bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-year clinical outcomes of relapsing multiple sclerosis patients treated with dimethyl fumarate in a United States community health center
Authors: Smoot Kyle , Spinelli Kateri J , Stuchiner Tamela , Lucas Lindsay , Chen Chiayi , Grote Lois , Baraban Elizabeth , Kresa-Reahl Kiren , Cohan Stanley
Published: May 2017

Background:

Following approval of dimethyl fumarate (DMF), we established a registry of relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) patients taking DMF at our community MS center.

Objective:

To track DMF patients’ tolerability, disease progression, and lymphopenia.

Methods:

Patients prescribed DMF for RMS from March 2013 to March 2016 were prospectively enrolled ( N = 412). Baseline data, clinical relapses, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) activity, discontinuation, and lymphocyte counts were captured through chart review.

Results:

The mean age of patients starting DMF was 49.4 ± 12.0 years and 70% transitioned from a previous disease-modifying therapy (DMT). Of the patients, 38% discontinued DMF, 76% of whom discontinued due to side effects. Clinical relapse and MRI activity were low. Comparing patients who transitioned from interferon-β (IFN), glatiramer acetate (GA), or natalizumab (NTZ), patients previously on NTZ had higher rates of relapse than those previously on GA (annualized relapse rate p = 0.039, percent relapse p = 0.021). Grade III lymphopenia developed in 11% of patients. Lymphopenia was associated with older age ( p < 0.001) and longer disease duration ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Given the high rates of lymphopenia and discontinuation, it has become our clinical practice to more closely scrutinize older patients and those with a longer disease duration who are potential candidates for initiating DMF therapy.
Cerebrospinal fluid neurofilament light levels mark grey matter volume in clinically isolated syndrome suggestive of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Tortorella Carla , Direnzo Vita , Ruggieri Maddalena , Zoccolella Stefano , Mastrapasqua Mariangela , D’Onghia Mariangela , Paolicelli Damiano , Dicuonzo Franca , Gasperini Claudio , Trojano Maria
Published: May 2017

Background:

Brain atrophy is a known marker of irreversible tissue damage in multiple sclerosis (MS). Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) osteopontin (OPN) and neurofilament light chain (NF-L) have been proposed as candidate surrogate markers of inflammatory and neurodegenerative processes in MS.

Objective:

To evaluate the relationship between CSF NF-L and OPN levels and brain grey and white matter volumes in patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) suggestive of MS.

Methods:

A total of 41 CIS patients and 30 neurological controls (NCs) were included. CSF NF-L and OPN were measured by commercial ELISA. Measures of brain volume (normalized brain volume (NBV), normalized grey matter volume (NGV), peripheral grey matter volume (PGV), normalized white matter volume (WMV), and ventricular volume) were obtained by SIENAX. Corpus callosum index (CCI) was calculated. Brain volumes were categorized into ‘high’ and ‘low’ according to the median value.

Results:

CSF NF-L and OPN levels were higher in CIS patients in comparison with NCs. CIS patients with ‘low’ TGV, PGV, and TBV showed higher CSF NF-L levels than CIS patients with ‘high’ brain volumes. TGV and PGV correlated inversely with NF-L levels, whereas CCI was inversely related to OPN levels. CSF NF-L was the only independent predictor of TGV and PGV.

Conclusion:

CSF NF-L tracks mainly grey matter damage in patients with CIS suggestive of MS.
Remote autopsy services: A feasibility study on nine cases
Authors: Vodovnik Aleksandar , Aghdam Mohammad Reza F , Espedal Dan Gøran
Published: May 2017

Introduction

We have conducted a feasibility study on remote autopsy services in order to increase the flexibility of the service with benefits for teaching and interdepartmental collaboration.

Methods

Three senior staff pathologists, one senior autopsy technician and one junior resident participated in the study. Nine autopsies were performed by the autopsy technician or resident, supervised by the primary pathologist, through the secure, double encrypted video link using Jabber Video (Cisco) with a high-speed broadband connection. The primary pathologist and autopsy room each connected to the secure virtual meeting room using 14″ laptops with in-built cameras (Hewlett-Packard). A portable high-definition web camera (Cisco) was used in the autopsy room. Primary and secondary pathologists independently interpreted and later compared gross findings for the purpose of quality assurance. The video was streamed live only during consultations and interpretation. A satisfaction survey on technical and professional aspects of the study was conducted.

Results

Independent interpretations of gross findings between primary and secondary pathologists yielded full agreement. A definite cause of death in one complex autopsy was determined following discussions between pathologists and reviews of the clinical notes. Our satisfaction level with the technical and professional aspects of the study was 87% and 97%, respectively.

Discussion

Remote autopsy services are found to be feasible in the hands of experienced staff, with increased flexibility and interest of autopsy technicians in the service as a result.
Maugeri Centre for Telehealth and Telecare: A real-life integrated experience in chronic patients
Authors: Scalvini Simonetta , Bernocchi Palmira , Zanelli Emanuela , Comini Laura , Vitacca Michele ,   on behalf of the Maugeri Centre for Telehealth and Telecare (MCTT)
Published: May 2017

Management of chronic diseases in a progressively aging population is a major issue in western industrialized countries and telehealth is one way to ensure the continuity of care in chronic illness. We describe here our personal experience in a telehealth and telecare centre in Italy. Between January 2000 and December 2015, 1635 elderly patients (71% male) with one or more comorbidities have undergone a telehealth program tailored to their specific disease: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)/chronic respiratory insufficiency; amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/neuromuscular diseases; chronic heart failure (CHF); post-stroke; and post-cardiac surgery patients discharged from hospital after an acute event. COPD and CHF represent the majority of patients treated (accounting for 80%). Interventions performed by the nurse tutor account for 39–82% of all activities in the five different programs. Specialist second opinion represents 12–27% of the health staff activities. Previously reported results show a reduction of the re-hospitalization rate and costs, and increase in quality of life and patient satisfaction with the service. A multidisciplinary telehealth and telecare integrated approach can provide efficient management for the growing number of complex patients.
Facilitating resident community in nursing homes: a slippery slope? An analysis on collectivistic and individualistic approaches
Authors: Ågotnes Gudmund , Øye Christine
Published: May 2017

Residents in nursing homes are old and frail and are dependent on constant care, medical, or otherwise, by trained professionals. But they are also social beings, secluded in an institutional setting which is both total and foreign. In this setting, most of the residents most of the time must relate to other residents: other residents are the nursing home residents’ peers, companions, and perhaps even significant others. In this article, we will discuss how resident communities in nursing homes are influenced by the approaches of nursing home staff. Two nursing homes have been included in this article—one from Canada and one from Norway. Participant observation was conducted at these two nursing homes, predominantly focusing on everyday-life activities. The cases from Norway and Canada are illustrative of two very different general approaches to residents: one collectivistic and one individualistic. These general approaches produce different contexts for the formation and content of resident communities, greatly affecting nursing home residents. The significance of these approaches to resident community is profound and also somewhat unanticipated; the approaches of staff provide residents with different opportunities and limitations and also yield unintended consequences for the social life of residents. The two different general approaches are, we suggest, “cultural expressions,” conditioned by more than official preferences and recommendations. The difference between the institutions is, in other words, anchored in ideas and ideologies that are not explicitly addressed.
‘A house divided’
Authors: White Mimi
Published: May 2017

HGTV (Home and Garden Television) is an American cable channel devoted to property TV, with programs that combine lifestyle and reality, demonstrating the rewards of home investments. Despite the focus on domestic property and the well-styled home, the programs are generally considered bland, and the cumulative impact of the network’s simple, formulaic programs is considered relaxing and even comforting. But some HGTV programs prominently feature domestic conflict as part of their repetitive narrative formula, disturbing the domestic ideals that the network promotes. While pat endings for individual episodes restore domestic harmony and unity through new (or renewed) domestic space, domestic disputes serve as a persistent reminder of everyday domestic discontent. This emerges in the shows with narratives that highlight conflict – House Hunters, House Hunters International and Love It or List It. But the implications resonate further in the context of the broader esthetic-textual dynamics of HGTV. Repetition within episodes, between episodes of any given show, among many different shows, and in the programming schedule makes the ‘happy endings’ as transitory as the domestic disputes that dominate individual episodes. HGTV programs are lifestyle–reality hybrids that promote quality lifestyle through reality-styled drama. The same textual strategies that demonstrate quality lifestyle also open the door to a lingering sense of domestic unease.
Rethinking the generational gap in online news use: An infrastructural perspective
Authors: Taneja Harsh , Wu Angela Xiao , Edgerly Stephanie
Published: May 2017

Our study investigates the role of infrastructures in shaping online news usage by contrasting use patterns of two social groups—millennials and boomers—that are specifically located in news infrastructures. Typically based on self-reported data, popular press and academics tend to highlight the generational gap in news usage and link it to divergence in values and preferences of the two age cohorts. In contrast, we conduct relational analyses of shared usage obtained from passively metered usage data across a vast range of online news outlets for millennials and boomers. We compare each cohort’s usage networks comprising various types of news websites. Our analyses reveal a smaller than commonly assumed generational gap in online news usage, with characteristics that manifest the multifarious effects of the infrastructures of the media environment, alongside those of preferences.
Convict shame to convict chic: Intergenerational memory and family histories
Authors: Barnwell Ashley
Published: May 2017

This article highlights the significance of family history research for memory studies. It provides an overview of the economic and cultural impact of this popular practice as well as a survey of the interdisciplinary field of research emerging around questions of genealogy and identity. It then develops a framework for engaging with the intergenerational, socially responsive memory work of family historians drawing from Paul Connerton’s typography of forgetting, Maurice Halbwach’s theory of social memory and Karl Mannheim’s notion of generations. The article grounds this framework with a case study about generational conflicts in Australian family histories, specifically around the shifting status of the convict ancestor, from a figure of secrecy and shame to one of pride and intrigue. I argue that family history research reveals the process by which generations have shaped memory, editing ‘the family narrative’ in response to changing social ideas about which kinds of identities and families hold value and promise. The names and dates on family trees therefore tell the stories not just of a discrete set of individuals but also of how social, national and generational interests interlink to produce the narratives we live by in both intimate and public spheres.
Perceived determinants to alcohol consumption and misuse: a survey of university students
Authors: Muli Nicholas , Lagan Briege M
Published: May 2017

Aim:

Before an attempt is made to develop any population-specific behavioural change programme, it is important to know what the factors that influence behaviours are. The aim of this study was to identify what are the perceived determinants that attribute to young people’s choices to both consume and misuse alcohol.

Method:

Using a descriptive survey design, a web-based questionnaire based on the Theory of Triadic Influence was administered to students aged 18–29 years at one university in Northern Ireland.

Results:

Out of the total respondents ( n = 595), knowledge scores on alcohol consumption and the health risks associated with heavy episodic drinking were high (92.4%, n = 550). Over half (54.1%, n = 322) cited the Internet as their main source for alcohol-related information. The three most perceived influential factors of inclination to misuse alcohol were strains/conflict within the family home ( M = 2.98, standard deviation ( SD) = 0.18, 98.7%, n = 587), risk taking/curiosity behaviour ( M = 2.97, SD = 0.27, 97.3%, n = 579) and the desire not to be socially alienated ( M = 2.94, SD = 0.33, 96%, n = 571). Females were statistically significantly more likely to be influenced by desire not to be socially alienated than males (  p = .029). Religion and personal reasons were the most commonly cited reasons for not drinking.

Conclusion:

Future initiatives to reduce alcohol misuse and alcohol-related harms need to focus on changing social normative beliefs and attitudes around alcohol consumption and the family and environmental factors that influence the choice of young adult’s alcohol drinking behaviour. Investment in multi-component interventions may be a useful approach.
Health impact assessment on urban development projects in France: finding pathways to fit practice to context
Authors: Roué-Le Gall Anne , Jabot Françoise
Published: May 2017

In France, there is increasing interest in health impact assessments (HIAs) and most are performed on urban projects. The field of expertise is still under development and mostly established within the public health sector. To date, in France, all HIAs conducted in urban planning are stand-alone HIAs disconnected from the required environmental impact assessment (EIA). The paper opens with an introduction of the close and complex relationship between health and urban planning, HIA and a description of key elements needed for understanding the French context. Then, the paper analyses the context and the implementation process for four HIAs in progress in order to understand the specific characteristics of urban development, identify the key stages for introducing a health perspective into urban projects, and extract avenues to be explored when adapting HIAs applied to urban planning in France. Using a qualitative multiple case study design, an analysis framework was built to compare several aspects of the four HIAs and made it possible to highlight three pathways for adapting HIA to the urban planning sector: the schedule, links between the EIA and HIA, and the complementarity of the initiatives to involve residents. Legal measures enable a point of contact that brings health institutions and cities closer together. HIA is yet another tool that public authorities now have at their fingertips to work together in strengthening democracy and in reducing social, geographical and environmental health inequalities. More research must be undertaken to develop an understanding of the practice-related context; to judge HIA’s capacity to draw on existing approaches in different fields; and to explore the different avenues leading to increased health, wellbeing and equity.
Seven-Year Course of Borderline Personality Disorder Features: Borderline Pathology Is as Unstable as Depression During Adolescence
Authors: Conway Christopher C. , Hipwell Alison E. , Stepp Stephanie D.
Published: May 2017

Borderline personality disorder (PD) historically is construed as an unremitting condition with poor prognosis. In the present study we take a new approach to examining stability and change in borderline PD by explaining symptom expression in terms of an unchanging foundation—termed borderline proneness—on one hand, and transitory influences on the other. We monitored borderline PD symptoms annually in a large sample of high-risk adolescent girls ( N = 2,450) from ages 14 to 20. Trait-state-occasion modeling revealed that just more than half (52%–57%) of borderline PD symptom variation was attributable to fixed borderline proneness, whereas the remainder was subject to change across yearly measurement occasions. This degree of stability was no larger than the corresponding estimate for depression, a condition known for its variable course. Our results indicate that, contrary to its reputation, borderline pathology is not set in stone, and it fluctuates in response to situational influences.
Predictors of Postdeployment Functioning in Combat-Exposed U.S. Military Veterans
Authors: Disner Seth G. , Kramer Mark D. , Nelson Nathaniel W. , Lipinski Alexandra J. , Christensen Julia M. , Polusny Melissa A. , Sponheim Scott R.
Published: May 2017

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and sequelae of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) are presumed to contribute to reintegration difficulties in combat-exposed veterans. Yet their relative impacts on postdeployment functioning are not well understood. The current study used structural equation modeling (SEM) to clarify the extent to which symptoms of internalizing disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety), mTBI symptoms, and cognitive performance are associated with functional impairment in 295 combat-exposed veterans. SEM results showed that internalizing symptoms most significantly predicted functional impairment ( r = 0.72). Blast mTBI and cognitive performance were associated with internalizing ( r = 0.24 and −0.25, respectively), but functional impairment was only modestly related to cognition ( r = −0.17) and unrelated to mTBI. These results indicate that internalizing symptoms are the strongest predictor of functioning in trauma-exposed veterans, exceeding the effects of mTBI and cognitive performance. This evidence supports prioritizing interventions that target internalizing psychopathology to improve functioning in cases of co-occurring PTSD and mTBI.
Patterns of Statin Use in Older Medicare Beneficiaries With Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Khokhar Bilal , Simoni-Wastila Linda , Slejko Julia F. , Perfetto Eleanor , Zhan Min , Smith Gordon S.
Published: May 2017

Background: In addition to lowering lipids, statins also may be beneficial for older adults sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI), as statin use prior to and following trauma may decrease mortality following injury. However, despite statins’ potential to reduce mortality, there is limited research regarding statin use among older adults. Objective: To characterize and investigate factors associated with statin use among older adults with TBI. Methods: A retrospective drug utilization study was used to characterize statin use among Medicare beneficiaries 65 and older hospitalized with a TBI during 2006 to 2010 and with continuous Medicare Parts A, B, and D coverage 6 months prior and 12 months following TBI. Logistic regression was used to investigate the factors associated with statin use. The exposure of interest was statin use prior to and following TBI. Results: Of the 75 698 beneficiaries included in the study, 37 874 (~50%) of beneficiaries used a statin at least once during the study period. The most common statin used was simvastatin, while fluvastatin was the least used statin. Statin users were more likely to have cardiovascular diseases when compared to nonusers. Hyperlipidemia was a major factor associated with statin use and had the greatest impact on statin use compared to nonuse (odds ratio = 9.54; 95% confidence interval = 9.07, 10.03). Conclusions: This national sample of older adults with TBI suggests that statins are commonly used. Future studies must next examine the impact of statin use on mortality and secondary injury in order to shape pharmacological therapy guidelines following TBI.
Improved outcomes in ex-smokers with COPD: a UK primary care observational cohort study
Authors: Josephs Lynn , Culliford David , Johnson Matthew , Thomas Mike
Published: May 2017

Smoking cessation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) reduces accelerated forced expiratory volume in 1 s decline, but impact on key health outcomes is less clear. We studied the relationship of smoking status to mortality and hospitalisation in a UK primary care COPD population.

Using patient-anonymised routine data in the Hampshire Health Record Analytical Database, we identified a prevalent COPD cohort, categorising patients by smoking status (current, ex- or never-smokers). Three outcomes were measured over 3 years (2011–2013): all-cause mortality, respiratory-cause unplanned hospital admission and respiratory-cause emergency department attendance. Survival analysis using multivariable Cox regression after multiple imputation was used to estimate hazard ratios for each outcome by smoking status, adjusting for measured confounders (including age, lung function, socioeconomic deprivation, inhaled medication and comorbidities).

We identified 16 479 patients with COPD, mean±sdage 70.1±11.1 years. Smoking status was known in 91.3%: 35.1% active smokers, 54.3% ex-smokers, 1.9% never-smokers. Active smokers predominated among younger patients. Compared with active smokers (n=5787), ex-smokers (n=8941) had significantly reduced risk of death, hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) 0.78 (0.70–0.87), hospitalisation, 0.82 (0.74–0.89) and emergency department attendance, 0.78 (0.70–0.88).

After adjusting for confounders, ex-smokers had significantly better outcomes, emphasising the importance of effective smoking cessation support, regardless of age or lung function.
Shake Table Testing of Seismically Restrained Clay-Brick Masonry Parapets
Authors: Giaretton Marta , Dizhur Dmytro , Ingham Jason
Published: May 2017

Past seismic events, such as the 1994 Northridge earthquake, the 2001 Nis-qually earthquake, and the 2010/2011 Canterbury earthquakes, have repeatedly served as reminders of the hazards posed by unreinforced masonry parapets. Observed failure modes have included several cases where adopted retrofit techniques were inadequate to effectively secure parapets during earthquake-induced shaking. In response, this paper investigates, by means of shake table testing, the dynamic behavior of nine clay-brick masonry parapets with commonly used bracing systems and alternative securing techniques, such as post-tensioning and combined braces and vertical strong-backs. Seismic capacity was improved 6 to 8 times compared to the as-built postcracked condition. The addition of vertical strong-backs further improved the performance of braced parapets, with capacity increased 12 times compared to as-built parapets. Parapet construction and retrofit procedures are presented, followed by a discussion of the developed failure modes as well as the response of the retrofitted parapets.
O VALOR DO LETRAMENTO NA GÊNESE DO CONTADOR: UMA VISÃO DA APRENDIZAGEM EM CURSO DE CIÊNCIAS CONTÁBEIS DO ENSINO SUPERIOR
Authors: Araujo Francisco Sérgio Souza de
Published: May 2017

Este estudo investigou o processo de letramento na aquisição de conhecimento durante a formação do contador em IES particular na cidade de Fortaleza – Ceará, apurando, entre estudantes do terceiro, quarto e oitavo semestres do Curso de Ciências Contábeis, letramento anterior ao curso e durante sua duração e, ainda, averiguando sua importância na formação profissional. Para a realização da pesquisa, utilizou-se o método bibliográfico; a pesquisa é um “estudo de caso”, que utilizou como técnica de pesquisa um questionário. Entende-se que tenha abordagem quali-quantitativa, uma vez que os dados coletados permitiram não somente interpretação estatística, porém inferências a partir das informações coletadas. Pela amostra, compreende-se apresentar neste estudo resultados parciais, possibilitando mesmo outras investigações no próprio curso da IES, bem como análises comparativas com inquirições existentes em outras instituições. Mesmo em caráter parcial, constatou-se haver problemas de letramento dos estudantes, em parte advindos da Educação Básica, influenciando a formação superior.
RESPONSABILIDADE SOCIAL INTERNA: ESTUDO DA GESTÃO DE PESSOAS DE UMA CONSTRUTORA DE FORTALEZA
Authors: Amorim Andriele Pinto de , Capelo Milena Cirino
Published: May 2017

A responsabilidade social tem sido inserida nas organizações como resultado de mudanças sociais que as impactam fortemente. Nesse contexto, a gestão empresarial passa a ter engajamento em ações que visam minimizar os impactos socioambientais decorrentes do crescimento. No entanto, autores que debatem o tema da responsabilidade social chamam atenção para o fato de que a empresa sustentável busca um equilíbrio entre atuação externa e interna. Neste sentido, requer-se uma reflexão sobre como as empresas podem promover a responsabilidade social para os colaboradores. Este estudo propõe a reflexão acerca da relação gestão de pessoas e responsabilidade social interna, por meio de uma pesquisa qualitativa em uma empresa do ramo da construção civil do Ceará. As práticas de responsabilidade social interna foram apresentadas por integrantes três níveis hierárquicos da empresa e analisadas por um grupo de colaboradores operacionais. Constatou-se que existe na organização uma forte cultura voltada para a responsabilidade social, e que as práticas de gestão de pessoas são norteadas por seus princípios. A responsabilidade social é, dessa forma, um elemento pertinente para a vantagem competitiva da empresa.
Spatiotemporally Optimal Fractionation in Radiotherapy
Authors: Saberian Fatemeh , Ghate Archis , Kim Minsun
Published: May 2017

We present a spatiotemporally integrated formulation of the optimal fractionation problem using the standard log-linear-quadratic survival model. Our objective is to choose a fluence map and a number of fractions to maximize the biological effect of tumor dose averaged over its voxels subject to maximum dose, mean dose, and dose-volume constraints for various normal tissues. Constraints are expressed in biologically effective dose equivalents. We propose an efficient convex programming method to approximately solve the resulting computationally difficult model.

Through extensive computer simulations on 10 head-and-neck and prostate cancer test cases with a broad range of radiobiological parameters, we compare the biological effect on tumors obtained by our integrated approach relative to that from two other models. The first is a traditional intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) fluence map optimization model that does not optimize the number of fractions. The second assumes that a fluence map is available a priori from a traditional IMRT optimization model and then optimizes the number of fractions, thus separating the spatial and temporal components.

The improvements in tumor biological effect over IMRT were 9%–52%, with an average of 22% for head-and-neck, and 53%–108%, with an average of 69% for prostate. The improvements in tumor biological effect over the spatiotemporally separated model were 15%–45%, with an average of 27%, and 17%–23%, with an average of 21%, for head-and-neck and prostate, respectively. This suggests that integrated optimization of the fluence map and the number of fractions could improve treatment efficacy, as measured within the linear-quadratic framework.
Malocclusion in dogs and cats
Authors: Southerden Peter
Published: May 2017

Malocclusion involves abnormal relationships of teeth to each other and other oral structures. Malocclusion can present without significant symptoms or can be severely debilitating. In order to detect a malocclusion it is important for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to have an understanding both of normal occlusion and of the classification and terms used to describe malocclusion which then leads to an appreciation of treatment options. As veterinary nurses frequently have the opportunity to examine young dogs and cats they are ideally placed to identify abnormal occlusion at an early stage.
How to anaesthetise reptiles
Authors: Edis Abigail
Published: May 2017

Reptiles are now the fourth most popular type of pet in the UK (behind cats, dogs and fish) but many practices and veterinary staff are unsure over how to perform routine procedures on the different species including general anaesthesia. This article will cover the basics of how to successfully anaesthetise reptiles from induction through to recovery for routine or short procedures. It gives veterinary staff a quick reference guide to some of the specific considerations that need to be made when presented with a pet reptile in practice in need of a general anaesthetic.
Characterization of Flexural and Impact Strength of Jute/Almond Hybrid Biocomposite
Authors: Singh V. K. , Bansal G. , Negi P. , Bisht A.
Published: May 2017

A hybrid composite consisting of jute fiber-almond shell particle reinforced in epoxy resin modified with 1 weight percentage (wt.%) depolymerised natural rubber (DNR) was fabricated using hand lay-up technique. In the present investigation, we modified the composite by fabricating a composite by filling it with a mixture of almond shell particle and jute fiber, keeping total reinforcement wt. % fixed to 20 wt. %, but varying the ratio of jute fiber and almond shell particle in the manner almond/jute: 100/0, 75/25, 50/50, 25/75, 0/100. Through testings and experimentations, it was concluded that flexural strength is improved by 26.75 %. Through SEM, how the particles and fiber are dispersed in the matrix, how they are bonded to matrix or each other, how at higher wt. % fibers or particles form clusters and effect bonding, with increase in length, how fiber defect increases and composite failure due to fiber pull out or splitting of fiber increases, was seen and justified our results. Thus, it was concluded that 15 wt. % almond shell particle and 5 wt. % treated jute fiber having fiber length 10 mm filled in epoxy modified with 1 wt. % DNR gave the optimum results from various combinations. As such, properties have significantly improved for hybrid composite as compared to pure fiber/ pure particle based composite.
INTERACTION OF SEMI-REFINED CARRAGEENAN (E407A) WITH NANO QUANTA OF SOME FOOD HYDROCOLLOIDS AND THEIR PHYSIOCHEMICAL, FUNCTIONAL AND RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
Authors: Marimuthu Murugesan , Ilansuriyan Packrisamy , N Yap Tony , Shanmugam Munisamy
Published: May 2017

Interaction of semi-refined carrageenan with other food hydrocolloids in different ratio and their rheological, physicochemical and some functional characteristics were evaluated in the present study. Gel strength and viscous synergism index (Iv) were measured and used to analyze their interaction level. Kappa carrageenan had good synergistic effect with cassia, LBG, guar, HPMC and konjac and antagonistic effect with xanthan, alginate, CMC and agar. Only Iota carrageenan in the range of 60:40 with kappa showed neutral effect. A blend of SRC with konjac / LBG can be made for good gel strength whereas konjac / GG for good viscosity. Therefore, SRC can be used in place of refined carrageenan in some food applications.
EFFECT OF LACTIC ACID ON Escherichia coli O157:H7 AND ON COLOR STABILITY OF VACUUM-PACKAGED BEEF STEAKS UNDER HIGH STORAGE TEMPERATURE
Authors: Paula A. A. Salim Ana , C. V. C. S. Canto Anna , R. C. Costa-Lima Bruno , S. Simoes Julia , H. N. Panzenhagen Pedro , M. Franco Robson , J. P. Silva TeÃ³filo , A. Conte-Junior Carlos
Published: May 2017

The effect of lactic acid (LA) addition on Escherichia coli O157:H7 survivability as well as the color stability was determined in vacuum-packaged beef steaks storage at 10°C for 50 days. Longissimus dorsi muscle was portioned into beef steaks and inoculated with Escherichia coli O157:H7. Afterwards, the samples were submitted at three treatments: without lactic acid addition or non-treated (NT); with 0.56 M (5%, v/v) (L5), and with 1.13 M (10%, v/v) (L10) of lactic acid addition. Same division was performed with samples non inoculated. All samples were package at vacuum and stored at 10ºC during 50 days. L10 demonstrated an efficient bacteriostatic effect (P < 0.05) against E. coli O157:H7 and total aerobic mesophilic bacteria. Nonetheless, LA induced a decrease (P < 0.05) in a* values in samples after application and during storage, promoting discoloration of beef steaks. Therefore, L10 was efficient in controlling E. coli O157:H7 even at abusive storage temperatures. However, this decontamination treatment affects negatively the color stability of beef.
ISOLATION AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF THREE BACILLUS STRAINS FOR THEIR TOLERANCE AGAINST VARIOUS HEAVY METALS
Authors: Chauhan Madhulika , Solanki Manu
Published: May 2017

Heavy metal contamination due to natural and anthropogenic sources is a global environmental threat which can produce harmful effects on human health when they are taken up in amounts that cannot be processed by the organism. Technologies involving microbial cells for metal removal and recovery may provide an alternative to conventional methods. In the present study, three cadmium resistant bacteria were isolated from soil collected from industrial area of Faridabad, Haryana, India. Screening of the bacterial isolates for metal resistance against Cd2+, Ni2+, Hg2+, Cu+2 and Pb2+ was done by determining the minimal inhibitory concentration ranging from 10ppm to 250ppm. Moreover these isolates showed a significant ability to remove 70 to 78% of cadmium. These isolates were identified as Bacillus sp.263ZY1 (MA5), Bacterium YC-LK-LKJ45 (MB5) and Bacillus subtilis strain DHXJ07(MC5) on the basis of 16S r-RNA gene sequencing. The ability of these microbes to tolerate high concentration of a range of heavy metals provides a scope of use of these bacterial strains for bioremediation of heavy metal from industrial effluent.
THE IN VITRO EFFECTS OF SILVER NANOPARTICLES ON BACTERIAL BIOFILMS
Authors: Ghotaslou Reza , Bahari Zahra , Aliloo Abdullah , Gholizadeh Pourya , Salahi Eshlaghi Behnaz
Published: May 2017

Biofilm formation is one of the most important bacterial virulence factors that plays a key role in infections. In the present study, effects of silver nanoparticles were evaluated in vitro against bacterial biofilm. Ninety bacterial isolates were selected for study. The Congo Red agar, tube and microtitre assays were used for the detection of biofilm. Antimicrobial effects of silver nanoparticles were determined by the Kirby-Bauer and microdilution methods. The microtitre assay was used to study the biofilm inhibition activity. The most common biofilm producing bacteria was Staphylococcus aureus. The power of biofilm production is different among bacteria, and the effect of silver nanoparticles against Escherichia coli was less than Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The silver nanoparticles are effective against planctonic and biofilm forms. Because of the importance of biofilm in infectious diseases and the development of drug resistance, silver nanoparticles may be an appropriate way for the control and the prevention of biofilm.
α-L-ARABINOFURANOSIDASE FROM AN EFFICIENT HEMICELLULOLYTIC FUNGUS Penicillium janthinellum CAPABLE OF HYDROLYZING WHEAT AND RYE ARABINOXYLAN TO ARABINOSE
Authors: Singh Chadha Bhupinder , Monga Amandeep , Singh Oberoi Harinder
Published: May 2017

This study reports Penicillium janthinellum strain, producing high levels of α-L-arabinofuranosidase (AFase) as well as other components of hemicelluloytic enzyme system (endoxylanase, β-xylosidase and acetyl xylan esterase) on rice straw and wheat bran containing solidified culture medium. Optimization of culture conditions was carried out using Box–Behnken design of experiment to study the influence of process variables (ammonium sulphate, pH and moisture level) on AFase production. Analysis of data showed R2 (0.9967) and adjusted R2 (0.9925) indicating model to be good fit and robust to predict culture conditions for AFase production. Under optimal culture conditions P. janthinellum produced high levels of AFase (212 units/g dw substrate) in addition to xylanase (1800 units/g dw substrate), β-xylosidase (31 units/g dw substrate), acetyl xylan esterase (231 units/g dw substrate) and feruloyl esterase (27 units/g dw substrate). AFase from P. janthinellum culture extract was purified to homogeneity and characterized to be a 64 kDa protein with a pI of 3.8. The peptide mass fingerprinting showed the AFase belonged to family GH54. The enzyme was optimally active at 50o C at pH 5.5 and its activity was positively modulated in presence of Fe3+ions. The enzyme preferentially catalyzed the hydrolysis of pNP- arabinofuranoside (pNPA) with Km and Vmax of 0.4mM and 260 unit mg-1 protein-1, respectively. Hydrolysis with purified AFase (3.0 units/g substrate) released arabinose from rye arabinoxylans (29.5 mg/g substrate) and wheat arabinoxylan (13.4 mg/g substrate), as the sole product indicating P. janthinellum as the important source of α-L-arabinofuranosidase for bioconversion of agro-residue to value added products.
REVISITING MOLECULAR CLONING TO SOLVE GENOME SEQUENCING PROJECT CONFLICTS
Authors: A. Barrera-Saldaña Hugo , Daniel Ramírez-Sánchez AarÃ³n , Editth Palacios-Tovar Tiffany , Aguirre-Treviño Dionicio , Felipe Karr-de-León SaÃºl
Published: May 2017

In our laboratory, DNA sequencing by Sanger method is used as the “gold standard” for clinical diagnostics, microbe identification (bacteria and yeast, mainly) and genome characterization. In this research, we used it to characterize a conflicting locus in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae sequencing project. When sequenced, the resulting electropherogram of the analyzed locus showed a pattern indicating either sample contamination or allele variation. Molecular cloning was chosen as the most straight-forward strategy to solve the dilemma. The initial characterization of recombinant plasmids by restriction enzyme digestion confirmed the presence of two genomic sequences. Their Sanger sequencing revealed two alleles distinguishable by a total of 29 nucleotide differences (25 of which were SNPs). NCBI BLAST revealed that the conflicting locus covered an intergenic region and a coding sequence for a putative permease protein. The present study shows the utility of the classical molecular cloning technique to solve problems of modern genome projects.
BIOSYNTHESIS OF Mg AND Mn INTRACELLULAR NANOPARTICLES VIA EXTREMO-METALLOTOLERANT Pseudomonas stutzeri, B4 Mg/W and Fusarium nygamai, F4 Mn/S
Authors: M.  Sidkey Nagwa , A.  Arafa Rawhiaa , M.  Moustafa Yasser , E. Morsi Rania , M. Elhateir Mai
Published: May 2017

Thirteen microbial isolates were evaluated for green synthesis of Mg and Mn nanoparticles. The isolates were come from soil and wastewater samples from detergent processing industry. Metallotolerance ability of isolates was assessed towards these metals. Bacterial isolate B4 Mg/W was selected as highly extremo-tolerant for Mg+2 and can grow between 800 to 15000ppm (80-1500%)and was identified as Pseudomonas stutzeri, B4 Mg/W. Fungal isolate F4 Mn/ S was selected as extremo-tolerant for Mn+2 and grow in the range 800 to 45000ppm (80-4500%) and was identified as Fusarium nygamai, F4 Mn/ S. Biosynthesis of the Mg and Mn nanoparticles was achieved in both cases extracellular and intracellular. The nanoparticles were characterized using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Pseudomonas stutzeri, B4 Mg/W nanoparticle size was ranges from (229.3-553.2 nm) with different mean number for each size, the maximum mean number 33.7% was that of the particles with size 356.2 r. nm and atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) revealed uptake percentage of the metal was 35.17%. Fusarium nygamai, F4 Mn/ S nanoparticles ranges from (61.21-127.5 to 412.5 nm) with different mean numbers for each size, the maximum mean number 23.1% was that of the particle size 82.09 nm and range from 23.1 to 28.1 % and AAS was 27.07%. Antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus pyogenes RCMB010015, 31.25 and 62.5 mm followed by Candida albicans RCMB05035, 15.63 and 62.5; then Staphylococcus aureus RCMB010027 and Eschericia coli RCMB010056 gave7.81and 62.5mm for both; while for Aspergillus fumigates RCMB02564 gave the least amount of inhibition 1.95 and 15.63mm; moreover Pseudomonas aeruginosa RCMB010043 was very resistant for both Pseudomonas stutzeri, B4 Mg/W and Fusarium nygamai, F4 Mn/S inracellular nanoparticles, respectively.
ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY of SPIRULINA PLATENSIS AGAINST AQUATIC BACTERIAL ISOLATES
Authors: Abd El-Fattah Elshouny Wagih , Mohammed El-Sheekh Mostafa , Zaki Sabae Shawky , Abdelfattah Khalil Maha , Mohamed Badr Hanaa
Published: May 2017

Aquatic organisms are a rich source of novel and bioactive compounds. Cyanobacteria and microalgae being a rich source of bioactive compounds have recently found immense application in human and animal medicine. The present study was attempted to find out the effect of the various extracts of Spirulina platensis, Chlorella vulgaris, Saragassum wightii and Saragassum latifolium using different solvents (methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate and chloroform) as antimicrobial agents against five bacterial pathogens; S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, Salmonella sp, Shigella sp. Results indicate that among the various extracts used, methanol extracts of tested cyanobacterial and algal species appeared to be the most effective ones showing maximum antibacterial activity against the selected bacterial pathogens. Spirulina platensis appeared to be the most effective against all the pathogens studied. The antibacterial substance was purified using column chromatography. The nature of the purified active fractions was detected using different chemical analyses (UV, FT-IR, 1H NMR and GC-MS) which indicated that it is an aliphatic compound and has different active groups (-OH,-C=O,-CH2 and –CH3). The results of this investigation proved that the tested cyanobacterium could be a good source for the production of promising antimicrobial agents.
LA SIMULACIÓN COMO RECURSO ELECTRÓNICO PARA POTENCIAR LAS HABILIDADES COGNITIVAS DEL ESTUDIANTADO
Authors: SANDÍ DELGADO JUAN CARLOS , CRUZ ALVARADO MAINOR ALBERTO
Published: May 2017

Este artículo reúne los resultados del proceso de elaboración de un prototipo de recurso electrónico (simulador) que le permitirá al estudiantado activar, adquirir y desarrollar habilidades cognitivas para potenciar la construcción de nuevos conocimientos significativos en el área de la seguridad vial. El público meta fue la población estudiantil a nivel de educación primaria costarricense, específicamente en el Cantón de Pococí de la Provincia de Limón.Para responder a los objetivos de este estudio se utilizó el enfoque de la investigación cualitativa. La información fue recopilada a partir de una revisión bibliográfica y los datos primarios fueron recolectados a través de la realización de consultas telefónicas a responsables de la gestión administrativa de varios centros educativos seleccionados por conveniencia. La información secundaria se obtuvo a través de la recopilación de fuentes documentales encontradas en Internet, como artículos, tesis y memorias de congresos.Se concluye que la simulación o los ambientes simulados de aprendizaje posibilitan al estudiantado activar variedad de habilidades cognitivas: la memoria a corto y largo plazo, la metacognición, el razonamiento, la resolución de problemas y la representación icónica, entre otros.
CARACTERIZACIÓN MORFOLÓGICA DE 15 GENOTIPOS DE PIMIENTO (CAPSICUM ANNUUM) CULTIVADOS BAJO INVERNADERO EN COSTA RICA
Authors: ELIZONDO CABALCETA ESTEBAN , MONGE PÉREZ JOSÉ ELADIO
Published: May 2017

Se realizó una caracterización morfológica de 15 genotipos de pimiento con frutos de forma cuadrada o rectangular cultivados bajo invernadero, tanto a nivel cualitativo (5 variables) como cuantitativo (8 variables).  Se presentaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre genotipos para las variables cuantitativas.  Los datos muestran una amplia variabilidad en cuanto a la altura de la planta (0,82 – 1,41 m), área foliar (73,91 – 122,26 cm2), diámetro del tallo (12,55 – 16,55 mm), longitud del tallo (11,38 – 31,38 cm), ancho del fruto (6,85 – 9,28 cm), longitud del fruto (7,78 – 13,17 cm), relación largo/ancho del fruto (0,90 – 1,92), y espesor de la pared del fruto (4,84 – 6,31 mm).  Esta información es útil para los productores en el proceso de selección del genotipo a utilizar en su sistema productivo, según el nicho de mercado de interés.
DEPORTES DE AVENTURA REALIZADOS POR COMPETIDORES DE ÉLITE DE RAIDS
Authors: Baena-Extremera Antonio , Ayala-Jiménez Jose David , Baños Raul
Published: May 2017

Los equipamientos y materiales en las actividades físicas en el medio natural y en los deportes de aventura corresponden a instalaciones e instrumentos concretos para cada modalidad deportiva. La práctica de escalada, kayak, esquí o bicicleta todo terreno (BTT) será más adecuada y variará en función de las condiciones medioambientales que presente el entorno y de las características de este. Los objetivos del presente estudio fueron analizar los deportes incluidos en los raids y conocer el material, instalaciones y época de año de práctica. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 272 competidores de élite de la Liga Española de Raids de Aventura. El instrumento de medida utilizado fue un cuestionario autoadministrado validado previamente. Los resultados obtenidos fueron que un 80.1% de los participantes practicaba deportes de aventura en todas las estaciones del año por igual y un 69.8% utiliza material específico en la práctica deportiva. Este estudio concluye que los competidores en los raids de aventura practican diversos deportes de aventura en todas las épocas del año por igual y que el material específico es el más común entre los competidores en el entorno natural.
Ultrasound Emission from Porous Silicon: Efficient Thermoacoustic Function as a Depleted Nanocrystalline System
Authors: Koshida N. , Nakajima T. , Yoshiyama M. , Ueno K. , Nakagawa T. , Shinoda H.
Published: May 2017

It is demonstrated that luminescent porous silicon (PS) exhibits an efficient thermoacoustic effect owing to its extremely low thermal conductivity. The experimental device is composed of a patterned thin Al film electrode (30 nm thick), a microporous PS layer (10–50 μm thick), and a single-crystalline Si (c-Si) wafer. The PS layer was formed by a conventional anodization technique. When an electrical input is provided to the Al electrode as a sinusoidal current followed by Joule's heating, a significant acoustic pressure is produced in front of the device as a result of an efficient heat exchange between PS and air. The output amplitude is in inverse proportion to the square root of the input frequency (0.1-100 kHz) as predicted by a theoretical analysis. The observed effect is a novel useful function of PS as a completely depleted nanocrystalline system.