bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual Responses in the Domestic Horse Regarding Human Behavior in Identical Settings
Authors: Schütz Kathrin , Rötters Annika , Oebel Lara
Published: February 2018

Although there has been research regarding the horses´ responses to human behavior, there is still a gap concerning the knowledge about the interaction of horses and humans in showing individual responses to different human behavior in the same situation. In this work, the horses´ individual responses to different humans were examined to close this research gap and to identify whether horses do really respond differently to different people. To this end, 29 horse and human interactions (including two identical exercises in each situation) were videoed and then transcribed in the style of HANOS. The qualitative content analysis was appropriated on the basis of Mayring. Both of the methods were adjusted to the special study conditions as the nonverbal interactions between each person and one horse were focused but no verbal expressions. In total, just under 600 interactions were analyzed (quantitative analyses). Based on these analyses, it can be assumed that each human individual received an individual, different feedback from the horses.
MODEL DISCOVERY LEARNING BERBANTUAN GEOGEBRA UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN PEMECAHAN MASALAH
Authors: Mone Ferdinandus , Abi Alfonsa Maria
Published: February 2018

Kualitas Pendidikan di daerah tertinggal tidak dapat disamakan dengan pendidikan di daerah maju. Rendahnya kualitas pendidikan di Daerah tertinggal dapat disebabkan karena fasilitas pendidikan yang jauh lebih minim dari pada daerah maju, salah satunya adalah minimnya media pembelajaran. Rendahnya kualitas pembelajaran di sekolah menengah membuat kualitas input ke perguruan tinggi daerah setempat juga ikut rendah sehingga mahasiswa perlu mengejar keteritinggalan pengetahuan yang sudah terlewati. Peran pengajar dalam menghadapi masalah ini dapat di lakukan melalui desain model pembelajaran berbasis masalah berbantuan media sofware untuk mengefektifkan pembelajaran, salah satunya software geogebra. Hasil penelitian dalam menerapkan model Discovery Learnig berbantuan Geogebra menunjukkan bahwa terjadi peningkatan kemampuan pemecahan masalah setelah terjadi proses pembelajaran, terjadinya ketuntasan kemampuan pemecahan masalah dan kemampuan pemecahan masalah mahasiswa yang diajarkan dengan model Discovery learning berbantuan Geogebra lebih baikdari mahasiswa yang diajarkan dengan model konvensional.

Kata kunci: Discovery learning, Pemecahan Masalah, Geogebra
IMMUNOMODULATORY ACTIVITY OF THE CHENOPODIUM OPULIFOLIUM TOTAL CRUDE EXTRACT IN WISTER ALBINO RATS
Authors: Tibitondwa Josephine , Ikwap Kokas , Tamale Andrew , Tamale Andrew , Tumwine Gabriel , Kateregga John , Wamala Samuel P. , Kato Charles D.
Published: February 2018

Background: Chronic disease conditions like cancer, diabetes, malnutrition and HIV/AIDS compromise the immune system thus necessitating immune boasting. The use of medicinal herbs in immunomodulation is now common, albeit with limited evidence regarding efficacy. We therefore investigated the immunomodulatory activity of the total crude leaf and stem extract of Chenopodium opulifolium in mice.

Materials and methods: An experimental study was conducted using four groups of rats each with 6 animals with treatments administered daily for 29 days. Group one served as the positive control and received 20mg/kg of levamisole. Group 2, the negative control received 2 ml of an olive oil and normal saline mixture. Groups 3 and 4 received 100mg/kg and 200mg/kg bwt of the total crude leaf and stem extract respectively. On the 15th day, whole blood was collected for complete blood count and delayed type hypersensitivity response determination, haemagglutination antibody titer assay was done on blood collected on the 29th day.

Results: Results revealed that the extract had a significant (P< 0.05) effect on haemagglutination antibody titers with the highest response observed in the extract group at 200mg/kg (30.67±1.33). The mean WBC (3.13±0.71×103/μl), neutrophil (0.93±0.48 cells/ μl) and lymphocyte (2.20±0.00 cells/ μl) counts in the 200mg/kg bwt extract group were elevated to levels comparable to the positive control.

Conclusion: The total crude extract of Chenopodium opulifolium exhibits immunomodulatory activity in a dose dependent manner. Future studies utilizing pure extracts in order to pin point to the extract mechanism responsible for Immunomodulation are required for more conclusive results.
SODIUM AESCINATE INJECTION FOR SKIN FLAP TRANSPLANTATION OF HAND OR FOOT IN CHILDREN
Authors: Liyou Wei , Zhikui Liu , Hongwei Zhang , Guoqian Wang
Published: February 2018

Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficiency and safety of sodium aescinate injection for treating children suffering transplanted flap in children hand or foot.

Materials and Methods: Ninety children patients with transplanted cutaneous nerve nutrition vascular flaps in hand or foot were selected and divided into “treatment” and “control” groups randomly by computer. The treatment group was prescribed intravenous sodium aescine injection and conventional therapy. The control group was only offered conventional therapy. Seven days following treatment, cumulative wound drainage, swelling of flap and adverse reactions were recorded. One month subsequent to treatment, two-point discrimination of flap was recorded. At the outset of treatment (0-d) and 1, 3, 7-days following treatment, the concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) and malondialdehyde(MDA) in venous blood were tested.

Results: At the outset of treatment, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of CRP and MDA (P>0.05). At 3 and 7 day intervals following treatment, the concentrations of CRP and MDA in treatment group were lower than those in control group (P
ANTIOXIDANT AND HYPOGLYCEMIC EFFECTS OF WATERCRESS (NASTURTIUM OFFICINALE) EXTRACTS IN DIABETIC RATS
Authors: Fenton-Navarro B. , Martínez MV. Urquiza , Castro BB. Fiscal , Castillo OI. Medrano , López-Rodríguez M. , Padilla Arellanes S. , Vázquez Hernández A.
Published: February 2018

Background: Watercress is a semi-aquatic plant used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as flu, cough, avitaminosis, and anorexia; it is also used as a diuretic and for hypoglycemia treatment in diabetes. In this study, we report the antioxidant and hypoglycemic activity of orally administered aqueous (WAQE), acetonic (WAE), and alcoholic (WOHE) watercress extracts. The effect of subchronic administration of watercress extracts on oxidative stress was also studied.

Materials and Methods: WAQE, WAE, and WOHE were obtained and administered orally. Alloxan (200 mg/kg) and streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) were applied to induce hyperglycemia in male Wistar rats. Phenolic and flavonoid content, as well as antioxidant activity of the extracts were measured. The acute and subchronic effects (8 weeks) of WAQE were evaluated. The activity of antioxidant enzymes levels of malondialdehyde, hepatic enzyme markers in the serum, and renal function markers, were assessed. Histopathological evaluation of the pancreas, kidney, and liver was performed using hematoxylin-eosin staining.

Results: Watercress extracts have high concentrations of phenols, polyphenols, and flavonoids, in addition to a very high antioxidant effect. The hypoglycemic effect of WAQE upon acute administration was 76.6% higher than that of insulin. When administered chronically, glucose levels were normalized on the third week up to the eighth week. Furthermore, the antioxidant enzymes and biochemical parameters improved.

Conclusion: WAQE administration to diabetic rats reduced oxidative stress damage and decreased glucose levels. This study supports the use of this plant for the treatment of diabetes.
Giant Cane Vegetative Buffer for Improving Soil and Surface Water Quality
Authors: Singh Gurbir , Schoonover Jon E. , Williard Karl W. J. , Sweet Audrey L. , Stewart Jonathan
Published: February 2018

Over the past four decades, riparian buffers have proven effective in retaining nutrients and sediment from agricultural runoff. Many grass species have been used with variable success in riparian buffers to improve the water quality of runoff. However, limited information is available on the effectiveness of giant cane [Arundinaria gigantea (Walt.) Muhl] in improving surface water quality compared with grass species such as Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) and orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.). Therefore, the objective of our study was to determine the quality of runoff leaving vegetative buffer plots planted with giant cane, Kentucky bluegrass, and orchardgrass. Additionally, a bare‐ground control and continuous corn (Zea mays L.) was also monitored for comparison of runoff with vegetative buffers. The giant cane treatment had significantly greater infiltration rates (38.18 mm h−1, p < 0.05) than bare ground (1.61 mm h−1), corn (5.75 mm h−1), Kentucky bluegrass (12.30 mm h−1), and orchardgrass (4.21 mm h−1) treatments. Dissolved reactive P in runoff was ranked as follows: corn > giant cane = Kentucky bluegrass = orchardgrass > bare ground. The total P from the corn treatment (1.70 mg L−1, p < 0.05) was significantly higher than for bare ground (1.22 mg L−1), giant cane (0.69 mg L−1), Kentucky bluegrass (0.86 mg L−1), and orchardgrass (0.54 mg L−1). Giant cane, Kentucky bluegrass, and orchardgrass significantly reduced the total P concentration more than bare ground and corn. Results from this study demonstrate the utility of giant cane as a vegetated buffer to reduce nutrient and sediment concentrations in agricultural runoff.

Core Ideas

Giant cane's dense rooting system increased soil porosity and infiltration.

Water‐stable aggregates were highest under giant cane vegetative buffers.

Total suspended solids were lowest for runoff in giant cane vegetative buffers.
An empirical approach for computing surface runoff concentration time
Authors: Bao Shanshan , Wang Xiaojun , Li Hongyan , Lv Hang , Li Yuening
Published: February 2018

This article examines data from the Shihuiyao, Nierji, Tongmeng, Jiangqiao, and Dalai hydrological stations in the Nen River basin to understand the hydrological processes occurring in the catchments. Daily precipitation and runoff data from 1955 to 1973 were combined using the smoothed minima trial method to determine the surface runoff concentration time. Then, a genetic algorithm was used to optimize the parameters and obtain an optimal empirical formula. An improved empirical formula was implemented with the genetic algorithm and optimized parameters then incorporated variable average rainfall intensity, correlation between basin area, surface runoff average concentration time, and average rainfall intensity. Finally, an optimized empirical formula (using genetic algorithm to optimize the parameters) and improved empirical formula (incorporating variable average rainfall intensity) were tested by using the daily precipitation and runoff data from the Baishan and Hongshi hydrological stations of the Second Songhua River. The results show that an optimized and improved formula can be used to more accurately estimate hydrologic conditions in the Nen River. Therefore, the improved formula is an efficient method for calculating surface runoff concentration time. Surface runoff concentration time is an important basis for differentiating source waters, which include surface runoff and underground runoff.
Taguchi optimization approach for metronidazole removal from aqueous solutions by using graphene oxide functionalized β-cyclodextrin/Ag nanocomposite
Authors: Jafarzadeh Neamatollah , Rezazadeh Hamideh , Ramezani Zahra , Jorfi Sahand , Ahmadi Mehdi , Ghariby Huria , Barzegar Gelavizh
Published: February 2018

Metronidazole (MNZ) is a major threat to the ecosystems and human health, due to its toxicity and carcinogenic nature. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of graphene oxide functionalized β-cyclodextrin/Ag nanocomposite (GO/β-CD/Ag) for MNZ removal from aqueous solution. The effect of operational parameters such as solution pH (2–5), adsorbent dosages (0.2–1 g/L), contact time (10–80 min), initial MNZ concentrations (0.25–10 mg/L) and ionic strength (0.001–0.1 mol/L) was studied using Taguchi experimental design. The maximum removal efficiency of 93.5% was observed for optimum conditions. The optimum values of contact time, the initial MNZ concentration, the ionic strength, the adsorbent dosage and solution pH were found to be 20 min, 0.25 ppm, 0.01 mol/L, 0.4 g/L and 2, respectively. Freundlich and Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherm models were best-fitted with experimental data. Pseudo-first order and type 1 pseudo-second order kinetic models showed the maximum correlation with the experimental data. Adsorption experiments with real samples indicated that the adsorptive removal of MNZ from a hospital wastewater was 72%. Desorption studies showed maximum recovery of GO/β-CD/Ag nanocomposite during three cycles. According to the obtained results, it can be concluded that the application of carbon adsorbents such as GO/β-CD/Ag can be considered an efficient method for final treatment of effluents containing antibiotics.
Aedes aegypti: modelo experimental de atividade biológica de fitoprodutos
Authors: Serdeiro Michele Teixeira , Honório Nildimar Alves , Maleck Marise
Published: February 2018

Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) é reconhecido como transmissor de várias arboviroses de importância na saúde pública, como a dengue, zika, chikungunya e febre amarela urbana. O principal método de prevenir a transmissão desses vírus ainda é o controle do mosquito vetor. Produtos naturais de origem vegetal vêm sendo investigados, como mais uma ferramenta no controle de vetores, e compostos menos impactantes ao meio ambiente e a saúde humana. Devido à importância deste culicídeo, buscou-se extrato e frações de C. catharinensis com atividade larvicida sobre Ae. aegypti. O extrato bruto metanólico (EBM) e sua fração (EBM 1) obtidos da embaúba foram aplicados no meio de criação das larvas (L3) nas concentrações de 10, 30 e 50 μg/mL. O tratamento com C. cahtarinensis resultou na alteração do período de desenvolvimento larval, pupal e de L3-adulto do mosquito. A mortalidade pupal (25%) foi obtida pela fração EBM1. Este estudo demonstrou a eficácia de C. catharinensis sobre o período de desenvolvimento de Ae. aegypti.
Olhar-se sem cabelos - estudo de enfermagem sobre mulheres com alopécia decorrente da quimioterapia antineoplásica
Authors: Souza Marilei De Melo Tavares , Moura Fabrícia De Mello Cordeiro , Silva Thiago Augusto Soares Monteiro da , Costa Pamela Dos Santos , Figueiredo Nébia Maria Almeida de , Passos Joanir Pereira
Published: February 2018

Mulheres passam a ter o corpo fragmentado durante tratamento oncológico, com queda dos cabelos decorrente da quimioterapia antineoplásica. Objetiva-se identificar reações de mulheres submetidas à quimioterapia antineoplásica frente à perda de seu cabelo; e discutir as implicações advindas da alopecia para implantação de estratégias para o cuidado e enfermagem a clientes com câncer em quimioterapia antineoplásica. Metodologia: pesquisa qualitativa com abordagem metodológica da Sociopoética. Com 30 mulheres em tratamento quimioterápico, no Centro Oncológico de Vassouras/RJ. Dados da pesquisa obtidos em dinâmica de sensibilidade/criatividade e entrevista. Com aprovação do CEP, em cumprimento a Resolução 510/16 do CNS/MS. Resultados: corpo holístico - família e religião representam o momento que vivenciaram queda dos cabelos; corpo belo - feminilidade não foi afetada pela alopecia, importaram-se em estar vivas; corpo ecológico - animais e paisagens representam a fase como sendo de transformação; corpo doente/mutilado – alopecia é passageira. Conclusão: o estudo permitiu identificar feminilidade entre as mulheres mesmo sem cabelos. Este estudo se configura como contribuição para o cuidado de enfermagem a mulheres com alopecia em decorrência da quimioterapia.
OCORRÊNCIA DE ESTRUTURAS PARASITÁRIAS E MICROBIANAS EM Apis mellifera (HYMENOPTERA: APIDAE) COLETADAS EM ZONA URBANA.
Authors: Garcia Alan Miranda , Soares Lidiane De Castro , Carraro Vinicius Marins
Published: February 2018

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi o de avaliar o potencial de abelhas na veiculação de estruturas parasitarias e bacterianas em locais públicos dos Municípios de Vassouras e de Volta Redonda, no estado do Rio de Janeiro. Espécimes foram coletados no Campus e em feiras livres. As análises foram realizadas no período de outubro de 2011 a março de 2012 no laboratório de Parasitologia e Microbiologia da Universidade Severino Sombra. Foram coletados 36 exemplares na cantina da Universidade Severino Sombra e 58 exemplares no Município de Volta Redonda. Não foram encontradas estruturas parasitárias nos insetos analisados, porém, foram identificados micro-organismos não patogênicos do gênero Bacillus.
Produção e caracterização de compósitos de concreto com adição de pneus automotivo.
Authors: Camargo Cardoso Rafael , De Freitas Cabral Ricardo
Published: February 2018

O presente trabalho teve como motivador o crescimento exponencial do número de pneus descartados inadequadamente no meio ambiente assim como os impactos ambientais que os mesmos causam para o meio. Tem-se como objetivo principal introduzir pneus com granulometrias similares a da areia na confecção do cimento para a construção de pisos. Para tal utilizou-se como referencia um matriz onde não havia percentual de agregado para à partir desses resultados fazermos os comparativos com compósitos de medidas pré-estabelecidas de adição do pneu (5% e 10%). Como instrumentos para análise comparativa foi feito o uso dos testes de compressão axial e de Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV). Com os resultados obtidos com o teste de compressão é possível descrever que quando mais borracha adicionada á matriz maior a perda de Tensão da mesma, ou seja, a adição de borracha é inversamente proporcional a Tensão. Com base nas análises obtidas com o Microscópio Eletrônico de Varredura, conclui-se que não há uma perfeita homogeneização entre a matriz e o reforço devido à geometria do reforço, sendo assim há a presença de lacunas que apresentam baixo desempenho para o material.
Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis: Efficacy of Treatment for Male Patients and miRNA Biomarker
Authors: Wang Hsiuying
Published: February 2018

Background:

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is an
acute form of encephalitis. Treatments for the anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis usually include
steroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, plasma exchange, plasmapheresis, rituximab,
cyclophosphamide and tumor resection.

Objective:

We aimed to compare the efficacy of the treatments including intravenous immunoglobulin,
plasma exchange, plasmapheresis, rituximab or cyclophosphamide for male anti-
NMDA receptor encephalitis patients without tumor and to discuss potential biomarkers for
this disease.

Method:

The Fisher exact test and the contingency table analysis were used to analyze the
treatment efficacy for 43 male and 76 female patients. In addition, a hierarchical tree method
was adopted to analyze the difference in the treatment efficacy between male and female patients.

Results:

The p-values of testing whether the efficacy rate of plasmapheresis (or plasma exchange)
for the male patient is greater than a threshold are significantly different from the pvalues
for the other two treatments. In addition, the hierarchical tree method shows that the
treatment strategy associating with early recovery is different for male and female patients.

Conclusion:

The results revealed that the efficacy rate of plasmapheresis (or plasma exchange)
is not inferior to that of intravenous immunoglobulin and rituximab (or cyclophosphamide)
for male patients without tumor. In addition, B-cell attracting C-X-C motif
chemokine 13 (CXCL13) and microRNA let-7b have the potential to be the treatment response
biomarkers for anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. They may not be useful prognostic
biomarkers for this encephalitis unless they are not biomarkers for other autoimmune encephalitides.
Bis-coumarin Derivatives and Their Biological Activities
Authors: Ren Qing-Cheng , Gao Chuan , Xu Zhi , Feng Lian-Shun , Liu Ming-Liang , Wu Xiang , Zhao Feng
Published: February 2018

Bis-coumarins have caused great interests in the recent years. These compounds exhibit
diverse biological activities which are ascribed to their ability to exert noncovalent interactions with
the various active sites in organisms. Some of them such as dicoumarolum and dicoumarol were approved
for therapeutic purposes in clinical practice. Encouraged by the above facts, numerous biscoumarin
derivatives have been synthesized and screened for their biological activities, and many of
them showed promising potency. This review is focused on the biological potential of bis-coumarin
derivatives with particular mention of those exhibiting antibacterial, anticoagulant, antiinflammatory,
antiviral, anti-parasite and antitumor activities, and their structure-activity relationships
are also discussed.
In VitroEstimation of Photo-Protective Potential of Pomegranate Seed Oil and Development of a Nanoformulation
Authors: Dhawan Surbhi , Nanda Sanju
Published: February 2018

Background: Since ancient times, people have been using natural resources for photoprotection purposes. One such highly recognised natural agent is pomegranate seed oil, considered as wonder oil owing to the presence of several beneficial phytoconstituents.  Objective: The study aimed to establish the photoprotective potential of pomegranate seed oil through various in vitro and biochemical studies along with the formation of nanoemulsion, an efficient topical delivery system for the oil.  Method: Photo-protective potential of the oil was estimated by determining in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, total phenolic content, anti elastase, antihyaluronidase and anticollagenase activities of the oil. Ultrasonication method was used to formulate nanoemulsions. The optimisation was done following the central composite design. The characterisation was done by particle size analysis, zeta potential, polydispersity index, pH, viscosity, stability testing and transmission electron microscopy. The optimised nanoemulsion was loaded into a gel base for topical application and further release studies were carried out.  Results: The IC50 values of anti-elastase, anti-collagenase and anti-hyaluronidase were found to be 309 mg/ml, 4 mg/ml and 95 mg/ml respectively. The results of anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity were also significant, which thereby established the photo-protective potential of the oil. The optimum batch 2 had particle size 83.90 nm, 0.237 PDI and -5.37 mV zeta potential. The morphology was confirmed by TEM. Batch 2 was incorporated into a gel base and release studies showed 74.12 % release within 7 hours.  Conclusion: Pomegranate seed oil possesses a potential photo-protective ability. Nanoemulsions proved to be a promising carrier for the topical delivery of the oil.
Protein Quality, Secondary Structure and Effect of Physicochemical Factors on Emulsifying Properties of Irvingia gabonensis Almonds
Authors: Mune Mune Martin A. , Bassogog Christian B. , Bayiga Pierre A. , Nyobe Carine E. , Minka Samuel R.
Published: February 2018

Background:

There is a constant search of new plant proteins, with adequate nutritional
and functional properties, as well as bioactive properties and low-cost for utilization in various food
formulations.

Objective:

The aim of this work was to access the nutritional and functional potential of protein from
Irvingia gabonensis, for utilization as ingredient or supplement in food.

Methods:

Proximate composition and amino acid were analyzed. Nutritional parameters were calculated
from amino acid composition. Physicochemical properties and secondary structure of protein
were determined. Finally, effect of oil to water ratio (OWR), pH and concentration on emulsifying
properties was analyzed.

Results:

The flour contained 22.26% protein, 5.30% ash and 60% carbohydrates. Proteins contained
all essential amino acids, with high content of Leu, Ile, Val, Thr and sulfur-containing amino acids.
Essential amino acid index (69%), protein efficiency ratio (2.39-2.63) and biological value (79.91%)
were studied. The maximum protein solubility (61%) was noticed at pH 8, while high hydrophobicity
was observed at pH 2. A transition from an irregular secondary structure to a more ordered structure
was found from pH 2-4 to pH 6-10. pH, OWR and concentration significantly affected emulsifying
properties of Irvingia gabonensis almonds. The maximum emulsifying capacity (EC) was observed
under acidic pH and high flour concentration. EC increased with increasing OWR and concentration,
while decreased with increasing pH. High ES (25-35%) was observed at pH 4-8 and OWR of 1/3 to
1/2 (v/v), at flour concentration of 3-4% (w/v).

Conclusion:

Irvingia gabonensis showed good potential as food ingredient or supplement.
There is no Difference Between Sequences of HIV-1 Infected Patients with Stable Clinical Status and HIV-1 Reference Sequence
Authors: Nili Marzyeh , Tayeri Katayoon , Gholami Mohamad , Moallemi Samaneh , Sabahi Farzaneh , Kalhori Saber , Baesi Kazem , Hasibi Mehrdad
Published: February 2018

Background:

The rate of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)
infection in Iran has increased dramatically in the past few years. HIV-1 genome sequences
are pivotal for large-scale studies of inter- and intra-host evolution. To understand
the molecular difference between reference HIV-1 isolate and two HIV-1
infected patients in Iran, we conducted this study to analyze some genome segments
of Iranian HIV-1 isolates.

Methods:

Two HIV-1-infected individuals who were under antiretroviral therapy
(ARV) for 8 years with stable clinical status were enrolled. The patient’s plasma
samples were used for the Gag-Pol genome sequences (4500 nt). The phylogenetic
tree and similarity plotty were obtained based on Gag-Pol sequences.

Results:

Both HIV-1-infected isolates belonged to CRF35_AD subtype even though
one of them had drug resistance. The HIV genome and protein sequences showed no
clear difference between genome and protein sequences of our samples and the
reference sequence.

Conclusions:

Our patient’s stable clinical status had no connection to genome sequence;
which could be owing to immunological factors or other patient’s mode
which are still unknown.
What Motivated Students to Choose a Career in Health Sciences? A Comparison of Rural and Urban-Origin Students in Three South African Universities
Authors: Mabuza L.H. , Ntuli B.
Published: February 2018

Background:

Globally, there is a lower ratio of healthcare worker to population in rural compared to urban areas. Scholars are motivated by a number of factors to choose a career in health sciences. Determining these factors among rural and urban-origin students could inform recruitment and retention strategies to redress this imbalance.

Objectives:

To determine and compare motivating factors for a career in health sciences among Rural-Origin (ROS) and Urban-Origin Students (UOS) at three South African universities.

Methods:

Three institutions (former University of Limpopo (Medunsa Campus), now Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and University of Cape Town (UCT) participated in the study 2011. Health science students completed a self-administered questionnaire. The SAS® (version 9.2) for Microsoft statistical software was used for analysis. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results:

A total of 1633 health sciences students participated in the study. Parents (505; 30.9%) and personal exposure (484; 29.6%) were the main motivating factors for both ROS and UOS, with significantly more UOS than ROS motivated by these factors (p < 0.001). The contribution of role models (93; 5.7%), friends (77; 4.7%), high school teachers (77; 4.7%), mentors (36; 2.2%) and university lecturers (18; 1.1%) was minimal, with no significant difference between UOS and ROS (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

There is need for the health care sector to support students’ families and encourage students’ personal exposure to health care facilities and personnel in order to motivate them towards a career in health sciences.
Identifying Behaviors Predicting Early Morning Emotions by Observing Permanent Supportive Housing Residents: An Ecological Momentary Assessment (Preprint)
Authors: Nandy Rajesh R , Nandy Karabi , Hébert Emily T , Businelle Michael S , Walters Scott T
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Behavior and emotions are closely intertwined. The relationship between behavior and emotions might be particularly important in populations of underserved people, such as people with physical or mental health issues. We used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to examine the relationship between emotional state and other characteristics among people with a history of chronic homelessness who were participating in a health coaching program.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to identify relationships between daily emotional states (valence and arousal) shortly after waking and behavioral variables such as physical activity, diet, social interaction, medication compliance, and tobacco usage the prior day, controlling for demographic characteristics.

METHODS

Participants in m.chat, a technology-assisted health coaching program, were recruited from housing agencies in Fort Worth, Texas, United States. All participants had a history of chronic homelessness and reported at least one mental health condition. We asked a subset of participants to complete daily EMAs of emotions and other behaviors. From the circumplex model of affect, the EMA included 9 questions related to the current emotional state of the participant (happy, frustrated, sad, worried, restless, excited, calm, bored, and sluggish). The responses were used to calculate two composite scores for valence and arousal.

RESULTS

Nonwhites reported higher scores for both valence and arousal, but not at a statistically significant level after correcting for multiple testing. Among momentary predictors, greater time spent in one-on-one interactions, greater time spent in physical activities, a greater number of servings of fruits and vegetables, greater time spent interacting in a one-on-one setting as well as adherence to prescribed medication the previous day were generally associated with higher scores for both valence and arousal, and statistical significance was achieved in most cases. Number of cigarettes smoked the previous day was generally associated with lower scores on both valence and arousal, although statistical significance was achieved for valence only when correcting for multiple testing.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides an important glimpse into factors that predict morning emotions among people with mental health issues and a history of chronic homelessness. Behaviors considered to be positive (eg, physical activity and consumption of fruits and vegetables) generally enhanced positive affect and restrained negative affect the following morning. The opposite was true for behaviors such as smoking, which are considered to be negative.
A secondary analysis of internet-delivered cognitive-behaviour treatment for adults with severe depressive symptoms (Preprint)
Authors: Richards Derek , Duffy Daniel , Burke John , Anderson-Gibbons Melissa , Connell Sarah , Timulak Ladislav
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Depression is a highly prevalent mental health issue that exacts significant economic, societal, personal and interpersonal costs. Innovative internet-delivered interventions have been designed to increase accessibility to and cost-effectiveness of treatments. These treatments have mainly targeted mild to moderate levels of depression. The increased risk associated with severe depression, particularly of suicidal ideation often results in this population being excluded from research studies. As a result, effectiveness of iCBT in more severely depressed cohorts is less researched.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of iCBT on symptoms of severe depression, comorbid symptoms of anxiety and levels of work and social functioning.

METHODS

Retrospective consent was provided by participants with elevated scores (>28 severe depression symptoms) on the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) who accessed an iCBT intervention (Space from Depression) with support for 8 weeks. Data was collected at baseline, post-treatment and 3-month follow-up on the primary outcome the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and secondary outcomes; the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and the Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS).

RESULTS

Significant change was observed on all measures between pre- and post- measurement, and maintained at 3-month follow-up. Clinical improvement was observed for participants on the BDI-II from pre- to post- measurement and suicidal ideation also reduced from pre- to post- measurement.

CONCLUSIONS

Space from Depression was found to decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety and increase work and social functioning for individuals with severe depression symptoms. The intervention also demonstrated its potential to decrease suicidal ideation. Further investigation is required to determine why some individuals improve, and others do not. ICBT may have the potential to be used as an adjunct treatment for severe depression symptoms, but participants may require further treatment if they receive iCBT as a standalone. Although promising, further research is needed to support the utility of Space from Depression for use in or as an adjunct to treatment for severe depression.
Are the Wealthy Also Healthy? An Empirical Evaluation of the Financial Health of Chinese Foundations
Authors: Wang Qun , He Lijun
Published: February 2018

Since the enactment of the 2004 Regulations of Management of Foundations, only limited research has focused on the financial health of Chinese foundations. However, given their importance in the nonprofit sector, study of these foundations is essential. This study comprised an empirical evaluation of the financial health of Chinese foundations based on a sample of 2,763 foundations and 10,102 observations. The Tuckman and Chang (1991) model, which measures adequacy of equity, revenue diversification, administrative cost ratio, and operating margin, revealed three major findings: (1) two-thirds of the Chinese foundations were financially unhealthy; (2) from 2008 to 2013, foundations’ overall financial health experienced moderate improvement, with public foundations outperforming private foundations; and (3) newer foundations may improve their health more quickly than older foundations. However, because their level of improvement ranged from low to moderate, these financial health scores should be interpreted conservatively. The decreased number of unhealthy foundations does not mean foundations have improved on all measures. Public foundations did not perform better on all measures than private foundations. In the period mentioned above, newer foundations improved on equity ratio and revenue diversification.
Central Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Rahman Mahboob , Hsu Jesse Yenchih , Desai Niraj , Hsu Chi-yuan , Anderson Amanda H. , Appel Lawrence J. , Chen Jing , Cohen Debbie L. , Drawz Paul E. , He Jiang , Qiang Pan , Ricardo Ana C. , Steigerwalt Susan , Weir Matthew R. , Wright Jackson T. , Zhang Xiaoming , Townsend Raymond R. ,   for the CRIC Study Investigators
Published: February 2018

Background and objectives

Central BP measurements provide noninvasive measurement of aortic BP; our objectives were to examine the association of central and brachial BP measurements with risk of cardiovascular outcomes and mortality in patients with CKD and to determine the role of central BP measurement in conjunction with brachial BP in estimating cardiovascular risk.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

In a prospective, longitudinal study (the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort), central BP was measured in participants with CKD using the SphygmoCorPVx System. Cox proportional hazards models were used for analyses.

Results

Mean age of the participants (n=2875) was 60 years old. After a median follow-up of 5.5 years, participants in the highest quartile of brachial systolic BP (≥138 mm Hg) were at higher risk for the composite cardiovascular outcome (hazard ratio, 1.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.17 to 2.17; c statistic, 0.76) but not all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 0.90 to 1.80) compared with those in the lowest quartile. Participants in the highest quartile of central systolic BP were also at higher risk for the composite cardiovascular outcome (hazard ratio, 1.69; 95% confidence interval, 1.24 to 2.31; c statistic, 0.76) compared with participants in the lowest quartile.

Conclusions

We show that elevated brachial and central BP measurements are both associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease outcomes in patients with CKD. Measurement of central BP does not improve the ability to predict cardiovascular disease outcomes or mortality in patients with CKD compared with brachial BP measurement.
Factor structure and psychometric properties of the Insomnia Severity Index in Mainland China
Authors: Lin Rong-Mao , Xie Shan-Shan , Yan Wen-Jing , Yan You-Wei
Published: February 2018

We explored the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) using 3 samples totaling 2,066 Mainland Chinese undergraduates. All participants completed the ISI and Sample 2 completed 3 other related measures. Their responses were processed using
exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and multiple group analyses. The EFA results revealed a 2-factor structure, whereas the CFA results supported a 3-factor solution, the latter of which was further confirmed by the results of multiple group analyses. The
Chinese version of the ISI had a satisfactory Cronbach's alpha coefficient of internal reliability, 2-week test–retest reliability, and criterion validity. Overall, we found that the ISI is a reliable, valid, and psychometrically sound measure of insomnia for use with Mainland Chinese
undergraduates.
Predicting the Effect of Fenofibrate on Cardiovascular Risk for Individual Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Koopal Charlotte , Visseren Frank L.J. , Westerink Jan , van der Graaf Yolanda , Ginsberg Henry N. , Keech Anthony C.
Published: February 2018

OBJECTIVE

In clinical trials, treatment with fenofibrate did not reduce the incidence of major cardiovascular events (MCVE) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, treatment effects reported by trials comprise patients who respond poorly and patients who respond well to fenofibrate. Our aim was to use statistical modeling to estimate the expected treatment effect of fenofibrate for individual patients with T2DM.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

To estimate individual risk, the FIELD risk model, with 5-year MCVE as primary outcome, was externally validated in T2DM patients from ACCORD and the SMART observational cohort. Fenofibrate treatment effect was estimated in 17,142 T2DM patients from FIELD, ACCORD, and SMART. Individual treatment effect, expressed as absolute risk reduction (ARR), is the difference between treated and untreated MCVE risk. Results were stratified for patients with and without dyslipidemia (i.e., high triglycerides and low LDL cholesterol).

RESULTS

External validation of the FIELD risk model showed good calibration and moderate discrimination in ACCORD (C-statistic 0.67 [95% CI 0.65–0.69]) and SMART (C-statistic 0.66 [95% CI 0.63–0.69]). Median 5-year MCVE risk in all three studies combined was 6.7% (interquartile range [IQR] 4.0–11.7) in patients without (N = 13,224) and 9.4% (IQR 5.4–16.1%) in patients with (N = 3,918) dyslipidemia. The median ARR was 2.15% (IQR 1.23–3.68) in patients with dyslipidemia, corresponding with a number needed to treat (NNT) of 47, and 0.22% (IQR 0.13–0.38) in patients without dyslipidemia (NNT 455).

CONCLUSIONS

In individual patients with T2DM, there is a wide range of absolute treatment effect of fenofibrate, and overall the fenofibrate treatment effect was larger in patients with dyslipidemia. The method of individualized treatment effect prediction of fenofibrate on MCVE risk reduction in T2DM can be used to guide clinical decision making.
A liberdade e o poder dos signos uma discussão contemporânea
Authors: Serafim Bertoloto José , Marques Bernardino Paulo Vitor
Published: February 2018

Os signos configurados em memes, selfies e fake news presentes no ciberespaço, resultado da apropriação e remodelação de elementos culturais, são conteúdos produzidos e compartilhados pelos interagentes em grande quantidade e velocidade na rede. Neste panorama discute-se a noção de pós-verdade, a partir da qual apelos à emoção sobrepõem os fatos objetivos. A predominância da imagem nessas produções e a sua propagação no ambiente digital foram analisadas a partir das teorias de Peirce e Jenkins com a finalidade de possibilitar uma variante de leitura sobre o que circula nas redes sociais digitais e sua relação com o conhecimento geral das imagens no país e no mundo. Na sequência, descrevemos as particularidades dos memes, selfies e fake news a partir de exemplos recentes, especialmente no âmbito político do cenário brasileiro. Por fim, apontamos esses conteúdos, orientados visualmente, como suporte para a socialização de crenças e valores em que a busca de visualizações, comentários e compartilhamentos torna-se mais importante do que a veracidade das informações.
Empleo de aplicaciones tecnológicas en el tratamiento de temas de Probabilidad y Estadística. Dificultades presentadas por los estudiantes en la formulación de planteamientos correctos / Use of technological applications in the treatment of Probability and Statistics subjects. Difficulties presented by students in formulating correct approaches
Authors: Ruiz Ledesma Elena Fabiola
Published: February 2018

En la presente investigación se aborda la problemática de la dificultad que presentan los estudiantes en el planteamiento de soluciones adecuadas a problemas que comúnmente se emplean en la materia de Probabilidad y Estadística en el nivel superior. Se encontró que tanto las diversas temáticas abordadas en los problemas de probabilidad, las cuales no les son familiares a los estudiantes, además del lenguaje que es empleado en los textos, les causa conflicto y una inadecuada interpretación de los problemas, lo que los conduce a proponer un planteamiento erróneo en sus soluciones.El marco conceptual que soporta este estudio con respecto a la relación que existe entre el lenguaje y las matemáticas proviene de las ideas de Chomsky que subrayan la importancia de esclarecer aspectos semánticos en los problemas de matemáticas, así como las de Duval, quien pone énfasis en las representaciones y sus implicaciones para el estudio de los procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje de las matemáticas. Con respecto a su desarrollo, este estudio tiene un enfoque social constructivista debido a los contextos que abordan los problemas con los que se trabajan.Se empleó una metodología experimental al trabajar con un grupo de 32 estudiantes quienes cursaban la materia de Probabilidad y Estadística en su tercer semestre de la carrea de Ingeniería en Sistemas Computacionales.  Durante el proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje de dicha materia, se propuso el empleo de diferentes plataformas y aplicaciones tecnológicas para tener un acercamiento diferente al usual.Tanto los estudiantes como los docentes que participaron en el estudio fueron notificados del trabajo que se realizaría, respetando su decisión en la participación de este.Primero, se aplicó un cuestionario para conocer su percepción en relación con el uso de la tecnología; después y durante un mes, se trabajó con el grupo con distintas aplicaciones tecnológicas; y finalmente, se aplicó un cuestionario de evaluación.Los resultados indicaron que uno de los recursos o estrategias que ayudan en la comprensión de los problemas es el uso de material videográfico que represente las situaciones planteadas, permitiendo al estudiante visualizar diversos aspectos de los problemas y no solo trabajar en el terreno algebraico y con el uso exclusivo de fórmulas. Además, la formulación de varias preguntas condujo al estudiante tanto a la determinación de las variables involucradas, como a aclarar lo que se está solicitando medir, evaluar o encontrar en un problema.
Analisis SWOT terhadap Pengelolaan Unit Kegiatan Mahasiswa Manna Proxia Theater Universitas Pelita Harapan
Authors: Chandra Elia Yovan
Published: February 2018

Manna Proxia Theater (MPT) adalah sebuah Unit Kegiatan Mahasiswa (UKM) di Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) yang bergelut di bidang seni peran. Keunikan pengelolaan MPT adalah karena ia lahir di bawah pengelolaan pendidikan yang memiliki kontrol ketat khas Universitas Pelita Harapan, namun pada perkembangannya juga dikelola bersama dengan mahasiswa melalui Badan Pengurus Harian (BPH-MPT). Pada saat ini, MPT menghadapi berbagai tantangan seperti minimnya fasilitas, regulasi yang memberatkan, dan dukungan dana yang kurang. Bagaimanapun, terdapat pula peluang pengembangan MPT seiring tumbuhnya industri kreatif serta teknologi di Jakarta. Untuk itu, MPT perlu memiliki strategi pengelolaan yang dapat mengakomodasi sumber daya yang dimilikinya terus berkembang sebagai sebuah UKM. Analisa SWOT diaplikasikan untuk mengidentifikasi dan menganalisa eksistensi MPT saat ini dan bagaimana MPT dapat terus mempertahankan produktifitasnya tanpa kehilangan orientasinya. Penelitian dilakukan dengan mewawancarai beberapa pihak kunci (key person) di MPT dan memformulasikan hasilnya dalam sajian Matriks IE, Kuadran SWOT, dan Matriks SWOT. Hasilnya, ditemukan bahwa kondisi MPT saat ini berada dalam posisi potensial untuk tumbuh dan melakukan perluasan pasar. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan berbagai strategi seperti memperluas pasar, mengembangkan produk baru, membangun integrasi dengan berbagai pihak, dan selalu menghadirkan karya yang unik dan menarik perhatian mahasiswa UPH.
PERAN RUMAH BUDAYA TEMBI DALAM MELAHIRKAN KOMPONIS MUDA MELALUI AJANG FESTIVAL
Authors: Asmoro Ganang Dwi
Published: February 2018

Artikel dalam tulisan ini untuk mengetahui bagaimana peran Rumah Budaya Tembi dalam melahirkan komposer-komposer muda. Metode yang akan digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah dengan pendekatan studi kasus. Metode pengumpulan data yang akan dilakukan dalam penelitian ini dengan melakukan observasi, wawancara dan studi pustaka. Sumber data ini diperoleh melalui informan, pustaka dan dokumen. Untuk menganalisis data penelitian ini, dilakukan dengan mereduksi data, penyajian data, memverifikasi atau penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa Rumah Budaya Tembi berperan terhadap munculnya komposer muda melalui ajang festival yang diselenggarakan. Festival musik Tembi yang diselenggarakan setahun sekali ini mampu memberikan wadah bagi para komposer muda untuk mengekspresikan imajinasinya dengan menghadirkan karya seninya.