bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acetaminophen Toxicity Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Merritt Gerald J. , Joyner Pamela U.
Published: July 2017

A case of acute acetaminophen overdose is presented. After ingesting approximately 36 g of acetaminophen, the patient experienced severe hepatic damage with total bilirubin reaching a high of 26.5 mg/100 ml. The complications and present methods available for treating acute acetaminophen overdose are discussed.
The Availability of Trace Elements in Intravenous Hyperalimentation Solutions
Authors: Shearer Cameron A. , Bozian Richard C.
Published: July 2017

A study of the level and availability of trace elements in commercial and compounded hyperalimentation solutions was performed. Analyses of the zinc, copper, and manganese content of Aminosol®, Amigen®, Cutter Protein Hydrolysate®, and FreAmine II® were carried out using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Zinc was found to be present in the highest concentrations in the solutions and copper in the lowest. Although the concentrations of a particular element varied between batches of a given solution, there was a greater variation in concentrations between the different nitrogen sources. No loss of trace elements by precipitation or absorption occurred following their addition to a compounded hyperalimentation solution. A suggested trace element solution for supplementation to a compounded TPN preparation is presented.
The Burn Wound — Topical Therapy for Infection Control
Authors: Moleski Ronald J.
Published: July 2017

The treatment of infection in burn victims presents a unique challenge to the clinician. The nature of the burn wound does not lend itself to standard systemic anti-infective therapy. The pathophysiology of the burn wound and the reparative process is briefly described. The common invading pathogens and the clinical signs of bum wound sepsis are also discussed.

The manuscript deals with the various topical antibacterial agents employed. Because of the avascularity of many deep burn wounds, topical agents become the mainstay of therapy. Systemic antibiotics have a place in the treatment of burn victims, but their use is limited in comparison with the benefits of topical preparations. The various topical agents are not without hazards and significant systemic absorption is common. The nature and extent of the burn injury, as well as other concurrent patient problems, often necessitate the choice of a particular topical preparation. With proper care of the wound and the correct choice of a topical anti-infective preparation, systemic antibacterial agents will often be unnecessary. Finally, the value of grafting, whether temporary or permanent, is discussed and attention is paid to drug effects on skin grafts and the prevention of bacterial destruction of permanent autografts.
Physical Assessment of the Ocular Apparatus
Authors: Stewart David E. , Srnka Quentin M. , Calvert Jon C. , Longe R. Leon
Published: July 2017

The article introduces the physical assessment of the ocular apparatus. Normal and abnormal anatomy and physiology are described, along with assessment techniques and tools. Drugs affecting the eye are discussed and a case study is presented.
Application of Cis-Diamminedichloro-Platinum in Combination Antineoplastic Therapy of Testicular Cancer
Authors: Williams Janice M. , Popovich Nicholas G.
Published: July 2017

Testicular carcinoma is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in adult males between the ages of 20 and 35. Cis-Diamminedichloroplatinum (II) (i.e., CDDP) is currently being used investigatively in combination chemotherapy for the treatment of this disease. This article reviews the literature to date on CDDP and its application in testicular cancer. Individual CDDP parameters (e.g., chemistry, mechanism of action, effectiveness and clinical use, adverse effects, dosage, administration and distribution) are discussed.
Benzathine Penicillin G in the Treatment of Neurosyphilis
Authors: Cuddy Paul G.
Published: July 2017

The definition, pathogenesis, incidence, diagnosis, and treatment of neurosyphilis are discussed. Controlled trials of benzathine penicillin in the treatment of neurosyphilis are reviewed, as are recent case reports of benzathine penicillin failures. Although few well-controlled studies exist to document conclusively the efficacy of benzathine penicillin in the treatment of neurosyphilis, its use is recommended in selected situations.
An Objective Method of Compliance Assessment with Metered-Dose Inhalers
Authors: Nemec Mary Alice , Sorrells Susan C. , Prihoda Thomas J. , Talbert Robert L.
Published: July 2017

Evaluation of compliance with metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) is especially difficult. We investigated the correlation between serial weight change of the MDI canister and the number of doses delivered. Canister weight strongly correlated with number of activations for three different bronchodilators (metaproterenol, r2 = 0.9965; albuterol, r2 = 0.9984; terbutaline, r2 = 0.9913). To validate these results, a one-month trial designed to mimic patient use was conducted. Nine aerosol bronchodilator MDIs (three each of terbutaline, albuterol, and metaproterenol) were evaluated by three volunteers, each given one of each type of MDI. Number of activations were recorded in a diary and canisters were weighed weekly. At the end of the four-week period the number of activations were determined from weekly canister weight. Predicted activation numbers, calculated from both regression line and baseline weight, were compared to actual activation number. Statistical analysis was done using analysis of variance. Predicted number of activations for all three drugs ranged from 77 to 125 percent of observed and did not significantly differ depending on the type of bronchodilator (p = 0.3340). The method of prediction, regression intercept or baseline weight, led to significantly different predictions (p = 0.0569). The interaction between the method of prediction and type of bronchodilator was significant (p = 0.0197). Using either method, the actual number of doses dispensed can be predicted within 25 percent.
Stability of Famotidine in Minibags Refrigerated and/or Frozen
Authors: Bullock Linda S. , Fitzgerald Joseph F. , Glick Melvin R.
Published: July 2017

The stability of famotidine 200 μg/ml in dextrose 5% injection (D5W) and in NaCl 0.9% (NS) solutions in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) minibags was studied when these solutions were stored refrigerated at 4°C for 14 days, or frozen at −20°C for 28 days and then refrigerated for 14 days. Famotidine concentration was determined in the refrigerated samples immediately after compounding (time 0) and also on days 2, 4, 8, and 14 by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Famotidine concentration was determined by HPLC in frozen samples at time 0 and days 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42. Solutions were also observed for visual changes and pH was tested at these time intervals.

Results of the HPLC famotidine analysis demonstrated 94–107 percent recovery of famotidine in D5W and NS at 14 days in refrigerated samples and 98–100 percent recovery of famotidine in minibags frozen for 28 days then refrigerated for 14 days. Analysis of variance showed no time effect on the concentration of famotidine in refrigerated samples (p = 0.741). Linear regression of the frozen minibag data indicated no time effect.

Famotidine 200 μg/ml is stable in dextrose 5% injection and NaCl 0.9% injection when stored in PVC bags at 4°C for 14 days, or when frozen for 28 days and then subsequently refrigerated for 14 days.
Precipitation of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal following Sudden Discontinuation of Midazolam
Authors: Finley Patrick R. , Nolan Paul E.
Published: July 2017

Midazolam hydrochloride is an ultra-short acting benzodiazepine recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for anesthesia induction and preoperative sedation. Frequently, midazolam is also used as an injection or infusion for the treatment of agitation in ventilator-dependent patients. A 53–year-old man underwent a gastrojejunostomy and was later intubated following the development of pseudomonal pneumonia. Midazolam was initiated in an effort to resolve his agitation and the patient continued to receive frequent bolus injections, averaging 22 mg/d over 21 days. Approximately eight hours after midazolam was abruptly discontinued, the patient became increasingly anxious and developed somatic complaints felt to be consistent with benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. Symptoms rapidly abated upon the reintroduction of midazolam and the drug was ultimately tapered over a period of four days and discontinued without further incident. Implications derived from the association of long-term midazolam therapy with benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome are discussed.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Hoffman Dennis M. , Caruso Rocco F. , Mirando Timothy
Published: July 2017

Thrombocytopenia has emerged as a major hematological manifestation associated with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients. A study of homosexual patients with thrombocytopenia indicates 93 percent had serological evidence of HIV exposure whereas only 33 percent of homosexuals without thrombocytopenia exhibited this finding. Thrombocytopenia in patients with hemophilia has been identified as an increased risk factor for AIDS development and has been observed in about one-third of children with AIDS.

The management of thrombocytopenia in HIV-infected patients poses a therapeutic dilemma for clinicians since many of the traditional modalities for treating immune thrombocytopenia may adversely affect the underlying disease process or further compromise the immune system. Splenectomy, corticosteroids, danazol, intravenous immune globulin, vincristine, and RHo(D) immune globulin have all been used with variable results. A new technique that physically removes antibodies and immune complexes associated with thrombocytopenia is under investigation. Due to either toxicity or the high incidence of transient response, asymptomatic patients may not be candidates for treatment.
Intramuscular Diclofenac Sodium versus Intravenous Baralgin in the Treatment of Renal Colic
Authors: Sanahuja Jaime , Corbera Gaspar , Garau Javier , Plá Ramón , Carré M. Carmen
Published: July 2017

A comparative, randomized, double-blind study of diclofenac sodium 75 mg im versus Baralgin (a combination drug composed of dipyrone and two spasmolytics) 5 mL iv was performed on 57 patients with renal colic. Both groups were comparable as to age, sex, pain evolution time before treatment, and no treatment for renal colic in the six hours preceding trial drug administration. No significant differences were found between the two groups with respect to the evolution of pain after the first dose or in the frequency of administration of a second dose. Tolerability was good in both groups, but sweating and pain throughout the vein were observed in one patient in the Baralgin group. We concluded that diclofenac sodium constitutes an excellent alternative to pyrazolone analgesics, with the advantages of being monotherapy and having good tolerability, when used as intramuscular injection in ambulatory patients.
Transition from Lanoxin Capsules to Lanoxin Tablets in the Debilitated Elderly
Authors: Drinka Paul J. , Nickel Donald A. , Schomisch Gerald W. , Depka Clifford H. , Deterville Richard J.
Published: July 2017

Lanoxin capsules are more rapidly absorbed than tablets, with less contact by intestinal bacteria capable of metabolizing digoxin to an inactive form. The manufacturer states that the doses of a 0.25-mg tablet and a 0.20-mg capsule are approximately equivalent. Thirty-nine patients had digoxin concentrations determined within three months of the transition from Lanoxin capsules to Lanoxin tablets, and again one month after starting the tablets. Patients were excluded if confounding medications had been changed before the two blood draws or if they had an acute disease exacerbation. The mean digoxin concentration on capsules was 0.92 ± 26 ng/mL. The mean concentration on comparable doses of tablets was 1.03 ± 29 ng/mL, with a mean difference of 0.11 ng/mL. Paired comparisons were significantly higher on the tablets ( t = 3.203, p = 0.0028).
A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of the Efficacy of Lactinex in the Prophylaxis of Amoxicillin-Induced Diarrhea
Authors: Tankanow Roberta M. , Ross Mary B. , Ertel Inta J. , Dickinson David G. , McCormick Lisa S. , Garfinkel Jodi F.
Published: July 2017

The disruption of the natural flora of the gastrointestinal tract (especially Lactobacillus acidophilus) may occur during antibiotic therapy. This may lead to diarrhea, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances. It has been suggested that replacement of the lactobacilli with a commercially available product may prevent the diarrhea. The efficacy and safety of prophylactically administered Lactinex (culture of L. acidophilus and L. bulgaricus) was compared with placebo for the prevention of amoxicillin-induced diarrhea in pediatric patients. Lactinex or placebo was administered four times a day for ten days to coincide with the antibiotic therapy. The Lactobacillus preparation did not appear to consistently prevent diarrhea in this patient population. Patients' age, diet, and parental definition of diarrhea were factors that may have influenced the results.
Excipients in Valproic Acid Syrup May Cause Diarrhea: A Case Report
Authors: Veerman Mark W.
Published: July 2017

A 5-year-old child receiving valproic acid syrup for seizure control developed diarrhea probably from the excipient ingredients. Each 5 mL of valproic acid syrup contains sucrose 3 g, glycerin 0.75 g sorbitol 0.75 g, providing daily amounts of 36, 9 9 g of sucrose, glycerin sorbitol, respectively. The diarrhea resolved when the child was switched to another valproic acid product. Clinicians should be aware of potential problems that may occur from excipient ingredients in pharmaceutical products when evaluating adverse effects of medications.
Impaired Water Homeostasis following Mixed Carbamazepine and Phenobarbital Overdose
Authors: Shapira Oz M. , Feld Steven , Mor Eitan , Konichezky Sergio
Published: July 2017

Both carbamazepine and phenobarbital are known to have antidiuretic properties when administered chronically. We describe a case of acute impairment of body water homeostasis following mixed drug overdose with carbamazepine and phenobarbital. Serum carbamazepine concentrations correlated with alternating states of diuresis and antidiuresis. We recommend close monitoring of fluid and electrolyte status in carbamazepine overdose.
Effect of I-Scrub on Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Blepharitis
Authors: Avisar Rahamim , Savir Hanna , Deutsch David , Teller Jacob
Published: July 2017

To assess the effect of I-Scrub (Spectra Pharmaceutical Services), a new detergent eyelid scrub, on the subjective symptoms and objective clinical signs of chronic blepharitis, 20 patients with this disease were treated for three weeks. None of them yielded positive cultures for virulent bacteria from the eyelids and conjunctiva. Most of the patients reported significant reduction in the subjective symptoms and in the severity of the clinical signs as well. No adverse effects were observed. The results of our study suggest that this product is of value as a detergent eyelid scrub in the treatment of chronic blepharitis.
Prostaglandin E1 Treatment of Congenital Heart Disease: Use Prior to Neonatal Transport
Authors: Buck Marcia L.
Published: July 2017

Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) is used to maintain the patency of the ductus arteriosus in neonates when it is necessary to circumvent a defect in the heart or aorta in order to provide adequate peripheral perfusion. It has recently been recommended that medical stabilization with PGE1 be done as soon as a ductus-dependent cardiac defect is suspected, preferably prior to transport of the infant to a tertiary care center for surgical repair of the defect. To accomplish this, hospitals providing obstetric services will need to maintain a supply of PGE1. This commentary provides guidelines for determining the need to stock PGE1 and presents a brief review of the physiology of the ductus arteriosus and the pharmacology and adverse effects of PGE1 therapy.
Use of Estrogens among Middle-Aged Massachusetts Women
Authors: Hemminki Elina , Brambilla Donald J. , McKinlay Sonja M. , Posner Jennifer G.
Published: July 2017

This study describes estrogen use among 45- to 55-year-old white women in Massachusetts from 1981 to 1987. In a 1981 cross-sectional survey, 7705 white women (77 percent response rate) returned a questionnaire or were interviewed by phone. Premenopausal women were invited into a 4.5-year follow-up study including telephone interviews every nine months, and 2236 (approximately 91 percent of the eligible women) had a complete follow-up. In the cross-sectional survey, 7.9 percent had used oral estrogens in the last two weeks, but most (77 percent) had had a hysterectomy; use varied notably from one area to another. Vaginal estrogens were used by 2.9 percent. Users and nonusers of oral estrogens were quite similar in regard to sociodemographic background. Data from the follow-up surveys showed that estrogen use increased throughout the study period and by the final follow-up women with higher education status reported more estrogen use than those with lower education status. Most women used estrogens only for a short time.
Comparison of Steady-State Serum Concentrations of Digoxin in Tablets (Lanoxin) and Capsules (Lanoxicaps) in the Elderly
Authors: Pouwels Marie-José M. , Hooymans Piet M. , van der Aa Geert C. , Gribnau Frank W.
Published: July 2017

The bioavailability of digoxin in solution (Lanoxicaps, 90–100 percent) is superior to that of Lanoxin tablets (60–80 percent) in young healthy volunteers. The alleged bioequivalence of digoxin in tablets (Lanoxin 0.25, 0.125 mg) and capsules (Lanoxicaps 0.2, 0.1 mg) was studied in 20 elderly inpatients (14 women, 6 men, aged 84 ± 5 years), treated with digoxin for atrial fibrillation. In a crossover design, steady-state digoxin concentrations were measured in 16 patients after once-daily administration of Lanoxin 0.125 mg or Lanoxicaps 0.1 mg, each for at least ten days. Four other patients took Lanoxin 0.25 mg and Lanoxicaps 0.2 mg successively. The steady-state digoxin concentrations were statistically significantly different, being 1.3 ± 0.5 nmol/L for Lanoxin and 0.9 ± 0.4 nmol/L for Lanoxicaps (p=0.003). Whereas in young healthy volunteers the bioavailability of digoxin from Lanoxicaps (90–100 percent) exceeds that from Lanoxin (80 percent), in elderly patients the absorption appears to be similar. This suggests a lower than expected bioavailability of Lanoxicaps, which may result in subtherapeutic serum concentrations.
Brachial Plexus Palsy with the Use of Haloperidol and a Geriatric Chair
Authors: King Todd , Mallet Louise
Published: July 2017

An 81-year-old white man was admitted to an intermediate care facility because of increased wandering and confusion secondary to dementia. On the first day after admission, the patient tried to leave the facility and was hitting and kicking the employees. Haloperidol 0.5 mg tid was prescribed to help control his behavior. He became more agitated and confused; haloperidol was then increased to 1 mg qid and the patient was confined to a geriatric chair to prevent injuries. Cogwheel movements, rigidity, and marked sedation were documented. A right brachial plexus palsy was diagnosed. This case demonstrated the hazards of two commonly used interventions in a nursing home: antipsychotic agents and the geriatric chair.
Long-Term, Low-Dose Aspirin is Safe in Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency
Authors: Shalev Oded
Published: July 2017

Forty-four patients with Mediterranean-type glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency receiving long-term, low-dose aspirin were monitored over three months for evidence of hemolysis. Complete blood count, reticulocyte count and serum bilirubin were normal in all patients before treatment and upon periodic retesting. We conclude that there is sufficient current evidence to remove the hemolytic stigma of aspirin in G-6-PD deficiency, thereby establishing its safety for long-term therapy in this condition.
Intravenous Dipyridamole: Use in Thallous Chloride TL 201 Stress Imaging
Authors: Howard Patricia A.
Published: July 2017

An intravenous form of dipyridamole has been approved for cardiac stress testing with thallous chloride Tl 201 (201Tl) imaging. The procedure provides an alternative method for stress testing of patients who cannot perform strenuous physical exercise because of physical limitations or those in the immediate postinfarction period. Dipyridamole simulates the physiologic effects of physical exercise by increasing adenosine concentrations, which in turn increases coronary blood flow. Dipyridamole maximizes the differences in uptake of radioactive thallium in myocardial regions supplied by normal coronary arteries and those distal to stenosed arteries where blood flow is reduced. The sensitivity and specificity of dipyridamole–201Tl stress imaging for the detection of coronary disease are comparable to those of traditional exercise–201Tl stress testing. The intravenous dipyridamole usually is well tolerated, and the majority of adverse effects can be reversed with the administration of aminophylline.
Circularly polarized light detection in stomatopod crustaceans: a comparison of photoreceptors and possible function in six species
Authors: Templin Rachel M , How Martin J , Roberts Nicholas W , Chiou Tsyr-Huei , Marshall Justin
Published: July 2017

A combination of behavioural and electrophysiological experiments have previously shown that two species of stomatopod, Odontadactylus scyllarus and Gonodactylaceus falcatus, can differentiate between left and right handed circularly polarized light (CPL), and between CPL and linearly polarized light (LPL). It remains unknown if these visual abilities are common across all stomatopod species, and if so, how circular polarization sensitivity may vary between and within species. A sub-section of the midband, a specialized region of stomatopod eyes, contains distally placed photoreceptor cells, termed R8 (retinular cell number 8). These cells are specifically built with unidirectional microvilli and appear to be angled precisely to convert CPL into LPL. They are mostly quarter-wave retarders for human visible light (400-700nm) as well as being ultraviolet sensitive linear polarization detectors. The effectiveness of the R8 cells in this role is determined by their geometric and optical properties. In particular, the length and birefringence of the R8 cells are critical for retardation efficiency. Here, our comparative studies show that most species investigated have the theoretical ability to convert CPL into LPL, such that the handedness of an incoming circular reflection or signal could be discriminated. One species, Haptosquilla trispinosa, shows less than quarter-wave retardance. While some species are known to produce circularly polarized reflections (some Odontodactylus species and G. falcatus for example), others do not, so a variety of functions for this ability are worth considering.
Large Scale Synthesis of Nickel Oxide (Nio) by Self Propagated Combustion Reaction
Authors: Vijayadarshan P , Mohan T. , Viswanath J , Venugopal K. J , Rao N. V , Gupta Amarnath , Venkataraman A
Published: July 2017

This is a report on large scale synthesis of nickel oxide (NiO) using polyethylene glycol as a fuel employing self-propagating combustion reaction with nickel oxalate as precursor. The synthesized NiO is characterized for its crystal structure, morphology and bonding via XRD, SEM and FTIR respectively. Thermal behavior of the synthesized NiO is studied employing TGA and DSC. Super paramagnetic behavior of the synthesized is studied by magnetic hysteresis.
Carbon Fibres: Production, Properties and Potential Use
Authors: Bhatt Pooja , Goe Alka
Published: July 2017

Carbon fiber is composed of carbon atoms bonded together to form a long chain. The fibers are extremely stiff, strong, and light, and are used in many processes to create excellent building materials. Carbon fiber material comes in a variety of "raw" building-blocks, including yarns, uni-directional, weaves, braids, and several others, which are in turn used to create composite parts. The properties of a carbon fiber part are close to that of steel and the weight is close to that of plastic. Thus the strength to weight ratio (as well as stiffness to weight ratio) of a carbon fiber part is much higher than either steel or plastic. Carbon fiber is extremely strong. It is typical in engineering to measure the benefit of a material in terms of strength to weight ratio and stiffness to weight ratio, particularly in structural design, where added weight may translate into increased lifecycle costs or unsatisfactory performance.
An Elastic Moduli Independent Approximation to the Radius of Curvature of the Bimetallic strip
Authors: Khatkhate Amol , Singh R , Mirchandani P. T
Published: July 2017

A parametric approach has been used to derive an approximate formula for the prediction of the radius of curvature of a thin bimetallic strip that at initial ambient temperature, is both flat and straight, but at above ambient temperature, forms into an arc of a circle. The formula enables the evaluation of the radius of curvature of the strip as a function of heating or cooling. A formula for calculating the radius of curvature of a bimetallic strip already exists, and was produced by Timoshenko in his paper on Bimetallic Thermostats. The formula by Timoshenko has been vigorously tested, tried and proven and accepted in countless papers and journals since its original publication. The parametric approach solution introduced in this work gives an approximate solution to the Timoshenko formula for equal thicknesses of two mating metals within the bimetallic. The Khatkhate Singh Mirchandani (KSM) formula presented here is taken from the first order approximation derived by Angel and Haritos by incorporating the ratio of Young's modulus of the bimetallic materials. Furthermore, researchers in this area have proven that the Young's modulus does not have a significant effect on the radius of curvature. Taking this fact into consideration, the authors have suitably incorporated a correction modifier purely based on the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the materials. The simulation results and the overall close agreement with the Timoshenko formula has been put forward here. Also, the solution derived by the authors Khatkhate et.al shows better prediction as compared to the solutions derived by other researchers.
Laboratory work as a teaching method: A historical case study of the institutionalization of laboratory science in Japan
Authors: Isozaki Tetsuo
Published: July 2017

Practical work, including laboratory work, has been part of science education for more than a century, and is considered an essential component of science teaching. This paper uses historical insights to demonstrate that there is a pressing need to critically examine the role of laboratory work in science teaching. The author performed a historical case study of laboratory work in Japan from the 1880s to the 1930s. Given that the West, particularly the United Kingdom and United States, has influenced Japanese education since Japan began to modernize in the late 19th century, this study refers to the history of those nations with respect to laboratory work, and compares their educational system to that of Japan. The author concludes that practical work (including laboratory work) should be considered a means to an end - not an end in itself - with teachers sufficiently educated/trained in both science and pedagogy, functioning as facilitators who provide students with learning support. Without enthusiastic and knowledgeable teachers, the benefits of quality facilities and an established system cannot be fully realized. Thus, in conducting practical work, emphasis ought to be placed on its purpose and what students can learn from the experience - not on merely the actions they perform in conducting such work.
Lentiviral vectors escape innate sensing but trigger p53 in human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Piras Francesco , Riba Michela , Petrillo Carolina , Lazarevic Dejan , Cuccovillo Ivan , Bartolaccini Sara , Stupka Elia , Gentner Bernhard , Cittaro Davide , Naldini Luigi , Kajaste‐Rudnitski Anna
Published: July 2017

Clinical application of lentiviral vector (LV)‐based hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) gene therapy is rapidly becoming a reality. Nevertheless, LV‐mediated signaling and its potential functional consequences on HSPC biology remain poorly understood. We unravel here a remarkably limited impact of LV on the HSPC transcriptional landscape. LV escaped innate immune sensing that instead led to robust IFN responses upon transduction with a gamma‐retroviral vector. However, reverse‐transcribed LV DNA did trigger p53 signaling, activated also by non‐integrating Adeno‐associated vector, ultimately leading to lower cell recovery ex vivo and engraftment in vivo. These effects were more pronounced in the short‐term repopulating cells while long‐term HSC frequencies remained unaffected. Blocking LV‐induced signaling partially rescued both apoptosis and engraftment, highlighting a novel strategy to further dampen the impact of ex vivo gene transfer on HSPC. Overall, our results shed light on viral vector sensing in HSPC and provide critical insight for the development of more stealth gene therapy strategies.
Superextensions of three-element semigroups
Authors: Gavrylkiv V.M.
Published: July 2017

A family $\mathcal{A}$ of non-empty subsets of a set $X$ is called an upfamily if for each set $A\in\mathcal{A}$ any set $B\supset A$ belongs to $\mathcal{A}$. An upfamily $\mathcal L$ of subsets of $X$ is said to be linked if $A\cap B\ne\emptyset$ for all $A,B\in\mathcal L$. A linked upfamily $\mathcal M$ of subsets of $X$ is maximal linked if $\mathcal M$ coincides with each linked upfamily $\mathcal L$ on $X$ that contains $\mathcal M$. The superextension $\lambda(X)$ consists of all maximal linked upfamilies on $X$. Any associative binary operation $* : X\times X \to X$ can be extended to an associative binary operation $\circ: \lambda(X)\times\lambda(X)\to\lambda(X)$ by the formula $\mathcal L\circ\mathcal M=\Big\langle\bigcup_{a\in L}a*M_a:L\in\mathcal L,\;\{M_a\}_{a\in L}\subset\mathcal M\Big\rangle$ for maximal linked upfamilies $\mathcal{L}, \mathcal{M}\in\lambda(X)$. In the paper we describe superextensions of all three-element semigroups up to isomorphism.
Boundary problem for the singular heat equation
Authors: Makhnei O.V.
Published: July 2017

The scheme for solving of a mixed problem with general boundary conditions is proposed for a heat equation \[a(x)\frac{\partial T}{\partial \tau}= \frac{\partial}{\partial x} \left(\lambda(x)\frac{\partial T}{\partial x}\right)\] with coefficient $a(x)$ that is thegeneralized derivative of a function of bounded variation, $\lambda(x)>0$, $\lambda^{-1}(x)$ is a bounded and measurable function. The boundary conditions have the form $$\left\{ \begin{array}{l}p_{11}T(0,\tau)+p_{12}T^{[1]}_x (0,\tau)+ q_{11}T(l,\tau)+q_{12}T^{[1]}_x (l,\tau)= \psi_1(\tau),\\p_{21}T(0,\tau)+p_{22}T^{[1]}_x (0,\tau)+ q_{21}T(l,\tau)+q_{22}T^{[1]}_x (l,\tau)= \psi_2(\tau),\end{array}\right.$$ where by $T^{[1]}_x (x,\tau)$ we denote the quasiderivative $\lambda(x)\frac{\partial T}{\partial x}$. A solution of this problem seek by thereduction method in the form of sum of two functions $T(x,\tau)=u(x,\tau)+v(x,\tau)$. This method allows to reduce solving of proposed problem to solving oftwo problems: a quasistationary boundary problem with initialand boundary conditions for the search of the function $u(x,\tau)$ and a mixed problem with zero boundaryconditions for some inhomogeneous equation with an unknown function $v(x,\tau)$. The first of these problems is solved through the introduction of the quasiderivative. Fourier method andexpansions in eigenfunctions of some boundary value problem forthe second-order quasidifferential equation $(\lambda(x)X'(x))'+ \omega a(x)X(x)=0$ are used for solving of the second problem. The function $v(x,\tau)$ is represented as a series in eigenfunctions of this boundary value problem. The results can be used in the investigation process of heat transfer in a multilayer plate.
Approximation of capacities with additive measures
Authors: Nykyforchyn O.R. , Hlushak I.D.
Published: July 2017

For a space of non-additive regular measures on a metric compactum with the Prokhorov-style metric, it is shown that the problem of approximation of arbitrary measure with an additive measure on a fixed finite subspace reduces to linear optimization problem with parameters dependent on the values of the measure on a finite number of sets.

An algorithm for such an approximation, which is more efficient than the straighforward usage of simplex method, is presented.
A note on the necessity of filtering mechanism for polynomial observability of time-discrete wave equation
Authors: Hajjej Z.
Published: July 2017

The problem of uniform polynomial observability was recently analyzed. It is shown that, when the continuous model is uniformly polynomially observable, it is sufficient to filter initial data to derive uniform polynomial observability inequalities for suitable time-discretization schemes. In this note, we prove that a filtering mechanism of high frequency modes is necessary to obtain uniform polynomial observability.

More precisely, we give a counterexample which proves that this latter fails without filtering the initial data for time semi-discrete approximations of the wave equation.
WELCOME FROM THE STREAM EDITOR: LEARNING ANALYTICS IN ONLINE EDUCATION
Authors: Gunawardena Ananda
Published: July 2017

Analytics is the discovery and communication of meaningful patterns in data. Businesses have used analytics for years to improve their products and customer satisfaction. Now it is time for education to use analytics to improve teaching and learning. Analytics can also be used to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of delivery of educational content. In this editorial, we address some key areas of educational analytics.
Decreased Expression of Connexin 43 Blunts the Progression of Experimental GN
Authors: Kavvadas Panagiotis , Abed Ahmed , Poulain Coralie , Authier Florence , Labéjof Lise-Paule , Calmont Amelie , Afieri Carlo , Prakoura Niki , Dussaule Jean-Claude , Chatziantoniou Christos , Chadjichristos Christos E.
Published: July 2017

GN refers to a variety of renal pathologies that often progress to ESRD, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this progression remain incompletely characterized. Here, we determined whether dysregulated expression of the gap junction protein connexin 43, which has been observed in the progression of renal disease, contributes to GN progression. Immunostaining revealed de novo expression of connexin 43 in damaged glomeruli in patients with glomerular diseases as well as in mice after induction of experimental GN. Notably, 2 weeks after the induction of GN with nephrotoxic serum, mice with a heterozygous deletion of the connexin 43 gene (connexin 43+/−) had proteinuria, BUN, and serum creatinine levels significantly lower than those of wild-type animals. Additionally, the connexin 43+/− mice showed less crescent formation, tubular dilation, monocyte infiltration, and interstitial renal fibrosis. Treatment of cultured podocytes with connexin 43–specific blocking peptides attenuated TGF-β–induced cytoskeletal and morphologic changes and apoptosis as did treatment with the purinergic blocker suramin. Finally, therapeutic treatment of GN mice with connexin 43–specific antisense oligodeoxynucleotide improved functional and structural renal parameters. These findings suggest that crosstalk between connexin 43 and purinergic signaling contributes to podocyte damage in GN. Given that this protein is highly induced in individuals with glomerular diseases, connexin 43 may be a novel target for therapeutic treatment of GN.
Estudo Retrospectivo das Ocorrências de Crimes Contra a Fauna Atendidos pela Policia Militar Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo, 2012 – 2015
Authors: Raissa Marques Beck  , Servio Túlio Jacinto Reis  , Noeme Sousa Rocha
Published: July 2017

O tráfico de animais é uma constante preocupação ambiental. Tendo em vista a dificuldade enfrentada pelas polícias e agências ambientais em impedir essa modalidade delituosa, tornam-se prementes os esforços das autoridades mundiais, mediante trabalhos de inteligência, análises de dados e estudos científicos, para o estabelecimento de novas políticas de combate. O Brasil, por ser detentor de uma grande parcela da biodiversidade mundial, associado a fatores socioculturais locais, se tornou um dos protagonistas no cenário mundial do tráfico de animais. A rede de tráfico em intensa mutabilidade dificulta a fiscalização e eficiência das estratégias utilizadas pelas polícias, sendo extremamente necessário o estudo constante dos dados gerados pelas ocorrências em busca de uma identidade do tráfico de animais. O presente trabalho resultou de uma parceria com a Polícia Militar Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo e, a partir da análise dos bancos de dados da instituição, apresenta um estudo retrospectivo das ocorrências de crimes contra a fauna no estado de São Paulo nos anos de 2012 a 2015, fundamentado nos preceitos da criminalística, visando fomentar futuras diretrizes de combate ao tráfico de animais no estado de São Paulo e no Brasil.
A Nyírség tölgy-kőris-szil ligetei (Fraxino pannonicae-Ulmetum Soó in Aszód 1935 corr. Soó 1963)
Authors: Kevey Balázs , Papp László , Lendvai Gábor
Published: July 2017

Jelen tanulmány Magyarország keleti részén, a Nyírség tölgy-kőris-szil ligeterde­inek társulási viszonyait mutatja be 75 cönológiai felvétel alapján. Mérsékelten talajvíz által befo­lyásolt, azonális asszociációval állunk szemben. Állományaikban feltűnőek egyes szubmontán elemek, amelyek az Alföldön általában ritkák. Különösen a Fagetalia elemek gyakorisága jellem­ző: Actaea spicata, Allium ursinum, Anemone ranunculoides, Asarum europaeum, Athyrium filix-femina, Cardamine bulbifera, Carex pilosa, Cerastium sylvaticum, Chaerophyllum aromaticum, Corydalis cava, Corydalis solida, Dryopteris filix-mas, Epipactis helleborine agg., Euphorbia amygdaloides, Galeobdolon luteum, Galium odoratum, Hedera helix, Isopyrum thalictroides, Lathraea squamaria, Lathyrus vernus, Lilium martagon, Maianthemum bifolium, Mercurialis perennis, Milium effusum, Polygonatum multiflorum, Pulmonaria officinalis, Ranunculus cassubicus, Salvia glutinosa, Sanicula europaea, Scilla vindobonensis, Stachys sylvatica, Stellaria holostea stb. E növények főleg a Nyírség keleti részén fordulnak elő, s valószínűleg az egykori hűvösebb, csapa­dékosabb és kiegyenlítettebb klímájú „Bükk I. kor” (i.e. 2500-tól i.e. 800-ig) maradványfajai.
Az ELTE Füvészkert herbáriuma (BPU)
Authors: Nótári Krisztina , Nagy Timea , Löki Viktor , Ljubka Tibor , Molnár V. Attila , Takács Attila
Published: July 2017

Dolgozatunk az ELTE Füvészkert herbáriumát (BPU) mutatja be annak 2013-as állapota alapján. A herbárium kb. 16 000 példányáról készült fényképekről a cédulákon szereplő adatokat OpenOffice Calc táblázatba rögzítettük. Összesen 16 európai országból származnak a lapok. Ezek közel 80%-a magyarországi, 12%-a romániai, 5%-a szlovákiai. A hazai példányok közel 70%-a Pest, Veszprém, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén, Hajdú-Bihar és Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg megyéből származik. Az 1850 és 2007 között keletkezett példányok több mint 70%-át 1931 és 1960 között gyűjtötték. A példányok harmadát Soó Rezső gyűjtötte, de kiemelkedő Felföldy Lajos, Simon Tibor és Priszter Szaniszló hozzájárulása is. Felföldy Lajos és Simon Tibor több mint 60 éven át gyarapították a gyűjteményt. Az adatbázis magyarországi, nem kultivációból származó példányainak főbb adatait elektronikus mellékletben szabad felhasználásra közreadjuk, igény szerint részletesebb adatokat is közlünk.
Egyéves füzények (Lythrum) Magyarországon: a Hyssopifolia alnemzetség hazai adatainak revíziója
Authors: Mesterházy Attila
Published: July 2017

Magyarország területéről eddig az apró termetű, egyéves füzények 4 fajának előfordu­lását közölték. A Lythrum hyssopifolia az ország nagy részén elterjedt. A L. tribracteatum jóval ritkább, előfordulásai főként a Tiszántúl déli részére és a Duna mentére korlátozódnak. A belső-ázsiai elterjedé­sű lenlevelű füzény (L. linifolium) egyetlen európai adata hazánkból származik. Az 1954-ben Tiszaug mellett gyűjtött példány azonban több jellegében is eltér a lenlevelű füzénytől, viszont nagyfo­kú egyezést mutat a Mediterráneumban és a kelet-európai sztyeprégióban élő L. borysthenicum-mal. Ez alapján javasoljuk a L. linfolium törlését a hazai és az európai flórából egyaránt. A negyedik hazai taxon (L. thesioides) egykori magyarországi előfordulását (Nagytétény) herbáriumi példányok bizonyítják, de a faj jelenlegi előfordulása bizonytalan.
Immuno-Gold Labelling if Mycoplasma iowae for Light Microscopy
Authors: Shareef Jalal
Published: July 2017

Mycoplasma iowae is an egg transmitted organism with serotypes previously known as I,J,K,N,Q and R. Some members of this group are embryo lethal for turkey poults and chicks and cause low hatchability. Culture methods have been known to be unreliable for monitoring M. iowae in natural infection due to intermittent spread and the unpredictable nature of this organism. in the present work M. iowae was isolated from vaginal and cloacal swabs of a naturally infected turkey hen. An immuno-gold light microscopy technique was utilized for identification of the organism in situ. The technique is being used to study the relationship between M. iowae and the tissues of the reproductive tracts of turkey. Photographs of the histology of infected turkey hen reproductive system are presented, as well as photographs of gold-labelled M. iowae microcolonies close to epithelial cell in tissues.
Effect of Sowing Dates and Seeding Rates in Yield and its Components of Triticale in Rainfed Region
Authors: I. Tofique , J.J. Mohamad , A. Rasool
Published: July 2017

This investigation was carried out during two winter seasons (1992/1993 and 1993/1994) to determine the optimum time of sowing and seeding rate, of triticale, cultivar Rowaida which ensure maximum yield under rainfed region.

Results showed that the optimum time of sowing triticale is during 15th October. until 15th November. The delay beyond that period resulted in decreasing the yield and its component. The reasonable seeding rates were 160 - 200 kg/ha.
Ear Development of some Local and Australian wheat Varieties in Different Temperature Regimes
Authors: Rashid Ahmad
Published: July 2017

The effects of three day/night temperature regimes (15/10, 20/15, and 25/20 for 12/12 hr) on growth and development of ears in eight varieties of two groups of wheat (Local and Australian) Triticum aestivum L. wears studied in laboratory.

The results showed that the spikelet number increased slightly by increasing temperature from 15/10 up to 20/15 c. Whereas, further increase in temperature decreased it in most varieties. the rate of spiklelet initiation was also enhanced, but almost the duration of the vegetative and spikelet phases and the apex length at flower initiation reduced in almost all varieties when the temperature was increased to 20/15 c. With further increase in temperature, the rate of spikelet initiation and apex length decreased in all varieties, but the duration of vegetative and spikelet phases either increased or slightly changed.

In general, the superiority of Australian varieties was evident. Moreover, the correlation between some plant characters were shown.
Effect of soaking seeds in solutions of some growth regulators on germination rate, vegetative and flowering growth, quantity and quality of okra crop.
Authors: Hussein Mohammed , Khoshnaw Kamal
Published: July 2017

The study targeted the effect of some growth regulators on okra plants, where the treatment with gibberellin acid GA3 (1000,500 ppm) led to a significant increase in the percentage of seed germination, plant height, number of leaves/plant percentage of aborted flowers, pod length and weight, average number of Seeds per pod, the average number of pods/plant and the amount of yield, while treatment with indole acetic acid (IAA 1000, 500 ppm) led to a significant increase only in the number of aborted flowers, the mean weight of pods and the amount of yield, as for the effect of ABA (1000 , 500 parts per million), it reduced the percentage of seed germination, the weight and length of the pod, the average number of seeds per pod and increased the number of leaves / plant and total flowers in a significant way and did not affect the average number of pods / plant while the three organizations did not have a significant effect Ali Qatr Qurna.
Effect of bacterial inoculation and phosphate fertilization on growth and yield of lentils
Authors: Fattah Omer , Tofiq Sherwan
Published: July 2017

A field experiment was conducted during two consecutive winter seasons 90/91 - 91/92 in the rainy region of Bakra Jaw, in order to study the response of lentils to inoculation with the specialized streptococcus bacterium Rhizobium leguminosarum at two levels (without inoculation and inoculation with bacteria) and mineral phosphate fertilization at five levels. :(0, 30, 60, 90, 12 kg P2O5/ha) on the formation of root nodes and some growth characteristics and local yield of lentils (Lens culinaris (Medic). The results of this study indicated that pollinated plants were significantly superior to non-pollinated plants in average plant length (cm), dry matter weight/plant (g), number of root nodes/plant, seed yield (kg/ha), number of pods/plant, and weight of one thousand seeds. (gm), while the bacterial inoculation and the interaction between treatments did not have a significant effect on the average number of branches / plant and the number of seeds / pod for both seasons, as for the effect of phosphate fertilization, the results indicate that the fertilization was at a rate of 90 kg P2O5 / ha Significant effect on all the studied traits, except for the average number of seeds/pod, for both seasons.
Strength of fiber reinforced high-strength concrete with stirrups under direct shear
Authors: Saeed S. , Sarhat S.
Published: July 2017

The paper presents an experimental investigation of the direct shear transfer behavior of fiber reinforced high-strength concrete.

 The experimental study was performed on steel fiber reinforced push-off specimens with or without conventional stirrups.

For the specimens with plain steel fibers, significant increases in the shear strength of high-strength concrete were observed. In the tests involving the combination of steel fibers and conventional stirrups, major improvement in crack control and enhancement in shear strength were observed.
Technical Note:Curve fitting, for: {T} type thermocouple {Copper-constamtine}
Authors: Zewar Sardar
Published: July 2017

An empirical formula has been obtained mathematically to be used in determination of temperature, which is dtermined from the thermocouple output for (T) type (Copper - Constantan).
Study of the effect of some different growth regulators and light and dark factors on the percentage of germination of local lettuce seeds (Lactuca Sativa)
Authors: Hussein Mohammed
Published: July 2017

This study aimed at the effect of different concentrations of the growth regulators gibberellin acid GA3 and indole acetic acid IAA each with three concentrations in addition to the comparison treatment with the effect of light and dark factors on the germination rate of lettuce seeds of the local variety, where GA3 led to a significant increase compared to the control treatment, especially At a concentration of 1000ppm in the dark, while IAA led to an increase in the percentage of germination, but in a non-significant manner, as for the factors of light and darkness, the percentage of germination increased significantly in the dark compared to the light treatment.