bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modal Analysis of In-Wheel Motor-Driven Electric Vehicle Based on Bond Graph Theory
Authors: Tan Di , Wang Qiang , Wu Yanshou
Published: July 2017

A half-car vibration model of an electric vehicle driven by rear in-wheel motors was developed using bond graph theory and the modular modeling method. Based on the bond graph model, modal analysis was carried out to study the vibration characteristics of the electric vehicle. To verify the effectiveness of the established model, the results were compared to ones computed on the ground of modal analysis and Newton equations. The comparison shows that the vibration model of the electric vehicle based on bond graph theory not only is able to better compute the natural frequency but also can easily determine the deformation mode, momentum mode, and other isomorphism modes and describe the dynamic characteristics of an electric vehicle driven by in-wheel motors more comprehensively than other modal analysis methods.
Facile Preparation of Biocomposite from Prawn Shell Derived Chitosan and Kaolinite-Rich Locally Available Clay
Authors: Biswas Shanta , Rashid Taslim U. , Mallik Abul K. , Islam Md. Minhajul , Khan M. Nuruzzaman , Haque Papia , Khan Mala , Rahman Mohammed Mizanur
Published: July 2017

A novel composite material was prepared from prawn shell derived chitosan (CHT) and locally available kaolinite-rich modified Bijoypur clay (MC) using a facile technique in which dilute acetic acid was used as a solvent for dissolving chitosan and composite fabrication whereas distilled water was used for preparing the clay dispersion. Bijoypur clay mainly consists of kaolinite clay mineral and it was modified with the dodecyl amine to make it organophilic. Morphology and properties of the composites (different weight ratio of MC and CHT) have been studied and compared with those of pure CHT and MC. Purification and modification of Bijoypur clay were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. The fabrication of CHT-MC composites was confirmed by FTIR analysis. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning colorimetry (DSC) were used to investigate the thermal stability of the composites. It was observed that dispersed clay improves the thermal stability and enhances the hardness of the matrix systematically with the increase of clay loading. In this study, a better insolubility in both acidic and alkaline media of the composites is also observed compared to pure chitosan.
Surface Air Temperature Fluctuations and Lapse Rates on Olivares Gamma Glacier, Rio Olivares Basin, Central Chile, from a Novel Meteorological Sensor Network
Authors: Hanna Edward , Mernild Sebastian H. , Yde Jacob C. , Villiers Simon de
Published: July 2017

Empirically based studies of glacier meteorology, especially for the Southern Hemisphere, are relatively sparse in the literature. Here, we use an innovative network of highly portable, low-cost thermometers to report on high-frequency (1-min time resolution) surface air temperature fluctuations and lapse rates (LR) in a ~800-m elevational range (from 3,675 to 4,492 m a.s.l.) across the glacier Olivares Gamma in the central Andes, Chile. Temperatures were measured during an intense field campaign in late Southern summer, 19–27 March 2015, under varying weather conditions. We found a complex dependence of high-frequency LR on time of day, topography, and wider meteorological conditions, with hourly temperature variations during this week that were probably mainly associated with short- and long-wave radiation changes and not with wind speed/direction changes. Using various pairs of sites within our station network, we also analyze spatial variations in LR. Uniquely in this study, we compare temperatures measured at heights of 1-m and 2-m above the glacier surface for the network of five sites and found that temperatures at these two heights occasionally differed by more than ±4°C during the early afternoons, although the mean temperature difference is much smaller (~0.3°C). An implication of our results is that daily, hourly, or even monthly averaged LR may be insufficient for feeding into accurate melt models of glacier change, with the adoption of subhourly (ideally 1–10-min) resolution LR likely to prove fruitful in developing new innovative high-time-resolution melt modelling. Our results are potentially useful as input LR for local glacier melt models and for improving the understanding of lapse rate fluctuations and glacier response to climate change.
Research on the Characteristics and Mechanism of the Cumulative Release of Antimony from an Antimony Smelting Slag Stacking Area under Rainfall Leaching
Authors: Ren Bozhi , Zhou Yingying , Hursthouse Andrew S. , Deng Renjian
Published: July 2017

We aimed to study the characteristics and the mechanism of the cumulative release of antimony at an antimony smelting slag stacking area in southern China. A series of dynamic and static leaching experiments to simulate the effects of rainfall were carried out. The results showed that the release of antimony from smelting slag increased with a decrease in the solid-liquid ratio, and the maximum accumulated release was found to be 42.13 mg Sb/kg waste and 34.26 mg Sb/kg waste with a solid/liquid ratio of 1 : 20; the maximum amount of antimony was released within 149–420 μm size fraction with 7.09 mg/L of the cumulative leaching. Also, the antimony release was the greatest and most rapid at pH 7.0 with the minimum release found at pH 4.0. With an increase in rainfall duration, the antimony release increased. The influence of variation in rainfall intensity on the release of antimony from smelting slag was small.
Growth of Ultralong Ag Nanowires by Electroless Deposition in Hot Ethylene Glycol for Flexible Transparent Conducting Electrodes
Authors: de Guzman Nathaniel , Balela Mary Donnabelle L.
Published: July 2017

High aspect ratio silver (Ag) nanowires with an average length of 25.4 μm and diameter of 102.8 nm were successfully prepared by electroless deposition in hot ethylene glycol (160°C) for 1 h in the presence of PVP. It was found that both PVP concentration and molecular weight significantly influence the morphology and yield of Ag nanowires in solution. Using PVP MW = 55,000, addition of lower amounts of PVP led to formation of large irregularly shaped Ag particles together with a few rod-like structures. Increasing PVP concentration generally resulted in longer and thinner Ag nanowires. On the other hand, low molecular weight PVP produced spherical Ag particles even at high PVP concentration. Ag nanowire flexible transparent conducting electrodes attained a sheet resistance of about 92.5 Ω/sq at an optical transmittance of about 79.6% without any heat treatment. In addition, no significant change in optical and electrical properties was observed after several cycles of bending and adhesion test.
Anomaly Detection in Smart Metering Infrastructure with the Use of Time Series Analysis
Authors: Andrysiak Tomasz , Saganowski Łukasz , Kiedrowski Piotr
Published: July 2017

The article presents solutions to anomaly detection in network traffic for critical smart metering infrastructure, realized with the use of radio sensory network. The structure of the examined smart meter network and the key security aspects which have influence on the correct performance of an advanced metering infrastructure (possibility of passive and active cyberattacks) are described. An effective and quick anomaly detection method is proposed. At its initial stage, Cook’s distance was used for detection and elimination of outlier observations. So prepared data was used to estimate standard statistical models based on exponential smoothing, that is, Brown’s, Holt’s, and Winters’ models. To estimate possible fluctuations in forecasts of the implemented models, properly parameterized Bollinger Bands was used. Next, statistical relations between the estimated traffic model and its real variability were examined to detect abnormal behavior, which could indicate a cyberattack attempt. An update procedure of standard models in case there were significant real network traffic fluctuations was also proposed. The choice of optimal parameter values of statistical models was realized as forecast error minimization. The results confirmed efficiency of the presented method and accuracy of choice of the proper statistical model for the analyzed time series.
High Sensitivity Troponins Discriminate Different Morphologies of Coronary Artery Plaques Being Assessed by Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography
Authors: Rusnak Jonas , Behnes Michael , Reckord Nadine , Hoffmann Ursula , Natale Michèle , Hoffmann Julia , Weidner Kathrin , Lang Siegfried , Mukherji Agnibh , Kruska Mathieu , Henzler Thomas , Schoenberg Stefan O. , Borggrefe Martin , Bertsch Thomas , Akin Ibrahim
Published: July 2017

Background. This study evaluates the association between high sensitivity troponin I (hsTnI) and T (hsTnT) and the morphology of coronary artery plaques detected by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods. Patients undergoing CCTA were prospectively enrolled. CCTA was indicated by a low to intermediate pretest probability for CAD during routine clinical care. Within 24 hours of CCTA examination, peripheral blood samples were taken to measure hsTnI, hsTnT, and N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). Results. A total of 99 patients were enrolled with 43% without CAD, 9% with noncalcified plaques, 28% with calcified plaques, and 19% with mixed type plaque lesions. Both hsTnI and hsTnT levels were able to discriminate significantly between the groups, especially in the presence of mixed coronary plaques (AUC range: 0.741–0.752; p=0.0001). In multivariate logistic regression models, hsTnT, but not hsTnI, was still significantly associated with mixed coronary plaque morphology (odds ratio = 8.968; 95% CI 1.999–40.241; p=0.004). Conclusions. Both hsTnI and hsTnT are able to discriminate between different coronary artery plaques morphologies, whereas hsTnT was significantly associated with mixed coronary plaques in patients with suspected CAD. This trial is registered with NCT03074253.
A Dynamic Information-Based Parking Guidance for Megacities considering Both Public and Private Parking
Authors: Shin Jong-Ho , Kim Namhun , Jun Hong-bae , Kim Duck Young
Published: July 2017

The constantly increasing number of cars in the megacities is causing severe parking problems. To resolve this problem, many cities adopt parking guidance system as a part of intelligent transportation system (ITS). However, the current parking guidance system stays in its infant stage since the obtainable information is limited. To enhance parking management in the megacity and to provide better parking guidance to drivers, this study introduces an intelligent parking guidance system and proposes a new methodology to operate it. The introduced system considers both public parking and private parking so that it is designed to maximize the use of spatial resources of the city. The proposed methodology is based on the dynamic information related parking in the city and suggests the best parking space to each driver. To do this, two kinds of utility functions which assess parking spaces are developed. Using the proposed methodology, different types of parking management policies are tested through the simulation. According to the experimental test, it is shown that the centrally managed parking guidance can give better results than individually preferred parking guidance. The simulation test proves that both a driver’s benefits and parking management of a city from various points of view can be improved by using the proposed methodology.
Lignocellulosic Micro- and Nanomaterials as Copper Frames for the Evaluation of the Copper(I)-Catalyzed Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition
Authors: Owens Charles W. , Oporto Gloria S. , Söderberg Björn C. G. , Lambson Katherine E.
Published: July 2017

Copper was immobilized onto carboxymethyl cellulose, nanofibrillated cellulose, TEMPO-nanofibrillated cellulose, and lignin. The lignocellulosic frames were used with the aim of providing an effective support for catalyst copper and allowing its further reutilization. Each organic support was successful and effective in the coupling of copper with the exception of lignin. These complexes were used as heterogeneous catalysts to produce 1-benzyl-4-phenyl-1H-[1,2,3]-triazole from the copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) between benzyl azide and phenylacetylene. Each reaction was carried out in water and acetonitrile. Those performed in water were completed in 15 minutes while those done in acetonitrile were allowed to react overnight, reaching completion in less than 20 hours. The yields for Cu-CMC resulted in over 90% for those reactions performed in acetonitrile. All catalysts were easy to recover except Cu-lignin which could not be filtered or extracted from the reaction effluent.
Stimulated Hyposalivary Flow Rates in Healthcare Students in an Interprofessional Awareness Educational Program Curriculum
Authors: Wiener R. Constance , Morgan Susan , Swager Lauren , DeBiase Christina , Lilly Christa L.
Published: July 2017

Purpose. Hyposalivation influences quality of life and medication compliance. However, oral health knowledge (in general) and knowledge about hyposalivation (in particular) are often lacking in nondental healthcare professional’s curricula. Additionally, hyposalivation has not been adequately studied in young adults. The purpose for this study is twofold: to use an interprofessional educational curriculum to increase nondental healthcare students’ knowledge about oral health and salivary testing and determine whether hyposalivation is different between sexes in young adults.Method. First-year medical and pharmacy students (N=178) learned the process of saliva collection and provided samples in an interprofessional program.Results. There were 14.4% of participants with hyposalivation; 72.0% were female. Males had higher flow rates (P=0.005). There failed to be a significant difference between the sexes with frank hyposalivation. There failed to be a significant difference in hyposalivation and medication use/nonuse.Conclusions. Hyposalivation is a biomedical, public health concern. However, in this young population, there was no significant difference between sexes or in medication use/nonuse. Through participation in the program, the students learned about salivary flow rates and the need for collaboration among professionals to prevent negative impacts of hyposalivation and oral health.
Fatal Systemic Vasoconstriction in a Case of Metastatic Small-Intestinal NET
Authors: Stenzel Jochen , Noe Sebastian , Holzapfel Konstantin , Erlmeier Franziska , Eyer Florian
Published: July 2017

An increased release of serotonin secreted by ileal NETs is thought to be the major factor causing the carcinoid syndrome. However, in acutely arising carcinoid crisis also other vasoactive factors may lead to hazardous fluctuations in blood pressure and bronchial constriction. In rare cases, systemic vasoconstriction can be observed, probably caused by catecholamines or similar acting substances. Here, we report a fatal case of fulminant systemic vasoconstriction possibly caused by catecholamines in a patient with metastasized ileal NET. The vasospasm was detected by CT-angiography, and hemodynamic monitoring revealed a high systemic vascular resistance. Epinephrine, norepinephrine, and chromogranin A levels in plasma were elevated as was the urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA). The cause of death was heart failure due to severe circulatory insufficiency. The progression of the tumor disease was confirmed by autopsy.
Exposure-Response Analyses of Ramucirumab from Two Randomized, Phase III Trials of Second-line Treatment for Advanced Gastric or Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
Authors: Tabernero Josep , Ohtsu Atsushi , Muro Kei , Van Cutsem Eric , Oh Sang Cheul , Bodoky György , Shimada Yasuhiro , Hironaka Shuichi , Ajani Jaffer A. , Tomasek Jiri , Safran Howard , Chandrawansa Kumari , Hsu Yanzhi , Heathman Michael , Khan Azhar , Ni Lan , Melemed Allen S. , Gao Ling , Ferry David , Fuchs Charles S.
Published: July 2017

Ramucirumab is an IgG1 monoclonal antibody specific for the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2. Ramucirumab, 8 mg/kg every 2 weeks, administered as monotherapy (REGARD) or in combination with paclitaxel (RAINBOW), was safe and effective in patients with previously treated advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. We evaluated exposure–efficacy and exposure–safety relationships of ramucirumab from two randomized, placebo-controlled phase III trials. Sparse pharmacokinetic samples were collected, and a population pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted to predict ramucirumab minimum trough concentration at steady state (Cmin,ss). Kaplan–Meier methods and Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the ramucirumab exposure (Cmin,ss)–efficacy relationship to overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate exposure–safety relationships. Analyses included 321 ramucirumab + paclitaxel and 335 placebo + paclitaxel patients from RAINBOW and 72 ramucirumab and 35 placebo patients from REGARD. Exposure–efficacy analysis showed ramucirumab Cmin,ss was a significant predictor of OS and PFS in both trials. Higher ramucirumab exposure was associated with longer OS and PFS. In RAINBOW, grade ≥3 hypertension, leukopenia, and neutropenia, but not febrile neutropenia, significantly correlated with Cmin,ss, with increased exposure leading to increased incidence. Exploratory exposure–response analyses suggest a positive relationship between efficacy and ramucirumab exposure with manageable toxicities at exposures generated from a dose of 8 mg/kg ramucirumab given every 2 weeks for patients with advanced gastric/GEJ cancer. These findings suggest an opportunity to further optimize benefit versus risk profiles of ramucirumab treatment in patients with gastric/GEJ cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(10); 2215–22. ©2017 AACR.
A Common Ancestral Asn242Ser Mutation in TMEM67 Identified in Multiple Iranian Families with Joubert Syndrome
Authors: Dehghani MohammadReza , Mojarad Majid , Ghayoor Karimiani Ehsan , Vahidi Mehrjardi Mohammad Yahya , Sahebalzamani Afsaneh , Ashrafzadeh Farah , Beiraghi Toosi Mehran , Eslahi Atiyeh , Ahangari Najmeh , Yassini Seyed Mojtaba , Hassanbeigi Afsaneh , Rasti Azam , Kalantar Seyed Mehdi , Maroofian Reza
Published: July 2017

Background: Joubert syndrome (JS) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of rare neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by peculiar midbrain-hindbrain malformation, known as the “molar tooth” sign. JS can manifest a broad range of signs and symptoms. The most common features of JS are hypotonia, ataxia, developmental delay/intellectual disability, abnormal eye movements, and neonatal breathing abnormalities. To date, 29 genes have been shown to cause JS. Methods: We employed whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping in a group of Iranian families with JS and Sanger sequencing of a known mutation associated with JS located in a single homozygous regions shared by affected members of the families. Results: Homozygosity mapping uncovered a shared ∼2.2-Mb run of homozygosity on chromosome 8q21.3-q22.1 encompassing the known JS-causing TMEM67 gene. Sanger sequencing of a known mutation (NM_153704.5: c.725A>G; p.Asn242Ser) in TMEM67 identified from studying another Iranian family using whole-exome sequencing confirmed the presence of the homozygous mutation in 22 affected members of 12 nuclear families. “Molar tooth” sign of brain magnetic resonance imaging, moderate-to-severe neurodevelopmental delay, and abnormal eye movements were the most common features of affected individuals. In addition, liver disease, seizure, behavioural abnormalities, failure to thrive, and kidney disease were observed variably in some of the patients. Conclusion: We propose that Asn242Ser is a founder mutation in the Iranian population, which might explain a significant proportion of JS cases from eastern Iran. Therefore, screening for this variant should be considered for genetic testing in Iranian patients with JS. In addition, this finding is important for developing population-specific genetic testing in Iran.
Treatment of COPD Exacerbation in Switzerland: Results and Recommendations of the European COPD Audit
Authors: Buess Michael , Schilter Daniel , Schneider Tino , Maurer Marc , Borer Heinz , Thurnheer Robert , Köhler Erich , Junker Lilian , Jahn Kathleen , Grob Michael , Rüdiger Jochen , Geiser Thomas , Helfenstein Erich , Solèr Markus , Fiechter René , Sigrist Thomas , Brun Patrick , Barandun Jürg , Koltai Eva , López-Campos José Luis , Hartl Sylvia , Roberts Michael , Schumann Desiree M. , Tamm Michael , Stolz Daiana
Published: July 2017

Background: The European COPD Audit initiated by the European Respiratory Society (ERS) evaluated the management of hospital admissions due to exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in several European countries. Data on the treatment of severe acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPDs) in Switzerland are scarce. Objectives: In light of the GOLD 2010 guidelines, this work aims to examine the quality of care for AECOPD and to provide specific recommendations for the management of severe AECOPD in Switzerland. Methods: A total of 295 patients requiring hospital admission to 19 Swiss hospitals due to exacerbation of COPD during a predefined 60 days in 2011 were included in the study. We compared the Swiss data to the official GOLD 2010 recommendations and to the results of the other European countries. Results: Approximately 43% of the Swiss patients with severe AECOPD were current smokers at hospital admission, compared to 33% of the patients in other European countries (p < 0.001). In Switzerland and in Europe, spirometry data were not available for most patients at hospital admission (65 and 60%, respectively; p = 0.08). In comparison to other European countries, antibiotics were prescribed 14% less often in Switzerland (p < 0.001). Only 79% of the patients in the Swiss cohort received treatment with a short-acting bronchodilator at admission. Conclusions: Considering the overall high standard of health care in Switzerland, in light of the GOLD 2010 guidelines we are able to make 7 recommendations to improve and standardize the management of severe AECOPD for patients treated in Switzerland.
Assessing Capacity in the Elderly: Comparing the MoCA with a Novel Computerized Battery of Executive Function
Authors: Brenkel Megan , Shulman Kenneth , Hazan Elias , Herrmann Nathan , Owen Adrian M.
Published: July 2017

Background/Aims: Clinicians are increasingly being asked to provide their opinion on the decision-making capacity of older adults, while validated and widely available tools are lacking. We sought to identify an online cognitive screening tool for assessing mental capacity through the measurement of executive function. Methods: A mixed elderly sample of 45 individuals, aged 65 years and older, were screened with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the modified Cambridge Brain Sciences Battery. Results: Two computerized tests from the Cambridge Brain Sciences Battery were shown to provide information over and above that obtained with a standard cognitive screening tool, correctly sorting the majority of individuals with borderline MoCA scores. Conclusions: The brief computerized battery should be used in conjunction with standard tests such as the MoCA in order to differentiate cognitively intact from cognitively impaired older adults.
Unilateral Multifocal Choroidal Melanoma
Authors: Mustafi Debarshi , Damato Bertil , Berry Jesse L.
Published: July 2017

We report a case of multifocal choroidal melanoma in the same eye, separated in presentation by 20 years. A 57-year-old Caucasian male initially presented with a choroidal melanoma of the right eye that was treated with transpupillary thermotherapy. Due to recurrence, the patient underwent proton beam therapy with subsequent tumor regression. A second small choroidal lesion was noted in the right eye during his surveillance examinations that was closely monitored and demonstrated stable dimensions and features suggestive of a choroidal nevus. Twenty years after his first presentation, the second lesion exhibited accelerated growth with imaging studies indicative of transformation to a distinct choroidal melanoma. The patient underwent a second globe salvage treatment of proton beam therapy. We describe the clinical course, radiographic, and imaging findings of this rare choroidal melanoma.
Childhood-Onset Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency: Clinical, Hormonal, and Radiological Assessment in a Single Center in China
Authors: Yang Hongbo , Zhu Huijuan , Yan Kemin , Pan Hui
Published: July 2017

Background: Although growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is an important issue in pediatric patients, adult GHD (AGHD) is a neglected field of endocrinology in China. The aim of this study is to characterize the clinical, hormonal, and radiological features in childhood-onset AGHD (CO AGHD) in a single center in China and to compare them with counterparts from Japan. Methods: The medical records of 78 Chinese patients with CO AGHD were reviewed and compared with data from the HypoCCS database study from Japan (N = 69). Results: The majority of our patients had pituitary stalk interruption, while hypothalamo-pituitary tumors were the most common cause of CO AGHD in Japan. Chinese patients had a lag of 6 years for diagnosis. The majority of both groups had multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies. Body mass index and lipid profiles were similar between the 2 patient groups. Dyslipidemia and hyperuricemia were the most common metabolic disturbances in Chinese patients. Conclusions: Our findings confirm that there are possible regional differences in the etiology, metabolic characteristics, and hormonal status in CO AGHD patients in different countries in Asia.
The Relationship Between MMP-2 -1306C>T and MMP-9 -1562C>T Polymorphisms and the Risk and Prognosis of T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in a Chinese Population: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Lin Cong-Meng , Zeng Yan-Ling , Xiao Min , Mei Xu-Qiao , Shen Lv-Ying , Guo Meng-Xian , Lin Zhe-Yao , Liu Qi-Fa , Yang Tin
Published: July 2017

Background: T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a malignant hematological disease and is often accompanied by a variety of genetic abnormalities. Hence, our study aims to investigate the relationship between MMP-2 -1306C>T and MMP-9 -1562C>T polymorphisms and the risk and prognosis of T-ALL. Methods: From April 2009 to February 2011, a total of 376 T-ALL patients were chosen as the case group. Meanwhile, 352 healthy people who passed routine health examinations were selected as the control group. A polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay was used to detect the frequency of MMP-2 -1306C>T (rs243865) and MMP-9 -1562C>T (rs3918242) polymorphisms in the study subjects. The serum levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A Kaplan-Meier analysis was employed to analyze the event-free survival (EFS) rates of the T-All patients with different MMP-2 and MMP-9 genotypes. A multivariate COX model was applied to analyze the relationship between MMP-2 and MMP-9 polymorphisms and the prognosis of T-ALL patients. A C-statistic and net reclassification index (NRI) was carried out to evaluate the predictive value of MMP-2 and MMP-9 gene polymorphisms using the Cox model. Results: Compared to the control group, the genotypic frequency of MMP-2 -1306C>T (CT + TT) and MMP-9 -1562C>T (CT + TT) in the case group was significantly higher. The serum level of MMP-9 was markedly elevated in T-ALL patients with the CT + TT genotype compared to patients with the CC genotype. The results of the Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the median EFS was lower in T-ALL patients with the CT + TT genotype of MMP-9 -1562C>T compared to patients with the CC genotype. The results of a multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazard model indicated that the MMP-9 -1562C>T polymorphism was associated with the prognosis of T-ALL patients. Conclusion: These results indicated that MMP-2 -1306C/T and MMP-9 -1562C/T polymorphisms might be associated with an increased risk of T-ALL. The MMP-9 -1562C>T polymorphism may also be related to the prognosis of T-ALL patients.
Inhibition of Single Routes of Intracellular Signaling is Not Sufficient to Neutralize the Biphasic Disturbance of a Retinal Endothelial Cell Barrier Induced by VEGF-A165
Authors: Deissler Heidrun L. , Lang Gerhard K. , Lang Gabriele E.
Published: July 2017

Background/Aims: Hallmark of diabetic macular edema is the enhanced permeability of retinal endothelial cells (REC) induced by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A165), which acts through activating specific receptors. To improve the predictability of inhibitors' potentials to block harmful effects of VEGF-A165, we investigated if its signaling pathways triggered in REC are redundant. Methods: Immortalized bovine REC monolayers were treated with inhibitors specific for various protein kinases in combination with VEGF-A165. Permeability was monitored continuously by measurements of the cell index (CI) to reveal even subtle and transient changes. Expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins was determined as additional indicator of barrier stability. Results: After a sharp but transient CI drop caused by VEGF-A165 early after its addition, further exposure resulted in a continuous CI decline over several days associated with loss of TJ protein claudin-1. Both phases were blocked by inhibition of VEGF receptor 2. Tested inhibitors of intracellular kinases had a limited or no effect, or were efficient only in certain phases of exposure to VEGF-A165, e.g. inhibiting protein kinase C only prevented the early response. High concentrations of some inhibitors even resulted in VEGF-independent barrier destabilization. Conclusions: Specific kinase inhibitors differently affect VEGF-A165-triggered processes in distinct phases of its action. VEGF-A165-initiated signaling is redundant and blocking of key proteins of single pathways is not sufficient to suppress REC barrier breakdown.
Cinnamaldehyde Ameliorates Diet-Induced Obesity in Mice by Inducing Browning of White Adipose Tissue
Authors: Zuo Jiacheng , Zhao Dandan , Yu Na , Fang Xin , Mu Qianqian , Ma Yue , Mo Fangfang , Wu Rui , Ma Rufeng , Wang Lili , Zhu Ruyuan , Liu Haixia , Zhang Dongwei , Gao Sihua
Published: July 2017

Background/Aims: Obesity has become a major health concern with few effective medications. Cinnamaldehyde (CA) has been reported to exhibit anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, whether CA shows anti-obesity activity remains unknown. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the potential anti-obesity effects of CA on mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and to explore the possible mechanisms involved. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice fed an HFD for 12 weeks were supplemented with CA (40 mg/kg/day) via gavage for an additional 8 weeks. Mice fed a standard diet were used as normal controls. Results: The results revealed that CA treatment decreased body weight, fat mass, food intake, and serum lipid, free fatty acid and leptin levels. CA administration also improved insulin sensitivity in HFD-induced obese mice. Additionally, CA inhibited the hypertrophy of adipose tissue and induced browning of white adipose tissue. Uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) was expressed in white adipose tissue after the oral administration of CA. Furthermore, CA enhanced the expression of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), PR domain-containing 16 (PRDM16) and PPARγ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) proteins in both brown and white adipose tissues. Conclusions: The results suggest that CA exhibits therapeutic potency against obesity by inducing the browning of white adipose tissue in HFD-fed mice.
Development and methodology for the estimation of bisaprolol in pharmaceuticals
Authors: Logoyda L. S.
Published: July 2017

Introduction. The number of drugs introduced into the pharmaceutical market is increasing every year. These drugs may be either new entities or partial structural modification of the existing one. The objective of any analytical measurement is to obtain consistent, reliable and accurate data. Thin layer chromatography, or TLC, is a method for analyzing mixtures by separating the compounds in the mixture. TLC can be used to help determine the number of components in a mixture, the identity of compounds, and the purity of a compound.Aim: Analysis of bisoprolol is described in Pharmacopeia but aim of our researches was to improve to more simple, selective, more accurate, precise, reliable, less expensive methods by TLC of bisoprolol in pharmaceuticals and for using this methods for analysis of their metabolites in next step of researches.  Materials and Methods: The present study is assessed system solvents of bisoprolol for thin layer chromatography.Results and Discussion:  Method of identification of bisoprolol in medicines by TLC has been developed. Established that the most optimal Rf observed using mobile phases: ammonia (25%)-propanol (30: 70). The detection limits of bisoprolol in this system is 0.4 mcg. We explored the validation characteristics - specificity and suitability of the chromatographic system that met, the eligibility criteria established by the SPU.Conclusion: We have been developed chromatographic method of identification of bisoprolol in pharmaceuticals. The proposed method is economical, simple and applicable to the analysis of pharmaceutical dosage forms.
Дослідження протигерпетичної активності похідних амінопропанолу-2.
Authors: Voloshchuk O. M. , Korotkiy Y. V. , Rybalko S. L. , Shirobokov V. P.
Published: July 2017

Introduction. Chemotherapy and chemoprophylaxis are some of the main and often the only possible ways to effective control of viral infections. Therefore, the study of antiviral properties of new substances with the known chemical structure is one of the main ways to create new antiviral agents.The aim of the study – to research the antiherpes activity of new aminopropanol-2 derivatives against the herpes simplex virus (HSV) antigenic type 1, strain VC.Research Methods. Antiherpes activity was determined in 8 aminopropanol-2 derivatives: norbornyl containing substance (compound No. 51), substance with cyclic substituents in alkoxi group (compound No. 48), substances with alicyclic substituents in alkoxi group (compounds No. 46, 47, 49, 50, 52 and 53). Evaluation of antiherpes activity of the studied compounds was performed in vitro on cell culture VNK (growing culture of hamster kidney). Ability to reduce of virus infectious titer and chemotherapeutic index (HTI) of the studied compounds was determined.Results and Discussion. It is established that the compound No. 53 inhibits HSV-I reproduction in 2 lg ID50 at a concentration of 1.56 µg/ml. HTI of compound No. 53 is equal to 64, which describes it as an effective inhibitor of HSV-I reproduction. Some antiherpes action in compounds No. 46, 47 and 51 was identified also, their HTI were 8, 4 and 4 respectively. Substances No. 48, 49, 50 and 52 do not show  the antiherpes action.Conclusions. Among all tested aminopropanol-2 derivatives the compound No. 53 with clear antiherpes properties was determined. Compound No. 53 belongs to the substances with alicyclic substituents in alkoxi group and has such chemical formula: 1-(2-methyl-3-butinox)-3-(2.2.6.6-tetramethyl piperidine)-2-propanol hydrochloride. Compound No. 53 as alicyclic substituent in alkoxy group contains 2-methyl-3-butene, and amine moiety of this substance contains the radical 2.2.6.6 – tetramethylpiperidine. The obtained results will be useful in establishing the natural relationships "structure-activity", also it can be used to create active compounds with certain characteristics.
Вміст сапонінів у кореневищах з коренями та листках первоцвіту весняного
Authors: Marchyshyn S. M. , Shostak L. G. , Nakonechna S. S. , Yaroshenko T. Ya.
Published: July 2017

Introduction. Primrose or primula (Primula L.) is a genus of Primulaceae family plants, which includes about 500 species, distributed throughout the globe. 67 species (according to some authors – 80) grow in the CIS countries, in Ukraine – nine of them; the most common is Primula veris.Primula veris L. is a medicinal, vitamin, nutritional, honeyed, dyeing and decorative plant. Its chemical composition is insufficiently studied despite the widespread usage of primula in medical practice. There is no information about research of saponins contents in leaves and underground organs of Primula veris of Ukrainian flora in the available sources of scientific literature.The aim of the study – to determine the content of saponins in leaves and rhizomes with roots of Primula veris.Research methods. Water and spirituous-water extracts of leaves and rhizomes with roots of Primula veris were studied for saponins content. The aqueous extract of primula was used for tests on foam formation and some sedimentary reactions. The determination of chemical nature of saponins was also done. Quantitative content of saponins was determined by spectrophotometric method on a spectrophotometer Lambda 25 UV at a wave length 381 nm with following conversion to aescin.Results and discussion. The emergence of stable foam and positive reactions with 10 % solution of basic lead acetate and 1 % alcoholic solution of cholesterol showed the presence of saponins in the leaves and rhizomes with roots of of the studied plant. It was found out during determining the chemical nature of saponins that the leaves and rhizomes with roots of Primula veris contain triterpene saponins – (1.27 ± 0.02) % and (3.69 ± 0.02) % respectively in conversion to aescin.Conclusion. It was experimentally proved that the leaves and rhizomes with roots of Primula veris contain triterpene saponins. For the first time it was defined quantitative content of saponins in leaves and underground organs of Primula veris from Ternopil region. The content of saponins in leaves was 1.27 %, in rhizomes with roots – 3.69 % in conversion to escin.
Експериментальна оцінка впливу нарізного введення мелатоніну, цитиколіну, корвітину та тіотриазоліну на мікроциркуляцію в судинах циліарного тіла кролів після контузії ока за даними лазерної доплерівської флоуметрії
Authors: Komnatska K. M. , Khodakivska O. V. , Chereshniuk I. L. , Khodakivskyi O. A.
Published: July 2017

Introduction. Neuroretinoprotective activity of melatonin is the basis for further comprehensive assessment of possible mechanisms of its protective action in order to reasonable implementation of the drug in ophthalmic practice as a remedy with neuroretinoprotective action for the treatment of traumatic lesions of eye.The aim of the study – to learn Laser Doppler Flowmetry method to investigate the effect of melatonin and reference drugs (citicoline, corvitin and thiotriazoline) on completeness of recovery of blood flow in the vessels of the ciliary body in dynamic of its contusion as a possible mechanism of their neuroretinoprotective action.Research Methods. Model of eye contusion is a blank shot into the center of the cornea closely with carbon dioxide under pressure. Therapy is separate intravenous administration of drugs (melatonin 10 mg / kg, corvitin 10 mg / kg citicoline 250 mg / kg and thiotriazoline 100 mg / kg) twice a day during 7 days, the first application 1 h after injury. Effect of drugs on microcirculation in the eye ciliary body in this condition was studied with using Laser Doppler Flowmetry module BIOPAC (USA).Results and Discussion. Therapeutic application of all test substances amortized rapid deterioration of blood supply to the eye. Melatonin is the leader among the selected drugs for the ability to improve the circulation in the ciliary body of eye during the first week after its contusion.Conclusion. Restoration of eye perfusion caused by contusion on the background of application of melatonin, citicoline, corvitin and thiotriazoline is one of the leading mechanisms of neuroretinoprotective action of these drugs.
Багатогранна постать Івана Яковича Горбачевського
Authors: Pavlyshyn H. A. , Kozak K. V.
Published: July 2017

Introduction. Ivan Horbachevsky, native of the Ternopil region, is an outstanding figure in the Ukrainian history. Despite the fact that he had spent almost all his life in the foreign land, he was the faithful son of his Motherland. Ivan Horbachevsky was the first ethnic Ukrainian, who was appointed the health minister in the government of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The name of Ivan Horbachevsky was being forgotten for a long time inequitably, even though his figure has high historical importance not only forGalicia, but also for wholeUkraine. It should be underlined, that his name has the same significance for Ukrainians as the famous names of Ivan Franko and Solomia Krushelnytska. Taking into account Horbachevsky’s contibutions to our country, in 1992 Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine took the decision to give the name of this great scientist to the Ternopil Medical Institute. And in this year I. HorbachevskyTernopilStateMedicalUniversity celebrates its 60th anniversary.The aim of the study – to highlight scientific achievements and outline the main milestones in the life of such outstanding person, as Ivan Horbachevsky. This will be the invaluable gift for both present and future generations.Conclusions. The life of Ivan Horbachevsky could be an example for all of us, for all contemporaries, and his scientific contributions will be alive forever and will be continued in the numerous works of his followers. No doubt that every scientist and student of the institution should not only know and remember him, but also followed working and citizenship position of our great compatriot Ivan Horbachevsky.
2015 Revised Utstein-Style Recommended Guidelines for Uniform Reporting of Data From Drowning-Related Resuscitation: An ILCOR Advisory Statement
Authors: Idris Ahamed H. , Bierens Joost J.L.M. , Perkins Gavin D. , Wenzel Volker , Nadkarni Vinay , Morley Peter , Warner David S. , Topjian Alexis , Venema Allart M. , Branche Christine M. , Szpilman David , Morizot-Leite Luiz , Nitta Masahiko , Løfgren Bo , Webber Jonathon , Gräsner Jan-Thorsten , Beerman Stephen B. , Youn Chun Song , Jost Ulrich , Quan Linda , Dezfulian Cameron , Handley Anthony J. , Hazinski Mary Fran
Published: July 2017

Background—

Utstein-style guidelines use an established consensus process, endorsed by the international resuscitation community, to facilitate and structure resuscitation research and publication. The first “Guidelines for Uniform Reporting of Data From Drowning” were published over a decade ago. During the intervening years, resuscitation science has advanced considerably, thus making revision of the guidelines timely. In particular, measurement of cardiopulmonary resuscitation elements and neurological outcomes reporting have advanced substantially. The purpose of this report is to provide updated guidelines for reporting data from studies of resuscitation from drowning.

Methods—

An international group with scientific expertise in the fields of drowning research, resuscitation research, emergency medical services, public health, and development of guidelines met in Potsdam, Germany, to determine the data that should be reported in scientific articles on the subject of resuscitation from drowning. At the Utstein-style meeting, participants discussed data elements in detail, defined the data, determined data priority, and decided how data should be reported, including scoring methods and category details.

Results—

The template for reporting data from drowning research was revised extensively, with new emphasis on measurement of quality of resuscitation, neurological outcomes, and deletion of data that have proved to be less relevant or difficult to capture.

Conclusions—

The report describes the consensus process, rationale for selecting data elements to be reported, definitions and priority of data, and scoring methods. These guidelines are intended to improve the clarity of scientific communication and the comparability of scientific investigations.
Control of Pathological Cardiac Hypertrophy by Transcriptional Corepressor IRF2BP2 (Interferon Regulatory Factor-2 Binding Protein 2)
Authors: Fang Jing , Li Tianyu , Zhu Xuehai , Deng Ke-Qiong , Ji Yan-Xiao , Fang Chun , Zhang Xiao-Jing , Guo Jun-Hong , Zhang Peng , Li Hongliang , Wei Xiang
Published: July 2017

The transcription factor NFAT1 (nuclear factor of activated T-cells 1), with the aid of transcriptional coactivators, has been recognized for its necessity and sufficiency to drive pathological cardiac hypertrophy. However, how the transcriptional activity of NFAT1 in terms of cardiac hypertrophy is controlled at the transcriptional level has not been well defined. Herein, we showed that a cardiac-enriched protein IRF2BP2 (interferon regulatory factor-2 binding protein 2) was further upregulated in both human and mouse hypertrophied myocardium and negatively regulated cardiomyocyte hypertrophic response in vitro. By generating cardiomyocyte-specific
Irf2bp2
knockout and
Irf2bp2
-transgenic mouse strains, our in vivo experiments showed that, whereas IRF2BP2 loss-of-function exacerbated both aortic banding- and angiotensin II infusion-induced cardiac hypertrophic response, IRF2BP2 overexpression exerted a strong protective effect against these maladaptive processes. Particularly, IRF2BP2 directly interacted with the C-terminal transactivation domain of NFAT1 by competing with myocyte enhancer factor-2C and disturbing their transcriptional synergism, thereby impeding NFAT1-transactivated hypertrophic transcriptome. As a result, the devastating effect of
Irf2bp2
deficiency on cardiac hypertrophy was largely rescued by NFAT1 blockage. Our study, thus, defined IRF2BP2 as a novel negative regulator in controlling pathological cardiac hypertrophy at the transcriptional level.