact of cloth type on the efficiency of field sampling by the flagging technique was investigated by comparing tick sampling yields of two different fabrics, the Munich type (MUC) vs. the Oxford type (OX), based on 30 pairs of transect lines. Data analysis included classical statistics and computer modelling.
Results: The MUC flag yielded nearly five times more larval ticks than the OX flag, whereas the differences in yields for nymphs and adult ticks were not statistically significant based on classical statistics.
Conclusion: The flag made of MUC type fabric, thanks to its tight and relatively flat texture, facilitates detection and collection of ticks from its surface. The OX flag, due to its loose texture, is unsuitable for the quantitative sampling of larval Ixodes ricinus.
The Effect of Swinging Ball Heads with Different Arrangements in Multi-Point Stretch Forming Process
Authors: Xing Jian , Cheng Yan-yan , Yi Zhuo
Published: January 2019

To improve the effect of multi-point stretch forming of sheet metal, it is proposed in this paper to replace fixed ball head with swinging ball head. According to the multi-point dies with different arrangements, this research establishes the finite element models of the following stretch forming, i.e. fixed ball heads with conventional arrangement, swinging ball heads with conventional arrangement, swinging ball heads with declining staggered arrangement, and swinging ball heads with parallel staggered arrangement and then numerical simulation is performed. The simulation results show that by replacing fixed ball head with swinging ball head, the surface indentation of the formed part was effectively suppressed, the stress and tension strain distribution of the formed part was improved and the forming quality was improved; that the thickness of the elastic pad was reduced, the springback was reduced and the forming accuracy was improved; and that when the ball head was applied to multi-point die with staggered arrangement, better forming result was achieved, where the best forming result was achieved in combining the swinging ball heads with the multi-point die with parallel staggered arrangement. The forming experiments were carried out, and the experimental results were consistent with the trend of numerical simulation results, which verified the correctness of the numerical simulation.
Integrated Service Delivery and Health-Related Quality of Life of Individuals in Permanent Supportive Housing Who Were Formerly Chronically Homeless
Authors: Schick Vanessa , Wiginton Lindsey , Crouch Cathy , Haider Ali , Isbell Frances
Published: January 2019

Objectives. To investigate the impact of an integrated care model on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of formerly chronically homeless individuals in permanent supportive housing.

Methods. From 2014 to 2017, eligible individuals in Houston, Texas (n = 323), were placed in 1 of 2 permanent supportive housing service delivery models. Both models included coordinated care teams. In the intervention group, teams had a single plan of care with the partnering clinic. The 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire and 36-item Short Form Survey were administered at baseline and every 6 months for 30 months. We assessed intervention group emergency department use at 2 years. We evaluated change by using hierarchical linear growth models.

Results. There was a significant and clinically meaningful increase in HRQOL in the intervention group, with the intervention group reporting improvement over the comparison group. Intervention group emergency department use decreased by 70% (no comparison group).

Conclusions. Those in the intervention group with a single, coordinated plan of care reported significant and clinically meaningful increases in their HRQOL.

Public Health Implications. Coordinated care models have potential to reduce societal costs and increase HRQOL, providing a financial and humanitarian justification for the continued investment in collaborative care in permanent supportive housing.
Cytotoxicity and Chemotherapeutic Potential of Natural Rosin Abietane Diterpenoids and their Synthetic Derivatives
Authors: Faustino Célia , Neto Íris , Fonte Pedro , Macedo Ana
Published: January 2019

Cancer is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Chemotherapeutic agents currently
used in cancer treatment are associated with severe side effects and development of resistance. Thus, there is a
pressing need for novel and more potent anticancer drugs with high selectivity for tumor cells and reduced toxicity
to normal tissue. Natural products remain an important source of bioactive compounds and drug prototypes that
can lead to new and more effective antitumor agents. Coniferous plants are rich in abietane diterpenoids with a
wide range of biological activities that provide useful templates for synthetic modification. Abietic acid and dehydroabietic
acid (DHA), the major diterpenic resin acids from Pinus rosin, and dehydroabietylamine found in
commercial disproportionated rosin amine, display antibacterial and antitumor properties. These compounds and
their synthetic derivatives have been reported as promising anticancer agents with potent growth inhibitory activity
against several types of human cancer cell lines, including breast, ovarian, prostate, colon, liver, lung and cervical
carcinoma cells. Their mechanisms of action are diverse and include DNA binding, induction of apoptosis
or oncosis, tubulin polymerization inhibition and disruption of intracellular cholesterol transport. This review
covers the main aspects of natural rosin abietane diterpenoids (abietic acid, DHA and DHAA) and synthetic derivatives
concerning their anti-proliferative, cytotoxic and antitumor activities, mechanisms of action and structure-
activity relationships relevant for the development of novel anticancer agents for cancer chemotherapy.
Photopolymerizable Resins for 3D-Printing Solid-Cured Tissue Engineered Implants
Authors: Guerra Antonio J. , Lara-Padilla Hernan , Becker Matthew L. , Rodriguez Ciro A. , Dean David
Published: January 2019

With the advent of inexpensive and highly accurate 3D printing devices, a tremendous flurry
of research activity has been unleashed into new resorbable, polymeric materials that can be printed using
three approaches: hydrogels for bioprinting and bioplotting, sintered polymer powders, and solid cured
(photocrosslinked) resins. Additionally, there is a race to understand the role of extracellular matrix components
and cell signalling molecules and to fashion ways to incorporate these materials into resorbable
implants. These chimeric materials along with microfluidic devices to study organs or create labs on
chips, are all receiving intense attention despite the limited number of polymer systems that can accommodate
the biofabrication processes necessary to render these constructs. Perhaps most telling is the limited
number of photo-crosslinkable, resorbable polymers and fabrication additives (e.g., photoinitiators,
solvents, dyes, dispersants, emulsifiers, or bioactive molecules such as micro-RNAs, peptides, proteins,
exosomes, micelles, or ceramic crystals) available to create resins that have been validated as biocompatible.
Advances are needed to manipulate 4D properties of 3D printed scaffolds such as pre-implantation
cell culture, mechanical properties, resorption kinetics, drug delivery, scaffold surface functionalization,
cell attachment, cell proliferation, cell maturation, or tissue remodelling; all of which are necessary for
regenerative medicine applications along with expanding the small set of materials in clinical use. This
manuscript presents a review of the foundation of the most common photopolymerizable resins for solidcured
scaffolds and medical devices, namely, polyethylene glycol (PEG), poly(D, L-lactide) (PDLLA),
poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL), and poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF), along with methodological advances
for 3D Printing tissue engineered implants (e.g., via stereolithography [SLA], continuous Digital Light
Processing [cDLP], and Liquid Crystal Display [LCD]).