bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Root dentine thickness of danger zone in mesial roots of mandibular first molars
Authors: Zhou Guangchao , Leng Diya , Li Mingming , Zhou Yang , Zhang Cuifeng , Sun Chao , Wu Daming
Published: January 2020

Background: Better understanding of the danger zone anatomy in mesial roots (MRs) of mandibular first molars (MFMs) may serve to decrease the risk of mishaps. This study aimed to measure the minimal distal dentine thicknesses of danger zone in MRs of MFMs in a native Chinese population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: CBCT images of 1792 MFMs from 898 Chinese patients were analyzed. The minimal distal dentine thicknesses of the mesiobuccal (MB) and mesiolingual (ML) canals below the furcation 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 mm were measured. The association between the minimal distal dentine thicknesses and the root lengths, patient’s age and gender, side were assessed. Results: The minimal distal dentine thicknesses of MB and ML canals are located 3∼4 mm below the furcation for both men and women. There are no differences between MB and ML canals, while the minimal distal dentine thicknesses of MB and ML canals were higher in men than women ( P <0.05), except at 1 and 3 mm of ML canals ( P >0.05). The minimal distal dentine thicknesses of MB and ML canals increased with age in both men and women at each location ( P <0.05). The minimum distal dentine thickness at every location were significantly different between long teeth and short teeth both in men and women ( P < 0.05), with short teeth having the smallest mean values. There are no significant differences between two sides ( P >0.05). Conclusions: The minimal distal dentine thicknesses of MRs in MSMs have close correlation with root length, patient’s age and gender.
Development and preliminary validation of a brief Nurses' Perceived Professional Benefit Questionnaire (NPPBQ)
Authors: HU Yanli , HU Jing , Li Liping , ZHAO Bin , Liu Xiaohong , Li Fan
Published: January 2020

Objective Our objective was to develop and psychometrically test a brief Nurses' Perceived Professional Benefit Questionnaire (NPPBQ).Methods After expert consultation and nurse interviews, a primary questionnaire was developed for an exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The seventeen items of the NPPBQ were used for verification of the theorized factor structure and content validity using a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The NPPBQ’s concurrent validity was evaluated. Three samples of nurses were collected in Shanghai, Hangzhou and Nanjing between November 2017 and August 2018.Results The results of the EFA and CFA verified the five dimensions of nurses’ occupational benefit discovery. The results demonstrated that the NPPBQ has adequate internal consistency and is fully consistent with the theorized factor structure. This 5-factor solution explained an adequate percentage of the total variance. The Cronbach’s alpha of each dimension of the NPPBQ was good. The concurrent validity was significantly correlated with all aspects of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI).Conclusion The results suggest that the NPPBQ is a psychometrically sound measure for evaluating perceived professional benefits among a wide range of nurses.
Efficacy of acupuncture in improving the symptoms and life quality of patients with moderate or severe acne vulgaris: protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jiao Ruimin , Huang Man , Zhang Weina , Liu Zhishun
Published: January 2020

Background: Acne vulgaris (AV) is a common chronic dermatologic disease that tends to impair the appearance and quality of life (QoL) of patients. Although acupuncture has been indicated as an effective treatment for patients with AV in several trials, the results of these trials are also controversial due to potential for bias of their design. And none of the previous clinical trials of acupuncture therapy for AV used the QoL as a primary outcome or employed a sham acupuncture control arm. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of acupuncture on the symptoms and QoL of patients with moderate or severe AV. Methods/design: Ninety-six eligible participants with AV will be randomly assigned to acupuncture or sham acupuncture groups (1:1 allocation). All participants will receive 4-week treatment comprising of a total of 12 sessions (3 sessions per week). The primary outcome will be change from baseline in the Skindex-16 scale total score at treatment completion. The secondary outcomes will be Skindex-16 subscale scores, the Dermatology Life Quality Index scale total score, the total lesion count and inflammatory lesion count, itch and pain assessment using the visual analogue scale score, patient expectations of acupuncture, and the blinding of the effect of sham acupuncture. Follow-up evaluation will be performed at weeks 16 and 28. All outcome analyses will be performed in the intention-to-treat population. Discussion: We expect to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture on the symptoms and QoL of patients with moderate or severe AV compared with sham acupuncture. The limitation of the design of this trial is that the single center study with a relatively small sample size, the acupuncturists will not be blinded.
Detection of aberrant events in RNA sequencing data
Authors: Yépez Vicente A. , Mertes Christian , Mueller Michaela F. , Andrade Daniela S. , Wachutka Leonhard , Frésard Laure , Gusic Mirjana , Scheller Ines , Goldberg Patricia F. , Prokisch Holger , Gagneur Julien
Published: January 2020

RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) has emerged as a powerful approach to discover disease-causing gene regulatory defects for individuals affected with a genetically undiagnosed rare disorder. Pioneer studies have shown that RNA-seq could increase diagnostic rates over DNA sequencing alone by 8% to 36 % depending on disease entities and probed tissues. To accelerate the adoption of RNA-seq among human genetic centers, detailed analysis protocols are now needed. Here, we present a step-by-step protocol that instructs how to robustly detect aberrant expression, aberrant splicing, and mono-allelic expression of a rare allele in RNA-seq data using dedicated statistical methods. We describe how to generate and assess quality control plots and interpret the analysis results. The protocol is based on DROP (Detection of RNA Outliers Pipeline), a modular computational workflow that integrates all analysis steps, can leverage parallel computing infrastructures, and generates browsable web page reports.
General trends in freshwater ecological restoration practice in China over the past two decades: the driving factors and the evaluation of restoration outcome
Authors: Wu Juan , Dai Yanran , Cheng Shuiping
Published: January 2020

Background Although freshwater ecological restoration (FER) has undergone an immense development in China either in the number of projects or in the spatial scale of implementations, a dearth of clear and comprehensive trends in this field is still a particular concern. We conducted a literature survey through searching the database of Web of Science between 1998-2017.Results A total of 2047 publications were hit and 198 of them were finally retained after manual screening. The number of studies in this field has been steadily increasing in recent years and their provincial distribution is positively correlated with GDP growth and the investment to pollution control and protection, suggesting that economic development is a key driving factor of FER practice. Among the remained articles, nearly half (46.5%) focus on lake ecosystems, and 34.8% and 32.8% of the studies believe that land reclamation and eutrophication are the top two causes of freshwater ecosystem degradation. The overarching target of the restoration is biodiversity increase (31.4%), followed by water quality improvement (24.7%) and ecosystem services (23.9%). Revegetation is the dominant restoration approach (40.9%). Reference sites for assessment of restoration projects are normally control areas or locations without intervention (60%), or the status of the targeted sites before the interventions. For the restoration outcome evaluation, 86% of the studies present positive outcomes in terms of water quality improvement, and 79% have improvement in biological features. The most frequently monitored organisms are macrophytes (31%), then followed by benthos as indicators of ecological condition.Conclusions The literature research indicated that economic growth, water pollution and investment into environmental protection are the main driving factors of FER practice in China. Additionally, the effort of restoration and evaluation over the past two decades has not been limited to improving hydrological function and water quality, but also pay increasingly more attention to biological processes and ecological integrity, and further the ecosystem services in recent years. However, the lack of long-term monitoring and socioeconomic attributes considered in restoration success assessments are still particular issues needed to be addressed in the future FER researches and projects.
Yeast display platform technology to prepare oral vaccine against lethal H7N9 virus challenge in mice
Authors: Lei Han , Xie Bowen , Gao Tong , Cen Qianhong , Ren Yi
Published: January 2020

Background Existing methods for preparing influenza vaccines pose the greatest challenge against the threat of highly pandemic avian influenza virus H7N9 outbreak in the poultry and human. Exploring a new strategy for manufacturing and delivering a safe and effective H7N9 vaccine is urgently needed. Results An alternative approach, proposed here, is to develop influenza an oral H7N9 vaccine based on yeast display technology in a timely manner. Hemagglutinin (HA) of A/Anhui/1/2013 (AH-H7N9) as a model antigen and characterized its expression on the surface of Saccharomyces cerevisiae ( S.cerevisiae ) EBY 100. Mice orally administrated with S.cerevisiae EBY100/pYD5-HA produced significant titers of IgG antibody as well as significant amounts of cytokines IFN-γ and IL-4. Importantly, S.cerevisiae EBY100/pYD5-HA could provide complete immune protection against homologous A/Anhui/1/2013 (AH-H7N9) virus challenge. Conclusion Our findings suggest that platform based on yeast surface technology provides an alternative approach to prepare a promising influenza H7N9 vaccine candidate that can significantly shorten the preparedness period and result in effective protection against influenza A pandemic. Keywords: S.cerevisiae EBY100/pYD5-HA, Yeast display technology, Influenza A pandemic.
Results of a PREM to measure the rare disease patients’ caregivers experience: A Spanish cross-sectional study
Authors: Mora Mercedes Guilabert , Martínez-García Alba , Sala-González Marina , Solas Olga , Mira José Joaquín
Published: January 2020

Objective To measure the experience of the person suffering from a rare disease in order to identify objectives for optimal care in the health care received by these patients. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Spain involving patients associated with the Spanish Rare Diseases Federation [Federación Española de Enfermedades Raras] (FEDER). A modified version of the PREM IEXPAC instrument was used (IEXPAC-rare-diseases). Scores ranged between 0 (worst experience) and 10 (best experience).Results A total of 261 caregivers (in the case of paediatric population) and patients with rare diseases (response rate 54.4%) replied. Most males, 227 (87%), with an average age of 38 (SD 13.6) years. The mean time since confirmation of diagnosis was 7.8 (SD 8.0) years. The score in this PREM was 3.5 points out to 10 (95%CI 3.2-3.8, SD 2.0). Caregivers of paediatric patients scored higher, except for coordination of social and healthcare services.Conclusions There are wide and important areas for improvement in the care of patients with rare diseases. This study involves a first assesment of the experience of patients with rare diseases in Spain.
Pre-stroke adherence to a Mediterranean diet pattern is associated with lower acute ischemic stroke severity: A cross-sectional analysis of a prospective hospital-register study
Authors: Mazzon Enrico , Lavados Pablo M. , Rojo Alexis , Brunser Alejandro M. , Olavarría Verónica V.
Published: January 2020

Background: High adherence to a Mediterranean Diet is associated with reduced incidence and mortality of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) but may also be associated with severity.
Aim : To investigate the association of adherence to a Mediterranean diet and severity in a prospective hospital register of AIS patients.
Methods: We included AIS patients admitted from February 2017 to July 2019. All were assessed by a neurologist with a standard stroke protocol, including NIHSS. Adherence to Mediterranean diet was prospectively measured by the 14-point Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) and defined as low (0-6 points) or high (7-14 points). Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared by group with univariate analysis. A Generalized Linear Model (GLM) was used to investigate the association of admission NIHSS as a continuous ordinal variable and an ordinal logistic regression (OLR) analysis to determine the independent association of the NIHSS quartiles with adherence to Mediterranean diet.
Results: 368 patients were included, mean age 68.3 (17.7), 158 (42.9%) females. The median NIHSS score was 3 (IQR 1-9) and the median MEDAS score was 6 (IQR 4.5-8). Patients with high MEDAS scores had significantly lower; admission NIHSS scores, sedentary lifestyle, body mass index, total and LDL cholesterol levels, but higher alcohol consumption. After adjustments, high adherence to Mediterranean diet remained independently associated with lower stroke severity both in the GLM (p=0.03) and in the OLR model (OR for lower quartiles 0.89; 95% CI 0.82-0.97).
Conclusions: Higher pre-stroke adherence to a Mediterranean diet is independently associated with lower AIS severity.
An exploration of the complex biogeographical history of the Neotropical banner-wing damselflies (Odonata: Polythoridae)
Authors: Herrera Melissa Sanchez , Beatty Christopher , Nunes Renato , Salazar Camilo , Ware Jessica L
Published: January 2020

Background: The New World Tropics has experienced a dynamic landscape across evolutionary history and harbors a high diversity of flora and fauna. While there are some studies addressing diversification in Neotropical vertebrates and plants, there is still a lack of knowledge in arthropods. Here we examine temporal and spatial diversification patterns in the damselfly family Polythoridae; which comprises seven genera with a total of 58 species distributed across much of Central and South America.Results: Our time-calibrated phylogeny for 48 species suggests that this family radiated during the early Eocene (~56 Ma), diversifying during the middle Eocene. As with other neotropical groups, the Most Recent Common Ancestor (MRCA) of most of the Polythoridae genera has a primary origin in the Northern Andes though the MRCA of at least one genus may have appeared in the Amazon Basin. Diversification rates have been uniform in all genera except one—Polythore—where a significant increase in the late Pliocene (~3 mya) correlates with mountain uplift. While our molecular clock suggests correlations with some major geographical events, our biogeographical modeling (with BioGeoBEARS and RASP) found little influence of the formation of the Pebas and Acre systems or Andean mountain building, possibly due to the short branch lengths in our time-dated phylogeny, or perhaps to climatic variability during the period in question. Conclusion: The biogeographical models implemented here were unable to explain the effect of South American major geological events (i.e Pebas and Acre systems, Andes uplift) on the diversification of this damselfly family; while diversification in the tree shows some correlation with mountain building events, it is possible that other abiotic and biotic changes during our study period have influenced diversification as well. The high diversification rate observed in Polythore could be explained by the late uplift of the Northern Andes. However, it is possible that other intrinsic factors like sexual and natural selection acting on color patterns could be involved in the diversification of this genus.
Children’s physical activity level and sedentary behavior in Norwegian early childhood education and care: effects of a staff-led cluster-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Andersen Eivind , Øvreås Steinar , Jørgensen Kari Anne , Borch-Jenssen Janne , Moser Thomas
Published: January 2020

A growing body of evidence suggest that the children’s physical activity (PA) level in early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings are insufficient. Since most children attend ECEC settings for many hours on most days of the week, and these institutions reach children across the socioeconomic spectrum, the ECEC settings may serve as an ideal avenue for increasing physical activity (PA) level, reduce sedentary time and enhance the overall health of young children. This paper investigates the effectiveness of the “Active Kindergarten – Active Children” study to increase children’s PA level and reduce sedentary time within the ECEC setting.Accelerometers were used to asses PA and sedentary time. A total of 116 four-year olds took part in a randomized controlled trial in 11 ECEC settings. Participants were cluster-randomized, by ECEC setting, to either a 12 week staff-led and expert-supported intervention or a waiting list control group. The intervention group increased time spent in moderate- and vigorous intensity PA by 10 min/day (95% CI = 3, 18; P=0.01), took 1909 more steps per day (95% CI = 1130, 2688; P˂0.01) and reduced sedentary time with 14min/day (95% CI = -27, -1; P=0.04) compared to the control group. The intervention group had a 2.4 higher odds (95% CI = 1.05, 5.7; P = 0.04) of meeting the PA recommendations compared to the control group at follow-up.Our results show that a flexible staff-led and expert-supported multicomponent PA intervention can increase total PA level, moderate- and vigorous intensity PA and reduce time spent sedentary in four-year-old children during their stay in ECEC settings.
Features of alternative splicing in stomach adenocarcinoma and their clinical implication: A research based on massive sequencing data
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Niu Qian , Han Yun , Liu Xingyu , Jiang Jie , Chen Simiao , Lin Haolong
Published: January 2020

Background: Alternative splicing (AS) offers a main mechanism to form protein polymorphism. A growing body of evidence indicates the correlation between splicing disorders and carcinoma. Nevertheless, an overall analysis of AS signatures in stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) is absent and urgently needed. Methods: Within this work, genetic expression and clinical data of STAD were queried from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and profiles of AS events were searched from the SpliceSeq database. Cox regression analysis found survival associated AS events. Finally, the splicing network was constructed to reflect the correlation between survival associated AS events and splicing factors (SF). Results: 2042 splicing events were confirmed as prognostic molecular events. Furthermore, the final prognostic signature constructed by 10 AS events gave good result with an area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve up to 0.902 for 5 years, showing high potency in predicting patient outcome. We built the splicing regulatory network to show the internal regulation mechanism of splicing events in STAD. QKI may play a significant part in the prognosis induced by splicing events. Conclusions: In our study, a high-efficiency prognostic prediction model was built for STAD patients, and the results showed that AS events could become potential prognostic biomarkers for STAD. Meanwhile, QKI may become an important target for drug design in the future.
Interprofessional Communication (IPC) for Medical Students: A Scoping Review
Authors: Bok Chermaine , Ng Cheng Han , Koh Jeffery Wei Heng , Ong Zhi Hao , Ghazali Haziratul Zakirah Binte , Tan Lorraine Hui En , Ong Yun Ting , Cheong Clarissa Wei Shuen , Chin Annelissa Mien Chew , Mason Stephen , Krishna Lalit
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND Interprofessional communication (IPC) improves patient care, cost efficiency and improves teamwork among healthcare professionals. For medical students IPC training is crucial to navigating complex healthcare practices yet there is little consistency to IPC training. This scoping review looks at IPC training approaches for medical students to improve preparedness for clinical practice.METHODS Arksey and O’Malley (2005) framework for scoping review was used to guide this review of articles on IPC training for medical students published between 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2017 in PubMed, ScienceDirect, JSTOR, Google Scholar, ERIC, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO, Mednar and OpenGrey. A ‘split approach’ that sees concurrent independent use of a directed content analysis and Braun and Clarke’s approach to thematic approach was employed by different members of the research team to scrutinize the data.RESULTS 17,493 titles and abstracts were found, 250 full-text articles were reviewed and 70 full text articles were included. The ‘split approach’ to analysis forwarded similar themes that corresponded with the different levels of Miller’s Pyramid. These were “Knows”, “Knows How”, “Shows how” and “Does”. Each stage involves particular training modalities and context appropriate modes of assessments to measure medical students’ competency levels. IPC training was found to be well received, positive, increased students’ understanding and practice of communication. Obstacles to IPC training include scheduling constraints, inexperienced and untrained teachers, and initial anxiety and adjustment for students.CONCLUSIONS This scoping review reveals IPC training to be competency and assessment based, and dependent upon learning objectives and a clear alignment of expectations. Faculty training, a conducive learning environment tailored to the learner, and effective assessment methods at each training stage are crucial to the success of IPC training. Further evaluations are recommended to ensure the translatability of these findings to other medical specialities and other healthcare professions.
The association between psychological characteristics and physical activity levels in people with knee osteoarthritis: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Uritani Daisuke , Kasza Jessica , Campbell Penny K. , Metcalf Ben , Egerton Thorlene
Published: January 2020

Background The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between psychological characteristics and physical activity levels, measured as the average number of steps per day, in people with knee osteoarthritis (OA).Methods This study analysed baseline data from a randomized controlled trial. A total of 167 adults aged over 50 years, with knee pain rated as four or more on an 11-point numeric rating scale, and knee OA diagnosed using American College of Rheumatology clinical criteria, were recruited from the community (62 men and 105 women; mean age, 62.2 ± 7.5 years). The average number of steps per day over seven consecutive days was measured using an accelerometer-based device. Psychological characteristics evaluated were: depressive symptoms (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale), self-efficacy (Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale for pain and other symptoms), fear of movement (Brief Fear of Movement Scale for Osteoarthritis), and pain catastrophizing (Pain Catastrophizing Scale). Pain catastrophizing was only collected from 130 people. The association between the average number of steps per day and psychological characteristics was analyzed using a linear regression model, with the average number of steps per day as the dependent variable, adjusting for each psychological characteristic separately, and age, sex, body mass index, and pain entered as covariates.Results There was evidence that the amount of physical activity was associated with fear of movement (coefficient [B]: -133, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: -257 to -8) and with pain catastrophizing (B: -44, 95%CI: -86 to -1). The association with self-efficacy was similar (B:153, 95%CI: -2 to 308). However, the direction of the association with depressive symptoms was less clear (B:75, 95%CI: -165 to 14).Conclusions The results of this study revealed that the relationship was such that lower fear of movement and lower pain catastrophizing may be associated with more steps per day. It may be hypothesized that fear of moving and pain catastrophizing lead to activity avoidance and that strategies to improve these disease-related psychological aspects may be useful in enhancing physical activity participation, although this hypothesis is highly speculative and needs further testing given the cross-sectional design of this study.
The risk of fracture and prevalence of osteoporosis is elevated in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies: data from a single Hungarian center
Authors: Vincze Anett , Bodoki Levente , Szabó Katalin , Nagy-Vincze Melinda , Szalmás Orsolya , Dankó Katalin , Gaál János , Griger Zoltan
Published: January 2020

Background: The prevalence of osteoporosis and risk of fractures is elevated in rheumatoid arthritis, but we have little information about the bone mineral density and fracture risk in patients with inflammatory myopathies. We intended to ascertain and compare fracture risk, bone mineral density (BMD) and the prevalence of vertebral fractures in patients with inflammatory myositis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to assess the effect of prevalent fractures on the quality of life and functional capacity. Methods: Fifty-two patients with myositis and 43 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were included in the study. Fracture Risk was determined using FRAX® Calculation Tool developed by the University of Sheffield. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and bidirectional thoracolumbar radiographs were performed to assess BMD and vertebral fractures. Quality of life was measured with Short Form-36 (SF-36) and physical function assessment was performed using Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Results: We found a significantly elevated fracture risk in RA compared to myositis patients if the risk assessment was performed without the application of the BMD results. If BMD results and glucocorticoid dose adjustment were taken into account, the differences in fracture risk were no longer significant. The prevalence of osteoporosis was found to be significantly higher in the myositis group (7% vs. 13.5%, p: 0,045), but the fracture prevalence was similar in the two groups (75% vs. 68%). The fractures rates were associated with age in both groups, but not with cumulative dose of steroid and BMD results correlated with fracture prevalence only in the RA patients. The number of prevalent fractures was significantly correlated to poorer physical function in both groups, and poorer health status in the myositis group, but not in the RA group. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that inflammatory myopathies carry significantly elevated risk for osteoporosis and fractures. This higher risk is comparable to one detected with RA in studies and strongly affects the physical function and quality of life of patients. Therefore further efforts are required to make the fracture risk assessment reliable and to facilitate the use early preventive treatments.
Effects of Substrate and Exogenous Auxin on the Adventitious Rooting of Dianthus caryophyllus L.
Authors: Zheng Liang , Xiao Zibin , Song Weitang
Published: January 2020

In this study, Dianthus caryophyllus L. was used as the experimental plant to investigate the effects of rooting substrate and exogenous auxin concentration on the adventitious rooting of the stem cuttings. Our results showed that the formulated substrates with different physicochemical properties significantly affected the root formation. The substrate with a ratio of cocopeat to perlite at 1:1 (v:v) resulted in the optimum rooting of D. caryophyllus cuttings. Different Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and 1-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) concentrations affected the rooting percentage and seedling rate of D. caryophyllus. Application of NAA at 1000 mg·kg−1 with IBA at 100 mg·kg−1 resulted in the greatest rooting percentage and improved breeding speed. The rooting percentage and seedling rate did not increase with the increase in auxin concentration. Based on these results, we concluded that an appropriate rooting substrate is required to fulfill proper rooting of D. caryohhyllus cuttings, whereas an exogenous application of IBA and NAA at 1000 mg·kg−1 and 100 mg·kg−1 promoted the rooting and a higher auxin concertation inhibited rooting.
Pengaruh Model Pembelajaran Problem Based Learning terhadap Sikap Mandiri dan Kemampuan Komunikasi Matematika Siswa Kelas V SD Negeri Bakalrejo 1
Authors: Safitri Erika Muninggar , Sari Yunita , Dewi Rida Fironika Kusuma
Published: January 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui: (1) apakah ada pengaruh model pembelajaran problem based learning terhadap sikap mandiri siswa kelas V SD Negeri Bakalrejo 1; (2) Aapakah ada pengaruh model pembelajaran problem based learning terhadap kemampuan komunikasi matematika siswa kelas V SD Negeri Bakalrejo 1; dan (3) apakah ada pengaruh model pembelajaran problem based learning terhadap sikap mandiri dan kemampuan komunikasi matematika siswa kelas V SD Negeri Bakalrejo 1. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan yaitu nonequivalent control group design. Hasil perhitungan hipotesis I menggunakan rumus independent sample t test nilai perhitungan menggunakan SPSS 16 dengan nilai signifikansi pada kolom sig.(2-tailed) sebesar 0,000 yang berarti model problem based learning berpengruh terhadap sikap mandiri siswa. Hipotesis II menggunakan rumus independent sample t test nilai perhitungan menggunakan SPSS 16 dengan nilai signifikansi pada kolom sig.(2-tailed) sebesar 0,000 berarti ada pengaruh model pembelajaran problem based learning terhadap kemampuan komunikasi matematika siswa. Hasil perhitungan hipotesis III menggunakan uji manova menunjukkan bahwa hasil analisis untuk Pillai's Trace, Wilks' Lambda, Hotelling's Trace,Roy's Largest Root semuanya menunjukkan nilai sebesar 0,000 karena signifikansi kurang dari 0,05 berarti ada pengaruh model pembelajaran problem based learning terhadap sikap mandiri dan kemampuan komunikasi matematika siswa siswa kelas V SD Negeri Bakalrejo 1.
Idronoxil as an Anticancer Agent: Activity and Mechanisms
Authors: Porter Kate , Fairlie Walter Douglas , Laczka Olivier , Delebecque Frederic , Wilkinson John
Published: January 2020

Idronoxil has been the subject of more than 50 peer-reviewed publications over the last
two decades. This isoflavone is an intriguing regulator of multiple signal transduction pathways, capable
of causing a range of biological effects, including cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, an ability to
stimulate the immune system, and inhibition of angiogenesis. These multifaceted actions suggest
that idronoxil has the potential to synergize with, or complement, a wide range of cancer therapies.
Whilst clinically tested in the past, idronoxil’s journey was discontinued as a result of its low
bioavailability in humans when administered either intravenously or orally, though strategies to
overcome this issue are currently being explored. Here, we summarize the current literature regarding
the key cellular targets of idronoxil and the mechanisms by which idronoxil exerts its anticancer
effects, laying a new foundation toward giving this unique molecule a second chance of contributing
to the future of cancer treatment.
The Influence of Hydrogen Atoms on the Performance of Radial Distribution Function-Based Descriptors in the Chemoinformatic Studies of HIV-1 Protease Complexes with Inhibitors
Authors: Novak Jurica , Grishina Maria A. , Potemkin Vladimir A.
Published: January 2020

Aims::

The aim of this letter is to explore the influence of adding hydrogen atoms to the
crystallographic structures of HIV-1 protease complexes with a series of inhibitors on the performance
of radial distribution function based descriptors recently introduced in chemoinformatic studies.

Background::

Quite recently the successful application of molecular descriptors based on a radial
distribution function to correlate it with biologically interesting properties of a ligand – enzyme
complex was demonstrated. Except its predictive power, the analysis of atoms with dominant contributions
to the RDFs can be used to identify relevant atoms and interactions. Since original paper
was published on dataset consisting of the X-ray structures of complexes without hydrogen atoms,
we wonder weather addition of light atoms can provide us new piece of information.

Objective::

The primarily objective is to create the model correlating the RDF based descriptors
and physicochemical properties of the HIV-1 protease complexes with inhibitors with hydrogen
atoms. Then, we will compare the performance of new model with previous one, where the hydrogen
atoms were discarded. Information about interactions between the enzyme and the inhibitors
will be extracted from the analysis of the RDF.

Methods::

The radial distribution function descriptor weighted by the number of valence shell electrons
has proven to be sensitive to the changes in the structure of the enzyme and enzyme-ligand
complexes. For each structure in our data set, RDF will be calculated and using multiple linear regression
method the mathematical model will be designed correlating RDF based descriptors and
the physicochemical properties. Statistical analysis of the atom’s contribution to the total RDF will
reveal relevant interactions.

Results::

The applicability of RDF based descriptor for the correlation with pKi and EC50 values is
demonstrated, while simple models containing only two or three parameters are able to explain 78
and 86 % of the variance, respectively. The models with explicitly included hydrogens are of
comparable quality with the previous models without hydrogens. The analysis of the atom’s dominant
contributions highlighted the importance of the hydroxyl groups of the inhibitor near the
Asp25 and Asp25’ residues when it is bounded to the protease.

Conclusion::

Models based on the RDF weighted by the number of valence shell electrons for correlating
small number of molecular descriptors and physicocehmical properties for structures with
and without hydrogens are of comparable quality and both can be used for identification of relevant
functional groups and interactions.

Other::

Our approach can be integrated to the next generation virtual screening methods, because is
fast, reliable with high predictability potential.
Synthesis and Assessment of Novel Anti-chlamydial Benzylidene Acylhydrazides Derivatives
Authors: Bao Xiaofeng , Xue Ying , Xia Chao , Lu Yin , Yang Ningjing , Zhao Yu
Published: January 2020

Background:

Chlamydiae, characterized by a unique biphasic life cycle, are a group of
Gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterial pathogens responsible for diseases in a range of hosts
including humans. Benzylidene acylhydrazide CF0001 could inhibit chlamydiae independent of
iron starvation and T3SS inhibition. This finding promoted us to design and synthesize more benzylidene
acylhydrazides to find novel anti-chlamydial agents.

Methods:

The carboxylic acids 1a-1d were coupled with Boc-hydrazide inpresence of EDCI and
DMAP to obtain the intermediate 2a-2d in 60-62% yields. N-Boc deprotections were performed to
obtain hydrazide hydrochloride salt 3a-3d. Nextly, the hydrazides were subjected to condensation
with aldehydes to obtain benzylidene acylhydrazides 4a-4g in 30-52% yields in two steps.

Results:

Compound 4d exhibited best inhibitory effect on the formation and growth of chlamydial
inclusions. The IC50 value of compound 4d for infectious progenies was 3.55 µM, better than 7.30
µM of CF0001.

Conclusion:

To find novel anti-chlamydial agents, we have designed and synthesized benzylidene
acylhydrazides 4a-4g. Compounds 4a, 4d, 4g showed inhibitory activity on C. muridarum with the
IC50 values from 3.55-12 µM. The 3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxyl substitutes on ring B are critical to keep
their anti-chlamydial activity. Compound 4d inhibited C. muridarum in a dose-dependent manner
without apparent cytotoxicity.
Design of Potential IKK-β Inhibitors using Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Techniques for their Anti-cancer Potential
Authors: Singh Salam P. , Hussain Iftikar , Konwar Bolin K. , Deka Ramesh C. , Singh Chingakham B.
Published: January 2020

Aim and Objective:

To evaluate a set of seventy phytochemicals for their potential ability
to bind the inhibitor of nuclear factor kappaB kinase beta (IKK-β) which is a prime target for
cancer and inflammatory diseases.

Materials and Methods:

Seventy phytochemicals were screened against IKK-β enzyme using
DFT-based molecular docking technique and the top docking hits were carried forward for molecular
dynamics (MD) simulation protocols. The ADME-Toxicity analysis was also carried out for
the top docking hits.

Results:

Sesamin, matairesinol and resveratrol were found to be the top docking hits with a total
score of -413 kJ/mol, -398.11 kJ/mol and 266.73 kJ/mol, respectively. Glu100 and Gly102 were
found to be the most common interacting residues. The result from MD simulation observed a
stable trajectory with a binding free energy of -107.62 kJ/mol for matairesinol, -120.37 kJ/mol for
sesamin and -40.56 kJ/mol for resveratrol. The ADME-Toxicity prediction observed that these
compounds fall within the permissible area of Boiled-Egg and it does not violate any rule for
pharmacological criteria, drug-likeness etc.

Conclusion:

The study interprets that dietary phytochemicals are potent inhibitors of IKK-β enzyme
with favorable binding affinity and less toxic effects. In fact, there is a gradual rise in the use
of plant-derived molecules because of its lesser side effects compared to chemotherapy. The study
has also provided an insight by which the phytochemicals inhibited the IKK-β enzyme. The
investigation would also provide in understanding the inhibitory mode of certain dietary
phytochemicals in treating cancer.
Potencialidades do Geossítio Paredões de Janeiro, Parque Nacional de Ubajara, Ceará, Brasil: a geomorfologia como patrimônio
Authors: Alves Meira Suedio , Leite do Nascimento Marcos Antonio , Da Silva Edson Vicente
Published: January 2020

O Geossítio Paredões de Janeiro (GPJ), Tianguá (Ceará), reúne algumas das mais espetaculares feições geomorfológicas do Parque Nacional de Ubajara (PNU). Contempla o contato do Glint da Ibiapaba com a Depressão Sertaneja, fendas estruturais e uma cachoeira. Porém, apesar do potencial, a área não dispõe de ações diretas de conservação e trabalhos científicos. O presente trabalho tem por objetivo realizar o inventário dos locais de interesse geológico, a sua avaliação quantitativa e proposta de estratégias de conservação, valorização e divulgação para o GPJ. No GPJ foram inventariados dois mirantes, quatro fendas estruturais e uma cachoeira. A avaliação quantitativa classificou o GPJ como de relevância nacional, com valor científico de 285, educativo de 305 e turístico de 255. Quanto à valorização foram selecionadas a Pedra do Espia e a Fenda Norte para a confecção de painéis interpretativos. Para a divulgação, é proposto um cartão postal e sua inserção em três roteiros geoturísticos. A presente pesquisa demonstra de forma quantitativa e qualitativa os valores científicos, educativos e turísticos do GPJ, erguendo esse espaço enquanto prioritário para a instituição de ações de conservação e educação ambiental no contexto do PNU.
Cartografia do patrimônio geomorfológico voltada à interpretação geoturística
Authors: Figueiró Adriano Severo , Von Ahn Maurício Mendes
Published: January 2020

Este trabalho tem como objetivo colaborar com as discussões que envolvem a representação cartográfica dos elementos associados ao patrimônio geomorfológico, a fim de investigar como vem ocorrendo no Brasil a comunicação do conteúdo geocientífico com o público não especialista. Para atender ao objetivo utilizou-se a classificação de mapas geoturísticos para não especialistas proposta por Géraldine Bissing, da universidade de Lausanne. Foram selecionados 27 mapas geoturísticos oriundos de pesquisas brasileiras, onde buscou-se enquadrá-los dentro da classificação de mapas geoturísticos. Identificou-se que 85% dos mapas elaborados no Brasil são de pequena escala, apresentando uma falta de informações científicas e turísticas. Em relação à simbologia, apenas 11% dos mapas utilizam símbolos figurativos, os quais são os mais adequados para fins geoturísticos, uma vez que a informação não foi apenas simplificada, mas sim traduzida para uma linguagem facilmente compreensível pelo público não especialista. No caso dos mapas elaborados no Brasil, constatou-se o uso de fotografias de campo no entorno do layout de alguns mapas a fim de tornar mais efetiva a comunicação do conteúdo com o público não especialista. Conclui-se que se faz necessária uma cartografia própria à interpretação geoturística, baseada em representações e interesses de grupos e indivíduos, a fim de compreender a sua efetividade na difusão do conhecimento sobre o patrimônio geomorfológico com o público não especialista.
Kansei engineering approach for developing electric motorcycle
Authors: Baroroh Dawi Karomati , Amalia Mya , Lestari Nur Puji
Published: January 2020

Electric vehicles are considered one of the solutions that can reduce vehicle emissions into the environment. However, the enthusiasts' number of the electric motorcycle is still relatively really low. In order to escalate product and competitive value in the market, the design elements of the electric motorcycle have to develop. The aim of this research is to design electric motorcycle that appropriate with user needs and desires by utilizing Kansei Engineering. This study involved 212 respondents for the Semantic Differential I and 204 respondents for the Semantic Differential II. The results of this study were 14 pairs of kansei words which were used to evaluate 11 sample designs where there were 5 items and 14 design categories. The design specifications of the most dominant electric motorcycle were angled seat, type 1 of front hood, 2 slots for luggage box, type 3 of headlight, and type 2 of body hood.
A Physical Activity and Diet Program Delivered by Artificially Intelligent Virtual Health Coach: Proof-of-Concept Study (Preprint)
Authors: Maher Carol Ann , Davis Courtney Rose , Curtis Rachel Grace , Short Camille Elizabeth , Murphy Karen Joy
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Poor diet and physical inactivity are leading modifiable causes of death and disease. Advances in artificial intelligence technology present tantalizing opportunities for creating virtual health coaches capable of providing personalized support at scale.

OBJECTIVE

This proof of concept study aimed to test the feasibility (recruitment and retention) and preliminary efficacy of physical activity and Mediterranean-style dietary intervention (MedLiPal) delivered via artificially intelligent virtual health coach.

METHODS

This 12-week single-arm pre-post study took place in Adelaide, Australia, from March to August 2019. Participants were inactive community-dwelling adults aged 45 to 75 years, recruited through news stories, social media posts, and flyers. The program included access to an artificially intelligent chatbot, Paola, who guided participants through a computer-based individualized introductory session, weekly check-ins, and goal setting, and was available 24/7 to answer questions. Participants used a Garmin Vivofit4 tracker to monitor daily steps, a website with educational materials and recipes, and a printed diet and activity log sheet. Primary outcomes included feasibility (based on recruitment and retention) and preliminary efficacy for changing physical activity and diet. Secondary outcomes were body composition (based on height, weight, and waist circumference) and blood pressure.

RESULTS

Over 4 weeks, 99 potential participants registered expressions of interest, with 81 of those screened meeting eligibility criteria. Participants completed a mean of 109.8 (95% CI 1.9-217.7) more minutes of physical activity at week 12 compared with baseline. Mediterranean diet scores increased from a mean of 3.8 out of 14 at baseline, to 9.6 at 12 weeks (mean improvement 5.7 points, 95% CI 4.2-7.3). After 12 weeks, participants lost an average 1.3 kg (95% CI –0.1 to –2.5 kg) and 2.1 cm from their waist circumference (95% CI –3.5 to –0.7 cm). There were no significant changes in blood pressure. Feasibility was excellent in terms of recruitment, retention (90% at 12 weeks), and safety (no adverse events).

CONCLUSIONS

An artificially intelligent virtual assistant-led lifestyle-modification intervention was feasible and achieved measurable improvements in physical activity, diet, and body composition at 12 weeks. Future research examining artificially intelligent interventions at scale, and for other health purposes, is warranted.
Social media communication and healthy eating behaviour: Facebook for Healthy Eating (Preprint)
Authors: Wen Yin Wong , Moghavvemi Sedigheh
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

The rise of social media in the health domain renders it a viable alternative channel for promoting health behaviour. Among the social media platforms, Facebook is perceived as an influential factor contributing to positive health behaviour. Literature outlined that social interaction on Facebook seems relevant to the promotion of positive health behaviour. However, details on the interaction and its subsequent impact on health behaviour remain unexplored, particularly healthy eating.

OBJECTIVE

This research aimed to determine the influence of Facebook social interaction on healthy eating behaviour. Specifically, this research examined the effect of social interaction on healthy eating knowledge leading to healthy eating behaviour. Besides, this research also investigated the effect of a determinant of social interaction, namely social tie.

METHODS

Adopting the quantitative research approach, data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. The questionnaires were distributed online to those who used Facebook, while its paper counterparts were distributed via snowball, purposive, and convenient sampling. In total, 755 responses were received, 459 responses from the online survey and 296 responses from the paper survey. The structural equation model (SEM) technique was used to assess the proposed research framework.

RESULTS

The proposed research model showed a reasonable model fit with CMIN/DF = 2.94, GFI = 0.934, AGFI = 0.917, NFI = 0.937, TLI = 0.951, CFI = 0.957, RMSEA = 0.051. All three hypotheses proposed were not rejected. Social tie (beta=.446; P<.001) has a significant positive influence on social interaction. Social interaction (beta=.781; P<.001) was found to have a significant and positive effect on healthy eating knowledge. Healthy eating knowledge (beta=.709; P<.001) influence healthy eating behaviour significantly. The model indicated that 50% of the variance of healthy eating behaviour could be estimated by healthy eating knowledge, social interaction, and social tie.

CONCLUSIONS

This research pioneered the understanding of the role of Facebook for healthy eating behaviour. Social interaction on Facebook plays a significant role in improving healthy eating knowledge, which affects healthy eating behaviour. This research supports the notion that Facebook has great potential as a means for the cultivation of healthy eating behaviour. This research is noteworthy in its contribution to advancing the discipline of health behaviour with social media applications.

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