bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New A-Frame Design for SAGD-Based Heavy Oil Production
Authors: Payvar R. , Williams S.
Published: March 2018

Individual Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) wellheads experience thermally induced growth on the order of 0.5 m to 1 m and create a bending moment or side loading due to thermal expansion. This wellhead thermal growth is large enough that ball joints are usually located in the piping system adjacent to the wellhead to accommodate the required growth and reduce the stress on wellhead connections and improve long term performance.

Typical design practice is to use two uniaxial swivel joints and one multiaxial flexible joint arranged at the bottom and middle points of the A-frame respectively. This design approach requires an alignment between the wellhead and adjacent piping that sometimes can't be achieved in the field.

The new A-frame design includes just one uniaxial swivel joint arranged at one bottom end of the A-frame (piping side) and two multiaxial flexible joints arranged at the other points of the A-frame. This configuration allows for the full 3-degrees of freedom needed to accommodate vertical and horizontal misalignment between the wellhead and adjacent piping. However, the stability of new A-frame design with different nominal pipe sizes under sustained load cases need to be evaluated by pipe stress analysis. The results of analysis revealed that the new A-frame design will be stable under sustained load cases without any risk of sagging in the field. Moreover, the new A-frame design has already started to be implemented within the industry and is validated under realistic field condition.

The novelty of the new A-frame design is in the ability to handle vertical and horizontal misalignment issues between the wellhead and adjacent piping during installation, reduce the installation times, increase the reliability of operation and reduce the nozzle loads at the wellhead side.
Ammonia as Alkali for High Acid Number Oils
Authors: Southwick J. G. , Brewer M. L. , Pieterse S. G. , van Batenburg D. W.
Published: March 2018

Prior work has shown that ammonia is a useful alkali for alkaline-surfactant-polymer (ASP) chemical floods. This paper extends the application of ammonia as alkali to high acid number oils. Ammonia as alkali seems ideal for high acid number oils as no appreciable ionic strength is generated by ammonia in solution, and the prospect for highly performing AP formulations exists (no cosurfactant required). Furthermore, the high number of moles of alkali/kg from ammonia is advantageous for the efficiency of logistics which is an especially critical factor in remote locations.

Our results show that for the specific crude oil and reservoir brine utilized in this study highly performing AP formulations are not obtained. The optimal salinity of petroleum soap from the crude oil is lower than the salinity of softened reservoir brine so a low-cost process is not possible without desalinization. Furthermore, the petroleum soaps do not generate low IFT with the soft brine, and an AP flood only recovered 7% of Sor.

With surfactants and crude oil evaluated in this paper ammonia is a suitable replacement for sodium carbonate for ASP formulations only if additional sodium chloride is added to the formulation in soft brine. Presently, the minimum amount of additional sodium chloride needed for high oil recovery is 0.5%. Economic evaluations need to be performed to determine the lowest cost option including an evaluation of logistics, (0.3% ammonia + 0.5% NaCl), or 2% sodium carbonate.
Steam Optimization Topic, Injection Rate Reduction vs. Surface Steam Quality Reduction
Authors: Al Shaibi Rashid , Al Abri Asim
Published: March 2018

Reduction of heat injection rate is a common practice in steam flood projects to reduce fuel cost and extend project economic life. Fuel consumption reduction can be achieved either by reducing the injected mass rate at same steam quality or reducing steam quality at same mass injection rate. This paper presents literatures review on this topic, analysis and observations from field data in a major steam flooding project south of Oman. Injectors wellhead temperature and pressure was used to identify saturation status of injected fluid and correlate count of hot water injectors with changes in surface pipelines steam quality. Portable steam quality measurement units were utilized to obtain numerous surveys to analyze changes in injectors wellhead steam quality as results of field average generated steam quality. In addition, conceptual pattern simulation model was created for purpose of investigating the impact of reducing surface steam quality compared to reduction of injected mass with total injected head preserved. Results and conclusions are presented to illustrate the impact of the compared steam optimization methods. Clear correlation was observed from both, field data analysis and reservoir modeling work and produced water cut changes. Comprehensive analysis is presented to demonstrate the relation between steam quality distribution at injectors' wellheads and changes in surface injection lines average steam quality and the count of sub-saturated water injectors.
Steamflooding Heavy Oil in a Naturally Fractured Carbonate Reservoir in Sultanate of Oman: A Case Study
Authors: Malik Sanjeev , Al Balushi Mohammed , Al Salmi Salim , Al Belushi Aamer , Al Ismali Faris , Al Qassabi Fahad
Published: March 2018

Since the discovery of the Khuff and Kahmah reservoirs at Mukhaizna field in 2010, Oxy Oman has faced a number of challenges in producing heavy oil (8000-20,000 cP) from these carbonate reservoirs. These large, low-productivity reservoirs have few analogues in the world, so Oxy has had to find our own way, pioneering new approaches to bring these reserves to market. In addition to the complicated geology of these naturally fractured, vuggy, and dolomitized carbonate reservoirs, identifying the right steam injection method and selecting the best artificial lift system were critical to the success of the project.

This paper covers the staged field development methodology, which we found to be beneficial for reducing both geological and reservoir engineering uncertainties. We will share our analysis and evaluation of various development concepts, including steamflooding, sequential steam injection, and scheduling cyclic steam stimulation across the field to optimize overall field production rates.

Our focus on data gathering and analysis has enabled us to optimize both our completion design and artificial lift selection, which has reduced downtime and lowered operating costs by nearly 50%. Persistent efforts by our engineers during the past two years have resulted in peak oil production this year – without any significant drilling activity.
An Iterative Method for Empirically-Based Q-Matrix Validation
Authors: TERZİ Ragip , DE LA TORRE Jimmy
Published: March 2018

In cognitive diagnosis modeling, the attributes
required for each item are specified in the Q-matrix. The traditional way of
constructing a Q-matrix based on expert opinion is inherently subjective,
consequently resulting in serious validity concerns. The current study proposes
a new validation method under the deterministic inputs, noisy “and” gate (DINA)
model to empirically validate attribute specifications in the Q-matrix. In
particular, an iterative procedure with a modified version of the sequential
search algorithm is introduced. Simulation studies are conducted to compare the
proposed method with existing parametric and nonparametric methods. Results
show that the new method outperforms the other methods across the board.
Finally, the method is applied to real data using fraction-subtraction data.
Ownership structure and bank performance
Authors: Agustin Hamdi , Indrastuti Sri , Rusli Tanjung Amris , Said Muhammad
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the performance of banks in Indonesia. Specifically, this study has examined the static effect of ownership structure on bank performance in Indonesia over the period 1995–2006. The sample consists of 74 banks, namely 56 private banks, 15 community development banks (BPD), and three federal banks from 1995 to 2006. The data was analyzed using least-squares regression method, the general least squares method, and the method of random effects. The findings of this study show that the BPD performed better compared to private banks. This indicates that BPDs have better performance rather than private banks which is due to the fact that customers can be able to pay loans, they have special knowledge on that area and the performance of BPD is supervised by local government. In addition, the amount of equity, economic growth, financial crisis, and the financial ratios affect the performance of the bank. However, bank status has no effect on bank performance.
Exploring motives behind Generation Y’s smartphone purchase
Authors: Welcome Madinga Nkosivile , Bongazana Dondolo Hilda
Published: March 2018

Considering the increase in smartphones, it becomes important to understand why people buy them. The purpose of this paper is to examine Generation Y’s motives behind smartphone purchases. The study made use of a qualitative research paradigm. Focus group interviews were selected as the method of data collection. Focus group members ranged from seven to ten. A total of 81 (N = 81) South African Generation Y were interviewed. The findings indicate that Generation Y consider quality and technical features when buying smartphones. Additionally, this study also observed that this cohort is status conscious and easily influenced by their friends when making purchase decisions.
Theoretical and methodological basis for technology transfer from universities to the business environment
Authors: I. Chukhray Nataliya , Mrykhina Oleksandra
Published: March 2018

The modern concept of open innovation highlights the role of technology transfer from universities to the business environment. An increase in technology transfer efficiency is one of the tasks assigned to Ukrainian universities by the state. The nature of technology transfers in the world and the role of universities in this process call for revising traditional approaches to its production in Ukraine. This stipulated the substantiation of theoretical and methodological principles of technology transfer from universities to the business environment, which should serve as a fundamental platform for further economic, technological and other actions in the innovation development of Ukraine. For this purpose, the modern theoretical and applied components of technology transfer from universities to the business environment are researched; the theoretical and methodological principles of technology transfer are determined and the conceptual approach to understanding technology transfer from universities to the business environment is proved. To achieve the tasks at hand, the background and trends in technology transfer from universities to the business environment have been researched; the role of universities in modern technology transfers is analyzed; the peculiarities and potential of the scientific area of Ukraine are considered; the influence of university technology transfer centers on the universities’ academic entrepreneurship has been studied; the nature of knowledge transformation during the technology transfer is substantiated; the influence of technology transfer on the university subsystems is considered; the effects of technology transfer are investigated; models of interaction in the system “University – Governmental Authority – Business” are studied; and modern approaches to the technology transfer from universities to the business environment are researched. Given the research conducted, theoretical and methodological principles for technology transfer were formed, which conceptualize the technology transfer from universities to the business environment.
Combining high-rate aerobic wastewater treatment with anaerobic digestion of waste activated sludge at a pulp and paper mill
Authors: Magnusson Björn , Ekstrand Eva-Maria , Karlsson Anna , Ejlertsson Jörgen
Published: March 2018

The activated sludge process within the pulp and paper industry is generally run to minimize the production of waste activated sludge (WAS), leading to high electricity costs from aeration and relatively large basin volumes. In this study, a pilot-scale activated sludge process was run to evaluate the concept of treating the wastewater at high rate with a low sludge age. Two 150 L containers were used, one for aeration and one for sedimentation and sludge return. The hydraulic retention time was decreased from 24 hours to 7 hours, and the sludge age was lowered from 12 days to 2–4 days. The methane potential of the WAS was evaluated using batch tests, as well as continuous anaerobic digestion (AD) in 4 L reactors in mesophilic and thermophilic conditions. Wastewater treatment capacity was increased almost four-fold at maintained degradation efficiency. The lower sludge age greatly improved the methane potential of the WAS in batch tests, reaching 170 NmL CH4/g VS at a sludge age of 2 days. In addition, the continuous AD showed a higher methane production at thermophilic conditions. Thus, the combination of high-rate wastewater treatment and AD of WAS is a promising option for the pulp and paper industry.
The Role of (Modified) Lipoproteins in Vascular Function: A Duet Between Monocytes and the Endothelium
Authors: Schnitzler Johan G. , Dallinga-Thie Geesje M. , Kroon Jeffrey
Published: March 2018

Over the last century, many studies have demonstrated that low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a key risk factor of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) related to atherosclerosis. Thus, for these CVD patients, LDL lowering agents are commonly used in the clinic to reduce the risk for CVD. LDL, upon modification, will develop distinct inflammatory and proatherogenic potential, leading to impaired endothelial integrity, influx of immune cells and subsequent increased foam cell formation. LDL can also directly affect peripheral monocyte composition, rendering them in a more favorable position to migrate and accumulate in the subendothelial space. It has become apparent that other lipoprotein particles, such as triglyceride- rich lipoproteins or remnants (TRL) and lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] may also impact on atherogenic pathways. Evidence is accumulating that Lp(a) can promote peripheral monocyte activation, eventually leading to increased transmigration through the endothelium. Similarly, remnant cholesterol has been identified to play a key role in endothelial dysfunction and monocyte behavior. In this review, we will discuss recent developments in understanding the role of different lipoproteins in the context of inflammation at both the level of the monocyte and the endothelium.
Development of Bruton’s Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Lv Jiahui , Wu Jingde , He Feng , Qu Ying , Zhang Qiuqiong , Yu Chenggong
Published: March 2018

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease and becomes one of the major
causes of disability and work force loss. The presence of abnormal B cell and autoantibodies produced
by most RA patients, primarily ACPA and RF, indicate that the function of B cell was involved in the
development of RA disease. Accordingly, the drug targeting B cell has become a hot spot in the treatment
of RA. Studies have shown that Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) is involved in the regulation of B
cell proliferation and activation process. Some small molecule BTK inhibitors have shown excellent inhibition
in biological activity analysis and animal models. Therefore, this review will briefly introduce
BTK and its role in cell signaling and overview recent progress of BTK inhibitors for RA treatment.
A Comparative Pharmacokinetic Profile of Trahydropalmatine After Oral Administration of its Monomer, Rhizoma Corydalis Alkaloid Extracts and Tong-Bi-Si-Wei-Fang to Rats
Authors: Ni Lijun , Ding Lu , Zhang Liguo , Luan Shaorong
Published: March 2018

Background:

Tong-Bi-Si-Wei-Fang (TBSWF) is a candidate formula of Traditional Chinese
Medicine (TCM) for treating rheumatoid bone diseases, which is composed of rhizoma corydalis alkaloids,
saponins of glycyrrhiza uralensis and panax notoginseng, flavonoids of rhizoma drynariae and
glycyrrhiza uralensis.

Objective: Trahydropalmatine (THP), the main active ingredient of rhizoma corydalis alkaloids, was
selected to study in vivo pharmacokinetics and druggability of TBSWF.

Methods:

The plasma concentration-time (C-T) profiles of THP and the pharmacokinetic property parameters
after oral administration of THP monomer, extract of corydalis alkaloids (ECA) and TBSWF
to rats, respectively were compared by a fully-validated HPLC method.

Results:

Compared to the THP monomer, the THP in TBSWF is absorbed faster, resides in the plasma
longer and has a similar apparent volume of distribution Vz/F (10~20 L/kg). Compared to THP monomer
and THP in TBSWF, the area under the concentration-time curve AUC 0-t of THP in ECA decreases
two-third; Vz/F of THP in ECA (85.02 L/kg) is significantly higher than that of THP in
TBSWF(p <0.05). Unlike THP monomer and THP in ECA, double peaks are observed in the C-T profile
of THP after oral administration of TBSWF. THP in TBSWF exhibits slow release to a certain degree.

Conclusion:

The interactions among the ingredients of TBSWF promote the adsorption and prolong the
residence time of THP in vivo, and provide an explanation for the advantages of TBSWF from the point
of pharmacokinetics.
Double Edge Sword Behavior of Carbendazim: A Potent Fungicide With Anticancer Therapeutic Properties
Authors: Goyal Karan , Sharma Ajay , Arya Ridhima , Sharma Rohit , Gupta Girish K. , Sharma Anil K.
Published: March 2018

Background:

A number of benzimidazole derivatives such as benomyl and carbendazim have been
known for their potential role as agricultural fungicides. Simultaneously carbendazim has also been found to
inhibit proliferation of mammalian tumor cells specifically drug and multidrug resistant cell lines.

Objective:

To understand the dual role of Carbendazim as a fungicide and an anticancer agent, the study has been
planned referring to the earlier studies in literature.

Results:

Studies carried out with fungal and mammalian cells have highlighted the potential role of carbendazim in
inhibiting proliferation of cells, thereby exhibiting therapeutic implications against cancer. Because of its
promising preclinical antitumor activity, Carbendazim had undergone phase I clinical trials and is under further
clinical investigations for the treatment of cancer. A number of theoretical interactions have been pinpointed.
There are many anticancer drugs in the market, but their usefulness is limited because of drug resistance in a
significant proportion of patients. The hunger for newer drugs drives anticancer drug discovery research on a
global platform and requires innovations to ensure a sustainable pipeline of lead compounds.

Conclusion:

Current review highlights the dual role of carbendazim as a fungicide and an anticancer agent.
Further, the harmful effects of carbendazim and emphasis upon the need for more pharmacokinetic studies and
pharmacovigilance data to ascertain its clinical significance, have also been discussed.
4-aryl/heteroaryl-4H-fused Pyrans as Anti-proliferative Agents: Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Kumar Dinesh , Singh Gurpreet , Sharma Pooja , Qayum Arem , Mahajan Girish , Mintoo M.J. , Singh Shashank Kumar , Mondhe Dilip Manikrao , Bedi P.M.S. , Jain Subheet K. , Gupta Girish Kumar
Published: March 2018

Aims:

The current study is focused on the design and synthesis of 4-aryl/heteroaryl-4H-fused pyrans as
anti-proliferative agents. All the synthesized molecules were screened against a panel of human carcinoma cell lines.

Description:

Significant inhibition was exhibited by the compounds against HCT-116 (Colon) and PC-3 (Prostate)
cell lines while A-549 (Lung) cell lines, MiaPaCa-2 (Pancreatic) cell lines and HL-60 (Leukemia Cancer) cell lines
were almost resistant to the exposure of the test compounds. Compound FP-(v)n displayed noteworthy cytotoxicity
towards HCT-116 malignant cells with the IC50 value of 0.67 µM. It induces apoptosis as revealed by several
biological endpoints like apoptotic body formation, through DAPI staining, phase contrast microscopy and
mitochondrial membrane potential loss. Moreover FP-(v)n is a potent apoptotic inducer confirmed by cell cycle
arrest and ROS generation. The cell phase distribution studies indicate an augment from 4.94 % (control sample) to
39.68 % (sample treated with 1.5 µM compound FP-(v)n) in the apoptotic population. Compound FP-(v)n inhibits
the tumor growth in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC), Ehrlich Tumor (ET, solid) and sarcoma-180 (solid) mice
models. Additionally, it was established to be non-toxic at maximum tolerated dose of 1000 mg/kg in acute oral
toxicity in Swiss-albino mice.

Conclusion:

The current study provides an insight into anti-cancer potential of FP-(v)n, which might be valuable in
the treatment of tumor.
An Investigation of the Effects of Curcumin on the Changes in the Central Nervous System of Rats Exposed to Aroclor 1254 in the Prenatal Period
Authors: Alcigir Mehmet Eray , Dogan Halef Okan , Dikmen Begum Yurdakok , Dogan Kubra , Vural Sevil Atalay , Yilmaz Fatma Meric , Isgoren Atilla
Published: March 2018

Background & Objective: Aroclor 1254 is a widespread toxic compound of Polychlorinated
Biphenyls (PCBs), which can create significant nervous problems. No remedies have been found to
date. The aim of this study was to reveal the damage that occurs in the central nervous system of rat
pups exposed to Aroclor 1254 in the prenatal period and to show the inhibiting effect of curcumin,
which is a strong anti-oxidant and neuroprotective substance.

Method:

The study established 3 groups of adult female and male Wistar albino rats. The rats were
mated within these groups and the offspring rats were evaluated within the group given Aroclor 1254
only (n=10) and the group was given both Aroclor 1254 and curcumin (n=10) and the control group
(n=10). The groups were compared in respect of pathomorphological damage. The immunohistochemical
evaluation was made of 8-hydroxdeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 4-hydroxynoneal (4HNE),
myelin basic protein (MBP) expressions and TUNEL reaction. The biochemical evaluation was made
of the changes in the TAS-TOS and Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) levels. Damage was seen to have
been reduced with curcumin in the 8OHdG and TUNEL reactions, especially in the forebrain and the
midbrain, although the dosage applied did not significantly change TAS and TOS levels. Consequently,
it was understood that Aroclor 1254 caused damage in the central nervous system of the pup
in the prenatal period, and curcumin reduced these negative effects, particularly in the forebrain and
the midbrain.

Conclusion:

It was concluded that curcumin could be a potential neuroprotective agent and would be
more effective at higher doses.
Corporate Real Estate in Malaysia Higher Learning Environment
Authors: Musa Mohd Fauzee , Ahmad @ Baharum Zarita
Published: March 2018

Corporate Real Estate (CRE) is regarded as a part of strategic management in the organization. It is attempted to create awareness and highlight the important of implementing CRE in the educational institution. Educational institution is now facing a challenging task of producing quality human capital and providing students with conducive environment that will enhance their learning, becoming more creative and match the service delivery. Thus, to achieve all this any educational institution has to adopt strategy that will help them to add values and enhance their competitiveness. This research is to investigate the components of CRE that create added value to the core business.
Ecological Perspectives of ICT Affordances in Malaysian Higher Education Learning Environment
Authors: Jamian Magdalina , Ab Jalil Habibah , Krauss Steven Eric
Published: March 2018

There is a continuous struggle on understanding learning settings, particularly with ICT integrations (i.e. incorporate the use of ICT in teaching and learning practice and environment). This paper aims to illuminate an alternative means of understanding the virtual learning environment which is through affordances (perception-action coupling). A qualitative inquiry was implemented in gathering participants' experiences and perceptions regarding ICT integration in teaching practices through focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews. This study shows that preferences for ICT integration in a learning environment are closely related to ICT affordances. Understanding ICT affordances is indispensable in order to assess the conduciveness of learning environments with ICT integrations.
Green Technology Design Approach for Liveable Park of Tasik Biru Kundang, Malaysia
Authors: Saffuan Rijal , Ariffin Junaidah , Amin Zamreen
Published: March 2018

Green Technology design approach is a new solution that must be applied to preserve nature and reduce pollution. There is so much innovation that could be used in the development of the park to reduce electricity use, eco-friendly and livable for the community. This paper aims to exemplify an effort by a group of students, through multi-professional inputs, in designing a city facility that can add more towards a livable city. The results of the approach are a multidisciplinary design that includes the idea of multi-professional in making a livable park for community surroundings Tasik Biru Kundang, Kuang, Selangor, Malaysia.
The Quality of Housing Produced by the Low Income in a Developing Country: A case study in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Emmanuel Jaiyeoba Babatunde
Published: March 2018

The paper illustrates how housing produced by the low income in Ogbere area of Ibadan is negotiated from the societal complex due to the inability of government to provide for them and low income housing not being attractive to the profit driven private sector. Quantitative and qualitative methods were adopted while using the lens of Lefebvre's theory of space to examine the people, the process and the houses produced. The findings necessitate situating low income housing standards, quality and policy interventions in the social context to upgrade the quality of life in urban areas.
Awareness among Terrace House Residents in Shah Alam towards Domestic Waste Recycling
Authors: Othman Ahmad Ridzwan , Yuhaniz Mayamin
Published: March 2018

About thirty per cent of our domestic waste is recyclable, hence, can be sustainably processed rather than disposing through incinerators and at landfills. Waste reduction and recycling activities are no longer an option but a necessary step to achieve a healthy life style and at the same time protecting our environment. Recycling can save more energy than burning waste because its process is simple and less pollution. This research is to measure recycle knowledge and awareness level of sample residents in Shah Alam, and their priorities or supports towards sustainability.  The findings will help the authority to address the issue.
An e-Prehabilitation System of Care for Teenagers and Young Adults Diagnosed With Cancer: Protocol for a Qualitative Co-Design Study (Preprint)
Authors: McCann Lisa , McMillan Kathryn A , Hewitt Christopher
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

A diagnosis of cancer in young adulthood can pose many different and unique challenges for individuals. The provision of adequate and appropriate information as well as care and support for teenagers and young adults at the time of diagnosis is central to their health care experience going forward. Moreover, appropriate and accessible information provision is critical to ensure that young individuals with cancer feel equipped and empowered to make decisions about, and be involved in, their treatment and recovery throughout their experience; this is a concept known as prehabilitation. As digital interventions and resources that support teenagers and young adults with cancer are an increasingly desirable part of health care provision, this study will focus on the development of an age- and population-appropriate electronic prehabilitation (e-Prehabilitation) system of care.

OBJECTIVE

We will conduct an exploratory, co-design research project that will inform the development of an e-Prehabilitation system of care to support teenagers and young adults diagnosed with cancer. A collaborative approach to data collection and prototype design will ensure that a patient-centered approach is embedded throughout.

METHODS

A qualitative, co-design study utilizing surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions is being conducted with teenagers and young adults, health care professionals, and technologists.

RESULTS

This research study is in progress; recruitment and data collection activities have commenced and findings are expected in early 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study will have important implications for informing the future development and evaluation of an e-Prehabilitation system of care to support teenagers and young adults diagnosed with cancer.

REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER

RR1-10.2196/10287
Privacy, confidentiality, and safety considerations for conducting geographic momentary assessment studies among persons who use drugs and men who have sex with men (Preprint)
Authors: Rudolph Abby , Young April , Havens Jennifer
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Geographic momentary assessments (GMA) collect real-time behavioral data in one’s natural environment using a smartphone and could potentially increase the ecological validity of behavioral data. Several studies have evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of GMA among persons who use drugs (PWUD) and men who have sex with men (MSM), but fewer have discussed privacy, confidentiality, and safety concerns, particularly when illegal or stigmatized behavioral data were collected.

OBJECTIVE

This study explores perceptions regarding privacy, confidentiality, and safety of GMA research among PWUD and MSM recruited in three different settings (rural Appalachia, a mid-sized city in the South, and a mid-Atlantic city).

METHODS

Between November 2014 and April 2017 we recruited 35 PWUD from rural Appalachian Kentucky (N=20) and Baltimore, Maryland (N=15), and 20 MSM from Lexington, Kentucky to complete semi-structured qualitative interviews. Through thematic analyses, we identified and compared privacy, confidentiality, and safety concerns by demographic characteristics, risk behaviors, and setting.

RESULTS

Privacy, confidentiality, and safety concerns varied by setting, age, smartphone ownership, use of illegal drugs, and history of drug-related arrests. Among those who used drugs, participants reported concerns with being tracked and burden associated with carrying and safeguarding study phones and responding to survey prompts. Privacy and confidentiality concerns were noted in each setting, but tracking concerns were greatest among Baltimore participants and led many to feel that they (or others) would be unwilling to participate or comply with study procedures. While locations considered to be sensitive varied by setting, participants in all settings said they would take measures to prevent sensitive information from being collected (i.e. intentionally disable devices, leave phones at home, alter response times).

CONCLUSIONS

Privacy, confidentiality, and safety concerns may limit the accuracy of risk location information, study compliance, and participation. As concerns were often greatest among those engaging in illegal behaviors and with the highest risk behaviors, selection bias and non-response bias could negatively influence the representativeness and validity of study findings.
Veterans� Perspectives on Fitbit Use in Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: An Interview Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ng Ada , Reddy Madhu , Zalta Alyson K , Schueller Stephen M
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

The increase in availability of patient data through consumer health wearable devices and mobile phone sensors provides opportunities for mental health treatment beyond traditional self-report measurements. Previous studies have suggested that wearables can be effectively used to benefit the physical health of people with mental health issues, but little research has explored the integration of wearable devices into mental health care. As such, early research is still necessary to address factors that might impact integration including patients' motivations to use wearables and their subsequent data.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of patients’ motivations to use or not to use wearables devices during an intensive treatment program for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). During this treatment, they received a complementary Fitbit. We investigated the following research questions: How did the veterans in the intensive treatment program use their Fitbit? What are contributing motivators for the use and nonuse of the Fitbit?

METHODS

We conducted semistructured interviews with 13 veterans who completed an intensive treatment program for PTSD. We transcribed and analyzed interviews using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

We identified three major motivations for veterans to use the Fitbit during their time in the program: increase self-awareness, support social interactions, and give back to other veterans. We also identified three major reasons certain features of the Fitbit were not used: lack of clarity around the purpose of the Fitbit, lack of meaning in the Fitbit data, and challenges in the veteran-provider relationship.

CONCLUSIONS

To integrate wearable data into mental health treatment programs, it is important to understand the patient’s perspectives and motivations in using wearables. We also discuss how the military culture and PTSD may have contributed to our participants' behaviors and attitudes toward Fitbit usage. We conclude with possible approaches for integrating patient-generated data into mental health treatment settings that may address the challenges we identified.
Effectiveness of Web-based Cognitive Bias Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review Protocol (Preprint)
Authors: Zhang Melvyn , Ying Jiangbo , Song Guo , Fung Daniel SS , Smith Helen
Published: March 2018

UNSTRUCTURED

Background:
Traditional psychological therapies focus mainly on modification of individuals’ conscious decision-making process. Unconscious processes such as cognitive biases have been found to be accountable for various psychiatric psychopathologies. The advances in technologies have transformed how bias modification programs are being delivered.

Objective:
We seek to synthesize the current evidence of web-based cognitive bias modification for psychiatric disorders, by identifying the range of conditions targeted and their current efficacy. We wish to determine if web-based attention bias modification is as efficacious as compared to conventional methods.

Methods and analysis:
A systematic review will be conducted, and all studies types will be included. There will not be any restrictions on the participants included in the study. A search will be conducted on the respective databases up till 2017. Selection of studies will be by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA-P) guidelines. Quality assessment of the included studies will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (for randomized trials) and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for other study designs. A narrative synthesises of the identified articles will be conducted. A meta-analysis will be considered, only if there are sufficient articles in a domain for statistical analysis. Ethical approval for the current protocol and the planned systematic review was not required.

Results:
Results synthesized would be disseminated using conference presentation or published works in peer-reviewed journals.

Conclusions:
This review is of importance given how technology transformed the delivery of conventional therapies. The findings from this review will provide guidance for future research involving technology and cognitive bias modification interventions.

Registration details: International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number 2017 CRD42017074754
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Safe Sleep on Twitter: Analysis of Influences and Themes to Guide Health Promotion Efforts (Preprint)
Authors: Pretorius Kelly A , Mackert Michael , Wilcox Gary B
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

In the United States, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of death in infants aged 1 month to 1 year. Approximately 3500 infants die from SIDS and sleep-related reasons on a yearly basis. Unintentional sleep-related deaths and bed sharing, a known risk factor for SIDS, are on the rise. Furthermore, ethnic disparities exist among those most affected by SIDS. Despite public health campaigns, infant mortality persists. Given the popularity of social media, understanding social media conversations around SIDS and safe sleep may assist the medical and public health communities with information needed to spread, reinforce, or counteract false information regarding SIDS and safe sleep.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of our study was to investigate the social media conversation around SIDS and safe sleep to understand the possible influences and guide health promotion efforts and public health research as well as enable health professionals to engage in directed communication regarding this topic.

METHODS

We used textual analytics to identify topics and extract meanings contained in unstructured textual data. Twitter messages were captured during September, October, and November in 2017. Tweets and retweets were collected using NUVI software in conjunction with Twitter’s search API using the keywords: “sids,” “infant death syndrome,” “sudden infant death syndrome,” and “safe sleep.” This returned a total of 41,358 messages, which were analyzed using text mining and social media monitoring software.

RESULTS

Multiple themes were identified, including recommendations for safe sleep to prevent SIDS, safe sleep devices, the potential causes of SIDS, and how breastfeeding reduces SIDS. Compared with September and November, more personal and specific stories of infant loss were demonstrated in October (Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month). The top influencers were news organizations, universities, and health-related organizations.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified valuable topics discussed and shared on Twitter regarding SIDS and safe sleep. The study results highlight the contradicting information a subset of the population is exposed to regarding SIDS and the continued controversy over vaccines. In addition, this analysis emphasizes the lack of public health organizations’ presence on Twitter compared with the influence of universities and news media organizations. The results also demonstrate the prevalence of safe sleep products that are embedded in safe sleep messaging. These findings can assist providers in speaking about relevant topics when engaging in conversations about the prevention of SIDS and the promotion of safe sleep. Furthermore, public health agencies and advocates should utilize social media and Twitter to better communicate accurate health information as well as continue to combat the spread of false information.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF LUMEFANTRINE CAPSULE PREPARED BY USING LIQUISOLID TECHNIQUE
Authors: Khan Amreen , Agrawal Shikha
Published: March 2018

Objective: The objective of present research work was to formulate and evaluate of Lumefantrine capsule by using novel liquisolid technique to give increased dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drug Lumefantrine.Methods: Formulation of lumefantrine capsule using drug solution and suspension method was used. Different liquisolid formulations were prepared using a mathematical model for calculating required quantities of powder and liquid ingredients to produce an acceptably flowable and compressible admixture. Liquisolid capsule formulation F-1 to F-9 were prepared by using different type and different concentration of non-volatile solvent like PEG-400, Tween 80, propylene glycol and avicels, aerosil as carrier and coating material respectively.Results: The liquisolid formulation were within the acceptable limits and drug release rates of all prepared liquisolid were distinctly higher as compared to pure drug. Lumefantrine shows maximum solubility in tween 80 as a non-volatile solvent. All the preformulation parameters were evaluated such as organoleptic characterization of the drug sample, melting point, pH, identification of drug samples by using UV spectroscopy and FTIR analytical method, preparation of calibration curves, solubility studies of drug sample like qualitative, quantitative and pH-dependent solubility of the drug in a buffer solution of different pH. They were further processed for solid-state characterization such as, DSC and SEM and the results confirmed the transformation of native crystalline nature of drug to an amorphous state. FTIR analysis also confirmed no drug-excipient interaction. Liquisolid formulations showed improved in vitro dissolution behaviour of lumefantrine over that of pure drug.Conclusion: From this study, it was concluded that liquisolid method is a promising alternative for improvement of dissolution property of water-insoluble drugs.
PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF IPOMOEA INDICA PLANT LEAF EXTRACTS
Authors: Yuvarani Seenu , . Selvam
Published: March 2018

Objective: The objective of this study was to phytochemical analysis and antibacterial activity of the Ipomoea indica plant leaves extracts.Methods: The crude powder of the plant leaf samples of I. indica was extracted using methanol and aqueous solvents and subjected to qualitative phytochemical analysis. The antibacterial activity of the aqueous and methanol extracts was tested at different for concentrations. The extract was tested against bacterial strains like Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Salmonella typhi, and Escherichia coli.Results: The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, glycoside, reducing sugars, saponins, steroids and tannins in the solvent extract. The antibacterial activity was performed by using the disc diffusion method, where the largest zone of inhibition was obtained with aqueous extract 75µ concentration against Salmonella typhi (26 mm). The antibacterial activity was compared with the standard antibiotics like Streptomycin.Conclusion: This study suggests that the aqueous extract of the I. indica leaves possesses bioactive compounds with antibacterial activity against the bacterial strains, which can be used to formulate new antibacterial drugs for disease control.
DOCKING STUDY OF METHYL HESPERIDIN AS NUCLEOSIDE REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE INHIBITOR
Authors: Riza Hafrizal , Fahrurroji Andhi , Wicaksono Arif , Nugroho Ahmad Kharis , Martono Sudibyo
Published: March 2018

Objective: This study aims to analyze the methyl hesperidin physicochemical properties related to solubility and permeability, and the affinity of methyl hesperidin against reverse transcriptase HIV-1 activity as a competitive substrate.Methods: This research was conducted using the computerized method, ChemOffice 15.0, to predict ligand physicochemical properties related to solubility and permeability, and Autodock Vina with Autodock Tools program to analyze ligand-receptor affinity.Results: The analysis result of physicochemical properties of hesperidin and methyl hesperidin is respectively 300,27 g/Mol, 1,78, and 314,29 g/Mol, 2,04. The docking result shows that the binding energy of hesperidin, methyl hesperidin and zidovudine with receptor are respectively-8,0,-8,8 and-9,3 kcal/Mol. The type of interactions between receptor and hesperidin is van der Waals and phi-phi staked, methyl hesperidin are van der Waals, hydrogen bond, phi-sigma, and phi-phi stacked, and zidovudine is an attractive charge, hydrogen bond, and phi-sigma.Conclusion: Methyl hesperidin has good solubility and permeability, and has affinity with the receptor, a substrate of reverse transcriptase HIV-1.
PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF TRIPHALA CHURNA INSTREPTOZOTOCIN (I. C. V.) INDUCED DEMENTIA IN RATS
Authors: Deka Purabi , Kumar Arun
Published: March 2018

Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate the memory improving activity of Triphala Churna hydro-methanolic fruit extract on learning and memory functions in Streptozotocin (I. C. V) induced dementia in rats by using morris water maze and elevated plus maze.Methods: A total of 42 albino wistar rats weighing 80-100 g were randomized into 7 equal groups as follows: Normal control group received normal saline (1 ml/kg p. o.) for 24 d, STZ treated group (3 mg/kg, i. c. v) were administered in two dosage regimen i.e. on first day and third day.), Standard group: Streptozotocin (3 mg/kg i. c. v)+Vitamin E (100 mg/kg/day p. o.) were administered for 21 d, Standard group: Streptozotocin (3 mg/kg i. c. v)+Rivastigmine (2 mg/kg/day p. o.) were administered for 21 d. The learning and memory-impaired rats were treated with Triphala Churna Formulation 1, Triphala Churna Formulation 2 and Triphala Churna Formulation 3 for 21 d (100 mg/kg p. o.). AchE activity, lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase, glutathione level of brain homogenate was estimated in Control/STZ (I. C. V)/Standard/Triphala Churna fruits extract treated rats.Results: Administration of Triphala Churna fruits extract significantly restored learning and memory impairment induced by STZ (I. C. V) in the elevated plus maze and morris water maze. Furthermore, in the TPLC F2 and TPLC F3 treated group brain AchE level was decreased (P≤0.01) as well as brain lipid peroxidation was also decreased (P≤0.001). Brain antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione level were increased (P≤0.001) in the TPLC1 and TPLC2 treated group when compared to the STZ treated group, TPLC F2 and TPLC F3 treated group showed significant (P≤0.001, P≤0.01) increase in superoxide dismutase level. Conclusion: Triphala Churna fruits extract has an improving effect on learning and memory impairment rats produced by Streptozotocin (I. C. V) and may have a useful effect in the treatment of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
PNEUMOCOCCAL BIOFILMS AND THEIR INTERVENTION STRATEGIES
Authors: Rahaman Lovely , Ghosh Sushanta , Nath Nandita , Sharma Bipin Kumar
Published: March 2018

Pneumonia is a fatal infection with hard time breathing, cough, and fever. The children are at high risk worldwide due to pneumonia. This is responsible for childhood mortality and morbidity worldwide. It is mainly caused by bacteria. Pneumonia-causing bacteria are resistant to most of the antibiotics and therapeutic agents due to the formation of biofilms. Laboratories around the world are trying to develop strategies to combat pneumococcal biofilms. This review deals with the formation of pneumococcal biofilms and their different intervention strategies.