bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Immobilized Copper on Nickel Ferrite: A Magnetically Superior Nanocatalyst for Chemoselective and Knoevenagel Synthesis of Bisdimedones and 1,8-Dioxo-octahydroxanthenes under Solvent-Free Conditions
Authors: Zeynizadeh Behzad , Rahmani Soleiman , Hallaj Arezu
Published: April 2019

Aim and Objective:

Nowadays, bisdimedones and 1,8-dioxo-octahydroxanthenes are considered as biologically active materials. Due to this, the synthesis of the mentioned materials is the subject of more interest. Although most of the reported methods have their own merits, however, they generally require the use of expensive reagents, hazardous organic solvents, a tedious workup procedure and reduced recyclability of the applied catalyst system. Overcoming of the above mentioned drawbacks, therefore, encouraged us to investigate the capability of nanostructured NiFe2O4@Cu towards the synthesis of bisdimedones and 1,8- dioxo-octahydroxanthenes under green reaction conditions.

Materials and Methods:

Nanoparticles of NiFe2O4@Cu were prepared via a two-step procedure including the preparation of NiFe2O4 by solid-state grinding of Ni(OAc)2·4H2O and Fe(NO3)3·9H2O in the presence of NaOH followed by the immobilization of Cu(0) on the surface of NiFe2O4 nucleus via hydrazine hydrate reduction of Cu(NO3)2·3H2O.

Results:

After the synthesis of NiFe2O4@Cu, the catalytic activity of the Cu-nanocatalyst towards Knoevenagel reaction of aromatic aldehydes with dimedone under different reaction conditions was investigated. The examinations showed that using the molar equivalents of aromatic aldehydes (1 mmol) and dimedone (2 mmol) in the presence of 0.15 g NiFe2O4@Cu under solvent-free conditions chemoselectively afforded structurally different bisdimedone products at 60°C and 1,8-dioxo-octahydroxanthenes at 120°C.

Conclusion:

In this study, magnetically, nanoparticles of NiFe2O4@Cu were prepared and then characterized using different analyses. The catalytic activity of the prepared Cu-nanocatalyst was also studied towards solvent-free Knoevenagel condensation of aromatic aldehydes with dimedone. All the reactions were carried out within 15-240 min to afford bisdimedone and 1,8-dioxo-octahydroxanthene products in high yields.
Intact Pulmonary Hydatid Cyst: Is Bronchoscopic Removal Possible?
Authors: Sokouti Massoud , Sokouti Mohsen , Sokouti Babak
Published: April 2019

In the current technical note, the structure of pulmonary hydatid cysts has been presented and the included layers have been discussed. Then, some critical notes have been provided for the management of intact pulmonary hydatid cyst which should not be removed by bronchoscopic approaches due to high rates of possible complications of tearing; however, it has been performed by some cases available in the literature which is not acceptable.
Towards Precision Medicine in Pediatric Severe Asthma: An Update on Current and Emerging Biomarkers
Authors: Licari Amelia , Castagnoli Riccardo , Manca Enrica , Votto Martina , Michev Alexander , Marseglia Gian Luigi
Published: April 2019

Pediatric severe asthma is actually considered a rare disease with a heterogeneous nature.
Recent cohort studies focusing on children with severe asthma identified different clinical
presentations (phenotypes) and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms (endotypes). Phenotyping
and endotyping asthma represent the current approach to patients with severe asthma and consist in
characterizing objectively measurable and non-invasive indicators (biomarkers) capable of orienting
diagnosis, management and personalized treatment, as advocated by the Precision Medicine
approach. The aim of this review is to provide a practical overview of current and emerging
biomarkers in pediatric severe asthma.
Analysis of Nitroaromatics: A Comparison Between Gas Chromatography, Liquid Chromatography and their Hyphenation with Solid Phase Micro-Extraction
Authors: Ajmal Puthiyaveettilparambu Y. , Bhangare Rahul C. , Tiwari Mahesh , Sahu Sanjay K.
Published: April 2019

Background:

A major class of nitro-explosives being used in military and commercial purposes belongs to organic compounds containing nitro (NO2) groups like nitrobenzene, nitrotoluenes, and nitramines. Apart from being energetic materials, these substances are inherently toxic to human beings. These substances may find their way into different environmental matrices from the site of their military or commercial applications. They are present in nature at ultra-trace levels.

Methods:

Chromatographic techniques have been widely used for the detection and quantification of nitro-explosives from various environmental matrices. The current study involves a comparison of the performance of liquid and gas chromatography with and without pre-concentration techniques like Solid Phase Micro-extraction (SPME) to detect ultra-trace levels nitrobenzene and nitrotoluenes in water.

Results:

The addition of SPME to chromatographic techniques significantly improves the quality of the analysis in terms of ease and sensitivity. Both SPME-HPLC and SPME-GC are equally competent techniques for the analysis of nitroaromatic explosives from water. Detection limits were improved by upto 5 orders of magnitude by these methods.

Conclusion:

The methodology for determining nitroaromatic explosives in water samples has been optimized and validated after trying four different methods and comparing their performance. GC and HPLC techniques used alone cannot be sensitive enough to detect these compounds at ultra-trace levels. Both SPME-HPLC-UV and SPME-GC-FID are equally competent techniques. SPME method has been proved to be an excellent tool with no requirement of any tedious sample preparation and chemical processing of the samples.
Domain Partitioning: Approach to Computing Average Iceberg Queries
Authors: Ravi Pallam , Haritha D.
Published: April 2019

:

Data analytics and data mining systems work on data which stored in files, the files are not store relationships among the data, from such kind of data we compute aggregate values over the set of required attributes for find insights of data, find attributes values which aggregation values greater than threshold such kind of queries called iceberg queries. Computing iceberg queries with average aggregate function is default, because limited memory available. Existing method are suffers with re-computation of candidate. We proposed a Record Traction Algorithm(RTA) ,it use Domain partitioning approach, it avoid re-computation of candidate in during next scan of data set, it use bit vector and bitmap numbers for Domain Partitioning the data, our experiment reveals that our approach generate a candidate only once and input data will reduced in further candidate sets.
Design and Implementation of a Network Security Chip with Improved Compression Approach
Authors: Rajak Abdul , Gaidhane Vilas H. , D’costa Aaron
Published: April 2019

Background:

Network security is used to secure data transmission over the wireless
network. Encryption of information plays a vital role in communication since it protects the sender
and receiver from the hackers trying to access the information.

Objectives:

In recent years, protecting the information data has become a challenging task for the
researchers. Hence, there is a need to improve the existing methods of secure data transmission.

Method:

In this paper, a new approach is proposed to implement a better security chip for secured
data transmission. It is based on the combination of encryption and description as well as the compression
techniques. The proposed design focuses on the reduction of delay in the circuit using the
compression approach.

Results:

The various simulations are carried out using the Xilinx, and MATLAB software. The
timing signals are observed on Xilinx and the proposed algorithm has been simulated and tested on
MATLAB.

Conclusion:

The presented approach performed better and achieved a good compression ratio and
hence the loss of information was less at the receiving end.
Osteodystrophia Fibrosa in a Goat - A case report
Authors: G. Tejaswini K. , Pillai Usha Narayana , Unny N. Madhavan , Nair Sudheesh S.
Published: April 2019

Osteodystrophia fibrosa is a condition associated with fibrous replacement of the resorbed bony matrix. In India, it is commonly reported in horses, and is most often associated with bran feeding, leading to higher availability of phosphorus
and imbalance in the calcium phosphorus ratio. Low calcium or high phosphorus diet can result in secondary nutritional hyperparathyroidism leading to osteodystrophia fibrosa (Ozmen et al., 2017). Bone resorption of calcium occurs associated with low
calcium level in circulation. Deformities of the bone manifests associated with the severity of the condition.
Study on Blood Biochemical Profile in Relation to Age and Scrotal Biometry in Adolescent Surti Bucks
Authors: Chaudhari D. V. , Dhami A. J. , Hadiya C.P. Parmar, J.A. Patel and M.M. Pathan K. , Parmar S. C. , Chaudhari D. V.
Published: April 2019

The study was undertaken on 11 Surti male kids of identical age and birth weight from 14 weeks of age till puberty and sexual maturity up to 47 weeks (12 months) of age. The scrotal biometry, i.e., length, width, circumference (cm) and volume
(cm3) were recorded using standard procedures at 3 weeks intervals. The mean weight of animals at birth, 14 and 35 weeks of age was 1.53±0.05, 9.86±0.61 kg and 17.84±1.09 kg, respectively and thereafter it did not change much till 47 weeks of age.
Similarly, the mean values of scrotal length, width, circumference (cm) and scrotal volume (cm3) at 14 weeks of age were 2.89±0.22, 2.05±0.17, 8.82±0.72 and 21.36±0.93, respectively, which then gradually increased with an advancing age till 35 weeks
of age reaching 10.65±0.30, 7.55±0.24, 19.45±0.65 and 200.45±16.67, respectively, which later became almost stable. At puberty, the average age and body weight were 27.00±0.75 weeks and 15.16±0.56 kg, and at sexual maturity 38.18±0.90 weeks and
19.61±0.93 kg, respectively. Great individual variation was noted in all the biometric traits among bucks studied. The blood plasma profile studied at bimonthly intervals revealed significant increase in total protein and ALT, and decrease in
cholesterol and cobalt concentrations with advancing age. However, the AST and macro-micro minerals did not vary, suggestive of acquiring adult profile by 6 months of age. Based on the age, scrotal biometry, semen quality and blood biochemistry, it
could be inferred that the Surti bucks attained full reproductive potential at around 9- 10 months of age with stable blood plasma profile.
Hydrocephalic Monster in a non Descript Buffalo
Authors: Patil A. D. , Lakde C. K. , Sahatpure S. K. , . Chandini , . Kamaljit
Published: April 2019

Excessive accumulation of fluid in arachnoid and /or in ventricular system of cranium lead to large size of cranium refers to hydrocephalus (Arthur et al., 2001). It is one of the rare congenital anomalies seen in cattle and buffalo while
occasionally in ewe and doe (Dhaliwal et al., 1998). It may be caused due to abnormal development of fetus with genetic, nutritional and environmental factors (Kalman, 1989). An autosomal recessive gene is responsible for many hereditary cases but
intrauterine infections and nutritional factor have not been fully evaluated except relationship of blue tounge virus with hydrocephaly (Upasana et al., 2012). Deficiency of Vitamin A may be a potent cause of hydrophalus in buffalo (Arthur et al.,
2001) .
Prevalence of Bunostomum trigonocephalum infection in sheep and goats in Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Khare Ravi Kumar , Dixit A. K. , Kumar R. , Das G. , Bhinsara D. , Ghosh Subhamoy , Singh Rohit , Chandra D. , Sankar M.
Published: April 2019

Bunostomum trigonocephalum is one of the neglected and highly pathogenic nematodes of small ruminants. The accurate prevalence of bunostomosis is under estimated because it is morphologically indistinguishable with another blood sucking
nematode, Gaigeria pachyscelis. The prime objective of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of B.trigonocephalum in different region of Madhya Pradesh and reinforce identification and differentiation characters between B.trigonocephalum
and G. pachyscelis. A total of 52 intestines were screened from different places of Madhya Pradesh and B. trigonocephalum and G. pachyscelis were identified morphologically.The overall prevalence of B.trigonocephalum was 30.76% in Madhya Pradesh. The
highest prevalence (85.71 %) was found in the Baghelkhand region (Rewa) is followed by Mahakoshal region (Jabalpur) (83.33%) and Vindhyanchal plateau (Bhopal) (66.66%). Beside B.trigonocephalum, G. pachyscelis was also prevalent (57.14%) in Rewa. The
characteristic morphological differences between B.trigonocephalum and G. pachyscelis were discussed.
Gross Anatomy of Cerebral Ventricles and Septum Pellucidum of Brain of Surti Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Suman Alka , Pandya Sweta
Published: April 2019

The objective of the present work was to study the cerebral ventricles and its associated parts of brain of Surti buffalo (n=12), The cerebral ventricles included two lateral ventricles and third ventricle. The lateral ventricles were curved
cavities presented large central part and three horns within the cerebral hemispheres. The third ventricle was an annular space on the periphery of inter-thalamic adhesion between two thalami. The mean length and width of central part of lateral
ventricle were 4.78±0.07 and 1.49±0.07 cm, respectively. The septum pellucidum was thin translucent membrane of two laminae which separates two lateral ventricles. The mean values of length and height of septum pellucidum were 3.6±0.12 and 0.52±0.04
cm, respectively. The cavum septum pellucidum was a small space found between two laminae of septum pellucidum.
Stress enzyme Level during different seasons in Pandharpuri Buffalo
Authors: Ambade R. B. , Dalvi S. H. , Gaten M. M. , Dighe V. D. , Doiphode A. Y. , Ramteke B. N.
Published: April 2019

The aim of the present study was to determine the stress enzyme level during different seasons in Pandharpuri Buffalo. The study was conducted on 10 healthy Pandharpuri buffaloes more than 2 years of age. All the animals were maintained under
standard feeding and management practices. Temperature Humidity Index (THI) was calculated from meteorological data for the different seasons. Five ml blood was collected from each buffalo aseptically from jugular vein once in the Month of May,
August and December. Serum was separated by centrifugation from each blood sample and was used for estimation of activity of stress enzymes. Mean ± S.E. THI was 76.97 ± 0.38, 73.32 ± 0.38 and 68.81 ± 0.49 for summer, rainy and winter season,
respectively. Mean ± S.E. activity of SOD (U/ mg of protein), CAT and GPx was 52.41± 1.49, 39.55± 1.92 and 32.54± 0.70; 61.84 ± 2.23, 43.98 ± 3.57 and 29.304 ± 1.51 and 0.374 ± 0. 05, 0.232 ± 0.01 and 0.128 ± 0.20 during summer, rainy and winter
seasons, respectively. All the serum antioxidant enzymes were found to be significantly (P less than 0.05) higher in the summer season compared to the rainy and winter seasons.
Histomorphological and Histochemical Studies on Esophagus in Gaddi Sheep (Ovis aries)
Authors: Malik Shabir Ahmad , Rajput Rajesh , Rafiq Mohd , Farooq Uiase Bin , Gori Harishbhai
Published: April 2019

The present work was conducted to study the histoarchitecture and histochemical characteristics of esophagus in six adult Gaddi sheep. Lamina epithelialis consisted of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium with four functional regions:
stratum corneum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum and stratum basale. In the stratum spinosum layer, the cell nuclei appeared polygonal whereas in the stratum corneum the cell nuclei were flattened and condensed. The stratum spinosum was the
thicker layer and stratum granulosum was a thin layer that contained basophilic keratohyalin granules. Pyknotic cells were observed towards the luminal side of stratum corneum. Blood capillaries and lymphoid aggregations in the form of dark stained
cells were present in the connective tissue of lamina propria. Connective tissue of lamina propria layer was denser than the same of the submucosa. The tunica muscularis consisted of striated muscle cells throughout the length of esophagus. Stratum
corneum of the stratified epithelium of esophagus showed strong periodic acid-Schiff reaction indicating accumulation of glycogen whereas the cells of the basal layer lacked glycogen. The intercellular spaces in the upper layers of stratum spinosum
of the epithelium contained acidic mucopolysaccharides as indicated by their reactivity to alcian blue stain.
Studies on Period of Oviposition and Hatching of Eggs in Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum
Authors: Prasad L. , Bagherwal R. K. , Jayraw A. K. , Rajput N. , Yadav N. , . Veena , Thakur P.
Published: April 2019

The engorged Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum females were collected from healthy cattle of college farm as well as nearby private dairy farms and villages of Mhow to evaluate the period of oviposition and hatching of eggs of H. a. anatolicum
under laboratory conditions. The present study recorded the period of oviposition and hatching of eggs (Mean ± SE) as 9.4 ± 0.54 and 21.9 ± 0.69 days, respectively.
Biochemical alterations in Horses Infected with Theileria equi
Authors: Vidhyalakshmi T. M. , Raval S. K. , Parikh P. V. , Patel P. V.
Published: April 2019

Equine theileriosis, an OIE listed disease caused by Theileria equi is an economically important haemoprotozoan disease of horses in tropical and subtropical parts of the world. The aim of the present study was to monitor the biochemical
alterations in order to find out the severity of the disease. Standard assay kits were used to study the biochemical parameters of horses positive for theileriosis in comparison with healthy ones. Out of 75 serum samples, 25 samples were collected
from horses positive for theileriosis and 50 from healthy horses. The serum levels of GPT (32.00±2.30 U/L), GOT (350.84±27.87 U/L), GGT (20.95±0.92 U/L), LDH (823.74±102.93 U/L), total protein (8.11±0.37 g/dl), globulin (3.84±0.40 g/dl), BUN
(46.26±5.27 mg/dl) and creatinine (1.33±0.18 mg/dl) were found to be significantly increased (p less than 0.01) in infected horses compared to the healthy group. Non- significant elevation (p greater than 0.05) in total bilirubin (1.08±0.14 mg/dl),
unconjugated bilirubin (0.57±0.11 mg/dl) and glucose (102.57±30.41 mg/dl) as well as non-significant reduction (p>0.05) in conjugated bilirubin (0.42±0.04 mg/dl), albumin (4.26±0.24 g/ dl) and A/G ratio (1.55±0.30) were also observed in infected
group. There was no significant alteration (p>0.05) in the level of serum calcium (12.32±0.36 mg/dl) and phosphorus (4.53±0.33 mg/dl), as compared to the healthy group. Significant elevation of GOT, GPT, GGT, BUN and creatinine revealed the
involvement of liver and kidney functions in T. equi infected horses.
Effect of Supplementation of Monensin Sodium on rumen metabolism and Milk Yield in Early Lactating Buffalo (Bubalus Bubalus)
Authors: . Prathviraj , Kulkarni Shrikant , Soren N. M. , B. Sathisha K. , Bellur Srinivas Reddy , Bellundagi Prashant , B. Ramachandra
Published: April 2019

The study was carried out to assess the effect of monensin sodium supplementation on rumen fermentation metabolites and milk yield in early lactating buffaloes. Twelve buffaloes in their 2nd week of lactation were selected. Control group was
fed on standard ration whereas the treatment group was supplemented with monensin sodium @ 200 mg/head/day in addition to standard ration. Rumen liquor and blood sample was collected at 2nd and 12th week of lactation. Total and individual volatile
fatty acids concentration was estimated by gas chromatography. Monensin sodium (P less than 0.05) decreases acetate and increases propionate concentration and decreases the ratio of acetate to propionate in the rumen liquor without altering the total
volatile fatty acid concentration in experimental period. Supplemented buffaloes yielded 8.22 per cent more milk than the control.
Kawista biscuit increased body weight of under five children
Authors: Metty Metty , Inayah Inayah
Published: April 2019

ABSTRACT

Background: Underweight in under five children was a nutritional problem that is often caused by inadequate food intake. Underweight could occur at 6-59 months or should had supplemental feeding and supplementary foods. Supplementary foods have contribute energy to the nutritional adequacy of under five children

Objective: To know the effectiveness of kawista biscuits in increasing of bodyweight under five children in Gondokusuman II Primary Health Care.

Methods: Subjects were underweight with the aged of 12-59 months, as much as 19 children. The study was conducted in the working area of Gondokusuman II Primary Health Center Yogyakarta City. This study was quasi experimental with purposive technique sampling. The effectiveness of biscuit kawista  a was analysed by paired t-test.

Result: Based on the results of effectiveness test of biscuit kawista for 2 weeks showed significant changes in body weight children (p = 0.000) as much as 0.29 kg.

Conclusion: kawista biscuit was significantly increase the weight of under five  children who suffer from malnutrition.

 

KEYWORDS: kawista biscuit (limonia acidissima), underweight, gain weight

 
Health Care Professionals’ Perspectives on the Secondary Use of Health Records to Improve Quality and Safety of Care in England: Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Neves Ana Luísa , Poovendran Dilkushi , Freise Lisa , Ghafur Saira , Flott Kelsey , Darzi Ara , Mayer Erik K
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Health care professionals (HCPs) are often patients’ first point of contact in what concerns the communication of the purposes, benefits, and risks of sharing electronic health records (EHRs) for nondirect care purposes. Their engagement is fundamental to ensure patients’ buy-in and a successful implementation of health care data sharing schemes. However, their views on this subject are seldom evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore HCPs’ perspectives on the secondary uses of health care data in England. Specifically, we aimed to assess their knowledge on its purposes and the main concerns about data sharing processes.

METHODS

A total of 30 interviews were conducted between March 27, 2017, and April 7, 2017, using a Web-based interview platform and following a topic guide with open-ended questions. The participants represented a variety of geographic locations across England (London, West Midlands, East of England, North East England, and Yorkshire and the Humber), covering both primary and secondary care services. The transcripts were compiled verbatim and systematically reviewed by 2 independent reviewers using the framework analysis method to identify emerging themes.

RESULTS

HCPs were knowledgeable about the possible secondary uses of data and highlighted its importance for patient profiling and tailored care, research, quality assurance, public health, and service delivery planning purposes. Main concerns toward data sharing included data accuracy, patients’ willingness to share their records, challenges on obtaining free and informed consent, data security, lack of adequacy or understanding of current policies, and potential patient exposure and exploitation.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest a high level of HCPs’ understanding about the purposes of data sharing for secondary purposes; however, some concerns still remain. A better understanding of HCPs’ knowledge and concerns could inform national communication policies and improve tailoring to maximize efficiency and improve patients’ buy-in.
Developing the Accuracy of Vital Sign Measurements Using the Lifelight Software Application in Comparison to Standard of Care Methods: Observational Study Protocol (Preprint)
Authors: Jones Thomas L , Heiden Emily , Mitchell Felicity , Fogg Carole , McCready Sharon , Pearce Laurence , Kapoor Melissa , Bassett Paul , Chauhan Anoop J
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Vital sign measurements are an integral component of clinical care, but current challenges with the accuracy and timeliness of patient observations can impact appropriate clinical decision making. Advanced technologies using techniques such as photoplethysmography have the potential to automate noncontact physiological monitoring and recording, improving the quality and accessibility of this essential clinical information.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aim to develop the algorithm used in the Lifelight software application and improve the accuracy of its estimated heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure measurements.

METHODS

This preliminary study will compare measurements predicted by the Lifelight software with standard of care measurements for an estimated population sample of 2000 inpatients, outpatients, and healthy people attending a large acute hospital. Both training datasets and validation datasets will be analyzed to assess the degree of correspondence between the vital sign measurements predicted by the Lifelight software and the direct physiological measurements taken using standard of care methods. Subgroup analyses will explore how the performance of the algorithm varies with particular patient characteristics, including age, sex, health condition, and medication.

RESULTS

Recruitment of participants to this study began in July 2018, and data collection will continue for a planned study period of 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Digital health technology is a rapidly evolving area for health and social care. Following this initial exploratory study to develop and refine the Lifelight software application, subsequent work will evaluate its performance across a range of health characteristics, and extended validation trials will support its pathway to registration as a medical device. Innovations in health technology such as this may provide valuable opportunities for increasing the efficiency and accessibility of vital sign measurements and improve health care services on a large scale across multiple health and care settings.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/14326
Assessment of Heart Failure Patients’ Interest in Mobile Health Apps for Self-Care: Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Sohn Albert , Speier William , Lan Esther , Aoki Kymberly , Fonarow Gregg , Ong Michael , Arnold Corey
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Heart failure is a serious public health concern that afflicts millions of individuals in the United States. Development of behaviors that promote heart failure self-care may be imperative to reduce complications and avoid hospital re-admissions. Mobile health solutions, such as activity trackers and smartphone apps, could potentially help to promote self-care through remote tracking and issuing reminders.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to ascertain heart failure patients’ interest in a smartphone app to assist them in managing their treatment and symptoms and to determine factors that influence their interest in such an app.

METHODS

In the clinic waiting room on the day of their outpatient clinic appointments, 50 heart failure patients participated in a self-administered survey. The survey comprised 139 questions from previously published, institutional review board–approved questionnaires. The survey measured patients’ interest in and experience using technology as well as their function, heart failure symptoms, and heart failure self-care behaviors. The Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) was among the 11 questionnaires and was used to measure the heart failure patients’ health-related quality of life through patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS

Participants were aged 64.5 years on average, 32% (16/50) of the participants were women, and 91% (41/45) of the participants were determined to be New York Heart Association Class II or higher. More than 60% (30/50) of the survey participants expressed interest in several potential features of a smartphone app designed for heart failure patients. Participant age correlated negatively with interest in tracking, tips, and reminders in multivariate regression analysis (P<.05). In contrast, MLHFQ scores (worse health status) produced positive correlations with these interests (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of heart failure patients showed interest in activity tracking, heart failure symptom management tips, and reminder features of a smartphone app. Desirable features and an understanding of factors that influence patient interest in a smartphone app for heart failure self-care may allow researchers to address common concerns and to develop apps that demonstrate the potential benefits of mobile technology.
Monitoring of Vedolizumab Infusion Therapy (MOVE-IT) Response With Fecal Inflammation Markers, Ultrasound, and Trough Serum Level in Patients With Ulcerative Colitis: Protocol for a Multicentric, Prospective, Noninterventional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Cording Jimmi , Blömacher Margit , Wiebe Berit Inga , Langhorst Jost , Kucharzik Torsten , Sturm Andreas , Schreiber Stefan , Helwig Ulf
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Vedolizumab has been shown to induce clinical remission in patients with active ulcerative colitis. Treatment with anti-integrin vedolizumab leads to clinical remission in 16.9% and clinical response in 47.1% of cases after 6 weeks. However, in clinical practice, no decision to discontinue or continue vedolizumab therapy is made until 14 weeks at the earliest.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to develop an algorithm for optimizing vedolizumab administration in patients with moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis by calculating the probability of clinical response at week 14, on the basis of the data from week 6.

METHODS

This is a prospective, single-arm, multicentric, noninterventional, observational study with no interim analyses and a sample size of 35 evaluable patients.

RESULTS

The enrollment started in August 2018 and was still open at the date of submission. The study is expected to complete in September 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

The early identification of patients who are responding to an integrin antibody is therapeutically beneficial. At the same time, patients who are not responding can be identified earlier. The development of a therapeutic algorithm for identifying patients as responders or nonresponders can thus help prescribing physicians avoid ineffective treatments and stop these very early.
Surveilling Influenza Incidence With Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web Traffic Data: Demonstration Using a Novel Dataset (Preprint)
Authors: Caldwell Wendy K , Fairchild Geoffrey , Del Valle Sara Y
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Influenza epidemics result in a public health and economic burden worldwide. Traditional surveillance techniques, which rely on doctor visits, provide data with a delay of 1 to 2 weeks. A means of obtaining real-time data and forecasting future outbreaks is desirable to provide more timely responses to influenza epidemics.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to present the first implementation of a novel dataset by demonstrating its ability to supplement traditional disease surveillance at multiple spatial resolutions.

METHODS

We used internet traffic data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website to determine the potential usability of this data source. We tested the traffic generated by 10 influenza-related pages in 8 states and 9 census divisions within the United States and compared it against clinical surveillance data.

RESULTS

Our results yielded an r2 value of 0.955 in the most successful case, promising results for some cases, and unsuccessful results for other cases. In the interest of scientific transparency to further the understanding of when internet data streams are an appropriate supplemental data source, we also included negative results (ie, unsuccessful models). Models that focused on a single influenza season were more successful than those that attempted to model multiple influenza seasons. Geographic resolution appeared to play a key role, with national and regional models being more successful, overall, than models at the state level.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that internet data may be able to complement traditional influenza surveillance in some cases but not in others. Specifically, our results show that the CDC website traffic may inform national- and division-level models but not models for each individual state. In addition, our results show better agreement when the data were broken up by seasons instead of aggregated over several years. We anticipate that this work will lead to more complex nowcasting and forecasting models using this data stream.
Nutritional assessment in childhood cancer survivors: SCCSS-Nutrition study protocol (Preprint)
Authors: Belle Fabiën Naomi , Beck Popovic Maja , Ansari Marc , Otth Maria , Kuehni Claudia Elisabeth , Bochud Murielle
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) are at high risk of developing adverse late health effects. Poor nutritional intake may contribute to this risk, but information about dietary intake is limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study will assess dietary intake of CCSs and compare two dietary assessment tools: a self-reported food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and dietary measurements from urine spot samples.

METHODS

In the Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study, we assessed dietary intake of CCSs via a validated FFQ. To a subset of CCSs from the French-speaking region of Switzerland, we sent a urine spot collection kit to analyse urinary sodium, potassium, urea, urate, creatinine, and phosphate content. We will compare the FFQ with the urine spot analyses to quantify the intake of different nutrients in CCSs. Data collection took place between March 2016 and March 2018.

RESULTS

We contacted 1599 CCSs of whom 919 (57%) returned an FFQ. We excluded 11 CCSs who were pregnant or were breastfeeding, 35 CCSs with missing dietary data, and 71 CCSs who had unreliable FFQ data, resulting in 802 CCSs available for FFQ analyses. To a subset of 197 CCSs in French-speaking Switzerland we sent a urine spot collection kit, and 111 (56%) returned a urine sample. We expect to have the results from analyses of these samples in mid-2019.

CONCLUSIONS

The SCCSS-Nutrition study has collected in-depth dietary data that will allow us to assess dietary intake and quality and compare two dietary assessment tools. This study will contribute to the current knowledge of nutrition among CCSs and is a step towards surveillance guidelines and targeted nutritional recommendations for CCSs in Switzerland.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier SCCSS: NCT03297034
Efficacy and Safety of an mHealth App and Wearable Device in Physical Performance for Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Development and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kim Yoon , Seo Jinserk , An So-Yeon , Sinn Dong Hyun , Hwang Ji Hye
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Exercise is predicted to have a positive effect among hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, these patients are hesitant to start and build up an exercise program for one major reason: the vague fear of developing hepatic decompensation, a potentially fatal condition that can lead to death. Integrating mobile health (mHealth) with individualized exercise programs could be a possible option for promoting physical capacity among HCC patients.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rehabilitation exercises, which have been individually prescribed via an mHealth app, on physical fitness, body composition, biochemical profile, and quality of life among HCC patients.

METHODS

A total of 37 HCC patients were enrolled in a 12-week course with an mHealth app program targeted to HCC patients. The wearable wristband device Neofit (Partron Co) was provided to participants, and recorded daily physical data, such as the number of steps, calorie expenditure, exercise time, and heart rate. Each participant was given an individualized rehabilitation exercise program that was prescribed and adjusted at the 6-week midintervention period based on the assessment results. At baseline, 6-week, and 12-week sessions, participants’ physical fitness levels (ie, 6-minute walk test, grip strength test, and 30-second chair stand test) were measured. Physical activity levels, as measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF); body composition (ie, body mass index, body fat percentage, and muscle mass); biochemical profiles; and quality of life, as measured by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire C30, were assessed at baseline and at the end point. At the 6-week midpoint, exercise intensity was individually adjusted.

RESULTS

Of the 37 patients, 31 (84%) completed the 12-week intervention. Grip strength improved significantly after 12 weeks of the intervention. The 30-second chair stand test and the 6-minute walk test showed significant improvement from 0 to 6 weeks, from 0 to 12 weeks, and from 6 to 12 weeks. Muscle mass and the IPAQ-SF score increased significantly after 12 weeks of the intervention without biochemical deterioration.

CONCLUSIONS

Following 12 weeks of mHealth care, including an individually prescribed rehabilitation exercise program, we saw significant improvements in physical fitness, body composition, and physical activity without any complication or biochemical deterioration among compensated HCC patients who had completed therapy.
Ammonia Nitrogen Pollution Characteristics of Natural Rainfall in Urban Business District in Southern China: A Case Study of Chengdu City
Authors: Chen Xintuo , Wang Yiyao , Lai Chengyue , She Jia , Zhong Ke , Chen Jiayang , Wang Zhaoli
Published: April 2019

Chengdu city was chosen as the representative of southern cities in China in this work, characteristics of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) pollution in natural rainfall were analyzed by measuring the concentration in 15 natural rainfalls from April to September in 2017. The influence of ammonia emission from toilet vent of building on NH3-N pollution in rainfall was investigated, and the variation of total NH3-N pollutants and its influencing factors were expounded. The results showed that the average concentration of NH3-N in first rainfall was the highest, reaching 18.2mg/L, the average concentration of NH3-N in the subsequent 14 rainfalls was between 2.0 and 5.0mg/L, which is higher than Grade V (?2mg/L) of Environmental Quality Standards of Surface Water (GB 3838-2002), and was an important source of NH3-N pollution in water. The concentration of NH3-N in natural rainfalls decreased with the increase of the distance between the sampling point and the toilet vent, indicating that the ammonia discharged from toilet exhaust is a major source of NH3-N pollution in urban atmosphere. The main factors affecting total NH3-N pollutants in natural precipitation include rainfall intensity, rainfall duration and drought days. The total amount of NH3-N pollutants in surface runoff is less than that in natural rainfall.
Mesophilic, thermophilic and keratinophilic fungi in a rice field soil and phylloplane fungi
Authors: Caretta Giuseppe , Del Frate Giuseppe , Della Franca Paola , Guglielminetti Maria , Mangiarotti Anna Maria , Savino Elena
Published: April 2019

Hongos mesofílicos, termofílicos y queratinofílicos en el suelo y hongos mesofílicos sobre el filoplano del arroz (Oryza sativa) fueron aislados en diversos estados de cultivo y desarrollo de los granos, a partir de un campo cercano a Pavia (Norte de Italia)Los hongos mesofílicos aislados del suelo comprenden 24 géneros con 35 especies, Acremonium strictum y Aspergillus fumigatus fueron dominantes y estuvieron presentes durante todas las etapas de desarrollo del arroz.Cladosporium cladosporioides. Fusarium oxysporum, Penicillium brevicompactum, Phoma fimeti y Trichoderma harzianum fueron aislados con frecuencia.Los hongos termófilos estuvieron representados por 7 géneros y 7 especies. La especie termotolerante Aspergillus fumigatus y la termofílica Thermomyces lanuginosus fueron dominantes.Los hongos queratinofílicos incluyen los géneros Arthroderma,Chrysosporium, Keratinomyces, Microsporum y Trichophyton. Chrysosporium indicum, Ch. keratinophilum fueron dominantes.los hongos del filoplano abarcaron 26 géneros con 48 especies. Los más frecuentes fueron Alternaría altenata, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Epicoccum purpurascens, Fusarium moniliforme y Gibberella acuminata.Comparando los hongos registrados en nuestros anteriores estudios sobre campos de maíz y trigo observamos que entre los hongos termofílicos y del filoplano las especies dominantes eran aproximadamente las mismas: en tanto que los especies dominantes mesofílicos y queratinofílicas difieren en cada cereal investigado
Spiromastix warcupii, xanthothecium peruvianum, tolypocladium niveum y phialemonium curvatum. Cuatro aislamientos fúngicos de interés en suelos chilenos. II
Authors: Piontelli L. E. , Toro S. M. M. A.
Published: April 2019

Se informa y describen los hallazgos de 4 especies fúngicas aisladas del suelo y del pelaje de animales domésticos (perros) y silvestres (conejos): Spiromastix warcupli, Xanthothecium peruvianum, Tolypocladium niveum y Phialemonium curvatum.
Influence of Scleral Lens on Intraocular Pressure
Authors: Aitsebaomo A. Philip , Wong-Powell Jeannette , Miller William , Amir Farshid
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Since Scleral Lenses (SL) rest entirely on the sclera and may affect underlying anatomical structures that may influence aqueous humor flow, it is important to determine the effect of SL wear on intra-ocular pressure (IOP).

 

Methods

Nine subjects with normal corneas were recruited for an Institutional Review Board-approved study. Best fit SL from a 15.8 mm diameter 0.4mm thick diagnostic-lens set was fitted on a randomly selected eye, with a silicone-hydrogel soft lens (soft lens) on the other eye. Three IOP measurements were taken with rebound iCare tonometer prior to lens application (baseline data measured at about 9:30AM), and immediately after lens removal (final data measured at about 5:30PM). Baseline and final lens vault was determined with anterior segment Zeiss optical coherence tomography (OCT). Mean baseline and final IOP for each eye was analyzed with a Student-t-test, 2-way repeated ANOVA, and the Bland-Altman plot.

 

RESULTS

IOP was elevated with SL wear for all subjects. Soft lens eyes showed a slight elevation for some but decreased in others. Mean IOP change was 5.81 ± 1.62 mm Hg for SL and -0.62 ± 0.88 mm Hg for soft lens eyes. When mean IOP in SL eyes was compared to soft lens eyes, unpaired t-test showed a significant difference (p <0.05) between the means. Bland-Altman bias was 6.43 (SD of bias 3.139). Repeated ANOVA also showed a significant difference between baseline and final IOP.

 

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that SL wear can elevate IOP. Eye care practitioners (ECP) must consider this possible outcome in treating patients wearing SL. Additional studies are needed to determine the clinical implications of SL wear on IOP.
Uji Aktivitas Toksisitas Dan Antimikroba Flavonoid Total Daun Benalu (Dendrophthoe pentandra (L) Miq) Dari Pohon Glodokan (Polyalthia longifolia)
Authors: FAHMI ALIYAH , Bulan Rumondang
Published: April 2019

Penelitian mengenai uji aktivitas toksisitas dan antimikroba flavonoid total daun benalu (Dendrophthoe pentandra (L) Miq) dari pohon glodokan (Polyalthia longifolia) telah dilakukan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui aktivitas toksisitas dari flavonoid total daun benalu pohon glodokan berdasarkan metode Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT)  menggunakan larva udang Artemia salina Leach diperoleh Lethal Concentration (LC50) sebesar 30.06 mg/L yang berarti memiliki aktivitas toksisitas yang toksik sementara untuk aktivitas antimikroba dari flavonoid total daun benalu pohon glodokan dengan Metode Difusi Agar diperoleh diameter zona hambat pada Streptococcus  mutans pada konsentrasi sampel flavonoid total pohon glodokan 3%, 6% dan 9 % adalah 6; 9 dan 17.25 mm, pada Escherichia coli adalah 3.55; 4.25 dan 9.15 mm dan pada Candida albicans adalah 8.30; 4 dan 5.30 mm dimana semakin besar konsentrasi maka daya hambat pada S. mutans dan E. coli semakin besar namun pada C. albicans kurang mempengaruhi tetapi memiliki aktivitas hambat yang baik sehingga efektif dikembangkan sebagai zat antimikroba.
Learning Management System (LMS) Sebagai Aplikasi Pengembangan Materi Interaktif Pokok Bahasan Daur Biogeokimia Berbasis Computer Assisted Instruction.
Authors: Sanova Aulia
Published: April 2019

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan protype desain produk e-learning berbasis LMS menggunakan aplikasi moodle, khususnya pada materi Daur Biogeokimia yang di pelajari pada mata kuliah Kimia Lingkungan. Proses pembelajaran dalam LMS ini mengakomodasi beberapa konten dengan berbagai vitur yaitu course content yang mencakup artikel, materi modul yang dikemas dalam bentuk interaktif flash animasi, tugas/ujian, dan video pembelajaran dan penugasan untuk mengukur pencapaian mahasiswa

Penelitian ini menggunakan desain penelitian dan pengembangan (Research and Development) modifikasi Sugiyono. Subyek penelitian yaitu mahasiswa Program Studi Pendidikan Kimia yang ditentukan secara convenience sampling. Data yang diambil adalah kelayakan dari segi materi dan media serta  tangggapan mahasiswa terhadap produk yang telah dikembangkan melalui angket.

Tanggapan ahli menunjukkan e-learning berbasis Moodle sangat layak dari segi media dan layak dari segi materi. Hasil angket tanggapan siswa pada uji coba skala kecil menunjukkan bahwa mayoritas mahasiswa memberikan tanggapan positif dimana para mahasiswa sangat tertarik dan memberikan respon jika aplikasi LMS moodle merupakan bentuk inovasi dalam alternatif proses pembelajaran.
KARAKTERISTIK SIFAT KIMIA LAHAN GAMBUT YANG DI KONVERSI MENJADI PERKEBUNAN SAWIT DI KABUPATEN KETAPANG
Authors: Hermanto Sarwendah Ratnawati
Published: April 2019

Pemanfaatan lahan gambut sebagai lahan perkebunan memerlukan perhatian khusus dan manajemen yang tepat karena pengembangan perkebunan  sangat  tergantung  pada  status  kesuburan  tanah.  Konversi  lahan gambut menjadi perkebunan berdampak pada ekosistem gambut asli. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mempelajari perubahan sifat kimia lahan gambut yang dikonversi menjadi perkebunan sawit dan mempelajari dampak dari alih fungsi lahan gambut menjadi perkebunan sawit pada berbagai usia tanam terhadap perubahan sifat kimia tanah.

Penelitian yang dilakukan ialah penelitian observasi. Lokasi pengambilan sampel ada di 4 titik di daerah sungai melayu, yaitu lahan gambut murni, kebun kelapa sawit usia 2 tahun, 8 tahun dan 16 tahun. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, diperoleh data bahwa kandungan beberapa sifat kimia tanah mengalami perubahan, baik itu nilai pH, KTK, C-organik, N-total, P- tersedia dan Kation basa (K, Ca, Mg dan Na). Peningkatan pH lahan gambut yang dikonversi menjadi perkebunan kelapa sawit sebesar 0,1-0,4%. Sedangkan untuk nilai KTK, C-organik, N-total, P- tersedia dan Kation basa mengalami penurunan dengan harga yang bervariasi. Alih fungsi lahan gambut menjadi perkebunan sawit sangat berpengaruh pada kesuburan tanah. Perlakuan pemupukan sebagai upaya pengembalian hara yang terangkut oleh tanaman saat panen tidak berlangsung dengan optimal. Dengan demikian, perlu adanya upaya perbaikan hara tanah agar kondisi tidak semakin buruk.

 

Kata kunci: Alih fungsi, Lahan Gambut, Sawit, Kimia