bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial and glycolytic remodeling during nascent neural differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Lees Jarmon G. , Gardner David K. , Harvey Alexandra J.
Published: September 2018

As human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) exit pluripotency, they reportedly switch from glycolytic energy production to primarily mitochondrial metabolism. Here, we show that upon ectoderm differentiation to neural precursor cells (NPCs), hPSCs increase glycolytic rate, ultimately producing more carbon as lactate than is consumed as glucose. However, glucose, lactate and pyruvate utilization decrease to half their PSC levels by the NPC stage, establishing a more quiescent metabolic state. Furthermore, we characterize a metabolic exit event within the first 24 h of differentiation, plausibly necessary to transition hPSCs out of the pluripotent state. Contrary to current thinking, mitochondrial mass does not increase during NPC induction. Instead, mitochondrial DNA copies and mitochondrial activity decrease, suggesting that mitochondrial metabolism either requires suppression, or is not required, for nascent ectoderm differentiation. Our work, therefore, contrasts with the dogma that the hPSC state is primarily glycolytic, transitioning to an oxidative metabolism upon the loss of the pluripotent state. Instead, we show that heightened glycolytic metabolism is acquired, indicating that metabolic modulation of both glycolysis and mitochondrial metabolism occurs during exit from pluripotency in hPSCs.
Cooperation of loss of NKX3.1 and inflammation in prostate cancer initiation
Authors: Le Magnen Clémentine , Virk Renu K. , Dutta Aditya , Kim Jaime Yeji , Panja Sukanya , Lopez-Bujanda Zoila A. , Califano Andrea , Drake Charles G. , Mitrofanova Antonina , Abate-Shen Cory
Published: September 2018

Although it is known that inflammation plays a critical role in prostate tumorigenesis, the underlying processes are not well understood. Based on analysis of genetically engineered mouse models combined with correlative analysis of expression profiling data from human prostate tumors, we demonstrate a reciprocal relationship between inflammation and the status of the NKX3.1 homeobox gene associated with prostate cancer initiation. We find that cancer initiation in aged Nkx3.1 mutant mice correlates with enrichment of specific immune populations and increased expression of immunoregulatory genes. Furthermore, expression of these immunoregulatory genes is similarly increased in human prostate tumors having low levels of NKX3.1 expression. We further show that induction of prostatitis in Nkx3.1 mutant mice accelerates prostate cancer initiation, which is coincident with aberrant cellular plasticity and differentiation. Correspondingly, human prostate tumors having low levels of NKX3.1 have de-regulated expression of genes associated with these cellular processes. We propose that loss of function of NKX3.1 accelerates inflammation-driven prostate cancer initiation potentially via aberrant cellular plasticity and impairment of cellular differentiation.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
The potential for the anterior lateral line to function for sound localization in toadfish (Opsanus tau)
Authors: Cardinal Emily A. , Radford Craig A. , Mensinger Allen F.
Published: September 2018

Male oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau) acoustically attract females to nesting sites using a boatwhistle call. The rapid speed of sound underwater combined with the close proximity of the otolithic organs makes inner ear interaural time differences an unlikely mechanism to localize sound. To determine the role that the mechanosensory lateral line may play in sound localization, microwire electrodes were bilaterally implanted into the anterior lateral line nerve to record neural responses to vibrational stimuli. Highest spike rates and strongest phase-locking occurred at distances close to the fish and decreased as the stimulus was moved further from the fish. Bilateral anterior lateral line neuromasts displayed differential directional sensitivity to incoming vibrational stimuli, which suggests the potential for the lateral line to be used for sound localization in the near field. The present study also demonstrates that the spatially separated neuromasts of the toadfish may provide sufficient time delays between sensory organs for determining sound localization cues. Multimodal sensory input processing through both the inner ear (far field) and lateral line (near field) may allow for effective sound localization in fish.
Biomechanical effects of augmented ankle power output during human walking
Authors: Fickey Sarah N. , Browne Michael G. , Franz Jason R.
Published: September 2018

The plantarflexor muscles are critical for forward propulsion and leg swing initiation during the push-off phase of walking, serving to modulate step length and walking speed. However, reduced ankle power output is common in aging and gait pathology and is considered a root biomechanical cause of compensatory increases in hip power generation and increased metabolic energy cost. There is a critical need for mechanistic insight into the precise influence of ankle power output on patterns of mechanical power generation at the individual joint and limb levels during walking. We also posit that rehabilitative approaches to improve locomotor patterns should consider more direct means to elicit favorable changes in ankle power output. Thus, here we used real-time inverse dynamics in a visual biofeedback paradigm to test young adults’ ability to modulate ankle power output during preferred speed treadmill walking, and the effects thereof on gait kinematics and kinetics. Subjects successfully modulated peak ankle power in response to biofeedback targets designed to elicit up to ±20% of normal walking values. Increasing ankle power output alleviated mechanical power demands at the hip and propagated to increased trailing limb positive work, propulsive ground reaction forces, and step lengths. Decreasing ankle power had the opposite effects. We conclude that ankle power generation systematically influences workload placed on more proximal leg muscles, trailing leg mechanical output, step length. Our findings also provide a promising benchmark for the application of biofeedback to restore ankle power in individuals with deficits thereof due to aging and gait pathology.
Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) sternal and shoulder girdle mobility increase stride length during high walks
Authors: Baier David B. , Garrity Brigid M. , Moritz Sabine , Carney Ryan M.
Published: September 2018

Crocodilians have played a significant role in evolutionary studies of archosaurs. Given that several major shifts in forelimb function occur within Archosauria, forelimb morphologies of living crocodilians are of particular importance in assessing locomotor evolutionary scenarios. A previous X-ray investigation of walking alligators revealed substantial movement of the shoulder girdle, but since the sternal cartilages do not show up in X-ray, the source of the mobility could not be conclusively determined. Scapulocoracoid movement was interpreted to indicate independent sliding of each coracoid at the sternocoracoid joint; however, rotations of the sternum could also produce similar displacement of the scapulocoracoids. Here, we present new data employing marker-based XROMM (X-ray Reconstruction of Moving Morphology), wherein simultaneous biplanar X-ray video and surgically implanted radio-opaque markers permit precise measurement of the vertebral axis, sternum, and coracoid in walking alligators. We found that movements of the sternum and sternocoracoid joint both contribute to shoulder girdle mobility and stride length, and that the sternocoracoid contribution was less than previously estimated. On average, the joint contributions to stride length (measured with reference to a point on the distal radius, thus excluding wrist motion) are as follows: thoracic vertebral rotation 6.2±3.7%, sternal rotation 11.1±2.5%, sternocoracoid joint 10.1±5.2%, glenohumeral joint 40.1±7.8%, and elbow 31.1±4.2%. To our knowledge this is the first evidence of sternal movement relative to the vertebral column (presumably via rib joints) contributing to stride length in tetrapods.
Effects of experimental manipulation of hematocrit on avian flight performance in high and low altitude conditions
Authors: Yap Kang Nian , Dick Morag F. , Guglielmo Christopher G. , Williams Tony D.
Published: September 2018

Despite widely held assumptions that hematocrit (Hct) is a key determinant of aerobic capacity and exercise performance, this relationship has not often been tested rigorously in birds and results to date are mixed. Migration in birds involves high intensity exercise for long durations at various altitudes. Therefore, it provides a good model system to examine the effect of Hct on flight performance and physiological responses of exercise at high altitude. We treated yellow-rumped warblers (Setophaga coronata) with avian erythropoietin (EPO) and anti-EPO to experimentally manipulate Hct and assessed flight performance at low and high altitudes using a hypobaric wind tunnel. We showed that anti-EPO treated birds had lower Hct than vehicle and EPO treated birds post-treatment. Anti-EPO treated birds also had marginally lower exercise performance at low altitude, committing a higher number of strikes (mistakes) in the first 30 min of flight. However, anti-EPO treated birds performed significantly better at high altitude, attaining a higher altitude in a ramped altitude challenge to 3000 m equivalent altitude, and with longer duration of flight at high altitude. Birds exercising at high altitude condition, decreased Hct, increased glucose mobilization, and decreased antioxidant capacity, regardless of treatment. In summary, we provided experimental evidence that the relationship between Hct and exercise performance is dependent on altitude. Future studies should investigate whether free-living birds adaptively modulate their Hct, potentially through a combination of erythropoiesis and plasma volume regulation (i.e. hemodilution), based on the altitude they fly at during migratory flight.
Naphthalimide-Based Fluorescent Dyes: Impact of Extension of π-Conjugation and Introduction of an Electron-Donating Moiety on the Photophysical Properties
Authors: Otsuki Joe , Yamano Minori , Yamano Tae , Sugawa Kosuke
Published: September 2018

Concerning a series of naphthalimide-based fluorescence dyes in which the π-system is extended with oligothiophene units, it has been revealed that the absorption and fluorescence maxima can be tuned over ca. 100 nm and ca. 180 nm range by extending π-conjugation, respectively. The effects of the solvent on the fluorescence quantum yield depend on the conjugation length. For the same series but with an electron-donating moiety (push-pull type dyes), the absorption and fluorescence maxima are less dependent on the conjugation length. The fluorescence quantum yields of the push-pull type dyes are large in toluene (>0.3) but extremely low in DMSO. These results will be a guide for the design of naphthalimide-based sensors and probes.
Elimination of 01/A′–A0 pre-rRNA processing by-product in human cells involves cooperative action of two nuclear exosome-associated nucleases: RRP6 and DIS3
Authors: Kobyłecki Kamil , Drążkowska Karolina , Kuliński Tomasz M. , Dziembowski Andrzej , Tomecki Rafał
Published: September 2018

Pre-rRNA processing generates mature 18S, 5.8S, and 28S/25S rRNAs through multistage removal of surrounding 5′-ETS/3′-ETS and intervening ITS1/ITS2 segments. Endonucleolytic activities release by-products, which need to be eliminated. Here, we investigated the interplay of exosome-associated 3′–5′ exonucleases DIS3 and RRP6 in rRNA processing and by-product elimination in human cells. In agreement with previous reports, we observed accumulation of 5.8S and 18S precursors upon dysfunction of these enzymes. However, none of these phenotypes was so pronounced as previously overlooked accumulation of short RNA species derived from 5′-ETS (01/A′–A0), in cells with nonfunctional DIS3. We demonstrate that removal of 01/A′–A0 is independent of the XRN2 5′–3′ exonucleolytic activity. Instead, it proceeds rapidly after A0 cleavage and occurs exclusively in the 3′–5′ direction in several phases—following initiation by an unknown nuclease, the decay is executed by RRP6 with some contribution of DIS3, whereas the ultimate phase involves predominantly DIS3. Our data shed new light onto the role of human exosome in 5′-ETS removal. Furthermore, although 01/A′–A0 degradation involves the action of two nucleases associated with the exosome ring, similarly to 5.8S 3′-end maturation, it is likely that contrary to the latter process, RRP6 acts prior to or redundantly with DIS3.
gganatogram: An R package for modular visualisation of anatograms and tissues based on ggplot2
Authors: Maag Jesper L.V.
Published: September 2018

Displaying data onto anatomical structures is a convenient technique to quickly observe tissue related information. However, drawing tissues is a complex task that requires both expertise in anatomy and the arts. While web based applications exist for displaying gene expression on anatograms, other non-genetic disciplines lack similar tools. Moreover, web based tools often lack the modularity associated with packages in programming languages, such as R. Here I present gganatogram, an R package used to plot modular species anatograms based on a combination of the graphical grammar of ggplot2 and the publicly available anatograms from the Expression Atlas. This combination allows for quick and easy, modular, and reproducible generation of anatograms. Using only one command and a data frame with tissue name, group, colour, and value, this tool enables the user to visualise specific human and mouse tissues with desired colours, grouped by a variable, or displaying a desired value, such as gene-expression, pharmacokinetics, or bacterial load across selected tissues. I hope that this tool will be useful by the wider community in biological sciences. Community members are welcome to submit additional anatograms, which can be incorporated into the package.

A stable version gganatogram has been deposited toneuroconductor, and a development version can be found ongithub/jespermaag/gganatogram.
Large-scale protein function prediction using heterogeneous ensembles
Authors: Wang Linhua , Law Jeffrey , Kale Shiv D. , Murali T. M. , Pandey Gaurav
Published: September 2018

Heterogeneous ensembles are an effective approach in scenarios where the ideal data type and/or individual predictor are unclear for a given problem. These ensembles have shown promise for protein function prediction (PFP), but their ability to improve PFP at a large scale is unclear. The overall goal of this study is to critically assess this ability of a variety of heterogeneous ensemble methods across a multitude of functional terms, proteins and organisms. Our results show that these methods, especially Stacking using Logistic Regression, indeed produce more accurate predictions for a variety of Gene Ontology terms differing in size and specificity. To enable the application of these methods to other related problems, we have publicly shared the HPC-enabled code underlying this work as LargeGOPred (https://github.com/GauravPandeyLab/LargeGOPred).
Cocriação em saúde: Um levantamento sistemático da literatura
Authors: Cohen Mirian Miranda , Leocádio Chayana , Jorge Marcelino José
Published: September 2018

O objetivo é investigar as características da produção científica do tema Cocriação de Valor em saúde nas bases de dados de periódicos ISI Web of Science, Scopus e através da CAFe (Comunidade Acadêmica Federada) no período de 2012 a 2017. Utilizou-se a técnica de análise bibliométrica. Verificou-se que a evolução das pesquisas científicas do tema Cocriação de Valor em saúde são incipientes e escassas, pincipalmente no Brasil. Este estudo contribui para difundir, socializar e nortear a correlação temática entre cocriação de valor e saúde na literatura acadêmica nacional, colaborando para melhor entendimento de suas nuances, que influenciam em sua importância como tema emergente no contexto acadêmico.
Processo de Escolha de Bancos de Imagens: Aplicação no Marketing Business to Business
Authors: Borges Camila De Moraes Barbosa , Botenho Delane
Published: September 2018

Com a popularização das câmeras digitais e da internet, a indústria da fotografia ampliou suasfronteiras, em termos de volume, variedade e qualidade. Este artigo analisa os atributos consideradoscríticos pelos compradores de produtos de banco de imagens e sua relevância no processo de escolhado produto em ambiente de internet. A pesquisa se dividiu em duas fases: qualitativa e quantitativa.Procedeu-se a análise conjunta a um conjunto de dados de 78 empresas compradoras de imagens. Oatributo mais relevante na escolha do banco de imagens ideal foi a disponibilidade de imagens em altaresolução para o layout do cliente, o que pode implicar em novos argumentos de venda e comunicação.Sugestões para pesquisa futura são discutidas à luz do conhecimento em marketing organizacional.
Redução de Custos em Transportes Rodoviário: o Estudo de Caso de uma Multinacional de Combustíveis Líquidos
Authors: Picanço Eduardo , Oliveira Thyago Trigueiro
Published: September 2018

Os custos com transportes rodoviários hoje no Brasil no setor de distribuição de combustíveis líquidossão cada vez maiores e a redução destes é de extrema importância para as empresas. A valorização dotransporte rodoviário fez com que o país tivesse uma hipertrofia neste setor e que a maior parte doescoamento das produções fosse feito pelo modal rodoviário. A redução de custos na cadeia desuprimentos encontra farto campo para atuação no transporte. Ao estudar o sistema de distribuiçãode uma empresa distribuidora de combustíveis líquidos, busca-se mostrar como um sistema deentregas pode ser eficiente, com baixo custo e com nível de serviço ótimo para os clientes trazendoeconomias de escala para as empresas.
O Uso do Youtube como Ferramenta Comercial: o Caso do Magazine Luiza
Authors: Almeida Thalita Knupp de , Cruz Eduardo Picanço
Published: September 2018

O Magazine Luiza,varejista brasileira do ramo de eletroeletrônicos e móveis, que vêm utilizando o site de vídeos paradivulgar seus produtos. No primeiro momento, será apresentado o marketing, descrevendo conceitosde autores consagrados, verificando suas aplicações no mercado e conhecendo o mix de marketing. Aseguir, analisaremos um dos quatro P’s de marketing, a Promoção. Veremos as principais formas decomunicação entre organização e público-alvo. No item seguinte, é aprofundado o estudo em mídia,focando nos principais meios de comunicação e na forma como eles podem interagir. Em seguida,descreve-se o que é YouTube, como ele foi criado, a questão dos direitos autorais e de que forma elepode ser usado na divulgação das empresas. Por fim, aprofunda-se na empresa Magazine Luiza, suahistória, suas características principais e sua estratégia de marketing, principalmente no que dizrespeito ao uso do YouTube.
Indicadores de Desenvolvimento Sustentável: Estudo comparativo entre Brasil e Suiça
Authors: Santos Márcia França Ribeiro Fernandes dos , Peixoto José Antônio Assunção , Xavier Leydervan De Souza
Published: September 2018

O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar um estudo da estrutura dos indicadores de desenvolvimentosustentável adotada pela Fundação Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatísticas (IBGE) e pelosórgãos suíços que desenvolveram o modelo Monitoring Sustainable Development (MONET) cujaspublicações encontram-se disponíveis da Internet. Para alcançar tal objetivo elabora-se uma revisãobibliográfica sobre o tema e, em seguida, comparam-se os marcos ordenadores e conceituais adotadosem ambas as propostas, avaliando-se os aspectos que apresentam convergências e divergências doponto de vista teórico e metodológico levando-se em consideração as particularidades de cada país.
MARKETING, POLÍTICAS DE CRÉDITO E INADIMPLÊNCIA. VENDER BEM E EVITAR O MAU PAGADOR: UM DESAFIO PERMANENTE
Authors: Kasznar Istvan Karoy
Published: September 2018

O presente artigo mostra que a inadimplência voltou a crescer após a grande crise mundial gerada pela incapacidade de se saldarem as cédulas hipotecárias nos Estados Unidos da América. No Brasil sucedeu o mesmo e isto possui sérias conseqüências sobre o mercado de crédito, a concessão de novos empréstimos, o spread ou margem de retorno bancário, as taxas de juros e as vendas a crédito das empresas. Portanto, existe uma forte e significativa correlação, no caso negativa, entre vendas e elevação do nível de inadimplência. Mostra o autor que existem variáveis macroeconômicas relevantes para explicar a inadimplência, e que elas são as mesmas no Brasil e no exterior. De fato, indicam a inadimplência o desaquecimento econômico ou a perda e queda do PIB; o aumento do desemprego; a diminuição do rendimento médio do trabalhador; e o aumento da carga fiscal, entre outros.
EFICÁCIA E GESTÃO DE TI: CASO NTI/UFPE
Authors: Silva Nadja Medeiros Justino da , Marques Denílson Bezerra
Published: September 2018

Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar como a eficácia dos serviços prestados pelo Núcleo de Tecnologia da Informação (NTI) para a Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), aqui representada pela comunidade acadêmica – usuários institucionais – na visão dos seus diretores, no período de 2000 a 2009, encontra-se aderente ou não à noção de fato administrativo, tema desenvolvido por Alberto Guerreiro Ramos. A pesquisa teve uma perspectiva qualitativa e fez uso de entrevista semiestruturada para extrair os relatos dos diretores do órgão no período especificado. Para atingir este objetivo, foram delimitadas as camadas do sistema administrativo do NTI, estabelecendo, através da articulação desses elementos, se a eficácia concebida por Guerreiro Ramos está aplicada ao ambiente de TI do NTI através dos serviços prestados pelo órgão, assim como o tipo de racionalidade estabelecida nas ações gerenciais do NTI e conseqüentemente, a ética predominante em seu ambiente interno.
First results of absolute measurements of solar flux at the Irkutsk Incoherent Scatter Radar (IISR)
Authors: Сетов Артём , Setov Artem , Глоба Мария , Globa Mariia , Медведев Андрей , Medvedev Andrey , Васильев Роман , Vasilyev Roman , Кушнарев Дмитрий , Kushnarev Dmitriy
Published: September 2018

The Irkutsk Incoherent Scatter Radar (IISR) allows us to carry out passive radio observations of the Sun and other powerful radio sources. We describe a method for absolute measurements of spectral flux density of solar radiation at IISR. The absolute measurements are meant to determine the flux density in physical units [W·m–2·Hz–1]. The IISR antenna is a horn with frequency beam steering, therefore radio sources can be observed at different frequencies. Also there is a polarization filter in the antenna aperture, which passes only single (horizontal) polarization. To acquire flux density absolute values, the IISR receiver is calibrated by the Cygnus-A radiation. Since the Sun’s position in the IISR antenna pattern is determined by a frequency differing from the Cygnus-A observation frequency, we perform an additional calibration of the frequency response in the 154–162 MHz operation frequency range, using the background sky noise. The solar disk size is comparable with the main beam width in the north—south direction, hence the need to take into account the shape of the brightness distribution in the operation frequency range. The average flux density of the quiet-Sun radiation was ~5 sfu (solar flux units, 10–22 W·m–2·Hz–1) at the 161 MHz frequency.
Book Reviews
Authors: Shen Wenjing
Published: September 2018

In Book Reviews, we review an extensive and diverse range of books. They cover theory and applications in operations research, statistics, management science, econometrics, mathematics, computers, and information systems. In addition, we include books in other fields that emphasize technical applications. The editor will be pleased to receive an email from those willing to review a book, with an indication of specific areas of interest. If you are aware of a specific book that you would like to review, or that you think should be reviewed, please contact the editor. The following books are reviewed in this issue of Interfaces, 48(4), July–August: Global Production: Firms, Contracts, and Trade Structure, Pol Antràs; Non-Convex Multi-Objective Optimization, Panos M. Pardalos, Antanas Žilinskas, and Julius Žilinskas.
Management of Major Obstetric Haemorrhage using ROTEM Point-of-Care Haemostasis Analysers Can Reduce Blood Product usage Without Increasing Fibrinogen Replacement Therapy
Authors: O. Ondondo Beatrice
Published: September 2018

Major obstetric haemorrhage (MOH) is a leading cause of maternal death and morbidity, with the majority of deaths occurring within four hours of delivery. Therefore, prompt identification of women at risk of MOH is crucial for the rapid assessment and management of blood loss to urgently restore haemodynamic stability. Furthermore, as the rate of blood loss during MOH can increase rapidly in the time when laboratory results are awaited, the management of MOH could benefit from point-of-care coagulation testing by the ROTEM analyser which has a quicker turnaround time compared to standard laboratory coagulation tests. A number of studies indicate that ROTEM-based management of MOH has resulted in a significant reduction in massive transfusions and decreased transfusion of concentrated red cells (CRC) and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) due to a reduction in total blood loss. Several reports which have linked MOH to the depletion of fibrinogen reserves indicate that the reduction in CRC and FFP transfusions is largely due to an increase in early fibrinogen replacement therapy which corrects hypofibrinogenemia. This short report discusses preliminary findings on the impact of ROTEM point-of-care haemostasis analyser on the transfusion of various blood products to obstetric women experiencing MOH at the Royal Gwent Hospital in South wales. The number of blood products transfused following decisions based on the ROTEM analyser measurements (ROTEM group) was compared to historical transfusion data before the ROTEM analyser became available (Pre-ROTEM group). Blood product transfusion in the Pre-ROTEM group was guided by measurements of standard laboratory coagulation tests in conjunction with the established major haemorrhage protocols at the time. The findings indicate that the ROTEM analyser was effective in managing MOH at point-of-care and led to a reduction in the transfusion of CRC, FFP and platelets. However, contrary to published studies, the reduction in blood product usage was not accompanied by an increase in fibrinogen replacement transfusion therapy, suggesting that the ROTEM’s FIBTEM assay accurately quantified fibrinogen levels based on fibrin-clot firmness to enable an early diagnosis of hypofibrinogenemia. Early establishment of the absence of hypofibrinogenemia helped to prevent unnecessary transfusion of fibrinogen concentrate in this study. These findings support the adoption of routine use of ROTEM analysers at point-of-care on labour wards to manage MOH and reduce fibrinogen replacement therapy. The ease of use and rapidity of ROTEM tests could enable departure from globally directed correction of coagulopathy during MOH to a more focussed and precise target transfusion therapy, which will ultimately reduce blood product wastage (including fibrinogen concentrate) whilst minimising transfusion-associated side effects such as alloimmunisation, circulatory overload and dilutional coagulopathy.
In-vitro and in-vivo Antioxidant Activity of the Butanolic Extract from the Stem of Ephedra alte
Authors: Al-Trad Bahaa , A Al –Qudah Mahmoud , Al Zoubi Mazhar , Al-Masri Alaa , Muhaidat Riyadh , qar Janti , Alomari Ghada , I. Alrabadi Nizar
Published: September 2018

Previous studies indicated that the extracts from different Ephedra species have antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant activities. However, none of the published report described the phytochemical components and the antioxidant capacities of Ephedra alte belonging to the family Ephedraceae. To evaluate the in-vitro and in-vivo antioxidant activities of the butanolic extract from stems of Ephedra alte from northern Jordan. Graded concentrations of butanolic extracts from stems of E. alte plant were subjected to four different in-vitro antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS, ferrous ion chelating and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities). The in-vivo effects of two different doses of the extract (200 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg, orally for 12 days) on the activities of serum and liver superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were measured in mice. Strong in-vitro antioxidant activities in a concentration-dependent manner were recorded. As well, significant increases in both liver and serum CAT enzyme activity and in serum SOD activity were observed in mice treated for 12 days with the extract. These results suggested that the butanolic extract from stems of exhibited significant in-vitro and in-vivo antioxidant activities, supporting the use of E. alte as an important source of natural antioxidants.
Evaluation of Gastroprotective Effect of Vanadyl Sulfate and Lycopene on rat model with Ethanol-Induced Gastric Mucosal Lesions
Authors: Abdul-Majeed Al-Razzuqi Rafi , Rahma Abu-Rageef Ahmad , Sami Mehasin Wesal , Rafi Abdul-Majeed Al-Razzuqi Thulfaqar
Published: September 2018

Gastric ulcers result from an imbalance between endogenous defense mechanisms and certain aggressive agents. Many drugs were used to overcome this imbalance, but few literatures made on plants. Therefore, we try to evaluate the gastroprotective efficacy of two nutritional supplements (Vanadyl sulfate and Lycopene) in comparison to Lansoprazole. Five groups of seven healthy albino male rats each were received an oral daily dose of above agents for ten days. Then 1.25 ml of 95% ethanol orally used to induce mucosal injury and animals were sacrificed 1 hour later. Glutathione and malondialdehyde were estimated. A significant elevation in glutathione level found in Vanadyl and Lycopene-received groups in comparison to lansoprazole-received group (717.13±19.47 μmol/gm wet tissue, 609.55±17.6 μmol/gm wet tissue and 512.07±25.32 μmol/gm wet tissue respectively), with a significant reduction in malondialdehyde level (10.63±0.92 nmol/gm wet tissue, 12.66±0.56 nmol/g wet tissue and 14.90±0.33 nmol/gm wet tissue respectively). This revealed gastro-protective effects of Vanadyl and Lycopene in ameliorating the oxidative cellular damage.
Diagnosis and Comprehensive Management of Thyroid Storm in Pregnancy: A Case Report
Authors: Prabawa Aditya , Surya Negara Ketut
Published: September 2018

Thyroid crisis is an emergency in Endocrinology which is characterized by acute hypermetabolic with rapid deterioration which is one of non-obstetric maternal death cause. This condition is rare serious complication, affect about 1-2% of patients with hyperthyroidism. Unrecognized and untreated thyroid storm causing life threatening condition. Management of thyroid storm in pregnancy is aimed to reduce the synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormone and pregnancy management. Explain about optimal diagnostic and treatment strategies of pregnancy with thyroid storm. A 28 years woman admitted to Obstetrics Emergency Room, third pregnancy with 36 weeks 2 weeks gestation was complained of shortness of breath since 3 days ago. History of hyperthyroid since 1 year ago, often palpitate, sweating and tremor. History of consumption PTU 3x100 mg oral but lack of obey. History of hypertension since 27 weeks gestation. Physical examination found that blood pressure was 170/110 mmHg, pulse rate 130 bpm, respiratory rate bpm, 84% oxygen saturation, 38.5°C temperature. Diffuse tiroid gland was palpable with size 1 x 2 cm, ronkhi in whole lung field. Obstetric examination was found breech presentation with FHB: 131 bpm. Laboratory result were TSHs / FT4: 0.24 / 1.72, T4 Total: 104. Thyroid storm diagnostic based on Burch Wartofsky score: 55. Initial treatment performed with oxygen administration, loop diuretics, chest X-ray examination and echocardiography. Followed by PTU therapy, lugolization and corticosteroids. After 48 hours of stabilization, we performed cesarean section and postoperative care at Intensive Care Unit. Thyroid storm is rare pregnancy complication. Diagnostic criteria using Burch and Wartofsky score. Management of thyroid storm in pregnancy includes anti thyroid drugs, lugol solution, corticosteroids and pregnancy management. Diuretic therapy is given due to fluid overload, besides that screening of thyroid hormone profile is important during antenatal care.
The Effect of Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia L.) Leaves Extract on TNF-α Serum Levels and Diabetic Foot Ulcers Improvement : Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nur Rosyid Fahrun , Dharmana Edi , Suwondo Ari , Nugroho HS K. Heri , Sugiarto Sugiarto
Published: September 2018

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is among the many complications of diabetes and it takes a very long period of time to heal. It can lead to the amputation of the lower limb, thereby resulting to death or in most cases, a bad quality of life. The aim and objective of this study is to assess the effect of bitter melon leaves extracts on serum TNF-α levels and improvement of diabetic foot ulcers. The study technique used here is the randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Thirty patients suffering from DFU participated in the trial and according to PEDIS scores were divided into two groups, of which 15 patients were in the treatment group and administered with bitter melon leaves extract at a dose of 6 g/day and the remaining 15 patients were in the control group and were given placebo. This intervention was done for 4 weeks and the examination of serum TNF-α levels was carried out at baseline and at the end of treatment. The readings of the healing process for diabetic foot ulcers with PEDIS scores were also taken at baseline, weeks 2, 3 and 4. Data were analyzed using the paired t-test and the independent t test. After 4 weeks of treatment, there was a decrease in baseline serum TNF-α levels in the treatment and control groups (29.5 ± 8.6 pg/ml, P = 0.0001 and 202.5 ± 610.2 pg/ml, P = 0.001). There was no effect on serum TNF-α levels (P = 0.28). There was a decrease in PEDIS degrees from baseline, week 2, 3 and 4 in the treatment and control groups (2.7±0.5; 2.7±0.5; 2.7±0.6; 1.9±0.6 and 2.6±0.5; 2.6±0.5; 2.5±0.6; 2.2±0.8). However there was no effect on diabetic foot ulcer improvement both groups in week 2 (P = 0.46), week 3 (P = 0.57) and week 4 (P = 0.29). Bitter melon leaves extracts is proven to have no effect on the serum TNF-α levels and improvement of diabetic foot ulcers.
Microbial Pathogens and Heavy Metal Contaminations in the Open Wells Water in Taif Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: A. Qari Huda
Published: September 2018

The objective of the study is to measure the defined water qualities of the well waters from Taif regions, KSA. Quality analysis of is needed to provide necessary data regarding the sources of pollution and pointers for health protection. Physiochemical and microbiological qualities of the samples from 11 distinguished wells were fastidiously evaluated. The observed pH (7.5 to 8.2) of the collected samples are lies underneath counseled standards. Distribution of the 15 chemical elements in the samples were determined. Among all the principle elements of soil ‘cations' are higher in the T2 samples like sodium(Na) (531 mg /l), calcium(Ca) (252 mg/l) and lead(Pb) (0.11 mg/l). Almost all the samples are contaminated with potassium (K) and phosphorus (P). The observed concentration are ranged between (0.259 to 9.23 mg/l) and (0.062 to 0.43 mg/l) respectively. The highest concentration of potassium was observed in T3 and T17. Samples from the wells which is nearby agriculture lands are highly contaminated than the other wells. The pathogenic indicators were detected in many samples in that (T1,T17,T23,) as of fecal contamination. Continuous assessment of water quality on the routine basis is needed to maintain the well water quality as well as to eliminate health issues.
Impact of Fixed Orthodontic Therapy on Salivary Characteristics in Relation to Weight Status
Authors: Ali Alasadi Zaid , Ahmed Qasim Alhan
Published: September 2018

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the early impact of fixed orthodontic therapy on some salivary physical and chemical characteristics of patients in relation to their weight status. The sample consisted of 54 patients (25 males and 29 females; age between 16-18 years old) going under the course of fixed orthodontic treatment. Patients were categorized according to their Body Mass Index (BMI) into 3 weight status groups (underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese), then unstimulated salivary samples were collected from each patient who met specific inclusion and exclusion criteria during three time intervals; before bonding (1st visit), 2 weeks after bonding (2nd visit), and 4 weeks after bonding (3rd visit), then salivary samples are examined to evaluate some salivary physical properties (flow rate, pH) and some chemical properties (salivary calcium concentration, salivary phosphate concentration). A significant increase in salivary flow rate for all weight status categories during the 2ndvisit. A significant decrease in salivary pH for both underweight and overweight groups during 2nd visit with no significant change for normal weight group. A significant decrease in salivary calcium concentration for all weight status groups. And a significant increase in salivary phosphate concentration for all weight status groups. Exposure to fixed orthodontic appliances causes significant changes in salivary physical and chemical characteristics in early stages of treatment. These changes differ among patients with different BMI weight status, but with lesser intensity on normal weight patients than underweight and overweight and obese patients.
Evaluation of Thermal Conductivity and Some Other Properties of Heat Cured Denture Soft Liner Reinforced by Halloysite Nanotubes
Authors: Yaseen Hasan Wedyan , Moudhaffar Ali Mohammed
Published: September 2018

This study aimed to assess the effect of halloysite nanotubes(HNTS) addition into soft denture lining material on thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity, shear bond strength, tear strength, and surface roughness of the lining material. HNTS with 0.75% and 1% concentration by weight (according to the pilot study) were added into acrylic-based heat cured soft denture liner. One hundred and twenty different specimens were prepared and divided into four groups according to the test to be performed. The thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of the soft liner/ HNTS composite were evaluated, shear bond strength, tear strength, and surface roughness were also measured, the results showed that there was a highly significant increase in thermal conductivity of the experimental specimens in comparison with the control specimens and a non-significant change in the thermal diffusivity of the experimental specimens. The shear bond strength between the soft liner and the acrylic denture base and tear strength showed a highly significant increase, but a non- significant difference in the surface roughness test was observed in all experimental specimens. Thus it can be concluded that the addition of HNTS can provide soft liner material with improved thermal conductivity, shear bond strength and tear strength while thermal diffusivity and surface roughness were non-significantly changed when the concentration of HNTs nanoparticles increased.
Cardioprotective Effect of Ajwa Date Aqueous Extract on Doxorubicin-Induced Toxicity in Rats
Authors: F. Sabbah Meaad , Alshubali Fawzia , A. S. Baothman Othman , A. Zamzami Mazin , Shash Lobna , A. Hassan Ibrahim , T. Abbas Aymn , Kamel Abo-Golayel Mohamed
Published: September 2018

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most potent and widely used chemotherapeutic agents to treat several malignancies. However, the clinical use of DOX is seriously restricted due to its acute and chronic cardiotoxic side effects This study investigated the protective effect of (Ajwa) date aqueous extract (AJDAE) against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Sixty Wister albino male rats (150-200 gms.) were comprised in our study and divided into six equal groups: group I (untreated control), group II, group III, rats were orally received AJDAE (0.75 & 1.5 gm/ kg.bw) respectively, for 4 weeks, rats of groups IV, V and VI were intraperitoneally injected with one dose of doxorubicin (5 mg/kg.bw) at the end of the 4th week of the study to induce cardiotoxicity, rats of groups V & VI were orally received AJDAE (0.75 & 1.5 gm/ kg.bw) respectively. Cardiac enzymes, lipid profile, SOD, GR, GST, GPx, CAT and MDA in rats’ hearts homogenate, urinary 8OHdG as well as DNA integrity and histopathological changes were investigated in all studied rats.Oral administration of AJDAE (0.75 & 1.5 gm/ kg.bw) attenuated the cardiotoxicity of DOX, improved the cardiac enzymes, lipid profile, reduced the urinary 8OHdG and prohibited the depletion of endogenous antioxidants and suppressed lipid peroxidation (MDA). Moreover, AJDAE enhanced DNA integrity. Histological findings showed that AJDAE (0.75 & 1.5 gm/ kg.bw) administration reduced cardiomyocytes alterations, congestion, edema and the intense cellular stress exerted on myocardial fibers as well as restored the cardiomyocytes architecture. Our data showed that AJDAE obviously resulted in protective effects against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in rat’s heart. It can be concluded that Ajwa date offers a considerable protection against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.
Influence of Silver Nanoparticles on the Specific Properties of Acrylic Resin for Ocular Prosthesis
Authors: M. Turki Maha , Abdul-Ameer Faiza M.
Published: September 2018

Scleral acrylic resin is widely used to synthesize ocular prosthesis. However, the properties of this material change over time, thus requiring the prosthesis to be refabricated. Many studies were conducted to improve these properties by reinforcing this material with nanoparticles. This study aims to evaluate the effect of silver nanoparticle powder on the mechanical properties (transverse flexural strength, impact strength, shear bond strength, surface microhardness, and surface roughness) of scleral acrylic resin used for ocular prostheses. Two concentrations were selected from the pilot study and evaluated for their effects on scleral acrylic resin properties. According to the pilot study, 0.01 and 0.02wt% AgNPs powder improved the transverse flexural strength, microhardness, and surface roughness compared with other percentages. The specimens in the main study were divided into (3) main groups, (50) specimens without additives (control group A), (50) experimental specimens (with 0.01wt% AgNPs group B), and (50) experimental specimens (with 0.02 wt% AgNPs group C). Each group was subdivided into (5) equal subgroups depending on the tests used. The data were studied using one way ANOVA and post hoc LSD test. At 0.01 wt% AgNPs addition, the mean values of transverse flexural strength insignificantly increased (p> 0.05), and those of impact strength and shear bond strength significantly increased (p< 0.05) compared with those of the control group. At 0.02 wt% AgNPs addition (group C), the mean value of transverse flexural strength significantly increased (p< 0.05), that of impact strength insignificantly increased (p> 0.05), and that of shear bond strength increased with high significance (p< 0.01) compared with those of the control group. Group C showed insignificant increase in the mean values of transverse flexural strength, impact strength, and shear bond strength (p. 0.05) compared with group B. The scleral acrylic resin added with 0.01 and 0.02 wt% AgNPs showed insignificant increase in microhardness and insignificant decrease in surface roughness. The addition of AgNPs powder in both concentrations improved the mechanical properties of scleral acrylic resin used for ocular prostheses.
EMG Signal Analysis for Diagnosis of Muscular Dystrophy Using Wavelet Transform, SVM and ANN
Authors: Kehri Vikram , R. N. Awale
Published: September 2018

Implementation of Artificial intelligence techniques is used as a medical diagnostic tool to increase the diagnostic accuracy and provide more additional knowledge. Muscular dystrophy is a disorder which diagnosed with Electromyography (EMG) signals. A Wavelet-based decomposition technique is proposed here to classified Healthy EMG signals (Normal) from abnormal muscular dystrophy EMG signals. In this work, a wavelet transform is applied to preprocessed EMG signals for decomposing it into different frequency sub-bands. Statistical analysis is carried out to these decomposed sub-bands to extract different statistical features. SVM and ANN classifier is proposed here to discriminate muscular dystrophy disorder from healthy Electromyography signals. Finally proposed methodology gives classification accuracy of 95% on publically available clinical EMG database. The results show better classification accuracy using an SVM classifier compare to ANN classifier on selected statically feature sets. The finding from the above method gave the best classifier for analysis and classification of EMG signals for recognition of muscular dystrophy disorders.
Awareness of Laser Dentistry Among Dentists in Tanjore- A survey
Authors: K Harini , Arjunkumar Radhika
Published: September 2018

Diode laser are used for soft tissue surgeries in the oral cavity.The use of laser is limited due to the lack of knowledge, effectiveness and the high cost of laser unit. The use of lasers can decrease morbidity after surgery and reduces the need for anaesthetics.the laser is used for caries prevention, bleaching, restorative removal and curing, cavity preparation, dentinal hypersensitivity, growth modulation and for diagnostic purposes, whereas soft tissue application includes incision, excision, ablation, wound healing, removal of hyperplastic tissue to uncovering of impacted or partially erupted tooth, photodynamic therapy for malignancies, photo stimulation of herpetic lesion. Although dental lasers was introduced in 1964, its knowledge and implementation has increased only in past 15-20 years especially in developing countries like India. In order to evaluate the knowledge on laser and its implementationin the field of dentistry among dentists in Tanjore, this survey was conducted among dentists in Tanjore. This cross-sectional, descriptive study was carried out among dentists in Tanjore. A questionnaire consisting of 3 main parts was designed and administered to dentists in Tanjore and knowledge was assessed. The data were entered and analysed statistically. 14% of dentists have adequate knowledge,46% of dentists have moderate knowledge, 39% of dentists have inadequate knowledge.35% of dentists had practiced laser dentistry before.The wellknown information among dentists about the dental laser is the lasers application in gingivectomy and crown lengthening. 50% of dentists felt that cost of laser unit is the biggest deterrant in practicing laser dentistry. Most of the dentists have only moderate knowledge on laser.Education should be given on laser to increase its implementation in field of dentistry.