bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal urinary levels of trichloroacetic acid and association with adverse pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Mashau Funanani , Ncube Esper Jacobeth , Voyi Kuku
Published: November 2019

The current study aimed to determine the association between trichloroacetic acid (TCAA) levels and adverse pregnancy outcomes among third-trimester pregnant women who were exposed to chlorinated drinking water. A total of 205 pregnant women who participated in the disinfection by-products exposure and adverse pregnancy outcome study in South Africa were randomly asked to participate in this study by providing their morning urine sample voids. Samples were analysed for urinary creatinine and TCAA. Furthermore, participants gave individual data using a structured questionnaire. The mean (median) concentration of creatinine-adjusted urinary TCAA was 2.34 (1.95) μg/g creatinine. Elevated levels of creatinine-adjusted TCAA concentrations showed an increased risk of premature birth, small for gestational age (SGA) and low birth weight. There was no significant statistical correlation observed between creatinine-adjusted TCAA concentrations and the total volume of cold water ingested among the study population. No statistically significant association was observed between creatinine-adjusted urinary TCAA and premature birth, SGA and low birth weight newborns among the study subjects. However, the urinary TCAA concentrations identified in this study suggest potential health risks towards women and foetus. Therefore, further studies are warranted to prevent further adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Multi-drug resistance traits of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and other Staphylococcal species from clinical and environmental sources
Authors: Oladipo Adegboyega O. , Oladipo Oluwatosin G. , Bezuidenhout Cornelius C.
Published: November 2019

Multi-drug resistance traits of Staphylococcus species especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the clinical settings are well established. Of environmental concern is hospital effluents discharging into wastewaters. This article investigated the prevalence and detection of antibiotic resistance genes in Staphylococcus species from clinical and environmental sources in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Standard culture-based and molecular protocols were used. Seventy-six (27 clinical, 14 hospital effluent and 35 environmental) Staphylococcus isolates were recovered: 56.58% were coagulase-negative and 43.42% coagulase-positive (S. aureus). For the clinical isolates, 10, 6, 4, 4 and 1 were isolated from urine, skin, wounds, blood and pus, respectively. Isolates were resistant to methicillin and amoxycillin (91.7%), cloxacillin (88.0%), ciprofloxacin (84.0%), ofloxacin (83.3%), azithromycin (78.0%), ceftazidime (76.0%), gentamycin (75.0%), cefuroxime (75.0%) and erythromycin (72.0%). Nearly, all isolates (90.8%) had multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index >0.2. Overall MAR indices for Staphylococcus species isolated from the clinical, hospital effluent and environmental wastewaters were relatively similar (0.482; 0.500; 0.435). mecA, nuc and luk-pvl genes were detected in S. aureus, while mecA was detected in S. arlettae, S. sciuri, S. cohnii, S. epidermidis and S. saprophyticus. This study informs on the potential contamination of environmental waters downstream from hospitals and possible impacts that this could have on human and animal health.
Physical entrapment of chitosan in fixed-down-flow column bed enhances triclosan removal from water
Authors: Matolia Jyoti , Shukla S. P. , Kumar Saurav , Kumar Kundan , Singh A. R.
Published: November 2019

Triclosan (TCS) is an emergent pollutant with wide-ranging deleterious effects on aquatic organisms and humans. There is a growing concern about the development of low-cost and efficient treatment systems for the removal of TCS from water. This report describes the performance of a prototype of a continuous flow, fixed bed column device with physically entrapped industrial by-product chitosan. The effects of initial TCS concentration, adsorbent dose in the column matrix, and flow rate were investigated with regard to removal efficiency (%), adsorption capacity and breakthrough time. To understand the thermodynamic properties of the adsorption process, three kinetic models – Thomas, Yoon–Nelson and Adams–Bohart – were applied to the experimental data for the prediction of characteristic parameters of the adsorption process. The Yoon–Nelson model showed the best agreement between the experimental and calculated values. The column showed a near saturation state (Ct/C0 = 0.92; C0 and Ct are the concentration of TCS before and after treatment.) at 90 mg L−1 TCS concentration after 60 minutes. In view of non-availability of a treatment process for the emergent pollutant TCS, the data of the present investigation will facilitate the development of novel prototypes of column bed reactors for the removal of TCS.
Exosomes in Sepsis and Inflammatory Tissue Injury
Authors: Park Eun J. , Appiah Michael G. , Myint Phyoe K. , Gaowa Arong , Kawamoto Eiji , Shimaoka Motomu
Published: November 2019

:

Sepsis is the leading cause of death in medical intensive care units, and thus represents a serious healthcare problem worldwide. Sepsis is often caused by the aberrant host responses to infection, which induce dysregulated inflammation that leads to life-threatening multiple organ failures. Mediators such as proinflammatory cytokines that drive the sepsis pathogenesis have been extensively studied. Exosomes, biological lipid bilayer nanoparticles secreted via the endosomal pathway of cells, have recently emerged as important cargos that carry multiple mediators critical for the pathogenesis of sepsis-associated organ dysfunctions. Here we will review current knowledge on the exosomes in sepsis and relevant inflammatory tissue injuries.
Combined use of Genetic Polymorphisms and Elastographic Techniques in NAFLD: Fact or Fiction?
Authors: Lombardi Rosa , Fargion Silvia , Fracanzani Anna L.
Published: November 2019

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) includes liver diseases ranging from simple steatosis to
progressive forms characterized by high rates of complications and mortality, namely fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular
carcinoma. Identification of patients with simple steatosis who will evolve to a more severe liver disease
would allow better management of risk factors. Liver biopsy is the gold standard for the staging of NAFLD,
however given its invasiveness it is not widely applicable. FibroScan® has emerged as a reliable non-invasive tool
for the identification of both hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, by providing two parameters called CAP (controlled
attenuation parameter) and LSM (liver stiffness measurement). However, there is no consensus in literature on
definite cut-offs, and some drawbacks in differentiating advanced grades of steatosis and diagnosing mild stages
of fibrosis and are still present. In addition, some genetic polymorphisms, namely PNPLA3, TM6SF2 and
MBOAT7, represent critical determinants in the pathogenesis of liver steatosis and in the progression of liver
damage and could be used in this diagnostic setting. Despite data on the role of FibroScan® in the identification of
liver steatosis and fibrosis and on the influence of genetic polymorphisms in the onset and progression of liver
disease are extensive in the literature, very few studies have explored the role of their combination in NAFLD
diagnosis and in the prediction of evolving disease. This emphasizes the need for a great effort in this field in
order to improve clinicians’ diagnostic ability in everyday practice, avoiding invasive procedures when unnecessary
and preventing NAFLD complications.
A Retrospective Look at Anti-EGFR Agents in Pancreatic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Verma Henu K. , Kampalli Praveen K. , Lakkakula Saikrishna , Chalikonda Gayathri , Bhaskar Lakkakula V.K.S. , Pattnaik Smaranika
Published: November 2019

Background:

The introduction of Monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs) and small-molecule Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) that target the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), marks a huge step forward in the Pancreatic Cancer (PC) therapy. However, anti-EGFR therapy is found to be successful only in a fraction of patients. Although anti-EGFR agents have shown considerable clinical promise, a serious adverse event associated with anti- EGFR therapy has been challenging. At this juncture, there is still more to be done in the search for effective predictive markers with therapeutic applicability.

Methods:

A focused literature search was conducted to summarize the existing evidence on anti-EGFR agents in pancreatic cancer therapy.

Results:

This review discusses various anti-EGFR agents currently in use for PC therapy and potential adverse effects associated with it. Existing evidence on EGFR TKIs demonstrated better tolerant effects and outcomes with multiple toxic regimens. Anti-EGFR therapy in combination with chemotherapy is necessary to achieve the best clinical outcomes.

Conclusion:

Future prospective studies on the identification of additional biological agents and novel anti-EGFR agents are warranted.
Antiplatelet Effect of a Pulaimab [Anti-GPIIb/IIIa F(ab)2 Injection] Evaluated by a Population Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic Model
Authors: Liu Ya-Ou , Wang Zi-Ning , Chen Chao-Yang , Zhuang Xian-Han , Ruan Chang-Geng , Zhou Ying , Cui Yi-Min
Published: November 2019

Background:

Cardiovascular disease has one of the highest mortality rates among all the diseases. Platelets
play an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Platelet membrane glycoprotein GPIIb/IIIa
antagonists are the most effective antiplatelet drugs, and pulaimab is one of these. The study aims to promote individual
medication of pulaimab [anti-GPIIb/IIIa F(ab)2 injection] by discovering the pharmacological relationship
among the dose, concentration, and effects. The goal of this study is to establish a population pharmacokineticpharmacodynamic
model to evaluate the antiplatelet effect of intravenous pulaimab injection.

Methods:

Data were collected from 59 healthy subjects who participated in a Phase-I clinical trial. Plasma concentration
was used as the pharmacokinetic index, and platelet aggregation inhibition rate was used as the pharmacodynamic
index. The basic pharmacokinetics model was a two-compartment model, whereas the basic pharmacodynamics
model was a sigmoid-EMAX model with a direct effect. The covariable model was established by a stepwise
method. The final model was verified by a goodness-of-fit method, and predictive performance was assessed by a
Bootstrap (BS) method.

Results:

In the final model, typical population values of the parameters were as follows: central distribution Volume
(V1), 183 L; peripheral distribution Volume (V2), 349 L; Central Clearance (CL), 31 L/h; peripheral clearance(Q),
204 L/h; effect compartment concentration reaching half of the maximum effect (EC50), 0.252 mg/L; maximum
effect value (EMAX), 54.0%; and shape factor (γ), 0.42. In the covariable model, thrombin time had significant
effects on CL and EMAX. Verification by the goodness-of-fit and BS methods showed that the final model was
stable and reliable.

Conclusion:

A model was successfully established to evaluate the antiplatelet effect of intravenous pulaimab injection
that could provide support for the clinical therapeutic regimen.
Ecofriendly Ethyl Cellulose Microsponges of Citronella Oil: Preparation, Characterization and Evaluation of Cytotoxicity and Larvicidal assay
Authors: Sharma Ruchi , Kumar Nitish , Singh Sompal P. , Kumar Sunil , Rao Rekha
Published: November 2019

Background:

Citronella Oil (CO) was used by the Indian army as mosquito repellant to repel
mosquitoes at the beginning of the 20th century and later in 1948, it was registered in the USA for commercial
purposes. Due to its ecofriendly nature, CO possesses immense potential as a mosquito repellent.

Methods:

Citronella oil is a valuable alternative to synthetic mosquito repellents commonly used nowadays.
However, its volatile nature, poor stability in air and high temperature restrict its application. Its
direct application on skin may lead to skin irritation. To surmount the above-mentioned issues, the present
research aims to develop Microsponge (MS), a novel dosage form for enhancing the utility and
safety of CO. Quasi emulsion solvent diffusion method was chosen for crafting MS using ethyl cellulose
with various drug-polymer ratios and characterized. In vitro cytotoxicity evaluation was also carried
out to check the dermal safety of COMS.

Results:

The present results revealed that the size of all prepared formulation lies in the micro range
(20 ± 3 to 41 ± 4 μm), with good payload (42.09± 3.24 to 67.08± 6.43%). The results of FE-SEM depicted
that MS were spherical in shape with porous nature. Cytotoxicity results indicated that COMS
were safe on skin cells, when compared to pure CO. The optimized MS were also assessed for larvicidal
assay against larvae of Anopheles culicifacies.

Conclusion:

The CO micro-formulations were found to possess enhanced stability of this oil. Entrapment
of CO in MS resulted in a better vehicle system in terms of safety, stability and handling benefits
of this oil.
The Potential of PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling as a Druggable Target for Endometrial and Ovarian Carcinomas
Authors: Lengyel Csongor György , Altuna Sara Cecilia , Habeeb Baker Shalal , Trapani Dario , Khan Shah Zeb
Published: November 2019

Aims:

In this narrative review, we summarize the role and significance of PI3K-AKTmTOR (PAM) pathway in ovarian and endometrial cancers, providing the most recent and relevant literature on the topic and addressing options for targeting PAM along with future perspectives of drug development.

Background:

Alterations of the PAM-pathway are common in both endometrial and ovarian cancers, and are described in specific histology-defined subtypes. PAM seems to be involved in critical steps of endometrial and ovarian carcinogenesis, often mechanistically involved in the acquisition of a phenotype of treatment resistance, which could be targetable. However, early clinical trials with PAMinhibitors (PAMi) have provided disappointing results, particularly when non isoform-specific inhibitors were tested in unselected populations, accompanied by an adverse safety profile. Since then, more encouraging observations have been collected when targeting specific isoforms of PAM proteins with more selective drugs, resulting in encouraging activity and more manageable toxicity.

Conclusion:

Although the rationale of inhibiting the PAM-pathway has been demonstrated in several promising preclinical studies, no Phase III clinical trial is available to demonstrate a significant benefit of PAM-inhibitors. A way to manage targeted agents is to tailor their use to particular subpopulations most likely to obtain a considerable benefit, namely pursuing an individualized, precision-medicine approach.
Genome-wide Network-assisted Association and Enrichment Study of Amyloid Imaging Phenotype in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Li Jin , Chen Feng , Zhang Qiushi , Meng Xianglian , Yao Xiaohui , Risacher Shannon L. , Yan Jingwen , Saykin Andrew J. , Liang Hong , Shen Li
Published: November 2019

Background:

The etiology of Alzheimer’s disease remains poorly understood at the mechanistic
level, and genome-wide network-based genetics have the potential to provide new insights into the
disease mechanisms.

Objective:

The study aimed to explore the collective effects of multiple genetic association signals on an
AV-45 PET measure, which is a well-known Alzheimer’s disease biomarker, by employing a networ kassisted
strategy.

Method:

First, we took advantage of a dense module search algorithm to identify modules enriched by
genetic association signals in a protein-protein interaction network. Next, we performed statistical evaluation
to the modules identified by dense module search, including a normalization process to adjust the
topological bias in the network, a replication test to ensure the modules were not found randomly , and a
permutation test to evaluate unbiased associations between the modules and amyloid imaging phenotype.
Finally, topological analysis, module similarity tests and functional enrichment analysis were performed
for the identified modules.

Results:

We identified 24 consensus modules enriched by robust genetic signals in a genome-wide association
analysis. The results not only validated several previously reported AD genes (APOE, APP,
TOMM40, DDAH1, PARK2, ATP5C1, PVRL2, ELAVL1, ACTN1 and NRF1), but also nominated a few
novel genes (ABL1, ABLIM2) that have not been studied in Alzheimer’s disease but have shown associations
with other neurodegenerative diseases.

Conclusion:

The identified genes, consensus modules and enriched pathways may provide important
clues to future research on the neurobiology of Alzheimer’s disease and suggest potential therapeutic
targets.
Effects of Intermittent Hypoxia on Expression of Glucose Metabolism Genes in MCF7 Breast Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Jarrar Yazun , Zihlif Malek , Al Bawab Abdel Qader , Sharab Ahmad
Published: November 2019

Background:

Hypoxic condition induces molecular alterations which affect the survival
rate and chemo-resistant phenotype of cancer cells.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of intermittent hypoxic conditions on
the expression of glucose metabolism genes in breast cancer MCF7 cell line.

Methods:

The gene expression was analyzed using a polymerase chain reaction-array method. In
addition, the cell resistance, survival and migration rates were examined to assure the hypoxic influence
on the cells.

Results:

30 hypoxic episodes induced the Warburg effect through significant (p-value < 0.05)
upregulation of the expression of PCK2, PHKG1, ALDOC, G6PC, GYS2, ALDOB, HK3, PKLR,
PGK2, PDK2, ACO1 and H6PD genes that are involved in glycolysis, were obtained. Furthermore,
the expression of the major gluconeogenesis enzyme genes was significantly (ANOVA, p-value <
0.05) downregulated. These molecular alterations were associated with increased MCF7 cell division
and migration rate. However, molecular and phenotypic changes induced after 30 episodes were
normalized in MCF7 cells exposed to 60 hypoxic episodes.

Conclusion:

It is concluded, from this study, that 30 intermitted hypoxic episodes increased the survival
rate of MCF7 breast cancer cells and induced the Warburg effect through upregulation of the
expression of genes involved in the glycolysis pathway. These results may increase our understanding
of the molecular alterations of breast cancer cells under hypoxic conditions.
C-Methylation of Organic Substrates: A Comprehensive Overview. Part I. Methane as a Methylating Agent
Authors: Moulay Saad
Published: November 2019

A literature survey on C-methylation of organic substrates with methane as a methylating
agent is analyzed. Of the substrates that undergo C-methylation are benzene, naphthalenes, toluene,
alkanes, alkenes, acetonitrile, and other functionalized organic compounds. None of these methylation
reactions occur in the absence of a catalyst. A direct introduction of a methyl group on the carbon
sites of a molecule is concomitant with the formation of other products, as a result of either a
possible rearrangement or a further reaction with methane. Mechanistically, the C-methylation with
methane proceeds oxidatively. The products selectivities depend on several factors, mainly on the acid/
base character of the solid catalyst.
The Effect of ACT on Self-Esteem and Self-efficacy of Women with Breast Cancer in Iran
Authors: Daneshvar Masoumeh , Vakilian Katayon , Zadeh-Emran Akbar Hedayati , Zadeh Ramezan Hassan
Published: November 2019

Background:

Today, breast cancer is the second major cause of cancer deaths in women.

Objective:

The present study aimed to determine the effect of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) on self-esteem and self-efficacy of cancer adaptation behaviors in women.

Methods:

The present study was a randomized educational trial (IRCT Registration number: IRCT2016100430140N1) based on intervention and control groups including 30 patients with breast cancer who were referred to Cancer comprehensive center of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Sari 2017. The intervention group participated in ACT sessions for 8 weeks held as 8 sessions. In the control group, there was no intervention and only chemotherapy was carried out. Self-esteem and self-efficacy of cancer adaptation behaviors were assessed using Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale and Cancer Behavior Inventory before and after the intervention and one month later. Data analysis was tested by repeated measurement, ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc tests.

Results:

The mean of self-esteem before and after intervention and one month later was 13.46 ± 1.12, 16.86 ± 0.91, 15.86 ± 0.99 in ACT group, and 14 ± 1, 14.40 ± 0.98, 14.20 ± 1.08 in the control group, respectively (F(2,27)=11.90, P=0.001). The mean of self-efficacy of cancer adjustment behaviors before and after the intervention and one month later was 104.40 ± 20.19, 218.20 ± 15.32, 214.86 ± 16.97 in ACT group, and 96.86 ± 15.04, 97.06 ± 18.61, 94.53 ± 14.69 in the control group, respectively (F(2,27)=8.26, P=0.001).

Conclusion:

This counseling approach can be used as an easy, non-invasive and helpful method to increase self-esteem and self-efficacy among patients for adaptation to cancer.
One-Step Fabrication of Three Metals Zif and its Application for Adsorption of Levofloxacin in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Samadi-Maybodi Abdolraouf , Rahmati Afshin
Published: November 2019

Background:

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks with three metals Zn, Co and Ag (ZIF-3M)
and ZIF-67 were synthesized at room temperature and characterized with different techniques such as
FESEM, BET, EDX and XRD. Then, the synthesized nanoparticles were successfully applied for the
removal of levofloxacin from aqueous solutions.

Methods:

To optimize the significant factors (i.e., pH, adsorbent dose and contact time), the response
surface methodology (RSM) was implemented based on Box-Behnken design (BBD) in each step, an
appropriate amount of adsorbent was added to 30 ppm of a solution containing levofloxacin and the
pH was adjusted to the desired value with 0.1 M HCl or 0.1 M NaOH. The mixture was stirred at
room temperature and then centrifuged at 7500 rpm for 3 min.

Results:

The optimal conditions for each variable were performed using Box-Behnken design. Results
revealed that ZIF-3M nanoparticles more efficiently remove levofloxacin than ZIF-67 in aqueous
solution.

Conclusion:

In this research, new three metals ZIF (ZIF-3M) nanoparticles were synthesized with
Ag, Zn and Co in aqueous solution and characterized by different techniques. Results indicated successful
synthesis with preserving ZIF framework. Results indicated that ZIF-3M has more ability for
the removal of levofloxacin than ZIF-67. Isotherm studies showed that the most suitable model for
the adsorption of levofloxacin onto ZIF-3M has a good agreement with the Langmuier model.
Deglucohellebrin: A Potent Agent for Glioblastoma Treatment
Authors: Vartholomatos Evrysthenis , Alexiou George A. , Markopoulos Georgios S. , Lazari Diamanto , Tsiftsoglou Olga , Chousidis Ieremias , Leonardos Ioannis , Kyritsis Athanasios P.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Glioblastoma is the most common primary brain tumor in adults with a dismal prognosis.
To date, several anticancer agents have been isolated from plants. Helleborus odorus subsp. Cyclophyllus is
an endemic plant of the Balcan flora. Herewith, we investigated for the first time, the anti-glioma effect of deglucohellebrin
(DGH) extracted from the roots of Helleborus.

Methods:

We investigated the effect of DGH in U251MG, T98G and U87G glioblastoma cell lines. We selected
the T98G cells because of their inherent temozolomide resistance.

Results:

The IC50 value of reduced viability for DGH was 7x10-5M in U251MG cells, 5x10-5M for the T98G
cells and 4x10-5M in U87G cells during 72h treatment. DGH induced G2/M cell cycle arrest, caspace-8 activation
and significant mitochondrial membrane depolarization, suggesting the activation of the intrinsic, mitochondrial-
dependent apoptotic pathway. DGH and temozolomide induced changes in CDs’ expression in
U251MG and T98G cells. In zebrafish, DGH did not induce toxicity or behavioral alterations.

Conclusion:

The present study is the first to determine the anti-glioma activity of DGH. DGH may be a potent
agent for glioblastoma treatment and further studies are needed.
Cracking in Reinforced Concrete Structures Damaged by Artificial Corrosion: An Overview
Authors: Imperatore Stefania , Rinaldi Zila
Published: November 2019

Background:

Corrosion of the reinforcing steel is a significant issue in construction engineering. As the corrosive attack propagates, the oxides accumulated on the steel-concrete interface cause a radial internal pressure in the structural element and induce a tensile stress state in the concrete with the consequent cracking. Except for few cases, the main outcomes on the behavior of reinforced concrete structures damaged by corrosion come from experimental results on artificially corroded specimens. For many years, the scientific community has been discussing the feasibility of artificial techniques to simulate the corrosion process in structural element. Specifically, the most disputed method is the accelerated electrolytic corrosion test, often characterized by high current intensities in order to reduce the duration of the experimental surveys.

Objective:

In the paper the influence of the current density on the degradation of a reinforced concrete element is investigated with particular reference to the kind of formed oxides and to the crack width.

Methods:

An experimental survey on steel rebars embedded in concrete cylinders and subjected to an electrolytic corrosion has been performed, with different increasing current densities. Furthermore, an analytical model, based on the classical thick-walled cylinder theory already proposed by the authors, is applied for validating the experimental results.

Results:

The oxides produced by artificial corrosion with different current densities are analyzed with X-ray diffractometry measurements. The influence of the current density on the crack widths is also pointed out.

Conclusion:

The analyses of the obtained results show that for the analysed specimens and current density range, no significant differences are found for the oxides composition. On the contrary the influence of the current density on the crack width is pointed out, and an upper limit of this parameter is indicated.
A Novel FSK Generator Using a Second Generation Current Controlled Conveyor
Authors: Zahiruddin Syed , Srinivasulu Avireni , Sarada Musala
Published: November 2019

Objective:

The interest concern towards the development of enabling technology towards new current mode devices has forced the designers and researchers for the invention of devices, which has having the characteristics like such as low power, robustness, compactness, efficiency and scalability.

Methods:

Second Generation Current Controlled Conveyor (CCCII) is the prevailing current mode device of the times today. Since its invention by A. Fabre, it has prominent applications in the field of analog signal processing and in biomedical applications too. In this manuscript, CCCII is used as an enabling device to design a Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) Generator.

Results:

The proposed topology is designed using a single active device CCCII with least passive components. The circuit enjoys the features of like electronic tunability of frequency using the bias current.

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that the FSK generator circuit designed using single CCCII confers better results in contrast to the existing structures. The maximum power consumption is 0.196 mW. The proposed circuit has the benefit of simple configuration, which is very much proficient for IC fabrication.
Optimal Stochastic Gradient Descent with Multilayer Perceptron Based Student's Academic Performance Prediction Model
Authors: Ranjeeth S. , Latchoumi T.P. , Paul P. Victer
Published: November 2019

Introduction:

Educational Data Mining and Machine Learning Models gained more interest
among researchers and academicians in recent years. These are used to extract meaningful data
from the educational database can be applied to predict the student academic performance.

Objective:

The main objective of this research shows the capability to predict the student's performance
and is highly beneficial to take remedial actions in the present educational system. It also offers
suitable student assistance, allows an educational institution or teacher to help the students in
gaining extra marks.

Methods:

The presented model operates in two stages, namely classification and outlier detection.
Initially, a multilayer perceptron is employed for data classification. Later, a stochastic gradient descent
classifier and multi-layer perceptron are integrated to effectively classify the data. For further
improvement in the classification, Student academic performance, outlier detection method namely
radial basis function is applied to remove the misclassified instances.

Results:

The proposed model achieves superior classification performance with the maximum precision
of 79.30, recall of 79.30, and accuracy of 79.30, F-score of 79.30 and kappa value of 52.40 respectively.
The simulation outcome exhibited that the multilayer perceptron and stochastic gradient
descentmodel offers better results over the other classifiers. However, the usage of outlier detection
using the radial basis function model takes the classifier results to the next level.

Conclusion:

Using classification techniques a new student academic performance model is proposed
by addressing some issues in the existing model which is used to predict the student academic
performance assist inproper time.
Search for super early biomarker of multiple sclerosis using mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Ikegawa Masaya
Published: November 2019

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that affects the central nervous system. It is a lifelong condition with no cure, but it can be managed with treatments and specialists. For example, treatment can focus on accelerating recovery from attacks, slowing disease progression and managing
symptoms. Symptoms caused by MS include fatigue, visual problems, muscle spasms and stiffness, mobility problems, neuropathic pain and problems with thinking, learning and memory, among others. Professor Masaya Ikegawa is a researcher based in the Department of Medical Life Systems at Doshisha
University, Japan. His latest research project ('Search for super early biomarker of multiple sclerosis using mass spectrometry imaging') involves identifying biomarkers and therapeutic targets of MS through imaging mass spectrometry. His research also encompasses a broader spectrum of intractable
diseases, which are those that have mostly arisen through unidentifiable causes and lack established or curable treatments, including Alzheimer's disease, diabetic neuropathy and cancer, among others.
Long-Term Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Videoconference-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder in Japan: One-Year Follow-Up of a Single-Arm Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Matsumoto Kazuki , Hamatani Sayo , Nagai Kazue , Sutoh Chihiro , Nakagawa Akiko , Shimizu Eiji
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Face-to-face individual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and internet-based CBT (ICBT) without videoconferencing are known to have long-term effectiveness for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder (PD), and social anxiety disorder (SAD). However, videoconference-delivered CBT (VCBT) has not been investigated regarding its long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of VCBT for patients with OCD, PD, or SAD in Japan via a 1-year follow-up to our previous 16-week single-arm study.

METHODS

Written informed consent was obtained from 25 of 29 eligible patients with OCD, PD, and SAD who had completed VCBT in our clinical trial. Participants were assessed at baseline, end of treatment, and at the follow-up end points of 3, 6, and 12 months. Outcomes were the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS), Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS), Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ-9), General Anxiety Disorder–7 (GAD-7), and EuroQol-5D-5L (EQ-5D-5L). To analyze long-term effectiveness, we used mixed-model analysis of variance. To analyze cost-effectiveness, we employed relevant public data and derived data on VCBT implementation costs from Japanese national health insurance data.

RESULTS

Four males and 21 females with an average age of 35.1 (SD 8.6) years participated in the 1-year follow-up study. Principal diagnoses were OCD (n=10), PD (n=7), and SAD (n=8). The change at 12 months on the Y-BOCS was −4.1 (F1=4.45, P=.04), the change in PDSS was −4.4 (F1=6.83, P=.001), and the change in LSAS was −30.9 (F1=6.73, P=.01). The change in the PHQ-9 at 12 months was −2.7 (F1=7.72, P=.007), and the change in the GAD-7 was −3.0 (F1=7.09, P=.009). QALY at 12 months was 0.7469 (SE 0.0353, 95% Cl 0.6728-0.821), and the change was a significant increase of 0.0379 (P=.01). Total costs to provide the VCBT were ¥60,800 to ¥81,960 per patient. The set threshold was ¥189,500 ($1723, €1579, and £1354) calculated based on willingness to pay in Japan.

CONCLUSIONS

VCBT was a cost-effective way to effectively treat Japanese patients with OCD, PD, or SAD.

CLINICALTRIAL

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry UMIN000026609; https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000030495
La técnica Delphi para el rediseño y validación de un instrumento que mide la comunicación enfermera-paciente
Authors: Hernández-Corral S. , Müggenburg-Rodríguez Vigil M.C. , Olvera-Arreola S.S.
Published: November 2019

Introducción: La evaluación de la comunicación entre la enfermera y el paciente da cuenta de la dimensión interpersonal en la calidad del cuidado. Esta relación ha sido estudiada desde diversos enfoques con énfasis en algunos aspectos, como el diseño y validación de instrumentos.
Objetivo: Rediseño y validación de contenido de un instrumento que mide comunicación enfermera-paciente, con base en la técnica Delphi.
Metodología: Se enfoca al rediseño y validación de un instrumento, con la aplicación de la técnica Delphi, con la participación de enfermeras expertas, sensibles a la relación terapéutica; se realizaron tres rondas con integración de contenidos por las coordinadoras y la aplicación de los coeficientes de validación de contenido por reactivo (CVR) y validación de contenido integral (CVI).
Resultados: El CVI del instrumento en cuestión (CECOP-23) en la primera ronda fue 0.84, posterior a ello se eliminaron cuatro reactivos y se sustituyeron dos que fueron sugeridos por los expertos. En la segunda ronda el instrumento alcanzó un CVI de 0.95, el grupo sugirió la utilización de términos más sencillos que propiciaran la cercanía con el paciente. En la tercera ronda se obtuvo un CVI de 0.96. El CECOP quedó integrado por 21 reactivos, diez que exploran empatía y once que exploran respeto.
Conclusiones: El trabajo con los expertos permitió analizar los reactivos del CECOP-23, obteniendo el CECOP-21, con reactivos de mayor calidez y exploración más precisa, cumpliendo con el objetivo de diseñar un instrumento que explore ambas dimensiones manteniendo el equilibrio entre la empatía y el respeto.
Educación Interprofesional: un desafío para dar visibilidad a la contribución de Enfermería en los equipos de salud
Authors: Pérez-Etchetto M.
Published: November 2019

La Educación Interprofesional (EIP) en salud posee varias definiciones que se complementan y aportan diferentes enfoques. Según la OMS esta se define como: un enfoque de enseñanza y aprendizaje que reúne a estudiantes de dos o más profesiones para aprender juntos, con el fin de mejorar la colaboración y los resultados en salud.

La EIP surge como respuesta a los problemas actuales en los sistemas de salud y en la búsqueda de estrategias de enseñanza que regulen los cambios estructurales de los servicios y los procesos que implica el cuidado a la salud. Involucra una concepción integral y abarcativa del concepto salud que requiere la superación del modelo de formación de los silos profesionales y que conlleva a una reforma de la enseñanza en salud para la mejora del cuidado a la salud de la población; integra en ese concepto la necesaria conjunción entre la enseñanza, la investigación, así como el aporte a la sociedad a través del cuidado de la salud y la interacción con los equipos profesionales de los servicios sanitarios.
Contribution of Different Noise Sources to the Relative Instability of Laser Systems Stabilized by External Silicon Cavities
Authors: Kryuchkov Denis S . , Vishnyakova Gulnara A. , Khabarova Ksenia Yu. , Kudeyarov Konstantin S. , Zhadnov Nikita O. , Kolachevsky Nikolay N.
Published: November 2019

Here we consider creation of laser systems stabilized by external macroscopic monolithic Fabry – Perot cavities made of single-crystalline silicon operating at cryogenic temperatures. Fundamental thermal noise floor for fractional frequency instability was evaluated with its dependency on cavity’s spacer, mirror’s substrate and coatings material. Silicon cavities with dielectric SiO2 /Ta2 O5 and crystalline GaAs/InGaAs mirror coatings were created, its finesse at room temperatures was investigated. Two ultra-high vacuum optical cryostats were developed. Two ultra-stable laser systems based on cavities with dielectric mirrors were assembled. Comparison scheme via beat signal frequency counting was implemented for the characterization purpose. Different noise sources presenting at assembled systems are considered. Its impact to relative frequency instability of our laser systems is being explored.
Happy campers? The relationships between leisure functioning, serious leisure, and happiness
Authors: Kim Hyung Hoon , Park Inhae , Bae Jung-Sup
Published: November 2019

We examined the mediating role of serious leisure in the relationship between leisure functioning and happiness with data from 284 Korean campers, analyzed primarily using structural equation modeling. Results showed that the campers' leisure functioning had a positive effect on serious
leisure, and serious leisure had a positive effect on happiness. Further, the leisure functioning of the campers had an indirect impact on their happiness through the mediator of serious leisure. The findings showed that serious leisure plays an important role in perceived happiness in the
camping context. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Self-natural posture exercise and chronic pain reduction
Authors: Yoon Jiyoo , Choi Jungki , Shin Myoungjin
Published: November 2019

We examined the effects of the self-natural posture exercise (SNPE) program on changes in physical self-concept and perception of pain reduction among 114 individuals with chronic pain, sampled from a larger group of individuals who completed the SNPE program. Participants' physical
self-concept and perception of their level of pain were measured 4 times (baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks during the SNPE program). The effects of the SNPE on changes in these 2 variables were examined using latent curve model analysis. The program improved the muscle power, subjective
health, and flexibility subdomains of physical self-concept, and led to a decrease in perceived pain. The effect of the SNPE on perceived pain was greater for individuals who spent longer sitting each day, and who had suffered from chronic pain for longer. These findings suggest that the SNPE
program might be a useful method for the self-treatment of chronic pain.
SENSITIVITAS HAKIM TERHADAP PERLINDUNGAN NAFKAH ISTERI PASCA PERCERAIAN
Authors: Mansari Mansari , Moriyanti Moriyanti
Published: November 2019

Hakim memiliki peran strategis terhadap perlindungan nafkah ‘iddah dan nafkah madhiah (nafkah masa lalu) pasca perceraian. Hal ini dikarenakan perempuan seringkali terabaikan nafkahnya pada saat masih berada dalam ikatan perkawinan. Sensitivitas hakim terhadap perempuan di persidangan sangat penting agar putusan bermanfaat dan mengakomodir hak isteri mendapatkan nafkah ‘iddah dan nafkah madhiah pasca perceraian. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis sensitivitas hakim terhadap nafkah isteri pasca perceraian, peran hakim dalam merealisasikan nafkah isteri dan alasan hakim tidak memberikan nafkah isteri dalam putusan. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu penelitian hukum yuridis empiris dengan lokasinya di Mahkamah Syar’iyah Meulaboh dan Mahkamah Syar’iyah Aceh Tamiang. Bahan hukum yang digunakan terdiri dari bahan hukum primer, bahan hukum sekunder dan bahan hukum tersier. Analisis data dilakukan secara kualitatif kemudian dideskripsikan secara sistematis. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa hakim memiliki sensitivitas perlindungan nafkah iddah dan madhiah pasca perceraian. Sensitivitas tersebut dinilai dengan dua indikator yaitu upaya hakim dalam merealisasikan nafkah dengan menggunakan hak ex officio (kewenangan karena jabatannya) meskipun tidak diminta oleh isteri dalam gugatannya dan perealisasian nafkah yang ditetapkan dalam putusan dengan menunda prosesi ikrar talak sebelum dilunasi nafkah baik nafkah iddah maupun nafkah madhiah dalam putusan. Peran hakim terhadap perlindungan nafkah isteri yaitu Memberikan Gambaran tentang Hak-Hak Perempuan, melakukan sosialisasi terhadap hak-hak isteri, alasan hakim tidak memberikan nafkah kepada isteri disebabkan oleh dua factor yaitu intetenal dan eksternal: factor internal disebabkan Perempuan Tidak Mengetahui haknya, hanya meminta surat cerai, Isteri Marah Berlebihan suaminya, biaya eksekusi mahal, Anggapan Materialistik, Isteri Ingin Hidup Bersama Bukan Uangnya. Faktor eksternal yaitu hakim bersifat pasif, biaya eksekusi mahal dan aturan hokum tidak memberi kewenangan menggunakan hak ex officio (kewenangan karena jabatan) bagi hakim untuk memberikan nafkah madhiah bagi isteri.
PEMBINAAN IKLIM KASIH SAYANG TERHADAP ANAK DALAM KELUARGA
Authors: Nurbayani Nurbayani
Published: November 2019

This paper intends to provide an overview of the importance of affection for children in the family. This writing is based on the needs of children in their childhood because they have not yet perfect knowledge and mental readiness to live together with adults. Therefore parents have the task of providing education that can accommodate their instinctive natural needs. Children are God's mandate that needs to be given education. The process of children's education starts from the mother’s womb until adulthood. Parents have the responsibility of educating children in the right way in accordance with Islamic teachings. The main obligation is to instill faith in a child's soul. Muslim families who are builded on the basis of faith have the following identities: first, the righteous beliefs and to Allah SWT. Second, worship (al-ibadah ash-shahihah) in accordance with the shari'ah of Allah and His Messenger. And third, applying moral values (al-Akhlaqul karimah) in the family through education in the household. To realize the responsibility of taking care of children need several strategies.
KISAH (STORYTELLING) PADA PEMBELAJARAN ANAK USIA DINI DALAM KAJIAN NEUROSAINS PENDIDIKAN ISLAM
Authors: Suyadi Suyadi
Published: November 2019

Religious, inspirational, and motivational storytelling can develop hard a work ethic, and also cultivate spirituality that implicates the nation's progress. On the contrary, storytelling that "lulled" people will make the nation's generation become lazy, thus do not have work hard ethic. Children's stories in Indonesia are still contaminated with Isra'iliyat stories and contain trickery, even mystique, and sexual contents. Therefore it has implications for the nation's condition which is corrupt, adolescent free-sex, and rampant practice of political shamanism. This research examines the storytelling in Early Childhood Education in the study of the neuroscience of Islamic education. The research setting was conducted at Early Childhood Education institutions in Yogyakarta. This research was using a descriptive qualitative approach. Research data were children's storybooks and storytelling methods in early childhood learning practices. Elements of children's stories were analyzed in descriptive, interpretative, and comparative ways based on neuroscience learning theories, thus can be known which stories fit the brain work characteristics. The results showed that children's stories can be divided into three, which are robotic stories, the stories that could be damaging children's brain potential; academic stories, stories that could be emasculating children's brain; and scientific stories or neurostory telling, the stories that have the potential to optimize the children's brain.
Aktualisasi Dakwah Dai Millennial di Ruang Maya: Perspektif Etika Dakwah dengan Studi Kasus di Kota Medan
Authors: MG Nashrillah
Published: November 2019

This article presents the actualization of the preaching of millennial dai(preacher) group in cyberspace. The millennial da'i group is a young preacher who grows and develops together with advances in information technology, thus this group highly "dependent" on information technology. To understand the actualization of the millennial dai in cyberspace, several questions about the identity of the millennial da'i and the actualization of preaching in cyberspace were asked. This study found that the identity of the millennial was formed based on high "dependence" on social media, had a higher education level, and was actively involved in religious organizations. Whereas the actualization in cyberspace, especially social media like Facebook is done by self-actualization and actualization of preaching. Self-actualization follows the general developments on Facebook, such as selfies and narcissism and these become a common practice of millennial da'i. The actualization of preaching shows the shifting of preaching from something "sacred" to something profane, as well as there is an effort to use Facebook as a support factor of certain groups. Various expressions presented by millennial dai in cyberspace explain that the ethics of preaching or da'wah does not become a reference in the activities of preaching which has led it to experience disorientation from religious interests into economic interests.
ADVERSITY QUOTIENT: COMPLEMENTARY INTELLIGENCE IN ESTABLISHING MENTAL ENDURANCE SANTRI IN PESANTREN
Authors: Baharun Hasan , Adhimah Syafiqah
Published: November 2019

Intellegence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ) are not considered as dominant factors in determining a person's success. Another factor that determines a person's success or failure is strong ability to the difficulty of life, this ability is called Adversity Quotient (AQ). Pesantren becomes an institution that strives to build the mental endurance of students with Adversity Quotient (AQ).. The research method used is qualitative research by using a case study approach. This research was conducted at Islamic boarding school of Nurul Jadid Paiton Probolinggo. The results of the study shows that there are efforts to build the mental endurance of santri such as of 1) zone transformation 2) time management 3) systemic organization 4) resolving multicultural conflict 5) unlimited creativity.