bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Antioxidant Effect of Beta-Alanine or Carnosine Supplementation on Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: de França Elias , Lira Fábio Santos , Ruaro Marcio Flávio , Hirota Vinicius Barroso , Faria Waziry Paula A. , Fukushima André Rinaldi , Miranda Maria Luiza de Jesus , Caperuto Erico Chagas
Published: January 2019

The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the articles that addressed the effect BA or carnosine supplementation on physical exercise (PE)-induced oxidative stress (OS). Before May 2018 we searched throughout PubMed, CAPES Periodic and SPORTDiscus human model peer review, randomized control studies with chronic BA or carnosine supplementation on PE-induced OS. A total of 128 citations were found. Only four articles met criteria for inclusion. All four studies used healthy young sedentary, recreationally active or athletic participants. After a chronic BA or carnosine supplementation, the studies evaluated PE-induced OS both immediately and several hours after exercise (0.5 to 48 h). In response to PE-induced OS, when compared to placebo, BA/carnosine supplementation increased total antioxidant capacity [TAC; Effect Size (ES) = 0.35, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.06 to 0.65, p = 0.02] and glutathione (GSH; ES = 0.75, 95% CI 0.32 to 1.19, p = 0.0007) concentrations while decreased direct OS markers (ES = −1.19, 95% CI −1.48 to −0.80, p < 0.01) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (ES = − 0.58, 95% CI −1.10 to −0.06, p = 0.03). BA or carnosine supplementation did not prevent the increase in indirect OS markers (ES: 0.06, 95% CI −0.38 to 0.500, p = 0.80). In humans, following PE-induced OS, initial treatment trials of BA or carnosine supplementation seemed to increase TAC and GSH concentrations, while decreasing SOD activity. Also, albeit mitigating the acute increase in direct OS markers (reactive nitrogen and oxygen species), treatment did not decrease measured values of indirect OS markers (peroxidation or molecule oxidation).
Relativistic Jet Simulations of the Weibel Instability in the Slab Model to Cylindrical Jets with Helical Magnetic Fields
Authors: Nishikawa Ken-Ichi , Mizuno Yosuke , Gomez Jose l. , Dutan Ioana , Meli Athina , Niemiec Jacek , Kobzar Oleh , Pohl Martin , Sol Helen , MacDonald Nicholas , Hartmann Dieter H.
Published: January 2019

The Particle-In-Cell (PIC) method has been developed in order to investigate microscopic phenomena, and with the advances of computing power, newly developed codes have been used for several fields such as astrophysical, magnetospheric, and solar plasmas. PIC applications have grown extensively with large computing powers available on supercomputers such as Pleiades and Blue Waters in the US. For astrophysical plasma research PIC methods have been utilized for several topics such as reconnection, pulsar dynamics, non-relativistic shocks, relativistic shocks, relativistic jets, etc. PIC simulations of relativistic jets have been reviewed with the emphasis on the physics involved in the simulations. This review summarizes PIC simulations, starting with the Weibel instability in slab models of jets, and then focuses on global jet evolution in helical magnetic field geometry. In particular we address kinetic Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities and mushroom instabilities.
A Method of Solving Compressible Navier Stokes Equations in Cylindrical Coordinates Using Geometric Algebra
Authors: Moschandreou Terry E.
Published: January 2019

A method of solution to solve the compressible unsteady 3D Navier-Stokes Equations in cylindrical co-ordinates coupled to the continuity equation in cylindrical coordinates is presented in terms of an additive solution of the three principle directions in the radial, azimuthal and z directions of flow. A dimensionless parameter is introduced whereby in the large limit case a method of solution is sought for in the boundary layer of the tube. A reduction to a single partial differential equation is possible and integral calculus methods are applied for the case of a body force directed to the centre of the tube to obtain an integral form of the Hunter-Saxton equation. Also an extension for a more general body force is shown where in addition there is a rotational force applied.
Updating the Role of Reduced Graphene Oxide Ink on Field Emission Devices in Synergy with Charge Transfer Materials
Authors: Stylianakis Minas , Viskadouros George , Polyzoidis Christos , Veisakis George , Kenanakis George , Kornilios Nikolaos , Petridis Konstantinos , Kymakis Emmanuel
Published: January 2019

Hydroiodic acid (HI) treated - reduced graphene oxide (rGO) ink/conductive polymeric composites are considered as promising cold cathodes in terms of high geometrical aspect ratio and low field emission (FE) threshold devices. In this study, four simple, cost-effective, solution-processed approaches for rGO-based field effect emitters were developed, optimized and compared; rGO layers were coated on a) n+ doped Si substrate, b) n+-Si/P3HT:rGO, c) n+-Si/PCDTBT:rGO and d) n+-Si/PCDTBT:PC71BM:rGO composites, respectively. The fabricated emitters were optimized by tailoring the concentration ratios of their preparation and field emission characteristics. In a critical composite ratio, FE performance was remarkably improved compared to the pristine Si, as well as n+-Si/rGO field emitter. In this context, the impact of various materials, such as polymers, fullerene derivatives, as well as different solvents on rGO function reinforcement and consequently on FE performance upon rGO-based composites preparation was investigated. The field emitter consisted of n+-Si/PCDTBT:PC71BM(80%):rGO(20%)/rGO displayed a field enhancement factor of ∼2850, with remarkable stability over 20h and low turn-on field in 0.6V/μm. High-efficiency graphene-based FE devices realization paves the way towards low-cost, large-scale electron sources development. Finally, the contribution of this hierarchical, composite film morphology was evaluated and discussed.
Propranolol Treatment is Associated with Better Survival in Cirrhotic Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Lee Pei-Chang Lee , Chen Yu-Ju , Cho Yueh-Ching , Lee Kuei-Chuan , Chen Ping-Hsien , Kao Wei-Yu , Huang Yi-Hsiang , Huo Teh-Ia , Lin Han-Chieh , Hou Ming-Chih , Lee Fa-Yauh , Wu Jaw-Ching , Su Chien-Wei
Published: January 2019

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) reduces survival in cirrhotic patients and correlates with systemic inflammation and gut-liver disequilibrium. We investigated the association between propranolol treatment and outcomes for cirrhotic patients with HE. Using data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, we identified 4,754 cirrhotic patients newly diagnosed with HE. Among them, 519 patients received propranolol treatment and the other 519 patients without exposure to propranolol were enrolled into our study, both of which were matched by sex, age, and propensity score. The median overall survival (OS) was longer in the propranolol-treated cohort than in the untreated cohort (3.46 versus 1.88 years, p<0.001). A dose-dependent increase in survival was observed (median OS: 4.49, 3.29, and 2.46 years in patients treated with propranolol >30mg/day, 20–30mg/day, and <20mg/day, respectively [p<0.001, p=0.001, and p=0.079 versus the untreated group]). In addition to reduce the risk of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.58; p<0.001), propranolol also diminished the risk of sepsis-related death (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.31; p=0.006) according to the multivariate analysis. However, the risk of circulatory or hepatic failure was non-significantly altered by propranolol treatment. In conclusion, propranolol treatment was associated with a better OS in cirrhotic patients with HE and its effects were dose-dependent.
Validation of Selected Non-destructive Methods for Determining the Compressive Strength of Masonry Units Made of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete
Authors: Jasiński Radosław , Drobiec Łukasz , Mazur Wojciech
Published: January 2019

Semi-destructive and non-destructive techniques are not commonly used for masonry as they are complex and difficult to perform. This paper describes validation of the following methods: semi-destructive and non-destructive, ultrasonic technique for autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC). The research subject was the compressive strength of AAC test elements with declared various density classes of: 400, 500, 600 and 700 (kg/m3) and various moisture levels. Empirical data including the shape and size of specimens, were established from tests on 494 cylindrical and cuboid specimens, and standard cube specimens 100×100×100 mm using the general relationship for standard concrete (Neville’s curve). The effect of moisture on AAC was taken into account while determining the strength fBw for 127 standard specimens tested at different levels of water content (w = 100%, 67%, 33% 23% and 10%). Defined empirical relations can be used to correct the compressive strength of dry specimens. For 91 specimens 100×100×100 mm, the P-wave velocity cp was tested with the transmission method using using the ultrasonic pulse velocity method with exponential transducers. The curve (fBw – cp) for determining the compressive strength of AAC elements with any moisture level (fBw) was established.
Practical Interventions to Improve Domain-Specific Social, Emotional, or Academic Outcomes for Twice-Exceptional Individuals (2e)
Authors: Carroll La Shun L.
Published: January 2019

What began nearly a century ago with the contributions of Hollingworth and Asperger, among others, has developed into a field dedicated to the study of gifted individuals with a disability.   These twice-exceptional (2e) people and their unique set of needs differ from those of their once-exceptional counterparts on either end of the spectrum and often remain unaddressed or are discovered very late in life resulting in longterm consequences.  For those discovered, effective treatment options to improve their quality of life remain uncertain.  The goal of the present paper was to determine whether effective interventions exist to improve domain-specific (i.e., social, emotional, or academic) outcomes for people exhibiting both signs of giftedness and disability.   A query was performed using evidence databases TRIP and PDQ in addition to University at Buffalo Libraries holdings for "twice-exceptional," "Giftedness," "Disability," and "intervention." The hits were reduced to the four most relevant, freely available studies in English that were selected for critique.  Despite the selected studies being found to share methodological similarities that were their strengths and conducive to comparison, they also had threats to validity that served as potential weakness.  Not only can directly effective interventions improve specific domains for 2e individuals, but the effects of domain-specific interventions may carry over into another domain resulting in indirect effects.
Metrological and Critical Characterization of the Intel D415 Stereo Depth Camera
Authors: Carfagni Monica , Furferi Rocco , Governi Lapo , Santarelli Chiara , Servi Michaela , Uccheddu Francesca , Volpe Yary
Published: January 2019

Low-cost RGB-D cameras are increasingly used in several research fields including human-machine interaction, safety, robotics, biomedical engineering and even Reverse Engineering applications. Among the plethora of commercial devices, the Intel RealSense cameras proved to be among the best suitable devices, providing a good compromise between cost, ease of use, compactness and precision. Released on the market in January 2018, the new Intel model RealSense D415 has a wide acquisition range (i.e. ~160-10000 mm) and a narrow field of view to capture objects in rapid motion. Given the unexplored potential of this new device, especially when used as a 3D scanner, the present work aims to characterize and to provide metrological considerations on the RealSense D415. In particular, tests are carried out to assess the device performances in the near range (i.e. 100-1000 mm). Characterization is performed by integrating the guidelines of the existing standard (i.e. the German VDI/VDE 2634 part 2 normative) with a number of literature-based strategies. Performance analysis is finally compared against latest close-range sensors, thus providing a useful guidance for researchers and practitioners aiming to use RGB-D cameras in Reverse Engineering applications.
The Influence of Composite Laminate Stacking Sequence on Failure Load of Bonding Joints Using Experimental and Artificial Neural Networks Methods
Authors: Birecikli Bahadir , Karaman Omer Ali , Celebi Selahattin Baris , Turgut Aydin
Published: January 2019

The objective of this article was to forecast the ultimate failure load laminate stacking sequence combination on bonding joints which are exposed to tensile strength by using artificial neural networks. We have glass fiber composite materials with three different sequence combinations ([0°/90°], [±45°], [0°/90°/±45°]). Various adherend thicknesses and also ductile type adhesive was used in the experiment. The bonding geometry is a single lap and has four types of overlap angles 30°, 45°, 60°, 75° respectively. The experimental results demonstrate that composite laminate stacking sequence profoundly affects the bonding joints of failure load. Taking experimental results into account, Levenberg–Marquardt learning algorithm model was used by preferring a three layer forward on ANN so as to discipline network. In order to procure a precise ANN tool, an integrate methodology of experimental method has been used. The outcomes are used to ensure the experimental data’s to the ANN. The method of ANN permits surveying much adequately the probabilities of composite laminate stacking sequence combination using the prevalent ones which are [0°/90°], [±45°] and [0°/90°/±45°]. Testing data and training results were quite well 0.998, 0.997 and 0.998 in turn. Consequences acquired can be used by engineers who are interested in the composite material design to enhance failure load.
Optimal Innovation Strategies in the Public Sector
Authors: Matei Ani , Săvulescu Carmen , Antonovici Corina-Georgiana , Ceche Reli
Published: January 2019

For the time being, public sector innovation gains new and complex forms of expression: managerial, institutional, technological or communication. This fact is also due to national and international important bodies’ interest for using innovation as resource and tool for public sector development. Characterised by complexity and adaptation, the innovative processes in the public sector embrace the form of medium and long term innovation strategies, holding high key socio-economic impact on the social utility of public sector innovation. The optimality of innovation strategies becomes a tool for improved decisions in public sector management, providing the methodology for their evaluation related to the objectives of development in the public sector.
Results-Based Conservation Aid: Amazon Fund 10 Years Later, Lessons from the World's Largest REDD+ Program
Authors: Correa Juliano , van der Hoff Richard , Rajão Raoni
Published: January 2019

Results-Based Aid (RBA) for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) has become an important instrument for channeling financial resources to forest conservation activities. At the same time, much literature on conservation aid is ambiguous about the effectiveness of existing RBA schemes. Many effectiveness evaluations follow a principal-agent model, although in practice the relation between aid providers and aid recipients is much more complex. As a consequence, intermediary steps of conservation aid are often not accounted for in aid effectiveness studies. This research paper aims to provide a nuanced understanding of conservation aid by analyzing the allocation of financial resources for one of the largest RBA schemes for REDD+ in the world: the Brazilian Amazon Fund. As part of this analysis, this study has built a dataset of information on Amazon Fund projects at unprecedented detail in order to accurately reconstruct the allocation of financial resources across different stakeholders, geographies and activities. The results show that stakeholders seem to hold preferences with respect to the type of activities that they support, thereby suggesting that project owners exert much influence on how deforestation reduction is to be attained. There are evidences that governmental organizations lack financial additionality of their projects, which renders stakeholder influence on conservation aid effectiveness particularly worrisome. By contrast, the geographical distribution of financial resources seemed to follow a more focused rationale as financial support tends to concentrate in areas where deforestation threats are highest. Overall, the allocation of the financial resources from the Amazon Fund reflects an arbitrary support of different projects that adopt very diverging theories of change that are not primarily concerned with attaining further deforestation reductions. As projects owners exert influence on aid effectiveness to some extent, the Amazon Fund may either seek to regulate the allocation of financial resources more actively or adopt aid effectiveness evaluations that account for this influence more comprehensively.
ZIF-8 Derived Hollow Carbon for Efficient Adsorption of Antibiotics
Authors: Tang Hongmei , Li Wenyao , Jiang Haishun , Lin Runjia , Wang Zhe , Wu Jianghong , He Guanjie , Shearing Paul R. , Brett Dan J. L.
Published: January 2019

The harmful nature of high concentrations of antibiotics to humans and animals requires urgent development of novel materials and techniques for their absorption. In this work, CTAB (Cetyltrimethyl Ammonium Bromide)-assisted synthesis of ZIF-8 (zeolitic imidazolate framework) derived hollow carbon (ZHC) was designed, prepared and used as a high-performance adsorbent, further evaluated by Langmuir and Freundlich isothermal adsorption experiments, dynamic analysis as well as theoretical calculation. The maximum capacities of ZHC on adsorbing tetracycline (TC), norfloxacin (NFO) and levofloxacin (OFO) are 267.3, 125.6 and 227.8 mg g-1, respectively, which delivers superior adsorptive performance when compared to widely studied inorganic adsorbates. The design concept of ZIFs-derived hollow carbon material provides guidance and insights for the efficient adsorbent of environmental antibiotics.
White Paper on the Biologization of Materials Research
Authors: Niemeyer Christof M. , Bastmeyer Martin , Bräse Stefan , Lahann Jörg , Woell Christof
Published: January 2019

The recommendations of the panel of experts on the further development of the ‘High-Tech Strategy’ of the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany designate the biologization of economic processes along with digitization as the central driver of societal change. Various fields such as the 'biologization of materials research' were then defined in the 'Bio-Agenda' in order to walk the path from biology to innovation. In view of this perspective, we describe how the use of biological materials and mechanisms can lead to resource conservation, the production of intelligent materials and new technological and medical applications. Our strategy, based on research on ‘Biointerfaces in Technology and Medicine’, aims at the development of modular biohybrid systems that could be used as 'biofactories of the future' for sustainable production processes. To achieve this goal, in a first phase already known technologies have to be further refined and integrated in order to obtain and apply compartmentalized reaction systems on different length and time scales. In a second phase, the resulting functional units will be employed to develop dissipative systems useful for biomedical applications and advanced production processes. From a technical point of view, future success in creating 'something entirely new' will depend crucially on robust and complementary research capabilities. Since the close connection of engineering and life sciences at KIT provides an excellent basis for this endeavor, we consider the above perspectives to be feasible.
Mechanisms of Aggresome Biogenesis Ubiquitination, Transport, & Maintenance
Authors: Keefe AJ
Published: January 2019

Neurodegenerative diseases are universally marked by the accumulation of misfolded protein. Neurons respond to these proteostatic disturbances by sequestering, and thus inactivating, toxic misfolded proteins into a perinuclear organelle called the aggresome. The aggresome can be subsequently degraded in bulk by autophagy, a process termed aggrephagy. The formation of protein aggregates has historically been considered a spontaneous and unregulated process, but emerging research has instead discovered a diverse cohort of regulatory proteins that mediate protein aggregation. Chaperones are the first proteins to respond to misfolded proteins, and do so by recognizing the aberrant exposure of hydrophobic domains. When chaperones are unable to correctly refold proteins, their substrates are  transferred to ubiquitin ligating machinery to catalyze polyubiquitination. Although ubiquitin chains typically direct proteins towards proteasomes, severe proteotoxic stress can overwhelm, or even directly inhibit, proteasomes. As an alternative to proteasomal degradation, misfolded proteins are redirected towards the mitotic organizing center (MTOC) and, following retrograde transport by dynein, are packaged and sequestered within an intermediate filament (IF) cage to form the aggresome. The biogenesis of the aggresome is thus a highly regulated event, and a better understanding of the mechanisms facilitating this process will provide critical insight into neurodegenerative disease.
Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics (MD) Simulation of Human Anti Complement Factor H (CFH) Antibody Ab42 and CFH Polypeptide (pCFH)
Authors: Yang Bing , Ren Jiayi , Liu Tong , Lin Shujian , Wang Yueming , Li Chengming , He Youwen , Xu Wenwen , Zheng Weihong , Yuan Xiaohui , Liao Huaxin
Published: January 2019

The details of antigen-antibody interactions and the identification of epitopes are critical for the development of monoclonal antibody drugs. Ab42 is a native human-derived anti-CFH monoclonal antibody. In this study, the interaction between antigen pCFH and antibody (Ab42) was theoretically demonstrated by molecular docking and MD simulation, combined with free energy calculation and computational alanine scanning (CAS), and key amino acids and epitopes were identified. Experimental alanine scanning (EAS) was then carried out to verify the results of the calculation, and our results indicated that Ab42 antibody forms hydrogen bonds and interacts hydrophobically with pCFH through the Tyr315, Ser100, Gly33, and Tyr53 residues on its CDR, while the main pCFH epitopes are located at the six sites of Pro441, Ile442, Asp443, Asn444, Ile447, and Thr448. In conclusion, this study has explored the mechanism of antigen-antibody interaction from both theoretical and experimental aspects, and our results have important theoretical significance for the design and development of relevant antibody drugs.
Incremental Predictive Value of Longitudinal Axis Strain and Late Gadolinium Enhancement Using Standard CMR Imaging in Patients with Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Agoston-Coldea Lucia , Bheecarry Kunal , Cionca Carmen , Petra Cristian , Strimbu Lelia , Ober Camelia , Lupu Silvia , Fodor Daniela , Mocan Teodora
Published: January 2019

To analyze the predictive ability and incremental value of left ventricular longitudinal axis strain (LAS) and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) using standard cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging for the diagnosis and prognosis of severe aortic stenosis (AS) in patients with an indication for aortic valve replacement. We conducted a prospective study on 128 patients with severe AS and 52 volunteers. The evaluation protocol included standard biochemistry tests, novel biomarkers of myocardial fibrosis, 12-lead electrocardiograms and 24-hour Holter, the 6-minute walk test and extensive echocardiographic and CMR imaging studies. Outcomes were defined as the composite of major cardiovascular events (MACEs). Among AS patients, most (n = 17, 77.2%) of those who exhibited LGE at CMR imaging had MACEs during follow-up. Kaplan-Meier curves for event-free survival showed a significantly higher rate of MACEs in patients with LGE (p < 0.01) and decreased LAS (p < 0.001). In Cox regression analysis, only reduced LAS [hazard ratio 1.33, 95%CI (1.01 to 1.74), p < 0.01] and the presence of LGE [hazard ratio 11.3, 95%CI (1.82 to 70.0), p < 0.01] were independent predictors for MACEs. The predictive value increased if both LGE and reduced LAS were added to LVEF. None of the biomarkers of increased collagen turnover exhibited any predictive value for MACEs. LAS by CMR is an independent predictor of outcomes in patients with AS and provides incremental value beyond the assessment of LVEF and the presence of LGE.
Linear Statistical Models, Least-Squares Estimators, and Classication Analysis to Reverse-Order Laws for Generalized Inverses of Matrix Products
Authors: Tian Yongge
Published: January 2019

Reverse-order laws for generalized inverses of matrix products is a classic object of study in the theory of generalized inverses. One of the well-known reverse-order laws for a matrix product AB is (AB)(i,...,j) = B(i,...,j)A(i,...,j), where (·)i,...,j denotes an {i,...,j}-generalized inverse of matrix. Because {i,...,j}-generalized inverse of a general matrix is not necessarily unique, the relationships between both sides of the reverse-order law can be divided into four situations for consideration. In this article, we first introduce a linear mixed model y = ABβ + Aγ + ε, present two least-squares  methodologies to estimate the fixed parameter vector in the model, and describe the connections between the two least-squares estimators and the reverse-order laws for generalized inverses of the matrix product AB. We then prepare some valued matrix analysis tools, including a general theory on linear or nonlinear matrix identities, a group of expansion formulas for calculating ranks of block matrices, two groups of explicit formulas for calculating the maximum and minimum ranks of B(i,...,j)A(i,...,j), as well as necessary and sufficient conditions for B(i,...,j)A(i,...,j) to be invariant with respect to the choice of A(i,...,j) and B(i,...,j). We then present a unied approach to the 512 set inclusion problems {(AB)(i,...,j) ⊇ {B(i,...,j)A(i,...,j)}for the eight commonly-used types of generalized inverses of A, B, and AB using the block matrix representation method (BMRM), matrix equation method (MEM), and matrix rank method (MRM), where {(·)(i,...,j)} denotes the collection of all {i,...,j}-generalized inverse of a matrix.
Awareness and Attitudes toward Corneal Transplants among Applicants and Staff of a Driver, Vehicle and Licensing Authority (DVLA) in Ghana
Authors: Lartey Seth , ANTWI-ADJEI ELLEN KONADU , Agyapong Solomon , Mohammed Abdul-Kabir , Mensah Derrick N.O. , Genego Edward S
Published: January 2019

Introduction: Corneal transplantations are surgeries performed for irreparable corneal diseases and damage. However, there is a gap between the number of potential recipients and the number of donor corneas available. The main aim of the study was to determine the awareness and attitudes towards corneal transplants among applicants and staff of DVLA, Kumasi-Ghana.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. 100 participants were selected using convenient sampling method. A structured questionnaire was used to elicit responses from participants concerning awareness and attitudes toward corneal transplant.
Results: The mean ± SD age of the participants was 32.05 ± 11.48years and age range, 18-67years. Males were 66% whilst females constituted 34%. 32.7% of the participants were aware of corneal transplant. Majority of the participants were Christians (83.1%) and Singles (63%). Television was the source of information with the highest preponderance (49.4%). 67.3% were willing to donate their corneas after death. 63.9% were willing to indicate their donor statuses on drivers’ license form which had a significant association with willingness to donate cornea after death (p<0.05, ᵪ2= 12.187).
Conclusion: There is a poor level of awareness (32.7%) of transplant donation amongst the study population but and a good level of willingness to donate organs (67%). Consent via driving license would seem to be a good potential mode of obtaining consent to supplement the harvesting of adequate tissues for transplant if adequate awareness is created.
Keywords: Knowledge, Willingness, Unwillingness, Cornea, DVLA
Inspiratory critical pressure - new methodology for evaluating and training the inspiratory musculature for recreational cyclists: study protocol for a randomized control trial
Authors: Rehder-Santos Patricia , Minatel Vinicius , Milan-Mattos Juliana Cristina , Signini Étore De Favari , de Abreu Raphael Martins , Dato Carla Cristina , Catai Aparecida Maria
Published: January 2019

Background: Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has brought great benefits in terms of improving physical performance in healthy individuals. However, there is no consensus regarding the best training load being in most cases the maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) is used, mainly the intensity of 60% of MIP. So, the prescription of an IMT protocol that considers respiratory muscle strength and endurance may bring additional benefits to commonly used protocols, since the respiratory muscles that differ from other muscles because of their greater muscular resistance. Thus, IMT using inspiratory critical pressure (PThC) can be an alternative as the calculation of PThC considers these characteristics. Therefore, the aim of this study is to propose a new IMT protocol to determine the best training load for recreational cyclists.
Methods: Thirty recreational cyclists (between 20-40 years) will be randomized into the SHAM Group (SG), the PThC Group (PCG) and the 60% of MIP Group (60G), according to age and aerobic functional capacity. All participants will undergo the following evaluations: pulmonary function test (PFT), respiratory muscle strength test (RMS), cardiopulmonary test (CPET), incremental respiratory muscle endurance test (iRME) [maximal sustained respiratory pressure for 1 minute (PThMAX)] and constant load test (CLT) (95%, 100% and 105% of PThMÁX) using a linear load inspiratory resistor (PowerBreathe K5). The PThC will be calculated from the inspiratory muscle endurance time (TLIM) and inspiratory loads of each CLT. The IMT will last 11 weeks (3 times/week and 1 hour/session). The session will consist of 5-minute warm-ups (50% of the training load) and 3 sets of 15-minute breaths (100% of the training load), with a 1-minute interval between them. RMS, iRME, CLT and CPET will be performed beforehand, at week 3 and 7 (to adjust the training load) and after training. PFT will be performed before and after training. The data will be analyzed using specific statistical tests (parametric or non-parametric) according to the data distribution and their respective variances. The p <0.05 will be established.
Discussions: It is expected that the results of this study will enable the training performed with PThC to be used by health professionals as a new tool to evaluate and prescribe IMT. Clinical Trial: ClinicalTrial.gov, ID Number NCT02984189. Registered on December 6, 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02984189.
Keywords: Physical Exercise, Physiotherapy, Physical Performance, Critical Power, Respiratory Muscle
Clinical predictors of neonatal sepsis
Authors: Gizatullin R. Kh. , Mironov Petr Ivanovich
Published: January 2019

One of the key issues in the fight against sepsis is the early detection of its predictors. The aim of the work is to identify predictors the development of neonatal sepsis.
Methods. Design-retrospective, observational, single-center. The development included 163 newborns with sepsis, 34 died. The Kulbak measure was used to assess the informativeness of the studied clinical and laboratory variables. The function of response was taken as the outcome of the disease: survived or died.
Results. The analysis of the informative value of clinical and laboratory parameters in newborns on the risk of development of lethal outcome.
Conclusion. The predictors of early neonatal sepsis include indicators of the number of blood platelets, total blood protein, body weight and the number of blood neutrophils. Their critical threshold values are also calculated.
Role of ultrasound in diagnosing volume status in critically ill patients
Authors: Starostin D. O. , Kuzovlev Artem N.
Published: January 2019

Currently, various methods are available for assessing volemic status and volume responsiveness in critically ill patients. A significant advantage of ultrasound methods is their non-invasiveness, ease of use, and a quick learning curve, which makes them probably the most promising in the clinical practice. This literature review outlines the basic principles of diagnosis and evaluation of the volemic status of critically ill patients. The informativity of central venous pressure, hemodynamic tests (volume loading teats, passive leg raising test), as well as instrumental methods for assessing volemic status, in particular ultrasound (assessment of respiratory modulation of the inferior vena cava, collapse of internal jugular vein, transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography).
Organoprotective effects of the α2-adrenoreceptor agonist dexmedetomidine (literature review)
Authors: Vitik A. A. , Shen N. P.
Published: January 2019

Currently, in experimental and clinical studies of critical states, scientists attend to the issues of protecting and preserving the functions of vital organs and systems. The pharmacological aspects of organoprotection with various drugs are considered separately. In this question, α2-adrenoreceptor agonists are of the greatest interest. The study is devoted to the analysis of domestic and foreign literature covering the efficacy of using dexmedetomidine adrenergic mimetic, its mechanisms of action and organ-preventive properties in ECMO patients with organic and mental disorders. Formulated aspects need to study the use of this drug in order to prevent neurocognitive and organ dysfunction in surgical and therapeutic patients who are in intensive care units.
Comment on the article of К.А. Tokmakov et al. “English for anesthesiologist: fashion or necessity?”
Authors: Zilber Anatoly P.
Published: January 2019

Comment on the article of К.А. Tokmakov et al. “English for anesthesiologist: fashion or necessity?”
Comparative Study of Mycophenolate Mofetil and Methotrexate in Graft-Versus-Host Disease Prophylaxis in Adult Recipients of Related and Unrelated Allo-HSCT
Authors: Moiseev Ivan Sergeevich , Tarakanova Yu.A. , Alyanskii A.L. , Babenko E.V. , Kanunnikov M.M. , Dubkova V.A. , Morozova E.V. , Darskaya E.I. , Slesarchuk O.A. , Kulagin A.D. , Bondarenko S.N. , Afanas'ev B.V.
Published: January 2019

Background. Although the use of methotrexate (MTX) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) for prophylaxis of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) was compared in a large number of studies, the published results are contradictory. This fact provides ground for the present retrospective single-center trial comparing these two approaches in GVHD prophylaxis. Materials & Methods. The present study included 294 allo-HSC recipients with MTX prophylaxis and 172 allo-HSC recipients with MMF prophylaxis. 36 % of patients underwent matched related donor transplantation, and 64 % of patients received matched unrelated donor transplantation. Results. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that probability of acute grade 2-4 GVHD was 36 % vs. 39 % (hazard ratio [HR] 1.297; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.931-1.795; p = 0.122), grade 3-4 GVHD was 21 % vs. 25 % (HR 1.472; 95% CI 0.951-2.256; p = 0.05), and probability of chronic GVHD was 52 % vs. 55 % (HR 0.978; 95% CI 0.951-1.406; p = 0.91). In the MTX and MMF groups there were no significant differences in transplantation mortality (HR 1.173; 95% CI 0.797-1.708; p = 0.43), relapse incidence (HR 1.034; 95% CI 0.743-1.428; p = 0.84), overall survival (HR 1.087; 95% CI 0.825-1.433; p = 0.55), event-free survival (HR 1.108; 95% CI 0.854-1.437; p = 0.43), disease and GVHD free survival (HR 1.065; 95% CI 0.845-1.343; p = 0.59). Engraftment occurred earlier when MMF was used (p = 0.035). Administration of MMF instead of MTX was associated with lower probability of grade 3-4 toxic hepatitis (7 % vs. 31 %; p < 0.0001) and grade 3-4 mucositis (23 % vs. 45 %; p = 0.0002). Conclusion. The efficacy of GVHD prophylaxis using MMF is comparable with that of MTX, but MMF is associated with a better safety profile due to reduced incidence of severe liver toxicity and mucositis.
Comparative Efficacy Analysis of Mobilization and Collection of Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cells in Patients with Lymphoproliferative Disorders and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Fedyk Oksana Vladimirovna , Sarzhevskii V.O. , Fedorenko D.A. , Mel'nichenko V.Ya. , Dubinina Yu.N. , Mochkin N.E. , Smirnova E.G. , Kolesnikova D.S. , Bannikova A.E.
Published: January 2019

Aim. Comparative efficacy analysis of autologous hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) prior to auto-HSCT in patients with lymphoproliferative disorders (LPDs) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Materials & Methods. The trial included 237 patients: 103 LPD and 134 MS patients. In 225 patients HSC mobilization involved only colony-stimulating factors (CSFs), in 12 patients chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, etoposide) was combined with CSFs. On the intended date of cytapheresis all the patients were tested for CD34+ marker expression. Сytapheresis followed in the patients with CD34+ count more than 0.01 x 106/mL. Results. In 23 (22 %) LPD patients CD34+ count was too low for auto-HSCT (‘collection failure group'). Within this group 19 patients received CSF mobilization, and 4 patients received chemotherapy + CSF. Plerixafor was administered in 5 patients, in 4 of them a repeated mobilization also failed to collect enough cells. In 80 LPD patients the number of mobilized and collected CD34+ cells was sufficient for auto-HSCT (‘collection success group'). Within this group 77 patients received auto-HSCT, 74 patients were treated with CSF mobilization, 6 patients received chemotherapy + CSF, and in 11 patients plerixafor was administered. Median total number of CD34+ cells in the ‘collection success group' was 2.7 x 106/kg. All 134 MS patients had enough CD34+ cells for auto-HSCT. All of them received CSF mobilization. Median total number of CD34+ cells in the MS group was 2.34 x 106/kg. Potential risk factors for HSC mobilization failure in LPDs were evaluated. They included age, gender, prior radiotherapy, number of antitumor treatment lines prior to auto-HSCT, clinical response prior to auto-HSCT (complete/partial remission or stabilization), and HSC mobilization regimen. These factors with the exception of gender were not associated with mobilization failure parameters. The worst mobilization outcomes were reported in male patients. Conclusion. In 22 % of LPD patients the planned high-dose chemotherapy and auto-HSCT failed due to insufficient counts of autologous CD34+ cells in apheresis product. Male gender can be considered to be a prognostic factor of mobilization failure in LPDs.
Primary Mediastinal (Thymic) Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Experience in Treating 131 Patients at a National Medical Research Center in Russia
Authors: Zavodnova I.Z. , Kichigina M.Yu. , Paramonova E.V. , Ryabukhina Yu.E. , Kolomeitsev O.A. , Trofimova O.P. , Volkova N.V. , Pryamikova Yu.I. , Kokosadze N.V. , Tumyan Gayane Sergeevna
Published: January 2019

Background. Primary mediastinal (thymic) large B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL) is one of the primary extranodal tumors and originates from B-cells of thymic medulla. This disease is characterized by specific immunomorphologic and genetic features which distinguish it from other malignant lymphoproliferative disorders with similar parameters. Standard PMBCL treatment consists of immunochemotherapy and subsequent radiotherapy of residual mediastinal tumor. The advantages of one immunochemotherapy regimens over the other in controlled studies have not been shown. Aim. To study current approaches to chemoradiation in PMBCL patients with an attempt to individualize them focusing on various prognostic factors. Materials & Methods. The data of 131 patients with newly diagnosed PMBCL were analyzed, all of them were treated at NN Blokhin National Medical Cancer Research Center in the period from 2000 to 2017. More than a half were women (58 %), median age was 30 years (range 16-70). At different historical periods PMBCL treatment was performed using different immunochemotherapy regimens: MACOP-B±R in 55 (42 %) patients, R-CHOP in 40 (30.5 %) patients, and R-DA-EPOCH in 36 (27.5 %) patients. Radiotherapy was used to treat 99 out of 131 patients. Results. In general, the treatment of all PMBCL patients (n = 131) appeared to be highly effective. The remission rate was 87 %, 3-year progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) was 78 % and 88 %, respectively. With median follow-up of 37 months relapses and progression of the disease were detected in 17 (13 %) out of 131 patients within a period of 13 months after initiation of antitumor treatment. There was not a single case of late relapse. The treatment of relapsed patients was not effective: 12-month OS was not higher than 37 %. Intensive immunochemotherapy regimens ACOP±R, R-DA-EPOCH) do not differ in their effectiveness, but they have significant advantages over the standard R-CHOP regimen. The results of positron emission tomography (PET) considered to be an important prognostic factor in PMBCL treatment: 3-year PFS in the PET-negative group was 92 % vs. 26 % in the PET-positive group. Conclusion. The optimal algorithm of PMBCL treatment was elaborated with consideration of clinical factors, immunochemotherapy programs, degrees of tumor regression, its metabolic activity, and radiotherapy method and irradiation area.
Diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Originating From T-Lineage Precursors and Approaches to Minimal Residual Disease Monitoring
Authors: Chernysheva Ol'ga Alekseevna , Grivtsova L.Yu. , Serebryakova I.N. , Kupryshina N.A. , Sholokhova E.N. , Shervashidze M.A. , Palladina A.D. , Kurdyukov B.V. , Popa A.V. , Tupitsyn N.N.
Published: January 2019

Background. Minimal residual disease (MRD) is an independent prognostic factor in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children. The immunological assessment of MRD cell count is based on aberrant immunophenotype of tumor lymphoblasts. However, in the case of ALL originating from T-lineage precursor cells (T-ALL) no clear aberrancy criteria have been defined, yet. Flow-cytometric MRD assessment in T-ALL can be based on characteristics of normal T-cell ontogenesis, i.e. the absence of normal T-lineage precursor cells (T-LP) in bone marrow. Aim. To assess the feasibility of immunological method of flow cytometry for MRD detection based on T-LP immunophenotype on Days 15 and 33 of treatment of T-ALL children. Materials & Methods. The analysis included the data on primary immunophenotype and MRD assessment on Days 15 and 33 of treatment of 31 T-ALL patients in the age of 2-17 years. In the majority of cases (61.3 %) the cortical/ thymic immuno-subvariant of ALL was detected, in the rest of cases (38.7 %) it was the pre-T-cell one. Diagnosis was based on cumulative results of morphocytochemical and immunological bone marrow analyses. Assessing the MRD state the morphological and immunological analyses of bone marrow aspirate were carried out in parallel with one and the same tube. All patients enrolled in the trial were treated at Scientific Research Institute of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology of NN Blokhin National Medical Cancer Research Center according to the ALL IC-BFM 2009 protocol. Results. Our study demonstrated that at all therapy stages MRD can be assessed by the unified immunological method based on detecting cyCD3+CD7+/++smCD3- (T-LP) immunophenotype cells. It is important to ensure that the correct clones of monoclonal antibodies are used for detecting CD3 cytoplasmic and membrane molecules (UCHT1 and SK7, respectively). Standard risk group included no patients. The majority of patients (76.2 %) treated according to ALL IC-BFM 2009 protocol were assigned to medium risk group on Day 15 of treatment. By Day 33 a quarter of them (25 %) was included into high risk group. Conclusion. The capabilities of multicolor flow cytometry allow for the most complete characterization of primary immu-nophenotype of tumor T-cell lymphoblasts for further search of leukemia-associated immunophenotypes. Specific ontogenesis features of normal T-cells enable unification of immunological approaches to MRD assessment at all stages of T-ALL therapy.
Epidemiology of Multiple Myeloma in Novosibirsk (Siberian Federal District)
Authors: Skvortsova Nataliya Valer'evna , Pospelova T.I. , Kovynev I.B. , Soldatova G.S. , Nechunaeva I.N.
Published: January 2019

Aim. To analyze major epidemiological parameters of multiple myeloma, i.e. registered incidence, prevalence, mortality, and survival in Novosibirsk, megalopolis in Siberian Federal District. Materials & Methods. The study covered medical records of 335 patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) treated from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2016 at the Center of Hematology in Novosibirsk. Median age was 67 years (range 30-89), the trial enrolled 218 (65 %) women and 117 (35 %) men. Results. Over the last decade the mean registered MM incidence in Novosibirsk increased by 1.6 times, and MM prevalence increased by 4.9 times. These parameters correspond to 2.4 and 13.8 per 100,000 population per year, respectively, with the linear trend of growth which demonstrates not only the increased number of patients with newly diagnosed MM, but the increased longevity of them. MM incidence and prevalence parameters are significantly higher in women than in men, which most probably can be accounted for by specific administrative factors in the Novosibirsk region. Yearly mortality of MM patients decreased from 28.3 % to 8.2 % with a negative linear trend over the entire analyzed period, which is most likely to be associated with availability of new drugs and transplantation procedures. Conclusion. The obtained epidemiological data will enable to plan the provision of timely and effective care for MM patients and to elaborate a system of judicious allocation of costly equipment and drugs.
Excess Nitrogen Exceeds the European Standards in Lettuce Grown under Greenhouse Conditions
Authors: Aydinsakir Koksal , Karaca Cihan , Ozkan Cevdet Fehmi , Dinc Nazmi , Buyuktas Dursun , Isik Mesut
Published: January 2019

Core Ideas

Lettuce yield was decreased by excessive nitrogen fertilization.

Deficit irrigation did not cause a decrease in yield.

Temperatures, photoperiod, and sunshine duration decreased the nitrate accumulation.

Nitrogen is one of the most important plant nutrients for lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. Kitare). However, excess use of N causes environmental and health problems. In this study, the response of lettuce plants to different amount of N and irrigation levels were studied. The experiment was conducted under glasshouse conditions for winter and spring growing seasons in Batı Akdeniz Agricultural Research Institute (BATEM), Antalya, Turkey. This study used a factorial design with three replications. Plant evapotranspiration varied from 14.4 to 28.8 and 16.3 to 32.6 L plant–1 in winter and spring, respectively. Nitrogen fertilizer levels affected lettuce yield in both growing seasons, whereas irrigation levels did not impact yield. The average yield varied from 354 to 472 g plant–1 in the winter growing season and from 333 to 611 g plant–1 in the spring growing season. The nitrate concentration in lettuce leaves increased with N rate and irrigation level, and was lower in spring than winter. The average nitrate accumulation varied from 4000 to 6000 and 2100 to 3600 mg kg–1, in the winter and spring growing season, respectively, exceeding the health standards of the European Union.