Tukey's Honest Significant Difference Research Articles

Investigation of volatile compounds of Liberica coffee beans fermented at varying degrees of roasting

Liberica coffee (Coffea liberica Bull ex Hiern) has gained worldwide popularity, because it has a unique taste and aroma, and it is able to adapt to peatlands and is more tolerant of disease. Previous studies suggested that fermentation with hydrolytic bacteria could improve flavors, mostly determined by volatile compounds by the roasting process. However, studies about the volatile compounds and their roles in the taste and aroma of this coffee are still limited. This study aimed to investigate volatile compounds from fermented Liberica coffee beans roasted at light roast (150-160°C, 2.2 Mbar, 12 mins); medium roast (175-185°C, 2.2 Mbar, 7.30 mins); and dark roast (200-220°C, 2.2 Mbar, 10 mins). Samples were collected from various fermentation times 0, 4, 8, and 12 hrs and dried. Green beans with a moisture content of 12% were roasted in 3 roast stages. In this work, the extraction of volatile coffee compounds was performed using solid phase microextraction (SPME) and subsequently analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). To determine the significance of fermentation time and degree of coffee roasting in the area, a two-way univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was used, followed by a Tukey's honest significant difference (HSD) test with a statistical significance level of p<0.05. The results showed that a total of 59 of the 130 volatile compounds had a significant difference at different roasting degrees to the area of compounds with a statistical significance level of p<0.05. Those compounds consisted of 5 aldehydes, 18 furans, 4 ketones, 9 phenols, 13 pyrazines, 5 pyridines and 5 pyrroles.

Exploring the Role of EZH2 and BCL2 in Demarcating Oral Verrucous Hyperplasia and Verrucous Carcinoma

Introduction Oral verrucous hyperplasia (OVH) and verrucous carcinoma (OVC) are precursors of oral squamous cell carcinoma exhibiting overlapping histopathological picture which warrants distinction. EZH2 is an epigenetic marker possessing multifaceted function in cellular proliferation, migration, and malignant transformation, whereas BCL2 is an integral part of the antiapoptotic mechanism regulating cellular homeostasis. Aim The aim was to distinguish OVH and OVC by analysis of immunohistochemical expression of EZH2 and BCL2. Material and Methods The study sample consisted of 79 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections of normal oral mucosa (10), OVH (10), oral OVC (27), and oral squamous cell carcinoma (32). Immunohistochemical analysis of EZH2 and BCL2 was done and labeling indices were calculated. Additionally, six histopathological parameters were assessed in OVH and OVC. Statistical analysis was done using Kruskal–Wallis test, Tukey honest significant difference test, and Spearman's correlation. Receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted and sensitivity, specificity, and cutoff score of each marker were calculated. Result and Discussion Labeling indices of EZH2 and BCL2 depicted a gradual incline from normal mucosa to oral squamous cell carcinoma. Significant difference of EZH2 and nonsignificant difference in BCL2 expression between OVH and OVC were noted. Out of the six histopathological parameters, keratin plugging, juxtaepithelial lymphocytic response, and frank endophytic growth yielded a significant difference. EZH2 serves as a superior marker than BCL2 to differentiate OVH and OVC. Juxtaepithelial lymphocytic response can also serve as a histopathological parameter in distinguishing OVH and OVC.

Return to play after head injury in adolescent sports: evaluating football versus other sports.

Increased adolescent sports participation has raised concerns about higher rates of concussions, a prevalent injury among young athletes with potential long-term effects. Discrepancies in concussion recovery and management protocols across various sports underscore a critical issue in youth athletics. This study aimed to examine the relationship between sport type and the number of games missed following a concussion to inform targeted management strategies. Data from 7445 postinjury ImPACT tests for athletes aged 12-22 years, collected from 2009 to 2019, were analyzed across different sports: baseball, basketball, cheerleading, football, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling. The number of days and normalized missed games (NMG), a metric accounting for the different number of games in a season for different sports, were used to evaluate the effect of concussions across different sports. ANOVA, t-tests, and linear regression analyses were performed to model the effect of sport type on games missed in a season while controlling for sex, age, concussion history, diagnosed learning disability (DLD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Multivariable linear regression analysis demonstrated that football participation significantly increased NMG (β 1.681, 95% CI 0.807-2.554; p < 0.001) and days missed (β 1.637, 95% CI 1.044-2.231; p < 0.001) after head injury. Concussion diagnoses were also found to significantly increase NMG (β 2.344, 95% CI 1.629-3.059; p < 0.001) and days missed (β 1.560, 95% CI 1.074-2.045; p < 0.001), as well as history of prior concussion (NMG: β 7.791, 95% CI 7.368-8.215; p < 0.001; days missed: β 5.232, 95% CI 4.945-5.520; p < 0.001). In contrast, factors such as age, sex, DLD, ADHD, and concussions causing loss of consciousness did not significantly affect NMG or days missed. ANOVA with Tukey Honest Significant Difference indicated that compared with football, ice hockey (mean difference [MD] 5.4 days, p = 0.011) and track and field (MD 4.1 days, p = 0.006) were associated with significantly more days being missed after head injury. Conversely, basketball (MD -3.0, p < 0.001) and volleyball (MD -2.6, p = 0.005) were associated with fewer missed games. Adolescents playing football missed fewer days and games after concussion than other contact and noncontact sports, including ice hockey and track and field, raising questions about variations in return-to-play protocols and cultural attitudes within sports. Further research is needed to determine the factors affecting games missed across sport types in adolescent athletics and return-to-play protocols.

Deep Learning Reconstruction for DWIs by EPI and FASE Sequences for Head and Neck Tumors.

Diffusion-weighted images (DWI) obtained by echo-planar imaging (EPI) are frequently degraded by susceptibility artifacts. It has been suggested that DWI obtained by fast advanced spin-echo (FASE) or reconstructed with deep learning reconstruction (DLR) could be useful for image quality improvements. The purpose of this investigation using in vitro and in vivo studies was to determine the influence of sequence difference and of DLR for DWI on image quality, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) evaluation, and differentiation of malignant from benign head and neck tumors. For the in vitro study, a DWI phantom was scanned by FASE and EPI sequences and reconstructed with and without DLR. Each ADC within the phantom for each DWI was then assessed and correlated for each measured ADC and standard value by Spearman's rank correlation analysis. For the in vivo study, DWIs obtained by EPI and FASE sequences were also obtained for head and neck tumor patients. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and ADC were then determined based on ROI measurements, while SNR of tumors and ADC were compared between all DWI data sets by means of Tukey's Honest Significant Difference test. For the in vitro study, all correlations between measured ADC and standard reference were significant and excellent (0.92 ≤ ρ ≤ 0.99, p < 0.0001). For the in vivo study, the SNR of FASE with DLR was significantly higher than that of FASE without DLR (p = 0.02), while ADC values for benign and malignant tumors showed significant differences between each sequence with and without DLR (p < 0.05). In comparison with EPI sequence, FASE sequence and DLR can improve image quality and distortion of DWIs without significantly influencing ADC measurements or differentiation capability of malignant from benign head and neck tumors.

Empowering adult patients with diabetes for health educators' role within their family members: A cross-sectional study.

Patient engagement as partners in diabetes prevention for family members/close relatives is a novel and underexplored approach. This paper aims to assess patients' willingness and confidence in their ability to succeed as health educators for their family members and investigate the influencing factors. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between January 2023 and April 2023. A newly developed and validated self-reported questionnaire, based on the Health Belief Model (HBM) and previous research, was administered to a convenient sample of 134 adult participants diagnosed with diabetes. These participants sought care at primary healthcare clinics at King Abdul-Aziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs in Riyadh and Jeddah (MNGHA). The data was examined using statistical methods including descriptive analysis, ANOVA, Tukey's HSD (Honestly Significant Difference) Post Hoc tests, and Pearson's correlation coefficients. The majority of participants expressed a willingness to assume the role of health educators for their family members (n = 117, 87.31%) and reported a high level of willingness and confidence, as indicated by self-efficacy scores ranging from 12.00 to 25.00, with a mean of 21.12 (SD = 2.76). Participants' willingness to be health educators exhibited positive correlations with their perceptions of diabetes severity and susceptibility (r = .433, p < .01), perceived benefits and barriers (r = .451, p < .01), cues to action (r = .520, p < .01), self-efficacy (r = .789, p < .01), and the total score of the questionnaire (r = .640, p < .01). The majority of participants expressed their willingness to assume the role of health educators for their family members, and a significant portion reported confidence in their capacity to accomplish this objective. Healthcare providers should emphasize the importance of equipping patients with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively convey health messages and serve as health educators within their communities. This expansion of the approach holds the potential to have a significant impact on public health strategies for diabetes prevention.

Growth, Yield, and Stem Quality of Tectona grandis Grown with Different Spacings at Longuza Forest Plantation, Tanzania

Spacing is a silvicultural practice that affects the growth of trees in forest plantations. However, the yield depends on growth, which is determined by spacing. In addition, spacing influences the quantity of the final crop available for harvesting, specifically in forest plantations for sawlog production. Spacing is also used as a management practice to control the quality of trees, as dense stands are expected to have trees with good stem quality. However, little has been done to address the effects of spacing on the growth, yield, and stem quality of Tectona grandis until final harvesting age. Teak plantations in Tanzania are grown at a rotation age of 20 years. Thus, this study aimed to assess the effect of spacing on the growth, yield, and stem quality of 24-year-old T. grandis in a Longuza Forest plantation in Muheza, Tanzania. Data were collected from a spacing trial using a randomized complete block design with three treatments: 2 m × 2 m, 3 × 3 m, and 4 m × 4 m, with three replications. The growth and yield parameters assessed were diameter at breast height (dbh) total tree height, and stem quality. Data were analyzed to obtain the basal area, volume, and mean annual increment. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple comparisons among treatment means were performed using Tukey's honest significant difference test (p-value = 0.05). The results showed that spacing did not significantly affect growth and yield parameters. The stem quality was significantly different in some treatments. The highest dbh and height growth were observed at 4 m× 4 m spacing. The highest values of basal area, volume, and mean annual increment were observed at a 3 m× 3 m spacing. Stem quality differed significantly between the 2 m× 2 m and 4 m× 4 m spacings. Because teak plantations in Tanzania are aimed at sawlog production, it is recommended to continue practising a spacing of 3 m× 3 m, which will ensure a higher mean annual increment with a higher volume at the stand level. In addition, a spacing of 3 m × 3 m ensured a higher percentage of trees with good stem quality.

A discussion and evaluation of statistical procedures used by JIMB authors when comparing means.

The aim of this work was to review and recommend statistical procedures for Journal of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology authors who often compare the effect of several treatments on microorganisms and their functions.

Efecto de Plectranthus amboinicus sobre parámetros de la canal y visceral del pollo Cobb 500

The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of Plectranthus amboinicus in the feed of Cobb 500 broilers, on carcass and visceral parameters, using an open house located at the "Santa Inés" farm of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences of the Technical University of Machala (Ecuador). A Completely Randomized Design was used, where 6 treatments were evaluated, each with 4 Experimental Units of 10 birds·m2, for a total of 240 broilers. Treatments (T) arrangement were as follows: T1, consumed a basal diet with Antibiotic as a Growth Promoter (GPA) (Bacitrazine zinc 15%) and coccidiostat (LERBEK® "Clopidol 20% + Methylbenzoquate 1.67%"), while in T2, T3, T4 and T5 contained the dehydrated ground leaf of P. amboinicus at 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00%, respectively and, finally, T6 or Control, which did not include APC, coccidiostat or dehydrated P. amboinicus in the balanced mixture. The variables evaluated were: antemortem weight, expressed in kg; in percentage, blood, feathers, evisceration, carcass yield, thighs, against–thighs, breast, shoulder, wings, neck, paws, head, heart, liver, gizzard, spleen, intestines and gizzard fat, in relation to antemortem weight; and thickness of abdominal fat in mm. To discriminate the results, an ANOVA was applied prior to assumptions of normality and homogeneity, using Tukey's honest significant difference (HSD) procedure, with a confidence level of 95%. All data were processed using the PROC GLM (General Linear Model) procedure of the SAS statistical package. The results confirm that P. amboinicus does not have a detrimental effect on the carcass or viscera, which shows the margin of safety and potential use in feed.

Sedation with dexmedetomidine-butorphanol or xylazine-butorphanol continuous intravenous infusions during unilateral ovariectomy in standing donkeys.

Intravenous infusions of alpha-2 adrenoceptor sedatives and opioids can potentially facilitate surgery in donkeys while standing. Literature on this subject matter is scant. Evaluation of efficacy of sedation from α2 -adrenoceptors (dexmedetomidine or xylazine) and butorphanol during ovariectomy in standing donkeys. Randomised, masked in vivo experiment. Thirteen female donkeys were sedated with butorphanol (0.05 mg/kg bwt followed by 0.5 mg/kg bwt/h) IV. Concomitantly, 6 of the 13 jennies were sedated with dexmedetomidine 2.5 mcg/kg bwt followed by 2.5 mcg/kg bwt/h (Dex-B group), while seven jennies were sedated with xylazine 0.5 mg/kg bwt followed by 0.5 mg/kg bwt/h (Xyl-B group). A line block of the left flank and an infiltration block around uterine ligament were performed with lidocaine. While the jennies underwent ovariectomies standing, sedation scores and head height above ground were assessed at 2 and 10 min after sedative boluses and every 10 min thereafter. If sedation was too light or too deep, the dose of dexmedetomidine or xylazine was increased or decreased by 25% of the original infusion rate, while butorphanol infusion rate was constant. Physiological parameters were measured. Normally distributed data were compared using the two-sample t test while repeatedly measured data were tested for differences between and within groups using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) by ranks followed by a Wilcoxon test with Tukey Honest Significant Difference for multiple testing. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Both Dex-B and Xyl-B caused moderate to marked sedation adequate for ovariectomy in donkeys. Evident sedation was absent by 60 min of termination of infusions. No adverse physiological effects were observed. Study on ovariectomy cases only, no pharmacokinetic profiling. Dexmedetomidine or xylazine and butorphanol sedation is feasible for ovariectomy in standing donkeys.

Biocontrol Potential of Rhizosphere Fungi Against Pyricularia Oryzae in Ciherang Rice Variety

Blast disease is an important disease of rice caused by Pyricularia oryzae. The use of antagonistic fungi from the rhizosphere of rice plants has the potential to control plant pathogens. One of them is from the genus Aspergillus. This research aims to test the ability of Aspergillus genus fungi in suppressing the intensity of P. oryzae attack on ciherang rice varieties. The research methods were isolation and identification of rhizosphere fungi, propagation of P. oryzae, antagonistic test of rhizosphere fungi against P. oryzae in vivo, and reisolation of fungi from rice plant tissues. This research used a completely randomised design (CRD) consisting of 9 treatments and 3 replications. Data obtained from this research were statistically analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's honest significant difference test at the 5% level The results showed that Aspergillus sp1 and Aspergillus sp2 fungi could significantly reduce the intensity of blast disease attack caused by P. oryzae isolates from Moncongloe and Simbang regions..

NON-CIRCULATION HYDROPONIC LETTUCE (Lactuca sativa L. var. Rincon) PRODUCTION USING COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE NUTRIENT SOLUTION

This study assessed the production performance of lettuce using different simple nutrient addition programs (Yamasaki, MasterBlend, SNAP, Nutrihydro and Hydroplus) compared to organic fertilizer (Biovoltin) with water as a negative control in a Kratky hydroponic system. The crop experiment was conducted at the Institute of Agriculture, Camiguin Polytechnic State College – Catarman Campus, Tangaro, Catarman, Camiguin from January 25, 2022 to March 10, 2022. The study was laid in a Randomized Complete Block Design with seven (7) treatments and three (3) replications at eight plants per treatment. Tukey's Honest Significant Difference (HSD) was used to compare the significant differences between treatment means. Results showed a highly significant differences in the horticultural and root development characteristics, yield parameters, nutrient solution consumption and quality of nutrient solution, and sensory quality except for the survival rate, non-marketable head weight, and pH at 31 DAT. Our results showed that the use of SNAP solution could be used effectively to increase the overall production performance of lettuce. The use of Nutrihydro, Hydroplus, Yamasaki and Masterblend were also promising for its production performance. It can be concluded that the nutrient solution affects the production performance of lettuce in a hydroponic production system. However, the potential use of these various simple nutrient addition programs should be further tested for verification at different growing seasons to elicit substantial conclusions.

Effects of stimulating single acupoint and combination acupoints on diabetic gastroparesis: A randomised controlled trial study

Background and aimThe most effective among the acupoints remains to be determined for treating diabetic gastroparesis (DGP). This study aimed to compare single and combination acupoints for their effectiveness in DGP. Experimental procedureA prospective, patient-assessor-blinded randomised controlled trial was designed to compare the efficacy of 8-week acupuncture at a single acupoint (Zhongwan, CV-12), combination acupoints (Zhongwan, CV-12 and Zusanli, ST-36), and a sham-acupoint, in 99 adults with DGP. The primary clinical outcome was measured using the Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI), while barium meal examination, fasting plasma glucose, the 2-h plasma glucose, short-form health survey (SF-36), and GCSI subscales were performed for evaluating secondary clinical outcomes. These results were analysed by two factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) test, Chi-Square, Fisher Exact, Kruskal–Wallis tests and Tukey's Honest Significant Difference (HSD) test. ResultsAfter randomization, 97 patients completed the study. GCSI scores of all groups decreased during both post-treatment and the follow-up period, they were statistically significant compared to the baseline period (p < 0.01), but there was no significant difference among the groups (p > 0.05) during the post-treatment period. GCSI scores improved more in the combination acupoints group than in the single acupoint group which was better than the sham group after treatment. During the follow-up period, the same trend was observed. ConclusionsAmong patients with DGP, the combination acupoints were more beneficial compared with single and sham acupoints. Trial registration numberNCT02452489.

Surface strain at the cervical area and fracture strength of flared root canals reinforced using a zirconia tube and glass-fiber post

Background/purposeRecently, an effective core build-up system for teeth with flared root canals is needed. This research aimed to evaluate the effect of foundation restorations using a composite resin core with a fiber post reinforced with a zirconia tube for the surface strain at the cervical area and the fracture load of teeth with flared root canals. Materials and methodsBovine teeth were shaped to mimic human premolars with flared root canals and restored using three types of composite resin foundation restorations with each materials described below: a fiber post (FC), a zirconia tube (ZC), a fiber post and zirconia tube (ZFC). Each specimen was restored with a zirconia crown. The surface strains of the specimens at the cervical area and fracture loads were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Tukey's honest significant difference test. ResultsThe surface strains of Groups ZFC and ZC were significantly lower than that of Group FC in the buccal root. The fracture strengths of Groups ZFC and ZC were significantly higher than that of Group FC. The strength of Group ZFC was significantly higher than that of Group ZC. ConclusionThe use of a composite resin core with a zirconia tube for the simulated premolar with flared root canals reduced surface strain at the cervical area and provided higher fracture strength compared to using a composite resin core with a fiber post. And the zirconia tubes provided even higher fracture strength when used with a fiber post.

Evaluation of Surface Roughness in Clear Silicon Fabricated Using Three Different Techniques: An In-vitro Study

Introduction: Anterior composite restorations present many aesthetic challenges for clinicians. Direct veneers provide chairside advantages such as evaluating tooth anatomy, shade selection, and correcting tooth morphology according to the patient’s desire. In today’s world, the use of digitalisation and 3D-printed models has grown. However, limitations of these are unknown and a research gap exists, with surface roughness being a major issue. Aim: To evaluate the surface roughness of clear silicon templates fabricated over 3D-printed models, blue inlay wax and dental stone. Materials and Methods: This in-vitro study utilised both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study was conducted at the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Manubhai Patel Dental College and Hospital, Vadodara, Gujarat, India. The study was completed over three months. A total of 36 surfaces of clear silicone template (Exaclear) were obtained from two blocks each of 3D-printed model, blue inlay wax, and dental stone, measuring 30×10×10 mm. These blocks were divided into six units of 10×5 mm (N=36) and were divided into three groups: 1) 3D-printed model; 2) Blue inlay wax; 3) Dental stone. Surface roughness was evaluated using a surface roughness tester and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Quantitative analysis of surface roughness was done using the surface roughness tester, and qualitative analysis was done using SEM. Statistical analysis was done using the posthoc Tukey Honest Significant Difference (HSD) test and statistical software SPSS Version 20.0. Results: The quantitative analysis showed the highest Roughness average (Ra) value mean±Standard Deviation (SD) for Group 1 (11.97±4.43 μm), followed by Group 3 (2.42±1.07 μm) and Group 2 (0.63±0.86 μm). SEM showed the presence of voids only in Group 1. Conclusion: Surface roughness of clear silicon template fabricated on wax surface is less as compared to templates fabricated on 3-D printed models.

Shaping Ability of Different Rotary and Reciprocating File Systems in Simulated S-Shaped Root Canals.

This study aimed to examine the shaping ability of six rotary and reciprocating file systems, as well as hybrid techniques in simulated S-shaped root canals. A hundred and twenty S-shaped radiopaque thermosetting epoxy resin blocks were grouped according to the system used for biomechanical preparation. Six groups of 15 canals each were prepared using TruNatomy, Procodile, VDW Rotate, Hyflex CM, OneCurve, and WaveOne Gold, respectively. Two additional hybrid (Procodile/Hyflex CM and Procodile/TruNatomy) groups (n=15 each) were added after evaluating the results of individual systems. All canals were enlarged to 0.25 mm apically. Canal transportation, centering ability, diameter increase, and iatrogenic errors were assessed by superimposed pre-operative and post-operative images. AutoCAD was used for data analysis. All groups were statistically compared with analysis of variance and Tukey honest significant difference test (p<0.05). Hyflex CM resulted in the most conservative diameter increase in all thirds (coronal, middle, and apical; p<0.001). Procodile showed the best (p<0.001) centering ability in the coronal and middle thirds, while TruNatomy resulted in the least canal transportation and most centering preparation in the apical third (p<0.001). Hybridisation of Procodile and Hyflex CM produced the least canal transportation and best centering ability in the middle third (p<0.001). No instrument breakage occurred, and no ledge, elbow, or apical zip formation was observed during canal preparation. Hybridisation of Procodile and Hyflex CM showed remarkable results in preserving the canal diameter in all thirds and resulted in the least canal transportation and best centering ability in the middle third of the canal. However, when treatment cost and duration limit the clinical applicability of the hybrid technique, clinicians can use a single file system (Hyflex CM or TruNatomy) since it shows satisfactory results in all parameters when compared with a hybrid system.

Evaluation of organizational culture in enterprises in the Czech Republic using OCAI.

The goal of this work was to use the Organizational Culture Assessment Instrument (OCAI) diagnostic method to find out the existing and preferred organizational culture in companies in the Czech Republic and then to evaluate their dependence on the size of the organizations. Data were collected in 2019-2021 and evaluated using Microsoft Excel and IBM SPSS 24 statistical program, e.g., descriptive statistics tools, one-sample z-test, analysis of variance and post hoc test (Tukey's honest significant difference - HSD). The research was conducted on a sample of 962 companies across the entire republic and fields. The results of the study show that clan culture prevails in the Czech Republic, which was dominant in all six dimensions. Enterprises in the Czech Republic have a mix of organizational cultures in the following order: (1) clan culture (31.72%), (2) hierarchical culture (25.46%), (3) market culture (21.5%), and (4) adhocratic culture (21.28%). However, with regard to the desired cultural mix, this order changes as follows: (1) clan (35.3%), (2) hierarchical (22.91%), (3) adhocratic (22.63%), and (4) market culture (19.17%). Furthermore, it was found that a statistically significant difference was observed in the assessment of organizational culture depending on the size of the organization in the Czech Republic. A limitation of the research could be the unequal number of respondents in 2020 and 2021, which does not allow comparing differences in the time period. This work can serve as a comparative basis of organizational culture with another national culture.

Long-term evaluation of soft-tissue changes after miniscrew-assisted and conventional rapid palatal expansion using voxel-based superimposition of cone-beam computed tomography scans

This study aimed to evaluate the soft-tissue changes in the long-term after miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) and conventional rapid palatal expansion (RPE) appliances compared with a matched control group using voxel-based superimposition of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. A total of 180 CBCTs for 60 patients at 3-time points were evaluated: pretreatment (T1), postexpansion (T2), and posttreatment (T3) for 3 groups: (1) MARPE, (2) RPE, and (3) controls (time-period T1 to T3: MARPE, 2 years 8 months; RPE, 2 years 9 months; control, 2 years 7 months). The voxel-based superimposition technique was used to superimpose the CBCT scans, after which the soft-tissue surfaces were extracted from the superimposed T1-CBCT, T2-CBCT, and T3-CBCT scans. Nine landmarks were identified on the CBCT scans: nasion, A-point, pogonion, right and left alar base, right and left zygoma, and right and left gonion. The coordinates of the 9 parameters were obtained in the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis for the CBCT scans and subjected to statistical analyses. The changes in the soft-tissue surfaces were also evaluated by color-coded maps for short-term (T2) and long-term (T3) changes. The mean changes from T1 to T2 and T1 to T3 were tested against no change within the groups by paired t test, and the mean changes among the 3 groups were compared with analysis of variance F test with Tukey's Honest significant difference used for adjusting P values for multiple testing. In the short term, both MARPE and RPE led to a significant downward movement of pogonion, left gonion, and lateral movement of the right and left alar base compared with controls at T2 (P<0.05). In addition, MARPE led to a significant downward movement of right gonion than controls at T2 (P<0.05). Moreover, RPE led to a significant downward and forward movement of A-point and downward movement of the right and left alar base than controls at T2 (P<0.05). However, in the long-term, there were no significant differences in the soft-tissue changes among the MARPE, RPE, and control groups. MARPE and RPE do not lead to significant soft-tissue changes in the long term when compared with controls.

Evaluation of Physical Properties of Denture Base Resins Containing Silver Nanoparticles of Aloe barbadensis Miller, Morinda citrifolia, and Boesenbergia rotunda and Its Anti-microbial Effect: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction The denture bases fabricated from polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) have some disadvantages, such as surface prone to microbial growth and biofilm accumulation, which contributes to the onset and dissemination of infections among denture wearers. Therefore, the purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the flexural strength, hardness, and antimicrobial effect of denture base resin incorporated with 0.05% and 0.1% silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) of Aloe barbadensis miller (aloe vera), Morinda citrifolia (noni), and Boesenbergia rotunda (finger root). Materials and methods A total of 84 PMMAsamples were used and were divided into three groups. Flexural strength tests were performed on Group 1 PMMAblocks. Group 2 involved hardness testing of PMMAblocks, whereas Group 3 involved antimicrobial activity. Each group was subsequently split into seven subgroups with differing concentrations of AgNPs: Sub Group 1: control (no AgNPs),Sub Group 2: 0.05% aloe vera AgNPs, Sub Group 3: 0.1% aloe vera AgNPs, Sub Group 4: 0.05% noni AgNPs, Sub Group 5: 0.1% of noni AgNPs,Sub Group 6: 0.05%finger root AgNPs, and Sub Group 7: 0.1% finger root AgNPs.The flexural strength was evaluated usinga universal testing machine (Instron 8801). Surface hardness was measured using a Vickers tester (Tukon 1102). For the antimicrobial activity analysis, the samples were incubated in a suitable culture broth containing Candida albicans for 24 hours. Microbial colony count (colony-forming unit (CFU)/mL) was estimated to evaluate the microbial adhesion to the surface of the denture base materials. Statistical analysis The flexural strength, hardness, and CFU between the groups were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by multiple comparisons with Tukey's honest significant difference (HSD) test (α=0.05). The level of statistical significance was determined at p<0.05. Results It was observed that the mean flexural strength was maximum in PMMA incorporated with 0.05% of aloe vera AgNPs and least in PMMA incorporated with 0.1% noni AgNPs. It was seen that a steady loss in flexural strength is observed from 0.05% to 0.1%. The mean hardness was maximum in PMMA incorporated with 0.1% of noni AgNPs and least in PMMA incorporated with 0.05% aloe vera AgNPs. It was also found that the hardness was directly proportional to the number of nanoparticles. With an increase in the weight percentage of nanoparticles, a steady increase in hardness was seen in all the test groups. In our study, the results showed that finger root 0.1% showed the least CFU with a significant reduction of C. albicans adherence; therefore, it indicates higher anti-fungal activity. Aloe vera 0.05% showed the lowest inhibition of C. albicans,suggesting the least anti-fungal activity. Conclusion Within the limitations of this study, It can thus be concluded that the addition of AgNPs incorporated with plant extracts of Aloe barbadensis miller (aloe vera), Morinda citrifolia (noni), and Boesenbergia rotunda (finger root) can alter the flexural strength, hardness, and microbial adhesion of PMMA. In our study, it can be concluded that flexural strength increases with the addition of AgNPs of 0.5% concentration after which a steady loss is seen. However, the hardness and antimicrobial activity increased with an increase in the concentration of AgNPs in all three plant extracts.

Kinetic analysis, mathematical modeling and quality evaluation of mint drying in greenhouse solar dryer

The goal of this study is to evaluate the potential of the Greenhouse Solar Dryer (GSD) for drying the mint leaves and compare it with other traditional drying methods. The top 10 mathematical models introduced by literatures were selected to describe the drying kinetics of mint leaves. The results showed that the average drying time in the GSD is 32 % and 50 % less than the open sun and shade place drying, respectively. Wang and Singh model with R2 = 0.9944, RMSE = 0.02021 and χ2 = 0.00052, logarithmic model with R2 = 0.9918, RMSE = 0.02556 and χ2 = 0.00078, and Henderson-Dabbie with model with R2 = 0.9774, RMSE = 0.04189 and χ2 = 0.00175 were determined as the best models for GSD, sun and shade place drying, respectively. The amount of changes in the color of the dried mint according to the index of total changes (ΔE) was recorded as 0.53 in the shade place, 0.60 in the GSD, and 0.89 in the open sun drying, respectively. The average of dried mint essential oil that was extracted by hydro-distillation method was 0.0254, 0.0237 and 0.0101 for shade place, GSD and open sun drying, respectively. Comparison of the average amount of extracted dried mint essential oil using ANOVA test, two LSD and Tukey HSD (Honestly Significant Difference) tests showed that there is no significant difference between the two treatments of drying in the shade place and GSD, while both of them have a significant difference with the open sun.

GALNT12 promotes fibrosarcoma growth by accelerating YAP1 nuclear localization.

Fibrosarcoma is a highly malignant type of soft tissue sarcoma that currently lacks effective treatment options. Polypeptide N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 12 (GALNT12) belongs to the uridine diphosphate N-acetylgalactosamine gene family, which is involved in numerous biological processes of diseases, such as tumor progression. Its upregulated expression is closely associated with the development of colorectal cancer. However, research on the role of GALNT12 in fibrosarcoma is currently limited. The present study aimed to assess the expression and biological function of GALNT12 in fibrosarcoma. Patient data and tissue samples were collected and public datasets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GSE24369 and GSE21124). Immunofluorescence assays were performed to observe the cellular localization of GALNT12. GALNT12 expression was measured using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Small interfering RNAs were constructed to knock down GALNT12 expression in HT-1080 cells. Cell Counting Kit-8 and EdU assays were used to assess fibrosarcoma cell proliferation. Wound healing and Transwell assays were used to detect migration. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed to identify key pathways. Paired and unpaired Student's t-test, Fisher's exact test and one-way ANOVA (followed by Tukey's Honest Significant Difference test) were used to analyze the data. It was demonstrated that GALNT12 expression was upregulated in both fibrosarcoma cell lines and tissue samples and predicted poor patient prognosis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that high GALNT12 expression levels significantly increased HT-1080 cell proliferation and migration. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that high GALNT12 expression levels were closely associated with the yes1 associated transcriptional regulator (YAP1) signaling pathway. Knockdown of GALNT12 inhibited YAP1 nuclear translocation, which affected activation of key downstream genes including AMOTL2, BIRC5 and CYR61. Therefore, the present study demonstrated that GALNT12 promoted fibrosarcoma progression. GALNT12 could be a potential biomarker for this disease and may potentially provide new ideas for targeted therapy of fibrosarcoma in the future.