bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A scoping review of age-related health conditions among geriatric populations in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Naidoo Keshena , Wyk Jacqueline van
Published: January 2020

Background Globally people are living longer, resulting in an increased demand for primary care services to be responsive to geriatric health needs. There is however, little data on the nature and prevalence of age-related health conditions among people aged 60 years and older in the sub-Saharan African (SSA) region. This scoping review was undertaken to synthesise evidence on the scope and nature of age-related health needs among people aged 60 years and older in SSA, in order to inform reforms in health systems and health professions education. Methods We systematically searched five electronic databases for studies published prior to 30 June 2019. Using the keywords “Africa”, “older adult” or “geriatric”, and “health”, two independent reviewers used a set of eligibility criteria to extract and screen the abstracts and full-text publications. Particular focus was given to age-dependent disorders in people over 60 years such as dementia, disability and falls. Results Sixty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. The review revealed a noticeable absence of studies from the majority of Sub-Saharan African countries. Publications included for review represent twelve countries from this region. The morbidities reported on included dementia, functional impairment, mental health, falls, sarcopenia and nutritional disorders, sensory impairment, frailty and musculoskeletal disorders. Many of these conditions co-existed among older adults, resulting in impaired quality of life and disability. Modifiable factors for geriatric morbidity such as hypertension, depression, cognitive and sensory impairments were under-diagnosed and often untreated. Conclusions The body of empiric research and evidence on age-related health conditions in geriatric people in SSA remains small. The prevalence of reported age-related health conditions was comparable to that in high-income countries. However, chronic conditions in the elderly were underdiagnosed and undertreated, often resulting in disability. An urgent review of current health systems and health professions training is required, taking into consideration the findings of this study. Ethics and dissemination : This study did not include human participants. Data was sourced from published literature. Keywords: older adult - geriatric - aged - health - Africa
Organizational Culture and the Integrated Chronic Diseases Management Model Implementation Fidelity in South Africa
Authors: Lebina Limakatso , Kawonga Mary , Alaba Olufunke A. , Khamisa Natasha , Otwombe Kennedy , Oni Tolu
Published: December 2019

Organizational culture could facilitate or impede the implementation of new interventions or policies. The Integrated Chronic Disease Management (ICDM) model was introduced in clinics across South Africa to strengthen delivery of care and improve clinical outcomes for patients with chronic conditions, but the determinants of its implementation have not been assessed. This study assessed whether organizational culture influences the fidelity of implementation of the ICDM model at primary health care (PHC) clinics in South Africa. The abbreviated Denison organizational culture survey tool was administered to 90 staff members to assess three cultural traits: involvement, consistency and adaptability of six PHC clinics in two health districts in South Africa. Each cultural trait has three indices with five items, giving a total of 45 items. The items were scored on a Likert scale ranging from one (strongly disagree) to five (strongly agree), and mean scores were calculated for each item, cultural traits and indices. Descriptive statistics were used to describe participants and clinics, and Pearson correlation coefficient to asses association between fidelity and culture. Participants’ mean age was 38.8 (SD = 10.35) years, and 54.4% (49/90) were nurses. The overall mean score for the Denison organizational culture was 3.63 (SD = 0.58). The involvement (team orientation, empowerment and capability development) cultural trait had the highest (3.71; SD = 0.72) mean score, followed by adaptability (external focus) (3.62; SD = 0.56), and consistency (3.56; SD = 0.63). There was a weak, non-statistically significant negative correlation between fidelity level and organizational culture scores ( r = -0.117; p= 0.272). There were no statistically significant differences in cultural indices and cultural traits scores between the six PHC clinics. However, culture scores were significantly different by health districts. Leadership intervention is required to purposefully align the organizational culture of clinics with their mission.
Value of molecular typing in the assessment of bacterial translocation during coagulase-negative staphylococcal bacteremia in preterm infants
Authors: Leke Andre , Amar Géraldine , Dzon Bertin Elion , Morin Gilles , Goudjil Sabrina , Kongolo Guy , Biendo Maurice
Published: December 2019

Background One hundred fifty-seven preterm infants enrolled in the study were hospitalized between 2012-2014 at Amiens-Picardie University Hospital.Only 28 (17.8%) of these children who had experienced at least one episode of secondary Coagulase-negative Staphylococcal bacteremia with concomitant positive stool cultures were included in this study.The purpose of this study was to assess the rate of intestinal bacterial translocation associated with these infections. Methods Blood cultures and stool cultures were performed in the context of this study. All isolates of Staphylococcus spp were examined by MALDI-TOF MS. Antibiotic susceptibility and genotyping were also performed. Results Sixteen resistance patterns were identified from blood and stool based on antibiotic susceptibility testing. Ten of the Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus strains isolated from blood samples exhibited R pattern e (35.7%) and eleven of the Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus strains isolated from stool samples exhibited R pattern e (39.2%). Blood culture results were concordant with stool culture results in 53.5% of cases and discordant in 46.5% of cases.Fifteen isolates exhibited three ERIC-2 (A, B, C) and three RAPD-PCR (D, E, F) patterns. ERIC-2 patterns comprised A ( S. epidermidis isolates); B ( S. haemolyticus isolates) and C ( unidentified Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus isolates). RAPD patterns consisted of D ( unidentified Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus isolates), E ( S. haemolyticus isolates), and F ( S. epidermidis isolates). Conclusion Bacterial translocation from the intestinal tract was likely source of Coagulase-negative Staphylococcal bacteremia in hospitalized preterm infants.
Comparing total hip arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of displaced femoral neck fracture in the active elderly over 75 years old: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised control trials
Authors: Yijun Liu , Xiaokun Chen , Peixun Zhang , Baoguo Jiang
Published: December 2019

Background: Displaced femoral neck fractures (DFNF) are increasingly common in elderly patients. Repair of DFNF can be completed using two methods, hemiarthroplasty (HA) or total hip Arthroplasty (THA). However, there is much controversy regarding whether HA or THA is superior in active elderly patients over 75 years old. Methods: We conducted the literature search by searching PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Web of Science from the inception dates to June 1, 2019. Randomised controlled trials (RCT) were included according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Included studies were analysed according to Cochrane review methods. Results: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria totalling 631 participants (301 THA and 330 HA）. Four of the studies conducted were identical to a previous study but look at different follow up measures. The analysis of previously collected data revealed that the THA group had a lower erosion rate, higher total pain and function HHS, and higher EQ-5Dindex. The re-operation rate was significantly lower in the THA group after five years of follow up after adding the patients with painful symptoms to the group of patients revised. However, THA had longer operative time and a higher dislocation rate in the first three years compared to the HA procedure. Moreover, there was an insignificant difference in mortality rate, general complications, wound infection, duration of hospital stay, and VTE prevalence among the two procedures. Conclusions: THA may be a preferred management option for active elderly patients over 75 years old, after careful evaluation of patients’ general condition and tolerance of surgery. Strict management and follow up protocols should be followed to prevent dislocation within the first three years following a THA. Trial registration: This study was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42019139135). The date of registration is 16-06-2019. Keywords: displaced femoral neck fractures; total hip arthroplasty; hemiarthroplasty;
Identification and characterization of the Nep1-like protein UvNLP in rice false smut fungus Ustilaginoidea virens﻿
Authors: Wang Yufu , Qu Jinsong , Liu Yueran , Sun Geng , Wang Zuoqian , Yin Liangfen , Yin Weixiao , Luo Chaoxi
Published: January 2020

Background The necrosis- and ethylene-inducing peptide 1 (Nep1)-like proteins (NLPs) are a broadly distributed superfamily of protiens in plant-associated microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and oomycetes. NLPs are considered to be important virulence factors, and some have been well studied. However, the role of NLPs in Ustilaginoidea virens , the agent of rice false smut fungus, remains to be uncovered.Results A protein containing NLP-specific NPP1 domain was identified in U. virens and named UvNLP. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that UvNLP was a type 2 NLP, and real-time PCR revealed that UvNLP was highly expressed at 3 days post-inoculation. A yeast secretion assay demonstrated that UvNLP contained a functional signal peptide (SP). Furthermore, transient expression of UvNLP in Nicotiana benthamiana induced weak cell death, and replacement of the SP enhanced cell death. Real-time PCR indicated that UvNLP induced the expression of plant defence related genes.Conclusions We identified a secreted protein UvNLP in U. virens that was infection related and could induce plant cell death and defence responses. This study provided evidence that NLPs act as proteinaceous MAMPs, giving insight into the elucidation of the pathogenicity mechanism of U. virens. The UvNLP might be used as a potential plant defence inducer for disease control in practice.
Effects of EDTA on adsorption of Cd(II) and Pb(II) by low-permeability soil minerals and on their microscopic characteristics
Authors: You Xueji , Liu Shuguang , Dai Chaomeng , Zhong Guihui , Duan Yanping , Guo Yiping , Makhinov Aleksei Nikolavich , Júnior José Tavares Araruna , Tu Yaojen , Leong Kah Hon
Published: January 2020

Background Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) can serve as a washing agent in the remediation of low-permeability layers contaminated by heavy metals (HMs). Therefore, batch adsorption experiments, where quartz sands (SM1) and mineral mixtures (SM2) were used as low-permeability soil minerals (SMs), were implemented to explore the effects of different EDTA concentrations, pH and exogenous chemicals on the HM-SM-EDTA adsorption system. Changes in microscopic characterizes of SMs were determined by instrument analysis to investigate the mechanisms.Results As the EDTA concentration increased gradually, it gradually cut down the maximum Cd adsorption capacities of SM1 and SM2 from approximately 135 to 55 mg/kg and 2,660 to 1,453 mg/kg; and the maximum Pb adsorption capacities of SM1 and SM2 were reduced from 660 to 306 mg/kg and 19,677 to 19,262 mg/kg, respectively. When the mole ratio (MR = moles of HM ions / sum of moles of HM ions and EDTA) was closer to 0.5, the effect of EDTA was more effective; and Freundlich isotherm model fitted better to the data. It took 5 to 10 min for EDTA to begin taking its effect. EDTA worked well at pH below 7.0 and 4.0 for Cd and Pb, respectively. Low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs) affected the system mainly by bridging, complexation, adsorption site competition and reductive dissolution. Cu 2+ , Fe 2+ ions could greatly increase the Cd and Pb adsorption on SM2. There were feature changes in mineral particles including attachment of EDTA and microparticles, agglomeration, connection and smoother surfaces, making the specific surface area decrease from 16.73 to 12.59 m 2 /g.Conclusion All findings indicated that EDTA could effectively and economically reduce the HM adsorption capacity of SMs at the reasonable MR value, contact time and pH. The extent of the effects of LMWOAs and exogenous metal ions on the HM-SM-EDTA system depended on the synthesis of diverse effects and the selectivity of EDTA, respectively. EDTA reduced the HM adsorption capacity of SMs not only by complexation with HM ions, but also decreasing SSA and blocking active sites. Hence, the acquired insight from the presented study can help to promote the remediation of contaminated soil and groundwater.
Transcriptional response to kairomone exposure in Daphnia magna: A candidate gene approach
Authors: Telli Murat , Gordon Donna M. , Ünlü Ercan Selçuk
Published: January 2020

Background: Daphnia (Brachiopoda, Cladocera) is a well-studied model organism providing unparalleled opportunity to test epigenetic regulation of predator avoidance mechanisms in aquatic ecosystems. The discovery of regulatory functions for microRNA molecules and recently described miRNA profiles of Daphnia make it an ideal system to probe for posttranslational regulatory mechanisms mediated by kairomone released by predatory fish. However, despite a number of studies that focused on mRNA transcript level differences, no miRNA studies associated with kairomone exposure have been reported. Results: Exposing D. magna to fish kairomone from birth to the first reproduction was found to result in the differential expression of the four miRNAs tested: miR-7, miR-34, miR-317, and miR-375. Normalized transcript levels for each miRNA were found to vary across the exposure period with no clear conserved pattern of expression despite functional target analyses by GO, COG and KEGG indicating that predicted miRNA target genes are likely involved in related biological activities. Analysis of six mRNA transcripts (Hsp70, Hsp90, actin, AKT, GYS and IGFR), identified in previous studies as kairomone-mediated genes in Daphnia magna, were also carried out. Similar to that obtained for miRNAs, the mRNA transcript levels showed varying degrees of temporal regulation across the exposure time course with the two heat shock transcripts exhibiting elevated levels at early and late time points of kairomone exposure while the AKT, GYS, and IGFR transcripts had an general decrease in expression during the first 96 hours. Conclusions: Differential mRNA expression data supports the premise of an ecological trade-off between the cost of general biological processes and that of survival under long-term kairomone stress. Transcript levels for the four miRNAs tested were found to vary across developmental time with kairomone exposure which suggests that they may have a role in regulating morphological, behavioral or physiological responses by altering target gene expression. These studies lay the foundation for future work aimed at linking miRNAs and their target transcripts to changes in the signaling events that govern Daphnia response to kairomone specific stress.
Detection of soybean by real-time PCR in the samples subjected to deep technological processing
Authors: Kurbakov K. A. , Konorov E. A. , Zhulinkova V. N. , Minaev M. Yu.
Published: December 2019

During deep technological processing, DNA of food product components (specifically, in canned foods) is subjected to strong degradation, which makes the PCR-based food components identification more difficult. In this work, a primer-probe system is proposed, which was selected for the multi-copy region of long terminal repeat (LTR) of soybean (Glycine max). We confirmed its high sensitivity and specificity for soybean detection by real-time PCR. Using the selected system, we successfully analyzed the samples of meat-and-plant canned foods and other food products subjected to deep technological processing — tofu, preserved tofu, soy sauces, confectionary products containing soy lecithin. To compare with these samples, real-time PCR was carried out using the primer-probe system selected for the single-copy le1 gene. In terms of sensitivity, the use of the primer-probe system specific to the single-copy region was significantly inferior to the primer-probe system specific to the LTR region. The difference in the rate of degradation of these genomic DNA regions of Glycine max was found.
AS TEORIAS DA RELATIVIDADE NO ENSINO BÁSICO: UMA REVISÃO DE LITERATURA PARA TRAÇAR O PERFIL DOS TRABALHOS PUBLICADOS NO BRASIL ENTRE 2000 E 2018
Authors: Sampaio Wilton Souza , Oliveira Antônio Nunes de , Siqueira Marcos Cirineu Aguiar
Published: December 2019

Em 2019 comemora-se o centenário do eclipse mais famoso de todos os tempos, aquele cujas observações comprovaram uma importante previsão da Teoria da Relatividade Geral, o desvio da luz pela gravidade, cujas notícias em jornais de todo o mundo fizeram de seu autor, Albert Einstein (1879-1955), uma celebridade mundial. Apesar do grande impacto histórico, social, cultural e tecnológico das Teorias da Relatividade (Relatividade Restrita e Relatividade Geral), assim como o interesse manifestado pelos estudantes por assuntos a elas relacionados, a aprendizagem de tópicos de Relatividade ainda não faz parte do cotidiano escolar na formação básica de muitos estudantes. Neste trabalho, apresentamos uma revisão de literatura envolvendo os principais estudos publicados no Brasil na área de pesquisa em Ensino de Física Moderna e Contemporânea, entre os anos 2000 e 2018, com vistas a justificar a presença de conteúdos de Relatividade no Ensino Básico e elencar as principais propostas elaboradas com o intuito de viabilizar a sua inserção. A pesquisa constatou que a quantidade de trabalhos desenvolvidos na área é muito pequena quando comparada à de Física Clássica e, até o próprio material didático costumeiramente utilizado nas escolas ainda dedica pouco espaço a esses temas, contudo, nos últimos anos, os pesquisadores têm trabalhado esse assunto com crescente interesse.
A game-theoretical model for investment in inclusive recreation and wellness in Ukraine: the regional context
Authors: Petrushenko Mykola , Shevchenko Hanna , Burkynskyi Borys , Khumarova Nina
Published: December 2019

Investing in recreation and wellness in transitional economies requires updating an inclusive approach and adjusting national regional policies. The article aims to provide the game and theoretical decision-making modeling regarding the direction of capital investment in the development of inclusive wellness and recreation in the regions of Ukraine. Considering this, a comparative analysis of relevant indicators, above all, the self-assessment level of population health, has been conducted. The “game against nature” method allows formalizing the social and market contradictions of regional development of wellness and recreation. Using Ukraine as an example, the analysis of the payoff matrix by decision-making criteria such as the Bayes-Laplace’s criterion, the Savage’s criterion, the Wald’s criterion and the Hurwitz’s criteria, establishes the priority areas for investment: the maximum investment amount is for the middle-income regions and the minimum – for the high-income regions. However, there is a significant disparity in investment in health and recreation across regions. The situation requires a transformation of the target function: from providing social subsidies to maximizing person’s well-being in the physical, mental, social and financial aspects. In the absence of inclusive economic institutions, it is proposed to equalize the weight of the “investment in health” and “investment in recreation” factors and redistribute the total volume of capital investment in regions with relatively low solvency and population health indicators.
Instrumento para valorar el nivel de desarrollo de aulas digitales para la modalidad B-Learning en programas presenciales
Authors: Prado-Brand María del Pilar , Pérez-Parra Julio Ernesto , Gómez-Barco Viviana , Escobar-Serna Liliana Patricia , Villada-Petuma Jenny Alexandra
Published: December 2019

Bajo el enfoque de investigación empírico-analítica se diseñó un instrumento para valorar el nivel de desarrollo de aulas digitales para la modalidad B-Learning en programas presenciales de educación superior, y se sometió a pruebas de validez de apariencia, validez de constructo, consistencia interna, confiabilidad inter-evaluador (equivalencia) y confiabilidad intra-evaluador (estabilidad). Se incluyeron cien aulas digitales para esta modalidad. Participaron 24 expertos en educación en ambientes virtuales. El instrumento diseñado resultó válido y confiable. Fue necesario reestructurar y re-categorizar el instrumento en cuatro nuevos factores, así mismo se mejoró la redacción en términos de claridad, comprensión y lenguaje de dos de los dieciocho ítems que componen el instrumento.
Investigation of streamflow as a seasonal hydrological drought indicator for a tropical region
Authors: Fung Kit Fai , Huang Yuk Feng , Koo Chai Hoon
Published: December 2019

Understanding the operational definition of drought is important for alleviating the negative impacts of droughts. This study investigates the use of streamflows to indicate seasonal hydrological droughts in the Northern Region of Peninsular Malaysia. The seasonal 3-month Streamflow Drought Index (SDI-3) was used to analyse drought characteristics in 2003–2017. The occurrences of all three reported droughts were successfully identified with the SDI-3, with the identified events having a 3-month earlier onset with a 6-month longer duration; a 1-month delayed onset with a 5-month longer duration; and a 1-month delayed onset with a 1-month shorter duration, respectively compared to their actual onset and duration. Along with justifications such as the increase in evaporation and evapotranspiration due to temperature increase, losses for groundwater replenishment and human factors, the SDI-3 was concluded to be suitable for hydrological drought monitoring. Drought characteristics were spatially interpolated using the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) method, which was cross-validated for applicability with average root mean squared error (RMSE) and R equal to 0.630 and 0.586, respectively. It was found that most of the areas are more prone to short-term droughts with mean severity up to the mild category, except for the central zone which showed more severe droughts, albeit being less likely to occur.
Flavonoids and Platelet-Derived Thrombotic Disorders
Authors: Lopez Jose J. , El Haouari Mohammed , Jardin Isaac , Alonso Nieves , Regodon Sergio , Diez-Bello Raquel , Redondo Pedro C. , Rosado Juan A.
Published: January 2020

:

Thrombotic disorders are characterized by an increase in the probability of the formation of unnecessary thrombi that might be due to the activation of the coagulation cascade or the circulating platelets. Platelets or thrombocytes play an essential role in hemostasis but abnormal platelet function leads to the development of a number of cardiovascular complications, including thrombotic disorders. Under pathological conditions, platelets are associated with the development of different thrombotic disorders, including atherosclerosis, arterial thrombosis and stroke, deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism; therefore, platelets are the target of a number of anti-thrombotic strategies. Flavonoids, a large group of polyphenols ubiquitously expressed in fruits and vegetables that have attracted considerable attention because of their benefits in human health, including the reduction of the risk of cardiovascular disease. Flavonoids have been reported to reduce platelet activity by attenuating agonist-induced GPIIb/IIIa receptor activation, mobilization of intracellular free Ca2+, granule exocytosis, as well as activation of different signaling molecules such as mitogen- activated protein kinases or phospholipases. This review summarizes the current studies concerning the modulation of platelet activation by flavonoids, giving especial attention to those events associated to thrombotic disorders.
MiR-143HG Gene Polymorphisms as Risk Factors for Gastric Cancer in Chinese Han Population
Authors: Liu Jianfeng , Li Haiyue , Liu Yuanwei , Sun Yao , Wu Jiamin , Xiong Zichao , Li Bin , Jin Tianbo
Published: December 2019

Background:

MicroRNA (miRNA) is a pivotal regulator of the occurrence and
development of various cancers. And gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common
and deadly cancers in the world. The aim of this study is to explore whether the
microRNA-143 host gene (miR-143HG) polymorphisms are correlated with the risk of
GC.

Methods:

5 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped among 506
patients and 500 healthy controls in Han Chinese population. Multiple genetic models,
stratification analysis and haplotype analysis were used to evaluate the association
between miR-143HG polymorphisms and GC risk by calculating odds ratios (ORs), 95%
confidence intervals (CIs).

Results:

Our results indicated that rs11168100 was associated with decreased risk of
GC under the Codominant model (OR = 0.67, 95%CI = 0.52-0.88, p = 0.003), and under
the Dominant model (OR = 0.72, 95%CI = 0.56-0.92, p = 0.009). Rs353300 was
associated with increased risk of GC under the Recessive model (OR = 1.41, 95%CI =
1.06-1.87, p = 0.017). Further, rs11168100 and rs353300 were correlated with the
susceptibility of GC (age > 60 years), and three SNPs (rs12654195, rs353303, and
rs353300) were related with the risk of GC (age ≤ 60 years). In addition, two SNPs
(rs12654195 and rs11168100) were found to be associated with decrease in the
susceptibility of GC in the female subgroup. Rs353300 represented two-sided roles in
the occurrence and development of GC in female. Finally, rs3533003 was associated
with decreased risk of GC in stratified analysis of lymph node metastasis.

Conclusion:

For the first time, our results provide some evidence on the polymorphisms
of miR-143HG associated with GC risk in the Chinese Han population.
Cornel Iridoid Glycoside Suppresses Tau Hyperphosphorylation and Aggregation in a Mouse Model of Tauopathy through Increasing Activity of PP2A
Authors: Ma Denglei , Luo Yi , Huang Rui , Zhao Zirun , Wang Qi , Li Lin , Zhang Lan
Published: January 2020

Background:

rTg4510 mice are transgenic mice expressing P301L mutant tau and have been developed as an animal model of tauopathy including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Cornel Iridoid Glycoside (CIG) is an active ingredient extracted from Cornus officinalis, a traditional Chinese herb. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of CIG on tau pathology and underlying mechanisms using rTg4510 mice.

Methods:

The cognitive functions were detected by Morris water maze and objective recognition tests. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were conducted to measure the levels of phosphorylated tau and related proteins. Serine/threonine phosphatase assay was applied to detect the activity of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A).

Results:

Intragastric administration of CIG for 3 months improved learning and memory abilities, prevented neuronal and synapse loss, halted brain atrophy, elevated levels of synaptic proteins, protected cytoskeleton, reduced tau hyperphosphorylation and aggregation in the brain of rTg4510 mice. In the mechanism studies, CIG increased the activity of PP2A, elevated the methylation of PP2A catalytic C (PP2Ac) at leucine 309, decreased the phosphorylation of PP2Ac at tyrosine 307, and increased protein expression of leucine carboxyl methyltransferase 1 (LCMT-1), protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), and protein phosphatase 2A phosphatase activator (PTPA) in the brain of rTg4510 mice.

Conclusion:

CIG might have the potential to treat tauopathy such as AD via activating PP2A.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity Study of 2,4,6-triaryl Pyrimidine Derivatives
Authors: Bule Mohammed Hussen , Esfandyari Roghaieh , Tafesse Tadesse Bekele , Amini Mohsen , Faramarzi Mohammad Ali , Abdollahi Mohammad
Published: January 2020

Background:

α-Glucosidase inhibitors hinder the carbohydrate digestion and play an
important role in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. α-glucosidase inhibitors available on the market
are acarbose, miglitol, and voglibose. However, the use of acarbose is diminishing due to related
side effects like diarrhea, bloating and abdominal distension.

Objectives:

This study aimed to synthesize 2,4,6-triaryl pyrimidines derivatives, screen their α-
glucosidase inhibitory activity, perform kinetic and molecular docking studies.

Methods:

A series of 2,4,6-triaryl pyrimidine derivatives were synthesized and their α-glucosidase
inhibitory activity was screened in vitro. Pyrimidine derivatives 4a-m were synthesized via a twostep
reaction with a yield between 49 and 93%. The structure of the synthesized compounds was
confirmed by different spectroscopic techniques (IR, NMR and MS). The in vitro α-glucosidase
inhibition activities of the synthesized compounds 4a-m was also evaluated against Saccharomyces
cerevisiae α-glucosidase.

Results and Discussion:

The majority of synthesized compounds had α-glucosidase inhibitory
activity. Particularly compounds 4b and 4g were the most active compounds with an IC50 value of
125.2± 7.2 and 139.8 ± 8.1 μM respectively. The kinetic study performed for the most active
compound 4b revealed that the compound was a competitive inhibitor of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
α-glucosidase with Ki of 122 μM. The molecular docking study also revealed that the two
compounds have important binding interactions with the enzyme active site.

Conclusion:

2,4,6-triarylpyrimidine derivative 4a-m were synthesized and screened for α-
glucosidase inhibitory activity. Most of the synthesized compounds possess α-glucosidase inhibitory
activity, and compound 4b demonstrated the most significant inhibitory action as compared to
acarbose.
Phytotherapy of Hypertension: An Updated Overview
Authors: Ajebli Mohammed , Eddouks Mohamed
Published: December 2019

Background:

Cardiovascular disorders are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the globe. Hypertension is the main risk factor that contributes to the development of many diseases. The use of herbal therapies, medicinal plants and their derivatives for remedying and managing hypertension is well recognized and popular among a wide part of the world population.

Methods:

The aim of the current review was to collect, treat, and critically analyze the published research relative to experimental and clinical investigations which have studied the blood pressure lowering abilities of medicinal plant derivatives in the last decade. This review was organized into three principal axes; the first axis was attributed to the in vivo and in vitro experimental studies; the second treated the clinical trials; while, the last one is devoted to analyze the mechanisms of action underlying the therapeutic antihypertensive effectiveness of phytochemicals.

Results:

Different types of extracts and isolated molecules obtained from a large variety of species demonstrated their efficiency in improving raise of blood pressure either experimentally or clinically. Medicinal species such as garlic (Allium sativum), celery (Apium graveolens), Black Cumin (Nigella sativa) and Ginseng (Panax) are among the most common and therapeutically used plant derivatives for controlling hypertension while Asteraceae, Apiaceae and Rosaceae are among the botanical families which were frequently studied in the last decade. Whereas, isolated compounds such as allicin and apigenin have received more interest in this field. Recent evidence from clinical trials suggests that a wide variety of herbal preparations and plant extracts or natural isolated compounds have a favorable therapeutic impact on blood flow. Interestingly, phytochemicals can either act directly on blood vessels via a vasorelaxant effect involving a variety of signaling cascades or indirectly through inhibiting or stimulating a diversity of systems such as angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), renin angiotensin system (RAS) or the diuretic activity. Hence, based on the findings of the present review medicinal plant derivatives could be used as preventive and curative agents in the case of cardiovascular disorders, particularly hypertension and could play a promoting function for the discovery of new antihypertensive agents.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the analysis of the published data shows that a great effort remains to be done to investigate the medicinal plants cited as antihypertensive through published ethnopharmacological surveys. The analysis of the literature in this field shows the lack of standardization at the level of experimental study methods as well as the need to study purified molecules. Moreover the mechanistic studies when they exist remain in the whole partial. On the other hand few advanced clinical studies have been conducted. Finally the determination of the efficacy/safety ratio remains absent in almost all studies.
Antimicrobial Activities of Medicinal Plants Containing Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Dikpınar Tuğçe , Süzgeç-Selçuk Sevda
Published: December 2019

Background:

Medicinal plants have been used to treat diseases for centuries. They are
important sources in terms of their pharmacological effects and also have many microbial agents.
Recently, the development of drug resistance has begun to spread in human pathogens against used
antibiotics and this has led to new research for novel antimicrobial substances from natural products
containing plants.

Objective:

The purpose of this review is to determine the antimicrobial activity of pure phenolic
compounds isolated from medicinal plants, to evaluate how molecular structures of these compounds
affect the activity, and to provide to the readers a source for future studies on natural antimicrobial
agents.

Methods:

Relevant information was gathered from scientific engines and databases (Google Scholar,
Web of Science, Scifinder, Science Direct, Scopus, Wiley Online Library, PubMed, Taylor & Francis
online) using different keywords. Antimicrobial activity research was selected especially on pure
phenolic compounds.

Results:

Numerous phenolic compounds were isolated from plants/plant extracts and were shown to
prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi and their Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) and inhibition
zone values were given in detail.

Conclusion:

This review revealed that phenolic compounds found in medicinal plants have different
antimicrobial activity according to their changes in the molecular structure.
Segmentation of Characters in a Handwritten Kannada Document
Authors: K. Asha , H.K. Krishnappa
Published: December 2019

Objective:

The main purpose of the proposed research work is to perform the segmentation
of characters from the handwritten Kannada document. The reason behind segmentation is
to support the implementation of handwriting recognition system for Kannada language.

Methodology:

To perform segmentation of characters, input document has to go through gray
scale conversion, denoising, contrast normalization and binarization process.

Result:

Documents collected from ICDAR-2013 and ICDAR-2015 were considered for experiment
and obtained 100% accuracy for line segmentation and 96% accuracy for character segmentation.

Conclusion:

To further improve the efficiency with respect to accuracy of character segmentation,
other pre-processing steps like skew detection and correction shall be considered.
Effect of Marble Dust and Basalt Fiber on the Energy Absorbance of Concrete Measured through Impact Loading Method
Authors: Krishna A. Siva , Gobinath Ravindran , Awoyera Paul O.
Published: December 2019

Background:

The use of limestone mac marble powder in concrete was engaged at the second part of the 1990 years to reduce the cost of cement and concrete manufacturing as well as its benefits on cement-based materials.

Objective:

Aim of this study is to examine the effect of marble dust and basalt fibers on the impact load resistance of concrete.

Methods:

Marble powder at 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3% of cement weight was used as an admixture for the concrete mixes. Basalt fiber and polypropylene fibers were randomly added to fresh concrete mix at volume ratios of 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% by weight of cement. Slabs were cast and cured in water for 56 days. The resistance of the slabs to impact loading (absorption energy) was determined using an impact loading machine having hammer weight of 14.6kg and falling at a height of 38cm. Results: The study showed that basalt fiber reinforced slabs developed higher absorbance energy than the polypropylene reinforced samples.

Conclusions:

By this result, there is an indication that both compactness and strong fiber link of basalt reinforced slabs provide more rigidity to the slabs.
An Efficient Congestion Avoiding Approach for Optimal Path Finding for Emergency Vehicle
Authors: Rajak Biru , Mallick Shrabani , Kushwaha Dharmender S.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Emergency vehicles required a quick clearance so as to reach the destination
with minimum delay and the human life could be saved. Emergency vehicle required a dedicated
path for clearance. The dedicated path creates a chaos by blocking the entire route for others vehicles
and it is not always possible to create a dedicated path. So there is an imperative need for a
smart road navigation system which adapts to the traffic congestion in real-time velocity of vehicle,
count of vehicle, number of lanes and distance from source to destination.

Objective:

The objective of this paper is to find an optimal route for providing a least congested optimal
route for emergency vehicle with least delay considering various issues such as congestion,
numbers of vehicles, average traffic flow on the roads and width of the lane between source and
destination.

Proposed approach:

Real-time traffic data like number of vehicles, velocity of the vehicles, and the width of
the road and distance of the route are used to determine the congestion factor on all possible route.
Congestion factor is used for finding the shortest route to requesting emergency vehicle.

Result:

Experimental results establish that the travel time of a vehicle is reduced by approximately
26%, when the vehicle uses the optimized route. This is beneficial for any emergency vehicle as the
optimal path is provided on a real-time basis.

Conclusion:

This research work proposes an analytical approach that provides the least congested
optimal route on-demand based on real-time traffic.
Evidências de validade para a Escala de Vitimização entre Alunos (EVA)
Authors: Pereira Ana Carina Stelko , Williams Lúcia Cavalcanti de Albuquerque , Ambiel Rodolfo Augusto Matteo , Cortez Pedro Afonso
Published: January 2020

Este estudo avalia a Escala de Vitimização entre Alunos (EVA) quanto à validade da sua estrutura interna, consistência interna, e na relação com outra variável (stress). Para tal, foram analisadas respostas à EVA de 1.484 alunos de escolas públicas do 6.o ao 9.o ano do Ensino Básico provenientes de seis cidades de quatro estados do Brasil. Notou-se que a escala é formada por dois fatores: vitimização presencial e vitimização virtual, os quais conjuntamente explicam cerca de 50% da variância, obtendo um índice de consistência interna de 0,84 e 0,77 para os fatores. Adicionalmente, na cidade de Fortaleza (N=100) aplicou-se a EVA duas vezes num intervalo de 30 dias, obtendo-se um índice de precisão para o valor global de 0,64, e aplicou-se a Escala de Stress Infantil (ESI), tendo-se percebido correlações positivas significativas superiores a 0,65 entre os valores da EVA e da ESI. Assim, a EVA é uma alternativa promissora.
Gestão de bacias hidrográficas na perspectiva espacial e socioambiental
Authors: Lopes Elfany Reis do Nascimento , De Souza José Carlos , Albuquerque Filho José Luiz , Lourenço Roberto Wagner
Published: December 2019

O estudo objetivou subsidiar metodologicamente a análise socioambiental espacial de bacias hidrográficas, a partir do uso de dados secundários sociais, econômicos e ambientais na bacia hidrográfica do rio Una, Ibiúna, São Paulo. Realizou-se a triagem de dados secundários, analisados por meio da correlação de Pearson, da regressão linear múltipla e do indicador de qualidade socioambiental espacializado. Houve forte correlação entre as características econômicas dos domicílios e de seus ocupantes com o saneamento ambiental. O índice de qualidade revelou melhores condições socioambientais na zona urbana, contribuindo para a identificação de áreas com necessidade de intervenção que incluem a área rural, por trata-se de locais com relevantes interesses sociais, econômicos e de conservação dos recursos hidricos.
Metodología para la asimilación económica de la minería en Zacatecas, México
Authors: Reyes Pérez Oscar , Loredo Sanchéz Minerva Abigail , Castañeda Camacho Xochizeltzin , Aguilar Robledo Miguel
Published: December 2019

La teoría de la asimilación económica del territorio se introdujo en México a finales de los ochenta del siglo XX, a partir de entonces son pocas las innovaciones metodológicas que se han propuesto. Este documento proporciona una guía para el análisis de la actividad económica preponderante de un territorio; para ello se eligió al estado de Zacatecas, donde la minería ha sido una de las actividades rectoras de su economía. Por tal razón, fue necesario modificar la selección de variables, elaborar nuevos indicadores y ajustar los criterios en la conformación de nubes tipológicas necesarias para la configuración cartográfica.
Analisis de marketing en las tiendas y superetes de la ciudad de San Juan de Pasto
Authors: Arteaga Flórez Andrea Lorena , De La Rosa Salazar Diego Marcel
Published: December 2019

El presente artículo tiene como propósito analizar los aspectos relacionados con el marketing de las tiendas y superetes de la ciudad de San Juan de Pasto, es así que, este escrito es el resultado de una investigación cuantitativa, pretendiendo dar una explicación de una realidad social con un tipo de estudio descriptivo y un método deductivo, a través de herramientas de recolección de información documental y una encuesta a los tenderos de los diferentes barrios de la ciudad en mención.

 

Lo anterior en función de la importancia que tienen las tiendas y superetes en los consumidores de los diferentes barrios de la ciudad, los cuales, a pesar de la incursión de las grandes superficies y otro tipo de negocios, aun gozan de gran prestigio no solamente por el papel que ejercen dentro del canal, sino también porque se constituyen en fuente de sustento para una infinidad de familias.

 

Finalmente, se exponen acciones de marketing, las cuales apuntar a mejorar la competitividad de tiendas y superetes en función de sus objetivos y además esta información se constituye para el tendero en un insumo de información de aquellas variables que pueden contribuir a generar mayores ingresos en sus negocios.
Tropa: debate de elites
Authors: Hamilton Paulo
Published: January 2020

Neste artigo, o ator Paulo Hamilton, que interpreta o soldado Paulo no filme Tropa de elite, defende o trabalho de José Padilha das acusações de comprometimento com um discurso ideológico fascista. Sua estratégia consiste em desvincular o ponto de vista sob o qual o filme é narrado – aquele do Capitão Nascimento – daquele que a obra como um todo pretenderia comunicar. Mais ainda, argumenta ele, regimes totalitários procuram combater posturas de questionamento. A polêmica que Tropa fomentou seria um indício adicional contra a sua associação ao fascismo.
O doce encanto da pintura e da escultura no Elogio de Helena de Górgias de Leontinos
Authors: Dinucci Aldo
Published: January 2020

Górgias de Leontinos, no Elogio de Helena, enfatiza o caráter sedutor das palavras em relação às almas humanas. A sedução das palavras, porém, não é senão um caso especial da sedução das coisas sensíveis e divinas sobre os homens, sedução que muitas vezes constrange e afoga o homem, que se vê imerso num mundo trágico onde os únicos objetos que ele pode contemplar com doçura e liberdade e sem o perigo de perder-se são as pinturas e as esculturas.
Implementasi Model Problem Based Learning (PBL) yang Didukung Agen Pedagogi Terhadap Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) dalam Pembelajaran Zoologi Invertebrata
Authors: Madang Kodri , Tibrani Mgs. Muhammad , Santoso Lucia Maria
Published: December 2019

This study aims to determine the effect of Problem Based Learning  supported by pedagogical agents (PBL-PA) on Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) of preservice teachers in Invertebrate Zoology Learning. This study uses a quantitative approach applied to 77 preservice teacher participating in the Invertebrate Zoology lecture in Biology Education, FKIP, Universitas Sriwijaya in Academic Year 2018/2019. The method used is Quasi Experimental with Nonequivalent Control Group Design. Determination of the sample through Simple Random Sampling so that PBL-AP (26 people), PBL (26 people), and traditional classes (25 people). HOTS ability is measured through pretest and posttest with 25 multiple choice questions that have been tested for validity and reliability. Hypothesis testing using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) uses the SPSS 23 program. The results of the study indicate that the PBL-PA Methos has a significant effectiveness on the HOTS ability of preservice teacher. Furthermore, the PBL-PA is better than the PBL and traditional method in improving HOTS ability of preservice teacher. The PBL-PA Mothod can increase learning motivation and make students confident in formulating problems well in the early syntax of PBL.

 

Keywords:  Pedagogical Agents , Higher Order Thinking Skills, Problem Based Learning, Invertebrate Zoology

Abstrak Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh model Problem Based Learning  yang didukung agen pedagogi (PBL-AP) terhadap Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) mahasiswa calon guru dalam Pembelajaran Zoologi Invertebrta. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif  yang diterapkan terhadap 77 mahasiswa calon guru peserta Perkuliahan Zoologi Invertebrata di Prodi Pendidikan Biologi, FKIP, Unsri pada Tahun Akademik 2018/2019. Metode yang digunakan adalah Quasi Experimental dengan desain Nonequivalent Control Group Design. Penentuan sampel dengan cara Simple Random Sampling sehingga diperoleh kelas PBL didukung agen pedagogi (26 orang), kelas PBL (26 orang), dan kelas tradisional (25 orang). Kemampuan HOTS diukur melalui pre-test dan post-test dengan instrumen 25 soal pilihan ganda yang telah teruji validitas dan reliabilitanya. Uji hipotesis menggunakan Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) menggunakan program SPSS 23. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Model PBL-AP memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap kemampuan HOTS mahasiswa calon guru. Selanjutnya, model PBL-AP lebih baik dari pada model PBL dan tradisional dalam meningkatkan kemampuan HOTS mahasiswa calon guru. Model PBL-AP dapat meningkatkan motivasi  belajar dan membuat peserta didik percaya diri dalam merumuskan permasalahan dengan baik pada tahap awal sintaks PBL.

Kata kunci: Agen Pedagogi, Problem Based Learning, Higher Order Thinking Skills, Zoologi Invertebrata