bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Damage Characterisation of Nanointerleaved Woven CFRP Under Fatigue Loading
Authors: Fotouhi Sakineh , Fotouhi Mohamad , Saeedifar Milad , Saghafi Hamed , Minak Giangiacomo , Fragassa Cristiano
Published: September 2018

The use of high strength to weight ratio laminated composites is emerging in marine industry and applications as a very efficient solution for improving productivity. Nevertheless, delamination between the layers is a limiting factor for the wider application of laminated composites, as it reduces the stiffness and strengths of the structure. Interleaving nanofibrous mats between layers of composite laminates has been proved to be an effective method for improving composites delamination resistance. This paper aims to characterize the effect of interleaved nanofiber on mode I interlaminar properties and failure mechanisms when subjected to static and fatigue loadings. For this purpose, virgin and nanomodified woven laminates were subjected to Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) specimens. Static and fatigue tests were performed and the tests were monitored by acoustic emission technique. The mechanical results showed a 130% increase of delamination toughness for nanomodified specimens in the static loadings and more crack growth resistance in the fatigue loading. The AE results revealed that different type of failure mechanisms was the cause of these improvements for the modified specimens compared with the virgin ones.
The Protecting Role of Dormant Origins in Response to Replicative Stress
Authors: Courtot Lilas , Hoffmann Jean-Sébastien , Bergoglio Valérie
Published: September 2018

Maintenance of the human chromosomes stability requires a tight regulation of DNA replication to duplicate once and only once the entire genome of a single cell. In mammalians cells, origin activation is controlled in space and time by a cell specific and robust program called replication timing. About 100 000 of potential origins are loaded onto the chromatin at the G1 phase but only 20-30% are selected and active during the replication of a given cell. When the replication fork is slowed down by exogenous or endogenous sources, the cell need to activate more origins to complete the replication on time. Thus, the large choice of origins that can be activated may be a key player in the protection of the genome. The aim of this review is to discuss about the role of these dormant origins as housekeepers of the human genome in response to replicative stress.
From Black Holes to Neutrino Stars
Authors: Tsekov Roumen
Published: September 2018

Due to limitation of the binding energy of a self-gravitating matter, the radius of a body is at least twice larger than the Schwarzschild radius. The total energy is adsorbed at the body surface, giving rise of a size-dependent surface tension. Since the Hawking temperature appears to be the critical one, the black holes possess zero surface tension. Microscopic neutrino stars are also introduced.
Topological Assessment of Entangled Particles on Black Hole Horizons
Authors: Tozzi Arturo , Peters James F.
Published: September 2018

The entangled antipodal points on black hole surfaces, recently described by t’Hooft, display an unnoticed relationship with the Borsuk-Ulam theorem.  Taking into account this observation and other recent claims, suggesting that quantum entanglement takes place on the antipodal points of a S3 hypersphere, a novel framework can be developed, based on algebraic topological issues: a feature encompassed in an S2 unentangled state gives rise, when projected one dimension higher, to two entangled particles.  This allows us to achieve a mathematical description of the holographic principle occurring in S2.  Furthermore, our observations let us to hypothesize that a) quantum entanglement might occur in a four-dimensional spacetime, while disentanglement might be achieved on a motionless, three-dimensional manifold; b) a negative mass might exist on the surface of a black hole.
Turkish Foreign Policy in a Changing World Order
Authors: OĞUZLU H. Tarık
Published: September 2018

This article argues that there is a close relationship
between the structure of the international system/order and how states define
their foreign policy interests and then
act accordingly. The main contention is that Turkey’s foreign policy
performance since 2002 can be partially read as Turkey’s effort to adapt to
external developments at international and regional levels. As the
international system has evolved from a unipolar order (in which the United
States, in cooperation with its European allies, provided the main public goods
in an hegemonic fashion), into a post-unipolar era, Turkey has accelerated its efforts
to pursue a more multi-dimensional and multi-directional foreign approach. Rather
than arguing that there is a direct causation between the independent variable
of systemic factors and the dependent variable of Turkey’s foreign policy
performance, this article understands the external environment as a ‘context’
in which Turkish decision makers have responded to Turkey’s responses to
foreign policy issues.
Unfavorable Outcomes Following Surgical Treatment of Hallux Valgus Deformity
Authors: Barg Alexej , Harmer Joshua R. , Presson Angela P. , Zhang Chong , Lackey Mellanye , Saltzman Charles L.
Published: September 2018

Background:

Surgical correction of deformity plays a central role in the treatment of hallux valgus deformity. However, complications or unintended outcomes are frequently noted in clinical series. There has been no rigorous systematic review of studies reporting outcomes of surgical treatment for hallux valgus deformity, to the best of our knowledge.

Methods:

We performed a systematic review of studies reporting the outcomes of surgical correction for hallux valgus deformity.

Results:

A total of 229 studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled rates of postoperative patient dissatisfaction and postoperative first metatarsophalangeal pain were 10.6% and 1.5%, respectively. The overall rate of recurrent deformity was 4.9%.

Conclusions:

Hallux valgus surgery has been reported to have fairly consistent results and rates of complications or unfavorable outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Assessment of Ankle Mortise Instability After Isolated Supination-External Rotation Lateral Malleolar Fractures
Authors: Jeong Bi O. , Kim Tae Yong , Baek Jong Hun , Song Seung Hyun , Park Ji Seon
Published: September 2018

Background:

The diagnosis of clinically important instability following isolated supination-external rotation (SER) distal fibular fractures is a challenge. The purpose of this study was to investigate the accuracy of clinical findings including medial tenderness, swelling, and ecchymosis, combined with the gravity stress test and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in the assessment of ankle mortise stability in association with isolated SER-type lateral malleolar fractures. The external rotation (ER) stress test was used as the reference with which the methods of assessment were compared.

Methods:

Thirty-seven patients were enrolled prospectively. Using the ER stress test as a reference, we evaluated the sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratio (LR), and post-test probability of instability when using clinical examination, the gravity stress test, and MRI for diagnosing ankle mortise instability after an isolated SER lateral malleolar fracture.

Results:

The positive LR for clinical findings ranged from 1.45 to 2.54, and the negative LR ranged from 0.25 to 0.70, shifting the pre-test probability to a rarely important degree. In contrast, the positive LR for the gravity stress test was 5.71 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.52 to 21.48, a moderate shift from the pre-test probability, and the negative LR was 0.33 (95% CI = 0.16 to 0.66), indicating a small shift. In cases with a deep deltoid ligament disruption identified on MRI, the positive LR was 3.05 (95% CI = 1.03 to 9.02) and the negative LR was 0.53 (95% CI = 0.31 to 0.91), demonstrating a small but sometimes important shift.

Conclusions:

The gravity stress test is a reliable method for diagnosing ankle mortise instability in patients with an isolated SER lateral malleolar fracture. Nevertheless, this test alone would not qualify as a replacement for the ER stress test. However, when the gravity stress test result is consistent with the clinical or MRI findings, its diagnostic value is almost equivalent to that of the ER stress test.

Level of Evidence:

Diagnostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Progressive Autonomy in the Era of Increased Supervision
Authors: Dougherty Paul J. , Cannada Lisa K. , Murray Peter , Osborn Patrick M.
Published: September 2018

The observation of decreased resident autonomy, ultimately influencing the readiness of a new graduate to practice, has been supported with a number of recent surveys. This perceived lack of autonomy is felt to be due, in part, to many reasons, including duty-hour regulations, increased supervision requirements, patient safety measures, concern for complication rates, and other performance measures. Pressure on faculty members to have increased clinical productivity may not allow for more resident autonomy.

Increased clinical exposure to improve resident independence may come from several suggested areas. First, restructuring the residency program to allow for more clinical time may be one way to improve education. Second, increased use of surgical simulation will allow for more experience to develop technical skills within a controlled environment. Surgical simulators can be used to acquire new skills and also as a means of assessing competence. Third, competency-based education (CBE) has been offered as a way to improve resident education. At its core, CBE offers criterion-based assessments for residents and faculty that allow for more frequent feedback.
Botulinum Toxin Type A Versus Placebo for Idiopathic Clubfoot
Authors: Alvarez Christine M. , Wright James G. , Chhina Harpreet , Howren Alyssa , Law Peggy
Published: September 2018

Background:

Congenital idiopathic clubfoot is a condition that affects, on average, approximately 1 in 1,000 infants. One broadly adopted method of management, described by Ponseti, is the performance of a percutaneous complete tenotomy when hindfoot stall occurs. The use of onabotulinum toxin A (BTX-A) along with the manipulation and cast protocol described by Ponseti has been previously reported. Our goal was to compare the clinical outcomes between BTX-A and placebo injections into the gastrocnemius-soleus muscle at the time of hindfoot stall in infants with idiopathic clubfoot treated with the Ponseti method of manipulation and cast changes.

Methods:

This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study with balanced randomization.

Results:

At 6 weeks after the study injection (T1), 66% of the 32 feet in the BTX-A arm and 63% of the 30 in the placebo arm responded to the treatment (i.e., obtained ≥15° of dorsiflexion). Seven of the 11 patients in the BTX-A arm and all of the 11 in the placebo arm who had not responded at T1 responded to a rescue BTX-A injection at 12 weeks after the first injection (T2). The combined response rate at T2, which included the first-time responders as well as the patients who did not respond at T1 but did at T2, was 88% in the BTX-A arm and 100% in the placebo arm, culminating in a 94% response rate at T2. At T3 (2 years of age), 89% of the feet continued to respond and there was an 8% surgical rate.

Conclusions:

There was no difference in outcomes between the BTX-A and placebo groups when the injection was performed at the time of hindfoot stall. Overall, 92% of the clubfeet in this study responded to a manipulation and cast protocol alone, with or without BTX-A injection, by 12 weeks after hindfoot stall, or we can say that 92% of the clubfeet did not require percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening by 2 years of age. The need for tenotomy is limited to those who have not responded to treatment at this point, and the need for surgery is limited to those for whom all attempts at treatment with sequential casts, BTX-A, and percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening have failed.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Local Versus Systemic Antibiotics for Surgical Infection Prophylaxis in a Rat Model
Authors: Sweet Fred A. , Forsthoefel Craig W. , Sweet Andrea R. , Dahlberg Ryan K.
Published: September 2018

Background:

The purpose of this study was to compare the local application of a variety of antimicrobial agents with intravenous (IV) antibiotics for infection prophylaxis in a rat model.

Methods:

A total of 120 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were implanted with an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) vascular graft in a submuscular position and challenged with 2 × 107 colony-forming units of methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Twenty rats received pretreatment with IV cefazolin and 20 rats were pretreated with IV vancomycin. The remaining 80 rats had application of local antimicrobials in the wound at the conclusion of the procedure: 20 rats received vancomycin powder; 20 rats, cefazolin powder; and 20 rats, tobramycin powder; 20 rats underwent dilute 0.35% Betadine (povidone-iodine) lavage for 3 minutes. One week after surgery, the grafts were retrieved and cultured.

Results:

Twenty (100%) of 20 rats in each of the IV cefazolin, IV vancomycin, and dilute Betadine lavage groups had grossly positive cultures for MSSA (95% confidence interval [CI], 84% to 100%). Eighteen (90%) of 20 rats in the cefazolin local powder group demonstrated positive cultures for MSSA (95% CI, 77% to 100%). Four (20%) of 20 rats in the tobramycin local powder and vancomycin local powder groups demonstrated positive cultures for MSSA (95% CI, 3% to 38%). The infection rates for the local application of vancomycin and tobramycin powder were significantly lower compared with Betadine lavage, IV vancomycin, IV cefazolin, and local cefazolin powder (p < 0.000001).

Conclusions:

Local antimicrobial prophylaxis with vancomycin and tobramycin powder for infections in the rat model was statistically superior to systemic prophylaxis with IV antibiotics, local cefazolin powder, and Betadine lavage.

Clinical Relevance:

This study supports the findings of prior clinical reports that intrawound vancomycin powder reduces the risk of surgical site infection. Local application of tobramycin powder was equivalent to vancomycin powder in this model. Additionally, the superiority of local antibiotic surgical prophylaxis suggests that clinical studies should be considered to determine the relative efficacy of local versus systemic antibiotics for surgical infection prophylaxis in humans.
Cost-effectiveness and budgetary impact of lipegfilgrastim for the reduction of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia in Brazil
Authors: Szende Agota , Urwongse Jennifer , Szabo Erika , Klastersky Jean , Mueller Udo , Stefani Stephen , Tang Boxiong
Published: September 2018

Background: Granulocyte-colony stimulating factors (G-CSFs) reduce the risk of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. Lipegfilgrastim is a long-acting, once-per-cycle G-CSF, while Brazil’s standard of care is short-acting filgrastim. A cost-effectiveness and budget impact analysis of lipegfilgrastim was conducted with filgrastim and once-per-cycle pegfilgrastim for adults at risk of neutropenia in Brazil. Methods: The decision model used national and clinical data to evaluate the costs and outcomes of each treatment. Costs included drug and medical expenses, outpatient and inpatient neutropenia treatments, and adverse events. Health outcomes included incidence of neutropenia-related events. For the budget impact analysis, health outcomes and costs for the pre/post-lipegfilgrastim scenarios were combined to identify expenditure with lipegfilgrastim’s introduction. Results: Total cost per patient during a course of four chemotherapy cycles was estimated at R$12,920 for lipegfilgrastim, R$15,168 for filgrastim, and R$13,232 for pegfilgrastim. Based on better outcomes and lower total costs with lipegfilgrastim compared with filgrastim as well as pegfilgrastim, lipegfilgrastim was the dominant treatment strategy over both filgrastim and pegfilgrastim during the duration of chemotherapy treatment. Over 5 years, the uptake of lipegfilgrastim led to savings of R$61,532,403 in overall medical costs. Neutropenic events decreased by 17,141 and deaths linked to febrile neutropenia decreased by 239. Conclusion: Due to better outcomes and lower overall cost, lipegfilgrastim was a cost-saving strategy compared with filgrastim and pegfilgrastim in the Brazilian healthcare system. Furthermore, the budget impact analysis estimated a reduction in overall medical costs and improved health outcomes over 5 years following the introduction of lipegfilgrastim.
O modelo de remuneração definindo a forma de cuidar: por que premiar a ineficiência no cuidado ao idoso?
Authors: Oliveira Martha Regina , Veras Renato , Cordeiro Hésio
Published: September 2018

O modelo hegemônico de remuneração dos serviços de saúde em muitos países, tanto em sistemas públicos quanto naqueles orientados ao mercado de planos privados de saúde, ainda é o de fee-for-service. Este se caracteriza, essencialmente, pelo estímulo à competição por usuários e remuneração por quantidade de serviços produzidos (volume). Não basta mudar o modelo de remuneração sem alterar o modelo assistencial e vice-versa, pois os dois são interdependentes. O importante na escolha de um modelo diferenciado de remuneração é que seja adequado ao tipo de assistência executado e ao objetivo que se deseja atingir. Ao longo de anos de aplicação de determinado modelo assistencial associado a um modelo de remuneração, todo um sistema de saúde fica moldado e programado para um fim. Essa é a principal discussão a ser feita atualmente. Alguns dos problemas do sistema de saúde brasileiro, em especial o suplementar, e que afetam primordialmente o idoso são consequência do modelo adotado há décadas. Para dar conta dessa nova e urgente demanda da sociedade, modelos alternativos de remuneração devem ser implementados para romper o círculo vicioso de sucessão de consultas fragmentadas e descontextualizadas da realidade social e de saúde da pessoa idosa, além da produção de procedimentos desconectados do desfecho esperado.
Właściwości antyoksydacyjne papryki ostrej odmiany Hungarian yellow
Authors: Florkowska Katarzyna , Duchnik Wiktoria , Nowak Anna , Klimowicz Adam
Published: September 2018

ABSTRAKTWstęp: Antyoksydanty zawarte w niektórych owocach i warzywach chronią organizm przed stresem oksydacyjnym, który odgrywa główną rolę w patogenezie starzenia oraz chorób układu sercowo-naczyniowego, nowotworowych i neurodegeneracyjnych. Papryka jest ważnym warzywem, wykorzystywanym przede wszystkim jako potrawa, ale także jako przyprawa. Świeże owoce są cennym źródłem witaminy C i A, makro- i mikroelementów, karotenoidów oraz polifenoli.Celem pracy była ocena aktywności antyoksydacyjnej oraz zawartości barwników asymilacyjnych alkoholowych i wodnych wyciągów z owoców papryki ostrej.Materiały i metody: Materiał roślinny stanowiły świeże okrywy nasienne papryki ostrej odmiany Hungarian yellow wraz z nasionami. Wyciągi sporządzono metodą ekstrakcji wspomaganej ultradźwiękami przez okres 15, 30 i 60 min, przy czym rozpuszczalnikami były alkohole metylowy, etylowy i izopropylowy oraz woda. Aktywność antyoksydacyjną mierzono metodą z użyciem odczynnika 2,2-difenylo-1-pikrylohydrazylu (DPPH) oraz metodą oznaczania zdolności redukowania jonów żelaza (FRAP), zaś zawartość barwników asymilacyjnych metodą Arnona.Wyniki: Świeże owoce papryki charakteryzowały się zawartością barwników asymilacyjnych, takich jak chlorofil a, b oraz karotenoidy, przy czym stwierdzono nieco większą ilość karotenoidów w porównaniu z chlorofilem całkowitym (a+b). Wyciągi z materiału roślinnego miały aktywność antyoksydacyjną. Najwyższe wartości, mierzone metodą DPPH, stwierdzono dla prób ekstrahowanych stężonym metanolem przez 60 min. W przypadku metody FRAP najwyższym potencjałem antyoksydacyjnym charakteryzowały się wszystkie ekstrakty sporządzone w alkoholu izopropylowym.Wnioski: Ekstrakty ze świeżych owoców papryki wykazują aktywność antyoksydacyjną oraz zawierają barwniki asymilacyjne, dlatego mogą być użyteczne jako surowce antyoksydacyjne w preparatach kosmetycznych i farmaceutycznych.
Współczesne kierunki rehabilitacji w zespołach bólowych kręgosłupa lędźwiowo-krzyżowego – przegląd systematyczny
Authors: Łubkowska Wioletta , Mroczek Bożena
Published: September 2018

ABSTRAKT Wstęp: Zespoły bólowe kręgosłupa lędźwiowo-krzyżowego ze względu na powszechność zjawiska oraz coraz młodszy wiek pacjentów uznaje się za schorzenie cywilizacyjne. Celem artykułu była krytyczna analiza dostępnych wytycznych, raportów i dowodów dostarczających argumentów dotyczących postępowania diagnostyczno-terapeutycznego w bólach krzyża. W pracy przedstawiono epidemiologię, etiologię, diagnozę oraz wybrane metody leczenia i profilaktyki bólu krzyża. Materiały i metody: Dokonano przeglądu danych literaturowych w oparciu o bazę komputerową Polska Bibliografia Lekarska oraz anglojęzyczną bazę danych PubMed i Cochrane Library. Dodatkowo wykorzystano wyszukiwarkę Google Scholar. Prezentowane prace przeanalizowano pod względem ich referencyjności naukowej i zgodności z zasadami Evidence-Based Medicine. W celu uzyskania rekomendacji na najwyższym poziomie w przeglądzie zostały uwzględnione aktualne dowody naukowe oparte na recenzowanych publikacjach naukowych, przeglądach systematycznych, metaanalizach i przeprowadzonych randomizowanych badaniach kontrolnych. Wyniki: Według licznych badań leżenie w łóżku jest nieskuteczne i nie powinno być zalecane. Literatura w odniesieniu do wpływu akupunktury, TENS, terapii zimnem i trakcji (wyciąg) na leczenie bólu krzyża jest zbyt niejednorodna i potrzebne są dalsze wysokiej jakości badania, zanim jakikolwiek końcowy wniosek zostanie postawiony. Mocno rekomendowane w leczeniu objawów bólu krzyża są: ćwiczenia fizyczne, terapia manualna oraz edukacja. Wnioski: Konieczne są dalsze badania w celu zidentyfikowania skutecznych niefarmakologicznych metod leczenia bólu krzyża oraz zrozumienia dodatkowych korzyści wynikających z łączenia poszczególnych interwencji, a także tego, które kombinacje leczenia i sekwencje są najbardziej skuteczne.
Relacja pacjent–personel medyczny w interpretacjach użytkowników forum internetowego Moja Cukrzyca
Authors: Nowakowska Halina , Lewartowska-Zychowicz Małgorzata
Published: September 2018

ABSTRAKT Cukrzyca, uznawana obecnie za epidemię naszych czasów, stanowi poważny problem zdrowotny i ekonomiczny na całym świecie. Według danych opracowanych przez Międzynarodową Federację Diabetologiczną (International Diabetes Federation) do 2040 r. liczba chorych na cukrzycę na świecie wzrośnie nawet do 642 mln. Najistotniejszym elementem procesu leczenia każdego schorzenia jest dobra współpraca chorego z zespołem terapeutycznym, a także przestrzeganie zaleceń formułowanych przez lekarza, pielęgniarkę, dietetyka oraz innych członków zespołu interdyscyplinarnego, sprawującego opiekę nad pacjentem. Niniejszy artykuł porusza problematykę relacji zachodzących między członkami zespołu terapeutycznego, badaną z perspektywy interpretacji konstruowanych przez użytkowników forum internetowego dla diabetyków Moja Cukrzyca. W badaniu została wykorzystana metoda „czystej” netnografii. Analizowane w artykule dane pochodzą z pierwszego etapu procesu badawczego, który polegał na analizie wpisów na forum, bez nawiązywania kontaktu z jego użytkownikami. W kontekście cytowanych wypowiedzi okazuje się, że zespół terapeutyczny nie stanowi dla forumowiczów źródła wsparcia emocjonalnego. Funkcję te przejmują inni chorzy, dostarczający forumowiczom owego wsparcia, swoistego komfortu i poczucia bezpieczeństwa, dzięki któremu jest im łatwiej radzić sobie z życiem z cukrzycą.
Self-assembly of Functional Nanostructures by Short Helical Peptide Building Blocks
Authors: Bera Santu , Gazit Ehud
Published: September 2018

The self-assembly of short peptide building blocks into well-ordered nanostructures is a
key direction in bionanotechnology. The formation of β -sheet organizations by short peptides is
well explored, leading to the development of a wide range of functional assemblies. Likewise,
many natural proteinaceous materials, such as silk and amyloid fibrils, are based on β-sheet structures.
In contrast, collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, is based on helical arrangement.
Similar to β-sheet structures, short helical peptides have been recently discovered to possess a diverse
set of functionalities with the potential to fabricate artificial self-assembling materials. Here,
we outline the functional roles of self-assembled nanostructures formed by short helical peptides
and their potential as artificial materials. We focus on the association between self-assembled
mesoscale structures and their material function and demonstrate the way by which this class of
building blocks bears the potential for diverse applications, such as the future fabrication of smart
devices.
Pure Polyphenols Applications for Cardiac Health and Disease
Authors: Santos Claudia N. , Gomes Andreia , Oudot Carole , Dias-Pedroso Daniela , Rodriguez-Mateos Ana , Vieira Helena L.A. , Brenner Catherine
Published: September 2018

Polyphenols are natural compounds present in fruits and vegetables that can exert beneficial effects on
human health and notably, on the cardiovascular system. Some of these compounds showed significant protective
activities toward atherosclerosis, hypertension, myocardial infarction, anthracyclin-induced cardiomyopathy,
angiogenesis as well as heart failure. Polyphenols can act through systemic effects as well as through modulation
of signaling pathways such as redox signaling, inflammation, autophagy and cell death in the heart and vessels.
These effects can be mediated by changes in expression level and by post-translational modifications of proteins
(e.g. Stat1, CaMKII, Sirtuins, BCL-2 family members, PDEs, TRF2, eNOS and SOD). This non-comprehensive
short review aims to summarize recent knowledge on the main pharmacological effects and mechanisms of cardioprotection
of pure polyphenols, using different approaches such as cell culture, animal models and human
studies.
The Level of Cytokines in the Vitreous Body of Severe Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy Patients Undergoing Posterior Vitrectomy
Authors: Raczyńska Dorota , Lisowska Katarzyna A. , Pietruczuk Krzysztof , Borucka Joanna , Ślizień Mateusz , Raczyńska Krystyna , Glasner Leopold , Witkowski Jacek M.
Published: September 2018

Objective: The objective of the study was to compare cytokine levels in the vitreous body of patients
with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) undergoing posterior vitrectomy.

Patients and methods:

The study included 39 patients (39 eyes) undergoing pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Patients
were divided into three groups: patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) without aflibercept
injection prior to the surgery, PDR patients administered aflibercept injection prior to the surgery, and patients
without diabetes mellitus (control group). All patients underwent a comprehensive eye examination one day before
and 3 weeks after the surgery, including measurements of: best-corrected visual acuity (BVCA) and intraocular
pressure (IOP), slit-lamp examination and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SOCT). Concentrations
of cytokines: IL-6, IL-8, IL-12p70, TNF, IL-10, IL-1β were measured in the vitreous body of patients with
BD™ Cytometric Bead Array (CBA) Human Inflammatory Cytokines Kit.

Results:

PDR patients who received pretreatment with aflibercept injection showed significantly lower concentrations
of IL-12p70, TNF, IL-10 and IL-1β in the vitreous body compared to the control group. Meanwhile, patients
without prior aflibercept injection had a significantly higher concentration of IL-8. There was also a significant
positive correlation between IOP before PPV and IL-8 concentration in both PDR patients’ groups.

Conclusion:

Findings of our study suggest an important role of IL-8 in the development of severe PDR. Aflibercept
administration on the day before elective vitrectomy facilitated the surgery.
Cancer Nanotechnology: A New Revolution for Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Chaturvedi Vivek K , Singh Anshuman , Singh Vinay K. , Singh Mohan P.
Published: September 2018

Background:

Nanotechnology is gaining significant attention worldwide for cancer treatment. Nanobiotechnology encourages the combination of diagnostics with therapeutics, which is a vital component of a customized way to deal with the malignancy. Nanoparticles are being used as Nanomedicine which participates in diagnosis and treatment of various diseases including cancer. The unique characteristic of Nanomedicine i.e. their high surface to volume ratio enables them to tie, absorb, and convey small biomolecule like DNA, RNA, drugs, proteins, and other molecules to targeted site and thus enhances the efficacy of therapeutic agents.

Objective:

The objective of the present article is to provide an insight of several aspect of nanotechnology in cancer therapeutics such as various nanomaterials as drug vehicle, drug release strategies and role of nanotechnology in cancer therapy.

Methods:

We performed an extensive search on bibliographic database for research article on nanotechnology and cancer therapeutics and further compiled the necessary information from various articles into the present article.

Results:

Cancer nanotechnology confers a unique technology against cancer through early diagnosis, prevention, personalized therapy by utilizing nanoparticles and quantum dots.Nano-biotechnology plays an important role in the discovery of cancer biomarkers. Quantum dots, gold nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, gold nanowires etc. have been developed as a carrier of biomolecules that can detect cancer biomarkers. Nanoparticle assisted cancer detection and monitoring involves biomolecules like proteins, antibody fragments, DNA fragments, and RNA fragments as the base of cancer biomarkers.

Conclusion:

This review highlights various approaches of cancer nanotechnology in the advancement of cancer therapy.
Food Components with the Potential to be Used in the Therapeutic Approach of Mental Diseases
Authors: Fernández María J.F. , Valero-Cases Estefanía , Rincon-Frutos Laura
Published: September 2018

Background:

Neurological disorders represent a high influence in our society throughout the world. Although the symptoms arising from those diseases are well known, the causes and mechanisms are complex and depending on multiple factors. Some food components consumed as part of our diet have been studied regarding their incidence in different common neurological diseases such as Alzheimer disease, major depression, Parkinson disease, autism and schizophrenia among others.

Objective:

In this review, information has been gathered on the main evidences arising from studies on the most promising food components, related to their therapeutic potential, as part of dietary supplements or through the diet, as an alternative or a complement of the traditional drug treatments. Those food components include vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, carotenoids, polyphenols, bioactive peptides, probiotics, creatine and saponins.

Results:

Many in vitro and in vivo animal studies, randomized and placebo control trials, and systematic reviews on the scientific results published in the literature, have been discussed, highlighting the more recent advances, also with the aim to explore the main research needs. Particular attention has been paid to the mechanisms of action of the compounds regarding their anti-inflammatory, antioxidative properties and neuronal protection.

Conclusion:

More research is needed to prove the therapeutic potential of the food components based on scientific evidence, also on intervention studies to demonstrate the improvement of neuronal and cognitive impairments.
Food with Influence in the Sexual and Reproductive Health
Authors: Silva Tânia , Jesus Mariana , Cagigal César , Silva Carla
Published: September 2018

Background:

Sexual dysfunction and infertility are conditions with high prevalence in the general population. Nutritional factors have been reported to have an impact on sexual and reproductive health.

Objective:

The aim of this review is to summarize the data on nutritional factors that have influence on male and female sexual and reproductive function, including nutritional status, specific foods (e.g. dairy food), nutrients and other food components and dietary supplements.

Method:

A literature search was performed using Cochrane Library, Medline and Science Direct databases without time limitations.

Results:

Obesity has a negative influence on male fertility, and weight loss improves male fertility. Food insufficiency is associated with increased sexual risk behaviours, more significant in women. Regarding macronutrients and group foods, trans-fatty acids, high glycemic index food, high carbohydrate diet and high animal protein intake prejudices fertility; omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, low glycemic index food and low carbohydrate diet, vegetable proteins and antioxidants improve fertility. Isoflavones have a negative impact on men fertility and improve sexual health of menopausal women. Whole milk improves women fertility, but men benefit from skim milk. Concerning dietary supplements, there is weak evidence sustaining efficacy, and the most promising supplements are yohimbine, vitamin B, L-arginine and vitamin D.

Conclusion:

The compiled results indicate that despite the multifactorial etiology of sexual/ reproductive dysfunction, nutritional factors may affect the sexual and reproductive health in both men and women. However, it is necessary to further study to clarify this association and simultaneously improve the approach and treatment of patients with sexual and/or reproductive problems.
Breaking the Barrier of Cancer Through Liposome Loaded with Phytochemicals
Authors: Giri Tapan Kumar
Published: September 2018

Currently, the most important cause of death is cancer. To treat the cancer there are a number of drugs existing in the market but no drug is found to be completely safe and effective. The toxicity of the drugs is the key problem in the cancer chemotherapy. However, plants and plant derived bioactive molecule have proved safe and effective in the treatment of cancers. Phytochemicals that are found in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and plant extract have been usually used for treating cancer. It has been established that several herbal drug have a strong anticancer activity. However, their poor bioavailability, solubility, and stability have severely restricted their use. These problems can be overcome by incorporating the herbal drug in nanolipolomal vesicles. In last few decades, researcher have used herbal drug loaded nanoliposome for the treatment and management of a variety of cancers. Presently, a number of liposomal formulations are on the market for the treatment of cancer and many more are in pipe line. This review discusses about the tumor microenvironment, targeting mechanism of bioactive phytochemicals to the tumor tissue, background of nanoliposome, and the potential therapeutic applications of different bioactive phytochemicals loaded nanoliposome in cancer therapy.
Alzheimer’s Disease – Future Therapy Based on Dendrimers
Authors: Aliev Gjumrakch , Ashraf Ghulam Md , Tarasov Vadim V. , Chubarev Vladimir N. , Leszek Jerzy , Gasiorowski Kazimierz , Makhmutovа Alfiya , Baeesa Saleh Salem , Avila-Rodriguez Marco , Ustyugov Aleksey A. , Bachurin Sergey O.
Published: September 2018

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by the loss of neurons. It is the most common
cause of dementia in the elderly population accompanied by pathological degeneration of neurofibrillary
tangles. Senile plaques are formed with beta-amyloid, hyperphosphoryled tau protein, apolipoprotein
E and presenilin associated with protease activity [amyloid beta (Aβ), gamma-secretase
(γS)]. The molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration include apoptosis, oxidative stress (free
radical generation), inflammation, immune activation, and others. The lack of effective treatments
for AD stems mainly from the incomplete understanding the causes of AD. Currently, there are
several hypotheses explaining the early mechanisms of AD pathogenesis. Recent years witnessed an
unprecedented research growth in the area of nanotechnology, which uses atomic, molecular and
macromolecular methods to create products in microscale (nanoscale) dimensions. In this article,
we have discussed the role of nanotechnology in the development and improvement of techniques
for early diagnosis and effective treatment of AD. Since AD pathology is practically irreversible,
applications of disease-modifying treatments could be successful only if early diagnosis of AD
is available. This review highlights various possibilities for the early diagnosis and therapy of AD
and investigates potential adaptation of nanoparticles-dendrimers as a class of well-defined
branched polymers that are chemically synthesized with a well-defined shape, size and nanoscopic
physicochemical properties reminiscent of the proteins for the treatment of neurodegenerative
diseases.
Omics-based Biomarkers for the Early Alzheimer Disease Diagnosis and Reliable Therapeutic Targets Development
Authors: Peña-Bautista Carmen , Baquero Miguel , Vento Máximo , Cháfer-Pericás Consuelo
Published: September 2018

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia in adulthood, has great medical, social, and economic impact worldwide. Available treatments result in symptomatic relief, and most of them are indicated from the early stages of the disease. Therefore, there is an increasing body of research developing accurate and early diagnoses, as well as diseasemodifying therapies.

Objective:

Advancing the knowledge of AD physiopathological mechanisms, improving early diagnosis and developing effective treatments from omics-based biomarkers.

Methods:

Studies using omics technologies to detect early AD, were reviewed with a particular focus on the metabolites/lipids, micro-RNAs and proteins, which are identified as potential biomarkers in non-invasive samples.

Results:

This review summarizes recent research on metabolomics/lipidomics, epigenomics and proteomics, applied to early AD detection. Main research lines are the study of metabolites from pathways, such as lipid, amino acid and neurotransmitter metabolisms, cholesterol biosynthesis, and Krebs and urea cycles. In addition, some microRNAs and proteins (microglobulins, interleukins), related to a common network with amyloid precursor protein and tau, have been also identified as potential biomarkers. Nevertheless, the reproducibility of results among studies is not good enough and a standard methodological approach is needed in order to obtain accurate information.

Conclusion:

The assessment of metabolomic/lipidomic, epigenomic and proteomic changes associated with AD to identify early biomarkers in non-invasive samples from well-defined participants groups will potentially allow the advancement in the early diagnosis and improvement of therapeutic interventions.
Basic Concepts of Contrast Injection Protocols for Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography
Authors: Oda Seitaro , Utsunomiya Daisuke , Nakaura Takeshi , Kidoh Masafumi , Funama Yoshinori , Tsujita Kenichi , Yamashita Yasuyuki
Published: September 2018

Background:

Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) has become one of
the most important diagnostic imaging modalities for the evaluation of coronary artery diseases.
During coronary computed CTA, sufficient vascular enhancement is essential for the accurate detection
and evaluation of lesions in the coronary arteries. To obtain optimal contrast enhancement
and perform appropriate clinical coronary CTA, physicians, radiologists, and radiology technologists
should acquire a basic knowledge of contrast injection protocols.

Conclusion:

This review article summarizes the basic concepts of contrast injection protocols for
coronary CTA.
A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Effects of Oral N-Acetyl Cysteine on Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Hashemi Ghazal , Mirjalili Mahtabalsadat , Basiri Zahra , Tahamoli-Roudsari Ahmad , Kheiripour Nejat , Shahdoust Maryam , Ranjbar Akram , Mehrpooya Maryam , Ataei Sara
Published: September 2018

Background: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a common inflammatory disease of the
joints. Due to the importance of inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of RA, drugs
that have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, such as N-acetyl Cysteine (NAC), can be
used as adjunctive therapy in patients with RA.

Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of oral NAC on inflammatory cytokines and
oxidative stress in patients with RA.

Methods: Adjunct to standard treatment, the NAC group (23 patients) received 600 mg of NAC
twice daily and the placebo group (19 patients) received identical placebo twice daily for 12 weeks.
Serum levels of Total Oxidant Status (TOS), Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), nitric oxide (NO),
Total Thiol Groups (TTG), Malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-
6 (IL-6), C-reactive Protein (CRP), and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) were
measured at baseline and at the end of the study.

Results: Results showed that in the NAC group, the serum levels of MDA, NO, IL-6, TNF-α, ESR
and CRP were significantly lower than the baseline. Also, the serum level of TAC and TTG, as
antioxidant parameters, increased significantly. However, only NO, MDA and TTG showed a significant
difference in the NAC group as compared to the placebo group at the end of study.

Conclusion: According to the results of this study, oral NAC can significantly reduce the several
oxidative stress factors and inflammatory cytokines. These results need to be confirmed in larger
studies while considering clinical outcomes of RA patients.
Trends on the Rapid Expansion of Supercritical Solutions Process Applied to Food and Non-food Industries
Authors: Gomes Maria T.M.S. , Santana Ádina L. , Santos Diego T. , Meireles Maria A.A.
Published: September 2018

Background:

The supercritical fluids applied to particle engineering over the last years
have received growing interest from the food and non-food industries, in terms of processing, packaging,
and preservation of several products. The rapid expansion of supercritical solutions (RESS)
process has been recently reported as an efficient technique for the production of free-solvent particles
with controlled morphology and size distribution.

Objective:

In this review, we report technological aspects of the application of the RESS process
applied to the food and non-food industry, considering recent data and patent survey registered in
literature.

Methods:

The effect of process parameters cosolvent addition, temperature, pressure, nozzle size among
others, during RESS on the size, structure and morphology of the resulted particles, and the main differences
about recent patented RESS processes are reviewed.

Results:

Most of the experimental works intend to optimize their processes through investigation of
process parameters.

Conclusion:

RESS is a feasible alternative for the production of particles with a high yield of bioactive
constituents of interest to the food industry. On the other hand, patents developed using this type of process
for food products are very scarce, less attention being given to the potential of this technique to develop
particles from plant extracts with bioactive substances.
Incidência de anemia em pacientes com doença renal atendidos no laboratório
do hospital são lucas no período de fevereiro a julho de 2014
Authors: Filho José Euripedes Serafim de Oliveira , Caixeta Bruno Tolentino
Published: September 2018

A presença da anemia na doença renal crônica é determinada por diferentes fatores. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi entender e explicar a relação da IR no surgimento da anemia, por meio da compreensão de exames e do diagnostico. A metodologia utilizada foi retrospectiva, analítica, explicativa e longitudinal. Analisaram-se os valores dos parâmetros do eritrogama e de ureia pré e pós hemodiálise disponíveis no banco de dados do acervo eletrônico dos pacientes atendidos no Laboratório do Hospital São Lucas da cidade de Patos de Minas durante o período de 6 meses. Do total de 344 exames analisados, houve a ocorrência de anemia em 309 pacientes. Os resultados das médias geral para ambos os sexos foram: hemácias 3,50x106/mm3(±0,61), hemoglobina10,33g/dL(±1,76), hematócrito 31,21%(±5,26), VCM 90,58fL(±7,11), HCM 29,60pg(±2,14), ureia pré 114,09mgdl(±39,48) e ureia pós 34,80mg/dl(±14,07). Os valores encontrados para a ureia foram acima do valor de referência para ambas as etapas. Esta pesquisa teve um parecer consubstanciado aprovado pelo CEP Fundação Educacional de Patos de Minas-AEPM com número de parecer 1.467.943. As evidências propostas enfatizam o papel da Doença Renal Crônica (DRC) em pacientes dialíticos e sua associação com a anemia. O declínio da função renal e por consequência o surgimento da anemia normocítica normocrômica se mostrou presente em 90% dos pacientes devido ser uma das manifestações mais frequentes na DRC.
Blog e outras estratégias transmidiáticas para a construção da identidade das marcas: jovem nerd e lego
Authors: Angeruzzi Alessandra Mazzariolli de Oliveira , Araújo Marcelo Marques
Published: September 2018

Este paper tem o objetivo de demonstrar por meio das trajetórias de trabalho das marcas Jovem Nerd e Lego,como o blog e as diversas estratégias transmídia são essenciais para a propagação das marcas nos meios digitais. Quando as ações são desenvolvidas de forma contínua e com produção de conteúdo de qualidade, permitem a construção da identidade das marcas, promovendo engajamento dos consumidores, construindo fãs e co-criações com a participação dos usuários/leitores/fãs. Este artigo tem fundamentação teórica de Henry Jenkins, Sam Ford, Joshua Green, Martha Gabriel eDavidWooten.
NEW ANALYTICAL METHODS FOR ESTIMATION OF ARTEETHER BY UV AND FLUORESCENCE SPECTROPHOTOMETRY: DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION
Authors: Thakur Shikha , Bajwa Neha , Baldi Ashish
Published: September 2018

The present research work discusses the development and validation of two different spectrophotometric methods for estimation of Î±-Î² arteether using UV spectrophotometer and spectrofluorimeter for the first time. Two simple, accurate, precise, sensitiveand economical methods has been developed and validated for the estimation of Î±-Î² arteether in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage form as per ICH guidelines Q2(R1). The solvent used for UV spectroscopy was methanol and HCl (8:2) and methanol was used for fluorimeter. For qualitative and quantitative analysis, 254 nm was used in UV spectroscopy and excitation and emission wavelengths were set at 354 nm and 697 nm respectively for fluorimetry. Coefficients of correlation were found to be 0.993 and 0.992 for UV spectroscopy and fluorimetry. Both methods show good accuracy and precision and were compared statistically by using two way ANOVA which shows no significant difference between these methods. So the proposed methods were found to have equal applicability for estimation and routine analysis of arteether in pharmaceutical formulations.

Keywords: Arteether, Analytical method, Fluorimeter, Pharmaceutical formulation, UV spectrophotometer.