bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Assessment of the Quality of Minimally Processed Pineapples Sold in Wet Markets and Supermarkets of Mauritius
Authors: NEETOO HUDAA , RAMASAWMY BRINDA , RUGGOO ARVIND , HARDOWAR SHANE , RUNGASAMY ISSEN , JAUMDALLY WASSEEM , REEGA KESHNEE
Published: April 2019

Pineapple is one of the most economically important fruit crops of Mauritius and is often sold after being minimally processed (MP). Unfortunately, minimally processed whole (MPW) and fresh-cut (MPC) pineapples are susceptible to microbial contamination that can compromise the quality of the products. It is therefore important that MP pineapples have optimal freshness, nutritional quality, and are free from microbial contamination which would otherwise constitute a public health hazard to the consumers.The main aim of this study was to assess the microbiological, nutritional, and physicochemical quality of MP pineapples sourced from wet markets and supermarkets. Samples of MPW and MPC pineapples collected from open markets and supermarkets were subjected to microbiological, pH, and vitamin C analyses. The MP pineapples were also challenged using the specific spoilage organism (SSO), Pseudomonas fluorescens and subsequently stored at either ambient or refrigeration temperature to simulate storage conditions of wet markets and supermarkets, respectively. Laboratory analyses revealed that the Total Viable Counts (TVC), pH, and vitamin C content for MPW and MPC pineapples sampled ranged from 4.8 – 5.5 Log CFU/g, 4.16 – 4.96, and 21.60 – 28.90 mg/100 g, respectively. Since the population density of TVC was less than 7 Log CFU/g, which usually marks the onset of microbiological spoilage, the products were considered to be of a satisfactory microbiological quality. Moreover, there was no statistically significant difference in the microbiological load, pH, and vitamin C content for pineapples sourced from markets and supermarkets. Taken together, this study reveals that MP pineapples sold in wet markets and supermarkets have a satisfactory microbiological, nutritional, and sensorial quality with a shelf-life of >7 hours and >5 days when stored at room (29°C) and refrigeration (4°C) temperatures, respectively.
Microbiological Quality of Ready - to - Eat Food from Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: BANIK AVIJIT , ABONY MARUF , DATTA SUVAMOY , TOWHID SYEDA TASNEEM
Published: April 2019

The objective of this research was to assess the microbiological quality of ready-to-eat food available in Dhaka city, Bangladesh, and check the risk factors associated with ingestion of ready-to-eat food from popular public places. This study was conducted in the Center of Excellence in the Department of Microbiology, Primeasia University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from August 2016 to February 2017. Forty-five samples belonging to 18 categories were collected aseptically in triplicates in pre-sterilized zip-lock bags or sterile bottles from Banani area from local street vendors. Samples were transported to and analysed in the Laboratory of Department of Microbiology, Primeasia University according to standard food analysis methods. Total viable count (TVC) and Total coliform count (TCC) were determined by using plate count agar (PCA) andMacConkey agar plates respectively. Antibiogram of the isolated strains was conducted with commercial antibiotics according to the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar medium. Identification of the coliforms together with antibiotic-resistance profile showed Escherichia coli, Enterobactersakazaki, Citrobacterfreundii and Salmonella typhimurium were present in various foods. E. coli and S.typhimurium showed increased sensitivity against Ampicillin 10 mg and Sulfamethoxazole 25 mg. The occurrence of antibiotic-resistance potential pathogens in ready-to-eat food poses a considerable health risk to consumers. Public awareness and timely assessment of food safety are needed to avoid the risks of food-borne infection and intoxication from ready-to-eat food.
Antioxidant Activity and Resistant Starch Content of C. tuberosus on Different Cooking Method and its Potential on Glucose Management in Diabetic Mice
Authors: NUGRAHENI MUTIARA , SANTOSO UMAR , WINDARWATI WINDARWATI
Published: April 2019

This research aims to know the antioxidant activity and the levels of resistant starch of C. tuberosus on different processing methods. Processing methods used were boiling and baking. Bioactive compounds being evaluated is the number of total phenolic and flavonoid. Evaluation of antioxidant activity is performed with the DPPH method. The evaluation of the levels of resistant starch was done in an enzymatic method. The results showed that levels of total phenolic and flavonoid demonstrate a tendency to decline with the processing. The existence of the processing process increased the antioxidant activity of boiled C. tuberosus and C. tuberosus flake. The processing increases the levels of resistant. The levels of resistant starch in raw C. tuberosus were10.24 ± 0.37%; boiled C. tuberosus 15.42 ± 0.96%; and C. tuberosus flake 44.09 ± 0.07%. The decrease in serum glucose in boiled C. tuberosus was 47.41% whereas C. tuberosus flake was 54.94%. The results of this study indicate that processing (boiling and baking) can increase the antioxidant activity and the levels of resistant starch.
The Role of Glass Shapes on the Release of Dissolved CO2 in Effervescent Wine
Authors: FABIEN BEAUMONT , CLARA CILINDRE , ELLIE ABDI , MARJORIE MAMAN , GUILLAUME POLIDORI
Published: April 2019

This study is based on the findings that a glass of sparkling wine that releases its dissolved CO2 too quickly will see the effervescence and aromas carried by the bubble disappear prematurely. Thus, a thorough knowledge of the processes related to the release of gaseous CO2 is fundamental for the consumer as well as the oenologist or the glassmaker. In this study, the contribution of the glass shape on the gradual release of dissolved carbon dioxide was assessed during the first ten minutes following the pouring process. Measurements carried out on 4 glasses showed that for the same quantity of wine and under identical tasting conditions, the dissolved CO2 concentration evolved differently from one glass shape to another. The results showed that in the first 10 minutes after the pouring process, INAO glass loses 34% of its initial dissolved CO2 concentration compared to 58% for the flute "effervescent". Ultimately, these results demonstrate the existence of a close link between the glass shape and the amount of dissolved CO2 which is the main parameter in the tasting of sparkling wine. The link between the amount of dissolved gas, the glass shape and the release of aromas from the wine is a huge challenge which will be the subject of future studies.
Production and Evaluation of Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus)Milk Flavoured with Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract
Authors: OYETORO ABIODUN OMOWONUOLA ADEBAYO - , OGUNDIPE OLADEINDE OLATUNDE , ADEYEYE SAMUEL AYOFEMI OLALEKAN , AKANDE EMMANUEL ADEDAPO , AKINYELE ABIOLA BUSOLA
Published: April 2019

Recently, research focus is on phyto-plants with their health benefits. This study, therefore, was carried out to produce and evaluate the quality and acceptability of tiger nut milk flavoured with Moringa oleifera leaf extract. Milk was prepared from tiger nut and blended with Moringa extract in ratios 95:5, 90:10 and 85:15 respectively while 100% tiger nut milk was used as a control. Samples were coded as NOD, MDA, JNJ and ABD respectively. Proximate composition, emulsification, total titratable acidity (TTA), pH and sensory analysis were carried out on the samples. Results showed that sample JNJ had the highest percentages of carbohydrate and protein of 4.33+0.02% and 2.34+0.02% respectively, ABD had the highest percentages of lipid, ash and emulsifying property of 2.54+0.02%, 0.028+0.01% and 444+4.24mg/100g respectively. The pH of all samples varies between 7.13 and 7.24. Sensory evaluation showed that sample NOD was the most acceptable. Most of the parameters measured are significantly different (p˂0.05). This study concluded that sample NOD could be produced for consumption and will be acceptable by the consumers. The higher the amount of Moringa oleifera leaf extract added to the imitation milk the better the health benefit it offers. This is because sample JNJ (85:15 tiger nut-moring) has the highest amount of protein and minerals when assessed)
Microbial and Sensorial Quality of Ice Cream Fortified with Oyster (Crassostrea iredalei) Puree
Authors: SORIO JERSON C. , ALBINA MARIETTA B.
Published: April 2019

Oyster (Crassostreairedalei) are edible bivalve mollusk that contains nutrients that could enhance the nutritional value of dairy products such as ice cream. This study was conducted to determine the microbial and sensorial quality of ice cream fortified with oyster puree at 0% 5%, 10% and 15% concentration during 4 weeks’ frozen storage period. Based on the sensory evaluation results, treatment 2 (10%) obtained the highest overall acceptance mean score of 8.50 (like extremely), but showed no significant difference (p>0.05) with other treatments. The addition of oyster puree did not affect the sensory attributes and the overall acceptability of the products. All treatments were still acceptable on week 4 in terms of sensory attributes. For the basis of microbial analysis, all treatments revealed to have an acceptable microbial count that is below the standard limit of 100,000 CFU/ml (5 log CFU/ml) from week 0 to week 4. Development of ice cream fortified with oyster puree is feasible to increase its nutritional value.
Hip dysplasia: understanding the options (surgical management)
Authors: Witte Philip Georg
Published: April 2019

The majority of vets in practice will be familiar with options for conservative management of canine hip dysplasia. However, there may be less familiarity with the various surgical options. Knowledge of the reported surgical techniques; selection criteria for these options; and their outcomes and potential complications provide the basis for an evidence-based approach to management of the individual case. In this article a brief comparison with developmental dysplasia of the hips in human infants is given by way of an introduction to surgical options, since there is some overlap with options for hip dysplasia in dogs. A description of the surgical interventions that have been reported for canine hip dysplasia is presented, and, where possible, the evidence regarding outcomes is summarised. It is hoped this article will help the general practitioner giving advice regarding surgical management of canine hip dysplasia.
Pericardial disease in the dog and cat
Authors: Bode Elizabeth
Published: April 2019

The pericardium is a double-walled sac that surrounds the heart and the roots of the great vessels. Although survival is possible without a pericardium, it does serve several functions: balancing right and left ventricular cardiac output; acting as a barrier for infection; and fixing the position of the heart within the thorax. Pericardial diseases can have profound effects on the cardiovascular system and can lead to circulatory collapse, therefore they need to be identified promptly. This article briefly reviews normal pericardial anatomy and physiology, and addresses congenital and acquired pericardial disease processes together with their diagnosis and management.
Defining ‘cultural capital’ in terms of best practice
Authors: Cowley Sue
Published: April 2019

‘Cultural capital’ is now being quoted by Ofsted – but what does it mean in relation to early childhood education? In order to have validity it must start with celebrating the unique child.
When silence is golden
Authors: Brown Paula
Published: April 2019

In part two of her series exploring how communication skills link to wellbeing, Paula Brown challenges stereotypical notions to do with the extrovert and weighs the cognitive and emotional benefits of silence.
Building positive futures through intergenerational contact
Authors: Burke Stephen , Burke Denise
Published: April 2019

Bringing old and young together for meaningful interactions is now proving to have many benefits – not just for children and the elderly, but for society as a whole. Stephen and Denise Burke explain how they are working to maximise these benefits.
In praise of childcare on campus
Authors: Barker Julie
Published: April 2019

Julie Barker takes a look at the growing trend for universities to open nurseries on their sites to support students, staff and children, and how this can lead to growth opportunities for providers.
High Encapsulation Efficiency of Magnetite Nanoparticles in Hydrophobic Polymer Microcapsules using Microsuspension Conventional Radical Polymerization
Authors: Sadchaiyaphum Jittaya , Phapugrangkul Pongsathon , Chaiyasat Preeyporn , Chaiyasat Amorn
Published: April 2019

High encapsulation efficiency of magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs; Fe3O4) in microcapsules using PDVB as a hydrophobic polymer shell was successfully achieved by microsuspension conventional radical polymerization (ms CRP). MNPs were initially synthesized by co-precipitation of Fe2+/Fe3+ in a binary phase. During the nucleation of MNPs in alkaline aqueous solution existing oleic acid (OA), MNPs were coated with OA (MNPs-OA) before moving to the toluene phase with the addition of salt. At OA concentration of 0.3 wt%, most of the nucleated MNPs were hydrophobic and well dispersed in the toluene phase. Using DVB as a monomer for ms CRP, high encapsulation efficiency (92 %EE) of MNPs-OA was obtained, with low free polymer particle formation. By contrast, large amounts of free polymer particles were observed at low %EE (32%) of MNPs. The main driving force for high %EE was obtained by coating the surface of the MNPs by OA which increased hydrophobicity.
Caffeine Adsorption by Fique Bagasse Biochar Produced at Various Pyrolysis Temperatures
Authors: Correa-Navarro Yaned Milena , Moreno-Piraján Juan Carlos , Giraldo Liliana , Rodríguez-Estupiñan Paola
Published: April 2019

Biochar obtained from agricultural residues is ever more recognized as a multifunctional porous solid for multiples applications. In this study, fique bagasse biochars were produced at different temperatures and their corresponding deashing. These materials were investigated about physicochemical properties and adsorption capability of caffeine. The pH solution was an influential parameter, and it was determined that a pH =2.0 for washed biochar and pH= 6.0 for not washed biochar were the best conditions for adsorption. Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich-Peterson isotherms models provided a good fit for the experimental data, indicating a surface and multi-layer adsorption. From the adsorption capacity at equilibrium of fique bagasse biochars it was concluded that pH-dependent interactions, hydrogen bonding and π- π stacking interaction were found to be responsible for caffeine adsorption. The results allow to visualize the biochar obtained from fique bagasse as a sustainable alternative for the waste derived from the production of the cabuya.
Removal of Toxicants from Leather Industrial Wastewater Using Sawdust Filter Media and Ferric Oxide Coagulant
Authors: Chowdhury Manjushree , Hossain Israil , Kanti Deb Amal , Kumar Biswas Tapan
Published: April 2019

The leather industrial wastewaters are a major source of water pollution among all industrial sector considering both quantity and composition. This research study was focused on the current chemical and physical parameters of tannery wastewater and treatment processes through sawdust filter media and ferric oxide (Fe2O3) coagulant. The study found that tannery wastewater contained exceptionally high values of TDS, TSS, TS, BOD, COD, SO42-, Cl-, Na, Ca, chromium, lead, cadmium and arsenic and theses parameters of the composite were exceeded the standard discharge limits which are considered as toxicants for the environment. The wastewaters were filtered by saw-dust filtration processes and then treated with different dosage of Fe2O3. The experiment elucidated that the filtration technique could minimize certain amount of toxicant load from the wastewater but not efficient enough to practise the technique alone using as wastewater treatment. The chemical interaction with 100 mg/L coagulant (Fe2O3) dosage at pH~9 showed the best result of the major parameters. The study suggested that both combined physical (filtration) and chemical (Fe2O3, coagulants) treatment processes could be fruitful to reduce the toxicants load from tannery wastewater.
Characterization of Palladium Chelates and Their Interactions with Z-N'-(Benzo(d)Thiazol-2-yl)-N,N-Dimethylformimidamide using the Spectrophotometric and Computational Methods
Authors: Saber Amr Lotfy , Zordok Wael Abd-Allah , Alharbi Ahmed , Subaihi Abdu
Published: April 2019

A rapid, selective and sensitive method for the quantification of Pd (II) using spectrophotometric technique associated with Z-N'-(benzo(d) thiazol-2-yl)-N,N-dimethylformimidamide BTDF as new chelating agent is described. Yellow colored complex of Pd (II) with BTDF is formed in Britton-Robinson universal buffer of pH 9 and extracted with chloroform. The formed complex clearly illustrate an absorption at ∼384 nm and follw Beer’s law in the range of concentration between 0.5–18.0 µg ml−1 of Pd (II) with absorbance of 3.62 × 104 L mol-1 cm-1 and limit of detection(LOD) of Pd (II) 0.07 µg ml−1. The effects of different experimental parameters have been established by study the optimum conditions for the extraction and quantification of palladium ion. Density functional theory (DFT) havealso been employed to computethe influence of the cation on theoretical parameters of Pd2+ complexes. The effect of donating centers was investigated theoretically which prove that Pd2+ favor coordinated with two molecules of Z-N'-(benzo(d)thiazol-2-yl)-N,N-dimethylformimidamide through two nitrogen atoms.The performance of the examined method was estimated to detect the impact of current method over the presented methods in the literature without interference effect of cations and anions. The examined method has successfully demonstrated the quantification of Pd(II) in natural and spiked water samples.
Effect of Drought Condition of North Region of Saudi Arabia on Accumulation of Chemical Compounds, Antimicrobial and Larvicidal Activities of Thuja Orientalis
Authors: Elsharkawy Eman R. , Ali Ahmed M. H.
Published: April 2019

Drought stress and drastic condition of northern region especial high temperature in summer season affect widely on the chemical component of plant and its biological actively plant grow in these condition adapt to this stress by accumulation different compound, thugia it is tree grow in garden and farms, when it grows in desert habitat show different content, Gc-Ms analysis of the terpenoid fraction of the plant where it is best fraction given high antimicrobial and Larvicidal activity was done and show the presence of many promising diterpene compounds, Ferruginol, Torulosol, dihydro, 18-Oxo-kauran-17-yl acetate and Andrographolide. The antibacterial testing showed that, the tested gram-positive bacteria exhibited good susceptibility to the terpenoid fraction of methanol extract, which was Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus, recorded 13.0±0.7 and 11.0±0.0 mm inhibition zones, respectively. Indicating promising antibacterial activity against the gram-positive pathogens. While all the tested gram-negative bacteria recorded weak or no susceptibility. The larvicidal activity of plant was studied on Spodoptera littoralis , The lethal concentration was 27.63 % of terpenoid fraction of Thuja orientalis. The plant can considered as a good herbal insecticide instead of synthetic insect side after further studies where the IC50: Botanical pesticides are highly effective, and ecologically acceptable.
A Rapid Spectrophotometric Method for Quantitative Determination of Ethanol in Fermentation Products
Authors: Sriariyanun Malinee , Mutrakulcharoen Parita , Tepaamorndech Surapun , Cheenkachorn Kraipat , Rattanaporn Kittipong
Published: April 2019

A rapid and accurate assay for monitoring ethanol production is required to control the progress of fermentation in various industrial-related research and processes. In this study, a spectrophotometric assay to measure ethanol concentration in fermentative sample was developed. Ethanol in unknown aqueous solution was extracted using tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) and subsequently oxidized by dichromate reagent. Oxidation product of ethanol with dichromate reagent could be visualized as blue green-color. The A595 value detected by spectrophotometer and ethanol concentration between 0.7%-8.0% was plotted in linear regression with high correlation coefficiency (R2). In addition, concentration of methanol, propanol and butanol were determined as did in ethanol suggesting the broad application of this assay. Our established method was applied to commercial wine and fermentative products from yeast culture broths and the results were compared with Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrophotometry (GCMS) method. In this study, this assay was demonstrated as a cheap, rapid, and high accuracy method for determination of ethanol concentration in unknown solutions.
Synthesis of Self-colored Thermal Stabilized Acrylonitrile/Itaconic Copolymers
Authors: Al-GHAMDI AZZA ABDULLAH
Published: April 2019

Acrylonitrile (AN) was copolymerized with itaconic acid metal complexes [Co(II),Ni(II),Cu(II)] aiming to synthetize self-colored acrylonitrile fiber. The copolymerization occurred in water at 60°C using sodium bisulfite and potassium persulfate as redox initiators. The resulting copolymers are colored and exhibited high thermal stability as shown from their TGA curves. The investigated copolymers exhibited comparable thermal stability as that of PAN. The AN/ itaconic acid Co(NO3)2copolymer was considerably the most thermal stable copolymer while that of Ni(II) copolymer was the less stable one. Cu(II) copolymer showed an intermediate stability. The data also revealed that the maximum degradation occurred after 300°C (the cyclization temperature). Thus, neither the copolymerization nor the complexation affected the nitrile oligomerization reaction. The effect of adding ammonium hydroxide solution to acrylonitrile – itaconic acid copper(II) complex copolymer on the thermal stability of copolymer was also studied.
Simultaneous Detection of Pb(II) and Cd(II) Ions in Noodle Soup Samples using Square Wave Anodic Stripping Voltammetry
Authors: Nuengmatcha Prawit , Ninwong Benjawan , Chanthai Saksit
Published: April 2019

Noodles are a favorite food in many cultures. There are many cases that noodle soups were contaminated with heavy metal like Pb(II) and Cd(II) which released from their container or boiling pot. In this work, the highly selective method has been established for simultaneous detection of Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions using bismuth film electrode by applying square wave anodic stripping voltammetry or SWASV technique. Bi(III) ion was used to enhance analytical signal by in situ plating solutions on glassy carbon support. The electrochemical analysis is based on simultaneous preconcentration /reduction of both ions at -1.1 V (versus Ag/AgCl) in 0.5 molL-1 HCl during 240 s, followed by subsequent chemical stripping of square-wave detection. The linear calibration curve was exhibited in the ranged of 0.02-1.0 mgL-1. The value of limits of detection (LOD) for Pb(II) and Cd(II) were attained at 0.007 mgL-1 and 0.004 mgL-1. The developed method was successfully used to simultaneous determine Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions in noodle soup samples from noodle shops in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand. The recoveries were in the range 83-109%. The present method provides highly selective detection for determination of both Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions.
Adsorptive Behavior of Medicinal Product Based Activated Carbon for Pharmaceutical Active Compounds in Aqueous Solution. Redlich-Peterson Studies
Authors: Sherko Omer Nsar , Jamal Salih Shameran , Sadiq Hawezy Hawar Jalal
Published: April 2019

Medicinal product based activated carbon was applied for the sorption of pharmaceutical active compounds in batch and aquatic systems. The MP-AC was characterized utilized X-Ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The sorption process was found to be strongly dependent on the pH of solution which shows maximum sorption efficiency and sorption capacity at lower pH (pH=4) of 89.53% and qe = 29.35 mg.g-1, respectively. Moreover, the pHpzc also determined using drift method to evaluate the surface charge of the sorbent (pHpzc= 6.68). The sorption mechanism suitably described using a Redlich–Peterson isotherm model and confirmed by the value of chi-square test(X2 = 0.01905). The results revealed that the sorption process is spontaneous and more effective at low temperatures.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Some 1-arylideneamino-4-(4-chlorobenzylidene)-2-methyl- 1H-imidazolin-5(4H)-one Compounds
Authors: Tien Nguyen Cong , Hong Dinh Dao Thi , Van Nguyen Thin , Duc Le Giang , Cao Nguyen Hien
Published: April 2019

4-Chlorobenzylidene-2-methyl-(4H)-oxazol-5-one, which were prepared from 4-chlorobenzaldehyde and acetylglycine in reaction with hydrazine hydrate in ethanol gave 1-amino-4-(4-chlorobenzylidene)-2-methyl-1H-imidazolin-5(4H)-one. However, treatment of 4-chlorobenzylidene-2-methyl-(4H)-oxazol-5-one with hydrazine hydrate in pyridine yielded 3-(4-chlorophenyl)propanohydrazide. Reaction of 1-amino-4-(4-chlorobenzylidene)-2-methyl-1H-imidazolin-5(4H)-one with aromatic aldehydes gave eight corresponding Schiff’s bases namely 1-arylideneamino-4-(4-chlorobenzylidene)-2-methyl-1H-imidazolin-5(4H)-ones. The structure of the 3-(4-chlorophenyl)propanohydrazide and the imidazoline-5-one compounds was confirmed by IR, 1H-NMR and MS spectral data. The Schiff’s bases were tested for antimicrobial activities against several strains of Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria, molds and yeasts.
Design, Synthesis, Docking Study and Antiplatelet Evaluation of New Thiosemicarbazide Derivatives Derived from Captopril
Authors: Najeh Al-Saad Hiba , Razzak Mahmood Ammar Abdul , I. Al-Bayati Redha
Published: April 2019

A series of thiosemicarbazide derivatives of captopril, a well-known angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor ACEI, have been synthesized by reaction of hydrazide of captopril with different phenylisothiocyanate substituents. The synthesized compounds were characterized using FTIR, 1HNMR and CHNS analysis. The final derivatives were tested for antiplatelet activity using multiplate analyzer and adenosine diphosphate (ADP), arachidonic acid (AA), and collagen, as platelet aggregation inducers. Among tested compounds, derivative 7 and 10 were the most potent inhibitors of platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid, with percent inhibition (97.14±0 and 95.71±2.02) and IC50 (2.7 and 1.21μgml), respectively. Molecular docking study was performed using purino receptor P2Y12, COX-1, and glycoprotein llbllla as the target protein, compound 7 has a potential to become as a lead molecule for COX-1 inhibitor with binding energy (-10.67) Kcal/mol. Also, compound 6 was found as the best inhibitor for the glycoprotein IIa/IIIb with percent inhibition (83.9±2.8), and binding energy (-10.05) Kcal/mol.
Characteristic Studies on Novel Biodegradable Polyurethane Thin Films from Soyabean oil
Authors: Ginju M. L , David S. Begila
Published: April 2019

Polyurethane thin film was synthesised from soyabean oil, ethylene glycol, 30% hydrogen peroxide and isophorone diisocyanate by stepwise polymerisation technique. The biodegradability of the polyurethane film was studied by soil burial test .The chemical resistance of the polyurethane was analysed with different solvents. The polyurethane thin film was characterised with respect to their mechanical properties such as hardness, tensile strength, percentage elongation and young’s modulus. These studies revealed that the rigid polyurethane possess good tensile strength and biodegradability. The exothermic and endothermic nature of the polymer showed that the polyurethane was thermally stable. The physical properties such as acid value, saponification value, epoxy value, viscosity and hydroxyl values calculated. The FTIR and NMR spectral studies carried out to identify the nature of the polymer formed. Sem analysis confirmed that the polymer was biodegradable in nature. The shore hardness of the thin film was measured with the help of durometer. The tensile strength increases with increase in concentration. The young’s modulus of the thin film was calculated from the tensile strength analysis. The elasticity of the thin film was also measured by using tensile strength measurement. The swelling parameters were studied with polar and organic solvents. The thermal degradation at different time intervals were analysed by TG-DTA analysis.
Early repair of trauma-related full-thickness rotator cuff tears does not eliminate the problem of healing failure
Authors: Aagaard K. E. , Lunsjö K. , Frobell R.
Published: April 2019

Aims

Failure of healing is a well-known problem after repair of the rotator cuff. This study aimed to investigate if early repair of trauma-related full-thickness rotator cuff tears (FTRCTs) could prevent this failure.

Patients and Methods

In this prospective trial, 62 consecutive patients (14 women (23%), 48 men (77%); median age 61 years (interquartile range (IQR) 54 to 65)) with trauma-related FTRCT underwent arthroscopic single-row repair within six weeks of trauma. Tendon integrity was assessed one year after surgery using the Sugaya score on MR images. Patients were followed up with Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) index, EuroQol visual analogue scale (EQ VAS), and the Constant–Murley score (CS) two years after repair.

Results

A total of 57 patients (92%) had MR images available at one year; 59 patients (95%) had CS (one year), WORC (two years), and EQ VAS scores (two years). Intact repair was found on MRI in 36 patients (63%); 13 patients (23%) displayed healing failure of at least one repaired tendon and eight patients (14%) displayed total healing failure. Median WORC index and relative CS improved from 30.8 points (IQR 20.1 to 38.6) at baseline to 85.0 points (IQR 60.6 to 95.7) at two years and 26.5 points (IQR 21.2 to 37.4) to 83.2 points (IQR 71.9 to 97.5) at one year, respectively. The relative CS at one year was significantly better among those with intact repairs compared with those with healing failure (91.6 vs 78.1 points; p = 0.031).

Conclusion

Although early repair of trauma-related FTRCT improved patient relevant outcomes over two years for the entire cohort, only two out of three repaired rotator cuffs displayed intact structural integrity on MRI after one year. Consequently, early repair did not seem to prevent healing failure after trauma-related FTRCT. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:603–609.
TRATAMENTO DE SEMENTES DE MILHO COM ZINCO SEMEADAS EM DIFERENTES PROFUNDIDADES
Authors: Santos Adão Felipe dos , Oliveira Mailson Freire de , Junqueira Paulina Diniz , Correa Lígia Negri , Silva Rouverson Pereira da
Published: April 2019

A profundidade de semeadura e a nutrição das plântulas com micronutrientes na fase de desenvolvimento inicial são imprescindíveis para se atingir o estande recomendado para cultura do milho. Nesse sentido, objetivou-se verificar se o tratamento de sementes com zinco afeta os parâmetros fitotécnicos e fisiológicos no estádio de desenvolvimento inicial da cultura do milho até os 21 dias após a emergência, bem como verificar a relação do tratamento de semente com a profundidade de semeadura. O experimento foi realizado em blocos casualizados com quatro repetições, em esquema fatorial 3x4, sendo duas fontes de zinco (sulfato e óxido de zinco) no tratamento de semente e uma testemunha (sem zinco), combinadas com quatro profundidades de semeadura (2, 4, 6 e 8 cm). Avaliou-se a média do número de dias para a emergência, a porcentagem de germinação, o diâmetro de colmo, a área foliar e o teor de zinco na parte aérea, bem como a eficiência de uso do zinco aos 21 dias. Independentemente da fonte de zinco e das profundidades de semeadura, não foram observadas diferenças em nenhuma das variáveis analisadas. O tratamento de sementes com zinco não afetou os parâmetros germinativos e fisiológicos do milho até os 21 dias após a emergência.
PERFIL FÍSICO-QUÍMICO E SENSORIAL DE IOGURTES GREGO NATURAIS ELABORADOS COM DIFERENTES CONCENTRAÇÕES DE SACAROSE
Authors: Bezerra Karem Cristina Alves , Oliveira Emanuel Neto Alves de , Feitosa Bruno Fonsêca , Feitosa Regilane Marques , Matias Joyce Kelly da Silva
Published: April 2019

O iogurte grego é um potencial produto que ainda carece de uma legislação brasileira própria, mas que pode atender à demanda específica de consumidores na indústria alimentícia. Objetivou-se elaborar iogurtes tipo grego natural com diferentes concentrações de sacarose e estudar sua composição físico-química e aceitação sensorial. Foram desenvolvidas três diferentes formulações de iogurtes grego, com diferentes concentrações de sacarose (6, 9 e 12%), os quais foram submetidos a análises físico-químicas (extrato seco, cinzas, proteínas, lipídeos, carboidratos, calorias, pH e acidez) e sensoriais, sendo ainda traçado o Índice de Aceitabilidade e avaliada a intenção de compra. A adição de sacarose foi significativa, aumentando os valores de extrato seco, carboidratos e pH, bem como contribuiu para a redução dos valores de proteínas, lipídeos e acidez. Os produtos alcançaram Índice de Aceitabilidade acima de 80% na maioria dos atributos, destacando-se o iogurte com 9% de sacarose, com intenção de compra próximo a “certamente compraria o produto”. Portanto, os iogurtes grego naturais são produtos nutritivos, devido à associação do processo de dessoragem e o aumento das concentrações de sacarose. Esta pesquisa pode servir como fonte de dados para a fundamentação de uma legislação específica para os iogurtes do tipo grego.
DESENVOLVIMENTO E PRODUTIVIDADE DO MILHO EM SISTEMA PLANTIO DIRETO NO CARIRI CEARENSE
Authors: Rolim José Igor Martins , Nicolau Francisca Edcarla de Araújo , Mota Antonio Marcos Duarte , Pinto Antonio Alves , Camara Felipe Thomaz da
Published: April 2019

O milho, em razão de seu potencial produtivo, composição química e valor nutritivo, constitui-se um dos mais importantes cereais cultivados e consumidos no mundo. Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar o desenvolvimento e produtividade do milho em sistema plantio direto na região do Cariri, em Missão Velha-CE. O delineamento experimental foi em parcela subdividida, com quatro repetições. As parcelas foram duas culturas de cobertura (mucuna-preta e feijão-de-porco) e as subparcelas foram constituídas por três épocas de implantação da cultura do milho em relação às culturas de cobertura. Para comparar e interpretar os resultados, os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. Os resultados evidenciaram que as épocas de instalação das culturas de cobertura interferem no desenvolvimento do milho. Com a semeadura após o manejo da cultura de cobertura, foi menor o número de plantas e espigas por hectare, e maior desenvolvimento da espiga.
ADUBAÇÃO SILICATADA COMO ATENUANTE DO ESTRESSE HÍDRICO NO CRESCIMENTO E TROCAS GASOSAS DO ALFACE
Authors: De Fatima Reynaldo Teodoro , De Jesus Edmar Gonçalves , Guerrero Amaralina Celoto , Rocha Josinaldo Lopes Araújo , Brito Marcos Eric Barbosa
Published: April 2019

A insuficiencia hidrica consiste em um dos principais fatores limitantes da agricultura nas regiões semiaridas. Com isso, o emprego de tecnologias que permitam amenizar os efeitos ocasionados por esse fator se torna essencial para que ocorra a expansão da agricultura nessa região. Diante disso, objetivou-se estudar o crescimento e as trocas gasosas de plantas de alface sob adubação silicatada e estresse hídrico. O experimento foi em casa de vegetação, usando-se o delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso com quatro repetições, em esquema fatorial 5x2, com cinco doses de silício (0, 50, 100, 150 e 200 mg L-1) e duas lâminas de irrigação [50 e 100% da evapotranspiração real (ETr) baseada em lisimetria de pesagem], com quatro repetições, totalizando 40 unidades experimentais. A aplicação do Si foi feita via foliar, utilizando-se produto comercial composto por 0,75% de Si e 0,15% de Molibdênio. As doses de silício influenciaram nas variáveis fisiológicas das plantas sob estresse hídrico, destacando-se a dose estimada de 125 mg L-1. A aplicação da dose estimada de 109 mg L-1 de Si apresentou benefícios para as plantas submetidas a lâmina de 100% da ETr nas variáveis morfológicas estudadas. A lâmina de irrigação de 100% da ETr proporcionou maior crescimento das plantas de alface em relação às plantas irrigadas com a lâmina de 50% da ETr.
A Narrative Review of Pediatric Nontraumatic Spinal Cord Dysfunction
Authors: New Peter Wayne
Published: April 2019

This article provides a narrative review of seven key issues relevant to pediatric onset of spinal cord damage not due to trauma, or spinal cord dysfunction (SCDys). The first topic discussed is terminology issues. There is no internationally accepted term for spinal cord damage not due to trauma. The implications of this terminology issue and an approach to addressing this are discussed. Second, a brief history of SCDys is presented, focusing on conditions relevant to pediatrics. Third, the classification of SCDys is outlined, based on the International Spinal Cord Injury Data Sets for Non-Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury. Following this, a summary is given of the epidemiology of pediatric SCDys, primarily focused on the incidence, prevalence, and etiology, with a comparison to traumatic spinal cord injury. Next, important clinical rehabilitation principles unique to children with SCDys are highlighted. Then important prevention opportunities for SCDys in children are discussed. Finally, trends, challenges, and opportunities regarding research in SCDys are mentioned.
Training Youth With SCI to Improve Efficiency and Biomechanics of Wheelchair Propulsion: A Pilot Study
Authors: Schottler Jennifer , Graf Adam , Kelly Erin , Vogel Lawrence
Published: April 2019

Background: Long-term manual wheelchair users are at an increased risk of developing upper extremity (UE) joint pain and injuries due to the repetitive nature of wheelchair propulsion. Youth who sustain spinal cord injuries (SCIs) may be at even greater risk due to the many years they may be wheelchair dependent. There has been a decreasing trend in duration of initial rehabilitation, therefore little time is spent on training of proper wheelchair propulsion. An objective evaluation along with proper training may help prevent the risk of UE pain and injuries over time. Objective: To develop a training program to improve the efficiency and biomechanics of wheelchair propulsion in youth with SCI and evaluate changes made following propulsive training. Methods: Manual wheelchair users between 4 and 21 years old with SCI were recruited from one hospital. Demographic and clinical measures were collected and the subjects completed the Wheelchair User's Shoulder Pain Index. SmartWheel metrics were collected at baseline and following propulsive training on a roller system. Analyses assessed differences in SmartWheel metrics pre and post training. Results: The 23 participants were between 7 and 19 years of age; 57% were male and 69% with paraplegia. Significant improvements were found for SmartWheel metrics of peak backwards force that improved from −3.08 Newtons (N) ± 2.1 pre training to −2.37 N ± 1.9 (p = .041) post training and for push mechanical effectiveness that improved from .575 ± .14 at baseline to .631 ± .17 post training (p = .033). Conclusion: Our results suggest that an objective wheelchair assessment and propulsive training may be a valuable tool for youth with SCI.
Shift Scheduling of Short Time Workers in Large-Scale Home Improvement Center by using Cooperative Evolution
Authors: Ohki Makoto
Published: April 2019

There are a lot of large-scale Home Improvement Center (HIC) in Japan. In the large-scale HIC,about hundred short time workers are registered. And about forty workers are working every day. A managercreates a monthly shift schedule. The manager selects the workers required for each working day, assigns theworking time and break time for each worker and also work placement. Because there are many requirementsfor the scheduling, the scheduling consumes time costs and efforts. Therefore, we propose the technique to createand optimize the schedule of the short time workers in order to reduce the burden of the manager. A cooperativeevolution is applied for generating and optimizing the shift schedule of short time worker. Several problems hasbeen found in carrying out this research. This paper proposes techniques to automatically create and optimize theshift schedule of workers in large-scale HIC by using a Cooperative Evolution (CE), to solve the situation thatmany workers concentrate in a speci c time zone, and to solve the situation where many breaks are concentratedin a speci c break time zone, and an effective mutation operators.
Dynamic of Firework Algorithm Analyzed with Complex Network
Authors: Kadavy Tomas , Pluhacek Michal , Viktorin Adam , Senkerik Roman
Published: April 2019

In this paper, a visualization of Firework Algorithm (FWA) inner dynamics as an evolving complex network is presented. Recent research in unconventional controlling and simulation of metaheuristic dynamics shows that this kind of visualization technique has been utilized only for algorithms with some social communication or behavior leading to sharing information across the population. However, provided analysis suggests that the network can identify some types of surface of tested functions.
Using Complex Network Visualization and Analysis for Uncovering the Inner Dynamics of PSO Algorithm
Authors: Pluhacek Michal , Senkerik Roman , Viktorin Adam , Kadavy Tomas , Zelinka Ivan
Published: April 2019

In this study, we construct a complex network from the inner dynamic of Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm. The subsequent analysis of the network promises to provide useful information for better understanding the dynamic of the swarm that is not acquirable by other means. We present several network visualizations and numerical analysis. We discuss the observations and propose further directions for the research.
Optimization of Personnel Cost in Aircrew Assignment Problem using a Simple Fuzzy Logic Approach
Authors: Sumarti Novriana , Chandra Ferdyanto , Minardi Jeremy
Published: April 2019

In aviation industries, the aircrew assignment problem is one of the most important factors in total operational cost optimization. This problem will be solved in two steps: flight pairing and aircrew scheduling. The constraints to be satisfied in flight pairing include having the same airport for first departure and final destination, and the limitations of flying time, duty time and transit time. The optimization process results in optimal flight pairings that minimize the number of personnel needed to serve a flight schedule over a given period of time. Further optimization is needed to obtain a schedule in which an aircrew team can serve a rotation with the largest possible number of pairings on the condition that all constraints are fulfilled. For aircrew scheduling, there are constraints on flying time, resting time, total number of takeoffs, and number of holidays and workdays. The investigated optimization process was designed to get optimal rotations along with maximum total personnel cost reduction. The data set used in this research is a one-month full flight schedule from a big airline in Indonesia. A simple fuzzy logic approach was used to find a new flying time constraint in order to optimize personnel cost and evenly distribute the assignments. The results show that the new optimal flying time constraint can reduce personnel cost up to 5.07% per month, so it can yield significant savings on a yearly basis.
Design of Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) Based on Genetic Algorithm for Inverted Pendulum
Authors: Marada Tomas , Matousek Radomil , Zuth Daniel
Published: April 2019

One of the crucial problems in the dynamics and automatic control theory is balancing of an invertedpendulum robot by moving a cart along a horizontal path. This task is often used as a benchmark for di erentmethod comparison. In the practical use of the LQR method, the key problem is how to choose weight matricesQ and R correctly. To obtain satisfying results the experiments should be repeated many times with di erentparameters of weight matrices. These LQR parameters can be tuned by a Genetic Algorithm (GA) techniquefor getting better results. In our paper, the LQR parameters weight matrices Q and R which were tuned usingthe Genetic Algorithm. The simulations of the control problem are designed using MATLAB script code andMATLAB Simulink on an inverted pendulum model. The results show that the Genetic Algorithm is suitablefor tuning the parameters to give an optimal response. The control problem of the inverted pendulum was solvedsuccessfully.
Wind Power Performance Optimization Considering Redundancy and Opportunistic Maintenance
Authors: Sangroudi Hadi Abdollahzadeh
Published: April 2019

In This paper the redundancy and imperfect opportunistic maintenance optimization of a multi-state weighted k-out-of-n system is formulated. The objective is to determine the k-out-of-n system redundancy level and the maintenance strategy which will minimize the wind farm life cycle cost subject to an availability constraint. A new condition based opportunistic maintenance approach is developed. Different component health state thresholds are introduced for imperfect maintenance of failed subsystems and working subsystems and preventive dispatching of maintenance teams. In addition, a simulation method is developed to evaluate the performance measures of the system considering different types of subsystems, maintenance activation delays and durations, limited number of maintenance teams, and discrete inspection of the system. Also, a multi-seed tabu search heuristic algorithm is also proposed to solve the formulated problem. An application to the optimal design of a wind farm is provided to illustrate the proposed approach.
Design and Decomposition of Waste Prognostic Model with Hierarchical Structures
Authors: Smejkalova Veronika , Somplak Radovan , Nevrly Vlastimir , Pavlas Martin
Published: April 2019

The waste management is a dynamically progressive area, with the current trend leading to circular economy scheme. The development in this area requires quality prognosis reflecting the analysed timeframe. The forecast of the waste production and composition of waste is an important aspect with regards to the planning in waste management. However, the regular prognostic methods are not appropriate for these purposes due to short time series of historical data and unavailability of socio-economic data. The paper proposes a general approach via mathematical model for forecasting of future waste-related parameters based on spatially distributed data with hierarchical structure. The approach is based on principles of regression analysis with final balance to ensure the compliance of aggregated data values. The selection of the regression function is a part of mathematical model for high-quality description of data trend. In addition, outlier values are cleared, which occur abundantly in the database. The decomposition of the model into subtasks is performed in order to simpler implementation and reasonable time solvability. The individual algorithm steps are applied to municipal waste production data in the Czech Republic.