bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Management Strategies to Curb the Development of NCDs in Rural Communities
Authors: Maria Mothiba Tebogo
Published: March 2021

Prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in both Low- and Middle-Income countries is viewed as problematic and could lead to side effects when poorly managed. Therefore, serious intervention whereby People Living With the NCDs (PLWNCDs) could take a lead in controlling the side effects and managing the diseases themselves so that they maintain the QoL. To review and discuss literature related to self-management strategies to curb the development of NCDs in rural communities. Comprehensive Literature Review was used to collect data by reviewing literature related to self-management strategies to curb the development of NCDs in rural communities. The results of literature review showed that Self-management of NCDs is viewed as the only way to improve health outcomes and maintain QoL, by employing relevant strategies which will assist in achieving healthier life despite the situations at rural communities. Western World health systems have NCDs management centres at the community level to empower patients with knowledge for improving their QoL, whilst such centres do not exist in the Low-and Middle- Income countries poor communities. The PLWNCDs and residing at rural communities in Low- and Middle- Income countries can benefit from NCDs self-management strategies, despite the poor conditions.
The Secretome of Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Mathieu-Denoncourt Annabelle , Giacomucci Sean , Duperthuy Marylise
Published: March 2021

Vibrio cholerae is a facultative human pathogen responsible for the cholera disease which infects millions of people worldwide each year. V. cholerae is a natural inhabitant of aquatic environments and the infection usually occurs after ingestion of contaminated water or food. The virulence factors of V. cholerae have been extensively studied in the last decades and include the cholera toxin and the coregulated pilus. Most of the virulence factors of V. cholerae belong to the secretome, which corresponds to all the molecules secreted in the extracellular environment such as proteins, exopolysaccharides, extracellular DNA or membrane vesicles. In this chapter, we review the current knowledge of the secretome of V. cholerae and its role in virulence, colonization and resistance. In the first section, we focus on the proteins secreted through conventional secretion systems. The second and third sections emphasize on the membrane vesicles and on the secretome associated with biofilms.
From Pregnancy Loss to COVID 19 Cytokine Storm: A Matter of Inflammation and Coagulation
Authors: Vesce Fortunato
Published: March 2021

Large scientific evidence achieved during the second half of the past century points to a leading role of inflammation in the pathogenic mechanism of the main pregnancy complications, such as abortion, pregnancy loss, premature delivery, infection, fetal encephalopathy, enterocolitis, pulmonary hyaline membrane diseases and death. Thinking about pregnancy inflammation, one must refer today to the umbalance of the normal mediators of organic functions: cytokins, peptides, nucleosides, prostanoids. Indeed, according to the order and quantity of their release, they are involved either in physiology or in pathology of pregnancy. At this regard, it has been shown that Th1-type immunity is incompatible with successful pregnancy. Regulation of the mediators of maternal functions is largely under fetal genetic control. Assessment of the fetal role derives from studies showing an umbalance of cytokines and plasminogen activator system, an increase of endothelin, a downregulation of adenosine receptors, in the fetal compartment, in aneuploid pregnancies. The resulting functional deviations deal with inflammation, imfection, coagulation, impaired utero-placental perfusion, possibly leading to fetal demise and ominus maternal complications. SARS-COV-2 infection, on the other hand, is characterized by a similar umbalance of the inflammatory mediators, leading to hyperactivation of a type-1 lymphobyte T-helper response, which ends in a possibly fatal cytokine storm syndrome. While SARS-COV-2 infection recognizes a viral etiology, the cause of pregnancy inflammation must be recognized in the inability of the fetus to control the maternal immune response. Therefore, the preventive measures are quite different, although both benefit of a similar anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and anti-coagulant therapy.
Exploring Critical Factors for Innovative Capacities: A Life-History Research
Authors: Benna Skytt-Larsen Christine , Kalsø Hansen Høgni
Published: March 2021

A large volume of literature within human resource management studies and related disciplines suggests that innovation and learning are key factors for economic growth in the knowledge economy. Yet, surprisingly little is known about the key actors in this process – the inventive actors – and the factors that influence their innovative capacities. Information about individual inventors is difficult to obtain and therefore previous research has refrained from performing systematic empirical studies on this topic. Existing studies are often based on quantitative analyses of patent data, and empirics often focus on specific industries or technologies. Such studies provide great knowledge of the importance of specific patent takers for innovation and the knowledge economy; however, patent data do not provide information on influential factors on the innovative capacity of inventors and therefore do not provide any explanation concerning what it is that creates successful inventors. In other words, what we have is knowledge of patent takers in specific industries or technologies, but we lack an understanding of the socio-cultural factors and environments that shape individuals’ innovative capacities. Analysing the life-histories of three inventors allocated into three distinct ideal types, this chapter aims at understanding the links between socio-cultural factors and innovation. Life-history research through in-depth interviews provides a rich quantity of narratives and recorded experiences serving as a springboard for more comprehensive understandings of the actors, networks and events that influence innovative capacities.
Combined Serum Golgi Membrane Glycoprotein 73 Improves the Accuracy of Transient Elastography for Significant Fibrosis Detection in Patients with Chronic HBV Infections
Authors: Zhou Qiaoxia , Yan Libo , Du Lingyao , Tang Xiaoqiong , Tang Hong
Published: March 2021

Background: Golgi membrane glycoprotein 73 (GP73) serum level is a potential biomarker for diagnosing significant fibrosis and cirrhosis in chronic liver diseases. Objectives: The current study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of GP73 serum levels as a biomarker in the diagnosis of significant liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV). A new promising algorithm was developed by combining LSM and GP73 to predict significant liver fibrosis. Methods: Information on the following parameters were obtained from 165 patients with HBV: liver stiffness measurement (LSM), serum GP73 level, and some other fibrosis criteria approved for clinical practice. The area under the curve (AUC) and sensitivity and specificity of GP73 were compared with LSM, aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), and 4-factor based fibrosis index (FIB-4) for diagnosing significant fibrosis. Results: Compared to the non-significant liver fibrosis patients, the HBV infected patients with significant fibrosis showed a higher level of serum GP73 [64.05 (24.41 - 144.39) versus 91.30 (31.81 - 200.05) ng/mL, P < 0.001]. Concerning significant fibrosis diagnosis, GP73 exhibited advantages regarding the AUC (0.702), sensitivity (69.3%), and specificity (66.0%). Besides, GP73 did not show any advantage over LSM and APRI, but it had a better performance than FIB-4 in significant fibrosis detection. For the newly developed algorithm combining GP73 with LSM, the AUC, sensitivity, and specificity were 0.848, 77.4%, and 83.5%, respectively; hence, it's superior to LSM (0.832, 72.6%, and 83.5%, respectively; P = 0.016) for diagnosing significant fibrosis. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that GP73 can be considered as a new effective biomarker for diagnosing liver fibrosis. The accuracy of significant fibrosis detection in patients with HBV infection can be improved by the new algorithm that contains GP73 and LSM.
Giving Up the Enkratic Principle
Authors: Field Claire ,   Romanian Academy - Iasi Branch
Published: March 2021

The Enkratic Principle enjoys something of a protected status as a requirement of rationality. I argue that this status is undeserved, at least in the epistemic domain. Compliance with the principle should not be thought of as a requirement of epistemic rationality, but rather as defeasible indication of epistemic blamelessness. To show this, I present the Puzzle of Inconsistent Requirements, and argue that the best way to solve it is to distinguish two kinds of epistemic evaluation – requirement evaluations and appraisal evaluations. This allows us to solve the puzzle while accommodating traditional motivations for thinking of the Enkratic Principle as a requirement of rationality.
Essential oils and plant extracts in the control of phytopathogenic bacteria and fungi
Authors: Laćarac Nikola
Published: March 2021

Some plants contain various substances that have pesticidal properties. Since these substances are extracted from plants they are called botanical pesticides. Botanical pesticides can be used as fungicides, bactericides, viricides, herbicides, insecticides, nematicides and rodenticides. Essential oils and plant extracts are most commonly used as botanical pesticides. In the past few years, we have witnessed a tendency to reduce the use of conventional pesticides and for that reason more and more attention is paid to the testing and application of essential oils and plant extracts for this purpose. These compounds have a number of advantages over conventional pesticides, especially when it comes to preventing the occurrence of diseases caused by phytopathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi as the most common and most important causes of plant diseases. Plant extracts and essential oils can be used at a time when the application of conventional pesticides is impossible due to the observance of the waiting period, and they are also a significant weapon in integrated and organic production concept.
The importance of using the social network Instagram in the development of women's entrepreneurship
Authors: Gardašević Jovana , Lalović Pavle , Fimić Nikola
Published: March 2021

The subject of the paper is to examine the importance of using the social network Instagram in women's entrepreneurship in order to encourage the development or improvement of existing businesses of women and women engaged in performing SMEs through the use of this modern interactive and marketing tool. A review of the latest literature seeks to point out the relevant views of authors who have conducted research on the use of social networks with an emphasis on the social network Instagram in the field of women's entrepreneurship to examine their correlation in order to strengthen women's entrepreneurship. The social network Instagram provides women entrepreneurs with greater visibility, the possibility of information as well as cooperation and interaction with other business partners in order to develop or improve their own business. The paper uses methods of analysis and synthesis, positivism and content analysis. The aim of this paper is to inform women entrepreneurs about the importance of use the social network Instagram in the development of their business, undertaking marketing and promotional activities and opportunities for cooperation, participation and interaction with various partners in their everyday business environment.
Postharvest processing, packaging and storage of African oil bean seed
Authors: Onyekachi Igbozulike , Ifeanyichukwu Obiora , Simonyan Kayode
Published: March 2021

The underutilization of African oil bean seed necessitated the study of its post-harvest operations. This work reviews the status of research on postharvest processes of African Oil Bean (AOB) seed. Information was sought through a search query with African oil bean post-harvest processing, packaging and storage as keywords on Google Scholar, internet, publishers' website, textbooks and oral interview with local processors. The results showed that researchers have focused on the fermentation, proximate, phytochemical, mineral and vitamins composition of AOB seeds. This study also revealed the dearth of research on characterization, improved variety, packaging, storage, value addition and oil extraction from AOB seeds. Research on postharvest handling, storage, packaging and processing of AOB seed is imperative for optimal utilization of the seed, and to prevent the prevalent post-harvest losses.
Medical students' levels of empathy and stigma toward the mentally ill
Authors: Injac-Stevović Lidija , Radojičić Tamara , Repišti Selman
Published: March 2021

The main aim of this paper was to investigate levels of empathy in medical students as well as their attitudes toward people with mental disorders. We recruited 144 students from the School of Medicine in Podgorica (Montenegro), out of which 37.7% were males and 62.3% were females. The mean age of the sample was 21.85 (SD = 2.65). We designed Scale of attitudes toward mentally ill people (SAMIP), and principal component analysis revealed that this instrument could be divided into two subscales - Positive attitudes toward the mentally ill (PAMI, a= .903) and Stigmatization of the mentally ill (SMI, a= .875). These subscales had high levels of reliability (i.e. internal consistency). The second measure was Empathy Questionnaire which is a unidimensional tool with a very high level of internal consistency (a= .924). The results revealed a high positive correlation between empathy levels and positive attitudes towards people with mental illness, a low correlation of empathy with the year of study, a low negative correlation between stigmatizing the mentally ill and participants' age, as well as low positive correlations of proneness to stigma with students' GPA and expectations of their profession. Recommendations for further research in this field were listed as well.
The Magura cave in north-western Bulgaria: Exploring visitation and speleotourism potential
Authors: Antić Aleksandar
Published: March 2021

Speleotourism implies visiting caves and respecting geomorphological values. A visit to the caves must include certain rules of conduct and implementation of geoethical values to achieve sustainable speleotourism development. This paper investigates the tourist traffic of an authentic cave in northwestern Bulgaria, the Magura Cave, which is a speleological object with exceptional potential for the development of speleotourism. The explored cave includes unique examples of cave paintings and imposing historical values. The research methodology mainly included descriptive analysis of data obtained by the administrative staff of the Municipality of Belogradchik. The data of tourist visits are presented in tables and graphs. The research results indicate the current state and potential prospects for the development of speleotourism in the Magura Cave. Moreover, the paper presents measures for more effective development of speleotourism, which are of special importance for organizational and cave management structures.
Blended learning
Authors: Konnerup Ulla , Dalsgaard Christian
Published: March 2021

bliver anvendt på flere og flere uddannelsesinstitutioner. Begreberne har relationer til beslægtede betegnelser som hybrid læring, fleksibel uddannelse, multi-mode learning samt learning ecology. Det er på den ene side nogle meget brede begreber, der kan bruges til mange forskellige typer af undervisningsforløb, og som dermed kan kritiseres for at være upræcise og for generelle til at være anvendelige. På den anden side peger begreberne på en sammensætning og en kompleksitet i tilrettelæggelsen af undervisning, hvor man benytter sig af forskellige værktøjer, metoder og rum. Dermed udgør betegnelsen blended learning ikke en særlig tilgang eller pædagogik, men skal nærmere ses som en åbning mod at tilrettelægge undervisning på nye måder, der er supporteret og medieret af flere teknologier, og hvor forskellige on/offline formater og samarbejdsformer er gentænkt i hele forløb; at man fx ikke blot tilføjer teknologier som et ekstra lag oven i den eksisterende undervisning, men at man tænker det sammen i en helhed. På den måde kan blended learning ses som en anledning til at gentænke undervisning og uddannelser med inddragelse af forskellige metoder, teknologier og undervisningsformer.I de seneste 20 år er forskellige variationer af og formater for blended learning blevet en naturlig del af uddannelsesinstitutionernes tilbud. Formen anses for at kunne bidrage til en pædagogisk mangfoldighed og øge mulighederne for fleksibel tilrettelæggelse af undervisning.Selve begrebet “blended learning” betegner rammesætningen af en række af fysiske og online undervisningsmiljøer end en egentlig læringsforståelse; men hvilken forståelse af læring kendetegner og muliggør de forskellige formater og designs af blended learning? De mangeartede og mangefacetterede læringskontekster udfordrer didaktiske designere og det bliver nødvendigt at forholde sig til, hvordan læring finder sted i og på tværs af forskellige typer af læringsmiljøer. En central udfordring ligger i at tilrettelægge et “godt blend”, der udgør en helhed, hvor der er en pædagogisk overensstemmelse mellem eksempelvis online og fysiske formater, og at disse ikke kommer til at køre som parallelle eller adskilte forløb.De er disse spørgsmål og udfordringer, der er udgangspunktet for og bliver behandlet i artiklerne i dette temanummer til Læring og Medier.
Verdensmester i offentlig digitalisering
Authors: Zeberg Rikke Hougaard
Published: March 2021

Danmark er i 2018 og 2020 kåret af FN som verdens bedste nation til offentlig digitalisering. Hvordan er Danmark kommet i førertrøjen, når det handler om offentlig digitalisering? Det er et spørgsmål, som jeg er blevet stillet rigtigt mange gange, når myndigheder fra hele verden har besøgt Digitaliseringsstyrelsen. I det følgende giver jeg mit bud på svar på det spørgsmål. En succeshistorie har mange forældre, og rigtigt mange har æren for, at Danmark er med helt i front. Denne fortælling er baseret på min hukommelse, så bær over med udeladelser og forglemmelser – dem er der garanteret et par stykker af!
Digitalisering i det danske sundhedsvæsen
Authors: Gjødsbø Iben Mundbjerg , Langstrup Henriette , Høyer Klaus , Kayser Lars , Vrangbæk Karsten
Published: March 2021

Danmark fremhæves ofte som et af de mest digitaliserede lande i verden og som et foregangsland, når det kommer til it-systemer og digitale kommunikationsløsninger, der forbinder sundhedsvæsenets forskellige sektorer samt borger og stat (Kierkegaard, 2013; United Nations, 2020). Mange aktører har gennem årene set forskellige muligheder i digitalisering og brugt digitalt baserede løsninger til at adressere meget forskellige problemer, herunder koordination, tilgængelighed af information for behandlere, forebyggelse, kvalitetssikring, effektivisering, patientinddragelse, nye afregningsformer samt dokumentation af kliniske mål (Sundheds- og Ældreministeriet et al., 2018; Sundhedsministeriet, 2012). Senest har vi med lynimplementering af videokonsultationer set digitalisering som et middel til at opretholde eksisterende services virtuelt under COVID-19-pandemien. Digitalisering kan således være mange ting og tjene mange formål.

I denne artikel vil vi beskrive de væsentligste digitaliseringsinitiativer, der er blevet ført ud i livet i det danske sundhedsvæsen og af hvilke aktører. Beskrivelsen er på ingen måde udtømmende, men tegner et billede af den omfattende indflydelse, digitaliseringen har fået på vores sundhedssektor. På den baggrund diskuterer vi derefter, hvordan selve digitaliseringen afføder nye udfordringer for de involverede aktører.
Det digitale kommunikationssystem
Authors: Flensburg Sofie
Published: March 2021

I løbet af de seneste 30 år har digitaliseringen medført en markant restrukturering af de teknologiske, økonomiske og politiske vilkår for kommunikation: internettet er blevet en fælles infrastruktur, der kan erstatte alle tidligere kommunikationsnetværk, globale virksomheder har udfordret nationale institutioners forretningsmodeller og markedspositioner, og eksisterende kommunikationspolitisk lovgivning og regulering har vist sig tiltagende utilstrækkelig. Denne artikel tegner et portræt af internettets evolutionære udvikling i Danmark fra 1992 til 2020 og diskuterer de væsentligste politiskøkonomiske implikationer ved overgangen til digital kommunikation.
Consumer attitudes and behavior towards organic products: Evidence from the Lithuanian market
Authors:   Ph.D., Professor, Vytautas Magnus University, Faculty of Economics and Management, K. Donelaičio str. 58, LT-44248, Kaunas, Lithuania, e-mail: lina.pileliene@vdu.lt, Pilelienė Lina , Tamulienė Vilma ,   Ph.D., Associate Professor, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University; Department of Management; Business Management Faculty. Sauletekio av. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania, e-mail: vilma.tamuliene@vgtu.lt
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The paper analyzes consumer attitudes and related behavior towards organic products and determines the factors affecting consumer attitudes towards organic products andLithuanian consumers' choices. Methodology: Previous scientific works are analyzed and generalized in order to provide scientific substantiation for the research. A questionnaire survey is provided in order to approve the theoretically established factors in the Lithuanian market of organic products. The questionnaire is comprised of 23 statements representing eight latent variables: six possible reasons for the choice of an organic product (health issues; environmental concerns; food safety and quality; economic reasons; social reasons; psychological reasons) and two possible outcomes (intentions to choose organic products; actual organic product purchases). The survey results are based on the answers of 269 respondents representing the population of the four biggest cities in Lithuania. Findings: The results indicate the structural differences between theory and its application for the Lithuanian market; therefore, the factors are reestablished. The research results show the high level of Lithuanian consumers’ environmental consciousness; also, a willingness to share information relating to environmental issues with friends; and active engagement in sharing information about environmentally related issues. However, consumer awareness of the relationship between organic products, and health and quality issues is lower, indicating the necessity to be managed. Also, consumers do not express high agreement that organic products have to be more expensive; they do not intend to pay a higher price for them. Research results show that Lithuanian consumers do not choose organic products often and they also do not express conformable behavior (resulting from organic product purchases). Implications for theory and practice: The research results enable the ability to compose a clear framework of Lithuanian consumer attitudes and behavior towards organic products. The established factors affecting consumer attitudes and behavior can be further explored and modeled according to different market situations. Originality and value: Based on the results, companies can elaborate on effective marketing strategies fostering consumer attitudes and behavior in a particular way.
Determination of the Effect of Three Libyan Herbal Plants on the Quality and Taste of Milk in Aljfarah District, Libya
Authors: Sweesi Miloud , Ahmed Mohamed O. , Benothman Mohamed , Ashraf Ward M.
Published: March 2021

The current study investigated the effect of selected local herbal plants on the quality and physical organoleptic taste of cow milk. In total, three medicinal plants namely Solanum schimperianum hochst (Zitoun), Olea europaea L (Hadeq) and Acacia etbaica schweinf (Kasha) were chosen. Five different farms in Aljfarah district were selected in the study. Approximately, 5gm of leaves from each plant were collected, cleaned and dried then crushed into powder. A 1800 ml milk sample was collected from the whole-milk container of each farm. 200 ml was used for each treated and control group. A standard fumigation process using charcoal fire was performed on each treated group using the prepared plant powder. The quality of treated milk against each tested plant was estimated by physical testings’ using gustatory and olfactory rank using 45 participants. In total, 40.9% of participants ranked Solanum schimperianum hochst as their first best choice followed by 34.8% for Olea europaea L and 23% chose Acacia etbaica schweinf. Fifty percent of participants have reported better quality of taste and odour of treated milk comparing to control groups. Also, 82% of participants expressed their confidence regarding the effectiveness of herbal plants in improving the quality of milk. In conclusion, herbal plants improved the quality of milk and limited the spoilage process, showing the potential application of herbal plants in milk industry.
Severe Perinatal Asphyxia and Risk of Neonatal Jaundice at a Tertiary Hospital in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Imoudu I. A. , Yusuf M. O. , Aro A. T. , Akpabio P. E. , Waziri Z. M.
Published: March 2021

Background: The risk factors of neonatal jaundice are largely known, yet there is little agreement on the association between it and perinatal asphyxia.

Aim: To investigate the association between severe perinatal asphyxia (SPA) and the risk of clinical jaundice (NNJ) among neonates managed at the Federal Medical Centre, Azare, Nigeria.

Methodology: Case control design was employed. Medical records of 315 babies managed at the special care baby unit from 1st January, 2011 to 31st December, 2018 were analysed. The exposure of interest was SPA and the outcome was jaundice. Logistic regression was applied to demonstrate the relationship between neonatal jaundice and SPA. Relative risk was provided as odds ratio and 95% confidence interval.

Results: Sixty-three cases and 252 controls were enrolled in the study. The mean age of the cases (4.39) and that of the controls (4.95 ) did not differ significantly (t= -0.52, P= 0.30). One hundred and fifty-six (61.9%) of the controls were males while 34 (54.0%) of the cases were females. For 59 (93.7%) of the cases treatment for jaundice was done with phototherapy and 1.6% required exchange blood transfusion. SPA significantly reduced the risk of developing NNJ (adjusted OR = 0.27, P-value ˂ 0.01).                                                                          

Conclusion: We demonstrated a significantly reduced risk of developing neonatal jaundice with prior exposure to severe perinatal asphyxia. Prospective multicenter and community based studies correlated with serum bilirubin levels are recommended.
On Generalized Third-Order Jacobsthal Numbers
Authors: Polatlı Evren Eyican , Soykan Yüksel
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we investigate the generalized third order Jacobsthal sequences and we deal with, in detail, four special cases, namely, third order Jacobsthal, third order Jacobsthal-Lucas, modified third order Jacobsthal, third order Jacobsthal Perrin sequences. We present Binet’s formulas, generating functions, Simson formulas, and the summation formulas for these sequences. Moreover, we give some identities and matrices related with these sequences.
Helicobacter pylori Infection and Association with Anaemia in Cameroon Patients, Using GastroPanel® Serological Biomarkers (Pepsinogen I; Pepsinogen II; Gastrin-17; Helicobacter pylori IgG)
Authors: Ebule Alonge Ivo , Ndze Valentine Ngum , Thierry Ngouana Kammalac , Ester Nken , Dominique Noah Noah , Maki Minna , Syrjanen Kari
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) together with chronic atrophic gastritis have also been associated to extragastric manifestations including neurological, dermatological, ocular, cardiovascular, metabolic, allergic diseases and hematologic disorders. Several studies have associatedH. pylori with anaemia, iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. Little or no data on the association of H. pylori infection andanaemia exist in Cameroon. We therefore evaluated the prevalence H. pylori infection among patients with anaemia.

Methodology: Blood samples were aseptically collected for the measurements Helicobacter pylori IgG antibodies, pepsinogene I et II levels, gastrine-17 in a total of 150 patients during the period February to July 2020. The blood samples required for the study were collected prospectively. Ethical clairance was obtained from the Centre Regional Ethics Committee for Human Sciences. An authorization of research was obtained from the authorities of General Hospital of Yaounde. All participants signed an informed consent form.

Results: The GastroPanel® results showed that the prevalence of H. pyloriinfection was 90(60.00%).We observeda strong association of H. pylori with anaemia (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.08–4.46; p=0,02).

Conclusion: The prevalence of H. pylori infection is high in patients with anaemia and thus requires continuous monitoring of these patients.
Study of Serum Uric Acid in Different Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Akhter Shahida , Rizwan A. S. M.
Published: March 2021

Background: Hyperuricaemia is a metabolic marker of decreased renal function in chronic kidney disease (CKD). It increases cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and mortality risk in patients with CKD.

Objectives: To estimate serum uric acid level in different stages of CKD.

Methods: The present study was a cross sectional analytical study and was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from July 2012 to June 2013 on 300 participants. They were divided into group A (150 control healthy participants) and group B (150 diagnosed cases of CKD). Serum creatinine and serum uric acid levels were measured by auto analyzer in Department of Pathology, Dhaka Medical College. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated from serum creatinine level by Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation. For statistical analysis unpaired Student “t” test, one way ANOVA test, Bonferroni test, Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) test and Linear regression were performed using SPSS for windows version 20.

Result: In this study, serum uric acid level was significantly (p<0.05) higher and eGFR were significantly lower in study groups than that of control group. There was gradual rise of serum uric acid level in CKD subjects from stage I to V. A significant inverse correlation was observed between serum uric acid level and eGFR. Serum uric acid level increased 0.048 mg/dl for each ml/min/1.73m2 decrease of eGFR.

Conclusion: This study concludes that serum uric acid level increases gradually in accordance with the higher stages of CKD. There is a negative correlation of serum uric acid with eGFR in all stages of CKD which was statistically significant (p<0.05). Screening of serum uric acid level in different stages of CKD may be beneficial for assessing renal damage as well as prediction of co-morbidities associated with it.
Pediatric Functional Constipation and Whey Protein: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Motavasselian Fateme , Emtiazy Majid , Shakiba Mehrdad , Aflatoonian Majid
Published: March 2021

Background: Functional constipation is a chronic gastrointestinal disease in children. Pharmacological treatment of constipation is mostly based on the prescription of laxatives. In addition to this treatment, complementary therapies were also proposed to treat constipation. In this study, the effect of whey protein in the treatment of constipation was investigated.

Method and Materials: A total of 56 children with functional constipation within the age range of 1 to 16 years were included in the study. Patients were randomly divided into the intervention (n=28) and control (n=28) groups. The intervention group received 15 g whey protein and the control group received 15 g placebo. Both groups received 0.4 - 0.8 gr/kg PEG powder. The amount of PEG was adjusted every four days based on having soft stools. Demographic information were collected and recorded. Furthermore, fecal consistency, stool frequency, symptoms of stool retention, fecal incontinence, and abdominal pain were recorded prior to the intervention and at the second and fourth weeks of the intervention.

Results: All patients had soft daily stools at the end of the intervention. At the end of the fourth week, the mean required amounts of PEG powder were respectively 0.62 and 0.28 g/kg in the control and intervention groups, which showed a significant difference (p value ≤0.001).

Conclusion: Based on these findings, whey protein is safe and can improve constipation. However, more studies with larger sample size and longer follow-up period are needed to confirm the results of this study.
Synthesis, Characterization and Evaluation of Anti-tubercular Activity of Ofloxacin Chalcone Conjugates
Authors: Chintakunta Ramakrishna , Gopireddy Venkata Subbareddy
Published: March 2021

Synthesis and characterization of Ofloxacin Chalcone derivatives were carried out and evaluated for their antitubercular activity. Synthesized Ofloxacin Chalcone derivatives (Compound A to F). These molecules are characterized by analytical methods (TLC), melting point, and Spectroscopic methods (FT-IR, Mass, NMR). The evaluated antitubercular activity of molecules of synthesized compounds and Ciprofloxacin Pyrazinamide, and Streptomycin as standard drugs. concentrations of synthesized derivatives were prepared (0.8, 1.6, 3.12, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100 µg/ml) by using sterile deionized water as a solvent. Antitubercular Assay was Performed by Mycobacterium tuberculosis using the MABA method. Analyzed MIC values. Compound E showed the best results among 6 Compounds at a very low concentration at 3.12 µg/ml.
Carbohydrate structures of hen ovomucoid
Authors: Egge Heinz , Peter-Katalinić Jasna , Paz-Parente José , Strecker Gerard , Montreuil Jean , Fournet Bernard
Published: July 2002

The apparently homogenous N‐glycosidically‐linked glycans 1, 7, 11 and 14 released by hydrazinolysis from hen ovomucoid were analysed by fast atom bombardment and electron‐impact mass spectrometry after reduction and permethylation. The spectra support the primary structures established independently [FEBS Letters (1983) 152, 145–152] using methylation analysis, partial acid hydrolysis and 500 MHz 1H NMR spectroscopy. In addition to the major constituents present in fractions 1, 7, 11 and 14, four minor components not detected by other methods could be characterized with the aid of the mass spectrometry data as: Man2GlcNAcGlcNAc‐ol, GlcNAc4Man3GlcNAc‐ol, GlcNAc6Man3GlcNAc‐ol and GalGlcNAc6Man3GlcNAc‐ol. Our results show that the physical techniques used provide valuable data on the structure of complex glycans. In addition they can be employed to ascertain the homogeneity of the compounds examined as well as to detect trace amounts of homologs that might not be noticed by other methods.
Kinetics of 5‐enolpyruvylshikimate‐3‐phosphate synthase inhibition by glyphosate
Authors: Boocock Martin R. , Coggins John R.
Published: July 2002

The herbicide glyphosate (N‐phosphonomethy glycine) is a potent reversible inhibitor of the 5‐enolpyruvylshikimate‐3‐phosphate (EPSP) synthase activity of the purified arom multienzyme complex from Neurospora crassa. Inhibition of the EPSP synthase reaction by glyphosate is competitive with respect to phosphoenolpyruvate, with K
i 1.1 μM, and uncompetitive with respect to shikimate‐3‐phosphate. The kinetic patterns are consistent with a compulsory order sequential mechanism in which either PEP or glyphosate can bind to an enzyme: shikimate‐3‐phosphate complex.
Evidence for direct interactions between methimazole and free radicals
Authors: Taylor J.J. , Willson R.L. , Kendall-Taylor P.
Published: July 2002

Two experimental approaches have been used to investigate possible interactions of methimazole with hydroxyl (OH) and iodine (I2
−) free radicals. Methimazole protects sensitive enzymes against inactivation caused by OH and I2
− Pulse radiolysis reveals the presence of transient absorbing species formed as a result of the direct interaction between methimazole and these free radicals. Measurements of the absolute rate constants indicate that these reactions proceed very rapidly at very low drug concentrations. These experiments provide direct evidence that methimazole is a potent scavenger of OH and I2
− and they provide a possible explanation for the previously observed effects of this drug.
Crystal structure study of Opsanus tau parvalbumin by multiwavelength anomalous diffraction
Authors: Kahn R. , Fourme R. , Bosshard R. , Chiadmi M. , Risler J.L. , Dideberg O. , Wery J.P.
Published: July 2002

The crystal structure of a small calcium‐binding protein, the parvalbumin IIIf from Opsanus tau in which Tb was substituted for Ca, has been analysed by multiwavelength anomalous diffraction. Data at a resolution of 2.3 Å were collected at three wavelengths near the L3 absorption edge of Tb (1.645–1.650 Å), using the synchrotron radiation emitted by a storage ring and a multiwire proportional counter. The phases of the reflections were determined from this single derivative, without native data. Prior to any refinement, the resulting electron density map shows a good agreement with the model of the homologous carp parvalbumin in regions of identical amino‐acid sequence.
Cytoskeletons of ADP‐ and thrombin‐stimulated blood platelets
Authors: Pho D.B. , Desbruyères E. , Der Terrossian E. , Olomucki A.
Published: July 2002

Comparative analyses of the cytoskeletons of resting and stimulated platelets point out the involvement of a 79 kDa polypeptide in the activation step and its increased incorporation during aggregation. It appears as a doublet and cross‐reacts with an antibody to chicken gizzard caldesmon, whereas no 150 kDa immunoreactive form was detected. α‐Actinin and gelsolin were detected only in the aggregation step.
Isolation and sequence analysis of a cDNA clone encoding the entire catalytic subunit of a type‐2A protein phosphatase
Authors: da Cruz e Silva Odete B. , Alemany Susana , Campbell David G. , Cohen Patricia T.W.
Published: July 2002

A 2.5 kb clone containing the full‐length coding sequence of a type‐2A protein phosphatase catalytic subunit has been isolated from a rabbit skeletal muscle cDNA library constructed in λgt10. The sequence of the protein deduced from the cDNA contains 309 residues (35.58 kDa). A major mRNA species at 2.0 kb and a minor component at 2.8 kb were visualized by Northern blotting in both skeletal muscle and liver. The type‐2A enzyme showed weak homology with mammalian alkaline phosphatases between residues 55 and 95. The protein sequence of the type‐2A phosphatase from rabbit skeletal muscle differs from that reported for the bovine adrenal enzyme in three regions.
The amino acid substitutions of human α1‐antitrypsin M3, X and Z
Authors: Jeppsson Jan-Olof , Laurell Carl-Bertil
Published: July 2002

α1‐Antitrypsin has been isolated from individuals with inherited genetic variants M3, X and Z. A fragmentation and peptide mapping system is described which together with amino acid and sequence analyses revealed the substitutions in M3 at 376 of Glu to Asp, in X at 204 of Glu to Lys and in the physiologically innocent Z a mutation at 213 of Val to Ala. The latter represents a second amino acid substitution in the Z protein.
Multisite phosphorylation of the glycogen‐binding subunit of protein phosphatase‐1G by cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase and glycogen synthase kinase‐3
Authors: Dent Paul , Campbell David G. , Hubbard Michael J. , Cohen Philip
Published: July 2002

The glycogen‐binding (G) subunit of protein phosphatase‐1G is phosphorylated stoichiometrically by glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK3), and with a greater catalytic efficiency than glycogen synthase, but only after prior phosphorylation by cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase (A‐kinase) at site 1. The residues phosphorylated are the first two serines in the sequence AIFKPGFSPQPSRRGS‐, while the C‐terminal serine (site 1) is one of the two residues phosphorylated by A‐kinase. These findings demonstrate that (i) the G subunit undergoes multisite phosphorylation in vitro; (ii) phosphorylation by GSK3 requires the presence of a C‐terminal phosphoserine residue; (iii) GSK3 can synergise with protein kinases other than casein kinase‐2.
The interaction of β‐N‐methylamino‐L‐alanine with bicarbonate: an 1H‐NMR study
Authors: Nunn Peter B. , O'Brien Paul
Published: July 2002

The mode of action of the neurotoxic, non‐protein amino acid β‐N‐methylamino‐L‐alanine (L‐BMAA) is unknown. We have shown, using 1H‐NMR spectroscopy, that L‐BMAA forms a stable adduct with bicarbonate (probably a carbamate). The properties of this adduct may explain the observation that L‐BMAA and N‐methyl‐D‐aspartic acid appear to act at the same central nervous system receptors.
Interleukin‐6 expression by fibroblasts grown in three‐dimensional gel cultures
Authors: Eckes Beate , Hunzelmann Nicolas , Ziegler-Heitbrock H.-W.Löms , Urbanski Agatha , Luger Thomas , Krieg Thomas , Mauch Cornelia
Published: July 2002

We investigated the expression and biological activity of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) by human fibroblasts cultured as monolayers and within three‐dimensional type I collagen lattices. In the course of contracting the gel to a dense tissue‐like structure, the cells upregulated their levels of IL‐6 mRNA as well as IL‐6 biological activity. While there was little mRNA and protein activity (6,500 U/ml) in monolayer cultures, fibroblasts in the 3D system showed a 13‐fold increase in IL‐6 mRNA on day 3. IL‐6 protein was increased 6‐fold (38,000 U/ml) on day 4. Stimulation of fibroblast cultures with IL‐1α resulted in enhanced IL‐6 production in both systems, but the fibroblasts embedded into the 3D network continued to exhibit higher levels.
Photoaffinity labeling of DNA polymerase α DNA primase complex based on the catalytic competence of a dNTP reactive analog
Authors: Doronin S.V. , Dobrikov M.I. , Lavrik O.I.
Published: July 2002

FABdCTP was found to be a substrate of DNA polymerization catalyzed by a DNA polymerase α‐DNA primase complex on the 5′‐GTGAGTAAGTGGAGTTTGGCACGAT‐3′ template and 3′‐CTCAAACCGT‐5′ primer. After complete primer extension in the presence of FABdCTP under UV‐irradiatin of the reaction mixture, 70% or the template was covalently linked to the primer. Labeling or the 165 kDa subunit of the DNA polymerase α, 59 kDa and 49 kDa subunits of the DNA primase and an unknown protein with apparent molecular weight or 31 kDa was observed. By another way of protein labeling FABdCTP was covalently bound to the subunits of the enzyme under UV irradiation and then this moiety was introduced into the 3′‐end of the 5′‐[32P]primer by the catalytic activity of DNA polymerase or DNA primase. In this case covalent labeling of the 165 kDa, 49 kDa and 31 kDa subunits was observed.
Differential expression of keratan sulphate proteoglycans fibromodulin, lumican and aggrecan in normal and fibrotic rat liver
Authors: Krull N.B. , Gressner A.M.
Published: July 2002

In this study we investigated in rat liver the expression of genes coding for the core proteins of fibromodulin, lumican and aggrecan. By means of Northern analysis and in situ hybridization we present evidence for their differential transcription during liver fibrogenesis. Whereas no fibromodulin expression could been detected, both lumican and aggrecan transcripts were found displaying different time‐courses of expression during the fibrogenic process. Based on studies performed in non‐hepatic tissues, these proteoglycans are considered to have keratan sulphate glycosaminoglycan side chains. The expression of the respective core protein genes in liver is unexpected since published data have shown neither keratan sulphate nor its synthesis de novo in this tissue. The results also point to a putative role of aggrecan in the modulation of the inflammatory process in the liver.
Internalization and degradation of hepatocyte growth factor in hepatocytes with down‐regulation of the receptor/c‐Met
Authors: Naka Daiji , Shimomura Takeshi , Yoshiyama Yoshiko , Sato Maki , Sato Mutsumi , Ishii Takehisa , Hara Hiroto
Published: July 2002

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) promotes proliferation of cultured hepatocytes by its interaction with cell surface receptors. In this paper, we examined the metabolic fate of HGF using hepatocytes. Kinetic analysis using [125I]HGF showed that 40% of surface‐bound HGF was rapidly internalized in hepatocytes within 30 min at 37°C. Under these conditions, the amount of HGF‐bound c‐Met, the high‐affinity receptor, decreased from the cell surface. Furthermore, the internalized HGF was degraded and released from the cells. These results indicate that cell surface‐bound HGF is internalized and degraded by the receptors, including c‐Met, on hepatocytes.
Brefeldin A blocks protein glycosylation and RNA replication of vesicular stomatitis virus
Authors: Irurzun Alicia , Pérez Luis , Carrasco Luis
Published: July 2002

Brefeldin A is a macrolide antibiotic that interferes with membrane traffic and blocks the growth of several animal viruses including vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). The inhibition of VSV by brefeldin A takes place at least at two different steps during the growth cycle: the glycosylation of VSV G protein and the replication of viral genomes. Our results indicate that interference with membrane traffic leads not only to inhibition of viral protein glycosylation, but also to the blockade of virus genome replication in several cytoplasmic RNA‐containing viruses.
Wound‐induced systemic accumulation of a transcript coding for a Bowman‐Birk trypsin inhibitor‐related protein in maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings
Authors: Eckelkamp Claudia , Ehmann Bruno , Schöpfer Peter
Published: July 2002

The wound‐induced accumulation of a transcript coding for a polypeptide of 72 amino acid residues in maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings was investigated. Sequence comparison showed strong homology with Bowman‐Birk trypsin inhibitors of cereal and legume species. The local accumulation pattern of this transcript demonstrated, after wounding various parts of the seedling, a local as well as a systemic response which implies the transmission of a wound signal specifically from the lower to the upper parts of the plant.
Efficient transient expression system based on square pulse electroporation and in vivo luciferase assay of fertilized fish eggs
Authors: Müller Ferenc , Lele Zsolt , Váradi László , Menczel László , Orbán László
Published: July 2002

Electroporation mediated DNA transfer into fish eggs has been improved by using a train of square pulses. Fertilized eggs of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus), zebrafish (Brachydanio rerio) and rosy barb (Barbus conchonius) were dechorionated enzymatically followed by application of pulses. Efficiency of plasmid DNA delivery was significantly increased by applying multiple pulses on dechorionated eggs. Optimization of physical parameters such as field strength, pulse width and pulse numbers resulted in reproducible transient expression in 25–50% of embryos and larvae by using the firefly luciferase and the E. coli β‐galactosidase (lacZ) genes both driven by CMV IE1 promoter. Temporal luceferase expression was assayed using both qualitative (sheet film) and quantitative (scintillation counting) methods in developing embryos and fry in vivo. Spatial expression of lacZ was assayed by histochemical staining. A number of embryos revealed foreign gene product also localised in the vegetal pole of the embryo.