bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival Analysis of Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine Spleen-invigorating Compound in Patients with Pancreatic cancer
Authors: Li Xin , Chen Ling , Gu Xiaoqiang , Xu Jiahua , Li Hongwei , Yang Jinzu , Qian Jianxin
Published: April 2020

Background

Traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCHM) is widely used in the treatment of pancreatic cancer in China. In this retrospective study, the authors mainly analyzed the effect of TCHM on the survival time of patients with pancreatic cancer.
Methods

From 2011 to 2018, 121 pancreatic cancer patients were enrolled in this study. All patients were divided into either the TCHM group or non-TCHM group based on received TCHM or not. TCHM group received three months or more of TCHM treatment on the basis of comprehensive treatment. Kaplan-Meier method was used to assess the difference in survival time, and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was performed to identify independent prognostic factors.
Results

The overall survival was different between all patients with and without TCHM (P = 0.000), COX analysis showed the clinical staging (P = 0.050), surgery (P = 0.000), chemotherapy (P = 0.000) and TCHM (P = 0.000) were independent prognostic factors. In a stratification analysis of stage for patients who received chemotherapy, there was a significant increase in median overall survival from 10.7 (non-TCHM group) to 19.5 (TCHM group) months (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.197, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.989–5.137, P = 0.000). Patients who did not receive chemotherapy, but best supportive care, there was a significant increase in median overall survival from 4.3 (non-TCHM group) to 15.1 (TCHM group) months (HR = 0.041, 95% CI = 0.005–0.329, P = 0.003).
Conclusions

TCHM was an important independent prognostic factor of pancreatic cancer and have an effect on improving the prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients.
Clinical Analysis of small Acoustic neuromas With Initial Neurological Symptoms
Authors: Chen Ke-Yang , Zhu Juan-Juan , Fang Jun-Hao , Cheng Li-Jun , Chen Si , Chen Bo-Bei
Published: April 2020

Background

Initial neurological manifestations involved with Acoustic neuromas (ANs) are easily misdiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms. The objective is to investigate and describe the clinical features of small ANs presenting with initial neurological manifestations, to allow earlier diagnosis and more well-timed interference for patients with this disease.
Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study that included 22 patients. The detailed clinical information with initial symptoms of neurological manifestations caused by small ANs between January 2010 and May 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The collected data included symptoms, signs, neuroimaging results, and pathologic diagnoses.
Results

There were 9 males and 13 females, and their ages ranged from 22 to 74 years. Dizziness/vertigo was the most common initial presenting symptom in 9 of the 22 patients. Headache was the second most frequent initial presenting symptom in 8 of 22. Neuro-physical examination found that the facial nerve and auditory nerve were the most involved cranial nerves, with remaining positive signs involving abnormalities of the optic nerve, trigeminal nerve and abducens nerve as well as ataxia and nystagmus. More than half of the patients underwent microsurgery and had postoperative clinical symptom improvement. The patients who chose the observation method showed no change in tumor size at follow-up.
Conclusions

Dizziness/vertigo and headache are the most common initial neurological symptoms of small ANs and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients. The results suggest that MRI is the best tool in diagnosis for small ANs. Observation and microsurgery are safe and common methods for the treatment.
The functional limits of the aneurysmal aortic root. A unique pressure testing apparatus.
Authors: Surman Timothy Luke , Abrahams John Matthew , O'Rourke Dermot , Reynolds Karen , Edwards James , Worthington Michael George , Beltrame John
Published: April 2020

Background The aortic root has unique embryological development and is a highly sophisticated and complex structure. In studies that report on the biomechanical characteristics of the thoracic aorta, distinction between the aortic root and ascending aorta regions is nonexistent. Our objective is to determine the maximal pressures at which dissection occurs or tissue failure occurs in the aortic root compared to that of the ascending aorta in the presence of aortic aneurysms. This may help guide preoperative monitoring, diagnosis and the decision for operative intervention for aortic root aneurysms in the normal and susceptible populations. Methods We developed a simple aortic root and ascending aorta pressure testing unit in series. Ten fresh porcine hearts were obtained from the local abattoir (n=5 aortic root and n=5 ascending aorta for comparison). Using a saline filled needle and syringe, artificial fluid-filled aneurysms were created between the intima and medial layers of the aortic root. The aorta lumen was then progressively filled with saline solution. Pressure measurement was taken at time of loss of tissue integrity, obvious tissue dissection or aneurysm rupture, and the tissue structure was then visually examined.Results In the aortic root, mean maximal pressure (mmHg) at tissue failure was 208mmHg. Macroscopic examination revealed luminal tears around the coronary ostia in 2/5 specimens, and in all specimens, there was propagation of the dissection in the aortic root in a circumferential direction. In all ascending aorta specimens, the maximal aortic pressures exceeded 300mmHg without tissue failure or dissection, and eventual apparatus failure. Conclusion Our results indicate that the aneurysmal aortic root tissues are at greater risk of rupture and dissection propagation at lower aortic pressure. With further analysis, this could guide clinical and surgical management.
Enhanced aging and thermal shock performance of Mn1.95-xCo0.21Ni0.84SrxO4 NTC ceramics
Authors: Li Haibing , Zhang H.M. , Thayil Islla P Ley , Chang Aimin , Sang Xu , Ma Xiuhua
Published: April 2020

Herein, the Mn1.95-xCo0.21Ni0.84SrxO4 (MCNS) (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) negative temperature coefficient (NTC) materials are prepared by co-precipitation method. The replacement of Mn by Sr plays a critical role in controlling the lattice parameter, relative density, microstructure and electrical properties. The lattice parameter and relatively density increase with the increase of Sr content. Moreover, a small amount of Sr retards the grain growth and increases the bulk density. Moreover, the ρ25, B25/50, Ea and α values of MCNS ceramics are influenced by the Sr content and ranged from 1535.0-2024.1 Ω•cm, 3654–3709 K, 0.3149–0.3197 eV and 4.111–4.173%, respectively. The XPS results explain the transformation of MCNS ceramics from n- to p-type semiconductors. Moreover, the aging coefficient (△R/R) of MCNS ceramics is found to be < 0.2%, which indicates the stable distribution of cations in the spinel. Finally, the MCNS ceramics demonstrate excellent thermal durability with < 1.3% of resistance shift after 100 thermal shock cycles.
Public-Private Partnership Policy in Primary Health Care: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Gharaee Hojatolah , Aghdash Saber Azami , Tabrizi Jafar Sadegh
Published: April 2020

Background Achieving universal health coverage requires health systems oriented to primary health care (PHC). The private sector may be a crucial resource for countries’ work on universal health coverage. One of the most effective ways to engage the private sector in health system is Public-Private Partnership (PPP). Since, published experiences about PPP implementation in PHC in different countries have provided various and sometimes contradictory results, there is a need to examine the results of using PPP in PHC worldwide. Thus, the main objective of this scoping review is to perform an inclusive search for studies that report the experiences of implementation PPP in PHC worldwide. Methods This scoping review study will be conducted using the framework proposed by Arkesy and O'Malley. An extensive search of the literature will be done in five databases including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and Science Direct, and two Persian databases using a comprehensive search strategy to identify studies on PPP implementation in PHC. The search will be done from January 2000 to the end of 2019, completed by reference tracking, author tracking and expert consultation. Any study, which focuses on the results of PPP in PHC, will be included in the study. Two reviewers will screen the articles based on the title, abstract and full text, and extract data. Potential disagreements will be resolved by consulting a third author. Discussion Given the problems and shortcomings in the providing PHC services in different countries, specially low and middle income countries, the use of private sector capacities and capabilities in the form of PPP, can be effective and useful solution. The results along with recommendations will be published in order to the authorities of the health system in different countries, especially low and middle income countries, use it to make better evidence-based decisions about using PPP in PHC in the future.
Prevalence of Short Stature and Malnutrition among Egyptian Primary School Children and their Coexistence with Anemia
Authors: Shafie Ali M. El , Kasemy Zeinab A. , omar Zein A. , Alkalash Safa H. , salama Amal A. , mahrous kerollos s. , bahbah Wael A.
Published: April 2020

Background
Under nutrition and overweight typically occur during nutritional transition periods in developing countries including Egypt. Short stature and anemia are public health concern due to its strong link with malnutrition which is a preventable risk factor.
Objectives
to estimate the prevalence of overweight, obesity, underweight and short stature and its concurrence with anemia, also to determine the etiological profile of short stature among primary school children in Egypt.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was carried out on 33150 Egyptian children aged 6–11 years old from January 2018 to January 2020, allocated in 59 primary schools from diverse geographical districts in Egypt. Complete anthropometric measurements were conducted and applied according to WHO growth charts. Hemoglobin level was measured. Systematic approach to detect the etiology of short stature was applied randomly to a sample of 380 stunted children.
Results
The prevalence of underweight was 8.2%, while obesity and overweight represented 21.8% (9.6% and 12.2% respectively). Overall short stature constituted 17%. The main etiologies of short stature were familial (40.8%) and constitutional (24.2%). Anemia was diagnosed in 26% of children; while concurrent anemia and stunting was reported in 9.9%. Regarding anemia and anemia with stunting were more common among girls (30.0% (OR = 1.50, CI95%: 1.43–1.58) and 11.4% (OR = 1.39, CI95%:1.29–1.49) respectively), who were living in rural areas (33.4% (OR = 1.96, CI 95%:1.87–2.06) &12.7% (OR = 1.72, CI 95%:1.60–1.85)) and those who had low socioeconomic status )34.6% (OR = 2.54, CI 95%:2.29–2.82) & 40.4% (OR = 18.46, CI 95%:15.40-22.12() respectively. Anemia with stunting was significantly higher among children aged ≥ 9 years old representing 12% (OR = 1.40, CI 95%:1.30–1.51).
Conclusion
Prevalence of short stature, obesity and anemia was high among primary school children in Egypt with a strong concurrence between anemia and stunting. Intensive parental health education and in-depth nutritional assessment are required.
Utility of ferritin, procalcitonin, and C-reactive protein in severe patients with coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Zhou Bo , She Jianqing , Wang Yadan , Ma Xiancang
Published: April 2020

Objectives It is of clinical significance to evaluate the disease severity and investigate possible biomarkers of COVID-19. In this study, we aim to describe the clinical characteristics of infection makers in severe and very severe patients with COVID-19.Methods This is a single center, observational analysis. We enrolled 48 in-hospital severe patients with COVID-19 admitted to the West District of Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College and analyzed infection biomarkers in 20 patients who had been tested for ferritin, PCT, CRP, etc.Results We noted significantly increased CRP (1.48mg/L [IQR: 16.69-2.74] vs. 57.98mg/L [IQR: 38.335-77.565], P<0.05), PCT(0.05ng/ml [IQR: 0.03-0.06] vs. 0.21ng/ml [IQR: 0.11-0.42], P<0.05) and ferritin (291.13ng/ml [IQR: 102.1-648.42] vs. 1006.16ng/ml [IQR: 408.265-1988.25]) in severe COVID-19. For blood count, significant increase was noticed in neutrophil count (3.75*10^9/L [IQR: 3.42-4.93] vs. 8.11*10^9/L [IQR: 5.675-8.905], P<0.05); and decrease was seen in lymphocyte count (1.62*10^9/L [IQR: 0.7-1.73] vs. 0.68*10^9/L [IQR: 0.385-1.04], P<0.05), and platelet count (214*10^9/L [IQR: 184-247] vs. 147*10^9/L [IQR: 126-202.5], P<0.05) in severe COVID-19.Conclusions The serum levels of CRP, PCT and ferritin are markedly increased in very severe compared with severe COVID-19. Increased CRP, PCT and ferritin level might correlate to secondary bacterial infection and associated with poor clinical prognosis.
Fractal signature of coronaviruses related to severe acute respiratory syndrome
Authors: Fernandes Thiago de Salazar e , Filho Jonas Sérgio de Oliveira , Lopes Isvania Maria Serafim da Silva
Published: April 2020

Coronavirus is the agent which causes the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), emergent infections such as the present Pandemic of COVID-19. Understanding its genome pattern is important for developing new and faster ways of testing for identifying the genome of the virus, and also for better understanding of its origin and evolution. The aim of this work was to investigate the genome of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 by the paradigm of chaos theory and fractal geometry. For that, it was calculated the alpha coefficient by detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) for the sequences of these genomes converted to binary numbers in order to determine if it is a chaotic or a random series of data. Also, it was applied the random walking for obtaining a fractal map of the whole genome, and calculated the fractal dimension (FD) by box-counting of this map by two different softwares. With this, it was found that the alpha coefficient of the first SARS viruses was > 0.5, indicating that the series is chaotic or fractal, and has a persistent long-range memory or self-similarity along its sequence. This is not the case for MERS virus, which showed to have a completely random sequence (alpha < 0.5). For the fractal dimension, SARS viruses presented a FD around 1.5, and for MERS the fractal dimension decreases (FD < 1.5). The images generated by random walking of the entire RNA genome are by itself a fractal signature of the virus, which may be applied for studying its origin and for faster diagnostic of COVID-19.
Potential biomarkers for predicting of depression in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Song Xiuli , Zheng Qiang , Zhang Rui , Wang Miye , Deng Wei , Wang Qiang , Guo Wanjun , Li Tao , ma xiaohong
Published: April 2020

Background To identify the potential biomarkers for predicting depression in diabetes mellitus using the support vector machine technique to analyze routine biochemical tests and vital signs between two groups: subjects with both diabetes mellitus and depression, and subjects with diabetes mellitus alone. Methods Electronic medical records upon admission and biochemical tests and vital signs of 135 patients with both diabetes mellitus and depression and 178 patients with diabetes mellitus alone were identified for this retrospective study. After the covariate regression analysis on age and sex, the two groups were classified by the recursive feature elimination-based support vector machine and the biomarkers were also identified by 10-fold cross validation. Specifically, the training data, evaluation data, and testing data were split for ranking the parameters, determine the optimal parameters, and assess classification performance. Results The experimental results identified 12 predictive biomarkers with classification accuracy of 74%. The 12 biomarkers are hydroxybutyrate, magnesium, hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, total protein, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, cholesterol, absolute value of the lymphocyte, blood urea nitrogen, chlorine, platelet count, and glutamyltranspeptidase. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was also used with area under the curve being 0.79. Conclusions Some biochemical parameters may be potential biomarkers to predict depression among the subjects with diabetes mellitus.
A deeper look at COVID-19 CFR: health care impact and roots of discrepancy
Authors: Dehkordi Amirhoshang Hoseinpour , Nemati Reza , Tavousi Pouya
Published: April 2020

Intensive care capacity and proper testing play a paramount role in the COVID-19 Case Fatality Rate (CFR). Nevertheless, the real impact of such important measures has not been appreciated due to the lack of proper metrics. In this work, we have proposed a method for estimating a lower bound for the number of positive cases by using the reported data on the oldest age group and the regions' population distributions. The proposed estimation method improved the expected similarity between the age-distribution of positive cases and regions' population. Further, we have provided a quantitative measure for the impact of intensive care on the critical cases by comparing the CFR among those who did and did not receive intensive care. Our findings showed that the chance of living among non-ICU receivers is less than half of ICU receivers (~24% vs ~60%).
Supplemental Radiation Quality Influences Cucumber, Tomato, and Pepper Transplant Growth and Development
Authors: Garcia Charlie , Lopez Roberto G.
Published: April 2020

Supplemental lighting is required for the production of high-quality vegetable transplants in greenhouses when the photosynthetic daily light integral (DLI) is low. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are a promising alternative to high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps. However, there are a limited number of studies that have evaluated how LED supplemental lighting spectral quality beyond blue (B) and red (R) radiation influences plant growth and development. Seeds of hybrid greenhouse seedless cucumber ‘Elsie’ (Cucumis sativus), tomato ‘Climstar’ (Solanum lycopersicum), and pepper ‘Kathia’ (Capsicum annuum) were sown and placed into a dark growth chamber until radicle emergence. Seedlings were grown in a greenhouse at a 25 °C constant temperature set point and under five lighting treatments. The supplemental lighting treatments delivered a total photon flux density (TPFD) of 120 μmol·m−2·s−1 for 16 h·d−1 based on an instantaneous threshold from HPS lamps or LEDs [three treatments composed of B (400–500 nm), R (600–700 nm), white, and/or far-red (FR; 700–800 nm) LEDs], and a control that delivered 25 μmol·m−2·s−1 from HPS lamps (HPS25). The LED treatments defined by their wavebands (TPFD in μmol·m−2·s–1) of B, green (G, 500–600 nm), R, and FR radiation were B20G10R75FR15, B25R95, and B30G30R60; whereas the HPS treatments emitted B7G57R47FR9 (HPS120) and B1G13R9FR2 (HPS25). Generally, cucumber, pepper, and tomato transplants under B30G30R60 and HPS120 supplemental lighting had the greatest stem diameter. Fresh weight and leaf area of all three species was greater when G radiation replaced R or B radiation. For example, leaf area and fresh weight of cucumber, tomato, and pepper increased (by 33%, 22%, and 49%; and 35%, 14%, and 56%, respectively) for plants under B30G30R60 supplemental lighting compared with plants under B25R95 supplemental lighting. The most compact cucumber and pepper transplants were those grown under B25R95 supplemental lighting, and the most compact tomatoes were those grown under the HPS25 (control) and B25R95 supplemental lighting. Tomato transplants under treatments providing ≥30 μmol·m−2·s−1 of G radiation had an increased incidence of leaf necrosis. From this study, we conclude that plant responses to supplemental lighting quality are generally genera-specific, and therefore high-wire transplants should be separated by genera to optimize production and quality. However, additional studies are required to provide complete LED supplemental lighting recommendations.
Turf Performance of Shaded ‘TifGrand’ and ‘TifSport’ Hybrid Bermudagrass as Affected by Mowing Height and Trinexapac-ethyl
Authors: Schwartz Brian , Zhang Jing , Fox Jonathon , Peake Jason
Published: April 2020

Heavily shaded environments often limit the performance and persistence of hybrid bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon × C. transvaalensis), therefore a field-based shade study was performed to determine whether different mowing heights (0.5 and 1.5 inch) or two trinexapac-ethyl (TE) growth regulator management treatments (control and 2 oz/acre) allow either ‘TifSport’ or ‘TifGrand’ hybrid bermudagrass to persist under 77% shade. Turfgrass quality (TQ), green cover, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and dark-green color index (DGCI) were evaluated on the two cultivars under a shade structure in Tifton, GA, during 2010 and 2011. Neither of the cultivars maintained acceptable TQ throughout the entire year under 77% shade, although ‘TifGrand’ displayed adequate TQ at the higher mowing height (1.5 inch) and demonstrated more shade tolerance than ‘TifSport’, as indicated by TQ, green cover, and NDVI. The TE application did not enhance the turf performance of ‘TifSport’ under 77% shade when mowed at 0.5 inch, but it improved turf performance of ‘TifGrand’ at the same height. The effect of TE application was cultivar and mowing height dependent under this heavily shaded environment, which warrants future study to determine the best management practices of these cultivars as well as continued efforts to develop new, shade-tolerant bermudagrass hybrids.
Pharmacokinetics of Inter-Alpha Inhibitor Proteins and Effects on Hemostasis After Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury in Neonatal Rats
Authors: Chen Xiaodi , Song Dawei , Nakada Sakura , Qiu Joseph , Iwamoto Karin , Chen Ray H. , Lim Yow-Pin , Jusko William J. , Stonestreet Barbara S.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Hypoxic-ischemic (HI) brain injury is a leading cause of long-term neurodevelopmental
morbidities in neonates. Human plasma-derived Inter-Alpha Inhibitor Proteins (hIAIPs) are neuroprotective after
HI brain injury in neonatal rats. The light chain (bikunin) of hIAIPs inhibits proteases involved in the coagulation
of blood. Newborns exposed to HI can be at risk for significant bleeding in the brain and other organs.

Objective:

The objectives of the present study were to assess the pharmacokinetics (PK) and the duration of bleeding
after intraperitoneal (IP) administration of hIAIPs in HI-exposed male and female neonatal rats.

Methods:

HI was induced with the Rice-Vannucci method in postnatal (P) day-7 rats. After the right common
carotid artery ligation, rats were exposed to 90 min of 8% oxygen. hIAIPs (30 mg/kg, IP) were given immediately
after Sham or HI exposure in the PK study and serum was collected 1, 6, 12, 24, or 36 h after the injections.
Serum hIAIP concentrations were measured with a competitive ELISA. ADAPT5 software was used to fit the
pooled PK data considering first-order absorption and disposition. hIAIPs (60 mg/kg, IP) were given in the bleeding
time studies at 0, 24 and 48 h after HI with tail bleeding times measured 72 h after HI.

Results:

IP administration yielded significant systemic exposure to hIAIPs with PK being affected markedly
including primarily faster absorption and reduced elimination as a result of HI and modestly of sex-related differences.
hIAIP administration did not affect bleeding times after HI.

Conclusion:

These results will help to inform hIAIP dosing regimen schedules in studies of neuroprotection in
neonates exposed to HI.
Forward Programming of Pluripotent Stem Cells to Neurons
Authors: Gu Jinchao , Cromer Brett , Sumer Huseyin
Published: April 2020

Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are powerful tools for studying developmental
biology and neuronal diseases. Conventional differentiation protocols require several
intermediate states and different culture conditions, inefficiently generating mixed
subtypes of neuronal cells with immature characteristics. Direct programming of PSCs
by forced expression of neuronal transcription factors has shown rapid cell fate
determination with high purity as it can bypass sequential developmental steps that
traditional culture requires. In this review, we focus on neuronal differentiation from
PSCs to specific subtypes by various transcription factors. Furthermore, the potential
applications and limitations of this novel technology are discussed.
Autumn Royal and Egnatia Grape Extracts Differently Modulate Cell Proliferation in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Gigante Isabella , Milella Rosa Anna , Tutino Valeria , Debiase Giambattista , Notarangelo Luciano , Giannandrea Maria Angela , De Nunzio Valentina , Orlando Antonella , D’Alessandro Rosalba , Caruso Maria Gabriella , Notarnicola Maria
Published: April 2020

Objective:

Polyphenols extracted by table grape have been demonstrated to decrease cell
proliferation in vitro and to exert anti-atherosclerotic and antithrombotic activities, regulating cell functions.
A grape polyphenolic profile is affected by climate as well as a grape cultivar. This study was
aimed to characterize the berry skin polyphenolic composition, antioxidant activity and antiproliferative
properties of two black grape cultivars, Autumn Royal and Egnatia.

Methods:

The phenolic composition of Grape Skin Extracts (GSEs) was determined by HPLC analyses.
The antioxidant activity was determined using DPPH, ABTS and ORAC tests. Caco2, HT29 and
SW480 human colon cancer cell lines were used to test the effects of GSEs in vitro. Cell proliferation
and cell cycle were assessed with the MTT method and a Muse cell analyzer, respectively. qPCR and
Western Blotting analysis were used to evaluate gene and protein expression, respectively.

Results:

The total polyphenolic content and the total antioxidant capacity were significantly higher in
Autumn Royal than in Egnatia. However, table grape Egnatia showed greater ability to affect cell proliferation
and apoptosis, as well as to exert a growth arrest in the S phase of the cell cycle, particularly
in the Caco2 cell line.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that the new grape variety Egnatia is an interesting source of phenolic
compounds that could be of interest in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
A Binary Mixture of Sesame And Castor Oil as an Ecofriendly Corrosion Inhibitor of Mild Steel In Crude Oil
Authors: Oguntade Tomiwa I. , Ita Christiana S. , Sanmi Olabode , Oyekunle Daniel T.
Published: April 2020

Background:

A binary mixture of sesame and castor oil was used for reducing the corrosion rate of mild steel in crude oil environments. This study investigated the corrosion behavior of a binary mixture of sesame and castor oil as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in crude oil. Different parameters such as immersion time, the concentration of inhibitor and pH were investigated for corrosion of mild steel.

Methods:

Experimental analysis indicates that a passive layer of the inhibitor formed over the surface of mild steel thereby reducing the corrosion rate. This was demonstrated by varying different process parameters such as the concentration of binary inhibitor, pH and time using two different statistical models; the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and the Artificial Neural Network (ANN).

Results:

From the results, it was observed that ANN was a better predictive tool to determine the corrosion rate of mild steel than the RSM.

Conclusion:

Overall, both the models prove that relative to the process parameters used, the importance level of the parameters was Time < Concentration of binary inhibitor < pH.
Patients’ Preferences for Dentist’s Nationality and Gender among Residents of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alzahrani Shrooq , Aboalshamat Khalid , Bedaiwi Samaher , Alnefaie Sarah , Almutairi Taghreed , Asiri Saja , Alnuwaymi Ibtihal
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

Several studies have shown that a dentist’s gender and nationality are important factors for patients when they choose their dentist. This topic is important in countries like Saudi Arabia, which is considered to be conservative and has many cultural boundaries that separate men from women in daily activities.

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate patient preference for a dentist’s gender among a sample population in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study recruited 1,000 participants who completed a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS v.21.

Results:

A total of 46.2% of the participants had no particular gender preference for dentists in general, while 28.6% prefered male dentists and 25.2% prefered female dentists. Male and female participants had statistically significant differences in the selection of a dentist’s gender in general, with all participants tending to choose a dentist of the same gender as themselves. Previous personal experience and recommendations from friends were among the most influential factors in choosing dentists of a specific gender. In terms of preferences for dentists of a particular nationality, 45.6% had no preferences, while 28.4% preferred Saudi dentists.

Conclusion:

Although half of the Jeddah residents participating in our study had no preference for dentists of a particular gender or nationality, the other half had specific preferences.
Pattern and Reasons for Permanent Tooth Extractions at Dental Clinics of the University of Science and Technology of Fujairah, UAE
Authors: Alsaegh Mohammed Amjed , Albadrani Abdullah Wadullah
Published: April 2020

Objectives:

To evaluate the pattern and reasons for permanent tooth extractions in an adult patient seeking free dental care at clinics of the University of Science and Technology of Fujairah, UAE.

Methods:

The current retrospective study involved patients who had a dental extraction in the student dental clinics of the University of Science and Technology of Fujairah. Data of 1000 randomly selected extractions were collected from the archive of the university dental clinics.

Results:

Males had more teeth extracted (88.3%) than females. The most frequent extraction (58.9%) was in individuals of 30-49 years old range. Dental caries was the major reason (44.6%) of extractions, followed by wisdom teeth related extraction (23.4%), periodontal disease (18.1), failure of endodontically treated teeth (8.7%), prosthetic reasons (2.6), orthodontic reasons (1.7%), and trauma (0.9%) respectively. The most extracted teeth were the maxillary posterior teeth (45.6%), followed by mandibular posterior teeth (38.2%); then, maxillary anterior teeth (8.8) and lastly, were the mandibular anterior teeth (7.4%). Caries was significantly more frequent in female gender (χ2= 250.126; p=.000), while the periodontal disease was more common in male gender (χ2 = 146.790; p=.000).

Conclusion:

Caries is the principal reason for tooth extractions, followed by wisdom teeth related problems and periodontal disease. There is an increasing percentage of tooth extraction due to periodontal disease with both aging and male gender. Caries was the more frequent reason for extraction in all quadrants, except the lower anterior teeth in which periodontal disease was the more frequent reason. Lastly, anterior teeth were retained in the oral cavity more than posterior teeth.
Physiological Animal Imaging with 68Ga-Citrate
Authors: Uğur Ayşe , Gültekin Aziz
Published: April 2020

Background:

Gallium-68 is an ideal research and hospital-based PET radioisotope. The
uptake mechanism of Gallium citrate is a combination of specific and non-specific processes, for
example, vasodilatation, increased vascular permeability, plasma transferrin binding and lactoferrin
and siderophores.

Objective:

In this study, by applying the 68Ge/68Ga generator product, a simple technique for the
synthesis and quality control of 68Ga-citrate was introduced and was followed by preliminary animal
studies.

Methods:

The synthesis of 68Ga-citrate was performed with a cationic method using the Scintomics
automated synthesis system (Scintomics GmbH GRP module 4V). Since the standard procedure
for quality control (QC) was not available, the definition of chemical and radiochemical purity of
68Ga-citrate was carried out according to the ICH Q2(R1) guideline. The standard QC tests were
analysed with Scintomics 8100 radio-HPLC system equipped with a radioactivity detector. In this
study, a New Zealand rabbit weighing 2520 g was used for PET/CT images.

Results:

Gallium-68 is an ideal research and hospital-based PET radioisotope. The
uptake mechanism of Gallium citrate is a combination of specific and non-specific processes, for
example, vasodilatation, increased vascular permeability, plasma 68Ga-citrate synthesis was performed by a cationic method without using organic solvents.
The labelling efficiency was found to be >98%. The HPLC method used to assess the radiochemical
purity of 68Ga -citrate was validated as rapid, accurate and reproducible enough to apply it to patients
safely. The physiological distribution of 68Ga-citrate was investigated in a healthy rabbit. The
blood pool, liver, spleen, kidneys and growth plates were the most common sites of 68Ga-citrate involvement. transferrin binding and lactoferrin
and siderophores.
Chromatographic Assessment of Polyphenolic Profile and Total Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity of Common Leafy Vegetables in Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Mohammad Khairul , Tuli Rumana , Khan Mohammad Sharif , Abdullah Abu Tareq Mohammad , Khatun Maksuda , Akhtaruzzaman Mohammad , Islam Sheikh Nazrul
Published: April 2020

Background:

Polyphenolic compounds are known to provide health benefits and protect
against degenerative chronic diseases. Utilization and identification of foods with a high
content of these compounds are gaining greater attention nowadays.

Objective:

The present study reports the total phenolic content (TPC), polyphenolic composition
and antioxidant activity (DPPH, FRAP and TEAC) of 10 commonly consumed leafy vegetables
growing in Bangladesh.

Materials and Methods:

The samples were collected from different locations of Bangladesh and
mixed together to ensure sample representativeness. Folin-Ciocalteu method was used for the
analysis of TPC, and quantification of polyphenolic components was done by high-performance
liquid chromatography (HPLC- DAD). Additionally, antioxidant activities of the selected vegetables
were also analysed by utilizing DPPH, FRAP & TEAC.

Results and Discussion:

TPC ranged from 23.64 ± 1.20 to 45.59 ± 3.04 mg gallic acid equivalent
(GAE)/g freeze-dried sample (fds). The polyphenolic spectrum ranged from 0.30 ± 0.02 to
647.42 ± 147.12 mg/100 g fds; quantity and spectrum of which varied in the vegetables. Among
the studied vegetables, Centella asiatica contained the highest amount of TPC (45.59 ± 3.04 mg
GAE/g fds) and also exhibited high antioxidant capacities, as documented by DPPH, FRAP and
TEAC assays. Moreover, Principal component analysis (PCA) of investigated variables clearly
separated Centella asiatica from other samples.

Conclusion:

Phenolic compounds being strong antioxidants reduce the risk of chronic diseases
and the finding of this study would aware the people to take vegetables rich in phenolics. It
would also fill up the data gap in the existing food composition table of Bangladesh.
Perception, visibility and invisibility in Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man
Authors: Stéphane Beugre Zouankouan
Published: April 2020

This study analyses three essential motifs which are perception, visibility and invisibility and how their relationships determine and legislate the interracial relationships between whites and blacks in Ralph Ellison’s novel, INVISIBLE MAN. Through insightful analysis, this paper aims to show how from a visible status in existence, the perception that white people have about black people transforms this visibility into an invisible status both in human existence and society and namely in the white American society. And also it aims to clear out how this metamorphosis of black people from visibility to invisibility at first based on white people's perception, is principally based and due to their color of skin, and to another “Blackness” of Black people or African-Americans color of skin. Creating a real problem of existence and identity for black people through the question: “do I exist?”, the refusal of such perception and invisibility constructed by racism, stereotypes, prejudices and the concept of white people superiority will oblige black people to struggle for their visibility, their true existence, their identity and recognition by white people as an equal human being.
OKUL ÖNCESİ ÖĞRETMENLERİNİN AİLE KATILIMINA YÖNELİK GÖRÜŞLERİNİN DERİNLEMESİNE İNCELENMESİ
Authors: Kutlu Abu Neşe , Kaymaz Zarife
Published: April 2020

Bu
çalışmanın amacı, okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin sınıf içi ve sınıf dışı aile
katılım çalışmalarına yönelik görüşlerini derinlemesine incelenmektir. Araştırmada,
nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden olgubilim deseni kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın
çalışma grubunu 2018-2019 eğitim öğretim yılında Amasya’da okul öncesi eğitim
kurumlarında görev yapan 7 öğretmen oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada yarı
yapılandırılmış görüşme formu kullanılmış olup, verilerin analizinden tümevarımsal
analizden yararlanılmıştır. Araştırmadan elde edilen bulgulara göre okul öncesi
öğretmenleri çeşitli sebeplerle aile katılım çalışmalarını yetersiz
bulmaktadır. Öğretmenler aile katılım etkinliklerinin çoğunlukla ailelerin
seçtiklerini, sınıf içi etkinliklerin daha çok tercih edildiğini ve ailelerin
okul öncesi eğitim hakkında bilgilerinin yetersiz olduğunu düşünmektedir. Öğretmenlerin
aile katılımıyla meslek tanıtımı ve pikniklerin dışında okul dışı etkinlikleri
çeşitli sebeplerle yap(a)madıklarını düşündükleri tespit edilmiştir. İleriki
çalışmalarda okul öncesi öğretmenlerine okul dışı etkinliklerin planlanması,
uygulanması ve değerlendirilmesi hakkında; meslek tanıtımı ve pikniklerin
dışında çeşitli okul dışı etkinliklerin ailelerle birlikte yapılması yönünde
eğitimler verilebilir.
PRESERVICE ENGLISH TEACHERS' MOTIVATION FOR TEACHING DIFFERENT GRADE LEVELS
Authors: Ölçü Dinçer Zeynep
Published: April 2020

Learners
from different age groups are motivated to learn English as it is counted to be
the prevalent lingua franca in the world. Nevertheless, the current English
teacher education departments in Turkey have a common curriculum with a rather
limited focus on different age characteristics. This study aimed to investigate
preservice teachers’ (PT) motivation with regard to teaching learners from
different age levels and the factors affecting their motivation. The data were
collected from preservice English teachers’ (N=156) through a questionnaire.
Friedman test was used to analyze the ranking item and content analysis was
employed for open ended responses. Preservice English teachers’ motivation
level to teach different age groups can be sorted from the most to the least as
secondary school, primary school, high school, university and kindergarten.
Factors affecting PTs’ motivation were efficacy beliefs, instructional
concerns, beliefs about learners, attitude towards learners
and professional development aspirations.
YAŞAM TEMELLİ ÖĞRENME YAKLAŞIMI İLE DESTEKLİ ÇEVRE EĞİTİMİNİN ORTAOKUL 7.SINIF ÖĞRENCİLERİNİN ÇEVREYE YÖNELİK TUTUM, DAVRANIŞ VE BAŞARI DÜZEYLERİNE ETKİSİ
Authors: Yıldırım Halil İbrahim , Dağıstanlı Feyza
Published: April 2020

Bu araştırma yaşam temelli öğrenme yaklaşımı ile destekli
çevre eğitiminin ortaokul 7.sınıf öğrencilerinin çevreye yönelik tutum,
davranış ve başarılarına nasıl bir etkisi olduğunu incelemek amacıyla
yapılmıştır. Araştırma 2018-2019 öğretim yılında Muş il merkezindeki devlet
okulunda öğrenim gören ortaokul 7. sınıf öğrencileri üzerinde uygulanmıştır.
Araştırmada yarı deneysel yöntem, öntest-sontest kontrol gruplu deneysel desen
kullanılmıştır. 7.sınıf şubelerinden bir şube kontrol, bir şube deney grubu
olarak belirlenmiştir. Deney grubunda 29 öğrenci ve kontrol grubunda ise 28
öğrenci olmak üzere toplam 57 öğrenci araştırmanın çalışma grubunda
bulunmaktadır. Araştırmanın uygulama basamağı aynı fen öğretmeni tarafından
gerçekleştirilmiş ve 11 hafta sürmüştür. Hem kontrol hem de deney grubunda aynı
çevre konularının öğretimi yapılmıştır. Deney grubunda yaşam temelli öğrenme
yaklaşımı ile destekli çevre eğitimi, kontrol grubunda ise öğretmen merkezli
öğretim yöntemleri kullanılarak çevre eğitimi gerçekleştirilmiştir. Veri
toplama aracı olarak çevre davranış ölçeği, çevre tutum ölçeği ve çevre başarı
testi öntest ve sontest olarak uygulanmıştır. Verilerin analizinde Bağımsız
Gruplar için t-Testi ve Bağımlı Gruplar için t-Testi uygulanmıştır. Araştırmada
yaşam temelli öğrenme yaklaşımı ile destekli çevre eğitiminin 7. sınıf
öğrencilerinin çevreye yönelik tutum, davranış ve başarı düzeylerini
geliştirmede anlamlı seviyede etkili olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Profil kemampuan berpikir kreatif matematis ditinjau dari gaya kognitif reflective dan impulsive
Authors: Miatun Asih , Nurafni Nurafni
Published: April 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan profil kemampuan berpikir kreatif matematis mahasiswa calon guru dalam menyelesaikan masalah open-ended ditinjau dari gaya kognitif reflective dan impulsive. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian deskriptif kualitatif. Subjek penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa calon guru pada Program Studi Pendidikan matematika, Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. DR. HAMKA yang diambil menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Validasi data menggunakan teknik triangulasi waktu. Data dianalisis menggunakan metode perbandingan tetap (constant comparative method) dengan langkah (1) reduksi data dan kategorisasi, (2) penyajian data; dan (3) penarikan kesimpulan dan verifikasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa dari empat indikator kemampuan berpikir kreatif matematis, mahasiswa dengan gaya kognitif reflective mampu memenuhi aspek kelancaran dan keterincian, yaitu menjawab soal dengan lebih lancar, mampu menjelaskan hubungan sebab akibat antar konsep yang digunakan, serta lebih rinci dan runtut dalam menjawab dan menjelaskan jawaban tertulisnya, dibandingkan dengan mahasiswa dengan gaya kognitif impulsive. Indikator aspek keluwesan dan kebaruan masih belum bisa terpenuhi karena mahasiswa dengan gaya kognitif reflective dan impulsive baru mampu menjawab pertanyaan menggunakan satu cara saja dan belum menggunakan strategi baru. Profile of mathematical creative thinking ability viewed from reflective and impulsive cognitive style AbstractThe study aimed to describe mathematical creative thinking ability profiles of prospective students in solving open-ended problems in terms of reflective and impulsive cognitive styles. The research classified as a qualitative descriptive study. The subjects of this study were prospective students of the Mathematics Education Department, Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. DR. HAMKA and selected using a purposive sampling technique. For data validation, we used time triangulation techniques. Data were analyzed using the constant comparison method with steps (1) data reduction and categorization; (2) data presentation; and (3) conclusions and verification. The results showed that from the four indicators of mathematical creative thinking, students with reflective cognitive style were able to fulfill fluency and detail aspects in answering questions, explain causal relationships between concepts used, and more detail in written answers, compared to students with impulsive cognitive style. The indicators of flexibility and originality aspects of both students with the reflective and impulsive cognitive style are still cannot be fulfilled because they only answer questions using one method without using a new strategy.
What the high school students say about mathematics homework
Authors: Pastoriko Fransiskus Magnis , Hidayati Kana , Rasmuin Rasmuin
Published: April 2020

Homework had become a tradition in teaching and learning mathematics in school. Even so, in Indonesia, there is not enough research on homework. Our research is conducted to investigate high school students’ views on homework and to provide the basis for further research on homework in Indonesia. In this research, we use exploratory-descriptive qualitative to explore and describe the students’ view of homework. We collected the data from 124 high school students by using the structured interview conducted via online form. The data were analyzed by using the thematic analysis. Based on our results, we found that (1) students know that mathematics homework can help them with their academic achievement and their attitudes toward their studies, (2) mathematics homework is not high on their priority, (3) it makes them tired physically and mentally, and (4) students argue that mathematics problems are better to be solved in the class where they can ask the teacher. We also found their difficulties in doing their homework, such as (1) lack of knowledge (2) their teachers do not give them the necessary ‘tools’ to solve the problems, (3) they can’t ask for helping hands if they can’t solve the problems (4) some emotional  problems such as motivation, and (5) other priorities are higher on their list.
Scheduled Telephone Support for Internet Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression in Patients at Risk for Dropout: Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Pihlaja Satu , Lahti Jari , Lipsanen Jari Olavi , Ritola Ville , Gummerus Eero-Matti , Stenberg Jan-Henry , Joffe Grigori
Published: April 2020

Background

Therapist-supported, internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) is efficient in the treatment of depression. However, the optimal mode and intensity of therapist support remain to be identified. Scheduled telephone support (STS) may improve adherence and outcomes but, as it is time- and resource-consuming, should be reserved for patients for whom the usual support may be insufficient.

Objective

This paper aims to reveal whether add-on STS for patients at risk of dropping out improves treatment adherence and symptoms in iCBT for depression.

Methods

Among patients participating in an ongoing large observational routine clinical practice study of iCBT for depression delivered nationwide by Helsinki University Hospital (HUS-iCBT), those demonstrating a ≥14-day delay in initiation of treatment received invitations to this subsidiary STS study. A total of 100 consenting patients were randomly allocated to either HUS-iCBT as usual (control group, n=50) or HUS-iCBT plus add-on STS (intervention group, n=50). Proportions of those reaching midtreatment and treatment end point served as the primary outcome; secondary outcomes were change in Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)–measured depressive symptoms and time spent in treatment.

Results

Add-on STS raised the proportion of patients reaching midtreatment compared with HUS-iCBT as usual (29/50, 58% vs 18/50, 36%; P=.045) and treatment end point (12/50, 24% vs 3/50, 6%; P=.02). Change in BDI score also favored add-on STS (3.63 points vs 1.1 points; P=.049), whereas duration of treatment did not differ.

Conclusions

Add-on STS enhances adherence and symptom improvement of patients at risk of dropping out of iCBT for depression in routine clinical practice.

Trial Registration

International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) 55123131; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN55123131.