bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Pexiganan Combination with Tigecycline in a Mouse Model of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Sepsis
Authors: Cirioni Oscar , Simonetti Oriana , Morroni Gianluca , Brescini Lucia , Kamysz Wojciech , Kamysz Elzbieta , Orlando Fiorenza , Pierpaoli Elisa , Caffarini Miriam , Orciani Monia , Agostinelli Claudio , Offidani Annamaria , Provinciali Mauro , Giacometti Andrea
Published: December 2018

Background:

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram-negative pathogen, associated with a severe
mortality rate. It is also difficult to treat due to numerous resistance mechanisms to a wide range of antibiotics.

Objective:

Evaluate the activity of pexiganan, an antimicrobial peptide, in combination with two
clinical antibiotics (azithromycin and tigecycline) that are not active against P. aeruginosa.

Methods:

Ten clinical P. aeruginosa were isolated from urinary tract infections, blood culture, skin infections
and respiratory tract infections. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and synergies were
evaluated by broth microdilution, checkerboard assays and time-kill studies. In vitro synergy was confirmed
with an in vivo experiment using a murine model of sepsis.

Results:

Pexiganan MICs were included between 2 and 16 mg/L. Tigecycline and azithromycin MICs
were high as expected (4-64 mg/L and 32-256 mg/L, respectively). Pexiganan and azithromycin combination
resulted to be additive or indifferent while tigecycline and pexiganan combination was synergic
against seven out of ten P. aeruginosa and additive against the other strains. In vivo experiment confirmed
the in vitro synergy, denoting a significative reduction of bacteria in mice treated with pexiganan
and tigecycline combination.

Conclusion:

Antimicrobial peptides are molecules that could be useful in the fight against infections and
pexiganan seems to be one of the most promising. Our results demonstrated that, in association with tigecycline,
pexiganan administration could overcome antibiotic resistance and increase the effectiveness
of treatment against P. aeruginosa sepsis.
Lipid Lowering Oxopropanylindole Hydrazone Derivatives with Antioxidant and Anti-hyperglycemic Activity
Authors: Varshney Kanika , Gupta Amit K. , Sonkar Ravi , Varshney Salil , Mishra Akanksha , Bhatia Geetika , Gaikwad Anil , Srivastava Arvind Kumar , Saxena Mridula , Jain Sudha , Saxena Anil K.
Published: December 2018

A series of substituted oxopropanylindole hydrazone derivatives was synthesized and evaluated for anti-oxidant and anti-dyslipidemic activity. Of the 12 tested, 3 compounds (6c, 7b and 7d) showed good anti-oxidant activity, compound 6c attenuated LDL oxidation by 32%. The compounds 6c and 7d also showed good anti-dyslipidemic activity by reducing serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), phospholipids (PL) and triglycerides (TG). These two compounds were further evaluated for antiadipogenic and anti-hyperglycemic activity, where 6c showed 44% reduction in lipid accumulation and 20.5% and 24.3% reduction in blood glucose at 5h and 24h respectively, as compared to standard drug metformin. Thus, compounds 6c and 7d with balanced anti-oxidant and anti-dyslipidimic activities may be excellent candidates for lead optimization and drug development for the treatment of metabolic disorders.
Molecular Modelling Studies of 1,4-Diaryl-2-Mercaptoimidazole Derivatives for Antimicrobial Potency
Authors: Rani Nidhi , Singh Randhir
Published: December 2018

Background: :

Imidazoles are considered as potent antimicrobial agents. In view of this
2-mercaptoimidazoles were synthesized and evaluated for antimicrobial study.

Methods::

Some new 2-mercaptoimidazoles 4a-r were synthesized using substituted aniline and
substituted phenacyl bromides in the presence of anhydrous sodium carbonate or potassium
carbonate and potassium thiocyanate under solvent-free conditions catalyzed by eco-friendly ptoluene
sulfonic acid.

Results: :

The structure of compounds was evaluated on the basis of Infrared spectroscopy (IR),
1HNMR (proton nuclear magnetic resonance) and mass spectral studies. These novel compounds
were screened for in-vitro antibacterial and antifungal potency against Staphyllococcus aureus,
Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. Further, the
study was rationalized by molecular modeling studies. All the compounds were subjected to
molecular modeling studies for inhibition of enzyme 14α-demethylase.

Conclusions::

The compounds were found to be effective in inhibiting the growth of pathogens. The
in-silico results depicted that, all the synthesized compounds have minimum binding energy and
good affinity towards the active site and thus can be considered as good inhibitors of 14α-
demethylase enzyme.
Death-Associated Protein Kinase 1 as a Promising Drug Target in Cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chen Dongmei , Zhou Xiao Z. , Lee Tae H.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Death-Associated Protein Kinase 1 (DAPK1) plays an important role in apoptosis, tumor suppression and neurodegeneration including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).

Objective:

This review will describe the diverse roles of DAPK1 in the development of cancer and AD, and the current status of drug development targeting DAPK1-based therapies.

Methods:

Reports of DAPK1 regulation, function and substrates were analyzed using genetic DAPK1 manipulation and chemical DAPK1 modulators.

Results:

DAPK1 expression and activity are deregulated in cancer and AD. It is down-regulated and/or inactivated by multiple mechanisms in many human cancers, and elicits a protective effect to counteract numerous death stimuli in cancer, including activation of the master regulator Pin1. Moreover, loss of DAPK1 expression has correlated strongly with tumor recurrence and metastasis, suggesting that lack of sufficient functional DAPK1 might contribute to cancer. In contrast, DAPK1 is highly expressed in the brains of most human AD patients and has been identified as one of the genetic factors affecting susceptibility to late-onset AD. The absence of DAPK1 promotes efficient learning and better memory in mice and prevents the development of AD by acting on many key proteins including Pin1 and its downstream targets tau and APP. Recent patents show that DAPK1 modulation might be used to treat both cancer and AD.

Conclusion:

DAPK1 plays a critical role in diverse physiological processes and importantly, its deregulation is implicated in the pathogenesis of either cancer or AD. Therefore, manipulating DAPK1 activity and/or expression may be a promising therapeutic option for cancer or AD.
Arginine Deiminase: Current Understanding and Applications
Authors: Zarei Mahboubeh , Rahbar Mohammad Reza , Morowvat Mohammad Hossein , Nezafat Navid , Negahdaripour Manica , Berenjian Aydin , Ghasemi Younes
Published: December 2018

Background:

Arginine deiminase (ADI), an arginine catabolizing enzyme, is considered as an anti-tumor agent for the treatment of arginine auxotrophic cancers. However, some obstacles limit its clinical applications.

Objective:

This review will summarize the clinical applications of ADI, from a brief history to its limitations, and will discuss the different ways to deal with the clinical limitations.

Method:

The structure analysis, cloning, expression, protein engineering and applications of arginine deiminase enzyme have been explained in this review.

Conclusion:

Recent patents on ADI are related to ADI engineering to increase its efficacy for clinical application. The intracellular delivery of ADI and combination therapy seem to be the future strategies in the treatment of arginine auxotrophic cancers. Applying ADIs with optimum features from different sources and or ADI engineering, are promising strategies to improve the clinical application of ADI.
Factors Associated with Physical Activity in South Africa: Evidence from a National Population Based Survey
Authors: Mlangeni Lungelo , Makola Lehlogonolo , Naidoo Inbarani , Chibi Buyisile , Sokhela Zinhle , Silimfe Zola , Mabaso Musawenkosi
Published: December 2018

Background:

The health benefits of regular physical activity and exercise have been widely acknowledged. Yet physical inactivity remains an issue in South Africa. This study examines factors associated with physical activity amongst South Africans.

Methods:

This analysis used the 2012 nationally representative population-based household survey conducted using a multi-stage stratified cluster sampling design. Multinomial bivariate and multiple logistic regression models were used to determine whether physical activity is significantly influenced by socio-demographic and lifestyle related characteristics.

Results:

Out of 26339 individuals, 57.4 % (CI: 55.9-59) were not physically active, 14.8 % (CI: 13.6-16) were moderately physically active, and 27.8 % (CI: 26.6-29.1) were vigorously physically active. Relative to those who reported physical inactivity, having higher education and being of a higher socioeconomic status increased the likelihood of engaging in moderate physical activity. Increasing age, being female, and living in informal settlements decreased the likelihood of engaging in moderate physical activity. Increasing age, being female, being married, being from rural formal settlements, and having poorer self-rated health reduced the likelihood of engaging in vigorous physical activity.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that there is a need for health promotion efforts targeting particular groups from selected socio-demographic strata including unhealthy individuals and those from disadvantaged communities.
Определение параметров структур металл-диэлектрик- полупроводник со сверхтонким изолирующим слоем из высокочастотных вольт-фарадных характеристик
Authors: Гольдман Е.И. , Кухарская Н.Ф. , Левашов С.А. , Чучева Г.В.
Published: December 2018

AbstractA simple numerical method for processing the data of the high-frequency capacitance–voltage characteristics of metal–insulator–semiconductor structures is proposed. The approach is based on analyzing the experimental characteristics near the flat-band states, where the charge exchange of surface localized electron states is of little importance compared with changes in the near-boundary charged layer in the semiconductor. The developed technique makes it possible, first, to find the necessary parameters of the semiconductor and insulating layer and, second, to obtain the experimental field dependences of the energy-band bending in the semiconductor and the total concentration of the built-in charge, the charge of boundary states and minority charge carriers at the semiconductor–insulator interface in the range from the flat bands to deep depletion. The technique is well applicable to structures with an ultra-thin insulating layer. On n -Si-based metal–oxide–semiconductor samples with an oxide thickness of 39 Å, experimental approbation of the proposed approach is carried out. The accuracy of the obtained results is 2–3%.
Моделирование параметров бетавольтаического элемента на основе тритида титана
Authors: Свинцов А.А. , Якимов Е.Б. , Дорохин М.В. , Демина П.Б. , Кузнецов Ю.М.
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe simulation of β-voltaic power cells consisting of a combined β-source and a converter was performed. The TiT_2 compound containing the radioactive tritium isotope was selected as the source. As the converter, structures based on semiconductor materials, most commonly used in developing power cells, i.e., Si, SiC, GaAs, were considered. Using the Monte Carlo method, the main source parameters were calculated, in particular, the maximum achievable short-circuit current was estimated.
Токовый шум и падение эффективности светодиодов при туннелировании носителей из квантовой ямы InGaN/GaN с участием дефектов
Authors: Бочкарева Н.И. , Иванов А.М. , Клочков А.В. , Шретер Ю.Г.
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe current dependences of the spectral noise density and quantum efficiency in green and blue light-emitting diodes with InGaN/GaN quantum wells (QWs) are measured. It is shown that the noise level greatly increases at high currents at which there is a quantum efficiency droop. The mechanism by which the current noise is formed is associated with hopping transport via the deep states of color centers in GaN across the n barrier of an InGaN/GaN QW. The source of the noise is the hopping resistance of the space-charge region, which limits the current of thermally activated electrons into the QW. The efficiency droop and the increase in noise level are attributed to a change in the electric-field direction near the QW at high injection levels and to an increase in the tunneling leakage of holes from the QW. It is shown that the experimental frequency-related noise spectra having the shape of a Lorentzian spectrum at the working currents are related to the frequency of hopping between deep centers near the InGaN/GaN QW and to Maxwell relaxation in the space-charge region.
Магнитные свойства гидридов соединений RNi-=SUB=-1-x-=/SUB=-Si-=SUB=-x-=/SUB=- (R --- Dy, Gd, x=0.05, 0.02)
Authors: Лушников С.А. , Терешина И.С. , Вербецкий В.Н.
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe magnetic properties of intermetallic compounds GdNi_0.98Si_0.02 and DyNi_0.95Si_0.05 and hydrides based on them have been studied. It is found that a partial substitution of Si atoms for Ni atoms does not cause significant changes in the magnetic characteristics such as the Curie temperature. At the same time, incorporation of hydrogen into the crystal lattice of the GdNi_0.98Si_0.02 and DyNi_0.95Si_0.05 compounds leads to significant decrease in the Curie temperature, attenuation of exchange interactions due to significant increase in the unit cell volume (more than 20%), and an increase in the distances between magnetoactive ions. The magnetism of the initial and also hydrogenated compositions are mainly determined by the contribution from the subsystem of the rare-earth ions.
Лазероиндуцированный режим сверхинтенсивного пузырькового кипения
Authors: Юсупов В.И. , Чудновский В.М. , Баграташвили В.Н.
Published: December 2018

AbstractSuperintensive bubble boiling (SBB) is implemented in water in the absence of degassing at the end surface of a laser fiber using 100-ns laser pulses. A thulium fiber laser with a radiation wavelength of 1.94 μm and moderate power is used as a radiation source. The generation of bubble microjets in the vicinity of the end surface of the laser fiber is studied with the aid of high-speed photography and acoustic methods. After a threshold transition to the SBB regime, the energy of acoustic emission is predominantly concentrated in an acoustic interval of 10–30 kHz. The acoustic signal is generated due to thermal cavitation. Record-high thermal fluxes of up to 0.16 MW/cm^2 are reached in the SBB regime. Parameters of the resulting convective fluxes, microbubbles, and broadband acoustic oscillations are determined.
Стратегия создания фотостабильных люминесцентных материалов молекулярной фотоники на основе beta-дикетонатных комплексов лантаноидов (III)-=SUP=-*-=/SUP=-
Authors: Лапаев Д.В. , Никифоров В.Г. , Лобков В.С. , Князев А.А. , Галяметдинов Ю.Г.
Published: December 2018

AbstractAn analysis of the prospects for creating new luminescent molecular photonics materials based on mesogenic lanthanide(III) β-diketonate complexes is presented. We consider vitrified films that combine intense monochromatic luminescence, high optical quality, and complete resistance to UV radiation with the ability to change their photophysical properties (for example, the absorption band width and luminescence intensity) depending on the local structure and under external actions, such as UV radiation and temperature. The problems of control of the photophysical properties of these films and the possibility of their application as working media of high-tech luminescent materials and devices (for example, luminescent sensors of temperature, oxygen, and UV radiation, as well as light-conversion materials) are discussed.
Умножитель субтерагерцевого диапазона на основе лампы бегущей волны с ленточным электронным пучком
Authors: Белов К.В. , Плоских А.Э. , Рыскин Н.М.
Published: December 2018

AbstractIn this paper, we present the results of the study of a multiplier based on a traveling wave tube with a sheet electron beam and slow-wave double-grating structures. Device configurations with the possibility of obtaining an output power above 60 W at the second harmonic frequency of 190 GHz with an input power of about 10 W at the first harmonic frequency were determined.
Влияние дисперсии магнитной анизотропии кластеров Ge-=SUB=-3-=/SUB=-Mn-=SUB=-5-=/SUB=- на температурные зависимости намагниченности тонких пленок Ge:Mn
Authors: Дмитриев А.И. , Дмитриева М.С. , Зиборов Г.Г.
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe temperature dependences of magnetization M ( T ) of thin ion-implanted Ge:Mn (4 at % Mn) films containing Ge_3Mn_5 clusters were measured on samples cooled in the absence of magnetic field (zero field cooled, ZFC) and in a magnetic field of 10 kOe (field-cooled, FC). It has been established that the shape of ZFC–FC differential M ( T ) curves is determined by lognormal distribution of the size-dependent magnetic anisotropy energy of Ge_3Mn_5 clusters. Analysis of the observed ZFC–FC magnetization curves allowed the magnetic anisotropy dispersion (variance) and magnetic anisotropy constant to be estimated.
Экспериментальное наблюдение эффекта ограничения каскада столкновений при распылении пористого кремния
Authors: Иешкин А.Е. , Толстогузов А.Б. , Свяховский C.Е. , Дроздов М.Н. , Пеленович В.О.
Published: December 2018

AbstractResults of investigation of the mass spectra of secondary ions sputtered from bulk (continuous) and porous silicon targets with various characteristic core particle dimensions are presented. It has been established that the sputtering of nanostructured Si samples leads to a significant increase in the relative yield of massive cluster ions. This effect is especially pronounced when the characteristic nanoparticle size approaches the range of bombarding ions in the Si target. The obtained results are explained taking into account the confinement of atomic collision cascades.
Use of a Low-Cost, Chest-Mounted Accelerometer to Evaluate Transfer Skills of Wheelchair Users During Everyday Activities: Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Barbareschi Giulia , Holloway Catherine , Bianchi-Berthouze Nadia , Sonenblum Sharon , Sprigle Stephen
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Transfers are an important skill for many wheelchair users (WU). However, they have also been related to the risk of falling or developing upper limb injuries. Transfer abilities are usually evaluated in clinical settings or biomechanics laboratories, and these methods of assessment are poorly suited to evaluation in real and unconstrained world settings where transfers take place.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this paper is to test the feasibility of a system based on a wearable low-cost sensor to monitor transfer skills in real-world settings.

METHODS

We collected data from 9 WU wearing triaxial accelerometer on their chest while performing transfers to and from car seats and home furniture. We then extracted significant features from accelerometer data based on biomechanical considerations and previous relevant literature and used machine learning algorithms to evaluate the performance of wheelchair transfers and detect their occurrence from a continuous time series of data.

RESULTS

Results show a good predictive accuracy of support vector machine classifiers when determining the use of head-hip relationship (75.9%) and smoothness of landing (79.6%) when the starting and ending of the transfer are known. Automatic transfer detection reaches performances that are similar to state of the art in this context (multinomial logistic regression accuracy 87.8%). However, we achieve these results using only a single sensor and collecting data in a more ecological manner.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a single chest-placed accelerometer shows good predictive accuracy for algorithms applied independently to both transfer evaluation and monitoring. This points to the opportunity for designing ubiquitous-technology based personalized skill development interventions for WU. However, monitoring transfers still require the use of external inputs or extra sensors to identify the start and end of the transfer, which is needed to perform an accurate evaluation.
A Telemedicine-Based Registration System for the Management of Renal Anemia in Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis: Multicenter Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ni Zhaohui , Jin Haijiao , Jiang Gengru , Wang Niansong , Peng Ai , Guo Zhiyong , Bai Shoujun , Zhou Rong , Lu Jianrao , Wang Yi , Li Ying , Zhuang Shougang , Yu Chen , Deng Yueyi , Jin Huimin , Xu Xudong , Zhang Junli , Zhao Junli , Yu Xiuzhi , Wang Xiaoxia , Zhang Liming , Niu Jianying , Liu Kun , Bao Xiaorong , Wang Qin , Ma Jun , Hu Chun , Zang Xiujuan , Yu Qing
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Renal anemia is one of the most important complications in patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). Telehealth-based dialysis registration systems have the advantage of real-time monitoring and have gradually been applied to the management of chronic diseases.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of our study was to evaluate the impact of a telehealth-based dialysis registration system on patients on MHD in terms of renal anemia control.

METHODS

The Red China project aimed to develop a dialysis registration system based on the WeChat mobile platform. Demographic and baseline laboratory parameters such as age, gender, primary disease, dialysis age, and baseline creatinine levels were recorded using this system. In addition, the hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were recorded monthly. The platform then generated a hemoglobin and hematocrit statistics report for each hemodialysis center monthly, including the detection rate, target rate, and distribution of hemoglobin and released it to physicians via the WeChat mobile phone app. The physicians were then able to treat the individual’s anemia appropriately by changing the doses of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents or iron use on the basis of this report. We analyzed the demographic and baseline laboratory parameters, detection rate, target rate, and average level and distribution of hemoglobin 28 months after the launch of the project.

RESULTS

A total of 8392 patients on MHD from 28 hemodialysis centers in Shanghai were enrolled from June 2015 to October 2017. The detection rate of hemoglobin increased from 54.18% to 73.61% (P<.001), the target rate of hemoglobin increased from 47.55% to 56.07% (P<.001), and the mean level of hemoglobin increased from 10.83 (SD 1. 60) g/dL to 11.07 (SD 1.60) g/dL (P<.001). In addition, the proportion of patients with hemoglobin levels ≥11 g/dL but <13 g/dL increased from 40.40% to 47.48%.

CONCLUSIONS

This telehealth-based dialysis registration system can provide timely reporting of the anemia status in patients on MHD, which may improve the awareness of anemia and the attention to and compliance with anemia monitoring.
Mobilizing health district management teams through digital tools: lessons from the District.team Initiative in Benin and Guinea using an action research methodology (Preprint)
Authors: Keugoung Basile , Bello Kéfilath Latoyossi Akankè , Millimouno Tamba Mina , Sidibé Sidikiba , Dossou Jean Paul , Delamou Alexandre , Legrand Antoine , Massat Pierre , Gutierrez Nimer Ortuno , Meessen Bruno
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Improving capacities of health systems to quickly respond to emerging health issues, requires a health information system (HIS) that facilitates evidence-informed decision-making at the operational level. In many sub-Saharan African countries, HIS are mostly designed to feed decision-making purposes at the central level with limited feedbacks and capabilities to take action from data at the operational level.

OBJECTIVE

This paper presents the case of an e-health innovation designed to capacitate health district management teams (HDMTs) through participatory evidence production and peer-to-peer exchange.

METHODS

With an action-research design, we developed District.team, a web-based and facilitated platform targeting HDMTs. On District.team, knowledge sharing processes are organized in cycles. Each cycle has fundamentally five steps: i) identification of a health issue to investigate together; ii) development of the online questionnaire by the facilitation team; iii) completion of the questionnaire by the HDMTs; iv) data analysis, production and publication of results; and v) discussion of results on the online discussion forum. This initiative was tested in Benin and Guinea from January 2016 to September 2017. The action-research methodology allowed us to progressively improve the approach. The evaluation rests on mixed methods data collection techniques including data extraction from intermediary reports, web analytics, nine focus groups and 18 semi-structured interviews of key stakeholders. Besides the documentation of the level of participation on the platform, we have collected data on the barriers and enablers affecting the participation of the district medical teams.

RESULTS

Participation on the platform was good. District.team improved explicit (data) and tacit (experience and exchange) knowledge exchange among HDMT members in Benin and Guinea. Five groups of factors affect participation: characteristics of the digital tools, the facilitation effort, profile of participants, shared content and data and support by the leadership from health authorities.

CONCLUSIONS

District.team has shown that there is room for knowledge management platforms and processes valuing horizontal knowledge sharing among peers active at the decentralized levels of health systems in poor resource settings. We recommend health authorities to promote the integration of such initiatives in existing health information system platforms.
A Telehealth-Delivered Pulmonary Rehabilitation Intervention in Underserved Hispanic and African American Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Community-Based Participatory Research Approach (Preprint)
Authors: Pekmezaris Renee , Kozikowski Andrzej , Pascarelli Briana , Wolf-Klein Gisele , Boye-Codjoe Eugenia , Jacome Sonia , Madera Danielle , Tsang Donna , Guerrero Brenda , Medina Richard , Polo Jennifer , Williams Myia , Hajizadeh Negin
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Although home telemonitoring (TM) is a promising approach for patients managing their chronic disease, rehabilitation using home TM has not been tested for use with individuals living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) residing in underserved communities.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyze qualitative data from focus groups with key stakeholders to ensure the acceptability and usability of the TM COPD intervention.

METHODS

We utilized a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to adapt a home TM COPD intervention to facilitate acceptability and feasibility in low-income African American and Hispanic patients. The study engaged community stakeholders in the process of modifying the intervention in the context of 2 community advisory board meetings. Discussions were audio recorded and professionally transcribed and lasted approximately 2 hours each. Structural coding was used to mark responses to topical questions in interview guides.

RESULTS

We describe herein the formative process of a CBPR study aimed at optimizing telehealth utilization among African American and Latino patients with COPD from underserved communities. A total of 5 major themes emerged from qualitative analyses of community discussions: equipment changes, recruitment process, study logistics, self-efficacy, and access. The identification of themes was instrumental in understanding the concerns of patients and other stakeholders in adapting the pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) home intervention for acceptability for patients with COPD from underserved communities.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings identify important adaptation recommendations from the stakeholder perspective that should be considered when implementing in-home PR via TM for underserved COPD patients.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03007485; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03007485
Patients’ Needs and Requirements for eHealth Pain Management Interventions: Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ledel Solem Ingrid Konstanse , Varsi Cecilie , Eide Hilde , Kristjansdottir Olöf Birna , Mirkovic Jelena , Børøsund Elin , Haaland-Øverby Mette , Heldal Karina , Schreurs Karlein MG , Waxenberg Lori B , Weiss Karen Elizabeth , Morrison Eleshia J , Solberg Nes Lise
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

A growing body of evidence supports the potential effectiveness of electronic health (eHealth) interventions in managing chronic pain. However, research on the needs and preferences of patients with chronic pain in relation to eHealth interventions is scarce. Eliciting user input in the development of eHealth interventions may be a crucial step toward developing meaningful interventions for patients for potentially improving treatment outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the experiences of patients with chronic pain with regard to information and communication technology, understand how an eHealth intervention can support the everyday needs and challenges of patients with chronic pain, and identify possible facilitators and barriers for patients’ use of an eHealth pain management intervention.

METHODS

Twenty patients living with chronic pain and five spouses participated in individual interviews. Semistructured interview guides were used to explore participants’ needs, experiences, and challenges in daily life as well as their information and communication technology experiences and preferences for eHealth support interventions. Spouses were recruited and interviewed to gain additional insight into the patients’ needs. The study used qualitative thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The participants were generally experienced technology users and reported using apps regularly. They were mainly in favor of using an eHealth self-management intervention for chronic pain and considered it a potentially acceptable way of gathering knowledge and support for pain management. The participants expressed the need for obtaining more information and knowledge, establishing a better balance in everyday life, and receiving support for improving communication and social participation. They provided suggestions for the eHealth intervention content and functionality to address these needs. Accessibility, personalization, and usability were emphasized as important elements for an eHealth support tool. The participants described an ideal eHealth intervention as one that could be used for support and distraction from pain, at any time or in any situation, regardless of varying pain intensity and concentration capacity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides insight into user preferences for eHealth interventions aiming to address self-management for chronic pain. Participants highlighted important factors to be considered when designing and developing eHealth interventions for self-management of chronic pain, illustrating the importance and benefit of including users in the development of eHealth interventions.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03705104; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03705104.
Patient and Caregiver Priorities for Outcomes in Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Manera Karine E. , Johnson David W. , Craig Jonathan C. , Shen Jenny I. , Ruiz Lorena , Wang Angela Yee-Moon , Yip Terence , Fung Samuel K.S. , Tong Matthew , Lee Achilles , Cho Yeoungjee , Viecelli Andrea K. , Sautenet Benedicte , Teixeira-Pinto Armando , Brown Edwina Anne , Brunier Gillian , Dong Jie , Dunning Tony , Mehrotra Rajnish , Naicker Saraladevi , Pecoits-Filho Roberto , Perl Jeffrey , Wilkie Martin , Tong Allison
Published: December 2018

Background and objectives

The absence of accepted patient-centered outcomes in research can limit shared decision-making in peritoneal dialysis (PD), particularly because PD-related treatments can be associated with mortality, technique failure, and complications that can impair quality of life. We aimed to identify patient and caregiver priorities for outcomes in PD, and to describe the reasons for their choices.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Patients on PD and their caregivers were purposively sampled from nine dialysis units across Australia, the United States, and Hong Kong. Using nominal group technique, participants identified and ranked outcomes, and discussed the reasons for their choices. An importance score (scale 0–1) was calculated for each outcome. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically.

Results

Across 14 groups, 126 participants (81 patients, 45 caregivers), aged 18–84 (mean 54, SD 15) years, identified 56 outcomes. The ten highest ranked outcomes were PD infection (importance score, 0.27), mortality (0.25), fatigue (0.25), flexibility with time (0.18), BP (0.17), PD failure (0.16), ability to travel (0.15), sleep (0.14), ability to work (0.14), and effect on family (0.12). Mortality was ranked first in Australia, second in Hong Kong, and 15th in the United States. The five themes were serious and cascading consequences on health, current and impending relevance, maintaining role and social functioning, requiring constant vigilance, and beyond control and responsibility.

Conclusions

For patients on PD and their caregivers, PD-related infection, mortality, and fatigue were of highest priority, and were focused on health, maintaining lifestyle, and self-management. Reporting these patient-centered outcomes may enhance the relevance of research to inform shared decision-making.
Nitrogen Moderate Rates’ Effects on the Performance of Cocoa Seedlings (Theobroma Cocoa Linn.) in the Forest Zone of Togo (West Africa)
Authors: Adden Ayi K. , Mawussi Gbénonchi , Batocfetou Madjoulba , Kokou Kouami
Published: December 2018

The cocoa trees nutrient requirements coverage, especially in nitrogen (N), remains essential for a better growth of the seedlings. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of the moderate nitrogen doses on the agronomic performance of the nursery cocoa seedlings in Togo’s forest zone. Trials were conducted in a complete randomized plot design with four replicates to identify the optimal complementary nitrogen dose helpful for better growth and nutrition of cocoa seedlings. The doses tested were 0; 0.5; 1 and 1.5 g.plant-1 of urea (46% N). The results showed that the doses of 0.5 and 1 g.plant-1 were the most likely to provide the best agronomic performance of nursery cocoa seedlings in the forest zone of Togo. However, the dose of 1 g.plant-1 was optimal for good growth and balanced nutrition of cocoa seedlings and would therefore be recommended for the management of cocoa nurseries in the area.
ANTITHROMBOTIC EFFECT OF TRIGONELLA FOENUM-GRACEUM ON COLLAGEN/ EPINEPHRINE-INDUCED THROMBOEMBOLISM IN MICE
Authors: Saputri Fadlina Chany , Nityasa Astari Rachma
Published: December 2018

Objective: This study aimed to further investigate the antiplatelet and antithrombotic activities of Trigonella foenum-graceum (TFG) in vivo.Methods: Male mice were divided into two experimental groups (bleeding duration and survival rate). The study groups comprised vehicle controls(administered carboxymethyl cellulose [CMC]), negative controls (administered CMC), positive controls (administered aspirin), and experimentaltreatment groups (administered TFG extract at three doses). Bleeding duration was assessed by excising the tail vein. Survival rate was determinedby inducing thrombosis through intravenous collagen/epinephrine administration.Results: In mice treated with TFG extract for 7 days, bleeding duration was significantly increased compared with that in controls (p<0.05). Moreover,mice treated with TFG showed increased survival rates compared with negative controls.Conclusion: TFG extract showed antithrombotic activity in mice by significantly increasing bleeding duration and survival rate.
SYNTHESIS OF COPPER AND MANGANESE COMPLEXES WITH METHIONINE AND TRYPTOPHAN: ANALYSIS BY ATOMIC ABSORPTION SPECTROPHOTOMETRY
Authors: Hindersah Azkaafina , . Harmita , Jatmika Catur
Published: December 2018

Objective: In this study, we aimed to create complexes consisting of copper and manganese mineral elements and amino acids.Methods: We determined the mineral element levels both bound and in their free state using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The synthesizedcomplexes were characterized using infrared spectrophotometry, while the free and bound mineral contents were separated using ion exchangechromatography.Results: Our results demonstrated that the synthesis of such complexes was successful. The free mineral contents of the copper-methionine, coppertryptophan,and manganese-methionine complexes were 4.52, 6.53, and 0.056 mg/kg, respectively, while the bound mineral contents of the coppermethionine,copper-tryptophan, manganese-methionine, and manganese-tryptophan complexes were 96.885, 114.974, 57.778, and 49.624 mg/kg,respectively.Conclusion: The synthesis of copper and manganese complexes were successfully formed and analysis.Keywords:
DETECTION OF BISPHENOL A CONTAMINATION IN CANNED CARBONATED BEVERAGES BY GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY
Authors: Suryadi Herman , Naja Faatichatun , Harahap Yahdiana
Published: December 2018

Objective: The purpose of this study was to develop sensitive, selective, and valid methods for the detection of bisphenol A (BPA) contamination inbeverage samples using gas chromatography (GC)-flame ionization.Methods: The optimized analysis system employed a long HP-1 capillary column (30 m, inner diameter 0.25 mm, film thickness 0.25 μm), gradientcolumn temperature (150°C–260°C at 10°C/min), and nitrogen as a carrier gas (1 mL/min). Samples were prepared for analysis using ethyl acetateas the extraction solvent.Results: This method yielded a linearity coefficient of 0.9998, while the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) were 0.287 μg/mL and0.956 μg/mL, respectively. All validation parameters, including linearity, selectivity, accuracy, precision, LOD, and LOQ, meet recognized acceptabilitycriteria. Contamination analysis showed that one of the three beverage brands tested contained 2.4090 μg/mL BPA, and contamination was evenhigher after heating.Conclusion: BPA contamination may occur in canned beverages, especially under improper storage conditions. This GC-based BPA detection systemmay be useful for the detection of BPA contamination in consumer beverages.
ARGINASE INHIBITORY ACTIVITY OF STEM BARK EXTRACTS OF CAESALPINIA TORTUOSA ROXB
Authors: Najid Amirah , Elya Berna , Noviani Arikadia
Published: December 2018

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the arginase inhibitory activity of Caesalpinia tortuosa Roxb. stem bark extracts.Methods: C. tortuosa Roxb. stem bark extracts were obtained through reflux extraction using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol and theirinhibitory activity against arginase was measured using a microplate reader at 430 nm. Active extracts were subjected to phytochemical analysisand based on the qualitative phytochemical analysis, quantitative data regarding flavonoid and phenolic contents were obtained. The total flavonoidcontent of active extracts was determined using AlCl3 colorimetric method, and the phenolic content was determined using Folin–Ciocalteu method.Results: Ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of C. tortuosa Roxb. inhibited activity of arginase with IC50 values of 33.81 and 11.58 μg/mL,respectively, nor-NOHA acetate as standard drug inhibited arginase with IC50 values of I3.77 μg/mL. Both active extracts contained saponins,tannins, and flavonoids. Ethyl acetate and methanol extracts showed a total flavonoid content of 7.41 mgQE/g and 5.05 mgQE/g and totalphenolic content of 27.55 mgGE/g and 17.16 mgGE/g, respectively. Methanol extracts had a higher inhibitory activity than ethyl acetateextracts despite having flavonoid and phenolic content, thereby suggesting no correlation between arginase inhibitory activity and flavonoidor phenolic content.Conclusion: Ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts of C. tortuosa Roxb. stem barks containing flavonoids, tannins, and saponins displayed arginaseinhibitory activity, and no correlation was observed between arginase inhibitory activity and flavonoid and phenolic content.
EFFECT OF NANOCURCUMIN ON CISPLATIN-INDUCED ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY: A FOCUS ON NRF2 AND KEAP1
Authors: Pandhita Bashar Adi Wahyu , Soetikno Vivian , Louisa Melva
Published: December 2018

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of nanocurcumin (NC) against cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury, focusing on Nrf2 and Keap1.Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n=23) were divided into five groups (Control, CP, CP+Cur, CP+50 NC, and CP+100 NC) and sacrificed 7 days aftertreatment. Whole kidneys were collected for reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis of Nrf2 and Keap1.Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the RT-PCR results among the groups (p>0.05). However, Keap1 expression wasupregulated in rats treated with 100 mg of NC, which may have been caused by increased Nrf2 activation and activation of a negative feedback loop,which upregulated transcription of Keap1.Conclusion: NC increased Keap1 levels, but not significantly.
EFFECTS OF CURCUMIN AND NANOCURCUMIN ON CISPLATIN-INDUCED NEPHROTOXICITY IN RAT: COPPER TRANSPORTER 1 AND ORGANIC CATION TRANSPORTER 2 AS DRUG TRANSPORTERS
Authors: Rahmi Deliana Nur Ihsani , Louisa Melva , Soetikno Vivian
Published: December 2018

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of curcumin (CMN) and nanocurcumin (NC) at preventing cisplatin (CDPP)-inducednephrotoxicity.Methods: Two membrane transporters, copper transporter 1 (CTR1) and organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2), have been identified involved in activeaccumulation of CDPP into renal tubular cells. We analyzed OCT2 transcription levels in rat kidney tissue and determined whether renoprotectivemechanism of CMN involves CTR1. Rats were randomly divided into five groups: (1) Control, (2) CDPP (7 mg/kg as single dose (i.p.), (3) CDPP+CMN(7 mg/kg CDPP as a single dose, i.p.+100 mg/kg/day of CMN), (4) CDPP+50 mg NC (7 mg/kg CDPP as single dose, i.p.+50 mg/kg/day NC), and(5) CDPP+100 mg NC (7 mg/kg CDPP as single dose, i.p.+100 mg/kg/day NC). Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction wasperformed to calculate relative expression of CTR1 and OCT2 genes in rat kidney.Results: Expression of CTR1 was unassociated with administration of CMN or NC, indicating CTR1 is uninvolved in renoprotective mechanism of CMN.The administration of 100 mg/kg/day NC increased expression of OCT2; this increase was higher compared with normal expression levels. This maybe due to another regulatory mechanism from the CMN itself.Conclusion: NC has a better renoprotective effect compared with curcumin, suggested by the increased OCT2 expression on its administration inCDPP-treated rats.
HEPATOPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF 50% ETHANOL EXTRACT OF SEAGRASS RHIZOME (CYMODOCEA ROTUNDATA) AGAINST LIVER TISSUES IN PARACETAMOL-INDUCED RATS
Authors: Dewi Renita , Malika Raesha Dwina , Meilani Ade Mara , Saputri Fadlina Chany
Published: December 2018

Objective: This study aimed to determine the hepatoprotective effect of 50% ethanol extract of seagrass rhizome in terms of serum glutamicoxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) activities in paracetamol-induced rat plasma.Methods: This study included 28 male, white rats randomly divided into seven groups. Groups I and II represented the normal control and controlgroups, respectively, administered with 280 mg/kg BW of rhizome extract. Group III represented the negative control group induced by a suspensionof paracetamol (2g/kg BW). Group IV represented a positive control group administered with Hepa-Q® at a dosage of 150 mg/kg BW. Groups V, VI,and VII were administered with seagrass rhizome extract at doses of 140, 280, and 560 mg/kg BW, respectively, before paracetamol induction. Thetest material was orally administered for 17 days. On days 12–17, the rats were induced with paracetamol through the same route. On day 18, bloodsampling was performed followed by SGOT and SGPT plasma measurements.Results: Our results revealed that seagrass rhizome extracts could significantly decrease SGPT and SGOT levels in paracetamol-induced rats (p<0.05)compared with those in the negative control group.Conclusion: Thus, seagrass rhizome extracts possess the potential for development as a hepatoprotective agent.
MONITORING SIDE EFFECTS OF ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS/ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME
Authors: Sari Santi Purna , Isnaini Siti Rizky , Puspitasari Atika Wahyu
Published: December 2018

Objective: This study aimed to monitor the side effects of patients who received antiretroviral medications in a subdistrict of West Jakarta in 2017.Methods: Descriptive research was performed using data collected prospectively from patients who met our inclusion criteria (total sampling).Primary data were obtained from interviews, and secondary data were obtained from medical and prescription records. The Naranjo algorithm wasused to classify side effects.Results: The side effects experienced by patients in this study fell into probable (45.45%) and possible (36.36%) categories. However, age (p=0.379),gender (p=1), and length of treatment (p=0.07) did not significantly affect the occurrence of side effects.Conclusion: Monitoring the side effects of antiretroviral medicine is necessary to prevent serious and rare side effects. The occurrence of side effects,whether they have an established causal relationship or not, could be prevented by appropriate monitoring.
OPTIMIZED HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY-FLUORESCENCE DETECTION METHOD FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF GLYCINE, PROLINE, AND HYDROXYPROLINE CONCENTRATIONS IN PORCINE GELATIN
Authors: Ekasary Aryaty , . Harmita , Maggadani Baitha Palanggatan
Published: December 2018

Objective: The aim of this study is to develop an optimized method for glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline content quantitation in porcine skingelatin.Methods: Gelatin was isolated from porcine skin by hydrolysis for 24 h in 0.5 M acetic acid, heating in distilled water at 55°C for 3 h, and drying at60°C. The extract was evaluated by organoleptic tests, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, moisture assay, ash assay, and viscosity test. Gelatinamino acids were derivatized using 9-fluorenylmethylchloroformate-chloride and measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)with fluorescence detection using a C18 column after the optimization of the mobile phase composition, flow rate, and detection wavelengths.Results: The optimized parameters for the quantitation of glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline by HPLC with fluorescence detection were asfollows: Excitation wavelength, 265 nm; emission wavelength, 320 nm; mobile phase composition acetic buffer: acetonitrile, 55:45; and flowrate, 0.8 mL/min. The average proportional amino acid contents were 28.57±0.74%, 19.24±0.48%, and 2.89±0.33% for glycine, proline, andhydroxyproline, respectively.Conclusion: This method allows for sensitive and accurate quantitation of glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline in porcine skin gelatin samples forquality control and source determination.