bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antifungal Activity of Essential Oil from Asteriscus graveolens against Postharvest Phytopathogenic Fungi in Apples
Authors: Znini Mohamed , Cristofari Gregory , Majidi Lhou , Mazouz Hamid , Tomi Pierre , Paolini Julien , Costa Jean
Published: March 2019

The essential oils of the aerial parts of Asteriscus graveolens have been studied using GC and GC-MS. Twenty-eight compounds were identified in the essential oil amounting to 94.9% of the total oil. The aerial part oils showed similar chromatographic profiles and were characterized by having a high content of oxygenated sesquiterpenes with 6-oxocyclonerolidol (66.7% ±5.5) and 6-hydroxycyclonerolidol (8.8% ±1.2) as the major components. The antifungal effect of the essential oil from A. graveolens leaves was evaluated in vitro against three phytopathogenic fungi of apples ( Alternaria sp., Penicillium expansum, and Rhizopus stolonifer). The results suggest that this essential oil has fungicidal properties towards Alternaria sp. from direct contact assay at 0.2% (v/v) and to P. expansum from vapor assay tests at 80 μL.
Essential Oils from the Hyptis genus- A Review (1909-2009)
Authors: McNeil Megil , Facey Petrea , Porter Roy
Published: March 2019

Several species belonging to the Hyptis (Lamiaceae) genus represent an important source of bioactive constituents, which are reputed for their wide range of antimicrobial, anticancer and insecticidal activities. The volatile oils obtained from various parts of the Hyptis plants were found to be primarily composed of mono- and sesquiterpenes. Significant differences were observed in the percentage compositions of the major components, which allowed for differentiation among the species. Based on the dominant constituents, phylogenetic relationships were found to be common among some species: 1,8-cineole ( H. fruticosa, H. goyazensis, H. martiusii and H. suaveolens); β-caryophyllene ( H. marrubioides, H. pectinata, H. spicigera and H. suaveolens); eugenol ( H. recurvata and H. suaveolens); γ-cadinene ( H. glomerata and H. ovalifolia); p-cymene ( H. mutabilis and H. pectinata); α-pinene ( H. crenata and H. emoryi). The monoterpenes, α-pinene and p-cymene were detected at various concentrations in all the Hyptis oils investigated. This paper reviews the essential oil compositions of eighteen Hyptis plant species studied in various parts of the world covering the publications of 100 years (1909 to 2009) after the first article appeared in the literature.
Bioconversion of Proposed Precursors into Theobroxide and Related Compounds
Authors: Li Peng , Takahashi Kosaku , Elkhateeb Ahmed , Matsuura Hideyuki , Yoshihara Teruhiko , Nabeta Kensuke
Published: March 2019

We have previously reported a tetraketide origin for theobroxide and its related compound. In the present study, bioconversion of natural and deuterium-labeled precursors of this proposed biosynthetic pathway by Lasiodipoldia theobromae was investigated. Theobroxide was quantified after bioconversion from each proposed precursor. The transformation of the isotopically labeled precursor to products was tracked by 2H NMR measurement.
A Phytochemical Investigation of Zanthoxylum setulosum
Authors: Walker Tameka M. , Vogler Bernhard , Moriarity Debra M. , Haber William A. , Setzer William N.
Published: March 2019

The crude bark extract of Zanthoxylum setulosum from Monteverde, Costa Rica was notably cytotoxic (100% kill at 100 μg/mL) to MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and MDA-MB-468 cells in vitro. Phytochemical studies of the bark extract revealed the triterpenoid lupeol, the lignan sesamin, the sesquiterpene sesquichamaenol, and the xanthone lichexanthone. This is the first report of the isolation of sesquichamaenol and lichexanthone from the bark extract of Z. setulosum. All structures were determined using NMR spectroscopic techniques (1H NMR and 13C NMR) and GCMS and by comparison with literature data. Lupeol proved to be the cytotoxic component of Z. setulosum bark.
C-Lactam Derivatives of Oleanolic Acid. The Synthesis of C-lactam by Beckmann Rearrangement of C-oxime
Authors: Cwynar Barbara Bednarczyk –
Published: March 2019

Oleanolic acid, one of the most known triterpenes, was subjected to different chemical transformations within C-3 β-hydroxyl group, a double bond between C-12 and C-13, and a carboxyl function at C-17 in order to obtain new derivatives. The key compound consists of four six-membered rings (A, B, D, E) and one enlarged ring (C ring) containing a nitrogen atom and a carbonyl function – lactam. This type of derivative can be obtained by Beckmann rearrangement of the appropriate oxime. The lactam can be transformed into thiolactam with the use of Lavesson's reagent. The method is also presented for new derivatives synthesis, as well as their structure elucidation by spectroscopic means.
A Novel Flavonoid and Furoquinoline Alkaloids from Vepris glomerata and their Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Kiplimo Joyce J. , Islam Md. Shahidul , Koorbanally Neil A.
Published: March 2019

The dichloromethane extract of the aerial part of the plant Vepris glomerata (Rutaceae) yielded a new flavonoid, which was accorded the trivial name veprisinol (1), together with four known furoquinoline alkaloids: haplopine-3,3′-dimethylallyl ether (2), anhydroevoxine (3), evoxine (4) and skimmianine (5). The structures of the compounds were established by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, as well as HREIMS. Compounds 1 and 2 have strong antioxidant potential, similar to and in some instances better than ascorbic acid and can be used as beneficial additives to antioxidant supplements.
Flavonoid Constituents and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Alchemilla mollis
Authors: Trendafilova Antoaneta , Todorova Milka , Nikolova Milena , Gavrilova Anna , Vitkova Antonina
Published: March 2019

Antioxidant capacity of the methanolic extract of Alchemilla mollis was measured by its ability to scavenge the DPPH radical. The EtOAc fraction obtained after partition of the total extract was found to be the most active radical scavenger (IC50 9.8 ± 1.8 μg/mL) and was subjected to fractionation by Sephadex LH-20 CC. Further purification by RP-18 CC led to the isolation of eight flavonoid glycosides: cis-and trans-tiliroside (1 and 2), rhodiolgin (3), hyperoside (4), isoquercitrin (5), miquelianin (6), sinocrassoside D2 (7), and gossypetin-3- O-β-D-galactopyranosyl-7- O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (8). It was found that 8 is a new compound and its antioxidant activity is also reported. Identification of the isolated compounds was carried out by spectroscopic and spectrometric analysis (1D and 2D NMR, UV and MS).
Antiviral Activities of Diarylheptanoids Isolated from Alpinia officinarum against Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Poliovirus, Measles Virus, and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 in vitro
Authors: Konno Katsuhiko , Sawamura Rie , Sun Yi , Yasukawa Ken , Shimizu Tomomi , Watanabe Wataru , Kato Masahiko , Yamamoto Ryuichi , Kurokawa Masahiko
Published: March 2019

Alpinia officinarum has been used as a folk medicine and contains diarylheptanoids that have various biological activities. However, their antiviral activities are less elucidated. We examined the antiviral activities of nine diarylheptanoids isolated from A. officinarum against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), poliovirus, measles virus, and herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) using a plaque reduction assay. The 50% inhibitory concentrations of seven of the nine diarylheptanoids for RSV were moderately but significantly lower than their 50% cytotoxic concentrations, as determined by a trypan blue exclusion assay. Four diarylheptanoids with anti-RSV activity also showed anti-poliovirus and anti-measles virus activities and three of the four exhibited anti-HSV-1 activity. Thus, seven of the nine diarylheptanoids examined exhibited potential antiviral activity against RSV, and most of the diarylheptanoids with anti-RSV activity, including two diarylheptanoids without anti-RSV activity, were effective against poliovirus, measles virus, and/or HSV-1 in vitro. Diarylheptanoids were suggested to have a broad spectrum of antiviral activity.
Phomosines H–J, Novel Highly Substituted Biaryl Ethers, Isolated from the Endophytic Fungus Phomopsis sp. from Ligustrum vulgare
Authors: Krohn Karsten , Farooq Umar , Hussain Hidayat , Ahmed Ishtiaq , Rheinheimer Joachim , Draeger Siegfried , Schulz Barbara , van Ree Teunis
Published: March 2019

From the endophytic fungus Phomosis sp., four known phomosines A-D (1-4) and three new phomosines H-J (5-7) have been isolated. The structures of the new compounds were determined on the basis of their spectroscopic data analysis (1H, 13C, 1H-1H COSY, HMQC, and HMBC NMR, as well as mass spectrometry). The structures of phomosine H (5) and J (7) were also confirmed by semisynthesis from phomosine A (1). The remaining four known compounds [phomosines A-D (1-4)] were identified by comparing their spectroscopic data with those reported in the literature. The four known metabolites were biologically active. Of the novel metabolites, only 6 was antifungal and antibacterial.
Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Essential oil from Salvia mukerjeei
Authors: Mohan Lalit , Negi Anuradha , Melkani Anand B. , Dev Vasu
Published: March 2019

The composition of steam volatile oil from aerial parts of Salvia mukerjeei Bennet & Raizada (Lamiaceae) was analyzed by capillary GC and GCMS. The oil was rich in sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (67.3%). Among 71 identified constituents representing 91.7% of the oil, β-caryophyllene (28.7%), γ-muurolene (15.5%) and dehydro-aromadendrane (9.5%), were the principal constituents. The oil was tested against ten bacterial strains and was active against Enterococcus faecalis, Erwinia chrysanthemi and Agrobacterium tumefaciens.
Revealing Indigenous Indonesian Traditional Medicine: Anti-infective Agents
Authors: Nugraha Ari S. , Keller Paul A.
Published: March 2019

Indonesia is rich in medicinal plants which the population has used traditionally from generation to generation for curing diseases. Our interest in the treatment of infectious diseases has lead to the investigation of traditional Indonesian treatments. In this review, we present a comprehensive review of ethnopharmacologically directed screening in Indonesian medicinal plants to search for new antiviral, antimalarial, antibacterial and antifungal agents. Some potent drug leads have been isolated from Indonesian medicinal plants. Further research is still required for the lead development as well as the search for new bioactive compounds from the enormous medicinal plant resources.
Infliximab in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Papamichael Konstantinos , Lin Steve , Moore Matthew , Papaioannou Garyfallia , Sattler Lindsey , Cheifetz Adam S.
Published: March 2019

Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy has revolutionized the medical treatment of the inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), Crohn’s disease (CD), and ulcerative colitis. Twenty years ago, infliximab became the first anti-TNF agent approved for IBD. Data from randomized controlled trials, large observational cohort studies, postmarketing registries, and meta-analyses show that infliximab is a very effective treatment for moderate to severe IBD with a good safety profile. Infliximab has been also used to treat pouchitis following an ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA) after restorative proctocolectomy and to prevent postoperative recurrence following an ileocolonic resection for CD with good results. Nevertheless, up to 30% of patients show no clinical benefit following induction and up to 50% lose response over time. Both these unwanted outcomes can be largely explained by inadequate drug concentrations and frequently by the development of antibodies to infliximab. Loss of response can be managed efficiently and often prevented by applying therapeutic drug monitoring. Recently, the first biosimilars of infliximab have been approved and are utilized in clinical practice with comparable efficacy and safety with the originator. This review will mainly focus on the efficacy of infliximab in IBD.
Prevalence of heartworm infection in the feral cat population of Grand Cayman
Authors: Darby Brandy , Dickinson Charles , Gaskins Lori , Hanna Paul
Published: March 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the presence and prevalence of heartworm infection in the feral cat population of Grand Cayman.

Methods

During the study period, feral cats were routinely trapped and euthanized for population control by the municipal animal shelter. Cats older than 6 months of age were obtained for post-mortem examination shortly after euthanasia. The heart, lungs, pulmonary vasculature, thoracic and abdominal cavities were examined for the presence, location and number of mature heartworms. Sections of caudal lung were evaluated histologically and serologic tests were performed to screen for additional evidence of heartworm exposure.

Results

Mature heartworms were identified in the pulmonary vasculature of 4/36 cats (11.1%). An additional nine cats showed histopathologic changes in the lungs consistent with heartworm exposure, and one cat had a positive antibody test.

Conclusions and relevance

The results indicate a minimum heartworm prevalence of 11.1% within this population of feral cats, consistent with published necropsy reports from other endemic localities. Considering the histopathologic changes observed in this group, the true prevalence is likely higher and underscores the importance of heartworm prevention for the companion cat population of the island.
A Content Analysis of School Counseling Supervision
Authors: Bledsoe Kenya G. , Logan-McKibben Sandra , McKibben W. Bradley , Cook Ryan M.
Published: March 2019

Building upon previous reviews of clinical supervision in counseling, we analyzed the content of 69 articles on school counseling supervision published from 1968 to 2017. We identified publication, methodological, and topical trends in school counseling supervision and contextualized them within the broader counseling supervision research, thereby highlighting important next steps for school counseling supervision research and practice.
Tissue-Sparing Posterior Cervical Fusion With Interfacet Cages: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Laratta Joseph L. , Gupta Karishma , Smith William D.
Published: March 2019

Study Design:

Literature review.

Objectives:

Posterior cervical interfacet cages are an alternative to lateral mass fixation in patients undergoing cervical spine surgery. Recently, a percutaneous, tissue-sparing system for interfacet cage placement has been developed, however, there is limited clinical evidence supporting its widespread use. The aim was to review studies published on this system for patient reported outcomes, radiographic outcomes, intraoperative outcomes, and complications.

Methods:

Four electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and MEDLINE) were queried for original published studies that evaluated the percutaneous, tissue-sparing technique for posterior cervical fusion with interfacet cage placement. All studies reporting on open techniques and purely biomechanical studies were excluded.

Results:

The extensive literature search returned 7852 studies. After systematic review, a total of 7 studies met inclusion criteria. Studies were independently classified as retrospective or prospective cohort studies and each assessed by the GRADE criteria. Patient reported outcomes, radiographic outcomes, intraoperative outcomes, and complications were extracted from each study and presented.

Conclusions:

Tissue-sparing, posterior cervical fusion with interfacet cages may be considered a safe and effective surgical intervention in patients failing conservative management for cervical spondylotic disease. However, the quality of evidence in the literature is lacking, and controlled, comparative studies are needed for definitive assessment.
The Role of Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion on Relieving Axial Neck Pain in Patients With Single-Level Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Oitment Colby , Watson Tracy , Lam Victor , Aref Mohammed , Koziarz Alex , Kachur Edward , Badhiwala Jetan H. , Almenawer Saleh A. , Cenic Aleksa
Published: March 2019

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objectives:

This study aims to evaluate the effects of anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) on axial neck pain in adult patients receiving surgery for myelopathy, radiculopathy, or a combination of both.

Methods:

Two independent reviewers completed a librarian-assisted search of 4 databases. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores were extracted preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 48+ months postoperatively for ACDF groups and pooled using a random-effects model.

Results:

Of 17 850 eligible studies, 37 were included for analysis, totaling 2138 patients analyzed with VAS and 2477 with NDI score. Individual VAS mean differences were reduced at 6 weeks (−2.5 [95% confidence interval (CI): −3.5 to −1.6]), 3 months (−2.9 [−3.7 to −2.2]), 6 months (−3.2 [−3.9 to −2.6]), 12 months (−3.7 [−4.3 to −3.1]), 24 months (−4.0 [−4.4 to −3.5]), 48 months (−4.6 [−5.5 to −3.8]), and >48 months (−4.7 [−5.8 to −3.6]) follow-up ( P < .0001 for all endpoints). Individual NDI mean differences were reduced at 6 weeks (−26.7 [−30.9 to −22.6]), 3 months (−29.8 [−32.7 to −26.8]), 6 months (−31.2 [−35.5 to −26.8)], 12 months (−29.3 [−33.2 to −25.4]), 24 months (−28.9 [−32.6 to −25.2]), 48 months (−33.1 [−37.4 to −28.7]), and >48 months (−37.6 [−45.9 to −29.3]) follow-up ( P < .0001 for all endpoints).

Conclusions:

ACDF is associated with a significant reduction in axial neck pain compared with preoperative values in patients being treated specifically for myelopathy or radiculopathy. This influences the preoperative discussions surgeons may have with patients regarding their expectations for surgery. The effects seen are stable over time and represent a clinically significant reduction in axial neck pain.
Could the Adoption of Organizational Ambidexterity Have Changed the History of Nokia?
Authors: Sulphey M. M.
Published: March 2019

Nokia, more than a century-old company, rose to stardom as the market leader for mobile phones in the 1990s and continued to be so until the early 2000s. Thereafter, the decline of Nokia started. The firm had to sell many of its assets and its mobile phone division to Microsoft. It later became a truncated company and ultimately faded into oblivion. Management and academic experts have analysed the reason for the failure of Nokia from various dimensions. The present work analyses Nokia’s failure from the viewpoint of organizational ambidexterity (OA). OA is defined as the ‘ability to simultaneously explore and exploit, enabling a firm to succeed at adaption over time rather than pursuing limited activities’. This can be considered as the first attempt to analyse the failure of Nokia through the lens of ambidexterity. It is concluded with compelling evidence that the story of Nokia would have been different had it followed exploitation and exploration simultaneously.
Green Kitchen Family Restaurant: Managing the New Age Customer
Authors: Nandini A. Satya , Kumar R. Ganesh
Published: March 2019

This case study presents a stormy incident at Green Kitchen Family Restaurant (GKFR) about a service delay. A group of customers came to the restaurant after a tiresome journey and the hunger was visible on their faces. After taking the order, the steward usually briefs the customer about the delivery time. As the steward who handled that table was a newcomer and he missed informing them the delivery time. The peak hour rush on that day was just that they had to wait for a little extra than usual. This aggravated the anger of the customer which resulted in a poor feedback and a complaint posted on Google+ about the service delay at GKFR. Now the task before the founder is, how to deal with such complaints from a tech-savvy customer and the need to understand the nature and implications of the social media network posts to devise optimal service recovery mechanisms for better customer relationship management.
EnviGreen Biotech: An Eco-friendly Alternative to Plastic Bags
Authors: Tudu Preshita Neha , Yadav Rambalak
Published: March 2019

The case is about EnviGreen Biotech which produces an alternative to plastic bags that is 100 per cent organic, biodegradable and recyclable. The case focuses on how the concept of sustainability is being incorporated into the organization. Currently, the EnviGreen bags are manufactured in India and are being exported to South East Asian and Middle East countries. Along with this, the company has also started manufacturing bags for the organized retailers in India, but still to enter into the retail consumer market. The case ends up with the discussion that whether EnviGreen Biotech should enter into the B2C market in India or not as the products are costlier than plastic bags and price sensitive nature of Indian consumers is a major concern.
Clinical and radiologic outcomes following resection of primary proximal fibula tumors: Proximal fibula resection outcomes
Authors: Arikan Yavuz , Misir Abdulhamit , Gur Volkan , Kizkapan Turan Bilge , Dincel Yasar Mahsut , Akman Yunus Emre
Published: March 2019

Purpose:

Reconstruction of the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) and biceps femoris tendon following proximal fibula resection is controversial. Postoperative knee instability and peroneal nerve dysfunction affect outcome. This study aimed to determine functional, clinical, and radiological outcomes of patients who underwent en bloc proximal fibula resections and to compare clinical and radiological instability rates for primary repair after type I and type II resections.

Materials and Methods:

Eleven patients with primary tumors of the proximal fibula were included. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score and Lysholm knee score were used in the evaluation of functional outcomes. Clinical outcome was assessed using knee range of motion and knee varus stress test. Radiological outcome was assessed using varus stress knee radiographs. Knee stability was evaluated using the varus stress test at 30° of knee flexion and varus stress knee radiographs and graded in millimeters.

Results:

Of the 11 tumors, 6 (54.6%) underwent type I resection. In five (45.4%) patients, type II resection was performed. The mean follow-up period was 32 ± 13.9 months (range, 12–55 months; median, 27 months). The mean knee joint lateral opening, MSTS score, and Lysholm knee score with type I versus type II resection were 5.7 ± 1.2 mm versus 6.4 ± 1.1 mm ( p = 0.247), 28.7 ± 1.8 (95.6%) versus 20.4 ± 7.7 (68%) ( p = 0.011), and 92.2 ± 8.8 versus 62.8 ± 20.4 ( p = 0.026), respectively. Postoperative complications of all patients included one (9.1%) deep tissue infection and one (9.1%) long-term knee instability. In one patient (9.1%) who underwent type II resection, above-the-knee amputation was performed after local recurrence.

Conclusions:

Primary repair of the LCL and biceps femoris tendon to the surrounding soft tissues after resection of proximal fibular tumors provides good clinical outcomes. Primary repair is a simple technique to perform with minimal morbidity. Peroneal nerve palsy was a problem, especially in type II resections. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level III.
Surgical treatment of anterior cervical osteophytes causing dysphagia
Authors: Ruetten Sebastian , Baraliakos Xenophon , Godolias Georgios , Komp Martin
Published: March 2019

Purpose:

Dysphagia due to anterior cervical osteophytes is a rare condition. However, it can become serious enough to permanently impair the quality of life up to making normal food intake impossible. If conservative treatment fails, there is the option of surgical resection of the osteophytes. The objective of this study was to assess the outcomes of resections of anterior cervical osteophytes causing spondylogenic dysphagia, taking literature into consideration.

Method:

Resection of anterior cervical osteophytes using a standard anterior approach was performed in 14 consecutive patients with spondylogenic dysphagia between 2009 and 2015. Indomethacin or radiation was used to prevent recurrence. Imaging and clinical data were collected in follow-up examinations over an average of 50 months.

Results:

The osteophytes were sufficiently resected in all cases. Anterior plates were placed in three patients due to pronounced segmental mobility. Five patients were given recurrence prevention in the form of indomethacin, nine with radiation. One patient required revision surgery for a hematoma. No other serious complications were observed. All patients had significant improvement of their symptoms. No recurrences or signs of increasing instability were found during the follow-up period.

Conclusion:

When conservative treatment fails, surgical resection of cervical osteophytes is a sufficient method for treating spondylogenic dysphagia. High patient satisfaction and improvement of the quality of life are achieved with a low complication rate. Routine additional stabilization has been discussed as recurrence prevention. Prophylaxis using indomethacin or radiation, known primarily from hip replacement, also appears to be an option.
The Relationship Between Hospital Interdepartmental Transfers and Patient Experience
Authors: Mortensen Betty , Borkowski Nancy , O’Connor Stephen J , Patrician Patricia A , Weech-Maldonado Robert
Published: March 2019

This study examined the association between interdepartmental transfers and the perceptions of care received by adult patients who were admitted and discharged from a 300-bed, not-for-profit community tertiary hospital in the Midwest. Transfers of patient care are daily and frequent hospital processes. However, limited attention has focused on the effect that intrahospital transfers of care have on the patient experience. Understanding this relationship is important, since value-based purchasing models directly tie patient experience measures into hospital reimbursements. The key finding of this study indicates that as patients’ transfers increase, their perceptions of care decrease. Therefore, by reducing the frequency of interdepartmental transfers, patient satisfaction may increase. This research provides clinicians and administrators a better understanding of the relationship between a frequent and a daily hospital process (ie, interdepartmental transfers) and its influence on patients’ perceptions of their experience.
Design of Temperature-Responsive Polymer-Grafted Surfaces for Cell Sheet Preparation and Manipulation
Authors: Kobayashi Jun , Okano Teruo
Published: March 2019

This review focuses on the design of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PIPAAm)-grafted surfaces for cell sheet preparation and manipulation, which are revolutionary tools for the creation of transplantable two-dimensional (2D) and engineered three-dimensional (3D) cellular tissues. Particularly, the thickness of grafted PIPPAm chains in the perpendicular direction is regulated to achieve temperature-dependent alteration of cell sheet preparation/harvesting. The 2D positioning of grafted PIPAAm in a direction parallel to the material surfaces facilitates spatially controlled micropatterns containing heterotypic cells. This review also describes the 2D manipulation of cell sheets and the creation of cell sheet-layered 3D tissue using the PIPAAm-grafted surface. With the aid of supporting materials such as membranes and gelatin hydrogels, cell sheets on PIPAAm-grafted surfaces can be manipulated and applied for transplantation in clinical settings and for the formation of 3D tissues in vitro. For the next generation of cell sheet-based tissue engineering, a challenging issue is the creation of large, thick tissues/organs such as cardiac and hepatic tissues/organs. The integration of various technologies including bioreactors and micropatterning is essential to achieve the creation of functional engineered 3D organs.
Temperature and Decisions: Evidence from 207,000 Court Cases
Authors: Heyes Anthony , Saberian Soodeh
Published: March 2019

We analyze the impact of outdoor temperature on high-stakes decisions (immigration adjudications) made by professional decision-makers (US immigration judges). In our preferred specification, which includes spatial, temporal, and judge fixed effects, and controls for various potential confounders, a 10°F degree increase in case-day temperature reduces decisions favorable to the applicant by 6.55 percent. This is despite judgements being made indoors, “protected ” by climate control. Results are consistent with established links from temperature to mood and risk appetite and have important implications for evaluating the influence of climate on “cognitive output.” (JEL K37, K41, Q54)
Soft Commitments, Reminders, and Academic Performance
Authors: Himmler Oliver , Jäckle Robert , Weinschenk Philipp
Published: March 2019

We provide first evidence that a soft commitment device enhances progress in education and, more generally, improves the completion of complex tasks—such as passing exams. In our field experiment, students can sign a nonbinding agreement and commit to staying on track for graduation. We find that those who were offered the soft commitment device are more likely to sign up for, take part in, and pass exams. A pure reminder treatment does not change behavior, which suggests that the effects are not driven by increased salience. We also show that procrastinators benefit most from the commitment device. (JEL C93, D12, D91, I23)
Method validation to assess in vivo cellular and subcellular changes in buccal mucosa cells and saliva following CBCT examinations
Authors: Belmans Niels , Gilles Liese , Virag Piroska , Hedesiu Mihaela , Salmon Benjamin , Baatout Sarah , Lucas Stéphane , Jacobs Reinhilde , Lambrichts Ivo , Moreels Marjan
Published: March 2019

Objectives:

Cone-beam CT (CBCT) is a medical imaging technique used in dental medicine. However, there are no conclusive data available indicating that exposure to X-ray doses used by CBCT are harmless. We aim, for the first time, to characterize the potential age-dependent cellular and subcellular effects related to exposure to CBCT imaging. Current objective is to describe and validate the protocol for characterization of cellular and subcellular changes after diagnostic CBCT.

Methods:

Development and validation of a dedicated two-part protocol: 1) assessing DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) in buccal mucosal (BM) cells and 2) oxidative stress measurements in saliva samples. BM cells and saliva samples are collected prior to and 0.5 h after CBCT examination. BM cells are also collected 24 h after CBCT examination. DNA DSBs are monitored in BM cells via immunocytochemical staining for γH2AX and 53BP1. 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG) and total antioxidant capacity are measured in saliva to assess oxidative damage.

Results:

Validation experiments show that sufficient BM cells are collected (97.1 ± 1.4 %) and that γH2AX/53BP1 foci can be detected before and after CBCT examination. Collection and analysis of saliva samples, either sham exposed or exposed to IR, show that changes in 8-oxo-dG and total antioxidant capacity can be detected in saliva samples after CBCT examination.

Conclusion:

The DIMITRA Research Group presents a two-part protocol to analyze potential age-related biological differences following CBCT examinations. This protocol was validated for collecting BM cells and saliva and for analyzing these samples for DNA DSBs and oxidative stress markers, respectively.
THE ANTI-ECHINOCOCCIASIS CAMPAIGN IN CYPRUS
Authors: ΠΟΛΥΔΩΡΟΥ Κ.
Published: March 2019

The author is referring to the anti - echinococciasis en npaign in Cyprus which started in February 1971. A 15 years program was arranged in order to obtain a complete eradication of the disease. Since the application of this program that is 2 1/2 years 33.748 stray dogs were killed and 2.532 female dogs became sterile by hysterectomy. Information about the disease and its dangers was given by specialized persons or groups to different State staff, slaughterhouses staff, animal breeders, schools» housewives etc. Complementary measures were taken : registration and taxation of dogs» disinfestation etc. The results of this campaign are already very satisfactory. The infestation rate in young ruminants and swine was reduced 83,3 - 95% and in dogs 58.8%. Especially the infestation rate in dogs beign 6.8% during 1972 dropped to 2.8% in the first six months of 1973. The echinococciasis which was a scourge for the animal breeding and the Public Health of Cyprus is on the way of its definite eradication.
Are we missing ‘previously treated’ smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis under programme settings in India? A cross-sectional study
Authors: Shewade Hemant Deepak , Gupta Vivek , Satyanarayana Srinath , Kharate Atul , Murali Lakshmi , Deshpande Madhav , Kumar Naresh , Pandey Prabhat , Bajpai U N , Tripathy Jaya Prasad , Kathirvel Soundappan , Pandurangan Sripriya , Mohanty Subrat , Ghule Vaibhav Haribhau , Sagili Karuna D , Prasad Banuru Muralidhara , Nath Sudhi , Singh Priyanka , Singh Kamlesh , Jayaraman Gurukartick , Rajeswaran P , Srivastava Binod Kumar , Biswas Moumita , Mallick Gayadhar , Bera Om Prakash , Jaisingh A James Jeyakumar , Naqvi Ali Jafar , Verma Prafulla , Ansari Mohammed Salauddin , Mishra Prafulla C , Sumesh G , Barik Sanjeeb , Mathew Vijesh , Lohar Manas Ranjan Singh , Gaurkhede Chandrashekhar S , Parate Ganesh , Bale Sharifa Yasin , Koli Ishwar , Bharadwaj Ashwin Kumar , Venkatraman G , Sathiyanarayanan K , Lal Jinesh , Sharma Ashwini Kumar , Kumar Ajay MV , Chadha Sarabjit S
Published: March 2019

Background: In 2007, a field observation from India reported 11% misclassification among ‘new’ patients registered under the revised national tuberculosis (TB) control programme. Ten years down the line, it is important to know what proportion of newly registered patients has a past history of TB treatment.

Methods: A study was conducted among new smear-positive pulmonary TB patients registered between March 2016 and February 2017 in 18 randomly selected districts to determine the effectiveness of an active case-finding strategy in marginalised and vulnerable populations. We included all patients detected through active case-finding. An equal number of randomly selected patients registered through passive case-finding from marginalised and vulnerable populations in the same districts were included. Before enrolment, we enquired about any history of previous TB treatment through interviews.

Results: Of 629 patients, we interviewed 521, of whom, 11% (n=56) had past history of TB treatment (public or private) for at least a month: 13% (34/268) among the active case-finding group and 9% (22/253) among the passive case-finding group (p=0.18). No factors were found to be significantly associated with misclassification.

Conclusion: Around one in every ten patients registered as ‘new’ had previous history of TB treatment. Corrective measures need to be implemented, followed by monitoring of any change in the proportion of ‘previously treated’ patients among all registered patients treated under the programme at national level.
Case Report: Cryptococcal meningitis in an immunocompetent patient in Nepal - challenges in diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Jha Ashish , Adhikari Sudeep , Sigdel Keshav Raj , Paudyal Buddhi , Basnyat Buddha , Kayastha Gyan , Pradhan Sumita , Risal Ujjwol , Poudel Jiwan
Published: March 2019

A 50 year old woman from Nepal had clinical features suggestive of meningitis. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was normal except for the presence of cryptococcal antigen. The inclusion of test for Cryptococcus in the CSF helped in making the diagnosis of cryptococcal meningitis in our patient who was apparently immunocompetent. Treatment with liposomal amphotericin B could not be started on time due financial constraints. The patient had a stroke and further deteriorated. Liposomal amphotericin B is stocked by the government of Nepal for free supply to patients with visceral leishmaniasis, but the policy does not allow the drug to be dispensed for other infections. The family members of our patient acquired the drug within a few days from a government center using their political connections and following administering the treatment the patient improved. This case demonstrates the utility of considering cryptococcal meningitis as a differential diagnosis, and including tests for Cryptococcus when dealing with immunocompetent patients presenting with meningitis. It also demonstrates the effects of the sociopolitical situation on health care delivery in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Nepal.
A vulnerable generation? Youth agency facing work precariousness
Authors: Rebughini Paola
Published: March 2019

Agencia y vulnerabilidad no son términos alternativos; al contrario, su encuentro hace emerger una característica distintiva de la agencia: la del “débil” que se enfrenta con dificultad a las restricciones y que descubre nuevas oportunidades. Tras  una discusión teórica en torno a la relación entre agencia y vulnerabilidad y de las transformaciones de los procesos de subjetivación, este artículo se centra en la situación específica de vulnerabilidad en el mercado de trabajo que vive la actual generación de jóvenes. El texto analiza, apoyándose en una investigación realizada en Italia entre 2013 y 2017, los límites y potencialidades de la agencia de los jóvenes como una obligación en un contexto de precariedad en el trabajo. El objetivo es recalcar cómo agencia y vulnerabilidad —más que ser características intrínsecas del individuo— han de entenderse en relación con posiciones temporales, en la intersección de categorías y recursos, en condiciones situadas y relacionales.
Irakasle ofizioa ikasten: Practicumaren esperientzia
Authors: Iriondo Arana Itziar , Plazaola Itziar , Zulaika Teresa
Published: March 2019

ABSTRACTThis paper presents the results of a research study focusing on a training environment designed to foster the teaching skills of novice teachers. The study is located within the field of videobased training, which in turn forms part of the research and training approach known as activity analysis. The focus of study is a teaching Practicum. Identifying the process through which novice teachersmust go to become expert teachers leads us to explore a highly complex and interlinked series of phenomena. The paper will highlight the specific characteristics of novice teachers’ activity, the development of their training, one typical activity linked to language teaching and the need for collaborationagreements between schools and universities.KEYWORDS: teacher education, activity analysis, self-confrontation, work environment, Practicum.LABURPENAIrakaslegaiak hizkuntzaren irakaskuntzan trebatzeko antolatutako prestakuntza inguramenduaren ikerketaz arituko gara artikulu honetan. Lana bideo-formazioaren esparruan kokatzen da, jardueraren azterketa izeneko prestakuntza eta ikerketa korrontean. Practicumaren esperientzia du aztergune. Irakasle hasiberriak aditu bihurtzeko garatu behar duen ibilbidea ezagutzeak elkarlotutako fenomenoen konplexutasunera garamatza. Artikuluan zehar azpimarratuko dira hasiberriaren jardueraren berariazkotasuna, horren prestakuntzaren garapena, hizkuntzaren didaktikarekin lotutako jarduera tipiko bat eta eskolaren eta unibertsitatearen arteko hitzarmen beharra.GAKO-HITZAK: irakasleen prestakuntza, jardueraren azterketa, autobehaketa, prestakuntza inguramendua, Practicumaren esperientzia.
Uso de películas pós-colheita para a manutenção dos atributos visuais e produção de etileno em mini-abóboras ornamentais
Authors: Schwab Natalia Teixeira , Both Vanderlei , Buffon Paola Ana , Führ Airton , Binsfeld Manuela Cristine
Published: March 2019

In recent years, consumers have shown interest in the ornamental use of some fruits that were previously used mainly for food purposes. However, the use of ‘mini-pumpkins’ for ornamentation can be limited by post-harvest aspects, such as skin depigmentation, fresh mass losses, ethylene production and respiration, which compromise the visual quality of the product, resulting in the loss of its ornamental value. The objective was to evaluate the effect of films application (control, carnauba wax, cassava starch and corn starch) in post-harvest of ornamental mini-pumpkins, aiming the shelf life prolongation (experiment 1) and reduction of ethylene production and respiration (experiment 2). The results obtained in experiment 1 pointed to lower mass loss and maintenance of the ornamental mini-pumpkins epidermis color with the application of carnauba wax film. In experiment 2, the application of carnauba wax and the ethylene action inhibitor (1-MCP) did not and respiration production of mini-pumpkins, suggesting that ethylene is not involved in the modifications that occur in the product during the time of exposure to the environment.
Noninvasive Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome via Bowel Sound Features: Proof of Concept
Authors: Du Xuhao , Allwood Gary , Webberley K. Mary , Inderjeeth Andrisha-Jade , Osseiran Adam , Marshall Barry James
Published: March 2019

INTRODUCTION:

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common and debilitating disorder estimated to affect approximately 11% of the world's population. Typically, IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion after patients undergo a costly and invasive colonoscopy to exclude organic disease. Clinician's and researchers have identified a need for a new cost-effective, accurate, and noninvasive diagnostic test for IBS.

METHODS:

Using a diagnostic case-control study, we explored the use of bowel sounds to characterize IBS with a view to diagnostic use. We recruited participants with an existing clinical diagnosis of IBS or healthy (asymptomatic) digestive systems. We recorded bowel sounds for 2 hours after fasting and then for 40 minutes after a standard meal.

RESULTS:

We here report our results including our accuracy in characterizing IBS-related bowel sounds and differentiation between participants with IBS and healthy participants. Leave-one-out cross-validation of our model developed using the first 31 IBS and 37 healthy participants gave 90% sensitivity and 92% specificity for IBS diagnosis. Independent testing using the next 15 IBS and 15 healthy participants demonstrated 87% sensitivity and 87% specificity for IBS diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS:

These preliminary results provide proof of concept for the use of bowel sound analysis to identify IBS. A prospective study is needed to confirm these findings.

TRANSLATIONAL IMPACT:

Our belt and model offer hope of a new approach for IBS diagnosis in primary practice. Combined with screening tests for organic disease, it would offer greater confidence to patients and could reduce the burden of unnecessary colonoscopies for health care systems and patients.
The effect of addition selected amino acids in extender semen on quality and DNA stability of frozen-thawed Sumba Ongole bull spermatozoa
Authors: Said Syahruddin , Setiorini Setiorini , Adella Amaitshaa , Sari Indah , Fathaniah Nursafira , Maulana Tulus
Published: March 2019

The objective of the current study was to asses the optimal concentration of glutamine, glycine and cysteine amino acids in tris-citric-acid-fructose egg yolks (TCFY) extender on quality of SO bull spermatozoa during freezing and thawing. In this study the DNA stability of frozen-thawed Sperm was also indentified. Three mature bulls maintained at PT. Karya Anugerah Rumpin, private cattle breeding company, West Java, Indonesia were used as semen donors. Semen was collected using artificial vagina and were evaluated prior to freezing. Semen was diluted with TCFY supplemented with different concentrations of amino acids (5, 15 and 25 mM glycine and glutamine, and 3, 5 and 7 mM cysteine) then processed for colling and freezing. Semen quality parameters (subjective motility, viability and membrane and DNA integrity). Data showed that in general the effect of addition of selected amino acids (glycine, glutamine and cysteine) into TCFY extenders on motility, viability and membrane integrity of SO spermatozoa after cooling were significantly different (p<0.05) higher than that of control. Addition of 15 mM glycine, 15 mM glutamine and 5 mM cysteine resulted in significant (p<0.05) increase post-thawing sperm motility and sperm viability as compared to that of control. Furthermore, when spermatozoa were stained with acridine orange after fixation with acetic alcohol, the DNA integrity of post-thawing spermatozoa showed that all spermatozoa were remain intact. In conclusion ,addition of 15 mM glycine, glutamine and 5 mM cysteine increase the cryoprotecting efficacy of bovine bull cryopreservation extender, and furthermore all DNA spermatozoa were remain intact. 
HEALTH EXPENDITURE, ECONOMIC GROWTH, AND CO2 EMISSIONS: EVIDENCE FROM THE OECD COUNTRIES
Authors: GÖVDELİ Tuncer
Published: March 2019

The
present study investigates the correlation between health expenditure, economic
growth, and CO2 emissions in 26 OECD countries during the period of
1992-2014. First of all, cross-sectional dependence of the variables and the
panel was assessed with a view to identify the panel methods usable for this
purpose. Given the prevalence of cross-sectional dependence regarding the
variables and the panel, the panel unit root and cointegration test was chosen
from among second generation tests. The variables were found to be stationary
at order I(1). Moreover, the model was found to exhibit a cointegration
relationship. In the light of estimations of the cointegration factors, the
elasticity coefficients of economic growth and CO2 emissions were
predicted to be 0.188 and 0.012 respectively. According to the results of VECM
Granger causality analysis, economic growth as well as CO2 emissions
are causative with respect to health expenditure, whereas economic growth, once
again, is causative with respect to CO2 emissions. A long-term
causality analysis, in turn, revealed a direct correlation whereby economic
growth and CO2 emissions lead to increased health expenditure.
İLKÖĞRETİM KURUMLARINDA ÇALIŞAN ÖĞRETMENLERİN DERS DENETİMİNE İLİŞKİN KAYGI DÜZEYLERİ
Authors: KARASU Yasin , CÖMERT Melike
Published: March 2019

Bu araştırmanın
amacı ilköğretim okullarında görev yapan sınıf ve branş öğretmenlerinin kurum
yöneticisi tarafından yapılan ders denetimi sırasında yaşamış oldukları kaygı
düzeylerini belirlemektir. Araştırma nicel bir araştırma olup tarama modeli
kullanılmıştır. Veri toplama aracı olarak Karakaya ve diğerleri(2011) tarafından
geliştirilen “Denetim
Kaygısı Ölçeği” kullanılmış olup toplanan veriler SPSS-23 programı ile analiz
edilmiştir. Verilerin analizinde Kruskal Wallis ve Mann
Whitney U analizleri yapılmıştır. Araştırmanın Evrenini 2018-2019
Eğitim-Öğretim yılında Adıyaman İli Merkez ilçede görev yapan ilkokul ve
ortaokul öğretmenleri oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmanın örneklemi, tabakalı
örnekleme yöntemi ile seçilmiş olup 82 sınıf ve 182 branş öğretmeninden
oluşmaktadır. Elde edilen bulgulara göre, öğretmenler denetim sırasında genel
olarak orta düzeyde kaygı yaşamakta olup, 
kadın öğretmenlerin yaşadığı denetim kaygısı düzeyi erkek öğretmenlerin
yaşadığı denetim kaygısı düzeyinden daha fazladır. Ayrıca kaygı düzeyleri
medeni durum ve branş değişkenlerine göre ölçeğin alt boyutları açısından
farklılık göstermektedir.