bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between physical activity and risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Qiu Shanhu , Cai Xue , Sun Zilin , Li Ling , Zügel Martina , Steinacker Jürgen Michael , Schumann Uwe
Published: August 2017

Background:

Increased physical activity (PA) is a key element in the management of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); however, its association with NAFLD risk has not been systematically assessed. This meta-analysis of observational studies was to quantify this association with dose–response analysis.

Methods:

Electronic databases were searched to January 2017 for studies of adults reporting the risk of NAFLD in relation to PA with cohort or case-control designs. Studies that reported sex-specific data were included as separate studies. The overall risk estimates were pooled using a random-effects model, and the dose–response analysis was conducted to shape the quantitative relationship.

Results:

A total of 6 cohort studies from 5 articles with 32,657 incident NAFLD cases from 142,781 participants, and 4 case-control studies from 3 articles with 382 NAFLD cases and 302 controls were included. Compared with the lowest PA level, the highest PA level was associated with a risk reduction of NAFLD in cohort [RR (risk ratio) 0.79, 95% CI (confidence interval) 0.71–0.89] and case-control studies [OR (odds ratio) 0.43, 95% CI 0.27–0.68]. For cohort studies, both highest and moderate PA levels were superior to the light one in lowering NAFLD risk ( pfor interaction = 0.006 and 0.02, respectively), and there was a log-linear dose–response association ( pfor nonlinearity = 0.10) between PA and NAFLD risk [RR 0.82 (95% CI 0.73–0.91) for every 500 metabolic equivalent (MET)-minutes/week increment in PA].

Conclusions:

Increased PA may lead to a reduced risk of NAFLD in a dose-dependent manner, and the current guideline-recommended minimum PA level that approximates to 500 MET-minutes/week is able to moderately reduce the NAFLD risk.
Baseline serum bicarbonate levels independently predict short-term mortality in critically ill patients with ischaemic cardiogenic shock
Authors: Wigger Olivier , Bloechlinger Stefan , Berger David , Häner Jonas , Zanchin Thomas , Windecker Stephan , Räber Lorenz , Schefold Joerg C
Published: August 2017

Background:

Cardiogenic shock is a feared complication of acute myocardial infarction with high mortality rates. Data on the predictive role of acid base dysregulation in this clinical setting are sparse. We therefore embarked on investigating the predictive role of serum bicarbonate in critically ill intensive care unit (ICU) patients with cardiogenic shock.

Methods:

A total of 165 ischaemic cardiogenic shock patients (118 men, aged 68.4 years (interquartile range 59.0–77.4), APACHE II score 26.0 (interquartile range 21.0–29.0), after percutaneous coronary intervention were included in a single-centre analysis. Percutaneous coronary intervention-related data such as left ventricular ejection fraction and laboratory indices were recorded and routine clinical follow-up was obtained at hospital discharge and at one year. All-cause mortality was assessed and data were analysed using univariate and multivariate models.

Results:

All-cause mortality was highest (17%) during the first 48 hours following ICU admission (28-day mortality rate 43%). In a multiple regression model, age (hazard ratio (HR) 1.035, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.011–1.059, P=0.004), APACHE II score (HR 1.036, 95% CI 1.002–1.072, P=0.037) and baseline serum bicarbonate levels (HR 0.93, 95% CI 0.866–0.998, P=0.046) independently predicted 28-day mortality (overall model fit χ222.9, P<0.0001). The HR for patients in the lowest baseline serum bicarbonate tertile for 365-day mortality was HR 2.06 (95% CI 1.20–3.53).

Conclusions:

In a large cohort of consecutive cardiogenic shock patients hospitalised in the ICU, low serum bicarbonate levels at admission independently predicted mortality. Given the widespread availability of blood gas analysers in ICUs, we propose baseline serum bicarbonate levels as an additional biomarker for identification and stratification of cardiogenic shock patients at risk.
Clinical impact and predictors of complete ST segment resolution after primary percutaneous coronary intervention: A subanalysis of the ATLANTIC Trial
Authors: Fabris Enrico , van ’t Hof Arnoud , Hamm Christian W , Lapostolle Frédéric , Lassen Jens F , Goodman Shaun G , ten Berg Jurriën M , Bolognese Leonardo , Cequier Angel , Chettibi Mohamed , Hammett Christopher J , Huber Kurt , Janzon Magnus , Merkely Béla , Storey Robert F , Zeymer Uwe , Cantor Warren J , Tsatsaris Anne , Kerneis Mathieu , Diallo Abdourahmane , Vicaut Eric , Montalescot Gilles
Published: August 2017

Background:

In the ATLANTIC (Administration of Ticagrelor in the catheterization laboratory or in the Ambulance for New ST elevation myocardial Infarction to open the Coronary artery) trial the early use of aspirin, anticoagulation, and ticagrelor coupled with very short medical contact-to-balloon times represent good indicators of optimal treatment of ST-elevation myocardial infarction and an ideal setting to explore which factors may influence coronary reperfusion beyond a well-established pre-hospital system.

Methods:

This study sought to evaluate predictors of complete ST-segment resolution after percutaneous coronary intervention in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients enrolled in the ATLANTIC trial. ST-segment analysis was performed on electrocardiograms recorded at the time of inclusion (pre-hospital electrocardiogram), and one hour after percutaneous coronary intervention (post-percutaneous coronary intervention electrocardiogram) by an independent core laboratory. Complete ST-segment resolution was defined as ≥70% ST-segment resolution.

Results:

Complete ST-segment resolution occurred post-percutaneous coronary intervention in 54.9% ( n=800/1456) of patients and predicted lower 30-day composite major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.19–0.65; p<0.01), definite stent thrombosis (odds ratio 0.18, 95% confidence interval 0.02–0.88; p=0.03), and total mortality (odds ratio 0.43, 95% confidence interval 0.19–0.97; p=0.04). In multivariate analysis, independent negative predictors of complete ST-segment resolution were the time from symptoms to pre-hospital electrocardiogram (odds ratio 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.85–0.98; p<0.01) and diabetes mellitus (odds ratio 0.6, 95% confidence interval 0.44–0.83; p<0.01); pre-hospital ticagrelor treatment showed a favorable trend for complete ST-segment resolution (odds ratio 1.22, 95% confidence interval 0.99–1.51; p=0.06).

Conclusions:

This study confirmed that post-percutaneous coronary intervention complete ST-segment resolution is a valid surrogate marker for cardiovascular clinical outcomes. In the current era of ST-elevation myocardial infarction reperfusion, patients’ delay and diabetes mellitus are independent predictors of poor reperfusion and need specific attention in the future.
Comparative efficacy and discontinuation of dimethyl fumarate and fingolimod in clinical practice at 24-month follow-up
Authors: Hersh Carrie M , Love Thomas E , Bandyopadhyay Anasua , Cohn Samuel , Hara-Cleaver Claire , Bermel Robert A , Fox Robert J , Cohen Jeffrey A , Ontaneda Daniel
Published: August 2017

Background

Dimethyl fumarate and fingolimod are oral disease-modifying therapies approved to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis. Prior observational studies and our previous 12-month investigation showed comparable clinical efficacy.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess real-world efficacy and discontinuation of dimethyl fumarate and fingolimod over 24 months in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Methods

Patients treated with dimethyl fumarate ( n = 395) or fingolimod ( n = 264) completed 24-month follow-up in a large academic multiple sclerosis center. Discontinuation rates and measures of disease activity were compared after propensity score weighting. The primary outcome was on-treatment annualized relapse rate ratio. Other measures included rate of drug discontinuation and brain magnetic resonance imaging activity defined as new T2 and/or gadolinium-enhancing lesions.

Results

Propensity score weighting showed excellent covariate balance. At 24 months, dimethyl fumarate demonstrated comparable annualized relapse rate (rate ratio = 1.45, 95% confidence interval 0.53–3.99) and brain magnetic resonance imaging activity (odds ratio = 1.38, 95% confidence interval 0.83–2.32). Dimethyl fumarate patients discontinued therapy earlier compared to fingolimod (hazard ratio = 1.40, 95% confidence interval 1.11–1.77) and were more likely to discontinue therapy due to intolerability (odds ratio = 1.98, 95% confidence interval 1.18–3.23).

Conclusion

Dimethyl fumarate and fingolimod had similar reductions in annualized relapse rate in clinical trials, and our real-world experience supports this observation. Dimethyl fumarate-treated patients had higher likelihood of early discontinuation, and this was mostly due to intolerability.
Modelling residential land values using geographic and geometric accessibility in Guatemala City
Authors: Morales Jose , Flacke Johannes , Zevenbergen Jaap
Published: August 2017

Location and accessibility are core concepts for land-value research. However, the perspective is still limited in their conceptual and methodological application to cities from the Global South. The objective of this research is to bridge concepts and definitions to comprehensively operationalize accessibility indicators and uncover its relation with residential land-values in Guatemala City. We developed a multivariate regression model using the following access metrics: (1) geographic-access indices that were computed using time-based analyses per transport mode; (2) geometric-access metrics estimated via Space Syntax at various spatial scales; (3) a proposed geometric via geographic-access metric computed as potential access to network centrality. A variable selection process allowed to assess the information contribution of each variable in building a parsimonious model. We assessed the model in the context of model variations that represent common approaches used in existing literature. Geographic access to the core business district has the highest impact on the land-values, followed by proximity to urban areas with high geometric-access, measured as geometric via geographic access. Geometric accessibility at neighbourhood and city-wide scales add spatialized information that contributes to a parsimonious model and reduces spatial dependence. The model yielded the highest goodness of fit and prediction accuracy compared with the model variations. We concluded that Guatemala City land-values follow a predominant monocentric structure. Additionally, potential access to vital urban areas as identified via Space Syntax denotes the presence of economic activities, or potential for such, which were not explicitly addressed through the geographic-access metrics. The results have limitations but pose methodological possibilities relevant for research and practice in similar Latin American cities.
Fevipiprant, an oral prostaglandin DP2receptor (CRTh2) antagonist, in allergic asthma uncontrolled on low-dose inhaled corticosteroids
Authors: Bateman Eric D. , Guerreros Alfredo G. , Brockhaus Florian , Holzhauer Björn , Pethe Abhijit , Kay Richard A. , Townley Robert G.
Published: August 2017

Dose-related efficacy and safety of fevipiprant (QAW039), an oral DP2(CRTh2) receptor antagonist, was assessed in patients with allergic asthma uncontrolled by low-dose inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).

Adult patients were randomised to 12 weeks' treatment with once-daily (1, 3, 10, 30, 50, 75, 150, 300 or 450 mgq.d.) or twice-daily (2, 25, 75 or 150 mgb.i.d.) fevipiprant (n=782), montelukast 10 mgq.d. (n=139) or placebo (n=137). All patients received inhaled budesonide 200 μgb.i.d.

Fevipiprant produced a statistically significant improvement in the primary end-point of change in pre-dose forced expiratory volume in 1 s at week 12 (p=0.0035) with a maximum model-averaged difference to placebo of 0.112 L. The most favourable pairwise comparisons to placebo were for the fevipiprant 150 mgq.d. and 75 mgb.i.d. groups, with no clinically meaningful differences betweenq.d. andb.i.d. Montelukast also demonstrated a significant improvement in this end-point. No impact on other efficacy end-points was observed. Adverse events were generally mild/moderate in severity, and were evenly distributed across doses and treatments.

Fevipiprant appears to be efficacious and well-tolerated in this patient population, with an optimum total daily dose of 150 mg. Further investigations into the clinical role of fevipiprant in suitably designed phase III clinical trials are warranted.
The artists’ materials of P. S. Krøyer: An analytical study of the artist’s paintings and tube colours by Raman, SEM–EDS and HPLC
Authors: Christiansen Marie Bitsch , Baadsgaard Elizabeth , Sanyova Jana , Simonsen Kim Pilkjær
Published: August 2017

An analytical study of two paintings by P. S. Krøyer and the tube colours found in his painting cabinet has been carried out in order to investigate the artists’ materials used by Krøyer in the latter part of his oeuvre. The study has given a valuable knowledge about Krøyer’s choice of materials and their composition that may be helpful in e.g. preservation issues. The pigments and dyes were analysed by micro-Raman spectroscopy (MRS), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC–DAD). The technical analyses were supplemented with archival studies of Danish nineteenth century paint shops. The results show that Krøyer used commercially available artists’ materials typical for that period in time. Being a wealthy artist, he seems to have favoured expensive pigments such as cobalt blue, viridian and cadmium yellow. Based on the analyses, the main development in Krøyer’s palette is the substitution of lead white with zinc white that appears to have taken place after 1886. The results also show that the contents of the tube colours in some cases differ from what was expected based on the trade names. This is particularly observed for the tube colours named “Oxide rouge” of which only one contains the expected hematite pigment, while all the remaining contain cadmium sulfide and natural organic red lakes. A rare tube colour named “Laque verte clair” was characterised to be mixture of Prussian blue and synthetic Indian yellow. The study therefore also illustrates that it was not always obvious to the artists what they bought from their colour merchant. It hence relates to existing international studies of nineteen century artists’ materials, which highlight the complexity of tube colours from this particular period in time.
Eye and heart morphogenesis are dependent on the melatonin signaling in chick embryos
Authors: Nogueira Renato C. , Sampaio Lucia de Fatima S.
Published: August 2017

Calmodulin is vital for chick embryos morphogenesis in the incubation time 48 h to 66 h when the rudimentary C-shaped heart attains an S-shaped pattern and the optic vesicles develops to the optic cups. Melatonin is in the extraembryonic yolk sac of the avian egg. Melatonin binds calmodulin. The aim of this study was to investigate the melatonin functions in the formation of the chick embryo optic cups and S-shaped heart, by pharmacology and immunoassays methods. Mel1a melatonin receptor immunofluorescence was distributed in the optic cups and rudimentary hearts. Embryonated chicken eggs at 48 h of incubation were separated into basal, control, and drug-treated groups. The treatment was applied or not in the egg air sac. Embryos were excised from the 66 h incubation eggs and analyzed. Embryos from the basal, control (distilled water), melatonin and 6-chloromelatonin (melatonin receptors agonist) groups had regular optic cups and an S-shaped heart, while embryos from the calmidazolium (calmodulin inhibitor) group did not. Embryos from the luzindole (melatonin receptors antagonist) and prazosin (Mel1c melatonin receptor antagonist) groups did not have regular optic cups. Embryos from the 4-P-PDOT (Mel1b melatonin receptor antagonist) group did not have an S-shaped heart. Melatonin, 6-chloromelatonin, and forskolin prevented the appearing of the abnormal chick embryos from the calmidazolium, luzindole, prazosin, and 4-P-PDOT groups. However, 6-chloromelatonin and forskolin (adenylate cyclase enhancer) prevented only partially the appearing of embryos with defective eye cups from the calmidazolium group. Results suggested that melatonin modulated the chick embryo morphogenesis via calmodulin and membrane receptors.
Cell polarity, cell adhesion, and spermatogenesis: role of cytoskeletons
Authors: Li Linxi , Gao Ying , Chen Haiqi , Jesus Tito , Tang Elizabeth , Li Nan , Lian Qingquan , Ge Ren-shan , Cheng C. Yan
Published: August 2017

In the rat testis, studies have shown that cell polarity, in particular spermatid polarity, to support spermatogenesis is conferred by the coordinated efforts of the Par-, Crumbs-, and Scribble-based polarity complexes in the seminiferous epithelium. Furthermore, planar cell polarity (PCP) is conferred by PCP proteins such as Van Gogh-like 2 (Vangl2) in the testis. On the other hand, cell junctions at the Sertoli cell–spermatid (steps 8–19) interface are exclusively supported by adhesion protein complexes (for example, α6β1-integrin-laminin-α3,β3,γ3 and nectin-3-afadin) at the actin-rich apical ectoplasmic specialization (ES) since the apical ES is the only anchoring device in step 8–19 spermatids. For cell junctions at the Sertoli cell–cell interface, they are supported by adhesion complexes at the actin-based basal ES (for example, N-cadherin-β-catenin and nectin-2-afadin), tight junction (occludin-ZO-1 and claudin 11-ZO-1), and gap junction (connexin 43-plakophilin-2) and also intermediate filament-based desmosome (for example, desmoglein-2-desmocollin-2). In short, the testis-specific actin-rich anchoring device known as ES is crucial to support spermatid and Sertoli cell adhesion. Accumulating evidence has shown that the Par-, Crumbs-, and Scribble-based polarity complexes and the PCP Vangl2 are working in concert with actin- or microtubule-based cytoskeletons (or both) and these polarity (or PCP) protein complexes exert their effects through changes in the organization of the cytoskeletal elements across the seminiferous epithelium of adult rat testes. As such, there is an intimate relationship between cell polarity, cell adhesion, and cytoskeletal function in the testis. Herein, we critically evaluate these recent findings based on studies on different animal models. We also suggest some crucial future studies to be performed.
RESUMOS DO VIII EDIÇÃO DO SIMPÓSIO IBEROAMERICANO DE PLANTAS MEDICINAIS E DO III SIMPÓSIO IBEROAMERICANO DE INVESTIGAÇÃO EM CÂNCER
Authors: CECHINEL FILHO Valdir , DE CAMPOS-BUZZID Fátima , A. RODRIGUES Clóvis , SAN FELICIANO Arturo
Published: August 2017

Os eventos foram sediados pela Universidade do Vale do Itajaí (UNIVALI)e contou com o apoio e patrocínio do Programa CYTED (Programa Ibero-americano de Ciência e Tecnologia para o Desenvolvimento) por meio da Rede Iberoamericana de Estudos e Aproveitamento Sustentável da Biodiversidade Regional de Interesse Farmacêutico (RIBIOFAR/CYTED/CNPq) e da Rede Iberoamericana de Investigação em Câncer (RIBECANCER/CYTED/CNPq).
In vitro evaluation of cytotoxic, anti-proliferative, anti-oxidant, apoptotic, and anti-microbial activities of Cladonia pocillum
Authors: Ersoz M , Coskun Z. M. , Acikgoz B. , Karalti I. , Cobanoglu G. , Cesal C.
Published: August 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-proliferative, apoptotic, cytotoxic, and anti-oxidant effects of extracts from the lichen Cladonia pocillumon human breast cancer cells (MCF-7), and to characterize the anti-microbial features.  MCF-7 cells were treated with methanolic C. pocillum extract for 24h. The cytotoxicity of the extract was tested with MTT. Moreover, its anti-proliferative effects were examined with immunocytochemical method. Apoptosis and biochemical parameters were detected in MCF-7. The methanol and chloroform extracts of the lichen were tested for anti-microbial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans using the disc diffusion method and calculation of minimal inhibitory concentrations. Although BrdU incorporation was not observed in MCF-7 cells treated with methanol extract at a concentration above 0.2 mg/mL, a significant decrease was observed int he percentage of PCNA immunoreactive cells in groups treated with 0.2, 0.4, 06, and 0.8 mg/mL methanol extracts of C.pocillum (49±6.3, 44±5.2, 23±2.5, 0, respectively) compared to that of control (85±4.5). The percentage of apoptotic cells significantly increased in groups treated with 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mg/mL extracts of the C.pocillum (54±3.5, 76±2.6, 77±1.8, 82±4.2, respectively) compared with that of control group (3.9±1.5).The half-maximal inhibitory concentration of the methanol extract against MCF-7 cells was 0.802 mg/mL .Although the chloroform extract showed more effective anti-microbial activity overall, the methanol extract showed higher anti-fungal activity. Collectively, the results of our study indicate that C.pocillum extracts have strong anti-microbial and apoptotic effects. This lichen therefore shows potential for development as a natural anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and apoptotic agent.
Inflammatory and immune responses to a 3-day period of downhill running in active females
Authors: Jafariyan S. , Monazzami A. , Nikousefat Z. , Nobahar M. , Yari K.
Published: August 2017

Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is accompanied by inflammatory and immune responses. However, due to the repeated bout effect, there will probably be less EIMD. Hence, the purpose was to investigate inflammatory and immune responses over a three-day period of downhill running in active females. Eleven moderately trained healthy females performed three 60-minute bouts of downhill running in -13.5% grade, separated by 24 hours, at a speed eliciting 70–80% of their VO2peak on level grade. Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), range of motion (ROM) and maximum knee isotonic strength (1RM) were measured pre- and two-hour post every bout. Blood variables, including CBC, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), myoglobin (Mb), IL-10, IL-6 and Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) were measured at 1 hour before the first bout and two hours after every bout. Data was analysed by repeated measure ANOVA (P<0.05). Although CK, LDH, Mb, IL-10, IL-6, MCP-1, total leukocyte count, monocytes and neutrophils increased significantly following the first bout, CK, LDH, Mb, IL-10, monocytes and neutrophils were only significantly higher following the third bout compared to the baseline (all P<0.05). Moreover, IL-10 and IL-6 decreased following the second and third bouts compared to the first bout (P<0.05). In comparison with the baseline, lymphocytes decreased after the second bout, DOMS increased following the second and third bouts, 1RM decreased following the first and second bouts (all P<0.05). ROM showed no significant difference. The three-day period of downhill running did not exacerbate EIMD and inflammatory response was partly attenuated.
Synaptosomal and mitochondrial oxidative damage followed by behavioral impairments in streptozotocin induced diabetes mellitus: restoration by Malvastrum tricuspidatum
Authors: Solanki I. , Parihar P. , Shetty R. , Parihar M. S.
Published: August 2017

Synaptosomal and mitochondrial impairments in the brain of diabetic individual manifest metabolic risk factors that most likely affect the brain functions. Diabetes is associated with the structural and functional alterations of the brain and neuronal loss leading to cognitive and other behavioral impairments, thus reducing the quality of life. The biochemical mechanisms underlying the diabetes-associated behavioral decline are poorly understood. In the present study, we examined the effects of hyperglycemia on the oxidative stress and behavioral functions in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. Our results showed the increase in oxidative stress in synaptosomes and brain mitochondria marked by an increase in lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl content and decline in reduced glutathione in mice treated with streptozotocin. The oxidative damage in synaptosomes and brain mitochondria further caused impairment in locomotor and memory behavioral functions. Furthermore, we examined the protective effects of plant extract derived from Malvastrum tricuspidatum against STZ induced oxidative stress and behavioural impairments. For the first time we showed that this plant extract attenuate synaptosomal and mitochondrial oxidative stress and behavioral impairments in mice treated with streptozotocin. We suggest that streptozotocin caused impairments in synaptosomes and brain mitochondria and altered behavioral functions via increase in the oxidative stress and decrease in the antioxidant defense system. These impairments in synaptosomes and brain mitochondria and alterations in behavioral functions are significantly prevented by supplementation of Malvastrum tricuspidatum extract.
Effect of salinity on gene expression, morphological and biochemical characteristics of stevia rebaudiana Bertoni under in vitro conditions
Authors: Fallah F. , Nokhasi F. , Ghaheri M. , Kahrizi D. , Beheshti Ale Agha A. , Ghorbani T. , Kazemi E. , Ansarypour Z.
Published: August 2017

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a famous medicinal plant for its low calorific value compounds which are named steviol glycosides (SGs) and they are 150-300 times sweeter than sugar. Among various SGs, stevioside and rebaudioside A considered to be the main sweetening compounds.  Soil salinity is one of the most essential stress in the world. Salinity affects the survival and yield of crops. In current study the effects of salinity and osmotic stress caused by different concentration of NaCl (0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 mM) on morphological traits, genes expressionand amount of both stevioside and rebaudioside Aunder in vitro conditions has been investigated. The morphological traits such as bud numbers, root numbers, shoot length (after 15 and 30 days) were evaluated. With increasing salinity, the values of all studied morphological traits decreased. To investigation of UGT74G1 and UGT76G1 genes expression that are involved in the synthesis of SGs, RT-PCR was done and there were significant differences between all media. The highest expression of both genes was observed in plantlets grown on MS media (with NaCl-free). Also, the lowest amounts of gene expression of the both genes were seen in MS+ 60 mM NaCl. Based on HPLC results, the highest amount of both stevioside and rebaudioside A were observed in plantlets grown in MS media (with NaCl-free). Finally, it can be concluded that stevia can survive under salt stress, but it has the best performance in the lower salinity.
Hypoxia stimulates neural stem cell proliferation by increasing HIF"‘1Î± expression and activating Wnt/Î²-catenin signaling
Authors: Qi C. , Zhang J. , Chen X. , Wan J. , Wang J. , Zhang P. , Liu Y.
Published: August 2017

Evidence indicates that after brain injury, neurogenesis is enhanced in regions such as hippocampus, striatum, and cortex. To study the role of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF"‘1Î±) and Wnt signaling in cerebral ischemia/hypoxia-induced proliferation of neural stem cells (NSCs), we investigated the proliferation of NSCs, expression of HIF"‘1Î±, and activation of Wnt signaling under conditions of pathologic hypoxia in vitro. NSCs were isolated from 30-day-old Sprague–Dawley rats and subjected to 0.3% oxygen in a microaerophilic incubation system. Cell proliferation was evaluated by measuring the diameter of neurospheres and by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation assays. Real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting were used to detect mRNA and protein levels of HIF-1Î±, Î²-catenin, and cyclin D1 in the NSCs. The results showed that hypoxia increased NSC proliferation and the levels of HIF-1Î±, Î²"‘catenin, and cyclin D1 (p < 0.05). Blockade of the Wnt signaling pathway decreased hypoxia-induced NSC proliferation, whereas activation of this pathway increased hypoxia-induced NSC proliferation (p < 0.05). Knockdown of HIF-1Î± with HIF-1Î± siRNA decreased Î²"‘catenin nuclear translocation and cyclin D1 expression, and inhibited proliferation of NSCs (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that pathologic hypoxia stimulates NSC proliferation by increasing expression of HIF-1Î± and activating the Wnt/Î²-catenin signaling pathway. The data suggest that Wnt/Î²-catenin signaling may play a key role in NSC proliferation under conditions of pathologic hypoxia.
Analysis of critical process parameters of ductile mode grinding of brittle materials
Authors: Faehnle Oliver , Doetz Marius , Dambon Olaf
Published: August 2017

The process of ductile mode grinding has been analyzed experimentally. Besides the traditional approach, controlling the depth of a cut on feed-controlled ultra-precision machines (UPMs), two alternative approaches have been tested. By applying fluid jet polishing (FJP) using a grinding slurry, a stable ductile mode grinding could be set up. Subsequently, loose abrasive grinding processes on load-controlled traditional spindle machines have been tested to be suited for ductile mode grinding identifying the dependence of crack initiation on the type of slurry fluid being applied. In that way, substantially improved levels of surface roughness could be achieved, although local brittle cracking within the generated clear apertures still remained. Furthermore, critical process parameters were identified determining the process window of feed-controlled ductile grinding applied on state-of-the-art UPM machineries. These have been analyzed experimentally, and it was found that the critical depth of a cut significantly depends on the set of critical process parameters being applied. Finally, the critical ductile grinding process parameters could be identified determining the generated level of surface roughness achieving 0.83 nm Ra on tungsten carbide.
Technology Transfer in the EU: Exporting Strategically Important ICT Solutions to Other EU Member States
Authors: Säär Anni , Rull Addi
Published: August 2017

The fast development of ICTs pose new challenges to the European Union and its Member States. Every EU country has its own policies regarding technology transfer, ownership of state e-services, and the possibilities how the state-owned or licensed e-service could be exported. Taking into account the free movement of goods, the EU has created a platform to cooperate and export IT solutions. However, the lack of preparedness of infrastructures, legislation and stakeholders for cross-border exchanges poses a threat to IT transfer and should be taken into consideration in the EU as well. In the coming decades the number of outsourced ICT solutions, strategically important ICT solutions, public services and critically important information exchange platforms developed on behalf of the states, will grow exponentially. Still, digital development is uneven across the EU, they grow at different speeds and the performance is quite splintered. There are legal provisions which are outdated and therefore impede technological cooperation and export of IT solutions. A Member State may restrict the ICT licensing based on national security and policy reasons and the ownership of intellectual property might pose a threat to technology transfer or further development of the IT solution. There are examples of strategically important export of ICT solutions, the experience at which can be expanded to cover other EU Member States. Strong collaboration would enable mutual learning from past experiences along with the opportunities for better use of technology. Parallels can be drawn with military technology transfers, as the policies and legal framework was first developed and mostly used with them.

This introduces a question of what are the conditions for exporting strategically important ICT solutions from one Member State to another, given that there is no common legal framework developed yet, and who should decide whether to transfer or not?
The New EURODAC Regulation: Fingerprints as a Source of Informal Discrimination
Authors: Roots Lehte
Published: August 2017

The EURODAC Regulation establishes the database of the fingerprints of asylum seekers. In 2015, the new EURODAC Regulation came in force and some basic concepts that were not in the previous regulation have been changed. The article analyzes the responses to the new EURODAC Regulation from UNHCR and the Commission and the threats that this new regulation is creating. This article aims to find out whether the changes introduced in the new EURODAC will bring potential discrimination concerns and whether asylum seekers are treated as potential criminals and therefore causing stigmatization of those groups of people in society. The article gives an overview of the EURODAC database, fingerprinting and biometric systems, and comparison of old and new EURODAC regulation. The full assessment of the application of the regulation can be done after it has been in force for some time
Extended device profiles and testing procedures for the approval process of integrated medical devices using the IEEE 11073 communication standard
Authors: Janß Armin , Thorn Johannes , Schmitz Malte , Mildner Alexander , Dell’Anna-Pudlik Jasmin , Leucker Martin , Radermacher Klaus
Published: August 2017

Nowadays, only closed and proprietary integrated operating room systems (IORS) from big manufacturers are available on the market. Hence, the interconnection of components from third-party vendors is only possible with increased time and costs. In the context of the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)-funded project OR.NET (2012–2016), the open integration of medical devices from different manufacturers was addressed. An integrated operating theater based on the open communication standard IEEE 11073 shall give clinical operators the opportunity to choose medical devices independently of the manufacturer. This approach would be advantageous especially for hospital operators and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SME) of medical devices. Actual standards and concepts regarding technical feasibility and the approval process do not cope with the requirements for a modular integration of medical devices in the operating room (OR), based on an open communication standard. Therefore, innovative approval strategies and corresponding certification and test procedures, which cover actual legal and normative standards, have to be developed in order to support the future risk management and the usability engineering process of open integrated medical devices in the OR. The use of standardized device and service profiles and a three-step testing procedure, including conformity, interoperability and integration tests are described in this paper and shall support the manufacturers to integrate their medical devices without disclosing the medical devices’ risk analysis and related confidential expertise or proprietary information.
Pre-Deformation Method for Manufactured Compressor Blade Based on Load Incremental Approach
Authors: Da Kang , Yongliang Wang , Jingjun Zhong , Zihao Liu
Published: August 2017

The blade deformation caused by aerodynamic and centrifugal loads during operating makes blade configurations different from their stationary shape. Based on the load incremental approach, a novel pre-deformation method for cold blade shape is provided in order to compensate blade deformation under running. Effect of nonlinear blade stiffness is considered by updating stiffness matrix in response to the variation of blade configuration when calculating deformations. The pre-deformation procedure is iterated till a converged cold blade shape is obtained. The proposed pre-deformation method is applied to a transonic compressor rotor. Effect of load conditions on blade pre-deformation is also analyzed. The results show that the pre-deformation method is easy to implement with fast convergence speed. Neither the aerodynamic load nor centrifugal load can be neglected in blade pre-deformation.
Moore's Notes on Leibniz Lectures
Authors: Arthur Richard T.W. , Griffin Nicholas
Published: August 2017

G. E. Moore attended Russell’s lectures on Leibniz in 1899 and kept detailed notes which have been preserved among his papers. The present article prints his notes in their entirety with annotations.
Drop Jump: A Technical Model for Scientific Application
Authors: Pedley Jason S. , Lloyd Rhodri S. , Read Paul , Moore Isabel S. , Oliver Jon L.
Published: August 2017

PLYOMETRIC TRAINING HAS NUMEROUS BENEFITS TO ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT. THE DROP JUMP IS A CORNERSTONE EXERCISE FOR DEVELOPING FAST STRETCH-SHORTENING CYCLE FUNCTION. THE DROP JUMP CAN ALSO BE USED AS A READINESS-TO-TRAIN MARKER IN PRACTICAL SETTINGS. TO ASSIST COACHES WITH ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT, A TECHNICAL MODEL FOR THE DROP JUMP IS PROPOSED. VERBAL INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED BY THE COACH HAVE AN EFFECT ON THE KINETICS AND KINEMATICS OF A TASK PERFORMED BY AN ATHLETE. TO ASSIST COACHES IN FOSTERING EFFECTIVE PERFORMANCE ADAPTATIONS. EXAMPLE EXTERNAL CUES AND ANALOGIES ARE PROVIDED TO HELP WITH OPTIMIZING PERFORMANCE DEVELOPMENT WHILE MINIMIZING INJURY RISK.
Evolving deltas: Coevolution with engineered interventions
Authors: Welch A. C. , Nicholls R. J. , Lázár A. N.
Published: August 2017

Deltaic environments are often densely populated with high socio-economic values, and thus are hotspots of climatic, environmental and anthropogenic change. Large scale engineered structures, such as dike systems, have played an important role in shaping both environmental and socio-economic conditions in deltas, with such interventions more likely where there is a high population and a wealthy economy. Engineered interventions interact with the morphological evolution of the delta, reducing or removing sedimentation and accelerating subsidence, increasing the consequences of flooding and necessitating further adaptation. They also encourage further development, reinforcing this feedback. Thus, in these cases, the deltaic landscape and associated livelihoods can be considered to be the result of a coevolution process between natural delta processes and human engineered interventions. This paper explores this hypothesis. It analyses the history of large scale engineering interventions and their implications in five representative, large, populated deltas across the globe (Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna, Yangtze, Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt, Mekong and Nile). The results demonstrate coevolution has occurred and indicate that the response type and the management approach of these engineered structures have significant implications for future delta development. To understand and manage unintended consequences and the development of lock-in trajectories in deltas, a systematic understanding of delta development, including these coevolution processes is essential.
Poetičko-stilska konceptualizacija pjesničke knjige "Zore i vihori" Vesne Parun
Authors: Lemac Tin
Published: August 2017

Ovaj rad nudi poetičko-stilističku interpretaciju pjesničkog prvijenca Vesne Parun "Zore i vihori". Ta je interpretacija svojevrsna nadgradnja i elaboracija početaka Paruničine poetike koji je obilježen određenim karakteristikama od kojih se neke, modifiirane ili nemodifiirane, pojavljuju i kasnije. Književna je kritika iznjedrila neka obilježja mahom se orijentirajući na fenotekstnu razinu ovog važnog rukopisa. To su mediteranski prototekst prisutan isključivo u predmetnotematskom sloju (uglavnom motivski inventar), infantilizam (prisutan u motivskom i stilskom sloju), izvanknjiževna ratna zbilja (leitmotiv), te rascijep subjekta i svijeta. U ovom se radu modeliraju temeljna poetičko-stilska polja sa svojstvenim potpoljima koja nose značenje prve faze Paruničine poetike. Iščitavanjem značenjskih silnica detektiramo ta polja i potpolja i slažemo od višeg do nižeg stupnja općenitosti; metapoetičko polje (legitimacija prirodnog stratuma), polje figure Vremena (pjesma "Seobe" kao paradigma, konotativni prijelazi i poslijeratne asocijacije), autolegitimacijsko polje (postuliranje ženskog subjekta, emotivno relacioniranje prema Drugom, erotsko relacioniranje prema Drugom), utopijsko polje (simbolički pejzaži, simbolički pejzaži s figurom Melankolije, infantilizacijski metadiskurz, pjesme s evokacijom djetinjstva i zlatnog vremena, utopijske slike kao poslijeratne budućnosne projekcije) i distopijsko polje (relacija "priroda – čovjek", distopijske slike, denotativna jezgra i mitski korelativ rata, infantilizacijsko suprotstavljanje ratu, NOB-intertekst). Svaka se navedena kategorija pomno elaborira, navode se naslovi pjesama koji pripadaju svakom ciklusu, te se interpretacijom paradigmatske pjesme navedeni model provjerava. Pristup se zaokružuje zaključcima o fiuri Vremena čiji je smisao utkan u sve razine ovog modela i najvažniji za značenje ove interpretacije.
Veliki tjedan u crkveno-pučkoj baštini širokobriješkog kraja
Authors: Barać Ivana
Published: August 2017

U radu se opisuje razdoblje Velikog tjedna u crkveno-pučkoj baštini Širokog Brijega. Veliki tjedan se smatra čvorištem crkvene i liturgijske godine. Vrijeme Velikog tjedna je ispunjeno trima krepostima, pokorom, postom i molitvom koji su ljudima pomagali u pripravi za nadolazeće vrijeme koje se veže uz muku i smrt Isusa Krista. U radu su navedeni suvremeni izvorni terenski zapisi molitvenih pjesama, običaja i vjerovanja koji su karakteristični za razdoblje od Cvjetne nedjelje do Velike subote. Posebna pozornost je posvećena svetom ili velikom trodnevlju, koje se izdiže bogatstvom pučko-crkvenih običaja. U znak na Isusovu posljednju večeru veže se običaj objedovanja zelja i običaj paljenja vatre na oranicama. Na Veliki petak bilježimo običaj pijenja crnog vina te izgovaranja molitvenih pjesama. Prema vjerovanju, molitvene pjesme koje su se molile na Veliki petak pripravljale su ljude na spasenje i ulazak u raj. Dani Velikog tjedna završavaju uskrsnim bdijenjem koje se događa u večeri Velike subote. Veliki dio navedenih običaja i vjerovanja prisutan je i danas u krajevima Zapadne Hercegovine, što govori o dubokoj religioznosti puka koja svjedoči koliki smisao religioznost pruža suvremenim ljudima.
Radoslav Rotković (1928 – 2013)
Authors: Nikčević Milorad
Published: August 2017

In memoriam.
Dr. sc. Pavao Galić (31. siječnja 1931.- 31. ožujka 2014.)
Authors: Nižić Nedjeljka Balić
Published: August 2017

In memoriam.
Posveta akademiku Anti Stamaću
Authors: Lisac Josip
Published: August 2017

Deseti broj časopisa Croatica et Slavica Iadertina posvećujemo akademiku Anti Stamaću, sveučilišnom profesoru u miru, čuvaru duhovnih vrijednosti hrvatskoga naroda, organizatoru znanstvenoga i književnog života u nas, antologičaru, esejistu, kritičaru, književnom teoretičaru, uredniku, prevoditelju i pjesniku, u povodu 75. obljetnice njegova života. Rođen je 9. listopada 1939. na otoku Molatu pred Zadrom. Dugogodišnji zagrebački sveučilišni profesor, Stamać je povremeno predavao i zadarskim kroatistima, a i inače je izlagao u Zadru i na Sveučilištu i u Matici hrvatskoj, također objavljivao u Zadarskoj smotri. Tijekom duga djelovanja poglavito je radio na čuvanju i unaprjeđivanju institucija hrvatskoga jezika i hrvatske književnosti, na hrvatskoj okrenutosti prema Europi. Sve je to radio kao predsjednik Društva hrvatskih književnika, kao predsjednik Hrvatskoga filološkog društva, kao dužnosnik u Matici hrvatskoj, danas kao tajnik Razreda za književnost HAZU. Uređivao je veći broj časopisa, sve do aktualnoga uređivanja časopisa Republika i do vođenja uredništva edicije Stoljeća hrvatske književnosti. Znamo kako je radio neumorno i kako je njegova ljetina bogata, vjerujemo da će novih plodova biti još.
Društveno-povijesna uvjetovanost uporabe frazema u glagoljskim oporukama sa zapadnih otoka zadarske skupine
Authors: Vigato Ivica
Published: August 2017

U radu se istražuju frazemi pronađeni u glagoljskim oporukama sa zapadnih otoka zadarske skupine iz 17. i 18. stoljeća. Iako frazem kao skup riječi dobiva novo značenje, leksička značenjska sastavnica ne odlazi u nepovrat, već ostaje semantički talog, tj. frazemska pozadinska slika koja motivira frazeološko značenje. Grupirajući frazeme u koncepte, autor želi proniknuti u oporučiteljevo znanje o svijetu i u njegovu konceptualnu strukturu kako bi pokazao kulturno-povijesni aspekt života na sjevernodalmatinskim otocima toga razdoblja.
"Majka Margarita" u prijevodima na ruski jezik
Authors: Božić Rafaela
Published: August 2017

U članku se analiziraju dva prijevoda bugaršćice Majka Margarita, zabilježene u poemi Jurja Barakovića Vila Slovinka, na ruski jezik. Iako oba prijevoda nastoje doslovno prevesti stih bugaršćice koji u ruskom pjesništvu ne postoji, u drugim prijevodnim rješenjima znatno se razlikuju. Kao temeljni nedostatak starijega prijevoda ističe se nedoslijednost u prevođenju paralelizama kao jednog od ključnih elemenata poetike teksta bugaršćice, dok je te elemente noviji prijevod nastojao očuvati.
Problematika ovladavanja jezikom
Authors: Ćoso Zoran
Published: August 2017

U ovome se radu raspravlja o ulozi ljudske komunikacije u suvremenom društvu, kroz prizmu fenomena kao što su materinski jezik, drugi jezik, strani jezik itd. Najveći je naglasak stavljen na razlikovanje termina "drugi jezik" i "strani jezik", s obzirom na nedovoljnu diferenciranost tih termina u teoriji i praksi. Jezik i govor kao osnovni komunikacijski elementi razvoja povijesnih kultura ovdje su prikazani unutar raznih okvira (psihološkog, sociološkog, neurolingvističkog, psiholingvističkog itd.). Kao posebne cjeline vrijedi istaknuti i razne afektivne faktore koji utječu na usvajanje stranoga jezika, a navode se i neke strategije koje se mogu koristiti u učenju stranih jezika.
Hrvatska prozodija u nastavi
Authors: Glušac Maja
Published: August 2017

U radu se propituje obrada hrvatskoga naglasnog sustava u srednjoškolskome obrazovanju. Analiziranjem udžbenika hrvatskoga jezika i anketiranjem srednjoškolskih gimnazijskih profesora i profesora strukovnih škola dobiveni su podatci o načinu obrade naglasnoga sustava u različitim usmjerenjima, o problemima s obradom naglasnoga sustava te o zastupljenosti pojedinih sadržaja u nastavi s osobitim osvrtom na odmake od naglasne norme – koji nisu obvezan nastavni sadržaj. Razlike u pristupu naglasnomu sustavu s obzirom na srednjoškolsko usmjerenje potvrđuju se i anketiranjem bivših učenika gimnazija i strukovnih škola, kao i testovima znanja. Radom se potvrđuje i činjenica kako je zainteresiranost (i profesora i učenika) za učenje i usvajanje toga gradiva vrlo slaba što naposljetku potvrđuje i tvrdnju da standardni naglasak ne konotira prestiž, viši status i jezičnu kompetenciju.
KONGRUENTNA (SROČNA) DVOJINA U SREDNJOVJEKOVNIM ČAKAVSKIM PRAVNIM TEKSTOVIMA
Authors: Kuzmić Boris , Šimudvarac Mario
Published: August 2017

Autori u članku promatraju odnos između množine i dvojine u okviru posebnoga tipa koji određuje poseban tip gramatičkoga broja koji zovemo kongruentnom (lat. congruere ‘podudarati se’) ili sročnom dvojinom. Jezičnu raščlambu provode na korpusu srednjovjekovnih čakavskih pravnih tekstova od 13. do kraja 15. stoljeća. Istraživanje pokazuje da je dvojina uz brojevni kvantifikator dva dominantan gramatički broj u NA imenica m. i sr. roda, zamjenica, pridjeva i glagolskih pridjeva, a u kosim padežima navedenih vrsta riječi dominira množina. U jednostavnih i složenih glagolskih oblika česta su kolebanja. Uz brojevni kvantifikator oba češći su dvojinski oblici i u kosih padeža deklinabilnih riječi.