bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HUMAN CAPITAL FUNCTIONING IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OF THE NATIONAL ECONOMY
Authors: Radieva Maryna , Kolomiiets Viktoriia
Published: July 2019

The choice of the research subject is determined by the important and ambiguous role of human that is at the same time an object of getting goods and a factor of providing them in global and national economies. Human with its multilevel needs and priorities is an initial object of national economy efforts. World development tendencies of the new economy need using new development mechanisms of the human capital at decreasing transactional costs. The aim of the article is to analyze functioning components of the human capital in the strategic management of the national economy and to substantiate development instruments of the human capital at developing a management strategy in economy. A methodological base of the research work is fundamental positions of a theory of social economy, human development, economic growth, social-labor relations. The study offers the author definition of the notion “human capital” as an accumulated potential of citizens, expressed in their education, life experience, attitude, skills that may be used for improving current and future economic and social prosperity. A research result is the theoretical substantiation of the development of human capital, considered as a function of the strategic management of human resources, integrated with developing a management strategy of the national economy and each economic unit. Such development provides the growth of a market value of the human capital and results in quantity and quality changes in the activity of organizations. At the same time the increase of transactional costs takes place. The scientific understanding of using diverse instruments of the human capital development as an element of the general management strategy is developed in the research. There is used the three-level development system of the human capital, each level of which is characterized by specific problems and unequal readiness of human capital owners to participate in realization of tasks of an organization and correspondingly needs using different methods and instruments. The further research direction provides ordering and systematization of human capital functions in the management strategy of the national economy for determining human capital development mechanisms.
Mentalization mediates the relationship between borderline personality features and internalizing and externalizing psychopathology in adolescents
Authors: Norup Ditte Aagaard , Bo Sune
Published: July 2019

Background: Findings show that deficiencies in the ability to understand mental states are related to many forms of psychopathology. Mentalizing dysfunctions are suggested to be the core pathology underlying borderline personality disorder (BPD). Moreover, research suggests that BPD predicts psychopathology in general and findings display that diminished mentalization is related to a range of psychiatric disorders. As yet, no study has investigated the potential link between borderline personality features, mentalization and internalizing and externalizing psychopathology, and whether internalizing and externalizing psychopathology in BPD might be driven by impaired mentalization.

Objective: In a cross-sectional study, 109 patients referred to a child and adolescent psychiatric clinic were assessed with a battery of self-report instruments to asses borderline personality features, mentalization, and internalizing and externalizing psychopathology.

Method: Simple mediation model was used to examine whether mentalizing abilities mediated the relationship between borderline features and psychopathology in regard to externalizing and internalizing psychopathology in adolescents.

Results: The results indicated that mentalization mediated the relationship between borderline personality features and both externalizing and internalizing psychopathology in adolescents, indicating that mentalization underlie externalizing and internalizing psychopathology in adolescents with borderline personality features.

Conclusion: The current study is the first empirical study to evaluate mentalization as a mediating factor between adolescents who met full or sub-threshold criteria for BPD and psychopathology. Clinical implications are discussed.
Therapeutic reactance in adolescents: the psychometrics of the Therapeutic Reactance Scale in adolescents
Authors: Inman Richard A. , Sousa Ana Margarida , Cunha Diana , Moreira Paulo
Published: July 2019

Background: The Therapeutic Reactance Scale (TRS) is a classic measure of psychological reactance, yet only two studies have evaluated its factorial structure. Both proposed different multidimensional structures based on exploratory analyses. Not only is the factorial structure of the TRS unclear, but the scale has yet to be validated in adolescents.

Objective: This study aimed to test the factorial structure of the TRS in adolescents.

Methods: The authors conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and analyses of reliability and validity, with a sample of 1,344 adolescents.

Results: A four-factor model fits well to the data. Three of the four TRS dimensions (not susceptibility to influence, SI) were correlated with the Hong Psychological Reactance Scale (HPRS). These three dimensions were also correlated with novelty seeking, cooperativeness and persistence components of personality (Cloninger’s psychobiological model of personality), while SI showed a different pattern.

Conclusions: Overall, this study demonstrates that the TRS is a suitable and potentially useful tool for measuring reactance in adolescents, but the authors propose that practitioners may wish to consider excluding items pertaining to the SI dimension.
Job enrichment, organizational commitment, and intention to quit: the mediating role of employee engagement
Authors: Harisa Putri Wika , Ronald Setianan Andreas
Published: July 2019

In human resource accounting, personnel recruitment cost is an important issue. High turnover of employees triggers this charge. This research focused on the non-financial issue in employee turnovers for various professions. This study examines the effect of job enrichment, a self-development process on the working environment, to the employee’s engagement and organizational commitment, as well as the intention to quit in a different profession. The respondents of this research are 154 workers who have worked at their institution for at least two years. Using moderate regression analysis and testing two models, the first with linear regression, and the second with moderate regression analysis, this research shows that in the first model, job enrichment and employee engagement affect organizational commitment directly. However, in the second model, this study shows that employee engagement cannot moderate the effect of job enrichment on organizational commitment or the intention to quit. This research also finds that employee engagement affects negatively the intention to quit at work. The research findings strengthen the theory that a self-development process capable of generating employee engagement can assist management in controlling employee turnover rates.
Introducing project management system into enterprises of defense industry in Kazakhstan
Authors: Tulembayev Alizhan , Jumadilova Shynara , Adilova Aliya , Seidaliyeva Dina
Published: July 2019

Currently, active work is underway to introduce a project-based approach to the management of new product production processes. However, even if the need to implement project management is undeniable, the question arises of the pitfalls in implementing these innovations into the defense enterprises. Based on this, this work aims to determine organizational problems of implementing project management system into an enterprise of the defense industry. The following methods were used to collect data: in-depth interviews with employees of the company, taking a direct and key part in the PM processes; study of internal regulatory and other documentation on the research object; conducting a survey of employees. The research revealed the use of project management tools that are developed mostly in procurement management. The main problems of project management implementation are in scheduling, communications and integration management. The weaknesses in terms of the support provided for the implementation of projects by the enterprise include such areas as the availability of standard project management software and the organization of permanent trainings on project management. Based on the problems revealed, some recommendations are made for implementation of project management system in the enterprise of the defense industry.
Three-dimensional reconstruction of medical images based on 3D slicer
Authors: Zhang Xiaolin , Zhang Kexin , Pan Qiuling , Chang Jincai
Published: July 2019

The development of imaging has always been the top priority of modern medical advancement. There are also many methods for image processing in brain. 3D Slicer is an open source medical software that can reconstruct and visualize various medical image data in three dimensions. Three-dimensional reconstruction of blood vessels, hematomas, and nerve fiber tissue in brain can better assist doctors in planning operation and surgical implementation.
Revitalization Strategy for Historic Core of Ahmedabad
Authors: Sharma Utpal , Mistry Parag , Prajapati Reema
Published: July 2019

In India, dense historic urban settlements were developed with the intention of provision of spaces for adequate engagement of the people. Public squares and streets became important places of interaction. ‘Historic core,’ especially had public spaces meant for various socioeconomic groups. city is a blend of a harmonious past and a vivacious present. Number of historical and architecturally important buildings were built during Muslim and Moghul rules. One of the first built structures within the walled city is the fort, a citadel founded by sultan Ahmed Shah in 1411 with a huge public square in front, developed for purpose of procession and gathering. This precinct went through various layers of transformation in different eras and now have become vulnerabledue to congestion and encroachment. Though, a need for intervention was felt to bring back the lost vitality of the precinct, it was realized that a comprehensive approach would be the necessity. Conservation and sensitive development approach was taken to tackle this problem through pedestrianization of the precinct, re-routing of traffic and restoration of fort. Larger level traffic and parking issues were also considered beyond the site. Alternative use of fort as tourist information center was considered. Urban design guidelines were proposed for harmonious development in the surrounding area. This proposal was considered for funding under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JnNURM) and was implemented. Many issues were faced during implementation of project due to contextualization of informal commercial, religious and other cultural activities. Political, social and administrative factors also played immense role in implementation of proposal. Now since Ahmedabad has achieved the status of World Heritage City through UNESCO certification further implementation of this project will be relatively easy due to envisaged strong political and administrative support.
In Search of a Tool to Support Planning inside Large Cities: the SustaIn-LED Model
Authors: Cantafio Giuseppe Umberto , Ieromonachou Petros
Published: July 2019

The aim of the present study is to investigate the linkages between local economic development, innovation, and environmental sustainability inside urban areas. Can innovation affect the improvement of the quality of life inside urban areas? This research question comes from the consideration that usually innovation and growth in general are considered sources of conflict in affecting the livability of large cities. The objective of the paper is to design a model — the “SustaIn-Led” - to connect levels of environmental sustainability, quality of life, and economic development inside metropolitan areas, taking into account also innovation processes, activated by the innovation policies and by the knowledge economy. The study takes in consideration the 53 largest United States metropolitan areas with a population over 1 million, with a time series from the years 2000 through 2015. This has been done because of a two-fold reason: (1) the US among high-income countries is the one with the highest number of universities, patents, and citations; (2) several studies have shown that innovation occurs in large cities. The first part of the present study has carried out the identification of the variables to represent and significantly explain the phenomena – local economic development, innovation, and environmental sustainability – linked to the design of the SustaIn-LED model. Environmental sustainability in urban areas in this paper is represented by means of the Air Quality Index (AQI), while the number of workers synthetically quantifies local economic development. Correlation and multiple regression analyses are conducted in order to examine the relationship between the three main indicators. The multiple regressions for the year 2015 produced a low p-value, indicating that the predictors are significant in the regression analysis. Similar results of p-value are shown in all the years from 2000 to 2013. For 2015, the results showed that part of the variance in the measure of total workers of the metropolitan areas could be predicted by measures of innovation and air quality. Higher R² values have been registered for the years from 2000 through 2013. The development of the SustaIn-LED model could be utilized in urban regeneration processes to help in the design of new urban planning policies inside large cities by means of a better comprehension of environmental and economic implications caused by the implementation of innovation policies.
Surface grafting of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) cross-linked with glutaraldehyde (GA) to improve resistance to fouling of aromatic polyamide thin film composite reverse osmosis membranes using municipal membrane bioreactor effluent
Authors: Kasongo Godwill , Steenberg Chad , Morris Bradley , Kapenda Gracia , Jacobs Nurah , Aziz Mujahid
Published: July 2019

Membrane surface modification is a favourable method to handle fouling during wastewater treatment processes. In this study, grafting of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) through cross-link with Glutaraldehyde was applied to a thin film composite reverse osmosis membrane to enhance the resistance to flux decline. The analytical analyses attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy were performed to evaluate the impact of surface modification. Biofouling using Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacterial solution and fouling tests using a bench scale reverse osmosis system with a simulated secondary effluent from a membrane bioreactor were used to assess the impact of the surface modification initiated on antifouling properties of the membrane. It was shown that the morphological structure and the chemical properties of the membrane were altered, whereas the pure water flux slightly decreased after modification. Although a slight decrease of salt rejection was observed, the membrane resistance to fouling improved and the biofouling model used revealed the anti-biofouling capacity of the membrane. The flux decline and flux recovery ratios improved with an increase in PVA concentration. The sterilization ratio increased from 33.8 to 36.8% and the pure water flux decline decreased from 46.04 to 25.94% after modification.
Dose-dependent Effects of Esmolol-epinephrine Combination Therapy in Myocardial Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Oyama Yoshimasa , Blaskowsky Justin , Eckle Tobias
Published: July 2019

Background:

Animal studies on cardiac arrest found that a combination of epinephrine with esmolol
attenuates post-resuscitation myocardial dysfunction. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that esmololepinephrine
combination therapy would be superior to a reported cardioprotective esmolol therapy alone in a
mouse model of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion (IR) injury.

Methods:

C57BL/6J mice were subjected to 60 min of myocardial ischemia and 120 min of reperfusion. Mice
received either saline, esmolol (0.4 mg/kg/h), epinephrine (0.05 mg/kg/h), or esmolol combined with epinephrine
(esmolol: 0.4 mg/kg/h or 0.8 mg/kg/h and epinephrine: 0.05 mg/kg/h) during reperfusion. After reperfusion, infarct
sizes in the area-at-risk and serum cardiac troponin-I levels were determined. Hemodynamic effects of drugs
infused were determined by measurements of heart rate (HR) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) via a carotid
artery catheter.

Results:

Esmolol during reperfusion resulted in robust cardioprotection (esmolol vs. saline: 24.3±8% vs. 40.6±3%
infarct size), which was abolished by epinephrine co-administration (38.1±15% infarct size). Increasing the esmolol
dose, however, was able to restore esmolol-cardioprotection in the epinephrine-esmolol (18.6±8% infarct
size) co-treatment group with improved hemodynamics compared to the esmolol group (epinephrine-esmolol vs.
esmolol: MAP 80 vs. 75 mmHg, HR 452 vs. 402 beats/min).

Conclusion:

These results confirm earlier studies on esmolol-cardioprotection from myocardial IR-injury and
demonstrate that a dose optimized epinephrine-esmolol co-treatment maintains esmolol-cardioprotection with
improved hemodynamics compared to esmolol treatment alone. These findings might have implications for current
clinical practice in hemodynamically unstable patients suffering from myocardial ischemia.
Synthesis of Carbon Quantum Dots with Special Reference to Biomass as a Source - A Review
Authors: Thangaraj Baskar , Solomon Pravin R. , Ranganathan Srinivasan
Published: July 2019

Quantum dots (QDs) have received much attention due to their extraordinary optical application in
medical diagnostics, optoelectronics and in energy storage devices. The most conventional QDs are based on
semiconductors that comprise heavy metals whose applications are limited due to toxicity and potential environmental
hazard. Of late, researchers are focusing on carbon-based quantum dots, which have recently emerged as a
new family of zero-dimensional nanostructured materials. They are spherical in shape with a size below 10 nm
and exhibit excitation-wavelength-dependent photoluminescence (PL). Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have
unique optical, photoluminescence and electrochemical properties. They are environment-friendly with low toxicity
as compared to toxic heavy metal quantum dots. Generally, CQDs are derived from chemical precursor materials,
but recently researchers have focused their attention on the production of CQDs from waste biomass materials
due to the economic and environmental exigency. In this review, recent advances in the synthesis of CQDs
from waste biomass materials, functionalization and modulation of CQDs and their potential application of biosensing
are focused. This review also brings out some challenges and future perspectives for developing smart
biosensing gadgets based on CQDs.
Implementation of Bagged SVM Ensemble Model for Classification of Epileptic States Using EEG
Authors: Kaur Arshpreet , Verma Karan , Bhondekar Amol P. , Shashvat Kumar
Published: July 2019

Background:

To decipher EEG (Electroencephalography), intending to locate inter-ictal and
ictal discharges for supporting the diagnoses of epilepsy and locating the seizure focus, is a critical
task. The aim of this work was to find how the ensemble model distinguishes between two different
sets of problems which are group 1: inter-ictal and ictal, group 2: controlled and inter-ictal using approximate
entropy as a parameter.

Methods:

This work addresses the classification problem for two groups; Group 1: “inter-ictal vs.
ictal” for which case 1(C-E), and case 2(D-E) are included and Group 2; “activity from controlled vs.
inter-ictal activity” considering four cases which are case 3 (A-C), case 4(B-C), case 5 (A-D) and case
6(B-D) respectively. To divide the EEG into sub-bands, DWT (Discrete Wavelet Transform) was used
and approximate Entropy was extracted out of all the five sub-bands of EEG for each case. Bagged
SVM was used to classify the different groups considered.

Results:

The highest accuracy for Group 1 using Bagged SVM Ensemble model for case 1 was
observed to be 96.83% with testing data; which was similar to 97% achieved by using training data.
For case 2 (D-E) 93.92% accuracy with training and 84.83% with testing data were obtained. For
Group 2, there was a large disparity between SVM and Bagged Ensemble model, where 76%, 81.66%,
72.835% and 71.16% for case 3, case 4, case 5 and case 6 were obtained. While for training data set,
92.87%, 91.74%, 92% and 92.64% accuracy was attained, respectively. The results obtained by SVM
for Group 2 showed a huge difference from the highest accuracy achieved by bagged SVM for both the
training and the test data.

Conclusion:

Bagged Ensemble model outperformed SVM model for every case with a huge difference
with both training as well as test dataset for Group 2 and marginally better for Group 1.
Simvastatin and ML141 Decrease Intracellular Streptococcus pyogenes Infection
Authors: Caffo Lindy , Sneed Bria L. , Burcham Caroline , Reed Katie , Hahn Nathan C. , Bell Samantha , Downham Olivia , Evans Melissa D. , Fullenkamp Christopher R. , Drinnon Teague K. , Bishop Derron , Bruns Heather A. , McKillip John L. , Sammelson Robert E. , McDowell Susan A.
Published: July 2019

Background :

Recurrent pharyngotonsillitis due to Streptococcus pyogenes develops regardless of whether infecting strains are resistant or susceptible to first-line antimicrobials. Causation for recurrent infection is associated with the use of first-line antimicrobials that fail to penetrate deep tissue and host cell membranes, enabling intracellular S. pyogenes to survive throughout repeated rounds of antimicrobial therapy.

Objective:

To determine whether simvastatin, a therapeutic approved for use in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, and ML141, a first-in-class small molecule inhibitor with specificity for human CDC42, limit host cell invasion by S. pyogenes.

Methods:

Assays to assess host cell invasion, bactericidal activity, host cell viability, actin depolymerization, and fibronectin binding were performed using the RAW 267.4 macrophage cell line and Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVEC) infected with S. pyogenes (90-226) and treated with simvastatin, ML141, structural analogs of ML141, or vehicle control.

Results:

Simvastatin and ML141 decreased intracellular infection by S. pyogenes in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibition by simvastatin persisted following 1 h washout whereas inhibition by ML141 was reversed. During S. pyogenes infection, actin stress fibers depolymerized in vehicle control treated cells, yet remained intact in simvastatin and in ML141 treated cells. Consistent with the previous characterization of ML141, simvastatin decreased host cell binding to fibronectin. Structural analogs of ML141, designated as the RSM series, decreased intracellular infection through non-cytotoxic, nonbactericidal mechanisms.

Conclusion:

Our findings demonstrate the potential of repurposing simvastatin and of developing CDC42-targeted therapeutics for eradicating intracellular S. pyogenes infection to break the cycle of recurrent infection through a host-directed approach.
Green and Simple Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles by Aqueous Extract of Perovskia abrotanoides: Characterization, Optimization and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Mirsadeghi Somayeh , Koudehi Masoumeh F. , Rajabi Hamid R. , Pourmortazavi Seied M.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Herein, we report the biosynthesis procedure to prepare silver nanoparticles as
reduction and capping agents with the aqueous plant extract of Perovskia abrotanoides.

Methods:

The therapeutic application of silver nanoparticles entirely depends on the size and shape of
the nanoparticles therefore, their control during the synthesis procedure is so important. The effects of
synthesis factors, for example, silver ion concentration, the mass of plant extract, reaction time and extraction
temperature, on the size of silver particles were considered and optimized. Several analytical
methods were used for the characterization of silver NPs including FT-IR and UV–Vis spectrophotometer,
XRD and SEM.

Results:

The results showed that the mean size of the silver particles was about 51 nm. Moreover, the
antibacterial properties of biosynthesized silver NPs were investigated by the minimum inhibitory concentration,
minimum bactericidal concentration, and Well-diffusion tests. The minimum inhibitory concentration/
minimum bactericidal concentration values of silver NPs and aqueous plant extract versus
Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus) and Gram-negative bacteria (E. coli)
were 3.03/0.00, 1.20/0.01, 3.06/0.00, 0.98/1.04, 1.00/0.05 and 1.30/0.03 (mg/mL), respectively.

Conclusion:

The antimicrobial activity study displayed that the synthesized silver nanoparticles by
plant extract have better antimicrobial properties compared to aqueous plant extract of Perovskia abrotanoides.
In vitro Lipolysis as a Tool for the Establishment of IVIVC for Lipid-Based Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Verma Ravinder , Kaushik Deepak
Published: July 2019

:

In vitro lipolysis has emerged as a powerful tool in the development of in vitro in vivo correlation for Lipid-based Drug Delivery System (LbDDS). In vitro lipolysis possesses the ability to mimic the assimilation of LbDDS in the human biological system. The digestion medium for in vitro lipolysis commonly contains an aqueous buffer media, bile salts, phospholipids and sodium chloride. The concentrations of these compounds are defined by the physiological conditions prevailing in the fasted or fed state. The pH of the medium is monitored by a pH-sensitive electrode connected to a computercontrolled pH-stat device capable of maintaining a predefined pH value via titration with sodium hydroxide. Copenhagen, Monash and Jerusalem are used as different models for in vitro lipolysis studies. The most common approach used in evaluating the kinetics of lipolysis of emulsion-based encapsulation systems is the pH-stat titration technique. This is widely used in both the nutritional and the pharmacological research fields as a rapid screening tool. Analytical tools for the assessment of in vitro lipolysis include HPLC, GC, HPTLC, SEM, Cryo TEM, Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) for the characterization of the lipids and colloidal phases after digestion of lipids. Various researches have been carried out for the establishment of IVIVC by using in vitro lipolysis models. The current publication also presents an updated review of various researches in the field of in vitro lipolysis.
Reduction in the Ratio of Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol to Highdensity Lipoprotein Cholesterol is Associated with Increased Risks of Hemorrhagic Transformation in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Yanan , Wei Chenchen , Song Quhong , Liu Junfeng , Cheng Yajun , Li Yisong , Wu Bo , Liu Ming
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose:

Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is a potentially serious
complication in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Whether the ratio of low-density lipoprotein
cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C/HDL-C) is associated with HT
remains unclear.

Methods:

Ischemic stroke patients within 7 days of stroke onset from January 2016 to November
2017 were included in this study. Lipid profiles were measured within 24h after admission. HT
was determined by a second computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging within 7 days
after admission. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association
between LDL-C/HDL-C and HT.

Results:

We enrolled 1239 patients with AIS (788 males; mean age, 64 ± 15 years), of whom 129
(10.4%) developed HT. LDL-C/HDL-C was significantly lower on admission in patients with HT
than those without HT (2.00 ± 0.89 vs. 2.25 ± 1.02, P=0.009). The unadjusted odds ratio (OR) of
low LDL-C/HDL-C for HT was 2.07 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.42-3.01, P＜0.001). After
adjustment for possible confounders, lower LDL-C/HDL-C (≤1.52) was significantly associated
with HT (OR 1.53, 95% CI: 1.02-2.31, P=0.046). Similar results were observed between lower
LDL-C (≤ 4 mmol/L) and HT (OR 4.17, 95% CI: 1.25-13.90, P=0.02). However, no significant
association was found between HT and high HDL-C, low triglycerides or low total cholesterol.

Conclusion:

Lower LDL-C/HDL-C and LDL-C were significantly associated with increased risk
of HT after AIS. Further investigations are warranted to confirm these findings and then optimize
lipid management in stroke patients with lower LDL/HDL-C or LDL-C.
Cardiovascular Risk in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Mechanistic Links: From Pathophysiology to Treatment
Authors: Fragoulis George E. , Panayotidis Ismini , Nikiphorou Elena
Published: July 2019

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory arthritis. Inflammation, however, can spread beyond the joints to involve other organs. During the past few years, it has been well recognized that RA associates with increased risk for cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD) compared with the general population. This seems to be due not only to the increased occurrence in RA of classical CVD risk factors and comorbidities like smoking, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and others but also to the inflammatory burden that RA itself carries. This is not unexpected given the strong links between inflammation and atherosclerosis and CVD. It has been shown that inflammatory cytokines which are present in abundance in RA play a significant role in every step of plaque formation and rupture. Most of the therapeutic regimes used in RA treatment seem to offer significant benefits to that end. However, more studies are needed to clarify the effect of these drugs on various parameters, including the lipid profile. Of note, although pharmacological intervention significantly helps reduce the inflammatory burden and therefore the CVD risk, control of the so-called classical risk factors is equally important. Herein, we review the current evidence for the underlying pathogenic mechanisms linking inflammation with CVD in the context of RA and reflect on the possible impact of treatments used in RA.
The Effect of Viola Odorata L. Oil for Fever in Children: A Randomized Triple-blinded Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Tafazoli Vahid , Shahriari Mahdi , Heydari Mojtaba , Nikbakht Hosein Ali , Zarshenaas Mohammad M. , Nimrouzi Majid
Published: July 2019

Introduction:

Finding non-systemic antipyretic option in cancer patients who simultaneously
receive several other drugs seems be logical. This study was designed to evaluate complementary therapy
with Viola odorata L. oil for fever control in febrile neutropenic children.

Methods and Materials:

In a randomized placebo controlled clinical trial, 41 febrile children were divided
into two groups. Children in the active drug group received viola oil (20 drops) to be rubbed on the
peripheral margin of the patient umbilicus. Primary outcome measure of the study was the mean axillary
temperature in the 30, 60, and 240 minutes after the intervention.

Results:

The mean temperature reduced significantly in the viola group after 30 minutes of administration
(p =0.005), while there was no significant change in the placebo group (p =1.00). The number of patients
who received paracetamol as the rescue treatment was significantly lower in the viola group than
that in the placebo group (5 vs. 17, p =0.001).

Conclusion:

The results of our study showed the safety and efficacy of complementary therapy with Viola
odorata L. oil for fever control in febrile neutropenic children during hospital course.
Airway Obstruction in a Cancer Patient: Is it Always Cancer?
Authors: Hinds Nicholas , Borah Amit , Morrow Kathy , Hoag Jeffrey , Abramian Emil
Published: July 2019

:

Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) is a common hypersensitivity to Aspergillus sp. that is well described in the literature. The populations most susceptible to developing this reaction are asthmatics and patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). The presenting symptoms can vary as ABPA is rarely described in otherwise normal individuals, however, in patients with an underlying familial predisposition to atopy, it can be seen. This case illustrates the importance of how ABPA can affect a patient who does not fit into a typical phenotypic profile.
A Prospective Study of the Clinical and Demographic Profile of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients Receiving Antidiabetic Drug Combinations
Authors: Gadgade Akash , Kudgi Ashok S. , Kamath Ashwin , Kamath Priyanka , Adhikari Prabha , Revappala Nishith S. , Hadigal Sanjay , Natarajan Srikant , Shenoy Nandita , Chowta Mukta N.
Published: July 2019

Background:

The specific treatment recommendations for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)
differ based on a particular guideline. The goal of pharmacotherapy is to achieve the target HbA1c and
fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels to avoid disease complications.

Objective:

To evaluate the profile of T2DM patients on different antidiabetic treatment regimens and
the factors leading to dose escalation in these patients.

Methods:

A prospective descriptive study was conducted at Kasturba Medical College Hospital, Mangalore,
a tertiary care teaching hospital, over a period of one year. The study population comprised of
patients with T2DM for ≥5 years. The demographic and clinical data were collected during the baseline
and follow-up visits.

Results:

Of the 119 patients studied, 59.7% were males; 32.8% were ≥65 years of age. A significant
decrease in the fasting blood glucose (FBG) on follow-up was seen (p = 0.028) in patients on sulfonylurea
and metformin combination. A significant decrease in the glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) was
seen in patients on sulfonylurea with metformin and pioglitazone (p = 0.011); sulfonylurea with metformin,
pioglitazone, and sitagliptin (p = 0.026); and metformin with insulin (p = 0.001). Patients who
received dose escalation had a longer duration of the disease (p = 0.042), higher FBG (p = 0.039) and
HbA1c (p = 0.05).

Conclusion:

A combination of metformin with sulfonylurea was the preferred first-line treatment; insulin
was added when HbA1c was >9. Patients who received dose escalation had a longer duration of
the disease and higher FBG and HbA1c.
Drug Delivery Using Theranostics: An Overview of its Use, Advantages and Safety Assessment
Authors: Chiari-Andréo Bruna Galdorfini , Abuçafy Marina Paiva , Manaia Eloísa Berbel , da Silva Bruna Lallo , Rissi Nathalia Cristina , Oshiro-Júnior João Augusto , Chiavacci Leila Aparecida
Published: July 2019

Following progress in modern medicine, advances have been made in diagnosis and
treatment tools. Multifunctional nanomaterials that combine therapeutic and diagnostic functions in a
single nanostructured complex are known as ‘theranostics’. To obtain a theranostic, a single particle,
usually a nanoparticle, is manufactured to contain a therapeutic element (such as a drug) coupled
with an imaging element. There are many kinds of nanoparticles available today that can be used to
obtain theranostics, such as liposomes, cyclodextrin, conjugates and complexes, dendrimers, vesicles,
micelles, core-shell particles, microbubbles, and carbon nanotubes. Because these materials
interact with and should have effects on biological systems, their use may overcome health challenges.
Considering the novelty and importance of this subject, this review aims to present general
information about theranostics and discuss the safety and presumable toxicity of these constructs. In
addition, we describe the methodologies that can be used to assess the safety of theranostics. This
review is based on a literature search on theranostics, using the Web of Science, PubMed and Science
Direct as the main sources of information. The period of publication was not delimited due to
the scarcity of information and publications on this topic. Although many promising theranostic systems
have been investigated and may revolutionise therapy, when designing new tools, researchers
need to find alternatives to minimise their toxicity. The study of the toxicology and biocompatibility
of theranostics needs to be continued, including clinical studies, with the aim of benefitting many
patients in the future.
Recent Progress in Nano-electronic Devices Based on EBL and IBL
Authors: Pan Yusheng , Xu Ke
Published: July 2019

Electron beam lithography (EBL) and ion beam lithography (IBL) are extremely promising
nanofabrication techniques for building nano-electronic devices due to their outstanding physical
and electronic properties. In this review, an overview of EBL and IBL and a comparison of nanoelectronics
fabricated based on four types of materials, namely graphene, ZnO, TiO2 and Ge, are presented.
In each type of material, numerous practical examples are also provided in the illustration.
Later, the strengths and weaknesses of EBL and IBL are presented in details. Finally, the similarities
and differences between the two techniques are discussed and concluded.
Coenzyme Q10 Attenuates Cisplatin-induced Nephrotoxicity Through Counteracting Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Bash Hala S. , Rabeea Ihsan S.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Cisplatin is an anticancer drug used in the management of solid tumors,
however, dose-related nephrotoxicity is one of its major problems. Agents having antioxidants, antiinflammatory
and/or antiapoptotic activities may thus represent potential therapeutic options to avoid
cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Among these agents, coenzyme Q10 has several pharmacological
properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and/or anti-apoptotic effects.

Objective:

The current study aimed to examine whether coenzyme Q10 could attenuate cisplatininduced
nephrotoxicity or not.

Methods:

24 adult rats were randomly separated into three groups (8 rats per group). The first one
was the control group, rats receiving vehicle (olive oil) intraperitoneally. The second group was Cisplatin
treated group, rats were receiving 13 mg/kg of Cisplatin intraperitoneally as a single dose. The
third group (Cisplatin + Coenzyme Q10), rats were receiving 13 mg/kg as a single intraperitoneal dose
of Cisplatin and coenzyme Q10 daily for six consecutive days (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally).

Results:

Cisplatin caused significant increases in serum creatinine and severe histological lesions.
Cisplatin treated group also showed a significant elevation in renal malondialdehyde concentration as
a marker of oxidative stress; renal tumor necrosis factor-alpha concentration as a marker of inflammation;
and Kidney injury molecule -1 concentration. Coenzyme Q10 significantly attenuated cisplatininduced
nephrotoxicity through lowering serum creatinine and improving nephrotoxicity histological
scores. Coenzyme Q10 also significantly reduced the renal concentration of MDA, TNF-α and KIM-1
relative to cisplatin treated group.

Conclusions:

Coenzyme Q10 has a potential nephroprotective effect against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity
that was demonstrated by biochemical and histopathological analysis.
Development and Characterization of Glipizide Loaded Sustained Release Nanoparticles
Authors: Deshmukh Rutuja , Waghulde Mrunal , Mishra Satyendra , Naik Jitendra
Published: July 2019

Background:

Treating the disease like diabetes is essential due to its wide range of spreading and heredity issues. Glipizide is the commonly used drug for the treatment of diabetes. Glipizide loaded sustained release nanoparticles have been developed to avoid repeated dosing.

Objective:

The study aimed to develop glipizide-loaded sustained release nanoparticles and characterize them for different studies.

Methods:

The aim of the present study was to develop glipizide-loaded sustained release nanoparticles using different polymers by the solvent evaporation method. The polymers; Eudragit (RS 100) in combination with Polycaprolactone (PCL) were used to encapsulate glipizide. Optimization of all parameters was performed as per Design Expert software by utilizing a 32 full factorial design. The developed nanoparticles were characterized using Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and in-vitro drug release study.

Results:

FE-SEM showed that the surface morphology of nanoparticles was smooth and spherical as well as in an oval shape. FTIR shows there is no interaction between polymers and drug. XRD results showed that the crystallinity of pure glipizide reduced from 89.5 to 56.7% when converted into sustained release nanoparticles formulation. Sustained drug release over the period of 12 h was observed due to well encapsulation of glipizide by the polymers.

Conclusion:

Glipizide loaded nanoparticles were developed with good encapsulation efficiency using a combination of two different biocompatible polymers. The drug release behavior showed that they can be used to develop the sustained release formulation to reduce the side effect caused by over drug uptake as compared to the conventional formulation.
Magyarországi sporttevékenységet végző vállalkozások kiegészítő mellékletének összehasonlító elemzése az általános rész információi alapján
Authors: Kerezsi Dóra , Bács Zoltán , Böcskei Elvira , Zéman Zoltán , Tarnóczi Tibor , Fenyves Veronika
Published: July 2019

A sportgazdaság GDP-hez való hozzájárulása az Európai Uniós tagállamokban az 5%-hoz, míg Magyarországon az 1-1,5%-hoz közelít. Ez az arány vélhetően növekedni fog, melyhez a társasági adó támogatások jó alapot biztosítanak. A fent említettek alátámasztják azt, hogy érdekes és szükséges kutatási terület a sporttevékenységeket végző vállalatok elemzése Kutatásunkban azt vizsgáljuk, hogy a vállalatok által elkészített kiegészítő mellékletek tartalmazzák-e azokat az információkat, amelyek segítségével a partner vállalatokra vonatkozó szükséges pénzügyi ismeretek megszerezhetők. A vizsgálathoz a 931-es TEÁOR számú, főtevékenységként Sporttevékenységet megadó vállalatokat kiegészítő mellékleteit használtuk fel. Az elemzést az R statisztikai rendszer különböző csomagjainak a felhasználásával végeztük. Szövegbányászat segítségével azt vizsgáljuk, hogy a kiegészítő mellékletek milyen mértékben biztosítják azokat az információkat, amelyek a mérleg és az eredmény-kimutatás megfelelő értelmezéséhez, használatához elengedhetetlenül szükségesek lennének.
Effeciency of Initial-I Stage Generalized Periodontitis Treatment Among Medical University Students According to Indicators of Oral Cavity Prooxidant-antioxidant System
Authors: Pavliuk Tetiana , Rozhko Mykola
Published: July 2019

Periodontal diseases are one of the most important problems in dentistry, due to its very high dissemination. Inflammatory processes in periodontal tissues are more common among young people, which, in the future, without adequate treatment lead to irreversible changes in structure of cellular bone. This causes development of new effective therapeutic complexes aimed at eliminating etiopathogenetic factors development of periodontal tissues inflammatory diseases and the targeted influence on the pathological processes in these tissues.

The objective of the study was to analyze the efficiency of suggested initial-I stage generalized periodontitis treatment among second-year students of medical university.

Materials and methods. To achieve this goal, we examined and treated 50 students with initial-I stage of generalized periodontitis without somatic pathology, which were divided into two groups, depending on treatment method. First group included 25 students who received advanced treatment; second group included 25 students, who received usual treatment. Control group consisted of 20 clinically healthy students. The state of oral cavity prooxidant-antioxidant system was determined by the level of malone dialdehyde (MDA), diene conjugates (DK), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, glutathione-S-transferase (G-ST), and the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPO).

Results and discussion. Periodontal diseases, namely, initial-I stage of GP, are accompanied by an imbalance of oral cavity prooxidant-antioxidant system indicators. This is confirmed by an increase number of MDA and DK (p<0.001), and a decrease in SOD, G-ST, GPO (p<0.001) compared to clinically healthy students.

Conclusions. The results of GP treatment in first group were significantly better in relation to the second one (p<0.05), indicating the effectiveness of the proposed advanced treatment of initial-I stage of GP.
Dynamics of Indicators of Structural and Functional State of the Heart in the Post-Infarction Period Depending on the Presence of Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: Levandovska Khrystyna
Published: July 2019

Echocardiographic indicators in decompensated heart failure demonstrate a high prevalence of structural and hemodynamic abnormalities. In the patients with decompensated heart failure in the early and late post-infarction period, echocardiographic indicators were found to significantly differ from those recorded in the patients without heart failure. Thus, reduced ejection fraction, increased end-diastolic volume and end-diastolic dimension indicate left ventricular systolic dysfunction and left ventricular cavity dilation. Since echocardiography of the heart and the pulmonary artery enables real-time estimation of cardiac filling, signs of systolic dysfunction and pulmonary congestion, it may serve as a predictor of decompensated heart failure development in the early and late post-infarction period.

The objective of the research was to determine the main echocardiographic indicators in terms of rapid monitoring of deterioration in the main parameters of left ventricular overload for early diagnosis of decompensated heart failure, as well as structural and geometric remodeling of left ventricular myocardium in the early and late post-infarction period.

Materials and methods. There were examined 160 patients with acute myocardial infarction. Depending on the development of decompensated heart failure in the early and late post-infarction period, the patients were divided into two subgroups being homogeneous by age and gender.

Results. The results obtained indicated significant hemodynamic changes in the patients with decompensated heart failure in the post-infarction period. They included significantly lower values of ejection fraction indicating left ventricular systolic dysfunction and the signs of left ventricular cavity dilation as evidenced by the increase in left ventricular end-diastolic volume and end-diastolic dimension. The tendency for an increase in left ventricular posterior wall thickness and interventricular septal thickness, as well as left ventricular myocardial mass, left ventricular myocardial mass index and left ventricular radius to wall thickness ratio indicated concentric left ventricular remodeling.

Conclusions. Modern management of patients with decompensated heart failure should be guided by an objective value of left ventricular ejection fraction as it plays a key role in selecting management strategy for this cohort of patients since a significant reduction in this parameter indicates cardiac decompensation. Pulmonary artery pressure and concentric left ventricular hypertrophy play a significant role in cardiac failure development as well.