bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Usage and Co-prescription with Other Potentially Interacting Drugs in Elderly: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Abdu Nuru , Teweldemedhin Samuel , Mosazghi Asmerom , Asfaha Luwam , Teshale Makda , Kibreab Mikal , Habte Eyasu , Anand Indermeet Singh , Russom Mulugeta
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Globally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) usage in the elderly with chronic pain has been reported as frequent. Though it is fundamental in maintaining their quality of life, the risk of polypharmacy, drug interactions and adverse effects is of paramount importance as the elderly usually require multiple medications for their co-morbidities. If prescriptions are not appropriately monitored and managed, they are likely to expose patients to serious drug interactions and potentially fatal adverse effects. Thus, the objective of the study was to assess the appropriateness of NSAIDs use and incidence of NSAIDs related potential interactions in elderly. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly out-patients (aged 60 and above) who visited three hospitals in Asmara between August 22 and September 29, 2018. The sampling design was two-stage random sampling and data was collected using a questionnaire, exit interview and by abstracting information from patients’ clinical cards. Descriptive and analytical statistics including chi-square test and logistic regression were employed using SPSS. Results: A total of 285 elderly respondents were enrolled in the study with similar male to female ratio. One in four of all respondents were chronic NSAIDs users, of which 74.6% were not prescribed prophylactic gastro-protective agents (GPAs). About 20% of the elderly were involved in polypharmacy and nearly all of the encountered potential NSAIDs related interactions (n=322) with prescribed drugs were moderate. Diabetes and hypertension were significantly associated with chronic NSAIDs use (OR=3, 95% CI: 1.54, 5.84; OR=9.99, 95% CI: 4.46, 22.38) and incidence of drug interactions (OR=3.95, 95%CI: 1.92, 8.13; OR=3.12, 95%CI: 1.81, 5.33) while diabetes and cardiac problem were significantly associated with incidence of polypharmacy (OR=4.33, 95% CI: 2.36, 7.96; OR=3.56, 95% CI: 1.05, 12.11). Conclusion: Though the overall reflection of prescription pattern of NSAIDs during the study period was almost satisfactory, gastro-protective agents were poorly prescribed as a prophylaxis.
Characterization of the Lactobacillus plantarum A3 with novel fermentation properties
Authors: Lang Fengxuan , Wen Jianzhu , Wu Zhen , Pan Daodong , Zeng Xiaoqun , Cai Zhendong , Guo Yuxing , Liu Xiaotao
Published: December 2019

The use of probiotic starters in the milk fermentation could provide the dairy products with unique flavors, textures and some health benefits. In this research, L. plantarum A3 was identified as a probiotic with good fermentation characters during the texture and flavor formation of yoghurt. The hardness, consistency, viscosity, and viscosity coefficient of the yoghurt were enhanced when fermented with L. plantarum as the higher activity of β-galactosidase and lactate dehydrogenase in the mixed culture condition. The contents of amino acids and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were found accumulated in L. plantarum fermented yoghurt besides the butanoic acid, acetone. Sensory profiling evaluation with electronic tongue system proved the novel taste of L. plantarum fermented yoghurt were significant different with the former plain yoghurt. Indeed, yoghurt fermentation with L. plantarum A3 indeed has a good quality and nutrition properties compared with the traditional strains and the relationship between the traditional fermentation strains and probiotics still need further investigation to meet the nutrition requirements of varies consumers.
HIV/AIDS research in Africa and the Middle East: participation and equity in North-South collaborations and relationships.
Authors: González-Alcaide Gregorio , Menchi-Elanzi Marouane , Nacarapa Edy , Ramos-Rincón José-Manuel
Published: December 2019

Background: HIV/AIDS has attracted considerable research attention since the 1980s. In the current context of globalization and the predominance of cooperative work, it is crucial to analyze the participation of the countries and regions where the infection is most prevalent, African continent being the hardest hit (67.5% of estimated cases). This study assesses the participation of African countries in publications on the topic, as well as the degree of equity or influence existing in North-South relations.Methods : We identified all articles and reviews of HIV/AIDS indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection. We analyzed the scientific production, collaboration, and contributions from African and Middle Eastern countries to scientific activity in the region. The concept of leadership was used to determine the equity in research produced through international collaboration. Results: A total of 68,808 documents published from 2010 to 2017 were analyzed. Researchers from North America and Europe participated in 82.14% of the global scientific production on HIV/AIDS, compared to just 21.61% from Africa and the Middle East. Furthermore, the research that did come out of these regions was concentrated in a small number of countries, led by South Africa (41% of the documents). Other features associated with HIV/AIDS research from Africa include the importance of international collaboration from the USA, the UK, and other European countries (75%-93% of the documents) and the limited leadership that is evident (30% to 36% of the documents). Finally, the research to which African countries contributed had a notably different disciplinary orientation, with a predominance of research on public health, epidemiology, and drug therapy.Conclusions: It is essential to foster more balance in research output, avoid the concentration of resources that reproduces the global North-South model on the African continent, and focus the research agenda on local priorities. To accomplish this, the global North should strengthen the transfer of research skills and seek equity in cooperative ties, favoring the empowerment of African countries. These efforts should be concentrated in countries with low scientific activity and high incidence and prevalence of the disease. It is also essential to foster intraregional collaborations between African countries.
Towards Improving the Identification of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears in Primary Point-of-Care Settings
Authors: Whittaker Jackie L , Chan Michelle , Pan Bo , Hassan Imran , Defreitas Terry , Hui Catherine , Macedo Luciana , Otto David
Published: December 2019

BackgroundOnly a small proportion of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are diagnosed on initial healthcare consultation. Current clinical guidelines do not acknowledge that primary point-of-care practitioners rely more heavily on a clinical history than special clinical tests for diagnosis of an ACL tear. This research will assess the accuracy of combinations of patient-reported variables alone, and in combination with clinician-generated variables to identify an ACL tear as a preliminary step to designing a primary point-of-care care clinical decision support tool.MethodsElectronic medical records (EMRs) of individuals aged 15-45 years, with ICD-9 codes corresponding to a knee condition, and confirmed (ACL+) or denied (ACL-) first-time ACL tear seen at a University-based Clinic between 2014 and 2016 were eligible for inclusion. Demographics, relevant diagnostic indicators and ACL status based on orthopaedic surgeon assessment and/or MRI reports were manually extracted. Descriptive statistics calculated for all variables by ACL status. Univariate between group comparisons, clinician surveys (n=17), availability of data and univariable logistic regression (95%CI) were used to select variables for inclusion into multivariable logistic regression models that assessed the odds (95%CI) of an ACL-tear based on patient-reported variables alone (consistent with primary point-of-care practice), or in combination with clinician-generated variables. Model performance was assessed by accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and positive and negative likelihood ratios (95%CI).ResultsOf 1,512 potentially relevant EMRs, 725 were included. Participant median age was 26 years (range 15-45), 48% were female and 60% had an ACL tear. A combination of patient-reported (age, sport-related injury, immediate swelling, family history of ACL tear) and clinician-generated variables (Lachman test result) were superior for ACL tear diagnosis [accuracy; 95%CI (90,98), sensitivity; 0.97 (0.88,0.98), specificity; 0.95 (0.82,0.99)] compared to the patient-reported variables alone [accuracy; 84% (77,89), sensitivity; 0.60 (0.44,0.74), specificity; 0.95 (0.89,0.98)].Conclusions﻿A high proportion of individuals without an ACL tear can be accurately identified by considering patient-reported age, injury setting, immediate swelling and family history of ACL tear. These findings directly inform the development of a clinical decision support tool to facilitate timely and accurate ACL tear diagnosis in primary care settings.
Association of PIN3 16-bp Duplication Polymorphism of TP53 gene with Breast Cancer Risk in Mali and A Meta-analysis.
Authors: Diakite Brehima , Kassogue Yaya , Dolo Guimogo , Kassogue Oumar , Keita Mamadou Lassine , Joyce Brian , Neuschler Erin , Wang Jun , Musa Jonah , Traore Cheick Bougari , Kamate Bakarou , Dembele Etienne , Sellama Nadifi , Isichei Mercy , Holl Jane L , Murphy Robert , Doumbia Seydou , Hou Lifang , Maiga Mamoudou
Published: December 2019

Background Breast cancer, the most common tumor in women in Mali and worldwide has been linked to several risk factors including genetic factors, such as the PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism of TP53 gene. The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of the PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism in the susceptibility to breast cancer in the Malian population and to perform a meta-analysis to better understand the correlation with data from other populations.Methods We analyzed the PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism in blood samples of 60 Malian women with breast cancer and 60 healthy appearing Malian women using PCR. In addition, we performed a meta-analysis of data from case-control studies published in articles retrieved from international databases (Pubmed, Harvard University Library, Genetics Medical Literature Database, Genesis Library and Web of Science). Overall, odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI from fixed and random effects models were determined. Inconsistency was used to assess heterogeneity between studies and publication bias was estimated using the funnel plot.ResultsIn the Malian patients studied here, a significant association of PIN3 16-bp duplication polymorphism with breast cancer risk was observed in dominant (A1A2+A2A2 vs. A1A1: OR = 2.26, CI 95% = 1.08-4.73; P = 0.02) and additive (A2 vs. A1: OR =1.87, CI 95% = 1.05-3.33; P = 0.03) models, but not the recessive model ( P = 0.38). In the meta-analysis, nineteen (19) articles were included with a total of 6,018 disease cases and 4,456 controls. Except for the dominant model ( P = 0.15), an increased risk of breast cancer was detected with the recessive (OR=1.46, 95% CI = 1.15-1.85; P = 0.002) and additive (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.02-1.19; P = 0.01) models.Conclusion The Malian case-control study suggests that PIN3 16-bp polymorphism duplication of TP53 gene is an important risk factor for breast cancer in Malian women. These data are supported by the meta-analysis of broader ethnic and population groups.
Obesity Epidemic in Urban Tanzania: A Public Health Calamity in an already Overwhelmed and Fragmented Health System.
Authors: Pallangyo Pedro , Mgopa Lucy , Mkojera Zabella S. , Hemed Naairah R. , Swai Happiness J. , Bhalia Smita , Millinga Jalack , Mushi Theophil L. , Kabeya Lucia , Omar Aisha , Kaijage Alice , Mulashani Rydiness , Mosha Silvia , Mwapinga Faustina , Janabi Mohamed
Published: December 2019

Background Worldwide, the epidemiological and demographic transitions have resulted in nutrition shift characterized by an increased consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and energy-dense fast food products. In just over 3 decades, overweight and obesity rates have nearly tripled to currently affecting over a third of the global population. Notwithstanding the ever present under-nutrition burden, sub Saharan Africa (SSA) is witnessing a drastic escalation of overweight and obesity. We aimed to explore the prevalence and associated factors for obesity among residents of Dar es Salaam city in Tanzania.Methods Participants from this study were recruited during a community screening conducted in Dar es Salaam. Sociodemographic and clinical data were gathered using a structured questionnaire during enrollment. Dietary habits, anthropometric measurements and blood pressure were assessed. All statistical analyses utilized STATA v11.0 software. Pearson Chi square and Student’s T-test were used to compare categorical and continuous variables respectively. Linear logistic regression analyses were used to assess for factors associated with BMI≥25. All tests were 2-sided and p<0.05 was used to denote a statistical significance.Results A total of 6691 participants were enrolled. The mean age was 43.1 years and males constituted 54.2% of all participants. Over two-thirds of participants were alcohol consumers and 6.9% had a positive smoking history. Eighty eight point three percent of participants were underactive, 4.7% had a history of diabetes mellitus and 18.1% were known to have elevated blood pressure. Overweight and obesity were observed in 34.8% and 32.4% of participants respectively. Among overweight and obese participants, 32.8% had a misperception of having a healthy weight. Age≥40, female sex, a current working status, habitual breakfast skipping, poor water intake, high soft drink consumption, regular fast food intake, low vegetable and fruit consumption, alcohol consumption and elevated blood pressure were found to be independent associated factors for obesity.Conclusion A sizeable proportion of participants were overweight or obese. Concomitantly, the rates of physical inactivity and unhealthy eating are disproportionately high. In view of this, community-based and multilevel public health strategies to promote and maintain healthy eating and physical activity require an urgent step-up in urban Tanzania.
Geographic variation and Factors associated with khat chewing among adult males 15-59 years in Ethiopia, EDHS 2016. Generalized Estimating Equation Approach
Authors: Tadesse Zemenu Tessema , Zeleke Tadele Amare
Published: December 2019

Background: Khat chewing has become prevalent in the world due to the improvement of road and air transportation. In Ethiopia, khat chewing is more prevalent and wildly practiced by men. Khat has a negative effect on social, economic and mental health. Therefore, this study aims to show spatial patterns and factors associated with khat chewing among male adults 15-59 years in Ethiopia. Methods : A total of 12,594 men who chew khat in their were included in this study. ArcGIS version 10.7 software was used to visualize spatial pattern chewing khat among adult men in Ethiopia. The Bernoulli model was applied using Kilduff SaTScan version 9.6 software to identify significant purely spatial clusters for chewing khat in Ethiopia. The robust standard error method of generalized estimating equations was used for the binary outcome variable from the clustered data and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence interval were reported. Results: A total of 12,594 participants were included in the analysis. The prevalence of ever khat chewing in this study was 3418 (27.14%) with 95% CI 26.37% to 27.92%. From EDHS 2016 survey the high proportion of chewing khat was located in Diredawa, Harari, Southern Oromia, Somai and Benishangu Gumuz Regions. In spatial scan statistics analysis, a total of 126 clusters (RR= 4.02, P-value < 0.001) was identified. Age group 30-44 (AOR=1.44, 95% CI: 1.27, 1.62), being single (AOR=1.86, 95% CI: 1.64, 2.12), Muslim religion (AOR=4.91, 95% CI: 3.69, 8.19), media exposure (AOR=0.77, 95% CI: 0.68, 0.86), working status(AOR=0.45, 95% CI: 0.39, 0.53), alcohol drinking (AOR=2.91, 95% CI: 2.43, 3.39) and region were statistically significant factors affecting chewing Khat in Ethiopia. Conclusions: The prevalence of chewing chat in Ethiopia was high and located in Diredawa, Harari, Southern Oromia, Somai and Benishangu Gumuz Regions. Older age group, single, drinker, media unexposed, had no work and Muslim religion follower should be given spatial attention in reducing the prevalence of chewing khat. Therefore, it is good to teach the health impact of khat chewing through media. Keywords: Khat, Spatial distribution, Factors, Ethiopia
Efficacy and cultural appropriateness of psychosocial interventions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander paediatric burn patients and caregivers: a systematic review.
Authors: Williams Hayley , Hunter Kate , Clapham Kathleen , Ryder Courtney , Kimble Roy , Griffin Bronwyn
Published: December 2019

Background: Paediatric burns are highly painful and traumatising injuries that are overrepresented among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Paediatric burn patients’ pain remains poorly managed by pharmacological interventions, leading to increased anxiety, distress and trauma in patients and their caregivers. Non-pharmacological psychosocial interventions have been suggested as effective in reducing pain and psychological morbidities among paediatric burn patients and their caregivers; however, the degree of effectiveness and appropriateness for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is unclear. Methods: A non-date restricted systematic review was conducted through four databases. Studies published in English assessing psychosocial interventions on paediatric burn patients’ physical pain along with theirs and/or their caregiver’s anxiety, distress, or trauma symptoms were identified and included in this review. Included studies were assessed for their ability to reduce one of the outcomes of interests and for their reflection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ perspectives of health. Results: Of the 3,178 identified references, 17 were eligible. These include distraction based techniques (n=8), hypnosis/familiar imagery (n=2), therapeutic approaches (n=4), and patient preparation/procedural control (n=3). Distraction techniques incorporating procedural preparation reduced pain, while discharge preparation and increased ‘patient control’ reduced patient and caregiver anxiety; and internet based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy reduced short-term but not long-term post-traumatic stress symptoms. No interventions reflected Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ perspectives of health; and few targeted caregivers and focused on reducing their symptoms. Conclusions: The development and assessment of psychosocial interventions to appropriately meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander paediatric burn patients is required.
Are normoglycaemic individuals at risk of depression? The depression-dysglycaemic phenotype from a European population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Cuschieri Sarah , Mamo Julian
Published: December 2019

Background Depression is an ever more common chronic non communicable disease and its control constitutes a growing public health concern given its links with a number of co-morbidities, including diabetes mellitus. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depression at a population level across groups of different glycaemic status, whilst establishing its socioeconomic phenotypic characteristics.Methods A nationally representative cross-sectional study was conducted in Malta between 2014 and 2016. Participants were categorized into different sub-populations according to their glycaemic status. Depression prevalence rates and socio-economic characteristics for each sub-population were established. Multiple regression analysis was performed to identify links with depression.Results Depression was prevalent in 17.15% (CI 95%: 16.01 – 18.36) with a female predominance. The normoglycaemic sub-population had the highest depression rates. However, persons with known diabetes had a higher probability of having a history of depression (OR:2.36 CI 95%:1.12 – 4.96), as well as with being of the female gender, having lower educational status, having a history of smoking tobacco and having established cardiovascular disease.Conclusions Depression was highly prevalent among the normoglycaemic population especially as age progress. Physicians in primary care should implement a depression screening tool as part of their routine health check-ups, with special attention to those with cardiovascular co-morbidities and any signs of psycho-socio-economic burden.
From Fringe to Centre-Stage: experiences of mainstreaming health equity in a health research collaboration
Authors: Porroche-Escudero Ana , Popay Jennie , Ward Fiona , Ahmed Saiqa , Akeju Dorkas , Cloke Jane , Gabbay Mark , Hassan Shaima , Khan Koser , Kkhedmati-Morasae Esmaeil
Published: December 2019

Background: Action to address the structural determinants of health inequalities is prioritised in high level initiatives such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals and many national health strategies. Yet, the focus of much local policy and practice is on behaviour change. Research shows that whilst lifestyle approaches can improve population health, at best they fail to reduce health inequalities because they fail to address structural determinants of behaviour and health outcomes. In health research most efforts have been directed at three streams of work: understanding causal pathways; evaluating the equity impact of national policy; and developing and evaluating lifestyle/behavioural approaches to health improvement. As a result, there is a dearth of research on effective interventions to reduce the socio-economic drivers of inequalities in health that can be developed and implemented at a local level. Objective: To report on an evaluation of the attempt by the Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care North West Coast (CLAHRC-NWC) - a UK based collaboration- to build capacity amongst staff, partner organizations and members of the public for research and action on addressing structural determinants of health inequities. Methods: The evaluation used multiple qualitative methods including semi-structured interviews, focus groups and workshops (n=131 respondents including Public Advisers, university, NHS and local government partners). Routine data included HIAT feedback forms. Results: Utilising Normalisation Process Theory (NPT) and Gender Mainstreaming theory the evaluation illuminated: (i) the processes developed by CLAHRC NWC to integrate ways of thinking and acting to tackle the root causes of health inequities (i.e. to mainstream a health equity focus) and, (ii) the factors that promoted or frustrated these efforts. Conclusions: Findings highlight the role of processes aimed at developing and implementing a robust strategy for mainstreaming health equity as building blocks for transformative change in applied health research and care.
The Eagle Jugular Syndrome
Authors: Zamboni Paolo , Scerrati Alba , Menegatti Erica , Galeotti Roberto , Lapparelli Marcello , Traina Luca , Tessari Mirko , Ciorba Andrea , De Bonis Pasquale , Pelucchi Stefano
Published: December 2019

Background: The elongation of the styloid process is historically associated with two variants of the Eagle syndrome. The classic one, mainly characterized by pain and dysphagia, and the carotid variant characterized by pain and sometimes by cerebral ischemia. We observed a further variant characterized by a styloid elongation coursing adjacent to the transverse process of C1, causing significant compression of the internal jugular vein. Methods : We reviewed all the cases of Eagle syndrome, including the jugular variant, admitted in our Hospital in the last six years. We compared symptomatology, associated comorbidities and imaging. Data were statistically analyzed. Results : Overall 23 patients were admitted to the Hospital for symptomatic elongation of the styloid process, 11 male and 12 females. The jugular variant of the Eagle syndrome is clinically delineated by significant differences, as compared to the classic variant and carotid variants. Headache was the more prominent symptom (p<.009) as well as a documented peri-mesencephalic hemorrhage was the more significant comorbidity (p<.0003). The group classic-carotid variant was characterized by ipsilateral pain respect to the jugular variant (p<.0003). CT angiography with venous phase extended to the neck veins and imaging reconstruction is highly recommended as imaging technique, complemented by color-Doppler ultrasound. Conclusions : The elongation of the styloid process may have different paths which creates compression on the surrounding anatomical structures. There may be a possible association of jugular impingement by an elongated styloid process with symptoms.
Genetic Analyses of Epicuticular Waxes Associated with the Glossy Foliage of ‘White Persian’ Onion
Authors: Munaiz Eduardo D. , Havey Michael J.
Published: December 2019

Onion (Allium cepa) plants with lower amounts of epicuticular waxes on foliage suffer less damage from the insect pest Thrips tabaci (onion thrips). Glossy onion accumulates significantly less epicuticular wax compared with wild-type “waxy” onion, and a single recessive locus (gl) has been proposed to condition this phenotype. Genetic analyses of types and amounts of epicuticular waxes were completed using two segregating families from the cross of the glossy inbreds B9885 and B9897 (both originally selected from the onion cultivar White Persian) with waxy inbred B8667 and semiglossy (intermediate amounts of waxes) inbred B5351, respectively. F2 progenies were grown in greenhouses and scored visually for foliar phenotypes, and amounts and types of epicuticular waxes were determined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS). For one F2 family from the cross of glossy B9885 by waxy B8667, visually scored glossy vs. waxy foliage fit a 1:3 ratio and the phenotype mapped to chromosome 8 of onion. This same region on chromosome 8 was significantly associated with amounts of the ketone hentriacontanone-16 (H16) and fatty alcohols 1-octacosanol (Oct1) and 1-triacontanol (Tri1). Visually scored F2 progeny from the cross of glossy B9897 × semiglossy B5351 did not fit expected models for one or two recessive loci. Significant quantitative trait loci (QTL) were revealed on chromosomes 5 and 8 controlling amounts of H16. Epistasis was detected between regions on chromosomes 1 and 8, and a 100-fold increase of H16 was conditioned by homozygous genotypes for the B5351 region on chromosome 1 and the B9885 region on chromosome 8. The three QTL model explained 41% of the phenotypic variation for amounts of H16 at logarithm of odds of 16.6. Amounts of Oct1 and Tri1 in the B9897 × B5351 family were associated with a major QTL on chromosome 1, explaining 37% to 46% of the phenotypic variation, respectively. This research demonstrates that glossy foliage of ‘White Persian’ onion is conditioned by a recessive locus on chromosome 8 for which we propose the name glwp. These results are important for selection of onion with unique profiles of epicuticular waxes to reduce losses resulting from onion thrips.
Materials Flow Analysis as a Tool to Improve Solid Waste Management: A Case of Ankara
Authors: AYDIN Nesli
Published: December 2019

The progress of recent civilisation and the
associated growth in population worldwide has contributed considerably to the
increase in the quantity of waste produced. The ever-increasing consumption of
resources has resulted in high amounts of solid waste from domestic activities,
which can pose significant threats to the environment and human health. Waste
management and recycling activities have a complex and multifaceted mechanism
that requires comprehensive and integrated approaches. In this study, the
current status of municipal solid waste management in Ankara was identified and
waste streams were investigated by using Materials Flow Analysis (Stan 2
software). It was aimed to analyse material flows by visualising the waste
management system of Ankara. This study resulted that approximately 1.6 million
tonnes of solid waste is collected per year (4500 tonnes per day) in the
province. Almost 470 thousand tonnes of it is being used for methane production
and more than 400 thousand tonnes of compost is being produced each year. The
result of the model also points out that 286 thousand tonnes get accumulated in
landfills each year. This reveals the possible requirement for a capacity
investment of Mamak Landfill Area, which is already on the agenda of city
authorities.
A Política Comercial dos EUA:
Authors: Lameiras Leonardo Diniz , Menezes Roberto Goulart
Published: December 2019

Este artigo discute a política de comércio exterior dos governos de Barack Obama (2009–2017), com destaque para as principais diretrizes que a informaram e para os instrumentos normativos por ela priorizados para levar a cabo seus objetivos estratégicos. Entende-se que, ao longo desse período, em consonância com os eventos analisados, não houve uma trajetória uniforme quanto ao engajamento do país com o comércio internacional. O ativismo comercial que prevalecera no governo republicano antecessor cedeu lugar a uma postura de retraimento no domínio das negociações comerciais, logo sucedida por uma retomada de novas iniciativas. Argumenta-se que determinadas condicionantes, de natureza estrutural e conjuntural, tanto no nível sistêmico quanto doméstico, explicam a mudança de conteúdo dessa política, que abandona o perfil introvertido e passa a explorar novas opções estratégicas para a inserção internacional dos Estados Unidos (EUA) pela via da liberalização comercial. O artigo fundamenta-se na análise de documentos oficiais dos EUA, notadamente a chamada Agenda de Política Comercial, bem como nos argumentos apresentados em trabalhos acadêmicos por eminentes especialistas em política de comércio exterior dos EUA.
HISTOPATOLOGI Achlya heterosexualis PADA JARINGAN TUBUH IKAN LELE (Clarias batrachus L.)
Authors: Setyawati Siti Mukhlisoh
Published: December 2019

Achlya merupakan salah satu fungi golongan Sapro- legniaceae yang dapat menyebabkan penyakit saproleg- niasis pada ikan air tawar. Saprolegniasis  mudah dikenali dari munculnya massa hifa seperti kapas, berwarna putih hingga abu-abu/kecoklatan pada bagian tubuh ikan yang terinfeksi. Achlya heterosexualis merupakan jenis Achlya patogen yang di dapat dari lesi ikan terinfeksi saprolegnia- sis pada budidaya ikan di Purbalingga, Jawa Tengah. Lele (Clarias batrachus L.) merupakan ikan budidaya utama di Indonesia yang umum terserang saprolegniasis dari fase telur hingga dewasanya. Gambaran histologis pada ikan dewasa yang terinfeksi saprolegniasis dapat menjadi uku- ran untuk mengetahui  tingkat serangan dan  kemampuan infeksi dari jamur penyebab saprolegniasis. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kemampuan infeksi dari Ach- lya heterosexualis terhadap ikan lele dilihat dari pertum- buhan hifa jamur pada jaringan terinfeksi dan kerusakan jaringan yang diakibatkan oleh infeksi tersebut. Inokulasi jamur pada ikan dilakukan dengan memasukkan zoospora jamur ke dalam media hidup ikan. Sebelum inokulasi, ikan telah dikurangi lapisan mukus-nya dengan metode Ami- Momi dari Hatai dan Hoshiai (1994). Preparasi jaringan ter- infeksi dilakukan dengan metode parafin dan pewarnaan Alum Hematoxylin-Eosin oleh Mallory. Hasil pengamatan menunjukkan hifa dari zoospora Achlya heterosexualis yang diinokulasikan pada ikan lele dapat menginfeksi jaringan integumen dan derivatnya.   Hifa dapat tumbuh dan me- lekat kuat pada bagian sirip ikan. Hifa juga tumbuh jauh ke dalam jaringan integumen hingga mencapai lapisan stratum spongiosum. Kerusakan jaringan integumen yang diakibatkan oleh infeksi tersebut berupa hilangnya lapisan epidermis dan rusaknya lapisan dermis karena pertumbu- han hifa.
KESESUAIAN BUKU TEKS KURIKULUM 2013 UNTUK SISWA DENGAN KOMPETENSI DASAR MATA PELAJARAN MATEMATIKA KELAS VII
Authors: Choirunissa Lulu
Published: December 2019

Perubahan pendidikan yang diemban oleh Kurikulum 2013 menja- dikan guru harus merubah sistem pembelajarannya di kelas. Untuk itu pemerintah telah menyiapkan berbagai perangkat sebagai panduan di lapangan, diantaranya adalah buku teks pelajarn untuk guru dan untuk siswa. Oleh karena itu sudah seharusnya apabila buku teks ini sesuai den- gan kaidah kurikulum 2013. Namun pada kenyataannya pada buku teks siswa kelas VII untuk mata pelajaran Matematika terdapat beberapa hal yang tidak sesuai dengan ketentuan Kurikulum 2013. Untuk itu perlu di- lakukan analisis isi terhadap buku ini agar kekurangannya dapat menjadi perbaikan. Kajian ini bertujuan untuk melihat kesesuaian isi buku teks se- bagai pegangan siswa kelas VII mata pelajaran Matematika dengan Kom- petensi Dasar yang tercantum dalam Permendikbud No. 68 tahun 2013 tentang Kompetensi Dasar dan Struktur Kurikulum SMP/MTs. Hasil ka- jian ini menunjukkan bahwa terdapat beberapa Kompetensi Dasar di buku yang tidak berasal dari Permendikbud tersebut, dan juga terdapat bebera- pa Kompetensi Dasar yang ada di Permendikbud yang belum termuat di dalam buku teks.
Hydrology@Home: a distributed volunteer computing framework for hydrological research and applications
Authors: Agliamzanov Ramil , Sit Muhammed , Demir Ibrahim
Published: December 2019

Web-based distributed volunteer computing enables scientists to constitute platforms that can be used for computational tasks by using potentially millions of computers connected to the internet. It is a widely used approach for many scientific projects, including the analysis of radio signals for signs of extraterrestrial intelligence and determining the mechanisms of protein folding. User adoption and clients' dependence on the desktop software present challenges in volunteer computing projects. This study presents a web-based volunteer computing framework for hydrological applications that requires only a web browser to participate in distributed computing projects. The framework provides distribution and scaling capabilities for projects with user bases of thousands of volunteers. As a case study, we tested and evaluated the proposed framework with a large-scale hydrological flood forecasting model.
What is fire?
Authors: Semenov Igor Vitalievich
Published: December 2019

The definition of fire is given in the work, factors necessary for its occurrence and existence are indicated, attention is paid to the fire safety problem.
Основное содержание работы клубов психолого-педагогического сопровождения родителей, воспитывающих детей с ограниченными возможностями здоровья
Authors: Tokareva Olga Nikolaevna
Published: December 2019

This article substantiates the idea of creating psychological clubs for parents raising children with disabilities who need psychological and pedagogical assistance. Considerable attention is paid to increasing parental competence in the matters of upbringing, development, and social adaptation of “special” children, through psychological and pedagogical education; attracting parents to cooperation, in terms of common approaches to raising and educating the child.
Effects of Lipid Lowering Drugs on Arterial Stiffness: One More Way to Reduce Cardiovascular Risk?
Authors: Reklou Andromachi , Katsiki Niki , Karagiannis Asterios , Athyros Vasilios
Published: December 2019

Arterial stiffness (AS) is considered an independent predictor of cardiovascular disease
(CVD) events. Among lipid lowering drugs, statins have a beneficial effect on AS, independent of their
hypolipidaemic effect. Based on 3 meta-analyses and other studies, this effect is compound- and doserelated.
Potent statins at high doses are more effective than less powerful statins. Ezetimibe (± statin)
also seems to decrease AS in patients with dyslipidaemia. Fibrates have no effect on AS. Proprotein
convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors have data that beneficially affect all AS risk factors,
suggesting a beneficial effect on artery compliance. However, there is no direct measurement of
their effect on AS indices. In patients with dyslipidaemia, prescribing high dose statins (± ezetimibe)
will not only decrease low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels but also improve AS (in addition to
other effects). This effect on AS may contribute to the observed reduction in vascular events.
Our Phytochemical Research on Parthenium hysterophorous
Authors: Das Biswanath , Salvanna Nayaki , Kumar Rathod Aravind , Das Ratna
Published: December 2019

Parthenium hysterophorus (Compositae), an obnoxious weed, was investigated thoroughly
for its chemical constituents. We isolated a large number of pseudoguaianolides and other compounds.
Many of the isolates are new natural products. Parthenin, the major pseudoguaianolide, was
synthetically converted to its various analogues. Some of the constituents of the plant and of the prepared
analogues were found to possess significant antibacterial and anticancer properties. Here, we
review our phytochemical research on Parthenium hysterophorus informing of our work on the isolation,
structure elucidation, synthetic modifications, and bioevaluation of its chemical constituents.
Investigating Optimal Echo Times for Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping of Basal Ganglia Nuclei in the Healthy Brain
Authors: Fan Wenping , Wang Xue , Zhang Xingwen , Liu Mengqi , Meng Qinglin , Chen Zhiye
Published: December 2019

Background:

Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) technique had been used to
measure the magnetic susceptibility of brain tissue in clinical practice. However, QSM presented
echo-time (TE) dependence, and an appropriate number of echo-times (nTEs) for QSM became
more important to obtain the reliable susceptibility value.

Objective:

The aim of the study was to explore the optimal nTEs for quantitative susceptibility
mapping (QSM) measurements of basal ganglia nuclei in the healthy brain.

Methods:

3D multi-echo enhanced gradient recalled echo T2 star weighted angiography (ESWAN)
sequence was acquired on a 3.0T MR scanner for QSM analysis. Regions of interests
(ROIs) were drawn along the margin of the head of the caudate nucleus (HCN), putamen (Pu) and
globus pallidus (GP). The mean susceptibility value and standard deviation of the ROIs were derived
from the pixels within each region.

Results:

CV analysis demonstrated that TE6, TE8 and TE14 ESWAN sequences presented consistent
lower CV value (< 1) for QSM measure of HCN, Pu and GP. ANOVA identified that susceptibility
value showed no significant difference between TE6 and TE8 in HCN, Pu and GP (P <
0.05). ICC analysis demonstrated that the susceptibility value of TE6-TE8 had the highest ICC
value as compared with TE6-TE14 and TE8-TE14 in HCN, Pu and GP. Combined with the timeefficiency
of MRI scanning, TE6 sequence could not only provide the reliable QSM measurement
but also short imaging time.

Conclusions:

The current study identified that the optimal nTEs of ESWAN were 6 TEs (2.9ms ~
80.9ms) for QSM measurement of basal ganglia nuclei in the healthy brain.
Advancing a Stem Cell Therapy for Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: O’Neill Helen C. , Limnios Ioannis J. , Barnett Nigel L.
Published: December 2019

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a multifunctional monolayer located at the back of
the eye required for the survival and function of the light-sensing photoreceptors. In Age-related Macular
Degeneration (AMD), the loss of RPE cells leads to photoreceptor death and permanent blindness.
RPE cell transplantation aims to halt or reverse vision loss by preventing the death of photoreceptor
cells and is considered one of the most viable applications of stem cell therapy in the field of regenerative
medicine. Proof-of-concept of RPE cell transplantation for treating retinal degenerative disease,
such as AMD, has long been established in animal models and humans using primary RPE cells, while
recent research has focused on the transplantation of RPE cells derived from human pluripotent stem
cells (hPSC). Early results from clinical trials indicate that transplantation of hPSC-derived RPE cells
is safe and can improve vision in AMD patients. Current hPSC-RPE cell production protocols used in
clinical trials are nevertheless inefficient. Treatment of large numbers of AMD patients using stem cellderived
products may be dependent on the ability to generate functional cells from multiple hPSC lines
using robust and clinically-compliant methods. Transplantation outcomes may be improved by delivering
RPE cells on a thin porous membrane for better integration into the retina, and by manipulation of
the outcome through control of immune rejection and inflammatory responses.
Association of GRP78, HIF-1α and BAG3 Expression with the Severity of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Ijabi Roghayeh , Roozehdar Parisa , Afrisham Reza , Moradi-Sardareh Hemen , Kaviani Saeed , Ijabi Janat , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: December 2019

Introduction:

Parallel with the progression of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), the levels of
78KDa Glucose-Regulated Protein (GRP78) and Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) are increased as
they may activate the induction of anti-apoptotic proteins such as BCL2 Associated Athanogene 3 (BAG3).
Previous studies have indicated that there is a positive correlation among GRP78, HIF-1α and BAG3.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of metabolic factors involved in invasive CLL on apoptotic
factors.

Methods:

A case-control study was conducted on 77 patients diagnosed with CLL along with 100 healthy individuals.
Cell blood count was performed for all participants. According to Binet's classification, CLL patients
were divided into different groups. B cells were isolated from the peripheral blood of CLL patients by binding to
anti-CD19 beads. The expression of BAG3, GRP78 and HIF-1α genes was analyzed using the RT-PCR method.
To confirm the results of RT-PCR, western blot analysis was carried out.

Results:

The results showed that there was a strong association among the expression of BAG3, GRP78 and
HIF-1α. The stage of CLL in patients was highly correlated with the expression rate of each gene (p<0.001).
Accordingly, the western blot analysis indicated that the concentrations of GRP78 and HIF-1α were significantly
higher than the expression of BAG3, considering the stage of CLL.

Conclusion:

It was shown that increased expression of GRP78 and HIF-1α could result in the elevation of
BAG3, as well as the disease progression. Therefore, the role of these metabolic factors might be more pronounced
compared with the anti-apoptotic agents to monitor disease progression in CLL patients.
Exploring the Protective Potential of Carboxymethyl Terminalia catappa Polysaccharide on Blue Light Light-Emitting Diode Induced Corneal Damage
Authors: Chandel Lalit , Sharma Radhika , Rana Vikas
Published: December 2019

Background:

Excessive blue light light-emitting diode (LED) exposure and consequent oxidative
stress causes corneal damage and corneal injuries are the major problem arising these days due to
excessive use of mobile phone, TV, environment pollution, etc.

Objective:

In the present investigation, the protectiveness of carboxymethyl Terminalia catappa (CTC)
from blue light LED-induced corneal damage was explored.

Methods:

For this purpose, Terminalia catappa (TC) was functionalized by carboxymethylation and its
structural modification was confirmed by spectral attributes. Further, the CTC protective eye drop formulations
(0.025-1%, w/v) were prepared and evaluated for their capability of protection from blue light
LEDinduced corneal damage as compared to CTC protective eye gel (1.25-7%, w/v). The findings
pointed towards excellent protection of CTC gel formulations as compared to CTC eye drop formulations.
In addition, the prepared optimized CTC gel had thixotropic behavior as evident from percentage
structural recovery which was 1.75 fold higher than marketed formulation (I-Comfort, HPMC 2%, w/v).
The safety and non-toxicity of CTC protective eye drop and gel were confirmed by HET-CAM test.
Further, a rat eye model was implemented that mimic blue light light-emitting diode induced corneal
damage in day to day life to assess the protective effect of CTC protective eye drop and gel.

Results:

The order of protectiveness of CTC formulations was found to be CTC protective eye gel (4%,
w/v) (no corneal damage)>marketed eye gel (12.34% corneal damage)=CTC protective eye drop
(0.75%, w/v) (17.48% corneal damage)> marketed eye drop (51% corneal damage). The mechanism
behind the protective effect of CTC eye drop and gel was associated with good free radical scavenging
activity and corneal adhesive property of CTC. It is established from the present work that, carboxymethyl
Terminalia catappa has protective action against blue light light-emitting diode induced
corneal damage.
Design and Test of Auxiliary Harvesting Device of Apple
Authors: Wu Chao , Wang Yang , Sun Qun , Zhao Ying , Zhang Laigang
Published: December 2019

Background:

In the production process of apple orchard, the labor needed for apple harvest
accounts about 40% of the whole production process.

Objective:

The auxiliary device of apple harvest was designed to improve production efficiency and
reduce labor cost.

Methods:

This device was composed of four parts: fruit collecting mechanism, horizontal conveying
mechanism, vertical conveying mechanism and rotary packing mechanism, which assists farmers in
finishing the process from picking to packaging apples. Simulation and fruit damage analyses were
carried out by Solid works, fruit damage included three types: Single collision, Overlapping collision
and Multi-zone collision.

Results:

In the experiment, PID algorithm was employed to control device operate accurately. And
when the motor speed were 52 r/min, 56 r/min, 60 r/min, the collection efficiency were 4900 apples/
h, 5300 apples/h, 5700 apples/h and the fruit damage rates were 4%, 5%, 8%.

Conclusion:

The experimental results indicated that compared with the manual operation and visual
recognition-based picking robots this device’s production efficiency was improving without increasing
the fruit damage rate.