bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-parameter calibration of a UV/Vis spectrometer for online monitoring of sewer systems
Authors: Pacheco Fernández Micaela , Knutz Thorsten , Barjenbruch Matthias
Published: August 2020

UV/Vis spectrometers are powerful tools for online monitoring of wastewater constituents and processes. However, most studies only focus on typical parameters such as chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total suspended solids. This work presents a multi-parameter approach for calibration of a UV/Vis spectrometer for online monitoring of sewer systems. Parameters studied include soluble and total COD, nitrate, ammonium, sulphate and orthophosphate, as well as total dissolved sulphide, bisulphide and hydrogen sulphide, because they are one of the main causes for odour and corrosion in sewer systems. Two calibration methods are compared: multiple linear regression included in the manufacturer's software, and partial least square (PLS) computed using the pls package of the R library. Performance of the methods is evaluated for calibration and validation data sets employing four different criteria: relative root mean square error (RMSErel), RMSE-observations standard deviation ratio, Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency and percentage bias. A method-parameter dependency was revealed during the calibration phase but, when predicting new data, the PLS method showed higher robustness for almost all parameters. Both methods were able to predict concentration trends associated with sewer processes, some of which are strongly correlated to the sulphide species.
Exploring Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in ITGAV for Gastric, Pancreatic and Liver Malignancies: An Approach Towards the Discovery of Biomarker
Authors: Bhattacharya Shreya , Sah Pragati Prasad , Banerjee Arundhati , Ray Sujay
Published: August 2020

Background:

Integrin αV, encoded by ITGAV gene, is one of the most studied protein
subunits, closely associated with liver, pancreatic and stomach cancer progression and metastasis
via regulation of angiogenesis. The occurrence of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in cancer-
associated proteins is a key determinant for varied susceptibility of an individual towards cancer.

Methodology:

The study investigated the deleterious effects of these cancer-associated SNPs on
the protein’s structure, stability and cancer causing potential using an in silico approach. Numerous
computational tools were employed that identified the most deleterious cancer-associated SNPs
and those to get actively involved in post-translational modifications. The impact of these SNPs on
the protein structure, function and stability was also examined.

Conclusion and Future Scope:

A total 63 non-synonymous SNPs in ITGAV gene were observed
to be associated in these three gastrointestinal cancers and among this, 63, 19 were the most deleterious
ones. The structural and functional importance of residues altered by most damaging SNPs
was analyzed through evolutionary conservation and solvent accessibility. The study also elucidated
three-dimensional structures of the 19 most damaging mutants. The analysis of conformational
variation identified 5 SNPs (D379Y, G188E, G513V, L950P, and R540L) in integrin αV, which influence
the protein’s structure. Three calcium binding sites were predicted at residues: D379, G384
and G408 and a peptide binding site at residue: R369 in integrin αV. Therefore, SNPs D379Y,
G384C, G408R and R369W have the potential to alter the binding properties of the protein. Screening
and characterization of deleterious SNPs could advance novel biomarker discovery and therapeutic
development in the future.
Combined Treatment with JFKD and Gefitinib Overcomes Drug Resistance in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Huang Xiaoming , Sun Jingchun , Sun Jianli
Published: August 2020

Background:

Gefitinib is an important drug used to treat Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
(NSCLC) with EGFR activating mutations, but drug resistance restricts its clinical application. In this
present study, combined Jin Fu Kang Decoction (JFKD) and gefitinib showed specific cytotoxicity to
gefitinib-resistant cancer cells (PC-9/gef).

Objective:

This study aimed to decipher the molecular mechanism of the JFKD on drug resistance
when used together with Gefitinib and to find the contributing bio-active substance(s) in JFKD based
on the putative mechanism.

Methods:

To investigate the combined effect of gefitinib and JFKD, in vitro experiments were conducted
on the established gefitinib-resistant PC-9 subclone, while in vivo experiments were conducted
on the BALB/c nude mice with PC-9/gef xenografts. Western blot was used to evaluate the protein expression,
and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) coupled with quadrupole time-offlight
Mass Spectrometry (MS) was used to detect the bio-active compounds of JFKD.

Results:

The expression of the PTEN-relevant protein p-EGFR, p-Akt in vitro was inhibited more
when combined JKFD and gefitinib were used, whereas the activities of PDCD4 and PTEN were increased;
remarkably, in vivo experiments showed enhanced tumor growth inhibition when treated with
this combination. Due to this combination, the effect on the gefitinib-resistant cell line, one of the
JFKD-induced anti-cancer mechanisms, was found. To link the putative mechanism and the anticancer
compounds in JFKD, 14 saponins and flavonoids were detected.

Conclusion:
Characterization of P. aeruginosa Glucose 6- Phosphate Isomerase: A Functional Insight via In-Vitro Activity Study
Authors: Angira Deekshi , Natarajan Nalini , Dedania Samir R. , Patel Darshan H. , Thiruvenkatam Vijay
Published: August 2020

Background:

Glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (G6PI) catalyses the second step in glycolysis
in the reversible interconversion of an aldohexose glucose 6-phosphate, a six membered ring moiety to a
ketohexose, fructose 6-phosphate five membered ring moiety. This enzyme is of utmost importance due
to its multifunctional role like neuroleukin, autocrine motility factor, etc. in various species. G6PI from
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is less explored for its moonlighting properties. These properties can be predicted
by studying the active site conservation of residues and their interaction with the specific ligand.

Methods:

Here, we study the G6PI in a self-inducible construct in bacterial expression system with its
purification using Ni-NTA chromatography. The secondary structure of pure G6PI is estimated using
circular dichroism to further predict the proper folding form of the protein. The bioactivity of the purified
enzyme is quantified using phosphoglucose isomerase colorimetric kit with a value of 12.5 mU/mL.
Differential scanning fluorimetry and isothermal titration calorimetry were employed to monitor the interaction
of G6PI with its competitive inhibitor, erythrose 4-phosphate and calculated the Tm, Kd and
IC50 values. Further, the homology model for the protein was prepared to study the interaction with the
erythrose 4-phosphate. MD simulation of the complex was performed at 100 ns to identify the binding
interactions.

Results:

We identified hydrogen bonds and water bridges dominating the interactions in the active site
holding the protein and ligand with strong affinity.

Conclusion :

G6PI was successfully crystallized and data has been collected at 6Å. We are focused on
improving the crystal quality for obtaining higher resolution data.
Rationale and Design of the ACS-BP Study: Prognostic Value of In-Hospital Blood Pressure and Indices of Atherosclerosis in Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Koumelli Areti , Konstantinou Konstantinos , Kasiakogias Alexandros , Dimitriadis Kyriakos , Leontsinis Ioannis , Mantzouranis Emmanouil , Tolis Elias , Fragkoulis Christos , Ntalakouras Ioannis , Thomopoulos Costas , Tousoulis Dimitrios , Tsioufis Costas
Published: August 2020

Background:

High blood pressure (BP) is a leading risk factor for coronary artery disease
and other major cardiovascular events.

Objective:

Blood pressure variability (BPV), ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI) and ankle-
brachial index (ABI) have been proposed as indices that can improve risk stratification for an adverse
cardiac outcome. However, their utility in the setting of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) is
unclear.

Methods:

The ACS-BP study is a single-centre observational cohort study designed to investigate
the prognostic role of haemodynamic load and arterial stiffness indices for cardio-renal outcomes
in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). All consecutive patients admitted with a diagnosis
of acute AMI with or without ST segment elevation were screened for inclusion in the study.
The management of AMI will follow current guidelines.

Results and Discussion:

Data from baseline clinical and laboratory parameters during their hospitalization
were collected. The haemodynamic load of each patient was determined by clinical BP
values as well as 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring. The AASI was calculated from the raw 24-h BP
data and ABI was measured after the third day of hospitalization using a certified device. Patients
were followed-up for 12 months in order to collect data for hard cardiovascular and renal endpoints.

Conclusion:

The study results should clarify the role of these non-invasive tools in secondary risk
stratification of such patients.
Research Progress of Phase Transfer Catalysts Used in Oxidative Desulfurization of Fuel Oil
Authors: Zhao Jie , Wang Rui
Published: August 2020

The removal of sulfur compounds from fuel oil has been a major concern of the fuel industry.
Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) is the most common desulfurization method currently used in oil
refineries. However, HDS requires high temperature and high pressure conditions, consumption of
hydrogen, and the removal effect of thiophene sulfides is not ideal. In view of defects of HDS, nonhydrodesulfurization
technologies have been developed. Oxidative desulfurization (ODS) is regarded
as the most potential desulfurization technology to replace HDS in industry because of mild operating
conditions and high desulfurization efficiency. However, most ODS reactions are performed in
heterogeneous systems. The common problem is that the oxidant and sulfur-containing compounds
cannot contact effectively. Phase Transfer Catalysts (PTCs) are a class of catalysts that can assist in
the transfer of reactants, thereby increasing mass transfer and accelerating the reaction rate of the
heterogeneous ODS system. In this review, we divide PTCs applied to ODS into quaternary ammonium
salts PTCs, ILs PTCs, polymers PTCs, supported PTCs and reaction-controlled PTCs, and will
systematically introduce and summarize the research progress of PTCs used in ODS system. It is
pointed out that reaction-controlled PTCs have a broad prospect in ODS system. In addition, the synthesis
and recovery of PTCs will be briefly described.
Nanoparticles Based Intranasal Delivery of Drug to Treat Alzheimer’s Disease: A Recent Update
Authors: Pandey Manisha , Choudhury Hira , Verma Rohit Kumar , Chawla Viney , Bhattamisra Subrat Kumar , Gorain Bapi , Raja Maria Abdul Ghafoor , Amjad Muhammad Wahab
Published: August 2020

Alzheimer Association Report (2019) stated that the 6th primary cause of death in the USA
is Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), which leads to behaviour and cognitive impairment. Nearly 5.8 million
peoples of all ages in the USA have suffered from this disease, including 5.6 million elderly populations.
The statistics of the progression of this disease is similar to the global scenario. Still, the treatment
of AD is limited to a few conventional oral drugs, which often fail to deliver an adequate amount
of the drug in the brain. The reduction in the therapeutic efficacy of an anti-AD drug is due to poor
solubility, existence to the blood-brain barrier and low permeability. In this context, nasal drug delivery
emerges as a promising route for the delivery of large and small molecular drugs for the treatment
of AD. This promising pathway delivers the drug directly into the brain via an olfactory route, which
leads to the low systemic side effect, enhanced bioavailability, and higher therapeutic efficacy. However,
few setbacks, such as mucociliary clearance and poor drug mucosal permeation, limit its translation
from the laboratory to the clinic. The above stated limitation could be overcome by the adaption
of nanoparticle as a drug delivery carrier, which may lead to prolong delivery of drugs with better
permeability and high efficacy. This review highlights the latest work on the development of promising
Nanoparticles (NPs) via the intranasal route for the treatment of AD. Additionally, the current update
in this article will draw the attention of the researcher working on these fields and facing challenges
in practical applicability.
MicroRNAs for Diagnosis and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Mei Haitao , Wen Yugang
Published: August 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide, with high morbidity
and mortality rates. The diagnosis and treatment of CRC have the most significant value for disease-
free survival. Early diagnosis and early surgical resection are generally considered to be the
most effective ways to reduce CRC mortality. In the past few years, many researchers have focused
on the role of microRNAs in different tumors, making the functions of microRNAs gradually
clear. The present study reviews the role of microRNAs in the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal
cancer. Compared with the usual diagnosis methods and biomarker, circulating microRNAs
can be promising new effective biomarkers for CRC diagnosis and treatment.
A Study of Metabolic Parameters in Patients with Gout: A Single Center Study from Nepal
Authors: Vaidya Binit , Baral Rikesh , Lama Lakpa Dolma , Joshi Rakshya , Bhochhibhoya Manisha , Nakarmi Shweta
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims:

To study the prevalence of deranged metabolic parameters in patients
with gout.

Methods:

This was a prospective, cross-sectional observational study conducted at a tertiary level
rheumatology center in Nepal. Patients over 18 years and diagnosed as gout using the ACR/EULAR
2015 classification criteria were included in the study. Known cases of chronic kidney disease,
liver disease and heart diseases were excluded. Baseline demographic data along with records
of weight, waist circumference, lipid profile, glucose profile, blood pressure measurement, serum
uric acid level and inflammatory markers were taken. Diagnosis of metabolic syndrome (MS) was
made according to the National Cholesterol Education Program criteria. Approval was obtained
from the ethical review board of the National Center for Rheumatic Diseases.

Results:

A total of 523 patients with gout were enrolled in the study, out of which 97.0% were
male. The mean age at diagnosis was 49.1±12.8 years. Most of the patients were overweight with a
mean BMI of 27.0±3.6 kg/m2. About 8.1% had preexisting diabetes mellitus, 24.6% had hypertension,
5.1% had hypothyroidism and 45.1% had dyslipidemia. Patients fulfilling 2 out of 5 criteria
of MS were 60.6% whereas 30.6% fulfilled 3 out of 5 criteria.

Conclusion:

Gout was commonly observed in middle-aged men. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome
and its components was high in patients with gout. Management of gout should also include
screening and management of the metabolic syndrome.
Virtue of Nanotechnology in Confronting Obesity: Recent Advances
Authors: Sandhu Jashanpreet S. , Das Rina , Mehta Dinesh K. , Dhanawat Meenakshi
Published: August 2020

Background:

Obesity has been a serious health issue over the last decades, both in the
affluent western world and developing countries. Obesity is linked to major health complications,
such as diabetes, cardiac disorder, cancer, hypertension, sleep apnoea, etc. Available treatments,
such as bariatric surgery and pharmacotherapy are often accompanied by adverse side effects and
poor patient compliance. Nanotechnology is a discipline that is concerned with material characteristics
at the nanoscale, and offers novel techniques for disease detection, management, and prevention.

Objectives:

Recent progress in the field of obesity research at its interface with nanotechnology is
the main focus of this study. Nanomedicine has greatly enhanced the health status of the people
suffering from obesity as it provides non-obtrusive techniques for the management and treatment
of obesity.

Methods:

Literature survey was performed using PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science
search engines with- terms nanotechnology, nanomedicine and obesity. The research focused primarily
on articles published between the years 2000 and 2019.

Results:

Original and innovative approaches in the developments of nano-technology based drug
delivery strategies have been described. Nanotechnology has been widely proposed to combine
herbal medicine for the treatment of obesity, because nano-structured systems might be able to potentiate
the action of plant extracts, reducing the required dose and side effects, and improving activity.
This will offer a wide era of treatment options, which will directly improve the patient’s
compliance.

Conclusion:

This review surveys recent developments of nanotechnology-­‐based drug delivery
strategies, which are highlighted and discussed for obesity treatment with an emphasis on the enhanced
therapeutic efficiency and minimized side effects. The insights for future development related
to the management of obesity have also been discussed.
Extraction and Quantification of Eugenol from Clove Buds Using HPLC
Authors: Shafira Khadiza Fitri , Azad Abul Kalam , Labu Zubair Khalid , Helal Uddin Abul Bashar Mohammed
Published: August 2020

Background:

Eugenol is the main constituent of clove essential oil. Past studies have found that clove oil has diverse uses in the pharmaceutical field due to its antioxidant, antibacterial and anesthetic properties.

Objective:

This work compares the performance of different extraction methods and factors and identifies the effect of the treatments on oil yields and eugenol content.

Materials and Methods:

Maceration, Hydro distillation, microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and Soxhlet were performed. The best technique was identified according to yield and content. Further studies were conducted to examine the effects of different factors, such as solvent types (ethanol and methanol) and sample-to-solvent ratio (1:10 and 1:15). HPLC UV-Vis was utilized in the analysis of eugenol concentration.

Results and Discussion:

Soxhlet extraction provided the highest yield (39.98%) and eugenol content (15.83%), compared to other methods. The results observed from several Soxhlet extraction factors showed that there is no significant difference between the different factors. In the meantime, methanol 1:15 provided the greatest amount of yields (57.83%) and eugenol content (22.21%). In this regard, the higher ratio resulted in higher eugenol content.

Conclusion:

The results obtained are less comparable because the processing time, the working solvent, and the separation technique were carried out differently for each method. In the meantime, as there is no past study that compared the selected methods and factors, this study’s findings will contribute substantially to fill the gap in this field.
Keyphrase Extraction by Improving TextRank with an Integration of
Word Embedding and Syntactic Information
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Luo Qi , Feng Yukun , Ding Ke , Gifu Daniela , Zhang Silan , Ma Xiaohang , Xia Jingbo
Published: August 2020

Background:

As a known key phrase extraction algorithm, TextRank is an analogue of PageRank algorithm,
which relied heavily on the statistics of term frequency in the manner of co-occurrence analysis.

Objective:

The frequency-based characteristic made it a neck-bottle for performance enhancement, and various improved
TextRank algorithms were proposed in the recent years. Most of improvements incorporated semantic information into key
phrase extraction algorithm and achieved improvement.

Method:

In this research, taking both syntactic and semantic information into consideration, we integrated syntactic tree
algorithm and word embedding and put forward an algorithm of Word Embedding and Syntactic Information Algorithm
(WESIA), which improved the accuracy of the TextRank algorithm.

Results:

By applying our method on a self-made test set and a public test set, the result implied that the proposed unsupervised key phrase extraction algorithm outperformed the other algorithms to some extent.
Organizational Goals Versus the Dominant Coalition: A Critical View of the Value of Organizational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Bowler Wm. Matthew
Published: August 2020

Organizational citizenship behavior is believed to promote organizational goals. However, it is unlikely that all organizational citizenship behavior supports organizational goals. Because citizenship behavior is not formally mandated by the organization, such behavior is influenced by informal forces within and around the organization. This article presents a critical view of organizational citizenship behavior by examining the influence of informal power sources, such as the dominant coalition, on citizenship behavior. Future research implications and practitioner suggestions are discussed.
Barriers to Business Education: Motivating Adult Learners
Authors: Kimmel Sara B. , McNeese Mary Nell
Published: August 2020

The study compares the responses of 646 adult learners in degree programs from six institutions in the U.S. and Canada to determine statistically significant differences in motivations and barriers to enroll by gender and ethnicity. The students surveyed were enrolled in nontraditional degree programs offered primarily within the context of night classes and accelerated program study in faith-based colleges and one public university, between 2004 - 2005.
The Associations of Electronic Health Record Usability and User Age With Stress and Cognitive Failures Among Finnish Registered Nurses: Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kaihlanen Anu-Marja , Gluschkoff Kia , Hyppönen Hannele , Kaipio Johanna , Puttonen Sampsa , Vehko Tuulikki , Saranto Kaija , Karhe Liisa , Heponiemi Tarja
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Electronic health records (EHRs) are expected to provide many clinical and organizational benefits. Simultaneously, the end users may face unintended consequences, such as stress and increased cognitive workload, due to poor EHR usability. However, whether the effects of usability depend on end user characteristics, such as career stage or age, remains poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the associations of EHR usability and user age with stress related to information systems and cognitive failures among registered nurses.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey design was employed in Finland in 2017. A total of 3383 registered nurses responded to the nationwide electronic survey. Multiple linear regression was used to examine the associations of EHR usability (eg, how easily information can be found and a patient’s care can be documented) and user age with stress related to information systems and cognitive failures. Interaction effects of EHR usability and age were also tested. Models were adjusted for gender and employment sector.

RESULTS

Poor EHR usability was associated with higher levels of stress related to information systems (β=.38; P<.001). The strength of the association did not depend on user age. Poor EHR usability was also associated with higher levels of cognitive failures (β=.28; P<.001). There was a significant interaction effect between age and EHR usability for cognitive failures (β=.04; P<.001). Young nurses who found the EHR difficult to use reported the most cognitive failures.

CONCLUSIONS

Information system stress due to poor EHR usability afflicts younger and older nurses alike. However, younger nurses starting their careers may be more cognitively burdened if they find EHR systems difficult to use compared to older nurses. Adequate support in using the EHRs may be particularly important to young registered nurses, who have a lot to learn and adopt in their early years of practice.
Pengembangan Media Pembelajaran Menggunakan Program Resitasi Untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Siswa Dalam Mengerjakan Soal Ujian Nasional di SMA
Authors: Zulfa Salsabila Indana , F Gitik Safitri , Isnaini Desy Aditya Lutfa , Rahmasari Vani
Published: August 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mempermudah peserta didik dalam memahami soal-soal pada Ujian Nasional (UN) materi fisika SMA melalui program yang telah dirancang yaitu Simak UN Fisika SMA. Program yang telah dikembangkan ini merupakan program yang layak digunakan dalam membantu peserta didik untuk mengerjakan soal-soal UN. Penelitian ini menggunakan model pengembangan 4D. Tahapan yang dilewati dalam penelitian ini, yaitu: Define (pendefinisian), Design (perancangan), dan Develop (pengembangan. Dalam penelitian tidak melewati tahapa terakhir yaitu Disseminate (penyebarluasan) dikarenakan keterbatasan waktu dalam penelitian. Validasi dilakukan oleh dua orang ahli yakni: ahli media dan ahli materi. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa program resitasi ini mendapat persentase penilaian dari segi media dengan kategori aspek tampilan sebesar 86%, aspek tulisan 84%, dan aspek rekayasa perangkat lunak sebesar 80% dengan kesimpulan bahwa program resitasi ini layak untuk diaplikasikan oleh peserta didik dengan pesentase 83, 33%. Sedangkan pada persentase penilaian materi total keseluruhan sebesar 84, 33% dengan rincian sebagai berikut 88% untuk aspek materi, 89% aspek pembelajaran, dan 76% aspek evaluasi. Berdasarkan hal tersebut program resitasi ini dapat digunakan sebagai salah satu media pembelajaran untuk membantu peserta didik dalam mempersiapkan UN.
Numerical Calculation of Energy Eigen-values of the Hydrogen Negative Ion in the 2p^2 Configuration by Using the Variational Method
Authors: Utomo Yosef Robertus , Maruto Guntur , Utomo Agung Bambang Setio , Nurwantoro Pekik , Sholihun Sholihun
Published: August 2020

Calculation of energy eigen value of hydrogen negative ion (H − ) in 2p^2 configuration using the method of variation functions has been done. A work on H − can lead to calculations of electric multipole moments of a hydrogen molecule. The trial function is a linear combination of 8 expansion terms each of which is related to the Chandrasekhar’s basis. This work produces a series of 7 energy eigen values which converges to a value of −0.2468 whereas the value of this convergence is expected to be −0.2523. This deviation from the expected value is mainly due to the elimination of interelectronic distance (u) coordinate. The values of the exponent parameters used in this work contribute also to this deviation. This variational method will be applied to the construction of some energy eigen functions of Hv2 .
Pengaruh Variasi Waktu Tahan pada Austenisasi dengan Pendinginan Cepat terhadap Kekerasan dan Ketangguhan Baja AISI 1045
Authors: Ginting Ediman , - Endarmoko , Marjunus Roniyus
Published: August 2020

Telah direalisasikan Pengaruh Variasi Waktu Tahan Austenisasi dengan Pendinginan Cepat terhadap Kekerasan dan Ketangguhan Baja AISI 1045. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui bagaimana pengaruh waktu tahan austenisasi dengan variasi waktu tahan 0 menit, 15 menit, 25 menit, dan 40 menit dilanjutkan pendinginan cepat terhadap kekerasan dan ketangguhan Baja AISI 1045. Baja AISI 1045 diberi perlakuan panas menggunakan furnace dengan suhu austenisasi 830 oC, kemudian didinginkan cepat dengan air ± 3 detik. Baja AISI 1045 diuji menggunakan Universal Hardness Tester Rockwell C untuk uji kekerasan dan Mesin Uji Impak untuk uji ketangguhan. Hasil penelitian diperoleh bahwa nilai kekerasan Baja AISI 1045 meningkat dan nilai ketangguhan menurun. Nilai rata-rata kekerasan terbesar diperoleh pada waktu tahan 40 menit sebesar 75,30±0,9 HRC. Nilai rata-rata ketangguhan terkecil diperoleh pada waktu tahan 40 menit sebesar 0,85±0,04 J/mm2.
Assessment of histo-reparative effect of methanolic extract of Camellia sinensis in rat model of Lead-induced testicular damage
Authors: Omotoso Dayo Rotimi , Akinola Adeniran Oluwadamilare , Ehiemere Winners Prince
Published: August 2020

Objective: To assess reparative effect of methanolic extract of Camellia sinensis on testicular histomorphology of male Wistar rats exposed to lead-induced testicular damage.  Methods: Twenty four male Wistar rats were grouped into four A–D (n = 6). These include normal control group A (distilled water 5 ml/kg), test control group B (lead acetate 30 mg/kg), treatment group C (lead acetate 30 mg/kg + MECS 5 mg/kg) and treatment group D (lead acetate 30 mg/kg + MECS 10 mg/kg). Administrations were through oral route for a period of 60 days and body weight of study animals was recorded during days 0, 20, 40 and 60 of study. Phytochemical analysis of extract was done using GCMS. At the end of sudy, testicular tissue weight of study animals was measured followed by histopathological study. Results: The extract significantly ameliorated body weight loss and exhibited histo-reparative effect on testicular histomorphology of study animals following lead exposure. Conclusion: Methanolic extract of Camellia sinensis exhibits reparative effect against toxic effect of tissue toxicant due to its antioxidant activity.

Keywords: Camellia sinensis, Lead toxicity, Testis histomorphology, Wistar rats
Acute kidney injury with dark urine: the case of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
Authors: El-Reshaid Kamel , Sabri Hasan , Al-Bader Shaikha
Published: August 2020

In this case report; we describe a patient with severe attack of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) following Ciprofloxacin therapy.  He presented with recurrent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting and dark urine.   Physical examination revealed severe pallor and jaundice.  Laboratory investigations showed severe intravascular hemolysis with negative Coomb’s test, progressive acute kidney injury (AKI), sterile blood cultures and negative serology for autoimmune diseases.  Subsequently, he developed pancytopenia.  Ham test was positive and flow cytometry, later on, confirmed PNH.  He was supported with multiple transfusions of packed blood cells and hemodialysis.  Ciprofloxacin was discontinued and his PNH was treated with Solumedrol 1 g daily for 3 days followed by Prednisone 60 mg/day for 2 months.  Two weeks later; his hemolysis abated and his AKI improved.  Up to 5 years later, he still has minor PNH clone yet without disease activity.  In conclusion; our patient had acute drug-induced hemolytic crisis associated with minor PNH clone.  With drug-vigilance; no further relapses were reported and his PNH clone remained stable for 5 years. The case expands the spectrum of PNH phenotypes and its triggering factors.

Keywords: AKI, anemia, autoimmune, flow cytometry, hemolysis, PNH.
How Temperature Pharmacology Was Formed: History in Personalities
Authors: Urakov Aleksandr L.
Published: August 2020

It is shown that temperature pharmacology is a new scientific and practical direction in which the local interaction of drugs is considered taking into account the local temperature of selected parts of the body. It is indicated that the main provisions of this direction were formulated in Russia by 1988. Catalysts for the formation of a new direction were the results of in vitro experiments with isolated mitochondria at different local temperatures. The chronology of the resolution of contradictions between the existing public opinion and new ideas about the role of local temperature in the mechanism of action of drugs in hypoxia and ischemia is indicated.  Scientists, doctors and journalists who were the first to believe in the prospects of temperature pharmacology are listed. The first scientific articles and inventions that formed the basis of a new scientific direction are presented. The latest achievements and visible prospects for the development of temperature pharmacology in medicine, biology, pharmacology and pharmacy are indicated.

Keywords: history of science, pharmacology, pharmacy, medicines, local temperature.
Prevention and Management of Postpartum Complications in Sows: The Case of Matoto, Guinea
Authors: Tea Mama Agnes , Soromou Lanan Wassy , Goumou P , Keyra Mohamed
Published: August 2020

One of the most common diseases that affects sows after parturition is mastitis. In other cases, it is a swelling of the breasts or a case of vulvitis or vaginitis. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of postpartum complications in sows and establish treatment management and preventive measures. Bacteriology analysis showed that the prevalence of mastitis was significantly higher for mastitis. Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp have been identified as bacterial pathogens. Prevalence rates were significantly higher in primiparous sows (3.78% of mastitis; 1.4% to 0.7% of vaginitis and vulvitis) than in multiparous animals (0.72% of mastitis; 0.3% of vaginitis and 0 , 06% of vulvitis). In the Matoto municipality, mastitis in sows manifests as edema of the breast and is known as one of the main pathologies affecting the females after giving birth. These data demonstrate the appearance of postpartum complications which should attract the attention of researchers and pig breeders for better exploitation of pig farming.

Keywords: complications, postpartum, sows, Guinea Conakry.
Protective effects of Trigonella foenum-graecum crude extract over damage induced by Sreptozotocin diabetes rats
Authors: Bencheikh Dalila , Khennouf Seddik , Dahamna Saliha
Published: August 2020

The seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) are used for treatment of diabetes mellitus in traditional medicine. This paper examines the protection effects of fenugreek from the damage induced by streptozotocin diabetes rats. Tannins content of T. foenum-graecum was also estimated in vitro. Normoglycemic male Wistar rats, weighing 170-250 g, were selected and randomly divided into five groups (n= 6): normal control, diabetic + TFGE (200mg/kg), diabetic+ TFGE (600mg/kg), diabetic + Glibil (3mg/kg), untreated group. Diabetes was induced after a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg body weight) and Fenugreek was given every day via orogastric tube for 18 days. At the end of experiment, rats were sacarificed. Organ weight was estimated of all groups. Trigonella foenum-graecum administration significantly improved the polydipsia, polyphagia, and it also compensated weight loss of diabetic rats (P<0.05, P < 0.01). Moreover, fenugreek had a significant concentration of tannins (806.22 ±0.036 µg TAE/gE). The results revealed that fenugreek improves the damage in diabetic rats that in some ways validates the traditional use of this plant in treatment of diabetes.

Keywords: Antidiabetic activity, Protective effect, Streptozotocin, Tannins, Trigonella foenum-graecum
On Buprenorphine Implants: Should It Be Widely Used For Medically Assisted Treatment?
Authors: Bailey Patrick
Published: August 2020

Buprenorphine implants are recognized as one of the routes to administer Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT). However, the use of these implants is far less compared to oral medications in battling substance abuse. This article explores the likely reasons why buprenorphine implants are not as commonly recommended, and whether it is a feasible option to consider it a mainstream type of treatment.
Effectiveness of Brisk Walking Exercise on Glycaemic Control and Cardio-Vascular Risk Factors in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: LAKHDAR Dalila , DIAF Mustapha , KHALED Méghit Boumediene
Published: August 2020

Objective: Our aim is to evaluate the effect of brisk walking exercise on anthropometric characteristics, blood parameters, physical performance and cardiovascular risk in Algerian type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods: A comparative interventional study was performed in Mascara (north-western Algeria) on patients with type 2 diabetes. All participants were subjected to a physical activity program that consisted of brisk walking sessions during seven months. Anthropometric characteristics, biochemical parameters, physical performance and cardiovascular risk indices were evaluated and compared between the two genders. 

Results: Fifty-three (22 men and 31 women) type 2 diabetic patients with were involved in the study. The mean age of all participants was 50.86±11.07 years. No difference between the two genders was observed with respect to age, anthropometrics, systolic blood pressure, maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) and all biochemical parameters and lipid ratios. A gradual decrease in most anthropometric, clinical, biochemical parameters, and blood pressure levels have been disclosed after seven-month (28 weeks) of follow-up of the brisk walking programme. Higher significant decreases (p<0.001) in fasting, post-effort and postprandial blood glycaemia were observed in both genders during all stages of our study. No significant differences were showed on lipid ratios; moreover, the majority of lipid ratios values were within the normal thresholds. The entirely recorded values of VO2max, body mass index (BMI) and heart rate were slightly higher in females comparing to males with both levels of glycated haemoglobin.

Conclusion: The practice of three brisk walking sessions per week at a rate of 30 minutes each has beneficial impact on anthropometric parameters, biochemical parameters, physical performance, glycaemic control and on the reduction of cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetic patients of both genders.

Keywords: Brisk walking, Type 2 diabetes, Glycaemic control, Blood parameters, Cardiovascular risk
Pharmacological Modeling and Study for Antidiabetic Activity of Praecitrullus fistulosus Leaves Extracts
Authors: Tiwari Ashutosh , Tyagi C.K , Pandey Harish , Shah Sunil Kumar
Published: August 2020

Phytochemical and pharmacological investigations of leaves of Praecitrullus fistulosus for the antidiabetic activity have been done in our research work encompassed in depth and systematic screening of plant leaves and further extraction, characterization and bioevaluation. The research was envisaged for antidiabetic activity of different extracts procured by successive extraction methods and to find out or isolate the most possible active compounds from the active extracts showing the best activity. The antidiabetic activity of all extracts has been evaluated by STZ induced diabetes. The isolated compounds have been evaluated by in-vitro and in-vivo models. The alcohol soluble extractives values were found to be higher than water soluble extractive value. Alcohol being a moderately non polar solvent, able to extract polar and non-polar components yields higher extractive value. The ethanol extract shows significant enhancement in glucose tolerance in glucose fed hyperglycemic normal rats and produced a marked decrease in blood glucose levels at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight in streptozotocin-diabetic rats after 21 days treatment.

Keywords: Praecitrullus fistulosus, Streptozotocin and Glibenclamide, diabetes, Pharmacological Evaluation
Lipid ratios as a predictive marker of Subclinical Atherosclerosis inflammation among Type 1 Diabetic patients with Thyroid Dysfunction
Authors: HAMRI Walid Hassene , DIAF Mustapha , HARIR Noria , HADJ HABIB Mohamed
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives: Epidemiological inquiries on the subclinical atherosclerotic disease in type 1 diabetes associated with autoimmune thyroid disease are scarce. Our aim was to evaluate the risk of developing atherosclerosis via lipid ratios by comparing two groups of patients according to their TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone) status.

Methods: A retrospective study including 190 patients (13-74 years) with confirmed type 1 diabetes divided into the following groups (patients with serum TSH < 2.5 μIU/mL vs. patients with serum TSH ≥ 2.5 μIU/mL). Autoimmune thyroid disease was classified according to clinical, biological, and follow up data.

Results: Our study showed a slight predominance of females (50.50%), with an average age of 29.25±11.39 years. The prevalence of hypothyroidism was 14.7%, hyperthyroidism 6.3%, and anti-TPO 16.31%. Significant differences were observed between lipid profiles such as HDL and TG (p= 0.008; p=0.04, respectively). The results showed that the 3rd (OR= 2.28 [0.72-7.20]; p=0.15) and the fourth quartiles (OR= 1.9 [0.61-5.83]; p=0.26) of TC/HDL ratio were higher in patients with serum TSH ≥ 2.5 μIU/mL group. Similarly, we noticed higher concordant values on the last quartile (4th) of LDL/HDL ratio with p values of 0.06 as well as the two quartiles (2ndand 4th) of TG/HDL ratio with p values of 0.03 and 0.04, respectively. In both groups, lipid ratios were slightly higher in males compared to females’ patients.

Conclusion: The risk of atherosclerosis was higher in patients with elevated TSH concentrations. Therefore, early detection of thyroid dysfunction and associated dyslipidemia is essential for effective prevention of premature cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Keywords: Subclinical atherosclerotic disease, autoimmune thyroid disease, TSH, type 1 diabetes
Ethnopharmacological Study and Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity of Ocimum basilicum L. Extracts
Authors: Benabdallah Hassiba , Benchikh Fatima , Amira Smain
Published: August 2020

Ocimum basilicum L. (O. basilicum L.) with the vernacular name of Reihan or Reyhan is a medicinal plant from the Lamiaceae family, widely used in traditional Algerian medicine. The aim of the present study was to research the traditional uses and the mode of application of O. basilicum L. in the M’sila region (northern Algeria), to estimate the content of polyphenols and flavonoids in methanolic and aqueous extracts of this plant and to evaluate the antioxidant activity of these extracts by the 2, 2’-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH). The results of ethnopharmacological survey showed that decoction of leaves in fresh or dry form is the most frequent use. The yields of extracts were 28.67% and 15.24% for the methanolic and aqueous extracts, respectively. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of different compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins and essential oils. The results demonstrated that the methanolic extract presented a high polyphenols and flavonoids contents with 225.99 ± 3.13 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry extract and 83.63 ± 3.48 mg quercetin equivalent/g dry extract, respectively. The evaluation of the antioxidant power is carried out using the method of trapping of the free radical DPPH, with BHT as reference antioxidant. The results showed that the methanolic extract has a significant free radical scavenging capacity with an IC50 value of 304.82 ± 24.15 µg/ml; which was greater than the trapping capacity of BHT (IC50 = 327.46 ± 13.11 µg/ml). Whereas, the aqueous extract has a weaker effect with an IC50 value of 2122.81 ± 107.77 µg/ml.

Keywords: BHT, DPPH, flavonoids, Ocimum basilicum L., polyphenols.
A Case Report on Idiopathic Severe Bullous Pemphigoid
Authors: Mohammadi Fizza Khan , Zoha Sultana , Baleeqhuddin Mohammed , Ali Salman Mir , Faizan Abdullah Md.
Published: August 2020

Bullous Pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune disorder which exploits the immune system and affecting sub-epidermal region of skin causing mild itching to infection and blistering of sub-epidermal region. Clinical presentations are pruritis, urticarial, papular lesions. These later evolve to bullae in weeks to months and are typically present in the axillae, on the flexor surface of the forearms, medial thighs, trunk, and abdomen. The treatment for bullous pemphigoid is systemic corticosteroids, topical steroids in combination with nicotinamide plus tetracycline, minocycline or doxycycline have shown success in multiple cases. Immunosuppressive therapy is used when steroids do not control the disease or if patients have contraindications for systemic corticosteroid treatments. Patient was brought to emergency department with chief complaints itching, redness, bullous lesion all over the body for 2 months.Oral complaints including solitary erosion seen on right side of buccal mucosa, pharyngeal erythema. Laboratory investigations were carried out. Patient was diagnosed based on physical examination. Patient was provided with adequate treatment and counseling.

Keywords: Bullous Pemphigoid, corticosteroid, Autoimmune disorder, sub-epidermal region.
TIRYAQ E ARBA: A classical Unani Formulation to boost immunity
Authors: Khan Asim Ali , Bashir Fouzia , Akhtar Jamal
Published: August 2020

Unani System of medicine is one among the oldest systems of medicine that prevails till date with its efficient drugs derived from animal, plant and mineral resources. Over 2400 years ago the father of medicine, Hippocrates practiced it, however His medicine included a great deal of ancient Egyptian Medicine as well as important components of the ancient Mesopotamian traditions. This system of medicine has a detailed description of drugs that are utilized in many infectious diseases like influenza, pneumonia and other respiratory disorders. Unani scholars have prescribed several single drugs as well as compound formulations for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases in general. Tiryaq e Arba is one such formulation, which is known to improve host immunity anytime or during the outbreak of epidemics, endemics and pandemics. Through this paper, an attempt has been made to present Unani concept of infectious and epidemic diseases and details of Tiryaq e Arba with a possible approach to manage Covid-19.

Keywords: Tiryaq e Arba, ingredients, epidemics, Unani Medicine.
Análise da rugosidade superficial de uma resina composta tratada com gel fluoretado em diferentes pH
Authors: Castro Vitória Tavares de , Duarte Marília Bizinoto Silva , Damé-Teixeira Nailê
Published: August 2020

Objetivo: O flúor acidulado é utilizado no controle da doença cárie, mas seus efeitos na superfície de resinas compostas são controversos. O objetivo do estudo é avaliar a rugosidade superficial de uma resina composta após a aplicação tópica de flúor in vitro. Métodos: Espécimes de resina Vittra (FGM) foram preparados (8mmx1mm) e polidos. Após avaliação do pH de produtos fluoretados, o de maior e menor pH foram selecionados para os experimentos. Foram testados três grupos experimentais (n=15): grupo 1 – flúor gel acidulado a 1,23% (Nova DFL) (menor pH:4,48±0,32), grupo 2 – flúor gel neutro a 2% (Nova DFL) (maior pH:7,03±0,40), grupo 3 – sem exposição ao flúor (controle negativo). O experimento simulou o protocolo padrão clínico de aplicação de flúor (uma aplicação por semana, durante um minuto, por quatro semanas). A rugosidade superficial foi mensurada antes e após o tratamento através de microscopia confocal e a característica superficial avaliada por imagens reconstruídas. Foi realizado teste ANOVA (post-hoc de Bonferroni) para comparar médias da rugosidade superficial entre grupos. Resultados: O grupo exposto ao flúor gel acidulado apresentou os maiores valores de rugosidade (Ra: 0,29±0,08), sendo maior que o grupo exposto ao gel neutro (Ra: 0,21±0,08) e controle (Ra: 0,23±0,05) (p
Algunas perspectivas investigativas internacionales contemporáneas sobre formación y pedagogía de los derechos humanos
Authors: Parra Ávila Elliot
Published: August 2020

La pedagogía en derechos humanos cobra cada vez mayor fuerza, en especial en el área de la investigación de programas de posgrado. El objetivo de este texto es ilustrar el estado actual de las investigaciones sobre el campo de la formación y la pedagogía de los derechos humanos desde una perspectiva internacional. En vista de la escasa documentación que exponga sus campos de estudio, se han identificado tres: 1) Estudios relacionados con derechos humanos y cultura, 2) Enfoques diferenciales sobre sujetos de derechos humanos y 3) Estudios de caso sobre países en particular. La investigación internacional en derechos humanos es amplia y diversa, supera las visiones clásicas de los conflictos armados y expone nuevas experiencias que pueden ser emuladas nacionalmente.