bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between health care utilization and musculoskeletal pain. A 21-year follow-up of a population cohort
Authors: Emilson Christina , Åsenlöf Pernilla , Demmelmaier Ingrid , Bergman Stefan
Published: May 2020

Background and aims

Few studies have reported the long-term impact of chronic pain on health care utilization. The primary aim of this study was to investigate if chronic musculoskeletal pain was associated with health care utilization in the general population in a 21-year follow-up of a longitudinal cohort. The secondary aim was to identify and describe factors that characterize different long-term trajectories of health care utilization.

Methods

A prospective cohort design with a baseline sample of 2,425 subjects (aged 20–74). Data were collected by self-reported questionnaires, and three time points (1995, 2007, and 2016) were included in the present 21-year follow up study. Data on health care utilization were dichotomized at each time point to either high or low health care utilization. High utilization was defined as >5 consultations with at least one health care provider, or ≥1 consultation with at least 3 different health care providers during the last 12 months. Low health care utilization was defined as ≤5 consultations with one health care provider and <3 consultations with different health care providers. The associations between baseline variables and health care utilization in 2016 were analyzed by multiple logistic regression. Five different trajectories for health care utilization were identified by visual analysis, whereof four of clinical relevance were included in the analyses.

Results

Baseline predictors for high health care utilization at the 21-year follow-up in 2016 were chronic widespread pain (OR: 3.2, CI: 1.9–5.1), chronic regional pain (OR:1.8, CI: 1.2–2.6), female gender (OR: 2.0, CI: 1.4–3.0), and high age (OR: 1.6, CI:0.9–2.9). A stable high health care utilization trajectory group was characterized by high levels of health care utilization, and a high prevalence of chronic pain at baseline and female gender (n = 23). A stable low health care utilization trajectory group (n = 744) was characterized by low health care utilization, and low prevalence of chronic pain at baseline. The two remaining trajectories were: increasing trajectory group (n = 108), characterized by increasing health care utilization, chronic pain at baseline and female gender, and decreasing trajectory group (n = 107) characterized by decreasing health care utilization despite a stable high prevalence of chronic pain over time.

Conclusions

The results suggest that chronic pain is related to long-term health care utilization in the general population. Stable high health care utilization was identified among a group characterized by female gender and a report of chronic widespread pain.

Implications

This cohort study revealed that chronic widespread pain predicted high health care utilization over a 21-year follow-up period. The results indicate the importance of early identification of musculoskeletal pain to improve the management of pain in the long run.
Narrating the ‘Liberation of Kosovo’ in Switzerland . Transnational Strategies of Boundary-Making
Authors: Farquet Romaine
Published: May 2020

Albanian-speaking migrants in Switzerland mobilized massively on behalf of the national cause in Kosovo in the 1990s. Despite this strong engagement with their homeland, however, some have felt forgotten and have been offended by negative stereotypes in Kosovo itself since the war ended in 1999. Taking a boundary-making approach, the author analyses the ways in which Albanian-speaking former activists in Switzerland have responded to their unfavourable standing, and how they have sought to improve their transnational position. She shows how former activists tend to choose between one of two narratives to describe their place in their societies of origin and settlement: either they yearn to be a part of the ‘Albanian nation’ as imagined in Kosovo; or they adopt a new model of what it is to be ‘Albanian’ in Switzerland.
Fire resistance properties of some selected tropical timber species from South-western Nigeria after fire exposure
Authors: Adetayo Oluwaseun Adedapo , Dahunsi Bamidele Ibukunolu Olugbemi
Published: May 2020

The research investigated changes in post fire density and strength properties of Nigerian wood species used for construction. The selected species are: Terminalia superba (Afara), Milicia excels (Iroko), Nauclea diderrichii (Opepe), Khaya ivorensis (Mahogany), Mansonia altissima (Mansonia), Tectona grandis (Teak). Densities and strength properties of the species were determined at Moisture Contents (MC) of 9.0, 12.0, and 15.0%. Species were exposed to fire at various temperature ranges. The results revealed that at 9, 12 and 15%MC, Opepe had the highest density values of 630±28.85kg/m³, 686±22.64kg/m³ and 752±17.22 kg/m³ respectively. At 9%MC, Mahogany had the lowest density (439±10.58kg/m³) while at 12 and 15%MC, Afara had the lowest density values of 444±4.18kg/m³ and 469±7.07kg/m³ respectively. Post fire exposure revealed that Afara had the highest percentage loss in density 29.2% and strength properties, while both Iroko and Mahogany exhibited the lowest percentage loss in both density and strength properties.
Theoretical background of ideal glazing based on adaptive thermal-optical parameters
Authors: Bizoňová Silvia
Published: May 2020

The theoretical overview serves as a basis for the design of a separate adaptive glass system. An overview of current directions is processed, which reflects the actual user requirements in relation to the thermal comfort. The concept is based on knowledge and practical experience in the field of progressive glass systems today. It uses formulated shortcomings as a tool for their elimination in the further development of the future concept. It is based on the customization of the glass system as a means of achieving the optimal temperature state of the indoor environment in order to eliminate the additional need for cooling and heat for heating buildings.
ɸ-agreement within Construct State in Jordanian Arabic
Authors: Jarrah Marwan , Altakhaineh Abdel Rahman M. , Al-Rasheedi Eisa
Published: May 2020

This paper shows that the head noun of the Construct Statemayɸ-agree (in Number and Gender) with the accompanying DP associate in Jordanian Arabic. When it occurs, this agreement is, however, only invoked when the DP associate is referential (e.g.,galam ʔil-walad‘the boy’s pen’>galamuhiʔil-waladi, butbarbiiʃ ʔil-ʁaaz‘the gas pipe’>*barbiiʃ-uhiʔil-ʁaazi). The paper provides a syntactic account of this observation which clearly demonstrates that Construct States do not constitute a homogenous group. We specifically argue that the head D° of the Construct State is endowed with a bundle of uninterpretable, unvalued ɸ-features which are valued via Agree by the DP associate of the Construct State. The outcome of this valuation, when it occurs, may surface as an inflectional suffix that appears on the head noun occupying this position, i.e. D°, in PF. For why D°-related uninterpretable ɸ-features are only valued by referential DPs, we propose that this follows from the assumption that such DPs carry a [person] feature, hence ɸ-complete, unlike nonreferential DPs which lack a [person] feature, and hence ɸ-incomplete. ɸ-incompleteness makes non-referential DPs incapable of valuing uninterpretable ɸ-features carried by c-commanding heads in Jordanian Arabic.
Language teachers’ narratives of professional experience in online class discussions
Authors: Warren Amber N.
Published: May 2020

Language teachers’ narratives of professional and personal experience have been shown to support sense-making, problem-solving, and the forging of personal connections, as well as to aid in developing their identities as language teachers. As language teacher education increasingly moves online, examining how teacher-learners engage in the sharing of professional experiences through narratives in these spaces is of paramount importance. This paper traces narratives of professional experience across 1,089 discussion posts shared by 10 Master’s students throughout one graduate-level online course, analyzing participants’ forum discussions to understand the functions of these narratives for the teacher-learners engaged in the course. Findings demonstrate how narratives of professional experience served to warrant individuals’ claims about topics related to multilingual writing pedagogy and teaching multilingual learners in general, positioning them as competent experts, often by presenting narrative events as something experienced time and again. Finally, this study considers how narratives of professional experience produce and reproduce a particular view of teachers’ role in educating language learners, collaboratively building on one another to preclude alternative stances, even when making potentially controversial claims.
‘Please make your verdict speak the truth’: Insights from an Appraisal analysis of the closing arguments from a rape trial
Authors: Bartley Leanne Victoria
Published: May 2020

It is common knowledge that language use inside the courtroom is an effective tool of persuasion; thus, even in cases where evidence is unreliable, men and women have found themselves facing charges, standing trial and, in the worst case scenario, wrongfully convicted of a crime. In this paper I examine one such case, in which a young American finds himself accused and, later, imprisoned for the rape of a minor, despite evidence to suggest otherwise. The case is taken from a database set up byThe Innocence Project, a non-profit organisation comprising a team of volunteers working towards proving the innocence of over 200 individuals currently serving time for a crime that they insist they did not commit. More specifically, my analytical focus is on the closing arguments of the selected case for the purposes of acquiring insights into how the attorneys for each side make particular language choices in a final attempt to maximise the credibility of their version of events. To reveal how the defendant and the victim are portrayed by each of the lawyers and, moreover, whose feelings and/or character traits are brought to the forefront, an Appraisal analysis is carried out on the dataset.
Purification and characterization of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase from Eisenia fetida and effects of some pesticides and metal ions
Authors: Kayhan Naciye , Çomaklı Veysel , Adem Sevki , Güler Caglar
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Earthworms have a large impact on the soil ecosystem. They are quite sensitive to pollutants. Purification and biochemical characterization of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenases (G6PD) from the earthworm species Eisenia fetida were aimed. The determination of the toxicity potentials of some soil pollutants on G6PD activity was intended.

Methods

G6PD was isolated using 2′,5′-ADP-Sepharose 4B affinity column. Enzyme purity and molecular mass were determined by SDS-PAGE. Its biochemical properties investigated. The effects of some soil pollutants on the enzyme were studied in vitro.

Results

Enzyme was purified with 28% yields and 232 fold. Optimum pH and buffer concentration, optimal and stable temperature was determined as pH: 8.5, 60 mM, 25 °C and 20 °C. Its molecular weight estimated as 36 kDa. The Ni2+, Hg2+, Pb2+, Cr2+, and Fe2+ ions with IC50 values in the range of 56 ± 06−120 ± 20 μM and the diniconazole, metalaxyl, methomyl, carboxyl, and oxamyl with IC50 values in the range of 7.6 ± 1.2−77 ± 12 μM exhibited an inhibitory effect on G6PD.

Conclusions

G6PD was isolated and characterized from E. fetida. Its catalytic activity decreased with very low concentration by pesticides and metal ions. The results indicated that the inhibition of G6PD may be important in the toxicity mechanism of pollutants on this earthworm.
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) gene inhibition via 3-Deazaneplanocin A (DZNep) in human liver cells and it is relation with fibrosis
Authors: Özel Merve , Güven İlker , Kilic Eser , Dundar Munis , Baskol Gulden
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Hepatic fibrosis is a complex and dynamic process, such as “wound healing”. The effect of 3-deazaneplanocin A (DZNep) via enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) inhibition on transforming growth factor, matrix metalloproteinases 2-9 (MMP2, MMP9) and matrix metalloproteinases inhibitor 3 (TIMP3), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen 1A1(COL1A1), and collagen 3A1 (COL3A1) genes/proteins in human hepatic stellate cell line were examined. Inhibition effect of EZH2 on colony formation and migration were investigated.

Methods

5 μM DZNep was treated to LX2 cells for 3 days. Real time PCR and Western blot method were used for analyses.

Results

DZNep was shown to reduce colony formation and migration. It increased the α-SMA only in gene expression level but decreased at the protein levels. It down-regulated both gene expression and protein levels of EZH2, while up-regulated gene expression and protein levels of TGF-β. DZNep induced gene expression and protein levels of MMP2 and TIMP3. However, DZNep induced COL1A1 and COL3A1 gene expression levels but reduced protein levels only in COL3A1 but not COL1A1.

Conclusion

DZNep has a positive anti-fibrotic effect by reducing α-SMA and COL3A1 protein levels in the LX2 cell line, however, we have found that DZNep may also has fibrotic effect because it increases TGF-β both expression and protein levels.
Blade Number Selection for a Splittered Mixed-Flow Compressor Impeller Using Improved Loss Model
Authors: Xiang Hang , Chen Jiang , Cheng Jinxin , Song Xiancheng
Published: May 2020

An improved mean streamline loss model for splittered centrifugal/mixed-flow compressor impellers is presented. One-dimensional model predictions, CFD simulations and experimental results for Krain impeller are compared to confirm the model validity. A new description for the interaction between blade number and splitter blade length of a splittered mixed-flow compressor impeller with high hub/tip ratio is discussed and formulized. The optimal principal blade number and optimal splitter blade length corresponding to maximum impeller efficiency are selected by the new formulas studied. The results indicate that the improved model and new formulas have reasonable prediction effects for the impeller efficiency and the selection of blade number and splitter blade length. Blade height/pitch ratio can also be adopted as a selection reference especially for high hub/tip impellers. Effective blade number or equivalent solidity is only suitable for evaluating load capacity rather than efficiency in impeller design processes.
Protective role of maize purple plant pigment against oxidativestress in fluorosis rat brain
Authors: Li Boyan , Varkani Keyana Nozzari , Sun Lu , Zhou Bo , Wang Xiaohong , Guo Lianying , Zhang Han , Zhang Zhuo
Published: May 2020

In fluorosis-endemic areas, exposure to high levels of fluoride causesneurotoxicity such as lowered intelligence and cognitive impairment. Oxidativedamage is critical to pathophysiologic processes of fluoride intoxication, andneurotoxicity of fluoride may be associated with oxidative stress. In previousstudies, maize purple plant pigment (MPPP), which was rich in anthocyanins,showed a strong scavenging activity in vitro and invivo. The present study aimed to determine whether treatment withMPPP can alleviate fluoride-induced oxidative damage in rat brain. After 3months of experiment, brain tissues were assayed for oxidative stress variables,histological and Western blotting examinations. Our results showed that MPPPreduced the elevated malondialdehyde levels, increased superoxide dismutaseactivity, and further attenuated histopathological alterations and mitigatedneuronal apoptosis. Importantly, MPPP also reversed changes in Bax and Bcl-2.Therefore, it was speculated that MPPP protects brain tissue from fluoridetoxicity through its antioxidant capacity.
Impact of the production method and diagnostics conditions on the compositions and structure of nanodimensional anatase
Authors: Timaeva Olesya , Nikolaichik Vladimir , Svetogorov Roman , Kuz’micheva Galina
Published: May 2020

The detail investigation of the samples with nanodimensional anatase, formed by hydrolysis of TiOSO4 × xH2O without or in the presence of polymer poly(N-vinyl caprolactam), physical precipitation of the polymer followed by the capture of commercial Hombifine N are performed by X-ray powder diffraction using laboratory and synchrotron radiation sources, transmission electron microscopy with the diffraction, and elemental analysis. The two «core»-«shell» models with nanoparticles and their associates as a core can be applied to samples produced. The synchrotron and electron radiation change the degree of crystallinity and the imperfection of anatase, isolate of TiO2−x(OH)2x × yH2O from the nanoparticle shell with a decrease in its thickness, lead to the anatase – rutile phase transition. The double diffraction effect on the appearance of kinematically forbidden reflections caused by the dynamic character of the electron diffraction. The photoactivity depends on microstructural characteristics (specific surface, nanoobjects sizes). The structure and elemental composition of nanoparticles (associates) affect antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Essential oils of spontaneous species of the genus Lavandula from Portugal: a brief review
Authors: Vairinhos Jessica , Miguel Maria Graça
Published: May 2020

Spontaneous lavender growing in uncultivated fields in Portugal have been used in traditional medicine for internal and external uses. The essential oils (EOs) of Lavandula stoechas subsp. luisieri are characterized by the presence of trans-α-necrodyl acetate and trans-necrodol. These EOs are able to prevent the generation and deposition of neurotoxic β-amyloid peptide in Alzheimer’s disease. The EOs also present antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-Leishmania, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifeedant effects. In the case of hydrodistillation, the predominant compound of Lavandula viridis EO was 1,8-cineole, nevertheless in the case of supercritical fluid extraction, the main constituent was camphor. In in vitro shoots EOs, 1,8-cineole and α-pinene were the most important compounds. The EOs presented anti-fungal activity particularly against Cryptococcus neoformans and dermatophytes. The antioxidant and anti-protozoal activities of L. viridis EOs were lower than L. stoechas subsp. luisieri EOs, with hydrodistillation being the best method for obtaining samples with higher antioxidant and anti-acetylcholinesterase activities. The presence of fenchone, 1,8-cineole and camphor was a common trace of the Lavandula pedunculata subsp. pedunculata EOs and in in vitro axillary shoots EOs. Lavandula pedunculata subsp. lusitanica EOs were predominantly constituted of fenchone and camphor. The antioxidant activity of L. pedunculata subsp. lusitanica EOs was poorer than other Lavandula EOs from Portugal.
The Structure of the Amorphous (GeTe)1–x
(Sb2Te3)
x
System and Implications for its Phase-Change Properties
Authors: Stellhorn Jens R. , Hosokawa Shinya , Kaiser Bernhard , Kimura Koji , Boudet Nathalie , Blanc Nils , Tajiri Hiroo , Kohara Shinji , Pilgrim Wolf-Christian
Published: May 2020

We describe structural features of ternary Ge-Sb-Te glasses based on anomalous X-ray scattering experiments for four different compositions along the pseudo-binary line (GeTe)1–x
(Sb2Te3)
x
for

0
≤
x
≤

2
3

$0\leq x\leq\frac{2}{3}$

, which comprises technologically important phase-change materials. The data are analyzed with reverse Monte Carlo modeling. This way, detailed information on the local environments around all constituent elements are obtained and their evolution with the chemical composition is described. This approach gives a consistent view of the atomic scale structure of the amorphous networks in these compounds. Thereby, it is possible to derive the relationship between the relevant material properties and the determining structural features. In particular, it is shown that the optical contrast related to the phase change is associated with the evolution of the Ge-Te core network.
Comparison between preoperative and post-operative administration of paracetamol, ibuprofen and mefenamic acid for post-extraction pain control
Authors: Kumar Govindaraj Padmanabha , Shu-Lyn Chew , Win Goi Ee , Sie Lee Win , Lakman Nur Fatin Khaleeda binti , Haque Nazmul
Published: May 2020

Pain is a common aftereffect following a dental treatment, especially extractions. Hence, the main aim of the study was to compare the effect of pre-operative and post-operative analgesic usage on post-operative pain management following dental treatment. Moreover, the efficacies of three types of painkillers (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen and Mefenamic Acid) in pain relief were also evaluated. Volunteers (n = 120) who were undergoing extraction participated in this study and were randomly divided into two groups. One group consisting of 60 participants were given pre- and post-operative analgesics while another group (n = 60) received post-operative analgesics only. A visual scale was used to record pain from zero to 56 hours post-operatively at 8-hour intervals. The results showed that patients who were taking analgesics pre-operatively experienced significantly (p = 0.0045) less pain compared to those who had taken post-operative analgesics only However, a lower cumulative number of moderate and severe experiences of post-extraction pain was recorded for the pre- and post-operative analgesic treatment groups as compared to the postoperative only analgesic treatment group; no significant differences were observed. Moreover, no significant differences were observed among the analgesics used in this study as well. On the basis of these results, we conclude that preoperative analgesic usage has a positive impact on postextraction acute pain management.
Trajectories of Picky Eating in Low-Income US Children
Authors: Fernandez Carmen , McCaffery Harlan , Miller Alison L. , Kaciroti Niko , Lumeng Julie C. , Pesch Megan H.
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Picky eating is common, yet little is known about trajectories of picky eating in childhood. Our objectives were to examine trajectories of child picky eating in low-income US children from ages 4 to 9 years and associations of those trajectories with participant characteristics, including child BMI z score (BMIz) and maternal feeding-behavior trajectories.

METHODS:

Mother-child dyads (N = 317) provided anthropometry and reported on picky eating and maternal feeding behaviors via questionnaires at child ages 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9 years. At baseline, mothers reported on demographics and child emotional regulation. Trajectories of picky eating and maternal feeding behaviors were identified by using latent class analysis. Bivariate analyses examined associations of picky-eating trajectory membership with baseline characteristics and maternal feeding-behavior trajectory memberships. A linear mixed model was used to examine the association of BMIz with picky-eating trajectories.

RESULTS:

Three trajectories of picky eating emerged: persistently low (n = 92; 29%), persistently medium (n = 181; 57%), and persistently high (n = 44; 14%). Membership in the high picky-eating trajectory was associated with higher child emotional lability and lower child emotional regulation. Picky eating was associated with restriction (P = .01) and demandingness (P < .001) trajectory memberships, such that low picky eating was associated with low restriction and high picky eating was associated with high demandingness. Medium and high picky-eating trajectories were associated with lower BMIz.

CONCLUSIONS:

Picky eating appears to be traitlike in childhood and may be protective against higher BMIz.
Health Supervision for People With Achondroplasia
Authors: Hoover-Fong Julie , Scott Charles I. , Jones Marilyn C. ,   COMMITTEE ON GENETICS, Chen Emily , Trotter Tracy L. , Berry Susan A. , Burke Leah W. , Geleske Timothy A. , Hamid Rizwan , Hopkin Robert J. , Introne Wendy J. , Lyons Michael J. , Scheuerle Angela , Stoler Joan M.
Published: May 2020

Achondroplasia is the most common short-stature skeletal dysplasia, additionally marked by rhizomelia, macrocephaly, midface hypoplasia, and normal cognition. Potential medical complications associated with achondroplasia include lower extremity long bone bowing, middle-ear dysfunction, obstructive sleep apnea, and, more rarely, cervicomedullary compression, hydrocephalus, thoracolumbar kyphosis, and central sleep apnea. This is the second revision to the original 1995 health supervision guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics for caring for patients with achondroplasia. Although many of the previously published recommendations remain appropriate for contemporary medical care, this document highlights interval advancements in the clinical methods available to monitor for complications associated with achondroplasia. This document is intended to provide guidance for health care providers to help identify individual patients at high risk of developing serious sequelae and to enable intervention before complications develop.
First record of the Paint-billed Crake, Mustelirallus erythrops (Sclater, 1867) (Aves, Rallidae), in Leticia, Amazonas, Colombia
Authors: Gallardo Arley Omar , Carrillo-Chica Esteban
Published: May 2020

We present the first record of Paint-billed Crake, Mustelirallus erythrops (Sclater 1867), for Amazonas, Colombia. We observed six individuals in water channels at the Leticia airport, in Amazonas department, while monitoring the avifauna associated with the airport. Our photographs and recordings represent the first record of the species in the Amazon region in Colombia, and the first documented record of the species in all western Amazonia.
Monitoring Online Learning During COVID-19 Pandemic; Suggested Online Learning Portfolio (COVID-19 OLP)
Authors: Alrefaie Zienab , Hassanien Mohammed , Al-Hayani Abdulmonem
Published: May 2020

This article was migrated. The article was not marked as recommended. Under the unprecedented circumstances of COVID-19 pandemic and as a part of the social distancing measures taken to minimize the spread of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, suspension of in-campus activities was declared in all educational institutions in almost all countries all over the world. Distance learning through different learning management systems and platforms totally replaced fac-to-face learning, and tremendous efforts are being offered by all faculty to continue teaching and assessment of their courses. This opinion aims to highlight the importance of creating a monitoring portfolio that contains appropriate indicators, both quantitative and qualitative, to address the strengths and weaknesses of technology dependent learning from an educational and not only a technical perspective. Documents and data in such portfolios will possibly guarantee evidence-based and purposeful evaluation of the online learning experience and its outcomes during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Parents and caregivers knowledge of school readiness for children admitted to Grade R and Grade 1
Authors: De Witt Patricia Ann , Du Toit Kirsten , Franzsen Denise
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Children with scholastic difficulties, including failure to adapt to or thrive in formal schooling, are frequently referred to occupational therapists. Assessment of these children indicates that many of them have not attained the essential school-readiness skills. Concerns have been raised that parents/caregivers often only consider school-readiness with respect toage rather that other developmental milestones. Research has found that the parents' or caregivers' understanding and abilityto determine their children's development in relation to school-readiness is important if the child is to succeed academically. The purpose of this study was to explore parents' or caregivers' knowledge of school-readiness as per the expectations for formal schooling as defined by the current National Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) and the Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa, (ISASA).Method: This study used a quantitative, descriptive, cross sectional survey research design. Stratified sampling was used to select a sample of parents or caregivers of children admitted to Grade R and Grade 1 level at schools in the Gauteng Province. A self-report questionnaire, specifically designed from the literature was circulated to parents/caregivers by participating schools.Results: There was a 41.2% return rate, but only 180 returned questionnaires could be analysed. The results found that that57.9% of the participants had the correct expectation of school-readiness in ten learning areas within the questionnaire. Participants viewed school-readiness most correctly in the learning areas of Thinking and reasoning (78.9%) and Motor ability (76.8%) while the learning areas of Activities of daily living (ADL) (48.9%), Reading and viewing (48.2%) and Language structure and use (33.7%) were rated with less accuracy, with both under-estimations and over-estimations reported. The mother's level of education was the single demographic factor found to have significance with respect to knowledge of variables related to school-readiness.Conclusion: The parents/caregivers in this study had a fair understanding of some of the variables included in school-readiness, but their ability to determine others, including ADL, was limited. Occupational therapists should be cognisant of the curriculum criteria for school-readiness and should play a role in raising awareness of school-readiness criteria among parents and caregivers wherever possible, to prevent scholastic under-achievement due to lack of school-readiness.
Key words: Awareness of school-readiness, activities of daily living, reading and viewing skills, language structure and use, mother's levelof education
Lingual cyst with respiratory epithelium: The importance of differential diagnosis
Authors: Cialente Fabrizio , De Soccio Giulia , Savastano Vincenzo , Grasso Michele , Dello Spedale Venti Michele , Ralli Massimo , Riminucci Mara , De Vincentiis Marco , Corsi Alessandro , Antonio Minni
Published: May 2020

Lingual cyst with respiratory epithelium (LCRE) is a very rare congenital cyst of the tongue, floor of the mouth, pharynx or hypopharynx with 21 cases reported in the literature (1, 2). Differential diagnosis is very important for patients presenting with lingual cysts, as this may impact treatment and follow-up. LCRE should be included in the different diagnosis of dermoid cyst (3), teratoid cyst (4), epidermoid cyst (5), thyroglossal duct cyst (6), lymphoepithelial cyst (7), mucocele or ranula (8). Each entity has a peculiar histologic presentation, although the clinical aspect may be very similar (1). The dermoid cyst is lined by a keratinized squamous epithelium and contains skin appendages in the cyst. Epidermoid cyst is similar to the dermoid cyst but is characterized by non-keratinized squamous epithelium and has a lumen filled of keratin. Teratoid cyst contains derivatives of the endoderm, ectoderm and/or mesoderm. The thyroglossal duct cyst is usually lined by columnar, stratified squamous epithelium, or an intermediate transition type of epithelium, with the mandatory presence of thyroid tissue in the cyst wall. Lymphoepithelial cyst is identified by the presence of the lymphoid aggregates in the cyst wall. A mucous retention cyst, so called mucocele or ranula, contains mucin and granulation tissue (1).

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Correlation between sensory and instrumental measurements of saltiness in Queso Molido Narinense
Authors: Ramírez-Navas Juan Sebastian , Aristizabal-Ferreira Victor Alexander , Aguirre-Londoño Jessica , Castro-Narváez Sandra Patricia
Published: May 2020

A sensory study was conducted at the Universidad Santiago de Cali with Queso Molido Nariñense. To determine the preferred levels of concentration acceptable by consumers, samples were made with different concentrations of NaCl (C1 = 0.62%, C2 = 0.87%, C3 = 1.05%, C4 = 1.74%, C5 = 2.71%, and C6 = 5.34%). The results show that sample C4 had the highest degree of acceptance, followed by C2, C3, and C5, while C1 and C6 had the lowest acceptance. Consumers were able to distinguish salt differences above 0.27%. It was possible to predict consumer reaction regarding their levels of acceptability and perception using the Sensory-Instrumental correlation. This result showed that either an extremely low or a very high level of concentration of salt in cheese could result in a low acceptance by consumers.
Telecommunications and disaster management:
Authors: Poblet Marta , Fünfgeld Hartmut , McShane Ian
Published: May 2020

This paper offers an overview of participatory approaches to disaster management and climate change adaptation as an introductory framework for the following five papers on the special theme of telecommunications and disaster management. While climate change is considered a societal challenge of global proportions, its impacts on human population and ecosystems take place at the local and regional levels. The geographic coordinates of disasters and emergencies, therefore, call for different location-based strategies that are embedded in their social and ecological context. Affordable, bottom-up, networked telecommunications meeting these conditions can be part of these strategies. The following papers in this issue offer a number of concepts, cases, and potential solutions.
Height, volume and form factor equations for Tectona grandis L.f. in Alta Floresta (MT)
Authors: Morais Adriana Coimbra de , Soares Thelma Shirlen , Cruz Edmilson Santos
Published: May 2020

Studies on allometric models are essential for quantifying the potential of a stand, especially when the objective is to know the wood stock through estimates. This study aimed to select height, volume and artificial form factor equations for a teak stand with data from a sample with 81 trees at 96 months in different diameter classes. The correlation analysis was performed between the variables total height, diameter with and without bark at 1.30 m soil height (dbhcc and dbhsc), total volume with and without bark (VTcc and VTsc) and artificial form factor with and without bark (ffcc and ffsc), using the Pearson coefficient. Six models were evaluated for each category: height, volume and artificial form factor, which were selected by the following criteria: analysis of variance, adjusted coefficient of determination, standard error of estimate, Akaike information criterion and graphical analysis of residues. The selected equations were validated by applying the L & O test. The variables dbhcc, dbhsc, HT, VTcc and VTsc presented significant correlations, ranging from moderate to very strong, the others presented weak correlation. The model that presented the best relation of total height to diameter was the model of Azevedo and contributors. For the total volume with and without bark, Schumacher and Hall model in its logarithmic form was the one that presented the best results. The adjusted models for artificial form factor did not present satisfactory results and, therefore, the use of average form factor is recommended. The mean form factor values by diameter class ranged from 0.4498 to 0.7139 and 0.4480 to 0.7075 for diameter with and without bark, respectively.
Plot size under field conditions to determine soybean agronomic characteristics
Authors: Belmonte Cristiani , Vasconcelos Edmar Soares de , Strenske Andressa , Lorenzetti Eloisa
Published: May 2020

Within the field of performance of agricultural experimentation we have some obstacles related to conducting experiments, the biggest of which is the comparison between treatments with the greatest possible precision, in order to arrive at safe conclusions from the observed results. The objective of this work was to evaluate the relationship between the plot sizes and the stand determination, height at maturation, as well as soybean yield. Three areas were cultivated with soybean for this purpose. In the plant stand determination 18 plot sizes were tested, at the plant height at maturation 14 sizes were tested, and 10 sizes were tested for productivity. The characteristics measurement was performed in triplicate for each plot size, randomly distributed within each area. The characteristic mean for each plot size allowed the adjustment subjective of two regression models, one facing up and one facing down. At the point where the difference among the adjusted models reached the value of the sample standard deviation, the ideal minimum plot size was determined. The evaluation of 14.3 linear m is required in the soybean plants stand determination. It is necessary to quantify 26 plants to guarantee an ideal estimate of the soybean plants at maturity height. It is necessary crop 22 m2 plot to safeguard an ideal estimate of soybean yield.
Relationship between pulmonary function tests, sputum eosinophilia and total serum IgE levels among asthmatic patients in Duhok, Iraq
Authors: Issa Hamdia Yousif , Ramadhan Ali A. , Safo Abdulazeez S. , Al Habib Omar A. M.
Published: May 2020

Background: Bronchial asthma is a disease characterized by reversible airway obstruction, airway inflammation; and hyper-responsiveness. The prevalence of asthma is high, and both its prevalence and burden have increased over the last several decades. The study of inflammatory markers has implications for the appropriate management of this disease. Inflammatory markers has implications for the appropriate management of this disease. Objective of the study is to determine the correlation between asthma severity using pulmonary function tests with sputum eosinophilia and total serum IgE levels.Methods: This case-control study was conducted from March 2017 to September 2018 in the respiratory unit of Azadi general teaching hospital. It included 42 asthmatic patients and 18 healthy subjects. They underwent pulmonary function tests and measurement of total serum IgE levels. Induced sputum was done for asthmatic patients.Results: The age of asthmatic patients ranged from 16-70 years (mean 42±19 years). The asthmatic patient’s female: male ratio was 1.8. Mild asthma was the most common severity group (N=18, 43%) followed by moderate asthma (N=14, 33%) then severe asthma (N=10, 24%). Abnormal sputum eosinophilia (≥3%) was detected in 90% of severe asthma (N=9) compared to 36% in moderate asthma (N=5) and 5.6% in mild asthma (N=1). There was significant statistical association between asthma severity and sputum eosinophilia (p=0.00004). The association between asthma severity and total serum IgE levels was highly significant (p<0.0000) with levels of total serum IgE increasing as the severity of asthma increases.Conclusions: Severe asthma is the least common severity group in this study. Both abnormal sputum eosinophilia and total serum IgE levels are associated with the severity of asthma.
Isolation, identification and antibiotic sensitivity pattern of aerobic bacteria from burn wound patient admitted in tertiary care hospital
Authors: Sah Amit Kumar , Goel Varun , Lagamappagol Siddu
Published: May 2020

Background: Significant burn injuries induce a state of immunosuppression that predisposes patients to infectious complications, thus the rate of nosocomial infections are higher. Rapidly merging multidrug resistant among the various isolate in indoor burn patients are depending on time-line becoming serious threat for managing therapeutically. Objective of this study is to determine the aetiological factor, prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility pattern and emerging nosocomial pathogens.Methods: A prospective study was carried in burn ward of K.L.E.’s Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Belgaum for the period of 1 year. Pair of wound swab were collected from patient having burnt more than 30% (RULE OF NINE) on 3rd day of stay. Sample were collected aseptically from 30 patients and processed by convectional culture and biochemical identification procedures and tested against commonly used antibiotics.Results: 30 patients that fall under inclusive criteria were enrolled in the study. The total burn surface area (TBSA) ranges from 30-82%. The ratio of female to male patient suffering burn wound in our study is 1.5:1. Aetiology of burn is heat (moist/dry) mostly. Depending upon degree of burn, most of patient suffered from 20 degree (superficial to deep) injury. From 30 swab cultures, 42 isolates were identified during the study in which mixed were 66.66% and one is fungi. The most commonly isolated is Pseudomonas aeruginosa (45.24%) then Klebsiella pneumoniae (19.04%), Acinetobacter spp. (14.28%), Staphylococccus aureus (11.90%). Among gram positive isolates, isolates are found to be most resistant to Erythromycin (100%) and Co-trimoxazole (100%) and sensitive to Vancomycin (71.42%). Among gram negative isolates are found to be most resistant to Gentamicin (91.65%), Ciprofloxacin (82.35%), Ceftazidime (82.35%) and sensitive to Meropenem (52.95%), Piperacillin (35.30%), Carbenicillin (29.41%).Conclusions: Pseudomonas aeruginosa was found to be the most common isolate. The nature of microbial wound colonization and flora changes with time should be taken into consideration in empirical antimicrobial therapy.
EDTA contamination: a preanalytical cause for interference in iron and unsaturated iron binding capacity assay
Authors: Debnath Chapal , Savaliya Niral G. , Patel Nikunj R. , Patel Chinka
Published: May 2020

Background: The aim of the study is focussed very keenly at performing RCA (root cause analysis) of those particular sample containing the absurd results of the Serum UIBC (Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity), which was also tallied vigilantly side by side with Serum Iron observed at Clinical Biochemistry laboratory of The New Civil Hospital Surat, Gujarat.Methods: The Absurd value from the samples requested for Serum Iiron and Serum Serum UIBC (Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity) from month of August 2018 till the month of August 2019 were taken in to account for analysis. RCA (root cause analysis) of absurd value for Serum Iron and Serum UIBC (Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity) which were prepared was mainly focused on tallying with Serum Calcium and Serum Potassium result.Results: With the continious and strenous monitoring from the side of the researchers, the researchers had throughly analysed and found that in almost all of those analysed test containing absurd results of Serum Iron and Serum UIBC(Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity) which were some way or the other, associated with absurd results of Serum Calcium along with absurd result of Serum Potassium too from the same samples.Conclusions: The Absurd results of Serum Calcium and Serum Potassium are caused mainly due to pre-analytical errors more likely due to the sample contamination with EDTA (ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid). The contaminated EDTA (ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid) sample cause interference in Serum Iron measurement by producing turbidity in sample and in Serum UIBC (Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity) by chelating Iron.
Study of serum homocysteine level in patients with chronic kidney disease and its association with renal function and serum albumin
Authors: Yadav Vandana , Prakash Vivek , Fiza Bushra , Sinha Maheep
Published: May 2020

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) includes irreversible destruction of nephrons leading to progressive decline in glomerular filtration rate. A preferential defect in Homocysteine disposal could hypothetically occur in CKD and subsequently lead to hyperhomocysteinemia. Understanding the status of Homocysteine and other parameters in CKD is useful in the management of the disease. Objective of the study is to estimate serum Homocysteine in CKD patients and its association with renal function and serum albumin in patients with CKD.Methods: The study design involves hospital based observational comparative study. The study was conducted in Department of Biochemistry in association with Department of Nephrology of Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur between May 2017 to June 2018. 100 diagnosed patients of CKD, visiting the Outpatient Department of Nephrology were enrolled as cases for the study. Patients having cardiovascular disease, Chronic liver disease, Age more than 60 years and pregnant females were excluded from study. The control group consists of 100 age and sex matched healthy individuals.Results: The mean serum creatinine levels of case and control group were 7.50±3.74 mg% and 0.83±0.22 mg% respectively. The mean of serum homocysteine levels of subject group was 27.35±12.52 µmol/L while the mean serum homocysteine levels of control group was 11.06±3.52 µmol/L. The serum homocysteine levels were significantly higher in the CKD patient group. The serum level of albumin in CKD patients and control group were 2.86±0.86 g/dl and 4.10±0.58 g/dl respectively. A positive correlation was found between serum creatinine and serum homocysteine levels. A negative correlation between serum homocysteine and serum albumin was found.Conclusions: Findings of the present study exhibit that serum homocysteine levels are elevated in CKD in comparison to healthy controls and it is positively correlated with serum creatinine level.
Quran recitation therapy reduces the depression levels of hemodialysis patients
Authors: Mashitah Musthika W. , Lenggono Kumoro A.
Published: May 2020

Background: Depression is one of the serious neuropsychiatric complications in CKD patients because of its high prevalence, leading to decline in the quality of life, and the potential to increase the risk of death. The psycho spiritual therapy that potential to be developed for provide support and decrease depression level is Quran recitation therapy. But studies on the effectiveness of Quran recitation therapy are still limited. The aim of this study was to reveal the effect of Quran recitation therapy on depression level of CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis in Hemodialysis Unit of dr. Soepraoen Hospital, Malang, Indonesia.Methods: This study was a quasy-experimental that compared the decrease of depression score level between treatment (n=14) and control group (n=14) before and after Quran recitation therapy. The subjects were CKD patients with hemodialysis who had moderate and severe depression based on screening results using BDI (Beck's Depression Inventory). Treatment group got Quran recitation therapy twice with one week interval. Data was analyzed using independent t-test.Results: The depression score in the treatment group showed a significantly higher reduction than the control group. Decrease level of depression in the treatment group was 17.43±9.00, while in the control group 7±7.19 (p=0.002, p<0.05).Conclusions: This results show that Quran recitation therapy is an effective non-pharmacological therapy to overcome depression in CKD patients undergoing hemodialysis. This study adds the evidence based practice of Quran recitation therapy as Islamic psychotherapy in the clinical setting.