bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inovasi Pembelajaran Moderasi Beragama Melalui Media Kreatif pada Sekolah Umum/Madrasah di Kabupaten Bone
Authors: Mujizatullah Mujizatullah
Published: November 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana inovasi pembelajaran moderasi beragama melalui media kreatif. Penelitian ini deskriktif kualitatif. Hasil penelitian: media kreatif yang digunakan dalam pembelajaran moderasi beragama di SMA 1, dominan guru menggunakan media tatap maya dan non-tatap maya. Ketika pembelajaran non-tatap maya, pada kegiatan pembelajaran pendahuluan, guru dominan menggunakan media visual dengan aplikasi google form untuk mengecek kehadiran siswa. Pada kegiatan inti menggunakan media Visual melalui aplikasi padlet, untuk mengunggah materi dan tugas. Keunggulan aplikasi Padlet karena lebih mudah dimanfaatkan peserta didik kemudian lebih efisien dari penggunaan data internet, aplikasi tersebut memudahkan peserta didik untuk saling berinteraksi karena semua berbasis daring, peserta didik dapat berinovasi dan memilih templete yang ada. Pada kegiatan evaluasi, dominan guru menggunakan aplikasi quisizz untuk ulangan harian. Pembelajaran tatap maya, guru menggunakan zoom meet dan google meet. Penggunaan media kreatif di kalangan guru sekolah dan madrasah dominan menggunakan media yang sama hanya aplikasi padlet yang belum di gunakan di Madrasah. Intensitas penggunaan media online di kalangan guru Sekolah dan Madrasah meningkat dalam masa pandemi 85 % sebelumnya hanya 45%, namun efektifitas kegiatan jam pembelajaran berkurang waktunya maksimal hanya 30 menit setiap jam pembelajaraan, karena durasi pembelajaran dengan tatap maya dibatasi untuk efisiensi penggunaan data internet siswa, sehingga pembelajaran kurang maksimal, ketercapaian pembelajaran hanya maksimal 75 persen dari seluruh materi yang diajarkan. Media offline dominan guru menggunakan buku-buku pelajaran yang ada di perpustakaan sekolah, surat kabar, majalah serta lingkungan sekolah.
Pengembangan Buku Ajar Metode Numerik Berbasis Pembelajaran Kolaboratif
Authors: Purwati Ni Kadek Rini , Erawati Ni Ketut
Published: November 2021

AbstrakBuku ajar metode numerik haruslah memuat gambaran lengkap materi dan lebih menekankan pada implementasi metode, sehingga dapat menciptakan pembelajaran yang aktif dan interaktif. Penerapan pembelajaran kolaboratif yang diintegrasikan melalui buku ajar metode numerik akan menciptakan suasana pembelajaran yang mendorong mahasiswa untuk saling berinteraksi, bekerjasama, berbagi peran, tugas, dan tanggung jawab dalam menyelesaikan tugas atau masalah. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengembangkan buku ajar metode numerik berbasis pembelajaran kolaboratif yang valid, praktis, dan efektif. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian pengembangan Model Plomp yang terdiri dari tiga fase, yakni fase penelitian awal, fase membuat prototipe, dan fase penilaian dimana pada fase ini dilakukan uji validitas berdasarkan lembar validasi, kepraktisan berdasarkan angket respon dan keefektifan berdasarkan lembar observasi dan tes. Subjek penelitian adalah mahasiswa program studi pendidikan matematika IKIP PGRI Bali. Hasil yang diperoleh adalah buku yang dikembangkan layak digunakan, kepraktisan tergolong baik dan buku ajar metode numerik efektif digunakan dalam perkuliahan.Kata Kunci: Buku Ajar, Pembelajaran Kolaboratif, Penelitian Pengembangan  Development of Numerical Methods Textbook Based on Collaborative LearningAbstractNumerical method textbooks must contain a complete description of the material and put more emphasis on the implementation of the method, to create active and interactive learning. The application of collaborative learning that is integrated through numerical methods textbooks will create a learning atmosphere that encourages students to interact, collaborate, share roles, assignments, and responsibilities in solving assignments or problems. The purpose of this research is to develop a valid, practical, and effective numerical method textbook based on collaborative learning. This research is research on the development of the Plomp Model which consists of three phases, namely the preliminary research phase, the prototyping phase, and the assessment phase wherein this phase the validity test is carried out based on the validation sheet, the practicality is based on the response questionnaire and the effectiveness is based on the observation sheet and the test. The research subjects were students of the mathematics education study program at the IKIP PGRI Bali. The results obtained are that the book developed is suitable for use, the practicality is good and the numerical method textbook is effectively used in lectures.Keywords: Collaborative Learning, Development Research, Textbook.
Kemampuan Pemodelan Matematis dalam Menyelesaikan Soal Matematika Kontekstual
Authors: Khusna Hikmatul , Ulfah Syafika
Published: November 2021

AbstrakKemampuan guru menghadirkan soal-soal yang memiliki konteks kehidupan sehari-hari sangat dibutuhkan dalam kelas. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan dan menganalisis kemampuan pemodelan matematis siswa dalam menyelesaikan soal matematika kontekstual. Penelitan ini dirasa penting untuk dikaji karena tuntutan pembelajaran yang mengharuskan siswa tidak hanya pandai berhitung tetapi dapat mengaplikasikan matematika dalam kehidupan, sehingga kemampuan pemodelan matematika sebagai jembatan antara masalah matematika dan masalah nyata dirasa penting untuk dimiliki oleh siswa. Subjek penelitian diberikan instrumen berupa soal matematika kontekstual, kemudian peneliti menganalisis hasil kerja subjek serta melakukan wawancara subjek terkait hasil pengerjaan instrumen tersebut. Dari hasil penelitian ini disimpulkan bahwa kemampuan pemodelan matematis siswa beragam, tidak bergantung pada kemampuan matematika siswa tinggi, sedang, rendah; masih ada siswa yang tidak membuat pemodelan matematis karena tidak memahami soal yang diberikan; pemodelan gambar yang dibuat oleh siswa beragam namun sebagian besar masih kurang tepat dalam membuat pemodelan gambar sesuai dengan permasalahan yang diberikan; kemampuan siswa dalam membuat pemodelan matematis sebagian besar masih kurang. Mathematical Modeling Ability in Solving Contextual Mathematical ProblemsAbstractThe teacher's ability to present questions that have the context of everyday life is needed in the classroom. This study aims to describe and analyze students' mathematical modeling abilities in solving contextual math problems. This research is considered important to study because the demands of learning require students not only to be good at arithmetic but also to be able to apply mathematics in life, the ability of mathematical modeling as a bridge between mathematical problems and real problems is considered important for students to have. The research subject was given an instrument in the form of a contextual math problem, then the researcher analyzed the subject's work and conducted subject interviews related to the results of working on the instrument. The results are mathematical modeling abilities of students varied, it did not depend on high, medium, low students' mathematical abilities; There are still students who do not make mathematical modeling because they don't understand the questions given; the forms of image modeling made by students are still diverse but most of them are still inaccurate in making image modeling according to the problems give and making mathematical modeling is still lacking.
Pengembangan Alat Peraga Papan Positif Negatif Berbasis Metode Montessori pada Siswa dengan ADHD
Authors: Susiaty Utin Desy , Firdaus Muhamad , Andriati Novi
Published: November 2021

AbstrakHambatan guru dalam menyampaikan materi adalah kurangnya penggunaan benda-benda konkrit dalam setiap pembelajaran. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengetahui: (1) rancangan dan implementasi alat peraga papan positif negatif berbasis metode montessori pada siswa dengan ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder); dan (2) sejauh mana kelayakan alat peraga papan positif negatif berbasis metode montessori ini dalam membantu siswa dengan ADHD. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian pengembangan menurut Borg & Gall. Subjek dalam penelitian dan pengembangan alat peraga ini adalah siswa-siswi pada salah satu SLB yang terdapat di Kota Pontianak tahun ajaran 2020-2021 dan guru mata pelajaran matematika. Data penelitian diperoleh berdasarkan penilaian oleh pakar/ahli terhadap alat peraga. Hasil penelitian adalah: (1) rancangan dan implementasi alat peraga papan positif negatif berbasis metode montessori pada siswa dengan ADHD memenuhi kriteria valid sebagai media pembelajaran berupa alat peraga dengan kategori sangat valid; (2) alat peraga papan positif negatif berbasis metode montessori layak sebagai media pembelajaran dalam membantu siswa dengan ADHD. Hasil penelitian digunakan sebagai sumbangan pemikiran bagi guru maupun calon guru pendidikan matematika untuk selalu melakukan inovasi dalam pembelajaran matematika demi tercapainya tujuan pembelajaran siswa sekolah umum maupun SLB. Development of Montessori Method-Based Positive Negative Board Props for Students with ADHDAbstractThe teacher's obstacle in delivering the material is the lack of using concrete objects in every lesson. The research aims to look at: (1) the design and implementation of positive-negative board props based on the Montessori method in students with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder); and (2) the appropriateness of this Montessori method based positive board props in helping students with ADHD. This research is development research according to Borg & Gall. The subjects in the research and development of this teaching aid are students at one of the special schools in Pontianak City for the 2020-2021 academic year and teachers of mathematics. Research data based on the results by experts/experts on teaching aids. The results of the study were: (1) The design and implementation of positive board props based on the Montessori method for students with ADHD met the valid criteria as learning media in the form of teaching aids with very valid categories; (2) the positive board props based on the negative Montessori method are feasible as a learning medium in helping students with ADHD. The results of the research are used as a contribution of thought for teachers or prospective mathematics education teachers to always innovate in mathematics learning to achieve the learning objectives of students in public schools and special schools.
Analisis Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Siswa Berdasarkan Kemampuan Awal Matematika
Authors: Suryani Mulia , Jufri Lucky Heriyanti , Putri Tika Artia
Published: November 2021

AbstrakRendahnya kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematika siswa menyebabkan siswa kurang mampu menyelesaikan soal yang bersifat non rutin dan siswa masih kurang mengembangkan ide dan kemampuan yang dimilikinya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematika siswa melalui model Problem Based Learning berdasarkan Kemampuan Awal Matematika (KAM) siswa. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematika siswa melalui model Problem Based Learning menjadi lebih baik. Sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas VIII-7 SMP Negeri 12 Padang yang terdiri dari 32 orang. Siswa yang awalnya berkemampuan rendah meningkat menjadi siswa berkemampuan sedang dengan peningkatan sebesar 75 %. Siswa yang awalnya tergolong berkemampuan sedang meningkat menjadi siswa berkemampuan tinggi sebesar 26 %. Siswa sudah mampu 1) memahami masalah, 2) menyusun rencana penyelesaian, 3) melaksanakan penyelesaian, dan 4) mengecek kembali jawaban. Analysis of Students' Problem Solving Abilities Based on Early Mathematical Ability AbstractThe lack of students' mathematical problem-solving skills causes students to be less able to solve problems that are non-routine and students are still lacking in developing their ideas and abilities. This study aims to determine students 'mathematical problem-solving abilities through the Problem Based Learning model based on students' Early Mathematical Ability (KAM). The research method used is qualitative. The results of this study indicate that students' mathematical problem-solving abilities through the Problem Based Learning model are better. The sample in this study were students of class VIII-7 Middle School 12 Padang consisting of 32 people. Students who were initially low-skilled increased to moderate-capable students with an increase of 75%. Students who were initially classified as capable were increasing to high-ability students by 26%. Students can 1) understand the problem, 2) draw up a settlement plan, 3) carry out the solution, and 4) re-check the answers.
Perbedaan Peningkatan Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematis Siswa antara Think Pair Share dan Think Talk Write
Authors: Hanifah Hilmi Ramdayani Fauziah Nur , Nuraeni Reni
Published: November 2021

AbstrakPerlu adanya upaya guru untuk meningkatkan kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematis siswa, karena fakta di lapangan menunjukkan rendahnya kemampuan matematis siswa tersebut. Salah satunya penggunaan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Think Pair Share dan Think Talk Write. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk menganalisis perbedaan peningkatan kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematis siswa antara yang mendapatkan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Think Pair Share dan Think Talk Write. Metode penelitiannya adalah kuasi eksperimen. Populasi penelitian yaitu seluruh siswa kelas VII MTs Negeri 1 Garut, dengan sampel sebanyak dua kelas yang terdiri dari 46 siswa. Instrumen penelitian yang digunakan berupa tes uraian. Analisis data diawali dengan uji gain ternormalisasi, uji normalitas data gain ternormalisasi, kemudian uji Mann Whitney. Berdasarkan hasil analisis secara statistik diperoleh kesimpulan bahwa terdapat perbedaan peningkatan kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematis siswa antara yang mendapatkan model pembelajaran Think Pair Share dan Think Talk Write. The Differences in Improving Students of Mathematical Problem Solving Ability Between Think Pair Share and Think Talk Write AbstractTeachers need help to improve students 'mathematical problem-solving skills because the facts in the field show the students' low mathematical ability. One of them is the use of Think Pair Share and Think Talk Write cooperative learning models. This research was conducted to analyze the differences in the improvement of students' problem-solving skills between those who get the cooperative learning model Think Pair Share and Think Talk Write types. The research method is quasi-experiment. The study population was all grade VII students of MTs Negeri 1 Garut, with a sample of two classes consisting of 46 students. The research instrument used was a description test. Data analysis begins with the normalized gain test, the normalized normality gain data test, then the Mann Whitney test. Based on the analysis results obtained from the research results obtained from the comparison between students' mathematical problem solving between those who get the Think Pair Share learning model and Think Talk Write.
Pengembangan Soal Statistika Model PISA untuk Melatih Kemampuan Literasi Statistika Siswa
Authors: Junika Nielda , Izzati Nur , Tambunan Linda Rosmery
Published: November 2021

AbstrakPencapaian prestasi matematika siswa di Indonesia masih rendah, terlihat dari hasil studi PISA pada tahun 2015. Salah satu faktornya dikarenakan siswa kurang terlatih menyelesaikan soal berkarakteristik seperti soal PISA. Dibutuhkan suatu pengembangan soal yang mampu memberi ruang pada siswa untuk melatih kemampuan literasi matematis yang salah satunya yaitu kemampuan literasi statistika. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengembangkan soal statistika model PISA yang berkualitas untuk melatih kemampuan literasi statistika siswa. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan yaitu Research and Development dengan Model 4D (Four D). Subjek uji coba penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas VIII (8) B SMP Negeri 1 Bintan tahun pelajaran 2018/2019. Instrumen pengumpulan data yang digunakan yaitu instrumen untuk mengukur kevalidan soal dan lembar hasil uji coba. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan yaitu analisis data hasil validasi soal dan hasil uji coba. Penelitian ini menghasilkan tujuh (7) butir soal yang berkualitas yaitu valid, reliabel, daya pembeda dan tingkat kesukaran yang baik. Soal ini mampu menarik minat, memotivasi dan memberikan stimulus kepada subjek uji coba untuk memunculkan kemampuan literasi statistika siswa. Development of the Statistical Test Instrument PISA Model for practicing students' statistical literacy skillsAbstractThe achievement of the mathematics achievement of students in Indonesia is still low, it can be seen from the results of the PISA study in 2015. One of the factors is because students are not trained to solve problems with characteristics such as PISA questions. It takes a development of questions that can provide space for students to practice mathematical literacy, one of which is the ability of statistical literacy. This study aims to develop quality PISA model statistical problems to practice the statistical literacy skills of students. The type of research used was Research and Development with the 4D (Four D) Model. The subject of this research trial was grade VIII B students of SMP Negeri 1 Bintan in the academic year 2018/2019. Data collection instruments used were instruments to measure the validity of questions and test results sheets. The data analysis technique used is the analysis of the data validation of the questions and the results of the trial. This study produced 7 quality items namely valid, reliable, distinguishing features, and a good level of difficulty. This question is able to attract interest and motivate and provide stimulus to test subjects to bring up the statistical literacy skills of students.
Pengembangan Mobile Learning Barusikung Berbasis Android pada Materi Bangun Ruang Sisi Lengkung
Authors: Rachma Yesica Yesi , Setyadi Danang , Mampouw Helti Lygia
Published: November 2021

AbstrakMatematika merupakan salah satu pelajaran yang penting untuk dikuasai siswa di sekolah khususnya pada materi pemahaman bentuk dan ruang, meskipun demikian masih banyak siswa yang mengalami kesulitan dalam mempelajari materi tersebut. Hal inilah yang mendorong peneliti untuk mengembangkan suatu aplikasi Mobile learning pada materi Bangun Ruang Sisi Lengkung. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian pengembangan dengan menggunakan model ADDIE. Langkah-langkahnya terdiri dari: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, dan Evaluations. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa media yang dikembangkan valid dan praktis. Hasil uji coba terhadap 10 siswa menunjukkan bahwa media masuk dalam kategori baik. Selain itu Mobile learning mampu meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa, hal ini dapat dilihat dari hasil pretest dan posttest yang menunjukkan nilai signifikan. Mobile learning dapat membantu siswa memahami bentuk dan ruang pada materi Bangun Ruang Sisi Lengkung.  The Expansion of Mobile Learning Barusikung Base Android on Solid GeometryAbstractMathematics is one of the important subjects that students having to do in school especially to know shapes and geometry, although it is important to learn, many students still have difficulties in studying the material. It promotes the researcher to encourage an application of Mobile learning to solid geometry. This research is research and development using the ADDIE model. The step consists of Analysis, Design, Development, and Evaluations. The results show that the developed media is valid and practical. The trial results to ten students show that the media is good. The other than Mobile learning can increase students learning, it can be seen by pretest and posttest results that show significant value. Mobile learning can help students understand the form and space in the material of solid geometry.
Exact and Approximate Algorithms for Computing Betweenness Centrality in Directed Graphs
Authors: Chehreghani Mostafa Haghir , Bifet Albert , Abdessalem Talel
Published: November 2021

Graphs (networks) are an important tool to model data in different domains. Realworld graphs are usually directed, where the edges have a direction and they are not symmetric. Betweenness centrality is an important index widely used to analyze networks. In this paper, first given a directed network G and a vertex r ∈ V ( G), we propose an exact algorithm to compute betweenness score of r. Our algorithm pre-computes a set ℛ𝒱( r), which is used to prune a huge amount of computations that do not contribute to the betweenness score of r. Time complexity of our algorithm depends on |ℛ𝒱( r)| and it is respectively Θ(|ℛ𝒱( r)| · | E( G)|) and Θ(|ℛ𝒱( r)| · | E( G)| + |ℛ𝒱( r)| · | V( G)| log | V( G)|) for unweighted graphs and weighted graphs with positive weights. |ℛ𝒱( r)| is bounded from above by | V( G)| – 1 and in most cases, it is a small constant. Then, for the cases where ℛ𝒱( r) is large, we present a simple randomized algorithm that samples from ℛ𝒱( r) and performs computations for only the sampled elements. We show that this algorithm provides an ( ɛ, δ)-approximation to the betweenness score of r. Finally, we perform extensive experiments over several real-world datasets from different domains for several randomly chosen vertices as well as for the vertices with the highest betweenness scores. Our experiments reveal that for estimating betweenness score of a single vertex, our algorithm significantly outperforms the most efficient existing randomized algorithms, in terms of both running time and accuracy. Our experiments also reveal that our algorithm improves the existing algorithms when someone is interested in computing betweenness values of the vertices in a set whose cardinality is very small.
Time-free Solution to Independent Set Problem using P Systems with Active Membranes
Authors: Jin Yu , Song Bosheng , Li Yanyan , Zhu Ying
Published: November 2021

Membrane computing is a branch of natural computing aiming to abstract computing models from the structure and functioning of living cells. The computation models obtained in the field of membrane computing are usually called P systems. P systems have been used to solve computationally hard problems efficiently on the assumption that the execution of each rule is completed in exactly one time-unit (a global clock is assumed for timing and synchronizing the execution of rules). However, in biological reality, different biological processes take different times to be completed, which can also be influenced by many environmental factors. In this work, with this biological reality, we give a time-free solution to independent set problem using P systems with active membranes, which solve the problem independent of the execution time of the involved rules.
Edge Forcing in Butterfly Networks
Authors: Jessy Sujana G. , Rajalaxmi T.M. , Rajasingh Indra , Sundara Rajan R.
Published: November 2021

A zero forcing set is a set S of vertices of a graph G, called forced vertices of G, which are able to force the entire graph by applying the following process iteratively: At any particular instance of time, if any forced vertex has a unique unforced neighbor, it forces that neighbor. In this paper, we introduce a variant of zero forcing set that induces independent edges and name it as edge-forcing set. The minimum cardinality of an edge-forcing set is called the edge-forcing number. We prove that the edge-forcing problem of determining the edge-forcing number is NP-complete. Further, we study the edge-forcing number of butterfly networks. We obtain a lower bound on the edge-forcing number of butterfly networks and prove that this bound is tight for butterfly networks of dimensions 2, 3, 4 and 5 and obtain an upper bound for the higher dimensions.
Evaluation of molecular apoptosis signaling pathways and its correlation with EBV viral load in SLE patients using systems biology approach
Authors: Ghabeshi Soad , Najafi Ali , Zamani Batol , Soltani Mozhdeh , Arero Amanuel Godana , Izadi Shim , Piroozmand Ahmad
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND: Considerable evidence supports that SLE could be related to apoptotic cells and EBV infection. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify the transcriptional signature of EBV infection in SLE patients for survey of the molecular apoptosis signaling pathways. METHODS: The PBMCs gene expression profiles of healthy control and SLE patients were obtained from GEO. Functional annotation and signaling pathway enrichment were carried out using DAVID, KEGG. To validate bioinformatics analysis the changes in genes expression of some of obtained genes, Real time PCR was performed on PBMCs from 28 SLE patients and 18 controls. RESULTS: We found that mean viral load was 6013 ± 390.1 copy/μg DNA from PBMCs in all patients. QRT-PCR results showed that the expression of the DUSP1 and LAMP3 genes which had most changes in the logFC among 4 candidate genes, increased significantly in comparison with control. The consistent expression of LMP2 as viral latency gene involve in apoptosis signaling pathways was detected in SLE patients with EBV viral load and some controls. CONCLUSIONS: The study indicated that some cellular genes may have an important role in pathogenesis of SLE through apoptosis signaling pathways. Beside, EBV infection as an environmental risk factor for SLE may affect the dysfunction of apoptosis.
Intra-Individual Variability in Cognitive Performance Can Befuddle the Study of Cognitive Impairments and Decline
Authors: Zdanowski Szymon , Tieks Alieke , Jeronimus Bertus F. , Zuidersma Marij
Published: November 2021

Using group-aggregated results and snapshot assessments of cognitive performance may prove problematic if the assessed construct shows substantial and rapid variation over time. To illustrate the significance of this issue, we analyzed cognitive performance data of ten older adults undergoing daily computerized cognitive assessments (CogState Brief Battery) for 36–93 days. In all cases, the day-to-day intra-individual variability was substantial when compared with group-level, between-person variability. This indicates that the results of studies using single snapshot assessments of cognitive functioning should be interpreted with caution. Additionally, group-aggregated measures of cognitive performance may not directly extrapolate to an individual.
Alterations in T-Cell Transcription Factors and Cytokine Gene Expression in Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Neshan Masoud , Malakouti Seyed Kazem , Kamalzadeh Leila , Makvand Mina , Campbell Arezoo , Ahangari Ghasem
Published: November 2021

Background: Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) is associated with many environmental and genetic factors. The effect of systemic inflammation on the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD has been strongly suggested. T helper cells (Th) are one of the important components of the immune system and can easily infiltrate the brain in pathological conditions. The development of each Th-subset depends on the production of unique cytokines and their main regulator. Objective: This study aimed to compare the mRNA levels of Th-related genes derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of LOAD patients with control. Also, the identification of the most important Th1/Th2 genes and downstream pathways that may be involved in the pathogenesis of AD was followed by computational approaches. Methods: This study involved 30 patients with LOAD and 30 non-demented controls. The relative expression of T-cell cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-4, and IL-5) and transcription factors (T-bet and GATA-3) were assessed using Real-time PCR. Additionally, protein-protein interaction (PPI) was investigated by gene network construction. Results: A significant decrease at T-bet, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and GATA-3 mRNA levels was detected in the LOAD group, compared to the controls. However, there was no significant difference in IL-4 or IL-5 mRNA levels. Network analysis revealed a list of the highly connected protein (hubs) related to mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and Th17 cell differentiation pathways. Conclusion: The findings point to a molecular dysregulation in Th-related genes, which can promising in the early diagnosis or targeted interventions of AD. Furthermore, the PPI analysis showed that upstream off-target stimulation may involve MAPK cascade activation and Th17 axis induction.
Diet May Moderate the Relationship Between Arterial Stiffness and Cognitive Performance in Older Adults
Authors: Gauci Sarah , Young Lauren M. , White David J. , Reddan Jeffery M. , Lassemillante Annie-Claude , Meyer Denny , Pipingas Andrew , Scholey Andrew
Published: November 2021

Background: Cognitive decline is influenced by various factors including diet, cardiovascular disease, and glucose control. However, the combined effect of these risk factors on cognitive performance is yet to be fully understood. Objective: The current study aimed to explore the inter-relationship between these risk factors and cognitive performance in older adults at risk of future cognitive decline. Methods: The sample comprised 163 (Age: M = 65.23 years, SD = 6.50) participants. Food Frequency Questionnaire data was used to score diet quality and adherence to the Western Style Diet (WSD) and Prudent Style Diet (PSD). Glucose control was gauged by serum levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and arterial stiffness was measured using carotid to femoral pulse wave velocity. Cognitive performance was assessed using two subtests of the Swinburne University Computerized Cognitive Assessment Battery (SUCCAB) and Rey’s Verbal Learning Test (RVLT). Results: Diet quality, adherence to the WSD or PSD, and glucose control were not significantly related to cognitive outcomes. However, a significant negative association was found between arterial stiffness and the spatial working memory subtest of SUCCAB (β= –0.21, p < 0.05). Arterial stiffness also significantly interacted with the PSD to impact total recall (F change (1,134) = 5.37, p < 0.05) and the composite score of RVLT (F change (1,134) = 4.03, p < 0.05). Conclusion: In this sample of older adults at risk of cognitive decline, diet alone was not found to predict cognitive performance; however, it was found to moderate the relationship between arterial stiffness and cognition.
Epilepsy in Early Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Haoudy Sarah , Jonveaux Thérèse , Puisieux Salomé , Epstein Jonathan , Hopes Lucie , Maillard Louis , Aron Olivier , Tyvaert Louise
Published: November 2021

Background: Epilepsy seems to be an important comorbidity in patients with early onset Alzheimer’s disease (EOAD). Currently, seizures are still underestimated in this population. However, seizures may interact with AD evolution with possible acceleration of cognitive decline. Objective: To better define the epileptic disorders observed in patients with EOAD. Methods: All patients diagnosed as EOAD in our hospital between 2013 and 2019 with positive CSF biomarkers for AD were selected. The usual follow-up was extended with a 3-h EEG and a consultation with an epilepsy expert. Information on epilepsy and AD were collected and analyzed. Results: Among the 25 included patients, 10 (40%) were classified as epileptic. Seizure types were tonic-clonic (25%), typical temporal seizures (25%), myoclonus (25%), focal extra-temporal seizures (8%), and other seizure types (17%). AD-E patients had a significant lower MMSE (15.3±8.4 AD-E versus 22.1±5.1 AD-NE, p = 0.036) and a lower autonomy (IADL 4.1±2.7 AD-E versus 6.4±1.9 AD-NE, p = 0.046) at AD diagnosis with comparable ages between AD-E and AD-NE. Epileptic patients seemed to present a faster cognitive decline ([ΔMMSE per year 1.7±1.3 AD-E versus 0.9±1.4 AD-NE; p = 0.09). All patients with severe cognitive impairment (MMSE ≤ 10) had an epileptic comorbidity. Conclusion: Epilepsy is a frequent comorbidity in EOAD patients, with a percentage of 40%in our study. This comorbidity may be associated with a severe form of EOAD. The role of epilepsy in the acceleration of cognitive decline and the positive impact of antiepileptic drugs on cognition need further research.
Association of Superficial White Matter Alterations with Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers and Cognitive Decline in Neurodegenerative Dementia
Authors: Contarino Valeria Elisa , Siggillino Silvia , Arighi Andrea , Scola Elisa , Fumagalli Giorgio Giulio , Conte Giorgio , Rotondo Emanuela , Galimberti Daniela , Pietroboni Anna Margherita , Carandini Tiziana , Leemans Alexander , Bianchi Anna Maria , Triulzi Fabio Maria
Published: November 2021

Background: Superficial white matter (SWM) alterations correlated with cognitive decline have been described in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Objective: The study aims to extend the investigation of the SWM alterations to AD and non-AD neurodegenerative dementia (ND) and explore the relationship with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers and clinical data. Methods: From a database of 323 suspected dementia cases, we retrospectively recruited 55 ND with abnormal amyloid-β42 (AD) and 38 ND with normal amyloid-β42 (non-AD) and collected clinical data, CSF biomarkers, and magnetic resonance images. Ten healthy controls (HC) were recruited for imaging and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measurements were performed in the lobar SWM regions and Kruskal Wallis tests were used for among-group comparison. Spearman’s correlation tests were performed between DTI measures, CSF biomarkers, and clinical data. Results: AD and non-AD showed significant differences in the DTI measures across the SWM compared to HC. Significant differences between AD and non-AD were detected in the left parietal lobe. DTI measures correlated with amyloid-β42 and MMSE diffusely in the SWM, less extensively with total-tau and phosphorylated tau, and with disease duration in the parietal lobe bilaterally. Conclusion: Widespread SWM alterations occur in both AD and non-AD ND and AD shows appreciably more severe alterations in the parietal SWM. Notably, the alterations in the SWM are strongly linked not only to the cognitive decline but also to the diagnostic CSF biomarkers. Further studies are encouraged to evaluate the DTI measures in the SWM as in vivo non-invasive biomarkers in the preclinical phase.
Differential Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer’s Disease Is Predicted by Changes in Ventricular Size but Moderated by Apolipoprotein E and Pulse Pressure
Authors: Sapkota Shraddha , McFall G. Peggy , Masellis Mario , Dixon Roger A. , Black Sandra E.
Published: November 2021

Background: Differential cognitive trajectories in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) may be predicted by biomarkers from multiple domains. Objective: In a longitudinal sample of AD and AD-related dementias patients (n = 312), we tested whether 1) change in brain morphometry (ventricular enlargement) predicts differential cognitive trajectories, 2) further risk is contributed by genetic (Apolipoprotein E [APOE] ɛ4+) and vascular (pulse pressure [PP]) factors separately, and 3) the genetic + vascular risk moderates this pattern. Methods: We applied a dynamic computational approach (parallel process models) to test both concurrent and change-related associations between predictor (ventricular size) and cognition (executive function [EF]/attention). We then tested these associations as stratified by APOE (ɛ4–/ɛ4+), PP (low/high), and APOE+ PP (low/intermediate/high) risk. Results: First, concurrently, higher ventricular size predicted lower EF/attention performance and, longitudinally, increasing ventricular size predicted steeper EF/attention decline. Second, concurrently, higher ventricular size predicted lower EF/attention performance selectively in APOE ɛ4+ carriers, and longitudinally, increasing ventricular size predicted steeper EF/attention decline selectively in the low PP group. Third, ventricular size and EF/attention associations were absent in the high APOE+ PP risk group both concurrently and longitudinally. Conclusion: As AD progresses, a threshold effect may be present in which ventricular enlargement in the context of exacerbated APOE+ PP risk does not produce further cognitive decline.
Effect of Hypertension Duration and Blood Pressure Control During Early Adulthood on Cognitive Function in Middle Age
Authors: Zhou Haobin , Zhu Zongyuan , Liu Changsong , Bai Yujia , Zhan Qiong , Huang Xingfu , Zeng Qingchun , Ren Hao , Xu Dingli
Published: November 2021

Background: Elevated blood pressure (BP) is a risk factor for cognitive impairment. Objective: We aim to explore the association between the duration of hypertension in early adulthood, with cognitive function in midlife. Furthermore, we investigate whether this asssociation is altered among participants with controlled BP. Methods: This prospective study included 2,718 adults aged 18–30 years without hypertension at baseline who participated in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study. Duration of hypertension was calculated based on repeat measurements of BP performed at 2, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years after baseline. Cognitive function was assessed at Year-25 using the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), and Stroop test. Results: After multivariable adjustment, a longer hypertension duration was associated with worse verbal memory (RAVLT, p trend = 0.002) but not with processing speed (DSST, p trend = 0.112) and executive function (Stroop test, p trend = 0.975). Among subgroups of participants with controlled (BP < 140/90 mmHg) and uncontrolled (SBP≥140 mmHg or DBP≥90 mmHg) BP at the time of cognitive assessment (i.e., Year-25 BP), longer duration of hypertension was associated with worse verbal memory. Similar results were observed in subgroups with controlled and uncontrolled average BP prior to cognitive assessment. Conclusion: Longer duration of hypertension during early adulthood is associated with worse verbal memory in midlife regardless of current or long-term BP control status. The potential risk of hypertension associated cognitive decline should not be overlooked in individuals with a long duration of hypertension, even if BP levels are controlled.
Sociodemographic, Lifestyle, Physical, and Psychosocial Determinants of Cognitive Reserve
Authors: Zijlmans Jendé L. , Lamballais Sander , Vernooij Meike W. , Ikram M. Arfan , Luik Annemarie I.
Published: November 2021

Background: Cognitive reserve aims to explain individual differences in the susceptibility to the functional impact of dementia in the presence of equal amount of neuropathological damage. It is thought to be shaped by a combination of innate individual differences and lifetime exposures. Which determinants are associated with cognitive reserve remains unknown. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the associations of sociodemographic, lifestyle, physical, and psychosocial determinants with cognitive reserve, and potential sex differences. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 4,309 participants from the Rotterdam Study (mean age 63.9±10.7) between 2006–2016. Participants completed five cognitive tests and a brain MRI-scan. Cognitive reserve was defined as a latent variable that captures variance common across five cognitive tests, while adjusting for demographic and MRI-inferred neuropathological factors. The associations of potential determinants and cognitive reserve, adjusted for relevant confounders, were assessed with structural equation models. Results: Current smoking (adjusted mean difference: –0.31, 95%confidence interval –0.42; –0.19), diabetes mellitus (–0.25, –0.40; –0.10) and depressive symptoms (–0.07/SD, –0.12; –0.03) were associated with a lower cognitive reserve whereas alcohol use (0.07/SD, 0.03; 0.12) was associated with higher cognitive reserve. Only smoking was associated with cognitive reserve in both men and women. Employment, alcohol use, diabetes, history of cancer, COPD, and depressive symptoms were only associated with cognitive reserve in women. Conclusion: Our study found that current smoking, diabetes mellitus, and depressive symptoms were associated with a lower cognitive reserve, whereas more alcohol use was associated with a higher cognitive reserve, but with clear differences between men and women.
5-Hydroxymethylcytosine Signatures in Circulating Cell-Free DNA as Diagnostic Biomarkers for Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chen Lei , Shen Qianqian , Xu Shunliang , Yu Hongzhuan , Pei Shengjie , Zhang Yangting , He Xin , Wang QiuZhen , Li Duo
Published: November 2021

Background: 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) is an epigenetic DNA modification that is highly abundant in central nervous system. It has been reported that DNA 5hmC dysregulation play a critical role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology. Changes in 5hmC signatures can be detected in circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA), which has shown potential as a non-invasive liquid biopsy material. Objective: However, the genome-wide profiling of 5hmC in cfDNA and its potential for the diagnosis of AD has not been reported to date. Methods: We carried out a case-control study and used a genome-wide chemical capture followed by high-throughput sequencing to detect the genome-wide profiles of 5hmC in human cfDNA and identified differentially hydroxymethylated regions (DhMRs) in late-onset AD patients and the control. Results: We discovered significant differences of 5hmC enrichment in gene bodies which were linked to multiple AD pathogenesis-associated signaling pathways in AD patients compared with cognitively normal controls, indicating they can be well distinguished from normal controls by DhMRs in cfDNA. Specially, we identified 7 distinct genes (RABEP1, CPNE4, DNAJC15, REEP3, ROR1, CAMK1D, and RBFOX1) with predicting diagnostic potential based on their significant correlations with MMSE and MoCA scores of subjects. Conclusion: The present results suggest that 5hmC markers derived from plasma cfDNA can served as an effective, minimally invasive biomarkers for clinical auxiliary diagnosis of late-onset AD.
The Effect of Olfactory Training on Olfaction, Cognition, and Brain Function in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Chen Ben , Espin Melanie , Haussmann Robert , Matthes Claudia , Donix Markus , Hummel Thomas , Haehner Antje
Published: November 2021

Background: The olfactory system is affected very early in Alzheimer’s disease and olfactory loss can already be observed in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), an early stage of AD. Objective: The aim of this randomized, prospective, controlled, blinded study was to evaluate whether olfactory training (OT) may have an effect on olfactory function, cognitive impairment, and brain activation in MCI patients after a 4-month period of frequent short-term exposure to various odors. Methods: A total of 38 MCI outpatients were randomly assigned to OT or a control training condition, which were performed twice a day for 4 months. Olfactory testing, comprehensive neuropsychological assessment, and a passive odor perception task based on magnetic resonance imaging were performed before and after training. Results: The results suggested that OT exhibited no significant effect on olfaction and cognitive function. Additionally, OT exhibited a positive effect on frontal lobe activation (left middle frontal gyrus and orbital-frontal cortex) but exhibited no effect on grey matter volume. Moreover, the change of olfactory scores was positively associated with the change of frontal activation. Conclusion: OT was found to have a limited effect on olfaction and cognition in patients with MCI compared to a non-OT condition but increased their functional response to odors in frontal area.
Dengue Virus Infection and Risk of Parkinson’s Disease: A Nationwide Longitudinal Study
Authors: Hsu Tien-Wei , Chu Che-Sheng , Tsai Shih-Jen , Cheng Chih-Ming , Su Tung-Ping , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Bai Ya-Mei , Liang Chih-Sung , Chen Mu-Hong
Published: November 2021

Background: Increasing evidence suggests a potential relationship between viral infection and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Objective: Herein, we explore the association between infection by dengue virus and PD. Methods: Between 1997 and 2012, we recruited 1,422 patients with dengue fever and 14,220 matched controls (age, sex, time of enrollment, and medical and mental comorbidities) from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. We identified new onset of PD to the end of 2013. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the incidence rate of PD. Cox-regression analysis was applied to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) after adjustment for confounders. Results: During the follow up period, the dengue group had higher incidence of PD than the control group (1.2% vs. 0.4% , p = 0.001). Patients with dengue fever had a significantly higher risk of developing PD [HR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.51–4.44] compared with the controls, after adjustments for demographic data, PD-related comorbidities, and all-cause clinical visits. The subgroup analysis, stratified by age and sex, found that higher risk for PD was statistically significant for male (HR, 3.51; 95% CI, 1.76–7.00) and patients aged >60 years (HR, 2.96; 95% CI, 1.62–5.41). Conclusion: The risk of PD was 2.59-fold higher in patients with dengue fever than in non-infected controls during the follow-up period. Clinicians need to monitor signs of PD during patient recovery from dengue fever. Additional studies are needed to confirm our results and investigate the mechanisms linking PD and dengue virus infection.
Work, family life and recovery: An exploratory study of “the third shift”
Authors: Ericsson Ulf , Pettersson Pär , Rydstedt Leif W. , Ekelund Elin
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND: Using 24-hour narratives as a starting-point, the present study examines conditions for recovery from work. The third shift concept forms the explorative starting point for highlighting the interplay between work, family responsibilities, leisure time and recovery. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to explore how the third shift affects possibilities for recovery. METHOD: The material was gathered by group interviews and diaries. Thirty employees participated in the study. Ten participants where women between 30 and 45 years of age with children living at home. RESULTS: Being solely responsible for the third shift reduced the chances of recovery during work-free time. The material showed that women aged 30–45 years had to a greater extent than others the main responsibility in a complex third shift. CONCLUSION: As a precondition for external recovery, this study show how theoretically beneficial the breakdown of the second shift and development of the third shift is for understanding different preconditions and the way they affect the possibility of recovery.
Desinfectantes para la descontaminación de superficies e instrumental odontológico durante la pandemia del COVID-19
Authors: Amaro Collachagua Alexandra , Bernal Yzaguirre Cesar Bernal Yzaguirre , Mattos-Vela Manuel Antonio
Published: November 2021

Se ha avanzado en el conocimiento de las características y comportamiento del COVID-19, lo cual debe ser aprovechado por los profesionales de la salud a fin de proteger a sus pacientes y a ellos mismos. El objetivo de esta revisión actualizada de la literatura fue informar sobre los desinfectantes que se pueden utilizar para descontaminar superficies e instrumental en la consulta odontológica. Se realizó una exploración electrónica para seleccionar información científica en PubMed a través del NCBI, Biblioteca Virtual en Salud y en bases de datos SciELO, Redalyc, Dialnet, Latindex, Cochrane Library, LILACS y repositorios académicos, la información utilizada comprendió artículos de revisión, artículos originales y tesis relacionadas con SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 y desinfectantes durante el periodo enero 2019 a enero 2021, considerando también algunos artículos relevantes sobre desinfección, de años anteriores.