bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extension Master Gardener Volunteers of the 21st Century: Educated, Prosperous, and Committed
Authors: Dorn Sheri T. , Newberry Milton G. , Bauske Ellen M. , Pennisi Svoboda V.
Published: May 2018

This present quantitative study documented the demographic base of 21st century Extension Master Gardener (EMG) volunteers in the United States. As the EMG program approaches its fifth decade and momentum builds for national leadership, collaborative programming, and innovative impact reporting, it is important to understand the characteristics of the current volunteers and their coordinators. A national study of EMG coordinators and volunteers was conducted in Fall 2016. Response was strong, representing 71.4% of state programs and 7498 volunteers. Responding state coordinators are primarily white females, have a mean age of 51.2 years, and have served in their position an average of 7.2 years. Most state coordinators (94.1%) have a graduate degree (master’s or higher). Responding local coordinators are primarily white females, have a mean age of 51.9 years, and have served in their position 7.5 years. Some local coordinators (57.4%) have a graduate degree (master’s or higher). EMG volunteers responding were primarily female, white, educated, retired, and of economic means; have a mean age of 64.8 years; and have served an average of 7.7 years. Four generations [Traditionalist (born 1925–42), Baby Boomer (born 1943–60), GenX (born 1961–81), and GenY (born 1982–2000)] were represented in survey responses. EMG volunteers were 14.5% Traditionalists, 73.2% Baby Boomers, 11.5% GenX, and 0.9% GenY. There were significant differences in the age, age at initial training, years of active service, and service hours reported in 2015 (the prior complete program cycle) among four generations of EMG volunteers. Responses from EMG volunteers and their coordinators represented all six extension programmatic regions established by the EMG National Committee. Significant differences in age, years of service, and number of volunteer service hours reported in 2015 exist among EMG volunteers across extension programmatic regions. The majority of EMG volunteers responding to the survey indicated they volunteered in an urban county (80.5%), whereas 17.2% of respondents served in a suburban county and 2.1% were connected with rural counties. There were no significant differences in the average age, years of service, and number of volunteer service hours reported in 2015 for EMG volunteers in urban, suburban, and rural programs. Historical data and the present study share similar trends within demographics, including age, income, gender, education, and race/ethnicity, yet offer important considerations for future program growth and development.
PENGEMBANGAN LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM MENGGUNAKAN FRAMEWORK CODEIGNITER DAN ANGULARJS DI PT. XYZ
Authors: Putri Denti Denita
Published: May 2018

Teknologi informasi merupakan hal yang sangat umum pada era globalisasi ini. Teknologi informasi telah banyak digunakan oleh masyarakat khususnya di dalam perusahaan untuk membantu kegiatan sesuai dengan proses bisnis yang diterapkan perusahaan, salah satunya adalah PT. XYZ. PT. XYZ  merupakan perusahaan yang memiliki program utama yaitu penyelenggaran pendidikan dan pelatihan serta assessment kompetensi pegawai. PT. XYZ memanfaatkan teknologi untuk melakukan penyelenggaraan pendidikan dan pelatihan dengan menerapkan Learning Management System (LMS). Saat ini, LMS yang diterapkan perusahaan hanya mengakomodasi sebagian dari proses bisnis perusahaan sehingga perlu adanya pengembangan lebih lanjut untuk membantu dalam meningkatkan efektivitas dan efisiensi kinerja yang dilakukan sesuai dengan proses bisnis yang berjalan di perusahaan. LMS ini digunakan untuk mempermudah dalam pengolahan data-data master yang dibutuhkan dalam menunjang kegiatan pelatihan dan pembelajaran salah satunya adalah data master materi. Metode pengembangan LMS yang digunakan adalah metode SDLC dengan model inkremental. Implementasi LMS menggunakan framework Bootstrap, AngularJS, dan Codeigniter, serta Database Management System (DBMS) MySQL. Hasil pengujian sistem menunjukan bahwa LMS telah berjalan sesuai dengan permintaan dan kebutuhan perusahaan sehingga lebih efektif dan efisien dalam pelaksanaan kegiatan pembelajaran dan pelatihan para pegawainya.
EVALUATION OF USER SATISFACTION FOR PASSER BORDER INFORMATION SYSTEM THE STATE OF INDONESIA AND TIMOR-LESTE
Authors: Tjiptabudi Fransiskus Mario Hartono , Igon Skolastika Siba , Bernardino Raul
Published: May 2018

The administrative process that had previously applied to the cross border Post or ‘Pos Lintas Batas Negara (PLBN)’ is integrated with the way of manuscript the passport data information or ‘Pas Lintas Batas (PLB)’-special card for habitants whereas living a long site of the both coutries border (Indonesia and Timor-Leste), information on a card and then do a recapitulation. This manuscript administration gave unfavourable result such as not have proper archiving in the filing cabinet and difficulty of the search data for the report purpose. To solve these problems, then it has been developed and implemented an application which called ‘Sistem Informasi Pelintas Batas Wilayah Negara (SINTASWIN).’ This Sintaswin application is applied to the immigration authorities in order to record and control the border crosser (traveler). This system will support the national policies and strategies of the Government in managing boarder region. However, the implementation of any application system has it constraints; therefore it needs to be evaluated such as to evaluate end user satisfaction. This study aims to evaluate the satisfaction of users by applying End User Computing Satisfaction (EUCS) methods in order to produce recommendations for the improvement and system development in the future.
Spatial Analysis of Public Services (schools) in Nablus City Using the Tool of Geographic Information System (GIS)
Authors: Moghayer Taher J.T. , Abdelhamid Ali , Xingping Wang
Published: May 2018

This paper basically aims to study the existing public services (schools) in Nablus city in terms of their capability, distribution and suitability for the urban expansion and population growth in the city. This paper includes a comprehensive survey of all schools in the city in order to provide a database of this service, in addition to data about the number of students, teachers and architectural characteristics of the building and their services. It also measures the level of satisfaction of such public services was measured through the results of the questionnaire distributed to a random sample of students. The methodology of the study was based mainly on the descriptive and analytical research methods by using the tool of Geographic Information System (GIS) and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) as well as using certain geographic models like nearest neighbor analysis. The results of the study indicated the existence of randomness in the distribution of schools in Nablus city due to the absence of proper planning and reference to planning regulations. In addition, the study showed the lack of efficiency and capability of such services.
The Impact of Western Culture on the Transformation of Residential Patterns in One of the Heritage Areas in Baghdad (Neighborhood CREMAT / Salhiya - Baghdad Model)
Authors: Alamiri Shatha A. , Alzubaidy Doaa M.
Published: May 2018

The traditional housing of Baghdadi has undergone many transformations in the past century. This is noticed in many districts of traditional Baghdad and its heritage. In this period, architectural styles with Western influences were observed as a result of the political conditions and foreign colonization that swept the country. German architecture, English and French and other models in our old heritage stores, especially in the neighborhood of CREMAT in Salhia - Baghdad. With this level of complexity of the models, we have to disclose and study during the research process to reach the mechanisms and adaptation of Western models designed for an environment of a different nature adapted to our environment and the local Baghdad and take advantage of these global experiences in the design process. Therefore, the research highlighted the influence of Western culture on our Baghdadi architectural culture to preserve the landmarks of the past so that future children can see it. Ever since man's historical awareness of the past, the present and the future, he tried to record his present and preserve his past for the future. The urban heritage reflects the cultural identity of man: his past, his present and his future. Our Baghdad Municipality has been characterized by functional organization of the elements of the house, relying on the internal courtyard to provide the necessary privacy to the population and the use of local construction materials such as bricks, plaster, stone and palms and the use of the sheds in the internal atmosphere of the rooms. All examples of Baghdadi heritage architecture share a distinctive architectural character that belongs to the region and reflects all of its cultural, environmental and social conditions. Therefore, the research will try to reach the impact of these civilizations on the Baghdadi style, especially in the residential architecture of Baghdad. The objective of the research was to describe the effects of Western culture on the architectural style of the Salhia area and its adaptation to the local style of the region while attempting to come up with new and traditional indicators of transformation in residential patterns. In order to address the research problem, which is the phenomenon of divergence in the decisions of the traditional residential patterns in the locality of the CREMAT - Salhia, and to verify the goal of the desired research, the research plan is to analyze the chronological sequence of the ancient models in the region and identifying the identity of each model and then how to diagnose changes in traditional architectural styles through its holistic calendar and the appearance of the architectural style of the Salhia in this architectural form. The results showed the impact of Western cultures on the identity of the Baghdad residential area.
Supporting Mobility Across European Cities through Physically Active-Friendly Urban Environments
Authors: Ndukwe Rosina U.
Published: May 2018

Active transport i.e. cycling or walking as well as using public transport for everyday journeys is an effective approach with multiple social and environmental benefits for transforming urban environments into active urban environments. Although cycling and walking often remain on the margins of transport planning and infrastructure, there are new approaches emerging along with policies relevant to the creation of urban environments conducive to active travel. Interventions and policies for developing physically active-friendly environments across towns and cities in Europe are central to facilitating the promotion of physical activity and sustainable transport among the local population. A 3-year Erasmus+ project called SPAcE (Supporting Policy and action for Active Environments) involves local government partners and an NGO developing policies and interventions to promote physically active-friendly environments in five European towns/cities: Latvia [Tukums], Italy [Palermo], Romania [Brasov], Spain [Toledo] and Greece [Trikala]. The project has focused on cities with recorded low physical activity levels. 5 working groups across these towns/cities have started co-production to develop Urban Active Environments (UActivE) Action Plans aimed at influencing policy and practice for active transport programmes promoting the use of cycling and walking. Action plans are based on international guidance for healthy urban planning as remaining project partners include universities and an NGO who have provided support, advice and mentoring. Cooperation and co-production with public health professionals, local government officers, education authorities and transport agencies is a key approach to the project. Creating sustainable active urban environments is a key to healthier, cleaner, and economically successful cities. This goal can be reached by increased carbon-free forms of transportation such as walking and cycling. The SPAcE project aims to capture both the challenges and solutions for the development of active transport in urban spaces translating evidence into policy and practice and ensuring innovation at the policy level.
Performance of an autotrophic denitrification process with mixed electron donors and a functional microbial community
Authors: Luo Xianxin , Su Junfeng , Liu Han , Huang Tinglin , Wei Li , Nie Jiawei , Gao Hanyu , Li Dongpeng
Published: May 2018

A moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) using Mn(II) and Fe(II) as mixed electron donors was designed for nitrate removal. The optimal state, as determined by response surface methodology, was an Fe(II):Mn(II) molar ratio of 0.62, electron donor:electron acceptor molar ratio of 2.62 and hydraulic retention time of 10.88 h. Subsequently, the MBBR was applied to groundwater treatment and demonstrated a final nitrate-N removal efficiency of 99.5% with a nitrite-N accumulation rate of 0.0706 mg-N·L−1·h−1. Furthermore, high-throughput sequencing was employed to characterize bacterial communities in the MBBR. Results showed that the genera of Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter may make a contribution to the nitrate removal.
Chemopreventive Properties of Tolfenamic Acid: A Mechanistic Review
Authors: Feldman David , Leahy Elizabeth , Lee Seong-Ho
Published: May 2018

Tolfenamic acid is one of the conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs) commonly used for the treatment of inflammation, migraines and pain.
There has been a growing body of experimental evidence that tolfenamic acid possesses
anti-cancer activity. However, in order to develop a therapeutic strategy using tolfenamic
acid for the treatment of cancer, further research is required to highlight reliable cellular
and molecular mechanisms of anti-cancer properties. Tolfenamic acid has been shown to
alter the expression of several genes that represent cancer hallmarks including apoptosis,
growth arrest, angiogenesis and metastasis. Recently, a couple of research groups including
ours reported that tolfenamic acid targets multiple oncogenic or tumor suppressive
signaling pathways in various types of cancer models. Here, we highlight multiple molecular
targets responsible for the anti-cancer mechanism of tolfenamic acid and the benefits
of combinational use of this drug with other anti-cancer drugs.
APOC-III Antisense Oligonucleotides: A New Option for the Treatment of Hypertriglyceridemia
Authors: Schmitz Joel , Gouni-Berthold Ioanna
Published: May 2018

Elevated triglyceride levels (higher than ~1000 mg/dL) are associated with an increased
risk for pancreatitis. Apolipoprotein-CIII (apoC-III) plays a key role in the metabolism
of triglycerides and triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. Loss of function mutations in the gene
encoding apoC-III (APOC3) is associated with low triglyceride levels and a decreased risk for
cardiovascular disease (CVD) while overexpression of APOC3 is associated with hypertriglyceridemia.
Although many drugs such as fibrates, statins and omega-3 fatty acids modestly
decrease triglyceride levels (and apoC-III concentrations), there are many patients who
still have severe hypertriglyceridemia and are at increased risk for pancreatitis and potentially
for CVD. The antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) against APOC3 mRNA volanesorsen (previously
called ISIS 304801, ISIS-ApoCIIIRx and IONIS-ApoCIIIRx) robustly decreases both,
apoC-III production and triglyceride concentrations and is being currently evaluated in phase
3 trials. In this narrative review, we present the currently available clinical evidence on the
efficacy and safety of volanesorsen for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia.
Glomerular Endothelium and its Impact on Glomerular Filtration Barrier in Diabetes: Are the Gaps Still Illusive?
Authors: Ndisang Joseph Fomusi
Published: May 2018

Background:

Glomerular capillaries are lined with highly specialized fenestrated
endothelium which are primarily responsible to regulate high flux filtration of fluid
and small solutes. During filtration, plasma passes through the fenestrated endothelium
and basement membrane before it reaches the slit diaphragm, a specialized type of intercellular
junction that connects neighbouring podocytes.

Methods:

A PubMed search was done for recent articles on components of the glomerular
filtration barrier such as glomerular endothelial cells, podocytes and glomerular basement
membrane, and the effect of diabetes on these structures.

Results and Conclusion:

Generally, the onset of kidney dysfunction in many diabetic patients
is characterized by albuminuria/proteinuria, a pathophysiological event triggered by
several factors including; (i) endothelial activation and shading of glycocalyx, (ii) loss of
endothelial cell function, (ii) re-uptake of albumin by podocyte through a scavenger receptors
and (iv) rearrangement of podocyte cytoskeleton. Howeover, as podocyte effacement
does not always lead to proteinuria, the dynamic interplay between all constituents
of the glomerular filtration barrier including podocytes, endothelial cells and the basement
membrane may be fundamental for the effective filtration in healthy individuals. Thus, a
putative cross-talk amongst podocytes, endothelial cells and the basement membrane in
the homeostasis of glomerular function is envisaged. Although, the exact nature of this
cross-talk remains to be clearly elucidated, it is possible that the interaction between: (i)
glomerular endothelial cells and podocytes, (ii) glomerular endothelial cells and glomerular
basement membrane, (iii) podocytes and glomerular basement membrane, and (iv) the
simultaneous interaction amongst the three components collectively underpin effective
filtration in healthy individuals. A comprehensive understanding of these different interactions
still remains elusive. The elucidation of these multifaceted interactions will set the
stage for greater understanding of the pathophysiology of kidney dysfunction.
Upregulation of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 3 in Microglia by Cinnamic Acid
Authors: Chakrabarti Sudipta , Jana Malabendu , Roy Avik , Pahan Kalipada
Published: May 2018

Background:

Neuroinflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative
diseases including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) is an anti-inflammatory
molecule that suppresses cytokine signaling and inflammatory gene expression in different cells including microglia.

Objective:

The pathways through which SOCS3 could be upregulated are poorly described. Cinnamic acid is a metabolite
of cinnamon, a natural compound that is being widely used all over the world as a spice or flavoring agent.
Here, we examined if cinnamic acid could upregulate SOCS3 in microglia.

Method:

Microglia and astroglia isolated from mouse brain as well as BV-2 microglial cells were treated with cinnamic
acid followed by monitoring the level of SOCS3 and different proinflammatory molecules by RT-PCR and
real-time PCR. To nail down the mechanism, we also performed ChIP analysis to monitore the recruitment of cAMP
response element binding (CREB) to the socs3 gene promoter and carried out siRNA knockdown of CREB.

Results:

Cinnamic acid upregulated the expression of SOCS3 mRNA and protein in mouse BV-2 microglial cells in
dose- and time-dependent manner. Accordingly, cinnamic acid also increased the level of SOCS3 and suppressed the
expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and proinflammatory cytokines (TNFα, IL-1β and IL-6) in LPSstimulated
BV-2 microglial cells. Similar to BV-2 microglial cells, cinnamic acid also increased the expression of
SOCS3 in primary mouse microglia and astrocytes. We have seen that cAMP response element is present in the promoter
of socs3 gene, that cinnamic acid induces the activation of CREB, that siRNA knockdown of CREB abrogates
cinnamic acid-mediated upregulation of SOCS3, and that cinnamic acid treatment leads to the recruitment of CREB
to the socs3 gene.

Conclusions:

These studies suggest that cinnamic acid upregulates the expression of SOCS3 in glial cells via CREB
pathway, which may be of importance in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders.
Dietary Requirements for Proteins and Amino Acids in Human Nutrition
Authors: Brestenský Matej , Nitrayová Soňa , Patráš Peter , Nitray Jozef
Published: May 2018

Background:

An optimal dietary Amino Acid (AA) intake is necessary for the growth of
body proteins. A new method for protein quality evaluation called Digestible Indispensable AA Score
(DIAAS) was established. Despite that the information about dietary AA requirements are available
for different stages of life, in practical conditions, most people deal only with the dietary proteins, if
ever.

Objective:

The aim of this mini-review was to analyze the protein quality of protein sources by DIAAS
and to find AA and protein dietary requirements in human nutrition.

Methods:

A literature research was performed using the keyword “amino acid”, “diet”, “nutrition”,
“human”, “muscle” and “requirement” individually or all together, in Scopus, Web of Science and
Pubmed.

Results:

The optimum amount of dietary AA is necessary for AA utilization in the body and is limited
by AA which is present in the lowest amount; the surplus of other AA is not utilized in the body. Food
and Agriculture Organization reported requirements for dietary protein and AA intake for infants,
children, however for adults (over 18) for maintenance. Most of the studies which are dealing with the
dietary AA requirements in sports nutrition are aimed at the blends of AA and for branched-chain AA.
Concerning the protein quality, at this time, there is little information about the protein quality evaluated
by DIAAS method.

Conclusion:

Dietary intake of high-quality protein or a blend of different proteins will provide all AA
to the body. However, studies on protein quality evaluation by DIAAS method are necessary to perform.
The Impact of Orthodontic Bands on the Marginal Periodontium of Maxillary First Molars: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Radiographic Analysis
Authors: Teubner Sabine , Schmidlin Patrick R. , Menghini Giorgio , Attin Thomas , Baumgartner Stefan
Published: May 2018

Aim:

Available information on the effect of orthodontic treatment on crestal alveolar bone levels measured in radiographs is contradictory. The aim of this study was to compare the alveolar bone level and periodontal ligament space of banded upper first molars to untreated controls.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective cross-sectional radiographic study investigated alveolar bone levels of upper first molars of an orthodontic test group and an untreated control group of comparable age (15-16.25 years), using existing bitewing radiographs.

Eighty-six individuals were included in each group. Three parameters were measured mesially and distally on both sides of the patient as follows: I) Alveolar Bone Level (ABL): measured as the distance between the cemento-enamel junction and the alveolar crest, II) the Periodontal Ligament Space (PLS): measured as the most coronal distance between the alveolar crest and the tooth surface, and III) angle between the lines (alveolar crests mesial and distal) and (cemento-enamel junction mesial and distal).

Results:

The mean duration of the orthodontic treatment in the test group was 2.5 years. The periodontal ligament space was statistically significantly wider on mesial areas of right molars (mean 0.2 mm, p<0.01), but there was no statistically significant difference found in the three other areas (distal part of the right molar, mesial and distal parts of the left molar). There was a statistically significant mean alveolar bone loss in the right and left mesial areas, respectively accounting for 0.3 mm (p<0.001) and 0.2 mm (p<0.01). No statistically significant alveolar bone loss was measured on the distal surfaces of the upper molars. The angle was wider on both sides for the test group (right p<0.001 and left p<0.05).

Conclusions:

A significant alveolar bone loss on the mesial tooth surface of upper first molars after orthodontic treatment was found with concurrent different levelling angles in the test group. On all other sites, no statistically significant changes were found. There was some minimal statistical significant alveolar bone loss after finishing treatment in patients who had orthodontic bands placed on their maxillary 1st molars, but no clinical significance was found.
A Current Approach to Halitosis and Oral Malodor- A Mini Review
Authors: Bicak Damla Aksit
Published: May 2018

Background:

Halitosis, in other words, oral malodor is an important multifactorial health problem affecting the psychological and social life of individuals and is the most common reason for referral to dentists after dental caries and periodontal diseases.

Objective:

The objective of this review was to present and discuss conventional and recently introduced information about the types, causes, detection and treatment methods of halitosis.

Methods:

An expanded literature review was conducted which targeted all articles published in peer-reviewed journals relating to the topic of halitosis. Only articles written in Turkish and English languages were considered. The review itself began with a search of relevant subject headings such as ‘halitosis, oral malodor, volatile sulfur compounds in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar and Tubitak Ulakbim databases. A hand search of references was also performed.

Results:

When search results are combined, the total number of relevant literature was found to be 4646 abstracts and 978 full-text articles. Abstracts, editorial letters were not included and about half of full-text articles were not related to dental practice. Among the remaining 124 full-text articles, duplicated articles and articles written other than Turkish and English languages were removed and 54 full-text articles were used for this review.

Discussion:

According to the reviewed articles, both conventional and new methods were introduced in the management of halitosis. However, conventional methods seem to be more effective and widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of halitosis.

Conclusion:

As being first line professionals, dentists must analyze and treat oral problems which may be responsible for the patient's malodor, and should inform the patient about halitosis causes and oral hygiene procedures (tooth flossing, tongue cleaning, appropriate mouthwash and toothpaste selection and use) and if the problem persists, they should consult to a medical specialist.
BioFire Film Array Blood Culture Identification Panel for Rapid Detection of Pathogens from Sterile Sites - A Diagnostic Accuracy Study
Authors: Comyn Ailbhe , Ronayne Aoife , Nielsen Maryke J. , Cleary Jennifer , Cunney Robert , Drew Richard J.
Published: May 2018

Background:

Rapid diagnosis of the causative organism of invasive infections is critical to the improved care of patients. A new platform, FilmArray (BioFire Diagnostics, LLC, Salt Lake City, UT) allows for rapid PCR to be performed in less than two hours on positive blood cultures

Objective:

The aim was to perform a retrospective diagnostic accuracy study in a paediatric tertiary referral hospital comparing results from culture, our gold standard, against those obtained when the samples were tested directly using the FilmArray Blood Culture Identification (BCID) Panel (BioFire Diagnostics, LLC, Salt Lake City, UT).

Method:

Samples from sterile site infections were tested using traditional culture based methods as well as PCR testing, and these results were then compared to testing which was done directly on the FilmArray BC-ID panel.

Results:

Ninety-four samples were tested in total and concordant results were observed in 71 samples (76%). Correlation between detection of pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes by PCR and culture result was high (94% and 88% respectively). Discordant results could be explained by the cultured organism not having a target on the panel (n=8) or PCR detection of potentially non-viable bacteria in the sample (n=8); the remaining samples (n=9) were negative by PCR despite culturing an organism with a target present on the panel for that organism. We have demonstrated an overall correlation of 76% and that in some instances the PCR detected non-viable yet clinically significant bacteria.

Conclusion:

Use of the FilmArray BCID panel directly for samples from sterile sites should be considered when there is a high index of suspicion of a single-organism infection at that site prior to sampling.
Staphylococcus Aureus Surface Protein G is An Immunodominant Protein and a Possible Target in An Anti-Biofilm Drug Development
Authors: Belyi Yury , Rybolovlev Ivan , Polyakov Nikita , Chernikova Alena , Tabakova Irina , Gintsburg Alexandre
Published: May 2018

Background:

Staphylococcus aureusis a Gram-positive bacterium that causes severe illnesses in the human population. The capacity ofS. aureusstrains to form biofilms on biotic and abiotic surfaces creates serious problems for treatment of hospital infections and has stimulated efforts to develop new means of specific protection or immunotherapy.

Material and Methods:

We found that rabbit serum raised against crude concentratedS. aureusliquid culture significantly decreased the development of staphylococcal biofilmin vitro. To discover the corresponding staphylococcal antigen, we used mass-spectrometry and molecular cloning and identified three major immunodominant proteins. They included α-haemolysin, serine proteinase SplB andS. aureussurface protein G, known as adhesin SasG.

Results:

Although according to literature data, all these proteins represent virulence factors ofS. aureusand play diverse and important roles in the pathogenesis of staphylococcal diseases, only SasG can be directly implicated into the biofilm formation because of its surface location on a staphylococcal cell. Indeed, rabbit serum directed against purified recombinant SasG, similar to serum against crude staphylococcal liquid culture, prevented the formation of a biofilm.

Conclusion:

SasG can be considered as a target in an anti-biofilm drug development and a component of the vaccine or immunotherapeutic preparations directed against staphylococcal infections in humans.
Preclinical Study to Evaluate the Effect of Polyherbal Formulation on Metformin: Potential Herb-drug Interaction
Authors: Kumar Devendra , Trivedi Neerja , Dixit Rakesh Kumar
Published: May 2018

Objective: The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of a polyherbal formulation
(PHF) on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of metformin in rats.

Methods:

The present study was conducted to determine the beneficial outcomes of PHF along with
metformin by studying herb-drug interactions. PHF was prepared by five indigenous herbs, Those
are being used traditionally as antidiabetic in India. PHF doses (100 mg/kg/day) were administered
to Sprague-Dawley rats by an oral route of different groups for multiple weeks except for control.
Metformin (100 mg/kg) was orally administered at 7th and 30th day to control and PHF pretreated
rats for pharmacokinetics study while pharmacodynamics study was conducted in PHF treated and
untreated diabetic rats. No more significant difference was found in the pharmacokinetic parameters
in PHF treated at 7th day while a significant increase was found in AUC at the 30th day.

Results:

The hypoglycemic effect was observed with a combination of metformin and PHF, significantly
more compared to control. Metformin decreased the blood glucose 1.51 fold at 7th day and 1.7
fold at 30th day respectively, compared to control.

Conclusion:

Thus, this finding indicates that PHF increased the AUC of metformin. It might increase
bioavailability through drug-herb interaction thereby affecting the therapeutic effect. This
formulation can be considered as an adjunct to metformin in the management of diabetes mellitus.
The Assessment of ‘Sleepiness’ in Human Drug Trials: A New Perspective
Authors: Johns Murray
Published: May 2018

The investigation of the efficacy and safety of drugs requires assessments of their effects on alertness/sleepiness. Unfortunately, there is confusion about the nature of ‘sleepiness’, the factors which influence it, and how it can be measured under different circumstances. This review aims to clarify these matters and to offer some suggestions about how current difficulties might be overcome. Different meanings of the word ‘sleepiness’ are examined initially. Methods that purport to measure ‘sleepiness’ are then examined, including their testretest reliability and the relationship between the results of different measurements within the same subjects. Some objective methods are found not to be as reliable as was initially reported. Information about the reliability of several other methods is either inadequate or nonexistent. One assumption which underlies two frequently used objective methods for measuring ‘sleepiness’ (the Multiple Sleep Latency Test and the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test) is that the ‘sleepier’ a person is, the quicker they will fall asleep. While this assumption has face validity, other assumptions about these tests are re-examined and are found wanting, at least sometimes. The difficulty arises in part because it is not always clear when the sleep onset process begins and ends. ‘Sleepiness’ is found to be influenced much more by short-term factors, such as the subject’s posture at the time and during the preceding few minutes, than has been acknowledged previously. Some possible solutions to these difficulties are suggested, including a new conceptual model of sleep-wake control, with implications for the design of drug trials.
RNAi-mediated Resistance against Plant Parasitic Nematodes of Wheat Plants Obtained in Vitro Using Bioregulators of Microbiological Origin
Authors: Tsygankova Victoria A. , Andrusevich Yaroslav V. , Shysha Elena N. , Biliavska Lyudmila O. , Galagan Tatyana O. , Galkin Anatoly P. , Yemets Alla I. , Iutynska Galina A. , Blume Yaroslav B.
Published: May 2018

Background:

Plant parasitic nematodes are dangerous pests that damage various agricultural crops and decrease their productivity.

Objective:

The resistance of new lines of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants obtained under in vitro conditions on MS media containing microbial bioregulators to plant parasitic nematodes was studied under in vitro and greenhouse conditions.

Methods:

Here we conducted physiological and molecular-genetic studies of resistance of wheat plants to nematodes.

Results:

In vitro experiments showed that wheat plants grown on MS media with microbial bioregulators had 20-37 % of infestation with cereal cyst nematode Heterodera avenae, significantly lower when compared with 73 % of infestation of the control plants grown without bioregulators. Bioregulators increased morphometric parameters of the wheat plants obtained under in vitro conditions on MS media and further grown under greenhouse conditions on the natural invasive background: stem height increased 13.6-37.5 %, flag leaf length 18.0-19.3 %, ear length 6.8-24.6 %, and ear weight 27.0- 54.5 %, when compared with control wheat plants. The difference in the degree of hybridizated molecules mRNA and si/miRNA from control and experimental wheat plants increased: 15-39 % in plants grown under in vitro conditions on the invasive background created by H. avenae and 33-56 % in seeds of plants grown under greenhouse conditions on the natural invasive background. The silencing activity of si/miRNA from wheat plants grown on MS media with bioregulators increased: 20-51 % in plants grown under in vitro conditions on the invasive background created by H. avenae or 38-64 % in plants grown under greenhouse conditions on the natural invasive background.

Conclusion:

Our studies confirm the RNAi-mediated resistance to plant nematodes of wheat plants obtained on media with microbial bioregulators and grown under in vitro and greenhouse conditions.
A karbantartási stratégia hatása a megújuló energia rendszerek életciklus költségére
Authors: Kocsis Imre , T. Kiss Judit , Deák Krisztián
Published: May 2018

Az életciklus költségnek fontos szerepe van a beruházási döntésekben a megújuló energia hasznosítására alapozott rendszerek esetén. Mivel a gépészeti rendszerek karbantartási költsége általában jelentős részét  teszi ki az életciklus költségnek, a karbantartási stratégia nagy hatással van a megtérülésre. Az ipari termelésben alkalmazott karbantartási technikákat (diagnosztika, állapotfelügyelet, adatfeldolgozás, integrált informatikai rendszerek, gépi tanulás, automatizált döntéshozatal) célszerű bevonni a megújuló energia rendszerek tervezésébe, alkalmazásuk esetén elérhetők azok az előnyök, melyek a termelő szférában mindennaposak. Ebben a cikkben azt vizsgáljuk, hogy a karbantartási stratégiának milyen hatása van az életciklus költségre, és bemutatjuk a korszerű állapotfelügyeleti rendszerek alkalmazásából adódó előnyöket.
Energiamenedzsment térhódítása Magyarországon
Authors: Csipkés Margit , Pusztai László , Nagy Lajos
Published: May 2018

Mindennapi életünk egyik legfontosabb eleme az energia, azonban, ennek mértéke folyamatosan csökken. Ezért tanácsos a hagyományos energia mellett megújuló energiákat alkalmazni. A megújuló energiaforrások több figyelmet érdemelnek az energiamenedzsment területén, ugyanis a részarányuk egyre növekszik, bár százalékuk kicsi. Jelenleg, Magyarország és az Európai Unió energiapolitikájának iránymutatásai azt a célt tűzték ki, hogy a megújuló energiaforrások felhasználását növeljék. Ezek a direktívák hozzájárulnak a környezeti és éghajlatvédelmi célok eléréséhez, munkahelyek teremtéséhez, területi- és városfejlesztéshez, valamint az energia importtól való függőség csökkentéséhez. A cikkemben be szeretném mutatni az energiagazdálkodás területén alkalmazott számításokat, valamint fel szeretném térképezni azokat az energiagazdálkodási összefüggéseket, amelyek előtérbe kerültek a lakossági energiafogyasztás vizsgálatakor.
Viral Loads Within 6 Weeks After Diagnosis of HIV Infection in Early and Later Stages: Observational Study Using National Surveillance Data (Preprint)
Authors: Selik Richard M. , Linley Laurie
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Early (including acute) HIV infection is associated with viral loads higher than those in later stages.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the association between acute infection and viral loads near the time of diagnosis using data reported to the US National HIV Surveillance System.

METHODS

We analyzed data on infections diagnosed in 2012-2016 and reported through December 2017. Diagnosis and staging were based on the 2014 US surveillance case definition for HIV infection. We divided early HIV-1 infection (stage 0) into two subcategories. Subcategory 0α: a negative or indeterminate HIV-1 antibody test was ≤60 days after the first confirmed positive HIV-1 test or a negative or indeterminate antibody test or qualitative HIV-1 nucleic acid test (NAT) was ≤180 days before the first positive test, the latter being a NAT or detectable viral load. Subcategory 0β: a negative or indeterminate antibody or qualitative NAT was ≤180 days before the first positive test, the latter being an HIV antibody or antigen/antibody test. We compared median earliest viral loads for each stage and subcategory in each of the first 6 weeks after diagnosis using only the earliest viral load for each individual.

RESULTS

Of 203,392 infections, 56.69% (115,297/203,392) were reported with a quantified earliest viral load within 6 weeks after diagnosis and criteria sufficient to determine the stage at diagnosis. Among 5081 infections at stage 0, the median earliest viral load fell from 694,000 copies/mL in week 1 to 125,022 in week 2 and 43,473 by week 6. Among 30,910 infections in stage 1, the median earliest viral load ranged 15,412-17,495. Among 42,784 infections in stage 2, the median viral load declined from 44,973 in week 1 to 38,497 in week 6. Among 36,522 infections in stage 3 (AIDS), the median viral load dropped from 205,862 in week 1 to 119,000 in week 6. The median earliest viral load in stage 0 subcategory 0α fell from 1,344,590 copies/mL in week 1 to 362,467 in week 2 and 47,320 in week 6, while that in subcategory 0β was 70,114 copies/mL in week 1 and then 32,033 to 44,067 in weeks 2-6. The median viral load in subcategory 0α was higher than that in subcategory 0β in each of the first 6 weeks after diagnosis (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In the 1st week after diagnosis, viral loads in early infections are generally several times higher than those in later stages at diagnosis. By the 3rd week, however, most are lower than those in stage 3. High viral loads in early infection are much more common in subcategory 0α than in subcategory 0β, consistent with 0α comprising mostly acute infections and 0β comprising mostly postacute early infections. These findings may inform the prioritization of interventions for prevention.
Usability Evaluation of a Mobile Phone–Based System for Remote Monitoring and Management of Chemotherapy-Related Side Effects in Cancer Patients: Mixed-Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Moradian Saeed , Krzyzanowska Monika K. , Maguire Roma , Morita Plinio P. , Kukreti Vishal , Avery Jonathan , Liu Geoffrey , Cafazzo Joseph , Howell Doris
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

As most chemotherapy is administered in the outpatient setting, patients are required to manage related side effects at home without direct support from health professionals. The Advanced Symptom Management System (ASyMS) has been developed to facilitate the remote monitoring and management of chemotherapy-related toxicity in patients with cancer, using patient-reported outcomes questionnaires and a clinician alerting system.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the usability of the ASyMS, a mobile phone–based technology, from the perspective of Canadian patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy to identify existing design, functionality, and usability issues and elicit their views, experiences, and satisfaction with the ASyMS.

METHODS

We used a mixed-method approach to data collection with user-based testing, a think-aloud technique, semistructured interviews, and short answer questionnaires with a purposive sample of 10 patients with cancer. Participants attended usability testing sessions at the Centre for Global eHealth Innovation, University Health Network, and performed specific tasks on the ASyMS device. The test was videorecorded and each task was timed during the test. After the usability sessions, participants completed a posttest questionnaire and participated in a semistructured qualitative interview. A thematic analysis was used to code and categorize the identified issues into themes that summarized the type and frequency of occurrence.

RESULTS

The thematic analysis generated 3 overarching themes as follows: ASyMS user-friendliness; usefulness of ASyMS (content quality and richness); and intention to use. Results from the posttest questionnaire indicated that 80% (8/10) of participants had great motivation to use the ASyMS, 70% (7/10) had positive perceptions of the successful use of the ASyMS, and all (10/10, 100%) had a positive attitude toward using the ASyMS in the future. Most identified design and functionality issues were related to the navigation of the ASyMS device and a desire for a more attractive design with advanced functionality and features. The main general design recommendations were as follows: enhance the readability of the screen; implement advance options (eg, search option); and support better navigation.

CONCLUSIONS

The ASyMS has shown positive perceptions of patients in usability testing and qualitative interviews. An evaluation of the effects of the ASyMS on symptom outcomes in a clinical trial is needed.
Legitimación del statu quo a través de los mensajes presidenciales en Chile
Authors: Richmond Felipe , Brossi Lionel
Published: May 2018

Este artículo tiene como objetivo analizar una de las herramientas de comunicación política más relevantes en Chile: los mensajes presidenciales de cuenta pública. Se realiza un ejercicio analítico cualitativo, enmarcado en la metodología del análisis crítico del discurso (ACD), en el que se consideran aspectos teórico-políticos desde perspectivas lingüísticas, politológicas, sociológicas, mentales y contextuales presentes en los mensajes presidenciales de las administraciones de Sebastián Piñera (2010-2013) y Michelle Bachelet (2014-2017). Del análisis se desprende que el aspecto funcional de estos los discursos, conjugado con elementos de ritualidad y solemnidad, manifiesta la intención del Poder Ejecutivo de reafirmar su legitimidad mediante componentes retóricos que aparentan cuestionar los cimientos del statu quo, pero que, en términos concretos, perpetúan la naturaleza tradicional del sistema político, social y económico del país.
Conducta de los suscriptores en YouTube: estudio de caso del canal EnchufeTv
Authors: González-Martínez Elier , Chica Freire Diego Alejandro
Published: May 2018

La presente investigación analizó la conducta de los suscriptores del canal de YouTube EnchufeTv, de origen ecuatoriano, para observar si sus contenidos influyen en quienes los consumen. Utilizando un enfoque metodológico mixto, se aplicó un cuestionario a una muestra seleccionada en la ciudad de Guayaquil y se realizaron entrevistas a ciertos suscriptores del canal, para luego contrastar ambos datos. Los resultados arrojaron que los suscriptores se ven influenciados por EnchufeTv, en cuanto a sus gustos y a las formas en que los videos reflejan la realidad. Sin embargo, perciben la publicidad en los contenidos como una barrera a la comunicación y no se sienten atraídos a consumir productos complementarios, por lo que no se percibe una idea fuerte del canal como marca.
OS COLÉGIOS JESUÍTICOS EUROPEUS E SUAS INFLUÊNCIAS NO TEATRO POPULAR DE JOSÉ DE ANCHIETA: A ARTE DE CONVENCER
Authors: Silveira Camila Nunes Duarte , Casimiro Ana Palmira Bittencourt Santos , De Almeida Maria Cleidiana Oliveira
Published: May 2018

Cultura proletária ou cultura universal? Esse questionamento que delimita o núcleo da investigação apresentada neste texto analisa as divergências entre dirigentes revolucionários russos acerca dos rumos da cultura no embate político de transição ao socialismo. Este debate tem seu marco inicial no ano de 1908 e se acirra entre os anos de 1917 e 1924. As diferentes ideias colocavam de um lado Bolcheviques como Vladimir Lenin e Leon Trotski defendendo a necessidade da máxima apropriação da cultura universal na transição revolucionária ao socialismo; e, de outro, o movimento Proletkult (Cultura proletária) advogando a necessidade da construção de uma cultura produzida por meio dos saberes e experiências dos explorados, numa perspectiva de cultura do proletariado para o proletariado no processo revolucionário Russo. Nos embates prevaleceram as proposições dos Bolcheviques, em especial as preocupações de Lenin, que não era simpático à ideia de uma associação não ligada ao Partido Comunista influenciar ou dirigir a política cultural e educacional a ser implementada.