bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of capsaicin containing dried habanero pepper extract in the treatment of primary hepatic cancer in geriatric dogs
Authors: DĘBIAK PIOTR , GADOMSKA* DAGMARA , ŚMIECH ANNA , ZIĘTEK JERZY , ŁYP PAWEŁ , ŁOJSZCZYK-SZCZEPANIAK ANNA , WINIARCZYK STANISŁAW , ADASZEK ŁUKASZ
Published: July 2018

The study was aimed at the preliminary clinical assessment of the anti-cancer efficacy of a dietary supplement based on the extract of habanero peppers containing capsaicin in dogs with primary hepatic cancer. 24 dogs with primary hepatic cancer, divided into two groups, were followed up during the study. Group I included 16 dogs receiving a dietary supplement based on capsaicin-containing habanero peppers, while group II consisted of 8 dogs that did not receive any veterinary treatment. The dogs were subjected to clinical examination, ultrasound imaging as well as biochemical and haematological analyses. Patient survival was determined in both groups. An autopsy was performed in all animals that died or were euthanised, and tumour samples were collected for histopathological examination, on the basis of which the type of neoplasm was finally determined. Survival of dogs in group I ranged from 54 to 285 days (178.6 days on average). Survival of dogs in group II was 32-128 days (76.5 days on average). In none of the dogs classified to group I that had single tumours did the size of the lesion increase during supplement administration, and in the case of two dogs that were receiving the preparation for a long time (188 and 285 days), their liver tumours actually shrank. In all dogs from group II that had single tumours, the size of the lesions increased in the course of the observation. The preliminary clinical observations by the authors indicate that the capsaicin-containing habanero pepper extract exhibits favourable effects on liver tumours in dogs and is well tolerated by the animals, thus the obtained results are a good sign for future studies on alternative medications used in dog oncology..
Prevalence of CAEV infections in goat herds
Authors: GRUSZECKI TOMASZ M. , OLECH MONIKA , KUŹMAK JACEK , BAGNICKA EMILIA , SZYMANOWSKA ANNA , SZCZEPANIAK KLAUDIUSZ , GREGUŁA-KANIA MONIKA , TOMCZUK KRZYSZTOF , BOJAR WIKTOR
Published: July 2018

The aim of the study was to analyze the occurrence of caprine arthritis encephalitis virus (CAEV) in white improved goats, colored improved goats, Saanen goats, Alpine goats and Boer goats, raised in three regions of Poland. The analysis of CAEV infection levels was carried out in goat herds from the provinces in mid-Eastern Poland. The analysis included four goat herds. In total, they encompassed 251 herds of the following breeds: white improved goat, colored improved goat, Saanen goat, Alpine goat and Boer goat. The identification of the infected animals and the assessment of the epidemiological condition of the herds was carried out using serological analysis of blood serum samples. The assay of CAEV-specific antibodies in blood serum was performed using ELISA test. As a result of the observations it was established that with regards to the provinces, the prevalence level ranged from 35.40% in Mazowieckie province to 81.10% in Lubelskie province, and the average infection rate of animals in the studied region was 51.60%. As far as the breeds are concerned, it was found that the observed infection rate of the Saanen goat population was significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) than the rates for improved white goat (48.90%) and Alpine goat (50.00%). In relation to the colored improved goat, the calculated statistical difference was greater (p ≤ 0.01), and the percentage of infected animals was 32.10%. The analysis of the infection rate in the Boer goat herd revealed that 66.70% of animals are seropositive, and the statistical analysis did not show any significant differences in prevalence compared to other studied breeds. To sum up, it should be noted that the improvement of the situation may be attributed to consistent examination of goats and development of CAEV-elimination programs for herds. When creating programs aimed at the elimination of the virus it is also important to remember to raise the awareness of the farmers with regards to the detrimental effect of CAEV infections..
Dynamics of lamb coccidiosis in indoor management systems
Authors: SZCZEPANIAK KLAUDIUSZ , STUDZIŃSKA MARIA , JUNKUSZEW ANDRZEJ , ŁOJSZCZYK-SZCZEPANIAK ANNA , GRUSZECKI TOMASZ , DEMKOWSKA-KUTRZEPA MARTA , MILERSKI MICHAŁ , DROZD LESZEK , KARPIŃSKI MIROSŁAW , TOMCZUK KRZYSZTOF
Published: July 2018

Invasions of protozoa belonging to the genus Eimeria are a global problem in sheep farming. The clinical course of eimeriosis occurs almost exclusively in lambs. In adult sheep coccydiosis often has an asymptomatic course which, however, is not without an impact on animal conditions. Large flock density and related contamination of the environment with oocysts is conducive to a high extensiveness of the invasion. The aim of the study was to analyze the prevalence and intensity of Eimeria invasion in lambs kept in confined management systems in order to establish the key periods of the course of invasions and schedules for prevention programs. The parasitological examination was conducted on samples of feces collected directly from the rectum of 96 lambs every 14 days at the following time points: the 28th, 42nd, 56th, 70th and 100th days of life. The assessment involved the invasion extensity established using a flotation method and invasion intensity expressed as the number of oocysts per gram of feces (OPG) established by using the McMaster technique. On the basis of morphometric parameters of isolated oocysts, the species of coccidia in the studied animals were determined. During the whole study period, the invasion extensity grew from the minimum of 17.6% (CI ± 95%; 9.6-25.6) on day 28 to the maximum of 95.9% (CI ± 95%; 95.3-100.0) on day 100. The average growth in the invasion extensity in the flock was 19.6% every 14 days. The average invasion intensity in the study period was 3039.2 OPG (min-max 50-58,800; SEM 440.2), with the highest excretion of oocysts observed on day 42 of the lambs’ life. The average OPG value on this day was 6783.8, and dropped at subsequent measurement points. The experiment revealed exclusively multi-species invasions. In total, seven species of coccidia were found in the studied animals within the study period. These were: E. bakuensis, E. faurei, E. intricata, E. ovinoidalis, E. pallida, E. parva and E. crandallis..
Determining the occurrence of the Uncinaria stenocephala and Ancylostoma caninum nematode invasion in dogs in Poland, with special emphasis on the Lublin region
Authors: DEMKOWSKA-KUTRZEPA MARTA , SZCZEPANIAK KLAUDIUSZ , DUDKO PAULINA , ROCZEŃ-KARCZMARZ MONIKA , STUDZIŃSKA MARIA , ŻYŁA SZYMON , TOMCZUK KRZYSZTOF
Published: July 2018

Apart from roundworms, Ancylostomatidae nematodes are presently the most frequently observed nematodes in dogs in Poland, with two species described so far: Uncinaria stenocephala and Ancylostoma caninum. The study aimed to determine the hookworm species found in dogs in Poland, with special emphasis on the Lublin region. The study material consisted of fecal samples collected from 500 dogs from the area of the Lublin voivodeship. With the use of microscope methods, parasite eggs were found in 56.4% of the samples, dominated by the Ancyclostomidae nematode (26.8%). The isolated hookworm eggs were subject to morphometric measurements, giving a mean length of 77.60 μm and width of 44.25 μm (±SD ±6.01 and ±4.54 respectively) within the range 67-91 × 36-56 μm. The hookworm larvae that hatched from the samples were subject to molecular analysis (72 samples) and all were identified as U. stenocephala. In the area of the Lublin voivodeship U. stenocephala is the dominant hookworm species in dogs.
Comparison of the occurrence of tick-borne diseases in ticks collected from vegetation and animals in the same area
Authors: ROCZEŃ-KARCZMARZ MONIKA , DUDKO PAULINA , DEMKOWSKA-KUTRZEPA MARTA , MEISNER MICHAŁ , STUDZIŃSKA MARIA , JUNKUSZEW ANDRZEJ , SOPIŃSKA ANTONINA , TOMCZUK KRZYSZTOF
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of selected pathogens in ticks taken from cats and dogs and from vegetation in urban settlements. A study was conducted to estimate the distribution of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi in adult Ixodes ricinus (236), Dermacentor reticulatus (237) and Ixodes hexagonus (3) ticks collected from animals in veterinary clinics (184) and from vegetation in urban settlements (292). The most numerous ticks collected from animals were Ixodes ricinus (73.9%), followed by Dermacentor reticulatus (24.5%) and Ixodes hexagonus (1.6%). A total of 65.8% of the ticks collected from vegetation were Dermacentor reticulatus and 30% were Ixodes ricinus. The arthropods removed from the animals were most commonly located around the neck (48.1%) and in the mouth area (17.1%). All ticks were analyzed by molecular techniques. The percentages of ticks positive for Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum among those collected from animals differed from the corresponding rates for ticks taken from vegetation in the same area. Anaplasma phagocytophilum was more common in ticks collected from vegetation (N = 137, or 47.20%) than in those from animals (N = 12, or 6.6%). Borrelia burgdorferi, as well, was more common in ticks collected from the vegetation (N = 96, or 32.9%) than in those from animals (N = 19, or 10.5%). The DNA of A. phagocytophilum and B. burgdorferi were detected in 30.4% and 22.8% of D. reticulatus ticks, respectively, and in 32.6% and 25.4% of I. ricinus ticks, respectively. The DNA of A. phagocytophilum was also found in one Ixodes hexagonus tick. Single infections were noted in 69 I. ricinus ticks, 56 D. reticulatus ticks and 1 I. hexagonus tick. Coinfections of A. phagocytophilum with B. burgdorferi were detected in 33 (14.0%) I. ricinus ticks and in 29 (12.24%) D. reticulatus ticks. Infected companion animals can form a reservoir for human tick-transmitted infectious agents. The monitoring of the pathogens transmitted by ticks is an important tool in preventing and combating infections transmitted to humans and animals..
Methodology of udder description and the effect on somatic cell count in Czech White Shorthaired goat breed
Authors: NOVOTNÁ KLÁRA , SVITÁKOVÁ ALENA , RYCHTÁŘOVÁ JANA , FANTOVÁ MILENA , NOHEJLOVÁ LENKA
Published: July 2018

This study evaluated the effect of the linearly described shape traits of goat udders on somatic cell count. In a herd of 487 white shorthaired goats, seven traits (udder symmetry, udder depth, udder width, teat length, teat placement, rear udder attachment and udder cleft) were assessed in relation to somatic cell count in milk. The average somatic cell count was 1.3 mill cells/ml when considering the environmental effects (month and year of performance testing, lactation number. The somatic cell count is influenced by the depth (p = 0.0015) and width (p = 0.0268) of the udder. The results demonstrate that some traits of the udder shape influence the somatic cell count and can be considered as functional traits indicating animal health and herd profitability. After further studies, the methodology for linear description of the udder could be used for other dairy goat breeds, not only in the Czech Republic..
Analysis of longevity in Suffolk sheep in the Czech Republic
Authors: MILERSKI MICHAL , ZAVADILOVÁ LUDMILA , SCHMIDOVÁ JITKA , JUNKUSZEW ANDRZEJ , BOJAR WIKTOR
Published: July 2018

The objectives of this study were to evaluate systematic factors that influence longevity and to estimate the heritability of functional longevity by survival analysis of Suffolk sheep in the Czech Republic. A total of 20,502 ewes from 137 flocks were used. The longevity of Suffolk ewes was influenced to some extent by their average prolificacy. The effects of growth intensity and the development of muscularity and fattiness, as well as the effect of the prion protein gene PrP haplotype on the risk of the exclusion of the ewe from breeding were relatively low. Heritability estimates were h2 = 0.438 for the length of production life in days (LPL), h2 = 0.098 for the number of litters of the ewe during her lifetime (NL), h2 = 0.111 for the total number of lambs born (TLB), and h2 = 0.103 for the total number of labs weaned (TLW). Correlations between the breeding values for LPL and NL, TLB or TLW were high. Therefore, these indicators of the ewe’s lifelong production, which are more desirable and understandable for sheep breeders, should be used in indirect selection for longevity..
Male and Female Speech in Pride and Prejudice Novel by Jane Austen and Its Implication in Teaching Speaking
Authors: Janah Nuria Dhotul , Tarwiyah Siti
Published: July 2018

The study of gender is essential to the study of language. It is quite clear that male and female characters are different in many aspects. They not only different in their physical aspect but also in using a language. This research aimed to uncover the differences of a linguistic feature in the speech of male and female characters based on woman’s language theory revealed by Robin Tolmach Lakoff, linguistic features which are dominantly used by male and female characters and its implication in teaching speaking. Lakoff is a linguist who began the research of the feature of woman’s language. The data of this research were taken from conversations of male and female main characters in Pride and Prejudice novel by Jane Austen. Data collection technique used was documentation which was applied two steps they are reading the novel thoroughly and enlisting all speeches uttered by the main characters of the novel. The instrument of this research was Documentation Guideline. The researcher analyzed the data by using analysis technique according to Mile and Huberman, namely data reduction, data display, and verification. This research revealed that male and female character differs in their number of using of linguistic features. Female characters are stated use more lexical hedge, avoidance of strong swear word, rising intonation on declarative, empty adjective, intensifier, emphatic stress and super polite form than male do. Female characters use those features to show their uncertainty toward things; they tend to avoid strong swear word and use more superpolite form. Therefore, female expressions are considered more polite than male. Consequently, they can avoid friction in their conversation and build effective communication across gender. This result is in line with Lakoff theory. The researcher found that the feature which is dominantly used by male and female is an intensifier. Furthermore, the implication of this research in teaching speaking especially complimenting and interrupting expression as the functional expression is the student needs to exposed expressions of complimenting and interrupting appropriately.
Analyzing Cohesion Device of Monologue Texts in Students’ Text Book for Eight Grade in Academic Year 2017/2018
Authors: Muttaqin Muhamad Zayyinul
Published: July 2018

This study aimed to describe the types of cohesive devices that were mostly used and also to find out which one the most cohesive text among texts in Students’ texts book (When English Rings a Bell) for Junior High School at eighth grade in the academic year of 2017/2018. The object of this study was monologue texts that are found in students’ texts book for Junior High School at eight grade in the academic year of 2017/2018. This study used qualitative approach. The researcher analyzed the data; First, the data were analyzed by dividing and numbering sentences into clauses, second, putting the number of cohesive devices into tables based on types, third, putting the number of cohesive devices in the form of a percentage, the last, interpreting based on the result.
O PIBID e a formação dos estudantes bolsistas da licenciatura
Authors: Deimling Natalia Neves Macedo , Reali Aline Maria de Medeiros Rodrigues
Published: July 2018

Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar de que maneira as orientações do PIBID têm sido desenvolvidas e percebidas por diferentes sujeitos na formação dos estudantes da licenciatura, bolsistas de iniciação à docência. Para a construção dos dados, foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com 48 bolsistas e 17 professores (supervisores, colaboradores e coordenadores) envolvidos em quatro subprojetos do PIBID de uma universidade pública brasileira entre os anos de 2013 e 2014. Para a análise desses dados, foram utilizadas as técnicas de triangulação e categorização de dados. Entre outros aspectos, os resultados mostram que o Programa tem contribuído para a aprendizagem profissional dos estudantes, proporcionando-lhes a articulação entre os conhecimentos acadêmicos e os conhecimentos da experiência prática observada em seu contato com as escolas. Todavia, alguns aspectos indicados como limitantes, bem como a diferenciação que os professores e estudantes fazem entre o estágio curricular e o PIBID na formação inicial, também são analisados.
Editorial
Authors: Ribeiro Marcia Maria Gurgel , Martins André Ferrer Pinto
Published: July 2018

Editorial
Therapeutic Potential of Citronella Essential Oil: A Review
Authors: Sharma Ruchi , Rao Rekha , Kumar Sunil , Mahant Sheefali , Khatkar Sarita
Published: July 2018

Mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, filariasis, chikunguniya, yellow fever, dengue
and Japanese encephalitis are the major cause of remarkable morbidity and mortality in livestock
and humans worldwide. Since ancient times, aromatic plants are used for their medicinal value.
Essential oils derived from these plants may be used as effective alternatives/adjuvants in
pharmaceuticals, biomedical, cosmetic, food, veterinary and agriculture applications. These oils
have also gained popularity and interest for prevention and treatment of various disorders.
However, several reports on adverse effects including skin eruption, contact artricaria or toxic
encephalopathy in children are available for synthetic repellent in the literature. Thus, natural insect
repellents like essential oils have been explored recently as an alternative. One such essential oil
studied widely, is citronella oil, extracted mainly from Cymbopogon nardus. This essential oil has
exhibited good efficacy against mosquitoes. It is a mixture of components including citronellal,
citronellol, geraniol as major constituents contributing to various activities (antimicrobial,
anthelmintic, antioxidant, anticonvulsant antitrypanosomal and wound healing), besides mosquito
repellent action. Citronella essential oil is registered in US EPA (Environmental protection agency)
as insect repellent due to its high efficacy, low toxicity and customer satisfaction. However, poor
stability in the presence of air and high temperature limits its practical applications. Since specific
knowledge on properties and chemical composition of oil is fundamental for its effective
application, the present review compiles and discusses biological properties of citronella oil. It also
sheds light on various formulations and applications of this essential oil.
Anti-Ophidian Properties of Herbal Medicinal Plants: Could it be a Remedy for Snake Bite Envenomation?
Authors: Panda Subhamay , Kumari Leena
Published: July 2018

Snake bite envenoming causes high rates of morbidity and mortality and is one of the serious health-related concerns all over the globe. Around 3200 species of snakes have been discovered till date. Amid these species, about 1300 species of snakes are venomous. On account of its severity, World Health Organization (WHO) recently included snakebite envenoming in the list of neglected tropical diseases. Immunotherapy has partially solved the issues related to snakebite envenomation. However, it is associated with numerous adverse effects, due to which alternative treatment strategies are required for the treatment of snakebite. Traditionally, a large repository of herbal medicinal plants is known to possess activity against snake venom. An exploration of the therapeutic benefits of these medicinal plants used for the treatment of snakebites reveals the presence of various potential phytochemicals. The aim of the present review is to provide an outline regarding poisonous snakes all over the world, various compositions of snake venom, adverse effects related to anti-snake venom and numerous medicinal plants used for the anti-ophidian activity.
High Performance Capillary Electrophoresis Characteristic Fingerprint of Schisandra chinensis
Authors: Sun Yunpeng , Qian Min , Yuan Guangxin , Yang Hui , Cui Xinyuan , Li Yingnuo
Published: July 2018

Background:

The quality control indexes detected by the existing methods are less and lack
specificity, and cannot truly reflect their intrinsic quality because of the similarity of Schisandra chinensis
and Schisandra sphenanthera in both their appearance and their main chemical composition. Therefore,
it is urgent to establish an effective method for the quality control of the both. High-performance
capillary electrophoresis (HPCE) method was used to establish the fingerprints of Schisandra medicinal
materials.

Methods:

The HPCE was performed, in which a 50µm × 50cm (the effective length was 41.5cm) uncoated
fused silica capillary column was applied, the buffer solution was 10 mM phosphate buffer (pH
8)-37.5 mM SDS-35% acetonitrile (v/v), the working voltage was 28 kV, the temperature was 25°C, the
samples were injected at 50mbar pressure for 3s, and the detection wavelength was 214nm. The chromatographic
fingerprints of samples were analyzed using “traditional Chinese medicine chromatographic
fingerprint similarity evaluation system 2004A version” software and cluster analysis.

Results:

10 common peaks were confirmed and 8 components were identified in the HPCE fingerprints
of 20 batches of Schisandra chinensis and Schisandra sphenanthera, and the results of clustering were
consistent with those of similarity evaluation.

Conclusion:

This method should be accurate and reliable, and can provide a scientific basis for the
quality evaluation of Schisandra medicinal materials.
Quantification of Genotoxic Impurities in Key Starting Material of Sertraline Hydrochloride by Simple and Sensitive Liquid Chromatography Technique
Authors: Anerao Ajit , Solase Vishal , Gadhave Thaksen , More Amol , Pradhan Nitin
Published: July 2018

Background:

Schiff base is an advanced key starting material of Sertraline hydrochloride. Schiff base is synthesized using two raw materials 1-Naphthol and 1,2-Dichlorobenzene which are potentially genotoxic impurities.

Objective:

Genotoxic impurities need to be controlled in key starting material to avoid carry forward in the active pharmaceutical ingredient. For trace level quantification of impurities a sensitive, accurate and cost effective method is developed by simultaneous estimation of both impurities.

Methods:

Reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed and validated for determination of both impurities in Schiff base. HPLC column Cosmosil MS-II C18, 100 mm X 4.6 mm, 3 μm particle size with ultra-violet detector (UV) was used.

Results:

The calibration curve of 1-Naphthol and 1,2-Dichlorobenzene showed good linearity over the concentration range of 0.25 µg/g to 7.5 µg/g and 1.5 µg/g to 7.5 µg/g and the regression coefficient was 0.999 and 0.998 respectively. Method had very low limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) of both analytes which proves that the method is sensitive and suitable for quantification of compounds at trace level.

Conclusion:

The proposed method is specific, linear, accurate, rugged and precise. Genotoxic impurities 1-Naphthol and 1,2-Dichlorobenzene are quantified and controlled in the key starting material of Sertraline hydrochloride. The validated method can be used in quality control unit in pharmaceutical industry.
Simultaneous Determination of Hydrochlorothiazide in Combination with Some Antihypertensive Drugs in The Presence of Its Main Impurities in Pure Form and Pharmaceutical Formulations
Authors: Salem Maissa Yacuob , Hassan Nagiba Yehia , Fayez Yasmin Mohamed , ElSabour Samah Abd , Ali Enas Shaaban
Published: July 2018

Background:

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is potent diuretic that is used alone or in combination with other drugs such as labetalol (Lab) (mixtures Ι) or nebivolol (Neb) (mixtures ΙΙ) to control moderate to sever hypertension.

Introduction:

This paper demonstrates the establishment of different validated spectrophotometric and chemometric methods for simultaneous estimation of these mixtures in pure form and pharmaceutical formulations in the presence of HCTZ related impurities in quality control laboratories.

Methods:

(A) Derivative method (D3) of Lab and HCTZ and its related impurities at 245.3nm and 278.5nm respectively, (D1) of Neb and HCTZ at 294.2nm and 282.2nm, respectively. (B) First derivative of ratio spectra method (DD 1) of Lab at 244.3nm, HCTZ at 261.2nm and 275.4nm, while at 294nm for Neb and 269.4nm for HCTZ. (C) Ratio difference method which depends on measuring the distinction between the amplitudes of ratio spectra at 240nm and 288.3nm for Lab and at 270.1nm and 277.4nm for HCTZ for mixture Ι while at 290.4nm and 299.2nm for Neb and at 232.2nm and 254nm for HCTZ for mixture ΙΙ. (D) Mean centering of ratio spectra (MC) and (E) partial least squares regression (PLS) and principal component regression (PCR).

Results:

These methods were applied over concentration ranges of 10-100 µg/ml, 10-75 µg/ml and 2.5- 25 µg/ml of Lab, Neb and HCTZ, respectively. Methods were validated according to ICH guidelines and statistical comparison of results of reported and proposed methods revealed no difference.

Conclusion:

The methods were successfully used for the frequent analysis of selected mixtures in quality control laboratories.
Silver Nanoparticle-Based Arrays into Mesoporous Thin Films Structures for Photoelectronic Circuits
Authors: Delgado González Diana Catherine , Di Donato Andrés , Catalano Paolo Nicolas , Bellino Martín Gonzalo
Published: July 2018

Background:

Silver nanosystems have attracted considerable attention for numerous applications
in optoelectronics. The localized surface plasmon of silver nanoparticles embedded into
mesoporous titania gives rise to an enhancement of local optical field in the vicinity of Ag nanoparticles
which act as efficient light-trapping components, resulting in a visible wavelength-dependent
photocurrent.

Objective:

In this paper, we synthetized patterned nanocomposites formed by titania mesoporous thin
films loaded with alkanethiol functionalized Ag nanoparticles and we demonstrated that these stable
and accessible nanostructures possess a photocurrent response.

Method:

Mesoporous thin films are created by combining sol-gel synthesis and template selfassembly.
Based on a photolithography technique, silver nanoparticles were selectively photodeposited
and then stabilized with octanethiols. Current vs. voltage curves with and without light
were compared, where selective light wavelength measurements were achieved by using visible
bandpass filters. The optofluidic behavior was evaluated by placing a drop of solutions on the
mesoporous film.

Results:

We demonstrate photocurrent in these mesoporous thin film structures decorated with
chemistabilized Ag nanoparticle-based conductive arrays, with significantly enhanced photocurrent
peak at the plasmon resonant wavelength around 540 nm. Our findings offer a possibility to perform
improved fluid detection with silver-mesoporous titania electronic devices.

Conclusion:

We showed that an optofluidic sensitive nanocomposite circuit consisting of alkanethiol-
functionalized metal nanoparticles embedded in a mesoporous oxide thin film matrix can be
produced.
Effects of Calcination on Sol-gel Synthesis of Hollow Spherical 8%B-TiO2 for Photocatalytic Degradation of RBR X-3B -Characterization and Activity
Authors: Yang Lili , Zhao Yao , Li Jing , Zhou Yanwen , Xiao Xuan , Zhang Wenjie
Published: July 2018

Background:

TiO2-based materials can be utilized in both polluted air and wastewater
treatments. Ion doping is the most applied modification method, and many kinds of metal ions and
nonmetal ions are doped into a TiO2 crystalline skeleton. The hollow spherical photocatalyst can
both easily suspend in wastewater under aeration and settle down after treatment to release the water.

Methods:

The hollow spherical B-TiO2 photocatalyst was prepared by a sol-gel method. Tetrabutyl
titanate and tributyl borate were used as the titanium and boron sources. The materials were characterized
by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), infrared spectrum (FTIR),
and N2 adsorption-desorption techniques.

Results:

The 8%B-TiO2 material is composed of anatase TiO2 when the calcination temperature is
below 600°C. The graphical template is burnt out during calcination to leave a hole in the spherical
8%B-TiO2. The BET surface area of the materials declines from 53.2 m2/g at 400°C to 10.6 m2/g at
700°C. High-temperature thermal treatment results in the small surface area and large pore size. The
activity of the 8%B-TiO2 materials was studied on adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of RBR
X-3B dye. The 8%B-TiO2 sample prepared at 600°C has the maximum activity on RBR X-3B degradation.
After five cycles, decoloration efficiency on the 8%B-TiO2 decreases from 100% in the
first cycle to 80% in the fifth cycle.

Conclusion:

Photocatalytic activity of the hollow spherical material depends on calcination temperature
with the optimum activity on the sample obtained at 600°C. The hollow spherical 8%B-TiO2 has
satisfactory performance for recycling. Photocatalytic degradation of RBR X-3B can be proven by
the UV-Vis spectra during the degradation process.
Molecular Design and Synthesis of New 3,4-Dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-Ones as Potential Anticancer Agents with VEGFR-2 Inhibiting Activity
Authors: Mostafa Amany S. , Bayoumi Waleed A. , El-Mesery Mohamed , Elgaml Abdelaziz
Published: July 2018

Background:

Two series of 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-one derivatives were designed based on
the main structural features characterizing reported anticancer compounds with potent VEGFR-2 inhibiting
activity.

Methods:

All the target compounds were synthesized and investigated for their in vitro anticancer activity using
MTT assay and NCI protocol. The most active compounds were further investigated for the VEGFR-2 inhibiting
activity using enzyme inhibition assay.

Results:

Of these derivatives, compound 8b possessed significant activity against Caco-2 (IC50 of 24.9 µM) and
MCF7 (IC50 of 29.4 µM), compound 10 showed excellent potency against HCT-116 (IC50 of 32.6 µM),
HEPG2 (IC50 of 16.4 µM) and MCF7 (IC50 of 32.8 µM), while compound 11b exhibited moderate anticancer
activity towards MCF7 (IC50 of 41.7µM). Both 8b and 10 exhibited good potency regarding the inhibition of
vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2), with an IC50 of 14.00 and 21.62 nM, respectively.

Conclusion:

The activity was rationalized based on molecular docking study that supported their VEGFR-2
inhibitory activity; as indicated by their favorable binding with the active site.
Robert R. Edwards, Invention and Authorship in Medieval England (Ohio State University Press, 2017)
Authors: Laidlaw Martin M.
Published: July 2018

Robert R. Edwards, Invention and Authorship in Medieval England, Ohio State University Press, Columbus, 2017, 280 pp. $105.95.
Music for Wilde: An Annotated Listing of Musical Adaptations of Works by Oscar Wilde
Authors: Englebert Tine
Published: July 2018

An annotated listing of documented musical adaptations of works by Oscar Wilde, including detailed information on composers, lyricists, performances (venues and dates) where available.
Butterflies, Busy Weekends, and Chicken Salad: Genetic Criticism and the Output of @Pentametron
Authors: Henrickson Leah
Published: July 2018

Textual analysis places great emphasis on determining the development and direction of authorial intention to illuminate a text’s layers of meaning. How, though, is one to determine the development of authorial intention in a text that appears to remove the traditional human author? This paper explores issues of authorship presented to genetic criticism (critique génétique) by algorithmically-produced texts – that is, texts produced through programmed logic in a computer rather than through direct human agency – such as those of the Twitter bot Pentametron (twitter.com/pentametron). This paper considers the perceived importance of authorship and human agency in the creation of a text. Algorithmic texts challenge contemporary notions of textual creation and development, in turn posing challenges to genetic criticism that are similar to those posed by cut-up texts in other media. This paper argues that Pentametron’s rather nonsensical algorithmic output stresses the reader’s responsibility for meaning-making, and suggests that such algorithmic texts are not so much final texts to be subjected to genetic critique themselves, but are more aptly considered to be forms of avant-texte. These avant-textes serve as inspiration for human-computer symbioses, for re-creations wherein readers make sense out of the seemingly senseless.
Pengembangan modul pembelajaran aksara jawa “Dinta Swara” dalam huruf Braille untuk siswa tunanetra
Authors: Triyanto Triyanto , Rudiyati Sari
Published: July 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk: (1) menghasilkan modul pembelajaran aksara Jawa“dinta swara” yang sesuai untuk siswa tunanetra, dan (2) mengukur efektifitas modul pembelajaran aksara Jawa dalam meningkatkan kemampuan siswa tunanetra mengenai baca tulis aksara Jawa dalam huruf Braille. Pengembangan modul pembelajaran ini dilakukan melalui studi pendahuluan, pembuatan desain produk, produk akhir, dan evaluasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa modul pembelajaran aksara Jawa dalam huruf Braille efektif dalam meningkatkan kemampuan siswa tunanetra mengenai pelajaran bahasa Jawa, khususnya dalam materi baca tulis aksara Jawa. Peningkatan kemampuan tersebut terlihat dari hasil pretest dan posttest yang dilakukan. Pada pretest uji coba kelompok kecil diperoleh hasil 40,00, pada posttest uji coba kelompok kecil diperoleh hasil 7,33. Sedangkan pada pretest uji coba lapangan lebih luas diperoleh hasil 44,00, dan pada posttest uji coba lapangan lebih luas diperoleh hasil 70,66.Kata kunci: modul pembelajaran, aksara jawa, huruf braille, siswa tunanetra  DEVELOPING A MODULE FOR THE LEARNING OF THE JAVANESE ALPHABET “DINTA SWARA” IN BRAILLE FOR BLIND STUDENTAbstractThis study aims to: (1) produce a module of learning Java script "dinta swara" appropriate for blind students, and (2) measure the effectiveness of Javanese script module in improving the ability of students with visual impairment about reading Javanese script in Braille. The development of this learning module is done through preliminary study, product design, final product, and evaluation. The results showed that the Javanese script module in Braille is effective in improving the ability of blind students on Javanese lesson, especially in Javanese literacy reading material. Improvement of ability is seen from result of pretest and posttest done. In the small group trial pretest obtained 40.00 results, in small group trial posttest obtained results 7.33. While in pretest field trial more broadly obtained result 44,00, and at posttest field trial more broadly obtained result 70,66.Keywords: learning module, Javanese script, braille, blind student
Development of PositiveLinks: A Mobile Phone App to Promote Linkage and Retention in Care for People With HIV (Preprint)
Authors: Laurence Colleen , Wispelwey Erin , Flickinger Tabor E , Grabowski Marika , Waldman Ava Lena , Plews-Ogan Erin , Debolt Claire , Reynolds George , Cohn Wendy , Ingersoll Karen , Dillingham Rebecca
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Linkage to and retention in HIV care are challenging, especially in the Southeastern United States. The rise in mobile phone app use and the potential for an app to deliver just in time messaging provides a new opportunity to improve linkage and retention among people living with HIV (PLWH).

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop an app to engage, link, and retain people in care. We evaluated the acceptability, feasibility, and impact of the app among users.

METHODS

App development was informed by principles of chronic disease self-management and formative interviews with PLWH. Once developed, the app was distributed among participants, and usability feedback was incorporated in subsequent iterations. We interviewed app users after 3 weeks to identify usability issues, need for training on the phone or app, and to assess acceptability. We tracked and analyzed usage of app features for the cohort over 2 years.

RESULTS

A total of 77 participants used the app during the pilot study. The query response rate for the first 2 years was 47.7%. Query response declined at a rate of 0.67% per month. The community message board was the most popular feature, and 77.9% (60/77) of users posted on the board at least once during the 2 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The PositiveLinks app was feasible and acceptable among nonurban PLWH. High participation on the community message board suggests that social support from peers is important for people recently diagnosed with or returning to care for HIV.
Usability of Health Information Websites Designed for Adolescents: Systematic Review, Neurodevelopmental Model, and Design Brief (Preprint)
Authors: Reen Gurpreet Kaur , Muirhead Linden , Langdon Dawn Wendy
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Adolescence is a unique developmental period characterized by biological, social, and cognitive changes, as well as an interest in managing one’s own health care. Many adolescents use the internet to seek health care information. However, young people face barriers before they can understand and apply the health information that they access on the web. It is essential that usability of adolescent health websites on the internet is improved to help adolescents overcome these barriers and allow them to engage successfully with web-based health care content.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review was to synthesize the usability of specific health information websites. These findings were mapped onto the adolescent neurodevelopmental profile, and a design brief based on the findings was developed to tailor future websites for specific adolescent requirements.

METHODS

A systematic search conducted using PubMed, PsycINFO, and Education Resources Information Center (ERIC) identified 25 studies that assessed the usability of health information websites. Adolescent feedback was collected by a mixture of surveys, focus groups, interviews, and think-aloud procedures.

RESULTS

A majority of the information websites were developed for specific health issues that may be relevant to adolescents. The most preferred website features were interactive content such as games and quizzes, as well as videos, images, audio clips, and animations. Participants also preferred communicating with other adolescents with similar conditions or learning about their experience through real stories and testimonials. Adolescents found it difficult to use health information websites if they contained too much text, were too cluttered, or had features that made it difficult to access. The findings are considered in the context of adolescent social processes, low tolerance of delayed gratification, and attraction to novelty and mapped onto a neurodevelopmental model of adolescence.

CONCLUSIONS

Young people’s feedback can determine usability and content that make a health information website easy or informative to use. Neurodevelopmental profiles and the users’ specific preferences and skills should be addressed in future development of health information websites for adolescents.
Mobile-Based Nutrition Counseling and Unconditional Cash Transfers for Improving Maternal and Child Nutrition in Bangladesh: Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Huda Tanvir M , Alam Ashraful , Tahsina Tazeen , Hasan Mohammad Mehedi , Khan Jasmin , Rahman Mohammad Masudur , Siddique Abu Bakkar , Arifeen Shams El , Dibley Michael J
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Inappropriate feeding practices, inadequate nutrition knowledge, and insufficient access to food are major risk factors for maternal and child undernutrition. There is evidence to suggest that the combination of cash transfer and nutrition education improves child growth. However, a cost-effective delivery platform is needed to achieve complete, population-wide coverage of these interventions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and perceived appropriateness of an intervention package consisting of voice messaging, direct counseling, and unconditional cash transfers all on a mobile platform for changing perceptions on nutrition during pregnancy and the first year of a child’s life in a poor rural community in Bangladesh.

METHODS

We conducted a mixed-methods pilot study. We recruited 340 pregnant or recently delivered, lactating women from rural Bangladesh. The intervention consisted of an unconditional cash transfer combined with nutrition counseling, both delivered on a mobile platform. The participants received a mobile phone and BDT 787 per month (US $10). We used a voice messaging service to deliver nutrition-related messages. We provided additional nutrition counseling through a nutrition counselor from a call center. We carried out cross-sectional surveys at baseline and at the end of the study, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews with participants and their family members.

RESULTS

Approximately 89% (245/275) of participants reported that they were able to operate the mobile phones without much trouble. Charging of the mobile handsets posed some challenges since only approximately 45% (124/275) households in our study had electricity at home. Approximately 26% (72/275) women reported they had charged their mobile phones at their neighbor’s house, while 34% (94/275) reported that they charged it at a marketplace. Less than 10% (22/275) of women reported difficulties understanding the voice messages or direct counseling through mobile phones, while only 3% (8/275) of women reported they had some problems withdrawing cash from the mobile bank agent. Approximately 87% (236/275) women reported spending the cash to purchase food for themselves and their children.

CONCLUSIONS

The nature of our study precludes any conclusion about the effectiveness of the intervention package. However, the high coverage of our intervention and the positive feedback from the mothers were encouraging and support the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of this program. Further research is needed to determine the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of mobile-based nutrition counseling and unconditional cash transfers in improving maternal and child nutrition in Bangladesh.
Analisis Persaingan Dan Kepuasan Konsumen Dengan Menggunakan Metode Correspondance Analysis Dan Importance Performance Analysis
Authors: Pratama Nanda Bagus , Dewi Shanty Kusuma , Baroto Teguh
Published: July 2018

Epic Culinary is a cafe and a restaurant that established in January 2015. According to a survey conducted at the beginning of Epic Culinary it can be seen that the problems faced by the existence of a complaint to the problem places, products, facilities, and price. In addition, as a company that is growing and developing Epic Culinary do not have characteristics of companies that made the difference with existing competitors. Of the problems faced by the company companies also need to consider existing competitors, both in terms of strengths and weaknesse. In addition to analyzing the company's existing competitors should also strive to realize the expectations of consumers. Correspondence Analysis (CA) is the method used to pay attention to competitors, namely in terms of strengths and weaknesses of the company which will then be made as input in designing a strategy. After that to determine the extent of quality of service the company has done to the satisfaction of customer dan to increase consumer loyalty is by using importance performance analysis (IPA). Application of the method both methods above will do the deployment questionnaire using 7P concept of product, price, place, promotion, people, physical evidence and process used as an attribute in making the questions.
Analisis Kinerja Lingkungan Dan Produktivitas Dengan Menggunakan Konsep Green And Lean Productivity
Authors: Hakim Muhammad Hanifuddin , Mubin Ahmad
Published: July 2018

Regional Water Company (PDAM) Lamongan is a local company with main activity is to serve and provide clean water to communities through a system of pipes. Constraint occurs is in the process of drinking water treatment and wastewater sludge yield potential as a source of environmental pollution. Another problem is still limited because of PDAM services in 2013 is only capable of serving 4.7% of the total number of households (BPS population census of 2010). Taps need to increase the amount of water production in order to serve the wider community Lamongan. The concept of green productivity (GP) can be used in the search for solutions to increase productivity and protect the environment. The study begins by identifying the root cause of a lot of liquid waste and a low amount of water production, setting objectives and targets, choosing the resources and information available to arrange alternative green productivity. There are two alternatives, the selected alternative in this study are alternative 2 merge maximizing the raw water intake (pipe repair, purchase and installation of the intake screen 2 pump intake of government), Repair IPA II, and the use of wastewater that is the use of waste as material raw returned by first applying multilevel aeration technology to reduce levels of COD and BOD5 in wastewater. The productivity of the company in the first year after implementation of the selected alternative to 123%, an increase of 14% compared to the year 2013 and the total value of the EPI index to 18.35 or increased 42.65, which means it meets effluent standards wastewater East Java Governor Regulation No. 72 of 2013. In addition the production of water PDAM also increased 69.8% over the previous year.
Pemilihan Green Supplier Berdasarkan Fuzzy AHP Dengan Metode Fuzzy Topsis
Authors: Budianto Akhmad Ghiffary
Published: July 2018

PT. Petrokimia Gresik is a company producing fertilizer with raw material reactive chemicals. In the production process required adjuvant to speed up the process. On the other hand, the company also wants to realize its mission to the environment in accordance with goverment regulations. So that the company’s activities will reach a point of balance between the economy an the environment. The goal of this research is to help the company in determining the criteria and sub-criteria are influential in selecting green suppliers with Fuzzy AHP method, and helping to choose the best alternative green supplier with Fuzzy TOPSIS method. There are 9 criteria and 19 sub-criteria and 4 alternative supplier in this study. Based on the calculation method of Fuzzy AHP, the criteria that affect are the quality and environmental management system, whle for sub criteria are green image and the PPM levels. Based on the calculation method of Fuzzy TOPSIS obtained the best alternative solution for the company is supplier 1 from 4 alternative supplier