bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Insula and Its Epilepsies
Authors: Jobst Barbara C. , Gonzalez-Martinez Jorge , Isnard Jean , Kahane Philippe , Lacuey Nuria , Lahtoo Samden D. , Nguyen Dang K. , Wu Chengyuan , Lado Fred
Published: February 2019

Insular seizures are great mimickers of seizures originating elsewhere in the brain. The insula is a highly connected brain structure. Seizures may only become clinically evident after ictal activity propagates out of the insula with semiology that reflects the propagation pattern. Insular seizures with perisylvian spread, for example, manifest first as throat constriction, followed next by perioral and hemisensory symptoms, and then by unilateral motor symptoms. On the other hand, insular seizures may spread instead to the temporal and frontal lobes and present like seizures originating from these regions. Due to the location of the insula deep in the brain, interictal and ictal scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) changes can be variable and misleading. Magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, magnetoencephalography, positron emission tomography, and single-photon computed tomography imaging may assist in establishing a diagnosis of insular epilepsy. Intracranial EEG recordings from within the insula, using stereo-EEG or depth electrode techniques, can prove insular seizure origin. Seizure onset, most commonly seen as low-voltage, fast gamma activity, however, can be highly localized and easily missed if the insula is only sparsely sampled. Moreover, seizure spread to the contralateral insula and other brain regions may occur rapidly. Extensive sampling of the insula with multiple electrode trajectories is necessary to avoid these pitfalls. Understanding the functional organization of the insula is helpful when interpreting the semiology produced by insular seizures. Electrical stimulation mapping around the central sulcus of the insula results in paresthesias, while stimulation of the posterior insula typically produces painful sensations. Visceral sensations are the next most common result of insular stimulation. Treatment of insular epilepsy is evolving, but poses challenges. Surgical resections of the insula are effective but risk significant morbidity if not carefully planned. Neurostimulation is an emerging option for treatment, especially for seizures with onset in the posterior insula. The close association of the insula with marked autonomic changes has led to interest in the role of the insula in sudden unexpected death in epilepsy and warrants additional study with larger patient cohorts.
The diagnostic dilemma of a pregnant woman presenting with an isolated sixth nerve palsy: A case report
Authors: Rengaraj Nithya , Keepanasseril Anish , Dorairajan Gowri , Subbaiah Murali , Nair Pradeep P , Barathi Deepak
Published: February 2019

Pregnant women presenting with isolated cranial palsies are uncommon. Isolated sixth nerve (abducens nerve) palsy can occur for a variety of reasons and neuroimaging is often performed to identify an underlying cause. We report a case of a woman in her third pregnancy with preeclampsia who presented with an isolated sixth nerve palsy. The diagnosis of aseptic cavernous sinus thrombosis was made and she subsequently made a full recovery.
Learning to eat intuitively: A qualitative exploration of the experience of mid-age women
Authors: Barraclough Emma Louise , Hay-Smith E Jean C , Boucher Sara E , Tylka Tracy Lynn , Horwath Caroline Christine
Published: February 2019

Qualitative studies examining women’s experiences of learning to eat more intuitively are scarce. We aimed to explore the experience of learning intuitive eating among mid-age women ( n = 11) who participated in a web-based intuitive eating programme. Motivation to learn intuitive eating, perceptions of the experience of attempting to eat more intuitively, and facilitators and barriers to intuitive eating were explored using inductive thematic analysis. Findings suggest that women were able to learn to eat more intuitively; however, they encountered social and environmental barriers, and the ‘unconditional permission to eat’ aspect of intuitive eating was experienced as the most challenging.
Targeted advertisement of chlamydia screening on social media: A mixed-methods analysis
Authors: Nadarzynski Tom , Burton Jack , Henderson Kimberley , Zimmerman Deborah , Hill Orla , Graham Cynthia
Published: February 2019

Objective

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in teenagers and young adults. This study used a mixed-methods analysis to investigate targeted promotion of chlamydia home-testing on social media.

Methods

Our first study, in which face-to-face interviews with young women were conducted, sought to explore their attitudes and preferences towards social media-based health promotion. Our second study used Facebook and Google analytics to examine visits to a chlamydia testing page (where chlamydia testing kits could be ordered online), both before and after a targeted Facebook-based health promotion campaign was conducted.

Results

The interviews revealed Facebook to be the preferred choice of social media, with participants perceiving it to be a powerful and far-reaching platform for social interaction. Participants also highlighted several aspects of promotional content to be important at increasing engagement with the target population, including appropriate use of colour, level of interactivity, use of humour and anonymity. The website analysis showed a 277% increase in the direct entrance on the chlamydia testing kit page and a 41% increase in chlamydia test kit orders, in comparison with the baseline period prior to the intervention.

Conclusions

The findings support social media as an engaging medium for the online promotion of chlamydia self-testing and implicate Facebook advertising as a useful tool in addition to community-based chlamydia screening services. Future research needs to identify whether targeted social media-based health promotion could lead to higher chlamydia diagnosis rate in comparison to traditional communication channels.
The Sociocultural Factors Underlying Latina Mothers’ Infant Feeding Practices
Authors: Cheney Ann M. , Nieri Tanya , Davis Elizabeth , Prologo Joe , Valencia Esmirna , Anderson Ashaunta T. , Widaman Keith , Reaves Christina , Sullivan Greer
Published: February 2019

In this study, we examined the sociocultural factors underlying infant feeding practices. We conducted four focus groups with 19 Latina mothers of children 0 to 2 years of age enrolled in Early Head Start programs in the United States over a 1-year period. We found these mothers considered both science- and family-based feeding recommendations. However, advice from family was often inconsistent with science- and nutrition-based recommended feeding practices. In the interest of showing respect and preserving harmonious relationships, some mothers accepted family advice instead of recommended practices while others employed strategies to follow recommended practices without offending. Nutrition educators need to consider the intersection of macro, organizational, and community factors with micro-level processes in shaping the implementation of recommended feeding practices within family systems. Nutrition interventions for Latino families should capitalize on Latina mothers’ strategies for navigating multiple information sources while preserving cultural values and family relationships.
Membranous nephropathy and cancer in the era of PLA2R testing
Authors: Khairallah Pascale , Bomback Andrew
Published: February 2019

Membranous nephropathy has historically been associated with a higher risk of malignancy compared to the general population. Following a membranous nephropathy diagnosis, physicians screen patients for underlying cancers at the time of and up to several years following the diagnosis. The discovery of phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) as a major antigen in primary membranous nephropathy may be changing how we think about the association between membranous nephropathy and cancer. PLA2R was found to be present in 72% of cases of idiopathic membranous nephropathy with very few PLA2R patients having cancer. Following PLA2R discovery, thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A) was discovered. This antigen, in contrast to PLA2R, may be more strongly associated with cancer. This review will evaluate the associations between these antigens and cancer, as well as propose an algorithm on cancer screening in the era of antibody testing.
Efficacy of Biosimilars in Psoriasis
Authors: Tyutyunik Michael , Kimmel Grace
Published: February 2019

Biologic therapies have revolutionized the treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis, and several biologic agents are currently available to patients. However, the high cost associated with these drugs contributes to the underutilization of biologics and the resultant undertreatment of disease. In recent years, biosimilars have been developed for several of the commonly used biologic agents, with reported similar efficacy and safety profiles to the original agents. They are also somewhat less costly than the original biologic agents that they are similar to. Despite this, many dermatologists are still skeptical of biosimilars for a variety of reasons. It is important for dermatologists to familiarize themselves with the emerging safety and efficacy data for the biosimilar agents, so as to provide patients with safe, efficacious, and potentially affordable treatment options as biosimilars become available over the next several years. In this article, we set out to review available data regarding biosimilar medications in the treatment of psoriasis. A literature review was performed utilizing the PubMed database. The results of these studies indicate that biosimilars have a high degree of similarity regarding safety and efficacy when compared to their originator biologics for the treatment of psoriasis.
Invariant phenotype and molecular association of biallelic TET2 mutant myeloid neoplasia
Authors: Awada Hassan , Nagata Yasunobu , Goyal Abhinav , Asad Mohammad F. , Patel Bhumika , Hirsch Cassandra M. , Kuzmanovic Teodora , Guan Yihong , Przychodzen Bartlomiej P. , Aly Mai , Adema Vera , Shen Wenyi , Williams Louis , Nazha Aziz , Abazeed Mohamed E. , Sekeres Mikkael A. , Radivoyevitch Tomas , Haferlach Torsten , Jha Babal K. , Visconte Valeria , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P.
Published: February 2019

Somatic TET2 mutations (TET2MT) are frequent in myeloid neoplasia (MN), particularly chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). TET2MT includes mostly loss-of-function/hypomorphic hits. Impaired TET2 activity skews differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells toward proliferating myeloid precursors. This study was prompted by the observation of frequent biallelic TET2 gene inactivations (biTET2i) in CMML. We speculated that biTET2i might be associated with distinct clinicohematological features. We analyzed TET2MT in 1045 patients with MN. Of 82 biTET2i cases, 66 were biTET2MT, 13 were hemizygous TET2MT, and 3 were homozygous TET2MT (uniparental disomy); the remaining patients (denoted biTET2− hereafter) were either monoallelic TET2MT (n = 96) or wild-type TET2 (n = 823). Truncation mutations were found in 83% of biTET2i vs 65% of biTET2− cases (P = .02). TET2 hits were founder lesions in 72% of biTET2i vs 38% of biTET2− cases (P < .0001). In biTET2i, significantly concurrent hits included SRSF2MT (33%; P < .0001) and KRAS/NRASMT (16%; P = .03) as compared with biTET2−. When the first TET2 hit was ancestral in biTET2i, the most common subsequent hits affected a second TET2MT, followed by SRSF2MT, ASXL1MT, RASMT, and DNMT3AMT. BiTET2i patients without any monocytosis showed an absence of SRSF2MT. BiTET2i patients were older and had monocytosis, CMML, normal karyotypes, and lower-risk disease compared with biTET2− patients. Hence, while a second TET2 hit occurred frequently, biTET2i did not portend faster progression but rather determined monocytic differentiation, consistent with its prevalence in CMML. Additionally, biTET2i showed lower odds of cytopenias and marrow blasts (≥5%) and higher odds of myeloid dysplasia and marrow hypercellularity. Thus, biTET2i might represent an auxiliary assessment tool in MN.
Pharmacological treatment of asthma in a cohort of adults during a 20-year period: results from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey I, II and III
Authors: Janson Christer , Accordini Simone , Cazzoletti Lucia , Cerveri Isa , Chanoine Sebastien , Corsico Angelo , Ferreira Diogenes Seraphim , Garcia-Aymerich Judith , Gislason David , Nielsen Rune , Johannessen Ane , Jogi Rain , Malinovschi Andrei , Martinez-Moratalla Rovira Jesús , Marcon Alessandro , Pin Isabelle , Quint Jennifer , Siroux Valerie , Almar Enrique , Bellisario Valeria , Franklin Karl A. , Gullón José A. , Holm Mathias , Heinrich Joachim , Nowak Dennis , Sánchez-Ramos José Luis , Weyler Joost J. , Jarvis Deborah
Published: February 2019

Asthma often remains uncontrolled, despite the fact that the pharmacological treatment has undergone large changes. We studied changes in the treatment of asthma over a 20-year period and identified factors associated with the regular use of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) treatment.

Changes in the use of medication were determined in 4617 randomly selected subjects, while changes in adults with persistent asthma were analysed in 369 participants. The study compares data from three surveys in 24 centres in 11 countries.

The use of ICSs increased from 1.7% to 5.9% in the general population and the regular use of ICSs increased from 19% to 34% among persistent asthmatic subjects. The proportion of asthmatic subjects reporting asthma attacks in the last 12 months decreased, while the proportion that had seen a doctor in the last 12 months remained unchanged (42%). Subjects with asthma who had experienced attacks or had seen a doctor were more likely to use ICSs on a regular basis.

Although ICS use has increased, only one-third of subjects with persistent asthma take ICSs on a regular basis. Less than half had seen a doctor during the last year. This indicates that underuse of ICSs and lack of regular healthcare contacts remains a problem in the management of asthma.
A cadaveric and sonographic study of the morphology of the tibialis anterior tendon – a proposal for a new classification
Authors: Olewnik Łukasz , Podgórski Michał , Polguj Michał , Topol Mirosław
Published: February 2019

Background

The tibialis anterior tendon (TAT) presents little morphological variation. The tibialis anterior muscle originates at the lateral condyle of the tibia, the proximal one‐third to two‐thirds of the lateral surface of the tibia shaft, and the anterior surface of the interosseous membrane and inserts to the medial cuneiform bone and first metatarsal. The aim of our work is to classify types of TAT insertion by two complimentary methods ‐ anatomical dissection and ultrasound examination.

Methods

In the first part, classical anatomical dissection was performed on 100 lower limbs (50 right, 50 left) fixed in 10% formalin solution. The morphology of the insertion of the tendon was evaluated and the muscle was subjected to the appropriate morphometric measurements. In the second part, the morphology of the TAT insertion was evaluated in 50 volunteers with ultrasound.

Results

The tibialis anterior muscle was present in all specimens. In the cadavers, five types of insertion were observed, the most common being Type V: a single band attaching to the medial cuneiform bone (32%). In the sonographic part, Type IV was not observed; however, an additional insertion type was recognised (Type VI), which was characterized by two identical bands attached only to the medial cuneiform bone. The most common type identified by ultrasound was Type II (35%).

Conclusion

The tibialis anterior tendon presents high morphological variability that can be observed both in cadavers and in vivo by ultrasound examination.

Level of evidence

II Prospective Comparative Study
Identifying Troublesome Jargon in Biology: Discrepancies between Student Performance and Perceived Understanding
Authors: Zukswert Jenna M. , Barker Megan K. , McDonnell Lisa
Published: February 2019

The excessive “jargon” load in biology may be a hurdle for developing conceptual understanding as well as achieving core competencies such as scientific literacy and communication. Little work has been done to characterize student understanding of biology-­specific jargon. To address this issue, we aimed to determine the types of biology jargon terms that students struggle with most, the alignment between students’ perceived understanding and performance defining the terms, and common errors in student-provided definitions. Students in two biology classes were asked to report their understanding of, and provide definitions for, course-specific vocabulary terms: 1276 student responses to 72 terms were analyzed. Generally, students showed an overestimation of their own understanding. The least accurate self-assessment occurred for terms to which students had substantial prior exposure and terms with discordant meanings in biology versus everyday language. Students were more accurate when assessing their understanding of terms describing abstract molecular structures, and these were often perceived as more difficult than other types of terms. This research provides insights about which types of technical vocabulary may create a barrier to developing deeper conceptual understanding, and highlights a need to consider student understanding of different types of jargon in supporting learning and scientific literacy.
3D mapping of kinematic attributes in anisotropic media
Authors: Ivanov Yuriy , Stovas Alexey
Published: February 2019

Based on the rotation of a slowness surface in anisotropic media, we have derived a set of mapping operators that establishes a point-to-point correspondence for the traveltime and relative-geometric-spreading surfaces between these calculated in nonrotated and rotated media. The mapping approach allows one to efficiently obtain the aforementioned surfaces in a rotated anisotropic medium from precomputed surfaces in the nonrotated medium. The process consists of two steps: calculation of a necessary kinematic attribute in a nonrotated, e.g., orthorhombic (ORT), medium, and subsequent mapping of the obtained values to a transformed, e.g., rotated ORT, medium. The operators we obtained are applicable to anisotropic media of any type; they are 3D and are expressed through a general form of the transformation matrix. The mapping equations can be used to develop moveout and relative-geometric-spreading approximations in rotated anisotropic media from existing approximations in nonrotated media. Although our operators are derived in case of a homogeneous medium and for a one-way propagation only, we discuss their extension to vertically heterogeneous media and to reflected (and converted) waves.
Mechanisms of Osteoblastic Bone Metastasis in Prostate Cancer: Role of Prostatic Acid Phosphatase
Authors: Quiroz-Munoz Mariana , Izadmehr Sudeh , Arumugam Dushyanthy , Wong Beatrice , Kirschenbaum Alexander , Levine Alice C
Published: February 2019

Prostate cancer (PCa) preferentially metastasizes to bone, leading to complications including severe pain, fractures, spinal cord compression, bone marrow suppression, and a mortality of ∼70%. In spite of recent advances in chemo-, hormonal, and radiation therapies, bone-metastatic, castrate-resistant PCa is incurable. PCa is somewhat unique among the solid tumors in its tendency to produce osteoblastic lesions composed of hypermineralized bone with multiple layers of poorly organized type I collagen fibrils that have reduced mechanical strength. Many of the signaling pathways that control normal bone homeostasis are at play in pathologic PCa bone metastases, including the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB/receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand/osteoprotegerin system. A number of PCa-derived soluble factors have been shown to induce the dysfunctional osteoblastic phenotype. However, therapies directed at these osteoblastic-stimulating proteins have yielded disappointing clinical results to date. One of the soluble factors expressed by PCa cells, particularly in bone metastases, is prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP). Human PAP is a prostate epithelium-specific secretory protein that was the first tumor marker ever described. Biologically, PAP exhibits both phosphatase activity and ecto-5′-nucleotidase activity, generating extracellular phosphate and adenosine as the final products. Accumulating evidence indicates that PAP plays a causal role in the osteoblastic phenotype and aberrant bone mineralization seen in bone-metastatic, castrate-resistant PCa. Targeting PAP may represent a therapeutic approach to improve morbidity and mortality from PCa osteoblastic bone metastases.
Knowledge of public patient involvement among health economists in Ireland: a baseline audit
Authors: O'Shea Eamon , Ogbebor Florence , Queally Michelle , Murphy Edel
Published: February 2019

Background: While there is growing public and patient involvement (PPI) in health research in Ireland, there is little information on the extent to which PPI has permeated the field of health economics research. The aim of this scoping study is to explore the knowledge and use of PPI among health economists in Ireland.

Methods: This paper is based on a survey questionnaire administered electronically to all members of Health Economics Association of Ireland (HEAI). The study provides a baseline audit on the knowledge and use of PPI in health economics research.  A review of the international literature on the interface between PPI and health economics informed the design of the questions used in the survey.

Results: Half of respondents incorporate PPI in their health economics research.  Two thirds report their knowledge of PPI as weak or fair; only 8% say it is excellent. PPI, when it occurs, is largely focused on the identification of research priorities and appropriate outcomes. Just over one third of respondents currently evaluate their PPI activities in health economic research; there is almost no focus on impact as part of the evaluation process.

Conclusion: Health economists in Ireland do not have a strong knowledge of PPI, either in practice or in theory. They find PPI challenging due to limited time, resources, information and the absence of appropriate skills to engage patients and the public in their work. Education and training are needed to support greater use of PPI in health economics research.
Multicultural Education in Schools of Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)
Authors: Чудиновских Александр , Chudinovskih Aleksandr
Published: February 2019

The article presents a theoretical analysis of the scientifi c literature, regulatory documents and mass media materials in the fi eld of the implementation of multicultural education in schools of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The article considers globalization as a kind of starting point, after which changes occur in the educational sphere of our country, namely the emergence of multicultural education in Russian schools as a new concept and direction. The beginning of the development of multicultural education in Russia is determined. At the regional level, the country specifi c characteristics of the republic as a multinational subject of the Russian Federation are given. The main stages of the formation and development of multicultural education in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) are highlighted. This study presents practical examples of the implementation of multicultural education in schools of the republic. The article describes the main state programs, projects at the regional and school levels.
Digital School: Am I Learning or Being Taught?
Authors: Ганеев А. , Ganeev A. , Власенко В. , Vlasenko V.
Published: February 2019

Turning to reality the new goals set by the federal state educational standards requires using means (methods or instruments) adequate to the relevant anticipations by the teacher as well as the active assimilation and inclusion of the new educational technologies into his/her professional activities and implementation of activity-based models for arranging the teaching and learning process. The article addresses the transformation of the modern educational process and the role of digitalization in achieving the educational results in line with the modern society’s requirements.
SPECIFIC ROLE OF PROFESSIONAL CONTESTS IN THE VOCATIONAL EDUCATION SYSTEM
Authors: Соловьева Светлана , Solovyeva Svetlana
Published: February 2019

This article reveals the role of professional skills competitions in the system of secondary vocational education. The importance of professional competitions is shown as a tool for raising the competence and competitiveness of graduates.
A Logic-Based Benders Approach to Home Healthcare Delivery
Authors: Heching Aliza , Hooker J. N. , Kimura Ryo
Published: February 2019

We propose an exact optimization method for home healthcare delivery that relies on logic-based Benders decomposition (LBBD). The objective is to match patients with healthcare aides and schedule multiple home visits over a given time horizon, to maximize the number of patients served while taking into account patient requirements, travel time, and scheduling constraints. Unlike classical Benders methods, LBBD allows us to exploit a natural decomposition of the problem into a master problem, solved by mixed integer programming, and a subproblem that decouples into small scheduling problems, solved by constraint programming. We report computational results based on data obtained from a major home hospice care provider. We find that LBBD is far superior to mixed integer programming on all but a few instances with narrow time windows. It solves problems of realistic size to optimality if the aim is to conduct staff planning on a rolling basis, without temporal dependencies between visits. We also find that a version of LBBD known as branch and check usually outperforms standard LBBD on the instances tested.
Inter-rater reliability of the radiographic assessment of simple bone cysts
Authors: Cho S. , Yankanah R. , Babyn P. , Stimec J. , Doria A. S. , Stephens D. , Wright J. G.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

To develop and evaluate the reliability of an explicit set of parameters and criteria for simple bone cysts (SBCs) and evaluate the reliability of single versus serial chronological reading methods

Methods

Radiographic criteria were developed based on the literature and expert consensus. A single anteroposterior/lateral radiograph from 32 subjects with SBC were evaluated by three radiologists. A second reading was then conducted using revised criteria including a visual schematic. In the third reading the same images were assessed but radiologists had access to images from two additional time points. Inter-rater reliability was assessed after each reading using kappa (κ) and percentage agreement for categorical and binary parameters and intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) for continuous parameters.

Results

Parameters that were revised with more explicit definitions including the visual schematic demonstrated consistent or improved inter-rater reliability with the exception of continuous cortical rim present and cyst location in the metaphysis and mid-diaphysis. Cortical rim displayed only slight reliability throughout (κ= -0.008 to 0.16). All other categorical parameters had a percentage agreement above 0.8 or a moderate (κ= 0.41 to 0.60), substantial (κ = 0.61 to 0.80) or almost perfect inter-rater reliability (κ = 0.81 to 1.0) in at least one reading. All continuous parameters demonstrated excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC > 0.75) in at least one reading with the exception of scalloping (ICC = 0.37 to 0.70). Inter-rater reliability values did not indicate an obviously superior method of assessment between single and serial chronological readings.

Conclusion

Explicit criteria for SBC parameters used in their assessment demonstrated improved and substantial inter-rater reliability. Inter-rater reliability did not differ between single and serial chronological readings.

Level of Evidence

Not Applicable
Study of Intermolecular Interactions between 2-Chloroaniline Isomeric Butanol Complexes in Gas Phase by Using DFT, NBO, QTAIM and RDG Analysis
Authors: Sekhar M.Chandra , Wakgari Dereje , Kenie Dunkana Negussa , Reddy K. Chandrasekhar
Published: February 2019

Density functional theoretical (DFT) studies on intermolecular hydrogen bond interactions between self and cross-associated molecular complexes of 2-chloroaniline and isomeric butanols (e.g., 2-methyl-2-propanol, 2-methyl-1-propanol, 2-butanol and1-butanol) have been analyzed in gas phase. Thirteen 2-chloroaniline isomeric butanol complexes are analyzed at B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level regarding their geometries, bond characteristics and interaction energies. The second-order perturbation stabilization energy has been calculated by natural bond orbitals analysis. Barder's quantum theory of atoms in molecules are employed to elucidate electron density (ρ) as well as its Laplacian (∇2ρ) of the complexes. Further to evaluate the strong and weak interactions between the selected molecular complexes non-covalent interactions plots we used the reduced gradient method.
Adsorption of Congo Red (Acid Red 28) Azodye on Biosynthesized Copper Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Batool Madiha , Qureshi Muhammad Zahid , Hashmi Farwa , Mehboob Nida , Daoush Walid M.
Published: February 2019

A green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles and its removal efficiency of azodye were studied. Biosynthesis of stable copper oxide nanoparticles were preformed using Aloe barbadensis leaf extract as a size and shape-directing agent for preparing of spherical copper oxide nanoparticles by calcination at 400 °C. The leaf extract of Aloe barbadensis was prepared in deionized water. The produced copper particles were calcined at 400 °C to produce copper oxide nanoparticles. The characterization of copper oxide nanoparticles was performed by XRD, SEM, FTIR, UV spectroscopy. The XRD analysis showed that the average particle size was between 5-30 nm. The shape of the copper oxide nanoparticles was spherical and cubic. EDX of the synthesized nanoparticles showed the composition consists of 68 % copper. The UV-visible spectrum analysis confirms an absorption peak at 200-400 nm of the produced CuO nanoparticles. The FTIR analysis of the copper oxide particles indicate the presence of the organometallic Cu-O bond between Cu and O. The obtained copper oxide was used as a removing agent of Congo red dye. The effect of variables like concentration, time, pH, adsorbent dosage were studied. It was observed from the results that the maximum dye removal occurs at pH of 4, the concentration of nanoparticles was 1 mg/L and the maximum time for dye removal was 120 min. The Langmuir isotherm model was calculated to study the adsorption efficiency of the Congo red dye on the produced copper oxide nanoparticles. The kinetics of pseudo second order is followed by adsorption. The calculated sum of square was 0.012 and r2 = 0.98. it was observed that the model fit the best and straight line with r2 value of 0.991 and probability value of 1.6E-5. The nanoparticles remove 70 % of the Congo red dye from its solution. This showed that the copper oxide nanoparticles has efficient capacity of azodye degradation.
Development and Validation of Stability Indicating RP-HPLC Assay Method for Mefenamic Acid
Authors: Fernandes Adison , Pai P.N. Sanjay
Published: February 2019

The present research work was carried out to evaluate the stability behaviour of mefenamic acid under ICH Q1A (R2) recommended stress conditions. The drug was subjected to hydrolytic, oxidative, photolytic and thermal stress conditions. The drug was found susceptible to degradation under oxidative stress condition but was stable under hydrolytic, photolytic and thermal stress conditions. A total two degradation products were formed, which were separated using HPLC. The chromatographic separation was carried out on Sunfire ODS C-18 (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column. Optimum resolution was obtained using ammonium dihydrogen phosphate buffer (10 mM, pH 4) and acetonitrile programmed in isocratic elution mode in the ratio of 45:55 v/v at 225 nm using photodiode array detector at a flow rate of 1 mL/min. The designed method was validated as per ICH Q2 (R1) guidelines. The response of drug was linear in the concentration range of 10-100 μg/mL (R2 = 0.9998). The method was found specific, precise and accurate. The mean accuracy was found to be 100.46 %. The developed method was successfully applied for the analysis of marketed formulation.
DFT and Molecular Docking Study of 2-[2-(4-Chlorophenylaminothiazol-5-yl]benzothiazole
Authors: Femila Nirmal N.S. , Fen Reji T.F. Abbs
Published: February 2019

The title compound was computed by means of DFT chemical quantum calculations to obtain optimized molecular geometry, harmonic vibrational frequencies and atomic charges. Vibrational bands to the various structural groups and their importance were predicted by analyzing the vibrational spectra. The data showed that B3LYP method provide satisfactory data for assigning vibrational frequencies and structural properties.The HOMO and LUMO energies calculated permit the determination of atomic and molecular parameters and they also represented the transfer of charge in the molecule. Mulliken atomic charge analysis was also done. A comprehensive molecular picture of 2-[2-(4-chlorophenylaminothiazol-5-yl]benzothiazole and its interactions were got from NBO investigations. The molecular docking study indicates that benzothiazole derivative may possess inhibitory activity against BCL2 pancreatic cancer cell lines.
Oxidative Stress Status in Sera and Saliva of Type 2 Diabetic Iraqi Patients with and without Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Hasan Hathama Razooki , A. Aburahma Nuha Nihad , A. AL-Kazaz Abdul Kareem
Published: February 2019

The present study aimed to look for the differences in the oxidative stress status in sera and saliva samples of type 2 diabetic Iraqi patients with and without proliferative diabetic retinopathy. As well as to look for the possibility whether this status can be measured in saliva as an alternative sample to that of serum, hence to achieve that total oxidant status, total antioxidant status and oxidative stress index were measured in both sera and saliva samples of two groups of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and the healthy individuals. Upon the comparison between patients without proliferative diabetic retinopathy and the control sample the results showed presence of a significant increase (p < 0.05) of total oxidant status and oxidative stress index in sera and saliva samples, while there was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in total antioxidant status of sera and saliva samples. Meanwhile when the comparison was done between patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy and those without proliferative diabetic retinopathy, a significant increase (p < 0.05) in both salivary total oxidant status and oxidative stress index was observed with a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in sera and salivary total antioxidant status were found in the proliferative diabetic retinopathy patients group.
Here Comes the Sun(Fish): Conservation and Restorage of an Extraordinary Natural History Specimen
Authors: Allington-Jones Lu , McKibbin Chelsea
Published: February 2019

A 19th-century dried and stuffed type sunfish at the Natural History Museum in London (UK) was collapsing under its own weight and was in poor physical condition. The effort to stabilize and rehouse the specimen by removing the stuffing and restoring the skin is described here. The thickness and rigidity of the skin, as well as mechanical equipment failure during treatment, presented challenges during the restoration project. Although the aesthetics are still suboptimal, the integrity of this scientifically important specimen was maintained. Furthermore, the specimen has been stabilized on a combination internal and external frame system and is now far more maneuverable.
Краевая задача для смешанно-составного уравнения с дробной производной, функциональным запаздыванием и опережением
Authors: Зарубин Александр Николаевич , Zarubin Alexandr Nikolaevich , Чаплыгина Елена Викторовна , Chaplygina Elena Viktorovna
Published: February 2019

Аннотация (тест 1 RU)

Аннотация (тест 3 RU)

Abstract (Test 3 EN)
Editorial Volume 10, Issue 1
Authors: Rodrigues Paulo Cesar Chagas
Published: February 2019

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Pert using Fuzzy variables and probability distribution function randomly selected
Authors: Rodriguez Rene A. Santa Cruz
Published: February 2019

Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) is widely used for project management in real world applications. The aim of this paper is to simulate and analyze a PERT network under conditions of uncertainty though a hybrid model. The basic assumption is that a project under extreme conditions of uncertainty can be satisfactorily modelled by using simple fuzzy linguistic variables to estimate activities durations, and a probability distribution function randomly selected in order to measure the activity times. Fuzzy linguistic expressions are used to estimate the activity time. Activity parameters are calculated by using basic operations between triangular fuzzy numbers and centroid method with classical Beta PERT definition. For each activity time a probability distribution function is randomly selected from a set of four possible distributions commonly cited in the literature. Hypothetical projects with 4, 40, 400 and 4000 activities using the proposed model are analyzed; the project duration is estimated through Monte Carlo Simulation. Finally, results are analyzed and compared with classical Beta PERT technique.
Applicability of chloroplast DNA barcodes for wood identification between Santalum album and its adulterants
Authors: Jiao Lichao , He Tuo , Dormontt Eleanor E. , Zhang Yonggang , Lowe Andrew J. , Yin Yafang
Published: February 2019

The East Indian sandalwood, Santalum album L., is known for its fragrant heartwood and extractive oils. The increasing demand for the valuable sandalwood products has led to illegal and excessive logging, and there are other Santalum species in the commercial market as substitutes (adulterants). Improved tools for the identification of Santalum species are needed to control this situation. In this study, four chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) regions were screened (matK, psbA-trnH, trnK and trnL) on 35 vouchered specimens covering five Santalum species, i.e. Santalum acuminatum, S. album, Santalum lanceolatum, Santalum murrayanum and Santalum spicatum. The goal of this study was to test the species discrimination ability by means of both the TaxonDNA and neighbor-joining (NJ) methods. The results indicate that the combination of psbA-trnH+trnK gave the best performance for discrimination (100%) of the studied Santalum species concerning the discrimination ability and recovery rate. Meanwhile, six unvouchered wood specimens were retrieved and accurately identified at the species level based on the recommended DNA barcodes. The DNA barcode method is now ready for application in the monitoring of the trade of this valuable resource, and provides an effective approach for wood species identification and product authentication.
Crystal structure of (E)-2-(4-cyanophenyl)ethenesulfonyl fluoride, C9H6FNO2S
Authors: Brasil Edikarlos , Samipillai Marivel , Govender Thavendran , Kruger Hendrik G. , Naicker Tricia
Published: February 2019

C9H6FNO2S, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 7.2786(2) Å, b = 8.1014(3) Å, c = 16.1084(5) Å, α = 76.320(1)°, β = 87.918(1)°, γ = 80.784(1)°, V = 911.00(5) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0298, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0857, T = 100(2) K.
Crystal structure of (E)-N-((2S,3S,4R,10R,13S, 17S)-17-(1-(dimethylamino) ethyl)-2,4-dihydroxy-10,13-dimethylhexadecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-yl)-2-methylbut-2-enamide, C24H48N2O3
Authors: Wu Qi-Yun , Wu Ji-Chun , Huo Shao-Jie , He Xi-Chen , Du Jiang
Published: February 2019

C24H48N2O3, monoclinic, P21 (no. 4), a = 14.805(3) Å, b = 10.0557(18) Å, c = 18.061(3) Å, β = 98.935(5)°, V = 2656.3(8) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0674, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1955, T = 173 K.
Inverting weak random operators
Authors: Gutierrez-Pavón Jonathan , Pacheco Carlos G.
Published: February 2019

We analyze two weak random operators, initially motivated from processes in random environment.
At first glance, these operators are ill-defined, but using bilinear forms, one can deal with them in a rigorous way.
This point of view can be found, for instance, in
[A. V. Skorohod,
Random Linear Operators,
Math. Appl. (Sov. Ser.),
D. Reidel Publishing, Dordrecht, 1984],
and it remarkably helps to carry out specific calculations.
In this paper, we find explicitly the inverse of such weak operators by providing the closed forms of the so-called Green kernel.
We show how this approach helps to analyze the spectra of the operators.
In addition, we provide the existence of strong operators associated to our bilinear forms.
Important tools that we use are the Sturm–Liouville theory and the stochastic calculus.
BSDEs with right upper-semicontinuous reflecting obstacle and stochastic Lipschitz coefficient
Authors: Marzougue Mohamed , El Otmani Mohamed
Published: February 2019

This paper proves the existence and uniqueness of a solution to reflected backward stochastic differential equations with a lower obstacle, which is assumed to be right upper-semicontinuous. The result is established where the coefficient is stochastic Lipschitz by using some tools from the general theory of processes such as Mertens decomposition of optional strong supermartingales and other tools from optimal stopping theory.
Mesoscopic Model on Frost Resistance of Marine Concrete Subjected to Chloride Ion
Authors: Li Ben , Wang Zhongrui , Zhang Yuxin , Liu Hongbo , Liu Xiaozhou , Shen Weiguo , Wang Liangliang , Li Xing
Published: February 2019

The properties of concrete subjected to freeze–thaw cycles in water, 10.5 g/L and 21.0 g/L Nacl solution, were investigated in this article. Based on the experimental results, the dynamic elastic modulus and compressive strength of concrete were measured during different numbers of freeze–thaw cycles. Then, the characterizations of the pore structure of concrete were analyzed on the basis of a mercury intrusion experiment. A mesoscopic model was presented based on the changes of pore structures for calculating the influence of chloride on the frost resistance of concrete. The results show that the contents of NaCl solution have a significant influence on the pore structure, compressive strength, and dynamic elastic modulus of concrete subjected to freeze–thaw cycles. The new mesoscopic model can help compensate for the lack of research on the effect of chloride diffusion on freeze–thaw cycles.
Becoming, in Hindsight
Authors: Taylor Karissa
Published: February 2019

As a queer disabled woman, vulnerability is a familiar feeling. It is excruciating to be seen with such clarity, mostly by those who do not share your lived experience. After suffering emotional trauma in my early 20s, the past four years have been a conscious investment in experiencing vulnerability to learn, adapt, grow, and heal. I recount the most significant experiences here, creating a fractured chronological narrative weave, whilst providing commentary in hindsight as my present self. The process of becoming is made visible through instances of incidental and purposeful vulnerability. This essay aims to share my story with others as an act of feminist resistance to silence and intimate partner violence. This is a true story that continues to unfurl mindfully, vulnerably, and with deep respect for process and time. Embracing that which makes you vulnerable also makes you formidably powerful with the capacity for infinite compassion.
Is This What Revolution Looks Like?
Authors: Jackson Ronald L.
Published: February 2019

This brief manuscript offers commentary about the Opening Session of the 2017 National Communication Association annual convention.
A Story Is Not a Thing (but It Does Have a Life)
Authors: Harris Anne M.
Published: February 2019

This essay creatively evidences the materiality of a story and its ability to migrate and evolve. It does so by critiquing the non-human limitations of binary onto-epistemologies, especially visual/discursive ones. Here stories and words have lives, bodies, and agency and as such they matter, but that matter is not material. The mattering of stories is not contingent upon human telling or hearing. Stories linger where humans disappear. An ecomaterialist reading suggests we might productively decouple storytelling (stories about us) from storied matter (stories with autonomy).
Foki kihe tupu'anga
Authors: Fa'avae David
Published: February 2019

Today I find myself back in the homeland, in the physical, back where my ancestors once walked and talked. In this essay, I unfold stories of migration to highlight the fluid and dynamic nature of such processes evidently shaped by our vā/va’/veitapui, that is, the relations with/within/between people and place(s). I utilize the Tongan approach talaloto, an intimate and sacred practice, to share and interpret my thoughts and feelings about what inspired and empowered me to return to Tonga. Talaloto allows me to reflect on and interpret the histories and struggles that have been meaningful in my journey.
Genomic Resources forGoniozus legneri,Aleochara bilineataandPaykullia maculata, Representing Three Independent Origins of the Parasitoid Lifestyle in Insects
Authors: Kraaijeveld Ken , Neleman Peter , Mariën Janine , de Meijer Emile , Ellers Jacintha
Published: February 2019

Parasitoid insects are important model systems for a multitude of biological research topics and widely used as biological control agents against insect pests. While the parasitoid lifestyle has evolved numerous times in different insect groups, research has focused almost exclusively on Hymenoptera from the Parasitica clade. The genomes of several members of this group have been sequenced, but no genomic resources are available from any of the other, independent evolutionary origins of the parasitoid lifestyle. Our aim here was to develop genomic resources for three parasitoid insects outside the Parasitica. We present draft genome assemblies for Goniozus legneri, a parasitoid Hymenopteran more closely related to the non-parasitoid wasps and bees than to the Parasitica wasps, the Coleopteran parasitoid Aleochara bilineata and the Dipteran parasitoid Paykullia maculata. The genome assemblies are fragmented, but complete in terms of gene content. We also provide preliminary structural annotations. We anticipate that these genomic resources will be valuable for testing the generality of findings obtained from Parasitica wasps in future comparative studies.
El sector filantrópico: ¿Nueva frontera para financiar investigación e innovación agrícola, forestal y ambiental?
Authors: Mateo Nicolás
Published: February 2019

La riqueza y la desigualdad continúan aumentando en todo el mundo, y aunque la última representa un desafío muy serio, la primera ofrece oportunidades para atender disparidades sociales y económicas que merecen ser analizadas. El sector filantrópico, como cualquier otro, muestra limitaciones y problemas, pero también ha brindado resultados e impactos significativos en áreas tan relevantes como educación, salud, pobreza, agricultura y ambiente, por citar algunos. Los datos, la experiencia y los resultados –considerados en este documento –señalan que un marco apropiado con reglas claras para el sector filantrópico podría resultar en programas e iniciativas de interés nacional. En este marco, la principal conclusión es que a Costa Rica le conviene desarrollar un sólido marco conceptual y operativo que estimule e incentive la actividad filantrópica. Se cuenta ya con diagnósticos y línea de base a partir de las cuales pueden desarrollarse los pasos siguientes.