bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UTILIZING VLOG IN YOUTUBE TO INCREASE STUDENTS’ INTERESTING IN SPEAKING ENGLISH LEARNING AT THE FIRST SEMESTER STUDENTS’ OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE EDUCATION UNIVERSITAS ISLAM SYEKH YUSUF
Authors: Isnaniah Isnaniah
Published: August 2020

This study aims to find out how Youtube contributes the development of students’ speaking English skill. The design used in this research was one group pretest and posttest. The population of this research is all of the students at the first semester of english language education in the academic year 2019/2020 which the accessible population is 84 students while the sample of this research was 30 students. It took by using purposive sampling technique because the writer chose the sample based on proficiency and the sample is suitable for the purpose of the research. The data collected in this reseasrch is quantitative data. The writer used a test to collect the data. Then, to know the noramility and homogeneous distribution or not, the writer used the normality and homogeneity test. From the result of test normality showed that significant value of pretest was 0.047, while the significant of value of post-test was 0.000. It means that the data is not normal distribution, it was because the significant value of post-test 0.000 were less than 0.05. The result of homogeneity showed that the significant score was .026. based on the testing criteria significant score < 0.05. It means the data is not same variant group. Therefore, the test of data hypothesis, the writer used non-parametic test, Mann Whitney test. Its result of test showed that significance score .000 was smaller than probability score 0.05. It was concluded that accepted. In other words there was a significant positive effect of using youtube as media to improve students; speaking english skill.
VALIDITY OF INSTRUMENTS AS MEASURING INSTRUMENT EVALUATION PROGRAM ON THE JOB TRAINING STUDENTS SMK NEGERI 1 CARIU BOGOR REGENCY
Authors: Sefrianto  , Badrujaman Aip , Komarudin Komarudin
Published: August 2020

This research is part of the preparation before evaluating On the Job Training program. The goal is to validate the instrument before used as a raw instrument to obtain field data. This research is carried out with quantitative approach. The data is collected by using questionnaire instruments to evaluate the impact of evaluation on the job training program at the behavior, outcome levels, and results. The instrument is tested on 30 respondents, namely Honda Putra Merdeka Cibubur, Honda Lestari Motor Cariu and Honda Citra Indah Jonggol. The test validity of the instrument using the product moment correlation formula. The results of the study show not all tested instruments are valid. Out of 35 instruments tested, 4 items of instruments are invalid. The instrument is in the dimensions of precision and work accuracy, increase in company revenue, and the level of curiosity at work. The result of the instrument validity concludes that the instrument that can be used to evaluate the on the job training program is as many as 31 items with the reliability value that can be received in a very good category of 0.928.
Evidence for a Long-Distance Trade in Bois D'Arc Bows in 16th Century Texas (Maclura Pomifera, Moraceae)
Authors: Bush Leslie
Published: August 2020

A piece of wood charcoal identified as bois d’arc (Maclura pomifera) was recovered from the Janee site (41MN33) in Menard County, Texas. The specimen has been directly dated to 400 ± 30 B.P., a period when no naturally-occurring bois d’arc stands are believed to have been present within 400 miles of the site. Bois d’arc ecology, economic uses of bois d’arc wood, and historical accounts of bois d’arc trade indicate the specimen is best interpreted as part of a trade item related to Caddo bow-making traditions in Northeast Texas and adjacent areas of other states.
A Precise Chronology of Middle to Late Holocene Bison Exploitation in the Far Southern Great Plains
Authors: Lohse Jon , Culleton Brendan , Black Stephen , Kennett Douglas
Published: August 2020

In regions on the margins of the Great Plains grasslands, documenting the intermittent history of bison exploitation has presented challenges to archeologists. Chronologies based on archeological associations have long been useful in regional research, but can be imprecise and of inadequate resolution for constructing precise sequences of prehistoric events. Here, we present a record of directly dated bison from archeological contexts spanning the last 6000 years on the very southern extent of the Great Plains. This study includes 61 specimens from archeological contexts that were dated by XAD purified AMS radiocarbon, with reported errors of only 15-20 14C years for most dates. The resulting record of bison exploitation for this area defines four main periods (Calf Creek, Late Archaic 1 and 2, and early Toyah) during which bison were exploited. Several dates also indicate an early historic presence of bison; this period may represent a late facet of the Toyah horizon. This study adds significant chronological resolution to the regional record of bison in parts of Texas and begins to help correlate cultural chronologies with important climatic data. It also points to the research value of obtaining additional directly dated bison samples from temporally and geographically diverse archeological contexts in our study area and beyond.
Archival Research of the History of the Francisco Flores Ranch
Authors: Ziga Adriana
Published: August 2020

The Francisco Flores Ranch, located northwest of Floresville, Texas, encompassed five sitios of land and one labor on the west bank of the San Antonio River at the paraje known as Chayopines. The Flores Ranch is one of the last surviving privately owned colonial ranches that have been identified in the San Antonio River valley containing standing structures possibly dating to the original date of occupation. I outline previous research on the property and offer new interpretations on the farm and ranch complex.
Fronteras autonómicas y áreas protegidas: un análisis de tres reservas de la biosfera en la interfaz entre Galicia, Asturias y León
Authors: Vila Lage Roberto , Paül Carril Valerià , Trillo Santamaría Juan Manuel
Published: August 2020

Durante las últimas décadas, se ha declarado un elevado número de áreas protegidas transfronterizas (APT). Una de las categorías más destacadas son las reservas de la biosfera transfronterizas. Estas APT suelen concebirse en el marco de las fronteras internacionales; sin embargo, estos instrumentos pueden ser también aplicados en el caso de fronteras internas      —entendidas, en este estudio, como los límites administrativos que separan las comunidades autónomas (CCAA)–. Este artículo procura trasladar las bases teóricas de la conservación transfronteriza a tres reservas de la biosfera situadas en el límite entre Galicia, Asturias y León. Se trata de la Reserva de la Biosfera de Río Eo, Oscos y Terras de Burón; la Reserva de la Biosfera de Os Ancares Lucenses e Montes de Cervantes, Navia e Becerreá; y la Reserva de la Biosfera de los Ancares Leoneses. A través de técnicas de investigación cualitativas, mediante la realización de entrevistas semiestructuradas a actores destacados de esos territorios, se analiza la percepción sobre el funcionamiento de esta figura. Esta investigación revela que la cooperación horizontal entre CCAA sigue siendo débil y que contar con dispositivos de gestión conjunta no garantiza el éxito en su funcionamiento.
The Shamiri Group Intervention for Adolescent Anxiety and Depression: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Lay Provider-Delivered, School-Based Intervention in Kenya
Authors: Osborn Tom Lee , Venturo-Conerly Katherine E. , Wasil Akash R. , Rodriguez Micaela , Roe Elizabeth , Alemu Rediet , G. Susana Arango , Gan Jenny , Wasanga Christine , Schleider Jessica L. , Weisz John R.
Published: August 2020

Background Developing low-cost, socio-culturally appropriate, and scalable interventions for youth depression and anxiety symptoms in low-income regions such as countries in Sub Saharan Africa is a global mental health priority. We developed and intend to evaluate one such intervention for adolescent depression and anxiety in Kenya. The intervention, named Shamiri (a Swahili word for ‘thrive’), draws upon evidence-based components of brief interventions that involve nonclinical principles rather than treatment of psychopathology (e.g. growth mindset, gratitude and virtues).Methods At least 400 Kenyan adolescents (ages 13-18) with clinically elevated depression and/or anxiety symptoms will be randomized to either the four-week Shamiri group intervention or a group study-skills control intervention of equal duration and dosage. Participating adolescents will meet in groups of 8-15, led by a high-school graduate trained to deliver Shamiri as a lay-provider. Adolescents will self-report primary outcome measures (depression—measured by the PHQ-8, and anxiety symptoms—measured by the GAD-7) and secondary outcome measures (perceived social support, perceived academic control, self-reported optimism and happiness, loneliness, and academic grades) at the 2-week intervention midpoint, 4-week post-intervention endpoint, and 2-week post-intervention follow-up. We predict that adolescents in the Shamiri group, when compared to the study-skills control group, will show greater improvements in primary outcomes and secondary outcomes. Discussion Results may suggest that a brief, lay-provider delivered, school-based intervention may reduce depression and anxiety symptoms, improve academic outcomes and other psychosocial outcomes in adolescents with clinically-elevated symptoms in Sub-Saharan Africa.Trial RegistrationPan African Clinical Trials Registry. Trial ID: PACTR201906525818462. Registered 12th June 2019.
Multi-measure assessment of adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy among children under five years living with HIV in Jinja, Uganda
Authors: Ssanyu Jacquellyn Nambi , Nakafeero Mary , Nuwaha Fred
Published: August 2020

Background: Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is required to achieve HIV viral load suppression. However, children under five years in Jinja, Uganda, had been shown to have low HIV suppression rates. This study aimed to determine the level of ART non-adherence among these children and the associated factors.
Methods: Data for the cross-sectional study was collected from April to July 2019, from caregivers of 206 children under five years living with HIV who were attending health facilities in Jinja and had been on ART for at least three months. Non-adherence was measured using a Visual Analog Scale that assessed both dosing and timing non-adherence, and by determining the Proportion of Days Covered by the medication. A questionnaire administered to the caregivers was used to collect the data, together with medical record review. A child was only considered adherent if they had adherence greater than 95% on all the measures. The data was analysed using Modified Poisson Regression, taking a p-value less than 0.05 as statistically significant.
Results: Of the 206 children, 73.8% were older than 2 years, and 52.9% were female. Likewise, the majority of caregivers were female (93.7%). Using the combined adherence measure, 57.3% of the children were categorised as non-adherent. School/day-care attendance, Prevalence Ratio (PR) = 1.25 (p = 0.042), the caregiver having higher than a primary school education, PR = 0.72 (p = 0.044) and satisfaction with the quality of service at the health facility, PR = 0.97 (p <0.001) were associated with non-adherence. Household food insecurity was also associated with non-adherence: PR = 1.55 (p = 0.011) for mild food insecurity, PR= 1.75 (p = 0.001) for moderate insecurity and PR = 1.48 (p = 0.015) for severe food insecurity.
Conclusions: Children under five years in Jinja had a high level of ART non-adherence. It is important to engage schools to support adherence among children living with HIV. Addressing household food insecurity and improving the quality of paediatric ART services would also reduce the barriers to optimal adherence.
An assessment of sensitivity biomarkers for urinary cadmium burden
Authors: Li Yuting , Wang Hongmei , Yu Jie , Yan Qiong , Hu Honggang , Zhang Lishu , Tian Tian , Peng Xianglei , Yang Shuo , Ke Shen
Published: August 2020

Background: Excess cadmium (Cd) intake poses a general risk to health and to the kidneys in particular. Among indices of renal dysfunction under Cd burden measures are the urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosidase (UNAG) and urinary β2-microglobulin (Uβ2-MG) enzymes. However, the end-pointed values and the Cd burden threshold remain controversial because the scopes fluctuate widely.Methods: To ascertain the clinical benchmark dose of urinary Cd (UCd) burden for renal dysfunction, 1595 residents near a Cd site were surveyed. Urine was sampled and assayed. A benchmark dose low (BMDL) was obtained by fitting UCd levels and index levels.Results: We found that over 50% of the subjects were suffering from Cd exposure as their UCd levels far exceeded the national standard threshold of 5.000 μg/g creatinine (cr). Further analysis indicated that Uβ2-MG was more sensitive than UNAG for renal dysfunction. The BMDL for UCd was estimated as 3.486 U/g cr (male, where U is unit of enzyme) and 2.998 U/g cr (female) for UNAG. The BMDL for Uβ2-MG, which is released into urine from glomerulus after Cd exposure, was found to be 2.506 μg/g cr (male, where μg is the unit of microglobulin) and 2.236 μg/g cr (female).Conclusions: Uβ2-MG is recommended as the sensitivity index for renal dysfunction, with 2.2 μg/g cr as the threshold for clinical diagnosis. Our findings suggest that Uβ2-MG is the better biomarker for exposure to Cd.
Arthroscopic treatment of synovial chondromatosis of hip joint
Authors: Liu Yufeng , Li Ji , Ma Ning , An Mingyang , Gao Feng , Hu Bo , Zhang Boqing , Wang Zhigang , Liu Yujie , Li Chunbao
Published: August 2020

Purpose：This retrospective study summarized the clinical, radiographic and arthroscopic manifestation of synovial chondromatosis (SC) of the hip, along with the post-operative effect to discuss the curative effect of arthroscopic management of hip SC.Methods: 21 patients underwent arthroscopic surgery from the same surgeon for hip SC were followed up for an average of 45 months. T-shaped capsulotomy was routinely performed in each case. Visual analog scale, range of motion, modified Harris Hip score and International Hip Outcome Tool score were collected preoperatively and at the time of the latest follow-up. All patients’ demographics, radiographs and arthroscopic images were collected to summarize and conclude the similarities and differences of their manifestation.Results: Large wedged-clumps of loose bodies demonstrated distinguishable radiographic, arthroscopic appearance and demanded different surgical strategy. Postoperative scores were all significantly improved. One case of residual pain and two cases of residual loose bodies with no symptom related were reported at the final follow up. All but one patients were satisfied with the outcome. Conclusion: Arthroscopy treatment of hip SC with T-shaped capsulotomy has demonstrated good result in terms of clinical outcome score, recurrence rate and complication rate. On the basis of this study, we concluded the clinical performance of large wedged-clumps of loose bodies of hip SC.
A Comparison of the Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Circumcised and Uncircumcised Adult Males in Rustenburg, South Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Iyemosolo Blanchard Mbay , Chivese Tawanda , Esterhuizen Tonya Marianne
Published: August 2020

Background South Africa has a persistent burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Male circumcision has been shown to be effective in preventing HIV, and STIs but data are scarce on the protective effect of circumcision in high-risk populations such as migrant miners. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of medical and traditional circumcision on the prevalence of STIs after adjusting for other risk factors in Rustenburg, a mining town in North West Province, South Africa.Methods This cross-sectional study used baseline data collected from a cohort study. Adult males in a mining town were assessed for STIs (gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis) using syndromic assessment. Data on circumcision status and other risk factors for STIs were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the independent effect of circumcision on STI presence after adjusting for confounders. Results A total of 339 participants with a median age of 25 years (IQR 22-29) were included in the study, of whom 116 (34.2%) were circumcised. The overall STIs prevalence was 27.4% (95% CI 22.8% to 32.6%) and was lower in the circumcised participants compared with those who were uncircumcised (15.5% vs 33.6%, respectively, p<0.001). Both medical (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.34-0.95, p = 0.030) and traditional circumcision (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.13-0.86, p = 0.022) were strongly associated with a lower risk of STIs after adjustment for employment and condom use. Conclusion In this high-risk population, with a relatively high prevalence of STIs, and 34% circumcision, both medical and traditional circumcision appear to be protective against STIs.
Comparison of oral health behaviour between dental and non-dental undergraduates in a university in southwestern China--exploring the future priority for oral health education
Authors: Li Mingming , Wu Zhiwu , Zhang Rui , Lei Lei , Ye Siqi , Cheng Ran , Hu Tao
Published: August 2020

Background: Based on a national survey in 2015, people’s oral health behaviour (OHB) has not kept up with the pace of knowledge and attitudes in China after decades of oral health education (OHE). Thus, we need to improve OHE to strengthen people’s OHB. Undergraduates are regarded as the best candidates for the improvement of OHE. The objective of this study is to determine undergraduates’ oral health status and existing problems in OHB by comparing dental and non-dental students at Sichuan University. We hope to provide some suggestions for future OHE to improve people’s OHB.Methods: A quasi-experimental study designed with a pre-test and post-test group was conducted. A total of 217 dental students and 135 non-dental students were enrolled. They were administered an OHE course focused on OHB. A survey about oral health behaviour and knowledge was conducted before and after the course.Results: According to the pre-course survey, dental students surpassed non-dental students in terms of toothbrushing frequency, method, and time, but unfortunately, flossing was overlooked by all the students. After the course, both dental and non-dental students showed strong willingness to improve their OHB. More non-dental students than dental students were willing to use toothpicks and Chinese herbal toothpaste before and after the course.Conclusions: OHE focused on behaviour has a positive effect on university students. Future OHE and interventions should focus on flossing, toothbrushing methods, toothpicks, Chinese herbal toothpaste and modifications to adopt new media.
NCMHap: A novel method for haplotype reconstruction based on Neutrosophic c-means clustering
Authors: Zamani Fatemeh , Olyaee mohammad , Khanteymoori Alireza
Published: August 2020

Background: Single individual haplotype (SIH) problem refers to reconstructing haplotypes of an individual based on several input fragments sequenced from a specified chromosome. Solving this problem is an important task in computational biology and has many applications in the pharmaceutical industry, clinical decision-making, and genetic diseases. It is known that solving the problem is NP-hard. Although several methods have been proposed to solve the problem, it is found that most of them have low performances in dealing with noisy input fragments. Therefore, proposing a method which is accurate and scalable, is a challenging task. Results: In this paper, we introduced a method, named NCMHap, which utilizes the Neutrosophic c-means (NCM) clustering algorithm. The NCM algorithm can effectively detect the noise and outliers in the input data. In addition, it can reduce their effects in the clustering process. The proposed method has been evaluated by several benchmark datasets. Comparing with existing methods indicates when NCM is tuned by suitable parameters, the results are encouraging. In particular, when the amount of noise increases, it outperforms the comparing methods. Conclusion: The proposed method is validated using simulated and real datasets. The achieved results recommend the application of NCMHap on the datasets which involve the fragments with a huge amount of gaps and noise.
Adsorption of Lead, Manganese, and Copper onto biochar in landfill leachate: implication of non-linear regression analysis
Authors: Zand Ali Daryabeigi , Abyaneh Maryam Rabiee
Published: August 2020

The feasibility of using wood-derived biochar (BC) to remove Pb, Mn, and Cu from landfill leachate was investigated and modeled in this study. BC was produced under the pyrolytic temperature of 740 °C. The effect of contact time, BC dosage and particle size on adsorption of the heavy metals onto BC was examined. BC was used in two forms i.e., pulverized (PWB) and crushed (CWB) to evaluate the effect of BC particle size on adsorption characteristics. The kinetics of Pb, Mn, and Cu adsorption onto PWB and CWB were assessed using the pseudo second-order and Elovich models, where both applied models could well describe the adsorption kinetics. Removal efficiencies of the heavy metals were increases by 1.2, 1.4, and 1.6 times, respectively, for Pb, Mn, and Cu, when PWB content of the leachate increased from 0.5 to 5 g L-1. Equilibrium adsorption capacity of the heavy metals onto BC in leachate system was evaluated using the Langmuir, non-linearized Freundlich, linearized Freundlich, and Temkin isotherms and found to have the following order for PWB: Non-linearized Freundlich > Temkin > Langmuir > Linearized Freundlich. The Langmuir and linearized Freundlich models could not adequately represent adsorption of the heavy metals onto BC, especially for CWB. The highest removal of 88% was obtained for Pb, while the greatest adsorption intensity was found to be 1.58 mg g-1 for Mn. Using the non-linearized Freundlich isotherm significantly reduced adsorption prediction error. The adsorption affinity of PWB for Pb, Mn, and Cu was greater than that of CWB in all treatments. Wood-derived BC is suggested to be used for the removal of heavy metals from landfill leachate as an economical adsorbent.
Weight maintenance interventions for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Sauchelli Sarah , Bradley Julia , Cox Jennifer , England Clare , Perry Rachel
Published: August 2020

Background: Weight loss maintenance is a challenge for people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), which attenuates the long-term benefits of weight loss for diabetes management. Medication, specific dietary requirements, and the psychosocial burden of T2DM signify that weight loss maintenance designed for obesity may not suit people with T2DM. The primary objective of this review is to comprehensively evaluate existing weight maintenance interventions for people with or at high risk of T2DM. Methods: We registered a protocol for the systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised and non-randomised weight maintenance interventions for T2DM. Studies included will have been carried out in adults with clinical diagnosis of T2DM or pre-diabetes. All intervention types will be accepted (e.g. behavioural/lifestyle change and pharmacological). The primary outcomes will be weight control, glycaemic control, and adverse effects. Secondary outcomes will include cardiovascular risk factors (e.g. total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, blood pressure control), psychological wellbeing (including health-related quality of life), change in glucose medication and waist circumference. Multiple electronic databases will be searched such as MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, PsychINFO and international registers (e.g. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, WHO ICTRP). OpenGrey will be searched for grey literature. Two researchers will screen all citations and abstracts. This process will also be conducted by an additional researcher using a semi-automated tool to reduce human error. Full-text articles will be further examined by the researchers to select a final set for further analysis, and a narrative synthesis of the evidence will be presented. Potential sources of heterogeneity will be assessed, and a meta-analysis will be conducted if feasible. Risk of bias will be evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the certainty of evidence using the GRADE (grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation) approach. Discussion: This review will critically appraise existing weight maintenance interventions targeting T2DM. Findings will inform future intervention development to support people with T2DM delay weight regain and prolong successful diabetes management. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO 168032
Determinants Of Adherence To Dental Treatment Of Socially Vulnerable Adolescents In Primary Health Care: A Cohort Study
Authors: Bulgareli Jaqueline Vilela , Cortellazzi Karine Laura Cortellazzi , Guerra Luciane Miranda , Ambrosano Gláucia Maria Bovi , Kaieda Armando Koichiro , Cunha Inara , Vazquez Fabiana Lima , Pereira Antonio Carlos
Published: August 2020

Background: Different studies with adolescents address the difficulty they have to adhere to oral dental treatments. Therefore, better understanding the processes involved in adherence to treatment in this population is necessary. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors that influence adherence to dental treatment in socially underprivileged adolescents in primary care. Methods: A longitudinal analytical study was conducted in Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil, between 2014 and 2015. The sample consisted of 1179 adolescents examined in family health units; of these, 474 were referred to treatment (40.2%) and 325 (68.6%) were reevaluated after 18 months. Adherence to dental treatment was the dependent variable. Independent variables were: individual (clinical, sociodemographic, access to the service, reporting pain, oral impacts on daily performance, family cohesion) and contextual (percentage of families in the neighborhood with income of 0.5 to 1 minimum wage). Results: Non-adherence to treatment showed high rate in the studied sample (49.5%). Family income (p=0.039) and number of individuals in the family (p=0.003) were associated with non-adherence to dental treatment. Conclusions: It is concluded that the adolescents’ social vulnerability condition resulted in situations that are incompatible with adherence, which hinders dental treatment and health service planning.
A novel signature of two long non-coding RNAs in BRCA mutant ovarian cancer to predict prognosis and efficiency of chemotherapy
Authors: Pan Yinglian , Jia LiPing , Liu Yuzhu , Han Yiyu , Li Qian , Zou Qin , Zhang Zhongpei , huang jin , Deng Qingchun
Published: August 2020

Background: In this study we aimed to identify a prognostic signature in BRCA1/2 mutations to predict disease progression and the efficiency of chemotherapy ovarian cancer (OV), the second most common cause of death from gynecologic cancer in women worldwide. Methods: Univariate Cox proportional-hazards and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to identifying prognostic factors from data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic curve was assessed, and the sensitivity and specificity of the prediction model were determined.Results: A signature consisting of two long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs), Z98885.2 and AC011601.1, was selected as the basis for classifying patients into high and low-risk groups (median survival: 7.2 years vs. 2.3 years). The three-year overall survival (OS) rates for the high- and low-risk group were approximately 38% and 100%, respectively. Chemotherapy treatment survival rates indicated that the high-risk group had significantly lower OS rates with adjuvant chemotherapy than the low-risk group. The one-, three-, and five-year OS were 100%, 40%, and 15% respectively in the high-risk group. The survival rate of the high-risk group declined rapidly after two years of OV chemotherapy treatment. Multivariate Cox regression associated with other traditional clinical factors showed that the 2-lncRNA model could be used as an independent OV prognostic factor. Analyses of data from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) indicated that these signatures are pivotal to cancer development. Conclusion: In conclusion, Z98885.2 and AC011601.1 comprise a novel prognostic signature for OV patients with BRCA1/2 mutations, and can be used to predict prognosis and the efficiency of chemotherapy.
Identification of pigments in artworks by inverse tangent derivative of spectrum and a new filtering method
Authors: Fazlali Fatemeh , KANDI Saeideh GORJI
Published: August 2020

Employing an economical and non-destructive method for identifying pigments utilized in artworks is a significant aspect for preserving their antiquity value. One of the non-destructive methods for this purpose is spectrophotometry, which is based on the selected absorption of light. Mathematical descriptive methods such as derivatives of the reflectance spectrum, the Kubelka-­Munk function and logarithm have been employed for the characterization of the peak features corresponding to the spectrophotometric data. In the present study, the mentioned mathematical descriptive methods were investigated with the aim to characterize the constituents of an Iranian artwork but were not efficient for the samples. Therefore, inverse tangent derivative equation was developed on spectral data for the first time, providing considerable details in the profile of reflectance curves. In the next part, to have a simpler and more practical method it was suggested to use filters made up of pure pigments. By using these filters and placing them on the samples, imaging was done. Then, images of samples with and without filter were evaluated and pure pigments were distinguished. The mentioned methods were also used to identify pigments in a modern Iranian painting specimen. The results confirmed these methods with reliable answers indicating that physical methods (alongside chemical methods) can also be effective in determining the types of pigments.
Exploring the Effect of Problem Based Facilitatory Teaching Approach on Motivation to Learn: A Quasi-Experimental Study of Nursing Students in Tanzania
Authors: Millanzi Walter Cleophace , Kibusi Stephen M.
Published: August 2020

Background: Currently, there has been a progressive shortage of not only the number of frontline healthcare providers but also a decline in the quality of nursing care. Reports about unethical and illegal practices, under standard care and malpractices, are not uncommon around the globe. There is a growing concern to rethink the approaches on how nurses are prepared, explore, and test novel approaches for delivering the nursing curricula. This study tested the effect ofthe Problem Based Facilitatory Teaching Approach on motivation to learn among nursing students in Tanzania, higher learning institutions.Methods: A pre-post test controlled quasi-experimental study of purposively selected 401 participants was conducted between February and June 2018. The Auditing Inventory developed by the researcher measured the intervention and Questionnaire titled “Motivation to Learn Strategies in Nursing”, was adopted to measure the motivation to learn, respectively. Statistical Product for Service Solutions software program version 23 was used to perform analysis. A descriptive analysis was performed to analyze sociodemographic. Regression analysis was performed to determine the association between variables. This study was not a clinical randomized controlled trial and thus it has not been identified in the title and no summary of trial design, methods, results, and conclusion.Results: Findings revealed that 65.8% of the study participants were males. The post-test findings revealed that 70.3% of the study participants demonstrated motivation to learn contrary to 34.9% at baseline. Participants in an intervention group were 1.720 (AOR) times more likely to develop motivation to learn than the control group (p<0.05; 95%CI: 1.122, 2.635). In contrast, the intervention was less times likely to enhance Extrinsic motivation to learn (AOR = 0.676, p>0.05, 95%CI: 0.405, 1.129) and Amotivation (AOR = 0.538, p>0.05; 95%CI: 0.283, 1.022) in learning among nursing students respectively.Conclusion: Problem-based facilitatory pedagogy had positive effect on motivation to learn including intrinsic motivation than conventional teaching pedagogy. Thus, the approach has educational potentials to positively change the spectrum of nursing competency and quality of care. Thus, the move to adopt a problem-based facilitatory teaching pedagogy among nursing training institutions in Tanzania is worth considering and needs to be continued.
A systematic review of interventions to increase attendance at health and fitness venues: identifying key behaviour change techniques
Authors: Rand Matthew , Norman Paul , Goyder Elizabeth
Published: August 2020

Background: Members’ attendance at health and fitness venues typically declines over the course of their membership, with a likely negative impact on physical activity and health outcomes. This systematic review sought to examine the effectiveness of interventions to increase attendance at health and fitness venues and identify the behaviour change techniques (BCTs) included in effective interventions. Methods: A systematic search of seven databases was conducted. The Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy was used to code the interventions. Cohen’s d was used to assess the effectiveness of the interventions. Results: Fourteen papers reporting 20 interventions were included in the review. Most interventions were found to have trivial or small effects on attendance, although one had a medium effect (d = 0.60) and three had a large effect (ds = 1.00, 1.37, 1.45). The interventions used a limited range of BCTs, with “Prompts/Cues” being the most frequently used. Of the interventions with large effect sizes, two used “Problem solving” and “Pros and cons” and one used “Goal setting (behaviour)” and “Review behaviour goals”. Conclusions: Only a small number of studies have tested interventions to increase attendance at health and fitness venues, with predominantly trivial or small effects. With the possible exception of problem solving alongside decisional balance and goal setting alongside reviewing behaviour goals, there is little evidence for the effectiveness of specific BCTs. Further research is required to identify the key components of effective interventions to increase attendance at health and fitness venues.
Correlation Between Serum Parathormone Levels With Urinary Magnesium Excretion In Patients With Non-Dialytic Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Dias Raimunda Sheyla Carneiro , Brito Dyego José Araújo , Lages Joyce Santos , Santos Alcione Miranda , Santos Elisangela Milhomen , Costa Rayanna Cadilhe , Furtado Elane Viana , Santos Elton Jonh Freitas , Carneiro Erika Cristina , Fontenele Andrea Martins , Diniz Maria Célia , Barbosa Carla Déa , Muniz Alessandra Costa , França Ana Karina Teixeira , Salgado-Filho Natalino , Araújo Denizar Vianna , Bernardo-Filho Mario
Published: August 2020

Background: Disorders of mineral metabolism occur in most patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of this work was to correlate serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels with urinary magnesium excretion in patients with non-dialysis CKD.Methods: Cross-sectional study with patients with CKD undergoing non-dialysis treatment in stages 3A, 3B and 4. Concentrations of creatinine, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were determined in blood samples. The assessment of urinary magnesium levels was performed by means of total daily excretion and by the excretion fraction (FEMg). Results: The study evaluated 163 patients with a mean age of 60.7 ± 11.7 years and 51.0% were male. In the highest quartile of PTH (> 89.5pg / ml), the mean levels of FEMg and ALP were higher (p <0.05), as well as the levels of serum calcium and eGFR were lower (p <0.05). In the unadjusted regression analysis, the following variables were related to serum PTH levels: FEMg (odds ratio (OR) = 1.12; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.02–1.23), Calcium (OR = 0.45; 95% CI: 0.22-0.90), ALP (OR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.00-1.03) and eTFG (OR = 0.92; 95% CI: 1.00-1.03). After an adjusted analysis, only one FEMg and ALP will remain correlated with PTH. Conclusion: In patients with non-dialysis CKD, with higher levels of PTH, higher mean columns of ALP and FEMg, and lower levels of serum calcium and eGFR. FEMg and ALP were some variables that remained associated with PTH.
Effect of the Electrode Array-Retina Gap Distance on Visual Function in Patients with the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis
Authors: Naidu Abhishek , Ghani Nimra , Yazdanie Mohammad Saad , Chaudhary Khurram
Published: August 2020

Background: Post-implantation visual outcomes in patients with the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis is dependent on a multitude of factors including the positioning of the electrode array on the retina. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the average electrode array-retina gap distance correlates with objective visual function outcomes and sensitivity detection thresholds in patients implanted with the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis. Methods: 5 patients with implantation of the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis were enrolled in this single-institution retrospective study. Patient demographics were collected from medical records. Visual function data (Square Localization [SL] and Direction of Motion [DOM]) and Optical Coherence Tomography (Cirrus HD-OCT) images were extracted retrospectively from the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis Post-Approval study. Visual function tests were performed with the device OFF and ON at each study visit. Electrode array-retina gap distances were measured at each of the array’s 60 electrodes using the Cirrus HD-OCT software in both the nasotemporal and superoinferior planes. Data was obtained at baseline, and post-operative month 1, month 3, month 6, and year 1. Sensitivity detection thresholds were obtained at the initial programming visit and each reprogramming session. Results: 1 of 53 patients had a significant average improvementperformed significantly better in the SL visual function test and 0 of 5 had a significant average improvement in the DOM visual when the testing with the device was ON compared to OFF (p < 0.05). Electrode array-retina gap distance did not show a significant correlation with changes in SL . Patients that worsened in visual function (r = 0.20; p = > 0.05) or DOM visual function (r = -0.18; p = > 0.05). In addition,testing with the device ON in both SL and DOM testing had a statistically significant decrease in performance. The electrode array-retina gap distance did not show a significant correlation with was found to effect performance in SL testing in a patient-dependent manner. No effect was found between the electrode-array gap distance and DOM testing or sensitivity detection threshold (r = -0.01; p = 0.98).. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that the average electrode array-retina gap distance does not correlate with changes in objectivemay affect visual acuity function or sensitivity detection thresholdsoutcomes in SL testing in a cohort ofcertain patients implanted with the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis. Therefore, and the direction and magnitude of this effect is likely patient-dependent. Furthermore, complete apposition between the electrode array and retina may not always be necessary to achieve optimal visual outcomes.
Investigation of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency prevalence in a Plasmodium vivax-endemic area in the Republic of Korea (ROK)
Authors: Lee Wonsig , Lee Sang-Eun , Lee Min Jun , Noh Kyung Tae
Published: August 2020

Background
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the most prevalent inborn disorder. This X-chromosome-linked recessive disease affects more than 400 million people globally, and is associated with haemolytic anaemia after medication with the anti-latent malaria drug, primaquine. To prevent malaria, the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army administers malaria chemoprophylaxis. Due to the previously low G6PD deficiency prevalence in the ROK, prior to primaquine administration, testing for G6PD deficiency was not mandatory. In this study, to evaluate the risk from malaria chemoprophylaxis in the ROK, G6PD deficiency prevalence was investigated.

Methods
Blood specimens from 1,632 soldiers entering training camp for the 3 rd Infantry of the ROK Army were collected. CareStart™ Biosensor for G6PD and haemoglobin (Hb) was used to detect G6PD levels. G6PD variants using the DiaPlexC G6PD Genotyping kit (Asian type) and full-length sequencing were examined.
Results
Of 1,632 blood specimens tested, none was observed to be G6PD deficient. The median value of all tested samples was 7.582 U/g Hb. An investigation of 170 G6PD DNA variants was analysed and categorized as partially low normal [n = 131, 30–80% (2.27–6.05 U/g Hb)of the median value], high [n=3, >150% (>11.373 U/g Hb) of the median value], or normal [n = 36, 80–150% (6.05–11.373 U/g Hb) of the median value], and none was amplified by the DiaPlexC kit. Five silent mutations (C→T) in 38 partially abnormal specimens were found at the 1,311th nucleotide position by sequence analysis. Another 8 silent mutations (T93C) were also detected in 131 partially low normal specimens. Thus, it is inferred that these silent mutations could be related to G6PD activity.
Conclusions
This G6PD deficiency prevalence study, conducted among participants from the 3 rd Infantry of the ROK Army, provided crucial evidence for the safety of malaria chemoprophylaxis. This study showed found that the prevalence of G6PD deficiency among 1,632 young soldiers was wholly absent. Although G6PD phenotypic mutations were not detected, many silent mutations (C1311T and T93C) were observed. Thus, it is inferred that malaria chemoprophylaxis is relatively safe against G6PD deficiency-mediated haemolytic anaemia. However, given the number of individuals whose G6PD were at the low end of the normal range and the frequent detection of G6PD deficiency-related mutations, consistent monitoring of G6PD deficiency is needed.
Keywords : Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, Prevalence, Single nucleotide polymorphism, Primaquine
Anopheles gambiae attraction to floral and human-skin-based odours and their combination is modulated by previous bloodmeal experience
Authors: KEMIBALA ELISON ELIEZA , Mafra-Neto Agenor , Saroli Jesse , Silva Rodrigo , Philbert Anitha , Ng’habi Kija , Foster Woodbridge A , Dekker Teun , Mboera Leonard E.G.
Published: August 2020

Background: Mosquitoes use odours to find energy resources, blood hosts and oviposition sites. These odour sources are normally spatio-temporally segregated in a mosquito’s life history. This study was carried out to determine the attractiveness of Anopheles gambiae to flower- and human-mimicking synthetic volatiles.Methods: This study was carried out in Muheza District in northeast of Tanzania. Anopheles gambiae s.s. Kisumu strain was used in all experiments. The chemicals/odour blends used were Vectrax, skin lure and the combination thereof. The attractiveness of Vectrax and Skin Lure were compared to each other in an insectary and semi-field settings. Semi-field experiments were then conducted using mosquito-spheres. In the two settings, parous or non-parous female mosquitoes, were simultaneously offered four treatments: Skin Lure, Vectrax, a combination of the two, and a control (no attractant). Results: In the insectary nulliparous and parous mosquitoes preferred skin odours and combinations thereof over floral odours. However, in semi-field settings significantly more nulliparous mosquitoes more caught with floral odours, whereas no differences were observed for parous females. Combining floral and human volatiles did not augment attractiveness.Conclusions: Nulliparous and parous An. gambiae s.s. are attracted to combinations of odours derived from floral and human volatiles. However, combinations of floral and skin odours did not augment attraction in semi-field settings, in spite of the fact that these blends activate distinct sets of sensory neurons. Instead, mosquito preference appeared to be modulated by blood meal experience from floral to a more generic attraction to odour blends. Results are discussed both from an odour coding, as well as from an application perspective.
Pre-clinical Evaluation of a Variable Length and Conforming Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Weighted Anchor: In Vitro Analysis and Cadaver Feasibility Study
Authors: Morris Christopher Scott , Johnston Gregory P. , DeSarno Michael J. , Badireddy Appala Raju
Published: August 2020

Purpose Peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheters function best when residing within the retrovesical space of the peritoneal cavity, but they frequently migrate and fail. A novel variable length and conforming PD catheter weighted anchor to prevent migration has been evaluated.Methods Test devices were placed in normal saline for 21 months. The effluent was periodically measured for heavy metals, including tungsten. The water-tight property of the device was also tested separately. Four cadavers were subjected to three-dimensional imaging and maneuvering to evaluate percutaneous insertion, function, stability within the retrovesical space, and percutaneous retrievability in 10 test devices.Results Liquid leakage was low, with a mean absorbance of the test device effluent saline of 0.015. Mean methylene blue absorbance of the test device was significantly lower than the positive control (p-value = 0.01). Leakage of tungsten from devices made with medical grade Silastic tubing was also low, with a mean of 0.362 mg/L in the effluent saline, compared to a background concentration of 0.166 mg/L. Each test device was successfully inserted into the retrovesical space and retrieved percutaneously and remained completely intact following placement and insertion. No test device migrated as shown on axial cone beam CT imaging. Mean flow times and volumes were satisfactory at 3 minutes and 0.92L, respectively, for all test devices. For all catheters, the mean flow rate was 312 cc/min. No significant difference was found between the pre-roll and post-roll mean flow rates of the test devices (p-value = 0.35).Conclusion This PD catheter weighted anchor showed stability, with minimal leakage of tungsten. All test devices were successfully inserted and retrieved percutaneously, with no damage or migration, and mean flow rates were satisfactory. Further investigation is warranted.