bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GWAS Provides Biological Insights into Mechanisms of the Parasitic Plant (Striga) Resistance in Sorghum
Authors: Kavuluko Jacinta , Kibe Magdaline , Sugut Irine , Kibet Willy , Masanga Joel , Mutinda Sylvia , Wamalwa Mark , Magomere Titus , Odeny Damaris , Runo Steven Maina
Published: September 2020

Background: Sorghum yields in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are greatly reduced by parasitic plants of the genus Striga (witchweed). Vast global sorghum genetic diversity collections, as well as the availability of modern sequencing technologies, can be potentially harnessed to effectively manage the parasite. Results: We used laboratory assays – rhizotrons to screen a global sorghum diversity panel to identify new sources of resistance to Striga; determine mechanisms of resistance, and elucidate genetic loci underlying the resistance using genome-wide association studies (GWAS). New Striga resistant sorghum determined by the number, size and biomass of parasite attahements were identified. In total 13 sorghum genotypes had higher or comparable resistance levels as IS9830 and N13 used as resistance checks. Resistance was by; i) mechanical barriers that blocked parasite entry, ii) elicitation of a hypersensitive reaction that interfered with parasite development, and iii) the inability of the parasite to develop vascular connections with hosts. Resistance genes underpinning the resistance corresponded with the resistance mechanisms and included pleiotropic drug resistance proteins that transport resistance molecules; xylanase inhibitors involved in cell wall fortification and hormonal regulators of resistance response, Ethylene Response Factors. Conclusions: Our findings are of fundamental importance to developing durable and broad-spectrum resistance against Striga and have far-reaching applications in many SSA countries where Striga threatens the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers that rely on sorghum as a food staple.
Bacterial Composition and Diversity Associated with Rhizosphere of the Chinese Medicinal Herb Dendrobium
Authors: Yuan Yingdan , Zu Mengting , Liu Lei , Song Xiaomei
Published: September 2020

Background: Dendrobium is a precious herbal belongs to Orchid and widely used as health care traditional Chinese medicine in Asia. Although orchids are mycorrhizal plants, most researches still focus on endophytes, and there is still large unknown in rhizosphere microorganisms. In order to investigate the rhizosphere microbial community of different Dendrobium species during the maturity stage, we used high-throughput sequencing to analyze microbial community in rhizosphere soil during maturity stage of three kinds of Dendrobium species.Results: In our study, a total of 240,320 sequences and 11,179 OTUs were obtained from these three Dendrobium species. According to the analysis of OTU annotation results, different Dendrobium rhizosphere soil bacteria include 2 kingdoms, 63 phyla, 72 classes, 159 orders, 309 families, 850 genera and 663 species. Among all sequences, the dominant bacterial phyla (relative abundance > 1%) were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Acidobacteria, Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia, Planctomycetes, Chloroflexi, Gemmatimonadetes. We analyzed the environmental factors of the growth of Dendrobium and found that the environmental factor that affects the rhizosphere soil microorganisms of Dendrobium is the soil factor. Among them, soil factors most closely related to the influence of Dendrobium rhizosphere soil microorganisms include total nitrogen, available phosphorus, ammonium nitrogen and pH value.Conclusions: We found that the rhizosphere bacterial communities of the three kinds of Dendrobium have significant differences, and the main species of rhizosphere microorganisms of Dendrobium are concentrated in the Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes. Moreover, the smaller the level of bacterial, the greater the difference among Dendrobium species. Soil is the most important environmental factor affecting the bacterial communities in the rhizosphere soil of Dendrobium. These results fill the gap in the rhizosphere microbial community of Dendrobium and provide a theoretical basis for the subsequent mining of microbial functions and the study of biological fertilizers.
Height and Volume Restoration In Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures: A Biomechanical Comparison Of Standard Balloon Kyphoplasty Versus Tektona In A Cadaveric Fracture Model
Authors: Krüger Antonio , Bäumlein Martin , Knauf Tom , Pascal-Moussellard Hugues , Ruchholtz Steffen , Oberkircher Ludwig
Published: September 2020

Background: Standard balloon kyphoplasty represents a well-established treatment option for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Aim of the present study was to evaluate two different methods of percutaneous augmentation (standard Balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) versus Tektona (TEK)) with respect to height restoration. Methods: Four-teen vertebral bodies of two female cadavers were examined. Fractures were created using a standardized protocol. CT-scans were taken before and after fracture, as well as after treatment. Afterwards two groups were randomly assigned in a matched pair design: 7 vertebral bodies (VB) were treated with (BKP, Kyphon, Medtronic) and 7 vertebral bodies by TEK (Spineart, Switzerland) Anterior, central and posterior vertebral body heights were evaluated by CT-scans. Volumetry was performed using the CT-scans at three different timepoints. Results: Values before fracture represent 100 %. The anterior height after fracture was reduced to 75,99 (± 4,8) % for the BKP group and to 76,54 (± 9,17) % in the TEK Group. Statistically there was no difference for the groups (p = 1). After treatment the values increased to 93,06 (±5) % for the BKP Group and 87,71 (±6,2) % for the TEK Group. The difference before and after treatment was significant for both groups (BKP p =0,0006; TEK p= 0,03). Within the groups, there was no difference (p=0,13). The Volume of the vertebral body was reduced to 82,29 (±8,4) % in the BKP Group and to 76,54 (±8,6) % in the TEK Group. After treatment the volume was 89,26 (±6,9) % for the BKP Group and 88,80 (±8,7) % for the TEK Group. The difference before and after treatment was significant only for the TEK group (BKP p =0,0728 n.s.; TEK p= 0,0175). Within the groups, there was no difference (p=0,2). The average cement volume used was 6,1 (range 3,6 - 9 ml) for the BKP group and 5,3 (3 - 7,2 ml) for the TEK group respectively.Conclusions: Based on our results the new System Tektona in osteoporotic compression fractures might represent a promising alternative for the clinical setting, especially preserving bone. Further biomechanical tests and clinical studies have to proof Tektona`s capabilities.
Stages of Embryonic Development of the Amazonian turtle Kinosternon Scorpioides (Testudines, Kinosternidae)
Authors: Chaves Lianne Pollianne Fernandes Araujo , Viana Diego Carvalho , Tchaika Ligia , Caldas Juliana Maria Alves , Neto Antônio Chaves Assis , Miglino Maria Angélica , Sousa Alana Lislea
Published: September 2020

Background: The developmental biology of K. scorpioides is described, based on the phenotype. This species is important for the flora because they are excellent seed disseminators. In addition, basic embryological information is not yet fully clarified, and this research provides unprecedented information on the chelonian embryology of the Amazonian fauna. Methods: Females were monitored throughout the reproductive cycle, by video monitoring, to identify nests and the presence of newly laid eggs. At regular weekly intervals, embryo samples were collected fixed in a 4% paraformol solution and preserved in 70% alcohol. For the embryonic characterization we used a stereomicroscope and the scanning electron microscopy method. Results: We describe 15 embryonic stages for a 15-week (105-day) incubation cycle. Only at 42 days (6th week) was the morphological characterization of a chelonian observed and at the 12th week (Stage XII) the phenotypic characterization of the species kinosternon scorpioides. Conclusions: In view of the evidence, we found that these phases are similar to the other turtles, with structural variations in the appearance and disappearance of structures due to the specific characteristics for the species.
Understanding the Influence of Substrate When Growing Tumorspheres
Authors: Benítez Lucía , Barberis Lucas , Vellón Luciano , Condat Carlos Alberto
Published: September 2020

Background: Cancer stem cells are important for the development of many solid tumors. These cells receive promoting and inhibitory signals that depend on the nature of their environment (their niche) and determine cell dynamics. Mechanical stresses are crucial to the initiation and interpretation of these signals. Methods: A two-population mathematical model of tumorsphere growth is used to interpret the results of a series of experiments recently carried out in Tianjin, China, and extract information about the intraspecific and interspecific interactions between cancer stem cell and differentiated cancer cell populations. Results: The model allows us to reconstruct the time evolution of the cancer stem cell fraction, which was not directly measured. We find that, in the presence of stem cell growth factors, the interspecific cooperation between cancer stem cells and differentiated cancer cells induces a positive feedback loop that determines growth, independently of substrate hardness. In a frustrated attempt to reconstitute the stem cell niche, the number of cancer stem cells increases continuously with a reproduction rate that is enhanced by a hard substrate. For growth on soft agar, intraspecific interactions are always inhibitory, but on hard agar the interactions between stem cells are collaborative while those between differentiated cells are strongly inhibitory. Evidence also suggests that a hard substrate brings about a large fraction of asymmetric stem cell divisions. In the absence of stem cell growth factors, the barrier to differentiation is broken and overall growth is faster, even if the stem cell number is conserved. Conclusions: Our interpretation of the experimental results validates the centrality of the concept of stem cell niche when tumor growth is fueled by cancer stem cells. Niche memory is found to be responsible for the characteristic population dynamics observed in tumorspheres. A specific condition for the growth of the cancer stem cell number is also obtained.
The Efficacy of Aromatherapy With Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis L.) on Sleep Quality in Cardiac Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lotfi Adeleh , Mohtashami Jamileh , Khangholi Zahra Arab , Shirmohammadi-Khorram Nasrin
Published: September 2020

Background: The importance of sleep in physical and mental well-being is generally acknowledged by both health professionals and the general public.This study investigated the effects on inhalation aromatherapy on sleep quality in cardiac patients.Methods: Ninety-six men and women aged between 20 and 75 were randomized to inhale aromatherapy essential oil from Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) or odorless sesame oil (the placebo) for 30 minutes twice daily for 3 days. Sleep quality by Verran Synder- Halpern (VSH) scale were assessed before and after period.Results: Compared with the placebo, the experimental group showed that the components such as subjective sleep quality, sleep disturbance, and daytime dysfunction were significantly decreased (P< 0.005).Conclusion: Aromatherapy may be used as an independent nursing intervention for improving sleep quality of cardiac patients.
Prevalence and risk factors of bowel symptoms in Korean patients with ulcerative colitis in endoscopic remission: a restrospective study
Authors: Nam Kwangwoo , Park Sang Hyoung , Oh Jun Ho , Lee Ho-Su , Noh Soomin , Park Jae Cheol , Kim Jin Yong , Oh Eun Hye , Kim Jeongseok , Ham Nam Seok , Hwang Sung Wook , Yang Dong-Hoon , Ye Byong Duk , Byeon Jeong-Sik , Myung Seung-Jae , Yang Suk-Kyun
Published: September 2020

Background
Many patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) in clinical remission frequently complain of bowel symptoms such as increased stool frequency (SF) and rectal bleeding (RB). However, studies on these patient-reported outcomes in patients with inactive UC are limited, especially in Korea. We investigated the prevalence and risk factors of bowel symptoms in Korean patients with inactive UC.
Methods
We investigated the prevalence of bowel symptoms in patients with endoscopically quiescent UC between June 1989 and December 2016 using a well-characterized referral center-based cohort. The Mayo clinic score (MCS) was used to evaluate bowel symptoms at the most recent visit near the date of endoscopy. Clinical characteristics of the patients were compared based on the presence or absence of bowel symptoms.
Results
Overall, 741 patients with endoscopically quiescent UC were identified, of whom 222 (30%) and 48 (6.5%) had an SF and RB subscore of ≥ 1, respectively. Patients with bowel symptoms (SF + RB ≥ 1; n = 244 [32.9%]) had higher rates of left-sided colitis (E2) or extensive colitis (E3) than patients without bowel symptoms (SF + RB = 0; n = 497 [67.1%]; P = 0.002). Multivariate analysis revealed that female sex (odds ratio [OR]: 1.568; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.023–2.402; P = 0.039) and E2 or E3 (OR 1.411; 95% CI 1.020–1.951; P = 0.038) were the significant risk factors for increased SF.
Conclusions
This study revealed that one-third of patients with endoscopically quiescent UC reported increased SF. Female sex and disease extent may be associated with bowel symptoms.
Exosomes Derived From Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate Acetaminophen-induced Acute Liver Failure Through Activating ERK and IGF-1R/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathways
Authors: Wu Han-You , Zhang Xiang-Cheng , Cao Ye , Yan Kai , Li Jing-Yuan , Tao Li , Jie Zhi-Gang , liu quanwen
Published: September 2020

Background: Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) transplantation has been proposed as a promising therapeutic approach for treating acute liver failure (ALF), but its application is limited by immune rejection and tumor formation. Exosomes contain various bioactive cargos including mRNA, microRNA, and protein that can alter the cellular enviroment to enhance tissue repair. However, the exact effects of hUCMSCs derived exosomes (hUCMSC-Exo) on the healing of ALF and their potential mechanisms are not explored.Methods: In vivo, mouse model of ALF were set up through a single intraperitoneal injection of acetaminophen (APAP, 380 mg/kg). In vitro, human hepatocyte cells LO2 were treated with APAP (5 mM). Then APAP-induced ALF mice and APAP-injured LO2 cells were treated with hUCMSC-Exo. Finally, the effects and the mechanisms were estimated.Results: We found that a single tail vein administration of hucMSC-Exo effectively enhanced the survival rate, inhibited apoptosis in hepatocytes, and improved liver function in APAP-induced mouse model of ALF. Furthermore, the deletion of glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), generation of malondialdehyde (MDA), and the over expression of cytochrome P450 E1 (CYP2E1) and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) caused by APAP were also inhibited by hucMSC-Exo, indicating that hucMSC-Exo inhibited APAP-induced apoptosis of hepatocytes by reducing oxidative stress. Moreover, hucMSC-Exo significantly down-regulated the levels of inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α in APAP-treated livers. Western blot showed that hucMSC-Exo significantly promoted the activation of ERK1/2 and IGF-1R/PI3K/AKT signaling pathways in APAP-injured LO2 cells, resulting in the inhibition of apoptosis of LO2 cells. Importantly, PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 could reverse the function of hucMSC-Exo on APAP-injured LO2 cells in some extent. Conclusions: Our results suggest that hucMSC-Exo offer antioxidant hepatoprotection against APAP in vitro and in vivo by inhibitiing oxidative stress-induced apoptosis via upregulation of ERK1/2 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways, suggesting that administration of hucMSC-Exo may be an alternative approach for the treatment of ALF.
Focused Ultrasound of the Heart and Lungs in Patients With Respiratory Failure: A Randomized Controlled Multicenter Trial.
Authors: Riishede Minna , Lassen Annmarie T. , Baatrup Gunnar , Pietersen Pia Iben , Jacobsen Niels , Jeschke Klaus Nielsen , Laursen Christian Borbjerg
Published: September 2020

Background Ultrasound is a focus oriented tool for differentiating among cardiopulmonary diseases. Its value in the hands of emergency physicians, with various ultrasound experience, remains uncertain. We tested the hypothesis that, in emergency department patients with signs of respiratory failure, a focused cardiopulmonary ultrasound along with standard clinical examination, performed by emergency physicians with various ultrasound experience would increase the proportion of patients with correct diagnoses at 4 hours after admission compared to standard clinical examination alone. Methods In this prospective multicenter superiority trial in Danish emergency departments we randomly assigned patients presenting with acute signs of respiratory failure to intervention or control in a 1:1 ratio by block randomization. Patients received a focused cardiopulmonary ultrasound examination within 4 hours from admission. Ultrasound results were unblinded for the treating emergency physician in the intervention group. Final diagnoses and treatment were determined by blinded review of the medical record after the patients´ discharge.Results From October 9, 2015 to April 5, 2017, we randomized 218 patients and included 211 in the final analyses. At 4 hours we found; no change in the proportion of patients with correct presumptive diagnoses; intervention 79·25% (95% CI 70·3-86·0), control 77·1% (95% CI 68·0-84·3), an increased proportion of correct treatment prescribed; intervention 79·3% (95% CI 70·3-86·0), control 65·7% (95% CI 56·0-74·3) and of patients who spent less than 1 day in hospital; intervention n=42 (39·6%; 25·8 38·4), control n=25 (23·8%; 16·5-33·0). No adverse events were reported. Conclusions Focused cardiopulmonary ultrasound added to standard clinical examination in patients with signs of respiratory failure had no impact on the diagnostic accuracy, but significantly increased the proportion of correct treatment prescribed and the proportion who spent less than 1 day in hospital.Trial registration https://clinicaltrials.gov/, number NCT 02550184.
MiR-1301-3p Inhibits Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition via Targeting RhoA in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Zhang Xinxue , Zhao Xin , Xu Junming , Ma Jun , Liu Zhe , Kou Jiantao , Lang Ren , He Qiang
Published: September 2020

Background: Micro(mi)RNAs play an essential role in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in human cancers. This study aimed to uncover the regulatory mechanism of miR-1301-3p on EMT in pancreatic cancer (PC).Methods: GEO database (GSE31568, GSE41372, and GSE32688) and the PC cohort of The Cancer Genome Atlas were applied to discover the expression and prognostic role of miR-1301-3p. In the validation cohort, qRT-PCR was performed in 72 paired PC tissue samples. CCK-8, wound healing, and transwell migration assays were used to detect miR-1301-3p function on PC cells. Luciferase reporter assays and western blotting were performed to discover the potential target of miR-1301-3p on EMT.Results: Our study revealed that miR-1301-3p was downregulated in PC tissues compared with normal samples. A low level of miR-1301-3p was associated with malignant pathological differentiation, lymphatic metastasis, tumor residual, and unsatisfactory overall survival. Gene Ontology analyses indicated that miR-1301-3p possibly regulated cell cycle and adheren junction. In vitro assays showed that miR-1301-3p suppressed proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of PC cells. Mechanically, miR-1301-3p inhibits RhoA expression, and knockdown of RhoA upregulated E-cadherin; however, downregulated N-cadherin and vimentin level.Conclusions: MiR-1301-3p acts as a prognostic biomarker for PC and inhibits PC progression by targeting RhoA induced EMT process.
Cardiovascular Risk Profile in Dupuytren’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Authors: Mathieu Sylvain , Pereira Bruno , Dutheil Frederic , Soubrier Martin
Published: September 2020

Background. Patients with Dupuytren’s disease (DD) may have a higher cardiovascular (CV) risk because of association with diseases with a higher recognized CV risk, such as diabetes. However, DD is not always linked to these diseases; therefore, it seems relevant to assess the CV profile in DD.Methods. We performed a systematic literature review up to April 2020. Differences between DD patients and controls were expressed as standardized mean differences using the inverse-variance method or as odds ratios (ORs) using the Mantel-Haenszel method. Results. We obtained 51 references corresponding to 112,900 DD patients and 2,383,177 controls. We found a higher risk of death (OR=1.72 [95%CI:1.37-2.16]) and CV death (118/974 DD patients vs. 372/3948 controls; OR=1.33 [95%CI:1.07-1.66]) among DD patients compared to controls. DD patients were more often diabetic (OR=3.44 [95% CI:2.69-4.38]). In 17 studies of the general population, the incidence of diabetes was 17.5% among DD patients (11.7-24.2%). DD patients were older, and more often men or alcohol drinkers. The percentage of smokers and levels of blood pressure or total cholesterol were not different among DD patients and controls. No difference was found in triglycerides, but the risk of obesity was significantly lower in DD patients.Conclusions. We found a higher CV risk in DD but not a higher prevalence of CV risk factors, except diabetes. This may be due to the predominance of men or greater number of alcohol drinkers or diabetics. Management of CV risk is important in patients with DD, including research on alcohol consumption or diabetes.
Spontaneous Conception Following Laparoscopic Surgery in Women with Infertility at The Yaoundé Gyneco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital: A Cross-Sectional and Analytical Study
Authors: Fopoussi Marie Noelle Mokam , Ndoua Cyrille Claude Noa , Djuikwo Felicite , Sandie Arsène Brunelle , Ojong Samuel , Foumane Pascal
Published: September 2020

Background : The infertility is a common health issue affecting many couples with a broad consequence on their lives. This study investigated the effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery for treating infertility in Cameroon.Methods : We conducted a cross-sectional, analytic study in order to determine the rate of conception and associated factors following laparoscopic surgery in women who presented with infertility, and treated at the Yaoundé Gynaeco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital from January 1st 2007 to December 31st 2017.Results : The average age of the included patients was 32:2 4:9 years old. Married women and those with tertiary level studies were the most represented. The average duration of infertility stood at 4:6 2:8 years. The most common surgical procedures were adhesiolysis (86.1%) and neo-salpingotomy (55.4%). The conception rate after the endoscopic surgery was 39.3% (119/303). The associated factors were normal body mass index and the antecedent of two or more alive children.Conclusions : The study revealed the efficiency of laparoscopic surgery in the management of infertility.
Anti-inflammatory Property of the Essential Oil From Cinnamomum Camphora (Linn.) Presl Leaves and the Evaluation of Its Underlying Mechanism by Using Metabolomics Analysis
Authors: Chen Jiali , Tang Cailin , Zhou Yang , Zhang Rongfei , Ye Shaoxia , Zhao Zhimin , Lin Ligen , Yang Depo
Published: September 2020

Background: Cinnamomum camphora (Linn.) Presl has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for a variety of purposes. Our previous study indicated the antibacterial mechanism of the essential oil (EO) from C. camphora; however, the anti-inflammatory activity of EO and its underlying mechanism have not been clearly demonstrated. The present study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory principle and mechanism of EO.Methods: The anti-inflammatory activity of EO was evaluated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV2 microglial cells. Nitric oxide (NO) production was measured by NO assay kit. The mRNA expression levels of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-18 and IL-1β were examined by real time-PCR (RT-PCR). The secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in cell supernatants, including IL-6, IL-18 and IL-1β, were assessed by ELISA kits. Furthermore, the metabolic profile of BV2 microglial cells treated with or without EO was explored by GC-MS-based metabolomics analysis. Phosphofructokinase (PFK) and pyruvate kinase (PK) activities were detected by commercial kits.Results: EO significantly decreased the release of NO and the mRNA expression of iNOS in LPS-induced BV2 microglial cells. EO also attenuated LPS-induced increase in the mRNA expression and secretion of inflammatory cytokines including IL-6, IL-18 and IL-1β. 39 metabolites were identified with significantly different contents, including 21 upregulated and 18 downregulated ones, in the metabolomics analysis. Five pathways were enriched by shared differential metabolites. Additionally, compared with the control group, the glucose level was decreased, while the lactate level was increased, in the culture supernatant of LPS-induced BV2 microglia cells, which were reversed by EO treatment. Besides, compared to the LPS-treated group, the activities for PK and PFK in EO group were decreased by 17.59% and 18.23%, respectively.Conclusions: The EO from C. camphora acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, which might be mediated through attenuating the glycolysis capacity of microglial cells.
Changes in Microbiota and Metabolites Are Associated With Effects of Bile Acid Sequestrant on Icteric Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Ma Xiong , Li Bo , Zhang Jun , Chen Yong , Wang Qixia , Yan Li , Wang Rui , Wei Yiran , You Zhengrui , Li Yikang , Miao Qi , Xiao Xiao , Lian Min , Chen Weihua , Qiu Dekai , Fang Jingyuan , Gershwin M. Eric , Tang Ruqi
Published: September 2020

BackgroundIncreasing data suggests an interaction between bile acids (BAs) and intestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Bile acid sequestrants are widely used to bind BA in the intestinal lumen and therefore are posited to impact gut bacteria. Herein we aimed to investigate the effects of cholestyramine on the BA profile and gut microbiome in a cohort of icteric PBC patients. Results Thirty-three PBC patients were treated with cholestyramine and serum and stool samples were collected at baseline, 4 and 16 weeks. Shotgun metagenomic sequencing, targeted metabolomic profiling were performed. Following cholestyramine administration, patients exhibited a high inter-personal variability in remission of cholestasis, and were therefore dichotomized according to the decrease of total bilirubin. In general, BA profiling revealed a shift toward a more hydrophilic milieu, along with decreased circulating fibroblast growth factor 19 and increased active glucagon-like peptide 1. Gut microbial co-abundance networks showed distinct taxa interactions in subjects with superior remission (SR) and those with inferior remission (IR) at baseline. Compositional shifts of the microbiome in SR group were characterized with enrichment of two Lachnospiraceae species, typically producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). In contrast, Klebsiella pneumonia, a commensal pathobiont, was only increased in IR group. Correspondingly, patients with SR, but not IR, were marked by elevations of SCFAs including valeric acid and caproic acid. Finally, integrative analysis identified robust associations between the variations of microbiota, metabolites, and inflammatory cytokines in SR group, indicating potential mechanistic links.ConclusionsBeneficial responses caused by cholestyramine were closely related with compositional and functional alterations in gut commensal, highlighting the possibility of exploring bile acids-microbiota interactions for treating PBC.
Effect of Alkali Metal Ions on the Formation Mechanism of HCN During Pyridine Pyrolysis
Authors: Liu Ji , Zhao Wei , Fan Xin-rui , Xu Ming-xin , Zheng Shu , Lu Qiang
Published: September 2020

The present work aims at the effects of alkali metal ions (Na+, K+) on the NOx precursor formation during coal pyrolysis by employing the N-containing pyridine as the model compound. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used to elucidate the pyridine pyrolysis mechanism and pathways for the HCN formation. The calculation results indicate that Na+ and K+ have distinct influences on different pyrolysis reactions. The two alkali metal ions can facilitate the initial hydrogen transfer from C1 to N and C2, while it is the opposite situation for other hydrogen migration reactions. Both Na+ and K+ significantly reduce the activation energies for the C-C bond breakage and the formation of the triple bond, whereas the activation energies are increased for isomerization reactions. The two alkali metal ions modulate the rate-determining step of the pyrolysis process and promote the formation of HCN from pyridine by decreasing the activation energies of the rate-determining steps in different pathways.
Temporal changes in anthropogenic seismic noise levels associated with economic and leisure activities during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Nimiya Hiro , Ikeda Tatsunori , Tsuji Takeshi
Published: September 2020

Seismic noise of frequencies >1 Hz includes noise that is strongly related to human activities. Reduction in seismic noise during the COVID-19 pandemic has been observed worldwide as restrictions were imposed on numerous human activities to control outbreaks of the virus. In this context, we studied the effect of reduced anthropogenic activities during COVID-19 on the noise levels in the Tokyo metropolitan area, Japan, considering seasonal variation. A significant reduction in noise was observed during the emergency, including that of frequencies >20 Hz, which was associated with school activities. After lifting the state of emergency, noise reverted to previous levels immediately for weekdays, but gradually for Sunday. This was likely because economic activities instantly resumed post-emergency on weekdays; however, most people still continued to avoid non-essential outings on Sunday. We also observed seasonal variation related to school holidays, energy consumption, and industrial activity. Noise levels in the frequency range of 1–5 Hz were found to be related to construction activity, which increased in winter and gradually decreased from 2017. Our findings demonstrate that seismic noise can be used to monitor economic activities and movement of people at a local scale.
Separation of memory span and learning rate: evidence from behavior and spontaneous brain activity in older adults
Authors: Chen Shuyuan , Li Rui , Wang Pengyun , Li Juan
Published: September 2020

Objective: It is unclear how the ability to initially acquire information in a first learning trial relates to learning rate in subsequent repeated trials. The separation of memory span and learning rate is an important psychological dilemma that remains unaddressed. Given the potential effects of aging on memory and learning, this study investigated behavior and spontaneous brain activity in adults in the context of memory span and learning rate. Method: We enrolled a total of 758 participants, including 707 healthy older adults and 51 mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients. Sixty-five participants out of 707 completed resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning. Results: Behaviorally, memory span and learning rate were not correlated with each other in the paired-associative learning test (PALT) but were negatively correlated in the auditory verbal learning test (AVLT). This indicated that the relationship between memory span and learning rate for item memory might be differentially affected by aging. Interaction analysis confirmed that these two capacities were differentially affected by test type (associative memory vs. item memory). Additionally, at the level of brain activity, distinct directions of correlation coefficients and brain regions for memory span and learning rate were detected using correlation analysis between behavioral performance and spontaneous brain activity. Regarding pathological aging, none of the correlations between memory span and learning rate were significant in either PALT or AVLT in MCI. Conclusion: This study provides novel evidence for the dissociation of memory span and learning rate at behavioral and brain activity levels, which may have useful applications in detecting cognitive deficits or conducting cognitive interventions.
Field Test Evaluation of Educational Software: A Description of One Approach
Authors: Tovar Mariela , Barker Nicholas
Published: September 2020

Educational evaluators in general have traditionally recognized the need to incorporate data from potential users in designing evaluation studies. In the field of courseware evaluation, however, there has been a great deal of emphasis placed on expert judgment as a source of data for evaluating computer-based educational materials. Although courseware reviews are extremely useful, they are not substitutes for field tests;each provides a different type of information that evaluators may use in order to determine the quality of an instructional product.This paper reports on the evaluation of a courseware designed to assist the writing of the lower-case alphabet. The main objective of the article is to demonstrate an evaluation design which provided adequate answers to our evaluation questions, allowed us to perform multiple comparisons to support our conclusions, and was also practical enough to be used in a normal classroom situation without disturbing everyday activities. Three criteria for selecting a design are presented followed by a description of the courseware evaluation.
Media, Mental Skills and Learning Tasks: The Interplay of Research and Instructional Design
Authors: Winn Bill
Published: September 2020

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Communications Technology and Health Education
Authors: McMullan Pat
Published: September 2020

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Artificial Intelligence and its Implications for Education
Authors: Kann Laura
Published: September 2020

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Canadian History and Media
Authors: Mahe J. C.
Published: September 2020

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Segment TV = Teacher Interest + Student Learning
Authors: Lewis Richard L.
Published: September 2020

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Children's Perception, Retention, and Preference of Asymmetrical Composition in Pictures
Authors: Metallinos Nikos
Published: September 2020

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Videotex as a Tool for Health Promotion
Authors: Bourque Michel , Perreault Robert
Published: September 2020

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Time to Quit
Authors: Wilson Elinor
Published: September 2020

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Use of Learning Objects for Computer Programming-Based Problem Solving
Authors: Basuhail Abdullah Ahmad
Published: September 2020

This paper presents an approach to implement learning objects for teaching and learning problem-solving techniques based on computer programming. The demonstrated approach exploits computer-based interactive animations and computer graphics. The main feature of this approach is its simplicity for exploring the concepts and structures of the programming that are used to implement a solution for a problem under consideration. The developed learning objects feature the possibility of reusability and adaptability in e-learning settings. Moreover, the learning objects can be utilized as a hands-on experience for the learners of a certain subject matter. The approach applied for the design and implementation of the learning objects for computer programming-based problem solving can be extended to other disciplines of science and technology. As a demonstration of the proposed methodology, we showed an application that utilizes the approach to implement a learning object for solving a well-known statistics and probability problem.
Teaching, learning, literacy in our high-risk high-tech world: A framework for becoming human, 2017. By J. P. Gee. Teachers College Press. 184 pages. ISBN 978-0-8077-5860-1
Authors: DeWaard Helen J.
Published: September 2020

In this book Gee draws on years of study in literacy, learning, and gaming culture to reconceptualize a future for education that confronts current global issues of peace, sustainability, and the battle for human dignity. Gee takes a deeper dive into how human development impacts teaching, learning, and literacy in today’s complex, tech infused world. This book offers insights in light of current global pandemic contexts. Gee suggests that teaching, learning, literacy, and the use of technology should start from a place of goodwill, while acknowledging that education spans within, across, and beyond the boundaries of home and/or school-based contexts.
The Change in Attitude of Nigerians towards COVID-19
Authors: Aborode Abdullahi Tunde , Ekott Marvelene Bassey , Ogunsola Samuel Olarenwaju
Published: September 2020

Since the discovery of COVID-19 in March 2020 in Nigeria different behavioural change has been observed amidst the citizens of the country towards the pandemic. At first, people were afraid of the pandemic and this was confirmed through their response to the measures given by the National Centre for Disease Control which include social distance, use of nose masks and sanitizers, curfew, and lockdown of crowded places. These measures have been effective in curbing the transmission of the disease in the country. In Nigeria, as at June 26th have 23,298 cases, 8,253 discharged cases and 554 deaths caused by COVID-19. Of recent, change in the attitude of people towards the pandemic has been observed as they no longer fear the impacts of the pandemic. People now go out without using their facemasks, churches are opening and some are even spreading false information about the pandemics. Pitifully, the number of cases in Nigeria has increased drastically in the past 3 weeks.
An Overview on Drug Evolution and Trials on Pandemic COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Varshney Munendra Mohan , Sharma Avantika
Published: September 2020

The disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV2) is highly pathogenic and communicable infection, progressed in Wuhan city of China and then around the world. The Genomic investigations shows that phylogenetically SARS-CoV2 resembles the other SARS-like bat viruses, therefore bats were also considered as the possible potential reservoir for SARS-CoV2. COVID-19 pandemic has presented considerable challenges to public health care system at global scale. Novel COVID-19 virus is member of corona Viridae family. Drug evolution and alternative therapy has come in the focus prominently in the treatment of COVID-19 infection. Although, clinical trials, also be in faster rate in all over the world. A number of drugs which were previously used against SARS-CoV-2 infection such as Remdesevir, Lopinavir, Ritonavir, Interferon beta-1b and Ribavirin, but they are being tested in randomised trials and show less prominent effects. In the review we summarized the latest research progress nationally and internationally on treatment and clinical trials of COVID-19 pandemics.
Human Immune Response to COVID-19 Infection and Potential Role of Chloroquine Family of Drugs
Authors: Singh Sunita , PS Chandra Shekharaiah , Paul Vishal , Kodgire Santosh , Kushwaha Shivbachan , Sanyal Debanjan , Dasgupta Santanu
Published: September 2020

Currently, world is witnessing a massive morbidity and mortality due to COVID-19 pandemic.  A novel strain of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The virus enters inside the body and infect the cells through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The S1 protein of SARS-CoV-2 binds to the ACE2 receptor which results in endocytosis and transfer of virus into endosomes of body cells. Entry of SARS-CoV-2 results in activation of innate immune responses first followed by adaptive immune responses. The effective host immune responses are crucial to control and prevent viral infection. However, excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines and decrease in number of T-lymphocytes are the major reasons associated with severity of COVID-19. Therapies and drugs that can modulate the immune responses appropriately may play a crucial role to control and prevent the progression of disease. Chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antitumor, antimicrobial and antithrombotic effects. These drugs have already been registered in many countries to treat arthritis, lupus and malaria. The treatment responses of COVID-19 patients to these drugs have been found positive in some cases and clinical studies are underway for evaluating these drugs for the same. However, there are some serious side effects and health hazards associated. Many regulatory bodies are demanding more conclusive data on efficacy and safety from the clinical studies. Moreover, some regulatory bodies such as Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) have recommended to use these drugs in emergency and chronic situation to treat critically ill COVID-19 patients under doctor’s supervision with all issued guidelines. The national task force (NTF) set up by Indian Council of Medical Research has recommended high risk individuals to take HCQ for prophylaxis. This review summarizes human immune response and various aspects of CQ and HCQ with special reference to COVID-19.
New Approaches to Spray Disinfectants to Fight Coronavirus
Authors: Juikar Siddhi J , G Raja KrishnaKumar
Published: September 2020

Our world is facing an unprecedented public health and economic crisis due to COVID-19. In this toughest challenging time, we are proposing some effective & affordable techniques for spraying disinfectants on each house, streets and roads of nation to help humanity to cope up with this calamity. We propose new spraying techniques and different type of disinfectants to disinfect larger areas repeatedly using two wheelers and other automobiles where larger vehicles can’t access and disinfect routinely. This will be effective in current as well as post lockdown pandemic era because very large population is involved in this movement andcommon public areas will be disinfected repeatedly and regularly without energy consumption.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Dietary Habits of Middle-Class Population in Mulund, Mumbai, India
Authors: Mehta Vidhi
Published: September 2020

In India, the SARS-CoV-2 COVID-19 pandemic has grown to 112,359 cases and 3,435 deaths as per 21st May, 2020. The severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) affected the world with 4,893,186 cases and 323,256 deaths as of 21st May, 2020. The WHO declared the outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern on 30th January, 2020 and it was declared as a pandemic in March 2020. Clinical studies conducted on hospitalized cases show that the onset of COVID-19 is associated with symptoms commonly associated with viral pneumonia, most commonly fever, cough/sore throat and myalgia/fatigue. COVID-19 world pandemic imposed a new set of challenges for the individual to maintain a healthy diet. When compared to the USA, India is currently facing lesser cases of the pandemic because of early implementation of the preventive measures such as a lockdown. Because of the lockdown imposed, India has and is facing a downfall in every aspect, such as the economy, the agriculture, the health sector, the IT and management sectors and also tourism. This in turn, will have a negative impact on the quality of life and economy in India. The present paper aims to find out the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the health sector and is based on the results obtained from a survey about the eating patterns of participants from Mulund, Mumbai, India. It was seen that the mental stress caused due to the pandemic had an effect on the dietary behaviors of the participants.
Association between Thiopurines Use and Pregnancy Outcomes in Female Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yang , Li Dandan , Guo Heng , Wang Weina , Li Xingang , Shen Su
Published: September 2020

Background:

Conflicting data exist regarding the influence of thiopurines exposure on adverse pregnancy
outcomes in female patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Objective:

The aim of this study was to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive assessment of the safety of thiopurines in
pregnant IBD women.

Methods:

All relevant articles reporting pregnancy outcomes in women with IBD received thiopurines during pregnancy
were identified from the databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov) with the publication data
up to April 2020. Data of included studies were extracted to calculate the relative risk (RR) of multiple pregnancy outcomes:
congenital malformations, low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth, small for gestational age (SGA), and spontaneous
abortion. The meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model.

Results:

Eight studies matched with the inclusion criteria and a total of 1201 pregnant IBD women who used
thiopurines and 4189 controls comprised of women with IBD received drugs other than thiopurines during pregnancy
were included. Statistical analysis results demonstrated that the risk of preterm birth was significantly increased
in the thiopurine-exposed group when compared to IBD controls (RR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.00-1.79;
p=0.049; I2 =41%), while no statistically significant difference was observed in the incidence of other adverse
pregnancy outcomes.

Conclusion:

Thiopurines used in women with IBD during pregnancy is not associated with congenital malformations,
LBW, SGA, or spontaneous abortion, but appears to have an association with an increased risk of
preterm birth.
The Effects of P75NTR on Learning Memory Mediated by Hippocampal Apoptosis and Synaptic Plasticity
Authors: Tang Jun-Jie , Feng Shuang , Chen Xing-Dong , Huang Hua , Mao Min , Wang Hai-Yan , Li Sen , Lu Xiu-Min , Wang Yong-Tang
Published: September 2020

Neurological diseases bring great mental and physical torture to the patients, and have long-term and
sustained negative effects on families and society. The attention to neurological diseases is increasing, and the
improvement of the material level is accompanied by an increase in the demand for mental level. The p75 neurotrophin
receptor (p75NTR) is a low-affinity neurotrophin receptor and involved in diverse and pleiotropic effects
in the developmental and adult central nervous system (CNS). Since neurological diseases are usually accompanied
by the regression of memory, the pathogenesis of p75NTR also activates and inhibits other signaling
pathways, which has a serious impact on the learning and memory of patients. The results of studies shown
that p75NTR is associated with LTP/LTD-induced synaptic enhancement and inhibition, suggest that p75NTR
may be involved in the progression of synaptic plasticity. And its proapoptotic effect is associated with activation
of proBDNF and inhibition of proNGF, and TrkA/p75NTR imbalance leads to pro-survival or proapoptotic
phenomena. It can be inferred that p75NTR mediates apoptosis in the hippocampus and amygdale, which may
affect learning and memory behavior. This article mainly discusses the relationship between p75NTR and learning
memory and associated mechanisms, which may provide some new ideas for the treatment of neurological
diseases.