bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual Screening to Identify Pathogenic Functional Mutations in the Exon of ACTN3 Gene, Which Codes for Masseter Muscle, Thereby Affecting Mandibular Morphology
Authors: Jayaseelan Vijayashree Priyadharsini , George Ashwin Mathew , Felicita A Sumathi , Arumugam Paramasivam
Published: June 2022

Aim:

To determine if In silico methods can be used to identify pathogenic non-synonymous variants in the ACTN3 (alpha actinin 3) alpha actinin gene that encodes for alpha actinin 3 three protein employing computational tools.

Materials and Methods:

In silico methods of detecting pathogenic variants were initiated by identifying 854 reported non-synonymous mutations in the ACTN3 gene from the Ensembl database. The non-synonymous variants of ACTN3-201 (transcript ID: ENST00000502692.5) were derived from the Ensembl database. Variants found to be pathogenic were curated using SIFT tool (The Sorting Intolerant From Tolerant), PolyPhen2 (Polymorphism Phenotyping v2), and PROVEAN (Protein Variation Effect Analyzer). The panel of curated variants was analyzed for protein stability based on substituting existing amino acid residue with a variant encoded amino acid using IMutant 3.0.

Results:

Among 854 variants reported in the ACTN3 gene, 26 were found to be harmful, and possibly pathogenic. The SIFT tool identified 15 variants to be highly intolerant, PolyPhen2 identified two other variants as possibly damaging, and PROVEAN predicted two variants to be highly harmful. Finally, IMutant 3.0 showed that one (single nucleotide polymorphism) resulted in decreased stability of the ACTN3 protein.

Conclusions:

Applying in silico approaches can help researchers identify variants exhibiting putative association with the disease phenotype.
Environmental and Health Impact of Small-Scale Gold Mining Activities in Ibanda District of Uganda
Authors: Peter B. A. , Zakaria O. M. , Sabiki S. A.
Published: June 2022

In the recent past, artisanal small-scale gold mining activities in Kicuzi Subcounty, Ibanda District, Uganda, have had a severe influence on the environment and people's health. The study investigated the environmental and health impacts of small-scale. The questionnaires of 156 respondents were given to the Ibanda District's surrounding areas. The findings demonstrated that p-value is substantially associated with perception and the surroundings (p < 0.0005). The finding also demonstrates that p-value is substantially connected with the environment and health (p< 0.0005). The findings revealed that diarrhoea, skin illness, and injuries are the most common ailments in the population. As can be observed from the results, 75% of health workers admit that the health system in this municipality is not equipped to deal with mining-related health issues.
Potential Health Risk Assessment of Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Freshwater Organisms from Ojo River, Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Sanyaolu V. T. , Omotayo A. I. , Adetoro F. A.
Published: June 2022

This study investigated potential health risk associated with heavy metal bioaccumulation in freshwater organisms in Ojo River, Lagos, Nigeria. Liver, gills and muscle from fish samples and muscle and exoskeleton from crab samples were analysed for concentration of Cd, Cr, Zn, Pb, Ni and Cu using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer after digestion of samples. Generally, heavy metal concentration in water samples from different locations in Ojo River did not exceed WHO limits. Concentration of Pb, Cu, Zn and Cr in tissues of M. niger and L. campechanus shows high bioaccumulation of heavy metals. Heavy metals bioaccumulated more in liver > muscle > gills in both fish samples. Ni and Cd were not detected in the two fish species. Similarly, Pb, Cu and Ni were found in muscles and exoskeleton of C. pagurus and S. serrate at quantities higher than WHO limits. Zinc was detected only in muscle and not exoskeleton of both crab samples, while Cr was found only in exoskeleton of C. pagurus and Ni was not detected in all crab species. Estimated daily intake (EDIs) for Pb, Cu, Zn and Cr in M. niger and L. campechanus and for Pb, Cu and Ni in C. pagurus and S. serrate were higher than the oral reference doses. Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) for heavy metals were also extremely high. Significantly high bioaccumulation of heavy metals in freshwater organisms from Ojo River calls for serious actions because it is a major source of freshwater foods for residents of Lagos.
Effect of Hybrid Fillers of Bamboo Fiber and Commercial Glass Fiber on High Density Polyethylene Matrix
Authors: Oboh J. O. , Maliki D. , Ajekwene K. K. , Salako O.
Published: June 2022

The focus of this research work is to study the effect of hybrid fillers of bamboo fiber and commercial glass fiber on high density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix without interfacial coupling agent. The hybrid composite was formed through melt blending method using two-roll mixing mill at temperature of 160 oC and was shaped using compression molding machine. The highest value of Tensile Modulus at break and Hardness were obtained at hybrid ratio of 70 % of HDPE/ 15 % bamboo/ 15 % glass particles (H/B15/G15). However, the inclusion of the hybrid fillers did not show any significant difference in Impact strength from the molded blank HDPE samples (H/B0/G0) while the percentage water absorbed by the samples predominantly decreased as the content of the commercial glass filler was increase in the HDPE matrix.
Sustainable Environment: A Comprehensive Evaluation of the Effects of Gas flaring in the Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Uchegbulam I. , Aliyuda A. , John Y. M.
Published: June 2022

The objective of this review is to provide an extensive assessment of the impacts of gas flaring from the ancient to modern life conditions at the Niger Delta as an area of global significance was reviewed from Millennium development goal (MDG) sustainable environmental perspective. These effects of flared gas took so long to persist due to its underdeveloped market, technological deficiency in its conversion into profitable byproducts and/or reinjection into geologic reservoirs until when needed. Findings show that these upstream emissions from flared gas have led to precipitation of acid rain and anthropogenic emissions like GHGs, VOCs, PM and over 250 toxins that have caused innumerable adverse effects on the Niger Delta communities and to the global community as climatic changes and global warming. Categorically, the environmental effects ranged between air, soil, water, heat, light and noise pollution as well as loss of biodiversity, vegetation and inflicted severe impacts on the health, and socioeconomic destitution of the Niger Delta residents including deterioration of the houses they live and shoreline threats as a coastal habitat. Despite the Nigerian government’s achievements in recovering the accrued carbon debt through liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects and other strategic measures as attested by international agencies, yet a detailed discussion on the constraints to effective anti-flare deadlines were also highlighted. Also, suggestions for substantial sustainability of the Niger Delta was made towards a climatic justice and zero-carbon footprint.
Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters and Heavy Metals in Sagamu Abattoir Waste Water Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Jegede D. O. , Oluyomi J. F. , Shokunbi O. S. , Oyewola O. J. , Ogunnowo A. A. , Animashaun R. O. , Afolabi M. D.
Published: June 2022

Abattoir wastewater is a great threat to environmental safety. This study was aimed at assessing the physiochemical constituents using standard methods and some heavy metals using Agilent Microwave Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MP-AES) 4200 model after sample digestion of wastewater from three (3) major abattoirs in Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria. The sample was digested using a mixture of nitric acid, hydrochloric acid and hydrogen peroxide. The digested samples were then analyzed for heavy metals. Data from the physicochemical characterization show that pH, TS, TDS, TSS and COD ranged from; (5.8 – 6.2), (11500 – 27733.33), (5500 – 9066.67), (6000 – 18666.67), and (1507.67 – 3671) respectively. The assessed heavy metals are in the range (mg/L): Zn (0.132-0.337), Cu (0.091 – 0.516), Mn (0.410 – 0.994), Fe (5.294 – 15.44), V (0.132 – 0.32), Cd (0.036 – 0.119), Ni (0.029 – 0.17), Pb (0.136 – 0.234), Cr (0.299 – 1.277), and Co (0.015 – 0.079). Zn, Cu and Fe are essential metals within tolerable limits except Mn that exceeded the limits of World Health Organization (0.04 mg/L) but below Federal Ministry of Environment (5 mg/L) while Ni, Pb and Chromium are above permissible limits in all samples.  The pretreatment of the wastewater before discharging into environment is highly recommended and more research should be done on remediation to reduce the abattoir wastewater heavy metals concentration and the effect it is having on the ecosystem and the environment at large.
Spatial Distribution of Radiometric and Dosimetric Parameters in Soil Samples from Selected Areas in Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Ikoko N. L. A. , Briggs-Kamara M. A. , Sigalo F. B. , Amakiri A. R. C. , Ude H. N.
Published: June 2022

Radiation from radioactive materials/radionuclides in the environment enhanced by anthropogenic activities is presently of a great concern globally. The objective of this study is to determine the radiometric and dosimetric parameters from soil samples collected randomly from the study area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The samples were prepared using standard methods and analyzed with a high resolution Hyperpure Germanium Detector configuration (HPGe). The results showed the clay samples to have higher activity concentration to the sands samples with activity concentration of clay samples ranging between 68.99±9.05 –189, 42±21.11Bq/kg and the sand samples with activity concentration range of 17.95±5.87 – 38.59±7.43Bq/kg. The activity concentration spatial distribution map in clay lithologies showed 2 peak values trending north-west, while the sand lithology showed a single peak central distribution. The result also showed the values of the absorbed doses with the 8 clay samples values ranging between 59.09 - 155.25nGy/h and sand samples values between 17.90 – 33.92nGy/h. The spatial distribution of the dose showed 2 peak central distribution in clay samples and north-east trending distribution of high peak values for samples with sand lithologies.  In addition, the results showed an effective absorbed dose of range of 0.235-0.0616mSv/y for samples with clay lithology and 0.0071-0.0135mSv/y for samples with sand lithology The activity concentration of all the samples studied are below the 1000Bq/kg international reference limit  for Radium 226, Thorium 232, uranium 238 and 10,000Bq/kg for potassium 40. The absorbed dose rate and annual effective absorbed dose are also below the international reference limits published by ICRP, 2007 and UNSCEAR, 2000 publications. Also, effective activity maximum limit of 370Bq/kg for input raw materials for public building is not exceeded.
Bacteriological Profile of Palm Oil Sale Sites in Selected Markets in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Ocheni P. , Orukotan A. , Sylvester N. I. , Adeyemi S. L.
Published: June 2022

The bacteriological profile of palm oil sale sites in selected markets in Kaduna state, Nigeria were evaluated using standard techniques by collecting a (60) soil samples. Aside from bacteriological profile, pH, moisture content, temperature and lipase activity analyzed. The soil samples had pH that ranged from acidic to neutral (3.0-8.00) which indicates the presence of hydrolytic enzymes. Microorganisms isolated from soil samples palm oil sale sites were screened from their lipase producing ability. A total of (10) ten bacteria belonging to the genera Bacillus, Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, Streptobacillus, Micrococcus, Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas. The lipolytic activity of the bacteria when screened on solid agar ranged for 1.1 to 3.2cm, 2.3-3.7cm, 2.3-6.7cm at 24, 48 and 72hours respectively while that of fungal species ranged from 0.6 to12cm, 0.3-1.5cm and 1.1-1. 7cm at 3,7,14 days of incubation respectively. Exo-enzyme was produced from the various species screened for lipolytic activities. The study shows that Bacillus subtilis and Trichoderma spp. had high potential.
Self-Concept and Self-Efficacy as Determinants of Colleges of Education Students’ Performance in Shorthand in North-East, Nigeria
Authors: Umar M.J. , Abdulmutallib U.B.
Published: June 2022

The study examined the self-concept and self-efficacy as determinants of Colleges of Education students’ performance in shorthand in North-East, Nigeria. The study had two specific objectives, two research questions which were meant to guide the study and two null hypotheses which were tested at 0.05 level of significant. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design which is purely quantitative, using structured questionnaires which were administered to 360 randomly selected Business Education Students of Colleges of Education in North-Eastern Nigeria. Data collected was analyzed using mean and standard deviations while a simple linear regression was used in testing the hypotheses. The findings of the study revealed among others that study strategy and attitude have significant and positive influence on Performance of Business Education Students in shorthand in Colleges of Education in North-East, Nigeria. Hence, the consistent failure of Business Education Students in Shorthand particularly in Colleges of Education in North-East, Nigeria can be reduced. The present study recommend that shorthand lecturers should encourage Business Education Students in Colleges of Education to develop a good study self-concept and positive self-efficacy towards shorthand as these will improve the students’ Performance in the course and minimize the massive and consistent failure recorded among Business Education Students in shorthand. Specifically, in Colleges of Education in North-Eastern Nigeria.
Effect of Solution-Focused-Brief Counselling Technique on Procrastination Behaviour Among Primary School Teachers in Bauchi Metropolis
Authors: Garba H.K. , Tanko B.A.
Published: June 2022

This study determined the effect of Solution focused brief counselling technique on procrastination behaviour among primary school teachers in Bauchi metropolis, Bauchi State Nigeria. The study was guided by two research questions and hypotheses. A quasi-experimental design was used while all primary school teachers with procrastination behaviour in Bauchi metropolis were the population out which 27 teachers purposively selected were the sample for study. The Procrastination Scale developed by Lay (1986) with twenty (20) item questions was adapted by changing some items to suit present study. Items were mixed in the scale used as an instrument to avoid copy from each other for data collection; data collected were analyzed using t-test and analysis of covariance. Findings revealed that there is significant effect exist in the solution focused brief counselling technique on situational dimension procrastination behaviour among primary school teachers in Bauchi metropolis (t = 8.710. p=0.00). This implies that solution focus brief counselling technique is effective in reducing (situational dimension) procrastination behaviour among primary school teachers in Bauchi metropolis (7.417. p=0.00.). Among the recommendations given counsellors and psychologists should be trained and encouraged to use Solution focused; brief counselling technique to re-addressing primary school teachers with situational dimension or trait dimension of procrastination behaviour in Bauchi metropolis to enhance their teaching activities.
Literacy: A Way Forward for Quality Education in Nigeria
Authors: Usman Yau. , Isyaku Mohammed , Isah A. Tilde
Published: June 2022

This paper examines the assessment of literacy as a way forward for quality primary education in Nigeria. Literacy is a life-blood of an individual skills, knowledge, attitude and potentialities. Therefore, assessment in teaching and learning of English gives the teacher the evaluative picture of students’ linguistic background, language competency and the needs of the learner. moreover, the paper posits that multiple of assessments in reading and writing improve students’ level of proficiency in mastering the language. The paper also examines some types of assessment which gives the language teacher an advantage of choice of testing a particular skill be applied in teaching and learning of the basic language skills. However, the paper discussed the purpose of assessment in relation to literacy.
Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Distress Among Nursing Students in College of Nursing Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Musa Abubakar , Dauda M. Kala , Saba Y. Aisha
Published: June 2022

The relationship between Emotional Intelligence and psychological distress among students in College of Nursing, Gombe state. The research design for the study was Correlation design. A Null hypothesis was formulated to guide the study. The population was all the students of the College of Nursing Gombe. ‘Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test’ (SSEIMT) ‘Scale and ‘Kessler Psychological Distress Scale’ were adapted and used as Instruments for data collection. Two experts from the department of Educational Foundation Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi validated the two instruments. The internal consistency of the instruments showed Cronbach’s, for emotional intelligence scale is 0.86 and 0.64 for Psychological Distress scale respectively. Two hundred and twenty-five (225) Nursing students participated in the study. Ethical approval was obtained from the College Management. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to analyze the Null hypothesis. The findings of the study revealed that, most of the participants had high level of emotional intelligence and were experiencing low degree of psychological distress; it was concluded that the higher the level of emotional intelligence the lower experiencing of psychological distress by the Nursing students. Therefore, it is recommended that further exploration to better understanding of emotional intelligence and Psychological distress. Moreover, there is need to include coping strategies in the Nursing curriculum to enhance managing the emotional intelligence.
Effect of montelukast/budesonide formoterol powder inhalation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Chen Zuoping , Qian Xiaojun
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the clinical efficacy of montelukast/budesonide formoterol powder inhalation in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and its impact on serum high-sensitivity Creactive protein (hs-CRP), cancer antigen 125 (CA-125), and interleukin (IL)-6 levels.Methods: In total, 86 COPD patients treated in the clinic of Department of Respiratory Medicine inYichun People’s Hospital between December 2019 and December 2020 were recruited and randomly assigned to group A and group B alternately at the point of admission. Group B received conventional treatment, while group A was treated with conventional treatment plus montelukast/ budesonide formoterol powder inhalation.Results: Patients receiving montelukast /budesonide formoterol powder inhalation showed lower scores for cough, sputum, and shortness of breath, compared conventional treatment (p < 0.001). Patients in group A showed lower serum levels of hs-CRP, CA-125, and IL-6 after treatment than those in group B (p < 0.05). Pulmonary function and arterial blood gas indices were significantly different between the two groups after treatment (p < 0.05). Montelukast /budesonide formoterol powder inhalation resulted in higher Generic Quality Of Life Inventory-74 (GQOLI-74) scores and 6-min walking distance (6MWD) scores in patients than conventional treatment (p < 0.001). Also, Group A had a lower incidence of adverse reactions than group B (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Montelukast/budesonide formoterol powder inhalation has a better therapeutic effect versus conventional treatment, and improves patients' lung function and exercise tolerance. Further clinical trials are, however, required prior to general use in clinical practice.
Peiminine regulates the biological characteristics of colorectal cancer cells via P13K/Akt/mTOR and oxidative stress pathways
Authors: Jin GuiLin , Luo Zhen , Fen Mingke , Xu Lijun
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the influence of peiminine on biological characteristics of colorectal cancer cells, and the underlying mechanism.Methods: Two groups of cultured human colorectal cancer HCT-116 cells were used: peiminine and control groups. Peiminine group cells were exposed to the drug at a final concentration of 100 μmol/L. The effect of peiminine on cell proliferation was determined with CCK-8 method, while its effect on apoptosis was determined with flow cytometric method. Cell migration was determined with scratch test. The effect of peiminine on the expressions of proteins associated with the P13K/Akt/mTOR pathway and Wnt/β-catenin pathway in HCT-116 cells was determined with Western blotting assay.Results: Cell proliferation was markedly reduced in the peiminine group, relative to control (p < 0.05). There was higher percentage cell apoptosis in peiminine-treated cells than in control. Moreover, cell migration potential was significantly lower in the peiminine-treated cells. There were significantly downregulated levels of p-P13K, p-Akt and p-mTOR expressions in peiminine group, relative to the corresponding control expressions (p < 0.05). However, there were significantly higher relative expression of Wnt in peiminine group than in control cells, but β-catenin level was reduced, relative to the corresponding control level (p < 0.05).Conclusion: These data indicate that peiminine suppresses the proliferative, apoptotic and migratory potential of colorectal carcinoma HCT-116 cells via regulation of P13K/Akt/mTOR and oxidative stress pathways.
Concurrent administration of amiodarone and atenolol in the treatment of coronary artery disease complicated with arrhythmia, and its effect on serum levels of CD40L, TNF-α and IL-6
Authors: Li Dejin , Tang Chengyue , Xu Liqiong , Jin Xin , Wu Jianli , Ran Jiuju , Chen Anfang
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of the combination of amiodarone and atenolol in the treatment of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) complicated with arrhythmia, and its effect on serum levels of CD-40L, TNF-α and IL-6.Methods: One hundred and twenty CAD patients with arrhythmia on admission in The First People'sHospital of Shuangliu District Chengdu, China were assigned to groups A and B, each having 60 patients. Amiodarone was administered to all the patients, while atenolol was additionally given to patients in group A. Levels of heart function indicators, inflammatory factors, blood pressure, heart rate, adverse reaction rate (ARR) and overall efficacy were evaluated for the two groups.Results: There were significantly improved levels of heart function indicators, and lower levels of CD40L, TNF-α and IL-6 in group A, when compared with group B (p < 0.001). Moreover, treatment effectiveness was higher in group A than in group B (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in ARR between groups A and B.Conclusion: The combined use of amiodarone and atenolol improves heart function indicators in patients with CAD and arrhythmia, reduces the levels of inflammatory factors, normalizes blood pressure and heart rate, and lowers ARR. However, further clinical trials on this combined therapy are required prior to its use in clinical practice.
Effect of modified Wenyang Buxin decoction and routine therapy on cardiac function and serum levels of H-FABP, cTnI and Ang-2 in chronic heart failure patients
Authors: Qian Chengsi , Sun Yan
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of modified Wenyang Buxin decoction and routine therapy on cardiac function and serum levels of heart-type fatty acid binding protein (H-FABP), cardiac troponin-1 (cTnI) and angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) in chronic heart failure (CHF) patients.Methods: A total of 120 CHF patients admitted to Zhejiang Province Rongjun Hospital (from January2019 - January 2020) were selected for this study. They were randomly but equally distributed into groups A and B. All patients were given routine therapy such as diuretic treatment and detumescence, while those in group A received 150 mL of modified Wenyang Buxin decoction daily, in addition to routine therapy. At 2 months after therapy, cardiac function indices, serum H-FABP, cTnI and Ang-2 levels, hemorheology indices, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome scores, and Chinese questionnaire of quality of life in cardiovascular patients (CQQC) scores of the two groups were evaluated.Results: After therapy, cardiac function indices, serum H-FABP, cTnI and Ang-2 levels, hemorheology indices as well as TCM syndrome score and CQQC score were significantly improved in group A, when compared with corresponding values in group B (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Modified Wenyang Buxin decoction and routine therapy improves serum biomarker levels, cardiac function and quality of life, and relieves clinical symptoms of CHF in patients. Therefore, this treatment approach may be useful in the management of CHF patients.
Effect of beraprost sodium on renal function and p38MAPK signaling pathway in rats with diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Xie Liangxiao , Dong Jiajia , Wu Jinzhi , Wei Changshun , Xu Kezhen , Lai Pengbin , Zha Xiaoyun
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of beraprost sodium (BPS) on renal function and P38MAPK pathway in diabetic nephropathy (DN) rats.Methods: Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (n = 30) were randomly divided into three groups, viz, normal control (NC), diabetic nephropathy (DN) and beraprost sodium (BPS). Creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and fasting blood glucose (FBG), were determined by Hitachi 7020 automatic biochemical analyzer, while low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) were measured by Olympus 400 automatic biochemical analyzer. Western blot analysis was performed to examine protein expression. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), hs-CRP, and TNF-α levels were evaluated using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Results: After 8 weeks of treatment, renal function indices (urine output, KW/BW, UAlb/24 h, Cr and BUN), blood lipid indices (FBG, LDL-C, TG and TC) and inflammatory factors levels (IL-6, hs-CRP and TNF-α) in DN group were higher than NC group (p < 0.05). In BPS group, renal function and blood lipid indices and inflammatory factor levels decreased when compared to DN group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, BPS inhibited the protein expression of p-P38MAPK, TGF-β1 and COX-2.Conclusion: Beraprost sodium improves renal function in DN rats by inhibiting P38MAPK signalingpathway.
Glycitin exerts anticancer effect on human lung cancer cells through induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and inhibition of PI3K/AKT signal pathway
Authors: Zhang Yajuan , Guo Rui , Wang Yan
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To determine the effect of glycitin on PI3K/AKT signaling, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and cell cycle in A549 lung cancer cells.Methods: 3-[4,5-Dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and clonogenic assays were used to determine the proliferation and colony generation potency of A549 cells, respectively, after treatment with glycitin (0 - 120 μM). Apoptosis in A549 cells was measured using DAPI and Annexin V/PI-FITC assays. Cell cycle arrest was assessed byflow cytometry, while the effect of glycitin on migration and invasion of A549 cells was determined by Transwell assay. The effect of glycitin on expressions of proteins associated with PI3K/AKT signaling in A549 cells was measured using western blotting.Results: Glycitin significantly inhibited the proliferation and colony generation potential of A549 cells (p < 0.05). The antiproliferative effects of glycitin on A549 cells were mediated through stimulation of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at G0/G1-phase. The compound also distorted normal cellular morphology by causing membrane damage and nuclear fragmentation. The proportion of cells in the G0/G1-phase increased after glycitin treatment, when compared to the other two phases, demonstrating cell cycle arrest (p < 0.05). Glycitin suppressed the migration and invasion of A549 cells. However, Western blotting results showed that glycitin down-regulated the expressions of PI3K/AKT signaling proteins in A549 cells (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Glycitin produced significant anticancer effect on A549 cells via enhanced apoptosis, induction of cell cycle arrest, and inhibition of PI3K/AKT signalling. Moreover, it suppressed the migration and invasion of A549 cells. Therefore, glycitin is a potential lead molecule for the development of a therapeutic agent for invasive lung cancer.
Effect of glaucocalyxin B on the protein expressions of PTEN, Beclin1 and LC3 in a mouse model of transplanted cervical cancer, and its significance
Authors: Zhao Zheng , Han Zhengyang , Huang Cong , Yang Feixiang
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To determine the effect of glaucocalyxin B (GLB) on the protein expressions of PTEN, Beclin1 and LC3 in a mouse model of transplanted cervical cancer, and its significance.Methods: A mouse model of transplanted cervical cancer was established in female BALB/C mice. The model mice were divided into control group, low-dose GLB group and high-dose GLB group. Mice in low-dose and high-dose groups were given intraperitoneal injection of low-dose GLB and high-dose GLB, respectively. The volume and weight of transplanted tumor were measured and compared between the two groups. Serum levels of CEA and CA125 were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expressions of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), autophagy-related factor microtubule-associated protein-1 (Beclin-1), microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), apoptosis-related protein p53, and Bax were determined using SABC immunohistochemical operation.Results: On days 5, 10 and 15, the volume and weight of transplanted tumor, and levels of CA125 and CEA in low- and high-dose GLB groups were significantly and dose-dependently lower than those in control group (p < 0.05). Results from immunohistochemistry showed that the protein expression levels of PTEN, Beclin-1, LC3, p53 and Bax were significantly and dose-dependently higher in low- and highdose GLB groups than in the control group (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Glaucocalyxin B significantly and dose-dependently induces apoptosis of cervical cancer cells and inhibits their growth by regulating the protein expressions of PTEN, Beclin1 and LC3. Thus, glaucocalyxin B is a potential adjunct therapy in the management of cervical cancer.
TRIM52 promotes proliferation, invasion, and migration of gastric cancer cells by regulating Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Zheng Beiyi , Wang Jianhua , Wang Haozhen , Wang Wenling , Jin Yude
Published: June 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to reveal the role and mechanism of tripartite motif-containing 52 (TRIM52) in gastric cancer (GC) progression.Methods: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was utilized to analyze TRIM52 expression in GC samples and para-carcinoma tissue samples, and the results were confirmed by quantitative realtime polymerase chain reaction. Cell counting kit-8 and colony formation assays were used to evaluate cell viability. Wound healing assay was utilized to analyze cell migration, while Transwell assay was utilized to evaluate cell invasion. TRIM52, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, matrix metalloproteinase-2, Wnt5a, β-catenin, and c-Myc protein levels were measured by western blot.Results: TRIM52 was expressed more in GC tissue samples and cells compared to normal tissues and cells (p < 0.001). Overexpression of TRIM52 promoted growth, migration, and invasion of HGC-27 cells, and silencing inhibited growth, migration, and invasion of HGC-27 cells (p < 0.001). In addition, TRIM52 overexpression increased Wnt5a, β-catenin, and c-Myc protein expression, and silencing decreased Wnt5a, β-catenin, and c-Myc protein expression (p < 0.001 or p < 0.01), indicating that TRIM52 activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.Conclusion: These findings reveal that TRIM52 facilitates GC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, but activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
The Reconstruction of the Late Pleistocene and Holocene Vegetation Dynamics in Lake Eyasi Basin, Northern Tanzania
Authors: Bushozi Pastory M. , Mumbi Cassian T. , Muiruri Veronica M. , Mwitondi Musa S.
Published: June 2022

Lake Eyasi Basin of northern Tanzania plays a pivotal role in the study of human-environment interactions and in understanding human flexibility and adaptability through technological innovations over time and space. In this study, phytoliths from ancient soils and fossil pollen proxies from radiocarbon-dated sequences from Kisimangeda on the north-eastern edge of the Lake Eyasi Basin, are used to interpret trends in climatic changes recorded since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) to the present. We used pollen and phytolith abundances from a core that was recovered on the northern margin of saline Lake Eyasi at the depth of five metres. The application of principal component and cluster analysis, together with linear regression provides insight into dataset structure and grouping with reference to the modern comparative datasets that in turn allow us to classify the various palaeoenvironments and paleohabitats occupied by the late Later Stone Age, Pastoral Neolithic, and Iron Age inhabitants of Kisimangeda. The chronological order, pollen and phytolith records in the studied part of the basin signify palaeoenvironments analogous to the Somalia-Maasai bushland and grassland ecosystems of today.

Keywords:  Palaeoenvironments; Late Pleistocene; Holocene; pollen; phytoliths; human adaptation
Factors Influencing the Choice of Place of Delivery of a First Child among Nigerian Women
Authors: Adeniyi Olakiitan I , Afolabi Nathanael B , Akinrefon Adesupo A , Omekam Ifeyinwa V , Olonijolu Ifeoluwa R
Published: June 2022

Among the factors responsible for maternal deaths in developing countries is complications during pregnancy and childbirth, and as such, the choice of place for delivery is vital as the quality of attention received can either aid or reduce the risks attached to child bearing. This study seeks to statistically model factors that determine the place of delivery in Nigeria among women of reproductive age taking into consideration possible nesting structure in the mode of data collection. A two-level hierarchical multilevel logistic model with the individual women as the lower level and the state of residence as the second level was applied to 2018 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey (NDHS) data. Results showed that the odd of choosing a government or private facility reduced by 58.6% and 85.9%, respectively. Women in the rural areas are 12% and 20% less likely to choose either a government or private facility, additional education increases the odd of choosing any of the two facilities against home delivery. Other significant variables were wealth index, religion, assistance during labour and the number of antenatal visits.

Keyword: Place of delivery; Nesting; Multilevel Logistic Model; Odds and Antenatal Care
Quality of chronic care for patients with type 2 diabetes in practices with and without a Clinical Specialized Medical Assistant (CSMA) – a cross-sectional study from Switzerland
Authors: Ansorg Anna-Katharina , Tabea Jungo Katharina , Hilfiker Esther , Felber Rainer , Trageser Judith , Pierre Arnet Beat , Schenk Marianne , Streit Sven
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND: Due to Switzerland’s shortage of general practitioners (GPs), task shifting through interprofessional collaboration is needed to relieve GPs’ workload and allow the continued provision of quality care. The profession of specialized medical assistant (SMA) was created in Switzerland several years ago to provide a career advancement opportunity for medical practice assistants (MPAs) and intended to counteract the increasing scarcity of resources in primary care. Clinical specialized medical assistants (CSMAs) are trained to care for a set of chronic conditions, such as diabetes.
OBJECTIVE: We aimed to compare the quality of care for patients with type 2 diabetes in practices with and without CSMAs. Further, we aimed to investigate whether evidence exists that CSMA care models may allow for task shifting and the provision of interprofessional care while maintaining a high quality of care and to assess patient experiences with diabetes care in both care models.

METHODS: The present study was a paper-based cross-sectional survey of patient data. A total of 171 patients with type 2 diabetes who had been under the care of either a GP with CSMA (91 patients) or a GP without CSMA (80 patients) for at least one year were consecutively recruited for the study. Data were collected from mid-September 2020 to mid-June 2021. For the statistical analyses, we used descriptive statistics and t-tests.

RESULTS: Patients from both practice types were comparable in age, gender and diabetes-relevant factors such as Body Mass Index, smoking status and blood pressure. Overall, patients in both models received a high quality of care (Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire, DTSQ >32/36 points, SGED >75 points) and a low treatment burden (Treatment Burden Questionnaire, TBQ <20/150 points). When comparing patients’ DTSQ, SGED and TBQ in both groups, we found no significant differences in diabetes-specific satisfaction (32.1 [SD 3.6] vs. 32.4 [SD 3.8], p = 0.7), SGED score (80.2 [SD 8.5] vs. 75.9 [SD 4.8], p = 0.18) or treatment burden (19.2 [SD 15.6] vs. 18.8 [SD 21.4], p = 0.89).
CONCLUSION: Our comparison of patient-reported outcomes and SGED criteria of patients with type 2 diabetes in practices with and without CSMAs showed an equally high quality of care and a low treatment burden. More research is needed on the long-term effects and benefits of the care provided by CSMAs and which other tasks could be shifted to CSMAs to reduce the burden on GPs in the future. At the same time, an increasing number of patients with type 2 diabetes will require high-quality primary care.
Alborada iberyjska. Kobieca pieśń spotkania o świcie, XI–XVII wiek
Authors: Urban-Godziek Grażyna
Published: June 2022

Iberian Alborada. The Woman’s Song at the Dawn, 11th-17th Century The aim of the article is to define the genre of alborada, referring to its oldest Iberian forms, Mozarabic and Portuguese, and showing its evolution in the Early Modern Castilian poetry. This study will therefore serve as a basis for delineating the genre, which was present also in other European literatures, i.a. Polish from Renaissance to Romanticism. Iberian songs discussed here display a clear structure established in a long tradition and exploit the theme of lovers meeting at dawn, originating in the folk tradition, and implemented in Medieval formal courtly genres of kharja, cantiga de amigo (examples of Pero Meogo and Dom Dinis), and in 15th-century villancico, and entering other genres, most prominently sonnets, during the Renaissance. These multiple formal changes result in a gradual evolution of the lyrical subject of the alborada - the original complaint of a girl in love, a girl who is active and fighting for her happiness, has been transformed into a song of adoration and regret of a he-lover who serenades at nights for a lady who is mute and confined to the frame of her window. By this token, the history of the lyrical genre reflects the gradual removal of voices and subjectivity from women.
Awangarda odmieńców. Recenzja książki Joanny Krakowskiej: Odmieńcza rewolucja. Performans na cudzej ziemi, Wydawnictwo Karakter, Muzeum Sztuki Nowoczesnej w Warszawie, Kraków – Warszawa 2020, ss. 438.
Authors: Kmiecik Michalina
Published: June 2022

The avant-garde of queer people. On Joanna Krakowska’s Odmieńcza rewolucja. Performans na cudzej ziemi [A Queer Revolution. Performance in a Foreign Land].

The paper focuses on the book Odmieńcza rewolucja. Performans na cudzej ziemi (2020) by Joanna Krakowska. The author summarizes its main ideas and analyzes them in the context of recent discussions on queer and avant-garde.
Analisis Tindak Tutur Perlokusi Dalam Video Presiden Jokowi Perpanjang PPKM Level 4 Hingga 2 Agustus Dalam Channel Youtube Kompas TV
Authors: Aris Setiawan  , Amanda Sistiani  , Asep Purwo Yudi Utomo
Published: June 2022

Tindak tutur adalah sebuah produk dari ujaran kalimat pada suatu keadaan tertentu. Tindak tutur juga merupakan satuan paling kecil dari komunikasi bahasa yang dapat menentukan makna kalimat. Dalam penelitian ini, penulis akan lebih memfokuskan penelitian pada tindak tutur perlokusi yang ada di dalam video Presiden Jokowi Perpanjang PPKM Level 4 Hingga 2 Agustus yang terdapat di channel youtube Kompas TV. Dalam penelitian ini, penulis akan lebih memfokuskan penelitian pada tindak tutur perlokusi yang ada di dalam video Presiden Jokowi Perpanjang PPKM Level 4 Hingga 2 Agustus yang terdapat di channel youtube Kompas TV. Pendekatan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metodologis dan teoritis. Penelitian  pedekatan metodologis menggunakan deskriptif kualitatif dan pendekatan teoritis menggunakan pendekatan pragmatik. Penelitian ini mendapatkan hasil 12 tindak tutur perlokusi yang memiliki penanda tuturan melaporkan, menakut-nakuti, permintaan, perintah, melegakan, menyenangkan, ajakan, dan efek yang ditimbulkan dengan adanya tindak tutur perlokusi tersebut, yaitu efek takut, efek panik, efek melakukan kebijakan, efek melakukan permintaan, efek senang, efek menerima ajakan, efek melakukan perintah, efek menuruti perintah. Penelitian ini memiliki manfaat yaitu untuk menambah pengetahuan/informasi dalam bidang pragmatik khususnya pada jenis tindak tutur perlokusi beserta daya pengaruh yang ditimbulkan oleh tuturan tersebut.
Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Project Based Learning Untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Tematik Muatan IPA Siswa Kelas IV SD Negeri 4 Kelusa
Authors: Mahardika Komang , Widiastuti Ni Luh Gede Karang
Published: June 2022

Kegiatan pembelajaran dilaksanakan berdasarkan aturan-aturan yang tertuang pada kurikulum. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar tematik muatan  IPA Siswa Kelas IV SD Negeri 4 Kelusa melalui penerapan metode pembelajaran project based learning. Jenis penelitian ini merupakan penelitian tindakan kelas. Secara ringkas, penelitian ini dilaksanakan dalam dua siklus, meliputi empat tahapan yaitu ; Perencanaa, pelaksanaan, observasi dan refleksi. Sampel penelitian ini adalah siswa Kelas IV SD Negeri 4 Kelusa yang berjumlah 15 siswa terdiri dari 8 orang laki-laki dan 7 orang perempuan. Data hasil belajar tematik muatan  IPA siswa dikumpulkan dengan tes hasil belajar. Data yang telah dikumpulkan dianalisis dengan metode deskriptif kuantitatif. Adapun hasil penelitian yang diperoleh adalah peningkatan persentase hasil belajar tematik muatan  IPA siswa sebesar 7,3% dari 75,3% pada siklus I menjadi 82,6% pada siklus II. Ketuntasan klasikal Pra siklus sebesar 13% meningkat sebesar 47% menjadi 60% pada siklus I meningkat lagi 26% menjadi 86% pada siklus II. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian tersebut dapat disimpulkan bahwa penerapan metode pembelajaran project based learning dapat meningkatkan hasil belajar tematik muatan  IPA siswa Kelas IV SD Negeri 4 Kelusa.
Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Number Head Together (NHT) Dalam Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa
Authors: Lindawati  , Mokhammad Wahyudi
Published: June 2022

Berdasarkan observasi pada mata pelajaran IPS di MTs Ash-shiddiqiyyah Cempaka Kecamatan Plumbon Kabupaten Cirebon. Pembelajaran berfokus pada guru sedangkan siswa hanya duduk dan mendengarkan guru menjelaskan materi yang disampaikan sehingga siswa tidak mempunyai motivasi terlihat pada hasil belajar yang kurang memuaskan atau belum mencapai nilai kriteria ketuntasan minimum (KKM). Upaya untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa yaitu dengan menerapkan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Number Head Together (NHT).
Implementasi Manajemen Strategik Dalam Meningkatkan Jumlah Mahasiswa Baru Di Universitas Dwijendra
Authors: Aryawan I Wayan
Published: June 2022

Kondisi pandemi Covid-19 saat ini membuat hampir semua perguruan tinggi swasta khususnya di Bali mengalami penurunan jumlah mahasiswa. Hal ini disebabkan banyaknya orang tua dari calon mahasiswa mengalami pemutusan hubungan kerja. Di satu sisi jumlah mahasiswa merupakan salah satu indikator keberhasilan pengelolaan perguruan tinggi. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan implementasi manajemen strategik dalam pengelolaan perguruan tinggi dalam meningkatkan jumlah mahasiswa baru. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui implementasi manajemen strategik yang diterapkan di Universitas Dwijendra dalam meningkatkan jumlah mahasiswa baru mulai dari perumusan strategi, implementasi strategi, dan evaluasi strategi. Pendekatan kualitatif digunakan dalam penelitian ini, data dikumpulkan melalui wawancara, observasi partisipatif, dan studi kepustakaan. Tahapan analisis data dilakukan melalui reduksi data, penyajian data, serta penarikan kesimpulan/verifikasi. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa proses manajemen strategi yang diterapkan oleh Universitas Dwijendra dalam meningkatkan jumlah mahasiswa baru terdiri dari perumusan strategi yang diawali dengan analisis SWOT, kemudian dirumuskan alternatif strategi yang bisa diimplementasi antara lain: 1) promosi melalui media online dan offline; 2) mengadakan kegiatan lomba bagi siswa SMA/SMK baik tingkat provinsi maupun nasional; 3) kerjasama dengan pemerintah desa di wilayah Bali bersamaan dengan kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat; 4) keringanan biaya pendaftaran awal dan pendaftaran kembali; 5) pemberian reward/penghargaan bagi civitas akademika yang berhasil mendaftarkan mahasiswa baru; 6) kemudahan proses pendaftaran; dan 7) pemberian bantuan beasiswa bagi mahasiswa yang kurang mampu dan program studi langka peminat. Evaluasi dari implementasi strategi dilakukan melalui rapat evaluasi rutin setiap dua minggu sekali yang melibatkan pimpinan dengan tim promosi, tim kreatif dan pimpinan fakultas serta program studi.
Pengaruh Evaluasi Pembelajaran Terhadap Hasil Belajar Matematika Siswa di SDN Seberang Mesjid 1 Kota Banjarmasin
Authors: Mahrita  , Saidah Tunnoor
Published: June 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh evaluasi pembelajaran terhadap hasil belajar matematika siswa di SDN Seberang Mesjid 1 Kota Banjarbaru.Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh siswa SDN Seberang Mesjid 1 Kota Banjarmasin yang berjumlah 353 siswa, dan sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas V A SDN Seberang Mesjid 1 Kota Banjarmasin yang berjumlah 30 siswa. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif kuantitatif dan dijelaskan dengan metode deskriptif, dengan menggunakan dua variabel, meliputi evaluasi pembelajaran dan hasil belajar matematika siswa. Penelitian ini menggunakan alat penggali data angket dan dokumentasi. Data yang diperoleh diolah dan dianalisis secara statistik dengan menggunakan rumus regresi linier sederhana. Berdasarkan data yang ada, maka dapat disimpulan bahwa ada pengaruh evaluasi pembelajaran terhadap hasil belajar matematika siswa di SDN Seberang Mesjid 1 Kota Banjarmasin, yang berarti hipotesis alternatif (Ha) diterima dan H0 ditolak. Hal ini terbukti dari hasil analisis regresi yang memperoleh: Rhitung 0,413 > Rtabel, yaitu pada taraf signifikansi 5% Rtabel = 0,361. Berdasarkan perhitungan koefisien Diterminasi sebesar R2 = 0,413.