bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Root Native Tree Species on Soil Shear Strength on Hillslopes of Sierra Madre Oriental, Mexico
Authors: Zavala-González Rebeca Guadalupe , Cantú-Silva Israel , González-Rodríguez Humberto
Published: June 2020

Background: The presence of vegetation reduces soil erosion and shallow slope failure both by reinforcing soil shear resistance and influencing the geo-mechanic conditions of soil. For this reason, vegetation strategies in areas vulnerable to erosion are considered to be an effective control measure for soil erosion. Method: The tree species used in this research are widespread in the slopes of Chipinque mountain of Sierra Madre Oriental and belong to four native species: Cercis canadensis, Celtis laevigata, Quercus rysophylla and Ligustrum lucidum. In order to investigate the mechanical characteristics of roots, single roots specimens were sampled and tested for tensile strength. The tests were conducted with the Universal Testing Machine Shimadzu type SLFL-100KN to evaluate the influence of root shear strength on the soil using the Wu Model (Wu et al., 1979) as well as to analyze root cohesion and Root Area Ratio (RAR). The latter was calculated by taking both direct (field) and indirect measurements on image processing.Results: The results show that C. laevigata roots have the strongest tensile strenght, followed by Q. rysophylla > C. Canadensis > L. lucidum. RAR ranges from C. laevigata (0.0587%) > C. Canadensis (0.0585%) >L. lucidum (0.0504%) > Q. rysophylla (0.0441%). L. lucidum provides the less increase soil shear strength through root cohesion (16.12 kN/m2) > C. canadensis (53.70 kN/m2) > Q. rysophylla (89.07 kN/m2) to C. laevigata (97.41 kN/m2)
Comparative Evaluation of P16, Ki-67, and Shape-correlated Genes as Biomarkers for Cervical High-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions
Authors: Sun hengzi , Li Shuhong , Cao Dongyan , Yang Jiaxin , Peng Peng , Kong Linghua , Chen Fei , Huo Xiao , Shen Keng
Published: June 2020

Background:Colposcopy was referred in cases with severe abnormalities in co-testing. However, approximately 60%-80% patients did not receive proper benefits. Although p16/Ki67 dual staining reduced the referral rate, its sensitivity and specificity need to be enhanced. Methods:The expression of p16, Ki-67, SMAD3, YAP1, RELA were evaluated inthe colposcopy referral population. Results:The sensitivity and specificity of p16+ combined with Ki-67+ for predicting CIN2+ were 62.1% and 89.5%, respectively. p16+ combined with YAP1+ and/or RELA+ provided a sensitivity and specificity of 70.9% and 89.5%, respectively, while 72.8% and 86.4% were achieved by p16+ combined with YAP1+ and/or SMAD3+ and/or RELA+. In HPV16/18+ and LSIL subgroups, the sensitivity and specificity of p16+ combined with Ki-67+ for predicting CIN2+ were 67.7% and 87.6%, respectively, for the former group and 58.6%, 88.8%, respectively, for the latter group, whereas those of RELA alone were 76.9% and 90.5%, respectively, and 82.8% and 92.1%, respectively. p16+, YAP1+/RELA+ showed a better performance for predicting CIN2+ with a better sensitivity (86.7% vs. 52.2%, p=0.028) and considerable specificity (86.7% vs. 90.0%, p=0.486) in the other HPV+ combined with ASCUS groupthan were achieved by p16+ combined with Ki-67+. RELA+ and the combination of p16 and RELA/YAP1 also provided the Max AUC area. Conclusions:Our study shows that RELA and the combination of p16 and RELA/YAP1 achieved better sensitivity and specificity for detecting morphologically CIN2+ lesions.
Ezh2 Inhibitors Reverse Resistance to Gefitinib in Primary Egfr Wild-type Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Gong Hao , Li Yongwen , Yuan Yin , Li Weiting , Zhang Hongbing , Zhang Zihe , Shi Ruifeng , Liu Minghui , Liu Chao , Liu Hongyu , Chen Jun
Published: June 2020

Background: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. Traditional anticancer therapies involving epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) have been proven beneficial in the treatment of patients with EGFR mutations. However, patients with EGFR wild-type NSCLC usually fail to respond to EGFR-TKIs. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a key molecule of the PRC2 complex, plays an important role in epigenetic regulation and is overexpressed in various tumors. EZH2 inhibitors sensitize various types of tumor cells to antitumor drugs. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether the EZH2 inhibitors GSK343 and DZNep, whencombined with gefitinib, can reverse EGFR-TKI resistance in EGFR wild-type NSCLC. Methods:EZH2 expression was evaluated using the RNA sequencing dataset of NSCLC patients (502 lung squamous cell carcinoma cases including 49 paracancerous lung tissues and 513 lung adenocarcinoma cases including 59 paracancerous lung tissues) from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We simultaneously also verified EZH2 expressionin 40 NSCLC samples and their corresponding paracancerous lung tissues from our institution via quantitative PCR. The lung adenocarcinoma cell lines A549 and H1299 were treated with EZH2-specific small interfering RNA or EZH2 inhibitors and subjected to analyses of cell viability and apoptosis as well as of EGFR pathway protein expressions by western blotting. Results: EZH2 was upregulated in human NSCLC tissues and was correlated with poor prognosis in patients with lung adenocarcinoma based on data from both TCGA and our institution. Both EZH2 inhibitors sensitized A549 and H1299 cells to gefitinib and suppressed cell viability and proliferation in vitroby downregulating the phosphorylation of EGFR and AKT and inducing cell apoptosis. Co-administration of EZH2 inhibitors (GSK343 or DZNep) with gefitinib exerted stronger inhibitory effects on tumor activity, cell proliferation, and cell migration than single drug administration in vitro and in vivo.Conclusion: Co-administration of EZH2 inhibitors with EGFR-TKIs may be feasible for the treatment of EGFR wild-type NSCLC in patients who refuse traditional chemotherapy.
Prognostic role of sarcopenia and body composition with long-term outcomes in obstructive colorectal cancer
Authors: Lee Chul Seung , Won Daeyoun David , Oh Soon Nam , Lee Yoon Suk , Lee In Kyu , Kim In-Ho , Choi Moon Hyung , Oh Seong Taek
Published: June 2020

Background The clinical significance of sarcopenia in colorectal cancer obstruction has not yet been described. The present study aimed to determine the short and long-term oncologic impacts of sarcopenia in obstructive colorectal cancer. MethodsA total of 214 patients with obstructive colon cancer were included in this study, between January 2004 and December 2013. Initial staging computed tomography (CT) scans identified sarcopenia and visceral obesity by measuring the muscle and visceral fat areas at the third lumbar vertebra level. Both short-term postoperative and long-term oncologic outcomes were analyzed. Results Among all 214 patients, 71 (33.2%) were diagnosed with sarcopenia. Sarcopenia had a negative oncologic impact in both disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS), (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.860, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.035 – 3.128, p = 0.037, and HR = 1.917, CI 1.021 – 3.602, p = 0.043, respectively). Visceral adiposity, body mass index (BMI) and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) did not significantly impact DFS and OS. Conclusion Sarcopenia is a clinical factor significantly associated with OS and DFS but not with short-term complications in obstructive colorectal cancer. In future, prospective studies should incorporate body composition data in patient risk assessments and oncologic prediction tools.
Pyrolysis and Combustion Characteristics of Newly Discovered Coals from Nigeria: Physicochemical, Microstructure, Mineralogy, and Thermal Properties
Authors: Nyakuma Bemgba Bevan , Jauro Aliyu , Akinyemi Segun Ajayi , Faizal Hasan Mohd , Nasirudeen Mohammed Baba , Fuad Muhammad Ariff Hanaffi Mohd , Oladokun Olagoke
Published: June 2020

Despite Nigeria’s vast mineral and energy resources, the nation lacks sufficient electricity generation capacity to stimulate sustainable growth and infrastructural development. However, the discovery of vast coal deposits across the nation’s sedimentary basins could provide cheap, reliable, and abundant energy supplies. However, the lack of comprehensive data on the fuel characteristics, energy recovery, and potential emissions of Nigeria’s coals currently hampers the quest for coal-fired electricity generation. Hence, this study examined the physicochemical, microstructural, mineralogical, and thermal fuel properties of three (3) newly discovered coals from Akunza (AKZ), Ome (OME), and Shiga (SHG) in Nigeria for potential energy recovery through combustion and pyrolysis. Physicochemical analysis revealed high combustible but low levels of polluting elements. The higher heating values ranged from 18.65 MJ/kg for AKZ to 26.59 MJ/kg for SHG. Microstructure analysis revealed rough textured and surfaced particles with a glassy lustre ascribed to metals (such as Ti and Fe), quartz, and kaolinite. Mineralogical analyses revealed the major elements (C, O, Si, and Al), along with minor (Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, S, and Ti) associated with clays, salts, or the porphyrin constituents of coal. Thermal analysis showed mass losses (ML) ranging from 30.51% to 87.57% and residual mass (RM) from 12.44% to 69.49% under oxidative (combustion) and non-oxidative (pyrolysis) conditions due to the thermal degradation of organic matter and macerals (vitrinite, inertinite and liptinite) during TGA. Overall, the coals are potential feedstocks for energy recovery through pyrolysis and combustion.
Nomogram for the Prediction of Contrast-associated Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Hypoalbuminemia Undergoing Coronary Angiography
Authors: Liu Liwei , Liu Jin , Lei Li , Wang Bo , Sun Guoli , Guo Zhaodong , He Yibo , Song Feier , Lun Zhubin , Liu Bowen , Chen Guanzhong , Chen Shiqun , Yang Yongquan , Chen Jiyan , Liu Yong
Published: June 2020

Background: Risk stratification is recommended as the key step to prevent contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) by allowing for prevention among at-risk patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Patients with hypoalbuminemia are prone to CA-AKI and do not have their own risk stratification tool. Therefore, we developed and validated a nomogram for predicting CA-AKI in patients with hypoalbuminemia undergoing CAG/PCI.Methods: A total of 1272 consecutive patients with hypoalbuminemia undergoing CAG/PCI were enrolled and randomly assigned (2:1 ratio) to a development cohort (n = 848) and a validation cohort (n = 424). CA-AKI was defined as a serum creatinine (SCr) increase of ≥ 0.3 mg/dL or 50% from baseline within the first 48 to 72 hours following CAG/PCI. A nomogram was established with independent predictors according to multivariate logistic regression and a stepwise approach. The discrimination of the nomogram was assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and was compared to the classic Mehran CA-AKI score. Calibration was assessed using the Hosmer–Lemeshow test.Results: Overall, 8.4% (71/848) of patients in the development cohort and 11.2% (48/424) of patients in the validation cohort experienced CA-AKI. The simple nomogram included estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), serum albumin (ALB), age and the use of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP); showed better predictive ability than the Mehran score (C-index 0.756 vs. 0.693, p = 0.02); and had good calibration (Hosmer–Lemeshow test p = 0.187). Decision curve analysis showed that the nomogram was more clinically useful than the Mehran score.Conclusions: Our data suggested that the simple nomogram might be a good tool for predicting CA-AKI in high-risk patients with hypoalbuminemia undergoing CAG/PCI, but our findings require further external validation.Trial registration number NCT01400295
Biomass Cellulose Nanoparticles Display Considerable Neurotoxicity in Zebrafish
Authors: Liu Cong , Zhao Jinxiang , Wei Guanyun , Hao Wenjin , Wang Xin , Yang Chao , Shi Yunwei , Liu Dong
Published: June 2020

BackgroundThe widespread use of nanomaterials poses a great threat to human living environments. Among them, biomass cellulose nanoparticle (CN) is one of the widely used nanomaterials. To date, the toxicity of CNs during embryonic development remains undetermined. In this study, we exposed zebrafish embryos to cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) to evaluate the toxicity of these CNs. ResultsExposure to CNFs or CNCs below 30 mg/ml exhibited no dose-dependent increases in malformation and mortality in zebrafish embryos. Then we demonstrated that CNs were highly enriched in zebrafish embryo via imaging analysis of embryos treated with FITC-coupled CNCs. In addition, we found that CNF or CNC exposure resulted in compromised motor ability of zebrafish larva. Furthermore, it was revealed that the differentiation and the morphogenesis of motor neurons were significantly interrupted. While, blood vessels were normally patterned, suggesting the specific neurotoxicity of those materials. Transcriptome sequencing assay demonstrated that the neurotoxicity of CNs in the motor neurons might be attributed to the expression alteration of neural genes. ConclusionWe found that the specific neurotoxicity of CNF and CNC using zebrafish model. CNF or CNC exposure interrupted the morphogenesis of motor neurons, which resulted in the compromised motor ability of zebrafish larva. In addition, the neurotoxicity of CNs in the motor neurons might be attributed to the expression alteration of neural genes.
Required concentration index quantifies effective drug combinations against hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Kakizoe Yusuke , Koizumi Yoshiki , Ikoma Yukino , Ohashi Hirofumi , Wakita Takaji , Iwami Shingo , Watashi Koichi
Published: June 2020

Successful clinical drug development requires rational design of combination treatments based on preclinical data. Anti-HCV drugs exhibit significant diversity in antiviral effect. Dose-response assessments can be used to determine parameters profiling the diverse antiviral effect during combination treatment. In the current study, a combined experimental and mathematical approaches were used to compare and score different combinations of anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatments. A “required concentration index” was generated and used to rank the antiviral profile of possible double- and triple-drug combinations against HCV genotype 1 and 2. Rankings varied based on target HCV genotype. Interestingly, multidrug (double and triple) treatment not only augmented antiviral activity, but also reduced genotype-specific efficacy, suggesting another advantage of multidrug treatment. The current study provides a quantitative method for profiling drug combinations against viral genotypes, to better inform clinical drug development.
Patterns of changes in serum lipid profile in prediabetic patients: Results from a 16-year prospective cohort study
Authors: safari shahla , Amini Masoud , Aminorroaya Ashraf , Feizi Awat
Published: June 2020

Background
Lipids abnormality pervasively is associated with the risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. To the best of our knowledge, there is no study that examined the longitudinal changes in wide range of serum lipid profile in prediabetic subjects in association with the risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus in future. This study aimed to identify the patterns of changes in lipids profile over time in prediabetic patients and classify these subjects in order to highlight the high risk people for future diabetes risk.
Methods
This prospective 16-year (2003–2019) cohort study was conducted among 1228 prediabetic subjects. The study subjects followed over time and changes in their lipid profile include Triglycerides, Cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was evaluated. Latent Markov model was used for data analysis.
Results
Mean (standard deviation) age of subjects was 44.00 (6.86) years and 73.6% were female. Latent Markov model identified two latent states of subjects in terms of change in lipid profile: low tendency to progress diabetes/ high tendency to progress diabetes (74%/ 26%). Latent Markov model showed that the transition probability from “low tendency to progress diabetic” state to “high tendency to progress diabetic” state was lower than the transition probability from “high tendency to progress diabetic” state to “low tendency to progress diabetic” state.
Conclusion
In conclusion, abnormality of serum lipid profile remains a significant and growing problem in prediabetic subjects as high risk population. The reduction in the problem burden will require changes at the policy level as well as at the personal level.
Mapping of a major QTL, qBK1Z, for bakanae disease resistance in rice
Authors: Lee Sais-Beul , Kim Namgyu , Jo Sumin , Hur Yeon-Jae , Lee Ji-youn , Cho Jun-Hyeon , Lee Jong-Hee , Song You-Chun , Bombay Maurene , Kim Sung-Ryul , Lee Jungkwan , Seo Young-Su , Ko Jong-Min , Park Dong-Soo
Published: June 2020

Background: Bakanae disease is a fungal disease of rice (Oryza sativa L.) caused by the pathogen Gibberella fujikuroi (also known as Fusarium fujikuroi). Recently the disease incidence has increased in several Asian countries and continues to spread throughout the world. No rice varieties have been developed yet to be completely resistant to this disease. With increasing need to identify various genetic resources to impart resistance to local elite varieties, this study was carried out to identify novel quantitative trait loci (QTLs) from an indica variety Zenith. Results: We performed a QTL mapping using 180 F2:9 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between the resistant variety, Zenith, and the susceptible variety, Ilpum. A primary QTL study using the genotypes and phenotypes of the RILs indicated that the locus qBK1z conferring bakanae disease resistance from the Zenith was located in a 2.8 Mb region bordered by the two SSR markers, RM1331 and RM3530 on chromosome 1. The log of odds (LOD) score of qBK1z was 13.43, accounting for 30.9% of the total phenotypic variation. A finer localization of qBK1z was delimited at an approximate 730 kb interval in the physical map between Chr01_1435908 (1.43 Mbp) and RM10116 (2.16 Mbp).Conclusion: The development of a rice variety with a higher level of resistance against bakanae disease is a major challenge in many rice growing countries. Introducing qBK1z or pyramiding with other previously identified QTLs could provide effective genetic control of bakanae disease in rice.
Imaging of Chemokine Receptor-4 Targeted PET/CT with 68Ga-Pentixafor in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Comparison to 18F-FDG
Authors: Pan Qingqing , Luo Yaping , Zhang Yan , Chang Long , Li Ji , Cao Xinxin , Li Jian , Li Fang
Published: June 2020

Background: In order to study the CXCR4 expression with 68Ga-Pentixafor PET in different types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, we performed a retrospective study to describe the 68Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT imaging in a spectrum of lymphomas and to compare it with 18F-FDG PET/CT. Results: Twenty-seven patients with newly diagnosed non-Hodgkin lymphoma were recruited retrospectively. 68Ga-Pentixafor PET showed increased radioactivity in lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (n = 8), marginal zone lymphoma (n = 4), diffuse large B cell lymphoma (n = 3), follicular lymphoma (n = 2), mantle cell lymphoma (n = 1), unclassified indolent B cell lymphoma (n = 3) and enteropathy associated T cell lymphoma (n = 3). However, peripheral T cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (n = 1), and NK/T cell lymphoma (n = 2) were not avid for 68Ga-Pentixafor. In comparison to 18F-FDG PET, 68Ga-Pentixafor PET demonstrated more extensive disease and higher radioactivity in lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma and marginal zone lymphoma. Conclusion: CXCR4 expression varies in different types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Overexpression of CXCR4 was detected with 68Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT in lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, diffuse large B cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, unclassified indolent B cell lymphoma, and enteropathy associated T cell lymphoma.
Impact of Retrieved Lymph Nodes Count on Short-Term Complications in Patients with Gastric Cancer
Authors: Sun Feng , Liu Song , Song Peng , Zhang Chen , Liu Zhijian , Guan Wenxian , Wang Meng
Published: June 2020

Background: It is well established that retrieved lymph nodes (RLNs) count were positively correlated with better overall survival in gastric cancer (GC). But little is known about the relationship between RLNs count and short-term complications after radical surgery. Methods: A total of 1487 consecutive GC patients between January 2016 and December 2018 at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate analyses were performed to elucidate the association between RLNs count and postoperative complications. We further identified clinical factors that might affect the RLNs count.Results: Among all of the patients, postoperative complications occurred in 435 (29.3%) patients. The mean RLNs count was 25.1 and 864 (58.1%) patients were diagnosed with lymph node metastasis. Univariate analyses showed no significant difference between RLNs count and postoperative complications (both overall and stratified by CDC grade). We further explored that preoperative serum albumin, type of resection, operation time, tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis, and pTNM stage were associated with RLNs count. Conclusions: The current study demonstrated that RLNs count was not associated with postoperative short-term complications following gastrectomy of GC, which provided a rationale for the determination of a proper RLNs count of curative gastrectomy.
Twenty-Year Changes in Mortality Rates and Underlying Causes of Death in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease, 1999–2018
Authors: Gao Jinfang , Xin Lei , Guo Qianyu , Xu Ke , Zhang Gailian , Yang Yanli , Ma Dan , Zhang Liyun
Published: June 2020

Background: The treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has advanced considerably in the last 20 years. However, few population-based studies have assessed mortality rates and the underlying cause of death (UCD) in patients with RA and RA-associated interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD). We conducted a study to evaluate trends in mortality rates, demographic characteristics, and UCDs in patients with RA-ILD.Methods: Through data from death certificates (1999-2018) acquired from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Multiple Cause of Death files, we explored trends in mortality rates and UCD for RA and RA-ILD patients. We evaluated trends in crude rates and age-standardised mortality rates (ASMR) for patients with RA and RA-ILD.Results: In both RA and RA-ILD patients, ASMR variation trended downward over a 20-year period. The ASMR ratio of RA-ILD to RA decreased by 5.84%. The ASMR for RA and RA-ILD stratified by sex or age group also trended downward. The change in the ASMR ratio of RA-ILD to RA differed between men and women, trending downward in women and upward in men. Arthropathies and ILD were the two most frequent UCDs for RA-ILD, while the most frequent UCDs for RA were arthropathies and ischaemic heart disease. Conclusions: Although both RA and RA-ILD showed a downward trend in mortality, RA combined with ILD may reduce patient life span. Specifically, the mortality rate for RA-ILD remained relatively stable during the study period when ILD was the UCD, which suggests the necessity of devoting resources to active prevention, early diagnosis, and effective management of RA-ILD.
Microscopic Polyangitis in Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Unique Presentation of Pulmonary - Renal Syndrome and Case Report of an Overlap Syndrome
Authors: Zhang Chen-xing , Yin Lei , Mao You-ying , Zhou Zheng-yu , Qin He , Zhou Wei
Published: June 2020

Background: Secondary vasculitis is encountered in about one third of all cases of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Skin is most commonly involved in lupus-related small vasculitis. Although antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA) associated vasculitis (AAV) is relatively uncommon, it can be the most dangerous manifestation associated with high mortality. SLE and AAV are separate diseases with different pathophysiologies and an overlap syndrome has only been reported few times in previous literature.
Case Presentation: We present a unique case of a pediatric patient of pulmonary-renal syndrome, presenting with pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. Serological and biopsy findings were suggestive of SLE and AAV occurring simultaneously. Renal biopsy demonstrated necrotizing and crescentic glomerulonephritis, superimposed on diffuse segmental proliferative lupus glomerulonephritis class IV.
Conclusions: Presentations of autoimmune diseases and vasculitis can be multi-systemic. Considering overlap syndromes, especially in patients with underlying connective tissue disease or systemic vasculitis, is vital for prompt therapy and prevention of morbidity in this population.
KONTRIBUSI VIRTUAL LABORATORY PADA PEMBELAJARAN TITRASI ASAM-BASA DENGAN PREDICT-OBSERVE-EXPLAIN TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR DAN KETERAMPILAN BERPIKIR KRITIS
Authors: Sari Hanifah Kartika , Harjono Harjono , Sumarni Woro , Nuswowati Murbangun
Published: June 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kontribusi media virtual laboratory dalam model pembelajaran Predict-Observe-Explain (POE) terhadap hasil belajar dan keterampilan berpikir kritis peserta didik pada materi titrasi asam-basa. Penelitian menggunakan desain quasi experimental dengan pretest-posttest control group design yang dilaksanakan di SMA Negeri 12 Semarang. Objek penelitian adalah peserta didik kelas XI IPA 3 sebagai kelas kontrol dan XI IPA 5 sebagai kelas eksperimen. Pada kelas eksperimen dilakukan pembelajaran dengan model POE dan pemanfaatan virtual laboratory disertai demonstrasi sedangkan pada kelas kontrol dilakukan pembelajaran dengan model POE disertai demonstrasi. Kedua kelas kemudian melakukan praktikum riil di laboratorium Kimia. Pengamatan dan analisis dilakukan pada hasil belajar yang terdiri dari 3 aspek yaitu aspek kognitif, afektif, dan psikomotorik, dan Keterampilan Berpikir Kritis (KBK) dari kedua kelas tersebut. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terdapat perbedaan rata-rata hasil belajar dan keterampilan berpikir kritis antara kelas eksperimen dan kelas kontrol pada pembelajaran POE berbantuan virtual laboratory. Kontribusi virtual laboratory terhadap hasil belajar sebesar 16,99%, sedangkan kontribusi virtual laboratory terhadap keterampilan berpikir kritis sebesar 12,66%.
RANCANG BANGUN ALAT PENDETEKSI SUHU DAN KELEMBABAN BERBASIS NODEMCU PADA BUDIDAYA JAMUR TIRAM
Authors: Rohim Ahmad Minanur , Sulhadi Sulhadi , Darsono Teguh
Published: June 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan menghasilkan alat pendeteksi suhu dan kelembaban terintegrasi dengan internet berbasis NodeMCU melalui WEB sebagai media informasi pada budidaya jamur tiram. Alat pendeteksi suhu dan kelembaban telah dikembangkan dengan mengkombinasikan sensor DHT11, NodeMCU, dan sketch program Arduino IDE sebagai pengirim data ke WEB dan relay sebagai saklar pompa. Hasil eksperimen telah memperlihatkan data pada WEB serta relay dapat menyalakan pompa saat alat mendeteksi kelembaban 80% dapat menyirami rak jamur tiram sedangkan saat alat mendeteksi kelembaban 80% relay mematikan pompa dan hasil panen tanpa perlakuan rata-rata perhari 1kg sedangkan dengan perlakuan rata-rata perhari 2kg. Demikian dapat disimpulkan alat pendeteksi suhu dan kelembaban mampu memberikan informasi dan membantu menaikkan hasil panen petani jamur tiram.
Evolutionary algorithms, swarm intelligence methods, and their applications in water resources engineering: a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Janga Reddy M. , Nagesh Kumar D.
Published: June 2020

During the last three decades, the water resources engineering field has received a tremendous increase in the development and use of meta-heuristic algorithms like evolutionary algorithms (EA) and swarm intelligence (SI) algorithms for solving various kinds of optimization problems. The efficient design and operation of water resource systems is a challenging task and requires solutions through optimization. Further, real-life water resource management problems may involve several complexities like nonconvex, nonlinear and discontinuous functions, discrete variables, a large number of equality and inequality constraints, and often associated with multi-modal solutions. The objective function is not known analytically, and the conventional methods may face difficulties in finding optimal solutions. The issues lead to the development of various types of heuristic and meta-heuristic algorithms, which proved to be flexible and potential tools for solving several complex water resources problems. This paper provides a review of state-of-the-art methods and their use in planning and management of hydrological and water resources systems. It includes a brief overview of EAs (genetic algorithms, differential evolution, evolutionary strategies, etc.) and SI algorithms (particle swarm optimization, ant colony optimization, etc.), and applications in the areas of water distribution networks, water supply, and wastewater systems, reservoir operation and irrigation systems, watershed management, parameter estimation of hydrological models, urban drainage and sewer networks, and groundwater systems monitoring network design and groundwater remediation. This paper also provides insights, challenges, and need for algorithmic improvements and opportunities for future applications in the water resources field, in the face of rising problem complexities and uncertainties.
Lead-resistant bacteria isolated from oil wastewater sample for bioremediation of lead
Authors: Utami U. , Harianie L. , Dunyana N. R. , Romaidi
Published: June 2020

Anthropogenic activities such as oil exploration have resulted in an environmental concern as they are comprised of residual hydrocarbons and metals. Following the hypothesis that endogenous bacterial communities have enhanced tolerance to heavy metals, we isolated and characterized culturable lead-resistant bacteria from an oil wastewater sample and determined whether they could reduce lead ions from the medium. The wastewater sample containing indigenous bacteria were taken out from a traditional oil field, Bojonegoro District, East Java, Indonesia, and bacteria were cultured Halomonas complex (HMC) medium containing lead (II) chloride (PbCl2) with different concentrations. Bioaccumulation of lead by heavy-metals resistant bacteria was determined by using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). Our result found 21 bacterial strains that resist lead ions, of which one strain (RPb5-3) highly resisted to 10 mM. This bacterial strain also exhibited the highest accumulation of Pb, and it could grow at various temperatures, or more than their original environment. The bacterial strains could be used for bioremediation of lead toxicity, especially in oil pollutants.
Novel Therapeutic Approaches and Targets for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Pescitelli Leonardo , Rosi Elia , Ricceri Federica , Pimpinelli Nicola , Prignano Francesca
Published: June 2020

Background:

Atopic Dermatitis is one of the most common inflammatory skin diseases,
with an estimated prevalence of 2.1-4.9% in adults.
Recently, advances in Atopic Dermatitis understanding have highlighted the role of inappropriate Th2
cell activation as principally involved in its pathogenesis. Other immune pathways seem to play a key
role in the complex Atopic Dermatitis pathophysiology.
The anti-IL-4/IL-13 was the first monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of moderate to
severe atopic dermatitis in adult patients whose disease is resistant to other therapies.
Following its interesting results in terms of efficacy and safety, new therapies are in development.

Methods:

Monoclonal antibodies targeting IL-5, IL-13, IL-17, IL-22, IL-23, IL-31 and TSLP are currently
under investigation on patients with moderate to severe Atopic Dermatitis patients. Moreover,
small molecules like anti-PDE4 and JAK inhibitors may also represent other treatment possibilities.

Results:

In this section, we present data available on the efficacy and safety of newer molecules for the
treatment of Atopic Dermatitis.

Conclusion:

The extreme clinical heterogeneity and the chronic progression of Atopic Dermatitis need
for newer, safer and more effective treatments, able to control the disease and to improve the quality of
life of affected patients. Dupilumab, and the other monoclonal antibodies and small molecules currently
under investigation aim to improve the clinical management of Atopic Dermatitis.
Icariin Accelerates Fracture Healing via Activation of the WNT1/β-catenin Osteogenic Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Yun , Chen Yue-Ping , Zhang Chi , Zhang Xuan , Xia Tian , Han Jie , Yang Nan , Song Shi-Lei , Xu Can-Hong
Published: June 2020

Background:

Icariin has been shown to enhance bone formation.

Objective:

The present study aimed to investigate whether icariin also promotes bone fracture healing
and its mechanisms.

Methods:

First, we isolated and cultured rat bone marrow stromal cells (rBMSCs) with icariincontaining
serum at various concentrations (0%, 2.5%, 5% and 10%) and then measured alkaline
phosphatase (ALP) activity and the expression of Core-binding factor, alpha 1 (Cbfα1), bone morphogenetic
protein-2 (BMP-2) and bone morphogenetic protein-4 (BMP-4) in the rBMSCs. Second, we
established a model of fracture healing in rats and performed gavage treatment for 20 days. Then, we
detected bone biochemical markers (ELISA kits) in the serum, fracture healing (digital radiography,
DR), and osteocalcin expression (immunohistochemistry).

Results:

Icariin treatment increased ALP activity and induced the expression of Cbfα1, BMP-2 and
BMP-4 in rBMSCs in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, Icariin increased the serum levels of osteocalcin
(OC), bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP), N-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen
(NTX-1), C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-1) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b
(TRACP-5b); promoted osteocalcin secretion at the fracture site; and accelerated fracture healing.

Conclusions:

Icariin can promote the levels of bone-formation markers, accelerate fracture healing, and
activate the WNT1/β-catenin osteogenic signaling pathway.
Short Protecting Group-free Syntheses of CDE Synthon of Racemic Camptothecin
Authors: Shao Pingxuan , Lu Wei , Wang Lei
Published: June 2020

A practical and concise total synthesis of tricyclic ketone 7 (CDE ring), a valuable intermediate for the
synthesis of racemic camptothecin and analogs, was described (8 chemical steps and 29% overall yield). The
synthesis starts with two inexpensive, readily available materials and is operationally simple to perform. It is
worth mentioning that the reported protecting group-free synthesis, with advantages of a short route, would be
helpful for the future development of industry-scale syntheses of camptothecin-family alkaloids.
The Burden of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in the Middle East: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Focusing on Primary Prevention
Authors: Bhagavathula Akshaya Srikanth , Shehab Abdullah , Ullah Anhar , Rahmani Jamal
Published: June 2020

Background:

The increasing incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) threatens the Middle
Eastern population. Several epidemiological studies have assessed CVD and its risk factors in terms of
the primary prevention of CVD in the Middle East. Therefore, summarizing the information from these
studies is essential.

Aim:

We conducted a systematic review to assess the prevalence of CVD and its major risk factors
among Middle Eastern adults based on the literature published between January 1, 2012, and December
31, 2018, and carried out a meta-analysis.

Methods:

We searched electronic databases such as PubMed/Medline, ScienceDirect, Embase and
Google Scholar to identify literature published from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2018. All the
original articles that investigated the prevalence of CVD and reported at least one of the following factors
were included: hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidaemia, smoking and family history of CVD. To
summarize CVD prevalence, we performed a random-effects meta-analysis.

Results:

A total of 41 potentially relevant articles were included, and 32 were included in the metaanalysis
(n=191,979). The overall prevalence of CVD was 10.1% (95% confidence interval (CI): 7.1-
14.3%, p<0.001) in the Middle East. A high prevalence of CVD risk factors, such as dyslipidaemia
(43.3%; 95% CI: 21.5-68%), hypertension (26.2%; 95% CI: 19.6-34%) and diabetes (16%; 95% CI: 9.9-
24.8%), was observed. The prevalence rates of other risk factors, such as smoking (12.4%; 95% CI: 7.7-
19.4%) and family history of CVD (18.7%; 95% CI: 15.4-22.5%), were also high.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of CVD is high (10.1%) in the Middle East. The burden of dyslipidaemia
(43.3%) in this region is twice as high as that of hypertension (26.2%) and diabetes mellitus (16%).
Multifaceted interventions are urgently needed for the primary prevention of CVD in this region.
Pharmacovigilance Assessment of Cardiac Implications of Nicotine Replacement Therapy Among Smokers
Authors: Olawuyi Oluwafemi , Mathieson Kathleen
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

The purpose of this quantitative comparative study was to examine the possible
relationship between nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and cardiac disorder risk by comparing
the rates of cardiac disorder risk of NRT with cardiac disorder risk of non-replacement drugs among
smokers seeking smoking cessation.

Methods:

The study used retrospective quantitative design, which involved the collection of secondary
data from the adverse event reporting system (FAERS) database of the U.S Food and Drug
Administration (FDA). Rates of cardiac disorder were compared between the NRT group and non-
NRT (varenicline and bupropion) group. Statistical analyses involved using a 2x2 contingency table
and logistic regression to calculate odds ratio (reporting odds ratio (ROR)).

Results and Discussion:

Unadjusted ROR was 0.45 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.28, 0.70). With
age and sex as confounding factors, the smokers in the NRT group still had lower odds of having
cardiac disorder risk than the non-NRT group (adjusted ROR=0.44, 95% CI 0.28, 0.70).

Conclusion:

Our study findings showed lower cardiac disorder risk with the NRT group compared
to the non-NRT (varenicline and bupropion) group. While the study did not aim to undermine either
using NRT or non-NRT for smoking cessation therapy to prevent smoking illness, the study results
offer informed findings that could potentially improve current smoking cessation management using
NRT intervention among smokers and enhance smokers’ health outcome. Despite the negative signal
detection of cardiac disorder risk with NRT as compared to non-NRT in final findings, we still
recommend further research on the causal relationship between NRT and non-NRT and cardiac disorder
risk.
Antimicrobial Activities of Satureja khuzestanica Jamzad; A Review
Authors: Mahmoudvand Hossein , Ezatpour Behrouz , Masoori Leila , Marzban Abdolrazagh , Moghaddam Ali , Shahzamani Kiana , Malekara Vahid , Cheraghipour Kourosh
Published: June 2020

:

Satureja khuzestanica Jamzad is a species native to Iran and is highly important in
Southwestern regions. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and grows in different climates. A number
of pharmacological properties such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-thyroid, antioxidant,
and diuretic have been attributed to this plant.

:

In recent years, a wide range of biological properties, extract, and essential oil of Satureja khuzestanica
has been studied by researchers. In the present study, Scopus, SID, ISI, Google Scholar, and
PubMed indices were used to extract research articles. No publication time constraint was considered,
and the keyword “Satureja khuzestanica” was used to search articles. All extracted articles
were examined by two expert researchers and those on the biologic and fundamental science properties
of this plan entered the study. Results showed that S. khuzestanica has extensive research and
medicinal applications. Considering the economic and medical importance of S. khuzestanica, it is
hoped that more extensive studies can be conducted in the future on the use of compounds and derivatives
of this plant in order to obtain herbal medications to treat pathogens in human and animal.
The Influence of Dental Occlusion on Spectrophotometric Tooth Color Determinations
Authors: Mazur Marta , Westland Stephen , Jedliński Maciej , Maruotti Antonello , Nardi Gianna Maria , Ottolenghi Livia , Guerra Fabrizio
Published: June 2020

Background:

Shade matching is a significant treatment step and a challenge for the clinical team with potentially high costs for color correction. Currently, in the United States, the majority of private dental practitioners use visual color matching, but a recent study has reported a high rate of mistakes of subjective color determination among graduate dentists.

Objective:

The aim of this retrospective study is to analyze whether a change in the oral background due to dental occlusion can influence tooth color determination.

Methods:

Volunteer dental students underwent spectrophotometric color assessment using the SpectroShade device. Two measurements were carried out (with the individuals’ occlusion closed and with the occlusion open) on 43 upper central and 58 lateral incisors. Association between colorimetric variables L*, a*, b* and ΔE00 and tooth width, length and tobacco usage were examined.

Results:

Slight changes in the CIELAB values between closed and open occlusions were found for both the gingival and the central sections as for the overall tooth area, with mean ΔL*=-1.24, Δa*=-1.77, Δb*=-1.42 and ΔE00=1,84. A larger difference was detected in the incisal area, with mean ΔL*=-2.99, Δa*=-1.76, Δb*=-2.83 and ΔE00=3.65.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our study showed that dental occlusion does not play a significant role in tooth color matching determinations, even though attention to avoid overbite due to a maximum intercuspation should be made.
The Relationship Between Personality Traits and Coping Strategies in a Sample of Siblings of People With and Without Intellectual Disability: The Mediating Role of Sibling Relationship Quality
Authors: Scigala Dawid K. , Fabris Matteo A. , Longobardi Claudio
Published: June 2020

Background:

The quality of sibling relationships is an important factor in the development of individuals, particularly in the context of a relationship with a brother or sister with disabilities.

Aims:

This research aims to assess the moderating role of the quality of the relationship with siblings between personality traits and coping strategies.

Methods:

The participants were 187 adults, of whom 97(51.9%) were Individuals with brothers or sisters with intellectual disabilities (S-IDs), aged 18 to 60 years (M=30.22; SD=12.17). The second group was 90 (48.1%) Individuals with typical developmental siblings (S-TDs) aged 18 to 76 years (M=28.56; SD=11.66). Respondents completed the Big Five Questionnaire (BFQ), the Coping Orientation to Problem Experiences (COPE), and the Adult Sibling Relationships Questionnaire (ASRQ).

Results:

The data show a correlation between personality traits and coping strategies. In addition, the size of the ASRQ was found to moderate the relationship between personality traits and coping strategies, albeit in a different way between the two groups.

Conclusion:

The quality of the reality with brothers or sisters turns out to be an important factor in the development, and it is found to mediate the relationship between personality traits and the development of coping strategies, both in S-TDs and S-IDs, presenting similarities and differences. Future research guidelines have been discussed.
Study on the "Phase Hopping" AC-AC Frequency Conversion Method with Approximately Continuous Frequencies
Authors: Xu Zhengwang , Jiang Guozhuang , Kun Ke , Yi Yuchun
Published: June 2020

Background:

The output voltage frequency for the previously proposed "phase hopping"
AC-AC frequency conversion technology is determined by the law that the number of output voltage
cycles is reduced by one relative to the power frequency in a large cycle containing six jumps.
According to the law, only a limited number of output frequencies, such as 37.5 Hz, 42.86 Hz and
45 Hz are found. Due to the large spacing between the output frequencies, the "phase hopping" frequency
conversion technology is difficult to put into practical use.

Methods:

In this paper, the law of the output frequency control is generalized so that the number of
output cycles in a large cycle is reduced by n relative to the power frequency. The analysis shows
that the appropriate selection of large cycles, including the number of power frequency cycles and
the value of n, can find more frequencies to be used. Reducing the interval between the output frequencies
within 1Hz.

Results:

The analysis results were verified in simulation by MATLAB, and the harmonics and the
feasibility of the actual application were analyzed.

Conclusion:

Finally, an experimental platform was built and an experimental analysis was carried
out. The experimental results show that the theoretical and simulation analyses are correct.
Az egészségvédő hatás szerepe a lakosság élelmiszer-vásárlásában
Authors: T Nagy-Pető Dorka
Published: June 2020

Hazánkban, csakúgy, mint a fejlődő országok többségében, a megjelenő civilizációs betegségek nem csupán egyéni költségekként, hanem a társadalombiztosítási kiadások révén nemzetgazdasági kiadási oldalról is nagy értékben realizálhatóak. A civilizációs betegségek elterjedésének fő rizikófaktorai között a nem megfelelő élelmiszerfogyasztás, a fizikai aktivitás hiánya és a genetikai adottságok is megjelennek. Jelen kutatás témája az egészségvédő élelmiszerek szerepe a mindennapi táplálkozásban és a lakosság élelmiszer vásárlásában, amely a fent leírtaknak megfelelően aktuális kérdésekkel és problémafelvetésekkel foglalkozik.
A sötét hármas megjelenése egyetemi hallgatók körében
Authors: Ujhelyi Mária
Published: June 2020

Az elmúlt évtizedek személyiség kutatásában előkelő helyet foglal el az úgynevezett „Sötét Hármas” – nárcizmus machiavellizmus, és pszichopátia – vizsgálata. E társadalmilag nemkívánatos, de mindenkiben bizonyos mértékig meglévő jellemvonásoknak a munka világában is jelentős szerepe van. Dark Triad tagnak tekinti a szakirodalom azokat, akik mindhárom jellemzőben erősek. Tanulmányomban a Debreceni Egyetem Gazdaságtudományi Karának hallgatói körében, e „Sötét Hármas” (Dark Triad) mérésére kidolgozott, validált Dirty Dozen kérdőív felhasználásával végzett vizsgálat eredményeit mutatom be. Kutatásomban arra keresem a választ, hogy milyen mértékben jelennek meg ilyen személyiségvonások az általam vizsgált sokaságban. Kimutathatók-e különbségek a háttér változóktól (kor, nem, szak…) függően? Az eredmények összhangban állnak-e a nemzetközi kutatásokban leírtakkal?