bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Existence of fixed point results in orthogonal extended b-metric spaces with application
Authors: Javed Khalil ,   Department of Mathematics and Statistics, International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan, Naeem Muhammad , Din Fahim Ud , Aziz Muhammad Rashid , Abdeljawad Thabet ,   Abdus Salam School of Mathematical Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan,   Department of Mathematics and Sciences, Prince Sultan University, Riyadh-11586, Saudi Arabia,   Department of Medical Research, China Medical University, Taichung-40402, Taiwan
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we investigate the conditions for the existence of fixed-point for generalized contractions in the orthogonal extended b-metric spaces endowed with an arbitrary binary relation. We establish some unique fixed-point theorems. The obtained results generalize and improve many earlier fixed point results. We also provide some nontrivial examples to corroborate our results. As an application, we investigate solution for the system of boundary value problem.
Certain exponential type $ m $-convexity inequalities for fractional integrals with exponential kernels
Authors: Wang Hao ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Science, Hunan City University, Yiyang 413000, China, Wu Zhijuan , Zhang Xiaohong , Chen Shubo
Published: January 2022

By applying exponential type $ m $-convexity, the Hölder inequality and the power mean inequality, this paper is devoted to conclude explicit bounds for the fractional integrals with exponential kernels inequalities, such as right-side Hadamard type, midpoint type, trapezoid type and Dragomir-Agarwal type inequalities. The results of this study are obtained for mappings $ \omega $ where $ \omega $ and $ |\omega'| $ (or $ |\omega'|^q $with $ q\geq 1 $) are exponential type $ m $-convex. Also, the results presented in this article provide generalizations of those given in earlier works.
Controllability of nonlinear ordinary differential equations with non-instantaneous impulses
Authors: Xin Zhen ,   School of Mathematics and Statistics, Yili Normal University, Yining 835000, China, Yang Yuhe , Li Qiaoxia ,   Institute of Applied Mathematics, Yili Normal University, Yining 835000, China
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we consider controllability of the initial value problem with non-instantaneous impulse on ordered Banach spaces. We firstly give a solution expression for initial value problems with non-instantaneous impulses in ordered Banach Spaces by using Schauder fixed point theorem. Sufficient conditions for controllability results are obtained by Krasnoselskii's fixed point theorem in the infinite-dimensional spaces. An example is also given to illustrate the feasibility of our theoretical results.
Periodic solutions of the $ L_p $-Minkowski problem with indefinite weight
Authors: Cheng Zhibo ,   School of Mathematics and Information Science, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo 454003, China, Torres Pedro J. ,   Departamento de Matemática Aplicada, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Granada 18071, Spain
Published: January 2022

We provide a new sufficient condition for the existence of a periodic solution of the singular differential equation

   \begin{document}$ u''+u = \frac{h(t)}{u^\rho}, $\end{document}

which is associated with the planar $ L_p $-Minkowski problem. A similar result is valid for the conformal version of the problem.
DALY Estimation Approaches: Understanding and Using the Incidence-based Approach and the Prevalence-based Approach
Authors: Kim Young-Eun , Jung Yoon-Sun , Ock Minsu , Yoon Seok-Jun
Published: January 2022

Disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) estimates may vary according to factors such as the standard life expectancy, age weighting, time preference and discount rate, calculation of disability weights, and selection of the estimation method. DALY estimation methods are divided into the following 3 approaches: the incidence-based approach, the pure prevalence-based approach, and the hybrid approach. These 3 DALY estimation approaches each reflect different perspectives on the burden of disease using unique characteristics, based on which the selection of a suitable approach may vary by the purpose of the study. The Global Burden of Disease studies, which previously estimated DALYs using the incidence-based approach, switched to using the hybrid approach in 2010, while the National Burden of Disease studies in Korea still mainly apply the incidence-based approach. In order to increase comparability with other international burden of disease studies, more DALY studies using the prevalence-based approach need to be conducted in Korea. However, with the limitations of the hybrid approach in mind, it is necessary to conduct more research using a disease classification system suitable for Korea. Furthermore, more detailed and valid data sources should be established before conducting studies using a broader variety of DALY estimation approaches. This review study will help researchers on burden of disease use an appropriate DALY estimation approach and will contribute to enhancing researchers’ ability to critically interpret burden of disease studies.
Occupational and Sociocultural Temporal Identity Integration: Links to Overall Health for Muslim-Heritage Immigrants to the United States
Authors: Kathawalla Ummul-Kiram , Syed Moin
Published: January 2022

This study examines the association between temporal identity integration, or how identity is integrated across time, and perceived health for new Muslim immigrants to the United States using the publicly available New Immigrant Survey. We examined the content of identity in the occupational and sociocultural domains. These two content areas are important aspects of the immigration transition and are influenced by the context of Islamophobia. We examined the association of changes across the occupational and sociocultural domains from pre-to-post immigration with four different indicators of health (e.g., current health, change in health, emotional health, and physical health) for 444 Muslim-heritage immigrants. Findings suggest overall perceived health of new Muslim immigrants was good. Hypotheses were partially supported where results suggest small, yet significant, associations between changes in occupational status, English use, and similarity of diet with health indicators. The results emphasize the need to further explore other constructs that are relevant to health for Muslim immigrants in a post-9/11 era.
Hume on Theoretical Simplicity
Authors: Qu Hsueh
Published: January 2022

Hume often praises and appeals to the theoretical virtue of simplicity in his philosophy. Yet there has been relatively little scholarship done on Hume’s conception of theoretical simplicity. This paper will look to rectify this lacuna in the literature. In particular, it will look to answer three questions as they relate to Hume’s philosophy. First, what is theoretical simplicity? Second, why should we favour simpler theories over more complex ones? Third, can a theory be too simple, and if so, how?The paper will argue that for Hume, theoretical simplicity concerns the causal explanation of phenomena in terms of the fewest possible causes. Second, simplicity has both epistemic and aesthetic value for Hume. While he does not follow his contemporaries in appealing to God to justify the truth-conduciveness of theoretical simplicity, some of his discussions of this virtue include elements suggestive of a meta-inductive justification of it. In addition, Hume also sees theoretical simplicity as having an intrinsic aesthetic value over and above its epistemic merit. Third, Hume recognises that there are both epistemic and aesthetic tradeoffs involved with theoretica lsimplicity, which might rule against an overly simple theory.
« Grande Famille » et « Acquaintance ». Humain et non-humain chez Reclus et Thoreau
Authors: Guest Bertrand
Published: January 2022

Dans plusieurs de leurs essais, Henry David Thoreau et Élisée Reclus esquissent un rapprochement original entre l’homme et le vivant, préfigurant l’écologie en faisant entrer les animaux et même les plantes dans la réflexion sociale. Végétariens et connaisseurs des cultures primitives, ils pensent le décentrement de l’homme, qui peut choisir de devenir le citoyen d’un cosmos toujours plus large que lui.
Théâtre et éducation humaniste dans les collèges (XVIe et XVIIe siècles)
Authors: Mazouer Charles
Published: January 2022

Est rappelé d’abord ce que représente l’humanisme et sa pénétration dans les collèges, pour définir l’éducation humaniste. Les collèges, où le théâtre est une activité ancienne, continuent de favoriser le théâtre scolaire quand ils sont devenus des foyers de l’humanisme. On s’attarde enfin sur le théâtre des jésuites : règles, visées, répertoire, représentations.
Loss of Ribosomal Protein Paralog Rpl22-like1 Blocks Lymphoid Development without Affecting Protein Synthesis
Authors: Fahl Shawn P , Sertori Robert , Zhang Yong , Contreras Alejandra V , Harris Bryan , Wang Minshi , Perrigoue Jacqueline , Balachandran Siddharth , Kennedy Brian K , Wiest David L
Published: January 2022

Ribosomal proteins are thought to primarily facilitate biogenesis of the ribosome and its ability to synthesize protein. However, in this study, we show that Rpl22-like1 (Rpl22l1) regulates hematopoiesis without affecting ribosome biogenesis or bulk protein synthesis. Conditional loss of murine Rpl22l1 using stage or lineage-restricted Cre drivers impairs development of several hematopoietic lineages. Specifically, Tie2-Cre–mediated ablation of Rpl22l1 in hemogenic endothelium impairs the emergence of embryonic hematopoietic stem cells. Ablation of Rpl22l1 in late fetal liver progenitors impairs the development of B lineage progenitors at the pre-B stage and development of T cells at the CD44−CD25+ double-negative stage. In vivo labeling with O-propargyl-puromycin revealed that protein synthesis at the stages of arrest was not altered, indicating that the ribosome biogenesis and function were not generally compromised. The developmental arrest was associated with p53 activation, suggesting that the arrest may be p53-dependent. Indeed, development of both B and T lymphocytes was rescued by p53 deficiency. p53 induction was not accompanied by DNA damage as indicated by phospho-γH2AX induction or endoplasmic reticulum stress, as measured by phosphorylation of EIF2α, thereby excluding the known likely p53 inducers as causal. Finally, the developmental arrest of T cells was not rescued by elimination of the Rpl22l1 paralog, Rpl22, as we had previously found for the emergence of hematopoietic stem cells. This indicates that Rpl22 and Rpl22l1 play distinct and essential roles in supporting B and T cell development.
“Praying for the Cure”
Authors: Culiberg Luka
Published: January 2022

“Science” and “magic” are not simply two opposing thought processes which have a straightforward relationship, first, on a presumed axis of progress—from magic to science, and second, within the context of a presumed cultural divide—Western “science” vs. Eastern “tradition”. The aim of this paper is to examine in historical perspective the introduction of so-called “Western medicine” in Japan and examine the idea that through this introduction “traditional” Chinese knowledge was simply superseded by “modern” Western science. By looking into the intellectual currents within the field of medicine, specifically in eighteenth-century Japan, and comparing them to those in the West, the article tries to challenge the narrative of “modernity” as a sort of uniquely Western achievement defined by “disenchantment”, “rationalism” and “science”.
Chinese National Health Commission’s Reporting Strategies on COVID-19
Authors: Petrovčič Mateja
Published: January 2022

The coronavirus pandemic has changed our lives dramatically and caused much fear around the world. While social media can contribute to faster information flow, this environment also gives rise to intensifying anxiety. This paper examines the research questions of how the Chinese National Commission (NHC), as the main authority for the health-related issues, presents the news about COVID-19 pandemic to English-speaking readers, which topics related to the coronavirus are stressed most, and what reporting strategies are used in presenting the current events and issues. The results indicate that the authorities are well-informed about the dynamics of public attention, since the same dynamics can be observed in the amount and structure of news. Moreover, from the perspective of reporting strategies we can see that the authorities subtly follow all the criteria that were proposed to allay fears and slow down or break the spiral of negativism with regard to the pandemic.
The Ethical Foundations of Buddhist Cognitive Models
Authors: Ditrich Tamara
Published: January 2022

While issues related to greed and fear are ubiquitous in everyday life, they become particularly evident in crises such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, when societal responses are frequently based on either fear of the disease or craving for the reestablishment of pre-pandemic “normal” life. In this context, a question can be posed whether it is possible to approach and understand these phenomena in other ways, and consequently respond in a different manner. In search for alternative approaches to the problem of human greed and fear, this article investigates their conceptualisations from the perspective of the Theravāda Abhidhamma, an important formulation of ancient Indian Buddhist philosophy. The Abhidhamma analyses and expounds the processes of cognition, using a multivalent and complex structure, comprised of interrelated and interdependent components (dhamma), which are involved in the ever-changing flow of mental and physical phenomena. This article proposes that the entirety of the structural cognitive model of the Abhidhamma is founded on, and permeated by ethics. The components involved in cognitive processes are classified in three ways, as ethical, unethical, or indeterminate; greed and fear are presented as components of unethical mental states, which in turn may lead to actions that are harmful to oneself and society. This Abhidhammic analysis of cognition provides a model, in which a different conceptualisation of greed and fear is presented; it identifies those components and conditions for cognition which allow for an ethical (kusala) stance and consequently ethical actions. The article thus propounds that the knowledge of cognitive models of ancient India can be relevant to the search for new approaches to contemporary ethical challenges, and may contribute to a different understanding of, and responses to, greed and fear.
Savings and investment behaviour of young adults: the role of financial literacy and parental financial behaviour
Authors: Owusu Godfred Matthew Yaw , Ansong Richard , Koomson Theodora Aba Abekah , Addo-Yobo Annice Amoasa
Published: January 2022

This study examines the savings and investment behaviour of young adults, their levels of financial literacy and ascertains whether financial literacy is an important predictor of savings and investment behaviour. Additionally, the study investigates the role of parental financial behaviour on financial literacy, savings and investment behaviour of young people. Using a survey-based approach, we collected data via a questionnaire from a sample of young undergraduate students from a large public university in Ghana. We employed the Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modelling technique to examine the hypothesized relationships of the study. The empirical results of the study based on a sample of 646 students show that financial literacy positively correlates with savings and investment behaviour of young adults. Moreover, we find parental financial behaviour to be an important predictor of the level of financial literacy of young adults and directly impacts on their savings and investment behaviour.
Determinants of Wellbeing among Agroforestry Farmers in Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ojedokun C. A , Akinbile L. A , Ugege B.H , Adebayo D.O
Published: January 2022

A fundamental concern of any government is the wellbeing of its citizens. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the determinants of wellbeing among agroforestry farmers in Edo state, Nigeria. Respondents were selected using a multi-stage sampling procedure to select three forest enclaves based on the number of agroforestry farmers in the enclaves. These enclaves are Sakponba, Ubiaja and Agbede using 50%, 33%and 17% respectively, this percentage was based on the population of the enclave dwellers in each using simple random sampling, and a total of 120 respondents was obtained; data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as multinomial logit and multiple regression. The result reveals that the mean age of the farmers was 45.6years. Majority (85.8 %) were male and 78.3% were married. The mean household size was 5 persons, with 54.2% having household size of between 4 and 6 persons. Majority (84.2%) had formal education. Also, 65.8% had agroforestry farming as primary occupation, with source of income as main reason for involvement in agroforestry and average farm size of 8.4 hectares. Results of multiple regression analysis for relationship between contribution of the independent variable and farmers’ wellbeing reveals a positive and significant relationship between farmers’ level of income; economic and material wellbeing are not signific ant at any alpha level, social wellbeing (r = 0.217, P ≤ 0.10) and psychological wellbeing (r = 0.283, P ≤0.05), respectively. The positive and significant relationship implies that the higher the farmers’ income level, the higher the economic, social and psychological wellbeing of the farmers. The study therefore, recommends that agroforestry support services like incentives, agricultural inputs and provision of soft loans should be provided by government and various NGOs to improve farmers’ income.

Keywords: Determinants, Agroforestry, Wellbeing, Farmers, Edo State
Evaluation of the Downtime of Radiological Equipment in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Sidi Mohammed , Galadanchi Khalifa Kabir
Published: January 2022

Radiology equipment should have minimal downtime and provide outputs of high reliability to ensure prompt and accurate diagnosis. Prolonged downtime affects the moral, productivity of radiographers, radiologists and patients are unduly delayed in accessing radiological services. The study was aimed at evaluating the downtime of the radiological equipment in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. The study design was retrospective conducted in some selected hospitals and a private center in the Kano metropolis from April 2019 to November 2019. An ethical approval to conduct the study was obtained from the Human Research and Ethics Committee of the Kano State Ministry of Health. Purposive sampling method was used in selecting the hospitals and the private center. The model, year of installation and the downtime obtained from the records of all the selected equipment was recorded on the data capture sheet. Center I had the highest frequency of equipment breakdown (5times) while center IV and VI had the lowest frequency of breakdown (once). The equipment with the most prolonged and second most prolonged was found in Center IV (10years, 6months and 7years, 3 months). The equipment with the shortest downtime was found in Center II (1day) and the second shortest was found in Center III and VI (1week) each. X-ray machines had the most prolonged downtime followed by CT. MRI had the shortest downtime. Radiological equipment in Kano metropolis is associated with frequent breakdown and prolonged downtime.

Keywords: Downtime, Radiological Equipment, Kano metropolis
The Influence of Household Size on Growth Pattern of Children Aged 5-12 Years from Kazaure Emirate, Jigawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Gudaji A. , Danborno B.
Published: January 2022

Anthropometry is the measurement of different parts of the body and is an indicator of nutritional and health status. Socio-economic variables such as income, education, birth order, family size, and urbanization are associated with the physical development of children. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of house-hold (family) size on the growth pattern of children aged 5-12 years from Kazaure emirate, Jigawa State, Nigeria. A stadiometer was used to measure height to the nearest 0.1 cm and weight to the nearest 0.5 kg. A non-elastic measuring tape was used for the measurement of head, neck, chest, mid upper arm, hip, waist and calf circumferences to the nearest 0.1cm respectively. A Harpenden skin fold caliper was used for the measurement of biceps and triceps skin fold thicknesses to the nearest 0.1 mm respectively. It was a cross-sectional survey comprising of 863 pupils of Hausa ethnic group randomly selected from public primary schools in Kazaure emirate aged 5 - 12years. Males of household size between1-2, had higher values of HT, WT and body circumferences than females except hip circumference with statistical significant difference p<0.05 while females had higher values of biceps and triceps skinfold thicknesses with statistical difference p<0.05. Males of household size >2, had higher values of HT, WT, BMI and body circumferences than females with statistical difference (p<0.05) while females had higher values of skinfold thickness and HC with statistical difference (p=0.01). Males of household size 1-2, had higher values of cephalofacial dimensions than females with statistical difference (p<0.05) while females had higher values of nasal height and cephalic index than males with statistical difference p<0.05. Males of household size >2, had higher values of cephalofacial dimensions than females with statistical difference p<0.05 while females had higher values of NH and FI with statistical difference p<0.05. Males of household size 1-2 and >2, had higher values of upper and lower limbs dimensions than females with statistical difference p<0.05. In conclusion, it was observed that males grew better than females and, children from small family size had better growth than those from large family size.

Keywords: Age, Household-size, Growth, Kazaure emirate, Nigeria
Evaluation of the Relationship between Covid-19 Pandemic and Research Productivity among Academic and Medical Staff Of Public Universities and Hospitals in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Allahnana Maikudi Kwanza , Ekpenyong Godhas U. , Ofoegbunam Ngozi Violet , Kukwi Isaac Jangson
Published: January 2022

This study evaluates the relationship between COVID-19 pandemic and research productivity among academic and medical staff of public universities and hospitals in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Correlational research design was used in this study. The researchers purposively used 2,543 respondents with 2 public universities and 2 public hospitals as the population of the study. Multistage random sampling technique was used to select 228 respondents with the same number of public universities and hospitals. The instrument used for data collection was COVID-19 Pandemic on Academic and Medical Staff Research Productivity (COVID-19 PAMSRP). The instrument was validated by the experts using e-face validity and the reliability index was 0.93 using Cronbach alpha method. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (r) was used for the analysis. The findings from the study revealed that, there was negative relationship between COVID-19 pandemic on academic and medical staff research productivity in Nasarawa State. By implication, COVID-19 pandemic affects both academic and medical staff. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that both school and medical management should organize conferences, seminars and workshops for staff in such a way that it would improve the levels of their research productivity and services delivery for the safety of lives and Nigerian academics and medical staff should engage in reliable research that will lead to development and innovations for the improvement of education and health sectors.

Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic, research productivity
Farmer’s Adaptive Strategies To Climate Change in Akinyele Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Bamigbade Ismaila Kolade , Ahmed Adamu , Ballama Muhammed , Onuoha Macdonald N
Published: January 2022

Agriculture and climate change are inextricably linked to crop yield, biodiversity, water use, as well as soil health. The research sets the objectives of describing the socioeconomic characteristics of farmers in Akinyele L.G.A of Oyo state, identifying various adaptive measures and the determinants of appropriate climate-change adaptation measures used by farmers in the agricultural communities of the study area. A sample of farmers who have registered with the Federal Ministry of Agricultural, Growth Enhancement Support Scheme (GES) Akinyele chapter were recruited in the research. Questionnaire was used to gather data on the age, gender, education and farming experiences of the farmers. Data was also collected on these adaptive capacity measures: Membership of social organizations, mixed farming, change from crop production to animal rearing, seeking early warning information on climate change among others. Percentages, frequencies were used to analyze the data. The variables were also subjected to regression analysis.70% of the farmers in the study area are male and about the same percentage of them fall within the age range of 31-60 years. Only 33% of the farmers have post- primary education. The result of the regression analysis reveal that planting of improved varieties (0.841,0.001) intensive fertilizer/manure application (0.005,0.421) have positive and significant relationship in determining farmer’s adaptation strategies while contour ridging (1.950, 0.970) has positive but not significant relationship in determining farmer’s adaptation strategies .Change from crop production to animal rearing (-1.766, 0.567) has negative and insignificant relationship in determining farmer’s adaptation strategies

Keywords: Adaptation, Growth Enhancement Support Scheme, Strategies, Climate change, Communities
From Digital Authoritarianism to Platforms’ Leviathan Power: Freedom of expression in the digital age under siege in Africa
Authors: Ayalew Yohannes Eneyew
Published: January 2022

The right to freedom of expression on the internet is under constant siege in Africa due to the actions of States and social media platforms. Many African States have been implementing various authoritarian techniques to trammel freedom of expression in the digital age, including internet shutdowns, repressive national security laws, internet censorship and digital surveillance. Social media companies, on the other hand, exert unbridled power over user-generated contents on their platforms. Their discretionary power to moderate content continues to threaten the right to freedom of expression in Africa. For example, the tug of war between the Nigerian government and Twitter following Twitter’s removal of President Buhari’s speech epitomises how social media platforms are policing free speech in Africa. I argue that African States must end the practice of digital authoritarianism and robustly respect and protect freedom of expression on the internet based on a human rights-based approach in limiting speech. Beyond superficial human rights vocabulary, platforms must also take human rights seriously and ensure that content moderation practices are guided by human rights-based approach.
COMMENT: Adopted Child’s Right of Inheritance from the Family of Origin
Authors: Wondewosen Ewunie
Published: January 2022

The relationship between adopted child and his/her family of adoption and family of origin is regulated under the Revised Family Code Proclamation No. 213/2000. Accordingly, the adopted child shall retain his/her bond with the family of origin in addition to his/her close relationship with the family of adoption by considering him/her, for all purposes, as the child of the adopter.  One of the issues that arises in connection with a child’s relationship with his/her family of origin and family of adoption is the right to inheritance. In particular, the issue arises whether the adopted child can inherit his/her family of origin (through intestate succession) while s/he is deemed to be the child of the adopter and bestowed with all rights and duties including inheritance. The assurance of inheritance right to the adopted child from the estate of his/her family of origin depends upon how much the bond with his/her family of origin is maintained. This article focuses on the legal regime with regard to the adopted child’s relationship with his/her family of origin with particular emphasis on the adopted child’s right to inherit his/her family of origin, in Ethiopia.
LINC-ROR regulates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury via targeting of miR-129-5p/Hook3 axis
Authors: Chen Yan , Guan Qianqian , Feng Xiuyuan , Jiang Xuejun , Xu Guang , Hou Hongwei , Bike
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the underlying mechanism of long intergenic non-protein coding RNA (LINC- ROR) in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury.

Methods: Rat H9C2 cells were used to establish the model of hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). Cell viability was measured using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. The proportion of apoptotic H9C2 cells was evaluated using flow cytometry. Luciferase reporter experiments and RNA pull-down assays were used to determine the relationships among LINC-ROR, miR-129-5p, and hook microtubule tethering protein 3 (Hook3), while QRT-PCR and western blots were used to investigate the relationship between LINC-ROR and the expression and activation of Hook3 and proteins of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Results: LINC-ROR was elevated under H/R stimulation. The viability of H9C2 cells decreased, and cell apoptosis was induced after H/R treatment. These latter effects were abrogated by the down- regulation of LINC-ROR. Luciferase reporter results and RNA pull-down showed that LINC-ROR served as the miR-129-5p sponge, and miR-129-5p was bound to Hook3 RNA directly. Moreover, overexpression of LINC-ROR increased Hook3 protein level by serving as miR-129-5p sponge. Furthermore, the overexpression of LINC-ROR activated PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway by regulating Hook3.

Conclusion: LINC-ROR increases in cardiomyocytes with H/R injury. Down-regulation of LINC-ROR alleviates myocardial I/R injury via miR-129-5p/Hook3 axis. Therefore, LINC-ROR is a potential therapeutic target for myocardial I/R injury.
Oridonin ameliorates depressive-like behaviors induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress in mice via TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Lina , Huang Ziye , Ping Jing , Liu XingYan , Cai Ziyao , Dai Chenghao
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect and mechanism of oridonin in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depressive-like behaviors.

Methods: CUMS was established using 6-week stress stimuli, including feed/water deprivation, night lighting, inverted light/dark cycle, and tail clamping. Depressive behaviors were analyzed using the sucrose preference test, forced swim test (FST), and tail suspension test (TST). Locomotor activity was analyzed using the open field test (OFT) while inflammatory cytokines were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The activation of the TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling pathway was evaluated by western blot.

Results: Sucrose consumption of CUMS-treated mice was significantly decreased, while immobility times of the FST (control vs. CUMS, ~50 to 150 s; p < 0.01) and TST (Control vs. CUMS, ~50 to 130 s; p < 0.01) were increased; oridonin significantly reversed these effects. Spontaneous locomotor activities (crossing, rearing, and grooming) measured in the OFT were decreased after the CUMS procedure, and oridonin increased these activities (p < 0.01 vs. CUMS). Oridonin decreased the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in the hippocampus of CUMS-treated mice and significantly inhibited activation of the TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway induced by CUMS.

Conclusion: Oridonin ameliorates depressive-like behaviors in mice induced by CUMS, partly via TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling pathway. Thus, the findings provide evidence for the potential application of oridonin in depression therapy.
Protective role of Bu-Zhong-Yi-Qi decoction on aristolochic acid-intoxicated zebrafish
Authors: Tsai Jen-Ning , Ding Yu-Ju , Lo Kang-Chieh , Lu Ping-Hsun , Chang Chiung-Fang , Wen Chi-Chung , Wang Bo-Cheng , Yang Ling-Ling , Chen Yau-Hung
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the potential nephroprotective effects of a traditional Chinese medical prescription, Bu-Zhong-Yi-Qi Decoction (BZYQD) in an aristolochic acid (AA)-intoxicated zebrafish model.

Methods: A green fluorescent zebrafish line Tg (wt1b:EGFP) was used, and different exposure protocols were applied. Once a suitable protective concentration of BZYQD was found, antibody staining and real-time PCR methods were applied and the pro-inflammatory gene expressions were determined.

Results: The results showed that low dose (10 ppm) of BZYQD attenuates the AA-induced malformed kidney phenotype. This finding was further substantiated by an examination of the integrity of pronephric tubes in the treated embryos. Pre-treatment with BZYQD suppressed the elevated expressions of pro- inflammatory genes, including tumor necrosis factor-α and myeloperoxidase, induced by AA exposure (1.6 ~ 2.3-fold). This indicates that the nephroprotective effect of BZYQD may be mediated by suppression of pro-inflammatory gene expression. On the other hand, a high dose (500 ppm) of BZYQD caused nephrotoxic effect.

Conclusion: An efficient model to identify AA-protective compounds using zebrafish embryos has been successfully established. Using this strategy, it has been found that BZYQD is nephroprotective in zebrafish embryos, and might have the potential to be applied in humans.
Radiosensitizing effect of polysaccharide in Schisandrae chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. Fruit on ovarian cancer SKOV3 cells
Authors: Wang Cai-Xia , Wan Dan , Qiao Shi-Cong , Xia Min , Duan Ya-Ting
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the radiosensitizing effect of polysaccharide from Schisandrae Chinensis fruit (SCFP) on ovarian cancer SKOV3 cell line.

Methods: The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to evaluate SKOV3 cell viability. Caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax, and Bcl-2 levels in SKOV3 cells were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Furthermore, mRNA expression of caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax and Bcl-2 in SKOV3 cells were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay.

Results: β-Irradiation (10 Gy) did not show obvious inhibitory effects on SKOV3 cell proliferation. However, SCFP at a dose of 1.25, 2.5 and 5 mg/mL significantly enhanced the radiosensitivity of SKOV3 cells to β-irradiation (p < 0.01). Furthermore, SCFP at concentrations of 1.25, 2.5 and 5 mg/mL significantly increased the levels of caspase-3, caspase-9 and Bax in SKOV3 cells, but decreased that of Bcl-2 (p < 0.01). In addition, SCFP combined with β-irradiation up-regulated mRNA expression of caspase-3, caspase-9 and Bax (p < 0.01), but down-regulated that of Bcl-2 in SKOV3 cells (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: SCFP significantly enhances the sensitivity of nasopharyngeal carcinoma SKOV3 cells to β-irradiation. The possible mechanism of sensitization might be correlated to the induction of mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. This research provides a scientific basis for the development of SCFP for the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Paeonol enhances TRAIL-induced apoptosis of human lung cancer cells by upregulating death receptors-4 and 5 via ROS-JNK/ERK-CHOP signaling
Authors: Fan Yanqing , Chen Xiaoyan , Zhang Guizhi
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To study the anti-proliferative potential of paeonol against lung cancer cells, and investigate its mechanism of action.

Methods: Cell viability after paeonol treatment was determined with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl)2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, while paeonol- and TRAIL-mediated apoptosis was assayed using flow cytometry. Western blotting was used to assay the protein expression levels of phosphorylated JNK and ERK1/2, as well as protein expressions of pro-apoptotic factors/death receptors. 2′,7′-Dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA) staining and flow cytometry were used to monitor paeonol-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells.

Results: Paeonol treatment markedly reduced the proliferations of H1975 and BGC823 cells (p < 0.05). In H1975 and BGC823 cells, paeonol/TRAIL combination increased apoptosis to 88.43 and 87.21 %, respectively (p < 0.05). The levels of death receptor 4 (DR4) and death receptor 5 (DR5) were increased significantly by paeonol, relative to the control (p < 0.05). Paeonol also reduced the levels of decoy receptor-1 (DcR1) and decoy receptor-2 (DcR2), and increased the expression of CHOP (p < 0.05). The protein expression levels of survivin, Bcl-2, cFLIP and Bcl-xL were decreased, while protein levels of caspase3, caspase-8 and caspase-9 were upregulated by paeonol. Moreover, paeonol significantly upregulated p-ERK and p-JNK in H1975 and BGC823 cells, and also increased ROS levels, when compared to control (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Paeonol exerts anti-proliferative potential on lung cancer cells through upregulation of death receptors, activation of JNK/ERK-CHOP pathway and generation of ROS. Therefore, paeonol has a therapeutic potential for the management of lung cancer.
Determination of the anti-polo like kinase 1 potential of novel derivatives of thiophene using oncoinformatics approach
Authors: Aljbreen Moaath Khaled , Alrashidi Mohammed Mubarak , Salah Amr , Shaikh Sibhghatulla , Rizvi Syed Mohd Danish
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To explore the anticancer mechanistic aspect of thiophene derivatives via targeting Polo like kinase 1 (PLK1).

Methods: The PLK1 enzyme is primarily expressed in cancer cells, and blocking its active site is one of the plausible ways to target cancer. Thus, in the present study, the thiophene derivatives were tested against PLK1 by molecular docking approach.

Results: Thiophene derivatives, named 8A, 8B and 14, exhibited better interactions with PLK1 active site than the positive control, doxorubicin. Molecular docking experiments revealed that 8A, 8B and 14 interacted efficiently with PLK1, and demonstrated binding energy and inhibition constant scores of ꞌ- 8.02 kcal/mol and 1.33 μMꞌ, ꞌ-8.65 kcal/mol and 0.454 μMꞌ and ꞌ-8.33 kcal/mol and 0.788 μMꞌ, respectively. In contrast, doxorubicin-PLK1 interaction had binding energy of -7.95 kcal/mol and inhibition constant of 2.75 μM.

Conclusion: These results predict that thiophene derivatives 8A, 8B and 14 might exert anticancer effect by inhibiting PLK1 activity. Although, wet lab experiments are required to validate the data, however, these results may pave the way for the development of novel PLK1 inhibitors for anticancer therapy.
Heavy Metal Contamination and Potential Ecological Risks in Surface Sediments along Dar es Salaam Harbour Channel
Authors: Mwakisunga Benard , Pratap Harishchandra B , Machiwa John F , Stephano Flora
Published: January 2022

Investigation of heavy metal contamination along Dar es Salaam harbour channel was carried out in order to determine their current concentrations, sources and potential ecological risks to benthic biota. Sampling was carried out from January to May 2019 and samples analysed using ICP-OES and C-H-N-S analyser. Analysis of heavy metal relationships showed that, Cu, Zn, Cr, As, Ni, Co, Fe, Cd had strong relationships with each other, while Pb only related to Zn. Principal component analysis partitioned metals into two groups; PC1: Ni, Cr, Fe, Co, As, Cu, Cd, and Zn explaining 73.6% variance and PC2: Pb, Zn, and Cd with 13.7% variance. Similarly, Cd, Pb and Zn had severe to very high enrichments (Cd > Pb > Zn) showing serious anthropogenic contamination of these metals in sediments along Dar es Salaam harbour channel. Degree of contamination and potential ecological risks varied from low, moderate, to high; indicating that sediments were considerably contaminated with heavy metals. Levels of contamination varied in space and according to the type of heavy metal Higher contamination and ecological risks were revealed at the harbour area probably due to the observed high concentrations of Cd, Pb and Zn. Monitoring of metals should be emphasized in order to control contaminants release into this area from their sources.

Keywords: Dar es Salaam harbour channel, Heavy metals, Contamination, Sediments, Degree of contamination, Ecological risks
Critical Analysis of Material Consumption and Cost Reduction Techniques for the Apparel Cutting Processes
Authors: Taifa Ismail WR , Twaha Ibrahim , Mwakibambo Mboka A
Published: January 2022

Revenues generation in the garment industry is synonymous with material consumption. This study thus analysed material consumption and cost reduction techniques in the Tanzanian garment industry. The research employed quantitative (experimentation) and qualitative approaches (document review and observation technique) in the apparel cutting processes. Experimental results of material consumption from ten tests averaged efficiency of 78.67%, the wasted pieces (19.2%), and unnoticed waste (2.03%). Essential considerations to reduce material waste include: digitalising the fabric cutting processes; providing workers training; deploying appropriate practices in the cutting room (e.g. pattern engineering and pattern accuracy); considering the quality of the procured fabric and fabric efficiencies relative to different human body shapes and proportions; and considering the separation process rather than extending facings, splitting substantial components, slight reductions in a flare, and seam displacements. The study implies that apparel enterprises can benchmark their actual material consumption circa 50-70% of their total garment manufacturing costs.

Keywords: Material waste, Garment industry, Fabric losses, Cost reduction techniques, Small and medium-sized enterprises.
Design and Performance Analysis of Composite Airfoil Wind Turbine Blade
Authors: Mwanyika Hegespo H , Jande Yusufu AC , Kivevele Thomas
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Small horizontal axis wind turbine rotors with composite airfoil rotor blades were designed and investigated in the present study in order to improve its performance in low wind speed and low Reynolds number (Re) conditions for standalone system. The geometrical and aerodynamic nature of a single airfoil small horizontal axis wind turbine blade curtails efficient energy harnessing of the rotor blade. The use of composite airfoil rotor blade improves energy production but imposes uncertainty in determining an optimal design angle of attack and the off design aerodynamic behaviour of the rotor. This research investigated the effects of two airfoils used at different sections in a composite blade and determined the blade’s optimal design angle of attack for maximum power generation. The wind turbine rotor blades were designed using blade element momentum (BEM) method and modelled by SolidWorks software. The SG6042 and SG6043 airfoils were used for the composite airfoil blades. Five wind turbines were designed with rotor blades of design angles of attack from 3° to 7°. The five wind turbine blades were simulated in computational fluid dynamics to determine the optimal design angle of attack. The composite airfoil wind turbine blade showed improved performance, whereas, the wind power generated ranged from 4966 W to 5258 W and rotor power coefficients ranged from 0.443 to 0.457. The blade with design angle of attack of 6° showed highest performance.

Keywords: composite airfoil, lift-to-drag ratio, pressure coefficient, Reynolds number, design angle of attack.
Risk Factors Associated with Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Elias Felix , Shaban Nyimvua , Rutalebwa Edwin
Published: January 2022

Despite Tanzania's efforts and substantial progress in PMTCT, about 11% new infections were recorded among Tanzanian children in 2019 (UNAIDS 2020a). The objective of this study was to determine the rate of HIV transmission and to identify its risk factors among HIV exposed infants born to HIV-positive mothers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted using retrospective data collected from HIV-positive mothers and their exposed babies who were followed and registered in health facilities in four administrative districts (Ilala, Temeke, Kinondoni, and Ubungo) in Dar es Salaam between January 2016 and December 2019.  To identify risk factors for MTCT, univariate and multivariate Cox Proportional hazard regression analyses were employed. Out of 18705 registered children exposed to HIV, 586 (3.1%) were positive during the study period, while 18119 (96.9%) were negative. In this study, the following factors were increasing the risks of MTCT of HIV infections, not receiving ARV prophylaxis right at birth (aHR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.75–3.26, P < 0.001), unsuppressed maternal viral load (aHR = 6.26, 95% CI: 4.91–7.97, P < 0.001), WHO clinical stage 3–4 (aHR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.44–2.23, P < 0.001), and mixed feeding (aHR = 4.09, 95% CI: 1.80–9.31, P < 0.001). The factors maternal age group 25–34 years (aHR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.29–0.75, P < 0.001), being married/cohabiting (aHR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.23–0.95, P = 0.036), duration on ART for > 12 months (aHR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.45–0.67, P < 0.001), dried blood spot (DBS) tested at 6 weeks (aHR = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.04–0.18, P < 0.001), and exclusive replacement feeding (ERF) (aHR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.17–0.60, P < 0.001) decreased the risk of MTCT of HIV infections. These findings indicated that further work is required to scale up PMTCT approaches to concentrate on viral load suppression, taking ARV prophylaxis immediately at birth, and EBF practice in the first 6 months of life.

Keywords: HIV, PMTCT, risk factors, mother-to-child transmission (MTCT).
Modelling the Impact of Undetected Cases on the Transmission Dynamics of COVID-19
Authors: Rwezaura Herieth
Published: January 2022

The spread of COVID-19 globally has caused negative impacts to the public, making understanding the dynamics of transmission a necessity. Essential factors such as undetected cases, asymptomatic cases, and several non-pharmaceutical interventions have played significant roles in the spreading mechanism of COVID-19 in the human population. It is imperative to understand the significance of these factors in order to determine whether COVID-19 will be eradicated or will continue to persist in the population. A mathematical model is formulated to investigate the impacts of vaccination and several non-pharmaceutical interventions on the dynamics of a COVID-19 accounting for asymptomatic cases, detected (identified) and undetected (unidentified) symptomatic infected cases. Results show that vaccination at higher rate, infection detection and immediate quarantine or isolation of infected individuals have the potential to eradicate COVID-19 from the population. It is recommended that individuals should be encouraged to get vaccinated while the government should encourage (or enforce through persuasive communication) the use of non-pharmaceutical interventions such as face masks wearing.  

Keywords: COVID-19, undetected, vaccination, vaccine efficacy, stability