bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic Performance of Crop Rotations in the Presence of Herbicide‐Resistant Giant Ragweed
Authors: Goplen Jared J. , Coulter Jeffrey A. , Sheaffer Craig C. , Becker Roger L. , Breitenbach Fritz R. , Behnken Lisa M. , Gunsolus Jeffrey L.
Published: January 2018

Core Ideas

Crop rotations containing alfalfa produced the greatest economic net return.

Crop rotations with alfalfa stochastically dominated all other crop rotations.

Alfalfa improves control of herbicide‐resistant giant ragweed while providing substantial economic net return.

Economic assessment of alternative crops and crop rotations helps farmers determine those most appropriate for their farms. The objective of this research was to evaluate the economic net return and associated financial risk for crops and crop rotations common to the midwestern United States, based on two 3‐yr experiments in southern Minnesota where herbicide‐resistant giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida L.) was present. Crop rotations included corn (Zea mays L.), soybean [Glycine max L. (Merr.)], wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). Crop rotations were continuous corn (CCC), soybean–corn–corn (SCC), corn–soybean–corn (CSC), soybean–wheat–corn (SWC), soybean–alfalfa–corn (SAC), and alfalfa–alfalfa–corn (AAC). Average crop yields during the study period were utilized along with average prices received and estimated production costs for each crop in Minnesota during this period to evaluate economic net return. Average net return of the SWC, SCC, CCC, CSC, SAC, and AAC rotations was US$11, $170, $247, $258, $368, and $919 ha–1 yr–1, respectively. The AAC rotation was stochastically dominant to all other crop rotations for risk‐averse decision makers. One or 2 yr of alfalfa stochastically dominated corn, soybean, and wheat, regardless of crop rotation, largely due to more stable alfalfa prices over the study period coupled with above‐average yield and lower production costs. These results confirm that rotations containing alfalfa have the potential to provide a substantial economic net return to farmers while mitigating the risk of herbicide‐resistant giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida L.) infestations.
Maize Sole Crop and Intercrop Response to Fertilizer in Mali and Niger
Authors: Maman Nouri , Traore Lamine , Garba Maman , Dicko Mohamed , Gonda Abdou , Wortmann Charles
Published: January 2018

Core Ideas

Applying N for maize production in semi‐arid west Africa can be profitable.

The profit potential of N application is great for maize–groundnut intercrop.

Application of P and K has low and inconsistent profit potential for maize production in semi‐arid west Africa.

Nutrient response functions can be determined for maize–groundnut intercrop from maize sole crop data.

Maize (Zea mays L.) is important in semiarid West Africa where the increase in demand exceeds the increase in production. Yield is often constrained by inadequate nutrient availability even though the occurrence of soil water deficits may overall be more constraining. Research was conducted in semiarid Mali and Niger to determine the yield and profit responses of maize sole crop (MzSC) to N, P, and K and to develop a procedure for determining maize–groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) intercrop (MzGnI) nutrient response functions from MzSC functions. Trials were conducted in 2014 and 2015 at five locations spanning 14 degrees of longitude and two degrees of latitude. Mean MzSC grain yield increase due to 50 kg ha−1 N was 0.69 Mg ha−1 in Mali and 0.42 Mg ha−1 in Niger, and due to 10 kg ha−1 P was 0.14 Mg ha−1 in Niger with inconsistent P effects in Mali. Responses to K were negligible. Productivity and profit potential with N application was more with MzGnI compared with MzSC, but profit potential for applied P and K were not improved with MzGnI. Considering the fodder value of stover added to production value but did not have much effect on profits from fertilizer use. The procedure for determining MzGnI nutrient response functions by adapting MzSC functions was developed, providing a means to improve fertilizer use efficiency for MzGnI. Productivity and returns to applied N, on a maize grain value equivalent, are greater with MzGnI compared to MzSC.
Evaluation of Watershed‐Scale Simulations of In‐Stream Pesticide Concentrations from Off‐Target Spray Drift
Authors: Winchell Michael F. , Pai Naresh , Brayden Benjamin H. , Stone Chris , Whatling Paul , Hanzas John P. , Stryker Jody J.
Published: January 2018

The estimation of pesticide concentrations in surface water bodies is a critical component of the environmental risk assessment process required by regulatory agencies in North America, the European Union, and elsewhere. Pesticide transport to surface waters via deposition from off‐field spray drift can be an important route of potential contamination. The spatial orientation of treated fields relative to receiving water bodies make prediction of off‐target pesticide spray drift deposition and resulting aquatic estimated environmental concentrations (EECs) challenging at the watershed scale. The variability in wind conditions further complicates the simulation of the environmental processes leading to pesticide spray drift contributions to surface water. This study investigates the use of the Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) for predicting concentrations of malathion (O,O‐deimethyl thiophosphate of diethyl mercaptosuccinate) in a flowing water body when exposure is a result of off‐target spray drift, and assesses the model's performance using a parameterization typical of a screening‐level regulatory assessment. Six SWAT parameterizations, each including incrementally more site‐specific data, are then evaluated to quantify changes in model performance. Results indicate that the SWAT model is an appropriate tool for simulating watershed scale concentrations of pesticides resulting from off‐target spray drift deposition. The model predictions are significantly more accurate when the inputs and assumptions accurately reflect application practices and environmental conditions. Inclusion of detailed wind data had the most significant impact on improving model‐predicted EECs in comparison to observed concentrations.

Core Ideas

SWAT can simulate pesticide concentrations resulting from off‐target spray drift deposition.

Screening‐level assumptions produce extremely conservative (high) concentrations.

Predictions are more accurate when inputs reflect site‐specific data.

Inclusion of actual wind data had the greatest impact on improving model results.
Morphological and Genetic Characterization of Non‐Nodulating Peanut Recombinant Inbred Lines
Authors: Peng Ze , Tan Lubin , López Yolanda , Maku James , Liu Fengxia , Zhou Hai , Tseng Yu‐Chien , Yang Xiping , Hsieh Yih‐Feng , Song Jian , Wang Liping , Tillman Barry L. , Gallo Maria , Wang Jianping
Published: January 2018

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) nodulation is relatively diverged from other legumes. Further understanding of nodulation mechanisms would facilitate improvement of biological N fixation and yield in peanut. The objective of this study was to characterize the non‐nodulating (Nod−) peanut recombinant inbred lines (RILs) in comparison to their nodulating (Nod+) sister RILs morphologically and genetically. Two pairs of Nod− and Nod+ RILs were inoculated with rhizobia for morphological observation. Nodules and root hairs were absent in Nod− lines and present in Nod+ lines. The Nod− lines had a much smaller canopy with yellow leaves and fewer pods than Nod+ lines. Simple‐sequence repeat (SSR) marker genotyping of the two pairs of RILs and their parental lines revealed several chromosome regions differing between Nod− and Nod+ sister lines, which potentially harbor the genes controlling nodulation. Two F2 populations segregating for nodulation were constructed by crossing the two Nod− lines with their Nod+ sister lines. The segregation ratios of Nod−/Nod+ of the two populations followed 7:9 and 7:57, respectively, indicating that multiple genes were involved in controlling peanut nodulation. The results from this study provided important morphological and genetic information related to peanut nodulation, which paved the road for further mapping and cloning of peanut nodulation genes and for eventually developing peanut cultivars with improved N fixation efficiency.
Characterization of Adult Plant Resistance to Leaf Rust and Stripe Rust in Indian Wheat Cultivar ‘New Pusa 876’
Authors: Ponce‐Molina Luis J. , Huerta‐Espino Julio , Singh Ravi P. , Basnet Bhoja R. , Lagudah Evans , Aguilar‐Rincón Víctor H. , Alvarado Gregorio , Lobato‐Ortiz Ricardo , García‐Zavala Jesús , Lan Caixia
Published: January 2018

Growing resistant varieties is the most effective and economical method for controlling rust of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Resistance to leaf rust and stripe rust, caused by Puccinia triticina Erikss. and P. striiformis Westend. f. sp. tritici, respectively, was investigated in 148 F5 recombinant inbred lines derived from a cross between ‘Avocet’ and ‘New Pusa 876’ (NP876). The parents and population were phenotyped for resistance in field trials for 3 and 2 yr for leaf rust and stripe rust, respectively, and genotyped with gene‐linked molecular markers. The segregation analyses indicated that the adult plant resistance to leaf rust and stripe rust was conferred by five and four additive effect genes, respectively. Among them, the slow‐rusting adult plant resistance gene Lr46/Yr29 reduced 14 and 16% of mean leaf rust and stripe rust severities, respectively, whereas a severity reduction of 26% occurred due to Lr67/Yr46 for both rusts. Both resistance genes were contributed by NP876. An additive effect between leaf rust resistance genes Lr46 and Lr67 was detected, with a reduction up to 11% when they were present together. The effect of combining Yr29 and Yr46 was additive but not significant, with a mean reduction of 5% in severity. New Pusa 876 can be used as a multiple rust resistance source to breed wheat varieties that may contribute towards durable resistance.
Identifikasi Spatial Pattern dan Spatial Autocorrelation pada Indeks Pembangunan Manusia Provinsi Papua Barat Tahun 2012
Authors: Nisa Eva Khoirun
Published: January 2018

One of the support aspect the country development is human resource quality. When we talking about human resource quality, it’s not separated with human development. The international standard of human development is Human Development Index (HDI). HDI becomes important indicator in West Papua province which is one of the youngest provinces in Papua. There is spatial effect of human development condition among districts in West Papua. Spatial Pattern and Spatial Autocorrelation as statistical methods can be used to identify HDI dependency among districts in West Papua. The statistical tests on Spatial Autocorrelation has found that there was no spatial independency of HDI on 2017 among districts in West Papua province.

==================================================

 

Salah satu aspek yang mendukung pembangunan suatu negara adalah kualitas sumber daya manusia. Berbicara mengenai kualitas sumber daya manusia maka tidak lepas dengan pembangunan manusia. Ukuran standar pembangunan manusia yang dapat digunakan secara internasional yaitu Indeks Pembangunan Manusia (IPM) atau Human Development Index (HDI). IPM menjadi hal yang penting bagi Provinsi Papua Barat mengingat Papua Barat menjadi salah satu provinsi termuda hasil pemekaran wilayah Provinsi Papua. Sangat dimungkinkan adanya pengaruh spasial pada kondisi pembangunan manusia antar kabupaten/kota di Provinsi Papua Barat. Spatial Pattern dan Spatial Autocorrelation menjadi metode statistika yang dapat mengidentifikasi adanya dependensi IPM antar kabupaten/kota di Provinsi Papua Barat. Dengan beberapa pengujian statistik Spatial Autocorrelation menghasilkan bahwa tidak terdapat dependensi spasial terhadap angka IPM pada tahun 2012 antar kabupaten/kota di Provinsi Papua Barat.

 

 
Suppression of nutrient release from freshwater lake sediments using granulated coal ash
Authors: Fukushima Takehiko , Okabe Masako , Hibino Tadashi , Touch Narong , Nakamoto Kenji
Published: January 2018

In order to investigate the applicability of granulated coal ash (GCA), a by-product of coal thermal power stations, to freshwater lakes, two incubation experiments (fall and summer experiments) were conducted using large-volume vessels and sediments taken from eutrophic lakes. The phosphorus and nitrogen release fluxes in the vessels with GCA (up to 2.9 mg m−2 d−1 for total phosphorus and 23.9 mg m−2 d−1 for total nitrogen) were considerably smaller than those in the vessels without GCA (up to 8.9 mg m−2 d−1 and 56 mg m−2 d−1, respectively), except in the case of phosphorus in the fall experiment, and thus the phosphorus concentration released from the vessel without GCA under anoxic conditions in the summer experiment was extraordinarily higher (over 1.5 mg l−1) than those in the other vessels (less than 0.31 mg l−1). Supplementary experiments with smaller columns indicated that the chemical effect of GCA was on a similar level with its physical effect and that the threshold phosphorus concentration for removing it was lower in freshwater than seawater. The chromium level slightly exceeded the standard for drinking water and the development of technology to suppress its release is a future challenge.
Chemistry in the Bioactivity of Chlorophylls: An Overview
Authors: Perez-Galvez Antonio , Viera Isabel , Roca Maria
Published: January 2018

Background:

In addition to the considerable number of different chlorophyll
structures originated naturally, prominent research is made to produce new specific semisynthetic
structures. The final target is to obtain chlorophyll derivatives with even better
bioactive properties than those of the natural parent compounds.

Method:

A detailed, extensive and critic literature search has been made in Web of
Science™.

Results:

Great efforts are applying to optimize the function of chlorophyll-based photosensitizers,
to understand the molecular mechanisms of the antioxidant and antigenotoxic
properties of chlorophyll derivatives and, lastly, to investigate new biological actions of
them. However, the fundamental physiological functions of the chlorophylls are their
physicochemical properties.

Conclusion:

This review aims to reflect the chemical grounds of the healthy and/or medical
features of chlorophylls, including the consequences, advantages or even new actions
that modifications over the chlorophyll structure introduce. Finally, new perspectives in
the functionality of chlorophylls at molecular level are discussed.
Is Atherothromboaspiration a Possible Solution for the Prevention of No-Reflow Phenomenon in Acute Coronary Syndromes? Single Centre Experience and Review of the Literature
Authors: Manolis Antonis S.
Published: January 2018

Background: Intracoronary thrombus in acute Myocardial Infarction (MI) confers higher
rates of no-reflow with attendant adverse consequences. Earlier Randomized-Controlled-Trials (RCTs)
of routine thromboaspiration during Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) indicated a clinical benefit,
but more recent RCTs were negative. However, data of selective use of this adjunctive approach
remain scarce.

Objective: The aim of this single-centre prospective study was to report the results of selective thromboaspiration
during PCI in patients with intracoronary thrombi, and also to provide an extensive literature
review on current status of thromboaspiration.

Methods: The study included 90 patients (77 men; aged 59.3±12.7 years) presenting with acute MI (STElevation
MI (STEMI) in 74, non-STEMI in 16) who had intracoronary thrombi and were submitted to
thromboaspiration.

Results: Total (n=67) or subtotal (n=18) vessel occlusions were present in 85 (94%) patients. Thromboaspiration
and subsequent PCI were successful in 89/90 (98.9%) patients, with coronary stenting in 86
(96.6%). In 4 patients with residual thrombus, a mesh-covered stent was implanted. IIb/IIIa-inhibitors
were administered in 57 (63.3%) patients. No-reflow occurred in only 1 (1.1%) patient. The postprocedural
course was uneventful. Review of the literature revealed several early observational and
RCTs and meta-analyses favouring manual, not mechanical, thrombectomy. However, newer RCTs and
meta-analyses significantly curtailed the initial enthusiasm for the clinical benefits of routine use of
thromboaspiration.

Conclusion: Selective thromboaspiration for angiographically visible thrombi in MI patients undergoing
PCI, as an adjunct to mechanical reperfusion and to IIb/IIIa-inhibitors, may be an option since this
manoeuvre may improve procedural and clinical outcome.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Triazoles Linked 7-hydroxycoumarin as Potent Cytotoxic Agents
Authors: Farooq Saleem , Hussain Aashiq , Qurishi Mushtaq A. , Hamid Abid , Koul S.
Published: January 2018

Background:

BacCancer is regarded as second leading cause of death worldwide. Therefore, there is
a high demand for the discovery, development and improvement of novel anti-cancer agents which could efficiently
prevent proliferative pathways and clonal expansion of cells.

Objective:

In view of this, a new series of bioactive scaffolds viz triazoles linked 7-hydroxycoumarin (1) were
synthesized using click chemistry approach.

Method:

All the synthesized compounds were screened for cytotoxicity against a panel of seven different human
cancer cell lines viz. Colon (Colo-205 and HCT-116), breast (MCF-7), lung (NCI-H322 and A549), prostate
(PC-3) and skin (A-431) using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-yl)-diphenyl tetrazoliumbromide (MTT) assay.

Results:

Among all tested analogs, compound 5, displayed better cytotoxic activity as compared to the parent 7-
hydroxycoumarin (1) with IC50 of 5.1, 22.7, 14.3 and 10.2 µM against breast (MCF-7), lung (NCI- H322), prostate
(PC-3) and skin (A-431) cancer cell lines, respectively; the compound 5 was 8-fold more sensitive against
MCF-7 than the parent 7-hydroxycoumarin. Moreover, Compound 5 induced both cytotoxic as well as cytostatic
effects via induction of apoptosis and G1 phase arrest, respectively in breast cancer cells (MCF-7). The apoptotic
cell population enhanced to 18.8% at 8 µM of 5 from 9.8% in case of negative control, while G1 phase arrest
increased to 54.4% at 8 µM compared to negative control of 48.1%. Moreover, Compound 5 also exhibited a
remarkable decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (ΛΨm) leading to apoptosis of cancer cells used.

Conclusion:

The structure-activity relationship study revealed that the derivatives bearing electron-withdrawing
substituents were more effective. The present study resulted in identification of the compounds demonstrating
broad spectrum cytotoxic activity.
PEMAHAMAN LITERASI MEDIA DI LINGKUNGAN PENGURUS PIMPINAN WILAYAH AISYIYAH DAERAH ISTIMEWA YOGYAKARTA PERIODE 2015-2020
Authors: Ulfah Mariana , Fajri Choirul , Fadillah Dani
Published: January 2018

As parents mothers play an important role in giving directions to targeted all relating to the event who deserves to consume by family. This study was conducted by adopting descriptive quantitative. Handing out the questionnaire to the Leader of ‘Aisyiyah DIY the period 2015-2020. The result of shows that there has been understanding of literacy media of ‘Aisyiyah DIY, the attitude shown to the son of/his daughter in preventing negative effects impressions television. But of the that good, do not affect significantly to the attitudes shown.  Sebagai orang tua Ibu memiliki peran penting dalam memberikan arahan kepadaputra-putrinya terkait dengan acara yang layak untuk dikonsumsi keluarga. Penelitianini dilaksanakan dengan menggunakan pendekatan deskriptif kuantitatif. Denganmembagikan kuesioner kepada Pengurus Pimpinan Wilayah Aisyiyah Yogyakartaperiode 2015-2020. Hasil dari menunjukkan adanya pemahaman dari literasi mediaPengurus PWA ‘Aisyiyah DIY, adanya sikap yang ditunjukkan kepada putra/putrinyadalam mencegah dampak buruk tayangan televisi. Akan tetapi dari pemahaman yangbaik tersebut, tidak berpengaruh secara signifikan terhadap sikap yang ditunjukkan.
Pengaruh ukuran sampel dan intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) terhadap bias estimasi parameter multilevel latent variable modeling: studi dengan simulasi Monte Carlo
Authors: Putra Muhammad Dwirifqi Kharisma , Umar Jahja , Hayat Bahrul , Utomo Agung Priyo
Published: January 2018

Studi ini menggunakan simulasi Monte Carlo dilakukan untuk melihat pengaruh ukuran sampel dan intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) terhadap bias estimasi parameter multilevel latent variable modeling. Kondisi simulasi diciptakan dengan beberapa faktor yang ditetapkan yaitu lima kondisi ICC (0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25), jumlah kelompok (30, 50, 100 dan 150), jumlah observasi dalam kelompok (10, 20 dan 50) dan diestimasi menggunakan lima metode estimasi: ML, MLF, MLR, WLSMV dan BAYES. Jumlah kondisi keseluruhan sebanyak 300 kondisi dimana tiap kondisi direplikasi sebanyak 1000 kali dan dianalisis menggunakan software Mplus 7.4. Kriteria bias yang masih dapat diterima adalah < 10%. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa bias yang terjadi dipengaruhi oleh ukuran sampel dan ICC, penelitian ini juga menujukkan bahwa metode estimasi WLSMV dan BAYES berfungsi lebih baik pada berbagai kondisi dibandingkan dengan metode estimasi berbasis ML.Kata kunci: multilevel latent variable modeling, intraclass correlation coefficients, Metode Markov Chain Monte Carlo THE IMPACT OF SAMPLE SIZE AND INTRACLASS CORRELATION COEFFICIENTS (ICC) ON THE BIAS OF PARAMETER ESTIMATION IN MULTILEVEL LATENT VARIABLE MODELING: A MONTE CARLO STUDYAbstractA monte carlo study was conducted to investigate the effect of sample size and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) on the bias of parameter estimates in multilevel latent variable modeling. The design factors included (ICC: 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25), number of groups in between level model (NG: 30, 50, 100 and 150), cluster size (CS: 10, 20 and 50) to be estimated with five different estimator: ML, MLF, MLR, WLSMV and BAYES. Factors were interegated into 300 conditions (4 NG  3 CS  5 ICC  5 Estimator). For each condition, replications with convergence problems were exclude until at least 1.000 replications were generated and analyzed using Mplus 7.4, we also consider absolute percent bias <10% to represent an acceptable level of bias. We find that the degree of bias depends on sample size and ICC. We also show that WLSMV and BAYES estimator performed better than ML-based estimator across varying sample sizes and ICC’s conditions.Keywords: multilevel latent variable modeling, intraclass correlation coefficients, Markov Chain Monte Carlo method
Bovine Immunogenetic Response to S. aureus and E. coli Mastitis: A Review
Authors: Bayan Jyotishree , Sulabh Sourabh
Published: January 2018

The difference in the pattern of immune response between Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus
aureus leads to different form of mastitis that they cause. A more hyper immune response by E.
coli results in clinical mastitis whereas a subdued response of S. aureus changes the outcome to
subclinical mastitis. The immune system of the animal recognises various antigens present in these
bacteria (such as lipopolysaccharide, peptidoglycan and lipoteichoic acid) which induce or suppress
the activity of major immune related genes resulting into the type of outcome the animal shows
which either help the animal to recover quickly or may even amplify the response in such a way
that causes discomfort or may even lead to death of the animal. This review reflects the importance
and role of immune related genes involved in the mechanism of protection of the animal against
two of the most common infectious bacterial agents, i.e., E. coli and S. aureus responsible for
inducing inflammatory response in the mammary gland.
Prevalence of Theileria annulata on the basis of Nutritional Status of the Crossbreed Cows
Authors: Dadhich Shri Ram , Mehta Hemant Kumar , Gupta Arup Kumar , Jain Raj Kumar
Published: January 2018

In the present study the prevalence of T.annulata on the basis of nutritional status of the animals
shoed that animals having good nutritional status suffer least from ticks infestation in all age group
animals ie calves up to 1 year, heifers from 1 to 3 years and adult cows more than 3 years having
good nutritional condition the prevalence of T.annulata was found to be least 14.81% ,20.00% and
11.53% respectively, while within the same age group animals having poor nutrition had prevalence
of 44.44%, 46.66 and 50.00% indicating that animals having good nutritional status have better
immune system. In all age group animals having fair and poor nutritional status this disease
prevalence increases due to heavy ticks infestation which lead to lower body immune system. As
nutrition plays a key role in the balance of health and disease which decides whether an animal
stays healthy or succumbs to disease.
Types of food and the value of healthy eating on well being: A study
Authors: Guha Sampurna
Published: January 2018

A strong body means physical strength which has a positive impact on our personality and translates into a feeling of holistic well being. Man needs three basic things for survival: food, shelter and clothing. Nutrition is important. Eating a balanced diet is vital for good health and well being. Food provides our body with energy, protein, essential fats, vitamins and minerals. These in turn help us to grow, live and function properly. Health is wealth goes a popular saying. We need a variety of food to provide the right amount of nutrients for gaining good physical and mental health (NHMRC). Food is the source of all our bodily functions and directly affects our body and mind functions in every stage of life. Healthy food helps in disease prevention, maintenance of healthy weight, provides energy and impacts our quality of life (Sushant, 2015). The purpose of the present study is to understand the importance of good values of eating such as good eating habits, avoidance of junk food, maintenance of personal and environmental cleanliness, regular exercise and safety and their direct impact on personality development and overall well being. A detailed study was done of various secondary sources of data available on importance of food and its impact on overall well being, including a study of the Bhagwat Gita, which mentions various types of food desired by individuals according to their inherent tendencies. The findings from the study indicate that imbibing values of healthy eating such as eating healthy and hygienic food, eating food on time, doing regular exercise, following safety and security measures all have a direct impact on holistic well being. The personality also gets enhanced and a person feels good about himself and the world. Hence, there is a felt need to create awareness about healthy eating habits, need for regular sacrifice, maintenance of cleanliness and following safety measures among learners especially at the primary and secondary level thereby promoting holistic development for the youth.
GURU GHASIDAS AND HIS PHILOSOPHY: CHALLENGING BRAHMANISM IN CHHATTISGARH
Authors: Manjre Sanjiw Kumar
Published: January 2018

Guru Ghasidas was a great social reformer and philosopher in Chhattisgarh. He was the founder of the Satnami movement in Chhattisgarh. His all philosophies and messages were dedicated to humanity and all living being. He has talked about casteless and untouchability free society where always been equality, Satya-ahinsa (truth and non-violence), freedom and brotherhood and there should be no place for discrimination in the name of pure and pollution. Today also, Guru Ghasidas's philosophy teaches the Satnamis even all humans in two sides. First, is tried to make a good person in everyday life. Second is that hit to hierarchical Brahmanic supremacy and itself keep away from Hindu god-goddess. Because, not existence of the Gods, it is only mythical story and their all characters are fictional. They can’t ever help you. It has been completed through secondary sources.
Food Allergy Training for Schools and Restaurants (The Food Allergy Community Program): Protocol to Evaluate the Effectiveness of a Web-Based Program (Preprint)
Authors: Pádua Inês , Moreira André , Moreira Pedro , Barros Renata
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Food allergy is a growing public health concern. The literature suggests that a significant number of reactions occur in community services, such as schools and restaurants. Therefore, suitable training and education for education and catering professionals using viable and practical tools is needed.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a Web-based food allergy training program for professionals working in schools and restaurants, designed to improve knowledge and good practices in the community.

METHODS

Free learning programs which contain educational animated videos about food allergy were developed for professionals working at schools and restaurants. The learning programs comprise of nine 5-minute videos, developed in video animation format using GoAnimate, with a total course length of 45-60 minutes. The courses for professionals at both schools and restaurants include contents about food allergy epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment, dietary avoidance, emergencies, labelling, and accidental exposure prevention. Additionally, specific topics for work practices at schools and restaurants were provided. Food allergy knowledge survey tools were developed to access the knowledge and management skills about food allergy of school and restaurant staff, at baseline and at the end of the food allergy program. The courses will be provided on the e-learning platform of the University of Porto and professionals from catering and education sectors will be invited to participate.

RESULTS

Data collection will take place between September 2017 and October 2017, corresponding to a 2-month intervention. Final results will be disseminated in scientific journals and presented at national and international conferences.

CONCLUSIONS

The Food Allergy Community Program intervention may improve school and restaurant professionals’ commitment and skills to deal with food allergy in the community. Furthermore, this e-intervention program will provide an innovative contribution to understanding the impact of electronic health technologies on the learning process and the development of strategies for community interventions.

REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER

RR1-10.2196/9770
Predicting Mood Disturbance Severity with Mobile Phone Keystroke Metadata: A BiAffect Digital Phenotyping Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zulueta John , Piscitello Andrea , Rasic Mladen , Easter Rebecca , Babu Pallavi , Langenecker Scott A , McInnis Melvin , Ajilore Olusola , Nelson Peter C , Ryan Kelly , Leow Alex
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Mood disorders are common and associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Better tools are needed for their diagnosis and treatment. Deeper phenotypic understanding of these disorders is integral to the development of such tools. This study is the first effort to use passively collected mobile phone keyboard activity to build deep digital phenotypes of depression and mania.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of our study was to investigate the relationship between mobile phone keyboard activity and mood disturbance in subjects with bipolar disorders and to demonstrate the feasibility of using passively collected mobile phone keyboard metadata features to predict manic and depressive signs and symptoms as measured via clinician-administered rating scales.

METHODS

Using a within-subject design of 8 weeks, subjects were provided a mobile phone loaded with a customized keyboard that passively collected keystroke metadata. Subjects were administered the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) weekly. Linear mixed-effects models were created to predict HDRS and YMRS scores. The total number of keystrokes was 626,641, with a weekly average of 9791 (7861), and that of accelerometer readings was 6,660,890, with a weekly average 104,076 (68,912).

RESULTS

A statistically significant mixed-effects regression model for the prediction of HDRS-17 item scores was created: conditional R2=.63, P=.01. A mixed-effects regression model for YMRS scores showed the variance accounted for by random effect was zero, and so an ordinary least squares linear regression model was created: R2=.34, P=.001. Multiple significant variables were demonstrated for each measure.

CONCLUSIONS

Mood states in bipolar disorder appear to correlate with specific changes in mobile phone usage. The creation of these models provides evidence for the feasibility of using passively collected keyboard metadata to detect and monitor mood disturbances.
SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF ALUMINIUM OXIDE NANOPARTICLES
Authors: D. Manyasree , P. Kiranmayi , S. N. Ravi Kumar R. V. S.
Published: January 2018

Objective: In the present study, synthesized alumina (Al2O3) nanoparticles were characterized and their antibacterial activity against gram positive and gram negative organisms were studied.Methods: The synthesis was carried out by coprecipitation method using aluminium sulfate and NaOH as precursors. The synthesized aluminium oxide nanoparticles were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) with Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDX) techniques. Besides, this study determines the antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Al2O3 nanoparticles against gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans) and gram-negative (E. coli and Proteus vulgaris) bacteria. Results: The average crystallite size of Al2O3 nanoparticles was found to be 35 nm by X-ray diffraction. FT-IR spectrum exhibited the peaks at 615 and 636 were assigned to the aluminium oxide stretching. The EDX measurements indicated the presence of Al along with O peaks. It indicates the purity of the sample. The antimicrobial assay revealed that E. coli showed a maximum zone of inhibition (39 mm) at 50 mg/ml concentration of Al2O3 nanoparticles.Conclusion: In conclusion, aluminium oxide is a good antibacterial agent against both gram positive and gram-negative organisms.
PSIDIUM GUAJAVA L. EXTRACT INCREASES PLATELET COUNT THROUGH ENHANCEMENT OF STEM CELL FACTOR EXPRESSION IN THROMBOCYTOPENIC MICE MODEL
Authors: Atik Nur , Tarawifa Susan , Avriyanti Erda , Rahmadi Andri Reza , Hilmanto Dany
Published: January 2018

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the mechanism through which guava extract increases platelet count.Methods: Twenty male Swiss webster mice were divided into 4 group. Group I received 2.8 mg/20 g body weight of quinine and 1 ml of distilled water. Group II received 2.8 mg/20 grBW of quinine and 0.785 mg/20 grBW of guava extract. Group III received 1 ml distilled water and 0.785 mg/20 grBW of guava extract and Group IV only received 1 ml distilled water. After 14 days** treatment, platelet count was measured using Raas-Ecker method. SCF and TPO mRNA expressions in mice liver were assessed using qRT-PCR.Results: The data showed that quinine administration reduced platelet count significantly (P<0.05). Psidium guajava L. extraction significantly enhanced platelet count in mice that were treated with quinine compared with quinine group (p<0.05). The mechanism was analysed further and our RT PCR data showed that stem cell factor mRNA expression significant increased (p<0.05) in quinine plus guava extract group compared to quinine group.Conclusion: It indicated guava extract role in increasing megakaryopoiesis which resulted in an increase of platelet count.
UV SPECTROPHOTOMETRY METHOD DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF SULFADIAZINE AND TRIMETHOPRIM IN COMBINED DOSAGE FORM
Authors: Pokala Ramakrishna Veni , Kumari Kusuma , Bollikola Hari Babu
Published: January 2018

Objective: A new, simple, sensitive and economical UV spectrophotometric method was developed for the simultaneous analysis of Sulfadiazine [SDA] and Trimethoprim [TMP] in pharmaceutical formulations.Methods: This UV method was developed with methanol as solvent. The wavelengths selected for analysis in the present method were 265 nm for TMP and 289 nm for SDA. Teccomp UV-2301 double beam UV/Vis spectrophotometer was used to carry out spectral analysis and the data was recorded by Hitachi software.Results: Linearity was found to be within the concentration range of 2-9 µg/ml TMP and 9.08-41 µg/ml of SDA. Accuracy of the method was determined by recovery studies. Percentage recovery was found to be 98.20-99.25 for TMP with a % RSD of 0.338, 0.506 and 0.510 for three spiked levels. % RSD was found to be 0.229 and 0.380; 0.212 and 0.328 for SDA, TMP in intra and inter-day precision respectively. The % RSD value in ruggedness was found to be 0.440 for SDA and 0.569 for TMP.Conclusion: The advantages of this method for analytical purposes lie in the rapid determination, its cost-effectiveness, easy preparation of the sample, good reproducibility. In addition to this, the present method can be recommended for simultaneous determination of SDA and TMP in routine quality control analysis in combined drug formulations.
PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND IN VITRO STUDIES ON ANTIBACTERIAL, ANTIOXIDANT AND ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITIES USING CASUARINA EQUISETIFOLIA BARK EXTRACTS
Authors: K. Saranya V. T. , Gowrie S. Uma
Published: January 2018

Objective: Casuarina equisetifolia is an important multipurpose exotic forest tree species widely cultivated in the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu that serves as a warehouse of essential secondary metabolites. Identification of these bioactive compounds in this forest tree species might lead to the discovery and development of a new drug to treat various diseases. Methods: The present study was carried out with an objective to analyse the phytochemicals qualitatively and quantitatively. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was performed to evaluate the presence of various volatile compounds. An in vitro antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of aqueous and organic solvents of C. equisetifolia bark was studied.Results: The preliminary qualitative screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, carbohydrates, proteins, flavonoids, phenols, terpenoids, and tannins. The quantitative analysis revealed the presence of maximum phenols (71.2±0.51 mg/g), flavonoids (35.12±0.34 mg/g), tannins (77.59±0.21) and terpenoids (6%) in methanolic root extract with respective standards. Several peaks were obtained in the GC-MS analysis which indicates the presence of different secondary metabolites. Antibacterial activity showed a maximum zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli (23±0.24 mm) and Proteus vulgaris (23±0.32 mm). The antioxidant potential of various extracts was compared with the standard ascorbic acid. Anti-inflammatory activity was compared with standard diclofenac sodium and the extract showed activities significantly in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: From this study, it is revealed that C. equisetifolia bark extract possesses efficient antibacterial property, the potential in scavenging free radical, effective antioxidant, powerful anti-inflammatory source that can be employed in the development of a novel drug to treat various diseases.
EVALUATION OF α-GLUCOSIDASE INHIBITORY POTENTIAL OF METHANOLIC LEAF EXTRACT OF OCIMUM CANUM
Authors: Smita Kumari
Published: January 2018

Objective: The present investigation was designed to study the inhibitory effects of methanolic leaf extract of Ocimum canum (O. canum) on α-glucosidase using in vitro model followed by an assessment of bioactive compounds.Methods: The methanolic leaf extract was prepared by Soxhlet extraction method and partially purified by thin layer chromatography (TLC). Each band was subjected to α-glucosidase inhibition study. The positive bands were further characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and quadrupole time of flight (Q-TOF) micro mass spectrometer.Results: Out of the several combinations of solvent systems, toluene, ethyl acetate and formic acid combination in the ratio of 7:2:1 revealed 5 bands on the TLC sheet. Among all the TLC bands, 2 bands (band A and B) showed the significant inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase activity. HPLC analysis of band A and B revealed the presence of two important polyphenolic compounds, namely rosmarinic acid (RA) and ursolic acid (UA). Q-TOF micromass spectrometer analysis revealed the percentage availability of RA, caffeic acid, tartaric acid, quercetin and other polyphenolic components in the bioactive bands.Conclusion: The study revealed that methanolic leaf extract of O. canum exhibits potent inhibition of α-glucosidase activity. Inhibition of α-glucosidase activity might be attributed to the presence of the polyphenolic compounds like RA and UA. Therefore, this finding can lead to the development of natural α-glucosidase inhibitors by the O. canum leaf extract.
OXIDATIVE DNA DAMAGE PROTECTIVE AND HEPATOPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF TERMI-NALIA BELLERICA (BAHEDA)
Authors: Gupta Rasna , Singh Ram Lakhan , Pant Andab
Published: January 2018

Objective: To investigate the ethanolic extracts of Terminalia bellerica for its in vitro DNA damage protective activity against hydroxyl radical (OH•) and hepatoprotective activity against CCl4 induced toxicity in HepG2 liver cells.Methods: The DNA damage assay was performed using supercoiled pBR322 plasmid DNA with Fenton’s reagent. Protection of human liver-derived HepG2 cells against CCl4 induced damage was determined by trypan blue exclusion assay and Tetrazolium bromide salt MTT assay. Liver cells were pre-exposed to 0.5 µmol/ml of CCl4 for 60 min at room temperature and screening assay was carried out in HepG2 cells to evaluate the cytotoxicity of tested extracts with concentration 0.001 to 100 µg/ml.Results: The low dose (0.001-0.1 µg/ml) of leaf and bark has an effect on the percentage viability (101±4.04) and 97±4.04) for leaf and bark extracts respectively) of HepG2 cells. Whereas, the percentage cell viability 99±2.89 and 103±4.04 were found for fruit pulp and seed extracts respectively. The uniform DNA damage protective activity was observed in a dose-dependent manner for leaf, fruit pulp, seed and bark extracts of T. bellerica. Conclusion: Leaf and bark of T. bellerica exhibit 10 fold less toxicity compared to fruit pulp and seed during CCl4 exposure on HepG2 cells suggesting that leaf and bark has more therapeutic potential against hepatotoxicity.
SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF POTASSIUM CIS-DIAQUA-BIS (OXALATO) CHROMATE (III) WITH LEVODOPA AND CARBIDOPA
Authors: Rout Sudhanshu Sekhar , Pattanaik Sovan , Si Sudam Chandra , Mohanty Prakash
Published: January 2018

Objective: These studies focus on the interaction between two clinically active antiparkinsonian drugs L-dopa (L) and carbidopa (C) with the cis-[Cr(C2O4)2(H2O)2]-and evaluation of the synthesized product from a coordination chemistry aspect with respect to the possibility of its antioxidant activity and its therapeutic application in the treatment of Parkinson disease.Methods: The resulting synthesized complexes were characterized by UV-VIS and FTIR spectroscopy. Evaluation of antioxidant activities of this cis-[Cr(C2O4)2(H2O)2]--L-dopa(ML), cis-[Cr(C2O4)2(H2O)2]--carbidopa(MC) and standard butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) were carried out by using 1,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH), 2,2-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical cations and hydrogen peroxide method.Results: The results of spectral analysis of the synthesized products indicate that complexes have a Cr(III) ion coordinated via the carboxylic and amino group. In the reduction of radical DPPH· and the formation of radical monocation ABTS·+the ability to scavenge radical was measured in these experiments by the discoloration of the solution. However, in hydrogen peroxide method, the increased in absorbance showing its scavenging potential. The scavenging capacity of the test compounds and standard on the DPPH, ABTS·+, H2O2 decreased in the order BHT>ML>MC>C>L which were 98.4, 96.4, 86.4, 68.3, 49.7% for DPPH, BHT>ML>L>MC>C which were 99.3, 96.9, 96.3,66.6, 53.4% for ABTS·+, BHT>ML>MC>L>C which were 68.8%, 52.4%, 49.6%, 43.1% and 37.7% for H2O2 at the concentration of 50 µg/ml, respectively.Conclusion: The experimental findings showed that cis-[Cr(C2O4)2(H2O)2]--levodopa and cis-[Cr(C2O4)2(H2O)2]--carbidopa are having higher antioxidant potential than Levodopa and carbidopa although not superior to that of standard compound.
PHOTODEGRADATION OF 1, 4-DIHYDROPYRIDINE ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS: AN UPDATED REVIEW
Authors: Luca Michele De , Ioele Giuseppina , Spatari Claudia , Ragno Gaetano
Published: January 2018

1, 4-dihydropyridine calcium channels blockers (DHPs) are the most commonly used antihypertensive drugs. Unfortunately, these compounds have a significant degradability to light. The oxidation to the pyridine derivative represents the first, and in many cases the only, step of the degradation mechanism. The photodegradation process causes the complete loss of pharmacological activity and may trigger the formation of single and superoxide oxygen species, potentially responsible for phototoxic reactions. Several analytical techniques have been proposed for DHP determination in the presence of their photoproducts. Nowadays, DHPs are all marketed in solid formulations, especially tablets, because photodegradation is particularly fast in solution. Various approaches aimed to protect molecular integrity and therapeutic activity of these drugs from the effects of light are currently studied. This review covers the studies over the last years about photodegradation of the DHPs and the approaches to obtain photostable formulations of these drugs.
Outcomes research examining treatments, quality of life and costs in
HER2
-negative and triple-negative metastatic breast cancer: a systematic literature review
Authors: Parisi Monika , Pelletier Corey , Cherepanov Dasha , Broder Michael S
Published: January 2018

Aim:
With the aggregation of real-world data in healthcare, opportunities for outcomes research are growing. In this study, we summarize published literature examining comparative effectiveness research (CER), treatment patterns, quality of life (QoL) and costs in 
HER2
-negative and triple-negative (TN) metastatic breast cancer (mBC).
Methods:
PubMed (2010–January 2016) and four conferences (2013–January 2016) were searched using MeSH/keywords, including mBC, QoL, morbidity and therapeutics. Studies relating to CER, treatment patterns, QoL, costs or treatment appropriateness in US patients with
HER2
-negative/TN mBC were included in the review.
Results:
Of 1782 identified records, 33 studies met full inclusion criteria: seven related to CER, 18 to treatment patterns, one to treatment appropriateness/navigation, two to QoL and five to costs. Studies varied in objectives, designs and outcomes. Study designs included retrospective chart reviews (52%), retrospective secondary database analyses (27%), economic models (12%), physician surveys (6%) and patient surveys (3%). 25 studies reported results on
HER2
-negative mBC, six on TN mBC and two on both subtypes. The most common end points examined were treatment patterns, overall survival and progression-free survival.
Conclusion:
Outcomes research in
HER2
-negative mBC in the USA was limited, specifically among TN patients, indicating an opportunity for further research in this high unmet need population. Endpoints and treatment options varied, thus, it is difficult to draw summary conclusions about these studies. Outcomes research examining real-world data in mBC has increased in recent years, and may continue to grow with the implementation of new policy programs.