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Factors Contributing to Drug Resistant Tuberculosis: A Case Study of Tuberculosis Patients Attending Rift Valley Provincial General Hospital Nakuru, Kenya
Lucia Kipkoech Keter,
Silas Kandie Cherogony,
Richard Kipserem Korir,
Charles Mutai
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
45-52
Received:
26 August 2014
Accepted:
19 March 2015
Published:
6 May 2015
Abstract: Tuberculosis remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Kenya. The main challenges compounding Tuberculosis control include drug resistant tuberculosis, Human Immunodeficiency Virus /Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) co-infections and the declining funding for tuberculosis control among others. Factors such as non-adherence to therapy, poor drug quality or poor prescribing practices have been reported to contribute to Drug Resistance TB. The study aimed at establishing factors that contribute to development of Drug Resistant Tuberculosis among patients on TB treatment attending the Rift Valley Provincial General Hospital, Nakuru. The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive survey of patients with tuberculosis. Primary data was collected using semi structured questionnaire while secondary data was retrieved from the patient’s treatment records. Clearance to conduct the study was sought from the Hospital Authorities and written consent obtained from the participants. Data was analyzed using computer Statistical Package for Social Science. Fifty three percent of the study participants were in the 21 – 40 years age brackets while the male to female ratio was 5:4. Majority (61.3 %) of the patients were co-infected with HIV/AIDS and 42.5 % were new smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), 23.7 % were smear negative PTB or Extra-Pulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB), 28.5 % were retreatment and/ or relapse while 4.3 % were chronic and/ or multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). Eighty five percent of the participants adhered to treatment while patients beginning to feel better was cited as the major factor (42.5 %) leading to non-adherence to treatment. High percentage of tuberculosis - HIV/AIDS co-infection and high prevalence of tuberculosis among women was observed in this study. There need for impact assessment of the 2007/ 2008 post-elections violence on the spread of TB and development of MDR-TB in the affected parts of Rift Valley Province.
Abstract: Tuberculosis remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Kenya. The main challenges compounding Tuberculosis control include drug resistant tuberculosis, Human Immunodeficiency Virus /Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) co-infections and the declining funding for tuberculosis control among others. Factors such as non-adherence to ...
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Event Tree as a Classification Model
Jelena Djurovic,
Danica Brzic,
Tatjana Kaludjerovic Radoicic
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
53-57
Received:
30 March 2015
Accepted:
6 April 2015
Published:
21 April 2015
Abstract: In this paper event tree model as qualitative support method was used. This is applied to fault tree analysis. Transfer and transformation facts and rules for problem solving were described. Method for knowledge extraction was presented. Mechanism of decision making and conclusions was implemented. Faults detection and classification were examined. That is significant for isolating all types of hazard and take appropriate steps to reduce and control these hazards.
Abstract: In this paper event tree model as qualitative support method was used. This is applied to fault tree analysis. Transfer and transformation facts and rules for problem solving were described. Method for knowledge extraction was presented. Mechanism of decision making and conclusions was implemented. Faults detection and classification were examined....
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Large Scale Process System Optimization
Milan Milivojevic,
Stanko Zerajic
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
58-65
Received:
31 March 2015
Accepted:
6 April 2015
Published:
21 April 2015
Abstract: Optimization requires object function definition, constraints, and criteria. Complex optimization with more independent variables and more object functions has some diffulcuties. Simplified models often are very useful to represent the problem adequately over small ranges of the independent variables. Because of that structure representation methods were studied in this paper. Block diagrams, system streams, block element with system inputs and outputs were examined. In this paper an approach of complex optimization of production system by duals optimization was derived.
Abstract: Optimization requires object function definition, constraints, and criteria. Complex optimization with more independent variables and more object functions has some diffulcuties. Simplified models often are very useful to represent the problem adequately over small ranges of the independent variables. Because of that structure representation method...
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Modeling Method in the Scientific Research
Jelenka Savkovic-Stevanovic
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
66-71
Received:
30 March 2015
Accepted:
16 April 2015
Published:
29 April 2015
Abstract: In this paper modeling method in research was studied. The knowledge acquisition of structural description from examples was provided. Knowledge based systems must represent information abstractly so that it can be stored and manipulated effectively. There are difficulties formulating the knowledge explicitly as rules and other abstractions and induction. Inductive and deductive methods were considered. In this paper models purpose in research work was examined. Knowledge formulation and learning principles by models were studied.
Abstract: In this paper modeling method in research was studied. The knowledge acquisition of structural description from examples was provided. Knowledge based systems must represent information abstractly so that it can be stored and manipulated effectively. There are difficulties formulating the knowledge explicitly as rules and other abstractions and ind...
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Modeling Principles, Theory and Methods
Jelenka Savkovic-Stevanovic
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
72-78
Received:
30 March 2015
Accepted:
17 April 2015
Published:
11 May 2015
Abstract: In this paper modeling theory and methods were developed. Modeling method linking previous knowledge, known facts, scientific laws and hypothesis so that from them can conclude knew knowledge about given domain Integration modeling method was derived. Models in various levels were investigated including variables input and output parameters, and contour conditions. Fundamentals of the microscopic to the macroscopic models were studied. The molecular modeling was considered. The process operation models were derived.
Abstract: In this paper modeling theory and methods were developed. Modeling method linking previous knowledge, known facts, scientific laws and hypothesis so that from them can conclude knew knowledge about given domain Integration modeling method was derived. Models in various levels were investigated including variables input and output parameters, and co...
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Unlocking the Quest for Artificial Wisdom as Integration of Artificial Intelligence with Desire
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
79-88
Received:
20 March 2015
Accepted:
21 March 2015
Published:
27 May 2015
Abstract: Wisdom = Knowledge + Desire. Desire = Need - Knowledge of Self - Unbiased Reasoning. Wisdom is the process of dynamic correlations among knowledge quanta (KQ), and desire quanta to generate new knowledge, and desire quanta, that in turn generates new propositions as priori, or, counterbalanced, or self-presenting to have 'true belief de re' to enable belief without sufficient evidence or dis-belief with sufficient evidence. Dynamic correlation procedure is the use of generalizability thesis (GZT) to synthesize inside intelligence improvement loop (IIL). The collection of data, creation of information, crashing of information to KQ and conceiving of KQ in long term memory (LTM) on generation of explicit links to other KQs those are already in existence and subsequent generation of wisdom module to be collected as data is termed as IIL. We may define artificial wisdom (AW) as integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with desire. AI is the p proposition of GZT, desire is the q proposition, and r is the integration operator (INO). Thinking and creation is manifestation of dynamic correlation of desire with knowledge. INO should have two parts - integration process (IP) and integration rules (IR). IP will be the set of propositions to effect the AI to satisfy needs. IP always follows IR to fulfill the growth needs. As per IIL the set of rules or algorithms are the scholar’s capability to reference different KQ simultaneously. The edge of discovery comes from the effectiveness of the parallel processing activities of the multiprocessor environment that again in turn depends on the rules and algorithms defined with propositional knowledge. The thinking capability of AW is to be branched out in 'mutually exclusive and/or inclusive' hardware and software standardizations. The term 'mutually exclusive and/or inclusive' refers a multiprocessor parallel processing system, with simplified linking and loading scheme to work in real time. That is a machine that can behave, think like a human and be trained or else upgraded with very simple instruction sets. This seems to be easier if there is a hardware interpreter for high-level language. It is interpreter because while referencing a KQ for any (possible) remark, KQ will interpret only the present information (focal knowledge with respect to the comprehensive whole for which it is called for).
Abstract: Wisdom = Knowledge + Desire. Desire = Need - Knowledge of Self - Unbiased Reasoning. Wisdom is the process of dynamic correlations among knowledge quanta (KQ), and desire quanta to generate new knowledge, and desire quanta, that in turn generates new propositions as priori, or, counterbalanced, or self-presenting to have 'true belief de re' to enab...
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HPLC Analysis and Bio-kinetics Study of Pyrazinamide in Healthy Volunteers After Oral Administration
Bushra Munir,
Bilal Ahmed,
Abdul Ghaffar,
Tahira Iqbal,
Naila Rafiq,
Farah Latif
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
89-92
Received:
21 February 2015
Accepted:
1 March 2015
Published:
28 May 2015
Abstract: Pyrazinamide is use for the treatment of tuberculosis in all over the world. Bio kinetics deals with the mathematical description of drug changes in the body with time function. This study was designed to investigate the bio kinetics of Pyrazinamide after oral administration of Pyrazinamide (25mg) tablet in 10 healthy volunteers. The blood samples of each volunteer were collected from 0.5 to 12 hours at different time intervals after the medication. The concentration of Pyrazinamide in plasma samples were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Quantitative observations were recorded that include the mean ± SD value of absorption rate constant (Ka), time to peak (Tmax) and peak concentration (Cmax) were 0.38 ± 0.25/h, 2.248 ± 0.64 h and 4.165 ± 2.13µg/mL, respectively. The mean ± SD values of absorption half-life (t1/2a) and elimination half-life (t1/2b) were 2.078 ± 1.678h and 0.2908 ± 1.721 hours. The mean ± SD values of volume of distribution and total body clearance were 40 ± 27.4L and 3.351 ± 1.27 h, respectively. Mean residue time (MRT) showed mean ± SD and area under curve (AUC) were 17.23 ± 12.78 h and 90.4 ± 76.2 h.mg/L, respectively.
Abstract: Pyrazinamide is use for the treatment of tuberculosis in all over the world. Bio kinetics deals with the mathematical description of drug changes in the body with time function. This study was designed to investigate the bio kinetics of Pyrazinamide after oral administration of Pyrazinamide (25mg) tablet in 10 healthy volunteers. The blood samples ...
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Illuminance of FL Tubes Controlled by Depths of Gap Between Positive Column and Phosphor Screen
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
93-104
Received:
11 May 2015
Accepted:
23 May 2015
Published:
5 June 2015
Abstract: Since the opaque phosphor screens cover up the inside of the FL tubes, the presence of the depths of the gap between positive column and phosphor screen has ever reported in the study on the lighted FL tubes since the invention of the FL tube. It has found that the depths of the gap in the lighted FL tubes conceal the unrivaled advantage of the FL tubes over the solid lighting devices. The invisible depths of the gap are non-distractively and quantitatively determined by the measurements of the build-up curve of the light intensities from the lighted FL tubes in the Ulbricht Sphere. The determined depth of the gap of the selected commercial 40W-HCFL tube as the best one was 3 x 10-3 m. The depths of the gap are markedly changed with the FL producers, indicating no quality control of the gaps. The unexcited Hg atoms in the gap act as the optical filter for the UV lights from the positive column before reaching to the phosphor screen. The results suggest us that if the depth of the gap reduces to 3 x 10-4 m, the illuminance (lm m-2) of the present 40W-HCFL tube will go up to 2.5 times. The systematic study on the gaps of the lighted FL tube remains for a future study.
Abstract: Since the opaque phosphor screens cover up the inside of the FL tubes, the presence of the depths of the gap between positive column and phosphor screen has ever reported in the study on the lighted FL tubes since the invention of the FL tube. It has found that the depths of the gap in the lighted FL tubes conceal the unrivaled advantage of the FL ...
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Study on Variation in Seed Morphology, Oil Content and Fatty Acid Profile of Madhuca longifolia Grown in Different Agro-Climatic Zones in Sri Lanka
Mihiri Munasinghe,
Jagath Wansapala
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
105-109
Received:
17 May 2015
Accepted:
23 May 2015
Published:
10 June 2015
Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the variation in morphology of seeds, seed oil content and the fatty acid profile of M. longifolia and, to find the relationship between oil content and fatty acid composition with environmental conditions. Seeds were collected representing four agro-climatic zones in Sri Lanka. The length (2.7333-3.4333 cm), width (1.0633-1.2967 cm) and the weight (0.9262-1.4018 g) were determined in seeds. Significant differences were there within agro-climatic zones. Oil from seed kernel was extracted with Soxhlet method using n-Hexane (bp. 65-70° C) and the fatty acid profile was determined using GC-MS (Gas chromatography-Mass spectrophotometry). Results reveal significant differences in oil content (50.07-53.85%) among agro-climatic zones. As the major fatty acids, Oleic, Stearic, Palmitic and Linoleic were resulted in all four agro-climatic zones. The total saturated fatty acid content (C18:0, C16:0, C14:0, C17:0, C19:0, C22:0, C24:0, C26:0, C20:0 and C8:0) varied from 40.87-47.20%. However the total unsaturated fatty acid content (C16:1, C18:1, C18:2, C20:1) was within the range of 49.6-53.86% (TMUFA+TPUFA), here the highest content was recorded in low country intermediate zone and the lowest in mid country intermediate zone. Oil content and the fatty acid composition were not correlated with the studied geographical parameters.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the variation in morphology of seeds, seed oil content and the fatty acid profile of M. longifolia and, to find the relationship between oil content and fatty acid composition with environmental conditions. Seeds were collected representing four agro-climatic zones in Sri Lanka. The length (2.7333-3.4333 cm), ...
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Sorption of Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate (LAS) onto El-Mex Bay Sediments, Mediterranean Sea, Egypt
Mohamed Abd El-Aziz Okbah,
Abd El-Monum Mohamed Ibrahim,
Mohamed Nazieh Gamal,
Edweb Ali Salem Dango
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
110-121
Received:
22 May 2015
Accepted:
29 May 2015
Published:
11 June 2015
Abstract: The objective of this work is to study the sorption behavior of Linear Alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) onto El-Mex Bay sediments. The Bay is a part of Alexandria coast on the Mediterranean Sea located in Northern Egypt. The study showed homogenous distributions of LAS homologues in El-Mex Bay sediments. The range of the LAS concentration in sediments was between 0.370 and 0.540 μgg-1 dry solids. High total LAS concentrations in the bay sediments coincide with small amounts of DO (0.5-1.9 mgl-1) and low Eh values. The LAS homologues were usually detected between 10 and 13 carbon atoms, with C11- and C12-LAS; they are the most adsorbed on the bay sediments. Sorption experiments on the Bay sediments were performed with different organic matter content (ranged from 0.9 to1.16%) and were applied at different pH values (3.8, 8.5 and 12). The sorption behavior of LAS on El-Mex Bay sediments is satisfactory described by the Freundlich and Stern-Graham isotherm equations. Based on the data presented in this work, the following conclusion was drawn: Sorption distribution coefficients were significantly increased with the increasing the organic matter content due to the hydrophobic interaction between the alkyl chain and organic carbon content of the sediment. LAS sorption on sediments was strongly affected by pH and decreased with increasing pH value for each sediment sample which can be attributed either to electrostatic interactions or to specific chemical interactions.
Abstract: The objective of this work is to study the sorption behavior of Linear Alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) onto El-Mex Bay sediments. The Bay is a part of Alexandria coast on the Mediterranean Sea located in Northern Egypt. The study showed homogenous distributions of LAS homologues in El-Mex Bay sediments. The range of the LAS concentration in sediments ...
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Purification and Characterization of Carbon Nanotubes and the Formation of Magnetic Semiconductors for the Spintronic Application
Chernet Amente,
Keya Dharamvir
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 3, June 2015
Pages:
122-128
Received:
11 May 2015
Accepted:
1 June 2015
Published:
25 June 2015
Abstract: This article reports the synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) encapsulating iron (Fe) that would lead to formation of magnetic semiconductors, employing the arc discharge method. Morphology of the samples is studied from transmission electron microscope (TEM) imaging. Data is recorded by x-ray diffractometer (XRD) and identification of the sample constituent by energy dispersion x-ray (EDX). TEM images of metal added samples indicated that defects are completely removed after mono acidic treatment and open air oxidizing at 4000C for 15 minutes, leaving nano sized carbonaceous attached on surfaces of carbon nanotubes and catalyst particles encapsulated. This formation is recognized as a phenomenon at certain temperature. EDX examination shows that there is oxygen constituent remaining after purification along with iron and carbon, perhaps forming FeO during the reaction with water, indicating success in metal incorporation. This envisages that there would be formation of magnetic semiconductors where iron ions may take carbon cites in the CNTs of semiconducting characteristics, as can be revealed from experiments. This suggests that magnetic carbon nanotubes can be used for the spintronic application.
Abstract: This article reports the synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) encapsulating iron (Fe) that would lead to formation of magnetic semiconductors, employing the arc discharge method. Morphology of the samples is studied from transmission electron microscope (TEM) imaging. Data is recorded by x-ray diffractometer (XRD) and identification of the sample c...
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