bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discrete Transform Based Image Fusion
Authors: Kumar Umesh , Gopaliya Neha , Sharma Uma , Gupta Sandeep
Published: July 2017

With the advancement of image processing, the distinct area of image fusion has been explored. The word fusion represents a way of obtaining data acquired in several domains. A technique of merging useful data from input images is defined as image fusion. It improves features and performance. Fused image includes all the important features of input images without introducing any artifacts. This paper depicts the basic of image fusion and fusion techniques. Paper mainly focuses on frequency domain techniques. Image fusion widely used in surveillance, medical diagnosis, biometric, enhanced vision system and remote sensing.
Nanotechnology and Microelectronics
Authors: Ekekwe Ndubuisi
Published: July 2017

For many centuries, the gross world product was flat. But as technology penetrated many economies, over time, the world economy has expanded. Technology will continue to shape the future of commerce, industry and culture with likes of nanotechnology and microelectronics directly or indirectly playing major roles in redesigning the global economic structures. These technologies will drive other industries and will be central to a new international economy where technology capability will determine national competitiveness. Technology-intensive firms will emerge and new innovations will evolve a new dawn in wealth creation. Nations that create or adopt and then diffuse these technologies will profit. Those that fail to use technology as a means to compete internationally will find it difficult to progress economically. This article provides insights on global technology diffusion, the drivers and impacts with specific focus on nanotechnology and microelectronics. It also discusses the science of these technologies along with the trends, realities and possibilities, and the barriers which must be overcome for higher global penetration rates.
Algorithmic Models of Biochemical Dynamics
Authors: Manca Vincenzo
Published: July 2017

The paper presents the main ideas about MP grammars, a discrete formalism for describing and deducing dynamical systems, that combines ideas from formal language theory (P systems), recurrent equations, linear algebra and statistical regression. In this framework, some synthetic oscillators are presented which illustrate, in a simple manner, the expressive power of MP grammars in the analysis of interesting phenomena that are crucial in biochemical and biological contexts.
Emerging Exposure Risks and Ethics of the Nanotechnology Workplace
Authors: Udoka Silvanus J. , Archibong Chi Anyansi
Published: July 2017

As the applications of nanotechnology continue to span various industries, the number of workers who may be in regular contact with nanomaterials correspondingly expand. The excitement associated with the promise of opportunities to create revolutionary advances in product development using nanotechnology must be moderated with the fact that there is a paucity of empirical data about the potential health effects of exposure to nanoparticles. This lack of exposure data hinders the development of nanotechnology health and safety guidelines (Murashov, 2009). Nanotechnology is science at the size of individual atoms and molecules. At that size scale, materials have different chemical and physical properties than those of the same materials in bulk. With the current state of knowledge in this field, there are unanswered questions about the impacts of nanomaterials and nanoproducts on human health and the environment. This paper reviews the state-of the-science, exposure assessment and mitigation, and potential macro ethical issues that must be considered to mitigate risk implications this emerging technology, nanotechnology.
Trends in Nanotechnology Knowledge Creation and Dissemination
Authors: Islam Nazrul
Published: July 2017

This article explores trends in nanotechnology knowledge creation across scientific disciplines and technology domains, and helps to understand the dissemination of nanotechnology knowledge. In relation to intense global competition in nanotechnology, this study exhibits a forward-looking approach in characterizing nanotechnology research and development trajectories. This research adopts hybrid research methodology, including both quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings imply that nanotechnology knowledge creation and dissemination trends have appeared to bridge divergent disciplines, emphasizing the importance of collaborative research networks among scientists to co-create, share and disseminate nano-knowledge across groups, institutions and borders.
Effectivity of intravescical thermo-chemotherapy prophylaxis for patients with high recurrence and progression risk for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Gözen Ali Serdar , Umari Paolo , Scheitlin Walter , Su Fuat Ernis , Akin Yigit , Rassweiler Jens
Published: July 2017

Background&Aim: High grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is common in urological practice. Most of these cancers are or become refractory to intravesical immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Here we evaluated the efficacy of combined local bladder hyperthermia and intravesical mitomycin-C (MMC) instillation in patients with high-risk recurrent NMIBC. Materials and methods: Between February 2014 and December 2015, 18 patients with high risk NMIBC were enrolled. Patients were treated in an outpatient basis with 6 weekly induction sessions followed by monthly maintenance sessions with intravesical MMC in local hyperthermia with bladder wall thermo-chemotherapy (BWT) system (PelvixTT system, Elmedical Ltd., Hod Hasharon, Israel). The follow-up regimen included cystoscopy after the induction cycle and thereafter with regular intervals. Time to disease recurrence was defined as time from the first intravesical treatment to endoscopic or histological documentation of a new bladder tumour. Adverse events were recorded according to CTC 4.0 (Common Toxicity Criteria) score system. Results: Mean age was 72 (32-87) years. 10 patients had multifocal disease, 9 had CIS, 6 had recurrent disease and 2 had highly recurrent disease (> 3 recurrences in a 24 months period). 6 patients underwent previous intravesical chemotherapy with MMC. The average number of maintenance sessions per patient was 7.6. After a mean follow-up of 433 days, 15 patients (83.3%) were recurrence-free. 3 patients had tumour recurrence after a mean period of 248 days without progression. Side effects were limited to grade 1 in 2 patients and grade 2 in 1 patient. Conclusions: BWT seems to be feasible and safe in high grade NMIBC. More studies are needed to identify the subgroup of patients who may benefit more from this treatment.
Psychologic and sexual dysfunction in primary and secondary infertile male patients
Authors: Sahin Aytac , Urkmez Ahmet , Verit Ayhan , Yuksel Ozgur Haki , Verit Fatma Ferda
Published: July 2017

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare depression and sexual dysfunctions observed in primary and secondary infertile patients. Material and method: The study was performed in 39 primary and 31 secondary infertile male patients. Male sexual health was evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score and depression with Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Results: Mean age of the participants and their partners were 31.54 ± 5.37 (range, 24-48 yrs), and 28.16 ± 5.58 (range, 20- 46 yrs) years, respectively. Mean duration of their marriage ranged between 1 and 17 years (mean, 5.06 ± 4.15 yrs). A statistically significant intergroup difference was detected between groups as for BDI scores (p = 0.015; p < 0. 05). BDI scores of the primary group were significantly lower than those of the secondary group. A statistically and extremely significant difference was detected between IIEF scores of the groups (p = 0.006; p < 0.01). IIEF scores of the primary infertile group were higher than those of the secondary group. Conclusion: Our study, frequency of the depression and erectile dysfunction seen in the patients with secondary infertility was seen significantly higher than the patients with primary infertility.
Influence of HIV virus in the hospital stay and the occurrence of postoperative complications classified according to the Clavien-Dindo classification and in comparison with the Charlson Comorbidity Index in patients subjected to urologic and general surgery operations. Our preliminary results
Authors: Dimitroulis Dimitrios , Karaolanis Georgios , Katafigiotis Ioannis , Anastasiou Ioannis , Palla Viktoria-Varvara , Kontos Athanasios , Duvdevani Mordechai , Kontzoglou Konstantinos
Published: July 2017

Objectives: From the first time that human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was discovered, till today both the quality of life and survival expectancy of HIV-infected patients have markedly improved. As the life expectancy of these patients increases due to the use of highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) also increases the number of HIV-positive patient to be subjected to an operation. Different studies have examined the occurrence of complications in this particular group of patients and their possible susceptibility to infections or other complications that could lead to increased hospital stay, morbidity and mortality with controversial results. Material and methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of 25 HIV-patients that were subjected to general surgery and urologic operations and we also examined in comparison with the Charlson score and their comorbidities the occurrence of complications and subsequently the possibility of an increase hospital stay due to their HIV infection. Alongside we classified their complications according to the Clavien-Dindo and compared these complications in relation to their Charlson score and CD4 count. Results: 10/25 (40%) of the population had prolonged hospital stay and from this population 6 (6/25) (24%) patients had less than 200 CD4 constituting the AIDS subpopulation. The decline of the CD4 count showed a tendency for the occurrence of a complication and comorbidities to HIV-positive patients seem to affect more the AIDS subpopulation. Conclusions: Although this is a small retrospective study, we tried to classify our complications according to the Clavien- Dindo classification and combine the classification to the age adjusted Charlson score index of comorbidities.
Correlation between lower urinary tract symptoms and objective measures of uroflowmetry
Authors: Türk Hakan , Ün Sıtkı
Published: July 2017

Indroduction: Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is the most commonly diagnosed benign adenoma which causes serious clinical symptoms by bladder outlet obstruction. BPH patients suffer from negative changes in their quality of life and restriction of their daily activities due to the disease symptoms. Our main objective in this study is to evaluate the relationship between BPH and LUTS as described by International Prostate Symptoms Score and objective non-invasive parameters related to BPH. Materials and methods: 238 Patients over 40 years with clinical BPH, LUTS and/or prostate volumes greater than 25 ml who presented to urology department were included in the study. All patients included in the study were subjected to a standardized diagnostic panel which included patient history, physical examination, biochemistry panels and urinalysis. Results: Results showed an increase in symptom scores with age. As symptom scores go from mild to severe; Qmax values showed a decrease meanwhile prostate volume, PSA and postvoid residue increased. Again, in terms of erectile dysfunction, erectile dysfunction complaints increased with increased IIEF symptom scores. When all these results were evaluated, a positive correlation was seen between uroflowmetry parameters with patient symptoms, PSA and IIEF scores. Conclusion: From our study results, we can conclude that uroflowmetry is a very useful tool in monitoring lower urinary system complaints.
A rare case of male pelvic squamous cell carcinoma of unknown primary origin presenting as perineal abscess and urethral stenosis
Authors: Creta Massimiliano , Mirone Vincenzo , Di Meo Sergio , Buonopane Roberto , Longo Nicola , Fusco Ferdinando , Forte Nicola Rosario , Imperatore Vittorio
Published: July 2017

Carcinomas of unknown primary origin (CUP) represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Squamous cell CUP located in the male pelvis are very rare. We describe a case of a locally advanced squamous cell CUP occurring in the male pelvis presenting as perineal abscess and urethral stenosis and diagnosed by means of transperineal needle biopsy.
Vaginal metastasis of bladder urothelial carcinoma: Description of a case and revision of literature
Authors: Di Franco Carmelo A. , Porru Daniele , Giliberto Giovanni , Viglio Alessandra , Rovereto Bruno
Published: July 2017

Vaginal metastases from urothelial cancer are a rare entity and in literature, few cases are described. We report a case of a 68 year-old woman with history of bladder urothelial carcinoma underwent to radical cystectomy who came in our department after 5 months for pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding. Objective examination revealed an ulcerative, solid vaginal lesion in the upper vaginal wall. We performed a vaginal biopsy that showed urothelial carcinoma compatible with the primitive bladder cancer. The patient underwent to surgery and was sent to oncological evaluation.
Cryotherapy for low risk prostate cancer, oncological and functional medium term outcomes: A three center prospective study
Authors: Lucan Valerian Ciprian , Lugnani Franco , Butticè Salvatore , Sener Emre , Netsch Christopher , Talso Michele , Cantiello Francesco , Pappalardo Rosa , Magno Carlo
Published: July 2017

Objectives: Analyze the oncologic and functional outcomes in patients affected by low risk prostate cancer underwent prostate cryotherapy. Materiasl and methods: It’s a prospective tricentric study of 434 patients treated with prostate cryoablation for low risk prostate cancer. By low risk we refer to the D'Amico’s risk classification. Two cycles of freezing/thawing are run for each patient following the technique described by Onik. Results: For the 434 patients, the median age was 66 years with a standard deviation of ± 6.68, the average PSA was 6.17 ng/d/L, the median 5.55 with a standard deviation of ± 2.13, the mean prostate volume was 35.59 cc, the median 34.00 cc, with a standard deviation of ± 7.89. Biochemical failure occurred in 67 patients (15.4%). Pre-operative erectile function in men was distributed as follows: severe in 95 patients (19.2%), moderate in 95 (19.2%), medium-moderate in 180 (36.4%), mild in 92 (18.6%), with no dysfunction in 32 (6.5%) patients. Post-operative erectile function, measured 1 month after cryotherapy, was distributed as follows: severe in 321 (65%) patients, moderate in 69 (14%), medium-moderate in 79 (16%), mild in 23 (4.7%), and no dysfunction in only 2 patients (0.4%). Post-operative erectile function after 3 months was distributed as follows: severe in 233 (47.2%) patients, moderate in 66 (13.4%), medium-moderate in 122 (24.7%), mild in 65 (13.2%), and no dysfunction in 8 patients (1.6%). Urinary incontinence was present in 21 patients (4.8%) after 3 months while it dropped to 13 patients (2.9%) after 6 months. Conclusions: Cryotherapy in the treatment of prostate cancer remains a viable alternative. The availability of new cryoprobes and the use of new diagnostic means such as fusion magnetic resonance will make this more precise and more effective method.
Fibroblast activating protein-α expression in squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus in primary and irradiated tumors: the use of archival FFPE material for molecular techniques
Authors: Tabola Renata , Zaremba-Czogalla Magdalena , Baczynska Dagmara , Cirocchi Roberto , Stach Kamila , Grabowski Krzysztof , Augoff Katarzyna
Published: July 2017

There are numerous reports suggesting that fibroblast activating protein-α (FAP-α) plays an important role in invasion of various tumor types. We studied the expression pattern of FAP-α in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients who had not been treated primarily and those who had received neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy. Our goal was to establish whether readily available tissue specimens fixed in formalin and stored in paraffin blocks for years might still be a source of FAP-α RNA for PCR analysis. The study included 20 patients divided into two groups, 10 patients in each group. We evaluated the expression of FAP-α by PCR techniques in fresh frozen and in paraffin-embedded tissues, and compared it to the expression in non-cancer tissues. To detect the protein expression level of FAP-α in paraffin-embedded tissues we used chromogenic immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. Data were analyzed by t-test or the nonparametric Wilcoxon matched pair test using Statistica 12.5 software. We observed an increased level of the FAP-alpha gene and protein expression in cancer tissues when compared with their corresponding normal tissues. However, statistically significant differences were found only in the group of patients untreated before surgery. RNA extracted from paraffin-embedded tissue sections had very low quality, especially in the context of degradation. FAP-α remains a highly altered participant of a complex microenvironment in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and its role in cell signaling requires further study. In this paper, we conclude that the use of a regular RT-PCR method for diagnostic purposes, which we have presented in an earlier paper, can be as good as qRT-PCR. Also, immunohistochemistry proved to be very useful and the only reliable method that can be used on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues stored long term.
Oxygen tension-independent protection against hypoxic cell killing in rat liver by low sodium
Authors: Ferrigno Andrea , Di Pasqua Laura G. , Berardo Clarissa , Siciliano Veronica , Richelmi Plinio , Vairetti Mariapia
Published: July 2017

The role of Na+ in hypoxic injury was evaluated by a time-course analysis of damage in isolated livers perfused with N2-saturated buffer containing standard (143 mM) or low (25 mM) Na+ levels. Trypan blue uptake was used to detect non-viable cells. Under hypoxia with standard-Na+, trypan blue uptake began at the border between pericentral areas and periportal regions and increased in the latter zone; using a low-Na+ buffer, no trypan blue zonation occurred but a homogenous distribution of dye was found associated with sinusoidal endothelial cell (SEC) staining. A decrease in hyaluronic acid (HA) uptake, index of SEC damage, was observed using a low-Na+ buffer. A time dependent injury was confirmed by an increase in LDH and TBARS levels with standard-Na+ buffer. Using low-Na+ buffer, SEC susceptibility appears elevated under hypoxia and hepatocytes was protected, in an oxygen independent manner.
Low-load high-velocity resistance exercises improve strength and functional capacity in diabetic patients
Authors: Celes Rodrigo , Bottaro Martim , Cadore Eduardo , Dullius Jane , Schwartz Fabiano , Luzine Filipe
Published: July 2017

This study investigated the effects of low-load high-velocity resistance exercises on neuromuscular and functional outcomes in patients with Type 2 diabetes (T2D) during the early-phase of resistance training. Thirty participants with T2D performed 18 training sessions (6 weeks – 3x week) in one of two groups: low-load high-velocity exercises (LLHV, n=15, 62.1±10.5 years) or recreational activities (RA, n=15 56.7 ± 19.4 years). LLHV performed resistance exercises with 3x 8reps as fast as possible with 50-60% 1RM. RA performed light activities. Strength, power, and functional tests were assessed. There was significant increasing in the knee extension peak-torque at 60º/s (7.6%) and 180º/s (12.2%), rate of force development in the LLHV group (P<0.05), whereas there were no changes in the RA group. Significant increases in functional test were observed in the LLHV group (P<0.01) with no changes in the RA group. In conclusion, the LLHV induced marked improvements in neuromuscular parameters, as well as in the functional capacity of participants with T2D.
Strength training with repetitions to failure does not provide additional strength and muscle hypertrophy gains in young women
Authors: Martorelli Saulo , Cadore Eduardo Lusa , Izquierdo Mikel , Celes Rodrigo , Martorelli André , Cleto Vitor Alonso , Alvarenga José Gustavo , Bottaro Martim
Published: July 2017

This study investigated the effects of a 10-week resistance training to failure on neuromuscular adaptations in young women. Eighty-nine active young women were randomly assigned to one of three groups: 1) repetitions to failure (RF; three sets of repetitions to failure); 2) repetitions not to failure with equalized volume (RNFV; four sets of 7 repetitions); and 3) repetitions not to failure (RNF; three sets of 7 repetitions). All groups performed the elbow flexor exercise (bilateral biceps curl) and trained 2 days per week using 70% of 1RM. There were significant increases (p<0.05) in muscle strength after 5 (15.9% for RF, 18.4% for RNF, and 19.9% for RNFV) and 10 (28.3% for RF, 26.8% for RNF, and 28.3% for RNFV) weeks of training, with no significant differences between groups. Additionally, muscular endurance increased after 5 and 10 weeks, with no differences between groups. However, peak torque (PT) increased significantly at 180°.s-1 in the RNFV (13.7%) and RNF (4.1%) groups (p<0.05), whereas no changes were observed in the RF group (-0.5%). Muscle thickness increased significantly (p<0.05) in the RF and RNFV groups after 5 (RF: 8.4% and RNFV: 2.3%) and 10 weeks of training (RF: 17.5%, and RNFV: 8.5%), whereas no significant changes were observed in the RNF group (3.9 and 2.1% after 5 and 10 weeks, respectively). These data suggest that short-term training of repetitions to failure do not yield additional overall neuromuscular improvements in young women.
Measuring system and method of determining the Adaptive Force
Authors: Schaefer Laura , Hoff Marko , Bittmann Frank
Published: July 2017

The term Adaptive Force (AF) describes the capability of adaptation of the nerve-muscle-system to externally applied forces during isometric and eccentric muscle action. This ability plays an important role in real life motions as well as in sports. The focus of this paper is on the specific measurement method of this neuromuscular action, which can be seen as innovative. A measuring system based on the use of compressed air was constructed and evaluated for this neuromuscular function. It depends on the physical conditions of the subject, at which force level it deviates from the quasi isometric position and merges into eccentric muscle action. The device enables – in contrast to the isokinetic systems – a measure of strength without forced motion. Evaluation of the scientific quality criteria of the devices was done by measurements regarding the intra- and interrater-, the test-retest-reliability and fatiguing measurements. Comparisons of the pneumatic device with a dynamometer were also done. Looking at the mechanical evaluation, the results show a high level of consistency (r²=0.94 to 0.96). The parallel test reliability delivers a very high and significant correlation (ρ=0.976; p=0.000). Including the biological system, the concordance of three different raters is very high (p=0.001, Cronbachs alpha α=0.987). The test retest with 4 subjects over five weeks speaks for the reliability of the device in showing no statistically significant differences. These evaluations indicate that the scientific evaluation criteria are fulfilled. The specific feature of this system is that an isometric position can be maintained while the externally impacting force rises. Moreover, the device can capture concentric, static and eccentric strength values. Fields of application are performance diagnostics in sports and medicine.
Neuromuscular taping application in counter movement jump: biomechanical insight in a group of healthy basketball players
Authors: Marcolin Giuseppe , Buriani Alessandro , Giacomelli Andrea , Blow David , Grigoletto Davide , Gesi Marco
Published: July 2017

Kinesiologic elastic tape is widely used for both clinical and sport applications although its efficacy in enhancing agonistic performance is still controversial. Aim of the study was to verify in a group of healthy basketball players whether a neuromuscular taping application (NMT) on ankle and knee joints could affect the kinematic and the kinetic parameters of the jump, either by enhancing or inhibiting the functional performance. Fourteen healthy male basketball players without any ongoing pathologies at upper limbs, lower limbs and trunk volunteered in the study. They randomly performed 2 sets of 5 counter movement jumps (CMJ) with and without application of Kinesiologic tape. The best 3 jumps of each set were considered for the analysis. The Kinematics parameters analyzed were: knees maximal flexion and ankles maximal dorsiflexion during the push off phase, jump height and take off velocity. Vertical ground reaction force and maximal power expressed in the push off phase of the jump were also investigated. The NMT application in both knees and ankles showed no statistically significant differences in the kinematic and kinetic parameters and did not interfere with the CMJ performance. Bilateral NMT application in the group of healthy male basketball players did not change kinematics and kinetics jump parameters, thus suggesting that its routine use should have no negative effect on functional performance. Similarly, the combined application of the tape on both knees and ankles did not affect in either way jump performance.
Morphological peculiarities of neuromuscular junctions among different fiber types: Effect of exercise
Authors: Seene Teet , Umnova Maria , Kaasik Priit
Published: July 2017

The aim of our research was to examine whether there are differences in the morphology of neuromuscular junctions of different types of muscle fibers in rodents, and after their adaptation to six weeks endurance exercise training. After 5-day acclimation, Wistar rats were subjected to run with the speed 35 m/min during 6 week, 5 days per week and the training volume reached 60 min per day. Muscle samples for ultrastructural studies were fixed, dehydrated and embedded in Epon-812. Ultra-thin sections were cut from longitudinally and transversely oriented blocs, using 4 blocks from each animal. The area of axon terminals on fast- twitch fibers is 1.5 time large (p<0.001) and the perimeter of terminals is 1.7 time large in comparison with slow- twitch oxidative fibers (p<0.001) in control group. There are correlation between cross-sectional area of different muscle fibers and length of axon terminals (r=0.72), between cross-sectional area and with of axon terminal (r=-0.62), and between turnover rate of contractile proteins and length of axon terminal (r=0.75). Fast remodeling of synapse on oxidative and oxidative-glycolytic muscle fibers during endurance training seems to guarantees the intensive renewal of the structures of muscle fibers with higher oxidative capacity.
Detection of sulfites in fresh meat preparation commercialised at retail in Lazio Region
Authors: Carrabs Giuseppe , Smaldone Giorgio , Carosielli Leonardo , Girasole Mariagrazia , Iammarino Marco , Chiaravalle Eugenio
Published: July 2017

In Europe sulfur dioxide (SO2) and sulfites in foods and beverages at concentrations of more than 10 mg kg–1 or 10 mg L–1 expressed as SO2 equivalents are subject to mandatory labelling. In fresh meats the addition of sulfites is not admitted because of their unlawful use to give the product a more attractive appearance. Aim of the study was to detect sulfites in meat product sampled in 19 commercial shops of Lazio Region. In n=12 samples, sulfites were present at different concentrations and no indication for them was reported on the label. Sulfites concentrations ranged from 13.3 to 1278.9 mg kg–1. The results of the present investigation underline the need for better controls by operators, not only under the food information but also in the consumers’ health perspective.
Correction: Occurrence of harmful algal species and shellfish toxicity in Sardinia (Italy)
Authors: Bazzoni Anna Maria , Mudadu Alessandro Graziano , Lorenzoni Giuseppa , Arras Igor , Lugliè Antonella , Vivaldi Barbara , Ciccotelli Valentina , Sanna Giovanna , Tedde Giuseppe , Ledda Salvatore , Alesso Enrico , Marongiu Edoardo , Virgilio Sebastiano
Published: July 2017

Not available.
HIV testing and risk perceptions: a qualitative analysis of secondary school students in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Aluzimbi George , Lubwama George , Muyonga Michael , Hladik Wolfgang
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this paper is to explore the perceptions of self-reported HIV testing and risk behavior among sexually active adolescents and youth in secondary schools in Kampala Uganda. This was a cross-sectional survey conducted between June and October 2010 among secondary school students in Kampala, Uganda. Forty eight (48) students across the 54 schools were purposively selected for the qualitative sub-study based on their responses to particular questions. We thematically analyzed 28 interviews for our qualitative study using Nvivo software. Drug and alcohol use coupled with peers pressure impaired students’ perceptions towards HIV risk and therefore increased their susceptibility to HIV risk behaviors. Of the 28 scripts analyzed, 82% (23/28) had ever had sexual partners, 79% (22/28) were currently sexually active, and 57% (16/28) had ever been tested for HIV. In conclusion, most adolescents interviewed did not perceive HIV testing to be important to HIV prevention and reported low perception of susceptibility to HIV infection. Development of an adolescent HIV prevention model is important in improving uptake of HIV services.
Somatoform dissociation, fatigue severity and pain behavior compared in patients with migraine headache and in healthy individuals
Authors: Fattahzadeh-Ardalani Ghasem , Aghazadeh Vida , Atalu Abolfazl , Abbasi Vahid
Published: July 2017

The prevalence of migraine in the world is about 15 and 7% among women and men, respectively. The purpose of this study was comparison of somatoform dissociation, fatigue severity and pain behavior in patients with migraine headache and its relationship with coping strategies. This descriptive analytical study has been done on 120 patients with migraine headache and 120 healthy subjects were selected randomly. Data collected by somatoform dissociation questionnaire (SDQ-20), fatigue severity scale, pain behavior scale and coping strategies scale. For data analysis we used SPSS.19. The means of the somatoform dissociation, pain behavior scale, help searching subscale and pain compliant in migraine and healthy subjects were statistically significant. There was not significant difference in avoidance subscales between the two groups. Comparison of fatigue severity in patients with migraine and control group was meaningful. There was significant positive correlation between all four scales and coping strategies. It seems that these symptoms can play an important role in this disease; thus, their careful evaluation in the treatment of migraine headache is essential.
Are cerebrospinal fluid protein levels and plasma neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio associated with prognosis of Guillain Barré syndrome?
Authors: Sahin Sevki , Cinar Nilgun , Karsidag Sibel
Published: July 2017

Guillain Barré syndrome (GBS) is a post-infectious acute autoimmune polyradiculopathy. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total protein level and plasma neutrophil/ lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are related with autoimmune response. We aimed to reach a prognostic indicator for GBS by using electrophysiological findings, protein level of CSF, and plasma NLR based on Medical Research Council (MRC) sum score data. Cases who met diagnostic criteria of GBS and followed at least six months were enrolled in the study. Nerve conduction study (NCS) and lumbar puncture were performed one week after symptom onset. Routine CSF findings and complete blood count were recorded. Plasma NLR was calculated as the ratio of neutrophil cell count to lymphocyte cell count. All patients received intravenous immunoglobulin. MRC sum scores were calculated on administration time (1st) and six months later (2nd) for evaluation of recovery. Mean values of baseline CSF protein level, NCS parameters and NLR were compared with mean scores of MRC1st and MRC2nd. Increased CSF protein levels showed negative correlation with MRC2nd scores but no correlation with NCS. Increased NLR levels were positively correlated with age, MRC2nd scores and NCS. Facial diplegia was observed in 42% of patients. A positive correlation was found between high level of NLR and MRC1st, and there was no relationship with MRC2nd. Regression analyses showed that only CSF protein level was an independent factor on both MRC1st and MRC2nd. A positive association was found between baseline data included young age high plasma NLR, low level of CSF protein and good prognosis in our study. Also a positive correlation was found between high level of NLR and baseline disability in GBS cases with facial diplegia. Calculation of NLR is an easy and inexpensive method. On the other hand it may be influenced by age and immunotherapy. Our results showed that CSF protein level is still a liable parameter for prognosis. NLR could be a candidate prognostic marker of GBS cases. Further investigations including more cases are needed.
Book Review: Philosophic Sagacity and Intercultural Philosophy: Beyond Henry Odera Oruka
Authors: Agada Ada
Published: July 2017

Book Title: Philosophic Sagacity and Intercultural Philosophy: Beyond Henry Odera OrukaBook Author: Pius Maija MosimaAfrican Studies Centre, Leiden, Netherlands (2016). pp. 187. ISBN: 978-90-5448-152-2.
Abiola Irele: a tribute to the master
Authors: Ofeimun Odia
Published: July 2017

No Abstract
Temporal and comparative analysis between abdomen dissection methods for aorto-caval exposure
Authors: Sato A. , Batigália F.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: The systemic exposure of the Human Body or dissection is considered of utmost importance by the study of abdominal vasculature, due to its applicability in Clinical Medicine, Surgery, Radiology and Pathology. The specialized literature does not mention comparative studies of time spent for execution of different dissection methods in order to prioritize the quickest method, and thereby, optimize academic or professional training in Anatomy or Emergency Surgery. The present research aimed at comparing the time required to perform dissection methods that prioritize the exposure of large abdominal vessels. Materials and Methods: Embalmed bodies of six adults were considered for execution (by the same professional) of Cattell-Braasch and Mattox maneuvers by manual blunt dissection or surgical instruments. Discussion: We evaluated the time spent for satisfactory completion of both maneuvers as well as for proper exposure of the large abdominal vessels, with statistical analysis using the Mann-Whitnney test with a 5% significance level. Conclusion: The Cattell-Braasch maneuver, blunt dissection or surgical instruments are similarly quick for folding of the cecum and adequate exposure of the inferior vena cava. For Mattox maneuver, blunt dissection is quicker compared to that performed by surgical instruments for the folding of the sigmoid colon and large aortic exposure.
Exploration of the coefficients of correlation of different segmental measurements with total length of disarticulated femoral bones: a systematic review
Authors: Khanal L. , Shah S. , Koirala S.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: In a forensic case with availability of femoral fragments, estimation of the total femoral length of the available segment is one of the steps used for estimating an inidividual's stature. This estimation will be more accurate if the segment has a high coefficient of correlation with the total length of the femur. This article reviews the coefficients of correlation of different segmental measurements with femur length. Materials and Methods: Seventeen articles were selected from PubMed, Google Scholar and other public research sharing sites. Articles with coefficients of correlation of segmental measurements with the total length of the femur were included in the study. Results and Discussion: Among the 17 articles, two were related to measurement of the proximal part of the femur only, one was concerned with femoral shaft measurement only, 7 focus on the distal part only, 3 concerned both proximal and distal parts, and 4 articles included all parts of the femur. Sample sizes varied from 50 to 2388 femur bones. The value of the coefficient of correlation (‘r’) was found to vary with respect to gender and nationality. The value of ‘r’ for several width measurements of the segments had a higher correlation among females compared to male individuals. Conclusion: Though segment 1 of the proximal part, segment 3 of the shaft, and the epicondylar and bicondylar breadths of the distal part of the femur are highly correlated with the total length of femur, an investigator should also consider of gender, race, ethnicity and environmental factors when choosing the femur segment that has the highest value of ‘r’.
A report on the accessory head of Flexor Pollicis Longus and Variations of Forearm Musculature
Authors: Hafez S.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Gantzer's muscle has drawn attention from several authors owing to the possibility of interosseous nerve compression. This is a report of an accessory head of flexor pollicis longus (FPL, a variant of Gantzer's muscle) and a review of the variations of all muscles of the forearm. Materials and Methods: An accessory head of FPL was discovered in both the right and left antebrachial regions during a cadaver dissection. The muscle was dissected and photographed. Results: The anatomical variation I report is a slender conical muscle joining the FPL. Its origin merged with fibers of the flexor digitorum superficialis. It inserted into the upper part of the middle third of the forearm by joining the medial tendinous part of the FPL; this join was by means of a short cylindrical tendon. The reported muscle was innervated by the anterior interosseous nerve, which was seen to be present posterolateral to the muscle in both forearms. Conclusion: The described muscle might cause pressure problems to the underlying structures especially the anterior interosseous nerve. Variations must be considered during surgical intervention to avoid unintentional damage to healthy tendons. In addition, accessory tendons can potentially be useful in the repair or replacement of damaged tendons through surgical transfer or transplantation. Variations of muscles, especially accessory muscles, may mimic the behavior of soft tissue tumors and can result in nerve compressions. This collection of variations of the forearm musculature will be useful to surgeons in practice as well as students in dissection labs.
Anatomical studies on the cranial and caudal mesenteric arteries of the Barbados Black Belly sheep
Authors: Mohamed R.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: The Barbados Black Belly is a breed of domestic sheep in the Caribbean island of Trinidad. Anatomical studies on the cranial and caudal mesenteric arteries are necessary to know the pattern of its blood supply to gain information in benefit of experimental surgery. Materials and Methods: The thoracic part of the aorta of five sheep was injected with red latex. Careful gross dissection of the cranial and caudal mesenteric arteries was performed either after embedding in 10% formalin solution for 2-3 days. Results: The cranial mesenteric artery originated from the abdominal aorta, caudally to the celiac trunk, giving caudal duodenal artery, jejunal arteries, ileal arteries, ileocolic artery and middle colic artery. The caudal mesenteric artery arises from the aorta, cranially to the external iliac arteries, originating the left colic and cranial rectal arteries. Conclusion: cranial and caudal mesenteric arteries supplied the small and large intestine of the Barbados Black Belly sheep except caudal part of the large intestine which were supplied by the middle and caudal rectal arteries.
β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMβ), Physical training and skeletal muscle: a systematic review
Authors: Gonçalves L. , Madureira D. , Santana J. , França E. , Miranda M. , Souza R. , Caperuto E.
Published: July 2017

Skeletal muscle mass gain is beneficial in several situations. It improves athlete's performance and quality of life in pathological situations. The existence of different methods that are able to increase muscle mass brings up discussions about nutritional supplements use on physically active individuals. β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate is a Leucine metabolite and it's believed to have an anticatabolic effect with different results depending on the type of exercise done. Objective: The objective of this research was to identify and categorize the methodological features and results of β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMβ) studies, physical exercise and its effects on skeletal muscle in the last 20 years. Materials and Methods: We carried out a review in the literature using PUBMED and Medline data bases. We analyzed 19 articles from the 4587 initially found, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After the selection we analyzed the date of publishing and country of origin, sample size and type, dosage used, exercise protocol and results on skeletal muscle. Results: Most of the studies came from the USA, were published between the years of 2000 and 2005. Most of the papers used only males and the main dosage used was 3.0g/day with resistance exercise, although endurance exercise and untrained individuals showed some interesting results. Data from these studies varied from increase in muscle mass and muscle strength, recovery of isokinetic and isometric muscle function, decrease in lactate dehydrogenase and proteolysis and decrease in creatine kinase. Conclusion We can conclude that although HMβ has some positive effects on untrained individuals, its effects on trained individuals still need further conirmation.
Protective role of caffeine versus N-acetylcysteine in hyperoxic acute lung injury in neonatal rats
Authors: Sadek A. , Khattab R. , Amer A. , Youssef A.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Prolonged breathing of high oxygen concentration leads to hyperoxic acute lung injury. Neonatal Respiratory diseases usually require increased supplement of high oxygen concentrations, so neonates are more susceptible to hyperoxic acute lung injury. The aim of this work was to investigate the protective role of caffeine versus N-acetylcysteine against hyperoxic acute lung injury in neonatal rats. Materials and Methods: 32 albino rats aged seven days were used in this experiment. The pups were divided into four groups; 1) Control or normoxic group; rats placed in normoxic chamber where fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) was 0.21, 2) Hyperoxic group; rats were placed in hyperoxic chamber (FiO2>0.8) using an oxygen flow of 1.5 Litre/min, 3) Hyperoxia-CAF group; rats exposed to hyperoxia and received a single intra-peritoneal injection of 20 mg/kg caffeine just prior to exposure, and 4) Hyperoxia-NAC group; rats exposed to hyperoxia and received a single intra-peritoneal injection of 150 mg/kg N-acetylcysteine just prior to exposure. 48 hours after exposure, lung specimens were processed for histological and immunohistochemical study using caspase-3, cluster of differentiation-68-antibody (CD68) and interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β). Results: Neonatal hyperoxia led to severe impairment in lung architecture, with a highly significant increase in alveolar macrophages. Also, caspase and IL-1β immune-reaction were increased significantly as compared to control group. Caffeine could improve the histolopathological picture of hyperoxic acute lung injury, and also could decrease alveolar macrophage count and IL-1β immune-reaction better than N-acetylcysteine. Conclusion: Caffeine is more effective than N-acetylcysteine in prophylaxis against hyperoxic acute lung injury in neonates.
Influence of Ultrasonic Nanocrystal Surface Modification on the Corrosion and Stress Corrosion Cracking Behavior of Low Carbon Steel (ASTM A139) Welded Joint in the Simulated District Heating Environment
Authors: Kim Yong-Sang , Kim Woo-Cheol , Kim Jung-Gu
Published: July 2017

The effect of ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM) on the corrosion and stress corrosion cracking behavior of low carbon steel (ASTM A139) welded joint in the simulated district heating water (internal heating water) were investigated. After UNSM treatment, the microstructures of welded joint were transformed from the grain boundary ferrite and widmanstätten ferrite to polygonal ferrite accompanied by grain refinement. In electrochemical tests, the corrosion resistance of the welded joint was increased after UNSM treatment as a result of the grain refinement and improved stability of the oxide film. The stress corrosion cracking behavior was measured by slow strain rate tests with accelerated anodic and cathodic reactions. The results indicated that the UNSM treatment had a significant effect on the corrosion condition, whereas UNSM had no effect on hydrogen embrittlement.
Monday Mo(u)rning
Authors: Levy Gary
Published: July 2017

This piece presents an imaginary scenario taking place in any typical primary school around Australia. It was developed for the special issue of Cosmopolitan Civil Societies Journal, on fake news and alternative facts, to show how these may arise in everyday practices.
Alternative facts and fake news entering journalistic content production cycle
Authors: Himma-Kadakas Marju
Published: July 2017

Processing information into journalistic content in contemporary news media creates a favorable environment for the distribution of misleading and fake information. This paper analyzes the distribution of alternative facts and fake news as a phenomenon characterizing post-fact society and how journalistic work processes may promote and legitimize the distribution of misleading content. The study looks into the back- and front-stage performances of journalistic information processing that are influenced by social time acceleration and the insistence of ‘click-bait’ news criteria. We used three different methods for teaching news reporting on three different groups of Estonian journalism students, and analyzed their performance using self-reflection in focus group interviews. Two groups of students, whose assignments were geared toward the outcome, focused more on front stage performances and underestimated back stage performances, e.g. the evaluation of sources, background information gathering, and fact checking. One group, which was taught news reporting as a process of information filtering, perceived and reflected both front and back stage performances. The results indicate that (online) newsroom practice, which is influenced by time pressure and the continuous requirement of new content, may force journalists to skip the stages of conventional journalistic information processing and due to that create favorable environment for publishing and distributing misleading and fake news.