bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stochastic Modeling of Forces on Jacket-Type Offshore Structures Colonized by Marine Growth
Authors: Ameryoun Hamed , Schoefs Franck , Barille Laurent , Thomas Yoann
Published: April 2019

The present paper deals with the stochastic modeling of bio-colonization for the computation of stochastic hydrodynamic loading on jacket-type offshore structures. It relies on a multidisciplinary study gathering biological and physical research fields that accounts of uncertainties at all the levels. Indeed, bio-colonization of offshore structures is a complex phenomenon with two major but distinct domains (i) marine biology whose processes are modeled with biomathematics methods and (ii) hydrodynamic processes. This paper aims to connect these two domains. It proposes a stochastic model for the marine organism’s growth and then continues with transfers for assessment of drag coefficient and forces probability density functions that accounts for marine growth evolution. A case study relies on the characteristics (growth and shape) of the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) in northeastern Atlantic.
ANALISIS KELAYAKAN MESIN PENGERING KERIPIK KENTANG
Authors: Prasnowo M. Adhi , Nurdin Shafiq , Ahlan Ahlan
Published: April 2019

Batu City is a tourist destination for domestic and foreign tourists because it have variety of tourist destinations that have been managed properly. The development of tourist destinations that increases rapidly, making the businessmen souvenirs typical of Batu City growing. It is also felt by potato chips entrepreneurs, who are experiencing increased demand. But entrepreneurs increasingly difficult to increase the amount of productivity, because the technology used to produce potato chips is still simple. So that can not meet the needs of a very high market. This study aims to determine the economic viability of potato chips dryer. The method used in this research is Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR). Based on the financial feasibility analysis of potato chips dryer machine using electric energy is feasible to be implemented because the value of NPV is greater than zero which is IDR. 5.233.433 and IRR value 22% greater than the current interest rate of 12% with the project period of 5 years.
Rapid Crosslinking Polymer Provides an Additional Blowout-Preventer Barrier
Authors: Nedwed Tim , Kulkarni Kaustubh , Jain Rachna , Mitchell Doug , Meeks Bill , Allen Daryl P. , Edgecombe Brian , Cruce Christopher J.
Published: April 2019

The industry maintains well control through proper well design and appropriate controls and barriers. This has made a hydrocarbon release from loss of well control a very–low–probability event. The current final barrier to maintain control is a valve system [blowout preventer (BOP)] located on top of wells, capable of isolating them by sealing around or shearing through obstructions that might be in the well (e.g., drillpipe and casing). Although the risk is low, there are still concerns regarding well control, especially for operations in sensitive environments. Adding an additional barrier could alleviate these concerns. We are currently evaluating a concept to respond to BOP seal failure by injecting a liquid monomer and a catalyst below a BOP leak point to rapidly form a polymer–plug seal.

Mixtures of dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) and other monomers mixed with a ruthenium–based catalyst cause a rapid polymerization reaction that forms a stable solid. These reactions can occur under extreme temperatures and pressures and can withstand significant contamination from other fluids and solids.

Laboratory studies showed that DCPD–based polymer plugs can withstand axial stress of 100 MPa (15,000 psi) without significant deformation, even at temperatures of 200°C and with 20 wt% synthetic–based–drilling–fluid contamination. Viscosity testing performed at 4°C showed that the liquid monomers and catalyst used to form polymers have viscosities low enough to allow rapid injection into a leaking BOP. Polymerization–reaction rates were not affected by the presence of high levels of drilling–fluid contamination or varying reaction temperatures. In all cases, reactions were rapid (less than 45 seconds) and resulted in the formation of solid polymers.
Design and Calculation of Complex Directional-Well Trajectories on the Basis of the Minimum-Curvature Method
Authors: Wang Zhiyue , Gao Deli , Yang Jiawei
Published: April 2019

The vector-algebra method and the minimum-curvature method were used to solve the trajectory design challenge for intersecting two wells. In accordance with known parameters, we expressed algorithms for intersecting a horizontal well. The geometrical shape of the target area was extended to attain the algorithms needed for landing on spherical and cylindrical surfaces. Combined with the expression for calculating the tool-face angle, the algorithms needed for calculating the closest distance to an existing well and landing surface were also proposed. The algorithms presented here provide a theoretical basis for the design and control of complex directional-well trajectories.
Short-Term and Long-Term Mechanical Models of Wellbores Considering Cement Consolidation and Formation Creep
Authors: Huang Wenjun , Gao Deli , Liu Yinghua
Published: April 2019

With oil and gas wells extending deeper and deeper, downhole conditions become increasingly complicated, and thus increasingly sophisticated wellbore models are needed. Current wellbore models usually neglect the coupling effect in the cement–consolidation process and do not sufficiently consider the whole operation process of the wellbore. To overcome these shortcomings, short–term and long–term mechanical wellbore models while considering the relevant stages in wellbore life are built. In the short–term model, wellbore–operation stages include casing running, cement displacement, and cement consolidation. The governing equation of cement consolidation while considering the coupling effect between cement hardening and volume change is presented. In the long–term model, the governing equation of formation creep while considering prestresses and initial strains is given. The elastic/viscoelastic–correspondence principle and stress–superposition method are used to simplify the derivation. Next, the effects of relevant factors on short–term and long–term wellbore stresses are analyzed. The results show that wellbore stresses caused by cement consolidation will be underestimated when the coupling effects are neglected. The most vulnerable positions for wellbore failure are on different cylinder elements under different wellbore stages. Wellbore properties, short–term stresses, and formation creep greatly affect wellbore mechanical behaviors. Therefore, the new model provides an important basis for wellbore–failure prediction and optimal design.
A case report of spontaneously healed isolated posterior inferior cerebellar artery dissection with headache only
Authors: Kishi Yo
Published: April 2019

Background
Isolated posterior inferior cerebellar artery dissections can cause subarachnoid hemorrhages or infarctions. Surgical and endovascular treatments for hemorrhagic stroke cases and medical treatments using antithrombotic agents for ischemic stroke cases have been performed, but there are very few reports on nonstroke posterior inferior cerebellar artery dissections, and the treatment strategy for nonstroke cases has not been established. This is the first detailed report on a spontaneously healed, isolated posterior inferior cerebellar artery dissection with headache only, followed by high-resolution MRI examinations.
Case presentation
A 48-year-old healthy male felt a severe, throbbing headache on the right side and came to the OIKE Clinic on the fourth day following onset. MRI examinations revealed a right posterior inferior cerebellar artery dissection and showed no infarctions or hemorrhages. He was observed carefully with continuous monitoring of blood pressure, hydrated sufficiently, and given analgesic anti-inflammatory agents. Two weeks later, the dissected vessel’s diameter grew to the maximum size, though the patient’s headache rapidly improved around that day. Surgical or endovascular treatments for prevention of subarachnoid hemorrhage were recommended, but careful conservative therapy was continued in accordance with the patient’s wishes. Gradually, the dissection finding improved. Four months later, MRI examinations showed his right posterior inferior cerebellar artery was almost normal in size and shape.
Conclusions
This is the first detailed report on a spontaneously occurred and healed iPICAD with headache only, observed by serial high-resolution MRI examinations.
Risk factors for postoperative stroke in adults patients with moyamoya disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Wei Wei , Chen Xin , Jun Yu , Li Xuqin
Published: April 2019

Background

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to clarify the risk factors for postoperative stroke in adult patients with moyamoya disease (MMD).

Methods

We comprehensively searched MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for eligible published literature with regard to the risk factors and postoperative complications in adult patients with MMD. Statistical analysis was conducted using Stata version 12.0. Pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were assessed for each risk factor.

Results

There were 8 studies encompassing 1649 patients who underwent surgery with MMD were selected for analysis. Preoperative ischemic event significantly increase the risk of postoperative stroke events (OR=1.40; 95%CI=1.02–1.92; P=0.039). PCA involvement correlate with an increased risk of post-infarction (OR=4.60; 95%CI=2.61–8.11; P=0.000). Compared to direct bypass, patients who underwent indirect bypass or combined bypass could significantly increase the risk of postoperative stroke events. (OR=1.17; 95%CI=1.03–1.33; p=0.017). MMD patients with diabetes were associated with an increased risk of postoperative stroke events (OR=4.02, 95% CI=1.59-10.16; p=0.003). MMD patients with hypertension, age at onset and male sex were not associated with an increased risk of postoperative stroke events (P>0.05).

Conclusions

This systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that preoperative ischemic events, PCA involvement and diabetes were independent risk factors for postoperative stroke in MMD patients. Therefore, in order to ensure the curative effect of patients with MMD, it is very necessary to detect these risk factors and prevent postoperative complications in time.
Changes in Vessel Density of the Patients with Narrow Antenior Chamber after an Acute Intraocular Pressure Elevation Observed by OCT Angiography
Authors: Ma Zi-wei , Qiu Wen-han , Zhou Dan-ni , Yang Wei-hua , Pan Xue-feng , Chen Hong
Published: April 2019

Background:Although the pathogenesis of glaucoma is not fully understood ,an elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a major factor contributing to its development and progression. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the vessel densities of the macula and optic nerve head (ONH) after an acute elevation in the intraocular pressure (IOP) observed using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).
Methods: This was a prospective comparative study of subjects with narrow anterior chamber angles who underwent laser peripheral iridotomies (LPIs). The IOP was measured before and one hour after the LPI. The retinal vessel densities of the macula and ONH were measured using OCTA at the baseline and one hour after the LPI.
Results: A total of 64 eyes of 51 individuals were enrolled in this study, and 58 eyes of 43 individuals finally completed the study with a mean IOP rise of 10.5 ± 7.6 mmHg after the LPI. Based on the magnitude of the rise in the IOP, we divided the subjects into three groups: group A = IOP rise ≤ 10 mmHg, group B = 10 mmHg < IOP rise ≤ 20 mmHg, and group C = IOP rise > 20 mmHg. The vessel density did not differ after the acute IOP elevation in either the macular region or papillary region in group A or group B (p > 0.05), but there was a significant difference in group C (p < 0.05). However, when the subjects were not separated into groups, the vessel densities of the ONH and macular region did not differ between the measurements obtained at the baseline and one hour after the LPI (p>0.05). The correlation existed in peripapillary and macular vessel density (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: In these subjects with narrow antenior chamber, an acute mild or moderate IOP elevation for one hour after the LPI did not affect the vessel density in the macula or ONH, as examined using OCTA. However, when the IOP rise was greater than 20 mmHg, the macular and papillary vessel density decreased significantly.
Intensive Phase Treatment Outcome and Associated Factors among Patients Treated for Multi Drug Resistant Tuberculosis in Ethiopia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Molie Teklu , Teklemariam Zelalem , Klinkenberg Eveline , Dessie Yadeta , Kumsa Andargachew , Mohammed Hussen , Debebe Adisalem , Assefa Dawit , Habte Abebe , Bedru Ahmed , Fiseha Daniel , Seyoum Berhanu
Published: April 2019

Background

Multi-drug resistant Tuberculosis (MDRTB) is a strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that is resistant to at least Rifampicin and Isoniazid drugs. The treatment success rate for MDRTB cases is lower than for drug susceptible TB. Monitoring the early treatment outcome and better understanding the specific reasons for early unfavorable treatment outcome are important to evaluate the effectiveness of tuberculosis control and preventing the emergence of extremely drug resistant tuberculosis. However, this information is scarce in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the intensive phase treatment outcome and factors contributing among patients treated for MDRTB in Ethiopia.

Methods

A 6 year (2009 to 2014) retrospective cohort record review was conducted in fourteen treatment initiating centers in Ethiopia. The records of 751 MDRTB patients were randomly selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a pre-tested and structured checklist. Multivariable multinomial logistic regression model was undertaken to identify the contributing factors.

Results

At the end of the intensive phase, 17.3% of MDRTB patients had an unfavorable treatment outcome while 16.8% had an unknown outcome with the rest having a favorable outcome. The median duration of the intensive phase was 9.0 months (IQR 8.04-10.54). Having an unfavorable intensive phase treatment outcome was found to be more common among older aged [ARRR= 1.047, 95% CI (1.024, 1.072)] and those without a history of hypokalemia [ARRR=0.512, 95% CI (0.280, 0.939)]. Having an unknown intensive phase treatment outcome was found to be more common among those treated under the ambulatory care model [ARRR=3.2, 95% CI (1.6, 6.2)], rural dwellers [ARRR= 0.370, 95% CI (0.199, 0.66)], those without a treatment supporter [ARRR=0.022, 95% CI (0.002, 0.231)], and those with resistance to a limited number of drugs.

Conclusion

We observed a higher than anticipated rate of unfavorable and unknown treatment outcomes in this study. To improve favorable treatment outcome more emphasis should be given to conducting all scheduled laboratory monitoring tests, assignment of trained treatment supporters and ensuring complete recording and reporting which could be enhanced by quarterly cohort review. Older aged and rural patients need special attention. Furthermore, the sample referral network should be strengthened.
Burden, Clinical Outcomes and Predictors of Stroke in Hospital Mortality among Adult Patients Admitted to Stroke Unit of Jimma University Medical Center: Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Fekadu Ginenus , Chelkeba Legese , Kebede Ayantu
Published: April 2019

Background: Global burden of stroke epidemiology is changing rapidly. Over the 1990–2013 period, there was a significant increase in the absolute number of deaths and incident events of stroke. The burden of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke varies between regions and over time in Ethiopia. The paucity of data has limited research output and consequently the response to this burden.
Methods: Prospective cohort study was carried at stroke unit of Jimma University Medical Center from March 10- July 10, 2017. The outcome of interest was mortality and time to death. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Multivariable Cox regression was used to identify the predictors of in hospital mortality and time to death from hospital arrival. Predictors with P< 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: A total of 116 eligible stroke patients were followed during the study period with the mean age of the patients was 55.1+14.0 years. Stroke accounted for 16.5 % of total medical admissions and 23.6 % of the total cases of in hospital mortality. A total of 91 (78.4%) of patients were discharged being alive making in hospital mortality of rate of 25 (21.6%). The mean time of in hospital mortality after admission was 4.38+3.The prominent suspected immediate cause for in hospital mortality was increased intracranial pressure 17 (68.0%). The mean length of hospital stay was 9.21+6.82days. Brain edema (AHR: 6.27, 95% CI: 2.50-15.76), urine incontinence (AHR: 3.48, 95% CI: 1.48-8.17), National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) >13 during hospital arrival (AHR: 22.58, 95% CI: 2.95-172.56) and diagnosis of stroke clinically alone (AHR: 4.96, 95% CI: 1.96-12.54) were the independent predictors of in hospital mortality.
Conclusions: The mortality of stroke in this set up is similar to other low- and middle-resource countries. There should be burning need to establishing and strengthening the available stroke unit which are well-equipped and staffed intensive care units in different hospitals across the country is necessary.
Cerebral Hypoperfusion in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and Corticobasal Syndrome (CBS)
Authors: Alster Piotr , Nieciecki Michał , Koziorowski Dariusz , Charzyńska Ingeborga , Królicki Leszek , Friedman Andrzej
Published: April 2019

Background:
Perfusion single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) as a method of examination of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal syndrome (CBS) as its clinical manifestation was not extensively analyzed in contemporary literature. Recent criteria of PSP and CBS do not describe this method of examination as primary or additional. The aim of this work is to present whether SPECT HMPAO can be a method of examination possibly differentiating the diseases.
Methods:
21 patients with PSP. and 14 patients with CBS were examined using SPECT HMPAO. Extended analysis was done in the context of regions of interest affected by significant average hypoperfusion (>2 standard deviations). Differences between the diseases where subsequently evaluated using U-Mann-Whitney test.
Results:
Results confirmed significant differences (p<0,05) within the left and right thalamus, Hypoperfusion of this region was observed in both of the diseases.
Conclusion:
Relatively small differences of hypoperfusion in the indicated regions led to a conclusion that PSP and CBS should not be differentiated using SPECT HMPAO. The overlapping of clinical manifestations and locations of hypoperfusion leads to a question whether the diseases should be interpreted as separate entities or variants of the same disease.
Development of a cost-effective line probe assay for rapid detection and differentiation of Mycobacterium species
Authors: Kakhki Reza Kamali , Aryan Ehsan , Sankian Mojtaba , Meshkat Zahra
Published: April 2019

Background

Line probe assay (LPA) is one of the most accurate diagnostic tools for detection of different Mycobacterium species. There are several commercial kits based on line probe assay for detection of Mycobacterium species. Because of their high cost, especially for underdeveloped and developing countries, and the discrepancy of NTM prevalence across geographic regions, it would be reasonable to consider the development of an in-house LPA.

The aim of this study was to develop a LPA to detect and differentiate mycobacterial species, and also to evaluate the usefulness of PCR-LPA for direct application on clinical samples.

Method

One pair of biotinylated primers and fifteen designed DNA oligonucleotide probes were used based on multiple aligned ITS sequences. Specific binding of the PCR amplified products to the probes immobilized on a strip of nitrocellulose membrane was evaluated by hybridization method. Experiments were performed three times on separate days to evaluate the repeatability of the assay. Further, evaluation of the PCR-LPA was carried out directly on 9 clinical samples and cultivated isolates.

Results

All the fifteen probes used in this study were hybridized specifically to ITS sequences of the corresponding standard species. Results were reproducible for all of the strains in different days. Mycobacterium species of nine clinical specimens and their relevant cultivated isolates were correctly identified by PCR-LPA and confirmed by sequencing.

Conclusions

In this study, we described a PCR-LPA which is readily applicable in clinical laboratory. This assay is a fast, cost-effective and highly specific method which requires no radioactive materials.
Treatment outcome of tuberculosis patients at Adare general Hospital, Hawassa, Southern Ethiopia. (A five year retrospective study)
Authors: Tsegaye Bezunesh , Bedewi Zufan , Asnake Solomon Lemma
Published: April 2019

Background Globally still Tuberculosis remains a major public health problems and socio-economic issue in the 21st century. Ethiopia is among the countries most heavily affected by Tuberculosis, where it is the leading cause of morbidity, the third cause of hospital admission and the second cause of death. To improve Tuberculosis management and control, early detection of cases, effective treatment and persistent evaluation of treatment outcome are vital issues that should be taken into consideration. Hence, this study was designed to determine treatment outcomes and associated risk factors among TB patients registered and receiving anti-TB treatment at Adare general Hospital, Southern Ethiopia. Methods A five years retrospective study was conducted by reviewing medical records of TB patients at Adare general Hospital. A total of 1151 Tuberculosis patients’ cards registered from (September 2013 to August 2017) for treatment at TB clinic were reviewed. Data was coded, cleaned and entered into Microsoft Excel sheet then ported and analyzed using SPSS version 20 statistical soft ware. Logistic regression with odds ratios (OR) along with the 95% confidence interval was computed and interpreted. A P value <0.05 was declared as statistically significant. Result Among 1122 cases 620 (55.3%) were male, 748(66.7%) were from urban areas, 319 (28.4%) were smear positive, 352 (31.4%) were smear negative and 451 (40.2%) were extra pulmonary patients. Of the 1122 284 (25.3%) were cured, 753(67.1%) completed treatment, 29(2.6%) defaulted, 53(4.7%) died and 3 (0.3%) had treatment failure. The mean treatment success rate was 92.4%. The risk of unsuccessful TB treatment outcome was significantly higher among TB patients from rural areas (AOR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.27, 0.67); patients with extra pulmonary TB (AOR = 0.87, 95% CI; 0.67, 1.14), and HIV positive TB patients (AOR = 5.47, 95% CI; 3.47, 8.63) were more likely to have poor treatment outcomes as compared to their counter parts. Conclusion The treatment success rates of Tuberculosis, at Adare hospital was comparable to national health facility level coverage, but it should be maintained and strengthen further to attain tuberculosis related national and millennium goal.
The outcome predictors and therapeutic strategy of pneumocystis pneumonia in North China: a double-center retrospective study
Authors: Hua Wei , Yang Yang , Zhang Zheng , Zhang Wei , Zeng Jing , Guo Caiping , Zhang Yulin
Published: April 2019

Background: Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is common in HIV/AIDS patients with advanced immunosuppression. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) is recommended as the first-line anti-pneumocystis agent as soon as PCP is suspected based on its typical feature. However, the clinical characteristic and therapeutic strategy of Chinese PCP were not well-known.
Methods: We retrospectively investigated 473 HIV associated PCPs in North China from double centers, Beijing You An Hospital during 2010 to 2017 and the Infectious Disease Hospital in Harbin during 2015 to 2017. HIV associated PCP were diagnosed as the guideline recommended by CDC, NIH and HIV Medicine Association of IDSA. Demographic and clinic data were collected and statistically analysed as the parameter distribution feature.
Results: Among 473 HIV associated PCPs, we found that men were over-represented in PCP due to the high incidence of HIV infection among male homosexuality, and over one-third of them were aware of their HIV infection ago but did not maintain effective antiretroviral therapy. A history of smoking and multi-organism infection or system infection were common among them. In the multivariate analysis, we found lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (OR 1.020, 95% CI 1.006-1.033, P=0.005), alveolar-arterial O2 difference ([A-a] DO2) and neutrophils counts (OR 1.051, 95% CI 1.005-1.099, P=0.030) were unfavourable predictors and CD4 cell counts (OR 0.900, 95% CI 0.813-0.996, P=0.041) were favourable predictor of PCP outcome. Trimethoprim/sulfamethozole (TMP/SMZ) but not TMP/SMX was used to anti-pneumocystis therapy in these patients with a low side-effect incidence which mainly forcused on epispasis, fever, liver injury and myelosuppression. Caspofungin was the only alternative medicine for those presented poor efficacy or could not tolerate the side-effects of TMP-SMZ and near 30 percent of moderate/severe PCP received glucocorticoid treatment.
Conclusion: The present data suggest that high levels of serum-LDH, [A-a] DO2 and neutrophils counts and low CD4 cell counts predict poor outcome of PCP. TMP/SMZ can cure most PCPs with a low side-effect incidence and caspofungin is an effective alternation. A larger prospective study is needed to obtain better estimates of PCP in China.
The effect of board governance and debt policy on value of non-financial firms
Authors: Abidin Sahabuddin Zainal , Hadianto Bram
Published: April 2019

Supervisory board plays an essential role to implement good governance in firm. If this governance is implemented well, the increase in firm value will occur. Related to this statement, the main question that appears is about the number and independence rate of supervisory board members needed to enhance firm value. Besides supervisory board, debt policy holds an important role for firm because of bankruptcy issue. Firm with good governance tries to avoid this issue by decreasing the amount of its debt to create high value.The aim of this study is to test and analyze the effect of board governance, consisting of size and independence of supervisory board, and debt policy on value of non-financial firms forming the Kompas 100 Index on Indonesia Stock Exchange. To be able to generalize results on all non-financial firms forming this index, stratified random sampling method is used to take firms as the sample from the population. Method of data analysis used is fixed effect regression model.This study infers that the number of supervisory board members has no effect on firm value, whereas board independence and debt policy have the effect on firm value: firm with high portion of supervisory board independence and the amount of debt significantly tends to have low value.
Recent Advances in Therapeutic Applications of Bisbenzimidazoles
Authors: Verma Smita , Ravichandiran Vishnuvardh , Ranjan Nihar , Flora Swaran J.S.
Published: April 2019

Nitrogen-containing heterocycles are one of the most common structural motifs in approximately 80% of the marketed drugs. Of these, benzimidazoles analogues are known to elicit a wide spectrum of pharmaceutical activities such as anticancer, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiviral, antifungal as well as chemosensor effect. Based on the benzimidazole core fused heterocyclic compounds, crescent-shaped bisbenzimidazoles were developed which provided an early breakthrough in the sequence-specific DNA recognition. Over the years, a number of functional variations in the bisbenzimidazole core have led to the emergence of their unique properties and established them as versatile ligands against several classes of pathogens. The present review provides an overview of diverse pharmacological activities of the bisbenzimidazole analogues in the past decade with a brief account of its development through the years.
Hybrids of Coumarin Derivatives as Potent and Multifunctional Bioactive Agents: A Review
Authors: Fotopoulos Ioannis , Hadjipavlou-Litina Dimitra
Published: April 2019

Background:

Coumarins exhibit a plethora of biological activities, e.g. antiinflammatory and anti-tumor. Molecular hybridization technique has been implemented in the design of novel coumarin hybrids with several bioactive groups in order to obtain molecules with better pharmacological activity and improved pharmacokinetic profile.

Objective:

Therefore, we tried to gather as many as possible biologically active coumarin hybrids referred in the literature till now, to delineate the structural characteristics in relation to the activities and to have a survey that might help the medicinal chemists to design new coumarin hybrids with drug-likeness and varied bioactivities.

Results:

The biological activities of the hybrids in most of the cases were found to be different from the biological activities presented by the parent coumarins. The results showed that the hybrid molecules are more potent compared to the standard drugs used in the evaluation experiments.

Conclusion:

Conjugation of coumarin with varied pharmacophore groups/druglike molecules responsible for different biological activities led to many novel hybrid molecules, with a multitarget behavior and improved pharmacokinetic properties.
Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulation Analysis of Thymoquinone and Thymol Compounds from Nigella sativa L. that Inhibits P38 Protein: Probable Remedies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Tabassum Heena , Ahmad Iffat Z.
Published: April 2019

Background:

Currently, a novel antagonist against p38 is being designed and applied to
inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma. Protein–ligand interaction plays a major role in the identification
of the possible mechanism for the pharmacological action. The involvement of p38 remains an important
target for anticancer drug development as its activation induces apoptosis in hepatoma cells.

Objective:

The aim is to identify the best candidate from the plants of N. sativa which binds with
the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) targets by computational approach.

Materials and Methods:

The reported phytoconstituents such as thymoquinone and thymol present
in the plant, N. sativa were docked with the HCC target such as p38. Structures of phytoconstituents
were prepared using ChemDraw Ultra 10 software and converted into its 3D PDB structure
and minimized using Discovery Studio client 2.5. The target protein, p38 was retrieved from
RCSB PDB. Lipinski’s rule and ADMET toxicity profiling were carried out on the phytoconstituents
of the N. sativa, and the compounds were further promoted for molecular docking and MD
simulation analysis.

Results:

The docking results revealed promising inhibitory potential of thymoquinone against p38
with binding energy of -7.67 kcal/mole as compared to its known standard doxorubicin having
binding energy of -6.68 kcal/mol respectively. Further, molecular dynamic (MD) simulations for
5ns were conducted for optimization, flexibility prediction, and determination of folded p38 stability.
The p38-thymoquinone complex was found to be quite stable with RMSD value of 0.2 nm.

Conclusion:

Obtained results propose thymoquinone binding energy on the selected targets.
Hence, this compound bears outstanding potential against hepatocellular carcinoma and has to be
taken up for experimental work against hepatocellular carcinoma.
On the Influence of Children's Sports Dance on Their Physical Fitness and Psychological Behavior Problems
Authors: Min-gang Guo , Dan-dan Bian
Published: April 2019

To explore the influence of children's sports dance on the physical fitness and psychological behavior problems
of children in different school period, this paper adopts literature research, teaching experiment, and mathematical statistics,
to study the influence of introducing children's sports dance to the class on their physical fitness and psychological
behavior problems. The research results show that children's sports dance practice can not only effectively promote the
improvement of physical fitness of children in different school period, but also improve their psychological behavior
problems, which is worth introduction and promotion in the kindergarten.
Influence Maximization on Social Networks: A Study
Authors: Singh Shashank S. , Singh Kuldeep , Kumar Ajay , Biswas Bhaskar
Published: April 2019

Influence Maximization, which selects a set of k users (called seed set) from a social network
to maximize the expected number of influenced users (called influence spread), is a key algorithmic
problem in social influence analysis. In this paper, we give recent studies on influence maximization
algorithms. The main goal of this survey is to provide recent studies and future research
opportunities. We give taxonomy of influence maximization algorithms with the comparative theoretical
analysis. This paper provides a theoretical analysis of influence maximization problem based
on algorithm design perspective and also provides the performance analysis of existing algorithms.
Are There Differences in Technical Assessment Grades Between Adjunct and Full‐Time Dental Faculty? A Pilot Study
Authors: Deeb Janina Golob , Koertge Thomas E. , Laskin Daniel M. , Carrico Caroline K.
Published: April 2019

Some dental students preferentially schedule graded assessments with adjunct faculty members in expectation of obtaining a higher grade. The aim of this pilot study was to compare the grades given by full‐time and adjunct faculty members in clinical periodontics to determine if a difference in grading existed. Grades for students given by seven full‐time and 11 adjunct faculty members for various technical and competency assessments in D3 and D4 clinical periodontics courses in academic year 2015‐16 were compared. Associations between grades and faculty type were sought using mixed model regression to account for correlations among a student's scores. A total of 845 technical assessment and competency scores from 208 students in the two classes were included in the analysis. Scores were for four procedures: periodontal examination and treatment planning, scaling and root planing, evaluation of initial therapy, and periodontal maintenance. Full‐time faculty members graded 58% of the assessments, and 42% were scored by adjunct faculty members. Grades for the adjunct faculty were on average 0.14 (out of 5) higher than those for the full‐time faculty (p<0.0001). The number of graded assessments was also significantly associated with a higher average score, suggesting potential student bias toward selecting faculty members who grade more favorably (p<0.0001). These students generally received higher grades from adjunct faculty members, whereas the grades given by full‐time faculty members were closer in average and more consist with each other. The results point to the need for more calibration training for adjunct faculty members.
Is a Picture Worth a Thousand Words? Effectiveness of iPad Technology in Preclinical Dental Laboratory Courses
Authors: Kirkup Michele L. , Adams Brooke N. , Reifeis Paul E. , Heselbarth Jeni L. , Willis Lisa H.
Published: April 2019

Dental educators should consider alternative modalities of instruction when experiencing difficulties conveying feedback to students. The aim of this study was to determine if integrating iPad technology as a visual learning tool would enhance the exchange of assessment information and improve academic performance in Indiana University School of Dentistry's preclinical curriculum. In 2016, the first‐year Tooth Morphology (TM) and second‐year Fixed Prosthodontics (Fixed) courses implemented a project using iPad images that allowed instructors to annotate acceptable and deficient areas of students' tooth wax‐ups and preparations. In the two courses, all students (TM n=106 and Fixed n=105) and instructors (TM n=21 and Fixed n=17) were given pre‐intervention surveys to report their perceived effectiveness of verbal feedback and were given post‐intervention surveys to rate their experiences with iPad image feedback. Response rates for students in the two courses on the pre surveys were TM 87.7% and Fixed 85.7% and on the post surveys were TM 26.4% and Fixed 76.2%. Response rates for instructors on the pre surveys were TM 52.4% and Fixed 82.4% and on the post surveys were TM 76.2% and Fixed 76.5%. The results showed that a majority of both groups preferred the combination of verbal and iPad image feedback: 53% of responding students in TM and 51% in Fixed, and 75% of instructors in TM and 77% in Fixed. In the TM course, responding instructors had a statistically significantly higher agreement than students that feedback with iPad images was superior to verbal feedback alone (p=0.008). Furthermore, a multi‐year analysis of TM practical examination grades found statistically significant lower change scores for the first and second exams in 2014 and 2015 compared to the 2016 scores when the iPad intervention occurred. These results suggest that verbal feedback combined with iPad images resulted in an enhanced exchange of information and increased student grades, particularly in the first‐year dental curriculum.
Blended Module‐Based Teaching in Biostatistics and Research Methodology: A Retrospective Study with Postgraduate Dental Students
Authors: Varghese Sheeja Saji , Ramesh Asha , Veeraiyan Deepak Nallaswamy
Published: April 2019

Information technology has stimulated efforts to reform teaching methods in dental education. Most of these efforts involve a shift from conventional mode to the more technology‐savvy and student‐centered approach. The aim of this study was to compare postgraduate dental students' academic performance using two teaching methodologies (video‐based learning and blended module‐based learning) in a biostatistics and research methodology course in a master's program at a dental college in India. This retrospective study involved two groups of students enrolled in the master's program with different years of admission: Group I in 2013‐14 (n=80) and Group II in 2015‐16 (n=80). Group I students learned the subjects with video‐based learning, whereas Group II students were taught using a blended module program using a small‐group learning system called Process‐Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning (POGIL). The students' final course evaluation (summative assessment) and formative assessment (during course assessments) were compared for the two groups. The students' final course evaluation was derived from an end‐of‐year written examination, whereas the formative assessment was recorded with written tests and projects during the course. In the results, the summative assessment did not show a significant difference between Group I (68.2±13.4) and Group II (66.4±11.9) (p=0.39). The formative assessment showed a significant difference (p<0.001) in favor of the Group II students. In this study, the blended module‐based teaching produced similar scores on the final exam to the video‐based lectures, but it produced significantly better results on the in‐course assessments. The latter finding could be attributed to the incorporation of small‐group learning and POGIL.
Hypoglycemia in People with Type 2 Diabetes and CKD
Authors: Ahmad Iram , Zelnick Leila R. , Batacchi Zona , Robinson Nicole , Dighe Ashveena , Manski-Nankervis Jo-Anne E. , Furler John , O’Neal David N. , Little Randie , Trence Dace , Hirsch Irl B. , Bansal Nisha , de Boer Ian H.
Published: April 2019

Background and objectives

Among people with diabetes mellitus, CKD may promote hypoglycemia through altered clearance of glucose-lowering medications, decreased kidney gluconeogenesis, and blunted counter-regulatory response. We conducted a prospective observational study of hypoglycemia among 105 individuals with type 2 diabetes treated with insulin or a sulfonylurea using continuous glucose monitors.

Design, setting, participants & measurements

We enrolled 81 participants with CKD, defined as eGFR<60 ml/min per 1.73 m2, and 24 control participants with eGFR≥60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 frequency-matched on age, duration of diabetes, hemoglobin A1c, and glucose-lowering medications. Each participant wore a continuous glucose monitor for two 6-day periods. We examined rates of sustained level 1 hypoglycemia (<70 mg/dl) and level 2 hypoglycemia (<54 mg/dl) among participants with CKD. We then tested differences compared with control participants as well as a second control population (n=73) using Poisson and linear regression, adjusting for age, sex, and race.

Results

Over 890 total days of continuous glucose monitoring, participants with CKD were observed to have 255 episodes of level 1 hypoglycemia, of which 68 episodes reached level 2 hypoglycemia. Median rate of hypoglycemic episodes was 5.3 (interquartile range, 0.0–11.7) per 30 days and mean time spent in hypoglycemia was 28 (SD 37) minutes per day. Hemoglobin A1c and the glucose management indicator were the main clinical correlates of time in hypoglycemia (adjusted differences 6 [95% confidence interval, 2 to 10] and 13 [95% confidence interval, 7 to 20] fewer minutes per day per 1% higher hemoglobin A1c or glucose management indicator, respectively). Compared with control populations, participants with CKD were not observed to have significant differences in time in hypoglycemia (adjusted differences 4 [95% confidence interval, −12 to 20] and −12 [95% confidence interval, −29 to 5] minutes per day).

Conclusions

Among people with type 2 diabetes and moderate to severe CKD, hypoglycemia was common, particularly with tighter glycemic control, but not significantly different from groups with similar clinical characteristics and preserved eGFR.
Building Econometric Model for Inflation and Unemployment Rate in Viet Nam and Myanmar
Authors: Huy, MBA Dinh TrAn Ngoc
Published: April 2019

After the global economic crisis 2007-2011, Viet Nam and Myanmar economies experienced indirect and direct impacts on their economic, finance and banking system, and especially on unemployment rate. Although some economists have done researches on the relationship among macro economic factors such as: Consumer Price Index (CPI), inflation, GDP…, this paper aims to consider the interaction between macro economic factors such as Viet Nam inflation, US inflation and Viet Nam and Myanmar unemployment rates in the context Viet Nam and Myanmar economics receive impacts from global economic crisis. This is one main objective of this research paper. And the below chart shows us the fluctuation of Viet nam unemployment rate comparing to fluctuations of inflation in the US and in Viet Nam.
Brote de infección respiratoria aguda grave, Santo Domingo Norte, República Dominicana, agosto 2016
Authors: Colomé-Hidalgo Manuel , Gil Fernández Manuel , Silfa Claribel
Published: April 2019

Antecedentes: se realizó la investigación con el objetivo de determinar el alcance de un brote de infección respiratoria aguda grave, ocurrido en el municipio de Santo Domingo Norte en República Dominicana. Los objetivos de la investigación fueron examinar las características epidemiológicas y descriptivas de los casos, generar hipótesis (posible fuente de infección), tomar muestras para diagnóstico por laboratorio e implementar medidas de control.

Métodos: estudio descriptivo de un brote epidémico por infección respiratoria aguda grave. Se evaluaron variables sociodemográficas, signos y síntomas, datos de laboratorio y evolución clínica de los afectados. Se realizó búsqueda activa y se adoptaron medidas de contención.

Resultados: se detectaron 22 casos, teniendo al hacinamiento como principal factor de riesgo. No hubo defunciones. La población más afectada correspondió a menores de un año de edad con un 50%. La afectación fue igual en ambos sexos.

Conclusión: el aislamiento de virus sincitial respiratorio, parainfluenza y adenovirus tipo 3 en muestras respiratorias confirmó la presencia de un brote. Destacamos la necesidad de intensificar la vigilancia y aplicar recomendaciones de vacunación en personas con factores de riesgo, especialmente en la población infantil.
Actitudes y prácticas de los padres acerca del uso de medicina tradicional para el manejo de sibilancia, tos y fiebre en los pacientes atendidos en las consultas de Neumología del Hospital Infantil Dr. Robert Reid Cabral, enero-abril 2018, Santo Domingo, República Dominicana
Authors: Soliman-Nuñez Carlos , Cordero-Oñate Leandra , Vásquez Lina
Published: April 2019

La Organización Mundial de la Salud define la medicina tradicional como todo el conjunto de conocimientos, aptitudes y prácticas basados en teorías, creencias y experiencias indígenas de las diferentes culturas, sean o no explicables, usados para el mantenimiento de la salud, así como para la prevención, el diagnóstico, la mejora o el tratamiento de enfermedades físicas o mentales. Este tipo de medicina a pesar de poseer un conjunto de diversos sistemas, prácticas y productos médicos y de atencion de la salud, no se considera actualmente parte de la medicina convencional.

Objetivo: identificar actitudes y prácticas de los padres acerca del uso de medicina tradicional para el manejo de sibilancia, tos y fiebre en los pacientes atendidos en las consultas de neumología del hospital infantil doctor Robert Reid Cabral, enero-abril 2018.

Metodología: estudio observacional descriptivo transversal con recolección prospectiva de datos con el fin de conocer actitudes y práctica de los padres acerca del uso de medicina tradicional para el manejo de sibilancia, tos y fiebre en los pacientes atendidos en la consultas de neumología del Hospital Infantil Doctor Robert Reid Cabral, enero-abril 2018.

Resultados: se identificó que la mayor cantidad de padres o tutores entrevistados consideran que la medicina tradicional es efectiva (42%), de los 180 entrevistados;126 optan por la práctica de la medicina tradicional (70%) y 65 refirieron que razón por la cual utilizan la medicina tradicional es por ser más económica (37%), cuando un niño presenta sibilancia; 94 de los 180 entrevistados prefieren acudir al médico (42%), sobre la tos 69 de los 180 entrevistados utilizan en conjunto medicina convencional y tradicional (38%) y en cuanto la fiebre 128 de los 180 entrevistados prefieren ir directamente al médico (71%). Las amas de casa son las que más utilizan la medicina tradicional (29%); en relación a la escolaridad, el mayor porcentaje (38%) solo había cursado la primaria; los padres o tutores procedentes de zona urbana fueron los que refirieron usar con más frecuencia la medicina tradicional (52%), por otro lado, los padres o tutores con un ingreso entre RD$ 5-10mil pesos fueron los que más optaron por el uso de la medicina tradicional, en relación a la edad; los padres o tutores con edades comprendidas entre 41-50 años o más son los que más se inclinan hacia al uso de la medicina tradicional; y los niños con edades comprendidas entre 1-10 años fueron los que más la consumieron. La tos fue el padecimiento en el que más se optó por el uso de la medicina tradicional (48%). Se observó que la medicina tradicional más utilizada para el control o manejo de la sibilancia, la tos y la fiebre; es aquella procedente de origen vegetal.
Editorial
Authors: Morla Elbi
Published: April 2019

No precisa de un resumen