bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The identity of Osteobrama cotio, and the status of “Osteobrama serrata” (Teleostei: Cyprinidae: Cyprininae)
Authors: RAHMAN MD. MIZANUR , NORÉN MICHAEL , MOLLAH ABDUR ROB , KULLANDER SVEN
Published: October 2018

Osteobrama cotio is considered to be a widespread species in India and Bangladesh. Mitochondrial DNA (COI, 16S rRNA) shows that populations from the Meghna River, Karnafuli and Sangu Rivers, Narmada River, and Godavari River are genetically distinct from each other. No morphological differences were found to separate Meghna and Karnafuli+Sangu populations, however. A putative new species, “Osteobrama serrata” has been described from the Barak River basin, stated to be distinguished from O. cotio by the presence of a serrated third dorsal-fin ray. The description of “O. serrata” does not fulfil requirements of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, (International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature 1999) and the name is thus unavailable. Published DNA sequences of “Osteobrama serrata” are identical to sequences of O. cotio from Bangladesh. As mentioned already in the original description, O. cotio has a serrated third dorsal-fin ray.
A new species of Cephaloecetes (Bubocorophiina) from the Iranian coasts of the Gulf of Oman and the Hormuz Strait (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Siphonoecetini)
Authors: MOMTAZI FARZANEH , MAGHSOUDLOU ABDOLVAHAB , JUST JEAN
Published: October 2018

The first member of Cephaloecetes in the north-western part of the Indian Ocean, Cephaloecetes ungulatus sp. nov., is described from Chabahar Bay, the Gulf of Oman and Qeshm Island in the western Hormuz Strait, Iran. The new species is characterized from the other two species of genus Cephaloecetes by a unique claw-shaped ventral plate on antenna 2 article 2.
A field evaluation of a rapid dual immunoassay for human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis antibodies, Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Withers Keenan , Bristow Clare , Nguyen Minh , Stafylis Chrysovalantis , Giang Le M , Klausner Jeffrey D
Published: October 2018

The SD BIOLINE HIV/Syphilis Duo (SD BIOLINE DUO) rapid test is a dual rapid lateral flow immunoassay that detects antibodies to both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Treponema pallidum (TP) ‘syphilis’ via fingerprick whole blood. We evaluated the field performance of the SD BIOLINE HIV/Syphilis Duo test among two populations in Hanoi, Vietnam – men who have sex with men (MSM) and pregnant women. We also surveyed factors that influence participants’ willingness to test for HIV and syphilis. This test has the potential to increase HIV and syphilis screening in low-resource settings. Patients who received healthcare services at a sexual health clinic for MSM and a district antenatal care center in Hanoi, Vietnam were recruited for the study. Participants with HIV and syphilis were intentionally recruited for adequate test performance evaluation via convenience sampling. At each facility, venipuncture blood specimens were obtained for reference testing for HIV and TP using SD BIOLINE HIV 1/2 3.0 and TP particle agglutination, respectively. SD BIOLINE DUO was compared to the standard reference tests and sensitivity and specificity were calculated. We calculated 95% confidence interval (CI) using the exact binomial method. We used conjoint analysis to identify test attributes that are associated with participant likelihood to seek HIV and syphilis testing. Of 280 participants, 100 (35.7%) were MSM and 180 (64.3%) were pregnant women. Of MSM, 17 (17.0%) were HIV positive and 49 (49.0%) were TP seropositive. All women were negative for both HIV and syphilis antibodies. For HIV antibody testing, sensitivity and specificity were 100.0% (95% CI: 80.5–100.0%) and 100.0% (95% CI: 98.6–100.0%), respectively. For the syphilis antibody testing, sensitivity and specificity were 83.1% (95% CI: 71.0–91.6%) and 100.0% (95% CI: 98.3–100.0%), respectively. Potential for false positives, preference for one blood draw over two, and shorter wait time for testing results were the highest ranked attributes by participants according to their willingness to test. The SD BIOLINE HIV/Syphilis Duo rapid test demonstrated very good performance in this field setting and participants preferred attributes that aligned well with this test.
Physiological markers and multimorbidity
Authors: Ferreira Gustavo Dias , Simões José Augusto , Senaratna Chamara , Pati Sanghamitra , Timm Pierre Fernando , Batista Sandro Rodrigues , Nunes Bruno Pereira
Published: October 2018

Background:

Multimorbidity is the co-occurrence of two or more diseases in the same individual. One method to identify this condition at an early stage is the use of specific markers for various combinations of morbidities. Nonetheless, evidence related to physiological markers in multimorbidity is limited.

Objective:

The aim was to perform a systematic review to identify physiological markers associated with multimorbidity.

Design:

Articles available on PubMed, Register of Controlled Trials, Academic Search Premier, CINAHL, Scopus, SocINDEX, Web of Science, LILACS, and SciELO, from their inception to May 2018, were systematically searched and reviewed. The project was registered in PROSPERO under the number CRD42017055522.

Results:

The systematic search identified 922 papers. After evaluation, 18 articles were included in the full review reporting at least one physiological marker in coexisting diseases or which are strongly associated with the presence of multimorbidity in the future. Only five of these studies examined multimorbidity in general, identifying five physiological markers associated with multimorbidity, namely, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), interleukin 6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), lipoprotein (Lp), and cystatin C (Cyst-C).

Conclusions:

There is a paucity of studies related to physiological markers in multimorbidity. DHEAS, IL-6, CRP, Lp, and Cyst-C could be the initial focus for further investigation of physiological markers related to multimorbidity.
Selinexor plus low-dose bortezomib and dexamethasone for patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Bahlis Nizar J. , Sutherland Heather , White Darrell , Sebag Michael , Lentzsch Suzanne , Kotb Rami , Venner Christopher P. , Gasparetto Cristina , Del Col Aldo , Neri Paola , Reece Donna , Kauffman Michael , Shacham Sharon , Unger T. J. , Jeha Jacqueline , Saint-Martin Jean-Richard , Shah Jatin , Chen Christine
Published: October 2018

Selinexor is an oral inhibitor of the nuclear export protein exportin 1. Preclinical studies demonstrated synergistic antimyeloma activity between selinexor and proteasome inhibitors (PI) through suppression of NF-κB signaling and nuclear retention of tumor suppressor proteins. We tested selinexor in combination with low-dose bortezomib and dexamethasone (SVd) for the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (MM). The primary objectives of this study were to determine the safety profile, overall response rate (ORR), and a recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of SVd. We enrolled 42 patients to receive selinexor (60, 80, or 100 mg orally) plus bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2 subcutaneously) and dexamethasone (20 mg orally) once or twice weekly in 21- or 35-day cycles. Patients had a median of 3 (range 1-11) prior lines of therapy, and 50% were refractory to a PI. Treatment-related grade 3 or 4 adverse events reported in ≥10% of patients were thrombocytopenia (45%), neutropenia (24%), fatigue (14%), and anemia (12%). Incidence (4 patients, 10%) and grade (≤2) of peripheral neuropathy were low. The ORR for the entire population was 63%: 84% ORR for PI nonrefractory and 43% for PI-refractory patients. The median progression-free survival for all patients was 9.0 months; 17.8 months for PI nonrefractory, and 6.1 months for PI refractory. SVd treatment produced high response rates in patients with relapsed or refractory MM, including borezomib-refractory MM, with no unexpected side effects. The RP2D is selinexor (100 mg once weekly), bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2 once weekly for 4 weeks), and dexamethasone (40 mg once weekly) per 35-day cycle. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02343042.
Implementing emicizumab in hemophilia inhibitor management: emicizumab should be prescribed after tolerance
Authors: Young Guy
Published: October 2018

This article has a companion Counterpoint by Le Quellec and Negrier.
Emicizumab should be prescribed independent of immune tolerance induction
Authors: Le Quellec Sandra , Negrier Claude
Published: October 2018

This article has a companion Point by Young.
Interactions between corticosterone phenotype, environmental stressor pervasiveness and irruptive movement-related survival
Authors: Jessop Tim S. , Webb Jonathan , Dempster Tim , Feit Benjamin , Letnic Mike
Published: October 2018

Animals use irruptive movement to avoid exposure to stochastic and pervasive environmental stressors that impact fitness. Beneficial irruptive movements transfer individuals from high-stress areas (conferring low fitness) to alternate localities that may improve survival or reproduction. However, being stochastic, environmental stressors can limit an animal's preparatory capacity to enhance irruptive movement performance. Thus individuals must rely on standing, or rapidly induced, physiological and behavioural responses. Rapid elevation of glucocorticoid hormones in response to environmental stressors are widely implicated in adjusting physiological and behaviour processes that could influence irruptive movement capacity. However, there remains little direct evidence to demonstrate that corticosterone regulated movement performance, nor the interaction with the pervasiveness of environmental stress, confers adaptive movement outcomes. Here we compared how movement-related survival of cane toads (Rhinella marina) varied with three different experimental corticosterone phenotypes across four increments of increasing environmental stressor pervasiveness (i.e. distance from water in a semi-arid landscape). Our results indicated that toads with phenotypically increased corticosterone levels attained higher movement-related survival compared to individuals with control or lowered corticosterone phenotypes. However, the effects of corticosterone phenotypes on movement-related survival to some extent co-varied with stressor pervasiveness. Thus our study demonstrates how the interplay among an individual's corticosterone phenotype and movement capacity alongside the arising costs of movement and the pervasiveness of the environmental stressor can affect survival outcomes.
Scaling of claw sharpness: mechanical constraints reduce attachment performance in larger insects
Authors: Pattrick Jonathan G. , Labonte David , Federle Walter
Published: October 2018

Claws are the most widespread attachment devices in animals, but comparatively little is known about the mechanics of claw attachment. A key morphological parameter in determining attachment ability is claw sharpness; however, there is a conflict between sharpness and fracture resistance. Sharper claws can interlock on more surfaces but are more likely to break. Body size interacts with this conflict such that larger animals should have much blunter claws and consequently poorer attachment ability than smaller animals. This expected size-induced reduction in attachment performance has not previously been investigated, and it is unclear how animals deal with this effect, and if it indeed exists. We explored the scaling of claw sharpness with body size using four insect species (Nauphoeta cinerea, Gromphadorhina portentosa, Atta cephalotes and Carausius morosus) each covering a large size range. The scaling of claw sharpness varied significantly between species, suggesting that they face different pressures regarding claw function. Attachment forces were measured for A. cephalotes and G. portentosa (which had different scaling of claw sharpness) on several rough surfaces using a centrifuge setup. As expected, attachment performance was poorer in larger animals. Firstly, larger animals were more likely to slip, though this effect depended on the scaling of claw sharpness. Secondly, when they gripped, they attached with smaller forces relative to their weight. This size-induced reduction in attachment performance has significant implications for the attachment ability of larger animals on rough surfaces.
Measurement and modelling of primary sex ratios for species with temperature-dependent sex determination
Authors: Massey Melanie D. , Holt Sarah M. , Brooks Ronald J. , Rollinson Njal
Published: October 2018

For many oviparous animals, incubation temperature influences sex through temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). Although climate change may skew sex ratios in species with TSD, few available methods predict sex under natural conditions, fewer still are based on mechanistic hypotheses of development, and field tests of existing methods are rare. We propose a new approach that calculates the probability of masculinization (PM) in natural nests. This approach subsumes the mechanistic hypotheses describing the outcome of TSD, by integrating embryonic development with the temperature-sex reaction norm. Further, we modify a commonly used method of sex ratio estimation, the Constant Temperature Equivalent (CTE), to provide quantitative estimates of sex ratios. We test our new approaches using snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina). We experimentally manipulate nests in the field, and find that the PM method is better supported than the modified CTE, explaining 69% of the variation in sex ratios across 27 semi-natural nests. Next, we use the PM method to predict variation in sex ratios across 14 natural nests over two years, explaining 67% of the variation. We suggest that the PM approach is effective and broadly-applicable to species with TSD, particularly for forecasting how sex ratios may respond to climate change. Interestingly, we also found that the modified CTE explained up to 64% of variation in sex ratios in a Type II TSD species, suggesting our modifications will be useful for future research. Finally, our data suggest that the Algonquin Park population of snapping turtles possesses resilience to biased sex ratios under climate change.
Effect of Substituents on TiO2 Photocatalytic Oxidation of trans-Stilbenes
Authors: Miyake Teruyuki , Hashimoto Yuichiro , Jinnai Seihou , Oketani Ryusei , Higashida Suguru
Published: October 2018

Photocatalytic reaction of trans-stilbene on TiO2 particles produces benzaldehyde with high selectivity in acetonitrile-water mixed solvent. Introduction of electron-donating substituents to the benzene rings accelerated the reaction. On the other hand, the rate was decelerated by electron-withdrawing substituents. These results suggest that the reaction proceeds by hydroperoxo or hydroperoxy, which were formed on TiO2 surface by UV irradiation, rather than free OH radicals.
Lipödem – Mythen und Fakten Teil 1
Authors: Erbacher G. , Bertsch T.
Published: October 2018

Das Lipödem ist weit mehr als einfach nur dickere und schmerzhafte Beine! Die Erkrankung Lipödem ist mit zahlreichen Mythen behaftet. Im ersten Teil dieser Übersicht werfen wir einen kritischen Blick auf zwei populäre Statements zum Lipödem; Statements, die vor Jahrzehnten schon Eingang in wissenschaftliche Publikationen gefunden haben und seither unkritisch und stetig wiederholt werden; Statements, die inzwischen zum selbstverständlichen Wissensallgemeingut von Lipödempatientinnen und vor allem auch von Lipödem-Selbsthilfegruppen geworden sind. In unserer Darstellung über die Mythen des Lipödems fokussieren wir uns in diesem Beitrag vor allem auf zwei Aspekte, die aufs Engste mit dem Lipödem verbunden sind: auf die Adipositas sowie auf die psychische Situation von Lipödempatientinnen – die wiederum eng mit der Adipositas in Zusammenhang steht. Dabei überprüfen wir zwei häufig publizierte Statements auf wissenschaftliche Evidenz: 1. „Das Lipödem ist eine progrediente Erkrankung”, 2. „Ein Lipödem macht psychisch krank”. Beide Statements widersprechen in hohem Maße unserer seit Jahren bestehenden täglichen klinischen Erfahrung mit diesem speziellen Patientengut. Gleichzeitig haben wir im Rahmen unserer umfangreichen Literaturrecherche festgestellt, dass es auch keine Evidenz für diese in den „Lipödemsprachgebrauch” eingegangenen Behauptungen gibt. Tatsachlich ist das Lipödem in der Regel keine progrediente Erkrankung! Vielmehr liegt bei Lipödempatientinnen häufig eine Gewichtsprogredienz (meist eine Adipositasprogredienz) vor, in deren Folge sich auch das Lipödem verschlechtern kann. Unsere Pilotstudie zum 2. Statement macht deutlich, dass in der Regel nicht das Lipödem Ursache von psychischen Erkrankungen ist. Hier weisen unsere Ergebnisse in die umgekehrte Richtung: Eine – vorbestehende – psychische Vulnerabilität kann ganz wesentlich zum Krankheitsbild Lipödem beitragen. Um das Lipödem in seiner ganzen Komplexität und Vielfalt zu erfassen, braucht es mehr als nur Medizin. Psychosoziale Therapieansätze sollten integraler Bestandteil eines wirksamen multimodalen Behandlungskonzepts sein. Neben den beiden dargestellten Mythen gibt es weitere, die sich um das Lipödem ranken. Diese werden in weiteren Ausgaben dieser Zeitschrift diskutiert werden.
Auszug aus der S1-Leitlinie Intermittierende pneumatische Kompression (IPK, AIK)
Authors: Schwahn-Schreiber C. , Reich-Schupke S.
Published: October 2018

Die Intermittierende pneumatische Kompressionstherapie (IPK, AIK) besteht in der prophylaktischen und therapeutischen Anwen-dung von pneumatischen Wechseldrücken zur Thromboembolieprophylaxe, Entstauungstherapie bei Ödemerkrankungen, Verbesserung der arteriellen und venösen Durchblutung mit Reduktion der klinischen Symptome sowie zur Förderung der Wundheilung. Die Therapie kann sowohl stationär als auch ambulant in einer medizinischen Einrichtung oder – nach entsprechender Schulung – als Heimtherapie angewendet werden. Die Geräte bestehen aus Generator und Manschetten und unterscheiden sich abhängig von ihrer Indikation und der Ziellokalisation im Aufbau sowie in den technischen Parametern der Therapie. Bei richtiger Indikationsstellung und Anwendung handelt es sich um eine effektive und sichere Therapiemethode. Unerwünschte Ereignisse treten extrem selten auf. Es besteht ein dringender Bedarf an methodisch gut gemachten Studien zur IPK in verschiedenen Indikationen (Ausnahme VTE-Prophylaxe, gute Evidenz). In den Protokollen sollten zwingend genaue Angaben zum verwendeten Gerät (Kompression und Manschette) sowie zum Behandlungsprotokoll (Inflation, Deflation, Plateau, Pausenzeiten, Behandlungsfrequenz pro Tag oder Woche sowie zur Gesamtdauer der Anwendung) gemacht werden.
Managing invasive species
Authors: Tobin Patrick C
Published: October 2018

Invasive species pose considerable harm to native ecosystems and biodiversity and frustrate and at times fascinate the invasive species management and scientific communities. Of the numerous non-native species established around the world, only a minority of them are invasive and noxious, whereas the majority are either benign or in fact beneficial. Agriculture in North America, for example, would look dramatically different if only native plants were grown as food crops and without the services of the European honey bee as a pollinator. Yet the minority of species that are invasive negatively alter ecosystems and reduce the services they provide, costing governments, industries, and private citizens billions of dollars annually. In this review, I briefly review the consequences of invasive species and the importance of remaining vigilant in the battle against them. I then focus on their management in an increasingly connected global community.
Price Uncertainty and Market Power in Retail Gasoline: The Case of an Italian Highway
Authors: Rossi Federico , Chintagunta Pradeep K.
Published: October 2018

We quantify the effect of consumers’ price uncertainty on gasoline prices and margins on an Italian highway. We observe the change in prices triggered by a longitudinal policy-based change in consumers’ price information from one in which drivers on the highway have no information on the prices of stations they encounter to one that allows consumers to observe the prices of four upcoming stations on a single price sign by the side of the highway. Using these data, we estimate a model of consumer search and purchase behavior and a corresponding model of gas station pricing. We then measure the impact of varying degrees of price information on equilibrium prices, including (i) no price information, (ii) the current policy, and (iii) full price information. We also compare the current policy with an alternative policy in which stations’ prices are advertised with individual price signs. We find that when consumers do not have price information, gas stations are able to charge 31% more, in terms of higher price-cost margins, than when prices are known. Our welfare analysis suggests that price information is worth €0.57 to consumers every time they take the highway. Relative to the current mandatory policy, advertising price on individual signs is worth €0.19 more to consumers.

The e-companion is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mksc.2018.1105 .
Organophosphate poisoning and coenzyme Q10: an overview
Authors: Mantle David , Hargreaves Iain P
Published: October 2018

Organophosphate (OP) poisoning can occur in acute and chronic forms. In developing countries, both forms are common, and represent a major cause of morbidity and mortality. In the UK, organophosphate poisoning is most likely to be encountered in chronic form, with sheep farmers the section of the population at greatest risk. The problem of poisoning in sheep farmers caused by exposure to organophosphate-based sheep dips has become increasingly apparent. Symptoms include fatigue, muscle pain and neurological problems. There is no specific treatment for this condition. OP toxicity is classically associated with inhibition of acetylcholinesterase enzymes involved in the process of neurotransmission. However, there is evidence that OP poisoning can also cause mitochondrial dysfunction, compromised cellular energy supply, oxidative stress and inflammation. Symptoms of sheep dip poisoning correspond with those known to result from depletion of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a vitamin-like substance with a key role in cellular energy generation within mitochondria, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action. The authors have therefore reviewed evidence that oral supplementation with CoQ10 may provide effective symptomatic relief for farmers suffering from OP sheep dip poisoning. Evidence in support of the above is presented for: (a) OP-induced mitochondrial dysfunction; (b) beneficial effects of CoQ10 administration following OP exposure in relevant animal models; and (c) evidence from clinical studies in human subjects. The dosage of CoQ10 proposed (100 mg three times daily) is based on that required to raise blood levels to at least 3 μg/mL, which has been shown to be a requirement to effectively counter CoQ10 depletion in other disorders, particularly heart disease. It is important to note that a CoQ10 supplement with appropriate documented bioavailability should be used, since poor bioavailability may have been responsible for the failure of some previous studies. The safety of CoQ10 supplementation has been confirmed in more than 200 randomised controlled clinical trial studies on a wide range of disorders. In addition to the above, because of the increased risk of the use of OP compounds in terrorist-type poisoning incidents in the UK, a brief discussion on the management of acute OP poisoning is included.
New Modified Method for Determination of Nitric Oxide Synthase Activity in Plasma of Vitiligo Patients
Authors: Abdulmohsin Zainulabdeen Jwan , Abdulsattar Al-kinani Aymen
Published: October 2018

Vitiligo is a non-contagious skin disorder that characterized by depigmentation of skin due to melanocyte impairment which may be caused to increase levels of free radicals (such as superoxide and nitric oxide) that causing an increase in oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was measured by the activity of oxide synthase (NOS) by our modified method and nitric oxide concentration in plasma of vitiligo patients. The activity of nitric oxide synthase was determined via a modified method by coupling two methods; the first method was based on converting L-arginine to L-citrulline and nitric oxide and the second was used to measure the concentration of nitric oxide. This modified method was applied to patients with vitiligo disease and healthy individuals who matched in age and gender with patients. The condition of this modified method was optimized and the results revealed the following: the activity of NOS was higher in a solution that contains: Tris buffer (50mM), arginine (100mM), calcium chloride (20mM), and NADPH (5mM) during 30 minutes, meanwhile the precision of this method was 2.03. In the current study, the results show that the levels of NOS activity and nitric oxide were affected by the disease in which both parameters appeared highly significant increases in vitiligo patients (p=0.000 and 0.002 respectively) in comparison with the healthy individuals. Results of the experiments proved that it is possible to depend on the modified method to measure the activity of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Also, the increased levels of NOS activity and nitric oxide concentration in vitiligo patients support the autocytotoxic hypothesis which suggests that oxidative stress may have a role in melanocyte impairment.
Investigation on Al Doped Zno Thin Films and its N-Alzno/P-Si Junction Diodes Via Dip Coating and JNSP Techniques
Authors: Kalidass S. , Thirunavukkarasu P. , Balaji M. , Chandrasekaran J.
Published: October 2018

From this investigation, we find out that the dip coating and jet nebulizer spray pyrolysis (JNSP) techniques are the suitable to fabricate aluminum doped zinc oxide (AlZnO) thin films and the P-N junction diode of n-AlZnO/p-Si at 450°C. Several characterization techniques are used to measure the consequences of Al doping (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 wt.%) on structural, optical, electrical and diode properties of ZnO. We recorded that the films were polycrystalline with a hexagonal structure of ZnO by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The disparities of the sub-micro sized rod-like structures are observed from the scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. The energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis proved that the elements of Al, Zn and O were presented in the film. The absorbance and band gap energy (Eg) values were ascertained from the ultraviolet visible (UV-vis) analysis. By the current-voltage (I-V) characterization, the maximum conductivity value is detected for 1.5 wt.% of Al doped ZnO film. The I-V measurement for finding the diode parameters of ideality factor (n) and barrier height (Fb) in dark and under light was taken.
The Influence of Fertilizer on Nitrate, Nitrite and Vitamin C Contents in Vegetables
Authors: Cintya Henni , Silalahi Jansen , Lux Putra Effendy De , Siburian Rikson
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of fertilization on nitrate, nitrite, and vitamin C contents in vegetables. All seedlings (mustard, bokchoy, spinach, and lettuce) were grown in the greenhouse in polybags with organic and inorganic fertilizers. Nitrite was derivitized with sulfanilic acid and N-(1-naphthyl) ethylenediamine dihydrochloride in acetic acid solution, then absorbance measured by spectrophotometer at 540 nm. Nitrate reduced to nitrite by adding zincum powder in acidic condition, then determined as nitrite. Vitamin C was titrated with 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol.The study show that the influence of organic fertilizers increased nitrate, nitrite and vitamin C contents with increasing doses. Inorganic fertilizers was found to be more influential to increase nitrite and nitrate contents, but decreased vitamin C with increasing doses.This findings suggest that inorganic fertilizers more effective to increase nitrate and nitrite contents compared to organic fertilizers. Organic fertilization increased vitamin C, but inorganic fertilization decreased.
Infrared Spectroscopic and Scanning Electron Microscopy Study of Ibuprofen Loading onto the Molecular Sieve Mesoporous Silica SBA-15 Material
Authors: Ulfa Maria , Prasetyoko Didik
Published: October 2018

The SBA-15 was studied for the first time for ibuprofen loading as anti inflamantory molecule model. The SBA-15 was synthesized from Pluronic P123 as the structure-directing agent and TEOS as the silica source. The framework capacity and structural change of the SBA-15 was investigated by varying the amount loading of ibuprofen inflamantory molecule. The structural properties of the synthesized samples after laoding treatment was analyzed by FTIR, SEM and EDX. The decreasing intensity of the SBA-15 as increasing ibuprofen loading by FTIR measurement demonstrated that a big part of mesoporous pipe has been covered by ibuprofen molecule. Spectra of FTIR also show that increasing ibuprofen molecule was decrease the number of sylanol group of the SBA-15 but increase carbonyl and hydroxyl group. The SEM image show not only the average widht of the micropencil-like structure of SBA-15 close to the (1-2 mµ) and lenght of pipe close to the (30 mµ) but also white coral-like structure from ibuprofen excess. The ibuprofen molecule in ona part were obtained homogeneously dispersed within the pore structure of the SBA-15 but in the other part agglomerated without unformity. The elemental analysis by EDAX showed that the sample containing silica, oxygen,carbon and hydrogen that changed gradually as varying ibuprofen loadig. The result show that the structure of SBA-15 has been stable at the given condition which is afforded a maximum loading ibuprofen up to 10 mol at room temperature. The slow release of ibuprofen/SBA-15 is ascribed to its unique SBA-15 structure which is achieved optimum release up to 67% within 60 min.
The Synthesis of a Novel Tröger Base Polymer of 2,6(7)-Diamino-9,9,10,10-Tetramethyl-9,10-Dihydroanthracene
Authors: A. Karim Sadiq
Published: October 2018

Condensation polymerisation technique has been employed to synthesise a Novel Tröger base polymer with thermal stability and microporosity. The synthesis process starts with alkylating anthracene, then nitrating and reducing this to produce the monomer. A Tröger base polymer is obtained by polymerising the monomer to afford a white polymer with good solubility into dichloromethane and chloroform, good thermal stability to ~377oC and a good BET surface area of 368.6 m2/g with a total pore volume of 0.4166 ml/g.
Study of Physical Properties of Zn1-xAgxO Thin Films Deposited by Chemical Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Sarwan Bhawna , Deep Acharya Aman
Published: October 2018

To investigate the influence of Ag concentration on physical properties, the Zn1-xAgxO films were synthesized by chemical spray pyrolysis method. The crystallite size was found to decrease for low concentration of Ag then increase upto 50 nm with increase in Ag content. AFM measurement implies that the roughness and grain size increased due to coalescence of petite grains into larger size. In optical measurement, band gap is found to be decreased with increase in filler concentration.
Silver Nanoparticle Synthesis and Characterization from leaf Extract of Psoralea Corylifolia (Babchi)
Authors: Rani Humaira , Kumar Singh Vijay , Asif Shafaque , Israil Ansari Mohammad
Published: October 2018

Metallic nanoparticles, one of the building blocks of nanotechnology, have a variety of applications because of their unique and interesting properties. In this study, we have done the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by “bottom-up” technique using an extract of Psoralea corylifolia (Babchi) and silver nitrate (AgNO3). The synthesis of AgNPs was monitored by ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy. Primary characterization by UV-Vis spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrograph depicted that the synthesized nanoparticles of spherical and cubical in shape with uniform size distribution. In addition, the X-ray diffraction (XRD) further revealed that the nanoparticles were of the size ranging from 50-100 nm.
Potentiometric Studies of Binary Complexes of Transition Metal Ions with Lauric Acid
Authors: Kavitha Govindarajan , Vijaya Rohini Parasuraman , Sudarsan Alwar Sunkubangaru
Published: October 2018

The potentials of binary complexes of the Lauric acid ligand with various biologically vital divalent metal ions such as Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II)and Zn(II) have been studied in 50% DMSO-water mixture at constant ionic strength by Bjerrum method. Hydrogen ion concentrations were measured and the formation of binary complexes was inferred from the corresponding potentiometric pH-titration curves. The metal to ligand mole ratio was maintained at 1:5 to facilitate the maximum number of ligands to the metal ion. The dissociation constant has been determined by the half-integral method and pointwise method and were found in good agreement with each other. The Metal-Lauric acid stability constants have been calculated and compared with the results.
Next-Generation Sequencing for Biodefense: Biothreat Detection, Forensics, and the Clinic
Authors: Minogue Timothy D , Koehler Jeffrey W , Stefan Christopher P , Conrad Turner A
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is revolutionizing a variety of molecular biology fields including bioforensics, biosurveillance, and infectious disease diagnostics. For pathogen detection, the ability to sequence all nucleic acids in a sample allows near limitless multiplexability, free from a priori knowledge regarding an etiologic agent as is typically required for targeted molecular assays such as real-time PCR. Furthermore, sequencing capabilities can generate in depth genomic information, allowing detailed molecular epidemiological studies and bioforensics analysis, which is critical for source agent identification in a biothreat outbreak. However, lack of analytical specificity, inherent to NGS, presents challenges for regulated applications such as clinical diagnostics and molecular attribution.

CONTENT

Here, we discuss NGS applications in the context of preparedness and biothreat readiness. Specifically, we investigate current and future applications of NGS technologies to affect the fields of biosurveillance, bioforensics, and clinical diagnostics with specific focus on biodefense.

Overall, there are many advantages to the implementation of NGS for preparedness and readiness against biowarfare agents, from forensics to diagnostics. However, appropriate caveats must be associated with any technology. This includes NGS. While NGS is not the panacea replacing all molecular techniques, it will greatly enhance the ability to detect, characterize, and diagnose biowarfare agents, thus providing an excellent addition to the biodefense toolbox of biosurveillance, bioforensics, and biothreat diagnosis.
Misclassification of Calcium Status Based on Albumin-Adjusted Calcium: Studies in a Tertiary Hospital Setting
Authors: Smith Joel D , Wilson Scott , Schneider Hans G
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Clinical laboratories measure total calcium and adjust for albumin concentrations to predict calcium status. We compared total and adjusted calcium (Adj-Ca) with ionized calcium (Ca2+) for correct assignment of calcium status. The effect of restriction of Adj-Ca reporting in patients with hypoalbuminemia was determined on the basis of frequency of misclassifications.

METHODS

Extraction of laboratory results was performed for 24 months. Adj-Ca was calculated from a modified Payne formula. A further prospective data set for 6 months was collected after stopping reporting of Adj-Ca for patients with an albumin <3.0 g/dL. The agreement between Ca2+ and Adj-Ca or total Ca was assessed with Cohen's kappa statistic.

RESULTS

In 5553 hospitalized patients, 13604 paired Ca2+ results were analyzed retrospectively. Prospective collection in 1113 paired samples was from 450 patients. Adj-Ca was a poor predictor of calcium status compared to the Ca2+ reference standard in both data sets (agreement 56.9% in the first, 65.6% in the second data set). Renal failure and low albumin concentrations were associated with worse agreement between Adj-Ca and Ca2+. Restriction of reporting of Adj-Ca to albumin concentrations >3.0g/dL improved correct classification of calcium status from 65.6% to 77.6% (P < 0.0001). Total Ca performed better than Adj-Ca for low albumin (<3.0g/dL) and performed similarly in samples with albumin >3.0g/dL.

CONCLUSIONS

Adj-Ca is unreliable for the classification of calcium status in hospital patients when compared to Ca2+. Adj-Ca overestimates calcium for patients with renal impairment and albumin concentrations <3.0g/dL. Restriction of reporting Adj-Ca for albumin below 3.0 g/dL reduces the number of misclassified patients.
Multiplex Droplet Digital PCR Method Applicable to Newborn Screening, Carrier Status, and Assessment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Vidal-Folch Noemi , Gavrilov Dimitar , Raymond Kimiyo , Rinaldo Piero , Tortorelli Silvia , Matern Dietrich , Oglesbee Devin
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a progressive neuromuscular disorder with neuronal degeneration leading to muscular atrophy and respiratory failure. SMA is frequently caused by homozygous deletions that include exon 7 of the survival motor neuron gene SMN1, and its clinical course is influenced by the copy number of a nearby 5q SMN1 paralog, SMN2. Multiple ligation probe amplification (MLPA) and real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) can detect SMN1 deletions. Yet, qPCR needs normalization or standard curves, and MLPA demands DNA concentrations above those obtainable from dried blood spots (DBSs). We developed a multiplex, droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) method for the simultaneous detection of SMN1 deletions and SMN2 copy number variation in DBS and other tissues. An SMN1 Sanger sequencing process for DBS was also developed.

METHODS

SMN1, SMN2, and RPP30 concentrations were simultaneously measured with a Bio-Rad AutoDG and QX200 ddPCR system. A total of 1530 DBSs and 12 SMA patients were tested.

RESULTS

Population studies confirmed 1 to 5 SMN1 exon 7 copies detected in unaffected specimens, whereas patients with SMA revealed 0 SMN1 copies. Intraassay and interassay imprecisions were <7.1% CV for individuals with ≥1 SMN1 copies. Testing 12 SMA-positive samples resulted in 100% sensitivity and specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

This ddPCR method is sensitive, specific, and applicable to newborn screening and carrier status determination for SMA. It can also be incorporated with a parallel ddPCR T-cell excision circles assay for severe combined immunodeficiencies.
Breast Abscess and the Mother's Support Group
Authors: Hamzah Emelia Suroto , Padlyana Eddy
Published: October 2018

This case report deals with an18-years-ols primiparous lactating mother who had an abscess on the right breast and a cracked nipple on the left. She was referred to the Hasan Sadikin’s breastfeeding mother’s support group. Beside treating her with antibiotics and analgesics, surgical intervention was done which showed a good result. A proper lactation management succeeded in increasing the milk supply as was reflected in the growth of the infant. At home visite a well-grown and exclusively breastfed infant was found. So this mother-infant pair had got the benefit of the referral system established by Hasan Sadikin Hospital.
Liver Function Test in Cholestasis
Authors: Gautama Kompiang , Rini Anki Tri , S. Sudaryati
Published: October 2018

Cholestasis is impaired bile flow that cause prolonged evacuation of conjugated bilirubin and other substances which are dependent of bile flow for its excretion. The liver function test is useful to determine the severity of disease, to follow up its progress, and to predict the prognosis. This study was performed restropectively from the medical record of cholestatic patients who were admitted to the Department of Child Health, Central Hospital of Denpasar, from January 1992 to December 1993. Among 34 patients with cholestasis, 27 (19 intrahepatic and 8 extrahepatic cholestasis) were included in this study. Although the means of transaminase enzymes (SGOT, SGPT) in intrahepatic cholestasis were higher significantly than those in extrahepatic cholestasis, the increase of these enzymes five times or more than normal was not different significantly. The means of GGT and alkaline phospatase (AP) in extrahepatic groups were higher significantly than those in intrahepatic groups, and the increase of GGT more five times than normal was dilferent significantly as well. The means of total and conjugated bilirubin levels were higher in .extrahepatic group, but were not dilferent significantly.
BASIC BIOMECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF POLYURETHANE BASED ARTIFICIAL CANCELLOUS STRUCTURES
Authors: Šleichrt Jan , Kytýř Daniel , Pithartová Kateřina , Senck Sascha , Fürst David , Schrempf Andreas
Published: October 2018

The main goal of this study is to validate elementary mechanical parameters of a newly designed open-cell foam. The purpouse for investigating artificial material is to approach the properties of the human bone in the case of its adequate replacement. Investigated material can be also used as an artificial bone to train surgical procedures and to improve the skills of the surgeons. Four sets of the foam with different chemical composition were subjected to an uniaxial quasi-static loading to describe basic mechanical behaviour of these samples. Based on these experiments, the stress-strain diagrams were created as a comparative tool including calculation of the effective Young’s modulus. The acquired knowledges will be used as input parameters of a follow-up study aimed at describing the morphology of presented structures and their response to mechanical experiments. A distortion effect of porosity on the results is not considered in this study.
MODELLING AND SIMULATION OF ROCKING SUITCASES
Authors: Horvath Hanna Zsofia , Takacs Denes
Published: October 2018

The rocking motion of two-wheeled suitcases is investigated. A rigid body mechanical model of the suitcase is constructed. All of the possible motion states (both wheels on the ground, one wheel on the ground, none of the wheels on the ground) are taken into account. The switching between the motion states is accomplished by a simple impact model. The motion of the suitcase is investigated through numerical simulations, furthermore the domain of the attraction of the stable rectilinear motion is identified. The model is partly validated by experiments.
TESTING OF HYBRID NICKEL-POLYURETHANE FOAMS AT HIGH STRAIN-RATES USING HOPKINSON BAR AND DIGITAL IMAGE CORRELATION
Authors: Adorna Marcel , Zlámal Petr , Fíla Tomáš , Falta Jan , Felten Markus , Fries Michael , Jung Anne
Published: October 2018

In this paper Split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) was used for dynamic testing of nickel coated polyurethane hybrid foams. The foams were manufactured by electrodeposition of a nickel coating on the standard open-cell polyurethane foam. High strength aluminium alloy bars instrumented with foil strain-gauges were used for dynamic loading of the specimens. Experiments were observed using a high-speed camera with frame-rate set to approx. 100-150 kfps. Precise synchronisation of the high-speed camera and the strain-gauge record was achieved using a through-beam photoelectric sensor. Dynamic equilibrium in the specimen was achieved in all measurements. Digital image correlation technique (DIC) was used to evaluate in-plane displacements and deformations of the samples. Specimens of two different dimensions were tested to investigate the collapse of the foam structure under high-speed loading at the specific strain-rate and strain.
PREPROCESSING OF HOPKINSON BAR EXPERIMENT DATA: FILTER ANALYSIS
Authors: Adorna Marcel , Falta Jan , Fíla Tomáš , Zlámal Petr
Published: October 2018

This work presents a data preprocessing procedure for signal acquired during high strain-rate loading using a custom Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB). Before the evaluation of the experimental data, preprocessing of the measured signals including application of suitable digital or analog filter needs to be performed. Our department mainly focuses on measurements performed on advanced materials (e.g. materials with predefined structures or hybrid foams). For such measurements, it is essential to perform data preprocessing and apply suitable filter, to be able to appropriately determine deformation pulses on the measuring bars. This paper focuses foremost on spectral analysis of the measured signals, and design of optimal method of data filtering. Data from several different SHPB experiments were processed and results of different filtering methods are shown in this paper. Parameters of the best performing filter were optimized and shown to be universal for wide range of SHPB measurements.
«Naturaleza, riesgo y sociedad». La construcción social de las inundaciones en Santa Fe (1982–83/2003)
Authors: Beltramino Tamara
Published: October 2018

El artículo analiza la construcción social del riesgo en la ciudad de Santa Fe a partir del análisis cualitativo de discursos técnicos y políticos sobre las causas y la atribución de responsabilidades relativas a dos eventos de inundación significativos en la historia local acontecidos en 1982–83 y 2003. Partiendo de las convergencias y disputas presentes en estas visiones del fenómeno, se observa como en el trascurso del período la construcción social del riesgo se caracteriza por el paso del entendimiento del fenómeno como una amenaza natural a su explicación como un riesgo. Como uno de los hallazgos principales es posible sostener que este cambio en la perspectiva favorecerá la construcción social de las inundaciones como un problema público en la ciudad en el posdesastre de 2003, lo que se visibiliza a partir de la emergencia de conflictividad socioambiental en torno al fenómeno y en la modificación en las demandas para la gestión de riesgo al campo político, particularmente al Estado.
Ziele einer Bildung für nachhaltige Entwicklung in Schule und Hochschule: Auf dem Weg zu empirisch überprüfbaren Kompetenzen
Authors: Rieß Werner , Mischo Christoph , Waltner Eva-Maria
Published: October 2018

Wie gelangen wir zu empirisch überprüfbaren Kompetenzen in der Bildung für nachhaltige Entwicklung (BNE)? Mit einem Rahmenmodell, das fächerübergreifende und -spezifische Nachhaltigkeitskompetenzen in der schulischen und universitären BNE erfasst, möchten
wir vor allem zur Messbarkeit von BNE-Zielen beitragen.The recommended learning objectives in Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) have, for the most part, not been operationalized until now. Furthermore, connections to results of empirical educational research are often lacking.
However, this is necessary in order to evaluate the provisions of fostering ESD. Taking concepts of empirical educational research into account, we suggest a frame-model for the structuring of relevant competencies. This model distinguishes between a basic and an elaborated level of sustainability
competencies. On each level, differentiations are made between cognitive, affective-motivational and behavioural aspects. In the context of German secondary school learning, the focus is on inter- and cross-disciplinary competencies and a basic level of more domain-specific competencies. In
university contexts, a level of elaborated sustainability compentencies including highly domain-specific as well as inter- and transdisciplinary competencies are relevant. The proposed framemodel of competencies relevant in ESD will be helpful in the structuring of existing concepts and operationalizations,
to connect these competencies to other existing research, and to identify domains where operationalization is still lacking.