bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Cardiovascular Disease Detection
Authors: Castro Ana Rita , Silva Sara Oliveira , Soares Sandra Clara
Published: November 2018

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are responsible for a high mortality rate worldwide. One of the most common causes of CVDs is vascular inflammation associated to atherosclerosis. Inflammatory biomarkers are used to assist the detection of CVDs and monitor their evaluation, prognosis and therapy implementation. C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein produced after stimulation by pro-inflammatory cytokines. CRP is a biomarker of the inflammatory reaction and an important mediator of atherosclerosis. Given it actively contributes to the development of the atherosclerotic plaque, instability and subsequent clot formation it is also considered a CVD risk factor. Since 2010, the plasma concentration of hsCRP (high sensitivity CRP) has been used as a biomarker for disease prognosis in patients with intermediate risk for CVDs. It could be useful to establish a high concentration limit of hsCRP that can be used by clinicians for diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, cardio embolic or ischemic stroke, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The end cost/effectiveness of hsCRP screening is still an area of controversy but it is a priority to make the medical community aware of the positive relation between high hsCRP and CVDs to improve median survival and life quality of the patients.
Green Preparation of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Supported Pd and Cu Nanoparticles with Novel Vic-dioxime Metal Complexes
Authors: ULUSAL Fatma , GÜZEL Bilgehan
Published: November 2018

The preparation of multi-walled
carbon nanotubes (MW-CNTs) supported Cu and Pd nanoparticles on utilizing a
supercritical carbon dioxide deposition method were
investigated. Novel vic-dioxime
complexes of Cu(II) and Pd(II) were used as metallic precursors. The ligand
used in these precursors were 4-(trifluoromethyl)aniline-vic-dioxide. Ligand and metal complexes were synthesized and identified
with various analyses method including 1H and 19F NMR,
FT-IR, UV-Vis, elemental analysis and magnetic susceptibility. MW-CNTs
supported Pd and Cu nanoparticles were characterized by high-resolution
transmission electron microscopy (HR_TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning
electron microscopy with EDX (SEM_EDX). SEM_EDX and HR_TEM micrographs showed a
homogenous distribution of reasonably well-dispersed
Cu and Pd nanoparticles on the support. The nature and crystallinity of the
nano metal particles were confirmed using XRD. Crystallite sizes ranged from
7-20 nm for palladium and 20-30 nm for copper. This study demonstrated that
these oxime complexes are suitable precursors for the preparation of supported
nanoparticles using a supercritical carbon dioxide deposition method.
RAIMUNDO JOSÉ DE SOUSA GAIOSO E OS 200 ANOS DA PUBLICAÇÃO DO COMPáŠNDIO HISTÓRICO-POLáTICO DOS PRINCáPIOS DA LAVOURA DO MARANHAÌƒO (1818): notas bibliográficas
Authors: BASáLIO ROMáRIO SAMPAIO
Published: November 2018

Neste artigo apresento e analiso traços biobibliográficos acerca de Raimundo José de Sousa Gaioso, autor da obra Compêndio histórico-polá­tico dos princá­pios da lavoura do MaranhaÌƒo, publicada postumamente em 1818. Aos duzentos anos da publicação, apresento os principais aspectos da obra-mestra do português, vista como uma das mais importantes publicações sobre o Maranhão do primeiro quartel do século XIX. Questiono os principais vestá­gios da trajetória do lavrador assim como o ambiente biográfico em torno das principais ideias da memória. Discuto o constante discurso subserviente latente na obra e insiro o personagem no campo intelectual em que estava inserido, bem como sua condição de classe.Palavras-chave: Maranhão. Burocratas. Memórias. Economia polá­tica.RAIMUNDO JOSÉ DE SOUSA GAIOSO AND THE 200TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PUBLICATION OF ”COMPáŠNDIO HISTÓRICO-POLáTICO DOS PRINCáPIOS DA LAVOURA DO MARANHáƒO” (1818):  bio-bibliographical notes  Abstract: In this paper, bio-bibliographical elements about Raimundo José de Sousa Gaioso, the author of the book Compêndio histórico-polá­tico dos princá­pios da lavoura do Maranhão, will be presented and analyzed. This work was published posthumously in 1818. Two hundred years after the publication of this book, It will be presented the main aspects of the masterpiece of this Portuguese author, one of the most important publications about the Province of Maranhão in the first quarter of the 19th century. It will be questioned the main vestiges of the peasant”™s path besides his biographical environment about the main memory ideas. It will be discussed the constant subservient position in the book and insert the character within Gaioso”™s intellectual field as well as his class condition.  Keywords: Maranhão. Bureaucrats. Memories. Political Economy.  RAIMUNDO JOSÉ DE SOUSA GAIOSO Y LOS 200 Aá‘OS DE LA PUBLICACIÓN DEL COMPáŠNDIO HISTÓRICO-POLáTICO DOS PRINCáPIOS DA LAVOURA DO MARANHAÌƒO (1818):  notas biobliográficas  Resumen: En este artá­culo presento y analizo rastros biobibliográficos sobre Raimundo José de Sousa Gaioso, autor del Compêndio histórico-polá­tico dos princá­pios da lavoura do MaranhaÌƒo publicado póstumamente en 1818. Después de doscientos años de haber sido publicado, intento presentar los aspectos principales de la obra maestra del portugués, como una de las más importantes publicaciones sobre Maranhão del primer cuarto del siglo XIX. Cuestiono los principales vestigios de la trayectoria del labrador asá­ como el ambiente biográfico en torno a las principales ideas de la memoria. Discuto el constante discurso subordinado y latente en la obra e inserto al personaje en el campo intelectual al que perteneció, asá­ como su condición de clase.  Palabras clave: Maranhão. Burócratas. Memorias. Polá­tica económica.
PENSAR O DITO E O SILENCIADO: Representações da escravidão na historiografia
Authors: FERREIRA CELESTE SILVA
Published: November 2018

As transformações historiográficas ocorridas no final do século XX causaram uma reviravolta metodológica na análise da documentação referente a sujeitos escravizados. Correspondências oficiais ou pessoais, inquéritos, processos judiciais, testamentos, inventários, jornais, diários, enfim, todo um conjunto documental passou a ser visto com novos olhares e possibilidades interpretativas a partir do que se convencionou chamar de ”virada linguá­stica”. Desta feita, este trabalho traz reflexões sobre a escravidão em suas múltiplas representações empreendida pela historiografia brasileira.Palavras-chave:  Escravidão. Representação. Historiografia.  THINKING THE SPOKEN AND THE SILENCED:  Representations of slavery in historiographyAbstract:  The historiographical transformations occurred in the late 20th century caused a methodological upheaval in the analysis of the documentation related to enslaved subjects. Official and personal correspondence, surveys, legal proceedings, wills, inventories, newspapers, journals, and finally a whole series of documents began to materialize with new perspectives and possibilities for interpretation of what has been purported as "linguistic turn". This account, this work brings reflections on the slavery in its multiple representations undertaken by Brazilian historiography.Keywords: Slavery. Representation. Historiography.  PENSAR LO HABLADO Y LO SILENCIADO: Representaciones de la esclavitud en la historiografá­aResumen: Las transformaciones historiográficas ocurridas a finales del siglo XX causaron un cambio metodológico en el análisis de la documentación referente a sujetos esclavizados. Correspondencias oficiales o personales, investigaciones, procesos judiciales, testamentos, inventarios, periódicos, diarios, o sea, todo un conjunto documental pasó a ser visto con nuevas miradas y posibilidades interpretativas a partir de lo que se ha convenido llamar de ”giro lingá¼á­stico”. De ese modo, este trabajo trae reflexiones sobre la esclavitud en sus múltiples representaciones emprendida por la historiografá­a brasileña.Palabras clave: Esclavitud. Representación. Historiografá­a.
The False and the Furious
Authors: Allers Kimberly Seals
Published: November 2018

Social media has become an important source of information for new mothers. Many seek out information on breastfeeding. This is particularly true for low-income mothers who may not have paid access to credible news sources or to evidence-based journals. This may also perpetuate racial disparities in breastfeeding. Negative social media campaigns have highlighted the “dangers” of breastfeeding and used extremist language to brand breastfeeding supporters. This article suggests some specific strategies for addressing gaps in our current system and countering the negative information. Breastfeeding should be framed as a reproductive right.
Differentiating Normal Newborn Weight Loss From Breastfeeding Failure
Authors: Genna Catherine Watson , Notarangelo Micaela
Published: November 2018

There is increasing concern for the risk of hypernatremic dehydration in infants breastfeeding poorly. It is important to differentiate normal weight changes as infants adapt to extrauterine life from excessive weight loss from breastfeeding failure or mismanagement. We review recent data on normal weight changes in exclusively breastfeeding infants and those at risk for hypernatremic dehydration to help health professionals determine when infants require further scrutiny and supplementation. The data suggest that perinatal practices influence infant weight changes. Protecting normal birth and early initiation of breastfeeding should reduce the incidence of excessive weight loss and risk of hypernatremic dehydration
Is It Really Mothers’ Choice?
Authors: Kendall-Tackett Kathleen , Moberg Kerstin Uvnas
Published: November 2018

Much of the debate about breastfeeding is framed as the “mother’s choice.” As providers, we must always respect mothers’ choices about how they feed their babies. However, there are provider-level barriers that undermine breastfeeding and, therefore, limit mothers’ feeding choices. We address two systemic/provider-level barriers: birth interventions and providers’ attitudes. Both birth interventions and negative provider attitudes about breastfeeding undermine the oxytocin system, making breastfeeding more difficult. Becoming aware of these barriers, providing mothers with effective support during labor and postpartum and changing provider attitudes are essential for increasing exclusive breastfeeding rates.
Antonio Niño. Un siglo de hispanismo en la Sorbona
Authors: Mendoza Martín Irene
Published: November 2018

Este artículo reseña: Antonio Niño, Un siglo de hispanismo en la Sorbona. París, Éditions Hispaniques, 2017, 130 pp.
Manuel Casado Arboniés y Carmen Román Pastor, Fundadores y patronos universitarios, Alcalá de Henares, siglo XVI
Authors: Ramis Barceló Rafael
Published: November 2018

Este artículo reseña: M. Casado Arboniés y C. Román Pastor, Fundadores y patronos universitarios, Alcalá de Henares, siglo XVI, Alcalá, Universidad de Alcalá deHenares, 2017, 436 pp.
Avatares de una visita que no fue: Enrico Ferriy la Universidad Nacional de Córdoba a principios del siglo XX = The Vicissitudes of a Failed visit: Enrico Ferriand the National University of Cordoba at the Beginning of the 20th Century
Authors: Portelli María Belén
Published: November 2018

Resumen: Este artículo se propone reconstruir y analizar las circunstancias conflictivas desarrolladas en la Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (Argentina) en torno a la potencial visita del criminólogo y socialista italiano Enrico Ferri en 1910. El episodio brinda la posibilidad de captar un entramado de actores, ideas y representaciones vigentes en la época en la casa de altos estudios cordobesa. En consecuencia, su análisis permite avanzar en la comprensión de las transformaciones culturales experimentadas por la universidad en el giro del siglo XIX al XX.Palabras clave: Argentina, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enrico Ferri, visitas culturales, derecho.Abstract: The purpose of this article is to analyze the conflictive circumstances that took place in the National University of Cordoba (Argentina) around the potential visit of the italian socialist and criminologist Enrico Ferri in 1910. The episode allows us to perceive a set of actors, ideas and representations in force at that time. Consequently, it contributes to advance in the understanding of the cultural transformations that developed at the university during the transition from the 19th century to the 20th century.Keywords: Argentina, National University of Cordoba, Enrico Ferri, cultural visits, law.
Enrique González González con la colaboración de Víctor Gutiérrez Rodríguez. El poder de las letras. Por una historia social de las universidades de la América hispana en el período colonial
Authors: Sánchez-Raygada Carlos Hugo
Published: November 2018

Este artículo reseña: Enrique González González con la colaboración de Víctor Gutiérrez Rodríguez. El poder de las letras. Por una historia social de las universidades de la América hispana en el período colonial. México, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana y Ediciones Educación y Cultura, 2017: 970 pp.
Javier Rivera Blanco (dir.). Arqui­tectura universitaria. Ciudades Patri­monio Mundial
Authors: Muñoz Hernández Jara
Published: November 2018

Este artículo reseña: Javier Rivera Blanco (dir.). Arqui­tectura universitaria. Ciudades Patri­monio Mundial. Madrid, Universidad de Alcalá, 2016, 348 pp.
Environmental management within the indigenous perspective
Authors: Huruta Andrian Dolfrianda , Kurniasari Maria Dyah
Published: November 2018

The environment (nature) is one of the most important aspects of life that needs to be considered when referring to and regarding sustainable development. This article aims to describe environmental management based on local knowledge using the case study conducted focusing on Mbatakapidu. The environment, which is a space for people to create a sustainable livelihood, is increasingly being disturbed by the acts of humanity itself. However, we cannot deny that in addition to these conditions, there are still local communities that always strive to create a balance between human and the environment. One of them is a local community in Mbatakapidu. This study used a qualitative approach with a case study perspective. The data collection was done by conducting in-depth interviews with the informants. The six informants were determined purposively. The results of this study show that people of Mbatakapidu trust that there are spirits who inhabit the springs and forests. This is a form of local wisdom that makes them tend to hold on to destructive action against the forest. The people of Mbatakapidu make nature their friend, and seek not to exploit but desire to maintain the sustainability of nature with the traditional local knowledge that they have. It implies that the Mbatakapidu people are obedient to Marapu. The values embraced by Marapu makes people harmonise their life with the natural environment. Therefore, the act of field (savannah) burning turned out to be mobilised by the individual and not at the instigation of local values as believed by the Mbatakapidu.
Traditional body care of women in Madura Island
Authors: Putri Ririn Arisa , Graham-Davies Sharyn , Artaria Myrtati Dyah
Published: November 2018

Most of Indonesian family systems adhere to the patriarchy system, in which the husband has the authority to make decision. It is also the case in Prenduan Village in Sumenep region in Madura Island. This research aimed to know how the body care in Prenduan women in Madura, and how the women’s view upon their body cares. It is interesting to see the point of view of women in Madura, whether they do it for themselves, or forthe husbands. This is a qualitative research. We used in-depth interviews and observation to gather the data. We find that body care of Prenduan women in Sumenep, Madura Island has the purpose to make the husband happy and satisfied. For teenage girls, the purpose is for their health, and to prepare them so that they can function well in their family when they get married. They consider using traditional potion is better than those of modern medication made of chemical materials. The focus of the body care practice is the position of a woman as a partner, who is in the position to make the husband happy and satisfied, and also to take care of the family well, in which among the Madura women it is considered as an honor to have such role.
Auditor's Perception of Usage and Importance of Audit Technology in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Binh Ngo , Nguyen Thi Que , Tran Manh Dung , Nguyen Thi Thanh Phuong
Published: November 2018

This study is conducted for providing new evidence on the extent to which auditors are aware of the use and importance of audit technology in an age of industrial revolution 4.0. By using interviews and questionnaires of auditors at independent audit firms in the context of Vietnam, the findings show the high importance of using audit technology in technical and administrative procedures, particularly for risk assessment. We also assure the use and importance of audit technology is highly valued. The results help policymakers have guidance on the opportunities and challenges of using information technology in the audit process in independent audit.
Burnout, Moral Distress, and Job Turnover in Critical Care Nurses
Authors: Whittaker Brooke A. , Gillum Deborah R. , Kelly Judith M.
Published: November 2018

Nurse turnover, shortages, and lack of nurse retention have all been linked to stress among nurses. This ethnographic study explored if burnout and moral distress, often a result of excessive stress, led to job turnover among critical care nurses in northern Indiana and southern Michigan. It also explored the factors that may cause burnout and moral distress in the identified population. Although burnout and moral distress have been studied in various professions and locales over the years, research specific to critical care nurses has been limited in the northern Indiana, southern Michigan area. In this study, 100% of the nurses felt that burnout and moral distress led to turnover. These same nurses attributed burnout and moral distress to affecting the quality of care given to patients. The guiding framework for this study’s design was Corley’s theory of moral distress.
The Functionality of Book-to-Market Ratio in Chinese Markets
Authors: Li Larry , McMurray Adela , Liu Bo
Published: November 2018

We investigate the question whether the book to market ratio acts as a “risk-based” or “mispricing-based” proxy for share price formation in Chinese markets. We find that a strong relationship is observed between the firms’ book to market ratio and stock returns both in current and following years, while we cannot find a steady relationship between market leverage ratio and stock returns. In addition, the findings support the notion that a mispricing-based explanation is more plausible in China due to the speculative features of the Chinese markets.
Comparative study between intrathecal dexmedetomidine and intrathecal magnesium sulfate in prevention of post spinal shivering in uroscopic surgery. (RCT)
Authors: Omar Heba , Eldin Mona Hossam , Aboella Wessam Adel , Abdelhamid Bassant Mohamed , Hassan Passaint , Hassan Mohamed Mahmoud , Hassan Amany , Elshall Ahmed , Khalid Dalia , Mostafa Maha , Wedad Mai
Published: November 2018

Background: Hypothermia and shivering are associated common complications after spinal anesthesia especially in uroscopic procedures when large amounts of cold intraluminal irrigating fluids are used. Among all adjuvants that have been used in literatures for shivering management, magnesium sulphate and dexmedetomidine were the most effective with least side effects. Our aim of the study is to compare the effect of intrathecal dexmedetomidine versus intrathecal magnesium sulfate in prevention of post spinal shivering.
Methods: This prospective randomized, double-blinded controlled study was conducted at Kasr El-Aini Hospital from September 2017 till April 2018, on 105 patients scheduled for uroscopic surgeries. 105 patients were randomly allocated into three groups using computerized generated random tables, Group C (n=35) received 2.5 ml hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% (12.5 mg) +0.5 ml normal saline, Group M (n=35) received 2.5 ml hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% (12.5 mg) +25 mg magnesium sulfate and Group D (n=35) received 2.5 ml hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% (12.5mg) + 5 μg dexmedetomidine in 0.5 ml saline. Primary outcomes were the incidence and intensity of shivering. Secondary outcomes were incidence of hypothermia (Temp < 36° C), sedation, the use of pethidine to control shivering and complications as hypotension, bradycardia, nausea and vomiting.
Results: C group showed statistically significant higher number of total patients who developed shivering (21), patients who developed grade IV shivering (20) and patients who needed pethidine (21) to treat shivering than M group (8,5,5) and D group (5,3,6) which were comparable to each other.
Time needed to give pethidine after giving the block was similar in the three groups. Hypothermia didn’t occur in any patient in the three groups.
The three groups were comparable regarding occurrence of nausea, vomiting, bradycardia & hypotension. All patients of C group, 32 patients in M group and 33 patients in D group had sedation score of 2. 3 patients in M group and 2 patients in D group had a sedation score of 3.
Conclusions: intrathecal injection of dexmedetomidine and magnesium sulfate in spinal anesthesia were both effective in reducing the incidence of post spinal shivering. So, we encourage the use of magnesium sulphate being more physiological, readily available in most operating theatres and much cheaper than dexmedetomidine.
Clinical trial registration ID: PACTR201801003001727
Evaluation of Endothelial Biomarkers on the Prognosis of Patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Tsai Tsung-Yu , Tu Kun-Hua , Tsai Feng-Chun , Nan Yu-Yun , Fan Pei-Chun , Chang Chih-Hsiang , Tian  , Fang Ji-Tseng , Yang Chih-Wei , Chen Yung-Chang
Published: November 2018

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is often used in critical patients with severe myocardial failure. However, acute kidney injury (AKI) commonly occurs in patients on ECMO and usually brings about poor outcome. Recent studies suggest that renal vascular endothelial cell injury participates in the extent and maintenance of AKI. This study aimed to determine whether the endothelial biomarkers could serve as prognostic factors for the outcome of patients on ECMO.
Methods: This prospective study enrolled total 23 critically ill patients on veno-arterial ECMO in the intensive care units of a tertiary care hospital between March 2014 and February 2015. Serum samples were tested for thrombomodulin, angiopoietin (Ang)-1, Ang-2, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were also collected.
Results: The overall mortality rate was 56.5%. The combination of Ang-2 at the time of ECMO support (day 0) and VEGF at day 2 had modest prognostic ability of discriminating mortality (area under receiver operating characteristic curve [AUROC], 0.854; 95% confidence interval: 0.645-0.965).
Conclusions: In this study, we found that the combination of Ang-2 at day 0 and VEGF at day 2 was a modest model for mortality discrimination in this group of patients.
Prognostic models for ambulatory recovery functions in acute ischemic stroke patients with thrombolysis therapy
Authors: Scalise Matthew , Gainey Jordan , Bailes Benjamin , Brecthtel Leanne , Conn Zachary , Iftikhar Irraj , Nathaniel Thomas I
Published: November 2018

Background. The purpose of this study was to develop models to predict the recovery of ambulatory functions taking into account the capability of the motor system to functionally reorganize in response to thrombolysis therapy.
Methods. We predicted ambulatory functions recovery using retrospective data from a stroke registry of acute ischemic stroke patients who received thrombolysis therapy. Multivariate regression was used to construct the models. Multicollinearity and significant interactions were examined using variance inflation factors, while a Cox & Snell classification were applied to check the fitness of each model.
Results. The models correctly predicted clinical variables that were associated with an improvement or non-improvement in functional ambulatory outcome. Broca’s aphasia (OR = 2.270, P = 0.002, CI =1.34-3.83) was associated with improved functional outcome at discharge, while patients aged 80 years or older (OR = 0.942, P = <0.001, CI =0.92-0.96), patients with congestive heart failure (OR = 0.496, P = 0.040, CI = 0.25-0.97), higher NIHSS (OR=0.876, P = 0.001, CI = 0.80-0.95), taking antihypertensive medication (OR = 0.436, P = 0.023, CI = 0.21-0.89) were not associated with improved ambulatory functional outcome with thrombolysis. The discriminating ability for the model was 74.2% for the total population, 71.7% for the rtPA group, and 72.2% for the no-rtPA group indicating strong performance.
Conclusion. Prognostic models that can predict improved functional ambulatory outcome in thrombolysis therapy can be beneficial in the care of stroke patients. Our models predicted improved functional recovery of Broca’s aphasia after thrombolysis therapy, suggesting a future potential to evaluate motor speech area after stroke.
Temporal Aspects of Vernalization and Flowering in Long-day Storage Onion
Authors: D’Angelo Christopher J. , Goldman Irwin L.
Published: November 2018

Vernalization is an important step for floral initiation in onion (Allium cepa), but our understanding of the minimum vernalization time for long-day storage onions to gain floral competence is limited. A series of time course experiments were conducted over 4 years to determine the effects of vernalization time on sprouting, scape emergence, and flowering in ‘Cortland’, ‘Sherman’, and CUDH2107. We found an endodormancy period is present in the bulbs of these cultivars that lasts for 8 to 10 weeks. In addition, these three accessions achieve optimum uniform scape emergence after chilling for 14 weeks at 10 °C. On average, when bulbs were chilled for 14 weeks, it took 96.8 ± 15.6 days from planting to flowering in all accessions evaluated. As storage duration under vernalizing temperatures increases, the time to sprouting, scape emergence, and flowering decrease. Furthermore, the variance in time from sprouting to scape emergence was greatly reduced between 10 and 12 weeks of storage for ‘Cortland’ and CUDH2107, and between 12 and 14 weeks for ‘Sherman’. After 10 weeks of chilling, each additional week of storage resulted in an average decrease in time to flowering of 4.1%. We also observed large percentages of bulbs flowering without receiving any vernalization. This observation supports our finding that the relationship between vernalization and flowering in long-day storage onion is facultative rather than obligate. These findings help define the relationship between dormancy, vernalization, and flowering in long-day storage onion.
Identification and Validation of Stable Reference Genes for Gene Expression Analysis in Sword-leaf Dogbane Using Quantitative Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Xu Zongchang , Wang Meng , Zhou Jinhui , Liu Han , Zhang Chengsheng , Li Yiqiang
Published: November 2018

Sword-leaf dogbane (Apocynum venetum) is a traditional Chinese herb with increasingly recognized potential to enhance health, but no study of stable reference genes in this herb has been reported. Based on a homologous cloning strategy, we have successfully cloned five candidate reference genes from sword-leaf dogbane: glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (AvGAPDH), beta tubulin (AvbTUB), polyubiquitin (AvUBQ), elongation factor 1-alpha (AvEF1α), and actin (AvACTIN). Three distinct algorithms, geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper, were used to estimate the expression stability of candidate reference primer pairs. We found that AvACTIN-2 and AvACTIN-3 presented the highest stability of expression in different tissue samples, and AvGAPDH-2 was most stable under salinity stress. In addition, we illustrated the application of these new reference genes by assaying the expression levels of two hyperoside biosynthesis terminal enzyme genes, flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H) and flavonol synthase (FLS), under salinity stress. Our study is the first to report stable expression of internal reference genes in sword-leaf dogbane in multiple experimental sample sets.
IMAGE SEGMENTATION OF CHEST X-RAYS FOR ABNORMALITY PATTERN RECOGNATION IN LUNGS USING FUZZY C-MEANS METHOD
Authors: Wikanargo Matheus Alvian , Thenata Angelina Pramana
Published: November 2018

The lungs are one of the important and vital organs in the body that function as a respiratory system process. One way to detect lung disease is to do an X-rays test. Chest X-ray is a radiographic projection to detect abnormalities in lung organ by using x-ray radiation. In the process of diagnosing, doctors see the condition of the results of Chest X-rays in the form of a thorax image (chest) to know the patient has an abnormal or normal lung. However, doctors' diagnosis of chest X-rays results-based abnormalities is likely to differ depending on the doctor's abilities and experience. This problem is expected to be solved by segmenting the lung image to help make the diagnosis appropriately. The purpose of this study is to conduct an analysis that can differentiate abnormal and normal lungs. The process of recognition of these patterns consists of the pre-processing stage of image segmentation by using morphology and then proceed to grouping by using fuzzy c-means method to express the pattern of the already segmented image. This research produces normal and abnormal lung images that can be identified with an accuracy of 80%.
DEVLET TEORİSİ’NDE TARİHİN YERİ: BİR KURGUDAN HİKÂYE, BİR HİKÂYEDEN HAKİKAT YARATMAK
Authors: SAYGILI Abdurrahman
Published: November 2018

Devlet teorisi, kamu hukukunun inceleme alanı
içindedir. Devlet kuramını anlamak için, ilk önce, onun inceleme yöntemini
tayin etmek gerekir. Bu yöntemin oluşturulmasında tarih öncü bir rol oynar. Dolayısıyla tarih nedir? sorusuna verilecek olan cevap oldukça önemlidir. Tarih
geçmişin bir çeşit kazıbilimidir, onun araştırılması ve soruşturulmasıdır. Öte
yandan devleti inceleyenler, geleneksel bir inceleme metodu olarak tarihsel bir
doğru izlerler. Tarihi sanki hep ilerlemeden ibaretmiş gibi algılayan bu
anlayış, tarihi bir süreklilik olarak görür. Oysa tarihe düz bir çizgi ya da
süreklilik olarak değil, süreksizliklerden oluşan, geri gidişler, yani tarihsel
sıçrayışlarla anlaşılabilecek bir söylem tarzıyla yaklaşılabilir. Dolayısıyla
devleti anlamak için bir metodolojiye ihtiyaç duyulur. Devleti sadece hukuksal
kurumları üzerinden anlamak yerine, onun tarihini, doğasını ve iktidar ile
ilişkisini anlamak gerekir. İşte bu devleti incelemenin metodolojisidir. Tarihçi somut vakalar üzerinden incelemeler yapmalı; konuyu araştırıp,
çözümledikten sonra belgelere de dayanarak sahici hikâyeler anlatmalıdır. Bu çalışma, Michel Foucault’un hukuk üzerine kimi düşüncelerine
değinerek ve tarih kavramı üzerine eleştirel bir sorgulama izleği kurarak bu
metodolojinin temel yapı taşını belirlemeyi hedeflemektedir.
GÖÇ, YOKSULLUK ve İNSAN HAKLARI
Authors: KANSU KARADAĞ Akasya
Published: November 2018

Kapitalizmin
egemenliği altındaki günümüz dünyasında göç ve yoksulluk birbirini etkileyen
iki güncel olgudur. Küreselleşen dünyada yoksulluk göçe, göç de yoksulluğa yol
açmaktadır.  Göçmenler kendi ülkelerinden
yoksulluk nedeniyle göç etmekte göçtükleri ülkelerde bu sefer yoksulluk ve
yoksulluğun bir türü olan yoksunluğa düşmektedirler. Göçmenler yeni
ikametgahlarında sosyal dışlanma, şiddet, gettolaşma, marjinalleşme, toplumsal
cinsiyet ayrımcılığı gibi bir dizi haksızlığa uğramaktadır. Ulus devletler göçmenlerin
yoksulluk ve yoksunları karşısında yasal düzenlemeleri sosyal adaleti sağlamak
amacıyla değil kendi güvenlik kaygıları kapsamında yerine getirmektedirler.
Kendi vatandaşları için sosyal hakların korunması bakımından son derece duyarlı
olan ülkelerin göçmenlerin sosyal hakları söz konusu olduğunda sessiz
kaldıkları görülmektedir. Sosyal hakları korunmayan göçmenlerin her geçen gün
dünyanın dört bir yanında yoksulluğun değişik biçimlerine maruz kaldıkları bir
gerçektir. Rekabetçi kapitalizmin yayılmasıyla göçmenlerin sosyal haklarının
ihlal edilmesi sorunsalı çözümsüz bir hal almaktadır. Söz konusu çalışma ile
göç ve yoksulluk ikiliğinde göçmenlerin insan haklarının yerini sorgulamak,
yoksulluğun ve yoksunluğun ortadan kaldırılmasındaki temel etkenlerin ortaya
çıkarılması amaçlanmaktadır.
AO-BBO: A Novel Optimization Algorithm and Its Application in Plant Drug Extraction
Authors: Lv Bote , Chen Juan , Liu Boyan , Dong Cuiying
Published: November 2018

Introduction: It is well-known that the biogeography-based optimization (BBO) algorithm lacks searching power in some circumstances.  Material & Methods: In order to address this issue, an adaptive opposition-based biogeography-based optimization algorithm (AO-BBO) is proposed. Based on the BBO algorithm and opposite learning strategy, this algorithm chooses different opposite learning probabilities for each individual according to the habitat suitability index (HSI), so as to avoid elite individuals from returning to local optimal solution. Meanwhile, the proposed method is tested in 9 benchmark functions respectively.  Result: The results show that the improved AO-BBO algorithm can improve the population diversity better and enhance the search ability of the global optimal solution. The global exploration capability, convergence rate and convergence accuracy have been significantly improved. Eventually, the algorithm is applied to the parameter optimization of soft-sensing model in plant medicine extraction rate.

Conclusion:

The simulation results show that the model obtained by this method has higher prediction accuracy and generalization ability.
Sex-Specific Association Between Serum Uric Acid and Elevated Alanine Aminotransferase in a Military Cohort: The CHIEF Study
Authors: Lin Jia-Wei , Tsai Kun-Zhe , Chen Kai-Wen , Su Fang-Ying , Li Yi-Hwei , Lin Yen-Po , Han Chih-Lu , Lin Felicia , Lin Yu-Kai , Hsieh Chung-Bao , Lin Gen-Min
Published: November 2018

Aim:

The study was conducted in order to examine the sex-specific association of serum
uric acid (SUA) levels with elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in a Taiwanese military
cohort.

Methods:

We made a cross-sectional examination of the sex-specific relationship using 6728 men and
766 women, aged 18-50 years from a large military cohort in Taiwan. SUA levels within the reference
range (<7.0 mg/dL for men and <5.7 mg/dL for women respectively) were divided into quartiles and
SUA levels greater than the upper reference limits were defined as hyperuricemia. Elevated ALT levels
were defined as ≥40 U/L. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the
association between each SUA category and elevated ALT levels in men and women, respectively.

Results:

The prevalence of hyperuricemia and elevated ALT in men were 18.7% and 12.7%, respectively,
and in women were 3.3% and 2.1%, respectively. As compared with the lowest SUA quartile,
hyperuricemia was associated with elevated ALT in men (odds ratios (OR): 1.62, 95% confidence
intervals (CI): 1.19-2.20) after controlling for age, service specialty, body mass index, metabolic syndrome
components, current cigarette smoking, alcohol intake status, and weekly exercise times, but the
associations for the other SUA quartiles were null. By contrast, the associations of hyperuricemia (OR:
0.81, 95% CI: 0.10-6.64) and the other SUA quartiles with elevated ALT were null in women.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that the relationship between each SUA level and elevated ALT may
differ by sex among military young adults. The mechanism for the sex difference requires further investigations.
Emerging Therapeutic Targets for Metabolic Syndrome: Lessons from Animal Models
Authors: Singh Himadri , Pragasam Samuel Joshua , Venkatesan Vijayalakshmi
Published: November 2018

Background:

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of medical conditions that synergistically increase the risk of heart diseases and diabetes. The current treatment strategy for metabolic syndrome focuses on treating its individual components. A highly effective agent for metabolic syndrome has yet to be developed. To develop a target for metabolic syndrome, the mechanism encompassing different organs - nervous system, pancreas, skeletal muscle, liver and adipose tissue - needs to be understood. Many animal models have been developed to understand the pathophysiology of metabolic syndrome. Promising molecular targets have emerged while characterizing these animals. Modulating these targets is expected to treat some components of metabolic syndrome.

Objective:

o discuss the emerging molecular targets in an animal model of metabolic syndrome.

Methods:

A literature search was performed for the retrieval of relevant articles.

Conclusion:

Multiple genes/pathways that play important role in the development of Metabolic Syndrome are discussed.
Unequal Absorption of Radiolabeled and Nonradiolabeled Drug from the Oral Dose Leads to Incorrect Estimates of Drug Absorption and Circulating Metabolites in a Mass Balance Study
Authors: Takahashi Ryan H. , Chang Jae H. , Pang Jodie , Liang Xiaorong , Ma Shuguang
Published: November 2018

Background:

Mass balance studies conducted using radiolabeled material (14C or 3H) definitively
characterize the Absorption, Metabolism, and Excretion (AME) of a drug. A critical aspect of
these studies is that the radiotracer maintains its proportion to total drug from its administration to its
complete elimination from the body. In the study of GDC-0276 in beagle dogs, we observed that the
14C radiotracer proportion (specific activity) varied through the study.

Method:

High resolution-accurate mass spectrometric measurements of 12C and 14C isotopes of GDC-
0276 and its metabolites in plasma and excreta samples were used to determine the apparent specific
activities, which were higher than the specific activity of the dosing formulation. Drug concentrations
were adjusted to the observed specific activities to correct the readouts for GDC-0276 AME and PK.

Results:

The enrichment of 14C, which resulted in higher specific activities, was consistent with faster
and more extensive absorption of the radiotracer from the dosing formulation. This resulted in overestimating
the dose absorbed, the extent of elimination in urine and bile, and the exposures to circulating
metabolites. These biases were corrected by the specific activities determined for study samples by
mass spectrometry.

Conclusion:

Assuming that the radiotracer was proportional to total drug throughout a radiolabeled
study was not valid in a 14C study in beagle dogs. This presumably resulted from unequal absorption of
the radiotracer and nonradiolabeled test articles from the oral dose due to inequivalent solid forms. We
were able to provide a more accurate description of the AME of GDC-0276 in dogs by characterizing
the differential absorption of the radiotracer.
Study of Influences of Fracture Additives on Stability of Crude Oil Emulsion
Authors: Fang Hongbo , Wang Mingxia , Liu Xiaoyun , Jin Weinan , Ma Xiangyang , Meng Xiangyu , Yan Feng
Published: November 2018

Background:

A hydraulic fracture is a key technology to increase production of the low permeability oil fields. Fracture additives such as gels, friction reducers, pH adjusters and clay stabilizers were injected into the underground. While more than 50% of the fracture fluid remains underground. The residue of fracture fluid comes out with the produced liquid (a mixture of crude oil and water) in the subsequent oil recovery process, which results in a highly stable crude oil-water emulsion.

Objective:

The stability and stable mechanism of the emulsion with fracture fluid have been experimentally investigated.

Materials and Methods:

The influences of fracture additives and components of crude oil on the stability of emulsion were investigated by bottle test and microscopic examination. The interfacial tension and modulus of dilation were explored by a spinning drop interfacial tension meter and an interface expansion rheometer, respectively.

Results:

The fracture additives played the key role on the emulsion stability. On one hand, the interface energy of oil-water was reduced by friction reducer (IFT was decreased from 24.0 mN/m to 1.9 mN/m), which was a favor for the formation of an emulsion. On the other hand, the dilational modulus of crude oil-water film was increased by hydroxypropyl guar and pH adjuster (Na2CO3) to form a viscoelastic film, which resulted in a highly stable emulsion.

Conclusion:

The residual fracture fluid accompanied by produced liquid resulted in a highly stable emulsion. The emulsion with fracture additives was difficult to be broken, which may affect the normal production of the oil field. A positive strategy such as developing demulsifier with high efficient should be put onto the schedule.
Aspectos ecológicos de una comunidad de anuros en un ambiente tropical estacional en Guanajuato, México
Authors: Leyte-Manrique Adrian , González-García Ruth Liliana E. , Quintero-Díaz Gustavo Ernesto , Alejo-Iturvide Francisco , Berriozabal-Islas Christian
Published: November 2018

En este estudio comparamos aspectos ecológicos del uso del microhábitat y periodo de actividad de una comunidad de anuros en cuatro tipos de vegetación (bosque tropical caducifolio, bosque de galera, matorral xerófilo y pastizal inducido) en un ambiente tropical estacional de la región suroeste del estado de Guanajuato, en el Área Natural Protegida Las Musas. Se registraron nueve especies de anuros, tres de sapos y seis de ranas, de las cuales la más abundante fue Lithobates neovolcanicus (152 individuos), y las menos abundantes, con un solo individuo Craugastor occidentalis y Spea multiplicata. Se caracterizaron 17 distintos tipos de microhábitats, con diferencias entre especies (H = 0.22; P = 0.01) en cuanto a su uso. Los tipos de vegetación con la mayor heterogeneidad de microhábitats fueron el bosque tropical y el bosque de galería, en comparación con el matorral xerófilo y pastizal. Las especies que usaron más microhábitats fueron L. neovolcanicus, Anaxyrus compactilis y Dryophytes eximius. El mayor solapamiento se registró entre A. compactilis e Incilius occidentalis con el 100 %; para I. occidentalis y D. arenicolor fue de 89 % y para I. occidentalis y L. neovolcanicus de 72 %. Los periodos de actividad más prolongados se registraron en A. compactilis (10:28 a 22:10 hrs) y L. neovolcanicus (10:40 a 22:20 hrs). Se encontró una relación positiva entre la temperatura corporal y la temperatura del microhábitat y la ambiental para A. compactilis, I. occidentalis, D. eximius, D. arenicolor, y L. neovolcanicus. La comunidad de anuros presente en el área de estudio puede diferenciarse en tres componentes eco-estructurales, conforme a sus hábitos; especies acuáticas, saxícolas-terrestres y arborícolas, determinados tanto por sus hábitos para la selección de microhábitats, como por sus periodos de actividad diarios. Consideramos que si bien, la heterogeneidad vegetal es importante en la distribución de las especies y disponibilidad de microhábitats, no es el principal factor en la selección y uso de los microhábitats por parte de las especies como se suponía. Sino que la selección y uso de los microhábitats y composición de la comunidad de anuros, se determinó por eventos conductuales que se manifiestan en los periodos de actividad y capacidad de termorregular de cada especie, como una respuesta de orden fisiológico a la influencia de la temperatura.
Guided Digital Cognitive Behavioral Program for Anxiety in Primary Care: Propensity-Matched Controlled Trial
Authors: Oser Megan , Wallace Meredith L , Solano Francis , Szigethy Eva Maria
Published: November 2018

Background

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the gold standard treatment for adult anxiety disorders but is often not readily available in a scalable manner in many clinical settings.

Objective

This study examines the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of a coach-facilitated digital cognitive behavioral program for anxious adults in primary care.

Methods

In an open trial, patients who screened positive for anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder-7 [GAD7] score ≥5) were offered the digital cognitive behavioral program (active group, n=593). Primary outcomes included anxiety, quality of life (QoL), and ambulatory medical use over 6 months. Intent-to-treat (ITT) and modified intent-to-treat (mITT) analyses were completed. Subsequently, we compared the outcomes of participants with those of a matched control group receiving primary care as usual (CAU; n=316).

Results

More than half of the patients downloaded the cognitive behavioral mobile app program and about 60% of these were considered engaged, which was defined as completion of ≥3 techniques. The active group demonstrated medium size effects on reducing anxiety symptoms (effect size d=0.44; P<.001) and improving mental health QoL (d=0.49; P<.001) and showed significantly improved physical health QoL (d=0.39; P=.002) and a decreased likelihood of high utilization of outpatient medical care (odds ratio=0.49; P<.001). The active group did not significantly outperform the CAU group in anxiety reduction or QoL improvement (d=0.20; P=.07). However, intent-to-treat analysis showed that the active group had a significantly lower likelihood of high utilization of outpatient medical care than the enhanced CAU group (P<.0001; odds ratio=0.09).

Conclusions

A coach-facilitated digital cognitive behavioral program prescribed in primary care is feasible and acceptable. Primary care patients prescribed a digital cognitive behavioral program for anxiety experienced significant improvements in anxiety symptoms, QoL, and reduced medical utilization. This effect was observed even among patients with chronic medical conditions and behavioral health comorbidities. Although the primary outcomes in the active group did not improve significantly more than the CAU group, health care utilization declined, and some secondary outcomes improved in participants who engaged in the program compared to the CAU group.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03186872; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03186872