bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Fatigue Strength Analysis of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Material Shaft Result of 3D Printing Process due to Rotating Bending Load
Authors: Abdurrahman Wahid , Fitri Muhamad
Published: January 2022

Prototyping a product using 3D (three-dimensional) printing process has been widely used. One of the materials commonly used is ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene). Currently, research did not refer to ASTM E-466 and tested specimens at 75% infill density without endurance limit analysis. The purpose of this research was to analyse the fatigue strength of 3D printed ABS material with infill density 100% due to rotating bending load according to ASTM E-466 standard, compare it with the 75% infill density test result and determine the value of its endurance limit. The research method used is experimental research by testing the fatigue strength of a number of ABS material specimens with four rotating bending load conditions until the specimen fails. The obtained result of the research is a S-N curve with maximum average cycle of 143702 at a stress of 26.87 MPa and minimum average cycle of 145 at a stress of 35.71 MPa. The shaft fatigue strength of ABS 3D printed with infill density 100% material has higher cycles at stresses below 37.1 MPa and lower cycles at stresses above 37.1 MPa compared to 75% infill density. The endurance limit obtained from the regression of the S-N curve is 16.25 MPa.
Hardness and Wear Properties of Al-TiN Coatings Produced by DC Sputtering
Authors: Margono  , Priyambodo Bambang Hari , Nugroho Kacuk Cikal , Sujitno Tjipto , Suprapto
Published: January 2022

Aluminum is a lightweight material that is commonly used in engine components. However, aluminum's low hardness and wear resistance, requires special treatment before being used as a component. Increasing the hardness and wear resistance of aluminum can be done by coating Titanium Nitride (TiN) with the sputtering method. In this study, the effect of sputtering time on Al-TiN coating on hardness and wear resistance was obtained. The deposition of titanium nitride thin films on aluminum using a gas ratio of Ar: N ((70:30%) with varied treatment times of 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes. Hardness and wear resistance were observed using Vickers hardness tester and Ogoshi High-Speed Universal. Whereas the morphology of the wear surface was observed by SEM. The result shows that the treatment time of 60 minutes obtained the highest hardness and minimum specific wear rate.
Corrosion Protection on AISI 304 by Shot Peening Treatment with Variation of Particle Size and Shooting Pressure
Authors: Priyambodo Bambang Hari , Margono  , Nugroho Kacuk Cikal
Published: January 2022

AISI 304 is widely used as biomedical material due to its lower cost and availability, but low corrosion resistance. The shot peening method can increase the mechanical characteristics and corrosion resistance of a surface. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of shot peening surface treatment with a combination of steel ball diameter variations and pressure on corrosion resistance of AISI 304 material. Shot peening treatment was carried out using variations of 0.2, 0.5, and 0.8 mm steel ball diameters with a hardness of around 40-50 HRC. Shot peening pressure varies from 7, 8, and 9 bar. Corrosion rate testing was carried out using bovine serum media. The results showed that the best increase in corrosion resistance was 0.117 mpy for a steel ball diameter of 0.5 mm with a pressure of 9 bar, 3 times lower than that of non-treated specimens, which was 0.378 mpy.
Effect of transformational leadership on organizational commitment through the interaction of psychological empowerment
Authors: Raveendran Thaneswary
Published: January 2022

The present study was aimed at examining the association between transformational leadership and organizational commitment, and the mediating role of psychological empowerment in the association between them. Even though there are plenty of empirical studies on the association between leadership styles and organizational commitment in various contexts, there is inadequate evidence in the Sri Lankan context. Considering the gap in the current literature, the study was conducted on the Development Officers working in the public sector organizations in the Jaffna region. For this purpose a sample of 235 Development Officers attached to the District Secretariat and Divisional Secretariats was selected based on random sampling method. The transformational leadership was measured using MLQ- Form 5x (Bass & Avolio, 2000), organizational commitment was measured using OCQ (Meyer & Allen, 1997) and empowerment was measured using Empowerment Scale (Spreitzer, 1995). Exploratory factor analysis and Confirmatory factor analysis were performed to validate the data and then the constructs were integrated in the structural equation model to find the relationships among the variables. The results revealed that the direct effect of transformational leadership on organizational commitment is not significant (b=.011, p>.05). The effect of transformational leadership on psychological empowerment is significant (B=.621, p=.001). The results confirm that psychological empowerment doesn’t act as a mediator in the effect of transformational leadership on organizational commitment (direct effect and indirect effect are not significant). As the present study concludes transformational leadership is not effective in promoting commitment of Development Officers working at District and Divisional Secretariats, future research should cover other public sector and private sector organizations. As the operative level employees’ perception of their superiors’ (first line leaders) leadership style was studied, future studies need to focus on the middle and top level leaders’ leadership styles and the resultant outcomes.
Pari dignità all'embrione umano nell'Enciclica Evangelium Vitae
Authors: Serra Angelo
Published: January 2022

L'articolo, prendendo lo spunto dalle affermazioni contenute nell'Enciclica Evangelium Vitae di Giovanni Paolo II sulla dignità del concepito, analizza attentamente nella prima parte la più recente letteratura scientifica sullo sviluppo dell'individuo umano nelle sue prime fasi, allo scopo di smentire le affermazioni di coloro che criticando la posizione magisteriale affermano - su una presunta base scientifica - che la vita umana nascente non sia vita umana personale, almeno nel primissimo periodo dopo il concepimento. Dati scientifici alla mano emerge - secondo una logica induttiva propria della ricerca sperimentale - che il processo attraverso il quale prende forma un nuovo essere umano possiede tre caratteristiche: 1. la coordinazione, secondo cui lo sviluppo embrionale è un susseguirsi ed integrarsi coordinato di attività cellulari e molecolari sotto il controllo del nuovo genoma; la continuità per la quale lo stesso e identico essere che si forma ininterrottamente secondo un piano ben definito; c. la gradualità, che implica da parte del concepito il raggiungimento della forma definitiva in modo graduale. Ne deriva perciò che alla fusione dei due gameti umani, un nuovo individuo umano inizia la propria esistenza o ciclo vitale, durante il quale egli realizzerà autonomamente tutte le potenzialità di cui è intrinsecamente dotato. Si dimostra, perciò, che l'embrione non è un potenziale soggetto umano, ma un reale soggetto umano. Se dunque la scienza può affermare con tutto rigore che già nello zigote c'è  un soggetto umano che inizia il suo proprio ciclo vitale, spetta poi alle discipline filosofiche', teologiche e giuridiche analizzare e definire quale valore intrinseco assegnare a questo nuovo individuo umano. Di questo aspetto l'Autore si occupa nella seconda parte dell'articolo, nel quale si argomenta a sostegno della dignità  inalienabile ed inviolabile della vita umana fin dal concepimento. In definitiva, nella Evangelium Vitae l'embrione ha il posto che gli spetta: pari dignità come ogni altro soggetto umano e che, quindi, di questo soggetto non è lecito disporre come di un oggetto.
Clinical outcomes of EUS-guided radiofrequency ablation for unresectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Oh Dongwook , Seo Dong-Wan , Song Tae Jun , Park Do Hyun , Lee Sung Koo , Kim Myung-Hwan
Published: January 2022

Background and Objectives:

EUS-guided radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA) has been increasingly used for the treatment of pancreatic neoplasms. The role of EUS-RFA in the management of pancreatic cancer has not yet been elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the survival impact of EUS-RFA in unresectable pancreatic cancer.

Methods:

Twenty-two patients (n = 14, locally advanced unresectable; n = 8, metastatic) with unresectable pancreatic cancer underwent EUS-RFA combined with subsequent chemotherapy between May 2016 and June 2019. Survival outcomes including overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were evaluated.

Results:

EUS-RFA was successful in all patients. The median number of RFA sessions was 5 (interquartile range, [IQR], 3.25–5.75). After successful EUS-RFA, subsequent gemcitabine-based chemotherapy was performed. Early procedure-related adverse events occurred in 4 out of 107 sessions (3.74%), including peritonitis (n = 1) and abdominal pain (n = 3). During follow-up over a median of 21.23 months (IQR, 10.73–27.1), the median OS and PFS were 24.03 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 16–35.8) and 16.37 months (95% CI, 8.87–19), respectively.

Conclusions:

EUS-RFA is technically feasible and safe for the management of unresectable pancreatic cancer. EUS-RFA combined with systemic chemotherapy may be associated with favorable survival outcomes. Further larger-scale prospective comparative study is required to confirm these findings.
EUS-guided drainage of the pancreatic duct for the treatment of postoperative stenosis of pancreatico-digestive anastomosis or pancreatic duct stenosis complicating chronic pancreatitis: Experience at a tertiary care center
Authors: Rudler Franz , Caillol Fabrice , Ratone Jean-Philippe , Pesenti Christian , Valats Jean-Christophe , Soloveyv Alexei , Giovannini Marc
Published: January 2022

Background and Objectives:

For the treatment of pancreatic duct stenosis due to chronic pancreatitis (CP) or postoperative (PO) stenosis, endoscopic procedures are usually the first choice. In cases of failure of the recommended treatment by ERCP, anastomosis between the Wirsung duct and the stomach or duodenum can be performed under EUS guidance. The objective of this retrospective study was to compare the outcomes of pancreatico-gastric or pancreaticoduodenal anastomosis under EUS for PO stenosis versus CP stenosis.

Subjects and Methods:

This was a retrospective, single-center, consecutive case study of patients who underwent EUS-guided Wirsungo-gastric/bulbar anastomosis.

Results:

Forty-three patients were included. Twenty-one patients underwent treatment for PO stenosis, and 22 patients underwent treatment for CP stenosis. The technical success rate was 95.3% (41/43), with 100% in cases of PO stenosis and 90.9% in cases of CP stenosis. The clinical success rate was 72.5% (29/40): 75% (15/20) in cases of PO stenosis and 70% (14/20) in cases of CP stenosis. The overall morbidity rate was 34.9% (15/43). The main complication was postprocedural pain, occurring in 20.9% (9/443) of patients. The rate of stent migration or obstruction was 27.9% (12/43). There was no difference in patient outcomes or morbidity according to the etiology of the stenosis. The median follow-up duration in this study was 14 months.

Conclusions:

EUS-guided Wirsungo-gastric/duodenal anastomosis is a feasible, minimally invasive, safe, and relatively effective procedure. The rates of technical success, clinical success, and complications were not different between patients with PO and CP stenosis. However, the follow-up period was too short to assess recurrent symptoms in these patients.
Deep Neck Abscess
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar , Lenka Smarita , Jena Pragnya Paramita
Published: January 2022

Background:

Deep neck abscess is a life-threatening clinical entity. It can result in significant morbidity for the patients. Deep neck abscess continues to be commonly found in developing countries like India.

Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted at tertiary care teaching hospital in eastern India from September 2016 to October 2021. The medical records of patients diagnosed with deep neck abscesses with an age range between 18 years and 65 years were reviewed. This study analyzes the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of the deep neck abscess.

Results:

There was a predominance of male patients with deep neck abscesses (62.12%) and a mean age of 32.4 years. The most common clinical manifestation was fever (26.51%), followed by odynophagia (23.48%), neck swelling (20.45%), restricted neck movement (13.63%), otalgia (12.12%), trismus (11.36%), neck pain (10.60%), and stridor (2.27%). The peritonsillar abscess (28.78%) was the most commonly affected space of the deep neck abscess of this study. The important life-threatening complication in this study was stridor (2.27%).

Conclusion:

Early diagnosis, aggressive surgical intervention, and proper airway management are important factors for reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with deep neck abscesses.
Semi-local simple connectedness of non-collapsing Ricci limit spaces
Authors: Pan Jiayin , Wei Guofang
Published: January 2022

Let

X

be a non-collapsing Ricci limit space and let

x\in X

. We show that for any

\epsilon>0

, there is

r>0

such that every loop in

B_t(x)

is contractible in

B_{(1+\epsilon)t}(x)

, where

t\in(0,r]

. In particular,

X

is semi-locally simply connected.
Numeric score and visual analog scale in assessing seasonal allergic rhinitis severity
Authors: Rouve S. , Didier A. , Demoly P. , Jankowsky R. , Klossek J.-M. , Annesi-Maesano I. , Annesi-Maesano I.
Published: January 2022

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is characterized by symptoms whose severity can be difficult to quantify due to the patient’s subjective perception. The aim of this study was to compare two methods for assessing the severity of allergic rhinitis, a numerical score (SGS) and a visual analog scale (VAS), respectively. Methods: A large study was carried out on more than 36,000 patients with a diagnosis of a non-complicated and non-treated seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) between May and August 2004 over all the metropolitan France. For each patient, a physician had to assess the severity of the AR calculating a score corresponding to the intensity of the symptoms as felt by the patient but also using an analog scale. Results: SAR severity differed according to the used method: 18.94% of the patients were classed severe according to the SGS and 23.58% according to the VAS. Moreover, among the 35,126 people for which the two measures were available, 23.86% were classed severe according to one but not according to the other. These patients differ from those classed in the same manner by SGS and VAS in age, gender, type of doctor and geographical area. SGS and VAS correlated each other. Principal prescribed drugs for SAR were antihistamines and local steroids. Conclusion: Severity assessment varied according to the used method.
Development and validation of the Functional Rhinoplasty Outcome Inventory 17 (FROI-17)
Authors: Bulut Cem , Wallner Frank , Plinkert Peter K. , Baumann Ingo
Published: January 2022

Statement of problem: Quality of life aspects become more and more important in all fields of medicine. There is a lack of such instruments for septorhinoplasty that cover sufficiently both functional and aesthetic aspects. Methodology: In Phase 1, a group of experts identified 22 questions that represent the symptoms of patients with nasal deformities, which undergo a functional and aesthetic nasal surgery. Forty-one patients filled out the questionnaires before septorhinoplasty. The item assessment and item reduction was performed by a sequential statistical analysis, which included a single item analysis, an assessment of internal consistency, construct validity, the divergence validity and a factor analysis. The resulting 17-item questionnaire was used in a prospective validation study (Phase 2) in which 103 patients were enrolled. Statistical analysis included testing of validity, reliability and responsiveness. Results: In Phase 2 data analysis revealed a good internal consistency and significant test-retest reliability. A literature survey confirmed that the relevant items were included in the questionnaire. We found significant item-score-correlations. Furthermore, the existence of concurrent validity was confirmed. Standardized Response Mean (SRM) as a measure for sensitivity to change indicated moderate to large effects. Conclusion: FROI-17 is a valid quality of life instrument for use in septorhinoplasty patients. The instrument is now available for prospective data collection in future septorhinoplasty outcome studies.
Objective measures for functional diagnostic of the upper airways: practical aspects
Authors: Chaves C. , de Andrade C.R. , Ibiapina C.
Published: January 2022

Objective: To review the main papers published on the main available tests to obtain objective values of nasal patency and to demonstrate aspects of their use in medical practice. Methodology: We performed a non-systematic review of the MEDLINE and LILACS databases, and the most relevant articles were selected. Results: Objective evaluations are important in epidemiological studies and in monitoring of patients with nasal obstruction. There is a wide variety of objective tests of nasal function; among them acoustic rhinometry, rhinomanometry, and peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) are currently the most used tests. Conclusion: The choice of the method to evaluate nasal function depends on the conditions of each health service. PNIF has been highlighted as a simple and reliable alternative that provides easy-to-interpret results, and is thus an attractive method for clinical practice.
The prevalence of Epstein-Barr Virus-positive lymphoid cells in nasal mucosa: an extremely rare event
Authors: Yeon Ha S. , Park S.
Published: January 2022

Background: The prevalence of EBV (Epstein-Barr virus)-positive lymphoid cells is unknown. Because EBV is implicated in the etiology of extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type (nasal ENKL), the presence of EBV-positive lymphoid cells (EPLs) in nasal mucosa specimens is expected. This study evaluated the presence of EBV-positive lymphoid cells in the nasal mucosa of 420 patients who had undergone surgical resection of lesions of the nasal cavity due to nasal septal deviation, chronic paranasal rhinosinusitis, chronic hypertrophic rhinosinusitis, nasal polyps, allergic rhinitis, papillomas, and cysts. Methodology: Three representative 1.0-mm-diameter core biopsies were taken from one paraffin-embedded donor tissue block per case and subsequently arranged in new recipient paraffin blocks with a trephine. EBV in situ hybridization study was performed to detect EPLs. Results: None of the cases demonstrated EPLs. Conclusion: The presence of EPLs in the nasal mucosa is an extremely rare event in immunocompetent individuals. Therefore, the detection of EPLs in nasal biopsy specimens should prompt the pathologist to perform further testing to exclude the possibility of nasal ENKL.
Importance of nasal septal cartilage perichondrium for septum strength mechanics: a cadaveric study
Authors: Tekke N.S. , Alkan Z. , Yigit O. , Bekem A. , Unal A. , Sahin F. , Balikci H.H. , Acioglu E. , Durna Y.M.
Published: January 2022

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the biomechanical qualities of the perichondrium and cartilage, and to determine the strength of the septal cartilage against bending forces. Study design: This paper describes an experimental cadaver study. Materials and methods: The nasal septal cartilages of 14 fresh cadavers (8 hours postmortem) were excised from the cadavers and cut into two strips: one with the perichondrium (group A) and one without perichondrium (group B). A bending test was then performed on the strips. Results: The deflection of group A strips was larger than the deflection of group B strips. Flexural strength was also larger in group A strips compared to group B strips. The average modulus of elasticity was 122% higher in group A compared to group B. All conducted tests revealed statistically significant differences between groups. Conclusion: This study objectively shows that the perichondrium provides the cartilage with a 25% bending strength.
The determining factors of peak nasal inspiratory flow and perception of nasal airflow in asthmatics
Authors: Thorstensen W.M. , Sue-Chu M. , Bugten V. , Cvancarova M. , Steinsvag S.K.
Published: January 2022

Background: The effect of pulmonary pathology on peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) remains largely unknown. We investigated an association between a diagnosis of asthma and of lung function on PNIF when adjusted for possible confounders. Further, we investigated the perception of nasal obstruction in asthmatics compared to healthy controls when adjusted for PNIF. Methodology: Eighty-seven asthmatics and 92 non-asthmatic controls underwent PNIF (categorized into groups of high, medium and low), acoustic rhinometry (AR) and spirometry, and we assessed symptoms of nasal obstruction on visual analogue scales (VAS) in three categories. Results: PNIF was significantly associated with asthma and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (% predicted). Other factors associated with PNIF were the degree of nasal obstruction measured both subjectively on a VAS and objectively with AR, age and disease status. Asthma patients were 19 times more likely to be in a higher VAS category compared to non-asth- matic controls independent of PNIF group. Conclusion: Special care has to be taken when interpreting PNIF values in patients with asthma or reduced FEV1 (% predicted). The sensation of nasal obstruction in asthmatics is different from controls despite being in the same PNIF group.
Does the contraceptive pill influence peak nasal inspiratory flow values?
Authors: Ottaviano Giancarlo , Cosmi Erich , Iacono Valentina , Scarpa Bruno , Staffieri Alberto , Scadding Glenis K.
Published: January 2022

Background: Early oral contraceptive pills (OCP) had higher estrogen levels and have been thought to cause nasal obstruction in about 40% of women users. A recent small study conducted on women taking OCP showed no significant effects on nasal patency. The aim of the present study was to analyse in a large number of volunteers if Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF) values could be influenced by modern OCP. Methodology: PNIF was measured in 257 women (from 14 to 51 years old), divided into two groups: the study group composed of 109 healthy women taking modern OCP; the control group composed of 148 healthy women who did not take OCP. 9 women in the study group were excluded because of allergic disease, 248 females were finally considered. Data were statistically analysed and figures/tables were produced to see the effect of OCP on PNIF. Results: The present study could not show any effect of OCP on nasal function. Moreover, while height influenced PNIF in both groups, age was not statistically significant. Conclusion: From the present study, it seems that OCP could have no effects on nasal airflow, confirming that modern OCP with lower estrogen doses should not affect nasal mucosa or nasal patency.
Evaluation of potential applications of dietary probiotic (Bacillus licheniformis SB3086): Effect on growth, digestive enzyme activity, hematological, biochemical, and immune response of Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus)
Authors: Yaqub Atif , Awan Muhammad Nabeel , Kamran Muhammad , Majeed Iqra
Published: January 2022

The present study was designed to evaluate the dietary effect of dietary supplementation of Bacillus licheniformis on growth, hematological and immune parameters of Oreochromis mossambicus fingerlings. A feeding trial of 8 weeks was carried out, in which fish were fed at a rate of 2% body weight with four experimental diets, including a control diet and three supplemented diets such as, 105, 107 and 109
CFUg-1 respectively. At the termination of feeding experiment, growth related parameters, hematological and immune response of fish were evaluated. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly decreased, inferring high efficiency in utilizing feed. In similar groups, hematological parameters such as total erythrocyte count, total leukocyte, total serum protein, blood glucose level and hemoglobin count were significantly increased (P<0.05), with higher probiotic concentration. Similarly, digestive enzyme activity of protease, lipase and amylase was also higher in fish fed with increased concentration of probiotic. Diet groups having 109 CFUg-1 of probiotic was observed with elevated immune response, as levels of lysozyme activity, respiratory burst activity and phagocytic activity were significantly higher (P<0.05) in this group as compared to control group. In conclusion, supplementation of diet with Bacillus licheniformis can enhance growth performance, and health status of O. mossambicus.
Топологическая классификация биллиардов в трехмерном евклидовом пространстве, ограниченных софокусными квадриками
Authors: Belozerov Gleb Vladimirovich
Published: January 2022

Рассматриваются биллиарды на связных компактных столах в $\mathbb{R}^3$, ограниченных конечным числом софокусных квадрик и имеющих двугранные углы, равные ${\pi}/{2}$. Биллиарды в таких областях являются интегрируемыми, имея три первых интеграла, инволютивных внутри области. Введено два отношения эквивалентности: комбинаторная эквивалентность столов-областей, определяемая устройством их границы, и слабая эквивалентность соответствующих биллиардных систем на них. Выполнена классификация биллиардных столов в $\mathbb{R}^3$ относительно комбинаторной эквивалентности, получено 35 классов попарно неэквивалентных столов. Для каждого из полученных классов столов определен класс гомеоморфности неособого изоэнергетического 5-многообразия: либо $S^5$, либо $S^1\times S^4$, либо $S^2\times S^3$. Получено 24 класса попарно неэквивалентных (относительно слабой эквивалентности) слоений Лиувилля биллиардов на указанных столах в ограничении на неособый уровень энергии. Также определены атомы-бифуркации трехмерных торов, соответствующие дугам бифуркационной диаграммы.
Библиография: 59 названий.
Re-Six decades of infectious bursal disease in poultry: The journey so far and challenges ahead
Authors: Lawal N.
Published: January 2022

The initial version of the article published in Volume 19 (September 2021) contained an error in the issue number written on the first page. The correct issue number is 19(3) and not 19(2) as earlier published.
Preparation, characterization and stability of silver sulfadiazine nanoliposomes
Authors: Alkhatib Delia , Zelai Noha
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To prepare, characterize and investigate the stability and drug release profile of silver sulfadiazine (AgSD) nanoliposomes as functions of pH, UV exposure, and/or heat.

Methods: Silver sulfadiazine (AgSD) nanoliposomes were prepared. The stability and release properties of the free drug and nanoliposomal formulations of AgSD as functions of pH, UV exposure, and/or heat were analyzed. The analyses were performed at different time points.

Results: The results of characterization showed that acidic, basic and neutral silver sulfadiazine nano-liposomal suspensions (AgSD NLSs) were produced as stable homogenous formulations, as indicated by low polydispersity index (PDI) and high zeta potential. The three AgSD NLSs and AgSD were unstable under different heat and/or UV conditions. The pH tended to shift towards neutrality, starting from day 1. Silver sulfadiazine nanoliposomal suspensions (AgSD NLSs) and free drug (AgSD) exhibited similar release properties (100 % of the drug was released at day 12).

Conclusion: Incorporation of AgSD into nanoliposomes has no significant effect on the stability and in vitro release properties of the drug. This indicates that NLS did not change the physical characteristics of the drug. Studies that focus only on improving the lipophilicity of silver sulfadiazine may benefit from these results.
Inhibitory effect and mechanism of action of tanshinone IIA on human bladder cancer cell J82
Authors: Zhang Xianjun , Lu Ziwen , Piao Songzhe , Hong Tao
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the therapeutic influence of tanshinone IIA on human bladder cancer cell J82, and the possible signal route involved.

Methods: Cell proliferative potential was measured using MTT assay, while the expressions of associated genes were determined by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunoblot assays.

Results: Tanshinone IIA decreased J82 cell survival rate by > 42 % and inactivated apoptosis by suppressing PI3K/AKT/mTOR signal route. Moreover, it decreased Bcl-2, but upregulated caspase and Bax (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The inhibitory effect of TIIA on human bladder cancer suggests that TIIA can be developed into an anti-tumor agent.
Development and characterization of ceftriaxone in-situ gel-forming biodegradable parenteral depot system
Authors: Anum Kamil , Naureen Humaira , Masood-Ur-Rehman  , Riaz Tahzeeba , Sarwar Atif , Ahsan Aitzaz , Butt Erum , Noor-ul-Husnain  , Awais Sophia
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To design parenteral in-situ gel of ceftriaxone using poloxamer as a thermosensitive agent, Carbopol as a pH-sensitive polymer and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose as a viscosity enhancer.

Method: Lyophilized ceftriaxone was added in solution form to enhance its solubility and stability. Several formulations were designed using poloxamer (P 188, F 127 and P 407) and Carbopol (934P and 940) in varying concentrations, out of which an optimized formulation was chosen on the basis of its gelling capacity and respective transit time. Drug content uniformity, sterility and stability were studied. Drug-polymer and polymer-polymer interaction were determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Characterization of optimized formulation was carried out by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In-vitro release profile was determined by a modified Franz diffusion method.

Results: Optimized formulation Q2 was characterized for various physicochemical parameters and found to be stable. In-vitro release study showed first order release pattern. DSC thermograms revealed that the polymers were compatible with each other as no physicochemical interactions were observed. The results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD, p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion: Optimized formulation Q2 provided sustained release up to 10 days following first order release kinetics, and thus can be further developed for large-scale production.
MiR-452 negatively regulates osteoblast differentiation in periodontal ligament stem cells by targeting the polycomb-group protein, BMI1
Authors: Mao Tiantian , Li Jun , Peng Ruobing , Liu Linhua , Peng Youjian
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To determine whether miR-452 regulates osteoblast differentiation (OD) in human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) by targeting polycomb-group protein BMI1.

Methods: hPDLSCs were stimulated to differentiate upon treatment with mineralization liquid. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting were used to measure mRNA and protein expressions, respectively. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and Alizarin red staining were used to determine the osteogenic differentiation (OD) of hPDLSCs. The bioinformatics software, Targetscan, was used to predict the potential target of miR-452, while luciferase assay, qRT- PCR, and western blot were employed to verify the target gene of miR-452, BMI1.

Results: MiR-452 was downregulated during the OD of hPDLSCs, but miR-452 overexpression inhibited the OD of hPDLSCs. BMI1 was identified as a direct target gene of miR-452 during the OD of hPDLSCs, while miR-452 overexpression correlated inversely with BMI1 expression during OD of hPDLSCs.

Conclusion: Overexpression of miR-452 suppresses the OD of hPDLSCs by targeting BMI1.This study may provide potential diagnostic and therapeutic basis for OD in hPDLSCs.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Oroxylum indicum Kurz (L.) fruit extract in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated BV2 microglial cells
Authors: Mairuae Nootchanat , Cheepsunthorn Poonlarp , Buranrat Benjaporn
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant activity of Oroxylum indicum (L.) Kurz fruit extract in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV2 microglia.

Methods: BV2 cells were treated with LPS for 24 h in the presence or absence of O. indicum fruit extract. Then, nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and interleukin 6 (IL-16) levels were measured using Griess reagent assay, CM-H2DCFDA and enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assays, respectively. The in vitro antioxidant property of the extract was also investigated by 1,1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) assays.

Results: Levels of IL-6, NO, and ROS in LPS-treated BV2 cells were significantly higher than those in control (p < 0.01). However, exposure of LPS-treated BV2 cells to O. indicum extract led to a marked decrease in the levels of these parameters, when compared to the untreated cells (p < 0.01). Results from DPPH and ABTS assays showed that the O. indicum extract exhibited good antioxidant properties, with total flavonoid and total phenolic contents of 115.58 ± 1.09 and 131.04 ± 2.37 mg/g of dried extract, respectively.

Conclusion: The results demonstrate that O. indicum fruit exerts anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-stimulated BV2 cells. Thus O. indicum fruit might be beneficial in the development of novel anti-oxidative and anti-neuroinflammatory herbal medicines. However, the mechanisms by which O. indium fruits reduces NO and IL-6 needs to be further investigated.
Effects of bee propolis on thyroid function tests in healthy volunteers
Authors: Alassaf Fawaz A. , Qazzaz Mohannad E. , Alfahad Mohanad , Abed Mohammed N. , Jasim Mahmood H.M. , Thanoon Imad A.J.
Published: January 2022

Purpose: The current study investigates the effects of bee propolis as a dietary supplement on thyroid function in healthy individuals.

Methods: Sixty-nine apparently healthy subjects of both genders aged between 25 and 45 years and had a body mass index in the range of 18.5-25 kg m-2 were enrolled in the study. The participants were divided into two groups, 34 volunteers treated with 1 gram of bee propolis daily and the other 35 were on placebo pills for 2 months. Total triiodothyronine (TT3), total thyroxine (TT4) and ultra-sensitive thyroid stimulating hormone (USTSH) were measured in the two groups before and after treatment to assess thyroid function.

Results: The results showed a significant increase in body weight (from 73.4 ± 7.2 to 74.8 ± 7.5 kg, p < 0.05) and BMI (from 24.2 ± 1.2 to 24.7 ± 1.5 kg m-2 , p < 0.05) with significantly decreased TT3 (from 2.17 ± 0.07 to 1.87 ± 0.09 nmol/L, p < 0.01) in bee propolis-treated group, whereas TT4 and USTSH showed non-significant changes.

Conclusion: The results reveal a significant association of bee propolis supplementation with reduced TT3 levels in healthy subjects. The link may assist clinicians in monitoring the safety of bee propolis supplementation.
Iontophoresis-assisted pediatric transdermal delivery of ropivacaine to enhance anesthetic effect
Authors: Yu Liqun , Liu Yanna , Sang Miao
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To formulate novel transdermal patches of ropivacaine (RPV) and enhance its anesthetic activity using iontophoresis technique.

Methods: Solvent casting method was used for the development of the transdermal patches with the aid of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymers. The patches were characterized for appearance, clarity, smoothness, thickness, average weight of patches, folding endurance, RPV uniformity, moisture absorption and tensile strength. The anesthetic effect of ropivacaine patches were evaluated in a healthy pediatric population divided into two groups. One group was merely applied with the patch while the other group received the patch using LidoSite applicator. The anesthetic effect was assessed based on hot pain, cool sensation and warm sensation.

Results: The patches were smooth and transparent, about 0.29 mm in thickness, having a tensile strength of 0.51 kg/cm2 and showed in-vitro drug release of 68.94 to 96.83 %. The formulation did not exert any undesirable local skin effects, and produced minimum pain intensity. The depth of anesthesia was higher for the patch formulation with iontophoresis than for the conventional system.

Conclusion: The findings point to the superiority of RPV transdermal patches when applied with iontophoretic device as against the conventional application.
Complications and cost estimations in herpes zoster – a retrospective analysis at a Swiss tertiary dermatology clinic
Authors: Bongers Leonard D. , Navarini Alexander , Berger Christoph T. , Mueller Simon M.
Published: January 2022

INTRODUCTION: Herpes zoster is the common reactivation of latent varicella zoster virus infection and is associated with substantial morbidity and costs. Age, immunosuppression, diabetes and active cancer are important risk factors for developing herpes zoster. The recombinant herpes zoster vaccine is highly effective in preventing this infection. To inform cost-effectiveness analyses of vaccination in risk groups, it is important to define the rates of complications, mortality, and hospitalisation and its costs.
METHODS: In this single-centre, investigator-initiated, retrospective study we analysed herpes zoster patients treated in our tertiary dermatology referral centre between 2005 and 2019. Case costs were calculated using health insurance invoices and by estimating the drug-related costs. The associations between patients' characteristics and complications were assessed using logistic regression models.
RESULTS: A total of 355 herpes zoster patients were analysed (mean age 61.5 ± 18.8 years; 56.6% women). The complication rate was 30.1% (n = 107) with post-herpetic neuralgia being the most frequent (37/355, 10.4%). The herpes zoster-related hospitalisation rate was 19.2% (n = 68), the herpes zoster-related mortality rate 0.85% (n = 3). Of all patients, 22.8% (n = 81) had herpes zoster risk factors. The odds ratio for complications (multivariate analysis) was 2.5 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–5.72) in cancer patients and 1.04 (1.02–1.05) for each additional year of age (1.41 for 10 years). The cost ratio (median) of in- vs outpatient treatment was 26.9 (CHF/case 9029 vs 335), of all complicated vs non-complicated herpes zoster patients 6.6 (CHF/case 2203 vs 332) and of complicated vs non-complicated herpes zoster outpatients 4.3 (CHF/case 1331 vs 306).
CONCLUSION: In this herpes zoster population at a university hospital, one in three patients was affected by herpes zoster-related complications. Age and cancer were independently associated with a high complication rate, suggesting a need to vaccinate cancer patients. Herpes zoster-related complications and the need for inpatient treatment escalated the costs per case.
Analysis of the Effectiveness of a General Education Course in Personality Education Centered on Ethics of Life Practice －Case Study in S University
Authors: Moon Junghwa , Kim Eunkyung
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of a general education course in personality education centered on ethics of life practice within personality education at universities. The subject of the S Honor Code course attempted to cultivate global citizens with a good personality to adapt well to the future society by examining ethical norms to be observed in college life and daily life and practicing them in real life. The subject areas covered in this course are distinguished from other universities' personality education in the areas of life, such as cyber ethics, study ethics, human rights ethics, family ethics (parent-child relations, marital relations), interpersonal ethics (dating relationships, communication), and Christian ethics. The ethics in life were practiced in the students’real life.
The effect of improving personality and core competency was confirmed based on the response data of 86 students taking the S Honorary Code course and 29 students taking the elective course. This study confirmed that the S Honor Code course, centered on ethics of life practice, had a positive effect on the students' personality development in all areas of cognition, emotion, and behavior. It also contributed to the improvement of core competencies in critical thinking/problem solving, creative thinking, communication, cooperation, and learning capabilities.
Personality education centered on life ethics not only fosters knowledge of personality virtues but also provides opportunities to practice ethics in school, at home, and in society. Thus, it can be applied as a new form of personality education and provide implications for how personality education develops in the future.
An Exploratory Study on Leadership and Liberal Arts Education using “Followership” Programs －Case of Approaching a Non-subject Educational Program
Authors: Chang Je-Wook
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study is to confirm the necessity of linking “followership” research and educational trends with leadership education in liberal arts education, and to contribute to future education and research direction through followership programs and the operation of non-subject educational programs. In order to solve the research issue, first, previous studies that can confirm the connection between followership and leadership through literature research were examined. In addition, followership competency items verified by experts were collected and used as the basis for analysis, and in-depth interviews were additionally conducted with students participating in leadership and liberal arts classes to add potential necessary competencies. The research results are as follows: First, we confirmed that followership programs can serve to complement leadership education and are already sufficiently active in university education. Second, we were able to confirm five followership competencies that K university students thought were of primary necessity. Third, we found that followership-related programs can have a positive effect on enhancing the core competencies of leadership and liberal arts subjects. Fourth, we realized the keen necessity of adding additional non-subject educational program support in various fields that can incorporate followership programs. Lastly, we learned of the need to apply various research methods to graduates and enrolled students in order to spread the educational effectiveness of followership programs in liberal arts education, and suggested that followership-related non-subject educational programs should be fully considered and operated in the future.
Differences in Perceptions of Non-face-to-face Liberal Arts Classes at Universities and their Effect on Satisfaction
Authors: Seo Il Bo
Published: January 2022

In this study, implications for improving the quality of online education in the future were derived by identifying the factors affecting the educational status and class satisfaction of professors and students who have experienced non-face-to-face liberal arts classes at universities. For this purpose, 81 professors who have experience running non-face-to-face liberal arts classes and 560 current students who have taken such classes were the research subjects. As for the contents of the study, the learning experience, immersion, achievement, class satisfaction, continuing course intent, and supplementary points for the improvement of non-face-to-face education in the future were investigated.
As a result of the survey analysis, first, there were statistically significant differences between professors and students regarding class content, evaluation, immersion, achievement, and class satisfaction of the learning experience. appeared to have a positive perception (who appeared to have this perception?) Second, multiple regression analysis was performed for each professor and student to derive factors affecting overall satisfaction. As a result, in the case of instructors, factors that had a significant effect on class satisfaction were derived from achievement and interaction, and for students, this study confirmed that the degree of immersion, and interaction had a statistically significant effect. Third, as a complement to non-face-to-face liberal arts classes between professors and students, the professors demanded that the classes be conducted without interaction, whereas the students demanded improvement in the quality of video content. In this study, by synthesizing the above results, implications and follow-up studies were suggested for the improvement of non-face-to-face liberal arts classes in the future.
Exploratory Study for Introducing and Applying an AI-based Intelligent Learning System on Basic Science －Focusing on General Chemistry Class Case
Authors: Hwang Eunkyung , Shin Jongho
Published: January 2022

Artificial Intelligence is the technical foundation of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, leading innovation and change in various areas of society as a whole. Even in the education area, AI-based learning systems have the potential to be used in adaptive classes and to take into consideration the students’ learning situations. This study focused on the use of ALEKS as an AI-based system on an adapted learning system in a general chemistry class for the second semester of 2020 and the first semester of 2021, and suggested factors to consider when operating AI-applied classes. According to our study, AI-based adaptive learning systems have contributed to the improvement of conceptual learning through individual learning support and learning interest and through class operations measuring the students’ learning progress. However, in order for these exploratory studies to produce real and meaningful effects, flexible access is requires in the use of course content, learning data and systems. In addition, it seems that creative class composition and curriculum development are needed, with the application and expansion of concepts taking place in various interactions.
Finally, our exploratory research will be the basis for the introduction and application of a basic science class involving AI based adaptive learning systems.
Exclusión del ejercicio físico desde la mirada de las TIC
Authors: Posso Pacheco Richar Jacobo , Barba Miranda Laura Cristina , Paz Viteri Bertha Susana , Pereira Valdez Martha Judith , León Quinapallo Ximena Patricia , Ortiz Bravo Norma Amabilia , Noroña Casa Luis Enrique
Published: January 2022

Los autores reflexionan sobre las implicaciones de la exclusión social generada por el abuso de las TIC y sus vinculaciones con el constructo "exclusión del ejercicio físico", como una situación de separación social de las personas hacia aquellas condiciones, recursos, y acciones que fomentan la movilidad humana con fines intencionalmente terapéuticos, deportivos o educativos.