bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Essentials of setting up a wet lab for ophthalmic surgical training in COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mishra Deepak , Bhatia Karan , Verma Lalit
Published: January 2021

Wet labs are an extremely important training tool, especially in times of a global COVID-19 pandemic, where surgical training can be minimal. They help the trainee learn and practice in a risk-free environment, without an imminent of a complication or failure, also allowing them the chance to execute the steps of a surgery repeatedly. We summarize all the key ingredients required from setting up a wet lab to improve the surgical skill of the trainees. The review also discusses various eyeball fixating devices, preparation of the eye for various types of ocular surgeries, and the role of simulation-based training in today's scenario.
Fasting Blood Glucose, Cholesterol, and Risk of Primary Liver Cancer: The Kailuan Study
Authors: Ma Xiangming , Cui Haozhe , Sun Miaomiao , Liu Qian , Liu Xining , Li Guangjian , Wei Yaochen , Fu Qingjiang , Liu Siqing , Cao Liying
Published: January 2021

PurposeThe influence of fasting blood glucose (FBG) and cholesterolemia primary liver cancer (PLC) in china was analyzed via a large prospective cohort study based on a community population, and the combined effects between them were investigated.Materials and MethodsOverall, 98,936 staff from the Kailuan Group who participated in and finished physical examinations between 2006 and 2007 were included in the cohort study. Their medical information was collected and they were followed up after examination. The correlations of serum FBG or TC with PLC were analyzed. Then, we categorized all staff into four groups: normal FBG/ non-hypocholesterolemia, normal FBG/hypocholesterolemia, elevated FBG/non-hypocholesterolemia, elevated FBG/hypocholesterolemia and normal FBG/ non-hypocholesterolemia was used as a control group. The combined effects of elevated FBG and hypocholesterolemia with PLC were analyzed using the Age-scale Cox proportional hazard regression model. ResultsDuring 1,134,843.68 person*years follow up, a total of 388 PLC cases occured. We found the elevated FBG and hypocholesterolemia increases the risk for PLC, respectively. Compared with the non-hypocholesterolemia/normal FBG group, the risk of PLC was significantly increased in the non-hypocholesterolemia/elevated FBG group (HR=1.19,95%CI 0.88–1.62) and hypocholesterolemia/normal FBG group (HR=1.53,95%CI 1.19–1.97), and in the hypocholesterolemia/elevated FBG group (HR=3.16 95%CI2.13-4.69). And, a significant interaction effect was found of FBG and TC on PLC. All results were independent from the influence of liver disease.ConclusionElevated serum FBG and hypocholesterolemia are risk factors for PLC, especially when combined. Thus, for the prevention and treatment of PLC, serum FBG and TC levels should be investigated.
Effects of Biodegradable Insecticides on Biofilter Bacteria: Implications for Aquaponics
Authors: Rašković Božidar , Dvořák Petr , Mráz Jan
Published: January 2021

Even though aquaponics is the production system that is increasingly gaining focus, there is an absence of publications studying the use of pesticides in the aquaponics. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess negative effects of one synthetic (chlorpyrifos) and two botanical insecticides (azadirachtin and pyrethrin) to matured biofilter in plastic buckets. The effectiveness of biofilter bacteria is determined indirectly, as concentrations of ammonia, nitrites and nitrates in the water were measured at 0h, 5h, 13h, 21h, 29h, 37h, 45h and 53h after insecticides application. The results showed negative effects of azadirachtin on the first step of nitrification, as concentration of ammonia was higher comparing to other groups for almost every sample point. Negative effects on second step of nitrification and higher concentrations of nitrites in the water were also detected, but no statistical differences were observed in the present study, due to the large variation between buckets. Nitrates were lower in water treated with azadirachtin from 29 hours from start to the end of the experiment. Application of other two insecticides to biofilter did not cause any effects and showed no difference comparing to the control group.
Pathophysiology of Anemia in HIV-Infected Children Exposed to Malaria
Authors: Moraleda Cinta , Aguilar Ruth , Quintó Llorenç , Nhampossa Tacilta , Renom Montserrat , Nhabomba Augusto , Ruperez María , Aponte John J. , Achtman Ariel H. , Mañú Pereira María del Mar , Schofield Louis , Alonso Pedro L. , Macete Eusebio , Menéndez Clara
Published: January 2021

Anemia is a common condition in HIV-infected children; however, its pathophysiology and the contribution of frequent causes of anemia such as iron deficiency (ID) and malaria are poorly understood. We carried out an ancillary study on the effect of HIV on anemia as part of a case–control study on risk factors of anemia among Mozambican children aged 1–59 months with documented HIV status. Of them, 390 children were admitted to the hospital with anemia (hemoglobin [Hb] < 11 g/dL), whereas 272 children without anemia (Hb ≥ 11 g/dL) were recruited in the community. We assessed differences by HIV status in the presentation of anemia etiological factors and the effect of HIV infection on the association of each factor with anemia. Among the 99 HIV-infected and 563 uninfected children included, HIV-infected anemic children had an increased risk of undernutrition (P < 0.0001), Epstein–Barr virus infection (P < 0.0001), bacteremia (P = 0.0060), a decreased risk of malaria (P < 0.0001), and a similar risk of ID (P = 0.7371) compared with anemic-uninfected children. HIV-infected children were significantly less likely to have anemia associated with Plasmodium falciparum hyperparasitemia (P = 0.0444) and had a lower prevalence of parasitemia in the bone marrow (BM) (P < 0.0001) than anemic-uninfected children. Levels of BM erythropoiesis and dyserythropoiesis were comparable between groups. These findings suggest that the pathophysiology of anemia among HIV-infected malaria-exposed children is not related to HIV-specific effects. For unclear reasons, HIV-infected children had reduced risk of malaria infection, whereas ID prevalence was comparable in HIV-infected and uninfected children, suggesting that iron supplementation recommendations should not be different in HIV-infected children.
Utility of Fluorine-18 Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in Patients with Visceral Leishmaniasis: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Pinnegar Harriet P. , Sánchez-Montalvá Adrián , Barios Profitos Marta , Bosch-Nicolau Pau , Salvador Fernando , Molina Israel
Published: January 2021

The diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is complicated and often unsuspected. Little is known of the usefulness of nuclear imaging in VL. Our objective was to describe findings seen in fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) in cases of VL. We retrospectively reviewed VL cases diagnosed at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital from May 2012 to May 2018 and selected those that had an FDG-PET/CT performed. Information on procedures and details of the FDG-PET/CT features and follow-up were collected. We then systematically reviewed the literature on VL and FDG-PET/CT. Four of 43 patients diagnosed with VL had an FDG-PET/CT performed. All four patients presented diffuse splenic uptake of FDG-PET/CT. Adenopathy was not always present, and bone marrow uptake was found in two patients. A posttreatment FDG-PET/CT in one patient revealed normalization of initial findings. In the literature review, 43 of 50 cases presented similar splenic uptake in the PET/CT, being described as different patterns: “increased metabolism,” “homogeneous,” “diffuse,” “diffuse and multifocal,” “nodular,” “patchy and granular,” “subcortical,” and “compatible with lymphoma.” Other frequent findings were bone marrow uptake and adenopathies. We, therefore, conclude that FDG-PET/CT could become a useful tool for the diagnosis and follow-up of VL and that VL should be taken into account in patients with fever of unknown origin with enhanced splenic uptake in FDG-PET/CT. Differential diagnosis in these cases should be made with splenic primary lymphoma, virus infections, chemotherapy, and colony-stimulating factor therapy. Further structured studies with more cases are needed to define its diagnostic and prognostic value.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices regarding Leptospirosis among Visitors to a Recreational Forest in Malaysia
Authors: Shafie Nur Juliani , Abdul Halim Najma Syahmin , Nor Zalipah Mohamed , Mohd Amin Nur Amalin Zahirah , Syed Esa Sharifah Masit’ah , Md-Nor Shukor , Casanovas-Massana Arnau , Ko Albert I. , Palma Fabiana , Neves Souza Fabio , Costa Federico
Published: January 2021

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease and a worldwide public health problem that affects mainly high-risk groups. Characterizing knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among high-risk groups is important to develop appropriate prevention programs. Here, we performed a cross-sectional study among 300 visitors of a recreational forest in Malaysia to examine leptospirosis KAP and demographics. These variables were integrated to create knowledge and practice scores for each respondent. All respondents had heard about leptospirosis, and 87% of them correctly identified it as a disease. The majority of respondents had high knowledge (63%), positive attitude, and good practice (68%) toward prevention of the disease. However, there were gaps in knowledge, with 78% of the respondents indicating eating without washing hands as the major cause of leptospirosis transmission. Our final model identified that higher knowledge score was associated with higher practice score. Our results indicate that it is important to increase knowledge, especially on transmission routes of leptospirosis, among visitors in recreational areas. Moreover, more attention needs to be paid to promote good practice habits among visitors, targeting those at higher risk of being infected by leptospirosis to prevent potential outbreaks in the recreational areas.
Case Report: Spontaneous Carinal Perforation and Bronchonodal Fistula due to Pulmonary Nocardiosis in an HIV-Infected Patient
Authors: Nakwan Narongwit
Published: January 2021

In clinical practice, nocardial infection is a rare opportunistic infection coexisting with potentially life-threatening condition, particularly in patients with HIV infection. Although the incidence remains low, it is still associated with high morbidity and mortality. The lung is a typical site involved in this organism, and complicating conditions can be resulted from local disruption and or destruction of adjacent structures. To our knowledge, this is the first case of pulmonary nocardiosis in an HIV-infected patient who is complicated with spontaneous carinal perforation, leading to develop bronchonodal fistula.
Morbidity among Arab–Israeli and Palestinian Hajj Pilgrims: A Prospective Study
Authors: Fteiha Bashar , Abul Al-Rub Tawfiq , Schwartz Eli , Lachish Tamar
Published: January 2021

Thousands of Palestinian and Arab–Israeli pilgrims travel to Mecca each year to complete their pilgrimage. To the best of our knowledge, no previous studies have characterized the infectious and noninfectious morbidity among Arab–Israeli or Palestinian Hajj pilgrims. Thus, we designed and conducted an observational questionnaire-based study to prospectively investigate the occurrence of health problems among these Hajjis who traveled to complete their Pilgrimage during 2019 Hajj season. For the purpose of the study, questionnaires were distributed to Hajj pilgrims at three different time occasions—before travel, inquiring on demographics and medical comorbidities; and 1 and 4 weeks after returning recording any health problems encountered during or after travel. Initial recruitment included 111 Hajjis. The mean age of responders was 49.5 (±9.1) years, with a Male:Female ratio of 1.3:1. The mean travel duration was 18.7 (13–36) days. Altogether, 66.3% of the pilgrims reported at least one health problem during and after the trip, of which 38.6% sought medical attention. Five (4.8%) hajjis were hospitalized, including life-threatening conditions. Cough was the most common complaint (53.8%), and 11.5% also reported fever. Pretravel counseling was associated with reduced outpatient and emergency room visits. We therefore concluded that a high rate of morbidity was reported among this cohort of Hajj pilgrims with a morbidity spectrum similar to pilgrims from other countries. Pretravel consultation with the purpose of educating the pilgrims on the health risks of Hajj may help reduce the morbidity for future Hajj seasons.
Impact of Maternal Periodontitis on Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight in Babies: Results of a Scoping Review
Authors: Uwambaye Peace , Munyanshongore Cyprien , Rulisa Stephen , Shiau Harlan , Nuhu Assuman , Kerr Michael S.
Published: January 2021

Background

Periodontitis has been documented as public health concern but its association with preterm and low birth weight remains uncertain, thus the objective of this scoping review is to summarize the most recent published evidence related to the impact of periodontitis on preterm birth and low birth weight in order to improve public awareness and to inform policies for oral health during pregnancy.

Methods

Hinari, PubMed, and Google Scholar were searched to acquire the published literature. The retrieved studies included cross-sectional, case control studies and randomized controlled trials with available full text published in English from 2008 to 2019.

Results

After combining the key words, 333 articles were identified with only 133 eligible articles published from 2008 to 2019. After reviewing the available 50 full text articles, duplicates were removed and 15 studies fully met the inclusion criteria. There were 13 articles that supported the association between maternal periodontitis and preterm low birth weight while 2 found no evidence to support the association.

Conclusion

The results of this scoping review contribute to an increasing body of evidence to support the hypothesis that maternal periodontal disease may be a risk factor for preterm delivery and low birth weight.

Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2020;3(3):372-386
Dispossession and Disintegration, Pity and Fear: The instrumentality of objects in two productions of King Lear
Authors: Roberts Sarah
Published: January 2021

Acknowledging the limits of theatre activism in the face of escalating displays of power and social injustices which define a contemporary context for staging Shakespearean (and classical) tragedy, this article reflects on the Take Away Shakespeare Company production of King Lear (1998) and on Jonathan Munby’s National Theatre production of the play (2018). As a member of the creative team of the 1998 production, the author takes on the quasi-archaeological exercise of piecing together residual fragments. Following Stephen Halliwell, the article revisits the value of pity and fear as critical tools for analysing modes of response, since these may be more analytically productive than empathy, which suffers from extended application and overuse. The roles of spectator and designer both raise pressing questions about theatre as a medium in relation to the intertwining of form and reception. The affective impact of intertwined word and image – actor and object – invites analysis of the rhetoric of the objects embedded in the action of Shakespeare’s plays. In King Lear, variously deployed, ‘things’ augment words as crucial mechanisms for advancing action and staging violations of human life and dignity, triggering responses of pity and fear.
Low-dose aspirin promotes osteogenic differentiation and osteogenic activity in osteoporotic rats by regulating Opg/Rankl/Rank Axis
Authors: Zhao Haijiao , Zhao Lei
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of low-dose aspirin (ASP) on osteogenic differentiation and osteogenic effects in osteoporotic rats, and the associated mechanism.Methods: The bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group and 3 drug groups treated with graded doses of ASP i.e. 0.5, 1 and 2 mmol/L, with 4 wells in each group. The OPG, RANKL protein expression levels, OPG/RANKL ratio, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level, and ALP secretion at days 3, 5 and 7 were compared amongst the groups.Results: ALP secretion in BMSCs was markedly higher in the 1 mmol/L ASP group than in control (p < 0.05). The OPG protein concentration and OPG/RANKL ratio were markedly higher in ASP-treated BMSCs than in control, while RANKL protein expression level was significantly lower than that in control (p < 0.05). In BMSCs treated with ASP at doses of 0.5 and 2 mmol/L, OPG protein expression levels and ratio of OPG/RANKL were markedly lower than those in 1 mmol/L ASP group, while the mean level of RANKL protein expression was markedly higher than that in 1 mmol/L ASP group (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Low-dose aspirin increases the expression of ALP, and promotes calcification which relates to upregulation of OPG and inhibition of the OPG/RANKL/RANK axis. This provides new leads for the development of new anti-osteoporosis drugs.

Keywords: Aspirin, OPG, RANKL, RANK, Osteoporosis
Effect of extracts from selected Kenyan plants on traits of metabolic syndrom in Wistar rats fed a high-fat high fructose diet
Authors: Kiage-Mokua Beatrice N. , De Vrese Michael , Kraus-Stojanowic Ina , Nielsen Annegret , Kareru Patrick , Kenji Gaston , Onyango Christine , Roos Nils , Ghadimi Darab , Schrezenmeir Jürgen
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To examine the potential of extracts from selected herbs used in African traditional medicine in diabetes patients, and to determine their effect on traits of metabolic syndrome in rats fed a high-fat and high-fructose diet.Methods: Ethanol and aqueous extracts were prepared from Mangifera indica (MI), Lonchocarpus eriocalyx (LE), Urtica massaica (UM), Schkuhria pinnata (SP) and Launaea cornuta (LC). Ethanol extracts (1:100 dilution) were examined for inhibition of pancreatic lipase and α-glucosidase activity invitro. Furthermore, aqueous extracts were administered for 74 days to male Wistar rats fed a high-fat and high-fructose diet to assess their effect on traits of metabolic syndrome.Results: Ethanol extracts showed at least 30 % inhibition of pancreatic lipase in vitro but no effect on α- glucosidase activity. Administration of the aqueous extracts caused significant reduction in liver triglycerides (except for LE). Muscle triglycerides and fat were also reduced, with the most pronounced effect elicited by LE. Urinary glucose excretion and plasma triglycerides, but not hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance, were reduced by UM compared to control.Conclusion: This exploratory study indicates that UM may be considered a candidate for the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.

Keywords: Kenyan traditional medicine, High-fat diet, High fructose, Insulin resistance, Triglycerides, Diabetes, Liver steatosis
Medication Adherence and Health Status in HIV Positive Patients in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Jackson Idongesit L. , Umoh Samuel S. , Erah Patrick O.
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To assess medication adherence and health status in ambulatory HIV positive patients in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.Methods: The 7-item Adherence to Refills and Medication Scale (ARMS-7) was used to assess medication adherence among 500 HIV positive patients in three secondary health facilities in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A single-item question (measuring self-rated health) and depression (CESD-R) questionnaire were also used to evaluate the patients. Recent CD4 count and viral load were obtained from the patients’ folders. The association between independent and dependent variables was evaluated using logistic regression analysis.Results: Only 56 (11.7%) respondents reported 100% adherence to their medications; 190 (39.7%) rated their health as being ‘very good’ and 51 (10.7%) reported being depressed. Respondents who were single were more likely to be nonadherent (aOR = 2.665, 95% CI = 1.336 - 5.318; p = 0.005), and the nonadherent patients were more likely to have lower CD4 cell counts (aOR = 0.998, CI = 0.996 – 0.999; p = 0.007). Those who rated their health as ‘fair’ or ‘poor’ were more likely to be nonadherent (aOR= 11.380, CI = 1.527 – 84.785; p=0.018) and depressed (aOR = 2.748, CI = 1.469 – 5.141; p = 0.002). Patients who were unemployed were more likely to rate their health as fair/poor (aOR = 1.890, CI = 1.197 – 2.985; p=0.006).Conclusion: This work has shown that even though most of the HIV positive patients perceive their health as being very good, their adherence to medications was poor which is directly related to their unemployment status. Intervention to improve adherence directed at socio-economic status of the individual patient is recommended.

Keywords: Medication adherence; Depression; Self-rated health; Nigeria
Protective effect of Salvia miltiorrhiza in rheumatoid arthritis patients: A randomized, single-blind, placebocontrolled trial
Authors: Yuan Zheng , Zhao Changsong , Zhang Qiang , Gao Zhengrong
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To study the protective effect of Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in RA patients.Methods: Sixty RA patients were divided into two groups: SM (n = 30) and placebo (n =30) groups given SM at a dose of 250 mg/kg (3 capsules/day), and placebo (3 capsule/day), respectively, for 12 weeks. Patient responses based on American College of Rheumatology (ACR), health assessmentquestionnaire (HAQ) score, and global assessment of disease (GAD) were recorded. Moreover, Disease Activity Score (DAS) 28, pain score (visual analogue score, VAS), rheumatoid factor (Rh factor), and inflammatory cytokines (markers) were determined.Results: After 12 weeks of intervention with SM, ACR20 (30 %)/ACR50 patient response (13.3%, i.e., score for swelling and tenderness of joints), was significantly improved. There were considerable reductions in GAD, HAQ, DAS 28, pain score (VAS), and levels of erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR), acute phase reaction protein (CRP), Rh factor (IgM) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α), when compared to placebo (p < 0.01). Treatment with SM produced milder adverse effects than treatment with placebo (p < 0.01).Conclusion: Overall, SM produces better anti-RA effect than placebo by significantly altering ACR patient response, reducing GAD, HAQ, DAS 28 scores, Rh factor, ESR, CRP and inflammatory cytokines in RA patients. However, a large-scale clinical trial is needed before SM can be recommended for combating RA and its related symptoms.

Keywords: Salvia miltiorrhiza, Rheumatoid arthritis, DAS 28, Adverse effect
Characterization and evaluation of the performance of starch and cellulose as excipients for direct compression technique
Authors: Alyami Hamad S. , Abu-Alrub Samer S. , Mahnashi Mater H. , Alyami Mohammad H. , Al Meanazel Osaid T.
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To investigate the influence of two often-used excipients (starch and microcrystalline cellulose) on the physical properties of powder blends and tablets that contain mannitol as diluent.Methods: Powder and powder mixtures of three commonly used excipients (starch, mannitol and microcrystalline cellulose) were thoroughly examined using the angle of repose for flowability, particle size analyzer to determine the diameter of the particles, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for morphological assessment, and x-ray diffraction to determine crystalline/amorphous characteristics. Tablets were prepared by direct compression technique and were evaluated for mechanical strength and disintegration behavior as part of quality control test.Results: The results showed that increase in MCC concentration of the mixture leads to significantly enhanced flowability (p < 0.05) when compared to starch. The angle of repose for mannitol/MCC powder mixture with 70 % w/w MCC was approximately 29°, indicating good flow properties of thepowder mix. Moreover, starch tablets containing MCC exhibited better mechanical strength and longer disintegration time, while, at 1:1 ratio of MCC and mannitol, tablet disintegration was faster (33.0 ± 5.2s)Conclusion: MCC (at 30 %w/w in the blend) produces optimal flow of the powder blend and superior mechanical strength,

Keywords: Tablet disintegration, Flowability, Starch, Hardness, Mechanical strength
Down-modulation of endoplasmic reticulum stressinitiated apoptosis by huperzine A in isoproterenolprovoked myocardial infarction rat model: Role of Nrf2/HO- 1 signaling axis
Authors: Li Zhongkui , Gao Lufang , Xiang Daokang , Liu Wenbo
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To investigate the myocardial protective effect of huperzine A (HPA), a sesquiterpene alkaloid, in a rat model of isoproterenol (ISP)- provoked MI and ER stress.Methods: Three groups of rats were used: control, ISP and ISP+HPA groups. The following indices were assayed using standard protocols: oxidative stress parameters, including NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), reactive oxygen species (ROS), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1); indices of calcium homeostasis, namely, sarcoplasmic and endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase isoform 2a (SERCA2a); ER stress parameters, viz, protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP); and indices of apoptosis, i.e., B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and caspase-12].Results: Oxidative/ER stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis were up-modulated (p < 0.05), while SERCA2a, a key calcium handling channel, was downmodulated in the ISP group (p < 0.05). In contrast, HPA treatment ameliorated these ISP-induced myocardial aberrations. (p < 0.05).Conclusion: These results indicate that HPA might be a potential therapeutic candidate for MI and associated cardiac problems.

Keywords: Caspase-12, ER stress, Huperzine A, Myocardial infarction, SERCA2a
Neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of myricetin 3-glucoside in a rat model of cerebral ischemia
Authors: Ye Shengshou , Ma Jing , Wang Xinlan , Ye Chunhua
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of myricetin 3-glucoside (M3GLS) on middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced cerebral ischemia in a rat model, and the mechanism of action involved.Methods: A cerebral ischemia rat model was established using MCAO under 10 % chloral hydrate anesthesia. Neurological severity score was determined by analyzing reflex, motor and sensory functions, as well as balancing potential. Infarction volume was determined using triphenyl tetrazolium chloride dye, while counting of Nissl bodies was done after toluidine blue staining. The protein expression levels of Bax and Bcl-2 were assayed using western blotting, while cytokine levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Results: Treatment of cerebral ischemia rats with M3GLS effectively reduced infarct volume, when compared to vehicle-treated group (p < 0.05). Moreover, M3GLS treatment significantly increased the population of Nissl bodies and effectively improved neurologic scores (p < 0.05). In M3GLS-pretreated rats, cerebral ischemia-induced elevation of protein expressions of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β were significantly suppressed. M3GL treatment significantly reversed cerebral ischemia-mediated downregulation of Bcl-2 protein level, but markedly reduced cerebral ischemia-induced upregulation of Bax protein level (p < 0.05).Conclusion: M3GLS exerts protective effect against cerebral ischemia-induced brain injury in rats via downregulation of inflammatory cytokines. It reduces infarction volume in the brain of cerebral ischemia rats, and regulates Bcl-2/Bax protein ratio. Thus, M3GLS has a potential for use in the clinical management of cerebral ischemia.

Keywords: Myricetin, Neuroprotection, Anti-inflammation, Cerebral ischemia, Cytokines, Infarction
A preliminary study of in vitro and in vivo synergistic effects of ciprofloxacin and D-tyrosine against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates
Authors: Li Huirong , Jiang Wei , He Xiaoshuang , Chen Mengting
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To investigate the synergistic antimicrobial effects of ciprofloxacin and D-tyrosine against drug-resistant bacteria.Method: The antimicrobial effects of ciprofloxacin and D-tyrosine on clinical isolates of multidrugresistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) no. 3556 were determined in vitro based on time-kill curve, and in vivo in P. aeruginosa-zebrafish infection model. Furthermore, 30 clinical isolates of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa were used in vitro to ascertain the synergistic effect of the two agents.Results: Combined use of ciprofloxacin and D-tyrosine produced synergistic effects against the clinical isolate of P. aeruginosa no. 3556 in vitro and in vivo. Synergism occurred in 96.67 % (95 % CI, range 83.33 - 99.41 %) of the clinical isolates, and ciprofloxacin dose was reduced in 90 % (95 % CI, range 74.38 - 96.54 %) of the clinical isolates in vitro.Conclusion: These preliminary results suggest that the combination of ciprofloxacin and D-tyrosine is a promising therapeutic strategy against MDR P. aeruginosa infections.

Keywords: Ciprofloxacin, D-tyrosine, Synergistic, P. aeruginosa, Zebrafish infection model, Time-killing curve
Phytochemical analysis and hepatoprotective activity of Raphanus sativus var. sativus in Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Rahman Heshu Sulaiman , Bayz Kashan Alaalddin , Hussein Ridha Hassan , Abdalla Azad Ismael , Othman Hemn Hassan , Amin Kawa Mohammad , Abdullah Rasedee
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To determine the phenolic and flavonoid contents of R. sativus rhizome ethanol extract and the hepatoprotective effect of the extract in rats.

Methods: Folin–Ciocalteau and aluminum chloride colorimetric tests were used to determine the contents of phenols and flavonoids in the R. sativus extract. Male Sprague-Dawley rats induced with CCl4 to develop hepatotoxicity were treated orally with R. sativus extract for 4 weeks. The  antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the extract on the liver were determined by evaluating the concentration of oxidative analytes, serum liver enzymes and lipids, and hepatic histopathology and cytochrome P450 2E1 expression.

Results: R. sativus extract significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the hepatotoxic effect of CCl4 via its antioxidant activities and protection of liver tissues from oxidative damage.

Conclusion: The hepatoprotective effects of R. sativus rhizome ethanol extract are attributed to its highphenolic and flavonoid contents.

Keywords: R. savitus rhizome, Phenols, Flavonoid contents, antioxidant, Hepatoprotective
Quality of life of patients with chronic kidney disease in two health facilities in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Aghoja Ogheneovo C. , Akonoghrere Rita O. , Odili Valentine U. , Ajagbe Omasan
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To determine patients’ quality of life (QoL), impact of socio-demographic characteristics as well as biochemical parameters on the quality of life of chronic kidney disease patients.

Methods: The study was a prospective, cross-sectional study carried out in the Renal Units of Central Hospital, Warri and Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, both in Nigeria. The quality of life of the patients was assessed using the generic core of Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form (KDQOL-SFTM) questionnaire. Data obtained were coded into the KDQOL--SFTM scoring program (version 1.3), while descriptive and inferential analyses were done using SPSS

Results: Overall, the quality of life scores of patients with chronic kidney disease in both Physical and Mental Health components (PCS and MCS) was low. Respondents’ PCS scores in Central Hospital Warri was 31.08 ± 4.62 while that for respondents in DELSUTH was 31.75 ± 6.01, (p = 0.39). Similarly, the MCS score for respondents in Central Hospital Warri was 37.73 ± 3.37 while it was 37.68 ± 4.09 for DELSUTH (p = 0.94). These scores were lower than the standard norm, which is 50 There was no relationship between socio-demographic characteristics and the quality of life of the respondents in both health facilities. Serum creatinine and potassium showed a negative association with quality of life PCS (p = .025 and p = .006; 2-tailed), respectively.

Conclusion: In general, the QoL of patients with chronic kidney disease in the two surveyed settings was low. None of the socio-demographic characteristics had a significant relationship with the QoL of the respondents in both health centres. There was a negative association between PCS score and both creatinine and potassium.

Keywords: Quality of life (QoL), Patients, Chronic kidney disease, Creatinine, Potassium
Monetary policy effectiveness in the liquidity trap: a switching regimes approach
Authors: Kirikos Dimitris G.
Published: January 2021

Liquidity trap economics seems to have fared particularly well on all counts of its predictions, in the aftermath of the 2008 global financial crisis. Therefore, in this paper we evaluate formally the effectiveness of unconventional monetary policy in a liquidity trap, based on data from Japan, the USA, and the eurozone over periods of liquidity trap conditions (1994–2018 for Japan and 2009–2018 for the USA and the eurozone). Under effective unconventional policies, changes in the base money-growth regime should be associated with similar regime changes in either inflation or investment expenditure growth and the estimation of a switching regimes model allows us to test whether significant joint regime shifts occur in the data. Also, a test of liquidity trap conditions is based on a discrepancy of regime shifts between growth rates of base money and broad money, since this implies a collapse of the money multiplier. Our findings show that drastic shifts in the growth rate of the monetary base do not produce similar behavior for the inflation rate, investment expenditure growth, and broad money growth, thus pointing to liquidity trap conditions and unconventional monetary policy ineffectiveness.
AN ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE AND INVESTOR’S EXPERIENCE OF INDIAN RENEWABLE ENERGY INDUSTRY
Authors: Devaraja T. S. , Jagadeesha D. K.
Published: January 2021

The development of the renewable energy industry is an important support for the sustainable development of the social economy. It is strategic significance in economic and national security is immeasurable. The process of cultivating, developing, and upgrading the renewable energy industry in India is a comprehensive system that includes finance, resources, technology, and management. Renewable energy finance is a new area of public policy that requires innovation and research that will have a significant impact on investors in the World. Till today, many researchers think renewable energy is an issue of science and engineering, but the future of renewable energy is no longer about science and technology; it's all about access to finance. The renewable energy sector in India is growing rapidly and presents an opportunity for strong financial returns. The present research paper aims to know the financial performance of selected renewable energy companies of the Indian renewable energy industry through various financial ratios. The financial performance of any industry is effect to their respective industrial investors. Hence, investors' experience is analyzed. A specific group of investors who invest in the renewable energy industry is selected and posed a structured questionnaire to know their investment experience in the renewable energy sector in India.

JEL Classification Codes: F36, P17, G23, Q29, Q43, L7
An Architecture of Procedures in Modeling for Manufacturing Logistics
Authors: Mangalika Udula
Published: January 2021

The concepts of Modeling and Simulation (M&S) are gradually becoming a fundamental sector which attracts the attention of researchers in the modern age. Operational systems in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) have to be investigated using these concepts to achieve quality results. Until now, many scholastic contributions have been published regarding the various perspectives and aspects of M&S. However, there are gaps in the discussion of the complete cycle of modeling and simulation which incorporates the verification and development of an architecture that can be used in manufacturing logistics for Product Development Schemes (PDS). In that case, this paper presents the Simulation Procedures (SP) and architecture can be used to comprehend the systems for product development. This contribution focusses on the validation and verification of the architecture as well. As such, this contribution fills the prevailing gap between the architectural design/development and the validation/verification of modeling and simulation procedures. These are the fundamentals in the application of the M&S approach to comprehend the systems of product development in SMEs.
„MI NEMAMO BUDUĆNOST“: DRŽANJE NASTAVE FILOZOFIJE NARATOSKEPTIČKIM UČENICIMA
Authors: Blagojević Bojan
Published: January 2021

The paper will deal with a challenge presented to the standard conceptions of philosophy as the art of living. Since the conceptions of a fulfilled/happy/authentic life rest on the conception of a temporally continuous self, Galen Strawson narratosceptic position and a view of the Episodic self require us to rethink the standard methods of teaching philosophy. We will assess Strawson’s position and attempt to provide a possible answer.
Rekomendasi Penggunaan Sistem Pendukung Keputusan pada SMK Negeri di Kota Malang
Authors: Ramadhani Irfan , Putri Devita Maulina
Published: January 2021

Perkembangan dunia teknologi saat ini berkembang sangat cepat seiring berjalannya waktu. Perkembangan ini diharapkan dapat bermanfaat bagi manusia dalam kelangsungan hidupnya. Saat ini pada SMK sering dijumpai berbagai macam permasalahan. Untuk penyelasaian masalah dilakukan secara sepihak oleh pimpinan atau pun pihak tertentu. Sistem pendukung keputusan merupakan suatu sistem yang mendukung pengambilan keputusan dapat berupa aplikasi maupun lain-lain dengan memanfaatkan perkembangan teknologi yang sangat pesat. Macam sistem pendukung keputusan terdapat beberapa metode yang seringkali digunakan yaitu analytical hierarchy process, simple additive weighting, TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution), dan Fuzzy. Keuntungan penggunaan sistem pendukung keputusan ini dapat membantu pengambilan keputusan secara cepat dan akurat dengan pertimbangan faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhinya. Telah dilakukan survei pada SMK Negeri sekota Malang dan didapatkan hasil bahwa belum ada yang menggunakan sistem pendukung keputusan dalam melakukan penyelesaian masalah yang ada. Maka dari itu paper ini bertujuan untuk memberikan rekomendasi sistem pendukung keputusan yang sesuai dengan kebutuhan dari permasalahan SMK yang dapat dijadikan bahan referensi dalam pembangunan sistem pendukung keputusan di SMK.
Perancangan dan Pembuatan Sistem Informasi Akademik Berbasis Web Menggunakan Framework Codeigniter dan Mysql
Authors: Dewantoro Mohamad Wahyu , Mardiyanto Madiyanto
Published: January 2021

Current technological developments are increasingly rapid, marked by increasingly integrated technology in various aspects of our lives, one of them in the aspect of education. At present, along with the development of technology, the role of technology in education is getting stronger, one of which is the application of Information Systems in Education, namely the Academic Information System. Where academic information systems are systems that manage all activities related to academic activities, such as learning processes, assignments, examinations, grades, management of students and teachers, graduation and alumni. A good School Academic Information System is a system that can achieve satisfaction from users, which in this case are prospective students, students, teachers, stakeholders, and parents so that all can feel the impact of the information system that can improve the quality of graduates from their schools.
Conceptual Model of User Satisfaction as Mediator of E-Learning Services and System Quality on Students’ Individual Performance
Authors: Riandi Muhammad Hafiz , Respati Harianto , Hidayatullah Syarif
Published: January 2021

This study aims to collect the required information to construct a conceptual model to measure e-learning information system success in higher education setting. The methodology used in this study is literature study which was done by comparing six articles from international journals across the globe. Other articles as well as books were also used to support the findings in this study. Further in-depth study and comparisons was made to find suitable variables to evaluate e-learning system success. The conclusion of this study is a conceptual model which implements user satisfaction as mediating variable of the relationship of elearning service quality and system quality on students' individual performance as a measure of e-learning system success. Furthermore, this conceptual model can be an essential reference to be implemented in further related research.
Effect of Service Experience and Perceived Value on Patients Satisfaction with Special Hospitals for Mom and Children in South Sulawesi Province
Authors: Nurfitriani Nurfitriani , Irwandy Irwandy , Wahyu Atjo
Published: January 2021

Patient satisfaction must be achieved in order to survive in the competitive hospital industry which tends to continue to grow beyond existing needs. This study aims to determine whether there is an effect of Service Experience and Perceived Value on patient satisfaction in the Inpatient Installation of the Regional Special Hospital of South Sulawesi Province (RSKD IA Pertiwi and RSKD IA Siti Fatimah). This type of research is a quantitative study using an observational study with a cross-sectional study design. The sample in this study were patients in the inpatient installation of the IA Pertiwi Regional Special Hospital (RSKD) and RSKD IA Siti Fatimah, totaling 130 respondents. The results showed that service experience based on functional clues variables, mechanic clues variables, humanistic clues variables, and perceived value affected patient satisfaction. It is recommended to every officer, both management and all employees, to maintain the dimensions of a good service experience, try to meet expectations, wants, and needs according to hospital standards, especially in the functional clues and humanistic clues dimensions by increasing the sensitivity of nurses in handling/care that can help complaints patients, there needs to be an increase in strategies in building customer value so that patients feel the pride felt by patients when they are treated in the hospital.
Pengembangan Sistem Pembelajaran Berbasis Multimedia
Authors: Suryanto Suryanto , Ariana Sunda , Rizal Syahril
Published: January 2021

Currently the development of information technology has an important influence in the development of learning systems, one of which is technology in the multimedia field. Multimedia technology is an indispensable tool for the learning process. The use of text, images, audio, video, and animation in learning helps students to quickly understand learning material. Multimedia also provides opportunities for educators to develop learning methods so that they get maximum results. AMIK AKMI Baturaja is a computer college that has not fully utilized information technology in its learning, especially in the field of Multimedia. For this reason, researchers conducted this research for the development of learning at the Campus AMIK AKMI Baturaja. This study aims to produce a multimedia-based learning media at AMIK AKMI Baturaja which can be a driving force for student learning achievement. In this study using a research method of literature study, observation, questionnaires, and interviews. The media development method uses MDLC (Multimedia Development Life Cycle) which consists of six stages, namely concept (needs analysis), design (design), material collecting, assembly, testing, and distribution. . The result of this research is a multimedia-based learning system presented in the form of e-learning. This media is expected to have a positive influence in increasing student achievement and learning independence.
PROOF GRAMMATICAL RULES IN IMAM AL-NILE APPROACH BY PROPHETIC HADITH
Authors:   Iraqia University, ABDULLAH MAHMOOD , AL-JAZAERY BASSIDI ,   Uqba Bin Nafie Elementary Education Institution
Published: January 2021

The transcriptionist in that period was a profession practiced by many copyists, and in that profession they had a methodology based on control, mastery, correction and brevity, as well as how to address the errors that occurred to them during the transcription process, and within this approach followed the approach of the coding process; The scribe put a lot of symbols, some of which were related to the abundance of words used in the transcription process, while others were shortened to the names of scholars, and this first part of coding, while the other part of coding was concerned with the method of adjusting, correcting and correcting the transcription process that the copyist adopts regarding If there is a mistake or omission in their view, or if there is an introduction and a delay, or if some words are similar to them. In our research we tried to explain these symbols and how the scribes dealt with them, while enriching the research with pictures and models for the types of symbols covered in this research, and from God the success.
Multispecies and Watershed Approaches to Freshwater Fish Conservation
Authors:   The Nature Conservancy of Texas 200 East Grayson Street, Suite 202, San Antonio, Texas 78215, USA
Published: January 2021

Abstract.—The Devils River is a groundwater-dominated, semiarid river in southwest Texas and considered one of the most pristine rivers in the state. It is one of the last strongholds for multiple species of regionally endemic freshwater fishes and mussels. However, groundwater pumping in the watershed poses an imminent threat to the river and its fragile ecosystem. Reductions in groundwater availability have the potential to result in concomitant reductions in spring discharge and thus instream flows. Base flow reductions would negatively impact many already imperiled aquatic species and degrade one of the state’s most remote and scenic paddling and angling destinations. Development of a comprehensive basinwide fish and mussel conservation plan is ideal due to the relatively small size of the watershed. However, challenges include the isolated location of the river and the low proportion of publicly held lands for implementing on-the-ground conservation measures. To best determine science needs, focus resources, and increase informed stewardship of the river, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has partnered with governmental agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, and landowners interested in preserving this unique resource. Through collaborative research aimed at a better understanding of groundwater–surface water interactions and instream flow needs of endemic species, and by building cooperative relationships with landowners and nonprofit conservation organizations, steps are underway to preserve the esthetic, ecological, and recreational values of the Devils River.