bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of dance-based activities on recovery and improvement of motor functions in post-stroke patients: A systematic review
Authors: Nikolić Jelena , Eminović Fadilj , Šimpraga Ljiljana , Pešterac-Kujundžić Angelka
Published: November 2021

Stroke is a clinical syndrome, and one of the leading causes of death and disability, occurring under the influence of a large number of risk factors. The symptoms of a stroke are in correlation with the size, time and location of the lesion. Rehabilitation, which involves the application of conventional and supplementary methods, relates to the assessment of the ability, the level of damage of the affected functions, and an adequately designed rehabilitation program. The use of dance, as a rehabilitation procedure in post-stroke patients, requires listening and active participation of an individual with a specific motor reaction to the stimulus. The primary aim of this article is to demonstrate the importance and effects of the application of dance in the rehabilitation process in post-stroke patients, with a special emphasis on the process of improving motor skills and functions. In accordance with the set criteria and purpose of study, scientific research papers were collected and analysed from the PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct and Oxford Academic databases, all published in the period between 2010 and 2019, and all indicating the importance of the application of dance when treating post-stroke conditions. The obtained results suggest that dance, which is basically a sports-recreational activity, when applied for therapeutic purposes in persons after stroke, contributes to the development and recovery of motor abilities, balance, mobility, endurance, coordination, motor skills, stance, walking and precision. Also, dancing is of great importance for the improvement of the functioning of the whole organism, which directly or indirectly affects the recovery of motor functions and the overall welfare of an individual.
Hand block techniques in traditional and modern sport karate
Authors: Sopčić Duško , Janevski Jugoslav , Mudrić Radomir , Milosavljević Srđan
Published: November 2021

The paper points to the position and role of block techniques in traditional and modern sport karate. The realization of blocks in traditional and modern sports karate is essentially different, and those differences represent the focus of this paper. An in-depth analysis underlines those differences not only in terms of execution, but also in terms of training methodology. Understanding the essential differences in the execution of blocks in traditional karate on one side and modern sport karate on the other side can be of crucial importance when it comes to achieving maximum sports results, especially among top athletes. Comprehending the technical differences between blocks, i.e. their implementation in traditional and modern sport karate holds essential importance for the preparation of competitors in modern sport karate, above all for fights. Rejecting the given fact would most certainly have a negative impact in shape of the absence of sports achievements in fights in modern sport karate.
Connection of anthropometric indicators and motor abilities of primary school students
Authors: Vukićević Veljko , Lukić Nikola , Zečević Stanko
Published: November 2021

The aim of the study was to determine the association between manifest variables of motor skills and body mass index in elementary school students aged 9 to 12. The study was of a transversal nature, that is, only one measurement was conducted on this population of students. The sample consisted of third, fourth, fifth and sixth grade male students from the elementary school "Svetozar Miletic" in Vrbas, a total of 95 respondents. In order to determine the coreelation between predictor variables system and the criterion variable, as well as the individual contribution of the predictor to the definition of the criterion variables, linear regression analysis was applied. The obtained results show that there is a statistically significant correlation in the 3rd grade students in the variables of deep trunk inclination and high hinge with the body mass index, there is no statistically significant correlation of manifested motor skills variables with the body mass index in the 4th and 5th grade students. The 6th grade students show statistically significant correlation between the trunk flexion variables for 30 s and block start 30m sprint with body mass index. Attitudes towards the teacher provide valuable information about what students think and feel about them, thus creating adequate conditions for effecting change and improving both teaching and relationships with students.
Sport, human resources and basic values of japanese society
Authors: Maksimović Marijana
Published: November 2021

Japan is a capitalist country that puts profit at the center of the organization of industrial relations, but puts the "man" at the center of the organization of society and, accordingly, attaches great importance to human resources. Sport, as part of a healthy lifestyle, is one of the ways to promote longevity in Japan. In addition to many other elements, it contributes to a higher quality of life along with a particular diet. In Japan, stress is present because change is part of everyday life, and in the elimination of stress, it helps the sport as part of a healthy approach to life. Japan has a very long history of traditional martial sports and that are part of the budo, namely: judo, kendo, kyudo, sumo, karate-do, aikido, shorinji kempo, naginata, and jukendo. The very English term "martial arts" implies both martial sports and martial arts, though the two terms are distinguished. For example, a traditional martial sport is sumo, a martial arts is aikido, while karate is both a sport and a martial art. The main difference between martial sports and martial arts is that martial sports have competitions and firm rules in line with which athletes compete, while the arts have no contests and competition rules, but rather respect the principles of the martial art itself. Today, martial sports aim to improve a person's potential and abilities through learning, and to lead them to a fair triumph. The main point of martial arts is the acquisition of combat skills that are applicable in every situation.
Student perception of role of sport at university
Authors: Nešić Milan , Nešić Branimir
Published: November 2021

The concept of university sports in Serbia is still dominantly based on occasional sports manifestations (competitions) for students. Mostly in the shape of single ad-hoc tournaments in different areas of sport or as competitions of student athletes within the University sports association. The current position of a majority of student population in terms of university sports in Serbia can be characterized as passive (spectators), while direct participants, who are recruited from the field of active competitive sports, have this only as an “additional” obligation within the sport they already practice in “their” sport clubs. Therefore, students’ perception of the role of sports/physical activity at university represents a very important determinant for creating adequate (new) program contents, concepts and for the implementation of physical education in higher education institutions in Serbia. The goal of this research, which is realised as an empirical non-experimental study, is to identify the attitude and opinion of students about the role of sport and organized physical exercising at university. The sample involved 227 students at the University of Novi Sad and Educons University from Sremska Kamenica. Survey was used as the basic research technique, and the instrument was constructed as a questionnaire whose basic semantic structure was based on similar instruments used in a few earlier studies. The results showed that the currently trend indicates a drop in regular practice of sport after enrolment in faculty, but youth positively perceive the role of sports at higher education institutions, clearly recognizing its importance in social interaction. Therefore, pedagogical implications of this research can certainly dominantly relate to management structures of higher education institutions in shape of a clear message about the necessity to introduce more intense education of all education stakeholders about the values and importance of physical activity (physical exercising) of youth. In that context, they also encourage changes in overall education policy in Serbia.
Event tourism and sustainable development
Authors: Dugalić Sretenka
Published: November 2021

Tourism is an important base of the country's socio-economic and cultural development. Tourism development strategies involve factors that the society applies to make the best use of its benefits or neutralize the problems it creates in their economies. As every economic subject aims at achieving effectiveness and efficiency, tourism management is tasked with responding to current challenges, and connecting service providers to users so as to achieve mutual satisfaction. Decision-making in tourism is particularly complex when events (cultural, sports…) are held in protected areas and national parks, which attract tourists the most. Since the capacities of a tourist destination often do not meet the needs of constant, accelerated growth of the number of visitors, sustainable development becomes a professional challenge for tourism destination management, and it is often a source of problems for tour operators or governments. A lack of resources, pollution, security, numerous risks…, are some of the factors that may reduce tourism profits or contribute to losses. This paper explores certain aspects of strategies that can bring benefits for visitors, organizers and the society as a whole, in accordance with the achieved level of overall economic, social and cultural development. The paper also points out the concerns, problems, codes and strategies that affect the final product, as an aspect of engagement in the quality management process in tourism.
Experimental and simulation study of phase transformation in thermite welded railway steel heat-affected zone regions
Authors: Sojiphan Kittichai
Published: November 2021

Rail transportation has been an emerging and promising transportation method for economic development in Thailand and several countries. Thermite welding is one of the major welding and joining processes used to weld rail steel both during construction and maintenance. Unlike most welding processes in which heat is generated by electrical energy, thermite welding use heat generated during the chemical reactions between iron oxide and aluminum or other metallic compounds to create the weld. The amount of heat generated is thus depended on the composition and ratios of iron oxide, aluminum, as well as other metallic compounds mixed in the thermite powder. In addition, the size, shape, and material used for thermite mold could also play an important role in the heat transfer process during thermite welding of rail steel. In this research, SYSWELD software developed by ESI Group is used to perform thermal-mechanical-metallurgical welding simulation during thermite welding of rail steel. The current article presents that research methodology used to formulate the prediction of microstructure developed in the heat-affected zone regions of thermite welding of railway steel. It is noted that this work attempts to evaluate how preheat, heat generation during chemical reaction, and possible post-weld heat treatment could be performed to controlled the microstructure of pearlitic rail steel using SYSWELD software. The results of this on-going research will be used as the baseline for future development of structural integrity program for improving joining of rail steel such as the design and selection of welding processes and materials involved for rail construction, especially when appropriate grades and welding procedures of rail steels must be chosen and developed to withstand the actual loading conditions.
Dissimilar metal joining by ultrasonic welding
Authors: Kovácsa Tünde , Vladárb Annamária , Pinkec Peter , Jaberd Hassanen
Published: November 2021

The dissimilar metal welding always challenges. The different alloys have different physical and mechanical properties. In the case of the electronic component of the car, it needs to establish a joint between dissimilar metals. The useful metals are for this application are copper and aluminium. Even that has good conductivity, corrosion resistance and formability. By fusion welding technologies these thin metal workpiece joining is not a simple technology. To use a solid state welding technology can be a suitable solution to establish a cohesion joint in case of this task. It well-known much suitable technologies, even that all of them has advantages and disadvantages. The choice of solid-state technology is the ultrasonic welding process. In the case of this process, we use pressure and high-frequency vibration for welding. Besides this process, the friction and vibration generated heat is lower than the metal melting temperature. The base of this technology is the ultrasound-assisted high-level formability. The optimization of this dissimilar joining technology parameters needs many pre-welding and testing process. In this work, we wanted to introduce this empirical optimization process.
AROHANA KRAMA MATRA BASTI IN JANU SANDHIGATA VATA: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Baboo Deeya , Narayan Prajwal , Puttur Ganesh
Published: November 2021

Ayurveda (Science of life) has explained about the pathogenesis and the treatment of various disorders, the incidence of some of which have increased in the present scenario due to altered diet habits and lifestyle. Janu Sandhigata Vata is one among the Vata Vyadhi which causes a lot of inconvenience and disability in day-to-day activities. It is compared to Osteoarthritis of knee in modern Science. In this case study, a female aged about 57 years presented in the OPD of SSCASRH, Bengaluru was diagnosed with Janu Sandhigata Vata of both the knee joints. Arohana Krama Matra Basti with Prasarini taila was planned as per Sharangadhara’s reference. There was significant improvement in the patient and was evaluated after treatment and also during follow up. There was marked relief with respect to her subjective complaints like pain, improved joint space, walking time, degree of flexion and extension & X ray. This type of Arohana Krama Matra Basti can be adopted in future for planning treatment in Janu Sandhigata Vata and also taken up in a larger group study to check for better relief, long term effect and reduced side effects. The case is further elaborated in the article
A REVIEW ON PHARMACEUTICAL VALIDATION AND ITS IMPORTANCE AND IMPUTATION
Authors: Mohankumar M , Sivakamasundari G
Published: November 2021

Validation is a notable step in fulfilling and keep the character of the last decision. In the event that every progress of the creative process is recognized, we can guarantee that the end result will be of the best quality. Validation is specialized for planning and rehearsing a closely planned step with documents. Verification and quality assurance are inseparable, which guarantees careful quality of products. The process validation underscores the components of the measurement scheme and adheres to the measurement control during commercialization and realizes that it is nothing more than a continuous program and adjust the measurement validation exercises with the item life cycle. The motivation behind this survey is to introduce a presentation and general disclosure on quantitative validation of pharmaceutical production with a unique note to the requirements specified by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Comparative Analysis of the Hypoglycaemic and Hypolipidemic Effects of Aqueous Extract of some Ethno medicinal Plants in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Kankara Idris Aliyu , Ibrahim Akos Noel , Ade Haruna
Published: November 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder associated with the development of metabolic complications. This research evaluated the hypoglycemic and hypolipidaemic effects of Moringa oleifera (MO), Treculia africana (TA) and Albizzia chevalieri (AC) plant extracts on diabetes. Albino rats were randomly divided into six (six) main groups; MC, MO, TA, AC, Normal Control (NC) and Diabetic Control (DC) groups. Group MO, TA and AC were further subdivide into three sub groups. Diabetes mellitus was induced by a single dose intraperitoneal injection of alloxan 150 mg/kg body weight. Fasting blood glucose level and lipid profile were assayed using standard methods. Intraperitoneal injection of 150 mg/kg of Alloxan in the albino rats resulted in significant (p<0.05) elevation of serum glucose, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL-C), and low density lipoprotein (LDL-C). Also, there was significant decrease (p<0.05) in HDL-C and body weight of the albino rats compared with that of the NC group. Oral administration of MO, TA and AC to diabetic albino rats for 21 days significantly (p<0.05) reduced fasting blood glucose level, normalized lipid profile and restore body weight of the albino rats in treated groups compared to diabetic control groups. All the plant extracts studied in this research significantly (p<0.05) increase the regeneration of damaged pancreatic β cells. Treatment with MO (800 mg/kg) confirmed highly significant (p<0.05) effect compared to TA and AC.
Hypolipidemic Potentials of Methanolic Extract of Rauvolfia vomitoria Leaves in Rats Fed with High Cholesterol
Authors: Owoade Abiodun Olusoji , Adetutu Adewale , Ogundipe Olufemi Ogundeji , Owoade Akinade William
Published: November 2021

The study was aimed to investigate the hypolipidemic potential of methanolic extract Rauvolfia vomitoria leaves in high cholesterol-fed rats. The preliminary study showed that R. vomitoria leaves were able to scavenge the 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sufonic acid) (ABTS) and 2-Diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and these radicals scavenging abilities were found to be dose-dependent. Administration of cholesterol to rats for 45 days induced a significant increase in the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and increase lipids levels in the plasma and tissues while HDL cholesterol was decreased. It also elevated the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in the tissues. However, co-administration of high cholesterol-fed rats with R. vomitoria extract at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly reversed lipids levels to near normal with cholesterol in the plasma, liver, heart, kidney and lung reduced by (23.13% and 56.43%), (30.09% and 20.90%), (38.21% and 74.53%), (12.61% and 32.49%) and (37.11% and 29.90%) respectively while HDL cholesterol level was increased by (225.44% and 110.39%). The levels of AST, ALT and ALP in the plasma and MDA in the tissues were also decreased while SOD activities in the liver, heart, kidney and lung were elevated by (89.35% and 149.21%), (74.91% and 68.35%), (56.76% and 114.77%), and (204.91% and 274.62%) respectively. The extract of R. vomitoria was found to be rich in phenolic content and was proved to have no toxic effects on rats when administered alone to normal rats at a dose level of 200mg/kg/day. The results obtained in this study demonstrated the antioxidant and lipid-lowering effects of R. vomitoria and, suggests that the plant could serve as a new potential natural product for the treatment of hyperlipidemia.
Essential Oil from Lemon Peel (Citrus lumion) and application in Skin-Care Lotion
Authors: Perpetua Oragwu Ifeoma , Shadrack C. U. Ugwu
Published: November 2021

Essential oil from peels of lemon (Citrus Lumion) fruit had been evaluated for its physiochemical, phytochemical compositions and application in skin-care product.  Lemon peel oil,  which is one of the under-utilized essential oil was  isolated from the matured fruits  peel using petroleum ether by soxhlet extraction method. The percentage  yield of 3.7 %,  for air-dried peels and 2.30 %, for fresh peels  are acceptable  for most plants essential oils. The ash content of both the dried and fresh peels were 1.42 ± 0.001 and 4.007±0.003. Some phytochemicals like, saponins, flavonoids, terpenes, carbohydrates, tannins, were determined using  standard methods.  The lemon-peel-oil skin-lotion formulation was  carried out by  mixing  5 ml   of the peel oil  sample  with corresponding  mass of basic lotion compositions, in water base-tank,  and homogenously mixed  in oil base-tank under 700 C.  The pH range(6.30), viscosity, spreadability,  and  properties  of the lotion were compared to the  non-lemon-oil lotion and to  a commercial grade skin lotion.
A Case-control Study on the Association of Mitochondrial Transcription Factor a Gene +35G/C Polymorphism and Mitochondrial DNA Copy Number with the Risk of Endometriosis in Indian Women
Authors: Beeram Himabindu , Reddy Tumu Venkat , Govatati Suresh , Siddamalla Swapna , Deenadayal Mamata , Shivaji Sisinthy , Bhanoori Manjula
Published: November 2021

Aim: The Mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) and mitochondrial (mt) DNA copy number variations are known to contribute in disease development. Genetic factors play an important role in the development of endometriosis. Therefore, this case–control study aimed to analyze the association of TFAM+35G/C polymorphism and mitochondrial copy number with the risk of endometriosis in Indian women.

Study Design: This study was carried out on 418 subjects including 200 endometriosis cases and 218 controls.

Methodology: Genotyping of TFAM +35G/C polymorphism (rs1937) was carried out by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Quantification of mtDNA copy number was carried out using a real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Osmania University, 2014 to 2020.

Results: TFAM genotype as well as allele distributions were all in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The results indicated a significant reduction of GG genotype frequency (P=0.009), high ‘C’ allele frequency (P=0.017) and significantly decreased mtDNA copy number in endometriosis cases compared to controls (P= 0.0001).

Conclusion: Present study revealed a statistically significant association of decreased GG genotype of TFAM +35G/C polymorphism and mtDNA copy number with the risk of developing endometriosis in Indian women.
Rainfall and Temperature Trends in Jagtial District of Telangana State
Authors: Navatha N. , Sreenivas G. , Umareddy R.
Published: November 2021

Aims: To investigate and assess the significance of the potential trend of two variables viz. rainfall, temperature in Jagtial district of Telangana state.

Place and Duration of Study: Data of Daily rainfall and temperature data of 39 years (1980-2019) collected from the meteorological observatory at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Polasa, Jagtial.

Methodology: In this study, trend analysis has been carried out on monthly, seasonal and annual basis using the data period between 1980 to 2019 for rainfall and temperature. Mann-Kendall test and Sen’s slope estimate test were applied to identify the existing trend direction and magnitude of change over time.

Results: The rainfall seasonal trend analysis indicates that pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon and winter period showed a negative rainfall trend with z statistics of-1.47, -2.51, -0.55 and-1.38 respectively. However, the annual rainfall showed a negative trend with a z value of -2.53. In the case of Sen’s slope shows that negative trend in monthly, seasonal and annual rainfall.  But the significant rising trend of monthly, seasonal average temperature is noticed from 1980 onwards. The annual average maximum temperature in the Jagtial showed an increasing trend (Z value +5.03). An increasing trend in the all seasons will lead to increase in annual mean temperature. The results of minimum temperature shows a rising trend and falling trend observed Monthly. However annual mean minimum temperature in the Jagtial District showed an increasing trend (Z value 0.10). In the case of maximum temperature for the observed period, it showed rising trend (Sen's slope = 0.63) while the minimum temperature trend showed no trend (Sen's slope = 0.02).

Conclusion: Time series was carried out using nonparametric M–K test and Sen's slope estimator, which are widely used tests for conducting trend analysis. Therefore, its take into think about the rainfall variability in particular and temperature variability in general of the area into their climate change adaptation approach.
Agro-Morphological Performances of Common Bean Varieties (Phaseolus vulgaris. L) Introduced in the Central African Republic
Authors: Touckia G. I. , Elian H. D. B. , Aba-Toumnou L. , Rekya F. A. , Orolo S. Ndaima , Zimaga D. B. , Yongo O. D. , Kokou K.
Published: November 2021

The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is one of the main legumes produced and consumed in the Central African Republic (CAR). But in CAR, the common bean production is constrained by certain biotic and abiotic stress which severely impacts the quantity and quality available in the value chain. To compensate this loss of the production, the Central African Institute for Agronomic Research (ICRA) had introduced in CAR ten varieties of common bean from Rwanda and Cameroon. A four-repeat randomized full-block device was used for testing the performances of these ten varieties of common bean. The measured variables were the vegetative growth, the production, and the sensibility to plant diseases. Overall, the different varieties exhibited a high germination rate (88.6%). The highest rate is observed in variety RWR2245 from Rwanda (100%). Varieties from Rwanda, RWR3194 with 1000 kg ha-1 and BOA5M1-6 with 916.66 kg ha-1 gave better yields followed by varieties Ecapan 025 from Cameroon with 833.33 kg ha-1 and RWR2245 with 833.33 kg ha-1. The yields obtained are roughly referred to the agronomical standard. The varieties NITOU and NUA566 from Rwanda were more susceptible to disease incidence and pest attacks compared to those from Cameroon.
Prevention and Control of Infections
Authors: Sebastian Robin , Gopalakrishnan . , Kumar P. Sanil , Prashanth Lal , Jose Darly
Published: November 2021

Over the last 10 years several new viral pathogens have appeared in human populations in India. We have also seen the emergence of infectious diseases like COVID-19. It is time to reassess our current practice patterns and commit to a ‘NEW STANDARD’ for infection prevention and control.

A two-tiered approach to precautions is used to interrupt the mode of transmission of infectious agents. Standard precautions to work practices that are applied to all patients receiving care in health facilities and Transmission-based precautions are precautions required to be taken based on the route of transmission of organisms like contact precautions, airborne precautions, etc.   If successfully implemented, standard and transmission-based precautions prevent any infection from being transmitted.
Prevalence of HBV and its Associated Risks Factors among Patients Accessing Care at a Secondary Health Facility in Ekiti State, Southwest, Nigeria
Authors: Daramola G. O. , Olofu B. E. , Edogun H. A. , Ojerinde A. O. , Ajayi O. D. , Fatoki A. , Egebbi A. , Jegede O. O. , Ogunfolakan O. O.
Published: November 2021

Viral hepatitis is a serious disease of the liver that can have grim prognosis in the absence of early and appropriate medical intervention. Globally, an estimated two billion people are reported to have been infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and out of this, more than 350 million are said to have chronic(long term) liver infection. The likelihood that Hepatitis B Virus infection will become chronic depends upon the age at which a person becomes infected. Young children who become infected with HBV are most likely to develop chronic infection. About 25% of adults who become chronically infected during childhood die from HBV related liver cancer or cirrhosis. According to WHO ranking of hepatitis prevalence, ≤ 1.9%, 2-7.9% and ≥ 8% are low, moderate and high prevalence respectively. Hepatitis is endemic in Ekiti State, there is therefore the need to know its prevalence in the major cities of Ekiti State. Since Ikere-Ekiti is the second major city of Ekiti State, therefore this study set out to know the prevalence of HBV-caused hepatitis in Ikere-Ekiti and its associated factors,. One hundred participants were enrolled- at the State specialist Hospital, Ikere-Ekiti- into the study after obtaining their informed consent. Consecutive sampling was used. Thirty-three (33%) of the subjects were males while 67 (67%) were females. Thirty-seven (37%) , 30 (30%) and 33 (33%) respectively fell were in the ≤26 years, 27-36 and ≥37 age-brackets. Fifty-two (52 %) were singles while 48 (48%) were married. Ninety-three (93%) were Christians while 7 (%) were Muslims. Structured self-administered questionnaires were served on the subjects. Five millilitres of blood were collected from each subject using venepuncture method. The samples were screened for the presence or otherwise of antibodies to HBsAg using a rapid test kit that worked on the principle of immunochromatography. An overall prevalence of 8% was discovered. Five (5%) of the positive subjects were males while 3 (%) were females (p=0.064). Half (50%) of the positive subjects were within the ≤26 years age-bracket, the 27-36 age-bracket had the least number of positive subjects (p=0.512).  Two out of the positive subjects had a history of blood transfusion (p=0.748), one had history of surgery (p=0.580). The imports and implications of these are here discussed. Since viral hepatitis is vaccine-preventable and herd immunity can only be achieved when the vast majority of a society acquires immunity against a particular infectious disease, the government is advised to strive to vaccinate at least 70% of the populace against viral hepatitis- a disease which is endemic, not only in Ekiti State, but in many parts of Nigeria.
The Effects of Magnification and Operator’s Experience on the Quality of Preclinical Dental Procedures
Authors: Wajngarten Danielle , Pazos Júlia Margato , Sasso Garcia Patricia Petromilli Nordi
Published: November 2021

Aims: This study evaluated the effect of magnification on the quality of preclinical class I cavity preparations according to operator’s experience.

Methodology: This was an experimental laboratory study. The response variable was the quality of Class I cavity preparations evaluated by the Class I Cavity Preparation Assessment - COCA. Class I cavity preparations were performed in all artificial first molars under four conditions: unaided visualization, using a simple loupe, using a Galilean loupe, and using a Keplerian loupe (N=640). The two-factor analysis of variance was performed (α=0.05).

Results: No interactions between operator’s experience and magnification device were found (p>0.05). Although, higher quality scores were given to cavity preparations in tooth #36 using the Galilean loupe compared to naked eye (p<0.01). The more experienced operator received higher quality scores for tooth #46 regardless of the magnification system used (µexperienced=7.0±2.3 and µinexperienced=5.4±2.4).

Conclusion: The use of magnification devices did not influence the quality of class I cavity preparations performed on tooth #16, 26, 46. Galilean loupe was associated with improved quality of the cavity preparation performed on tooth #36, and the operator’s experience influenced the quality of the preparation on tooth #46.
People's Knowledge and Practice of Salt Iodization, as Well as the Assessment of Iodine Content in Salt in the Cumilla Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Jahan Sadia , Hossain Md. Saddam , Bhuiyan Md. Anisur Rahman , Lisa Susmita Roy , Chadni Somaia Haque
Published: November 2021

Aim: To evaluate the household iodine content and knowledge, attitude, and behavior regarding salt iodization among the residents of Cumilla, Bangladesh.

Subjects and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 700 inhabitants in Cumilla's urban and rural areas to determine the iodine concentration of salt they consume. The participants were asked about what they know about iodine deficiency and salt iodization as well as how their salt was packaged and stored. Among them, 338 people provided a sample of salt to be tested of its iodine content by the titrimetric method.

Results: 46.57% of people knew that iodization was the best way to prevent iodine deficiency while 35.14% considered salt iodization during purchasing. Most people stored salt in plastic boxes (89.7%) and closed containers (84.14%).Among all participants, only 37.14% of people were aware of the iodine requirement during pregnancy.

In urban regions, the median iodine content was 36.76 ppm (OR=0.658, 95% CI, 0.469-0.925), while in rural areas, the median iodine content was 40.92 ppm (OR=1.188, 95% CI, 1.022-1.380). Iodine levels were less than 15 ppm (minimum limit) in 6.8% of samples and greater than 40 ppm (maximum limit) in 56.5%. Only 36.7% of the salt samples contained adequate iodine.

Conclusion: An effective and consistent approach for controlling iodine concentration in distributed salt is required at Cumilla, Bangladesh.
Prevalence, Clinical Profile and Outcome of Patients Presenting with Stroke
Authors: Thrinetrapriya N. Akshaya , Jagadeesan M.
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND: Stroke is a clinical condition that has a greatly increasing prevalence in the recent years owing to our ‘modern’ sedentary lifestyle. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence, risk factors, clinical presentation and outcome of patients presenting with stroke in a tertiary care hospital.

METHODOLOGY: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of General Medicine, Saveetha Medical College & Hospital, Thandalam, Chennai for a period of 4 months, i.e., from January 2021 to April 2021.Stroke patients who met the eligibility criteria were included in the study. All sociodemographic and clinical data were recorded by reviewing the patient and his medical records regularly. Scores like NIHSS (National Institute of Health Stroke Scale) score and mRS (modified Rankin scale) scores were calculated and TOAST categorisation was done. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software.

RESULTS: Out of 100 stroke patients, 65% were males and 35% were females. Mean age was 57.95 years. Ischemic strokes were seen in 85% of patients and the rest 15% had hemorrhagic stroke. The most common presentation was facial palsy (67%), followed by hemiparesis (62%) and hemiplegia (38%). The important risk factors were hypertension (70%), diabetes mellitus (48%) and obesity (42%). Based on mRS scores, 59% of the patients had bad outcome.

CONCLUSION: Hypertension and diabetes were the most common risk factor in our study population. Preventive measures include creating awareness, lifestyle changes and compliance to medications. National programmes on stroke prevention initiate and coordinate awareness campaigns to reduce the incidence, morbidity and mortality of stroke. Finally, a multidimensional approach involving the patient community, general population, medical fraternity and government authorities is essential to curtail this modern epidemic.
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Various Extracts from Safou (Dacryodes edulis) Cultivated in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Emmanuelle Sika Andrée , Léonce Kadji Romuald , Ouattara Lacinan , Dabonné Soumaïla , Koffi-Nevry Rose
Published: November 2021

Safou (Dacryodes edulis) is a fruit with very interesting nutritional and pharmacological properties. However, this fruit remains rather unknown to the Ivorian population.

Aims: The objective of this study was to highlight the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of the seed and pulp of Safou (Dacryodes edulis) cultivated in Côte d'Ivoire for its valorization.

Study Design: Microbiological and biochemical studies

Place and Duration of Study: Laboratory of Biotechnology and Food Microbiology,Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, between September 2020 and February 2021.

Methodology: Aqueous, ethanolic and methanolic extracts of the pulp and seed of Safou were prepared. Moisture content, pH, yield, total polyphenols,diphényl-2-picrylhydrazyle (DPPH) radical scavenging testof the different extracts were determined.Aqueous, ethanolicand methanolicextracts of the seed and pulp at varying concentrations of 200 mg/mL, 100 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL, 25 mg/mL, 12.5mg/mL and 6.25 mg/mL was tested against human pathogens such asEscherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiellapneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicilliumchrysogenum.

Results: pH, moisture content and yield ranged from 3.16 to 4.74; 9 to 18.30%; and 10.79 to 18.78%, respectively. Total polyphenol content ranged from 1.45 mgEAG/g to 4.56 mgEAG/g. The highest levels of total polyphenols were observed for the methanolic extracts of pulp. The different extracts strongly scavenged the DPPH radical with percentages of anti-free radical activity that varied from 50.76 to 64.43%.The antimicrobial susceptibility results of the methanolic extracts of D. edulis seed showed highest zones of inhibition to the microbial isolates tested. The microorganisms were resistant to the aqueous extracts of pulp and seed.

Conclusion: The presence of bioactive compounds and the antimicrobial activity of Safou extracts could justify its use in the food and pharmaceutical fields.
Carbon Fibers
Authors: Newcomb Bradley A.
Published: November 2021

Carbon fibers are primarily used as reinforcing materials to increase the strength and stiffness of advanced composites and are commonly manufactured using polyacrylonitrile (PAN), isotropic pitch, mesophase pitch, or regenerated cellulose as a precursor fiber material. Commercially available carbon fibers from PAN or pitch possess low density (1.75–2.20 g/cm3), high tensile strength (3–7 GPa) and tensile modulus (200–935 GPa), as well as high compressive strength (1–3 GPa) and compressive modulus (100–300 GPa). Continued development of alternative precursor materials and lower energy intensive stabilization and carbonization process improvements in the carbon fiber manufacturing process are underway.
Chitin and Chitosan
Authors: Gierszewska Magdalena , Struszczyk‐Świta Katarzyna , Hudson Samuel
Published: November 2021

Chitin is a structural polysaccharide widely found in nature. It occurs as highly ordered microfibrils in many species, such as yeast, fungi, insects, and marine invertebrates. Chitin is a homopolymer of 1‐4‐linked 2‐acetamido‐2‐deoxy‐β‐
d
‐glucopyranose, although some of the glucopyranose residues are deacetylated and occur as 2‐amino‐2‐deoxy‐β‐
d
‐glucopyranose. When chitin is deacetylated to more than 50% as the free amine form, it is referred to as chitosan. Biopolymerization of chitin is via the activated monomer
N
‐acetyl‐uridine diphosphate (UDP)‐glucosamine by synthase enzymes. The isolation of chitin is commonly from the shell fish waste of the shrimp and crab industries. Chitin is not soluble in any common solvents, while chitosan is dissolved in many common aqueous acid solutions. Industrially, chitin is mainly used as a powder and as a precursor to chitosan. Applications of chitosan are found in many primary industries, such as agriculture, paper, textiles, cosmetics, and waste water treatment. Chitosan has good film‐ and fiber‐forming properties. Many potential medical and pharmaceutical uses of chitosan have been described. It has also become a popular nutritional dietary additive.
Starch
Authors: Cai Xingzhe , Alee Mahafooj , Duan Qingfei , Liu Hongsheng , Chen Ling , Yu Long
Published: November 2021

Starch, among the other biopolymers, is a very appealing biopolymer, due to its abundant supply, intrinsic biodegradability, and yearly renewability. Because they are inexpensive substances and are flexible to be handled using ordinary machines of plastic processing, starches make an appealing low cost basis for novel biodegradable polymers. Meanwhile, the well‐known concerns of fossil fuel scarcity and the rising demand of reducing the pressure on the environment caused by the widespread usage of petrochemically produced polymers, the production, and uses of starch‐based materials that are biodegradable have attracted a lot of attention. This article begins with a discussion of starch structures in general, including both physical and chemical features. Then, starch‐based material thermal processing is explained, which covers both basic sciences such as phase transition, rheology, and microstructure and processing methodologies, formulations, and circumstances.

The multiphase transitions and distinct microstructure during heat processing make starch an excellent prototype system for illustrating and conceptualizing structure–processing–property connections in polymers. For processing starch‐based materials, several traditional methods, for example, injection compression molding, casting, and extrusion and few novel processes such as reactive extrusion have also been applied. Finally, the current advancements in starch‐based materials have been explained.
Scratch Behavior of Polymers
Authors: Molero Glendimar , Sue Hung‐Jue
Published: November 2021

The apparent simplicity of scratch deformation is deceiving. The viscoelastic nature and complex constitutive behavior of polymers contribute to the complexity of the scratch testing and analysis. This article discusses how various experimental factors and material parameters influence the scratch behavior of polymers. Furthermore, significant advances have been made in the modeling of polymer scratch behavior using finite element methods, which supplements the experimental findings to offer a comprehensive understanding about how damage forms and evolves during the scratching process. This article emphasizes how the surface characteristics, material properties, and stress state and its magnitude can profoundly influence scratch damage mechanisms. By understanding the relationship between material properties and scratch behavior, the material properties needed to prevent the formation of undesirable scratch damage can begin to be assessed and even predicted. It is hoped that the information in the present article can help scientists and engineers identify the factors governing the scratch performance of polymers in order to develop polymers with superior scratch‐proof properties for vast engineering applications.
How posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms affect memory for new events and their “hotspots” over a long delay
Authors: Nielsen Niels Peter , Berntsen Dorthe
Published: November 2021

Memory for traumatic events and their most distressing moments (hotspots) are typically examined in patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using retrospective memory reports for the index trauma. Effects of PTSD symptoms on memory for new (post‐trauma) events and their hotspots have received less attention. Here we used a prospective, experimental design to address this question. Participants completed measures of PTSD symptoms, were exposed to either an emotional (N = 54) or a neutral (N = 44) simulated event, reported hotspots, and rated them on memory characteristics. After a 1‐year delay, participants once again reported hotspots and rated their memory characteristics. PTSD symptoms obtained before the event predicted emotional intensity, bodily reaction, and distress associated with hotspots from the event after a 1‐year delay, irrespective of event type. This suggests that memory for events in general and not just memory of the index trauma is affected by PTSD symptoms.
Study finds psychosocial impacts of cannabis use disorder widespread
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2021

When cannabis use elevates to a problematic level that justifies a diagnosis of cannabis use disorder (CUD), the problems that individuals experience appear no less serious than those that characterize an alcohol use disorder (AUD), a newly published study has found. The results of the study, based on 2012–13 national survey data, would appear to counteract any perception of lesser harms associated with CUD compared with AUD.
Binge drinking likely to continue to rise
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2021

Dangerous binge drinking is going up among young adults but down in 18‐year‐olds — and it's the same cohort. In other words, you can't predict future alcohol use problems by 18‐year‐old behavior, as Katherine Keyes, Ph.D., M.P.H., associate professor of epidemiology at Columbia University, reported at the AMERSA conference this month.
Sustained recovery from SUD linked to higher achievements
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2021

The latest study from John Kelly and colleagues, funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, showed that individuals in recovery from substance use disorders have more “life achievements.” Based on an analysis of the 2017 recovery survey, the study, by Chestnut Health Systems and the Recovery Research Institute, showed that individuals in recovery had increased community engagement and enhanced well‐being, which went up as their time in recovery increased.
ONDCP's Drug‐Free Communities program reduces drug use
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2021

Since the inception of the Drug‐Free Communities program by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), the past 30‐day prevalence of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and prescription drug misuse has declined significantly among middle school and high school aged youth.
Impact Toughness of As‐Built and Heat‐Treated Near‐β Ti–5Al–5Mo–5V–3Cr–1Zr Alloys Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting and Electron Beam Melting
Authors: Cao Zhiqiang , Deng Hao , Qiu Wenbin , Chen Longqing , Wu Daijian
Published: November 2021

Herein, the effects of heat treatment on the microstructure evolution and impact toughness of selective laser‐melted (SLM) and electron beam‐melted (EBM) near‐β Ti–5Al–5Mo–5V–3Cr–1Zr (Ti55531) alloy specimens are systematically investigated. As fabricated SLM and EBM Ti55531 alloys contain metastable β and α + β microstructure, respectively. The metastable β microstructure of SLM‐fabricated Ti55531 is transformed to bilamellar, lamellar, and bimodal structure after supertransus triplex heat treatment, hot isostatic pressing and α/β solution and aging treatments, respectively. In the EBM‐fabricated Ti55531 specimens, the defects are effectively eliminated after hot isostatic pressing. The correlation between microstructure and impact toughness of as‐built and heat‐treated specimens are elucidated. Both SLM and EBM specimens with lamellar microstructure show a high impact toughness due to the deflecting effect on crack propagation of α lamella. In addition, hot isostatic pressing further enhance the impact toughness of EBM‐fabricated Ti55531 via eliminating the defects formed during the fabrication process. This work demonstrates that heat treatment is a potential way to tailor the microstructure and enhanced the impact toughness of additive manufactured near‐β Ti alloys.