bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Rate Transient Analysis to Evaluate Hydraulically Fractured Well Performance in A Mature Gas Field
Authors: Al-Lawati Basayir , Blasingame Thomas
Published: October 2018

In this work, we assess the historical well performance for a mature gas condensate field in Oman (the field name is designated as "BHA," where "BHA" is a pseudonym). The reservoirs of the BHA field are complex and have low permeabilities which results in substantial uncertainty in reserves estimation, which in turn has resulted in regular modifications of the booked volumes. To confine these booked volumes, we employed two techniques: "time-rate" analysis (or Decline Curve Analysis (DCA)) and "time-rate-pressure" analysis (or Rate Transient Analysis (RTA)).

To perform the decline curve analysis work we used Microsoft Excel to match data using both the Modified Hyperbolic (MH) and Power-Law Exponential (PLE) DCA relations. We also used the Kappa Engineering product "Topaze" to conduct the Rate Transient Analysis (or RTA) by first estimating reservoir parameters and then performing a simulation history match of both the rate and pressure data. The DCA and RTA models were both used to construct a 30-year forecast and 30-year EUR values were obtained using these forecasts. Finally, we created parametric correlations using estimated reservoir properties from RTA and the matched parameters obtained using the MH and PLE relations for DCA.

The core purpose of this work was to provide assurance in the booked reserves volumes for these low permeability reservoirs and to obtain correlations of reserves and reservoir property estimates for fields like the BHA field.
THE EFFECT OF COWS GENOTYPE ON THEIR PRODUCTIVITY AND MILK QUALITY
Authors: Tyulkin Sergey V.
Published: October 2018

As studies by Russian and foreign scientists show, the breed and the cows genotype affects on their productivity and milk quality. In connection with this, the purpose of this research was to study the milk productivity and milk quality of the Tatarstan type Kholmogory cows with different complex genotypes on the milk protein genes, namely, alpha S1-casein, beta-casein, kappa-casein, beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin. The genotypes on the milk protein genes were determined by DNA analysis methods. Determination of quantitative and qualitative indicators of milk was carried out by control milking and on a milk analyzer «LAKTAN1–4». Better raw milk, that is, with the greatest amount of nutrients, such as milk fat and protein, was milk from cows with complex genotypes of milk proteins ВВ/АВ/АВ/АВ/АА, ВВ/АВ/АВ/АВ/АВ, ВВ/АВ/АВ/АВ/ВВ. In practical terms, it is possible to get more quality dairy products from such raw materials.
The Environmental Impact of Cattle Access to Watercourses: A Review
Authors: O'Callaghan Paul , Kelly‐Quinn Mary , Jennings Eleanor , Antunes Patricia , O'Sullivan Matthew , Fenton Owen , hUallacháin Daire Ó.
Published: October 2018

The degradation of freshwater resources and loss of freshwater biodiversity by anthropogenic activities, including agriculture, are of major global concern. Together with diffuse pollutants, point sources, such as where cattle have direct access to riparian margins and watercourses, can potentially present significant environmental challenges. These can include impacts on stream morphology, increased sedimentation, nutrient additions, microbial contamination, and impacts on aquatic biota. Mitigation measures aimed at reducing these frequently include reducing the amount of time cattle spend in riparian margins and watercourses. This is often accomplished through the provision of an alternative water supply and grazing management, or even cattle exclusion measures. Although a number of studies refer to potential negative impacts, there has been little attempt to review previous research on this topic. The key aim of this paper is to collate and review these disparate studies, as well as those relating to the effectiveness of mitigation measures. Although it is difficult to draw generalizations from studies due to the inherent variability between and within catchments, evidence pertaining to impacts in relation to sedimentation, pathogens, and riparian margin vegetation were strong. Conclusions in relation to impacts on stream morphology and nutrient parameters were less clear, whereas studies on responses of macroinvertebrate communities were particularly variable, with differences due to cattle access difficult to separate from catchment scale effects. A greater understanding of the impact of cattle access on watercourses under varying conditions will help inform policymakers on the cost effectiveness of existing management criteria and will help in revising existing measures.

Core Ideas

It has been hypothesized that direct cattle access to waterways can result in impacts to streams.

Little effort has been made to collate information on the efficacy of mitigation measures.

Divergent results on the effect of cattle access on various parameters highlight the need for further research.
Short‐Term Dynamics of Soil Physical Properties as Affected by Compaction and Tillage in a Silt Loam Soil
Authors: Hu Wei , Tabley Frank , Beare Mike , Tregurtha Craig , Gillespie Richard , Qiu Weiwen , Gosden Peg
Published: October 2018

Core Ideas

Compaction deteriorated soil physical quality especially for the top 0.1‐m layer and tilled soils.

Tillage temporarily improved soil physical quality in compacted soils.

No‐till for establishing autumn forage crops can be used to mitigate the compaction effect.

Short‐term variation in hydraulic properties may be significant for soil and crop modeling.

This study investigated short‐term dynamics of soil physical properties as affected by tillage and compaction in a silt loam soil. After establishment of an autumn‐sown forage oat (Avena sativa L.) crop with either NT or intensive tillage (IT), five degrees of livestock compaction (0–261 kPa) were applied in winter using a “cow treading implement.” A barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) crop was then sown following shallow cultivation of the soil in spring. After 2 yr of sheep‐grazed pasture, tillage significantly improved the soil physical quality in the 0‐ to 0.2‐m layer. Compaction significantly deteriorated soil physical quality, by, for example, decreasing macroporosity, available water content, and saturated hydraulic conductivity. Compared with IT and the top 0.1‐m soil layer, soil physical properties in NT and the subsurface 0.1‐ to 0.2‐m layer were more resistant to compaction. Irrespective of tillage, the topsoil (0–0.1 m) was more susceptible to physical degradation than the subsurface soil (0.1–0.2 m). Compaction and tillage effects on soil physical quality declined with time because of natural recovery and the shallow tillage used to establish the subsequent barley crop. This study demonstrated that using NT to establish an autumn‐sown forage crop can mitigate the adverse impacts of livestock treading on soil physical quality during subsequent grazing. Although tillage and compaction effects were short lived, soil physical properties were significantly different between every two adjacent measurement times. This highlights the need to consider the short‐term changes in soil hydraulic properties when modeling soil–crop systems.
Vedolizumab in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases: whom and how?
Authors: Golovenko A. O. , Golovenko O. V.
Published: October 2018

The article is devoted to the use of vedolizumab, an α4β7 integrin antagonist, in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease). It presents the results of clinical trials of the drug and the experience of using vedolizumab in actual clinical practice. The latest available information about the drug’s safety profile is provided. The authors considered the practical aspects of therapy, such as determining the indications for treatment, tactics in loss of response, the need for a combination of vedolizumab with immunosuppressors, and the use of the drug in specific categories of patients.
Multifuncionalidade da Agricultura e Serviços ambientais: aproximações e distanciamentos como referenciais de políticas públicas
Authors: Chiodi Rafael Eduardo , Moruzzi Marques Paulo Eduardo
Published: October 2018

O desenvolvimento sustentável emerge como um referencial de políticas públicas, mas diferentes noções são construídas sob esta orientação. Assim, a multifuncionalidade da agricultura e os serviços ambientais ganham relevância pela importância política que assumiram em nível internacional e nacional. O artigo estabelece uma abordagem relacional para discutir as aproximações e os distanciamentos entre estas noções. Através de uma revisão bibliográfica de âmbito internacional e nacional, conclui-se que há proximidade e até certa inter-relação entre estas noções como referenciais de políticas públicas, uma vez que propõem o reconhecimento e a valorização de externalidades positivas da agricultura e do meio rural. No entanto, apresentam diferentes ênfases, fundadas em representações distintas da realidade e, assim, obtendo legitimidades afastadas.
Processos Participativos na Gestão de Universidades Federais: o caso da Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul
Authors: Peretti Fernanda Mara , Dal Magro Márcia Luíza Pit , Bonamigo Irme Salete , Comerlatto Dunia
Published: October 2018

As mobilizações reivindicatórias que ocorreram no Brasil, a partir de 1980, foram fundamentais para a construção de um gerenciamento mais participativo em diferentes organizações públicas, incluindo as universidades federais. A expansão do ensino superior público, desde os anos 2000, possibilitou a criação de novas universidades, como a UFFS. Este artigo discute a gestão universitária em face das mudanças na administração pública e remete à uma análise dos processos participativos inerentes à criação e gestão da UFFS. O estudo, de cunho qualitativo, utilizou a Proposta Operativa de Minayo. O processo participativo da comunidade local/regional na interação com os movimentos sociais diferenciou o processo de constituição e gestão da UFFS. Quatro Conselhos gestores compõem sua estrutura, na perspectiva de favorecer e ampliar processos participativos de gestão universitária. O Conselho Estratégico Social, de caráter consultivo constitui-se em potência macrorregional para a construção de uma Universidade comprometida com a participação popular, a inclusão social e o desenvolvimento regional. Contudo, “fazer a gestão da UFFS” em estreito diálogo com as comunidades acadêmica e externa por meio de seus conselhos gestores, exige esforços permanentes, a fim de promover a superação da cultura política de participação que se apresenta ainda frágil em seus processos de gestão universitária.
Aprendizagem Interorganizacional em Arranjo Produtivo Local: proposição de esquema conceitual analítico
Authors: Rebelato Mozzato Anelise , Bitencourt Claudia Cristina
Published: October 2018

As relações interorganizacionais ganham espaço na economia mundial, dentre as quais se destacam os arranjos produtivos locais (APLs). Em tais configurações, as relações estabelecidas entre os diferentes agentes tendem resultar em interação e aprendizagem, exigindo melhor compreensão do processo da aprendizagem interorganizacional (AIO), que se torna tema relevante de investigação, sobretudo, por se tratar de um fenômeno complexo, emergente e ainda em formação, principalmente, em APLs. Portanto, este trabalho de pesquisa de natureza argumentativa tem como objetivo buscar melhor compreensão do processo da AIO em contexto de APL, a partir da proposição de um esquema conceitual analítico. A proposição poderá ser útil para diversas configurações que mantêm relações interorganizacionais horizontais, sobretudo APLs, em razão do direcionamento para tal. Acredita-se estar colaborando para com a melhor compreensão e o desenvolvimento da AIO nos mais diferentes APLs existentes, trazendo vantagens principalmente para as micro e pequenas empresas, possibilitando também a intensificação do desenvolvimento socioterritorial, e não apenas com o olhar econômico. Assim, entende-se que as contribuições aqui apresentadas podem permitir avanços, estabelecer novas fronteiras e abrir novas linhas de pesquisas.
A Cooperativa dos Agricultores do Assentamento Itamarati II: mediação entre o Estado e os produtores
Authors: Pires Marco Aurélio Perroni , Hoff Sandino
Published: October 2018

O artigo teve o objetivo de analisar a mediação exercida na produção agrícola e na comercialização de mercadorias pela Cooperativa dos Produtores do Assentamento Itamarati II - Cooperai de Ponta Porã, MS. Os instrumentos utilizados na coleta de dados foram constituídos de entrevistas semiestruturadas com as famílias cooperadas e com pessoas ligadas diretamente às instituições participantes da produção e comercialização dos assentados; de documentos e registros encontrados na Companhia Nacional de Abastecimento (CONAB) de Campo Grande, na Secretaria Municipal de Educação, no escritório do Banco de Alimentos de Ponta Porã, Programa de Aquisição Alimentar (BAP), em órgãos como PRONAF e na Cooperai. Constatou-se que o número de associados da cooperativa é reduzido. Utilizando os programas do governo, a Cooperai fomentou a produtividade e a renda dos membros cobriu apenas a sobrevivência das famílias, conseguida graças à mediação da cooperativa. Os resultados apontaram para reduzido acesso ao financiamento e às tecnologias de produção; para a proteção econômica do governo na aquisição dos gêneros alimentícios, diretamente da agricultura familiar. A positiva função social exercida pela Cooperai esteve dependente das instituições governamentais.
Gestão Municipal e Desenvolvimento Sustentável: panorama dos indicadores de sustentabilidade nos municípios catarinenses
Authors: Réus Iuana , Andion Carolina
Published: October 2018

Atualmente, a conexão entre os dilemas globais de sustentabilidade e as ações locais se coloca como um desafio central. Este estudo explora essa problemática, analisando uma experiência recente de avaliação do grau de sustentabilidade municipal: o Sistema de Indicadores para o Desenvolvimento Municipal Sustentável de Santa Catarina (SIDMS). O artigo examina as estratégias adotadas, destacando os avanços e as dificuldades na criação e implantação do sistema e apresenta uma síntese dos principais resultados, com uma análise panorâmica do grau de sustentabilidade dos municípios catarinenses.  Como principal conclusão, o estudo mostra a fotografia de um estado composto por ilhas de dinamismo e diversas áreas com desenvolvimento precário, nas quais há o risco de consolidação do modelo excludente e concentrador observado em determinadas regiões do Brasil.
Expectativas promissoras: comércio e perspectivas de cooperação bilateral nas relações Brasil–União Soviética (1964-1967)
Authors: Caterina Gianfranco
Published: October 2018

Este artigo busca compreender a dinâmica das relações entre Brasil e União Soviética logo após o golpe civil-militar de 1964. Apesar da retórica anticomunista, das arbitrariedades e perseguições a elementos considerados subversivos e comunistas brasileiros, o regime que se instalou após a tomada de poder em abril de 1964 permanecia interessado na manutenção de boas relações com a superpotência euroasiática. Argumenta-se que o comércio tevepapel relevante nesse período, levando à busca por uma institucionalização das relações interestatais, visando a retomada das conversações acerca de assistência soviética a grandes projetos de infraestrutura no país. Dentro dessa chave de entendimento, a URSS poderia desempenhar um papel relevante na industrialização do Brasil. Em 1967, o Brasil retomava o posto de principal parceiro comercial da URSS na América Latina (excetuando-se Cuba). No entanto, as cifras eram inferiores em comparação às trocas no biênio 1962-63. Este artigo busca evidenciar como esforços de reaproximação foram importantes para moldar ações de cooperação econômica e estratégica posteriores entre os dois países.
Sam Domains in Multiple Diseases
Authors: Vincenzi Marian , Mercurio Flavia Anna , Leone Marilisa
Published: October 2018

Background:

The sterile alpha motif (Sam) domain is a small helical protein module, able to undergo homo- and hetero-oligomerization, as well as polymerization, thus forming different types of protein architectures. A few Sam domains are involved in pathological processes and consequently, they represent valuable targets for the development of new potential therapeutic routes. This study intends to collect state-of-the-art knowledge on the different modes by which Sam domains can favor disease onset and progression.

Methods:

This review was build up by searching throughout the literature, for: a) the structural properties of Sam domains, b) interactions mediated by a Sam module, c) presence of a Sam domain in proteins relevant for a specific disease.

Results:

Sam domains appear crucial in many diseases including cancer, renal disorders, cataracts. Often pathologies are linked to mutations directly positioned in the Sam domains that alter their stability and/or affect interactions that are crucial for proper protein functions. In only a few diseases, the Sam motif plays a kind of "side role" and cooperates to the pathological event by enhancing the action of a different protein domain.

Conclusion:

Considering the many roles of the Sam domain into a significant variety of diseases, more efforts and novel drug discovery campaigns need to be engaged to find out small molecules and/or peptides targeting Sam domains. Such compounds may represent the pillars on which to build novel therapeutic strategies to cure different pathologies.
NADPH Producing Enzymes as Promising Drug Targets for Chagas Disease
Authors: Cordeiro Artur T.
Published: October 2018

Reduced Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (NADPH) is a cofactor
used in different anabolic reactions, such as lipid and nucleic acid synthesis, and for oxidative
stress defense. NADPH is essential for parasite growth and viability. In trypanosomatid parasites,
NADPH is supplied by the oxidative branch of the pentose phosphate pathway and by
enzymes associated with the citric acid cycle. The present article will review recent achievements
that suggest glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and the cytosolic isoform of the malic
enzyme as promising drug targets for the discovery of new drugs against Trypanosoma cruzi
and T. brucei. Topics involving an alternative strategy in accelerating T. cruzi drug-target
validation and the concept of drug-target classification will also be revisited.
Goniothalamin-Related Styryl Lactones: Isolation, Synthesis, Biological Activity and Mode of Action
Authors: Pilli Ronaldo Aloise , de Toledo Ian , Meirelles Matheus Andrade , Grigolo Thiago Augusto
Published: October 2018

:

This review covers the chemistry and biological aspects of goniothalamin-related styryl
lactones isolated from natural sources. This family of secondary metabolites has been reported to display
diverse uses in folk medicine, but only a limited number of these compounds have been throughly
investigated regarding their biological profile. Herein, we cover the goniothalamin-related styryl
lactones having a C6-C3-C4 framework which appeared in the literature for the first time in the period
2000-2017, and the reports on the synthesis, biological activity and mechanism of action which
were published from 2007-2017.
Prevalence, Identification, and Scouting for Familial Hypercholesterolaemia Including Registries
Authors: Florentin Matilda , Kostapanos Michael S. , Elisaf Moses S. , Liberopoulos Evangelos N.
Published: October 2018

Background:

Familial Hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is the most common metabolic genetic disorder,
with around 13 million people worldwide having the disease. However, FH is globally underdiagnosed and undertreated,
while the vast majority of those treated do not achieve treatment goals.

Objective:

This review aims to clarify how to identify patients with FH.

Methods:

We performed a comprehensive search of the literature to identify available data.

Results:

Patients with FH are at high risk for cardiovascular events and death at an early age. Therefore, prompt
detection of individuals with FH is of pivotal importance in order to implement appropriate preventive measures
at a young age. Patient registries are a powerful tool for recording and monitoring a disease and encouraging
clinical practices, subsequently improving outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. National FH registries are
successfully applied in several countries (e.g. Spain, Denmark, UK, USA and the Netherlands). Importantly, in
the last few years, the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) launched a global FH network aiming to collect
data from specialized FH centres from different countries and establish a worldwide, standardised registry of
patients with FH.

Conclusion:

It appears that the establishment and proper function of such registries will improve FH diagnosis,
as well as preventive measures and management of FH patients.
Targeting Membrane Receptors of Ovarian Cancer Cells for Therapy
Authors: Liang Zhiquan , Lu Ziwen , Zhang Yafei , Shang Dongsheng , Li Ruyan , Liu Lanlan , Zhao Zhicong , Zhang Peishan , Lin Qiong , Feng Chunlai , Zhang Yibang , Liu Peng , Tu Zhigang , Liu Hanqing
Published: October 2018

Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide from gynecological malignancies, mainly because there are few early symptoms and the disease is generally diagnosed at an advanced stage. In addition, despite the effectiveness of cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer and the high response rates to chemotherapy, survival has improved little over the last 20 years. The management of patients with ovarian cancer also remains similar despite studies showing striking differences and heterogeneity among different subtypes. It is therefore clear that novel targeted therapeutics are urgently needed to improve clinical outcomes for ovarian cancer. To that end, several membrane receptors associated with pivotal cellular processes and often aberrantly overexpressed in ovarian cancer cells have emerged as potential targets for receptor-mediated therapeutic strategies including specific agents and multifunctional delivery systems based on ligand-receptor binding. This review focuses on the profiles and potentials of such strategies proposed for ovarian cancer treatment and imaging.
Combiphore (Structure and Ligand Based Pharmacophore) - Approach for the Design of GPR40 Modulators in the Management of Diabetes
Authors: Gajjar Krishna A. , Gajjar Anuradha K.
Published: October 2018

Background:

Pharmacophore mapping and molecular docking can be synergistically
integrated to improve the drug design and discovery process. A rational strategy, combiphore
approach, derived from the combined study of Structure and Ligand based pharmacophore has
been described to identify novel GPR40 modulators.

Methods:

DISCOtech module from Discovery studio was used for the generation of the Structure
and Ligand based pharmacophore models which gave hydrophobic aromatic, ring aromatic and
negative ionizable as essential pharmacophoric features. The generated models were validated by
screening active and inactive datasets, GH scoring and ROC curve analysis. The best model was
exposed as a 3D query to screen the hits from databases like GLASS (GPCR-Ligand Association),
GPCR SARfari and Mini-Maybridge. Various filters were applied to retrieve the hit molecules
having good drug-like properties. A known protein structure of hGPR40 (pdb: 4PHU) having
TAK-875 as ligand complex was used to perform the molecular docking studies; using SYBYL-X
1.2 software.

Results and Conclusion:

Clustering both the models gave RMSD of 0.89. Therefore, the present
approach explored the maximum features by combining both ligand and structure based pharmacophore
models. A common structural motif as identified in combiphore for GPR40 modulation
consists of the para-substituted phenyl propionic acid scaffold. Therefore, the combiphore approach,
whereby maximum structural information (from both ligand and biological protein) is explored,
gives maximum insights into the plausible protein-ligand interactions and provides potential
lead candidates as exemplified in this study.
An Initial Demonstration of Polyester Monomer Coordination Properties: Synthesis and Biological Activity of Metal Complexes Derived from a New Nanosized Diol
Authors: Elhusseiny Amel F. , Hussien Hend M. , Hassan Hammed H.A.M.
Published: October 2018

A part of a running research project directed to building coordinated polymers based on the rigid aromatic s-triazine, the researchers reported the synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of four new transition metal complexes derived from the nanosized diol monomer (H2L ligand) as early representatives of its nanosized o-naphthol-based polyester. The reaction of the new nanosized N2O2 donor diimine containing sulfone with zinc (II), copper (II), nickel (II) and cobalt (II) ions offered nonconducting metal complexes. The SEM image showed the diol monomer was organized as well-defined nanosized rod-like morphology. Spectroscopic and magnetic susceptibility studies displayed the tetrahedral geometries for Zn (II), Co (II) and Ni (II) complexes while the Cu (II) complex had square planar geometry. The antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities were in the order [Cu2L2].4H2O > [Zn2L2] > [Ni (HL)2] > [Co2L2] > H2L. Despite the ligand, [Cu2L2].4H2O, [Zn2L2] and [Co2L2] complexes displayed no efficacy against the screened microbes, only the tetrahedral Ni (II) complex exhibited moderate activity. The reporting complexes possessed several notable advantages that render them as promising alternatives for the development of therapeutic agents. Selection of the rigid O-substituted naphthol ring as a source of Odonor ligands is expected to construct high dimensional frameworks and more easily contributing and controlling metallic topology.
The Cancer Hygiene Hypothesis: From Theory to Therapeutic Helminths
Authors: Fernandes Ruben , Alves Helena , Botelho Monica C.
Published: October 2018

Background::

The “Hygiene Hypothesis” was postulated by David Strachan in 1989 to
explain for the rapid 20th century increase in allergic diseases such as asthma. In this hypothesis,
children from developed countries living in ultra-hygienic environments and avoiding exposure to
viruses, bacteria, and parasites, especially helminthes, have an increased risk of atopic disorders.

Materials & Methods::

Research and online content related to cancer hygiene hypothesis is highlighted
and to illustrate key themes. Guidelines for meaningful participation in DOC activities for
people with diabetes, families, health care providers, and industry are provided.

Results::

The lack of worms leads to failure of stimulation of mucosal Th2 responses. These infections
exert their effect through critically altering T-helper (Th)1/Th2 regulation, and it is postulated
that, thus, they protect against atopy and asthma, through the induction of Th1 regulatory response.
It is now also recognized that this “hygiene hypothesis” concept applies to a wider range
of chronic inflammatory diseases than atopy and asthma, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis and
cancer.

Conclusion::

Here we discuss the major implications of these findings for the association between
microorganisms and cancer, and also between some immune pathologies, like autoimmune diseases,
and cancer.
Computerized Tomography (CT) Updates and Challenges in Diagnosis of Bone Metastases During Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zhang Jinguo , Zhai Guanzhong , Yang Bin , Liu Zhenhe
Published: October 2018

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. This cancer is often associated with indolent tumors with little or no lethal potential. Some of the patients with aggressive prostate cancer have increased morbidity and early deaths. A major complication in advanced prostate cancer is bone metastasis that mainly results in pain, pathological fractures, and compression of spinal nerves. These complications in turn cause severe pain radiating to the extremities and possibly sensory as well as motor disturbances. Further, in patients with a high risk of metastases, treatment is limited to palliative therapies. Therefore, accurate methods for the detection of bone metastases are essential. Technical advances such as single-photon emission computed tomography/ computed tomography (SPECT/CT) have emerged after the introduction of bone scans. These advanced methods allow tomographic image acquisition and help in attenuation correction with anatomical co-localization. The use of positron emission tomography/CT (PET/CT) scanners is also on the rise. These PET scanners are mainly utilized with 18F-sodium-fluoride (NaF), in order to visualize the skeleton and possible changes. Moreover, NaF PET/CT is associated with higher tracer uptake, increased target-to-background ratio and has a higher spatial resolution. However, these newer technologies have not been adopted in clinical guidelines due to lack of definite evidence in support of their use in bone metastases cases. The present review article is focused on current perspectives and challenges of computerized tomography (CT) applications in cases of bone metastases during prostate cancer.
In vitro Identification of Spinosin Metabolites in Human Liver Microsomes Using a Simple and Sensitive UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS Method
Authors: Zhang Qiaoyue , Zhang Xia , Liu Yanyan , Wan Changchen , Sun Yupeng , Zhang Lantong
Published: October 2018

Background:

Spinosin is one of the major bioactive constituents among the total flavonoids
in semen ziziphi spinosae, which has sedation and hypnosis actions.

Methods:

A simple and rapid high-resolution ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled
with a quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS) method was developed and
validated for predicting the structures of its spinosin metabolic products. This paper presents the first
research focused on the metabolites of spinosin in human liver microsomes.

Results:

Based on the analytical strategy, 8 spinosin metabolites were detected in human liver microsome
incubation samples, and the metabolic pathways required to generate these metabolites were proposed.
However, no phase II metabolites were found. The cytochrome P450 enzyme is the main metabolic
enzyme involved in drug metabolism, accounting for approximately 75% of the total number of
different metabolic reactions.

Conclusion:

The in vitro metabolism of spinosin was proposed. These results allow us to learn about
spinosin metabolism, leading to a better understanding of drug biotransformation and providing a basis
for clinical applications. Moreover, this study laid the foundation for developing new pharmaceutical
drugs.
Congenital Cytomegalovirus Prevention, Awareness and Policy Recommendations - A Scoping Study
Authors: Midgley Georgia , Smithers-Sheedy Hayley , McIntyre Sarah , Badawi Nadia , Keogh John , Jones Cheryl A.
Published: October 2018

Background:

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is known to cause childhood deafness,
neurodevelopmental disability and death. Simple hygiene precautions are effective in reducing
maternal risk of CMV infection.

Objective:

To review i) awareness of CMV infection and available primary prevention strategies
both in the community and amongst health professionals ii) available cCMV information sources
in the literature, grey literature and published professional guidelines.

Methods:

Scoping study to i) identify literature pertaining to cCMV awareness amongst parents
and health professionals using MedLine and CINAHL databases via EBSCO ii) review one high
income country’s guidelines and recommendations regarding cCMV infection and pregnancy (example
country Australia) iii) grey literature for parental information.

Results:

Worldwide awareness of cCMV and of available prevention strategies amongst women
and health professionals are poor. Findings internationally suggest at least half of maternity care
health professionals do not routinely provide advice to women regarding simple hygiene precautions
that can reduce their risk of infection during pregnancy. Though information resources regarding
cCMV are available, they are frequently not included within general healthy pregnancy
advice and require individuals to search for ‘congenital cytomegalovirus’.

Conclusion:

cCMV is a preventable cause of serious congenital disability and death. Prevention
opportunities are being missed because most women are not aware of cCMV or how to reduce
their risk of infection in pregnancy, in part due to poor health professional awareness. New strategies
to disseminate cCMV information to the community and to support health professionals to
embed cCMV advice within routine pregnancy counselling is required.
Dual Component Tablets for the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Jain Shalinee , Namdev Ankit , Jain Dharmendra
Published: October 2018

Background and Objective: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most
common GIT disorders in which reflux of the GIT contents occurs into the esophagus. The present
study is focused on developing a dual component tablet containing a sustained release floating layer of
Baclofen and delayed release microspheres of Rabeprazole sodium for the effective treatment of Gastroesophageal
Reflux Disease (GERD).

Methods:Dual component tablets have been developed to achieve a controlled delivery of two different
drugs. Microspheres were prepared by the emulsion solvent evaporation method using different ratios
of Eudragit S100 and Rabeprazole sodium (3:1, 6:1, 9:1 and 12:1) and optimized using various parameters.
Baclofen floating tablets were prepared by the wet granulation method by using different polymers
like sodium alginate (S1), pectin (S2) and guar gum (S3) and characterized for their floating properties
and in-vitro drug release study.

Results: The cumulative percentage drug release after 9 hrs was found to be in the range of 46.18 to
65.78% for different microsphere formulations. The result showed that, as the amount of polymer increased,
the particle size and % yield were also increased, and drug release and entrapment efficiency
were decreased. Among all the formulations, M2 was considered as the best because it showed highest
entrapment efficiency. Among baclofen floating tablet formulations, S1 was resulted as optimized formulation
because it sustained the drug release up to 8 hrs and showed 64.82±0.82% drug release.

Conclusion:

From the above optimized formulations bilayer tablets containing floating layer of Baclofen
and Rabeprazole sodium loaded microspheres layer were prepared by single-punch tablet machine
and evaluated for the weight variation, hardness, thickness, diameter, friability, floating time etc.
The results of the study showed that all parameters were within pharmacopoeial limits.
Strategies of Freezing Tolerance in Yeast: Genes’ Rapid Response for Accumulation of Stress Protectants
Authors: Khajavi Maryam Z. , Tripathi Abhishek D. , Khosravi-Darani Kianoush
Published: October 2018

Production of frozen ready-to-bake bakery products has gained significant attention during the past few years. However, the freezing process during the production of frozen bakery products may decrease the quality especially in the case of suppression of the activity of baker yeast. Great improvements in the quality of frozen bakery products may be achieved by increasing the stability of yeast during freezing storage. Many microorganisms have different kinds of mechanisms to suppress environmental, freezing or thawing stresses. In this review paper, reported strategies which are used for rising tolerance of microorganisms, especially yeast, are reviewed. One of the introduced protective procedures is the accumulation of special intra-cellular metabolites by some microorganisms. Two main key metabolites in this regard are trehalose and proline (which act as an osmoprotectant and decrease the melting point of DNA), which are introduced in this review article. Also, cloning strategies for increasing their bioaccumulation are pointed out, and their mechanisms of action are described. Finally, overexpression of SNR84 gene as an another microbial strategy for surviving in harsh environmental conditions is (small nucleolar RNAs) mentioned, which leads to ribosomal pseudouridines (responsible for freezing tolerance and decreasing growth rate of organisms).
Consideraciones sobre aspectos ecológicos y estatus de conservación de Pinguicula jackii subsp. jackii (Lentibulariaceae), especie amenazada del centro-sur de Cuba
Authors: Vasallo Rodríguez Leosveli , Montes Rosalina , Escarré Esteve Antonio , León Cabrera Julio , Bonet Jornet Andreu , Alomá Moreno Omar
Published: October 2018

Antecedentes y Objetivos: El género Pinguicula agrupa plantas con requerimientos ecológicos específicos. Para Cuba se reportan 13 especies, todas endémicas, restringidas a formaciones vegetales sobre arenas cuarcíticas y sistemas montañosos sobre carso, laterita y serpentina. Pinguicula jackii se encuentra en el Macizo Montañoso Guamuhaya, centro-sur de Cuba. Los principales estudios sobre ella se basan en revisiones taxonómicas a través de material de herbario y ensayos genéticos, careciéndose de información sobre aspectos de su ecología. Los objetivos de este trabajo es describir la ecología de P. jackii, actualizar la información sobre su distribución geográfica, estado de conservación, dinámica poblacional, y evaluar la posible incidencia de los usos de los suelos asociados a los farallones donde habita.Métodos: El estudio se realizó de febrero de 2015 a mayo de 2016 en la subcuenca del río Mataguá, provincia Cienfuegos, Cuba. Se determinó la extensión de presencia (13.36 km2), área de ocupación (3.23m2), altura del suelo a la planta, inclinación del sustrato, temperatura, humedad relativa, exposición, tamaño de los parches con hábitat adecuados para la subespecie y su ocupación, y la cobertura con el procesamiento de imágenes fotográficas.Resultados clave: Se confirmó la presencia de Pinguicula jackii en tres subpoblaciones y se reporta una nueva en la localidad de Mundo Nuevo. Todas las subpoblaciones están asociadas a cafetales tradicionales abandonados y/o a cultivos hortícolas. El tipo de uso del suelo influyó en el tamaño de las subpoblaciones y en la ocupación de áreas por Pinguicula jackii.Conclusiones: El cafetal tradicional de sombra es una actividad agrícola que no comprometió la conservación de la especie. Los cultivos hortícolas pudieran estar afectando los tamaños poblacionales debido al laboreo intensivo y manejos como la quema, el desmonte y el uso de productos fitosanitarios. La especie cumple con los criterios establecidos por la UICN para ser considerada en Peligro Crítico.
Estudios etnofarmacológicos de Cecropia obtusifolia (Urticaceae) y su importancia en el tratamiento de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM-2): una mini-revisión
Authors: Cadena-Zamudio Jorge David , Nicasio-Torres María del Pilar , Guerrero-Analco José Antonio , Ibarra-Laclette Enrique
Published: October 2018

Antecedentes y Objetivos: La diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM-2) es una de las enfermedades crónicas recurrentes más comunes, generalmente se trata con medicamentos sintéticos, muchos de los cuales tienen importantes repercusiones en el cuerpo del paciente. Por esta razón, la etnofarmacología se ha vuelto más importante en los últimos años, porque una gran cantidad de recursos de origen vegetal son utilizados en medicina y muestran un efecto positivo en el tratamiento de diferentes enfermedades, incluyendo DM-2. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de esta revisión es destacar cómo los estudios previos se suman a la comprensión y el conocimiento de los efectos biológicos informados en Cecropia obtusifolia, una planta tropical incluida en la Farmacopea Herbolaria de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos (FHEUM), comúnmente usada para tratar DM-2.Métodos: Se realizó una revisión profunda de la literatura sobre C. obtusifolia, centrándose en diversos estudios fitoquímicos, farmacológicos, clínicos y toxicológicos, así como en otros hallazgos relevantes de investigación.Resultados clave: Se reconoce que esta especie es capaz de disminuir los niveles séricos de glucosa, colesterol y triglicéridos, debido a sus propiedades hipoglucémicas e hipolipidémicas reductoras de lípidos, que se han demostrado tanto en modelos experimentales animales como en humanos, atribuyendo estos efectos al ácido clorogénico y la isoorienina. Estos informes previos sugieren que C. obtusifolia es un candidato prometedor para el desarrollo de un fitofarmacéutico que podría usarse en el tratamiento de DM-2.Conclusiones: Brindamos una visión general actualizada y completa de la fitoquímica, los usos tradicionales y las actividades farmacológicas de C. obtusifolia. En cuanto a sus actividades farmacológicas, nos centramos principalmente en el efecto hipoglucémico de esta planta que apoya su uso tradicional en el control de DM-2. Además, el conocimiento actual se evaluó críticamente para proporcionar algunas pruebas y justificaciones y proponer futuras perspectivas de investigación.
Catálogo de los hongos de San Sebastián del Oeste, Jalisco, México
Authors: Rodríguez Alcántar Olivia , Figueroa García Darío , Herrera-Fonseca María de Jesús
Published: October 2018

Antecedentes y Objetivos: En Jalisco, diversos estudios micobióticos se han realizado en diferentes municipios, entre ellos el de San Sebastián del Oeste ubicado en la región Costa-Sur Occidental de esta entidad, y del que se continúa explorando debido a la alta diversidad de especies fúngicas hasta ahora registradas. El objetivo de este trabajo es actualizar el conocimiento sobre la diversidad de los hongos registrados para el área de estudio.Métodos: Se realizaron 15 exploraciones durante el periodo lluvioso de junio a septiembre en los últimos diez años (2007-2017). Adicionalmente, se realizó la revisión de material de la colección micológica del herbario IBUG. El estudio del material se llevó a cabo bajo las técnicas tradicionales micológicas, y usando literatura especializada para su determinación. Resultados: Trescientos once taxones se incluyen en 165 géneros y 66 familias de hongos. Del total, 285 son Basidiomycota y 26 Ascomycota. Se reportan en este trabajo 29 registros nuevos para el área. Entre los géneros de mayor riqueza dentro de los Basidiomycota destacan Amanita (23), Trametes (11), Ganoderma, Lactarius, Pluteus, Scleroderma y Stereum (6), y de Ascomycota, Helvella (5) y Xylaria (4).Conclusiones: Se considera necesario seguir realizando exploraciones micológicas, principalmente en aquellos sitios que no han sido explorados, lo que permitirá conocer un mayor número de especies fúngicas, y hacer un análisis de las posibles especies endémicas o las que están en riesgo, así como documentar su distribución actual en los tipos de vegetación presentes en San Sebastián del Oeste y el occidente de México.
An unusual new record of Baccharis (Asteraceae) from the Peruvian Andes and its relation with the northern limit of the dry puna
Authors: Gonzáles Paúl , Cano Asunción , Müller Jochen
Published: October 2018

Background and Aims: The knowledge of the richness and distribution of the flora in the Peruvian Andes is scarce; about 70 taxonomic novelties have been reported for this area in the last decade, a large part belonging to the Asteraceae. The objective of this paper is to contribute to the knowledge of this flora through a new record of Baccharis acaulis. In addition, the distribution pattern of this species is examined.Methods: As part of floristic inventories in the high Andes of Peru, various field trips were carried out, several plant specimens were collected, among them a previously unreported species, which was identified by consulting some specialists and confirmed using taxonomic keys. Furthermore, predicting species distribution based on ecological niche modeling was made use the machine learning algorithm Maxent with the bioclimatic variables of the WorldClim database.Key results: A species of the genus Baccharis was registered for the first time for the flora of Peru. This species is recognized for its unique habit; it is a rhizomatous herb in which the aboveground part consists of small leaf rosettes surrounding a solitary capitulum. The species was collected in the south of the Peruvian Andes. This record extends the known distribution of the species considerably to the north.Conclusions: This record suggests the need to continue studying the Andean flora, as well as the links of their distribution patterns with the phytogeographical regions.
Actividades de escritura de propuestas en una clase de Química Inorgánica avanzada a nivel pre-doctoral
Authors: Rosado Flores Peter Josue
Published: October 2018

With cutting edge research comes the expectation that funding is needed. Particularly in the sciences, grant funds can cover the cost of instrumentation, conference travel, summer stipends and the like. At the undergraduate level, it is essential to instill into the students the importance of finding and applying to funding opportunities (particularly for those who wish to pursue graduate degrees). While the Georgia College (GC) chemistry program currently does not have a formal “technical writing class”, here are discussed several activities that seek to expose undergraduate students to proposal writing and bettering their technical writing skills.
Estimation of the UAV Route Information for the Visual Navigation Task
Authors: Likhvar D S , Mishenkov M A , Elantsev M O , Arkhipov I O
Published: October 2018

В статье рассматривается способ оценки информативности маршрута беспилотных летательных аппаратов (БПЛА) для задач зрительной навигации. Для получения такой оценки необходимо обработать снимок местности со спутника либо фотографический план местности (ортофотоплан). На первом этапе для заданного изображения применяются фильтры, выделяющие сильно выраженные области. В таких областях находятся опорные точки - точки, принимающие экстремальное значение в их окрестностях. На втором этапе составляется карта плотности опорных точек. Для каждой точки исходного изображения определяется количество найденных опорных точек, находящихся в ее окрестности. На третьем этапе по исходному изображению составляется карта дисперсии яркости, на которой отмечается разность между яркостью выбранной точки и ее окрестностью. На четвертом этапе объединяются данные с карт дисперсии и плотности точек, образуя карту информативности местности. Используя полученную карту информативности, можно составить маршрут, на котором беспилотный летательный аппарат сможет использовать системы визуальной навигации. В заключение представлен пример, демонстрирующий разницу между двумя маршрутами с помощью способа, описанного в статье.