bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-inflammatory effects and anti-oxidant capacity ofMyrathius arboreus(Cecropiaceae) in experimental models
Authors: Oluwole Oluwafemi Gabriel , Ologe Olufunmilayo , Alabi Akinyinka , Tunde Yusuf Ganiyu , Umukoro Solomon
Published: March 2017

Background:

Inflammation is involved in various diseases; search for safe treatments is warranted. Anti-inflammatory effects of ethanol extract ofMyrathius arboreus(EEMa) were studied in carrageenan-induced model, formaldehyde sub-acute-induced model, and in 48 h lipopolysaccharide-induced air pouch model of inflammation. EEMa membrane-stabilizing activities and anti-oxidant capacity were determined in vitro.

Methods:

In the carrageenan model EEMa (125, 250, or 500 mg/kg), indomethacin (5 mg/kg), or vehicle 3 mL/kg was administered orally in rats (n=5). After 1 h, 0.1 mL of 1% carrageenan was injected into the right hind paw of rats. Change in edema sizes was measured for 3 h with plethysmometer. One-tenth milliliter (0.1 mL) of 2.5% formaldehyde was injected into the rat paw on the first day and the third day to induce sub-acute inflammation; changes in the edema sizes were determined, and percentages of inhibitions were calculated. Anti-inflammatory effects of EEMa were further examined in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced air-pouch based on leukocytes count, volume of exudates, levels of malondialdehyde, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, nitric oxides, and tumor necrosis factor released into the inflammatory fluids. EEMa-free radicals scavenging activities were studied in DPPH and reducing power tests. Membrane-stabilizing activities of EEMa were evaluated in the red blood cell lysis induced by thermal and hypotonic solution.

Results:

EEMa (250, 500 mg/kg) produced significant (p<0.001; p<0.05) inhibition of inflammation when compared with vehicle. Also, EEMa (250, 500, or 1000 μg/mL) significantly stabilized membrane and produced free radical scavenging activities.

Conclusions:

M. arboreuspossesses anti-inflammatory and the anti-oxidant properties that might benefit translational medicine.
Crystal structure of 2,3-diphenyl-1-[(dipropylamino)acetyl]-1,3-diazaspiro[4.5]decan-4-one, C28H37N3O2
Authors: Hassan Rasha M. , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Aboul-Enein Mohamed N. , El-Azzouny Aida A. , Saleh Ola A. , Attia Mohamed I.
Published: March 2017

C28H37N3O2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 11.0454(4) Å, b = 21.9125(8) Å, c = 11.6544(4) Å, β = 111.783(1)°, V = 2619.33(16) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0658, wRref(F2) = 0.1940, T = 293(2) K.
Adaptation to mid-season drought in a sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam) germplasm collection grown in Mozambique
Authors: Makunde Godwill S. , Andrade Maria I. , Ricardo Jose , Alvaro Abilio , Menomussanga Joana , Gruneberg Wolfgang
Published: March 2017

Drought has negative effects on sweetpotato production. Two experiments with two watering treatments (irrigated and water-stressed) were conducted at Umbeluzi Research Station in 2015. The objectives were to (i) determine response of 48 sweetpotato germplasms to mid-season drought, (ii) determine best traits for improvement of storage root yield under mid-season drought and (iii) assess the selection criteria for identifying drought tolerance in sweetpotato germplasms. The irrigated and water- stressed trials received 640 and 400 mm of water, respectively, throughout the season. Water stress was imposed from 30 to 70 days after planting. Each treatment had two replicates arranged in a randomized complete block design. Data collected on storage root and vine yield and derived drought tolerance indices including harvest index were subjected to analysis of variance in R. Sweetpotato germplasms with high storage root yield under mid-season drought were associated with a high harvest index. Harvest index stability and the geometric mean are key to identifying cultivars with high and stable storage root yield under both treatments. MUSGP0646-126, Irene and Ivone combined both low TOL, SSI, HI and high yield storage root yield across the treatments and over seasons. The use of drought and harvest indices is encouraged for selecting improved cultivars for varied production environments and their regular use in accelerated breeding schemes is suggested.
Aristophanes’ Komödien als Lesetexte
Authors: Zogg Fabian
Published: March 2017

In current research, strongly marked by ‘performance studies’, it is often forgotten that there are at least two approaches in literary research that must concentrate on the reading of Aristophanes’ comedies: As his plays were read for centuries and still are, it is legitimate to pose research questions on the aesthetics of reception and of influence which address the reading of his text. The present paper will argue, further, that Aristophanes’ comedies were conceived right from the start as reading texts. Investigations of their reading are therefore all the more desirable as a complement to ‘performance studies’. In the argument presented here, first the conditions of reading in Aristophanes’ time are sketched out (1). Then it is shown how the poet of comedy was himself a reader, who may have expected a read reception of his own poetic compositions (2). The final part of the paper describes Aristophanes’ environment and asks who may have been among his readership.
Inline surface topography measurements of ultrashort laser pulsed
manufactured micro structures based on low coherence interferometry
Authors: Kunze Rouwen , Schmitt Robert
Published: March 2017

In view of ever-increasing demands on process accuracies and
increasingly narrow tolerance windows in laser micro structuring, the
monitoring of laser processes and the subsequent quality assurance of
the laser-structured products are becoming more and more
important. Functional surface structures to be manufactured by laser
micro structuring are nowadays in the range of 50 μm down
to 10 μm regarding their surface geometries. To cover this
demand, this paper deals with the development of a holistic approach
to scanner-based, coaxial topography measurement by the integration of
a highly accurate inline measuring system into the existing optics of
a laser micro machining system. The combination and implementation of
the laser processing beam and the measuring beam by the same optics is
intended to open up the possibilities of real-time process feedback of
the measurement data for the realization of an adaptively controlled
laser micro structuring process. Therefore, the influence of the
individual system components of the laser beam path on the measurement
beam and induced optical aberrations gets evaluated and
explained. Resulting from this, solutions for improving the system
against these aberrations are developed and evaluated in
a demonstrator setup, implementing the measurement system coaxially
into a laser micro machining beam path.
A homozygous mutation of GNRHR in a familial case diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Caburet Sandrine , Fruchter Ronit Beck , Legois Bérangère , Fellous Marc , Shalev Stavit , Veitia Reiner A
Published: March 2017

Context

PCOS is a heterogeneous condition characterized by hyperandrogenism and chronic anovulation and affects about 10% of women. Its etiology is poorly known, but a dysregulation of gonadotropin secretion is one of its hallmarks.

Objective

As the etiology of PCOS is unclear, we have performed a genome-wide analysis of a consanguineous family with three sisters diagnosed with PCOS.

Methods

Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing confirmation.

Results

Whole-exome sequencing allowed the detection of the missense variant rs104893836 located in the first coding exon of the GNRHR gene and leading to the p.Gln106Arg (p.Q106R) substitution. Sanger sequencing of all available individuals of the family confirmed that the variant was homozygous in the three affected sisters and heterozygous in both parents.

Conclusions

This is the first description of a GNRHR gene mutation in patients diagnosed with PCOS. Although we do not exclude a possible interaction of the identified variant with the genetic background and/or the environment, our result suggests that genetic alterations in the hypothalamo–pituitary axis may play role in the pathogenesis of PCOS.
30 YEARS OF THE MINERALOCORTICOID RECEPTOR: Nongenomic effects via the mineralocorticoid receptor
Authors: Ruhs Stefanie , Nolze Alexander , Hübschmann Ralf , Grossmann Claudia
Published: March 2017

The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) belongs to the steroid hormone receptor family and classically functions as a ligand-dependent transcription factor. It is involved in water-electrolyte homeostasis and blood pressure regulation but independent from these effects also furthers inflammation, fibrosis, hypertrophy and remodeling in cardiovascular tissues. Next to genomic effects, aldosterone elicits very rapid actions within minutes that do not require transcription or translation and that occur not only in classical MR epithelial target organs like kidney and colon but also in nonepithelial tissues like heart, vasculature and adipose tissue. Most of these effects can be mediated by classical MR and its crosstalk with different signaling cascades. Near the plasma membrane, the MR seems to be associated with caveolin and striatin as well as with receptor tyrosine kinases like EGFR, PDGFR and IGF1R and G protein-coupled receptors like AT1 and GPER1, which then mediate nongenomic aldosterone effects. GPER1 has also been named a putative novel MR. There is a close interaction and functional synergism between the genomic and the nongenomic signaling so that nongenomic signaling can lead to long-term effects and support genomic actions. Therefore, understanding nongenomic aldosterone/MR effects is of potential relevance for modulating genomic aldosterone effects and may provide additional targets for intervention.
Syndecan 1 represses cell growth and FSH responsiveness in human granulosa cells
Authors: Colombe Simon , Houllier Laura , Fleurot Emmanuelle , Levallet Guénaëlle , Benhaïm Annie , Bonnamy Pierre-Jacques , Levallet Jérôme
Published: March 2017

Albeit devoid of intrinsic catalytic activity, the transmembrane heparan sulphate proteoglycan syndecan 1 plays critical roles in cellular processes such as extracellular matrix crosstalk, cytoskeletal organization, cell spreading, proliferation and differentiation. During the ovarian cycle, the expression of syndecan 1 in granulosa cells shows cyclic variation suggesting that it might fulfil specific roles in follicle development. To investigate its physiological roles on granulosa cells, syndecan 1 was overexpressed in human granulosa cell line KGN which retains features of granulosa cells from small antral follicle such as estradiol (E2) synthesis and low expression of functional FSH receptor (FSHR). We demonstrated that overexpression of syndecan 1 in immature granulosa cells (KGN-SDC1) induces a profound alteration in their intrinsic characteristics including enhanced spreading and attachment, both associated with a reduced growth rate. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that syndecan 1 overexpression increases the percentage of KGN cells in quiescent phase. This partial cell cycle exit is concordant with downregulated levels ofCCND1andCDK4and upregulated expression of CDK inhibitorCDKN1A. In parallel both unstimulated and FSH-induced E2 synthesis are reduced in KGN-SDC1 through both repression ofCYP19A1andFSHRmRNA associated with decreased levels of potential regulatorsNR5A1andESR2. Additionally, we provide evidence that transient cAMP accumulation reduction in cells overexpressing syndecan 1 is accompanied by an increase in cAMP-hydrolysing PDE activity. Our results demonstrated that syndecan 1 might regulate differentiation of granulosa cells and follicular development by means of various mechanisms involving morphological changes, control of signalling pathways and alterations in gene expressions.

Free French abstract: A French translation of this abstract is freely available athttp://www.reproduction-online.org/content/153/6/797/suppl/DC2
Fisioterapia em jovem gestante com sequelas pós Síndrome de Guillain-Barré: relato de caso
Authors: De Quadros Letícia Ruebenich , Grave Magali Teresinha Quevedo
Published: March 2017

Aims: To describe the assessment, the prescription of physical therapy procedures, and the outcome of a young pregnant woman with Guillain-Barré syndrome.Case Description: A 20-year-old, 12-week pregnant, primiparous woman diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome 6 years ago presented with gait disorders and lumbopelvic pain and sought medical care at the teaching outpatient clinic of physical therapy affiliated with UNIVATES, located in Lajeado, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The examination revealed lower limb hypotrophy, peroneal and tibial denervation, abdominal and paravertebral muscle weakness, thoracic hyperkyphosis, lumbar hyperlordosis, anterior pelvic tilt, and loss of static and dynamic balance. After pregnancy was confirmed, the treatment focused on postural adjustments. The increase in both abdominal strength and proprioception allowed crutch walking. Lumbar hyperlordosis, measured by computed biophotogrammetry, decreased by approximately 20 degrees, comparing the beginning and the end of the same physical therapy session. After 16 weeks of physical therapy, there was increase in the muscle strength of knee extensors and hip flexors bilaterally, from an average of 3.5 and 3 to 5 and 4 degrees, respectively. The patient had an uneventful natural delivery at 37.5 weeks’ gestation, and the neonate was healthy.Conclusions: Physical therapy received by a young pregnant woman with sequelae of Guillain-Barré syndrome was effective in the modulation of muscle tone, respiratory retraining, enhancement of trunk control, improvement of static balance, reduction of postural changes, and relief of lumbopelvic pain, eventually contributing to natural delivery.
O cinema brasileiro diante de um presente incendiário: o filme O Caso dos Irmãos Naves (1967), de Luís Sérgio Person, e o despertar das consciências durante o regime de exceção
Authors: Silva Jaison Castro
Published: March 2017

O artigo analisa as diversas opiniões sobre o filme O Caso dos Irmãos Naves (1967), de Luís Sérgio Person, contidas na crítica cinematográfica da época da estreia do filme, que mobilizaram questões humanistas fundamentais, principalmente no que diz respeito à abordagem das violentas cenas de tortura, muitas vezes acusadas de sadismo, existentes naquela película. Em meio à discussão sobre a narrativa cinematográfica e às possibilidades de apagamento do cineasta frente à representação documental da verdade, despontava o debate sobre como as formas imagéticas de produção de sentido podem mobilizar sentimentos e/ou acionar consciências de maneira política. A abordagem histórica, a partir de referências como Walter Benjamin e Giorgio Agamben, insere-se na discussão sobre visualidade, investigando como, apesar de um quadro de referências comum, o período apresentava diferentes formas de acionar as imagens.
Reflexiones teóricas del fenómeno de repitencia, prolongación, abandono y deserción de estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Jiménez Herrera Luis Guillermo
Published: March 2017

Los estudiantes ingresan a la universidad buscando escalar socialmente; pero, pueden experimentar un fenómeno compuesto primordialmente por la repetición de cursos, la prolongación de los estudios, el abandono y la deserción. En este ensayo se exponen reflexiones teóricas surgidas del análisis de artículos obtenidos de las bases de datos dela Universidad de Costa Rica. Se mencionan los modelos teóricos explicativos de Holland, Vincent Tinto, Bean y Metzner, Levy-Garboua, el psicopedagógico, estructuralista, sociológico y los que permiten los análisis econométricos de supervivencia. Se concibe que existen causas provenientes de todos los actores involucrados, previas y durante elperiodo universitario, intrínsecos o extrínsecos, tanto positivos como negativos; a las personas, a la universidad y al sistema educativo en general.
Poesía y Música: correspondencias y despliegue expresivo en la poesía nicaragüense del siglo XX: Pallais, Cardenal y Téllez
Authors: Chen Sham Jorge
Published: March 2017

Las relaciones entre Poesía y Música están en el origen mismo de la conformación del género de la lírica. El carácter delectable y los efectos sugestivos del lenguaje en la asociación entre belleza y ornamentación de la palabra dan paso a relaciones de correspondencia, cuando la Poesía plantea relaciones intertextuales o intersemióticas con la música.Desde las teorías estéticas del Romanticismo, estas correspondencias conducen a la teoría expresiva del lenguaje poético y, para ello, el poeta debe privilegiar el proceso psicológico-perceptivo, cuando la música se convierte en forma “simbólica” y “trascendente”, tanto el énfasis en el efecto compositivo-estructural así como en la estructura del poema, con el fin de que las correspondencias sean palpables y analizables. El corpus del artículo es Azarías H. Pallais y su libro Caminos (1925), en donde la sección “Los caminos del crepúsculo” retoma la oración del ángelus desde el ritual de las vísperas con el canto gregoriano; Ernesto Cardenal y sus Salmos (1964), específicamente el “Salmo 150”, que cierra con explosión musical y cósmica, al remitir al finale de la Quinta Sinfonía de Beethoven; y Fánor Téllez, con su poemario Oficio de amarte (1999), en donde realiza un elogio y una alabanza al trovador y a su concepción de la lira amatoria en “La canción por ti encendida”.
Estilos de vida, nivel de actividad física y prevalencia de obesidad de la población estudiantil universitaria
Authors: Loría Calderón Tyrone Mauricio
Published: March 2017

La conducta sedentaria es una amenaza importante para la salud y calidad de vida, aumentando el factor de riesgode desarrollo de enfermedades no transmisibles y la muerte prematura. Es importante para comprender los patrones sedentarios y su relación con otros factores de riesgo, como la obesidad; este artículo busca describir el estilo de vida,el nivel de sedentarismo, la actividad física y la prevalencia de la obesidad en los estudiantes de la Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR), Recinto de Tacares. Ciento veintiún estudiantes informaron de su actividad física regular dentro de una semana normal de clases y una semana de descanso académico. Los resultados de este estudio muestran que los estudiantes pasaron la mayor parte de su tiempo en la conducta sedentaria y el comportamiento sedentario también está significativamente relacionado con un IMC superior.
A novel communication application to encourage social interaction by children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Graham Hannah , Bond Alice , McCormick Mariette , Hobbs Ollie , Yoo Chris , Gupta Swati , Mulligan Hilda , King Marcus
Published: March 2017

Difficulty with social interactions is a feature of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and can be present in children who have other developmental disorders. A novel application using computer technology was designed by Callaghan Innovation to improve social interaction in this population by assisting casual conversation between two people with minimal external facilitation. We compared the application with the children’s existing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices and Picture Communication Symbols (PCS™). A sample of three pairs (n = 6) of adolescents, who have a diagnosis of ASD or another developmental condition affecting their social interaction and communication, were videotaped and analysed using all three modes. The new application provided better social interaction, attention, independence and enjoyment than the existing systems.
Physiotherapy management of patients undergoing lumbar spinal surgery: A survey of Australian physiotherapists
Authors: Gilmore Sarah J. , McClelland Jodie A. , Davidson Megan
Published: March 2017

Physiotherapists are commonly involved in the management of patients immediately before and after spinal surgery, however there is currently little known about what constitutes physiotherapy intervention in the hospital setting. This research aimed to describe the current physiotherapy practice in Australia for the peri-operative management of adults undergoing lumbar spinal surgery. A telephone survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire format. All Australian hospitals that admit one or more patients per week for lumbar spinal surgery were invited to take part in the survey. Sixty-four interviews were conducted (response rate 79%). All participating hospitals provided a physiotherapy service for patients undergoing lumbar spinal surgery, with the majority commencing the day following surgery. Physiotherapy intervention consistently included mobility and functional task training, exercise prescription and provision of an educational handout. However, there was considerable variability in the type of exercises prescribed, the advice given regarding post-operative movement and activity restrictions, the use of outcome measurement tools, and referral to inpatient and outpatient physiotherapy services. This survey provides physiotherapists and rehabilitation service providers with information regarding current clinical practice, and identifies the key focus areas for future research into the effectiveness of specific physiotherapy interventions.
THE ROLE OF INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES IN THE INITIATION AND COURSE OF ACNE: A MODERN VIEW
Authors: Kormilitcyna A. V. , Kalinina N. M.
Published: March 2017

The publication provides an overview of current scientific and medical literature devoted to the study of mechanisms of immunopathogenesis of acne. The concept of the pathophysiology and immunopathogenesis of acne expanded significantly in recent years, many scientists have pointed out the link between the presence of acne and disorders of the endocrine, nervous, digestive and immune systems. Despite the fact that the individual links in the pathogenesis of acne are well studied, there are still questions about the role of commensal Propionibacterium acnes in the initiation and development of acne. So far there is no information on the number of P. acnes in healthy and diseased skin, the relationship between the numder of P. acnes and severity of the disease, also an important question remains unanswered — why do P. acnes cause inflammation for some people, while it don`t for the others? Despite the presence of bacterial factor in the pathogenesis of acne, there are a large number of studies showing that the nature of the patient’s immune response to P. acnes is more important than the infectious agent. For quite a long time data was received that proinflammatory cytokines play an important role in the initiation of acne. Interleukins IL-6 and IL-8 are involved in the stimulation of sebum hypersecretion, and subpopulation Th1 derived from a patient with acne, recognize P. acnes antigens. A number of recently obtained results suggest that P. acnes is a potent inducer of Th17 and Th1, and the study of the role of proinflammatory cytokines in the development of acne suggests new possibilities of acne therapy. Presented in this article is a clinical case clearly illustrates the part of the immune inflammation in acne. Prospective areas of research on the role of signaling molecules in the pathogenesis of acne are covered: such as the mechanism of action of nitric oxide on the secretion of interleukin IL-1 beta, which was shown as a dominant etiological factor in acne vulgaris, as well as an attempt to establish a link between the concentration of the neuropeptide substance P in the serum and the intensity psychological stress in the patients with acne in comparison with those in healthy persons. From the presented literature review it is shown that the immunopathogenesis of acne itself, as well as its connection with disturbances of the nervous, endocrine and digestive systems are the subject of intensive study of both dermatologists and clinical immunologists, who are inquired by patients with acne.
Serious Games are a Serious Tool for Team Research
Authors: Coovert Michael D. , Winner Jennifer , Bennett Winston , Howard David J.
Published: March 2017

Serious games are an attractive tool for education and training, but their utility is even broader. We argue serious games provide a unique opportunity for research as well, particularly in areas where multiple players (groups or teams) are involved. In our paper we provide background in several substantive areas. First, we outline major constructs and challenges found in team research. Secondly, we discuss serious games, providing an overview and description of their role in education, training, and research. Thirdly, we describe necessary characteristics for game engines utilized in team research, followed by a discussion of the value added by utilizing serious games. Our goal in this paper is to argue serious games are an effective tool with demonstrated reliability and validity and should be part of a research program for those engaged in team research. Both team researchers and those involved in serious game development can benefit from a mutual partnership which is research focused.
Characterisation of vumba and ubumba clays used for cosmetic purposes
Authors: Morekhure-Mphahlele Refilwe , Focke Walter W. , Grote Wiebke
Published: March 2017

Two traditional cosmetic clays bear similar names in different local South African languages: vumba (Tshivenda) and ubumba (isiZulu). The wet clays are applied topically for cosmetic purposes by the respective indigenous peoples. Six samples from two South African provinces were characterised using X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the samples differed widely with respect to mineralogy and chemical composition. This finding raises the possibility that texture characteristics during application on the skin override composition effects. Of concern is the high levels of quartz found in all the samples as it might pose a health hazard; the lowest value for quartz was 11 wt% for vumba, while values for ubumba ranged from 26 wt% to 85 wt%. All samples contained varying amounts of silicates in the form of smectite, kaolin, chlorite and plagioclase. Minor amounts of anatase and rutile were present in some samples. Three samples also contained goethite. All samples were essentially free from the toxic elements As, Pb, Hg, Cd, Se and Sb. However, they did contain low levels of chromium and heavy metals such as Cu, Zn and Ni. The pH values of ubumba slurries were slightly basic, while those of a vumba slurry were slightly acidic.

Significance: 

Wide ranges of composition appear to be acceptable.
The clays do not contain highly toxic or radioactive elements.
The high levels of quartz present may pose a human health risk.
Golden Gate Primer Design v1
Authors: D. Weyman Philip
Published: March 2017

An easy to follow template for adding Golden Gate adapters to PCR primers.
Minority Embeddedness and Economic Integration: Is Diversity or Homogeneity Associated with Better Employment Outcomes?
Authors: Demireva Neli , Heath Anthony
Published: March 2017

Using data from the Managing Cultural Diversity Survey 2010 and the Ethnic Minority British Election Study 2010, we explore the activity and employment outcomes of majority and minority individuals in the UK, and examine their association with a variety of ethnic embeddedness measures. We do not find that white British respondents living in areas of high deprivation and diversity experience lower levels of economic activity or bad jobs. Deprivation rather than minority embeddedness stands out as the factor that serves to compound both majority and minority disadvantage. In the case of minorities, embeddedness does have some negative effects, although these are greatly attenuated once one takes into account the level of area deprivation.
Mean platelet volume as an indicator of severity of hypertensive retinopathy in hypertensive subjects
Authors: Yadav Vishal , Jain Pragya , Singhai Abhishek , Jha Rajesh Kumar
Published: March 2017

Background: Hypertensive retinopathy (HR) represents the ophthalmic findings of end-organ damage secondary to systemic arterial hypertension. Platelets play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic complications, contributing to thrombus formation or apposition after plaque rupture. The aim of our study was to investigate whether Mean platelet volume (MPV) is associated with the severity of hypertensive retinopathy in hypertensive patients.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Medicine of SAMC and PGI, Indore. Total 250 adult hypertensive patients (BP >140/90 mm Hg or taking antihypertensive drugs) recruited for the study.Results: Of the 250 subjects, 158 (63.2%) were male and 92 (36.8%) were female. Elevated MPV >11.5 femtoliter was observed in 84 cases (33.6%). There was statistically significant relationship between the grade of retinopathy and elevated MPV in hypertensive subjects. (r = 0.52, P <0.001).Conclusions: We described a relation between MPV and HR (probably first time in Indian patients). Measurement of MPV is easy to establish and therefore might serve as a valuable predictor of a worse outcome in microvascular complications.
Role of high resolution sonography and color Doppler flow imaging in the evaluation of scrotal pathology
Authors: Gupta Ashish Kumar , S. Shrinuvasan , Shetty Srikanth Sanjeev , R. Chidambaram
Published: March 2017

Background: Scrotal swelling and pain are frequently encountered in clinical practice. Although to reach a diagnosis in some patients, history and physical examination are adequate, yet in a large percentage of patients, some additional studies are essential for complete evaluation of their symptoms. The clinical examination is often misleading or non-specific. The study shows the application of Gray-scale sonography, Color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) and Power Doppler (PD) in the diagnosis of swelling, malposition, torsion, trauma, varicocele, hydrocele, cyst, mass, and atrophy.Methods: A total of 93 patients from all age groups with symptoms related to scrotal disease have been included in this study. Gray-scale sonography, CDFI and PD sonography of scrotal lesions were carried out.Results: A good correlation was seen in the comparison of scrotal lesions between sonography (gray scale, CDFI, and PD) and histopathology/ treatment response.Conclusions: High-resolution sonography, along with color Doppler flow imaging and power Doppler should be used as the first-line investigation in the evaluation of scrotal pathologies. Color Doppler flow Imaging and power Doppler add useful information and complement gray-scale sonography in reaching a correct diagnosis.
Study on prevalence of hypothyroidism in ST segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: K. R. Sreevidya , B. Renymol
Published: March 2017

Background: Both subclinical and overt hypothyroidism have effects on myocardial contractility and cardiovascular haemodynamics. In addition, changes in lipids, low levels of inflammation, elevated homocysteine etc. contribute to accelerated atherosclerosis and increased cardio vascular mortality and morbidity in hypothyroidism. In this study, we tried to find out the prevalence of hypothyroidism in patients admitted with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction. We also tried to assess the BMI, diastolic BP and lipid profile of these patients.Methods: A cross sectional study was done among patients admitted with ST elevation myocardial infarction in Coimbatore Medical College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India. We collected information on BMI, blood pressure, lipid profile and thyroid function of these patients.Results: The prevalence of hypothyroidism was found to be 14% in patients admitted with ST elevation MI. Hypothyroidism was three times more common in women. Patients with hypothyroidism was found to have higher BMI, elevated total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL which was statistically significant. Higher prevalence of diastolic hypertension was also seen among hypothyroid patients.Conclusions: Thyroid hormone has various actions on heart. Hypothyroidism has increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The associated risk factors like obesity, hyperlipidaemia and diastolic hypertension contribute to this. Patients with coronary artery disease should be screened for hypothyroidism.
A prospective study for hearing screening of 4356 newborns by transient evoked oto-acoustic emissions and brainstem evoked response audiometry: a study of high risk factors for hearing loss
Authors: Singh Pradeep Kumar , Kumar Nishant , Kumar Dheeraj , Shrivastava Nisha , Kumar Abhishek
Published: March 2017

Background: A child’s normal speech and language development depends on the ability to hear. Early detection of hearing loss by screening at or shortly after birth and appropriate intervention are critical to speech, language and cognitive development. Objectives were to describe socio-epidemiological profile of newborns for hearing loss screening by transient evoked oto-acoustic emissions (TEOAE) and brainstem evoked response audiometry (BERA) in Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi, Jharkhand, India during 18 months period (June 2015- November 2016), and to study association between hearing loss and risk factors.Methods: This prospective study was done on 4356 newborns for hearing screening by TEOAE in maternity ward and NICU and BERA in those noted “refer” on retest TEOAE at RIMS, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India during the period of 18 months (June 2015 - November 2016). Follow- up done by visits and phone calls. Templates were generated in MS excel sheet and data analysis was done using SPSS software (version 20).Results: Study showed 3.90/1000 newborns were noted “refer” on retest TEOAE. Hearing loss (BERA- Fail) is slightly more common in males (2.20/1000 newborns), of rural areas (2.44/1000 newborns), tribal ethnicity (2.75/1000  newborns) and those delivered by lower section caesarean section (LSCS) (4.47/1000 newborns). Hearing loss noted in 2.07/1000 newborns. Among high risk newborns 21.41/1000 newborns were noted “refer” on retest TEOAE and 11.53 were found BERA fail.Conclusions: Hearing loss was 21.71 times more common in newborns associated with high risk factors, mainly low birth weight and preterm newborns.
Antepartum posterior encephalopathy syndrome: a case study
Authors: Garg Swati , Shekhawat Shivani , Jain Srishti
Published: March 2017

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is increasingly being recognised as a clinic-neuro-radiological complication of eclampsia, with the availability of better imaging techniques. Preeclampsia and eclampsia continues to be one of the leading cause of both maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. PRES is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge when it develops in a case of preeclampsia. Reported here a case of 21 years old primi gravida, presenting in emergency OPD with 30 weeks pregnancy, history of seizures and in unconscious state. She was diagnosed to have PRES by imaging. PRES is associated with various clinical conditions i.e. hypertensive encephalopathy, renal failure, auto immune disorders and treatment with cytotoxic medication and presence with headache, encephalopathy, seizures, cortical visual disturbances or blindness. Early recognition of the condition with prompt management can prevent permanent neurological damage antihypertensive, control of seizures and anti-oedema measures are the main stay of the treatment as prompt control of BP will cause reversal of the syndrome. Clinical improvement with prompt resolution of the neurological deficit in the reported case highlights the importance of early suspicion, diagnosis and management of PRES in order to prevent short and long term neurological damage.
Meckel’s diverticulum: a cadaveric case report
Authors: Sharma Shreya , Sharma Preksha , Chauhan Sangita
Published: March 2017

Meckel's diverticulum is the common congenital anamoly of the gastrointentestinal tract, caused due to failure of involution of vitelline duct after seventh or eighth week of intra-uterine life. It is usually present within the last 90cm of terminal ileum.  Histologically, Meckel's diverticulum consists of all layers of small intestine. Rarely, heterotopic tissue is present derived from gastric or pancreatic tissue. In the case presented here, Meckel's diverticulum was found on the ante mesenteric border of the ileum with no peritoneal attachment during routine Anatomy cadaveric dissection. It was present 26cm proximal to the ileocecal junction, with no attachment to umbilicus. It’s blood supply was derived from the vitelline artery. Histological examination revealed the presence of 3 layers: mucosa, submucosa and muscularis propria with no heterotopic tissue.
Association of risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus and fasting blood glucose levels among residents of rural area of Delhi: a cross sectional study
Authors: Adhikary Mrinmoy , Chellaiyan Vinoth Gnana , Chowdhury Ranadip , Daral Shailaja , Taneja Neha , Das Timiresh Kumar
Published: March 2017

Background: Diabetes mellitus has reached epidemic proportions globally. India has largest number of diabetic population constituting major proportion worldwide. The epidemic of diabetes in India is due to the rapid epidemiological transition attributed to changes in dietary patterns and decreased physical activity apart from the role of genetic factors in the disease causation. The objectives of the study was to assess the risk factors of type 2 diabetes and to find the relation between risk factors of type 2 diabetes and fasting capillary blood glucose level among the study population.Methods: A cross sectional community based study was carried out using a semi structured, pretested, questionnaire among 432 study subjects aged 30 years and above in a randomly selected sahoorpur village under Fatehpur Beri primary health centre. The study duration was from March 2011 to February 2012. Means and proportions were calculated. Multivariate logistic regression was applied. Results: The mean (SD) age of the study population was 45 (±11.9) years. Positive family history of Diabetes was present in 14.4% of study population. History of smoking and alcohol was found in 37.5% and 8.3% respectively. Prevalence of overweight and obesity was 48.8% and 17.2% respectively. Regression showed age more than 60 years (OR 1.135, 95% CI 0.037 – 0.492), family history of diabetes (OR 4.181, 95% CI 1.734 – 10.083), higher waist circumference (OR 13.414, 95% CI 4.991 – 36.051), sedentary work (OR 3.133, 95% CI 0.032 – 0.592), obesity (OR 4.709, 95% CI 1.790 – 12.394) had higher odds of having higher fasting capillary blood glucose level. Conclusions: The study found a higher prevalence of risk factors among the study population. Risk factors showed a significant relation with higher fasting capillary blood glucose. There is a mandate for health education to motivate change in lifestyle modification among the study population.
High prevalence and associated risk factors of dehydration among college students: implications for health and academic performance
Authors: Ekpenyong Christopher E. , Akpan Itoro-Abasi M.
Published: March 2017

Background: Existing data indicate that poor hydration status adversely affects academic performance and health status of college students, but hydration studies among students have not received sufficient research and educational attention. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of dehydration among college students in Southern Nigeria.Methods: A total of 500 students (190 males and 310 females), ages between 18 and 35 years filled out a supervised questionnaire which included questions pertaining to socio-demographics, lifestyle habits, perceived symptoms, academic performance, urinary characteristics and water/fluid intake. Hydration status was determined using urinary specific gravity during the month of October 2016. Mean values were calculated and used to determine the hydration status of participants. Multivariable regression analysis was used to determine odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval for factors associated with poor hydration status of participants.Results: About 46.4% of participants were dehydrated. Insufficient water intake (OR=6.41, 95% CI:2.121-19.385, P=0.001), alcohol drinking habits (OR=4.17, 95% CI: 1.313-13.258, P=0.015), night clubbing habits (OR=2.51, 95% CI:1.261-3.822, P=0.034) and being exposed to hot environment (OR=2.16, 95% CI:1.998-4.656, P=0.041) were factors associated with increased odds of dehydration among participants. Other factors associated with higher odds of dehydration include regular coffee intake (OR=2.93, 95% CI:1.788-5.622, P=0.017), experiencing academic stress (OR=1.53, 95% CI:1.041-2.251, P=0.031) and having parents or guardians of middle or low SES (OR=2.21, 95% CI:1.70-4.267, P=0.42) and (OR=3.42, 95% CI:1.655-7.82, P=0.015) respectively.Conclusions: Indeed, there is a high prevalence of dehydration and associated risk factors among college students. Intervention programs to reduce dehydration among students should include these factors among others for improved quality of life and academic performance.
A cross sectional study reflecting association between common menstrual disorders and college absenteeism
Authors: Shete Jagannath S.
Published: March 2017

Background: Menstrual disorders affect half of all female adolescents and represent leading cause of periodic college absenteeism but awareness regarding health seeking behaviour is less. Objective was to study association between common menstrual disorders and college absenteeism in first and second year medical students in Mumbai. Methods: 150 female students from first and second year MBBS were included in the study. Research tool comprised of questions about demographic characteristics, age at menarche, menstrual cycle pattern, complaints and its impact on daily activities including college absenteeism. Behaviour towards health and knowledge about menstrual cycle was observed. Percentage and chi square values were calculated using SPSS 16. The study was conducted in period between August to October 2012. Results: 150 first and second year female medical students participated in the study. Their mean age was 19.5 yrs. Mean age of menarche was 13-14 years in 78%. Menstrual cycle was regular in 72.6%. Menstrual flow was average in 73.3% of respondents and 88% reported duration as 3-5 days. 92% respondents had painful menses especially reporting moderate pain in 78% while in 70% of those pain resolved on its own. 67.4% reported mother as source of menstrual cycle information. Although menstrual disorder was cause of college absenteeism of 1-2 days in 44% students, 88% students didn’t seek medical advice for menstrual disorders. Conclusions: Improving health seeking behaviour towards common menstrual problems can reduce college absenteeism.
Misleading allegations against Apollo Hospital, Gandhinagar for continuing ventilator on a dead patient
Authors: Parikh Purvish M. , Gulia Ashish , Gandhi U.
Published: March 2017

Recently, the family of a deceased woman has blamed the Apollo Hospital located in Gandhinagar of ventilator on the patient even after she was dead (post pregnancy complications). They made this allegation to the Rakhiyal police station of Dehgam Taluka, Gandhinagar district.
Effects of lactobacillus casei probiotic on mild to moderate ulcerative colitis: a placebo controlled study
Authors: Vejdani Reyhaneh , Bahari Ali , Zadeh Abdolrahim Masjedi , Azmi Mehrdad , Ebrahimi-Daryani Naser , Hashtroudi Ali Asad , Mehr Ali Jafari , Abdollahi Morteza , Sayyah Alireza , Zali Mohammad Reza , Bari Zohreh , Bakhshipour Alireza
Published: March 2017

Background: The effects of probiotics on ulcerative colitis has still remained a contraversy. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of Lactobacillus casei strain ATCC PTA-3945 in treating ulcerative colitis. Materials and Methods: Thirty four patients with mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis randomly received a probiotic preparation of L. casei strain ATCC PTA-3945 (n = 17) or its placebo (n = 17) plus conventional medical therapy for their active disease. After a maximum of 2 months, remitted patients were again randomised to receive L. casei strain ATCC PTA-3945 or placebo, and also maintained on mesalazine or sulfasalazine tablets for a maximum of 6 months. Results: The numbers of patients achieving remission did not statistically differ between probiotic and placebo groups (82% vs. 76% at intention to treat analysis [P = 1.00], and 100% vs. 81.2% at per-protocol analysis [P = 0.23], respectively). The mean time to clinical remission were 25 days and 32 days in probiotic and placebo groups, respectively (P = 0.11). Relapse rates also did not significantly differ between probiotic and placebo groups (14.3% vs. 26.7% at ITT analysis [P = 0.65] and 16.7% vs. 33.3% [P = 0.64], respectively). Mean time to relapse were 96 days and 74 days in the probiotic and the placebo group, respectively (P = 0.51). Conclusion: The results of this preliminary study showed no significant effect by using L. casei strain ATCC PTA-3945 probiotic in the treatment of ulcerative colitis patients.

 
ÍNDICE DE CRISTALINIDADE DA ILITA E CARACTERIZAÇÃO DOS ARGILOMINERAIS DA FORMAÇÃO PIMENTA BUENO – BACIA DOS PARECIS
Authors: Paiva Jéssica Melanya Sisti de , Battilani Gislaine Amorés , Viana Rubia Ribeiro , Reis Maurício José dos
Published: March 2017

ResumoA Bacia dos Parecis é uma das maiores bacias intracratônicas brasileiras e poucos são os estudos relacionados à sua gênese. A Formação Pimenta Bueno, objeto desse estudo, é constituída, da base para o topo, de calcários, folhelhos, siltitos e arenitos. O presente estudo tem como principal objetivo estimar o provável estágio diagenético/metamórfico em que essas rochas foram submetidas, por meio do estudo de difratogramas de raios-X da fração argila e dos parâmetros do Índice de Kübler (Índice de Cristalinidade da Ilita). Os resultados indicam que essas rochas encontram-se na Epizona e, a média das medidas da largura a meia altura (FWHM) é de 0,16°. A análise de difratometria de raios – X indicou a presença de clorita, ilita, pirofilita, caulinita e esmectita (montmorilonita). Além das espécies bem definidas, identificou-se, também, argilominerais interestratificados de ilita/esmectita e clorita/esmectita.Palavras Chave: Cristalinidade da ilita; Bacia dos Parecis; Formação Pimenta Bueno.AbstractINDEX CRYSTALLINITY OF ILLITE AND CHARACTERIZATION CLAY MINERALS OF PIMENTA BUENO FORMATION – PARECIS BASIN. The Parecis basin is one of the largest Brazilian intracratonic basins and few are the studies related to its genesis. Pimenta Bueno Formation, object of this study, is represented, from bottom to top, by limestones, shales, siltstones and sandstones. To achieve the objectives of this study, knowing the diagenetic stage and / or metamórphic degree to which were subjected the Parecis Basin rocks, were developed diffraction studies of X-ray of the clay fraction, followed by the calculation of the Kübler Index parameters (crystallinity of iIlita). The results indicated that these rocks are at the Epizone and the average width measured at half height (FWHM) is 0.16 °. The X-ray diffraction indicated the presence of the chlorite, illite, pyrophyllite, kaolinite and smectite (montmorillonite). Likewise were identified interstratified phases of Illite/ smectite and chlorite / smectite.Keywords: Crystallinity of Ilita; Parecis Basin; Pimenta Bueno Formation.