bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration towards attitude of students in elementary school teacher education in mathematics learning
Authors: Trisniawati  , Titi Muanifah Mahmudah , Rhosyida Nelly , Adi Widodo Sri , Ardiyaningrum Martalia
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this paper is to know attitude of students of elementary school teacher education towards mathematics learning. The method used in this study is a qualitative approach. The sample is taken using cluster random sampling from second and fourth semester students of elementary school teacher education. Instrument used in this research is questionnaire. The results of the research show that the attitude of elementary school teacher education student at Universitas Sarjanawiyata Tamansiswa towards learning mathematics in the very high category.
Correlation of self-efficacy and mathematical critical thinking skills based on student’s cognitive stage
Authors: Rohaeti E E , Hindun S , Fitriani N
Published: October 2019

Self-efficacy (SE) and critical mathematical thinking skills (MCTS) have been studied extensively. But study about the correlation of both based on student’s cognitive stages (SCS) is rarely done. This study involved 25 students from seventh grade determined by purposive sampling technique in one of the schools in Cimahi. The instrument used the Longeot test, Test of Logical Thinking (TOLT), an Essay MCTS, and a scale of SE. Data analysis performed: percentage calculation, testing of mean difference, and correlations testing at a significance level of 5%. Based on the results and discussion it was concluded that, in general, the SCS classification of seventh grade students based on the Longeot Test and TOLT scores was obtained 24% of students were in the concrete stage, 68% of students were in the transition stage, and 8% of students were in the formal stage. This means that most seventh grade students are in the transition stage. There are differences in MCTS based on SCS in a very weak category. There is no difference in SE based on SCS with enough categories. The relations of SE and MCTS based on SCS is not significant in the low category.
Enhance Learning Independence and Self Ability of Exceptional Children Through Developing Learning Media VBA for Excel Games
Authors: Bernard Martin , Sunaryo Arif , Tusdia Heni , Hendriani Ely , Suhayi Ayi , Nurhidayah  , Parida Mida , Fauzi Ahmad , Rolina Rosalina
Published: October 2019

The aim of this research is to enhance learning independence and self ability of exceptional children. The implementation of learning was assited by the application of VBA for excel games in mathematical learning. The formulation of the problem in this research are whether 1) developing media assisted VBA for excel games can enhance learning independence and self ability of exceptional children? 2) using open ended approach? 3) Did exceptional children have a positive respons in this learning? The approach used in this research is ADDIE which consists of five stage. Population of this study was in group which amounted to 17 samples of exceptional children. The instruments of research are cognitive test and observation. Based on the results of the research, there was an increase in learning independence and self ability of exceptional children through VBA-assisted mathematical learning media for excel games. While the implemention of learning media applied in exceptional children was success. Children showed bravery, active, enthusiastic, responsive, and excited when the process of learning took place.
Mathematical connection ability: teacher’s perception and experience in learning
Authors: Siregar Rosliana , Daut Siagian Muhammad
Published: October 2019

In learning mathematics mathematical connections ability is one of the mathematical ability that must be possessed by students. The strong connection between concepts in mathematics implies that mathematical connections ability also contains other mathematical aspects or vice versa. Viewing mathematics as a whole is very important in learning and thinking about connections between topics in mathematics. This study uses qualitative research methods with phenomenology research design types. The participants in this study were 8 middle school mathematics teachers who taught at different schools. This study uses a short interview form which consists of five open questions to determine the teacher’s understanding of mathematical connection ability. It was found that middle school math teachers had sufficient comprehensive and adequate knowledge of their views on mathematical connection ability, moreover there were also respondents who could not provide examples of mathematical problems that contained the characteristics of mathematical connection ability even though they were able to define what mathematical connection is. Likewise, the development of teachers in mathematical connection ability in learning is still limited to the scope of the relationship of mathematics with mathematics itself and mathematics with everyday life.
Junior High School Students’ Mathematical Reasoning Ability Analysis in Systems of Linear Equations and Applications
Authors: Fisher D , Kusumah Y S , Dahlan J A
Published: October 2019

This study aims to determine students’ mathematical reasoning abilities in systems of linear equations and applications. This research was conducted in the odd semester of the 2018/2019 academic year. The population in this study were all students of class VIII in one of the Junior High Schools in Bandung with a total sample of 32 students. The research instrument used was in the form of a test of mathematical reasoning. The research method used is qualitative research design. Data were analyzed using data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. Based on the results of the study it can be concluded that the mathematical reasoning ability of junior high school students in SPLDV material is still low.
Pre-Service Mathematics Teachers Divisibility Construction
Authors: Fitrianti Y , Suryadi D , Kusnandi
Published: October 2019

Divisibility concept is fundamental to the development of another concept in elementary number theory. A study of the construction of the divisibility advanced mathematics teacher was done to provide empirical evidence of early genetic decomposition design. Through the question, we designed in the form of test sheets and interview, we explorer the construction of 3 students. The result of this qualitative study illustrated that construction of the divisibility concept on the problem solving of number theory represented in algebra.
The Cognitive Load of Learners in the Learning Process of the Rotating Object Volume
Authors: Wawan  , Ningsih E F , Widodo S A , Leonard  , Sary R M , Retnowati E
Published: October 2019

This research is aimed to explore the cognitive load of learners in the learning process of rotating object volume as well as to provide alternative solutions in managing the intrinsic cognitive load, reducing the extraneous cognitive load as well as improving the germane cognitive load. This research was conducted in Muhammadiyah Purworejo Senior High School with the 3 (three) learners from XII grade as the subjects. The purposive sampling technique was used to determine the research subject. The data collecting method used were test and interview. The data were analyzed by using a qualitative descriptive analysis. This research has provided the results which show that the occurrence of intrinsic cognitive load in the learning process of a rotating object volume is caused by the amount of interactivity elements that have to be studied and the complexity of material learned. The interacting elements are Arithmetic, Algebra, the intersection between two curves, the concept and rule of integration, while the elements of material complexity are the difficulties in imagining the rotating object, and conducting the algebra operation. The occurrence of extraneous cognitive load in the learning process of rotating object volume is caused by the way of teacher delivering the meaningless materials as well as the absence of geometric illustration from the teaching performed by teacher. The next discussion is regarding the germane cognitive load in the learning process of rotating object volume, it is known that this cognitive load is very low. This condition is caused by the learning process in class that tends to be more conventional as well as the minimum activities of learners in studying the materials.
Development of Open-Ended Based Mathematics Problem to Measure High-Level Thinking Ability
Authors: Zulfah  , Astuti  , Insani S U , Zulhendri  , Akbar P
Published: October 2019

The study aims to produce Open-Ended based mathematics problems that can be used to measure the high-level thinking abilities of seventh-grade junior high schools’ students. The study is developmental research using Plomp model, consisting of the preliminary stage, the prototyping stage, and the assessment phase. The subject was seventh-grade students of junior high school. The teaching material used was about numbers learned at seventh-grade junior high school. Based on the results of the development, it was obtained 15 open-ended based problems in which 12 of them possibly have various answers, and 3 have various possibilities ways of answering. The problems developed are valid with the criteria of the developed problem based on content, the problems have diverse answers or various ways to answer, problems can measure high-level thinking skills; analyzing, evaluating, and creating, and the content of the material is fit to the material about numbers. The problems use clear construct images, clear instructions for working on, adapted Standard Indonesian Spelling System or EYD language, and appropriate sentences to seventh-grade knowledge level, disuse of misinterpreted expressions as well. Related to practicality, it is obtained that students and teachers can use the problem and do it well. The teacher can use it to evaluate students’ high-order thinking skills.
Contextual Features of Geometrical Problems in Indonesian Mathematics Textbooks
Authors: Purnomo Y W , Mastura F S , Perbowo K S
Published: October 2019

This study aims to analyze series of Indonesia mathematics textbooks by observing whole tasks and its association with contextual features in geometry topic presented in the textbook. The study was carried out as there are only few studies conducted research on analysis of a textbook for geometry topic. A research method used in the study was textbook research employed in this study to achieve the purpose. The analysis was performed for 9 textbooks from 3 different well-known publishers (Kemendikbud, Erlangga and Yudhistira). Results show that it is more than 25% in average of whole pages in the textbook present geometry topic and there are more than 80% of geometric questions in the textbook belong to intra-mathematical context that is question not related to the real life. Details and further discussion will be elaborated in this paper.
The use of transformative learning in developing students’ self-efficacy
Authors: Rosita Dewi Nur Iyan , Firmansyah Dani
Published: October 2019

The contents from process of learning are individuals changing in cognitive aspect, behaviour, ability and habitual as a product and interaction with its domain. Learning is the process to construct our knowledge by experience transformation. This research objective to analyse the students’ self-efficacy can be increased by transformative learning model. The method in this research is mix method design and the kind of this method is explanatory sequential method. The populations of this research are all of the 2nd grader mathematics education bachelor degree students in Universitas Singaperbangsa Karawang and the samples are 30 students were randomly selected. This research was done in researcher’s own class in order that the subjectivity of data processing and conclusion are maintained.. Data collection methods used is the questionnaire method, learning process observation sheet, documentation, and interview. Data analyse technique used t-test and likert scale. It can be concluded that reviewed based on the overall student and the level of student ability, the students who are given the model of transformative learning have the self-efficacy in carrying out certain tasks or actions needed to achieve desired results better and increased previous. It can be said that the Transformative Learning model can improve students’ self-efficacy
Pedagogical Content Knowledge Pre-Service Mathematics Teacher
Authors: Kadarisma G , Senjayawati E , Amelia R
Published: October 2019

Content knowledge and pedagogical knowledge are two most important aspects of teaching. Therefore, this research is motivated by the importance of pedagogical content knowledge for pre-service teacher students. The purpose of this study is to analyze PCK that is owned by pre-service teachers when teaching quadrilateral material. The method of this study is a qualitative carried out to obtain an in-depth picture of the pre-service teacher’s PCK in the process of learning activities. The sample of this study is taken by 3 students of mathematics teacher candidates who conducting field practice in a junior high school. The instruments of this study are in the form of questionnaires and observation sheets to analyze PCK of teacher candidates, pre-learning questionnaires are used to analyze pre-service teachers in making learning plans as many as 6 indicators, and questionnaires in-learning are used to analyze PCK of teacher candidates in delivering material, mastering concepts and choosing methods in line with 20 Indicators. Based on the data analysis, it was found that the PCK of pre-service teacher students in the quadrilateral material belonged to the classification good enough in developing strategies, making lesson plans, in the learning process and mastery of concepts.
Improving mathematics self-concept through comprehensive mathematics instruction model
Authors: Delima N , Kusumah Y S , Fatimah S
Published: October 2019

The learning process of mathematics in high school now shows that it has not been able to improve students’ mathematics self-concepts. This is indicated by the fact that high school mathematics self-concept students are still relatively low. Therefore, there needs to be an effort to improve these variables, considering that these variables are very important in supporting students’ academic success, especially in mathematics. This study discusses how the implementation of the CMI model in mathematics learning can improve high school mathematics self-concept. This research is a quasi-experimental study. Samples were taken purposively from the population of high school students in Subang, West Java, Indonesia. The instruments used in the study consisted of mathematics self-concept questionnaire and observation sheets. The CMI model is a learning model that accommodates three stages namely develop, solidify and practice. CMI provides many opportunities for students to play an active role in asking questions, explaining the answers to mathematical questions they get, and transferring the knowledge they have with their classmates. The activity will indirectly build the confidence side of students in doing mathematics. The results of the study indicate that the CMI model can improve high school mathematics self-concept.
Developing PISA-Like Mathematics Problems Using Indonesian Food Context
Authors: Sulistiani L , Zulkardi
Published: October 2019

This study aims to generate the valid and practical PISA-like mathematics problems on uncertainty and data using Indonesian food context. It also aims to see the potential effects of the problems towards the high school students’ mathematical ability. This study used a design research methodology with the type of development study which was divided into two stages, namely preliminary stage and formative evaluation stage. This study produced valid and practical PISA-like mathematics problems on uncertainty and data content which have a potential effect on the senior high school students’ mathematical literacy ability. The validity was determined based on the expert review, while the practicality was determined based on one-to-one and small group assessment. Based on the students answer, it was found that the problems had potential effects that arouse the ability, communication, reasoning and argument, representation and devising strategies for problem-solving.
LINTAS-BD 1.2: Modeling and simulation traffic of Bandung City using SimEvents MATLAB
Authors: Harahap E , Badruzzaman F H , Permanasari Y , Fajar M Y , Kudus A
Published: October 2019

Traffic is a very vital medium for various means of land transportation that connects various locations and even large cities. The smooth traffic of a city is one of the performance parameters of the local government. Furthermore, the smooth traffic determines the great development of economic, social, educational and technology. As the increasing level of civilization development and also the population, traffic becomes more congested and becomes a big problem that is very difficult to avoid. In this study, we proposed a traffic simulator system LINTAS-BD 1.2, or commonly called as “LINTAS” which served as a tool to solve traffic congestion problems. Various methods and traffic engineering designs can be simulated first through the LINTAS system, before they are actually implemented on the road. The benefit of the LINTAS is to evaluate and simulate traffic conditions based on the design of a particular method or traffic engineering. Furthermore, through simulations, it can be known and tested analytically about the level of accuracy, efficiency, and effectiveness of the method and design. Through the simulation, the most appropriate traffic management method can be found, so that the problem of traffic congestion can be solved. The model and the design system of LINTAS is the arrangement and integration of various blocks or modules included: roads, traffic light, arrival of vehicles, queues, servers, and various obstacles such as intersections, terminals, markets, branches, etc. These various blocks are then combined into a single unit application as a simulator. The objective of this research is to compile a simulation application (traffic simulator) that can be used as a tool to accurately predict traffic situations, and as a medium for testing traffic engineering. The LINTAS simulator is created using the SimEvents toolbox and runs on the MATLAB-Simulink software. The LINTAS system is compiled based on Mathematics, specifically the Queueing Theory.
The effect of 5E learning cycle with metacognitive techniques and mathematical prior ability on mathematical creative thinking skills
Authors: Runisah
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of the 5E Learning Cycle with Metacognitive Techniques (LCM) and Mathematical Prior Ability (MPA) on Mathematical Creative Thinking Skills (MCTS). The subject of the study was 173 eighth grade students from high level school and medium level school in Indramayu, Indonesia. This study used the quasi-experimental method with a pretest-posttest control group design. At each school level, three classes were used in this study, one class used the 5E Learning Cycle with Metacognitive Techniques (LCM), and the other class used the 5E Learning Cycle (LC) and Conventional Learning (CL). The students were classified into three levels based on Mathematical Prior Ability (high, medium, and low). The instruments used are MPA test and MCTS test. The study reveals that in terms of overall and in every MPA level, LCM gives better influence on students’ MCTS than LC and CL, LC gives better influence on students’ MCTS than CL. There is an interaction effect between the learning model and MPA level toward the enhancement of students’ MCTS.
Creative thinking ability on the integrating mathematical habits of mind in missouri mathematics project learning
Authors: Mellawaty  , Sudirman  , Waluya St B , Rochmad
Published: October 2019

The method in this study, Mixed Method Design with concurrent embedded strategy. This research was conducted mathematical creative thinking skills of students class VII-B of Indramayu State Middle School 1, Academic Year 2018/2019. Sampling technique used snowball sampling technique.There were three stages in this research, the first was designing learning process stage that consisted of syllabus, lesson plan, learning syntax and expert validated test items. The second was the implementation. It was conducted to see the students’ respond and activity during the learning process. The third was evaluation stage. This was conducted to know the learning effectiveness. The result, it was obtained that (1) the learning design integrated Mathematical Habits of Mind (MHM) and Missouri Mathematic Project (MMP) consists of syllabus, lesson plan, learning syntax, students’ worksheet and TKBKM were valid; (2) The respond of students and teacher were 82,9% good and happy to involve in the process of learning design that integrates Mathematical Habits of Mind (MHM) and Missouri Mathematic Project (MMP); (3) the learning that integrates Mathematical Habits of Mind (MHM) with Missouri Mathematics Project (MMP) learning is effective in improving mathematical creative thinking students with moderate categories.
Numerical simulation on the effect of damper opening angle in square duct 90-degree elbow
Authors: Hakim L , Asmorowati E T
Published: October 2019

New results in the form of velocity distribution in the square duct elbow 90-degree have been obtained from the simulation results. The flow characteristics through which are analyzed using commercial CFD software. The Reynolds averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) equation will be solved numerically using the finite difference method and using the SIMPLE algorithm. The test model to be used in this study is square duct which is installed in the inlet section 90-degre elbow with a double damper placed at a distance of x / Dh = 2 after out late elbow. In this paper, the effect of the damper opening angle on the velocity profile on the 90-degree square duct is simulated in simulation at the opening angle of 30-degree clockwise direction and 30-degree counter-clockwise direction. The simulation results in the form of velocity profile distribution in each position are shown through the graph and obtained a maximum velocity magnitude value of 26.143 m/s which is exactly the place of the damper.
A Didactical Design of Problem Based Learning Teaching Materials to Overcome Students Learning Obstacles on Calculus
Authors: Fitrianna A Y , Yuliani A , Yuspriyati D N
Published: October 2019

This study aims to develop a didactical design for Calculus subject teaching materials using Problem Based Learning. The research method used in this study was didactical design research. The research steps taken are didactic situation analysis, to see the student learning obstacle that appears in calculus courses. The subjects taken were students who had received Calculus I courses, namely 5 people in class 2015, 5 people in 2016, and 5 people in 2017. The results of the didactic situation analysis were difficulties in understanding students in the initial calculus material, so the special emphasis was placed on - Initial calculus material with problem-based learning. Based on the results of the learning obstacle, a problem-based calculus teaching material was developed and validated. Metapedidaktic analysis, at this stage a limited trial was conducted on students who were taking calculus courses in class 2018. Retrospective analysis revised teaching materials and linked the learning obstacle with student responses and observations during learning. The results of this study are learning tools used in calculus learning with problem-based learning. The didactic design developed received positive responses from students.
The use of ASSURE learning design to improve mathematical problem solving ability and self-determination of junior high school students
Authors: Zanthy L S , Chotimah S , Sari I P
Published: October 2019

The ability to solve problems and self-determination of junior high school students in West Bandung Regency is still low, so various alternative solutions are needed to overcome them. This study aims to determine the improvement of problem solving ability and self-determination of class VIII students by using ASSURE design (Analyzing student characteristics; State standards and goals; Choosing methods, media and materials; Utilizing media and materials; Requiring student participation; and Evaluating and revising) based on his learning style. This study used an experimental method and one group pretest post-test design. The sample is class VIII students selected by purposive sampling at one of the junior high schools in West Bandung Regency. The instrument of this study used a descriptive test of 5 questions about problem solving ability and 30 scales of student self-determination attitudes. Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that: Improving problem solving ability and student self-determination using ASSURE learning design is suitable for all types of student learning styles (auditory, visual and kinaesthetic).
Surface modification of metal oxide films by gold nanoparticles
Authors: Rehacek V , Hotovy I , Predanocy M , Vojs M , Marton M
Published: October 2019

The goal of this contribution is to develop a process the most appropriate for the deposition of colloid gold nanoparticles on the surfaces of metal oxides (TiO2, NiO) prepared on silicon and/or alumina substrates. Important procedures such as hydrophilization of metal oxide surface and its subsequent functionalization with a silane coupling agent 3 mercapto propyl tri metoxy silane (MPTMS) were examined so as to reach a metal oxide surface with the most satisfying properties for immobilization of gold nanoparticles having a uniform and dense distribution. TiO2 nanotips prepared by reactive ion etching of oxide surface covered with selfmask gold nanoparticles as well as improved hydrogen gas sensing properties of the NiO film covered by gold nanoparticles are demonstrated.
Investigation of palladium current collectors for vertical graphene-based microsupercapacitors
Authors: Vyas A , Cornaglia F , Rattanasawatesun T , Li Q , Haque M , Sun J , Kuzmenko V , Smith A D , Lundgren P , Enoksson P
Published: October 2019

As microsystems are reduced in size and become integrated in the Internet of Things (IoT), they require an adequate power supply which can be integrated at the same size scale. Microsupercapacitors (MSCs), if coupled with on-chip harvesters, can offer solutions for a self-sustaining, on-chip power supply. However, the implementation of reliable MSC wafer-scale production compatible with CMOS technology remains a challenge. Palladium (Pd) is known as a CMOS compatible metal and, in this paper, we investigate the use of Pd as a contact material for vertical graphene (VG) electrodes in wafer-scale MSC fabrication. We show that a Ti diffusion barrier is required to prevent short-circuiting for the successful employment of Pd contacts. The fabricated MSCs demonstrate a capacitance of 1.3 μF/cm2 with an energy density of 0.42 μJ/cm2. Thus, utilization of a Ti diffusion barrier with a CMOS compatible Pd metal electrode is a step towards integrating MSCs in semiconductor microsystems.
Investigating the plasma properties of a Xe-microplasma thruster
Authors: Seton R , Sturesson P , Persson A
Published: October 2019

By combining optical emission spectroscopy (OES) and Langmuir probes, the plasma properties of a Xenon-microplasma thruster have been investigated. Using IV-curve analysis the properties of the plasma have been determined and correlated to the power fed into it. Satisfactory agreement has been obtained with the results of OES measurements (line-ratio technique) and shock-cell distance calculations. While the fuel consumption of the thruster decreased very linearly with the power fed to the plasma, the plasma properties was found to have behave in a more complex way. In the studied power range, the density ratio between at least two ions, with upper configurations 5p5(2P°3/2)7p and 5p5(2P°3/2)6p, strongly indicated that the ionization processes of the former was favourable in terms of thrust for the geometry of the nozzle. This was supported electron temperature measurements from IV-curves.
Fabrication of boron doped diamond cantilevers by means of dry ICP etching
Authors: Vojs M , Marton M , Jančo M , Behúl M , Řeháček V , Michniak P , Držík M , Redhammer R
Published: October 2019

This paper is focused on the preparation of boron doped diamond (BDD) cantilevers for MEMS applications. Hot filament CVD diamond deposition technique was used for preparation of highly boron doped thin film. The fabrication process consisted only of dry etching steps and masking process, no wet etching of substrate was used. Therefore, it was necessary to optimize both anisotropic and isotropic etching to release the cantilever structure from silicon substrate. Doped diamond cantilevers were etched by reactive ion etching using inductively coupled plasma (ICP RIE) through aluminum etching masks. The optimal properties of fabrication process led to high quality MEMS structures. The resulting cantilevers were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and laser vibrometer system. Finally, we demonstrate a BDD cantilever (5 μm width) with the main resonant frequencies at 22.2 kHz, 46.6 kHz, 52.2 kHz and 65.6 kHz.
Fabrication of nanocones by RIE on GaP
Authors: Eliáš P , Haščík Š
Published: October 2019

GaP(111)B substrate was etched through colloidal self-assembled randomly distributed 30nn Au nanoparticles by RIE. We looked into how GaP nanocones (NCs) formed with respect to the chamber pressure and etching duration, and the use of electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) RIE mode. The NCs were steep-walled in RIE, and those produced by ECR RIE were bell shaped. The NC length increased with etching duration for the same chamber pressure. The NCs were shorter and slightly steeper with decreased pressure for the same etching duration. The NCs that had the Au particles eradicated during the etching process became blunt and were gradually diminished.
A Systematic Literature Review and Head-to-Head Comparison of Social Support and Social Constraint in Relation to the Psychological Functioning of Cancer Survivors
Authors: Rivera Rivera Jessica N , Burris Jessica L
Published: October 2019

Background

Quality of life is a multidimensional concept that includes perceptions of one’s physical, psychological, social, and spiritual functioning, all of which are theorized to be interdependent. The focus of this study is social functioning, which itself is a multidimensional concept that includes social support and social constraint among other things. In cancer survivors, social support receives most of the research attention, but social constraint may have a stronger influence on quality of life.

Purpose

This systematic literature review evaluates which aspect of social functioning—social support or social constraint—has a stronger relationship with the psychological functioning of cancer survivors.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed in the identification and review of 32 independent records. Multiple measures of social support and social constraint were used across studies, with most having adequate psychometric properties. Psychological outcomes were divided into (a) general distress, (b) cancer-specific distress, (c) general well-being, and (d) cancer-specific well-being.

Results

For general and cancer-specific distress, social constraint exhibited a larger association with distress than social support. Similarly, for general well-being, most studies reported a stronger association with social constraint than social support. For cancer-specific well-being, the opposite was true such that associations were stronger for social support than social constraint.

Conclusions

Results highlight the importance of considering social constraint when examining quality-of-life outcomes like psychological distress and well-being. Findings support social constraint as a target in interventions to reduce cancer survivors’ distress, while social support could be considered in attempts to promote cancer-specific well-being.
The Changing Science of HIV Epidemiology in the United States
Authors: D’Souza Gypsyamber , Golub Elizabeth T , Gange Stephen J
Published: October 2019

In 1984, a large prospective study of the natural history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS), was established; 10 years later, the Women’s Interagency HIV Study (WIHS) was launched. Motivated by the merger and redesign of these long-standing HIV cohort studies in 2019, we review ways in which HIV epidemiology in the United States has transformed over the lives of these studies and how this evolution has influenced planning for enrollment and follow-up. We highlight changes that have occurred in the 3 major domains that are central to epidemiologic science: changes to key populations at highest risk for HIV, refinements in measurement and shifts in the outcomes of interest, and a new era in the tools and approaches that epidemiologists use to synthesize evidence from measurements made on populations. By embracing foundational principles with modern methods, the epidemiologic approach of analyzing the causes and distributions of diseases in contemporaneous populations will continue to advance HIV science over the next decade.
FluReassort: a database for the study of genomic reassortments among influenza viruses
Authors: Ding Xiao , Yuan Xuye , Mao Longfei , Wu Aiping , Jiang Taijiao
Published: October 2019

Genomic reassortment is an important genetic event in the generation of emerging influenza viruses, which can cause numerous serious flu endemics and epidemics within hosts or even across different hosts. However, there is no dedicated and comprehensive repository for reassortment events among influenza viruses. Here, we present FluReassort, a database for understanding the genomic reassortment events in influenza viruses. Through manual curation of thousands of literature references, the database compiles 204 reassortment events among 56 subtypes of influenza A viruses isolated in 37 different countries. FluReassort provides an interface for the visualization and evolutionary analysis of reassortment events, allowing users to view the events through the phylogenetic analysis with varying parameters. The reassortment networks in FluReassort graphically summarize the correlation and causality between different subtypes of the influenza virus and facilitate the description and interpretation of the reassortment preference among subtypes. We believe FluReassort is a convenient and powerful platform for understanding the evolution of emerging influenza viruses. FluReassort is freely available at https://www.jianglab.tech/FluReassort.
Eagle: multi-locus association mapping on a genome-wide scale made routine
Authors: George Andrew W , Verbyla Arunas , Bowden Joshua
Published: October 2019

Motivation

We present Eagle, a new method for multi-locus association mapping. The motivation for developing Eagle was to make multi-locus association mapping ‘easy’ and the method-of-choice. Eagle’s strengths are that it (i) is considerably more powerful than single-locus association mapping, (ii) does not suffer from multiple testing issues, (iii) gives results that are immediately interpretable and (iv) has a computational footprint comparable to single-locus association mapping.

Results

By conducting a large simulation study, we will show that Eagle finds true and avoids false single-nucleotide polymorphism trait associations better than competing single- and multi-locus methods. We also analyze data from a published mouse study. Eagle found over 50% more validated findings than the state-of-the-art single-locus method.

Availability and implementation

Eagle has been implemented as an R package, with a browser-based Graphical User Interface for users less familiar with R. It is freely available via the CRAN website at https://cran.r-project.org. Videos, Quick Start guides, FAQs and Demos are available via the Eagle website http://eagle.r-forge.r-project.org.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Investigating the Movement Components of Host Preference in a Highly Mobile Insect Herbivore, Nephotettix cincticeps (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae)
Authors: Gray Hannah L , Andow David A , Kiritani Keizi
Published: October 2019

Effective insect management strategies require a firm understanding of the factors determining host preference, particularly in highly mobile insect herbivores. Host preference studies commonly employ average or first position as a proxy for preference. Yet few studies have explored host preference in relation to transitory attraction and leaving rates, yet these are both components of host plant selection. We investigated the transitory dynamics of preference by the green rice leafhopper, Nephotettix cincticeps (Uhler) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) by conducting experiments on groups of females, males, or mixed-sex leafhoppers, and recording their position over time between low-N and normal-N rice plants. Utilizing a log-linear model and variants of a biostatistical model we used these positional data to extract attraction, leaving and tenure rates to better understand the process of host-plant selection. We found a general preference for normal-N over low-N plants at equilibrium. However, between sexes there was variation in the relative significance of attraction or leaving rates on that preference. Female leafhoppers were more attracted to host plants with higher nitrogen content. Male leafhoppers were less discriminate in their initial attraction to hosts but left low-N hosts at a faster rate. Whereas estimated tenure times on both normal- and low-N plants exceeded transmission times for the leafhopper-transmitted rice dwarf virus, longer tenure on normal-N plants likely increases the likelihood of virus acquisition from these plants. Our findings support previous recommendations that growers can mitigate the risks of leafhopper damage and pathogen transmission by optimizing their application of nitrogenous fertilizers.
Individual preferences for voluntary vs. mandatory vaccination policies: an experimental analysis
Authors: Meier Nicolas W , Böhm Robert , Korn Lars , Betsch Cornelia
Published: October 2019

Background

More and more countries are discussing the introduction of mandatory vaccination policies. Yet, little is known about individuals’ actual preferences for voluntary vs. mandatory vaccination policies, and the psychological processes underlying such preferences. Objective of the present research was to investigate the development of individual preferences for voluntary and mandatory vaccination policies.

Methods

We conducted a controlled laboratory study (N = 168) using a repeated interactive vaccination game with decision-contingent monetary incentives. In each round, participants decided in favour of either a voluntary or a mandatory vaccination policy, followed by the vaccination decision (voluntary policy) or vaccination (mandatory policy) which both resulted in actual (financial) consequences.

Results

We observe large heterogeneity in participants’ preferences for the voluntary vs. mandatory policy. Under voluntary vaccination, the preference for the mandatory policy increased with decreasing vaccination rates (and increasing risk of infection). In contrast, experiencing vaccine-adverse events under mandatory vaccination increased the preference for the voluntary policy. The latter effect was larger for individuals with a negative (vs. positive) attitude toward vaccination. Overall, as individuals gathered experiences under both the voluntary and the mandatory policy, the preference for voluntary vaccination policy increased over time.

Conclusions

Individuals are more willing to accept mandatory vaccination policies when vaccination rates are low. In the long run, the occurrence of vaccine-adverse events may spark opposition to mandatory vaccination.
Healthcare access for asylum seekers and refugees in England: a mixed methods study exploring service users’ and health care professionals’ awareness
Authors: Tomkow Louise J , Kang Cara Pippa , Farrington Rebecca L , Wiggans Ruth E , Wilson Rebecca J , Pushkar Piyush , Tickell-Painter Maya C , Lee Alice R , Whitehouse Emily R , Mahmood Nadia G , Lawton Katie M , Lee Ellen C
Published: October 2019

Background

With the aim of decreasing immigration, the British government extended charging for healthcare in England for certain migrants in 2017. There is concern these policies amplify the barriers to healthcare already faced by asylum seekers and refugees (ASRs). Awareness has been shown to be fundamental to access. This article jointly explores (i) health care professionals’ (HCPs) awareness of migrants’ eligibility for healthcare, and (ii) ASRs’ awareness of health services.

Methods

Mixed methods were used. Quantitative survey data explored HCPs’ awareness of migrants’ eligibility to healthcare after the extension of charging regulations. Qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with ASRs were analyzed thematically using Saurman’s domains of awareness as a framework.

Results

In total 514 HCPs responded to the survey. Significant gaps in HCPs’ awareness of definitions, entitlements and charging regulations were identified. 80% of HCP respondents were not confident defining the immigration categories upon which eligibility for care rests. Only a small minority (6%) reported both awareness and understanding of the charging regulations. In parallel, the 18 ASRs interviewed had poor awareness of their eligibility for free National Health Service care and suitability for particular services. This was compounded by language difficulties, social isolation, frequent asylum dispersal accommodation moves, and poverty.

Conclusion

This study identifies significant confusion amongst both HCP and ASR concerning eligibility and healthcare access. The consequent negative impact on health is concerning given the contemporary political climate, where eligibility for healthcare depends on immigration status.
Epithelial cell infection by Epstein–Barr virus
Authors: Chen Jia , Longnecker Richard
Published: October 2019

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is etiologically associated with multiple human malignancies including Burkitt lymphoma and Hodgkin disease as well as nasopharyngeal and gastric carcinoma. Entry of EBV into target cells is essential for virus to cause disease and is mediated by multiple viral envelope glycoproteins and cell surface associated receptors. The target cells of EBV include B cells and epithelial cells. The nature and mechanism of EBV entry into these cell types are different, requiring different glycoprotein complexes to bind to specific receptors on the target cells. Compared to the B cell entry mechanism, the overall mechanism of EBV entry into epithelial cells is less well known. Numerous receptors have been implicated in this process and may also be involved in additional processes of EBV entry, transport, and replication. This review summarizes EBV glycoproteins, host receptors, signal molecules and transport machinery that are being used in the epithelial cell entry process and also provides a broad view for related herpesvirus entry mechanisms.
The last primary forests of the Tertiary relict Glyptostrobus pensilis contain the highest genetic diversity
Authors: Wu Xingtong , Ruhsam Markus , Wen Yafeng , Thomas Philip I , Worth James R P , Lin Xueying , Wang Minqiu , Li Xinyu , Chen Lu , Lamxay Vichith , Le Canh Nam , Coffman Gretchen
Published: October 2019

Glyptostrobus pensilis (Staunt.) Koch is a relict species in the Cupressaceae that previously had a global distribution but is now restricted to Southern China and two disjunct populations along the Annamite ranges in Laos and Vietnam. Using nuclear and chloroplast microsatellite markers (cpSSR and nSSR, respectively), we investigated the genetic diversity and divergence within and between 14 populations representing the entire range. Nuclear EST-SSR markers revealed low genetic diversity (He = 0.272) within populations and strong genetic differentiation (FST = 0.452) among populations. Populations in Laos, which represent the last primary forests of G. pensilis, contain the highest genetic diversity and are of particular conservation importance. The geographic cpSSR variation is consistent with the results from the nSSR analysis. Prolonged geographical isolation is likely to be the main reason for regional genetic patterns. Climatic changes during the Holocene, coupled with anthropogenic impacts, have further reduced its distribution and population size. The clear genetic structure suggests that at least, two refugia existed at different latitudes in Southeast Asia. Preserving and expanding its remaining habitat and increasing population sizes are likely to be the most important measures for the conservation of this species.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption Following a New Dementia Diagnosis
Authors: Arora Kanika , Bhagianadh Divya
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Despite extensive research on lifestyle factors that influence the risk of developing dementia, limited evidence exists on whether older adults adopt healthier habits post-diagnosis in the hope of preserving their quality of life.

Method

Using panel data (1998–2014) from the Health and Retirement Study, this study investigated whether individuals who received a new dementia diagnosis were more likely to modify smoking and drinking behaviors than those without such a diagnosis. Propensity score weighting was used to adjust for observable differences between groups.

Results

Older adults with a new dementia diagnosis were 2.8 times more likely to reduce alcohol consumption than those without such a diagnosis. This result was mainly attributable to “light” drinkers at baseline and appeared to fade over time. We found no statistically significant effect of a dementia diagnosis on smoking cessation or on reduction in the number of cigarettes smoked. These results were robust to multiple sensitivity tests, including the use of cognition scores to indicate dementia onset instead of self-reported physician diagnosis.

Discussion

A new dementia diagnosis can serve as a window of opportunity that prompts some older adults to change habits related to alcohol consumption. This has important implications for clinical practice surrounding dementia diagnosis disclosure, the rates of which are currently much lower than other medical conditions.