bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure in Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
Authors: Maharjan Rima , Thapa BK , Chitrakar Neershobha , Pariyar Jitendra , Shrestha Isha , Joshi AP , Maharjan P , Neupane S
Published: December 2016

Aims: To evaluate the treatment outcome and acceptance of LEEP in precancerous cervical lesions.Methods: This is a descriptive study performed in Gynecology Department of Civil Service Hospital, from August 2014 - December 2015 in 28 cases that underwent LEEP forCIN. LEEP was performed as day care procedure under intravenous anesthesia and patient was sent home six hours after procedure. Follow up and further treatment was done after final histopathological reports.Results: Highest percentage ofCIN, 32.14% (9) was seen among 30-39 years age with 16 (57.14%) of parity three and more. 17 (60.71%) presented clinic with symptoms (lower abdominal, backpain, pervaginal discharge) while 11 (39.28%) were diagnosed from routine Pap test. Histopathology revealed four (14.28%)CIN1, eight (28.57%)CIN2, 11(39.28%)CIN3, two adenocarcinoma in situ, one of invasive squamous cell carcinoma, chronic cervicitis and atrophic change with no dysplasia. Margins were negative (satisfactory) in 20 (71.42%) and positive in eight (28.57%) with endocervical involvement in two that required second LEEP while one underwent radical hysterectomy for final diagnosis of invasive squamous cell carcinoma.Conclusions: Hysterectomy is a radical procedure for preinvasive cervical lesions that can be treated with simple procedure like LEEP that saves time and financial resources.
Vulvar Myiasis in Early Pregnancy
Authors: Jha Rajani , Upadhyaya Indira , Thapa M , Awal R
Published: December 2016

Myiasis is a parasitic infestation caused by the larvae of several fly species in various body wound and orifices. Vulvar myiasis is an extremely rare location. This is a case report of a 25 years old pregnant lady who presented with signs of burning sensation, itching and irritation  invulval area. Vulval inspection revealed an ulcer on mons pubis with induration and tiny maggots crawling over the ulcer. She was managed conservatively with daily dressing and manual removal of larva along with vaseline gauge packing and application of topical antimicrobials as well as prophylactic systemic antibiotics. The wound was left to heal by secondary intention. Patientwas discharged after seven days of hospital stay with advice on personal hygiene to avoid reinfection.
Leadership and culture for motivation: A comparative study in India
Authors: Parashar Carville Shuchi , Shaw Tania
Published: December 2016

Leadership capabilities have been acknowledged to generate better employee performance, implicitly endorsing the thought that higher work motivation may be an outcome. Similarly, the culture of an organization may well be linked to the level of employee organizational commitment. The current research attempts to comparatively analyze the interaction of these variables in the banking and financial services and education industry in India. The study makes an attempt to analyze responses from these industries, with the intent of drawing comparisons, establishing similarities and general correlation between the variables as well as study the variance between the collected samples. Furthermore, the relationship between organizational culture and employee commitment proves culture to be a predictor of commitment, while retaining the difference between the two groups, on the dimensions of the variables. This analysis has been carried out in India previously in other sectors, and is valuable for these industries predicting exponential growth.
Apolipoprotein E4 Elicits Lysosomal Cathepsin D Release, Decreased Thioredoxin-1 Levels, and Apoptosis
Authors: Persson Torbjörn , Lattanzio Francesca , Calvo-Garrido Javier , Rimondini Roberto , Rubio-Rodrigo Marta , Sundström Erik , Maioli Silvia , Sandebring-Matton Anna , Cedazo-Mínguez Ángel
Published: December 2016

The major genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4), has been suggested to have detrimental effects on neurons, including direct toxicity via apoptosis. Thioredoxin-1 (Trx1) is an endogenous antioxidant protein important for redox regulation and participates in the regulation of apoptosis through the inhibition of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1 (Ask-1). In this study, we have investigated the effects of ApoE on Trx1 in the brain. Our results showed that the protein levels of Trx1 were reduced in the hippocampus of ApoE4 targeted replacement (TR) mice compared to ApoE3 TR mice. The reduction was also seen in vitro after treatment of both human primary cortical neurons and neuroblastoma cells with human recombinant ApoE4 (rApoE4). Furthermore, ApoE4 caused a disruption of lysosomal integrity and a shift in the localization of Cathepsin D, an enzyme known to degrade Trx1. ApoE4 treatment induced in addition apoptosis through translocation of Death-domain associated protein-6 (Daxx) from the nucleus to the cytosol, suggesting an activation of the Ask-1 pathway. This toxicity was prevented by overexpression of Trx1 and other endogenous Ask-1 inhibitors. Our data suggests that down-regulation of Trx1 is involved in the toxicity caused by ApoE4. An activated ASK-1 pathway might indeed make cells more vulnerable to other insults such as amyloid-β, which could partially explain the mechanism behind the strongest genetic risk factor for AD.
Apolipoprotein A1 in Cerebrospinal Fluid and Plasma and Progression to Alzheimer’s Disease in Non-Demented Elderly
Authors: Slot Rosalinde E.R. , Van Harten Argonde C. , Kester Maartje I. , Jongbloed Wesley , Bouwman Femke H. , Teunissen Charlotte E. , Scheltens Philip , Veerhuis Robert , van der Flier Wiesje M.
Published: December 2016

Background: HDL-cholesterol transporter Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) holds neuroprotective properties, such as inhibition of amyloid-β aggregation. Low plasma ApoA1 concentrations are associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Little is known about ApoA1 levels in the pre-dementia stages of AD.

Objective: To investigate associations between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma ApoA1 levels and clinical progression toward AD in non-demented elderly.

Methods: From the Amsterdam Dementia Cohort, we included 429 non-demented elderly with subjective cognitive decline (SCD; n = 206, 61±9 years, Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) 28±2) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI; n = 223, 67±8 years, MMSE 27±2), with a mean follow-up of 2.5±1.6 years. We used Cox proportional hazard models to investigate relations between CSF and plasma ApoA1 concentrations and clinical progression, defined as progression to MCI or AD for SCD, and progression to AD for MCI. Analyses were adjusted for age, gender, MMSE, and plasma cholesterol levels. Analyses were stratified for diagnosis and APOE ɛ4 carriership.

Results: 117 patients (27%) showed clinical progression. One standard deviation increase of CSF ApoA1 was associated with a 30% increased risk of clinical progression (hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI)  = 1.3(1.0–1.6)). The effect appeared to be attributable to the APOE ɛ4 carriers with SCD (HR 3.3(1.0–10.9)). Lower plasma ApoA1 levels were associated with an increased risk of clinical progression in APOE ɛ4 carriers with SCD (HR 5.0(1.3–18.9)).

Conclusion: Higher CSF and lower plasma ApoA1 levels were associated with an increased risk of clinical progression in APOE ɛ4 carriers with SCD; suggesting that ApoA1 may be involved in the earliest stages of AD.
Investigation on the Role of BDNF in the Benefits of Blueberry Extracts for the Improvement of Learning and Memory in Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model
Authors: Tan Long , Yang Hongpeng , Pang Wei , Li Haiqiang , Liu Wei , Sun Shoudan , Song Nan , Zhang Wanqi , Jiang Yugang
Published: December 2016

Background: Blueberry (BB) can provide a wide range of antioxidant benefits for AD. There is evidence that BB extracts could improve brain functions. However, the details are still unknown.

Objective: In the present study, we aimed to investigate the possible mechanism involved in the improvement of learning and memory capacity from BB extracts in AD.

Methods: APP/PS1 transgenic mice were fed BB extracts for 16 weeks. The capacity of learning and memory was assessed by Morris water maze (MWM) test, and long-term potentiation (LTP) was determined to evaluate hippocampal neuronal plasticity at the end of administration. Pathological changes in the brain were observed, and the expressions of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK1/2) were determined to explore the mechanism of BB extract-induced benefits.

Results: AD mice exhibited more difficulties to learn and remember the exact position of the platform in the MWM test. The data showed that AD mice lacked effective learning in the platform search. In contrast, AD mice exhibited better performance both in the training phase and probe test of MWM after the BB treatment. Moreover, LTP was enhanced and the neuron loss was alleviated with BB treatment, while we did not find any obvious effect on the elimination of amyloid-β. In the AD mice, the expression of ERK1/2 was significantly increased ( p < 0.05), while the level of BDNF was decreased ( p < 0.05).

Conclusions: BB treatment was beneficial for the improvement of learning and memory of AD, and these effects might be related to the regulation of BDNF.
Using Drugs as Molecular Probes: A Computational Chemical Biology Approach in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Emon Mohammad Asif Emran Khan , Kodamullil Alpha Tom , Karki Reagon , Younesi Erfan , Hofmann-Apitius Martin
Published: December 2016

Neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease are complex to tackle because of the complexity of the brain, both in structure and function. Such complexity is reflected by the involvement of various brain regions and multiple pathways in the etiology of neurodegenerative diseases that render single drug target approaches ineffective. Particularly in the area of neurodegeneration, attention has been drawn to repurposing existing drugs with proven efficacy and safety profiles. However, there is a lack of systematic analysis of the brain chemical space to predict the feasibility of repurposing strategies. Using a mechanism-based, drug-target interaction modeling approach, we have identified promising drug candidates for repositioning. Mechanistic cause-and-effect models consolidate relevant prior knowledge on drugs, targets, and pathways from the scientific literature and integrate insights derived from experimental data. We demonstrate the power of this approach by predicting two repositioning candidates for Alzheimer’s disease and one for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
A Preliminary Study on the Feasibility of Using a Virtual Reality Cognitive Training Application for Remote Detection of Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Zygouris Stelios , Ntovas Konstantinos , Giakoumis Dimitrios , Votis Konstantinos , Doumpoulakis Stefanos , Segkouli Sofia , Karagiannidis Charalampos , Tzovaras Dimitrios , Tsolaki Magda
Published: December 2016

Background: It has been demonstrated that virtual reality (VR) applications can be used for the detection of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Objective: The aim of this study is to provide a preliminary investigation on whether a VR cognitive training application can be used to detect MCI in persons using the application at home without the help of an examiner.

Methods: Two groups, one of healthy older adults ( n = 6) and one of MCI patients ( n = 6) were recruited from Thessaloniki day centers for cognitive disorders and provided with a tablet PC with custom software enabling the self-administration of the Virtual Super Market (VSM) cognitive training exercise. The average performance (from 20 administrations of the exercise) of the two groups was compared and was also correlated with performance in established neuropsychological tests.

Results: Average performance in terms of duration to complete the given exercise differed significantly between healthy(μ  = 247.41 s/ sd = 89.006) and MCI (μ= 454.52 s/ sd = 177.604) groups, yielding a correct classification rate of 91.8% with a sensitivity and specificity of 94% and 89% respectively for MCI detection. Average performance also correlated significantly with performance in Functional Cognitive Assessment Scale (FUCAS), Test of Everyday Attention (TEA), and Rey Osterrieth Complex Figure test (ROCFT).

Discussion: The VR application exhibited very high accuracy in detecting MCI while all participants were able to operate the tablet and application on their own. Diagnostic accuracy was improved compared to a previous study using data from only one administration of the exercise. The results of the present study suggest that remote MCI detection through VR applications can be feasible.
Consecutive Analysis of BACE1 Function on Developing and Developed Neuronal Cells
Authors: Kamikubo Yuji , Takasugi Nobumasa , Niisato Kazue , Hashimoto Yoshie , Sakurai Takashi
Published: December 2016

The amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP) is cleaved by a transmembrane protease termed β-site AβPP cleavage enzyme (BACE1), which is being explored as a target for therapy and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although genetic deletion of BACE1 results in abolished amyloid pathology in AD model mice, it also results in neurodevelopmental phenotypes such as hypomyelination and synaptic loss, observed in schizophrenia and autism-like phenotype. These lines of evidence indicate that the inhibition of BACE1 causes adverse side effects during the neurodevelopmental stage. However, the effects of the inhibition of BACE1 activity on already developed neurons remain unclear. Here, we utilized hippocampal slice cultures as an ex vivo model that enabled continuous and long-term analysis for the effect of BACE1 inhibition on neuronal circuits and synapses. Temporal changes in synaptic proteins in hippocampal slices indicated acute synaptic loss, followed by synapse formation and maintenance phases. Long-term BACE1 inhibition in the neurodevelopmental stage caused the loss of synaptic proteins but failed to alter synaptic proteins in the already developed maintenance stage. These data indicate that BACE1 function on synapses is dependent on synaptic developmental stages, and our study provides a useful model to observe the long-term effect of BACE1 activity in the brain, and to evaluate adverse effects of BACE inhibitors.
The Citicholinage Study: Citicoline Plus Cholinesterase Inhibitors in Aged Patients Affected with Alzheimer’s Disease Study
Authors: Gareri Pietro , Castagna Alberto , Cotroneo Antonino Maria , Putignano Daria , Conforti Raffaele , Santamaria Francesco , Marino Saverio , Putignano Salvatore
Published: December 2016

Background: Citicoline can have beneficial effects both in degenerative and in vascular cognitive decline in a variety of ways (apoptosis inhibition, neuroplasticity potentiation, phospholipid, and acetylcholine (ACh) synthesis). Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) have been used for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). When co-administered with cholinergic precursors, they are able to increase the intrasynaptic levels of ACh more than when the single drugs given alone.

Objective: The aim of the present study was to show the effectiveness of oral citicoline plus AChEIs in patients affected with AD.

Methods: This was a retrospective multi-centric case-control study, involving seven Centers for Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Italy, on 448 consecutive patients aged 65 years old or older affected with AD. 197 patients were treated with an AChEI while 251 were treated with an AchEI + citicoline 1000 mg/day given orally. Cognitive functions were assessed by MMSE, daily life functions by ADL and IADL, behavioral symptoms by NPI, comorbidities by CIRS, and mood by GDS-short form. Tests were administered at baseline (T0), after 3 (T1), and 9 months (T2). The primary outcomes were effects of combined administration versus AChEIs given alone on cognitive functions assessed by MMSE. The secondary outcomes were possible side effects or adverse events of combination therapy versus AChEIs alone.

Results: Patients treated with citicoline plus an AChEI showed a statistically significant increase in MMSE between T0 and T1 (16.88±3.38 versus 17.62±3.64; p = 0.000) and between T1 and T2 (17.62±3.64 versus 17.89±3.54; p = 0.000).

Conclusion: The present study encourages the role of combined administration in disease management by slowing disease progression.
Investigations into Retinal Pathology in the Early Stages of a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chidlow Glyn , Wood John P.M. , Manavis Jim , Finnie John , Casson Robert J.
Published: December 2016

There is increasing recognition that visual performance is impaired in early stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD); however, no consensus exists as to the mechanisms underlying this visual dysfunction, in particular regarding the timing, nature, and extent of retinal versus cortical pathology. If retinal pathology presents sufficiently early, it offers great potential as a source of novel biomarkers for disease diagnosis. The current project utilized an array of immunochemical and molecular tools to perform a characterization of retinal pathology in the early stages of disease progression using a well-validated mouse model of AD (APPSWE/PS1 ΔE9). Analytical endpoints included examination of aberrant amyloid and tau in the retina, quantification of any neuronal degeneration, delineation of cellular stress responses of neurons and particularly glial cells, and investigation of oxidative stress. Brain, eyes, and optic nerves were taken from transgenic and wild-type mice of 3 to 12 months of age and processed for immunohistochemistry, qPCR, or western immunoblotting. The results revealed robust expression of the human APP transgene in the retinas of transgenic mice, but a lack of identifiable retinal pathology during the period when amyloid deposits were dramatically escalating in the brain. We were unable to demonstrate the presence of amyloid plaques, dystrophic neurites, neuronal loss, macro- or micro-gliosis, aberrant cell cycle re-entry, oxidative stress, tau hyperphosphorylation, or upregulations of proinflammatory cytokines or stress signaling molecules in the retina. The overall results do not support the hypothesis that detectable retinal pathology occurs concurrently with escalating amyloid deposition in the brains of APPSWE/PS1 ΔE9 mice.
Psychotropic Polypharmacy in Patients with Dementia: Prevalence and Predictors
Authors: Nørgaard Ane , Jensen-Dahm Christina , Gasse Christiane , Hansen Elsebet Steno , Waldemar Gunhild
Published: December 2016

Background: Antipsychotics and other psychotropics are frequently used to treat neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with dementia, even though the evidence for effect is limited. Concerns have been raised about the safety of antipsychotics, but concomitant use of multiple psychotropic drug classes (psychotropic polypharmacy) may also pose a risk for patients.

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and predictors associated with use of psychotropic polypharmacy in patients with dementia.

Methods: A population-based study using nationwide registers. Patients with dementia were identified among all Danish residents ≥65 years on January 1, 2012. Data on prescriptions and comorbidity was included in the analysis. Overlapping prescriptions for different psychotropic drug classes were used to determine psychotropic polypharmacy. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate factors independently associated with the prescription of other psychotropic drug classes among patients already using antipsychotics.

Results: Among all patients registered with dementia (34,553), 25.3% (8,728) used ≥2 psychotropic drugs. Among patients treated with antipsychotics 75.8% (5,403) used at least one other psychotropic drug during the antipsychotic treatment period. Nursing home residency, number of non-psychotropic medications used in 2011, and prior psychiatric diagnosis were associated with psychotropic polypharmacy among antipsychotic drug users. The most frequent combination of psychotropic drugs was antipsychotics and antidepressants.

Conclusion: Concomitant use of psychotropic drugs was frequent in dementia patients. Patients living in nursing homes had the highest risk of receiving a combination of antipsychotics and other psychotropic drugs. Concomitant use of psychotropics may cause adverse events, and potential consequences for patients’ safety call for further investigation.
Frontal Lobe Function Correlates with One-Year Incidence of Urinary Incontinence in Elderly with Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Sugimoto Taiki , Yoshida Masaki , Ono Rei , Murata Shunsuke , Saji Naoki , Niida Shumpei , Toba Kenji , Sakurai Takashi
Published: December 2016

Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) is frequently observed in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although previous works highlight the association between frontal lobe-related function and UI, causal relationship is unclear.

Objects: To clarify the longitudinal association between frontal lobe function and the incidence of UI at 1 year in patients with AD.

Methods: The subjects were 215 continent AD patients who attended the Memory Clinic of the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology of Japan during the period from March 2011 to December 2014. The absence or presence of UI was operationally assigned by the dementia behavior disturbance scale subscale, which was completed by the patients’ caregivers. Frontal lobe function was assessed using the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB). Other confounding factors including demographic data, cognitive status, vitality, mood, physical performance, and use of medication (cholinesterase inhibitors, calcium channel blockers [CCBs], diuretics, alpha blockers and anticholinergic drugs) were assessed.

Results: During 1-year follow up (mean: 377.4±83.7 days), the incidence of UI was 12.1% ( n = 26). Patients with UI had significantly lower FAB performance at baseline (no UI versus UI = 9.3±2.8 versus 7.8±2.7). In multivariate analysis, stepwise logistic regression analysis demonstrated that FAB (odds ratio [OR] = 0.79, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.66–0.94) and the use of CCB (OR = 2.72, 95% CI = 1.09–6.77) were significantly associated with UI at 1 year.

Conclusion: The results of study indicate that frontal lobe dysfunction is predictor for UI in patients with AD.
Hypertension in Pregnancy Still Remains a Serious Complication Causing Severe Morbidity and Mortality of Mother
Authors: Simsek Arife , Uludag Seyfettin , Benian Ali , Tuten Abdullah
Published: December 2016

Objective(s): The aim of this study is to evaluate frequency and nature of maternal deaths and maternal near-miss cases in a tertiary care hospital.Materials and Methods: A retrospective examination was conducted on records of the16.612 women who delivered in a tertiary care center, over a ten-year period (1997-2006). The flow chart recommended by Say et al was used in the analysis of the maternal near-miss cases.Results: The ratios of mortality related with pregnancy, maternal mortality and maternal nearmiss were 68.11/100.000, 61.29/100.000 and 17.09/1000, respectively. The ratio of maternal near- miss to maternal mortality was 27.8 and the mortality index was 3.46%. Hypertensive disorders were the leading cause of maternal deaths and maternal near-miss events.Conclusion: Hypertensive disorders were still leading cause of maternal deaths and maternal near-miss events.Absence of antenatal care and disrupted referral chains were major problems.Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2015; Vol. 30(2) : 92-97
International News Vol.30(2)
Authors: Chowdhury Saleha Begum
Published: December 2016

Abstract not availableBangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2015; Vol. 30(2) : 124
The Information Recovery Problem
Authors: Baccetti Valentina , Husain Viqar , Terno Daniel
Published: December 2016

The issue of unitary evolution during creation and evaporation of a black hole remains controversial. We argue that some prominent cures are more troubling than the disease, demonstrate that their central element—forming of the event horizon before the evaporation begins—is not necessarily true, and describe a fully coupled matter-gravity system which is manifestly unitary.
Analysis on Filling Ratio and Shield Supporting Pressure for Overburden Movement Control in Coal Mining with Compacted Backfilling
Authors: Huang Yanli , Li Junmeng , Song Tianqi , Kong Guoqiang , Li Meng
Published: December 2016

Since the weight of overburden is sustained by both the backfill body and the unmined solid coal in coal mining with compacted backfilling (CMCB) panels, the stress and deformation characteristics of the surrounding rocks in coal mining are radically changed. The overburden movement control mechanism by coordinating with backfill body and shield in CMCB was studied systematically in this paper. Based on the analysis of deformational and structural characteristics of surrounding rock in CMCB panels, the methods of theoretical analysis, numerical simulation and engineering test are employed. The results show that the fracture of the main roof is mainly controlled by the filling ratio φ and is non-correlated to the shield supporting pressure p. However, p has a significant control effect on the deflection of roof within the shield canopy length, and adversely affects the filling ratio. With the increase of the filling ratio of the gob, the maximum sagging of the immediate and the main roofs, the peak front and the influence range of the abutment pressures are gradually reduced. Correspondingly, the stable period of internal pressure of backfill body in the gob is shortened. Engineering practice shows that the sagging of the gob roof, the distribution of the abutment pressure, the distribution of the internal pressure in the backfill body, and the ground surface sagging results obtained by the in-situ measurement are approximately corresponding to the theoretical analysis and numerical simulation results.
Analysis of Barriers to Development of Malagasy Horticultural Microenterprises in Madagascar
Authors: Ramanankonenana Tamby , Razafiarijaona Jules , Ramananarivo Sylvain , Ramananarivo Romaine
Published: December 2016

The malagasy rural environment and the development of agricultural microenterprises are closely linked. For Ambalavao Atsimondrano located in the suburban area of Antananarivo, Madagascar, the horticultural chain appears as a buoyant sector; many rural or urban households are dependent upon it. Despite the reputation of the region in this field and support from different organizations, Rural Microenterprises (RMEs) encounter problems in their development. This study highlights the factors blocking entrepreneurial development including education of horticultural entrepreneurs and their ability to deal with complex situations. The aim of the study was to identify the factors affecting the growth of RMEs. A focus group on 33 small farmers considered as RMEs was conducted taking into account their individual characteristics. A typology and value chain analysis resulted in their classification and in comprehension of their empowerment in management. The results indicated that there were 3 types of entrepreneurs or promoters: the experienced traditional (36%), the educated young (33%), and the professional young (31%). Ishikawa diagrams highlight the problems related to entrepreneurial development in funding and information systems. Our conclusions insist on the necessity of improving communications strategies among microentrepreneurs, guidance for entering the market, and professionalizing the horticultural trade, while emphasizing the importance of cooperation between producers.
Hydraulic Performance of Horticultural Substrates—2. Development of an Evaluation Framework
Authors: Schindler Uwe , Müller Lothar
Published: December 2016

Sustainable, environmentally friendly and resource-saving water and nutrient management in horticulture requires knowledge of the hydraulic suitability of horticultural substrates for each specific application. The aim of this study was to develop methods and a rating framework to assess the hydraulic performance of horticultural substrates. The hydraulic criteria related to high-quality horticultural substrates were defined as the amount of easily plant-available water (EAW) in the tension range between 10 and 100 hPa, the air capacity and the height of capillary rise. Limiting factors could be water repellency effects and shrinkage. The rating framework consisted of 5 classes between non-satisfactory and very good. The assessment of the hydraulic performance was split for the cultivation into 10-, 20-, and 30-cm-high containers. It was tested on 18 commercial substrates. More than 70% of the tested substrates revealed scores between very good and good. About 30% were evaluated as medium or satisfactory. The most critical aspect was the low air capacity in shallow containers. Shrinkage and water repellency sometimes strongly diminished the score. Both the measurement methods for quantifying substrate hydraulic properties and the evaluation procedure proved applicable. The impact of different ingredients and the composition of substrates of their hydraulic performance should be statistically analysed in further studies.
Hydraulic Performance of Horticultural Substrates—3. Impact of Substrate Composition and Ingredients
Authors: Schindler Uwe , Lischeid Gunnar , Müller Lothar
Published: December 2016

Horticultural substrates, also referred to as growing media, potting soils and gardening or soilless substrates, are widely used as a basis for vegetable and flower production in horticulture. They are created as a composition of different ingredients (bog peat, organic residuals, coir, perlite and other components). Hydraulic properties such as water storage capacity, air capacity, shrinkage behaviour, wettability or hydraulic conductivity are important variables for a comprehensive evaluation of the performance of horticultural substrates. A set of 36 commercial potting soils and substrates was selected and the hydraulic properties (water retention curve, unsaturated hydraulic conductivity function, capillary rise and shrinkage) were measured using the extended evaporation method (EEM). Additionally, the water drop penetration time was determined as a measure of wettability. The hydraulic performance of the horticultural substrates was evaluated. Generally, bog peat is the main component of horticultural substrates. Additionally, coir (raw coconut fibre), bark, different composts and mineral ingredients such as perlite, pumice, vermiculite, sand and others are used. The growing medium with the best hydraulic performance in this study revealed substrates composed of bog peat with added coir, perlite and organic residuals. Mineral ingredients in general decreased the content of easily available water but did not exhibit any significant effect on the other properties studied. However, the risk of a lack of air can be increased by the addition of clay. The presence of perlite had positive effects on the air content and the re-wettability. The presence of organic materials had significant and detrimental effects on the height of the capillary rise. We also found that some products declared as preferable for use in containers were better suited as substrates for bed cultivation. However, a comprehensive evaluation of the eligibility of horticultural substrates in horticulture requires not only hydraulic measurements but also growing experiments and an assessment of their chemical, biological and technological suitability.
Regionalization of Maize Responses to Climate Change Scenarios, N Use Efficiency and Adaptation Strategies
Authors: Eulenstein Frank , Lana Marcos , Luis Schlindwein Sandro , Sheudzhen Askhad , Tauscke Marion , Behrendt Axel , Guevara Edgardo , Meira Santiago
Published: December 2016

As with any other crop, maize yield is a response to environmental factors such as soil, weather, and management. In a context of climate change, understanding responses is crucial to determine mitigation and adaptation strategies. Crop models are an effective tool to address this. The objective was to present a procedure to assess the impacts of climate scenarios on maize N use efficiency and yield, with the effect of cultivar (n = 2) and planting date (n = 5) as adaptation strategies. The study region was Santa Catarina, Brazil, where maize is cultivated on more than 800,000 ha (average yield: 4.63 t·ha−1). Surveying and mapping of crop land was done using satellite data, allowing the coupling of weather and 253 complete soil profiles in single polygons (n = 4135). A Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) crop model was calibrated and validated using field data (2004–2010 observations). Weather scenarios generated by Regional Climatic Models (RCMs) were selected according their capability of reproducing observed weather. Simulations for the 2012–2040 period (437 ppm CO2) showed that without adaptation strategies maize production could be reduced by 12.5%. By only using the best cultivar for each polygon (combination of soil + weather), the total production was increased by 6%; when using both adaptation strategies—cultivar and best planting date—the total production was increase by 15%. The modelling process indicated that the N use efficiency increment ranged from 1%–3% (mostly due to CO2 increment, but also due to intrinsic soil properties and leaching occurrence). This analysis showed that N use efficiency rises in high CO2 scenarios, so that crop cultivar and planting date are effective tools to mitigate deleterious effects of climate change, supporting energy crops in the study region.
Effect of Bio-Organic and Inorganic Nutrient Sources on Growth and Flower Production of African Marigold
Authors: Sharma Gaurav , Sahu Naresh , Shukla Neeraj
Published: December 2016

African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) is one of the most important flower crops grown commercially throughout India as a loose flower for worshipping, garland making, and garden display. The productivity and quality of flowers is greatly influenced by the quantity and source of nutrients. At present, these nutrients are primarily supplied through chemical fertilizers. The indiscriminate use and complete reliance on the use of chemical fertilizers has also led to deterioration of soil health, thereby affecting sustainable flower production. Keeping these points in view, a field experiment was conducted on African marigold cv. “Orange Culcuttia” at the Horticultural Research Farm, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications and twelve treatment combinations comprised of bio-organics (Cow Urine and Vermicompost), bio-fertilizers (Azospirillum and Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria) and NPK fertilizers. Application of Azospirillum + Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria + 5% Cow Urine + 50% recommended dose of “N” through Vermicompost + 50% recommended dose of NPK fertilizer was most effective in increasing vegetative growth parameters, such as plant height, number of branches, plant spread, as well as flower yield parameters like number of flowers, flower diameter, fresh and dry weight of flowers, flower yield, flowering duration, shelf life, and it also had the maximum benefit:cost ratio. Thus, use of inorganic fertilizers conjointly with bio-fertilizers and organic manures resulted in excellent vegetative growth and flower yield attributes in African marigold.
Use of Nondestructive Devices to Support Pre- and Postharvest Fruit Management
Authors: Costa Guglielmo , Rocchi Lorenzo , Farneti Brian , Busatto Nicola , Spinelli Francesco , Vidoni Serena
Published: December 2016

Fruit quality is greatly affected by the ripening stage at harvest. In order to preserve quality traits, increase product marketability, and extend both the storage time and the shelf life, it is crucial to tailor postharvest strategies to ripening and physiological stages, and these need to be determined precisely. Surveying instruments working with modern technologies such as visible spectrometry can be precise and effective in assessing ripening stage and in grouping fruit in homogeneous classes. This paper reviews results using original nondestructive devices developed at the University of Bologna to define the fruit ripening of several fruit species through a new index (Index of Absorbance Difference (IAD)) to compare relationships among fruit ripening stage, fruit quality, and postharvest life. The devices defining the IAD can be used in the field (by the Difference Absorbance (DA)-Meter), at the packinghouse (with the DA-head, a stationary device), and at the cold storage level (with the DA Fruit Logger (DAFL)).
Improvement of Postharvest Quality of Asian Pear Fruits by Foliar Application of Boron and Calcium
Authors: Khalaj Kobra , Ahmadi Nima , Souri Mohammad
Published: December 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of foliar application of boron and calcium on postharvest storage characteristics of Asian pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) fruit. This experiment was carried out in the experimental orchard of Asian pear at Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran. The treatments were two concentrations of boric acid (0% and 0.5%) and three concentrations of calcium chloride (0%, 0.5%, and 0.7%) which were sprayed on trees during the growing season. The data showed that foliar application of these two elements resulted in improvement in physicochemical characteristics of the pear fruit, particularly fruit firmness and polyphenol oxidase activity. At harvest, fruit firmness and total soluble solids (TSS) were significantly improved by B and Ca application, compared to control fruit. Although fruit firmness decreased during 3 months of cold storage, fruit which received higher rates of Ca and B retained more firmness. During the storage period, total phenolic content was significantly reduced in control fruit compared to fruit which were sprayed with Ca and/or B. The highest level of polyphenol oxidase activity was in B and Ca sprayed fruit and the lowest was in control fruit. In general, foliar application of Ca and B resulted in improvement of postharvest characteristics of Asian pear fruit and reduced internal browning symptoms. Thus, application of Ca and B could be recommended as treatments for increasing postharvest life of Asian pear in similar semi-arid climates.
Evaluation of Some Postharvest Storage Approaches on Essential Oil Characteristics of Fresh Organic Damask Rose (Rosa damascena Mill.) Flowers
Authors: Mirzaei Maryam , Ahmadi Nima , Sefidkon Fatemeh , Shojaeiyan Abdolali , Mazaheri Alireza
Published: December 2016

Damask rose (Rosa damascena Mill.) is an economically important species in the Rosaceae family for rose oil and rose water production, obtained exclusively from freshly-gathered Damask rose flowers. Iran is famous for producing organic rose essential oil, mainly used in the perfume industry and for folk medicines due to its healing properties. Due to their high perishability, postharvest handling of the flowers prior to oil extraction are a key point in rose essential oil production. In this study, postharvest handling conditions of Damask rose flowers were evaluated for the effect on yield and quality of the extracted essential oils. Organically-grown flowers were stored under different conditions included packaging in polyethylene bags and immersing into water containers, and then held at 25 ± 2 °C or 4 ± 1 °C for 1, 2, or 3 days. Identification of the chemical composition of the essential oils was performed by GC and GC/MS. The results indicated that petal storage in water resulted in the highest essential oil content and quality, and storage in polyethylene bags resulted in the greatest loss, compared to those from unstored petals. The results provide a reference for interested groups such as producers and consumers who are concerned about Damask rose flower storage and subsequent oil extraction.
A Preliminary Comparison of Antioxidants of Tomato Fruit Grown Under Organic and Conventional Systems
Authors: Uthairatanakij Apiradee , Aiamla-or Sukanya , Jitareerat Pongphen , Maneenoi Ashariya
Published: December 2016

Organic farming is rapidly growing due to its perceived potential for producing higher nutritional quality. However, studies of organically- and conventionally-grown crops have not always shown differences between the systems. The objective of this research was to compare the antioxidant activities of organically-grown tomato to those from a conventional production system during postharvest cold storage. “Tub Tim Dang” tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fruit were harvested at the breaker stage of maturity from both organic and conventional farms. Fruit were cold-stored at 10 °C for 20 days, and samples were collected at intervals to measure the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities, and total antioxidant activity by the 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The activities of SOD, CAT and APX of organic tomato fruit did not differ from those of conventional fruit during cold storage. In addition, there was no effect of production system on FRAP activity. In contrast, DPPH activity of organic tomato fruit was lower than conventional fruit through 10 days of cold storage, but it was higher at 15 and 20 days. These results indicated that organic production did not have a significant effects on these antioxidant traits of tomato.
A Brief Report: Lessons Learned and Preliminary Findings of Progreso en Salud, an HIV Risk Reduction Intervention for Latina Seasonal Farmworkers
Authors: Kanamori Mariano , De La Rosa Mario , Diez Stephanie , Weissman Jessica , Trepka Mary , Sneij Alicia , Schmidt Peter , Rojas Patria
Published: December 2016

Throughout the past decade, HIV rates in Florida—particularly South Florida, where many Latina seasonal farmworkers reside and work—have ranked among the highest in the nation. In this brief report, we delineate important lessons learned and preliminary findings from the implementation of the HIV prevention intervention Progreso en Salud (Progress in Health). Among the 114 Latina seasonal farmworker participants, there were significant increases from baseline to 6-month follow-up in the percentages of overall condom use, HIV testing, HIV/AIDS-related communications with friends, HIV knowledge, condom use self-efficacy, and correct use of condoms. Lessons learned from this study can be used to inform future HIV intervention strategies to improve the adoption and maintenance of HIV risk reduction behaviors among high-risk Latina seasonal workers and other high-risk underserved populations. Future research is needed to support our findings.
Gold Mining in Ecuador: A Cross-Sectional Assessment of Mercury in Urine and Medical Symptoms in Miners from Portovelo/Zaruma
Authors: Schutzmeier Paul , Berger Ursula , Bose-O’Reilly Stephan
Published: December 2016

Mercury is a toxic metal and is used in small scale gold mining. In Portovelo, Ecuador, mercury has been an environmental and health problem for decades. The target of this study was to assess the mercury concentration in the urine of miners from Portovelo/Zaruma to establish a prevalence of high values. Eight hundred and sixty-five (865) urine samples were collected and analysed for their mercury content, using cold vapor atom absorption spectroscopy. The prevalence of high mercury values (>25 μg/L) was estimated. Forty-four (44) miners with mercury levels >15 μg/L filled in a questionnaire for characteristics and possible confounders, and were examined for intoxication symptoms to establish the ten points medical score sum. The median urine value was 1.8 μg/L; 78.3% of miners were below 7 μg/L and were not at risk of an intoxication, whereas 5.9% of miners exceeded the limit of 25 μg/L and were probable to experience intoxication symptoms. The medical score sum had a range of 2 to 8 points with a median of 6. The low prevalence of high mercury concentrations shows that the politics and techniques to eliminate the use of mercury are being successfully implemented. Further studies are needed to identify factors enabling this process.
Facile Synthesis for Benzo-1,4-Oxazepine Derivatives by Tandem Transformation of C-N Coupling/C-H Carbonylation
Authors: Zhao Xiaojia , Zhang Jiong , Zheng Zeqin , Xu Runsheng
Published: December 2016

A tandem transformation of C-N coupling/C-H carbonylation has been developed for the synthesis of benzo-1,4-oxazepine pharmaceutically derivatives. Notably, this reaction was accomplished by various phenylamine with ally halides under carbon dioxide atmosphere employing 2-(2-dimethylamino-vinyl)-1H-inden-1-olcatalyzed. Furthermore, under the optimized conditions, various benzo-1,4-oxazepine derivatives were obtained in good yields. Finally, a plausible CuI/CuIII mechanism of C-N coupling/C-H carbonylation transformation was proposed.
The Role of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Heart Failure: A Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Wang Chunbin , Xiong Bo , Huang Jing
Published: December 2016

Many new clinical trials about the effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in heart failure (HF) patients have shown inconsistent results. Therefore, a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) was performed to determine the benefits of omega-3 PUFAs in HF patients. Articles were obtained from PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. RCTs comparing omega-3 PUFAs with placebo for HF were included. Two reviewers independently extracted the data from the selected publications. The I2 statistic was used to assess heterogeneity. The pooled mean difference and associated 95% confidence intervals were calculated, and a fixed or random-effects model was used for the meta-analysis. A total of nine RCTs involving 800 patients were eligible for inclusion. Compared with patients taking placebo, HF patients who received omega-3 PUFAs experienced decreased brain natriuretic peptide levels and serum norepinephrine levels. Although the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and clinical outcomes (Tei index, peak oxygen consumption) did not improve, subgroup analysis showed that the LVEF increased in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients. Overall, omega-3 PUFA supplements might be beneficial in HF patients, especially in DCM patients, but further studies are needed to confirm these benefits.
Doxorubicin Delivery Using pH and Redox Dual-Responsive Hollow Nanocapsules with a Cationic Electrostatic Barrier
Authors: Teranishi Ryoma , Matsuki Ryota , Yuba Eiji , Harada Atsushi , Kono Kenji
Published: December 2016

For the delivery of doxorubicin (DOX), pH and redox dual responsive hollow nanocapsules were prepared through the stabilization of polymer vesicles, which spontaneously formed from polyamidoamine dendron-poly(l-lysine) (PAMAM dendron-PLL), by the introduction of disulfide (SS) bonds between PLLs. The SS-bonded nanocapsules exhibited a very slow release of DOX under an extracellular environment because the cationic PLL membrane acted as an electrostatic barrier against the protonated DOX molecules. However, increasing the glutathione concentration to the intracellular level facilitated the immediate release of DOX through the collapse of nanocapsules by the spontaneous cleavage of SS bonds. SS-bonded nanocapsules also escaped from the endosome by the buffering effect of PAMAM dendrons, and DOX delivery into the cytoplasm was achieved. Furthermore, DOX molecules delivered by SS-bonded nanocapsules exhibited an effective in vitro anticancer effect to HeLa cells.