bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entropy-based analysis and regionalization of annual precipitation variation in Iran during 1960–2010 using ensemble empirical mode decomposition
Authors: Roushangar Kiyoumars , Alizadeh Farhad
Published: February 2018

This study proposes an ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD)-based multiscale entropy (EME) approach. The proposed model is used to analyze and gage variability of the annual precipitation series and spatially classify raingauges in Iran. For this end, historical annual precipitation data during 1960–2010 from 31 raingauges are decomposed using EEMD. Decomposed series of precipitation series present different periods and trends. Next, entropy concept is applied to the components obtained from EEMD to measure dispersion of multiscale components. It is observed that entropy values of intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) 1–5 and residual component show different behaviors. IMF 5 and residual components have highest values of entropy, whereas IMF 3 and 4 present highest entropy variation among all components. Based on spatial distribution of EME values, EME 3 and 1 have a downward variation from north to south, whereas EME 1 presents increasing variation. Spatial classification of raingauges is performed using EME values as input data to self-organizing map (SOM) and k-means clustering techniques. Finally, spatial structure of annual precipitation variation is investigated. It is observed that EME values have a downward trend with latitude, whereas it is observed that EME shows an upward relationship with longitude in Iran.
Understanding public perception, knowledge and behaviour for water quality management of the river Yamuna in India
Authors: Tarannum Fawzia , Kansal Arun , Sharma Prateek
Published: February 2018

The paper aims to understand how the public perceives river water quality and related risks and behaviour. Using the stratified semi-purposive sampling process, the study explores the perception of people residing along the river Yamuna in India. The method applied involved a structured questionnaire survey of 2706 respondents and four focused group discussions with people residing within two kilometres of the river bank. Non-parametric tests such as Kruskal Wallis, Mann Whitney U-test and One-Sample Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test were used to analyse the data. The findings suggest that the majority of the respondents formulate their perceptions using non-scientific methods like sensorial and heuristics. Perception on sources of pollution is shaped by personal experiences and people do not perceive diffused sources of pollution that affect river water quality. Respondents attributed the pollution in the river to anthropogenic activities and their risk perception was found to be linked to their direct dependence on the river for their daily needs. The paper suggests behavioural change strategies to focus on social, governance, and technological drivers.
Sequencing batch reactor process for the removal of nitrogen from anaerobically treated domestic wastewater
Authors: Pelaz L. , Gómez A. , Letona A. , Garralón G. , Fdz-Polanco M.
Published: February 2018

This work presents the performance of a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) system used as a means of removing nitrogen from domestic wastewater containing a low chemical oxygen demand (COD) to nitrogen ratio due to pre-treatment with an anaerobic reactor. The aim of the work was to determine the feasibility of this system for the removal of nitrogen from the domestic wastewater. An SBR with a working volume of 5 L was investigated at different cycle times of 12, 8 and 6 h, at 18 °C. The efficiency of the SBR varied together with the duration of the cycle, where the optimum performance was seen in the 6 h cycle with the anoxic–aerobic–anoxic sequence. Due to the low quantity of organic matter present in the domestic wastewater after the anaerobic treatment, an additional supply of external carbon was necessary before the second anoxic stage. The removal efficiencies obtained were: 98% for total Kjeldahl nitrogen, 84% for total nitrogen and 77% for soluble COD. The reactor was thus shown to be viable, and it was concluded that this process may be successfully applied as a post-treatment for the removal of nitrogen from anaerobically treated domestic wastewater.
К проблеме содержания деятельности психологической службы в различных образовательных организациях
Authors: Tsvetkova Larisa A. , Volkova Elena N. , Korzhova Elena Yu. , Miklyaeva Anastasiya V.
Published: February 2018

Introduction. Goals, aims, and main directions of psychological service activities in educational institutions need revising. Uniform standards for psychological service, meeting the new realities of modern education, should be developed. The present study reveals representations about the content of professional activities, its goals and types in educational psychologists currently working in various educational institutions.

Materials and Methods. The study involved 2135 educational psychologists working in various educational institutions: (a) kindergartens, (b) schools, (c) psycho-pedagogical, medical, and social assistance centers, (d) boarding schools, (e) establishments of additional education, (f) and vocational schools. The study employed online survey for the collection of empirical data.

Results. The findings showed that the educational psychologists’ representations about goals and means of their own professional activities depended on characteristics of educational institutions where they worked (goals and objectives of an organization, features of its student body, organizational aspects of an educational psychologist’s work, etc.). Regardless the field of activity, the educational psychologists implemented the following labour functions: (a) psychodiagnostics, (b) correctional developing and educational work, and (c) psychological counseling. The educational psychologists supported the implementation of educational programs and the expertise of the educational environment much less frequently.

Discussion. The obtained data demonstrate heterogeneity in the educational psychologists’ representations about goals of their professional activities at the present stage of the development of psychological service in educational institutions. Characteristics of educational service and also organizational conditions of professional activities affect the content of the representations. Future work will involve creating the concept of psychological service in education generalizing the needs of various educational institutions. The findings can be readily used for supplementing the Concept of the Development of Psychological Service in the Education System in the Russian Federation by 2025 by the variable models of educational psychologists’ professional activities in various educational institutions.
Исследование с помощью вызванных потенциалов функциональной эквивалентности механизмов восприятия и генерации эмоций
Authors: Alekseeva Dar'ya S. , Ermakov Pavel N. , Babenko Vitalii V. , Yavna Denis V.
Published: February 2018

Introduction. Many functional systems of the brain confirm the hypothesis of functional equivalence. However, the mechanisms involved in emotion perception and reproduction still remain an open question. This study attempts to define and compare the dynamics of the activity of brain structures when perceiving and generating emotions. The novelty of the research lies in comparing the dynamics of evoked activity when the same respondents perceive and generate emotions within a single experiment.

Methods. The respondents were shown photographs of various facial expressions and also objects generating various emotions. The respondents had to detect emotions from photographs of facial expressions, and also recognize emotions which the objects generated. The answers made it possible to group and average EEG fragments to distinguish evoked potentials (neutral, positive, and negative faces and objects). EEG was recorded from 128 derivations, which allowed determining the trajectories of the foci of maximal activity using sLORETA. The responses to faces and objects of the same emotional valence were compared.

Results. For the first time the responses to the visual stimuli expressing and generating emotion were recorded and compared within a single experiment. The N170 wave activity displayed the differences between evoked responses to different facial expressions and objects with different emotional valence. The analysis of the trajectories of the foci of maximal activity when developing reactions to faces and objects showed no crossing.

Discussion. The experiment should have parted the dynamics of the compared responses. Assuming the existence of a mirror mechanism, the coincidence of the processes is possible only at a certain stage in this case. The analysis of the results demonstrated no crossing for the compared processes.

Conclusion. The findings showed no signs of the functional equivalence of the mechanisms for emotion recognition and emotion generation.
Особенности психологического статуса женщин перименопаузального возраста с признаками климактерического синдрома
Authors: Lebedev Dmitrii A. , Chernositov Aleksandr V. , Botasheva Tat'yana L.
Published: February 2018

Introduction. Women’s health is an important goal of modern medical, psychological, and social research. Unfavorable external and internal negative factors, which worsen psychoemotional status and lead to psychophysiological disadaptation, and also the increase in life expectancy determine the importance of the issue. Perimenopausal women with the so-called climacteric syndrome are at special risk. The novelty of the research lies in studying psychological characteristics of perimenopause complicated with climacteric syndrome.

Methods. The study used the following techniques: (a) “Your Health”, a questionnaire developed by O. S. Kopina and L. Reader; (b) “Assessing Neuropsychic Stress”, a technique by T. A. Nemchin; (c) the Rapid Diagnosis of Predisposition to Unwarranted Anxiety by V. V. Boyko; (d) the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) by Ch. D. Spielberg and Yu. L. Khanin; (e) the Individual Typological Questionnaire (ITQ) by L. N. Sobchik; (f) and a technique for diagnosing health, activity, and mood – HAM test – developed by V. A. Doskin and co-authors. The participants comprised 143 menopausal women aged 45–55 years.

Results. The study revealed the insufficiently explored personality characteristics in menopausal women with and without climacteric syndrome. Personal anxiety and climacteric syndrome had a statistically significant relationship in perimenopausal women.

Discussion. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the psychology of menopause and help in improving methods for diagnosis and psychocorrection of climacteric syndrome. Further research will concentrate on the bioelectric and bioenergetic processes forming the basis for personality characteristics in women with climacteric syndrome.
Çocuklar için Empati Bölümü Ölçeğinin Türkçe'ye Uyarlanması
Authors: Dinç Altun Zühal , Değerli Fatma İrem , Bolat Neslihan , Kınık Özge
Published: February 2018

Empati
kavramı pozitif psikolojide ve güncel hayatta oldukça kabul gören bir kavram
olmasına karşın bireylerin empati düzeyini ölçmek için yeterli psikometrik özelliklere
sahip güncel Türkçe ölçüm araçlarının sayısı sınırlıdır. Bu çalışmada Auyeung
ve arkadaşları tarafından (2009) geliştirilen Çocuklar için Empati Bölümü
Ölçeği’nin Türkçeye uyarlanması ve geçerlik-güvenirlik çalışmalarının yapılması
amaçlanmıştır. Orijinal formu 27 maddeden oluşan ölçek geçerlik güvenirlik
çalışmaları neticesinde Türkçe formunda 14 maddelik nihai haline getirilmiştir.
ÇEBÖ Türkçe formunun Cronbach alfa değeri .73 olarak hesaplanmış; psikometrik
özelliklerinin geçerli ve güvenilir olduğu bulunmuştur.
Meslek etiği eğitimine pozitif bir yaklaşım: Kültürleştirme modeli
Authors: Siviş Çetinkaya Rahşan
Published: February 2018

Bu kavramsal çalışmada, ülkemizde Psikolojik
Danışma ve Rehberlik (PDR) meslek etiği eğitiminde görece az bilinen bir yaklaşım
olan Pozitif Etik yaklaşımının (diğer adıyla Kültürleştirme Modeli) kuramsal temeli,
sınıfiçi etkinlikleri ve ülkemizde uygulanabilirliği konuları sunulmaktadır. Bu
amaçla, pozitif etik konusundaki uluslararası psikolojik danışma alan yazını
taranmıştır. Daha önce ülkemiz alan yazınına kitap çevirisiyle (Knapp &
VandeCreek, 2010) katılan pozitif etik yaklaşımı, bu makalede tekrar ele
alınarak yaklaşımın ülkemizde etik eğitimi veren psikolojik danışman
eğitimcileri arasında yaygınlaşmasına ve bu yaklaşımın önemi konusunda bilinç
artışına katkıda bulunmayı amaçlamaktadır. Bu bağlamda kültürleştirme modeli, pozitif
etikte önemli bulunan üç ana tema olan kişisel, mesleki ve küresel farkındalık
kavramları ile pozitif yaklaşımlı etik karar alma ve meslek etiği öğretiminde öğretim
elemanları tarafından kullanılabilecek sınıf içi pozitif etik uygulamaları ayrıntılı
biçimde açıklanmaktadır. Tartışma kısmında, pozitif etik yaklaşımının PDR
lisans/ lisansüstü programlarında meslek etiği öğretiminde kullanımına ilişkin
öneriler verilmektedir. PDR hizmetlerinin takım-yönelimli doğasından hareketle,
gerek meslek etiği eğitiminin, gerekse pozitif etik yaklaşımının diğer eğitim
fakültesi programları ile Pedagojik Formasyon Eğitimi Sertifika programlarının
müfredatlarına ve hizmetiçi eğitim etkinliklerine yaygınlaştırılmasına ilişkin
uygulama önerileri sunulmaktadır. Pozitif etik uygulamalarının etkililiğinin
test edilmesi için yapılacak görgül araştırmalara olan ihtiyaca da değinilmiştir.
Ortaöğretim Öğrencilerinin Bilimsel Epistemolojik İnançlarının İncelenmesi
Authors: Yenice Nilgün , Alpak Tunç Gizem , Yavaşoğlu Neslihan
Published: February 2018

Bu çalışmanın amacı ortaöğretim öğrencilerinin bilimsel epistemolojik inanç
düzeylerini belirlemek ve öğrencilerin epistemolojik inançlarını bazı
değişkenler açısından incelemektir. İlişkisel tarama modelindeki araştırma 809
ortaöğretim öğrencisinin katılımıyla gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmada Elder
(1999) tarafından geliştirilen ve Acat, Tüken ve Karadağ (2010) tarafından
Türkçe’ye uyarlanan “Bilimsel Epistemolojik İnançlar Ölçeği” ile Kişisel Bilgi
Formu kullanılmıştır. Öğrencilerin bilimsel epistemolojik inanç düzeylerini belirlemek
için; alt boyutların ortalama (X) ve standart sapma (SS) puanları hesaplanmış;
değişkenlere ilişkin farklılık durumunun belirlenmesinde Mann Whitney-U testi
ve Kruskal Wallis H-testi kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen sonuçlara göre, ortaöğretim
öğrencilerinin bilimsel epistemolojik inançlarının genel olarak gelişmiş
düzeyde olduğu söylenebilir. Ayrıca öğrencilerin cinsiyetlerinin ve sınıf
düzeylerinin, öğrencilerin bilimsel epistemolojik inançlarının alt boyutlarını
etkilediği söylenebilir. Elde edilen bu sonuçlar doğrultusunda; öğrencilerin
bilimsel epistemolojik inançlarındaki cinsiyet farklılığına neden olan
etkenlere ilişkin çalışmalar yapılabilir. Bununla birlikte; bilimsel
epistemolojik inanç düzeylerinin tüm öğrenim kademelerinde çağdaş düzeye getirilebilmesine
yönelik etkinlikler yapılması önerilebilir.
Oyunlaştırma, Eğitim ve Kuramsal Yaklaşımlar: Öğrenme Süreçlerinde Motivasyon, Adanmışlık ve Sürdürebilirlik
Authors: Sezgin Sezan , Bozkurt Aras , Yılmaz Ercan Altuğ , Van Der Linden Niels
Published: February 2018

Öğrenme
süreçlerinde daha etkili, verimli ve çekici deneyimler sağlayabilmenin
yollarından birisi de öğrenen motivasyonlarını arttırmak, öğrenenlerin bu
süreçlere adanmışlıklarını sağlamak ve süreçlerin sürdürülebilirliklerine
yönelik tasarımlar yapabilmekten geçmektedir. Bu doğrultuda oyunlaştırma, oyun
tasarım ilkelerini oyun dışı bağlamlara uygulayabilmeye yönelik öneriler sunan
yenilikçi bir yaklaşım olarak ortaya çıkmaktadır. Bu kapsamda bu çalışma
oyunlaştırma yaklaşımını eğitim çerçevesinde ele almakta, oyunlaştırmanın
tanımı, uygulama alanları, karakteristik özellikleri, oyuncu tipleri ve
oyunlaştırma modellerine yönelik açıklamalarda bulunmaktadır. Çalışma, ilgili
alanyazında yer alan mevcut bulguları sentezlenmekte ve oyunlaştırmayı eğitim
süreçlerinde kullanmak isteyen araştırmacı ve uygulamacılara öneriler
sunmaktadır. Bu çalışma sonucuna göre oyunlaştırma, öğrenenlerin
motivasyonlarını artırmaya yönelik stratejileri kullanarak öğrenenlerin daha
anlamlı öğrenme deneyimleri yaşayabilmelerine olanak sağlamakta, e-öğrenme
süreçlerinde öğrenenlerin adanmışlığını ve öğrenme deneyimlerinin
sürdürülebilirliğini sağlamak için kullanılabilecek bir yaklaşım olarak
değerlendirilmektedir.
Use of Electronic Health Records to Develop and Implement a Silent Best Practice Alert Notification System for Patient Recruitment in Clinical Research: Quality Improvement Initiative (Preprint)
Authors: Devoe Connor , Gabbidon Harriett , Schussler Nina , Cortese Lauren , Caplan Emily , Gorman Colin , Jethwani Kamal , Kvedar Joseph , Agboola Stephen
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Participant recruitment, especially for frail, elderly, hospitalized patients, remains one of the greatest challenges for many research groups. Traditional recruitment methods such as chart reviews are often inefficient, low-yielding, time consuming, and expensive. Best Practice Alert (BPA) systems have previously been used to improve clinical care and inform provider decision making, but the system has not been widely used in the setting of clinical research.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this quality-improvement initiative was to develop, implement, and refine a silent Best Practice Alert (sBPA) system that could maximize recruitment efficiency.

METHODS

The captured duration of the screening sessions for both methods combined with the allotted research coordinator hours in the Emerald-COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) study budget enabled research coordinators to estimate the cost-efficiency.

RESULTS

Prior to implementation, the sBPA system underwent three primary stages of development. Ultimately, the final iteration produced a system that provided similar results as the manual Epic Reporting Workbench method of screening. A total of 559 potential participants who met the basic prescreen criteria were identified through the two screening methods. Of those, 418 potential participants were identified by both methods simultaneously, 99 were identified only by the Epic Reporting Workbench Method, and 42 were identified only by the sBPA method. Of those identified by the Epic Reporting Workbench, only 12 (of 99, 12.12%) were considered eligible. Of those identified by the sBPA method, 30 (of 42, 71.43%) were considered eligible. Using a side-by-side comparison of the sBPA and the traditional Epic Reporting Workbench method of screening, the sBPA screening method was shown to be approximately four times faster than our previous screening method and estimated a projected 442.5 hours saved over the duration of the study. Additionally, since implementation, the sBPA system identified the equivalent of three additional potential participants per week.

CONCLUSIONS

Automation of the recruitment process allowed us to identify potential participants in real time and find more potential participants who meet basic eligibility criteria. sBPA screening is a considerably faster method that allows for more efficient use of resources. This innovative and instrumental functionality can be modified to the needs of other research studies aiming to use the electronic medical records system for participant recruitment.
IN VITRO ANTIMALARIAL ACTIVITY OF CHLOROFORM, N-BUTANOL, AND ETHYL ACETATE FRACTIONS OF ETHANOL EXTRACTS OF CARTHAMUS TINCTORIUS LINN. FLOWERS
Authors: Hamsidi Rini , Widyawaruyanti Aty , Fuad Hafid Achmad , Ekasari Wiwied , Kasmawati Henny , Akib Nur Illiyyin , Wahyuni Wahyuni , M Hajrul Malaka
Published: February 2018

Objective: This objective of this research was to study in vitro antimalarial activity of chloroform, n-butanol, and ethyl acetate fractions of ethanol extracts of Carthamus tinctorius Linn. flowers from Asteraceae family which empirically been used as traditional medication by people in South Sulawesi to heal measles.Methods: Fractionation was conducted using chloroform, n-butanol, and ethyl acetate. Determination of antimalarial activity was performed by in vitro test using the 24-well microplate and the candle-jar method. Breeding is done in a petri-dish and done aseptically. Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 culture obtained from frozen deposits in-thawing and bread from Pharmacy Laboratory of Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia. Blood sample with a density of over 2000 was employed. Serial decreasing concentrations of the crude extract of chloroform, butanol, and ethyl acetate fraction were tested for antimalarial activity. The following concentrations were used; 100; 10; 1.0; 0.1; and 0.01 (mg/mL). Negative controls used dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) diluted in the same manner as diluting materials above test, to obtain final DMSO concentration is not more than 0.5%. Mixture and suspension test parasites (= test preparation) are then inserted into the candle-jar and incubated in a CO2 incubator at a temperature of 37°C for 48 h. After incubation for 48 h made a thin blood smear on glass object. Smear dried at room temperature, fixed with methanol, then, once dry stained with Giemsa and counted under a microscope parasitemianya with 1000 times magnification. Calculations performed on 5000’s erythrocytes.Results: Results showed that chloroform and n-butanol fraction cannot inhibit parasitemia >50%, but ethyl acetate fraction can inhibit parasitemia >50% with the highest inhibition at 100 μg/mL of 94.48%.Conclusion: Ethyl acetate fraction is highly active as antimalarial with an IC50 of 1.25 μg/mL.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY EFFECT OF ELETTARIA CARDAMOM OIL ON CARRAGEENAN-INDUCED PAW EDEMA USING RATS BASED ON TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR α, INTERLEUKIN 6, AND INTERLEUKIN 1 LEVELS IN SERUM
Authors: Sermugapandian Nithya , R Rubini , V Martina
Published: February 2018

Objective: In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of Elettaria cardamom oil and the underlying mechanism using in vivo models of inflammation.Methods: Male Sprague–Dawley rats, 4-6 weeks old, weighing 120-130 gms are used for the study. The anti-inflammatory study of E. cardamom oil was studied by injecting 0.1 ml of 1% carrageenan to the subplantar region of the right hind paw of rats. The development of acute inflammation was measured at the end of every 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th h using plethysmometer.Results: As results from the above study, E. cardamom oil at a dose of 0.175 ml/kg was less significant than that of E. cardamom oil at a dose of 0.280 ml/kg when given orally. A p<0.05 shows a significant decrease in paw edema. It also reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin (IL) 1, and IL 6 levels in the serum. The histopathology results also showed a significant reduction of congested blood vessels with no marked impression for inflammation.Conclusion: E. cardamom oil possesses anti-inflammatory activity in dose-dependent manner as they inhibit the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
OREOCALLIS GRANDIFLORA PHOTOPROTECTIVE EFFECT AGAINST ULTRAVIOLET B RADIATION-INDUCED CELL DEATH
Authors: D Vinueza , D Cajamarca , K Acosta , G Pilco
Published: February 2018

Objective: The aim of this research was to evaluate the photoprotective effect of Oreocallis grandiflora hydroalcoholic extract (OGHE) againstultraviolet (UV)B-induced cell death model on a strain of Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and to determine the sun protection factor (SPF) using theequation proposed by Mansur.Methods: OGHE was obtained from leaves of O. grandiflora, following a standardized methodology. In short, O. grandiflora leaves were extracted withethanol 70% v/v and defatted with n-hexane, hydroalcoholic fraction was concentrated under controlled conditions through rotary evaporator, andfinally, the residue was freeze drying to obtain OGHE. The photoprotective effect was carried out using in vitro UVB-induced cell death model on astrain of E. coli (ATCC 25922), like a first approach to study its potential application on cosmetics.Results and Conclusions: From results, O. grandiflora is an important resource to produce new cosmetic products. However, the safety of OGHE isnecessary to a rational development in that sense. OGHE shows advantages in relation to conventional active compounds of commercial sunscreens usedin this research (2-ethylhexyl 4-methoxycinnamate and 2-ethylhexyl 4-(dimethylamino)benzoate) at the concentration of 2 mg/mL, on survivor time(with OGHE until 120 min), range of inactivation of E. coli caused by UVB (OGHE K value minor against to positive controls), and high SPF (13.56±0.21).
SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF VENTILATOR ASSOCIATED PNEUMONIA CAUSED BY MULTIDRUG RESISTANT ACINETOBACTER BAUMANNII WITH A COMBINATION THERAPY OF CSE1034 AND COLISTIN: A CASE REPORT.
Authors: Garg Himanshu , Dogra Pratibha , Saxena Mayank
Published: February 2018

Objective: One of the major causes of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in hospital settings is Acinetobacter baumannii. The propensity of acquiring antimicrobial resistance rapidly through a multiple number of mechanisms makes the selection of an appropriate empirical antimicrobial agent exceedingly challenging for this pathogen.Methods: The present case report explores the option of treating VAP infection due to carbapenem-resistant pathogens with antibiotic adjuvant entities.Results: We present a case of VAP due to carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii that was successfully treated with CSE-1034 and colistin combination therapy.Conclusion: Early recognition and appropriate antibiotic therapy are essential to eliminate poor outcomes in multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections. The present case highlights the antibiotic adjuvant entity “CSE-1034” as an empiric option for the treatment of VAP due to MDR A. baumannii in intensive care unit.
EVALUATION OF AQUEOUS AND ETHANOLIC EXTRACTS OF SYZYGIUM CARYOPHYLLATUM FOR ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITIES
Authors: Pendru Raghunath , Nadipelly Jagan , Kothapalli Jyothinath , Kotigadde Subbannayya
Published: February 2018

Objective: It has been well documented that traditional medicinal plants confer considerable antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms.Methods: The present study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the leaves of Syzygium caryophyllatum against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Shigella flexneri, and Vibrio cholerae. The aqueous extract was prepared using cold percolation method, and ethanolic extract was prepared in Soxhlet apparatus using ethyl alcohol. Antimicrobial activity is being determined by time-kill assay and minimum inhibitory concentration.Results: From our study, it is found that all tested organisms were sensitive to both aqueous and ethanolic extract of leaves of S. caryophyllatum. The ethanolic extract showed better antibacterial activity against S. aureus and S. typhi when compare to aqueous extract. The phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, phenols, tannins, and saponins in the ethanolic and aqueous extract of S. caryophyllatum. Conclusion: We hypothesize that these active phytoconstitutents might be responsible for the antimicrobial activity of this plant.
ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF NATURALLY OCCURRING LARVICIDAL COMPOUND ISOLATED FROM ZINGIBER ZERUMBET (L).J.E. SMITH.
Authors: Murini Tri , Wahyuningsih Mae Sri Hartati , Satoto Tri Baskoro Tunggul , Fudholi Achmad , Hanafi Muhammad
Published: February 2018

Objective: A naturally occurring larvicidal compound is an alternative to eradication of Aedes aegypti larvae. This compound is toxic to larvae but relatively safe for human. Rhizome of Lempuyang gajah (Zingiber zerumbet (L.) J. E. Smith) has been used traditionally to prevent mosquito bites. An initial study indicated that petroleum ether (PE) soluble fraction of the methanol (MeOH) extract of Z. zerumbet was toxic against larvae lethal concentration (LC50), 67.01±2.35 versus 153.57±4.01 ppm (MeOH ext.). Therefore, this study aimed to isolate and identify the compounds with larvicidal activity from Z. zerumbet rhizome.Methods: The PE soluble (PE-soluble) fraction was subjected to a bioassay-guided fractionation and isolation method to obtain four (4) fractions (I-IV). Two compounds (1 and 2) were isolated from Fraction I that was the most active compared to other fractions (II-IV). Compound 1 turned out to be more active than compound 2; therefore, compound 1 was then identified by means of spectroscopic data.Results: Based on the LC50 values, compound 1 was more active than compound 2 (LC50, 41.75±0.05 and LC90, 57.66±3.37 [1] versus 1122.27±1.80 and 1875.69±1.35 ppm [2]), and compound 1 was identified as Zerumbone.Conclusion: Zerumbone was the main active compound; in the future, this compound can be formulated as a standardized preparation based on the content.
EFFECT OF SUPPLEMENTATION KAYU MANIS (CINNAMOMUM BURMANNII) EXTRACT IN NEURONAL CELL DEATH PROTECTION IN WISTAR RATS LIR-PSYCHOTIC ON HALOPERIDOL THERAPY
Authors: Partan Radiyati Umi , Hidayat Rachmat , Saleh Mgs Irsan , Parisa Nita , Tamzil Nia Savitri
Published: February 2018

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the neuronal cell protective effect from kayu manis extract by inhibition activating active caspase-3 in Wistar rats lir psychotic-like behavior on haloperidol therapy.Methods: An experimental in vivo study, an 8-week-old male Wistar rats (n=30) were used. Wistar rats were randomized into six groups. Group A: 5 rats as control without induced psychosis-like behavior and aquadest or drugs. Group B: 5 rats were induced psychosis-like behavior (ketamine 30 mg/kgBW, intraperitoneal for 5 days) and aquadest. Group C: 5 rats were induced psychosis-like behavior and haloperidol 0.5 mg/kgBW, per oral, 28 days. Group D: 5 rats were induced psychosis-like behavior, haloperidol 0.5 mg/kgBW, and kayu manis extract 50 mg/kgBW, per oral, 28 days. Group E: 5 rats were induced psychosis-like behavior, haloperidol 0.5 mg/kgBW, and kayu manis extract 100 mg/kgBW, per oral, 28 days. Group F: 5 rats were induced psychosis-like behavior, haloperidol 0.5 mg/kgBW, and kayu manis extract 200 mg/kgBW, per oral, 28 days. Negative symptoms of schizophrenia were assessed by social interactivity test pre and post. Apoptosis of neuronal cells in ventral tegmental area was assessed by immunohistochemistry of active caspase-3. The area stained was calculated as a percentage of total area within a field by program ImageJ.Results: Active caspase-3 percentage area for group’s treatment with only haloperidol was more wide than groups treatment with combination haloperidol and kayu manis extract.Conclusion: Kayu manis extract can protect neuronal cell death through inhibition activating of active caspase-3 in Wistar rats psychotic-like behavior on haloperidol therapy.
HERBAL DRUG-INDUCED ADVERSE DRUG REACTION: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Gari Manju , Majhee Lakhan , Kumari Kavita
Published: February 2018

The present study done to focus many adverse drug reactions unrecorded with either patients failing to present to health services due to herbal medicine or no pharmacovigilance analysis is being made. In this case, a 55-year-old female patient with 41 kg weight, she received herbal treatment for gastritis and menstrual disturbance since November 2015. After administration of drug, she suddenly developed 23 small vesicles over neck and upper chest. Few vesicles ruptured over 4–5 days and few gradually increased in size to form bulla. The use of herbal drug has increased tremendously across the world in recent times. Hence, it has become important for pharmacovigilance of herbal drugs and adverse effect issues for the consumers and health-care professionals as it is complex to analyze these products than the conventional pharmaceuticals. “Safe” and “natural” cannot be used anonymously. Sufficient adverse drug monitoring of herbal drugs is as important as any other formularies.
SILVER NANOPARTICLES FROM MEDICINALLY IMPORTANT EUPHORBIA CYATHOPHORA EXTRACT: BIOSYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION, AND ANTICANCER ACTIVITY.
Authors: Lotha Robert , Sivasubramanian Aravind , Muthuraman Meenakshi Sundaram
Published: February 2018

Objective: The present study was aimed at the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using aqueous extract of Euphorbia cyathophora leavesand testing their anticancer potential using HT-29 cell line model.Methods: Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles was obtained with the aqueous extract of E. cyathophora. The synthesized nanoparticles wereconfirmed initially by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. Further, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-Ray diffractionstudies also ensured the presence of silver nanoparticles. Zeta potential studies revealed the stability of the silver nanoparticles.Results: Antioxidant and anticancer studies of the nanoparticles against HT-29 cell line exhibited remarkable results.Conclusion: This ensures that the synthesized nanoparticles play an important role in medicinal biology.
ANALYSIS OF TRENDS OF HYPERTENSIONS RELATING TO THE LEAVES AND CALCULATIONS IN BLOOD IN EMPLOYEE AND RECOVERY: CASE STUDY IN PLACE OF FINAL DISPOSAL (FD) MEDAN - MARELAN.
Authors: Saputri Muharni , Harahap Urip , Muchlisyam Muchlisyam
Published: February 2018

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between lead and calcium to hypertension.Methods: This study uses causal comparative cross-sectional study, which subjects of study as many as 31 people consisting of 10 people in Group I (employees of final disposal [FD]), 17 people in Group II (scavengers who move in FD), and 4 people in Group III (control). Confounding variables in this study are the working period, age, and body mass index. Determining calcium content performed acetylene flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry-air while the lead is done by atomic absorption spectrophotometry graphite furnace method.Results: The results of the study showed differences of concentration lead of each group. In Group II on day 30 it contained a lead level of 29.9141 μg/DL. This level has exceeded the threshold set by the WHO. Statistical test results using Rank Spearman correlation showed no relationship between lead and calcium to hypertension, the p value of each group was 0.187, 0.819, and 1.00.Conclusion: The results of this study can be concluded that the lead and calcium does not affect blood pressure on employees and scavengers in the FD Medan-Marelan.
EVALUATION OF FUNCTIONING AND STATUS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF HEMOVIGILANCE PROGRAM OF INDIA IN THE BLOOD BANKS OF SOUTHERN KERALA
Authors: Pk Sreekumar , Tm Pramod Kumar , G Partha Sarathi , Gupta Debasish , Prakash Pallavi
Published: February 2018

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the functioning and status of implementation of hemovigilance program of India (HvPI) in the blood banks of southern Kerala.Methods: It was a survey approach to analyze the facilities, working nature, and status of implementation of hemovigilance program by the blood banks located in the three districts of southern Kerala. Both goevrnment and private sector blood banks were subjected to the survey. Standard pro forma was used to collect the data. Collected data were analyzed by percentages and ratios.Results: A total of 40 blood banks were covered in the study. All the blood banks were licensed for handling whole blood. 23 blood banks were licensed for handling blood components. 6 blood banks process 100% blood into components. Majority of blood banks have excellent demand for components. Packed red cells, platelet concentrate, and fresh frozen plasma were the significant components among the prepared components. Majority of the blood banks under the survey had hospital transfusion committee (HTC). 25 blood banks replied as the HvPI is an excellent/good system. However, only 11 blood banks were enrolled in the HvPI. Training programs for the resident doctors and nurses regarding with adverse transfusion reaction and their reporting were not conducted by 17 blood banks.Conclusion: Except very few blood banks, all are need more awareness and training programs. Attention should be given in the area such as underreporting, poor implementation of hemovigilance, only serious reactions reporting, and avoiding minor reactions. Core factor is proper functioning of HTC and awareness programs about hemovigilance system.
AN INSIGHT ON ALGAL CELL DISRUPTION FOR BIODIESEL PRODUCTION
Authors: A Aarthy , Kumari Smita , Turkar Prachi , Subramanian Sangeetha
Published: February 2018

Objective: This review article deals with the effect that various cell disruption techniques have on the efficiency of lipid extraction. We have reviewed existing algal cell disruption techniques that aid the biodiesel production process.Methods: Current rise in demand for energy has led the researcher to focus on the production of sustainable fuels, among which biodiesel has received greater attention. This is due to its larger lipid content, higher growth rate, larger biomass production, and lower land use. Extraction of lipid from algae (micro and macro) for the production of biodiesel involves numerous downstream processing steps, of which cell wall disruption is a crucial step. Bead milling, high-pressure homogenization, ultra-sonication, freeze-drying, acid treatment, and enzymatic lysis are some methods of cell disruption. The cell disruption technique needs to be optimized based on the structure and biochemical composition of algae.Result: The lipid extraction efficiency varies depending on the algal species and the cell disruption technique used.Conclusion: In-depth research and development of new techniques are required to further enhance the cell disruption of the algal cell wall for the enhanced recovery of lipids. In addition, the operating costs and energy consumption should also be optimized for the cost-effective recovery.
CHROMATOGRAPHY-BASED PARTIAL PURIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ANTIMICROBIAL COMPOUND ISOLATED FROM A TERRESTRIAL STREPTOMYCES
Authors: Kesavan S Sudha Sri , S Usha Nandhini , Vasudevan Girija
Published: February 2018

Objectives: A potent Streptomyces strain isolated from garden soil samples of Sathyabama University, Chennai, and the characterization and its antimicrobial activity was reported previously. This report deals with partial purification and characterization of the partially purified antimicrobial compound by liquid chromatography-mass spectrum (LC-MS) method.Method: The crude extract was characterized by ultra violet-visible spectrum (UV) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) subsequently partial purification was done by thin-layer chromatography, and the bands were used for LC-MS analysis. The obtained mass spectrum was searched in NIST for species data by molecular weight. The compound was identified by comparing the mass spectrum with the known compounds mass spectrum having 98-100% identical. The biological activity of the identified compound was searched in PubChem.Results: The UV and FTIR spectrum indicate the presence of hydroxyl group, aliphatic chain, aromatic, aliphatic amines, and ethers in the crude extract. The LC-MS spectrum revealed the presence of 12 compounds in high intensity resembling antimicrobial compounds such as imidazole, N-trifluoroacetyl, cyclohexane, 2-nitro, and stigmasterol.Conclusion: The instrumental analysis shows the presence of 14 different compounds, and PubChem compound search shows these compounds having various biological activities including antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, antitumor, and antidepressant. This report insists us further to evaluate the anticancer, antitumor, and antitrypanosomal activities of the partially purified compound.
COST-EFFECTIVENESS OF HLA-B*5701 PROSPECTIVE GENETIC SCREENING OF HYPERSENSITIVITY TO ABACAVIR
Authors: M B Kubaeva , J Sh Gushchina , E E Loskutova
Published: February 2018

Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the use of genetic tests, before prescribing drugs to reduce not only the level of side effects but also the costs associated with changing therapy. In this paper, the authors analyze the economic efficiency of HLA*5701 prospective screening of hypersensitivity to abacavir (ABC) in the treatment of HIV-infected patients.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted among HIV-infected patients taking first-line antiretroviral therapy and further, based on the results obtained with the ABC-hypersensitivity reactions, analyzed the costs that affect on healthcare system.Results: In the study group of HIV-infected patients, most of the cases belonged to a young, socially active part of the population. Among the study population of patients (n=637), 171 patients were assigned ABC-containing antiretroviral therapy. An increase in costs was found in 67% of cases when ABC-containing first-line therapy was replaced due to the occurrence of undesirable reactions.Conclusion: The results show that, using this screening, we could reduce the costs associated with replacement therapy
DIFFERENCES IN THE EFFECTS OF 0.05% AND 0.1% PROPOLIS FLAVONOIDS ON IN VITRO BIOFILM FORMATION BY STREPTOCOCCUS MUTANS FROM CHILDREN’S DENTAL PLAQUE
Authors: Linggriani Agnes , Rizal Mochamad Fahlevi , Fauziah Eva , Suharsini Margaretha
Published: February 2018

Objective: This study was conducted to analyze the effects obtained with different concentrations (0.5 and 0.1%) of propolis flavonoids on in vitro biofilm formation by clinical Streptococcus mutans strains isolated from children’s dental plaque.Materials and Methods: S. mutans isolated from children’s dental plaque was assayed for biofilm formation in 96-microwell plates using crystal violet.Results: The effects on S. mutans biofilm formation were the same for propolis flavonoids administered at concentrations of 0.05 and 0.1% (p>0.01).Conclusion: A 0.05% propolis flavonoids concentration was deemed as effective as a 0.1% concentration at inhibiting S. mutans biofilm formation.
FLAXSEED OIL ALONE AND AS AN ADJUVANT WITH PHENYTOIN IN MES-INDUCED SEIZURES IN ALBINO RATS
Authors: Damodar Rahul H , Reddy Suneel Kumar , Goyal Malvika , E Pradeep B
Published: February 2018

Objective: The objective of this study to evaluate the anticonvulsant activity of flaxseed oil alone and as an adjuvant to phenytoin sodium.Methods: A total of 24 albino rats were used for this study. Four groups - control, standard (phenytoin sodium), test (flaxseed oil), and flaxseed oil along with phenytoin were made with six rats in each group. Maximal electroshock seizures 60-Hz AC of 150 mA intensity for 0.2 s were induced using an electroconvulsiometer with ear electrodes 60 min after oral drug administration. Duration of tonic hind limb extension (THLE) in seconds was used as a measure of seizures induced.Results: The mean duration of THLE in 4 groups was 11.66 (Group I), 5.67 (Group II), 3.85 (Group III), and 2.69 (Group IV). Duration of THLE was reduced in flaxseed oil group (P < 0.000) compared to both control and standard. Other parameters such as regain of righting reflex and recovery time also showed improvement. The group where flaxseed oil was used as an adjuvant to phenytoin also showed significant anticonvulsant activity. It showed a greater reduction in the parameters compared to either drug alone.Conclusion: The study showed that flaxseed oil possesses marked anticonvulsant activity when used alone and as an adjuvant to phenytoin. This study shows the potential of flaxseed oil in generalized tonic-clonic seizure.
PHARMACOGNOSTIC STANDARDIZATION OF STEMS OF VANDA ROXBURGHII ROXB.
Authors: Mukhtar Hayat M , Kalsi Vandna
Published: February 2018

Objective: There is an expanding demand of herbal medicines due to their compelling and more secure method for treating different diseases. In the present situation, these drugs are much productive for the treatment of different issues as they have negligible reactions in contrast with the allopathic pharmaceuticals. Vanda roxburghii is an epiphytic plant that finds a mention in the indigenous systems of medicines such as Ayurveda and Unani and has been used traditionally in Bangladesh. In the present investigation, various pharmacognostic standards have been investigated to prove the authenticity of the plant for the claimed traditional uses.Methods: The powdered drug was used for estimating the loss on drying, volatile oil content, ash values, fluorescence studies, extractive values, and phytochemical screening. Macroscopic and microscopic studies were also conducted on the powdered drug.Results: Phytochemical screening has shown the presence of various phytoconstituents such as glycosides, alkaloids, polyphenols, tannins, steroids, flavonoids, resins, and carbohydrates.Conclusion: V. roxburghii has been found to be useful as aphrodisiac, antibacterial, antifungal, antiulcer, anticonvulsant, and antioxidant agent. The present study provides the information on pharmacognostic characteristics, phytochemical screening, and physicochemical parameters.
SCREENING OF ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF FIVE DIFFERENT SPICES (AJWAIN, CORIANDER, CUMIN, FENNEL, AND FENUGREEK) AGAINST PATHOGENIC BACTERIAL STRAINS
Authors: S Salma , Ramakrishnan Lalitha , J Vinothini
Published: February 2018

Objective: This study was focussed on an evaluation of antibacterial activities of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of commonly consumed spices, namely, Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), cumin (Cuminum cyminum), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum).Methods: This study includes the antibacterial effects of spices against six bacterial strains, namely, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, and Staphylococcus aureus to compare their antibacterial effects by the paper disc agar diffusion method with three antibiotics such as amikacin, chloramphenicol, and vancomycin.Results: According to findings, it is determined that inhibitory activity was detected on aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Ajwain, aqueous extract of cumin and on alcoholic mixed spice sample.
YELLOWNESS IS A THREAT TO NEWBORN - A REVIEW
Authors: Jena Manoj , S Shekhar Mohapatra , Dash Anshurekha
Published: February 2018

Jaundice is a very well-known disease found worldwide. Jaundice comes from the French word “Jaune” - which means yellow. In medical term, jaundice is known as icterus which is a Greek word. This is a very common disease in the population, which causes the yellowish or greenish pigmentation in the skin and whiteness in the eyes. This is a condition of hyperbilirubinemia in which the amount of bilirubin increases in the blood. In this case, the high amount of bilirubin is found in blood, and the disruption of the movement of bilirubin into the liver and out of the body causes jaundice. Different symptoms seen in this case are yellow skin, yellow/white eyes, dark or reddish urine, loss of appetite, bitter taste of tongue, pale faces, nausea, itching in skin, anfd slow pulse rate. Jaundice may be mild to severe. Different types of jaundice are seen like normal jaundice in newborn, hepatic jaundice, and post-hepatic Jaundice.