bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
مفهوم المستقيم المماس لدى طلبة المستوى الأول في قسم الرياضيات بكليات التربية جامعة عدن
Authors: السقاف صوفيا
Published: April 2023

هدف هذا البحث إلى التعرف على مستوى معرفة طلبة المستوى الأول بكليات التربية جامعة عدن لمفهوم المستقيم المماس، وصورة المفهوم التي يمتلكها هؤلاء الطلبة لهذا المفهوم.

     وتكونت عينة البحث من طلبة المستوى الأول وعددهم (11) طالبا وطالبة، وتم استخدام المنهج الوصفي التحليلي، اعتمدت الباحثة لقياس المعرفة الخاصة بمفهوم المماس على استبانة صممت لهذا الغرض من قبل Biza, et, al., 2008)).

     وأظهر البحث وجود ضعف في مستوى معرفة طلبة السنة الأولى من قسم الرياضيات لمفهوم المستقيم المماس، كما يمتلك طلبة السنة الأولى من قسم الرياضيات صورة مشوشة وغير مكتملة لمفهوم المستقيم المماس.

     ومن أهم توصيات البحث التركيز على تقديم التعريف الشامل للمستقيم المماس في التعليم الثانوي والجامعي وتجنب التعريفات المختصرة لهذا المفهوم، رأب الفجوة المعرفية المتعلقة بتعلم مفهوم المماس لدى طلبة المستوى الأول لتغطية المفهوم من خلال أنشطة وفعاليات تدريسية إضافية، وإدخال تعديلات على المحتوى الذي يتعلق بالمماس في كتب الثانوية العامة عند عملية تطوير المناهج بحيث يشمل التعديل التقديم الواضح والعميق لهذا المفهوم.
قاعدة الضرورة تقدر بقدرها والاستثمار التنزيلي المعاصر
Authors: مراد فضل
Published: April 2023

القواعد الفقهية الكلية المجمع عليها يجب على الناظر في الفقه ونوازله أن يضبطها من جهة المعرفة بها ومن جهة معرفة مستنداتها وقوتها وكيف تعامل معها الفقهاء وكيف يستثمرها في المستجدات المعاصرة.

     ومن أهم هذه القواعد التي شاع استعمالها في الفتاوى المعاصرة قاعدة الضرورة تقدر بقدرها. والملاحظ أن استعمالها التنزيلي في وقائع العصر قد يكون استدلالا جمليا كليا غير منضبط، لهذا حاول هذا البحث معالجة المسألة ببيان هذه القاعدة وأهميتها ومستندها وأنها من القواعد التي تعضدها أصول الشرع وأدلته والضابط لإلحاق الحاجات منزلة الضرورات وأن هناك توسعا كبيرا في عصرنا في هذه الجزئية مع أن الفقه الإسلامي لا يدل على هذا التوسع، ثم تناول البحث قوانين ضابطة لاستعمال قاعدة الضرورة تقدر بقدرها، ومن ثم بيان الاستثمار التنزيلي المعاصر في مختلف الأبواب والقضايا الفقهية المستجدة. وختم البحث ببيان أن القاعدة ضابطة لقاعدة الضرورات تبيح المحظورات، وأنها قاعدة الحاجات لا تلحق بها إلا بما تعلق بالضرورات فقط، وأن هناك قوانين حاكمة لاستعمال قاعدة الضرورة ذكرنا منها عشرة.
The Skeletal Characteristics of Limb of Two endemic Lizard Species )Acantocercus adramitanus and Chamaeleo calyptratus( in Yemen
Authors: Obady Yaser
Published: April 2023

Lizards have the broadest geographical distribution encompassing a wide range of locomotor habitats. This is reflected in a large morphological diversity of the general body form and of the locomotory apparatus among these animals. So, the present study aimed to clarify the osteological characteristics of the limb skeleton of two endemic species sharing the same environment but differ in microhabitat and mode of their locomotion. Under a dissecting microscope, the fore and hindlimbs of each animal were excised by using iris scissors after narcotizing by doses of anesthetic. The specimens were processed for staining with Alcian blue and alizarin stains to stain the skeletal limbs. In the current study, intra- and interspecific variations were observed in 2 species studied in measurements of limb elements. In Chamaeleo calyptratus both the fore- and hind limbs were relatively equal in length. While, the FOL, MAL, TOFL2, TOFL3, TOFL4 and TOFL5 were significantly shorter than the hindlimb in Acantocercus adramitanus (t= -5.60, -8.59, -3.84, -6.69, -6.12 and -8.35 respectively P= 0.000). A significant pronounced variation in the length of the long bone in lizard studied. Meanwhile, high significant variations were noticeable for metacarpus and metatarsus measurements in A. adramitanus (F4,45= 88.66, P< 0.0001 and F4,45= 32.07, P <0.0001 respectively). Slightly significant variations were observed in metacarpus and metatarsus measurements of C. calyptratus (F4,45= 3.34, P<0.02 and F4,45= 3.42, P<0.02 respectively). Except the centrale, the width of elements composing the wrist and ankle is larger than length in A. adramitanus. High significant variations were noticeable in the autopodium of C. calyptratus. The radiale and centrale had larger length than width. However, C. calyptratus have relatively short ulnare, distal carpus 5 and proximal tarsus. These variations in limb elements of A. adramitanus and C. calyptratus may be due to the difference in microhabitat.
Teaching Angle as Turn Using a Code.org Lesson
Authors: Boote Stacy K. , Galanti Terrie M.
Published: April 2023

Elementary school students use physical manipulatives (e.g., pattern blocks) to make sense of the geometry and measurement ideas in a Code.org block-based programming lesson.
Putting Number in the Hands of Children
Authors: Sinclair Nathalie , Jackiw Nicholas
Published: April 2023

Ear to the Ground features voices from several corners of the mathematics education world.
The Phenomenon of Reduplication as a Method of Word Formation in Modern French, Spanish, English and Russian Languages
Authors: Minova Mariya Vladimirovna , Kopylova Elena Viktorovna , Kuznetsova Yuliya Andreevna , Nikolaeva Elena Anatol'evna , Zhelamskaya Vera Anatol'evna
Published: April 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the specifics of the implementation of such a method of word formation as reduplication. The analysis of the linguistic material indicates a fairly wide distribution of this phenomenon in modern French, Spanish, English and Russian. The authors study the features of the implementation of various types of reduplication in the studied languages, and also consider in detail the features of their functioning. The material for the study is examples of reduplicative units from the press and from open sources on the Internet. In the course of the study, methods such as the analysis of theoretical literature, the method of comparative analysis, the method of continuous sampling, as well as observation and generalization, were used. The novelty of the study lies in identifying the dynamics of the functional development of reduplications in the French, Spanish, English and Russian vocabulary in the modern period. The study showed that, although the principles of formation of different types of reduplicative units are comparable in modern French, Spanish, English and Russian, however, there are pronounced differences in the preference for the areas of use of types of reduplication in different languages under study. Of particular interest is the fact that French is characterized by the widespread use of reduplication in the formation of nicknames of famous people from the world of politics and show business, whereas in Spanish, English and Russian it is a rather rare phenomenon.
Application of graph auto-encoders based on regularization in recommendation algorithms
Authors: Xie Chengxin , Wen Xiumei , Pang Hui , Zhang Bo
Published: April 2023

Social networking has become a hot topic, in which recommendation algorithms are the most important. Recently, the combination of deep learning and recommendation algorithms has attracted considerable attention. The integration of autoencoders and graph convolutional neural networks, while providing an effective solution to the shortcomings of traditional algorithms, fails to take into account user preferences and risks over-smoothing as the number of encoder layers increases. Therefore, we introduce L1 and L2 regularization techniques and fuse them linearly to address user preferences and over-smoothing. In addition, the presence of a large amount of noisy data in the graph data has an impact on feature extraction. To our best knowledge, most existing models do not account for noise and address the problem of noisy data in graph data. Thus, we introduce the idea of denoising autoencoders into graph autoencoders, which can effectively address the noise problem. We demonstrate the capability of the proposed model on four widely used datasets and experimentally demonstrate that our model is more competitive by improving up to 1.3, 1.4, and 1.2, respectively, on the edge prediction task.
Effect of Musical Therapy on Salivary Cortisol Levels and Oral Health Related Quality of Life in Patients with Fixed Prosthesis- A Research Protocol of Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Pathak Ankita , Dhamande Mithilesh , Sathe Seema , Borle Anjali , Godbole Surekha
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Tooth loss exerts a significant psychological impact on adult patients. Also, it affects the psychological aspect of patient’s behaviour, which can have a dynamic effect on an individual’s mind. Many patients feel anxious while facing dental clinics or while getting treated. These stressful situations can cause alterations in neuro hormonal mechanism and can induce cardiovascular events. If the patient’s mind is distracted to listen to music during treatment processes, his or her anxiety levels can be lowered, resulting in maximum compliance. Need of the study: The need of the research is to determine impact of musical therapy on salivary cortisole level. As different the therapy such as musical therapy, has achieved significant among alternative therapies as it is not invasive and very helpful to decrease the unfavorable effect of strength on patients mind. Aim: To determine the effect of musical therapy on salivary cortisol levels and Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) in patients under prosthetic rehabilitation with fixed prosthesis. Materials and Methods: This randomised controlled trial will be conducted at Sharad Pawar Dental College and Hospital, Sawangi(M), Wardha on 30 patients undergoing fixed prosthetic rehabilitation. Salivary cortisol levels will be checked in both experimental group and control group, undergoing prosthetic rehabilitation with fixed partial denture. To analyse OHRQoL before and after treatment in both groups. Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) will be used, which includes a questionnaire. Following the assessment, correlation of OHRQoL of both groups and their salivary cortisol levels before and after treatment will be done.
Diabetes and Fungal InfectionA Didactic Relationship
Authors: Singhal Ishita , Arora Manpreet , Dave Aparna , Saluja Pulin
Published: April 2023

Oral fungal infections are frequently encountered in clinical practice, and with the advent of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID19) pandemic, their incidence has quite increased. Increased emergence of oral candidal and non candidal infections is evident in patients with uncontrolled diabetes, patients on steroids or antibiotic therapies, and immunocompromised and immunosuppressed individuals. Also, habits of smoking and alcohol consumption, intake of carbohydrate-rich food, and salivary dysfunction have many times influenced the colonisation of fungal infections in the oral cavity. Aspergillosis once considered exotic is now more prevalent than before and presents itself in two forms: non invasive or invasive form, which has led to the rapid dissemination of the disease. Hence, a timely diagnosis of such lesions is important to prevent their invasion into other parts of the body. This article discusses a rare case report of Aspergillosis occurring in the oral cavity at the site of the extraction socket in a 50-year-old woman, who is a known diabetic without any history of COVID-19 infection. Aspergillosis unlike other fungal infections of the oral cavity has been reported more in immunocompetent individuals. Here, we report a unique case limited to the oral cavity in an immunocompromised patient.
Applications of Dermatoglyphics in Dentistry- A Bibliographic Review
Authors: Mohapatra Subhashree , Rahul Mohandas Rahul Mohandas
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Dermatoglyphics is the study of the characteristic ridged skin patterns on the fingertips, palms, toes, and soles of all primates, including humans. Due to this unique and unalterable nature, dermatoglyphics can be used as an excellent tool for population studies, personal identification, and morphological and genetic research. In recent years, dermatoglyphics has drawn a lot of attention in the field of dentistry, as a potential adjunct diagnostic tool in the identification of various orofacial and dental anomalies. This bibliometric analysis aimed to identify and analyse all the articles published on applications of dermatoglyphics in dentistry. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search of bibliographic databases was performed by two independent reviewers, from October 2022 to December 2022, using medical sub-heading terms like “Dermatoglyphics”, “Dental”, and “Oral” in several combinations. All types of published studies were included in this bibliographic analysis. The articles were identified, tabulated and analysed to extract the various bibliometric details. Results: A total of 536 citations were achieved cumulatively by 57 publications included in this review. The article that received the maximum number of citations (citation=46) was by Reddy BRM et al., published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research in year 2013. Maximum publications (n=46) originated from India. Most of the published articles were focused on application of dermatoglyphics for the diagnosis of dental caries (n=21) followed by malocclusion (n=14). Conclusion: The present bibliometric analysis identifies and analyses the most-cited articles on applications of dermatoglyphics in dentistry. The findings of this review not only provide insight into the scientific evolution in the field but also reveal trends in further research and clinical practice.
Air Versus Distilled Water Cuff Inflation using Cuffill (Digital Cuff) in Adult Patients Undergoing General Anaesthesia
Authors: Giriyapur Pooja Arunkumar , Madhusudhana Ravi
Published: April 2023

Introduction: An essential part of anaesthesia is endotracheal intubation. The Endotracheal Tube (ETT) cuff pressure must not be higher than the predicted 22-30 mmHg tracheal perfusion pressure. If the ETT’s cuff is inflated with air while under nitrous oxide+oxygen anaesthesia, the cuff pressure may increase dangerously and result in ischaemia of the tracheal mucosa. Hence, distilled water as an alternative agent to air for inflation of cuffs of ETTs was used in the present study. Aim: To determine whether inflating the ETT cuff with distilled water, instead of air changes the pressure over time. To evaluate changes in cuff pressure over time, and to assess the knowledge about endotracheal cuff pressure monitoring with cuffill. Materials and Methods: The randomised clinical study was conducted from February 2022 to April 2022. The study included 50 patients undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthesia who were randomly divided into two groups. In Group-A, distilled water was used and in Group-B, air was used to inflate the cuffs of ETTs. General anaesthesia was given with nitrous oxide, oxygen and relaxant technique. The intra-cuff pressures of ETT cuffs were recorded by AG cuffill. Increase of pressures with time were recorded and analysed. Results: Mean ET cuff pressure by cuffill with air (Group-B) was 26±2.43 mmH2 O after 0 minutes of intubation. After 15 minutes of intubation mean ET cuff pressure was 31.80±3.39 mmH2 O. Mean ET cuff pressure by cuffill with distilled water (Group-A) was 25.56±2.02 mmHg after 0 minutes of intubation. After 15 minutes of intubation, mean ET cuff pressure was 28.5±2.26 cmH2 O. There was a pressure difference observed between the groups with a mean difference of 3.217, t-value of 4.743 and a p-value of 0.001. Conclusion: For the purpose of inflating the cuffs of ETTs when the patient is under general anaesthesia with the use of nitrous oxide, oxygen, and relaxant method, distilled water may be considered a more desirable agent than air.
The Benefits and Concerns of Communication Technologies in Education
Authors: Faustino Anagrolia , Kaur Inderpreet
Published: April 2023

The review understands learning using communication technologies as the solutions for education in 21st century. The teachers are trying to adapt the uses of technologies in learning and teaching. Students learn from their teachers with the use of technologies. The use of equipment like computers, computers Programmers, speakers, cameras, and equipment’s for disable students in the classroom facilitate learning in the class creating an inclusive environment in the classroom. The focus of the present study is to analyze various papers on Learning and communication technologies in line with effectiveness in the process of teaching and learning from 2013 up to 2021 July. The study selected 30 articles using Google scholar in getting the data from the different journals. The results indicated the interest’s and attitude in technologies in learning process as well as the system has advantages for both students, teacher and solve the student’s diversity needs. Due to some challenges faced, by the use of communication technologies the study suggested that the government should support the system especially in rural area. Training is required for teachers to increase the motivation level for better learning outcomes. Special consideration should be made for students with disabilities. The review suggested the next review to be done in relation to the effectiveness of technologies in assessment and examination process for the students with disability.
Analysis of Brand Strategy under the Focus of Urban Marketing – Taking the Development of Ceramics in Dehua County, Fujian Province as an Example
Authors: Chen An-Ya , Huang Yuxin , You Mingde , Wang Jiaxin , Pan Fenxiang
Published: April 2023

With the rapid development of the global economy, the competition between cities is becoming increasingly fierce. Urban marketing plays aa vital role in enhancing the competitiveness and popularity of cities, and brand building is the material foundation, means, path and result of urban marketing. As a typical export-oriented city with ceramic industry as the pillar, Dehua County has no outstanding geographical and economic location advantages. In recent years, the wanton spread of the new crown epidemic overseas has led to the economic downturn of the overseas ceramic industry, the ceramic domestic sector is chaotic, the competition pressure in the industry is excellent, and Dehua Ceramics is facing transformation needs. Based on the research perspective of urban marketing, this paper summarizes the case experience of other city brands through the analysis of the current situation of Dehua, compares and summarizes the case experience of other city brands, uses multi-perspective research methods, deeply analyzes the problems existing in the development of Dehua city brand, uses centralized marketing strategy, that is, focuses on marketing and series of marketing awareness, mechanism and means, excavates various resources in the city and systematically plans and integrates, how to establish the image of Dehua in the case of huge changes in the internal and external environment, and carry out Dehua city marketing based on the brand. It has important practical significance.
Length-Weight Relationship and Condition Factor of Chrysichthys longidorsalis (Risch & Thys Van Den Audenaerde, 1981) Landed at the Sanaga River Basin, Cameroon
Authors: Achu Shuri Helen , Tiogue Claudine Tekounegning , Awah-Ndukum Julius
Published: April 2023

Given the lack of adequate information on morphometric characteristics of wild fish in Cameroon, the present research was carried out from November 2019 to October 2020 to analyse length - weight relationship and Fulton’s condition factor of Chrysichthys longidorsalis (Risch & Thys van den Audenaerde, 1981) to provide baseline information for its fishery management and aquaculture development. A total of 451 sampled C. longidorsalis captured from Sanaga River basin of the Centre Region in Cameroon were identified and lengths and weights measured. Mean standard length, total length and total weight of samples were 18.13 ± 7.32 cm, 23.91 ± 9.37 cm and 305.15 ± 315.66 g respectively. The males were longer and heavier than females (p<0.05). High correlation coefficient (>0.9) and coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.9516) revealed strong positive relationship (>95%) between fish standard length and total weight. The growth coefficient (b) values, were less than 3 (2.7234) suggesting a negative allometric growth pattern. Though the condition factor was higher (p<0.05) in males and during the dry season than in females and during the rainy season, the overall value was 5.85 ± 11.44, indicating that the fish had good adaptation to conditions of the Sanaga River basin. This study serves as useful reference for sustainable management and conservation of fish resources in Cameroonian waters.
Potentials of Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir: Aqueous Stem Bark Extract to Prevent Development of cardiomyopathy in Rats
Authors: Haruna I. Y. , Ijeomah A. U. , Ajiboso S. O. , Nzute O. P. , Zaruwa M. Z.
Published: April 2023

Cardiomyopathy is one of the significant complications of diabetes mellitus.  Hyperglycemia plays a central role in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy. The aqueous stem bark extract of Pterocarpus erinaceus was investigated for its phytochemical constituents, its effects on blood glucose level, lipid profile, antioxidants markers, and cardiac markers for heart tissue damage in alloxan induced diabetic wistar albino rats. Thirty five (35) rats were randomly divided into six groups. The animals in groups 2-6 were induced with a single dose of 150 mg/kg body weight of alloxan intraperitoneally. They were confirmed hyperglycemic after 72 hours of induction. Group 3 rats were treated with vitamin C as standard drug while group 4-6 were treated with P. erinaceus extract (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body w. t) for 14 days. The results shows that P. erinaceus aqueous stem bark extract contains flavonoids as the most abundant constituent with concentration of (452.67±7.37 mg/100g). The aqueous stem bark extract given at dose of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg decrease blood glucose concentration of rats by 44.26%, 47.16% and 74.41% respectively at 14th day of treatment. The rats treated with the plant extract shows significant decrease (p < 0.05) in triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels as well as significant increase (p<0.05) in the levels of total protein (TP) and  high-density lipoprotein (HDL) compared to the diabetic untreated rats. Antioxidant markers such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), reduced glutathione (GSH) and glutathione transferase (GST) significantly increased (p<0.05) in rats treated with the extract, while malondialdehyde (MDA) level was significantly reduced (p<0.05) compared to the diabetic untreated rats. Serum cardiac markers for heart tissue damage such as cardiac Troponin I (cTnI), aspartate transferase (AST) and creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB) significantly increased (p<0.05) in untreated diabetic rats compared to the diabetic rats treated with the extracts at all doses. Aqueous stem bark extract exhibited antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic activities and mitigated damage to the heart from the alloxan-induced myocardial toxicity associated with type-1 diabetes.
Application of Uricase Isolated from Bacillus subtilis SP6 in Uric Acid Assay Diagnostic Kit
Authors: Helmy Mohamed S. , Masoud Hassan M. M. , Darwish Doaa A. , Abdel-Monsef Mohamed M. , Esa Sayed S. , Ibrahim Mahmoud A.
Published: April 2023

Uricase enzyme is a major component of the diagnostic kit for the estimation of uric acid for diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of gout and joint inflammations. Uric Acid/Uricase assay kit is a simple assay for measuring uric acid concentrations in biological samples such as serum, plasma, and urine without any need for pretreatment. The level of uricase enzyme activity was detected in the crude extract of some animal liver tissues, plant leaves and a microbial source (Bacillus subtilis SP6 bacteria) and expressed as specific activity (unit/mg protein). It was found difficult to produce high yield of uricase in short time from animal or plant tissues and stability of uricase from both sources is still unclear; therefore, it was isolated from Bacillus subtilis SP6. The extraction procedure of uricase from Bacillus subtilis SP6 involved, isolation and extraction of bacterial cells, determining the uricase activity in both intracellular and extracellular fractions, pooling for both fractions and ammonium sulfate precipitation which seemed to be convenient since 74.7 % of uricase activity was recovered. The isolated uricase was applied in the preparation of uric acid diagnostic kit that found sensitive and comparable with commercially available ones.
Assessment of the Effect of Neem Extract (Azadirachta indica) on Aluminium Phosphide Induced Toxicity in Adult Wistar Rat
Authors: Eric E. U. , Famous A. J. , Avor G. M. , Wilfred C. O.
Published: April 2023

Aluminum phosphide (ALP), also known as rice tablet, is a well-known fumigant used in grain storage facilities. It is a greenish-gray tablet with a rotten fish or garlic odour. Rice tablets contain ALP, urea, and ammonium carbamate, which produce phosphine gas (PH3) when exposed to water, steam, and gastric acid. This research was carried out to investigate the effect of neem extract on aluminum phosphide-induced toxicity in the liver of albino Wistar rats and also to evaluate the effect of neem leaf extract on hematological parameters in aluminum phosphide-induced toxicity in adult wistar rat .Thirty (30) adult male Wistar rats were grouped into five (5) groups (A-E). Group A served as the control group, Group B received aluminum phosphide only, Group C received aluminum phosphide and 200 mg neem extract and Group D received aluminum phosphide and 400mg neem extract Group E neem extract only. Hematoxylin and Eosin staining technique was used to study the histological morphology of the liver. Hematological investigations were also carried out. From the result obtained, white blood cells neutrophils, hemoglobin and red blood cells were reduced while platelet and lymphocyte were increased. Result shows that the group which took a higher dose of neem extract had less damage to the liver cell compared to those that took a lesser dose and aluminium phosphide alone respectively. Hence, it can be inferred that neem extract does not completely ameliorate hepatotoxicity of aluminium phosphide.
Phytochemical, Antioxidant, Cytotoxicity and Antimicrobial Investigations of Tephrosia platycarpa GUILL. & PERR.
Authors: Ogundairo Sunday Kunle , Olaoluwa Olaoluwa O. , Aiyelaagbe Olapeju O.
Published: April 2023

Tephrosia genus belongs to the family Fabaceae and plants in this genus have been reported to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and pesticidal properties, however; there is paucity of information on the chemical and biological activities of Tephrosia platycarpa. Thus, this study was aimed at investigating the phytochemical and biological properties of Tephrosia platycarpa. The plant was collected at Ile’gbon, Ibadan, Nigeria and authenticated at Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FHI-112653), air-dried and pulverized. Extracted with n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol successively. The extracts were screened for phytochemicals, antioxidant, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activities. Phytochemical screening of the crude extracts showed that they are rich in secondary metabolites. The antioxidant assay showed that extracts of the stems and leaves have strong activities against free radicals. Cytotoxicity assay revealed that the extracts of the stem are moderately toxic while roots extracts are highly toxic. The extracts displayed broad spectrum antimicrobial activity against the organisms tested.
Neuroprotective Effect of Stachytarpheta angustifolia Methanol Extract Against Aluminium Chloride (AlCl3) Induced Alzheimer’s Disease in Albino Rats
Authors: Ashikaa Benedict A. , Zaruwa Moses Z. , Muhammad Bawa Y. , Bamidele Titilayo O. , Daikwo Moses A.
Published: April 2023

Aim: This study was aim to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of Stachytarpheta angustifolia methanol extract on aluminium chloride induced Alzheimer’s disease in Albino rats.

Study Design: This is an experimental study.

Location and Duration of the Study: The research was conducted at the Central Research Laboratory of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nigeria from 7th October, 2022 to 12th January, 2023.

Methodology: The whole plant was extracted using soxhlet extraction method with methanol as solvent. Thirty Albino rats of both sexes were divided into six groups with five rats in each. Aluminum chloride (AlCl3) was used to induced Alzheimer and treated with vitamin E and various doses of the plant extract. Behavioural test was carried out using T-maze to assess learning and memory. Antioxidant parameters (SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH, MDA and NO), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were determined using ELISA kits. Histopathological examination was carried out using hematoxylin and eosin.

Results: The results showed a significant (p = .05) decrease in the correct percentage number of alternations and a significant (p = .001) increase in latency time spent in the maze in the aluminum chloride (AlCl3) induced and untreated group compared to the control. There were significant (p = .05) decreased in SOD, CAT activities and GSH (p = .001) level. While, there were significant increase in MDA (p = .001), NO (p = .01), COX-2 (p = .05) and AChE (p = .05) compared to the control. Treatment with the plant extract significantly (p = .001) increased the SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH compared to the aluminum chloride (AlCl3) group. While, MDA, NO, COX-2 and AChE decreases significantly (p = .001) compared to the aluminum chloride (AlCl3) group. Histopathological examination of hippocampus sections tallied with the biochemical parameters.

Conclusion: These results may justify the ethnomedicinal use of Stachytarpheta angustifolia, especially in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Evaluation of Efficacy of Ultrasound Therapy as an Adjuvant in Management of Myofascial Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Valluri Harini , Manne Rakesh Kumar , Kannan N. , Sarath P. Venkata , Sridevi B. Swapna , Vemareddy Sravya
Published: April 2023

Aims: To determine ultrasound therapy as an effective adjuvant for the management of myofascial pain involving masticatory muscles.

Study Design: Randomized clinical trial study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of oral medicine and radiology, Narayana dental college and hospital between March 2021 to November 2022.

Methodology: We included 30 patients (20 females and 10 males; age group >18 years) clinically diagnosed with Myofascial pain who were randomly assigned into two groups each comprising of 15 patients. Group A patients received ultrasound therapy along with tizanidine 2mg twice a day for 14 days while group B patients received tizanidine alone. All the patients were evaluated for maximum inter-incisal distance, tenderness of muscles of mastication on palpation, pain while chewing, and pain during mandibular movements at baseline, 7th and 14th day.

Results: A significant pain reduction and improvement in mouth opening was found in both the groups. However, patients who received both tizanidine and ultrasound therapy had greater relief compared to other group from 7th day to 14th day and the results were statistically significant.

Conclusion: No side effects were observed in Group A during or after ultrasound therapy. As it is a non-invasive therapeutic modality and offers good patient compliance, ultrasound therapy can be used as an effective therapeutic adjuvant for the management of myofascial pain.
Analysis of Smoking Behavior of Students at SMA Negeri 1 Montasik Aceh Besar in 2022
Authors: Fitria Ully , Saputra Irwan , Usman Said , Marthoenis  , Ismail
Published: April 2023

Smoking in this school is something worth paying attention to, because some students are active smokers, are still dabbling and just joining their friends. Of the 205 students in Montasik High School, 80% of the students are active smokers. The purpose of this study Smoking Behavior of Students at SMA Negeri 1 Montasik Aceh Besar in 2022. This research is a type of analytical survey research using a quantitative method approach. The population in this study was students who, smoking behavior, sample 116 students. Data processed using univariate, bivariate and multrivariate analysis. The results of the study showed that there was a relationship between knowledge (P value = 0.000), attitude (P value = 0.000), affordability to cigarettes (P value = 0.000), exposure to cigarette advertisements (P value 0.002) and peers (P value 0.000) with Smoking Behavior of Students at SMA Negeri 1 Montasik, while age, family influence and policies on cigarettes did not affect Student Smoking Behavior. The most dominant variables affecting smoking behavior are, family member influence (0.004, OR: 13.898) and peer influence (0.000, OR: 277.463). It is hoped that there will be a strict regulation on students, teachers and employees who smoke in schools and the introduction of non-smoking areas in schools. For parents, they should be more careful in setting an example of behavior in the family environment and monitoring the behavior of parents is expected to be a provision in getting along in the community.
HUBUNGAN MINAT BELAJAR TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR KOGNITIF MATA PELAJARAN BAHASA MANDARIN KELAS 3 SD KRISTEN KALAM KUDUS TIMIKA
Authors: Toisuta Angel Margareth , Purba Romirio Torang
Published: April 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui minat belajar murid kelas 3 SD Kristen Kalam Kudus Timika Papua terhadap hasil belajar kognitif mata pelajaran Bahasa Mandarin. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian korelasi. Instrumen penelitian ini meng­gunakan kuesioner yang terdiri dari 24 butir pertanyaan dan soal tes pilihan ganda yang terdiri dari 17 butir pertanyaan. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan untuk menguji hipotesis adalah korelasi product moment. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara minat belajar dengan hasil belajar kognitif mata pelajaran bahasa Mandarin bagi kelas 3 SD Kristen Kalam Kudus Timika, rhitung > rtabel = 0,405 > 0,187 dengan nilai sig. (2-tailed) 0,000.
1H NMR of albumin in human blood plasma: drug binding and redox reactions at Cys34
Authors: Christodoulou John , Sadler Peter J. , Tucker Alan
Published: July 2002

1H NMR methods are described which allow direct studies of the Cys34 binding site of albumin in intact human blood plasma in vitro. Antiarthritic gold drugs and the alcohol‐aversive drug disulfiram induce a structural transition detectable via Hϵ1 and Hδ2 resonances of His3 of albumin, and reactions of cystine, glutathione and captopril in plasma have also been investigated. Contrary to most assumptions, little of the albumin in normal plasma appears to be blocked at Cys34 as a cystine disulfide.
Serum amyloid A‐derived peptides, present in human rheumatic synovial fluids, induce the secretion of interferon‐γ by human CD4+ T‐lymphocytes
Authors: Yavin Eran J. , Preciado-Patt Liana , Rosen Oren , Yaron Michael , Suessmuth Roderich D. , Levartowsky David , Jung Gunther , Lider Ofer , Fridkin Mati
Published: July 2002

Serum amyloid A (SAA) is a major acute‐phase protein whose biochemical functions remain largely obscure. Human rheumatic synovial fluids were screened by high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry for SAA‐derived peptides, specifically the sequence AGLPEKY (SAA98–104) which was previously shown to modulate various leukocyte functions. Two such fluids were found to contain a truncated version of SAA98–104. Synthetic SAA98–104 and several of its analogs were shown capable of binding isolated human CD4
+ T‐lymphocytes and stimulating them to produce interferon‐γ. Given the high acute‐phase serum level of SAA and its massive proteolysis by inflammatory related enzymes, SAA‐derived peptides may be involved in host defense mechanisms.
Automated Production Support for the Bioprocess Industry
Authors: Lennox Barry , Kipling Kathryn , Glassey Jarka , Montague Gary , Willis Mark , Hiden Hugo
Published: July 2002

This paper describes the application of Artificial Intelligence and Multivariate Statistical Techniques to two industrial fermentation systems. In the first example, an Expert System is shown to provide tighter control of an important process parameter. This is shown to lead to improved consistency of operation. In the second application, Principal Component Analysis is applied to a final stage fermentation production facility. The results presented indicate that the algorithm can provide concise indicators of process faults that can be presented to the operators to assist them in taking suitable corrective actions.
Development of a Bioartificial Nerve Graft. I. Design Based on a Reaction–Diffusion Model
Authors: Rutkowski Gregory E. , Heath Carole A.
Published: July 2002

A simple reaction–diffusion model has been developed to describe the mass transport of nutrients and nerve growth factor within a bioartificial nerve graft (BNG). The BNG consists of a porous polymer conduit that is preseeded with Schwann cells in its lumen. The Schwann cells produce growth factors to stimulate nerve regeneration within the lumen of the conduit. The model can predict the wall thickness, porosity, and Schwann cell seeding density needed to maximize the axon extension rate while ensuring that sufficient nutrients, especially oxygen, are made available to the neurons until the formation of the neovasculature. The model predicts a sixteen‐fold increase in the levels of nerve growth factor by dropping the porosity from 95 to 55% but only at the expense of reducing the oxygen concentration. At higher porosities, increasing the wall thickness and increasing the Schwann cell seeding density both have the same effect of increasing the concentration of nerve growth factor within the lumen of the conduit. This model provides a simple tool for evaluating various conduit designs before continuing with experimental studies in vivo.
Model System for Heat‐Induced Translocation of Cytoplasmic β‐Galactosidase across Phospholipid Bilayer Membrane
Authors: Umakoshi Hiroshi , Yoshimoto Makoto , Shimanouchi Toshinori , Kuboi Ryoichi , Komasawa Isao
Published: July 2002

The possibility of the translocation of the enzyme across the phospholipid bilayer membrane was investigated by using the liposomes prepared by 1‐palmitoyl‐2‐oleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (POPC) in which β‐galactosidase (β‐gal) was entrapped. Exposing the POPC liposomes entrapping β‐gal inside to heat treatment (40–50 °C, 1–60 min) was found to induce its translocation across the liposome membrane. The translocated activity of β‐gal from inner to outer aqueous phase of liposomes indicated the maximal value when the liposomes entrapping β‐gal were heated at 45 °C for 30 min. The gel permeation profiles of the liposomes before and after heat treatment (45 °C, 30 min) also supported the translocation of β‐gal across the liposome membrane. The membrane fluidity of liposomes was found to be increased with increasing temperature, so that the hydrophobicity of liposome membrane was also increased. The local hydrophobicity of β‐gal was maximized at the temperature of 40–50 °C. The mechanisms of β‐gal translocation have been suggested to be triggered by the enhancement of hydrophobic interaction between the liposome surface and β‐gal molecules. Finally, a minimal scheme of possible mechanism on the heat‐induced translocation of β‐gal has been presented on the basis of the hydrophobic interaction between the liposome and the proteins. The experimental data on the heat‐induced translocation of β‐gal were well corresponding to those from model calculation.
Food allergen avoidance in primary prevention of food allergy
Authors: Arshad S. Hasan
Published: July 2002

Approximately 5–10% of children suffer from allergy to one or more foods. Primary prevention through a hypoallergenic diet may reduce the prevalence of food allergy and associated co‐morbidity, such as eczema and urticaria. Breastfeeding has many advantages and should be recommended for all children. Those with a history of atopy in the immediate family are at a higher risk and maternal diet during lactation, avoiding highly allergenic foods, may enhance the benefit. Cow’s milk should be strictly avoided, and supplements, if required, should be with a hypoallergenic formula. Delayed introduction of egg, nuts, wheat and fish has also been suggested. Dietary restriction may have nutritional consequences for the mother and child and supervision by a dietician is essential. Maternal diet during pregnancy is not advisable as the benefit is minimal and there may be adverse effects on the foetal nutrition. In high risk infants, a combined approach, where breastfeeding with maternal avoidance of highly allergenic foods, supplemented by extensively hydrolysed formula during the first 6 months of life, in addition to the delayed introduction of solid foods, has been shown to reduce the development of food allergy in infants.
Characterization of serum antibody to Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans GroEL‐like protein in periodontitis patients and healthy subjects
Authors: Tabeta K. , Yoshie H. , Yamazaki K.
Published: July 2002

Recent evidence suggests that molecular mimicry between bacterial and human heat shock protein 60 (hsp60) is involved in various conditions of autoimmune and infectious diseases. Many periodontopathic bacteria have been reported to express GroEL‐like protein that is homologous to human hsp60. In this study, the presence of antibodies to the hsp60 of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans in the sera of periodontitis patients and periodontally healthy control subjects was evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay using a recombinant A. actinomycetemcomitans GroEL as an antigen. Furthermore, their cross‐reactivity with Escherichia coli GroEL and Mycobacterium bovis BCG hsp65 was examined. The mean values of antibody were 0.624 (range 0.088–1.113) and 0.728 (range 0.217–1.296) in control subjects and periodontitis patients, respectively. The antibody levels to A. actinomycetemcomitans after absorption with E. coli GroEL and M. bovis BCG clearly decreased in both control subjects and periodontitis patients. The remaining antibody levels to A. actinomycetemcomitans GroEL after absorption with M. bovis BCG hsp65 were higher than those with E. coli GroEL, indicating higher cross‐reactivity with E. coli GroEL. These results suggest that not only periodontitis patients but also periodontally healthy subjects may be infected with A. actinomycetemcomitans but that the part of the antibody could be derived from the cross‐reactivity with E. coli GroEL. Any relationship of the antibody to the disease, however, remains to be determined.
Fission of Biological Membranes: Interplay Between Dynamin and Lipids
Authors: Kozlov Michael M.
Published: July 2002

Membrane budding and fission are the key stages of ubiquitous processes of formation of intracellular transport vesicles. We present a theoretical consideration of one of the most important types of fission machinery, which is mediated by GTPase dynamin and controlled by lipid composition of the membrane. We suggest a mechanism for collapse of a membrane neck driven by interplay between the dynamin collar and the bending elastic energy of the neck membrane. The collar plays a role of a rigid external skeleton, which imposes mechanical constraints on the neck. We show that in certain conditions the membrane of the neck loses its stability and collapses. Collapse can result from: (i) shifting of the spontaneous curvature of the neck membrane towards negative values, (ii) stretching of the dynamin collar, (iii) tightening of the dynamin collar. The three factors can act separately or concertedly. The suggested model accounts for the major experimental knowledge on membrane fission mediated by dynamin. It includes the elements of all previous models of dynamin action based on different sets of experimental results [Sever et al., Traffic 2000; 1: 385–392]. It reconciles, at least partially, the apparent contradictions between the existing alternative views on biomembrane fission machinery.
Public health impact of adverse bone effects of oral corticosteroids
Authors: Van Staa T. P. , Abenhaim L. , Cooper C. , Zhang B. , Leufkens H. G. M.
Published: July 2002

Aims  The objective of this study was to estimate the number of fractures attributed to oral corticosteroid use.

Methods  Information was obtained from the General Practice Research Database which contains medical records of general practitioners in the UK. The total number of corticosteroid‐related fractures during a course of treatment was estimated using the formula for attributable risk among the exposed.

Results  A total of 244 235 patients was prescribed an oral corticosteroid. The rate of hip fractures increased exponentially with age in both males and females. The excess number of hip fracture cases among females aged 85 years or older using 7.5 mg prednisolone per day or more was 1.4 cases per 100 patients per year. About 47% of all hip and 72% of all vertebral fractures that occurred can be attributed to oral corticosteroid use. Among 10 000 female users of higher doses, 99.7 nonvertebral, 31.6 hip and 45.8 vertebral fractures can be attributed to use of oral corticosteroids.

Conclusions  The targeting of high‐risk patients will be important for implementing preventative strategies in a cost‐effective manner.
Comparing global models of terrestrial net primary productivity (NPP): importance of vegetation structure on seasonal NPP estimates
Authors: Bondeau A. , Kicklighter D. W. , Kaduk J. , Intercomparison ThE. Participants OF. ThE. Potsdam NpP. Model
Published: July 2002

Estimates of the seasonal absorbed fraction of photosynthetically active radiation (FPAR) and net primary productivity (NPP) are compared among four production efficiency models (PEMs) and seven terrestrial biosphere models simulating canopy development. In addition, the simulated FPARs of the models are compared to the FASIR‐FPAR derived from NOAA‐AVHRR satellite observations. All models reproduce observed summergreen phenology of temperate deciduous forests rather well, but perform less well for raingreen phenology of savannas. Some models estimate a much longer active canopy in savannas than indicated by satellite observations. As a result, these models estimate high negative monthly NPP during the dry season. For boreal and tropical evergreen ecosystems, several models overestimate LAI and FPAR. When the simulated canopy does respond to unfavourable periods, the seasonal NPP is largely determined by absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (APAR). When the simulated canopy does not respond to unfavourable periods, the light use efficiency (LUE) influences the seasonal NPP more. However, the relative importance of APAR and LUE can change seasonally.
Prognostic factors in ovarian carcinosarcoma: a clinicopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of 23 cases
Authors: Ariyoshi K , Kawauchi S , Kaku T , Nakano H , Tsuneyoshi M
Published: July 2002

Carcinosarcoma of the ovary is a rare, highly aggressive neoplasm comprising histologically of both epithelial and mesenchymal components. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinicopathological prognostic factors in ovarian carcinosarcoma, including the immunohistochemical expression of p53 protein and Ki67.

Methods and results: 

Twenty‐three cases of carcinosarcoma of the ovary were studied retrospectively. The clinicopathological and immunohistochemical parameters including p53 and Ki67 staining were statistically analysed to investigate the prognostic significance of this tumour. The overall 5‐year survival rate was 27.1%; 100% for stage I, 31.3% for stage II, 10.9% for stage III and 0% for stage IV. The low‐stage group (stages I and II) was found to be a significant prognostic factor for patient survival (P = 0.0113). None of the other factors (tumour size, histological type of carcinomatous and sarcomatous components, mitotic count, vascular space invasion and immunoreactivity for p53 protein and Ki67) was found to be a statistically significant prognostic indicator.

Conclusions: 

Ovarian carcinosarcoma is a rare malignancy with poor prognosis. In this study, advanced stage appears to be poor prognostic indicator of survival in patients with ovarian carcinosarcoma.