bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Media composition on Asymbiotic Seed Culture of Vanda tessellata : An Approach to In vitro Conservation
Authors: Aditya Sumana , Mondal Tustu , Banerjee Nirmalya
Published: January 2021

For initiation of seed germination and protocorm growth in Vanda tessellata (Roxb.) Hook. ex G. Don different media, namely Knudson’s C basal medium, modified Knudson’s C basal medium, Murashige and Skoog basal medium, Vacin and Went basal medium and Lindeman basal medium either alone or supplemented with vitamin or 0.1% peptone (w/v) were used. Vitamin mixture was consisted of nicotinic acid, pyridoxine and thiamine HCl at 1 : 1 : 10, respectively. For the initiation of germination, all the treatments exhibited promising results without showing significant variation. But the rate of survival of the germinated seedlings was remarkably low in all the basal media. Maximum survival rate of germinated seedlings was recorded in MS + 0.1% peptone. Necrosis of protocorms was a common phenomenon in all the treatments and 100% necrosis was recorded in LM basal medium and LM + vitamin. Addition of vitamin mixture and peptone in the basal media increased the rate of survival as well as differentiation of the germinated protocorms. Maximum rooted plantlets were recorded in VW + 0.1% peptone

Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 30(2): 285-295, 2020 (December)
Determinants of Uptake of Cervical Cancer Screening among Women Attending Tertiary Level Hospital
Authors: Ghimire Bijaya , Pathak Pratima
Published: January 2021

Background: Cervical cancer, being the fourth commonest cancer in women worldwide, is also the most frequent cause of cancer deaths among women in developing and underdeveloped countries. Screening is the gold standard to control the disease yet, its uptake is still very low among Nepalese women. Thus, the objective of this study was to find out the determinants of uptake of cervical cancer screening among women.Methods: Data were collected from a total of 220 women visiting gynecology outpatient department of Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu by using non-probability purposive sampling technique. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression analysis were applied.Results: The study findings revealed that the prevalence of uptake of cervical cancer screening was about one third (38.6%). Educational qualification had a significant association with the uptake of cervical cancer screening (p=0.017). Women’s age (COR=0.267; 95%CI=0.150-0.475), knowledge on availability of health services (COR=5.310; 95% CI=2.947-9.567), awareness on cost of screening services (COR=26.329; 95% CI=12.704-54.566), and knowledge level (COR=2.677; 95%CI= 1.385-5.173) had a significant association with the uptake of cervical cancer screening in bivariate analysis. Age (AOR=0.148; 95%CI=0.058-0.375) and awareness on cost of screening services (AOR=61.048, 95%CI=19.194-194.175) were found as major determinants of uptake of cervical cancer screening. Conclusions: The findings of this study conclude that the prevalence of uptake of cervical cancer screening was below half. Determinants of uptake of cervical cancer screening were age and awareness on the cost of screening services. So, awareness campaigns about cervical cancer screening are very necessary to increase its uptake and to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with it.Keywords: Cervical cancer screening; determinants; uptake
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ELECTRONIC WHITEBOARDS ON STUDENTS' READING SKILLS
Authors: Wahid Jusmin HJ , Irawan Iwan Irawan , Tidore Sumiyati Tidore
Published: January 2021

Technology has become a demand for students to master their reading skills. Technology right now plays an important role in the teaching and learning process. The lecturer are needed technology to improve their material and make their teaching are effective. It was expected that to apply the electronic whiteboard itself can use by the lecturer to design better ways for the students to acquire important information. It is realized that the fourth-semester students at the English Department of Khairun University are needed as much information on the electronic whiteboard as possible to improve their reading skills. This research is an experimental research that was held at the English Program at Khairun University Ternate. The experimental research involves two groups of students, they are the experimental group and the control group. The researcher used the English Program's fourth-semester students at Khairun University Ternate as a research sample. The result of the t-test in the experimental class shows that the mean score of the pre-test was 74.90 and the means score of the post-test was 81.90. It shows that electronic whiteboards in the experimental class experienced significant improvement in students reading skills. Then, the standard deviation in the post-test was 5.58 and the standard deviation in the pre-test was 4.38. It could be concluded that the students get significant progress in their reading skills after applying the electronic whiteboard.
THE INTERFERENCES OF SASAK LANGUAGE ON ENGLISH VOCABULARY MASTERY
Authors: Sugianto Sugianto , Kamarudin Kamarudin
Published: January 2021

The article is aimed at revealing some crucial languags interferences that happened to Sasak students who were learning English. The Sasak itself is a sub-Austronesian  language spoken by most citizens who live in Lombok and half of western Sumbawa. These language interferences play very important roles either in helping the students mastering eng English or challenging them. The positive interferences brought easiness to the students of Sasak to master English vocabularies. On the other hand, the negative interferences caused difficulties for students to learn English as their second language.The article say that defining the language interferences between Sasak and English brought some positive effects, particularly it is a real endeavor to help the lecturers, teachers, and instructors of English in conducting the teaching and learning practices. The research was conducted for the sake of findingpieces of evidences  of these interferences issues. The interview was conducted by involving Sasak students who were learning English. Moreover, a writing test of vocabulary was also conducted to confirm the existance of language interferences when they are producing English words. Went through the research, it was concluded that some morphemes that exited in the Sasak were a lot similar to morphemes existed in English. Positively, this  fact brought good effects on students who were learning English. Unfortunately, the accent in pronouncing those words was completely different, which then challenged the students to master the English vocabularies.
FOSTERING STUDENTS’ WRITING SKILL BY THE INTEGRATION OF MALL APPLICATION
Authors: Dwigustini Retno , Sari Novita , Susilawati Susilawati , Nisa Baiatun
Published: January 2021

Writing has been one of the most significant skill to acquire by high school students. In fact, students still find it difficult due to weak mastery of writing components and limited practice as well as exposure and facility. On these ground, utilizing MALL in hybrid learning setting is assumed to enhance their writing skill. Employing qualitative approach with classroom action research design conducted in 3 cycles, 20 high school students were involved in this study. The data were obtained using observation, test and interview. The findings suggested that online writing application can help promoting students’ writing skill proven by the score increase from cycle 1 to 3 as well as their participation. The students either perceived the MALL application positively.
ENHANCING ORAL PROFICIENCY USING THREE STEPS INTERVIEW TECHNIQUE FOR ELEVENTH GRADERS
Authors: Haryanti Dhena Usthiana , Indah Rohmati Nur , Wahyuni Sri
Published: January 2021

Enhancing students' abilities and potential is an important thing that every teacher must do gradually. The ability to speak in a foreign language is one of the skills that must be developed, which will benefit students in their learning process. The aim of this study is to enhance students' oral proficiency using Three steps interview technique for eleventh-grade students. Quasi-Experimental research design as a method applied in this study, to determine whether students are learning to use the technique Three Steps Interview has the ability to speak that better than the students who are taught using the technique of group discussion. This research involves two classes divided into an experimental class and a control class with 32 students in each class. Students received special treatment in the experimental class, namely, using the Three Steps Interview technique, while in the control class, the researcher applied the Group Discussion technique. The instrument used in testing students' oral proficiency was using a pretest before implementing learning techniques in each class and doing a posttest after applying learning techniques. The data analysis results showed that p(0.000)< significance level (0.05), which means that Three Steps Interview has significant effect as cooperative learning on oral proficiency, motivation and enthusiasm during the learning process. Thus, students can easily express their ideas and opinions confidently.
Pengembangan Modul Litosfer untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Mata Pelajaran Geografi pada Kelas X Sekolah Menengah Atas
Authors: Wa’dah Siti
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this research is to develop a lithosphere module for grade X SMA / MA students using the Dicky & Carey development model and to find out the effectiveness of the developed module. This research method uses research and development. The instruments used in this study were questionnaires and tests for each learning activity. The data analysis technique of this research uses descriptive statistical analysis. In this research, five modules have been developed, namely Module I (Structure of the Lithosphere Layer), Module 2 (Endogenous Energy), Module 3 (Exogenous Energy), Module 4 (Pedosphere), and Module 5 (Soil Erosion). Based on the results of field trials, this learning module has succeeded in showing benefits.
Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Ekonomi/Akuntansi Siswa Melalui Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Think Pair Share (TPS) di SMA Negeri 2 Aikmel
Authors: Sutanti Baiq Evi Aprian
Published: January 2021

This study aims to improve the learning outcomes of economic / accounting students in class XII IPS using cooperative learning type Think Pair Share (TPS) at SMA Negeri 2 Aikmel. The research method used is classroom action research which is carried out in two cycles where each cycle consists of four stages of activity, namely (1) action planning, (2) action implementation, (3) action observation, and (4) action reflection. . The research subjects were 27 students of class XII IPS at SMA Negeri 2 Aikmel in which 18 male students and 9 female students. This study also involved accounting subject teachers as collaborators. Data collection techniques include observation, tests, documentation, and interviews. While the data analysis technique used qualitative and quantitative descriptive analysis. The results showed that the economic / accounting learning outcomes of students in class XII IPS experienced an increase through cooperative learning type TPS at SMA Negeri 2 Aikmel with several indicators including an increase in student activism by 14%, an increase in student activeness in participating in cooperative learning type TPS as much as 16% , an increase in student activity in pair / group discussions by 20%, an increase in learning completeness by 15%, and an increase in student activeness in discussions that is greater than other indicators such as activeness and completeness of student learning outcomes.
Meningkatkan Kemampuan Reading Comprehension Siswa SMA Negeri 1 Kebomas Melalui Extensive Reading
Authors: Wahyuningsih Lilik Sri
Published: January 2021

This study aims to improve reading comprehension skills of SMA Negeri 1 Kebomas students through extensive reading. This research is a classroom action research conducted in three cycles by combining qualitative and quantitative methods. The sample of this research was students of class XI IPA 2 SMA Negeri I Kebomas. The research instrument used tests, observations, and questionnaires. The data analysis technique of this research is using descriptive analysis. The results of this study indicate that there is an increase in student reading comprehension learning outcomes as evidenced by an increase in test results during the study.
Métodos alternativos para alívio da dor no parto normal: revisão sistemática
Authors: Almeida Carla Franciane Santos de , Graepp-Fontoura Iolanda , Tavares Hanari Santos de Almeida , Lima Lilian Natália Ferreira , Santos Floriacy Stabnow , Santos Neto Marcelino , Fonseca Sheila Cristina Teixeira , Ribeiro Renata de Sá , Araújo Sônia Maria Neri de , Feitosa Marcela de Oliveira , Santos Romila Martins de Moura Stabnow , Lima Cynthia Cardozo Dias , Almeida Victor Fernando Matos de , Holanda Naiara Bárbara de Azevedo , Ribeiro Shueyd Borges , Silva Larissa Pereira da , Fontoura Volmar Morais
Published: January 2021

Os métodos alternativos para o alívio da dor têm a finalidade de tornar o parto o mais natural possível, reduzindo as intervenções desnecessárias e prejudiciais, segundo a Organização Mundial da Saúde, e resgatando a autonomia da parturiente. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar as terapias alternativas para o alívio da dor do parto normal na literatura disponível em diferentes partes do mundo. Foi feita uma revisão sistemática de literatura nas bases de dados PubMed®, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) e ScienceDirect de estudos publicados entre os anos de 2002 e 2019. A pesquisa ocorreu entre os meses de fevereiro a abril de 2020, conforme os descritores “parturição”, “terapias complementares”, “dor” e “parto normal”. Utilizaram-se as recomendações PRISMA e registradas no PROSPERO (CRD42020186056). Foram analisados 6.758 artigos. Foram incluídos 16 artigos para síntese qualitativa, envolvendo cinco países diferentes. Os estudos tiveram, em sua maioria, participantes primíparas, e, por critérios das inclusões, mulheres saudáveis e com risco habitual de pré-natal. Os 16 estudos envolveram dez técnicas não farmacológicas diferentes, sendo a acupuntura e o banho de aspersão com termoterapia quente as mais utilizadas. A maioria das terapias alternativas respondeu satisfatoriamente ao auxílio da dor do parto, além de não se apresentarem prejudiciais aos recém-nascidos. Os métodos alternativos no parto são abrangentes e colaborativos durante todo o processo gestacional e parturitivo, sendo estaticamente significativos em relação à dor e oportunizando uma gama de modelos que podem ser planejados e empregados pelas maternidades de modo fácil e econômico.
Potenciais e usos medicinais do jericó, Selaginella convoluta (Arn.) Spring, no bioma Caatinga: uma breve revisão
Authors: Novaes Thiago Emanuel Rodrigues , Novaes Ana Selia Rodrigues
Published: January 2021

A Selaginella convoluta (Arn.) Spring, conhecida popularmente como jericó, planta da ressureição, mão-de-sapo, mão-fechada ou pé-de-papagaio, é uma espécie nativa componente da flora do bioma Caatinga que é popularmente utilizada com finalidades terapêuticas. O objetivo do presente estudo é discorrer acerca dos potenciais medicinais do jericó (S. convoluta) na medicina popular nordestina, descrevendo suas propriedades e principais usos pela população. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, exploratório de caráter qualitativo, do tipo revisão de literatura, que utilizou 15 trabalhos de características experimentais e exploratórias como referencial para a realização desta pesquisa, encontrados na base de dados Google Acadêmico, por meio da busca com os seguintes termos: “Selaginella convoluta caatinga”, “jericó Selaginella convoluta”, “Selaginella convoluta”, “Selaginella convoluta medicina”, “Selaginella convoluta etnobotânica”, “Selaginella convoluta plantas medicinais” e “Selaginella convoluta comunidade”. Os dados foram organizados em quadros e tabelas no programa Microsoft Excel 365. Os resultados encontrados na literatura sugerem que o jericó é usado principalmente como antidepressivo, diurético, afrodisíaco, no tratamento de tosse, dislipidemia, amenorréia, problemas circulatórios, anti-hemorrágico, aumento da fertilidade feminina, analgésico e anti-inflamatório, por possuir propriedades antioxidantes, antimicrobianas, antifúngicas e antinociceptivas, em decorrência da presença de seus metabólitos secundários, sendo consumido nas formas de chás, xaropes e infusões. Dessa maneira, evidencia-se a Selaginella convoluta como um fitoterápico que possui muitas aplicabilidades na medicina, para alívio, tratamento e cura de enfermidades que acometem o sertanejo. Destaca-se ainda a imprescindibilidade da realização de mais estudos e publicações com a espécie, visto que ela pode ser muito útil para a população.
O Livro da Virtuosa Benfeitoria, os Espelhos de Príncipes e o ideal de governo renascentista na Dinastia de Avis (1385-1580)
Authors: Pereira Amanda Malheiros , Costa Célio Juvenal
Published: January 2021

O nosso intuito é de examinar, por meio da análise do Livro da Virtuosa Benfeitoria de D. Pedro (1392 – 1449), como o gênero dos Espelhos de Príncipes se apresentou em Portugal no contexto da Dinastia de Avis (1385-1580), ao projetar um governante ideal. Tendo em vista o século XV como o período em que as ideias renascentistas italianas inspiradas na antiguidade clássica começam a adentrar a corte portuguesa, com a introdução de obras de caráter cívico e pedagógico, organizamos o texto no sentido de compreender as características presentes nesse tratado para a valorização das capacidades do ser humano, sobretudo no campo da Educação. Para realizar tal investigação, a metodologia parte dos pressupostos da pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, recorrendo aos aportes da História Social. resumo.
Associação entre perfil socioeconômico e estado nutricional em adultos com excesso de peso
Authors: Coelho Rodolfo Felipe Lima , Christinelli Heloá Costa Borim , Westphal Greice , Borim Maria Luiza Costa , Utrila Raquel Tomiazzi , Pereira Igor Alisson Spagnol , Martins Fernando Malentaqui , Castilho Mario Moreira , Soares Geison Schmidt , Amaral Michele Fernandes do , Costa Maria Antonia Ramos , Nardo Junior Nelson , Fernandes Carlos Alexandre Molena
Published: January 2021

Introdução: No Brasil, a prevalência do excesso de peso e obesidade é maior entre os indivíduos com menor escolaridade, 24,5% de obesidade entre os que têm de 0 a 8 anos de escolaridade e de 15,8% no grupo com 12 anos ou mais de escolaridade. Objetivo: o objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a associação entre o perfil socioeconômico e o estado nutricional de adultos com excesso de peso no município de Paranavaí - PR. Método: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo transversal destinado a identificar os fatores associados ao estado nutricional: nível de renda e escolaridade; em adultos, de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 18 e 50 anos, com excesso de peso. Resultados: Dentre os 147 participantes a média de idade apresentada foi de 34,52 anos 87 eram casados, 54 solteiros, 5 divorciados e 1 viúvo, no tocante ao sexo 119 eram mulheres, a maioria apresentou 8 ou mais anos de estudo, prevaleceram participantes com a Obesidade Grau I com 32,65%. Conclusão: O enfermeiro como gestor de uma unidade básica de saúde tem papel fundamental no desenvolvimento de atividades de educação em saúde visando a mudança do estilo de vida para a prevenção e tratamento da obesidade.
Impact of Automated Statistical Downscaling and Delta Downscaling methods on projecting future climate change in the northeast Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Chen A , Zhang S , Li Z
Published: January 2021

The accuracy of different downscaling methods in projecting future precipitation and air temperature from general circulation models (GCMs) has rarely been addressed with regards to the Tibetan Plateau, and this information is important for future water resource management in the region. The performance of automated statistical downscaling (ASD) and Delta downscaling methods in predicting precipitation and air temperature was evaluated at 19 meteorological stations in the Qilian Mountains and Hexi Corridor (QM-HC) by comparing with in situ observations from 2006-2015. These comparisons, based on Representative Concentration Pathway 4.5 (RCP4.5), suggest that the difference in annual precipitation between the ASD model and the Delta method is 17 mm. Testing different weights of the 2 downscaling methods indicates that combining the 2 methods results in lower uncertainty. The downscaling of annual precipitation projected by weighting the results of the 2 methods suggested that, based on RCP4.5, precipitation will not increase significantly from 2021-2100 compared to the past (1961-2005) and will fluctuate steadily in the coming decades. These projections are in contrast with previous projections of a significant increase. Air temperature is projected to increase by approximately 0.2°C decade-1 from 2021-2100 according to the weighted average of the ASD model and Delta method based on RCP4.5. This study indicates that management measures based on projected increased precipitation should be carefully reconsidered in different regions.
Johanna Leintje Szobotka-Visser, 1900-1984
Authors: Pavlitzky Petra
Published: January 2021

Johanna Leintje Szobotka-Visser was een belangrijke cultuurbemiddelaar van de Hongaarse literatuur in Nederland. Zij liet als vertaler voor het eerst van zich horen in het interbellum, en vertaalde voornamelijk romans uit het Hongaars in het Nederlands, maar er verschenen ook vertaalde artikelen van haar hand. Szobotka-Visser was nauw verbonden met de zogenaamde kindertreinacties, die de aanleiding vormden voor haar verhuizing naar Hongarije.
Osmanlı’nın Son Yıllarında Kadın Eğitimine Yönelik Önemli Bir Kitap: Kadınlara Amelî Sanayi-i Ziraiye Dersleri
Authors: BİLİR Mehmet
Published: January 2021

Osmanlı’dan günümüze, kadınlara yönelik dersler ev ekonomisi disiplini altında verilmektedir. Osmanlı Devleti’nin aslında bir yazı ve kayıt medeniyeti olduğunu bilmekle birlikte, gerek bilgi kaynaklarının kaybolması ve gerekse Osmanlı Türkçesi (Osmanlıca) okuyanların az olması sebebiyle geçmişe dair bilgilerimiz yetersiz kalmaktadır. Günümüzde Osmanlıca kurslarının yaygınlaşması, ortaöğretimde bile seçmeli ders olarak okutulması, bu tarz bilgilerin farkındalığını artırmakta, erişimi kolaylaştırmaktadır. Tarım ve Orman Bakanlığı Kütüphanesi’nde yer alan ve 1915’li yıllarda basılmış olan “Kadınlara Amelî Sanayi-i Ziraiye Dersleri” isimli kitap, ev idaresi ve ziraat sanatlarına ait bazı konuları içermesi açısından önem arzetmekle birlikte asıl onu önemli kılan, bu kitabın kadınlara yönelik olduğunun özellikle vurgulanmış olmasıdır. Kitabın tanıtımı, içindeki bazı bilgilerin detaylı ve günümüz diliyle yazılmasıyla birlikte, özellikle un ve ekmek üzerine çalışan, geleneksel üretimle ilgilenen araştırıcıların da dikkatine sunulmakta ve bazı bilgilerin bugünle kıyaslanması amaçlanmaktadır.
Epidemic trends of SARS-CoV-2 associated with immunity, race, and viral mutations
Authors: Kamikubo Yasuhiko , Hattori Toshio , Takahashi Atsushi
Published: January 2021

The world has been plagued by complex waves of SARS-CoV-2 epidemics that vary from region to region, leaving the end of the pandemic unpredictable. Here we performed "genetic fingerprinting" to compare the local viral genotypes with epidemiological information and reveal the molecular dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic worldwide. A multifaceted analyses of the epidemic trends and their relationship to virus genotypes, regional herd immunity, population density, and race has shown that epidemic outcomes are affected by: (1) Increased fitness of the virus due to mutations of viral proteins; (2) Immunity against previously prevalent subtypes that prevents or exacerbates COVID-19; (3) Immune evasion due to viral mutations; (4) Viral competition with coexisting subtypes; (5) Dense and crowded living environment; (6) Racial and social disparities; (7) Upper limit of viral mutations that enable natural selection. These findings provide an overview of the current epidemic, help predict the future, and develop effective countermeasures.
The effect of invasive species Lantana Camara L. on soil nutrients at Ol-Donyo Sabuk National Park, Kenya
Authors: Wekhanya M N , Mbugua P. K. , Mworia J. K.
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study was to establish whether the invasive plant Lantana camara L. alters the soil chemical properties at Ol-Donyo Sabuk National Park. The key objective was to evaluate the soil nutrient composition in areas invaded by L. camara and how these differ from areas without L. camara. Five study sites were selected by purposeful sampling, out of the existing 10 blocks. Soil samples were collected randomly from L. camara invaded areas and similarly from adjacent areas free from L. camara. The soil samples were subjected to determination of the following nutrients and parameters: pH, potassium (K), calcium (Ca) magnesium (Mg), total nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), total organic carbon (TOC), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and sodium (Na). The data obtained was analysed using Two-way ANOVA test to determine difference in nutrients composition in L. camara invaded and non-invaded areas. Three-way ANOVA test was used to gauge the interactions between wet and dry season, invaded and non-invaded areas and study sites. A post-ANOVA test, Tukey’s Honest Significant Difference was done to separate the means. The results from the study indicated L. camara invaded areas had a significant difference in pH, P, N, Mn, Fe and total organic C compared to the patches that had native plants and not invaded by L. camara. High pH also makes P to be more available to plants that is why P was high in the L. camara invaded areas. This study revealed that L. camara remarkably changes the concentration and balance of soil nutrients resulting to a change in chemistry of soil nutrients. This is in a bid to suit its survival to the detriment of the native plant species. This study is hence vital for designing an effective eradication and preventive strategy of L. camara in Ol-Donyo Sabuk National Park and other protected ecological habitats in Kenya.
Elastic scattering of electrons by barium atoms using the distorted wave method
Authors: Kago J. N. , Okumu J. , Singh C. S.
Published: January 2021

Differential and integral cross sections of elastic scattering of electrons by barium atoms at intermediate energies (10 – 200 eV) were calculated using the distorted wave method. Being an elastic scattering both the initial and final distortion potentials were taken as the static potential of a barium atom in the initial state. The distorted waves are determined by the partial wave expansion method by expanding them in terms of spherical harmonics while the radial equation corresponding to distorted waves is evaluated using the Numerov method. A computer program DWBA1, for scattering was modified to perform numerical calculations for scattering and the results obtained are compared with the experimental and theoretical results available. The present integral cross sections are in good qualitative agreement with the experimental results and most of the theoretical results. For energies in the range 30 – 100 eV the present differential cross sections are in satisfactory agreement with the other theoretical and experimental results.
The effect of exchange and absorption potential in the distorted wave calculation of electron impact excitation of the autoionizing state of caesium
Authors: Ochieng A. A. , Okumu J , Singh C S
Published: January 2021

We have calculated the differential and integral cross sections for electron impact excitation of the lowest autoionizing level of caesium atoms in the energy range 13 – 500 eV using the distorted wave method. In this study we have used a complex distortion potential as the distortion potential both at the initial and the final channels. Our results are compared amongst themselves to establish the effect of exchange and imaginary absorption potentials. We also compared with other available theoretical and experimental results to determine the suitability of our present method. From the results it is seen that when an absorption potential is included in the distortion potential, the integral cross section moves closer to the experimental result in the intermediate energy range 19 – 40 eV.
Glia-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: Role in Central Nervous System Communication in Health and Disease
Authors: Pistono Cristiana , Bister Nea , Stanová Iveta , Malm Tarja
Published: January 2021

Glial cells are crucial for the maintenance of correct neuronal functionality in a physiological state and intervene to restore the equilibrium when environmental or pathological conditions challenge central nervous system homeostasis. The communication between glial cells and neurons is essential and extracellular vesicles (EVs) take part in this function by transporting a plethora of molecules with the capacity to influence the function of the recipient cells. EVs, including exosomes and microvesicles, are a heterogeneous group of biogenetically distinct double membrane-enclosed vesicles. Once released from the cell, these two types of vesicles are difficult to discern, thus we will call them with the general term of EVs. This review is focused on the EVs secreted by astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and microglia, aiming to shed light on their influence on neurons and on the overall homeostasis of the central nervous system functions. We collect evidence on neuroprotective and homeostatic effects of glial EVs, including neuronal plasticity. On the other hand, current knowledge of the detrimental effects of the EVs in pathological conditions is addressed. Finally, we propose directions for future studies and we evaluate the potential of EVs as a therapeutic treatment for neurological disorders.
A Traditional Chinese Medicine, Maoto, Suppresses Hepatitis B Virus Production
Authors: Rahman Md. Arifur , Ueda Keiji , Honda Tomoyuki
Published: January 2021

Worldwide, millions of people suffer from hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, putting them at a high risk of death from liver cirrhosis and cancer. Although effective anti-HBV drugs have been developed, current drugs have some limitations, as most of them have a risk of significant side effects. Therefore, the discovery of safe and effective anti-HBV drugs is still needed. Natural compounds are considered sources of novel, safe and effective therapeutics. In this study, we screened a library of Kampos, traditional herbal medicines, for suppression of HBV production. Among them, we found that maoto reduced extracellular HBV DNA but not extracellular HBsAg during HBV infection, suggesting that it suppressed HBV production by interfering with HBV nucleocapsid incorporation into viral particles. Furthermore, we revealed that maoto reduced the expression of a host gene, Tropomyosin β chain (TPM2), whose downregulation also suppressed HBV production, similarly to maoto. Since the safety of maoto has been already confirmed, maoto can be considered a candidate anti-HBV agent if the effect is confirmed in vivo. In addition, our findings also suggest TPM2 as a novel molecular target for the development of anti-HBV agents.
Identification of Membrane-Bound Lytic Murein Transglycosylase A (MltA) as a Growth Factor for Francisella novicida in a Silkworm Infection Model
Authors: Nakamura Takemasa , Shimizu Takashi , Inagaki Fumiya , Okazaki Shoma , Saha Shib Shankar , Uda Akihiko , Watanabe Kenta , Watarai Masahisa
Published: January 2021

Francisella tularensis, the causative agent of tularemia, is transmitted by arthropod vectors within mammalian hosts. The detailed mechanisms contributing to growth and survival ofFrancisellawithin arthropod remain poorly understood. To identify novel factors supporting growth and survival ofFrancisellawithin arthropods, a transposon mutant library ofF. tularensissubsp.novicida(F. novicida) was screened using anF. novicida–silkworm infection model. Among 750 transposon mutants screened, themltA-encoding membrane-bound lytic murein transglycosylase A (MltA) was identified as a novel growth factor ofF. novicidain silkworms. Silkworms infection with anmltAdeletion mutant (ΔmltA) resulted in a reduction in the number of bacteria and prolonged survival. The ΔmltAstrain exhibited limited intracellular growth and cytotoxicity in BmN4 silkworm ovary cells. Moreover, the ΔmltAstrain induced higher expression of the antimicrobial peptide in silkworms compared to the wild-type strain. These results suggest thatF. novicidaMltA contributes to the survival ofF. novicidain silkwormsviaimmune suppression-related mechanisms. Intracellular growth of the ΔmltAstrain was also reduced in human monocyte THP-1 cells. These results also suggest the contribution of MltA to pathogenicity in humans and utility of theF. novicida–silkworm infection model to exploreFrancisellainfection.
Prospective Evaluation of Aspergillus fumigatus-Specific IgG in Patients With Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Eschenhagen Patience , Grehn Claudia , Schwarz Carsten
Published: January 2021

Background

In Cystic Fibrosis (CF), the airways are often colonized by opportunistic fungi. The most frequently detected mold is Aspergillus fumigatus (Af). Af diseases are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The most common clinical picture caused by Af is allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), triggered by an immunological reaction against Af. Af bronchitis and invasive aspergillosis rarely occur in CF as a result of spore colonization and germination. Since pulmonary mycoses and exacerbations by other pathogens overlap in clinical, radiological, and immunological characteristics, diagnosis still remains a challenge. The search for reliable, widely available biomarkers for Af diseases is therefore still an important task today.

Objectives

Af-specific IgG m3 is broadly available. Sensitivity and specificity data are contradictory and differ depending on the study population. In our prospective study on pulmonary Af diseases in CF, we determined specific IgG m3 in order to test its suitability as a biomarker for acute Af diseases and as a follow-up parameter.

Methods

In this prospective single center study, 109 patients with CF were screened from 2016 to 2019 for Af-associated diseases. According to diagnostic criteria, they were divided into four groups (control, bronchitis, ABPA, pneumonia). The groups were compared with respect to the level of Af-specific IgG (ImmunoCAP Gm3). We performed a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to determine cut-off, sensitivity and specificity. Twenty-one patients could be enrolled for a follow-up examination.

Results

Of the 109 patients, 36 were classified as acute Af-disease (Af bronchitis, ABPA, Af pneumonia). Of these, 21 patients completed follow up-screening. The median Af-specific Gm3 was higher in the acute Af-disease groups. There was a significant difference in Af-specific IgG m3 compared to the control group without acute Af-disease. Overall, there was a large interindividual distribution of Gm3. A cut-off value of 78.05 mg/L for Gm3 was calculated to discriminate controls and patients with ABPA/pneumonia with a specificity of 75% and a sensitivity of 74.6%. The follow up examination of 21 patients showed a decrease of Gm3 in most patients without statistical significance due to the small number of follow up patients.

Conclusion

Af specific IgG may be a useful biomarker for acute ABPA and Af pneumonia, but not for Af bronchitis in CF. However, due to the large interindividual variability of Gm3, it should only be interpreted alongside other biomarkers. Therefore, due to its broad availability, it could be suitable as a biomarker for ABPA and Af pneumonia in CF, if the results can be supported by a larger multicenter cohort.
CO2 Capture for Dry Reforming of Natural Gas: Performance and Process Modeling of Calcium Carbonate Looping Using Acid Based CaCO3 Sorbent
Authors: Zubir Muhammad Afiq , Afandi Nurfanizan , Manap Abreeza , Hamid Awaluddin Abdul , Ayodele Bamidele Victor , Liu Wen , Abd Hamid Mohd Kamaruddin
Published: January 2021

Several industrial activities often result in the emissions of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane (a principal component of natural gas). In order to mitigate the effects of these greenhouse gases, CO2 can be captured, stored and utilized for the dry reforming of methane. Various CO2 capture techniques have been investigated in the past decades. This study investigated the performance and process modeling of CO2 capture through calcium carbonate looping (CCL) using local (Malaysia) limestone as the sorbent. The original limestone was compared with two types of oxalic acid-treated limestone, with and without aluminum oxide (Al2O3) as supporting material. The comparison was in terms of CO2 uptake capacity and performance in a fluidized bed reactor system. From the results, it was shown that the oxalic acid-treated limestone without Al2O3 had the largest surface area, highest CO2 uptake capacity and highest mass attrition resistance, compared with other sorbents. The sorbent kinetic study was used to design, using an Aspen Plus simulator, a CCL process that was integrated with a 700 MWe coal-fired power plant from Malaysia. The findings showed that, with added capital and operation costs due to the CCL process, the specific CO2 emission of the existing plant was significantly reduced from 909 to 99.7 kg/MWh.
Production of CFTR-ΔF508 Rabbits
Authors: Yang Dongshan , Liang Xiubin , Pallas Brooke , Hoenerhoff Mark , Ren Zhuoying , Han Renzhi , Zhang Jifeng , Chen Y. Eugene , Jin Jian-Ping , Sun Fei , Xu Jie
Published: January 2021

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a lethal autosomal recessive disease caused by mutations in the gene encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). The most common mutation is the deletion of phenylalanine residue at position 508 (ΔF508). Here we report the production of CFTR-ΔF508 rabbits by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing. After microinjection and embryo transfer, 77 kits were born, of which five carried the ΔF508 mutation. To confirm the germline transmission, one male ΔF508 founder was bred with two wild-type females and produced 16 F1 generation kits, of which six are heterozygous ΔF508/WT animals. Our work adds CFTR-ΔF508 rabbits to the toolbox of CF animal models for biomedical research.
Review: Occurrence and Distribution of Galanin in the Physiological and Inflammatory States in the Mammalian Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Brzozowska Marta , Całka Jarosław
Published: January 2021

Galanin (GAL) is a broad-spectrum peptide that was first identified 37 years ago. GAL, which acts through three specific receptor subtypes, is one of the most important molecules on an ever-growing list of neurotransmitters. Recent studies indicate that this peptide is commonly present in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and GAL distribution can be seen in the enteric nervous system (ENS). The function of the GAL in the gastrointestinal tract is, inter alia, to regulate motility and secretion. It should be noted that the distribution of neuropeptides is largely dependent on the research model, as well as the part of the gastrointestinal tract under study. During the development of digestive disorders, fluctuations in GAL levels were observed. The occurrence of GAL largely depends on the stage of the disease, e.g., in porcine experimental colitis GAL secretion is caused by infection with Brachyspira hyodysenteriae. Many authors have suggested that increased GAL presence is related to the involvement of GAL in organ renewal. Additionally, it is tempting to speculate that GAL may be used in the treatment of gastroenteritis. This review aims to present the function of GAL in the mammalian gastrointestinal tract under physiological conditions. In addition, since GAL is undoubtedly involved in the regulation of inflammatory processes, and the aim of this publication is to provide up-to-date knowledge of the distribution of GAL in experimental models of gastrointestinal inflammation, which may help to accurately determine the role of this peptide in inflammatory diseases and its potential future use in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.
Chronic Hyperglycemia Drives Functional Impairment of Lymphocytes in Diabetic INSC94Y Transgenic Pigs
Authors: Giese Isabella-Maria , Schilloks Marie-Christin , Degroote Roxane L. , Weigand Maria , Renner Simone , Wolf Eckhard , Hauck Stefanie M. , Deeg Cornelia A.
Published: January 2021

People with diabetes mellitus have an increased risk for infections, however, there is still a critical gap in precise knowledge about altered immune mechanisms in this disease. Since diabetic INSC94Y transgenic pigs exhibit elevated blood glucose and a stable diabetic phenotype soon after birth, they provide a favorable model to explore functional alterations of immune cells in an early stage of diabetes mellitus in vivo. Hence, we investigated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of these diabetic pigs compared to non-diabetic wild-type littermates. We found a 5-fold decreased proliferative response of T cells in INSC94Y tg pigs to polyclonal T cell mitogen phytohemagglutinin (PHA). Using label-free LC-MS/MS, a total of 3,487 proteins were quantified, and distinct changes in protein abundances in CD4+ T cells of early-stage diabetic pigs were detectable. Additionally, we found significant increases in mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and higher basal glycolytic activity in PBMC of diabetic INSC94Y tg pigs, indicating an altered metabolic immune cell phenotype. Thus, our study provides new insights into molecular mechanisms of dysregulated immune cells triggered by permanent hyperglycemia.
Dendritic Cell Vaccines in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Zhang Xi , He Tianhui , Li Yuan , Chen Ling , Liu Hongyu , Wu Yu , Guo Hongyan
Published: January 2021

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most lethal malignant gynecologic tumors, characterized by an uncertain presentation and poor outcomes. With or without neoadjuvant chemotherapy, surgery followed by platinum-based chemotherapy and maintenance therapy are the basis for the treatment of ovarian cancer patients, but the outcome is still highly restricted by their advanced stage when diagnosed and high recurrence rate after chemotherapy. To enhance the anti-tumor effect and postpone recurrence, anti-VEGF agents and PARP inhibitors are suggested as maintenance therapy, but the population that can benefit from these treatments is small. Based on the interactions of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, immunotherapies are being explored for ovarian cancer treatment. Disappointingly, the immune checkpoint inhibitors show relatively low responses in ovarian cancer. As shown in several studies that have uncovered a relationship between DC infiltration and outcome in ovarian cancer patients, dendritic cell (DC)-based treatments might have a potential effect on ovarian cancer. In this review, we summarize the functions of dendritic cells (DCs) in the tumor microenvironment, as well as the responses and drawbacks of existing clinical studies to draw a comprehensive picture of DC vaccine treatment in ovarian cancer and to discuss the promising future of immune biomarkers.
Bioactive Metabolites From Acid-Tolerant Fungi in a Thai Mangrove Sediment
Authors: Gao Hai , Wang Yanan , Luo Qiao , Yang Liyuan , He Xingxing , Wu Jun , Kachanuban Konthorn , Wilaipun Pongthep , Zhu Weiming , Wang Yi
Published: January 2021

Despite being potentially useful extremophile resources, there have been few reports on acid-tolerant fungi and their bioactive metabolites. Acidophilic/aciduric fungi (n = 237) were isolated from Thai mangrove sediments in an acidic medium. Using fungal identification technology (including morphologic observation, chemical screening, and sequence comparisons) all the isolates were identified and 41 representative isolates were selected for analysis of the phylogenetic relationships (ITS rDNA, β-tubulin, calmodulin, and actin gene sequences). There were seven genera identified – Penicillium; Aspergillus; Talaromyces; Cladosporium; Allophoma; Alternaria; and Trichoderma – in four taxonomic orders of the phylum Ascomycota, and Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Talaromyces were the dominant genera. Acidity tolerance was evaluated and 95% of the isolates could grow under extremely acidic conditions (pH 2). Six strains were classed as acidophilic fungi that cannot survive under pH 7, all of which had an extraordinarily close genetic relationship and belonged to the genus Talaromyces. This is the first report on the acidophilic characteristics of this genus. The antimicrobial, anti-tumor, and antiviral activities of the fermentation extracts were evaluated. Nearly three-quarters of the extracts showed cytotoxic activity, while less than a quarter showed antimicrobial or anti-H1N1 activity. The typical aciduric fungus Penicillium oxalicum OUCMDZ-5207 showed similar growth but completely different chemical diversity at pH 3 and 7. The metabolites of OUCMDZ-5207 that were obtained only at pH 3 were identified as tetrahydroauroglaucin (1), flavoglaucin (2), and auroglaucin (3), among which auroglaucin showed strong selective inhibition of A549 cells with an IC50 value of 5.67 μM. These results suggest that acid stress can activate silent gene clusters to expand the diversity of secondary metabolites, and the bioprospecting of aciduric/acidophilic microorganism resources in Thai mangrove sediments may lead to the discovery of compounds with potential medicinal applications.
Genetics Influences Drug Consumption in Medication Overuse Headache, Not in Migraine: Evidence From Wolframin His611Arg Polymorphism Analysis
Authors: Di Lorenzo Cherubino , Di Lorenzo Giorgio , Coppola Gianluca , Parisi Vincenzo , Grieco Gaetano S. , Santorelli Filippo Maria , Pascale Esterina , Pierelli Francesco
Published: January 2021

Background: The Wolframin His611Arg polymorphism can influence drug consumption in psychiatric patients with impulsive addictive behavior. This cross-sectional study aims to assess the prevalence of the Wolframin His611Arg polymorphism in MOH, a secondary headache belonging to the spectrum of addictive disorders, episodic migraine (EM), and healthy subjects (HS), and its influence on drug consumption.

Methods: One-hundred and seventy-two EM, 107 MOH, and 83 HS were enrolled and genotyped for the Wolframin His611Arg polymorphism. Subjects were classified as homozygous for allele His (H/H subjects), homozygous for allele Arg (R/R subjects), and heterozygous (H/R subjects), regrouped as R/R and carriers of allele H (non-R/R), and matched for clinical data.

Results: There were no differences in allelic distributions between the three groups (p = 0.19). Drug consumption and other clinical characteristics were not influenced by the Wolframin His611Arg polymorphism (p = 0.42; β = 0.04) in the EM group. Among the MOH population, R/R subjects consumed more analgesics (p < 0.0001; β = −0.38), particularly combination drugs (p = 0.0001; d = 2.32).

Discussion: The Wolframin His611Arg polymorphism has a similar prevalence between the MOH, EM, and HS groups. The presence of the R/R genotype does not influence symptomatic drug consumption in EM, whereas it determines an increased use of symptomatic drugs in the MOH group, in particular combination drugs (i.e., drugs containing psychoactive compounds).

Conclusions: Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the Wolframin His611Arg polymorphism plays its effect only in the MOH population, influencing the impulsivity control underlying addictive behavior.