bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengembangan Game Based Learning Materi Grammar Bahasa Inggris Dalam Kurikulum 2013 Kelas X SMA Negeri 3 Sragen
Authors: Setiawan Budi , Suryani Nunuk , Suharno Suharno
Published: October 2019

This Research is aimed to test the effectiveness of game-based learning multimedia in order to improve student learning outcomes on English subject with the tpic of grammar in the classroom. The research development of multimedia game-based learning using the procedure of Raiser and Demsey consisting of 8 stages namely:1) Analysis, 2) Design 3) Development. 4) Implement, 5) Evaluate. The trial of product development tested had passed several processes covering; the review from media’s expert which includes software changes and visual communication, the review from content’s expert covers material and instructional design, students’ responses towards products’ usage and attractiveness, small group and big group test trial. The results of the feasibility test of a team of experts covering media expert results obtained 4,7 categorized as very good and content experts 4,7 which is at a range of very good category. After the product is revised based on the experts’ input, it is tried and tested to the trial class students at a small group scope with the result of 4,6 for their responses to the product and improving score from the pretest which is 52,11 to be 67,55. Next, at the large scale trial at the experiment class to see the effectiveness of the game based learning multimedia shows that there is a difference on the student’s learning result.  On the pretest of control class, the score is 56.00 and the final score in the posttest of the same class is 64,43.if it is compared with the pretest score from the experiment class, the score is lower which is 55.90, but it improves rapidly on the posttest after being treated with multimedia game based learning and come to score 71.65 with the significant value 0.05. thus, it can be said that the result of the development of multimedia game-based learning is effective to improve students learning outcomes.
Pengembangan Model Aplikasi Simulator Kamera Video Berbasis Android Untuk Mata Kuliah Sinematografi Pembelajaran
Authors: Triluqman Heri , Mulyoto Mulyoto , Sutimin Leo Agung
Published: October 2019

Integrating information and communication technology (ICT) in the learning process continues to evolve with various patterns and strategies, grouped into (1) e-Learning system, the process of learning that utilizes electronic devices and digital media, and (2) m- Learning, or mobile learning, the process of learning that utilizes mobile communication technology and devices. The rapid development of mobile devices, relatively easy operations, and more affordable prices, is a supporting factor in the widespread use of mobile learning to become a new alternative of learning media. These conditions encourage the formation of learning paradigm that can be done anytime and anywhere. The aim of the research is to develop the design/model of an Android-based Camcorder Simulator Application for the students of cinematography courses majoring education technology of education faculty in Semarang State University. This research method refers to the research and development (R&D) proposed by Borg and Gall (in Sukmadinata, 2016) with some modifications that have been developed by Sukmadinata. Withal, the research procedures used in this study focus on the development stages of application model/design. This step includes the following steps; (1) Model development (product design), (2) Design validation, and (3) Design revisions. The results of this study indicate that the process of developing an android-based camcorder simulator application model is done through the steps according to the research procedures, beginning with requirement analysis, then compiling competency map, material map, the main point of media content (GBIM), material descriptions (JM), flowchart and script, then design validation and product revision. Modeling camcoder simulator application is also ready for further stage of research and development. The use of an android-based camcorder simulator application is demanded in the learning process of cinematography course, especially the engineering material and the shooting procedure as it can assist students to be autonomous learners.
SELF-EFFICACY: STAIRCASE TO THE INTENTION OF EMPLOYEESâ€™ TURNING-OVER
Authors: Anwar Johansyah , R. Madhakomala R. Madhakomala
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study is to explore and to analyze the impact of self efficacy to employees, mostly considered as those performing ones who have their own certain level of self efficacy, and its effect to turnover intention.Attempting to assess the influence of self efficacy on the intention of individuals to leave the organization, it is observed that individuals having high level of self-efficacy, though reveal in such a positive effect in their cooperation to attain the objectives of the organization, appears to be one among the reasons why they intend to leave the organization and to look for entering a new one.The writer has put his best effort to identify the main implications of self efficacy of employees and following up to increase the level of motivation to more perform in such an efficient and effective manner, and at the same time to minimize employee turnover. It is all for the sake of retaining those employees with high level of self efficacy for the well-being of the organization to achieve its sustainable corporate competitive advantage.Keywords: self efficacy, employee turnover intention.
O Princípio do Melhor Interesse e a nova Condição Jurídica de Crianças Refugiadas Separadas ou Desacompanhadas: uma abordagem sobre Brasil e Itália
Authors: Conte Mariana Silva , Mendonça Paulo Roberto Soares
Published: October 2019

O artigo pretende abordar o tratamento conferido por Brasil e Itália às crianças refugiadas separadas ou desacompanhadas, por meio de seus respectivos documentos normativos. Nesse contexto, o presente trabalho apresenta, preliminarmente, o reconhecimento do sentimento de infância e a consolidação do princípio do melhor interesse da criança pela Convenção das Nações Unidas sobre Direitos da Criança de 1989. Além disso, trata da regulamentação do instituto do refúgio e sua aplicação aos menores de 18 (dezoito) anos. Posteriormente, busca demonstrar as inovações estabelecidas pela lei italiana nº47/2017 (Lei Zampa) e pela Resolução Conjunta de 09 de agosto de 2017 no Brasil, especificando os principais pontos regulamentados. Por fim, conclui-se que, apesar de haver, no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro, leis que abordem a temática do refúgio, há a necessidade de implementação de uma legislação específica que reconheça expressamente os direitos de crianças nessas condições, nos moldes do caso italiano. Para a elaboração deste estudo fora empregado o método de revisão bibliográfica, a partir da utilização de obras e artigos concernentes à literatura especializada nas áreas do Direito e da Ciência Política, bem como o método de análise de documentos oriundos de diversos órgãos nacionais e internacionais que versam sobre a temática exposta.
Haitianos no Paraná (Brasil) em 2018: estratégias em momento de crise
Authors: Pereda Lorena , Marchioro Pedro , Cavalcanti Leonardo , De Oliveira Márcio
Published: October 2019

O presente artigo insere-se no conjunto de estudos sobre fluxos migratórios e inserção sócioeconômica de migrantes no contexto latino-americano. A análise apresentada diz respeito à pesquisa realizada durante o mês de agosto de 2018, junto a 29 imigrantes haitianos residentes na cidade de Curitiba (PR) e seu entorno. Através da aplicação de entrevistas semi-estruturadas e da organização de grupo focal sobre migração e inserção socioeconômica, apresentamos uma discussão sobre os modos de fazer desses imigrantes frente a crise econômica e de emprego que o Brasil experimenta desde 2015. Investigamos de forma específica como esse grupo de imigrantes vem enfrentando reveses sociais e econômicos – desemprego, moradia e perspectivas futuras - incluindo aí os constrangimentos sociais informais e sutis que existem em seus espaços de circulação e de sociabilidade. Utilizando como referencial a Teoria da Prática de Pierre Bourdieu (1930-2002), analisamos em que medida os percursos migratórios e as estratégias são o resultado de disposições incorporadas (habitus) e capitais adquiridos antes da migração, observando ainda o modo como as diversas práticas sociais e discursos são ativados e exteriorizados no trato cotidiano das situações vivenciadas na sociedade de destino.
Educação e Imigração: a importância do ensino da Sociologia para imigrantes
Authors: Tonhati Tânia
Published: October 2019

O presente artigo, com caráter de ensaio, aborda de forma reflexiva, a relação entre imigração educação. Em concreto o texto tem como objetivo suscitar a necessidade de refletir sobre a importância do ensino da sociologia nas escolas com alunos imigrantes. O número de imigrantes no país vem crescendo nas duas últimas décadas e, consequentemente, também aumentou a entrada de crianças e adolescentes imigrantes no sistema educacional básico do país. Portanto, faz-se necessário pensar como a Sociologia com seus instrumentos conceituais, pedagógicos e metodológicos pode ser um locus para os alunos imigrantes e não-migrantes entenderem melhor as particularidades dos processos migratórios, suas motivações e consequências. Ademais, é relevante pensar como a disciplina de Sociologia pode contribuir para a integração sociocultural e para a socialização dos alunos imigrantes no seu novo contexto cultural. E, ainda, como essa pode colaborar para a escola valorizar as diferenças e particularidades culturais do alunato imigrante.
La Continuidad del Neoliberalismo en Chile
Authors: Madariaga Aldo
Published: October 2019

Desde la aplicación de la terapia de shock dirigida por Augusto Pinochet y sus Chicago Boys, Chile se transformó en un caso ejemplar para el estudio del neoliberalismo. A pesar de las correcciones introducidas a partir del regreso a la democracia, y contrario a una retórica que enfatiza el carácter reformista de los gobiernos democráticos de centroizquierda, Chile ha mantenido en lo fundamental su modelo económico basado en la herencia neoliberal de la dictadura militar. En este artículo, reviso los factores político-económicos que ayudan a explicar la experiencia de continuidad neoliberal en Chile desde los gobiernos de la Concertación, y poniendo particular énfasis en los gobiernos del "giro a la izquierda" de Ricardo Lagos y Michelle Bachelet. Para analizar la experiencia chilena, en este artículo construyo una explicación holística basada en los tres factores típicos que se utilizan en la economía comparada, ideas, instituciones e intereses, como los tres pilares de una explicación del neoliberalismo y su continuidad, y ofrezco una propuesta teórico-metodológica para observar empíricamente la operación de cada pilar.
Um Panorama dos Últimos 25 anos no Brasil
Authors: Novoa Garzon Luis Fernando
Published: October 2019

Com o propósito de explicitar a passagem, em um marco analítico ampliado, que vai do entrechoque de projetos históricos ao entrecruzamento discursivo-institucional, faremos uso das categorias gramscianas provindas da tardia modernização italiana no século XIX (Rissorgimento) para depois cotejar acepções contemporâneas – a partir de abordagens de matiz neoinstitucionalista e neomarxista – de continuidades ou de arraigamentos neoliberais. Essa discussão tornou-se apresentável na forma de ensaio histórico em que se busca a concatenação dos fatos colocados sob análise e comparação. O texto em si procura devassar um alongado ciclo de rupturas e permanências econômicas e políticas no Brasil, a partir de 1994 com base em conceitos e conceitualizações que somente ganham sentido nos contrapontos históricos propostos. Assim como há um jogo entre revolução e restauração no conceito de revolução passiva, não há contraposição entre evento e estrutura no neoliberalismo de “longa duração” ou nos processos sequenciais de reestruturação regulatória pró-mercados (neoliberalização) verificados no Brasil nos últimos 25 anos. Tratamos, enfim, de apresentar essas resurgências neoliberais como malogros de alternativas almejáveis e palpáveis, alternativas que foram sistematicamente sabotadas e neutralizadas. Ao historicizar o padrão regulatório predominante no capitalismo no Brasil e abordar a forma política que lhe correspondeu sucessivamente nesse período, pretendemos escapar à essencialização ou rotulação do debate teórico-político acerca do neoliberalismo.
A Questão Agrária e a Transformação Rural Neoliberal na América Latina
Authors: Kay Cristóbal
Published: October 2019

Desde a virada neoliberal na América Latina, a economia e sociedade rural vêm experimentando uma grande transformação. O capital corporativo e as agroindústrias transnacionais se apoderaram da agricultura transformando radicalmente as relações econômicas e sociais da produção que levam à precarização e feminização da mão de obra rural, assim como à intensificação do trabalho. Os camponeses enfrentam condições cada vez mais difíceis, tendo que buscar com maior frequência renda fora da agricultura, principalmente por meio de atividades salariais precárias, com o fim de ganhar a vida, impulsionando, assim, o processo de proletarização. Os focos da „nova ruralidade‟ e „territoriais‟ trataram de explicar estas transformações, no entanto apresentam limitações. Por outro lado, uma visão desde a economia política sobre a questão agrária se considera mais promissora. Movimentos que contestam o neoliberalismo surgiram, encabeçados pelos povos indígenas e a população rural pobre, às vezes vinculados ao movimento camponês transnacional „Via Campesina‟. Seu principal objetivo é a construção de um sistema agrário alternativo baseado na „soberania alimentar‟, que é promissor, embora também polêmico.

Tradução do artigo original em inglês para o português por Rafael Moreira de Mello.
Phenotypic Characterization and the Resistance of Local Peanuts from West Nusa Tenggara to Bacterial Wilt Disease [Ralstonia solanacearum]
Authors: Widiastuti Eka , Rahayu Muji , Zulhaedar Fitria
Published: October 2019

West Nusa Tenggara Barat has local peanuts that can be used as a source of germplasm, i.e. Bima, Pelat, and Lombok Utara. The productivity of peanut is greatly influenced by the attack of pests/diseases, like bacterial wilt disease. Bacterial wilt is one of the major diseases that can reduce peanut production up to 60% and one of the control mechanisms that can be used is local varieties that are resistant to bacterial wilt disease. This research aimed to evaluate the resistance of local peanut from West Nusa Tenggara to bacterial wilt disease (Ralstonia solanacearum) and to characterize the phenotype of the peanuts. The field research was conducted in the Genetic Resources Field Collection located in Narmada Experimental Field, on January until April 2016. The research method used was randomized complete block design (RCBD) single factorial with 9 replications, thus totally 27 plots were used. Three varieties of peanuts were evaluated, i.e two local varieties (Pelat Sumbawa and Lokal KLU) and Kelinci variety as control. The results showed that the pods and seeds were the main traits that distinguish Lokal KLU and Pelat varieties. The Lokal KLU had medium size pods with a weight of 100 seeds of 48.96 g, while Pelat and Kelinci had very large pod sizes with a weight of 100 seeds of 42.45  and 32.92 g, respectively, thus they were a potential high yielding plants. Lokal KLU had resistance to bacterial wilt compared to Kelinci that was medium resistant and Pelat that was susceptible to bacterial wilt disease.
The prevalence of selected non-communicable disease risk factors among HIV patients on anti-retroviral therapy in Bushbuckridge Sub-district, Mpumalanga province
Authors: Mathebula Rudy Londile , Maimela Eric , Ntuli Thembelihle Samuel
Published: October 2019

Background: The rates of non-communicable diseases (NCD’s) appear to be increasing in HIV infected people as compared to non-HIV infected people and this will have major implications for clinical care. The aim of the current study was to profile selected cardiovascular disease risk factors among HIV patients on ART in Bushbuckridge sub-district.

Methodology: The current study followed a quantitative cross-sectional study design using a questionnaire which was adapted from World Health Organization STEPwise approach to Surveillance (WHO STEPS). Participants were HIV infected people on ART and data was entered into a computer software Microsoft excel, then imported to Stata 12 for analysis.

Results: The overall prevalence of overweight at the initiation of ART amongst the participants was 18.1% and obesity was 11.5% as compared to the time of the study which was 21.4% overweight and 19.6% obese. The average time of ART initiation to study period was 3.6 years. The study findings revealed a significant difference (p-value 0.006) between the baseline and current body mass index at time of study for females. Hypertension was found to be having a significant difference (p-value 0.026 and 0.038) between the baseline and current body mass index at time of study for males and females respectively. The overall prevalence of hypertension was found to be 34.6%, overweight was 21.4% obesity was 19.6%.

The overall prevalence of abnormal waist circumference was 31.9% and females had a higher prevalence of 42.5% as compared to 4.4% of males. The overall prevalence of smoking 10.8% and alcohol consumption was 21.7%. Males were 22.5 times more likely to be smokers than females (p<0.001) and older people were found to be 0.3 times less likely to consume alcohol as compared to young people.

Conclusion: The high levels of selected risk factors for NCDs among adults on ART in the current study area suggest an urgent need for health interventions to control risk factors in an era of HIV with an aim of reducing multiple morbidity of chronic diseases. occurrence of NCDs and their risk factors with an aim to achieve positive effects of the long-term anti-retroviral therapy (ART).
De novo sequencing of the transcriptome of Fargesia macclureana (Poaceae) reveals regulators of the floral transition and ecological adaptations to high altitude
Authors: Li Ying , Zhang Chunxia , Yang Kebin , Shi Jingjing , Ding Yulong , Gao Zhimin
Published: October 2019

Background Fargesia macclureana (Poaceae) is a woody bamboo species found on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) approximately 2,000 ~ 3800 m above sea level. It rarely blossoms in the QTP, but it flowered 20 days after growing in our lab, which is in a low-altitude area outside the QTP. To date, little is known regarding the molecular mechanism of bamboo flowering, and no studies of flowering have been conducted on wild bamboo plants growing in extreme environments. Here, we report the first de novo transcriptome sequence for F. macclureana to investigated the putative mechanisms underlying the flowering time control used by F. macclureana to adapt to its environment. Results Illumina deep sequencing of the F. macclureana transcriptome generated 140.94 Gb of data, assembled into 99,056 unigenes. A comprehensive analysis of the broadly, specifically and differentially expressed unigenes (BEUs, SEUs, and DEUs) and a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed that changes in expressions of unigenes related to the circadian cycle may account for the differences in the floral transition of F. macclureana after being transplanted from the QTP to a laboratory outside. In addition, there were differences in active carbohydrate metabolism and signal transduction between the flowering and non-flowering plants. Moreover, we detected the expression of unigenes related to DNA repair and plant-pathogen interactions, which may be of adaptive importance. Finally, we detected 9,296 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) that may be useful for further molecular marker-assisted breeding. Conclusions F. macclureana may have evolved specific reproductive strategies for flowering-related pathways in response to photoperiodic cues to ensure long vegetation growing period. Our findings will provide new insights to future investigations into the mechanisms of flowering time control and adaptive evolution in plants growing at high altitudes.
Social Determinants of Psychological Wellness for Children and Adolescents in Rural NSW
Authors: Peters Ingrid , Handley Tonelle , Oakley Karen , Lutkin Sarah , Perkins David
Published: October 2019

Background: The mental wellness of children and adolescents in rural Australia is under researched and key to understanding the long-term mental health outcomes for rural communities. This study used data from the Australian Rural Mental Health Study (ARMHS), particularly the parent report Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) measure for children under 18 years old and their reporting parent’s demographic information to compare this sample’s mental wellness scores to the Australian norms and to identify what personal, family, community and rurality factors contribute to child mental wellness as pertaining to the SDQ total and subdomain scores. Method: 539 children from 294 families from rural NSW were included. SDQ scores for each child as well as personal factors (sex and age), family factors (employment status, household income and sense of community of responding parent), community SES (IRSAD) and rurality (ASCG) were examined. Results: Children and adolescents from rural areas had poorer mental wellness when compared to a normative Australian sample. Further, personal and family factors were significant predictors of the psychological wellness of children and adolescents, while after controlling for other factors, community SES and level of rurality did not contribute significantly. Conclusions: Early intervention for children and families living in rural and remote communities is warranted particularly for low income families. There is a growing need for affordable, universal and accessible services provided in a timely way to balance the discrepancy of mental wellness scores between rural and urban communities.
Individualized behaviour change strategies for physical activity in multiple sclerosis (IPAC-MS): protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Goulding Farren L. , Evans Charity D. , Knox Katherine B. , Lim Hyun J. , Levin Michael C. , Donkers Sarah J.
Published: October 2019

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, degenerative disease of the central nervous system. Because of the long-term and unpredictable nature of the disease, the burden of MS is significant from both a patient and societal perspective. Despite a recent influx of disease-modifying therapies to treat MS, many individuals continue to experience disability that negatively affects productivity and quality of life. Previous research indicates that physical activity has a positive impact on walking function in individuals with MS, in addition to the usual beneficial effects on overall health. However, most people with MS are not active enough to gain these benefits, and a lack of support to initiate and maintain physical activity has been identified as a major barrier. This study will evaluate the impact of a novel intervention involving individualized behavioural change strategies delivered by neurophysiotherapists on increasing physical activity levels in individuals with MS who are currently inactive.Methods/Design

This single-blinded, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial will be conducted in Saskatchewan, Canada. Eligible participants include individuals with MS who are ambulatory, but identified as currently inactive by the self-reported Godin Leisure-time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ). The intervention will be delivered by neurophysiotherapists and includes individualised behavioural change strategies aimed at increasing physical activity over a 12-month period. The control group will receive usual care during the 12-month study period. The primary outcome is the change in physical activity level, as measured by the change in the GLTEQ score from baseline to 12 months. Secondary outcomes include the change in patient-reported outcome measures assessing MS-specific symptoms, confidence and quality of life.Discussion

Physical activity has been identified as a top research priority by the MS community. Findings from this novel study may result in new knowledge that could significantly impact the management and overall health of individuals with MS.
Low psoas muscle index is a poor prognostic factor for lower gastrointestinal perforation: a single-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kayano Hajime , Nomura Eiji , Abe Rin , Ueda Yasuhiko , Machida Takashi , Fujita Chikara , Uchiyama Shohei , Endo Kazuyuki , Murakami Katsuki , Mukai Masaya , Makuuchi Hiroyasu
Published: October 2019

Background

Various body composition indices have been reported as prognostic factors for different cancers. However, whether body composition affects prognosis after lower gastrointestinal tract perforation requiring emergency surgery and multidisciplinary treatment has not been clarified. This study examined whether body composition evaluations that can be measured easily and quickly from computed tomography (CT) are useful for predicting prognosis.Methods

Subjects comprised 64 patients diagnosed with perforation at final diagnosis after emergency surgery for a preoperative diagnosis of lower gastrointestinal tract perforation and penetration. They were divided into a survival group and a non-survival (in-hospital mortality) group and compared. Body composition indices (psoas muscle index (PMI); psoas muscle attenuation (PMA); subcutaneous adipose tissue index (SATI); visceral adipose tissue index (VATI); visceral-to-subcutaneous fat area ratio (VSR)) were measured from preoperative CT. Cross-sectional psoas muscle area at the level of the 3rd lumbar vertebra was quantified. Optimal cut-off values were calculated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Poor prognostic factors were investigated from multivariate logistic regression analyses that included patient factors, perioperative factors, intraoperative factors, and body composition indices as explanatory variables.Results

The cause of perforation was malignant disease in 12 cases (18.7%), and benign disease in 52 cases (81.2%). The most common cause was diverticulum of the large intestine. Emergency surgery for the 64 patients led to survival in 52 patients and death in 12 patients. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, independent predictors of poor prognosis were Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score (odds ratio 1.908; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.235–3.681; P =0.0020) and PMI (odds ratio 13.478; 95%CI 1.342–332.690; P =0.0252). The cut-off PMI was 4.75 cm 2 /m 2 for males and 2.89 cm 2 /m 2 for females. Among survivors, duration of hospitalization was significantly longer in the low PMI group (29 days) than in the high PMI group (22 days, p=0.0257).Conclusions

PMI is easily determined from CT and allows rapid evaluation of prognosis following lower gastrointestinal perforation.
BMI Perception: A potential cheap alternative to objectively measured BMI?
Authors: Shiely Frances , Millar Seán R
Published: October 2019

Background Accurately measuring BMI in large epidemiological studies is problematic as objective measurements are expensive, so subjective methodologies must usually suffice. A number of subjective methodologies have been shown to be inaccurate, resulting in misclassification to a lower BMI category and a subsequent underestimation of obesity prevalence. The purpose of this study is to explore a new subjective method of measuring BMI, BMI perception. Methods A cross-sectional analysis of the Mitchelstown Cohort Rescreen study, a random sample of 1 354 men and women aged 51–77 years recruited from a single primary care centre. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. BMI perception was measured by asking “Do you think you are underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese?” Weight and height were also objectively measured. Results 79% of the cohort were overweight or obese: 86% of males, 69% of females, P<0.001. The sensitivity for correct BMI perception for normal weight, overweight and obese was 77%, 61% and 11% respectively. 59% of overweight/obese participants underestimated their BMI. In multivariable analysis, gender, higher education levels, being told by a health professional to lose weight, and being on a diet were significantly associated with correct BMI perception. There was a linear trend relationship between increasing BMI levels and correct perception of BMI; participants in the highest BMI quartile had an approximate eight-fold increased odds of correctly perceiving their BMI when compared to participants within the lower overweight/obese quartiles (OR=7.72, 95% CI: 4.59, 12.98). Conclusions BMI perception as a subjective measurement of BMI has the potential to be an important measurement tool in large epidemiological studies. Clinicians need to be aware of disparities between BMI perception at the higher and lower BMI levels among overweight/obese patients and encourage preventative action for those at the lower levels to avoid weight gain and thus reduce their all-cause mortality risk.
Knowledge, Attitude and Associated Factors towards Safe Abortion among Private College Female Students of Gondar town, northwest Ethiopia: A cross sectional study
Authors: Mekonnen Birye Dessalegn , Wubneh Chalachew Adugna
Published: October 2019

Background: Unwanted pregnancies in youths and complications of induced abortions are an important health problem. Inadequate knowledge, unfavorable attitude towards safe abortion results in unsafe abortion. Most women die because of complications arising from unsafe abortion in developing countries are likely to have had little knowledge. Studies on knowledge, attitude and associated factors towards safe abortion among private college students are limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess knowledge, attitude and associated factors towards safe abortion among private college female students in Gondar town, northwest EthiopiaMethods: An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 30, 2019 to May 30, 2019 among private college students in Gondar town. Data were collected from 633female students using self-administered questionnaires by simple random sampling technique. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify association of dependent and independent variables using SPSS version 20.Result: A total of 633 respondents participated in this study with the response rate of 97.7%. Regarding the overall knowledge, 433(68.4%) of students had good knowledge towards safe abortion. Age (AOR= 2.81, 95% CI: 1.13, 7.47), residence (AOR=2.33, 95% CI: 1.22, 4.46), family education (AOR=3.29, 95% CI: 1.22, 6.46) and ever heard about safe abortion, (AOR=4.31, 95% CI: 1.79, 10.33) were factors associated with knowledge of students on safe abortion. Regarding attitude, 361 (57%) of students had favorable attitude towards safe abortion. Age (AOR=2.62, 95% CI: 1.70, 4.04) and residents (AOR=1.50, 95% CI: 1.04, 2.17) were factors significantly associated with attitude towards safe abortion.Conclusion: More than half of the participants have good knowledge and attitude towards safe abortion but still significant proportion of students have poor knowledge and unfavorable attitude. Information, Education and Communications programs on youth reproductive health should be provided to address topics on safe abortion for students. Forums and panel discussions on safe abortion need to be undertaken especially, among youths and students who came from rural area.
The transmission mode of Legionella from its source
Authors: Li Jun , Liu Lin , Li Kunquan , Li Xuebin , Tao Tao
Published: October 2019

BackgroundLegionella pneumonia has a fatality rate of 28%.Methodsmicroscope, fluorescence Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR), force mathematical analysis.Results and ConclusionThe transmission mode of Legionella from its source was analyzed by microscope and qPCR. The Legionella removal efficiency by a membrane composed of water molecules was 94.5%, and Legionella had difficulty in penetrating through the surface of the water membrane. A deflection point at the interface between water and air indicated a cluster of Legionella that was bonded to the contact surface by some unknown emplastic media. Force analysis showed that the surface tension of water is 106 orders of magnitude larger than the net force from the sum of the buoyancy and the weight of Legionella, and revealed that the surface tension of water is so large that a Legionella bacterium cannot break away from the water surface membrane and escape. The qPCR results showed that no Legionella was found in the air from a Legionella incubator or the Legionella laboratory. The results demonstrate that Legionella cannot be transmitted to people through water vapor or aerosol. The experimental results also indicate that water was able to remove most Legionella bacteria.
Gender Differences in the Effect of Medical Humanities Program on Medical Students' Empathy: A Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Lwow Michal , Canetti Laura , Muszkat Mordechai
Published: October 2019

Objective: Previous studies have suggested that Medical students' empathy declines during medical school, especially during clinical studies. The aim of this study was to examine whether humanities curriculum and admission system affect empathy changes during the first clinical year in medical school. Methods: In this prospective longitudinal study, 262 students were assessed during the fourth-year of medical school. Empathy was assessed before and at 4th-year-end, using the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy-Student Version (JSPE-S). The study included three cohorts, differing in humanities curriculum [limited Medical Humanities (MH(lim)) vs. extended Medical Humanities (MH(ext))], and in admission system [Personal Interview (PI) vs. multiple mini interviews (MMI)]. Results: Among women, but not among men, MH(ext) as compared to MH(lim) was associated with significantly higher JSPE-S at the beginning (118.47±11.43 vs. 110.36±9 .97, p<0.001), and end of 4th-year (117.97±12.86 vs. 111.49±14.42, p<0.001), (p=0.009). Admission system was not associated with JSPE-S at the beginning or at the end of the 4th year. Conclusion: Among women, extended MH program had a positive effect on empathy at the beginning of the first clinical year, as compared to the limited program. This effect persisted through that year. However, in men MH program did not affect empathy. Adopting MMI-based admission system had no measurable effect on students’ empathy. Extensive educational program can enhance and sustain empathy in medical students during the first clinical year following the program. Gender differences in response to medical humanities programs requires further study.
Nitric oxide is involved in the brassinolide-induced adventitious root development in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) explants
Authors: Yutong Li , Wu Yue , Liao Weibiao , Hu Linli , Dawuda Mohammed Mujitaba , Jin Xin , Tang Zhongqi , Yang Jianjun , Yu Jihua
Published: October 2019

Background: Brassinolide (BR), as a new type of plant hormones, is involved in the process of plant growth and stress response. Previous studies have reported the roles of BR in regulating plant developmental processes and also response tolerance to abiotic stresses in plants. In my study, the main purpose is to explore whether nitric oxide (NO) is involved in the process of BR-induced adventitious root formation in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), and whether it plays a certain role. Results: Exogenous application of 1 μM BR significantly promoted adventitious rooting, while high concentrations of BR (2-8 μM) effectively inhibited adventitious rooting. NO donor (S-nitroso-N-acerylpenicillamine, SNAP) promoted the occurrence of adventitious roots. Simultaneously, BR and SNAP mixed treatment significantly promoted adventitious rooting and the promoted effects was significantly superior to the application of BR or SNAP alone. Moreover, NO scavenger (c-PTIO) and inhibitors (L-NAME and Tungstate) inhibited the positive effects of BR on adventitious rooting. BR at 1 μM also increased endogenous NO content, NO synthase (NOS-like) and Nitrate reductase (NR) activities, while BRz (a specific BR biosynthesis inhibitor) decreased these effects. In addition, the relative expression level of NR was up-regulated by BR and SNAP, whereas BRz down-regulated it. The application of NO inhibitor (Tungstate) in BR also inhibited the up-regulation of NR. Conclusion: BR promoted the formation of adventitious roots via inducing the generation of endogenous NO.
Musculoskeletal pain and work-related risk factors among waste collectors in Hanoi, Vietnam: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nguyen Bang Van , Tran Thuy , Hoang Ngan Thi , Nguyen Bich Ngoc , Nguyen Quynh Thuy`
Published: October 2019

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent among waste collectors in developing countries. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and risk factors of persistent musculoskeletal disorders among waste collectors in Hanoi, Vietnam. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was utilized to study 331 waste collectors in 2017. The Örebro Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaire and questionnaires on demographic and working conditions were used to collect data. Descriptive and linear regression analyses were applied at the significant level p<0.05. Results: Results showed that the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among waste collectors in Hanoi was high (100%), multiple-site musculoskeletal disorders (at least two sites) were reported by 81%. Lower back was the most affected site, followed by pain in the neck and shoulders. The risk of persistent musculoskeletal disorders were higher amongst female workers, workers with the neck bent at an angle of 45 0 , kneeling, repetitive medial rotation while walking, and feeling dissatisfaction with work, stress or anxiety during one week before the survey. Conclusions: Hanoian waste collectors were suffered from musculoskeletal disorders as the results of unfavorable work postures and psychological stress at work. The findings imply the need of mechanical and social support at work for waste collectors to prevent the development of musculoskeletal disorders.
Supporting children who have a parent with a mental illness in Tyrol: A situational analysis for informing co-development and implementation of practice changes
Authors: Zechmeister-Koss Ingrid , Goodyear Melinda , Tüchler Heinz , Paul Jean Lillian
Published: October 2019

Background: A research project aimed to improve the situation of children of parents with a mental illness (COPMI) has recently begun in the Austrian region of Tyrol. The project aims to strengthen formal and informal support structures around the child through enhancing their village of collaborative support. Understanding the current situation in the region is vital for implementing practice change. This paper aims to gain knowledge on the Tyrolean societal and service provision context. Methods: We collected qualitative and quantitative data on overall societal characteristics, epidemiology of mental illness in Tyrol, services that currently exist within adult mental health care and for supporting children, parents and families, uptake of services, and current practices and challenges of identifying and supporting COPMIs. We analysed data along several external context dimensions: 1) professional influences, 2) political support, 3) social climate, 4) local infrastructure, 5) policy and legal climate, 6) relational climate, 7) target population, 8) funding and economic climate. Results: While there is awareness of challenges related to COPMIs at professional and planning level, there is a lack of installed support processes and standards to meet their needs across Tyrol. A variety of services are available both for unwell parents, as well as for families and individual family members. Yet, only one small service addresses COPMIs directly. Services fall into different sectors (education, health, social affairs) and are funded from different sources, making coordination difficult. Access varies from universal to rather restricted (i.e. through referral). The potential number of parents to be reached via adult mental health, in order to identify their children, differs considerably by setting. Societal structures indicate that the informal and voluntary sector may be a realistic source for supporting COPMIs in Tyrol. Conclusions: The societal structures and the current services provide a rich resource for improving identification and supporting of COPMIs, however considerable coordination and behaviour change effort will be required due to the fragmentation of the system and professional cultures. The insights into the context of supporting COPMIs have been of high value for developing and implementing practice changes in the local organizations.
Effects of iron on the growth, biofilm formation and virulence of Klebsiella pneumoniae causing liver abscess
Authors: Chen Tao , Dong Guofeng , Zhang Siqin , Zhang Xiucai , Zhao Yajie , Cao Jianming , Zhou Tieli , Wu Qing
Published: October 2019

Background: Klebsiella pneumoniae is considered as the most clinically relevant species of Enterobacteriaceae, known to cause severe infections including liver abscesses. To the best of our knowledge,iron in human body primarily gathers in liver. Further understanding of effects of iron on K. pneumoniae causing liver abscess is a promising way to elucidate the mechanism of poor prognosis of liver abscess. Results: All tested K. pneumoniae including those collected from liver abscess and other sterile sites and K. pneumoniae ATCC 700603 cultured in LB broth containing 50 μM iron grew optimally and were in possession of the strongest biofilm formation ability, while worst growth and biofilm formation ability of the strains cultured in iron-deplete environment were observed. The infection model of G. mellonella larvae showed the virulence of K. pneumoniae cultured with additional iron was significantly higher than cultured with iron chelator (P<0.05). The relative expression level of the four siderophores genes (iucB, iroB, irp1, entB) in K. pneumoniae strains isolated from liver abscess cultured with additional iron was lower than that with iron chelator. Conclusions: It is suggested by our research that iron in the environment can promote the growth and enhance the biofilm formation ability of K. pneumoniae and the lower expression of siderophores genes may be one of the mechanisms of iron affecting the virulence of liver abscess-causing K. pneumoniae. Further deeper evaluation of these phenomenons is warranted.
Establishment and Validation of a Nomogram with Intratumoral Heterogeneity Derived from 18F-FDG PET/CT for Predicting Individual Conditional Risk of 5-Year Recurrence before Initial Treatment of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Gu Bingxin , Ma Guang , Song Shaoli , Shi Liqun , Zhang Yingjian , Zhang JianPing , Yang Zhongyi
Published: October 2019

Objectives Intratumoral heterogeneity has an enormous effect on patient treatment and outcome. The purpose of the current study was to establish and validate a nomogram with intratumoral heterogeneity derived from 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for prognosis of 5-Year progression-free survival (PFS) of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).Methods A total of 171 NPC patients who underwent pretreatment 18F-FDG PET/CT were retrospectively enrolled. Data was randomly divided into training cohort (n=101) and validation cohort (n=70). The clinicopathologic parameters and the following PET parameters were analyzed: maximum and mean standardized uptake value (SUVmax, SUVmean), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and heterogeneity index (HI, SUVmax/SUVmean) for primary tumor and maximal neck lymph node. Cox analyses were performed on PFS in the training cohort. A prognostic nomogram based on this model was developed and validated.Results For the primary tumor, MTV-2.5, TLG-2.5, MTV-70%, and TLG-70% were significantly correlated with PFS. For the maximal neck lymph node, short diameter and HI were significantly correlated with PFS. Among the clinicopathologic parameters, M stage was a significant prognostic factor for recurrence. In multivariate analysis, M stage (P=0.006), TLG-T-70% (P=0.002), and HI-N (P=0.018) were independent predictors. Based on this prognostic model, a nomogram was generated. Patients with a risk score of ≥111 had poorer survival outcomes than those with a risk score of 0-76 and 77-110.Conclusions Intratumoral heterogeneity derived from 18F-FDG PET/CT could predict long-term outcome in patients with primary NPC. A combination of PET parameters and the TNM stage enables better stratification of patients into subgroups with different PFS rates.
Comprehensive Network Analysis of the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Sorafenib Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Cui Xiang , Li Chao , Wei Chunshan , Tong Guangdong , Xing Yufeng
Published: October 2019

Background: This research aimed to investigate the potential molecular mechanism of sorafenib resistance to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: Differential expression analysis were performed to identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in sorafenib resistant HCC. Then, a series of bioinformatic analysis were performed to explore the potential crucial molecules in sorafenib resistant HCC. For example, gene function annotation, pivot regulators prediction, ROC analysis and survival analysis. Results: There were 827 differentially expressed genes were identified. Moreover, most of the differentially expressed genes are involved in immune and inflammatory-related functions and signaling pathways. Also, 18 transcription factors were predicted to regulate the transcription factors of differentially expressed genes, which play an essential role in the regulation of dysfunctional gene networks. In target genes of transcription factors, CDK1 and CDKN1A have high diagnostic value in the resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma to sorafenib. Conclusions: TAPBP has the strongest correlation with drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma and the highest diagnostic efficiency. In addition, CDK1 and CDKN1A have high diagnostic value in the resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma to sorafenib. Overall, our analysis shows that a large number of gene disorders occur during the development of resistance to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma, and they are associated with immune and inflammatory reactions in the body. These results provide critical theoretical references for the pathogenesis and diagnosis of sorafenib resistance.