bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La viabilité financière des autorités locales en Angleterre et en Espagne : étude empirique comparative
Authors: Rodríguez Bolívar Manuel Pedro , López Subires María Deseada , Alcaide Muñoz Laura , Navarro Galera Andrés
Published: March 2021

Depuis quelques années, la viabilité financière des autorités locales est considérée comme un concept d’une importance cruciale pour garantir le maintien des services publics pour les générations futures. Même si de nombreux pays européens ont mis en œuvre des programmes visant à améliorer leur viabilité financière, les autorités locales se caractérisent par des traditions administratives variables et obtiennent des résultats variables également à la suite réformes entreprises. En adoptant une approche comparative, la présente étude identifie les facteurs institutionnels, macro-économiques et microéconomiques susceptibles d’influencer la viabilité financière des autorités locales en Angleterre et en Espagne afin de déterminer et d’expliquer les points communs et les différences entre les facteurs de motivation et les facteurs de risque concernant la viabilité financière dans la prestation de services publics par les autorités locales. Remarques à l’intention des praticiens Le présent article s’appuie sur trois grandes théories (théorie de l’agence, théorie néo-institutionnelle et théorie des parties prenantes) liées aux facteurs institutionnels, macro-économiques et microéconomiques déterminant la viabilité financière et vise à identifier ces facteurs en comparant différents contextes (contextes anglais et espagnol). Cette identification des facteurs qui influencent la viabilité financière des municipalités pourrait permettre de mieux comprendre ce que les décideurs politiques auraient pu faire pour prévenir la crise, ce qu’ils devraient faire pour éviter des échecs similaires à l’avenir et comment la prestation de services publics à long terme peut être assurée.
Investigation on stability and controller design for singular bio-economic systems with stochastic fluctuations
Authors: Song Yue , Zhang Yi , Yang Song , Li Na
Published: March 2021

In this paper, the finite-time stability and control of a kind of singular bio-economic systems with stochastic fluctuations are investigated. When economic profit is no longer a constant but a variable, the system shows distinct dynamic behavior. First, a singular system is proposed to describe the bio-economic system with stochastic fluctuation. Then a singular stochastic T-S fuzzy model is established based on T-S fuzzy system theory. Second, a sufficient condition is proposed to satisfy finite-time stochastic stability of bio-economic system. On this basis, a fuzzy state feedback controller is designed which can make corresponding closed-loop singular stochastic bio-economic system admissible in finite-time, and the states of the system can be driven to a bounded range through the management of the open resource. Finally, the validity of the results is verified through the numerical simulation.
Strengthening Motivation in the Mathematical Engineering Teaching Processes – A Proposal from Gamification and Game-Based Learning
Authors: Zabala-Vargas Sergio A. , García-Mora Lewis H. , Arciniegas-Hernandez Edgar , Reina-Medrano Jerson I , De Benito-Crosetti Bárbara , Darder-Mésquida Antonia
Published: March 2021

Gamification and game-based learning (GBL) has been widely implemented in educational processes, mainly in elementary education; it has been applied less frequently in university education. The objective was to test the effect of game-mediated teaching strategies on mathematics teaching in first-year engineering students. A quantitative study was done within the framework of a design-based research. Eighty-one (81) students participated in the research, all from the Dif-ferential Calculus course. Twelve (12) didactic units were designed. The instru-ment used was the Synthesized Instructional Materials Motivation Survey (SIMMS), adapted to record the categories of Attention, Relevance, Confidence and Satisfaction (Keller's motivational model). A significant contribution of the pedagogical strategy and the different categories of motivation was verified, whereas the significance between collaboration and motivation was also evident (intervention 2). Finally, the strategy can provide preliminary evidences in reduc-ing dropout. In conclusion, game-based learning can be used to strengthen educa-tional processes in engineering.
The Online Course as Initial Stage of a Course in Higher Education: Implementation and Evaluation of the Pre-MOOC Concept in a Technical Degree Course
Authors: Braun Clarissa , Ebner Martin , Fickert Lothar H. , Schön Sandra
Published: March 2021

In university teaching, a MOOC is often regarded as an isolated online course and thus underestimated in its didactic application possibilities within traditional teaching and learning environments. In this study, the "Pre-MOOC" design is presented as an example, in which the didactic em-bedding of an online course is the first phase of a lecture in higher educa-tion. After a brief overview of the current state of research on Pre-MOOCs, the article describes the instructional design process of the lecture in which we used the instructional design model ADDIE. Furthermore, the study de-scribes the implementation and evaluation in a master program of electrical engineering. We will analyze the results of the evaluation with regard to the concept of a Pre-MOOC. Based on feedback from students and teachers, rec-ommendations for designing a course with the Pre-MOOC design will be provided.
Towards an Evolution of E-Learning Recommendation Systems: From 2000 to Nowadays
Authors: Souabi Sonia , Retbi Asmaâ , Idrissi Mohammed Khalidi , Bennani Samir
Published: March 2021

In e-learning, recommendation systems have proven to be highly efficient for improving learners' performance and knowledge. They can manage the different pedagogical resources and simplify the workload for the instructor and learners as well. Throughout the years, recommendation systems in e-learning have wit-nessed a major evolution since the 2000s. Several aspects have been developed, including techniques involved, test data (...). In this respect, this paper analyses the evolution of recommendation systems in e-learning since 2000 with a focus on the evolution sides. It furthermore addresses areas not fully addressed to date. A set of recommendation systems is identified and then analysed in order to define techniques used, as well as algorithms deployed.
A Systematic Review of Serious Games for Collaborative Learning: Theoretical Framework, Game Mechanic and Efficiency Assessment
Authors: Wang Chaoguang , Huang Lusha
Published: March 2021

In recent years, there has been extensive research on serious games for edu-cational purpose. However, the design space for collaboration in games re-mains substantially unexplored. In this study, we systematically reviewed 31 empirical research articles regarding game-based collaborative learning published from 2006 to 2020 and attempted to provide new information about designing serious games for collaborative learning. We surveyed a number of games and investigated their design features that encourage col-laborative learning. Twenty game mechanics were identified and grouped in-to six main domains: (1) Space, (2) Objects, attributes and states, (3) Ac-tions, (4) Rules and goals, (5) Skill, (6) chance. The analysis of user studies they performed indicated that most of the game projects relied on self-report methods to test their learning effectiveness, and only a few studies adopted the data mining method based on game logs. The implications for research into facilitating collaborative learning and recommendations for future re-search directions are discussed.
Quality of Using Google Classroom to Support the Learning Processes in the Automation and Programming Course
Authors: Abuzant Maysa , Ghanem Monji , Abd-Rabo Ayshi , Daher Wajeeh
Published: March 2021

Virtual and blended learning are suggested as means to support students’ learning of the subject matter. The present study sought to examine how one educational tool for the classroom; specifically Google Classroom, was used by a teacher of automation and programming course in the secondary school. One secondary school teacher and her two students participated in the re-search. The data collection tools were interviews of two types: asking the participants semi-structured questions, and requesting the teacher to show how she used the Google Classroom options to engage her students in online learning. The transcribed interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis depending on the model of Information Systems Success by DeLone and McLean.
The research results indicated that Google Classroom contributed to the quality of the learning of the students, which affected positively the teach-er’s and students’ satisfaction and intention to use this educational tool in the automation and programming class. The participants pointed at the benefits of using Google Classroom, which once again influenced positively the par-ticipants’ satisfaction and intention to use it for teaching and learning. The present study showed how a virtual classroom could be utilized in technolo-gy courses. The described phenomenon could give insights, not only to tech-nology teachers but to the teachers of other disciplines, how to utilize virtual and information systems in their teaching in order to enrich students’ learn-ing.
Enhancement Strategies for Classroom Teaching Effect of Professional Art Education
Authors: Li Nan
Published: March 2021

In professional art education, it is a great challenge to improve the classroom teaching effect. To cope with the challenge, this paper identifies the factors affecting the classroom teaching effect of professional art education from the perspective of teachers and that of students, through multi-perspective analysis. In the context of professional art education, the connotations of enhancing the classroom teaching effect were fully analyzed. On this basis, several strategies were put forward to enhance the said effect in professional art education. In addition, multi-angled measurement index systems were established for the enhancement, and a measurement model for the said effect was created through multi-factor decision-making. The research findings provide strong practical and theoretical supports to improving the classroom teaching effect of professional art education.
Fuzzy Evaluation of Physical Education Teaching Quality in Colleges Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Zhao Xiaokun , Zheng Chao
Published: March 2021

For physical education (PE) in colleges, the evaluation of the teaching quality is affected by various fuzzy and uncertain factors. Therefore, this paper probes deep into the fuzzy evaluation of the teaching quality of college PE, using analytic hierarchy process (AHP), fuzzy system theory and grey theory. Firstly, the factors affecting the teaching quality of college PE were analyzed theoretically, and the keys to improving that teaching quality were clarified. On this basis, the authors established an evaluation index system and a fuzzy evaluation model for the teaching quality of college PE. The proposed fuzzy evaluation model serves an innovative tool to evaluate the teaching quality of college PE. Apart from effective measurement of the teaching quality, the proposed model provides an important reference for improving the teaching quality of college PE.
The Use of Social Media Platforms as a Collaborative Supporting Tool: A Preliminary Assessment
Authors: Zabidi Norsharina , Wang Weigang
Published: March 2021

Presently, social media platforms hold an excellent reputation as the closest subject and most comfortable interaction zone inside the learner's heart which makes it the most influential learning tool. However, the evaluation of the social media platforms usage based on student's choices primarily as their collaborative learning supporting tool is still in the small-scale study. Meanwhile, majority of the studies reported so far, focusing more on the usage of a particular type popular or famous social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and so on) as the collaborative supporting tool. This paper attempt to assess the use of overall social media platforms based on student choices, notably for supporting their collaborative learning activities. A questionnaire survey used for data collection from two universities in two countries. Findings showed that both of the universities’ students have actively utilised their social media platforms as their collaborative supporting tool with 'four times and more' usage over a week, where it is already part of their daily lives. Another result also revealed the students spent their time using social media platforms at least for an hour' in a week as their collaborative supporting tool. Conclusively, it implies that social media platforms are still relevant enough and play an indispensable part in supporting the learning process mainly, for collaborative activity context.
Improving the Academic Self-Efficacy of Students Using Mobile Educational Apps in Virtual Learning: A Review
Authors: Hussain Azham , Mkpojiogu Emmanuel O.C , Ezekwudo Celestina Chinenye
Published: March 2021

There are several literatures pertaining to the self-efficacy of student, and educational mobile apps, but no work has been done yet on the improving the academic self-efficacy of students using mobile educational apps. This study therefore employed systematic review methodology to ascertain the factors necessary to be considered while using educational mobile apps in order to improve the academic self-efficacy of students. Hence, this paper attempts to review available literatures with the aim of capturing means of improving the academic self-efficacy of students using mobile educational apps. To achieve the stated research objective, the study applied systematic literature review methodology. Fifty (50) papers relating to academic self-efficacy of students using mobile educational apps were downloaded. Out of these papers, nineteen (19) most relevant studies were selected for review in order to extract the appropriate information needed for the analysis. The results from the review revealed that the major causes of students’ low academic self-efficacy are: lack of confidence with 22.73% and others include: low self-esteem (21.05%) and inferiority complex (10.53%). Also the review was able to show the three most important factors necessary for improving the academic self-efficacy of students using mobile educational apps included: teachers’ message (21.05%) and success and failure of others (15.79%).
Modelling the Impact of Mobile Application Adoption on the Taxi Demand: An Application of a System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Abdul Ghani Muhamad Syafiq , Abidin Norhaslinda Zainal , Rahman Rosshairy Abd , Wibowo Antoni , Alwi Azatuliffah
Published: March 2021

The improvement of technology brings a significant impact on transportation industries. The taxi industry has undergone tremendous changes with the existent of e-hailing service in the industry. Due to the introduction of mobile applications, e-hailing service takes part to compete in the market. The government has given priority to overcome the problem by introducing travel demand strategies that focus on mitigating the demand competition between the taxi and e-hailing services. One of the strategies is the adoption of a mobile application in taxi service. This paper aims to develop a system dynamics model to analyse mobile application adoption’s impact on customers’ demand on the mode share of taxi and e-hailing services as a measured output. System dynamics is a decision-experimentation method that creates a learning environment in which policymakers gain a better understanding of how the system will respond to their decisions and the potential unintended consequences of decisions. With the developed SD model, the feedback relations between mobile application adoptions on the output of taxi demand can be observed. Furthermore, the demand competition between the taxi and e-hailing services can be minimised using this SD model. The result shows that, by implementing the usage of the mobile application in taxi services, more users will be attracted to use the taxi service. With that service option, users will shift their attraction from e-hailing to taxi service, which is then able to minimise the demand competition. This research can benefit policymakers and authorities in the department of transportation to serve as a planning tool so that the demand of taxi and e-hailing services in Malaysia with the adoption of mobile application in taxi service can be predicted.
User Experience on BM Year 2 Mobile-based Learning Application for Alpha Generation
Authors: Omar Azizah Che , Aziz Nurulnadwan , Abd Muin Mohd Adib
Published: March 2021

This paper reports the ongoing project related to the development of mobile-based learning application particularly for Alpha Generations who studies in international school. Due to the advancement of digital technologies, Alpha Generations tend to interact with mobile device compared to conventional environment as they were born in the century of digital age. This includes their learning activities. In Malaysia, expert in language literacy particularly Malay language is compulsory for all including foreigner students who learn in international school. As the mobile-based learning application could provide attractive and interactive interaction compared to conventional teaching method, providing children with additional mobile-based learning tool could facilitates them to have their own active learning experience. This study found that this is the research gap that should be fill in to ensure children in international school able to literate in Malay Language similar to mainstream student. Therefore, mobile-based learning application called BM Year 2 has been developed and evaluated. The proposed application also has been discussed in the previous paper which involves expert evaluation. To ensure the proposed application could fulfill the actual users’ needs, user experience testing has been carried out and discusses in this paper.They are tested in terms of layout and design, functionality, and user’s satisfaction. A set of questionnaires has been set up and distributed to the actual users upon they use the proposed mobile-based learning application BM Year 2. Overall, the empirical findings found that theBM Year 2 able to evokepositive learning experience to the actual users. 
Mobile Application and Web 2.0 as an E-Participation Mechanism: A Literature Analysis
Authors: Manaf Halimah Abdul , Man Mohamad Nur Salam
Published: March 2021

Every democratic government always in their goals in achieving inclusiveness in every decision-making process which will prevail in their efforts achieving the full principle of democracy, transparent, accountable, and good governance. Hence, e-participation has profoundly become one set of tools in bridging digital divide between people and their governments (C2G), governments and other government organisations (G2G), government and people (G2C), government and employees (G2E), and government and corporation (G2B) through the utilization advancement of information and communication technology (ICT). In regards to this, the mobile application and Web 2.0 system are often flagged for its potential in improving public participation which intended to improve the current lagging public services and to establish relationships between government and citizens based on virtual information sharing and public debate. Insight of this, does mobile application and Web 2.0 able to deliberately enhance e-participation in everydimension?Every democratic government always in their goals in achieving inclusiveness in every decision-making process which will prevail in their efforts achieving the full principle of democracy, transparent, accountable, and good governance. Hence, e-participation has profoundly become one set of tools in bridging digital divide between people and their governments (C2G), governments and other government organisations (G2G), government and people (G2C), government and employees (G2E), and government and corporation (G2B) through the utilization advancement of information and communication technology (ICT). In regards to this, the mobile application and Web 2.0 system are often flagged for its potential in improving public participation which intended to improve the current lagging public services and to establish relationships between government and citizens based on virtual information sharing and public debate. Insight of this, does mobile application and Web 2.0 able to deliberately enhance e-participation in everydimension?
Repenser l’identité à l’aune des représentations sociopolitiques libanaises
Authors: Aroufoune Billel
Published: March 2021

Pourquoi s’intéresser à un concept qui est a priori balisé, voire désuet ? L’objectif de ce texte est de montrer que le concept d’identité est toujours opérationnel, notamment s’agissant de terrains de recherche complexes. À travers une étude articulant une approche conceptuelle qui s’appuie sur un cadre théorique en sciences de l’information et de la communication ainsi qu’une enquête par entretien, auprès d’acteurs sociopolitiques et religieux libanais, le présent travail tente d’apporter un éclairage empirique quant à la question de l’identité au Liban.
Classes coopératives multi-âges : une approche alternative des différenciations pédagogiques
Authors: Lescouarch Laurent
Published: March 2021

Dans le cadre d’une recherche collaborative en observation participative dans quatre classes multi-âges en élémentaire, cette contribution étudie une approche de la différenciation pédagogique encore peu diffusée dans les pratiques enseignantes en France : l’entrée par la construction d’un environnement personnalisé et étayant dans des classes coopératives. L’enquête met en perspective la modélisation systémique de l’organisation du travail dans ces classes (inspirées des pédagogies Freinet et Institutionnelles) et les différentes pratiques porteuses de différenciation pédagogique identifiées dans l’activité des enseignant·e·s afin d’en envisager l’intérêt et les limites pour une meilleure prise en compte des besoins d’apprentissage des élèves.
Better Late Than Never
Authors: Terán-Yépez Eduardo , Marín-Carrillo Gema M. , Casado-Belmonte María del Pilar , Capobianco-Uriarte María de las Mercedes
Published: March 2021

This chapter, through an exploratory snapshot, aims to provide the first empirical work in the European context about the perceived effectiveness of sustainability education methods. Thus, based on a sample of 432 students from the Economics and Business Faculty of an Andalusian University (Southern Spain), this study identifies which methods are perceived as being most effective. The findings show that integrating sustainability into universities' strategic plans and implementing sustainability initiatives that actively involve the student through the development of strategic alliances with international universities and institutions, combined with the inclusion of field trips to learn about sustainability are perceived as the most relevant learning approaches.
Determination of Proximate Composition of Malaysian Horseshoe Crab (Tachypleus gigas)
Authors: Iszhan Nashrin , Subakir Farah Nurshahida Mohd , Zaharudin Nazikussabah
Published: March 2021

This study was conducted to investigate proximate content of horseshoe crab (Tachypleusgigas) in Malaysia. To date, there has been little agreement on what the nutrition value of horseshoe crab is and how it will benefit the consumers. The samples were divided by two parts, which are roe and muscle. The Tachypleusgigas was cleaned of foreign materials and impurities manually by human hand. The samples were ground into flour and sieved through 50 μm sieve and were packaged in airtight plastic bags prior to analyses. The horseshoe crab was analyzed for its proximate composition of different body parts. The results showed that the roe and muscle of Tachypleusgigas contained moisture (50.45 % and 73.67 %), ash (0.41 % and 2.72 %), crude proteins (38.24 % and 14.62 %), crude fats (9.30 % and 8.09 %), carbohydrates (1.67 % and 0.91 %) and energy (241.42 Kcal/100 g and 134.43 Kcal/100 g), respectively. This shows that roe has better nutrition content since it has higher protein, fat and carbohydrate content, which are the main energy-providing nutrient. Overall, the proximate content of Tachypleusgigas was nearer to the shellfish rather than the finfish and can be considered as a good nutrition source.
Study on Electrical Conduction Properties of Plasticized CMC-DTAB Based Solid Biopolymer Electrolytes
Authors: Mazuki Nor Fatihah , Singh Pramod Kumar , Samsudin Ahmad Salihin
Published: March 2021

This work focuses on the electrical properties study of solid biopolymer electrolyte (SBE) based plasticized carboxy methylcellulose (CMC) doped dodecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (DTAB). Different weight percentage of ethylene carbonate (EC) which acts as plasticizer was incorporated into SBE system and were successfully prepared via solution casting technique. The conduction properties of SBE was investigated by using electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The incorporation of 10 wt.% EC was found to achieve the highest ionic conductivity with 1.00 10-3 S cm-1 at room temperature. All SBE samples shows the ionic conductivity increased proportionally with temperature thus obeys to Arrhenius behaviour with regression value almost close to unity (R2~1). The electrical conduction behaviour of the CMC-DTAB-EC SBE reveals non-Debye behaviour without single relaxation properties.
Obtaining Bio-Hydrogen from Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) - A Preliminary Evaluation
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamad Mokhtar , Jemaat Zulkifly , Hamid Nour Abdurahman
Published: March 2021

A complete set-up of obtaining bio-hydrogen from palm oil mill effluent (POME) was successfully demonstrated in this study. The proposed set-up is a combination of upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) bioreactor (POME is digested to obtain methane) and subsequent a dry reforming tubular reactor (conversion of methane into bio-hydrogen). The UASB reactor with 10 litres working volume was operated in continuous operation at mesophilic temperature (38 °C), pH was maintained between 6.5 and 7.2 by adding buffering solution containing of 5 gL-1 of calcium oxide (CaO) and hydraulic retention time (HRT) was set at 1 day. Prior to feeding of POME, the UASB reactor was inoculated with sludge taken from anaerobic pond at Lepar Hilir Palm Oil Mill. Then, the reactor was continuously fed with the raw POME with COD concentration of 7,773 mgL-1 and organic loading rate (OLR) of 7.61 g CODL-1d-1. Meanwhile the dry reforming fixed-bed tubular reactor was operated at 750 °C and 0.1 g catalyst type Ni/SBA-15. Biogas produced from the UASB reactor was fed into the tubular reactor and gas samples were collected at the inlet and outlet and analyzed using GC-TCD. On average, the UASB reactor produced about 32 Ld-1 biogas containing of 80 % methane and removing 67 % of COD. This biogas was fed into the dry reforming rector and the reaction took place in the reactor produced about 32 % of H2, 0.24 % of CH4, 28 % of CO2 and 39 % of CO. This result yielded a H2/CO ratio close to 1, demonstrated an efficient route for producing bio-hydrogen gas. Meanwhile, CH4 conversion was recorded at 99.7 %.
In Vitro Anti-Cancer Activities of Luvunga scandens (‘Mengkurat Jakun’) on Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Ichwan Solachuddin Jauhari Arief , bin Yacob Muhammad Azmi , Ramlee Mohamad Arif Mohd , Lestari Widya , Taher Muhammad
Published: March 2021

Luvunga scandens (“Mengkurat Jakun”) is one of the medicinal plant that produce triterpenoid compounds. A number of studies have reported that the compounds possess anti-proliferative activities against various type of cancer cells. The present study aims for anticancer potential of two triterpenoids derived from L. scandens namely flindissol (compound-1) and 3-oxotirucalla-7,24-dien-21-oic-acid (compound-2) on human oral cancer HSC-3 cells. Cytotoxic activities of the triterpenoids were assessed by MTT assay. Apoptosis activities were determined by flow cytometry and caspase 3/7 assay. The MTT assay showed that compounds-1 and -2 markedly induced cytotoxicity on HSC-3 cells with IC50 10.7 μM and 8.3 μM, respectively. Flow-cytometry analysis demonstrated that both compounds increase the percentage of apoptotic cells by 18.2 % and 16.6 % respectively. Moreover, the caspase 3/7 assay confirmed that compounds-1 and -2 markedly induced caspase 3/7 activities in HSC-3 cells. These results suggest that triterpenoids extracted from L. scandens could be a potential candidate for oral cancer treatment.
The Measurement of Saliva and Tongue Coating pH in Patients with Physiological Halitosis before and after Using Selected Mouthwashes
Authors: Lestari Widya , bin Helmy Fandi , bin Zawawi Muhammad Amir Irfan , bin Enche Othman Afiq Aizuddin , Kusumawardani Anisa , Ardini Yunita Dewi
Published: March 2021

Abstract. To analyze saliva and tongue coating pH in healthy patients with physiological halitosis before and after usage of 5 different types of mouthwash available in Malaysia. A quasi-experimental study was conducted among preclinical IIUM dental students aged 18 to 21 years old. Organoleptic evaluation was conducted by the operator to rank their organoleptic score followed by self-assessment by the participants. Saliva and tongue coating pH we measured respectively beforehand, immediately after and 30 minutes after rinsing with 5 different mouthwashes using a digital pH meter and pH strip indicator respectively; 100 participants were assigned into 5 groups, with 20 samples for each brand. Intraclass correlation coefficient between examiners ranged from 0.76-1.0. Data were analyzed statistically by repeated measure ANOVA test for each brand of mouthwash. Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) + test was also used to statistically analyze different pH trends among the five brands of mouthwashes. Significant increase of salivary pH was observed after using MW2 (p<0.001) and MW4 (p=0.015). Significant reduction in salivary pH was observed when using MW5 (p=0.001). For tongue coating pH, significant reduction was observed after using MW2 (p<0.0010), MW3 (p=0.012), and MW4 (p=0.001). However, there was a significant increase in tongue coating pH after using MW5 (p=0.0125). Rinsing with mouthwashes MW2, MW3 and MW4 decreased tongue coating pH, which leads to reduced physiological halitosis
Precursor Profiling of Extracted Pseudoephedrine Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) in Conjunction with Chemometric Procedure
Authors: Nadzri Ainol Hayah Ahmad , Ismail Dzulkiflee , Jayaram Saravana Kumar , Muslim Noor Zuhartini Md , Desa Wan Nur Syuhaila Mat
Published: March 2021

Various methods for the clandestine manufacture of amphetamine-type stimulant (ATS) involve the extraction and subsequent reaction of pseudoephedrine salts with other essential chemicals. The precursor seized in clandestine laboratory operation is supplied from illegal sources or clandestinely extracted from decongestant tablets (despite the presence of excipients that serve to hamper re-extraction). This work reports the organic profiling of pseudoephedrine from a simulated clandestine extract of different decongestant tablets formulations. The study aims to determine the feasibility of the common extraction techniques in removing other excipients to obtain the precursor compound followed by compound identification of the extracted samples by both extraction techniques used namely direct and acid-base extraction. Five different brands of commercially available pseudoephedrine-based decongestant tablets (sample A, B, C, D, and E) at varying strengths were randomly purchased from various commercial pharmacies and reduced to homogenized powder. Samples were then subjected to direct and acid-base extraction procedures. Extracts were subsequently analyzed and profiled using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GCMS) separated using HP-5 MS PDMS column (30m x 250m x 0.25m). Mass spectra were collected with ionization voltage 70 eV, mass range from 40-450 m/z. Data acquisition was obtained with Chemstation software (Agilent, USA) and compounds were identified based on the drug and hydrocarbon library database (NIST 0.6 Version 2.0, USA) and previous literatures. Ethanol solvent recorded the best highest pseudoephedrine yield at 54% for direct simple extraction method from sample B, which was considerably pure as it contains the least excipients compared to the other brands. Meanwhile, acid-base extraction at basic pH in aqueous/diethyl ether (1:2) system at 10 mins agitation recorded higher pseudoephedrine yield (maximum 60.42%) across all the tablets proving that acid-base extraction improved pseudoephedrine purity even for tablets with the complex formulation. Additionally, the GCMS profile reveals the presence of minute excipients within the extracted product. Classification of pseudoephedrine obtained from direct and acid-base methods are shown by principal component analysis (PCA) which account for 77.3% and 78.9% total variation respectively. This information is regarded as chemical profiling useful for forensic intelligence and may assist authorities to combat illegal drug network.
In Silico Functional and Structural Insight of Prenylated Pyrazolocurcumin Derivative Associated with the PGE2 Inhibition through mPGES-1 Blocking
Authors: Mohd Aluwi Mohd Fadhlizil Fasihi , Salim Fatimah , Huq A.K.M. Moyeenul , Rullah Kamal , Wai Lam Kok
Published: March 2021

The search of novel mPGES-1 lead inhibitors has recently become subject of interest to medicinal chemists due to the safety in comparison to existing NSAIDs such as coxibs drugs. The recent published work revealed that prenylated pyrazolocurcumin derivative as mPGES-1 has been sucessfully designed and synthesized through computational guided 3D-QSAR approach. To improve our understanding, the present paper aimed to develop in silico functional and structural insight of the compound including pharmacophore mapping, molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) simulation using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and druglikeness prediction associated with PGE2 suppression through mPGES-1 blocking. The data collected from computational modelling studies provide important insight on the molecular conformation and further shed light towards structural modification of the future novel mPGES-1 inhibitors.
Chemical Constituents Profiles and Antibacterial Activity of Psidium guajava Leaves Essential Oil
Authors: Hussin Nor Naimah , Adzahar Noor Suhana , Lee Thong Chuan , Venugopal Jayarama Reddy
Published: March 2021

The chemical constituents of Psidium guajava essential oil was analyzed by using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. The essential oil was obtained from dried leaves by hydrodistillation method using a Clevenger apparatus. From the initial screening, 20 components were detected with different amounts traced. The most abundant constituents observed in the oil were Limonene (23.39%), Caryophyllene (18.19%), Cyclooctasiloxane (14.46%), and Pinene (13.50%). The essential oil showed significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Enterococcus faecalis and Bacillus cereus with inhibition range of 6-25 mm. The profile of chemical constituents present in the oil able to serve as preliminary screening of the bioactive components posses in a natural plants for investigating antibacterial properties in regenerative medicine.
Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Layer-by-Layer Fabricated Cobalt Porphyrin-Based Nanostructures
Authors: Lamlua Banjongsak , Ohyama Takahiro , Nagao Yuki
Published: March 2021

Metalloporphyrin-based nanostructures were fabricated on 3-aminopropylmethoxysilane-modified indium tin oxide (ITO) surface. UV-visible spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry are used for investigating electronic absorption spectra and catalytic activity in oxygen reduction reactions as alternative cathode electrochemical catalysts for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Using of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(4-amiophenyl)-porphyrin-Co (II) as a building block and 1,4-phenylene diisocyanate as a linker, the mixed toluene/chloroform solution-based layer-by-layer process can produce linear growth of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(4-amiophenyl)-porphyrin-Co (II) up to 30 layers through urea bonds. The vacuum thermal annealing process demonstrated the improvement of catalytic activity in oxygen reduction reaction.
Alkaline Treatment on the Chemical and Morphological Properties of Kelempayan (Neolamarckia cadamba) Wood
Authors: Rahman Wan Mohd Nazri Wan Abdul , Yunus Nor Yuziah Mohd , Tamat Nur Sakinah Mohamed , Sarmin Siti Noorbaini
Published: March 2021

Alkaline treatment has a function to disrupt hydrogen bonding in network structure and to remove some hemicellulose, lignin and extractives for efficient contact with the matrix when preparing composites. Kelempayan (Neolamarkiacadamba) particles were treated using 0.5, 1 and 2% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution at a temperature of 90 °C for 60 minutes periods of immersion. The particles were washed with running tap water to neutralize excess NaOH and oven dried at 80 °C. The treated particles were then grounded to a fine size before being sieved to 60 mesh size of sawdust. Finally, the treated samples were air dried before chemical analysis. The sampling and preparation of sawdust were carried out according to the TAPPI Standard T257 cm - 02 (2002). The changes occurring on Kelempayan’s surface were assessed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Chemical analysis indicated that hemicellulose, lignin and extractives became decreased by increasing alkaline concentration. Morphological analysis showed that treated surface was cleaner and rougher than that of untreated.
Effect of Organic Linkers on Metal-Organic Frameworks Electrode Fabrication for Battery Supercapacitor Hybrid Application
Authors: Sanusi Amir Luqman , Zain Nurul Khairiyyah Mohd , Misnon Izan Izwan , Rajan Jose
Published: March 2021

Metal organic framework (MOFs) of ternary metal precursors with different organic linkers are synthesized and fabricated on Ni-foam as the electrodes via hydrothermal reaction aiming to enhance the electrical conductivity and the specific capacitance, Cs. We report the preparation of ternary metal with different organic linkers named CoCuNi-bi using terephthalic acid (H2bdc), CoCuNi-tri using trimellitic acid and CoCuNi-tetra using pyromellitic acid with increasing of active sites on Ni-foam substrate respectively. The CoCuNi-tetra demonstrates the highest Cs of 740 F g-1 at 2 mV/s & 791 F g-1 (87.9 mAh g­­­-1) at 1 Ag-1 respectively followed by CoCuNi-tri (674 F g-1 at 1 A g-1; 74.9 mAh g-1) and CoCuNi-bi (591 F g-1 at 1 A g-1; 65.7 mAh g-1). CoCuNi-tetra shows the best electrochemical performance hence it could be the encouraging electrode for supercapacitor materials.
The Effects of Different Chemical Treatment Methods and Maleic Anhydride Grafted Polyethylene on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Alpinia galanga Fiber Reinforced Polyethylene Composites
Authors: Binti Mustapha Rohani , Awang Mohamad , Binti Mustapha Siti Noor Hidayah
Published: March 2021

In this study, the effect of different treatments and the addition of maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (MAPE) on the mechanical and thermal properties of Alpinia galanga (AG) fiber/high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites were investigated. The AG fibers were pretreated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and then treated with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (3-APE) as well as treated with p-toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA). The samples were first prepared by melt blending method before being injected to specimen dumbbell shape using an injection moulding machine. Three different fiber loadings were studied, such as 3, 6, 10 and 15 wt%. The tensile test results revealed that the NaOH and 3-APE treatments increased the tensile strength of AG/HDPE composites with the addition of MAPE at all fiber loadings, whereas tensile strength of PTSA treatment improved at 3 wt% fiber loading. The morphological studies confirmed a better adhesion between treated fiber and HDPE matrix with the inclusion of MAPE. Thermal analysis study showed that NaOH, 3-APE and PTSA treatments on AG fibers improved the thermal stability of the composites with an addition of MAPE by delaying the thermal degradation of the composites. The water absorption test proved NaOH and 3-APE treated fiber exhibited lower water absorption than other composites with the inclusion of MAPE. Overall, the results indicated that chemical treatment with NaOH and 3-APE with the presence of MAPE is a good approach towards the development of natural fiber composites.
Erratum: The computed tomography based anatomy of the ossa cuneiformia
Authors: Claaßen Leif , Venjakob Elina , Yao Daiwei , Lerch Matthias , Plaass Christian , Stukenborg-Colsman Christina , Ettinger Sarah
Published: March 2021

There is a lack of basic anatomic informations regarding the ossa cuneiformia. The aim of the present descriptive study was the detailed evaluation of the anatomy of the ossa cuneiformia. We analyzed 100 computer tomography scans of feet without deformities or previous trauma. The length, height and width of each cuneiforme and their articular surfaces were assessed. We itemized the data to gender differences and to foot length. The medial cuneiforme os had a length of 23.8±2.4 mm (mean ± standard deviation), a width of 15.9±2.7 mm and a height of 26.9±3.6 mm. The respective values for the intermediate cuneiforme were 17.7±1.9 mm, 12.4±3.1 mm and 20.8±2.9 mm and for the lateral cuneiforme 24.3±2.9 mm, 14.9±2.9 mm and 17.3±4.3 mm. We found statistical relevant differences regarding gender and foot length subgroups whereas not for all parameters. The present study illustrates basic anatomic data regarding the ossa cuneiformia. This information might be helpful for implant design and placement during midfoot surgery.

Erratum in: https://doi.org/10.4081/or.2019.7876
Table of Contents Vol 67, No 1 & 2 (2020)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: March 2021

No abstract available.
Convalescent plasma as a therapeutic agent for SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Mariamenatu Abeba Haile , Abdu Emebet Mohammed
Published: March 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and SARS-CoV-2 are three kinds of coronaviruses that are exceptionally pathogenic to humans via zoonotic infections. The outbreaks of SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, to some extent, posed a severe threat to human health, daily activities as well as the economic status of many countries. When faced with these emerging viruses and no accessible vaccines and drugs, convalescent plasma (CP) is required as passive immunotherapy, since CP has the potential to neutralize and eliminate the virus from blood circulation. The sources of CP are individuals who have recovered from the viruses. Currently, CP is administered as emergency use and investigational treatment. Some studies have shown that CP is effective to treat infected individuals with viral pandemics such as influenza A, Ebola virus, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV. Moreover, following the deadly outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019, plenty of non-randomized clinical studies have been done on the effectiveness of CP for the treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), and most of these studies have indicated that CP therapy is promising and saved many critically-ill patients. Therefore, CP is a helpful immune therapeutic agent for the immediate response of such pandemics because of its clinical efficacy, immediate availability, cost-effectiveness, ease of production, delivery, and storage. This review aims to summarize the effectiveness of CP in the treatment of these three coronaviruses, i.e. SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2.
“Triple-positive” renal limited vasculitis presenting with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis
Authors: Andhale Amol , Bhawane Amol , Acharya Sourya , Shukla Samarth , Annadatha Akhilesh , Hulkoti Vidyashree
Published: March 2021

Rationale:

Coexistence of anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) disease with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) in a case of glomerulonephritis is often identified as a “double-positive” disease. Interestingly, the majority of “double positive” ANCA is myeloperoxidase (MPO)-ANCA and some of the MPO-ANCA positive cases showed intrarenal arteritis, suggesting an ANCA-associated kidney lesion. Proteinase 3-ANCA positive diseases are also rarely reported. Patients positive for all three antibodies, i.e., triple-positive patients, are extremely rare.

Patient's Concern:

A 53 year-old female presented with anasarca and oliguria of 2 months’ duration.

Diagnosis:

Pauci-immune type renal limited crescentic glomerulonephritis positive for MPO-ANCA, proteinase 3-ANCA, and anti-GBM antibody (triple-positive).

Interventions:

Intravenous high dose cyclophosphamide, oral azathioprine, intravenous methylprednisolone, and plasma exchange as per British Health Professionals in Rheumatology Guidelines.

Outcomes:

After one-month follow-up, anasarca and proteinuria were lessened, serum creatinine was normalized, titers of MPO-ANCA levels were decreased, and anti-GBM antibody levels were normalized.

Lessons:

Triple-positive renal limited vasculitis is rare and response to combined immunosuppressive therapy and plasma exchange can contribute to successful remission.
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Ultrasound-Guided Prolotherapy in Supraspinatus Tendon with Ultrasound-Guided Corticosteroid Injection of Subacromial Subdeltoid Bursa in Rotator Cuff-Related Shoulder Pain
Authors: Nasiri Aref , Mohamadi Jahromi Leila Sadat , Vafaei Mohammad Amin , Parvin Reyhaneh , Fakheri Maryam Sadat , Sadeghi Shahram
Published: March 2021

Background:

Shoulder pain is the third most common type of musculoskeletal disorder and rotator cuff (RC) tendinopathy is the most frequent diagnosis. Ultrasound is the most preferable guidance tool for diagnostic and interventional purposes. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of the prolotherapy injection with corticosteroid injection in patients with RC dysfunction.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty to sixty-five-year-old patients with chronic RC disease were divided into two groups. Ultrasound-guided dextrose prolotherapy of supraspinatus tendon was done for one group and ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection in the subacromial bursa was done for the other groups. Visual analog scale (VAS) and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) were evaluated for both groups at baseline, 3 and 12 weeks after injections.

Results:

Thirty-three patients were included in the result. Both the groups showed significant improvement in VAS and SPADI scores in 3 and 12 weeks after injections compared with preinjection times with no difference between two groups neither in 3 weeks nor in 12 weeks after injections.

Conclusion:

Both ultrasound-guided dextrose prolotherapy and CS injections are effective in the management of RC-related shoulder pain in both short-term and long-term with neither being superior to the other. Therefore, prolotherapy may be a safe alternative therapy instead of corticosteroid injection due to lack of its side effects.