bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Caffeine versus Theophylline for apnea of prematurity
Authors: Zulqarnain Arif , Hussain Muddasser , Suleri Khalid Munir , Ali Ch. Zafar
Published: January 2019

Objective: To make a comparison between standard doses of theophylline and caffeine for the treatment of apnea of prematurity.

Methods: A randomised control trail was conducted in Department of Pediatrics Medicine Govt. Khawaja Muhammad Safdar Medical College and Govt. Allama Iqbal Memorial Teaching Hospital, Sialkot over duration of one year from August 2017 to August 2018 after approval from the hospital ethics committee. An informed consent in the form of written document was also taken from the parents of each infant participating in the study. Data was analyzed by using SPSS version 24. Mean and SD was calculated for numerical data like gestational age and mean concentration of caffeine and theophylline. Frequency and percentages were calculated for categorical data like nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), supplemental oxyen and intrventricular hemorrhage (IVH) grade I. Student t-test was applied in order to determine the significance of results. P value ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: A total of 100 infants were enrolled in this study. This study was further divided into two equal groups by lottery method i.e. 50% in each, treated with Theophylline and Caffeine respectively. Mean apnea events/day in neonates administrated by theophylline was 1±0.1, 2±0.12, 2±1.1, 1±0.10 and 2±o.12 for 0, 1-3, 4-7, 8-14 and 15-21 days respectively. While, the mean apnea events/day in neonates administrated by Caffeine was 2±0.3, 1±0.22, 2±1.5, 1±0.13 and 2±0.14 for 0, 1-3, 4-7, 8-14 and 15-21 days respectively. The differences were statistically significant for 1-3 days and 4-7 days p<0.05 according to student t test.

Conclusion: Results of our study revealed that caffeine being more effective than Theophylline for treating apnea of prematurity.

How to cite this:Zulqarnain A, Hussain M, Suleri KM, Ali Ch. Z. Comparison of Caffeine versus Theophylline for apnea of prematurity. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(1):113-116. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.1.94

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Cigarette smoking and metabolic syndrome components: a cross-sectional study from Maracaibo City, Venezuela
Authors: Bermudez Valmore , Olivar Luis Carlos , Torres Wheeler , Navarro Carla , Gonzalez Robys , Espinoza Cristobal , Morocho Alicia , Mindiola Andres , Chacin Maricarmen , Arias Victor , Añez Roberto , Salazar Juan , Riaño-Garzon Manuel , Diaz-Camargo Edgar , Bautista Maria Judith , Rojas Joselyn
Published: January 2019

Background: A growing body of evidence suggests that cigarette smoking can cause the onset of metabolic syndrome prior to cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between smoking habit and metabolic syndrome components in an adult population from Maracaibo city, Venezuela.

Methods: The Maracaibo City Metabolic Syndrome Prevalence Study is a descriptive, cross-sectional study with random and multi-stage sampling. In this sub-study, 2212 adults from both genders were selected. On the basis of their medical background, they were classified as smokers, non-smokers and former smokers. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to Harmonizing 2009 criteria, using population-specific abdominal circumference cut-off points. The association between risk factors was evaluated using a logistic regression model.

Results: In the studied population, 14.8% were smokers, 15.4% were former smokers. In the multivariate analysis, the presence of metabolic syndrome (smokers: OR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.11–2.14; p=0.010) and its components were related to cigarette smoking, with the exception of hyperglycemia. High blood pressure was inversely associated with current smoking status (smokers: OR, 0.70 (0.51–0.95); p=0.025).

Conclusion: Cigarette smoking represents a related factor with metabolic syndrome, being associated with low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, increased abdominal circumference and elevated triacylglyceride levels. Former smokers did not present a greater risk for developing this metabolic disease when compared to non-smokers. The effect of avoiding this habit should be evaluated in future studies in our population.
Going to the dentist
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: January 2019

Some tips for parents on taking their child for their first dental appointment, and the wider developmental benefits of doing so. By Annette Rawstrone
Ofsted: It is possible to inspect your school's curriculum offer
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: January 2019

Inspectorate's research reveals more details about how it plans to place ‘curriculum conversations’ at the heart of school inspection
A influência de Atividades Extracurriculares no Desenvolvimento de Competências Gerenciais em Grupos de Pesquisa
Authors: Freitas Pablo Fernando Pessoa de , Montezano Lana , Odelius Catarina Cecília
Published: January 2019

Este estudo visou identificar relações entre atividades extracurriculares (AE) e domínio de competências gerenciais (CG) em grupos de pesquisa (GP) brasileiros com uso da escala de domínio de CG em GP desenvolvida por Freitas e Odelius (2017), juntamente com questões relativas à contribuição de AE para o desenvolvimento de CG em GP. O questionário eletrônico foi aplicado a 528 participantes e submetido a estatísticas descritivas, análise de correlação Kendall-tau b e teste Kruskal-Wallis. A análise dos dados permitiu inferir que: 1) atuação em grupos de pesquisa, iniciação científica, extensão universitária, estágio, atuação profissional em geral, trabalho voluntário e projeto de consultoria se correlacionam com domínio de CG em todas as suas dimensões; 2) atuação em empresa júnior não se revelou capaz de influenciar significativamente o domínio de CG em GP; e 3) há diferenças significativas no domínio de CG em função do papel exercido no GP, do tipo de instituição, da área do conhecimento, da escolaridade, e do tempo de experiência com pesquisa acadêmica. Ao final, foram apresentadas conclusões, limitações e agenda para pesquisas futuras.
A Pesquisa Histórica em Administração: uma Proposta para Práticas de Pesquisa
Authors: Costa Alessandra de Sá Mello da , Silva Marcelo Almeida de Carvalho
Published: January 2019

Desde a última década, o uso da História vem se consolidando como uma perspectiva legítima nas pesquisas no campo da Administração, de forma geral, e nos Estudos Organizacionais de forma mais específica. Entretanto, apesar do amadurecimento, esse tipo de pesquisa ainda carece de maiores explicações a respeito de conceitos e procedimentos que possibilitem a operacionalização da pesquisa histórica dentro do campo da Administração. Nesse sentido, este artigo tem como objetivo discutir os caminhos da Pesquisa Histórica em Administração como método de pesquisa. Para atingir esse objetivo, procuramos revisitar a retomada da pesquisa histórica em Administração para, em seguida, discutir três dos principais conceitos norteadores da pesquisa histórica: fato histórico, fontes e documentos históricos e a operação histórica, inseridos em um percurso e operacionalização metodológica, considerando as diferentes etapas da pesquisa histórica e suas particularidades. Pretendemos, com essa discussão, abrir caminhos para que pesquisadores da área de Administração possam assumir uma atuação crítica e reflexiva capaz de romper com o pensamento tradicional que percebe as organizações como estruturas estáticas, regulares e constituídas a partir de relacionamentos causais cujos padrões e leis universais buscam explicar e predizer, historicamente, o que acontece no mundo social.
Resenha Crítica do livro: Sociologia das organizações: conceitos, relatos e casos
Authors: Rigo Ariádne Scalfoni
Published: January 2019

Resenha Crítica do livro: Sociologia das organizações: conceitos, relatos e casos.JAIME, P.; LUCIO, F. Sociologia das organizações: conceitos, relatos e casos. São Paulo: Cengage, 2017. 280 p.
The Role of STSG and Delayed Midline Approximation In Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
Authors: Irwansyah Denny , Sudjatmiko Gentur
Published: January 2019

Acquired abdominal wall defects can result from previous surgery, trauma, infection and tumor resection. Complex abdominal wall defects challenge both general and plastic reconstructive surgeons. Skin grafting of abdominal viscera was originally described by Horton in 1953, demonstrated in dogs that STSG placed on the parietal peritoneum of abdominal viscera and buried in the peritoneal cavity would take well and survive. In 1994, Baker and Millard Jr reported serial cases of abdominal midline wound dehiscence which was treated with two stage abdominal wall reconstruction.Data was taken from medical and surgical records of patients consulted to the plastic surgery division with and acquired abdominal defect. We are reporting, Male, 42 yo, previous history of Perforated appendicitis with general peritonitis. We performed 2 stage reconstruction of abdominal wall for this patient.Treatment for an abdominal defect is selected on the basis of several factors, including the medical status of the patient, wound bed preparedness, depth, size and location of the defect. The goals of  abdominal reconstruction are restoration of function and integrity of the musculo-fascial abdominal wall, prevention of visceral eventeration and provision of dynamic muscle support.Skin grafting and delayed midline approximation are one of the reconstructive option available and deserve to be considered in the high risk, septic patient without compromising the patient final reconstructive result.
Management of Root Like Man: Case from Gatot Soebroto, The Indonesian Army National Hospital
Authors: Sundoro Ali , Supit Laureen , Surachman Asrofi S. , Adam Harun , Budiman Budiman , Guntoro Guntoro
Published: January 2019

Background: Patients and clinicians experience the frustration of cutaneous viral warts due to human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. Verruca vulgaris, the common warts, appear in various forms at different body sites. Over 118 types of papilloma virus have been identified. The most common cutaneous warts are caused by types 1, 2, 4, 27, 57, and 19 HPV. The rare cases of generalized warts around the world are suspected to be caused by type 2 HPV. There are many treatment modalities for this disease but none is 100% effective yet. Patient and Method :We report a 39-year-old male with generalized warts on various body parts (scalp, forehead, trunk, arms, lower leg and foot). The team consist of plastic surgeons, dermatologist, psychiatrist, pathologist, medical rehabilitationist, and internist. The treatment goals were to remove all warts, prevent recurrence of the disease, and improve the immunological status of the patient. Serial excisions were performed and closure attained using a combination of primary sutures, skin grafts (split- and full-thickness), and skin flaps. 5 Fluorouracil was administered on the raw surfaces before closure. Staged excisions were performed 11 times, with 3-4 weeks interval over a1-year period. Interferon and cimetidine injection were also given to augment the immune system.Results : All lesions were successfully excised and reconstructed. On a few fingers, hypertrophic scar and minor contracture ensued after closure by skin graft. Patient is able to carry out daily living activities independently. Patient was profoundly delighted and his quality of life improved.Summary : Management of a rare generalized verruca vulgaris through a team approach, by multiple staged excision, 5-FU application before defect closure, combined with antiviral therapy, proved effective in a case.
The Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) Flaps in Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy
Authors: Parikesit Dyandra , Ashton Mark
Published: January 2019

Background: The continuing advances in breast reconstruction surgery allows for high expectation of excellent outcomes and long-term aesthetic appearance. Transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) flap has been the flap of choice in breast reconstructions for decades, however it sacrifices muscle and causes donor site complication. Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is now the preferred flap for microsurgical breast reconstruction, because it holds some advantages over TRAM. This study aim to review, summarize, and discuss the current knowledge of DIEP flap in breast reconstruction.Method: Literature research conducted through Pubmed, Medline, and SCOPUS databases for published articles up to the year 2009. A total of 808 articles were found, and 60 articles reviewed.Result: Women with thick subcutaneous fat and skin on the lower abdomen are the most appropriate candidates for autologous breast reconstruction. Patients might be given oral analgesics instead of intravenous, because DIEP results in less postoperative pain than TRAM. Patients are commonly discharged on the 6–7th day post operation after DIEP flaps. In spite of several reports that DIEP flap has low complication rates, necrosis is the most common and often leads to poor cosmetic outcome.Conclusion: DIEP flap essentially combines all the advantages of TRAM flap without most of its disadvantages. Some complications may occur in smaller percentage. Although DIEP flap has a high patient satisfaction score, it does not mean that it is definitely superior to other methods of autologous breast reconstruction.
Multidisciplinary Approach in Treating Undiagnosed Severe Temporo Mandibular Joint Ankylosis : A Case Report
Authors: Sandhi Afriyanti , Pakpahan Evie Lamtiur , Handayani Siti , Bangun Kristaninta
Published: January 2019

Background: Temporo Mandibular Joint (TMJ) ankylosis refers to bone or fibrous adhesion of the anatomic joint component and the ensuing loss of their function. The TMJ forms the very cornerstone of craniofacial integrity and hence its ankylosis in growing children adversely affects the growth and development of the jaws and occlusion. Difficulty in mouth opening and mastication, poor oral hygiene and rampant caries pose a severe physical and psychological burden in the tender minds of children. Patient and Method: Bony ankylosis on the right TMJ in a female patient was not diagnosed until the patient reached her early teens, at which the condition was treated by bony fusion release on the right condyle. We managed the patient for further orthognathic surgery (Le Fort I Ostoeotomy and Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy) to correct the skeletal deformity. Result: In collaboration with the Orthodontist for pre-surgery and post-surgery orthodontic treatment, and Physiotherapist for mouth opening and masticatory muscles exercises, a good functional and aesthetic result was achieved. Summary: Multidisciplinary approach in treating severe TMJ ankylosis is mandatory to achieve the optimum results. Awareness among all plastic surgeon and dentist involved in the treatment of craniofacial pathologies in children must be build to allow early diagnosis and treatment.
Nosocomial Infection in Burn Unit of Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta
Authors: Mahandaru Danu , Wardhana Aditya
Published: January 2019

Backgrounds: Burn patients, due to the immune compromise effects of their injury have a high risk for infections. The major cause of infection is the hospital environment contamination. This study was conducted to detect and identify isolated bacteria from patients and hospital environment in the Burn Unit and determine their antibiotics pattern in response to commonly used antimicrobial agents; in order to give recommendations for management of bacterial infections and drug-resistance. Patients and Methods: Retrospective observational study was conducted reviewing the database of Burn Unit in RSCM from January until December 2010. The characteristics of microorganisms found on the burn wound were compared to those obtained from the environments such as from the air, bathing water, and medical instruments. The pattern of microorganisms and their sensitivity-resistance characteristics were noted.Result: The pattern shows that nosocomial infection in the Burn Unit of RSCM was high. Klebsiella pneumoniae found on the burn wound eschars mimics those obtained from the air within the Burn Unit. Strains of MRSA were also found on screening.Conclusion: Our findings emphasize the need for careful disinfection and more strict infection control procedures in areas that serve immune suppression individual, such as burn patients.
Strategies to promote adoption and usage of an application to support asthma self-management: a qualitative observational study
Authors: Hui Chi Yan , McKinstry Brian , Walton Robert , Pinnock Hilary
Published: January 2019

Background

Apps can potentially support asthma self-management; however, attracting downloads and encouraging on-going adherence are challenging.

Objectives

We observed the impact of different recruitment strategies and app features on adoption and continued use.

Methods

Practice nurses in five practices in Lothian/Oxford approached adults with active asthma to try out a prototype app. We also advertised the app via social media (Asthma UK; AUK Centre for Applied Research). We observed patients’ download and retention rates and sent pre- and post-trial questionnaires. We sampled 15 patients for interviews before and after using our app for 1 month to explore motivations, triggers and barriers to adoption and usage. Interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically with reference to the Fogg behaviour model.

Results

Social media attracted 87 users, but only 15 (17%) used the app for 30 days. Practices recruited 24 patients, 13 (54%) continued for 30 days. Successful adoption was dependent on ease of downloading and sufficient motivation. Some patients needed technological assistance with downloading the app and starting to use the features. Adherence was dependent on motivation derived from a sense that the healthcare professional and/or researcher was interested in the results, and that using an app to support their self-management could improve their asthma control.

Conclusion

Social media attracted more downloads in a short time. However, most patients stopped using the app within a month. Practices attracted fewer downloads, but patents adhered longer to the app. Dual promotion strategies (social media with practice support) may be the optimal approach to encourage adoption and adherence to telehealth.
Matrix metalloproteinases: relationship with cytokines system, diagnostic and prognostic potential
Authors: Markelova E. , Zdor V. , Romanchuk A. , Birko O.
Published: January 2019

This review presents biological properties of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), their classification and synthesis regulation by cytokines and MMPs tissue inhibitors. We analyzed researches, describing the role of MMPs in physiological and pathological processes. MMPs involvement into pathogenesis of aging, diseases of skin, joints, parodontium, open angle glaucoma, cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary diseases and malignancies, was proved. The role of MMPs and MMPs tissue inhibitors defection was demonstrated in fibrosis formation of liver, kidney and thyroid. Examination of cytokines and MMPs during different diseases may be the key method of diagnostic, treatment efficacy and prognosis assessment, and also key method for new treatments development.
Analysis of association of polymorphism -238G>A TNF gene with the pulmonary sarcoidosis in the Republic of Karelia of the russian population
Authors: Malysheva I. , Topchieva L. , Tikhonovich E. , Barysheva O. , Volkova T.
Published: January 2019

Aim. To analyze the associations of the -238G>A polymorphism of TNF gene with susceptibility to pulmonary sarcoidosis in ethnic Russian patients of Karelia republic. Subjects and methods. The distribution of alleles and genotypes of the -238G>A polymorphism of TNF gene was studied in 84 patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis and 96 healthy controls. The polymorphic alleles were identified by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length analysis. Results. Comparative analysis revealed no significant differences in the frequency of the alleles of the -238G>A polymorphism of TNF gene in investigated groups. Conclusion. The -238G>A polymorphism of TNF gene is not associated with the risk of pulmonary sarcoidosis in ethnic Russian patients of Karelia republic
A Comparison of the Accelerated Solvent Extraction Method to the Soxhlet Method in the Extraction of Cotton Fiber Wax
Authors: Fortier Chanel Angelique , Cintron Michael Santiago , Peralta Donna , Hoven Terri Von , Fontenot Krystal , Rodgers James E. , Delhom Christopher
Published: January 2019

Cotton fiber wax extraction yields of the contemporary accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) method were compared to the reference Soxhlet extraction method. Two Upland cotton varieties, referred to as the STV5458 B2F and the FM9180 B2F varieties grown in Lubbock, TX, USA, were examined. Effects of ASE extraction time and temperature were investigated. Characteristic environmental scanning electron microscopic (ESEM) images revealed fiber damage following both extraction methods, with the ASE method showing the least damage. A one-way ANOVA showed the two methods to be statistically different according to a 95% confidence level (p < 0.05) when combining analyses of the two cotton varieties.
Kajian Analisis Sesar di Perbukitan Jiwo Barat, Kecamatan Bayat, Kabupaten Klaten, Jawa Tengah
Authors: Adha Ikhwannur , Kurniasih Anis , Nugroho Hadi , Rachwibowo Prakosa
Published: January 2019

Bayat adalah salah satu daerah di Pulau Jawa yang memiliki singkapan batuan pra-Tersier. Batuan terkekarkan karena aktivitas tektonik. Hal ini membutuhkan penjelasan dan analisis terperinci untuk memahami zona sesar dan mekanismenya. Penelitian dilakukan untuk mengetahui zona sesar dan karakteristiknya di Perbukitan Jiwo Barat, Kecamatan Bayat, Kabupaten Klaten, Jawa Tengah, dan juga mekanisme pembentukan zona sesar untuk mengetahui kerangka tektoniknya. Metode penelitian ini meliputi analisis topografi, analisis petrografi, proyeksi stereografi, dan penentuan kronostratigrafi. Proyeksi stereografi memanfaatkan data hasil pengukurn struktur lapangan dan dijalankan pada perangkat lunak Dips. Hasil analisis dipakai untuk mendukung interpretasi tentang mekanisme pembentukan zona sesar di daerah penelitian. Stratigrafi di lokasi penelitian, dari urutan tua ke muda, terdiri dari Batuan Metamorf, Batupasir, Batugamping Eosen, Intrusi Batuan Beku, Batugamping Miosen, dan Aluvial. Zona sesar yang ditemukan di daerah penelitian adalah sesar mendatar menganan yang terdiri dari Sesar Mendatar Tugu, Sesar Mendatar Sari dan Sesar Mendatar Kebo, dan detachment fault yang terdiri dari Jowo Detachment Fault. Zona sesar memiliki dua orientasi utama, barat daya-timurlaut (N 217o E) dan barat laut-tenggara (N 330o E, N 122o E, dan N 287o E). Mekanisme pembentukan zona sesar di lokasi penelitian terjadi dalam dua periode tektonik, pada Kapur Akhir karena subduksi baratdaya - baratlaut yang membentuk Sesar Mendatar Tugu dan Sesar Mendatar Kebo, dan pada Akhir Eosen-Oligosen yang disebabkan oleh subduksi utara-selatan yang membentuk Sesar Mendatar Sari dan Jowo Detachment Fault.
Illumination design patterns for homogenization and color mixing
Authors: Muschaweck Julius , Rehn Henning
Published: January 2019

In illumination optics, color mixing is a key design task, but the realization can be a challenge. While tunable light sources based on multiple LEDs are commonplace, color homogenization is just as important for white LEDs, due to their spatial and angular color variation. In this tutorial, we first look at color mixing from an abstract, phase space-based viewpoint. From there, we derive a taxonomy of color mixing problems: How is the multi-color light source composed? What kind of homogeneity is required in the target? How is the homogenization influenced by source and target étendue? We categorize these problems and we present a toolbox: A selection of optical design elements, e.g. mixing rods and fly’s eye arrays, and we show for each design pattern how it fits into the taxonomy.
Preparation, structural changes and adsorption performance of heavy metal ions on sulfonated cellulose with varying degrees of substitution
Authors: Dong Cuihua , Wang Binshou , Meng Yahui , Pang Zhiqiang
Published: January 2019

Sulfonated cellulose (SC) with varying degrees of substitution (DS) were prepared with the pyridine sulfur trioxide complex (Py-SO3) as a sulfonation reagent (as a source of sulfur trioxide) in dimethyl formamide (DMF) as a solvent, where the DS was primarily affected by the molar ratio between Py-SO3 and the anhydroglucose (AHG) unit. Sulfonation temperature and residence time have less effect on DS. The ratio of the crystalline domain of SC decreased gradually with incremental DS, and the crystalline cellulose I of SC at DS0.81 nearly disappeared, and the moiety of the paracrystalline SC with high hydrophilicity increased. The thermostability decreased with increasing DS as a consequence of crystalline domain decrement. The adsorption performance of SC to metal ions was enhanced with increasing DS. However, above DS 0.62, the adsorption capacity enhancement is negligible. For an economic adsorption of heavy meatal ions in effluents, the DS of SC must be optimized.
Diminutives derived from terms for children: Comparative evidence from Southeastern Mande
Authors: Nikitina Tatiana
Published: January 2019

The study addresses the relationship between diachronic change and synchronic polysemy based on the use of diminutives in four closely related Southeastern Mande languages. It explores the synchronic patterns of use of cognate diminutive markers deriving from the word ‘child’, and accounts for differences between the languages in terms of a Radial Category network, which is designed to capture in one representation both mechanisms of diachronic change and mechanisms of regular meaning extension. The study argues that the same approach can be used to account for the ways diminutive markers acquire new meanings and for the ways an old diminutive category disintegrates, when new markers start replacing the old one in some of the core diminutive functions. The invasion and expansion of new markers may result in discontinuous semantic structures that can only be understood when the diachrony is taken into account (in this particular case study, the evidence for historical change comes from a synchronic comparison with closely related languages).
External possession of body-part nouns in Dinka
Authors: Andersen Torben
Published: January 2019

In Dinka, a Western Nilotic language, body-part nouns may be externally possessed. External possession is possible and the default option if the body-part noun is semantically part of a transitive object, an unaccusative subject, or a copula subject. With transitive and ditransitive verbs, the external possessor is object, and with intransitive and copulative verbs, it is subject. Externally possessed body-part nouns have no grammatical relation to the verb, and they are restricted to occurring in dedicated syntactic slots of the clause, adjacent to a slot used by the main verb when the finite verb is an auxiliary. In transitive clauses, the body-part noun occurs immediately after that slot. In intransitive and copulative clauses, it occurs immediately before the same slot, and here a phonologically determined subset of the body-part nouns are morphologically marked by tone shift as being externally possessed. These facts suggest that the possessum forms some kind of unit with the verb that is reminiscent of noun incorporation. In Dinka, the referent of virtually any noun can be conceived of a having a body part, and therefore virtually anything can be an external possessor: pronouns, animate nouns, and inanimate nouns, including abstract nouns.
The status of the Dutch polecat population: correction of a recently published error
Authors: Hofmeester Tim R. , Dijkstra Vilmar , Dekker Jasja J.A. , van der Meij Tom , Broekhuizen Sim
Published: January 2019

A recent review of the status of the Western or European polecat (Mustela putorius) by Croose et al. (Croose, E., J.W. Duckworth, S. Ruette, D.V. Skumatov, V.V. Kolesnikov and A.P. Saveljev. 2018. A review of the status of the Western polecat Mustela putorius: a neglected and declining species? Mammalia. 82: 550–564.) showed that the species is declining over large parts of its range. The information on the Dutch population in this review was based on incorrect information in the Atlas of the Dutch Mammals. Here, we correct this information and state that we currently have insufficient data to make inference about the Dutch polecat population. Consequently, there is a need for a robust monitoring scheme for polecats in the Netherlands.
Snake predation on bats in Europe: new cases and a regional assessment
Authors: Barti Levente , Péter Áron , Csősz István , Sándor Attila D.
Published: January 2019

Among reptiles only snakes are known to frequently feed on bats and even inside this group chiropterophagy is rare, with most records being noted in the tropics. In the temperate region and especially in Europe, only a handful of cases have been described. Here, we report further cases of bat predation in underground habitats of Bulgaria, highlighting the importance of the Aesculapian snake (Zamenis longissimus) predation on bats in the Western Palearctic. Until now, 11 species of bats have been recorded as preys of snakes in Europe. Our observations are the first records of snake hunting on Mediterranean horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus euryale) and on greater mouse-eared bats (Myotis myotis) in Europe, and only the third to fourth observation of underground predation. The observation in a short time of two incidences of hunting in a fairly small area, coupled with the regular presence of snakes in cave environments, may suggest a more common bat hunting habit for Aesculapian snakes. Bat predation of snakes in the Balkan region (or in the Mediterranean) certainly is more common than previously assumed. The number of records may increase substantially with targeted search during crepuscular and night hours in the entrance area of underground bat shelters.
Reactivity of allenylphosphonates/allenylphosphine oxides – some new addition/cycloaddition and cyclization pathways
Authors: Swamy K. C. Kumara , Anitha Mandala , Debnath Shubham , Shankar Mallepalli
Published: January 2019

In this paper, we highlight some addition/cycloaddition reactions of allenylphosphonates and allenylphosphine oxides, mostly based on the work done in our laboratory. Thus the electrophilic addition of iodine monochloride (ICl) with allenylphosphine oxides affords cyclic phosphonium salts rather than γ-chloro-β-iodovinylphosphine oxides (NMR, HRMS, X-ray) that exhibit rather unusual downfield shifts in the 31P NMR spectra. These compounds undergo hydrolysis to afford γ-hydroxy-β-iodovinylphosphine oxides; the hydroxymethyl group in these compounds can be oxidized by Dess-Martin periodinane to afford the corresponding aldehyde-substituted vinylphosphine oxides. A [2+2] cycloaddition product of an allenylphosphonate has also been structurally characterized. Other reactions that are highlighted include those leading to (Z)/(E)-β-aminovinylphosphonates, β-ketophosphonates (and their utility in Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction), indolyl/furanyl/isocoumaranyl/naphthyl phosphine oxides, thiophosphorylated phosphonates and azo-substituted coumarin phosphonates.
Exact solutions and conservation laws for the modified equal width-Burgers equation
Authors: Khalique Chaudry Masood , Simbanefayi Innocent
Published: January 2019

In this paper we study the modified equal width-Burgers equation, which describes long wave propagation in nonlinear media with dispersion and dissipation. Using the Lie symmetry method in conjunction with the (G'/G)− expansion method we construct its travelling wave solutions. Also, we determine the conservation laws by invoking the new conservation theorem due to Ibragimov. As a result we obtain energy and linear momentum conservation laws.
Elastic properties and plane acoustic velocity of cubic Sr2CaMoO6 and Sr2CaWO6 from first-principles calculations
Authors: Jia Zhenyuan , Wang Peida , Smith Willie
Published: January 2019

The elastic properties and plane acoustic velocity of double perovskite Sr2CaMoO6 and Sr2CaWO6 are investigated with the plane wave pseuedopotential method based on the first-principles density functional theory within the local density approximate (LDA) and the generalized gradient approximation (GGA). The calculations indicate that Sr2CaMoO6 and Sr2CaWO6 respectively have the the Mo-O and W-O stable octahedral structure. The bulk modulus B, shear modulus G, Young’s modulus E, Poisson’s ratio ν and Debye temperature were calculated based on the elastic constants. The three dimensional plane acoustic velocities and their projection are in calculated for each direction by solving the Christoffel’s equation systematically based on the theory of acoustic waves in anisotropic solids, the result shows of anisotropy of lattice vibration for Sr2CaMoO6 is stronger than Sr2CaWO6.
Fouling and fouling mitigation of calcium compounds on heat exchangers by novel colloids and surface modifications
Authors: Kazi Salim N.
Published: January 2019

Fouling is the accumulation of unwanted materials on surfaces that causes detrimental effects on its function. The accumulated materials can be composed of living organisms (biofouling), nonliving substances (inorganic and/or organic), or a combination of both of them. Mineral fouling occurs when a process uses cooling water supersaturated with mineral salt crystals (i.e. hard water). Precipitation ensues on heat transfer surfaces whenever the inversely soluble dissolved calcium salt ions are exposed to high temperature. Mineral salts, dirt, waxes, biofilms, whey proteins, etc. are common deposits on the heat exchanger surfaces, and they create thermal resistance and increase pressure drop and maintenance costs of plants. Fouling of dissolved salts and its mitigation have been studied in detail by varying process parameters, surface materials, coatings on surfaces, additives, etc. by many researchers. In the present stage, researchers have considered polymeric additives, environmental friendly nanoparticles, natural fibers, and thermal conductive coatings (metallic and polymeric) in the study of mitigation of fouling. A better understanding of the problem and the mechanisms that lead to the accumulation of deposits on surfaces will provide opportunities to reduce or even eliminate the problem in certain situations. The present review study has focused on fouling phenomena, environment of fouling, heat exchanger fouling in design, and mitigation of fouling. The findings could support in developing the improved heat exchanger material surfaces, retain efficiency of the heat exchangers, and prolong their continuous operation.
Diverse polyketides and alkaloids from Penicillium sp. KHMM: structural elucidation, biological and molecular docking studies
Authors: Hamed Abdelaaty , Ismail Mohamed , El-Metwally Mohammad M. , Frese Marcel , Ibrahim Tarek M.A. , El-Haddad Atef F. , Sewald Norbert , Shaaban Mohamed
Published: January 2019

As a continuation of our earlier research concerning the investigation of microbial bioactive secondary metabolites from the terrestrial Penicillium sp.KH Link 1809 isolate KHMM, the fungus was re-cultivated on a large scale to explore its bioactive compounds intensively. Fifteen compounds, including seven alkaloids (1–7), one sesquiterpene (8), an acetylenic system (9), two sterols, and sphengolipid, were identified. Their structures were established on the bases of extensive one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance and mass measurements, and by comparison with literature data. The antimicrobial activity of the fungal extract and the corresponding compounds were studied using a panel of pathogenic microorganisms, and their in vitro cytotoxicity against the human cervix carcinoma cell line (KB-3-1) was reported as well. The molecular docking of the isolated compounds showed promising affinities for the alkaloidal compounds 4–6 towards α, β tubulins.
Linear enzyme cascade for the production of (–)-iso-isopulegol
Authors: Peters Christin , Buller Rebecca
Published: January 2019

Biocatalysis has developed enormously in the last decade and now offers solutions for the sustainable production of chiral and highly functionalised asset molecules. Products generated by enzymatic transformations are already being used in the food, feed, chemical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry, and the accessible compound panoply is expected to expand even further. In particular, the combination of stereo-selective enzymes in linear cascade reactions is an elegant strategy toward enantiomeric pure compounds, as it reduces the number of isolation and purification steps and avoids accumulation of potentially unstable intermediates. Here, we present the set-up of an enzyme cascade to selectively convert citral to (–)-iso-isopulegol by combining an ene reductase and a squalene hopene cyclase. In the initial reaction step, the ene reductase YqjM from Bacillus subtilis selectively transforms citral to (S)-citronellal, which is subsequently cyclised exclusively to (–)-iso-isopulegol by a mutant of the squalene hopene cyclase from Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius (AacSHC). With this approach, we can convert citral to an enantiopure precursor for isomenthol derivatives.
Identification of benzisoquinolinone derivatives with cytotoxicities from the leaves of Portulaca oleracea
Authors: Wei Rong-Rui , Ma Qin-Ge , Zhong Guo-Yue , Yang Ming , Sang Zhi-Pei
Published: January 2019

Three new benzisoquinolinones (1–3), together with seven known benzisoquinolinone derivatives (4–10), were isolated from Portulaca oleracea for the first time. The structures of the isolated compounds (1–10) had been elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic methods including ultraviolet, infrared, mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques and by comparison with data reported in the references. All isolated compounds were assayed for cytotoxicities against selected human lines in vitro by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide assay. Compounds 1, 2, 4, and 7 showed important cytotoxicities against HCT116, MCF-7, U87, and A549 cell lines with IC50 values in the range of 11.62–84.45 μM, which compared with positive control doxorubicin.
Semianalytic Weibull Model to Assess the Influence of Strength Controlling Flaws for Bimodular C-Ring Specimen
Authors: Bhushan Awani , Panda S. K.
Published: January 2019

The present study addresses the issues of shifting of elastic axis and elastic surface for strength scaling of bimodular C-ring specimens using a Weibull statistical model. A semianalytical weakest link theory approach has been followed to evaluate the effective volume and effective area with presumed surface and volume distributed scattered flaws in the specimen. Experimentation, semianalytic, and finite element–based numerical procedures have been pursued to iteratively evaluate the Weibull characteristic parameters for typical loading configurations. Significant asymptotic variation in these two parameters has been observed at a low Weibull modulus for a set of change in elastic modulus ratio of tension and compression in contrast to unimodular assumptions. This variation can be ascribed to the significant shifting of neutral surface from the centroidal surface, thereby exhibiting the low level of confidence in designing bimodular structures. Also, the gradients of the curve are very steep, reflecting the uncertainty in strength characteristics as compared to the unimodular case, thus causing changes in the Weibull effective volume and effective surface area. The variation in Weibull effective surface area is less in comparison to the effective volume for unimodular and bimodular thick and thin C-ring specimens. The tabulated results can be used to substitute for a large number of expensive experiments for the design and analysis of bimodular structural components.
Magnetic Field Strength and Temperature Effects on the Behavior of Oil Well Cement Slurry Modified with Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Quantified with Vipulanandan Models
Authors: Vipulanandan C. , Mohammed A.
Published: January 2019

The focus of this study was to investigate the methods that could potentially be easy to adopt in field to modify cement slurry rheological properties in situ during the installation of oil and gas wells. In this study, we investigated the effects of magnetic field strengths and temperatures on the rheological properties of an oil well cement (Class H) modified with iron oxide nanoparticles (NanoFe2O3). Also, the sensitivity of using electrical resistivity in monitoring changes in the cement slurry was also investigated. The water-to-cement ratio used in this study was 0.38, since it is a popular ratio used in oil well cementing. The NanoFe2O3 contents (average particle size of 30 nm) in the cement slurry were varied up to 1 % by the weight of cement. The temperature was varied from 25°C to 85°C. The magnetic field strength was varied up to 0.6 T. The initial electrical resistivity of the cement slurry modified with NanoFe2O3 decreased by 6 % to 52 % based on the NanoFe2O3 content, temperature, and magnetic field strength. The shear thinning behavior of the cement slurry with and without NanoFe2O3 has been quantified using the Vipulanandan rheological model and compared to the Herschel-Bulkley model. The results show that the Vipulanandan rheological model predicted the shear thinning relationship between the shear stress and shear strain rate of the NanoFe2O3-modified cement slurry very well with the maximum shear stress tolerance. The rheological properties of the cement slurry modified with NanoFe2O3 under different magnetic field strengths have been correlated to the electrical resistivity of the cement slurry using a nonlinear resistivity and Vipulanandan property correlation models. Thus, the performance of the cement slurry with and without NanoFe2O3 can be characterized based on the electrical resistivity, which can be used as a real-time monitoring tool in the field.
An Enhanced Hybrid Clustering Approach for Privacy Preservation (ECPS) in Big Data using Apache Spark Framework
Authors: Swaminathan Revathy , Thangavelu Arunkumar
Published: January 2019

In the era of big data mining, clustering is the organization of objects into groups based on applied similarity metrics. Among those metrics, the k-means approach is considered the most popular algorithm so far. As a result of the advancement in parallel processing and distributed computation, traditional techniques are not as efficient in computing the centroid when performing clustering. Consequently, this issue has an effect on privacy preservation when it comes to processing individuals’ sensitive information. Hence, an optimal clustering technique an enhanced hybrid clustering approach for privacy preservation in the context of big data perspective as well as in the context of the preservation of individual privacy protection from background knowledge attack is proposed in this article. The first approach depicts a combination of the ant colony optimization and firefly techniques for choosing the better centroid position with the data. The next approach is about combining the differential privacy algorithm, which uses the Laplace mechanism for augmenting additional noise to the individual’s data to make privacy preservation more robust. With the evolving trends and technologies, the amount of data being generated is increasing at an overwhelming rate. Thus, the proposed approaches are designed in such a way that they can be adapted to the changing needs of big data. The proposed algorithms are efficient when compared with the existing clustering algorithms and provide better performance by guaranteeing privacy. The implementation of the proposed works is done upon the Apache Spark with the big data framework.
Mental Health and its Relationship With Social Support in Iranian Women With High-Risk Sexual Behaviors
Authors: Amani Sharare , Ebrahimi Hossin , Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Sehhatie Shafaie Fahimeh
Published: January 2019

Objectives: The violence and prostitution are examples of the stressors in the women with high-risk sexual behaviors and can create a psychological crisis in these women. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of mental health with social support in the women with high -risk sexual behaviors visiting drop-in centers (DICs) in Tabriz, Iran, in 2017. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 149 women with high-risk sexual behaviors, visiting three DICs in Tabriz, Iran. The sampling was purposive and non-random. Data were collected using socio-demographic characteristics, social support (PRQ-part 85), and mental health (GHQ-28) questionnaires. A test of multivariate linear regression was performed to identify a number of mental health determinants and explanation of variance. Results: The mental health score was 50.7 (18.2), the score ranged from 0-84. The best status belonged to depression subscale [10.5 (7.1)] and the worst status belonged to social dysfunction subscale [14.6 (4.5)]. The mental health and its subscales had a significant relationship with social support (P<0.001, R= -0.55 to -0.33). The variables of social support, drug use, and spousal violence were able to predict 35.4% of mental health variance in the women. Conclusions: According to the results, appropriate strategies are needed to promote social protection and mental health in the women with high-risk sexual behaviors in order to reduce the sexually transmitted diseases especially HIV/AIDS in the society.
Shep RNA-Binding Capacity Is Required for Antagonism ofgypsyChromatin Insulator Activity
Authors: Chen Dahong , Brovkina Margarita , Matzat Leah H , Lei Elissa P
Published: January 2019

Chromatin insulators are DNA-protein complexes that regulate chromatin structure and gene expression in a wide range of organisms. These complexes also harbor enhancer blocking and barrier activities. Increasing evidence suggests that RNA molecules are integral components of insulator complexes. However, how these RNA molecules are involved in insulator function remains unclear. The Drosophila RNA-binding protein Shep associates with the gypsy insulator complex and inhibits insulator activities. By mutating key residues in the RRM domains, we generated a Shep mutant protein incapable of RNA-binding, and this mutant lost the ability to inhibit barrier activity. In addition, we found that one of many wildtype Shep isoforms but not RRM mutant Shep was sufficient to repress enhancer blocking activities. Finally, wildtype Shep rescued synthetic lethality of shep, mod(mdg4) double-mutants and developmental defects of shep mutant neurons, whereas mutant Shep failed to do so. These results indicate that the RNA-binding ability of Shep is essential for its ability to antagonize insulator activities and promote neuronal maturation. Our findings suggest that regulation of insulator function by RNA-binding proteins relies on RNA-mediated interactions.
Los olvidos de Adán
Authors: Kilito Abdelfattah , Ceballos Manuela
Published: January 2019

En “Los Olvidos de Adán,” texto que hace parte del libro La lengua de Adán (en francés, La Langue d’Adam, 1999), el escritor marroquí Abdelfattah Kilito se pregunta acerca de la lengua que hablaba Adán (el primer profeta del Islam) en el paraíso. También investiga si el primer poema del mundo es, como lo narran algunas fuentes clásicas de la tradición arabo-musulmana, una elegía que el mismo Adán escribió tras el asesinato de uno de sus hijos, Abel, a manos de su otro hijo, Caín. A través de una lectura de La epístola del perdón (Risālat al-Ghufrān) del pensador y poeta del siglo XI, Abū al-ʿAlāʾ al-Maʿarrī, Kilito explora la relación entre la posibilidad del lenguaje y el olvido. Presentamos aquí el texto de Kilito en traducción al español.