bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategi Mengembangkan Minat Peserta Didik Dalam Pelajaran Akuntansi Di SMA Muhammadiyah Palangkaraya
Authors: Nurbudiyani Iin , Sri Suyati Endang , Purtina Arna
Published: January 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk (1) Mengetahui minat peserta didik dalam pembelajaran Akuntansi, (2) Mengatahui strategi pembelajaran dalam mengembangkan minat peserta didik dalam pelajaran akuntansi. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian kualitatif, yaitu suatu penelitian yang ditujukan untuk mendeskripsikan dan mengalisis fenomena dan peristiwa. Teknik pengumpulan data melalui wawancara, observasi, penyebaran angket dan dokumentasi. Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah data primer dan data sekunder. Berdasarkan hasil analisis data dapat diketahui bahwa: Minat belajar dan pengembangan strategi pembelajaran untuk meningkatkan minat belajar peserta didik kelas XII yang dilakukan guru sudah bervariasi, walaupun pelaksanaannya masih terdapat beberapa kekurangan. Namun kekurangan tersebut dapat diperbaiki didalam proses pembelajaran, terlihat dalam hasil penelitian yang kami peroleh yaitu peserta didik sudah terlihat dalam strategi mengembangkan minat siswa dalam pembelajaran akuntansi pada peserta didik SMA Muhammadiyah 1 Palangkaraya dalam katagori baik.
Pembelajaran Perkalian Dan Pembagian Pada Pecahan Melalui Penggunaan Media Gambar Pada Siswa Kelas V SDN 4 Pasir Panjang
Authors: Mukri Mukri
Published: January 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan perkalian dan pembagian melalui penggunaan media gambar pada siswa kelas V SDN 4 Pasir Panjang. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (Classroom Action Research). Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis data kualitatif dan analisis data kuantitatif. Pembelajaran matematika pada materi Pembelajaran Perkalian dan Pembagian Pada Pecahan dengan media gambar dapat meningkatkan prestasi belajar siswa Kelas V SDN 4 Pasir Panjang Semester I tahun ajaran 2018/2019. Ini terbukti pada penelitian pra siklus rata-rata hasil belajar masih 63,33. Mengalami peningkatan pada siklus I menjadi 69,71 dan meningkat lagi pada penelitian tindakan siklus II sehingga dapat mencapai nilai diatas kriteria minimum 70 yaitu dengan nilai rata-rata 77,08.
Pengaruh Layanan Bimbingan Kelompok Dengan Teknik Psikodrama Terhadap Konsep Diri Siswa Kelas XI SMA Negeri 2 Pemalang
Authors: Safitri Iklima , Supardi Supardi , Ajie Gregorius Rahastono
Published: January 2020

Penelitian ini dilatar belakangi oleh rendahnya konsep diri siswa kelas XI SMA Negeri 2 Pemalang yang dikarenakan siswa bersikap pesimis, tidak mengetahui kemampuan yang ada pada dirinya.Permasalahan yang diangkat dari penelitian ini adalah seberapa besar pengaruh bimbingan kelompok dengan teknik psikodrama terhadap konsep diri siswa. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh bimbingan kelompok dengan teknik psikodrama terhadap konsep diri siswa kelas XI SMA Negeri 2 Pemalang. Sampel yang diambil sebanyak 20 siswa , 10 siswa untuk kelompok eksperimen dan 10 siswa untuk kelompok kontrol dengan multistage sampling yang merupakan kombinasi dua sampling yaitu cluster random sampling dan simple random sampling . Treatment dilaksanakan sebanyak lima kali pada sampel.Hasil uji hipotesis diperoleh thitung sebesar 3,935. Dikonsultasikan dengan ttabel tarafsignifikansi 5% (0,5) yaitu 2,101. Hal tersebut menunjukkan bahwa thitung 3,935>ttabel 2,101. Disimpulkan bahawa ada pengaruh bimbingan kelompok dengan teknik psikodrama terhadap konsep diri siswa kelas XI SMA Negeri 2 Pemalang.
Penurunan Kecemasan Kehamilan melalui Kelas Prenatal
Authors: Meiranny Arum , Wulandari RR Catur Leny , Rahmawati Alfiah , Jannah Muliatul
Published: January 2020

Anxiety is an object of uncertainty. Pregnant mothers' anxiety when facing the pregnancy process is different. Nearly 60% of pregnant women do not routinely perform ANC and most women worry about being referred to the hospital during labor, so many feel anxious. In fact, these complications can basically be detected earlier if the mother routinely and obediently performs an ANC. The solution to this problem is to reduce anxiety and optimize the motivation of pregnant women to develop a program to increase the knowledge of pregnant women and the compliance of pregnant women to carry out ANC with a discussion approach among pregnant women through the formation of Prenatal Classes. The form of science and technology transfer begins with a pre-test and ends with a post-test, education is delivered with an easy-to-understand method that provides material about: nutrition for pregnant women, discomfort of pregnant women, danger signs for pregnant women, preparation for delivery, preparation for breastfeeding, postpartum birth control, and pregnancy exercise. All participants also immediately did pregnancy exercise at the time of implementation according to instructions from the proposing team. In addition, fellow participants also discussed and exchanged experiences about their pregnancy. The anxiety level of pregnant women from the pre-test and post-test results decreased by 6.85%, participants felt calmer in dealing with the process of pregnancy, especially in the face of childbirth. The most important thing for this activity is that the mother will teach other pregnant women.
Pandangan Majlis Tarjih Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Tengah Tentang Tindakan Euthanasia Dalam Pendidikan Waris Islam
Authors: Norcahyono Norcahyono , Ariyadi Ariyadi
Published: January 2020

Penelitian ini adalah penelitian normatif yang bersifat deskriptif kualitatif. Yang pengumpulan datanya dilakukan melalui kajian dari berbagai literatur dan juga dari berbagai pendapat majlis tarjih Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Tengah. Setelah pengumpulan dan pengolahan data, kemudian dilakukan analisis kualitatif. Penelitian yang ada dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian hukum normatif. Penelitian hukum normatif adalah penelitian hukum yang meletakkan hukum sebagai sebuah bagian sistem norma. Sistem norma yang dimaksud adalah mengenai asas-asas, norma kaidah, dari peraturan perundangan, putusan pengadilan, perjanjian serta doktrin (ajaran). Serta tempat penelitian adalah di Majlis Tarjih Muhammadiyah Palangkaraya. Kesimpulan dalam penelitian ini menurut analisis peneliti Majlis Tarjih Muhammadiyah Palangkaraya tidak memberikan putusan tetapi mereka memberikan pandangan terhadap tindakan eutanasia ditinjau dari hukum waris Islam memiliki beberapa kesimpulan sebagai berikut: 1. Mereka bersepakat hukum umum euthanasia (Aktif) adalah haram apapun alasanya. 2. Pelaku euthanasia tidak mendapatkan harta waris dari orang yang dibunuh. 3. Eeuthanasia (pasif) hukumnya boleh. 4. Mereka berselisih pendapat tentang bagaimana hukum orang yang membunuh si yang terbunuh yang mendapat maaf dari keluarga dengan bersedia membayar fidyad (Denda) apakah mendapat warisan atau tidak.
Dimensión económica del turismo accesible: Lecturas para Ecuador
Authors: Díaz Rodríguez Natacha Pahola De las Mercedes , Carranza Díaz Dajhanna Pahola , Carranza Mendoza Sergio Benjamín , Mora Pisco Lilia Lourdes
Published: January 2020

La dimensión económica del turismo accesible, constituye un factor de particular importancia para el desarrollo de la inclusión social como fundamento para el desarrollo humano sostenible, sin embargo, es un fenómeno insuficientemente abordado en la literatura, el mismo aparece más como un enunciado que como un aspecto de relevancia social. A partir de esta consideración este artículo tiene como propósito, ofrecer un análisis sobre la dimensión económica del turismo accesible, derivando lecciones para un país como Ecuador.  Para el análisis se emplean las herramientas de la investigación cualitativa, a partir de la observación y el análisis documental, lo que permite revelar como idea central, la importancia que tiene repensar la práctica del turismo accesible en las diversas regiones del Ecuador como un factor de crecimiento económico y desarrollo social, encadenado con los sectores de la economía nacional.
Serum vitamin B12 and folic acid status in Autism spectrum disorder children
Authors: Mahruba Syeda Nusrat , Begum Shelina , Shahjadi Shorifa , Afroz Sharmin , Siddiqi Umme Raihan , Parvin Jobaida
Published: January 2020

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder. The etiology of ASD involves gene-environmental interaction. Vitamin B12 and folic acid have important roles as methyl donor in many biosynthetic pathways, protein synthesis and formation of myelin sheath throughout the central nervous system. Therefore, deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic acid may act as environmental risk factor for ASD.

Objective: To evaluate serum vitamin B12 and folic acid levels in ASD children.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Shahbag, Dhaka, from 2018 to 2019. Total 100 children 3-10 years of age were enrolled for this study.Among them fifty (50) diagnosed children with ASD were included in the study group. Fifty (50) healthy children constituted the control group. ASD children were selected from the Parent’s Forum for autistic children. No children were included receiving any vitamin supplementation or had acute illness. For this study, serum level of vitamin B12 and folic acid were measured by automated analyzer.For statistical analysis unpaired “t” test and chi square test were done.

Result: The mean values of vitamin B12 and folic acid were significantly lower in ASD children than those of control group (p value <0.05). In addition 4% ASD children had vitamin B12 deficiency.

Conclusion: Low serum vitamin B12 and folic acid was associated with ASD.

J Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2019, December; 14(2): 43-47
Impact of Slow breathing exercise on heart rate variability in male Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yesmin Jenefer , Begum Noorzahan , Ferdousi Sultana
Published: January 2020

Background: Reduced heart rate variability (HRV) with cardiac autonomic nerve dysfunction has been found in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients. Yoga based slow breathing exercise (SBE) improved this autonomic functions in healthy subjects.

Objectives: To assess the effect of SBE on cardiac autonomic nerve function(CANF) by power spectral analysis of HRV in patients with T2DM.

Methods: This prospective interventional study was carried on 30 male diagnosed T2DM patients aged 45-55 years with disease duration 5-10 years enrolled from Out Patient Department of Endocrinology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka. They performed SBE for 30 minutes twice daily for 3 months. Thirty apparently healthy age, BMI matched male who did not undergo any type of exercise were included as control. To assess the cardiac autonomic nerve function, power spectral analysis of HRV of all patients were done before and after 3 months of SBE. HRV data were recorded by polyrite D (RMS India). For statistical analysis, independent sample and paired sample t-test were used.

Results: The preintervention values of Low frequency (LF) normalized unit(nu) and Low frequency/High frequency( LF/HF) ratio were significantly (p<0.001) higher and the values of LF power, HF power, HF normalized unit (HF nu) were significantly (p<0.001) lower in all diabetic patients compared to control. The postintervention values of LF power, HF power, HF nu increased significantly (p<0.001) and the LF nu, LF/HF ratio decreased significantly (p<0.001)compared to their pre-intervention values in T2DM. There were no significant differences between the post intervention values of LF nu, HF nu and LF/HF ratio in T2DM and the control.

Conclusion: Impaired cardiac autonomic nerve function was significantly improved by SBE in T2DM.

J Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2019, December; 14(2): 63-68
Does Vitamin D3 supplementation affect antioxidant enzymes of D3 deficient patients with asthma COPD overlap (ACO)? - A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mahmud Maksuda Bintey , Ali Taskina , Bennoor Kazi Saifuddin , Hossain Md Ali , Rahman Mustafizur , Khan Mohammad Abdus Shakur , Islam Md Saiful , Hassan Samia , Nahar Salsa Bil , Rosy Sharkia Khanam , Sultana Naznin , Anjum Salma
Published: January 2020

Background: Asthma COPD overlap (ACO) is a new disease entity where respiratory tract is continuously exposed to oxidants. Supplementation of vitamin D3 have shown evidence of increasing antioxidant enzymes level which neutralize these oxidants.

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on two antioxidant enzyme levels in D3 deficient ACO patients.

Methods: A double blinded placebo controlled randomized clinical trial (RCT) was carried out on 60 (sixty) D3 deficient [serum 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, 25(OH) D<30 ng/ml], male, smoker, stable ACO patients of age 40 to 80 years. This RCT was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT03931889. After the final selection, all the patients were randomly allocated to vitamin D3 supplemented ‘Study’ group (n=30) or placebo treated ‘Control’ group (n=30). Two antioxidant enzyme levels [plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)] were measured at their baseline. Subsequently, along with standard pharmacological treatment of ACO, ‘Study’ patients received 80,000 IU (2 oral capsules) of vitamin D3 per week for first 13 weeks. Thereafter, according to their serum 25(OH)D or calcium concentration, they received 40,000 IU (1 oral capsule) of D3 per 1 week or per 2 weeks or per 6 weeks or no further supplementation, for another 13 weeks. Whereas, all the ‘Control’ patients received two oral capsules of placebo weekly, for consecutive 26 weeks. All patients of both groups were also advised to have sunlight exposure (within 11 am to 4 pm) only for 20 minutes daily. After 26 weeks of follow up, both enzyme levels of all patients were again measured. Both enzymes were measured by ELISA method using spectrophotometry. Data were analyzed by Student’s paired and unpaired ‘t’ test, where p≤0.05 was accepted as significant.

Results: Initially a total 60 patients were enrolled and randomized, but ultimately 40 of them completed the trial. The baseline antioxidant enzymes levels of two groups were not significantly different. However, the mean level of both enzymes increased in both groups after 26 weeks of follow up but it was statistically significant (p<0.001) only in ‘Study’ patients. In addition, SOD (p<0.05) and CAT (p<0.01) were significantly higher in the vitamin D3 supplemented patients than those of placebo treated patients after 26 weeks of follow up.

Conclusion: The present study reveals that vitamin D3 supplementation increases the antioxidant enzyme level in vitamin D3 deficient stable ACO patients.

J Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2019, December; 14(2): 89-98
THE ROLE OF THE SOVIETS IN THE SOVIETIZATION PROCESS OF THE WESTERN REGIONS OF THE UKRAINIAN SSR (1939-1941)
Authors: STASIUK OLEKSANDRA
Published: January 2020

The article analyzes the role and tasks of the Soviet workers' council in the process of establishing the Soviet power in the western regions of Ukrainian SSR in 1939–1941.
The paper touches upon the issue of the gradual formation of the Soviet branch of power in the region and its staffing, dependence of the representative branch of power and its executive structures from the party committees of the Executive Committee of the Communist Party (VKP (b)) and Communist Party of Ukraine (Bolsheviks) (CP(b)U), as well as the highest state authorities.
It is emphasized that the formal character of decision-making regarding the most important socio-political and economic changes in the region by the representative organs of the Ukrainian SSR and local authorities pushed the Western Ukrainians away from the process of Soviet democracy and Soviet power in general.
Keywords: Western regions of Ukrainian SSR, Sovietization, the activity of the soviets (councils), decorative democracy.
THE IDEAS OF UNITY AND INDEPENDENCE AMONG THE UKRAINIAN YOUTH OF GALICIA IN THE LATE 19th – EARLY 20th CENTURY
Authors: MYSAK NATALIIA
Published: January 2020

The author considers the process of nucleation and formation of the ideas of unity and independence of Ukraine among Galician youth in the late 19th - early 20th centuries. Emphasis is placed on the circumstances and socio-cultural and political background that influenced the formation of these ideas in Galician society. The author has identified the factors that stimulated the national self-identification of Ukrainian youth - high school and university students. Spreading and popularization of the works of Ukrainian poets and writers from the Dnieper region, especially Taras Shevchenko, as a symbol of Ukrainian lands unity in the early 20th century, cultural and educational activities of the secret students' clubs, students' interest in the political life of the region, participation in it despite government ban fostered youth awareness of being a single national organism. As a result, at the beginning of the 20th century, Ukrainian identity became appropriate for a growing number of students. This is evidenced by the gradual displacement from use among youth of ethnonyms "Rusyn," "Ruthenian" and their replacement by the name "Ukrainian". The appearance of the radical movement, the nationalization of its youth wing, and the clear formulation of the purpose – the political independence of the Ukrainian nation, had a significant influence on the formation of independence and unity ideas. The study demonstrated that the publication of Yulian Bachynsky's work "Ukraina Irredenta," its considerable popularity among students, the struggle for the creation of Ukrainian university in Lviv contributed to the establishment of ideas of independence and unity among the youth as the highest goal of the national and political aspirations of Ukrainians.
Keywords: Unity, independence, youth, self-identification, Rusyn, Ukrainian, Galicia.
New Perspectives in the Model of Stress Response
Authors: TONHAJZEROVA I. , MESTANIK M.
Published: January 2020

The reactions of human organism to changes of internal or external environment termed as stress response have been at the center of interest during recent decades. Several theories were designed to describe the regulatory mechanisms which maintain the stability of vital physiological functions under conditions of threat or other environmental challenges. However, most of the models of stress reactivity were focused on specific aspects of the regulatory outcomes – physiological (e.g. neuroendocrine), psychological or behavioral regulation. Recently, a novel complex theory based on evolutionary and developmental biology has been introduced. The Adaptive Calibration Model of stress response employs a broad range of the findings from previous theories of stress and analyzes the responsivity to stress with respect to interindividual differences as a consequence of conditional adaptation – the ability to modify developmental trajectory to match the conditions of the social and physical environment. This review summarizes the contributions of the most important models in the field of stress response and emphasizes the importance of complex analysis of the psycho-physiological mechanisms. Moreover, it outlines the implications for nonpharmacological treatment of stress-related disorders with the application of biofeedback training as a promising tool based on voluntary modification of neurophysiological functions.
Effects of Roflumilast, a Phosphodiesterase-4 Inhibitor, on the Lung Functions in a Saline Lavage-Induced Model of Acute Lung Injury
Authors: KOSUTOVA P. , MIKOLKA P. , KOLOMAZNIK M. , REZAKOVA S. , CALKOVSKA A. , MOKRA D.
Published: January 2020

Acute lung injury (ALI) is associated with deterioration of alveolar-capillary lining and transmigration and activation of inflammatory cells. Whereas a selective phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitor roflumilast has exerted potent anti-inflammatory properties, this study evaluated if its intravenous delivery can influence inflammation, edema formation, and respiratory parameters in rabbits with a lavage-induced model of ALI. ALI was induced by repetitive saline lung lavage (30 ml/kg). Animals were divided into 3 groups: ALI without therapy (ALI), ALI treated with roflumilast i.v. (1 mg/kg; ALI+Rofl), and healthy ventilated controls (Control), and were ventilated for following 4 h. Respiratory parameters (blood gases, ventilatory pressures, lung compliance, oxygenation indexes etc.) were measured and calculated regularly. At the end of experiment, animals were overdosed by anesthetics. Total and differential counts of cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BAL) were estimated microscopically. Lung edema was expressed as wet/dry lung weight ratio. Treatment with roflumilast reduced leak of cells (P<0.01), particularly of neutrophils (P<0.001), into the lung, decreased lung edema formation (P<0.01), and improved respiratory parameters. Concluding, the results indicate a future potential of PDE4 inhibitors also in the therapy of ALI.
Nasal Nitric Oxide in Healthy Adults – Reference Values and Affecting Factors
Authors: ANTOSOVA M. , MOKRA D. , TONHAJZEROVA I. , MIKOLKA P. , KOSUTOVA P. , MESTANIK M. , PEPUCHA L. , PLEVKOVA J. , BUDAY T. , CALKOVSKY V. , BENCOVA A.
Published: January 2020

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important endogenous mediator with significant role in the respiratory system. Many endogenous and exogenous factors influence the synthesis of NO and its level is significantly changed during the inflammation. Analysis of nasal nitric oxide (nNO) is not validated so far as the diagnostic method. There is a lack of reference values with possible identification of factors modulating the nNO levels. In healthy adult volunteers (n=141) we studied nasal NO values by NIOX MINO® (Aerocrine, Sweden) according to the recommendations of the ATS & ERS. Gender, age, height, body weight, waist-to-hip ratio, FEV1/FVC, PEF and numbers of leukocytes, eosinophils, basophils and monocytes were studied as potential variables influencing the levels of nNO. The complexity of the results allowed us to create a homogenous group for nasal NO monitoring and these data can be used further as the reference data for given variables. Because of significant correlation between nNO and exhaled NO, our results support the “one airway – one disease” concept. Reference values of nasal NO and emphasis of the individual parameters of tested young healthy population may serve as a starting point in the non-invasive monitoring of the upper airway inflammation.
The Phantom Decoy Effect on Hotel Room Selection: Impact on choice and perception
Authors: Beck Jeffrey A. , Li Feitong
Published: January 2020

When faced with two similar alternatives, customers struggle to choose one. The concept of a phantom decoy, an attractive but unavailable alternative in the list of choices at the final purchasing stage, may help customers make the choice that best serves the customer and the hotel. Hotel rooms are not always available due to popularity or renovation. In this study, a 2 × 2 experiments was designed to investigate whether a phantom decoy would influence the decision-making behavior of people when they choose hotels, and to test the satisfaction between booking a hotel room using an online travel agent (OTA) and the hotel brand website. Reactance theory and attribution theory were confirmed when a phantom decoy was added to customers’ choice sets.
URETEROSCOPY – AS EMERGENCY TREATMENT PERFORMED FOR URETERAL STONES IN SOLITARY KIDNEY
Authors: Petca Razvan Cosmin , Popescu Razvan Ionut , Sandru Florica , Petca Aida , Dumitrascu Mihai Cristian , Badescu Daniel
Published: January 2020

Acute renal failure caused by ureteral stones represents one of the most important urologic emergencies. Patients with solitary kidney need periodic evaluation and increased attentions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of first choice ureteroscopy as definitive treatment for ureteral calculi in patients with solitary kidney. A series of 43 patients with solitary kidney for specific reasons who underwent primarily ureteroscopy were analyzed from 1 January 2018 to 31 October 2019 at “Prof. Dr. Th. Burghele” Clinical Hospital in Bucharest. All patients were imagistic evaluated with abdominal ultrasound, KUB and intravenous urography when possible. Blood tests and urine tests were analyzed for each case. There were excluded patients with fever or altered clinical status. We enrolled 25 men and 18 females with a mean age of 45.67 years old. The major symptoms at presentation were flank pain and oligo-anuria. Based on the imagistics we estimated a mean stone size about 6.74 mm. Frequently stones were located at pelvic level in 79.06% flowed by lumbar 16.27% and ureteropelvic junction 4.65% The stone free rate was 97.67% without major complications. All cases were standard ureteral stented for 3 weeks and were extracted after reevaluation. More and more studies consider that ureteroscopy as first line management can be a valid option instead of placing a nephrostomy tube or double J stent.
Knowledge , Attitude and Practices of Oral Health among College Students in Mumbai
Authors: Singsit Vahneihoi
Published: January 2020

Aim:The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of Oral Health among College Students in Mumbai. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 students were randomly selected ranging from 17 years to 24 years of age from the 1st,2nd and 3rd year students studying in Arts,Science and Commerce streams respectively. A questionnaire with two parts was used:The first part included demographic data and the second part was designed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice. Prior permission was taken from the Principal of the College to carry out the study.The nature and purpose of the study was explained and informed consent was taken from the students.Data collected was tabulated using Microsoft Excel sheet and was statistically analysed. Results: The knowledge of the students was satisfactory.A majority of students, i.e., 94%, agreed that a person's oral health has an impact on his general health. 59% agreed that Flouridecan prevent dental caries whereas 99% have the knowledge that smoking and tobacco can cause oral cancer.94% agreed that sweet and soft food can affect teeth. While 89%changed their toothbrushes within three months,around 75 % brushed twice daily.Only 58% visited a dentist and only 40% used dental floss and mouthwash. Conclusion: The knowledge of Oral Health among students is satisfactory but their attitude and practices need improvement. Key Words: Attitude, Knowledge, Oral Health, Students
Thymic Epithelial Cells Contribute to Thymopoiesis and T Cell Development
Authors: Wang Hong-Xia , Pan Wenrong , Zheng Lei , Zhong Xiao-Ping , Tan Liang , Liang Zhanfeng , He Jing , Feng Pingfeng , Zhao Yong , Qiu Yu-Rong
Published: January 2020

The thymus is the primary lymphoid organ responsible for the generation and maturation of T cells. Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) account for the majority of thymic stromal components. They are further divided into cortical and medullary TECs based on their localization within the thymus and are involved in positive and negative selection, respectively. Establishment of self-tolerance in the thymus depends on promiscuous gene expression (pGE) of tissue-restricted antigens (TRAs) by TECs. Such pGE is co-controlled by the autoimmune regulator (Aire) and forebrain embryonic zinc fingerlike protein 2 (Fezf2). Over the past two decades, research has found that TECs contribute greatly to thymopoiesis and T cell development. In turn, signals from T cells regulate the differentiation and maturation of TECs. Several signaling pathways essential for the development and maturation of TECs have been discovered. New technology and animal models have provided important observations on TEC differentiation, development, and thymopoiesis. In this review, we will discuss recent advances in classification, development, and maintenance of TECs and mechanisms that control TEC functions during thymic involution and central tolerance.
RETRACTED: Long Noncoding RNA FOXD2-AS1 Promotes the Malignancy of Cervical Cancer by Sponging MicroRNA-760 and Upregulating Hepatoma-Derived Growth Factor
Authors: Dou Xiaoqing , Zhou Qun , Wen Mingxiao , Xu Jiangyan , Zhu Yingping , Zhang Shuzhen , Xu Xianli
Published: January 2020

Although the functions of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) called FOXD2 adjacent opposite strand RNA 1 (FOXD2-AS1) have been well studied in multiple human cancer types, its expression status and detailed roles in cervical cancer remain unknown and merit investigation. This study was aimed at assessing FOXD2-AS1 expression in cervical cancer and at determining its effects on the aggressive behavior of cervical cancer in vitro and in vivo. Expression of FOXD2-AS1 in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines was determined via reverse-transcription quantitative PCR. The effects of FOXD2-AS1 on cervical cancer cells were examined by a 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow-cytometric analysis, migration and invasion assays, and an in vivo tumorigenicity assay. FOXD2-AS1 was found to be significantly upregulated in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines. High FOXD2-AS1 expression was notably linked with the Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, lymph node metastasis, and depth of cervical invasion in patients with cervical cancer. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed significantly shorter overall survival of patients when the tumor expression of FOXD2-AS1 was higher in comparison with those in patients with lower FOXD2-AS1 expression. In vitro functional assays revealed that downregulation of FOXD2-AS1 led to suppression of proliferation, migration, and invasiveness as well as to the induction of apoptosis of cervical cancer cells. In addition, FOXD2-AS1 silencing hindered tumor growth in vivo. Mechanism investigation revealed that FOXD2-AS1 functioned as a molecular sponge of microRNA-760 (miR-760). Furthermore, hepatoma-derived growth factor (HDGF) was validated as a direct target gene of miR-760 in cervical cancer cells. Moreover, an miR-760 knockdown reversed the effects of FOXD2-AS1 silencing on cervical cancer cells. FOXD2-AS1 possesses significant oncogenic activity in cervical cancer progression; this activity is mediated by sponging of miR-760 with consequent upregulation of HDGF. The FOXD2-AS1–miR-760–HDGF axis might harbor promising targets for novel treatment strategies of cervical cancer.
The Economic Sustainability of Farms under Common Agricultural Policy in the European Union Countries
Authors: Guth Marta , Smędzik-Ambroży Katarzyna , Czyżewski Bazyli , Stępień Sebastian
Published: January 2020

The aim of this paper is to determine the influence of the Common Agricultural Policy’s (CAP) subsidies on the level of economic sustainability of farms by means of three-fold study. To determine the economic sustainability of farms the authors applied the income gap ratio. Next, the level of income differentiation between farms of various economic classes was established. The last part consisted of the recognition of statistically significant CAP schemes that shape agricultural income in farms of different size and in assessing how the respective subsidies should increase or decrease to fill the recognized gap, based on the coefficients of panel regression. The spatial scope covered all EU countries in 2005–2015. Results show that due to the CAP’s support the average income of farms has approached the average non-agricultural income, but distribution of this support favored the largest farms, increasing disparities within the sector.
Ca2+/Na+ Ratio as a Critical Marker for Field Evaluation of Saline-Alkaline Tolerance in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)
Authors: Wei Tian-Jiao , Jiang Chang-Jie , Jin Yang-Yang , Zhang Guo-Hui , Wang Ming-Ming , Liang Zheng-Wei
Published: January 2020

Current indices of saline-alkaline (SA) tolerance are mainly based on the traditional growth and physiological indices for salinity tolerance and likely affect the accuracy of alfalfa tolerance predictions. We determined whether the inclusion of soil alkalinity-affected indices, particularly Ca2+, Mg2+, and their ratios to Na+ in plants, based on the traditional method could improve the prediction accuracy of SA tolerance in alfalfa, determine important indices for SA tolerance, and identify suitable alfalfa cultivars in alkaline salt-affected soils. Fifty alfalfa cultivars were evaluated for their SA tolerance under SA and non-SA field conditions. The SA-tolerance coefficient (SATC) for each investigated index of the alfalfa shoot was calculated as the ratio of SA to non-SA field conditions, and the contribution of SATC under different growth and physiological indices to SA tolerance was quantified based on the inclusion/exclusion of special alkalinity-affected indices. The traditional method, excluding the special alkalinity-affected indices, explained nearly all of the variation in alfalfa SA tolerance, and the most important predictor was the SATC of stem length. The new method, which included these special alkalinity-affected indices, had similar explanatory power but instead identified the SATC of shoot Ca2+/Na+ ratio, followed by that of stem length, as key markers for the field evaluation of SA tolerance. Ca2+, Mg2+, and their ratios to Na+ hold promise for enhancing the robustness of SA-tolerance predictions in alfalfa. These results encourage further investigation into the involvement of Ca2+ in such predictions in other plant species and soil types under more alkaline salt-affected conditions.
Effects of Collection Durations on the Determination of Energy Values and Nutrient Digestibility of High-Fiber Diets in Growing Pigs by Total Fecal Collection Method
Authors: Liu Zhengqun , Zhong Ruqing , Chen Liang , Xie Fei , Li Kai , Liu Lei , Zhang Hongfu
Published: January 2020

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of collection durations on the energy values and nutrient digestibility of high-fiber diets in growing pigs with a time-based total fecal collection method. A total of 24 barrows (body weight (BW): 31.1 ± 1.5 kg) were allotted to a completely randomized design with three diets. Diets included a corn–soybean meal (CSM) basal diet and two additional diets containing 20% sugar beet pulp (SBP) or defatted rice bran (DFRB) by replacing corn, soybean meal, and soybean oil in the CSM diet, respectively. Each diet was fed to eight barrows for a 7-day adaptation period followed by a 7-day total feces and urine collection period. The 7-day collection duration was divided into three collection phases, namely, phase 1 (days 8 to 11), phase 2 (days 11 to 13), and phase 3 (days 13 to 15). Then, similar portions of feces and urine from the different collection phases were composited into three additional samples (days 8 to 11, days 8 to 13, and days 8 to 15, respectively). The results showed that the digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME), and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of gross energy (GE) and nutrient in experimental diets decreased linearly as the collection durations increased from a 3-day to a 7-day collection (p < 0.05). However, there were no differences in the energy values, GE, and nutrient digestibility of diets and of high-fiber ingredients between the 5-day and 7-day collection durations. In conclusion, this study suggests that a 5-day collection duration is adequate to determine the energy values and nutrient digestibility of high-fiber diets containing SBP or DFRB in growing pigs by the time-based total fecal collection method.
Ventilator-Associated Tracheobronchitis: To Treat or Not to Treat?
Authors: Koulenti Despoina , Arvaniti Kostoula , Judd Mathew , Lalos Natasha , Tjoeng Iona , Xu Elena , Armaganidis Apostolos , Lipman Jeffrey
Published: January 2020

Ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis (VAT) is an infection commonly affecting mechanically ventilated intubated patients. Several studies suggest that VAT is associated with increased duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) and length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and a presumptive increase in healthcare costs. Uncertainties remain, however, regarding the cost/benefit balance of VAT treatment. The aim of this narrative review is to discuss the two fundamental and inter-related dilemmas regarding VAT, i.e., (i) how to diagnose VAT? and (ii) should we treat VAT? If yes, should we treat all cases or only selected ones? How should we treat in terms of antibiotic choice, route, treatment duration?
Cyclic Behavior of Anchored Blind-Bolted Extended End-Plate Joints to CFST Columns
Authors: Wang Yihuan , Wang Zhan , Pan Jianrong , Wang Peng , Qin JianGui , Chen Shizhe
Published: January 2020

As the square steel tube in the tension zone is always the weakest part of moment-resisting joints, modified blind bolts (Hollo-Bolts) and a locally strengthened steel tube in the panel zone were adopted to enhance the joint performance. Cyclic loading tests were carried out on eight anchored blind-bolted extended end-plate joints between square concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) columns and steel beams. The test parameters included the end-plate thickness, steel tube wall thickness, beam section size, local strengthening connection method, blind bolt anchorage method, and stiffeners. The failure mode, hysteretic behavior, stiffness, strength, ductility, strength degradation, stiffness degradation, and energy dissipation capacity of the joints were studied and analyzed. The test results showed that the application of anchored blind bolts and a locally strengthened steel tube can fully utilize the bolt strength and significantly improve the joint performance, especially in terms of strength and strength degradation. The test observations revealed three typical failure modes for the joints, and the failure mode depended on the weakest component. In addition, the local reinforcement of C-channel and change in the anchorage method had a limited effect on the initial stiffness. Greater end-plate thickness and the use of stiffeners significantly increased the joint stiffness and decreased the rate of stiffness degradation. The use of stiffeners also significantly enhanced the ductility and energy dissipation by moving plastic hinge outward from the joints. Finally, finite element analysis (FEA) models were developed and validated against the experimental results, and the stress distribution and force transfer pattern were investigated.
Ground Simulation Tests in Two-Dimensional Dynamic Acceleration Environment
Authors: Zhang Yanbing , Ma Tiehua , Zhang Hongyan , Wu Yaoyan , Wu Zhibo , Yu Junzhi
Published: January 2020

Acceleration environment (AE) simulation tests have been widely applied in various areas such as aviation, space, environmental medicine, medical science, biomedicine, and materials. Most existing AE simulation test methods adopt impact and flight overload simulation separately, which cannot realize the synchronous controllable loading of two-dimensional (2-D) dynamic acceleration. In this paper, we propose and implement an AE simulation test method using an air-cannon-started compound centrifugal turntable. Specifically, our method emphasizes two processes, i.e., orderly transition from impact overload to steady-state overload and synchronous loading of 2-D dynamic AE. To further facilitate the method verification in AE, we develop a specialized simulation test platform. During field tests, axial acceleration of the unit being tested reached 20 g in 0.12 s at the launching stage and radial acceleration raised from zero g to 40 g in 0.5 s at the flight stage, achieving simulation of the 2-D dynamic AE. The obtained results show the effectiveness of the proposed simulation method, shedding light on updated design and control of impact simulation tests on the structures of crystal oscillator circuit, acceleration sensors, and related instruments.
Exploring the Evolution of Drought Characteristics in Balochistan, Pakistan
Authors: Jamro Shoaib , Channa Falak Naz , Dars Ghulam Hussain , Ansari Kamran , Krakauer Nir Y.
Published: January 2020

In the wake of a rapidly changing climate, droughts have intensified, in both duration and severity, across the globe. The Germanwatch long-term Climate Risk Index ranks Pakistan among the top 10 countries most affected by the adverse effects of climate change. Within Pakistan, the province of Balochistan is among the most vulnerable regions due to recurring prolonged droughts, erratic precipitation patterns, and dependence on agriculture and livestock for survival. This study aims to explore how the characteristics of droughts have evolved in the region from 1902–2015 using 3-month and 12-month timescales of a popular drought index, the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). The region was divided into six zones using Spatial “K”luster Analysis using Tree Edge Removal (SKATER) method, and run theory was applied to characterize droughts in terms of duration, severity, intensity, and peak. The results of the non-parametric Mann–Kendall trend test applied to SPEI indicate prevailing significant negative trends (dryer conditions) in all the zones. Balochistan experienced its most severe droughts in the 1960s and around 2000. The effects of climate change are also evident in the fact that all the long duration droughts occurred after 1960. Moreover, the number of droughts identified by 3-month SPEI showed a significant increase after 1960 for all six zones. The same trend was found in the 12-month SPEI but for only three zones.
Physicochemical Properties of African Catfish Mucus and Its Effect on the Stability of Soya Milk Emulsions
Authors: Oluwole Adebanji Joseph Olasupo , Ikhu-Omoregbe Daniel Imwansi , Jideani Victoria Adaora
Published: January 2020

Mucus, a waste product produced when African catfish undergoes stress, has lubricating effects and could be a potential emulsifier. Emulsions are thermodynamically unstable; researchers have documented synthetic bio-polymers as emulsifiers, but its sustainability is in question. This research aims to establish some physicochemical properties of African catfish mucus (ACM) and its effect in soya milk emulsions. A Zetasizer and Turbiscan were used to measure stability, morphology was determined with Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), while functional groups in ACM and ACM-stabilized soya milk emulsions were determined using Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infra-red spectroscopy. ACM is a stable hydrogel with negatively charged (−36.2 mV) loosely bound electrons with polar and non-polar portions. ACM concentrations of 1, 3, and 5 g w/w stabilized soya milk emulsions after 180 min of storage. The spectra of stabilized emulsion revealed interactions with soya milk droplets. ACM encapsulated the stabilized emulsion and conferred a kind of cohesive interaction and stability. Turbiscan revealed that the mucin formed strong cohesive connections with stabilized emulsions and the mucin exhibited adhesive properties. ACM is an excellent natural emulsifier with mucoadhesive properties as it encapsulates soya milk to enhance stability.
Carbon-Based Catalysts for Biodiesel Production—A Review
Authors: Clohessy Jack , Kwapinski Witold
Published: January 2020

In recent years, a new class of superior heterogeneous acid catalyst for biodiesel production has emerged. These catalysts offer advantages over their predecessors such as high surface area, elevated acid site density, enhanced catalyst activity, good operation stability and relevant economic affordability in an environmentally friendly frame. This review was concerned with carbon-based solid acid (CBAS) catalysts derived from both carbohydrate and pyrolysis products. A series of CBASs with various origins such as D-glucose, sucrose, starch, cellulose and vegetable oil asphalt, converted to char and sulphonated, have been explored as potential heterogeneous catalysts. Catalyst preparation and synthesis methods were briefly summarized. Catalyst characterization and performance for biofuels related reactions were elucidated, identifying potential research applications. Three catalysts in particular were identified as having potential for industrial application and requiring further research.
White Matter Network Alterations in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Authors: Lama Ramesh Kumar , Lee Sang-Woong
Published: January 2020

Previous studies have revealed the occurrence of alterations of white matter (WM) and grey matter (GM) microstructures in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and their prodromal state amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In general, these alterations can be studied comprehensively by modeling the brain as a complex network, which describes many important topological properties, such as the small-world property, modularity, and efficiency. In this study, we systematically investigated white matter abnormalities using unbiased whole brain network analysis. We compared regional and network related WM features between groups of 19 AD and 25 MCI patients and 22 healthy controls (HC) using tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS), network based statistics (NBS) and graph theoretical analysis. We did not find significant differences in fractional anisotropy (FA) between two groups on TBSS analysis. However, observable alterations were noticed at a network level. Brain network measures such as global efficiency and small world properties were low in AD patients compared to HCs.
An IoT-Based Glucose Monitoring Algorithm to Prevent Diabetes Complications
Authors: Valenzuela Francisco , García Armando , Ruiz. Erica , Vázquez Mabel , Cortez Joaquín , Espinoza Adolfo
Published: January 2020

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by blood glucose levels above normal limits. The impact of this disease on the population has increased in recent years. It is already a public health problem worldwide and one of the leading causes of death. Recently, several proposals have been developed for better and regular monitoring of glucose. However, theses proposals do not discard erroneous readings and they are not able to anticipate a critical condition. In this work, we propose an algorithm based on the double moving average supported by an IoT architecture to prevent possible complications in elderly patients. The algorithm uses historical readings to construct a series. Given a number of periods, it is possible to calculate averages of different subsets and trends for the next periods and, in this way, the prognosis is obtained. With the prognosis, it is possible to notify the doctor and relatives in advance about a possible critical condition in the patient. The aim of our work is to validate the architecture and prognosis algorithm used for elderly persons. Tests of the algorithm and the architecture were performed with different readings and it was shown that the system generated corresponding notifications before the glucose values were higher than those defined by the WHO (World Health Organization), thus avoiding unnecessary alarms.