bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Region-specific Distribution of Olig2-expressing Astrocytes in Adult Mouse Brain and Spinal Cord
Authors: Wang Hui , Wu Zheng , Sambangi Abhijeet , Swaminathan Shreya , Xie Chunming , Chen Gong
Published: September 2020

Olig2 is an important transcription factor essential for the specification and differentiation of oligodendrocytes as well as astrocytes and neurons during developmental stages. However, Olig2 distribution pattern and its relationship among different types of glial cells in the adult central nervous system (CNS) are not well characterized. Here, we systematically examined Olig2 expression pattern in combination with major markers of neurons and glial cells throughout the brain and spinal cord in the adult mice. As expected, Olig2 is universally expressed in oligodendrocytes and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), but not in neurons or microglia. Interestingly, we discover a subpopulation of Olig2-positive astrocytes that are highly enriched in some specific regions including the olfactory bulb, thalamus, midbrain, medulla, and spinal cord. Moreover, OPCs have high expression level of Olig2, whereas oligodendrocytes and astrocytes have similar level of Olig2 expression. Our results suggest that a distinct population of Olig2-positive astrocytes are highly concentrated in discrete regions in the adult CNS. Investigating the functional significance of these Olig2+ astrocytes in both resting state and pathological state of the brain and spinal cord may broaden our understanding on astrocytic heterogeneity and functions.
Neurological Manifestations and Neuroimaging Findings of Acute Intermittent Porphyria Patients
Authors: cao jian , han fei , chen qianlong , you hui , zhu tienan , zhao yongqiang , yu xuezhong , zhu huadong , yang jing
Published: September 2020

Background: Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is an inherited disorder of heme biosynthesis, a porphyric attack can affect the autonomic, peripheral, and central nervous systems. The neurological clinical manifestations of which are incompletely understood. The neuroimaging findings of AIP could be reversible. Methods: In this report, we describe 29 cases of AIP, focusing on neurological clinical features and neuro-imaging. Results: In this study, we showed two cases of PRES, two cases of ODS, two cases of porphyric encephalopathy (cortical laminar necrosis), one case of RESLES. We divided 29 cases into 2 groups ,the blood sodium levels of who with MRI/CT abnormality were significantly lower than which with normal MRI/CT(110±43.15mmol/L and 117±57.02mmol/L, p=0.01).﻿Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, these are the biggest series of MRI in AIP in China, and the only published cases of ODS associated with AIP in China. Hyponatremia may be an important mechanism in porphyric encephalopathy.
The Association Between Leucine and Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) in Different Gender: A Cross-Sectional Study in Chinese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Gao Xiaoqian , Hou Ruiqin , Li Xin , Luo Hui-Huan , Fang Zhong-Ze
Published: September 2020

Background: This study aimed to evaluate how leucine are associated with diabetic nephropathy (DN) in type 2 diabetes(T2D) patients and the gender difference of this association. Methods: We retrieved 1,032 consecutive patients with T2D from the same tertiary care center and extracted clinical information from electronic medical record. Plasma leucine was measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was conducted to examine potential non-linear relationship between leucine with DN and stratified leucine into categories. Logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratio (OR) and confidence interval (CI). Additive interaction was used to estimate the interaction effect between leucine and gender for DN. Results: The results showed a negative linear correlation between leucine and DN. After stratifying all patients by gender, this relationship only remained significant in women (OR:0.57, CI:0.41-0.79), and the relationship was still significant in additive interaction analysis. Conclusion: In conclusion, diabetes patients with high levels of leucine have a lower risk of developing diabetic nephropathy only in female.
Individual behaviours and COVID-19 lockdown exit strategy: a mid-term multidimensional bio-economic modelling approach
Authors: Ferchiou Ahmed , Bornet Remy , Lhermie Guillaume , Raboisson Didier
Published: September 2020

As of mid-2020, eradicating COVID-19 seems not to be an option, at least in the short term. The challenge for policy makers consists of implementing a suitable approach to contain the outbreak and limit extra deaths without exhausting healthcare forces while mitigating the impact on the country's economy and on individuals’ well-being. To better describe the trade-off between the economic, societal and public health dimensions, we developed an integrated bioeconomic optimization approach. We built a discrete age-structured model considering three main populations (youth, adults and seniors) and 8 socio-professional characteristics for the adults. Fifteen lockdown exit strategies were simulated for several options: abrupt or progressive (4 or 8 weeks) lockdown lift followed by total definitive transitory final unlocking. Three values of transmission rate (Tr) were considered to represent individuals’ barrier gesture compliance. Optimization under constraint to find the best combination of scenarios and options was performed on the minimal total cost for production losses due to contracted activities and hospitalization in the short and mid-term, with 3 criteria: mortality, person-days locked and hospital saturation. The results clearly show little difference between the scenarios based on the economic impact or the 3 criteria. This means that policy makers should focus on individuals’ behaviours (represented by the Tr value) more than on trying to optimize the lockdown strategy (defining who is unlocked and who is locked). For a given Tr, the choices of scenarios permit the management of the hospital saturation level with regard to both its intensity and its duration, which remains a key point for public health. The results highlight the need for behavioural or experimental economics to address COVID-19 issues through a better understanding of individual behaviour motivations and the identification of ways to improve biosecurity compliance.
Religion/Spirituality, Moral Injury, and Mental Health among Health Professionals in China
Authors: wang zhizhong , Zaben Faten Al , Koenig Harold.G.
Published: September 2020

Purpose: Moral injury (MI) is prevalent among healthcare professionals, and has been shown in those experiencing traumatic events to be associated with suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, and other adverse mental health outcomes. The present study examines the relationship between religion/ spiritual (R/S) and MI among physicians and nurses in mainland China during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 3,006 physicians and nurses in areas of China where the COVID-19 pandemic was causing high rates of hospitalization and death. The Moral Injury Symptoms Scale-Health Professional (MISS-HP) was administered along with measures of clinician mental health and R/S. Hierarchical linear regression modeling was used to examine the mediating and moderating effect of MI on the relationship between R/S and mental health.Results: Importance of religion was positively correlated with MI symptoms (β=2.41, P<0.01), depressive (β=0.74, P<0.01), and anxiety symptoms (β=0.65, P<0.01) after controlling of multiple demographic variables. MI significantly mediated the relationship between R/S and both depression and anxiety. MI explained 60% (0.46/0.76) of the total association between R/S and depression and 58% (0.38/0.65) of the association with anxiety. No moderating effect was found.Conclusion: Although cross-sectional findings, these results suggest that concern over transgressing moral values during the pandemic may have been a driving factor for negative mental health symptoms among Chinese health professionals for whom religion was important. Future longitudinal studies are needed to determine the causal nature of these relationships.
A Light of Hope? Inequalities in Mental Health and The Peace Agreement in Colombia: A Decomposition Analysis
Authors: Leon-Giraldo Sebastian , Casas Germán , Cuervo-Sánchez Juan Sebastián , González-Uribe Catalina , Olmos Antonio , Kreif Noemi , Suhrcke Marc , Bernal Oscar , Moreno-Serra Rodrigo
Published: September 2020

Background: The present study seeks to evaluate the evolution of mental health inequalities in the department of Meta after the signing of Colombia's Peace Agreement in 2016 with the FARC guerrilla group. Using a validated survey instrument composed of 20 questions (‘SRQ-20’), we measure changes in mental health inequalities from 2014, before the signing of the agreement, to 2018, after the signing of the agreement. We then decompose the changes in inequalities to establish which socioeconomic factors explain differences over time.Methods: Our study uses information from the Conflicto, Salud y Paz (CONPAS) survey conducted in the department of Meta, Colombia, in 1,309 households in 2018, with retrospective information for 2014. To measure inequalities, we calculate the concentration indices for both years. Through the Oaxaca change decomposition method, we disaggregate changes in mental health inequalities into its underlying factors. This method allows us to explain the relationship between changes in mental health inequalities and reduced inequality in several sociodemographic factors. It also identifies the extent to which these factors help explain the changes in mental health inequalities. Results: Mental health inequalities in Meta were reduced almost by half from 2014 to 2018. In 2018, the population at the lower and middle socioeconomic levels had fewer chances of experiencing mental health disorders in comparison to 2014. The reduction in mental health differences is mostly attributed to reductions in the influence of certain sociodemographic variables, such as residence in rural zones and conflict-affected territories, working in the informal sector, or experiencing internal displacement. However, even though mental health inequalities have diminished, overall mental health outcomes have worsened in these years. Conclusions: The reduction in the contribution of conflict-related variables for explaining mental health inequalities could mean that the negative consequences of conflict on mental health have started to diminish in the short run after the peace agreement. Nevertheless, conflict and the presence of other socioeconomic inequalities still contribute to persistent adverse mental health outcomes in the overall population. Thus, public policy should be oriented towards improving mental health care services in these territories, given the post-accord context.
Bacteria Responsible for Nitrate-dependent Antimonite Oxidation in Antimony-contaminated Paddy Soil Revealed by the Combination of DNA-SIP and Metagenomics
Authors: Zhang Miaomiao , Li Zhe , Häggblom Max M. , Young Lily , Li Fangbai , He Zijun , Lu Guimei , Xu Rui , Sun Xiaoxu , Qiu Lang , Sun Weimin
Published: September 2020

Background: Antimonite (Sb(III)) oxidation (SbO) can decrease the toxicity of antimony (Sb) and its uptake into plants (e.g., rice), thus serving an ecological role in bioremediation of Sb contamination. In some anoxic environments, Sb(III) can be oxidized coupled with nitrate as the electron acceptor. Here we investigate the potential for nitrate-dependent SbO in Sb contaminated rice paddies and identify nitrate-dependent Sb(III)-oxidizing bacteria (SbOB) using stable isotope probing (SIP) coupled with amplicon and shotgun metagenomic sequencing.Results: Anaerobic SbO was exclusively observed in the paddy soil amended with both Sb(III) and NO3-, whereas no apparent SbO was detected in the soil amended with Sb(III) only. The increasing abundance of the arsenite oxidase (aioA) gene suggests that nitrate-dependent SbO was catalysed by microorganisms harbouring the aioA gene. After 60-day DNA-SIP incubation, obvious shift in the aioA gene to heavy DNA fractions only in the treatment amended with 13C-NaHCO3, Sb(III) and NO3- suggested the incorporation of 13C by nitrate-dependent SbOB. Accordingly, DNA-SIP identified a number of putative nitrate-dependent SbOB in the paddy soil, including Azoarcus, Azospira and Chelativorans. Metagenomic analysis further revealed that they contained aioA gene and genes involved in denitrification and carbon fixation, supporting their capability for nitrate-dependent SbO.Conclusions: These observations in this study suggested the occurrence of nitrate-dependent SbO in paddy soils. A number of putative nitrate-dependent SbOB (i.e., Azoarcus, Azospira and Chelativorans) were reported here, which expands our current knowledge regarding the diversity of nitrate-dependent SbOB. In addition, this study provides a proof of concept using DNA-SIP to identify nitrate-dependent SbOB.
Modulation of Actin Network and Tau Phosphorylation by HDAC6 ZnF UBP  Domain
Authors: Balmik Balmik Ankur , Sonawane Shweta Kishor , Chinnathambi Subashchandrabose
Published: September 2020

Microtubule-associated protein Tau undergoes aggregation in Alzheimer`s disease and a group of other related diseases collectively known as Tauopathies. In AD, Tau forms aggregates, which are deposited intracellularly as neurofibrillary tangles. HDAC6 plays an important role in aggresome formation where it recruits polyubiquitinated aggregates to the motor protein dynein. Here, we have studied the effect of HDAC6 ZnF UBP on Tau phosphorylation, ApoE localization, GSK-3β regulation and cytoskeletal organization in neuronal cells by immunocytochemistry. Immunocytochemistry reveals that HDAC6 ZnF UBP can modulate Tau phosphorylation and actin cytoskeleton organization when the cells are exposed to the domain. HDAC6 ZnF UBP treatment to cells does not affect their viability and resulted in enhanced neurite extension and formation of structures similar to podosomes, lamellipodia and podonuts suggesting its role in actin re-organization. Also, HDAC6 treatment showed increased nuclear localization of ApoE and tubulin localization in microtubule organizing centre (MTOC). Our studies suggest the regulatory role of this domain in different aspects of neurodegenerative diseases.
Rare Multiple Organ Failure Caused by Tumor Lysis and Subsequent Fatal Sepsis After Novel Salvaged Chemotherapy of Rituximab in a Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Guan Xiaojun , He Fangkai , Wang Yang , Wang Jiajia , Su Nan , Liu Chao , Zhu Yehan
Published: September 2020

Background: Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) ranges from mild asymptomatic electrolyte derangement to severe organ dysfunction, is rarely associated with diffuse large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Standard chemotherapy of DLBCL is usually for clinical stable patients, however, it is still unclear for those in critical care situation with organ dysfunction. Case presentation: Here, we presented a rare case of aggressive bcl-2 and -myc double-positive DLBCL patient, 59-year-old, male, who rapidly progressed to severe multiple organ failure because of spontaneous TLS, and especially hepatic failure is very uncommon. Although the comprehensive treatments inclusive of early glucocorticoid usage, a stent implantation in superior vena cava, pleural and pericardial puncture drainage, anti-shock, non-invasive ventilator support, continuous renal replacement treatment (CRRT), plasma exchange and antibiotics alleviated or inverted the multiple organ failure, the patient was worsened to septic shock and died on the 12th day after new salvage chemotherapy regime with rituximab and cyclophosphamide under CRRT protection. Conclusions: The current case demonstrated a useful treatment framework to this kind of patient. We should cautiously give glucocorticoid to the patient suspected of lymphoma with high tumor burden. The comprehensive treatments for organ function supporting, especially CRRT, play a crucial role in the recovery of multiple organ failure. In addition, the optimal time and regimen choosing of rescue chemotherapy in severe DLBCL patients still remains a long way to define.
Stochastic analysis using public data for forecasting of epidemic spreading of the novel coronavirus disease
Authors: Lima Leonardo dos Santos
Published: September 2020

We propose a stochastic model for epidemic spreading of the novel coronavirus based in data supported by the Brazilian health agencies. Furthermore, we performed an analysis using the Fokker-Planck equation estimating the novel cases in the day t as the mean half-width of the distribution of novel cases P(N,t). Our results display that the model based in the Itô diffusion adjusts well to the results supplied by health Brazilian agencies due to large uncertain in the official data and to the low number of tests realized in the population.
A dose-dependent association of total cholesterol with all-cause and specific mortality: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: He Guo-dong , Liu Xiao-cong , Liu Lin , Yu Yu-ling , Chen Chao-lei , Huang Jia-yi , Lo Kenneth , Huang Yu-qing , Feng Ying-qing
Published: September 2020

Background: The link between total cholesterol (TC) and all-cause and specific mortality has not been elucidated. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the effect of TC levels on all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer mortality.Methods: All data analyzed were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2014. The relationship between levels of TC and mortality was determined through Cox proportional hazard regression analysis coupled with multivariable adjustments. Two-piecewise linear regression model and Cox models with penalized splines were applied to explore non-linear and irregular shape relationships. Kaplan-Meier survival curve and subgroup analyses were conducted.Results: The sample studied comprised 17853 men and 18922 women, categorized as 27927 adults aged 18–65 years and 8848 adults more than 65 years old. A total of 4441 deaths were recorded. All-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality showed U-curve associations with nadir at 213 mg/dL, 200 mg/dL, and 218mg/dL after adjusting for confounding variables in the restricted cubic spline analysis. HRs of all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality was particularly negatively related to TC levels in the lower range <200 mg/dL, especially in the range <120 mg/dL (HR 1.95; 95% CI 1.59, 2.38, HR 1.78; 95% CI 1.16, 2.72, HR 2.18; 95% CI 1.46, 3.25, respectively). The lowest cumulative survival rate was recorded in the lowest TC level group.Conclusions: A U-curve association of TC level with all-cause, cancer, and CVD mortality in the American population was observed, suggesting that too low or too high serum total cholesterol levels might correlate with adverse outcomes.
Vascular and cerebral benefits of Tofacitinib in rheumatoid arthritis: evidence in rat adjuvant-induced arthritis
Authors: Totoson Perle , Quirié Aurore , Pedard Martin , Cefis Marina , Pringent-Tessier Anne , Prati Clément , Tournier Maude , Marie Christine , Demougeot Celine
Published: September 2020

Background: To determine vascular and cerebral effects of Tofacitinib in the adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model in rat.Methods: At the first signs of arthritis (day 10-12 post-immunization), Tofacitinib (10 mg/kg s.c., twice daily) or vehicle were administered for 3 weeks in AIA rats. A group of non AIA served as controls. Body weights and arthritis scores were daily monitored. Anhedonia was explored with the saccharin preference test at day 4 (preclinical), day 11 (early) and day 28 (acute arthritis) post-immunization. At the end of the treatment, aorta, brain and blood were collected for analysis of endothelial function using acetylcholine (Ach)-induced relaxation, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein levels in the hippocampus (Hip) and prefrontal cortex (PFC), and IL-1β, TNFα, IL-17A plasma levels. Radiographic score of paws was also assessed. Results: As compared to vehicle, Tofacitinib reduced body weight loss, arthritis and radiographic scores (p<0.001) but did not change plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Tofacitinib fully prevented AIA-associated reduction in Ach-induced relaxation. As compared to controls, vehicle-treated AIA exhibited low BDNF levels in PFC (p<0.001) and anhedonia at all times examined (p<0.05). Tofacinib did not improve anhedonia, but resulted in elevation of BDNF levels both in PFC (p<0.05) and Hip (p<0.001). A positive correlation was observed between brain BDNF levels and endothelial function (p<0.05).Conclusion: Restoration of normal endothelial function and elevation of brain BDNF levels by Tofacitinib in AIA rats support a positive effect of this new antirheumatic drug on cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric comorbidities of rheumatoid arthritis.
The impact of COVID-19 on complementary and alternative medicine providers: a cross-sectional survey in Norway 
Authors: Stub Trine , C.Jong Miek , Kristoffersen Agnete E.
Published: September 2020

Background: The Norwegian authorities decided on a nationwide lockdown to prevent spread of the COVID-19 virus. The lockdown had huge socioeconomic consequences for the society. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) providers in Norway.Method: This cross-sectional survey analyzed data from a self-administrated questionnaire. A total of 581 CAM providers completed the questionnaire, which was designed to describe consequences for CAM providers and their clinical practice after the nationwide lockdown. Between group differences were analyzed using chi-square, ANOVA and Fisher’s exact test. Significance level was defined as p < 0.05 without adjustment for multiple comparisons.Result: During the nationwide lockdown of Norway, 38.4% of respondents were able to provide CAM treatment to their patients. Of those, the majority (96.4%) had reorganized their clinical practice in accordance with COVID-19 hygiene regulations, offered video consultations (57.4%) or telephone consultations (46.6%). To manage financially during the lockdown, half of the providers spent their savings (48.7%). More than one third (35.1%) was supported by their partner, and 26.7% received compensation from the Norwegian state. A total of 26.3% of the CAM providers had other paid work that provided them with income. Nearly a quarter (18.6%) borrowed money from friends and family, changed their loan terms, or took out new bank loans. The majority (62.7%) expressed uncertainty about the future of their practice. CAM providers who had reorganized their practice to online consultations were more optimistic. Conclusion: The impact of COVID-19 on CAM providers was considerable. It adversely affected their clinical practice, financial situation, and view on their future practice. To ensure that the health needs of the Norwegian population regarding CAM use are met during pandemic times like COVID-19, it is recommended to support and train CAM providers in the development of online CAM services, as well as efficient implementation of infection prevention and control measures.
Lernen mit Medien – (k)ein nachhaltiger Ansatz für die Kompetenzentwicklung Lehrender im Kontext der Erwachsenenbildung/Weiterbildung?!
Authors: Schöb Sabine
Published: September 2020

Der Einsatz digitaler Medien zur Kompetenzentwicklung Lehrender in der Erwachsenenbildung/Weiterbildung stellt einen vielversprechenden Ansatz dar, um den Bedarfen und Voraussetzungen der Zielgruppe zu begegnen, eine Förderung ihres professionellen Handelns zu unterstützen sowie das Train-the-Trainer Angebot für Lehrende zu bereichern. Gleichzeitig bedürfen digitale Lernangebote einer (medien-)didaktisch überzeugenden Gestaltung, welche die Basis für eine Nutzung und Implementation des Angebots in der Weiterbildungspraxis bildet. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt ein im Zuge des Design-Based Research Ansatzes passgenau konzipiertes digitales Lernangebot für Lehrende in der Erwachsenenbildung/Weiterbildung vor und hinterfragt dieses anhand einer formativen Evaluationsstudie in seiner Akzeptanz und Lernwirkung unter Berücksichtigung der motivationalen Lernvoraussetzungen. Ein nachgewiesener zeitstabiler Lerneffekt des Angebots bei Lehrenden sowie die Identifikation von Erfolgsfaktoren für eine ressourcenschonende Integrationsmöglichkeit der Lernumgebung als Plug-and-Play-Angebot in die Praxis, sprechen für die Qualität des Konzepts und bereiten die Basis für dessen Nutzung und Multiplikation im Kontext von Weiterbildungsangeboten für Lehrende.
Columns
Authors: Ellis Richard
Published: September 2020

This column is a listing of articles that have appeared recently in the literature of educational communication and technology.
A Review of The Red Dress (Film)
Authors: Murray Shirley
Published: September 2020

None
In My Opinion: Why We Need a Canadian Educational Television Channel
Authors: Starcher Duane B.
Published: September 2020

None
A Review of The Information Revolution and its Implications for Canada
Authors: Lewis Richard F.
Published: September 2020

None
Memorial University's ETV Centre Goes Public
Authors: Starcher Duane B.
Published: September 2020

None
1983: World Communication Year
Authors: Markell H. D.
Published: September 2020

None
Learning and Technology
Authors: Sindell Peter
Published: September 2020

None
Fiction: Alligator
Authors: Michener James
Published: September 2020

None
Telidon: Its Potential and Problems for Traditional and Distance Education.
Authors: Moore G. A. B.
Published: September 2020

None
Standards: Aiming Towards Tomorrow
Authors: MacRae Lorne
Published: September 2020

None
School Library Resource Centres and the New Information Technology: The International Perspective
Authors: Rich Tom
Published: September 2020

None
Controlling the Dynamical Spread of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in a Population
Authors: Olajide Akanni John
Published: September 2020

In the paper, a model governed by a system of ordinary differential equations was considered; the whole population was divided into Susceptible individuals (S), Exposed individuals (E), Infected individuals (I), Quarantined individuals (Q) and Recovered individuals (R). The well-posedness of the model was investigated by the theory of positivity and boundedness. Analytically, the equilibrium solutions were examined. A key threshold which measures the potential spread of the Coronavirus in the population is derived using the next generation method. Bifurcation analysis and global stability of the model were carried out using centre manifold theory and Lyapunov functions respectively. The effects of some parameters such as Progression rate of exposed class to infectious class, Effective contact rate, Modification parameter, Quarantine rate of infectious class, Recovery rate of infectious class and Recovery rate of quarantined class on R0 were explored through sensitivity analysis. Numerical simulations were carried out to support the theoretical results, to reduce the burden of COVID 19 disease in the population and significant in the spread of it in the population.
The Trend Distribution and Temporal Pattern Analysis of COVID-19 Pandemic using GIS framework in Malaysia
Authors: Yahya Mohd Sahrul Syukri , Safian Edie Ezwan Mohd , Burhan Burhaida
Published: September 2020

Currently, the most severe infectious disease was the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in all countries in 2019 and 2020. At the end of December 2019, in Wuhan, China, there was an international cluster of cases involving Novel Coronavirus pneumonia (SARS-COV-2). The worldwide number of active cases and deaths is rising, especially in the top countries such as the United States (U.S), Brazil, and India. In Malaysia, these cases of COVID-19 have significantly decreased the number of active infections and deaths in May and June 2020. COVID-19 has had a significant effect on human life, socio-economic growth, and public relation. It is aimed at senior groups and individuals with various health conditions such as cancer, respiratory problems, diabetes, hypertension, and heart-related issues. The World Health Organization (WHO) has formally declared COVID-19 as an international emergency case. As a result, Kuala Lumpur was the most affected state in Malaysia as of 12 July 2020, followed by Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, and Johor. Regardless of the infection chain ratio, the favorable cases in each affected state of Malaysia are rising every day. The Malaysian Government attempted to split the infection chain ratio affected by COVID-19 via the lockdown definition. The research aims to use GIS software to analyze COVID-19's spatial trend distribution and temporal pattern analysis for human health. Geographic information systems (GIS) technologies have played a significant role in spatial information, spatial tracking of confirmed cases, active case, death, and discharge cases, and predicting the magnitude of the spread. Monitoring, evaluating, and planning using geospatial analysis are essential for controlling the spread of COVID-19 within the country.
Stochastic Modelling and Simulation of SIR Model for COVID-2019 Epidemic Outbreak in India
Authors: P Umamaheswari
Published: September 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emerged in Wuhan city, China, at the end of December 2019. As of July 26, 2020, 16258353 COVID-19 cases were confirmed worldwide, including  649848 deaths. The spread of COVID-19 is currently very high. Under the classical SIR (Susceptible-Infected-Recovered) model, epidemiological data for India up to 26th July 2020 were used to forecast the COVID-19 outbreak. For controlling the spreading of the virus, we have to prepare for precaution and futuristic calculation for infection spreading. We used the data from the COVID-2019 Outbreak of India on July 26th, 2020 in this report. In these results, for the initial level of experimental intent, we used 16291331 susceptible cases, 481248 infectious cases, and 910298 rewards / removed cases. Through the aid of the SIR model, data on a wide range of infectious diseases have been analyzed.  SIR model is one of the most effective models which can predict the spreading rate of the virus. We have validated the model with the current spreading rate with this SIR model. The findings of the SIR model can be used to forecast transmission and avoid the outbreak of COVID-2019 in India. The results of the study will shed light on understanding the outbreak patterns and indicate those regions' epidemiological points. Finally, from this study, we have found that the outbreak of the COVID-2019 epidemic in India will be at its peak on 09 August 2020 and after that, it will work slowly and on the verge of ending in the second or third week of November 2020.
Molecular Mechanism of Coronaviruses (COVID-19) and Diagnostic Approaches
Authors: Jeena Lalit Mohan , Singh Nidhi , Tempe Anjali
Published: September 2020

An acute respiratory disease is rampantly spreading in population worldwide caused by a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2, also known as COVID-19). The COVID-19 is a major source of disaster in the 21thcentury. It has spread throughout China and is received as a pandemic worldwide. To date (18th May 2020), a total of 4,827,272patients are infected and more than 3,17,174confirmed deaths have been reported with 6.57% fatality rate. Several research investigations have identified that COVID-19 belongs to ?-coronavirus family and has a highly identical genomic structure to bat coronavirus. The novel coronavirus uses the same receptor, ACE-2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) as that for SARS-CoV, and mainly spreads through the respiratory tract. As per WHO, symptoms include shortness of breath especially in the lower respiratory tract, sore, throat, cough, headaches, and fever. However, the specific drugs required to prevent/treat an attack is a major need at this current point of time. In this regard, we conducted a systematic review on coronavirus to cover the molecular mechanism of viral entry and replication, which provides the basis of future management of COVID-19.
Disruption to the Skills Ecosystem of India in the Wake of the New Normal Emerging Post ‘COVID-19’
Authors: Sherino Mini , Bhatta N M K
Published: September 2020

Every new scenario that has unfolded in the canvas of time has brought with it,an impetusforsociety’s progress. In this perspective, the COVID-19 pandemic, (believed to be caused by an organismof 65-125 nm) has dramatically churned the times we are into today. Businesses, Economies and systems worldwide are undergoing unprecedented dynamic changes towards ‘Adaptability’ and adoption of newer models that could increase their pace of recovery in the wake of the new normal. The Skills ecosystem in India has been no different. Ever since the inception of the Skill India movement in the early 2015, this system has evolved into a vibrant integrated mission encompassing both Academic and vocational skill training courses.In this article we present to you what has been trending in the world of IT/ITeS skills and how the new normal is expected to emerge and progress from here.
COVID-19: Finding the End Day
Authors: Chatterjee Sandip
Published: September 2020

The study has pivoted on finding a methodology to forecast the end day of the menace of Coronavirus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) or such pandemic that the planet faces on and often, challenging the core of the civilization. This model has resort to an indirect method to find the end day. As the pandemic grows exponentially, the rate of growth of total cases over previous day reduces asymptotically with herd immunity gaining strength to strength. Instead of finding flat head of the exponential expansion path, the model has looked into close to zero value of daily growth rate to find the end day. ARIMA (p,q,r) model for data smoothing and exponential trend line methodology adopted to find the end day. COVID-19 data for 63 days from March 20, 2020 to May 21, 2020 for seven countries and the globe explored with the proposed methodology. The study has projected toll of COVID-19 using a continuous constant exponential growth/decay model. The end day of the pandemic is projected for the globe when the expansion of the disease would be 0.01% per day. The methodology can be improved further by inclusion of other parameters of social and virology implications.
Purification and Characterization of Mannanase from Aspergillus awamori for Fruit Juice Clarification
Authors: Ikram ul Haq  , Shakoor Sheeba , Nawaz Ali , Arshad Yesra , Mukhtar Hamid
Published: September 2020

Background:

Fruit juice clarification is a challenging aspect of beverage industry which
needs to be addressed for economical and hygienic production of fruit juices.

Objective:

Current study is focused on the complete purification, characterization and thermodynamic
analysis of an efficient mannanase enzyme to analyze its applicability in biological clarification
fruit juice.

Methods:

Mannanase production using Aspergillus awamori IIB037 in a 25 L stirred fermenter at
pre optimized reaction conditions was carried out. Enzyme purification was carried out via series
of steps. Characterization of enzyme along with kinetics and thermodynamic studies was conducted.
Purified and characterized enzyme was assessed for its applicability in fruit juice clarification
through clarification experiments on fresh apple juice.

Results:

Purification fold of 3.98 was obtained along with 86.80% purification yield of mannanase
with specific activity of 158.16 U/mg. The molecular size of purified enzyme was determined as
66 kDa. The enzyme depicted 56% residual activity at 60°C after 8 hrs. Thermodynamic studies of
an enzyme revealed enthalpy of activation (ΔH) and activation energy (Ea) as 30.53KJ/mol,
27.76KJ/mol, respectively. The enzyme activity increased in the presence of ß-mercaptoethanol surprisingly.
On the other hand, methyl alcohol, ethanol, Hg2+ and Cu2+ inhibited enzyme activity. The
enzyme showed Km and Vmax values of 11.07 mM and 19.08 μM min-1 for Locust Bean Gum (LBG)
under optimal conditions. Juice treated with mannanase showed decrease in absorbance and increase
in reducing sugar content.

Conclusion:

The current study demonstrated that mannanase from Aspergillus awamori in its purified
form has significant characteristics to be employed industrially for juice clarification.
Diabetic Theory in Anti-Alzheimer’s Drug Research and Development. Part 2: Therapeutic Potential of cAMP-Specific Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
Authors: Jankowska Agnieszka , Pawłowski Maciej , Chłoń-Rzepa Grażyna
Published: September 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent age-related neurodegenerative
disease that affects the cognition, behavior, and daily activities of individuals. Studies indicate
that this disease is characterized by several pathological mechanisms, including the accumulation
of amyloid-beta peptide, hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, impairment of cholinergic
neurotransmission, and increase in inflammatory responses within the central nervous
system. Chronic neuroinflammation associated with AD is closely related to disturbances in
metabolic processes, including insulin release and glucose metabolism. As AD is also called
type III diabetes, diverse compounds having antidiabetic effects have been investigated as potential
drugs for its symptomatic and disease-modifying treatment. In addition to insulin and
oral antidiabetic drugs, scientific attention has been paid to cyclic-3′,5′-adenosine monophosphate
(cAMP)-specific phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors that can modulate the concentration
of glucose and related hormones and exert beneficial effects on memory, mood, and emotional
processing. In this review, we present the most recent reports focusing on the involvement
of cAMP-specific PDE4, PDE7, and PDE8 in glycemic and inflammatory response controls
as well as the potential utility of the PDE inhibitors in the treatment of AD. Besides the
results of in vitro and in vivo studies, the review also presents recent reports from clinical trials.
Toxicological Aspects of Carbon Nanotubes, Fullerenes and Graphenes
Authors: Shah Pranav , Lalan Manisha , Jani Deepti
Published: September 2020

Nanomedicines exhibit unbelievable capability in overcoming the hurdles faced in biological applications.
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene-family nanomaterials and fullerenes are a class of engineered nanoparticles
that have emerged as a new option for possible use in drug/gene delivery for life-threatening diseases.
Their adaptability to pharmaceutical applications has opened new vistas for biomedical applications. Successful
applications of this family of engineered nanoparticles in various fields may not support their use in medicine
due to inconsistent data on toxicity as well as the lack of a centralized toxicity database. Inconsistent toxicological
studies and lack of mechanistic understanding have been the reasons for limited understanding of their toxicological
aspects. These nanoparticles, when underivatized or pristine, are considered as safe, however less reactive.
The derivatized forms or functionalization changes their chemistry significantly to modify their biological
effects including toxicity. They can cause acute and long term injuries in tissues by penetration through the
the blood-air barrier, blood-alveolus barrier, blood-brain barrier, and blood-placenta barrier. and by accumulating
in the lung, liver, and spleen . The toxicological effects are manifested through inflammatory response,
DNA damage, apoptosis, autophagy and necrosis. Other factors that largely influence the toxicity of carbon nanotubes,
graphenes and fullerenes are the concentration, functionalization, dimensional and surface topographical
factors. Thus, a better understanding of the toxicity profile of CNTs, graphene-family nanomaterials and
fullerenes in humans, animals and the environment is of significant importance, to improve their biological safety,
to facilitate their wide biological application and for the successful commercial application. The exploration
of appropriate cell lines to investigate specific receptors and intracellular targets as well as chronic toxicity beyond
the proof-of-concept is required.
PTML Multi-Label Algorithms: Models, Software, and Applications
Authors: Ortega-Tenezaca Bernabe , Quevedo-Tumailli Viviana , Bediaga Harbil , Collados Jon , Arrasate Sonia , Madariaga Gotzon , Munteanu Cristian R , Cordeiro M. Natália D.S. , González-Díaz Humbert
Published: September 2020

By combining Machine Learning (ML) methods with Perturbation Theory (PT), it is possible
to develop predictive models for a variety of response targets. Such combination often known as
Perturbation Theory Machine Learning (PTML) modeling comprises a set of techniques that can handle
various physical, and chemical properties of different organisms, complex biological or material
systems under multiple input conditions. In so doing, these techniques effectively integrate a manifold
of diverse chemical and biological data into a single computational framework that can then be applied
for screening lead chemicals as well as to find clues for improving the targeted response(s).
PTML models have thus been extremely helpful in drug or material design efforts and found to be
predictive and applicable across a broad space of systems. After a brief outline of the applied methodology,
this work reviews the different uses of PTML in Medicinal Chemistry, as well as in other
applications. Finally, we cover the development of software available nowadays for setting up PTML
models from large datasets.
The Pathogenesis Mechanism, Structure Properties, Potential Drugs and Therapeutic Nanoparticles against the Small Oligomers of Amyloid-β
Authors: Wang Ke , Na Liu , Duan Mojie
Published: September 2020

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of
people in the world. The abnormal aggregation of amyloid β protein (Aβ) is regarded as the key event in
AD onset. Meanwhile, the Aβ oligomers are believed to be the most toxic species of Aβ. Recent studies
show that the Aβ dimers, which are the smallest form of Aβ oligomers, also have the neurotoxicity in
the absence of other oligomers in physiological conditions. In this review, we focus on the pathogenesis,
structure and potential therapeutic molecules against small Aβ oligomers, as well as the nanoparticles
(NPs) in the treatment of AD. In this review, we firstly focus on the pathogenic mechanism of Aβ oligomers,
especially the Aβ dimers. The toxicity of Aβ dimer or oligomers, which attributes to the interactions
with various receptors and the disruption of membrane or intracellular environments, were introduced.
Then the structure properties of Aβ dimers and oligomers are summarized. Although some structural
information such as the secondary structure content is characterized by experimental technologies,
detailed structures are still absent. Following that, the small molecules targeting Aβ dimers or oligomers
are collected; nevertheless, all of these ligands have failed to come into the market due to the rising controversy
of the Aβ-related “amyloid cascade hypothesis”. At last, the recent progress about the nanoparticles
as the potential drugs or the drug delivery for the Aβ oligomers are present.
Amino Acid and Peptide-Based Liquid Crystals: An Overview
Authors: Shanker Govindaswamy , Paul Bishwajit , Ganjiwale Anjali
Published: September 2020

The role of amino acids and peptides has found remarkable usage in both living systems and nonliving
materials, which have enabled its utility by virtue of crafting molecular architectures through covalent
bonds and non-covalent interactions. In material chemistry, the role of peptides in Liquid Crystals (LCs) is profound,
especially in the rapid construction of supramolecular hierarchical networks. The importance of LCs for a
variety of societal needs leads to the synthesis of innumerable LCs by conventional mesogenic strategy and nonconventional
molecular design principles. For example, electronic appliances, including flat panel TV displays,
electronic notebooks, digital cameras, domestic devices, use LCs as an integral component for such applications.
In addition, LCs are useful in biological systems, including stem cell research, sensors for bacteria, virus, and
proteins. These accomplishments are possible mostly due to the non-conventional molecular design principles for
crafting LCs using smaller molecular motifs. The usage of amino acids and peptides in LCs facilitates many intrinsic
characteristics, including side-chain diversity, chirality, directionality, reversibility, electro-optical, columnar
axis, stimuli-responsive complex molecular architectures. The next essential criteria for any LCs design
for useful applications are room temperature LC (RT-LC); therefore, the quest for such LCs system remains
highly significant. Evidently, there are around half a million liquid crystalline molecules; only a handful of RTLCs
has been found, as there is no simple, precise strategy or molecular design principles to obtain RT-LC systems.
The smaller molecular motifs of amino acids and linear peptides as a structural part of mesogenic molecules
led to many LC phases with properties, including lyotropic, thermotropic, and its applications in different
realms. Therefore, this review serves as a compilation of Small Peptide-based LCs (SPLCs) exhibiting lyotropic
and thermotropic phases with applications in the recent advancements.
Impact of Obesity on Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Remiss
Authors: Shah Asma Farooq , Chawla Isha , Goel Kirti , Gollen Rakesh , Singh Randhir
Published: September 2020

The prevalence of obesity around the globe is increasing at such an alarming rate that
WHO designated obesity as a major unattended public health problem worldwide. Obesity is associated
with a greater risk of excessive fat related metabolic and endocrinal diseases related to a different
set of illnesses and disabilities, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, kidney
diseases, sleep apnea, arthritis, lung diseases and sexual disorders. Obesity is found to be associated
with male and female sexual dysfunctions and several studies have indicated a positive correlation
between obesity and sexual dysfunction among both males and females. The relationship between
male obesity and sexual dysfunction has been widely discussed, whereas very little emphasis is laid
on relationship between obesity and female sexual dysfunctions. Sexual dysfunctions are common
and affects 20-50% of obese women. Particularly, female sexual dysfunction is a multi-factorial
problem, including organic and psychological aspects involved. These disorders not only affect
physical health of women, but to a greater extent, mental health is also affected. Considering this point
of view, present review emphasizes the impact of obesity on female sexual dysfunctions.