bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contributing factors in aircraft accidents triggering fatalities
Authors:   , Chalayonnawin Prakayphet
Published: September 2023

Air transport has always been considered the safest way to travel. It has contributed numerous economic and social benefits, for instance, connecting multimodal modes of transportation, increasing employment, driving global and local economic activities, reducing travel time and generating trade, tourism, and services, connecting people and countries, and supporting humanitarian activities in a remote rural area. Historical records on the fatality ratio suggested that air transportation has the highest likelihood of accidents (occurrences with fatalities) when compared to all other transportation modes, including highway, railroad, and water. Then, when an accident occurs, it largely affects various stakeholders. This study aims to re-analyze the worldwide aircraft accidents from 2014 to 2017, by (1) identifying the contributing factors that trigger accidents (occurrences with fatalities) and (2) providing the countermeasures accounting for all high-risk accidents and significant contributing factors, for the mitigation/prevention of the future occurrences. A mixed method of quantitative and qualitative approaches was conducted. Ten aviation safety experts were recruited for an interview.  Worldwide commercial aircraft accidents were collected from accident databases, final investigation reports, and various aviation communities. Factors derived from the expert interview and the precedent aircraft accidents were analyzed by adopting binary, censored, and ordered logistic regressions. Results revealed that time of day, aircraft size, and the effective implementation of State of occurrence has an impact on accidents. The predicted model suggested that flights during 00:00-05:59, operating on a small-sized aircraft with an MTOW of 5,701-27,000 kg, and flying on the route to/from/over a State of occurrence with a low effective implementation signify the likelihood of an accident occurring. Remarkably, the effective implementation of the State of occurrence was discovered that it has an impact on the number of fatalities, and the level of aircraft damage. As a result, it is the key to mitigating and preventing future mishaps. Considering the improvement of the State of occurrence effective implementation, countermeasures were proposed and classified into 7 dimensions: State legislation, regulations, guidance, and plan; safety management, oversight, and audit; State certification, authorization, and approval; infrastructure and equipment; protocols and procedures; operation and services; and qualification, competency, training of personnel. Ultimately, advancing the State’s safety oversight system will lead to the mitigation and prevention of future accidents.
Development of novel point-of-care-testing for oxalate detection in urine based on oxalate-binding ligands
Authors:   , Joybumrung Naruerat
Published: September 2023

Kidney stone disease is the third most common urinary tract disease worldwide that is more prevalent in the tropics. In Thailand, the highest stone prevalence up to 17% is reported in the Northeast. The disease is highly recurrent with a recurrence rate of about 50% within 5-10 years. The most common type of kidney stones is calcium oxalate (CaOx), and an increased urinary oxalate excretion is an important risk factor. Most of kidney stone patients have a hyperoxaluria condition (urinary oxalate >40 mg/day or >0.46 mmol/day). Therefore, urinary oxalate measurement has been widely used for estimating the risk of CaOx stone formation and predicting the stone recurrence. In this study, we first aimed to develop the new method for oxalate measurement in human urine using a newly discovered compound (Cu-nat5-BPG complex) that was shown to specifically bind to oxalate in condition 80% acetonitrile aqueous solution buffered with 10 mM HEPES pH 7.0. Due to the complex matrix in urine sample, we found that the binding of oxalate to Cu-nat5-BPG complex was significantly interfered by some common urinary substances, i.e., creatinine, calcium, and magnesium. Moreover, the level of oxalate excretion in human urine is usually less than 40 mg/day, and this level was below the detection limit of the Cu-nat5-BPG complex method. We, therefore, shifted the goal to establishment of urinary oxalate measurement using oxalate oxidase (OxOx) enzyme coupled with horse radish peroxidase. We cloned and expressed the recombinant barley oxalate oxidase (rBarley-OxOx) in yeasts, Pichia pastoris. Our data showed that we successfully cloned and expressed the rBarley-OxOx in P. pastoris, and the purified recombinant proteins were confirmed to be rBarley-OxOx by mass spectrometry. However, the yield of rBarley-OxOx was relatively small, and it was not feasible to upscale for the further use. We had changed the study plan again from producing our own OxOx to buying the OxOx that commercially available. We purchased the OxOx enzyme (purified from barley seedings) from the Roche Diagnostics and established the procedure for oxalate detection in urine samples. Oxalate concentrations were measured in 191 urine samples collected from Maha Sarakham Province, Thailand. The result found that the urinary oxalate level in non-stone former (NS-group, n=122) was significantly lower than that in the kidney stone patients (KS-group, n=69). Urinary oxalate level measured by the OxOx method was positively correlated with the urinary oxalate level measured by the HPLC method. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that the OxOx enzymatic method was a more specific and effective method for measuring urinary oxalate than the Cu-nat5-BPG complex method. Based on our findings, cloning and expressing the plant OxOx in yeasts was laboratory feasible, but it was not recommended for further commercial use mainly due to a relatively low yield.
Hepatic lesion detectability on dual energy computed tomography imaging : phantom study
Authors:   , Jantawong Hataipat
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine the hepatic lesion detectability in abdomen from various phantom sizes by dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) imaging and to investigate the factors affecting the detectability of hepatic lesion in abdomen by dual-energy CT in phantom study. The anthropomorphic liver with nodule inserted phantom with extension rings simulating the small, medium, and large patients were scanned under DECT acquisitions by varying three kVp combinations (80/-,90/-, and 100/Sn150-kVp). The series of 40-,50-,60-, and 70-keV VMI were generated from DECT data set. All images were used to assess the task-based image quality; task transfer function (TTF), noise power spectrum (NPS), and detectability index (d’) with the diagnostic task to detect 15 mm diameter hyperattenuating hepatic lesion based on clinical task of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detection in CT imaging. In addition, the accuracy of iodine quantification in DECT for various kVp combinations was performed by using the customized 3D- printed liver nodule phantom. The result showed that the TTF increased as increasing the VMI energy level from 40-70 keV and the maximum values of 50%TTF (f50) was found at 70 keV VMI. The noise magnitude increased as increasing the phantom size and decreasing the VMI-energy and when the kV on x-ray tube A increased. The results of d’ demonstrated that as increased phantom sizes and decreased the energy level , the d’ decreased. The measured iodine concentrations with DECT were strongly related to the true concentrations with the percentages of iodine quantification error within ±20% for concentration at 2.0-5.0 mgI/cc in all kV combinations. In conclusion, for the small phantom, the imaging condition yields the highest d’ was at the 70keV-VMI acquired with 80/Sn150 kV. For the medium and large phantom sizes, the highest d’ was at the 70keV-VMI acquired by 100/Sn150 kV. The percentage of iodine quantification error in the range of 2.0-5.0 mgI/cc was within ±20% in all kV combination settings.
Dosimetric comparison of rapidplan and manually optimized plans for hippocampus avoidance whole brain radiation therapy
Authors:   , Phimolasawakun Laksamon
Published: September 2023

Nowadays, whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) is a good method to cure brain metastases. However, it has been noted that whole-brain radiation therapy could be a cause to neurological toxicity which could damage the hippocampus that is an important part of forming long-term memories. The HA-WBRT is a complicated plan depending on planner skills, the researcher would like to simplify this problem using knowledge-based planning called RapidPlan. The objective of this study was to compare the dosimetric difference of RapidPlan and manually optimized plans for the treatment of HA-WBRT. The RapidPlan model was created for HA-WBRT. The PTV and OARs constraints are followed by RTOG 0933 criteria. Twenty cases were used for creating the RapidPlan model and ten cases were used for comparing RapidPlan and manual plans. The treatment prescription to the whole brain PTV was prescribed to 30 Gy. The results showed the PTV optimization using RapidPlan was more effective than manual plans. With the same D90% of PTV between RapidPlan and manual plans, the D98% of RapidPlan and manual plans were 27.69±0.98 Gy and 25.83±1.86 Gy, respectively. Moreover, RapidPlan showed slightly better in CI and HI of PTV than manual plans. The maximum dose to the hippocampus of RapidPlan and manual plans were 15.66±1.29 Gy and 14.42±1.23 Gy, respectively. The doses between the two optimized types were not significantly different (p>0.05). The D100% of hippocampus of RapidPlan and manual plans were 9.25±0.35 Gy and 8.72±0.55 Gy, respectively. On the other hand, RapidPlan can spare more optic nerves than manual plans while manual plans can spare more lenses than RapidPlan.

          In conclusion, HA-WBRT in VMAT technique using RapidPlan and a manual plan was able to maintain the radiation dose within the RTOG 0933 constraint. RapidPlan shows better PTV coverage and presents significantly conforms the dose to the target than manually optimized plans. Although the manual plans performed better than RapidPlan in the hippocampus, it was not a significant different. It can be concluded that the RapidPlan can be used in clinical terms with a slight adjustment for well-optimized plans.
Determination of field output correction factors in elongated small field photon beams
Authors:   , Vimolnoch Mananchaya
Published: September 2023

IAEA along with AAPM have published a code of practice TRS 483 for small field dosimetry. The field correction output factors of various detectors were introduced to correct detector response changes in relative dosimetry. However, the publication of TRS 483 has focused on symmetry field sizes, the correction factors for elongated small fields are not included in the protocol. The overall objective of this work is to determine the field output correction factor in elongated small field. The correction factors of IBA CC01, Sun nuclear EDGE, and Exradin W2 PSD for 6 MV photon beam were determined using Monte Carlo (MC) simulation. The ratio of absorbed dose of water and of detectors was calculated using egs_chamber code, both at a depth of 10 cm with 90 cm SSD. The elongated field sizes were 3x2, 2x3, 1.5x4, 4x1.5, 1x6, 6x1, 0.6x10, and 10x0.6 cm2.  The phase-space files from a Varian TrueBeamTM were used as a particle source. The calculated correction factors from this study were verified against the experiment. The field output factors (FOF) were measured using the same detectors, field sizes, and linear accelerator machine that were simulated with MC method. The comparison between FOF corrected with our correction factor and from TRS 483 was analyzed using percent standard deviation (%SD). For 3x2, 2x3, 1.5x4, and 4x1.5 cm2, the maximum %SD of uncorrected FOF was 1.1%. The FOF corrected with our correction factors and TRS 483 give the comparable %SD of 0.6%. For extremely elongated field sizes (1x6, 6x1, 0.6x10, and 10x0.6 cm2), the maximum %SD was 7.3% for uncorrected FOF. When our correction factors were applied, this value dropped to 3.8%. In contrast, the corrected FOF with TRS 483 gives the %SD of 6.9%. For IBA CC01 ionization chamber the correction factors were up to 7% for the smallest side of the fields, the most important contribution to the correction factor is volume averaging effect. The correction factors for Edge detector were of the order of -3% for the smallest side of the fields. The W2 PSD the correction factors are within 1% even for extremely elongated fields due to water equivalence characteristics. TRS 483 recommended to determine the  for selecting the correction factor when the field is not too elongated with the ratio of Y/X FWHM in the range between 0.7-1.4. Our results show that the range may be extended up to 0.3-2.5 due to the %SD was less than 1% when the FOF was corrected with either our correction factor or TRS 483 for 1.5x4 and 4x1.5 cm2. However, when the field size becomes extremely elongated, the definition of equivalent square small field size ( ) is no longer hold. Then, the correction factor should be determined follow TRS 483.
Attenuation of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and uremia induced gut-leakage by Lactobacillus rhamnosus L34, a probiotic derived from Thai population, in 5/6 nephrectomy model mice; an experimental study
Authors:   , Tungsanga Somkanya
Published: September 2023

Background: Although pathogenic gut microbiota causes gut leakage, increases translocation of uremic toxins into circulation, and accelerates CKD progression, the local strain of Lactobacillus rhamnosus L34 (L34) might attenuate gut leakage. We explored the effects of L34 on kidney fibrosis and levels of gut-derived uremic toxins (GDUTs) in 5/6-nephrectomy (5/6 Nx) mice.
Methods: At 6 weeks post-5/6 Nx in mice, either L34 (1x106 CFU) or phosphate buffer solution (as 5/6 Nx control) were daily fed for 14 weeks. In vitro, the effects of L34-conditioned media with or without indoxyl sulfate (a representative GDUT) on inflammation and cell integrity (transepithelial electrical resistance; TEER) were assessed in Caco-2 (enterocytes). In parallel, the effects as such on pro-inflammatory cytokines and collagen expression were assessed in HK2 proximal tubular cells.
Results: At 20-weeks post-5/6 Nx, L34-treated mice showed significantly lesser renal injuries, as evaluated by i) kidney fibrosis area (p<0.01) with lower serum creatinine and proteinuria, ii) GDUT including trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) (p=0.02) and indoxyl sulfate (p<0.01), and iii) endotoxin (p=0.03) and serum TNF-α (p=0.01), than 5/6 Nx-controls. Fecal-microbiome analysis revealed an increased proportion of Bacteroidetes in 5/6 Nx-controls. After incubation with indoxyl sulfate, Caco-2 enterocytes had higher IL-8, NF-κB expression, and lower TEER value, and HK2 cells demonstrated higher gene expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and collagen (type III and type IV). These indoxyl sulfate-activated parameters were attenuated with L34-conditioned media indicating the protective role of L34 on enterocyte integrity and renal fibrogenesis.
Conclusion: Lactobacillus rhamnosus L34 attenuated uremia-induced systemic inflammation by reducing GDUTs and gut-leakage that provided reno-protective effects in CKD.
Effect of remaining dentin thickness and primer application technique on microtensile bond strength
Authors:   , Somrit Paphawee
Published: September 2023

To evaluate the effect of primer application techniques, type of adhesives and remaining dentin thicknesses on microtensile bond strength (µTBS) of 4 different adhesive systems, 112 Flat occlusal surfaces of sound third molar were randomly allocated into 16 groups based on 2 remaining dentin thicknesses (RDT), 2 application techniques and 3 adhesive systems, e.g., Three step etch-and-rinse (Optibond FL; OFL), Two step self-etch (Clearfil SE Bond; CSE), and Universal adhesive (Single Bond Universal; SB). SB was applied in either etch-and-rinse (ER) or self-etch (SE) mode. Simulated pulpal pressure was performed during bonding procedure and 6-month water storage (37 oC). After resin composite buildup and water storage, stick-shaped specimens from each tooth underwent µTBS testing. Statistical analysis was performed with three-way ANOVA test and Tukey Post Hoc test. The fractured specimens were evaluated for mode of failure using a stereomicroscope. The fracture sufaces of each group were also observed using SEM. The mean µTBS values were significantly affected by RDT, application technique, and types of adhesive. Neither RDT nor primer application technique affected µTBS of SB in ER mode whereas application technique affected both conventional and universal self-etch adhesive. RDT also influenced µTBS of OFL. The RDT and application technique differently affects the µTBS of dentin bonding which is product-related. Etch-and-rinse systems had higher bond strength to superficial dentin than to deep dentin whereas self-etch systems were more sensitive to both RDT and application technique. The universal adhesive should be use following the manufacturer's recommendations when apply on either superficial or deep dentin.
Effect of Shear force on immunosuppressive property of human periodontal ligament cells
Authors:   , Suwittayarak Ravipha
Published: September 2023

The immunomodulatory property is to regulate immune cell function. IDO and TGF-β1 inhibited T cell proliferation and induced regulatory T (Treg) cells differentiation. However, this property must be activated by inflammation. Recently, mechanical forces have also activated this property. Hence, this study investigated effect of shear stress on immunosuppressive property of hPDL cells. Cells were subjected to shear stress then expression of IDO, TGF-β1, IFN-gamma and COX2 mRNA and protein was examined by qRT-PCR, ELISA, and IDO activity. Conditioned media derived shear stress were treated with CD4+ T cells. The proliferative T cell effect was determined using resazurin. The FOXP3, IL-10, and CD4+CD25hiCD127lo/- were tested using qRT-PCR and flow cytometry. Our result showed the IDO-dependent kynurenine and TGF-β1 were increased under shear stress. The addition of ERK inhibitor, or cycloheximide inhibited shear stress-induced kynurenine. Shear stress-derived conditioned medium (SS-CM) inhibited T cell proliferation. Also, SS-CM enhanced FOXP3 and IL-10 mRNA and increased Treg cells. In conclusion, shear stress enhances immunosuppressive property of hPDL cells, thereby inhibit T cells proliferation and promote Treg cell differentiation. The potential of shear force in regulating immunosuppressive property may possibly be applied in periodontitis to regulate inflammation and trigger tissue regeneration.
Effects of local versus systemic administration of CXCR4 inhibitor AMD3100 on orthodontic tooth movement in rats
Authors:   , Ongprakobkul Narubhorn
Published: September 2023

Chemokines play pivotal roles in orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) through osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We aimed to elucidate the effects of serial local vs systemic administration of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100 on OTM. The maxillary right first molar (M1) of rats was moved mesially using a 10 g of force nickel-titanium coil spring. The injections were performed every other day with phosphate-buffered saline as a control, whereas local and systemic animals were injected with AMD3100 at the buccal palatal mucosa adjacent to M1 and subcutaneously, respectively. OTM distance and alveolar bone were examined by microcomputed tomography and histologic analysis. Osteoclast numbers were quantified using TRAP staining. Cathepsin K and stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) were evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction for cathepsin K, Runx2, SDF-1, CXCR4, RANKL, and OPG were also examined. The results showed that OTM and osteoclast numbers were significantly decreased in the local and systemic groups compared with the control group, whereas there was no significant difference among the experimental groups. Local administration inhibited molar but not incisor movement. Trabecular thickness of the alveolar bone significantly increased in the systemic group compared with the control group, whereas local injection also affected bone quality in the same tendency as a systemic injection. AMD3100 significantly downregulated the mRNA expression levels of cathepsin K, Runx2, SDF-1, RANKL, and RANKL/OPG ratio in both experimental groups. In conclusion, local administration of AMD3100 can control initial OTM and diminish bone resorption processes during OTM via inhibition of the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis, similar to the systemic administration.
Differences of sound and morphology in skeletal class III patients
Authors:   , Pravitharangul Natthaporn
Published: September 2023

[Background] This study aimed to explore differences in vowel production using acoustic analysis in skeletal Class III and Class I Japanese participants, and to investigate the correlation between vowel sounds and cephalometric variables in skeletal Class III subjects.

[Materials and Methods] Japanese males with skeletal Class III (ANB<0°) and Class I skeletal relationships (0.62°<ANB<5.94°) were recruited (n=18/group). Acoustic analysis of vowel sounds and cephalometric analysis of lateral cephalograms were performed. For sound analysis, an isolated Japanese vowel (/a/, /i/, /u/, /e/, /o/) pattern was recorded. Praat software was used to extract acoustic parameters such as fundamental frequency (F0) and the first four formants (F1, F2, F3, and F4). The formant graph area was calculated. For cephalometric analysis, cephalometric values were obtained by ImageJ. Correlations between acoustic and cephalometric variables in skeletal Class III subjects were then investigated.

[Results] Skeletal Class III subjects showed significantly higher /o/F2 and lower /o/F4 values. Mandibular length, SNB, and overjet of Class III subjects were moderately negatively correlated with acoustic variables.
Cellular responses of stem cells isolated from human exfoliated deciduous teeth towards different concentration of calcium ion
Authors:   , Phlinyos Thanika
Published: September 2023

Objectives:  The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Ca2+ on proliferation, osteogenic differentiation, and migration of stem cells from human exfoliated teeth (SHEDs) in vitro   Materials and methods: SHEDs were seeded in culture media and osteogenic induction media containing 1.8-16.2 mM of Ca2+.  SHEDs proliferation was determined using MTT assay and colony forming unit assay. Osteogenic differentiation was evaluated using mineralization assay and osteogenic marker gene expression and cell migration was evaluated using wound healing assay. Values were expressed as mean + S.D. Statistical analysis of MTT assay and wound healing assay were performed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s range test. Other assays were analyzed using one-way ANOVA.  Results: Different Ca2+ concentration did not affect cell proliferation and colony forming unit. While, osteocalcin, an osteogenic marker gene, was significantly increased at day 7 in 9.0 and 12.6 mM group (p<0.05). The result was also consistent with alizarin red and Von kossa staining, which had the most staining in 9.0 mM group. However, higher Ca2+ concentration inhibited SHEDs migration at 24 hours compared to control (1.8 mM).  Conclusion: Ca2+ concentration between 1.8 and 16.2 mM did not have any effects on proliferation and colony forming unit. On the other hand, higher Ca2+ seemed to induce late stage osteogenic differentiation and mineralization, but migration was inhibited.
Sustainable two-step MINLP heat exchanger network synthesis with practical detailed design
Authors:   , Boonvaerojkul Thanawat
Published: September 2023

Due to sustainable development that focuses on energy conservation, decreasing emissions and environmental effect, the research of heat exchanger network synthesis (HENS) is still necessary and challenging. Most academic studies in the subject of HENS aim on reducing total annual cost (TAC) through optimal topology design without the detailed design costs of each heat exchanger in the network, resulting in conceptual HEN designs. Hence, the detailed design of shell and tube heat exchangers is recalculated for TAC and corrected area costs, including the pumping costs from overall pressure drop of heat exchangers. For a shell and tube heat exchanger, its detailed design variables comprise of pressure drop, heat transfer coefficient, fluid velocity, etc. The stage-wise superstructure (SWS) model (Yee et al., 1990) for HENS is modified in two steps: the first step is to produce conceptual HEN using mixed-integer non-linear programming (MINLP), and the second one is to do the detailed design for individual heat exchanger. Therefore, the major objective is to synthesize the optimal practical HEN with the minimum TAC, the results reveal that two-step designs can significantly decrease more TAC compared to published case studies.
The Supervisory and regulatory dilemma on equity-based crowdfunding in Taiwan
Authors:   , Chang Chin-wei
Published: September 2023

Equity-based crowdfunding is an important portal for raising fund in Taiwan because the traditional financing sources are unable to meet the capital needs of those who would be able to raise fund through Equity-based crowdfunding.

However, Information asymmetry has existed between investors and fundraisers in equity-based crowdfunding. Because fundraisers own and operate the business, they have all information, but investors do not. The GISA regulation can eliminate information asymmetry by imposing disclosure duties on fundraisers.

This thesis tries to highlight the necessity for The GISA regulation to reduce information asymmetry. By comparing the GISA with laws and regulations of the USA and Singapore, this thesis found that the GISA regulation should impose the Suitability Obligation on crowdfunding platforms in Taiwan. Furthermore, the GISA regulation shall be incorporated into the Securities and Exchange Act or enacted by the parliament to enhance the investors’ protection for equity-based crowdfunding.
Antioxidant activity of thunbergia laurifolia lindl. Ethanolic extract in keratinocytes
Authors:   , Jirabanjerdsiri Buakotchaphan
Published: September 2023

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can cause skin damage through the induction of oxidative stress in epidermis. Antioxidants help counteract with cellular oxidant species and maintain cell homeostasis. This study aims to examine the protective effect of Thunbergia laurifolia lindl. ethanolic extract on PM2.5-mediated oxidative stress in epidermal keratinocytes. High-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection was conducted for quantitative analysis of rosmarinic acid content in the extract. Cell viability was detected by the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide assay. Intracellular ROS was monitored using 2’,7’-Dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. Proteins related to p62-Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway were examined by western blot analysis. Expressions of Nrf2 and p62 were further determined by immunofluorescence. PM2.5 treatment at non-cytotoxic concentration could remarkably induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production within 6 h. The co-treatment of the extract and PM2.5 for 6 h dramatically inhibited excess ROS production induced by PM2.5. In addition, the extract enhanced cellular defense of keratinocytes, by increasing the levels of p62, Nrf2 and SOD1 proteins. The extract stabilizes Nrf2 and p62 expressions, while suppresses Keap1 expression. The T. laurifolia extract is promising natural antioxidants against oxidative stress induced by PM2.5 in keratinocytes.
Lipase inhibitors from dendrobium senile
Authors:   , Phyu Myat
Published: September 2023

Obesity is characterized as an abnormal lipid metabolism due the imbalance between the energy intake and output. Pancreatic lipase is secreted by the pancreas and plays an important role in the digestion and absorption of lipids in the small intestine. Inhibition of pancreatic lipase enzyme can reduce dietary fat absorption which will lead to loss of weight and finally result in hypocholesterolemia and hypoglycemia. From the whole plant of Dendrobium senile, a new phenanthrene derivative was isolated, together with seven known compounds, including 2,5,7-trihydroxy-4-methoxyphenanthrene (1), moscatin (2), 2,5-dihydroxy-4,9-dimethoxyphenanthrene (3), moscatilin (4), aloifol I (5), 4,4ʹ,8,8ʹ-tetramethoxy[1,1ʹ-biphenanthrene]-2,2ʹ,7,7ʹ-tetrol (6), 2,2ʹ,7,7ʹ-tetrahydroxy-4,4ʹ-dimethoxy-1,1ʹ-biphenanthrene (7) and bleformin G (8). Their structures were characterized by NMR, UV, IR and MS spectroscopic methods. All the isolated compounds were evaluated for pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity. Moscatin (2) and 2,5-dihydroxy-4,9-dimethoxyphenanthrene (3) showed recognizable pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 57.6 ± 3.3 µM and 58.6 ± 3.4 µM, respectively, when compared with the positive control orlistat (IC50 0.031 ± 0.004 µM).
Effect of pongol methyl ether on cancer stem cell phenotypes in human non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors:   , Silapech Arnon
Published: September 2023

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are an important therapeutic target. The therapeutic agents targeting CSCs should lead to improved clinical outcomes. This study demonstrated the CSC suppressing activity of pongol methyl ether (PME), a pure compound from Millettia erythrocalyx Gagnep. CSC-suppressing effects were evaluated by colony formation assay, anchorage independent growth assay, spheroid formation assay and detection of CSC markers. The related CSC cell signals were evaluated by Western blot, immunofluorescence and molecular docking analysis. Proteins affected by PME treatment were subjected to bioinformatic analysis. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed by the Search Tool for Interactions of Chemicals (STITCH). The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) mapper were used to confirm the underlying pathways. The non-toxic concentrations of PME (5–25 µM) significantly suppressed the ability of lung cancer cells to form colonies, grow in an anchorage-independent manner and generate tumor spheroids. PME at 25 µM significantly decreased the CSC markers (CD133 and ALDH1A1) and pluripotent transcription factors (Oct4 and Nanog). Akt, the key upstream signal of CSC control, was significantly decreased by the PME treatment. The molecular docking indicated that PME was bound to Akt-1 with a binding affinity of -9.2 kcal/mol greater than the Akt-1 inhibitor (reference compound; CQW). The STITCH network identified a total of 15 proteins interacted in PPI networks, and Akt-1 was identified as a central protein. The KEGG mapper indicated that the selected CSC markers were mostly involved in the ‘signalling pathways regulating pluripotency of stem cells’ pathway map and Akt, Oct4 and Nanog were the regulatory proteins in the dominant pathway. In addition, PME (10–25 µM) can suppress spheroid formation and reduce CSC-specific marker expression in patient-derived primary lung cancer cells. This study revealed a novel pharmacological effect and the underlying physiological mechanism of PME that can attenuate CSC phenotypes in human lung cancer cells and may be developed for lung cancer therapy.
Antifungal, physical, and mechanical properties of tissue conditioner incorporated with zinc oxide nanoparticles
Authors:   , Homsiang Woraporn
Published: September 2023

This study evaluated the antifungal, physical, and mechanical properties of tissue conditioner incorporated with different amounts of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnOnps) at different storage times (0, 7, and 14 days). Specimens of 0, 5, 10, 15 wt% ZnOnps, or 15 wt% nystatin incorporated into tissue conditioner were fabricated. The direct contact test (n=6) was performed to evaluate the antifungal effect against C. albicans suspension. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (n=6) were used to observe the amount and distribution of superficial zinc element. The penetration depth (n=6) and tensile bond strength (n=8) were evaluated following ISO 13139. The 15Zn group demonstrated a significantly reduced C. albicans cell number compared with the control group at all storage times (p<0.001). The Nys group had the greatest reduction in C. albicans cell number only at day 0. Pearson’s correlation coefficient between the amount of superficial zinc element and the number of C. albicans cells showed a significant negative linear correlation (r=-0.78, p<0.001). The penetration depths and tensile bond strengths of the 5Zn, 10Zn, 15Zn, and Nys were not significantly different compared with control at all storage times (p>0.05). In conclusion, the 15Zn provides antifungal effect up to 14 days without adverse effects on penetration depth and tensile bond strength.
Facebook and depression in COVID-19 pandemic: the role of time spent on information overload and depressive symptoms with trait rumination as a moderator
Authors:   , Taechajinda Vidchuda
Published: September 2023

The current COVID-19 pandemic has led to concerns for health and well-being, especially when the quarantine strategy such as social isolation has been implemented. Since social media has become an essential source of information, it might overwhelm its users by providing too much information which could yield many negative psychological outcomes, including depressive symptoms. The proposed research is designed to investigate the role of time spent on Facebook for searching and receiving information about COVID-19, as well as trait rumination on information overload and depressive symptoms. Non-clinical 140 active Facebook users aged between 18 to 34 who live in Bangkok are recruited. Participants were asked to complete a series of questionnaires measuring time spent on Facebook, perceived information overload, RRS-SF, and PHQ-9. Descriptive statistics, Mediation, and Moderated Mediation with Process in SPSS were used to analyze the relationships among variables. Statistical analyses revealed that higher levels of individuals passively spending time on Facebook for receiving and searching for COVID-19 information results in higher levels of depressive symptoms. Moreover, the relation between perceived information overload and depressive symptoms did yield a significant result, which indicated that the more individuals felt that they received too much information, the higher levels of depressive symptoms they have. However, the mediation analysis presented that perceived information overload did not mediate the relation between time spent on Facebook and depressive symptoms. Also, the trait rumination did not moderate either the effect of the perceived information overload on depressive symptoms or the indirect effect of the time spent on Facebook on depressive symptoms through the perceived information overload. For the implications and applications of this present study, it is expected that this research will provide a wider understanding of the negative influences of social media use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings from this research may also contribute to social policy in generating initial preventive programs or guidelines for the normal population.
Outpatient satisfaction with community health service center during the COVID-19 pandemic in Shanghai, People's Republic of China
Authors:   , Chen Enli
Published: September 2023

Patient satisfaction survey has been highly important, since satisfying the needs and expectations of patients had become a significant strategy for survival in the healthcare business. This study aims (1) to evaluate levels of patient satisfaction using the SERVQUAL in Dapuqiao Community Health Service Center during COVID-19 pandemic, (2) to assess the difference between perceptions and expectations for service dimensions, and (3) to identify the most crucial service items using the importance and performance analysis (IPA), in terms of their need for managerial action to improve outpatient satisfaction.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Dapuqiao Community Health Service Center in Shanghai, in December 2021. The subjects were obtained by stratified convenience sampling from 8 outpatient departments of the center. Outpatients aged ≥18 were considered to participated by the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Researchers randomly intercepted 424 in outpatient clinics of the health service center to fill out questionnaires face-to-face. The SERVQUAL was used to design the questionnaire for evaluate the patients' perceptions and expectations of 5 service dimensions of tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. The GAP analysis was used to reveal the gap between perceptions and expectations, and outpatients’ satisfaction level. In addition, the original IPA and the revised IPA were applied to identify the crucial service items in terms of their need for managerial action to improve outpatient satisfaction.

The results indicated that A total of 414 completed questionnaires, out of 424, were returned, resulting in a response rate of 97.6%. The mean score of outpatient’s perceptions and expectations were 4.58±0.47 and 4.56±0.50, respectively. According to the GAP analysis, 78.02% (323/414) subjects were satisfied, with a perceptions score ≥ expectations score. There was significant positive difference between perception and expectation in tangibility dimension and significant negative difference in empathy dimension.

In conclusion, the finding of this study indicated that the hospital manager may take steps toward improving the quality of services and increasing the outpatient satisfaction by provide new medical equipment and giving patient individualized services.
The health impact assessment of particulate matter (PM 2.5) in Thailand
Authors:   , Hermayurisca Friscilla
Published: September 2023

Particular Matter with diameter <2.5 microns or micrometers (a pollutant PM2.5) is highlighted as dangerous kind of pollutant in the worldwide. There were epidemiological studies reporting the harmful effects of PM2.5 in population due to the particle can lead various chronic diseases and premature deaths.

The aim of this study is to assess the changes in health  due to short- and long-term exposure and to provide the estimation attributed cases and proportion in the Thai population which could be avoid where the PM2.5 concentration  reduce to the cut-off values that respected

 I collected data of PM2.5 concentration from 70 air monitoring stations of Pollution Department Control Thailand to indicate all provinces. For missing data, the values were calculated using the single imputation technique. The Ordinary Kriging Techniques were applied to construct the interpolations of PM2.5 concentration data for each district. I collected national health data including total number morbidity and mortality incidences related with negative effects from PM2.5 exposure in all provinces from Ministry of Public Health, Thailand. Total numbers of population all ages for specific province have been collected, where people ages >30 years old as population at risk on this study. This study presents all data that collected in 2019. Air Q+ Software is a tool that developed by World Health Organization, and it used to calculate the changes and health effects of air pollutant PM2.5 in population. All data were input to Air Q+ tool and the calculation parameters are based on epidemiological analysis.

In 2019, Total population at risk or people ages >30 years old was 40,572,731 people or 60,957.6 per 100,000 population for 77 provinces in Thailand, where 60.98% from the total population for all ages. The range of daily PM2.5 concentration in 2019 for entwere provinces was between 1.28 and 229.52 ug/m3. The annual mean PM2.5 for national level was 24.14 μg/m3. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya had high PM2.5 mean at 32.79 μm3 in 2019, followed by Ang Thong and Kalasin. The results from Air Q+ software estimated attributed proportion and cases in variation of cut-off values. All estimations indicate the reduction proportion and case that can be achieved if PM2.5 concentration meets the cut-off value. If the daily average in Thailand meets the targeted standard at 37.5 μg/m3 it can reduce around 2 per 100,000 population from the burden all short-term mortality cases in 2019. And, if the annual average in Thailand meets the targeted standard at 15 μg/m3 it can reduce around 82 per 100,000 population from the burden all long-term mortality cases in 2019.

The result demonstrated the significant impacts of short- and long-term exposure of PM2.5 on Thai population. From this study, the estimations suggest the roadmap for policy maker and stakeholder to improve air pollution risk and management actions as the ways to protect population.
The effectiveness of Tibetan yoga to reduce climacteric symptoms and enhancing quality of life in perimenopausal women: a community-based randomized controlled trial
Authors:   , Archong Natsupa
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The climacteric symptoms has been the problems of most perimenopause women so far. This research examined the effect of using Tibetan Yoga in reducing climacteric symptoms and enhance quality of  life of the perimenopause women. Objectives:  To study the effect of Tibetan Yoga in reducing climacteric symptoms and increasing the quality of life in perimenopausal women.

Method: This research is an experimental research. The research participants were sixty-four Thai perimenopausal women who lived in Moo 9, Lahan community, Bangbuatong District of Nonthaburi. Thirty-two of them were randomly selected to join the experimental group, the rest were in the controlled group.  The research instruments contended the Climacteric symptom assessment form, Socio-demographic characteristics questionnaire, Estrogen hormone record form, and the WHO quality of life questionnaire in the Thai language. The Tibetan Yoga program was performed with the controlled group as an intervention. The data were collected from the participants at the based- line, at the end of the program on week 12th and 4 weeks after the program finished. (week 16th) The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation to describe socio-demographic characteristics of the participants. The inferential statistics such as t-test and repeated-measures ANOVA were used to test the research hypothesis. Result: There was a  significant difference in the climacteric symptoms score of the participants between the two groups in week 12th and week 16th (F= 531.4, P-value < 0.001). All parts of the participants ‘quality of life in both experimental and controlled group had the significant higher scores than at baseline (P-value < 0.001).There were significant differences in serum estradiol levels of the participants between the controlled group and experimental group during week 12th   and week 16th  (F= 37.55, P-value < 0.001) Conclusion: Tibetan Yoga can be used to reduce climacteric symptoms and increase quality of life of perimenopause women.
Factors associated to mental health and stress among frontline workers at Suvarnabhumi Airport during COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand : a cross-sectional study
Authors:   , Direkwutthikun Toonlaya
Published: September 2023

During COVID-19 pandemic,the frontline airport workers are the first group of people who have to screening all passengers from other countries to control and mitigate the imported case at the point of entry. The effects of COVID-19 are deeply down to individual health, especially the frontline airport workers who perform screening duties at the airport. The anxiousness and stress can occur from scarcity of equipment and afraid to be infected and can affects mental health and stress. This study is aimed to investigate the association between socio-demographic, job characteristics, and personal preventive measure factors to the mental health and stress among frontline airport workers at Suvarnabhumi airport during the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey-based cross-sectional study was conducted. The participants are healthy males and females aged 20-60 years old and working in Suvarnabhumi airport for 6 months at least. The participants took self-administered questionnaires containing 3 parts as general characteristics, mental health, and stress.  A total of 361 respondents were included in analysis, 42.1% was male and 57.9% was female. For the job description, 43.5% was Airport of Thailand staffs (AOT), 11.9% was Thai Customs Department, 14.7%% was Health Control and Quarantine Office, 25.2% was Immigration Police, 4.7% was others. To compare independent data with dependent data to find the association by Chi square test. The result shown that alcohol drinking(p <0.05), the continuous working(p<0.01), the supporting system(p<0.05), physical health awareness(p<0.001), contacted infected passengers(p<0.001), quarantine (p<0.01) influence to mental health. And the age(p<0.01), education(p<0.05), marital status (p 0.01),the changing workloads (p 0.01), the contact distance(p<0.05), the contact duration (p<0.05), continuous working (p<0.05),hygiene behaviors such as washing hand (p<0.05), take a shower when arrived home (p<0.05), physical health awareness(p<0.001), and contacted infected passengers(p<0.05) influence to stress.
Prevalence and associated factors of food insecurity during COVID-19 pandemic in Bangkok, Thailand : a cross-sectional study
Authors:   , Mekkhum Wimonmanee
Published: September 2023

The prevalence of food insecurity (FI) in Thailand has fluctuated throughout time. The COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on Thailand's food system and the factors that contribute to food insecurity differ greatly across developed and developing countries. Consequently, this study may contribute as a step in achieving the SDGs by 2030. The aim was to estimate the prevalence and associated factors of food insecurity during COVID-19 pandemic among Bangkokian. A cross-sectional study was conducted over 440 Bangkokians and data were collected through self-administrated. The questionnaire included the general characteristics, associated factors and the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) in the total of eight questions. Data were analyzed using univariate, bivariate (chi-square), and multivariate (logistic regression). The majority of the participants were females, aged between 46-55 years old, single, living with family, has no child, graduated with bachelor’s degree, employed, earning more than 20,000 Baht per month, and not the head of the family. The study revealed that as much as 39.4% of all participants experienced food insecurity due to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic (mild 25.5%, moderate 8%, and severe 5.9%). Food insecurity was significantly associated with age, living with a disabled person, house ownership status and used additional supports. Those aged 36-45 and 46-55 are 0.29 and 0.14 times less likely to experience food insecurity than those younger in age. However, food insecurity increased 3.4 times when households comprised a disabled person (OR=3.369; P=0.003), increased 2.7 times as a house renter (OR=2.738, P=0.005), increased 2 times when used additional food aids support (OR=2.055, P=0.001). The results indicated that almost half of the participants had been experiencing food insecurity, meaning that the pandemic threatens food security. Therefore, additional research and the relevant stakeholders should focus on food assistance intervention and policy to protect young adults and disabled households from food insecurity.