bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Results of a 2-Stage Exchange Protocol for Periprosthetic Joint Infection Following Total Hip Arthroplasty in 164 Hips
Authors: Petis Stephen M. , Abdel Matthew P. , Perry Kevin I. , Mabry Tad M. , Hanssen Arlen D. , Berry Daniel J.
Published: January 2019

Background:

Limited data exist that show the long-term risks of reinfection and mechanical failure with a contemporary 2-stage exchange protocol for periprosthetic joint infection following total hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term reinfection and mechanical failure rates of 2-stage exchange for periprosthetic joint infection after total hip arthroplasty.

Methods:

We identified 164 hips (162 patients) with infection after total hip arthroplasty between 1991 and 2006 treated with a 2-stage exchange protocol with no prior treatment for periprosthetic joint infection. With regard to Musculoskeletal Infection Society diagnostic criteria, at least 1 major criterion or 4 of 6 minor criteria were fulfilled in 129 hips (79%). The cumulative incidence with a competing risk of death was calculated for reinfection, aseptic revisions, and all-cause revisions. The risk factors for reinfection were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression. Harris hip scores were calculated. The mean age at the time of spacer insertion was 68 years, and 35% of the patients were female. Excluding the patients with <2 years of follow-up, the mean follow-up was 12 years (range, 2 to 21 years).

Results:

The cumulative incidence of recurrence of infection was 10% at 1 year, 14% at 5 years, and 15% at 10 and 15 years. Seventeen patients (11%) used chronic antibiotic suppression (>6 months), with 7 (41%) of these having recurrent infection at the time of the latest follow-up. Use of chronic antibiotic suppression was the only predictive factor for reinfection (hazard ratio, 4.5 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.9 to 10.9]; p = 0.001). The cumulative incidence of aseptic femoral and acetabular revisions was 2.6% at 5 years and 3.3% at 10 and 15 years. The cumulative incidence of all-cause revisions was 15% at 5 years and 16% at 10 and 15 years. Dislocation was the most common complication, with 28 dislocations occurring in 20 patients (12%). The mean Harris hip score improved from 52 points prior to spacer insertion to 70 points at 15 years after reimplantation (p < 0.01).

Conclusions:

The rate of recurrence of infection of 15% for up to 15 years after total hip arthroplasty was similar to previous shorter-term reports of 2-stage exchange for periprosthetic joint infection. Surgeons should anticipate mitigating instability after reimplantation. Implant survivorship free of aseptic loosening and clinical outcomes were preserved for the long term. The role of chronic antibiotic suppression in the long-term treatment of periprosthetic joint infection requires further investigation.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Development of an Institutional Opioid Prescriber Education Program and Opioid-Prescribing Guidelines
Authors: Stepan Jeffrey G. , Lovecchio Francis C. , Premkumar Ajay , Kahlenberg Cynthia A. , Albert Todd J. , Baurley James W. , Nwachukwu Benedict U.
Published: January 2019

Background:

Our institution developed a 1-hour mandatory narcotics-prescribing education program as well as postoperative opioid-prescribing guidelines in response to the opioid epidemic. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of this hospital-wide opioid education and subsequent institution of postoperative opioid guidelines on opioid-prescribing practices after ambulatory surgery.

Methods:

This retrospective study was performed at 1 academic orthopaedic hospital. In November 2016, a 1-hour mandatory opioid education program was completed by all hospital prescribers. Postoperative opioid guidelines were then developed and were disseminated in February 2017. All postoperative narcotic prescriptions after ambulatory procedures performed by 3 separate services (hand, sports, and foot and ankle services) were evaluated over 4 months prior to and after the mandatory opioid education and subsequent release of service-specific guidelines.

Results:

Overall, there was a significant decrease in pills and total oral morphine equivalents prescribed after dissemination of guidelines compared with the pre-intervention cohort procedures (p < 0.001) performed by the sports and hand services. With regard to the sports medicine service, the mean difference in pills prescribed was 6.47 pills (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.4 to 7.5 pills) for knee arthroscopy, 5.6 pills (95% CI, 2.5 to 8.7 pills) for shoulder arthroscopy, and 16.3 pills (95% CI, 13.6 to 19.1 pills) for hip arthroscopy. With regard to the hand service, the mean difference in pills prescribed was 13.0 pills (95% CI, 10.2 to 15.8 pills) for level-1 procedures, 12.4 pills (95% CI, 9.9 to 15.0 pills) for carpal tunnel release, and 21.7 pills (95% CI, 18.0 to 25.3 pills) for distal radial fractures. The decrease in pills prescribed in the post-intervention cohort amounts to almost 30,000 fewer opioid pills prescribed per year after these 6 procedures alone. There was no significant change (p > 0.05) in either the number of pills or the oral morphine equivalents prescribed after any of the 3 procedures performed by the foot and ankle service (ankle arthroscopy, bunion surgery, and Achilles tendon repair).

Conclusions:

We developed a prescriber education program and followed up with consensus-based guidelines for postoperative opioid prescriptions. These interventions caused a significant decrease in excessive opioid-prescribing practices after ambulatory orthopaedic surgery at our hospital. We urge initiatives by national orthopaedic organizations to develop and promote education programs and procedure and disease-specific opioid-prescribing guidelines.
Techniques and Considerations for the Operative Treatment of Ankle Fractures in the Elderly
Authors: Konopitski Andrew , Boniello Anthony J. , Shah Mitesh , Katsman Anya , Cavanaugh Garrett , Harding Susan
Published: January 2019

* In managing fragility fractures about the ankle, nonoperative treatment should be considered with the caveat that soft-tissue integrity is of the utmost importance.

* Consultation with medical and nutritional services for the comanagement of elderly patients with a fragility ankle fracture improves outcomes.

* Soft-tissue preservation in the elderly is optimized with the judicious use of a tourniquet.

* In elderly patients, a congruent ankle joint with axial alignment and stability should be emphasized over achieving anatomic articular reduction.

* Less invasive surgical techniques, such as percutaneously placed anterior-to-posterior screws for posterior malleolar fractures and intramedullary fibular fixation, should be considered in the elderly.

* Construct stability in elderly patients is maximized with the use of lateral locking plates, tibia-pro-fibula screws, and bicortical medial malleolar screws.

* The use of external fixation with hydroxyapatite-coated pins should be considered in the treatment algorithm for fragility ankle fractures in elderly patients.
Duloxetine Reduces Pain and Improves Quality of Recovery Following Total Knee Arthroplasty in Centrally Sensitized Patients
Authors: Koh In Jun , Kim Man Soo , Sohn Sueen , Song Kwang Yun , Choi Nam Yong , In Yong
Published: January 2019

Background:

Unexplained postoperative pain is one of the most feared complications of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A persistent noxious peripheral stimulus, such as the pain of chronic knee osteoarthritis, can cause central sensitization in which the central nervous system becomes hyperexcitable, resulting in hypersensitivity to both noxious and non-noxious stimuli. Patients with central sensitization may be more susceptible to unexplained pain after TKA. Duloxetine, a selective serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), can ameliorate the pain associated with central sensitization, and we aimed to determine whether it could reduce postoperative pain and improve quality of recovery after TKA in patients with central sensitization.

Methods:

Patients undergoing TKA were screened for central sensitization preoperatively with use of the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI). Among 464 patients with primary osteoarthritis who were scheduled for primary unilateral TKA, 80 were identified as being centrally sensitized and were included in the study. Forty patients were randomly assigned to the duloxetine group (30 mg 1 day before surgery and for 6 weeks after surgery), and 40 were randomized to the control group (no duloxetine). Pain and quality of recovery were assessed with use of the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), the Short Form-36 (SF-36), the Measure of Intermittent and Constant Osteoarthritis Pain (ICOAP), and the Hamilton Depression Scale. The prevalence of adverse medication effects was also noted.

Results:

The patients in the duloxetine group had better performance across pain metrics during the initial 2 to 12-week postoperative period (p < 0.05). The duloxetine group also had a superior quality of recovery 2 weeks after TKA, as indicated by emotional and physical functioning (all p < 0.05). There was no difference between groups in the prevalence of adverse events.

Conclusions:

A substantial number of patients are centrally sensitized before TKA. Surgeons should consider selective incorporation of duloxetine into the multimodal postoperative analgesic protocol, according to the severity of central sensitization, to minimize the possibility of persistent pain following TKA.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Continuous Use of Fiber Optics-Enabled Coiled Tubing Used to Accelerate the Optimization of Completions Aimed at Improved Recovery and Reduced Cost of Development
Authors: Natareno Nestor , Thelen Michael , Charbonneau Jennifer , Sahdev Neha , Cook Peter
Published: January 2019

Continuous improvement in completions designs leading to an increased return on asset development is one of the primary focuses of operating companies. To continue driving towards this goal, an operator looked to continuously optimize completions designs in their acreage in Bakken, North Dakota. There were two parallel paths taken to a) reduce CAPEX on wells (optimizing completions costs) and b) optimize completions designs towards increased recovery. The challenge with the design changes and validation was the time for evaluation. One of primary objectives of this campaign discussed in this paper was to reduce the "reaction time", and be able to make improvements to completions designs in a timely manner

Fiber optics was identified as a technology that could help achieve the campaign's optimization and continuous improvement goals. Coiled tubing-(CT) deployed fiber was run after fracturing treatment in wells to identify fracture initiation points (FIPs). Using FIPs as a proxy for completion effectiveness enables more rapid treatment evaluation than waiting months to use production volumes for the same purpose, the fundamental assumption being that more FIPs ultimately leads to higher production rates. Treatment evaluation data helped the operator understand the effectiveness of various completion designs and make step changes in design for incremental improvement. This analytics campaign is ongoing and treatment evaluation has been performed for more than 20 wells. Treatment evaluation is typically performed in the same CT run as post-fracturing cleanout, reducing the incremental cost of the data acquisition and improving operational efficiency.

The operator was able to achieve project goals using fiber-optics technology. Key findings: Reaction time for completions design changes evaluation changed from about 6 months historically to 1 month by using coiled tubing-deployed fiber optics, which meant faster improvements and better realized returnsUp to 25% increase in production was achievedUp to 8% reduction in capital for completions of the wells was realizedMultiple design changes could be evaluated along a single lateral.

Fiber-optics technology was uniquely used to accelerate the learning curve by reducing the time required to evaluate the effectiveness of completion designs. Evaluating multiple wells created a large, statistically relevant, dataset which has boosted confidence in implementing completions changes.
An Eagle Ford Case Study: Improving an Infill Well Completion Through Optimized Refracturing Treatment of the Offset Parent Wells
Authors: Garza Mary , Baumbach Joshua , Prosser James , Pettigrew Spencer , Elvig Kirsten
Published: January 2019

This case study reviews Noble Energy's completion design, execution, and results of an Eagle Ford infill well B3 and the refracturing (refrac) treatments pumped on the direct offsets referred to in this paper as wells A1 and A2. The refrac stimulations were planned to serve the joint purpose of frac hit protection of the existing parent wells' reserves and re-pressurization of depleted zones to improve the performance of the infill child well. Both chemical diversion and mechanical diversion pods were utilized on the bullhead style refrac to optimize lateral placement of fracturing fluid and proppant.

The A1 refrac was pumped first with a larger job size of proppant, water, and diversion material. The A2 refrac, pumped second, was half the size of the A1. Instantaneous shut-in pressure (ISIP) and diversion pressure response data was captured at each stage for both wells. Infill well B3 was completed last with normal plug-and-perf operations and the optimum job size of the time. The child well B3 production will be compared to offset wells with no depletion risk as well as to a 2014 vintage infill (Y3) well that was completed with no refrac on the direct offsets (X1 and X2).

The A1 refrac data showed a gradual trend of increasing ISIP and treating pressure throughout the job indicating a more uniform stimulation of the lateral. There is a sustained production uplift resulting in a 36% improvement in estimated ultimate recovery (EUR). The A2 refrac data showed anomalous ISIP and pressure spikes mid-way through the job indicating the stimulation was not accessing the entire lateral. This blockage downhole was caused by being too aggressive with the concentration of pods pumped per stage. Since the A2 was not effectively re-pressurized, there was negligible change to EUR when the well was returned to production. In comparing the two refracs, we concluded that a larger job (increased proppant, fluid, and diversion) with less concentrated but more frequent diversion drops will increase lateral coverage and more effectively protect the parent well reserves.

The surface treating pressures of the infill B3 indicate new rock was stimulated and initial production results trend with offset well production of the area showing no impact from depletion. Contrasting this with the prior infill Y3 completed with no refracs on parent wells, the Y3 has lower initial production (IP) rates and EUR when compared to its offset wells showing an obvious impact from depletion. Additionally, the refrac'd parent well A1 saw an improvement in EUR while the non-refrac'd parent X1 saw EUR degradation. In conclusion, pumping optimized refracs on the offset parent wells will both protect parent well reserves and improve the performance of the child well.
Internalization of Tolerance Values in Islamic Education
Authors: Nugroho Puspo
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this paper is to know the internalization process of religious tolerance values such as tauhid, rahmah, musawah in educational institutions. This study took place in the SMP Muhammadiyah Salatiga, the Junior High School, which using a qualitative approach. The results of this study are that first, to put tolerance values into the curriculum, second, to develop vertical relationships in Allah SWT and horizontal fellow humans, third, to emphasize the implementation of tolerance values in the daily lives of students in realizing Islam rahmatan lil alamin,  Fourth,  the teacher gives examples of tolerance behavior in the learning process.AbstrakTujuan tulisan ini ingin mengetahui proses internallisasi nilai-nilai toleransi beragama seperti tauhid, rahmah, musawah di lembaga pendidikan. Penelitian ini mengambil lokasi di Sekolah Menengah Pertama Muhammadiyah Salatiga dengan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif. Hasil penelitian ini adalah  pertama memasukkan nilai-nilai toleransi ke dalam kurikulum, kedua : membangun hubungan vertikal pada Allah SWT dan horizontal sesama manusia, ketiga: menekankan pelaksanaan nilai-nilai toleransi dalam kehidupan sehari-hari siswa dalam mewujudkan Islam rahmatan lil alamin. Ke empat: guru memberi contoh prilaku toleransi dalam proses pembelajaran.
The Growth of Learning Enthusiasm at the Emeyodere Muslim Minority Education Institution in West Papua
Authors: Wekke Ismail Suardi , Ruaidah Fitri , Wardi Moh.
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this study was to find out what factors could trigger the enthusiasm of the Emeyodere foundation students. This study uses a qualitative descriptive research method. The results showed that first, the leadership factor of the foundation, the foundation aim was to elevating the Kokoda tribe from educational backwardness. Second, motivation factor. Third, aid factor, the foundation provides assistance or donations such as books, stationery for every semester, school uniforms for disadvantaged students, and supplementary meals every two weeks.AbstrakTujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor apa saja yang dapat memicu semangat peserta didik yayasan Emeyodere. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian deskriptif kualitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pertama, Faktor kepemimpinan yayasan, yayasan ini didirikan dengan tujuan untuk mengangkat derajat suku Kokoda dari keterbelakangan pendidikan. Kedua, faktor motivasi, ketiga, faktor bantuan, pihak yayasan memberikan bantuan atau sumbangan berupa buku-buku dan alat tulis pada setiap semester, seragam sekolah bagi peserta didik yang  kurang mampu, dan makanan tambahan setiap dua minggu sekali.
College Students’ Perception about the Implementation of Democratic and Humanist Learning Model in State Islamic Institute (IAIN) Sultan Amai Gorontalo
Authors: Asiah.T Siti , Anwar Herson
Published: January 2019

This research aims to analyse the perception of students of Islamic Education Management Study Program at Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Islamic State University (IAIN) Sultan Amai Gorontalo about the implementation of democratic and humanist learning model. The sample used in the research was 98 respondents. The data analysis technique used was descriptive statistic by using Weighted Means Score (WMS) formula. The research result about student perception showed that lecturers at Islamic Education Management Study Program had already been applied democratic and humanist learning model perfectly in the interactive learning condition. To realize a democratic and humanist learning model, lecturer figure is needed that has the knowledge and ability to develop a model of democratic and humanist learning. AbstrakPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji dan menganalisis persepsi mahasiswa Prodi Manajemen Pendidikan Islam Fakultas Ilmu Tarbiyah dan Keguruan IAIN Sultan Amai Gorontalo tentang penerapan model pembelajaran yang demokratis dan humanis. Jumlah sampel adalah 98 responden. Teknik analisis data menggunakan statistik deskriptif dengan rumus Weighted Means Score (WMS). Hasil penelitian mengenai persepsi mahasiswa menunjukkan bahwa model pembelajaran demokratis dan humanis sudah diterapkan dengan baik dalam suasana pembelajaran yang interaksi dan interaktif. Untuk mewujudkan model pembelajaran yang demokratis dan humanis, diperlukan sosok dosen yang memiliki pengetahuan dan kemampuan untuk mengembangkan model pembelajaran demokratis dan humanis
Learning Development Based On Multicultural In Inclusion School
Authors: Wahid Abdul , Sugiharto DYP. , Samsudi Samsudi , Haryono Haryono
Published: January 2019

The aim of the study was to describe the development of multicultural-based inclusion learning in TK Talenta Semarang. This type of research is qualitative descriptive. The findings in this study are that first, multicultural-based inclusion learning is more emphasized in the implementation and evaluation of learning, second, multicultural values grow in students through activities in religious centers that emphasize social piety respecting differences, third: differences in institutions inclusive education is a miniature of diversity in ethnicity, race and religion.AbstrakTujuan penelitian adalah untuk mendeskripsikan pengembangan pembelajaran inklusi berbasis multikultural di TK Talenta Semarang. Jenis penelitian ini adalah deskriptif kualitatif. Temuan dalam penelitian ini adalah bahwa pertama, pembelajaran inklusi berbasis multi kultural lebih ditekankan pada pelaksanaan dan evaluasi pembelajaran, kedua, Nilai-nilai multikultural tumbuh dalam pribadi siswa melalui kegiatan di sentra agama yang menekankan kesalehan sosial menghormati perbedaan, ketiga : perbedaan yang ada di lembaga pendidikan inklusi merupakan miniatur dari keragaman suku, ras dan agama.
Model of Religious Culture Education and Humanity
Authors: Abdullah Muhammad Luthfi , Syahri Akhmad
Published: January 2019

This study aims to find out how the model of religious cultural education to create human character. This study uses a qualitative method. The research subjects were students at the Darut Tauhid Islamic boarding school in Bandung. The results of the study show that there are 8 (eight) religious cultures implemented in education and become a spirit to form human values, namely TSP (Resistant to littering, storing garbage in its place, picking up garbage insha Allah blessing); Bebaskomiba (Messing, Wet-Drying, Dirty-Cleaning, Leaning, Dangerous)); three M, five K, profit concept, five S, five don't, seven B.AbstrakPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana model pendidikan budaya berbasis agama untuk membentuk nilai-nilai kemanusiaan. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif. Subjek penelitiannya adalah mahasiswa di pesantren Darut Tauhid Bandung. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ada 8 (delapan) budaya agama yang diimplementasikan dalam pendidikan dan menjadi semangat untuk membentuk nilai-nilai kemanusiaan yaitu TSP (Tahan dari buang sampah sembarangan, Simpan sampah pada tempatnya,Pungut sampah insya Allah berkah); Bebaskomiba (Berantakan-rapikan, Basah-keringkan, Kotor-bersihkan, Miring-luruskan, Bahaya-amankan); tiga M, lima K, konsep untung, lima S, lima jangan, tujuh B.  Kata Kunci: Model Pendidikan; Budaya Agama; Nilai Kemanusiaan Islam; Program Pesantren Mahasiswa; Daarut Tauhiid
Analysis Study of Parental Choice of Education in The Millenial Era
Authors: Fauzi Ahmad , BR Rosyadi , Baharun Hasan
Published: January 2019

This article discusses parents' choices about the model of Islamic education in the millennial era. This study uses the library method. The results showed that parents had several criteria in determining the choice of educational models in the millennial era, namely a). schools that provide a lot of religious material b). combining religion and science, c). giving reinforcement to monotheism, d). madrasas that have vision, mission with good management. E). madrasas that have the same status as public schools. AbstrakArtikel ini membahas pilihan orang tua tentang model pendidikan Islam di era milenial. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kepustakaan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa orangtua memiliki beberapa kriteria dalam menentukan pilihan model pendidikan di era millennial yaitu a). sekolah yang banyak memberikan materi agama b). mengkombinasikan agama dan sains, c). memberikan penguatan pada tauhid, d). madrasah yang memiliki visi, misi dengan pengelolaan manajemen yang baik. E). madrasah yang memiliki status yang sama dengan sekolah umum
The Cultivation of Tolerance Value in Madrasah through Tahfidh Hadits
Authors: Musyafiq Ahmad
Published: January 2019

This article will analyze the content and learning process of the tahfidh hadith in Integrated Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MIT) Nurul Islam Ngaliyan Semarang related to the cultivation of tolerance values. This study uses content analysis and in-depth interviews. The results of this study are that first, most of the contents of the tahfid hadith package contain ghairu mahdlah (social) worship which reaches 83%, in which there is a tolerance value, while the hadith about worship is 17%. Second, the tahfidh learning process uses a variety of methods, namely writing, reading, memorizing, translating and monitoring the application of the values contained in the hadith in everyday life. AbstrakArtikel ini akan menganalisa isi dan proses pembelajaran tahfidh hadis  di Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Terpadu (MIT)  Nurul Islam Ngaliyan Semarang terkait dengan penanaman nilai-nilai toleransi. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis isi dan wawancara mendalam. Hasilnya adalah bahwa pertama, sebagian besar isi paket hadis tahfidh memuat ibadah ghairu mahdlah (sosial) yang mencapai 83%, yang di dalamnya terdapat nilai toleransi, sedangkan hadits tentang ibadah mahdhah 17%. Kedua, Proses pembelajaran tahfidh hadits menggunakan berbagai variasi metode yaitu menulis, membaca, menghafal, menerjemah dan pemantauan penerapan nilai-nilai yang terkandung dalam hadits dalam kehidupan sehari-hari .
Albumin Based Nanoparticles for Detection of Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Karaca Nursenem , Ünlüer Özlem Biçen
Published: January 2019

Background:

Molecular imaging of cancer cells using effective drug targeting systems are most interested research area in recent years. Albumin protein is a soluble and most abundant protein in circulatory system. It has a ligand-binding function and acts as a transport protein. Researchers are interested in developing albumin based nanostructured specific anti-tumor drugs in cancer therapy. Pancreatic cancer treatment or drug design for targeted pancreatic cancer cell has great importance due to it has a high mortality rate comparing other cancer types.

Objective:

In this article, our goal is to develop new targeting nanoparticles based on the conjugation of albumin and Hyaluronic Acid (HA) for pancreatic cancer cells.

Method:

In this article, we proposed a new technique for conjugation of albumin (BSA) and HA in nano formation. Firstly, cationic BSA is synthesized. Then, BSA-HA conjugation is obtained by interacted cationic BSA with 1000 ppm HA. Secondly, nano BSA-HA particles and nano BSA particles were synthesized according to AmiNoAcid Decorated and Light Underpinning Conjugation Approach (ANADOLUCA) method which provides a special cross-linking strategy for biomolecules using ruthenium-based amino acid monomer haptens. After characterization studies, in vitro cytotoxic activity of synthesized nano BSA-HA particles were determined for PANC-1 ATCC® CRL146 cells.

Results:

According to the data, nano BSA and nano BSA-HA particles synthesized uniquely using special ruthenium-based amino acid decorated cross-linking agent, (MATyr)2-Ru-(MATyr)2.based on ANDOLUCA method. Characterization results showed that there was not any change in protein folding structures during nano formation process. In addition, nano protein particles gained fluorescence feature. When interacting synthesized nano BSA and nano BSA-HA particles with pancreatic cells, it was found that BSA nanoparticles were usually around cells and membranes, but BSA-HA nanoparticles were identified around the cells, in the cytoplasm inside the cell, and next to the cell nucleus. So, nano BSA-HA particles could be used as cancer cell imaging agent for PANC-1 ATCC® CRL146 cells.

Conclusion:

The satisfactory conclusion of this study is that synthesized nano BSA-HA particles are fundamental materials for targeting pancreatic cancer cells due to HA receptors located on pancreatic cancer cells and imaging agents due to fluorescence feature of the BSA-HA nanoparticles.
Genetics of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A 2018 Update
Authors: Valenti Luca V.C. , Baselli Guido A.
Published: January 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now the leading cause of liver damage worldwide, is epidemiologically
associated with obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, and is a potentially progressive condition
to advanced liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, there is huge interindividual variability in
liver disease susceptibility. Inherited factors also play an important role in determining disease predisposition. During
the last years, common variants in PNPLA3, TM6SF2, MBOAT7 and GCKR have been demonstrated to predispose
to the full spectrum of NAFLD pathology by facilitating hepatic fat accumulation in the presence of environmental
triggers. Other variants regulating inflammation and fibrogenesis then modulate liver disease progression in
those at higher risk. Evidence is also accumulating that rare variants are involved in disease predisposition. In the
future, evaluation of genetic risk factors may be exploited to stratify the risk of liver-related complications of the
disease, and to guide hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance and choose pharmacological therapy.
Noncoding Rnas Emerging as Novel Biomarkers in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Garajová Ingrid , Balsano Rita , Tommasi Chiara , Giovannetti Elisa
Published: January 2019

Noncoding RNAs play important regulatory roles in diverse biological processes and their misregulation might lead to different diseases, including cancer. Previous studies have reported the evolving role of miRNAs as new potential biomarkers in cancer diagnosis, prognosis, as well as predictive biomarkers of chemotherapy response or therapeutic targets. In this review, we outline the involvement of noncoding RNA in pancreatic cancer, providing an overview of known miRNAs in its diagnosis, prognosis and chemoresistance. In addition, we discuss the influence of non-coding RNAs in the metastatic behavior of pancreatic cancer, as well as the role of diet in epigenetic regulation of non-coding RNAs in cancer, which can, in turn, lead the development of new prevention’s techniques or novel targets for cancer therapy.
Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Exosomes Reduce Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by the Inhibitions of Apoptosis and Autophagy
Authors: Jiang Xiaofei , Lew Kar-Sheng , Chen Qiying , Richards Arthur M. , Wang Peipei
Published: January 2019

Background:

Human mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (hMSC-Exo) have been shown to
reduce ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/R) in multiple models. I/R-induced apoptosis or autophagy play important
roles in cell death. However, little or no reports demonstrate any roles of hMSC-Exo in this regards. Objective:
To test the hypothesis that the inhibition of I/R-induced apoptosis and autophagy play a pivotal role in the cardioprotection
of hMSC-Exo.

Methods:

Myoblast H9c2 cells and isolated rat hearts underwent hypoxia/re-oxygenate (H/R) or ischemia/
reperfusion (I/R) respectively. H9c2 were treated with 1.0 μg/ml Exo, in comparison with 3-MA or rapamycin
(Rapa), a known anti- or pro-autophagic agent respectively. Hearts were treated with 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 μg/ml
Exo for 20 min in the beginning of reperfusion. Cell viability, WST assay, LDH release, Annexin-V staining
apoptosis assay and GFP-LC3 labeled autophagosomes formation, cardiac function and Western blot were measured.

Results:

Exo significantly reduced H/R injury as indicated by increased cell viability and reduced LDH and apoptosis.
3-MA, while Rapa, showed increased or decreased protective effects. Rapa-induced injury was partially
blocked by Exo. Exo decreased LC3-II/I ratio and increased p62, inhibited autophagosome formation, an indication
of autophagy inhibition. In isolated heart, Exo increased cardiac functional recovery and reduced LDH release
in I/R. Bcl-2 was significantly upregulated by Exo but not 3-MA. Exo downregulated Traf6 and upregulated
mTORC1/p-4eBP1.

Conclusion:

Exo reduce I/R-induced apoptosis and autophagy. Up-regulation of Bcl-2 is the cross-talk between
these two processes. The down-regulation of Traf6 and activation of mTORC1 are additional mechanisms in the
inhibition of apoptosis and autophagy.
A Journey through the Cytoskeleton with Protein Kinase CK2
Authors: D'Amore Claudio , Salizzato Valentina , Borgo Christian , Cesaro Luca , Pinna Lorenzo A. , Salvi Mauro
Published: January 2019

Substrate pleiotropicity, a very acidic phosphorylation consensus sequence, and an apparent uncontrolled activity, are the main features of CK2, a Ser/Thr protein kinase that is required for a plethora of cell functions. Not surprisingly, CK2 appears to affect cytoskeletal structures and correlated functions such as cell shape, mechanical integrity, cell movement and division. This review outlines our current knowledge of how CK2 regulates cytoskeletal structures, and discusses involved pathways and molecular mechanisms.
Research Progress of Glycyrrhizic Acid on Antiviral Activity
Authors: Sun Zhi-Gang , Zhao Ting-Ting , Lu Na , Yang Yong-An , Zhu Hai-Liang
Published: January 2019

Glycyrrhizic acid (GA), a triterpene isolated from the roots and rhizomes of licorice, named
Glycyrrhiza glabra, is the principal bioactive ingredient of anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective
effects. GA has been used in the clinical treatment of hepatitis, bronchitis, gastric ulcer, AIDS
(acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), certain cancers and skin diseases. It has a direct effect on
anti-HBV (hepatitis B virus) via affecting the HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen) to extracellular secretion,
improving liver dysfunction in patients with chronic hepatitis B, and ultimately improving the
immune status of HBV. GA can significantly inhibit the proliferation of HIV, showing an immune activation.
The clinical application of GA on the prevention and treatments of various diseases may derive
from its numerous pharmacological properties. This review provides the summary of the antiviral
effects of GA on research progress and mechanism in recent years.
Role of 2-Dimensional Autocorrelation Descriptors in Predicting Antimalarial Activity of Artemisinin and its Aanalogues: A QSAR Study
Authors: Kalra Sourav , Joshi Gaurav , Kumar Raj , Munshi Anjana
Published: January 2019

Background:

Malaria, one of the World’s biggest billers’ is on the schedule for biomedical
research and public health policies. The introduction of the artemisinin, a Chinese traditional drug from
Artemisia annua is a revolution in the treatment of malaria. Artemisinin-based combination treatment
(ACT) is considered to be the best strategy for uncomplicated Falciparum malaria. The presence of
1,2,4-trioxane system in artemisinin is responsible for its antimalarial activity.

Methods:

In this study, twenty-nine analogues of artemisinin were taken into account for QSAR studies
along with artemisinin. The most active analogue of artemisinin 21 was energy minimized. All the structures
were prepared from the active conformer 21 and energy was minimized to the stable state using
MMFF94 force field using ChemBioDraw-12. Genetic Algorithm is used to decide the descriptors best
required for the model generation. The test set and training set division were done by using hierarchal
clustering module available with NCSS statistical software.

Results and Conclusion:

The antimalarial activity of the artemisinin and its substituted analogues has
been analyzed through the multiple linear regression (MLR) using various physiochemical and structural
descriptors obtained from PADEL software. The models were prepared using the Sigma Plot version 11.
The calculated 2D autocorrelation descriptors and the MLR model suggest that artemisinin and its
analogues hold the scope in the optimization of antimalarial activity.
Modern Computational Strategies for Designing Drugs to Curb Human Diseases: A Prospect
Authors: Dar Khalid Bashir , Bhat Aashiq Hussain , Amin Shajrul , Hamid Rabia , Anees Suhail , Anjum Syed , Reshi Bilal Ahmad , Zargar Mohammad Afzal , Masood Akbar , Ganie Showkat Ahmad
Published: January 2019

Drug discovery is an exhaustive and time-consuming process involving numerous stages like
target identification, validation, lead optimization, preclinical trials, clinical trials and finally postmarketing
vigilance for drug safety. The application of computer-aided drug designing (CADD) is an
indispensable approach for developing safe and effective drugs. Previous methods based on
combinatorial chemistry (CC) and high throughput screening (HTS) consumed a lot of time as well as
expenditure. CADD based approaches including pharmacophore modeling (PM), molecular docking
(MD), inverse docking, chemical similarity (CS), quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR),
virtual screening (VS) and molecular dynamics simulations have been quite productive in predicting the
therapeutic outcome of candidate drugs/compounds besides saving precious time. CADD tools exploit
structural and other information available regarding the target (enzyme/receptor) and the ligands to
identify the compounds with the ability to treat diseases notably cancer, neurodegenerative disorders,
malaria, Ebola, HIV-AIDS and many more. Computational approaches have led to the discovery of
many drugs that have passed preclinical and clinical trials and become novel therapeutics in the
treatment of a variety of diseases. Some notable examples of CADD derived novel drugs include
dorzolamide, saquinavir, ritonavir, indinavir, captopril and tirofiban. CADD plays important role in
predicting absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADME/T) of candidate drugs.
Overall, CADD represents an effective and much-needed strategy for designing therapeutically effective
drugs to combat human diseases.
Drug Repurposing for Retinoblastoma: Recent Advances
Authors: Dandu Kamakshi , Kallamadi Prathap R. , Thakur Suman S. , Rao Ch. Mohan
Published: January 2019

Retinoblastoma is the intraocular malignancy that occurs during early childhood. The current
standard of care includes chemotherapy followed by focal consolidative therapies, and enucleation. Unfortunately,
these are associated with many side and late effects. New drugs and/or drug combinations
need to be developed for safe and effective treatment. This compelling need stimulated efforts to explore
drug repurposing for retinoblastoma. While conventional drug development is a lengthy and expensive
process, drug repurposing is a faster, alternate approach, where an existing drug, not meant for treating
cancer, can be repurposed to treat retinoblastoma. The present article reviews various attempts to test
drugs approved for different purposes such as calcium channels blockers, non-steroidal antiinflammatory
drugs, cardenolides, antidiabetic, antibiotics and antimalarial for treating retinoblastoma.
It also discusses other promising candidates that could be explored for repurposing for retinoblastoma.
Social Determinants Associated with Tuberculosis Mortality in a General Hospital in Mexico
Authors: Ábrego-Fernández Juan Ángel , Laniado-Laborín Rafael
Published: January 2019

Background:

Most TB deaths can be prevented with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In fact, millions of people are diagnosed and treated successfully every year, avoiding millions of deaths. However, globally, there are still huge gaps in detection and treatment.

Objective:

To identify the social determinants associated with mortality due to TB in a general hospital in Mexico.

Methodology:

All patients admitted with a diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis to the Emergency Department of a hospital in Mexico were included during a 10-month period. At the end of the study, the condition of discharge of all cases was obtained from the electronic database of the State Tuberculosis Program.

Results:

One-hundred and twenty-four patients with tuberculosis were included in the sample. Thirty-eight patients (30.6%) died during their hospital stay and eleven (8.9%) died outside the hospital after their discharge, for a total of 49 (39.5%) deaths. Of the 29 patients with HIV/AIDS, 12 died (41.3%). Logistic regression analysis showed that older age, imprisonment, and previous tuberculosis were significant predictors of mortality.

Conclusion:

The mortality of tuberculosis patients diagnosed in HGT is very high, mainly because the diagnosis is established at the hospital level, which implies a late diagnosis.
Dysfunction of Magnocellular/dorsal Processing Stream in Schizophrenia
Authors: Chieffi Sergio
Published: January 2019

Background:

Patients with schizophrenia show not only cognitive, but also perceptual deficits. Perceptual deficits may affect different sensory modalities. Among these, the impairment of visual information processing is of particular relevance as demonstrated by the high incidence of visual disturbances. In recent years, the study of neurophysiological mechanisms that underlie visuo-perceptual, -spatial and -motor disorders in schizophrenia has increasingly attracted the interest of researchers.

Objective:

The study aims to review the existent literature on magnocellular/dorsal (occipitoparietal) visual processing stream impairment in schizophrenia. The impairment of relatively early stages of visual information processing was examined using experimental paradigms such as backward masking, contrast sensitivity, contour detection, and perceptual closure. The deficits of late processing stages were detected by examining visuo-spatial and -motor abilities.

Results:

Neurophysiological and behavioral studies support the existence of deficits in the processing of visual information along the magnocellular/dorsal pathway. These deficits appear to affect both early and late stages of visual information processing.

Conclusion:

The existence of disturbances in the early processing of visual information along the magnocellular/dorsal pathway is strongly supported by neurophysiological and behavioral observations. Early magnocellular dysfunction may provide a substrate for late dorsal processing impairment as well as higher-level cognition deficits.
Prediction and Optimization of Parameters for the Al5083/ B4C Composite Wear Rate
Authors: Singh Ram , Shadab Malik , Debnath Rabisankar , Rai Ram Naresh
Published: January 2019

Background:

Al5083 has been basically used in marine and aerospace applications where it is intended for higher corrosion resistance and better weldability. Again this, Al5083 matrix has not been suitable for various other applications such as electrical contact brushes, cylinder liners, artificial joints and helicopter blades due to its poor wear resistance properties.

Objective:

The aim of this research is the optimization of wear rate of the composite with Al5083 matrix, reinforced with B4C (Boron carbide) particles, and it is achieved through the investigation of the subsequent effect: wt.% of the reinforcement, applied load and sliding speed.

Methods:

The material used for specimen is Al5083 and Al5083/B4C composite which is melted at 750°C in an induction furnace; the composite is prepared by stir casting technique. It was developed by an ex-situ technique. The liquid melt poured into preheated cast iron mould for carrying out the specimen preparation of wear testing.

Results:

The wear rate of Al5083/B4C composite is less than Al5083, the most influencing factor on wear rate is applied load and mechanism of deformation induced in the sliding surface of the pin was analysed by SEM (scanning electron microscope).

Conclusion:

Wear rate of Al5083 and Al5083/B4C composite increases with the increase of applied load, sliding speed and decreases as the wt. % B4C increases. The contribution of applied load is more in wear rate as compared to the other two factors and the value predicted by Taguchi, obtained by RSM (Response surface methodology) and evaluated by experiment are almost similar.
A Novel Desensitization Protocol for Infliximab Hypersensitivity in a 13-Year Old Patient with Pustular Psoriasis
Authors: Behera Sapan Kumar , Selvarajan Sandhiya , Mathews Jerene , Shajil Chandana , Das Saibal , Munisamy Malathi , Xavier Alphienes Stanley
Published: January 2019

Background:

Drug hypersensitivity reactions to infliximab have been reported in pediatric
patients. At times, these patients may need infliximab administration in spite of hypersensitivity.
However, only a few reports of desensitization protocols are available in the literature in pediatric
patients.

Case Report:

We report a case of immediate hypersensitivity reaction to intravenous infliximab in a
13-year-old child suffering from pustular psoriasis who eventually underwent a 14 step desensitization
protocol for the administration of infliximab in a pediatric intensive care unit.

Results and Conclusion:

Although our desensitization protocol was safe and effective, we recommend
the entire desensitization procedure to be performed under the supervision of experienced
personnel in a pediatric intensive care unit. Future studies with larger sample size are needed to confirm
our findings.
Legionella pneumophila Pneumonia in Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kleinberg Katherine A. , Antony Suresh J.
Published: January 2019

:

L. pneumophila is an unusual cause of pneumonia with a prevalence of 2.7%, and it is
even more uncommon in pregnancy. To date, only 11 cases of Legionnaire’s Disease in pregnancy
have been reported, though this small number could possibly be attributed to underdiagnoses and
under documentation.

Case Presentation:

In this paper, we present a 31-year-old Hispanic female, gravida 4, para 1
from the southwest United States who presented with a 3-week history of fever, worsening cough,
dyspnea on exertion, and hypoxemia. Chest x-ray showed bibasilar infiltrates, with positive serology
for Legionella IgM and IgG (1:250 and 1:640 respectively), as well as positive urinary antigen.
Despite appropriate treatment with azithromycin 500 mg, she continued to have dyspnea and
mild respiratory distress.

Conclusion:

Upon follow up, mother and fetus initially remained stable without any signs of sequelae
from Legionnaire’s disease, but the patient miscarried 5 weeks after the second admission
to the hospital. The chest x-ray eventually cleared up after almost 21 days of azithromycin.
Distribution of Iron Uptake Systems Encoding Genes Among the Clinical Isolates of Escherichia coli Compared to Foodstuffs Isolates
Authors: Mahmoudi Hassan , Hossainpour Hadi , Moradi Mohammad , Alikhani Mohammad Yousef
Published: January 2019

Background:

Bacteria require iron ions to grow and infect the host, which, by using
iron uptake systems, acquire free iron from their host cell. Escherichia coli is one of the most important
pathogens to cause food poisoning and clinical infections. The aim of this study was to assess
the distribution of iron uptake systems encoding genes in clinical isolates of E.coli compared
to food samples isolates.

Materials and Methods:

This investigation was conducted to determine the prevalence of E. coli
isolated from various sources of food and clinical specimens. The E. coli isolates confirmed by the
standard microbiological methods. The isolates were examined for the presence of iut A and iuc A
genes by specific primers using the polymerase chain reaction technique.

Results:

A total of 100 and 50 isolates of E. coli were collected from clinical samples and foodstuffs,
respectively. The prevalence of E. coli in the food and clinical samples was 33.33% and
64.10%, respectively. The frequency of iut A and iuc A genes in the food and clinical isolates were
76%-84% and 86% - 83%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our results showed that the prevalence of E. coli isolates with iut A and iuc A genes
was relatively higher compared to many previous studies. The existence of these genes in E. coli
strains is likely to be related to pathogenicity in those strains, which requires further studies in the
future.