bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crowdsourced Data Relevance Analysis for Crowd-assisted Flood Disaster Management
Authors: Kaushalye N. A. V. O. , Koswatte S.
Published: July 2021

The recent climate changes have significantly increased the number and intensity of natural disasters around the world. This includes floods that cause a great deal of damage to properties, and more importantly, to the lives of the people. The reporting of current disasters has changed from official media to public reporters through social media and crowdsourcing technologies which have guaranteed the availability and up-to-date nature of the reported data. However, crowdsourced data (CSD) are often questioned due to issues in reliability and relevancy, heterogeneity or bias, bad structure, and un-professionalism. As a result of this, disaster responders are reluctant to use such data for their critical decision making actions. Using Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Geographic Information Retrieval (GIR) techniques, this study evaluated the quality of CSD, focusing on the thematic relevance. The study examined a proof of concept on relevance assessment based on an improved set of user queries utilizing crowdsourced messages from the 2011 Australian floods (Ushahidi Crowd-map). The findings show that the approach was effective in generating a thematically rated list of CSD messages for post-flood disaster managers to confidently take actions. The study's future work will consider thematic and geographic specificities and semantic context of the modified queries. Moreover, it is expected to test the approach with similar geospatial crowd-map data, and finally to check the possibility of integrating the derived information with authoritative datasets such as Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDIs).
A transnational marine ecological observatory in the Adriatic Sea to harmonize a fragmented approach to monitoring and conservation
Authors: Manea Elisabetta , Bergami Caterina , Bongiorni Lucia , Capotondi Lucilla , De Maio Elisabeth , Oggioni Alessandro , Pugnetti Alessandra
Published: July 2021

The design and establishment of Marine Ecological Observatories (MEOs) are fostered at the European level. MEOs should adopt a holistic view, integrating and harmonizing long-term oceanographic and ecological research and monitoring, and increasing conservation strategies effectiveness according to the ecological connectivity concept. The data and knowledge collected and made available through MEOs should inform policies dealing with conservation and management of the marine environment. We present and discuss these issues in the Adriatic Sea context, where the transnational ecological observatory “ECOAdS” is under development in the framework of the Interreg Italy-Croatia project ECOSS (Observing System in the Adriatic Sea: oceanographic observations for biodiversity), which aims to support Natura 2000 network implementation and cross-border coordination of multiple monitoring initiatives. We analyse the main EU directives that deal with marine conservation, notably the Habitats and Birds directives, the Water Framework Directive, and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, as they are the primary instruments that can guide the development of the observatory while strengthening cooperation at the basin scale. We bring out the synergies and discrepancies among these legal instruments, and build on them ECOAdS as a monitoring platform that may respond and contribute to their requirements, boosting the synergies and overcoming the weaknesses. Finally, we provide some hints for the further development of this transnational MEO as a collector of the existing monitoring efforts aimed at harmonizing their approaches and incorporating the ecological connectivity to foster an ecosystem-based approach to conservation management.
Cytotoxic effects of Thai noni juice product ethanolic extracts against cholangiocarcinoma cell lines
Authors: Prompipak Jeerati , Senawong Thanaset , Sripa Banchob , Swatsitang Prasan , Wongphakham Paweena , Senawong Gulsiri
Published: July 2021

Objective:

To investigate the cytotoxic activity and molecular mechanism(s) of two Thai noni juice (TNJ) products ethanolic extracts against cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) cell lines and non-cancerous cells, and to explore phenolic acid compositions of TNJ products.

Methods:

Phenolic acid profiles of TNJ Chiangrai (TNJ-Cr) and TNJ Buasri (TNJ-Bs) ethanolic extracts were determined by HPLC. The cytotoxicity of TNJ ethanolic extracts on cancer and non-cancerous cells was evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and trypan blue assays. Mechanism(s) underlying the anti-CCA activity of TNJ ethanolic extracts were determined by cell cycle, apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation assays. The expression levels of proteins involved in apoptosis and ERK signaling were evaluated by Western blot analysis.

Results:

Phenolic acid profiles of both TNJ ethanolic extracts showed that the p-hydroxybenzoic, vanillic, and protocatechuic acids were the major phenolic acids in TNJ products. Cytotoxicity assays revealed that the TNJ-Cr and TNJ-Bs ethanolic extracts reduced viability of CCA cell lines through induction of apoptosis by up-regulation of p53 and Bax proapoptotic proteins. Both TNJ ethanolic extracts promoted ROS generation by activating the ERK1/2 signaling in well-differentiated CCA cells KKU-213B. Meanwhile, TNJ ethanolic extracts did not induce ROS production in poorly differentiated CCA cells KKU-100. Both TNJ ethanolic extracts showed no toxicity to human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Conclusions:

TNJ ethanolic extracts could inhibit CCA cell proliferation by inducing ROS generation and apoptosis and may be applicable for combination therapies in CCA treatment.
Preoperative computed tomographic-guided percutaneous coil localization of pulmonary nodules
Authors: Han Xujian , Li Zhenjia , Gu Hui , Shi Honglu , Dou Weitao , Wang Ximing
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, accuracy, and safety of computed tomographic (CT)-guided coil localization before video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.

Methods:

One hundred and eighty-four consecutive patients with 200 pulmonary nodules who underwent CT-guided percutaneous coil localization before thoracoscopic surgery were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Success rate for localization, complication rates, CT findings, and pathological results of the lesions, as well as the data related to surgery were all recorded and analyzed.

Results:

All 184 patients with 200 lesions completed localization and resection. The success rate of the coil localization on lesion baseline was 99.0% (198/200) and 98.9% (182/184) on patient baseline. The number of wedge resection, segmental resection, and lobectomy were 179 (89.5%), 19 (9.5%), and 2 (1.0%), respectively. The malignancy rates in a lesion-based analysis were 83.5% (91.1% in ground-glass nodules, 91.4% in part-solid nodules, and 37.9% in solid nodules). No serious complications occurred in all localization procedures.

Conclusion:

Preoperative CT-guided percutaneous coil localization is a safe and effective method to facilitate high success rates for both wedge and segmental resection for peripheral pulmonary nodules.
EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors alone or in combination with chemotherapy for non-small-cell lung cancer with EGFR mutations
Authors: Zhu Cui-Min , Lian Xiang-Yao , Zhang Hong-Yan , Bai Lu , Yun Wen-Jing , Zhao Ru-Han , Li Qing-Shan
Published: July 2021

Objective:

The objective of this study was to perform a meta-analysis comparing the efficiency of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) with chemotherapy to EGFR TKI treatment alone in patients with EGFR mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Materials and Methods:

Following keyword queries in databases and identification of randomized control trials for inclusion, hazard ratios (HRs), relative risks (RRs), and associated 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were determined.

Results:

Ten randomized controlled trials involving 1354 participants with NSCLC were evaluated. We found that a combined approach of chemotherapy with EGFR TKIs significantly improved overall survival (OS) compared with EGFR TKI alone in our patient cohort (HR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.31–0.72). In addition, a higher overall response rate (ORR) was found for patients who received combined treatment compared to chemotherapy alone (RR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.51-3.12). Furthermore, concomitant use of chemotherapy with TKIs significantly improved the progression-free survival (PFS) when compared to the use of TKIs alone (HR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.49-0.95). Moreover, there was a higher ORR among patients who received combined treatment as compared to those who were managed using TKIs only (RR=1.17, 95%CI=1.09-1.25).

Conclusion:

Our meta-analysis shows that EGFR TKIs with chemotherapy confer better OS and ORR compared to either treatment alone, similarly, the combined treatment showed better PFS and ORR profiles than the use of TKI alone.
Prevention and Control of Cardiovascular Diseases in India Needs a Strengthened and Well-Functioning Primary Health Care System
Authors: Lahariya Chandrakant , Mishra Surabhi , Daniel Roy Arokiam , Bhadoria Ajeet Singh , Mishra Deepak Kumar , Smith Robert Dean
Published: July 2021

This article reviews the ongoing initiatives to prevent and control cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India and analyses the role of primary health care (PHC) system. The authors note that in last 2 decades, there has been increasing policy recognition of the challenges posed by CVDs and NCDs in India. The review of ongoing government health program in India indicate that while the interventions to tackle CVDs and NCD have also been launched and scaled up, a majority of these initiatives continue to be delivered through district or sub-district levels. Though, there has been plans, the scale up through PHC system is at early stage only. There is sufficient scientific evidence that the effective prevention and control of CVDs need accessible health services and a series of public health interventions through strengthened PHC system. There are learnings from COVID-19 pandemic response in India (in areas such as private sector engagement, effective enforcement of health regulation, community engagement and the use of tele-consultations), which can be useful. The authors conclude that a strengthened and well-functioning PHC system can ensure increased access to CVD and NCD services. As India plans to scale up ongoing health programs and launch a few new initiatives, the learnings from the past, documented in this paper, could be useful. These steps would help India to accelerate progress towards universal health coverage.
Effect of sitagliptin on proteinuria in patients with type 2 diabetes – A renoprotective effect of sitagliptin
Authors: Narimani Rouhollah , Kachuei Ali , Rezvanian Hassan , Feizi Awat , Poorpoone Mohadese
Published: July 2021

Background:

Diabetic nephropathy, the leading cause of chronic renal failure, is related to diabetes poor control. Some antihyperglycemic drugs like dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors have shown to prevent diabetic nephropathy. This study endeavors to assess the effect of sitagliptin on proteinuria in Iranian type 2 diabetics.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 90 type 2 diabetic patients aged between 30 and 80 years with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) <8.5 and normotensive under treatment of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers were randomly assigned into two groups. One group received 50 mg sitagliptin per day and the other group received placebo. The two groups were evaluated for albumin–creatinine ratio (ACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at baseline and 3 months later.

Results:

Eighty-four patients, 38 (45%) males and 46 (55%) females, were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 58.47 ± 7.33. The two groups did not differ in baseline characteristics. After 3 months, in the sitagliptin group, HbA1C (7.89 ± 0.39 to 7.37 ± 0.61, P < 0.001), fasting blood sugar (FBS) (136.86 ± 22.51 to 130.53, P = 0.04), systolic blood pressure (BP) (124.39 ± 9.70 mmHg to 119.32 ± 9 mmHg), diastolic BP (76.44 ± 6.53 to 73.13 ± 5.34 mmHg, P < 0.001), and ACR (314.40 ± 414.64 to 293.49 ± 400.71, P < 0.001) were significantly decreased and eGFR was significantly increased (73.35 ± 10.73 to 76.86 ± 10.59, P < 0.001) at 3 months compared to the placebo group. ACR reduction was higher in macroalbuminuric (Ma) patients compared to microalbuminuric (Mi) patients in the sitagliptin group (−30.25 ± 35.57 vs. −11.12 ± 14.01, P = 0.02). No significant difference was observed between the Ma and Mi subgroups regarding changes in eGFR. Univariate analysis showed that changes in ACR correlated with FBS (r = 0.68, P < 0.0001), insulin (r = 0.44, P = 0.03), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (r = 0.69, P < 0.0001) and did not correlate with eGFR and BP.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, sitagliptin is a well-tolerated drug that improves glycemic control, lowers BP, and reduces urinary albumin excretion, especially in Ma type 2 diabetic patients.
Partidismo: ¿el verdadero aliado de las fake news? Un análisis comparativo del efecto sobre la creencia y la divulgación
Authors: Baptista João Pedro , Correia Elisete , Gradim Anabela , Piñeiro-Naval Valeriano
Published: July 2021

Introducción: Tras la recomposición del parlamento portugués con la aparición de la derecha radical, este estudio explora la influencia de la orientación partidista en la creencia y difusión de fake news. Metodología: Se recurrió a una muestra exploratoria (N = 712), cuyos participantes fueron expuestos a 20 titulares políticamente sesgados (pro-derecha y pro-izquierda): la mitad fake news y la otra mitad noticias verdaderas. Los participantes evaluaron su credibilidad y voluntad de compartirlas en las redes sociales. Resultados: Es más probable que los partidarios de derecha crean y compartan fake news compatibles. Esta tendencia se verificó en todos los parámetros de medición del partidismo —(1) intención de voto, (2) simpatía partidaria y (3) autoubicación en la escala I-D—, en contraste con lo revelado con los partidistas de izquierda. Discusión y conclusiones:  Solo los partidarios de derecha muestran una tendencia a creer más en fake news que favorecen su orientación. No ocurre lo mismo con los individuos de izquierdas. Sin embargo, es más probable que tanto los partidarios de derecha como de izquierda compartan contenido sesgado. Creemos que las personas con identidad de partido de derecha pueden estar más expuestas a la desinformación en Portugal, ya que la mayoría de los sitios de desinformación buscan esta audiencia específica.
Genetic Characteristics of Brown Trout Salmo trutta from the Tatra National Park in Poland
Authors: Kuciński Marcin , Kozłowski Jacek , Kozłowski Krzysztof , Dynowski Piotr , Fopp-Bayat Dorota , Ocalewicz Konrad
Published: July 2021

In the present study the genetic diversity and structure of the brown trout in the Tatra National Park (TNP) was analyzed by application of ten microsatellites and one mitochondrial DNA markers. For this purpose, a total of 96 fish from 7 main streams located on the territory of the TNP were sampled. Examined fish was characterized by a moderate level of the genetic diversity (I=1.196-1.549) and PIC=0.567-0.707). The mean values of observed (Ho) and expected heterozygosity (He) varied from 0,577 to 0,760 and from 0,609 to 0,723, respectively. Based on genetic analysis, five haplotypes were identified, and the computed haplotype diversity (h) and nucleotide diversity (π) values were 0.561 and 0.001, respectively. Assessed genetic differentiation between the examined groups varied from 0.016 do 0.085 and the global test of differentiation (Fst=0.062) among groups provided statistically insignificant values. Constructed Bayesian skyline plot revealed stable population size, however an evidence of a historical decline of the population size in the studied fish was detected. Similarly, to microsatellite DNA analysis, the obtained data on mtDNA analysis showed weak genetic clustering, where two genetic clusters were identified, however, haplotype frequencies did not follow geographical pattern.
Cytokine Gene Expression, Immune Responses and Disease Resistance of Oncorhynchus mykiss after Raphanus sativus By-products Supplementation
Authors: Arslan Gökhan
Published: July 2021

In the present study, we examined the effects of aqueous methanolic extract of radish seed (Raphanus sativus) by-products (RS) on innate immune responses and growth performance of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The fish was fed diets containing 4 different doses of RS (0 % (Control), 0.1% (RS0.1), 0.5% (RS0.5) and 1% (RS1)) for 14 days. The results showed an increased activity of respiratory burst in fish of treatment groups compared to that of control on 14th day (P<0.05). An enhanced bacterial killing activity was observed in R.05 and RS1 treatment groups compared to control (P<0.05) on 7th day of the study. Lysozyme activity was elevated in fish of RS1 group on 7th day, and in all treatment groups on 14th day compared to that of the control. Myeloperoxidase activity increased significantly in RS1 and RS0.1 groups compared to the control on 7th day. IL-1b was up- regulated in head kidney of fish in RS0.1 group on 7th day and in RS0.5 group on 14th day of the study. In intestine of fish of experimental groups, IL-1b expression was significantly elevated on 7th day compared to the control. IL-12 was also up-regulated both in kidney and intestine of treatment group fish on 7th day. Similar results were observed on IL-10 expression. IL8 was up-regulated both in kidney and intestine of treated fish groups. Growth performance was affected positively in the RS1 group compared to the control. However, FCR value did not vary among different groups. Survival also improved against Aeromonas hydrophila infection in RS administered fish. All these results suggest that supplementation of RS through diets for 7 days could improve immune responses and growth in rainbow trout.
Impact measurement: quantitatively determining the improvement in students’ academic literacy levels at a South African university
Authors: Fouché Ilse
Published: July 2021

Academic literacy interventions are becoming increasingly important in a country where the secondary education system no longer  adequately prepares students for the literacy demands of higher education. This article investigates whether there was an improvementin students’ academic literacy levels between the onset and completion of an academic literacy module at a South African university. This is done by using a combination of instruments selected from a proposed evaluation design for academic literacy interventions, suggested by Fouché, Van Dyk and Butler (2016). A pre-test / post-test design is used, where, firstly, students’ results in a validated and reliable  generic academic literacy test are considered. Secondly, students’ writing abilities are assessed by means of two instruments: a rubric and quantitative measures. Finally, students’ academic literacy marks are correlated to other variables, and interpreted within the context of the study, to give additional insight into the impact of the academic literacy course. Findings indicate that students showed an  improvement across a wide array of academic literacy abilities, in particular their ability to use source material in their writing assignments, and their usage of a wider range of academic vocabulary. However, there were also areas where students did not display anyimprovement. Based on the experience of implementing various evaluation instruments, several recommendations are made on how future researchers could avoid pitfalls that were encountered in this study.
Phytoestrogen in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) (Fabaceae) extract reduces vaginal oxidative stress and increases proliferation of fibroblast in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Setyarini Arika Indah , Wiyasa Wayan Arsana , Ratnawati Retty , Indrawan Wayan Agung
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of a phytoestrogen extract of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) on malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity, as well as proliferation of fibroblasts in ovariectomized rat vagina. This is with a view to identify the optimal dose of a phytoestrogen supplement for use during the menopausal period of women.

Methods: Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) were divided into five groups: negative control, ovariectomy, and ovariectomy groups treated with 1.25, 2.5, or 5 mg/kg of cowpea extract, respectively. The three doses were used to identify the optimal dose required to reduce vaginal oxidative stress and increase fibroblast proliferation in ovariectomized rats. After treatment, the ovariectomized rat vagina was assessed for SOD and MDA levels, MAPK activity, and fibroblast proliferation.

Results: Cowpea extract at a dose of 2.5 and 5 mg/kg caused significant reduction in SOD levels in the vaginal tissue of rats compared with control (p < 0.05). In contrast, cowpea extract at 1.25 mg/kg resulted in MDA levels similar to that of control rats (p < 0.05). Cowpea extract treatment had positive effects on SOD and MDA levels and on fibroblast proliferation. Increase in SOD levels in rat vagina was induced by increased MDA levels, which is characteristic of oxidative stress, while ovariectomy resulted in decreased MAPK activity.

Conclusion: Overall, the cowpea extract has no significant effect on MAPK activity or fibroblast proliferation. However, it has a significant effect on SOD and MDA levels and on fibroblast proliferation at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg.
In vitro antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of the ethanol extract of Uromastyx hardwickii skin
Authors: Shams Waqas Ahmad , Rehman Gauhar , Onoja Samuel Okwudili , Ali Abid , Khan Khurshaid , Niaz Sadaf
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the in vitro antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of the ethanol extract of Uromastyx hardwickii Skin (UHSEE).

Methods: The in vitro effects of UHSEE at various concentrations (10 - 250 µg/mL) on the activities of ߙ-amylase, ߙ-glucosidase and glucose uptake by yeast cells were used to evaluate its antidiabetic potential. Nitric oxide (NO), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydrogen peroxide inhibitory assay were employed to determine its antioxidant effects, while the anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated using human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization assay.

Results: UHSEE inhibited ߙ-amylase and ߙ-glucosidase enzymes but increased glucose uptake by yeast cells in a concentration-dependent manner (p < 0.05). It also inhibited NO, DPPH, hydrogen peroxide and HRBC hemolysis in a concentration-dependent manner (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Uromastyx hardwickii skin exhibits promising good antidiabetic, antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties in vitro. However, its true potentials in this regard needs to be evaluted in vivo.
Development of HPTLC method for determination of α-terpinyl acetate, and evaluation of antioxidant properties of essential oils in Elettaria cardamomum
Authors: Alam Aftab , Majumdar Rita Singh , Alam Pravej
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To develop a simple and reliable protocol for high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) quantification of α-terpinyl acetate in oils extracted from Elettaria cardamomum, and to study relative antioxidant potential of oils obtained from three varieties of fruits of E. cardamomum.

Methods: Essential oil was extracted separately from the fruits of three varieties of E. cardamomum, viz, Valley-green, Palakuzhi, and ICRI-2, using hydro-distillation method. In the development of an HPTLC method, standard α-terpinyl acetate was subjected to chromatography on aluminium-backed silica gel 60 F254 plates using a mobile phase of n-hexane: ethyl acetate (8:2, v/v), and quantified at 665 nm through densitometric analysis. The antioxidant property of essential oil of each cultivar was determined with respect to 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3- ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging assays, as well as ferric reducing assay.

Results: The developed HPTLC method showed a good resolution for α-terpinyl acetate, with Rf of 0.64 ± 0.01, and also showed good linearity of the calibration plots (r2 = 0.9982). The HPTLC method was validated as per ICH guidelines, and used for the determination of α-terpinyl acetate in the essential oils. The valley green variety of E. cardamomum had the highest content of α-terpinyl acetate (55.36 ± 1.33 %w/w). The inhibitory capacity (IC50 value) for the oil of valley green variety as determined using DPPH and ABTS methods was 378.2 and 19.87 μg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion: The proposed HPTLC method is suitable for routine analysis of α-terpinyl acetate in medicinal herbs, and it reveals the role of α-terpinyl acetate in the antioxidant efficacy of cardamom oil.
Iron deficiency anemia and associated factors among pregnant women in a tertiary care hospital, in Sargodha District, Pakistan
Authors: Qamar Sumbul , Azhar Saira , Mazhar Saadoon , Bakht Khush , Murtaza Ghulam
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To evaluate iron deficiency anemia and other concomitant risk factors among pregnant women in a tertiary care hospital in Sargodha District of Pakistan.

Methods: An observational cross-sectional study on pregnant women over a six-month period from December 2016, was conducted in the gynaecology and obstetrics department of the District Headquarters Hospital, Sargodha, Pakistan. All women with renal failure, heart disease and surgical history were excluded from the study, while all pregnant women visiting the out-patient department (OPD) were included in the investigation. Blood sampling and analysis were performed, following standard laboratory operating procedures to determine the haemoglobin (Hb) levels of the patients.

Results: Fifty pregnant women were enrolled in this study. They had a mean age of 27.85 ± 4.99 years with a range of 20 – 46 years. Almost half, i.e., 26 (52 %), were aged 20 – 30 years; 18 (36 %) 31 – 40 years and six (12 %) > 40 years of age. Regarding occupational status, 45 (90 %) of the respondents were housewives. In total, 86 % of the women were anemic, while the remaining 14 % were non-anemic and had an Hb level slightly > 11 g/dL. Among the anemic women, 13 (26 %) had mild anemia, 33 (66 %) moderate anemia, and 4 (8 %) were severely anemic.

Conclusion: Iron deficiency and anemia have major health impacts on pregnant women. Steps should be taken during ante-natal care to monitor Hb levels in pregnant women and apply appropriate remedy where necessary. Other biomarkers and related risk factors such as total iron binding capacity (TIBC) and total blood count (TBC) have previously been found to be linked to anemia
Postoperative vomiting/nausea in Chinese patients undergoing bariatric surgery
Authors: Zhao Li-Ping , Zou Lu-Jia , He Jing-Hui
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To assess the incidence of post-operative vomiting/nausea (PVN), as well as usage and effectiveness of PVN prophylaxis in Chinese patients receiving bariatric surgery.

Methods: This prospective observational study included 82 patients subjected to bariatric surgery using total intravenous (IV) anesthesia. Patients were given PVN prophylactic treatment as per the local practice depending on Apfel et al criterion for simplified risk score useful for PVN prediction. Postsurgery, the patients were evaluated at 2, 4, 6, 24, 48 and 72 h using a questionnaire. Univariate analysis of risk factors associated with PVN was carried conducted with Pearson’s Chi-squared test for category variables and Mann–Whitney–Wilcoxon test for a continuous variable.

Results: About 69 % of the patients developed PVN within 24 h post-surgery, and the risk increased with increase in the number of PVN risk factors. Significant contrasts were seen with respect to PVN, with higher occurrence in females (81.36 %), when compared to males (39.13 %) within the first 24 h (p < 0.05). Two patients got sub-optimum PVN prophylactic therapy as per guidelines, 19 patients had optimum therapy, while 61 patients had supra-optimum therapy. Moreover, 63.94 % of patients who obtained supra-optimum PVN prophylactic therapy experienced PVN within 24 h post-surgery, while 84.21 % of patients with optimum PVN prophylactic therapy experienced PVN within the same period (p < 0.05). Overall, 35.37 % of patients experienced serious nausea 24 h post-surgery.

Conclusion: PVN incidence is high, notwithstanding the fact that almost all the patients received optimum or supra-optimum prophylactic therapy. These findings raise dubiety regarding the viability and significance of using risk-based PVN prophylactic therapy in patients under bariatric surgery. Thus, further research is needed in this regard.
Silencing of acetyl-CoA carboxylase-α gene in human gastric cancer cells inhibits proliferation via induction of apoptosis, autophagy and suppression of cell invasion
Authors: Yu Chunsong , Wu Xuehong , Yao Bihua , Tao Huaxing
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To study the role and therapeutic potential of acetyl-CoA-carboxylase-α (ACC) in the management of gastric cancer.

Methods: Expression of ACC in gastric cancer cell lines was determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Lipofectamine 2000 reagent was used for transfection, while cell viability was determined by MTT assay. Apoptotic cell death was assayed with 4′, 6-diamidino-2- phenylindole (DAPI) and acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining. The proportion of apoptotic cells was estimated with Annexin V/PI staining. Wound healing and Transwell assays were employed to monitor cell migration and invasion, while protein expression was determined using western blotting.

Results: The results showed that ACC was significantly enhanced in SNU-1 gastric cancer cells (4.2- fold). Silencing of ACC in SNU-1 gastric cancer cells caused significant decrease in cell proliferation (p < 0.05). Electron microscopy examination showed that ACC silencing triggered autophagic cell death in SNU-1 cells, and increased expression of LC3 II. Results from DAPI and AO/EB assays demonstrated that ACC silencing also promoted apoptosis in SNU-1 gastric cancer cells. Annexin V/PI assay results revealed that apoptotic cell population increased from 2.7 to 13.8 % due to ACC silencing (p < 0.05). Moreover, Bax expression increased, while Bcl-2 expression decreased upon ACC silencing. Transwell assay results indicate that ACC silencing caused marked decrease in the invasion of the SNU-1 cells and downregulation of the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: ACC is likely to be an important therapeutic target for gastric cancer.
Dexmedetomidine pretreatment alleviates ischemia reperfusion injury-induced inflammatory reaction via inhibition of TLR-4/NF-ΚB signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Haiping , Wu Zhiying , Han Nanhuo , Xu Lu , Xiong Kai
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To study the effect of dexmedetomidine on ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI)–induced inflammatory response, as well as its underlying mechanism of action.

Methods: Three groups of healthy adult Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (mean weight, 275 ± 10 g): control, IRI and treatment groups were used. With the exception of control group, ligation was performed on left anterior descending coronary arteries for 30 min and blood perfusion was restored within 100 min to establish IRI. Control group rats were without left ligation. Rats in control and IRI groups received normal saline intraperitoneally 30 min prior to surgery, while the treatment group received 100 μg/kg dexmedetomidine via intraperitoneal injection 30 min before operation. Infarct volume was determined using triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. IL-6) and TNF-α levels of myocardial tissues and serum were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blotting was used to determine protein expressions of NF-ΚB and TLR-4 in myocardial tissues.

Results: Pretreatment with dexmedetomidine markedly decreased infarct volume caused by IRI (p < 0.05). Serum and myocardial TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly upregulated in IRI group, relative to control group, but were downregulated by pretreatment with dexmedetomidine (p < 0.05). There was marked upregulation of NF-ΚB and TLR-4 proteins in IRI rats, relative to untreated rats (p < 0.05). Dexmedetomidine also down-regulated the expressions of these proteins (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Pretreatment with dexmedetomidine alleviates IRI-induced inflammatory reaction via suppression of TLR-4/NF-ΚB signaling pathway. This finding provides a basis for large-scale clinical trials with dexmedetomidine.
Ophiopogon japonicas (Linn. f.) Ker-Gawl. extract ameliorates chronic heart failure in rats
Authors: Cai Hu-zhi , Tang Yan-ping , Chen Xin-yu , Xie Hai-bo , Chen Qing-yang , Xu Ze-lin
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of Ophiopogon japonicas (Linn. f.) Ker-Gawl. extract (OJKE) on oxidative stress and hemodynamics in chronic congestive heart failure (CHF) rats.

Methods: The rats were modelled to congestive heart failure (except normal group) , and then randomly divided into normal control group, model (untreated) group, captopril group, high-dose, middle-dose and low-dose of OJKE groups. They were treated for 4 weeks as appropriate for each group. At the end of treatment, the hemodynamic function, whole heart weight index, and blood creatinine kinase (CK), as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), nitricoxide synthase (NOS) were determined.

Results: Compared with the normal control group, arterial systolic pressure (SBP), diastolic pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), left ventricular systolic peak (LVSP), and left ventricular pressure change rate (dp/dt max) significantly decreased (p < 0.05), while left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP), whole heart weight index, blood CK, MDA, NO, NOS significantly increased in the untreated group (p < 0.05). A high dose of OJKE significantly improved hemodynamic function, lowered MDA (8.33 ± 2.12 nmol/mL) and NO (20.58 ± 3.53 umol/L) levels (p < 0.05), and also decreased CK (0.53±0.37 U/mL) and NOS (22.46±3.29 U/mL) in CHF rats (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: OJKE improved adriamycin-induced chronic congestive heart failure in rats significantly.
Immunosuppressive effect of voacamine from Voacanga africana Stapf based on SPRi experiment
Authors: Li Hong Xiang , Wang Yan Qiu , Zhao Jin Shuang , Zhu Li Xia , Huai Wen Ying , Liu Rong Qiang , Zhang Tian E. , Deng Yun
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the affinity of a bis-indole alkaloid - voacamine from Voacanga Africana Stapf for IL-2Rα - and its immunosuppressive effect on concanavalin A-induced T cell proliferation and lipopolysaccharide -induced B cell proliferation in vitro.

Methods: Surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi) was used to screen the target protein of voacamine, while CCK-8 kit was used to evaluate cytotoxicity. Mitogen-induced proliferation assay was carried out to assess the inhibitory effect of voacamine on Con A-induced T cell proliferation and LPSinduced B cell proliferation. The binding characteristics of voacamine were investigated using a binding model with IL-2Rα constructed based on molecular docking simulation.

Results: Voacamine had a high-affinity for IL-2Rα with an equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) of 1.85×10-8 M. Cytotoxicity data showed that voacamine did not exhibit cytotoxicity at concentrations lower than 0.32 µM. However, it exerted significant immunosuppressive effect on B cells at a lower concentration, but had no influence on proliferation of T cells. Autodock results indicate that voacamine has a good interaction with the enzyme active site.

Conclusion: Voacamine and its analogues exert influence on the immune system.
Protective effect of Acorus tatarinowii extract against alzheimer in 3xTg-AD mice
Authors: Su Cen , Niu Ping , Xu Yao-ming , Feng Ye , Xia Hai-ping
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the protective effect of Acorus tatarinowii extract (ATE) against Alzheimer's disease in 3xTg-AD mice.

Method: The cognitive function of 3xTg-AD mice was assessed using Morris water maze test. The levels of the amyloid beta deposits and NeuN in the hippocampus were evaluated by immunohistochemical assay while brain neurotrophic derived factor (BDNF) and tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) expressions were determined by western blot analysis.

Results: ATE treatment significantly ameliorated learning and memory deficits in AD mice, as shown by increased time spent in the target zone during probe tests. The escape latency in animals treated with 600 mg/kg ATE (24.8 ± 1.3 s) was significantly increased relative to ontreated 3xTg-AD mice (8.5 ± 1.0 s, p < 0.01). In addition, ATE significantly decreased Aβ deposits, increased NeuN-positive cells, and upregulated the expression of BDNF (1.9 ± 0.4, p < 0.05) and TrkB (1.9 ± 0.2, p < 0.05) in 3xTg AD mice.

Conclusion: These results suggest that ATE treatment may be a useful strategy for managing memory impairment induced by several neurodegenerative diseases.
Effect of Zaoxiu ointment on wound-healing in experimental second degree burns rats
Authors: Wang Xiong , Ma Li , Huang Meng-ling , Chen Yong-gang , Wu Jin-hu
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the healing efficacy of a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) preparation Zaoxiu Burn Ointment (ZBO) on experimental burns in rats.

Methods: The rats were randomly divided into four groups of eight rats each: control group, silver sulfadiazine (SSD)-treated group, moist exposed burn ointment (MEBO)-treated group and ZBO-treated group. ZBO, SSD and MEBO were applied topically twice daily for 7 days. SSD and MEBO were used as reference control. The observation of wound area contraction and histological analysis of wound tissues were performed. The effect of ZBO on MMPs, VEGF and Type-III collagen proteins of wound tissue in rats were determined by Western blot.

Results: After 10 days of topical treatment with ZBO, ZBO-treated group showed faster reduction in wound area in comparison with control groups (p < 0.01). MMP-2, MMP-9, VEGF and type-III collagen expression of the wound tissue increased significantly (p < 0.05) in comparison with the control burn wounds in rats. The ZBO had no cytotoxic effect on BHK-21 cell line. Histological results showed an overall early recovery and regeneration in ZBO-treated group when compared with control group.

Conclusion: ZBO possesses significant wound-healing activity in full-thickness burn wounds in rats, and can potentially be developed for the treatment of burns patient in future.
MicroRNA-187 inhibits pentylenetetrazol-induced neuronal apoptosis and alleviates development of epilepsy in epileptic rats by regulating SPRY1 expression
Authors: Diao Limei , Yu Haichun , Wang Shungui , Yu Qian , Li Huaxia , Lu Ling , Liao Xianqiu , Li Huan , Qiu Xiaoqiang
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To explore the role of microRNA-187 on the pathological process of epilepsy.

Methods: The seizure score of epileptic rats was evaluated according to Racine’s scale. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to determine the expression levels of microRNA-187 (miR-187). Western blot technique was conducted to assess the expression levels of caspase 3, B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2), and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)] and activation of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)/PI3K/AKT cascade. Caspase 3 colorimetric assay kit was employed to evaluate the activity of caspase 3. Dual-luciferase reporter gene system was used to explore the regulating mechanisms of miR-187 and protein sprouty homolog 1 gene (SPRY1).

Results: The results showed that miR-187 was aberrantly downregulated in the hippocampus regions of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-treated rats compared to normal rats (p < 0.05). Furthermore, PTZ promoted caspase 3-dependent neuronal apoptosis by increasing the expression of pro-apoptosis protein PARP and decreasing the expression levels of BCL-2 in rats. On the other hand, overexpression of miR-187 downregulated SPRY1 as well as PTEN (p < 0.05), thereby activating the downstream PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Notably, the effects of upregulated miR-187 on neuronal apoptosis and epilepsy development in PTZ-induced rats was reversed by the concomitant overexpression of SPRY1 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The results of this research show that overexpressed miR-187 alleviates the development of PTZ-induced neuronal apoptosis and epilepsy in epileptic rat models by regulating SPRY1 expression. These findings can hopefully be beneficial for the discovery of new therapeutic strategies for epilepsy treatment.
Neuroprotective effects of electro-acupuncture in spinal cord injury rats via up-regulation of DUSP14
Authors: Zhang Junfeng , Wu Yaochi , Xu Jingjie , Zhang Shenghong , Li Shisheng
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To study the effect and mechanism of action of electro-acupuncture (EA) on nerve regeneration by analyzing the behavior, inflammation and cell death in spinal cord injury (SCI) rat model.

Methods: SCI model was established according to Allen’s falling strike method. Electroacupuncture was performed on Jiaji (EX-B2)/Mingmen (GV4) acupoint with a 1 mA current intermittent wave at a frequency of 2Hz for 20 min daily. Interleukin (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were measured using ELISA kits. Apoptosis-induced DNA strand breaks were evaluated by TUNEL assay while relative mRNA expression was assessed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Protein levels were measured by western blot.

Results: Relative mRNA and protein expressions of DUSP14 decreased in SCI rats with time but increased by EA treatment. Further, partial locomotor functional recovery was presented in SCI rats by EA treatment. Moreover, intraspinal injection of DUSP14 over-expression viral supernatants/EA treatment ameliorated inflammation and apoptosis in SCI rats. Meanwhile, the protein levels of NF-κB p65 (nucleus) and phosphorylated TGF-activated kinase 1 (p-TAK1) increased in SCI rats following EA treatment but were decreased by EA treatment and intraspinal injection of DUSP14 over-expression viral supernatants.

Conclusion: EA acupoint treatment exerts neuroprotective effects in SCI rats via the reduction of inflammation and apoptosis, and induction of DUSP14.
Hypaconitine confers protection on ketamine-induced neuronal injury in neonatal rat brain via a mechanism involving PI3K/Akt/Bcl-2 pathway
Authors: Liu Junbao , Hu Yubo , Li Linlin , Li Longyun
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To investigate the neuroprotective effect of hypaconitine against ketamine-induced neuronal injury in the brains of neonatal rats, and the underlying mechanism of action.

Methods: Seven day-old Sprague-Dawley pups weighing 15.0 to 20.0 g (mean weight = 17.5 ± 2.5 g), and aged 7 days were used for this study. The pups were sacrificed, and their forebrains isolated and used to prepare cell suspensions. The isolated cells were treated with ketamine (100 µM) or varied concentrations of hypaconitine (0.1 – 2 µM) or LY294002 (10 µM). The cells were trypsinized and cultured at 37 °C in 10 % fetal bovine serum (FBS) supplemented Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM) in a humidified incubator containing 5 % CO2. Cell viability was determined using MTT assay, while TUNEL assay was used to determine the extent of apoptosis in the cells. The expressions of pAkt, Bcl-2 and caspase-3 were determined using Western blotting.

Results: There were only few viable cells in the ketamine-treated group, and cell viability was significantly and dose-dependently increased in hypaconitine-treated groups (p < 0.05). The extent of apoptosis was significantly higher in ketamine-treated cells than in control cells, but treatment with hypaconitine significantly reduced the number of apoptotic cells (p < 0.05). However, in the presence of LY294002 (a PI3K-specific inhibitor), the effect of hypaconitine on neuronal cell apoptosis was significantly reversed (p < 0.05). The expressions of p-Akt and Bcl-2 were significantly down-regulated while the expression of caspase-3 was significantly upregulated in ketamine-treated neuronal cells, when compared with control group (p < 0.05). However, in cells treated with hypaconitine, the expressions of p-Akt and Bcl-2 were significantly upregulated, while the expression of caspase-3 was significantly down-regulated (p < 0.05). Treatment of neuronal cells with hypaconitine in the presence of LY294002 significantly reversed the effect of hypaconitine on the expressions of p-Akt, Bcl-2 and caspase-3 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: These results suggest that hypaconitine ameliorates ketamine-induced neuronal injury in neonatal rats via a mechanism involving the PI3K/Akt/Bcl-2 pathway.
Count time series models for road traffic accidents in Tanzania Mainland
Authors: Msengwa Amina S , Ngari Florence D
Published: July 2021

A pairwise analysis was conducted to assess the trends and factors associated with road traffic accidents in Tanzania. The Poisson and Negative Binomial Autoregressive Models were used to extend log linear functions by accounting time-varying components. A total of 85,514 road traffic accidents in Tanzania mainland that occurred from 2012 to 2017 were extracted from Tanzania Police Office records. Eleven factors were grouped into a human, vehicle, physical/environmental and pedestrian-related factors. The Likelihood ratio test, Akaike Information Criterion, Bayesian Information Criterion and residual ACF plots were used to evaluate the performance of the models in Dar es Salaam and other combined regions. The trend analysis indicated a declining pattern in all factors and human-related factors appeared higher than the other three factors. The highest number of road traffic accidents was observed in Dar es Salaam Region compared to other combined regions. The models, including its past values and time-varying factors, were in favour-of other models. In both, Dar es Salaam and other combined regions, non-linear pattern and Negative Binomial Autoregressive Models fitted the data well. The implementation of collective actions in recent years seems positive on road traffic accidents. Nevertheless, more emphasis is needed to monitor trends on the number of accidents and related fatalities.

Keywords: Road Traffic Accidents, Poisson, Negative binomial, Autoregressive Models, Tanzania.
Winged women on book covers for contemporary African fiction: Shubnum Khan’s creation for Mohale Mashigo’s Intruders (2018)
Authors: Kriel Lize
Published: July 2021

In her collection of short stories, Intruders, Mohale Mashigo (2018) draws on popular culture as well as local cultural memories as invested in South African folktales, to conjure up a fantastical world in which spirituality is often invoked. In this article, I consider the way in which the visual image of a woman with angelic wings designed for the book cover by artist Shubnum Khan, serves the purpose of marketing the commodity by means of connotations presumed to be familiar to potential readers, but also still suggestive enough to stimulate, rather than prescribe, the visual imagination ignited in the process of reading. I link book cover designer Peter Mendelsund’s argument that the reading imagination, although fuelled by memory, remains “loosely associative” and “not overtly coherent”, with Ingvild Gilhus’s cultural-historical appraisal of the angel’s appeal as such a malleable symbol of (increasingly, specifically) female superhuman capabilities. I argue that the cover image ‘works’ because of its ability to kindle memories of precolonial African spirituality, associations with Christianity, as well as images circulating in mass media.