bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exigências nutricionais e eficiência energética para vacas de corte
Authors: Freiria Lucien Bissi da , Possamai Adriano Jorge , Rosa e Silva Pedro Ivo Jose Lopes da , Zervoudakis Joanis Tilemahos
Published: October 2016

Review studies related to nutritional and energy efficiency of cow Nellore, data reporting requirements of the fractions of energy and protein for these animals during gestation and lactation. Little is known about the nutritional requirements of beef cows raised in tropical conditions, many data are still based animal research in European temperate conditions, under or over estimating the values that could possibly be found in Brazilian conditions. With this, we used the equations obtained by studies conducted in Brazil to produce tables with the net energy requirements, energy metabolizable, total digestible nutrients for maintenance and gain weight, based on cows in different stages of pregnancy, lactation and size body. As for the protein fractions. Based on the data obtained it is concluded that in the last third of gestation is the significant increase in demand for energy and protein, and lactating cows have a demand that exceeds their ingestive capacity, for a gain of 1 kg / day with CMS around 2% of body weight.
Condiciones de trabajo de las enfermeras y las formas de contratación en Medellín, Colombia
Authors: Zapata Herrera Marleny , Zapata Gómez Nora Eugenia
Published: October 2016

Resumen Objetivo: Describir las condiciones de trabajo y de organización del profesional de enfermería en diferentes formas de contratación laboral. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal, con selección de 552 enfermeras que laboraban en instituciones de 2°, 3° y 4° nivel de atención en salud en una ciudad colombiana; con un tamaño muestral por conglomerados representados por 31 IPS. Se usó el cuestionario de Condiciones de Trabajo (qCT) validado para Latinoamérica. Resultados: Predominaron las enfermeras con edades entre 25 y 34 años (55%), solteras (52%), en instituciones privadas laboraba el 63,5%, en modalidad de contrato a término indefinido 51%. El promedio de valoración de las condiciones de trabajo y de organización fue positiva en todas las escalas qCT acorde con la media y desviación estándar. El tipo de contratación tiene peso en la determinación de las condiciones de trabajo, pero no es el único indicador. Conclusión: Las mejores condiciones de trabajo y de organización como mayor antigüedad laboral, mayor salario, cubrimiento total de la seguridad social y prestaciones sociales, se dan en las enfermeras que laboran en contrato a término indefinido y en empresas de carácter privado.Abstract Objective: To describe the conditions of work and organization of professional nursing in different forms of contracting. Materials and methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was made by selecting 552 nurses who were working in institutions of 2°, 3° and 4° health care level in a Colombian city; with a sample size for conglomerate represented by 31 IPS. The questionnaire on working conditions (qCT) validated for Latin America was used. Results: Nurses aged between 25 and 34 years (55%) prevailed, those who were single 52%, in private institutions 63.5% and with an indefinite-term contract 51%. The average assessment of the conditions of work and organization was positive in all scales qCT according to the mean and standard deviation. The type of hiring is important in the determination of working conditions, but it is not the only indicator. Conclusion: The best conditions of work and organization such as greater seniority, higher salary, total coverage of the social security and social benefits, are given to nurses who work in indefinite-term contract and private companies.
The Euler equation with habits and measurement errors: Estimates on Russian micro data
Authors: Khvostova Irina , Larin Alexander , Novak Anna
Published: October 2016

This paper presents estimates of the consumption Euler equation for Russia.
The estimation is based on micro-level panel data and accounts for the
heterogeneity of agents? preferences and measurement errors. The presence of
multiplicative habits is checked using the Lagrange multiplier (LM) test in a
generalized method of moments (GMM) framework. We obtain estimates of the
elasticity of intertemporal substitution and of the subjective discount
factor, which are consistent with the theoretical model and can be used for
the calibration and the Bayesian estimation of dynamic stochastic general
equilibrium (DSGE) models for the Russian economy. We also show that the
effects of habit formation are not significant. The hypotheses of
multiplicative habits (external, internal, and both external and internal)
are not supported by the data.
Health-related quality of life in patients with functional dyspepsia
Authors: Bjelovic Milos , Zaric Nemanja , Babic Tamara , Dragicevic Igor , Corac Aleksandar , Trajkovic Goran
Published: October 2016

Background/Aim. Recent population based studies have proved that patients with functional dyspepsia (FD) have a significantly impaired health-related quality of life HRQoL as compared to general population. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of FD on (HRQoL) in patients treated in primary healthcare settings in Serbia. Methods. The study involved 1,448 patients with FD. The diagnosis was made by a general practice physician or gastroenterologist using the Rome III diagnostic criteria. The Serbian version of the questionnaire for the assessment of HRQoL of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (HRQoL-4 item CDC) was used for data collection, while descriptive statistical measurements were applied to calculate standard deviation, frequency as well as multiple logistic regression model. Results. Out of the total number of patients, 41.8% assessed their health condition as seriously disordered or poor. The mean values of health disorder duration over the last 30 days was 11.8 days, disordered physical health 7.2 days, mental disorder 6.3 days, and activity limitation 5.1 days. Also, 29.7%, 15.2%, 12.8% and 10.7% of the patients reported ? 14 unhealthy days, ? 14 physically unhealthy days, ? 14 mentally unhealthy days and ? 14 activity limitation days, respectively. Conclusion. From patients? perspective, FD has a significant impact on HRQoL. In this study, 41.8% of the patients described their health status as fair or poor, and FD significantly affects all aspects of life, both mental and physical. The recognition of that impact is probably the most important step towards appropriate treatment and decreasing HRQoL impairment in patients with FD.
Identification of Candida spp. in the oral cavity in patients with malignant diseases
Authors: Glazar Irena , Prpic Jelena , Muhvic-Urek Miranda , Pezelj-Ribaric Sonja
Published: October 2016

Background/Aim. Oral candidiasis frequently causes discomfort in patients treated for malignant diseases, acting as well as a potential source of systemic infection. This disease may present itself through different clinical manifestations of both acute or chronic type. The aim of this study was to identify different Candida species from oral cavities of patients suffering from malignant diseases. Methods. Thirty patients admitted to the hospital for diagnostics/treatment of malignant diseases were included in this investigation. All subjects had visible changes of oral mucosa in the form of pseudomembranes and inflammation corresponding to oral candidiasis. Control group included 30 non-hospitalized patients diagnosed with candidiasis. Diagnosis of oral candidiasis was confirmed in all patients by microbiological analysis of tongue swabs. For microbiota identification, three different tests were used: germination test, fungal growth test on corn meal agar, and biochemical identification with commercially available ID 32 C kit (bio-Merieux, Marcy-l?Etoile, France). Results. Out of 30 isolates collected from hospitalized patients, 90% was related to Candida albicans, 7% was identified as Candida kefyr, and 3% as Candida famata. In samples collected from non-hospitalized controls, we isolated Candida albicans in 90% of the cases, in 7% Candida kefyr, while in 3% we identified Candida glabrata. Conclusion. Based on this investigation, oral candidiasis in patients treated with radiotherapy and chemotherapy is mainly caused by Candida albicans. It is to be expected that Candida albicans will remain the most significant causative agent of oral candidasis, although we must bear in mind the possibility of other pathogenic species.
Additional impact on muscle function when treating active rheumatoid arthritis patients with high alphacalcidol doses
Authors: Simic-Pasalic Katarina , Gosic Katarina , Gavrilovic Andjela , Vojinovic Jelena
Published: October 2016

Background/Aim. Hormone D (vitamin D) plays an important role in immunoregulation and musculoskeletal metabolism. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of alfacalcidol (ILD3) or prednisone use on muscle function and disease activity in active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods. The study included 67 RA patients with the active disease, disease activity score (DAS28) > 3.2, on the highest tolerable methotrexate (MTX) dose during last 3 months. Data collected were: DAS 28, muscle function tests [chair rising test (CRT) timed up and go (TUG), 6 minutes walk (6MWT), tandem walk (TW)], efficacy and safety laboratory tests. At enrollment, patients were randomly assigned to three-month supplementation with 1 ?g (group A1) or 2 ?g (group A2) or 3 ?g (group A3) of 1?D3 daily or prednisone (group C) 20 mg daily, for the first month and 10 mg afterward, in addition to MTX. Results. After the treatment, we found highly significantly reduced disease activity in all four treatment arms (DAS28 p < 0.01). 1?D3 2 ?g (A2 group, n = 19) treated patients significantly improved muscle function (TUG, 6MWT), while 1?D3 3 ?g treated (A3, n = 16) improved 6MWT (p < 0.05), and CRT (p < 0.01). Serum 25(OH)D3 significantly decreased in the group C (p < 0.01), in contrast to its changes obtained in alfacalcidol treated ones. Conclusion. 1?D3 2 ?g and 3 ?g daily is as effective as prednisone (mean 13.3 mg daily) in RA activity control and also has the additional favorable impact on muscle function.
Evaluating the Experience of Children With Type 1 Diabetes and Their Parents Taking Part in an Artificial Pancreas Clinical Trial Over Multiple Days in a Diabetes Camp Setting
Authors: Troncone Alda , Bonfanti Riccardo , Iafusco Dario , Rabbone Ivana , Sabbion Alberto , Schiaffini Riccardo , Galderisi Alfonso , Marigliano Marco , Rapini Novella , Rigamonti Andrea , Tinti Davide , Vallone Valeria , Zanfardino Angela , Boscari Federico , Del Favero Simone , Galasso Silvia , Lanzola Giordano , Messori Mirko , Di Palma Federico , Visentin Roberto , Calore Roberta , Leal Yenny , Magni Lalo , Losiouk Eleonora , Chernavvsky Daniel , Quaglini Silvana , Cobelli Claudio , Bruttomesso Daniela
Published: October 2016

OBJECTIVE

To explore the experiences of children with type 1 diabetes and their parents taking part in an artificial pancreas (AP) clinical trial during a 7-day summer camp.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A semistructured interview, composed of 14 questions based on the Technology Acceptance Model, was conducted at the end of the clinical trial. Participants also completed the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ, parent version) and the AP Acceptance Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Thirty children, aged 5–9 years, and their parents completed the study. A content analysis of the interviews showed that parents were focused on understanding the mechanisms, risks, and benefits of the new device, whereas the children were focused on the novelty of the new system. The parents’ main concerns about adopting the new system seemed related to the quality of glucose control. The mean scores of DTSQ subscales indicated general parents’ satisfaction (44.24 ± 5.99, range 32–53) and trustful views of diabetes control provided by the new system (7.8 ± 2.2, range 3–12). The AP Acceptance Questionnaire revealed that most parents considered the AP easy to use (70.5%), intended to use it long term (94.0%), and felt that it was apt to improve glucose control (67.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Participants manifested a positive attitude toward the AP. Further studies are required to explore participants’ perceptions early in the AP development to individualize the new treatment as much as possible, and to tailor it to respond to their needs and values.
Association of Vitamin D Deficiency with Acute Lower Respiratory Infection in Toddlers
Authors: Narang Gursharan Singh , Arora Sunita , Kukreja Sahiba , Shifali Dr
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Pneumonia remains a significant health problem in India with significant morbidity and mortality. Objectives of this study were to identifying an effective nutritional agent that reduces the need for antibiotics, duration of pneumonia and length of hospitalization would be highly cost-beneficial.Material and Methods: This was a hospital-based case-control study: A total of 100 children including 50 cases and 50 controls, aged 2–60 months, were enrolled. Case definition of severe ALRI as given by the World Health Organization was used for cases. Controls were healthy children attending outpatients’ service for immunization or admitted for minor ailments other than ALRTI.Results: Mean 25(OH)D concentrations in children of the study group were lower than those of the control group (20.431 ng/mL vs. 27.67 ng/mL; p = 0.035). Factors significantly associated with decreased risk of ALRTI in univariate analysis were: exclusive breastfeeding in the first 6 months (cases 13/50 (26%), controls 42/50 (84%); p=0.000); adequate exposure to sunlight (cases 14/50 (28%), controls 42/50 (84%); P=0.000); and serum 25OHD3 <20 ng/ml (cases 28/50 (56%), controls 0/50 (0%); p=.000). Multivariate logistic model indicated that severe vitamin D deficiency (OR=NA), exclusive breast feeding (OR=.174); 95% CI (.061- .521; p=.002) and adequate sunlight exposure (OR=.179) ;95%CI (.062-.519); p=.002) were significant independent predictive risk factors for ALRTI among the children between 2 months – 5 years of age (all p<0.05).Conclusion: Severe vitamin D deficiency (<20ng/ml), nonexclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of life, inadequate sun exposure were significant risk factors for ALRTI in Indian children.J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2016;36(1):14-18
Correlation between Insulin Like Growth Factor -1 and Anthropometric Measurements of Premature Infants
Authors: Abdelwahab Amina , Khashana Abdelmoneim , Ahmed Nesma , Younis Soha
Published: October 2016

Introduction: It is agreed that insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF- 1) influence growth. IGF-1) is a significant endocrine mediator of growth and encourages cellular propagation, survival, and differentiation. The aim of this study was to correlate insulin like growth factor 1 and anthropometric measurements in the neonatal age of the premature infants.Material and Methods: This study was performed at a level III intensive care unit at Suez Canal university hospital, Ismailia, Egypt. It is a cross sectional analytical study in the period from the March 2014 to September 2014. All cases are premature and were imperiled to history taking, clinical examination includes weight, length, head circumference and measurement of serum (IGF-1).Results: There were a total of 40 neonates. Gestational age extended from 31 to 36 weeks with a mean of 34.32±1.68 weeks; weight ranged from 1.15 to 3.20 kg with a mean of 2.14±0.59 kg and length ranged from 37 to 49 cm with a mean of 43.85±3.25 cm. Regarding neonatal gender, 21 neonates out of 40 neonates (52.5%) were males and 19 neonates (47.5%) were females. Mother’s age ranged from 19 to 35 years with a mean of 27.47±4.46 years. IGF- 1α concentration, it ranged from 13.55 ng/ml to 163.34 ng/ml with a mean of 99.64±32.43 ng/ml and there was statistically significant decrease in neonates with restricted growth when compared to non-restricted growth group (77.67±30.92 ng/ml vs 121.62±13.64 ng/ml respectively).Conclusion: There was significant correlation between IGF-1α and weight and head circumference of preterm neonates.J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2016;36(1):24-27
The Right Aortic Arch with Aberrant Left Subclavian Artery as a Cause of Dysphagia Lusoria
Authors: Koc Gonca , Doganay Selim , Gorkem Sureyya Burcu , Dogan Mehmet Sait , Coskun Abdulhakim
Published: October 2016

The right aortic arch with aberrant left subclavian artery is a rare vascular anomaly that usually does not cause any symptoms and is encountered in the adult age group incidentally. We report a paediatric case presented with dysphagia lusoria resulted from right aortic arch with aberrant left subclavian artery with the imaging findings.J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2016;36(1):97-99.
Nonsyndromic Split Hand/ Foot Malformation: Ectrodactyly
Authors: Ray Sanghamitra , Jain Prakash Chand
Published: October 2016

The CaseA three year old girl came to our OPD with deformity of left hand called ectrodactyly. She had no other deformities, dysmorphic features and was developmentally appropriate. The X-ray of the hand showed normal radius, ulna and metacarpals but absence of phalanges of the middle three fingers of left hand. She was examined in detail for any ectodermal anomaly, clefting of lip or palate. USG abdomen, kidney and urinary tract was done to rule out any urinary tract malformation. She was finally referred to higher centre for reconstructive surgery for ectrodactyly.J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2016;36(1):103-104
Sex ratio at Birth in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Western Nepal are the Trends Changing?
Authors: Aryal Shreyashi , Kalakheti Balkrishna
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Sex ratio at birth remains unchanged in absence of human intervention. A tendency of skewing towards males is seen in Asian population attributable to various reasons, foremost being abortions. The decreasing number of female population is a form of gender discrimination and has serious implications for both sexes in the future. The purpose of this study was to analyze the trends of sex ratio at birth among deliveries at Lumbini Medical College Teaching Hospital, Palpa, Nepal over the past eight years.Materials and Methods: A retrospective audit of deliveries from 1st January 2008 to 31st December 2015 was carried out. Sex ratio at birth was calculated and its relationship with maternal age, birth order and number of previous abortions was analyzed.Results: The total number of live-births during the study period was 9394 consisting of 5008 male and 4350 female with an overall sex ratio at birth of 112.6. Every year, there was an increasing trend in total number of live births and sex ratio at birth. The number of male births increased with increase in parity but there was no statistical difference seen between maternal age, parity and number of abortions for male and female births.Conclusion: The sex ratio at birth in hospital deliveries is unbalanced with inclination towards male, more so in women with high parity. Additional research exploring the reason for increase in male births is needed, so that potential programs which can reverse this trend can be implemented.J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2016;36(1):68-71
Averting the Legacy of Kidney Disease; Focus on Childhood
Authors: Ingelfinger Julie R , Kalantar-Zadeh Kamyar , Schaefer Franz
Published: October 2016

World Kidney Day 2016 focuses on kidney disease in childhood and the antecedents of adult kidney disease that can begin in earliest childhood. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in childhood differs from that in adults, as the largest diagnostic group among children includes congenital anomalies and inherited disorders, with glomerulopathies and kidney disease in the setting of diabetes being relatively uncommon. In addition, many children with acute kidney injury will ultimately develop sequelae that may lead to hypertension and CKD in later childhood or in adult life. Children born early or who are small-for date newborns have relatively increased risk for the development of CKD later in life. Persons with a high-risk birth and early childhood history should be watched closely in order to help detect early signs of kidney disease in time to provide effective prevention or treatment. Successful therapy is feasible for advanced CKD in childhood; there is evidence that children fare better than adults, if they receive kidney replacement therapy including dialysis and transplantation, while only a minority of children may require this ultimate intervention Because there are disparities in access to care, effort is needed so that those children with kidney disease, wherever they live, may be treated effectively, irrespective of their geographic or economic circumstances. Our hope is that World Kidney Day will inform the general public, policy makers and caregivers about the needs and possibilities surrounding kidney disease in childhood.J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2016;36(1):1-7
Study of Serum FT3, FT4 and TSH Levels in Pregnant Women
Authors: Yeasmin Shahanara , Hossain AFM Anwar , Yeasmin Tahmina , Amin Md Ruhul
Published: October 2016

Thyroid disease have a strong predominance in woman of childbearing age. Pregnancy may be associated with thyroid dysfunction. Our objective was to assess the serum FT3, FT4 and TSH levels in pregnant women. This cross-sectional analytical study was done in the Department of Physiology of Dhaka Medical College from July 2006- June 2007. Total 50 apparently healthy women of low socioeconomic class, age ranged from 18- 40 years were selected from the Outpatient Department of urban primary health care project at Mirpur, Dhaka. Out of them 30 pregnant women of different trimester were taken as study group and 20 age matched non pregnant women were taken as control. Serum FT3, FT4 and TSH levels were parameters in both groups. Statistical analysis was done by the SPSS 12.0 programme. The means ( SD) of serum FT3 levels were 6.36 1.16 p mol/L and 6.38 1.38 p mol/L, FT4 levels were 20.25 4.77 pmol/L and 19.39 8.17 pmol/L and TSH levels were 0.96 0.96 mIu/L and 1.27 0.86 mIu/L in group A (Study) and group B (control) respectively. The difference of means ( SD) of serum FT3 , FT4 and TSH levels were not significant (p>0.05) between group A and B. From the statistical analysis of the results obtained in the present study and their comparison with those of published reports, it may be concluded that there is no change of serum FT3, FT4 and TSH levels in pregnancy.Medicine Today 2015 Vol.27(2): 1-4
Evaluation of Short Term Fever with Flu like Symptoms in a Tertiary Level Hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Majumder Md Mahabubul Islam , Ahmed Md Tarek , Nath Sopan Chandra Deb
Published: October 2016

Short term fever, a major public health concern is commonly caused by influenza virus. This is a crosssectional surveillance study designed to identify common causes of short term fever and diversity of causative different viral strains specially influenza virus, done in medicine and pediatrics department, Comilla Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh from November 2013 to October 2014. Patients having fever with flu like symptoms for less than 7 days was selected. Nasopharyngeal swab was analyzed by RT-PCR for detection of influenza A and B with other respiratory virus. Routine blood test, Malaria detection, blood culture for Salmonella, urine culture was done.Out of 529 patients virus was isolated in 122, of which Influenza, non influenza and mixed viral pathogens was isolated in 65,48 and 9 patients respectively. Salmonella, Malarial parasites and urinary tract infection (UTI) was found in 40, 4 and 8 cases respectively. Sixty five patients was detected influenza A and B (31vs34), with both A & B in one patient. Most of Influenza A and B cases were found in early monsoon. Among Influenza A positive cases, 29 belonged to H3N2 and 2 cases H1N1 (pdm09) subtype. This study revealed influenza A and B, salmonellosis and other non influenza viruses as main etiology of short term fever. RT PCR for virus is an important investigation for viral detection. Blood and urine culture is adjunctive investigation to detect salmonellosis and UTI. No avian and swain flue was detected.Medicine Today 2015 Vol.27(2): 5-8
Comparison between Invasive & Non-Invasive Diagnostic Evaluation of Tuberculous Peritonitis In Our Prospective
Authors: Ali Md Naushad , Parvin Rehana , Azad Md Abul Kalam , Islam AKM Mazharul
Published: October 2016

This cross sectional study was carried out in the department of gastroenterology, Rangpur Medical College Hospital, Rangpur from January 2014 to July 2014 to compare between Invasive & Non-Invasive Diagnostic Evaluation of Tuberculosis Peritonitis In our prospective in clinically suspected patients. Total 30 patients (age 39.69±21.26, 18M/12F) with clinical suspicion of peritoneal tuberculosis were included in this study after analyzing selection criteria. Laparoscopic peritoneal biopsy with 'histopathological' diagnosis was considered as gold standard against which accuracies non-invasive test of two biomarkers (ADA & CA-125) were compared. Cut off value of ADA and CA-125 is 24 U/l, 35 U/ml respectively. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of ADA as a diagnostic modality in peritoneal tuberculosis were 87.5%, 83.33%, 95.45%, 62.5% and 86.67% respectively whereas CA-125 was found to have 83.33% sensitivity, 50% specificity, 86.9% positive predictive value, 42.85% negative predictive value and 76.6% accuracy. Both biomarkers were simple, non-invasive, rapid and relatively cheap diagnostic test whereas laparoscopy was an invasive procedure, costly & requires trained staff and not without risk and also not feasible in the entire centre in our country. So ascitic fluid ADA and serum CA-125 was important non-invasive diagnostic test for peritoneal tuberculosis.Medicine Today 2015 Vol.27(2): 20-22
Transanal Extrusion of the Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Tube
Authors: Farazi Md Mohsin Ali , Salam Md Abdus , Azim Muhammed Arshad Ul
Published: October 2016

Ventricular shunts are commonly employed in the management of hydrocephalus, Numerous complications such as dissection, migration and malfunction have been reported in the literature. Here we present a case of migration of the peritoneal catheter through anus who attended in our institute. He was managed successfully without further complications.Medicine Today 2015 Vol.27(2): 44-45
Juvenile Dermatomyositis
Authors: Rahman Md Mostafizur , Ferdous Bilkis , Tarik Sabbir Ahmed , Uddin Mohammad Mofiz , Haque Akramul
Published: October 2016

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is an autoimmune vasculopathy affecting children and adolescent under the age of 18 years. In this report, we describe a 9 years old boy who had myopathy and typical skin rash. Upon treatment with oral prednisolone and topical corticosteroid the patient condition considerably improved. Our case report illustrates that JDM requires comprehensive evaluation and multidisciplinary management.Medicine Today 2015 Vol.27(2): 46-48
Abnormal Contour Huge Uterine Fibroids
Authors: Ahmed Parveen , Farid GM , Ishague Tanveen , Siddiqua Ayesha
Published: October 2016

Uterine fibroids represent the most common large solid benign tumor of the female genital tract. This 35 years old lady, mother of one child represented to our clinic with a history of progressive abdominal swelling that had rapidly increased in the last two years. There were associated abdominal pain, easy fatigability, heavy menstrual loss and prolong secondary subfertility of about ten years. On examination abdomen was enlarged and the mass measuring about 25cm from xiphisternum, firm, irregular and fairly mobile. Pelvic ultrasound scan revealed features of huge multiple uterine fibroids and the size of the largest one was about 20x25cm,moderate bilateral hydro-nephrosis. Intraoperative findings were moderate pelvic adhesions, huge multiple fibroids and the largest measuring about 18x20cm. Total abdominal hysterectomy with preservation of both ovaries were done. Histopathological report confirmed benign leiomyoma with no evidence of malignancy.Medicine Today 2015 Vol.27(2): 49-50
Distributed Optimal Economic Dispatch Based on Multi-Agent System Framework in Combined Heat and Power Systems
Authors: Li Yu-Shuai , Zhang Hua-Guang , Huang Bo-Nan , Teng Fei
Published: October 2016

In this paper, a novel distributed method is presented to solve combined heat and power economic dispatch problem, which is formulated as a distributed coupled optimization problem. The optimization goal is achieved by establishing two modified consensus protocols with two corresponding feedback parts while satisfying the electrical and heat supply–demand balance. Moreover, an alternating iterative method is proposed to handle the heat-electrical coupling problem existed in the objective function and the feasible operating regions. In addition, the proposed distributed method is implemented by a multi-agent system framework, which only requires local information exchange among neighboring agents. Simulation results obtained on a 16-bus test system are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed distributed method.
Stable Photocatalytic Paints Prepared from Hybrid Core-Shell Fluorinated/Acrylic/TiO2 Waterborne Dispersions
Authors: Bonnefond Audrey , González Edurne , Asua José , Leiza Jose , Ieva Eliana , Brinati Giulio , Carella Serena , Marrani Alessio , Veneroni Alessandro , Kiwi John , Pulgarin Cesar , Rtimi Sami
Published: October 2016

The contamination of air and water is one of the major concerns towards the development of a sustainable world in the 21st century. In this context many efforts are devoted to the design of photocatalytic paints able to degrade chemical and biological impurities present in air and water. In this work, the photocatalytic activity of hybrid films formed from the blends of pure acrylic or core/shell fluorinated/acrylic waterborne dispersions and photocatalytic titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticle dispersions was first assessed. The films show photocatalytic activity (inactivation of the Escherichia coli bacteria under UV irradiation) at the substrate-film interface, but very reduced activity in the air-film interface due to the substantially lower amount of the TiO2 nanoparticles in the vicinity of this interface. In a second step, the fluorinated/(meth)acrylic core-shell hybrid dispersions were used as binders in the formulation of waterborne photocatalytic paints and the stability of the paints, in terms of gloss retain and color change, was assessed during 5000 hours of accelerated weathering tests (QUV-B). Although a decrease in gloss retention and increased color change occurs during the first 1000 hours of exposure, no further change of these properties takes place, which is an excellent indication of stable photocatalytic paints.
A Robust Sparse Adaptive Filtering Algorithm with a Correntropy Induced Metric Constraint for Broadband Multi-Path Channel Estimation
Authors: Li Yingsong , Jin Zhan , Wang Yanyan , Yang Rui
Published: October 2016

A robust sparse least-mean mixture-norm (LMMN) algorithm is proposed, and its performance is appraised in the context of estimating a broadband multi-path wireless channel. The proposed algorithm is implemented via integrating a correntropy-induced metric (CIM) penalty into the conventional LMMN algorithm to modify the basic cost function, which is denoted as the CIM-based LMMN (CIM-LMMN) algorithm. The proposed CIM-LMMN algorithm is derived in detail within the kernel framework. The updating equation of CIM-LMMN can provide a zero attractor to attract the non-dominant channel coefficients to zeros, and it also gives a tradeoff between the sparsity and the estimation misalignment. Moreover, the channel estimation behavior is investigated over a broadband sparse multi-path wireless channel, and the simulation results are compared with the least mean square/fourth (LMS/F), least mean square (LMS), least mean fourth (LMF) and the recently-developed sparse channel estimation algorithms. The channel estimation performance obtained from the designated sparse channel estimation demonstrates that the CIM-LMMN algorithm outperforms the recently-developed sparse LMMN algorithms and the relevant sparse channel estimation algorithms. From the results, we can see that our CIM-LMMN algorithm is robust and is superior to these mentioned algorithms in terms of both the convergence speed rate and the channel estimation misalignment for estimating a sparse channel.
Optimal Sizing of Vanadium Redox Flow Battery Systems for Residential Applications Based on Battery Electrochemical Characteristics
Authors: Zhang Xinan , Li Yifeng , Skyllas-Kazacos Maria , Bao Jie
Published: October 2016

The penetration of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in residential areas contributes to the generation and usage of renewable energy. Despite its advantages, the PV system also creates problems caused by the intermittency of renewable energy. As suggested by researchers, such problems deteriorate the applicability of the PV system and have to be resolved by employing a battery energy storage system (BESS). With concern for the high investment cost, the choice of a cost-effective BESS with proper sizing is necessary. To this end, this paper proposes the employment of a vanadium redox flow battery (VRB), which possesses a long cycle life and high energy efficiency, for residential users with PV systems. It further proposes methods of computing the capital and maintenance cost of VRB systems and evaluating battery efficiency based on VRB electrochemical characteristics. Furthermore, by considering the cost and efficiency of VRB, the prevalent time-of-use electricity price, the solar feed-in tariff, the solar power profile and the user load pattern, an optimal sizing algorithm for VRB systems is proposed. Simulation studies are carried out to show the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Water, Rather than Temperature, Dominantly Impacts How Soil Fauna Affect Dissolved Carbon and Nitrogen Release from Fresh Litter during Early Litter Decomposition
Authors: Liao Shu , Ni Xiangyin , Yang Wanqin , Li Han , Wang Bin , Fu Changkun , Xu Zhenfeng , Tan Bo , Wu Fuzhong
Published: October 2016

Longstanding observations suggest that dissolved materials are lost from fresh litter through leaching, but the role of soil fauna in controlling this process has been poorly documented. In this study, a litterbag experiment employing litterbags with different mesh sizes (3 mm to permit soil fauna access and 0.04 mm to exclude fauna access) was conducted in three habitats (arid valley, ecotone and subalpine forest) with changes in climate and vegetation types to evaluate the effects of soil fauna on the concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and total dissolved nitrogen (TDN) during the first year of decomposition. The results showed that the individual density and community abundance of soil fauna greatly varied among these habitats, but Prostigmata, Isotomidae and Oribatida were the dominant soil invertebrates. At the end of the experiment, the mass remaining of foliar litter ranged from 58% for shrub litter to 77% for birch litter, and the DOC and TDN concentrations decreased to 54%–85% and increased to 34%–269%, respectively, when soil fauna were not present. The effects of soil fauna on the concentrations of both DOC and TDN in foliar litter were greater in the subalpine forest (wetter but colder) during the winter and in the arid valley (warmer but drier) during the growing season, and this effect was positively correlated with water content. Moreover, the effects of fauna on DOC and TDN concentrations were greater for high-quality litter and were related to the C/N ratio. These results suggest that water, rather than temperature, dominates how fauna affect the release of dissolved substances from fresh litter.
Effects of MicroRNA-23a on Differentiation and Gene Expression Profiles in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Huang Yong , Huang Jinxiu , Qi Renli , Wang Qi , Wu Yongjiang , Wang Jing
Published: October 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate growth, development, and programmed death of cells. A newly-published study has shown that miRNA-23a could regulate 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation. Here, we identified miRNA-23a as a negative regulator of 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation again. Over-expression of miRNA-23a inhibited differentiation and decreased lipogenesis as well as down-regulated mRNA and protein expression of both peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) γ and fatty acid binding protein (FABP) 4, whereas knock down of miRNA-23a showed the opposite effects on differentiation as well as increasing the number of apoptotic cells. Additionally, digital gene expression profiling sequencing (DGE-Seq) was used to assay changes in gene expression profiles following alterations in the level of miR-23a. In total, over-expression or knock down of miRNA-23a significantly changed the expression of 313 and 425 genes, respectively. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses indicated that these genes were mainly involved in the stress response, immune system, metabolism, cell cycle, among other pathways. Additionally, the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (Stat1) was shown to be a target of miRNA-23a by computational and dual-luciferase reporter assays that indicated Janus Kinase (Jak)-Stat signal pathway was implicated in regulating adipogenesis mediated by miRNA-23a in adipocytes.
Morphine Protects Spinal Cord Astrocytes from Glutamate-Induced Apoptosis via Reducing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Zhang Chao , Wang Chendan , Ren Jianbo , Guo Xiangjie , Yun Keming
Published: October 2016

Glutamate is not only a neurotransmitter but also an important neurotoxin in central nervous system (CNS). Chronic elevation of glutamate induces both neuronal and glial cell apoptosis. However, its effect on astrocytes is complex and still remains unclear. In this study, we investigated whether morphine, a common opioid ligand, could affect glutamate-induced apoptosis in astrocytes. Primary cultured astrocytes were incubated with glutamate in the presence/absence of morphine. It was found that morphine could reduce glutamate-induced apoptosis of astrocytes. Furthermore, glutamate activated Ca2+ release, thereby inducing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in astrocytes, while morphine attenuated this deleterious effect. Using siRNA to reduce the expression of κ-opioid receptor, morphine could not effectively inhibit glutamate-stimulated Ca2+ release in astrocytes, the protective effect of morphine on glutamate-injured astrocytes was also suppressed. These results suggested that morphine could protect astrocytes from glutamate-induced apoptosis via reducing Ca2+ overload and ER stress pathways. In conclusion, this study indicated that excitotoxicity participated in the glutamate mediated apoptosis in astrocytes, while morphine attenuated this deleterious effect via regulating Ca2+ release and ER stress.
Progressive Vascular Functional and Structural Damage in a Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Model in Preterm Rabbits Exposed to Hyperoxia
Authors: Jiménez Julio , Richter Jute , Nagatomo Taro , Salaets Thomas , Quarck Rozenn , Wagennar Allard , Wang Hongmei , Vanoirbeek Jeroen , Deprest Jan , Toelen Jaan
Published: October 2016

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is caused by preterm neonatal lung injury and results in oxygen dependency and pulmonary hypertension. Current clinical management fails to reduce the incidence of BPD, which calls for novel therapies. Fetal rabbits have a lung development that mimics humans and can be used as a translational model to test novel treatment options. In preterm rabbits, exposure to hyperoxia leads to parenchymal changes, yet vascular damage has not been studied in this model. In this study we document the early functional and structural changes of the lung vasculature in preterm rabbits that are induced by hyperoxia after birth. Pulmonary artery Doppler measurements, micro-CT barium angiograms and media thickness of peripheral pulmonary arteries were affected after seven days of hyperoxia when compared to controls. The parenchyma was also affected both at the functional and structural level. Lung function testing showed higher tissue resistance and elastance, with a decreased lung compliance and lung capacity. Histologically hyperoxia leads to fewer and larger alveoli with thicker walls, less developed distal airways and more inflammation than normoxia. In conclusion, we show that the rabbit model develops pulmonary hypertension and developmental lung arrest after preterm lung injury, which parallel the early changes in human BPD. Thus it enables the testing of pharmaceutical agents that target the cardiovascular compartment of the lung for further translation towards the clinic.
Tribocorrosion Study of Ordinary and Laser-Melted Ti6Al4V Alloy
Authors: Silva Danillo , Churiaque Cristina , Bastos Ivan , Sánchez-Amaya José
Published: October 2016

Titanium alloys are used in biomedical implants, as well as in other applications, due to the excellent combination of corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. However, the tribocorrosion resistance of titanium alloy is normally not satisfactory. Therefore, surface modification is a way to improve this specific performance. In the present paper, laser surface-modified samples were tested in corrosion and pin-on-disk tribocorrosion testing in 0.90% NaCl under an average Hertzian pressure of 410 MPa against an alumina sphere. Laser-modified samples of Ti6Al4V were compared with ordinary Ti6Al4V alloy. Electrochemical impedance showed higher modulus for laser-treated samples than for ordinary Ti6Al4V ones. Moreover, atomic force microscopy revealed that laser-treated surfaces presented less wear than ordinary alloy for the initial exposure. For a further exposure to wear, i.e., when the wear depth is beyond the initial laser-affected layer, both materials showed similar corrosion behavior. Microstructure analysis and finite element method simulations revealed that the different behavior between the initial and the extensive rubbing was related to a fine martensite-rich external layer developed on the irradiated surface of the fusion zone.
Development and Applications of the Copper-Catalyzed Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition (CuAAC) as a Bioorthogonal Reaction
Authors: Li Li , Zhang Zhiyuan
Published: October 2016

The emergence of bioorthogonal reactions has greatly broadened the scope of biomolecule labeling and detecting. Of all the bioorthogonal reactions that have been developed, the copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) is the most widely applied one, mainly because of its relatively fast kinetics and high efficiency. However, the introduction of copper species to in vivo systems raises the issue of potential toxicity. In order to reduce the copper-induced toxicity and further improve the reaction kinetics and efficiency, different strategies have been adopted, including the development of diverse copper chelating ligands to assist the catalytic cycle and the development of chelating azides as reagents. Up to now, the optimization of CuAAC has facilitated its applications in labeling and identifying either specific biomolecule species or on the omics level. Herein, we mainly discuss the efforts in the development of CuAAC to better fit the bioorthogonal reaction criteria and its bioorthogonal applications both in vivo and in vitro.
Isobutylhydroxyamides from Zanthoxylum bungeanum and Their Suppression of NO Production
Authors: Wang Yuan , Li Chun-Huan , Luo Bo , Sun Ya , Kim Young , Wei An-Zhi , Gao Jin-Ming
Published: October 2016

Four new unsaturated aliphatic acid amides, named zanthoamides A–D (1–4), and eight known ones—tetrahydrobungeanool (5), ZP-amide A (6), ZP-amide B (7), ZP-amide C (8), ZP-amide D (9), ZP-amide E (10), bugeanumamide A (11), and (2E,7E,9E)-N-(2-hydroxy-2-methylpropyl)-6,11-dioxo-2,7,9-dodecatrienamide (12)—were isolated from the pericarps of Zanthoxylum bungeanum. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by extensive use of spectroscopic methods, including HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR analyses and comparison with previously reported data. Compound 4 contained a rare C6 fatty acid unit with an acetal group. Results revealed that compounds 1, 5, 6, and 12 showed inhibitory effects on nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, with IC50values of 48.7 ± 0.32, 27.1 ± 1.15, 49.8 ± 0.38, and 39.4 ± 0.63 µM, respectively, while the other compounds were inactive (IC50 > 60 μM). They could contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects of Z. bungeanum by suppression of NO production.
Effect of Bifidobacterium breve on the Intestinal Microbiota of Coeliac Children on a Gluten Free Diet: A Pilot Study
Authors: Quagliariello Andrea , Aloisio Irene , Bozzi Cionci Nicole , Luiselli Donata , D’Auria Giuseppe , Martinez-Priego Llúcia , Pérez-Villarroya David , Langerholc Tomaž , Primec Maša , Mičetić-Turk Dušanka , Di Gioia Diana
Published: October 2016

Coeliac disease (CD) is associated with alterations of the intestinal microbiota. Although several Bifidobacterium strains showed anti-inflammatory activity and prevention of toxic gliadin peptides generation in vitro, few data are available on their efficacy when administered to CD subjects. This study evaluated the effect of administration for three months of a food supplement based on two Bifidobacterium breve strains (B632 and BR03) to restore the gut microbial balance in coeliac children on a gluten free diet (GFD). Microbial DNA was extracted from faeces of 40 coeliac children before and after probiotic or placebo administration and 16 healthy children (Control group). Sequencing of the amplified V3-V4 hypervariable region of 16S rRNA gene as well as qPCR of Bidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus spp., Bacteroides fragilis group Clostridium sensu stricto and enterobacteria were performed. The comparison between CD subjects and Control group revealed an alteration in the intestinal microbial composition of coeliacs mainly characterized by a reduction of the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, of Actinobacteria and Euryarchaeota. Regarding the effects of the probiotic, an increase of Actinobacteria was found as well as a re-establishment of the physiological Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Therefore, a three-month administration of B. breve strains helps in restoring the healthy percentage of main microbial components.