bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial distribution and variation of risk factors for poor consumption of foods rich in vitamin A among children age 6 -23 months in Ethiopia. Geographical weighted regression analysis
Authors: Tiruneh Sofonayas Abebaw , Fentie Dawit Tefera , Yigizaw Seblewongel Tigabu , Abebe Asnakew Asmamaw , Gelaye Kassahun Alemu
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Vitamin A deficiency is a major nutritional public health problem in poor societies. Dietary consumption of foods rich in vitamin A was low in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the spatial distribution and its determinants of dietary consumption of foods rich in vitamin A among children age 6-23 months in Ethiopia. Methods: A total of 3055 children were included and data were accessed from 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey dataset . The data was cleaned and weighted by STATA version 14.1 software and Microsoft excel. The Bernoulli model fitted using Kuldorff’s SaTScan version 9.6 software. ArcGIS version 10.7 software was used to visualize spatial distribution for poor consumption of foods rich in vitamin A. Geographical weighted regression analysis was employed by MGWR version 2.0 software. A P-value of less than 0.05 was used to declare statistically significant predictors locally. Results: Overall, 62% (95% CI: 60.56, 64.00) of children age 6-23 months had poor consumption of foods rich in Vitamin A in Ethiopia. Poor consumption of foods rich in vitamin A highly clustered at Afar, eastern Tigray, southeast of Amhara, and eastern Somali region of Ethiopia. Spatial scan statistics identified 142 primary spatial clusters located at Afar, the eastern part of Tigray, most part of Amhara and some part of Oromia Regional State of Ethiopia. Children living in the primary cluster were 46% more likely venerable poor consumption of foods rich in vitamin A than outside the window (RR= 1.46, LLR = 83.78, P < 0.001). Poor wealth status of the household, rural residence and living tropical area of Ethiopia were statistically significant predictors spatially. Conclusion: Overall, the consumption of foods rich in vitamin A was low and spatially non-random in Ethiopia. Poor wealth status of the household, rural residence and living tropical area were significant predictors for the consumption of foods rich vitamin A locally in Ethiopia. Policymakers and health planners should intervene in nutrition intervention at the identified hot spot areas to reduce poor consumption of foods rich in vitamin A among children age 6-23 months.
The role of stokvels in South Africa: a case of economic transformation of a municipality
Authors: J.K. Bophela Mduduzi , Khumalo Njabulo
Published: October 2019

Stokvel is a type of ‘rotating savings and credit associations’ found only in South Africa (SA) which have an estimated value of R49 billion and a membership of 11,5 million, in a country with a populace of 57million and an informal economy with a total value of R160 billion – yet remain a hidden sector of the economy. This confirms that there is a shortage of the consulted literature on the model for integrating the stokvels into the economic policy framework of a municipality. Therefore, developing the stokvel industry could be key to poverty alleviation, reduction of unemployment and broadening equitable access to the ownership of the economy and capital accumulation; thus, improving the livelihoods and raising the standard of living. The objective of the paper is to determine the economic contribution factors of stokvels in the economic transformation of SA at a municipality level. The paper used a mixed methods design. A sample size of 395 stokvel groups’ respondents for the quantitative research was selected using a simple random probability sampling method. The response rate was 100 percent. For the qualitative part, six policy-makers were interviewed using the purposive non-probability sampling method. The paper revealed that the money saving and investment, business opportunities and job creation, and policy development were the main economic contribution factors of stokvels in SA at the municipalities. The paper recommended for policy-makers to formulate an economic transformation policy framework inclusive of stokvels and to adopt their economic contribution factors.
Removal of low-concentration phosphorus by efficient phosphorus removal composite-based ecological floating beds
Authors: Liu Yan , Lv Juanjuan , Singh Rajendra Prasad
Published: October 2019

In order to strengthen the effect of ecological floating beds on the removal of low-concentration phosphorus (P) in water, the efficient P removal composite (EPRC), which is a high-efficiency P removal material developed in the current work as the substrate for the Ipomoea aquatica floating beds, was introduced into the solar chamber. The EPRC dosage (2g/L) and the optimal number of Ipomoea aquatica plants (6 plants/10 L) suitable for the floating beds were determined experimentally. Results revealed that EPRC and Ipomoea aquatica composite floating beds had the best P removal effect among the three floating beds. Moreover, the root growth ratio of Ipomoea aquatica in the composite floating bed and the plant-only floating bed was 1.90 and 1.25, respectively. The stem growth ratio of Ipomoea aquatica in the composite floating bed and plant-only floating beds was 1.54 and 1.21, respectively. The leaching experiments showed that the leaching of heavy metals from the EPRC was negligible.
Hydrophobicity and iron coagulation of extracellular polymeric substance from colonial Microcystis
Authors: Zhang Peiliang , Jia Shujie , Zhang Xiaohong , Li Jing , Lu Shan , Li Pengfu
Published: October 2019

The bloom-forming cyanobacterium Microcystis occurs mainly as colonial aggregates under the natural conditions. This paper investigated the hydrophobicity and iron coagulation of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) from colonial Microcystis in order to understand the impact of EPS on the water treatment process. The higher contents of dissolved EPS (dEPS) and bound EPS (bEPS, mucilaginous matrix around the cells), lower dEPS/bEPS ratio and greater negative zeta potential of bEPS and dEPS were found in colonial Microcystis compared with unicellular Microcystis. XAD resin fractionation analysis indicated that the hydrophobicity could be ranked in an order as follows: bEPS > dEPS > dissolved extracellular organic matter (dEOM) for all the Microcystis strains. Correlation analysis showed that there was a statistically significant correlation between the amounts of carbohydrate and dissolved organic carbon in the hydrophobic fraction of EOM (dEOM, dEPS and bEPS), indicating that the hydrophobicity of Microcystis EOM might be related to carbohydrate. The coagulation experiment showed that for each colonial Microcystis strain, the removal efficiency of bEPS was higher than that of dEPS within the pH range from 3 to 10. The implications of the EPS characteristics were further discussed with respect to water treatment.
Pérez-Price, A.R. (2017). Memorias de Bocas Town. La vida y tiempo de José Antonio Price, Panamá, República de Panamá: Editorial Fuga Editor
Authors: Camacho-Navarro Enrique
Published: October 2019

Este libro, anunciado como una biografía evidentemente de uno de sus parientes, como se aprecia en el mismo apellido del personaje central y del autor, es decir, Price, se convierte a través de sus páginas en una escritura que poco a poco, paso a paso, va atrapando al lector interesado en la historia del Circuncaribe, aquella región que, bañada por el Mar Caribe en la parte insular y continental, comparte entre sí una trayectoria histórica y político-social de siglos.
Identidades, naturalezas y poderes
Authors: Martínez Dueñas William Andrés
Published: October 2019

El tema de la identidad en antropología quizá nunca pierda relevancia, preguntas tales como ¿de qué manera me represento? o ¿qué soy? sea en primera, segunda o tercera persona, han sido parte de la historia (implícita o explícita) de la antropología en todos sus periodos; incluyendo la pregunta si el Otro debe o puede ser representado. Como lo planteó Trouillot (1991), la antropología emerge en la episteme moderna-occidental como consecuencia de la necesidad de los modernos por identificarse en relación con sus otros. Así surgió la disciplina encargada de producir conocimiento sistemático sobre la diferencia cultural, produciendo las condiciones que acreditan a un grupo de personas autodenominadas antropólogos a ser los peritos de la certificación de identidades étnicas, con un diferenciado y quizá minoritario sector que, gracias a la reflexión postcolonial, se preguntan por su papel como productores de alter-representaciones.
Effects of Pterostilbene on Diabetes, Liver Steatosis and Serum Lipids
Authors: Gómez-Zorita Saioa , Milton-Laskíbar Iñaki , Aguirre Leixuri , Fernández-Quintela Alfredo , Xiao Jianbo , Portillo María P.
Published: October 2019

:

Pterostilbene, a phenolic compound derived from resveratrol, possesses greater bioavailability
than its parent compound due to the presence of two methoxyl groups. In this review, the beneficial
effects of pterostilbene on diabetes, liver steatosis and dyslipidemia are summarized. Pterostilbene
is a useful bioactive compound in preventing type 1 diabetes, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
in animal models. Concerning type 1 diabetes, the main mechanisms described to justify the
positive effects of this phenolic compound are increased liver glycogen content and hepatic
glucokinase and phosphofructokinase activities, the recovery of pancreatic islet architecture, cytoprotection
and a decrease in serum and pancreatic pro-inflammatory cytokines. As for type 2 diabetes,
increased liver glucokinase and glucose-6-phosphatase and decreased fructose-1,6-biphosphatase
activities are reported. When insulin resistance is induced by diets, a greater activation of insulin signaling
cascade has been reported, increased cardiotrophin-1 levels and liver glucokinase and glucose-
6-phosphatase activities, and a decreased fructose-1,6-biphosphatase activity. Data concerning
pterostilbene and liver steatosis are scarce so far, but the reduction in oxidative stress induced by
pterostilbene may be involved since oxidative stress is related to the progression of steatosis to
steatohepatitis. Finally, pterostilbene effectively reduces total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and serum
triglyceride levels, while increases HDL-cholesterol in animal models of dyslipidemia.
Neurophysiology and Treatment of Disorders of Consciousness Induced by Traumatic Brain Injury: Orexin Signaling as a Potential Therapeutic Target
Authors: Tang Huiling , Zhu Qiumei , Li Wei , Qin Siru , Gong Yinan , Wang Hong , Shioda Seiji , Li Shanshan , Huang Jin , Liu Baohu , Fang Yuxin , Liu Yangyang , Wang Shenjun , Guo Yongming , Xia Qing , Guo Yi , Xu Zhifang
Published: October 2019

Background:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can cause disorders of consciousness (DOC) by impairing
the neuronal circuits of the ascending reticular activating system (ARAS) structures, including the hypothalamus,
which are responsible for the maintenance of the wakefulness and awareness. However, the effectiveness of drugs
targeting ARAS activation is still inadequate, and novel therapeutic modalities are urgently needed.

Methods:

The goal of this work is to describe the neural loops of wakefulness, and explain how these elements
participate in DOC, with emphasis on the identification of potential new therapeutic options for DOC induced by
TBI.

Results:

Hypothalamus has been identified as a sleep/wake center, and its anterior and posterior regions have
diverse roles in the regulation of the sleep/wake function. In particular, the posterior hypothalamus (PH) possesses
several types of neurons, including the orexin neurons in the lateral hypothalamus (LH) with widespread
projections to other wakefulness-related regions of the brain. Orexins have been known to affect feeding and
appetite, and recently their profound effect on sleep disorders and DOC has been identified. Orexin antagonists
are used for the treatment of insomnia, and orexin agonists can be used for narcolepsy. Additionally, several
studies demonstrated that the agonists of orexin might be effective in the treatment of DOC, providing novel
therapeutic opportunities in this field.

Conclusion:

The hypothalamic-centered orexin has been adopted as the point of entry into the system of consciousness
control, and modulators of orexin signaling opened several therapeutic opportunities for the treatment
of DOC.
Effect of a Peptide Construct on Differentiated Macrophage MMP-2 and MMP-9 Levels of Varicose Patients
Authors: Esfandiari Golnaz , Biranvand Azim S. , Poursaleh Adeleh , Kakavandi Naser , Fattahi Fahimeh , Ghasempour Ghasem , Bahraini Elham , Khosravi Mohsen , Najafi Mohammad
Published: October 2019

Background:

The Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMPs) secreted from macrophages can affect the extracellular
matrix remodeling process and improve varicose veins.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to investigate the MMP-2 and MMP-9 gene expression and activity levels in the
differentiated macrophages M2 of subjects with varicose veins, and to evaluate a peptide construct on their catalytic
functions.

Methods:

The macrophages were differentiated from the monocytes using M-CSF. The MMP-2 and MMP-9 gene
expression and activity levels were measured by RT-qPCR and Zymography techniques, respectively. A peptide
construct (ESLCG) was predicted with bioinformatics tools, and was prepared for the study of enzyme functions
as compared to Batimastat. Furthermore, the docking studies were obtained for the evaluation of interactions
between peptide construct, Batimastat and enzyme 3D structures.

Results:

The results showed significant increases in MMP2 and MMP9 gene expression levels (P <0.001 and
P <0.004, respectively) and gelatinolytic activities (P <0.001 and P <0.0001, respectively) in the macrophages. In
agreement with the inhibitory effects of Batimastat, the peptide construct inhibited the MMP-2 and MMP-9 gelatinolytic
activities up to 6.8 and 6.5 folds in the concentration of 150 µM. The docking analyses showed that the
Lys187, Arg98, Leu49, Gly189, Leu190, Met97, Tyr53 and Phe57 residues of MMP-2 and the Leu187, His190,
Glu402, His401, His405 and His411 residues of MMP-9 are interacted with the atoms of Batimastat and ESLCG
peptide.

Conclusion:

The ESLCG peptide may be applied as an inhibitor of MMP-2 and MMP-9 enzymes in the subjects
with varicose veins.
In vivo Antiplasmodial Activity of Curcumin-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers
Authors: Rashidzadeh Hamid , Salimi Mahsa , Sadighian Somayeh , Rostamizadeh Kobra , Ramazani Ali
Published: October 2019

Background:

It was shown that curcumin (Cur) has anti-plasmodium activity, however, its weak bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and limited chemical stability has restricted its application in clinical usages. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are a type of drug-delivery systems (DDSs) which their core matrix is composed of both solid and liquid lipids.

Objective:

The aim of the current study was to prepare and characterize curcumin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (Cur-NLC) for malaria treatment.

Methods:

For the production of NLC, coconut oil and cetyl palmitate were selected as a liquid and solid lipid, respectively. In order to prepare the Cur-NLC, the microemulsion method was applied. General toxicity assay on Artemia salina and also hemocompatibility was investigated. Antimalarial activity was studied on mice infected with Plasmodium berghei.

Results:

The NLCs mean particle size and polydispersity index (PI) was 145 nm and 0.3, respectively. Moreover, the zeta potential of the Cur-NLC was −25 mV, as well as, the NLCs showed pseudo-spherical shape which revealed via transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The loading capacity and encapsulation efficacy of the obtained Cur-NLC were 3.1 ± 0.015% and 74 ± 3.32%, respectively. In vitro, Cur release profiles showed a sustained-release pattern up to 5 days in synthesized Cur-NLC. The results of in vivo anti-plasmodial activity against P. berghei revealed that antimalarial activity of Cur-NLC was high 2-fold compared with bare Cur at the tested dosage level.

Conclusion: :

The results of this study showed that NLC would be used as a potential nanocarrier for the treatment of malaria.
Effect of Solution Properties and Operating Parameters on Needleless Electrospinning of Poly(Ethylene Oxide) Nanofibers Loaded with Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Ramakrishnan Ramprasath , Gimbun Jolius , Ramakrishnan Praveen , Ranganathan Balu , Reddy Samala Murali Mohan , Shanmugam Ganesh
Published: October 2019

Background:

This paper presents the effect of solution properties and operating parameters
of polyethylene oxide (PEO) based nanofiber using a wire electrode-based needleless electrospinning.

Methods:

The feed solution was prepared using a PEO dissolved in water or a water-ethanol mixture.
The PEO solution is blended with Bovine Serum Albumin protein (BSA) as a model drug to study the
effect of the electrospinning process on the stability of the loaded protein. The polymer solution properties
such as viscosity, surface tension, and conductivity were controlled by adjusting the solvent and
salt content. The morphology and fiber size distribution of the nanofiber was analyzed using scanning
electron microscopy.

Results:

The results show that the issue of a beaded nanofiber can be eliminated either by increasing
the solution viscosity or by the addition of salt and ethanol to the PEO-water system. The addition of
salt and solvent produced a high frequency of smaller fiber diameter ranging from 100 to 150 nm. The
encapsulation of BSA in PEO nanofiber was characterized by three different spectroscopy techniques
(i.e. circular dichroism, Fourier transform infrared, and fluorescence) and the results showed the BSA is
well encapsulated in the PEO matrix with no changes in the protein structure.

Conclusion:

This work may serve as a useful guide for a drug delivery industry to process a nanofiber at
a large and continuous scale with a blend of drugs in nanofiber using a wire electrode electrospinning.
A Paradigm Shift in the Development of Anti-Candida Drugs
Authors: Gowda D.V. , Afrasim M. , Meenakshi S.I. , Manohar M. , Hemalatha S. , Siddaramaiah H. , Sathishbabu P. , Rizvi S.M. Danish , Hussain T. , Kamal M.A.
Published: October 2019

Background:

The considerable increase in the incidence of Candida infection in recent times has prompted the use of numerous antifungal agents, which has resulted in the development of resistance towards various antifungal agents. With rising Candida infections, the need for design and development of novel antifungal agents is in great demand. However, new therapeutic approaches are very essential in preventing the mortality rate and improving the patient outcome in those suffering from Candida infections.

Objective:

The present review objective is to describe the burden, types of Candidiasis, mechanism of action of antifungal agents and its resistance and the current novel approaches used to combat candidiasis.

Methods:

We have collected and analyzed 135 different peer-reviewed literature studies pertinent to candidiasis. In this review, we have compiled the major findings from these studies.

Results and Conclusion:

The review describes the concerns related to candidiasis, its current treatment strategy, resistance mechanisms and imminent ways to tackle the problem. The review explored that natural plant extracts and essential oils could act as sources of newer therapeutic agents, however, the focus was on novel strategies, such as combinational therapy, new antibodies, utilization of photodynamic therapy and adaptive transfer primed immune cells with emphasis on the development of effective vaccination.
Reduction of Resting Energy Expenditure and Sarcopenic Obesity in Adults with Overweight and Obesity: A Brief Report
Authors: Tannir Hana , Kreidieh Dima , Itani Leila , El Masri Dana , El Ghoch Marwan
Published: October 2019

Background and Aim:

The last decade has seen the emergence of a new condition, describing the coexistence of obesity and sarcopenia, termed Sarcopenic Obesity (SO). The aim of this study was to assess the potential association between SO and reduced Resting Energy Expenditure (REE).

Methods:

Body composition and REE were measured using a bioimpedance analyser (Tanita BC-418) and Indirect Calorimeter (Vmax Encore 229), respectively in 89 adults with overweight or obesity of both genders, referred to the Outpatient Clinic of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Beirut Arab University (Lebanon). Participants were then categorized on the basis of having SO or not.

Results :

Thirty-nine of the 89 participants met the criteria for SO (43.8%), and these participants displayed a significantly lower REE per unit body weight than those in the group without SO (19.02 ± 2.26 vs. 20.87 ± 2.77; p = 0.001). Linear regression analysis showed that the presence of SO decreases REE by 1.557 kcal/day for each kg of body weight (β = -1.557; CI = -0.261 – (-0.503); p = 0.004), after adjusting for age and gender.

Conclusion :

SO appears to be present in a high proportion of treatment-seeking adults with overweight or obesity of both genders, and it seems to be associated with a reduced REE, compared with those without SO. Future studies are needed to clarify whether this may influence clinical outcomes.
Molecularly Imprinted Sensor for Ascorbic Acid Based on Gold Nanoparticles and Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Peng Youyuan , Miao Qingshan
Published: October 2019

Background:

L-Ascorbic acid (AA) is a kind of water soluble vitamin, which is mainly
present in fruits, vegetables and biological fluids. As a low cost antioxidant and effective scavenger
of free radicals, AA may help to prevent diseases such as cancer and Parkinson’s disease. Owing to
its role in the biological metabolism, AA has also been utilized for the therapy of mental illness,
common cold and for improving the immunity. Therefore, it is very necessary and urgent to develop
a simple, rapid and selective strategy for the detection of AA in various samples.

Methods:

The molecularly imprinted poly(o-phenylenediamine) (PoPD) film was prepared for the
analysis of L-ascorbic acid (AA) on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) - multiwalled carbon nanotubes
(MWCNTs) modified glass carbon electrode (GCE) by electropolymerization of o-phenylenediamine
(oPD) and AA. Experimental parameters including pH value of running buffer and scan rates were
optimized. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, cyclic
voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were utilized for the characterization of
the imprinted polymer film.

Results:

Under the selected experimental conditions, the DPV peak currents of AA exhibit two distinct
linear responses ranging from 0.01 to 2 μmol L-1 and 2 to 100 μmol L-1 towards the concentrations
of AA, and the detection limit was 2 nmol L-1 (S/N=3).

Conclusion:

The proposed electrochemical sensor possesses excellent selectivity for AA, along with
good reproducibility and stability. The results obtained from the analysis of AA in real samples
demonstrated the applicability of the proposed sensor to practical analysis.
The Evaluation of Potential Cytotoxic Effect of Different Proton Pump Inhibitors on Different Human Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Qasem Aya , Kasabri Violet , AbuRish Eman , Bustanji Yasser , Al-Hiari Yusuf , Al-Abbasi Reem , Abu-Irmaileh Bashaer , Alalawi Sundus
Published: October 2019

Objective :

To assess the differential cytotoxic activity of PPIs on different human cancer cell lines;
namely A549 lung cancer, CACO-2 colorectal cancer, MCF-7 breast cancer, and PANC-1 pancreatic cancer,
A375 skin melanoma.

Methods:

In this study, the five human cancer cell lines and human non-cancerous fibroblasts were treated
with increasing concentration of PPIs Omeprazole (OMP), Esomeprazole (ESOM), and Lansoprazole (LANSO)
(50-300μM), over 24h, 48h, and 72h. Cell viability was determined using 3-(4,5- Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-
diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and the IC50 values of PPIs were measured. The most sensitive cell line
A375 was used for further investigation. The cytotoxic effects of LANSO on these cells were assessed using
Annexin-V Propidium Iodide (AV-PI) flow cytometry. As of action mechanism; anti-inflammatory effects of each
PPIs and PPIs-DOXO combination therapy on LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages were assessed.

Results:

Dose and time dependence cytotoxic activity of PPIs on human cancer cell lines was founded. Unlike
DOXO; All PPIs had a selective cytotoxic effect in the normal fibroblasts. Unlike the equipotent OMP and
ESOM; LANSO was the most potent drug with IC50 values at 72h of 99, 217, 272, 208, 181μM against A375,
A549, CACO-2, MCF-7, and PANC-1, respectively. AV-PI flow cytometry revealed dose-dependent apoptotic
effects of LANSO alone and substantially enhanced in DOXO-co-treatments. Interestingly unlike ESOM and
OMP, LANSO proved more effective than indomethacin in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. None of
the tested compounds, as well as indomethacin, exerted any cytotoxicity against RAW 264.7 macrophages.
PPIs-DOXO lacked potential synergistic combination antiinflammation therapies.

Conclusion:

This study provides the evidence that PPIs induce a direct and differential cytotoxic activity against
human cancer cell line by the induction of the apoptosis. Moreover, PPIs increase cancer cell lines sensitivity to
doxorubicin via apoptosis augmentation. Nevertheless, PPIs-DOXO lacked potential synergistic combination
therapies in either antiproliferation or anti-inflammation.
Conversion of Benzimidazoles, Imidazothiazoles and Imidazoles into more Potent Central Nervous System Acting Drugs
Authors: Saganuwan Saganuwan A.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Benzimidazole (albendazole), imidazothiazole (levamisole) and imidazole (euconazole)
are used in chemotherapy of helminthosis and mycosis respectively, with central nervous system
(CNS) side effects. But only a limited number of azole groups are used clinically in the treatment of CNS
diseases, which are on increase and could not be cured permanently. Due to increased incidence of more
challenging new CNS diseases, there is a need for the synthesis of more potent CNS drugs.

Methods:

Hence, literature studies were carried out for the identification of common pathways for the
synthesis of the three groups of compounds, their CNS properties and the possibility of modifying them to
potent CNS drugs.

Results:

Findings have shown that gloxal with formaldehyde in the presence of ammonia can be converted
into imidazole, imidazothiazole and benzimidazole via distillation, condensation, alkylation, acylation,
oxidation, cyclization, sulphation and amidation. However, agents such as phosphorus pentoxide, ethanolic
potassium hydroxide, sodium hypochlorite, sodium hexafluroaluminate, aniline, calcium acetate,
calcium benzoate, sodium hydroxide, aromatic aldehydes, bromoketones, alpha dicarbonyl compounds
among others are used as reagents. The furan ring(s) may have a strong capability of penetrating CNS for
the treatment of neurological disorders. The products from the three groups have agonistic, antagonistic,
mixed agonistic and mixed antagonistic depressant and stimulant activities due to the presence of
heteroatoms such as nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur. Imidazole may be the most potent with best characteristics
of CNS penetrability and activity followed by imidazothiazole and benzimidazole.

Conclusion:

Azole group is common to all the three classes and may be responsible for some of their CNS
effects. The resultant compounds could act via all neurotransmitters, voltage and ligand-gated ion channels
and may be chiral.
ПОРУШЕННЯ МЕТАБОЛІЗМУ ЩАВЛЕВОЇ КИСЛОТИ У ХВОРИХ НА ОКСАЛАТНИЙ НЕФРОЛІТІАЗ ТА СПОСОБИ ЇХ КОРЕКЦІЇ
Authors: Скоропад Н. Т.
Published: October 2019

Резюме. Сечокам’яна хвороба (СКХ) є однією з найпоширеніших патологій сечо-видільної системи і займає друге місце у структурі урологічних захворювань після інфекцій сечовивідних шляхів. При аналізі хімічного складу конкрементів встановлено, що більшість (до 70-80% випадків) з них містить солі щавлевої кислоти та кальцій.

Мета дослідження: вивчити особливості порушень метаболізму щавлевої кислоти у хворих на оксалатний нефролітіаз, вдосконалити способи їх корекції та розробити ефективні схеми метафілактики оксалатного нефролітіазу.

В дослідженні приймали участь 120 людей, які були розділені на 3 групи в залежності від лікування після проведення дистанційної літотрипсії чи самостійного відходження конкременту верхніх сечових шляхів.

Концентрація гліколату в сечі хворих після комплексного лікування у ІІІ групі становили 620,2±49,2 мкмоль/л, тобто практично досягла рівня здорових.

У І та ІІ групах рівень гліколату у сечі був значно нижчим і не досягав фізіологічних норм, але спостерігалась тенденція до збільшення.

Включення в терапію антиоксидантного засобу – аргініну та комплексу вітамінів призводить до зниження рівня оксалурії до верхніх границь норми у ІІІ групі пацієнтів в сечі 456,91±37,70 до 319,81±26,36 мкмоль/л і крові з 26,94±1,52 до 22,46±1,54 мкмоль/л (р<0,05).

Спостерігалось зниження рівня кальцію у крові та сечі у пацієнтів І та ІІ груп, хороших результатів досягнуто в ІІІ групі хворих при застосуванні в комплексній терапії антиоксиданта аргініну.

У результаті запропонованої метафілактики уролітіазу досягнуто збільшення концентрації цитрату в сечі та крові.

Результати метафілактичної терапії протягом 3 років показали, що у пацієнтів ІІІ групи кількість рецидивів оксалатного нефролітіазу був нижчий ніж у І та ІІ групах і становив 11,2 % при показниках рецидивів 28,0 % та 22,0 % у І та ІІ групах відповідно.
Schema activation strategy in reading comprehension to improve student’s interest
Authors: Saputra Andika Ari
Published: October 2019

Abstract: This research is aimed to improve the reading comprehension through schema activation strategy. Classroom Action Research (CAR) was conducted in two cycles and each cycle consisted of four phases. They were planning, acting, observing, and reflecting. The subjects of the study were 34 students of Class VIII A of SMP Muhammadiyah 1 Godean. There were two forms of data in this study. The qualitative data were collected through observation and interview. The data were presented in the form of field notes and interview transcripts. Then, the quantitative data were collected through Pre-test, Posttest I, and Posttest II. In reference to the application of the two cycles, the results of the research revealed that use of schema activation strategy successfully improved the students‘ reading comprehension. The students‘ interest and attention in the process of teaching and learning English, especially reading improved. They were also able to explore many words related to the topic of the lesson. In relation to their comprehension of English texts, the students were able to identify main ideas and supporting details of paragraphs correctly. Strategi skema pada materi reading comprehension untuk meningkatkan ketertarikan siswaPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan pemahaman reading comprehension melalui penggunaan Schema Activation Strategy. Dalam melakukan penelitian ini, Peneliti menggunakan Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK) sebagai metode penelitian. Penelitian dilakukan dalam dua siklus dan masing-masing siklus terdiri dari empat fase. Yaitu fase persiapan, aksi, observasi dan refleksi. Subjek penelitian adalah 34 siswa dari kelas VIII A SMP Muhammadiyah 1 Godean. Ada dua macam data yang dihimpun pada penelitian ini. Data kualitatif dikumpulkan melalui observasi dan wawancara. Kemudian data dipresentasikan dalam bentuk catatan dan transkip wawancara. Sedangkan, data kuantitatif dikumpulkan melalui Pre-Test, Post-test I, dan Post-test II. Hasil yang didapatkan setelah menerapkan dua siklus, yaitu penggunaan Schema Activation Strategy berjalan sukses meningkatkan pemahaman siswa pada bab Reading. Minat siswa dan perhatian dalam proses pengajaran dan pembelajaran bahasa Inggris, khususnya peningkatan dalam pemahaman Reading. Para siswa mampu mengeksplorasi banyak kata terkait topik pelajaran. Para siswa juga  mampu memahami teks Bahasa Inggris, siswa juga mampu untuk mengindentifikasi ide pokok dan juga detail paragaraf  secara benar.
Effect of Sintering Temperature on the Fabrication of Ceramic Hollow Fibre Membrane
Authors: Paiman Syafikah H , Rahman Mukhlis A A , Othman Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan , Ahmad Siti Halimah
Published: October 2019

Recently, ceramic membrane gradually acquired attention from researchers due to the advantages of ceramic’s behavior, which allows the ceramic to overcome the limitations of using polymeric membrane. This work focused on the fabrication of ceramic hollow fibre membrane from a ceramic suspension solution containing yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ), polyethersulfone (PESf), N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) and dispersants using combined phase inversion sintering technique. In this study, ceramic hollow membrane precursors were sintered at different sintering temperature ranging between 1250°C and 1400°C. The influences of sintering temperature on the microstructure, porosity and pore size distribution, mechanical strength and pure water flux of ceramic hollow fibre membrane were investigated in detail. The results show an asymmetric structure of YSZ hollow fibre membrane containing finger-like structure and sponge-like structure. The sponge-like structure can serve as a separation layer, while finger-like-structure performs as a supported layer. It is observed that sintering process caused a significant densification of sponge-like structure (microstructure). Sintering at temperature 1400°C shows the formation of non- interconnected voids. Sintering at 1300°C is sufficient enough having a mechanical strength of 227.55MPa with an apparent porosity of 45.09% and PWF of 118.39L.m¯².hr¯¹.
Predicting of Parameters Affecting on PE Wax Powder Size Distribution and Shape in Atomization Process
Authors: Madua Ubonwan , Prasertsit Kulchanat , Innachitra Paiboon , Keatkhunboot Tanakorn
Published: October 2019

The aim of this work is to study the parameters affecting on the particle size distribution and shape of Polyethylene wax (PE wax) powders in atomization process. Effect of liquid flow rate, melting temperature and air pressure are studied parameters. External mixing two fluid nozzles is used and temperature is controlled at 200˚C to avoid freeze-up within the liquid cap. PE wax is melted at various temperatures from 120˚C to 180˚C and is atomized with air pressures from 1 to 7 bar. Particle size and size distribution are determined by Particle Sizing Unified System (Mastersizer, 2000). Using 1 bar of air pressure, 140˚C of melting temperature and 3.0:1.5 of ALR gives the PE wax powders size that smaller than 200 micron and high bulk density. Moreover, smoothly and silky surface of PE wax powders are obtained.
Optimization Study of the Solid Propellant (Rocket Fuel) Based on Extracted Bitumen of Indonesian Natural Buton Asphalt
Authors: Murachman Bardi , Sajono Sajono , Afandi Fauzan , Khaeri Johan
Published: October 2019

The asphalt propellant for rockets has been investigated since 1960. This material has been developed with the variation of fuels, oxidizer, binders, metal elements and additives. As solid propellant, it has some advantages and disadvantages during the implementation. At present, Extracted Buton asphalt has been studied as an alternative propellant fuels. It is a natural asphalt, extracted from Buton island asphalt rock. When the extract of buton asphalt is mixed with oxidizer, binder, and metal powder, it can be functioned as propellant which is able to release high intensity of energy, have strong thrust and power to fly the rocket. This optimization study of solid propellant was conducted by mixing the Buton asphalt as fuel, oxidizer, metal element and other additives to form a solid propellant. The oxidizer consisted of potassium nitrate (KNO3) and potassium perchlorate (KClO4). The variations of KClO4/KNO3, propellant density and the ratio of the nozzle diameter were also conducted in order to find the best propellant composition and the optimum operating conditions to produce enough power while maintain the integrity of the rocket. The main parameters such as the propellant’s thrust (F) and the specific impulse (Isp) were examined. The results showed that higher composition of KClO4/KNO3 gave the higher value of the thrust and the specific impulse. KClO4/KNO3 levels above the 1:1 ratio produced an explosive properties at the time of ignition. The tendency of propellant to explode during ignition process was also observed. The optimum condition was obtained at the KClO4/KNO3 ratio of 1:1 , the propellant density was 1.900 gram/cm3 and Ae/A* was 3.33. These conditions generated impulse value that last for 277.07 seconds, average thrust of 14.082 N, and average rate of combustion of 0,24 cm/second. Therefore, it can be concluded that propellant with fuel from extracted of Buton asphalt can be used as an alternative propellant for rocket.
Equilibrium Study on Reactive Extraction of Lactic Acid with Tri-n – Butyl Phosphate in n - Hexane
Authors: Mulyono Panut , Pardah Anita
Published: October 2019

Extraction of carboxylic acids from dilute aqueous solution using traditional solvents such as ketones, alcohols, ethers, and ester is inefficient because the distribution ratio is rather low. Reactive extraction which exploits reversible chemical complexation is an effective separation process for extraction of carboxylic acids from aqueous streams such as fermentation broths and wastewaters. In the extraction process, selection of the solvent is an important aspect to be considered. Considering its solubility in water, cost and availability, tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) seems to be an attractive solvent for the extraction of lactic acid from aqueous solution. The purpose of this experiment is to study the equilibrium of the reactive extraction of lactic acid in aqueous solution with TBP in n-hexane. The parameters studied in this experiment were initial concentration of lactic acid in the aqueous phase, TBP concentration in n-hexane phase, and the extraction temperature. The experiments at ambient temperature were carried out using a separatory funnel, while the experiments at other than ambient temperature were carried out using erlenmeyer flask and water bath shaker to adjust the temperature. In this experiment, the initial concentration of lactic acid was varied from 0.1 to 0.5 gmol/dm3. The range of initial TBP concentrations in n-hexane was 0.1 to 1.0 gmol/dm3 and the extraction temperature range was 283 to 313 K. The experimental results showed that the higher the initial concentration of lactic acid in aqueous solution, the higher the distribution ratio for a fixed TBP concentration and extraction temperature. For a fixed initial concentration of lactic acid in aqueous solution and extraction temperature, the distribution ratio of lactic acid is increased by increasing TBP concentration. The overall equilibrium constants (Kpq) for the experiments using TBP concentration ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 gmol/dm3 at the extraction temperature of 293 K are calculated to be 0.0668 to 0.5144. Kpq for the experiments at the temperature ranging from 283 to 313 K at the initial concentration of lactic acid of 0.2 gmol/L are found to be 0.0122 to 0.8856. The Kpq as a function of temperature (T) in K can be expressed as ln Kpq = 10,596/T - 38.08 with sum of square of error of 0.14.
A Comparison of Carbon Molecular Sieve (CMS) Membranes with Polymer Blend CMS Membranes for Gas Permeation Applications
Authors: Huda W.Z. Wan Nurul , Ahmad M.A.
Published: October 2019

In this work, polyetherimide (PEI) was used as a main precursor to prepare carbon molecular sieve (CMS) membranes coated on a porous α-alumina disk via inert pyrolysis process. The PEI precursor was modified by blending with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and its effect on the gas transport property of carbon membrane pyrolyzed at 873K was examined. The coating solution was prepared by PEI diluted in N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) and coated onto support by dip-coating technique. Uniform CMS membranes were obtained by repeated dip-coating and pyrolysis of PEI and PEI/PEG. The structure and the single gas permeation properties of PEI and PEI/PEG CMS membrane were investigated.The thermal stability of CMS membranes prepared was determined by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Attenuated Total Reflectance Infrared (ATR-IR) Spectroscopy were employed to characterize the resulting membranes. The gas permeation of the CMS membranes was tested using three gases: methane, carbon dioxide, and oxygen and performed at 298K. The best performance was obtained by using PEI/PEG CMS membrane, whereby CO2 permeability should be 400.44x10-10 mol.m-2.s-1.Pa-1.
2,6-Dichloro-4-nitroaniline –loaded Electrospun Cellulose Acetate Fiber Mats and Their Release Characteristics
Authors: Thitiwongsawet Patcharaporn , Ouykul Paweena , Khaoroppan Akkarin
Published: October 2019

Mats of cellulose acetate (CA) nanofibers containing 2,6-dichloro-4-nitroaniline (DCNA) were successfully fabricated by electrospinning from the neat CA solution (17% w/v in 2:1 acetone/dimethylacetamide) containing DCNA in various amounts (i.e. 5-15 wt. % based on the weight of CA). The morphological appearance of both the neat and the DCNA-loaded electrospun CA fibers were smooth and the incorporation of DCNA in the neat CA solution did not affect the morphology of the resulting fibers. The average diameters of the neat and the DCNA-loaded electrospun CA fibers ranged between 241-320 nm. The integrity of the as-loaded DCNA in the DCNA-loaded CA fiber mats was intact as verified by the 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic method. The amount of water retention, the amount of weight loss, and release characteristics of the DCNA-loaded CA fiber mats and the DCNA-loaded as-cast films in distilled water at 30Â°C were studied. The release characteristics were investigated by the total immersion method. The DCNA-loaded CA fiber mats exhibited greater amount of water retention, weight loss, and DCNA released than the DCNA-loaded as-cast films.
Effect of Basis Sets on the Selection of the Level of Theory Toward the Development of Quantum-Based Force Field Equation for Ionic Liquids
Authors: Soriano A. N. , Doma, Jr. B. T.
Published: October 2019

The chemical industry is under considerable pressure to replace many of the volatile organic compounds. Volatile organic compounds are a major contributor to air pollution, but out of necessity, they are still frequently used in many chemical and industrial processes. A new class of solvents, referred to as ionic liquids, may offer at least a partial solution to the pollution problem caused by volatile organic compounds. Ionic liquids are generally considered "green" solvents because of their environment-friendly properties. However, the main problem that hinders the chemical industry from using ionic liquids is that, compared to conventional organic solvents, relatively little is known about their thermodynamic and transport properties. Since there are large possible combinations of ionic liquids, it would be very expensive if the study were conducted in the laboratory. The more appropriate approach in studying the properties of ionic liquids is to engage in a computational method, which uses a computer software that evaluates ionic liquids' thermophysical quantities via quantum mechanical and molecular mechanical simulations. In this study, a computer simulation, with the aid of SPARTAN '02 software, is used to study the effect of basis sets on the selection of the appropriate level of theory, which would be employed later in developing a quantum-based force field equation for predicting the properties of ionic liquids. Using the Hartree-Fock self-consistent filled (HF-SCF) molecular orbital model with different basis sets, a single point energy calculations were carried out for the chosen ionic liquid. With the exception of the minimal basis set, the SCF total energies for the other basis sets agree with each other in terms of magnitude. The SCF total energy is not affected as the basis set varies from minimal to split valence and as it polarizes. The most appropriate basis set was found to be 6-31G*. Keywords: Basis sets, Hartree-Fock, ionic liquids, force field equation, level of theory, and SPARTAN '02.
Rotating Biological Contactor for Biological Treatment of Poultry Processing Plant Wastewater Using Saccharomyces Cerevisiae
Authors: Najafpour Dr. Gashem , Naidu Punita Nook , Kamaruddin Azlina Harun
Published: October 2019

Biological treatment using attached growth on a rotating biological contactor(RBC) was implemented for wastewater from poultry industries, which containsa high level of organic compounds due to the slaughtering, rendering of bonesand fats, and plucking processes. The wastewater mostly consists of proteins,blood, fat and feathers. Nutrients available in the wastewater may enhance thegrowth of microorganisms, thus, it allows biological treatment to be usedeffectively. On the other hand, there are problems associated with biologicaltreatment processes such as nutrients promoting algae growth. The controlvariables for the attached growth in RBC were wastewater detention time, effectivesurface for attached growth, disc submerged level in the wastewater basin, shaftrotation for aeration, pH control and supplementary nutrients. The attachedgrowth resulted to high COD refPoval. The best treatment was obtained after 24hours with 29 % disc submergence level. The effective surface area for cellgrowth was 10.7 m2 using 60 discs mounted on a shaft. The microorganismused for the attached microbial growth was Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The shaftwas rotating at 11 rpm. The treatment was improved with the addition of 1 v/vof 0.1 molar sodium hydroxide solution to the wastewater for controlling pH. A91 % COD removal was obtained with RBC operating at optimum conditions,with a DO concentration of 3.98 mg/l.Key words: Rotating biological contactors, Aerobic treatment, Poultry processing wastewater,Saccharomyces cereuisiae,Attached growth.
Deagglomeration of High Purity Fine Alumina Powder via pH Control
Authors: Muchtar Andanastuti , Wati Norazmira , Jaafar Nor Azri
Published: October 2019

This paper presents results from a study on the effect of the pH of suspensions on the deagglomeration of a high-purity (99.99%), fine-grained alumina powder. The pH of the suspension was varied between pH 2 and 3. It is the aim of the study to determine the best pH for a successful dispersion of the alumina powders in the suspension. A series of rheological studies and analytical work under Scanning Electron Microscopy were conducted. It was found that the best pH was pH 2. Data obtained from rheological studies using a viscometer showed that the alumina suspension prepared at pH 2 was least viscous, which may be taken as a negative indicator of the presence of agglomerates. This hypothesis is validated by visual inspection using SEM. For the pH 2 samples, a successful removal of the agglomerates in the green compact has encouraged the sinterability of the samples and thus, resulted in an earlier sintering process at a low-firing temperature. In addition, the sintering characteristics and microstructures of the samples prepared with a pH 2 suspension are also presented.