bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mucuna pruriens seeds given in broiler diets on growth performance and carcass yield
Authors: Santos Ricalde Ronald Herve , Sarmiento Franco Luis , Lopez Santiz Francisco , Sandoval Castro Carlos
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluated the effect of soaked Mucuna pruriens (MP) seeds in tap water, acid or alkaline solution + cooking on its L-Dopa content and on the productive performance of broiler chickens. Ninety-six sexed chicks aged 21-days old with an initial live weight of 720 ± 80 g were used. Four diets were used, a control without MP (C) and three diets including 25 % MP: a) soaked MP in tap water + cooking (WMP); b) soaked MP in acetic acid solution + cooking (AAMP); c) soaked MP in calcium hydroxide solution + cooking (CHMP). The alkaline treatment reduced 71 % of L-Dopa in comparison to acid or water treatment (53 % and 41 % respectively). In the starter phase, the acid group had the lowest live weight gain (p<0.05) and highest feed conversion ratio when compared to control (p<0.05). Productive performance of birds fed with CHMP and C group was similar (p>0.05). In the finisher phase, there was not statistical difference in feed intake, live weight gain and feed conversion ratio among treatments (p>0.05). No differences were observed in carcass yield (p>0.05), but, the birds fed MP or AAMP had a heavier liver than birds on C group (p<0.05). Results shown that 25 % of CHMP can be used as feedstuff for broiler chickens without negative effects in their productive performance. Keywords: Velvet bean, L-Dopa, Poultry, weight gain.
Concentración de nitrato, fosfato, boro y cloruro en el agua del río Lerma
Authors: Pérez-Díaz José Pedro , Ortega-Escobar Héctor Manuel , Ramírez-Ayala Carlos , Flores-Magdaleno Héctor , Sánchez-Bernal Edgar Iván , Can-Chulim Álvaro , Mancilla-Villa Oscar Raúl
Published: February 2019

El río Lerma se origina en la laguna de Almoloya, en el Estado de México a 2 588 msnm y desemboca en el Lago de Chapala, Jalisco a 1 500 msnm. Este río forma parte de la cuenca Lerma-Santiago-Pacífico, una de las más importantes de México en el ramo agrícola e industrial, su agua se utiliza en la irrigación de cultivos y es receptor de agua de origen residual doméstico, industrial y drenaje agrícola. El objetivo de esta investigación fue conocer y evaluar la concentración de nitrato, fosfato, boro y cloruro en agua del río Lerma para estimar el riesgo de toxicidad en algunos cultivos irrigados con esta agua. El promedio de concentración para el nitrato (NO3-) fue de 27.48 mg L-1, para el fosfato (PO43-) fue 4.027 mg L-1, el boro (B3+) presentó en promedio 0.496 mg L-1 y la concentración media de cloruro (Cl-) fue 1.974 meq L-1; en todas las muestras de agua el coeficiente de variación indicó que existe una alta heterogeneidad en la concentración iónica del agua, atribuida a las diversas descargas de agua de origen residual doméstico, industrial y drenaje agrícola. La interpretación de los resultados indicó que el río Lerma presenta diferente grado de restricción de uso con respecto del riesgo de toxicidad por iones específicos. La elevada concentración de nitrato y fosfato en el agua del río Lerma pude inducir la eutrofización progresiva de este cuerpo de agua y el exceso de nitrato puede lixiviarse y contaminar el agua subterránea.
Antagonistas microbianos a Fusarium spp., como agente causal de pudrición de raíces y tallo en melón
Authors: Espinoza Ahumada César Alejandro , Gallegos Morales Gabriel , Hernández Castillo Francisco Daniel , Ochoa Fuentes Yisa María , Cepeda Siller Melchor , Castillo Reyes Francisco
Published: February 2019

La pudrición de raíz y tallo de plantas del melón, es un factor limitante en la producción del cultivo. El uso indiscriminado de fungicidas, ha causado problemas de resistencia y contaminación ambiental en las áreas agrícolas de México. Una alternativa es el uso de agentes microbianos como Trichoderma, Bacillus y Streptomyces, los cuales favorecen el manejo y control de la enfermedad, inducen el crecimiento y aumentó de la cosecha. Este trabajo se realize, con el objeto de aislar e identificar  al agente causal de la pudrición radical del melón en la región de Paila, Municipio de Parras de la Fuente, Coahuila y su control con agentes microbianos. Se recuperaron seis aislamientos, de la misma cantidad de áreas de cultivo, identificados morfológicamente como especies distintas del Género Fusarium. Molecularmente y con base en las secuencias de nucleotidos de las regiones ITS1 e ITS4, se encontró porcentajes de identidad del 97-100 % correspondientes a Fusarium oxysporum y Fusarium solani. Bioensayos de antagonismo in vitro, mostraron que Trichoderma asperellum inhibió hasta un 74%, Bacillus subtillis 46 % y Streptomyces mutabilis 35 %, para las cepas de Fusarium. Los agentes microbianos representan un recurso para el biocontrol de la pudrición radical y del tallo del cultivo de melón.
Antioxidant capacity of capulin (Prunus serotina subsp. capuli (Cav). McVaugh) fruit at different stages of ripening
Authors: Guerra-Ramìrez Diana , Hernández Rodríguez Guillermina , Espinosa- Solares Teodoro , Perez-Lopez Artemio , Salgado-Escobar Irma
Published: February 2019

Abstract. – Prunus serotina is a specie that grows wild or under cultivated conditions in several regions of America, and which has attracted considerable attention as a potential source of antioxidants. The study aimed to evaluate the concentration changes in compounds that contribute to the antioxidant capacity in capulín (Prunus serotina) fruits during the ripening process in order to define the time when the maximum concentration is reached. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated by spectroscopic methods. A completely randomized simple factor design was used for the statistical analysis. It was found that the content of total phenols and flavonoids decreased significantly at S3 (93 DAA) stage of ripening. Total anthocyanins increased significantly to 1.4 . The antioxidant capacity of the fruits had a maximum value of 63.7  at S3 stage of ripening (93 DAA). The results indicated that antioxidant capacity of the fruits is higher before reaching the characteristic purplish coloration, which is an indicator for consumption.
Effet de la salinité et de la restriction de l’eau d’abreuvement sur les métabolites sanguins des caprins Arbia en Algérie
Authors: Mehalaine Zeyneb , Chaker-Houd Kahina , Ghamri Abdelaziz Nadir , Mebirouk-Boudechiche Lamia , Matallah Saida
Published: February 2019

L’étude visait à déterminer l’effet du stress hydrique sur les métabolites sanguins des caprins de race Arbia en Algérie. Quatre groupes de dix boucs chacun ont été aléatoirement soumis à des régimes d’abreuvement différents : le groupe 1 (témoin) avait libre accès à une eau de source (trois litres), tandis que les groupes 2 et 3 recevaient la même eau enrichie respectivement de deux et cinq grammes de chlorure de sodium par litre. Le groupe 4 avait uniquement accès à 25 % de la quantité d’eau distribuée aux boucs du groupe témoin. A la fin de la période expérimentale, des prélèvements sanguins ont été réalisés afin de doser les protéines totales, la créatinine, l’albumine, l’urée, le cholestérol total et le glucose. Les différents traitements ont augmenté les concentrations plasmiques de l’albumine, de la créatinine, des protéines totales et du cholestérol total, ainsi que l’urée des animaux ayant subi une restriction hydrique. Cependant, ils n’ont pas affecté la glycémie. Ces résultats ont montré que l’exposition à court terme (12 jours) de boucs Arbia à la salinisation de l’eau d’abreuvement ou à une restriction hydrique affectait la majorité de leurs métabolites sanguins à l’exception du glucose.
Parasites gastro-intestinaux chez les chiens à Lubumbashi
Authors: Byakya Daudet , Lombe Boniface , Madimba Yan , Kaluendi Emmanuel
Published: February 2019

Une étude parasitologique a été menée en 2015 sur des chiens de sexe, âge et race différents, vivant en liberté dans la ville de Lubumbashi, République démocratique du Congo. Des échantillons de fèces ont été prélevés et analysés par coproscopie selon une méthode de flottation. Sur les 120 chiens examinés, 78 (65 %) étaient infestés, parmi lesquels 74 (61,7 %) avaient des helminthes gastro-intestinaux et 4 (3,3 %) avaient des coccidies. Les coproscopies ont révélé la présence de cinq espèces de parasites : Ankylostoma spp. (41 chiens), Toxocara canis (22), Toxascaris leonina (8), Isospora canis (4) et Dipylidium caninum (3). I. canis n’a été retrouvé que chez les chiots. Le dépistage fréquent d’ankylostomes et de T. canis suggère qu’il existe à Lubumbashi un risque de contamination de l’homme par ces parasites zoonotiques.
Conforto térmico da arquitetura vernacular produzida pelos descendentes da Pomerânia no sul do Brasil
Authors: Treichel Suzana Zehetmeyer , Silva Antonio Cesar Silveira Baptista da , Oliveira Ana Lúcia Costa de
Published: February 2019

O presente artigo visou caracterizar o conforto térmico da arquitetura vernacular produzida por descendentes Pomeranos na região Sul do Brasil, a partir da coleta de dados in situ de características externas e internas. Para as características externas, foram analisadas um total de 126 casas. Com esses dados, foi realizada uma classificação preliminar dos tipos arquitetônicos da região. Após essa etapa, foram selecionadas 18 casas, das 126 analisadas anteriormente, para a coleta de dados arquitetônicos e construtivos. Com essa nova análise, se obteve a classificação final de quatro tipos arquitetônicos, com materiais e períodos construtivos distintos. Os quatro tipos selecionados estão em um recorte temporal de 100 anos (1870 a 1970), e foram analisados quanto ao conforto térmico. Foi possível observar que os diferentes tipos não apresentaram índices elevados de conforto. Observou-se também que a orientação solar pouco influenciou nas questões de conforto, assim como também não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre os diferentes tipos, embora as casas do Tipo IV terem apresentado uma sutil melhora de conforto térmico, quando comparado com os demais tipos arquitetônicos. Essas poucas variações do comportamento térmico entre as diferentes orientações solares e os diferentes tipos arquitetônicos podem ser explicadas pela elevada capacidade térmica das paredes e a pequena área de abertura na fachada que as casas apresentam, mantendo as temperaturas internas com menor variação, em relação ao ambiente externo. Através deste trabalho foi possível abordar a complexa interação entre clima, cultura e tecnologia nas habitações estudadas.
Local wishes map as a tool for promoting dialogue and developing healthy cities
Authors: Sperandio Ana Maria Girotti , Malek-Zadeh Murilo Urssi , Arêas João Luiz de Souza , Francisco Filho Lauro Luiz
Published: February 2019

O desenvolvimento de cidades saudáveis necessita da governança intersetorial. Entretanto, em cidades com poucos recursos, existem diversos obstáculos para alcançar esse objetivo. Portanto, foi desenvolvido um procedimento investigativo de baixo custo, com potencial de sistematizar os desejos setoriais, para promover o diálogo. Esse procedimento engloba duas etapas. Essas etapas podem ser aplicadas em diferentes grupos e depois os resultados serem comparados. O primeiro passo é uma conversa guiada por uma lista de perguntas. Nessa fase, as informações são coletadas para entender como os indivíduos consideram uma cidade saudável ou a promoção da saúde, a relação entre planejamento urbano e saúde urbana, como o diálogo entre setores pode ser alcançado, e questões locais. Na segunda etapa, os indivíduos representam seus desejos no mapa da cidade (ou região da cidade). Esses desejos são representados através de anotações ou por ícones sobre o mapa. Esse procedimento foi conduzido em Holambra, em 2017. A prefeitura dessa cidade requisitou assistência para que a cidade participasse da Rede de Municípios Potencialmente Saudáveis. Os setores investigados foram os gestores e a população. Um mapa de desejos comuns foi criado, bem como mapas de desejos setoriais. Portanto, esses mapas podem ser usados como guias para promover o diálogo e serem usados como instrumento de monitoramento do progresso das políticas. Essa ferramenta pode ser um promotor de diálogo e um instrumento de monitoramento, para que se promova a saúde, mesmo em situações de pouco recurso.
Reference materials of catalytic activity as a means of ensuring the metrological traceability of measurement results. KATAL
Authors: Kulyabina E. V. , Melkova O. N. , Guskova E. A. , Grebennikova T. V.
Published: February 2019

Introduction. The article considers the problems of metrological support of catalytic activity measurements. The paper gives certain characteristics of the State Primary Special Measurement Standard for the unit of catalytic activity – KATAL and examines the role of reference materials (RMs) in ensuring the metrological traceability of measurement results.

Materials and methods. A method for measuring the concentration of the recombinant protective antigen of Bacillus anthracis and the recombinant GP-protein of the Ebola virus, which means in using «sandwich» enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, was certified by FGUP «VNIIMS» as a measurement procedure. The following RMs tested by FGUP «VNIIMS» can be used for the development and production of appropriate control samples when performing measurements for comparisons: the RM for the mass concentration of the recombinant protective antigen of Bacillus anthracis in phosphate-saline solution, the RM for the mass concentration of the recombinant GP-protein of the Ebola virus, and the RM for the mass concentration of recombinant Clostridium Difficile toxin.

Results. The paper presents the main reactions of the method for measuring the catalytic activity of catalysts for heterogeneous processes, which are also used to carry out exhaust gas cleaning processes.

Discussion and conclusions. Thus, conditions have been created for building hierarchies of calibrations of in-demand objects established on the basis of the List of Critical Technologies of the Russian Federation, state programs for the development of industrial sectors.
DINÂMICA REGIONAL URBANA, CONDIÇÕES DE VIDA E DESIGUALDADES NO CENTRO-OESTE DO BRASIL
Authors: Fernandez Fernando Negret
Published: February 2019

O presente trabalho teve por objetivo estudar a dinâmica e as mudanças nas regiões e cidades dos estados do Centro-Oeste e do Distrito Federal, analisar e explicar os diversos fatores que promoveram e promovem a urbanização, o crescimento desigual das reg
A ECONOMIA DA UNIDADE FAMILIAR CAMPONESA DE PRODUÇÃO: ESTUDO DE CASO
Authors: Cajado Diana Mendes , Esmeraldo Gema , Paula Luiz Antônio de , Alencar José de , Mayorga Maria
Published: February 2019

A intenção de analisar economicamente a Unidade Produção Familiar Camponesa ao passo que se revela extremamente importante, também se mostra um desafio. Na busca desta compreensão, é Chayanov quem elabora uma proposta original de análise dos processos int
COOPERATIVISMO NÃO PATRIMONIAL COMO FORMA DE DESENVOLVIMENTO REGIONAL: O PROCESSO DE CRIAÇÃO DA COOPERATIVA DOS AGRICULTORES FAMILIARES DO VALE DO RIO CAPIVARI – COOPERRICA
Authors: Estevam Dimas de Oliveira , Maciel Rossandra Oliveira , Ronçani Liara Darabas
Published: February 2019

Este artigo trata-se de uma experiência de um projeto de pesquisa e extensão que objetivou estimular os agricultores familiares do município de Armazém - SC a criar uma Cooperativa. Das atividades realizadas resultou a criação da COOPERRICA. Desta forma o
O QUE DETERMINA A ROTATIVIDADE NO MERCADO DE TRABALHO BRASILEIRO?
Authors: Silva Filho Luís Abel da , Santos José Márcio dos
Published: February 2019

As configurações ocorridas nas relações de produção e no mundo do trabalho a partir do final do século XX mantém forte semelhança ao modelo de crescimento econômico corrente. A precariedade do trabalho, pautada nas relações vulneráveis, tem se acentuado e
IMPACTO DAS RENDAS PETROLÍFERAS SOBRE OS MUNICÍPIOS: UMA ANÁLISE DAS FINANÇAS PÚBLICAS E DESENVOLVIMENTO EM SERGIPE.IMPACTO DAS RENDAS PETROLÍFERAS SOBRE OS MUNICÍPIOS: UMA ANÁLISE DAS FINANÇAS PÚBLICAS E DESENVOLVIMENTO EM SERGIPE.
Authors: SILVA LUCAS EMANUEL DA , SANTANA JOSÉ RICARDO DE , FARIAS TÁCITO AUGUSTO
Published: February 2019

Este trabalho busca avaliar o impacto que as rendas petrolíferas têm causado tanto sobre algumas contas municipais quanto sobre o nível de desenvolvimento dos principais municípios petro-rentistas de Sergipe. O intervalo desse estudo é de 2000 a 2010. A m
Presença da china na áfrica: maldição ou benção?
Authors: Ouriques Helton Ricardo , Schmidt Gabriela Bohrer
Published: February 2019

Desde a Revolução Cultural, em 1949, há um estreitamento das relações entre a China e os países africanos. Naquele momento, essas relações foram impulsionadas por motivos políticos e ideológicos. Já a partir da década de 1980 e do
acelerado crescimento e
SEIS DÉCADAS DA TEORIA DOS POLOS DE CRESCIMENTO: REVISITANDO PERROUX
Authors: Jesus Josias Alves de , Spinola Noelio Dantaslé
Published: February 2019

A presente investigação faz um balanço acerca da Teoria dos Polos de Crescimento nos últimos sessenta anos. Entende-se que esta Teoria exerceu forte influência no pensamento
econômico europeu nas décadas de 1950 e 1960, e, também, no Brasil. O objetivo g
A IMPORTÂNCIA DE SERVIÇOS NO BRASIL POR MEIO DE SETORES-CHAVE: UMA ANÁLISE SOBRE A MATRIZ INSUMOPRODUTO DE 2013
Authors: Batista Alexandre Ricardo de Aragão , Hegele Fabiane , Oliveira Édivo de Almeida
Published: February 2019

Este trabalho tenta verificar qual a importância de Serviços, para a economia brasileira, no período recente, por meio de identificação de setores-chave. Faz-se uma breve revisão
teórica e, sequencialmente, por meio do índice de Rasmussen-Hirschman, base
ESTUDO DA COMPETITIVIDADE DAS EXPORTAÇÕES DE MELÃO NOS ESTADOS DE RIO GRANDE DO NORTE E CEARÁ DE 1997- 2014
Authors: Santos José Rayres Pereira dos , Santos José Márcio dos
Published: February 2019

O Brasil ocupa grande espaço no mercado mundial de frutas. Atualmente, o melão ocupa posição de destaque na pauta de exportações nacionais, sendo a fruta mais exportada pelo país. Sua produção é concentrada nos Estados do Ceará e Rio Grande do Norte. Tais
POBREZA E SEUS DETERMINANTES NOS MUNICÍPIOS BRASILEIROS: ABORDAGEM MONETÁRIA, DE PRIVAÇÕES E MULTIDIMENSIONAL
Authors: Struminski Carlos E. C. , Raiher Augusta Pelinski
Published: February 2019

Este trabalho tem como objetivo mensurar a pobreza entre os municípios brasileiros, identificando seus fatores determinantes. Para isso, três índices foram construídos,
abordando a pobreza a partir das concepções monetária, de privações e multidimensiona
AVALIAÇÃO DOS IMPACTOS ECONÔMICOS DO TURISMO DE EVENTOS EM PORTO ALEGRE/RS
Authors: Fochezatto Adelar , Schaidhauer Maurício , Bohnenberger Denis
Published: February 2019

As atividades econômicas ligadas ao turismo estão crescendo bastante nos últimos anos. Por isso, o turismo tem sido alvo de muitos estudos e de elaboração de políticas públicas. Os objetivos deste estudo são dimensionar o segmento do turismo na cidade de
AS TRANSFORMAÇÕES URBANAS A PARTIR DO MERCADO IMOBILIÁRIO
Authors: Barros Iolanda Soares de
Published: February 2019

Este artigo visa abordar as transformações do espaço urbano a partir das intervenções do mercado imobiliário, demonstrando como se deu esse processo na área da Av. Tancredo Neves, na cidade de Salvador- Ba, no período entre 2002 e 2012, quando foram impla
CAPITAL HUMANO E DESENVOLVIMENTO REGIONAL NO ESTADO DA BAHIA: UMA ANÁLISE ESPACIAL ENTRE OS ANOS 2000 E 2010
Authors: Paschoalino Pietro André Telatin , Parré José Luiz , Bernardelli Luan Vinicius , Gobi José Rodrigo
Published: February 2019

O presente estudo tem como objetivo analisar o desenvolvimento regional do estado da Bahia entre os anos 2000 a 2010, relacionando o capital humano como um dos
condicionantes do desenvolvimento do estado. Para tanto, o trabalho utiliza como metodologia a
FATORES PRODUTIVOS E INTER-RELAÇÕES NA PRODUÇÃO DA CULTURA DA SOJA EM MATO GROSSO
Authors: Franco Cleiton
Published: February 2019

O trabalho tem por objetivo analisar as inter-relações entre os principais insumos utilizados no processo produtivo da cultura da soja convencional e transgênica em Mato Grosso e as suas possibilidades de substituição, por meio dos conceitos das elasticid
ANÁLISE ESPACIAL DA CRIMINALIDADE NO ESTADO DA BAHIA
Authors: Moreira Romilson do Carmo , Fochezatto Adelar
Published: February 2019

O presente estudo tem como objetivo analisar os determinantes da criminalidade no contexto espacial do estado da Bahia, verificando os fatores capazes de explicar a dinâmica da violência e o padrão de organização espacial nos municípios do estado. Criou-s
NEW BRAZILIAN FOREST CODE: CHANGES AND PROSPECTS
Authors: Covre Julyana , Clemente Felippe , Lirio Viviani Silva
Published: February 2019

Brazil adopted a new forest code in 2012 within environmentalists and farmers conflicts. However, specialists show that the new forest code may be more lenient with the rules to protect permanent preservation areas and legal reserves. Thus, this work aims
Wave separation and pipeline condition assessment using in-pipe fibre optic pressure sensors
Authors: Shi He , Gong Jinzhe , Cook Peter R. , Arkwright John W. , Png Gretel M. , Lambert Martin F. , Zecchin Aaron C. , Simpson Angus R.
Published: February 2019

The use of two pressure transducers in close proximity can enable the separation of the directional travelling pressure waves in pipelines. However, the implementation of this measurement strategy in real water pipes is difficult due to the lack of closely located access points. This paper reports the use of a customised in-pipe fibre optic pressure sensor array for hydraulic transient wave separation and pipeline condition assessment. The fibre optic pressure sensor array can be inserted into a pressurised pipeline through a single access point. The array consists of multiple fibre Bragg grating (FBG)-based pressure sensors in close proximity (∼0.5 m apart). A previously developed wave separation algorithm is adapted to analyse the transient pressure measurement from the FBG sensors. The resultant directional pressure waves are then used to detect pipe sections with a thinner wall thickness. A challenge is the influence of the in-pipe fibre optic sensing cable on the transient pressure measurement. The impact is analysed and adjustments to the pipeline condition assessment algorithm are undertaken to resolve the issue. The successful experimental application verifies the usefulness of the in-pipe fibre optic sensor array, which can facilitate transient-based pipeline condition assessment for buried water pipes with limited access points.
Multi-objective multi-pollutant waste load allocation model for rivers using coupled archived simulated annealing algorithm with QUAL2Kw
Authors: Saadatpour Motahareh , Afshar Abbas , Khoshkam Helaleh
Published: February 2019

A simulation-optimization approach is a suitable tool in waste load allocation problems when considering competing objectives and complex pollutant fate and transport processes in water bodies. Here, an archived multi-objective simulated annealing (AMOSA) algorithm is developed to determine various decision variables related to multi-pollutant waste load allocation (MPWLA) problems. The developed AMOSA algorithm has been coupled to QUAL2Kw in order to derive optimal MPWLA programs in Gheshlagh River, Kordestan, Iran. Minimizing wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) costs, improving the EquityMeasure, and enhancing water quality index (WQI) of the river have been considered as objective functions of MPWLA problems. The applied WQI integrates various water quality parameters (biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), NH4-N, NO3-N, PO4-P, total suspended solids (TSS), and Coliform) in monitoring stations along the river. Results show in the scenario with the best EquityMeasure, higher pollutant removal rates have been allocated to Sanandaj WWTP effluent and pollutant point source No. 7 (creek of landfill leachate) due to their greater contributions to Gheshlagh River contamination. Owing to high pollutant load effluents and unsuitable background conditions in Gheshlagh River, more specific studies show that the water quality index may not be improved over 0.22, no matter how much cost is incurred or equity is sacrificed.
Improve Healthcare Quality Through Mortality Committee: Retrospective Analysis of Bambino Gesù Children Hospital’s Ten Years’ Experience 2008-2017
Authors: Offidani Caterina , Lodise Maria , Gatto Vittorio , Frati Paola , D'Errico Stefano , Atti Marta L.C.D. , Raponi Massimiliano
Published: February 2019

Background:

Healthcare quality improvements are one of the most important goals to reach
a better and safer healthcare system. Reviewing in-hospital mortality data is useful to identify areas for
improvement, and to monitor the impact of actions taken to avoid preventable cases, such as those related
to healthcare associated infections (HAI).

Methods:

In this paper, we present the experience of the Mortality Committee of Bambino Gesù Children
Hospital (OPBG). OPBG has instituted a process of systematic revision of all in-hospital deaths
conducted by a multidisciplinary team. The goal is to identify system-wide issues that could be improved
to reduce in-hospital preventable deaths. In this way, the mortality review goes alongside all
the other risk management activities for the continuous quality improvement and patient safety.

Results:

In years 2008-2017, we performed a systematic analysis of 1148 inpatient deaths. In this time
period, the overall mortality rate was 0.4%. Forty-seven deaths were caused due to infections, 10 of
which involved patients with HAI transferred to OPBG from other facilities or patients with community-
acquired infections. Six deaths related to HAI were followed by claims compensations. All these
cases were not followed by compensation because the onset of HAI was considered an inevitable consequence
of the underlying disease.

Conclusion:

Introduction of the mortality review committee has proved to be a valid instrument to improve
the quality of the care provided in a hospital, allowing early identification of care gaps that could
lead to an increase in mortality rates.

Article Highlights Box:

Reduction of preventable deaths is one of the most important goals to be
achieved for any health-care system and to improve the quality of care.
• Several studies have shown that analysis of morbidity and mortality rate helps to detect any factors
that can lead to an increase in in-hospital mortality rates.
• The review of in-hospital deaths allows to learn how to improve the quality and safety of care
through identification of critical issues that lead to an increase in mortality ratio.
• In some medical areas, such as intensive care units or surgery, the implementation of the conference
on mortality and morbidity is more useful for assessing procedures at high risk of errors.
• The implementation of existing databases with data deriving from the systematic review of medical
records and in-hospital deaths appears to be desirable.
• Mortality Review Committees can represent a very useful tool for all the health facilities for the reduction
of preventable deaths, such as those related to HAI.
Anti-cancer Effects of Curcumin on Myelodysplastic Syndrome through the Inhibition of Enhancer of Zeste Homolog-2 (EZH2)
Authors: Ma Ling , Zhang Xia , Wang Zhiqiong , Huang Lifang , Meng Fankai , Hu Lihua , Chen Yan , Wei Jia
Published: February 2019

Background:

Enhancer of zeste homolog-2 (EZH2), a histone methyltransferase that regulates histone H3 methylation of lysine27 (H3K27me3), is involved in the pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Targeting epigenetic regulators has been identified as a potential treatment target in MDS chemotherapy. Curcumin, a natural compound extracted from turmeric, was found to possess a wide range of anticancer activities in various tumors.

Methods:

This study was designed to investigate the inhibitory effect and action mechanism of curcumin in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) in vitro and in vivo.

Results:

Our results showed that curcumin can significantly suppress cell proliferation and induce cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in human MDS-derived cell lines. It reduced EZH2, DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3a), ASXL1 and downstream H3K4me3, H3K27me3 and HOXA9 expression and inhibited EZH2 and H3K27me3 nuclear translocation. Curcumin also showed anti-cancer effects in a xenograft mouse model and reduced EZH2, H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 in vivo. EZH2 knockdown can reduce the H3K27me3 levels and induce curcumin resistance in vitro but attenuates leukemic transformation in vivo.

Conclusion:

These findings provide the potential molecular mechanism of curcumin as a therapeutic agent for MDS.
Mathematical and Computational Techniques for Drug Discovery: Promises and Developments
Authors: Balasubramanian Krishnan
Published: February 2019

We review various mathematical and computational techniques for drug discovery exemplifying
some recent works pertinent to group theory of nested structures of relevance to phylogeny, topological,
computational and combinatorial methods for drug discovery for multiple viral infections. We
have reviewed techniques from topology, combinatorics, graph theory and knot theory that facilitate
topological and mathematical characterizations of protein-protein interactions, molecular-target interactions,
proteomics, genomics and statistical data reduction procedures for a large set of starting chemicals
in drug discovery. We have provided an overview of group theoretical techniques pertinent to phylogeny,
protein dynamics especially in intrinsically disordered proteins, DNA base permutations and
related algorithms. We consider computational techniques derived from high level quantum chemical
computations such as QM/MM ONIOM methods, quantum chemical optimization of geometries complexes,
and molecular dynamics methods for providing insights into protein-drug interactions. We have
considered complexes pertinent to Hepatitis Virus C non-structural protein 5B polymerase receptor
binding of C5-Arylidebne rhodanines, complexes of synthetic potential vaccine molecules with dengue
virus (DENV) and HIV-1 virus as examples of various simulation studies that exemplify the utility of
computational tools. It is demonstrated that these combinatorial and computational techniques in conjunction
with experiments can provide promising new insights into drug discovery. These techniques
also demonstrate the need to consider a new multiple site or allosteric binding approach to drug discovery,
as these studies reveal the existence of multiple binding sites.
Synthesis, Antimalarial Evaluation and SAR Study of Some 1,3,5-Trisubstituted Pyrazoline Derivatives
Authors: Aggarwal Shilpy , Paliwal Deepika , Kaushik Dhirender , Gupta Girish Kumar , Kumar Ajay
Published: February 2019

The synthesis of a novel series of 1,3,5-trisubstitiuted pyrazoline was achieved by refluxing chalcone derivative with different heteroaryl hydrazines. The newly synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13CNMR, mass spectral and elemental analysis data. The synthetic series of novel pyrazoline hybrids was screened for in vitro schizont maturation assay against chloroquine sensitive 3D7 strain of Plasmodium falciparum. Most of the compounds showed promising in vitro antimalarial activity against CQ sensitive strain. The preliminary structure-activity relationship study showed that quinoline substituted analog at position N-1 showed maximum activity followed by benzothiazole substitution, while phenyl substitution lowers the antimalarial activity. The observed activity was persistent by the docking study on P. falciparum cystein protease falcipain-2. The pharmacokinetic properties were also studied using ADME prediction.
COPD and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Mamillapalli Chaitanya , Tentu Ramesh , Jain Nitesh Kumar , Bhandari Ramanath
Published: February 2019

COPD and Type 2 diabetes are two highly prevalent global health conditions associated with high mortality and morbidity. The connection between these two common diseases is complex, and more research is required for further understanding of these conditions. COPD is being increasingly recognized as a risk factor for the development of type2 diabetes through different mechanisms including systemic inflammation, obesity, hypoxia and use of corticosteroids. Also, hyperglycemia in diabetes patients is linked to the adverse impact on lung physiology, and a possible increase in the risk of COPD. In this review article, we discuss the studies demonstrating the associations between COPD and Type 2 Diabetes, underlying pathophysiology and recommended therapeutic approach in the management of patients with coexisting COPD and diabetes.
Understanding the Role of Chlorine and Ozone to Control Postharvest Diseases in Fruit and Vegetables: A Review
Authors: Baia Gabriela M. , Freitas-Silva Otniel , Junior Murillo F.
Published: February 2019

Fruits and vegetables are foods that come into contact with various types of microorganisms
from planting to their consumption. A lack or poor sanitation of these products after harvest can
cause high losses due to deterioration and/ or pathogenic microorganisms. There are practically no
post-harvest fungicides or bactericides with a broad spectrum of action that have no toxic residual effects
and are safe. However, to minimize such problems, the use of sanitizers is an efficient device
against these microorganisms. Chlorine is the most prevalent sanitizing agent because of its broad
spectrum, low cost and well-established practices. However, the inevitable formation of disinfection
by-products, such as trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), is considered one of the
main threats to food safety. Alternative sanitizers, such as chlorine dioxide (ClO2) and ozone, are becoming
popular as a substitute for traditional post-harvest treatments. Thus, this review addresses the
use of chlorine, chlorine dioxide and ozone emphasizing aspects, such as usage, safe application,
spectrum of action and legislation. In order to ensure the quality and safety of final products, the
adoption of well-prepared sanitation and sanitation programs for post-harvest fruits and vegetables is
essential.
Antibacterial Evaluation of Novel Substituted Cycloheptaindoles in Staphylococcus and Enterococcus Strains
Authors: Hilgeroth Andreas , Yasrebi Kaveh , Suzen Sibel , Hertlein Tobias , Ohlsen Knut , Lalk Michael
Published: February 2019

Background:

Due to emerging resistances against antibiotics there is a strong need to
find novel antibacterial agents with a novel structure to prevent early resistance developments.

Objective:

Bisindole compounds with antibacterial activities which formally result from the reaction
of an aldehyde with indole motivated to investigate the reaction of a dialdehyde and indole to
give novel structures with potential antibacterial activities.

Methods:

Compounds were yielded by chemical synthesis and purified using column chromatography.
The antibacterial activity was determined as minimal inhibitory growth activity in cultures
of Gram-positive strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus species.

Results:

Cyclohepta[2,3-b]indoles have been yielded in a one-step reaction procedure with indole
substitutions at the cycloheptane central core matching a solution for achieving fused novel cycloalkane
indoles with functionalized residues of promising biological activity. So far fused cycloalkane
indoles have not been available in a one-step procedure and moreover, core functionalizations
have been additional challenges. Various indole substitutions have been done to provide a
first set of compounds.

Conclusion:

Substituent-dependent effects have been suggested to influence the antibacterial activity
and first compounds were identified with specific Staphylococcus activities and Enterococcus
species effects towards Enterococcus faecalis as critical pathogens in the hospital with upcoming
resistances against standard antibiotics.
Antiglycation Activity of Triazole Schiff’s Bases Against Fructosemediated Glycation: In Vitro and In Silico Study
Authors: Shaikh Muniza , Siddiqui Salman , Zafar Humaira , Naqeeb Uzma , Subzwari Fakiha , Imad Rehan , Khan Khalid M. , Choudhary Muhammad I.
Published: February 2019

Background:

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are known to be involved in the pathophysiology of diabetic complications, neurodegenerative diseases, and aging. Preventing the formation of AGEs can be helpful in the management of these diseases.

Objective:

Two classes of previously synthesized traizole Schiff’s bases (4H-1,2,4-triazole-4- Schiff’s bases 1-14, and 4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-Schiff’s bases 15-23) were evaluated for their in vitro antiglycation activity.

Methods:

In vitro fructose-mediated human serum albumin (HSA) glycation assay was employed to assess the antiglycation activity of triazole Schiff’s bases. The active compounds were subjected to cytotoxicity analysis by MTT assay on mouse fibroblast (3T3) cell line. Molecular docking and simulation studies were carried out to evaluate the interactions and stability of compounds with HSA. Anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant activities of selected non-cytotoxic compounds were evaluated by in vitro α-glucosidase inhibition, and DPPH free radical scavenging assays, respectively.

Results:

Compound 1 (IC50=47.30±0.38 µM) from 4H-1,2,4-triazole-4-Schiff’s bases has exhibited antiglycation activity comparable to standard rutin (IC50=54.5±0.05 µM) along with a stable RMSD profile in MD simulation studies. Compound 1 also exhibited a potent α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, and moderate antioxidant property. Other derivatives showed a weak antiglycation activity with IC50 values between 248.1-637.7 µM. Compounds with potential antiglycation profile were found to be non-cytotoxic in a cellular assay.

Conclusion:

The study identifies triazole Schiff’s bases active against fructose-mediated glycation of HSA, thus indicates their potential against late diabetic complications due to production of advancedend products (AGEs).
Analysis of Comparative Proteomic and Potent Targets of Peniciketal A in Human Acute Monocytic Leukemia
Authors: Gao Xue , Zhou Yuming , Sun Hongliu , Liu Desheng , Zhang Jing , Zhang Junru , Liu Weizhong , Pan Xiaohong
Published: February 2019

Background:

Peniciketal A (Pe-A), a spiroketal compound, shows potent anticancer activities in human acute monocytic leukemia. However, the detailed mechanisms and potent targets of Pe-A remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigated the differentially expressed proteins between the Pe-A-treated group and the control group on human acute monocytic leukemia cell line THP-1.

Methods:

The DEPs were analyzed by the liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with TMT label. The function and feature of the identified proteins were analyzed by the bioinformatic analysis. Western blotting was used to evaluate protein expression.

Results:

The DEPs were primarily sub located in the cytoplasm and the nucleus by regulating 21 pathways enriched through the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Moreover, we preliminarily demonstrated that glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase (G6PD), prolow-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) and Calreticulin (CALR) might be the potent targets of Pe-A on death induction of THP-1 cells.

Conclusion:

Collectively, this study not only provides a global proteomic profile as the supplementary data of our previous studies but also provides interesting information that Pe-A may exert more bio-activities.
Impact of the Fontan Operation on Organ Systems
Authors: Michel Miriam , Zlamy Manuela , Entenmann Andreas , Pichler Karin , Scholl-Bürgi Sabine , Karall Daniela , Geiger Ralf , Salvador Christina , Niederwanger Christian , Ohuchi Hideo
Published: February 2019

:

In patients having undergone the Fontan operation, besides the well discussed changes in
the cardiac, pulmonary and gastrointestinal system, alterations of further organ systems including
the hematologic, immunologic, endocrinological and metabolic are reported. As a medical adjunct
to Fontan surgery, the systematic study of the central role of the liver as a metabolizing and synthesizing
organ should allow for a better understanding of the pathomechanism underlying the typical
problems in Fontan patients, and in this context, the profiling of endocrinological and metabolic
patterns might offer a tool for the optimization of Fontan follow-up, targeted monitoring and
specific adjunct treatment.
Invasive Fungal Infection in Febrile Patients with Hematologic Malignancies Undergoing Chemotherapy in Iran
Authors: Sheikhbahaei Saba , Mohammadi Alireza , Sherkat Roya , Naeini Alireza Emami , Yaran Majid , Najafi Somaye
Published: February 2019

Background:

Patients with hematological malignancies undergoing cytotoxic chemotherapy
are susceptible to develop invasive fungal infections particularly Aspergillus and Candida spp. Early
detection of these infections is required to start immediate antifungal therapy and increase the survival
of these patients.

Method:

Our study included consecutive patients of any age with hematologic malignancies who were
hospitalized to receive chemotherapy and suffer from persistent fever (rectal temperature >38.5°C) for
more than 5 days despite receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics. A whole blood sample was taken and
sent for blood culture. PCR was also conducted for Aspergillus and Candida species.

Results:

One hundred and two patients were investigated according to the inclusion criteria. The most
common hematologic malignancy was AML affecting 38 patients (37.2%). Six patients were diagnosed
with invasive fungal infections (A. fumigatus n=3, C. albicans n=2, A. flavus n=1) by PCR
(5.8%) while blood culture showed fungus only in 1 patient. Three more cases were known as probable
IFI since they responded to antifungal therapy but the PCR result was negative for them. AML was the
most prevalent malignancy in IFI patients (83.3%) and odds ratio for severing neutropenia was 21.5.
Odds for each of the baseline characteristics of patients including gender, age>60, diabetes mellitus,
previous IFI, history of using more than 3 antibiotics, antifungal prophylaxis, episodes of chemotherapy>
8 and chemotherapy regimen of daunarubicin+cytarabine were calculated.

Conclusion:

We found that multiplex real-time PCR assay is more accurate than blood culture in detecting
fungal species and the results are prepared sooner. Among all factors, the only type of cancer
(AML) and severe neutropenia, were found to be risk factors for the development of fungal infections
in all hematologic cancer patients and previous IFI was a risk factor only AML patients.
A Review on Enteric Coated Pellets Composed of Core Pellets Prepared by Extrusion-Spheronization
Authors: Patel Hetal , Gohel Mukesh
Published: February 2019

Enteric coated dosage form bypasses the stomach and releases the drug into the small intestine.
Advantages of enteric coated pellets in comparison with enteric coated tablets are a) Pellets provide
rapid onset of action and faster drug release due to the smaller size than tablets and b) Pellets exhibit
less residence time of acid-labile drugs in the stomach compared to tablets. Dosage form coat can
be damaged by longer resistance time in the stomach. The present review summarizes the current state
of enteric coated pellets where core pellets are prepared by extrusion-spheronization technique and the
enteric coating is applied in a fluidized bed processor. Two approaches are involved in the preparation
of core pellets. In the first approach, a mixture of drug and excipient(s)/co-processed excipient is
passed through extruders to prepare core pellets. In the second approach, excipient core pellets are
prepared by extrusion technique and the drug is layered onto it before the enteric coating. The excipients
present in the core pellets decide immediate or extended release of drug in the intestine. The coprocessed
excipient pellets provide less batch variability and provide a platform for layering of many
drugs before enteric coating. Some patents included enteric coating pellets [CN105456223 (A),
CN105596310 (A), CN105616371 (A), CN105663095 (A), CN101611766B, CN106511862 (A),
CN106668018 (A), CN106727381 (A), CN106924222 (A), TW200624127 (A), US 2017/0165248A1,
US 2017/0224720A1] are discussed.
Development of Eco-Magnesium Based Composite with Enhanced Mechanical, Damping and Ignition Properties
Authors: Parande Gururaj , Gupta Manoj , Manakari Vyasaraj , Kopparthy Sripathi D.S.
Published: February 2019

Background:

Magnesium alloys and nanocomposites have been of great importance to automotive,
aerospace and marine industries owing to their superior specific mechanical properties, impact
resistance, superior damping capacities, and biocompatibility. Low-cost manufacturing of magnesium-
based materials is the key to realize the high impact. We reviewed patents relating to production
of magnesium- based materials using low cost techniques.

Objective:

Recent trends in the field of magnesium technology has driven researchers to develop magnesium
materials applicable in both structural and biomedical applications. Incorporation of biocompatible
secondary reinforcements into the magnesium matrix is important to meet the current requirements.

Methods:

In the current study, low cost naturally available eggshell particles are reinforced into magnesium-
zinc alloy using powder metallurgy technique assisted microwave sintering technique and
tested for a mechanical, thermal and damping response.

Results:

Addition of eggshell improved the grain size of the Mg2.5Zn alloy by ~60%. The microhardness
values of Mg2.5Zn10ES composite is 73 Hv which is a significant 30% improvement when
compared to Mg2.5Zn alloy (56 Hv). Enhanced thermal stability was observed with the presence of
eggshell as Mg2.5Zn10ES composite did not self-ignite even at a temperature of 750°C. The compressive
yield strength of the composite was ~25% greater than the alloy owing to superior grain refinement
of ~60%.

Conclusion:

The presence of eggshell particles assisted in refining the microstructure, thereby significantly
enhancing the compression properties of the Mg-2.5Zn alloy and led to a better thermal and
dimensional stability of the synthesized composites. Structure-property correlations are drawn to understand
the behavior of the composites.