bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Azole-resistant Candida albicans Spondylodiscitis After Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Relvas-Silva Miguel , Pinho André Rodrigues , Vital Luísa , Leão Beatriz , Sousa António Nogueira , Carvalho Ana Cláudia , Veludo Vitorino
Published: July 2020

Case:

We present a case of azole and partial caspofungin-resistant Candida albicans spondylodiscitis, after bariatric surgery with bowel perforation. Treatment included debridement and several months of anidulafungin, complemented with antibacterial therapy because of relapse for bacterial superinfection. After treatment, the infection did not recur clinically or radiologically during one and half years follow-up.

Conclusion:

Although C. albicans spondylodiscitis is rare, fungi should be suspected as a causative agent. Adequate history, imaging and laboratory testing, and medical and surgical treatment should be performed to successfully eradicate the infection and resolve potential neurological deficits.
WITHDRAWN: PADI4 regulates osteosarcoma proliferation primarily via Wnt/β-catenin and MEK/ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Guo Jianping , Yin Lei , Zhang Xuezhong , Su Peng , Zhai Qiaoli
Published: July 2020

Background: Peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PADI4), an important modification enzyme of proteins, has received increased attention for its role in tumorigenesis of several human cancers. However, the effect of PADI4 on osteosarcoma remains largely unknown. Here, we evaluated the impact and mechanism of PADI4 on osteosarcoma proliferation.Methods: Impact of PADI4 on proliferation of osteosarcoma cells is detected by the method of CCK8 and colony formation assay. Expression of PADI4 as well as Wnt/β-catenin and MEK/ERK signaling markers after knocking down or ectopically expressing PADI4 or PADI4 inhibitor treatment is investigated by Western blot and RT-PCR. Then we investigated relevance of the expression level of the PADI4 in osteosarcoma samples and paired normal tissues by Western blot and RT-PCR. To further confirm whether PADI4 affects osteosarcoma tumorigenesis in vivo, we performed tumor formation experiments in nude mice.Results: Firstly, ectopically expressing PADI4 showed positive regulation on colony formation capacity of osteosarcoma cells. Secondly, PADI4 stimulated Wnt/β-catenin and MEK/ERK signaling in osteosarcoma cells. Thirdly, expression of PADI4 is higher in osteosarcoma samples compared with normal tissues. In vivo experiment also verified the positive effect of PADI4 on the growth of transplanted tumors in nude mice.Conclusions: Taken together, our results revealed PADI4 promoted proliferation of osteosarcoma via Wnt/β-catenin and MEK/ERK signaling pathway. This study may expand our understanding of osteosarcoma tumorigenesis and identify PADI4 as a potential target for diagnosis and treatment of osteosarcoma.
Perioperative Lung Ultrasound Pattern Changes: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Krawczyk Paweł , Jastrzębska Agnieszka , Szczeklik Wojciech , Andres Janusz
Published: July 2020

Background

General anesthesia and positive pressure ventilation are associated with perioperative pulmonary complications. Lung ultrasound (LUS) is a method used to evaluate lung parenchyma. The purpose of this study was to evaluate LUS patterns in a cohort of women undergoing gynecological surgery with uncomplicated general anesthesia.
Methods

Patients were assessed according to the 8-zone LUS assessment protocol used to detect lung sliding, A-lines, B-lines, interstitial syndrome and lung consolidation. Each patient was screened at specific time intervals: before induction of anesthesia, at induction, 30 and 60 minutes after induction and within two hours after recovery.
Results

A total of 99 patients undergoing gynecological surgery with uneventful anesthesia from November 2017 to November 2018 were included in this study. A total of 426 LUS records were retained for further analysis. Overall, no significant changes to patients’ A-line appearance were detected, regardless of the time of assessment. There was, however, an increase in the number of B-lines at the screening times of 30 and 60 minutes after induction, as compared to initial assessments (P = 0.011 and P < 0.001 respectively), and an increase in the number of positive regions (≥ 3 B-lines) at 30 and 60 minutes after induction and after recovery, as compared to initial assessment ( P < 0.001; P < 0.001 and P = 0.001 respectively).
Conclusions

An uneventful anesthesia may predispose to abnormal LUS findings and should be considered while interpreting of LUS results in cases with perioperative pulmonary complications.
Larval Metal Pollutant Exposure Alters the Epigenetic Architecture of the Major Malaria Vector Anopheles Arabiensis (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Jeanrenaud Alexander C.S.N. , Brooke Basil D. , Oliver Shune
Published: July 2020

BackgroundAnopheles arabiensis (a member of the An. gambiae species complex) is a major vector of malaria. These mosquitoes typically breed in clean bodies of water, but can also utilise polluted waters. Although this expands their breeding range, adaptation to breeding in polluted waters necessitates coping with a large amount of environmental stress in the form of exposure to heavy metal pollutants. Environmental stress can induce heritable changes to an organism without altering the basal genetic code. This occurs by rapid changes in the regulatory elements associated with nucleic acids that result in changes in patterns of gene expression and silencing. This is known as epigenetic regulation. There is currently little information on epigenetic regulation in An. arabiensis. The aim of this study was to examine whether exposure to metal pollutants at the larval stage induced alterations of epigenetic markers resulting in phenotypic changes in insecticide susceptible and resistant laboratory strains of An. arabiensis. ResultsThere was a marked difference in the phenotypic response in adult mosquitoes of the insecticide susceptible strain compared to that of its’ resistant counterpart. The susceptible strain showed reduced fertility and fecundity in response to epigenetic manipulation. For males and females of the resistant strain, exposure to nucleic acid modifying drugs typically increased their tolerance to insecticides. In the insecticide susceptible strain, regulatory signals associated with gene silencing were increased, while those associated with gene expression were reduced in response to heavy metal exposure. By contrast, the insecticide resistant strain showed a decrease in signatures associated with gene silencing as well as an increase in signatures associate with chromatin remodelling. ConclusionsLarval exposure to heavy metal contaminants can result in heritable changes in gene expression. These data suggest that exposure to the same pollutants can result in different biological outcomes in insecticide susceptible and resistant adult An. arabiensis, and that these changes are reflected in their respective global? epigenetic signatures.
Formation of competitive development strategy key performance indicators’ system for consulting companies
Authors: Gruzina Inna , Poliukhovych Maryna
Published: July 2020

The information on the main stages of key performance indicators selection and formation for the process of estimating the competitive development strategy effectiveness of consulting companies is analyzed, the types of indicators, their differences are examined, the existing views and recommendations of researchers and experts on the expediency of using certain indicators directly by consulting companies are generalized. Various areas of consulting are described and it is suggested to take into account the specifics of the consulting business when selecting relevant performance indicators of their competitive strategies. Comprehensive and relentless globalization has made the protection of company’s intellectual capital one of the key factors in the success of enterprise development. As the main asset of any consulting company are people and their intellectual potential, competition in this area has become quite strong and fierce. Since the main asset of the consulting company is people and their intellectual potential, the competition in this field is very strong and fierce. Thus, the predominance of intellectual work requires specific accounting for the assets of consulting companies and an assessment of the efficiency of use of these assets in accordance with the developed strategy. Given the fact that, by their content, performance indicators should assist managers and business owners in making decisions about evaluating the effectiveness of their chosen process or the performance of a particular system in the enterprise, evaluating the effectiveness of business development as a whole, the possibility of using a certain range of indicators to evaluate consulting company’s strategies effectiveness was considered. In particular, the results of the analysis of the main goals and objectives set in the development of a competitive consulting company’s development strategy suggested the use of groups of indicators (both financial and non-financial) to evaluate the effectiveness of the enterprise competitive strategy, enterprise development strategy or directly to evaluate the competitive development strategy of consulting companies. In addition, the emphasis is placed on determining the optimal number of indicators of the consulting company’s development strategy and analysis of data of different size and geography of business of consulting companies.
ESTUDO DE EFICIÊNCIA ENERGÉTICA DE UMA PLANTA DE ELETRO REFINO DE COBRE: UM ESTUDO DE CASO REALIZADO NA BAHIA
Authors: Vaz Joedes Matos , Santos Alex , Barbosa Josiane Dantas Viana , Almeida Antônio Gabriel Souza
Published: July 2020

Diante de um mercado de competitividade global, no qual as organizações necessitam de diferenciais para manterem suas operações e gerarem lucros, a eficiência energética torna-se uma importante ferramenta para as empresas com característica de intensidade energética, podendo torná-las mais competitivas e sustentáveis. À luz disso, este trabalho abrange o estudo da eficiência elétrica em uma planta de metalurgia e refinaria de cobre, localizada no estado da Bahia, tendo como objetivo geral identificar oportunidades de eficiência energética demonstrando a respectiva viabilidade como ferramenta na tomada de decisão no processo de refinamento de cobre por eletrólise, com foco no insumo de energia elétrica. Neste sentido, foi realizado o levantamento das oportunidades de eficiência energética, as possíveis ações de eliminação das perdas e a realização de uma avaliação econômica das oportunidades identificadas. Em relação à metodologia foi realizado uma revisão teórica do tema, a pesquisa em documentos internos e a condução de entrevistas com colaboradores de diversas especialidades proficientes nos temas: operação, mecânica, elétrica e instrumentação. O resultado do estudo aponta que as principais oportunidades e ações a serem implantadas são relacionadas aos maquinários e à iluminação, e neste sentido foi aplicado uma simulação no ambiente de uma linha de processo.
SOLUÇÃO PARALELA PARA O PROCESSAMENTO DE IMAGENS TRIDIMENSIONAIS DE ARGAMASSA LEVE
Authors: Iglesias Susana Marrero , Silva Mendonça Rodrigo , Valero Orellana Esbel Tomás , Sanchez Dominguez Dany
Published: July 2020

O uso de técnicas de análise de imagens tridimensionais obtidas a partir de microtomografia computadorizada, é um recurso importante para a caracterização de materiais usados na construção civil.  Não entanto, a aplicação destas técnicas é dificultada pelo tempo de processamento e pela grande quantidade de memória necessária para armazenamento e caracterização das mesmas, principal desvantagem da análise 3D. Neste artigo apresentamos um conjunto de algoritmos com diferentes abordagens desenvolvidos para extrair parâmetros que permitam a caraterização do material, de forma eficiente e escaláveis visando permitir o processamento de grandes volumes de informação em um tempo razoável. Para o processamento das imagens foram utilizadas abordagens de uma e duas passagens, modificadas para trabalhar com imagens tridimensionais. Foi introduzido também técnicas de processamento paralelo em arquitetura de memória distribuída, com o uso de troca de mensagens baseada em MPI, visando aumentar a capacidade e a velocidade de processamento. As diversas implementações foram avaliadas em termos da qualidade dos resultados, do tempo de processamento e do uso de memória, com ajuda das métricas apropriadas. Os algoritmos mostraram resultados satisfatórios na extração dos parâmetros. A implementação UFMIX mostrou capacidade para processar grandes volumes de informação (grandes imagens 3D), tendo limitações no desempenho devido, fundamentalmente, à velocidade de I/O. As implementações paralelas de RGX_PV e UFX_PV mostraram-se mais indicados para conjuntos maiores de imagens, com destaque UFX_PV que apresentou uma maior eficiência em todos os casos. Os resultados demonstram a viabilidade de realizar a análise tridimensional de imagens tomográficas de grande porte com estes algoritmos.
ANÁLISE DA ESTABILIDADE NUMÉRICA NA SOLUÇÃO DA EQUAÇÃO DA CONDUÇÃO DE CALOR PELO MÉTODO DE DIFERENÇAS FINITAS
Authors: Zancanaro Júnior Flavio Vanderlei , Cisco Lenon Audibert , Rangel Nicolas Luca Suppi Vinhas , Mendes Tallis Fernando , Gomes Ronald Antunes
Published: July 2020

Neste trabalho analisou-se o comportamento da estabilidade numérica das soluções obtidas com o emprego do método de diferenças finitas, considerando a distribuição de temperatura em um domínio unidimensional (1D). O método de diferenças centrais e o esquema temporal explícito foram empregados para discretizações no espaço e no tempo, respectivamente. Os valores obtidos são para três números de Fourier (?Fo) 0,25, 0,5 e 0,6 e uma malha de 51 pontos igualmente espaçados. O problema de condução de calor é resolvido para uma barra de aço carbono, considerando condições de contorno de temperaturas e fluxos prescritas. Além disso, destaca-se a existência de um termo fonte. Com a análise dos resultados, verificou-se que para valores de ?Fo entre 0,25 e 0,5, mantendo o critério de estabilidade a solução é estável e convergente e os resultados dos campos de temperatura são próximos. Por outro lado, para valores de ?Fo ligeiramente superiores ao limite, verificou-se que a solução oscila e desestabiliza.
VALIDAÇÃO EXPERIMENTAL E MODELAGEM MATEMÁTICA DE UM MOTOR DE INDUÇÃO TRIFÁSICO COM ROTOR GAIOLA DE ESQUILO
Authors: Debiaze de Paula Débora , Ramos Ferreira Andreyna Sárila , Jefferson Dias de Oliveira Evald Paulo , Zelir Azzolin Rodrigo
Published: July 2020

Conforme dados da International Energy Agency, os motores elétricos são encarregados por 45% do consumo da energia elétrica global. Dentre os motores mais utilizados se destacam os motores de corrente alternada. Eles são muito utilizados nos sistemas de acionamentos eletromecânicos e possuem uma construção simples, versátil, com pouca manutenção e de baixo custo. Sabendo disso, é importante entender o funcionamento desse tipo de motor, bem como sua modelagem matemática, que não é trivial. Dessa forma, a contribuição principal deste trabalho é apresentar a modelagem matemática de motores de indução trifásicos passo a passo, de uma forma clara e validar experimentalmente o modelo matemático.
Three decades of oxygen transfer tests in clean water in a pilot scale test tank with fine-bubble diffusers and the resulting conclusions for WWTP operation
Authors: Behnisch J. , Schwarz M. , Wagner M.
Published: July 2020

We summarized the experience from three decades of oxygen transfer testing and aeration research at the Technical University of Darmstadt to validate the oxygen transfer efficiency of modern fine-bubble diffusers. A total of 306 oxygen transfer tests in clean water of 65 different fine-bubble diffusers, carried out in the same test tank under identical test conditions, were analysed and compared with previous results. As a result, we could show that the performance of fine-bubble aeration systems has increased by 17% over the last three decades. Therefore, modern well-designed and operated aeration systems can achieve specific standard oxygen transfer efficiency (SSOTE) values between 8.5 and 9.8% · m−1. Additionally, a comparison of various diffuser types and diffuser densities was done. Based on the new results, an exemplary cost/benefit analysis for a 100,000 PE WWTP shows the calculation of an optimized diffuser density with respect to investment and operating costs.
Effective lead removal from aqueous solutions using cellulose nanofibers obtained from water hyacinth
Authors: Ramos-Vargas Sarai , Huirache-Acuña Rafael , Guadalupe Rutiaga-Quiñones José , Cortés-Martínez Raúl
Published: July 2020

In this paper, the removal of Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions using cellulose nanofibers (NFC) and crystalline nanocellulose (CNC) was studied. These adsorbents were obtained from water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) by the Kraft process. Characterization was carried out to NFC and CNC by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), showing excellent structural properties and high availability of surface functional groups. The influence of different parameters on the adsorption process was evaluated through batch-type adsorption experiments. The results showed effective lead removal reaching adsorption equilibrium at 180 min. Isotherms results showed maximum adsorption capacities (Qmax) of 80.02, 84.64, and 87.10 mg/g for NFC at 25, 30 and 45 °C, respectively. Results of Pb(II) adsorption isotherms by CNC showed a Qmax of 17.90, 28.20, and 30.36 mg/g at 25, 30 and 45 °C, respectively. Isotherm data were best described by the Langmuir–Freundlich model for NFC, and the Freundlich model best-described CNC isotherm. Lead adsorption mechanisms were different for both biosorbents. The thermodynamic parameters of the process were calculated. Endothermic reactions were observed for both materials. NFC and CNC materials have great potential as biosorbents for the removal of lead ions from water.
Ensuring the Competitiveness in the Advertising Industry by Means of Strategic Management
Authors: Drobiashchenko Vitalii Alekseevich , Moroz Sergei Igorevich
Published: July 2020

The article offers a detailed justification for the need for timely determination and formation of strategic management of the organizations' operational activities in the field of advertising services. This approach allows you to organize an effective advertising process, determine acceptable options for strategic planning of activities.
A Phospholipase-A Activity in Soluble Leishmania Antigens Causes Instability of Liposomes
Authors: Chavoshian Omid , Arabsalmani Mahdieh , Jaafari Mahmoud Reza , Khamesipour Ali , Abbasi Azam , Saberi Zahra , Badiee Ali
Published: July 2020

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate the existence of phospholipase-A (PLA) activity in
Soluble L. major Antigens (SLA) because of no reports for it so far. Liposomes were used as sensors to
evaluate PLA activity.

Objective:

Liposomal SLA consisting of Egg Phosphatidylcholine (EPC) or Sphingomyelin (SM) were
prepared by two different methods in different pH or temperatures and characterized by Dynamic Light
Scattering (DLS) and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC).

Methods:

Lipid hydrolysis led to the disruption of EPC liposomal SLA in both methods but the Film
Method (FM) produced more stable liposomes than the Detergent Removal Method (DRM).

Results:

The preparation of EPC liposomal SLA at pH 6 via FM protected liposomes from hydrolysis to
some extent for a short time. EPC liposomes but not SM liposomes were disrupted in the presence of SLA.

Conclusion:

Therefore, a phospholipid without ester bond such as SM should be utilized in liposome
formulations containing PLA as an encapsulating protein.
Synthesis and Characterization of Quinoline-3-Carboxamide Derivatives as Inhibitors of the ATM Kinase
Authors: Ravi Srimadhavi , Barui Sugata , Kirubakaran Sivapriya , Duhan Parul , Bhowmik Kaushik
Published: July 2020

Background:

The importance of inhibiting the kinases of the DDR pathway for radiosensitizing
cancer cells is well established. Cancer cells exploit these kinases for their survival, which leads to
the development of resistance towards DNA damaging therapeutics.

Objective:

In this article, the focus is on targeting the key mediator of the DDR pathway, the ATM
kinase. A new set of quinoline-3-carboxamides, as potential inhibitors of ATM, is reported.

Methods:

Quinoline-3-carboxamide derivatives were synthesized and cytotoxicity assay was performed
to analyze the effect of molecules on different cancer cell lines like HCT116, MDA-MB-468, and
MDA-MB-231.

Results:

Three of the synthesized compounds showed promising cytotoxicity towards a selected set of
cancer cell lines. Western Blot analysis was also performed by pre-treating the cells with quercetin, a
known ATM upregulator, by causing DNA double-strand breaks. SAR studies suggested the importance
of the electron-donating nature of the R group for the molecule to be toxic. Finally, Western-Blot analysis
confirmed the down-regulation of ATM in the cells. Additionally, the PTEN negative cell line,
MDA-MB-468, was more sensitive towards the compounds in comparison with the PTEN positive cell
line, MDA-MB-231. Cytotoxicity studies against 293T cells showed that the compounds were at least
three times less toxic when compared with HCT116.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these experiments will lay the groundwork for the evolution of potent and
selective ATM inhibitors for the radio- and chemo-sensitization of cancer cells.
In Silico Anticancer Evaluation, Molecular Docking and Pharmacophore Modeling of Flavonoids against Various Cancer Targets
Authors: James Jainey Puthenveettil , Kumar Pankaj , Kumar Abhishek , Bhat Katte Ishwar , Shastry Chakrakodi Shashidhara
Published: July 2020

Background:

Designing and development of molecules for cancer treatment useful and
with no side effects are a big challenge for the researchers in the field of drug discovery. The use of
phytochemicals for chemoprevention is gaining more advantages, and intake of flavonoids has
proved to reduce the occurrence of various cancers.

Objectives:

The present study was focused on selecting eight flavonoids and study them by in silico
methods to analyse the interactions, affinity and pharmacophoric features that participate in the interactions
between the flavonoid and the active sites of different cancer targets.

Methods:

The cancer targets were downloaded from the protein data bank, and flavonoids from
PubChem and were docked by Glide XP molecular docking method to find the molecular interactions.
The binding energy was calculated by Prime MM-GBSA application and ADMET analysis by
Qikprop of Schrodinger. The anticancer potential of flavonoids screening was based on an online
tool, Pass predictor. Phase module was used to find the common pharmacophore features that participate
in essential interactions between the flavonoid and the active site.

Results:

In this study, myricetin has proved to be the best flavonoid for the treatment of breast and
lung cancer with docking score of -11.50 kcal/mol and -10.56 kcal/mol respectively, whereas, quercetin
has proved to be the best for prostate and colorectal cancer with docking score of -14.18
kcal/mol and -12.94 kcal/mol, respectively. The responsible forces for the interaction of these flavonoids
are hydrogen bond, hydrophobic interactions, polar and pi-pi stackings. The PASS tool predicted
the anticancer potential for the flavonoids, in particular, myricetin had responded highly active for most
cancer cells. The hypothesis AADRR_1 has the highest survival score, which indicates the best alignment
of the active ligands and represents the best pharmacophore model for anticancer activity.

Conclusion:

This work has screened eight flavonoids against various cancer targets and shown the
binding interactions between them, stating that myricetin is the suitable lead candidate for breast and
lung cancer; whereas, quercetin is the best lead for prostate and colorectal cancer. And these data are
about the results obtained from PASS predictor. Moreover, the pharmacophore model has generated
for the flavonoids, which correlate activities with the spatial arrangement of various chemical features.
Therefore, this investigation strongly suggests that these flavonoids can be used as leads as
anticancer agents.
A Computational Molecular Docking Studies on the Tryparedoxin Peroxidase of Leishmania donovani Responsible for Visceral Leishmaniasis in Human
Authors: Bhowmik Sagar , Samrat Sk. Mohiuddin , Akhter Md. Shamim
Published: July 2020

Objective:

Hydroperoxide metabolism involving trypanothione, key for the survival of Leishmania,
is a validated target for rational drug design. In this study, we aim in silico drug design by targeting
tryparedoxin peroxidase (2-Cysperoxiredoxin type) from Leishmania donovani (LdTXNPx) using
clioquinol, nelfinavir, and strychnobiflavone as mother compound. Clioquinol, nelfinavir are known
for their anti-leishmanial activity and strychnobiflavone showed antileishmanial activity against
Leishmania amazonensis and Leishmania infantum amastigotes and promastigotes recently.

Background:

Visceral leishmaniasis, the most lethal form of Leishmaniasis, is caused by
Leishmania donovani in the Indian subcontinent and East Africa. Current therapeutics for the disease
is associated with a risk of high toxicity and development of drug-resistant strains. Thus, the
discovery of potential targets, successful inhibitors, and improved drug distribution mechanisms for
leishmaniasis diagnosis has become a focus.

Methods:

On this basis, we constructed protein structure using homology modeling, molecular
docking of protein with potential drug candidates, interaction analysis and pharmacophore analysis
conducted in this study.

Results:

We have revealed two compounds i.e. Nelfinavir mesylate and strychnobiflavone, which
have desired characteristics in the future drugs for Visceral leishmaniasis.

Conclusion:

Consistently in the future, we will ratify the efficacy of these compounds, essential
animal and clinical trials are needed to be performed. We believe that our present study will help to
find efficient and effective therapy for treating Visceral leishmaniasis in humans.
Research Progress on Secondary Metabolites from the Ascidians of Aplidium Genus
Authors: Han Qing-Hua , Tian Xiao-Qing , Zhao Shu-Ming , Lu Ya-Nan , Fan Cheng-Qi
Published: July 2020

Ascidians (tunicates) are widely recognized as one of the most prolific producers of bioactive
natural products in the marine environment. This present study reviewed the chemical diversity
of marine ascidians from the Aplidium genus and their pharmacological applications since Jan 2005.
The resources of this genus from China Seas, including the changes of their names in the family Polydinidae
were also summarized in this paper. In addition, a concise outlook on their chemical and
pharmaceutical investigation is made to support further development.
Voltammetric Determination of Diazepam on Antimony Film Screen- Printed Electrode in Pharmaceutical Formulations
Authors: Antunović Vesna , Baošić Rada , Lolić Aleksandar
Published: July 2020

Background:

Diazepam belongs to the group of 1,4-benzodiapines. It is used for the treatment of anxiety, convulsions and as muscle relaxants. The presence of a 4,5-azomethine group enables its electrochemical detection.

Introduction:

A screen-printed electrode modified with antimony film was used for the determination of diazepam in pharmaceutical preparations

Methods:

Electrode modification was done by ex-situ deposition of antimony on a commercially available screen-printed electrode. Parameters affecting the electroanalytical response of the sensor, such as deposition potential, deposition time, and antimony concentration, were examined and optimized. The modified electrode showed enhanced electroactivity for diazepam reduction compared to the unmodified electrode. Under optimal conditions, linear sweep voltammetry was used for the determination of the analyte.

Results:

The sensor showed linear dependence in the range from 0.5 to 10 μmol/L, the correlation coefficient was 0.9992. The limit of detection was 0.33 μmol/L, corresponding limit of quantification was 1.08 μmol/L. Modification enabled determination of diazepam in the presence of oxygen.

Conclusion:

The modified electrode was used for the determination of diazepam in tablets. Results confirmed the applicability of the electrochemical sensor.
Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: From Mechanism to Management in a Nutshell
Authors: Khan Shahzad , Ahmad Syed S. , Kamal Mohammad A.
Published: July 2020

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a significant complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by gradually failing heart with detrimental cardiac remodelings, such as fibrosis and diastolic and systolic dysfunction, which is not directly attributable to coronary artery disease. Insulin resistance and resulting hyperglycemia is the main trigger involved in the initiation of diabetic cardiomyopathy. There is a constellation of many pathophysiological events, such as lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, inappropriate activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, dysfunctional immune modulation promoting increased rate of cardiac cell injury, apoptosis, and necrosis, which ultimately culminates into interstitial fibrosis, cardiac stiffness, diastolic dysfunction, initially, and later systolic dysfunction too. These events finally lead to clinical heart failure of DCM. Herein, The pathophysiology of DCM is briefly discussed. Furthermore, potential therapeutic strategies currently used for DCM are also briefly mentioned.
Recent Designs on Resin Containers of Photocuring 3D Printer
Authors: Xie Baocheng , Ji Xuhui
Published: July 2020

Background:

Photocuring 3D printing is a highly efficient additive manufacturing technology
for machining complex object geometries. Resin container, a core component of photocuring 3D
printer, plays a significant role in solving the problems about resin supply, temperature control, peeling
method and membrane pressure during the curing process. Thus, the resin container has been paid great
attention to optimize the curing process.

Objective:

To offer some new designs of resin container which contribute to solve problems about resin
supply, temperature control, peeling method and membrane pressure. Provide the reader with a new
idea that the function of resin containers cannot be ignored during 3d printing. Moreover, stimulate the
reader's thoughts about how can designs of resin containers be further improved.

Methods:

This paper sketches out the strengths and weaknesses of these designs of resin containers
with a more critical eye. And show their similarities and differences in a more concise form.

Results:

The strengths and weaknesses of these designs of resin containers in photocuring 3D printing
are summarized. There is no doubt that a suitable resin container contributes to solve the problems
about resin supply, temperature control, peeling method and membrane pressure. It helps to stimulate
the reader's thoughts on the selection of resin containers for printing optimization.

Conclusion:

Researchers should pay more attention to the new designs of resin containers which are
easy to be ignored but have great significance. Some new resin containers will be invented to solve
problems about resin supply, temperature control, peeling method and membrane pressure during the
curing process.
Research Development of End Traction Shoulder Rehabilitation Device
Authors: Jiang Jingang , Chen Houjun , Huang Dongcheng , Guo Yafeng , Tang Dedong , Wu Dianhao
Published: July 2020

Background:

With the rapid growth of the elderly population, the phenomenon of shoulder
subluxation caused by stroke is increasing. For young people, frozen shoulders caused by works and
shoulder fractures caused by accidents are also increasing. With the development and popularization of
rehabilitation medicine, more and more people realize that rehabilitation and treatment are equally important.
Therefore, more and more shoulder rehabilitation devices are designed.

Objective:

To provide an overview of the end traction shoulder rehabilitation device and introduce their
classification, characteristics and development.

Methods:

This paper reviewed various productions and patents related to the end traction shoulder rehabilitation
device. The structural characteristics, differentiations, applications of the end traction rehabilitation
device are also introduced.

Results:

By analyzing the physiological structure and movement characteristics of the shoulder, the
rehabilitation mechanism is understood. According to the usage and training track of the end traction
shoulder rehabilitation device, it is classified and compared, and the typical characteristics are concluded.
The main problems in its development are analyzed and studied. The current and future research
of the productions and patents on it are discussed.

Conclusion:

As a single joint rehabilitation device, the rehabilitation goal of the end traction shoulder
rehabilitation device is clearer. Through analysis of existing patents, it is found that the safety, the rehabilitation
effect and the rehabilitation program of device need to be further improved. In the future, in
order to better serve patients, technologies such as human-machine interaction and rehabilitation process
monitoring are also essential.
Total Carotenoids Content and Assessment of Carotene Profile by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography in Selected Vegetables of Bangladesh with Special Reference to Some Unconventional Varieties
Authors: Sams Samia , Alam Mohammad Khairul , Ahsan Monira , Islam Sheikh Nazrul
Published: July 2020

Background:

Carotenoids are natural plant pigments and precursors of vitamin A,
which provide a health benefit, protect against chronic degenerative diseases, and contribute to immune
functions. Utilization and identification of foods with a high content of carotenoids received
greater attention nowadays.

Objective:

The present study was aimed at evaluating total carotenoids content (TCC) and carotene
composition of unconventional leafy vegetables growing in Bangladesh.

Materials and Methods:

The samples were collected from different locations of Bangladesh and
mixed together to ensure sample representativeness. Acetone–petroleum ether extraction followed
by spectrophotometric measurement was utilized for quantification of TCC. High-performance
liquid chromatography (HPLC- DAD) was used to separate and quantify carotene components.

Results and Discussion:

The TCC values ranged from 129.38 μg/100 g edible portion (EP) in Helencha
to 12803.31 μg/100 g EP in Roktodrone. The study findings also revealed that the selected
plant samples exhibited high content of β-carotene ranging from 120.99 μg/100 g EP in Parul to
11301.16 μg/100 g EP in Roktodrone. It was also observed that most of the vegetables analyzed
did not have α-carotene, lycopene, β-cryptoxanthin or it was in such a small quantity that could not
be detected with HPLC.

Conclusion:

It can be suggested that regular intake of these vegetables may provide pro-vitamin A.
In order to address the vitamin A deficiency and to maintain biodiversity, the analysis of
carotenoids composition of these unconventional plant foods is to be initiated and make it available
to the mass population. It would also fill up the data gap in the existing food composition table of
Bangladesh.
Onychomycosis: Current Understanding and Strategies for Enhancing Drug Delivery into Human Nail Tissue
Authors: Aslam Rabia , Hussain Talib , Yousaf Abid Mehmood , Ghori Muhammad U. , Khan Ikram U. , Rizvi Syed A.A. , Shahzad Yasser
Published: July 2020

Background:

Onychomycosis is by far the most common finger or toe nail fungal infectious
disease caused by dermatophytes, non-dermatophytic molds or yeast. It accounts for 50% of
the total nail disorders, and affects patients physically, socially, and psychologically and can seriously
influence their quality of life.

Objectives:

Oral antifungals are routinely used to treat the nail fungal disease; however oral therapy
is associated with severe side effects and longer treatment times. In recent years, drug delivery
directly into the nail or nail bed has gained attention and various topical products have been tested
that can cure the disease when applied topically or transungually. Nevertheless, drug penetration into
and through the nail is not straightforward and requires chemicals to improve its permeability or
by applying physical stress to promote drug penetration into and through the nail. This lucid review
presents an overview of various causes of onychomycosis, current therapeutic approaches,
and efforts aimed at increasing the permeability of nails through various strategies such as chemical,
physical and mechanical methods for permeation enhancement.

Conclusion:

Various strategies have been proposed for the treatment of onychomycosis, however,
much research into a more precise and effective therapy is still required.
Arte e pós-memória – Fragmentos, fantasmas, fantasias
Authors: Ribeiro Margarida Calafate
Published: July 2020

Neste artigo abordo a relação entre arte e pós-memória a partir das heranças coloniais ligadas à ditadura portuguesa, à guerra colonial em África e à descolonização expressas no trabalho de quatro mulheres artistas portuguesas: uma escritora, Isabela Figueiredo, com o Cadernos de Memórias Coloniais(2009), uma cineasta, Filipa César, e a performer Grada Kilomba, com Conakry(2013) e uma artista visual, Ana Vidigal, com Penélope(2000). Na minha leitura estes trabalhos constituem-se cartas ao pai/ pátria. O contexto histórico e o quadro teórico de análise é dado no início do artigo.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY EXPLOITATION: POSITIVE EMOTION AS MEDIATOR
Authors: Othman Nor Hafiza , Othman Norasmah , Juhdi Noor Hasni
Published: July 2020

Entrepreneurship education can facilitate students’ competency development and enhance their self-employment potential. Students’ involvement in entrepreneurship is influenced by their emotions, especially in the early stages of business start-ups. Without exploiting potential business opportunities, entrepreneurship will not occur. This study aims to determine positive emotion effects on the relationship between entrepreneurship education and business opportunity exploitation. The study’s sample comprise of 152 final year university students. A questionnaire-based survey was the main instrument employed and the hypotheses developed were tested using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling. The findings show that the students’ action to exploit opportunities is significant, and is affected by the exposure to entrepreneurial learning and anticipated effect of positive emotion on entrepreneurship. This finding confirms that anticipated positive emotions are important throughout the entrepreneurial process and form a motivating factor to engage in entrepreneurial activities. Furthermore, the result shows that positive emotions partially mediate the relationship between entrepreneurship education and opportunity exploitation. This study is important for students to experience a paradigm shift towards entrepreneurship and to encourage them to select entrepreneurship as a career option. Future studies could explore the effect of anticipated negative emotions among tertiary education students, and potential entrepreneurs.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF PANCASILA EDUCATION THROUGH FIELD WORK LEARNING MODEL
Authors: Kusdarini Eny , Sunarso Sunarso , Arpannudin Iqbal
Published: July 2020

Pancasila education has been a part of general education which plays an important role in transferring and nurturing values that are in line with the nation's personality. This study aims to describe the implementation of Pancasila Education through field work learning model by looking at the practice of Pancasila values in the real community life in Pancasila Village, Bantul Regency. This research is a descriptive qualitative study through a case study in Pancasila Village. The subjects of the study were the first semester students of Communication Science department at one of the state universities in Yogyakarta who are taking the Pancasila Education course. Purposive sampling technique was used in this study. The data in this study were collected through interview, observation, and documentation, while the data analysis was done through qualitative descriptive techniques. The findings showed that the students gained a great deal of meaningful experiences from the field work learning model through direct observation of the Pancasila values implementation in the community. Another important finding is that the students can identify the implementation of the values of the Pancasila, either the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth precepts in Pancasila Village.
EMPHATY AND TOLERANCE IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION: COOPERATIVE VS. CLASSICAL LEARNING
Authors: Winarni Sri , Rutan Rusli
Published: July 2020

There is a common belief that physical education is potential to introduce moral values, such as emphaty and tolerance. However, belief itself is still debatable and needs more empirical evidence. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of two learning methods commonly used in physical education, these are cooperative and classical learning, whether it could be used for learning the moral values. There were 128 eight graders (52 boys and 76 girls) involved in the experiment. These students were categorised as above average in academic, diversed in religion and social economy background, but they are mostly Javanese. The emphaty was measured using Baron-Cohen scale, while the tolerance was measured using the instrument developed by UNESCO. Using a 2x2 factorial design varying learning model (cooperative vs. classical) and academic achievement (international class vs. regular class). The results showed that cooperative learning was significantly more effective than classical learning. It was found that the emphaty and tolerant scores of the leading class was significantly higher than those in the reguler class. It might be said that those with high cognitive ability may also develop moral values. Nevertheless, no interaction effect was found. This results are discussed using the perspective of socio-constructivism.
Efficacy of Auditory Training Using Video Clips for Older Adults Who Wear Hearing Aids
Authors: Lee Minjun , Bahng Junghwa
Published: July 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of training using the developed videos in terms of speech perception in noise and cognitive ability.Methods: For the training materials, we had 16 video clips edited from new, TV shows, and movies. To evaluate the auditory training effect when using the video clips, a total of 17 subjects participated in this study; all of the subjects had worn hearing aids for 1 to 3 months. Among the 17 subjects, ten of them completed eight sessions, 40 minutes per session, of the auditory training, while the other seven subjects did not have any training chance. Sentence recognition in noise tests, cognition tests such as digit span (auditory-only and auditory-visual conditions) attention tests, and subjective satisfaction of hearing aids were evaluated at both pre- and post-auditory training.Results: There were significantly improved sentence recognition in noise, attention, and subjective hearing aid satisfaction in the auditory training group. However, there was no significant improvement in the digit span after the auditory training. In the non-training group, none of the tests’ scores were significantly changed, other than subjective hearing aid satisfaction.Conclusion: These results suggested that auditory training with video clip is an effective method to improve speech understanding in noise and subjective satisfaction as well as cognitive ability, attention. However, we did not observe working memory improvement after the training. For future study, we need to examine an effective method for improving cognitive ability, especially working memory.
Effects of Cognitive Function and Naming Ability on the Quality of Communication Life in the Korean Elderly
Authors: Park Ji Young , Choi Seong Hee , Lee Kyoung jae , Choi Chul-Hee
Published: July 2020

Purpose: As old people age, their cognitive skills as well as naming ability decrease. In particular, dementia, along with memory, is a decline in other intellectual abilities that can interfere with everyday life. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the naming ability, cognitive function, and quality of communication life in the Korean elderly and thier relationship.Methods: A total of 50 Korean elderly people (25 normal, 25 elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) from Korean version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (K-MoCA) ranged in age from 65 to 85 years old participated. The naming ability and quality of communication life were measured using short form of the Korean-Boston naming test (S-K-BNT) and the quality of communication life scale (QCL).Results: Significantly lower naming ability and poor QCL scores were observed in the elderly group with MCI. In addition, significantly strong correlation was revealed between K-MoCA score and QCL (r = 0.728). All cognitive function including executive function, visuospatial ability, memory, attention, language, and orientation demonstrated significant relationship with QCL. Among the cognitive function, in particular, visuospatial ability showed the highest correlation with QCL (r = 0.626). Moreover, significantly moderate positive correlation (r = 0.620) was revealed between naming score and QCL.Conclusion: In current study, cognitive function as well as naming ability can be important diagnostic indice for predicting and determining good quality of communication life in elderly people.
The Development of Subjective Checklist Measuring Change in Global Cognition
Authors: Jeong Eunkyung , Kim JungWan
Published: July 2020

Purpose: There is enough evidence to support an informant based survey in screening efforts for the identification of cases of cognitive changes in community dwelling elderly. Therefore, this study focused on items affecting daily living activities more among the cognitive abilities in the elderly.Methods: The main focus of the current study was to assess the feasibility, reliability, and validity of a subjective checklist measuring change in global cognition (SCC-GC) for differentiation of subjects with memory impairment from community dwelling elderly. A total of 61 elderly individuals were administered a newly developed SCC-GC in order to determine its utility in measuring cognitive changes in the elderly.Results: SCC-GC consists of 1-3 questions in each of six sub-domains: subjective competence of cognition and language (1 item), reading and writing (2 items), usage and learning of internet (3 items), familiar daily activity (3 items), drinking alcohol (1 item), TV comprehension (1 item). Factor analysis indicated the total score of SCC-GC correlated with depression, memory and mental status. Also, we found that the difference in the total score of the SCC-GC has a significant difference between the groups.Conclusion: Through this study, it is expected that the cognitive changes can be easily checked by using their own daily life patterns and used periodically to help prevent cognitive impairment and dementia.