bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects Of Mobile Computer Supported Collaborative Learning to Improve Problem Solving and Achievements
Authors: SANTOSA Eka Budhi , DEGENG İ , SULTON Sulton , KUSWANDİ Dedi
Published: February 2020

This research aims to prove whether mobile Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (mCSCL) is better at improving learning outcomes to solve problems than mobile Computer-Supported Individual Learning (mCSIL) based on the student's Self Regulated Learning level. Data analysis techniques in this study used SPSS programs with two-way variance analysis. The research subjects involved 140 Harapan Bangsa Academy students. The results of the analysis found that mCSCL has an average of 67,071 provides better learning outcomes for problem-solving than mCSIL, which is 63,414. Also, this study found that students with higher Self Regulated Learning (SRL) had better learning achievement than students with lower Self Regulated Learning that is, 66.5 compared to 63.986. Furthermore, the test results also obtained Fab = 3,326 with Sig. = 0.07 then H0AB is accepted. This matter means the mCSCL and mCSIL learning strategies provide equally good learning achievements for students who have high or low Self Regulated Learning. The novelty of this study is that the mobile Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning strategy will be more effective in improving problem-solving learning outcomes if students have high Self Regulated Learning.
A importância da alfabetização cartográfica no ensino-aprendizagem da Geografia
Authors: Siqueira Rafaela Silva de , Santos Fernanda Rayane Tavares dos , Feitosa Ailton
Published: February 2020

RESUMO: O presente artigo tem como objetivo, apresentar a organização das atividades desenvolvidas no Programa Institucional de Bolsa e Iniciação à Docência (PIBID), da Universidade Estadual de Alagoas (UNEAL) durante o período de 2018 a 2019, na escola Estadual Monsenhor Macedo, na turma da 3ª série do Ensino Médio no âmbito da Cartografia. Sempre há o interesse em provocar o pensamento crítico nos alunos a respeito do ensino fornecido e aplicado em sala de aula, principalmente no que se refere ao uso de mapas nas aulas de Geografia. Isto, porquê, ressalta-se a importância dessa linguagem, para que o sujeito compreenda com mais significado a construção, organização e reconstrução do espaço geográfico. Nesse sentido, o principal objetivo do projeto foi fazer com que o aluno compreendesse os fatores da base cartográfica trabalhando com as informações dos conteúdos apresentados e discutidos na Geografia em sala de aula. A partir da imaginação, leitura e construção de mapas é possível associar o mundo real, com sua representação na Cartografia produzida no material didático e, até mesmo subtrair dela outras formas de interpretação. Assim, o trabalho partiu da deficiência apresentada por grande parte dos alunos que chegam das séries inicias do Ensino Fundamental ao Ensino Médio, sem compreender o verdadeiro significado das informações geográficas em relação ao ensino-aprendizagem da cartografia na sala de aula. Destaca-se nas observações colhidas neste trabalho, como referências à parte das oficinas, autores como ALMEIDA (2011) e SIMIELLI (1991), além do professor Dr. Ailton Feitosa, em atividades lúdicas que não estão inseridas na rotina escolar, trazendo ao centro de seus conhecimentos o que a monotonia do livro didático costuma esconder.

PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Cartografia, PIBID, Ensino, Geografia.
Cavalgadas e territórios emergentes entre a tradição e a espetacularização
Authors: Santos Daniele Luciano , Vargas Maria Augusta Mundim
Published: February 2020

Neste artigo abordamos as cavalgadas do município de Itaporanga d’Ajuda/SE, com o objetivo de analisar seus territórios pelas práticas sócio-espaciais mantenedoras e propulsoras de sua realização. Para isso, além da revisão bibliográfica, adotamos como metodologia a pesquisa documental em sites e jornais e a pesquisa de campo com uso da observação, realização de entrevistas, aplicação de questionários e registro fotográfico. Espera-se contribuir para a compreensão das motivações e das relações engendradas na manutenção das cavalgadas enquanto tradição e espetáculo.
Compreendendo o conceito território a partir da linguagem fílmica: a animação “O Rei Leão” como possibilidade didática no ensino de Geografia
Authors: Silva Felipe Santos , Gama Lívia Thaysa Santos de Albuquerque , Bráz Maria Luiza
Published: February 2020

RESUMO: O ensino de Geografia tem sido problematizado nos últimos anos e novas abordagens metodológicas têm sido propostas à luz da superação de metodologias tradicionais de ensino. Visando preencher uma lacuna existente na teoria que envolve as metodologias do ensino de geografia, o presente artigo busca propor a utilização da linguagem fílmica para o entendimento do conceito território a partir da animação “O Rei Leão”. A linguagem fílmica, agregada ao entendimento do conceito território, apresenta-se como uma possibilidade ao ensino de Geografia, por ser capaz de aproximar o conceitual – que muitas vezes parece distante dos alunos – a realidade concreta. Assim, acredita-se que esta proposta seja capaz de proporcionar o desenvolvimento de habilidades e competências no que tange a esse campo de aprendizagem, principalmente por permitir que a complexidade teórica do conceito território seja desvendada a partir de uma linguagem interativa e prazerosa como a linguagem fílmica, que, mesmo sendo de fácil acesso, ainda possui alguns entraves no campo do ensino, principalmente no que diz respeito às dificuldades de planejamento.  

PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Ensino de Geografia. Território. Didática. Linguagem fílmica.
Impact of Supply Chain Flexibility and Supplier Development on Supply Chain Effectiveness in Automotive Industry of Pakistan
Authors: Quershi Kafeel Uddin , Siddiqui Danish Ahmed
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this research is to study the significance of supply chain strategies namely supplier development and supply chain flexibility towards supply chain effectiveness in automotive industry of Pakistan. A survey was conducted using self-administered questionnaires to collect data from 300 supply chain professionals working in automotive manufacturing companies of Pakistan. The finding indicates that supplier development and supply chain flexibility have positive and significant impact on supply chain effectiveness in automotive industry of Pakistan. The research will help policy makers and management to integrate strategies and practices related to supplier development and flexibility to improve supply chain effectiveness in order to be competitive in automotive industry of Pakistan.
Teaching Chinese Language through Immortal Songs Comparing to Vietnamse Language
Authors: Hoi Huynh Tan
Published: February 2020

Foreign languages in general and Chinese in particular has an important role in the context which the world has been developing continuously. Understanding and using this language eloquently will make learners have more chances to exchange culture, absorb new knowledge as well as present thoughts and views in a comfortable way. This paper mentions the reality of teaching and learning Chinese and the ways to upgrade the education quality through training practicing immortal songs as well as comparing to Vietnamese language. The article was completed with the assistance of 30 learners who are studying Chinese at some foreign language centers in Ho Chi Minh City during July of 2018 and it showed that learning process will be much more interesting and easier when listening to music.
Effect of Different Fermentation Time on the Microbial, Mineral and Proximate Composition of Parkia biglobosa Seeds Fermented for Iru Production
Authors: Atere Ayowole Victor , Oyetayo Victor O. , Akinyosoye Felix A.
Published: February 2020

Fermented food condiments form an integral part of African diets as they supply nutrients with claimed medicinal properties. This research was designed to investigate the effect of period of fermentation on the microbial, mineral and proximate composition of fermented Parkia biglobosa seeds. The bacteriological, nutritional and sensory parameters were carried out on the raw, dehulled and fermented seeds. The result of the total bacterial counts showed that the raw seed had 3.67 log10cfu, there was a significant increase in the total bacteria count from 2.20 log10cfu/g in dehulled unfermented bean to 9.248 log10cfu/g at 96 hr of fermentation. The bacteria isolated were Bacillus subtilis (32 isolates), Lactobacillus plantarum (9 isolates), and Leuconostoc spp (3 isolates). The pH increased significantly from 4.57 in the raw seeds to 8.40 at 96 hr of fermentation. The titratable acidity decreased from 0.179N in the raw seeds until it got to 0.0313N at 96hr of fermentation. The proximate composition on dry mass basis showed that ‘iru’ fermented for 48hr had the highest protein content of 41.023%. The carbohydrate decreased from 42.153% in the raw seed to 20.733% at the end of fermentation. Four of the minerals; lead, cadmium, cobalt and nickel were detected in the raw seeds but were no longer available after dehulling. Phosphorus, sodium, calcium and potassium increased during the fermentation period. The sensory result showed that the intensity of growth on the surface of the fermenting bean increased. Moreover, the sensory score on the texture showed that the seed became softer as the fermentation progressed. The colour became darker and the ammonia odour became more pungent. The overall-liking showed a significant increase as the fermentation progressed where the panelist preferred the product fermented for 72hr. The result from this study revealed that the best time for fermentation of Parkia biglobosa seeds to produce good quality iru was between 48hr and 72hr.
LEGAL RESTRICTION OF BANKRUPTCY OF STATE-OWNED ENTERPRISE (SEO) AND SUSTAINABILITY: THE CASE OF INDONESIA
Authors: Shubhan M. Hadi , Indrawati  , CR Dri Utari
Published: February 2020

Purpose of Study: This research examines the possibility of state-owned enterprises being nailed in the legal system in Indonesia. According to the bankruptcy regulation in Indonesia, those who are unable to pay debts can be declared bankrupt by the creditors, including SOEs. However, other regulations state that the government’s assets (including those within SOEs) cannot be confiscated, including within bankruptcy confiscation.

Methodology: The research method used in this study is qualitative research using the type of doctrinal law research. The approach used is to use the statutory approach, conceptual approach, and case approach. Data from this study were obtained from commercial courts in Jakarta and Surabaya.

Main Findings: This study found that there was a desynchronization of the regulations regarding the SOEs’ bankruptcy, i.e., between the Bankruptcy Law and the other laws, and even points within the Bankruptcy Law itself. The example that can be taken in this study is PT Kertas Leces /Limited Liability Company (LLC) Kertas Leces) that had already gone bankrupt and experienced confiscation of its bankrupt assets.

Implications: The ideal bankruptcy model for SOEs is that the bankruptcy applicants for SOEs in the form of public companies or state-owned companies should be the Minister of Finance. The Ministry of Finance is responsible for the operational policies and supervision of SOEs, amounting to approximately 115 companies in the form of public companies or state-owned companies, including those that have already gone public and those which have not.

Novelty: Previous studies have only focused on the assets of state-owned enterprises that have been separated and therefore bankrupt. This study examines another matter, namely that not all state-owned enterprises can be declared bankrupt and found one state-owned bankruptcy.
Fossil capitalism, climate capitalism, energy democracy: the struggle for hegemony in an era of climate crisis
Authors: Carroll William K.
Published: February 2020

With the highest per capita carbon emissions among the G20, Canada presents the interesting case of a climate laggard and, in some respects, a first-world petro-state. In these circumstances, a regime of obstruction, with a distinctive political-economic architecture, has taken shape. This regime is constituted through modalities of power that protect revenue streams issuing from carbon extraction, processing and transport while bolstering popular support for an accumulation strategy in which fossil capital figures as a leading fraction.   It incorporates a panoply of hegemonic practices at different scales, reaching into civil and political society, and into Indigenous communities whose land claims and worldviews challenge state mandated property rights. This article first highlights findings from a seven-year collaborative investigation of the modalities through which fossil capital’s economic and political-cultural power is exercised at different scales; then outlines how the passive-revolutionary project of ‘climate capitalism’ is taking shape in the Canadian context as a response to climate crisis; and finally considers how a project of energy democracy might hold the potential to catalyze the formation of an alternative historical bloc.
A comparison of sensory evaluation and an electronic nose assay in the assessment of aroma in dry hopped beers
Authors: Štefániková Jana , Nagyová Veronika , Hynšt Matej , Kudláková Dominika , Árvay Július , Dráb Štefan
Published: February 2020

The aim of this work was to compare sensory evaluation and electronic nose technology used to assess aromas in dry hopped beers. An electronic nose based on gas chromatography was used for the first time. Hops varieties Amarillo, Cascade, Chinook, Kazbek and Mandarina Bavaria were used for the production of dry hopped beers and the Sladek variety was used for the control sample. The basic characteristics of the beers were determined, and the sensory evaluation performed by selected assessors was compared to the sensory assay using an electronic nose. Assessment of the aroma profile of dry hopped beers shows that the basic flavours of these beers, such as worty, yeasty and hoppy, were suppressed. Compared to the control sample, a significant grapefruit flavour was noted by the evaluators in Kazbek and Chinook beer samples. The most prominent determinant, compared to the control sample, was in general the citrus aroma. Based on the results of the principal component analysis, it can be concluded that there were statistically significant differences between the individual dry hopped beers and between them and the control sample with the exception of beers dry hopped with hops of the Amarillo and Cascade variety, which was also confirmed by the results of sensory evaluation (approximately the same scoring of the monitored descriptors).
Estimating Children’s Personalities Through Their Interaction Activities with a Tele-Operated Robot
Authors: Abe Kasumi , Nagai Takayuki , Hieida Chie , Omori Takashi , Shiomi Masahiro ,   Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR) 2-2-2 Hikaridai, Keihanna Science City, Kyoto 619-0288, Japan,   The University of Electro-Communications 1-5-1 Chofugaoka, Chofu, Tokyo 182-8585, Japan,   Osaka University 1-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan,   Tamagawa University 6-1-1 Tamagawagakuen, Machida, Tokyo 194-8610, Japan
Published: February 2020

Based on the little big-five inventory, we developed a technique to estimate children’s personalities through their interaction with a tele-operated childcare robot. For personality estimation, our approach observed not only distance-based but also face-image-based features when a robot interacted with a child at a close distance. We used only the robot’s sensors to track the child’s positions, detect its eye contact, and estimate how much it smiled. We collected data from a kindergarten, where each child individually interacted for 30 min with a robot that was controlled by the teachers. We used 29 datasets of the interaction between a child and the robot to investigate whether face-image-based features improved the performance of personality estimation. The evaluation results demonstrated that the face-image-based features significantly improved the performance of personality estimation, and the accuracy of the personality estimation of our system was 70% on average for the personality scales.
Gaze-Height and Speech-Timing Effects on Feeling Robot-Initiated Touches
Authors: Shiomi Masahiro , Hirano Takahiro , Kimoto Mitsuhiko , Iio Takamasa , Shimohara Katsunori ,   Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR) 2-2-2 Hikaridai, Keihanna Science City, Kyoto 619-0288, Japan,   Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Doshisha University 1-3 Tatara Miyakodani, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0321, Japan,   Keio University 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 223-8522, Japan,   JST PRESTO Research Division Gobancho Building, 7 Gobancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0076, Japan,   University of Tsukuba 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
Published: February 2020

This paper reports the effects of communication cues on robot-initiated touch interactions at close distance by focusing on two factors: gaze-height for making eye contact and speech timing before and after touches. Although both factors are essential to achieve acceptable touches in human-human touch interaction, their effectiveness remains unknown in human-robot touch interaction contexts. To investigate the effects of these factors, we conducted an experiment whose results showed that being touched with before-touch timing is preferred to being touched with after-touch timing, although gaze-height did not significantly improve the feelings of robot-initiated touch.
Permian Fusulinid Rugososchwagerina (Xiaoxinzhaiella) from the Shan Plateau, Myanmar: Systematics and Paleogeography
Authors: Huang Hao , Jin Xiaochi , Shi Yukun
Published: February 2020

Eastern Myanmar is an indispensable part of the Cimmerian Continent with Gondwana provenance. Fusulinids from Eastern Myanmar remain poorly known despite their biochronological and paleogeographical significance. This paper describes Rugososchwagerina (Xiaoxinzhaiella) subrotunda sp. nov. and Chusenella quasidouvillei of Murgabian age (Middle Permian) from the Thitsipin Formation at the Pindaya in the Shan Plateau, Eastern Myanmar. Taxonomic analysis of this new collection and of Rugososchwagerina (s.l.) in the literature leads us to suppress Xiaoxinzhaiella Shi, Yang & Jin, 2005 as a subgenus of RugososchwagerinaMiklukho-Maklay, 1959. This subgenus is diagnosed with much tighter coiling and reduced septal folding in juvenarium as well as relatively smaller test diameter throughout the ontogeny, compared with Rugososchwagerina (s.s.) which is typified by R. yabeiSkinner & Wilde, 1966. Furthermore, our comprehensive review reveals that the known occurrences of R. (Xiaoxinzhaiella) are strictly confined within blocks that previously constituted the Cimmerian Continent during the Permian period, and they were even more widespread than Rugososchwagerina (s.s.) among these blocks. Therefore, the previous understanding that Rugososchwagerina (s.l.) is characteristic for the Middle Permian Cimmerian region can be refined. We propose that R. (Xiaoxinzhaiella) is more appropriate as the truly endemic foraminiferal index signifying Cimmerian affinity.
Review of Refinery Engineering
Authors: Miller Walter
Published: February 2020

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 174, 1948, pages332–336.

Crude oil stocks were some 10,000,000 bbl higher on June 1, 1947, than atany time during 1946 but the extremely heavy refinery runs the last half of1947 cut crude inventories to approximately the 1946 closing level of225,000,000 bbl.' Many refiners were seriously short of crude oil during theyear. This shortage was reflected in numerous advances in the posted price ofcrude, justified in part as an incentive for more production but more generallydue to competitive bidding. Some purchasers of crude, endeavoring to keep theirplants running, resorted to the payment, either directly or indirectly, ofpremiums above the posted price. Another common practice employed by somesuppliers of crude oil was to demand refined products in exchange or trade fortheir raw material. The refined products picture has darkened in spite ofrecord throughputs. Stocks of gasoline and light and heavy fuel oils wereuncomfortably low at the beginning of the year and were in general still lowerat the close. The rationing of some products, principally gasoline, to dealersand stations, initiated during the year, gained momentum as stocks continued todiminish. The emphasis placed by the manufacturers of oil-burning equipment onthe convenience and economy of heating with oil, together with the tightsituation in coal, has developed a tremendous demand for burning oils.Consumption of liquefied petroleum gas for domestic and household fuel had morethan doubled in 1946 over 1943, and the demand seems to be limited only by theability of the equipment builders to furnish necessary storage, transportation, and burning equipment.

The supply situation is likely to become more acute in 1948. Demand forpetroleum products is being pushed to new heights not only by the unprecedenteddomestic market but by a sudden and drastic upswing in estimates of militaryand governmental requirements. Additionally, oil exports are running far belowthe volume requested, amounting to less than forty percent in a recent quarter, and export licenses are reportedly being approved on the basis of urgent needonly. A recent White House release sees little likelihood that estimatedrequirements of the sixteen nations participating in the proposed Marshall Plancan be met in full over its projected life-1948 to 1951.

Present demand dictates maintenance of refinery operations at the highestpossible level and the Bureau of Mines has forecast daily average crude runs in1948 of 5,265,000 bbl. The Economics Advisory Committee of the Interstate OilCompact Commission recently estimated the 1948 demand for petroleum products atnearly 6 pct above 1947. They further estimate daily average crude runs of5,375,000 bbl in 1948, some 2 pct higher than forecast by the Bureau ofMines.

Projected demand exceeds supply to the extent that Capitol Hill is reportedlyinvestigating ways of enabling oil companies to act in concert without dangerof antitrust prosecution, such as elimination of crosshauls, pooling ofproducts, and lowering of octane.
Rapid and High-resolution Imaging of Lumpectomy Margins Using Deep Ultraviolet Fluorescence Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Lu Tongtong , Jorns Julie M , Patton Mollie , Fisher Renee , Emmrich Amanda , Doehring Todd , Gilat-Schmidt Taly , Ye Dong Hye , Yen Tina , Yu Bing
Published: February 2020

Background: Re-excision rates for women with invasive breast cancer undergoing breast conserving surgery (BCS or lumpectomy) have decreased in the past decade but remain substantial. This is mainly due to the inability to efficiently and accurately assess the entire surface of an excised lumpectomy specimen during surgery. To address this problem, a deep-ultraviolet scanning fluorescence microscope (DUV-FSM) imaging system was developed and evaluated to determine whether it could accurately detect cancer cells on the surface of excised breast tissue.Methods: 37 (22 malignant and 15 normal/benign) fresh breast tissue samples of variable size were stained in propidium iodide and eosin Y solutions. A set of fluorescence images were obtained from one side of each sample using low magnification (4x) and fully automated scanning. The images from each sample were stitched to form a color image. Routine histopathology was performed on each sample. Three non-medical inspectors were trained to interpret and assess the fluorescence images. Patch-level nuclear-cytoplasm ratio (N/C) was calculated and ROC analysis with the Youden index was used for tissue classification. Results: DUV-FSM images a breast sample with subcellular resolution at a speed of 1.0 minute/cm2. DUV images show excellent visual contrast in color, tissue texture, cell density and shape between invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and their normal counterparts. Visual interpretation of DUV images was able to distinguish invasive carcinoma from normal/benign samples with high sensitivity (95%) and specificity (94.4%). Pairwise comparison of patch-level N/C identified significant differences (p<0.001) between normal and malignant samples. Using N/C alone was able to differentiate invasive carcinoma from normal breast tissues at the patch-level, with reasonable sensitivity (81.3%) and specificity (79.2%). Conclusions: DUV-FSM is a simple device that can rapidly image large, unprocessed breast specimens with subcellular resolution and excellent contrast which allows either visual or quantitative detection of invasive cancer cells on the surfaces of a surgical specimen. This study supports further investigation into whether this technology can be used for intraoperative assessment of surgical margins during BCS procedures.
Chronic Schistosomiasis, a Clinical and Laboratory Diagnostic Challenge in Malawi
Authors: Kamudumuli Pocha Samuel , Sinyiza Frank Watson , Chisale Master R.O. , Kaira Alfred , Kaseka Paul , Wu Joseph , Chingatichifwe Balwani Mbakaya , Chimbatata Chikondi Sharon
Published: February 2020

Objective: Schistosomiasis cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted at Mzuzu Central Hospital (MCH) from northern Malawi aiming at determining prevalence of schistosomiasis infection in cancer suspected patients. The data was collected from hospital files and the duration under review was from July 2013 to June 2018. A total of 790 Histopathological samples were analysed at University of North Carolina (UNC) Histopathology lab. Results were made available to the facility – Mzuzu Central Hospital.Results: The overall prevalence of schistosoma (S. mansoni & haematobium) infection was 1.7% (14/790). About 93% (13/14) of schistosomiasis cases were observed in female patients while 7% (1/14) from male patients. Of the 14 cases from different histopathological pattern (Cervix, Ureter, Liver, Ovary, GIT and Urinary bladder), 43% (6/14) of cases were diagnosed from cervical tissues. Correlation between HIV infection and schistosomiasis infection was not reached as Serostatus for reasonable number of patients was unknown. Schistosomiasis chronic infection is highly prevalent in Malawi. This disease is neglected and underestimated due to lack of clinical skills and capacity in most of the public laboratories to accurately diagnose it as such, most cases are misdiagnosed as cancer.
Anti-tumor effects of LncRNA-CR594175 silenceing on hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2 in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Liu Quan , Yu Xuxu , Yang Minjie , Li Xiangke , Zhai Xuejia , Lian Yujin , Chen Zhong , Fan Qingxia , Song Lijie , Li Wecai
Published: February 2020

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the cancers of highest incidence and mortality worldwide. Methods High-throughput screening was applied to find the most varied expressed LncRNA in primary hepatocellular carcinoma and explore the interaction network of it. Results We found that lncRNA-CR594175 was the lncRNA of most varied expression, which was lower in adjacent noncancerous tissues than in primary HCC, and was lower in primary HCC than in its metastases. Knockdown of CR594175 inhibited the proliferation and invasion of HCC cells HepG2. The mechanism study revealed that CR594175, as a RNA sponge, broke the negative regulation of CTNNB1 (Catenin, beta-1) by hsa-miR142-3p, and once CR594175 was silenced, the highly expressed hsa-miR142-3p regained its regulation on CTNNB1 and inhibited the proliferation and invasion through Wnt signaling pathway. Conclusions Our present study demonstrates for the first time that CR594175 silencing suppressed proliferation and invasion of HCC cells HepG2 in vivo and in vitro by restoring the negative regulation of CTNNB1 by hsa-miR142-3p, laying a solid theoretic base for using lncRNA-CR594175 as genetic therapy target for HCC and offering a reasonable explanation for inactivation of miRNA in difference tumors or tumor of different stages.
Identification of Nucleus Sterility Candidate Genes using a Resequencing Technique in Sweet Pepper Sterile Line AB91
Authors: Fan Yanqin , Meng Yaning , Yan Libin , Zhang Hongxiao
Published: February 2020

Breeding hybrids with nuclear male sterile lines is an important method for the cross breeding of sweet peppers. To date, few reports have been published on the nuclear male sterility gene of sweet pepper. Yet, there are approximately 20 pepper nuclear male sterility lines in the world. Using the self-developed testing material, sweet pepper nuclear male sterile dual-purpose line AB91, the genome-wide resequencing technique was applied to firstly find that the mutation site causing the abortion of sweet pepper nuclear male sterility AB91 is on chromosome #5. The mutation gene Capana05g000747 was filtered out and validated by the flight mass spectrometry genotyping method and determined to be the gene causing the abortion of sweet pepper nuclear male sterility AB91. The gene Capana05g000747 contains eight exons and seven introns, and its mutation site is a non-synonymous mutation site located at the 6th exon; the base C mutated into A, and the amino acid changed from alanine to serine. Sequence alignment analysis showed that the gene Capana05g000747 has a similar function to gene At2g02148. The gene At2g02148 contains a pentatricopeptide repeat protein which has important physiological functions in the gene expression process of organelles and is closely related to the performance of male sterility genes. Therefore, Capana05g000747 was selected as an important candidate gene for sweet pepper nuclear male sterile testing material AB91.
MMP10 involved in Radiosensitivity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer via DNA damage repair pathway
Authors: Lei Xiao , Chen Yuanyuan , Ma Na , Zhang Pei , Han Yanan , Du Lehui , Qu Baolin
Published: February 2020

Background Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is an aggressive subtype of lung cancer with high mortality and morbidity. Our purpose in this study is to investigate the effect of MMP10 in NSCLC during radiotherapy and its mechanism. Materials and methods We analyzed MMP10 expression and overall survival rate of patients via UALCAN analysis. Western blot analysis was used to test the protein expression. We applied clonogenic assay and apoptosis assay to detect radioresistance in vitro. The level of DNA damage and the DNA damage repair were disclosed via comet assay and γH2AX foci assay. Results Our results showed that high MMP10 expression in Lung Adenocarcinoma specimens is associated with poor outcomes of patients. Knockdown MMP10 induced radiosensitization in A549 cells via clonogenic assay and apoptosis assay. Furthermore, we found MMP10 siRNA enhanced DNA damage of NSCLC cells and MMP10 involved in DNA damage repair after IR. Conclusion Our data highlighted that MMP10 plays a crucial role in NSCLC after radiation via DNA damage repair pathway, and the regulating effect of MMP10 on radiosensitivity in NSCLC might confer to therapeutic implications to NSCLC radiotherapy.
The relationship of proteinuria detected on admission to the hospital on the outcome of pregnancy and childbirth in patients with preeclampsia. Article
Authors: Pylaeva Natalia Yu. , Shifman E. M. , Fedosov M. I. , Pylaev I. A.
Published: February 2020

Background. Proteinuria is one of the most commonly diagnosed symptoms of gestational hypertensive disorders. Its values are important not only for the diagnosis of preeclampsia, but also correlate with a high probability of developing eclampsia, HELLP syndrome and unfavorable perinatal outcomes, and also indicate the development of kidney damage after delivery.
Objectives. To assess the relationship of proteinuria during pregnancy and childbirth for mother and fetus in patients with preeclampsia when admitted to hospital in the Republic of Crimea from 2014 to 2018.
Materials and methods. We performed a retrospective chart review of 149 patients with proteinuria in which pregnancy was complicated by preeclampsia. The study was conducted at admission of patients to hospital. According to the severity of proteinuria, the patients were divided into 2 groups — with moderate and severe proteinuria. The frequency of maternal and fetal complications, anthropometric indicators of mothers, their somatic diseases, and obstetric history were investigated as responses.
Results. Patients with severe proteinuria, registered at admission to the hospital, were characterized by a younger age and lower body mass index versus patients with moderate proteinuria. The presence of severe proteinuria versus moderate proteinuria was more often observed in primigravida and nulliparous. Obesity and kidney pathology were more common in the moderate proteinuria group and among patients with severe proteinuria, cardiovascular diseases. The risk of complications of preeclampsia, as well as the likelihood of prematurity and respiratory distress in newborns were higher in the group of patients with severe proteinuria.
Conclusions. The presence of severe proteinuria in patients with preeclampsia on admission to the hospital was characterized by a higher frequency of adverse outcomes for the mother and fetus than in the group with moderate proteinuria.
Favorable Effects of Astaxanthin on Brain Damage due to Ischemia- Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Cakir Esra , Cakir Ufuk , Tayman Cuneyt , Turkmenoglu Tugba Taskin , Gonel Ataman , Turan Isil O.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Activated inflammation and oxidant stress during cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) lead to brain damage. Astaxanthin (ASX) is a type of carotenoid with a strong antioxidant effect.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of ASX on brain IRI.

Methods:

A total of 42 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 3 groups as control (n=14) group, IRI (n=14) group and IRI + ASX (n=14) group. Cerebral ischemia was instituted by occluding middle cerebral artery for 120 minutes and subsequently, reperfusion was performed for 48 hours. Oxidant parameter levels and protein degradation products were evaluated. Hippocampal and cortex cell apoptosis, neuronal cell count, neurological deficit score were evaluated.

Results:

In the IRI group, oxidant parameter levels and protein degradation products in the tissue were increased compared to control group. However, these values were significantly decreased in the IRI + ASX group (p<0.05). There was a significant decrease in hippocampal and cortex cell apoptosis and a significant increase in the number of neuronal cells in the IRI + ASX group compared to the IRI group alone (p<0.05). The neurological deficit score which was significantly lower in the IRI group compared to the control group was found to be significantly improved in the IRI + ASX group (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

Astaxanthin protects the brain from oxidative damage and reduces neuronal deficits due to IRI injury.
Extremely-randomized-tree-based Prediction of N6-methyladenosine Sites inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Govindaraj Rajiv G. , Subramaniyam Sathiyamoorthy , Manavalan Balachandran
Published: February 2020

Introduction:

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most common post-transcriptional modifications in RNA, which has been related to several biological processes. The accurate prediction of m6A sites from RNA sequences is one of the challenging tasks in computational biology. Several computational methods utilizing machine-learning algorithms have been proposed that accelerate in silico screening of m6A sites, thereby drastically reducing the experimental time and labor costs involved.

Methodology:

In this study, we proposed a novel computational predictor termed ERT-m6Apred, for the accurate prediction of m6A sites. To identify the feature encodings with more discriminative capability, we applied a two-step feature selection technique on seven different feature encodings and identified the corresponding optimal feature set.

Results:

Subsequently, performance comparison of the corresponding optimal feature set-based extremely randomized tree model revealed that Pseudo k-tuple composition encoding, which includes 14 physicochemical properties significantly outperformed other encodings. Moreover, ERT-m6Apred achieved an accuracy of 78.84% during cross-validation analysis, which is comparatively better than recently reported predictors.

Conclusion:

In summary, ERT-m6Apred predicts Saccharomyces cerevisiae m6A sites with higher accuracy, thus facilitating biological hypothesis generation and experimental validations.
Phytochemical Constituents of Annona reticulata and their Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Pham Ty Viet , Le Thang Quoc , Le Anh Tuan , Vo Hung Quoc , Ho Duc Viet
Published: February 2020

A phytochemical investigation of the leaves of Annona reticulata led to the isolation and
structural determination of β-sitosterol (1), ent-pimara-8(14),15-dien-19-oic acid (2), ent-pimara-
8(14),15-dien-19-ol (3), quercetin (4), quercetin 3-O-α-L-arabinopyranoside (5), and a mixture of quercetin
3-O-β-D-galactopyranoside (6a) and quercetin 3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6b). Of these, compounds
2 and 3 were isolated from the genus Annona for the first time. Compound 3 showed strong cytotoxicity
against SK-LU-1 and SW626 cell lines with IC50 values of 17.64 ± 1.07 and 19.79 ± 1.41 μg
mL-1, respectively.
Assessment of the Effect of HAART on Renal Function of HIV Patients Attending the Bamenda Regional Hospital, Cameroon
Authors: Nforbugwe Achu C. A. , Asongalem Acha E. , Nchotu Bihnwi R. , Tanue Elvis A. , Wirsiy Frankline S. , Assob Nguedia J. C.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Management of HIV involves a life-long administration of a cocktail of antiretroviral drugs, some of which have been known for their nephrotoxicity. Despite the increasing access to this combination therapy, Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) information on its renal effect is still scarce and contradictory. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of HAART on the renal function of HIV-infected patients attending the Bamenda Regional Hospital, Cameroon.

Methods:

This was a comparative hospital-based cross-sectional study involving HIV positive and negative individuals who visited the Day clinic of the Bamenda Regional Hospital during the study period. Spectrophotometry was used to quantify the renal markers. Glomerular Filtration Rate was determined by the 24 hours creatinine clearance method. Blood urea nitrogen was calculated from serum urea concentrations. Renal impairment was then classified according to the National Kidney Foundation clinical practice guideline. Data were analysed on SPSS version 21 using Student t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation. The level of significance was set at p<0.05.

Results:

A total of 201 participants were enrolled in this study, of which 144(71.6%) were females. Their ages ranged between 22 to 60 years with a mean age of 37.4 ± 9.6 years. The participants were divided into 3 study groups; HIV negative, HAART-naïve and the HAART experienced groups. The HAART experienced group had a significantly higher mean BUN and BUN-Creatinine ratio (p= 0.001 and 0.003 respectively) as well as the least creatinine clearance (p= 0.017) when compared to the other groups meanwhile the HAART-naive group had a significantly higher mean urine protein (p= 0.026) when compared to the other two categories. There was no association between renal dysfunction and the HAART regimen as well as adherence to treatment.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that though the participants on HAART had decreased renal function, the mean Creatinine clearance was not statistically different from that of the participants not yet on HAART. this is indicative that the decreased renal function could be as a result of the devastating effect of HIV. It further demonstrates no association between decreased renal function to the type of HAART regimen used, duration on HAART as well as the patient’s adherence to treatment.
Ciprofloxacin Resistant Salmonella Typhi Isolated at National Microbiology Reference Laboratory in Harare, Zimbabwe (January to April 2016)
Authors: Mutaurwa Ndatenda Shamiso , Munemo Ellen , Malunga Garikai , Zhou Danai Tavonga
Published: February 2020

Background:

Typhoid is a life-threatening infectious disease requiring the administration of antibiotics for treatment. Ciprofloxacin is the antibiotic of choice for diarrheal cases in Zimbabwe, adopted by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, from current World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines. However, there has been an increase in the emergence and spread of multidrug resistance against ciprofloxacin and conventional drugs antibiotics for the treatment of typhoid.

Objective:

This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of ciprofloxacin-resistant Salmonella Typhi (S. Typhi) isolated in Harare for the first quarter of 2016.

Methods:

This study was carried out at the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory (NMRL), located at Harare Central Hospital, in Zimbabwe. The NMRL carries out confirmatory tests and molecular typing of pathogens isolated at different national laboratories. The current study retrieved demographics, clinical data, and isolates for confirmed typhoid cases out of 402 suspected specimens. The isolates from Harare, confirmed as S. Typhi, between January and April 2016, were evaluated for ciprofloxacin resistance.

Results:

A total of 35 S. Typhi isolates were recovered for the period from January to April 2016. When the 35 isolates were characterised, nine (25.7%) were resistant to ciprofloxacin. The area with the highest recorded cases of typhoid fever was Budiriro High-Density Suburb in Harare. This area has been hit by other diarrheal outbreaks in the past, most likely due to the intermittent supply of safe water.

Conclusion:

Most high-density areas, where S. Typhi positive specimens originated, are overpopulated and have regular water cuts, resulting in a decrease in hygiene. More than a quarter of isolates are resistant to ciprofloxacin, agreeing with other reports from Zimbabwe. The misuse of antibiotics could be associated with resistance, necessitating education on the correct use of antibiotics in the community and other preventive measures. Additionally, molecular research on geographic and phylogenetic relatedness of isolates and other holistic approaches for studying the development of antimicrobial resistance mutations, using whole-genome sequencing, in this setting, are warranted.
Social Support and Breast Cancer Recurrence: Is there any Association?
Authors: Hosseini Leyli , Dehghani Mehdi , Tahmasebi Sedigheh , Akrami Majid , Shokrpour Nasrin , Ravangard Ramin
Published: February 2020

Background:

Breast cancer is the most prominent cause of women's mortality due to cancer and is one of the most serious and commonly diagnosed cancers among Iranian women. Also, social support plays a vital role in breast cancer patients' lives and their diagnosis and treatment processes. This study aimed to determine the associations between social support status and the recurrence of breast cancer in women breast cancer referred to the Breast Diseases Research Center in Motahari Clinic in Shiraz, Iran in 2018.

Methods:

This was an applied and descriptive-analytic study on women with breast cancer referred to the Breast Diseases Research Center in Motahari Clinic in Shiraz, Iran in 2018. A sample of 221 patients in two groups of 117 non-recurrence patients and 44 patients with recurrence and metastasis were selected randomly. A localized standard questionnaire was used to collect the required data. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 24.0.

Results:

Based on the results, there were significant differences between the two studied groups of patients with and without recurrence in terms of the means of social support and all of its dimensions (P-value<0.05); the means of social support and all of its dimensions in the group of patients without recurrence were higher than those in those with recurrence. Also, 88.6% of patients in the group without recurrence received high social support, while in the group of patients with recurrence, only 11.4% of them received high social support.

Conclusion:

The results showed that the breast cancer patients studied without recurrence had higher social support. Therefore, to improve the studied patients' health, we recommend providing the patients with a safe and secure environment, giving accurate and complete responses to the patients' questions, providing continuous psychological counseling, etc.
Collaborative Networks in Primary and Specialized Palliative Care in Switzerland - Perspectives of Doctors and Nurses
Authors: Schweighoffer R. , Reeves E. , Liebig B.
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

To date, information about collaborative networks of doctors and nurses in palliative care is still scarce, yet of great importance in revealing gaps in collaboration. This paper investigates the collaboration frequencies of medical doctors and nurses within, and across, different settings of palliative care.

Methods:

The study was based on a Swiss national survey on “Collaboration and cooperation in Palliative Care”. The subjects surveyed included service providers in the primary and specialized palliative care sectors, as well as support services (N=1111). Information about ties between providers was gathered by asking professionals to estimate the frequency of interaction with other professionals within the last year, on a daily, weekly, monthly and yearly basis. Social network analysis was used to assess the interaction patterns of nurses and doctors (N= 728) in primary and specialized care settings.

Results:

Visual representations indicated that, contrary to primary care settings, healthcare providers in specialized care settings reported of numerous interactions with other professions. In primary care, general practitioners reported the least frequent interactions with other professions. Of all providers investigated, specialized doctors in hospitals and hospices reported the densest collaborative networks.

Implication:

Gaps regarding collaboration in Swiss palliative care provision were revealed. Based on the results of the study, recommendations on how to improve service quality by strengthening the interaction patterns of general practitioners, as well as community-based palliative care, are provided.
Emerging and inter/trans-disciplinary research areas related to Chemistry
Authors: Rodríguez Cabrera Hortensia M.
Published: February 2020

Undoubtedly, Chemistry is a central science because it serves as a support and contributes to the development of many other disciplines, such as biology, geology, physics, paleontology, etc. Just by observing the environment that surrounds us, we can conclude that the world is composed of an infinite number of inert or living components, and all of them are composed of chemical substances of a broad range of complexity.

On the other hand, Chemistry has a direct relationship with the economic development of a country, due to most industries are based on chemical processes or materials. The impact of chemistry in different activities is high, in construction, ceramics, and steel, in the food, Energy or Petrochemical industry, in textile design, in Cosmetics and fragrances, in Agrochemicals and fertilizers, Pharmaceutical products, Water treatment, in Companies specialized in Environmental Chemistry, Manufacture of plastics and rubbers, quality and safety processes, in the mining industry, and so forth.