bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hepatitis-C and it’s seroconversion in end stage kidney disease patients on maintenance hemodialysis and factors affecting it
Authors: Hussain Yasir , Shahzad Anjum , Azam Sidra , Munawar Nazish 
Published: January 2019

Objective: To determine frequency of hepatitis-C in dialysis patients at start of hemodialysis, seroconversion from HCV negative to HCV positive over study duration and factors affecting seroconversion.
Methods: This descriptive prospective observational study done in dialysis center of DHQ hospital Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan. The study was conducted from October 2016 to October 2017. Data was collected on Performa and later followed prospectively in same cohort of patients. All the patients on maintenance hemodialysis for more than one month were included in the study. Patients with acute kidney disease and on dialysis less than one month were excluded. Patients were analyzed by dividing them in three groups, group-I patients who were HCV positive at start of dialysis, Group-II who were negative and seroconvert to HCV positive, Group-III who were negative and remained negative. All seronegative patients were followed at one, three, six and twelfth months on being hemodialysis for seroconversion.
Results: Out of 230 surveyed patients 52 were HCV positive at start of dialysis and 19 were loss of follow up. Out of remaining 159 HCV negative patients 95 became HCV positive, only 64 patients remained HCV negative by end of study.
Conclusion: Frequency of HCV seroconversion among chronic hemodialysis patient is found to be 53.37%. Arteriovenous access, number of dialysis, reuse of dialyzer and blood transfusions are important risk factors.
How to cite this:Hussain Y, Shahzad A, Azam S, Munawar N. Hepatitis-C and it’s seroconversion in end stage kidney disease patients on maintenance hemodialysis and factors affecting it. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(1):66-70. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.1.366
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Density artefacts at interfaces caused by multiple time-step effects in molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Sidler Dominik , Lehner Marc , Frasch Simon , Cristófol-Clough Michael , Riniker Sereina 
Published: January 2019

Background: Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have become an important tool to provide insight into molecular processes involving biomolecules such as proteins, DNA, carbohydrates and membranes. As these processes cover a wide range of time scales, multiple time-step integration methods are often employed to increase the speed of MD simulations. For example, in the twin-range (TR) scheme, the nonbonded forces within the long-range cutoff are split into a short-range contribution updated every time step (inner time step) and a less frequently updated mid-range contribution (outer time step). The presence of different time steps can, however, cause numerical artefacts.Methods: The effects of multiple time-step algorithms at interfaces between polar and apolar media are investigated with MD simulations. Such interfaces occur with biological membranes or proteins in solution.Results: In this work, it is shown that the TR splitting of the nonbonded forces leads to artificial density increases at interfaces for weak coupling and Nosé-Hoover (chain) thermostats. It is further shown that integration with an impulse-wise reversible reference system propagation algorithm (RESPA) only shifts the occurrence of density artefacts towards larger outer time steps. Using a single-range (SR) treatment of the nonbonded interactions or a stochastic dynamics thermostat, on the other hand, resolves the density issue for pairlist-update periods of up to 40 fs.Conclusion: TR schemes are not advisable to use in combination with weak coupling or Nosé-Hoover (chain) thermostats due to the occurrence of significant numerical artifacts at interfaces.
Anti-infective potential of hydroalcoholic extract of Punica granatum peel against gram-negative bacterial pathogens
Authors: Joshi Chinmayi , Patel Pooja , Kothari Vijay 
Published: January 2019

Background: Punica granatum extracts have been prescribed in traditional medicine for management of a variety of disease conditions including microbial infections. Generation of scientific evidence for validation of P. granatum peel extract’s anti-pathogenic efficacy is required. Methods: Hydroalcoholic extract of P. granatum peel (PGPE), prepared by microwave assisted extraction method was evaluated for its quorum-modulatory potential against two different human-pathogenic bacteria viz. Chromobacterium violaceum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Results: This extract was able to modulate in vitro production of quorum sensing-regulated pigments in both these test bacteria at ≥5 μg/ml. Virulence traits of P. aeruginosa like haemolytic activity, and biofilm formation were negatively affected by the test extract, and it also made P. aeruginosa more susceptible to lysis by human serum. Antibiotic susceptibility of both test bacteria was modulated owing to pre-treatment with PGPE. Exposure of these test pathogens to PGPE (≥0.5 μg/ml) effectively reduced their virulence towards the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Repeated subculturing of P. aeruginosa on PGPE-supplemented growth medium did not induce resistance to PGPE in this notorious pathogen, and this extract was also found to exert a post-extract effect on P. aeruginosa. Individual constituent phytocompounds of PGPE were found to be less efficacious than the whole extract. PGPE seemed to interfere with the signal-response machinery of P. aeruginosa and C. violaceum. PGPE also exhibited notable prebiotic potential by promoting growth of probiotic strains- Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus plantarum at ≤50 μg/ml. Conclusions: This study indicates PGPE to be an effective antipathogenic and prebiotic preparation, and validates its therapeutic use mentioned in traditional medicine. This study also emphasizes the need for testing any bioactive extract at broadest possible concentration range, particularly in vivo, so that an accurate picture of dose-response relationship can emerge.
Contract Design for the Stockist in Indian Distribution Networks
Authors: Iyer Ananth , Palsule-Desai Omkar 
Published: January 2019

Problem definition: Stockists are the entity in the supply chain who deliver to the millions of small shops that account for over 90% of retail sales in India. The stockist purchases product from the manufacturer, develops retailer interest in carrying the product, solves the logistics problem of delivery to retailers, and manages retail credit and money collection. In return, the stockist is provided assistance by the manufacturer and paid an associated margin that is a percent of the product’s retail price. We observed relatively low distribution margins offered to the stockists in India that was a surprise given infrastructure and financing challenges. We noted that the low margins are enabled by the efficiency in product delivery and demand stimulation induced by the stockist. In this paper, we focus on the analysis of screening contracts offered by manufacturers to stockists. Methodology: We use a principal–agent model structure and model the routing cost, inventory cost, and demand impact of the stockist’s capability. We then use a substitutes or complements relationship between manufacturer assistance and stockist impact to understand the optimal contract structure—i.e., level of assistance and associated retail margin. We describe the economics associated with the stockist, provide data regarding the margins and assistance provided by the manufacturer, and use the model to understand their use in developing an effective supply chain. Results: Our model uses three parameters to show that a manufacture can adjust the level of spatial retailer intensity and thus the impact of the stockist in generating demand, the fraction of high-performing stockists associated with the manufacturer and the nature of the relationship between assistance provided and its impact on the stockist’s performance (i.e., complements or substitutes relationship), to attain superior performance. Academic/practical relevance: We parameterize data from Indian firms in the consumer goods industry to understand the observed assistance provided by the manufacturer to the stockist, and associated margins. We then use our model to understand actions taken by a manufacturer in the Indian market. Managerial implications: Our analysis provides a framework for manufacturers to design screening contracts for stockists who play a vital role in managing the fragmented retail markets in developing countries. The online supplement is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2018.0722 . This paper has been accepted for the Manufacturing & Service Operations Management Special Issue on Value Chain Innovations in Developing Economies.
Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia: Biological and biomechanical considerations to achieve union and prevent refracture
Authors: Paley D. 
Published: January 2019

Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is likely to be a primary periosteal disease and secondary bone disease. The primary goal of treatment is to obtain union, correct the diaphyseal deformity, correct any proximal fibular migration and prevent refracture. The pathobiology demonstrates increased osteoclasis by the surrounding fibrous hamartoma and reduced osteogenesis and bone morphogenic protein production by the bone. This leads to a loss of remodelling potential and gradual bowing and atrophy of the bone with eventual fracture of the tibia and or fibula. This recommends the synergistic use of bisphosphonates and bone morphogenic protein. The pathomechanics of CPT implicate the anterolateral bowing, narrow diameter of the atrophic bone ends and proximal fibular migration. These biomechanical factors can be addressed by means of straightening of the deformity, intramedullary support of both bones, stable fixation and reduction of proximal migration of the fibula. A summary of the literature on CPT shows that the mean probability of achieving primary union without refracture, by most treatments is 50% (12% to 80%). Two recent studies have shown a much higher success rate approaching 100%, by creating a cross-union between the tibia and fibula. The cross-union with intramedullary reinforcement of the bone makes refracture unlikely due to the cross-sectional area of union with its two-bar linkage. A new classification to guide such treatment is also proposed. Level of Evidence V – expert opinion
Antihypertensive and anticoagulant properties of glycosaminoglycans extracted from the sturgeon (Acipenser persicus) cartilage
Authors: Karimzadeh Katayoon 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
Large amounts of valuable waste are produced during sea food processing. This has a great potential for conversion to biologically active proteins and polysaccharides. Among these compounds, sulfated polysaccharides have been considered due to their many biological properties.
The present work was conducted to study anticoagulant activities and angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory effects of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) extracted from the cartilage of sturgeon (Acipenser persicus). The enzymatic extraction of sturgeon cartilage was performed in the presence of cetylpyridinium chloride salt. The structure was characterized via electron microscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. Herein, ACE inhibitory and anticoagulant properties of extracted GAGs were determined.
The amount of GAGs was 6.8±1.3% of cartilage dry weight. GAGs showed good activity in ACE inhibitory – with a highest level of 85.7%. The derived anticoagulant activity indexes, APPT (activated partial thromboplastin time) and TT (Thrombin time) of the extracted polysaccharide showed a prolonging of clotting time, compare to control.
The results of this study revealed that the cartilage extracted GAGs possess promising ACE inhibitory properties and anticoagulant effects. Thus, the product can be substituted for blood reducing drugs and antithrombotic agents at least in laboratory conditions.
Upper respiratory tract microbiota in health and disease – a minireview
Authors: Chwiejczak Edyta , Kosikowska Urszula 
Published: January 2019

AbstractA most common infection is that the upper respiratory tract. The human body is inhabited by millions of microorganisms, most of which enable the proper functioning of some systems and constitute a barrier protecting against harmful external factors. Due to the continuous contact of the upper airway microbiota with the external environment, it may seem to be extremely unstable and very diverse. A number of studies have been conducted that have assessed the effect of various factors on the composition of the upper respiratory tract microbiota. This paper presents a literature analysis which showed that the anatomical area is rich in terms of the microbiota that forms it, and despite the constant changes in many parameters, including physical – very stable.
Developing a diagnostic test to identify the selected mutation within the CFTR gene that determines the onset of cystic fibrosis
Authors: Szymczak Angelika , Ksiazek Piotr , Mojsym-Korybska Sylwia , Skorupa Wojciech , Zbikowska-Machul Albertyna 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common genetic diseases among Caucasians due to its prevalence. Modern methods of molecular diagnostics and treatment of the disease allow to prolong the life of patients. In order to apply the appropriate treatment, the genetic basis of this disease should, however, first be known. The most common and the most severe mutation present in the CFTR gene (60-70% of cases) takes the form of an allele. This is responsible for the deletion of phenylalanine in position 508 (Δ508) of the CFTR protein. Determination of mutations in the CFTR gene using molecular techniques makes it possible to identify the causes of the disease in people who do not show the characteristic symptoms of cystic fibrosis.
In vitro propagated Mentha rotundifolia (L.) Huds and antioxidant activity of its essential oil
Authors: Benahmed Amira , Harfi Boualem , Benbelkacem Ibtissem , Daas Abla , Laouer Hocine , Belkhiri Abdelmalik 
Published: January 2019

Abstract

Mentha rotundifolia (L.) Huds is an aromatic plant used for its medicinal values. This study aims to select appropriate conditions for in vitro propagation of M. rotundifolia (L.) Huds and to evaluate yield and antioxidants activity of its essential oils (EOs).
The explants were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing different concentrations of growth regulators 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and Gibberellin (GA3).
Hydrodistillated EOs obtained from acclimatized and mother plant, were evaluated for their antioxidant activity. Tests were performed on DPPH free radical-scavenging, ABTS and CUPRAC assays.
Shoot induction and multiplication were successfully carried out on MS medium supplemented with the following hormones combinations: 1 mg/l BAP, 1 mg/l GA3 and 0.5 mg/l BAP, 0.5 mg/l GA3, respectively. Stem length, nodes and leaves number measured from development vitroplant were 6.89 cm, 5.22 nodes and 11.92 leaves per vitroplant, respectively.

In vitro rooted plants were successfully acclimatized at a temperature of 23 ± 2°C and a long day photoperiod with a total survival rate exceeding 95%.
EO yield of acclimated plant varied between (0.88-1.49 ml/100 g dry matter) compared to wild plant (0.73 ml/100 g dry matter). The antioxidant potential of EOs from acclimated plant showed on DPPH free radical-scavenging, ABTS and CUPRAC assays values of (IC50: 4.18-24.93 mg/ml), (IC50: 0.51-1.56 mg/ml) and (A0.50: 0.34-2.71 mg/ml), respectively. In contrast, the wild plant exhibited on the same tests the values of (IC50: 10.35 mg/ml), (IC50: 0.12 mg/ml) and (A0.50: 0.99 mg/ml), respectively.
The results suggest that micropropagation of M. rotundifolia (L.) Huds can be an interesting alternative for producing important plant material with the possibility to modulate EO yield and its antioxidant potential for future commercial purposes.
Yes, Creativity Can Predict Academic Success!
Authors: Sternberg Robert J. 
Published: January 2019

AbstractTests of creativity can meaningfully predict academic and other outcomes in schooling, over and above the prediction provided by standardized tests. However, for such prediction to occur, the tests must measure creativity in a meaningful way and success in school must in some way be linked to creative performance. We should change our tests and schooling to require the creativity that is so important for a world in which rapid change is the norm rather than the exception.
Evaluation of Spatial and Temporal Variations of Surface Water Quality in the Nile River Damietta Branch
Authors: El-Tohamy Wael S. , ABDEL-Baki Samar N. , Abdel-Aziz Nagwa E. , Khidr Abdel-Aziz A. 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
The objective of this study is to reveal the spatial and temporal variations of surface water quality in this part of the River Nile with respect to heavy metals pioneerution. Seventeen parameters in total were monitored at seven sites on a monthly basis from October 2013 to September 2014. The dataset was treated using the tools of univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. Cluster analysis showed three different groups of similarity between the sampling sites reflecting the variability in physicochemical characteristics and pollution levels of the study area. Six PCs factors were identified as responsible for the data structure explaining 91 % of the total variance. These were eutrophication factor (23.2 %), physicochemical factor (20.6 %), nutrients (16.3 %) and three additional factors, affected by alkalinity and heavy metals, recorded variance less than 15 % each. Also, the heavy metals pollution index (HPI) revealed that most of the calculated values were below the critical index limit of 100. However, two higher values (124.89 and 133.11) were calculated at sites V and VI during summer due to the temperature and increased run-off in the river system.
Soybean Seedlings Enriched with Iron and Magnesium - Impact on Germination, Growth and Antioxidant Properties
Authors: Chmielowska-Bąk Jagna , Zinicovscaia Inga , Frontasyeva Marina , Milczarek Aleksandra , Micheli Sabrina , Vysochanska Mariia , Deckert Joanna 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
Iron (Fe) and magnesium (Mg) deficiency in human diets is a widespread problem observed in various regions of the world. Insufficient Fe uptake results in the development of iron dependent anaemia and depressed physical and intellectual performance. In turn Mg deficiency is associated with alterations in neuromuscular and cardiovascular systems. An emerging alternative to traditional supplementation of these elements in the form of pills, liquids or effervescent tablets, is introduction of fortified food products. In present study we show that preincubation of soybean seeds in Fe and Mg solutions leads to elevated content of these elements in the seedlings. Importantly the pretreatment did not affect germination rate, seedlings growth or, with an exception of Fe supplementation at highest concentration, antioxidant capacity. The obtained results indicate that preincubation of seeds in Fe and Mg solutions may be a promising method of obtaining enriched soybean sprouts.
Security validation of VP-based SoCs using dynamic information flow tracking
Authors: Goli Mehran , Hassan Muhammad , Große Daniel , Drechsler Rolf 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
Modern System-on-Chips (SoCs) are notoriously insecure. Hence, the fundamental security feature of IP isolation is heavily used, e. g., secured Memory Mapped IOs (MMIOs), or secured address ranges in case of memories, are marked as non-accessible. One way to provide strong assurance of security is to define isolation as information flow policy in hardware using the notion of non-interference. Since, an insecure hardware opens up the door for attacks across the entire system stack (from software down to hardware), the security validation process should start as early as possible in the SoC design cycle, i. e. at Electronic System Level (ESL). Hence, in this paper we propose the first dynamic information flow analysis at ESL. Our approach allows to validate the run-time behavior of a given SoC implemented using Virtual Prototypes (VPs) against security threat models, such as information leakage (confidentiality) and unauthorized access to data in a memory (integrity). Experiments show the applicability and efficacy of the proposed method on various VPs including a real-world system.
Multi-level encryption algorithm for user-related information across social networks
Authors: Yin Lijie , Hassan Nasruddin 
Published: January 2019

AbstractThe traditional RSA information encryption algorithm uses one-dimensional chaotic equations to generate pseudo-random sequences that meet the encryption requirements. This encryption method is too simple and the security performance is poor. A multi-level encryption algorithm for user-related information across social networks is proposed, and a user association model across social networks is constructed to obtain user-related information across social networks. This multi-level chaotic encryption algorithm based on neural network is used to select three different chaotic mapping models based on user-related information, and a multi-level chaotic encryption algorithm is designed. According to the characteristics of error sensitivity of chaotic system, the neural network is used to inversely propagate the error. A chaotic encryption algorithm that implements multi-level encryption of user-related information across social networks is optimized. The experimental results show that the average rate for which the proposed algorithm correctly identified the user-related information across social networks was 97.6%, the highest frequency of average character distribution probability in cipher text was 0.021, and the average time for encryption was 18.45 Mbps. The average time for decryption was 21.90Mbps.
Multi-target tracking algorithm in intelligent transportation based on wireless sensor network
Authors: Lei Yang , Wu Yuan , Chowdhury Ahmad Jalal Khan 
Published: January 2019

AbstractThe traditional extended Kalman algorithm for multi-target tracking in the field of intelligent transportation does not consider the occlusion problem of the multi-target tracking process, and has the disadvantage of low multi-target tracking accuracy. A multi-target tracking algorithm using wireless sensors in an intelligent transportation system is proposed. Based on the dynamic clustering structure, the measurement results of each sensor are the superimposed results of sound signals and environmental noise from multiple targets. During the tracking process, each target corresponds to a particle filter. When the target spacing is relatively close to each other, each master node realizes distributed multi-target tracking through information exchange. At the same time, it is also necessary to consider the overlap between adjacent frames. Since the moving target speed is too fast, the target occlusion has the least influence on the tracking accuracy, and can accurately track multiple targets. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has a target tracking error of 0.5 m to 1 m, and the tracking result has high precision.