bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depletion of Urban Green Space and Its Adverse Effect: A Case of Kumasi, the Former Garden City of West- Africa
Authors: Essel Bernard
Published: September 2017

Incorporating greenery has been a vital aspect of city planning. Landscape planning has been a vital aspect of city planning since the 19th Century. Since then, landscape planning has become a social necessity. Assessing the impact of the decline in urban green space is very important. Hence, using Kumasi as a case study largely fit due to the decline of the city’s urban green space. Based on this the study assessed the Landcover change between 2000 to 2010 and projected the Landcover/land use for 2020. It also analyzed the temperature recordings from 2000 to 2016. The result revealed that the city has lost 19.59 km2 and 33.39 km2 of forest and agriculture lands respectively. It was also projected that it will further decline to 0.7 km2 and 8.2 km2 respectively. Among the various Landcover classes, agriculture lands were the most delicate land use which suffers massive decline in acreage. Moreover, the adverse effect of the decline in green spaces has been evident in high temperatures, unattractive environment, and atmospheric pollution. In the last decade (2000-2010), the city’s temperature increased by 0.2oC but has dropped in the past six years (2010-2016). Nevertheless, it doesn’t suggest that the impact of the heat waves has reduced due to the reduction in temperature. Conversely, the impact has increased due to the absence of tree cover. Ultimately, Kumasi’s landscape has depleted and has lost a touch of vegetation, hence appropriate measure needs to be put in place.
The role of intraoperative optical coherence tomography in pediatric hyphema: a case report
Authors: Coppola Michele , Cicinelli Maria Vittoria , Rabiolo Alessandro , Querques Giuseppe , Bandello Francesco
Published: September 2017

Purpose:

Intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) is a valuable tool during vitreoretinal surgery, helping the decision-making process. It is particularly useful in pediatric cases to evaluate the macular anatomy intraoperatively, avoiding further potentially dangerous surgery in children. The aim of this report is to describe the role of integrated iOCT in the management of traumatic hyphema in a pediatric patient.

Case report:

A 5-year-old girl was referred to our department with a history of recent domestic trauma in her right eye. Massive bleeding in the anterior chamber without visualization of the posterior segment was evident. Surgery was planned for the next day under general anesthesia. A 25-G irrigation cannula and 25-G vitrectome were inserted at the limbus into the anterior chamber for removal of the anterior chamber clot. Careful inspection of the posterior pole and retinal periphery to exclude pathologic findings was carried out. A real-time OCT integrated system was used to assess the macular anatomy and the corneal state. The postoperative course was uneventful and full visual recovery was achieved.

Conclusions:

The objective confirmation of macular integrity by means of iOCT after anterior chamber clearing had great prognostic value, excluding the need for surgical revision with a second general anesthesia in this young patient.
Detection of total hip arthroplasties at airport security checkpoints – how do updated security measures affect patients?
Authors: Issa Kimona , Pierce Todd P. , Gwam Chukwuweieke , Festa Anthony , Scillia Anthony J. , Mont Michael A.
Published: September 2017

Introduction:

There have been historical reports on the experiences of patients with total hip arthroplasty (THA) passing through standard metal detectors at airports. The purpose of this study was to analyse those who had recently passed through airport security and the incidence of: (i) triggering of the alarm; (ii) extra security searches; and (iii) perceived inconvenience.

Methods:

A questionnaire was given to 125 patients with a THA during a follow-up appointment. Those who had passed through airport security after January 2014 met inclusion criteria. A survey was administered that addressed the number of encounters with airport security, frequency of metal detector activation, additional screening procedures utilised, whether security officials required prosthesis documentation, and perceived inconvenience.

Results:

51 patients met inclusion criteria. 10 patients (20%) reported triggered security scanners. 4 of the 10 patients stated they had surgical hardware elsewhere in the body. 13 of the 51 patients (25%) believed that having their THA increased the inconvenience of traveling. This is different from the historical cohort with standard metal detectors which patients reported a greater incidence of alarm triggering (n = 120 of 143; p = 0.0001) and perceived inconvenience (n = 99 of 143; p = 0.0001).

Discussions:

The percentage of patients who have THA triggering security alarms has decreased. Furthermore, the number of patients who feel that their prosthesis caused traveling inconvenience has decreased. We feel that this decrease in alarms triggered and improved perceptions about inconvenience are related to the increased usage of new technology.
The posterior acetabular wall (PAW): an aid to acetabular orientation at primary THA
Authors: Williams Huw L.M. , Bartlett Gavin E. , Norton Mark R. , Middleton Rory G.
Published: September 2017

Introduction:

Incorrect acetabular component positioning during total hip arthroplasty (THA) may lead to dislocation, impingement, wear and revision. Surgeons commonly use the transverse acetabular ligament (TAL) as a landmark for acetabular component orientation. The posterior acetabular wall (PAW) is a structure easily viewed on plain radiography and its position can help guide acetabular component position. In this study, we examine the efficacy of preoperative radiographs in predicting cup position relative to the PAW.

Methods:

Prospective data was recorded on radiographic findings of the posterior wall (prominent, normal, deficient) on a consecutive series of 200 primary THAs utilising a standardised posterior approach. The final cup position relative to the wall was recorded (prominent, flush, deep). Cup inclination and version were then assessed by postoperative radiography and any instances of dislocation recorded.

Results:

There were 117 females and 83 males with a mean age of 66.5 years. 154 were recorded as having a normal PAW on radiographs, 152 had the cup positioned in line with the TAL and flush to the PAW. 29 had a deficient PAW and 27 of these had a cup positioned prominently with 17 having a prominent PAW and of these 16 a deep cup position. Postoperative radiographs showed a mean cup version of 20.8° and inclination of 44.7° using this method. There were 21 outliers (10.5%) with no dislocations at a minimum 12-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

The TAL is a continuation of the posterior labrum. As such, the posterior wall is a useful adjunct to and surrogate landmark for the TAL. It has the added advantage that it is visible on radiographs and so aids surgical planning with respect to cup positioning.
Vascularised and Modified Lower-Leg Rotationplasty for the Treatment of Severe Infection and Bone Loss of the Proximal Femur: A Case Report
Authors: Fischer Sebastian , Hirche Christoph , Heppert Volkmar G. , Grützner Paul A. , Kneser Ulrich , Kremer Thomas
Published: September 2017

Case description

We report a reconstructive case in a paraplegic patient, who suffers from a severe proximal femur infection. Aiming at the preservation of the capacity to remain in a seated position to operate a wheelchair, lower leg rotationplasty was considered suitable for reconstruction. Due to severe infection and subclinical femoral artery stenosis, rotationplasty was supercharged by the inferior epigastric artery. Furthermore, extensor tendons of the foot were attached to the acetabulum to facilitate stability of the neo-hip joint.

Results

Follow-up examination 1 year after surgery revealed no complications and a satisfied patient.

Conclusions

Especially in paraplegic patients, lower leg rotationplasty is a possible treatment option for severe femoral infection. Supercharging provides well-vascularised tissue to the former infection site and improves wound healing.
Cortactin and phosphorylated cortactin tyr421 and tyr466 expression in supraglottic laryngeal carcinomas and lymph node metastases
Authors: Marioni Gino , Lionello Marco , Marchese-Ragona Rosario , Fasanaro Elena , Valentini Elisa , Zanoletti Elisabetta , Stritoni Paola , Ramacciotti Giulia , Guzzardo Vincenza , Giacomelli Luciano , Ralli Giovanni , Ottaviano Giancarlo , Blandamura Stella
Published: September 2017

Background:

The most important adverse prognostic factor for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is the presence of cervical lymph node metastases. The supraglottic area of the larynx is richly supplied with lymphatics, and 25%-75% of supraglottic carcinomas metastasize in neck lymph nodes. Cortactin is a multidomain protein related to actin cytoskeleton regulation, podosome and lamellipodia formation, integrin signaling, axon guidance and extracellular matrix degradation. Cortactin is involved in metastasis formation because of its role in cell mobility. The present study focused mainly on the role of cortactin and phosphorylated cortactin (residues tyr421 and tyr466) expression and subcellular localization in primary supraglottic LSCCs and their cervical lymph node metastases.

Methods:

The immunohistochemical expression of cortactin, p-Y466-cortactin and p-Y421-cortactin was assessed in 38 primary supraglottic LSCCs and 10 lymph node metastases. The statistical approach included bootstrapping analysis.

Results:

Despite a significantly higher expression of cortactin in carcinoma cells than in adjacent normal laryngeal mucosa, no associations emerged between prognosis and the expression of cortactin or its isoforms in supraglottic LSCC. Statistical analysis found cortactin expression higher in less-differentiated LSCCs (p = 0.03). A significant direct correlation was found between cortactin and p-Y466-cortactin levels (p = 0.031), and between p-Y466-cortactin and p-Y421-cortactin levels (p = 0.001).

Conclusions:

Cortactin expression in carcinoma cells and its known involvement in the EGFR pathway suggest a role for this protein as a target for LSCC therapy. Further prospective studies are needed to investigate the potential of cortactin, p-Y466-cortactin and p-Y421-cortactin expression as markers of response to treatment (particularly EGFR-directed agents) in LSCC.
Comparison of 2 plating techniques for lateral clavicle fractures, using a new standardized biomechanical testing setup
Authors: Suter Cyrill , Majewski Martin , Nowakowski Andrej M.
Published: September 2017

Background:

Conservative treatment of lateral clavicle fractures (Neer type II) often ends with unsatisfactory results for patients. Operative treatment is thus gaining acceptance. A retrospective study found success using a double plate technique for these injuries. For the current study, a standardized testing setup was developed to compare the mechanical properties of single versus double plate technique for lateral clavicle fractures.

Methods:

Six synthetic bones were tested for each technique. Neer type IIB fractures were created using computer-aided design (CAD). Fatigue testing was carried out with a cantilever bending test. Parameters measured were cycles undergone, failure load and stiffness at the point of failure.

Results:

The standardized testing setup was able to provide reproducible failures. The double plate technique lasted about 16,000 more cycles and withstood an additional 22.4 N on average.

Conclusions:

The new modified standardized testing setup produced reproducible fixation failures for both clavicle fracture fixation techniques. The double plate technique seems to be mechanically superior to the single plate technique.
A randomized, single-blinded cross-over trial of ischemic preconditioning in Raynaud's phenomenon
Authors: Neferu Ramona , Vanderhoek Louise , Hewitt Sara , Nevskaya Tatiana , Pope Janet E.
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) is protective against future ischemia, with brief cycles of ischemia and reperfusion leading to the release of circulating endogenous compounds from ischemic cells. IPC may increase vasodilatory substances and improve Raynaud's phenomenon (RP). We hypothesized that IPC would be more effective than sham in RP treatment. Sample size required 18 participants to detect 5 fewer RP attacks per week.

Methods

This was a randomized single-blinded cross-over trial. The IPC intervention of inflating a standard blood pressure cuff on the upper arm (200 mmHg) and sham intervention (60 mmHg) were performed 3 times per week for 2 weeks, with a 2-week washout period between IPC and sham interventions. Cuff inflation was performed 4 times for 2.5 minutes, with 2.5 minutes between cuff inflation. Participants completed a daily diary on RP disease activity.

Results

Eighteen participants were enrolled (17 with secondary RP and 1 with primary RP); mean age 60.8 (SD 9.4) years, 89% female; and mean number of RP attacks/2 weeks in screen was 16.9 (SD 11.3). With IPC versus sham, results were not significant including an increase of 0.5 RP episodes/week (SD: 10.0; p = 0.84), decrease of 55.6 minutes per week (SD 516.4; p = 0.66), and a decrease in average severity of 0.4 points (on a scale of 0 to 10) (SD 12.9; p = 0.88). Secondary outcomes were also not significant.

Conclusions

No significant differences in RP disease activity were found between IPC and sham. This could be due to lack of effect of IPC on RP, too few treatments, or sham having a partial effect.
Ulnar artery vasculopathy: a common but nonspecific feature of systemic sclerosis
Authors: Kim Tae-Jong , Song Soon-Young , Ahn Hee Chang , Sung Yoon-Kyoung , Bae Sang-Cheol , Jun Jae-Bum
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by microvascular abnormalities and fibrosis. Several studies have reported that large vessel disease is also common in SSc. The aim of this case series was to investigate whether ulnar artery involvement in patients with SSc is a disease-specific phenomenon, as compared to other connective tissue diseases (CTD).

Methods

A total of 28 patients, including 7 with SSc and 12 with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), underwent brachial arteriography due to severe Raynaud's phenomenon and/or digital ulcerations and were enrolled in the study. They were divided into two groups: an SSc/SSc-overlap group and a non-SSc group. The collection of the clinical parameters was conducted to investigate the associations between clinical factors and the ulnar artery vasculopathy.

Results

The SSc/SSc-overlap group (n = 10) consisted of 7 patients with SSc and 3 with features overlapping SSc. In the non-SSc group (n = 18), 12 cases of SLE, 2 of mixed connective tissue disease, 1 of dermatomyositis + SLE, 1 of rheumatoid arthritis, 1 of Sjogren's syndrome, and 1 case of skin vasculitis, were included. The relative frequencies of ulnar artery involvement were not significantly different between the SSc/SSc-overlap and non-SSc groups, respectively (n = 6, 60% vs. n = 9, 50%, p = 0.611).

Conclusions

Although ulnar artery involvement was frequently detected in patients with SSc/SSc-overlap, it was also a common finding in other CTDs; therefore, it is not specific to SSc or SSc-overlap diseases.
Cooperation between in-hospital psychological support and pastoral care providers: obstacles and opportunities for a modern approach
Authors: Proserpio Tullio , Ferrari Andrea , Veneroni Laura , Arice Carmine , Massimino Maura , Clerici Carlo Alfredo
Published: September 2017

The meaning that patients with cancer attribute to life influences their expectations and their attitudes to the disease and its treatment. Over the centuries, religion has commonly been the answer encoded by the social setting when it came to matters of life and death. The present article analyzes the historical grounds for forms of cooperation between the scientific disciplines that focus on mental health and the approach of religion, centered on the Italian situation. Such cooperation was hard to imagine in the past, but the situation has changed considerably and cooperation is not only possible but extremely desirable. Acknowledgment of their spiritual needs helps patients to battle with their disease. The care of patients should include catering for their spiritual needs by ensuring the constant presence of a chaplain on hospital wards.
Revealing School Counselors’ Perspectives on Using Physical Activity and Consulting with Coaches
Authors: Hayden Laura , Silva Meghan Ray , Gould Kaitlin
Published: September 2017

This study reveals school counselors’ perspectives on using physical activity and a consultative process with coaches to provide school-based support for youth. Emerging from this exploration are ways that school-based physical activity might be used to help students develop life skills and to remove barriers to systemic integration of socioemotional development through physical activity into the school system. Practical implications focus on system-based change and collaborative opportunities using the ASCA National Model.
Liberdades de expressão e de informação em face da igualdade e dignidade humana: o caso Siegfried Ellwanger | Freedoms of speech and of information facing the of human equality and dignity: The case of Siegfried Ellwanger |
Authors: Pompeu Gina Marcilio , Coelho Rosa Julia Plá
Published: September 2017

Resumo: Este artigo versa sobre os aspectos mais relevantes da regulação do direito fundamental de expressão e de informação e de sua colisão com outros direitos, no plano jurídico internacional e brasileiro. O estudo compila julgados dos Tribunais Internacionais e outros órgãos responsáveis pelo monitoramento de tratados de Direitos Humanos, com o escopo de apontar formas de solução para os conflitos de bens hoje existentes. Igualmente, discute a previsão e o tratamento dado à tais direitos no ordenamento constitucional brasileiro. Finalmente, analisa um hard case julgado pelo Supremo Tribunal Federal - caso Siegfried Ellwanger -, no qual a colisão entre os direitos protegidos se evidenciou, apontando a solução para o choque entre o direito de livre expressão e a dignidade humana.

Palavras-chaves: Colisão de direitos fundamentais. Direitos humanos. Liberdade de expressão. Liberdade de informação. Igualdade. Dignidade humana.

Abstract: This article deals with the most relevant aspects of the fundamental right of speech and of information and its collision with other rights, in the international and Brazilian juridical spheres. The study carried out in its context compiles rulings of the international tribunals and other bodies responsible for the monitoring of human rights treaties, with the purpose of pointing out ways of solving the conflicts of goods that exist today. It also discusses the prediction and treatment of such rights in the Brazilian constitutional order. Finally, it analyzes a hard case judged by the Supreme Federal Court (STF) (Siegfried Ellwanger’s case), in which the collision between the rights protected was evident, pointing out the solution to the clash between the right of free expression and human dignity.

Keywords: Collision between fundamental rights. Equality. Freedom of expression. Freedom of information. Human dignity. Human Rights.
Negociação coletiva de trabalho como direito fundamental | Collective labor negotiation a fundamental right
Authors: Stürmer Gilberto
Published: September 2017

Resumo: O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar a negociação coletiva de trabalho como um direito fundamental. Este artigo parte da analise conceitual do conflitos coletivos de trabalho, seguido pelo estudo da negociação coletiva de trabalho como direito fundamental, com fundamento na Constituição da República Federativa do Brasil de 1988, nas convenções da Organização Internacional do Trabalho ratificadas pelo Brasil sobre a matéria e na legislação nacional sobre o tema, com a recentemente aprovada Lei nº 13.467, de 13 de julho de 2017 que, com a vacatio legis, entrará em vigor 120 dias após a sua publicação. Os novos artigos 611-A e 611-B da Consolidação das Leis do Trabalho propõem força de lei para a negociação coletiva de trabalho, afastando as hipóteses que fazem parte do rol dos direitos fundamentais sociais trabalhistas previstos no artigo 7º da Constituição Federal e que não podem ser objeto de negociação.

Palavras-chave: conflitos coletivos de trabalho. Negociação coletiva de trabalho. Direitos sociais. Direitos fundamentais. Reforma trabalhista.

Abstract: [This article aims to analyze collective bargaining as a fundamental right. This article is based on the conceptual analysis of collective labor conflicts, followed by the study of collective bargaining as a fundamental right, based on the Constitution of the Federative Republic of Brazil of 1988, the International Labor Organization conventions ratified by Brazil on the subject and In the national legislation on the subject, with the recently approved Law no. 13467 of July 13, 2017 which, with the vacatio legis, will come into force 120 days after its publication. The new Articles 611-A and 611-B of the Consolidation of Labor Laws propose a force of law for the collective bargaining of labor, removing the assumptions that form part of the list of fundamental social labor rights provided for in article 7 of the Federal Constitution and which do not Can be traded.

Keywords: Collective labour negotiation. Fundamental rights. Labor reform. Social rights.
Análise da estrutura produtiva e do consumo de papéis tissue no Brasil
Authors: Da Costa Lucas Ayres , Bacha Carlos José Caetano
Published: September 2017

Este artigo analisa a estrutura produtiva do segmento produtor de papéis tissue no Brasil

(em especial, a sua concentração), destacando a evolução da produção e do consumo desses

papéis no país. Para tanto, consideram-se dados de 1962 a 2015, dando atenção especial

aos anos a partir de 1980. Partiu-se do paradigma estrutura-conduta-desempenho para

ressaltar que aspectos daquele segmento estão sendo analisados, a saber: a sua estrutura

de produção e as suas condições de demanda. A partir de dados coletados das associações

que representam o segmento em análise e do Euromonitor, indicadores de concentração da

produção (como o CR4, CR8 e HHI) foram calculados, bem como foram estimadas equações

de demanda. Entre as conclusões do artigo, ressaltam-se: (1) no período de 1962 a 2015, a

produção brasileira de papéis tissue cresceu à taxa geométrica anual de 7,48%, frente ao

crescimento de 5,71% a.a. da produção total de papéis. Consequentemente, a importância

dos papéis tissue na produção total de papéis no Brasil passou de 4,2%, em 1962, para

10,8% em 2015; (2) devido a suas características de grande volume e baixo peso, o comércio

exterior dos papéis tissue é pequeno, garantindo poder de mercado para as empresas aqui

instaladas na fixação de preços; (3) há concentração regional na produção de papéis tissue,

mas que tem reduzido ao longo do tempo; (4) a demanda desse produto é inelástica a preço

e elástica a renda. As elasticidades preço e renda estimadas para o período de 1980 a 2015

foram de -0,076 e 1,671, respectivamente, mostrando que apesar de ser um produto de

luxo, a demanda de papéis tissue é pouco sensível a variações de preços.

Palavras-chave: Demanda. Equações de demanda. Papéis tissue. Produção.
Um estudo sobre clientes indesejados em empresas de pequeno porte
Authors: Toda Favio Akiyoshi
Published: September 2017

Clientes Indesejados fazem parte da rotina de muitas empresas e, infelizmente, afetam

não apenas os processos existentes das firmas, mas prejudicam também a motivação dos

funcionários e, por vezes, geram incômodos em outros clientes. Este estudo exploratório

investigou os tipos de clientes indesejados em negócios de pequeno porte, em academias

de ginástica, bares, pet shops e salões de beleza, junto aos funcionários de atendimento e

de venda que estavam na “linha de frente” com os clientes. A compreensão desta realidade

contribui para repensar algumas ações que venham a proporcionar maior satisfação dos

funcionários, buscando treiná-los para lidar com tais dificuldades.

Palavras-chave: Clientes indesejados. Demarketing. Pequenas Empresas.
The Relationships between Companies and Bank System: An Analysis of Italian Context
Authors: Giacosa Elisa , Mazzoleni Alberto
Published: September 2017

The purpose of our research is to propose to model which could suggest to Italian small and medium companies the best appropriate funding resources to their economic and financial situation. The framework of this paper is represented by Giacosa and Mazzoleni (2016), in which a model classifies the companies into six groups according to different elements, such as attitude to repay financial debts, company’s growth, and profitability. The sample is composed of 39.400 Italian companies. In particular, companies could be divided in these categories: i) star companies; ii) companies at the beginning of decline; and iii) companies in crisis.It emerged that, in a medium-term vision, it’s necessary to change the management behavior and to try to reach economic fundamentals expected by the bank system, while in the short-term vision the companies have to learn how to use a non-bank financial instruments.
Molecular diagnostics of periodontitis
Authors: Korona-Głowniak Izabela , Siwiec Radosław , Berger Marcin , Malm Anna , Szymańska Jolanta
Published: September 2017

The microorganisms that form dental plaque are the main cause of periodontitis. Their identification and the understanding of the complex relationships and interactions that involve these microorganisms, environmental factors and the host’s health status enable improvement in diagnostics and targeted therapy in patients with periodontitis. To this end, molecular diagnostics techniques (both techniques based on the polymerase chain reaction and those involving nucleic acid analysis via hybridization) come increasingly into use. On the basis of a literature review, the following methods are presented: polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR), 16S rRNA-encoding gene sequencing, checkerboard and reverse-capture checkerboard hybridization, microarrays, denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (TGGE), as well as terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (TRFLP) and next generation sequencing (NGS). The advantages and drawbacks of each method in the examination of periopathogens are indicated. The techniques listed above allow fast detection of even small quantities of pathogen present in diagnostic material and prove particularly useful to detect microorganisms that are difficult or impossible to grow in a laboratory.
The role of metallothionein in oncogenesis and cancer treatment
Authors: Bizoń Anna , Jędryczko Kinga , Milnerowicz Halina
Published: September 2017

Metallothionein is cysteine-rich low molecular mass protein. The involvement of MT in many physiological and pathophysiological processes such as apoptosis, proliferation, angiogenesis, and the detoxification of heavy metals suggested participation of this protein in carcinogenesis and tumor therapy.Depending on the type of tissue and classification of carcinoma various it was observed relation between MT expression and tumor type, stage, grade, poor prognosis and body resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. MT in tumor cell plays important role in defense mechanism against the effect of radiation by inhibiting the processes that lead to the apoptosis. A number of studies have shown an increased expression of MT in various human tumors of larynx, pancreas, kidney, uterus and breast, whereas lower MT expression was detected in liver tumors. Variable MT expression was detected in case of thyroid, prostate, lung, stomach and central nervous system tumors.Also MT plays crucial role in the cytostatics treatment. MT can bind cis-platinum compounds and removes them from the cells, which may lead to multidrug resistance. However, the same functions of MT protect against the negative effects of chemotherapeutic treatment. It is especially important in case of heart cells.Analysis of MT expression in tumor cells may be useful in choosing method of treatment. It is difficult to determine whether increased expression of MT is only a inducing factor of the development of the carcinogenesis, its malignances and multidrug resistance, or it is a factor inhibiting the induction and development of cancer.
Mitochondria in brain hypoxia
Authors: Lenart Jacek
Published: September 2017

Neurons vary widely in shape, size, type of neurotransmitters and number of synapses. Their common characteristic is a very high sensitivity to changes in oxygen concentration. The consequence of hypoxia is to launch a series of biochemical reactions called the ischemic cascade. The term is a bit misleading, because it suggests that there is a succession of events, in a linear fashion. In fact, the ischemic cascade involves very complex processes that take place simultaneously and interact with each other. The key role in neuronal responses to hypoxia is played by changes related to mitochondria, which occur immediately after hypoxia, at the beginning of the ischemic cascade. Disturbances in the mitochondrial functions are recognized as an essential element not only in acute but also in chronic hypoxia, as well as neurodegenerative diseases.
Ibudilast: a non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitor in brain disorders
Authors: Schwenkgrub Joanna , Zaremba Małgorzata , Mirowska-Guzel Dagmara , Kurkowska-Jastrzębska Iwona
Published: September 2017

Ibudilast (IBD) is a non-selective (3, 4, 10, 11) phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor, used mainly as a bronchodilator for the treatment of bronchial asthma. PDE play a central role in cellular function (e.g. differentiation, synaptic plasticity and inflammatory response) by metabolizing cyclic nucleotides. The results from preclinical and clinical studies indicate that IBD has a broader range of action through suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α), toll-like receptor 4 blockade (TLR-4), inhibition of a macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), up-regulation the anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10), and promotion of neurotrophic factors (GDNF, NGF, NT-4). Recent data indicate that the efficacy of IBD appears to be independent from PDE inhibition activity and rather linked to glial activity attenuation. Additional advantages of IBD, such as crossing the blood–brain barrier, good tolerance and activity by oral administration, makes it a promising therapeutic candidate for treating neuroinflammatory conditions, where the currently available treatment remains unsatisfying due to poor tolerability and/or sub-optimal efficacy. IBD has no direct receptor affinity with exemption of some undefined effect on adenosine receptors that makes the drug devoid of its receptors-mediated adverse effects. Current article provides an overview of the pharmacology of IBD with a focus on preclinical and clinical data supporting its potential neuroprotective benefits for neurological conditions, including multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain, medication overuse headache, stroke, opioid, alcohol and methamphetamine abuse.
Aspects of pericytes and their potential therapeutic use
Authors: Różycka Justyna , Brzóska Edyta , Skirecki Tomasz
Published: September 2017

Pericytes, which are multi-potential stem cells, co-create the walls of the microvessels: capillaries, terminal arterioles and postcapillary venules. These cells are localized under the basement membrane, tightly encircling the endothelium. The most frequently mentioned molecular markers of pericytes include NG2 (neural-glial antigen 2), β-type platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFRβ), smooth muscle α-actin (α-SMA), regulator of G protein signalling 5 (RGS5), the adhesion protein CD146 and nestin. Different functions in physiological processes are assigned to pericytes such as maintaining the integrity and senescence of endothelial cells, transregulation of vascular tone or the potential to differentiate into other cells. Probably they are also involved in pathological processes such as tissues fibrosis. In this review, we focus on the participation of pericytes in the process of blood vessel formation, the regeneration of skeletal muscle tissue and fibrosis. Strong evidence for pericytes’ participation in endothelial homeostasis, as well as in pathological conditions such as fibrosis, reveals a broad potential for the therapeutic use of these cells. Targeted pharmacological modulation of pericytes, leading to blocking signalling pathways responsible for the differentiation of pericytes into myofibroblasts, seems to be a promising strategy for the treatment of fibrosis in the early stages.
Prevalence and factors promoting the occurrence of vitamin D deficiency in the elderly
Authors: Wyskida Magdalena , Wieczorowska-Tobis Katarzyna , Chudek Jerzy
Published: September 2017

Vitamin D deficiency affects a large part of the population of elderly people, especially women, who live in moderate climate countries due to a reduced amount of vitamin D in the diet (small sea fish consumption) and reduced content of 7-dehydrocholesterol, which causes decreased skin synthesis. The lowest seasonal concentration of 25(OH)D3 is usually observed during winter and spring. Sun exposure influences 25(OH)D3 concentration more strongly in men than in women.Sociodemographic factors that increase the risk of vitamin D deficiency in the elderly include poor environmental conditions, low economic status, lower educational level, drug exposure (smoking), reduced physical activity, overall poor health and obesity, which causes reduced skin exposure to sunlight.The use of medications or supplements that contain vitamin D and staying in a nursing home that employ such supplementation are factors that prevent deficiency.Significant prevalence of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract may contribute to cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol malabsorption or impair their liver transformation. In addition, the high incidence of chronic kidney disease in old age reduces processing hydroxylation of vitamin D and the formation of active metabolites.Vitamin D deficiency can not only cause bone mineralization disorders, but also increase incidence of cardiovascular diseases, cancers, type 2 diabetes and depression.The aim of this study was to summarize current knowledge about the risk factors of vitamin D deficiency development in the elderly population.
Diversity of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli rods
Authors: Zalas-Więcek Patrycja , Bogiel Tomasz , Wiśniewski Krzysztof , Gospodarek-Komkowska Eugenia
Published: September 2017

Introduction: The aim of the study was to evaluate genetic relatedness and antimicrobial susceptibility of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli strains isolated from patients hospitalized in the University Hospital in Bydgoszcz (Poland).Material and methods: The study included 33 extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli strains isolated from 31 patients. The chromosomal DNA was extracted from the strains and separated by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by the agar dilution method and carried out according to the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing recommendations.Results: According to the pulsed-field gel electrophoresis results, 32 distinct pulsotypes were revealed. Based on Molecular Analyst Fingerprinting software analysis, the studied isolates were divided into four subgroups: 6 (18.2%) isolates showing similarity greater than 90% (group A); 19 (57.6%) showing 80-90% similarity (group B); 7 (21.2%) showing 70-79% similarity (group C); and one isolate with less than 70% similarity (group D). Among E. coli isolates showing similarity greater than 90%, four antimicrobial patterns were noted. Among the isolates showing 80-90% similarity, 18 antimicrobial patterns were observed. E. coli isolates showing 70-79% similarity presented 6 antimicrobial patterns.Conclusions: Our results show a high degree of genetic diversity of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli isolates. However, based on a similarity of ≥80%, almost 75% of E. coli isolates were clonally related. Although it is difficult to identify definitive transmission events based on the recovery of indistinguishable pulsed-field gel electrophoresis types alone, we speculate that extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli strains may have disseminated throughout the hospital.
Fecal microbiota transplantation – methods of treatment of recurrent Clostridium difficile infections and other diseases
Authors: Juszczuk Klaudia , Grudlewska Katarzyna , Mikucka Agnieszka , Gospodarek-Komkowska Eugenia
Published: September 2017

Clostridium difficile is a serious epidemiological problem and particularly dangerous microorganism causing hospital infections. Currently, the treatment of C. difficile infections is the use of metronidazole or vancomycin. However, in some patients, recurrent infection difficult to treat occurs. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a new method used to treat the recurrent CDI. FMT consists in the infusion of the fecal suspension from a healthy donor into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient with CDI to restore the natural intestinal microflora. FMT is safe and effective treatment of recurrent CDI. FMT is extensively described around the world, but to date only two randomized studies confirming the effectiveness of FMT have been conducted. This method was also applied in the treatment of diseases such as pseudomembranous colitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome. The review describes the procedure for FMT and the current state of knowledge about the effectiveness of FMT in the treatment of recurrent CDI.
Kinetic Profiling of the Hydrolytic Reaction of Benazepril: Metabolic Pathway Simulation
Authors: Hemdan A , Michael Adel M
Published: September 2017

A simple, specific, and rapid kinetic study of benazepril (BNZ) hydrolysis was developed and validated using HPLC. BNZ was degraded using 0.1 N sodium hydroxide at room temperature to produce benazeprilat, which is an active metabolite of BNZ and acts as an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor. Analysis was carried out using an Athena C18 column (4.6 × 250 mm, 5 µm particle size). The mobile phase consists of a mixture of phosphate buffer (pH 4.5) and acetonitrile (53 + 47, v/v) at a flow rate of 1 mL/min. UV detection was accomplished at 242 nm using moexipril as the internal standard. The method was validated according to International Conference on Harmonization guidelines, and the calibration curve was linear over the range 10–100 µg/mL, with acceptable accuracy and precision. Kinetic profiling of the hydrolysis was shown to follow pseudo-first-order kinetics. The method was applied to the assay of BNZ in combined dosage form with no interference from other ingredients. The obtained results were statistically compared with those of the official method, showing no significant difference.
Estratégias de educação ambiental na educação infantil
Authors: Sousa Patrícia Patrício Miranda , Leite Julia Ingrette Tobias , Szulczewski Nívia Alves Sales , Carvalho Aluísio Vasconcelos
Published: September 2017

É notório que a Educação ambiental contribui de forma relevante para mudança de hábitos e posturas das pessoas em relação ao meio ambiente. Assim, com as mudanças ocorridas no sistema educacional nas últimas décadas, percebe-se que a questão voltada para a Educação Ambiental tem ganhado cada vez mais espaço na escola.  Desse modo, este artigo tem como objetivo analisar o processo de ensino e aprendizagem em Educação Ambiental na Educação Infantil. Para tanto, utilizou-se o levantamento bibliográfico como pesquisa, e, por ter um caráter qualitativo permitiu uma compreensão mais ampla do assunto em estudo. O texto mostra diversos questionamentos dos teóricos sobre a importância de se trabalhar esse tema ainda na Educação Infantil afim de que as crianças compreendam desde cedo a respeitar e cuidar do ambiente.
Behavioral Economics at Point of Payment and its Implications in Buenos Aires, Hanoi, and Cape Town
Authors: Baranko Kyle
Published: September 2017

A nation-state’s political structure determines the levels of trust and security individuals have in the economic system as a whole. Cities are hotbeds of commercial activity and convince many individuals to migrate to urban areas in search of obtaining a slice of that economic growth. How these individuals conduct commercial transactions reflect levels of trust and security in a nation-state’s political system. Through analyzing formal and informal commercial transactions at the point of payment, this paper will explore how small merchants and consumers replace gaps in formal regulations and distrust in governance with their own systems of trust and security. Research in Buenos Aires, Hanoi, and Cape Town shows how unique features of each nation-state’s political economy have a significant impact on commercial behavior at point of payment but raise concerns about unequal wealth distribution in cities integrated with the global market economy.
Rethinking Images of Disability through Laura Swanson’s “Anti-Self-Portrait”
Authors: Barnhardt Carly
Published: September 2017

This article aims to explore visual artist Laura Swanson's "anti self-portrait" as a response to the visual rhetorics of popular photography that founding disability studies scholar Rosemarie Garland-Thomson defines in her essay “The Politics of Staring: Visual Rhetorics of Disability in Popular Photography”. In responding to these visual rhetorics in her “anti-self-portrait” called Peggy Lee, Swanson resists a traditional reading of a disabled body and reclaims her identity through self-representation.
Regulation of the glucocorticoid receptor via a BET-dependent enhancer drives antiandrogen resistance in prostate cancer
Authors: Shah Neel , Wang Ping , Wongvipat John , Karthaus Wouter R , Abida Wassim , Armenia Joshua , Rockowitz Shira , Drier Yotam , Bernstein Bradley E , Long Henry W , Freedman Matthew L , Arora Vivek K , Zheng Deyou , Sawyers Charles L
Published: September 2017

In prostate cancer, resistance to the antiandrogen enzalutamide (Enz) can occur through bypass of androgen receptor (AR) blockade by the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). In contrast to fixed genomic alterations, here we show that GR-mediated antiandrogen resistance is adaptive and reversible due to regulation of GR expression by a tissue-specific enhancer. GR expression is silenced in prostate cancer by a combination of AR binding and EZH2-mediated repression at the GR locus, but is restored in advanced prostate cancers upon reversion of both repressive signals. Remarkably, BET bromodomain inhibition resensitizes drug-resistant tumors to Enz by selectively impairing the GR signaling axis via this enhancer. In addition to revealing an underlying molecular mechanism of GR-driven drug resistance, these data suggest that inhibitors of broadly active chromatin-readers could have utility in nuanced clinical contexts of acquired drug resistance with a more favorable therapeutic index.
Variance component testing for identifying differentially expressed genes in RNA-seq data
Authors: Yang Sheng , Shao Fang , Duan Weiwei , Zhao Yang , Chen Feng
Published: September 2017

RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) enables the measurement and comparison of gene expression with isoform-level quantification. Differences in the effect of each isoform may make traditional methods, which aggregate isoforms, ineffective. Here, we introduce a variance component-based test that can jointly test multiple isoforms of one gene to identify differentially expressed (DE) genes, especially those with isoforms that have differential effects. We model isoform-level expression data from RNA-Seq using a negative binomial distribution and consider the baseline abundance of isoforms and their effects as two random terms. Our approach tests the global null hypothesis of no difference in any of the isoforms. The null distribution of the derived score statistic is investigated using empirical and theoretical methods. The results of simulations suggest that the performance of the proposed set test is superior to that of traditional algorithms and almost reaches optimal power when the variance of covariates is large. This method is also applied to analyze real data. Our algorithm, as a supplement to traditional algorithms, is superior at selecting DE genes with sparse or opposite effects for isoforms.
Low Evapotranspiration Enhances the Resilience of Peatland Carbon Stocks to Fire
Authors: Kettridge N. , Lukenbach M. C. , Hokanson K. J. , Hopkinson C. , Devito K. J. , Petrone R. M. , Mendoza C. A. , Waddington J. M.
Published: September 2017

Boreal peatlands may be vulnerable to projected changes in the wildfire regime under future climates. Extreme drying during the sensitive postfire period may exceed peatland ecohydrological resilience, triggering long‐term degradation of these globally significant carbon stocks. Despite these concerns, we show low peatland evapotranspiration at both the plot‐ and landscape‐scale postfire, in water‐limited peatlands dominated by feather moss that are ubiquitous across continental western Canada. Low postfire evapotranspiration enhances the resilience of carbon stocks in such peatlands to wildfire disturbance and reinforces their function as a regional source of water. Near‐surface water repellency may provide an important, previously unexplored, regulator of peatland evapotranspiration that can induce low evapotranspiration in the initial postfire years by restricting the supply of water to the peat surface.
Unique alkyl ketene dimer Pickering‐based dispersions: Preparation and application to paper sizing
Authors: Zhao Qi , Liu Wenxia , Li Guodong , Lucia Lucian A. , Wang Huili , Yu Dehai
Published: September 2017

Herein, particle‐stabilized alkyl ketene dimer (AKD) dispersions were prepared using dodecyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (DTAC)‐modified laponite as the stabilizer, and sodium alginate (SA) as the protective colloid. The modification of laponite particles with DTAC, which was characterized by transmission electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction technique, moderately decreases the negative zeta potential and causes the dehydration of laponite particles. Consequently, the modification of laponite promotes the absorption of laponite particles on AKD droplets/spherical particle surfaces, leading to formation of AKD dispersions with reduced particle size and enhanced uniformity when DTAC‐to‐laponite mass ratio is <1%. Meanwhile, SA significantly increases the stability of the AKD dispersions and provides stable AKD dispersions with smaller particles when SA‐to‐AKD mass ratio is <0.08%. By means of confocal laser scanning microscopy, scanning electron microscope imaging and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS)/EDS mapping, the function of DTAC‐modified laponite particles in stabilization of AKD dispersions was found to include both formation of a particle barrier around AKD particles and an increase in the moving resistance of AKD particles by laponite particles with SA. AKD dispersions at a DTAC‐to‐laponite mass ratio 1.0% and SA‐to‐AKD mass ratio 0.054% provide the smallest droplet size and best sizing performance. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45730.