bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design Requirements for a Teledermatology Scale-up Framework
Authors: Walters Laticha EM , Scott Richard E , Mars Maurice
Published: July 2018

The value proposition of full-scale teledermatology is evidenced in the literature. The public health sector of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province began synchronous teledermatology in 2003, followed by spontaneous asynchronous (mobile) teledermatology in 2013. No scale-up has been formally planned. This paper establishes design requirements that will inform the identification or de novo development of a teledermatology scale-up framework.

Methods: A requirements definition process with inductive reasoning approaches was applied. Analysis of semi-structured interviews (19) with key teledermatology stakeholders (17) and observations from two teledermatology programmes, informed by lessons learned from prior teledermatology implementation attempts, eHealth scale-up literature and authors’ expert opinion, led to identification of Themes, and iterative reflection gave rise to Categories and Requirements.

Results: Teledermatology scale-up framework design requirements emerged comprised of themes (4), categories (12), and specific design requirements (30).

Discussion: This paper describes a process and resulting evidence-based (stakeholder interviews; programme observations; literature) and experience-based (expert opinion) design requirements to inform the identification and adoption / adaptation or de novo development of a teledermatology scale-up framework (TDSF) for KwaZulu-Natal’s public health sector. The proposed approach is recommended as a pre-requisite for scaling, including in other settings and for other telehealth applications.
On More or Less Appropriate Notions of ‘Computation’
Authors: Gruner Stefan , Gravell Andrew
Published: July 2018

Half a century after the emergence of computer science (a.k.a. informatics) as an academic discipline, the notion of “computation” is not yet “settled”. On the contrary: recent developments in the natural sciences, in mathematics, as well as in computer hardware engineering have also shaken the belief in the sufficiency of the “classical” notion of “computation” from the tradition of the Church-Turing-Hypothesis. In this paper we review the recent discourse on what is “computation”, and we clarify our own position within this discourse. Although we present some arguments about which notions of “computation” may be considered “reasonably acceptable” for our own historic era, we also emphasize that every science-philosophical notion (including the notion of “computation”) has its own long-term historical semantics which cannot be fixed once and forever. At this point in time, however, no compelling assertion can yet be made about the possibility of “hypercomputation” as proper computation.
ANÁLISE CINÉTICA E TERMODINÂMICA DA BIOSSORÇÃO DE Pb (II) EM BATELADA SEM AGITAÇÃO UTILIZANDO CASCA DE URUCUM COMO BIOSSORVENTE
Authors: SANTOS CAROLINA MARIA FERREIRA DOS , Costa Pedro Antônio Silva , Coelho Carolina Maia , Souza Camila dos Reis , Luz Fabiana Viana da , Gonçalves Janine de Souza , Riani Kandace Amanda Silveira Castro Vasconcelos , De Almeida Lhays M. N.
Published: July 2018

KINETIC AND THERMODYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF THE BIOSORPTION OF Pb(II) IN BATCH AND WITHOUT AGITATION USING ANNATTO SHELLSO estudo da remoção de metais pesados através da biossorção utilizando materiais naturais e alternativos possui grande importância em tratamento de efluentes, promovendo a redução dos impactos ambientais.  Além disso, materiais sustentáveis de baixo custo e que geralmente são descartados podem ser usados como adsorventes, como a casca de urucum. Neste trabalho, realizou-se a biossorção de íons Pb (II) em batelada utilizando casca de urucum como biossorvente, nas temperaturas de 32 e 40°C. Caracterizou-se as partículas do biossorvente quanto ao seu tamanho, estudou-se a cinética e os mecanismos da biossorção, bem como seus parâmetros termodinâmicos. Foi possível verificar que a eficiência da biossorção do chumbo nessas condições, atingindo remoções superiores a 85% dessa espécie metálica em soluções aquosas diluídas. O modelo cinético que descreve o processo foi o de pseudo-segunda ordem, a energia de ativação de 77,36 kJ mol-1 e a biossorção pode ser classificada como química. Ademais, o processo mostrou-se não espontâneo e exotérmico.The study of the removal of heavy metals through biosorption using natural and alternative materials is a great importance in the treatment of effluents, improving the reduction of environmental impacts. In addition, sustainable and low-cost materials which are usually discharded can be used as sorbent, as annatto shells. In this work, the biosorption of Pb (II) ions in batch system without agitation using annatto shells as biosorbent was performed, at 32°C and 40°C. The biosorbent particles were characterized according to their size, kinetic and thermodynamic parameters, furthermore, its mechanisms were studied. It was possible to verify the biosorption efficiency under these conditions, achieving removals of more than 85% of lead in dilute aqueous solutions. The kinetic model that describes the process was the pseudo-second order, the activation energy is 77.36 kJ mol-1 and the biosorption can be classified as chemical. In addition, the process proved to be non-spontaneous and exothermic.
EFEITO DO ÓLEO DE SEMENTE DE UVA SOBRE O POLIPROPILENO (PP) RECICLADO. PARTE II: CINÉTICA DE CRISTALIZAÇÃO NÃO-ISOTÉRMICA
Authors: Da Costa Helson Moreira , Ramos Valéria Dutra , Esteves Leonardo Luis
Published: July 2018

O óleo de semente de uva (OSU) foi incorporado ao polipropileno reciclado (PP rec.) e a cinética de cristalização não-isotérmica foi acompanhada através da calorimetria exploratória diferencial (DSC) usando-se três taxas de aquecimento diferentes (3°C/min, 6°C/min e 12°C/min). Os modelos cinéticos de Jeziorny e Liu, além do método isoconversional de Friedman foram avaliados. Embora os resultados experimentais tenham revelado que OSU não tem papel de aditivo nucleante; esse óleo vegetal, ao agir como antioxidante, permitiu que a cristalização do PP rec. apresentasse um patamar energético similar ao da amostra não degradada. Além disso, os cristais formados na amostra PP rec./OSU/8 foram menos complexos, porém de uniformidade equivalente aos do PP rec. sem processamento.
ONYCHOMYCOSIS FINGER AND TOE NAIL BY CRYPTOCOCCUS LAURENTII.T VERRUCOSSUM AND CANDIDA SP
Authors: Widasmara Dhelya
Published: July 2018

ONYCHOMYCOSIS FINGER AND TOE NAIL BY Cryptococcus laurentii, Trychophyton verrucosum, and Candida sp  Dhelya Widasmara, Diane Tantia SariDepartment of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical Faculty, Brawijaya Universitydr.Saiful Anwar Regional Public Hospital, Malang, IndonesiaEmail: dhelya.widasmara@gmail.com AbstractIntroduction : Onychomycosis is included in most common nail disease and contributes to 50% of onychodystropic events. So far, there are rare cases of onychomycosis due to Cryptoccus laurentii and Trychophyton verrucosum. Case : Woman, 54 y.o, complaining of brittle nails and cracked on the soles of the feet and hands since 6 months ago. Patients have daily habits to go to rice fields without gloves and footwear, and rarely wash their hands and feet after the rice fields. Dermatologic examination of all unguium digiti manus and the right and left hand, obtained discolorization of yellow and white and some blackish, subungual hyperkeratosis, onikolisis, and onikodistrofik. In plantar dekstra et sinistra, obtained erythema plaque, multiple, irregular shape, varied size, with rough skuama, as well as multiple yellow and white hyperkeratotic plaques with fissures. A 20% KOH examination of a hand and foot nail, both of which obtained a long septae hyphae. Periodic Acid-Schiff coloration (PAS) obtained a description of spores. Fungal culture from fingernail obtained growth of Criptococcus laurentii and Trichophyton spp., culture of toenails obtained growth Trichophyton verrucosum and Candida sp. Patients were treated with itraconazole tablet dose of 2x200mg / day dose for a week every month, gentamicin ointment, and 20% urea cream, myologic improvement after 4 weeks of therapy. Discussion : The incidence of onychomycosis due to Cryptoccus laurentii and Trychophyton verrucosum is still rare. The predisposing factor of infection in these patients is due to the patient's habitual contact with the paddy fields. Keywords : onychomycosis, Cryptococcus laurentii, Trychophyton verrucosum
SOIL-TRANSMITTED HELMINTH INFECTION AND EOSINOPHIL LEVELS AMONG WASTE COLLECTORS IN BANDA ACEH
Authors: Imansyah Putra Teuku Romi , Loesnihari Ricke , Panggabean Merina
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT.                 Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) has infected more than one billion people worldwide. Waste collectors are at risk for STH infection because their work mostly in contact with soil and waste. Eosinophilia is a sign of human immune response to STH infection in addition to increased IgE and cytokine production. This cross sectional study aims to examine the association between STH infection and eosinophil levels among waste collectors in Banda Aceh. The study sample were 60 waste collectors working for the Sanitation department of Banda Aceh. Examination of stool samples using Kato-Katz technique revealed the prevalence of STH infection among waste collectors was 23.3% (14/60), consisting of T.trichiura infection (21.7%) and mixed infection (1.6%). There were no single infections of A. lumbricoides nor the hookworm infection was found. Blood tests to count eosinophil showed the prevalence of eosinophilia at 21.7%. There was no significant correlation between the intensity of STH infection and eosinophil levels (p value = 1.00). This study does not recommend the use of eosinophilia to indicate STH infection.Keywords: Eosinophilia, Kato Katz, STH infection, Waste Collectors, Banda AcehABSTRAK.                Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) menginfeksi lebih dari satu milyar orang di seluruh dunia. Petugas sampah merupakan salah satu kelompok yang berisiko terifeksi STH karena pekerjaannya berhubungan dengan tanah dan sampah. Eosinofilia merupakan salah satu tanda timbulnya respon imun manusia terhadap infeksi STH selain peningkatan IgE dan produksi sitokin. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian cross sectional untuk mengetahui hubungan infeksi STH dengan kadar eosinofil pada petugas pengangkut sampah. Penelitian di lakukan di Banda Aceh dengan subjek penelitian adalah  petugas pengangkut sampah Dinas Kebersihan dan Keindahan Kota Banda Aceh sebanyak 60 sampel. Pemeriksaan sampel feses dengan tehnik Kato-Katz menunjukkan pevalensi infeksi STH pada petugas pengangkut sampah sebesar 23,3 % (14/60) terdiri dari infeksi T.trichiura 21,7 % dan infeksi campuran 1,6 %. Tidak ditemukan infeksi tunggal A.lumbricoides dan infeksi hookworm. Pemeriksaan darah untuk menghitung eosinofil menunjukkan prevalensi eosinofilia adalah 21,7%. Tidak terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara intensitas infeksi STH dengan kadar eosinofil darah  (p value= 1.00 ). Penelitian ini tidak menganjurkan eosinofilia sebagai marker adanya infeksi STH.Kata kunci : eosinofilia, Kato-Katz,  infeksi STH, Kato-Katz, petugas sampah, Banda Aceh
SiO2-SnO2:Er3+ Glass-Ceramic Monoliths
Authors: Tran Lam Thi Ngoc , Massella Damiano , Zur Lidia , Chiasera Alessandro , Varas Stefano , Armellini Cristina , Righini Giancarlo C. , Lukowiak Anna , Zonta Daniele , Ferrari Maurizio
Published: July 2018

The development of efficient luminescent systems, such as microcavities, solid state lasers, integrated optical amplifiers, optical sensors is the main topic in glass photonics. The building blocks of these systems are glass-ceramics activated by rare earth ions because they exhibit specific morphologic, structural and spectroscopic properties. Among various materials that could be used as nanocrystals to be imbedded in silica matrix, tin dioxide presents some interesting peculiarities, e.g. the presence of tin dioxide nanocrystals allows increase in both solubility and emission of rare earth ions. Here, we focus our attention on Er3+ - doped silica – tin dioxide photonic glass-ceramics fabricated by sol-gel route. Although the SiO2-SnO2:Er3+ could be fabricated in different geometrical systems: thin films, monoliths and planar waveguides we herein limit ourselves to the monoliths. The effective role of tin dioxide as luminescence sensitizer for Er3+ ions is confirmed by spectroscopic measurements and detailed fabrication protocols are discussed.
TiC/Cr23C6 Composite Coating on 304 Stainless Steel and Its Tribological/deteriorative Properties Investigation
Authors: Heidarshenas Behzad
Published: July 2018

The aim of this work is evaluation of corrosion behavior of SS 304 coated through TIG process. In this work, Ti tube cored with graphite powder was applied. Experimental processes were shown that the optimum parameters for coating procedure are voltage of 15V, current density of 120A and the speed of 2.1mm/s. Investigations on corrosion resistance of coating are shown that not only this composite coating can improve the tribological behavior of this type of stainless steel, but also there is an improvement in its deteriorative property. Moreover, it is observed that mass reduction in coating is 5 times lower than the base metal.
Smart Villages: Comprehensive Review of Initiatives and Practices
Authors: Zavratnik Veronika , Kos Andrej , Stojmenova Duh Emilija
Published: July 2018

Over the recent decades people’s (rural and urban) communities are facing numerous social and economic changes and challenges. Some of those challenges have been increasingly addressed through the lenses of technological developments and digitalization. In this paper we have made a review of already existing practices while focusing on the existing implementations of the smart village concept and the importance of digital transformation for rural areas. We give special attention to EU policies which we are using as an already existing framework for understanding our own forthcoming examples. We have shown the parallels between the findings and insights from different regions and made an evaluation of presented practices. Our main argument stems from our own previous experiences and experiences of other research approaches, and is grounded on the argument that rural areas are not uniform, and that smart rural development has to be applied in combination with place-based approach. We present the cases of Slovenian pilot practices and support our argument by proposing the FabVillage concept.
An Improvement Differential Evolution Algorithms for the Crop Planning in the Northeastern Region of Thailand
Authors: Ketsripongsa Udompong , Pitakaso Rapeepan , Sethanan Kanchana , Srivarapongse Tassin
Published: July 2018

This research presents a solution to the problem of planning the optimum area for economic crops by developed mathematical models and developed an algorithm to solve the problem of planning the optimum area by considered economic value for the maximize profit of farmers. The data were collected from farmers in 8 provinces in the northeastern region of Thailand. The 3 economic crops studied were rice, cassava and sugarcane. The solving problem methods were 1) Created mathematical models and solved the problems with Lingo V.11. 2) Improved Differential Evolution algorithms (I-DE) to solve the problems, which had 3 local search methods included (Swap, Cyclic Move and K-variable moves). The results of this study showed that in the small and medium problems instances, Lingo V.11 and DE provided equal profit outcome but DE was faster but in the large size of test instances DE generated better solution than that of Lingo v.11 when Lingo simulation time is set to 250 hours and DE simulation time has set to maximum 21.82 minutes. 2) Comparing DE and I-DE , I-DE outperforms DE in finding the better solution for all size of test instances (small, medium and large).
THE EFFECT OF OPTION NUMBERS ON THE ITEM INSTRUMENTS OF BELIEF ABOUT MATHEMATICS FOR JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TOWARD THE MAXIMUM RELIABILITY
Authors: Saragih Kisastro
Published: July 2018

This study aims to find out the effect of option numbers on the item instruments of belief about mathematics toward the maximum reliability. The method used was experimental method with one-way analysis of variants (ANOVA) design 3x1. The population is all students of state Junior High School in Medan academic year 2014/2015. Sampling was done by multi-stage random sampling in order to obtain a sample 1,050 students of three state Junior High Schools in Medan. Study hypotheses were tested using one way ANOVA. Study results conclude that: (1) The maximum reliability of the instrument of belief about mathematics with five options is higher than the maximum reliability of the instrument of belief about mathematics with four options and three options; and (2) The maximum reliability of the instruments of belief about mathematics with four options is higher than the maximum reliability of the instruments of belief about mathematics with three options. Therefore, the more option numbers on the item instrument are, the higher the maximum reliability will be.
PELAKSANAAN PEMBINAAN PROFESIONALISME PAMONG BELAJAR DALAM PENINGKATAN KUALITAS PEMBELAJARAN KELOMPOK BELAJAR KESETARAAN
Authors: Sadid Agus , Khairuddin Khairuddin , Juariah Siti
Published: July 2018

This qualitative research aimed at describing the efforts of the head of Learning Center to improve the tutorsâ€™ professionalism particularly in the Learning Centers for Equivalency. The research conducted in West Lombok and Sumbawa from February through April 2008. As a multicase study, the research found that the heads of Learning Centers have done all efforts to develop and build tutorsâ€™ professionalism, such as through intensive observation, lectures, in-service and pre-service trainings.
PENGEMBANGAN DAN PENINGKATAN KINERJA PAMONG BELAJAR SANGGAR KEGIATAN BELAJAR
Authors: Hapsari Melati Indri
Published: July 2018

The success of a Learning Activity Center much depends on the tutorsâ€™ competence and creativity. This articles discusses some variables influencing the tutorsâ€™ performance and puts forward a number of suggestions to improve the tutorsâ€™ performance.
Lipid and fatty acid profile of liver in relation to reproduction in the small-scaled terapon Terapon puta (Cuvier, 1829) from Pondicherry Coast, India
Authors: Nandikeswari R. , Sambasivam M.
Published: July 2018

The total lipid content as percentage of dry weight of liver of Terapon puta (Cuvier, 1829) varied at four different stages viz., immature, maturing, mature and spent stages of reproduction. Highest levels of saturated fatty acids (SFA) was recorded in the liver of mature fishes (50.71%) followed by maturing (48.03%) and the lowest in immature fishes (38.91%). Highest levels of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were observed in the liver of maturing fishes (37.07%) followed by mature (34.09%) and the lowest levels in immature fishes (30.48%). Maturing fishes had higher liver polyunsaturated fatty acid  levels (PUFA) (13.54%), compared to immature (10.55%) and mature fishes (10.17%).
Changes in digestive enzyme activities during different developmental stages of the crayfish Astacus leptodactylus Eschscholtz, 182
Authors: Koca Seval Bahadir , Naz Mehmet , Acar Esra
Published: July 2018

The present study determined changes in protease, α-amylase and lipase activities during embryonic and post-embryonic developmental stages of the freshwater crayfish Astacus leptodactylus Eschscholtz, 1823. The embryonic stages studied comprised Phase III (blastula formation), Phase X (embryos with anlagen of masticatory) and Phase XIV (embryos with strongly developed posterior hepatopancreas lobes). The post-embryonic stages comprised Stage I (no feeding) and Stage II (prior to the onset of feeding). Protease and α-amylase activities were relatively high as compared with lipase activity. Protease activity values showed a steady increase from Phase III to Stage I. α-amylase and lipase activities were low in Phase XIV. The activities of these two enzymes tended to increase just before hatching and reached the highest levels in Stage II. Digestive enzyme activities increased in accordance with maturation of the hepatopancreas and prior to the onset of external feeding. Protease activity was high in the early stage of embryonic development and continued to increase in later stages. On the other hand, α-amylase and lipase activities were low until maturation of the hepatopancreas and then remained high. The results of the present study provide important information on changes in digestive enzyme levels during different developmental stages of A. leptodactylus.
Checklist of fishes of the Bakhira Tal and their conservation status
Authors: Bano Farah , Serajuddin Mohammad
Published: July 2018

The present study was carried out to assess the ichthyofaunal diversity of Bakhira Tal, a natural wetland in the district Sant Kabir Nagar of Uttar Pradesh. A total of 31 species belonging to 23 genera, 9 orders and 21 families were recorded. Maximum number of species recorded was from the Order Cypriniformes (32.25%), which was followed by Perciformes (25.80%), Siluriformes (16.12%), Ophiocephaliformes (9.67%), Beloniformes (3.22%), Cyprinidontiformes (3.22%), Symbranchiformes (3.22%), Mastacembeleformes (3.22%) and Tetraodontiformes (3.22%). Most of the species recorded in the present study were under Least Concern (29) and two species namely Wallago attu and Ailia coila were found to be under Near Threatened Category of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Influence of temperature variation on embryonic and early larval development of a commercially important tropical sea urchin Tripneustes gratilla (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Parvez Md. Shamim , Aminur Rahman M. , Yusoff Fatimah Md. , Arshad Aziz , Lee Sang-Go
Published: July 2018

The present study investigated the influence of different temperature levels (16, 19, 22, 25, 28, 31 and 34oC) on embryonic and early larval development of the tropical sea urchin, Tripneustes gratilla (Linnaeus, 1758) in a controlled laboratory condition. The critical lower and higher temperature for embryonic development was found to be 16 and 34oC, respectively. Embryos reared in these temperatures exhibited 100% abnormality within 48 h post-insemination. The time required to reach embryonic and larval stages was increased with temperature from 28oC followed by 31, 25, 22 and 19oC. The developmental time of 2-cell to 4-arm pluteus larvae showed significant (p<0.05) differences. The survival (%) of larvae at the prism, 2-arm and 4-arm stages were observed as dissimilar from 22 to 34oC, and the highest values (100% or near 100%) were found at 25 and 28oC. The morphometric measurements from prism to 4-arm pluteus larvae at different temperatures differed significantly (p<0.05). However among the temperatures evaluated, 28oC was found as the best temperature for better growth and development of larvae at all stages. The findings of the study would help to develop captive breeding and seed production programmes for commercial aquaculture of the species.
Effect of packing density on selected tissue biochemical parameters of hatchery produced fingerlings of orange spotted grouper Epinephelus coioides (Hamilton, 1822) during transportaion
Authors: Xavier Biji , Megarajan Sekar , Ranjan Ritesh , Shiva Ponnaganti , Dash Biswajit , Ghosh Shubhadeep
Published: July 2018

Effect of different packing densities on water quality parameters, survival and selected tissue biochemical parameters during transportation of hatchery produced fingerlings of orange spotted grouper Epinephelus coioides (Hamilton, 1822) was investigated. Fingerlings (weight 3.0±0.2 g and length 6.0±0.2 cm) were packed in sealed double layered oxygen packed polythene bags (water and oxygen ratio 1:3) at different packing densities of 20, 30, 40 and 50 no. l-1. The packed fishes were transported for 6 h. After transportation, water samples and tissue samples from fishes were collected for further analyses. Levels of tissue glucose and selected metabolic enzymes (lactate dehydrogenase, LDH; aspartate amino transferase, AST and alanine amino transferase, ALT) significantly (p<0.05) increased with increased packing density. Water quality parameters viz., pH, dissolved oxygen, CO2, alkalinity, total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) and nitrite nitrogen (NO2-N) were also significantly different at higher packing densities (p<0.05). However, levels of all the tissue biochemical parameters tested were in tolerable range and no mortality of fingerlings was recorded at any of the packing densities. Though the tissue enzyme levels were significantly higher and water quality was significantly deteriorated at the highest packing density of 50 no. l-1, it did not lead to mortality of fish. Therefore, it is inferred that this density can be used for short distance transportation of fingerlings of orange spotted grouper.
Reappraisal of Antimalarials in Interferonopathies: New Perspectives for Old Drugs
Authors: Piscianz Elisa , Cuzzoni Eva , Sharma Rajan , Tesser Alessandra , Sapra Pooja , Tommasini Alberto
Published: July 2018

The story of antimalarials as antinflammatory drugs dates back several centuries.
Chinin, the extract of the Cinchona bark, has been exploited since the 18th century
for its antimalarial and antifebrile properties. Later, during the Second World War, the
broad use of antimalarials allowed arguing their antirheumatic effect on soldiers. Since
then, these drugs have been broadly used to treat Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, but,
only recently, have the molecular mechanisms of action been partly clarified.

Inhibitory action on vacuole function and trafficking has been considered for decades the
main mechanism of the action of antimalarials, affecting the activation of phagocytes and
dendritic cells. In addition, chloroquine is also known as a potent inhibitor of autophagy,
providing another possible explanation of its antinflammatory action. However, much attention
has been recently devoted to the action of antimalarials on the so-called cGASSTING
pathway leading from the sensing of cytoplasmic nucleic acids to the production
of type I interferons.

This pathway is a fundamental mechanism of host defence, since it is able to detect microbial
DNA and induce the type I interferon-mediated immune response. Of note, genetic
defects in the degradation of nucleic acids lead to inappropriate cGAS-STING activation
and inflammation. These disorders, called type I interferonopathies, represent a
valuable model to study the antinflammatory potential of antimalarials.

We will discuss possible development of antimalarials to improve the treatment of type I
interferonopathies and likely multifactorial disorders characterised by interferon inflammation,
such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.
Pharmacotranscriptomic Biomarkers in Glucocorticoid Treatment of Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Lucafò Marianna , Stankovic Biljana , Kotur Nikola , Di Silvestre Alessia , Martelossi Stefano , Ventura Alessandro , Zukic Branka , Pavlovic Sonja , Decorti Giuliana
Published: July 2018

Background:

Pharmacotranscriptomics aims to reach more accurate drug dosing
based on interindividual transcriptome variations. Here, we provide an overview of RNA biomarkers
that could predict the response to glucocorticoids (GCs), considered the standard for
treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), both in adult and pediatric patients. Although
new biological agents are very effective in IBD treatment, GCs are still widely used for induction
of remission in patients with moderate to severe disease. It is important to identify patients
that are poor responders to GCs therapy, because suboptimal response is frequent and associated
with various side effects. A number of genetic variants related to GC mechanism of action
has been studied. However, the majority of reported associations are not consistent. In this regard,
pharmacogenomic research is now exploring the world of RNAs. An appropriate regulation
of the transcriptome, which mainly comprises mRNAs and non-coding RNAs that control
gene expression, has a strong impact in the modulation of GC activity.

Aim: The aim of this review is to present the current knowledge of the role of the transcriptome
in modulating GC response in pediatric IBD.

Results: We will discuss the available literature, concerning the development of pharmacotranscriptomic
biomarkers, focusing particularly on non-coding RNAs, and present the results
in this field that elucidate a concrete benefit of translating the knowledge gained in the "omics"
studies into clinical practice.
Investigation of WRF Microphysics Schemes and Dynamics During an Extreme Precipitation Event in East Idaho
Authors: Andretta Thomas A.
Published: July 2018

Background:

The 26 December 2003 snowstorm was a rare and long-lived weather system that affected east Idaho. Light snow began falling Christmas night, became steadier and heavier during the next day, and tapered off during the morning on the 27th. Snowfall estimates of 20.3-38.1 cm (8.0-15.0 in) were observed over a 24-hour period on 26 December 2003 in the lower part of the Snake River Plain, paralyzing local communities and transportation centers with snowdrifts and poor visibilities.

Methods:

The Weather Research and Forecasting Unified Environmental Modeling System was used to conduct a sensitivity study of five precipitation microphysics schemes at two grid scales during the event.

Results:

A comparison of the model accumulated total grid scale precipitation at 12-km and 4-km scales with the observed precipitation at several stations in the lower plain, indicated small negative biases (underprediction) in all of the schemes. The Purdue-Lin and Weather Research and Forecasting Double-Moment 6-Class microphysics schemes contained the smallest root mean squared errors.

Conclusion:

The Purdue-Lin and Weather Research and Forecasting Double-Moment 6-Class schemes provided several insights into the dynamics of the snowstorm. A topographic convergence zone, seeder-feeder mechanism, and convective instability were major factors contributing to the heavy snowfall in the lower plain.
Novel (N4) Macrocyclic Metal Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, Spectral Studies and Anticancer Activity
Authors: El-Boraey Hanaa A. , EL-Gammal Ohyla A.
Published: July 2018

Introduction:

A new series of mononuclear Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Pd(II) complexes correspond to tetradentate macrocyclic nitrogen ligandi.e.naphthyl-3,4:10,11-dibenzo,7-methylene,8-methyl,6-phenyl-1,5,9,13-tetraazacyclohexadecane-5,8-diene-2,12-dione metal(II) complexes, have been synthesized by the template condensation reaction.

Methods:

The complexes have been characterized by elemental analysis, spectral (IR, UV–Vis, and ESR, molar conductivity, and magnetic as well as thermal analysis measurements.

Results:

On the basis of above studies, an octahedral geometry has been proposed for all complexes except Cu(II) nitrate complex that adopt square pyramidal geometry, and square planar geometry for Pd(II) chloride complex, respectively.

Conclusion:

The thermal behavior and the kinetic parameters of degradation were determined using Coats-Redfern and Horowitz-Metzger methods. Moreover, thein vitroantitumor activity of the some synthesized complexes against human breast and human hepatocarcinoma cell lines (MCF-7) and (HePG2), respectively has been studied.
Optimal Design of Compact Dual-Band Slot Antenna Using Particle Swarm Optimization for WLAN and WiMAX Applications
Authors: Sahoo Amiya Bhusana , Mishra Guru Prasad , Mangaraj Biswa B.
Published: July 2018

Background:

A novel, small size, dual-band rectangular patch antenna with two narrow
vertical slots for Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and Worldwide Interoperability for
Microwave Access (WiMAX) application is presented here.

Methods:

The proposed antenna, fed by coaxial line, has dimensions of 21.075 mm ×17 mm ×1. 6
mm. With a pair of vertical slots, the antenna is resonating in 3.5 GHz WiMAX and 5.3 GHz WLAN
band. The dimensions of the ground plane, substrate, radiating patch and two slots on the patch
antenna are optimized using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to obtain the desired operating
frequency band.

Results:

The proposed antenna shows good radiation characteristics at these two operating bands,
making it suitable for dual-band operation.

Conclusion:

The same design with some different physical parameter may be suitable for other
kinds of wireless services. Further, application of Defected Ground Structure (DGS) to such models
may also provide better performance.
SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CERVICAL STENOSIS IN PATIENTS WITH MUCOPOLYSACCHARIDOSIS: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Kolesov S. V. , Mikhaylova L. K. , Kolbovsky D. A. , Pereverzev V. S.
Published: July 2018

A multidisciplinary approach to treatment of patients with mucopolysaccharidosis allows to achieve good results. However, progressive spinal canal stenosis at the level of the craniovertebral junction, characteristic of this disease, leads to neurological signs, as well as a decrease in quality and length of life. The solution to this problem is a difficult challenge for spinal surgeons, as it is associated with a high risk of complications. There is also a wide range of opinions and approaches to the surgical treatment of this group of patients.Using the referred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis» (PRISMA) protocol, a PubMed and eLIBRARY search was conducted using keywords to find articles describing patients with mucopolysaccharidosis who underwent surgical treatment for cervical stenosis. In this review, information on demographic parameters, surgical technique and the results of cervical stenosis treatment in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis is collected and analyzed.
BONE AND SOFT TISSUES INTEGRATION IN POROUS TITANIUM IMPLANTS (EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH)
Authors: Tikhilov R. M. , Shubnyakov I. I. , Denisov A. O. , Konev V. A. , Gofman I. V. , Mikhailova P. M. , Netylko G. I. , Vasiliev A. V. , Anisimova L. O. , Bilyk S. S.
Published: July 2018

Aim. It’s common that revision arthroplasty of the large joints demands replacing of bone defects of irregular geometrical shapes and simultaneous restoring of support ability and ability to integrate surrounding muscular and tendinous structures into an implant that is required for a complete restoration of joint function.The purpose. To experimentally study the process of integration for muscular and bone tissue as well as tendinous and ligamentous structures into porous titanium materials.Material and methods. During in vivo experiment the authors created a standardized bone defect in 6 rabbits of chinchilla breed at the point of patella ligament attachment as well as a delamination area of muscular tissue in latissimus dorsi. Both knee joints and both latissimus dorsi were used in each animal. Study group included titanium implants with three-dimensional mesh structure. Control group — solid titanium implants with standard porosity. Titanium implants were produced by additive technologies with preliminary prototyping. The porosity corresponded to trabecular metal, striations — 0.45, pores size —100–200 microns. Study and control components were implanted in the identical conditions into the corresponding anatomical sites. Postoperative AP and lateral roentgenograms of knee joints were performed for all animals. Morphological research was conducted on day 60 after the implantation and strength properties were studied at day 90 after the implantation.Results. The authors observed bony ingrowth into implant pores with minimal volume of fibrous tissue, a distinct connective integration was reported represented by a dense fibrous tissue in the pores of components implanted into the muscular tissue. Testing of fixation strength of the study implants demonstrated a clearly superior strength of soft and bone tissue integration into the experimental mesh implants produced using additive technologies.
PREVALENCE OF KNEE BUCKLING AMONG GRADE 3 OSTEOARTHRITIS PATIENTS OF KNEE: A SELF-REPORTED STUDY
Authors: Lamba Dheeraj , Upadhyay Ritambhara K
Published: July 2018

Objective: The present study aims to find out the sensation and frequency of episodes of knee buckling in Grade 3 osteoarthritis (OA) and its physiotherapy treatment.Methods: Experimental study design is used to determine the knee buckling in Grade 3 OA of the knee joint. Subjects are classified into two groups. Subjects with Grade 3 OA knee are examined for knee buckling. The investigator used a questionnaire to collect data from filed documents. Data were numerically coded and captured in excel, using SPSS 20 version software. Descriptive statistics were applied to analyze the data.Results: The study has provided baseline information about knee buckling among Grade 3 OA knee. In Group A, out of 32 study projects, 25 reported a sensation of knee buckling and reported no history of knee buckling in previous 3 months. Among 25 subjects reported knee buckling, the frequency of episodes of knee buckling reported >5 in 15 subjects while 3–5 in 6 and 1–2 in 4 subjects were reported in previous 3 months. In Group B, after completion of 3 weeks of knee stabilizing exercise, 10 subjects reported no sensation of buckling out of 25 subjects in past 3 weeks, while remaining 9 subjects were reported 1–2 and 6 subjects were reported only 3–5 number of episodes of buckling.Conclusion: The study shows that knee stabilizing and balancing exercises are helpful in reducing or preventing knee buckling.
PHARMACOECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF STATIN TABLETS - IN VITRO PERFORMANCE PERSPECTIVE
Authors: M Vidyavathi , L Koteswaramma , A Krishnaveni , T Madhuri , B Sarada
Published: July 2018

Objective: Pharmacoeconomics refers to the scientific discipline that compares the value of pharmaceutical drugs or drug therapies. The pharmacoeconomic analysis includes the research methods related to cost minimization, cost-effectiveness, and cost-benefit analysis. The present study concerned with the pharmacoeconomic analysis of statin tablets (simvastatin [S1-S5], atorvastatin [A1-A5], and rosuvastatin [R1-R5]) of different brands which are varying in their prices using in vitro evaluation methods of tablets.Methods: Weight variation, friability, hardness, disintegration, and dissolution tests of all selected statin tablets were performed as per official procedure for the pharmacoeconomic comparative analysis.Results: It was found the least T90% with S5 and high T90% with S1 tablets among simvastatin tablets, the least T90% was observed with A1 and A5 and high T90% with A2 tablets among atorvastatin tablets, and least T 90% was observed with R5 and high T90% with R2 was found among rosuvastatin tablets without any relation with their order of prices. Hence, the study concluded that there is no significant correlation between cost and in vitro performance as there is no excellent in vitro performance found from the costliest tablets and vice versa.Conclusion: The range of the cost of different marketed statin tablets is from Rs.17.5 to Rs.127.0 per a strip of 10 tablets. All brands of three drugs have equal strength which are assumed to produce the same outcomes. As there is no significant correlation between cost and results of some of in vitro parameters of the tablets, the cost minimization analysis can be ruled out for these brands of S1 to
IODINE STATUS OF PREGNANT WOMEN RESIDING IN URBAN SLUMS IN DELHI
Authors: Rao Spriha , Toteja Gurudayal Singh , Bhatia Neena , Dwivedi Supriya , Gonmei Zaozianlungliu , Roy Ashok Kumar
Published: July 2018

Objectives: The present study was carried out to determine the iodine nutrition status among pregnant women in slums of West Delhi.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out among the third-trimester pregnant women residing in urban slums of West Delhi. Urinary iodine concentration was estimated using ammonium persulfate method, and salt iodine was estimated using iodometric titration.Results: Of the total 180 pregnant women, 70.6% were consuming adequately iodized salt (iodine levels ≥15 ppm). Median urinary iodine level for the pregnant women was 147.5 μg/L indicating iodine deficiency among this group. A total of 51.1% of women had urinary iodine levels <150 μg/L.Conclusion: Pregnant women belonging to slum community from Delhi have a suboptimal iodine status. Further, the proportion of women consuming iodized salt is less than the national average indicating the need to educate these women about the importance of iodine during pregnancy.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF DIAZEPAM-LOADED INTRAVAGINAL ALGINATE BEADS: AN INVESTIGATION STUDY FOR THE TREATMENT OF PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION
Authors: Sabry Shereen Ahmed
Published: July 2018

Objective: The fundamental objective of this research investigation was to develop intravaginal diazepam (DZ)-loaded alginate beads for the management of acute pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) pain with minimal sedative effect.Methods: DZ loaded beads were prepared by an ionotropic gelation method using SA (sodium alginate) alone, or in combination with either poloxamer 407 (PL), pectin (PC), or xanthan gum (XG) at different ratios in the presence of different concentrations of calcium chloride as a cross-linking agent. The successfully developed beads were evaluated for the particle size, pH, yield percentage, entrapment efficiency, in vitro bioadhesion, swelling percentage, and in vitro drug release. The stability, ex vivo drug permeation, and sedative action of the optimized beads formulations were studied.Results: The particle size of the formulated beads was from 395±3.3 to 515±2.8 μm, yield percentage was from 68.2±1.7 to 87.5±2.1, entrapment efficiency was from 65.6±1.6 to 87.5±2.1. pH ranged from 6.1±0.2 to 6.8±0.6, bioadhesion strength was from 71.5±1.3 to 87.6±3.1, and swelling percentage was in the range from 53.4±3.1 to 85.2±3.7. Approximately 92.4–72.6% of the loaded dose was released from the prepared beads. The optimized beads showed a good stability under the selected storage conditions. About 74.8%, 71.1%, 68.6%, and 63.4% of the loaded dose permeated through the rabbit vaginal mucosa from F7, F9, F3, and F11, respectively. The formulated beads decreased the sedative action associated with orally or parenterally administered DZ.Conclusion: The developed beads were considered a promising candidate to formulate DZ into a new dosage form for the treatment of PFD with a minimum central nervous system sedation.
DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF IN SITU GEL OF XANTHAN GUM FOR OPHTHALMIC FORMULATION CONTAINING BRIMONIDINE TARTRATE
Authors: Ahmed Vazir Ashfaq , Goli Divakar
Published: July 2018

Objective: The goal of this study was to develop and characterize an ion-activated in situ gel-forming brimonidine tartrate, solution eye drops containing xanthan gum as a mucoadhesive polymer.Method: Sol-gel formulation was prepared using gellan gum as an ion-activated gel-forming polymer, xanthan gum as mucoadhesive agent, and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC E50LV) as release retardant polymer. Phenylethyl alcohol is used as preservatives in borate buffer. The 23 factorial design was employed to optimize the formulation considering the concentration of gelrite, xanthan gum and HPMC as independent variables, gelation time, gel strength, and mucoadhesive force (N). Gelation time , gel strength, mucoadhesive force (N), viscosity (cP) and in vitro percentage drug release were chosen as dependent variables. The formulation was characteristics for pH, clarity, isotonicity, sterility, rheological behavior, and in vitro drug release, ocular irritation, and ocular visualization.Result: Based on desirability index of responses, the formulation containing a concentration of gelrite (0.4%), xanthan gum (0.21%), and HPMC (HPMC E50 (0.24%) was found to be the optimized formulation concentration developed by 23 factorial design. The solution eye drops resulted in an in situ phase change to gel-state when mixed with simulated tear fluid. The gel formation was also confirmed by viscoelastic measurements. Drug release from the gel followed non-fickian mechanism with 88% of drug released in 10 h, thus increased the residence time of the drug.Conclusion: An in situ gelling system is a valuable alternative to the conventional system with added benefits of sustained drug release which may ultimately result in improved patient compliance.
METHANOLIC FLOWER EXTRACT OF PHLOGACANTHUS THYRSIFLORUS NEES. ATTENUATES DIABETIC NEPHROPATHY IN ALLOXAN-INDUCED DIABETIC MICE
Authors: Bora Jutishna , Syiem Donkupar , Bhan Surya
Published: July 2018

Objectives: The aim of the present study is to determine the effects of Phlogacanthus thyrsiflorus on hyperglycemia and oxidative stress in kidneys of diabetic mice.Methods: Aqueous flower extract (AFE) and methanolic flower extract (MFE) were prepared. Preliminary phytochemical screenings were carried out. Diabetic mice were prepared by administering alloxan at 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w). The effects of different doses (150–550 mg/kg b.w) of the MFE on hyperglycemia were examined for short-term duration in diabetic mice. Activities of antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (CuZn-SOD and Mn-SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione reductase (GR) were examined under normal, diabetic, and diabetic-treated groups. Histopathological studies were also carried out for the above groups.Results: It has been found that the flavonoids and tannins were strongly present in MFE and further in vivo studies with MFE were carried out. It has been also observed that 250 mg/kg b.w dose of MFE showed significant reduction of blood glucose level. The activities of SOD, CAT, and GR increased in diabetic mice treated with MFE. Histological studies showed that MFE could further halt the damage caused by oxidative stress and reduced tissue injuries in diabetic mice.Conclusion: MFE of P. thyrsiflorus has positive effects in alloxan-induced diabetic mice and could be potential candidate for the detailed molecular studies and management of diabetes.
SURVEILLANCE OF APPENDICECTOMY SPECIMEN WITH HISTOMORPHOLOGICAL EVALUATION
Authors: Baisakh Pratima , Baisakh Manas Ranjan , Chinara Prafulla Kumar , Sahu Mahesh Chandra
Published: July 2018

Objective: Appendicectomy is the gold standard treatment in acute appendicitis, and in each case, a specimen should be evaluated thoroughly by a histopathologist to confirm the diagnosis and any unknown pathology. The present study aims to find out age and gender prevalence of appendicitis in a tertiary care hospital in Eastern India and various histological changes in the appendix in routine appendicectomy specimen undergoing surgery for appendicitis.Methods: A total of 780 appendicectomy specimens were studied for acute appendicitis for 2 years. Gender prevalence and age-wise incidence of appendicitis were analyzed statistically. Sections were taken from different parts of formalin-fixed appendix specimen. A thorough histological examination was done to confirm acute appendicitis and to detect any incidental unusual histological changes.Results: Of 780 cases, 343 (44%) were male and 437 (56%) were female. Females are more in number than males (p<0.001). The incidence was more common in the age group of 21–30 years (50.7%). Histological findings revealed normal vermiform appendix in 60 (7.7%), lymphoid hyperplasia in 75 (9.6%) cases, acute appendicitis and periappendicitis in 471 (60%) and 110 (14%) cases, respectively. Gangrenous appendicitis was found in 56 (7%) cases. Unexpected findings were reported in 8 (1.02%) cases, of which Enterobius vermicularis 2 (0.25%) cases, endometriosis 2 (0.25%) cases, mucocele 1 (0.12%) case, and carcinoid in 3 (0.4%) cases.Conclusions: Apart from intraoperative examination, a routine histological study of biopsy specimen reveals at times rare pathological changes which has some impact on clinical co-relation and patient management and might help to avoid any lethal complications.