bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allograft Compared with Autograft in Osteochondral Transplantation for the Treatment of Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Authors: Shimozono Yoshiharu , Hurley Eoghan T. , Nguyen Joseph T. , Deyer Timothy W. , Kennedy John G.
Published: November 2018

Background:

There is a paucity of clinical studies that compare the efficacy of autograft and allograft in osteochondral transplantation for treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT). The purpose of the present study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes following osteochondral transplantation with autograft or allograft for OLT.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis comparing patients treated with autograft or allograft for OLT was performed. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with use of the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and the Short Form-12 (SF-12) score. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was evaluated with use of the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) score. The rates of cyst occurrence, graft degradation, graft failure, and revision surgeries were also evaluated.

Results:

Twenty-five nonrandomized patients with autograft and 16 with allograft were included, with a mean follow-up of 26 months in the autograft group and 22 months in the allograft group. There were no significant differences among all demographic variables between the autograft and allograft groups. The mean postoperative FAOS was significantly higher in the autograft group (81.9; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 78.6 to 85.2) than in the allograft group (70.1; 95% CI: 63.7 to 76.5; p = 0.006). Similarly, the mean postoperative SF-12 scores were significantly higher in the autograft group (74.7; 95% CI: 71.0 to 78.4) than in the allograft group (66.1; 95% CI: 61.2 to 71.0; p = 0.021). MOCART scores were significantly better in the autograft group (87.1) than in the allograft group (75.5; p = 0.005). The rate of chondral wear on MRI was higher in the allograft group (53%) than in the autograft group (4%; p < 0.001). Cyst formation in the graft itself was more likely to occur in the allograft group (47%) than in the autograft group (8%; p = 0.017). The rate of secondary procedures for the graft was higher in the allograft group (25%) than in the autograft group (0%; p = 0.009).

Conclusions:

In this small nonrandomized cohort study, the procedures performed with use of an autograft provided better clinical and MRI outcomes than the allograft procedures. The rate of chondral wear on MRI was higher with allograft than with autograft, and allograft-treated patients had a higher rate of clinical failure.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Five to Ten-Year Results of the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing Implant in the U.S.
Authors: Ford Marcus C. , Hellman Michael D. , Kazarian Gregory S. , Clohisy John C. , Nunley Ryan M. , Barrack Robert L.
Published: November 2018

Background:

International surgeon series and registry data have demonstrated positive outcomes and long-term survival of the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) implant. We report the 5 to 10-year results from a single center in the U.S.

Methods:

Three hundred and fourteen patients (360 hips) underwent surface replacement arthroplasty with use of the BHR implant and consented to study participation. Patient-reported outcomes and complication and revision data were collected at a minimum of 5 years of follow-up for 93% (324 of 350) of the hips in surviving patients. A matched-cohort analysis was used to compare clinical outcomes between use of the BHR and total hip arthroplasty.

Results:

Mean modified Harris hip score (mHHS) and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) scores significantly improved postoperatively, to 89.9 and 8.0, respectively (p < 0.001). The Kaplan-Meier estimated rate of survival for all-cause revision was 97.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 94.7% to 98.5%) and 93.8% (95% CI, 88.8% to 96.7%) at 5 and 10 years, respectively. In a subgroup analysis of patients fitting our current BHR inclusion criteria (males <60 years of age with a diagnosis of osteoarthritis and anatomy conducive to a femoral head component of ≥48 mm), survival free of aseptic revision was 99.5% (95% CI, 96.6% to 99.9%) at 5 years and 98.2% (95% CI, 94.4% to 99.4%) at 10 years. Fourteen patients (4.3% of all hips) required revision. Postoperative UCLA scores were significantly greater for BHR compared with total hip arthroplasty (mean score of 8.0 ± 2.0 versus 7.6 ± 1.8; p = 0.040) in a matched-cohort analysis, with patients matched according to preoperative UCLA score, diagnosis, age, sex, and body mass index. Among matched patients who were highly active preoperatively (UCLA score of 9 to 10), BHR provided a smaller median decrease in the postoperative UCLA score (0.0 versus 1.0; p < 0.001), which was clinically important according to the minimal clinically important difference (MCID, 0.92). Furthermore, BHR provided a greater likelihood of remaining highly active compared with total hip arthroplasty (61% compared with 20%; p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

BHR demonstrated excellent survivorship and clinical outcomes at 5 to 10 years in selected patients. As compared with total hip arthroplasty, the use of the BHR may provide highly active patients with clinically important advantages in postoperative activity as well as a greater likelihood of remaining highly active. Continued follow-up is necessary to validate long-term BHR outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Experimental Validation of the Radiographic Union Score for Tibial Fractures (RUST) Using Micro-Computed Tomography Scanning and Biomechanical Testing in an in-Vivo Rat Model
Authors: Fiset Sandra , Godbout Charles , Crookshank Meghan C. , Zdero Radovan , Nauth Aaron , Schemitsch Emil H.
Published: November 2018

Background:

The Radiographic Union Score for Tibial fractures (RUST) and the modified version of the system, mRUST, are popular standards for assessing fracture-healing progress with use of radiographs. To our knowledge, this is the first study to experimentally validate the ability of RUST and mRUST to accurately assess bone-healing progression with use of both micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) scanning and biomechanical testing.

Methods:

Adult male rats (n = 29) underwent osteotomy with a midshaft fracture gap repaired with use of a polyetheretherketone plate. Anteroposterior and lateral radiographs were made of the repaired femora prior to rat death at end points of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 17 weeks, and 2 fellowship-trained orthopaedic trauma surgeons independently assigned RUST and mRUST scores to repaired femora. The repaired and intact contralateral femora were then dissected. Bones underwent dissection, micro-CT scanning, and biomechanical torsion testing at the end points.

Results:

RUST scores ranged from 5 to 12 and mRUST scores ranged from 5 to 16. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.78 to 0.94) for RUST and 0.86 (95% CI: 0.74 to 0.93) for mRUST, which fall within the “almost perfect agreement” category for ICCs. Spearman rank correlation coefficients (RS) showed correlation of RUST (RSrange, 0.456 to 0.818) and mRUST (RSrange, 0.519 to 0.862) with micro-CT measurements of mineralized callus volume (BV), total callus volume (TV), and BV/TV ratio, but less so with bone mineral density (BMD). Additionally, RUST (RSrange, 0.524 to 0.863) and mRUST (RSrange, 0.434 to 0.850) were correlated with some biomechanical properties. A RUST score of 10 or an mRUST score of 15 may be considered the threshold above which a plated bone is “healed” because, at these scores, 120% or 140% of failure torque, respectively, was achieved by the repaired femora as compared with the intact contralateral femora.

Conclusions:

RUST and mRUST both show strong statistical correlations with micro-CT and biomechanical parameters.

Clinical Relevance:

RUST and mRUST scoring systems provide clinicians with validated, reliable, and available tools to assess the progress of fracture-healing.
Effectiveness and Sustainability of a Standardized Care Pathway Developed with Use of Lean Process Mapping for the Treatment of Patients Undergoing Posterior Spinal Fusion for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Oetgen Matthew E. , Martin Benjamin D. , Gordish-Dressman Heather , Cronin Jessica , Pestieau Sophie R.
Published: November 2018

Background:

Recent changes in health care have begun to shift the industry from a volume-based to a value-based focus. This shift has led to standardized care pathways that decrease care variability, improve outcomes, and decrease cost. Although numerous studies have described standardized pathways for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), few have demonstrated sustainability. We report the effectiveness and sustainability of a standardized care pathway for patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion for AIS.

Methods:

A standardized care pathway was developed and implemented (in March 2015) at our pediatric hospital for all patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion for AIS. This pathway was developed with use of the Lean process mapping technique to create an evidence-based protocol for preoperative, operative, postoperative, and post-discharge care. The 44 patients managed prior to implementation of the pathway (pre-pathway group) were compared with the 169 patients managed after implementation (post-pathway group). The post-pathway group was divided into 5 cohorts, each representing a 6-month time period. Clinical outcomes (pain scores, medication requirements, transfusions) and efficiency metrics (length of stay) were used to determine pathway sustainability.

Results:

The pre-pathway group included patients managed in the 8 months prior to implementation (July 2014 to February 2015) and the post-pathway group included patients who underwent surgery from March 2015 to July 2017, divided into 5 cohorts representing 6 months each. Patients in the post-pathway group had lower postoperative pain scores, and used significantly less opioids at each time interval, compared with the pre-pathway group. Perioperative transfusion requirements and postoperative length of stay were significantly lower across all post-pathway cohorts compared with the pre-pathway group. There were no significant differences in clinical results among the 5 post-pathway cohorts.

Conclusions:

Implementation of a standardized care pathway developed with use of Lean process mapping demonstrated effective and sustained improvements to the care of patients with AIS, as well as decreased postoperative length of stay. These outcomes have been maintained over 2.5 years, indicating that high-quality care for patients with AIS undergoing spinal fusion can be achieved and sustained with use of a standardized care pathway.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Effect of acupuncture on insomnia in menopausal women: A Study protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Shanshan , Yin Ping , Yin Xuan , Bogachko Anna , Liang Tingting , Lao Lixing , Xu Shifen
Published: November 2018

Background: China today has high occurrences of insomnia in perimenopausal women. Some studies have shown that acupuncture might be effective in treating primary insomnia and insomnia related to depression and stroke. Although there are some programs supporting insomnia during the menopausal transition, there are few randomized controlled trials to provide evidence regarding their effectiveness. We design a randomized controlled trial of suitable sample size to verify the effectiveness of acupuncture in patients with insomnia during the menopausal transition and to form an optimized acupuncture treatment protocol.

Method/Design: In this randomized, single-site, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 84 eligible patients will be recruited and randomly assigned to either the acupuncture group (n = 42) or the sham control group (n = 42) in a 1:1 ratio. Participants will receive a total of 18 sessions of treatment for eight consecutive weeks. Treatments will be given three times per week in the first four weeks, twice a week for the next two weeks and finally treatment once weekly for the final two weeks. Treatment will utilize eight main acupoints (GV20, GV24, GV29, RN6, RN4, SP6, HT7, EX-HN22), and extra two acupoints based on syndrome differentiation. The primary outcome will be assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The secondary outcomes will be measured by sleep parameters recorded in the Actigraphy (SE, TST, SA), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) and Menopause Quality of Life (Men-QOL). The primary outcomes will be assessed at baseline, week four, week eight, and first and the third month following the end of treatment.
Discussion: If the results confirm that acupuncture is effective and safe for the treatment on insomnia in menopausal women, this positive outcome could provide evidence for clinical application.
CONCEPTION OF PROVIDING THE OPERATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE FUNCTIONING PROCESS OF INNOVATIVELY ORIENTED ENTERPRISES
Authors: Boiarynova Kateryna
Published: November 2018

Economic instability, continuous change of conditions, that innovatively oriented enterprises function in, complicate the achievement of planned results and decrease the efficiency of using strategic management of the development. Taking into account the aforesaid, the aim of the article is to elaborate a conception of providing the operational development in the functioning process of innovatively oriented enterprises, based on the complex of operational actions (economic functions), achieving tactic and strategic purpose-oriented results for transferring the economic system of an enterprise in the new development stage. According to research results, it was grounded, that the aim of functioning of innovatively oriented enterprises at realizing the operational development process forms as a combination of the innovatively oriented evolution of the economic system and the increase of the economic return for the further use in the development process. It was proved, that the development at the operational level is a process of purpose-oriented changes that provide transferring an enterprise to the new development stage. Such purpose-oriented changes are offered to be realized through realizing economic functions in the internal environment of an enterprise, directed not only on current functioning processes, but also development that allows to attain the sufficient economic return level. It was revealed, that it is expedient to realize them, based on using factors of production and management of economic relations both at the level “subject – object” and “object – object”, considering an innovatively oriented enterprise as an ecosystem. For this aim, its construction and structure are grounded; the characteristic of key complicated functional environments of components of an ecosystem is given. It was elucidated, that the economic evolution of an enterprise takes place through the change of stages (phases) of the functional development level, at each of them the complex of economic functions is realized, and the economic return is obtained according to an achieved position in the development process.
Water quality before and after a campaign of cleaning and disinfecting shallow wells: a study conducted during and after floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Ali Rashid , Bünzli Marc-André , Colombo Luca , Khattak Seema Anjum , Pera Sebastián , Riaz Mohammad , Valsangiacomo Claudio
Published: November 2018

This study reports on a water quality assessment of the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene program implemented by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation in the districts of Charsadda and Nowshera in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, in the aftermath of the severe flood of 2010. During emergency operations, over 4,500 shallow wells were cleaned using the standard protocol suggested by the World Health Organization. Bacteriological analysis and chemical-physical parameters such as temperature, conductivity, turbidity and pH were tested before and after cleaning. Four to five years after the emergency operation, in 2014–15, a set of 105 representative wells was analyzed again, considering the same parameters and looking for additional contaminants (pesticides, arsenic and fluoride). The post-flood well-cleaning campaign was effective in the immediate reduction of fecal contamination of water (from 85% to 20% as measured 7–30 days after cleaning); however in the following months/years the rate of fecal contamination rose again (up to 62% of all measured domestic wells, n = 105). Along with laboratory analysis data, this study investigated the source of contamination of shallow wells and identified human practices in several cases. This information was useful for the design of future SDC interventions in the WASH sector.
Assessing the impacts of climate change on the high altitude snow- and glacier-fed hydrological regimes of Astore and Hunza, the sub-catchments of Upper Indus Basin
Authors: Farhan Suhaib Bin , Zhang Yinsheng , Aziz Adnan , Gao Haifeng , Ma Yingzhao , Kazmi Jamil , Shahzad Atif , Hussain Iqtidar , Mansha Muhammad , Umar Mudassar , Nasir Jawad , Shafiq Muhammad , Farhan Yasir , Shaikh Saima , Zamir Umair Bin , Asad Fayyaz , Ahmed Raheel
Published: November 2018

Evaluation of the impacts of prevailing climate change on rivers and water resources is significantly important in order to successfully manage water resources, particularly in snow-fed and glacier-fed catchments. The basic aim of this research was to assess the impacts of climatic variability on Astore and Hunza river-flows by employing long-term in-situ hydro-meteorological data. Times-series analysis of high- and low-altitude station data revealed consistent summer cooling, and warming in winter and spring seasons in both Karakoram and western Himalayan basins of Hunza and Astore, respectively. The intensity of these changes was not found to be identical in both basins, i.e. Hunza depicts slightly higher summer cooling rates and slightly lower annual, winter and spring warming rates as compared to Astore. Subsequently, the significant increase in annual precipitation of Hunza was also not found to be identical with Astore precipitation, which shows only a slight increase of precipitation. Notwithstanding, comparable temperature trends were observed at both high- and low-altitude stations; however, on the contrary, precipitation shows a different pattern of behavior, i.e. significantly increased winter precipitation at high-altitude Astore stations was in contrast to the precipitation recorded by low-altitude stations. The study suggested that climate change is significantly influencing the characteristics and hydrological resources of this region.
OS CONCEITOS DE TRANSNACIONALISMO, ETNICIDADE, COMUNIDADE DIASPÓRICA E INTERCULTURALISMO NOS ESTUDOS MIGRATÓRIOS: UMA PROPOSTA DE APLICAÇÕES E ABORDAGENS
Authors: Escudero Camila
Published: November 2018

As migrações internacionais vêm sendo cada vez mais estudadas, cientificamente, não como um conjunto de atos e/ou eventos esporádicos, excepcionais ao curso da vida, mas como processos coletivos e duradouros, nos quais múltiplos arranjos favorecem a construção de identidades nacionais, étnicas, sociais e culturais no atual quadro civilizatório e organizacional. Assim, o objetivo deste artigo é apresentar os conceitos de transnacionalismo, etnicidade, comunidade diaspórica e interculturalismo como abordagem capazes de criar ou (re)atualizar análises das lógicas intrínsecas ao cenário dos estudos migratórios. A partir de pesquisa bibliográfica, indicamos que, na prática, os quatro conceitos propostos são elásticos e há limites e restrições em seu uso. Porém, podem ser “fertilizadores” se os entendermos como um processo de ressimbolização, no qual a memória dos objetos se conserva e em que a tensão entre elementos díspares gera novos objetos.
REFUGIADOS E AS FRONTEIRAS BRASILEIRAS: ANÁLISES SOBRE A SECURITIZAÇÃO DESSES ESPAÇOS, “CAPACITY BUILDING” E A GARANTIA DOS DIREITOS HUMANOS.
Authors: Corrêa Adriana dos Santos
Published: November 2018

O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar os espaços de fronteiras e as suas implicações de segurança utilizando uma abordagem mais ampla dos estudos de Segurança Internacional. Ademais, busca-se identificar elementos que configuram a securitização das fronteiras brasileiras e dos imigrantes e refugiados que por ela adentram, estabelecendo relações desse contexto com o panorama atual de proteção e garantia dos direitos humanos por parte do Estado. Utilizamos para o estudo o conceito de “securitização” proposto por autores da Escola de Copenhague, sob uma abordagem construtivista das relações internacionais. Esta abordagem considera que a ameaça à segurança nacional é construída socialmente, e que diversos temas podem ser securitizados. Esta pesquisa se pautou em análises bibliográficas acerca do instituto do refúgio nas Relações Internacionais, sobre o contexto brasileiro de proteção e a realidade das fronteiras brasileira em relação a esses temas e conta ainda com as contribuições do conceito de “Capacity Building” para uma análise sobre a interferência da estrutura estatal na garantia dos direitos humanos. Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com algumas instituições que lidam com a temática do refúgio e com imigrantes haitianos que vivem na cidade de Dourados (MS). Identificamos várias ações por parte das instituições e da sociedade fronteiriça que demonstram a alta securitização desses espaços e os desdobramentos desse processo na vida de quem solicita refúgio no Brasil.
CYBER-RELAÇÕES: SUJEITOS E IDENTIDADES NAS REDES SOCIAIS
Authors: Bavaresco Paulo Ricardo , Colognese Sílvio Antônio , Zanatta Crestani Taíza Gabriela
Published: November 2018

Neste artigo refletimos sobre os novos sujeitos e identidades que vêm sendo construídos através do uso das redes sociais na internet. Que argumentos justificam a criação de um perfil virtual? O que os usuários do Facebook, do Twitter ou do Instagram buscam ao fazer uso destas plataformas? Quais as implicações da valorização da projeção virtual dos acontecimentos? No intuito de contextualizar estas indagações e melhor compreendê-las, optamos pelo desenvolvimento de uma pesquisa de caráter qualitativo. Foram realizadas entrevistas com vinte sujeitos, acadêmicos de cursos de graduação da UNOESC-SC, nascidos na década de 1990 e que na época do desenvolvimento do estudo participavam de redes sociais e mantinham relações mediadas por instrumentos tecnológicos. A delimitação da amostragem deu-se por conveniência. Os dados oriundos da realização das entrevistas foram transcritos e analisados de acordo com as orientações do método hermenêutico-dialético. Como resultado, verificou-se que entre os vinte participantes, atrair a atenção é uma das prioridades do uso das redes sociais (visto que a intenção das postagens é receber “curtidas”), e que “ser popular” é considerado um ideal a ser conquistado. Conclui-se, neste sentido, que a dinâmica que mantém os usuários interconectados é narcísica, e que a necessidade excessiva de exposição, por ter se tornado cotidiana, incita a modificação das formas segundo as quais os sujeitos enxergam e definem a si. No ciberespaço, novos sujeitos e identidades se fundem em ‘modos de ser’ atualizados, os quais repercutem também no mundo das relações off. Buscar apreender estas implicações constituem alguns dos desafios a serem perseguidos para o desenvolvimento de estudos nesta área.
O DESENVOLVIMENTO HUMANO DA “VIDA PÚBLICA” E “VIDA PRIVADA” DA MULHER: “CONTEXTOS” DE MUDANÇA OU REPRODUÇÃO DE PAPÉIS SOCIAIS DE GÊNERO
Authors: Martins-Suarez Fernanda Chiozzini , Farias Rita de Cássia Pereira , Reis Lilian Caixêta Perdigão
Published: November 2018

O presente ensaio convida o leitor a uma análise com base nas teorias sociológicas e psicológicas sobre a inserção e participação da mulher na esfera pública, no que se refere mais precisamente, a entrada feminina no mercado de trabalho. A intenção do trabalho é propor uma reflexão sobre a conciliação do papel feminino socialmente esperado de mãe e esposa em confronto com seu interesse e necessidade individual de atuar no mercado de trabalho. Para esta análise, foi proposta uma relação de teorias das áreas anteriormente citadas com o filme O Sorriso de monalisa que ilustra esta angustia da conciliação dos papéis sociais femininos na década de 1950.
Manipulation of the Immune System for Cancer Defeat: A Focus on the T Cell Inhibitory Checkpoint Molecules
Authors: D’Arrigo Paolo , Tufano Martina , Rea Anna , Vigorito Vincenza , Novizio Nunzia , Russo Salvatore , Romano Maria Fiammetta , Romano Simona
Published: November 2018

The immune system actively counteracts the tumorigenesis process; a breakout of the immune system function, or its ability to recognize transformed cells, can favor cancer development. Cancer becomes able to escape from immune system control by using multiple mechanisms, which are only in part known at a cellular and molecular level. Among these mechanisms, in the last decade, the role played by the so-called “inhibitory immune checkpoints” is emerging as pivotal in preventing the tumor attack by the immune system. Physiologically, the inhibitory immune checkpoints work to maintain the self-tolerance and attenuate the tissue injury caused by pathogenic infections. Cancer cell exploits such immune-inhibitory molecules to contrast the immune intervention and induce tumor tolerance. Molecular agents that target these checkpoints represent the new frontier for cancer treatment. Despite the heterogeneity and multiplicity of molecular alterations among the tumors, the immune checkpoint targeted therapy has been shown to be helpful in selected and even histologically different types of cancer, and are currently being adopted against an increasing variety of tumors. The most frequently used is the moAb-based immunotherapy that targets the Programmed Cell Death 1 protein (PD-1), the PD-1 Ligand (PD-L1) or the cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA4). However, new therapeutic approaches are currently in development, along with the discovery of new immune checkpoints exploited by the cancer cell. This article aims to review the inhibitory checkpoints, which are known up to now, along with the mechanisms of cancer immunoediting. An outline of the immune checkpoint targeting approaches, also including combined immunotherapies and the existing trials, is also provided. Notwithstanding the great efforts devoted by researchers in the field of biomarkers of response, to date, no validated FDA-approved immunological biomarkers exist for cancer patients. We highlight relevant studies on predictive biomarkers and attempt to discuss the challenges in this field, due to the complex and largely unknown dynamic mechanisms that drive the tumor immune tolerance.
Detecting Personalized Determinants During Drug Treatment from Omics Big Data
Authors: Wang Lu , Yu Xiangtian , Zhang Chengming , Zeng Tao
Published: November 2018

Backgrounds: Targeted therapy is the foundation of personalized medicine in cancer, which is often
understood as the right patient using the right drug. Thinking from the viewpoint of determinants during personalized
drug treatment, the genetics, epigenetics and metagenomics would provide individual-specific biological
elements to characterize the personalized responses for therapy.

Methods:

Such personalized determinants should be not only understood as specific to one person, while they
should have certain replicate observations in a group of individuals but not all, which actually provide more
credible and reproducible personalized biological features. The requirement of detecting personalized
determinants is well supported by novel high-throughput sequencing technologies and newly temporal-spatial
experimental protocols, which quickly produce the omics big data.

Results:

In this mini-review, we would like to give a brief introduction firstly on the advanced drug or drug-like
therapy with genetics, epigenetics and metagenomics, respectively, from the viewpoint of personalized
determinants; then summarize the computational methods helpful to analyze the corresponding omics data under
the consideration of personalized biological context; and particularly focus on metagenomics to discuss current
data, method, and opportunity for personalized medicine.

Conclusion:

Totally, detecting personalized determinants during drug treatment from omics big data will bring
the precision medicine or personalized medicine from concept to application. More and more inspiring biotechnologies,
data resources, and analytic approaches will benefit All of US in the near future.
Mechanistic and Kinetic Study of Atmospheric Oxidation of Chlordane Initiated by OH Radicals
Authors: Ding Zhezheng , Yi Yayi , Xu Fei , Zhang Qingzhu , Xu Xiaoli , Wang Wenxing
Published: November 2018

Chlordane, one of the extremely hazardous Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), was widely
used as pesticides all over the world and its residues have been detected at high concentrations in
many areas. As a species of Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs), chlordane exists mainly in
the atmosphere where it can be migrated and transformed. Due to the carcinogenic and mutagenic
properties, understanding its atmospheric fate is of great significance. In the present work, the oxidation
mechanism of chlordane initiated by OH radicals under the atmospheric conditions was investigated
by using Density Functional Theory (DFT). The geometrical structures were optimized at the M06-
2X/6-311+g(d,p) level and single-point energies were calculated at the M06-2X/6-311+g(3df,2p) level.
The relevant rate constants of the key elementary reactions were calculated by using Rice-Ramsperger-
Kassel-Marcus (RRKM) theory at 298 K and 1 atm. All of the energetically favorable pathways were
discussed in detail, and theoretical results showed that the oxidation products are dichlorochlordene,
hydroxychlrodane, cycloketone and dichloracyl. Combined with available experimental observation,
this study can, therefore, help to clarify the atmospheric fate of chlordane.
Visible Light Assisted Hantzsch Reaction: Synthesis of Polycyclic Dihydropyridines
Authors: Nadaf Ankusab Noorahmadsab , Shivashankar Kalegowda
Published: November 2018

The polycyclic dihydropyridine nucleus represents the heterocyclic system of invaluable
core motifs with wide applications in chemical, biological and physical properties. Although this kind
of compounds have been extensively synthesized by other groups, the synthesis of these compounds
under CFL light intensity were not explored. The synthesis of polycyclic dihydropyridine derivatives
were achieved through the reaction of 4-hydroxycoumarin, aromatic aldehydes and ammonium acetate
under CFL light irradiation conditions. A series of polycyclic dihydropyridine derivatives were prepared
under CFL light irradiation conditions with high yield, short reaction time, ambient condition and
without the use of catalyst. The results displayed an efficient method for the synthesis of polycyclic dihydropyridine
derivatives. Clean profile, short reaction time, low cost and use of CFL light intensity
instead of catalyst making it a genuinely green protocol.
Design and Synthesis of the Diazirine-based Clickable Photo-affinity Probe Targeting Sphingomyelin Synthase 2
Authors: Wang Penghui , Li Zhining , Jiang Lulu , Zhou Lu , Ye Deyong
Published: November 2018

Background:

SMS family plays a very important role in sphingolipids metabolism and is involved in the membrane mobility and signaling transduction.

Methods:

SMS2 subtype was related to a variety of diseases and could be regarded as a promising potential drug target. However, the uncertainty of the binding sites and the molecular mechanism of action limited the development of SMS2 inhibitors. Herein, we discovered a photo-affinity probe PAL-1 targeting SMS2.

Results:

The enzyme inhibitory activity and the photo-affinity labeling experiments showed that PAL-1 could be mono-labeled on SMS2.

Conclusion:

In summary, starting from the N-arylbenzamides core structure and the minimalist terminal alkyne-containing diazirine photo-crosslinker, we designed and synthesized a photoaffinity probe PAL-1 targeting SMS2. The enzymatic inhibitory activity study showed that PAL-1 exhibited superior selectivities for SMS2 with an IC50 of 0.37 µM over SMS1.
Production of Rhamnolipid Biosurfactant from Fed Batch Culture by Pseudomonas aeruginosa using Multiple Substrates
Authors: Eswari Jujjavarapu S.
Published: November 2018

Objective:

Biosurfactants are the surface active agents which are used for the reduction of
surface and interfacial tensions of liquids. Rhamnolipids are the surfactants produced by Pseudomonas
aeruginosa. It requires minimum nutrition for its growth as it can also grow in distilled water.
The rhamnolipids produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa are extra-cellular glycolipids consisting of
L-rhamnose and 3-hydroxyalkanoic acid.

Methods:

The fed-batch method for the rhamnolipid production is considered in this study to know
the influence of the carbon, nitrogen, phosphorous substrates as growth-limiting nutrients. Pulse
feeding is employed for limiting nutrient addition at particular time interval to obtain maximum
rhamnolipid formation from Pseudomonas aeruginosa compared with the batch process.

Results:

Out of 3 fed batch strategies constant glucose fed batch strategy shows best and gave maximum
rhamnolipid concentration of 0.134 g/l.
Quality Characteristics of Rotative-type Biscuits Free of Gluten Prepared with Soya Flour and Cassava Starch
Authors: Dahmer Alice Maria , Rigo Aline Andressa , Valduga Eunice , Steffens Juliana , Steffens Clarice , Carrão-Panizzi Mercedes Concordia
Published: November 2018

Background:

The objective of this work was to develop rotative-type biscuits, replacing
wheat flour with alternative ingredients without gluten, made from soy flour and cassava starch.

Methods:

Three formulations with different concentrations of soy flour (9.28-18.55% m/m) and cassava
starch (27.83-37.10% m/m) were made. The biscuit formulations were evaluated in relation to
physical, chemical, microbiological and sensorial characteristics.

Results:

In the present study, the rotative-type biscuit formulations containing soy flour and cassava
starch were elaborated without the wheat proteins, responsible for the formation of the gluten network,
presented typical and desirable characteristics such as hardness and color, in addition to a good
yield and increase in protein, minerals, lipids and fiber contents and with an acceptability greater than
70%. It is possible to add around 14-18% of soy flour and 27-32% of cassava starch, without affecting
the technological characteristics and nutritional properties of the product.

Conclusion:

Rotative-type biscuits employ a simple processing technology and low cost, using soy
flour and cassava starch and are alternatives to gluten-free products.
Small Molecular Leads Differentially Active Against HER2 Positive and Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Badran Adnan , Atia-tul-Wahab  , Fayyaz Sharmeen , Baydoun Elias , Choudhary Muhammad Iqbal
Published: November 2018

Background:

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer type in women globally. It is characterized by distinct subtypes depending on different gene expression patterns. Oncogene HER2 is expressed on the surface of cell and is responsible for cell growth regulation. Increase in HER2 receptor protein due to gene amplification, results in aggressive growth, and high metastasis in cancer cells.

Methods:

The current study evaluates and compares the anti-breast cancer effect of commercially available compounds against HER2 overexpressing BT-474, and triple negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines.

Results:

Preliminary in vitro cell viability assays on these cell lines identified 6 lead molecules active against breast cancer. Convallatoxin (4), a steroidal lactone glycoside, showed the most potent activity with IC50 values of 0.63 ± 0.56, and 0.69 ± 0.59 µM against BT-474 and MDA-MB-231, respectively, whereas 4-[4-(Trifluoromethyl)-phenoxy] phenol (3) a phenol derivative, and Reserpine (5) an indole alkaloid selectively inhibited the growth of BT-474, and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, respectively.

Conclusion:

These results exhibited the potential of small molecules in the treatment of HER2 amplified and triple negative breast cancers in vitro.
3, 3-Dimethylquercetin Inhibits the Proliferation of Human Colon Cancer RKO Cells through Inducing G2/M Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis
Authors: Wu Jianguo , Yi Jun , Wu Yanbin , Chen Xuzheng , Zeng Jianwei , Wu Jinzhong , Peng Wei
Published: November 2018

Background:

Our previous study successfully identified that 3,3-Dimethylquercetin (DMQ) acted
as a potent anticancer agent against human colon cancer cell lines RKO. Thus, this study was conducted to investigate
the underlying mechanism by which DMQ displayed inhibitory activity in RKO cells.

Methods:

Flow cytometry was used to evaluate the effect of DMQ on the cell cycle arrest, as well as the mitochondrial
membrane potential in RKO cells. DAPI staining and DNA fragmentation ladder assays were performed
to assess the apoptosis inducing activity of DMQ. Furthermore, western blot analysis was conducted to
examine the expression of related proteins responsible for the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.

Results:

Treatment with DMQ caused a significant increase in the fraction of G2/M cells, and induced remarkable
apoptosis. Furthermore, western blot analysis showed that DMQ arrested cells at G2/M checkpoint by
down-regulation of cyclin B1, cdc2 and cdc25c and up-regulation of p21, and induced cell apoptosis via affecting
the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2, causing loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential and enhancing the expression
of cleaved caspase-9 (C-caspase-9) and cleaved caspase-3 (C-caspase-3).

Conclusion:

These data showed that DMQ could suppress RKO cell growth by arresting RKO cells at G2/M
checkpoint and inducing mitochondria-dependent cell apoptosis. Our findings shed light on the potential use of
DMQ as a chemotherapeutic agent for CRC.
Efficacy of Celecoxib Adjunct Treatment on Bipolar Disorder: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bavaresco Daniela V. , Colonetti Tamy , Grande Antônio J. , Colom Francesc , Valvassori Samira S. , Quevedo João , da Rosa Maria I.
Published: November 2018

Background:

Bipolar Disorder (BD) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by mood disturbances.
The pathophysiology of BD is still poorly understood. In the last years, research studies focused
on the role of inflammation in BD.

Objective:

Performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the potential effect of the cyclo-
oxygenases (Cox)-2 inhibitor Celecoxib adjunct treatment in BD through randomized controlled
trials (RCT).

Methods:

A search on the electronic databases was proceeded, on MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus,
Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Biomed Central, Web of Science,
IBECS, LILACS, PsycINFO, Congress Abstracts, and Grey literature (Google Scholar and the British
Library) for studies published from January 1990 to February 2018. A search strategy was developed
using the terms: “Bipolar disorder” or “Bipolar mania” or “Bipolar depression” or “Bipolar mixed” or
“Bipolar euthymic” and “Celecoxib” or “Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors” or “Cox-2 inhibitors” as text
words and Medical Subject Headings (i.e., MeSH and EMTREE) and searched. The therapeutic effects
of adjunctive treatment with Celecoxib were analyzed. The meta-analysis was performed including the
results of the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) at the end of RCT.

Results:

Three primary studies were included in the systematic review, with a total of 121 patients.
The meta-analysis showed a significant effect on the YMRS scores from patients with BD who used
Celecoxib adjuvant treatment in comparison to placebo.

Conclusion:

The systematic review suggests that adjuvant treatment with Celecoxib improves the response
of major treatments in patients with BD when compared with adjuvant placebo treatment.

Systematic Review Registration Number:

The review protocol was registered at PROSPERO (registration
number: CRD42017067635); in June 06 2017.
Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears Without Arthritis Treated With Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Virk Mandeep S. , Nicholson Gregory P. , Romeo Anthony A.
Published: November 2018

Background:

Irreparable rotator cuff (RC) tears without arthritis is a challenging clinical problem in young adults. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has been proposed as one of the surgical treatment options for this condition.

Methods:

In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the role of RTSA for the management of irreparable RC tears without arthritis based on authors personal experience and available scientific literature.

Results:

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is a constrained arthroplasty system that can allow the deltoid and remaining rotator cuff to substitute for the lost function of irreparable RC. Furthermore, the pain relief is consistent with often a dramatic improvement in patient comfort, shoulder function and stability. In patients with pseudoparalysis of the shoulder without advanced arthritis, RTSA effectively restores forward elevation above the shoulder but may not dramatically improve external (ER) or internal rotation (IR). However, due to concerns over implant longevity, caution has to be exercised when using RTSA for symptomatic irreparable RC tears with preserved active forward elevation (AFE) and in patients less than 65 years of age.

Conclusion:

RTSA is a reasonable surgical option for irreparable rotator cuff repair without arthritis. However, caution should be exercised when offering RTSA to young patients and patient without pseudoparalysis because they can have a higher complication and dissatisfaction rate. In addition, longevity of RTSA and subsequent need for revision surgery remains a significant concern in this population.
Design and Development of Wireless Control System Architecture for ITER-India Gyrotron Test Facility
Authors: Mandge Deepak , Gajjar Nagendra Prakash
Published: November 2018

Background & Objective:

Wireless networks are making its way for use in industrial control
system applications. The installation of Wireless networks naturally provides a reduction in cable
and its maintenance related costs, provides increased flexibility and mobility to enhance the performance
of industrial control system.

Method:

This paper attempts to show the suitability of a wireless network in control system application
of ECRH system at IIGTF. IEEE 802.11n network is implemented to interface field instruments
with PLC based control system in an industry like environment. The two case studies with different
control architecture are implemented with satisfactory test results. The first case demonstrates the use
of a wireless network for monitoring and data acquisition of cooling water process parameters. The
second case implements the control and monitoring of the DC power supply over the wireless network
through a serial ASCII protocol. The performance of wireless communication alone in is evaluated
using theoretical analysis, simulation and actual field measurement. Then overall performance
of the case studies including field signals and PLC system is evaluated.

Conclusion:

The PLC application logic is developed for the implementation of logic functions to interface
various field instruments and power supply. The DC power supply is simulated using Labview
™ for serial ASCII communication. The above said concept is proposed for the Local Control
Unit being developed for ITER-India Test Gyrotron Facility.
A GAME-THEORETIC APPROACH TO THE CHOICE OF UNION-OLIGOPOLY BARGAINING AGENDA
Authors: Buccella Domenico , Fanti Luciano
Published: November 2018

ABSTRACT

This paper investigates the selection of the bargaining agenda in a unionized industry with decentralized negotiations for different competition modes. The firms choose the agenda (right-to-manage, RTM, versus efficient bargaining, EB), considering alternative timing of the bargaining game in the case of mixed duopoly. In fact, the EB (RTM) firm can be either Stackelberg wage follower (leader) or Stackelberg output leader (follower). A two-stage game is developed in which the typology as well as the timing of the negotiations is endogenous. It is shown that, in pure strategies, no equilibria arise for a wide set of the parameters’ space while RTM appears as the unique equilibrium agenda for a different combination of the parameters; moreover, multiple, asymmetric equilibria emerge in a limited area of the parameters’ space. These results are in sharp contrast to the received literature in which EB can arise as an industry bargaining institution in equilibrium.

 

UN ENFOQUE DE TEORÍA DE JUEGOS PARA LA SELECCIÓN DE LA AGENDA DE NEGOCIACIÓN DEL OLIGOPOLIO SINDICAL

 RESUMEN
Este artículo investiga la selección de la agenda de negociación en una industria sindicalizada con negociaciones descentralizadas para diferentes modos de competencia. Las empresas eligen la agenda (negociación con derecho de administrar, NDA, frente a negociación eficiente, NE) considerando casos alternativos de la sucesión de eventos en el juego de negociación con duopolio mixto. De hecho, la empresa NE (NDA) puede ser seguidora de salarios Stackelberg (líder) o líder de cantidades Stackelberg (seguidora). Se desarrolla un juego de dos etapas en el que la tipología y el momento de las negociaciones son endógenos. Se muestra que en estrategias puras no surgen equilibrios para un amplio conjunto del espacio de los parámetros, mientras que NDA aparece como la agenda de equilibrio única para una combinación diferente de los parámetros; además, los equilibrios múltiples y asimétricos emergen en un área limitada del espacio de los parámetros. Estos resultados contrastan con la literatura existente, en la que NE puede surgir como una institución de negociación de la industria en equilibrio.
Ethics and practice in science communication
Authors: Wilkinson Clare
Published: November 2018

It can be argued that ethical considerations in science communication are a significantly overlooked area although these considerations are implicit in many ongoing academic debates within the field, and within the practical implications of work which is being both constructed and shared within the discipline. Priest, Goodwin and Dahlstrom's [2018] edited collection, ‘Ethics and Practice in Science Communication’, is therefore a significant step forwards in allowing for contemporary reflection on the ethical considerations currently influencing the field. In shining a light on some of the ethical questions currently concerning the field of science communication, this enjoyable and detailed selection of chapters draws together a number of key examples and authors, to begin to consider such ethical quandaries, as well as identifying spaces, which are primed for further ethical exploration in the future.