bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid GA-PSO Optimization of Artificial Neural Network for Forecasting Electricity Demand
Authors: Anand Atul , Suganthi L
Published: December 2017

In the present study, a hybrid optimizing algorithm has been proposed using Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) for Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to improve the estimation of electricity demand of the state of Tamil Nadu in India. The GA-PSO model optimizes the coefficients of factors of gross state domestic product (GSDP), per capita demand, income and consumer price index (CPI) that affect the electricity demand. Based on historical data of 25 years from 1991 till 2015 , the simulation results of GA-PSO models are having greater accuracy and reliability than single optimization methods based on either PSO or GA. The forecasting results of ANN-GA-PSO are better than models based on single optimization such as ANN-BP, ANN-GA, ANN-PSO models. Further the paper also forecasts the electricity demand of Tamil Nadu based on two scenarios. First scenario is the "as-it-is" scenario , the second scenario is based on milestones set for achieving goals of "Vision 2023" document for the state. The present research also explores the causality between the economic growth and electricity demand in case of Tamil Nadu. The research indicates that the direct causality exists between GSDP and the electricity demand of the state.
A Quantum Hybrid PSO Combined with Fuzzy K-NN Approach to Feature Selection and Cell Classification in Cervical Cancer Detection
Authors: Iliyasu Abdullah M. , Fatichah Chastine
Published: December 2017

A quantum hybrid (QH) intelligent approach that blends the adaptive search capability of the quantum-behaved particle swarm optimisation (QPSO) method with the intuitionistic rationality of traditional fuzzy k-nearest neighbours (Fuzzy k-NN) algorithm (known simply as the Q-Fuzzy approach) is proposed for efficient feature selection and classification of cells in cervical smeared (CS) images. From an initial multitude of seventeen (17) features describing the geometry, colour, and texture of the CS images, the QPSO stage of our proposed technique is used to select the best subset features (i.e. global best particles) that represent a pruned down collection of seven (7) features. Using a dataset of almost 1000 images, performance evaluation of our proposed Q-Fuzzy approach assesses the impact of our feature selection on classification accuracy by way of three experimental scenarios that are compared alongside two other approaches: The All-features (i.e. classification without prior feature selection) and another hybrid technique combining the standard PSO algorithm with the Fuzzy k-NN technique (P-Fuzzy approach). In the first and second scenarios, we further divided the assessment criteria in terms of classification accuracy based on the choice of best features and those in terms of the different categories of the cervical cells. In the third scenario, we introduced new QH hybrid techniques, i.e. QPSO combined with other supervised learning methods, and compared the classification accuracy alongside our proposed Q-Fuzzy approach. Furthermore, we employed statistical approaches to establish qualitative agreement with regards to the feature selection in scenarios 1 and 3. The synergy between the QPSO and Fuzzy k-NN in the proposed Q-Fuzzy approach marginally improves classification accuracy as manifest in the reduction in number cell features, which is crucial for effective cervical cancer detection and diagnosis.
Self-Sampling for HPV Testing: Increased Cervical Cancer Screening Participation and Incorporation in International Screening Programs
Authors: Gupta Sarah , Palmer Christina , Bik Elisabeth M. , Cardenas Juan P. , Nuñez Harold , Kraal Laurens , Bird Sara , Bowers Jennie , Smith Alison , Walton Nathaniel A. , Goddard Audrey D. , Almonacid Daniel E. , Richman Jessica , Apte Zachary S.
Published: December 2017

In most industrialized countries, screening programs for cervical cancer have shifted from cytology (Pap smear or ThinPrep) alone on clinician-obtained samples to the addition of screening for human papillomavirus (HPV), its main causative agent. For HPV testing, self-sampling instead of clinician-sampling has proven to be equally accurate, in particular for assays that use nucleic acid amplification techniques. In addition, HPV testing of self-collected samples in combination with a follow-up Pap smear in case of a positive result is more effective in detecting precancerous lesions than a Pap smear alone. Self-sampling for HPV testing has already been adopted by some countries, while others have started trials to evaluate its incorporation into national cervical cancer screening programs. Self-sampling may result in more individuals willing to participate in cervical cancer screening, because it removes many of the barriers that prevent women, especially those in low socioeconomic and minority populations, from participating in regular screening programs. Several studies have shown that the majority of women who have been underscreened but who tested HPV-positive in a self-obtained sample, will visit a clinic for follow-up diagnosis and management. Additionally, a self-collected sample can also be used for vaginal microbiome analysis, which can provide additional information about HPV infection persistence as well as vaginal health in general.
The Application of Non-Invasive Apoptosis Detection Sensor (IADS) on Histone Deacetylation Inhibitors (HDACi) Induced Breast Cancer Cell Death
Authors: Hsu Kai-Wen , Huang Chien-Yu , Tam Ka-Wai , Lin Chun-Yu , Huang Li-Chi , Lin Ching-Ling , Hsieh Wen-Shyang , Chi Wei-Ming , Chang Yu-Jia , Wei Po-Li , Lee Chia-Hwa
Published: December 2017

Breast cancer is the most common malignancies in women and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtype is a breast cancer subset without ER, PR and HER2 expression, limiting treatment options and presenting a poorer survival rate. Thus, we investigated whether HDACi would be used as potential anti-cancer therapy on breast cancer cells. In this study, we found TNBC and HER2-enrich breast cancers are extremely sensitive to Panobinostat, Belinostat of HDACi via experiments of cell viability assay, apoptotic marker identification and flow cytometry measurement. On the other hand, we developed a bioluminescence based live cell non-invasive apoptosis detection sensor (IADS) detection system to evaluate the quantitative and kinetic analyses of apoptotic cell death by HDAC treatment on breast cancer cells. In addition, the use of HDACi may also be accompanied with chemotherapeutic agent such as doxorubicin to synergic drug sensitivity on TNBC cell (MDA-MB-231), but not in breast normal epithelia cells (MCF-10A), providing therapeutic benefits against breast tumor in clinic.
A incidência dos direitos sociais na esfera privada
Authors: Carvalho Osvaldo Ferreira de
Published: December 2017

O artigo objetiva apresentar argumentações favoráveis à incidência dos direitos sociais na esfera privada. Os direitos sociais são qualificados como autênticos direitos fundamentais que impõem o seu cumprimento e assegurem seu exercício mediante uma garantia jurídica adequada. Assim, será explicitado que o valor solidariedade ao atuar como critério hermenêutico dos direitos fundamentais, nomeadamente dos direitos sociais, implica a assunção de que o dever de garantir estes direitos não é tarefa só do Estado, mas também de agentes privados.
Consórcios públicos, federalismo cooperativo e intermunicipalidade
Authors: Farias Talden
Published: December 2017

O consórcio público é a pessoa jurídica, formada por entes federativos, que visa promover a prestação integrada dos serviços públicos no intuito de garantir maior celeridade, economicidade e eficiência. Ocorre que a maioria dos Municípios não consegue dar conta de suas atribuições sem se valer dos repasses estaduais ou federais – afora as deficiências de infraestrutura, mão-de-obra qualificada e isolamento territorial. Ao permitir vencer o isolamento econômico e social por meio da aglutinação de forças, o consórcio público se revela um excelente instrumento de efetivação do federalismo cooperativo, especialmente no que diz respeito à prestação de políticas públicas locais de forma intermunicipal.
Self-cleaning in public procurement: operational potentiality and regulation in the European Union
Authors: Muñoz Jaime Rodríguez-Arana
Published: December 2017

Public procurement is one of the causes for corruption. In addition to the punitive aspect, it is necessary to study other approaches that address the preventive aspect. These would be the compliance and self-cleaning techniques, originating in English-speaking countries. The European Union has just regulated self-cleaning in its public procurement Directive from 2014, establishing a series of characteristics to be developed by the Member States.
El principio precautorio como fuente de responsabilidad estatal frente a los derechos fundamentales
Authors: Martínez María Florencia Ramos
Published: December 2017

El presente trabajo tiene por objeto analizar el impacto del principio precautorio en la responsabilidad civil del Estado, bajo la perspectiva de los derechos fundamentales.
EFFECT OF ACIDIC AND ALKALINE MEDIUM ON FEXOFENADINE BRANDS USING UV SPECTROPHOTOMETER
Authors:   Fatima Qamar, Naveed Safila
Published: December 2017

Fexofenadine is widely used drug for allergic conditions especially Rhiniti and is a selective histamine H1 receptor antagonist. In our recent research we study the effect of acidic and alkaline medium on four different brands of Fexofenadine, for this the solutions of different brands of Fexofenadine were subjected to neutral,alkaline and acidic medium. When Fexofenadine brands subjected to 0.1 N HCl and 0.1N NaOH for 30 minutes, Fexofenadine brands showed variable availability results. Xanidine and Telefast donot show any change in absorbance in acidic medium but shows a decrease in absorbance in alkaline medium. While Allerga shows a decrease in absorbance in both acidic and alkaline medium. Fexet also shows a decrease in absorbance in acidic medium but shows a increase in absorbance in alkaline medium.
An Embedded Grid-Free Approach for Near-Wellbore Streamline Simulation
Authors: Wang Bin , Feng Yin , Du Juan , Wang Yihui , Wang Sijie , Yang Ruiyue
Published: December 2017

Reactive-transport phenomena, such as carbon dioxide sequestration and microbial enhanced oil recovery (EOR), have been of interest in streamline-based simulation (SLS). Tracing streamlines launched from a wellbore is important, especially for time-sensitive transport behaviors. However, discretized gridblocks are usually too large compared with the wellbore radius. Field-scale simulations with local-grid-refinement (LGR) models often consume huge computational time. An embedded grid-free approach to integrate near-wellbore transport behaviors into streamline simulations is developed, comprising two stages of development: tracing streamlines in a wellblock (a gridblock containing wells) and coupling streamlines with neighboring grids. The velocity field in a wellblock is produced using a gridless virtual-boundary-element method (VBEM), where streamlines are numerically traced with the fourth-order Runge-Kutta (RK4) method (Butcher 2008). The local streamline system is then connected with the global streamline system, which is produced with the Pollock (1988) algorithm. Finally, the reactive-transport equation will be solved along these streamlines.

The algorithm presented for solving near-wellbore streamlines is verified by both a commercial finite-element simulator and a Pollock-algorithm-based 3D streamline simulator. A series of computational cases of reactive-transport simulation is studied to demonstrate the applicability, accuracy, and efficiency of the proposed method. Velocity field, time-of-flight (TOF), streamline pattern, and concentration distribution produced by different approaches are analyzed. Results show that the presented method can accurately perform near-wellbore streamline simulations in a time-effective manner. The algorithm can be directly applied to one grid containing multiple wells or to off-center wells. Furthermore, assuming streamlines are evenly launched from the gridblock boundary or ignoring transport in the wellblock is not always reasonable, and may lead to a significant error.

This study provides a simple and grid-free solution, but is capable of capturing the flow field near the wellbore with significant accuracy and computational efficiency. The method is promising for reservoir SLS with time-sensitive transport, and other simulations requiring an accurate assessment of interactions between wells in one particular gridblock.
Explicações para o Reconhecimento das Perdas por Impairment do Goodwill
Authors: Pacheco Tatiane , Pacheco Thayse , Campagnoni Mariana , Rover Suliani
Published: December 2017

Este estudo objetivou identificar as explicações para o reconhecimento das perdas por impairment do goodwill, sendo este o resultante de combinações de negócios, nas empresas listadas na Bolsa de Valores, Mercadorias e Futuros de São Paulo (BM&FBOVESPA) em 2015. A pesquisa caracteriza-se como descritiva, documental e quantitativa, e sua amostra foi composta por 102 companhias, nas quais foi possível identificar saldo de goodwill resultante de combinação de negócios. Os dados foram coletados das Demonstrações Financeiras Padronizadas (DFPs) e do banco de dados Economática®. Semelhante ao estudo de Vogt et al. (2016), analisou-se quais fatores se relacionam com o reconhecimento das perdas por impairment do goodwill. Foram realizados três testes: (i) regressão linear múltipla para todas as 102 empresas que apresentaram saldo de goodwill em 31 de dezembro de 2015; (ii) regressão linear múltipla apenas para as 18 empresas que reconheceram perdas por impairment de tal ativo em 2015; e (iii) regressão logística binária também para as 102 companhias que apresentaram saldo de goodwill em 31 de dezembro de 2015. O primeiro teste mostrou que as empresas estudadas com menores variações do turnover e as menos rentáveis, bem como as com maiores valores de book-to-market, goodwill reconhecidos em suas DFPs e alavancagem financeira, tendem a registrar maiores perdas por impairment decorrentes da diminuição da expectativa de rentabilidade futura esperada com a realização de combinações de negócios. O segundo teste revelou, novamente, que as entidades menos rentáveis tendem a reconhecer maiores perdas por impairment do goodwill. Já o terceiro, evidenciou, mais uma vez, que as empresas com maiores valores de book-to-market tendem a reconhecer maiores perdas. Constatou-se que, a aplicação que apresentou melhores resultados foi a de regressão linear múltipla para todas as 102 empresas da amostra, pois foi o teste no qual se obteve mais variáveis significativas.
Avaliação da Eficiência Financeira de Entidades Fechadas de Previdência Complementar no Brasil
Authors: Diniz Josedilton Alves , Corrar Luiz João
Published: December 2017

O objetivo dessa pesquisa é medir e avaliar a eficiência e identificar os determinantes das Entidades Fechadas de Previdência Complementar (EFPC) no Brasil. Especificamente, o estudo explorou a relação que: o tamanho, o tipo de patrocínio (privado ou público) e o perfil de investimentos (renda variável, renda fixa ou outros tipos), podem exercer na eficiência sobre a (EFPC). Para cada uma dessas relações foi formulada uma hipótese que foi testada estatisticamente. A pesquisa foi constituída por uma amostra de 92 fundos de pensão referente ao período 2010 a 2013. Num primeiro estágio, mensurou a eficiência dos fundos e foi usada a técnica Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). Num segundo estágio testaram-se, estatisticamente, as variáveis acima mencionadas como explicativas da eficiência. Para os testes de hipóteses foram usados: o teste para amostras independentes de Mann- Whitney U-Test e os coeficientes de correlação de Pearson. Os resultados revelaram que os fundos de pensão maiores apresentaram um nível médio de eficiência significativamente superior aos dos menores. Já os fundos de pensão que são patrocinados pela iniciativa privada foram significativamente superiores aos dos fundos de pensão públicos fato que pode ser explicado pela teoria do agente. Quanto ao perfil de investimentos concluiu-se que as aplicações em fundos de renda fixa apresentam correlação positiva e significativa em relação aos escores de eficiência dos fundos de pensão enquanto que as aplicações em renda variável e outros investimentos não tiveram correlação significativa em relação aos escores de eficiência dos fundos de pensão.
EDUCAÇÃO PARA O RECONHECIMENTO DO OUTRO: UM DESAFIO A PARTIR DE LIMA VAZ
Authors: Tedesco Anderson Luiz , Strieder Roque , Lago Clenio
Published: December 2017

O artigo é uma discussão inspirada nas concepções filosóficas de Henrique Cláudio de Lima Vaz. Trata-se de um estudo de caráter bibliográfico, com o objetivo de constituir uma reflexão ética na educação contemporânea. Diante da fragilização da intersubjetividade, construída no decorrer da modernidade, resultam algumas possibilidades educativas capazes de reconstruir o reencontro entre seres humanos. Conclui-se que o ser humano, ao conviver em comunidade interage no terreno da educação como caminho intersubjetivo de conhecimento de si e de transformação de si na relação de reconhecimento do Eu-Tu ou Eu-Humanidade.

 

Palavras-Chave: Lima Vaz;  Intersubjetividade; Educação
Pulmonary Hypertension Associated With Scleroderma and Connective Tissue Disease: Potential Molecular and Cellular Targets
Authors: Trojanowska Maria
Published: December 2017

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by autoimmunity, small-vessel vasculopathy, and fibrosis causing damage in multiple organ systems. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a serious and often fatal complication of SSc, occurring in patients with the limited (lcSSc) and diffuse (dcSSc) forms of the disease and affecting 8% to 15% of patients.12 While pulmonary hypertension associated with connective tissue disease (CTD-PAH) has similar clinical features as idiopathic PAH, 1-year survival and freedom from hospitalization are lower in CTD-PAH.3 SSc-PAH has the worst 1-year survival rate at 82% compared with other connective tissue diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, mixed connective tissue disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.34 Despite the recent progress in the development of disease-targeted therapies, patients with SSc-PAH have a poorer response to treatment and a worse prognosis than other subgroups of PAH.1 Autoimmunity and prolonged vasculopathy preceding the development of clinical manifestations of SSc-PAH may play a critical role in the poorer outcome of SSc-PAH patients.1 This article will provide an overview of the recent findings related to cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with the development of PAH, with an emphasis on SSc-PAH.
Non-Group 1 Pulmonary Hypertension Associated With Systemic Sclerosis: An Under-studied Patient Population
Authors: Anklesaria Zafia , Saggar Rajeev , Derhovanessian Ariss , Saggar Rajan
Published: December 2017

Background: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a heterogeneous disorder that results in multiorgan dysfunction. The most common pulmonary manifestations are pulmonary hypertension (PH) and interstitial lung disease (ILD). Systemic sclerosis may be complicated by World Health Organization (WHO) Group 1 PH (SSc-PAH), which is the most well-studied subtype. The PH associated with SSc may also be secondary to underlying left heart disease (SSc-PH-LHD) or ILD (SSc-PH-ILD), and these subgroups are classified as WHO Group 2 and Group 3 PH, respectively. These non-WHO Group 1 PH subsets are notoriously under-studied. Available data suggest that the impact of PH-specific therapy in SSc-PH-LHD and SSc-PH-ILD is limited and survival is poor despite attempted treatment.

Implication for clinicians: Most research and clinical trials surrounding PH in SSc have thus far focused on WHO Group 1 SSc-PAH. There are limited data surrounding therapeutic options for WHO Group 2 (SSc-PH-LHD) and Group 3 PH (SSc-PH-ILD) phenotypes. This review aims to summarize and consolidate the data surrounding these 2 distinct clinical phenotypes and to emphasize the available prognostic and treatment considerations.

Conclusions: Given the unique pathophysiology, prognostic implications, and poor response to treatment of WHO Group 2 and 3 SSc-PH phenotypes, there is an overwhelming need for more data to best understand optimal management strategies. The focus should be individual patient-level prognostication, how and when to initiate and manage PH-specific therapy, and appropriate triage with regard to the timing of lung (or heart-lung) transplantation.
Total Intra-Venous Anesthesia for Parathyroid Adenoma in a Child
Authors: Gupta Bhavna , Govil Neelam Prasad , Agarwal Munisha , Saith Vandana
Published: December 2017

Endocrine surgeries present a unique challenge to the attending surgeon and anesthesiologist and parathyroid adenoma is no exception. Parathyroid disorders are rare in children. Most striking disturbance in this disorder is the imbalance of calcium levels in body and main emphasis of management revolves around the same in perioperative period. We are reporting the anesthesia management for parathyroidectomy with total intra-venous anesthesia (TIVA).
In vitro Antioxidant, Antibacterial Activities and HPLC-TOF/MS Analysis of Anvillea radiata (Asteraceae) Extracts
Authors: Benslama Abderrahim , Harrar Abdenassar , Gül Fatih , Demirtaş Ibrahim
Published: December 2017

Background:

Algeria has a particular geographical position with a wide band of very varied vegetation including the aromatic and medicinal plants. These plants are able to produce much diversified natural compounds, which can be very useful health care and treatment of diseases.

Objective:

This study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant capacity and antibacterial activity of Anvillea radiata (Asteraceae) extracts, one of the medicinal plants used as food and in folk medicine in Algeria.

Methods:

The extraction was carried on the aerial part by methanol and water to give Met.E and Aq.E. The ABTS and DPPH free radicals-scavenging tests are used to evaluate the antioxidant activity of extracts. Moreover, the antibacterial activity was evaluated using disc diffusion method. Finally, the extracts were subject to the phytochemical analysis using the HPLC-TOF/MS equipment.

Results:

The Met.E showed the highest amount of total phenolic and flavonoids content (266.12 µg EAG/mg E and 50.83 µg EQ/mg E, respectively). The results of the antioxidant activity revealed that the Met.E showed a good scavenging activity against ABTS and DPPH free radical with EC50=0.067 mg/ml and EC50=0.33 mg/ml, respectively. Moreover, the A. radiata extracts present a highest antibacterial activity against M. luteus NRRL B-4375, B. subtilis NRRL NRS-744 and S. aureus ATCC 25923, with inhibition zone ranging from 18 to 23 mm to Met.E and 12-18 mm to the Aq.E. In addition, the Met.E of A. radiata showed a better MIC against S. aureus, M. luteus and B. subtilis (MIC= 6.25, 25 and 25 µg/ml, respectively). The HPLC-TOF/MS analysis of Met.E reveals the presence of two major compounds, rutin and fumaric acid, when Aq.E contains the syringic acid as a major compound.

Conclusion:

The data of our study reported that the Met.E extract of A. radiata had a considerable antioxidant capacity and antibacterial effect, which may be due to their richness by phenolic compounds such as rutin and fumaric acid.
Influence of Fineness of Recycled Glass Waste and Slag on Compressive Strength of Sulphate Resisting Cement Mortars
Authors: Amin Muhammad Nasir
Published: December 2017

Background:

Cement and concrete industry is responsible for 5% of the worldwide man-made CO2 emission to environment. Therefore, the demands of producing low carbon concrete is increasing every day for climate change mitigation and adaptations.

Objective:

To minimize the amount of clinker production and associated CO2 emission, the potential use of recycled ground glass waste (GGW) and electric arc furnace slag (EAFS) as a substitute of cement was evaluated through compressive strength tests on mortars and by calculating their strength activity index (SAI) values.

Method:

At first, two optimized fineness levels were attained for both cement substituting materials used in this study (GGW as glass fine ˂ 38µm (GF), glass superfine ˂ 25µm (GSF) and EAFS as slag fine ˂ 75µm (SF), slag superfine ˂ 32µm (SSF)). In addition to control mortar (CM), four types of binary mortar mixtures were cast by substituting cement 5-20% with GGW (GF and GSF) and 10-30% with EAFS (SF and SSF). ASTM C109 and C311 were employed to perform compressive strength tests and to calculate the SAI values, respectively.

Results:

The results demonstrated that the strength of mortar increased with increasing fineness of both the cement substitute materials. More specifically, the compressive strength of mortar containing GSF matched with those of CM at 5% substitution and comparable for its other substitutions (10, 15, and 20%) at age of one-year. Similar results were noticed for SSF at its 10% substitution where it produced the best comparable results to CM. However, the strength of mortars containing SF or 30% SSF was significantly reduced as compared to CM.

Conclusion:

Almost all the mortars containing GGW or EAFS have satisfied the strength activity criteria of ASTM C989 Grade 80 of blast furnace slag, except those containing 20 and 30% of SF. Moreover, the mortars containing GSF and SSF matched BFS of Grade 100 corresponding to their 5 and 10% substitutions, respectively.
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN RELATION TO METACOGNITION AND PROBLEM SOLVING ABILITY AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS
Authors: Kaur Surinder , Kaur Rajbir
Published: December 2017

The study investigated the academic achievement in relation to metacognition and problem solving ability among secondary school students. The sample constituted of 200 students studying in XI grade both boys and girls adolescents belonging to science stream from CBSE as well as PSEB of Amritsar District were randomly selected. The metacognition (Meta-cognition inventory by Govil, 2011) and problem solving ability (Problem solving ability test by Dubey, 2011) tests were used for collecting the data. The findings of the study revealed that there exists no significant difference in metacognition and problem solving ability among girls and boys of CBSE and PSEB school students belonging to medical stream .But there exists significant difference in problem solving ability among students of CBSE and PSEB schools belonging to medical stream. There exists no relationship among metacognition, problem solving ability and achievement of secondary school students belonging to medical stream. However no significant interaction effect of metacognition and problem solving ability on achievement of secondary school students belonging to medical stream was found.
Multistakeholder Perspectives on Maternal Text Messaging Intervention in Uganda: Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ilozumba Onaedo , Dieleman Marjolein , Van Belle Sara , Mukuru Moses , Bardají Azucena , Broerse Jacqueline EW
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Despite continued interest in the use of mobile health for improving maternal health outcomes, there have been limited attempts to identify relevant program theories.

OBJECTIVES

This study had two aims: first, to explicate the assumptions of program designers, which we call the program theory and second, to contrast this program theory with empirical data to gain a better understanding of mechanisms, facilitators, and barriers related to the program outcomes.

METHODS

To achieve the aforementioned objectives, we conducted a retrospective qualitative study of a text messaging (short message service) platform geared at improving individual maternal health outcomes in Uganda. Through interviews with program designers (n=3), we elicited 3 main designers’ assumptions and explored these against data from qualitative interviews with primary beneficiaries (n=26; 15 women and 11 men) and health service providers (n=6), as well as 6 focus group discussions with village health team members (n=50) who were all involved in the program.

RESULTS

Our study results highlighted that while the program designers’ assumptions were appropriate, additional mechanisms and contextual factors, such as the importance of incentives for village health team members, mobile phone ownership, and health system factors should have been considered.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that text messages could be an effective part of a more comprehensive maternal health program when context and system barriers are identified and addressed in the program theories.
Knowledge and Determinants of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption among Adults in Hohoe Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Awuni Thomas K. , Kye-Duodu Gideon , Duodu Charles , Zotor Francis B. , Ellahi Basma
Published: December 2017

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that a person consumes at least 400g of Fruit and Vegetable (FV) daily to prevent chronic disease risk. We assessed knowledge of current WHO guidelines and other determinants of FV intake among adults (? 18 years, n = 397) in Hohoe Municipality, Ghana. Face-to-face interviews using a questionnaire adopted from WHO Risk Factor Surveillance System were undertaken. Knowledge of FV daily servings and determinants of intake were evaluated by descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. There was a 99.2% response rate with approximately 9% of participants correctly stating the WHO daily recommended amount (P = .296). Most (54%) of respondents’ FV intake was affected by unavailability of desired choice (P = .050). Odds of inadequate consumption for persons aware of adequate intake amount was 1.97 (95% CI: 0.64, 6.05, P = .234) higher than persons without awareness. Participants with problems accessing their desired choice of FV had 0.59 odds (95% CI: 0.36, 0.95, P = .030) of consuming inadequate amount compared to those with easy access. Adequate FV intake depends on availability of consumer prefered choice regardless of knowledge of recommendations. Individual home based FV cultivation is relevant for availability of preferred choice and adequate consumption for NCDs risk reductions among Ghanaians.
The Differences of Realization Ability between Students’ Learning Model Problem Based Discovery Learning Model in Smk Private Laksamana Martadinata Medan
Authors: - Lilis , - Togi
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine differences in overall mathematical
reasoning abilities and based on indicators among students who received problem
based learning with students who obtained discovery learning based on early math
skills. This study was a quasi experimental research, with the study population was
all students of class XI SMK Laksamana Martadinata consisting of twenty classes.
By purposive sampling, two classes were chosen, with experimental class 1were
given problem-based learning treatment and experiment class 2 were given
discovery learning treatment. The instrument of mathematical reasoning ability, the
ability of early mathematics and observation sheet were stated to have fulfilled the
validity requirements of the contents, and the reliability coefficients of 0.740 and
0.830 respectively. Data analysis of mathematical reasoning ability was done by
analysis of covariance (ANAKOVA). The results showed that there were significant
differences in mathematical reasoning ability both overall and per indicator between
students who were given problem-based learning with students who were given
discovery learning, with problem-based learning showed better results. The results
suggest that problem-based learning is an alternative to improving the ability of
mathematical reasoning.
Critical Thinking in Science: What Are the Basics?
Authors: Shaughnessy Michael F. , Varela Manuel , Liu Zhiming
Published: December 2017

This paper reviews some of the most critical issues in science in terms of scientific thinking, and reasoning. Many students arrive at college poorly prepared to function in the typical science class and encounter a good deal of difficulty. This paper provides some general information regarding critical thinking skills and delves into some specific realms that need investigation and formative evaluation.
GENETIC DISORDER ALZHEIMER
Authors: Rani Pratibha , Singh Kamaldeep , Arjuna Anania , Devi Savita
Published: December 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), slowly continuous neurological disorder, mostly appears in older >65 age that deals with the memory loss due to death or damage of brain cells and cognitive functions (thinking, reasoning, and behavior abnormalities) due to the accumulation of the specific protein (beta-amyloid protein) which form plaque and fibers (tau tangles) in the brain. Not only the genetic factors are responsible but also most of the non-genetic factors are responsible for AD. Several mutations in the gene (APP, APOE, PENS1, PENS2 on chromosome no. 21, 19, 14, 1) are responsible for causing four types of AD. Memory loss is most common sign of AD. Predisposing factors of AD are hereditary, severe brain injury or traumatic, and metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, hypercholesteremia, and obesity. Although treatment can manage some symptoms in few people, but there is no current mechanism to cure AD or stop its progression. Beta-secretase inhibitor molecule prevents the first step in a chain accumulation which leads to the formation of amyloid plaque in the brain. However, the scientist or researchers have established a compound NIC5-15 they have been found NIC5-15 has safe and effectual treatment which has been used to stabilize cognitive performance in patients with mild to moderate AD.
MOLECULAR DOCKING, MOLECULAR DYNAMICS, AND IN SILICO TOXICITY PREDICTION STUDIES OF COUMARIN, N-OXALYLGLYCINE, ORGANOSELENIUM, ORGANOSULFUR, AND PYRIDINE DERIVATIVES AS HISTONE LYSINE DEMETHYLASE INHIBITORS
Authors: Muttaqin Fauzan Zein , Fakih Taufik Muhammad , Muhammad Hubbi Nashrullah
Published: December 2017

Objective: Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men. One of the efforts in the treatment of prostate cancer is by inhibiting histone lysine demethylase. Derivative compounds of coumarine, N-oxalylglycine, organoselenium, organosulfur, and pyridine have been reported to be active against two types of histone lysine demethylase (KDM) enzymes, KDM4E and KDM5B. This study aims to study the interactions of these derivatives with KDM.Methods: In this study, we performed computational studies, including molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MDs) simulations, and toxicity prediction, to assess the compounds’ activities toward three other KDM enzymes, KDM1A, KDM4A, and KDM4C.Results: Molecular docking simulations showed that a derivative compound of N-oxalylglycine, (R)-3-(4-[benzyloxy]phenyl)-2-(carboxyformamido) propanoic acid, and a derivative compound of pyridine, 3-(4-methoxybenzylamino)pyridine-2,4-dicarboxylic acid, has the highest affinity toward KDM. These results were confirmed in MDs studies which showed strong interactions at the active site of the five receptors. Toxicity prediction results show that the derivative compounds of coumarine, N-oxalylglycine, organoselenium, organosulfur, and pyridine are classified in category (high class), which suggests that the safety is not guaranteed, but is likely, not carcinogenic and nongenotoxic.Conclusion: Several coumarin, N-oxalylglycine, organoselenium, organosulfur, and pyridine derivative compounds are predicted to be able to interact strongly with KDM. The results in this study are useful for further studies in the development of novel anticancer drugs that target KDM.
AUTOMATIC FEATURE EXTRACTION FOR BREAST DENSITY SEGMENTATION AND CLASSIFICATION
Authors: Cherian Aswathy K , E Poovammal , C Malathy
Published: December 2017

Objective: Cancer is the uncontrollable multiplication of cells in human body. The expansion of cancerous cells in the breast area of the women is identified as breast cancer. It is mostly identified among women aged above 40. With the current advancement in the medical field, various automatic tests are available for the identification of cancerous tissues. The cancerous cells are spotted by taking the photo imprint in the form of X-ray comprising the breast area of the woman. Such images are called mammograms. Segmentation of mammograms is the primary step toward diagnosis. It involves the pre-processing of the image to identify the region of interest (ROI). Later, features are extracted from the image which involves the learned features that may be statistical and textural features [7]. When these features are used as input to the simple classifier, it helps us to predict the risk of cancer. The support vector machine (SVM) classifier was proved to produce a better accuracy percentage with the features extracted.Methods: The mammograms are subjected to a pre-processing stage, where the images are processed to identify the ROI. Next, the features are extracted from these images to identify the statistical [9] and textural features. Finally, these features are used as input to the simple classifier, it helps us to predict the risk of cancer.Results: The SVM classifier was proved to produce the maximum accuracy of about 88.67% considering 13 features including both statistical and textural features. The features taken for the study are mean, inverse difference moment, energy, entropy, root mean square, correlation, homogeneity, variance, skewness, range, contrast, kurtosis, and smoothness.Conclusion: Computer-aided diagnosis is one of the most common methods of detection of cancer with mammograms, and it involves minor human intervention. The dataset of mammograms was analyzed and found that SVM provided the highest accuracy of 88.67%. A wide range of the study is progressing in the field of cancer as this disease causes a high threat of human life in this era.
VIRTUAL SCREENING, PHARMACOPHORE MODELING, AND QUANTITATIVE STRUCTURE ACTIVITY RELATIONSHIP STUDIES ON HISTAMINE 4 RECEPTOR
Authors: Sugumar Shobana
Published: December 2017

Objective: To find out novel inhibitors for histamine 4 receptor (H4R), the target for various allergic and inflammatory pathophysiological conditions.Methods: Homology modeling of H4R was performed using easy modeler and validated using structure analysis and verification server, and with the modeled structure, virtual screening, pharmacophore modeling, and quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) studies were performed using the Schrodinger 9.3 software.Results: Among all the synthetic and natural ligands, hesperidin, vitexin, and diosmin were found to have the highest dock score, and with that, a five-point pharmacophore model was developed consisting of two hydrogen bond acceptor and three ring atoms, and the pharmacophore hypothesis yielded a statistically significant three-dimensional QSAR (3D-QSAR) model with a correlation coefficient of r2=0.8962 as well as good predictive power.Conclusion: The pharmacophore-based 3D-QSAR model generated from natural antihistamines can provide intricate structural knowledge about a new class of anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory drug research.
ANTI-ATHEROSCLEROTIC ACTIVITY OF ELAEOCARPUS GANITRUS ROXB. IN CHOLESTEROL-FED RABBITS
Authors: Jain Pratibha Kumari , Sharma Priyanka , Joshi Suresh C
Published: December 2017

Objectives: Atherosclerosis was experimentally induced in New Zealand white male rabbits by cholesterol feeding for 120 days for investigating effects of 70% ethanolic Elaeocarpus ganitrus seed extract (EEGS) against atherosclerosis.Methods: Anti-atherosclerotic activity of E. ganitrus extract was evaluated at a dose level of 250 and 500 mg/kg of body weight (p.o). On 121st day, the animals were sacrificed to collect the aorta for determining tissue lipid profile, antioxidant parameters, and histopathological changes. One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s multiple comparison test was used for the statistical analysis.Results: Aorta of cholesterol-fed rabbits for 120 days showed marked elevation in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids. EEGS extract treatment significantly (p≤0.01, ≤0.001) corrected disturbed lipid profile in cholesterol-fed rabbits in a dose-dependent manner during the 60 days of the treatment period. A significant reduction in lipid peroxidation and a considerable raise in glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase levels (p≤0.01, ≤0.001) were accompanied by post-treatment with EEGS extract to cholesterol-fed rabbits. The histopathological modifications such as accumulation of foam cells, atheromatous plaque formation, and lumen size reduction supported the successful induction of atherosclerosis in rabbits. The treated rabbits showed significant protective effect by lowering the deposition of cholesterol and increasing the lumen size compared to cholesterol-fed group.Conclusions: Phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, triterpenoids, and carbohydrates in the ethanolic extract may be attributed to effective anti-atherosclerotic and antioxidant activity of plant extract. Our study exhibited that EEGS extract could be a potent herbal therapeutic agent for the treatment of atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia-related diseases.
COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF VACHADI AND HINGWADI GHTRITA IN PATIENTS OF DEPRESSION
Authors: Madhuri Pawar , Asmita Wele
Published: December 2017

Objective: Present exploratory clinical study dealt with comparative assessment of therapeutic effect of medicated ghee formulations i.e. Vachadi [VG] and Hingwadi Ghrita [HG] in patients of mild to moderate depression.Methods: Open label nonrandomized standard controlled clinical trial was carried out. Using Hamilton scale test total twelve patients of mild to moderate depression were grouped in two groups[A and B]. Patients of group A and group B received HG and VG along with standard antidepressants respectively for sixty days. Pre, mid and post HAMD scores of both group patients were recorded and compared. Data was analyzed with Friedman and Mann Whitney statistical test.Results: Statistical analysis showed a significant gradual change in HAMD values for both study groups after sixty days of treatment [P< 0.05]. However, when pre and post HAMD scores of both groups are statistically analyzed, Hingwadi Ghrita demonstrated significant positive result in reduction of HAMD scores compared to Vachadi Ghrita [P=0.003]. Beneficial effects on patients appetite, bowel movement was seen for both group patients.Conclusion: Thus it is concluded that along with antidepressants Hingwadi Ghrita would be the better choice as an adjuvant drug than Vachadi Ghrita for mild to moderate depression patients. More studies with larger number should be done to validate this result.
A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON GERIATRIC PRESCRIBING PATTERN AND MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: M Seema Anjum , Jacob Chinchu , Jacob Chinchu , Benchamin Akhil , Benchamin Akhil , Rodrigues Prudence A , Rodrigues Prudence A
Published: December 2017

Objectives: To identify potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) using Beers criteria 2015 and to recommend safer alternative medication for the above. To assess the medication adherence in geriatric patients and to categorize according to their adherence.Methods: This is prospective, interventional study. A total of 90 patients aged 65 years and above were involved in the study. Data were collected and recorded. The prescriptions were analyzed for appropriateness using updated Beers criteria 2015 and assess medication adherence using 8-item Morisky questionnaire.Results: Majority of the patients were in the age group of 65-74 years. Males (53%) showed predominance than females. The highest rate of (53%) polypharmacy was found in general medicine department than other departments. Out of 147 disease conditions observed, chronic renal failure (21.1%) was the most common condition. A total of 66 patients had comorbid conditions. Most frequently prescribed medications belonged to cardiovascular drugs (56; 14.62%). A total of 46 patients received PIMs; majority belonged to Category 1 - amitriptyline. Commonly prescribed medication in PIMs belonged to central nervous system medications (20%). Majority of patients were low adherent (51.11%) in which female patients showed preponderance in low adherence.Conclusion: Study showed prevalence of disease pattern, medication use, polypharmacy, PIMs, and medication adherence. It is important for pharmacists to stay updated and prescribers need to be educated and encouraged about Beers criteria for rational prescription for better pharmaceutical care and increased medication adherence.
SUPPLEMENTATION WITH 2:1 RATIO OF N-6:N-3 POLYUNSATURATED FATTY ACID IMPROVES LIVER STEATOSIS AND SERUM CYTOKINE LEVELS IN YOUNG OBESE BALINESE WOMEN: A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL
Authors: Weta I Wayan , Gb Mahadewa Tjokorda , Sutirtayasa Wayan P , Subawa Anak Agung Ngurah , Malik Safarina G , Widyadharma I Putu Eka
Published: December 2017

Objectives: In addition to the rise in obesity prevalence globally, morbidity due to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is increasing. Primary modalities for preventing and managing this problem include dietary modification and improved physical activities. A daily diet with a low n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio is suspected to contribute to ameliorating liver steatosis (LS). The present study was conducted to elucidate the effects of an n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio of 2:1 in alleviating LS.Methods: Twenty-four young obese women with LS were recruited from Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia. They were randomly allocated to an intervention or control group. Both groups were given linoleic acid:α-linolenic acid at ratios of 2035:970 and 240:100 g, respectively, for 12 weeks. Baseline and end-line data were obtained. All patients were advised to maintain their daily energy intake no more than 1500 kcal and to perform structured physical exercises once a week.Results: The intervention significantly decreased the body fat (body mass index, p=0.040; triglyceride, p=0.008) and serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels (p=0.002) and increased serum interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels (p=0.004). The severity of LS was reduced through the intervention (odds ratio=0.064; 95% confidence interval=0.013-0.310; p=0.001).Conclusion: An increased intake of 2:1 n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio alleviated LS, decreased body fat composition and serum TNF-α levels, and increased serum IL-10 levels.
EVALUATION OF RESPONSE TO ANTIHYPERTENSIVE’S IN PREECLAMPSIA AND GESTATIONAL HYPERTENSION CASES WITH DIFFERENT ACE GENE INSERTION/DELETION GENOTYPES
Authors: Ishaq Mohd , Afreen Arshiya , Ali Fatma , Aziz Juhi , Makeen Nida , Fathima Nusrath , Padmaja P , Mohiuddin Mohd
Published: December 2017

Objective: The objective of this research study was to investigate if there exists a relationship between angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) genes insertion/deletion (I/D) genotypes and the antihypertensive treatment being received by preeclampsia (PE) and gestational hypertension (GH) patients.Methods: A total of 50 PE and 35 GH cases were included. ACE gene I/D genotyping was carried out on the blood samples of cases and correlated with the antihypertensive treatment being received by these patients. Details of antihypertensives being received by them were nifedipine (a calcium channel blocker 10 mg) and methyldopa (an alpha 2 receptor agonist 250 mg) which is considered as the first-line of treatment. 30 normotensive pregnant women of comparable gestational period served as controls.Results: It was observed that a combination of calcium channel blocker (nifedipine 10 mg), as well as alpha 2 agonist (methyldopa 250 mg), was required in patients with D’ allele containing genotypes. However, PE and GH patients with II genotype as well as those of GH patients responded well to either nifedipine or methyldopa. If confirmed these results appear to be of clinical significance as prior knowledge of ACE I/D genotypes will be useful in the management of PE cases in general and severe PE cases in particular.Conclusion: Prior knowledge of ACE I/D genotypes appears to be helpful in the management of PE and GH cases.