bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endometrial study by Ultrasonography and its correlation with Histopathology in Abnormal uterine bleeding
Authors: Shrestha Pravin , Shrestha Smita , Mahato Vibha
Published: March 2018

Background: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding is defined as any deviation from a normal menstrual pattern. It is one of the common presentation in extremes of ages. However endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma are commoner in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women warranting investigations like ultrasonography and endometrial biopsy.Aims and Objective: The aim of the study was to note the endometrial thickness by transabdominal ultrasonography and observe the histopathological pattern in women presenting with abnormal Uterine Bleeding.Material and Methods: Premenopausal women more than 45 years of age and the postmenopausal patients, without any pelvic pathology were included in the study. Endometrial thickness was measured by transabdominal sonography and endometrial biopsy was done. Tissue obtained was sent for histopathological examination.Results: A total of 105 patients were studied. Majority (92%) of patients were premenopausal. Proliferative Endometrium (32%) was the most common finding in premenopausal and atrophic endometrium (37.5%) in postmenopausal group. Malignancy was higher in a postmenopausal group (12.5%) as compared to the premenopausal group (2%). Malignancy was not seen when endometrial thickness was less than 11mm in the premenopausal age group. Endometrial hyperplasia was also more common when the thickness was more than 11mm.In postmenopausal group12.5% of patients, had complex hyperplasia.25% had simple hyperplasia and malignancy was seen in 12.5% of patients. When endometrial thickness was less than 5 mm, hyperplasia and malignancy was not seen.Conclusion: Measurement of Endometrial thickness and histopathological workup in patients above 45 years presenting with abnormal uterine bleeding will be helpful in detecting endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.9(2) 2018 31-35
Facial nerve outcome and extent of resection in cystic versus solid vestibular schwannomas in radiosurgery era
Authors: Eser Ocak Pinar , Dogan Ihsan , Ocak Umut , Dinc Cem , Başkaya Mustafa K.
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVE

Cystic vestibular schwannomas (CVSs) are a subgroup of vestibular schwannomas (VSs) that are reported to be associated with unpredictable clinical behavior and unfavorable postoperative outcomes. The authors aimed to review their experience with microsurgical treatment of CVSs in terms of extent of resection and postoperative facial nerve (FN) function and compare these outcomes with those of their solid counterparts.

METHODS

Two hundred-eleven VS patients were treated surgically between 2006 and 2017. Tumors were defined as cystic when preoperative neuroimaging demonstrated cyst formation that was confirmed by intraoperative findings. Solid VS (SVSs) with similar classes were used for comparison. Clinical data of the patients were reviewed retrospectively, including clinical notes and images, as well as operative, pathology, and neuroradiology reports.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients (20 males and 12 females) with a mean age of 52.2 years (range 17–77 years) underwent microsurgical resection of 33 CVSs (mean size 3.6 cm, range 1.5–5 cm). Forty-nine patients (26 males and 23 females) with a mean age of 49.9 years (range 21–75 years) underwent microsurgical resection of 49 SVSs (mean size 3 cm, range 2–4.5 cm). All operations were performed via either a retrosigmoid or a translabyrinthine approach. Gross-total resection was achieved in 30 cases in the CVS group (90.9%) and 37 in the SVS group (75.5%). The main reason for subtotal and near-total resection was adherence of the tumor to the brainstem and/or FN in both groups. None of the patients with subtotal or near-total resection in the CVS group demonstrated symptomatic regrowth of the tumor during the mean follow-up period of 41.6 months (range 18–82 months). The FN was anatomically preserved in all patients in both groups. Good FN outcomes were achieved in 15 of CVS (grade I–II; 45.5%) and 35 of SVS (71.4%) surgeries at discharge. Good and fair FN functions were noted in 22 (grade I–II; 81.5%) and 5 (grade III only; 18.5%) of the CVS patients, respectively, at the 1-year follow-up; none of the patients showed poor FN function.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery of CVSs does not necessarily result in poor outcomes in terms of the extent of resection and FN function. Special care should be exercised to preserve anatomical continuity of the FN during surgery, since long-term FN function outcomes are much more satisfactory than short-term results. High rates of gross-total resection and good FN outcomes in our study may also suggest that microsurgery stands as the treatment of choice in select cases of large CVSs and SVSs in the era of radiosurgery.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the technique of subtotal resection and stereotactic radiosurgery for large vestibular schwannomas: a “nerve-centered” approach
Authors: Starnoni Daniele , Daniel Roy Thomas , Tuleasca Constantin , George Mercy , Levivier Marc , Messerer Mahmoud
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVE

During the last decade, the primary objective for large vestibular schwannoma (VS) management has progressively shifted, from tumor excision to nerve preservation by using a combined microsurgical and radiosurgical approach. The aim of this study was to provide a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available literature regarding the combined strategy of subtotal resection (STR) followed by stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for large VSs.

METHODS

The authors performed a systematic review and meta-analysis in compliance with the PRISMA guidelines for article identification and inclusion using the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Established inclusion criteria were used to screen all identified relevant articles published before September 2017 without backward date limit.

RESULTS

The authors included 9 studies (248 patients). With a weighted mean follow-up of 46 months (range 28–68.8 months), the pooled rate of overall tumor control was 93.9% (95% CI 91.0%–96.8%). Salvage treatment (second STR and/or SRS) was necessary in only 13 (5.24%) of 18 patients who experienced initial treatment failure. According to the House-Brackmann (HB) grading scale, functional facial nerve preservation (HB grade I–II) was achieved in 96.1% of patients (95% CI 93.7%–98.5%). Serviceable hearing after the combined approach was preserved in 59.9% (95% CI 36.5%–83.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

A combined approach of STR followed by SRS was shown to have excellent clinical and functional outcomes while still achieving a tumor control rate comparable to that obtained with a total resection. Longer-term follow-up and larger patient cohorts are necessary to fully evaluate the rate of tumor control achieved with this approach.
Preoperative diffusion tensor imaging–fiber tracking for facial nerve identification in vestibular schwannoma: a systematic review on its evolution and current status with a pooled data analysis of surgical concordance rates
Authors: Savardekar Amey R. , Patra Devi P. , Thakur Jai D. , Narayan Vinayak , Mohammed Nasser , Bollam Papireddy , Nanda Anil
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVE

Total tumor excision with the preservation of neurological function and quality of life is the goal of modern-day vestibular schwannoma (VS) surgery. Postoperative facial nerve (FN) paralysis is a devastating complication of VS surgery. Determining the course of the FN in relation to a VS preoperatively is invaluable to the neurosurgeon and is likely to enhance surgical safety with respect to FN function. Diffusion tensor imaging–fiber tracking (DTI-FT) technology is slowly gaining traction as a viable tool for preoperative FN visualization in patients with VS.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and those studies that preoperatively localized the FN in relation to a VS using the DTI-FT technique and verified those preoperative FN tracking results by using microscopic observation and electrophysiological monitoring during microsurgery were included. A pooled analysis of studies was performed to calculate the surgical concordance rate (accuracy) of DTI-FT technology for FN localization.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies included 234 VS patients (male/female ratio 1:1.4, age range 17–75 years) who had undergone preoperative DTI-FT for FN identification. The mean tumor size among the studies ranged from 29 to 41.3 mm. Preoperative DTI-FT could not visualize the FN tract in 8 patients (3.4%) and its findings could not be verified in 3 patients (1.2%), were verified but discordant in 18 patients (7.6%), and were verified and concordant in 205 patients (87.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative DTI-FT for FN identification is a useful adjunct in the surgical planning for large VSs (> 2.5 cm). A pooled analysis showed that DTI-FT successfully identifies the complete FN course in 96.6% of VSs (226 of 234 cases) and that FN identification by DTI-FT is accurate in 90.6% of cases (205 of 226 cases). Larger studies with DTI-FT–integrated neuronavigation are required to look at the direct benefit offered by this specific technique in preserving postoperative FN function.
Kinetic Studies of the Reactions between Dichlorido(1,2-Diaminoethane)Zinc(II) and Biologically Relevant Nucleophiles in the Presence of Chloride
Authors: Soldatović Tanja , Selimović Enisa
Published: March 2018

The mole-ratio method was used for determining metal–ligand stoichiometry for the reaction between [ZnCl2(en)] (where en = 1,2-diaminoethane or ethylenediamine) and chloride ion at pH 7.2. The results have shown step-wise formation of 1:1 and 1:2 complexes and indicate additional coordination of chloride ions in the first coordination sphere. The kinetics of ligand substitution reactions of the zinc(II) complex and biologically relevant nucleophiles such as inosine-5′-monophosphate (5′-IMP), guanosine-5′-monophosphate (5′-GMP), L-methionine (L-Met), glutathione (GSH) and DL-aspartic acid (DL-Asp) were investigated at pH 7.2 as a function of nucleophile concentration in the presence of 0.010 M NaCl. The reactions were followed under pseudo first-order conditions by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The substitution reactions include two steps of consecutive displacement of chlorido ligands and changes in coordination geometry. In the presence of an excess of chloride, the octahedral complex anion [ZnCl4(en)]2- formed. The first step of the substitution reactions could be interpreted as substitution of the axial chlorido ligands in the cis position to bidentate ethylenediamine by the biologically relevant nucleophiles, while the second step could be interpreted as substitution of the equatorial chlorido ligand. The order of reactivity of the investigated nucleophiles for the first reaction step is 5′-IMP > GSH > L-Met > DL-Asp > 5′-GMP, while for the second reaction step the order of reactivity is GSH > L-Met > 5′-IMP > DL-Asp > 5′-GMP.
Effect of Reactivity on Kinetics and a Mechanistic Investigation of the Reaction between Dimethyl Acetylenedicarboxylate and 1,3-Dicarbonyl Compounds in the Presence of a Catalyst: A Spectrophotometric Approach
Authors: Darijani Mahdieh , Habibi-Khorassani Sayyed Mostafa , Shahraki Mehdi
Published: March 2018

A kinetic and mechanistic investigation, using conventional UV-Vis spectrophotometry, of the reaction between dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate (DMAD) and 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds including acetylacetone (ACAC) and dibenzoylmethane (DBM), has been conducted in a methanol environment with triphenylarsine (TPA) acting as a catalyst. Previously, in a similar reaction, triphenylphosphine (TPP) (instead of TPA) had been employed as a reactant (not a catalyst) for the generation of an ylide (final product). In the present work, of significance is the differential behaviour of TPA which, as a catalyst in the reaction environment, leads to a cyclopropane compound. Of other significance is the different behaviours of the two reactants in the kinetics and mechanism of the reaction. In previous work, TPP acted as a weak nucleophile (a reactant), so the first step of the reaction was recognised as the rate-determining step (RDS). Here, TPA reacts as a stronger nucleophile and a catalyst, resulting in the fourth step of the reaction (step4, k4, a proton transfer process) being recognised as the RDS. The reaction followed second-order kinetics. The proposed mechanism was adapted in accord with the experimental results and the steady-state assumption. The results showed that the reaction rate decreases in the presence of DBM, which participates in the second step (step2), compared to ACAC when it is present as another 1,3-dicarbonyl compound (structural effect). In addition, in previous work, the partial order of the reaction with respect to the 1,3-dicarbonyl compound was zero, while it is one in the present work. As a significant result, not only did a change in the structure of one of the reactants (TPA instead of TPP) create a different product, but also the kinetics and reaction mechanism changed. In addition, the reaction is enthalpy-controlled.
Birth Practices Among the Rural Women: Facts & Reasons
Authors: Rahman Md Mahfuzar , Rahman Md Atiqur , Mehrin Farnaz , Kawser Abu , Tushar Anwar Hossain
Published: March 2018

Background: Pregnancy and childbirth related complications are the leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity in Bangladesh. An estimate shows that about 28,000 mothers die in each year in Bangladesh due to obstetric complications. The aim of this study was to find out the birth practice among rural women in Bangladesh.Material and Methods: This descriptive cross sectional study was carried out among 1220 respondents by purposive sampling technique from 2nd to 4th January, 2017 in different villages of Dhamrai Upazila, Dhaka. Data were collected by a structured questionnaire duly pretested through face to face interview. Data were analyzed manually and by using computer.Results: Then study revealed that majority of the respondents 80% were Muslims by religion and about 26% respondents were found within the age 25-29 years with mean age 31±7.59 years. Most of them 86% were literate and only 14% were found illiterate. Among the respondents 75% were Housewives and 11%, 9%, 1% and 4% were involved in Service, Business, Agriculture and others occupation respectively. Moreover, 78% respondents monthly income were less than TK 3000. About 43% & 16% respondents were found to have 2 & 3 children respectively. In this study, about 73% received antenatal visit and among them 57% received 1 to 3 antenatal visits and 74% received TT immunizations. It was found that 69%, 54% and 59% received antenatal advices on healthy diet, personal hygiene, drug use respectively. Home delivery and Hospital delivery practice were found among 44% & 56% respondents respectively. The reasons for home delivery like Feeling comfortable, Family decision and Financial problem were found in 60%, 26% & 42% respondents respectively. The most common complications during last delivery were obstructed labor, found among 39% respondents.Conclusion: Still now women prefer home delivery. Major reasons for home delivery were Feeling comfortable, Family decisions and Financial problems. Delivery conduction by qualified doctors were found only among 47% women. Efforts needed to increase maternal health related knowledge and awareness towards birth practice to facilitate decision in minimizing complications and mortality.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 9, No. 1: Jan 2018, P 5-9
Awareness on Neonatal Care Among Rural Mothers of Reproductive Age Group Admitted in a Tertiary Level Hospital at Mymensingh
Authors: Huq Sazia , Haque Syed Mohammad Tanjilul , Rahman Md Atiqur , Mahmuda Farzana , Mahjabein Maeda
Published: March 2018

Background: In Bangladesh the neonatal mortality rate is unacceptably high, at 48.4 per 1,000 live births and it is higher in rural areas while the neonatal mortality rate in Asia is 41 per 1,000 live-births, compared to 7 per 1,000 live-births in developed countries.Materials & Methods: This descriptive type of cross sectional study was carried out among 180 rural mothers of reproductive age in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh from October 2013 to January 2014. Data were collected on a pretested questionnaire by face to face interview.Results: The study revealed that 50.6% of the respondents were housewife & education wise 42.2% had primary education with mean age 26.28±5.50 years. 61% respondents knew that cord should be cut by sterile blade and 65% respondents mentioned that cord should be cut immediate after delivery. Among them 44.4% knew about initiation of breast feeding within 1st hour of delivery, 71.1% believed the importance of colostrums feeding. Only 30% of the respondents knew about frequency of breast feeding to the baby should be 8-10 times in a day and 58% had knowledge on exclusive breast feeding. Of the respondents 52.2% went for exclusive breast feeding but others did not. 67% respondents immunized their baby whereas 33% did not. More than half of the respondents (59%) cleaned their breast before feeding and 80.6% respondents washed their hands before handling their newborn. A significant association was found between education and knowledge on immunization of newborn (P=0.000), education and exclusive breast feeding (P=0.003).Conclusion: The current study may boost up the awareness among rural mothers of reproductive age group on neonatal care which will further encourage them to be educated and thus neonatal morbidity & mortality may decline in some extent.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 9, No. 1: Jan 2018, P 50-56
Comparative Study of Intrathecal Low Dose Bupivacaine and Fentanyl Versus Conventional Dose of Hyperbaric Bupivacaine for Cesarean Section
Authors: Hossain Muhammad Sazzad , Islam Md Sirajul , Abbasi Sharmin
Published: March 2018

Background: Pregnancy and childbirth related complications are the leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity in Bangladesh. An estimate shows that about 28,000 mothers die in each year in Bangladesh due to obstetric complications. The aim of this study was to find out the birth practice among rural women in Bangladesh.Material and Methods: This descriptive cross sectional study was carried out among 1220 respondents by purposive sampling technique from July 2016 to June 2017 in different Private Hospital, Dhaka. Data were collected by a structured questionnaire duly pretested through face to face interview. Data were analyzed manually and by using computer.Results: Then study revealed that majority of the respondents 80% were Muslims by religion and about 26% respondents were found within the age 25-29 years with mean age 31±7.59 years. Most of them 86% were literate and only 14% were found illiterate. Among the respondents 75% were Housewives and 11%, 9%, 1% and 4% were involved in Service, Business, Agriculture and others occupation respectively. Moreover, 78% respondents monthly income were less than TK 3000. About 43% & 16% respondents were found to have 2 & 3 children respectively. In this study, about 73% received antenatal visit and among them 57% received 1 to 3 antenatal visits and 74% received TT immunizations. It was found that 69%, 54% and 59% received antenatal advices on healthy diet, personal hygiene, drug use respectively. Home delivery and Hospital delivery practice were found among 44% & 56% respondents respectively. The reasons for home delivery like Feeling comfortable, Family decision and Financial problem were found in 60%, 26% & 42% respondents respectively. The most common complications during last delivery were obstructed labor, found among 39% respondents.Conclusion: Still now women prefer home delivery. Major reasons for home delivery were Feeling comfortable, Family decisions and Financial problems. Delivery conduction by qualified doctors were found only among 47% women. Efforts needed to increase maternal health related knowledge and awareness towards birth practice to facilitate decision in minimizing complications and mortality.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 9, No. 1: Jan 2018, P 57-62
Evaluation of scrotal reconstruction with thigh flap
Authors: Islam Md Tarikul , Dey Palash Kumar , Kamal Abu Hena Mustafa , Uddin Md Farid
Published: March 2018

Background: Scrotal skin can be lost in many ways. Partial loss of scrotum is easy to manage but major scrotal skin loss represents a significant challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. Although many techniques have been established for the treatment of major scrotal defects, each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages in specific situations.Objective: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the outcome of thigh fascio-cutaneous flap for reconstruction of major scrotal loss with exposed testis.Methods: This prospective study was done for 5 years extending from January 2012 to December 2016. In this period we reconstructed major scrotal defects of eight patients with antero medial and pudendal thigh fascio-cutaneous flap in Burn and Plastic Surgery department, Khulna Medical College Hospital. Total eleven thigh fascio-cutaneous flaps were used for reconstruction of major scrotal defects.Results: The mean patient age was 41 years (range 24 to 62 years). The aetiology of scrotal loss was Fournier's gangrene in 4 cases and trauma in 4 cases. Three cases had bilateral and five cases had unilateral flap reconstruction. The flaps allowed sensate coverage and took well. Primary donor site closure obviated the need for skin grafts in most of the cases, Complications were flap tip necrosis (12.50%) and minor wound infection (12.50%) which were treated conservatively. Donor site scar was limited and acceptable. The flap had good aesthetic appearance except in one fatty patient where the flaps were bulky.Conclusion: The study concluded that thigh fascio-cutaneous flap is very reliable for coverage of major scrotal defects.Bang Med J (Khulna) 2017; 50 : 13-17
In the Gardens with Ibrahim: An Evaluation of Fī riyāḍ al-tafsīr by Shaykh Ibrahim Niasse, a Contemporary, Traditional Tafsīr
Authors: Ogunnaike Oludamini
Published: March 2018

The Senegalese Shaykh Ibrahim Niasse (d. 1975) was the founder of the most popular branch of the Ṭarīqa Tijāniyya, the most popular Ṣūfī order in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this paper, I propose to give a brief overview of his recently-published Fī riyāḍ al-Tafsīr, a contemporary work of tafsīr transcribed from Shaykh Ibrahim's annual Ramaḍān tafsīr sessions. The tafsīr is unique for many reasons, not least of which is the fact that it is a transcription of an oral tafsīr performance, raising interesting questions about the relationship of oral performance to textuality and intertextuality, and the relationship between spiritual practice and Qur'anic hermeneutics, and challenging certain received notions about Islam in West Africa, and the place of West Africa in the Islamic world. While this work has previously been discussed in an excellent article by Andrea Brigaglia, this paper builds on and complements Brigaglia's work by conducting a close reading of Shaykh Ibrahim's tafsīr of Q. 6:75–79, the story of Abraham and the setting star, moon, and sun, comparing it with related ideas found in other Ṣūfī texts and with other Sufi tafsirs of the same passage.
A Protocol for Producing Virus-Free Artichoke Genetic Resources for Conservation, Breeding, and Production
Authors: Spanò Roberta , Bottalico Giovanna , Corrado Addolorata , Campanale Antonia , Di Franco Alessandra , Mascia Tiziana
Published: March 2018

The potential of the globe artichoke biodiversity in the Mediterranean area is enormous but at risk of genetic erosion because only a limited number of varieties are vegetatively propagated and grown. In Apulia (southern Italy), the Regional Government launched specific actions to rescue and preserve biodiversity of woody and vegetable crops in the framework of the Rural Development Program. Many globe artichoke ecotypes have remained neglected and unnoticed for a long time and have been progressively eroded by several causes, which include a poor phytosanitary status. Sanitation of such ecotypes from infections of vascular fungi and viruses may be a solution for their ex situ conservation and multiplication in nursery plants in conformity to the current EU Directives 93/61/CEE and 93/62/CEE that enforce nursery productions of virus-free and true-to-type certified stocks. Five Apulian ecotypes, Bianco di Taranto, Francesina, Locale di Mola, Verde di Putignano and Violetto di Putignano, were sanitized from artichoke Italian latent virus (AILV), artichoke latent virus (ArLV) and tomato infectious chlorosis virus (TICV) by meristem-tip culture and in vitro thermotherapy through a limited number of subcultures to reduce the risk of “pastel variants” induction of and loss of earliness. A total of 25 virus-free primary sources were obtained and conserved ex situ in a nursery.
Untreated Natural Graphite as a Graphene Source for High-Performance Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Simón María , Benítez Almudena , Caballero Alvaro , Morales Julián , Vargas Oscar
Published: March 2018

Graphene nanosheets (GNS) are synthesized from untreated natural graphite (NG) for use as electroactive materials in Li-ion batteries (LIBs), which avoids the pollution-generating steps of purifying graphite. Through a modified Hummer method and subsequent thermal exfoliation, graphitic oxide and graphene were synthesized and characterized structurally, morphologically and chemically. Untreated natural graphite samples contain 45–50% carbon by weight; the rest is composed of different elements such as aluminium, calcium, iron, silicon and oxygen, which are present as calcium carbonate and silicates of aluminium and iron. Our results confirm that in the GO and GNS synthesized, calcium is removed due to oxidation, though other impurities are maintained because they are not affected by the synthesis. Despite the remaining mineral phases, the energy storage capacity of GNS electrodes is very promising. In addition, an electrochemical comparison between GNS and NG demonstrated that the specific capacity in GNS is higher during the whole cycling process, 770 mA·g−1 at 100th cycle, which is twice that of graphite.
Recent Advances and Applications of Pulsed Electric Fields (PEF) to Improve Polyphenol Extraction and Color Release during Red Winemaking
Authors: Ricci Arianna , Parpinello Giuseppina , Versari Andrea
Published: March 2018

Pulsed electric fields (PEF) technology is an innovative food processing system and it has been introduced in relatively recent times as a pre-treatment of liquid and semi-solid food. Low cost-equipment and short processing time, coupled to the effectiveness in assisting the extraction of valuable compounds from vegetable tissues, makes PEF a challenging solution for the industrial red winemaking; a tailored PEF-assisted maceration was demonstrated to promote an increase in wine color quality and an improvement in the polyphenolic profile. Despite the application of PEF has been studied and the positive effects in selected wine varieties were demonstrated on batch and pilot-scale systems, there is a need for a more detailed characterization of the impact in different grapes, and for a better understanding of potential undesirable side-effects. This review aims to summarize the state of the art in view of a detailed feasibility study, to promote the introduction of PEF technology in the oenological industry.
Immune Monitoring of Cancer Patients Prior to and During CTLA-4 or PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitor Treatment
Authors: Tunger Antje , Kießler Maximilian , Wehner Rebekka , Temme Achim , Meier Friedegund , Bachmann Michael , Schmitz Marc
Published: March 2018

Targeting the immune checkpoint receptors cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), or programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) represents a very attractive treatment modality for tumor patients. The administration of antibodies against these receptors can promote efficient antitumor effects and can induce objective clinical responses in about 20–40% patients with various tumor types, accompanied by improved survival. Based on their therapeutic efficiency, several antibodies have been approved for the treatment of tumor patients. However, many patients do not respond to checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Therefore, the identification of biomarkers is required to guide patient selection for this treatment modality. Here, we summarize recent studies investigating the PD-L1 expression or mutational load of tumor tissues as well as the frequency and phenotype of immune cells in tumor patients prior to and during CTLA-4 or PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor treatment.
Concurrent and Simultaneous Use of Cannabis and Tobacco and Its Relationship with Academic Achievement amongst University Students
Authors: Hernández-Serrano Olga , Gras Maria , Font-Mayolas Sílvia
Published: March 2018

The combined use of cannabis and tobacco is frequent in Europe. Few studies have nonetheless explored this pattern of consumption and its relationship with academic achievement in Spanish population. The aim of the present study was to analyze (1) the frequency of four patterns of polydrug use the last year (non-dual users of cannabis and tobacco; concurrent users: cannabis and tobacco separately; simultaneous users: tobacco in cannabis “joints”; simultaneous users: tobacco in cannabis joints alongside alcohol) by gender and age; (2) grade point average (GPA) by gender and age; (3) the association between the frequency of the four patterns of use and the GPA amongst a sample of 477 Spanish university students. The use of cannabis and tobacco (concurrent and simultaneous) and GPA were assessed by means of self-reported questionnaires. Statistically significant differences were found for the GPA with respect to gender. The GPA by the non-dual users of cannabis and tobacco was significantly higher than the GPA corresponding to the concurrent and simultaneous users. The combined use of cannabis and tobacco, regardless of the type of use (concurrent or simultaneous), is moderately related to poor academic achievement amongst university students.
Power Flow Distribution Strategy for Improved Power Electronics Energy Efficiency in Battery Storage Systems: Development and Implementation in a Utility-Scale System
Authors: Schimpe Michael , Piesch Christian , Hesse Holger , Paß Julian , Ritter Stefan , Jossen Andreas
Published: March 2018

Utility-scale battery storage systems typically consist of multiple smaller units contributing to the overall power dispatch of the system. Herein, the power distribution among these units is analyzed and optimized to operate the system with increased energy efficiency. To improve the real-life storage operation, a holistic system model for battery storage systems has been developed that enables a calculation of the energy efficiency. A utility-scale Second-Life battery storage system with a capacity of 3.3 MWh/3 MW is operated and evaluated in this work. The system is in operation for the provision of primary control reserve in combination with intraday trading for controlling the battery state of charge. The simulation model is parameterized with the system data. Results show that losses in power electronics dominate. An operational strategy improving the energy efficiency through an optimized power flow distribution within the storage system is developed. The power flow distribution strategy is based on the reduction of the power electronics losses at no-load/partial-load by minimizing their in-operation time. The simulation derived power flow distribution strategy is implemented in the real-life storage system. Field-test measurements and analysis prove the functionality of the power flow distribution strategy and reveal the reduction of the energy throughput of the units by 7%, as well as a significant reduction of energy losses in the units by 24%. The cost savings for electricity over the system’s lifetime are approximated to 4.4% of its investment cost.
Integrated Approach to Sustainable Land Use Management
Authors: Izakovičová Zita , Špulerová Jana , Petrovič František
Published: March 2018

This article presents the integrated approach to sustainable land use management based on the assessment of land use and related land cover changes. Land use changes are conditioned by human activities producing changes in landscape cover and initiating processes which cause many environmental problems. It is therefore important to determine the drivers and causality of landscape changes which can then be negated to ensure sustainable land use management. The integrated landscape research approach is based on understanding landscape as a geo-ecosystem with natural, human, cultural, and historical potential. Our aim is to define the aspects of land use management which can regulate social development. The proposal for optimal land use is based on the interaction between natural capital, represented by the supply of natural regional resources and environmental conditions as well as demand represented by community need for development. The conflict between the supply of natural capital and demands lacking respect for landscape resources is an important determining factor in environmental and human problems. The integrated approach is focused on long-term rational utilization of the natural and cultural-historical resources, urban development, and the elimination of current environmental and socioeconomic problems as well as the prevention of new ones. Multi-criteria analysis is required for final environmental decision-making.
Advances on Polymer Optical Fiber Gratings Using a KrF Pulsed Laser System Operating at 248 nm
Authors: Marques Carlos , Leal-Junior Arnaldo , Min Rui , Domingues Maria , Leitão Cátia , Antunes Paulo , Ortega Beatriz , André Paulo
Published: March 2018

This paper presents the achievements and progress made on the polymer optical fiber (POF) gratings inscription in different types of Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs) and long period gratings (LPGs). Since the first demonstration of POFBGs in 1999, significant progress has been made where the inscription times that were higher than 1 h have been reduced to 15 ns with the application of the krypton fluoride (KrF) pulsed laser operating at 248 nm and thermal treatments such as the pre-annealing of fibers. In addition, the application of dopants such as benzyl dimethyl ketal (BDK) has provided a significant decrease of the fiber inscription time. Furthermore, such improvements lead to the possibility of inscribing POF gratings in 850 nm and 600 nm, instead of only the 1550 nm region. The progress on the inscription of different types of polymer optical fiber Bragg gratings (POFBGs) such as chirped POFBGs and phase-shifted POFBGs are also reported in this review.
Chemical and Nutritional Characterization of Seed Oil from Cucurbita maxima L. (var. Berrettina) Pumpkin
Authors: Montesano Domenico , Blasi Francesca , Simonetti Maria , Santini Antonello , Cossignani Lina
Published: March 2018

Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.) has received considerable attention in recent years because of the nutritional and health-protective value of seed oil. The nutritional composition of pumpkin native to central Italy, locally known as “Berrettina” (Cucurbita maxima L.), was evaluated. In particular, the lipid fraction of seed oil was characterized, and the triacylglycerol (TAG) was thoroughly studied by using a stereospecific procedure to obtain the intrapositional fatty acid composition of the three sn-positions of the glycerol backbone of TAG. Moreover, alkaline hydrolysis was carried out to study the main components of the unsaponifiable fraction, i.e., sterols and alcohols. It was observed that monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids were the most abundant (41.7% and 37.2%, respectively) in Berrettina pumpkin seed oil, with high content of oleic and linoleic acid (41.4% and 37.0%, respectively). The main sterols of Berrettina pumpkin seed oil were Δ7,22,25-stigmastatrienol, Δ7,25-stigmastadienol, and spinasterol; with regard to the alcoholic fraction, triterpenic compounds were more abundant than aliphatic compounds (63.2% vs. 36.8%). The obtained data are useful to evaluate pumpkin seed oil from a nutritional point of view. The oil obtained from the seed could be used as a preservative and as a functional ingredient in different areas, e.g., cosmetics, foods, and nutraceuticals.
Production of Barbari Bread (Traditional Iranian Bread) Using Different Levels of Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) and Sodium Stearoyl Lactate (SSL)
Authors: Pourafshar Shirin , Rosentrater Kurt , Krishnan Padmanaban
Published: March 2018

Bread is one of the oldest foods known throughout history and even though it is one of the principal types of staple around the world, it usually lacks enough nutrients, including protein and fiber. As such, fortification is one of the best solutions to overcome this problem. Thus, the objective this study was to examine the effect of three levels of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) (0%, 10% and 20%) in conjunction with three levels of SSL (sodium stearoyl lactate) (0%, 2% and 5%) on physical and chemical properties of Barbari bread (traditional Iranian bread). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate DDGS and Sodium Stearoyl-2-Lactilate (SSL), as sources of fortification in Barbari bread. The results showed that incorporation of 20% of DDGS and 0% SSL caused a significant increase in the amount of fiber and protein. As for the physical attributes, using higher amount of DDGS caused a darker color, and as for the texture parameters, the highest firmness was measured when 10% DDGS and 5% of SSL were used. Different Mixolab and Rapid Visco Analyzer (RVA) parameters also were measured with varying results. The findings of this study show that DDGS can be a valuable source of fiber and protein, which can be used as a cost effective source to fortify cereal-based products.
Imitation of Peers in Children and Adults
Authors: Apesteguia Jose , Huck Steffen , Oechssler Jörg , Weidenholzer Elke , Weidenholzer Simon
Published: March 2018

Imitation of the successful choices of others is a simple and superficially attractive learning rule. It has been shown to be an important driving force for the strategic behavior of (young) adults. In this study we examine whether imitation is prevalent in the behavior of children aged between 8 and 10. Surprisingly, we find that imitation seems to be cognitively demanding. Most children in this age group ignore information about others, foregoing substantial learning opportunities. While this seems to contradict much of the literature in the field of psychology, we argue that success-based imitation of peers may be harder for children to perform than non-success-based imitation of adults.
Translational Advances of Hydrofection by Hydrodynamic Injection
Authors: Sendra Luis , Herrero María , Aliño Salvador
Published: March 2018

Hydrodynamic gene delivery has proven to be a safe and efficient procedure for gene transfer, able to mediate, in murine model, therapeutic levels of proteins encoded by the transfected gene. In different disease models and targeting distinct organs, it has been demonstrated to revert the pathologic symptoms and signs. The therapeutic potential of hydrofection led different groups to work on the clinical translation of the procedure. In order to prevent the hemodynamic side effects derived from the rapid injection of a large volume, the conditions had to be moderated to make them compatible with its use in mid-size animal models such as rat, hamster and rabbit and large animals as dog, pig and primates. Despite the different approaches performed to adapt the conditions of gene delivery, the results obtained in any of these mid-size and large animals have been poorer than those obtained in murine model. Among these different strategies to reduce the volume employed, the most effective one has been to exclude the vasculature of the target organ and inject the solution directly. This procedure has permitted, by catheterization and surgical procedures in large animals, achieving protein expression levels in tissue close to those achieved in gold standard models. These promising results and the possibility of employing these strategies to transfer gene constructs able to edit genes, such as CRISPR, have renewed the clinical interest of this procedure of gene transfer. In order to translate the hydrodynamic gene delivery to human use, it is demanding the standardization of the procedure conditions and the molecular parameters of evaluation in order to be able to compare the results and establish a homogeneous manner of expressing the data obtained, as ‘classic’ drugs.
A Narrative Review on the Human Health Effects of Ambient Air Pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa: An Urgent Need for Health Effects Studies
Authors: Coker Eric , Kizito Samuel
Published: March 2018

An important aspect of the new sustainable development goals (SDGs) is a greater emphasis on reducing the health impacts from ambient air pollution in developing countries. Meanwhile, the burden of human disease attributable to ambient air pollution in sub-Saharan Africa is growing, yet estimates of its impact on the region are possibly underestimated due to a lack of air quality monitoring, a paucity of air pollution epidemiological studies, and important population vulnerabilities in the region. The lack of ambient air pollution epidemiologic data in sub-Saharan Africa is also an important global health disparity. Thousands of air pollution health effects studies have been conducted in Europe and North America, rather than in urban areas that have some of the highest measured air pollution levels in world, including urban areas in sub-Saharan Africa. In this paper, we provide a systematic and narrative review of the literature on ambient air pollution epidemiological studies that have been conducted in the region to date. Our review of the literature focuses on epidemiologic studies that measure air pollutants and relate air pollution measurements with various health outcomes. We highlight the gaps in ambient air pollution epidemiological studies conducted in different sub-regions of sub-Saharan Africa and provide methodological recommendations for future environmental epidemiology studies addressing ambient air pollution in the region.
An Interoperable System toward Cardiac Risk Stratification from ECG Monitoring
Authors: Soguero-Ruiz Cristina , Mora-Jiménez Inmaculada , Ramos-López Javier , Quintanilla Fernández Teresa , García-García Antonio , Díez-Mazuela Daniel , García-Alberola Arcadi , Rojo-Álvarez José
Published: March 2018

Many indices have been proposed for cardiovascular risk stratification from electrocardiogram signal processing, still with limited use in clinical practice. We created a system integrating the clinical definition of cardiac risk subdomains from ECGs and the use of diverse signal processing techniques. Three subdomains were defined from the joint analysis of the technical and clinical viewpoints. One subdomain was devoted to demographic and clinical data. The other two subdomains were intended to obtain widely defined risk indices from ECG monitoring: a simple-domain (heart rate turbulence (HRT)), and a complex-domain (heart rate variability (HRV)). Data provided by the three subdomains allowed for the generation of alerts with different intensity and nature, as well as for the grouping and scrutinization of patients according to the established processing and risk-thresholding criteria. The implemented system was tested by connecting data from real-world in-hospital electronic health records and ECG monitoring by considering standards for syntactic (HL7 messages) and semantic interoperability (archetypes based on CEN/ISO EN13606 and SNOMED-CT). The system was able to provide risk indices and to generate alerts in the health records to support decision-making. Overall, the system allows for the agile interaction of research and clinical practice in the Holter-ECG-based cardiac risk domain.
Comparison of Airway Responses Induced in a Mouse Model by the Gas and Particulate Fractions of Gasoline Direct Injection Engine Exhaust
Authors: Maikawa Caitlin , Zimmerman Naomi , Ramos Manuel , Shah Mittal , Wallace James , Pollitt Krystal
Published: March 2018

Diesel exhaust has been associated with asthma, but its response to other engine emissions is not clear. The increasing prevalence of vehicles with gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines motivated this study, and the objective was to evaluate pulmonary responses induced by acute exposure to GDI engine exhaust in an allergic asthma murine model. Mice were sensitized with an allergen to induce airway hyperresponsiveness or treated with saline (non-allergic group). Animals were challenged for 2-h to exhaust from a laboratory GDI engine operated at conditions equivalent to a highway cruise. Exhaust was filtered to assess responses induced by the particulate and gas fractions. Short-term exposure to particulate matter from GDI engine exhaust induced upregulation of genes related to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) metabolism (Cyp1b1) and inflammation (TNFα) in the lungs of non-allergic mice. High molecular weight PAHs dominated the particulate fraction of the exhaust, and this response was therefore likely attributable to the presence of these PAHs. The particle fraction of GDI engine exhaust further contributed to enhanced methacholine responsiveness in the central and peripheral tissues in animals with airway hyperresponsiveness. As GDI engines gain prevalence in the vehicle fleet, understanding the health impacts of their emissions becomes increasingly important.
An Empirical Study of Chronic Diseases in the United States: A Visual Analytics Approach to Public Health
Authors: Raghupathi Wullianallur , Raghupathi Viju
Published: March 2018

In this research we explore the current state of chronic diseases in the United States, using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and applying visualization and descriptive analytics techniques. Five main categories of variables are studied, namely chronic disease conditions, behavioral health, mental health, demographics, and overarching conditions. These are analyzed in the context of regions and states within the U.S. to discover possible correlations between variables in several categories. There are widespread variations in the prevalence of diverse chronic diseases, the number of hospitalizations for specific diseases, and the diagnosis and mortality rates for different states. Identifying such correlations is fundamental to developing insights that will help in the creation of targeted management, mitigation, and preventive policies, ultimately minimizing the risks and costs of chronic diseases. As the population ages and individuals suffer from multiple conditions, or comorbidity, it is imperative that the various stakeholders, including the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), policy makers, health providers, and society as a whole, address these adverse effects in a timely and efficient manner.