bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When “the Cure” Is the Risk: Understanding How Substance Use Affects HIV and HCV in a Layered Risk Environment in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Authors: Hernández Diana , Castellón Pedro C. , Fernández Yohansa , Torres-Cardona Francisco A. , Parish Carrigan , Gorshein Danielle , Vargas Vidot Jose , Miranda de Leon Sandra , Rodriguez Allan , Santana Bagur Jorge , Feaster Daniel J. , Schackman Bruce R. , Metsch Lisa R.
Published: September 2017

Background. Substance use, particularly injection drug use, continues to fuel the HIV/HCV (hepatitis C virus) epidemics in San Juan, Puerto Rico (PR). Aim. This article examines individual and sociostructural factors that affect HIV/HCV risk among people who use drugs (PWUD) living with or at risk for HIV/HCV in San Juan, PR. Findings were used to inform a community-level intervention to enhance HIV care access and retention for this population. Method. A rapid ethnographic assessment in collaboration with a community-based organization was conducted. Data collection took place between June and December 2013 and included field observations, 49 unstructured interviews with PWUD, and 19 key informant interviews with community stakeholders. Fieldnotes, photographs, and interview transcripts were analyzed for recurrent themes and to address the intervention-planning needs. Study results are presented as fieldnote excerpts, direct quotes from interviews, and photographs. Results. Findings suggest that PWUD in PR face myriad challenges that affect HIV/HCV risk and hinder linkage to and retention in care. Results describe a layered risk environment where PWUD encounter many barriers to prevention, care, and treatment such as transience, social isolation, stigma, limited housing options, and inadequate medical and substance use disorder treatment services. Discussion. These observed circumstances provide an empirical basis for the development and evaluation of comprehensive interventions that may serve to reduce barriers to care and link individuals to other supportive services. Conclusion. New approaches and comprehensive interventions are needed to break the structures that perpetuate risk and lack of engagement and retention in HIV care and substance use disorder treatment in San Juan.
Towards a Critical Health Equity Research Stance: Why Epistemology and Methodology Matter More Than Qualitative Methods
Authors: Bowleg Lisa
Published: September 2017

Qualitative methods are not intrinsically progressive. Methods are simply tools to conduct research. Epistemology, the justification of knowledge, shapes methodology and methods, and thus is a vital starting point for a critical health equity research stance, regardless of whether the methods are qualitative, quantitative, or mixed. In line with this premise, I address four themes in this commentary. First, I criticize the ubiquitous and uncritical use of the term health disparities in U.S. public health. Next, I advocate for the increased use of qualitative methodologies—namely, photovoice and critical ethnography—that, pursuant to critical approaches, prioritize dismantling social–structural inequities as a prerequisite to health equity. Thereafter, I discuss epistemological stance and its influence on all aspects of the research process. Finally, I highlight my critical discourse analysis HIV prevention research based on individual interviews and focus groups with Black men, as an example of a critical health equity research approach.
A modified state space differential quadrature method for free vibration analysis of soft-core sandwich panels
Authors: Udayakumar Balavishnu , Gopal KV Nagendra
Published: September 2017

Modifications and improvements to conventional state space differential quadrature method are proposed for free vibration analysis of thick, soft-core sandwich panels with arbitrary edge boundary conditions, using an exact two-dimensional elasticity model. The modifications are based on a systematic procedure to implement all possible combinations of edge boundary conditions including simply supported, clamped, free and guided edges. Natural frequencies and mode shapes are obtained and compared with exact elasticity solutions from state space method and approximate solution from finite element simulations; demonstrating the high numerical accuracy and rapid convergence of the modified method. Further, the proposed framework is compared to the conventional implementation of the state space differential quadrature method for thick cantilever sandwich panels and is shown to give results with better accuracy and faster convergence.
A C0 three-node triangular element based on preprocessing approach for thick sandwich plates
Authors: Zhen Wu , Rui Ma , Wanji Chen
Published: September 2017

This paper will try to overcome two difficulties encountered by the C0 three-node triangular element based on the displacement-based higher-order models. They are (i) transverse shear stresses computed from constitutive equations vanish at the clamped edges, and (ii) it is difficult to accurately produce the transverse shear stresses even using the integration of the three-dimensional equilibrium equation. Invalidation of the equilibrium equation approach ought to attribute to the higher-order derivations of displacement parameters involved in transverse shear stress components after integrating three-dimensional equilibrium equation. Thus, the higher-order derivatives of displacement parameters will be taken out from transverse shear stress field by using the three-field Hu–Washizu variational principle before the finite element procedure is implemented. Therefore, such method is named as the preprocessing method for transverse shear stresses in present work. Because the higher-order derivatives of displacement parameters have been eliminated, a C0 three-node triangular element based on the higher-order zig-zag theory can be presented by using the linear interpolation function. Performance of the proposed element is numerically evaluated by analyzing multilayered sandwich plates with different loading conditions, lamination sequences, material constants and boundary conditions, and it can be found that the present model works well in the finite element framework.
Prognosis of degradation progress of ball bearings using supervised machine learning
Authors: Nistane VM , Harsha SP
Published: September 2017

Recently, the diagnostics and prognostics have been getting much attention in the field of vibration and play a significant role in avoiding accidents. In rotary machines, bearing failure is one of the major causes for a shutdown. The health conditions of rotary machines can be monitored through the vibration signal. Health condition indicators are needed to highlight with proper representation of fault feature for bearing prognostics. Hence, in the present paper, the vibration signature analysis of bearing has been attempted. For that purpose, in this paper, an approach of Hamiltonian theory for quantum harmonic oscillator is used for the evaluation of degradation feature from an original feature of accelerometer signals of the bearing. The main focus of this paper is to study the progress of the prognosis of degradation feature using k-Nearest Neighbours, support vector machine and decision tree. An experimental investigation on ball bearing has been conducted to see the effectiveness of the k-Nearest Neighbours, support vector machine, and decision trees by applying the acquired vibration signals. Experimental results are compared, which indicated an accurate prediction of bearing degradation and reserve information of bearing prognosis and severities.
Ancient cosmopolitanism: Feminism and the rethinking of Maya inter-regional interactions during the Late Classic to Postclassic periods (ca. 600–1521 CE)
Authors: Halperin Christina T
Published: September 2017

The consideration of cosmopolitanism in archaeology provides a useful lens for thinking about and expanding how to conceive of inter-regional interactions and experiences of belonging in the ancient world. Previous models in Mesoamerican archaeology often implicitly follow a cosmopolitanism of elite male citizens of the world. In incorporating a feminist perspective to the analysis of inter-regional relations, this paper examines Maya women’s roles in cosmopolitan encounters during the Late Classic to Postclassic periods (ca. 600–1521 CE) with a particular focus on merchant women, clothing as a statement of belonging in a larger world, and the adoption of new cooking practices. Such a perspective underscores the ways in which inter-regional interactions in Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica may have been unevenly and contingently experienced, rather than homogenously adopted, and that the articulation of different worlds need not require everyone to be highly mobile.
A case study comparing research integrity, governance and ethics frameworks to facilitate collaboration between Bristol and Kyoto University
Authors: Ito Tatsuya , Tallents Gillian , McKervey Liam , Davies Rachel , Brooke Anna , Bisset Jessica , Harley Jake , Whitman Birgit
Published: September 2017

Researchers and non-commercial institutions negotiate complex legislation and guidance when planning and conducting research studies. The documents and processes required differ across nations and their regulatory bodies and it can be challenging to conduct an international study, especially for non-commercial organisations. In this study, colleagues from Japan and the UK worked closely together focusing on the legislation, organisations, trial processes, ethics review and quality assurance frameworks of clinical trials in two countries, the UK, demonstrated on the model of practices in the University of Bristol and University Hospital Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, and Japan, based on the model in Kyoto University Hospital. Although the ICH tripartite guidelines (ICH-GCP) were developed with participation from both the EU and Japan the set-up and approval processes for clinical trials are different between the two countries while the expectations for quality assurance are similar. We will argue that the framework in the UK is well-developed for performing multi-centre trials both, commercially and non-commercially sponsored. Japan has an excellent infrastructure to conduct early phase trials and commercially sponsored trials. Multi-centre investigator led trials are currently a challenge due to the complex and resource intense approval systems. A good model for collaboration between Bristol and Kyoto might be where early translational studies are set-up in Japan and later phases of the studies are conducted in the UK.
The diagnostic accuracy of 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging for detecting root avulsions in traumatic adult brachial plexus injuries
Authors: Wade Ryckie G. , Itte Vinay , Rankine James J. , Ridgway John P. , Bourke Grainne
Published: September 2017

Identification of root avulsions is of critical importance in traumatic brachial plexus injuries because it alters the reconstruction and prognosis. Pre-operative magnetic resonance imaging is gaining popularity, but there is limited and conflicting data on its diagnostic accuracy for root avulsion. This cohort study describes consecutive patients requiring brachial plexus exploration following trauma between 2008 and 2016. The index test was magnetic resonance imaging at 1.5 Tesla and the reference test was operative exploration of the supraclavicular plexus. Complete data from 29 males was available. The diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging for root avulsion(s) of C5-T1 was 79%. The diagnostic accuracy of a pseudomeningocoele as a surrogate marker of root avulsion(s) of C5-T1 was 68%. We conclude that pseudomeningocoles were not a reliable sign of root avulsion and magnetic resonance imaging has modest diagnostic accuracy for root avulsions in the context of adult traumatic brachial plexus injuries.

Level of evidence: III
The calendar of cytokines: Seasonal variation of circulating cytokines in chronic venous insufficiency
Authors: Spath Paolo , Tisato Veronica , Gianesini Sergio , Tessari Mirko , Menegatti Erica , Manfredini Roberto , Occhionorelli Savino , Secchiero Paola , Zamboni Paolo
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To assess if in chronic venous insufficiency, there is a seasonal variation of cytokines levels which could explain the typical worsening of symptoms during Spring and Summer.

Participants

From 193 chronic venous insufficiency patients, we selected 32 patients in clinical stage C2–C3 of the Clinical–Etiology–Anatomy–Pathophysiology classification.

Design

A prospective, comparative and blinded cytokines assessment in two different seasons.

Setting

We sorted patients by two homogenous groups, 17 Autumn Group and 15 Spring Group. A complete clinical and haemodynamic assessment and laboratory analysis of 22 circulating cytokines were performed on each patient.

Main outcome measures

Circulating cytokines levels assessment.

Results

The two groups resulted homogenous for age, gender, clinical class, and haemodynamic parameters. Comparing cytokines expressions in Autumn Group vs. Spring Group, we found a significant difference of 11 out of 22 circulating cytokines (p < 0.05). Particularly Eotaxin, Interleukin-8, Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1, Tumour Necrosis Factor-α and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor were increased in Autumn compared to the Control Group (p < 0.001); while significantly reduced in Spring, within the normal range (p, not significant).

Conclusions

Symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency are self-reported by patients more intense during warm seasons. Surprisingly, in our study, cytokines levels were significantly higher during Autumn and downregulated in Spring. These variations show for the first time the presence of a ‘Calendar of Cytokines’ in chronic venous insufficiency, which needs to be further investigated.
Role of Sonography in Predicting the Hormone Receptor Status of Breast Cancer: A Prospective Study
Authors: Tandon Anupama , Srivastava Prachi , Manchanda Smita , Wadhwa Neelam , Gupta Natasha , Kaur Navneet , Pant C. S. , Pal Raj , Bhatt Shuchi
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this study was to determine the predictive value of sonography in identifying the receptor status of breast cancer. Sonograms were performed on 73 patients with breast cancer by two experienced sonologists, and the sonographic features such as tumor size, shape, margins, vascularity, posterior acoustic features, and architectural distortion of surrounding tissues were studied. These were then correlated with the receptor status, that is, triple negative versus non-triple negative. Triple-negative breast cancer was associated with large size, circumscribed margins, posterior acoustic enhancement, high vascularity, and lack of architectural distortion. Non-triple-negative breast cancer tumors revealed smaller sizes with spiculated margins, posterior shadowing, lower vascularity, and architectural distortion of surrounding tissues. Sonography revealed a high sensitivity and specificity (84.0% and 81.2%, respectively) on multivariate analysis for identifying receptor status prospectively. Interobserver agreement was also good. In conclusion, sonography may play a valuable role in prospectively predicting the receptor status in breast cancer and can serve as a potential tool for detecting triple-negative cancer.
Leószilárdite, the first Na,Mg-containing uranyl carbonate from the Markey Mine, San Juan County, Utah, USA
Authors: Olds Travis A. , Sadergaski Luke R. , Plášil Jakub , Kampf Anthony R. , Burns Peter C. , Steele Ian M. , Marty Joe , Carlson Shawn M. , Mills Owen P.
Published: September 2017

Leószilárdite (IMA2015-128), Na6Mg(UO2)2(CO3)6·6H2O, was found in the Markey Mine, Red Canyon, White Canyon District, San Juan County, Utah, USA, in areas with abundant andersonite, natrozippeite, gypsum, anhydrite, and probable hydromagnesite along with other secondary uranium minerals bayleyite, čejkaite and johannite. The new mineral occurs as aggregates of pale yellow bladed crystals flattened on ﹛001﹜ and elongated along [010], individually reaching up to 0.2 mmlong. More commonly it occurs as pale yellow pearlescent masses to 2 mm consisting of very small plates. Leószilárdite fluoresces green under both longwave and shortwave ultraviolet light, and is translucent with a white streak, hardness of 2 (Mohs), and brittle tenacity with uneven fracture. The new mineral is readily soluble in room temperature H2O. Crystals have perfect cleavage along ﹛001﹜, and exhibit the forms ﹛110﹜,﹛001﹜,﹛100﹜,﹛101﹜ and ﹛101﹜. Optically, leószilárdite is biaxial (-), α= 1.504(1), β= 1.597(1), γ= 1.628(1) (white light); 2V (meas.) = 57(1)°, 2V (calc.) = 57.1°; dispersion r > v, slight. Pleochroism: X= colourless, Y and Z= light yellow; X<Y ≈ Z The average of six wavelength dispersive spectroscopic analyses provided Na2O 14.54, MgO 3.05, UO3 47.95, CO2 22.13, H2O 9.51, total 97.18 wt.%. The empirical formula is Na5.60Mg0.90U2O28C6H12.60, based on 28 O apfu. Leószilárdite is monoclinic, C2/m, a = 11.6093(21), b = 6.7843(13), c = 15.1058(28) Å, β = 91.378(3)°, V= 1189.4(4) Å3 and Z = 2. The crystal structure (R1 = 0.0387 for 1394 reflections with Iobs > 4σI), consists of uranyl tricarbonate anion clusters [(UO2)(CO3)3]4- held together in part by irregular chains of NaO5(H2O) polyhedra sub parallel to [010]. Individual uranyl tricarbonate clusters are also linked together by three-octahedron units consisting of two Na-centred octahedra that share the opposite faces of a Mg-centred octahedron at the centre (Na–Mg–Na), and have the composition Na2MgO12(H2O)4. The name of the new mineral honours the Hungarian-American physicist, inventor and biologist Dr. Leó Szilárd (1898–1964).
Crystal chemistry of zinc incorporation in strunzite-group minerals containing zeolitic water
Authors: Grey I. E. , Keck E. , MacRae C. M. , Glenn A. M. , Kampf A. R. , Nash B. P. , Mills S. J.
Published: September 2017

A comparative study is presented of the chemistry and crystallography of zinc-bearing strunzites from Hagendorf Süd, Bavaria, Germany and the Sitio do Castelo mine, Folgosinho, Portugal. Electron microprobe analyses of samples from the two localities show quite different cation substitutions. The Hagendorf Süd mineral is a Zn-bearing ferristrunzite, with compositional zoning due to Zn2+replacing predominantly Fe3+as well as minor Mn2+, whereas the Portugese mineral is a Zn-bearing strunzite, in which Zn2+replaces Mn2+, with minor replacement of Fe3+by Mn3+. Zincostrunzite, with dominant Zn in the interlayer octahedrally coordinated site, is a new strunzite-group mineral that has been characterized at both locations. Analysis of single-crystal synchrotron data for zinc-bearing ferristrunzite and zincostrunzite crystals from Hagendorf Süd show that the structures of both minerals contain zeolitic water in the interlayer region. The formula for strunzite-group minerals containing the zeolitic water isMFe23+(PO4)2(OH)2·6.5H2O, M=Fe, Mn, Zn. This formulation agrees with that found for zincostrunzite from the Sitio do Castelo mine, but differs from that reported previously for strunzite,MFe2+(PO4)2(OH)2·6H2O, which has no interlayer water. Interestingly, the zincostrunzites from the two localities differ in the location of the interlayer water molecule, with a corresponding difference in the H bonding.
Dzierżanowskite, CaCu2S2 – a new natural thiocuprate from Jabel Harmun, Judean Desert, Palestine Autonomy, Israel
Authors: Galuskina Irina O. , Galuskin Evgeny V. , Prusik Krystian , Vapnik Yevgeny , Juroszek Rafał , Jeżak Lidia , Murashko Mikhail
Published: September 2017

Dzierżanowskite, , a thiocuprate, was found in larnite pseudoconglomerate rocks of the Hatrurim Complex at Jabel Harmun, Palestinian Autonomy, Israel. Dzierżanowskite occurs in larnite pebbles, which are embedded in a low-temperature mineral matrix. Associated minerals are larnite, brownmillerite, fluorellestadite, ye'elimite, gehlenite, periclase, ternesite, nabimusaite, vorlanite, vapnikite, fluormayenite, fluorkyuygenite, oldhamite, jasmundite, covellite, chalcocite and pyrrhotite. Electron microprobe analyses yield an average composition of Cu 55.25, Fe 0.13, S 27.46 and Ca 16.99, total 99.83 wt.%. The empirical formula of dzierżanowskite, based on 5 atoms, is Ca0.98Cu2.02Fe0.01S1.99. Dzierżanowskite forms grains up to 15 μm in size or rims on oldhamite and laminar intergrowths with chalcocite and covellite. Dzierżanowskite is dark orange, has a cream streak and a submetallic lustre. In reflected light it is grey, with a cream tint and characteristic yellow-orange internal reflections. The calculated density of dzierżanowskite is 4.391 g cm -3. Three bands at 300, 103 and 86 cm -1 are observed in the Raman spectrum. The strongest lines of the calculated powder diffraction pattern are [d, Å (I) hkl]: 2.358(100) 102, 1.970(93)110, 3.023(78) 011, 6.523(36) 001, 3.412 (28) 100, 1.834(28) 103. Dzierżanowskite was also found in unusual jasmundite rocks, forming small ‘paleofumaroles’ within areas of low-temperature hydrothermal rocks bearing larnite pseudoconglomerates at Jabel Harmun. Dzierżanowskite is a superimposed phase of the high-temperature alteration of pyrometamorphic rocks subjected to by-products (melts/fluids and gases) of pyrometamorphism originating in the deeper levels of combustion.
Complex exsolution microstructures in ilmenite–pyrophanite from the Garnet Codera dyke pegmatite (Central Italian Alps): an electron microscopy investigation
Authors: Capitani Gian Carlo
Published: September 2017

Ilmenite–pyrophanite crystals from a garnet pegmatite dyke from the Upper Codera Valley (Sondrio, Italian Alps) showing exsolutions of titanohematite and columbite-tantalite were investigated by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The titanohematite precipitates share the same crystallographic orientation of the ilmenite-pyrophanite host, are bean-shaped when observed on sections inclined to the pinacoidal section, and are elongated when observed on sections closer to the prism section, possibly because of their discoidal shape parallel to (001). The columbite-tantalite precipitates form a hexagonal network of needles elongated along ⟨110⟩ of the ilmenite–pyrophanite and titanohematite host. The following crystallographic relationship was established: [100]Col//[001]Ilm; [001]Col//(110)Ilm; , which can be explained in terms of preservation of the oxygen close packing between the ilmenite and columbite structures. The interfaces between any two of the three different phases are coherent but show lattice strain contrast and sometimes dislocations because of their different unit-cell dimensions. On the basis of textural observations, titanohematite is supposed to exsolve first, followed by columbite-tantalite at temperatures below 500°C. The addition of MnO to the Fe2O3–FeTiO3 system is supposed to considerably influence the topology of the related T-X phase diagram and the solubility of Nb2O5 and Ta2O5 in this system.
At least 20% donor myeloid chimerism is necessary to reverse the sickle phenotype after allogeneic HSCT
Authors: Fitzhugh Courtney D. , Cordes Stefan , Taylor Tiffani , Coles Wynona , Roskom Katherine , Link Mary , Hsieh Matthew M. , Tisdale John F.
Published: September 2017

Key Points

Results based on our allogeneic model suggest genetic strategies aimed at correcting at least 20% of HSCs are necessary to reverse SCD. A minority of donor myeloid cells is adequate because of the vast differences in RBC survival between donor and recipient.
Strange Bedfellows No More: How Integrated Stem-Cell Transplantation and Palliative Care Programs Can Together Improve End-of-Life Care
Authors: Levine Deena R. , Baker Justin N. , Wolfe Joanne , Lehmann Leslie E. , Ullrich Christina
Published: September 2017

In the intense, cure-oriented setting of hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT), delivery of high-quality palliative and end-of-life care is a unique challenge. Although HSCT affords patients a chance for cure, it carries a significant risk of morbidity and mortality. During HSCT, patients usually experience high symptom burden and a significant decrease in quality of life that can persist for long periods. When morbidity is high and the chance of cure remote, the tendency after HSCT is to continue intensive medical interventions with curative intent. The nature of the complications and overall condition of some patients may render survival an unrealistic goal and, as such, continuation of artificial life-sustaining measures in these patients may prolong suffering and preclude patient and family preparation for end of life. Palliative care focuses on the well-being of patients with life-threatening conditions and their families, irrespective of the goals of care or anticipated outcome. Although not inherently at odds with HSCT, palliative care historically has been rarely offered to HSCT recipients. Recent evidence suggests that HSCT recipients would benefit from collaborative efforts between HSCT and palliative care services, particularly when initiated early in the transplantation course. We review palliative and end-of-life care in HSCT and present models for integrating palliative care into HSCT care. With open communication, respect for roles, and a spirit of collaboration, HSCT and palliative care can effectively join forces to provide high-quality, multidisciplinary care for these highly vulnerable patients and their families.
Seeking asylum while pregnant
Authors: Neve Kirsty Rowland
Published: September 2017

After completing an elective placement working with pregnant women seeking asylum, Kirsty Rowland Neve reflects on her experience, at a time of national media focus on migration
Lesson Study: Five steps to success
Authors: Cunningham Maria
Published: September 2017

Lesson Study, a collaborative, pupil-focused approach to CPD, is gaining popularity in the UK. Maria Cunningham discusses how to implement Lesson Study effectively in a primary school setting
Early Help – getting it right
Authors: Christian Ann Marie
Published: September 2017

Early intervention is crucial if we are to give pupils the best chances of success. Ann Marie Christian offers her practical strategies and advice on creating and managing an effective early help programme
Headship: The first 100 days
Authors: Constable Daniel-John
Published: September 2017

In July, headteacher Daniel-John Constable came to the end of his first year of headship. He reflects on the experience and discusses the lessons he learned and the challenges he faced during his first 100 days in the hot seat
Wrinkle reduction: what are the main treatment options available to patients?
Authors: Hubbard Kev
Published: September 2017

Wrinkles remain a primary concern for aesthetic patients, as wrinkles are often one of the first visible signs of ageing. Aesthetic practitioners need to have a thorough understanding of the different interventions available for this indication, as well as the role of intrinsic and extrinsic factors of ageing and the impact they will have on treatment outcomes. This paper provides an overview of some popular treatment modalities for the reduction of facial wrinkles. The paper is mainly focused on the use of botulinum toxin and dermal fillers; however, several treatment modalities, such as radiofrequency and ultrasound, are also examined. Other considerations, such as body image and holistic patient assessment, are also explored.
Research provides new insight into the medical aesthetics sector
Authors: Willis Alison
Published: September 2017

The demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures is on the rise and the level of innovation within the sector is at an all-time high. But how is this playing out in terms of the treatments requested and the patient–practitioner relationship? Alison Willis outlines the findings of some original research which throws some light on the trends in the medical aesthetic marketplace
Preventing procrastination: step outside of your comfort zone with the 5-second rule
Authors: Ratcliffe Jason
Published: September 2017

In a rapidly evolving sector like medical aesthetics, clinic managers are required to revisit their business and marketing strategies to stay relevant and attractive to prospects. Jason Ratcliffe introduces a simple technique that can be used to help push aesthetic practitioners and members of their team to become more productive when promoting their clinic's brand
DESENVOLVIMENTO DE QUEIJO TIPO COTTAGE SEM LACTOSE COM ADIÇÃO DE FIBRAS E REDUÇÃO DE SÓDIO E GORDURA
Authors: Nicoletti Gabrieli , Verdi Kátia Joana , Endres Creciana Maria
Published: September 2017

O objetivo deste trabalho foi desenvolver, caracterizar e determinar a vida útil de queijo tipo cottage sem lactose, com adição de fibras e redução de sódio e gordura. Foram realizados testes experimentais para determinar a formulação final do queijo, a qual foi avaliada em diferentes tempos de armazenamento, de acordo com ensaios microbiológicos preconizados pela legislação vigente e paramêtros físico-químicos. O produto desenvolvido atendeu aos padrões físico-químicos se comparado ao queijo controle, apresentando 41% e 30% de redução de sódio e gordura, respectivamente e acréscimo de aproximadamente 5,31% de inulina, sem alterar as características sensoriais. O queijo apresentou estabilidade durante os 42 dias avaliados, não sofrendo nenhuma alteração físico-química (acidez) e microbiológica significativa que comprometesse a segurança e qualidade do produto. A adição de fibras e a redução de sódio também não influenciaram negativamente na sensorialidade do produto, sendo uma alternativa de produtos isento de lactose e com propriedades funcionais para o mercado de lácteos.
CARACTERIZAÇÃO FÍSICA E CONDIÇÕES SANITÁRIAS DO COMÉRCIO DE QUEIJO CABACINHA EM TRÊS MUNICÍPIOS DO VALE DO JEQUITINHONHA, MG, BRASIL
Authors: Filho Adair Da Silva Santos , Pires Christiano Vieira , Cardoso Weslley José , Pinto Maximiliano Soares , Oliveira Neide Judith Faria de
Published: September 2017

O queijo cabacinha, originário do Vale do Jequitinhonha, é obtido por aquecimento do coágulo, de forma semelhante à mussarela, porém a matéria prima não é pasteurizada e o produto final é armazenado sem embalagem e em temperatura ambiente. Esse derivado lácteo pode contribuir para a elevação da renda da população local, principalmente dos moradores das margens das rodovias, em função do fluxo de veículos e de possíveis compradores. Neste trabalho, objetivou-se conhecer as condições físicas e sanitárias dos locais de comércio do queijo artesanal cabacinha em três municípios do Vale do Jequitinhonha, MG, Brasil. Para tanto, inicialmente, foi realizado levantamento do número de locais de venda do derivado lácteo nos municípios de Medina, Cachoeira de Pajeú e Pedra Azul, localizados nas imediações das rodovias BR 251 e BR 116 no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Posteriormente, foi elaborada planilha para averiguações da estrutura física e condições sanitárias dos locais, preenchida em nova visitação in loco. Pode-se observar que a maioria dos pontos comerciais não possuía as condições adequadas, como ausência de paredes de alvenaria, de água canalizada e de sanitários ou pias. Era comum também a presença de possíveis vetores de contaminação nas imediações dos locais de venda do produto lácteo, como cães e insetos. Verificou-se que a maior parte dos queijos era exposta pendurada aos pares em barbantes e sem embalagem. O estudo demonstra a precariedade da estrutura física e das condições higiênico-sanitárias nos locais de comércio do queijo cabacinha. Por tratar-se de produto artesanal proveniente da agricultura familiar, que gera renda e emprego no campo, merecia mais atenção dos órgãos competentes estaduais e municipais.
Rancang Bangun Perangkat Eksperimen Hukum Archimedes untuk MTs LB/A Yaketunis Kelas VIII
Authors: Utami Rofiqoh , Winarti Winarti , Purwanto Joko
Published: September 2017

Blind students find difficulties whenever they are involved in the experiment of Archimedes principle as it requests an active visual role. Thus, it is very important to design a special tool for blind students so their practice of Archimedes principle become easier. This paper discusses a research finding which is an innovation of adaptive tools for blind students, such as beaker glass with Braille number, dynamometer with modification and Braille number (Braille Spring Balance) and recording lesson about Archimedes principle. This research done for students MTs LB / A Yaketunis Class VIII which aims at analyzing the quality of each tool by media experts, lesson experts, and physics teacher of MTs LB/A.This research is R & D with procedural models adapted from the development of the 4-D models, namely Define, Design, Develop, and Disseminate. According to media expert assessment, beaker glass with Braille number and Braille spring balance has a very good quality with percentage of their respective 100% of the ideal score, while the assessment by lesson experts for each tool have a good quality with percentage 80% and 73.33% of the ideal score, and physics teacher of MTs LB / A assessment for each tool have a very good quality with percentage 100%. According to the media and lesson experts, the recording lesson about Archimedes principle have a good quality with percentage 80% of the ideal score, according to physics teacher MTs LB / A, the recording tool has excellent quality either with percentage 91.82% of the ideal score. This research recommends the blinds students to utilize these innovative-adaptive tools which will enable them appropriately practice Archimedes principle as non-blind students.
Difficulties in Learning English Faced By Visually Impaired Students at Center of Language Development (P2B) in State Islamic University (UIN) Sunan Kalijaga
Authors: Aryanti Widya
Published: September 2017

The objectives of this research are to describe some learning strategies and difficulties faced by visually impaired students (VIS) in learning English at UIN Sunan Kalijaga and to describe some strategies of the lecturer in dealing with difficulties in English teaching and learning process for VIS at UIN Sunan Kalijaga.The type of research is descriptive qualitative research in the form of case study. In this research, the researcher used two instruments. They are observation and interview. There are three subjects involved in this research. They are two blind students and one low vision students. The observation was done when the researcher did teaching and learning process at Class Dakwah R. The data were taken from observation and interview. The researcher used the data to analyze the VIS’ difficulties in learning English.The result shows that there are some difficulties faced by VIS. These difficulties can be put into two different categories: internal and external difficulties. Internal difficulties come from the VIS themselves which relates to VIS’ sight conditions and their learning strategies. External difficulties come from the learning environment including difficulties from the lecturer, friends, materials and the facilities.VIS have different learning strategies. The lecturer should discuss some classroom adaptations such as seating arrangement, friends’ assistance and peer teaching, adapted facilities and exam accommodation, for instance exam assistance, longer exam time, inclusive examination and larger print for low vision students. Finally, the lecturer should choose appropriate teaching strategies, media and teaching aids.
LncRNA H19 contributes to Rh2-mediated MC3T3-E1cell proliferation by regulation of osteopontin
Authors: Dong B. , Pang T.-T.
Published: September 2017

20(R)-ginsenoside Rh2 (Rh2) is one of the most active components of red ginseng, possessing the beneficial effects in cancer prevention and metabolic diseases. However, the detailed mechanisms that contribute to Rh2-mediated bone formation remain largely unknown. In this study, we assessed the expression of 17 long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cultured MC3T3-E1 cells under Rh2 treatments. We found that lncRNA H19 was significantly increased in Rh2-treated MC3T3-E1 cells. Expression of lncRNA H19 was promoted in a dose- and time-dependent manner after Rh2 treatments. Increased expression of lncRNA H19 resulted in osteopontin (OPN) overexpression in Rh2-treated MC3T3-E1 cells. Furthermore, knockdown of lncRNA H19 by specific siRNAs significantly abolished the Rh2-mediated cell proliferation effects. Knockdown of lncRNA H19 also decreased both mRNA and protein levels of OPN in the Rh2-treated cells, which was accomplished by inhibiting histones H3 and H4 acetylation of OPN promoter. Importantly, OPN knockdown fully blocked Rh2 induced MC3T3-E1 cell proliferation. Our results suggest that lncRNA H19 is an important contributor to Rh2-mediated MC3T3-E1 proliferation by regulation of OPN.
The protective effect of cinnamaldehyde on lipopolysaccharide induced acute lung injury in mice
Authors: Huang H. , Wang Y.
Published: September 2017

The study wasintended to examinethe protective effect of cinnamaldehyde (CM) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) mice model.The results of the investigation confirmed that, LPS induced inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-Î±, IL-6, IL-13 and IL-1Î² were significantly decreased by CM. CM also up-regulated level of IL-10. We found that CM significantly attenuated LPS-induced TLR4 expression, NF-ÎºB activation and MPO activity in the lung tissues. It markedly reduced lung wet/dry ratio, and improved typical and severe pathological changes including pulmonary edema in the LPS induced ALI mice. Moreover, CM significantly inhibited neutrophils, macrophages and total cell number in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). In our study, we noted that TLR4–NF-ÎºB signaling pathway was involved in acute lung injury.The results revealed the protective effects of CM in LPS-induced ALI, through suppressionTLR4–NF-ÎºB signaling pathway. Our finding suggests that Cinnamaldehyde is a potential anti-inflammatory agent in treatment the acute lung injury.
Is GDF5 gene promoter polymorphism +104T/C associated with osteoarthritis in the Eastern of Turkey population?
Authors: Tülüce Y. , Yildirim ć°. H. , í–zkol H. , EdiÌ‡z L. , Delen V.
Published: September 2017

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. Genetic factors have been shown to play important roles in the etiology of OA. The gene growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF5) has been implicated in skeletal development and joint morphogenesis in human and mice. A functional single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) +104T/C in the 5'-UTR of GDF5 (rs143383) was reported to be associated with osteoarthritis susceptibility in Han Chinese and Japanese populations. Our objective was to assess whether this SNP was also associated with OA in the Eastern Turkey population.A total of 172 cases including 95 patients with idiopathic OA and 77 control cases were recruited into the study. DNA samples were extracted from peripheral blood lymphocytes of all cases by using salting out method. The +104T/C polymorphism was genotyped by PCR-RFLP method. In terms of genotype comparison there wasn't any correlation between patient and control groups. Frequency of C allele was found to be higher in-patient group than control group and statistical analysis showed a poor correlation in allele frequencies of the +104T/C SNP of GDF5 gene between cases and controls (p<0.05). Significant correlation between GDF5 and OA has been reported in Asian population, especially T alleles were found in higher frequencies and related to OA.  Our study did not confirm this association and also in term of T allele. Interestingly, we found higher frequency of C allele in patient group than control group and our results are compatible with the study carried out in Greek population.
Potential of Laurencia obtusa as a substrate for the development of a probiotic Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Caf F. , Yilmaz í–. , Åžen í–zdemir N.
Published: September 2017

Laurencia obtusa (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta) has tremendous nutritional value, being high in proteins, oligosaccharides, vitamins, essential minerals, and fatty acids, and it is a rich source of amino acids and trace elements. In this study, L. obtusa was extracted and subjected to phenolic, sugar and flavonoid analyses.The fatty acid, vitamin and phytosterol contents in Saccharomyces cerevisiae were evaluated when it was incubated with L. obtusa dry biomass. The fatty acids in the lipid extract were analysed after converting them into methyl esters using gas chromatography, and vitamin concentrations were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). According to the achieved results, the total fatty acid levels and vitamin contents of the S. cerevisiae prepared with algal extract increased at different rates. Our results showed that Î±-tocopherol decreased in the group in which the S. cerevisiae was added the algal extract. When compared to the control group, ergesterol increased in the group in which L. obtusa extract was added. Additionally, when compared to the control group in which L. obtusa extract was added, stearic acid (18:0), oleic acid (18:1) and linoleic acid (18:2) increased in the other groups. Palmitoleic acid (16:1) increased in the L. obtusa culture medium, but palmitic acid decreased in the L. obtusa culture medium. In conclusion, it was determined that the L. obtusa extract added to the development medium of S. cerevisiae caused differences in the synthesis of some vitamins and fatty acids.
Pleckstrin homology-like domain family B member 1 rs498872 polymorphism and glioma risk in Chinese Han population
Authors: Zhang J-W. , Liu Z-H. , Lin X-H. , Du Y-P. , Guo H-T.
Published: September 2017

This case-control study aimed to investigate the association between PHLDB1 rs498872 polymorphism and the risk of glioma in a Chinese Han population. A total of 210 patients and 235 controls were enrolled in this study. The CT genotype and TT genotype were significantly associated with the risk of glioma (OR=1.48, 95%CI 1.00-2.19, P=0.05 and OR=2.40, 95%CI 1.06-4.10, P=0.03), respectively. In addition, T allele of PHLDB1 rs498872 polymorphism was significantly associated with an increased risk of glioma (OR=1.58, 95%CI 1.08-2.29, P=0.02). We also found that PHLDB1 rs498872 polymorphism was not associated with histology and tumor grade of glioma. In conclusion, this study found that PHLDB1 rs498872 polymorphism was significantly associated with glioma risk in Chinese Han population.
Carnosol inhibits Hedgehog signaling pathway in both LNCaP and DU145 prostate cancer cell lines
Authors: Gao H. , Song Q. , Yang J. , Yu S. , Zhao J. , Yu G.
Published: September 2017

To investigate the effect of carnosol on the Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway in human hormone-dependent prostate cancer cell line LNCaP and hormone-independent prostate cancer cell line DU145. The expression levels of glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (Gli1) and Sonic hedgehog (Shh) in human prostate cancer tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry. After treated with carnosol (0.25-16 Î¼mol/L), the cell survival of LNCaP and DU145 cells were detected by MTT assay. The expression levels of Gli1 and Shh mRNA and protein in the two cells were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. The apoptosis was determined by the caspase-3 activity assay. Results showed that Shh and Gli1 were upregulated in cancer tissues. The inhibitory effect of carnosol on cell survival was enhanced with concentration, suggesting both LNCaP and DU145 cells were sensitive to carnosol. The inhibitory effects of carnosol on Gli1 and Shh mRNAs in the hormone-dependent LNCaP prostate cancer cell was stronger than that in the hormone-independent DU145 prostate cancer cells. Carnosol downregulated the expression of Gli1 in nucleus, and Shh in cells. Greater carnosol concentration resulted in lower levels of Gli1 and Shh. Carnosol increased caspase-3 activity in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting that carnosol promotes cell apoptosis. Thus, carnosol can inhibit the proliferation and induce the apoptosis of prostate cancer cells in vitro, and its mechanism might be associated with the inhibiting of HH signaling pathway. Although the inhibitory effect of carnosol on hormone-dependent LNCaP prostate cancer cells is stronger than hormone-independent DU145 prostate cancer cells, carnosol might be a potential drug for hormone-independent prostate cancer.
Nullification of aspirin induced gastrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity by prior administration of wheat germ oil in Mus musculus: histopathological, ultrastructural and molecular studies
Authors: Mohamed H. R. H. , Hamad S. R.
Published: September 2017

Aspirin (salicylic acetyl acid) is used worldwide to treat various inflammatory conditions and prevent cardiovascular disease, along with reducing the risk of cancer. However, administration of aspirin causes toxic effects, especially in the stomach and liver. Thus, our study examined the protective effect of wheat germ oil on aspirin-induced toxicity in the stomach and liver tissues of albino white mice. Administration of wheat germ oil before aspirin has restored normal hepatic and gastric tissue architecture and DNA integrity has become better than that of a negative health control group compared with the aspirin only treated group. The elevated gastric nitric oxide content in the aspirin only treated group was significantly decreased by wheat germ oil prior administration as a result of reducedthe expression of inducible nitric synthase and increased the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase compared to their expression in the aspirin administered group. Wheat germ oil pre-administration significantly reduced the level of malondialdehyde, increased the level of glutathione and decreased catalase and superoxide dismutase activities compared with those in aspirin only treated group. We conclude that wheat germ oil has a potential protective effect against aspirin induced gastro- and hepato-toxicity because of its free radical scavenging ability.
Contribution of polymorphisms in the LEP, LEPR and RETN genes on serum leptin and resistin levels in young adults from Mexico
Authors: López-Quintero A. , Garcí­a-Zapién A. G. , Flores-Martí­nez S. E. , Dí­az-Burke Y. , González-Sandoval C. E. , Lopez-Roa R. I. , Medina-Dí­az E. , Muñoz-Almaguer M. L. , Sánchez-Corona J.
Published: September 2017

Polymorphisms in the LEP (G–2548A and A19G), LEPR (A326G, A668G and G3057A) and RETN (C–420G and G+62A) genes were documented according to their association with alterations in biochemical parameters such as glucose, insulin and lipid profiles, along with serum leptin and resistin concentrations. The aim of the study was to establish any contribution of the G-2548A and A19G polymorphisms of the LEP gene, the A326G, A668G and G3057A polymorphisms of the LEPR gene, and the C-420G and G+62A polymorphisms of the RETN gene to serum leptin and resistin levels in Mexican young adults. Clinical and biochemical variables, serum leptin and resistin levels, and genotype profiles were analysed in 66 Mexican young adults. Seven polymorphisms in the LEP, LEPR and RETN genes were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphisms analysis. Individuals carrying allele 3057A of the G3057A polymorphism in the LEPR gene showed significantly higher leptin concentrations than those bearing the genotype G/G (43.78 ± 39.11 vs 28.20 ± 14.12 ng/mL; p = 0.021). There were no associations of serum leptin or resistin levels according to the genotype of the other six analysed polymorphisms. Our results suggest that the allele 3057A of the LEPR G3057A polymorphism contributes to increased serum leptin levels in Mexican young adults.