bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of functional endoscopic sinus surgery on patients with asthma and CRS with nasal polyps
Authors: Proimos E. , Papadakis C.E. , Chimona T.S. , Kiagiadaki D. , Ferekidis E. , Yiotakis J.
Published: January 2022

Aim: To study the effect of functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and nasal polyps (NP) with concomitant asthma. Design: The study was designed to evaluate prospectively whether FESS can influence parameters of asthma in patients with CRS with nasal polyps. Methods and results: One hundred thirty seven patients were recruited from the ENT-Allergy and Panedoscopy Clinic of the ENT Department. All selected patients underwent medical therapy for CRS and NP for 12 weeks, and in case of no improvement, they proceeded to surgical treatment. They also underwent pre- and post-treatment subjective and objective measurements for CRS and asthma. In the study, 86 patients were finally evaluated who completed the protocol and were followed up for a period of 12 months. The patients showed statistically significant improvement of the objective measurements for asthma, from baseline to six and twelve months follow-up. No significant increase was found in the proportion of patients with well or very well overall asthma-control during the follow-up period. There was a clear improvement in the use of bronchodilators, oral steroids and need for hospitalization for asthma. Conclusions: Obviously, there is a link between CRS with NP and asthma. The data analysis of our study supports the hypothesis that FESS could have beneficial effect on both diseases improving objective and subjective measurements.
Patient comfort following FESS and Nasopore® packing, a double blind, prospective, randomized trial
Authors: Kastl K.G. , Reichert M. , Scheithauer M.O. , Sommer F. , Kisser U. , Braun T. , Havel M. , Leunig A.
Published: January 2022

Background: The use of nasal packing after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is often associated with pain and a feeling of pressure for patients. The aim of the present work was to investigate a modern wound dressing made of polyurethane (Nasopore®) that makes removal of the nasal packing unnecessary and is focussed on patient comfort. Methodology: Following bilateral FESS, after randomisation, one side was packed with Nasopore® while the other side was without packing as a control. The following parameters from 47 patients were determined daily in two centres from post-operative day 1 for the duration of the inpatient stay in a double-blinded setting: side-specific post-operative bleeding, nasal breathing and feeling of pressure as well as the general parameters sleep disturbance, headaches and general well-being. Which side patients considered subjectively the better was also recorded. Results: No significant differences were determined between the two sides in terms of the rates of post-operative bleeding and nasal breathing. The feeling of pressure was slightly less on the side packed with Nasopore® on post-operative days 2 and 3. No trend could be observed regarding which side patients described as being subjectively better. Conclusion: There were only slight differences in patient comfort between the Nasopore® side and the control. Because the feeling of pressure in the midface was significantly less and there were no complications, this suggests there is greater patient comfort when using Nasopore® compared to using no nasal packing.
Improvement of nasal breathing and patient satisfaction by the endonasal dilator Airmax®
Authors: Hellings P.W. , Nolst Trenite G.J.
Published: January 2022

Background: Patients suffering from nasal obstruction due to external nasal valve dysfunction may benefit from either corrective surgery or a conservative approach with a nasal dilator. At present, devices for widening the external nasal valve region can be applied externally or endonasally. It remains unknown to what extent the en dona sal dilator Airmax® objectively improves the nasal flow and can be offered as an alternative for surgery. Methodology: Thirty patients suffering from nasal obstruction due to external nasal valve problems were proposed to use the nasal dilator for 4 weeks as an alternative for corrective surgery. The improvement of nasal flow by the dilator was evaluated by measuring the peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF). Then, patients were asked for their willingness to continue to use the nasal dilator or to undergo nasal valve surgery. Results: The endonasal dilator improved the mean PNIF from baseline values with a mean increase of 176.1 o/o. After a 4 week trial period, 19 of 30 patients expressed the intention to continue the use of the nasal dilator. Inappropriate size, local irritation and/or aesthetic nasal complaints were mentioned by the other patients as reasons for discontinuation of using the nasal dilator. Conclusion: The endonasal dilator Airmax® represents a powerful device to improve nasal breathing in the target patients and therefore represents a good alternative for corrective surgery.
Clinical analysis of submucosal Medpor implantation for empty nose syndrome
Authors: Tam Y.Y. , Lee T.J. , Wu C.C. , Chang P.H. , Chen Y.W. , Fu C.H. , Huang C.C.
Published: January 2022

ackground: Empty nose syndrome (ENS) describes symptomatology and radiographic findings after surgeries on turbinates.The treatment of ENS is still debatable. Purpose: To analyse clinical outcomes of submucosal Medpor® implantation for ENS. Methods: A total of 18 patients underwent submucosal Medpor® implantation from 2006 to 2011. We applied SNOT-22 (SinoNasalOutcome Test) for statistical survey of the patients' symptoms before and after surgery. Results: Two patients were lost to follow up after the surgery. Most of the patients developed ENS-related symptoms gradually within 2 years to 16 years after the previous nasal surgery or treatment. The sites of submucosal implantation are mainly septum and nasal floor, unilaterally or bilaterally. There is a significant improvement of SNOT-22 pre-operatively to one year post-operatively. Conclusions: The symptomatolgy remains the most important point when dealing with patients with ENS. Submucosal implantation of Medpor® is a feasible surgical treatment to ENS. A positive cotton test is suggested for the surgical indication and planning.
The value of antifungal therapy in allergic fungal rhinosinusitis
Authors: Mistry S.G. , Kumar B.N.
Published: January 2022

Background: Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFS) is considered to part of the disease spectrum of chronic rhinosinusitis, which affects between five to fifteen per cent of the population. Currently, there is uncertainty relating to the pathological process and therefore optimal management of AFS. Studies assessing antifungal use have shown mixed results. The aim of this review is to assess the effect of antifungals on patients with AFS. Methods: A systematic review of the literature to include all published trials searching Pubmed, Medline (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO) and the Cochrane central register of controlled trials (CENTRAL) databases. Results: Sixteen studies (two systematic reviews, two meta-analysis, four randomised controlled trials, five prospective cohort studies and three retrospective studies) were included in this review. There was found to be no overall benefit of topical or oral antifungals upon endoscopic findings or patient reported outcome measures in AFS. There were no statistically significant differences in adverse effect profiles between treatment and control groups. Conclusion: There is limited evidence to support the use of topical or oral antifungal agents in patients with AFS. Future research recommendations include large multicentre randomised trials with better matched patient groups and appropriate dosage and timing of antifungals.
Effect of Fishery Closure on Discard Composition of Rapa Whelk, Rapana venosa (Valenciennes 1846) Beam Trawl Fisheries in Black Sea
Authors: Erik Gökhan , Dağtekin Murat
Published: January 2022

Rapa whelk has become significant commercially, as there is a market that makes it export-oriented species. It has also gained special importance because of catching this species in all riparian countries in the Black Sea basin. The various exploitation methods of this species include beam trawl and diving. Here, the experimental beam trawl survey for Rapa whelk fishing was designed monthly in one year. Catch composition was examined spatially and temporally. Differences in estimated biomass of Rapa whelk and abundance of discard species were used to evaluate the effectiveness of seasonal fishing closure. Our results indicated that, discard composition of Rapa whelk fishery strongly reflected seasonal changes. Total estimated abundance and biomass values showed significant regional, seasonal and depth-related differences, also number of species and diversity index changes regionally and seasonally. Discard ratio was found very low in biomass. At the same time, seasonal fishery closure period was benefited for discard species in spring and summer period. The lowest distribution of Rapa whelk and discard species except blood cockle were found in winter season during fishing period. It becomes apparent that seasonal fishery closure is an important management measure both for stock sustainability, species diversity, and ecosystem health. Therefore, all Black Sea countries should consider similar management.
Решето И. М. Виноградова и оценка неполной суммы Клоостермана
Authors: Korolev Maxim Aleksandrovich
Published: January 2022

За счет применения так называемого решета И. М. Виноградова уточняется оценка короткой суммы Клоостермана по простому модулю $q$. Число слагаемых в такой сумме может быть меньшим сколь угодно малой фиксированной степени $q$.
Библиография: 26 названий.
Requirements for Road Weather Applications
Authors:   Infrastructure Applications Technical Committee
Published: January 2022

Inclement weather can have a significant impact on surface transportation systems. It can result in hazardous conditions for travelers due to poor visibility, or wet or icy roadways. Weather applications have the potential to provide additional data to surface transportation infrastructure owners and operators, allowing them to better assess the impacts of the weather environment on or around the roadway and to better manage the surface transportation system. Such weather applications can:

Collect road weather data from connected vehicles and mobile devices, increasing the number of data sources available.

Provide road weather related traveler information to travelers via connected vehicles and devices, such as when and where a hazardous condition exists.

Provide the ability to manage road weather response on specific roadways.

This SAE Standard specifies interface requirements between vehicles and infrastructure for weather applications, including detailed systems engineering documentation (needs and requirements mapped to appropriate message exchanges). The purpose of this SAE Standard is to enable interoperability supporting these weather applications over a communications technology agnostic interface.
Serological evidence of influenza A/H9 in indigenous birds and level of awareness at live bird markets, Plateau State
Authors: Abiayi D.C. , Otolorin G.R. , Dzikwi-Emennaa A.A. , Meseko C.A.
Published: January 2022

Avian influenza is a zoonotic disease that can adversely affect humans and animals. Nigeria first reported an outbreak of avian influenza which was caused by subtype H5N1 in 2006, thereafter virological and serological surveys revealed the importance of local birds in live bird markets and the community at large in the epidemiology of avian influenza in the country. In the present study, 276 serum samples were collected for serological testing over five months from apparently healthy local birds in live bird markets within two Local Government Areas of Plateau State, to determine antibody prevalence to avian influenza A virus. The detection of influenza A antibody was carried out using an Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and further tested by haemagglutination inhibition to determine the specific serotype of the influenza A virus. The result showed a prevalence of 30.4% (n=84) of antibody to influenza A, 26% (n=72) of serotype H9, 1.4% (n=4) of serotype H7, and none was confirmed to be H5 serotype. Comparatively, Jos-North had a lower relative risk with a prevalence of 18.9% (n=18) to the disease as compared to Jos-South with a prevalence of 36.5% (n=66). This study showed the presence of low pathogenic avian influenza A virus in live bird markets within the study area with the dominance of antibodies to H9. To our knowledge, this is the first serological indication of serotype H9 in Plateau State and Nigeria. Evidence of influenza A/H9 in an ecological niche known for the circulation of subtypes H5Nx may complicate the epidemiology and control of avian influenza in the region and Nigeria at large. The level of awareness by the live bird market operators about avian influenza (AI) was relatively low as indicated by the questionnaire survey conducted. Live bird market operators and poultry farmers need to maintain a high level of biosecurity and limit mixing local birds with commercial poultry to prevent the transmission of the virus which may have adverse effects on poultry production, national and international trade, the economy and public health.
Assessment of mango and carrot juices as West African Dwarf ram semen extender at room temperature
Authors: Oloye A.A. , Fakile A.A. , Olurode S.A. , Mustapha L. , Bassahwa A.P. , Adetomiwa A.S.
Published: January 2022

Quality and affordable semen extenders are essential for successful artificial insemination. Extenders from natural sources have been found to be effective and affordable. Using two matured West African Dwarf rams (18.67±1.45kg), the effectiveness of graded mixtures of mango and carrot juices (100% Mango (M), 100% Carrot (C) 90%M10%C, 70%M30%C, 50%M50%C, 30%M70%C and 10%M90%C), and conventional egg yolk citrate (EYC) as ram semen extender was studied. Each diluent was constituted in five aliquots using standard methods and pH determined electronically. Semen collection in three trials using electro-ejaculator method was followed by evaluation for colour, volume, pre-extended sperm motility, concentration, percentage liveability and morphological normality. Thereafter, semen were extended with different diluents by adding 0.2ml of semen to 7.5ml of diluents. Immediately, hourly evaluation for sperm motility from zero to eight hours then twenty-four hours post-extension was done. Diluents revealed in the study as the most effective semen extender were subjected to proximate analyses. The pH of the diluents ranged from 4.56±0.11 (70%M30%C) to 6.40± 0.14 (90%C10%M). The mean ejaculate volume was 0.8±0.00ml while colour observed was creamy. The pre-extended mean spermatozoa motility, morphological abnormality, percentage liveability and concentration were 94.5±4.5%, 7.0±2.83%, 88.75±2.5% and 0.3×109 sperm cell/ml respectively. Spermatozoa motility declined progressively in all the diluents from 0-24hours post-extension. The decline was observed to be significantly rapid (p≤0.05) in 100%Carrot diluent from 94±2.4% at zero hour to 0% at three hours post extension. Only diluents 90%M10%C, 100%M and Egg Yolk Citrate provided sperm motility score of 30% and above at eight hours post extension. Proximate analyses of 90%M10%C and 100%M revealed presence of essential minerals which are found to be naturally occurring in ram ejaculate. The work established that mixture of mango and carrot (90%M10%C) and 100% mango juices could be used as a suitable semen extender in preserving West African Ram semen at room temperature.
Incidence of organophosphate and carbamate poisoning in dogs within Maiduguri, North-eastern Nigeria
Authors: Fomnya H.J. , Ngulde S.I. , Sanni S. , Bilbonga G. , Gana S.M. , Usman M.A. , Umaru B.
Published: January 2022

The persistent application of chemicals in pest control and agricultural processes possess a public health concern as their use are often associated with acute or chronic poisoning cases in both humans and animals. In veterinary medicine, pesticides such as organophosphates and carbamates are exclusively used in ectoparasitic control through pour on, tick bath and fumigation. The incidence of organophosphate or carbamate poisoning in dogs within Maiduguri, north-eastern Nigeria was assessed using three government approved and licensed veterinary centres. Data were obtained through the review of three years (2016-2018) retrospective cases of organophosphate/carbamate poisoning and administration of questionnaires to actively practising veterinarians. Investigation revealed that organophosphate/carbamate poisoning in dogs within Maiduguri metropolis constituted 37% of poisoning cases and was on the increase in recent years with 22.96% of the total cases reported in 2016, 34.08% in 2017 and 42.96% in 2018. The case was most prevalent at the peak of the rainy season around July and August. The common clinical signs observed include salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle spasms, severe weakness and paralysis. Management was usually supportive and symptomatic while antidotal therapy revolved on atropine sulphate only. The effect of ageing in organophosphate poisoning was neglected by most of the clinicians as more than 50% would administer atropine sulphate without considering the duration of the onset of poisoning. It was concluded that the incidence of organophosphate and carbamate poisoning in dogs in Maiduguri constituted 37% of all poisoning cases where 22.96% and 42.96% of it were reported in 2016 and 2018, respectively. Enlightenment programmes for the public and professionals are recommended on the increased cases of poisoning and proper use of antidote in the treatment of chemical toxicosis.
Seroprevalence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum in apparently healthy layer chickens in commercial farms in Ibadan
Authors: Bakre A.A. , Anifowose O.R. , Adegbenro M.A.
Published: January 2022

Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) is a common poultry infection that causes chronic respiratory disease in chickens and turkeys, resulting in significant financial losses for poultry farmers and affecting the entire country. The primary goal of this study was to establish the seroprevalence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum in commercial layer birds in several local government in Ibadan namely; Afijio, Akinyele, Lagelu, Ido, Egbeda, Ona ara and Ibadan South west, between March and July, 2021. A total of 140 blood samples were obtained at random from commercial layer chickens (ISA brown) of various ages and flock sizes. The presence of antibodies against MG was detected using an indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent test (iELISA). Overall prevalence of 74.3% was recorded during this study with Deborah farm having the highest MG prevalence of 85%, Agboola, 80%, Brian, Betty and Cornerstone had 75%, Rehoboth had 70% and Abol farm had the lowest prevalence of 60%. The highest seroprevalence of MG antibody was 85% in 18-21 weeks, followed by 80% in 22-25 weeks, and lowest with 60% in 8-11 weeks. In the farm chosen, there was no significant change in relative flock size at p < 0.05. Moreover, because the disease is transmitted vertically, these findings suggest that commercial layers in Ibadan should be frequently examined for MG infection and carrier birds should be culled. Efforts should be focused on educating poultry producers on how to effectively control MG in layer farms in Nigeria through proper management and the use of appropriate preventive or therapeutic methods.
A retrospective study on monthly disease reports from some area veterinary offices in Bauchi State, Nigeria
Authors: Sule A.G. , Abdu PA
Published: January 2022

A retrospective study to determine the completeness and content of monthly disease reports (MDRs) from eight Area Veterinary Offices (AVOs) was conducted at the office of the Director Veterinary Services (DVS) Bauchi State, Nigeria. The result revealed submissions of MDRs made by all the AVOs at the office of the Director Veterinary Services were less than the expected 60 monthly disease reports. Among all the AVOs, Azare had the highest available report that reached 70% of the expected reports, while Shira presented the lowest available MDR of 10%. An observation on the content of MDR showed no uniformity in the format of disease reporting from all the AVOs. The content also showed a total of 1,251,886 cases which were broadly categorized into poultry (225,891) cases and 1,025,995 other livestock cases. There was a significant association in the reporting of livestock cases when compared to poultry cases (p <0001, Chi-square =138600) in all the AVOs. The result showed incompleteness in the availability of MDRs presented by AVOs in the office of DVS which is suggestive of underreporting. The results from this study tend to highlight the need to strengthen monthly disease reporting among AVOs in Bauchi State, Nigeria to enable the office of the Director of Veterinary Services to use the report for early prevention and control of prevailing animal diseases and notification of diseases at national and international level.
Clinical effectiveness of a combination of metformin and ipragliflozin in the management of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tan Xiaojie , Sun Guijuan , Yuan Fei , Qu Linfang , Han Aiqiang
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the clinical effectiveness of combination of metformin and ipragliflozin in the treatment of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods: Patients with T2DM (n = 100) aged 35 – 68 years (mean age = 51.5 ± 16.5 years) were recruited over a 1-year period and randomly assigned to 2 groups (50 patients/group): control and study groups. Control group patients were treated with metformin orally at a dose of 500 mg/kg body weight twice a day, while patients in the study group received 50 mg ipragliflozin/kg, orally once a day, in addition to metformin. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), 2-h postprandial blood glucose (PBG), bedtime glucose (BBG) and glycated hemoglobin (HbAlc) concentrations were measured in patients’ plasma before and after treatment. Incidence of adverse reactions, changes in body fat and clinical effectiveness were also determined.

Results: FBG, 2-h PBG, BBG, HbAlc, body fat and incidence of adverse reactions were markedly reduced in T2DM patients treated with the combination of metformin and ipragliflozin, relative to those treated with metformin alone (p < 0.05). After treatment, the proportion of outcomes categorized as ‘markedly effective’ and ‘total effectiveness’ was higher in the study group than in the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The combination of metformin and ipragliflozin is safer and more clinically effective in the treatment of T2DM than metformin monotherapy.
Ursolic acid mitigates cognitive dysfunction through amelioration of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in diabetic rats
Authors: Xianchu Liu , Kang Liu , Huan Peng , Ming Liu
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To determine the effect of ursolic acid (UA) on diabetes-induced cognitive defect, as well as its mechanism of action in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Methods: A rat model of diabetes was established by administration of STZ. The rats received UA via gastric perfusion for 56 successive days. Learning and memory functions were assessed using Morris water maze. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in hippocampus tissues were determined spectrophotometrically. Tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were assayed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT- PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The protein expression levels of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor-2 (Nrf-2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), Bcl-2 and Bax were evaluated by western blotting.

Results: Learning and memory impairment in STZ-induced diabetic rats was mitigated by UA (p < 0.05). In hippocampus tissue, UA reduced oxidative stress by enhancing SOD activity and reducing MDA levels. Furthermore, UA reduced inflammatory response by downregulating TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 levels (p < 0.05). Concomitantly, the lower protein concentrations of Nrf-2 and HO-1 were elevated by administration of UA. Furthermore, UA suppressed Bax/Bcl-2 ratio to ameliorate apoptosis (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: UA reduces diabetes-induced hippocampal oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. Thus, it might be a potential drug candidate for delaying diabetes-associated cognitive decline (DACD).
Screening of quality markers of Jie-Geng decoction based on integration of multiple methods
Authors: Fan Zhiyuan , Han Xue , Xia Lingling , Xu Xiaohong , Xie Jing , Zhang Quan , Su Qing , Sheng Yanmei , Xie Xingliang
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To screen quality markers of Jie-Geng decoction (JGD) through multiple analytical methods and integration of network pharmacology and HPLC-ELSD fingerprint.

Methods: Network pharmacology was used to screen the potential bioactive components of JGD. Simultaneously, HPLC-ELSD fingerprint combined with multiple analytical methods was carried out for determination of the chemical compounds in JGD. Subsequently, quality markers for identification of quality variations in JGD were established through the integration of results from network pharmacology and fingerprinting, in combination with similarity analysis, hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA), and orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA).

Results: A total of 110 compounds responsible for the regulation of 36 target genes in airway inflammation and cough were identified through network pharmacology. Furthermore, 37 characteristic components were obtained through fingerprints. Similarity analysis revealed that the main bioactive compounds in the various batches of JGD were similar. Also, HCA and OPLS-DA analyses were performed to identify the potential quality markers. Glycyrrhizic acid, liquiritin, and platycodin D were selected as quality markers, based on effectiveness, measurability, and distinguishability. Furthermore, quality variations in JGD arose mostly from variations in origin of gancao.

Conclusion: The screened quality markers for JGD are useful in evaluation of factors that affect the quality and variation in JGD. The concept of integration of network pharmacology and fingerprint with multiple analytical methods might be a novel strategy for quality control of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulations.
Antimycobacterial activity of aqueous and methanol extracts of nine plants against Mycobacterium bacteria
Authors: Singh Alveera , Venugopala Katharigatta N. , Pillay Melendran , Shode Francis , Coovadia Yacoob , Odhav Bharti
Published: January 2022

Purpose: The present study was done to evaluate the antimycobacterial activity of aqueous and methanol extracts of nine plants viz., Buddleja saligna, Carpobrotus dimidiatus, Capparis tomentosa, Dichrostachys cinerea, Ekebergia capensis, Ficus sur, Gunnera perpensa, Leonotis leonurus and Tetradenia riparia in South Africa.

Methods: Aqueous and methanol extracts of the leaves the plants were tested in vitro for their activity against Mycobacterium smegmatis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv (ATCC 25177) and three well-characterized clinical isolates of MDR and XDR-TB isolates using the agar incorporation method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each of the active plant extract was determined using the broth microdilution method. Cytotoxic effect was evaluated against the mouse BALB/C monocyte macrophage (J774.2) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) whole the toxicity screening was done using the brine shrimp lethality assay. Composition of each of the plants was determined using thin layer chromatography while qualitative analysis of antimycobacterial compounds was done using TLC-Bioautography

Results: The methanol extracts of B. saligna, C. tormentosa and C. dimidiatus; and aqueous extracts of G. perpensa and T. riparia possessed significant activity against M. smegmatis, M. tuberculosis H37Rv (ATCC 25177) and the three well-characterized clinical isolates of MDR and XDR-TB. Except for a high concentration of G. perpensa none of the other plants which possessed antimycobacterial activity showed any toxic or cytotoxic activity.

Conclusion: Our findings show that B. saligna, C. tormentosa, C. dimidiatus, G. perpensa, and T. riparia have antimycobacterial activity. Further studies would aim at isolation and identification of the active compounds from the plants extracts which had positive antimycobacterial activity.
Demethoxycurcumin inhibits the growth of human lung cancer cells by targeting of PI3K/AKT/m-TOR signalling pathway, induction of apoptosis and inhibition of cell migration and invasion
Authors: Chen Yunlong , Wu Mianhua
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To determine the antitumor effect of demethoxycurcumin on lung cancer cells, as well as its effect on PI3K/AKT/m-TOR signalling, cellular apoptosis, cell migration and cell invasion.

Methods: Cell viability was determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, while AO/EB and annexin V/PI staining assays were used for apoptosis analysis in demethoxycurcumin-treated A-549 lung cancer cells. Transwell chamber assay was used to determine the effect of demethoxycurcumin on migration and invasion of A-549 cells. The expression levels of PI3K/AKT/m-TOR signalling and apoptosis-associated proteins in A-549 cells post- demethoxycurcumin treatment were determined by Western blotting assay.

Results: Demethoxycurcumin markedly inhibited the proliferation of A-549 cells in a dose- and time- reliant fashion. The antiproliferative effect of demethoxycurcumin occurred via stimulation of apoptosis. The expression levels of Bax, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9 increased significantly, while Bcl-2 was significantly decreased in A-549 cells post-demethoxycurcumin treatment. Demethoxycurcumin substantially inhibited migration and invasion of A-549 cells, and blocked PI3K/AKT/m-TOR signalling pathway in these cells.

Conclusion: Demethoxycurcumin induces anticancer effects on A-549 cells via targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. It induces cellular apoptosis and inhibits migration and invasion of A-549 cells. Thus, it is a promising anti-lung cancer agent.
A qualitative analysis of critical incident reporting in a paediatric hospital: benefits and weaknesses
Authors: Heuer Luisa , Lehner Markus , Stocker Martin , Szavay Philipp , Zundel Sabine
Published: January 2022

AIMS OF THE STUDY: The value of critical incident reporting systems (CIRSs) has been shown before but data for paediatric facilities are scarce. We aimed to evaluate a CIRS in a paediatric hospital to analyse its benefits, weaknesses and opportunities.
METHODS: In a qualitative analysis, all incidents reported in 2018 with the anonymous reporting tool (CIRS) of the Children's Hospital Lucerne were evaluated. In an iterative process, categories to group the incidents were created and the data analysed accordingly. The focus was on the problem created through the incident, the type of error and possible avoidance.
RESULTS: 496 incidents were reported in 2018: 307 incidents led to medical errors directly effecting patients, 82 incidents led to organisational problems increasing expenditure and 107 incidents were found to not result in any problem. In the majority of cases (398/496) there was no evidence that the caregiver responsible was informed. Personal feedback was documented in 46 cases. Fifty-two incidents were self-reported.
CONCLUSION: A number of reported incidents helped to identify system-based errors and for these the reporting system proved indispensable. Many of the reported errors were found to have an individual component, or only organisational or no consequences. Our data give evidence that instead of giving direct personal feedback, the anonymous reporting system was utilised. The CIRS is essential to identify system-based errors, but personal feedback needs to become obligatory so caregivers can learn from their error: an additional tool to ensure individual feedback and overcome communication difficulties needs to be created.
Perception of physicians and nursing staff members regarding outside versus bedside ward rounds: ancillary analysis of the randomised BEDSIDE-OUTSIDE trial
Authors: Gross Sebastian , Beck Katharina , Becker Christoph , Gamp Martina , Mueller Jonas , Loretz Nina , Amacher Simon A. , Bohren Chantal , Gaab Jens , Schuetz Philipp , Mueller Beat , Fux Christoph A. , Leuppi Jörg D. , Schaefert Rainer , Langewitz Wolf , Trendelenburg Marten , Breidthardt Tobias , Eckstein Jens , Osthoff Michael , Bassetti Stefano , Hunziker Sabina
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND: We recently compared the effects of bedside and outside the room ward rounds on patients’ knowledge about their medical care. Here, we report preferences of medical and nursing staff members regarding outside versus bedside ward rounds. 

METHODS: Within this ancillary project of a large multicentre randomised controlled trial, we prospectively conducted a survey of medical and nursing staff members participating in the weekly consultant ward rounds in the internal medicine division of three Swiss teaching hospitals between July 2017 and October 2019. Participants were asked about their preferences on outside versus bedside ward rounds. The primary endpoint was satisfaction of healthcare workers with the ward round measured with a visual analogue scale from 0 to 100. 

RESULTS: Between July 2017 and October 2019, 919 patients were included in the trial, and we received 891 survey responses (nurses 15.6%, residents 26.8%, attending physicians 29.6%, consultants 7.8% and chief physicians 20.2%. In the overall analysis, mean (± standard deviation) satisfaction of healthcare workers was higher with outside the room than bedside ward rounds (78.03 ± 16.96 versus 68.25 ± 21.10 respectively; age-, gender- and centre-adjusted difference of –10.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] –12.73 to –8.19; p <0.001). Healthcare workers reported better time management, more discussion of sensitive topics and less discomfort when case presentations were conducted outside the room. A stratified subgroup analysis considering the profession, however, showed strong differences, with nurses being more satisfied with bedside rounds (69.20 ± 20.32 versus 65.32 ± 20.92, respectively; adjusted difference 4.35, 95% CI –1.79 to 10.51; p <0.001), whereas attending physicians showed higher satisfaction with outside the room rounds (82.63 ± 13.87 versus 66.59 ± 21.82; adjusted difference –16.51, 95% CI –20.29 to –12.72; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS: While bedside ward rounds are considered more patient centred and are preferred by the nursing staff, physicians prefer outside the room presentation of patients during ward rounds because of the perceived better discussion of sensitive topics, better time management and less staff discomfort. Continuous training including medical communication techniques may help to increase satisfaction of physicians with bedside ward rounds.
Trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03210987
Give Us a Break! Arbeitermilieu und Designszene im Aufbruch
Authors: De Martin Paola
Published: January 2022

Gegenstand von Paola De Martins ebenso weitgespannter wie detailscharfer Untersuchung sind die Zusammenhänge von ­sozialer Herkunft und Kreativwirtschaft im Kontext von Designausbildung und beruflicher Praxis. Schauplatz ihrer soziologisch versierten und durch die eigene Erfahrung untermauerten Schilderung ist Zürich zwischen 1970 und 2020. Erklärtes Ziel ihrer Studie ist es, das Wechselverhältnis zwischen ästhetischen Kriterien und sozialer Klasse auszuleuchten. Der vielschichtige, zwischen informierter Forschung und spannender Erzählung changierende Text stützt sich auf eine Reihe von Gesprächen mit Kulturschaffenden zu deren Lebenswegen vor dem Hintergrund der einschlägigen Literatur zu Designgeschichte und Soziologie, namentlich den Theorien Pierre Bourdieus und dessen Forschungen zu Distinktion und Habitusbruch – von dem sich auch der Titel »Give Us a Break!« ableitet. Paola De Martins reich illustriertes Buch ist eine in jeder Hinsicht grundlegende interdisziplinäre Studie an der Schnittstelle zwischen Soziologie, Wirtschaftshistorie und Geschichte der visuellen Kultur, welche die Geschichte von Design und angewandter Kunst in einem neuen Licht zu zeigen vermag.
Environmental Conditions Determining the Timing of the Lifetime Maximum Intensity of Tropical Cyclones over the Western North Pacific and Their Frequency of Occurrence
Authors: Xiao-hao QIN , Munehiko YAMAGUCHI , Norihisa USUI , Nariaki HIROSE
Published: January 2022

Environmental conditions determining the timing of the lifetime maximum intensities of tropical cyclones (TCs) are investigated for the TCs over the western North Pacific during the period 2008-2017. The results show that the land controls the timings of the lifetime maximum intensities in 42% of the TCs over this basin, indicating that accurate track forecasts are beneficial for TC intensity forecasts. With respect to other TCs that are not affected by the land (i.e., Ocean-TCs), the timings of their lifetime maximum intensities are determined by multiple oceanic factors. In particular, interactions between TCs and cold-core eddies occur in a large proportion (nearly 60%) of Ocean-TCs at or shortly after the times of their lifetime maximum intensities, especially in strong TCs (categories 4 and 5), suggesting that a consideration of the above interactions is necessary for improving TC intensity forecasting skills. In addition, unfavorable oceanic heat content conditions become common as the latitude increases over 25°N, influencing half of the Ocean-TCs. Strong vertical wind shear contributes detrimentally to the atmospheric environment in 17% of the TCs over this basin, especially in moderate and weak TCs. In contrast, neither the maximum potential intensity nor the humidity in the middle level of the atmosphere plays dominant roles when TCs turn from their peak intensities to weakening.
Thermal Impact of Lightning Current Injection into A Floor Housing High-Voltage Substations
Authors:   Laboratory of Electronic Engineering, of The Higher Institute of Applied Technique. DC Kinshasa, Clément MWANAMPUTU MBWANZO , Aristide MANKITI FATI , Flory LIDINGA MOBONDA , Timothée NSONGO , André PASI BENGI MASATA , Rodolphe GOMBA
Published: January 2022

In this paper the ionization problem of the ground, during the injection of lightning current through the earth of electrical installations is presented; this soil degradation has negative consequences on the performance of the earth electrodes through its transient impedance. To resolve this problem, we analyzed the measured samples of the earth resistance of the Lingwala / Kinshasa HV substation, where the soil is sandy-clay; the model of the dynamics of soil heating for a temperature variation simulated in Matlab gave us satisfactory results characterized by a decreasing exponential of the resistivity of the soil which gives the image of the pre-ionization which means an impedance low-value earth electrode transient which reflects its good performance. These encouraging results are safety indicators for electrical installations; they are aimed particularly at designers of industrial installations, operators of HV substations in electrical networks, and managers of buildings open to the public such as banks, hospitals, and large spaces. Keywords-- Thermal impact; injection; Lightning current; Ground; Job; High tension
The Online Writing Feedback －Distinctive Features and Directions
Authors: Kwak Subeom
Published: January 2022

Online writing feedback requires eclectic instructional approaches that exceed traditional face-to-face and oral interactions within the classroom setting. This study investigated the writing feedback systems and training materials used in universities in the United States to determine the common features and systematic procedures of student writing development. Data on teacher training programs and educational materials from 21 university writing centers in the United States and writing programs were collected, and a hermeneutic phenomenological approach (HPA) was used to examine university writing feedback systems and their implications. Analysis of the materials has extended the knowledge about online writing feedback, which presents distinctive features compared with the traditional methods for writing feedback.
Analysis of Social Innovator Attributes in Bahrom Character Education
Authors: Won Mi-Soon , Kim Sooyoung , Yoon Sujin
Published: January 2022

Recently, there has been a growing interest in social innovation serving as a new approach to social problem solving, and universities have gained much attention as social innovation actors. Since its establishment, Seoul Women’s University has been implementing Bahrom Character Education curricula as required courses, with the educational goal of “raising talents contributing to social value realization.” The purpose of this study is to examine the historical changes of Bahrom Character Education, to analyze the social innovator attributes from the curricula, and to investigate its implications on the social innovation education practices of today’s universities.
To meet this end, the six major publications and research reports on ‘Bahrom Character Education’ were selected and analyzed. The findings convinced us that (1) each stage of Bahrom Character Education reflected the needs of the era, (2) the educational philosophy of “raising talents contributing to society” were embedded in the curricula, and that (3) action-oriented social problem solving courses helped the students to contribute to authentic social changes. Moreover, thematic analysis highlighted seven social innovator attributes: ‘collaborative self-understanding’, ‘collaborative self-management’, ‘sense of community’, ‘empathy and communication’, ‘comprehensive problem solving ability’, ‘citizenship’, and ‘leadership’, all of which shows that the curricula of Bahrom Character Education include key characteristics of social innovation education.
The current study suggests that universities should make step-by-step as well as long-term growth goals for social innovation education and that the whole campus should establish social innovation education-friendly environments. However, in order to accomplish this, all university members should come to a consensus about the matter, and further provide psycho-social, administrative and financial support at the school level.
The Present and Future Tasks of Community-Linked Education for Liberal Arts Education in College
Authors: Choi Yeun Hwa , Choi Kyoung Ae
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study is to examine the characteristics and research results of community-linked education models, which have been receiving intensive attention in recent years due to the transition to competency-based education. This study also aims to discover the future directions and/or tasks for enhancing the effectiveness of community-linked education as liberal arts education. For this, firstly this study reviewed the literature review pertaining to the college-community linkage types and community-linked education models for liberal arts education. Secondly, this study conducted comparison analysis between 5 community-linked education models such as club activities, volunteer activities, out of class experiences, service-related subjects, and service learning, in order to derive implications for future community-linked education. As a result, the following 5 directions or tasks were proposed: First, in-class activities and community-related volunteer activities should be meaningfully connected through the subjects and students’research to increase the effectiveness of community-linked education. Second, elaborated learning models for community-linked education should be developed to maximize the improvement of the learners' core competencies and other educational effects through the curriculum or subject. Third, effective teaching models and strategies for operating this course should be specified, and textbooks and manuals should be developed and shared among the faculty. Fourth, a dedicated body, which is responsible for building networks for regional communities, and supporting and connecting faculty who facilitate this course, should be established and operated. Fifth, only highly responsible faculty members should be designated for this subject, so that they can devote themselves to this subject’s continuous improvement. Lastly, more research on community-linked education should be carried out and the results should be shared to establish a nationwide college-community-local government cooperative system, which improve not only students’ competency, but also community’s problem solving capacity.
Korean Student Perceptions of a CANVAS Based EFL Class During COVID-19 －A Case Study
Authors: Richards Andrew , Jones Stuart
Published: January 2022

This study was designed to examine the feelings and perceptions of English learners at a Korean university towards using CANVAS as an online teaching medium during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected from 129 students enrolled at a university in the greater Seoul area. A survey questionnaire consisting of a combination of multiple choice, Likert scale and open-ended questions was used as the primary data collection method. In addition, if consent was given, survey participants were contacted by e-mail to discuss responses in further detail. Data was analyzed using general qualitative analysis and discussed using descriptive statistics. The findings show that despite pandemic related disruption and some feelings of frustration related to the efficiency of the system, students were able to adapt quickly to using CANVAS as their main learning interface and were generally satisfied with it. In addition, they relied on a specific number of CANVAS functions which helped with the learning process and improvement of English ability. Administrational and educational implications of these findings as well as limitations are also discussed.
Undergraduate Students’ Perceptions of Fairness in the Evaluation Systems for Non-Face-to-Face Classes －Focusing on the Case of I University Students
Authors: Lee Kyeongja , Yoo Jungmin
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study is to improve the fairness in the evaluation systems for non-face-to-face classes, and to propose improvement plans ensure their quality. It is based on a questionnaire survey regarding the undergraduate students’ perceptions of fairness in the evaluation systems for non-face-to face classes, focusing on the case of I University students. We investigated the undergraduate students’ perceptions of fairness in the evaluation standards, evaluation methods and evaluation results for non-face-to-face classes in order to discover what important factors have an influence on these evaluation criteria.
From the results, we found that students believe that evaluation systems for non-face-to-face classes should be differentiated from those of face-to-face classes. They consider the fairness in the evaluation systems of non-face-to-face classes to be differentiated from face-to-face classes. However, they do not differentiate between the two when it comes to actual evaluation results, and they were even more highly satisfied with the evaluation results under non-face-to-face systems, showing a degree of duplicity in their assessment. Further, they consider evaluation methods to be the most important factor for the fairness in the evaluation system for non-face-to-face classes. These results are also differentiated according to the students’ different class experiences.
From these results we propose that a blended learning system should be adopted for face-to-face and non-face-to-face classes, in order to overcome the problems inherent in the non-face-to-face classes, such as a shortage of actual contact and communication between professors and students. We also suggest that universities develop individualized education and evaluation systems applying various online education techniques to improve the quality of education that must now cope with the problems and challenges of providing non-face-to-face classes.