bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Loud are Noise Levels of Baseball Stadium? Assessment of Noise Levels and Attitude toward the Stadium Noise in Korea
Authors: Lee Donguk , Han Woojae
Published: October 2019

This study measures the noise levels in a baseball stadium and analyzes baseball fans’ attitude of effect of recreational noise exposure on their hearing. In the baseball stadium, noise levels were measured in four seating sections using a sound level meter during the games. The LAeq average of the 16 measures produced 91.7 dBA, showing a significantly high noise level in the red and navy sections. As a function of frequency by LZeq analysis, the noise levels were significantly higher in low frequencies than other frequencies. For the survey sample, 688 randomly selected participants completed a 16-question survey on their noise exposure during the game and on the potential risk of hearing loss. Despite the very high noise levels, 70% of the respondents preferred sitting in either the red or the navy section to be closer to the cheerleaders and to obtain a good view. Most respondents reported that they did not consider wearing earplugs, and one-third experienced hearing muffled speech after the game. We conclude that the noise levels in baseball stadiums are high enough to cause hearing damage and/or tinnitus later, but expect these results to improve public education regarding safe noise exposure during popular sports activities.
Nutritional Imbalances in a Mexican Vegan Community: A Comparative Pilot Study
Authors: Espinosa-Marrón Alan , Nuñez-Issac Orlando , Villaseñor-Espinosa María Fernanda , Moreno-Enríquez Angélica , Sosa-Crespo Irving F. , Molina-Seguí Fernanda , Araujo-León Jesús Alfredo , Ferreyro-Bravo Fernando , Laviada-Molina Hugo
Published: October 2019

The vegan diet excludes animal-derived product consumption and health advantages had been reported when followed. However, heterogeneous eating habits, food availability, and sociocultural characteristics among regions could lead to different physiological results. The objective of this case-control cross-sectional pilot study was to analyze body composition, daily nutrients consumption, and basic serum biomarkers as a general overview of the health status of Mexican adults with a vegan diet for ≥3 years, randomly paired with omnivores. Body composition was assessed through bioelectric impedance analysis. Eating patterns were evaluated and daily nutrients intake was calculated. A complete blood count, glycated hemoglobin, cobalamin, and creatinine serum concentrations were analyzed. We hypothesized certain nutrient deficits and specific biomarker impairments originated from cultural particularities driving food selection in Mexicans following a plant-based diet. Body composition did not differ among groups. Lower protein, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, cobalamin, calciferol, fluoride, iodine, and selenium intake yet greater fiber, folic acid, vitamin E, copper, and molybdenum were observed in the plant-based group when compared with controls. Vegans presented lower cobalamin and creatinine serum concentrations. Hematologic abnormalities were prevalent in vegans. Insufficient consumption of several nutriments was identified in both dietary groups, suggesting that the local diet may be unbalanced, affecting both vegans and non-vegan individuals. However, vegans might present additional deficiencies, especially vitamin B12, with potential repercussions. Clinical and nutritional guidance is required in this particular population to avoid possible health adverse events.
Management of Non-Muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer: Quality of Clinical Practice Guidelines and Variations in Recommendations
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wang Yunyun , Weng Hong , Wang Danqi , Han Fei , Huang Qiao , Deng Tong , Wang xinghuan , Jin Yinghui
Published: October 2019

Background: Bladder cancer (BC) has become a major worldwide public health issue, especially non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). A flood of related clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have emerged; however, the quality and recommendations of the guidelines are controversial. We aimed to appraise the quality of the CPGs for NMIBC within the past 5 years and compare the similarities and differences between recommendations for therapies.
Methods: A systematic search to identify CPGs for NMIBC was performed using electronic databases (including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science), guideline development organizations, and professional societies from January 12, 2014 to January 12, 2019. The Appraisal of Guidelines Research & Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument was used to evaluate the quality of the guidelines. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis was performed to assess the overall agreement among reviewers.
Results: Nine CPGs were included. The overall agreement among reviewers was excellent. The interquartile range (IQR) of scores for each domain were as follows: scope and purpose 69.44% (35.42%, 85.42%); stakeholder involvement 41.67% (30.56%, 75.00%); rigour of development 48.96% (27.08%, 65.63%); clarity and presentation 80.56% (75.00%, 86.11%); applicability 34.38% (22.92%, 40.63%) and editorial independence 70.83% (35.42%, 85.42%). The NICE, AUA, EAU and CRHA/CPAM clinical practice guidelines consistently scored well in most domains.
It was generally accepted that the transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) and intravesical chemotherapy should be performed in the management of bladder cancer. The application of chemotherapy was highly controversial in high risk NMIBC. The courses of BCG maintenance were similar and included 3 years of therapy at full maintenance doses.
Conclusions: The quality of NMIBC guidelines within the past 5 years varied, especially regarding stakeholders, rigour and applicability. Despite many similarities, the recommendations had some inconsistencies in the details.
Regulation of the mTERT telomerase catalytic subunit by the c-Abl tyrosine kinase in mouse granulosa cells
Authors: Yaba Aylin , Agus Sami , Yildirim Ecem , Erdogan Cihan S. , Yilmaz Bayram
Published: October 2019

Background: Oocyte and granulosa cells (GCs) have bidirectional communication and GCs play an important role in folliculogenesis and proliferation of GCs is very important for the development of ovulatory follicle. DNA double-strand breaks activate c-Abl protein tyrosine kinase and c-Abl has a functional role in repairment of DNA and control of telomere. In this study, we hypothesized that c-Abl has a regulative role on mTERT in mouse ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) and we aimed to detect c-Abl and mTERT interaction in mouse primary culture of GCs.
Results: We showed c-Abl and mTERT immunolocalization in vivo and in vitro mouse GCs. c-Abl and mTERT were constitutively expressed in mouse granulosa cells and c-Abl presented more intense expression in granulosa cells than mTERT expression. The interaction of the c-Abl-mTERT is supported by the exhibition that c-Abl siRNA knockdown cells show decreased mTERT expression. We also present an interaction between c-Abl and mTERT by immunoprecipitation. In addition, our results indicated that the down-regulation of c-Abl was also accompanied by reduced expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in GCs.
Conclusions: We suggest that mTERT may associate with the c-Abl in mouse GCs and the interactions between c-Abl and mTERT suggest a role for c-Abl in the regulation of telomerase function and proliferation in mouse granulosa cells during folliculogenesis.
Staff expectations for the implementation of an electronic health record system: A qualitative study using Normalisation Process Theory
Authors: Mccrorie Carolyn , Benn Jonathan , Johnson Owen , Scantlebury Arabella
Published: October 2019

Background
Global evidence suggests a range of benefits for introducing electronic health record (EHR) systems to improve patient care. However, implementing EHR within healthcare organisations is complex and in the United Kingdom (UK), uptake has been slow. More research is needed to explore factors influencing successful implementation. This study explored staff expectations for change and outcome following procurement of a commercial EHR system by a large academic acute NHS hospital in the UK.
Methods
Qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 members of hospital staff who represented a variety of user groups across different specialities within the hospital. The four components of Normalisation Process Theory (Coherence, Cognitive participation, Collective action and Reflexive monitoring) provided a theoretical framework to interpret and report study findings.
Results
Health professionals had a common understanding for the rationale for EHR implementation (Coherence). There was variation in willingness to engage with and invest time into EHR (Cognitive participation) at an individual, professional and organisational level. Collective action (whether staff feel able to use the EHR) was influenced by context and perceived user-involvement in EHR design and planning of the implementation strategy. When appraising EHR (Reflexive monitoring), staff anticipated short and long-term benefits. Staff perceived that quality and safety of patient care would be improved with EHR implementation, but that these benefits may not be immediate. Some staff perceived that use of the system may negatively impact patient care. The findings indicate that preparedness for EHR use could mitigate perceived threats to the quality and safety of care.
Conclusions
Health professionals looked forward to reaping the benefits from EHR use. Variations in level of engagement suggest early components of the implementation strategy were effective, and that more work was needed to involve users in preparing them for use. A clearer understanding as to how staff groups and services differentially interact with the EHR as they go about their daily work was required. The findings may inform other hospitals and healthcare systems on actions that can be taken prior to EHR implementation to reduce concerns for quality and safety of patient care and improve the chance of successful implementation.
A novel electrochemical aptasensor for fumonisin B1 determination using DNA and exonuclease-I as signal amplification strategy
Authors: Wei Min , Zhao Fei , Feng Shuo , Jin Huali
Published: October 2019

In this work, using DNA and exonuclease-I (Exo-I) as signal amplification strategy, a novel and facile electrochemical aptasensor was constructed for fumonisin B1 (FB1) detection. The G-rich complementary DNA (cDNA) was immobilized onto the electrode surface. Then, aptamer of FB1 was hybridized with cDNA to form double-stranded DNA. In the absence of FB1, double-stranded DNA and G-rich cDNA on the electrode surface promoted effectively methylene blue (MB) enrichment and amplified the initial electrochemical response. In the presence of FB1, the combination of aptamer and FB1 led to the release of aptamer from the electrode surface and the expose of 3' end of single-stranded cDNA. When Exo-I was added onto the electrode surface, the single-stranded cDNA was degraded in the 3’-5’ direction. The decrease of double-stranded DNA and G-rich cDNA resulted in the less access of MB to the electrode surface, which decreased the electrochemical signal. The experimental conditions including incubation time of FB1, the amount of Exo-I and incubation time of Exo-I were optimized. Under the optimal conditions, the linear relationship between the change of peak current and the logarithmic concentration of FB1 was observed in the range of 1.0×10-3-1000ng·mL−1 with a low limit of detection of 0.15 pg·mL−1. The experimental results showed that the prepared aptasensor had acceptable specificity, reproducibility, repeatability and stability. Therefore, this proposed aptasensor has a potential application in the food safety detection.
Magnetic Resonance Enterography, Colonoscopy, and Fecal Calprotectin correlate in colonic Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Somwaru Alexander S. , Khanijow Vikesh , Katabathina Venkat S.
Published: October 2019

ABSTRACT
Background: Fecal calprotectin (FCP), magnetic resonance enterography (MRE), and colonoscopy are complementary biometric tests that are used to assess patients with Crohn’s Disease (CD). While prior studies have evaluated the association between combinations of these tests, no study has established a correlation between all three: FCP, MRE, and colonoscopy. We prospectively investigated if there is correlation between these three tests, which may result in improved clinical outcomes that can then be used to streamline patient monitoring and treatment modification.
Methods: 156 patients with colonic CD were prospectively examined between March 2017 and December 2018. FCP levels, MRE, and colonoscopy were assessed in parallel on all 156 patients. Clinical CD activity was measured with the Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (CDAI). CD activity with FCP was measured with a quantitative immunoassay. CD activity on MRE was measured with the Magnetic Resonance Index of Activity (MaRIA). CD activity on colonoscopy was measured with the Crohn’s Disease Endoscopic Index of Severity (CDEIS).
Results: 112 patients (72%) had active disease (Crohn’s Disease Activity Index > 150) and 44 patients (28%) were in clinical remission disease (Crohn’s Disease Activity Index < 150). FCP levels, MaRIA, and CDEIS are highly correlated with positive and significant Pearson and Spearman coefficients, respectively (P < 0.0001), in univariate analyses. Regression analysis (multivariate analyses) demonstrates significant, positive correlation between FCP and MaRIA (r = 1.07, P < 0.0001) and between FCP and CDEIS (r = 0.71, P = 0.03), and between
MaRIA and CDEIS (r = 0.63, P = 0.01).
Conclusions: FCP levels significantly correlate with the degree of active inflammation in patients with colonic Crohn’s Disease. Improved clinical results may be achieved by using a biometric strategy that incorporates FCP, colonoscopy, and MRE together. This strategy may in-turn be used in the future to streamline monitoring disease activity and adjustment of therapy to improve long term patient outcomes.
Effect of Calcium on the Interaction of Acinetobacter baumannii with Human Respiratory Epithelial Cells
Authors: Chen Yi , Shao Tingjun , Fang Sanhua , Pan Ping , Jiang Jiahui , Cheng Tongtong , Wan Haitong , Yu Daojun
Published: October 2019

Background: Investigating the factors that influence Acinetobacter baumannii (Ab) adhesion/invasion of host cells is important to understand its pathogenicity. Metal cations have been shown to play an important role in regulating the biofilm formation and increasing the virulence of Ab; however, the effect of calcium on host-bacterial interaction has yet to be clarified. Here, the dynamic process of the interaction between Ab and human respiratory epithelial cells and the effect of calcium on host-bacterial interaction were explored using the technologies of microscopic imaging, quantitative PCR and real time cellular analysis (RTCA).
Results: The concentration of calcium, multiplicity of infection and co-culture time were demonstrated to have effects on host-bacterial interaction. A unique "double peak" phenomenon changed to a sharp "single peak" phenomenon during the process of Ab infection under the effect of calcium were determined based on the time-dependent cell response profiles. Moreover, calcium can increase Ab adhesion/invasion of epithelial cells by regulating the expression of Ab-related genes ( ompA , bfmRS , abaI ).
Conclusions: Effective control of calcium concentrations can provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of multi-drug resistant Ab.
Effects of low glycemic index/high-fat, high-calorie diet compared to the high-fat, high-calorie diet on glycemic control, lipid profile, and inflammatory markers in children and adolescence with cystic fibrosis: A study protocol for a randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial
Authors: Gorji Zahra , Modaresi Mohammadreza , Yekanni-Nejad Saeed , Mahmoudi Maryam
Published: October 2019

Background: Inflammation plays an important role in pathogenesis of cystic fibrosis, and diet is considered as an effective factor in controlling inflammation. Low glycemic index diet seems to be effective for improving glycemic control and reducing the inflammation and lipid profile. Hence, this study was planned to compare the effects of a low glycemic index/high fat, high calorie diet with the high fat, high calorie diet on glycemic status, lipid profile, and inflammatory markers in patients with cystic fibrosis. Methods: A total of 60 children and adolescence with cystic fibrosis will be randomized to receive a high fat, high calorie diet (n=30) or low glycemic index/high fat, high calorie diet (n=30) with similar calorie and macronutrients composition, for three months. Patients in high fat, high calorie diet arm will be able to use all sources of carbohydrates with different glycaemic indices; while those in another arm will be received their carbohydrate from low glycemic index sources. Before and after the intervention, serum levels of lipid profile (triglyceride, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol), insulin, glucose, HbA1c, the homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance index, and some inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, and IFNγ) will be measured. Discussion: To our knowledge, this study will be the first to examine the effects of a low glycemic index/high fat, high calorie diet compared to the high fat, high calorie diet in cystic fibrosis patients. The findings of this study might provide evidence to improve the nutritional status and immune system as well as to prevent the disease complications in these patients.
Efficacy of high dose versus low dose vitamin D supplementation on serum levels of inflammatory factors and mortality rate in severe traumatic brain injury patients: study protocol for a randomized placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Arabi Seyed Mostafa , Sedaghat Alireza , Ehsaei Mohammadreza , Safarian Mohammad , Ranjbar Golnaz , Rezaee Hamid , Rezvani Reza , Tabesh Hamed , Norouzy Abdolreza
Published: October 2019

Background Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is the most common trauma worldwide and is a leading cause of injury-related death and disability. Inflammation is a major problem among TBL patients which is in association with severity of illness and mortality in brain trauma patients, especially in subdural hemorrhage and epidural hemorrhage cases. A high percentage of adults admitted to the intensive care unit with critical conditions are diagnosed with vitamin D-deficiency, this deficiency may induce impaired immune responses and increase the risk of infections. Vitamin D intervention has been shown to modulate pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in non-critically ill patients, but to date, there is no substantial data on the effectiveness of vitamin D for the improvement of immune function in traumatic brain injury patients.Methods/design A randomized clinical trial (RCT) will be performed on 74 Iranian adults 18-65 years old with brain trauma, and will be treated daily by vitamin D supplements (100000 IU oral drop) or a similar placebo (1000 IU) for 5 days.Discussion If this randomized clinical trial elucidates reduction in inflammatory cytokines, it would provide the evidence for multi-central clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in neuro -critically ill patients. Since vitamin D supplements are inexpensive and safe, this clinical trial could have the potential to improve clinical outcomes in traumatic brain injury patients through reduction of inflammation and infection associated morbidity and mortality rates.
Development and validation of a risk-prediction nomogram for chronic low back pain using a national health examination survey
Authors: Park Jiwon , Kim Jung-Taek , Park Sang-Min , Kwon Ohsang , Kim Hyoungmin , Kim Ho-Joong , Yeom Jin S. , Chang Bong-Soon
Published: October 2019

Background Several prognostic factors for chronic low back pain (CLBP) have been reported. However, there is no study regarding the prediction of CLBP development in general population, using a risk prediction model. Based on this background, the aims of this study were: (1) to develop and validate a risk prediction model for CLBP (chronic low back pain) development in the general population, and (2) to create a nomogram which can help a person at risk of developing CLBP to receive appropriate counseling on risk modification.Methods Data on CLBP development, demographics, socioeconomic history, and comorbid health condition of participants were obtained through a nationally representative health examination and survey from 2007 to 2009. Prediction models for CLBP development were derived for health survey on a random sample of 80% of the data and were validated in the remaining 20%. After developing the risk prediction model for CLBP development, this model was incorporated into a nomogram.Results Data for 17,038 participants were finally analyzed, including 2,693 with CLBP and 14,345 without. The finally selected risk factors included age, gender, occupation, education level, mid-intensity physical activity, depressive symptom, and comorbidities. This model had good predictive performance in the validation dataset (concordance statistic = 0.7569, Hosmer-Lemeshow chi-square statistic = 12.10, p =.278). The findings indicated no significant differences between the observed probability and predicted probability according to our model.Conclusions The risk prediction model, presented by a nomogram, which is a score-based prediction system, could be incorporated into the clinical setting. Thus, our prediction model with a nomogram can help a person at risk of developing CLBP to receive appropriate counseling on risk modification from primary physicians.
Relationship between interleukin-18-607C/A gene polymorphism and severity of enterovirus-71 encephalitis in Chinese children
Authors: Song Jie , Liu Yedan , Qu Zhenghai , Guo Ya , Liu Peipei , Li Fei , Zhang Na , Wu Sifei , Fan Fan , Chen Zongbo
Published: October 2019

Background: Interleukin-18 (IL-18), a pro-inflammatory cytokine encoded by IL-18 and known as interferon (IFN)-γ inducing factor, plays an important role in the innate immune system. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of IL-18-607C/A have been reported to be associated with many infectious and immune-related diseases. However, there is no evidence of its association with enterovirus 71 (EV71)-infectious encephalitis. This study aimed to explore the association between the promoter region polymorphisms (-607C/A) of IL-18 and the severity of EV71 encephalitis in Chinese children.Methods: We analyzed the polymorphisms of IL-18-607C/A in 185 EV71-infected patients and 214 controls for genetic association research. Clinical features and auxiliary examination results were collected and compared in the cases. The serum concentration of IFN-γ was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Results: The frequency of IL-18-607 AA genotype and allele in EV71-infected patients was significantly higher than that in the controls (32.4% vs 21.5%, P=0.042, 55.1% vs 46.0%, P=0.001). Furthermore, a difference was found in severe EV71 and mild encephalitis cases (53.0% vs 20.5%, P=0.003, 67.3% vs 50%, P=0.016). The serum concentration of IFN-γ in patients with encephalitis was much lower in AA genotypes (106.0±8.9 pg/mL) than in CA and CC genotypes (120.4±8.9 and 128.1±7.5 pg/mL, respectively, P<0.001). The duration of fever and blood glucose level was obviously higher in AA than in CA and CC genotypes.Conclusions: Children with IL-18-607AA genotype were more susceptible to developing severe EV71-associated encephalitis in this study in China.
The middle-aged and elderly urban residents’ individual perceptions of PM2.5 pollution and its influencing factors in Wuxi, China
Authors: Chen Qi , Zhang Jiayao , Xu Yan , Sun Hong , Ding Zhen
Published: October 2019

Background PM 2.5 pollution has become a major public health concern in urban China. Understanding the residents’ individual perceptions toward haze pollution is critical for policymaking and risk communication. However, the perceptions of middle-aged and elderly residents, who particularly vulnerable to haze pollution, are poorly understood. Methods A cross-sectional study of 400 randomly sampled individuals (aged 40 to 90 years) was conducted in Wuxi, a typical PM 2.5 -polluted city. Each participant’s demographic and health information, individual perception and pulmonary function outcomes were collected to explore the relationship between personal characteristics and pulmonary function parameters and perception factors. Results We found that the mean values for controllability (4.99 ± 2.78) and dread of self-risk (6.90 ± 2.45) were the lowest and the highest values, respectively, in our study. Education and average family income were positively related with all individual perception factors, while age was negatively associated. A history of respiratory disease was positively associated with all individual perception factors except controllability . Significant positive associations were observed between PEF (coefficients ranged from 0.18 to 0.22) and FEF75% (coefficients ranged from 0.18 to 0.29) with a variety of individual perception factors. Conclusions There was a lack of concern and knowledge, weak self-protection consciousness and a strong dread of PM 2.5 pollution among the middle-aged and elderly residents in Wuxi. Their individual perceptions were associated with age, education levels, average family income, history of respiratory disease and pulmonary function outcomes. Our findings may help policymakers develop effective policies and communication strategies to mitigate the hazards of haze among older residents.
Minimum acceptable diet and stunting among children aged 6-23 months in Dalit and Non-Dalit and associated factors: A cross-sectional comparative study of Dhanusha district, Nepal
Authors: Sah Anil Kumar , Paudel Rajan , Devkota Madhu Dixit , Sigdel Ramesh , Pandey Ashok
Published: October 2019

Background The complementary feeding practices are essential for development and survival of infant and young child, it reduces the risk of under-nutrition. The aim of the study was to assess the status and identify factors associated with minimum acceptable diet and stunting among children aged 6-23 months in Dalit and Non-Dalit.Methods A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in Dhanusha district among mother who has 6-23 months children. Altogether 599 respondents were taken of which 299 were from Dalit and 300 from Non-Dalit and used multistage simple random sampling. Interview and anthropometry measurement were used for data collection technique and structure questionnaire as a tool. Descriptive and inferential analyses were done by using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS).Results The prevalence of minimum acceptable diet (MAD) and stunting were 43.8% and 49.9% among Dalit while 44.3%, and 39% among Non-Dalit. The MAD were significantly associated with the age of child (AOR=0.25, 95 CI: 0.11-0.54), child illness in the past two weeks (AOR=4.31, 95% CI: 1.56-11.88) and child of mother who had no knowledge on child feeding (AOR=0.31, 95% CI: 0.16-0.61) among Dalit while age of child (AOR=0.37, 95 CI: 0.21-0.64), child illness in past two weeks (AOR=4.80, 95% CI: 2.23-10.32, child mother who had no knowledge on child feeding (AOR=0.26, 95% CI: 0.16-0.42) and birth interval (AOR=1.92, 95% CI: 1.56-3.19) among Non-Dalit. Stunting was significantly associated with family types (AOR=1.93, 95% CI: 1.11-3.34) among Dalits while Ante Natal Care (ANC) visit (AOR=3.20, 95% CI: 1.15-8.90), media exposure (AOR=3.10, 95% CI: 1.11-8.64 and age of child (AOR=0.24, 95% CI: 0.10-0.57) in Non-Dalit.Conclusion This study shows that the age of child, child illness and knowledge on child feeding are the key associated factors of the MAD practices in both Dalits and Non-Dalits, while birth interval also among Non-Dalits. Similarly, family type is a key associated factors of stunting in Dalits while age of child, ANC visit and media exposure among Non-Dalits. Community based awareness raising appropriates child feeding and nutrition and related implementation program could be needed for improving the nutritional status of children.
Trends in Measures of Handgrip Strength from 2014 to 2017 Among Korean Adolescents using the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data
Authors: Kang Yunkoo , Lim Hyunjung , Kim Do-Yeon , Kim Seung , Park Sowon , Koh Hong
Published: October 2019

Background: The incidence of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease among adolescents is increasing worldwide. Adolescents are also known to have sarcopenia along with these diseases. Measuring handgrip strength is a useful method to evaluate sarcopenia. No study has shown the trends of muscle quality (handgrip-to-weight) among Korean adolescents by year. This study aimed to determine the trends of handgrip strength among Korean adolescents using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). Methods: Data of 2,304 adolescents (1,227 boys; 1,077 girls; age, 10–18 years) who participated in the KNHANES between 2014 and 2017 were obtained. Muscle quality was estimated by dividing handgrip strength by body weight (handgrip-to-weight ratio). The handgrip-to-weight ratios were categorized by age, sex, and year. Results: Handgrip strength in adolescents decreased from 28.67kg in 2014 to 27kg in 2017. (P for trend<0.05) The handgrip-to-weight ratio also decreased from 51.48 in 2014 to 48.18 in 2017 (P for trend<0.05). The handgrip strength and handgrip-to-weight ratio also decreased significantly among boys and girls over the years 2014–2017 (P for trend<0.05). Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate that the handgrip-to-weight ratio decreased in Korean adolescents from the years 2014 to 2017, and a declining overall ratio indicates a decrease in the quality of muscles among Korean adolescents. Hence, there is a need to review the health of Korean adolescents, and measures should be taken to prevent its deterioration.
DAKWAH TRANSFORMATIF KIAI (Studi terhadap Gerakan Transformasi Sosial KH. Abdurrahman Wahid)
Authors: Muhyiddin Ahmad Shofi
Published: October 2019

Artikel ini mengangkat tentang dakwah transformasi sosial KH. Abdurrahman Wahid di Indonesia. Artikel ini setidaknya membuktikan bahwa perubahan strategi, metode dan orientasi dakwa berkontribusi signifikan terhadap transformasi sosial di kalangan masyarakat. Sumber utama penelitian ini adalah data berupa metode, strategi dan orientasi dakwah dan tindakan sosial yang dilakukan oleh KH. Abdurrahman Wahid sebagai fungsionaris agama, sebagai tokoh politik dan tokoh budaya. Untuk memahami metode, strategi, orientasi dan tindakan sosial KH. Abdurrahman Wahid dalam upaya transformasi sosial digali melalui metode kualitatif dengan cara pembacaan terhadap karya-karyanya, karya cendekiawan terkait dengannya, pengamatan semasa ia masih hidup dan wawancara, kemudian diperkaya dengan metodologi dan disiplin ilmu sosiologi komunikasi dan sosio-antropologi agama. Temuan artikel ini menunjukkan bahwa transformasi sosial-budaya di Indonesia di antaranya terjadi karena adanya perubahan materi, metode, strategi dan orientasi dakwah KH. Abdurrahman Wahid sebagai fungsionaris agama, katalisator, penghubung sumber, pemberi pemecahan masalah dan mediator. Dengan demikian, artikel ini membuktikan bahwa Kiai, khususnya KH. Abdurrahman Wahid, bukan saja berperan sebagai penyampai pesan agama, makelar budaya dan mediator, tapi lebih dari itu, sebagai pemberi pemecahan masalah, pemicu proses, dan pendamping masyarakat, bahkan sebagai “tuhan” kaum minoritas yang tertindas.
ANALISIS WACANA TEUN A. VAN DIJK TERHADAP PESAN KOMUNIKASI DAKWAH HABIB LUTHFI BIN YAHYA TENTANG BELA NEGARA
Authors: Lia Yudha
Published: October 2019

ABSTRACT

The issue of the khilafah ideology will replace the Republic of Indonesia which is carried out by radical groups as a threat that can divide the nation and erode the love of the country which has long been fostered by the Indonesian nation. This concern was felt by Habib Lutfi who always preached with the theme of Indonesianness, history, nationality, tolerance, and said that difa'il wathon was obligatory. Discourse analysis on the dakwah message of Habib Lutfi using the theory of discourse analysis Teun A. Van Dijk outlines several things about the dakwah defense of the state. Habib Luthfi gave a renewal discourse about defending the country, namely radicalism can be resisted by studying the history of the nation, giving achievements to the state, as well as moderate and tolerant beliefs by continuing to create peace with fellow citizens.

 

 

ABSTRAK

Isu ideologi khilafah akan menggantikan NKRI yang dilakukan oleh kelompok radikal menjadi ancaman yang dapat memecah belah bangsa serta mengikis rasa cinta tanah air yang telah lama dibina bangsa Indonesia. Kekhawatiran tersebut dirasakan oleh Habib Luthfi yang selalu berdakwah dengan tema keindonesiaan, sejarah, kebangsaan, toleransi, hingga berfatwa bahwa difa’il wathon adalah wajib. Analisis wacana terhadap pesan dakwah Habib Luthfi dengan menggunakan teori analisis wacana Teun A. Van Dijk menguraikan beberapa hal tentang dakwah bela negara. Habib Luthfi memberikan wacana pembaruan tentang bela negara, yaitu radikalisme dapat dilawan dengan cara mempelajari sejarah bangsa, memberikan prestasi kepada negara, serta berakidah moderat dan toleran dengan terus menciptakan perdamaian kepada sesama warga negara.
Pemberdayaan Sekolah Islam untuk Meningkatkan Kompetensi Profesionalisme Guru di Kabupaten Semarang
Authors: Karim Abdul , Suharno Yusak , Arwani Wawan
Published: October 2019

Tujuan khusus dari penelitian ini adalah mengukur dampak pemberian perlakuan pemberdayaan sekolah Islam melalui pemberian motivasi guru dalam melaksanakan program pengembangan keprofesian berkelanjutan, peningkatkan kualitas dan kuantitas program pengembangan keprofesian berkelanjutan, peningkatkan kualitas dan kuantitas karya khususnya karya pengembangan penelitian tindakan kelas hingga berbentuk pelaporan hasil, peningkatan kemampuan pemilihan kesesuaian metode statistik dalam evaluasi pembelajaran dan penelitian tindakan kelas dengan penggunaan komputer. Tujuan tesebut diselesaikan menggunakan metode workshop dengan teknik presentasi materi dilanjutkan dengan diskusi, teknik klinik, dan pendampingan. Guru yang menjadi mitra berasal dari Sekolah Menengah Kejuruan (SMK) Nahdatul Ulama (NU) Ungaran Kabupaten Semarang yang dilaksanakan pada tahun 2018. Hasil capaian dari kegiatan program kemitraan masyarakat bagi guru SMK NU Ungaran tercermin dari para guru memiliki tren persepsi positif tentang jenjang karir guru, program keprofesian berkelanjutan, serta memahami lebih lanjut tentang penelitian tindakan kelas dan evaluasi pembelajaran.
Implementation and evaluation of the water safety plan approach for buildings
Authors: Schmidt Isabelle , Rickert Bettina , Schmoll Oliver , Rapp Thomas
Published: October 2019

The World Health Organization (WHO) promotes water safety plans (WSPs) – a risk-based management approach – for premise plumbing systems in buildings to prevent deterioration of drinking-water quality. Experience with the implementation of WSPs in buildings were gathered within a pilot project in Germany. The project included an evaluation of the feasibility and advantages of WSPs by all stakeholders who share responsibility in drinking-water safety. While the feasibility of the concept was demonstrated for all buildings, benefits reported by building operators varied. The more technical standards were complied with before implementing WSP, the less pronounced were the resulting improvements. In most cases, WSPs yielded an increased system knowledge and awareness for drinking-water quality issues. WSPs also led to improved operation of the premise plumbing system and provided benefits for surveillance authorities. A survey among the European Network of Drinking-Water Regulators on the existing legal framework regarding drinking-water safety in buildings exhibited that countries are aware of the need to manage risks in buildings' installations, but experience with WSP is rare. Based on the successful implementation and the positive effects of WSPs on drinking-water quality, we recommend the establishment of legal frameworks that require WSPs for priority buildings whilst accounting for differing conditions in buildings and countries.
El fortalecimiento de la competencia argumentativa de los aprendientes de ELE (Español como Lengua Extranjera) a través de la publicidad colombiana
Authors: Aponte-Buitrago Andrea Lorena , Cardozo-Rincón Gerardo
Published: October 2019

Este artículo presenta diversos aspectos de una investigación sobre la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de ELE (Español como Lengua Extranjera). El objetivo general consistió en mejorar la competencia argumentativa de los aprendientes de ELE, a través de la publicidad colombiana. El propósito de esta investigación fue seleccionar, diseñar, aplicar, analizar, rediseñar y publicar una cartilla con diversas actividades relacionadas con los textos argumentativos utilizando mensajes publicitarios colombianos. Cabe destacar que esta investigación tuvo en cuenta los parámetros del Marco Común Europeo de Referencia para las Lenguas (MCERL), relacionados con el nivel intermedio (B2) y avanzado (C1 y C2) de español, es decir que los extranjeros con quienes se trabajó estaban en estos niveles. Posteriormente, con base en el análisis de la información, se diseñó la cartilla final impresa y en un software. De acuerdo con los objetivos planteados, desde la teoría de la metodología de la investigación, se aclara que la investigación fue de tipo investigación acción. El enfoque fue mixto, ya que incluyó tanto el cualitativo como el cuantitativo. Se optó por el método inductivo porque para la aplicación y para el análisis de la información y la publicación posterior de la cartilla, se contó con la participación de tres extranjeras que visitaron la Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia (UPTC) o la ciudad de Tunja. Se consideró la observación directa como técnica. Como conclusión, se detectó que la publicidad colombiana sirvió como herramienta para el fortalecimiento de la competencia argumentativa de los aprendientes de ELE. Además, los extranjeros tuvieron la oportunidad de aprender léxico y expresiones nuevas provenientes de los mensajes publicitarios y pudieron conocer aspectos sobre la cultura colombiana y tunjana.
Stan wyższej konieczności w Kodeksie cywilnym
Authors: Nycz Maciej
Published: October 2019

Artykuł dotyczy tematyki na pograniczu prawa rzeczowego i zobowiązań. Stan wyższej konieczności jest określony w dwóch przepisach Kodeksu cywilnego – art. 142 i 424. Pierwszy z przepisów przewiduje uprawnienie dla ratującego dobro prawne do wkroczenia w sferę własności, przez co działa on legalnie. Mimo tego, w razie powstania szkody właściciel ma roszczenie do ratującego o kompensację szkody. Drugi z przepisów stanowi kontratyp, a więc okoliczność wyłączającą bezprawność. Oba te przepisy posługują się zbliżonymi konstrukcjami, a za największą różnicę należy uznać sposób uznawania kolizji dóbr. Problematyczna jest kwestia wzajemnego stosunku przepisów. Z przeprowadzonej analizy wynika, iż relację art. 142 do 424 k.c. można określić jako rozłączną, co wyklucza stosowanie obu przepisów naraz, a dopuszcza żądanie odszkodowania przez właściciela rzeczy na podstawie art. 142 k.c. Kwalifikacja nie zmieni się, jeśli uzna się art. 424 k.c za przepis wyłączający odpowiedzialność cywilną in genere; wtedy za lex specialis uzna się art. 142 k.c., a więc wyjątkowo dopuszczający żądanie odszkodowania w wypadku działania w stanie wyższej konieczności określonym w art. 424 k.c.
Utilization of a Single Experimental Design for the Optimization of Furosemide Modified-Release Tablet Formulations
Authors: Vlachou Marilena , Siamidi Angeliki , Dotsikas Yannis
Published: October 2019

Background:

The loop diuretic drug furosemide is widely used for the treatment of edema in
various conditions, such as pulmonary, cardiac and hepatic edema, as well as cardiac infarction. Furosemide,
due to its poor water solubility and low bioavailability after oral administration of conventional
dosage form, is categorized as class IV in the biopharmaceutical classification system.

Objective:

In the case of furosemide, this release profile is responsible for various physiological problems,
acute diuresis being the most serious. This adverse effect can be circumvented by the modified
release of furosemide from tablet formulations compared to those forms designed for immediate release.

Method:

In this report, a D-optimal combined experimental design was applied for the development of
furosemide containing bilayer and compression coated tablets, aiming at lowering the drug’s burst release
in the acidic environment of the stomach. A D-optimal combined design was selected in order to
include all requirements in one design with many levels for the factors examined. The following responses
were selected as the ones reflecting better criteria for the desired drug release: dissolution at 120
min (30-40%), 300 min (60-70%) and 480 min >95%. The new formulations, suggested by the Doptimal
combined design, incorporated different grades of Eudragit ® polymers (Eudragit® E100 and
Eudragit® L100-55), lactose monohydrate and HPMC K15M. The dissolution profile of furosemide
from these systems was probed via in vitro dissolution experiments in buffer solutions simulating the
pH of the gastrointestinal tract.

Results:

The results indicate that the use of Eudragit® E100 in conjunction with lactose monohydrate
led to 21.32-40.85 % drug release, in the gastric medium, in both compression-coated and bilayer tablets.
This is lower than the release of the mainstream drug Lasix® (t=120 min, 44.5% drug release), implying
longer gastric retention and drug waste minimization.

Conclusion:

Furosemide’s release in the intestinal environment, from compression coated tablets incorporating
Eudragit® L100-55 and HPMC K15M in the inner core or one of the two layers of the bilayer
tablets, was delayed, compared to Lasix®
Influence of Exogenous Variables on Intrusion Depth of PMMA Bone Cement: Revision of ISO 5833 Standard
Authors: Lewis Gladius , Zhang Liang
Published: October 2019

Background:

Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) bone cement is widely used to anchor
total joint replacements to the contiguous bone. Among the clinically-relevant properties of this material
is its intrusion depth (ID) because it indicates the potential for interdigitation of the curing cement
into the interstices of the cancellous bone. ID is determined using procedures stipulated in ISO
5833. There is only one study in which ISO 5833 was examined critically, but only one exogenous
variable was considered.

Purpose:

We carried out an extensive critical analysis of the ISO 5833 Standard with a view to making
recommendations for revising it.

Materials and Methods:

7 approved PMMA bone cement brands (covering low-, medium-, and
high-viscosity brands) were used in two series of tests. In the first series, the influence of time at
which ID was determined (relative to achievement of cement doughing time (DT)) was delineated. In
the second series, the influence of three clinically-relevant variables on ID for each of these brands
was determined and, then, response surface methodology was used to analyze the results.

Results:

ID results are given for both series of tests. Over the range of the variables used, the optimum
IDs for a low-, medium-, and high-viscosity brand were computed to be 5.7 mm, 3.1 mm, and
2.4 mm, respectively.

Conclusion:

The findings allowed us to recommend that the following revisions be made to stipulations
in ISO 5833 for determining ID: prior to running the ID test, store the cement unit at 1°C; 60
minutes after removing the cement unit from the storage medium, mix the cement powder and liquid,
in a vacuum chamber, at 120 rpm; and determine ID 3 minutes after DT is achieved.
Production of Lipids from Municipal Sewage Sludge by Two Stage Extraction Process
Authors: P. Bharathi , M. Pennarsi
Published: October 2019

In this investigation, municipal sewage sludge was used as a lipid feedstock. Two stage extraction processes was developed to obtain good yield of lipid content. The maximum lipid yields 32.5% was achieved from chloroform: methanol solvents through optimum conditions of 2:1 ratio, 50oC temp for 30 min. The lipid content was characterized by TLC analysis. The lipid properties were analyzed and proved as a lipid. Hence, municipal sewage sludge serves as a valuable raw material for lipid production
Optimization of Nanobubble-Assisted Bunker Oil Flotation from Oil-Wet Sand via Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Authors: Wei Lim Mee , Von Lau Ee , Eong Poh Phaik
Published: October 2019

Flotation technology is an effective method for the separation of oil from sand via gas-liquid-solid system. The mechanism of flotation lies in the generation of gas bubble that attaches itself to the hydrophobic particles. Therefore, one of the main parameters which could affect the efficiency of flotation is the bubble size distribution. This research aims to investigate the efficiency of nanobubbles (NBs) in the flotation process to remove high density bunker oil from oil/sand slurry in a laboratory-scale flotation cell. Experiments were carried out using NBs (approximate diameter of 200 nm) generated via ultrasonication for the flotation studies. In this investigation, four different variables including amplitude (sonication power), pH, duration of sonication (min) and input flowrate of NBs (ml/s) were studied. The second order response function was used for obtaining flotation efficiency, and was further optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) to maximize flotation efficiency within the experimentally studied range. The optimum parameters were found to be, 70% amplitude, pH 12, 10 min of flotation and an input flowrate of 57 ml/s to achieve the predicted maximum flotation efficiency of 19.83%. This was in agreement to the experimental results which show an optimum flotation efficiency of 19.98%. The test results indicated that the use of NBs alone provided unsatisfactory flotation. Even though NBs (larger surface area) are expected to increase the bubble-particle attachment and decrease the detachment probabilities, the low buoyancy/low rising velocity of NBs prevents efficient flotation despite the advantages they have. Future studies would include the optimization of bubble size to improve the flotation efficiency
Effects of Various Mixed Metal Chlorides- AlCl3 in TiCl4/MgCl2/THF Catalytic System on Ethylene Polymerization
Authors: Sudsong Nittaya , Phiwkliang Wanna , Jongsomjit Bunjerd , Praserthdam Piyasan
Published: October 2019

In this research, the modification of TiCl4/MgCl2/THF catalyst system with various metal chlorides was investigated on ethylene polymerization. Experimentally, metal chlorides (CaCl2, FeCl2 and ZnCl2) were simultaneously introduced different with TiCl4/MgCl2/THF catalyst. ICP analysis was used to determine the total amount of each metal in the catalyst. For polymerization reaction, TEA was used as cocatalyst and hexane was used as a medium solvent. The Al/Ti molar ratio was 140. The activity result of Ca-Al, Zn-Al and Fe-Al was 979, 1009 and 1476 kgPE/molTi.h, respectively. The coaddition of AlCl3 and FeCl2 in TiCl4/MgCl2/THF catalyst system exhibited the highest activity. It suggested that the co-addition of AlCl3 and FeCl2 has higher electronegativity (EN) and the radius of Fe2+ is closer to Mg2+ resulting in an increased efficiency of the THF removal. This result led to improve the catalyst performance.