bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubungan Antara Tingkat Pendidikan dan Pengetahuan Ibu Nifas dengan Pemberian Asi Eksklusif di Puskesmas Batua Makassar 2019
Authors: M.Keb Siti Husaidah , Amru Desi Ernita , . Sumarni
Published: June 2020

The use of exclusive breast milk decreases, due to lack of knowledge and awareness of postpartum mothers, besides the increased promotion of formula milk which causes postpartum mothers to tend to give formula milk. This study aims to determine the relationship between education level and knowledge of puerperal women with exclusive breastfeeding in Batua Puskesmas in 2019. The research design used was cross sectional by taking a sample using Purposive Sampling technique used in 50 respondents at the Pusua Batua Makassar Puskesmas during April to June 2019. Data obtained from questionnaires and processed. The results showed that the Chi Square statistical test between the level of puerperal education with exclusive breastfeeding, obtained p value of 0.304 with (α = 0.05), concluded that there was no relationship between the level of puerperal education with exclusive breastfeeding while Chi Square statistical test between the level of knowledge of puerperal women with exclusive breastfeeding, obtained p value of 0.004 with (α = 0.05), it can be concluded that there is a relationship between the level of knowledge of puerperal women with exclusive breastfeeding. Based on the results of the above research, puerperal mothers should add information and knowledge through various mass media to prepare themselves to face the role of motherhood, so that babies get exclusive breast milk for up to 6 months.
Pengetahuan dan Sikap Tentang Tanda Bahaya Dalam Kehamilan Serta Keaktifan Ibu Dalam Kelas Ibu Hamil
Authors: Nurfatimah Nurfatimah , Fiarsi Lisa , Longgupa Lisda Widianti , Ramadhan Kadar
Published: June 2020

The implementation of pregnancy class in the Puskesmas Mapane in Poso Regency is still ineffective because it is done every three months. The purpose of this study to find out knowledge and attitudes about danger signs in pregnancy and the activeness of mothers in classes of pregnant women in the working area of Puskesmas Mapane in Poso Regency. Research methods using cross-sectional design. The population in this study were second-trimester and third-trimester pregnant women in the working area of Puskesmas Mapane, 96 mothers. The sample in this study were 77 people who determined by simple random sampling. Chi square test is used to analyze the relationship between knowledge and attitudes with maternal activity in pregnant mother classes.The resultsshowed that from 77 people, there were 84.4% pregnant women who were not active in pregnancy class and pregnant women who had good knowledge and positive attitudes about the danger signs of pregnancy as many as 73.9%. The conclusion is that the activeness of the mother in the class of pregnant women is not very influential in increasing the mother's knowledge about the danger signs of pregnancy. Suggestions are expected to the Puskesmas so that they can better provide information and motivation to pregnant women to take pregnancy class programs in their working areas.
Efektivitas Ekstrak Teh Hijau (Camellia sinensis L.) terhadap Penurunan Kadar Glukosa Darah Puasa Tikus Wistar (Rattus norvegicus) yang diInduksi Aloksan
Authors: . Hafshah , Simanjuntak Kristina
Published: June 2020

The sufferers of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in Indonesia is the highest with fourth number in the world, with a mortality rate of 1.2 million in 2012. Because of it, DM research using antihyperglycemic green tea is needed. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of green tea extracts on decreasing fasting blood glucose (KGDP) levels in alloxan-induced white male Wistar rats. Samples were 30 male rats, aged 8-12 weeks, weight ± 200 grams. Rats were grouped into 6 groups with the first group (K1) as a control, the second group (K2) induced alloxan, the third group (K3) induced alloxan with glibenclamide, the fourth group (K4), the fifth group (K5), and the sixth group (K6) induced alloxan with green tea extract as the treatment with dose of green tea extract, 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 800 mg/kg. The first, FBG level examination is done 3 days after induction of alloxan using a glucometer. Giving green tea extract was given for 16 days orally, then FBG level re-examined from the tail of rats. One Way ANOVA Test Results, there is the effectiveness of green tea extract on reducing FBG level (p = 0,000). The post hoc Bonferroni test showed that giving 800 mg/kg of green tea extract was the best dose in reducing KGDP close to normal (p = 0,000).
Analisis Pelaksanaan Komunikasi Informasi Edukasi (KIE) Kesehatan Reproduksi dan Seksual pada Calon Pengantin di Kota Bukittinggi Tahun 2019
Authors: . Darmayanti , . Supiyah , Mesalina Rosa
Published: June 2020

The reproductive and Sexual health information Communication (KIE) program for bride couple is a program that is implemented to prepare for family life. However, the implementation of KIE reproductive and sexual health for bride couple has not been carried out wording the standards caused by various factors in both the input, process, output aspects. The purpose of this research is to know the implementation of the program KIE Reproductive health and sexual bride couple. This type of research is qualitative research with a phenomenological approach. Research conducted in Bukittinggi with 48 informants. Sampling technique with purposive sampling. The instrument used guided interview guidelines conducted with In-depth interview and focus group discussion covering aspects of input, process, the output of the program KIE Reproductive and sexual health. Data is analyzed by textual analysis and thematic analysis. The thematic analysis relates to the absence of local policies, limited use of media, availability and limited Human Resources qualification, unstandardized implementation mechanisms, coverage of bride couple that accept the unmeasured KIE services. Required a regulation governing the implementation of the reproductive and sexual health of the bride couple for more positive impact on both short and long-term maternal and child health.
PROCESSOS DE RACIOCÍNIO MATEMÁTICO NA RESOLUÇÃO DE TAREFAS EXPLORATÓRIAS NO 3º ANO DE ESCOLARIDADE
Authors: Araman Eliane Maria de Oliveira , Serrazina Maria de Lurdes
Published: June 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar processos de raciocínio matemático evidenciados por dois pares de alunos do 3º ano de escolaridade de uma escola pública da periferia de Lisboa ao resolverem uma sequência de três tarefas exploratórias. A fundamentação teórica aborda o raciocíniomatemático, nomeadamente quanto à sua definição, seus aspectos estruturais e processos. O estudo segue uma abordagem qualitativa e interpretativa e insere-se num projeto mais amplo que utiliza umametodologia de investigação baseada em design. Os dados foram recolhidos por observação participante apoiada por gravação em vídeo dos pares ao realizarem as tarefas, bem como dos registros escritos dos alunos na resolução das tarefas. O processo de análise evidenciou indícios de raciocíniomatemático sustentado pelos processos de formular conjecturas, generalizar, validar e justificar.
PARA COMPOR HISTÓRIAS: UMA ANÁLISE DOCUMENTAL SOBRE A FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES DE MATEMÁTICA NO RIO GRANDE DO NORTE (1920 a 1980)
Authors: Morais Marcelo Bezerra de
Published: June 2020

Neste artigo, temos a intenção de apresentar uma versão histórica sobre a formação dos professores que ensinavam matemática no Rio Grande do Norte, com foco nos processos formativos que ocorreram antes e durante o período de criação dos quatro mais antigos cursos superiores que habilitavam professores em Matemática nesse Estado – criados entre 1966 e 1980. Para isso, apresentamos os contextos e referenciais que fundamentam a operação historiográfica que possibilitou esse texto, bem como nossas opções teórico-metodológicas que resultaram na análise documental aqui descrita e na narrativa histórica apresentada. Essa pesquisa, inserida em uma proposta de amplo espectro do Grupo História Oral e Educação Matemática, apresenta como apontamentos a forte carência de profissionais, a urgência de cursos formadores e os contextos históricos nos quais os cursos em nível superior vão sendo criados e passam a atender essas demandas.
O MOVIMENTO DA MATEMÁTICA MODERNA NO ENSINO PRIMÁRIO: UM “ESTADO DO CONHECIMENTO” NO BRASIL
Authors: Godoi Anieli Joana de , Zimmer Iara , Costa David Antonio da
Published: June 2020

Este artigo objetiva apresentar um “estado do conhecimento” a partir de teses que articulam a aritmética com o Movimento da Matemática Moderna e a História da Educação Matemática no ensino primário brasileiro no período de 1950 a 1970. Trata-se de resultados parciais de uma pesquisaem nível de mestrado desenvolvida no GHEMAT Santa Catarina. Para tanto, mobilizam-se conceitos de “estado do conhecimento”. O corpus da pesquisa são teses que abordam o ensino de aritmética publicadas do ano de 2008 até 2018 e disponíveis no banco de teses e dissertações da CAPES.Apresentam-se discussões teóricas metodológicas, mapeamento das teses em questão, apresentação e discussão dos resultados, além da Matemática Moderna vista sob a lente das teses. Como resultado, caracterizam-se momentos marcantes do Movimento nas escolas de ensino primário brasileiras no período, dentre eles, a apropriação da psicologia de Jean Piaget e dos ideais de Zoltan Paul Dienes, a inserção da Teoria de Conjuntos e a participação ativa do professor Osvaldo Sangiorgi, de modo quese pôde observar como a escola se transformou, com novos ideais e uma nova maneira de ensinar aritmética para as crianças.
A UTILIZAÇÃO DE JOGOS ESTRATÉGICOS COMO FONTE PARA REFLEXÃO SOBRE O ENSINO DE MATEMÁTICA
Authors: Silva Angélica da Fontoura Garcia , Miranda Mirtes de Souza , Pietropaolo Ruy Cesar
Published: June 2020

Este artigo tem como propósito apresentar as análises de reflexões realizadas por professores participantes de um grupo de estudos quando discutiam e vivenciavam possibilidades de trabalho com jogos estratégicos. A investigação, de natureza qualitativa, ocorreu num grupo de estudos constituído no interior de uma escola pública na zona norte de São Paulo – Brasil. A coleta de dados se deu por meio de gravações em áudio e vídeo, observações de aula e depoimentos e resoluções dos professores participantes, que lecionavam, entre outras disciplinas, matemática para alunos do 1.º ao 5.º ano do Ensino Fundamental. As análises aqui apresentadas se fundamentam em estudos que discutem o desenvolvimento profissional docente e a utilização dos jogos como recurso didático e pedagógico para o ensino de matemática. Tais estudos demonstraram que refletir com seus pares favorece a (re)significação de conhecimentos pedagógicos, didáticos e de saberes matemáticos, quesão elementos importantes para o desenvolvimento profissional docente. Esses professores ampliaram suas concepções sobre a utilização dos jogos de estratégias para o ensino e para a aprendizagem da matemática.
O ENGAJAMENTO EM UM GRUPO DE ESTUDOS COMO FATOR DE MOTIVAÇÃO PARA APRENDER MATEMÁTICA: UMA PESQUISA COM ESTUDANTES DE PEDAGOGIA DE UMA INSTITUIÇÃO PÚBLICA DE MINAS GERAIS
Authors: Tolentino Jucileide das Dores Lucas , Ferreira Ana Cristina
Published: June 2020

No presente artigo, investiga-se o papel do engajamento na motivação para aprender Matemática em um grupo de alunas do curso de Pedagogia de uma universidade pública do interior de Minas Gerais. O foco das atividades do grupo estava na construção de conhecimentos matemáticos e na autorregulação da aprendizagem. O estudo se fundamentou em algumas noções centrais da Teoria Social Cognitiva (em particular, a motivação para aprender). A metodologia, de abordagem qualitativa, envolveu: observação de aulas de duas disciplinas voltadas para o ensino de Matemática,pertencentes ao referido curso; questionários e registros produzidos pelas participantes do grupo de estudos, bem como gravações de reuniões do mesmo. Os resultados evidenciam que tanto a natureza do relacionamento estabelecido entre as participantes e a pesquisadora (caracterizado pelo respeito mútuo e confiança) quanto a dinâmica dos encontros (com momentos de retomada das atividades realizadas em sala de aula e momentos de reflexão sobre a própria aprendizagem) favoreceram oengajamento nas tarefas propostas no grupo de estudos. E esse engajamento contribuiu para fortalecer a motivação para aprender Matemática das participantes da investigação.
The Attitudes About Law Number 4207 Among Health Administration Students
Authors: Yilmaz Fatma Ozlem , Koc Esra Meltem , Askin Meryem , Kahveci Rabia , Ozata Musa
Published: June 2020

Aim: ‘National Tobacco Control Program’ had developed in Turkey by the Ministry of Health in 2009 with amendment of Law 4207 and all closed places became smoke-free. The National Media Campaign has been initiated with the “Smoke Free Air-Zone” slogan for raising public awareness. The aim of our study is to determine the smoking status and attitude of Health Management students about Law 4207 in a university in Turkey, four years after the application of Smoke Free Air-Zone.

Methods: In this study we used a questionnaire with 33 questions, which was developed by researchers and Fagerstrom Nicotine Dependent Test to obtain the addiction level of the smokers.

Results: Sixty-two percent of 244 students were female. 3.3% were ex-smokers and 10.7% were active smokers. 5.2% of females and 19.3% of males were smoking. 87.5% of smokers think smoking habbit is harmful. 41.4% of the students thought that Law 4207 was generally accepted by the society.

Conclusion: Reducing the smoking prevalence and increasing the awareness about the Law 4207 among health administrators is very important for the imlementation of health policy. So our research has an importance to highlight this subject and increase the awareness of the campaign.

Keywords: administrators, Law 4207, smoking cessation, tobacco use cessation
Blood Analysis Requests of Patients’ and Clinical Reflections in Primary Care
Authors: Gamsizkan Zerrin , Sungur Mehmet Ali , Çayır Yasemin
Published: June 2020

Aim: The aim of the study is to determine the factors that may affect the demands of patients who come with the request to have a blood test without any chronic disease or a planned examination check.

Methods: The data of this descriptive, cross-sectional study, were collected with a questionnaire that was prepared to examine the opinions of the patients who claim to have a blood test by coming to the family health center without any complaints. Patients over 18 years of age, who did not have any chronic disease and had no scheduled examination appointments were included in the study.

Results: A total of 278 patients who wanted to have a blood test within the 6-months period were included in the study. Female patients who wanted to have a blood test were significantly more than male patients. When we look at the causes of patients who wanted to have a blood test; 61.2% (n=170) patients stated that they are concerned about their health and 6.1% (n=17) stated that they were affected by media warnings. There was no significant relationship between the frequency of blood test requests of patients and their age, gender, education, and general health status.

Conclusion: Patients with high expectations and anxiety may be more willing to perform blood tests at inappropriate intervals. Family physicians, whose primary role is preventive medicine, have consultancy and information duties in order to protect their patients from the risk of over-examination and diagnosis.

Keywords: blood tests, patient, screening, routine diagnostic tests
Eating Behavior of Children and Feeding Attitudes of Mothers
Authors: Yilmaz Gamze
Published: June 2020

Aim: Nutritional problem is one of the most common behavioral problems in children. This study was carried out as a descriptive study in order to determine the eating behavior problems of infants and children and to determine the mothers' feelings, thoughts and approaches about feeding process.

Method: The population of the study consisted of mothers of children aged 9-72 months who applied to the children's outpatient clinics of a state hospital between April and June 2019; and the sample consisted of 217 mothers who agreed to participate in the study and met the selection criteria. Data were collected using the “Mother-Child Information Form”, “Behavioral Pediatric Feeding Assessment Scale” and “Mother’s Attitudes Towards the Feeding Process Scale”. Number, percentage distribution, mean and Pearson correlation analysis were used to evaluate the data.

Results: The total score of the mothers from the Behavioral Pediatric Feeding Assessment Scale was 84.16±16.10; and the total score of the Mother’s Attitudes Towards the Feeding Process Scale was 75.20±17.49. It was found that there was a statistically significant relationship between the mean Behavioral Pediatric Feeding Assessment Scalescore of the mothers and the mean Mother’s Attitudes Towards the Feeding Process Scale score.

Conclusion: The results of the study indicated that children have moderately problematic eating behavior and feeding habits. On the other hand, it shows that mothers have moderate problems related to their attitudes towards feeding process. It was also concluded that, as children's eating behavior problems increased, mothers' negative attitudes towards feeding process also increased.

Keywords: mothers, feeding, attitude, child, feeding behavior
High-Mountain Lakes, Indicators of Global Change: Ecological Characterization and Environmental Pressures
Authors: Pastorino Paolo , Prearo Marino
Published: June 2020

Though mountain lakes are generally much less influenced by human activities than other habitats, global and local anthropogenic threats can alter their natural condition. The most alarming threats are climate change, water exploitation and abstraction, alien species introduction, and the medium-long range atmospheric transport of contaminates. Moreover, tourism and mountain farming are two other major sources of organic pollutants that can pose a threat to local aquatic biodiversity. Papers submitted to this Special Issue should be original contributions, with a focus on ecological and morphological characterization, environmental pressures (i.e., alien species introduction, environmental contaminates), and the use of bioindicators/tracers to inform adequate management plans.
Predictive Adaptive Filter for Reducing Total Harmonics Distortion in PV Systems
Authors: Alhafadhi Liqaa , Teh Jiashen , Lai Ching-Ming , Salem Mohamed
Published: June 2020

This paper presents a new method for reducing the total harmonic distortion (THD) of photovoltaic (PV) systems by using an adaptive filter based on a predictive model. Instead of reducing the produced THD at each stage of the PV system, a one-step process is implemented at the end stage. The connection topology of the adaptive filter is similar to normal active and passive filters. The main difference is its ability to adjust the filtering coefficients while others cannot. The proposed method is applied to a single-phase standalone PV system by adopting least mean square (LMS), normalized LMS (NLMS) and leaky LMS algorithms to verify the validity of the proposed method. Various values of filter length and step size are evaluated, and results indicate that the proposed method can reduce THD in the current signal of the PV system significantly by using all of the mentioned algorithms. Different step sizes and filter lengths directly influence the effectiveness of the THD reduction, with small step sizes and long filters being the most effective. Amongst the algorithms, NLMS reduces THD the most, and LMS reaches the peak current value the fastest.
Examining the Association between Trauma Exposure and Work-Related Outcomes in Women Veterans
Authors: Sienkiewicz Megan E. , Amalathas Aneline , Iverson Katherine M. , Smith Brian N. , Mitchell Karen S.
Published: June 2020

Women veterans have high rates of trauma exposure, including military sexual trauma (MST), which are associated with numerous health and psychosocial consequences. However, associations between trauma history and work-related outcomes are less well-characterized. We examined whether military-related and non-military trauma types were associated with work-related outcomes and whether posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression symptoms mediated these associations. A total of 369 women veterans completed up to two mailed surveys, 12 months apart, assessing trauma exposure, depression and PTSD symptoms, occupational functioning, and employment status (unemployed, out of the workforce, employed). Participants reported high rates of trauma exposure. Nearly half (47.5%) were out of the workforce. Military-related trauma, military sexual assault, and adult sexual assault were associated with worse occupational functioning. Only PTSD symptoms mediated associations between trauma types and occupational functioning. No trauma types were significantly directly associated with employment status; however, PTSD and depression symptoms mediated associations between trauma types and being out of the workforce. Findings can inform screening for military trauma exposures, mental health, and work-related needs among women veterans.
Neurodevelopmental Trajectories of Preterm Infants of Italian Native-Born and Migrant Mothers and Role of Neonatal Feeding
Authors: Gibertoni Dino , Sansavini Alessandra , Savini Silvia , Locatelli Chiara , Ancora Gina , Perrone Enrica , Ialonardi Magda , Rucci Paola , Fantini Maria Pia , Faldella Giacomo , Corvaglia Luigi
Published: June 2020

There is evidence that preterm infants of migrant mothers are at a higher risk of adverse perinatal outcomes than those of native-born mothers, and that human milk feeding is beneficial to infants’ neurodevelopment. Using the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) to classify mother’s country of origin, we investigated whether type of neonatal feeding (human milk vs. mixed milk vs. exclusive formula milk) affected preterm newborn neurodevelopment varying across different HDI categories (Italian native-born vs. high HDI migrant vs. low HDI migrant) up to 2 years of age. Neurodevelopment of 530 infants born in Italy at ≤32 weeks of gestational age and/or weighing <1500 g was measured at 3-, 6-, 9-, 12-, 18-, and 24-months corrected age (CA) using the revised Griffiths Mental Development Scale 0–2 years. The trajectories of the general developmental quotient and its five subscales were estimated using mixed models. At 24-months CA only preterm infants of low HDI migrant mothers and fed exclusive formula milk showed moderate neurodevelopment impairment, with lower developmental trajectories of eye-hand coordination, performance, and personal-social abilities. Migrant mothers from low HDI countries and their preterm infants should be targeted by specific programs supporting maternal environment, infant development, and human or mixed milk neonatal feeding. Future research should focus on a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which type of feeding and mother migrant conditions interact in influencing preterm infants’ neurodevelopment.
Validity of Tier 1 Modelling Tools and Impacts on Exposure Assessments within REACH Registrations—ETEAM Project, Validation Studies and Consequences
Authors: Schlueter Urs , Tischer Martin
Published: June 2020

In the last years, the evaluation and validation of exposure modelling tools for inhalation exposure assessment at workplaces received new and highly increased attention by different stakeholders. One important study in this regard is the ETEAM (Evaluation of Tier 1 Exposure Assessment Models) project that evaluated exposure assessment tools under the European REACH regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), (but next to the ETEAM project—as a project publicly funded by the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA)—it is a rather new development that research groups from universities in Europe, but also internationally, investigated this issue. These other studies focused not only on REACH tier 1 tools but also investigated other tools and aspects of tool validity. This paper tries to summarise the major findings of studies that explored the different issues of tool validity by focusing on the scientific outcomes and the exposure on the science community. On the other hand, this publication aims to provide guidance on the choice and use of tools, addressing the needs of tool users. The consequences of different stakeholders under REACH are discussed from the results of the validation studies. The major stakeholders are: (1) REACH registrants or applicants for REACH authorisations, meaning those companies, consortia or associations who are subject to REACH; (2) Evaluating authorities within the scope of REACH, meaning the ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) secretariat and committees, but also the competent authorities of the member states or the European Union; (3) Developers of the different models and tools; (4) Users of the different models and tools.
Terpinen-4-ol as an Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Agent against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Cordeiro Laísa , Figueiredo Pedro , Souza Helivaldo , Sousa Aleson , Andrade-Júnior Francisco , Medeiros Daianne , Nóbrega Jefferson , Silva Daniele , Martins Evandro , Barbosa-Filho José , Lima Edeltrudes
Published: June 2020

Staphylococcus aureus is able to rapidly develop mechanisms of resistance to various drugs and to form strong biofilms, which makes it necessary to develop new antibacterial drugs. The essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia is used as an antibacterial, a property believed to be mainly due to the presence of terpinen-4-ol. Based on this, the objective of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of terpinen-4-ol against S. aureus. The Minimal Inhibitory and Minimal Bactericidal Concentrations (MIC and MBC) of terpinen-4-ol were determined, and the effect of its combination with antibacterial drugs as well as its activity against S. aureus biofilms were evaluated. In addition, an in silico analysis of its pharmacokinetic parameters and a molecular docking analysis were performed. Terpinen-4-ol presented a MIC of 0.25% (v/v) and an MBC of 0.5% (v/v) (bactericidal action); its association with antibacterials was also effective. Terpinen-4-ol has good antibiofilm activity, and the in silico results indicated adequate absorption and distribution of the molecule in vivo. Molecular docking indicated that penicillin-binding protein 2a is a possible target of terpinen-4-ol in S. aureus. This work highlights the good potential of terpinen-4-ol as an antibacterial product and provides support for future pharmacological studies of this molecule, aiming at its therapeutic application.
Rationally Designed Antibodies as Research Tools to Study the Structure–Toxicity Relationship of Amyloid-β Oligomers
Authors: Limbocker Ryan , Mannini Benedetta , Cataldi Rodrigo , Chhangur Shianne , Wright Aidan K. , Kreiser Ryan P. , Albright J. Alex , Chia Sean , Habchi Johnny , Sormanni Pietro , Kumita Janet R. , Ruggeri Francesco S. , Dobson Christopher M. , Chiti Fabrizio , Aprile Francesco A. , Vendruscolo Michele
Published: June 2020

Alzheimer’s disease is associated with the aggregation of the amyloid-β peptide (Aβ), resulting in the deposition of amyloid plaques in brain tissue. Recent scrutiny of the mechanisms by which Aβ aggregates induce neuronal dysfunction has highlighted the importance of the Aβ oligomers of this protein fragment. Because of the transient and heterogeneous nature of these oligomers, however, it has been challenging to investigate the detailed mechanisms by which these species exert cytotoxicity. To address this problem, we demonstrate here the use of rationally designed single-domain antibodies (DesAbs) to characterize the structure–toxicity relationship of Aβ oligomers. For this purpose, we use Zn2+-stabilized oligomers of the 40-residue form of Aβ (Aβ40) as models of brain Aβ oligomers and two single-domain antibodies (DesAb18-24 and DesAb34-40), designed to bind to epitopes at residues 18–24 and 34–40 of Aβ40, respectively. We found that the DesAbs induce a change in structure of the Zn2+-stabilized Aβ40 oligomers, generating a simultaneous increase in their size and solvent-exposed hydrophobicity. We then observed that these increments in both the size and hydrophobicity of the oligomers neutralize each other in terms of their effects on cytotoxicity, as predicted by a recently proposed general structure–toxicity relationship, and observed experimentally. These results illustrate the use of the DesAbs as research tools to investigate the biophysical and cytotoxicity properties of Aβ oligomers.
Radio-Frequency/Microwave Gas Sensors Using Conducting Polymer
Authors: Jang Chorom , Park Jin-Kwan , Yun Gi-Ho , Choi Hyang Hee , Lee Hee-Jo , Yook Jong-Gwan
Published: June 2020

In this review, the advances in radio-frequency (RF) /microwave chemical gas sensors using conducting polymers are discussed. First, the introduction of various conducting polymers is described. Only polyaniline (PANi), polypyrrole (PPy) and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), which are mainly used for gas sensors in RF/microwave region, are focused in this review. Sensing mechanism of the three conducting polymers are presented. And the RF/microwave characteristics and RF/microwave applications of the three conducting polymers are discussed. Moreover, the gas sensors using conducting polymers in RF/microwave frequencies are described. Finally, the the challenges and the prospects of the next generation of the RF/microwave based chemical sensors for wireless applications are proposed.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Cr2Nb Phase and Properties of Spark Plasma Sintered Cu-2Cr-1Nb Alloy
Authors: Lv Xueqian , Liu Zuming , Lei Ting , Li Quan , Ren Yake , Zhou Xu , Zhang Zejie
Published: June 2020

Achieving a good match between strength and conductivity is a challenge of the development of the high-performance Cu-Cr-Nb alloy for aerospace and fusion energy. The effect of heat treatment on Cr2Nb phase, strength and conductivity of spark plasma sintered (SPSed) Cu-2Cr-1Nb (at%) alloy was investigated. The results illustrated that Cr2Nb phase of Cu-2Cr-1Nb alloy can be regulated by heat treatment, multi-scale Cr2Nb phase with sizes of 0.10–0.50 μm, 30–100 nm and less than 30 nm was obtained, and the strength and conductivity were significantly increased after heat treatment at 500 °C for 2 h, the room temperature tensile strength and conductivity were 332 MPa and 86.7% IACS, 2.5% and 34.8% higher than those of as-SPSed alloy; the tensile strength at 700 °C was 76 MPa. Increasing heat treatment temperature and time, the tensile strength of the alloy was reduced by 1.5%, 4.3% and 12.3% after heat treatment at 500 °C, 700 °C and 950 °C for 72 h. The good match between strength and conductivity of Cu-Cr-Nb alloy was obtained by reducing the content of alloying elements (Cr and Nb) and microstructure regulation. This approach can be used to prepare structural/functional materials with excellent strength and conductivity.
Assessment of Rational Design of Self-Compacting Concrete Incorporating Fly Ash and Limestone Powder in Terms of Long-Term Durability
Authors: Reiterman Pavel , Jaskulski Roman , Kubissa Wojciech , Holčapek Ondřej , Keppert Martin
Published: June 2020

Self-compaction concrete (SCC) is ranked among the main technological innovations of the last decades. Hence, it introduces a suitable possibility for further utilization of supplementary cementitious materials (SCM) in terms of sustainable development. The aim of the work is the assessment of a new approach to binder design, which takes into consideration the activity of the used mineral additive. The proposed approach, which allows a systematic design of a binding system with varied properties of the used mineral additive, was studied on ternary blends consisting of Portland cement (PC), limestone powder and fly ash (FA). The verification was conducted on SCC mixtures in terms of their workability, mechanical properties and the most attention was paid to long-term durability. The long-term durability was assessed on the basis of shrinkage measurement, freeze-thaw resistance and permeability tests including initial surface absorption, chloride migration, water penetration and an accelerated carbonation test, which was compared with the evolution of carbonation front in normal conditions. The durability of studied mixtures was evaluated by using durability loss index, which allow general assessment on the basis of multiple parameters. The carbonation resistance had a dominant importance on the final durability performance of studied mixtures. The experimental program revealed that the proposed design method is reliable only in terms of properties in fresh state and mechanical performance, which were similar with control mixture. Despite suitable results of freeze-thaw resistance and shrinkage, an increasing amount of fly ash in terms of the new design concept led to a fundamental increase of permeability and thus to decay of long-term durability. Acceptable properties were achieved for the lowest dosage of fly ash.
Controlling the Size and Pattern Pitch of Ni(OH)2 Nanoclusters Using Dip-Pen Nanolithography to Improve Water Oxidation
Authors: Shamish Zorik , Zohar Moshe , Shamir Dror , Burg Ariela
Published: June 2020

We use dip-pen nanolithography to accurately pattern Ni(OH)2 nanoclusters on a metachemical surface with an exceptionally large surface area. The distance between the nanoclusters can be manipulated to control the oxygen-evolution reaction current and overpotential, thereby improving the efficiency of the water-splitting process while using minute amounts of the catalyst.
Subwavelength Silicon Nanoblocks for Directional Emission Manipulation
Authors: Zhang Tianyue , Li Xuewei , Xu Jian , Zhang Xiaoming , Deng Zi-Lan , Li Xiangping
Published: June 2020

Manipulating the light emission direction and boosting its directivity have essential importance in integrated nanophotonic devices. Here, we theoretically propose a single dielectric silicon nanoblock as an efficient, multifunctional and ultracompact all-dielectric nanoantenna to direct light into a preferential direction. Unidirectional scattering of a plane wave as well as switchable directive emission fed by a localized emitter are demonstrated within the nanoantenna. The high directionalities are revealed to originate from a variety of mechanisms that can coexist within a single nanoblock, which contribute to the far-field radiation patterns of the outcoming light, thanks to the wealth of multipolar electric and magnetic resonances. The efficient beam redirections are also observed, which are sensitive to the local configurations of the emitter antenna coupled system. The designed antenna, with extreme geometry simplicity, ultracompact and low-loss features, could be favorable for highly sensitive sensing as well as applications in optical nanocircuits.
Food Addiction among Female Patients Seeking Treatment for an Eating Disorder: Prevalence and Associated Factors
Authors: Fauconnier Marie , Rousselet Morgane , Brunault Paul , Thiabaud Elsa , Lambert Sylvain , Rocher Bruno , Challet-Bouju Gaëlle , Grall-Bronnec Marie
Published: June 2020

The concept of “food addiction” (FA) has aroused much focus because of evidence for similarities between overeating and substance use disorders (SUDs). However, few studies have explored this concept among the broad spectrum of eating disorders (ED), especially in anorexia nervosa (AN). This study aimed to assess FA prevalence in ED female patients and to determine its associated factors. We recruited a total of 195 adult women with EDs from an ED treatment center. The prevalence of FA diagnosis (Yale Food Addiction Scale) in the whole ED sample was 83.6%; AN restrictive type (AN-R), 61.5%; AN binge-eating/purging type (AN-BP), 87.9%; bulimia nervosa (BN), 97.6%; and binge-eating disorder (BED), 93.3%. The most frequently met criteria of FA were “clinically significant impairment or distress in relation to food”, “craving” and “persistent desire or repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut down”. An FA diagnosis was independently associated with three variables: presence of recurrent episodes of binge eating, ED severity, and lower interoceptive awareness. In showing an overlap between ED and FA, this study allows for considering EDs, and AN-R in particular, from an “addictive point of view”, and thus for designing therapeutic management that draws from those proposed for addictive disorders.
Wearable Fixation Device for a Magnetically Controllable Therapeutic Agent Carrier: Application to Cartilage Repair
Authors: Lee Kyungmin , Go Gwangjun , Yoo Ami , Kang Byungjeon , Choi Eunpyo , Park Jong-Oh , Kim Chang-Sei
Published: June 2020

Recently, significant research efforts have been devoted toward the development of magnetically controllable drug delivery systems, however, drug fixation after targeting remains a challenge hindering long-term therapeutic efficacy. To overcome this issue, we present a wearable therapeutic fixation device for fixing magnetically controllable therapeutic agent carriers (MCTACs) at defect sites and its application to cartilage repair using stem cell therapeutics. The developed device comprises an array of permanent magnets based on the Halbach array principle and a wearable band capable of wrapping the target body. The design of the permanent magnet array, in terms of the number of magnets and array configuration, was determined through univariate search optimization and 3D simulation. The device was fabricated for a given rat model and yielded a strong magnetic flux density (exceeding 40 mT) in the region of interest that was capable of fixing the MCTAC at the desired defect site. Through in-vitro and in-vivo experiments, we successfully demonstrated that MCTACs, both a stem cell spheroid and a micro-scaffold for cartilage repair, could be immobilized at defect sites. This research is expected to advance precise drug delivery technology based on MCTACs, enabling subject-specific routine life therapeutics. Further studies involving the proposed wearable fixation device will be conducted considering prognostics under actual clinical settings.
Chitosan Derivatives with Mucoadhesive and Antimicrobial Properties for Simultaneous Nanoencapsulation and Extended Ocular Release Formulations of Dexamethasone and Chloramphenicol Drugs
Authors: Karava Aikaterini , Lazaridou Maria , Nanaki Stavroula , Michailidou Georgia , Christodoulou Evi , Kostoglou Margaritis , Iatrou Hermis , Bikiaris Dimitrios N.
Published: June 2020

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of neat chitosan (CS) and its derivatives with 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid (AAMPS) and [2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]dimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl)ammonium hydroxide (MEDSP) as appropriate nanocarriers for the simultaneous ocular administration of dexamethasone sodium phosphate (DxP) and chloramphenicol (CHL). The derivatives CS-AAMPS and CS-MEDSP have been synthesized by free-radical polymerization and their structure has been proved by Fourier-Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Both derivatives exhibited low cytotoxicity, enhanced mucoadhesive properties and antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Encapsulation was performed via ionic crosslinking gelation using sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) as the crosslinking agent. Dynamic light scattering measurements (DLS) showed that the prepared nanoparticles had bimodal distribution and sizes ranging from 50–200 nm and 300–800 nm. Drugs were encapsulated in their crystalline (CHL) or amorphous (DexSP) form inside nanoparticles and their release rate was dependent on the used polymer. The CHL dissolution rate was substantially enhanced compared to the neat drug and the release time was extended up to 7 days. The release rate of DexSP was much faster than that of CHL and was prolonged up to 3 days. Drug release modeling unveiled that diffusion is the main release mechanism for both drugs. Both prepared derivatives and their drug-loaded nanoparticles could be used for extended and simultaneous ocular release formulations of DexSP and CHL drugs.
High-Yield Lignocellulosic Fibers from Date Palm Biomass as Reinforcement in Polypropylene Composites: Effect of Fiber Treatment on Composite Properties
Authors: Belgacem Chihaoui , Tarres Quim , Espinach Francesc Xavier , Mutjé Pere , Boufi Sami , Delgado-Aguilar Marc
Published: June 2020

In this work, date palm waste (DPW) stemming from the annual pruning of date palm was used as reinforcing filler in polypropylene (PP) matrix at 40% w/w. Three pre-treatment routes were performed for the DPW, namely (i) defibration, (ii) soft alkali treatment, and (iii) enzymatic treatment, to obtain date palm fibers (DPF) and to investigate the effect of each process on their chemical composition, which will ultimately affect the mechanical properties of the resulting composites. The enzymatic and alkali treatment, combined with maleated polypropylene (MAPP) as a coupling agent, resulted in a composite with higher strength and stiffness than the neat PP. The differences in the reinforcing effect were explained by the change in the morphology of DPF and their chemical surface composition according to the selected treatment of DPW. Enzymatic treatment maximized the tensile strength of the compound as a consequence of an improvement in the interfacial shear strength and the intrinsic resistance of the fibers.
Characterization and Application of Gelatin Films with Pecan Walnut and Shell Extract (Carya illinoiensis)
Authors: Villasante Juliana , Martin-Lujano Anna , Almajano María Pilar
Published: June 2020

Phenolic compounds that come from natural products are a good option for minimizing lipid oxidation. It should be noted that these are not only introduced directly into the food, but also incorporated into edible biofilms. In contact with food, they extend its useful life by avoiding contact with other surface and preventing deterioration air, one of the main objectives. In particular, gelatin is a biopolymer that has a great potential due to its abundance, low cost and good film-forming capacity. The aim of this study has been to design and analyse gelatin films that incorporate bioactive compounds that come from the walnut and a by-product, the walnut shell. The results showed that mechanical and water vapor barrier properties of the developed films varied depending on the concentration of the walnut, shell and synthetic antioxidant. With increasing walnut concentration (15%) the permeability to water vapor (0.414 g·mm/m2·day·Pascal, g·mm/m2·day·Pa) was significantly lower than the control (5.0368 g·mm/m2·day·Pa). Furthermore, in the new films the elongation at the break and Young’s modulus decrease by six times with respect to the control. Films with pure gelatin cannot act as an antioxidant shield to prevent food oxidation, but adding pecan walnut (15% concentration) presents 30% inhibition of the DPPH stable radical. Furthermore, in the DSC, the addition of walnut (15 and 9% concentrations), showed the formation of big crystals; which could improve the thermal stability of gelatin films. The use of new gelatin films has shown good protection against the oxidation of beef patties, increasing the useful lifetime up to nine days, compared to the control (3–4 days), which opens up a big field to the commercialization of meat products with lower quantities of synthetic products.
A Robust q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Einstein Prioritized Aggregation Operators with Application towards MCGDM
Authors: Riaz Muhammad , Athar Farid Hafiz Muhammad , Kalsoom Humaira , Pamučar Dragan , Chu Yu-Ming
Published: June 2020

A q-rung orthopair fuzzy set (q-ROFS) provides a significant mechanism for managing symmetrical aspects in real life circumstances. The renowned distinguishing feature of q-ROFS is that the sum of the qth powers to each membership degree (MD) and non-membership degree (NMD) is less than or equal 1, and therefore the comprehensive uncertain space for q-ROF information is broader. Numerous researchers have suggested several aggregation operators based on q-ROFSs. In order to discuss prioritized relationship in the criterion and a smooth approximation of q-ROF information, we introduced q-rung orthopair fuzzy Einstein prioritized weighted averaging (q-ROFEPWA) operator and q-rung orthopair fuzzy Einstein prioritized weighted geometric (q-ROFEPWG) operator. Additionally, we presented a multi-criteria group decision making (MCGDM) technique based on q-rung orthopair fuzzy Einstein prioritized aggregation operators. These operators can evaluate the possible symmetric roles of the criterion that express the real phenomena of the problem. In order to investigate characteristic of suggested operators regarding the symmetry of attributes and their symmetrical roles under q-ROF information, we presented an application of Einstein prioritized aggregation operators. Finally, by comparing it with some other established representative MCGDM models, an illustrative example is provided to check the feasibility, efficiency and supremacy of the proposed technique.
Development and Evaluation of a duo SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR Assay Combining Two Assays Approved by the World Health Organization Targeting the Envelope and the RNA-Dependant RNA Polymerase (RdRp) Coding Regions
Authors: Pezzi Laura , Charrel Remi N. , Ninove Laetitia , Nougairede Antoine , Molle Gregory , Coutard Bruno , Durand Guillaume , Leparc-Goffart Isabelle , de Lamballerie Xavier , Thirion Laurence
Published: June 2020

The recent emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) worldwide has highlighted the importance of reliable and rapid diagnostic testing to prevent and control virus circulation. Dozens of monoplex in-house RT-qPCR assays are already available; however, the development of dual-target assays is suited to avoid false-negative results caused by polymorphisms or point mutations, that can compromise the accuracy of diagnostic and screening tests. In this study, two mono-target assays recommended by WHO (E-Sarbeco (enveloppe gene, Charite University, Berlin, Germany) and RdRp-IP4 (RdRp, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France)) were selected and combined in a unique robust test; the resulting duo SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR assay was compared to the two parental monoplex tests. The duo SARS-CoV-2 assay performed equally, or better, in terms of sensitivity, specificity, linearity and signal intensity. We demonstrated that combining two single systems into a dual-target assay (with or without an MS2-based internal control) did not impair performances, providing a potent tool adapted for routine molecular diagnosis in clinical microbiology laboratories.