bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Wild Edible Fungi in the Meseta Purépecha, Mexico
Authors: Castro-Sánchez Eva Itzel , Moreno-Calles Ana Isabel , Meneses-Eternod Sue , Farfán-Heredia Berenice , Blancas José , Casas Alejandro
Published: July 2018

Mexico is an exceptional setting for ethnomycology since human cultures have interacted with fungi for thousands of years; the state of Michoacán is particularly important since nearly 11% of the fungi species recorded in Mexico occur there, 139 species being edible. This study aimed to analyze the taxonomic diversity and use forms of fungi, their position in worldview of people, and the management forms practiced on edible fungi in the Purépecha communities of Cherán and Pichátaro and the environmental problems in relationship with fungi management. We conducted semi-structured interviews during visits to regional markets, participant observations in harvesting areas, workshops, and presentation of results to the communities and communal authorities. We recorded ethnoecological information for 21 edible fungi species. The words jongo and terekua correspond to useful fungi in Purépecha, while jeramba refers to not edible fungi. In Cherán people identify different vegetation types where mushrooms occur; they recognize the “pinadas forest” dominated by Pinus leiophylla, “encineras” (dominated by Quercus crassipes), “tepamu forest” (dominated by Alnus acuminata), “sharhari forest” (Quercus aff. laeta), and grasslands, all of them sites where mushrooms grow. Fungi handlers identified environmental problems like land use changes, illegal extraction of forest resources, deforestation, unplanned urban growth, uncontrolled fires, livestock raising, and agricultural intensification, which affect fungi communities. In turn, these factors have secondary consequences like soil erosion, reduction of native vegetation and reduction of rainwater retention that directly disturb diversity, distribution, and abundance of fungi. Information from this study and workshops conducted with the community helped to design strategies for conservation of both forests and fungi.
Tailoring the Structural, Morphological, Electrochemical, and Dielectric Properties of Solid Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Arya Anil
Published: July 2018

Herein, we present preparation of solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) comprising of PEO, NaPF6 and varying fraction of Succinonitrile (SN) by standard solution cast technique. The morphological features and structural properties were studied by the FESEM, XRD, respectively. FTIR was performed to study the interactions between polymer host, salt, and SN. Impedance spectroscopy, Transference number measurements, LSV and CV were used to examine the electrochemical properties. The complex permittivity/conductivity & modulus were studied to understand the dielectric properties by evaluating the dielectric strength, relaxation time, hopping frequency and dc conductivity. Based on the experimental results an interaction mechanism is presented.
PENERAPAN BLENDED LEARNING BERBASIS APLIKASI SCHOOLOGY SEBAGAI UPAYA UNTUK MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR ADMINISTRASI HUMAS DAN KEPROTOKOLAN
Authors: Fidiatun Efi Nur , Indrawati Cicilia Dyah Sulistyaningrum , Ninghardjanti Patni
Published: July 2018

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui peningkatan hasil belajar peserta didik kelas XII AP 3 mata pelajaran administrasi humas dan keprotokolan di SMK Negeri 1 Surakarta melalui penerapan model pembelajaran blended learning  berbasis aplikasi schoology. Jenis penelitian ini adalah Penelitian TIndakan Kelas (PTK). Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, dapat disimpulkan bahwa penerapan model pembelajaran blended learning berbasis aplikasi schoology dapat meningkatkan hasil belajar peserta didik. Sebelum diterapkan model pembelajaran blended learning  berbasis aplikasi schoology nilai rata-rata kelas pada ranah kognitif 66,84 persentase ketuntasan 29,03%, ranah afektif persentase ketuntasan 64,52% dengan rata-rata nilai yaitu B, ranah psikomotorik rata-ratanya adalah 69,81 dengan persentase ketuntasan 48,39%. Pada siklus I hasil belajar peserta didik yaitu rata-rata kelas pada ranah kognitif 80,26 dengan persentase ketuntasan 87,10%, ranah afektif persentase ketuntasan 90,32% dengan rata-rata nilai yaitu B, ranah psikomotorik rata-ratanya adalah 79,68 dengan persentase ketuntasan 80,65%. Pada siklus II hasil belajar peserta didik yaitu rata-rata kelas pada ranah kognitif 85,29 atau dengan persentase ketuntasan 100%, ranah afektif persentase ketuntasan 100% rata-rata nilai yaitu B, ranah psikomotorik rata-ratanya adalah 85,03 persentase ketuntasan 100%.

 

Kata Kunci : blended learning, schoology, hasil belajar
Trigonometric Algorithm Defining the True Three-Dimensional Acetabular Cup Orientation
Authors: Snijders T.E. , Schlösser T.P.C. , van Gaalen S.M. , Castelein R.M. , Weinans H. , de Gast A.
Published: July 2018

Background:

Acetabular cup orientation plays a key role in implant stability and the success of total hip arthroplasty. To date, the orientation has been measured with different imaging modalities and definitions, leading to lack of consensus on optimal cup placement. A 3-dimensional (3D) concept involving a trigonometric description enables unambiguous definitions. Our objective was to test the validity and reliability of a 3D trigonometric description of cup orientation.

Methods:

Computed tomographic scans of the pelvis, performed for vascular assessment of 20 patients with 22 primary total hip replacements in situ, were systematically collected. On multiplanar reconstructions, 3 observers independently measured cup orientation retrospectively in terms of coronal inclination, sagittal tilt, and transverse version. The angles measured in 2 planes were used to calculate the angle in the third plane via a trigonometric algorithm. For correlation and reliability analyses, intraobserver and interobserver differences between measured and calculated angles were evaluated with use of the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results:

Measured and calculated angles had ICCs of 0.953 for coronal inclination, 0.985 for sagittal tilt, and 0.982 for transverse version. Intraobserver and interobserver reliability had ICCs of 0.987 and 0.987, respectively, for coronal inclination; 0.979 and 0.981, respectively, for sagittal tilt; and 0.992 and 0.978, respectively, for transverse version.

Conclusions:

The 3D concept with its trigonometric algorithm is a valid and reliable tool for the measurement of cup orientation.

Clinical Relevance:

By calculating the transverse version of cups from coronal inclination and sagittal tilt measurements, the trigonometric algorithm enables a 3D definition of cup orientation, regardless of the imaging modality used. In addition, it introduces sagittal tilt that, like pelvic tilt, rotates around the transverse axis.
Development and Initial Validation of the O&M VISSIT for Orientation and Mobility Specialists to Determine Service Intensity
Authors: Munro Heather R. , Darst Shannon , Pogrund Rona L.
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this study was to provide initial validation of the Orientation & Mobility Visual Impairment Scale of Service Intensity of Texas (O&M VISSIT) intended for use by orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists to determine a recommended type and amount of O&M services for students on their caseloads based on each student’s identified needs. The validity and reliability of the scale were calculated using a mixed-methods survey research design, with purposive expert sampling. The O&M VISSIT was found to be significantly valid in social and content validity and moderately valid in consequential validity. The O&M VISSIT is a moderately reliable tool to assist determine the appropriate type and amount of O&M services for all students on the O&M specialist’s caseload.
Acceptability of fall prevention strategies for older people with vision impairment
Authors: Dillon Lisa , Duffy Patricia , Tiedemann Anne , Keay Lisa
Published: July 2018

Despite the high risk of falls for older people with vision impairment, adherence to exercise-based fall prevention programs is low. We investigated the attitudes of older people with vision impairment to fall prevention programs as well as home modifications. This was completed through focus group and semi-structured interviews with 19 community-dwelling people aged ≥63 years with vision impairment. The results indicated that participants did not attribute falls to vision impairment, nor consider themselves appropriate candidates for a fall prevention program. Participants also reported such barriers as competing priorities, transport issues and comorbidities. It is recommended that exercise-based fall prevention programs cater to the unique challenges of this population, such as delivery in home by Orientation and Mobility Specialists.
Chemotaxis of Caenorhabditis elegans toward volatile organic compounds from Stropharia rugosoannulata induced by amino acids
Authors: Bian Jing , Zhang Haili , Meng Shuai , Liu Yajun
Published: July 2018

A variety of natural substances including both volatile organic compounds and water-soluble compounds play a significant role in the chemotactic behaviors of the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We observed chemotactic behaviors of C. elegans with respect to response to attractants produced by nematode parasitic fungus Stropharia rugosoannulata, which were partially induced by specific amino acids. The results of gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis suggested that 1-octen-3-ol was produced and benzaldehyde concentrations increased when L-phenylalanine was added to water agar plate. Similarly, the addition of L-tryptophan to the medium induced the production of benzaldehyde, 1-octen-3-ol and indole. The presence of L-phenylalanine and L-tryptophan increased the attraction of C. elegans to S. rugosoannulata. With attraction increased, nematode mortality increased more than 6 times higher.
Influence of Temperature on Susceptibility of CVS. Tifguard and Georgia-06G Peanut to Meloidogyne arenaria
Authors: Yuan Weimin , Holbrook C. C. , Chu Y. , Ozias-Akins P. , Dickson D. W.
Published: July 2018

Tifguard was released in 2008 as a peanut cultivar with a high level of resistance to Meloidogyne arenaria. Our objective was to determine the role of temperature on infection and development of M. arenaria in Tifguard compared to that in the nematode susceptible cultivar, Georgia-06G. Temperature affected the rate of nematode infection and development in both Tifguard and Georgia-06G (P ≤ 0.05). In Georgia-06G, egg-laying females were observed 25, 20 or 25 days after inoculation at 28°C, 31°C, and 34°C, respectively. There were greater numbers of nematodes entering roots and acceleration of development in response to 31°C compared with that at 28°C. There was, however, a decrease in the number of nematodes entering roots and their development was retarded at 34°C compared with that occurring at 31°C. Although second-stage juveniles penetrated Tifguard roots, they did not develop further at 28°C or 31°C; however, at 34°C both females, males, and a few egg-laying females of M. arenaria were observed. The optimum temperature for nematode infection and development was 31°C in Georgia-06G. In summary, it is unlikely that high soil temperatures would lessen the effectiveness of the nematode resistance gene in Tifguard.
Identification of HG Types of Soybean Cyst Nematode Heterodera glycines and Resistance Screening on Soybean Genotypes in Northeast China
Authors: Hua Cui , Li Chunjie , Hu Yanfeng , Mao Yanzhi , You Jia , Wang Mingze , Chen Jingsheng , Tian Zhongyan , Wang Congli
Published: July 2018

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines Ichinohe) is a serious soybean pathogen worldwide. HG Type 0 had been a predominant SCN in Heilongjiang province, the largest soybean (Glycine max L.) producing region in China. Recently, increased virulence on resistant cultivars originally developed for resistance to HG Type 0 was observed in fields. In order to identify new cultivars resistant to local SCN populations, two soil samples were collected from two counties (Anda and Wuchang) in which increased virulence on resistant cultivars occurred, and single-cyst cultures from each soil sample were maintained for more than five generations. Two single-cyst cultures from the Anda sample were identified as HG Type 1.2.3.5.6.7 and HG Type 1.3, and one single-cyst culture from Wuchang was identified as HG Type 2.5.7. Then 18 soybean genotypes, including 11 local cultivars originally developed for resistance to HG Type 0, were used to evaluate resistance response to the three identified SCN populations. Various levels of resistance or susceptibility to the three SCN populations were observed among 18 genotypes. Two tests produced similar results for the three SCN populations. Both ‘Kangxian12’ and ‘Kangxian13’ showed resistance or moderate resistance to HG Type 2.5.7, HG Type 1.2.3.5.6.7 and HG Type 1.3. The germplasm ‘09-138’ was resistant to HG Type 1.3 and HG Type 1.2.3.5.6.7. Cultivars with ‘Peking’-resistance were resistant or moderately resistant to HG Type 2.5.7 in both tests except for ‘Kangxian8’ in test 1. The identified resistant varieties would be valuable sources of breeding materials for resistance against multiple SCN populations.
The Structure of Node and Edge Generation in a Delusional Social Network
Authors: Martin John Levi
Published: July 2018

A rare set of data on a changing social network of personalities, drawn by a sufferer of Multiple Personality Disorder are investigated using random graph theory. The key features guiding the patient’s production of these wholly delusional networks, features which define her “schema” of social network, are derived by fitting a family of nested distributions. From this, we can derive a tentative hypothesis of how the laity may understand the logic of social networks, a hypothesis that is consonant with other forms of informal evidence.
The Usefulness of Chromogenic Media for Qualitative and Semi-Quantitative Diagnostic of Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: STEFANIUK ELŻBIETA M.
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of chromogenic media for isolation of bacteria from urine and direct identification of UTI pathogens. A total of 100 urine specimens were inoculated on blood agar and MacConkey agar as a reference method and on the following media to be tested: chromID® CPS® Elite (CPSE, bioMérieux), CHROMagarTM Orientation (BioMaxima), BD CHROMagar Orientation Medium (ORI, Becton Dickinson), CHROMagarTM Orientation (ORIE, Graso) and Brillance UTI Clarity Agar (UTI C, Oxoid). After a 24-hour incubation period, 47 Gram-positive cocci and 62 Gram-negative rods were observed. The specificity and sensitivity of all chromogenic media was 97.3% and 93.5% respectively for qualitative diagnostic; and 81.9% and 81.3% respectively for semi-quantitative diagnostic. The mean PPV and NPV of the chromogenic media were 98.7% and 87.7% for qualitative UTI diagnostic, and 90.9% and 71.9% respectively for semi-quantitative diagnostic.
METHODOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF LIPID EXTRACTION FROM BIOLOGICAL MATRICES
Authors: Vostrikova Natal’ya L. , Kuznetsova Oksana A. , Kulikovskii Andrey V.
Published: July 2018

The paper presents the studies on the degree of raw fat extraction from meat systems by various methods. Relative differences in extraction methods are shown depending on the polarity of solvents used. Fat was extracted using the classical Soxhlet method, as well as two-step extraction. Specially prepared model systems were used as test samples including both simple and multicomponent mixtures in the form of meat-and-bone meal, bone meal, and meat-and-plant meal. It was found that when using non-polar solvents, a large amount of polar lipids was lost. The influence of the solvent on the degree of extraction for glycerides, phosphatides, free fatty acids and oxidation products was shown. A number of experiments are presented and the results are given on the degree of fat extraction using mixtures of organic solvents with mineral acid. The studies allowed to choose the best extraction method for each type of meat and meat-containing raw materials. Based on the results, methodical recommendations are proposed on the use of hydrophobic and hydrophilic solvents and their mixtures. Methods of lipid extraction from food products after alkaline and acid hydrolysis are considered. Examples of fat determination by instrumental methods (refractometry) are given. Classical methods for fat content evaluation are described (Randall method, Twisselmann method, and Rushkovsky method).

Contribution

All authors bear responsibility for the work and presented data. All authors made an equal contribution to the work. The authors were equally involved in writing the manuscript and bear the equal responsibility for plagiarism.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.
SAFETY OF CANNED MILK AS AN INTEGRATED CRITERION OF THEIR TECHNOLOGY EFFECTIVENESS. RUSSIAN EXPERIENCE
Authors: Turovskaya S. N. , Galstyan A. G. , Petrov A. N. , Radaeva I. A. , Illarionovа E. E. , Semipyatniy V. K. , Khurshudyan S. A.
Published: July 2018

Providing the country’s population with quality food products in a demanded range and quantity is an important national economic task. A priori in the implementation of appropriate social and economic programs, an important place is taken by products of the dairy industry. Taking into account the geographical features and climatic conditions of Russia, strategic considerations, the existing fragmentation of the consumer market and economic factors, special importance is acquired by researches, aimed at improving traditional and developing new technologies for canned milk products, as  high-nutritional products with a pronounced priority of enhanced storage stability. The system of ensuring the stabilization of canned milk in storage is represented by two main blocks: technologically formed potential and post-technological requirements for its maintenance. The first forms the basic properties of the product and stabilizes them. The second one is to ensure the conditions under which the risks of initiation and/or intensity of the abiogenic and biogenic nature degradation reactions are minimized. To assess the canned milk quality and safety proposed and standardized a number of relevant indicators. However, taking into account the technology development, the expansion of the raw ingredients range, the requirements for the extension of shelf life and much more, the scope of the evaluation criteria for quality and safety indicators is constantly expanding, new methods of a priori and a posteriori analysis are being created, which is fixed in normative and technical documents, that are integrally reflected the level of modern technology. An analysis of the world tendencies in the development of canning, shows, that the reserves of improving the traditional technologies of dairy canned food, increasing their quality, are far from exhausted. Significant potential lies in the research of thermodynamic characteristics, functional and technological indicators of dairy products and further implementation of the obtained data, as system criteria of the technological operations rationality definition, the validity of production schemes, and the evaluation of product quality. The data, obtained over the last decades on the indicator of «water activity», inhibition of the degradation of micro and macro components, «barrier» conservation technologies and many other directions in various food systems can suggest, that it is possible to mediate most of the methodological approaches applied to canned milk technologies, to predict strategic, economic and social significance of such developments.
NFLUENCE OF FAT PHASE ONTECHNOLOGICALLY IMPORTANT INDICATORS OF ICE CREAM PLOMBIR WITHOUT EMULSIFIERS
Authors: Shobanova T. V. , Tvorogova A. A.
Published: July 2018

The determination of the technological functionality of milk fat particles in terms of their effect on the nucleation in ice cream plombir with a mass fraction of milk fat of at least 15% was the aim of the study. this work was carried out to justify the possibility of producing ice cream without emulsifiers — components that stabilize the air phase. It has been established that milk fat, with content of at least 15% in the ice cream, as a structural element of the system, positively influences the effective viscosity, which optimal value is necessary for the distribution of structural elements in ice cream. Besides the particles of milk fat in plombir are partially demulsified and there-fore are involved in the stabilization of the air phase because of their presence in a higher quantity if to compare with other types of ice cream due to its fragile protein-lipid shell. It promotes also the nucleation of ice crystals, thus ensuring their high dispersity. As stabilizers of the structure the products of physical modification are used, which firmly hold water in the structure, including after temperature fluctuations. the practical importance of the research was found in the development of ice cream plombir technology without the use of emulsifiers — a product without food additives or with a limited use of them.
Water and Sediment Microbial Quality of Mountain and Agricultural Streams
Authors: Pandey Pramod , Soupir Michelle L. , Wang Yi , Cao Wenlong , Biswas Sagor , Vaddella Venkata , Atwill Robert , Merwade Venkatesh , Pasternack Gregory
Published: July 2018

Increased public health risk caused by pathogen contamination in streams is a serious issue, and mitigating the risk requires improvement in existing microbial monitoring of streams. To improve understanding of microbial contamination in streams, we monitored Escherichia coli in stream water columns and streambed sediment. Two distinct streams and their subwatersheds were studied: (i) a mountain stream (Merced River, California), which represents pristine and wild conditions, and (ii) an agricultural stream (Squaw Creek, Iowa), which represents an agricultural setting (i.e., crop, manure application, cattle access). Stream water column and sediment samples were collected in multiple locations in the Merced River and Squaw Creek watersheds. Compared with the mountain stream, water column E. coli concentrations in the agricultural stream were considerably higher. In both mountain and agricultural streams, E. coli concentrations in bed sediment were higher than the water column, and principal component analysis indicates that land use affected water column E. coli levels significantly (p < 0.05). The cluster analysis showed grouping of subwatersheds for each basin, indicating unique land use features of each watershed. In general, water column E. coli levels in the mountain stream were lower than the USEPA's existing water quality criteria for bacteria. However, the E. coli levels in the agricultural stream exceeded the USEPA's microbial water quality criteria by several fold, which substantiated that increased agricultural activities, use of animal waste as fertilizers, and combined effect of rainfall and temperature may act as potential determining factors behind the elevated E. coli levels in agriculture streams.

Core Ideas

Watershed land use influences in‐stream pathogen contamination and hence public health risk.

The agricultural stream showed higher E. coli concentration than the mountain stream.

Increased forest and grassland use showed lower E. coli concentrations in stream water.

Increased agricultural land use showed higher E. coli concentrations in stream water.

The agricultural stream water column E. coli concentrations far exceeded USEPA recommended values.
Enrichments of Metals, Including Methylmercury, in Sewage Spills in South Carolina, USA
Authors: Emmons Alison M. , Bizimis Michael , Lang Susan Q. , Stangler William , Geidel Gwendelyn , Baalousha Mohammed , Wanamaker Emma , Rothenberg Sarah E.
Published: July 2018

Exposure to microbial pathogens is the primary concern of sanitary sewer overflows; however, sewage spills may also be a significant source of toxic metals, including methylmercury (MeHg). Between November 2015 and January 2017, after Hurricane Joaquin, surface water samples were collected routinely from three creeks in Columbia, SC. Routine sampling coincided with six sewage spills. Total mercury (THg) and MeHg (unfiltered and filtered) and 32 other metals (filtered) were measured. Compared with surface water samples, THg (unfiltered and filtered), MeHg (unfiltered), and 19 other metals were significantly higher in sewage spills (all log10–transformed) (two‐tailed t test, p < 0.05 for all, n = 38–42). Toxic weighting factors were applied to 18 metals, including THg and MeHg, in samples collected directly from sewage spills (n = 3–4) and a wastewater outfall (n = 5). On average, sewage was 18.2 and 12.0 times more toxic for THg and MeHg, respectively, and 1.75 times more toxic for all 18 metals, compared to treated effluent from the wastewater outfall. Results suggest sewage spills were a source of inorganic Hg, MeHg, and other metals to the receiving waters and may potentially contribute to water quality impairments.

Core Ideas

Sewage spills were a significant source of methylmercury (MeHg) to surface waters.

Sewage spills were a significant source of 19 (of 32) other metals, including copper.

Sewage was 1.75 times more toxic for 18 metals than treated wastewater.

Receiving waters are impaired due to copper and fish tissue MeHg.

Frequent sewage spills may contribute to water quality impairments.
Genome‐wide Association Study of Agronomic Traits in a Spring‐Planted North American Elite Hard Red Spring Wheat Panel
Authors: Godoy Jayfred , Gizaw Shiferaw , Chao Shiaoman , Blake Nancy , Carter Arron , Cuthbert Richard , Dubcovsky Jorge , Hucl Pierre , Kephart Ken , Pozniak Curtis , Prasad P.V. Vara , Pumphrey Michael , Talbert Luther
Published: July 2018

Inbred cultivars and advanced breeding lines have been subjected to numerous recombination cycles, have strong allelic selection for desired traits, and share important attributes for adaptation and agronomic performance. Genetic variation in elite gene pools captured using molecular markers is immediately useful for cultivar development. The primary goal of this study was to implement a genome‐wide association study for 17 agronomic traits using elite inbred lines. A panel consisting of 237 elite hard red spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) lines from different wheat breeding institutions in North America were evaluated in 11 locations over 2 yr. A total of 19,192 polymorphic single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers from the Illumina 90K SNP array and markers linked to major genes controlling plant height, photoperiod sensitivity, and vernalization were used to assay the population. Linkage disequilibrium was observed to decay within a map distance of ∼3 cM in the A and B genomes and 7 cM in the D genome. A total of 226 marker‐trait associations were identified. Potentially novel associations were detected for grain yield on chromosome 2B and kernels per spike on 1B and 7D, whereas others colocalized with well‐known adaptation loci for photoperiod response, vernalization, and plant height. The frequency of positive alleles for specific marker‐trait associations differed among the programs, suggesting targets for introgression by the respective breeding programs.
Soil Phosphatase Activities across a Liming Gradient under Long‐Term Managements in Kenya
Authors: Margenot Andrew J. , Sommer Rolf , Parikh Sanjai J.
Published: July 2018

Core Ideas

We investigated liming in soil mesocosms from 11‐yr managements: no input, mineral N+P, and manure.

There were minor or no changes in labile inorganic P, labile organic P, and microbial biomass P.

Changes in the activity of different phosphatases following liming depended on management.

Liming decreased acid phosphomonoesterase/phosphodiesterase across management systems.

Liming can impact the enzymatic component of soil P cycling in the short term.

Changes in the biological drivers of soil P cycling could contribute to improving P availability in weathered soils after liming. The effect of liming on P cycling was evaluated for a Rhodic Kandiudox in western Kenya under no fertilization (UNF), mineral N + P (MIN), and manure (ORG). Ca(OH)2 was applied at six rates in soil mesocosms to establish a pH gradient (4.7–6.4). Labile inorganic P (Pi) increased by ≤1.2 μg g–1 in response to lime and labile organic P (Po) was weakly affected. In MIN, microbial biomass P (Pmic) decreased at ≥6.0 Mg ha–1 (–24%). Liming changed phosphatase activity depending on the management and phosphatase type but did not reflect commonly proposed pH optima of phosphatases. In UNF and MIN, acid phosphomonoesterase activity decreased with pH, and alkaline phosphomonoesterase and phosphodiesterase activity showed minor changes. Liming under ORG altered activity by up to +16% for acid phosphomonoesterase, –16% for alkaline phosphomonoesterase, and +36% for phosphodiesterase. Similar trends were observed for Pmic–normalized activity, including decreased acid phosphomonoesterase under UNF and increased phosphodiesterase under ORG. Pmic–normalized acid phosphomonoesterase activity under ORG was unaffected by liming whereas Pmic–normalized phosphodiesterase activity exhibited a marked decrease under UNF. Across managements, the acid phosphomonoesterase/phosphodiesterase activity ratio peaked at pH 5.0 and decreased thereafter. Despite management‐induced differences in soil P availability, consistent changes in phosphatase activity ratios indicate a short‐term impact of lime on the enzymatic component of P cycling, which could translate to longer‐term changes in Po mineralization and available P.
BPC 157 and Standard Angiogenic Growth Factors. Gastrointestinal Tract Healing, Lessons from Tendon, Ligament, Muscle and Bone Healing
Authors: Seiwerth Sven , Rucman Rudolf , Turkovic Branko , Sever Marko , Klicek Robert , Radic Bozo , Drmic Domagoj , Stupnisek Mirjana , Misic Marija , Vuletic Lovorka Batelja , Pavlov Katarina Horvat , Barisic Ivan , Kokot Antonio , Japjec Mladen , Blagaic Alenka Boban , Tvrdeic Ante , Rokotov Dinko Stancic , Vrcic Hrvoje , Staresinic Mario , Sebecic Bozidar , Sikiric Predrag
Published: July 2018

Commonly, the angiogenic growth factors signify healing. However, gastrointestinal ulceration is still
poorly understood particularly with respect to a general pharmacological/pathophysiological role of various angiogenic
growth factors implemented in growth factors wound healing concept. Thereby, we focused on the stable
gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157, a peptide given always alone vs. standard peptidergic angiogenic growth factors
(EGF, FGF, VEGF), and numerous carriers. Further, we reviewed how the gastrointestinal tract healing could
be generally perceived (i) in terms of angiogenic growth factors, and/or (ii) through the healing of extragastrointestinal
tissues healing, such as tendon, ligament, muscle and bone, and vice versa. Respected were the
beneficial effects obtained with free peptides or peptides with different carriers; EGF, FGF, VEGF, and BPC 157,
their presentation along with injuries, and a healing commonality, providing their implementation in both gastrointestinal
ulcer healing and tendon, ligament, muscle and bone healing. Only BPC 157 was consistently effective
in all of the models of acute/chronic injury of esophagus, stomach, duodenum and lower gastrointestinal tract,
intraperitoneally, per-orally or locally. Unlike bFGF-, EGF-, VEGF-gastrointestinal tract studies demonstrating
improved healing, most of the studies on tendon, muscle and bone injuries provide evidence of their (increased)
presentation along with the various procedures used to produce beneficial effects, compared to fewer studies in
vitro, while in vivo healing has a limited number of studies, commonly limited to local application, diverse healing
evidence with diverse carriers and delivery systems. Contrary to this, BPC 157 - using same regimens like in
gastrointestinal healing studies - improves tendon, ligament and bone healing, accurately implementing its own
angiogenic effect in the healing. Thus, we claim that just BPC 157 represents in practice a pharmacological and
pathophysiological role of various peptidergic growth factors.
Electrochemical Analysis of Antipsychotics
Authors: Karadurmus Leyla , Kır Duru , Kurbanoglu Sevinc , Ozkan Sibel A.
Published: July 2018

Introduction:

Schizophrenia is seizures accompanied by severe psychotic symptoms, and a steady state of continuation in the form of periods of stagnation. Antipsychotics are now the basis of treatment for schizophrenia and there is no other molecule that is antipsychotic priority in treatment. Antipsychotics can be classified into two groups; dopamine receptor antagonists such as promazine, fluphenazine etc. and serotonin-dopamine antagonists including risperidone, olanzapine, ziprasidone, aripiprazole etc.

Materials and Methods:

Electrochemical methods have been used for the determination of antipsychotic agent just as used in the determination of many drug agents. Nearly all of the antipsychotics are electroactive and can be analyzed by electrochemical methods. Electroanalytical methods offer generally high sensitivity, are compatible with modern techniques, have low cost, low requirements, and compact design. Among the most commonly used types, there are cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, square wave voltammetry and linear sweep voltammetry.

Conclusion:

The aim of this review is to evaluate the main line and the advantages and uses of electroanalytical methods that employed for the determination of antipsychotic medication agents used in schizophrenia. Moreover, applications of the methods to pharmaceutical analysis of Antipsychotics upto- date is also summarized in a table.
Investigating Intervention Components and Exploring States of Receptivity for a Smartphone App to Promote Physical Activity: Protocol of a Microrandomized Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Kramer Jan-Niklas , Künzler Florian , Mishra Varun , Presset Bastien , Kotz David , Smith Shawna , Scholz Urte , Kowatsch Tobias
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Smartphones enable the implementation of just-in-time adaptive interventions (JITAIs) that tailor the delivery of health interventions over time to user- and time-varying context characteristics. Ideally, JITAIs include effective intervention components, and delivery tailoring is based on effective moderators of intervention effects. Using machine learning techniques to infer each user’s context from smartphone sensor data is a promising approach to further enhance tailoring.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study is to quantify main effects, interactions, and moderators of 3 intervention components of a smartphone-based intervention for physical activity. The secondary objective is the exploration of participants’ states of receptivity, that is, situations in which participants are more likely to react to intervention notifications through collection of smartphone sensor data.

METHODS

In 2017, we developed the Assistant to Lift your Level of activitY (Ally), a chatbot-based mobile health intervention for increasing physical activity that utilizes incentives, planning, and self-monitoring prompts to help participants meet personalized step goals. We used a microrandomized trial design to meet the study objectives. Insurees of a large Swiss insurance company were invited to use the Ally app over a 12-day baseline and a 6-week intervention period. Upon enrollment, participants were randomly allocated to either a financial incentive, a charity incentive, or a no incentive condition. Over the course of the intervention period, participants were repeatedly randomized on a daily basis to either receive prompts that support self-monitoring or not and on a weekly basis to receive 1 of 2 planning interventions or no planning. Participants completed a Web-based questionnaire at baseline and postintervention follow-up.

RESULTS

Data collection was completed in January 2018. In total, 274 insurees (mean age 41.73 years; 57.7% [158/274] female) enrolled in the study and installed the Ally app on their smartphones. Main reasons for declining participation were having an incompatible smartphone (37/191, 19.4%) and collection of sensor data (35/191, 18.3%). Step data are available for 227 (82.8%, 227/274) participants, and smartphone sensor data are available for 247 (90.1%, 247/274) participants.

CONCLUSIONS

This study describes the evidence-based development of a JITAI for increasing physical activity. If components prove to be efficacious, they will be included in a revised version of the app that offers scalable promotion of physical activity at low cost.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03384550; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03384550 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/74IgCiK3d)

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPOR

DERR1-10.2196/11540
Diet-Induced Alteration of Microbiota and Development of Obesity, Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, and Diabetes: Study Protocol of a Prospective Study (Preprint)
Authors: Uittenbogaart Martine , Leclercq Wouter KG , Bonouvrie Danielle , Romeijn Marleen M , Luijten Arijan APM , Olde Damink Steven WM , van Dielen Francois MH , Rensen Sander S
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Development of obesity and obesity-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is associated with altered gut microbiota composition. The aim of this study is to investigate associations among dietary compounds, intestinal cell function, and gut microbiota composition. We hypothesize that dietary lipid intake is associated with Paneth cell and goblet cell properties that affect gut microbiota composition.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study is to determine whether a difference in dietary intake is associated with a difference in intestinal mucin-2 expression and gut microbiota composition.

METHODS

This is a single-center prospective study, including 1 obese group undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-y gastric bypass and 2 lean control groups undergoing either laparoscopic cholecystectomy or upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (n=228). During laparoscopy, biopsies will be taken of visceral fat (omentum majus), liver, muscle tissue of the abdominal wall, and subcutaneous fat. In the obese group, a small segment of the jejunum will be collected for analysis, which will be compared with an endoscopically derived jejunal biopsy from the upper gastrointestinal endoscopy control group. Stool samples for microbiota profiling will be collected at baseline and 1 year after surgery. Primary outcomes are fecal microbiota composition and mucus characteristics. Secondary outcomes include Paneth cell phenotype, body weight, diet composition, glucose tolerance, resolution of comorbidities, and weight loss 1 year after surgery.

RESULTS

This trial is currently open for recruitment. The anticipated completion date is December 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

The Diet-Induced Alteration of Microbiota and Development of Obesity, NAFLD, and Diabetes study will improve insight into the pathophysiology of obesity and its associated metabolic disorders. Better understanding of weight loss failure and weight regain following bariatric surgery might also behold new therapeutic opportunities for obesity and obesity-related comorbidities.

CLINICALTRIAL

Netherlands Trial Register NTR5660; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/5540 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/78l7jOZre)

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPOR

DERR1-10.2196/11553
COMPLEX TECHNOLOGICAL AND BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH OF SOLUTIONS FOR PERITONEAL DIALYSIS
Authors: Hudz Nataliia , Korytniuk Raisa , Vyshnevska Liliia , Wieczorek Piotr P.
Published: July 2018

Objective: The purpose of our work was to conduct technological, analytical, and biological investigations and stability studies of peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions containing glucose and sodium lactate in single-chamber containers.Methods: Different formulations of PD solutions were prepared and sterilized at a temperature of 121 °C during 15 m. UV-spectrophotometric determination was performed using purified water as a blank. The spectra of the solutions were run in the range of 220 to 400 nm for the identification of an absorption maximum (λmax) and measuring the absorbance at 228-230 nm and λmaxbefore and after heat sterilization. λmax of the most PD solutions after sterilization was found in the range of 273 to 281 nm. The potentiometric determination was done for pH measuring PD solutions before and after sterilization. Alternative analytical procedure of direct argent metric method was employed for fast measuring content of chloride ions. Viability of Vero cells was evaluated using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test, neutral red (NR) uptake assay, and sulforhodamine B (SRB) test.Results: The results showed that the absorbance of the most laboratory batches of PD solutions augments significantly with increasing an autoclave heating time to the sterilization temperature and time of its cooling after sterilization. The longer these parameters, the higher is the absorbance at 228-230 and 273-281 nm indicating 3,4-dideoxyglucoson-3-en (3,4-DGE) and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) contents, respectively. Glucose degradation is practically absent at short terms of heating and cooling an autoclave while sterilized samples are preserved sterile. Stability studies showed a significant decrease in the absorbance at 228-230 nm during storage with the achievement of a nadir and the following weak increase; an elevation or decrease in the absorption maximum; a substantial decline in the pH of the solution after sterilization and an insignificant pH decrease during storage. The viability of kidney cells was the highest in the SRB test and the lowest one was in the MTT test.Conclusion: The influence of sterilization regimes on the quality of conventional PD solutions and their stability during storage were studied. The highest cytotoxicity was detected in the MTT test, and the lowest one was done in the SRB test, indicating the largest vulnerability of mitochondria under the influence of PD solutions compared to the membranes permeability, functioning of kidney cell lysosomes and the ability of cells to synthesize proteins. Our studies could be useful in the context of planning development of PD solutions with the purpose of authorization and domestic manufacture of these solutions in low-and-middle-income countries.
EFFECT OF POLYMERS ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND DRUG RELEASE PROPERTIES OF TRANSDERMAL PATCHES OF ATENOLOL
Authors: Kumar Manish , Trivedi Vishal , Shukla Ajay Kumar , Dev Suresh Kumar
Published: July 2018

Objective: The objective of this research work was to develop a transdermal drug delivery system containing atenolol with different ratios of hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymeric combinations, using solvent evaporation technique and to examine the effect of hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of polymers on the physicochemical and drug release properties of transdermal patches.Methods: Solvent casting method has been used to formulate transdermal patches. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), Ethylcellulose (EC) in different combination ratios were used as the polymer. Propylene glycol was used as a plasticizer. Permeation enhancers such as span 80 were used to enhance permeation through the skin. In vitro diffusion study was carried out by franz diffusion cell using egg membrane as a semi-permeable membrane for diffusion.Results: Result showed that the thickness of the all batch of patches varied from 0.32 to 0.39 mm with uniformity of thickness in each formulation. Formulations F1 to F3 had high moisture content varied from 2.07±0.09 to 2.56±0.15 and high moisture uptake value varied from 3.21±0.35 to 4.09±0.38, due to a higher concentration of hydrophilic polymers. Drug content of all batches was ranged between 85.92±1.32 to 95.71±1.42. Folding endurance values off all batches were more than 75. Formulation batches F1 to F3 showed higher cumulative drug release varied from 61.34% to 68.11% as compared to formulation batches F4 to F6.Conclusion: Higher proportion of hydrophilic polymer in the formulation of transdermal patches, gives higher percentage drug release from prepared patches. The finding of the study indicates that hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of polymer effects the physicochemical and drug release properties of transdermal patches and an optimum proportion of hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymer is required for the preparation of effective transdermal patches.
NANOSPONGES: A REVIEW
Authors: Bhowmik Himangshu , Venkatesh D. Nagasamy , Kuila Anuttam , Kumar Kammari Harish
Published: July 2018

The recent advance in nanotechnology has lead to the development of targeted drug delivery system. However, targeting a molecule to a particular site using a drug delivery system effectively requires a specialized drug delivery system. The discovery of nanosponge has become a significant step in overcoming certain problems such as drug toxicity, poor bioavailability and release of drug in a predictable fashion as they can accommodate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drug. Nanosponges exhibit a porous structure in nature which has the unique ability to entrap the drug moieties and offers a merit of desire release. Nanosponges are tiny sponges that can circulate in the body to reach the specific site and binds on the surface to release the drug in a controlled and predictable manner. Nanosponges can be formulated by crosslinking of cyclodextrine with carbonyl or di-carboxylate (Crosslinkers). Nano sponge’s technology has been explored widely for the delivery of drugs for oral administration, topical administration, and parental administration. Nanosponges can also serve as an effective carrier for enzyme, proteins, vaccine and antibodies. The present review highlights the method of preparation, characterization and their potential application in drug delivery system.
FORMULATION DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF ALLOPURINOL SOLID DISPERSIONS BY SOLVENT EVAPORATION TECHNIQUE
Authors: Prasad Ramshetti Rajendra , Kumar Jadi Rajendra , Vasudha Bakshi , Kumar Chettupalli Ananda
Published: July 2018

Objective: The main objective of the research work is to develop and characterize allopurinol (ALPN) solid dispersions with different polymers to enhance solubility, enrich dissolution profile and improve patient compliance.Methods: ALPN solid dispersions were prepared by solvent evaporation technique using various grades of polyethelene glycol (PEG) such as PEG 4000 and PEG 6000 with different ratios like 1:0.5, 1:1, 1:1.5 and 1:2 and after formation of solid dispersions all physicochemical properties were examined.Results: All the formulations were found within the permissible pharmacopoeial limits for various physicochemical parameters. The pre-formulation studies, like Fourier, transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed the absence of drug-excipient interactions. The solubility and dissolution profiles of the sample were increased with increasing the concentration of ALPN solid dispersions. Solvent evaporation was proved to be a successful technique for the development of stable solid dispersion of ALPN. The dissolution amount percentage of ALPN formulations was found between 39.58±2.5 to 94.95±1.8 % within 60 min.Conclusion: Hence, from the all evaluation studies, it was evident that F1 formulation was the better formulation. F1 formulation (ALPN: PEG 4000 in the ratio of 1:0.5), 94.95±1.8 % drug released within 50 min.