bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Storage Conditions of the Medicinal Herb Ilex asprella against the Sterigmatocystin Producer Aspergillus versicolor Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Lu Xiaofang , Luo Chaoquan , Xing Jianyong , Han Zhengzhou , Li Tong , Wu Weiwei , Xu Hui , Zhan Ruoting , Chen Weiwen
Published: November 2018

The root of Ilex asprella is a commonly used herb in Southern China, and also constitutes the main raw material of Canton herbal tea. I. asprella is readily contaminated by mildew because of rich nutrients. Aspergillus versicolor producing sterigmatocystin is one of the most common molds that contaminate foodstuffs and medicinal herbs. Previous study on the evaluation of fungal contamination on samples of I. asprella revealed that A. versicolor was the dominant contaminant. In this study, experiments based on response surface methodology combined with central composite design were carried out to determine the optimal storage conditions of I. asprella to minimize the contamination of sterigmatocystin. The herb, manually innoculated with A. versicolor, was stored under different temperatures (20–40 °C) and humidity (80–95%) for seven days. The effects of temperature and humidity were evaluated using total saponin, polysaccharide and the sterigmatocystin levels as quality indexes. The results showed that A. versicolor grew quickly and produced large amounts of sterigmatocystin on I. asprella, at humidity ranging from 85% to 90% and temperatures above 26 °C. Meanwhile, total saponin and polysaccharide amounts were reduced significantly. These findings suggested that I. asprella samples should be stored in an environment with humidity and temperature below 85% and 26 °C, respectively, to reduce A. versicolor growth and sterigmatocystin production.
Proteomics of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Reveals a Lung Oxidative Stress Response in Murine Herpesvirus-68 Infection
Authors: Bortz Eric , Wu Ting-Ting , Patel Parthive , Whitelegge Julian P. , Sun Ren
Published: November 2018

Murine herpesvirus-68 (MHV-68) productively infects mouse lungs, exhibiting a complex pathology characteristic of both acute viral infections and chronic respiratory diseases. We sought to discover proteins differentially expressed in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) from mice infected with MHV-68. Mice were infected intranasally with MHV-68. After nine days, as the lytic phase of infection resolved, differential BAL proteins were identified by two-dimensional (2D) electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. Of 23 unique proteins, acute phase proteins, vitamin A transport, and oxidative stress response factors Pdx6 and EC-SOD (Sod3) were enriched. Correspondingly, iNOS2 was induced in lung tissue by seven days post-infection. Oxidative stress was partly a direct result of MHV-68 infection, as reactive oxygen species (ROS) were induced in cultured murine NIH3T3 fibroblasts and human lung A549 cells infected with MHV-68. Finally, mice infected with a recombinant MHV-68 co-expressing inflammatory cytokine murine interleukin 6 (IL6) showed exacerbated oxidative stress and soluble type I collagen characteristic of tissue recovery. Thus, oxidative stress appears to be a salient feature of MHV-68 pathogenesis, in part caused by lytic replication of the virus and IL6. Proteins and small molecules in lung oxidative stress networks therefore may provide new therapeutic targets to ameliorate respiratory virus infections.
Synthesis and Translation of Viral mRNA in Reovirus-Infected Cells: Progress and Remaining Questions
Authors: Lemay Guy
Published: November 2018

At the end of my doctoral studies, in 1988, I published a review article on the major steps of transcription and translation during the mammalian reovirus multiplication cycle, a topic that still fascinates me 30 years later. It is in the nature of scientific research to generate further questioning as new knowledge emerges. Our understanding of these fascinating viruses thus remains incomplete but it seemed appropriate at this moment to look back and reflect on our progress and most important questions that still puzzle us. It is also essential of being careful about concepts that seem so well established, but could still be better validated using new approaches. I hope that the few reflections presented here will stimulate discussions and maybe attract new investigators into the field of reovirus research. Many other aspects of the viral multiplication cycle would merit our attention. However, I will essentially limit my discussion to these central aspects of the viral cycle that are transcription of viral genes and their phenotypic expression through the host cell translational machinery. The objective here is not to review every aspect but to put more emphasis on important progress and challenges in the field.
Lower Urinary Tract Neoplasia
Authors: Griffin Maureen A. , Culp William T. N. , Rebhun Robert B.
Published: November 2018

Lower urinary tract neoplasia in companion animals is a debilitating and often life-threatening disease. Tumors of the bladder, urethra, and prostate often occur independently, although extension of these tumors into adjacent regions of the lower urinary tract is documented frequently. The most common lower urinary tract tumor in dogs and cats is transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). In both dogs and cats, TCC affecting the urinary bladder is generally considered to be highly aggressive with both local and metastatic disease potential, and this disease poses unique treatment challenges. Whereas much literature exists regarding the TCC disease process, treatment options, and prognosis in dogs, relatively few studies on feline TCC have been published due to the lower incidence of TCC in this species. Prostate tumors, most commonly adenocarcinomas, occur less commonly in dogs and cats but serve an important role as a comparative model for prostate neoplasia in humans. This article serves as a review of the current information regarding canine and feline lower urinary tract neoplasia as well as the relevance of these diseases with respect to their human counterparts.
Impact of Different Reanalysis Data and Parameterization Schemes on WRF Dynamic Downscaling in the Ili Region
Authors: Zhou Yulin , Mu Zhenxia
Published: November 2018

Different reanalysis data and physical parameterization schemes for the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model are considered in this paper to evaluate their performance in meteorological simulations in the Ili Region. A 72-hour experiment was performed with two domains at the resolution of 27 km with one-way nesting of 9 km. (1) Final Analysis (FNL) and Global Forecast System (GFS) reanalysis data (hereafter, WRF-FNL experiment and WRF-GFS experiment, respectively) were used in the WRF model. For the simulation of accumulated precipitation, both the WRF-FNL (mean bias of 0.79 mm) and WRF-GFS (mean bias of 0.31 mm) simulations can display the main features of the general temporal pattern and geographical distribution of the observed precipitation. For the simulation of the 2-m temperature, the simulation of the WRF-GFS experiment (mean warm bias of 1.81 °C and correlation coefficient of 0.83) was generally better than that of the WRF-FNL experiment (mean cold bias of 1.79 °C and correlation coefficient of 0.27). (2) Thirty-six physical combination schemes were proposed, each with a unique set of physical parameters. Member 33 (with the smallest mean-metric of 0.53) performed best for the precipitation simulation, and member 29 (with the smallest mean-metric of 0.64) performed best for the 2-m temperature simulation. However, member 29 and 33 cannot be distinguished from the other members according to their parameterizations. For this domain, ensemble members that contain the Mellor–Yamada–Janjic (MYJ) boundary layer (PBL) scheme and the Grell–Devenyi (GD) cumulus (CU) scheme are recommended for the precipitation simulation. The Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL) radiation (RA) scheme and the MYJ PBL scheme are recommended for the 2-m temperature simulation.
Indication of Groundwater Contamination Using Acesulfame and Other Pollutants in a Rural Area of Korea
Authors: Lee Chung-Mo , Hamm Se-Yeong , Yun Sul-Min , Oh Jeong-Eun , Kim MoonSu , Kim Hyun Koo
Published: November 2018

Approximately 40,000 chemical products are currently used in Korea; these products can contaminate the groundwater/soil, the surrounding environment, and organisms for extended periods of time. In this study, a hydrological field survey, a water quality analysis, and groundwater modeling were performed to identify the source and transport path of pollution that was caused by inorganic matter and artificial sweeteners, especially acesulfame, in the groundwater of an agricultural area in Chungnam Province, Korea. In the study area, a higher concentration of acesulfame displayed a spatial distribution similar to nitrate-nitrogen concentration. The characteristics of the groundwater flow and the distribution of the acesulfame were simulated using the Visual MODFLOW Classic Interface ver. 2014.1 and the MT3DMS module, respectively. The modeled area was divided into hilly (southern), residential (northwest), and agricultural (northeast) zones. The stream’s boundary was set to be the drainage channel in the southern hilly zone. From the simulation, we found that acesulfame spread actively from the source for 1–3 years before it reached equilibrium in the northern part of the model domain (the area downstream of the stream’s boundary). The concentration of acesulfame in the agricultural zone of the model domain decreased after five years, and it reached the steam boundary and residential zone within 10 years. After 10 years, most of the acesulfame was discharged from the agricultural zone and the hilly zone, while the concentration in the residential zone was approximately the same. Acesulfame is considered to be a potential indicator of man-made contamination for use in the management of groundwater quality.
Moving Up the Ladder: Assessing Sanitation Progress through a Total Service Gap
Authors: Kempster Stuart , Hueso Andrés
Published: November 2018

The Sustainable Development Goals create ambitious targets for achieving universal access to safely managed sanitation by 2030. The core indicator for SDG 6.2 creates positive incentives for governments, and development partners to invest in the whole sanitation chain, recognising the public health benefits of managing waste beyond initial containment. However, the target and indicators also create risks. Global accountability could be undermined by the challenge of accounting for progress across different service levels below the target of safely managed. There could also be perverse incentives to upgrade existing services, in order to meet the benchmark of safely managed, at the expense of extending basic services to those currently unserved. This paper examines methodological options for calculating a ‘total service gap’, a measure that would combine data on each rung of the service ladder to quantify how far away each country is from universal safely managed services. It conducts a sensitivity analysis to assess the validity of using uniform service level weights, and finds that this approach could add value to existing metrics. Through alternative data visualisations and other devices, it is argued that the total service gap could help to address the risks surrounding global accountability and perverse incentives.
Trace Organic Removal during River Bank Filtration for Two Types of Sediment
Authors: Burke Victoria , Schneider Laura , Greskowiak Janek , Zerball-van Baar Patricia , Sperlich Alexander , Dünnbier Uwe , Massmann Gudrun
Published: November 2018

The process of bank filtration acts as a barrier against many anthropogenic micropollutants, such as pharmaceuticals and industrial products, leading to a substantial improvement of groundwater quality. The performance of this barrier is, however, affected by seasonal influences and subject to significant temporal changes, which have already been described in the literature. Much less is known about spatial differences when considering one field site. In order to investigate this issue, two undisturbed cores from a well-investigated bank filtration field site were sampled and operated in the course of a column study. The ultimate aim was the identification and quantification of heterogeneities with regard to the biodegradation of 14 wastewater derived micropollutants, amongst others acesulfame, gabapentin, metoprolol, oxypurinol, candesartan, and olmesartan. While six of the compounds entirely persisted, eight compounds were prone to degradation. For those compounds that were subject to degradation, degradation rate constants ranged between 0.2 day−1 (gabapentin) and 31 day−1 (valsartan acid). Further, the rate constants consistently diverged between the distinct cores. In case of the gabapentin metabolite gabapentin-lactam, observed removal rate constants differed by a factor of six between the cores. Experimental data were compared to values calculated according to two structure based prediction models.
Hydrometeorological Conditions for the Occurrence of Aeolian Processes on the Southern Baltic Coast in Poland
Authors: Hojan Marcin , Tylkowski Jacek , Rurek Mirosław
Published: November 2018

This article presents the temporal and spatial variability of hydrometeorological conditions conducive aeolian processes on the Southern Baltic coastal zone in Poland. The analysis made use of daily meteorological (wind, temperature, and rainfall) and hydrological (sea level) data from 1961 to 2010. Data for four stations (Świnoujście, Kołobrzeg, Ustka, Hel) were provided by the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management in Warsaw. A time decomposition of hydrometeorological conditions conducive to the initiation and intensification of aeolian processes in the coastal zone was also performed. In addition to their scientific significance, the temporal and spatial conditions for aeolian processes on the Baltic coast of Poland have an essential utilitarian significance. Modern aeolian processes on the Baltic coast limit the development potential of the coastal zone. Aeolian processes have a positive and negative impact on geomorphological transformation of the sea coast. They take part in the reconstruction of the beach and foredunes after storms. In periods between storms, coastal wind is seen to decrease the balance of beach sediments and lowers the beach area. On the other hand, onshore wind favors, among other things, filling of tourist infrastructure and development located at the hinterland of the beach and dunes. Hydrometeorological conditions especially favorable to the intensification of aeolian processes are the main determinants of geomorphological changes in the coastal zone (some of which can be extreme). Temporal and spatial analysis of hydrometeorological conditions conducive to aeolian processes is important for many areas of human activity, especially those concerning protection, management, and development of the coast.
Ancient Water Management and Governance in the Dry Zone of Sri Lanka Until Abandonment, and the Influence of Colonial Politics during Reclamation
Authors: Abeywardana Nuwan , Bebermeier Wiebke , Schütt Brigitta
Published: November 2018

The dry-zone water-harvesting and management system in Sri Lanka is one of the oldest historically recorded systems in the world. A substantial number of ancient sources mention the management and governance structure of this system suggesting it was initiated in the 4th century BCE (Before Common Era) and abandoned in the middle of the 13th century CE (Common Era). In the 19th century CE, it was reused under the British colonial government. This research aims to identify the ancient water management and governance structure in the dry zone of Sri Lanka through a systematic analysis of ancient sources. Furthermore, colonial politics and interventions during reclamation have been critically analyzed. Information was captured from 222 text passages containing 560 different records. 201 of these text passages were captured from lithic inscriptions and 21 text passages originate from the chronicles. The spatial and temporal distribution of the records and the qualitative information they contain reflect the evolution of the water management and governance systems in Sri Lanka. Vast multitudes of small tanks were developed and managed by the local communities. Due to the sustainable management structure set up within society, the small tank systems have remained intact for more than two millennia.
Characterization of H2S bearing fluid inclusions
Authors: Touray Jean-Claude , Guilhaumou Nicole
Published: November 2018

Rarely described until recently, fluid inclusions with H2S as a major component have been studied in various samples of quartz, fluorite and calcite.

The phase behaviour at low temperatures of H2S-bearing inclusions (sometimes containing solid S or C) and previously analyzed with the Raman microprobe, is presented. The temperatures of the phase changes are compatible with phase diagrams for the systems CO2-H2S and CH4-H2S, as well as temperature conditions for clathrates formation.

Simple thermochemical calculations indicate that in the presence of solid carbon and liquid water, only CH4 + H2S or pure H2S fluid inclusions may be stable at room temperature ; CO2 + H2S + CH4 mixtures are metastable ; the fact that they actually exist could be explained by a very low reduction rate of CO2 at 25 °C.
Reconnaissance par microspectrométrie Raman, dans les inclusions fluides, de H2S et CO2 solides à domaine de fusion comparable
Authors: Dubessy Jean , Guilhaumou Nicole , Mullis Josef , Pagel Maurice
Published: November 2018

Dans des inclusions fluides de Lastourville (Gabon), du Col d'Allos (France), de Perry County (USA) et du Val d'Illiez (Suisse) la fusion d'un solide a été observée entre —92 °C et — 103 °C. Par microspectrométrie Raman, ces solides ont été identifiés comme étant soit CO2 solide, soit H2S solide. Ces caractérisations spectroscopiques sont essentielles pour l'interprétation des mesures microthermométriques.
La kamitugaïte, PbAl(UO2)5[(P,As)O4]2(OH)9.9,5 H2O, nouveau minéral de Kobokobo, Kivu, Zaïre
Authors: Deliens Michel , Piret Paul
Published: November 2018

La kamitugaïte provient de la pegmatite à béryl et à columbite de Kobokobo, Kivu, Zaïre. Elle se présente en minces tablettes allongées (longueur maximale 0,5 mm), jaunes et transparentes, aplaties sur (010) et allongées suivant [100] avec les arêtes [001], [100] et [-101]. Système triclinique, P1 ou P-1, a = 10.98, b = 15.%, c = 9.068 Å, α = 95.1°, β = 96.1°, γ = 89.0°, V = 1,574 Å3, Z = 2. Densité calculée : 4,47. Raies principales du diagramme de poudre : 7.95 Å (10) 020, 3.972 (8) 040, 3.271 (4) 2-12, 3.175 (4) 050 and 15.92 (3) 010. Biaxe négatif, 2V = 60°, ng = 1,744, nm = 1,735 et np (calculé) = 1,709. Orientation optique : X ~ b* , Y ~ a et Z ~ ⊥ a et b* ; angle a ⋀ Y entre 1 et 2°. Non fluorescent aux UV. Analyse chimique à la microsonde électronique : UO3 71,76 ; Al2O3 2,39 ; PbO 9,86 ; P2O5 5,48 ; As2O5 2,12 ; H2O (par différence) 8,39 %. Formule : PbAl(UO2)5[(P,As)O4]2(OH)9.9,5 H2O. Associations : phosphates d'uranyle et d'aluminium, dumontite et studtite.
L'urancalcarite, Ca(UO2)3CO3(OH)6.3H2O, nouveau minéral de Shinkolobwe, Shaba, Zaïre
Authors: Deliens Michel , Piret Paul
Published: November 2018

Urancalcarite occurs as bright yellow acicular crystals forming radiating aggregates. Optically biaxial negative, 2Vcalc. = 66°, γ = 1.736, β = 1.712 and α = 1.660. Orthorhombic, space group Pbnm or Pbn21, a = 15.42(3) ; b = 16.08(4), c = 6.970(6) Å, Z = 4, Dcalc. = 4.10 Mg/m3, Dmeas. ~ 4.03 Mg/m3. Strongest lines in the X-ray powder pattern [d(Å),I,hkl] : 8.06 (10) (020), 4.02 (8) (040 and 311), 3.488 (7) (002), 3.193 (5) (022), 2.101 (5) (313 and 370), 2.829 (4) (501). Analysis with electron microprobe gave : UO3 78.68, CaO 4.36, CO2 (by chromatography) 4.93 and H2O (by thermogravimetry) 10.61 %, total 98.58 %. Formula : CaO.3UO3.CO2.6H2O. Urancalcarite occurs at Shinkolobwe uranium deposit (Southern Shaba, Zaire). Associated minerals : uraninite, uranophane,, wyartite and masuyite. The name from the composition.
Etude expérimentale de la distribution du fer ferrique entre spinelle chromifère et bain silicaté basique
Authors: Maurel Colette , Maurel Pierre
Published: November 2018

The partitioning of ferric iron between chromian spinel and basic silicate melt was studied experimentally. Runs were carried out at temperatures of 1 180-1 300 °C and oxygen fugacities of 10-3-10-9 atm, at one atmosphere total pressure. A linear relationship exists between the Fe2O3 content of chromian spinel (known by microprobe analysis) and the Fe2O3 content of the liquid (calculated from the empirical relation established by Kilinc et al., 1983). The partition coefficient, DT = (Fe2O3)sp/(Fe2O3)liq, depends on temperature, but neither on fO2 nor on the Fe total content of the melt : log DT = 4 8 13/T — 2.39. The Fe2O3 content of spinel is related to physico-chemical parameters as follows :

[formula]

It is pointed out that, at constant temperature and oxygen fugacity, (Fe2O3)sp is a linear function of the total iron content of the melt.
Les pyroxènes et leurs inclusions, marqueurs privilégiés des nuées ardentes (Saint-Vincent, Antilles, 1979)
Authors: Bardintzeff Jacques-Marie
Published: November 2018

Pyroxenes of St. Vincent Soufrière volcano andesito-basaltic nuées ardentes (1979) show clearly three stages of crystallization. 1) Cr-rich diopsides (with chromites and Fo 89 olivines) crystallize early (P > 10 kbar) from primary basaltic magma. 2) Salites characterize a second high P H2O stage (P H2O = 5 kbar) and occur in cumulate with Al-magnetites, Fo 75 olivines, Ca-plagioclases and amphiboles. 3) Augites and orthopyroxenes appear in the last stage with Na-plagioclases. Primary melt inclusions do not occur in diopsides ; their compositions are andesito-basaltic in salites and andesito-dacitic in augites. The different crystallization-stages are displayed in some products of the eruption (cumulates, blocks and ash-matrix of nuées ardentes, domes).

The proposed volcanological interpretation is that of mechanical mixing of residual dacitic magma (in small amount) produced by fractional crystallization with reinjected andesitic magma. This mixing produces sudden variations of thermodynamic conditions, triggering nuées ardentes.
Distortion of Magnetic Fields in a Starless Core. V. Near-infrared and Submillimeter Polarization in FeSt 1-457
Authors: Kandori Ryo , Nagata Tetsuya , Tazaki Ryo , Tamura Motohide , Saito Masao , Tomisaka Kohji , Matsumoto Tomoaki , Kusakabe Nobuhiko , Nakajima Yasushi , Kwon Jungmi , Nagayama Takahiro , Tatematsu Ken’ichi
Published: November 2018

The relationship between submillimeter dust emission polarization and near-infrared (NIR) H-band polarization produced by dust dichroic extinction was studied for the cold starless dense core FeSt 1–457. The distributions of polarization angles (90°-rotated for the submillimeter) and degrees were found to be very different between submillimeter and NIR wavelengths. The mean polarization angles for FeSt 1-457 at submillimeter and NIR wavelengths are 132.°1 ± 22.°0 and 2.°7 ± 16.°2, respectively. The correlation between P

H
and A

V
was found to be linear from the outermost regions to the relatively dense lines of sight of A

V
 ≈ 25 mag, indicating that NIR polarization reflects the overall polarization (magnetic field) structure of the core, at least in this density range. The flat P

H
/A

V
versus A

V
correlations were confirmed, and the polarization efficiency was found to be comparable to the observational upper limit. On the other hand, as reported by Alves et al. submillimeter polarization degrees show a clear linearly decreasing trend against A

V
from A

V
 ≈ 20 mag to the densest center (A

V
≈ 41 mag), appearing as a “polarization hole” structure. The power-law index for the P
submm versus A

V
relationship was obtained to be ≈−1, indicating that the alignment for the submillimeter-sensitive dust is lost. These very different polarization distributions at submillimeter and NIR wavelengths suggest either that (1) there are different radiation environments at these wavelengths or (2) submillimeter-sensitive dust is localized or (3) a combination of both.
What Determines the Local Metallicity of Galaxies: Global Stellar Mass, Local Stellar Mass Surface Density, or Star Formation Rate?
Authors: Gao Yulong , Wang Enci , Kong Xu , Lin Zesen , Liu Guilin , Liu Haiyang , Liu Qing , Hu Ning , Teklu Berzaf Berhane , Chen Xinkai , Zhao Qinyuan
Published: November 2018

Metallicity and its relationship with other galactic properties is a fundamental probe of the evolution of galaxies. In this work, we select about 750,000 star-forming spatial pixels from 1122 blue galaxies in the Mapping Nearby Galaxies at Apache Point Observatory survey to investigate the global stellar mass–local stellar mass surface density–gas-phase metallicity (M
*–Σ*–Z) relation. At a fixed M
*, the metallicity increases steeply with increasing Σ*. Similarly, at a fixed Σ*, the metallicity increases strongly with increasing M
* at the low-mass end, while this trend becomes less obvious at the high-mass end. We find the metallicity to be more strongly correlated to Σ* than to M
*. Furthermore, we construct a tight (0.07 dex scatter) M
*–Σ*–Z relation, which reduces the scatter in the Σ*–Z relation by about 30% for galaxies with 7.8 < log(M
*/M
⊙) < 11.0, while the reduction of scatter is much weaker for high-mass galaxies. This result suggests that, especially for low-mass galaxies, the M
*–Σ*–Z relation is largely more fundamental than the M
*–Z and Σ*–Z relations, meaning that both M
* and Σ* play important roles in shaping the local metallicity. We also find that the local metallicity is probably independent on the local star formation rate surface density at a fixed M
* and Σ*. Our results are consistent with the scenario that the local metallicities in galaxies are shaped by the combination of the local stars formed in the history and the metal loss caused by galactic winds.
Three Dimensional (3D) Echocardiography as a Tool of Left Ventricular Assessment in Children with Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Comparison to Cardiac MRI
Authors: Habeeb Nevin Mohamed , Youssef Omneya Ibrahim , Elguindy Waleed Mohamed , Ibrahim Ahmed samir , Hussein Walaa Hamed
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: Left ventricular (LV) volumes and ejection fraction (EF) is Strong prognostic indicators for DCM. Cardiac MRI (CMRI) is a preferred technique for LV volumes and EF assessment due to high spatial resolution and complete volumetric datasets. Three-dimensional echocardiography is a promising new technique under investigations.
AIM: Evaluate 3D echocardiography as a tool in LV assessment in DCM children about CMRI.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: A group of 20 DCM children (LVdiastolic diameter < 2 Z score, LVEF < 35%) at Children s Hospital, Ain-Shams University (gp1) (mean age 6.6 years) were compared to 20 age and sex-matched children as controls (gp2). Patients were subjected to: clinical examination, conventional echocardiography, automated 3D LV quantification, 3D speckle tracking echocardiography (3D-STE) (VIVID E9 Vingmed, Norway) and CMRI (Philips Achieva Nova, 1.5 Tesla scanner) for LV end systolic volume (LVESV), LVend diastolic volume (LVEDV) that were indexed to body surface area, EF% and wall motion abnormalities assessment.
RESUTS: No statistically significant difference was found between automated 3D LV quantification echocardiography, 3D-STE, and CMRI in ESV/BSA and EDV/BSA assessment (p = 1, 0.99 respectively), between automated LV quantification echocardiography and CMRI in EF% assessment (p = 0.99) and between CMRI and 3D-STE in LV Global hypokinesia detection (P = 0.255). As for segmental hypokinesia CMRI was more sensitive [45% of patients vs. 40%, (P = 0,036), basal septal hypokinesia 85% vs. 75%, (p = 0.045), mid septal hypokinesia 80% vs. 65%, (p = 0.012) and lateral wall hypokinesia 75% vs. 65%, (p = 0.028)].
CONCLUSION: Automated 3D LV quantification echocardiography and 3D-STE are reliable tools in LV volumetric and systolic function assessment about CMRIas a standard method. 3D speckle echocardiography is comparable to CMRI in global wall hypokinesia detection but less sensitive in segmental wall hypokinesia which mandates further studies.
“Two Stones on One Bird”: A Case Report on Severe Biphasic Anaphylaxis Masquerading as Life-Threatening Acute Asthma
Authors: Payus Alvin Oliver , Ibrahim Azliza , Mustafa Norlaila
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: Anaphylaxis often misdiagnosed and treated as acute asthma, especially when it has a predominant respiratory symptom, and there are no obvious precipitants or previous allergic history. This morbid outcome is preventable if the level of suspicion for anaphylaxis is high among healthcare provider when treating a patient who is not responding to the standard management of acute asthma. A proportion of anaphylactic patient shows a biphasic reaction which potentially fatal when it is under-anticipated and prematurely discharge without adequate observation period after the recovery of the initial episode.
CASE REPORT: Here, we present a case of a young man who has childhood asthma with the last attack more than 10 years ago presented with symptoms suggestive of acute exacerbation of bronchial asthma. As the symptoms failed to improve after standard asthma management, anaphylaxis was suspected, and he was given intramuscular adrenaline 0.5 mg which leads to symptom improvement. However, he developed another attack shortly after improvement while under observation.
CONCLUSION: The objective of this case report is to emphasise the importance of keeping anaphylaxis in mind whenever a patient has treatment-refractory asthma, and also the anticipation of biphasic reaction that warrants adequate observation period especially those who are likely to have developed it.
CD4 and Its Relevance to Advanced Glycation End Products in Tuberculosis Patients with Co-morbidity Diabetes
Authors: Widjaja Sry Suryani , Rusdiana - , Savira Maya
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the most common infectious diseases found in developing countries. One of the risk factors for TB is diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by hyperglycemia. The altered in glucose metabolism will cause dysfunction of phagocyte and antibacterial that furthermore impaired activation of natural killer cells, dendritic cells. These together will alter the balance of T-cell immunity. Under hyperglycemic conditions, AGEs (advanced glycation end products) was increasingly formed and was believed to play a role in cell dysfunctions and diabetic complications. The CD4 deficiency will alter the immunity status in diabetes and TB with co-morbidity diabetes.
AIM: This aim of this study was to evaluate CD4, and it’s relevant to Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) in TB with co-morbidity diabetes.
METHODS: This is a case-control study with a total of 80 patients (40 diabetes and 40 TB with co-morbidity diabetes were recruited from Murni Teguh memorial Hospital Medan after ethical approval from Health Research Ethical Committee. The CD4, AGEs, Blood glucose and HbA1C were measured.
RESULTS: There was no statistical difference of CD4, HbA1C and blood glucose within diabetes and TB with co-morbidity diabetes but BMI (p = 0.009) and AGEs (p = 0.001) did. The CD4 below 500 were seen in 15% diabetes and 25% in TB with co-morbidity diabetes but did not show statistical significance difference (p = 0.07). No correlation was found between CD4 and AGEs in TB with co-morbidity diabetes (p = 0.44).
CONCLUSION: The CD4 was not correlated significantly with AGEs.
Serum Calcium and Magnesium Levels in Normal Ghanaian Pregnant Women: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Djagbletey Robert , Darkwa Ebenezer Owusu , DeGraft-Johnson Papa Kobina Gyekye , Sottie Daniel Akwanfo Yaw , Essuman Raymond , Aryee George , Aniteye Ernest
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy is described as a normal physiologic state associated with various biochemical changes. Magnesium and calcium are essential macronutrients required for foetal growth. Complications associated with their deficiency during normal pregnancy include; low neonatal birth weight, pre-eclampsia, eclampsia and preterm labour. Changes in serum levels of magnesium and calcium in normal pregnancy have not been extensively studied among Ghanaian women.
AIM: To determine the variation in serum magnesium and calcium levels with gestational age in normal pregnancy in Ghanaian women.
METHODS: A hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 32 normal non-pregnant women (Group A) and 100 normal pregnant women (Group B) attending the clinic at the Korle-Bu Teaching hospital. The group B pregnant women were further divided into Group B1 (n = 33), Group B2 (n = 37) and Group B3 (n = 30) based on their pregnancy gestation as first, second and third trimester respectively. Blood samples were obtained from the antecubital vein of subjects and total serum calcium, magnesium, protein and albumin were estimated. Data obtained were analysed using SPSS for windows version 20. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to determine the statistical differences between the groups. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.
RESULTS: Mean serum total calcium and magnesium in first, second and third trimester normal pregnant women were 2.14 ± 0.16, 2.13 ± 0.44, 2.13 ± 0.35 mmol/L and 0.77 ± 0.11, 0.77 ± 0.16 and 0.76 ± 0.14 mmol/L respectively. Mean serum total calcium and magnesium levels in non-pregnant women were 2.20 ± 0.16 and 0.80 ± 0.10 mmol/L respectively. There was a statistically non-significant difference in serum total calcium and magnesium between non-pregnant and normal pregnant women, with p-values of 0.779 and 0.566 respectively. Mean total serum protein and albumin in first, second and third-trimester normal pregnant women were 68.42 ± 10.37, 70.46 ± 6.84, 66.70 ± 7.83 g/L and 39.92 ± 3.22, 40.75 ± 8.06, 38.26 ± 3.02 g/L respectively. Mean total serum protein and albumin in non-pregnant women were 73.13 ± 7.02 and 42.94 ± 3.03 g/L respectively. Mean total serum protein and albumin levels were lower in pregnant women as compared to non-pregnant women with the difference being significant in the third trimester (p-values of 0.012 and 0.002).
CONCLUSION: Total serum calcium and magnesium levels in normal pregnancy were non-significantly lower compared to non-pregnant women in Ghana. There was a reduction in total serum protein, and albumin levels during pregnancy with a significant reduction noticed during the third trimester compared to the non-pregnant state.
Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression and Its Correlation with Primary Tumor Size and Lymph Node Involvement in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Chrestella Jessy , Farhat Farhat , Daulay Elvita Rahmi , Asnir Rizalina Arwinati , Yudhistira Ashri , Nasution Indah Afriani
Published: November 2018

AIM: This study aimed to observe the cyclooxygenase-2 expression and its correlation with tumour size and lymph node involvement in nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
METHODS: This study was cross-sectional, that enrolled 126 samples diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Haji Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia which fulfilled the inclusion criteria.
RESULTS: Based on this study, we found that the age peak incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients about a 41-60-year-old group (57.1%), dominated by men (71.4%). Through histopathological examination, non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma is the most predominant type (79.4%). We also found T3 is the most prevalent primary tumour size (32.5%) with prominent lymph node involvement N3 (45.2%), and stage IV (54.8%). Cyclooxygenase-2 overexpression is prevalent among nonkeratinizing squamous cell carcinoma (81.1%), T3 primary tumour size (41.1%), N3 node involvement (60.0%), and IV clinical stage (71.6%). In addition, we found a significant relationship between cyclooxygenase-2 expressions towards tumor size (p < 0.001) and lymph node involvement (p < 0.001) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
CONCLUSION: It is proved that the overexpression of cyclooxygenase-2 will increase the susceptibility of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients having advanced primary tumour size and lymph node involvement.
MicroRNA-150 down Regulation in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia Patients and Its Prognostic Implication
Authors: Abdelhalim Dalia Adel , Elgamal Basma M. , ElKafoury Mona R. , Hassan Naglaa M. , Hussein Marwa M. , Elhefnawi Mahmoud M. , Elfiky Asmaa M. , Hamdy Mohammad N.
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that are important for post-transcriptional gene regulation in both healthy and morbid conditions. Numerous miRNAs promote tumorigenesis, while others have a tumour suppressive effects. Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a heterogeneous group of genetically diverse hematopoietic malignancies with variable response to treatment.
AIM: Our study aimed to investigate the possible role of miR-150 in de novo adult AML and the impact of its level on survival, and we used in the silicon analysis to predict the main target genes involved in miR-150 mediated cancer pathway.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: We evaluated miR-150 expression profiling assay using TaqMan primer probes RT-PCR in the plasma of 50 adult AML patients, before the start of treatment and at day 28 of treatment, along with 20 normal adult control samples. miR-16 was used as an endogenous reference for standardisation. Follow-up of patients during treatment at day 28 of induction chemotherapy and after one year was done.
RESULTS: In this study, we found a significantly lower level of miR-150 in AML patients when compared to controls (p = 0.005) with 0.62 fold change than in healthy controls. Patients were divided into two groups: the low miR-150 group (miR-150 < 1) and the high miR-150 group (miR-150 > 1). A statistically significant difference was found between the two groups regarding initial total leukocytic count and initial PB blast count while for the TLC, HB and PLT count at follow up. No difference in the overall survival between the low and the high miR-150 groups could be demonstrated.
CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that miR-150 functions as a tumour suppressor and gatekeeper in inhibiting cell transformation and that its downregulation is required for leukemogenesis.
Outcomes of Operative Management of 96 Cases with Traumatic Retroperitoneal Hematoma: A Single-Institution Experience
Authors: Kamber Harth Mohamed , Al-Marzooq Tawfiq Jasim Mohammed , Neamah Haider Raheem , Hassan Qays Ahmed
Published: November 2018

AIM: To analyse our experiences in the management of traumatic retroperitoneal hematoma (RPH), highlighting the various challenges faced and to report on the outcome of these patients.
METHODS: From May 2014 to May 2017, all patients with traumatic RPH who underwent surgical treatment were retrospectively analysed. The kind of injury, intraoperative findings, sites of hematoma, postoperative morbidity and the overall outcomes were recorded.
RESULTS: Ninety-six patients; 53 with blunt trauma and 43 with penetrating injury, were included in this study. The centre-medial hematoma was observed in 24 (25%) patients, lateral hematoma in 46 (47.9%) patients, pelvic hematoma in 19 (19.8%) patients, and multiple zone hematomas in 7 (7.3%) patients. All cases were managed surgically. Exploration of the retroperitoneal space was done in 72 cases. Thirty-three patients died, and the overall death rate was 34.4%.
CONCLUSION: Surgical exploration should be done in RPH caused by penetrating injury, but the need for urgent exploration in blunt injury is not so high, and it depends on the anatomical site of hematoma, concomitant organ injury and the hemodynamic status of patients.
Incidental Finding Of Hyperreactio Luteinalis during Caesarean Section in Twin Pregnancy
Authors: Omazic Ante , Sabolovic-Rudman Senka , Djakovic Ivka , Soljacic-Vranes Hrvojka , Kosec Vesna
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: Some benign changes of the ovaries like hyper reaction luteinalis sometimes cannot be differentiated from malignant ones without histological examination. In these cases, surgical intervention sometimes cannot be avoided. Hyperreactio luteinalis is a condition that can occur only in pregnancy. It is characterised by bilateral benign multicystic ovarian enlargement.
CASE REPORT: We present a case of misleading intraoperative findings during Cesarean section that ended with ovariectomy.
CONCLUSION: During the Caesarean section, some benign masses of the ovaries, like hyper reaction luteinalis, are difficult to differentiate from malignant disease without histological examination, requiring surgical intervention.
Comparison of IFN-γ Levels in Children with Tuberculosis Disease (TB) and Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI)
Authors: Boskovska Katerina , Naceva-Fustic Stojka , Simonovska Liljana , Dilberovska Mirjana , Dacevski Dragan , Popova Gorica , Arnaudova Ivana , Cakalarovska Irena
Published: November 2018

AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the importance of IFN-γ in the diagnosis of pediatric TB and LTBI and to compare the IFN-γ levels.
METHODS: We analysed 100 patients examined for possible M. tuberculosis infection or disease at the Institute of Respiratory Diseases in Children, Kozle, Skopje. Patients were divided into 2 groups: TB disease and LTBI. The following parameters were analyzed: demographic characteristics, history of previous exposure to active TB, BCG vaccination and presence of BCG scar, lung X-ray findings, tuberculin skin test by the Monteux method and the value of INF -γ according to the Quantiferon TB gold test, direct samples of acid-alcohol-resistant bacilli of sputum and Löwenstein Jensen cultures. Informed parental consent was obtained for each child included in the study.
RESULTS: In the LTBI group 60.9% had a scar from the vaccination while in the TB group 50% had BCG scar. TST induration diameters in children with or without BCG scar were significantly larger in patients with active TB. Children with active TB had significantly higher IFN-γ levels than children with LTBI. The IFN-γ for the cut-off of 0.35 IU/ml, has 64% sensitivity for detection of LTBI, versus 80.6% sensitivity for active disease. Children with close TB contact had significantly higher IFN-γ levels. Correlation between TST induration diameter and IFN-γ levels was stronger in the TB group.
CONCLUSION: IFN-γ levels are significantly higher in children with active TB, and children with close contact with TB patient. It has better sensitivity in active TB. Using both tests (IFN-γ and TST) can improve the diagnose of LTBI and TB in countries where vaccination with BCG is widespread.
Tumescent Local Infiltration Anesthesia for Mini Abdominoplasty with Liposuction
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed Abdalla , Safan Tamer Fayez , Hamed Hamed Fathy , Elgendy Maged Abdelwahab Abdelaziz
Published: November 2018

AIM: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of mini abdominoplasty with liposuction under local tumescent anaesthesia (LA) as the sole anaesthetic modality.
METHODS: The study included 60 female patients with a mean age of 33.3 ± 5.6 years. Local infiltration using a mixture of 1:1000 epinephrine (1 ml), 2% lidocaine (100 ml) and 0.5% Levobupivacaine (50 ml) in 2500 ml saline was started with Local infiltration started with the abdomen, outer thigh, hips, back, inner thighs and knees. After Mini Abdominoplasty with supplemental liposuction was conducted and application of suction drains wound closure was performed, and the tight bandage was applied. Pain during injection, incision and surgical manipulations was determined. Duration of postoperative analgesia, till oral intake and return home, patients and surgeon satisfaction scores were determined.
RESULTS: All surgeries were conducted completely without conversion to general anaesthesia. Injection pain was mild in 46 patients, moderate in 10 and hardly tolerated in 4 patients. Incision pain was mild in 16 patients, while 44 patients reported no sensation. During the surgical procedure, 6 patients required an additional dose of LA. Meantime till resumption of oral intake was 1.6 ± 0.9 hours. Meantime till home return was 5.6 ± 2.4 hours. Twelve patients were highly satisfied, 18 patients were satisfied, and these 42 patients were willing to repeat the trial if required. Eight patients found the trial is good and only one patient refused to repeat the trial and was dissatisfied, for a mean total satisfaction score of 3.1 ± 0.9.
CONCLUSION: Mini Abdominoplasty with liposuction could be conducted safely under tumescent LA with mostly pain-free intraoperative and PO courses and allowed such surgical procedure to be managed as an office procedure. The applied anaesthetic procedure provided patients’ satisfaction with varying degrees in about 97% of studied patients.
Acupuncture Treatment after Shoulder Arthroscopy after Recurrent Dislocations
Authors: Zhu Jihe , Arsovska Blagica , Kozovska Kristina
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: The shoulder has the greatest range of motion of the entire joint in the body. Therefore it accounts for almost 50% of all joint dislocations. Most commonly, the dislocation is anterior and may occur because of trauma. Symptoms are intense pain, inability to move, numbness of the arm, weakness, swelling and visibly out of place shoulder. This condition requires emergency medical assistance to relocate the shoulder and do X = ray and MRI scans.
CASE REPORT: The treated patient is a 20-year-old girl who has undergone shoulder arthroscopy after recurrent dislocations. 2 years after the surgery, another trauma happened, and the shoulder was dislocated again along with a broken piece of the bone. The patient decided instead of open surgery to do acupuncture treatment. 10 treatments were done, 3 with fire needle and 7 with normal needle acupuncture in 5 months. The patient was also taking Glucosamine and Calcitriol and was advised to rest the arm, not to bore it, not to lift weight and not to make sudden movements. Less than a year, the results are amazing, there’s no pain in the shoulder, the movement is unlimited and eased. The MRI image is with normal findings with a little piece of 3 mm still to heal on the broken part.
CONCLUSION: For such a serious condition as shoulder dislocation, acupuncture gave amazing and very satisfying results, with no need of open surgery.
Accompagner les parents d’accueil québécois : comment aménager un espace pour les parents dans un système de protection des enfants ?
Authors: Boyer Ariane , Noël Raphaële
Published: November 2018

Les auteurs de cet article s’intéressent aux enjeux de la mise en place d’un accompagnement pour soutenir les parents d’accueil québécois. Des entretiens semi-directifs ont été réalisés auprès de 10 parents de familles d’accueil régulières (5 hommes et 5 femmes). Les principaux thèmes, qui émergent de l’analyse qualitative inductive, mettent à jour différentes difficultés, auxquels ces parents sont confrontés, des éléments qui ont facilité l’exercice de leur rôle, ainsi qu’un discours positif sur leur expérience de l’espace de parole permis par le contrat de recherche. Ces résultats soulèvent des questions quant à la possibilité du système de protection de l’enfance d’assurer une fonction de soutien pour ces parents. La recherche souligne le double mandat soutien-évaluation des représentants de l’institution, et conduit à s’interroger sur la prise en considération de l’expérience du parent d’accueil dans un système qui représente la protection des enfants. Les paramètres d’un accompagnement spécifique à la parentalité d’accueil sont discutés.