bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effectiveness of influenza vaccination in preventing hospitalisations of elderly individuals in two influenza seasons: a multicentre case–control study, Spain, 2013/14 and 2014/15
Authors: Domínguez Angela , Soldevila Núria , Toledo Diana , Godoy Pere , Espejo Elena , Fernandez Maria Amelia , Mayoral José María , Castilla Jesús , Egurrola Mikel , Tamames Sonia , Astray Jenaro , Morales-Suárez-Varela María ,   the Working Group of the Project PI12/02079
Published: August 2017

Influenza vaccination may limit the impact of influenza in the community. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of influenza vaccination in preventing hospitalisation in individuals aged ≥ 65 years in Spain. A multicentre case–control study was conducted in 20 Spanish hospitals during 2013/14 and 2014/15. Patients aged ≥ 65 years who were hospitalised with laboratory-confirmed influenza were matched with controls according to sex, age and date of hospitalisation. Adjusted vaccine effectiveness (VE) was calculated by multivariate conditional logistic regression. A total of 728 cases and 1,826 matched controls were included in the study. Overall VE was 36% (95% confidence interval (CI): 22–47). VE was 51% (95% CI: 15–71) in patients without high-risk medical conditions and 30% (95% CI: 14–44) in patients with them. VE was 39% (95% CI: 20–53) in patients aged 65–79 years and 34% (95% CI: 11–51) in patients aged ≥ 80 years, and was greater against the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 subtype than the A(H3N2) subtype. Influenza vaccination was effective in preventing hospitalisations of elderly individuals.
Immunosuppressive Acidic Protein- Haematological correlates in HIV infected subjects
Authors: Olusola Olayanju Ayodeji , David Oyebola Temiloluwa , Yomi Akele Richard , Samson Enitan Seyi , Abraham Oladele Ayowole , Olurotimi Sanya Joseph , Joy Olayanju Aimien
Published: August 2017

Background: Immunosuppressive Acidic protein (IAP) is a marker of the extent of immune defects occurring in most cancers. Its correlation with CD4 cell count used as an indicator of immune function and disease progression in Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) infection is not well documented.Aims and Objectives: To determine if IAP levels correlates with immunosupression and haematopathology occurring in HIV/AIDS infection.Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti. One hundred and five participants consisting of 85 HIV infected test subjects and 20 control subjects were enrolled into the study. CD4 counts was obtained using SL Cyflow machine, IAP levels determined using ELISA kit for human IAP and Full blood count for all participants was obtained using Sysmex KX-21N Haematology Analyzer. Regression and correlation analysis was done on data using SPSS 28.Results: IAP showed a negative correlation with CD4 count (r= -0.6), (r= -0.9) and (r= -0.2) in the ART, NART and control groups. The pattern of the results was similar with other parameters except in Neutrophils (r= 0.2) (r= 0.3) and (0.1), Eosinophil (r= 0.6) (r= -0.4) and (r= -0.2) and Lymphocyte (r = -0.3) (r= -0.02) and (r= 0.05) in the ART, NART and control groups respectively. CConclusion: The outcome of this study show that a strong negative relationship exist between IAP and other immunohaematological parameters used for monitoring Immune status in HIV infection; however the information gotten is not sufficient to indicate IAP as a predictor of immune status in HIV infection. Further studies are therefore required to better elucidate the mechanism of increased IAP levels at different clinical stages of HIV infection.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(5) 2017 8-16
CA-125 requisition pattern in a tertiary care hospital in central India and necessary modifications
Authors: Amle Dnyanesh B , Verma Neha Rani , Bhargava Piyush , Rathore Sudama , Tirkey Neelam B , Patra Pradeep Kumar
Published: August 2017

Background: Utility of CA-125 is not limited to being tumour marker for only epithelial ovarian carcinoma but it has also been found to be elevated in various other benign and malignant conditions. This versatility also adds to increased prescription of CA-125 in non ovarian tumours and is also a reason for reduced specificity of CA-125 as tumor marker for epithelial ovarian cancer. Both these factors could lead to inappropriate frequent prescription and missed diagnosis.Aims and Objective: We thus carried out a case note audit aimed to assess the prescription pattern of CA-125 in daily clinical practice and its contribution to final diagnosis and management in a tertiary healthcare facility in central India.Materials and Methods: All the subjects advised estimation of CA 125 during the study period were included in the study. Data regarding sign and symptoms, provisional diagnosis was collected and serum CA-125 levels estimated.Result: Total 238 subjects were recruited for the study, out of them 221 (92.8%) were female and 17 (7.2%) were male. Mean age was found to be 43.95±13.88. S. CA-125 level were 32.30(3.24-5000) U/ml. Only 65% investigations were related to ovarian carcinoma and out of that abnormal CA125 levels were noted in 54% subjects. No oblivious indication was found in 14% subjects. Abnormal CA-125 levels were significantly low in frequency in follow up subjects as well as in subjects with no indication.Conclusion: Low specificity and versatility of CA-125 in diagnosis of various benign and malignant conditions may lead to inappropriate prescription of CA-125. This may cause additional economic burden as well as psychological stress to patients. This can be avoided by establishment of proper algorithm or guidelines to advice tumor markers and their strict implementation.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(5) 2017 17-21
Comparison of efficacy and safety of intravenous iron sucrose and intramuscular iron sorbitol therapy in patients with anemia during pregnancy in a developing country
Authors: Gaikwad Harsha Shailesh , Sindhu Anu , Sarda Nivedita
Published: August 2017

Background: Iron deficiency anemia due to poor nutritionis estimated to affect nearly two thirds ofall pregnant women in developing countriesparticularly in India. The responsible constellation of factors producing iron deficiency anemia generally precede the pregnancy, which includedeficient diet in iron content coupled with menstrual losses,generally a rapid succession of pregnancies and inadequate supplemental iron are a few to be blamed for a high incidence of anemia in such population.Aims and Objectives: To compare the efficacy and safety of iron sucrose versus iron sorbitol therapy in pregnant anemic patients.Material and Methods: Two-hundred antenatal women attending the out patient department having hemoglobin levels of 8 gm% or less were recruited in the study and were randomized into two groups for receiving intravenous and intramuscular iron therapy.Results and Conclusions: There was a significant improvement in the haematologicalparameters and no major side effects developed in the intravenous iron sucrose group.Though there was a significant improvement in the haematological parameters after intramuscular iron sorbitol therapy also butnone of the cases reached the target level of haemoglobinduring the observation period.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(5) 2017 31-35
Prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency in adolescent school girls of Dharan, Nepal
Authors: Limbu Nirmala , Thakur Dilip , Das Binod Kumar Lal , Choudhary Lok Bandhu , Pradhan Anju , Baral Dharanidhar
Published: August 2017

Background: The prevalence of anemia in adolescence girls are said to be 42 to 60% in Nepal. Iron deficiency results from prolonged deficit of iron in diet or increased need for iron during a period of intense growth like adolescence. However, the terms anemia, iron deficiency, and iron deficiency anemia are used interchangeably.Aims and Objective: We aimed to find out the prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency in adolescent school girls of Dharan, Nepal by measuring hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels.Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in higher secondary schools, including government and private schools, of Dharan conducted by the Department of Basic and Clinical Physiology, B. P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal. A total of 150 adolescent school girls of Dharan was selected by systemic random sampling method. Hemoglobin and ferritin levels were analyzed by cyanmethemoglobin method and immunoturbidimetric assay respectively. Descriptive statistics, paired t-test and chi-square test were used.Results: Anemic girls were 33.33% (n=50/150). Anemia with iron deficiency was identified in 17.33% girls (n=26/50) and anemia with normal iron level was in 16 % girls (n=24/50). Normal hemoglobin level with iron deficiency was identified in 9% (n= 14/100) girls and normal hemoglobin with normal ferritin level was in 57% (n=86/100) girls.Conclusions: Prevalence of anemia was less in the adolescent school girls of Dharan, Nepal, than the earlier documented reports in which only half the anemic adolescent girls were iron deficient; suggesting that the remaining other anemic girls had other causes of anemia.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(5) 2017 22-26
Study of febrile thrombocytopenia in Malwa region of India
Authors: Yadav Vishal , Singhai Abhishek
Published: August 2017

Background: Febrile thrombocytopenia is the thrombocytopenia associated with fever. Diseases which commonly present with fever and thrombocytopenia are malaria, leptospirosis, septicemia, typhoid, arbovirus diseases such as dengue.Aims and Objectives: The study was intended to know the underlying etiology of febrile thrombocytopenia in Malwa region and its various presentations.Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at Department of General Medicine of a tertiary care centre for two years. Five-hundred adult patients (age >18 years) of febrile thrombocytopenia were evaluated for possible inclusion in this study. Routine investigations including complete blood counts, peripheral smear examination, kidney function tests, liver function tests, ultrasound of abdomen were done in all subjects. The specific investigations were done as and when indicated.Results: Out of 500 patients of febrile thrombocytopenia, 298 were male, while 202 were female. Commonest symptom after fever was malaise (83%) followed by nausea-vomiting (76%), headache (63.4%), jaundice (26.8%), easy fatigability (22.4%), bleeding manifestations (7.8%), cough (6.8%), dyspnea (5.8%), rash (2.4%) and delirium (1.4%). Dengue was found in 178 patients. Malaria was found in 122 patients. Other causes of febrile thrombocytopenia were septicemia (22 cases), leptospirosis (12 cases), chikungunya fever (10 cases), viral hepatitis (9 cases), enteric fever (9 cases), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (2 cases), non-hodgkin lymphoma (one case), disseminated tuberculosis (one case).Conclusion: Febrile thrombocytopenia is an important clinical condition commonly caused by infections, particularly viruses and malaria. Such studies will help in finding changing trends of locally prevalent infectious diseases and finding some new emerging diseases not prevalent in the particular region.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(5) 2017 83-86
Data-Driven Urban Performance Measures
Authors: Cesme Burak , Dock Stephanie , Westrom Ryan , Lee Kevin , Barrios Jorge Andres
Published: August 2017

Performance measures typically are used by transportation agencies to measure progress toward organizational goals. As cities have reoriented their transportation priorities toward people instead of cars and have put more emphasis on multimodal transportation options, relatively few studies have identified measures that capture the urban context and are sensitive to the multimodal nature of urban transportation systems. Moreover, some studies have focused only on the measures without fully considering the available resources needed to capture these measures and the limitations in data. This lack often hampers implementation of performance measures and prevents agencies from creating a sustainable and reliable performance measurement program. The research presented in this paper defined a data-driven framework for monitoring mobility performance for urban transportation systems through a case study in the District of Columbia, conducted as part of an overall study to understand better the state of the District's transportation system. The study identified multimodal measures that were repeatable and that were supported by readily available, attainable, and reliable data sources. Measures that were common and could be compared across modes were considered in the selection process. The initial list was then refined and prioritized according to the data inventory by considering the availability and quality of data sources. Twelve multimodal measures that can be supported by valid, usable, and reliable data sets are recommended in the final metric list for evaluating multimodal mobility in the District.
Performance-Based Methodology for Evaluating Equity for Transportation System Users
Authors: Brodie Stefanie , Amekudzi-Kennedy Adjo
Published: August 2017

Planning for equitable outcomes in transportation requires the development of evaluation methods that support the integration of equity in planning processes. This paper presents a methodology for equity evaluation that addresses limitations in current practices by analyzing transportation system outcomes regionally for the full range of demographic groups over time to incorporate the results into performance-based planning processes. This work applied current equity evaluations and a proposed methodology to a case study of the Atlanta, Georgia, metropolitan region. The results illustrate the current methodological limitations and provide an application of the proposed method that shows its ability to address the limitations. The proposed methodology is a comprehensive approach to analyze and characterize transportation system impacts that can be incorporated into performance-based transportation planning at the regional level to improve equity of transportation outcomes.
Telecommuting and Its Impact on Activity–Time Use Patterns of Dual-Earner Households
Authors: Paleti Rajesh , Vukovic Ivana
Published: August 2017

Telecommuting choices of workers in multiworker households are likely to be interdependent. These telecommuting choices may also affect the activity–time use choices of all people in the household. From the standpoint of travel behavior and travel demand forecasting, it is important to test these hypotheses and quantify the relationship between telecommuting choices and activity–time use patterns. To do this, the present study developed a generalized extreme value–based joint count model for analyzing the monthly frequency of choosing to telecommute of workers in dual-earner households. A panel multiple discrete continuous extreme value model was also developed to study activity–time use decisions while accounting for household-level interaction effects. The study findings confirm the presence of strong intrahousehold interaction effects in both the telecommuting and activity–time use choices of workers. Telecommuting choices were found to have a significant influence on daily activity–time use decisions for both mandatory and nonmandatory activities.
In vitro antifungal, anti-oxidant and HPLC analysis of the extracts of Physalis philadelphica
Authors: Khan Wajid , Bakht Jehan , Khan Bilal Muhammad
Published: August 2017

The different parts of Physalis philadelphica were evaluated for the antifungal, anti-oxidant and HPLC assay. The methanol extract of leaf showed inhibitory activity against Pencillium digitatum (58% ZI), Aspergillus flavus (95% ZI) and Rhizopus oryzae (96% ZI) at a concentration of 400 ppm. Strong anti-oxidant activities were found in different parts of the plant. The effects of different extraction solvents on the anti-oxidant activity and antifungal activity of the medicinal extracts were observed. The methanol extract from the leaf, stem, fruit and water fractions from the calyx exhibited strong anti-oxidant activity of 94, 89, 88 and 93% respectively. The ethyl acetate extract was found as a best solvent for the recovery of gallic acid in HPLC assay. No correlation was observed between the gallic acid and anti-oxidant capacity of the extracts.
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Experimental Study of the Operational Parameters on Low-cost Single-basin Solar Still in Jessore, Bangladesh
Authors: Biswasa Biplob Kumar , Halima Md Abdul , Parvina Shahanaz , Mandala Bablu Hira , Rahman Md Wasikur , Alama Md Jahangir , Islamb Kh Md Shafiul
Published: August 2017

Keeping in mind the growing concern of sustainability, the present study aims to develop a hands-on technique for potable water production by using a portable single-basin solar still, which is constructed with low-cost, locally available and lightweight materials. The performance of single-basin solar still were investigated using different essential operational variables, which include weather condition, water salinity, brine water depth, and addition of glass marbles as energy absorbing material. Ambient weather conditions were found to have direct effect on the productivity of the still. The solar still productivity increased by 29% when a layer of glass marbles was used. The study also showed that the daily water production increased with the decrease in the initial depth of brine water. Estimating a useful life of 4 years of the solar still, an average cost of produced potable water was defined to be BDT 0.35 per lit. In addition, some important water quality parameters were tested and compared with drinking water standard values. The obtained values were found to be in line with the drinking water standards of WHO.Journal of Chemical Engineering, Vol. 29, No. 1, 2017: 3-8
Optimization of Biodiesel Production From Bakul Oil
Authors: Ferdous Mohammad Kaniz , Uddin M Rahim , Uddin M Rakib , Khan Maksudur R , Islam MA
Published: August 2017

In this paper, biodiesel production from Bakul oil (Mimusops Elengi) by three-step method and optimization were studied by the application of factorial design. Bakul Oil (BO) was extracted from Bakul seeds by press method and soxhlet extraction method. Bakul seed was collected from the local sources. The raw oil, containing 11.1 wt% Free Fatty Acid (FFA) and viscosity was 76.62 mm2/s. Because of higher FFA content of BO transesterification method cant be applied, so three-step method was conducted for biodiesel production and optimization. In the three-step method, the first step was saponification of the oil followed by acidification to produce FFA and finally esterification of FFA to produce biodiesel. The reaction parameters in saponification, acidification and esterification reaction were optimized. Silica gel was used during esterification reaction to adsorb water produced in the reaction and silica gel to FFA ratio was 1:10 wt/wt. Hence the reaction rate was increased and finally the FFA was reduced to 0.70 wt%. A factorial design was studied for esterification reaction and developed to obtain the higher yield of biodiesel. Finally various properties of biodiesel such as FFA, viscosity, specific gravity, cetane index, pour point, flash point were measured and compared with biodiesel and petro-diesel standard.Journal of Chemical Engineering, Vol. 29, No. 1, 2017: 14-18
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology of Palpable Breast Lumps - Their Cytological Spectrum and Histopathological Correlation
Authors: Akter Shaheen , Islam Md Jahidul , Haque Md Shariful
Published: August 2017

Background: With the advent of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), the approach to diagnosis and management of breast lumps has been revolutionized and it has high sensitivity and specificity.Aim: In this study we analyze the spectrum of FNAC diagnoses in breast lumps and compare the diagnostic accuracy of fine FNAC in differentiating the benign and malignant lesions of breast lumps with histopathological correlation.Materials & Methods: Two years prospective study was conducted in our institution and in that 490 aspirations, including 6 bilateral were performed. Suppurative and inflammatory lesions were excluded from the total aspirates. The cytological diagnosis was classified into 3 groups benign, suspicious and malignant. After this reporting all the available 94 cases were later subjected to mastectomy or open/excision biopsy and followed-up by histopathological confirmation. Later diagnostic accuracy of cytology reporting was compared with that of histopathology.Results: A total of 490 FNAC cases were reported including 373 as benign, 4 as suspicious for carcinoma and 113 as carcinoma. Majorities were premenopausal females and commonest age group was 31-40 years. Among them only 94 cases were followed-up by histopathologic confirmation. In histopathological correlation study, we had accuracy rate of 100% for benign lesion and 92.10% for malignant lesion with false negative rate of 7.90% and false positive rate of zero with fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of palpable breast lump. The overall sensitivity of fine needle aspiration in diagnosing the palpable breast lump is 92.10%, specificity is 100%, positive predictive value is 100% and negative predictive value is 94.91%.Conclusion: FNAC in experienced hands is a very useful tool with very high specificity and rare false positive result. Sensitivity can be further improved with clinical and imaging correlation.KYAMC Journal Vol. 7, No.-2, Jan 2017, Page 780-786
Comparative Study between Primary Closure and T-tube Drainage after Open Choledochotomy
Authors: Asaduzzaman Md , Mia Md Golam Mostofa , Abdullah SM , Islam Md Shofiqul , Hanif Mohammad Abu , Karim SM Rejaul
Published: August 2017

Common Bile Duct (CBD) exploration for choledocholithiasis is usually closed after T-tube insertion. However, complications of T-tube insertion limit its use. In the present study, we wanted to compare outcomes between primary repair of choledochotomy and traditional T-tube insertion. Thirty patients with CBD stones admitted at Tangail Medical College Hospital, Tangail, from January 2010 to December 2015, were included in this study. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: T-tube drainage group and primary closure group. Intraoperative findings and postoperative complications were recorded and analyzed. There was no mortality and retained stones in both groups. Two of 15 patients in the Ttube group and four of 15 patients in primary closure group suffered from minor bile leakage. There was no major bile leakage in the T-tube group but one patient in the primary closure group had major bile leakage, which was treated conservatively without surgical or endoscopic intervention. Wound infection was seen in two patients in the T-tube group and one patient in the primary closure group. In follow up assessment, there was no intra-abdominal collection in both groups. Overall postoperative complications include biliary complications, wound infection and intraabdominal collections, were seen in four patients in the T-tube group and six patients in primary closure group; that was not statistically significant. Primary (Para) closure of CBD after open choledochotomy is feasible and is as safe as T-tube insertion. In effect, primary closure avoids T-tube insertion and disadvantages associated with the use of T-tube. Primary closure can be recommended for selected patients with choledocholithiasis.Medicine Today 2017 Vol.29(1): 15-18
Comparison between Modified Alvardo Score & Pediatric Appendicitis Score in the Early Diagnosis and Management of Acute Appendicitis in Children
Authors: Haque Md Sajedul , Karim Md Shahid
Published: August 2017

Early diagnosis of acute appendicitis in children is a challenge for the pediatric surgeons. The objectives of this study were to compare the accuracy of Modified Alvardo Score (MAS) & Pediatric appendicitis Score (PAS) in the management of acute appendicitis in children, to make early diagnosis & treatment of acute appendicitis and to reduce morbidity of negative appendectomy or delayed appendectomy. It was a comparative prospective study. This study was carried out in Dhaka Shishu (Children) Hospital from January' 2004 to April '2005, a period of 16 months in the department of Pediatric Surgery. During this 16 months period, 106 patients with suspected acute appendicitis were admitted. Among these, 97 patients underwent surgery and 9 patients treated conservatively. Out of 97 patients, 90 specimens were sent for histological examination. Positive histological (Positive appendix) criteria of acute appendicitis required demonstration of acute inflammatory cells infiltration of the appendix wall. Only 85 histological reports were available finally & were included in this study. The sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of MAS are 92.42%, 84.21% & 90.59% respectively. The sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of PAS are 90.91%, 100% & 92.94% respectively. In these two scoring systems, the sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy are high. But in our study, PAS is better than the MAS regarding specificity & diagnostic accuracy.Medicine Today 2017 Vol.29(1): 19-22
Metasurfaces: a new look at Maxwell’s equations and new ways to control light
Authors: Remnev M A , Klimov V V
Published: August 2017

The basic principles of light controling by means of metasurfaces are reviewed. Metasurfaces are able to control the phase, amplitude, polarization, and frequency of radiation propagating through them. The formulation of the generalized Snell’s law is presented. Ways to realize metasurfaces using resonances and the methods of phase shift within 2 π are discussed. An overview of experiments and recent achievements in the field of the light controling by means of the metasurfaces is also presented. Possible applications of metasurfaces and further development of this paradigm are considered, too.
Novel Molecular Targets for Chemoprevention in Malignancies of the Head and Neck
Authors: Bhatia Aarti , Burtness Barbara
Published: August 2017

Cancers of the head and neck region are among the leading causes of cancer-related mortalities worldwide. Oral leukoplakia and erythroplakia are identified as precursor lesions to malignancy. Patients cured of an initial primary head and neck cancer are also susceptible to developing second primary tumors due to cancerization of their mucosal field. Multi-step acquisition of genetic mutations leading to tumorigenesis and development of invasive cancer has been previously described. Recently, whole exome sequencing of tumor specimens has helped to identify driver mutations in this disease. For these reasons, chemoprevention or the use of systemic or biologic agents to prevent carcinogenesis is an attractive concept in head and neck cancers. Nonetheless, despite extensive clinical research in this field over the past couple decades, no standard of care option has emerged. This review article reports on targeted interventions that have been attempted in clinical trials to date, and focuses on novel molecular pathways and drugs in development that are worthy of being tested for this indication as part of future endeavors.
Morphological Computation: Synergy of Body and Brain
Authors: Ghazi-Zahedi Keyan , Langer Carlotta , Ay Nihat
Published: August 2017

There are numerous examples that show how the exploitation of the body’s physical properties can lift the burden of the brain. Examples include grasping, swimming, locomotion, and motion detection. The term Morphological Computation was originally coined to describe processes in the body that would otherwise have to be conducted by the brain. In this paper, we argue for a synergistic perspective, and by that we mean that Morphological Computation is a process which requires a close interaction of body and brain. Based on a model of the sensorimotor loop, we study a new measure of synergistic information and show that it is more reliable in cases in which there is no synergistic information, compared to previous results. Furthermore, we discuss an algorithm that allows the calculation of the measure in non-trivial (non-binary) systems.
Revisiting the Globular Cluster Systems of NGC 3258 and NGC 3268
Authors: Caso Juan , Bassino Lilia
Published: August 2017

We present a photometric study of NGC 3258 and NGC 3268 globular cluster systems (GCSs) with a wider spatial coverage than previous works. This allowed us to determine the extension of both GCSs, and obtain new values for their populations. In both galaxies, we found the presence of radial colour gradients in the peak of the blue globular clusters. The characteristics of both GCSs point to a large evolutionary history with a substantial accretion of satellite galaxies.
Telemonitoring via Self-Report and Video Review in Community Palliative Care: A Case Report
Authors: Morgan Deidre , Swetenham Kate , To Timothy , Currow David , Tieman Jennifer
Published: August 2017

Continuous monitoring and management of a person’s symptoms and performance status are critical for the delivery of effective palliative care. This monitoring occurs routinely in inpatient settings; however, such close evaluation in the community has remained elusive. Patient self-reporting using telehealth offers opportunities to identify symptom escalation and functional decline in real time, and facilitate timely proactive management. We report the case of a 57­year-old man with advanced non-small cell lung cancer who participated in a telehealth trial run by a community palliative care service. This gentleman was able to complete self-reporting of function and symptoms via iPad although at times he was reticent to do so. Self-reporting was perceived as a means to communicate his clinical needs without being a bother to the community palliative care team. He also participated in a videoconference with clinical staff from the community palliative care service and his General Practitioner. Videoconferencing with the nurse and GP was highly valued as an effective way to communicate and also because it eliminated the need for travel. This case report provides important information about the feasibility and acceptability of palliative care telehealth as a way to better manage clinical care in a community setting.
Relationship between Social Support Networks and Physical Functioning in Older Community-Dwelling Mexicans
Authors: Mendoza-Núñez Víctor , González-Mantilla Fabiola , Correa-Muñoz Elsa , Retana-Ugalde Raquel
Published: August 2017

Some studies have demonstrated the relationship between social support networks (SSNs) and health status. In this sense, it has been considered that physical and mental functioning is a key indicator of the health in the age people. The aim of this study was to determine the association between social support networks and physical functioning. A cross-sectional study was carried out including a convenience sample of 150 older community-dwelling Mexicans. We assessed the familial, extra-familial and institutional SSNs; social contacts; the activities of daily living (ADL); the instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs); and physical functioning task (PFT) performance among study participants. Of the 150 older subjects, 53 reported living alone (35%), 113 (75%) reported having few SSNs, and 37 (25%) reported having enough SSNs. Persons with few familial SSNs were at increased odds of demonstrating dependence in at least one of the ADL (OR = 3.25, 95% CI 1.06–9.92, p < 0.05). Likewise, persons with few institutional SSNs and few social contacts were at increased odds of demonstrating dependence in at least one of the IADL (OR = 6.96, 95% CI 1.57–30.7, p < 0.01; OR = 5.02, 95% CI 1.44–17.5, p < 0.01, respectively). We also observed that having few extra-familial SSNs and few social contacts were the main risk factors for PFT dependence, with ORs of 3.70 (95% CI 1.21–11.2, p < 0.05) and 3.85 (95% CI 1.10–13.5, p < 0.05), respectively. Our findings suggest that having few SSNs could be a significant risk factor for reduced physical functioning in older adults.
An Assessment of Spatial Pattern Characterization of Air Pollution: A Case Study of CO and PM2.5 in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Habibi Roya , Alesheikh Ali , Mohammadinia Ali , Sharif Mohammad
Published: August 2017

Statistically clustering air pollution can provide evidence of underlying spatial processes responsible for intensifying the concentration of contaminants. It may also lead to the identification of hotspots. The patterns can then be targeted to manage the concentration level of pollutants. In this regard, employing spatial autocorrelation indices as important tools is inevitable. In this study, general and local indices of Moran’s I and Getis-Ord statistics were assessed in their representation of the structural characteristics of carbon monoxide (CO) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) polluted areas in Tehran, Iran, which is one of the most polluted cities in the world. For this purpose, a grid (200 m × 200 m) was applied across the city, and the inverse distance weighted (IDW) interpolation method was used to allocate a value to each pixel. To compare the methods of detecting clusters meaningfully and quantitatively, the pollution cleanliness index (PCI) was established. The results ascertained a high clustering level of the pollutants in the study area (with 99% confidence level). PM2.5 clusters separated the city into northern and southern parts, as most of the cold spots were situated in the north half and the hotspots were in the south. However, the CO hotspots also covered an area from the northeast to southwest of the city and the cold spots were spread over the rest of the city. The Getis-Ord’s PCI suggested a more polluted air quality than the Moran’s I PCI. The study provides a feasible methodology for urban planners and decision makers to effectively investigate and govern contaminated sites with the aim of reducing the harmful effects of air pollution on public health and the environment.
A Parcel-Level Model for Ranking and Allocating Urban Land-Uses
Authors: Maleki Jamshid , Hakimpour Farshad , Masoumi Zohreh
Published: August 2017

Urban land-use allocation is a complicated problem due to the variety of land-uses, a large number of parcels, and different stakeholders with diverse and conflicting interests. Various approaches and techniques have been proposed for the optimization of urban land-use allocation. The outputs of these approaches are almost optimum plans that suggest a unique, appropriate land-use for every land unit. However, because of some restrictions, such stakeholder opposition to a specific land-use or the high cost of land-use change, it is not possible for planners to propose a desirable land-use for each parcel. As a result, planners have to identify other priorities of the land-uses. Thus, ranking land-uses for parcels along with optimal land-use allocation could be advantageous in urban land-use planning. In this paper, a parcel-level model is presented for ranking and allocating urban land-uses. The proposed model benefits from the capabilities of geographic information systems (GIS), fuzzy calculations, and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods (fuzzy TOPSIS), intends to improve the capabilities of existing urban land-use planning support systems. In this model, as a first step, using fuzzy calculations and spatial analysis capabilities of GIS, quantitative and qualitative evaluation criteria are estimated based on physical characteristics of the parcels and their neighborhoods. In the second step, through the fuzzy TOPSIS method, urban land-uses are ranked for each of the urban land units. In the third step, using the proposed land-use allocation process and genetic algorithm, the efficiency of the model is evaluated in urban land-use optimal allocation. The proposed model is tested on spatial data of region 7, district 1 of Tehran. The implementation results demonstrate that, in the study area, the land-use of 77.2% of the parcels have first priority. As such, the land-use of 22.8% of the parcels do not have first priority, and are prone to change.
CytoCluster: A Cytoscape Plugin for Cluster Analysis and Visualization of Biological Networks
Authors: Li Min , Li Dongyan , Tang Yu , Wu Fangxiang , Wang Jianxin
Published: August 2017

Nowadays, cluster analysis of biological networks has become one of the most important approaches to identifying functional modules as well as predicting protein complexes and network biomarkers. Furthermore, the visualization of clustering results is crucial to display the structure of biological networks. Here we present CytoCluster, a cytoscape plugin integrating six clustering algorithms, HC-PIN (Hierarchical Clustering algorithm in Protein Interaction Networks), OH-PIN (identifying Overlapping and Hierarchical modules in Protein Interaction Networks), IPCA (Identifying Protein Complex Algorithm), ClusterONE (Clustering with Overlapping Neighborhood Expansion), DCU (Detecting Complexes based on Uncertain graph model), IPC-MCE (Identifying Protein Complexes based on Maximal Complex Extension), and BinGO (the Biological networks Gene Ontology) function. Users can select different clustering algorithms according to their requirements. The main function of these six clustering algorithms is to detect protein complexes or functional modules. In addition, BinGO is used to determine which Gene Ontology (GO) categories are statistically overrepresented in a set of genes or a subgraph of a biological network. CytoCluster can be easily expanded, so that more clustering algorithms and functions can be added to this plugin. Since it was created in July 2013, CytoCluster has been downloaded more than 9700 times in the Cytoscape App store and has already been applied to the analysis of different biological networks. CytoCluster is available from http://apps.cytoscape.org/apps/cytocluster.
Kinases Involved in Both Autophagy and Mitosis
Authors: Li Zhiyuan , Zhang Xin
Published: August 2017

Both mitosis and autophagy are highly regulated dynamic cellular processes and involve various phosphorylation events catalysed by kinases, which play vital roles in almost all physiological and pathological conditions. Mitosis is a key event during the cell cycle, in which the cell divides into two daughter cells. Autophagy is a process in which the cell digests its own cellular contents. Although autophagy regulation has mainly been studied in asynchronous cells, increasing evidence indicates that autophagy is in fact tightly regulated in mitosis. Here in this review, we will discuss kinases that were originally identified to be involved in only one of either mitosis or autophagy, but were later found to participate in both processes, such as CDKs (cyclin-dependent kinases), Aurora kinases, PLK-1 (polo-like kinase 1), BUB1 (budding uninhibited by benzimidazoles 1), MAPKs (mitogen-activated protein kinases), mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1), AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), PI3K (phosphoinositide-3 kinase) and protein kinase B (AKT). By focusing on kinases involved in both autophagy and mitosis, we will get a more comprehensive understanding about the reciprocal regulation between the two key cellular events, which will also shed light on their related therapeutic investigations.
A Single-Use, Self-Powered, Paper-Based Sensor Patch for Detection of Exercise-Induced Hypoglycemia
Authors: Cho Eunyoung , Mohammadifar Maedeh , Choi Seokheun
Published: August 2017

We report a paper-based self-powered sensor patch for prevention and management of exercise-induced hypoglycemia. The article describes the fabrication, in vitro, and in vivo characterization of the sensor for glucose monitoring in human sweat. This wearable, non-invasive, single-use biosensor integrates a vertically stacked, paper-based glucose/oxygen enzymatic fuel cell into a standard Band-Aid adhesive patch. The paper-based device attaches directly to skin, wicks sweat by using capillary forces to a reservoir where chemical energy is converted to electrical energy, and monitors glucose without external power and sophisticated readout instruments. The device utilizes (1) a 3-D paper-based fuel cell configuration, (2) an electrically conducting microfluidic reservoir for a high anode surface area and efficient mass transfer, and (3) a direct electron transfer between glucose oxidase and anodes for enhanced electron discharge properties. The developed sensor shows a high linearity of current at 0.02–1.0 mg/mL glucose centration (R2 = 0.989) with a high sensitivity of 1.35 µA/mM.
Voltammetric Study of Some 3-Aryl-quinoxaline-2-carbonitrile 1,4-di-N-oxide Derivatives with Anti-Tumor Activities
Authors: Miller Eric , Xia Qing , Cella Mariah , Nenninger Austin , Mruzik Monica , Brillos-Monia Krystina , Hu Yong , Sheng Rong , Ragain Christina , Crawford Philip
Published: August 2017

The electrochemical properties of twenty 3-aryl-quinoxaline-2-carbonitrile 1,4-di-N-oxide derivatives with varying degrees of cytotoxic activity were investigated in dimethylformamide (DMF) using cyclic voltammetry and first derivative cyclic voltammetry. With one exception, the first reduction of these compounds was found to be reversible or quasireversible and is attributed to reduction of the N-oxide moiety to form a radical anion. The second reduction of the diazine ring was found to be irreversible. Compounds containing a nitro group on the 3-phenyl ring also exhibited a reduction process that may be attributed to that group. There was good correlation between molecular structure and reduction potential, with reduction being facilitated by an enhanced net positive charge at the electroactive site created by electron withdrawing substituents. Additionally, the reduction potential was calculated using two common basis sets, 6-31g and lanl2dz, for five of the test molecules. There was a strong correlation between the computational data and the experimental data, with the exception of the derivative containing the nitro functionality. No relationship between the experimentally measured reduction potentials and reported cytotoxic activities was evident upon comparison of the data.
Solution NMR Studies of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Proteins for Antibiotic Target Discovery
Authors: Kim Do-Hee , Kang Sung-Min , Lee Bong-Jin
Published: August 2017

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which triggers severe pulmonary diseases. Recently, multidrug/extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis strains have emerged and continue to threaten global health. Because of the development of drug-resistant tuberculosis, there is an urgent need for novel antibiotics to treat these drug-resistant bacteria. In light of the clinical importance of M. tuberculosis, 2067 structures of M. tuberculsosis proteins have been determined. Among them, 52 structures have been solved and studied using solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The functional details based on structural analysis of M. tuberculosis using NMR can provide essential biochemical data for the development of novel antibiotic drugs. In this review, we introduce diverse structural and biochemical studies on M. tuberculosis proteins determined using NMR spectroscopy.
Collecting Evidence to Inform Salt Reduction Policies in Argentina: Identifying Sources of Sodium Intake in Adults from a Population-Based Sample
Authors: Elorriaga Natalia , Gutierrez Laura , Romero Iris , Moyano Daniela , Poggio Rosana , Calandrelli Matías , Mores Nora , Rubinstein Adolfo , Irazola Vilma
Published: August 2017

The maximum content of sodium in selected processed foods (PF) in Argentina was limited by a law enacted in 2013. Data about intake of these and other foods are necessary for policy planning, implementation, evaluation, and monitoring. We examined data from the CESCAS I population-based cohort study to assess the main dietary sources among PF and frequency of discretionary salt use by sex, age, and education attainment, before full implementation of the regulations in 2015. We used a validated 34-item FFQ (Food Frequency Questionnaire) to assess PF intake and discretional salt use. Among 2127 adults in two Argentinean cities, aged 35–76 years, mean salt intake from selected PFs was 4.7 g/day, higher among male and low education subgroups. Categories of foods with regulated maximum limits provided near half of the sodium intake from PFs. Use of salt (always/often) at the table and during cooking was reported by 9% and 73% of the population, respectively, with higher proportions among young people. Reducing salt consumption to the target of 5 g/day may require adjustments to the current regulation (reducing targets, including other food categories), as well as reinforcing strategies such as education campaigns, labeling, and voluntary agreement with bakeries.
Wax Confinement with Carbon Nanotubes for Phase Changing Epoxy Blends
Authors: Fredi Giulia , Dorigato Andrea , Fambri Luca , Pegoretti Alessandro
Published: August 2017

A paraffin wax was shape stabilized with 10 wt % of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and dispersed in various concentrations in an epoxy resin to develop a novel blend with thermal energy storage capabilities. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that CNTs improve the thermal stability of paraffin, while differential scanning calorimetry showed that the paraffin kept its ability to melt and crystallize, with enthalpy values almost proportional to the paraffin fraction. In contrast, a noticeable loss of enthalpy was observed for epoxy/wax blends without CNTs, which was mainly attributed to the partial exudation of paraffin out of the epoxy matrix during the curing phase. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis contributed to elucidate the effects of the melting of the paraffin phase on the viscoelastic properties of the epoxy blends. Flexural elastic modulus and strength of the blends decreased with the wax/CNT content according to a rule of mixtures, while flexural strain at break values deviate positively from it. These results show the potentialities of the investigated epoxy blends for the development of multifunctional structural composites.
Preparation and Flame Retardance of Polyurethane Composites Containing Microencapsulated Melamine Polyphosphate
Authors: Liu Shang-Hao , Kuan Chen-Feng , Kuan Hsu-Chiang , Shen Ming-Yuan , Yang Jia-Ming , Chiang Chin-Lung
Published: August 2017

A new microencapsulated flame retardant containing melamine polyphosphate (MPP) and 4,4′-oxydianiline-formaldehyde (OF) resin as the core and shell materials, respectively, was synthesized by in situ polymerization. 29Si NMR was used to measure the condensation density of polyurethane containing silicon compound (Si-PU). The structures and properties of the microencapsulated melamine polyphosphate (OFMPP) were characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and water solubility. Thermal behavior of the OFMPP was systematically analyzed through thermogravimetric analysis. Flame retardance tests such as the limiting oxygen index and UL-94 were employed to evaluate the effect of composition variation on the MPP and OFMPP in polyurethane composites. The results indicated that the microencapsulation of MPP with the OF resin improved hydrophobicity and that the flame retardance of the Si-PU/OFMPP composite (limiting oxygen index, LOI = 32%) was higher than that of the Si-PU/MPP composite (LOI = 27%) at the same additive loading (30 wt %).