bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of aminophylline on the pharmacokinetics of amikacin in Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Amponsah Seth Kwabena , Opuni Kwabena Frimpong-Manso , Antwi Kwabena Aboagye , Kunkpeh Victor Pouzuing
Published: March 2019

Introduction: In most resource-poor settings, amikacin is normally co-administered with aminophylline among preterm newborns with infection and apnea of prematurity. There is the likelihood of an interaction between concurrently administered amikacin that is excreted almost solely via kidneys, and aminophylline, which is known to increase filtration fraction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of aminophylline on the pharmacokinetics of amikacin using an animal model.

Methodology: Twelve male Sprague-Dawley rats (7 – 8 weeks old) were put into 2 equal groups. The test group received amikacin (10 mg/kg/day) with aminophylline (5 mg/kg/day) via the intraperitoneal route, and the control group received only amikacin (10 mg/kg/day) via the same route. On Day 4, after daily administration of drugs, tail vein blood samples were collected at different time points. Serum samples at each time point for each group were pooled and analyzed by fluorescence polarization immunoassay. Non-compartment pharmacokinetic analysis was used to estimate pharmacokinetic parameters. Area under the concentration-time curves (AUCs) were extrapolated from time 0 to infinity (AUC0→∞). Elimination rate constant (Ke) and elimination half-life (t1/2e) were also estimated.

Results: Pharmacokinetic parameters of the control group (amikacin only) vis-a-vis the test group were as follows: Cmax; 42.4 μmol/L vs 19.0 μmol/L, AUC0→∞; 84.9 μmol/L/h vs 41.4 μmol/L/h, Ke; 0.12 hours-1 vs 0.24 hours-1, and t1/2; 5.87 hours vs 2.88 hours, respectively.

Conclusion: This study suggests possible interaction between aminophylline and amikacin. However, further studies need to be conducted in humans to ascertain this finding.
Dengue in the campus community of an overseas American university: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Mohammed Hamish , Hayden Mary H , Lee Elise , Santiago Luis M , Krecek Rosina C , Revan Floyd , Hunsperger Elizabeth
Published: March 2019

Introduction: After a large outbreak of dengue virus (DENV) serotype-3 in Saint Kitts and Nevis (SKN) in 2008, we performed a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of anti-DENV immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in expatriate and local persons affiliated with an American veterinary school there.

Methodology: This campus community comprised mostly expatriate students and faculty and Kittitian administrative staff. In 2009, a stratified random sample of students, faculty and staff was invited to complete an electronic survey to assess risk factors for DENV and provide blood for testing for anti-DENV IgG antibodies by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. IgG-positive specimens were also tested by a 90% plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT90) to determine immunoreactivity to DENV (1-4) serotypes and West Nile virus. Risk factors for anti-DENV IgG seropositivity were determined using simple and adjusted logistic regression.

Results: Of the 118 participants, the overall prevalence of DENV IgG antibodies was 44.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 35.1-53.0%), ranging from 30.1% in students, 100.0% in staff and 57.9% in faculty (p < 0.001). Duration of residence in St. Kitts was the only variable significantly associated with seropositivity on multiple logistic regression (adjusted odds ratio [95% CI]: 1.21 [1.07-1.37]). The serotype of DENV was determined in 11 persons: DENV-1 (n = 4), DENV-2 (n = 3), and DENV-3 (n = 4).

Conclusions: Expatriate students and faculty moving to St. Kitts from non-endemic areas were at high risk of DENV infection. There is a need for increased emphasis on pre-travel mosquito-borne virus prevention education for persons moving to St. Kitts to study and work.
Booster immunity – diagnosis of chronic hepatitis B viral infection
Authors: Komitova Radka T , Kevorkyan Ani K , Atanasova Maria V , Ivanova Aneta V , Golkocheva-Markova Elica
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Diagnosis of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection particularly its occult form requires monitoring and repeat serological and molecular studies. The aim of the study was to investigate the possible relation between the case of a family outbreak of hepatitis A and the finding that a member of this family was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B.

Methodology: A mother and her two sons, one previously diagnosed with chronic HBV infection, were hospitalized due to suspected acute hepatitis. Serological markers for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C were assessed. Additionally, HBV DNA was tested with a sensitive PCR. Hepatitis B vaccine was administered to the mother to differentiate resolved from occult HBV infection.

Results: A family outbreak of hepatitis A was confirmed, alongside a focus of chronic HBV infection. The serological profile for two brothers was HBsAg(+), anti-HBcIgM(-), anti-HBc(+), HBcAg(-)/anti-HBe(+). The mother was negative for all HBV markers except anti-HBc. HBV DNA was detected at a level of 461 IU/mL in the elder brother, 3647 IU/mL in the younger brother and was negative in the mother on two occasions. Her anti-HBc alone, having two sons with chronic HBV infection, and her lack of antibody response to hepatitis B vaccine despite being negative for HBV DNA, led to the diagnosis of probable occult HBV infection.

Conclusion: Our results confirmed that a vaccination approach could facilitate diagnosis of chronic HBV infection in the presence of isolated anti-HBc. If it were not for a family outbreak of hepatitis A, this unexpected family HBV focus would not have been revealed.
Evaluation of Rationality of Geriatric Patients’ Prescription Based On Beers Criteria in a Tertiary Care Hospital in India
Authors: Motallebzadeh Nader , Jayaprakash Geetha , Mohammadi Elham
Published: March 2019

AIM: Irrational prescribing for geriatric patients has become an important public health problem worldwide. Because India is one of the most populated countries having a great proportion of old people in the world, studies on the prevalence of inappropriate prescriptions can be very beneficial to increase the knowledge of health care providers and to reduce the occurrence of adverse drug events among this population.
METHODS: A group of 482 inpatients above 64 years old were enrolled in a prospective study. Chart review method was used. The data were collected from patients’ prescription and medicine charts. Each prescription was checked individually for the inappropriate drug by using the AGS 2015 Updated Beers Criteria for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults. Suggestions were given to the physicians for inappropriate medications.
RESULTS: The prevalence of potentially inappropriate medication is found to be 11.66% (n = 56). Out of 56 inappropriate medications, the most frequently inappropriate medication is Digoxin (25%) followed by Sprinolactone 19.64%. This study founds age, some medication, length of stay and number of diagnosis as predictors for getting a PIM. Feedback of the physicians varies based on the suggestions.
CONCLUSION: This study concludes that the prevalence of PIMs among geriatrics patients of ≥ 65 years old is 11.66%. Some predictors have been identified for getting a PIM. This study shows that physicians’ feedback is dependent on the suggestions being given.
Prevalence and Correlation between Diet and Dysmenorrhea among High School and College Students in Saint Vincent and Grenadines
Authors: Monday Ifure , Anthony Precious , Olunu Esther , Otohinoyi David , Abiodun Silas , Owolabi Akinyomade , Mobolaji Blessing , Fakoya Adegbenro Omotuyi John
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND: Dysmenorrhea occurs as one of the symptoms of menstruation. While not necessarily a condition that plagues every woman, it is known to cause significant distress. Absenteeism from school and work as well as general discomfort are some of its adverse effects.
AIM: This study aims to investigate the effects of certain diets on the prevalence and severity of dysmenorrhea.
METHODS: Questionnaires was given to 478 women ranging from ages 1-55. The survey was centred around the age of menarche, presence and incidence of dysmenorrhea as well as how it is related to certain diets.
RESULTS: Majority of the participants (81.74%) belonged to the age groups of 11-15 and 16-20. 45.5% of the participants attested to dysmenorrhea at each menstrual cycle. statistical correlation between diet and dysmenorrhea was insignificant (p > 0.05). Consumption of caffeinated beverages correlated with dysmenorrhea (p < 0.05). Although not statistically significant (p > 0.05), the study reported dysmenorrhea in a large proportion of participants who consumed high quantities of sugars.
CONCLUSION: No relationship was established between diet and the incidence and severity of dysmenorrhea amongst the sample screened in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. However, it appears that diet high in sugars might benefit from further research.
Complications and Risks of Percutaneous Renal Biopsy
Authors: Trajceska Lada , Severova-Andreevska Galina , Dzekova-Vidimliski Pavlina , Nikolov Igor , Selim Gjulsen , Spasovski Goce , Rambabova-Busljetik Irena , Ristovska Vesna , Grcevska Ladislava , Sikole Aleksandar
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND: Renal biopsy performed in native and transplant kidneys is generally considered a safe procedure.
AIM: In this study, we evaluated renal biopsy complications and risk factors in one nephrology facility.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a three-year retrospective study on patients who underwent renal biopsy between January 2014 and December 2016. Strict written biopsy protocol was followed. Clinical and laboratory data were obtained from medical charts. Complications were categorised as minor and major, according to the need for intervention. Minor complications included macrohematuria and/or hematoma that did not require intervention. Major complications included hematuria or hematoma with fall of hematocrit that required a blood transfusion, surgery or caused death. A binary logistic regression model was used to analyse the possible factors associated with complications after the biopsy.
RESULTS: We analysed 345 biopsies; samples were taken from patients aged from 15-81 years, of whom 61% were men. A total of 21 (6%) patients developed a complication, 4.4% minor and 1.7% major complications. There were no nephrectomy or death due to biopsy intervention. Overweight patients, as well as those with higher creatinine, lower hemoglobin, higher blood pressure and biopsy due to AKI had higher chances to develop complications (p = 0.037, p = 0.023, p = 0.032, p = 0.002, p = 0.002, respectively). The patients’ age, gender, kidney dimension, number of passes and uninterrupted aspirin therapy were not found as significant predictors of complications. In the multivariate logistic model, body weight (OR = 1.031, 95%CI = 1.002-1.062), lower hemoglobin (OR = 0.973, 95%CI = 0.951–0.996) and hypertension (OR = 1.025, 95%CI = 1.007-1.044) increased the risk of complications in biopsied patients.
CONCLUSION: Renal biopsy is a safe procedure with a low risk of complications when strict biopsy protocol is observed. Correction of anaemia and blood pressure is to be considered before the biopsy.
The Influence of Small, Midi, Medium and Large Fields of View on Accuracy of Linear Measurements in CBCT Imaging: Diagnostic Accuracy Study
Authors: Elshenawy Hanaa , Aly Wessam , Salah Nashwa , Nasry Sherine , Anter Enas , Ekram Khalid
Published: March 2019

AIM: This study aimed to assess the effect of changing the field of view on the dimensional accuracy of CBCT imaging.
METHODS: The implant-bone models were randomly numbered from 1 to 13 by the principal researcher, and then on each model at the incisors region three positions were selected and marked on the model with a permanent blue marker. Then at each marked position three radio-opaque ‘RO’ markers “gutta-percha pieces” were glued on the model surfaces as following; two pieces on the facial surface one occlusally (at the alveolar crest) and one apically (at the inferior border of the model) both were on the same vertical line and perpendicular to the horizontal plane, while the third one was placed on the lingual surface opposing the occlusally placed buccal piece. CBCT examinations of each bone model were performed using Cranex3Dx CBCT (Helsinki, Finland) machine. Each model was scanned four times with standardised tube current and voltage of 12.5 mA and 90 kVp respectively at four different FOVs. The FOVs used were as following: Small FOV: 50 x 50 mm with voxel size 200 µm, Midi FOV: 61 x 78 mm with voxel size 300 µm, Medium FOV: 78 x 78 mm with voxel size 300 µm, Large FOV: 78 x 150 mm with voxel size 350 µm. The reference standard in this study was the real linear measurements that were obtained directly on the implant-bone models using high precision sliding electronic digital calliper with 0-150 mm internal and external measuring range and 0.01 mm resolution accuracy. The index test in the current study was the CBCT linear measurements obtained from CBCT images of implant-bone models using small, midi, medium and large FOVs.
RESULTS: The results of this study showed that both medium and large FOVs showed a statistically significant difference, which could be translated into clinical relevance only in thickness measurements.
CONCLUSION: The interpretation of these results leads to the assumption that increasing the FOV size together with voxel size could adversely affect the accuracy of CBCT linear measurements, especially when small distances are to be assessed.
Multiellipsoidal extended target tracking with known extent using sequential Monte Carlo framework
Authors: KARA SÜLEYMAN FATİH , ÖZKAN EMRE
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we consider a variant of the extended target tracking (ETT) problem, namely the multiel- lipsoidal ETT problem. In multiellipsoidal ETT, target extent is represented by multiple ellipses, which correspond to the origin of the measurements on the target surface. The problem involves estimating the target’s kinematic state and solving the association problem between the measurements and the ellipses. We cast the problem in a sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) framework and investigate different marginalization strategies to find an efficient particle filter. Under the known extent assumption, we define association variables to find the correct association between the measurements and the ellipses; hence, the posterior involves both discrete and continuous random variables. By expressing the measurement likelihood as a mixture of Gaussians we derive and employ a marginalized particle filter for the independent association variables without sampling the discrete states. We compare the performance of the method with its alternatives and illustrate the gain in nonstandard marginalization.
Design of Students’ Spoken English Pronunciation Training System Based on Computer VB Platform
Authors: Jin Yanju
Published: March 2019

Spoken English communication is most commonly used in the international communication. However, the accuracy of spoken English pronunciation is the key factor to restrict English learners in China. For the current situation that spoken English proficiency is generally low in China, this paper aims to design a spoken English pronunciation training system that will provide guidance and help for English learners’ spoken pronunciation. The Visual Basic platform is used in the design of the system. This paper first conducts an in-depth study on the related theories of voice recognition, discusses the correction algorithm of voice scoring and pronunciation, and puts forward more practical and convenient AP-based scoring method, providing full theoretical support for the design of the system. Then through the function analysis and design of the spoken English pronunciation training system, this paper realizes the system design of scoring and correcting errors of English spoken pronunciation based on the VB platform. The system boasts the basic functions, including English phonetic symbols and word pronunciation to follow, real-time voice evaluation, and pronunciation error correction. According to the test, the similarity of the system with the experts is over 90% in scoring and its efficiency of pronunciation error correction reaches 80%, which plays a certain role in improving spoken English of English learners.
Application of Computer Data Analysis Technology in the Development of a Physical Education Examination Platform
Authors: Cheng Fan , Yin Yiwei
Published: March 2019

This physical education assessment platform is designed based on the data min-ing technology to address a number of problems like large workload in the actual physical education performance examination of school students so as to help teachers offer individualized teaching. In the design and development of the com-puter-data-analysis-based physical education assessment platform, this paper adopts the ASP.NET technology and employs the three-layer architecture. The application of this platform can help solve the problems currently existing in the physical education management and realize information-based and automated physical education performance examination.
A Novel Machine Translation Method based on Stochastic Finite Automata Model for Spoken English
Authors: Li Huiyan
Published: March 2019

Stochastic finite automata have been applied to a variety of fields, machine trans-lation is one of them. It can learn from data and build model automatically from training sets. Stochastic finite automata are well adapted for the constrained inte-gration of pairs of sentences for language processing. In this paper, a novel ma-chine translation method based on stochastic finite automata is proposed. The method formalized rational grammars by using stochastic finite automata. Through given pairs of source and target utterances, our proposed method will produce a series of conventional rules from which a stochastic rational grammar would be inferred, and the grammar is finally converted into a finite state automa-ton. The efficacy and accuracy of our proposed method is evaluated by a large number of English-Chinese and Chinese-English machine translation experi-ments.
Innovation as economic power in Global Value Chains
Authors: Rikap Cecilia
Published: March 2019

Global Value Chains (GVC) have been criticized for assuming power relations mainly based on empirical analyses. Although some authors focus on entry barriers to explain the emergence of market-power, those barriers’ porosity contradicts the sole entry barriers argument. We explore this genesis of power between enterprises and their effects to better understand GVC dynamics in general, and Apple Inc.’s chain in particular. We suggest that monopolizing innovations can be conceived as a self-reinforcing source of power capable of overcoming entry barriers’ porosity. In this context, we state that the long term dynamic of GVC centrally depends on the capacity of the leader to keep its innovation’s monopoly. We also suggest a typology of subordinated firms useful for understanding the different participants of Apple Inc.’s GVC.JEL classification : F23, F50, O34.
Leptin Promotes Monosodium Urate Crystal–Induced Inflammation in Human and Murine Models of Gout
Authors: Yu Yiyun , Yang Jie , Fu Sisi , Xue Yu , Liang Minrui , Xuan Dandan , Zhu Xiaoxia , Wan Weiguo , Lv Ling , Zou Hejian
Published: March 2019

Gouty arthritis is an inflammatory disease that is triggered by abnormal uric acid metabolism, which is usually attributed to obesity, a risk factor of hyperuricemia and gout attack. A high level of leptin in plasma is a marker of individuals with obesity. Population studies show that leptin promotes obesity-related arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, but it is unknown whether leptin contributes to gouty arthritis, another form of obesity-related arthritis. Our present study showed that the levels of leptin and leptin receptor in patients with active gouty arthritis were elevated. Leptin facilitates the stimulation of human synoviocytes, mouse peritoneal macrophages, and HL-60 cells induced by monosodium urate, leading to higher levels of acute gout-related proinflammatory factors. Leptin obviously exacerbates the inflammation of monosodium urate–induced acute gouty arthritis in wild-type mice, whereas that in leptin-deficient C57BL6/Job/ob mice is markedly alleviated. The proinflammatory effect of leptin in acute gouty arthritis is partly mediated by mTORC1 signaling pathway. Our study reveals that leptin may serve as a novel prevention and treatment target in acute gouty arthritis.
Epitope Selection for HLA-DQ2 Presentation: Implications for Celiac Disease and Viral Defense
Authors: Hung Shu-Chen , Hou Tieying , Jiang Wei , Wang Nan , Qiao Shuo-Wang , Chow I-Ting , Liu Xiaodan , van der Burg Sjoerd H. , Koelle David M. , Kwok William W. , Sollid Ludvig M. , Mellins Elizabeth D.
Published: March 2019

We have reported that the major histocompatibility molecule HLA-DQ2 (DQA1*05:01/DQB1*02:01) (DQ2) is relatively resistant to HLA-DM (DM), a peptide exchange catalyst for MHC class II. In this study, we analyzed the role of DQ2/DM interaction in the generation of DQ2-restricted gliadin epitopes, relevant to celiac disease, or DQ2-restricted viral epitopes, relevant to host defense. We used paired human APC, differing in DM expression (DMnull versus DMhigh) or differing by expression of wild-type DQ2, versus a DM-susceptible, DQ2 point mutant DQ2α+53G. The APC pairs were compared for their ability to stimulate human CD4+ T cell clones. Despite higher DQ2 levels, DMhigh APC attenuated T cell responses compared with DMnull APC after intracellular generation of four tested gliadin epitopes. DMhigh APC expressing the DQ2α+53G mutant further suppressed these gliadin-mediated responses. The gliadin epitopes were found to have moderate affinity for DQ2, and even lower affinity for the DQ2 mutant, consistent with DM suppression of their presentation. In contrast, DMhigh APC significantly promoted the presentation of DQ2-restricted epitopes derived intracellularly from inactivated HSV type 2, influenza hemagglutinin, and human papillomavirus E7 protein. When extracellular peptide epitopes were used as Ag, the DQ2 surface levels and peptide affinity were the major regulators of T cell responses. The differential effect of DM on stimulation of the two groups of T cell clones implies differences in DQ2 presentation pathways associated with nonpathogen- and pathogen-derived Ags in vivo.
Partial cystectomy in young male for a urachal tumor masquerading a bladder leiomyoma
Authors: Sodo Maurizio , Spirito Lorenzo , La Rocca Roberto , Bracale Umberto , Imbimbo Ciro
Published: March 2019

Leiomyoma of the bladder is a very rare disorder that accounts for 0.43% of all bladder neoplasms. Although the pathophysiology of the bladder leiomyoma is unknown, there are some theories on it. The patients can be asymptomatic; when present, clinical symptoms (lower urinary tract symptoms and\or hematuria), are associated with tumor size and location. For diagnosis, imaging plays an important role: ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the examinations most frequently performed. Treatment consists of surgical removal of the tumor, and the prognosis is excellent.
Clinical picture, diagnosis and treatment of rosacea, complicated by Demodex mites
Authors: Kubanov Alexey , Gallyamova Yuliya , Kravchenko Anzhela
Published: March 2019

The article analyzes the clinical picture and course of rosacea in patients with Demodex mites. It presents the advantages of using the method of confocal laser scanning microscopy over the method of light microscopy of facial skin scrapes. The aimes were to study the influence of Demodex mites on the clinical picture and course of rosacea; to compare laboratory and instrumental diagnostic methods for detecting Demodex mites; to evaluate the effectiveness of external therapy aimed at eliminating Demodex mites. 212 people were examined. The study included healthy patients, patients with a diagnosis of rosacea with the presence and absence of Demodex. The presence of Demodex mites was confirmed by two methods of study (light microscopy of skin scrapes and confocal laser scanning in vivo microscopy). Demodex mites promote the development of acute-inflammatory morphological elements, increase the duration of the condition (more than 5 years, P<0.01) and the probability of recurrence (from 1 to 3 relapses in 39.5% of patients, P<0.05), resulting in a decrease in the quality of life of patients (dermatology life quality index is 12.5±4.5, P<0.05). Antiparasitic drug ivermectin, in the form of an external form, at a concentration of 1% has a high therapeutic efficacy (in 93.3% of cases). Demodex folliculorum shows signs of parasitism, while Demodex folliculorum brevis is a saprophyte. The severity of the condition does not depend on the quantitative load of the mites in the scrape. As an antiparasitic drug, it is recommended to use 1% ivertmectin.
Awareness and appropriateness of the management of preclinical heart failure in outpatient clinics in Italy: Insights from the VASTISSIMO study - EValuation of the AppropriateneSs of The preclInical phase (Stage A and Stage B) of Heart FaIlure Management in Outpatient Clinics in Italy
Authors: Mureddu Gian Francesco , Nistri Stefano , Gori Anna Maria , Faggiano Pompilio , Fimiani Biagio , Maggi Antonio , Misuraca Gianfranco , Uguccioni Massimo , Tavazzi Luigi , Zito Giovanni Battista
Published: March 2019

A key factor in cardiovascular prevention is the detection and appropriate management of preclinical heart failure (HF), but information on the subject is scarce. We designed VASTISSIMO as a prospective, observational study to investigate Outpatient Clinic Cardiologists’ skills in detecting and managing preclinical HF in Italy. Quality scores were used to assess the appropriateness of clinical management according to guideline recommendations. The feasibility of making a diagnosis of preclinical HF in a cardiology outpatient clinical setting, cardiologists’ awareness of preclinical HF and consistency between physician’s perceived risk of HF and the patient’s classiﬁcation into the preclinical HF Stages A [(SAHF) or B (SBHF)] have been investigated. Consistency was defined acceptable if the concordance between perceived risk and actual risk was >70%. Out of 3322 patients included in the study data necessary for identifying SBHF were collected in 2106 (63.4%). Many SBHF patients had their risk underestimated: 16.2% of those with previous acute myocardial infarction (AMI), 23.1% with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) at ECG/echocardiography, 30% with systolic/diastolic dysfunction, and 14.3% with valve disease. Cardiologists’ awareness of preclinical HF in the outpatient setting should be improved. This is a critical area of cardiovascular prevention that requires attention to improve good clinical practice and adherence to guidelines.
Review of the association between periodontitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in smokers
Authors: Spiropoulou Agathi , Zareifopoulos Nicholas , Bellou Aggeliki , Spiropoulos Konstantinos , Tsalikis Lazaros
Published: March 2019

Both periodontitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are among the most common diseases associated with smoking. These conditions frequently present alongside comorbidities including diabetes, coronary heart disease, duodenal ulcer, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, osteoporosis and muscle atrophy. Chronic inflammation contributes to the pathology of both periodontitis and COPD, and in patients suffering from both conditions treatment of periodontitis may lead to relief from COPD symptoms as well. Smoking contributes to the underlying pathophysiology by causing local inflammation, increasing the production of proinflammatory cytokines and most importantly, by locally increasing the activity of proteolytic enzymes which degrade the extracellular matrix in both periodontal and lung interstitial tissue. The increase in protease activity and extracellular matrix degradation may explain why periodontitis and COPD comorbidity is so common, a finding which also indicates that therapeutic interventions targeting protease activity and the inflammatory response may be beneficial for both conditions.
Treatment and management of advanced heart failure in elderly
Authors: Tourkmani Nidal
Published: March 2019

Heart failure (HF) is a life-limiting condition, associated with high morbidity. End-stage, known as advanced heart failure (AHF), is more common among the elderly. HF patients’ disease trajectory is more variable and unpredictable than the trajectory for most oncologic illnesses. Despite a growing armamentarium of resources the management of AHF patients can be complex. Advances in medical therapy have dramatically improved the quality of life and survival of patients with end-stage HF. The majority of studies reveal lack of knowledge of HF among elderly patients. Mechanical circulatory support can provide bridge-to-transplantation therapy in eligible patients or destination therapy in those ineligible for heart transplantation like the majority of elderly patients with HF. The palliative care stage, considered as treatment basically aimed at controlling symptoms, may last a long time in some patients and should not simply be regarded as the final phase. Studies show that patients with AHF may have a poor understanding of their condition and its outcome and, therefore, guidelines recommend health care professionals to have an open communication with patients and their families about the AHF trajectory, including discussing their preferences for future care, acknowleding the risk of a sudden death, and the possibility of deactivation of devices (i.e. implantable defibrillators) in the end-of-life. This contribution is an attempt to have a brief overview of strategies for the management of HF terminal stage in elderly.
How to evaluate Quality of Life
Authors: Porcu Silvia , Mandas Antonella
Published: March 2019

In medical terminology, it has become more and more common the use of the expression “Quality of Life” (QoL) to define a series of aspects that go beyond the traditional, clinical and “objective” evaluation of the medical intervention. The attention to QoL comes from the need to find tools that are able to reveal important aspects of the life of the patient that cannot be measured by a laboratory exam and/or a radiological procedure. The QoL is measured through multidimensional questionnaires on, at the very least, the domains of physical, psychological and social health. The improvement of the health care standards and the technological progress in medical matters have brought about an increase in the average age of the population, and as a consequence, an increase of the chronic and degenerative disease, which can negatively influence the patient’s quality of life. Amongst these pathologies, heart failure (HF) has a high prevalence in patients who are at least 70 years old, and it’s the cause of frequent and repeated hospitalizations. The estimate of the QoL becomes then a very important piece of the puzzle to figure out, as important as the clinical parameters, to allow the patient to become an integral part of the physician’s decisions and to reach more quickly and with better results the therapeutic objectives.
ENGLISH ETYMOLOGIES FROM THE POPULAR REGISTER (III)
Authors: Sayers William
Published: March 2019

Difficulties in tracing the etymology of lexical isolates and loans from other languages are exemplified in the discussion of a gathering of English words previously without satisfactory explanations of origin.
Effect of cowpea (Vigna Unguiculata (L.) Walp) Stover dietary inclusion level on total tract apparent digestibility of nutrients in growing rabbits
Authors: Andrade Ederson Américo , Rodrigues Miguel António Machado , Ribeiro Luis , Mendes Clayton Quirino , Ferreira Luis Miguel Mendes , Pinheiro Victor
Published: March 2019

Although agro-industrial co-products have low economic value as foods for human consumption, they may have potential value as animal feedstuffs. This experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of cowpea stover inclusion in rabbits’ diet on growth performance and nutrient digestibility. A total of 180 animals were randomly assigned to 3 treatments (CS0, CS2 or CS4, with no inclusion, 20 or 40 g/kg of cowpea stover, respectively). Animal performance was evaluated between the 53rd and 67th d of age in 48 animals per treatment. The coefficients of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD) of organic matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fibre and gross energy were measured between 63 to 67 d of age in 12 animals per treatment. Results showed that, in general, CTTAD values were not affected by the inclusion of cowpea stover. Nevertheless, a trend towards a decrease in crude protein digestibility (P=0.0848) was observed when including cowpea stover. This had a negative influence on digestible protein (P=0.0240) and on the ratio between digestible protein and digestible energy (P=0.0231) for diet CS4. Rabbits showed normal figures for growth rate (on av. 46.8 g/d), feed intake (on av. 168.3 g/d) and feed conversion ratio (on av. 3.61). Future studies should assess the possibility of incorporating higher levels of cowpea stover while analysing the economic impact of this inclusion.
Blood and hair as non-invasive trace element biological indicators in growing rabbits
Authors: Papadomichelakis George , Pappas Athanasios C , Zoidis Evangelos , Danezis Georgios , Georgiou Konstantinos A , Fegeros Konstantinos
Published: March 2019

The suitability of blood and hair as non-invasive tools to monitor trace element contents was studied in 48 Hyla male growing rabbits. Three diets with increasing organic selenium (Se) addition (0.1, 0.5 and 2.5 mg/kg) were used to induce alterations in the concentrations of trace elements vs. an unsupplemented diet. In blood, a linear decrease in Co (P<0.001), Cu (P<0.001), Mn (P<0.05), Zn (P<0.05), Sb (P<0.001), As (P<0.001), Cr (P<0.001), Mo (P<0.001), Ni (P<0.001) and Cd (P<0.001) concentrations with increasing dietary Se was observed. In hair, a cubic effect of dietary Se on Co (P<0.01), Cu (P<0.05), Mn (P<0.001), Pb (P<0.05), Mo (P<0.05) and Cd (P<0.05) concentrations was found, while As, Cr and Ni concentrations decreased linearly (P<0.01, P<0.01 and P<0.001, respectively) with increasing dietary Se. Selenium was negatively correlated to Sb, As, Cr, Mo, Ni and Cd, (P<0.001) in blood, and to As (P<0.05), Cr, Ni (P<0.01) and Pb (P<0.05) in hair. The contents of Se, As, Cr and Ni in blood were highly correlated (P<0.001) to those in hair. Blood appeared to be more sensitive than hair in detecting small changes in the trace element profile in rabbits, as was indicated by the discriminant analysis. In conclusion, blood and hair can be suitable biological indicators of essential, toxic and potentially toxic trace element status in rabbits, particularly when used complementarily.
A razão governamental de Alberto Torres
Authors: Camargo Alexandre De Paiva Rio
Published: March 2019

O artigo investiga a obra de Alberto Torres sob o ponto de vista da introdução de uma razão go- vernamental no pensamento político brasileiro, pautada pela lógica da prevenção e da estruturação do campo de ações possíveis. Parte das reflexões de Michel Foucault sobre a governamentalidade para examinar a visão torreana de modernização e procura mostrar que a arquitetura do Estado desenhada em A organização nacional e O problema nacional brasileiro é inseparável das medi- das destinadas a produzir o “homem novo” como sujeito ético capaz de enfrentar os riscos da vida social, o que constitui um marco de ruptura na tradição do pensamento político e social. A razão governamental é analisada quanto aos seguintes aspectos: a influência da sociabilidade da escravidão na concepção de população, baseada na lógica afetiva e nas interações comunitárias; a reforma do regime jurídico e a formação de um regime de opinião, na direção de um governo das percepções; o lugar da política racial e do povoamento territorial na expansão da capacidade administrativa do Estado e na regulação da agência humana.
Satellite Inertia Parameters Estimation Based on Extended Kalman Filter
Authors: Bellar Abdellatif , Mohammed Mohammed Arezki Si
Published: March 2019

The moment of inertia parameters play a critical role in assuring the spacecraft mission throughout its lifetime. However, determination of the moment of inertia is a key challenge in operating satellites. During satellite mission, those parameters can change in orbit for many reasons such as sloshing, fuel consumption, etc. Therefore, the inertia matrix should be estimated in orbit to enhance the attitude estimation and control accuracy. This paper investigates the use of gyroscope to estimate the attitude rate and inertia matrix for low earth orbit satellite via extended Kalman filter. Simulation results show the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed algorithm in estimating these parameters without knowing the nominal inertia. The robustness of the proposed algorithm has been validated using the Monte-Carlo method. The obtained results demonstrate that the accuracy of the estimated inertia and angular velocity parameters is satisfactory for satellite with coarse accuracy mission requirements. The proposed method can be used for different types of satellites.
Effects of Bio-Inspired Surface Roughness on a Swept Back Tapered NACA 4412 Wing
Authors: Malik Khurshid , Aldheeb Mohammed , Asrar Waqar , Erwin Sulaeman
Published: March 2019

This paper presents the overall pros and cons of the effect of surface roughness elements over a NACA 4412 tapered, swept back half wing with a sweep angle of 30º and a dihedral angle of 5º. The tests were conducted at a Reynolds number of 4 × 105 in the IIUM Low Speed wind tunnel. Different roughness sizes and roughness locations were tested for a range of angle of attack. Lift, drag and pitching moment coefficients were measured for the smooth wing and with roughness elements. Surface roughness delays the stall angle and decreases the lift. The wing with the roughness elements located at 75% to 95% of mean chord from leading edge shows minimum drag and maximum lift compared to other locations. Significant increase in the pitching moment coefficient was found for flexible roughness elements. In case of rigid surface roughness, the effect on pitching moment is small.
Applying COCOMO II for a DO-178C Safety-Critical Software Effort Estimation
Authors: Santos Lucas Pereira dos , Ferreira Maurício
Published: March 2019

This paper provides a real example of applying COCOMO II as an estimation technique for the required software development effort in a safety-critical software application project following the DO-178C processes. The main goal and contribution of the case study is to support the research on software effort estimation and to provide software practitioners with useful data based on a real project. We applied the method as it is, by correlating the effort multiplier factors with the complexity and objectives introduced by the DO-178C level A application, resulting in an estimated effort. The rationales for each scale factor and effort multiplier selection were also described in detail. By comparing the estimated values with the actual required data, we found a magnitude of relative error (MRE) of 40% and provided alternatives for future work in order to increase the effort estimation accuracy in safety-critical software projects.
Iodine speciation and size distribution in ambient aerosols at a coastal new particle formation hotspot in China
Authors: Yu Huan , Ren Lili , Huang Xiangpeng , Xie Mingjie , He Jun , Xiao Hang
Published: March 2019

Abstract. Intense new particle formation (NPF) events were observed in the coastal atmosphere
during algae growth and farming season at Xiangshan gulf of the east China coast. High
nucleation-mode iodine concentrations measured by ultra-performance liquid chromatography
coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q-TOF-MS) confirmed that
the NPF events were induced by iodine species. Our study provides important information
on iodine speciation, size distributions, and its role in NPF in the context of heavy air
pollution in China's coastal areas. For the first time, we identified 5 inorganic iodine
species, 45 organic iodine compounds (35 molecular formulas), and a group of
iodide–organic adducts in aerosols. The concentrations and size distributions of iodine
species down to 10 nm were measured during the iodine-induced NPF, continental NPF, and
non-NPF days at the coastal site and compared to those at an inland site. The iodine in
the above four aerosol sample types were characterized by iodate, aromatic iodine
compounds, iodoacetic acid or iodopropenoic acid, and iodide–organic adducts,
respectively. Iodide and organic iodine compounds were found in the nucleation-mode
particles; however, it is still not clear whether they contributed to nucleation or just
new particle growth. Wild algae, as well as farmed algae, could be an important NPF
source in China's coastal areas.
Evaluation of Anthropogenic Emissions and Ozone Pollution in the North China Plain: Insights from the Air Chemistry Research in Asia (ARIAs) Campaign
Authors: He Hao , Ren Xinrong , Benish Sarah E. , Li Zhanqing , Wang Fei , Wang Yuying , Canty Timothy P. , Dong Xiaobo , Lv Feng , Hu Yongtao , Zhu Tong , Dickerson Russell R.
Published: March 2019

Abstract. To study the air pollution in the North China Plain (NCP), the Air Chemistry Research in Asia (ARIAs) campaign conducted airborne measurements of air pollutants including O3, CO, NO and NO2 in spring 2016. High concentrations of pollutants, > 100 ppbv of O3, > 500 ppbv of CO, and > 10 ppbv of NO2, were observed throughout the boundary layer during the campaign. CMAQ simulations with the 2010 EDGAR emissions can capture the basic spatial and temporal variations of ozone and its major precursors such as CO, NOx and VOCs, but significantly underestimate their concentrations. Observed emission enhancements of CO and NOx with respect to CO2 suggest the existence of combustion with high emissions such as biomass burning in the NCP. The comparison with emission factors from the 2010 EDGAR emission inventory indicates that the contribution of combustion with high emissions has been overestimated. Differences between CMAQ simulations with 2010 emissions and satellite observations in 2016 can reflect the change in anthropogenic emissions. NOx emissions decreased in megacities such as Beijing and Shanghai confirming the effectiveness of recent control measures in China, while in other cities and rural areas NOx emissions slightly increased, e.g., CMAQ predicts only ~ 80 % of NOx observed in the aircraft campaign area. CMAQ also underestimates HCHO (a proxy of VOCs, by ~ 20 %) and CO (by ~ 60 %) over the NCP, suggesting adjustments of the 2010 EDGAR emissions are needed to improve the model performance. HCHO/NO2 column ratios derived from OMI measurements and CMAQ simulations show that VOC-sensitive chemistry dominates the ozone photochemical production in eastern China, suggesting the importance of tightening regulations on VOCs emissions. We adjusted EDGAR emissions based on satellite observations, conducted sensitivity experiments of CMAQ, and achieved better model performance in simulating ozone, but underestimation still exists. Because of the VOC-sensitive environment in ozone chemistry over the NCP, future study and regulations should focus on VOCs emissions with the continuous controls on NOx emissions in China.
Controls on the water vapor isotopic composition near the surface of
tropical oceans and role of boundary layer mixing processes
Authors: Risi Camille , Galewsky Joseph , Reverdin Gilles , Brient Florent
Published: March 2019

Abstract. Understanding what controls the water vapor isotopic composition of the sub-cloud layer (SCL) over tropical oceans (δD0) is a first step towards understanding the water vapor isotopic composition everywhere in the troposphere. We propose an analytical model to predict δD0 as a function of sea surface conditions, humidity and temperature profiles, and the altitude from which the free tropospheric air originates (zorig). To do so, we extend previous studies by (1) prescribing the shape of δD0 vertical profiles, and (2) linking δD0 to zorig. The model relies on the hypotheses that δD0 profiles are steeper than mixing lines and no clouds are precipitating. We show that δD0 does not depend on the intensity of entrainment, dampening hope that δD0 measurements could help constrain this long-searched quantity. Based on an isotope-enabled general circulation model simulation, we show that δD0 variations are mainly controlled by mid-tropospheric depletion and rain evaporation in ascending regions, and by sea surface temperature and zorig in subsiding regions. When the air mixing into the SCL is lower in altitude, it is moister, and thus it depletes more efficiently the SCL. In turn, could δD0 measurements help estimate zorig and thus discriminate between different mixing processes? Estimates that are accurate enough to be useful would be difficult to achieve in practice, requiring measuring daily δD profiles, and measuring δD0 with an accuracy of 0.1 ‰ and 0.4 ‰ in trade-wind cumulus and strato-cumulus clouds respectively.
Cloud products from the Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera (EPIC): algorithms and initial evaluation
Authors: Yang Yuekui , Meyer Kerry , Wind Galina , Zhou Yaping , Marshak Alexander , Platnick Steven , Min Qilong , Davis Anthony B. , Joiner Joanna , Vasilkov Alexander , Duda David , Su Wenying
Published: March 2019

Abstract. This paper presents the physical basis of the Earth Polychromatic Imaging
Camera (EPIC) cloud product algorithms and an initial evaluation of their
performance. Since June 2015, EPIC has been providing observations of the
sunlit side of the Earth with its 10 spectral channels ranging from the UV to
the near-infrared. A suite of algorithms has been developed to generate the
standard EPIC Level 2 cloud products that include cloud mask, cloud effective
pressure/height, and cloud optical thickness. The EPIC cloud mask adopts the
threshold method and utilizes multichannel observations and ratios as tests.
Cloud effective pressure/height is derived with observations from the
O2 A-band (780 and 764 nm) and B-band (680 and 688 nm) pairs. The
EPIC cloud optical thickness retrieval adopts a single-channel approach in
which the 780 and 680 nm channels are used for retrievals over ocean and
over land, respectively. Comparison with co-located cloud retrievals from
geosynchronous earth orbit (GEO) and low earth orbit (LEO) satellites shows
that the EPIC cloud product algorithms are performing well and are consistent
with theoretical expectations. These products are publicly available at the
Atmospheric Science Data Center at the NASA Langley Research Center for
climate studies and for generating other geophysical products that require
cloud properties as input.