bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of Intraocular Lens Power Calculation Formulas for Highly Myopic Eyes
Authors: Zhang Yichi , Liang Xiao Ying , Liu Shu , Lee Jacky W. Y. , Bhaskar Srinivasan , Lam Dennis S. C.
Published: March 2016

Purpose.To evaluate and compare the accuracy of different intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas for eyes with an axial length (AL) greater than 26.00 mm.Methods.This study reviewed 407 eyes of 219 patients with AL longer than 26.0 mm. The refractive prediction errors of IOL power calculation formulas (SRK/T, Haigis, Holladay, Hoffer Q, and Barrett Universal II) using User Group for Laser Interference Biometry (ULIB) constants were evaluated and compared.Results.One hundred seventy-one eyes were enrolled. The Barrett Universal II formula had the lowest mean absolute error (MAE) and SRK/T and Haigis had similar MAE, and the statistical highest MAE were seen with the Holladay and Hoffer Q formulas. The interquartile range of the Barrett Universal II formula was also the lowest among all the formulas. The Barrett Universal II formulas yielded the highest percentage of eyes within ±1.0 D and ±0.5 D of the target refraction in this study (97.24% and 79.56%, resp.).Conclusions.Barrett Universal II formula produced the lowest predictive error and the least variable predictive error compared with the SRK/T, Haigis, Holladay, and Hoffer Q formulas. For high myopic eyes, the Barrett Universal II formula may be a more suitable choice.
A Soliton Hierarchy Associated with a Spectral Problem of 2nd Degree in a Spectral Parameter and Its Bi-Hamiltonian Structure
Authors: Yao Yuqin , Shen Shoufeng , Ma Wen-Xiu
Published: March 2016

Associated withso~(3,R), a new matrix spectral problem of 2nd degree in a spectral parameter is proposed and its corresponding soliton hierarchy is generated within the zero curvature formulation. Bi-Hamiltonian structures of the presented soliton hierarchy are furnished by using the trace identity, and thus, all presented equations possess infinitely commuting many symmetries and conservation laws, which implies their Liouville integrability.
Electrochemical Determination of Metronidazole in Tablet Samples Using Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: Nikodimos Yosef , Amare Meareg
Published: March 2016

Cyclic voltammetric investigation of metronidazole at carbon paste electrode revealed an irreversible reduction peak centered at about −0.4 V. Observed peak potential shift with pH in the range 2.0 to 8.5 indicated the involvement of protons during the reduction of metronidazole, whereas the peak potential shift with scan rate in the range 10–250 mV/s confirmed the irreversibility of the reduction reaction. A better correlation coefficient for the dependence of peak current on the scan rate than on the square root of scan rate indicated an adsorption controlled kinetics. Under the optimized method and solution parameters, an excellent linearity between the reductive peak current and the concentration of metronidazole was observed in the concentration range 1.0 × 10−6to 5.0 × 10−4 M with a correlation coefficient, method detection limit (based ons=3σ), and limit of quantification of 0.999, 2.97 × 10−7 M and 9.91 × 10−7 M, respectively. Good recovery results for spiked metronidazole in tablet samples and selective determination of metronidazole in tablet formulations in the presence of selected potential interferents such as rabeprazole, omeprazole, and tinidazole confirmed the potential applicability of the developed method for the determination of metronidazole in real samples like pharmaceutical tablets.
The Reliability Life of 7B04 Aluminum Alloy under Alternate Action of Corrosion and Fatigue
Authors: Li Changfan , He Yuting , Feng Yu , Wu Liming , Zhang Sheng
Published: March 2016

Experiment of alternate action of corrosion and fatigue on 7B04 aluminum alloy was carried out in this paper and fatigue life was obtained. One of the characteristics about fatigue life is that it is not always decreasing with the increasing of corrosion time. The surface splits caused by the corrosion of intruding and extruding slip steps on the surface and decreasing of stress concentration around corrosion pits were the main reasons. Single side allowance factorkwas proposed to calculate reliability fatigue life with both reliability and confidence. Reliability, confidence, and specimen number had affection on the value ofk. The reliability influences more greatly the reliability fatigue life compared to the confidence. The safe fatigue life is smaller than median life and it was safe to administrate aircraft life using safe fatigue life.
Highway Expenditures and Associated Customer Satisfaction: A Case Study
Authors: Paz Alexander , de la Fuente-Mella Hanns , Singh Ashok , Conover Rebecca , Monteiro Heather
Published: March 2016

This study analyzes the satisfaction of the Nevadans with respect to their highway transportation system and the corresponding expenditures of Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT). A survey questionnaire was designed to capture the opinions of the Nevadans (customers) about a number of characteristics of their transportation system. Data from the financial data warehouse of the NDOT was used to evaluate expenditures. Multinomial probit models were estimated to study the correlations between customers’ opinion and the government expenditures in transportation. The results indicate the customer satisfaction is decreasing with respect to traffic safety throughout Northwestern and Southern Nevada highways. In addition, users of Northwestern highways are more likely to be satisfied, compared to their counterparts, with increasing construction spending to reduce the time taken to complete construction projects. In Southern Nevada highways, customers’ satisfaction increases with the expenditures associated with reduction of congestion. These insights are examples of the conclusions that were obtained as a consequence of simultaneously considering customer satisfaction and the corresponding expenditures in transportation.
Simulation on the Performance of Dye Solar Cell Incorporated with TiO2Passivation Layer
Authors: Oktiawati Unan Yusmaniar , Mohamed Norani Muti , Burhanudin Zainal Arif
Published: March 2016

Dye Solar Cell (DSC) has started to gain interest in the recent years for practical application because of its ecofriendly, low cost, and easy fabrication. However, its efficiency is still not as competitive as the conventional silicon based solar cell. One of the research efforts to improve the efficiency of DSC is to use the passivation layer in between the photoelectrode material and the conductive oxide substrate. Thus, the objective of this simulation study is to investigate the effect of passivation layer on the performance of DSC. Properties from literatures which are based on physical work were captured as the input for the simulation using process, ATHENA, and device, ATLAS, simulator. Results have shown that the addition of two-20 nm TiO2passivation layers on DSC can enhance the efficiency by 11% as the result of less recombination, higher electron mobility, and longer electron lifetime.
Backward Spectral Characterization of Liquid Crystal Display Based on Forward Spectral Characterization
Authors: Zhang Jian-qing , Cai Fang , Shen Xiao-ying , Liu Zhen , Zhu Ming
Published: March 2016

A backward spectral characterization for Liquid Crystal Display by the use of rule for the maximum peak of spectral radiation curves changing with the digital input values is proposed; this new model is developed based on forward spectral characterization. It deals with estimation ofRGBused as input to the digital display from known spectral radiation curves. We first investigate the rule for the peak of spectral radiation curves changing with the digital input values of primaries; then the initial digital inputRGBare calculated based on that rule using the known spectral radiation curvesρ0. Third,RGBare inputted into forward spectral characterization model and the corresponding spectral radiation curvesρ1are predicted. Last,RGBare modified according to the difference between predictedρ1and knownρ0, until this difference satisfied the prediction accuracy of the inverse characterization model. The inverse model has the advantage of using the same model for both forward and inverse color space transformation. This improves the accuracy of the color space transformation and reduces the source of errors. Results for 3 devices are shown and discussed; the accuracy of this model is considered sufficient for many applications.
Development of Hydrogel with Anti-Inflammatory Properties Permissive for the Growth of Human Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Sánchez-Sánchez R. , Martínez-Arredondo E. , Martínez-López V. , Melgarejo-Ramírez Y. , Brena-Molina A. , Lugo-Martínez H. , Gómez-García R. , Garciadiego-Cázares D. , Silva-Bermúdez P. , Márquez-Gutiérrez E. , Ibarra C. , Velasquillo C.
Published: March 2016

Skin wound repair requires the development of different kinds of biomaterials that must be capable of restoring the damaged tissue. Type I collagen and chitosan have been widely used to develop scaffolds for skin engineering because of their cell-related signaling properties such as proliferation, migration, and survival. Collagen is the major component of the skin extracellular matrix (ECM), while chitosan mimics the structure of the native polysaccharides and glycosaminoglycans in the ECM. Chitosan and its derivatives are also widely used as drug delivery vehicles since they are biodegradable and noncytotoxic. Regulation of the inflammatory response is crucial for wound healing and tissue regeneration processes; and, consequently, the development of biomaterials such as hydrogels with anti-inflammatory properties is very important and permissive for the growth of cells. In the last years, it has been shown that mesenchymal stem cells have clinical importance in the treatment of different pathologies, for example, skin injuries. In this paper, we describe the anti-inflammatory activity of collagen type 1/chitosan/dexamethasone hydrogel, which is permissive for the culture of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSC). Our results show that hADMSC cultured in the hydrogel are viable, proliferate, and secrete the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10) but not the inflammatory cytokine Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α).
Surgically Resected Gall Bladder: Is Histopathology Needed for All?
Authors: Talreja Vikash , Ali Aun , Khawaja Rabel , Rani Kiran , Samnani Sunil Sadruddin , Farid Farah Naz
Published: March 2016

Background.Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is considered to be gold standard for symptomatic gall stones. As a routine every specimen is sent for histopathological examination postoperatively. Incidentally finding gall bladder cancers in those specimens is around 0.5–1.1%. The aim of this study is to identify those preoperative and intraoperative factors in patients with incidental gall bladder cancer to reduce unnecessary work load on pathologist and cost of investigation particularly in a developing world.Methods.Retrospective records were analyzed from January 2005 to February 2015 in a surgical unit. Demographic data, preoperative imaging, peroperative findings, macroscopic appearance, and histopathological findings were noted. Gall bladder wall was considered to be thickened if ≥3 mm on preoperative imaging or surgeons comment (on operative findings) and histopathology report. AJCC TNM system was used to stage gall bladder cancer.Results.973 patients underwent cholecystectomy for symptomatic gallstone disease. Gallbladder carcinoma was incidentally found in 11 cases. Macroscopic abnormalities of the gallbladder were found in all those 11 patients. In patients with a macroscopically normal gallbladder, there were no cases of gallbladder carcinoma.Conclusion.Preoperative and operative findings play a pivotal role in determining incidental chances of gall bladder malignancy.
Soil Erosion Estimation Using Remote Sensing Techniques in Wadi Yalamlam Basin, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bahrawi Jarbou A. , Elhag Mohamed , Aldhebiani Amal Y. , Galal Hanaa K. , Hegazy Ahmad K. , Alghailani Ebtisam
Published: March 2016

Soil erosion is one of the major environmental problems in terms of soil degradation in Saudi Arabia. Soil erosion leads to significant on- and off-site impacts such as significant decrease in the productive capacity of the land and sedimentation. The key aspects influencing the quantity of soil erosion mainly rely on the vegetation cover, topography, soil type, and climate. This research studies the quantification of soil erosion under different levels of data availability in Wadi Yalamlam. Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques have been implemented for the assessment of the data, applying the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) for the calculation of the risk of erosion. Thirty-four soil samples were randomly selected for the calculation of the erodibility factor, based on calculating theK-factor values derived from soil property surfaces after interpolating soil sampling points. Soil erosion risk map was reclassified into five erosion risk classes and 19.3% of the Wadi Yalamlam is under very severe risk (37,740 ha). GIS and RS proved to be powerful instruments for mapping soil erosion risk, providing sufficient tools for the analytical part of this research. The mapping results certified the role of RUSLE as a decision support tool.
NRF2 Intensifies Host Defense Systems to Prevent Lung Carcinogenesis, but After Tumor Initiation Accelerates Malignant Cell Growth
Authors: Satoh Hironori , Moriguchi Takashi , Saigusa Daisuke , Baird Liam , Yu Lei , Rokutan Hirofumi , Igarashi Keiko , Ebina Masahito , Shibata Tatsuhiro , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: March 2016

Nrf2 activation promotes resistance to chemical carcinogenesis in animal models, but activating mutations in Nrf2 also confer malignant characters to human cells by activating antioxidative/detoxifying enzymes and metabolic reprogramming. In this study, we examined how these contradictory activities of Nrf2, cancer chemoprevention and cancer cell growth enhancement, can be reconciled in an established mouse model of urethane-induced lung carcinogenesis. Using Keap1-knockdown (kd) mice, which express high levels of Nrf2, we found that urethane was rapidly excreted into the urine, consistent with an upregulation in the expression of urethane detoxification genes. Consequently, urethane-induced tumors were significantly smaller and less frequent in Keap1-kd mice than in wild-type mice. In contrast, tumor cells derived from Keap1-kd mice and transplanted into nude mice exhibited higher tumorigenicity compared with cells derived from wild-type mice. To identify the factors contributing to the tumor growth phenotype in the transplantation model, we performed a microarray analysis and found that many antioxidative stress genes were upregulated in the Keap1-kd–derived tumors. Therefore, we suggest that Nrf2 activation in cancer cells enhances their tumorigenicity, but global Nrf2 activation, as in Keap1-kd mice, simultaneously enhances anticancer immunity, thereby suppressing the growth potential of Keap1-kd tumors. Our findings provide relevant insight into the dual role of Nrf2 in cancer and warrant further studies of Nrf2 function during different stages of carcinogenesis. Cancer Res; 76(10); 3088–96. ©2016 AACR.
AMPK Activation and Metabolic Reprogramming by Tamoxifen through Estrogen Receptor–Independent Mechanisms Suggests New Uses for This Therapeutic Modality in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Daurio Natalie A. , Tuttle Stephen W. , Worth Andrew J. , Song Ethan Y. , Davis Julianne M. , Snyder Nathaniel W. , Blair Ian A. , Koumenis Constantinos
Published: March 2016

Tamoxifen is the most widely used adjuvant chemotherapeutic for the treatment of estrogen receptor (ER)–positive breast cancer, yet a large body of clinical and preclinical data indicates that tamoxifen can modulate multiple cellular processes independently of ER status. Here, we describe the ER-independent effects of tamoxifen on tumor metabolism. Using combined pharmacologic and genetic knockout approaches, we demonstrate that tamoxifen inhibits oxygen consumption via inhibition of mitochondrial complex I, resulting in an increase in the AMP/ATP ratio and activation of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. AMPK in turn promotes glycolysis and alters fatty acid metabolism. We also show that tamoxifen-induced cytotoxicity is modulated by isoform-specific effects of AMPK signaling, in which AMPKα1 promotes cell death through inhibition of the mTOR pathway and translation. By using agents that concurrently target distinct adaptive responses to tamoxifen-mediated metabolic reprogramming, we demonstrate increased cytotoxicity through synergistic therapeutic approaches. Our results demonstrate novel metabolic perturbations by tamoxifen in tumor cells, which can be exploited to expand the therapeutic potential of tamoxifen treatment beyond ER+ breast cancer. Cancer Res; 76(11); 3295–306. ©2016 AACR.
Trop-2 Induces Tumor Growth Through AKT and Determines Sensitivity to AKT Inhibitors
Authors: Guerra Emanuela , Trerotola Marco , Tripaldi Romina , Aloisi Anna Laura , Simeone Pasquale , Sacchetti Andrea , Relli Valeria , D'Amore Antonella , La Sorda Rossana , Lattanzio Rossano , Piantelli Mauro , Alberti Saverio
Published: March 2016

Purpose: Inhibition of AKT is a key target area for personalized cancer medicine. However, predictive markers of response to AKT inhibitors are lacking. Correspondingly, the AKT-dependent chain of command for tumor growth, which will mediate AKT-dependent therapeutic responses, remains unclear.

Experimental Design: Proteomic profiling was utilized to identify nodal hubs of the Trop-2 cancer growth–driving network. Kinase-specific inhibitors were used to dissect Trop-2–dependent from Trop-2–independent pathways. In vitro assays, in vivo preclinical models, and case series of primary human breast cancers were utilized to define the mechanisms of Trop-2–driven growth and the mode of action of Trop-2–predicted AKT inhibitors.

Results: Trop-2 and AKT expression was shown to be tightly coordinated in human breast cancers, with virtual overlap with AKT activation profiles at T308 and S473, consistent with functional interaction in vivo. AKT allosteric inhibitors were shown to only block the growth of Trop-2–expressing tumor cells, both in vitro and in preclinical models, being ineffective on Trop-2–null cells. Consistently, AKT-targeted siRNA only impacted on Trop-2–expressing cells. Lentiviral downregulation of endogenous Trop-2 abolished tumor response to AKT blockade, indicating Trop-2 as a mandatory activator of AKT.

Conclusions: Our findings indicate that the expression of Trop-2 is a stringent predictor of tumor response to AKT inhibitors. They also support the identification of target-activatory pathways, as efficient predictors of response in precision cancer therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 22(16); 4197–205. ©2016 AACR.
Inhibition of PI3K/BMX Cell Survival Pathway Sensitizes to BH3 Mimetics in SCLC
Authors: Potter Danielle S. , Galvin Melanie , Brown Stewart , Lallo Alice , Hodgkinson Cassandra L. , Blackhall Fiona , Morrow Christopher J. , Dive Caroline
Published: March 2016

Most small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients are initially responsive to cytotoxic chemotherapy, but almost all undergo fatal relapse with progressive disease, highlighting an urgent need for improved therapies and better patient outcomes in this disease. The proapoptotic BH3 mimetic ABT-737 that targets BCL-2 family proteins demonstrated good single-agent efficacy in preclinical SCLC models. However, so far clinical trials of the BH3 mimetic Navitoclax have been disappointing. We previously demonstrated that inhibition of a PI3K/BMX cell survival signaling pathway sensitized colorectal cancer cells to ABT-737. Here, we show that SCLC cell lines, which express high levels of BMX, become sensitized to ABT-737 upon inhibition of PI3K in vitro, and this is dependent on inhibition of the PI3K-BMX-AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Consistent with these cell line data, when combined with Navitoclax, PI3K inhibition suppressed tumor growth in both an established SCLC xenograft model and in a newly established circulating tumor cell–derived explant (CDX) model generated from a blood sample obtained at presentation from a chemorefractory SCLC patient. These data show for the first time that a PI3K/BMX signaling pathway plays a role in SCLC cell survival and that a BH3 mimetic plus PI3K inhibition causes prolonged tumor regression in a chemorefractory SCLC patient–derived model in vivo. These data add to a body of evidence that this combination should move toward the clinic. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(6); 1248–60. ©2016 AACR.
Risk Stratification System for Oral Cancer Screening
Authors: Pereira Lutécia H. Mateus , Reis Isildinha M. , Reategui Erika P. , Gordon Claudia , Saint-Victor Sandra , Duncan Robert , Gomez Carmen , Bayers Stephanie , Fisher Penelope , Perez Aymee , Goodwin W. Jarrard , Hu Jennifer J. , Franzmann Elizabeth J.
Published: March 2016

Oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer (oral cancer) is a deadly disease that is increasing in incidence. Worldwide 5-year survival is only 50% due to delayed intervention with more than half of the diagnoses at stage III and IV, whereas earlier detection (stage I and II) yields survival rates up to 80% to 90%. Salivary soluble CD44 (CD44), a tumor-initiating marker, and total protein levels may facilitate oral cancer risk assessment and early intervention. This study used a hospital-based design with 150 cases and 150 frequency-matched controls to determine whether CD44 and total protein levels in oral rinses were associated with oral cancer independent of age, gender, race, ethnicity, tobacco and alcohol use, and socioeconomic status (SES). High-risk subjects receiving oral cancer prevention interventions as part of a community-based program (n = 150) were followed over 1 year to determine marker specificity and variation. CD44 ≥5.33 ng/mL was highly associated with case status [adjusted OR 14.489; 95% confidence interval (CI), 5.973–35.145; P < .0001, vs. reference group CD44 <2.22 ng/mL and protein <1.23 mg/mL]. Total protein aided prediction above CD44 alone. Sensitivity and specificity in the frequency-matched study was 80% and 48.7%, respectively. However, controls were not representative of the target screening population due, in part, to a high rate of prior cancer. In contrast, specificity in the high-risk community was 74% and reached 95% after annual retesting. Simple and inexpensive salivary CD44 and total protein measurements may help identify individuals at heightened risk for oral cancer from the millions who partake in risky behaviors. Cancer Prev Res; 9(6); 445–55. ©2016 AACR.
A Case-Control Study Indicates that no Association Exists Between Polymorphisms of IL-33 and IL-1RL1 and Preeclampsia
Authors: Ren Xiaoyan , Guo Mingzhen , Liu Caili , Huang Tao , Li Qiang , Han Mengmeng , Song Weiqing , Tang Xiuming , Liu Shiguo
Published: March 2016

Background/Aims: Preeclampsia (PE) is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome involving varieties of cytokines, and previous studies have shown that IL-33 and its receptor IL-1RL1 play pivotal roles in the development of it. As a polygenetic hereditary disease, it is necessary to study the gene analysis for PE. Therefore, the present study was to determine whether IL-33 rs3939286 and IL-1RL1 rs13015714 associated with susceptibility to PE in Chinese Han women. Methods: 1,031 PE patients and 1,298 controls were enrolled and the genotyping for rs3939286 in IL-33 and rs13015714 in IL-1RL1 was performed by TaqMan allelic discrimination real-time PCR. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) was examined to ensure the group representativeness and Pearson's chi-square test was used to compare the differences in genetic distributions between the two groups. Results: No significant differences in genotypic and allelic frequencies of the two polymorphisms loci were observed between cases and controls. There were also no significant differences in genetic distributions between mild/severe and early/late-onset PE and control groups. Conclusion: Although our data suggested that the polymorphisms of IL-33 rs3939286 and IL-1RL1 rs13015714 might not be critical risk factors for PE in Chinese Han women, the results need to be validated in different nations.
A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (rs1056629) in 3'-UTR of MMP-9 is Responsible for a Decreased Risk of Metastatic Osteosarcoma by Compromising its Interaction with microRNA-491-5p
Authors: Tian Xiaodong , Zhang Xuesong
Published: March 2016

Background: This study aimed to explore the roles of microRNA-491-5p (miR-491) and its target MMP9 in the control of metastasis of osteosarcoma (OS) as well as how the rs1056629 polymorphism in the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) of MMP9 compromises the interaction between miR-491 and MMP9. Methods: We used bioinformatics tools to identify possible binding sites of miR-491 in the 3'UTR of MMP9 and 30 OS tissue samples were collected and divided into two groups based on the rs1056629 genotype (AA, N=20; AC, N=8; and CC N=2). The expression of miR-491 and MMP9 were determined in those samples. Results: We found that the rs1056629 polymorphism potentially compromised the interaction between miRNA and mRNA, which was subsequently confirmed by using the luciferase reporter system. we found that the expression of miR-491 was comparable among the genotype groups, whereas the expression of MMP9 was much higher in the AC/CC groups than in the AA group. Furthermore, 10 OS cell lines (OSA, MG-63, Saos-2, U2OS, SARG, KPD, OHS, HAL, ZK-58, and MHM) were genotyped for the rs1056629 polymorphism, and MG-63 (AA) and OSA (AC) were identified for the scratch test and Transwell assay that followed. In the MG-63 cells, transfection of the miR-491 mimics and MMP9 siRNA similarly and substantially down regulated the expression of MMP9, and miRNA and siRNA clearly suppressed the migratory and invasive ability. In the OSA cells, only MMP9 siRNA notably reduced the expression of MMP9 and decreased the migratory and invasive ability. The introduction of miR-491 mimics left the expression of MMP9 and the migratory and invasive ability intact. Conclusion: We found that the rs1056629 polymorphism interfered with the interaction between MMP9 mRNA and miR-491 and is associated with the metastasis of OS cells.
Changes in the Capillarity of the Rat Extensor Digitorum Longus Muscle 4 Weeks after Nerve Injury Studied by 2D Measurement Methods
Authors: Čebašek Vita , Ribarič Samo
Published: March 2016

We have previously shown by 3D study that 2 weeks after nerve injury there was no change in the length of capillaries per muscle fibre length in rat extensor digitorum longus muscle (EDL). The primary goal of the present 2D study was to determine the capillarity of rat EDL 4 weeks after various modes of nerve injury. Additionally, we wished to calculate the same capillary/fibre parameters that were used in our 3D stereological study. EDL muscles derived from denervated (4 weeks after nerve injury), re-innervated (4 weeks after two successive nerve crushes) and age-matched controls from the beginning (CON-1) and the end (CON-2) of the experiment were analysed in two ways. Global indices of capillarity, such as capillary density (CD) and capillary/fibre (C/F) ratio, were determined by automatic analysis, local indices as the number (CAF) and the length of capillaries around individual muscle fibres (Lcap) in relation to muscle fibre size were estimated manually by tracing the muscle fibre outlines and the transversally and longitudinally cut segments of capillaries seen in 5-µm-thin muscle cross sections. Four weeks after both types of nerve injury, CD increased in comparison to the CON-2 group (p < 0.001) due to atrophied muscle fibres in denervated muscles and probably proliferation of capillaries in re-innervated ones. Higher C/F, CAF (both p < 0.001) and Lcap (p < 0.01) in re-innervated than denervated EDL confirmed this assumption. Calculated capillary/fibre parameters were comparable to our previous 3D study, which strengthens the practical value to the adapted 2D method used in this study.
Effects of UV Rays and Thymol/Thymus vulgaris L. Extract in an ex vivo Human Skin Model: Morphological and Genotoxicological Assessment
Authors: Cornaghi Laura , Arnaboldi Francesca , Calò Rossella , Landoni Federica , Baruffaldi Preis William Franz , Marabini Laura , Donetti Elena
Published: March 2016

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the major environmental factor affecting functions of the skin. Compounds rich in polyphenols, such as Thymus vulgaris leaf extract and thymol, have been proposed for the prevention of UV-induced skin damage. We compared the acute effects induced by UVA and UVB rays on epidermal morphology and proliferation, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity. Normal human skin explants were obtained from young healthy women (n = 7) after informed consent and cultured at the air-liquid interface overnight. After 24 h, the samples were divided in 2 groups: the former exposed to UVA (16 or 24 J/cm2) and the latter irradiated with UVB (0.24 or 0.72 J/cm2). One hour after the end of irradiation, supernatants were collected for evaluation of the lactate dehydrogenase activity. Twenty-four hours after UVB exposure, biopsies were processed for light and transmission electron microscopy analysis, proliferation, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity. UVB and UVA rays induced early inhibition of cell proliferation and DNA damage compared to controls. In particular, UVB rays were always more cytotoxic and genotoxic than UVA ones. For this reason, we evaluated the effect of either T. vulgaris L. extract (1.82 µg/ml) or thymol (1 µg/ml) on all samples treated for 1 h before UVB irradiation. While Thymus had a protective action for all of the endpoints evaluated, the action of the extract was less pronounced on epidermal proliferation and morphological features. The results presented in this study could be the basis for investigating the mechanism of thymol and T. vulgaris L. extract against the damage induced by UV radiation.
Thiobarbituric Acid-Reactive Substances: Markers of an Acute Episode and a Late Stage of Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Siwek Marcin , Sowa-Kucma Magdalena , Styczen Krzysztof , Misztak Paulina , Szewczyk Bernadeta , Topor-Madry Roman , Nowak Gabriel , Dudek Dominika , Rybakowski Janusz K.
Published: March 2016

Background: Lowered antioxidant defense systems and increased oxidative stress are implicated in bipolar disorders (BD). Early and late stages of BD may present different biological features (including the level of oxidative stress) and may therefore require different treatment strategies. The aim of this study was to analyze serum levels of lipid peroxidation [measured as thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), a derivative of malondialdehyde] in BD patients at various stages and phases of the illness and compare their TBARS levels with those of healthy controls. Method: A total of 129 patients (58 in the depressive episode, 23 in the manic episode and 48 in remission) diagnosed with type I (n = 69) or type II (n = 60) BD and 50 healthy volunteers (control group) were enrolled in the study. The level of lipid peroxidation was measured in blood serum using a TBARS assay kit. Results: TBARS levels in the acute episode of mania/hypomania and depression (but not in remission) were significantly higher than in healthy controls. With regard to the BD stage, both early- and late-stage BD TBARS levels were significantly increased in patients in the depressive episode. In late-stage BD, the TBARS level in patients in remission remained elevated compared with controls. A multiple regression model confirmed the association between the TBARS level and BD stage or acute BD. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that TBARS levels reflect the oxidative stress state which increases both in the acute phase of BD (mania/hypomania and depression) and with BD progression (stage).
Status of Emergency Contraceptives in Europe One Year after the European Medicines Agency's Recommendation to Switch Ulipristal Acetate to Non-Prescription Status
Authors: Italia Salvatore , Brand Helmut
Published: March 2016

Background: In November 2014, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommended switching the emergency contraceptive (EMC) ulipristal acetate to non-prescription status. This study's objective is to assess the current legal status of the two EMCs ulipristal acetate and levonorgestrel in Europe and to report on the development of sales figures for EMCs since they were made freely available. Methods: Health authorities were contacted in autumn 2015 and asked about the current status of EMCs and whether the sales figures had changed after a switch to non-prescription status. Additionally, data on consumption were collected in 18 German community pharmacies. Results: As of November 2015, most countries in the European Union (EU) have followed the EMA recommendation. Hungary kept the prescription-only status. In Malta, EMC drugs are not authorized. Germany and Croatia switched levonorgestrel to non-prescription status as well. Of the EU candidate and European Free Trade Association countries, ulipristal acetate is available without prescription in Norway and Bosnia and Herzegovina only. Several countries reported an increase in EMC sales since the switch. Conclusions: An EMA recommendation can strongly contribute to the harmonization of a drug's legal status in the EU. In most European countries, ulipristal acetate and/or levonorgestrel are now freely available.
International Survey on the Management of Wake-Up Stroke
Authors: de Castro-Afonso Luís Henrique , Nakiri Guilherme Seizem , Pontes-Neto Octávio Marques , dos Santos Antônio Carlos , Abud Daniel Giansante
Published: March 2016

Background: Patients who wake up having experienced a stroke while asleep represent around 20% of acute stroke admissions. According to international guidelines for the management of acute stroke, patients presenting with wake-up stroke are not currently eligible to receive revascularization treatments. In this study, we aimed to assess the opinions of stroke experts about the management of patients with wake-up stroke by using an international multicenter electronic survey. Method: This study consisted of 8 questions on wake-up stroke treatment. Results: Two hundred invitations to participate in the survey were sent by e-mail. Fifty-nine participants started the survey, 4 dropped out before completing it, and 55 completed the full questionnaire. We had 55 participants from 22 countries. Conclusions: In this study, most stroke experts recommended a recanalization treatment for wake-up stroke. However, there was considerable disagreement among experts regarding the best brain imaging method and the best recanalization treatment. The results of ongoing randomized trials on wake-up stroke are urgently needed.
Influence of Transiently Increased Nutritional Risk on a Left Ventricle Myocardial Mass Assessed by Echocardiography
Authors: Boban Marko , Laviano Alessandro , Persic Viktor , Biocina Bojan , Petricevic Mate , Zekanovic Drazen , Rotim Cecilija , Aleric Ivan , Vcev Aleksandar
Published: March 2016

Background/Aim: Metabolic derangements due to increased nutritional risk lead to catabolism and loss of proteins, muscle tissue and eventually mass of parenchymatous organs. The aim of our study was to assess whether transitory nutritional risk after heart surgery influences on the left ventricle myocardial mass (LVMM), assessed by echocardiography. Methods: Consecutive sample of patients scheduled for cardiovascular rehabilitation, in period 0-3 months after surgery. Nutritional risk screening (NRS) was analyzed using the NRS-2002 tool. Results: Study sample included 330 patients after heart surgery for ischemic 186 (56.4%); valvular 91 (27.6%) and valvular plus ischemic 53 (16.1%) heart disease. Age was 65.5 ± 10.6 (range 23-84) and there were more male patients than female - 240 (72.7%) and 90 (27.3%), respectively. The percentage of unintentional loss of weight was 10.8 ± 3.4%, in range 0-23.81%, whereas NRS-2002 was 4.4 ± 1.1. LVMM was 218.7 ± 65.9 g vs. 252.3 ± 51.7 (p = 0.015); for patients with increased nutritional risk and controls, respectively. There was no significant correlation of LVMM with NRS-2002, while the percentage of unintentional loss of weight displayed only weakly inverse correlation (Rho CC = -0.197; p = 0.007). LVMM also correlated significantly with body mass index (Rho CC = 0.247; p < 0.001) and waist-to-hip ratio (Rho CC = 0.291; p < 0.001). In conclusion, LVMM was found to decrease slightly in the period of increased nutritional risk, following heart surgery. Changes in LVMM are partially consequences of systemic catabolic response, as well as anthropometric changes due to unintentional loss of weight.
Treatment of Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis Recurrence in the Renal Allograft: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Tran Minh-Ha , Chan Cynthia , Pasch Whitney , Carpenter Philip , Ichii Hirohito , Foster Clarence
Published: March 2016

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) causes glomerular lesions that can progress to end-stage renal disease. It is suspected to be caused by a circulating factor that is amenable to plasmapheresis removal and exhibits a risk for recurrence in the renal allograft. We present two patients with FSGS recurrence in their allograft kidneys diagnosed by biopsy after significant proteinuria developed in the posttransplant setting. Treatment with therapeutic plasma exchange induced long-term remission in both patients. Spot urine protein:creatinine ratios were monitored and treatment was continued until a target of <0.5 was achieved. In patient number two, a second peak in proteinuria and azotemia was ultimately attributable to ureteral stenosis and these values normalized following repair. In conclusion, therapeutic plasma exchange is an effective treatment for FSGS recurring following renal transplant.
ЗМІНИ ЕТІОЛОГІЧНОГО СПЕКТРУ ЗБУДНИКІВ ЛЕПТОСПІРОЗУ СЕРЕД НАСЕЛЕННЯ НА ТЕРНОПІЛЛІ
Authors: Vasylieva N. A. , Kravchuk Y. A.
Published: March 2016

Тернопільська область є ендемічною по лептоспірозу.
Її природні умови (слабколужні чи лужні ґрунти,
температура повітря, достатня кількість опадів)
сприяють існуванню основного природного резервуара
збудника − мишоподібних гризунів. На території облас-
ті постійно виділяються різні сероваріанти лептоспір
від гризунів і сільськогосподарських тварин. Проведе-
ний аналіз циркуляції збудників хвороби між різними
джерелами (гризуни, інші тварини) і щорічної захворю-
ваності населення свідчить про те, що нові серовари
лептоспір заносяться здебільшого сільськогосподар-
ськими тваринами, від яких через довкілля інфікується
людина, іноді з інтервалом 3-5 років; спостерігається
подальше розповсюдження нових для даної території
сероварів збудника у всіх видів обстежених мишопо-
дібних гризунів. Встановлено, що сільськогосподарські
тварини і гризуни є конкуруючими резервуарами. Для
прогнозування подальшої епідситуації з лептоспірозу
серед населення та покращення його діагностики
необхідний постійний моніторинг чисельності, інфіко-
ваності та лептоспіроносійства серед мишоподібних
гризунів і сільськогосподарських тварин й розширення
набору діагностичних штамів лептоспір з урахуванням
нових варіантів збудників у тварин.
Ключові слова: лептоспіроз, захворюваність
населення, джерела інфекції, мишоподібні гризуни,
сільськогосподарські тварини.
РОЛЬ АЛЕРГІЇ В ГЕНЕЗІ СТЕНОЗНОГО ЛАРИНГОТРАХЕЇТУ І РЕЦИДИВНОГО СТЕНОЗНОГО ЛАРИНГОТРАХЕЇТУ У ДІТЕЙ
Authors: Stanislavchuk I. M.
Published: March 2016

Вивчено частоту випадків бронхіальної астми (БА)
в сімейному анамнезі та рівні IgE й ІЛ-4 в сироватці
крові дітей зі стенозним ларинготрахеїтом (СЛТ),
рецидивним СЛТ та БА. Випадки БА у родичів дітей з
БА і РСЛТ спостерігалися значно частіше, ніж у родичів
дітей зі СЛТ. Рівні ІЛ-4 і загального IgE в сироватці
крові у дітей зі СЛТ, РСЛТ і БА були істотно вищими,
ніж у контрольній групі, з найбільшими значеннями у
дітей з БА. Рівні ІЛ-4 і загального IgE у дітей з РСЛТ
перевищували такі у дітей зі СЛТ. Результати аналізу
свідчать про більш суттєву роль алергії в генезі РСЛТ,
ніж у генезі СЛТ.
Ключові слова: стенозний ларинготрахеїт, ре-
цидивний стенозний ларинготрахеїт, бронхіальна
астма, загальний IgE, інтерлейкін-4.
ПРОБЛЕМИ ХВОРОБИ ЗІКА У СВІТІ
Authors: Andreychyn M. A. , Zavidniuk N. H. , Nychyk N. A.
Published: March 2016

Стисло викладено найновішу інформацію про акту-
альність цієї інфекції, її етіологію, джерела збудника і
шляхи його передачі людині, патогенез, клінічні прояви,
можливість розвитку мікроцефалії у плода, алгоритм
специфічної діагностики, неспецифічні лікувальні та
профілактичні заходи. Зазначено, що противірусну
терапію і вакцину не розроблено.
Ключові слова: вірус Зіка, флавівіруси, хвороба
Зіка, комарі роду Aedes, мікроцефалія
ЕПІДЕМІОЛОГІЧНИЙ НАГЛЯД ЗА ПОЛІОМІЄЛІТОМ і ГОСТРИМ В’ЯЛИМ ПАРАЛІЧЕМ У ТЕРНОПІЛЬСЬКІЙ ОБЛАСТІ
Authors: Panychev V. O. , Pavelyeva M. M. , Matsipura S. V. , Hodovana N. I. , Kulachkovska I. V. , Dementyeva L. Ya. , Ilnytska U. V. , Kostyuk O. A. , Nakonechna I. H.
Published: March 2016

Наведені дані про стан епідеміологічного нагляду, що
проводиться Держсанепідслужбою області. Проаналізо-
вано заходи, спрямовані на запобігання захворюванням
на поліомієліт.
Ключові слова: поліомієліт, гострий в’ялий параліч
(ГВП), епіднагляд, моніторинг ентеровірусів.
НАУКОВО-ПРАКТИЧНА КОНФЕРЕНЦІЯ «АКТУАЛЬНІ ІНФЕКЦІЙНІ ЗАХВОРЮВАННЯ. КЛІНІКА. ДІАГНОСТИКА. ЛІКУВАННЯ ТА ПРОФІЛАКТИКА»
Authors: Trykhlib V. I.
Published: March 2016

26-27 листопада 2015 р. у Національному військово-
медичному клінічному центрі «ГВКГ» була проведена
науково-практична конференція «Актуальні інфекційні
захворювання. Клініка. Діагностика. Лікування та профі-
лактика». Організаторами цієї конференції були фахівці
кафедри військової терапії Української військово-медичної
академії, ДУ «Інститут епідеміології та інфекційних хвороб
ім. Л.В. Громашевського НАМН України», кафедри інфекцій-
них хвороб Національної медичної академії післядипломної
освіти ім. П.Л. Шупика, кафедри дитячих інфекційних хво-
роб Національного медичного університету ім. О.О. Бого-
мольця, клініки інфекційних захворювань Національного
військово-медичного клінічного центру «ГВКГ».
ВИВЧЕННЯ ЯКОСТІ ЖИТТЯ ДІТЕЙ З АТОПІЧНИМ ДЕРМАТИТОМ В ПРАКТИЦІ ПЕДІАТРА.
Authors: Banadyha N. V. , Hariyan T. V. , Ftomova O. Ya.
Published: March 2016

 В статті представлені сучасні аспекти методологіїоцінки якості життя дітей з атопічним дерматитом, а також особливості використання даного методу в
педіатрії Авторами узагальнено результати різних досліджень, данні вітчизняної' зарубіжної'літератури та доведено необхідність введення опитувальника в протокол діагностики та лікування атопічного дерматиту.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ КЛІНІЧНОГО ПЕРЕБІГУ ХРОНІЧНОЇ РЕВМАТИЧНОЇ ХВОРОБИ СЕРЦЯ У ДІТЕЙ.
Authors: Boyarchuk O. R.
Published: March 2016

У статті проведено аналіз клінічних даних перебігу хронічної ревматичної хвороби серця у 78 дітей віком від 8 до 17 років. Показано переважне
ураження мітрального клапана, при цьому його недостатність спостерігали у 39,7 % хворих. У 38,5 % дітей були відсутні дані за перенесену гостру ревматичну лихоманку. В клінічній симптоматиці переважав кардіальний синдром, прояви серцевої недостатності спостерігалися у 56,4 % дітей.
ВМІСТ АНТИМІКРОБНИХ ПЕПТИДІВ ТА КЛІТИННИЙ СКЛАД РОТОГЛОТКОВОГО СЕКРЕТУ В ДІТЕЙ З ЧАСТИМИ РЕСПІРАТОРНИМИ ЗАХВОРЮВАННЯМИ.
Authors: Marushko Y. V. , Movchan O. S.
Published: March 2016

В роботі проведено визначення вмісту антимікробних пептидів та клітинного складу ротоглоткового секрету (РГС) у 37 дітей з частими гострими респіраторними захворюваннями (ДЧХ). З них 20 пацієнтів з частими ГРЗ, 17 - з частими гострими респіраторними захворюванями (ГРЗ) та атопічним дерматитом (АД). Контрольну групу склали 10 дітей, які хворіли на ГРЗ менше 4 разів на рік (ЕХД — епізодично хворіючі діти). В РГС був визначений вміст дефензинів в 1 -3, лізоциму, лактоферину, секреторного імуноглобулінуА (slgA), епітеліоцитів, нейтрофілів, лімфоцитів. Встановлено,
що у ЕХД рівень дефензинів в 1-3 у РГС становив 4,04±0,6 мкг/мл. У ДЧХ рівень дефензинів в1 -3 мав тенденцію до зниження і склав 3,05±0,04 мкг/мл. У ДЧХ з АД зареєстровано достовірне зниження вмісту дефензинів в1-3 у РГС (р<0,01) — 1,58±0,2 мкг/мл порівняно з ЕХД. У групі ДЧХ 4-7 років вміст факторів локального захисту не мав вагомих зрушень. Тільки у ДЧХ 8-12 років зафіксоване статистично достовірне зниження slgA - 0,14±0,05 г/л порівняно з відповідним показником у ЕХД — 0,43±0,17 г/л. У групі ДЧХ з АД (4-7 років) відзначається тенденція до зниження вмісту всіх досліджуваних захисних факторів у РГС, достовірно за рівнями дефензинів в1 -3 та лактоферину. В групі ДЧХ+АД 8-12 років зареєстровані високі рівні лактоферину та slgA. У ДЧХ з АД (4-7 років) спостерігалося достовірне збільшення вмісту лімфоцитів в РГС порівняно з ДЧХ 4-7 років.
ЛІКУВАЛЬНА ТАКТИКА ТА ІНТЕНСИВНА ТЕРАПІЯ В ДООПЕРАЦІЙНОМУ ТА РАННЬОМУ ПІСЛЯОПЕРАЦІЙНОМУ ПЕРІОДАХ У НОВОНАРОДЖЕНИХ ДІТЕЙ З ГАСТРОШИЗИСОМ.
Authors: Krytskyy I. O. , Hoshchynskyy P. V. , Chepesyuk V. O.
Published: March 2016

 Дана робота присвячена аналізу проведення інтенсивної терапії новонароджених дітей з гастрошизисом в до- та післяопераційному періодах.Показано переваги даної'тактики та її ефективність в зниженні летальності дітей з гастрошизисом.
ЕПІДЕМІОЛОГІЧНІ ДОСЛІДЖЕННЯ СТАНУ ТВЕРДИХ ТКАНИН ЗУБІВ У ДІТЕЙ ДОШКІЛЬНОГО ВІКУ МІСТА ТЕРНОПОЛЯ.
Authors: Pynda M. J.
Published: March 2016

Проведене вивчення поширеності та інтенсивності карієсу у 6-річних дітей М.Тернополя, що є зоною гіпофторозу, підтвердило дані літератури про значну поширеність карієсу зубів у дітей дошкільного віку. Результати досліджень показали, що поширеність карієсу серед 6-річних дітей склала 75 %, що є високим для даної вікової групи. Проведене опитування дітей і іХ батьків показало, що регулярно чистять зуби лиш 36,6 %. Дані результатів анкетування були підтверджені дослідженням індексів гігієни Silness-loe і Stallard, які вказували на достатньо низький гігієнічний рівень порожнини рота. Для підтвердження отриманих вище результатів проведене прицільне вивчення показників інтенсивності карієсу в залежності від регулярності
догляду за порожниною рота. Результати досліджень показали, що найвищі показники інтенсивності карієсу були виявлені у дітей, що не чистять зуби.
СУЧАСНІ АСПЕКТИ ВЕДЕННЯ БАГАТОПЛІДНОЇ ВАГІТНОСТІ.
Authors: Boychuk A. V. A. V. , Nikitina I. N. , Behosh B. M.
Published: March 2016

В статті проведений ретельний аналіз перебігу вагітності,
пологів і перинатальних результатів у 182 пацієнток з багатоплідною вагітністю в залежності від типу плацентації. Доведено, що
багатоплідна вагітність - як монохоріальна, так і дихоріальна, - є чинником високого ризику перинатальних ускладнень.
Встановлена виражена залежність від хоріальності частоти виявлених патологічних змін при ультраросонографії. Ретельне
спостереження за пацієнтками з багатопліддям в антенатальном періоді, профілактика найбільш частих ускладнень вагітності
(передчасні пологи, анемія, гестози, затримка розвитку плода), ультразвуковий моніторинг з ранніхтермінів вагітності дозволяють
диференційовано підходити до ведення вагітності і пологів, сприяючи зниженню перинатальноїзахворюваності і смертності.
ПОРУШЕННЯ ПРОДУКЦІЇЧИННИКІВ РОСТУ ПРИ ПЛАЦЕНТАРНІЙ ДИСФУНКЦІЇ.
Authors: Makarenko M. V. , Kuzminan I. Y.
Published: March 2016

Проведено дослідження 225 вагітнихз
плацентарною дисфункцією (ПД) з метою визначения порушень продукції чинників росту (ЧР) у різні строки вагітності.
Показано, що порушення продукції ЧР в системі мати- плацента- плід є одним з патогенетичних факторів розвитку ПД. З
метою своєчасної діагностики розвитку ПД необхідно контролювати показники ЧР у групі ризику вагітних, починаючи з
ранніх термінів вагітності.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ПСИХОЕМОЦІЙНОГО СТАНУ У ВАГІТНИХ ІЗ ЗАГРОЗОЮ ПЕРЕДЧАСНИХ ПОЛОГІВ.
Authors: Korniienko V. G.
Published: March 2016

Психоемоційний
стан має великий вплив на гестаційний процес. У жінок із загрозою передчасних пологів відмічається дисбаланс емоційного
стану, що проявляється високим рівнем тривожності.