bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive Value of Circulating Plasma Mitochondrial DNA for Sepsis in the Emergency Department: Observational Study Based on the Sepsis-3 Definition.
Authors: Wang Li Feng , Zhou Wei , Wang Kai Wen , He Shuang Jun , Chen Yi
Published: January 2020

Background: The definition of sepsis is regularly updated; however, there is no standard diagnostic test. To improve diagnosis and prognostic prediction, the aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of circulating plasma mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) levels in patients admitted to the emergency department (ED) with sepsis. Methods: A total of 107 patients hospitalized from June 2018 to January 2019 were divided into the sepsis (n = 72) and septic shock (n = 35) groups based on the sepsis-3 definition. Clinical and laboratory data were measured within 24 h of admission. The mtDNA concentrations in clarified plasma were estimated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Binary logistic regression analysis and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to determine predictive value of mtDNA and other markers for sepsis outcome (28-day mortality). Results: The median plasma mtDNA levels on admission were significantly higher in the septic shock patients than in the sepsis patients (P < 0.0 1), and were also higher in non-survivors than in survivors within 28 days (P < 0.01). Binary logistic regression showed that plasma lactate and mtDNA levels were independent risk factors for 28-day mortality [odds ratio (OR) 1.341, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.035–1.736, P = 0.026 and OR 13.299, 95%CI 2.765–63.956, P = 0.001, respectively).The area under the ROC curve values for plasma mtDNA levels, lactate concentration, and their combined were 0.781 (p < 0.001, 95%CI 0.671–0.891), 0.733 (p < 0.001, 95%CI 0.635–0.832), and 0.799 (p < 0.001, 95%CI 0.698–0.901), respectively. The calibration test for the combined variable showed X 2 of 2.559 and P = 0.923. Conclusion: A higher plasma mtDNA level was associated with a poor prognosis of sepsis in the emergency room, and was a superior predictor to lactate for predicting 28-day mortality.
Behavioural plasticity of Anopheles coluzzii and Anopheles arabiensis undermines LLIN community protective effect in a Sudanese-savannah village in Burkina Faso
Authors: Perugini Eleonora , Guelbeogo Wamdaogo Moussa , Calzetta Maria , Manzi Sara , Caputo Beniamino , Pichler Verena , Ranson Hilary , Sagnon N'Fale , Torre Alessandra della , Pombi Marco
Published: January 2020

Background: Despite the overall major impact of Long Lasting Insecticide treated Nets (LLINs) in eliciting individual and collective protection to malaria infections, some sub-Saharan Countries, including Burkina Faso, still carry a disproportionately high share of the global malaria burden. This study aims to analyse the possible entomological bases of LLIN limited impact, focusing on a LLIN-protected village in the Plateau Central region of Burkina Faso. Methods: Human Landing Catches (HLCs) were carried out in 2015 both indoors and outdoors at different time-windows during the highest biting activity phase for Anopheles gambiae s.l. Collected specimens were morphologically and molecularly identified and processed for Plasmodium detection and L1014F insecticide-resistance allele genotyping. Results: Almost 2.000 unfed An. gambiae s.l. (54% Anopheles coluzzii , 44% Anopheles arabiensis ) females landing on human volunteers were collected, corresponding to a median number of 23.5 females/person/hour. No significant differences are observed in median numbers of mosquitoes collected indoor and outdoor, nor between sporozoite rates in An. coluzzii (6.1%) and An. arabiensis (5.5%). The estimated median hourly Entomological Inoculation Rate (EIR) on volunteers is 1.4 infective bites/person/hour. Results do not show evidence of the biting peak during night hours typical for An. gambiae s.l. in the absence of bednet protection. The frequency of L1014F resistant allele (N=285) was 66% in An. coluzzii and 38% in An. arabiensis . Conclusions: The observed biting rate and sporozoite rates are in line with the literature data available for An. gambiae s.l . in the same geographical area before LLIN implementation and highlight high levels of malaria transmission in the study village. Homogeneous biting rate throughout the night and lack of preference for indoor-biting activity suggest the capacity of both An. coluzzii and An. arabiensis to adjust their host-seeking behaviour to bite humans despite bednet protection, accounting for the maintenance of high rates of mosquito infectivity and malaria transmission. These results – despite being limited to a local situation in Burkina Faso – represent a paradigmatic example of how high densities and behavioural plasticity in the vector population may contribute to explain the limited impact of LLINs on malaria transmission in holo-endemic Sudanese savannah areas in West Africa.
Challenges and opportunities to reduce the burden of cervical cancer in a low income, high HIV prevalence context
Authors: Adedimeji Adebola Alade , Ajeh Rogers , Pierz Amanda , Nkeng Relindis , Nde Jackson Jr. , Fuhngwa Norbert , Nsame Denis , Nji Miriam , Dzudie Anastase , Anastos Kathryn M. , Castle Philip E.
Published: January 2020

BackgroundCervical cancer is a leading cause of death among Cameroon women. The burden of cervical cancer is in part traceable to the inadequate understanding of contextual determinants of access to expanding screening and prevention opportunities. We explored multilevel individual, community and structural factors that facilitate or inhibit cervical cancer prevention in women at risk in a high HIV prevalence context. MethodsWe utilized an exploratory qualitative approach to obtain data through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. A two-stage sampling strategy was used to select 80 women and 20 men who participated in 8 focus group discussions and 8 in-depth interviews. The socio-ecological model guided the analysis of data to identify micro, meso and macro level determinants of cervical cancer screening. ResultsMicro-level factors-low level of awareness and knowledge about cervical cancer, lack of access to information about screening, low risk perceptions, poor health seeking behaviors and excessive cost of cervical cancer screening were major barriers for women seeking cervical cancer screening. Meso-level factors, such as social networks, socio-cultural norms, perceptions of the role of men and HIV-related stigma when screening is integrated into HIV care, also engender negative attitudes and behaviors. Poorly equipped health facilities and a lack of national cancer prevention policies and programs were among macro-level barriers limiting access to cervical cancer screening. ConclusionThe success of efforts to reduce the burden of cervical cancer in Cameroon rests on eliminating the myriad individual, familial, community and structural factors that limit access to screening among women in the study communities.
Bell Pepper (Capsicum annum L.) under Colored Shade Nets: Fruit Yield, Postharvest Transpiration, Color, and Chemical Composition
Authors: Díaz-Pérez Juan Carlos , St. John Kelly , Kabir Mohammad Yamin , Alvarado-Chávez J. Alberto , Cutiño-Jiménez Ania M. , Bautista Jesús , Gunawan Gunawati , Nambeesan Savithri U.
Published: January 2020

Colored shade nets may affect plant growth and fruit yield of horticultural crops. The understanding of how colored shade nets influence plants, however, is far from complete. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of colored shade nets on bell pepper fruit yield, postharvest transpiration, color, chemical composition, and antioxidant capacity. The experiment was conducted in Tifton, GA, during the spring of 2015 and 2016. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with four replications and five colored shade net treatments (black, red, silver, and white nets, and an unshaded control). The nets were placed on the top of wooden rectangular structures (15 m wide × 6 m long × 5 m high), leaving the sides of the structures uncovered. Results showed that in both 2015 and 2016, marketable and total fruit number, yield, and individual fruit weight were reduced under the unshaded treatment. There were inconsistent differences in marketable and total fruit number, yield, and individual fruit weight among colored shade nets. Postharvest fruit transpiration and skin permeance were also reduced in unshaded conditions, and no differences were found among colored shade nets. Fruit color L* and b* values were highest, and a* value was lowest in unshaded conditions. Fruit soluble solids, total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity [Cupric Reducing Antioxidant Capacity (CUPRAC) and Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC)] responded differently among colored shade nets in the 2 years. Total phenols, flavonoids, and TEAC, however, were among the highest in unshaded conditions. In conclusion, results of the present study support previous findings that shade nets increase fruit yield and quality in bell pepper compared with fruit produced in unshaded conditions. Nevertheless, there were no consistent differences in fruit total and marketable yield and postharvest fruit transpiration and chemical composition of fruit produced under colored shade nets.
Marketing Strategy, Social Responsibility, and Value Chain in the Agri-food System
Authors: Sgroi Filippo , Donia Enrica , Franco Mário , Mineo Angelo Marcello
Published: January 2020

The agri-food sector has changed significantly over the years, moving from a simple production system to a more and more industrialized one. For agents/operators involved in this sector, ensuring product quality and environmental externalities has become the key point to gaining a competitive advantage. In this context, corporate social responsibility (CSR) fits perfectly. This study analyzes the influence of CSR practices on the economic performance of a random sample of 130 agri-food companies in Italy. The results of an analysis of multiple linear regression models show that the economic performance (measured through value added and income) of agri-food enterprises seems to be influenced statistically by workplace CSR practices. Analysis of another model, during which we studied the relationship between income and the CSR practices (independent variables), highlights that operating results (economic performance) can be improved by CSR practices regarding the workplace, environment, and local community. Thus, empirical evidence shows that some CSR practices have positive effects on economic performance, with several implications for theory and practice.
Blue Radiation Interacts with Green Radiation to Influence Growth and Predominantly Controls Quality Attributes of Lettuce
Authors: Meng Qingwu , Boldt Jennifer , Runkle Erik S.
Published: January 2020

Adding green [G (500–600 nm)] radiation to blue [B (400–500 nm)] and red [R (600–700 nm)] radiation creates white radiation and improves crop inspection at indoor farms. Although G radiation can drive photosynthesis and elicit the shade-avoidance response, its effects on plant growth and morphology have been inconsistent. We postulated G radiation would counter the suppression of crop growth and promotion of secondary metabolism by B radiation depending on the B photon flux density (PFD). Lettuce (Lactuca sativa ‘Rouxai’) was grown in a growth room under nine sole-source light-emitting diode (LED) treatments with a 20-hour photoperiod or in a greenhouse. At the same photosynthetic photon flux density [PPFD (400–700 nm)] of 180 μmol·m−2·s−1, plants were grown under warm-white LEDs or increasing B PFDs at 0, 20, 60, and 100 μmol·m−2·s−1 with or without substituting the remaining R radiation with 60 μmol·m−2·s−1 of G radiation. Biomass and leaf expansion were negatively correlated with the B PFD with or without G radiation. For example, increasing the B PFD decreased fresh and dry mass by up to 63% and 54%, respectively. The inclusion of G radiation did not affect shoot dry mass at 0 or 20 μmol·m−2·s−1 of B radiation, but it decreased it at 60 or 100 μmol·m−2·s−1 of B radiation. Results suggest that the shade-avoidance response is strongly elicited by low B radiation and repressed by high B radiation, rendering G radiation ineffective at controlling morphology. Moreover, substituting R radiation with G radiation likely reduced the quantum yield. Otherwise, G radiation barely influenced morphology, foliage coloration, essential nutrients, or sensory attributes regardless of the B PFD. Increasing the B PFD increased red foliage coloration and the concentrations of several macronutrients (e.g., nitrogen and magnesium) and micronutrients (e.g., zinc and copper). Consumers preferred plants grown under sole-source lighting over those grown in the greenhouse, which were more bitter and less acceptable, flavorful, and sweet. We concluded that lettuce phenotypes are primarily controlled by B radiation and that G radiation maintains or suppresses lettuce growth depending on the B PFD.
Entre a loucura e a lucidez: crônicas de Clarice Lispector no Jornal do Brasil
Authors: Rosenbaum Yudith
Published: January 2020

This article approaches the territory of madness and unreason in Lispector’s fiction, an aspect of her work that is present in her press contributions “Das doçuras de Deus” (16 Dec. 1967), “Sem nosso sentido humano” (28 Jun. 1969), “Loucura diferente” (8 Dec. 1970), and “Lucidez perigosa” (2 May 1972). None of these texts became an autonomous short story or novel, as happened with many others originally published in Jornal do Brasil between 1967 and 1973. This study examines these four texts with a view to grasping a Claricean poetics, as it is represented through extreme perceptions of madness and unreason. I consider these texts as pre-figurations or instances of contact with motives such as freedom, adaptation, fear and habit. The texts examined here are shown to defy hegemonic rationality while pointing to the limits of discursive language.
Possible and Impossible Dialogues: Interpreting Clarice Lispector’s Interviews for Manchete and Fatos e Fotos
Authors: Williams Claire
Published: January 2020

Traces of Clarice Lispector’s experiences as an interviewer of public figures for popular magazines can be found in her literary texts, which are full of unanswered questions and searches for identity. Her characters also often yearn for an interlocutor who might understand and appreciate them, with whom they might establish a dialogue. The interviews themselves are interesting from a biographical and aesthetic point of view but also because the choice of interviewees, ranging from sportsmen to actresses and First Ladies, paints a portrait of Brazil at two key moments in history: the late 1960s, in the depths of dictatorship, and the late 1970s, when it was governed by a less repressive, but still authoritarian and military government. This article discusses recurring patterns and structures, and Lispector’s creation of an interviewer persona, paying particular attention to the interviews not yet published in book form.
Fitz, Earl E. Machado de Assis and Narrative Theory: Language, Imitation, Art, and Verisimilitude in the Last Six Novels. Bucknell UP, 2019
Authors: Dixon Paul
Published: January 2020

Earl Fitz’s Machado de Assis and Narrative Theory proposes that the Brazilian author problematizes the very tool—language—that makes such things knowable. Importantly, the book introduces methodical doubt about the extent to which, when it comes to Machado, ideas deriving from his fiction can be confidently discerned.
Sabine, Mark. José Saramago: History, Utopia, and the Necessity of Error. Legenda, 2016
Authors: Ferreira Ana Paula
Published: January 2020

Beyond reasserting the author’s continuing commitment to a revolutionary socialist worldview, Sabine demonstrates through the detailed analysis of each of the five Saramago novels in question—Levantado do chão; Memorial do convento; O ano da morte de Ricardo Reis; A jangada de pedra; and História do cerco de Lisboa—the revisions that such a commitment entails in the face of the increasingly equivocal (and enabling) authoritarian forces of neo-liberalism and globalization that exclude subaltern voices.
CHRONIC NASAL HYPER-REACTIVITY (CURRENT CLASSIFICATIONS, CLINICAL PATTERN, DIAGNOSIS)
Authors: MERKULOVA E. P. , KOLESNIKOVA S. N.
Published: January 2020

Nasal hyper-reactivity (NG) is a clinical phenomenon manifested by increased individual sensitivity of the nasal mucosa to factors that do not cause symptoms in healthy people. The concept of nasal hyperreactivity is accepted in the world literature and implies increased reactivity of the nasal mucosa caused by various physical, chemical or pharmacological stimuli [1, 2]. Nasal hyper-reactivity is found in 86% of children with bronchial asthma.
NEUROLOGIC MANIFESTATIONS IN COELIAC DISEASE PATIENTS
Authors: DMITRIEVA Y. A. , ZAKHAROVA I. N.
Published: January 2020

Currently coeliac disease is considered as a systemic immune-mediated disease occurring in genetically predisposed persons in regular gluten consumption. Extraintestinal manifestations of the disease, including various neurologic disturbances have the significant specific weight in a complex of gluten-dependent coeliac disease symptoms. The article provides a review of the literature data on frequency and clinical peculiarities of various neurological manifestations of the coeliac disease, and possible pathogenetic mechanisms of the central and peripheral nervous system lesion are considered
Prevalence of Carotid Artery Calcification Detected on Panoramic Radiographs of Patients with a History of Hypertension or Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Saberi Zahra , Jalalian Faranak , Khajooi Amir R. S. , Dehdari Emad
Published: January 2020

Background:

Atherosclerosis is characterized by the deposition of lipids on the internal walls of blood vessels, damaging various tissues of the body by complete or partial occlusion of the vessels. Sometimes the calcified plaques in the carotid artery can be detected on panoramic radiographs, helping the practitioners decrease the risk of Cerebrovascular Accident (CAV).

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the frequency of Carotid Artery Calcification (CAC) detected in panoramic radiographs of patients with hypertension or myocardial infarction.

Methods:

A total of 400 panoramic radiographs of patients >40 years of age were evaluated. The images belonged to patients with a history of hypertension or myocardial infarction and healthy individuals referred from the AL Zahra Cardiology Department to Isfahan School of Dentistry and a private oral and maxillofacial imaging center. All the images were evaluated for the presence of CAC. Data were analyzed with SPSS 19, using the Chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test, t-test and ANOVA (α=0.05).

Results:

The prevalence rate of CAC was 4%. According to the results, there was a significant relationship between CAC and hypertension (P=0.003), with no significant relationship between the prevalence of these lesions, stage of hypertension and myocardial infarction.

Conclusion:

According to the results, the prevalence of CAC on panoramic radiographs was significant; therefore, it seems that the detection of CAC on panoramic radiographs of patients must be considered by dentists.
Emergency Management in Eating Disorders
Authors: Needham Heather , Ferguson Elizabeth , Takemoto Darcie , Idicula Sindhu
Published: January 2020

Aims and Scope::

Eating disorders commonly present during the adolescent and
young adult years, and are complex in that they are a group of psychiatric diagnoses with
medical complications.

Methods::

The diagnosis of an eating disorder can often go undetected while a patient is being
evaluated for organic causes of weight loss. Anorexia nervosa, in particular, has the
highest mortality rate of any psychiatric diagnosis. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual
of Mental Disorders 5th Edition (DSM-5), there are several diagnoses that are classified as
eating or feeding disorders.

Conclusion::

This article will discuss anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, with a focus on
medical and psychiatric emergencies that are important for primary care providers to keep in
mind when caring for adolescents and young adults.
Les Périodiques comme médiateurs
Authors: Stead Evanghelia
Published: January 2020

Ce numéro spécial émane du 7e colloque annuel de la European Society for Periodical Research (ESPRit), qui portait sur ‘Les Périodiques comme médiateurs: les périodiques dans l’écosystème de la culture imprimée et visuelle’. L’événement, dont l’organisation à Paris m’a été confiée, s’est tenu à la Bibliothèque nationale de France, à l’Inalco et à l’université Paris-Sorbonne en juin 2018. Cette manifestation bilingue, qui a réuni des chercheurs jeunes et confirmés, a analysé les rôles complexes des périodiques dans un riche éventail de contextes et milieux culturels et scientifiques, sous plusieurs angles: histoire de la littérature, histoire de l’art, presse et médias, études visuelles, littérature comparée, études théâtrales, cultures scientifiques, études de traduction et de réception. Une large palette de publications en série a été examinée: revues, magazines, gazettes, cahiers, suppléments, annales, anthologies, collections, quotidiens, voire une émission radiophonique. Ce numéro spécial propose un choix de contributions, développées en articles de recherche. En les présentant et en rappelant les arguments et thèmes du colloque, l’introduction offre un aperçu des enquêtes, et met en valeur quelques hypothèses signifiantes pour les études sur les périodiques aujourd’hui.
Real-world outcomes of long-term prednisone and deflazacort use in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: experience at a single, large care center
Authors: Marden Jessica R , Freimark Jonathan , Yao Zhiwen , Signorovitch James , Tian Cuixia , Wong Brenda L
Published: January 2020

Aim:To assess outcomes among patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy receiving deflazacort or prednisone in real-world practice.Methods:Clinical data for 435 boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center were studied retrospectively using time-to-event and regression analyses.Results:Median ages at loss of ambulation were 15.6 and 13.5 years among deflazacort- and prednisone-initiated patients, respectively. Deflazacort was also associated with a lower risk of scoliosis and better ambulatory function, greater % lean body mass, shorter stature and lower weight, after adjusting for age and steroid duration. No differences were observed in whole body bone mineral density or left ventricular ejection fraction.Conclusion:This single center study adds to the real-world evidence associating deflazacort with improved clinical outcomes.
Leyes de escalamiento y criticalidad en modelos de votantes y dinámica neuronal
Authors: Aldana González Maximino
Published: January 2020

Una propiedad importante de muchos sistemas complejos es la presencia de leyes de escalamiento, las cuales se caracterizan por el hecho de que las variables que describen el comportamiento del sistema se relacionan a través de leyes de potencias. Las leyes de escalamiento generalmente tienen dos implicaciones importantes: (i) la auto–similitud del sistema en un gran rango de escalas (cada parte del sistema se parece al sistema completo), y, (ii) los “eventos raros” (es decir, eventos poco probables) no son tan raros y ocurren mucho más frecuentemente de lo que se esperaría. En este trabajo discutimos la criticalidad dinámica como uno de los principales mecanismos que generan leyes de escalamiento en sistemas complejos, enfocándonos principalmente en modelos de formación de opiniones y en redes neuronales. Veremos que dos sistemas aparentemente muy distintos (redes de votantes y redes neuronales) pueden describirse prácticamente con las mismas herramientas conceptuales y metodológicas, lo cual ilustra la universalidad de los fenómenos críticos y las correspondientes leyes de escalamiento. 
Isolation, Definition and Chemical Control some of the Bacteria that Cause Contamination of Wall Paintings in Caves
Authors: El-Gorj Fatma. M. A , Aisha M. A. , Maznah W.O.
Published: January 2020

Background: Caves are unique natural features and habitats where specialized organisms grow. One of the world’s main concerns is that of the conservation and preservation of our cultural heritage, including rock art and wall paintings within caves.

Methods: This study was conducted by collecting the samples scraped from wall surfaces at 19 different location in painted caves of Niah cave, Sarawak, and Tempurung cave, Perak. Morphospecies identification and genomic DNA polymorphisms were used to identify the two strains of bacteria. The growth was controlled chemical method using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), Calcium hypochlorite Ca(OCl)2 and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂).

Results: Morphospecies identification was carried out using a light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), both the bacteria, bacteria I and bacteria II were isolated from the soil samples and were Gram-negative bacteria. Based on BLAST search, bacteria I showed 100% with Stenotrophomonas sp (NR 024708.1), and bacteria II showed 100% with Cryptococcus liquefaciens (NR 043289. 1). The growth was controlled chemical method using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), Calcium hypochlorite Ca(OCl)2 and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The laboratory studies showed that three chemical were effectively eliminated colonies/cells of the both bacteria compared to the colonies found on the control pate this study.
Estimation the Presence of Heavy Metals and Trace Elements in Indian Herbal Cosmetics by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer
Authors: Chakraborty Krishnasis , Chaudhary Suraj
Published: January 2020

Heavy metals are identically Pb, Cd and micronutrients elements like Ca, Mg, Al, Cu and Zn were quantitatively estimated using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS). Similarly, heavy metals such as As and Hg were quantitatively estimated by Hydride Generation Technique i.e. Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectrometry method expending nitrogen as carrier gas in 30 herbal cosmetic preparations available in Indian markets. The results designate that among the toxic heavy metals. In the present study, Arsenic was found significantly well below the permissible limit, but Cd was found above the permissible limit in the all samples. Trace elements like Ca and Mg were found in higher amount than compare to Al, Cu, and Zn. Presence of trace elements can corroborate to be beneficial but existence of toxic heavy metals in such amounts certainly has adverse effects on the consumer health who always take the herbal products in an impression of being safe because of the natural origin. In conclusion, execution of strict and isolated regulatory guidelines and promotion of Good Analytical Practice (GAP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Agricultural and Control Practices (GACP) is suggested for herbal cosmetics by WHO and other regulatory agencies. This study presents the status of heavy metals and trace elements in marketed herbal cosmetic formulations and provides a simple and convenient AAS method which can effectively be adopted at Industrial level for the quality control and standardization of herbal cosmetic preparations and other related products.
Preparation and Evaluation of Oral Dispersible Formulations of Amlodipine Besylate
Authors: Rai Akanksha , Sharma Shalini
Published: January 2020

Orally Dispersible type formulations became a really fashionable dose form as they disintegrate quickly (< one minute) within the mouth and don’t need water for administration. This is often thanks to the raised patient compliance, pleasant mouth feel, simple administration & swallowing and speedy disintegration and dissolution. vasodilative may be a hypertensive drug used for re-experiencing pressure.
Antihypertensive Prescription Pattern and Associated Medication Costs: A Retrospective Review of Prescriptions in A Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Paul Onah Otor , Kaigama Aliyu , Abdulmalik Ahmed
Published: January 2020

Background:  Hypertension is the leading cardiovascular disease most associated with high risk of morbidity and mortality. Recent evidence indicate that in low and medium income countries hypertension is a growing healthcare challenge compounding already existing high burden of  infectious diseases. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce the risk of associated secondary complications which increases the risk of mortality. The choice of antihypertensive medications vary widely between and within health facilities, however concerns remain whether prescribed drugs affordable as well as optimize treatment outcomes.

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine antihypertensive prescription pattern and its impact on affordability of drug treatment

Results/Discussions: The results showed that monotherapy with CCBs were the most prescribed drugs accounting for over half of all antihypertensive prescriptions. In addition CCB based combination therapies were found in more than three quarters of all prescriptions. The cost of one month supply of innovator brands was significantly higher than generic versions, which made them far less affordable to majority of patients. The prescription pattern did not significantly adhere to current treatment guidelines for the management of hypertension. This makes the case for improvement in prescription practices that emphasize rational drug therapy that take into cognizance costs, particularly among the poor.

Conclusion: Antihypertensive prescription pattern did not largely comply with guidelines and the widespread prescription of innovator drug brands makes medicines largely unaffordable to majority of patients. It is imperative that drug treatment of high blood pressure allow patients to benefit from reduced cost of low priced generic drugs.
Prevalence of Potential Drug-Drug Interactions in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Sara Nasrollahi  , Neelathahalli Kasturirangan Meera
Published: January 2020

Hospitalized  neonates  in neonatal  intensive  care  unit  (NICU)  are  usually  exposed  to great  number  of drugs  and they  are susceptible to adverse outcomes due to their immature functioning organs and reasons like inappropriate  dosing or choice of medicines. We aimed  to assess  the prevalence  and characteristics  of potential  drug-  drug  interactions  (pDDIs)  in the NICU.  In this prospective observational study, case sheets of neonates who were in the NICU for more than 24 hours and were administered with at least two drugs were analysed for pDDIs by using Lexicomp database. All pDDIs were classified according to their severity, reliability, risk level and their underlying mechanisms. Potential predictors and potential outcomes of pDDIs were also evaluated. We found that 66.2% of neonates were exposed  to at least  one pDDI.  Total of 902  pDDIs  comprising  of 70 distinct  pDDIs  were  identified  of which  88% were  moderate  in severity. 11.8% and 0.2% of them were major and minor respectively. Most of pDDIs belonged to category C (61.4%) and category D (30%) of risk level. Majority of interactions  had pharmacodynamic  mechanism  (65.7%) and fair scientific evidences (68.6%). The most common potential adverse drug events included increased sympathomimetic effects, nephrotoxicity and alteration of serum concentration of drugs. Systemic  anti-infective  were  involved  in majority  of interactions.  pDDIs  were more  prevalent  in neonates  with  gestational  age of <32 weeks,  >11 days of hospital stay and those who received >11 concomitant drugs. Identification of pDDIs and monitoring the neonates for potential adverse outcomes is mandatory especially in high risk conditions to avoid or minimize the actual harm.
Preparation, Process Optimization and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Lyophilized Etoposide Loaded Nanoparticles
Authors: Priyal Patel  , Shailesh Koradia  , Falgun Mehta  , Ashok Mahajan  , Jayvadan Patel
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study was to develop freeze dried Polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with etoposide  intended  to be administered  intravenously  with improved  therapeutic  efficacy  of the drug and thereby  reduced dose related toxicity associated with it. The etoposide loaded nanoparticles were prepared using modified spontaneous emulsification solvent diffusion method (SESD).The in Vitro release study of etoposide loaded Polylactide-co-glycolide  (PLGA)–Nanoparticles  NP was carried  by dialysis  bag diffusion  technique.The  incorporation  efficiency  was found  to be higher  in modified  SESD  technique  than  emulsification  solvent  evaporation  method.  The  release  behavior  of etoposide  exhibited  a biphasic pattern characterized by an initial burst release followed by a slow and continuous release. The nanoparticles were characterized by particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, DSC and FTIR. The long term stability was achieved by lyophilisation  technique.  The cell line study using XTT assay on LNCaP  prostate  tumor  cell lines revealed  that etoposide loaded nanoparticles showed greater cancer cell inhibition compared to plain nanoparticles and marketed conventional formulations.
Induksi Kalus Tanaman Kentang Dombu (Solanum tuberosum L.) Secara In Vitro Dengan Penambahan Ekstrak Tomat Dan Air Kelapa
Authors: Sari Riska , Paserang Asri P. , Pitopang Ramadanil , Suwastika I Nengah
Published: January 2020

Penelitian Induksi Kalus Tanaman Kentang Dombu (SolanumtuberosumL.) secara In vitro dengan penambahan Konsentrasi Ekstrak Tomat dan Air Kelapa, telah diilaksanakan pada bulan Mei sampai September 2018 di Laboratorium Kultur Jaringan Jurusan Biologi Fakultas Matematika dan Ilmu Pengetahuan Alam Universitas Tadulako. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh konsentrasi ekstrak tomat dan air kelapa terhadap pembentukan kalus tanaman kentang (S. tuberosum L.) secara in vitro.Penelitian ini dilakukan berdasarkan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan 7 perlakuan dan diulang sebanyak 4 kali. dan Dalam setiap satu botol kultur menggunakan ditanam 2 eksplan. Perlakuan yang dicobakan terdiri dari: T1 (MS0 + ekstrak tomat 10 %),T2 (MS0 + ekstrak tomat 15 %), T3 (MS0 + ekstrak tomat 20 %), T4 (MS0 + air kelapa 20 %), T5 (MS0 + air kelapa 25 %), T6 (MS0 + air kelapa30 %), T7 (Kontrol/MS0). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Hari pembentukan kalus tercepat, yang terbentuk lebih cepat pada perlakuan T6 dengan rata-rata 1,5 HST. Media yang paling baik digunakan pada pertumbuhan kalus terdapat adalah pada T7 (Kontrol)
Peramalan Rate of Return Saham Menggunakan Metode Brown’s Weighted Exponential Moving Average dengan Optimasi Levenberg-Marquardt
Authors: Abdullah Nur Hasanah , Junaidi  , Handayani Lilies
Published: January 2020

Stocks can be defined as a sign of the participation of unilateral capital in a company or a limited liability company in the form of proof of a company's assets and it is formed as a valueble proof letters as a statement of participating in capital. Return stockis one of the factors that motivates investors to invest or interact and also a reward for the courage of investors to take risks or investments. PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia is one of the largest banks in Indonesia that experiences an increase in stock prices every year. The Brown's Weighted Exponential Moving Average (BWEMA) method which is a combination of the Weighted Exponential Moving Average (WEMA) and Brown's Double Exponential Smoothing (BDES) methods will be used in this study. The data used is the daily data of closing price of the stock (closing price) of PT. Bank Rakyat Indonesia on February 6, 2018 until February 6, 2019. MSE and MAPE BWEMA values ​​were obtained at 6124.222 and 1.831685%, while MSE and MAPE WEMA values ​​were 7559.211 and 1.998439% respectively. The results obtained show that the BWEMA method has smaller MSE and MAPE values. This shows that the BWEMA method is better than the WEMA method in terms of forecasting. As a results the BWEMA method is continued to calculate the forecasts rate of return for the next 7 days. The average value returns obtained is 0.111497% stock  which means during the period of the investment, investors get a profit of 0.111497%% per day of the total funds invested in the shares of PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk.
An Application to Control Media Player with Voice Commands
Authors: AVUÇLU Emre , ÖZÇİFÇİ Ayhan , ELEN Abdullah
Published: January 2020

Using technology today is of great importance in terms of making people's lives easier. It has become very easy to run some applications with technology. In this study, an application that provides media player control with voice commands was developed. This application was developed to address the needs of people who cannot listen to music on their own due to any disability. The application was implemented in C# programming language. In order to manage the media player with voice commands, voice recognition libraries were first used. In the developed application, operations with keyboard and mouse can be done with voice commands. Voice commands can be sent with the wireless headset from anywhere in the shooting area.
Verdig = vanlig og norsk: Nyankomne ungdommers verdighet i introduksjonsklasser
Authors: Christensen Ingrid Reite
Published: January 2020

In a society of global mobility and flows of refugees and internally displaced people, the question of dignity is critical. This In this chapter I ask what characterises dignity among newly arrived youth in their everyday lives at school in Norway. Newly arrived youth are in a fragile state in becoming well-integrated citizens and a productive part of society. These young people have a past to cope with, a present to orient themselves in, and they are also are obliged to succeed in the future. Their dignity is due to their possibilities to act in a complex world. This chapter takes a starting point in the data material from participant observation in a so-called “introduction class” in Norway for newly arrived youth. An introduction class is a first phase of schooling offered prior to a transferal to local, public schools. I present an everyday situation as this transfer takes place, and read it through the lens of Deleuze and Guattaris posthuman ethics. More than predefined given rights, dignity is explored as experiences of equality and as possibilities to act in everyday lives. The material shows high motivation and anxieties of pupils and teachers in the transfer process to local schools. The prerequisites for joining their local school classes, however, is not clear for the pupils. The teachers encourage the pupils to work hard and suggest a number of actions in order to join regular schools and becoming so-called “ordinary”. The analyses conclude that equality seems a high, but hidden standard. The results may be that in practice, pupils are not treated as equals, and that the ideals of dignity do not seem relevant. These findings point out a lack of relevant concepts of dignity in school. In spite of high standards of dignity in the curriculum, the newly arrived youth may suffer from inequalities. I argue that there is a need for a debate on the concepts of dignity in school. I promote a dynamic understanding of dignity, embracing diversity and the specific needs of the pupils, as well as strengthening the teacher’s agency.
Menneskeverd – Utviklingshemming – Skole: Verdighet som grunnlag for pedagogisk praksis
Authors: Lybæk Lena , Svendsen Åse-May
Published: January 2020

This article aims to discuss questions about dignity and children with cognitive disabilities (named mental retardation in ICD-10), with questions about inclusive or segregated education. In the first part of the article we discuss theoretical approaches to dignity. Traditional understandings of dignity are based in enlightenment humanism with its focus on autonomy and reason, or on dignity achieved through the cultivation of virtues. We discuss different approaches to inclusive notions of dignity. First, we discuss approaches that take their point of departure in vulnerability, and mutuality in human relationships, exemplified by Eva Kittay, Alasdair MacIntyre, and Martha Nussbaum. Subsequently, we present approaches that emphasize the singularity of the human being and upholding human rights as the basis for human dignity, exemplified by Avishai Margalit and Julia Kristeva. In the second part of the article, we discuss how five experienced teachers speak about dignity and pedagogical practice with children with cognitive disabilities. We point to how both integrated and segregated practices in schools are justified in and may be connected to different theories of dignity.
K.H. Sholeh Darat’s Hadith Understanding In Majmū’ah Al-Sharī’ah Al-Kaifiyah Lil Al-Awwām Book
Authors: Rohmansyah Rohmansyah
Published: January 2020

This article aims to explain the understanding of K.H. Sholeh Darat in the Majmū'ah al-Syarī'ah al-Kaifiyah lil Awwām book by looking at the social context that occurred in the past when the hadith was delivered. This paper uses a descriptive-analytical method with a sociological-historical approach and syarh hadith. The findings show that K.H. Sholeh Darat is an ulama from Java who was present in the midst of a society is closely related with the traditions of a plural society both santri, priyai and abangan. He tends to understand the hadith textually under certain conditions, but on the other hand it tends to be contextual depending on the situation and environmental conditions he experiences or ṣāliḥun li kulli zamānin wa makānin. Besides, it is undeniable that the understanding is less from the methodology of hadith understanding that was initiated by contemporary hadith experts such as textual understanding of tasyabbuh hadith and hadith of pilgrimage to the Prophet's tomb. However, he understands the hadith about intercession contextually
An Application of Computational Fluid Dynamics to Optimize Municipal Sewage Networks; A Case of Tororo Municipality, Eastern Uganda.
Authors: Semwogerere Twaibu , Awichi R. , Lwanyaga J. D. , Noah Esemu Joseph , Masanja Verdiana G. , Nampala H.
Published: January 2020

Two-phase pipe ﬂow is a common occurrence in many industrial applications such as sewage, water, oil, and gas transportation. Accurate prediction of liquid velocity, holdup and pressure drop is of vast importance to ensure eﬀective design and operation of ﬂuid transport systems. This paper aimed at the simulation of a two-phase ﬂow of air and sewage (water) using an open source software OpenFOAM. Numerical Simulations have been performed using varying dimensions of pipes as well as their inclinations. Specifically, a Standard k- turbulence model and the Volume of Fluid (VOF) free water surface model is used to solve the turbulent mixture flow of air and sewage (water). A two dimensional, 0.5m diameter pipe of 20m length is used for the CFD approach based on the Navier-Stokes equations. Results showed that the ﬂow pattern behaviour is influenced by the pipe diameters as well as their inclination. It is concluded that the most effective way to optimize a sewer network system for Tororo Municipality conditions and other similar situations, is by adjusting sewer diameters and slope gradients and expanding the number of sewer network connections of household and industries from 535 (i.e., 31.2% of total) to at least 1,200 (70% of total).
Steam engines in agricultural use in Croatia and Slavonia during the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy
Authors: Fabijanić Goran , Čopec Krešimir , Kovačev Igor
Published: January 2020

Industrial revolution and modernization of agriculture in Croatia and Slavonia began in mid-19th century and evolved at a slower pace compared to the other countries of the Austrian Empire. The main reasons were lack of capital, shortage of good river- and land traffic routes, slowness in the construction of railways, slowness in the introduction of steam engines, lack of skilled workforce and extensive farming. The second agricultural crisis in Europe, which lasted from 1873 until 1895, motivated large holdings in Croatia and Slavonia to introduce steam engines and machines for the purpose of rationalization of agricultural production. Locomobiles were mostly represented on holdings with over 575.5 ha. The then country of Slavonia, as an eminently agrarian region and the main source of wheat was leader in the use of steam engines, steam ploughs and steam-powered machines in agriculture. The locomobile was used in agriculture until the mid-20th century and was discontinued with the growing use of tractors with internal combustion engine and the use of combine harvesters. Until 1918, Croatian lands were a part of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy.
Narrowband array processing beamforming technique for electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Chitturi Venkatratnam , Farrukh Nagi
Published: January 2020

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) has a large potential as a two dimensional imaging technique and is gaining attention among researchers across various fields of engineering. Beamforming techniques stem from the array signal processing field and is used for spatial filtering of array data to evaluate the location of objects. In this work the circular electrodes are treated as an array of sensors and beamforming technique is used to localize the object(s) in an electrical field. The conductivity distributions within a test tank is obtained by an EIT system in terms of electrode voltages. These voltages are then interpolated using elliptic partial differential equations. Finally, a narrowband beamformer detects the peak in the output response signal to localize the test object(s). Test results show that the beamforming technique can be used as a secondary method that may provide complementary information about accurate position of the test object(s) using an eight electrode EIT system. This method could possibly open new avenues for spatial EIT data filtering techniques with an understanding that the inverse problem is more likely considered here as a source localization algorithm instead as an image reconstruction algorithm.
A circuit for simultaneous measurements of skin electrical conductance, susceptance, and potential
Authors: Martinsen Ørjan G. , Kalvøy Håvard , Bari Dindar S. , Tronstad Christian
Published: January 2020

A circuit is presented that enables measurement of skin electrical conductance, susceptance, and potential simultaneously beneath the same monopolar electrode. Example measurements are shown to confirm the function of the circuit. The measurements are also in accordance with earlier findings that changes in skin conductance and potential do not always correspond and hence contain unique information.
REMARKABLE JOURNEY OF A LOST PORTRAIT
Authors: Dean I.
Published: January 2020

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SECTION «INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION» AT THE RAMI MGIMO-75 CONVENTION
Authors: Konnov V. I. , Silantyeva M. V.
Published: January 2020

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The Influence of Effective Leadership and Organizational Trust to Teacher’s Work Motivation and Organizational Commitment
Authors: Pranitasari Diah
Published: January 2020

This study aims to determine how the influence of organizational leadership and organizational effectiveness on work motivation and organizational commitment of teachers. This research was conducted at a private high school in Rawamangun Village, Pulo Gadung Subdistrict, East Jakarta. In this study using a saturated sample technique that is the entire population used as a sample, namely 115 respondents. The Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method was chosen as a statistical analysis technique. The results showed that the effectiveness of leadership and organizational trust had a direct positive effect on work motivation. The effectiveness of organizational leadership and trust has a direct positive effect on organizational commitment. Leadership effectiveness has a direct positive effect on organizational trust and work motivation has a direct positive effect on organizational commitment. The output of this research is that it can provide input for the school in determining policies specifically in determining the position requirements or the recruitment of school principals so that it is expected to increase the confidence, work motivation and commitment of teachers in school organizations.