bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Within-Station Variability in Kappa: Evidence of Directionality Effects
Authors: Ji Chunyang , Cabas Ashly , Cotton Fabrice , Pilz Marco , Bindi Dino
Published: April 2020

One of the most commonly used parameters to describe seismic attenuation is the high-frequency spectral decay parameter Kappa (κr), yet the physics behind it remain little understood. A better understanding of potential factors that lead to large scatter in estimated values of κr constitutes a critical need for ground-motion modeling and seismic hazard assessment at large. Most research efforts to date have focused on studying the site-to-site and model-to-model variability of κ, but the uncertainties in individual κr estimations associated with different events at a selected site (which we refer to as the within-station variability of κr) remain uncharacterized. As a direct corollary, obtaining robust estimates of the site-specific component κ0, and their corresponding interpretation become a challenge. To understand the sources of the variability observed in κr (and κ0) at a single site, we select 10 Japanese Kiban–Kyoshin network (KiK-net) downhole arrays and investigate the systematic contributions from ground-motion directionality. We observe that κr estimated from a single horizontal component is orientation dependent. In addition, the influence of ground-motion directionality is a function of local site conditions. We propose an orientation-independent κr-value, which is not affected either by ground-motion directionality or by the events’ azimuths. In addition, we find that focal depth of events used in κr calculations affects the estimation of the regional attenuation component κR, which, in turn, influences the within-station variability in the κ0 model.
Bioinformatical Analysis of HGPRT Transferase from Different Malaria Parasite Plasmodium spp. Using Computational Tools
Authors: Ali Nahla Osman Mohamed
Published: April 2020

In this study, HGPRT transferases from different malaria parasite Plasmodium species was analyzed and presented in this communication. The composition of leucine, lysine and Isoleucine were the highest while lowest concentrations of tryptophan and glutamine residues were noticed when compared to other amino acids. pI value of P. reichenowi HGPRT was 7.59 while the lowest pI of 6.22 was shown by P. chabaudi HGPRT. The instability index of all the transferases is varied, but for all of them it was less than 40, which indicates that all of them are stable. The aliphatic index was found to span within a range of 83 to 97. Secondary structural analysis of the transferases showed the pre-dominance of random coils followed by extended strands for all the transferases except P. falciparum, P. Knowlesi and P. reichenowi HGPRT transferase. The significance of the above results is discussed in the light of existing literature.
The Use of Atherogenic Index of Plasma in Assessing the Potential Cardiovascular Risk among ABO Blood Groups in Sickle Cell Disease Patients
Authors: Emokpae Mathias Abiodun , Akpologun Lynda Bose
Published: April 2020

Studies have associated ABO blood groups with cardiovascular risk events in the general population and no significant association has yet been reported in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients. This study uses the atherogenic indices to evaluate the potential cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk of ABO blood groups in SCD patients. Lipoprotein concentrations were assayed in 200 SCD patients and 100 control subjects with normal haemoglobin using the enzymatic colorimetric method. The atherogenic indices were calculated and compared among the various blood groups to show which of the blood group has elevated atherogenic risk of CVD. The means total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were highest in blood group A and lowest in blood group O while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was lowest in blood group A and highest in blood group O. All the atherogenic indices were highest in blood group A and lowest in blood group O. The mean levels of lipoprotein variables and atherogenic indices were not significantly different between the blood group B and AB. Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), cardiac risk ratio (CRR) and atherogenic coefficient (AC) correlated positively (r=0.348,p=0.005; r=0.236, p=0.05; r=0.238,p=0.05) respectively with blood group A. Similarly AIP, CRR and AC correlated positively (r=0.316, p=0.05; r=0.311, p=0.05; r=0.310, p=0.05) with blood group B. On the other hand, AIP and AC failed to correlate with blood group AB but CRR correlated (r=0.321, p=0.05) with blood group AB. All the atherogenic indices did not correlate significantly with blood group O. Atherogenic indices were higher in non-O blood groups than blood group O. Patients with non-O blood groups may require detail evaluations and closer monitoring than those with blood group O with respect to CVD risk.
Screening of Three Different Alleles of mtDNA (G709A, G3496T, A3537G) in Subpopulation of UKM Students
Authors: Ishar Seri Mirianti , Balaraman Jeyaganesan Pillay a/l , Yusof Muhammad Jefri Mohd , Osman Khairul , Chuen Lee Loong
Published: April 2020

Human DNA consists of nucleus DNA (nDNA) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Both are valuable in medicine and forensic genetics but in this project, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in mtDNA are used to trace the mutation occurred. Mutations in the sequence of alleles can lead to haplogroup variation and also certain diseases. The purpose of this study is to screen of mutations on alleles G709A, G3496T, and A3537G in Malay population of The National University of Malaysia (UKM) students. These SNPs lie in the ND1 (nitrogen dehydrogenase subunit 1) coding region, and the reports state that these three alleles are prone to mutate. From MitoMap Web site, the mutations of these alleles are reported to have potential in causing several diseases with the collaboration of other SNPs mutation. Allele G709A is reported to have an association with hearing loss and Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) while allele G3496T is associated to LHON only. Allele A3537G is related to diabetes. A total of 100 DNA samples were collected from Malay students of UKM and preserved on FTA card to be purified later. The concentration of the DNA on the purified FTA card was between 10μM to 20μM. An attempt was made by amplifying those three loci from the genomic DNA. The amplified product was detected and separated using 1% gel electrophoresis. Before sequencing, the PCR products were visualized under UV light using gel documentation system. All PCR products were sequenced to detect the mutation on every single position chosen. From the alignment of sequencing results, allele G709A and allele G3496T showed no mutation. Meanwhile four samples from alleles A3537G has the mutation. From the results obtained, it seems that mutations are rare in all selected alleles. It is recommended to increase the sample size and alleles selected in the future to increase the strength of the study. This study also should be applied to other populations in Malaysia such as Chinese and Indian.
One Giant Leap for All
Authors: Hagan Carrie , Lanham Kyle
Published: April 2020

A criminal record is an anchor that stays with you even after you have paid your debt to society for the crime you committed. Indeed, that record can make it nearly impossible to meet your basic needs, especially housing, employment, and education. To assist in meeting these needs, Goodwill of Central and Southern Indiana and the Legal Expungement Advice Program (LEAP) created by the Civil Practice Clinic of the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law have aligned with each other and worked together to give qualifying individuals a second chance. This article examines the intersection of these two Indianapolis-area programs providing resources for employment and expungement that help persons previously charged or convicted of crimes get back on their feet -- and stay that way.
Indiana University's Community Engagement Framework for a Public Health Priority
Authors: Newhouse Robin , Faith Kirham Hawkins
Published: April 2020

In 2017, significant increases in opioid overdoses and the crippling effect of substance use on the health of Hoosiers heighted a sense of urgency to address this major health crisis. Indiana University (IU) initiated a Grand Challenge: Responding to the Addictions Crisis (AGC) through a $50 million investment in intramural research and projects to address addictions in Indiana in synergy with state and health system partners. The announcement resulted in immediate response from the community via email and calls with request for engagement from the people of Indiana, groups, organizations and policy makers.  To organize quickly, initial contacts were  categorized into an AGC Community Engagement Framework with five potential levels of engagement - curiosity, interest, advocacy, project partners, initiative partners. To guide our team’s responsiveness, each level is mapped to specific AGC goals, mechanisms of engagement, and engagement owners. The engagement framework developed has high utility for Universities and other public institutions who seek to engage the broad community in public health responses.
Speaking Up, Speaking Out
Authors: Rowley Latosha , Susan Kigamwa
Published: April 2020

This article provides a reflection from two urban education doctoral students regarding their learning experiences and understandings about the inquiry process of community engaged research. They shared their thinking about their understanding about connections between theory and practice in community engaged work. As doctoral students, they value the expertise and guidance of mentor researchers because this is an important resource in the development and growth of a community engaged researcher. The doctoral students shared their knowledge about the importance of community asset mapping and focusing on the strengths and values that are already present in the community. Another important aspect of community engaged research is building trust in community-university partnerships. One tool that helps establish that trust is the use of community conversations. These two doctoral students explored a series of questions as part of their ongoing journey in becoming community engaged researchers.
Authentic Community-University Dialogues
Authors: Richard Bray
Published: April 2020

Community conversations have emerged as a vehicle to invite different voices into addressing the complexities of society and bridge the silos between public and private institutions and the communities. At IUPUI, the Listening and Learning with the Community Conversations are projected to be spaces where local Indianapolis communities and IUPUI faculty, students and staff can come together to discuss ways to strengthen collaborations in areas of common interest.
Learning from "Listening to Communities"
Authors: Michael Valliant  , Megan Betz
Published: April 2020

Community voice has persistently, and to degrees, been present in pockets of curricular and co-curricular community engagement at Indiana University – Bloomington (IUB). The Bloomington Volunteer Network (BVN), a program of the City of Bloomington, was instrumental in creating service-learning infrastructureon campus over 20 years ago and continues participation in regular meetings of campus-community stakeholders.
Student to Student and Families Too
Authors: Kayla Nunnally
Published: April 2020

Indiana University is connecting with students and families across the state to support equitable access to quality education, educational resources, and social-emotional support. In 2016, the IUPUI Office of Community Engagement was awarded a grant funded by Serve Indiana to provide free tutoring, mentoring, and college/career readiness workshops to students in grades 6-12. Services are delivered in-person, via online conferencing, and by telephone to ensure all students and their parent/caregivers have equitable access. In total, seven IU campuses (East, Southeast, Northwest, South Bend, Kokomo, Bloomington and IUPUI) serve over 2,200 students from rural, urban and suburban communities during the school year and summer.
Current Status of Threatened Plant Collections in Cibodas Botanical Garden Based on IUCN Red List
Authors: Kurniawan Vandra , Putri Dwinda Mariska , Surya Muhammad Imam
Published: April 2020

One of the main task of Cibodas Botanical Garden (CBG) is to conserve the Indonesian plants species. Moreover, the preservation and enrichment of threatened plant collections based on IUCN red list categories became an important programme for plants conservation in CBG. The aims of this study are to inventory threatened plant collections and to review the status of CBG threatened plant collections. List of threatened plant collections was gathered from SINDATA, a system developed by CBG. The collection, was reviewed by inspecting current collections in CBG. Literature study was done to review the conservation status of the threatened plant collections. The conservation status was checked in IUCN red list website. The results shown that CBG had collected 86 species of threatened plants, which is 13 Critically Endangered (CR) species, 39 Endangered (EN) species, and 34 Vulnerable (VU) species. Critically endangered category consists of 13 species belong to 8 families and 10 genus. Endangered category consists of 39 species belong to 17 families and 34 genus. Vulnerable category consists of 34 species belong to 27 families and 28 genus. The largest collections of threatened species was genus Nepenthes, which is 16% (14 species) from the total threatened species in CBG. Furthermore, CBG had succeeded in collecting 40 species of Indonesian native plants in which Dipterocarpaceae species were dominate the collection with 7 species. These species are listed as critically endangered (3 species) and endangered (4 species).
The Effects of Climate Change on the Health of Outdoor Workers
Authors: Farhang Dehghan Somayeh , Mosavi kordmiri Hojat , Fallah Modvari Rouhollah , Abasi Balochkhaneh Faezeh
Published: April 2020

This article is an Editorial and does not include an Abstract.
Angiogenesis and Minimal Residual Disease in Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Nematollahi Pardis , Baradaran Azar , Kasaei Koopaei Zahra , Sajjadieh Hamidreza
Published: April 2020

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most prevalent acute leukemia in adults. Bone marrow angiogenesis is crucial for pathogenesis of leukemia, and increasing bone marrow Mean Vascular Density (MVD) and level of angiogenesis factors are seen in patients with AML. Higher level of bone marrow MVD is associated with poor prognosis of AML according to previous studies. The present study aimed to compare bone marrow MVD in AML patients and controls and evaluate the relation between bone marrow MVD and number of residual blast cells after AML treatment.
Materials and Methods: This study is a longitudinal study on AML patients who were admitted to Omid hospital. The bone marrow biopsies of patients with AML and patients with normal diagnosis –as control group- were taken from archives of pathology laboratory. Immunohistochemistry staining was used for all specimens by using thrombomodulin markers for calculating MVD. Flow cytometry findings of AML patients were assessed for percent of minimal residual disease (MRD) after AML treatment in AML patients group.                                                                
Results: In this study, 27 AML patients and 24 healthy individuals with mean age of 40.92±15.13 years were evaluated, of whom 56.86% were male. The mean bone marrow MVD was significantly higher in AML patients than controls. The mean bone marrow MVD was significantly higher in males and there was insignificant reverse correlation between bone marrow MVD and MRD. About 59.3% of AML patients had response to treatment and there was no significant relationship between MVD and response to treatment.                     
Conclusion: Bone marrow MVD was higher in AML patients than controls and there was no remarkable relationship between bone marrow MVD and MRD and response to treatment.
Ghosal Hematodiaphyseal Dysplasia: A Case Report
Authors: Shakiba Marjan , Shamsian Shahin , Malekzadeh Hamid , Yasaei Mehrdad
Published: April 2020

Ghosal hematodiaphyseal dysplasia (GHDD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder presenting with steroid-responsive anemia and diaphyseal dysplasia of long bones. We report a 3-year-old Iranian girl with refractory anemia, splenomegaly and radiologic signs of metadiaphyseal dysplasia in long bones. The diagnosis was established by clinical presentation and X-ray bone survey. The patient was treated with oral prednisolone therapy with considerable improvement in anemia and splenomegaly.
Addictive Use of Smartphones and Mental Disorders in University Students
Authors: Alavi Seyyed Salman , Ghanizadeh Maryam , Farahani Malihe , Jannatifard Fereshteh , Esmaili Alamuti Sudeh , Mohammadi Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2020

Objective: Despite the awareness of smartphone addiction, low findings and lack of validated standards have led to insufficient information in this area. This study aimed to examine the relationship between mobile phone dependency and mental disorders in students in Iran, while controlling for the impact of gender, age, educational levels, and marital status.
Method: In this cross-sectional study, a sample of 1400 university students (445 males and 955 females) aged 18-35 years were selected from 3 cities of Tehran, Isfahan and Karaj. The participants filled out a set of questionnaires: Cell Phone Dependency Questionnaire (CPDQ), Millon Multiaxial Clinical Inventory, and participated in interviews. Data were analyzed using multiple logistic regression method via SPSS-22 software.
Results: In terms of controlling the demographic variables, the results revealed that bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, somatization, dependent personality disorder, and compulsive personality disorder could increase the possibility of mobile phone addiction by 4.2, 4.2, 1.2, 2.8, 3.1, and 3.2 folds, respectively (P < 0.05). However, other disorders and demographic characteristics did not have any significant effects on the equation.
Conclusion: The results can help better understand the relationship between psychological syndromes and smartphone addiction and can also facilitate further studies in this field. In addition, those students with smartphone addiction should be provided with different preventative strategies. Moreover, a growing range of stimulating applications may trigger the risk of addiction.
Relation of Religious Coping and Depression Levels in Infertile Women
Authors: Honarvar Naemeh , Taghavi Mahsa
Published: April 2020

Objective: Religious coping is known as one of the successful manners to cure depressed infertile women; however, research findings show that demographic factors (e.g., education level) have played an important role on the relationship between depression and religious coping scores. The goal of this study is to measure the influence of age, job status, and education level on both scores within Iranian infertile women.
Method: In this cross sectional study, 1000 women (mean age, 35.96; range, 26-45), who are recruited from different hospitals of Shiraz (Iran), are selected via multistage cluster sampling method. The reliability and validity of the translated versions of the questionnaires have been confirmed. The correlation coefficient (Spearman method), adjusted linear regression coefficient, and ordinal regression coefficient of demographic features with the depression scores/levels (minimal, mild, moderate, and severe) and religious coping scores are determined.
Results: A significant negative correlation is found between depression and religious compatibility scores in 1000 infertile women (ρ = -0.318, P = 0.000). In addition, the results have implied the existence of a significant correlation and linear relationship between religious coping and age and job status (P < 0.05). Furthermore, both correlation and ordinal regression of depression intensity with both job status and education level are found to be statistically meaningful (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: The negative correlation between religious coping and depression scores has implied the positive role of religious coping in protecting infertile women from depression, especially among employed women. Nevertheless, the correlation of religious coping with education level is not strong enough due to the nonuniform distribution of variables through their range.
Normative Data and Reliability of the Moving Shapes Paradigm
Authors: Shahrivar Zahra , Tehrani-Doost Mehdi , Khorrami Banaraki Anahita , Mohammadzadeh Azar
Published: April 2020

Objective: Moving Shapes paradigm is a test that evaluates intentionality as a theory of mind (ToM) component. This study aimed to assess the normative data and reliability of this test in a community sample of 9-11-year-old children.
Method: A total of 398 children aged between 9 and 11 years were recruited from mainstream elementary schools through a random cluster sampling. All participants were evaluated using the Moving Shapes paradigm. To evaluate test-retest reliability, the test was administered again after 2-4 weeks.
Results: The intentionality mean score was 29.70 (+5.88) out of 60. There was no significant difference between girls and boys in test scores. Age was not significantly related to the paradigm variables scores. Ten percent of the participants achieved the scores below 22, and 10% above 37. Cronbach’s Alfa was 0.40 for the intentionality score. The test-retest reliability was fair to good (0.43 - 0.79) for different groups of animations. The inter-rater agreement was 80%.
Conclusion: The study found that the Moving shapes paradigm is a reliable instrument to evaluate intentionality in normal school-aged children.
Study on the Fauna of Aquatic Insects in Northwestern Iran
Authors: Abbasi Madineh , Doosti Sara , Vatandoost Hassan , Hosseini-Vasoukolaei Nasibeh
Published: April 2020

Background: Aquatic insects include groups of arthropods which at least one step of their life happens in water. Some of these insects play an important role in the transmission of various diseases to human and animals. Because there is a lit­tle information about the fauna of aquatic insects in Iran, this study was aimed to collect and identify aquatic insects in northwestern Iran.
Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study was performed in July 2017 in Rivers of three villages of Osku County of East Azerbaijan Province, northwestern Iran. The specimens were collected using different methods including D frame net-collector, standard mosquito dipper, Sweep Netting and plastic pipette. The collected specimens were identified based on the systematic keys of aquatic insects.
Results: Totally 285 samples were collected. Four orders including Diptera, Hemiptera, Ephemeroptera and Coleoptera were identified. Collected samples belonged to seven families of Tipulidae, Chironomidae, Corixidae, Culicidae, Hy­dro­philidae, Baetidae and Dytiscidae. The most predominant family was Culicidae belonging to order Diptera. Culiseta longiareo­lata was the most frequent species collected in the study area.
Conclusion: Aquatic insects usually play an important role in the food chain of animals and some species of them act as predators and play an important role in the biological control of vectors. Therefore, more studies are required to carry out in the field of aquatic insects.
Epidemiology of Visceral Leishmaniasis with Emphasis on the Dynamic Activity of Sand Flies in an Important Endemic Focus of Disease in Northwestern Iran
Authors: Mozaffari Ehssan , Vatandoost Hassan , Rassi Yavar , Mohebali Mehdi , Akhavan Amir Ahmad , Moradi-Asl Eslam , Zarei Zabihola , Zahrai-Ramazani Alieza , Ghorbani Esmail
Published: April 2020

Background: Leishmaniasis diseases are known to be one of the most important public health problems in World and Iran. Visceral leishmaniasis is considered to be the most serious form and transmitted by sand flies species. The aim of this study was to investigate the dynamic activities of sandflies in northwestern Iran.
Methods: This crass-sectional study was conducted from April to December 2018 in Meshkinshahr County, Ardabil Province. Sticky traps have been used to collect sand flies. They are stored in 70% alcohol and finally identified using valid keys. The aspects of the synoptic information were inquired from the Meshkin Shahr weather department and results analyzed for SPSS24.
Results: Totally 259 sandflies were collected during study period. From collected samples 78.7% were male and 21.3% female. There were 8 different species. Phlebotomus kandelakii was the most prevalent one (30.8%). The average tem­perature, relative humidity, and average wind speed was 13.5 °C, 84%, and 2 meters per hour on the onset of sandflies’ activity, respectively. These values were 18.3 °C, 85% and 1.5 meters per hour at the peak of their activity and 16 °C, 62% and 5 meters per hour at the final stage of their activity. Sand flies had one peak in July which is strongly influ­enced by temperature and humidity conditions. Two species of Ph. kandelakii and Phlebotomus perfilewi transcaucasi­cus, had the highest activity in this endemic area.
Conclusion: The results of current study will provide a guideline for control of diseases in the country.
Determination of Species Composition of Mosquitoes in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Manzoor Farkhanda , Shabbir Robeela , Sana Madiha , Nazir Sumbal , Aslam Khan Muhammad
Published: April 2020

Background: Present study was conducted to determine species composition of mosquitoes (larvae, pupae and adults) collected from ten different towns of Lahore from September 2014 to August 2015.
Methods: Mosquito larvae, pupae and adults (male and female) were collected by using dippers and aspirators from September 2014 to August 2015 in different sites of Lahore comprising of ten towns i.e. Iqbal, Aziz Bhatti, Data Ganj Baksh, Gulberg, Nishtar, Ravi, Samanabad, Shalimar, Wagah, and Lahore Cantonment. Mosquito larvae and adults were identified by standard entomological keys. Diversity, richness and rarity of mosquito fauna were analyzed by the Shannon, Simpson and Margalef indices respectively.
Results: In this study, a total of 8656 mosquitoes belonging to four genera namely Anopheles, Culex, Aedes and Man­sonia were identified. Among fifteen species collected, Cx. quinquefasciatus was the most abundant species in the city having 25.8% relative abundance. However An. culicifacies s.l. (sensu lato) was reported as the least abundant species with 0.22% relative abundance. The highest diversity of mosquitoes was shown in the month of August (H= 2.25) while the lowest diversity was recorded June (H= 1.43). Extensive sewage water supported the maximum abundance of Cx. quinquifasciatus in urban areas of this city.
Conclusions: This study has significantly elaborated the monthly varying species composition of mosquito fauna of this city. Hence this research will help us to find out the control strategies of mosquito borne diseases in this region.
Monitoring of Laboratory Reared of Phlebotomus papatasi (Diptera: Psychodidae), Main Vector of Zoonotic Cutaneous Leishmaniasis to Different Imagicides in Hyper endemic Areas, Esfahan Province, Iran
Authors: Shirani-Bidabadi Leila , Zahraei-Ramazani Ali Reza , Yaghoobi-Ershadi Mohammad Reza , Akhavan Amir Ahmad , Oshaghi Mohammad Ali , Enayati Ahmad Ali , Rassi Yavar , Gholampour Fatemeh , Shareghi Niloufar , Madreseh Elham , Vatandoost Hassan
Published: April 2020

Background: In domestic and per domestic area,insecticides such as DDT, malathion, fenitrothion, propoxur and, more recently, synthetic pyrethroids such as deltamethrin and lambda-cyhalothrin, have been successfully used to control sand flies in many countries. The present study reports the results of time-mortality bioassay to DDT 4%, lambda-cyhalothrin 0.05%, permethrin 0.75%, cyfluthrin 0.15% and deltamethrin 0.05% in recently colonized Phlebotomus papatasi populations in Iran.
Methods: The insecticide susceptibility status of P. papatasi laboratory population was assessed during 2016–2017, following the standard WHO technique for mosquito (WHO, 2013) based on diagnostic dose. Sand flies collected from rural area of Badrood (Matin Abad), Natanz County, Esfahan Province, using aspirator.
Results: Susceptibility test to DDT and pyrethroids was assessed on 3534 laboratory-reared P. papatasi (1746 females and 1788 males). The LT50 and LT90 values were measured using probit analysis and regression lines. The test results against males of  P. papatasi revealed that LT50 values to DDT 4%, Permethrin 0.75%, Deltamethrin 0.05%, Cyfluthrin 0.15% and Lambdacyhalothrin 0.05% were 439.28, 108.90, 97.75, 5.00 and 57.84 seconds. The figures for females were 641.62, 136.15, 146.44, 8.71 and 72.69 seconds , respectively.
Conclusion: According to presented results, the reared population of sand flies collected from a hyper-endemic region of Esfahan Province is still susceptible to prethroids and Resistance candidate to DDT 4%.
Factores maternos y perinatales asociados a hipoacusia. Serie de casos
Authors: Pérez-Villegas Ruth , Arriagada-Belmar Macarena , Aviles-Muñoz Maribel , Palma-Villegas Jazmín , Valenzuela-Maureira Marcela
Published: April 2020

Introducción: la hipoacusia constituye un importante problema de salud pública, debido a su repercusión sobre el desarrollo emocional, cognitivo y social del niño.Objetivo: determinar factores maternos y perinatales asociados a una población de escolares con hipoacusia.Población: estudio realizado durante el año 2005 en 79 escolares hipoacúsicos detectados por la Junta Nacional de Auxilio Escolar y Becas (JUNAEB).Procedimiento: los datos maternos y perinatales fueron obtenidos de las fichas perinatales en el Hospital Herminda Marti de Chillán, VIII Región, Chile. Variable independiente: hipoacusiaResultados: el promedio de edad actual de los niños fue 16,5 años y la edad promedio de detección de hipoacusia fue de 6,3 años. El 74,7% tenía una edad gestacional de término al nacer. El 50,6% tuvo un peso al nacimiento entre 2.500-3.499 grs. El 38% presentó algún factor de riesgo perinatal asociado, siendo el principal la hiperbilirrubinemia (22,6%). La mayoría de los casos de hipoacusia corresponden al tipo bilateral severo (40,5%).
Local e pesquisa participante enquanto metodologia e prática em educação ambiental.
Authors: Bussab Lemos de Castro Paulo , Keila Marinho da Silva Fernanda , Buzanelli Torres Roseli , Sumiko Kinoshita Luiza
Published: April 2020

O artigo pretende colaborar com uma concepção possível de trabalho dentro do campo da Educação Ambiental, apresentando uma discussão teórico-metodológica vinculada à pesquisa participante. Isso, através de materiais produzidos por pesquisadores e alunos do ensino médio de uma escola pública de Campinas – SP.  Enfatizam-se as perspectivas que o grupo assumiu durante a pesquisa, sejam elas relacionadas à Educação Ambiental em sua concepção crítica; ao local como objeto de estudo e tema gerador das discussões coletivas; bem como o ensino de ciências como necessariamente contextualizado. Os dados foram apresentados a partir do discurso dos participantes, explicitando suas escolhas e reflexões subsidiadas pelo referencial teórico adotado e, também, indicando a pesquisa participante como a metodologia que se aproxima da Educação Ambiental Crítica.
Knowledge of haemodialysis patients concerning methods of preventing hyperphosphataemia
Authors: Janus Anna , Holecki Michał , Hawrot- Kawecka Anna , Kawecki Grzegorz
Published: April 2020

Wstęp:

Rozpoczęcie leczenia nerkozastępczego wiąże się zasadniczo ze zmianą stylu odżywiania. Istotnym problemem klinicznym, często obserwowanym u chorych hemodializowanych, jest dodatni bilans fosforanowy. Postępowanie w przypadku hiperfosfatemii opiera się przede wszystkim na interwencji dietetycznej i stosowaniu leków wiążących fosfor w przewodzie pokarmowym. Właściwie przeprowadzona edukacja chorych na PCHN ułatwia postrzeganie zagrożeń, jakie wynikają z niewłaściwej diety.

Materiał i metody:

W badaniu zastosowano metodę sondażu diagnostycznego z wykorzystaniem kwestionariusza ankiety własnego autorstwa. Sondaż zawierał pytania zamknięte dotyczące znajomości wskazówek dietetycznych zalecanych chorym hemodializowanym, pozwalających na utrzymanie zalecanej fosfatemii. Analizę statystyczną wykonano w programie SAS wersja 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, North Carolina, USA), przyjmując poziom istotności statystycznej p < 0,05. Wykorzystano testy: Chi2/Fishera z uwagi na małą liczebność w podgrupach, test Kruskala-Wallisa dla porównania trzech grup oraz test U Manna-Whitneya dla porównania dwóch grup.

Wyniki:

Chorzy hemodializowani byli świadomi konieczności stosowania ograniczeń w spożywaniu produktów
z wysoką zawartością fosforu, lecz mieli problemy z wybraniem tych, które są zalecane przy komponowaniu posiłków. Właściwy zestaw mięs wybrało 44 chorych (36%). Spożycie nabiału w umiarkowanej ilości deklarowały 74 osoby (61%). Spożycie żółtka jaja kurzego ograniczyło 46 respondentów (38%). Z puli dostępnych serów spożycie głównie twarogu deklarowało 92 badanych (76%). Właściwy zestaw pieczywa wskazało 31 pacjentów (26%), a napojów gazowanych unikało 73 chorych (60%).

Wnioski:

Stan wiedzy chorych na temat możliwości zapobiegania hiperfosfatemii był dalece niewystarczający.
Building resilient communities in the midst of shame, guilt, fear, witchcraft, and HIV/AIDS
Authors: Buys P.J.
Published: April 2020

One of the most challenging issues in dealing with HIV/AIDS is breaking through the stigmas surrounding the disease and building resilience in communities where large numbers of people are infected with and affected by the HIV pandemic. This article explores the relationship between shame, fear, guilt, witchcraft and HIV/AIDS stigmatization with specific reference to a rural community in South Africa. This will be done by looking at key features of the African Traditional worldview and culture. Predominant witchcraft beliefs and how it manifests in community attitudes towards PLWA as we have observed it over a period of 10 years in the KwaNdebele region will be pointed out. The influence of prevailing beliefs in witchcraft and the way it aggravates the experience of fear, shame, and suffering of stigmatization by people infected and affected by HIV will also be highlighted. Approaches to Christian HIV/AIDS counselling and intervention have to be contextualised to be culturally sensitive and relevant. At the same time, the article wants to stress that a Christian approach to HIV/AIDS intervention may be enriched and become more holistic when the aspects of the Christian Gospel dealing with God’s merciful covering of the shame of his children and Christ’s victory over and disarmament of all evil spiritual powers and authorities are believed and embraced.
Crystal Period Vectors under External Stress in Statistical Physics
Authors: Liu Gang
Published: April 2020

For crystal periodic structure prediction, a new and concise approach based on the principles of statistical physics was employed to derive a new form of the equation to determine their period vectors (cell edge vectors), under general external stress. Then the new form is applicable to both classical physics and quantum physics. It also turned out to be the equation of state and the specific explicit equilibrium condition for crystals under external stress and temperature. It should be helpful in piezoelectric and piezomagnetic studies, as the period vectors were changed by the external stress. For linear elastic crystals, it is actually also the microscopic but temperature-dependent form of the generalized Hooke's law, then can be used to calculate the corresponding elastic constants of the law, for given temperatures.
The ATP Hypothesis: A New Conceptual Framework for the Origin of the Genetic Code
Authors: Xie Ping
Published: April 2020

The origin of the genetic code is the key to revealing the origin of life on Earth, as it is a prerequisite for the existence of life. More than half a century has passed since the discovery of the genetic code, but its origin is still one of the greatest mysteries. Is the origin of the genetic code truly unknowable? Does the code truly require external design? Here, a hypothesis is proposed, according to which ATP is at the origin of the genetic code by its coevolution with the pristine biochemical system. ATP has several properties that make it suitable as a plausible initiator of the genetic code. First, ATP is the only energetic product of photosynthesis. Second, ATP is at the heart of the extant biochemical systems. Third, ATP serves as a carrier of both energy and information. Fourth, ATP could energetically elongate chains of both polynucleotides and polypeptides, thus providing a bridge between these molecules and eventually mediating prebiotic biochemical innovation from energy transformation to informatization. This hypothesis shows how primitive life emerged through a series of processes from energy to information flow mediated by ATP. Informatization (processes for creating and managing information) was inevitably coupled with structuralization (processes for organizing or incorporating cellular structures), cyclizing polynucleotides and polypeptides into a feedback loop of reciprocal causation. The triplet codon might be only for stereochemical handling of amino acids through, e.g., Watson–Crick pairing interactions. It is only the evolutionary completion of the genetic code from RNA to DNA that, contrary to the central dogma, marked the dawn of cellular life, when Darwinian evolution began to operate. The ATP hypothesis sheds light on the origin of life, together with the formation of both photosynthetic and biochemical systems, which remains largely unknown thus far.
A Neutrophil Activation Signature in COVID-19
Authors: Didangelos Athanasios
Published: April 2020

Covid-19 is often related to hyperinflammation that drives lung or multi-organ damage and mortality. The immunopathological mechanisms that cause excessive inflammation following SARS-Cov-2 infection are under investigation while different approaches to limit hyperinflammation in affected patients are being proposed. Here, a computational network approach was used on recently available data to identify possible Covid-19 inflammatory mechanisms. First, network analysis of putative SARS-Cov-2 cellular receptors and their directly associated interacting proteins, led to the mining of a robust neutrophil-response signature and multiple relevant inflammatory response genes. Second, analysis of RNA-seq datasets of lung epithelial cells infected with SARS-Cov-2 found that infected cells specifically expressed neutrophil-attracting chemokines, further supporting the likely role of neutrophils in Covid-19 inflammation. The role of neutrophils in Covid-19 needs to be studied further. Different immunoregulatory molecules and pathways presented here (TNF Receptor, IL8, CXCR1, CXCR2, ADAM10, GPR84, MME-neprilysin, ANPEP, LAP3) are druggable and might be therapeutic targets in efforts to limit SARS-Cov-2 inflammation in severe clinical cases.
Repurposing of Approved Drugs with Potential to Block SARS-CoV-2 Surface Glycoprotein Interaction with Host Receptor
Authors: Sajib Abu
Published: April 2020

Background: Respiratory transmission is the primary route of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Angiotensin I converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the known receptor of SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein for entry into human cells. A recent study reported absent to low ACE2 promoter activity in a variety of human lung epithelial cell samples. Three bioprojects (PRJEB4337, PRJNA270632 and PRJNA280600) invariably found abundant expression of ACE in human lungs compared to very low expression of ACE2. Methods: In silico tools were applied to assess potential interaction of SARS-CoV-2 surface spike protein with human ACE as well as predict the drugs that may block SARS-CoV-2 interaction with host receptor. Results: Although it is not obvious from the primary sequence alignment of ACE2 and its homolog ACE (also known as ACE1), comparison of X-ray crystallographic structures show striking similarity in the regions of these proteins which is known (for ACE2) to interact with the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Critical amino acids that mediate interaction with the viral spike protein in ACE2 are organized in the same order in ACE. In silico analyses predicts comparable interaction of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein with ACE2 and ACE. In addition, this study predicts and selects already approved drugs from a list of 1263, which may interfere with the binding of SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein to ACE2 and/or ACE.
How Essential Kinesin-5 Becomes Non-Essential: Force Balance and Microtubule Dynamics Matter
Authors: Yukawa Masashi , Teratani Yasuhiro , Toda Takashi
Published: April 2020

The bipolar mitotic spindle drives accurate chromosome segregation by capturing the kinetochore and pulling each set of sister chromatids to the opposite poles. In this review, we describe recent findings on the multiple pathways leading to bipolar spindle formation in fission yeast and discuss these results from a broader perspective. Roles of four mitotic kinesins (Kinesin-5, Kinesin-6, Kinesin-12 and Kinesin-14) in spindle assembly are depicted, and how a group of microtubule-associated proteins, sister chromatid cohesion and the kinetochore collaborates with these motors is shown. We have paid special attention to the molecular pathways that render otherwise essential Kinesin-5 to become non-essential: how cells build bipolar mitotic spindles without the need for Kinesin-5 and where the alternate forces come from are considered. We highlight the force balance for bipolar spindle assembly and explain how outward and inward forces are generated by various ways, in which the proper fine-tuning of microtubule dynamics plays a crucial role. Overall, these new pathways have illuminated remarkable plasticity and adaptability of spindle mechanics. Kinesin molecules are regarded as prospective targets for cancer chemotherapy and many specific inhibitors have been developed. However, several hurdles have arisen against their clinical implementation. This review provides insight into possible strategies to overcome these challenges.
Urinary Tract Infection in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: An Overview
Authors: Gomes de Medeiros Junior Washigton Luiz , Demore Caio Cesar , Peres Mazaro Larissa , Nascimento de Souza Matheus Fellipe , Fiuza Parolin Laura , Melo Luiz Henrique , Werka Junior Claudio Rogerio , Magno Gonçalves Marcus Vinicius
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating, chronic, inflammatory and autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) with axonal degeneration, presenting a progressive and variable course. MS patients usually have complications, such as bladder dysfunction, presence of urinary symptoms and Urinary Tract infection (UTI), which is one of the three most common non-neurological complications in MS patients. Objective: Analyze the most diverse aspects of UTI in MS patients, focusing on risk factors, prevalence, hospitalization and mortality rates of UTIs in this group. Methods: A non-systematic review of articles published on PubMed in the last 10 years with the search terms "Urinary Tract Infection" AND "Multiple Sclerosis". Discussion: MS patients have a high UTI prevalence, mainly due to the occurrence of urinary disorders in these patients. The most common symptoms of UTI in MS patients are urinary urgency, polyuria, nocturia, urinary retention, and incontinence. Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the most found organisms and treatment is based on antibiotic therapy. Moreover, UTIs can precipitate outbreaks, worsen the disease, causing more damage and a severe neurological condition deterioration. Therefore, UTIs in this group are associated with a high hospitalizations rate and a high mortality rate. Conclusion: UTI represents a great risk and concern in MS patients. The high prevalence, hospitalization rate and mortality rate of UTI in MS is worrying, such as the cause-consequence relationship between UTIs and the use of corticosteroids in outbreaks. Therefore, it is important to be aware of a UTI in this group to make early diagnoses, adequate management, and new infections prevention. Thus, further studies are needed to thoroughly analyze each nuance of this important comorbidity for MS patients.
Pandemic and the Dynamics of SEIR Model: Case COVID-19
Authors: Kamrujjaman Md , Ghosh Uttam , Islam Md. Shahidul
Published: April 2020

Rapidly spreading disease, COVID-19 is classified as the human-to-human transmission-able disease and currently is a pandemic in the Globe. In this paper, we propose conceptual mathematical models for COVID-19 outbreak and it's control measurement; quarantine, hospitalization and the effect of panic and anxiety. In this situation, mathematical models are a important tool to employ an effective strategy in order to fight against this pandemic. We establish the positivity and boundedness of solutions, local and global stability analysis of equilibria to examine its epidemiological relevance. To validate the model and estimating the important model parameters and prediction about the disease, we consider the real cases of Italy from $15^{th}$ Feb to $13^{th} $ April 2020. In a series of graphical map, we have presented the comparative study to estimate the current scenarios and to predict the control measurement time boundary of the outbreak.
Characterising urban green space density and footpath-accessibility in models of BMI
Authors: Carthy Philip , Lyons Sean , Nolan Anne
Published: April 2020

Background: While exposure to urban green spaces has been associated with various physical health benefits, the evidence linking these spaces to lower BMI, particularly among older people, is mixed. We ask whether footpath availability, generally unobserved in the existing literature, may mediate exposure to urban green space and help explain this volatility in results. The aim of this study is to add to the literature on the association between urban green space and BMI by considering alternative measures of urban green space that incorporate measures of footpath availability. Methods: We conduct a cross-sectional study combining data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing and detailed land use information. We proxy respondents’ exposure to urban green spaces at their residential addresses using street-side and area buffersthat take account of the presence of footpaths. Generalised linear models are used to test the association between exposure to several measures of urban green space and BMI. Results: Relative to the third quintile, exposure to the lowest quintile of urban green space, as measured within a 1600m footpath-accessible network buffer, is associated with slightly higher BMI (marginal effect: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.16-1.44). The results, however, are not robust to small changes in how green space is measured and no statistically significant association between urban green spaces and BMI is found under other variants of our regression model. Conclusion: The relationship between urban green spaces and BMI among older adults is highly sensitive to the characterisation of local green space. Our results suggest that there are some unobserved factors other than footpath availability that mediate the relationship between urban green spaces and weight status.