bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occurrence of Physiological Browning Disorders in Stored ‘Braeburn’ Apples as Influenced by Orchard and Weather Conditions
Authors: McCormick Roy , Biegert Konni , Streif Josef
Published: February 2021

Physiological storage disorders continue to cause sizable economic losses in a range of commercially important pomefruit cultivars. Given similar storage regimes, the incidence and severity of browning disorders in the apple cultivar ‘Braeburn’ can vary in different years in a way that can be explained by the interaction of preharvest seasonal and orchard factors. Over a three-year period (2016 to 2019) at the Kompetenzzentrum Obstbau-Bodensee (KOB) in Southwest Germany a range of orchard and storage treatments were conducted for: air temperature during cell division for three weeks post petalfall or during four weeks preharvest, calcium orchard sprays, crop load and harvest timings. Following controlled atmosphere (CA) storage, the disorder incidence for internal browning and cavity formation varied markedly over the three different growing seasons. Crop load treatments strongly influenced the expression of browning disorders in all years. Differences in air temperatures (△ +/- 2 °C compared to ambient) during the cell division period showed little effect on browning incidence. Warm night temperatures (>10 °C) prior to harvest can reduce internal browning in ‘Braeburn’ apples during CA storage and shelf-life.
Phenethyl Isothiocyanate, a Bioactive Agent for Gastrointestinal Health: A Review
Authors: Coscueta Ezequiel , Sousa Ana Sofia , Reis Celso , Pintado Manuela
Published: February 2021

The incidence of gastrointestinal diseases (cancer in particular) has increased progressively with considerable morbidity, mortality, and a high economic impact on the healthcare system. Dietary intake of natural bioactive phytochemicals showed to have cancer-preventing and therapeutic effects. This includes the cruciferous vegetable derivative phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), a bioactive compound from watercress. PEITC antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties are of particular importance. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the role of PEITC as a potential natural nutraceutical or an adjuvant against oxidative/inflammatory-related disorders in the gastrointestinal tract. We also discuss the safe and recommended dose of PEITC. Besides, we establish a framework to guide the research and development of sustainable methodologies for obtaining and stabilizing this natural nutraceutical for industrial use. This is a topic that still needs more scientific development, but with the potential to lead to a viable strategy in the prevention of cancer and other associated diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Psychiatric Comorbidity in Mexican Adolescents with a Diagnosis of Eating Disorders its Relationship with the Body Mass Index
Authors: Ruiz-Ramos David , Martínez-Magaña José Jaime , García Ana Rosa , Juarez-Rojop Isela Esther , González-Castro Thelma Beatriz , Tovilla-Zárate Carlos Alfonso , Sarmiento Emmanuel , López-Narvaez María Lilia , Sanchez Nicolini , Genis-Mendoza Alma Delia
Published: February 2021

(1) Background: The prevalence of comorbid psychiatric disorders among the patients with mental disorders is higher than general population. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of comorbid psychiatric disorders among a Mexican adolescent sample diagnosed with eating disorders; (2) Methods: Only Mexican adolescents diagnosed with eating disorders were included in the study. The diagnoses were using the DSM-5 criteria. Adolescents with ages between 12 to 17 years were included. The psychiatric comorbidities were evaluated using MINI-kid and QEWP-R. In addition, the z-score values calculated from BMI; (3) Results: The mean age was 14.08±1.7 years old. In our Mexican sample the diagnoses more frequently were bulimia nervosa (55.61%). We found that 89% of the Mexican adolescents with eating disorders had another psychiatric comorbidity. Major depressive disorder (52.40%) and suicide risk (40%) were the most prevalent comorbidity; (4) Conclusions: Our results showed that bulimia nervosa is the most frequently diagnoses in Mexican adolescent and the suicide and major depressive disorder are the principal comorbidities. This emphasizes the importance that clinicians take in-to consideration the presence of psychiatric comorbidities to achieve an integrative treatment for patients with ED.
Toxic Metals in Cereals and Derivatives Consumed in Cape Verde: A Risk Assessment Study
Authors: Rubio-Armendáriz Carmen , Paz Soraya , Gutiérrez Ángel J , Gomes Furtado Verena , González-Weller Dailos , Revert Consuelo , Hardisson Arturo
Published: February 2021

Cereals and their derivatives are the basis of human nutrition. However, cereals also contribute to the dietary exposure to toxic metals that may pose a risk. Strengthening food security and nutrition information is a high priority challenge for the Cape Verde Government. The toxic metals content (Cr, Ni, Sr, Al, Cd, Pb) has been determined in 126 samples of cereals and derivatives (rice, corn gofio, corn flour, wheat flour, corn, wheat) consumed in Cape Verde. Wheat flour samples stand out for registering the highest Sr (1.60 mg/kg), Ni (0.25 mg/kg) and Cr (0.13 mg/kg). The results show relevant Al levels (1.17 – 13.4 mg/kg) with its highest levels in corn gofio. The mean Pb average content in the cereals is 0.03 – 0.08 mg/kg with the highest level observed in corn gofio. The Al and Pb levels are lower in cereals without husks. A consumption of 100 g/day of corn gofio provide an intake of 1.34 mg Al/day (13.7% of the tolerable weekly intake established at 1 mg/kg bw/week) and 8 µg Pb/day (20% of the BMDL set at 0.63 µg/kg bw/day for nephrotoxic effects). The minimization of the dietary exposure of the Cape Verdean population to toxic metals is through the importation of higher quality cereals.
COR/LEA Proteins as Indicators of Frost Tolerance in Triticeae: A Comparison of Controlled Versus Field Conditions
Authors: Kosová Klára , Klíma Miroslav , Prášil Ilja Tom , Vítámvás Pavel
Published: February 2021

Low temperatures in the autumn induce enhanced expression/relative accumulation of several cold-inducible transcripts/proteins with protective functions from Late-embryogenesis-abundant (LEA) superfamily including dehydrins. Several studies dealing with plants grown under controlled conditions revealed a correlation (significant quantitative relationship) between dehydrin transcript/protein relative accumulation and plant frost tolerance. However, to apply these results in breeding, field experiments are necessary. The aim of the review is to provide a summary of the studies dealing with the relationships between plant acquired frost tolerance and COR/LEA transcripts/proteins relative accumulation in cereals grown in controlled and in the field conditions. The impacts of cold acclimation and vernalization processes on the ability of winter-type Triticeae to accumulate COR/LEA proteins are discussed. The factors determining dehydrin relative accumulation under controlled cold acclimation treatments versus field trials during winter seasons are discussed. In conclusion, it can be stated that dehydrins could be used as suitable indicators of winter surival in field-grown winter cereals but only in plant prior to the fullfilment of vernalization requirement.
A Scientometric Approach to Review the Role of the Medial Preoptic Area (MPOA) in Parental Behavior
Authors: Carollo Alessandro , Balagtas Jan Paolo Macapinlac , Neoh Michelle Jin-Yee , Esposito Gianluca
Published: February 2021

Research investigating the neural substrates underpinning parental behaviour has recently gained momentum. Particularly, the hypothalamic medial preoptic area (MPOA) has been identified as a crucial region for parenting and other parent-related behaviour. The current study conducted a scientometric analysis of publications from 01 January 1972 to 19 January 2021 using CiteSpace software to determine trends in the scientific literature exploring the relationship between MPOA and parental behaviour. 677 scientific papers were analysed, producing a network of 1,509 nodes and 5,498 links. Four major clusters were identified: ``C-Fos Expression", ``Lactating Rat", ``Medial Preoptic Area Interaction" and ``Parental Behavior". Their content suggests an initial trend in which the properties of the MPOA in response to parental behavior were studied, followed by a growing attention towards the presence of a brain network, including the reward circuits, regulating such behavior. Furthermore, while attention was initially directed uniquely to maternal behavior, it has recently been extended to the understanding of paternal behaviors as well. Finally, although the majority of the studies were conducted on rodents, recent publications broaden the implications of previous documents to human parental behavior, giving insight into the mechanisms underlying postpartum depression. Potential directions in future works were also discussed.
Smart Nanoparticles in Biomedicine: An Overview of Recent Developments and Applications
Authors: Campora Simona , Ghersi Giulio
Published: February 2021

Nanotechnology is an emerging field of modern science based on the use of nanoparticles (NPs) with a huge potential in many sectors, including nanomedicine. Their small size confers them unique properties because they are subject to physical laws that are in the middle between classical and quantum physics. In this context, NPs project plays a pivotal role because the composition, size, shape and surface proprieties need to be carefully considered for their optimal design and application. As reported in this review, NPs are classified in inorganic (metallic NPs; quantum dots; carbon-based nanostructures; mesoporous silica nanoparticles) and organic (liposomes and micelles, dendrimers and polymer nanoparticles) ones. Here, we report an accurate description of the potential of each NPs type focusing on their multiple areas of application like theranostics drug delivery, imaging, tissue engineering, antimicrobial techniques and nanovaccines, and therefore they represent a promise to revolutionize the new era of nanomedicine, especially in cancer research.
Flavonoids in Lemon and Grapefruit IntegroPectin
Authors: Scurria Antonino , Sciortino Marzia , Albanese Lorenzo , Nuzzo Domenico , Zabini Federica , Meneguzzo Francesco , Alduina Rosa V. , Presentato Alessandro , Pagliaro Mario , Avellone Giuseppe , Ciriminna Rosaria
Published: February 2021

Following the analysis of terpenes present in new lemon and grapefruit “IntegroPectin” pectins obtained via the hydrodynamic cavitation of industrial lemon and grapefruit processing waste, the HPLC-MS analysis of the flavonoid compounds reveals the presence of eriocitrin, naringin, hesperidin and kaempferol typical of the respective citrus fruits. The pectic fibers rich in rhamnogalacturonan-I “hairy” regions act as chemical sponges adsorbing and concentrating at their outer surface highly bioactive citrus flavonoids and terpenes. These findings, together with the unique molecular structure of these new whole citrus pectins, provide preliminary insight into the broad-scope and powerful biological activity of these biomaterials. Numerous new biomedical applications beyond prevention and treatment of microbial infections and neurodegenerative disease are anticipated.
PEMANFAATAN MEDIA DATA STATISTIK UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN MENGANALISIS MATERI KETIMPANGAN SOSIAL PADA PESERTA DIDIK KELAS XII IPS 2 SEMESTER 1 TAHUN PELAJARAN 2020/2021
Authors: Kurnianingsih Yunika Susila
Published: February 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan pemanfaatan media data statistik untuk meningkatkan kemampuan menganalisis materi ketimpangan sosial pada peserta didik. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan subjek penelitian yaitu peserta didik kelas XII IPS 2 SMA Negeri 1 Randublatung, Kab. Blora, Jawa Tengah, pada semester 1 tahun pelajaran 2020/2021, dengan jumlah peserta didik sebanyak 36 siswa, terdiri dari 12 siswa laki-laki dan 24 siswa perempuan. Metode yang digunakan adalah Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK) dengan desain penelitian menggunakan model Kemmis dan Mc Taggart yang terdiri dari perencanaan, pelaksanaan, pengamatan/observasi, dan refleksi. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan observasi/pengamatan, catatan lapangan, dan tes. Dari hasil sebelum dilakukan siklus melalui tes indikator kemampuan menganalisis peserta didik menunjukkan ketuntasan sebesar 66,6%. Kemudian meningkat pada siklus 1 sampai siklus 2 yaitu siklus 1 sebesar 72% dan siklus 2 sebesar 89%. Kesimpulan dari penelitian ini melalui pemanfaatan media data statistik dapat meningkatkan kemampuan menganalisis materi ketimpangan sosial pada peserta didik kelas XII IPS 2 di SMA Negeri 1 Randublatung semester 1 tahun pelajaran 2020/2021.
STRATEGI PASANGAN SUAMI ISTRI DALAM MENJAGA KEHARMONISAN KELUARGA WANITA KARIR (Studi Kasus Wanita Karir di Desa Pucangan, Kelurahan Pucangan, Kecamatan Kartasura)
Authors: Putri Rakhma Annisa , Gutama Thomas Aquinas
Published: February 2021

Abstract: This study aims to find out the dual role of women as well as the motivation of women to work in the public sector, and to know the impacts and strategies to maintain family harmony. This research is a qualitative research with case study approach. Data were taken with in-depth interview, observation, and documentation. While the technique of selecting informants used purposive sampling. And the data analysis used interactive model analysis. The research results indicate that the strategies of maintaining family harmony in the career woman are (1) Good communication among family members either direct communication with face to face and indirect communication using mobile phone media (2) Family time by utilizing leisure time with undertake joint activities aimed at closing relationships among family members (3) Commitment between husband and wife to be able to carry out obligations with full responsibility (4) Division of domestic duties.

 

Keywords : Strategy, Career Woman, Harmony, Family

Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui peran ganda perempuan serta motivasi perempuan untuk bekerja di sektor publik, dan untuk mengetahui dampak dan strategi untuk menjaga keharmonisan keluarga. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan studi kasus. Data diambil dengan wawancara mendalam, observasi, dan dokumentasi. Sedangkan teknik pemilihan informan menggunakan purposive sampling. Analisis data menggunakan analisis model interaktif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa strategi menjaga kerukunan keluarga dalam karir wanita adalah (1) Komunikasi yang baik antar anggota keluarga baik komunikasi langsung dengan tatap muka dan komunikasi tidak langsung menggunakan media handphone (2) Waktu keluarga dengan memanfaatkan waktu senggang dengan melakukan kegiatan bersama yang bertujuan untuk membuat hubungan antar anggota keluarga semakin dekat (3) Komitmen antara suami dan istri untuk dapat melaksanakan kewajiban dengan penuh tanggung jawab (4) Pembagian tugas rumah tangga.

 

Kata kunci: Strategi, Karir Wanita, Harmoni, Keluarga
PEMBINAAN KENAKALAN ANAK OLEH YAYASAN SINAI DI SUKOHARJO
Authors: Fatikasari Agustin , Supriyadi Supriyadi
Published: February 2021

Juvenile delinquency is getting more worrying in both developed and developing countries over times. Juvenile delinquency is also a problem with which any family often complains. One of attempts to be taken to deal with juvenile delinquency is to conduct rehabilitation or mentoring. This research aimed to analyze the type of juvenile delinquency and its cause, to find out the form of building and the factors supporting and inhibiting the mentoring. This research employed Max Weber’s Social Action theory. This qualitative research with case study was conducted in Sukoharjo. The sampling technique employed was purposive sampling technique. The informant of research consists of Chairperson and Mentors of Children in SINAI Foundation of Sukoharjo, and children who have ever committed delinquency and live in SINAI Foundation. Data was collected through observation, in-depth interview, and documentation. To validate the data, source triangulation was used. Technique of analyzing data used was Miles and Huberman’s interactive analysis model. The result of research showed that type of delinquency committed by children residing SINAI Foundation is non-conform action including escaping from home or foundation and playing truant, and antisocial or asocial action including not paying transportation ticket or cost when going by public transportation and large vehicles crossing the road. The cause of delinquency committed by children residing SINAI Foundation included internal and external factors. Internal factor included wish coming from inside. External factor included family environment, economic condition, and friendship environment. The form of children mentoring conducted by SINAI foundation included mental spiritual building, skill building, and discipline building. The factor supporting the mentor was a belief inside assuming that mentoring the needy children was the form of worship to God and that fellow human beings should help each other. Meanwhile the factors supporting the child to attend the mentoring were the presence of complete and feasible facilities for residence and the fulfilled daily need, the access to education and the presence of friends or relatives living there. The factor inhibiting the Mentor included queer SINAI Foundation resident’s queer behavior and sometimes accident occurring during mentoring or treatment. The factor inhibiting the children attending the mentoring was the Mentor’s resoluteness making them sometimes upset and longing for seeing their parents.
STRATEGI MEMPERTAHANKAN KEUTUHAN KELUARGA SOPIR TRUK BERBASIS MODAL SOSIAL DI SURAKARTA
Authors: Kumara Debby Angga , Pujihartati Sri Hilmi
Published: February 2021

The objective of research was to find out the strategy taken by truck driver family to maintain its family intactness and to find out the factors that can result in family intactness among truck drivers. This research employed Robert D. Putnam and Michael Woolcock’s Social Capital. This qualitative research with phenomenological approach was conducted in Surakarta. The sampling technique employed was purposive sampling one. The informant of research consisted of 4 families including 4 truck drivers, 4 drivers’ wives, 3 drivers’ children, and 1 member of surrounding society. Data was collected through observation, interview, and documentation. To validate the data, source triangulation was used.  Technique of analyzing data used was an interactive model of analysis from Miles and Huberman.
The result of research showed that the strategy of maintaining the intactness of truck driver’s family was taken by all family members including fathers, mothers, and children. The strategy of maintaining family intactness using Putnam’s social capital was understandable. Trust could be seen from openness, honesty, and trust concerning family’s income or expense and many problems. Network could be seen from low education, work system with company, inherited truck driving skill, no talent and competency in other type of job. Norm could be seen from appreciating each other’s right and obligation and livelihood for family members. Meanwhile, the strategy of maintaining family intactness using Woolcock’s social capital was understandable including bonding as indicated with honesty, openness, trust, and smooth communication, intensity of meeting time between truck drivers and families, and individual families’ way of solving problems. Bridging could be seen from individual families with rule/norm developed, obeyed, and implemented to organize their families. Linking could be seen from the work system with distributor company, between truck drivers with their own truck and those working with distributor company using either provision or wholesale system.     
 
Height and Extremity-Length Prediction for Healthy Children Using Age-Based Versus Peak Height Velocity Timing-Based Multipliers
Authors: Sanders James O. , Karbach Lauren E. , Cai Xueya , Gao Shan , Liu Raymond W. , Cooperman Daniel R.
Published: February 2021

Background:

The age-based multiplier method described by Paley et al. markedly simplifies height and limb length predictions but may not adequately accommodate children’s maturational differences. Multipliers can be derived relative to any maturity measure. This study compares Paley age-based multipliers with those based on peak height velocity (PHV) timing.

Methods:

In a longitudinal cohort of healthy children (66 male and 70 female), actual adult heights and limb lengths were compared with the measurements predicted using the Paley multipliers and multipliers developed relative to PHV timing. The age-based multipliers (adult divided by current) in our series were compared with those reported by Paley et al. to ensure that there were no systematic differences between the series. Absolute differences between the actual and predicted adult heights and limb lengths and the standard deviations of those differences were compared between the 2 methods.

Results:

The average age-based multipliers in our series were nearly identical to those reported by Paley et al. The differences between the predicted and actual adult values showed wide ranges when either the Paley or the PHV multipliers were used during infancy. The Paley method performed better than the PHV method throughout pre-growth-spurt childhood. The PHV-timing-derived multipliers became superior as children entered their growth spurt, whereas the performance of the age-based multipliers worsened. In adolescence, the maximum standard deviation for adult-height-prediction errors with use of the Paley multipliers occurred at the age of 13.5 years for boys and 11.5 years for girls and was 7.0 cm for boys and 5.6 cm for girls. For limb lengths, the maximum standard deviations occurred 6 months earlier and were 3.9 cm for boys and 3.2 cm for girls. The maximum standard deviation for the height prediction error with the age-based method occurred at the average time of PHV for the population. The PHV method became better than the Paley method just before growth-spurt initiation, at age 8 in girls and 11 in boys.

Conclusions:

The age-based multipliers described by Paley et al. are superior to PHV-timing-based multipliers prior to the adolescent growth spurt for predicting height. They become less predictive, with wide standard deviations, as children enter their growth spurts, and PHV-derived multipliers become superior. The Paley height multipliers should be used before the age of 8 years in girls and 11 years in boys. After this, PHV-derived multipliers are superior for height and limb length prediction. In practice, these predictions are currently made using skeletal maturity, which is closely related to PHV during adolescence.
Reverse Allograft-Prosthesis Composite with Pectoralis Major Transfer After Shoulder Osteosarcoma
Authors: Benavente Sergio , Villagra Joaquín , Valenti Philippe
Published: February 2021

Case report:

We present a case of a 30-year-old man with proximal humerus osteosarcoma and periarticular soft-tissue involvement. Severe humeral and glenoid bone loss was observed, with nonfunctional deltoid after limb-sparing resection and a failed attempt of stabilization. The shoulder was reconstructed using a reverse allograft-prosthesis composite, with deltoid reconstruction by pectoralis major transfer.

Conclusions:

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that this reconstruction technique has been reported in an oncological patient. Favorable clinical and radiological results were achieved at the 24-month follow-up.
First to Fight: Advanced Force Operations and the Future of the Marine Corps
Authors: Friedman B. A.
Published: February 2021

General David H. Berger’s tenure as Commandant of the Marine Corps has set the stage for drastic change toward a Marine Corps more focused on maritime operations. The Commandant has called on these changes to be concept driven and capabilities tested, driving experimentation, wargaming, analysis, research and development, and acquisitions. The Marine Corps is pursuing or developing a number of concepts but lacks an overarching concept that provides context and coherence for conceptual exploration. The author proposes advanced force operations, a concept designed to be broad enough to link together modern concepts like expeditionary advanced base operations and distributed operations, while building on the Marine Corps’ traditions and strengths. Advanced force operations envision Marine Corps forces acting as a vanguard force, competing for maritime access, shaping naval campaigns, and enabling the introduction of Joint forces.
THE CHANGE IN THE HAGIA SOPHIA MUSEUM BY ERDOGAN: HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR INDONESIAN
Authors: Sujati Budi , Iryana Wahyu
Published: February 2021

Peristiwa Penaklukan Konstantinopel pada 1453 menjadi sorotan dunia sekarang ini salah satu pemicunya adalah presiden Turki Recep Tayyip Erdogan mengubah kebijakan status museum Hagia Sophia menjadi Masjid. Hal tersebut mendapatkan respon yang luar biasa dari masyarakat dunia terutama dari Barat dan Islam. Pro dan kontra muncul karena mereka menilai status Hagia Sophia merupakan warisan dunia yang tidak boleh berganti statusnya dan harus menjadi benda cagar budaya. Dari kubu yang mendukung memiliki argumentasi bahwa merupakan hak dan kebebasan suatu negara untuk merubah identitasnya dengan dukungan rakyatnya. Sementara mereka yang menolak status perubahan tersebut dikarenakan akses untuk mengunjungi tempat paling suci dan sakral akan mengalami kesulitan sehingga akan sulit untuk mengunjunginya dengan bebas. Penelitian ini bersifat deskriptif dengan metodologi kualitatif. Metodologi ini digunakan agar bisa menjelaskan suatu fenomena yang terjadi sekarang mengenai isu Hagia Sophia. Salah satu fenomena yang muncul di Indonesia, isu ini mendapat sorotan media nasional hingga internasional bahkan sampai viral. Sebagai umat Islam langkah yang diambil dalam mengambil keputusan yang bijak sesuai dengan sejarahnya melalui pendekatan sejarah dengan tahap heuristik, kritik, interpretasi, dan historiografi. [The Conquest of Constantinople in 1453 is in the spotlight of the world today. One of the triggers is the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan changing the policy of the status of the Hagia Sophia museum into a mosque. This has received a tremendous response from the world community, especially from the West and Islam. Pros and cons arise because they consider the status of the Hagia Sophia to be a world heritage that cannot change its status and must become a cultural heritage object. Those from the supporting camp have argued that it is the right and freedom of a country to change its identity with the support of its people. Meanwhile, those who refuse the change of the status due to access to the most holy and sacred places will experience difficulties so that it will be difficult to visit them freely. This research is descriptive with a qualitative methodology. This methodology is used to explain a current phenomenon regarding the issue of the Hagia Sophia. One of the phenomena that have emerged in Indonesia, this issue became a prime focus of the national to the international media and even viral. As Muslims, steps are taken in making wise decisions by their history through a historical approach with the step of heuristic, criticism, interpretation, and historiography.]
Regression Analysis of Knowledge and Perceptions of COVID-19 in Relation to Stress, Anxiety, and Depression Levels Towards Practice Modifications Among Physicians, Dentists, Medical Students, and Dental Students in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Region
Authors: Kamal Mohammad , AlAli Ahmad M. , Husain Yousif M. , Abdulwahab Mohammad
Published: February 2021

Background: The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has led to unprecedented curfews and restrictions on daily practices and activities. Healthcare professionals, educators, and students need to face various challenges in the era of COVID-19. Our aim is to correlate the knowledge and perception level to COVID-19 among healthcare professionals and students in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to the self-reported depression, anxiety, and stress levels. Attitude towards outreach and volunteering program was also assed in the study.Methods: Online survey was conducted targeting the following categories from the GCC region: dental and medical students, dentists, and medical doctors. Knowledge level to COVID-19 was assessed using a previously validated survey instrument. The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was used to assess the mental health status. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between adequate COVID-19 knowledge scores and DASS scores for depression, anxiety, stress, and total DASS-21 score. Results: Satisfactory knowledge regarding COVID-19 was associated with higher DASS depression and anxiety scores (p <0.001 and p= 0.001) but not with stress scores (p = 0.657). The satisfactory knowledge group also scored higher in the DASS-21 when compared to unsatisfactory knowledge group (p = 0.012). Conclusion: Increasing depression and anxiety scores and total DASS-21 score were associated with greater odds of having satisfactory knowledge of COVID-19. However, stress scores were not associated with satisfactory knowledge of COVID-19. Medical doctors were the least worried about participating in outreach programs, while dentists and medical students were most concerned.
Study on Demethoxycurcumin as a promising approach to reverse methicillin-resistance of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Li Qian-Qian , Kang Ok-Hwa , Kwon Dong-Yeul
Published: February 2021

Background
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has always been a thorny pathogen, posing serious threat to public health. Current treatment resort for MRSA infections is still scarce. Research on phytochemical component that can replace antibiotics with limited efficacy may be an innovative method to solve intractable MRSA infections. The present study was devoted to investigating the antibacterial activity of the natural compound demethoxycurcumin (DMC) against MRSA and exploring its possible mechanism for eliminating MRSA resistance.
Methods
The present study determined minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of DMC, oxacillin, ampicillin and gentamicin against MRSA strains by the broth microdilution method. The synergistic effects of DMC and antibiotics were investigated by the checkerboard method and the time-kill assay. The membrane-permeabilizing agents and ATP synthase inhibitors were employed to explore their impact on the antibacterial ability of DMC. Western blot analysis and qRT-PCR were performed to detect the proteins and genes related to drug resistance and S. aureus exotoxins.
Results
The MIC of DMC against MRSA is 62.5 µg/ml by broth microdilution method. The synergy between DMC and gentamicin was confirmed by checkerboard method and time-kill assay. When ATP synthase inhibitors blocked the metabolic ability of bacteria, the antibacterial effect of DMC was enhanced. The production of penicillin-binding protein 2a (PBP2a) protein and related genes were reduced by DMC at sub-inhibitory concentrations. In addition, DMC hindered the translation of staphylococcal enterotoxin and the transcription of related gene.
Conclusions
Based on our results, DMC has a significant inhibitory effect on the vitality of MRSA, and it can be inferred that the mechanism by which DMC reverses MRSA resistance is related to the ability of DMC to block resistance determinants (PBP2a and β-lactamase) and S. aureus exotoxin. This study provides experimental evidences that DMC has the potential to be a candidate substance for the treatment of MRSA infections.
Determinants of Modern Contraceptive Methods (MCM) discontinuation among childbearing age women in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Authors: Pemba Nathalie , Luhata Christophe , Ebrahim Shahul H , Mukadi Dalau Nkamba , Lombeya Lise , Colebunders Robert , Ditekemena John
Published: February 2021

Background: Family planning (FP) is one of the main strategies to reduce maternal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. However, only 8% of women use modern contraceptive methods in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is estimated that at least 50% of women stop using Modern Contraceptive Methods (MCM) in sub-Saharan Africa. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with MCM discontinuation in Kinshasa.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in Kinshasa from April through June 2019. Three hundred and eighty-seven women who attended 10 health facilities in 10 health zones of Kinshasa (one facility per health zone) were enrolled in the study. Predictors of modern contraceptive discontinuation were investigated, using Cox regression.
Results: The proportion of MCM discontinuation was 21.4% (95% CI: 17.6-25.8); 60.2% for implants and 24.1% for contraceptive injections. Predictors for dicontinuation were: unemployement (Hz.R = 2.23; 95% CI: 1.35 - 3.70; p = 0.003); having no or only one child (Hz.R = 2.89; 95% CI : 1.43 - 5.85; p = 0.015); using a short-acting method (Hz.R = 4.61; 95% CI: 2.81 - 7.56; p <0.001); lack of sufficient explanations about MCM (Hz.R = 3.14; 95% CI: 1.93-5.11; p <0.001) and side effects (Hz.R = 2.93; 95% CI: 1.79 - 4.80; p = 0.001).
Conclusion: MCM discontinuation was high among women in Kinshasa. While it is important to reinforce strategies to increase MCM uptake, it is also critical to increase its continuation.
Adaptation of Intercultural Sensitivity Scale for Turkish Medical Students
Authors: Özvarış Şevkat Bahar , Doğan Bahar Güçiz , Ünlü Hande Konşuk , Şanver Tuğçe M. , Susuz Çağla , Sullivan Richard
Published: February 2021

Background: Different languages and insufficient levels of intercultural sensitivity among healthcare providers hinder migrants from benefiting from health services, resulting in a lack of trust in service providers and non-adherence to the treatment. This study aims to verify the validity and reliability of the “Intercultural Sensitivity Scale” developed by Chen and Starosta among Turkish medical students.
Methods: Data were collected between December 18, 2017, and February 28, 2018, from 667 students. In order to demonstrate the construct validity of the scale, the data were randomly divided into two parts using the functions in the SPSS package program. For the first half of the data (n1=337), exploratory factor analysis (EFA) based on polychoric correlation was applied together with the oblique rotation method. For the second half of the data (n2=330), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) based on polychoric correlations was applied to confirm the factor structure of the scale. In order to demonstrate the reliability of the scale, the Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient, which shows internal consistency, and Spearman-Brown coefficients, which shows the two-half reliability, were calculated.
Results: Of the participants, 52.6% were female and the mean age was 24.2±1.4. Only one-third of the students stated they had knowledge about intercultural sensitivity. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the scale was 0.906. The Spearman-Brown coefficients for the whole scale and its sub-dimensions show that reliability values were also sufficient. In the confirmatory factor analysis, fit indices (RMSEA: 0.077, GFI: 0.98, CFI: 1.00) demonstrated a very good model fit.
Conclusions: These results confirmed that the scale consisting of 23-items and 5-dimensions is a valid and reliable tool and can be used for Grade V and VI Turkish medical students. It is considered that integrating intercultural sensitivity training in undergraduate education of physicians would help to increase the number of physicians who are sensitive to different cultures and thus contribute to reducing disparities in healthcare provision.
Keywords: intercultural sensitivity, scale, medical education, reliability-validity, confirmatory factor analysis, Cronbach’s alpha
A comparison of the efficacy and safety of complementary and alternative therapies for polycystic ovary syndrome A protocol for network meta-analysis
Authors: Pan Jing , Xiang Shan , Dong Shuangqian , Qin Xiuyun , Zhang Jianwei
Published: February 2021

Background: With the increase in the incidence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) over the years, restoring ovulation function has become one of the important contents of reproductive medicine research today. PCOS affects reproductive ability and harms physical and mental health. Studies show both complementary and alternative therapies to be effective in treating PCOS. However, the consistency of the conclusion is still inadequated. In view of this, we will develop a research to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of complementary and alternative therapies for PCOS. We therefore carry on a study protocol for a proposed network meta-analysis (NMA) and systematic review on PCOS.Methods: The following electronic bibliographic database will be searched: PubMed, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP database, Wanfang database, The Cochrane Library, EMBASE and Web of Science from inception till 31 December2020. A search at the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform will also be done. Two researchers will independently screen literature, extract data and assess the risk of bias of included studies. Analysis will be performed on included studies using the NMA technique. Data will be analyzed using ADDIS 1.16.8 and STATA 15.0.Results: This work will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of alternative and complementary therapies used in the treatment of PCOS.Conclusion: The results of this study will provide reliable evidence for clinicians in the field to build on for best practices in effective interventions (complementary and alternative therapies) for PCOS.
Optimizing Quality of Electronic Medical Records as a Platform for Resident Education
Authors: Hung Hsuan , Kueh Ling-Ling , Tseng Chin-Chung , Huang Han-Wei , Wang Shu-Yen , Hu Yu-Ning , Lin Pao-Yen , Wang Jiun-Ling , Chen Po-Fan , Liu Ching-Chuan , Roan Jun-Neng
Published: February 2021

Background Electronic medical records (EMRs) are becoming a predominant feature of health care and an important tool in residents’ medical education. Few studies have examined and compared the EMR performance of residents from different departments. This study explores the quality of EMRs in residency and offers pedagogical implications.Method Authors developed an EMR checklist which examined fundamental EMR requirement through six dimensions and 20 items. A total of 149 records created by residents from 32 departments/stations were randomly chosen. Seven senior physicians rated the EMRs using the checklist. Medical records were grouped as General Medicine, Surgery, Pediatric, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Other Departments. Overall and grouped performances were analyzed by ANOVA.Results Overall performance was rated as fair to good. Regarding the six dimensions, the discharge note (0.81) gained the highest scores, followed by the admission note (0.79), problem list (0.73), overall performance (0.73), progress note (0.71), and weekly summary (0.66).Among the five groups, Other Departments (80.20) gained the highest total score, followed by Obstetrics and Gynecology (78.02), Pediatrics (77.47), General Medicine (75.58), and Surgery (73.92).Conclusions The quality of EMRs, core competencies, and clinical reasoning skills are deeply interconnected in resident education. This study suggested that the use of duplication in EMR, and the communication abilities of residents are associated with the variable quality of medical records in different departments. Further study is required to apply the insights obtained in this study to improve the quality of EMRs, and thereby the effectiveness of resident training.
miR-106b regulates the reprogramming of spermatogonial stem cells into iPSC-like cells
Authors: Fard Amir Hossein Hasani , Valizadeh Mahmoud , Mazaheri Zohreh , Hosseini Jalil
Published: February 2021

Background

Recent years have brought notable progress in raising the efficiency of the reprogramming technique, so that approaches have evolved from known transgenic factors to only a few microRNAs. Nevertheless, there is a poor understanding of both the key factors and biological networks underlying this reprogramming. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the potential of miR-106b in regulating Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) to iPSC-like cells. We used SSCs because pluripotency can be induced in them under defined culture conditions with fewer issues compared to other adult stem cells.

Methods

As both signaling and post-transcriptional gene control are critical for the regulation of pluripotency, we traced the expression of Oct-4, Sox-2, Klf-4, c-Myc, and Nanog (OSKMN), and studied miR-106b targets using bioinformatic methods.

Results

Our results showed that transfected SSCs with miR-106b increased expression of the OSKMN factors, and this expression in iPSC and induced SSC groups was significantly more than negative control groups. Moreover, using the functional miRNA enrichment analysis, online tools, and databases we predicted that miR-106b targeted a signaling pathway gene named MAPK1/ERK2, which regulates stem cell pluripotency.

Conclusions

Together, these data suggest that miR-106b regulates reprogramming of SSCs into iPSC-like cells by targeting the ERK2 gene as a part of the regulatory network that controls the pluripotency state and reprogramming process.
Cardioprotection of Sodium–Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibition in Rats With Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wang Fang-Zheng , Wei Wen-Bo , Li Xin , Huo Jun-Yu , Jiang Wan-Ying , Wang Hong-Yu , Qian Pei , Li Zhen-Zhen , Zhou Ye-Bo
Published: February 2021

Background: Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) has been reported to improve glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of SGLT2i Dapagliflozin (Dapa) on cardiomyopathy induced by isoproterenol (ISO) and its potential mechanism.Methods: Fifty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned to Control (n = 10) and ISO (2.5 mg/kg/day)-treated groups (n = 40). After 2 weeks, 28 survived rats with obvious left ventricular dysfunction in ISO group were randomized into three groups for medication including ARNI (angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor, 68 mg/kg/day, n = 9), Dapa (3 mg/kg/day, n = 9) and ISO (saline, n = 10) for 4 weeks. After that, electrical programmed stimulation (EPS) was performed in all groups for the evaluation of the susceptibility of ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). Echocardiography was used to evaluate cardiac function. Results: Echocardiography revealed significant left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in rats with ISO treatment for 2 weeks compared to the control group. Dapa administration for 4 weeks reduced the cumulative risk of death, myocardial fibrosis, plasma angiotensin II level and its functional receptor AT1R protein expression in the heart, and proinflammatory cytokines levels in the cardiac tissue of ISO-treated rats. It also improved cardiac function and inhibited oxidative stress when compared to the ISO group. These effects were similar to ARNI. However, Dapa showed a greater efficacy than ARNI in reducing left ventricular end-diastolic volume, lowing heart rate and VAs, and decreasing body weight and plasma glucose in ISO-treated rats. Conclusion: Dapa effectively improved the myocardial remodelling and oxidative stress like ARNI in ISO-induced cardiomyopathy in rats, but Dapa may be more effectively in decreasing VAs, and improving cardiac function when compared to ARNI. The mechanisms by which Dapa exerts protective effects on cardiomyopathy may be related to its antioxidant capacity and hypoglycemic action.
Knockdown of SIPA1L3 Inhibits the Proliferation and Invasion of Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells Through the Hippo Pathway
Authors: Wang Si , Han Qiang , Rong Xue-Zhu , Sun Ming-Fang , Diao Ke-Xin , Wang En-Hua , Liu Yang
Published: February 2021

Background: SIPA1L3 is a member of the signal-induced proliferation-associated (SIPA) protein family, only limited data about the SIPA1L3 are currently available in human carcinoma. Our present study provides the expression pattern and function of SIPA1L3 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Methods: We performed immunohistochemistry to detect the distribution of SIPA1L3 in NSCLC specimens and analyzed the relationship between SIPA1L3 expression and patients clinicopathological feature. We used small interfering RNA (siRNA) to specifically silence SIPA1L3, then investigated its effect on cell growth and invasion in human lung cancer cell lines. Western blot and immunoprecipitation were performed to show the interaction of SIPA1L3 with the core proteins of Hippo pathway, and the Hippo pathway activity.Results: Immunohistochemical staining showed that SIPA1L3 was cytoplasmic increasing in 147 of 217 cases. High levels of SIPA1L3 expression were associated with poor differentiation and a high tumor node metastasis stage, positive lymph nodal status, and poor prognosis. Downregulation of SIPA1L3 inhibited cell EMT, growth, and invasion. As well as SIPA1L3 inhibited Hippo pathway. SIPA1L3 interacted with AMOT, which inhibited AMOT binding to Pals, then decreased nuclear location of YAP.Conclusions: SIPA1L3 overexpression may be a marker for advanced NSCLC. SIPA1L3 reduction inhibits the proliferative and invasive ability of the lung cancer cells, which involves the Hippo pathway by contacting with AMOT.
Information Retrieval Sources and Skill, and Knowledge of Evidence-based Dentistry Among Iranian Dental Students
Authors: Sistani Mohammad Mehdi Naghibi , Kazemian Ali , Virtanen Jorma I
Published: February 2021

Background: This study aimed to determine the common scientific information sources used, information retrieval skills, and knowledge of evidence-based dentistry (EBD) among graduating dental students in two dental schools in Iran.Methods: In total, 179 final-year dental students from Mashhad University (71%) and Babol University (29%) participated in this anonymous survey in 2019. A valid self-administered questionnaire has been translated using forward-backward method to assess students' use of information sources for the past six months, their information retrieval skills, and knowledge of EBD. We used chi-square test, t-test, and one way ANOVA for statistical analysis.Results: Most commonly used information sources by the students in the university and at home were: personal lecture notes, fellow dental students, and Compact Dentistry References (CDR) books. Proportion of students with good knowledge of EBD was 53.6%. Dental students who sensed to possess weaker information retrieval skills revealed lower EBD scores (p=0.01). Students who used at least one evidence-based information source (Cochrane, PubMed/Medline, scientific journals’ websites) more frequently sensed to possess better information retrieval skills (p=0.02).Conclusions: Commonly used information sources by the dental students were not evidence-based. Those students with better information retrieval skill showed higher EBD knowledge score and used evidence-based information sources more frequently. Therefore, more efforts should be put to basic skill of information retrieval and EBD in Iranian dental curricula.