bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influência da temperatura de secagem de fatias da polpa de abóbora menina brasileira nos parâmetros cinéticos e termodinâmicos
Authors: Santos Luan Gustavo dos , Werle Leandro Osmar
Published: May 2021

A abóbora apresenta grande interesse nutricional devido seu conteúdo de carboidratos, fibras, carotenoides e compostos fenólicos. A abóbora menina brasileira é comumente encontrada no Brasil e apresenta grande susceptibilidade à degradação devido ao seu alto conteúdo de umidade, que promove a modificação das características físico-químicas e sensoriais, elevando a proliferação de micro-organismos e descarte deste alimento. Sendo assim, este trabalho tem por objetivo realizar a secagem convectiva de fatias da polpa da abóbora menina brasileira nas temperaturas de 50, 60, 70 e 80 ºC, avaliando por meio de modelos matemáticos empíricos e semiempíricos os efeitos em relação a cinética de secagem e dos parâmetros termodinâmicos do processo. A cinética de secagem foi obtida por sucessivas pesagens de fatias de abóbora menina brasileira alocadas em secadora de bandeja ajustada a uma velocidade do ar de 1 m s-1. Os dados cinéticos foram ajustados a seis modelos matemáticos e a Segunda Lei de Fick foi utilizada para determinar o coeficiente de difusividade do material. A partir da equação de Arrhenius foram determinados os parâmetros termodinâmicos. Foi observado que o aumento da temperatura reduziu o tempo de secagem de 360 min para 180 min, elevando a difusividade efetiva de 1,3526x10-9 para 1,9352x10-9. Além disso, os modelos de Cavalcanti-Mata e Valcam representaram de forma preditiva e precisa o comportamento dos dados experimentais em todas as temperaturas avaliadas. Por fim, a partir dos parâmetros termodinâmicos, foi possível afirmar que o processo de desidratação é endotérmico e não ocorre de forma espontânea.
OTIMIZAÇÃO DE PROTOCOLO DE EXTRAÇÃO ETANÓLICA DE POLISSACARÍDEOS CONTIDOS EM DIFERENTES SEMENTES DE PLANTAS
Authors: LEAL Makyson Roberto Silva , SOARES Paulo Antônio Galindo , LIMA Claudia Sampaio de Andrade , YARA Ricardo , ALBUQUERQUE Priscilla Barbosa Sales de
Published: May 2021

O interesse crescente pelo desenvolvimento de produtos de origem biológica, que utilizem tecnologias de processamento que possam diminuir a dependência social por produtos sintéticos, tem incentivado a prospecção de polímeros naturais. Polissacarídeos são biopolímeros que apresentam propriedades interessantes a uma série de aplicações biotecnológicas, especialmente por serem biodegradáveis, biocompatíveis e de baixa ou nenhuma toxicidade. O processamento de polissacarídeos a nível industrial, porém, requer inúmeras etapas prévias; dentre elas, a extração é considerada fator determinante para a obtenção de um bom rendimento e a possível replicação em escala industrial. Este trabalho teve como objetivo otimizar a metodologia de extração de polissacarídeos proposta por Albuquerque et al., (2014) para os polissacarídeos das sementes de Morinda citrifolia (Polinoni) e Senna occidentalis (Polimanji). A extração foi realizada por precipitação etanólica, centrifugação e lavagens com etanol e acetona; em seguida, foram calculados os rendimentos de extração e a concentração total de carboidratos. Finalmente, a natureza polissacarídica dos biopolímeros foi analisada por FT-IR. Polimanji e Polinoni foram extraídos com 19,84 ± 1,19 % e 5,63 ± 1,59 % de rendimento e apresentaram concentração de carboidratos totais de 3,25 ± 0,17 mg/mL e 6,66 ± 0,20 mg/mL, respectivamente. O FT-IR apresentou picos de absorção característicos de polissacarídeos para ambos os biopolímeros. Os resultados obtidos indicam que a otimização do protocolo extrativo desponta como uma técnica eficiente na extração de polissacarídeos contidos em sementes de plantas por se adequar às características de cada substrato, além de apresentar baixo custo e duração quando comparado a outros métodos.
Hyperhomocysteinaemia among Acute Ischaemic Stroke Patients in a Tertiary Care Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gopalakrishna Deepa , Gopinathan Rupa , Beegum Saboora , Iype Thomas
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Over the last three decades, prevalence of stroke has been high in India, while the Western countries have witnessed a downward slide. Epidemiological studies suggest that hyperhomocysteinaemia might be a potentially modifiable nonlipid risk factor associated with stroke, in addition to the long-recognized factors like hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia and smoking. Hyperhomocysteinaemia occurs due to deviation in the metabolic pathway of methionine, attributed by deficiency of vitamins, enzymes and other factors. The present study was undertaken to assess the proportion of hyperhomocysteinaemia in patients with acute ischemic stroke. We also compared the risk factors associated with stroke and serum levels of homocysteine. METHODS This is a cross sectional observational study conducted in a tertiary care hospital. The sample size was 140. Both male and female consecutive patients of age more than 18 years, with first attack of acute ischaemic stroke admitted in the Department of Neurology were selected. Baseline fasting serum samples were obtained for testing serum homocysteine levels. Statistical tests used were proportion, chi square and logistic regression. RESULTS Among 140 acute ischaemic stroke patients, total homocysteine level was raised in 83.6 % cases. The prevalence of moderate hyperhomocysteinaemia in our study was 65.4 % and intermediate hyperhomocysteinaemia was 17.9 % among stroke patients. The mean (± SD) homocysteine level was 22.75 (± 8.19). CONCLUSIONS A strong association was found between hyperhomocysteinaemia and acute ischaemic stroke. We could not find any significant correlation between total homocysteine level and most risk factors of stroke. KEYWORDS Stroke, Homocysteine, Risk Factors, Endothelial Dysfunction, Atherosclerosis, B Vitamins
A Cross Sectional Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding COVID-19 among Students in a Medical College in North India
Authors: Gangadharan Vandana , Koshy George , Koshy Varghese , Upadhyay Mahua , Bobdey Saurabh
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Human coronavirus (HCoV), 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), was found in Wuhan, China, which has been responsible for an immense amount of morbidity and mortality world over. In India like in most parts of the world the fight against COVID-19 is an ongoing challenge. People’s adherence of the prevention measures is essential for controlling the spread of COVID-19, which is affected by their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards COVID-19. It has been established since the very onset of the pandemic that COVID-19 transmission between individuals occurs most importantly through direct contact as well as by droplets spread by coughing or sneezing of an individual who is infected. Therefore, the key to control of the disease lies having knowledge and adoption of preventive practices. Hence, the study was planned with the objective to assess knowledge, attitude and practice of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) among students in a medical college. METHODS This was a cross-sectional web-based study. A questionnaire designed on the basis of published literature and Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines was distributed online amongst students in a Medical College in North India. The mean knowledge, attitude, practices as well as demographics of the participants were assessed and scores were assigned for the same. Higher scores represented a better knowledge of COVID-19. Statistical analysis was carried out using Mann Whitney U test for gender and Kruskal Wallis test for age category. RESULTS Out of the total students with a non-response rate of 3 %, 398 participants responded, out of whom 54.52 % were males and majority (62.31 %) of the participants were in the age group of 21 - 23 years. Most of the participants were well aware about the modes of spread, main clinical symptoms and precautionary measures required for the prevention of COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS The levels of knowledge, attitude and practices were found to be positively adequate amongst most of the participants. Although encouraging, it needs to be reemphasized that continued emphasis on increasing knowledge, attitude and practices towards prevention of coronavirus disease is the key in containing this escalating pandemic. KEYWORDS Covid-19, Medical Students, Pandemic, North India
Cutaneous Manifestations of Diabetes Mellitus in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bengaluru – A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: K Kavana , B.C Sharath Kumar
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND “Skin is a mirror of internal diseases”. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder that needs considerations of many different specialities but the importance of dermatologist’s knowledge has not drawn much attention. As a result, we intend to study various cutaneous manifestation of diabetes mellitus. Prior to diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, patient may present with cutaneous manifestation. Thus, it can help in early diagnosis, management and prevention of complication and help in improvement of quality of life. METHODS This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. A total of 500 diabetic patients with cutaneous manifestations, who attended skin outpatient department (OPD) at Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital and Research Centre, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, were evaluated. Detailed history was taken along with physical and mucocutaneous examination. Cutaneous manifestations, general description of diabetes mellitus like duration, type, and drug history as well as the demographic data were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Among a total of 500 diabetes mellitus subjects, the most common cutaneous manifestations were infections (35 %) followed by pruritus (11 %). Among infections, tinea infections (48.29 %) were the most common followed by intertrigo (21 %). CONCLUSIONS The ignorance of skin manifestations in diabetes or improper treatment may worsen the condition. Early detection and treatment of common skin manifestations in diabetes will prevent further complications especially in cases of extensive tinea corporis, pruritus, psoriasis, lichen planus, macro and micro angiopathies, trophic ulcers etc. KEYWORDS Cutaneous manifestations, Diabetes mellitus
Dexmedetomidine and Clonidine as an Adjuvant to Intrathecal Bupivacaine on Spinal Block Characteristic in Gynaecological Procedures - A Prospective Randomised Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Study
Authors: L.R.N.N. Paidikondala , Krishna Kommula Gopala , Surabattula Harika , N. Nagalakshmi
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Clonidine and dexmedetomidine are two α-2 adrenergic receptor agonists which have been used as an adjuvant to intrathecal local anaesthetics. Both drugs act by different mechanisms and potentiate the effect of each other. The purpose of the study was to assess the efficacy and safety of adding clonidine and dexmedetomidine to intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine on spinal block characteristics in gynaecological procedures. METHODS This study was conducted as a prospective comparative, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial. Based on exclusion and inclusion criteria, 90 patients were included in this study by using a computer generated randomization. Patients were randomly divided into three groups each as follows: Gr BD: 0.5 % hyperbaric bupivacaine (3.5 ml) + 3 μg preservative free dexmedetomidine (total volume of 4 ml), group BC: 0.5 % hyperbaric bupivacaine (3.5 ml) + 0.5 ml clonidine (30 μg) (total volume of 4 ml), group BN (control): 3.5 ml of 0.5 % hyperbaric bupivacaine + same volume normal saline. The spinal block characteristics, hemodynamic stability, and side effects were compared. RESULTS Time to reach sensory block to T10 was 2.52 ± 0.33 minutes in group BN, 1.95 ± 0.38 ms in gr BC and 1.53 ± 0.24 minutes in group BD. The span of sensory block was longer in group BD in comparison to group BC (453.76 ± 52.78 v 389.36 ± 37.4) and group BN (453.76 ± 52.78 vs. 173.33 ± 14.56). Time for rescue analgesia was 169.12 ± 21.14 minutes in group BN, 245.21 ± 32.42 minutes in group BC and 289 ± 24 minutes in group BD. CONCLUSIONS When α-2 adrenergic receptor agonist is used intrathecally with bupivacaine, early motor and sensory block can be achieved along with long span of analgesia. KEYWORDS Bupivacaine, Dexmedetomidine, Clonidine, Spinal Anaesthesia
CD44 and E-Cadherin Expression in Primary Epithelial Tumours of Ovary and Comparison with Histological Type and Tumour Differentiation - A Cross-Sectional Study from Thrissur, Kerala
Authors: Valliapoyil Dhanya , Thodiyil Jisha Kalathil , Jose Lovely
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Ovarian tumours are the common cause of morbidity and mortality in women worldwide. Primary epithelial ovarian tumours comprise the majority. Cluster differentiation 44 (CD-44) is a trans-membrane glycoprotein which plays a role in cell- cell interaction, adhesion and migration, leading to the progression and metastasis of tumour. E-cadherin is another cell adhesion molecule which plays an important role in neoplastic progression. So, it is necessary to find out the relationship of CD-44 and E-cadherin expression with histological types and tumour differentiation, which might predict the prognosis. The present study was undertaken to assess the pattern of expression of CD-44 and E-cadherin in primary epithelial tumours of ovary and to determine the relationship between their expression with age, histological type and tumour differentiation. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study conducted in the Department of Pathology, Government Medical College, Thrissur; a tertiary care institution. Histological types and tumour differentiation for each case was determined from haematoxylin and eosin sections. Immunohistochemical stain for CD-44 and E-cadherin was done. Pattern of expression was studied and a semi quantitative score was calculated. Expression of both markers was then compared with the age, histological type and tumour differentiation. RESULTS Out of 57 cases studied, majority of the patients had serous (21 cases) or mucinous tumours (20 cases). The mean age group was 54.5 years. CD-44 expression was significantly correlated with tumour differentiation but there was no correlation found with age and histological type. In E-cadherin expression, there was no correlation with age, histological type and tumour differentiation. CONCLUSIONS For primary epithelial tumours, expression of CD-44 could be an indicator for tumour progression, invasiveness or distant metastasis. Poorly differentiated tumours with increased expression may be helpful in predicting disease progression. Target therapy can be employed in such cases. In case of E-cadherin which is said to be a prognostic marker, more studies help in bridging the gap between prognosis and outcome. KEYWORDS CD-44, E-cadherin, Immunohistochemistry, Epithelial Ovarian Tumours f
Clinical and Socio-Demographic Profile of Poisoning Cases - A Retrospective Study from Dharwad, Karnataka
Authors: Patil Neelkant S. , Aithal Shodhan Raghuram , Gururaj Hemamalini
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND Poisoning is a major healthcare issue in our country. There is a recent increase in trend of non-OP compound usage. We wanted to study the socio-demographic, and clinical profile in terms of outcome with different poisons. METHODS A total of 100 patients were included in this retrospective study conducted in tertiary care hospital in Northern Karnataka. Data was collected and analysed using pre-structured questionnaire regarding demographic details, mode of poisoning, precipitating factors, duration of hospitalization, and final outcome. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test were done to find the association between the two attributes. Odds ratio was also calculated. P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS Mean age of the study population was 31.48 years. Majority of the study population was females (63 %, N = 63), homemakers or students (32 % each), illiterates (68 %) and married (62 %). Mode of poisoning was suicidal in 78 % of the patients. Among the compounds used for poisoning, non-OP compoundespecially pharmaceutical drugs accounted for 40 % of the cases. Mean duration of hospital stay was 5 days and 16 % had prolonged hospitalisation. Family fight, depression, and consumption of ethanol at the time of poisoning were the common precipitating factors. Mortality was 3 %. Homemakers and students (χ2 = 4.33, df = 1, OR = 3.33, 95 % CI = 1.02-10.7, P < 0.05), unmarried individuals (χ2 = 5.31, df = 1, OR = 3.75, 95 % CI = 1.16 - 12.1, P < 0.05) and teetotallers (χ2 = 18.94, df =1, OR=11, 95 % CI = 3.26 - 37, P < 0.05) had higher proportion of non-OP compound consumption and this was statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Educational awareness and regulation of drug availability over the counter, to prevent such emergencies, is essential. Awareness of good mental health and support systems has to be publicised to prevent the precipitating factors. KEYWORDS Poisoning, Drug Overdose, OP Compound, India
AN EXAMINATION OF THE IMPACT OF ETHICAL LEADERSHIP ON INDIVIDUAL CREATIVITY AND ORGANIZATIONAL INNOVATIONS IN THE ICT INDUSTRY IN VIETNAM
Authors: Arokiasamy Anantha Raj A. , Moslehpour Massoud
Published: May 2021

Purpose of the study: In the present study, information was obtained from 245 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) organizations from Vietnam using a market-oriented criterion to assess individual creativity, ethical leadership, and organizational innovation.

Methodology: The absolute, as well as intended influences of ethical leaderships over the creativities along with innovations, were investigated using modelling that is multilevel plus tiered regressions analysis. We also tested the direct and indirect effects of ethical leadership on creativity and innovation using multilevel modelling and hierarchical regression analyses, respectively.

Main Findings: The results showed ethical leadership is a strong indicator of both human and organizational imagination. On the corporate levels, observations suggest that ethical leadership remains closely correlated with organizational innovations. The results also suggest that ethical leadership is an essential method for promoting entrepreneurship and advancing growth in both emerging countries and newly developed industries.

Applications of this study: On the corporate levels, observations suggest that ethical leadership remains closely correlated with organizational innovations.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The study’s key part remains essentially to examine creativity as a possible intermediary in favour of the ethical leadership’s organizational interconnections, in which a markets-focused standard is used as a surrogate for innovations at the organizational level.
ASSESSMENT OF NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF THE FARM FAMILIES WITH SPECIAL FOCUS ON PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN IN PAKISTAN
Authors: Sardar Hussain , Amir Rana Muhammad , Khurshid Ayesha , Raza Hafiz Ali , Manzoor Adeela
Published: May 2021

Purpose of the study: The main purpose of this study was to assess the nutritional status of farm families with a special focus on primary school children in Punjab.

Methodology: This study was conducted in tehsil Jaranwala, Faisalabad. Five villages and two primary schools were selected from each village randomly. From these schools, 323 children whose fathers were farmers were selected as samples. A cross-sectional research design was used for the present study. In this context, an interview schedule was prepared and face-to-face interviews were administered to collect the required data.

Main Findings: The chi-square analysis confirmed that education, and income of parents associated factors had a statistically significant (P<0.05) and positive correlation with BMI. Descriptive statistics indicated poverty was ranked 1st among reasons for malnutrition followed by inappropriate dietary choices and unavailability of healthy foods with mean values of 4.25 and 4.11, respectively. Whereas, children don't want to come to school due to poor health" was ranked 1st in all effects of poor health with a mean value of 4.50.

Applications of the study: This study has highlighted the importance of the nutritional status of primary school-going children and also investigates the different factors that inverse impact on their health. This study will be proved helpful among farm families by creating awareness about the nutrition of children. Based on the findings of this study, the urge to the government to take steps to improve the literacy level and build strategies to improve the awareness level of mothers about the nutrition of children, especially in rural areas.

 The novelty of the Study: This is the first study that investigates the assessment of the nutritional status of school-going children of farm families in Punjab, Pakistan especially in tehsil Jaranwala, Faisalabad.
Sorption of Cobalt and Nickel on Narcissus Tazetta L. Leaf Powder
Authors: İNAN Süleyman , ÖZKAN Bekir
Published: May 2021

Narcissus tazetta Linnaeus are grown in the Karaburun district of the Agean Region in Turkey in large quantities. The flower has an economic value; however, the leaves of the plant are of no use. Within this study's scope, sorption behaviors of Narcissus tazetta L. leaf powder against cobalt and nickel ions were investigated by batch experiments. The effects of initial pH, contact time, initial metal concentration, temperature, and biosorbent dosage were examined using one-factor-at-a-time method. Maximum sorption capacities for Co(II) and Ni(II) were 43.48 and 35.97 mg g-1, respectively. The biosorption process is fast, and the equilibrium was attained in 15 min. for Co(II) and Ni(II). Data fit the pseudo-second-order kinetic model well for both metal ions. Thermodynamic parameters reveal that the biosorption is exothermic and spontaneous. Narcissus tazetta L. Leaf powder is a readily available, costless, and promising biomaterial that can be used to separate Co(II) and Ni(II) ions from an aqueous solution.
Book Review--Undergraduate Research Abroad: Approaches, Models, and Challenges
Authors:   Defiance College, Studer Mary Ann
Published: May 2021

The strength of Undergraduate Research Abroad: Approaches, Models, and Challenges ed Kate H. Patch and Louis M. Berends lies in the organization of the text and heterogeneous approach in considering international research by undergraduates, making the work valuable to faculty and administrators regardless of their level of experience in this area. Central themes are student learning, partnerships, faculty collaborations, mentorship, trust, quality, ethics, and preparation.
The Kungullanji Program: Creating an Undergraduate Research Experience to Raise Aspirations of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students in the Sciences
Authors:   Griffith University, Campbell Jennifer Leigh , Chang Sushila
Published: May 2021

The Kungullanji Summer Research Program offers research experiences for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander undergraduates while recognizing their contributions to research. The Kungullanji program approach is a strengths-based research training framework that recognizes existing ability outside of institutional definitions of success and adapts to student needs with multilayered support. Initial results suggest that this approach increases students’ self-confidence and interest.
Positive Predictive Value of Diabetes Risk Assessment as a Screening Test
Authors: Binazir Maryam Baradaran
Published: May 2021

There is a long asymptomatic duration in which the type 2 diabetes can be diagnosed and a considerable percentage of persons with type 2 diabetes are undetected. So, it is important to evaluate diabetes screening tests. The aim of this study was evaluating risk assessment as a screening test. A cross-sectional study was done in four villages of Ajabshir, one of East Azerbaijan ‘s cities in Iran. The total population of the four villages, namely shiraz, Razyan, Nasna, and Pesyn was 4058. 2370 people were more than 30years old in these villages. Out of 1207 people, who had at least one risk factor, 67 persons were diabetics or prediabetics. The PPV of the risk factor assessment was 5.4%, so the ability of the risk factor assessment to predict individuals with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes was significantly poor.
Positioning Regarding Type 2 Diabetes Reversibility under Unconventional Treatment. What about Genetic and Vitamin Status of Patients?
Authors: Youssouf Belazzouz Abderrahmen
Published: May 2021

A great controversy has emerged recently regarding the effectiveness of unconventional therapies such as: bariatric surgery, intermittent fasting and their ability to cure type 2 diabetes versus the conventional approaches that accompany diabetic patient throughout his life with the need for a therapeutic escalation. Nevertheless, three facts are missing in this approach, the first is the little step back with it especially on the cardiovascular prognosis and the second is the application on pathology such as type2 diabetes so heterogeneous that the therapeutic response can’t be extrapolates. Finally, what is the frequency and severity of subsequent recurrences of diabetes? And will this approach still be as effective? Hence the interest of taking into account two essential aspects before starting this process, the genetic status that modulates the therapeutic response whether for the classical or contemporary approach and which will be necessary to establish a score in order to select the responders to this approach. And vitamin status especially since this new therapeutic method is based primarily on weight loss and all that goes with vitamin losses that may trigger a cascade of subclinical atherosclerosis maintained despite the reversibility of diabetes.
SGLT2 Inhibitors for Treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Mikhail Nasser
Published: May 2021

Background: Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) are medications approved for treatment of type 2 diabetes. Recent evidence suggests that these agents exert Reno protective effects. Methods: Review of literature (English, French, Spanish) from January 1990 to November 10, 2019. Searching terms include sodium-glucose co-transporters 2 inhibitors (SGLT2) inhibitors, chronic kidney disease (CKD), end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Randomized trials, meta-analysis, expert opinions and guidelines are also reviewed. Results: The effects of canagliflozin on renal events were evaluated in patients with type 2 diabetes and albuminuric diabetic nephropathy already on renin-angiotensin (RAS) blockade. The primary outcome was a composite of the incidence of ESKD, doubling of serum creatinine, renal or cardiovascular (CV) death. Canagliflozin was associated with 30% reduction in the incidence of this primary outcome [hazard ratio (HR) 0.70, 95% CI 0.59-0.82, P=0.00001)]. Similar results were generally reported in large CV trials of canagliflozin, empagliflozin and dapagliflozin although renal events were secondary or post-hoc outcomes. Renoprotection by SGLT2 inhibitors was observed in patients with different degrees of renal function at baseline, with or without albuminuria, and taking or not RAS blockers. SGLT2 inhibitors were generally safe with drug discontinuation rates similar to placebo. Canagliflozin was tolerated in patients with eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2. The incidence of acute renal injury was numerically less frequent with SGLT2 inhibitors compared with placebo. Conclusions: SGLT2 inhibitors slow progression of diabetic nephropathy and should be standard of care on top of RAS blockers for renal protection in patients with type 2 diabetes. Regulatory authorities should consider allowing using canagliflozin 100 mg/d in patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between 30-45 ml/min/1.73 m2./p>
Medical Nutrition Therapy for Type-2 Diabetes
Authors: Cheema Gulfam Ahmad
Published: May 2021

Medical nutrition therapy remains the cornerstone in chronic disease management, apart from medication and regular physical activity. Various clinical practice guidelines and position papers from worldwide associations have incorporated specific nutrition recommendations in managing chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, gout and chronic renal failure, which aim to prevent further complications or other co-morbidities arise from these chronic medical conditions. In addition, specific issues such as carbohydrate exchange, glycaemic index and glycaemic load for people with diabetes; DASH diet for hypertensive individuals, latest concerns on trans-fat, the usage of plant sterol and soluble fibre in enhancing lipid lowering will also be addressed in this article.
Central Obesity and Stress- Predisposing Factors to Hypertension among Health Workers in Jos University Teaching Hospital, Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: Olaitan Oluwasiji O
Published: May 2021

Central obesity poses more threat to human health than general obesity and stress increases its presentation. This study assessed prevalence of central obesity and stress, and their association with hypertension. Two hundred and eighty-three health workers in Jos Teaching Hospital, Plateau State, Nigeria were randomly selected. Socio-demographic characteristics and lifestyles (physical activity, alcohol intake, smoking and stress) were evaluated by semi-structured and International Stress Management Association Questionnaire. Central obesity was determined by waist circumference.
Telemedicine and ethics: opportunities in India
Authors: Aneja Jitender , Arora Sonam
Published: May 2021

Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, telemedicine was an upcoming modality of diagnosis and treatment, but was limited by inadequate guidelines and legislation. Now, during the pandemic, policy makers worldwide have found it prudent to set forth new telemedicine guidelines to ease and regulate operations. The Government of India, along with the Board of Governors (in supercession of the Medical Council of India), amended the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956, and published the Telemedicine Practice Guidelines in 2020 to lay down a framework for telemedicine practice in our country. This step will provide a medico-legal context for the delivery of online health services. However, the Guidelines in their present form only partly address the ethical aspects of telemedicine in India. Here, we briefly describe these Guidelines and highlight the ethical concerns surrounding the teleconsultation process in our country. We also suggest possible solutions to these ethical issues surrounding the practice of telemedicine.
Uganda Mountain Community Health System Perspectives and Capacities Towards Emerging Infectious Disease Surveillance
Authors: Siya Aggrey , Mafigiri Richardson , Migisha Richard , Kading Rebekah C.
Published: May 2021

In mountain communities like Sebei, Uganda, that are highly vulnerable to emerging and reemerging infectious diseases, community-based surveillance plays an important role in the monitoring of public health hazards. In this survey, we explored capacities of Village Health Teams (VHTs) in Sebei communities of Mount Elgon in undertaking surveillance tasks for emerging and reemerging infectious diseases in the context of a changing climate. We used participatory epidemiology techniques to elucidate VHTs’ perceptions on climate change and public health and assess their capacities in conducting surveillance for emerging and reemerging infectious diseases. Overall, VHTs perceived climate change to be occurring with wider impacts on public health. However, they have inadequate capacities in collecting sur-veillance data. The VHTs lack transport to navigate through their communities and have in-sufficient capacities in using mobile phones for sending alerts. They do not engage in reporting other hazards related with the environment, wildlife and domestic livestock that would ac-celerate infectious disease outbreaks. Records are not maintained for disease surveillance ac-tivities and the abilities of VHTs to analyze data are also limited. However, VHTs have access to platforms that can enable them to disseminate public health information. The VHTs thus need to be retooled to conduct their work effectively and efficiently through equipping them with adequate logistics and knowledge on collecting, storing, analyzing, and relaying data, which will improve infectious disease response and mitigation efforts.
Tarqiyat Natā’ij al-Ta‘allum fī Māddat al-Lughah al-‘Arabīyah bi-Istikhdām Uslūb al-Thawāb wa-al-‘Iqāb
Authors: Bin Abdul Hakim Muhammad Kamal , Failasuf Chakam , Mauliadana Lulu
Published: May 2021

This study aims to determine the improvement of Arabic learning outcomes using rewards and punishments. The research used an action research method by Kemmis and McTaggart model and was carried out in two cycles. The research subjects were grade 7 students of SMP Muhammadiyah 3 Jakarta, totaling 36 students including 19 male students and 17 female students. The instruments used tested learning outcomes and observation sheets. Learning outcome tests are used to measure the success of students in understanding Arabic lessons. Meanwhile, the observation sheet is used to measure the performance of teachers and students in learning. The scores that have been achieved by the students during the study are the pre-cycle score is 65,83, the exam score for cycle 1 is 66,80, and the exam score for cycle 2 is 75,69. There was an increase in the value from the pretest to the test cycle 1, namely 0,99, and the increase from cycle 1 to cycle 2 is 8,89. The number of improvement results in this study was 9,88. By using reward and punishment, students are more active in learning and can relate the subject matter to the surrounding environment and practice it directly in the classroom.
Power Splitting and Source-Relay Selection in Energy Harvesting Wireless Network
Authors: jiang xiao , Li Peng , wang ruchuan
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we consider an energy-harvesting (EH) relay network composing of multiple sources, a destination and multiple EH decode-and-forward (DF) relays. The EH relays all equip with a power splitter to divide the received signal power into two parts, one for information decoding and the remaining for signal relaying. The power splitting ratio (PSR) depicts the trade-off between the relaying energy and decoding energy. We propose an optimal power splitting and joint source-relay selection (OPS-JSRS) scheme where the optimal power-splitting ratio is obtained and the best source-relay pair is selected to transmit the message. For the purpose of comparison, we examine the optimal power splitting and round-robin (OPS-RR) scheme and the traditional power splitting and joint source-relay selection (TPS-JSRS) scheme. The exact and asymptotic closed-form expressions of outage probability for OPS-RR, TPS-JSRS and OPS-JSRS schemes are derived. Numerical results show that OPS-JSRS scheme is better than OPS-RR and TPS-JSRS schemes in terms of outage probability, explaining the superiority of the proposed OPS-JSRS scheme. Additionally, outage probability performance of OPS-JSRS scheme can be improved by increasing the number of sources and relays.
Influence of Body Mass Index on Mechanical Properties in People With Obesity
Authors: Usgu Serkan , Ramazanoğlu Engin , Yakut Yavuz
Published: May 2021

Background: The study was to determine influence of body mass index on muscular mechanical properties in people with obesity.Methods: A total of 172 participants (86 males and females, mean age; 26.00±5.45 years) were participated. The participants were assigned in groups base on BMI classification (normal (BMI=18.50-24.99 kg/m2), overweight (BMI=25.00-29.99 kg/m2). The biceps brachii (BB), biceps femoris (BF) were measured bilaterally using the "MyotonPRO" device. Results: Bilateral BB and BF stiffness, and BB elasticity were found significantly difference between normal and overweight group in all participant comprasion (p<0.05). Also the only left BB tone was found different (p<0.05) while other mechanical parameters found similar (p>0.05). In sex based BMI sub-categories; the bilaterally BB and BF stiffness and BF tone were found higher, and only the right BB elasticity was decreased in overweight male group (p<0.05). While the other mechanical parameters were found similar (p<0.05). The right BB stiffness and elasticity were found higher in overweight female group (p<0.05). No statistical difference was found in other parameters for female comparison (p>0.05).A weak positive correlation was found between the right-left BB tone and stiffness and BMI. Also, a weak positive correlation was revealed between the right BB elasticity (p<0.05). No correlation was determined in other mechanical paramaters (p>0.05).Conclusions: The bilateral BB and BF stiffness increased and BB elasticity decreased as BMI increased. The BB and BF mechanical properties were affected more in males than females when BMI considered.
Synthesis of Gelatin-Cellulose Nanocrystals Hydrogel Membrane For Removal of Cu (II) And Co (II) From Mining Processes Wastewater
Authors: Kabuba John , Lukusa Trésor
Published: May 2021

This study describes the removal of Cu (II) and Co (II) ions from mining processes wastewater using synthesis of Gelatin-cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) hydrogel membrane (GCHM). In a batch experiment, the influence of different parameters such as pH, contact time, temperature, and ratio of gelatin and CNCs was evaluated. Higher removal efficiency was obtained at ratio 3 ÷ 1 and at pH 5 and 7 for Cu (II) and Co (II), respectively, and a contact time of 120 mins and a temperature of 30°C. The experimental data fitted satisfactory to Freundlich isotherm model. The adsorption of metal ions has been fit by the particle diffusion model. The results revealed that gelatin and CNCs were identified as the low-cost and promising adsorption material for the removal of heavy metals from wastewater.
Prospective Analysis of Myocardial Strain Through The Evolution of Chagas Disease In The Hamster Animal Model
Authors: Ribeiro Fernando F.F. , Moreira Henrique T. , Filho Antônio L.C. Barros , Tanaka Denise M. , Fabricio Camila G. , Oliveira Luciano F.L. , Prado Cibele M. , Simoes Marcus V. , Schmidt Andre , Maciel Benedito C. , Marin-Neto Jose A. , R Minna M.D.
Published: May 2021

Background: Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) enables early diagnosis of myocardial damage by evaluating myocardial strain. We aimed to study sequential changes in structural and ventricular functional parameters during Chagas disease (CD) natural history in an animal model. Methods: 37 Syrian hamsters were inoculated intraperitoneally with Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas) and 20 with saline (Control). Echocardiography was performed before the infection (baseline), at 1month (acute phase), 4, 6, and 8 months (chronic phase) using Vevo 2100 (Fujifilm Inc.) ultrasound system. Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), end-systolic diameter (LVESD), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), global longitudinal (GLS), circumferential (GCS) and radial (GRS) strain were evaluated. Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) was used to assess right ventricular function. At 8 months, animals were euthanized and LV myocardial samples were analyzed for quantitation of inflammation and fibrosis. Results: LVEF decreased over time in Chagas group and a difference from Control was detected at 6 months (p-value of groups#time interaction = 0.005). There was a pronounced decrease in GLS, GCS and TAPSE in Chagas group (p-value of groups#time interaction = 0.003 for GLS, < 0.001 for GCS and < 0.009 for TAPSE vs Control) since the first month. LVESD, LVEF and GLS were significantly correlated to the number of inflammatory cells (r= 0.41, p=0.046; r= -0.42, p=0.042; r=0.41, p=0.047) but not to fibrosis. Conclusions: In the Syrian hamster model of CD STE parameters (GLS and GCS) showed an early decrease. Changes in LVEF, LVESD, and GLS were correlated to myocardial inflammation but not to fibrosis.
Bidirectional Energy-based Pushover Procedure as a Fast Approach to Establish Approximate IDA Curves under Biaxial Seismic Excitations: An Evaluation for Medium- and High-rise Buildings
Authors: Soleimani Sahman , Moghadam Abdolreza Sarvghad , Aziminejad Armin
Published: May 2021

Bidirectional energy-based pushover (BEP) procedure is expanded in this paper to predict approximate incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) results of medium- and high-rise structures. BEP is a unique approach in the sense that it provides approximate IDA curves under the simultaneous effect of two horizontal components of ground motions and is applicable to both symmetric- and asymmetric-plan buildings. The method has already proved to be useful in low-rise buildings, and this study aims to evaluate its suitability for mid- and high-rise structures. Six structural models were considered in this evaluation in two groups of 9- and 20-story buildings, with each group consisting of a symmetric, a one-way asymmetric, and a two-way asymmetric-plan building. The results revealed that the method was sufficiently accurate to provide approximate IDA curves for all structural models. The method had similar accuracy in the asymmetric models as it did in the symmetric models, although the accuracy slightly decreased as the height of the building increased. BEP also provided good estimates of the demands in both ‘flexible’ and ‘stiff sides’ of the asymmetric buildings as well as the demands over the height of the buildings.
Measuring Economic, Social and Environmental Wellbeing of Asian Economies
Authors: Sharmin Mowshumi , Dey Sima Rani , Islam Tariqul
Published: May 2021

This study aims to address the economic, social and environmental wellbeing issues simultaneously by measuring the carbon intensity of wellbeing (CIWB) of Asian economies employing Prais-Winsten and pooled OLS estimator. The measure of carbon intensity of wellbeing (CIWB) is made taking into account a ratio of the two indicators-CO2 emissions per capita and life expectancy at birth. There is paucity of studies that concentrate on human and social wellbeing indicators (i.e., water, sanitation, life expectancy) together applying Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis. Therefore, we have also investigated the EKC hypothesis as this theory hypothesizes the link involving human and environmental wellbeing and development. The findings utilizing the two econometric techniques indicate that in both the estimation models urban population access to an improved water source and total population access to improved water source has consistently negative and significant effects on CIWB. The fertility rate and prevalence of HIV poses no threat to CIWB. These findings demonstrate that social and human wellbeing indicators of the Asian economies are sustainable to this moment as they are lowering CIWB which is desirable. Contrary, GDP per capita, exports as a percent of GDP and urban population have a significant and positive impact on CIWB which pose a challenge for the sustainability issue. We also have found the existence of EKC hypothesis indicating environmental quality will increase past a turning point. The findings of the paper are well matched with the view of ‘Economic and ecological modernization’ theory and ‘human ecology’ theory.JEL Classification: Q54; Q56; R11
Evaluation of Re-analyses Over China based on the Temporal Asymmetry of Daily Temperature Variability
Authors: Chai Wenmi , Huang Yu , Yang Lichao , Quan Heng , Fu Zuntao
Published: May 2021

As an intrinsic feature of daily surface air temperature (SAT) variability found in station measurements, temporal asymmetry (TA) can be taken as an evaluation metric to access the quality of SAT re-analysis product. In this study, TA calculated from four SAT variables, i.e. daily mean SAT (Tmean), daily maximum SAT (Tmax), daily minimum SAT (Tmin) and diurnal temperature range (TDTR=Tmax-Tmin), is applied to evaluate synoptic-scale performance of four reanalysis products (NCEP-2, JRA-55, ERA-I and ERA-5) over China. The results show that four re-analyses overall overestimate the TA of daily Tmax and Tmin variability over China, but with a comparatively consistent estimated TA for Tmean. Moreover, the TA of Tmean variability for these four re-analyses shares high spatial consistency with those from the observation. However, four re-analyses own the similar region-dependent spatial patterns of overestimated TA for Tmax and Tmin variability, especially for Tmax. Since high TA is an indicator for strong nonlinear feature, only Tmean reanalysis is the most suitable to explore synoptic-scale extreme events, such as heat waves and cold waves, which are highly related to the strong nonlinear processes.
A dimensionless framework for predicting submarine fan morphology
Authors: Wahab Abdul , Hoyal David , Shringarpure Mrugesh , Straub Kyle
Published: May 2021

A remarkable diversity exists in the morphology and dynamics of submarine fans, which influence the transport of microplastics, burial of organic carbon, subsea geo-hazards, and their potential to house geofluids and high-resolution paleo-environmental records. Like river deltas, submarine fan morphology is a product of evolving fluid and sediment transport fields, but unlike their terrestrial counterparts, we lack a unifying framework to predict their morphology. Here, we simplify critical environmental forcings, like regional slopes and sediment properties, through a dimensionless framework defined by the densimetric Froude number (ratio of inertial to gravitational forces) and Rouse number (ratio of settling velocity of sediments to shear velocity) of turbidity currents. We explore this framework by leveraging a depth-averaged numerical model and measure fan rugosity as a proxy for their morphological complexity. We show a systematic increase in rugosity by either increasing the densimetric Froude number or decreasing the Rouse number of the simulated flows. These changes reflect observed gradients in the dynamics of channel migration and help discriminate submarine fans that have the potential to impact global climate through sequestration of organic carbon.
Heat and Cold-related Hospitalization Risk in North-East of Iran: A Time-stratified Case Crossover Design
Authors: Aboubakri Omid , Shoraka Hamid Reza , Ballester Joan , Sharafkhani Rahim
Published: May 2021

Background: This study aimed to estimate hospitalization risk/number attributed to air extreme temperatures using time-stratified case crossover study and distributed lag non-linear model in a region of Iran during 2015-2019.Methods: A time-stratified case crossover design based on aggregated exposure data was used in this study. In order to have no overlap bias in the estimations, a fixed and disjointed window by using one-month strata was used in the design. A conditional Poisson regression model allowing for over dispersion (Quasi-Poisson) was applied into Distributed Lag Non-linear Model (DLNM). Different approaches were applied to estimate Optimum Temperature (OT). In the model, the interaction effect between temperature and humidity was assessed to see if the impact of heat or cold on Hospital Admissions (HAs) are different between different levels of humidity.Results: The cumulative effect of heat during 21 days was not significant and it was the cold that had significant cumulative adverse effect on all groups. While the number of HAs attributed to any ranges of heat, including medium, high, extreme and even all values were negligible, but a large number was attributable to cold values; about 10000 HAs were attributable to all values of cold temperature, of which about 9000 were attributed to medium range and about 1000 and less than 500 were attributed to high and extreme values of cold, respectively.Conclusion: This study highlights the need for interventions in cold seasons by policymakers. The results inform researchers as well as policy makers to address both men and women and elderly when any plan or preventive program is developed in the area under study.