bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dengue Infection Spectrum in Guangzhou: A Cross-Sectional Seroepidemiology Study among Community Residents between 2013 and 2015
Authors: Liu Jundi , Deng Yu , Jing Qinlong , Chen Xiashi , Du Zhicheng , Liang Tianzhu , Yang Zhicong , Zhang Dingmei , Hao Yuantao
Published: June 2018

The majority of dengue virus infections are asymptomatic, which could potentially facilitate the transmission of dengue fever and increase the percentage of sever dengue fever manifestations. This cross-sectional study explored the sero-prevalence of dengue virus infection in Guangzhou to clarify the infection spectrum. In total, 2085 serum samples were collected from residents of 34 communities. All samples were selected from a 200,000-sample database holding serum collected from community residents living in Liwan and Yuexiu districts of Guangzhou between September 2013 and August 2015, and 17 to 28 individuals of each age group were chosen per month. Dengue immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Symptomatic infected individuals were identified via follow-up questionnaires. Among 2085 serum samples, anti-dengue IgG and IgM positive rates were 11.80% and 3.98%, respectively. The IgG antibody positive rate increased with age and was higher in poorly educated people than in highly educated people and in married individuals than in single individuals. Approximately 96.71% of dengue virus infections and an estimated 13.68% of the whole population were asymptomatic. Such high asymptomatic-infection rates have an impact on the local spread of dengue fever. Stricter surveillance, such as a network of rapid diagnostic laboratories, screening of residents in the epidemic season, and other integrated control measures are necessary.
Eigenvector Spatial Filtering Regression Modeling of Ground PM2.5 Concentrations Using Remotely Sensed Data
Authors: Zhang Jingyi , Li Bin , Chen Yumin , Chen Meijie , Fang Tao , Liu Yongfeng
Published: June 2018

This paper proposes a regression model using the Eigenvector Spatial Filtering (ESF) method to estimate ground PM2.5 concentrations. Covariates are derived from remotely sensed data including aerosol optical depth, normal differential vegetation index, surface temperature, air pressure, relative humidity, height of planetary boundary layer and digital elevation model. In addition, cultural variables such as factory densities and road densities are also used in the model. With the Yangtze River Delta region as the study area, we constructed ESF-based Regression (ESFR) models at different time scales, using data for the period between December 2015 and November 2016. We found that the ESFR models effectively filtered spatial autocorrelation in the OLS residuals and resulted in increases in the goodness-of-fit metrics as well as reductions in residual standard errors and cross-validation errors, compared to the classic OLS models. The annual ESFR model explained 70% of the variability in PM2.5 concentrations, 16.7% more than the non-spatial OLS model. With the ESFR models, we performed detail analyses on the spatial and temporal distributions of PM2.5 concentrations in the study area. The model predictions are lower than ground observations but match the general trend. The experiment shows that ESFR provides a promising approach to PM2.5 analysis and prediction.
Molecular Genetics of Frontotemporal Dementia Elucidated by Drosophila Models—Defects in Endosomal–Lysosomal Pathway
Authors: Vandal Sarah E. , Zheng Xiaoyue , Ahmad S. Tariq
Published: June 2018

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the second most common senile neurodegenerative disease. FTD is a heterogeneous disease that can be classified into several subtypes. A mutation in CHMP2B locus (CHMP2Bintron5), which encodes a component of endosomal sorting complex required for transport-III (ESCRT-III), is associated with a rare hereditary subtype of FTD linked to chromosome 3 (FTD-3). ESCRT is involved in critical cellular processes such as multivesicular body (MVB) formation during endosomal–lysosomal pathway and autophagy. ESCRT mutants causes diverse physiological defects primarily due to accumulation of endosomes and defective MVBs resulting in misregulation of signaling pathways. Charged multivesicular body protein 2B (CHMP2B) is important for neuronal physiology which especially rely on precise regulation of protein homeostasis due to their post-mitotic status. Drosophila has proven to be an excellent model for charaterization of mechanistic underpinning of neurodegenerative disorders including FTD. In this review, current understanding of various FTD-related mutations is discussed with a focus on Drosophila models of CHMP2Bintron5-associated FTD.
Morphological Study of Chitosan/Poly (Vinyl Alcohol) Nanofibers Prepared by Electrospinning, Collected on Reticulated Vitreous Carbon
Authors: Sanchez-Alvarado Diana Isela , Guzmán-Pantoja Javier , Páramo-García Ulises , Maciel-Cerda Alfredo , Martínez-Orozco Reinaldo David , Vera-Graziano Ricardo
Published: June 2018

In this work, chitosan (CS)/poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers were prepared by using the electrospinning method. Different CS concentrations (0.5, 1, 2, and 3 wt %), maintaining the PVA concentration at 8 wt %, were tested. Likewise, the studied electrospinning experimental parameters were: syringe/collector distance, solution flow and voltage. Subsequently, the electrospun fibers were collected on a reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) support for 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 h. The morphology and diameter of the CS/PVA nanofibers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), finding diameters in the order of 132 and 212 nm; the best results (uniform fibers) were obtained from the solution with 2 wt % of chitosan and a voltage, distance, and flow rate of 16 kV, 20 cm, and 0.13 mL/h, respectively. Afterwards, a treatment with an ethanolic NaOH solution was performed, observing a change in the fiber morphology and a diameter decrease (117 ± 9 nm).
Design, Synthesis, Cytotoxic Evaluation and Molecular Docking of New Fluoroquinazolinones as Potent Anticancer Agents with Dual EGFR Kinase and Tubulin Polymerization Inhibitory Effects
Authors: Zayed Mohamed F. , Ahmed Sahar , Ihmaid Saleh , Ahmed Hany E. A. , Rateb Heba S. , Ibrahim Sabrin R. M.
Published: June 2018

A series of new fluoroquinazolinone 6–8 and 10a–g derivatives was designed, prepared and screened for their in vitro cytotoxic activity against human cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MBA-231. Compounds 6 (IC50 = 0.35 ± 0.01 µM), 10f (IC50 = 0.71 ± 0.01 µM), 10d (IC50 = 0.89 ± 0.02 µM) and 10a (IC50 = 0.95 ± 0.01 µM) displayed broad spectrum anticancer activity better than the reference drug gefitinib (IC50 = 0.97 ± 0.02 µM) against MCF-7. Compounds 10e (IC50 = 0.28 ± 0.02 µM), 10d (IC50 = 0.38 ± 0.01 µM), 7 (IC50 = 0.94 ± 0.07 µM) and 10c (IC50 = 1.09 ± 0.01 µM) showed better activity than the reference gefitinib (IC50 = 1.30 ± 0.04 µM) against MDA-MBA-231. Moreover, EGFR and tubulin inhibition assays were performed for the highest active derivatives and showed remarkable results comparing to the reference drugs. In order to assess and explain their binding affinities, molecular docking simulation was studied against EGFR and tubulin binding sites. The results obtained from molecular docking study and those obtained from cytotoxic screening were correlated.
Microstructure and Properties of Thermal Electrode Material Si3N4–MoSi2 Composite Ceramics
Authors: Feng Lichao , Guan Pengfei , Yu Xuemei , He Yiqiang
Published: June 2018

With good high temperature and corrosive resistance performance, ceramic based composites can be used as promising materials to replace metal thermocouple materials. In this study, Si3N4–MoSi2 composites were prepared via hot pressing technology. X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy (OM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to analyze the microstructure of the composites. The mechanical properties and electrical conductivity were tested. The results showed that the composites were composed of β-Si3N4, MoSi2, a small amount of Mo5Si3, and an amorphous glassy phase. The MoSi2 phase was evenly distributed in the matrix. The percolation network was formed with increasing MoSi2 content. The strength of the composites reached its maximum value when the MoSi2 content reached a critical point. The electrical conductivity behaved like a typical percolation phenomenon. The percolation threshold was about 30% to 45%.
Factors determining age-related macular degeneration: a current view
Authors: Liutkevičienė Rasa , Lesauskaitė Vaiva , Ašmonienė Virginija , Žaliūnienė Dalia , Jašinskas Vytautas
Published: June 2018

Age-related macular degeneration affects the macula and is the leading cause of significant and irreversible central visual loss. It is the most common cause of visual loss in people older than 60 years. The pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration is complex and not completely understood. It is thought that age-related macular degeneration has a multifactorial etiology, the development of which may be caused by interrelation of environmental and genetic factors and body characteristics. In this article, risk factors such as age, gender, cigarette smoking, color of the iris, nutrition, body mass index, oxidative stress, and genetic factors (complement factor H gene, Apo E gene, and others) are reviewed. Here, choroidal neovascularization process, in which hypoxia, inflammatory process, and proteolytic enzymes play a determinant role, is discussed. Considerable attention is paid to genetic polymorphism of matrix metalloproteinases, especially to matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9, respectively gelatinases A and B, also to matrix metalloproteinase 9.
Type III longitudinal deficiency of the tibia and outcome of reconstructive surgery in a female patient
Authors: Brdar Radivoj , Petronic Ivana , Abramovic Dusan , Lukac Marija , Cirovic Dragana , Knezevic Tatjana , Nikolic Dejan
Published: June 2018

Type III longitudinal deficiency of tibia according to Kalamchi and Dawe denotes the presence of distal hypoplasia of the tibia with diastasis. We report a case of type III longitudinal deficiency of the tibia in a female patient who later underwent reconstructive surgery. The first reconstruction of the leg was done when child turned 4 months of age. Surgical procedures included foot reconstruction and ankle stabilization with twice lengthening by the Ilizarov method (14 cm in total). During the follow-up, both the tibia and fibula of the affected leg showed the same lengthening and regression due to preserved distal growth zone cartilage. After surgical correction, the acetabulum was satisfactorily configured with an acetabular angle of 23 degrees. Explanation for surgical success was that osteotomy and distraction were done in the proximal part of the crural region where the growth potential was better. The tibia remained lean and hypoplastic while the fibula was incrassated. The function in the area of the knee joint was preserved, while the distal part of the leg served as good stand on. When the child was 18 years old, on check-up, the acetabular angle was 23 degrees while the Wiberg angle was 24 degrees.
Aerobic exercise-induced changes in body composition and blood lipids in young women
Authors: Stasiulis Arvydas , Mockienė Asta , Vizbaraitė Daiva , Mockus Pranas
Published: June 2018

The objective of the study was to assess changes in body composition, blood lipid and lipoprotein concentrations in 18–24-year-old women during the period of two-month aerobic cycling training. Material and methods. Young, healthy, nonsmoking women (n=19) volunteered to participate in this study. They were divided in two groups: experimental (E, n=10) and control (C, n=9). The subjects of group E exercised 3 times a week with intensity of the first ventilatory threshold and duration of 60 min. The group C did not exercise regularly over a two-month period of the experiment. The subjects of group E were tested before and after 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks of the experiment. The participants of group C were tested twice with an eight-week interval. Results. Body weight, body mass index, body fat mass, and triacylglycerol (TAG) concentration decreased and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-ch) concentration increased after the 8-week training program in the experimental group (P<0.05). Blood total cholesterol (Tch) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-ch) concentrations did not change significantly. Body weight and body mass index started to decrease after 2 weeks of the experiment, but significant changes were observed only after 6 and 8 weeks. Body fat mass was significantly decreased after 2 and 8 weeks of aerobic training. A significant increase in HDL-ch concentration was observed after 4, 6, and 8 weeks. A significant decrease in TAG concentration was observed after 2-week training. No significant changes in all the parameters except TAG (it was slightly increased) were seen in the control group. Conclusions. The two-month aerobic cycling training (within VT1, 60-min duration, three times a week) may induce significant changes in the parameters of body composition – body weight, body mass index, body fat mass, and blood lipids – in young women. The following significant changes were observed: TAG level decreased after 2 weeks, body mass and body mass index decreased after 6 weeks, body fat mass decreased and HDL-ch level increased after 8 weeks. Peak oxygen uptake increased after 4 weeks.
Cocoa Shell: A By-Product with Great Potential for Wide Application
Authors: Panak Balentić Jelena , Ačkar Đurđica , Jokić Stela , Jozinović Antun , Babić Jurislav , Miličević Borislav , Šubarić Drago , Pavlović Nika
Published: June 2018

Solving the problem of large quantities of organic waste, which represents an enormous ecological and financial burden for all aspects of the process industry, is a necessity. Therefore, there is an emerged need to find specific solutions to utilize raw materials as efficiently as possible in the production process. The cocoa shell is a valuable by-product obtained from the chocolate industry. It is rich in protein, dietary fiber, and ash, as well as in some other valuable bioactive compounds, such as methylxanthines and phenolics. This paper gives an overview of published results related to the cocoa shell, mostly on important bioactive compounds and possible applications of the cocoa shell in different areas. The cocoa shell, due to its nutritional value and high-value bioactive compounds, could become a desirable raw material in a large spectrum of functional, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic products, as well as in the production of energy or biofuels in the near future.
Effect of Sterilization Process and Storage on the Antioxidative Properties of Runner Bean
Authors: Wołosiak Rafał , Drużyńska Beata , Piecyk Małgorzata , Majewska Ewa , Worobiej Elwira
Published: June 2018

In this study, we investigated the effect of standard preservation of bean seeds on changes in contents and activity of their selected components: dry matter, ash, different forms of nitrogen, composition of protein fractions; total phenolics and condensed tannins; ability to chelate iron(II) ions; antiradical activity against ABTS•+ and DPPH•; and capability for inhibiting autoxidation and enzymatic oxidation of linoleic acid. The conducted technological process caused various changes in contents of nitrogen forms and partial loss of phenolic compounds. The antiradical and antioxidative activity of the extracts decreased significantly, while an increase was observed in their ability to chelate Fe(II). These changes were due to the migration of active compounds to the brine, and to their structural transformations and degradation. Longer storage of the sterilized product caused restoration of part of the antiradical activity of the seeds.
Comparison between Tetrel Bonded Complexes Stabilized by σ and π Hole Interactions
Authors: Zierkiewicz Wiktor , Michalczyk Mariusz , Scheiner Steve
Published: June 2018

The σ-hole tetrel bonds formed by a tetravalent molecule are compared with those involving a π-hole above the tetrel atom in a trivalent bonding situation. The former are modeled by TH4, TH3F, and TH2F2 (T = Si, Ge, Sn) and the latter by TH2=CH2, THF=CH2, and TF2=CH2, all paired with NH3 as Lewis base. The latter π-bonded complexes are considerably more strongly bound, despite the near equivalence of the σ and π-hole intensities. The larger binding energies of the π-dimers are attributed to greater electrostatic attraction and orbital interaction. Each progressive replacement of H by F increases the strength of the tetrel bond, whether σ or π. The magnitudes of the maxima of the molecular electrostatic potential in the two types of systems are not good indicators of either the interaction energy or even the full Coulombic energy. The geometry of the Lewis acid is significantly distorted by the formation of the dimer, more so in the case of the σ-bonded complexes, and this deformation intensifies the σ and π holes.
To Be or Not to Be: Environmental Factors that Drive Myelin Formation during Development and after CNS Trauma
Authors: Pukos Nicole , Yoseph Rim , M. McTigue Dana
Published: June 2018

Oligodendrocytes are specialized glial cells that myelinate central nervous system (CNS) axons. Historically, it was believed that the primary role of myelin was to compactly ensheath axons, providing the insulation necessary for rapid signal conduction. However, mounting evidence demonstrates the dynamic importance of myelin and oligodendrocytes, including providing metabolic support to neurons and regulating axon protein distribution. As such, the development and maintenance of oligodendrocytes and myelin are integral to preserving CNS homeostasis and supporting proper functioning of widespread neural networks. Environmental signals are critical for proper oligodendrocyte lineage cell progression and their capacity to form functional compact myelin; these signals are markedly disturbed by injury to the CNS, which may compromise endogenous myelin repair capabilities. This review outlines some key environmental factors that drive myelin formation during development and compares that to the primary factors that define a CNS injury milieu. We aim to identify developmental factors disrupted after CNS trauma as well as pathogenic factors that negatively impact oligodendrocyte lineage cells, as these are potential therapeutic targets to promote myelin repair after injury or disease.
Free-Radical Copolymerization of Dibenzofulvene with (Meth)acrylates Leading to π-Stacked Copolymers
Authors: Luo Jiyue , Wang Yue , Nakano Tamaki
Published: June 2018

Copolymerizations of dibenzofulvene (DBF) with methyl methacrylate (MMA), 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), methyl acrylate (MA), and 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) were conducted under free radical conditions in toluene using α,α′-azobisisobutylonitrile (AIBN) as the initiator. In the copolymerizations, DBF indicated much higher reactivity than the comonomers, and the products comprised mainly of DBF units. NMR, UV, and fluorescence spectra, as well as electrochemical features indicated that the copolymers possess both isolated and rather short, sequential (meth)acrylate units, as well as π-stacked and unstacked DBF sequences. Isolated (meth)acrylate units are proposed to be sandwiched between DBF units. The ratios of π-stacked and unstacked side-chain fluorene groups of DBF units in excited states were accurately determined on the basis of fluorescent emission spectra; DBF units are mostly π-stacked in excited states as disclosed by fluorescence spectra. Two types of π-stacked sequences were suggested to be present in the ground state by electrochemical analysis. The copolymers exhibited higher solubility than pure poly(DBF).
Partial Least Square Discriminant Analysis Based on Normalized Two-Stage Vegetation Indices for Mapping Damage from Rice Diseases Using PlanetScope Datasets
Authors: Shi Yue , Huang Wenjiang , Ye Huichun , Ruan Chao , Xing Naichen , Geng Yun , Dong Yingying , Peng Dailiang
Published: June 2018

In recent decades, rice disease co-epidemics have caused tremendous damage to crop production in both China and Southeast Asia. A variety of remote sensing based approaches have been developed and applied to map diseases distribution using coarse- to moderate-resolution imagery. However, the detection and discrimination of various disease species infecting rice were seldom assessed using high spatial resolution data. The aims of this study were (1) to develop a set of normalized two-stage vegetation indices (VIs) for characterizing the progressive development of different diseases with rice; (2) to explore the performance of combined normalized two-stage VIs in partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA); and (3) to map and evaluate the damage caused by rice diseases at fine spatial scales, for the first time using bi-temporal, high spatial resolution imagery from PlanetScope datasets at a 3 m spatial resolution. Our findings suggest that the primary biophysical parameters caused by different disease (e.g., changes in leaf area, pigment contents, or canopy morphology) can be captured using combined normalized two-stage VIs. PLS-DA was able to classify rice diseases at a sub-field scale, with an overall accuracy of 75.62% and a Kappa value of 0.47. The approach was successfully applied during a typical co-epidemic outbreak of rice dwarf (Rice dwarf virus, RDV), rice blast (Magnaporthe oryzae), and glume blight (Phyllosticta glumarum) in Guangxi Province, China. Furthermore, our approach highlighted the feasibility of the method in capturing heterogeneous disease patterns at fine spatial scales over the large spatial extents.
A Globally Generalized Emotion Recognition System Involving Different Physiological Signals
Authors: Ali Mouhannad , Al Machot Fadi , Haj Mosa Ahmad , Jdeed Midhat , Al Machot Elyan , Kyamakya Kyandoghere
Published: June 2018

Machine learning approaches for human emotion recognition have recently demonstrated high performance. However, only/mostly for subject-dependent approaches, in a variety of applications like advanced driver assisted systems, smart homes and medical environments. Therefore, now the focus is shifted more towards subject-independent approaches, which are more universal and where the emotion recognition system is trained using a specific group of subjects and then tested on totally new persons and thereby possibly while using other sensors of same physiological signals in order to recognize their emotions. In this paper, we explore a novel robust subject-independent human emotion recognition system, which consists of two major models. The first one is an automatic feature calibration model and the second one is a classification model based on Cellular Neural Networks (CNN). The proposed system produces state-of-the-art results with an accuracy rate between 80% and 89% when using the same elicitation materials and physiological sensors brands for both training and testing and an accuracy rate of 71.05% when the elicitation materials and physiological sensors brands used in training are different from those used in training. Here, the following physiological signals are involved: ECG (Electrocardiogram), EDA (Electrodermal activity) and ST (Skin-Temperature).
Melioidosis in Africa: Time to Uncover the True Disease Load
Authors: Steinmetz Ivo , Wagner Gabriel , Kanyala Estelle , Sawadogo Mamadou , Soumeya Hema , Teferi Mekonnen , Andargie Emawayish , Yeshitela Biruk , Yaba Atsé-Achi Louise , Sanogo Moussa , Bonfoh Bassirou , Rakotozandrindrainy Raphael , Pongombo Shongo Célestin , Shongoya Pongombo Mick , Kasamba Ilunga Eric , Lichtenegger Sabine , Assig Karoline , May Jürgen , Bertherat Eric , Owusu Michael , Owusu-Dabo Ellis , Adu-Sarkodie Yaw
Published: June 2018

Melioidosis is an often fatal infectious disease with a protean clinical spectrum, caused by the environmental bacterial pathogen Burkholderia pseudomallei. Although the disease has been reported from some African countries in the past, the present epidemiology of melioidosis in Africa is almost entirely unknown. Therefore, the common view that melioidosis is rare in Africa is not evidence-based. A recent study concludes that large parts of Africa are environmentally suitable for B. pseudomallei. Twenty-four African countries and three countries in the Middle East were predicted to be endemic, but no cases of melioidosis have been reported yet. In this study, we summarize the present fragmentary knowledge on human and animal melioidosis and environmental B. pseudomallei in Africa and the Middle East. We propose that systematic serological studies in man and animals together with environmental investigations on potential B. pseudomallei habitats are needed to identify risk areas for melioidosis. This information can subsequently be used to target raising clinical awareness and the implementation of simple laboratory algorithms for the isolation of B. pseudomallei from clinical specimens. B. pseudomallei was most likely transferred from Asia to the Americas via Africa, which is shown by phylogenetic analyses. More data on the virulence and genomic characteristics of African B. pseudomallei isolates will contribute to a better understanding of the global evolution of the pathogen and will also help to assess potential differences in disease prevalence and outcome.
Magnetic properties of Fe3O4 antidot arrays synthesized by AFIR: atomic layer deposition, focused ion beam and thermal reduction
Authors: Palma Juan L , Pereira Alejandro , Álvaro Raquel , García-Martín José Miguel , Escrig Juan
Published: June 2018

Magnetic films of magnetite (Fe3O4) with controlled defects, so-called antidot arrays, were synthesized by a new technique called AFIR. AFIR consists of the deposition of a thin film by atomic layer deposition, the generation of square and hexagonal arrays of holes using focused ion beam milling, and the subsequent thermal reduction of the antidot arrays. Magnetic characterizations were carried out by magneto-optic Kerr effect measurements, showing the enhancement of the coercivity for the antidot arrays. AFIR opens a new route to manufacture ordered antidot arrays of magnetic oxides with variable lattice parameters.
The Characteristics, Experiences and Perceptions of Registered Massage Therapists in New Zealand: Results from a National Survey of Practitioners
Authors: Cottingham, ND, BHSC, Grad Dip HSC, PG Dip HSc Phillip , Adams, PhD Jon , Vempati, PhD Ram , Dunn, MHSC, BHSc (Comp Med) Jill , Sibbritt, PhD David
Published: June 2018

Background: Massage therapy is widely recognized as offering many health benefits, with a growing number of studies finding it has value in stress management, pain reduction, and overcoming physical limitations. However, there are few studies of massage therapists practices and perceptions in New Zealand and internationally. This paper reports the findings from the first national survey examining the characteristics, perceptions, and experiences of New Zealand-based massage therapists on a range of aspects related to their role and practices.Purpose: This study sought to ascertain the characteristics, experiences, and perceptions of massage therapists in New Zealand, particularly in the aspects of: integration of health care; attitudes and practices related to research; and evidence and attitudes to registration.Setting: Massage practice in New Zealand (nationwide survey).Participants: Members of Massage New Zealand (a massage practitioners association).Research Design: Massage practitioners were surveyed online, using a 65-part questionnaire, on a range of characteristics of their practices and their attitudes to research, integration, and registration. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA. Statistical significance was set at 0.05.Main Outcome Measures: Four hundred massage therapists (MTs) were invited to participate and 115 responded, providing a response rate of 29%. MTs valued research (95%) and perceived that it had an impact for their practices (88%). Significant correlations were found for research value and: mean case-load (p = .009) and level of academic qualification (p = .004). The majority of MTs (79%) supported integration with conventional practitioners, and 83% referred clients to general practitioners, with 75% receiving referrals from general practitioners. Ninety-three percent of MTs supported registration, with 67% of those supporting statutory registration.Conclusion: Massage practitioners perceive that they make a significant contribution to health care, but area of practice, such as research, and referral and integration into mainstream health care require more in-depth investigation.
Trend and Causes of Maternal Mortality in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital: A 5-year Retrospective Study (2010-2014) at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Agan Thomas U. , Monjok Emmanuel , Akpan Ubong B. , Omoronyia Ogban E. , Ekabua John E.
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND: Maternal mortality ratios (MMR) are still unacceptably high in many low-income countries especially in sub-Saharan Africa. MMR had been reported to have improved from an initial 3,026 per 100,000 live births in 1999 to 941 in 2009, at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar, a tertiary health facility in Nigeria. Post-partum haemorrhage and hypertensive diseases of pregnancy have been the common causes of maternal deaths in the facility.AIM: This study was aimed at determining the trend in maternal mortality in the same facility, following institution of some facility-based intervention measures.METHODOLOGY: A retrospective study design was utilised with extraction and review of medical records of pregnancy-related deaths in UCTH, Calabar, from January 2010 to December 2014. The beginning of the review period coincided with the period the “Woman Intervention Trial” was set up to reduce maternal mortality in the facility. This trial consists of the use of Tranexamic acid for prevention of post-partum haemorrhage, as well as more proactive attendance to parturition.RESULTS: There were 13,605 live births and sixty-one (61) pregnancy-related deaths in UCTH during the study period. This yielded a facility Maternal Mortality Ratio of 448 per 100,000 live births. In the previous 11-year period of review, there was sustained the decline in MMR by 72.9% in the initial four years (from 793 in 2010 to 215 in 2013), with the onset of resurgence to 366 in the last year (2014). Mean age at maternal death was 27 ± 6.5 years, with most subjects (45, 73.8%) being within 20-34 years age group. Forty-eight (78.7%) were married, 26 (42.6%) were unemployed, and 33 (55.7%) had at least secondary level of education. Septic abortion (13, 21.3%) and hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (10, 16.4%) were the leading causes of death. Over three quarters (47, 77.0%) had not received care from any health facility. Most deaths (46, 75.5%) occurred between 24 and 97 hours of admission.CONCLUSION: Compared with previous trends, there has been a significant improvement in maternal mortality ratio in the study setting. There is also a significant change in the leading cause of maternal deaths, with septic abortion and hypertensive disease of pregnancy now replacing post-partum haemorrhage and puerperal sepsis that was previously reported. This success may be attributable to the institution of the Woman trial intervention which is still ongoing in other parts of the world. There is, however, need to sustain effort at a further reduction in MMR towards the attainment of set sustainable development goals (SDGs), through improvement in the provision of maternal health services in low-income countries.
Presentation of the Molecular Subtypes of Breast Cancer Detected By Immunohistochemistry in Surgically Treated Patients
Authors: Kondov Borislav , Milenkovikj Zvonko , Kondov Goran , Petrushevska Gordana , Basheska Neli , Bogdanovska-Todorovska Magdalena , Tolevska Natasha , Ivkovski Ljube
Published: June 2018

INTRODUCTION: The detection of estrogen, progesterone and HER-2 neu receptors on the surface of the tumour cell is a significant prognostic factor, alone or in combination. The presence or absence of receptors on the surface of the tumour cell is associated with the conditional gene expression in the tumour cell itself. Based on these genetically determined expressions of the tumour cell, five molecular subtypes of breast cancer have been classified on the St. Gallen International Expert Consensus in 2011 that can be immunohistochemically detected, with each subtype manifesting certain prognosis and aggression.AIM: Analyzing the presentation of molecular subtypes of breast cancer that are immunohistochemically detected in surgically treated patients at the Clinic for Thoracic and Vascular Surgery.MATERIAL AND METHODS: We used the international classification on molecular subtypes of breast cancer which divides them into: Luminal A (ER+ and/or PR+, HER-2 negative, Ki-67 < 14%), Luminal B with HER-2 negative (ER+ and/or PR+, HER-2 negative, Ki-67 ≥ 14%), Luminal B with HER-2 positive (ER+ and/or PR+, HER-2+, any Ki-67), HER-2 enriched (ER-, PR-, HER-2+), and basal-like (triple negative) (ER-, PR-, HER-2 negative, CK5/6+ and/or EGFR+). A total of 290 patients, surgically treated for breast cancer, were analysed during 2014.RESULTS: In our analysis, we found that Luminal A was present in 77 (26.55%) patients, Luminal B HER-2 negative was present in 91 (31.38%) patients, Luminal B HER-2 positive was present in 70 (24.14%) patients, HER-2 enriched was present in 25 (8.62%) patients and basal-like (or triple negative) was present in 27 (9.31%) patients.CONCLUSION: Detecting the subtype of breast cancer is important for evaluating the prognosis of the disease, but also for determining and providing an adequate therapy. Therefore, determining the subtype of breast cancer is necessary for the routine histopathological assay.
Proton Pump Inhibitors Diminish Barrett's Esophagus Length: Our Experience
Authors: Gashi Zaim , Bahtiri Elton , Gashi Arjeta , Sherifi Fadil
Published: June 2018

AIM: Our main objectives were to evaluate the influence of two-year proton pump inhibitors (PPI) therapy in patients with Barrett's oesophagus on its length, in both types, short and long segment.METHODS: In this single-centre, prospective interventional controlled study were analysed data collected prospectively over two years from patients with Barrett's oesophagus diagnosed by endoscopy. Patients who received continuous proton pump inhibitors (PPI) for 2 years. At each patient visit symptoms were recorded, and at each endoscopy, the length of Barrett's oesophagus (BE) was measured. Biopsies were taken along the length of the oesophagus at intervals of 1 cm. In total, 50 patients with Barrett's oesophagus were included in the study: 10 of whom had long-segment Barrett's oesophagus, and 40 patients had short-segment Barrett's oesophagus. The mean number of endoscopies performed was 3 per patient.RESULTS: The length of Barrett's esophagus (BE) was influenced by PPI therapy: Circumferential extension in BE patients short-segment Barrett's esophagus (SSBE) (before treatment was 1.5 cm and after treatment was 0.8 cm Maximum proximal extension in SSBE group before treatment was 2.3 cm (SD ± 1.1 cm), and 1.1 cm (SD ± 0.9 cm), respectively. Squamous islands were detected in 25% of patients examined after 2 years on PPIs.CONCLUSIONS: PPIs achieve a reduction to the length of Barrett's oesophagus, in both types, and the development of squamous islands is commonly associated with their use.
Rediscovery of the endemic gastropod Dianella schlickumi (Gastropoda, Hydrobiidae) and its discrimination from Dianella thiesseana: environmental correlates and implications for their conservation
Authors: Ntislidou Chrysoula , Radea Canella , Giokas Sinos , Pusch Martin T. , Lazaridou Maria , Bobori Dimitra C.
Published: June 2018

The aquatic snail genusDianella(Gastropoda: Hydrobiidae) has only two representatives in Greece:DianellaschlickumiSchütt, 1962 andDianellathiesseana(Kobelt, 1878).D.schlickumi, a narrow endemic species to Lake Amvrakia (in Aitoloakarnania, western-central Greece), is considered as Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct, sensu IUCN 2017). Our study confirmed its presence in Lake Amvrakia, where it had not been detected for more than 30 years. We document the unknown anatomical characters based on theD.schlickumispecimens. Moreover, the presence ofD.thiesseanain the nearby lakes Trichonis and Lysimachia was also confirmed, while morphometric analyses enabled the discrimination between the two species. Redundancy Analysis revealed conductivity, dissolved oxygen and pH as the main environmental variables related to the above species’ distribution, shaping their community structure. BothDianellaspecies require urgent conservation measures to be enforced, due to their habitat degradation from human activities, which are limiting and fragmenting their range. For that purpose, effective management plans have to be elaborated and implemented at the mentioned lakes, focusing on the reduction of human pressures and on the improvement of their habitats.
Protection des données personnelles et cyber(in)sécurité
Authors: Maciel-Hibbard Marilia
Published: June 2018

À mesure que s’interconnectent humains et objets, la protection de la vie privée recule. Les entreprises du Net vivent de l’exploitation des données individuelles de masse. Les États s’affranchissent des règles usuelles pour collecter les données afin de lutter contre le terrorisme et la délinquance. Les dispositifs légaux ne garantissent pas l’équilibre entre sécurité et protection des individus. La justice sera appelée dans l’avenir à jouer un rôle accru au service de cette dernière.
Agreement Between Internal Astigmatism and Posterior Corneal Astigmatism in Pseudophakic Eyes
Authors: Feizi Sepehr , Delfazayebaher Siamak , Javadi Mohammad Ali
Published: June 2018

PURPOSE:

To directly measure internal astigmatism and evaluate its agreement with posterior corneal astigmatism in pseudophakic eyes.

METHODS:

This prospective study enrolled 32 eyes of 32 patients (18 women, 56.3%) who underwent phacoemulsification with implantation of a non-toric monofocal intraocular lens (IOL). Two months postoperatively, posterior corneal astigmatism was measured using a Pentacam Scheimpflug analyzer (Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany). Manifest refractive astigmatism was measured after fitting a spherical hard contact lens. This refractive astigmatism that was vertexed to the corneal plane was considered internal astigmatism. The magnitudes of internal and posterior corneal astigmatism were compared. The relationship and agreement between these two astigmatisms were investigated using the Spearman correlation coefficient and Bland–Altman plots, respectively.

RESULTS:

The mean patient age was 56.3 ± 9.6 years. IOL decentration or tilt and posterior segment abnormalities were not encountered in any cases postoperatively. The mean refractive astigmatism measured before fitting the hard contact lens was −0.81 ± 0.56 diopters (D). Internal astigmatism (−0.17 ± 0.21 D) was significantly different from posterior corneal astigmatism (−0.30 ± 0.15 D;
P
= .046). Regression analysis demonstrated a weak association between internal astigmatism and posterior corneal astigmatism (
r
2
= 0.22,
P
= .013). Bland–Altman plots produced 95% limits of agreement for these two astigmatisms from −0.49 to 0.75 D.

CONCLUSIONS:

A significant but weak correlation was found between the magnitudes of internal astigmatism and posterior corneal astigmatism in the pseudophakic eyes. This result indicates that Pentacam measurement of the posterior cornea did not compare well with a “gold standard” of refraction-derived values.

[
J Refract Surg.
2018;34(6):379–386.]
A REVIEW ON BIOMEDICAL IMAGE ANALYSIS
Authors: Renukalatha S. , Suresh K. V.
Published: June 2018

Bio-medical image analysis is an interdisciplinary field which includes: biology, physics, medicine and engineering. It deals with application of image processing techniques to biological or medical problems. Medical images to be analyzed contain a lot of information regarding the anatomical structure under investigation to reveal valid diagnosis and thereby helping doctors to choose adequate therapy. Doctors usually analyse these medical images manually through visual interpretation. But visual analysis of these images by human observers is limited due to variation in interpersonal interpretations, fatigue errors, surrounding disturbances and moreover this kind of analysis is purely subjective. On the other hand, automated analysis of these images using computers with suitable techniques favours the objective analysis by an expert and thereby improving the diagnostic confidence and accuracy of analysis. This survey is a consolidation of the exhaustive literature records related to biomedical image analysis.
STUDIES ON SCHIZOPHRENIA AND DEPRESSIVE DISEASES BASED ON FUNCTIONAL NEAR-INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: Barahimi Shekoufe , Einalou Zahra , Dadgostar Mehrdad
Published: June 2018

Many investigations have been carried out on functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) applications in depression and schizophrenia patients that are most mysterious and costliest mental disorders in current society. fNIRS is a new optical method which assesses brain cortex hemodynamic and nervous activities non-invasively and it has been used in medicine as a study tool. Most of the researches of this approach have assessed the homodynamic response of frontal and temporal regions by means of various cognitive tasks. In this research, first, the cognitive task execution techniques have been explained concisely, and then some findings of fNIRS-based researches about depression and schizophrenia have been summarized and assessed. In fNIRS studies that have used various devices with different number of channels, the brain cortex functionality in schizophrenia and depressive patients has been investigated. The results demonstrate that a decrease in prefrontal regions activities can be observed in schizophrenia and depressive patients. Also more detailed studies illustrate ventrolateral, prefrontal and frontopolar region disorders. In severe depressive patients, a decrease in activities of prefrontal and temporal regions has been detected. Therefore, by paying attention to the deficiencies in these regions’ functions, it is possible to treat these diseases.
Educating for Peace
Authors: Lam Maria Lai-Ling
Published: June 2018

The author presents a peace-centered process of teaching marketing that she has implemented during 2001-2016 academic years with her undergraduate and graduate business students in various marketing courses, corporate social responsibility course, and summer seminars in the United States, Hong Kong, and China. The peace-centered process is neglected in the conventional norms of marketing education even though marketing is considered to create values to stakeholders through the exchange processes and creates a peaceful world through business activities. The peace-centered approach is related to the development of a unified world view about human life in a culture of peace and culture of healing, and the development of virtues in a marketing career. She discusses (1) the critique of marketing education, (2) the concept of a peace-centered process of teaching marketing, (3) the role of marketing educators, and (4) the seven pedagogical strategies for this approach.
Morphological characterization of Lasia spinosa (L.) Thw.: Screening of indigenous crop genetic resources for future food and nutritional security
Authors: Kumari Tharanga , Rajapaksha Ranil , Karunarathne Lankani , Pushpakumara Gamini , Bandaranayake Pradeepa
Published: June 2018

Lasia spinosa (L.) Thw. is considered as a high potential indigenous vegetable in Sri Lanka due to its rich medicinal and nutritional properties though the crop has not gained wider consumer attraction. While it depicts a wide range of morphological variation, proper studies and documentations are not available. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing the diversity of L. spinosa in 18 agro-ecological regions in Sri Lanka. A descriptor was developed and the morphological characters were observed, measured and documented in the field accordingly. Data were analyzed using hierarchical cluster analysis. Sixty-eight accessions collected were grouped into four main clusters mainly based on leaf characters (sagittate type, lamina-dissected type, mixed form and black lasia) and to several sub clusters. We were able to collect a spineless L. spinosa type, grouped under sagittate type, from Sri Lanka. The spineless type can be considered as superior germplasm, which could be a valuable resource in future breeding programs.
Opposing Effects of IL-1Ra and IL-36Ra on Innate Immune Response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection in C57BL/6 Mouse Corneas
Authors: Gao Nan , Me Rao , Dai Chenyang , Seyoum Berhane , Yu Fu-shin X.
Published: June 2018

Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis is characterized by severe corneal ulceration and may lead to blindness if not treated properly in a timely manner. Although the roles of the IL-1 subfamily of cytokines are well established, as a newly discovered subfamily, IL-36 cytokine regulation, immunological relevance, and relation with IL-1 cytokines in host defense remain largely unknown. In this study, we showed that P. aeruginosa infection induces the expression of IL-36α and IL-36γ, as well as IL-1β and secreted IL-1Ra (sIL-1Ra), but not IL-36Ra. Downregulation of IL-1Ra increases, whereas downregulation of IL-36Ra decreases the severity of P. aeruginosa keratitis. IL-1R and IL-36Ra downregulation have opposing effects on the expression of IL-1β, sIL-1Ra, IL-36γ, S100A8, and CXCL10 and on the infiltration of innate immune cells. Administration of recombinant IL-1Ra improved, whereas IL-36Ra worsened the outcome of P. aeruginosa keratitis. Local application of IL-36γ stimulated the expression of innate defense molecules S100A9, mouse β-defensin 3, but suppressed IL-1β expression in B6 mouse corneas. IL-36γ diminished the severity of P. aeruginosa keratitis, and its protective effects were abolished in the presence of S100A9 neutralizing Ab and partially affected by CXCL10 and CXCR3 neutralizations. Thus, our data reveal that IL-1Ra and IL-36Ra have opposing effects on the outcome of P. aeruginosa keratitis and suggest that IL-36 agonists may be used as an alternative therapeutic to IL-1β–neutralizing reagents in controlling microbial keratitis and other mucosal infections.