bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Peserta Didik pada Mata Pelajaran IPS Mengunakan Model Pembelajaran Picture and Picture
Authors: Syarifuddin Syarifuddin
Published: June 2020

This research aims to find out the Social science learning outcomes of fourth grade students of SDN Sungai Sandung 1 by implementing picture and picture learning model. The type of research was classroom action research consisting of two action cycles. The research sampling technique was cluster random class. The research subjects were fourth grade students of SDN Sungai Sandung 1 in academic year of 2018/2019 consisting of 19 students by implementing picture and picture learning model. The research data collection instruments were tests in the forms of multiple choices and observation sheets. Based on the research data, the result of pre-cycle showed that 3 students got score of ≥70 with completeness percentage of 16%. The result of cycle I showed that there was no difference (improvement) on student’s learning outcomes that number of students who passed the completeness criteria in the cycle I was equal to one in the pre-cycle which was only three students got score of ≥70 or the completeness percentage was 16%. The result of cycle II showed that students who got score of ≥70 increased significantly which were 16 students with learning completeness percentage of 84%. The result shows that there is a significant difference (improvement) on the Social science learning outcomes of students by implementing picture and picture learning model in the fourth grade of SDN Sungai sandung 1.
Penerapan Multimedia Interaktif untuk Meningkatkan Aktivitas Belajar IPS Siswa Kelas VI di SD Inpres Fakfak
Authors: Lepith Anerbelson , Muflihah Siti
Published: June 2020

Preliminary study shows the Social science learning activities of students in class VI SD Inrpres are still low, student learning activities can be improved through the implementation of scientific approaches with interactive multimedia. The aim of this study is to describe the increase in student learning activities in the nature of the symptoms/events materials that occur in Indonesia and neighboring countries. This study used the Bachman model class action research with the stages of planning, implementation and observation, as well as reflections, carried out through the action of 2 cycles. Data analysis results show the increase of student activities seen from six indicators. Along with the characteristics of the scientific approach that Hosnan expressed, after combined with interactive multimedia. Lowther and Russel add benefits and functions that can help to increase student activities, with a percentage on each indicator consisting of Visual Activity from 74% increase to 80%, Oral Activity from 78% to 80%, Listening Activity from 77% to 84%, Writing Activity from 83% to 85%, Mental Activity from 83% increase to 85% and Emotional activity from 81% to 84% in cycle II. It concludes that implementation of scientific approaches with interactive multimedia can increase students ' learning activities of Social science subject in the class VI at SD Inpres Fakfak.
The Use of Youtube Vlog to Improve The Students’ Listening Skill of MTs Samarinda
Authors: Lestari Juliati Amalia
Published: June 2020

The background of research is students have less motivation in learning English and some students feel difficult in understand vocabularies that were pronounced. As a result, they did not know the word and its meaning. It happens because they couldn’t hear the articulation of the word clearly. The objective of this research is to find out is YouTube vlog can improve students’ listening skill of eighth grade at MTs DDI Tani Aman Loa Janan.  The design of this research was Classroom Action Research (CAR) which researcher following Kemmis and McTaggart action research procedures. The subject of this research was students of VIIIB at MTs DDI Tani Aman were about 29 students. The instrument of this research is observation checklist, test, and field note. The result of this research indicates that there was improvement of the students’ listening skill. Most of the students gradually gained good scores at the second cycle. The score of Minimum Mastery Criterion (KKM) of English lesson was 75.00. In the preliminary study there were 2 students or 7.69% students who passed the KKM and mean score of preliminary study was 28.51. Next, the result of the first cycle showed that there were 9 students or 31.03% students who passed the KKM considering their mean score of the test gained 145.47%. next, the result of the second cycle shows that there were 27 students or 96.42% students who passed the KKM which their mean scores derived 88.21 and gained 209.40% of improvement. So, the final result is found that more than 75% students with individual score in listening skill passed the KKM.
Menanamkan Nilai Kejujuran Sebagai Revolusi Mental Pada Generasi Penerus Bangsa
Authors: Aisyah Siti
Published: June 2020

Nilai jujur sudah tergerus oleh runtuhnya pola pikir yang disebabkan mental anak bangsa sudah tak suci lagi. Banyak yang mempengaruhi kemerosotan nilai jujur tersebut, dari pengaruh pendidikan yang kurang bisa membekali diri peserta didik yang menjadi lulusannya. Kemudian dari pengaruh lingkungan yang memaksa untuk menanggalkan nilai kejujuran demi tercapainya suatu tujuan. Dari fenomena tersebut dapat juga kita temui tertanggalkannya nilai kejujuran dalam proses pembelajaran, dari dilaksanakannya pada Ujian Nasional dan sampai kepada pengerjaan tugas sekolah. Anak-anak dituntut untuk mendapatkan nilai baik, tetapi para pendidik lupa akan letak kejujuran yang harus diindahkan dalam segala kegiatan. Alhasil pencapaian yang dikejar memang baik, tapi jauh dari kata kejujuran (mencontek). Nilai kejujuran yang sangat mempengaruhi suatu perubahan bangsa, apakah menjadi bangsa yang beradab dalam peradabannya atau malah sebaliknya. Maka dari itu, penting kiranya kita mengupas kebermaknaan dari nilai kejujuran pada generasi muda bangsa serta mengetahui apa saja yang menjadi masalah dalam sendatnya arus peradaban suatu bangsa.
The Influence of Achievement Motivation and Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) on Students’ Mathematics Learning Outcomes
Authors: Hamidy Anwaril , Merliza Pika
Published: June 2020

This study explores the significance of influence of achievement motivation and SRL toward students’ mathematics learning outcomes. This was an ex post facto research. The population was all tenth-grade students of MAN 2 Samarinda, West Kalimantan, Indonesia in the school year 2013/2014. The sample was selected by cluster sampling, as well as obtained four classes as a sample. The data were collected by questionnaires of achievement motivation and SRL, and math formative test. Furthermore, the data were analyzed by using multiple regression analysis. The results of this study is the assumption of regression equation Ŷ = -21,682 + 0,400X1 + 0,239X2 with F value is 40,043 and the significance is 0,000. Hence, there is a significant combination of achievement motivation and SRL through students’ mathematics achievement.
Strategi Kepala Sekolah dalam Meningkatkan Standar Pendidik dan Tenaga Kependidikan di SMA Negeri 6 Samarinda
Authors: Khrisnamurti Dimas Ayu
Published: June 2020

Latar belakang dalam penelitian ini adalah kepala sekolah merupakan faktor utama kunci keberhasilan yang akan mengarahkan kepada kemajuan sekolah. Dalam melakukan kegiatan ini sangat bergantung pada kemampuan kepala sekolah dalam menguasai strategi-strategi yang akan dilakukan dalam upaya meningkatkan standar pendidik dan tenaga kependidikan. Tenaga pendidik dan kependidikan di sekolah diharapkan sesuai dengan standar nasional yang telah ditentukan agar dapat menunjang berhasil nya tujuan pendidikan. Untuk menjamin tercapainya tujuan sekolah, kepala sekolah wajib memahami tahapan-tahapan dalam pelaksanaan strategi yang akan dilakukan dalam meningkatkan standar pendidik dan tenaga kependidikan. Maka tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui strategi yang dilakukan oleh kepala sekolah dalam meningkatkan standar pendidik dan tenaga kependidikan di SMA Negeri 6 Samarinda. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa strategi yang dilakukan oleh kepala sekolah dalam meningkatkan standar pendidik dan tenaga kependidikan ini melalui beberapa tahapan, untuk menjaga konsistensi tenaga pendidik kepala sekolah memberikan pengarahan kepada guru untuk melakukan pelatihan-pelatihan diklat dan MGMP, strategi tersebut menyesuaikan situasi dan kondisi dari setiap bidangnya. Sehingga strategi yang dilakukan oleh lembaga pendidikan SMA Negeri 6 Samarinda yang dilakukan oleh Kepala sekolah dapat terlaksana dengan baik dan terstruktur.
Identifikasi Nilai Karakter Religius dalam Video Karya Youtuber Millenial
Authors: Syamsi Nur
Published: June 2020

The YouTube page is the most favorite page for millennials. Although the main purpose of the content in the videos is to entertain, but unconsciously it is also able to influence the audience both cognitive, affective, and behavioral. Therefore, it is necessary to identify whether in the video content there are religious characters that can have a positive impact on the audience. This research aims to identify the character of religious values in videos by millennial YouTuber. Data collection method used is the documentation method, data were analyzed using descriptive qualitative content analysis techniques. The results showed that from the entire video uploaded on Ria Ricis Official, Atta Halilintar, and Rans Entertainment YouTube, there were 131 video contents those were used as analysis material. Based on the video analyzed, religious values are obtained which include the values of faith, Islam, ihsan, science, and charity.
Genome-wide epigenetic analyses in Japanese immigrant plantation workers with Parkinson’s Disease and exposure to organochlorines reveal possible involvement of glial genes and pathways involved in neurotoxicity
Authors: Go Rodney C.P. , Corley Michael J , Ross George Webster , Petrovich Helen , Masaki Kamal H , Maunakea Alika K , He Qimei , Tiirikainen Maarit I
Published: June 2020

Background: Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a disease of the central nervous system that progressively affects the motor system. Epidemiological studies have provided evidence that exposure to agriculture-related occupations or agrichemicals elevate a person’s risk for PD. Here, we sought to examine the possible epigenetic changes associated with working on a plantation on Oahu, HI and/or exposure to organochlorines (OGC) in PD cases. Results: We measured genome-wide DNA methylation using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450K BeadChip array in matched peripheral blood and postmortem brain biospecimens in PD cases (n=20) assessed for years of plantation work and presence of organochlorines in brain tissue. The comparison of 10+ to 0 years of plantation work exposure detected 7 and 123 differentially methylated loci (DML) in brain and blood DNA, respectively (P<0.0001). The comparison of cases with 4+ to 0-2 detectable levels of OGC, identified 8 and 18 DML in brain and blood DNA, respectively (P <0.0001). Pathway analyses revealed links to key neurotoxic and neuropathologic pathways related to impaired immune and proinflammatory responses as well as impaired clearance of damaged proteins, as found in the predominantly glial cell population in these environmental exposure-related PD cases.Conclusions: These results suggest that distinct DNA methylation biomarker profiles related to environmental exposures in PD cases with previous exposure can be found in both brain and blood.
Modulating effect of vitamin D status on serum anti-adenovirus 36 antibody amount in children with obesity: National Food and Nutrition Surveillance
Authors: Nikooyeh Bahareh , Hollis Bruce , Neyestani Tirang Reza
Published: June 2020

Background. The association of ADV-36 infection and obesity has been reported in children. The objective of this study was to examine the hypothesis that the association between ADV-36 infection and adiposity may be mediated by sub-optimal vitamin D status of the host. Methods. Ninety one apparently healthy children in different weight categories (normal weight: 33, overweight: 33, obesity: 25) aged 5-18 years were randomly selected from the registered population at National Food and Nutrition Surveillance Program (NFNS). The groups were matched based on age and sex. Anthropometric, biochemical and serological assessments were performed.Results. The amount of anti-ADV36-Ab increased whereas circulating concentrations of 25(OH)D decreased across BMI categories with higher amounts in children with normal weight than in children with overweight and obesity (31.0±16.4, 22.5±10.5 and 21.9±9.8 nmol/L, respectively, p=0.004). Logistic regression analysis revealed that for each unit increment of anti-ADV36-Ab, the chance of increase in weight was 8.5 times (OR: 8.5, p=0.029). Interestingly, when 25(OH)D was introduced into the model, anti-ADV36-Ab was no longer the predictor of weight increment and the chance of increase in weight reduced 5% for each unit increase in 25(OH)D concentration (OR: 0.95, p=0.012). Conclusion. It is suggested that ADV36-induced lipogenesis may be mediated by vitamin D deficiency in children with obesity.
Towards accurate exclusion of neonatal bacterial meningitis: a feasibility study of a novel 16S rDNA PCR assay.
Authors: Abelian Arthur , Mund Thomas , Curran Martin , Savill Stuart , Mitra Nipa , Charan Carol , Ogilvy-Stuart Amanda , Pelham Hugh , Dear Paul
Published: June 2020

Background: PCRctic is an innovative assay based on 16S rDNA PCR technology that has been designed to detect a single intact bacterium in a specimen of cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF). The assay’s potential for accurate, fast and inexpensive discrimination of bacteria-free CSF makes it an ideal adjunct for confident exclusion of bacterial meningitis in newborn babies where the negative predictive value of bacterial culture is poor. This study aimed to stress-test and optimize PCRctic in the “field conditions” to attain a clinically useful level of specificity.Methods: The specificity of PCRctic was evaluated in CSF obtained from newborn babies investigated for meningitis on a tertiary neonatal unit. Following an interim analysis, the method of skin antisepsis was changed to increase bactericidal effect, and snap-top tubes (EppendorfTM) replaced standard universal containers for collection of CSF to reduce environmental contamination.Results: The assay’s specificity was 90.5% in CSF collected into the snap-top tubes – up from 60% in CSF in the universal containers. The method of skin antisepsis had no effect on the specificity. All CSF cultures were negative and no clinical cases of neonatal bacterial meningitis occurred during the study. Conclusions: a simple and inexpensive optimization of CSF collection resulted in a high specificity output. The low prevalence of neonatal bacterial meningitis means that a large multi-centre study will be required to validate the assay’s sensitivity and its negative predictive value.
Eimeria tenella Eimeria-specific protein that interacts with apical membrane antigen 1 (EtAMA1) is involved in host cell invasion
Authors: Li Cong , Zhao Qiping , Zhu Shunhai , Wang Qingjie , Wang Haixia , Yu Shuilan , Yu Yu , Liang Shashan , Zhao Huanzhi , Huang Bing , Dong Hui , Han Hongyu
Published: June 2020

Background: Avian coccidiosis is a widespread, economically significant disease of poultry, caused by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria. Among these species, E. tenella causes hemorrhagic pathologies and high mortality. These parasites have complex and diverse lifestyles that require the invasion of their host cells. This is mediated by various proteins secreted from apical secretory organelles. Apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA1), which is released from micronemes and is conserved across all apicomplexans, plays a central role in the host cell invasion. In a previous study, some putative EtAMA1-interacting proteins of E. tenella were screened. In this study, we characterized one putative EtAMA1-interacting protein, E. tenella Eimeria -specific protein (EtEsp).Methods: Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion protein pull-down (GST pull-down) were used to confirm the interaction between EtAMA1 and EtEsp in vivo and in vitro. The expression of EtEsp was analyzed in different developmental stages of E. tenella with quantitative PCR and western blotting. The secretion of EtEsp protein was tested with staurosporine when sporozoites were incubated in complete medium at 41 °C.The localization of EtEsp was analyzed with an immunoﬂuorescence assay. An in vitro invasion inhibition assay was conducted to assess the ability of antibodies against EtEsp to inhibit cell invasion by E. tenella sporozoites.Results: The interaction between EtAMA1 and EtEsp was confirmed with BiFC in vivo and by GST pull-down in vitro. Our results show that EtEsp is differentially expressed during distinct phases of the parasite life cycle. An immunoﬂuorescence analysis showed that the EtEsp protein is mainly distributed on the parasite surface, and that the expression of this protein increases during the development of the parasite in the host cells. Using staurosporine, we showed that EtEsp is a secreted protein, but not from micronemes. In inhibition tests, a polyclonal anti-rEtEsp antibody attenuated the capacity of E. tenella to invade host cells in vitro. Conclusion: In this study, we show that EtEsp interacts with EtAMA1 and that the protein is secreted protein, but not from micronemes. The protein participates in the sporozoite invasion of host cells and maybe involved in the growth of the parasite in the host. These data have implications for the use of EtAMA1 or EtAMA1-interacting proteins as targets in intervention strategies against avian coccidiosis.
Small intestinal microbiota composition and the prognosis of infants with ileostomy resulting from distinct primary diseases
Authors: Qian Tian , Zhu Haitao , Zhu Li , Chen Chao , Shen Chun , Zhang Rong
Published: June 2020

Background: Studies of microbiota composition of infants with small intestinal ostomy due to various etiologies are limited. Here, we characterized the intestinal microbiota of neonates with ileostomy resulting from distinct primary diseases. Methods: Fifteen patients with necrotizing enterocolitis, eight patients with meconium peritonitis, and seven patients with Hirschsprung's disease were included in the study. The small intestinal microbiota composition in infants with ileostomy caused by these diseases was studied. Results: Microbial diversity in neonatal ileostomy fluid was generally low, and was dominated by members of the Proteobacteria and Firmicutes phyla. At the genus level, the most abundant were Klebsiella, Escherichia-Shigella, Streptococcus, Clostridium sensu stricto 1, Enterococcus, and Lactobacillus. Streptococcus and Veillonella are related to carbohydrate metabolism and immunity, and breastfeeding can increase the proportion of these potentially beneficial bacteria. The proportion of Bifidobacterium in the breastfeeding group was higher than that in the non-breastfeeding group, and incidence of colitis and sepsis was reduced in the breastfeeding group. The proportion of Bifidobacterium increased and incidence of colitis and sepsis decreased in the breastfeeding group compared with the non- breastfeeding group, but there was no significant difference. The increase in body weight in the breastfeeding group was observed to be higher than in the non-breastfeeding group. Conclusions: Excessive Klebsiella and Escherichia-Shigella and low abundance of Streptococcus, Veillonella and Faecalibacterium suggests that the small intestinal microbiota is in an unhealthy state after ileostomy. However, Streptococcus, Faecalibacterium, and Veillonella species were frequently present, suggesting that expansion of these bacteria might assist the development of the immune system after surgery.
Effects of chalazion and its treatments on the meibomian glands: a nonrandomized, prospective observation clinical study
Authors: Li Junping , Li Dongping , Zhou Na , Qi Mengying , Luo Yanzhu , Wang Yuhong
Published: June 2020

Background To observe the effects of chalazion and its treatments on meibomian gland function and morphology in the chalazion area. Methods This nonrandomized, prospective observational clinical study included 58 patients (67 eyelids) who were cured of chalazion, including 23 patients (23 eyelids) treated with a conservative method and 35 patients (44 eyelids) treated with surgery. Infrared meibomian gland photography combined with image analysis by ImageJ software was used to measure the chalazion area proportion. Slit-lamp microscopy was employed to evaluate meibomian gland function, and a confocal microscope was used to observe meibomian gland acinar morphology before treatment and 1 month after complete chalazion resolution. Results At 1 month after chalazion resolution, the original chalazion area showed meibomian gland loss according to infrared meibomian gland photography in both groups. In patients who received conservative treatment, the meibomian gland function parameters before treatment were 0.74±0.75, 0.48±0.67, and 1.22±0.60, respectively. One month after chalazion resolution, the parameters were 0.35±0.49, 0.17±0.49, and 0.91±0.60, respectively; there was significant difference (P<0.05). The proportion of the chalazion area before treatment was 14.90 (11.03, 25.3), and the proportion of meibomian gland loss at 1 month after chalazion resolution was 14.64 (10.33, 25.77); there was no significant difference (P>0.05). In patients who underwent surgery, the meibomian gland function parameters before surgery were 0.93±0.87, 1.07±0.70, and 1.59±0.76, respectively, and at 1 month after chalazion resolution, they were 0.93±0.82, 0.95±0.75, and 1.52±0.70, respectively; there was no significant difference (P>0.05). The proportion of the chalazion area before surgery was 14.90 (12.04, 21.6), and the proportion of meibomian gland loss at 1 month after chalazion resolution was 14.84 (11.31, 21.81); there was no significant difference (P>0.05). The acinar structure could not be observed clearly in the meibomian gland loss area in most patients. Conclusions Chalazion causes meibomian gland loss, and the range of meibomian gland loss is not related to the treatment method but to the range of chalazion itself. A hot compress as part of conservative treatment can improve meibomian gland function at the site of chalazion in the short term.
Measurement properties of the Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MSK-HQ): a between country comparison
Authors: Christiansen David Høyrup , McCray Gareth , Winding Trine Nøhr , Andersen Johan Hviid , Nielsen Kent Jacob , Karstens Sven , Hill Jonathan C
Published: June 2020

Background: The Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MSK-HQ) has been developed to measure musculoskeletal health status across musculoskeletal conditions and settings. However, the MSK-HQ needs to be further evaluated across settings and different languages.Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate and compare measurement properties of the MSK-HQ across Danish (DK) and English (UK) cohorts of patients from primary care physiotherapy services with musculoskeletal pain. Methods: MSK-HQ was translated into Danish according to international guidelines. Measurement invariance was assessed by differential item functioning (DIF) analyses. Test-retest reliability, measurement error, responsiveness and minimal clinically important change (MCIC) were evaluated and compared between DK (n=153) and UK (n=166) cohorts. Results: The Danish version demonstrated acceptable face and construct validity. Out of the 14 MSK-HQ items, three items showed DIF for language (pain/stiffness at night, understanding condition and confidence in managing symptoms) and three items showed DIF for pain location (walking, washing/dressing and physical activity levels). Intraclass Correlation Coefficients for test-retest were 0.86 (95% CI 0.81 to 0.91) for DK cohort and 0.77 (95% CI 0.49 to 0.90) for the UK cohort. The systematic measurement error was 1.6 and 3.9 points for the DK and UK cohorts respectively, with random measurement error being 8.6 and 9.9 points. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the change scores against patients’ own judgment at 3 months exceeded 0.70 in both cohorts. Absolute and relative MCIC estimates were 8-10 points and 26% for the DK cohort and 6-8 points and 29% for the UK cohort.Conclusions: The measurement properties of MSK-HQ were acceptable across countries, but seem more suited for group than individual level evaluation. Researchers and clinicians should be aware that some discrepancy exits and should take the observed measurement error into account when evaluating change in scores over time.
The risk of fracture and prevalence of osteoporosis is elevated in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies: cross-sectional study from a single Hungarian center
Authors: Vincze Anett , Bodoki Levente , Szabó Katalin , Nagy-Vincze Melinda , Szalmás Orsolya , Varga József , Dankó Katalin , Gaál János , Griger Zoltan
Published: June 2020

Background: The prevalence of osteoporosis and risk of fractures is elevated in rheumatoid arthritis, but we have limited information about the bone mineral density and fracture risk in patients with inflammatory myopathies. We intended to ascertain and compare fracture risk, bone mineral density (BMD) and the prevalence of vertebral fractures in patients with inflammatory myositis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to assess the effect of prevalent fractures on the quality of life and functional capacity.Methods: Fifty-two patients with myositis and 43 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were included in the study. Fracture Risk was determined using FRAX® Calculation Tool developed by the University of Sheffield. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and bidirectional thoracolumbar radiographs were performed to assess BMD and vertebral fractures. Quality of life was measured with Short Form-36 (SF-36) and physical function assessment was performed using Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Results: We found a significantly elevated fracture risk in RA as compared to myositis patients if the risk assessment was performed without the inclusion of the BMD results. If BMD results and glucocorticoid dose adjustment were taken into account, the differences in fracture risk were no longer significant. The prevalence of osteoporosis was found to be significantly higher in the myositis group (7% vs. 13.5%, p: 0.045), but the fracture prevalence was similar in the two groups (75% vs. 68%). The fracture rates were independently associated with age in the myositis group, and with lower BMD results in the RA patients. The number of prevalent fractures was significantly correlated to poorer physical function in both groups, and poorer health status in the myositis group, but not in the RA group.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that inflammatory myopathies carry significantly elevated risks for osteoporosis and fractures. These higher risks are comparable to ones detected with RA in studies and strongly affect the physical function and quality of life of patients. Therefore further efforts are required to make the fracture risk assessment reliable and to facilitate the use of early preventive treatments.
Age and education as factors associated with medication literacy: a community pharmacy perspective.
Authors: Plaza-Zamora Javier , Legaz Isabel , Osuna Eduardo , Pérez-Cárceles M. D.
Published: June 2020

Background: Aging implies a higher prevalence of chronic pathologies and a corresponding increase in medication. The correct adherence and use of the medication are prerequisites for reducing risks of disease progression, comorbidity, and mortality. Medication literacy (ML) is the specific ability to safely access and understand the information available concerning medication, and to act accordingly. Currently, there are few specific instruments that ascertain the extent of ML in the general population. The aim of this work was to analyse ML in a large cohort of pharmacy customers. Methods: A total of 400 community pharmacy clients were analyzed to assess the level of ML (documental and numeracy) through the validated MedLitRxSE tool. Results: The results showed that out of a total of 400 community pharmacy clients only 136 (34%) had an adequate degree of ML, while the rest of the clients (n=264; 66%) were adjudged not to have this ability. Women were more likely to have an inadequate degree of ML (70.1% vs, 58.1% of men). The groups between 51-65 and ˃65 years showed a low level of ML (23.5% and 7.1%, respectively) compared with the rest of the age groups. The education level was also analyzed and a statistically significant increase in ML was observed as the clients’ academic level increased (P <0.001). Conclusions: An inadequate ML level was found in community pharmacy clients over the age of 51, and also in those with primary or non-formal studies. Our data add to our knowledge about ML, and should pharmacists and other health professionals to adopt new strategies to prevent, or at least reduce, errors in taking medicines, thus avoiding the undesirable effects of any misuse.
Induced neuroprotection by remote ischemic perconditioning as a new paradigm in ischemic stroke at the acute phase, a systematic review
Authors: Purroy Francisco , García Cristina , Mauri Gerard , Pereira Cristina , Torres Coral , Vazquez-Justes Daniel , Vicente-Pascualº Mikel , Vena Ana , Arque Gloria
Published: June 2020

Remote ischemic conditioning during cerebral ischemia (remote ischemic perconditioning, RIPerC) refers to the application of several cycles of brief ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) commonly to a limb, and it represents a new paradigm in neuroprotection with multiple mechanisms of action in ischemic stroke (IS) patients during acute phase. Some clinical trials just finished, and a few others are still ongoing; gather the current knowledge and pull it down to influence the present and future studies was the goal of this paper. For that, a systematic review of published research papers and/or registered clinical trials since 2000 was performed. Nineteen studies were identified and only four studies were completed. All of them have demonstrated that RIPerC is safe, feasible and well tolerated in IS patients. However, a high heterogeneity of clinical trial characteristics was observed: five (26.3%) randomized clinical trials (RCTs) included only thrombolytic-treated patients, three (15.8%) RCTs only thrombectomy-treated patients, and five (26.3%) RCTs required radiological confirmation of IS. Temporal inclusion criteria vary from 4h to 48h. Most of the clinical trials used 4 cycles of RIPerC in the upper non-affected limb. Interestingly, only three (16.7%) RCTs applied RIPerC during the transportation in the ambulance. Neuroimaging outputs were the main endpoints when endovascular therapy was applied; functional outcome is also the main endpoint in large-medium size studies. This review summarizes the completed and ongoing clinical trials on RIPerC in IS patients, where RIPerC has been used alone or in combination with recanalization therapies. Ongoing clinical trials will provide new information on the best RIPerC intervention strategy and potentially improve the functional outcome of IS patients; definition of new RIPerC strategies would ideally aim at enhancing tissue preservation, promoting neurological recovery, and stratify patients to improve treatment feasibility.
CO2 or air cholangiography reduces the risk of post-ERCP cholangitis in patients with Bismuth type IV hilar biliary obstruction
Authors: zhang wenhui , Ding Peng peng , liu lei , wang yanling , lai wenhui , han jingjing , han jun , li hanwei
Published: June 2020

Background: Endoscopic biliary stenting by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the most common form of palliation for malignant hilar obstruction. However, ERCP in such cases is associated with a risk of cholangitis. The incidence of post-ERCP cholangitis is particularly high in Bismuth type IV hilar obstruction, and this risk is further increased when the contrast injected for cholangiography is not drained. The present study aims to compare the incidence of cholangitis associated with the use of a contrast agent, air and CO2 for cholangiography in type IV hilar biliary lesions. Methods: The clinical data of consecutive 70 patients with type IV hilar obstruction, who underwent ERCP from October 2013 to November 2017, were retrospectively analyzed. These patients were divided into three groups based on the agent used for cholangiography: group A, contrast (n=22); group B, air (n=18); group C, CO2 (n=30). These three methods of cholangiography were chronologically separated. Prior to the ERCP, MRCP was obtained from all patients to guide the endoscopic intervention. Results: At baseline, there was no significant difference in terms of the patient’s age, gender, symptoms and liver function tests among the three groups (P>0.05). The complication rates were significantly higher in group A than in groups B and C (63.6% vs. 26.7% and 27.8%, P<0.05). The incidence of post-ERCP cholangitis was significantly higher in group A (P<0.05), while the incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis and bleeding were similar in the three groups. After the ERCP, the mean hospital stay was shorter in groups B and C, when compared to group A (P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the 30-day mortality rate among the three groups (P>0.05). Furthermore, there was no significant difference between groups B and C in terms of primary end points. Conclusion: CO2 or air cholangiography during ERCP for type IV hilar obstruction is associated with reduced risk of post-ERCP cholangitis, when compared to conventional contrast agents.
Phantom and clinical evaluation of bone SPECT/CT image reconstruction with xSPECT algorithm
Authors: Miyaji Noriaki , Miwa Kenta , Tokiwa Ayaka , Ichikawa Hajime , Terauchi Takashi , Koizumi Mitsuru , Onoguchi Masahisa
Published: June 2020

Background Two novel methods of image reconstruction, xSPECT Quant (xQ) and xSPECT Bone (xB) that use an ordered subset conjugate gradient minimizer (OSCGM) for SPECT/CT reconstruction have been proposed. The present study compares the performance characteristics of xQ, xB and conventional Flash3D (F3D) reconstruction using images derived from phantoms and patients. Methods A custom-designed body phantom for bone SPECT was scanned using a Symbia Intevo (Siemens Healthineers) and reconstructed xSPECT images were evaluated. The phantom experiments proceeded twice with different activity concentrations and sphere sizes. A phantom with 28-mm spheres containing a 99m Tc-background and tumor-to-normal bone ratios (TBR) of 1, 2, 4 and 10, were generated and convergence property against various TBR was evaluated across 96 iterations. A phantom with four spheres (13-, 17-, 22-, and 28-mm diameters), containing a 99m Tc-background at TBR4, was also generated. The full width at half maximum of an imaged spinous process (10 mm), coefficients of variance (CV), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and recovery coefficients (RC) were evaluated after reconstructing images of a spine using Flash 3D (F3D), xQ and xB. We retrospectively analyzed images from 20 patients with suspected bone metastases (male, n = 13) were acquired using [ 99m Tc]Tc-(H)MDP SPECT/CT, then CV and standardized uptake values (SUV) at the 4 th vertebral body (L4) were compared after xQ and xB reconstruction in a clinical setup. Results Mean activity concentrations with various TBR converged according to increasing numbers of iterations. The spatial resolution of xB was considerably superior to xQ and F3D, and it approached almost the actual size regardless of the iteration numbers during reconstruction. The CV and RC were better for xQ and xB than for F3D. The CNR peaked at 24 iterations for xQ and 48 iterations for F3D and xB, respectively. The RC between xQ and xB significantly differed at lower numbers of iterations but were almost equivalent at higher numbers of iterations. The reconstructed xQ and xB images of the clinical patients showed a significant difference in the SUVmax and SUVpeak. Conclusions The reconstructed xQ and xB images were more accurate than those reconstructed conventionally using F3D. The xB for bone SPECT imaging offered essentially unchanged spatial resolution even when the numbers of iterations did not converge. The xB reconstruction further enhanced SPECT image quality using CT data. Our findings provide important information for understanding the performance characteristics of the novel xQ and xB algorithms.
Laboratory colonization by Dirofilaria immitis alters the microbiome of female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
Authors: Adegoke Abdulsalam , Neff Erik , Geary Amie , Husser Montana Ciara , Wilson Kevin , Norris Shawn Michael , Dharmarajan Guha , Karim Shahid
Published: June 2020

Background: The ability of blood feeding arthropods to successfully acquire and transmit pathogens of medical and veterinary importance has been shown to be interfered with, or enhanced by, the arthropod’s native microbiome. Mosquitoes transmit viruses, protozoan and filarial nematodes, the majority of which contribute to the 17% of infectious disease cases worldwide. Dirofilaria immitis, a mosquito transmitted by filarial nematodes of dogs and cats, is vectored by several mosquito species including Aedes aegypti.Methods: In this study, we investigated the impact of D. immitis colonization on the microbiome of laboratory reared female A. aegypti. Metagenomic analysis of the V3-V4 variable region of the microbial 16SRNA was used for identification of the microbial differences down to species level.Results We generated a total of 1068 OTUs representing 16 phyla, 181 genera and 271 bacterial species. Overall, in order of abundance, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and Firmicutes were the most represented phylum with D. immitis infected mosquitoes having more of Proteobacteria (71%) than uninfected mosquitoes (56.9%). An interesting finding in this study is the detection of Klebsiella oxytoca in relatively similar abundance in infected and uninfected mosquitoes, suggesting a possible endosymbiotic relationship, and has been previously shown to indirectly compete for nutrients with fungi on domestic housefly eggs and larva. While D. immitis colonization has no effect on the overall species richness, we identified significant differences in the composition of selected bacteria genus and phylum between the two groups. We also reported distinct compositional and phylogenetic differences in the individual bacteria species when commonly identified bacteria were compared. Conclusions In conclusion, this is the first study to the best of our knowledge to understand the impact of a filarial infection on the microbiome of its mosquito vector. Further studies are required to identify bacteria species that could play an important role in the mosquito biology. While the microbiome composition of A. aegypti mosquito have been previously reported, our study shows that in an effort to establish itself, a filarial nematode modifies and alters the overall microbial diversity within its mosquito host.
Long-Term Transmission Patterns And Public Health Policies Leading To Malaria Elimination In Panamá
Authors: Hurtado Lisbeth , Cumbrera Alberto , Rigg Chystrie , Perea Milixa , Santamaría Ana María , Chaves Luis Fernando , Moreno Dianik , Romero Luis , Lasso Jose , Caceres Lorenzo , Saldaña Azael , Calzada Jose Eduardo
Published: June 2020

Background: The present study provides a countrywide perspective of the malaria situation in Panama over a long-term framework, with the purpose of identifying historical malaria resurgence events and their potential causes.
Methods: A descriptive-ecological study was conducted by analyzing demographic and epidemiological annual malaria time series data in Panamá (1884 – 2019) using several data sources. Malaria intensity indicators were calculated during the study period. We also analyze the effects of El Niño Southern Oscillation on malaria transmission using a retrospective analysis of malaria cases between 1957 and 2019.
Results: Several factors were identified responsible for malaria resurgence in Panama, mostly related with Malaria Control Programme weakening. During the past 20 years (2000 – 2019) malaria has progressively increased its prevalence within indigenous settlements, with a predominance of male cases and a high proportion (15% of total cases) in children less than 5 years old. During this period a significant and increasing proportion of the P. falciparum total cases were imported. Our retrospective analysis (1957 - 2019) evidenced that ENSO has a significant impact on malaria transmission dynamics in Panama.
Conclusions: Data analysis confirmed that although authorities have been successful in focalizing malaria transmission in the country, there are still neglected issues to be solved and important intercultural barriers that need to be addressed in order to achieve elimination of the disease by 2022. This information will be useful for targeting strategies by the National Malaria Control Programme.
Probucol enhances the therapeutic efficiency of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in diabetic rats by prolonging their survival time via Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Wang Haoran , Zhang Keqin , Ruan Zheng , Sun Dingqi , Zhang Hui , Lin Guiting , Hu Liangliang , Zhao Shengtian , Fu Qiang
Published: June 2020

Background: Intracavernous injection of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a promising method for Diabetic mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED), but short survival time of MSCs in cavernous is fatal defect for therapy. This study investigated therapeutic efficiency and potential mechanism of probucol combined with MSCs. Methods: In vivo study, total forty-eight 10-week-old male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were used in this study. Twelve rats received intraperitoneal injection of PBS as Sham Group; the rest received intraperitoneal injection of 60mg/kg streptozotocin to establish DM models. DM rats were randomly divided into three groups: received intracavernosal (IC) injection of either PBS (DM Group), MSCs (M Group), and administrated probucol after intracavernosal injection of MSCs (P+M Group). Erectile function was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerves with real-time intracavernous pressure measurement. After euthanasia, penile tissue was investigated for histologic examination and Western blotting. In vitro experiment, H2O2 was used to create oxidative stress environment to detect changes in cell viability. CCK8 was used to measure cell viability of MSCs treated with or without probucol. Intracellular ROS changes were detected by flow cytometry. Autophagy and apoptosis were detected by Western blotting and confocal microscopy.Results: Recovery of erectile function was observed in the P+M Group. The combination therapy decreased fibrosis and increased endothelial function compared with MSCs therapy alone. Western blotting results confirmed the increased expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 in cavernous body. H2O2 induced high oxidative stress and reduced cell viability in vitro, which was gradually reversed with increased concentration of probucol. H2O2 reduced Nrf2 expression, which was reversed by probucol's intervention. Furthermore, the expression of Bax, Caspase3 and Cleaved-Caspase3 decreased, and the expression of Bcl-2 increased in a dose-dependent manner because of probucol's intervention. In addition, Beclin1 and LC3II both increased in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, the expression of P62 decreased. In study of autophagy flux, we found probucol didn’t block it. Conclusion: Probucol enhanced therapeutic efficiency of MSCs in DMED by prolonging their survival time, which mediated through improving the transplanted microenvironment of MSCs, increasing self-antioxidant ability of MSCs, strengthening protective autophagy and inhibiting apoptosis of MSCs via Nrf2 pathway.
Overexpression of IκBα in cardiomyocytes alleviates hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptosis and autophagy by inhibiting NF-κB activation
Authors: Han Min , Chen Xiao-Cui , Sun Ming-Hui , Gai Min-Tao , Yang Yi-Ning , Gao Xiao-Ming , Ma Xiang , Chen Bang-Dang , Ma Yi-Tong
Published: June 2020

Background: Inflammation and oxidative stress play predominant roles in the initiation and progression of ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, with nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) serving as a crucial mediator. Overexpression of the inhibitor of κB alpha (IκBα) gene is hypothesized to have protective effects against apoptosis and autophagy in cardiomyocytes subjected to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway.Methods: The IκBαS32A, S36A gene was transfected via adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) delivery into neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes (NRVMs) prior to H2O2 treatment. NRVMs were divided into control, H2O2, GFP +H2O2, IκBα+H2O2, and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC)+H2O2 groups. Nuclear translocation of the NF-κB p65 subunit was evaluated by immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Cell viability was assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Supernatant lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and intracellular malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured to identify H2O2-stimulated cytotoxicity. Apoptosis was determined by Annexin V-PE/7-AAD staining, and the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was detected by JC-1 staining. Western blotting was used to detect apoptosis- and autophagy-related proteins.Results: IκBα transfection significantly increased cell viability and ΔΨm but decreased the supernatant LDH and cellular MDA levels in cardiomyocytes exposed to H2O2. Meanwhile, IκBα overexpression decreased H2O2-induced apoptosis by upregulating the Bcl-2/Bax ratio and reduced autophagy by downregulating the expression of Beclin-1 and the LC3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰ ratio. These effects partly accounted for the ability of IκBα to inhibit the NF-κB signalling pathway, as evidenced by decreases in p65 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. Indeed, the effects of inactivation of NF-κB signalling with the specific inhibitor PDTC resembled the cardioprotective effects of IκBα during H2O2 stimulation.Conclusion: IκBα overexpression can ameliorate H2O2-induced apoptosis, autophagy, oxidative injury, and ΔΨm loss through inhibition of the NF-κB signalling pathway. These findings suggest that IκBα transfection can result in successful resistance to oxidative stress-induced damage by inhibiting NF-κB activation, which may provide a potential therapeutic target for the prevention of myocardial I/R injury.