bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial Resistance of Enterococcus Species Isolated from Urine Cultures
Authors: ÇALGIN Mustafa , ÇETİNKOL Yeliz
Published: August 2019

Objective: Enterococcus spesies are among the common causes of nosocomial urinary tract infections mainly, along with other infections and have been observed to have increasing rates of resistance against antimicrobial agents in recent years. The aim of this study is to determine the Enterococcus spp. isolated from urine
cultures in our hospital and to determine antibiotic resistance rates.Methods:
Enterococcus isolates
identification and antibiogram results obtained from urine samples sent to Ordu
University Education and Research Hospital Microbiology laboratory from
inpatients and outpatients were retrospectively evaluated. The identification
and antimicrobial susceptibility tests of the isolates were completed on a VITEK
2 Compact (Biomerieux, Marcy l'Etoile, France) system. Resistance rates against
ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, nitrofurantoin, tigecycline, linezolid,
teicoplanin and vancomycin were analyzed.Results:
Our study identified 346
Enterococcus strains. These strains were defined as 195 Enterococcus faecalis (56%), 127 Enterococcus faecium (37%) and 24 other
enterococci (7%). The antimicrobials with highest resistance were ciprofloxacin
(51%), ampicillin (42%), nitrofurantoin (14%) and tigecycline (1%), in order,
with no resistance encountered for linezolid, teicoplanin and vancomycin.

Conclusion: Glycopeptide resistance were not encountered among enterococci isolated from urine cultures in our hospital, with qunolone resistance at the fore. The results of antimicrobial susceptibility tests
are important to select appropriate treatments.
THE EVALUATION OF HEALTH PROMOTION MEDIA AVAILABILITY IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Authors: Pertiwi Wiwik Eko , Annissa Annissa
Published: August 2019

Background: Health promotion is an effort to distribute health messages to all levels of society. In order for the achievement of the main purpose of health promotion , media or tools are needed so  health promotion becomes effective and efficient. The lack of availability of health promotion media especially in elementary schools is still low, so that it affects the low condition of student knowledge and attitudes in healthy behaviors. Purpose: This study was aimed to determine the availability of health promotion media in elementary schools (SD) in Kramatwatu District, Serang Regency, Banten Province. Methods: This study was conducted on December 2017 to July 2018 with a total sample of 31 elementary schools. The study uses a descriptive design that is described in depth about the availability of health promotion media in elementary schools. Results: The results showed that out of 31 elementary schools located in Kramatwatu sub-district, it was found that 64.5% of elementary schools had health promotion media, 29.0% of elementary schools stated that the type of health promotion media were posters, 19.4% were available as health promotional media in book form. A total of 38.7% stated that the number of health promotion media was lacking, 25.8% of the number of health promotion media was sufficient. The health promotion media that are most often accessed by elementary school students were books (67.7%). Conclusion: the availability of health promotion media in elementary schools of Kramatwatu District is still categorized as low.
DETERMINAN YANG BERHUBUNGAN DENGAN KEBERADAAN JENTIK DI KELURAHAN RANGKAH BUNTU, SURABAYA
Authors: Muda Alivia Sasa
Published: August 2019

Abstract: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever is still one of the major public health problems in Indonesia. In 2016, the number of deaths in East Java due to dengue as much as 339 people or 1.4% of total patients. At the end of 2017, 4 cases of dengue fever were found in the RW.VI, Rangkah Buntu Village, Surabaya. One of the causes of dengue is the presence of larvae. The purpose of this study to analyze the factors that affecting the presence of larvae in Rangkah Buntu Village. This research is an observational analytic research with quantitative approach. The study included cross sectional with a sample of 211 respondents. The sampling technique used is simple random sampling. The independent variables in this study were education, income, knowledge, attitude, 3M+, hanging dirty clothes for more than one day, draining the bath at least once a week and cleaning the house. And the dependent variable is the presence of larvae. Data collection techniques are divided into primary data (direct observation and questionnaire) and secondary data (journals and articles). Then the data were analyzed by chi square test with the help of SPSS program to see the influencing factor. The results of this study indicate that the knowledge, activity of draining the bath tub at least once a week and hanging dirty clothes more than one day have an influence with the presence of larvae (chi square obtained p <α (α = 0,05)).
FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI KEJADIAN DIARE DI TAMBAK SARI, KOTA SURABAYA
Authors: Prawati Debby Daviani
Published: August 2019

Background: Diarrhea is an illness which characterized by changed in shape, consistency of the stool and with excessive bowel frequency (more than 3 times within a day). Diarrhea disease is the third contributor of children’s morbidity and mortality rate around the world. Purpose: This study aims to analyzing factors that caused diarrhea’s cases. This research were an observational analytic type. Sampling technique were used random sampling / probability sampling. Methods: Data were analyzed by chi-square test. Data collection techniques were divided into primary data (direct observation and questionnaire) and secondary data (journals and articles). Results: On this research showed theres no significant correlation between sex, age, education, income, hand washing behavior using soap, clean water facility and trashbin condition with diarrhea occurrence during last 3 months in RW.VI Kelurahan Rangkah Buntu, Surabaya. There were a significant relation between cleaning up the environment, making and consuming oralit, and the behavior of handwashing with soap before meals at the rate of diarrhea cases during the last 3 months in RW VI Kelurahan Rangkah Buntu, Surabaya. Conclusion: theres no significant correlation between social demography, behavior using soap, clean water facility and trasbin and a significant relation between clean up the environtment, behavior handwashing, making and consuming oralit during the last 3 month in RW VI Kelurahan Rangkah Buntu, Surabaya.
EVALUASI DAN ANALISIS PELAKSANAAN MUSYAWARAH MASYARAKAT KELURAHAN DI WILAYAH PUSKESMAS X SURABAYA
Authors: Hidayah Malida Nurul
Published: August 2019

Background: Ministry of Health Republic of Indonesia create a vision in health development that is "Independent and Justice of Healthy Community". The embodiment of the mission statement is poured in the form of a strategic programs which is District Alert programs through Village Community Deliberation and Community Self Survey. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the implementation of Village Community Deliberation I and II of 2017 year in X Community Health Center. Methods: This type of research is descriptive observational. Data collection techniques used through interviews and secondary data collection. Methods of data analysis are done by doing a comparison between the data already obtained with the theory and guidelines in the implementation of research materials. This study lasted on February 26, 2018 - March 4, 2018. Results: Terms of implementers are still not in accordance with existing provisions, while for SMD executor already corresponding. In the aspect of the implementation of MMK and SMD is in accordance with the intended purpose as well as the results or output expected at the all stage. Conclusion: The stages of activities have held with appropriate the standards of existing regulations in Village Community Deliberation and Community Self Survey.
Emerging Trends in Ocular Drug Delivery Special Reference to In Situ Ophthalmic Gel
Authors: Ram Garg  , Vikas Kumar  , Vandana Sharma
Published: August 2019

Eye is the most complex and valuable organ of the body, because of its prompt pre-corneal elimination of dosage form. In order to overcome this, researchers developed a new system; in-situ gel forming system. This formulation undergoes phase transition in the eye to form gel, thus prolonging the precorneal contact time which will result in improved visual bioavailability. There are different novel ocular drug delivery systems such as In-situ gel, dendrimers, niosomes, nanoparticulate system, collagen shield, ocular iontophoresis suspension and ocusert etc. This framework comprises of polymer or mixture of polymers which display sol-gel transition due to physicochemical parameters (temperature, ion exchange & pH) of the body.  This novel drug delivery system promotes the importantly ease and convenience of administration, deliverance of accurate dose as well as to prolong residence time of drug in contact with mucosa. This review incorporates different temperature, pH, and ion induced in situ-forming polymeric systems used to achieve prolonged contact time of drugs with the cornea and increment their bioavailability.
Acute Encephalitis Syndrome-The Socio-economic Burden in India
Authors: Chairanjib Bhattacharjee  , Debjit Bhowmik
Published: August 2019

Acute encephalitis syndrome is a clinical condition caused by infection with Japanese encephalitis virus  or other infectious and noninfectious causes. Acute poses a great public health problem in India, occurring both in epidemics and sporadically. Seasonal outbreaks of acute encephalitis syndrome  occur with striking regularity in India and lead to substantial mortality. Several viruses, endemic in many parts of India, account for AES. Although Japanese encephalitis virus  is a key aetiological agent for AES in India, and has attracted countrywide attention, many recent studies suggest that enteroviruses and rhabdo viruses might account for outbreaks of AES. It is a neurological disorder which affects the brain and the limbic system when a specific strain of virus or a bacteria attacks the body. Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain tissue. Once the virus enters inside the blood, it starts migrating to the brain tissues and multiplies itself into numbers. As soon as the signal reaches to our immune system, it generates a response to it in the form of inflamed brain or we can say swelled up brain. When this self-generated response and the infection combines, this leads to viral encephalitis and it majorly affects the spinal cord and our central nervous system causing damage to the brain cells through virus-infected blood vessels.
Role of family influence, gender, and entrepreneurial education on Indonesian vocational students becoming entrepreneurs
Authors: Arquisola Maria Jacinta , Muanar Iseu Adywianti
Published: August 2019

The study analyzed whether family influence, gender, and entrepreneurial education would influence vocational students’ desire to become entrepreneurs. A survey was conducted in 6 vocational schools in Tasikmalaya, West Java, involving 246 vocational students. Using multiple regression analysis, findings show that entrepreneurial education has the highest influence (57.5%) shaping entrepreneurial intention among vocational students, while gender account for 30% influence on students’ entrepreneurial intention.  Male and female students believed that they must be given the same opportunities for entrepreneurship, yet there are feminine and masculine attributes that differentiate successful entrepreneurial plans between genders. Lastly, findings show that family background has the least influence (16%) on entrepreneurial intentions. Respondents disclosed that there are many choices open to them aside from being entrepreneurs, and they would opt for this choice instead of following their parents. Nevertheless, they believe in family support through advice and access to capital. Implications for research, policy, and practice are discussed. This study has shown evidence that entrepreneurship can be a solution to Indonesia’s high unemployment problem for young vocational students, but this entails better entrepreneurial education, the provision of gender-equal opportunities for males and female students, and enhanced family support for entrepreneurial ventures.
Shareholder loyalty and firm value creating outcomes in Kenya
Authors: Kimunya Amos Muhinga , Njuguna Amos , Wambalamba Francis
Published: August 2019

The study aimed at examining the effect of shareholder loyalty on firm value-creating outcomes in Kenya.  The study used a sample of 117 institutional shareholders in listed firms in Kenya. Data was collected through questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, mode, and median and inferential statistics including factor analysis, regression, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The study concluded that shareholder loyalty has no significant effect on firm value-creating outcomes. The study contributes to the literature on shareholder engagement, particulary on shareholder loyalty from a Kenyan angle. Shareholders are advised to consider their initial cost of investment, costs, and penalties on exit and impact on their business interests with the firm as they decide on their voice or exit actions.
Effect of developmental efficacy on leadership development
Authors: Mango Emmanuel , Koshal Jeremiah , Ouma Caren
Published: August 2019

The study investigates the effect of developmental efficacy (one of the elements of leader developmental readiness) on leadership development. The study was conducted among MBA students within private universities in Kenya. Data was collected through a validated instrument and correlation, one-way ANOVA, and regression analyses were performed. The results revealed that developmental efficacy significantly affects leadership development, F(1,286) = 79.803, p < 001, also developmental potency accounts for 21.8 percent of the variations in leadership development. The study implies that leadership developers ought to help leadership learners to gain higher developmental efficacy before or during the developmental program, for them to benefit fully from the leadership developmental interventions.
Influence of supportive and participative path-goal leadership styles and the moderating role of task structure on employee performance
Authors: Rana Rozmina , K’Aol George , Kirubi Michael
Published: August 2019

This study examined the influence of supportive and participative path-goal leadership styles, and the moderating role of task structure on employee performance of coffee trading companies in Kenya. The study was guided by the positivism philosophy and used a descriptive correlational research design. The population comprised 180 senior managers of coffee trading companies in Kenya, and a sample size of 139 was determined using stratified random sampling.  Primary data was collected using questionnaires. The response rate was 84%. The descriptive statistics were means and standard deviations while the inferential analysis included factor analysis, correlational analysis, chi-square, and regression analysis. Results of multiple linear regression analysis revealed that supportive leadership style did not significantly predict employee performance, R2= 0.001, F(1, 110) = 0.118,  p? .05, ? = -0.040, p ? .05 but that participative leadership style significantly predicted employee performance, R2= 0.865, F(1, 115) = 735.111, p ?.05, ? = 0.943, p?05.  Task structure was found to moderate the relationship between path-goal leadership styles and employee performance, R2= 0.094, F(5, 101) = 6.92, p ?.05, ? = 0.208,  p? .05.  The study recommends that leaders of coffee trading companies should apply a participative leadership style with their employees with constant communication and consultation in order to achieve optimal performance.
Influence of participative and achievement oriented leadership styles on employee job satisfaction in commercial banks in Kenya
Authors: Mwaisaka Davidson Mghanga , K'Aol George , Ouma Caren
Published: August 2019

The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of participative and achievement-oriented leadership styles on employee job satisfaction in commercial banks in Kenya. This study adopted the positivism research philosophy while building a descriptive correlational research design.  The target population of the study was 15,030 employees in all the 43 commercial banks licensed to operate in Kenya as of June 2018. , the study drew a sample size of 386 employees reporting to middle-level managers, using a stratified sampling technique. Data were collected utilizing a questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics — statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The results of the study showed that a participative leadership style and achievement-oriented leadership styles positively and significantly predicted employee job satisfaction. From the results of the regression analysis after moderation, it was revealed that environmental contingency factors significantly moderated the relationship between path-goal leadership style and employee job satisfaction.
Influence of bank stability on the financial performance of commercial banks in South Sudan
Authors: Chol Bak Barnaba , Nthambi Elizabeth Kalunda , Kamau Joseph N
Published: August 2019

Despite increasing bank competitiveness within the country for the past half-decade there has been scant literature examining their stability in the face of the numerous internal factors and economic shocks. Hence the current research aims to determine if bank stability has any effect on commercial bank’s fiscal performance in South Sudan. The study was guided by the CAMEL model metrics (ROA and ROE) in measuring stability and its influence on the monetary performance of commercial banks. SPSS 23 was used to carry out subsequent descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. The study was primarily grounded on the CAMEL model.  The correlation tests indicated that asset quality had a strong positive effect on monetary performance of commercial banks p= .784; a strong positive effect of management efficiency p= .758 and liquidity p= .620.
What Proportion Counts? Disaggregating Access to Safely Managed Sanitation in an Emerging Town in Tanzania
Authors: Komakech Hans C. , Moyo Francis , Roda Oscar Veses , Machunda Revocatus L. , Gautam Om P. , Smith Kyla M. , Cairncross Sandy
Published: August 2019

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.2 sets an ambitious target of leaving no one without adequate sanitation by 2030. The key concern is the lack of local human and financial capital to fund the collection of reliable information to monitor progress towards the goal. As a result, national and local records may be telling a different story of the proportion of safely managed sanitation that counts towards achieving the SDGs. This paper unveils such inconsistency in sanitation data generated by urban authorities and proposes a simple approach for collecting reliable and verifiable information on access to safely managed sanitation. The paper is based on a study conducted in Babati Town Council in Tanzania. Using a smartphone-based survey tool, city health officers were trained to map 17,383 housing units in the town. A housing unit may comprise of two or more households. The findings show that 5% practice open defecation, while 82% of the housing units have some forms of sanitation. Despite the extensive coverage, only 31% of the faecal sludge generated is safely contained, while 64% is not. This study demonstrates the possibility of using simple survey tools to collect reliable data for monitoring progress towards safely managed sanitation in the towns of global south.
Development of Advanced High Strength Steels Using Hydrogen Quench Continuous Annealing Technology
Authors: Barrado Francys , Zhou Tihe , Cathcart Chad , Badgley Peter , Zhang Sarah , Overby David
Published: August 2019

By using hydrogen quench continuous annealing technology, Stelco Inc. has developed a suite of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS) grades with tensile strength greater than 1000MPa to meet standard automotive specifications and for unique customer requirements. These grades were optimized by correlating chemical composition and processing parameters with microstructures and mechanical properties. Dual-Phase 980 (Stelco trademarked STELMAXTM 980DP), Multi-Phase 1180 (STELMAXTM 1180MP), Martensitic Steel 1300 (STELMAXTM 1300M) and 1500 (STELMAXTM 1500M) products met strength and formability requirements with excellent flatness and surface quality. Hydrogen quench continuous annealing technology not only ensures all developed AHSS grades have consistent mechanical properties across the entire strip length (from strip head to tail) and width (from edge to edge), but also produces high product yield compared with other continuous annealing processes.
Using the Immunophenotype to Predict Response to Biologic Drugs in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Mulhearn Ben , Barton Anne , Viatte Sebastien
Published: August 2019

Tumour necrosis factor-α is a key mediator of inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis its discovery led to the development of highly successful anti-TNF therapy. Subsequently, other biologic drugs targeting immune pathways, namely interleukin-6 blockade, B cell depletion, and T cell co-stimulation blockade, have been developed. Not all patients respond to a biologic drug leading to a knowledge gap between biologic therapies available and the confident prediction of response. So far, genetic studies have failed to uncover clinically informative biomarkers to predict response. Given that the targets of biologics are immune pathways, immunological study has become all the more pertinent. Furthermore, advances in single cell technology have enabled the characterisation of many leucocyte subsets. Studying the blood immunophenotype may therefore define biomarker profiles relevant to each individual patient’s disease and treatment outcome. This review summarises our current understanding of how immune biomarkers might be able to predict treatment response to biologic drugs.
Evaluation of In-Vitro Release Kinetic and Mechanisms of Curcumin Loaded-Cockle Shell-Derived Calcium Carbonate Nanoparticles
Authors: Muhammad Mailafiya Maryam , Abubakar Kabeer , Danmaigoro Abubakar , Musa Chiroma Samaila , Bin Abdul Rahim Ezamin , Aris Mohd Moklas Mohamad , Abu Bakar Zakaria Zuki
Published: August 2019

Curcumin has restrained clinical applications due to poor bioavailability. This study aimed to synthesize cockle shell-derived calcium carbonate (aragonite) nanoparticles (CSCaCO3NP) for delivery of curcumin and to evaluate its kinetic release in vitro. CSCaCO3NP was synthesized and conjugated with curcumin (Cur-CSCaCO3NP) using a simple top down approach and characterized for its physicochemical properties as a potential curcumin carrier. In vitro release profile was assessed using dialysis bag membrane method. The release data were fitted to Korsmeyer-Peppas, Zero order and Higuchi models to evaluate the mechanism of release pattern. A spherical shaped CSCaCO3NP with a surface area of 14.48±0.1 m2/g, average mean diameter size of 21.38±2.7 nm and a zeta potential of -18.7 mV was synthesized which has a high loading content and encapsulation efficiency. The FT-IR and XRD revealed less observable changes on the peaks after conjugation. In vitro kinetic release profile demonstrated sustained release and best fitted to the Higuchi equation model. The results of this study showed the capacity of the synthesized CSCaCO3NP to encapsulate curcumin efficiently with a stable release in vitro. This could give an insight and supportive ideas on the potentials of CSCaCO3NP for curcumin delivery. Therefore, CSCaCO3NP holds future prospects in preclinical framework to enhance curcumin efficacy for oral therapeutic applications.
Large-Scale Antenna Systems and Massive Machine Type Communications
Authors: Pereira de Figueiredo Felipe Augusto , Cardoso Fabbryccio A. C. M. , Miranda Joao Paulo , Moerman Ingrid , Dias Claudio F. , Fraidenraich Gustavo
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we identify issues and possible solutions in the key area of large-scale antenna systems, also know as Massive Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) systems. Additionally, we propose the use of Massive MIMO technology as a means to tackle the uplink mixed-service communication problem. Under the assumption of an available physical narrowband shared channel (PNSCH), the capacity of the MTC network and, in turn, that of the whole system, can be increased by grouping Machine-Type Communication (MTC) devices into clusters and letting each cluster share the same time-frequency physical resource blocks. We study the feasibility of applying sub-optimal linear detection to the problem of detecting a large number of MTC devices sharing the same time-frequency resources at the uplink of a base station (BS) equipped with a large number of antennas, M. In our study, we derive the achievable lower-bound rates for the studied sub-optimal linear detectors and show that the transmitted power of each MTC device can be reduced as M increases, which is a very important result for powerconstrained MTC devices running on batteries. Our simulation results suggest that, as M is made progressively larger, the performance of sub-optimal linear detection methods approach the matched filter bound, also known as perfect interference-cancellation bound.
Research Progress of circRNA in Epithelial Mesenchymal Transformation of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Li Zhuoya , Ding Xiaoyun , Song Haojun
Published: August 2019

With the continuous progress in modern medicine, the early detection rate of gastric cancer has increased, and the mortality rate has decreased. However, gastric cancer remains the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, with a high recurrence rate. Metastasis is the leading cause of death and recurrence of gastric cancer, which greatly hinders treatment success. Cancer development is a complex process involving multiple sequential steps. In the metastatic cascade, local invasion may be considered an initial, crucial step in the development of a malignant tumor, which leads to distant metastasis. Epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) is one of the most important developmental processes that occur during tumor invasion. EMT confers certain basic abilities to cancer cells, such as migration, invasion and anti-apoptotic ability, thus initiating and increasing metastasis. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that promote EMT and gastric cancer cell metastasis. A number of recent studies have found that circular RNAs（circRNAs）are associated with gastric cancer EMT, regulating the EMT process and promoting the occurrence and development of tumors. Because of their unique continuous circular structure, circRNAs have relatively high stability in plasma and cells, making them more suitable as diagnostic biomarkers in malignant tumors. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of circRNAs in EMT in gastric cancer is an important research direction to actively prevent tumor metastasis and improve the therapeutic effect on advanced malignant tumors.
Microplastic-Toxic Chemical Interaction: A Review Study on Quantified Levels, Mechanism and Implication
Authors: Wirnkor Verla Andrew , Ebere Enyoh Christian , Ngozi Verla Evelyn , Oharley Nwanorh Kieran
Published: August 2019

Current problem facing researchers globally is microplastics as well as toxic chemical pollution of the ecosystem. Microplastics carry toxic chemicals in the ecosystem.serving as a vector for transport. In this study, a review of the literature has been conducted with the following objectives: (1) to summarise the concentrations of toxic chemicals such heavy metals and hydrophobic organic contaminants sorped on microplastics; (2) to evaluate their spatial distribution regarding adsorbed contaminant (3) to discuss plausible mechanism by which microplastics adsorp or desorp toxic chemicals in the environment; (4) to discuss implications of their occurrence in air, water and soil media; and (5) to discuss the impact of ingested microplastics to human health. Microplastics are ubiquitous environmental contaminant. Concentrations of sorped toxic chemical varied with location which represents a local problem; industrialized areas (especially areas experiencing crude oil related activities or have history of crude oil pollution) have higher concentrations than less industrialized areas. Ingestion of microplastics has been demonstrated in a range of marine and soil organisms as well as edible plants, thus possible contaminating the base of the food-web. Potential health effect to human is by particle localization, chemical toxicity and microbal toxins. We conclude by highlighting the gap in knowledge and suggesting key future areas of research for scientists and policymakers.
New Evidence of the Bidentate Binding Mode in 3-MBA Protected Gold Clusters: Analysis of Aqueous 13–18 kDa Gold-Thiolate Clusters by HPLC-ESI-MS Reveals Special Compositions Aun(3-MBA)p, (n = 48 – 67, p = 26-30)
Authors: Black David M. , Hoque M. Mozammel , Plascencia-Villa Germán , Whetten Robert L.
Published: August 2019

Gold clusters protected by 3-MBA ligands (MBA = mercaptobenzoic acid, -SPhCO2H) have attracted recent interest for their unusual structures and advantageous ligand-exchange and bioconjugation properties. Azubel et al. first determined the core structure of an Au68-complex, which was estimated to have 32 ligands (3-MBA groups). To explain the exceptional structure-composition and reaction properties of this complex, and its larger homologs, Tero et al. proposed a “dynamic stabilization” via carboxyl O-H--Au interactions. Herein, we report the first results of an integrated LC/MS analysis of unfractionated samples of gold / 3-MBA clusters, spanning the narrow size range 13.4 to 18.1 kDa. Using high-throughput procedures adapted from bio-macromolecule analyses, we show that integrated capillary HPLC-ESI-MS, based upon aqueous-methanol mobile phases and ion-pairing reverse-phase chromatography, can separate several major components from the nanoclusters mixture that may be difficult to resolve by standard native gel electrophoresis due to their similar size and charge. For each component, one obtains a well-resolved mass spectrum, nearly free of adducts or signs of fragmentation. A consistent set of molecular mass determinations is calculated from detected charge-states tunable from 3- (or lower), to 2+ (or higher). One thus arrives at a series of new compositions (n, p) specific to the Au/3-MBA system. The smallest major component is assigned to the previously unknown (48, 26); the largest one is evidently (67, 30), vs. the anticipated (68, 32). Various explanations for this discrepancy are considered. A prospective is given for the several members of this novel series, along with a summary of the advantages and present limitations of the micro-scale integrated LC/MS approach to characterize such metallic-core macro-molecules, and their derivatives.
Insights from Molecular Dynamics Simulations for GPCR Drug Discovery
Authors: Zou Ye , Ewalt John , Ng Ho-Leung
Published: August 2019

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are critical drug targets. GPCRs convey signals from the extracellular to the intracellular environment through G proteins. There is evidence that some ligands that bind to the GPCRs activate different downstream signaling pathways. G protein activation or -arrestin biased signaling involves ligands binding to receptors and stabilizing conformations that trigger a specific pathway. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are especially valuable for obtaining detailed mechanistic information, including identification of allosteric sites and understanding modulators' interactions between receptors and ligands. Here, we highlight recent simulation studies and methods used to study biased G protein-coupled receptor signaling and their conformational dynamics. We also highlight applications of MD simulations to drug discovery.
Benthic Habitat Morphodynamics- Using Remote Sensing to Quantify Storm-Induced Changes in Nearshore Bathymetry and Surface Sediment Texture at Assateague National Seashore
Authors: Trembanis Arthur , Abla Alimjan , Haulsee Ken , DuVal Carter
Published: August 2019

This study utilizes repeated geoacoustic mapping to quantify the morphodynamic response of the nearshore to storm-induced changes. The aim of this study was to quantitatively map the nearshore zone of Assateague Island National Seashore (ASIS) to determine what changes in bottom sediments, benthic fauna and fish habitat are attributable to storm events including hurricane Sandy and the passage of hurricane Joaquin. Specifically, (1) the entire domain of the National Parks Service offshore area was mapped with side-scan sonar and multibeam bathymetry at a resolution comparable to that of the existing pre-storm survey, (2) a subset of the benthic stations were resampled that represented all sediment strata previously identified, and (3) newly obtained data were compared to that from the pre-storm survey to determined changes that could be attributed to specific storms such as Sandy and Joaquin. Capturing event specific dynamics requires rapid response surveys in close temporal association of the before and after period. The time-lapse between the pre-storm surveys for Sandy and our study meant that only a time and storm integrated signature for that storm could be obtained whereas with hurricane Joaquin we could identify impacts to the habitat type and geomorphology more directly related to that particular storm. This storm impacts study provides for the National Park Service direct documentation of storm-related changes in sediments and marine habitats on multiple scales: from large scale, side-scan sonar maps and interpretation of acoustic bottom types, to characterize as fully as possible habitats from 1 to 10 m up to many kilometer scales, as well as from point benthic samples within each sediment stratum and these results can help guide management of the island resources.
Expression of Serum PTTG1 in Laryngeal Carcinoma and Its Correlation to Prognosis
Authors: Ma Kunpeng , Sun Xiuxia , Ma Limin , Zhang Shenglin
Published: August 2019

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to investigate serum pituitary tumor transforming gene (PTTG1) expression in laryngeal carcinoma and its relationship with the clinical pathological characteristics and prognosis.Methods. Expression of serum PTTG1 was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 110 patients with laryngeal carcinoma and 60 patients with vocal cord polyps. Expression of the serum PTTG1 levels relationship with the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis were analyzed.Results. In laryngeal carcinoma patients’ serum, the PTTG1 median concentration was 141.43 pg/mL (interquartile range [IQR], 111.387 to 160.837 pg/mL), significantly higher than that of the vocal cord polyp group of 94.01 pg/mL (IQR, 81.26 to 108.59 pg/mL), and the difference was statistically significant (z=–6.715, P<0.001). PTTG1 expression with lymph node metastasis, clinical stage, and patients with laryngeal carcinoma was significantly correlated with the tumor differentiation degree (P<0.05). The total survival rate of the PTTG1 high expression group was significantly lower than the low expression group, and the difference of total survival time of the two groups was statistically significant (P<0.001).Conclusion. The PTTG1 expression level can be used as an index for evaluating prognosis of laryngeal cancer. High PTTG1 expression is one of the factors of poor prognosis of laryngeal carcinoma patients.
The Behaviour of Economic Agent in Islam
Authors: Al Hakim Muhammad Hanif
Published: August 2019

Abstract: Some notable economists believe that Economics is of normative science, which always focuses on the 'what should be' statement. Therefore it is included in the science of ethics, considering that it discusses an attitude of an individual in economic activity. Unfortunately, modern economics born from the womb of Western Civilization was influenced by Utilitarianism which is undoubtedly contradictary to Islam. This certainly will create problems in the future for Muslims, especially in economic activities both on an individual and social scale. This article will discuss how the behavior of an economic agent should be viewed by Islam. This research is qualitative in nature, using the methos of literature survey. The results of the study show that the correct understanding of Islam, the worldview of Islam, and the true nature of human beings and their actions will keep Muslim behavior as an economic agent from being trapped into un-Islamic behavior in economic activities. الملخص: اعتقد بعض الاقتصاديين البارزين أن الاقتصاد هو نوع من العلوم المعيارية، والذي يركز دائمًا على عبارة "ما يجب أن يكون". فمن ثم هو من علم الأخلاق، معتبرا أنه يناقش كيف يتصرف الشخص في النشاط الاقتصادي. لكن لسوء الحظ، تأثرت الاقتصاد الحديث المولود من رحم الحضارة الغربية بالنفعية التي تناقضت الإسلام بلا شك. سيؤدي هذا خلق مشاكل للمسلمين في المستقبل خاصة في الأنشطة الاقتصادية سواء على المستوى الفردي أو الاجتماعي. يناقش هذا المقال كيف يكون موقف الوكيل الاقتصادي وفقًا للإسلام. هذا البحث هو نوعي في الطبيعة ، وذلك باستخدام منهجية مسح الأدب ومراجعته. تظهر نتائج الدراسة أن الفهم الصحيح للإسلام، ورؤية الإسلام للوجود، والطبيعة الحقيقية للبشر وأفعالهم سوف تبقي سلوك المسلمين كعوامل اقتصادية من الوقوع في سلوك غير إسلامي في الأنشطة الاقتصادية. Abstrak; Beberapa ekonom terkemuka menyakini bahwa Ilmu Ekonomi merupakan jenis ilmu normatif, yang selalu fokus kepada pernyataan ‘apa yang seharusnya’. Oleh karena itu ia termasuk ilmu etika, mengingat ia membahas bagaimana sikap seorang dalam beraktifitas ekonomi. Namun sayangnya, Ilmu Ekonomi modern yang lahir dari rahim Peradaban Barat ini dipengaruhi paham Utilitarisme yang tidak diragukan lagi bertentangan dengan Islam. Hal ini tentu akan melahirkan masalah dikemudian hari bagi umat Islam khususnya dalam aktivitas ekonomi baik dalam skala individu maupun sosial. Artikel ini akan membahas bagaimana seharusnya perilaku seorang agen ekonomi dipandang oleh agama Islam. Penelitian ini bersifat kualitatif, dengan menggunakan metodologi survei literatur. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan kesimpulan bahwa pemahaman yang benar tentang Agama Islam, pandangan dunia Islam, dan sifat asli manusia dan perbuatannya akan menjaga perilaku Muslim sebagai agen ekonomi dari terjebak kedalam perilaku yang tidak Islami dalam beraktifitas ekonomi.
A randomised controlled trial of an educational intervention to promote Oral and dental health of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Mallekmahmoodi Maryam , Shamsi Mohsen , Roozbahani Nasrin , Moradzadeh Rahmatalah
Published: August 2019

Background

Diabetes is the most prevalent disease resulted from metabolic disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effect of training based on health belief model on oral hygiene-related behaviors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

This study was conducted as a quasi-experimental research on 120 patients with type 2 diabetes referring to a diabetes clinic selected through systematic sampling, who were assigned to two groups of control (N=60) and intervention (N=60). The data collection tool was a valid and reliable questionnaire based on health belief model which was completed for both groups before the intervention. Then, the intervention group received 4 sessions of training based on health belief model in one month and the same questionnaire was completed again after 3 months and the obtained data were analyzed.

Results

Three months after the intervention, awareness of the patients and perceived susceptibility, benefits, self-efficacy, internal cue to action and performance in oral hygiene-related behaviors had a significant increase in the intervention group (p<0.05) so that the performance of the intervention group was 2.16±0.71 before the training and significantly increased to 3.25±0.49 after the training (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Training the patients with diabetes based on health belief model and performing active follow-ups can enhance their skills in the field of oral hygiene-related behaviors. Also, control, monitoring and training follow-up is recommended during these programs.
The effect of low dose ketamine on postoperative quality of recovery in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery: a randomized, placebo controlled trial
Authors: Han Yuan , Zhao Zijian , Xu Qiqi , Chen Yao , Liu Chen , Zhang Fangfang , Gao Xing , Guan Huilian , Dai Mingsheng , Liu He , Cao Junli
Published: August 2019

Background: Intraoperative low dose ketamine has been widely studied for postoperative multimodal analgesia. However, the effect of low dose ketamine on postoperative quality of recovery in female patients undergoing breast cancer surgery has not been studied. The primary aim of this study was to assess the effects of low dose ketamine on postoperative quality of recovery in these patients using the 40-Item Quality of Recovery (QoR-40) scale. The second aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of intraoperative infusion of low-dose ketamine on chronic postoperative surgical pain (CPSP). Methods: In this prospective, randomized, double-blind trial, 100 patients planned for modified radial mastectomy were randomly assigned to one of two groups: control group (group C) and ketamine group (group K). After induction of anesthesia and before surgical incision, a bolus dose of 0.5 mg/kg ketamine or an equivalent volume of normal saline was injected followed by 0.25 mg/kg/h ketamine or normal saline infusions until skin closure. Postoperative recovery profiles, including the QoR-40 scores on postoperative day 1, numeric rating scale (NRS), and douleur neuropathique 4 (DN-4) questionnaire at postoperative month 3 were evaluated. In addition, patient characteristics, perioperative parameters, and safety outcomes were assessed. Results: Global QoR-40 scores on postoperative day 1 were not significantly different between both groups (p = 0.139). Of the five dimensions, emotional state and pain scores were significantly higher in group K than in group C (p = 0.044 and 0.023, respectively). At postoperative month 3, CPSP and neuropathic pain (NP) were not significantly different between groups (p = 0.259 and 0.959, respectively). The incidence of safety outcomes were similar between groups. Conclusion: Low dose ketamine did not improve overall quality of recovery or chronic pain in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery.
A novel method for observing proportional group awareness and consensus of items arising from list-generating questioning
Authors: Jandhyala Ravi
Published: August 2019

Background: Methodologies used to gain consensus among healthcare professionals, including variations of the Delphi technique and the RAND/UCLA appropriateness method, all force a consensus, corrupting the original opinion through the consensus-generating process. Furthermore, none assess knowledge awareness of the experts prior to the consensus process.
Methods: Four case studies about X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) are reported to demonstrate the principle of group ‘awareness’ of items, consensus and the concept of prompted agreement. The novel methodology consisted of two surveys: Round 1 was an item-generation round in which participants were asked an open-ended question. Responses to Round 1 were collated into themes and developed into mutually exclusive items. Item generating was also performed using systematic literature reviews when appropriate. Items generated were used to develop a structured questionnaire (Round 2) comprising statements for which each participant identified their level of agreement using a five-point Likert scale. All responses were analysed anonymously. Item awareness, observed agreement consensus and prompted agreement were objectively measured.
Results: The free-text responses to the item-generation round tested the awareness of specific concepts or items regarding setting up a European registry for XLH, the limitations of empirical treatment for XLH in children and adults, and triggers for treatment of XLH in adults. The four case studies showed different levels of item awareness, observed consensus and various degrees of prompted agreement. All participants agreed or strongly agreed with statements based on the most frequent items listed in Round 1. Less frequent items generated during Round 1 had various degrees of prompted agreement consensus, and some did not reach the consensus threshold of >50% agreement by the participants.
Conclusions: Observed proportional group awareness and consensus is a relatively quick process compared with the Delphi technique and its variants, providing objective assessment of expert knowledge and standardized categorization of items with regard to awareness, consensus and prompting. It offers the opportunity for tailored management of each item or concept in terms of educational need and further investigation.
The Effect of Distraction Techniques on Pain and Stress during Labor: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Amiri Paria , Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Esmaeilpour Khalil , Kamalifard Mahin , Ivanbagha Reyhaneh
Published: August 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of distraction techniques on labor pain and stress (primary outcomes), fear of childbirth, and length of delivery stages (secondary outcomes).

Methods

A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 68 pregnant women. Participants were allocated into two intervention and control groups by blocked randomization. Participants in the intervention group received distraction techniques in four sessions. Questionnaires of Fear of Childbirth (W-DEQ version A) and PSS once were completed before intervention and again at the 36th week for the W-DEQ and in the active phase for the PSS through interviews. The pain was assessed through VAS during active phase per hour. The length of delivery stages was recorded in the partograph chart. Data were analyzed by independent t-test and ANCOVA.

Results

The mean of perceived stress during labor in the intervention group was significantly less than that of the control group (AMD: -3.2; 95% CI: -0.8 to -6.0; P= 0.01). The mean (SD) of pain intensity was 6.2 (1.4) and 7.5 (1.4) in the intervention and control groups, respectively, which indicated a significant difference between the two groups (P<0.001). Although the mean score of fear in 36th week in the intervention group (29.1) was less than of the control group (39.1), there was no significant difference between the two groups (P= 0.170). Moreover, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of the length of the delivery stages (P>0.05).

Conclusion

According to the results, distraction techniques can reduce the pain and stress of labor, but further studies are needed to reach a decisive conclusion.
Effect of intraocular lens implantation on visual field in patients with glaucoma and comorbid cataracts
Authors: Zhao Can , Cun Qing , Tao Yijin , Yang Wenyan , Zhong Hua , Li Fengjie , Tighe Sean , Zhu Yingting , Wang Ting
Published: August 2019

The authors have removed this preprint from Research Square.