bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison Between Peer Learning and Conventional Methods in Biostatistics Course Among Postgraduate Nursing Students’ Final Score, Statistics and Test Anxiety: A Quasi-experimental Study with a Control Group
Authors: Babaahmadi Azar , Maraghi Elham , Moradi Soraya , Younespour Shima
Published: June 2021

Background: Biostatistics course is considered essential for nursing education. Thus, conceptual learning in biostatistics is highly critical for postgraduate nursing students. A large proportion of students identify this course as the most anxiety-inducing course. The largest part of students’ anxiety in the semester in which they take biostatistics course is manifested in the form of statistics anxiety in addition to test anxiety. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of the peer learning method in biostatistics course among postgraduate nursing students’ final score and test and statistics anxiety. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted during the first semester of the academic year 2019 - 2020 in the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences. Students were divided into two separate classes according to their courses. In one class, biostatistics course was taught by peers, and the lecture method as the conventional method was used for teaching in the other class. Test and statistics anxiety questionnaires were completed by the students of both groups before the educational intervention and at the end of the semester. Data was analyzed by SPSS 20 using nonparametric tests. Results: The mean final score in the lecture and peer learning groups were respectively 9.9 ± 4.60 and 11.55 ± 4.76 (P = 0.245). At the end of the course, the mean scores of statistics and test anxiety decreased in the intervention group in comparison to the conventional group. Conclusions: Using the peer learning method in biostatistics course has a positive effect on reducing test and statistics anxiety and increasing final scores in postgraduate nursing students.
Beyond a Bourgeois Bioethics
Authors: McCarthy Michael ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: June 2021

This essay draws on the work of Johann Baptist Metz to reimagine a Christian Bioethics that develops from the place of suffering. Beginning from the place of suffering resists the future offered within the scientific-technological paradigm. In turning to Metz, Christian bioethics should give greater attention to complex social structures that contribute to injustices and inequalities resulting in health disparities and unnecessary deaths.
Mise au point d’exercices visant le développement d’habiletés interactives chez des stagiaires en enseignement
Authors: Pelletier Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2021

Cet article présente les résultats de la phase d’opérationnalisation d’une recherche développement (Harvey et Loiselle, 2009). Il explicite la démarche réflexive-collaborative de mise à l’essai d’exercices pratiques visant le développement des habiletés interactives de gestion de classe de stagiaires en enseignement et souligne le potentiel de développement de l’habileté d’hyperperception chez les participants. Cette recherche s’inscrit dans le sillage des travaux ayant établi des liens étroits entre l’improvisation et l’enseignement (Azéma, 2015; Gagnon, 2010) ainsi que de ceux qui mettent en valeur la contribution d’un entraînement en improvisation au développement d’habiletés de gestion de classe (Lobman, 2005; Auteur, 2008; Auteur, 2006).
Decolonizing Educational Practices through Fostering Ethical Relationality in an Urban Indigenous Classroom
Authors: Conrad Diane H. , Moostoos-Lafferty Etienna , Burns Natalie , Wentworth Annette
Published: June 2021

To foster the success of young Indigenous learners, our study partnered with an urban Indigenous school in Alberta’s capital region. This paper explores the decolonizing practices that emerged through the ethical relationships developed with students and staff guided by the Cree wisdom teachings of wîcihitowin and wahkohtowin. A group of Indigenous and Canadian university and school-based co-researchers worked with a class of students over four years (from grade 6 to 9) incorporating Indigenous knowledges with the mandated Social Studies curriculum. The teachings included Cree language, land-based activities, ceremony and story. Students expressed appreciation for the teachings and the opportunities they had experienced over the course of the study; it was a small step towards decolonizing education.
Anti-Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies: Prevalence and Risk Factors among Pregnant Women Accessing Antenatal Care in Some Primary Health Centers in Jos Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Okojokwu Ocheme Julius , Onaji Innocent Ajegba , Entonu Entonu Elijah , Abubakar Bashiru , Adebayo Maryam , Adamu Nafisa Abduljalil , Ejembi Daniel Idu , Yusuf Ibrahim Abubakar , Ogaji Amos Obaje , Ali Murna Ahmed , Anejo-Okopi Joseph Aje
Published: June 2021

Toxoplasma gondii infection causes high rate of gestational and congenital infection across the globe and is considered a both a public health problem and a neglected disease. The study was carried out to determine the prevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies and the associated risk factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in some Primary Health Centres in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. In this cross-sectional study carried out within 5 months between Jan – May 2019, a total of 182 blood samples were collected from consenting pregnant women. Structured questionnaire was used to obtain data on socio-demography and risk factors. Three millilitres (3 ml) of blood samples were collected from the study participants. Sera were separated from the blood and evaluated for anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies (IgG and IgM) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The data collected from the experiment were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Out of the 182 samples examined, 84 (46.2%) had anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG antibody, 2 (1.1%) had IgM antibody while 98 (53.4%) were neither seropositive for IgG nor IgM. Trimester of pregnancy was significantly associated with prevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgM antibody. In conclusion, Toxoplasmosis is prevalent in Jos. Eleven out of every 1000 women (i.e. 1.1%) had recent toxoplasmosis and 53.4% were not protected against primary infection thereby underscoring the need for prevention and control during pregnancy through enlightenment.
Transabdominal Preperitoneal Patch Plasty versus Open Lichtenstein Hernia Repair – A Study
Authors: RATHER AJAZ AHMAD , SALATI SAJAD AHMAD
Published: June 2021

A study to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal patch plasty (TAPP) and open Lichtenstein repair in the management of inguinal hernia was carried out at the Department of Surgery, SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, Srinagar, Kashmir, India, from June 2017 to December 2018. Sixty patients with inguinal hernia were enrolled in the study. It was a type of non-randomized prospective cohort study, wherein 30 patients were treated with TAPP and 30 with open Lichtenstein repair. Patients were studied since admission till discharge and followed for 2 years in the outpatient department. Mean operation time in TAPP was higher than the Open Lichtenstein Repair, but the overall complications were higher in the latter. Patients with inguinal hernias who underwent repair by TAPP approach had significantly better post-operative courses than those who undergo open Lichtenstein repair.
Facial Medial Dermoid Cyst – A Case Report.
Authors: SALATI SAJAD AHMAD
Published: June 2021

A facial medial dermoid cyst in a 7-year-old male child is presented along with its Computed tomography (CT) imaging scans. The CT scan images depict clear nasal bone indentation with no erosion. Dermoid cysts are a subset of benign heterotopic neoplasms termed choristomas and periorbital dermoid cysts account for up to 9-10% of paediatric of head and neck dermoid cysts. The periorbital dermoid may occur in two variants as per the plane of location: anterior (superficial) or deep. The presented case in this report is of anterior variety at frontonasal suture.
Experimental study of multipactor on dielectric of penetration flange for vacuum chamber
Authors: Wang Xin-Bo , Bai He , Sun Qin-Fen , Yin Xin-She , Zhang Hong-Tai , Cui Wan-Zhao ,   National Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Space Microwave, Xi’an Institute of Space Radio Technology, Xi’an 710100, China
Published: June 2021

The potential, unexpected occurrence of dielectric multipactor on the dielectric surfaces in high-power radio frequency and microwave components has become a severe constraint in the research and development of space-borne payloads of space vehicles such as satellites and space stations on the ground and their long-term reliable operations in the orbit. In this experimental research, the single-surface multipactor occurring on the dielectric surface of a penetration flange originally designed for a vacuum chamber used in environmental simulation tests of spacecraft is experimentally investigated and compared with the corresponding full-wave simulated results. Under the excitation of periodic pulsed sinusoidal signals, the unusual experimental phenomena of intermittent local jumps of nulling signals in the process of multipactor are repeatedly observed based on an agile nulling experimental system. Taking advantage of the full-wave, three-dimensional (3D) particle-in-cell simulation tool, CST Particle Studio, the entire evolution process of the dielectric multipactor, from its onset to its saturation, is simulated and carefully examined. Combining the results obtained by full-wave 3D particle simulations, some physical explanations and discussion on such phenomena are presented. It is found that under the configuration parameters of pulse signals adopted in this multipactor experiment, the transition of a single-surface dielectric multipactor from its onset to the saturation state can be finished within a single pulse. However, its transition from the saturation state to turning off can last between consecutive pulses in the absence of any high-power radio frequency signals. The obtained result is important for both the theoretical study and the engineering development of high-power dielectric components, providing a new understanding of the dielectric multipactor occurring under the excitation of pulsed high-power electric fields.
Relationship between ion track characteristics and single event transients in nanometer inverter chain
Authors: Zhao Wen , Chen Wei , Luo Yin-Hong , He Chao-Hui , Shen Chen ,   School of Nuclear Science and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China,   State Key Laboratory of Intense Pulsed Radiation Simulation and Effect, Northwest Institute of Nuclear Technology, Xi’an 710024, China,   Cogenda Co Ltd., Suzhou 215000, China
Published: June 2021

Ions with the same linear energy transfer (LET) value, but different energies and species have various ion track characteristics, and thus induce different single event transient (SET) responses in combinational logics. As the technology feature size shrinks, this issue continues to be serious. The research of the relationship between ion track characteristics and SETs in the nanometer combinational logic circuits is of great significance for accurately predicting the soft error rates of nanometer devices used in spacecraft. The combinational logic circuit investigated in this paper is a 65 nm bulk silicon complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology inverter chain. The three-dimensional TCAD model of the inverter chain is established, and the particle transport program for the ion track in bulk silicon is developed by Geant4. The track characteristics of high- and low-energy ions (the energy of low-energy ions is less than 10 MeV·n–1, the energy of high-energy ions ranges from tens of MeV·n–1 to hundreds of MeV·n–1) which have the same LET value are compared with each other. Based on the coupled simulation of TCAD and Geant4, the difference in SET pulse widths, induced by ions with the same LET value but different energies, are investigated. It is found that when the energy per nucleon ratio of high-energy ion to low-energy ion increases, the difference in electron-hole pair densities near the center axis of the ion track is more significant, and thus the difference in SET pulse widths is larger. If the energy per nucleon ratio is similar, raising the LET value of ions can increase the difference in electron-hole pair densities on the same radial scale of the ion tracks, and make the SET pulse width difference more obvious. For the high- and low-energy ions with the same LET value, the single event charge generations are different. On the other hand, the change of the ion incident angle results in different charge collections. The coupling of these two factors makes the difference in SET pulse widths dependent on the incident angle of ions. In addition, the influence of ion track characteristics on SET has a weak correlation with the bias voltage of the inverter chain.
Biosynthesis of a sulfated exopolysaccharide, synechan, and bloom formation in the model cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. strain PCC 6803
Authors: Maeda Kaisei , Okuda Yukiko , Enomoto Gen , Watanabe Satoru , Ikeuchi Masahiko
Published: June 2021

Extracellularpolysaccharides of bacteria contribute to biofilm formation, stress tolerance, and infectivity. Cyanobacteria, the oxygenic photoautotrophic bacteria, uniquely produce sulfated extracellular polysaccharides among bacteria to support phototrophic biofilms. In addition, sulfated polysaccharides of cyanobacteria and other organisms have been focused as beneficial biomaterial. However, very little is known about their biosynthesis machinery and function in cyanobacteria. Here, we found that the model cyanobacterium, Synechocystis sp. strain PCC 6803, formed bloom-like cell aggregates embedded in sulfated extracellular polysaccharides (designated as synechan) and identified whole set of genes responsible for synechan biosynthesis and its transcriptional regulation, thereby suggesting a model for the synechan biosynthesis apparatus. Because similar genes are found in many cyanobacterial genomes with wide variation, our findings may lead elucidation of various sulfated polysaccharides, their functions, and their potential application in biotechnology.
AlleleShift:an R package to predict and visualize population-level changes in allele frequencies in response to climate change
Authors: Kindt Roeland
Published: June 2021

Background

At any particular location, frequencies of alleles that are associated with adaptive traits are expected to change in future climates through local adaption and migration, including assisted migration (human-implemented when climate change is more rapid than natural migration rates). Making the assumption that the baseline frequencies of alleles across environmental gradients can act as a predictor of patterns in changed climates (typically future but possibly paleo-climates), a methodology is provided byAlleleShiftof predicting changes in allele frequencies at the population level.

Methods

The prediction procedure involves a first calibration and prediction step through redundancy analysis (RDA), and a second calibration and prediction step through a generalized additive model (GAM) with a binomial family. As such, the procedure is fundamentally different to an alternative approach recently proposed to predict changes in allele frequencies from canonical correspondence analysis (CCA). The RDA step is based on the Euclidean distance that is also the typical distance used in Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA). Because the RDA step or CCA approach sometimes predict negative allele frequencies, the GAM step ensures that allele frequencies are in the range of 0 to 1.

Results

AlleleShiftprovides data sets with predicted frequencies and several visualization methods to depict the predicted shifts in allele frequencies from baseline to changed climates. These visualizations include ‘dot plot’ graphics (functionshift.dot.ggplot), pie diagrams (shift.pie.ggplot), moon diagrams (shift.moon.ggplot), ‘waffle’ diagrams (shift.waffle.ggplot) and smoothed surface diagrams of allele frequencies of baseline or future patterns in geographical space (shift.surf.ggplot). As these visualizations were generated through theggplot2package, methods of generating animations for a climate change time series are straightforward, as shown in the documentation ofAlleleShiftand in the supplemental videos.

Availability

AlleleShiftis available as an open-source R package fromhttps://cran.r-project.org/package=AlleleShiftandhttps://github.com/RoelandKindt/AlleleShift. Genetic input data is expected to be in theadegenet::genpopformat, which can be generated from theadegenet::genindformat. Climate data is available from various resources such asWorldClimandEnvirem.
Influence of Gender and Age with Consumers ‘Green Behavior’
Authors: Vistharakula Usha Rani , Kaushik Vandana
Published: June 2021

The demographic profiles of consumers play a vital role in ascertaining the buying habits, sources of information, and other factors that may affect product/brand choice etc. One of the objectives of the present study therefore was also to identify the relationship of selected demographic variables viz. gender and age with green consumer behaviour. It is pertinent to such relationships, since India is an emerging economic powerhouse, and its middle class rising to prosperity. This study was therefore conducted to understand the age and gender factors influence on the consumer green behaviour. The subjects were contacted from the four directions of Udaipur city. The data on background information, green consumer behaviour was put to suitable analysis, to be precise, frequency and percentages, t-test and correlation analysis to draw the results.
Qualitative and Quantitative Phytochemical Screening of Bitter and Neem Leaves and their Potential as Antimicrobial Growth Promoter in Poultry Feed
Authors: Ofongo Ruth T. S. , Ohimain Elijah I. , Iyayi Eustace A.
Published: June 2021

Gastrointestinal health challenges without in-feed antibiotics are a crucial concern to poultry farmers. Although, quite a few substitutes for antibiotics have emerged, phytogenics and antibiotic properties of medicinal plants cannot be overlooked with regard to control, good health and minimizing sub – clinical bacteria-induced infections by zoonotic enteropathogenic bacteria in poultry birds. Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter leaf) and Azadirachta indica (Neem) leaves were collected early in the morning and oven dried to 15% moisture content. The non-essential oil was obtained by cold maceration method using methanol. Appropriate methods were used for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of phytochemicals in the respective oils. Qualitative analysis of phytochemicals showed that, saponins and terpenoids were highly detected (+++) in V. amygdalina. Saponins and terpenoids were slightly detected (+) in A. indica. Phenolic compounds were highly detected (+++) in both plants. Flavonoids were also identified (++) in both plants, but tannins were highly detected (+++) in A. indica. Quantitative analysis revealed a rather high concentration of complete phenolic content and overall flavonoid content in V. amygdalina. Total phenolic content of 44.76 mg Gallic acid equivalent / g of extract and 57.21 mg Rutin equivalent / g of extract (total flavonoid content) was recorded in V. amygdalina and 25.77 mg Gallic acid equivalent / g of extract (total phenolic content) and 24.45 mg Rutin equivalent /g of extract (total flavonoid content) in A. indica.

In conclusion, both plant extracts exhibited possibility as suitable substitutes to proprietary antibiotics that can be beneficial to gastrointestinal health and overall performance in animal nutrition.
Urinary Tract Infections in Benin: Exploring the Virulence Factors and Antibiotic Resistance and Virulence Genes among Bacterial Isolates
Authors: Dougnon Victorien , Assogba Phénix , Mohammed Jibril , Agbankpe Jerrold , Deguenon Esther , Fabiyi Kafayath , Dougnon Jacques , Baba-Moussa Lamine , Bankole Honoré
Published: June 2021

Objective: The emergence and increasing spread of resistance to antibiotics in uropathogenic Enterobacteriaceae is a huge public health problem and increase the morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to produce scientific data on the virulence and level of resistance of these bacteria in Benin.

Results: This study was conducted on 230 strains of enterobacteria isolated from patients with urinary tract infections. These virulence factors sought were hemolysis, hemagglutination, serum resistance, biofilm formation, and the production of lipase, protease and lecithinase. The molecular characterization of the virulence and antibiotic resistance genes was accomplished by PCR according to the different conditions for each gene. The bacteria possessed several types of virulence factors such as hemagglutinin (28.26%), lipase production (23.92%) and hemolysin production (17.83%). The virulence gene identified were FimH (74.79%), PapC (30.44%), Iss (11.34%) and Biofilm (3.92%). The antibiotic resistance genes such as Bla-SHV (49.56%), Bla-CTX-M15, Bla-CTX-M2 (33.92%), Bla-CTX-M9 (19.13%) and bla-CTX-M1 (11.74%) were also detected.

Conclusion: These results filled the national gap about virulence and antimicrobial resistance of enterobacteria responsible of urinary tract infection and may be used to improve the management of patients in Benin.
Set Theory INC# ∞# Based on Infinitary Intuitionistic Logic with Restricted Modus Ponens Rule (Part.II) Hyper Inductive Definitions
Authors: Foukzon Jaykov
Published: June 2021

In this paper intuitionistic set theory INC# ∞# in infinitary set theoretical language is considered. External induction principle in nonstandard intuitionistic arithmetic were derived. Non trivial application in number theory is considered.The Goldbach-Euler theorem is obtained without anyreferences to Catalan conjecture.
Relationship between Toxoplasma Gondii and Psychotic Disorders with Implications toward a Brain-based Diagnostic System and Novel Treatment Approaches: A Study Protocol
Authors: Raja Dina , Das Shyamanta , Phukan Chimanjita , Talukdar Simanta , Bhandari Samrat Singh , Hazarika Naba Kumar , Bhagabati Dipesh
Published: June 2021

What role infectious agents play in the causation of psychotic disorders? To investigate this area, we have aimed to investigate the relationship between Toxoplasma gondii and psychotic disorders. A hospital-based cross-sectional study is designed. IgM and IgG antibodies to T. gondii in patients with psychotic disorders will be measured and presented in result. Seropositivity rates will be compared with first-degree relatives and healthy volunteers. Also, types of psychotic disorders and seropositivity rate will be compared. Here, we are presenting the study protocol with implications toward a brain-based diagnostic system and novel treatment approaches.
Application of Kagan’s Cooperative Learning Structures to Maximize Student Engagement: An Action Research
Authors: Dorji Phub , Yangzom . , Tenzin Jamyang
Published: June 2021

Aims: This action research attempted to apply and evaluate the impact of Kagan’s Cooperative Learning Structures at Gedu College of Business Studies.

Study design:  Lim’s [1] Balanced Action Research Model was used in this action research as it captures wide range of action research processes and provides the researchers to validate one's actions through critical analyses and reflections. 

Place and duration of study: The study was conducted in one college under the Royal University of Bhutan for a period of one year (2019-2020). 

Sample: One first-year Management class was selected as the focus of this action research using purposive sampling technique. Observation and a five-point Likert scale questionnaire were used as data collection tools. There were 45 students and all of them participated in filling out the questionnaire.

Methodology: Data were collected using observation and questionnaire. Observation data were analysed using content analysis technique. Out of two general categories of content analysis (conceptual analysis and relational analysis), the researchers used conceptual analysis. A five-point Likert scale questionnaire was administered to collect data on CL structures and student engagement, its feasibility and impact. Responses from the completed questionnaires were entered into SPSS for descriptive analysis.

Results: The findings revealed that CL structures like team builders, class builders and team cheers helped the students know their friends better, created a positive learning environment and helped in gaining and retaining students’ attention. Similarly, the findings revealed that CL structures helped in developing positive interdependence and individual accountability, ensured equal participation and encouraged simultaneous interaction in the class. In contrast, the findings revealed that small classroom size, large class strength and classroom furniture that do not support CL structures hindered the application of CL structures.

Conclusion: In view of these findings, the researchers recommend that the college plan and come up with classrooms and furniture that support the CL structures in teaching and learning. Further, the college should bring the class strength down as per the teacher-student ratio maintained by the Royal University of Bhutan and provide training and workshops to teachers on CL structures. Finally, teachers should make use of CL structures while teaching to engage, encourage and empower the learners.
Potential of Ethanol Extracted Secondary Metabolites of Plants from Thal Desert (Pakistan) for In vitro Changes in Haematological Indices
Authors: Yasin Ghulam , Sabir Mubasharah , Anwar Iqra , Altaf Adeela , Batool Syeda Amna , Haq Ikram Ul , Noman Ali , Hussain Khalid
Published: June 2021

Plants are adapted to stressful environments by synthesizing secondary metabolites as antioxidant having either toxicological or medicinal properties. Before utilizations of metabolites one should explore reality about their nature. By testing their in vitro effects on blood, their curing or toxic potential for influence on physiology and health status of an individual can be evaluated. In this experiment, secondary metabolites of some shrubs of Thal desert of Pakistan were extracted in ethanol and used to explore their in vitro effects on some hematological attributes as enlisted in tables. Results were statistically analyzed using Analysis Of Variance. Means of data were compared to control by DMR (Duncan’s multiple range) procedure. Ethanolic extract increased the leucocytes count granulocytes percentage, monocytes lymphocytes MCV, MCH and platelets except extract of Haloxylon stem. HBG were decreased by extract of stems of Leptadenia, Calligonum and Salsola. Leptadenia stem extract also decreased the platelets. Lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and RBC were increased by most of the plant extracts. The practical application of the plant secondary metabolites needs careful further extensive study.
Effect of Agmatine on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Induced by Type 2 Diabetes in Rats
Authors: Miski Samar F. , Ahmad Mai A. Alim A. Sattar , Esmat Ahmed
Published: June 2021

Aim: To determine the potential hepatoprotective effect of Agmatine (AGM) on NAFLD-induced by Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in rats.

Study design:  Forty male Wistar rats weighing from (200 -250 g) were distributed at random into five groups (8 rats per group): group 1 as control; group 2 as untreated-T2DM; groups 3 & 4 as T2DM cotreated with AGM (40 & 80 mg/kg/d), while group 5 T2DM cotreated with Silymarin (100 mg/kg/d).

Place and duration of study: Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, king Abdul-Aziz University; between October 2020 and January 2021.

Methodology: A rat model of T2DM with NAFLD complication was established by feeding rats with 10% fructose in drinking water and intraperitoneally injecting them with a single low dose of streptozotocin (STZ) (45mg/kg). The fasting blood glucose was detected, serum levels of hepatic biomarkers were all assessed. Moreover, histopathological examination was performed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining.

Results: STZ induced T2DM in rats causes a significant (p<0.05, n=8) rise in serum levels of FBG, ALT, AST, TB, TC, TG, and LDL in comparison with the corresponding control group. Co-treatment with AGM (40 & 80 mg/kg) and silymarin significantly alleviated hyperglycemia and amended hepatic biomarkers that was reflected on improved histopathological changes.

Conclusion: The current data suggest that oral AGM co-treatment could have a hepatoprotective effect against T2DM associated with NAFLD in rats. Further investigations are recommended to elucidate molecular mechanisms accountable for the useful effects of AGM on hepatocytes.
A Validated Reversed-Phase HPLC Analytical Method for the Analysis of Rosuvastatin Calcium in Bulk Drug and Tablet Dosage Formulation
Authors: Pimpale Awdhut , Kakde Rajendra
Published: June 2021

Aims: The current research work has desired the validated reversed-phase analytical technique for the assurance of rosuvastatin calcium in bulk and tablet formulation.

Study design: Experimental research work.

Place and duration of study: UDPS, RTM Nagpur University, Nagpur, Maharashtra State, India between June 2019 and March 2020.

Methodology: The segregation was obtained on a reversed-phase Princeton (C18) column with dimensions (250mm × 4.6mm, 5μ). The solvent system employed was a mixture of buffer, and methanol in the proportion (20:80) v/v, flow rate one ml per minute. Detection wavelength at 240 nm. The retention time (RT)beneath the developed chromatographic condition was found to be 2.848 minutes for rosuvastatin calcium.

Results: The technique indicates linearity within the range of 2-16 µg per ml with a correlation coefficient (r2) is 0.9999. The analysis of marketed tablet formulations was erect to be 99.98%. The percentage RSD was ˂2% and % recovery was found to be 97.94-100.37%.

Conclusion: The advanced reversed-phase HPLC technique was erect to be simple, specific, linear, sensitive, rapid, accurate, precise, economical, and can be utilized for daily quality control of rosuvastatin calcium in tablet and bulk formulations.
A Pioneering Physiotherapeutic Approach to the Treatment of a COVID Affected Patient – A Case Report
Authors: Siroya Vaishnavi , Fernandes Lynn , Wadhokar Om C.
Published: June 2021

The Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-19) originated from Wuhan, China and has affected globe since 2019. The virus spread to India in January, 2020. It is highly contagious. In its severe form, the victims of the virus suffered from symptoms such as breathing difficulties, fever, weakness, loss of taste and smell, amongst others. Patients were put on mechanical ventilators and as a result, the requirement of the role of cardio-respiratory physiotherapists became more and more essential. Even after weaning off from the ventilators and being detected Coronavirus negative, the role of the physiotherapists still remained indispensable in order to bring about improvement in the muscle strength of the affected weakened muscles, especially for patients whose movements were limited for extended periods of times due to being dependent on the ventilators; physiotherapists were also required to bring about improvement in the lung capacities and function, to teach gait training for those who find it difficult to walk, to improve in-coordination and overall allow the patients to come back to normal and carry out all the ADL independently and well. He had a severe difficulty in breathing and coughing, along with a generalized weakness all over his body, specifically both his lower limbs. He was admitted in the ICU immediately and was on mechanical ventilator. After all the physiotherapy sessions, the patient was able to carry out his activities of daily living independently; he regained his muscle strength and improved his coordination and ability to walk with a proper gait. He was also able to breathe independently with adequate respiratory muscle strength; and did not feel fatigued as quickly as he used to when he was detected positive for Coronavirus.
Multi‐cohort profiling reveals elevated CSF levels of brain‐enriched proteins in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Bergström Sofia , Remnestål Julia , Yousef Jamil , Olofsson Jennie , Markaki Ioanna , Carvalho Stephanie , Corvol Jean‐Christophe , Kultima Kim , Kilander Lena , Löwenmark Malin , Ingelsson Martin , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Nellgård Bengt , Brosseron Frederic , Heneka Michael T. , Bosch Beatriz , Sanchez‐Valle Raquel , Månberg Anna , Svenningsson Per , Nilsson Peter
Published: June 2021

Objective

Decreased amyloid beta (Aβ) 42 together with increased tau and phospho‐tau in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is indicative of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the molecular pathophysiology underlying the slowly progressive cognitive decline observed in AD is not fully understood and it is not known what other CSF biomarkers may be altered in early disease stages.

Methods

We utilized an antibody‐based suspension bead array to analyze levels of 216 proteins in CSF from AD patients, patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and controls from two independent cohorts collected within the AETIONOMY consortium. Two additional cohorts from Sweden were used for biological verification.

Results

Six proteins, amphiphysin (AMPH), aquaporin 4 (AQP4), cAMP‐regulated phosphoprotein 21 (ARPP21), growth‐associated protein 43 (GAP43), neurofilament medium polypeptide (NEFM), and synuclein beta (SNCB) were found at increased levels in CSF from AD patients compared with controls. Next, we used CSF levels of Aβ42 and tau for the stratification of the MCI patients and observed increased levels of AMPH, AQP4, ARPP21, GAP43, and SNCB in the MCI subgroups with abnormal tau levels compared with controls. Further characterization revealed strong to moderate correlations between these five proteins and tau concentrations.

Interpretation

In conclusion, we report six extensively replicated candidate biomarkers with the potential to reflect disease development. Continued evaluation of these proteins will determine to what extent they can aid in the discrimination of MCI patients with and without an underlying AD etiology, and if they have the potential to contribute to a better understanding of the AD continuum.
Multi‐trait selection for mean performance and stability in maize
Authors: Olivoto Tiago , Nardino Maicon , Meira Daniela , Meier Carine , Follmann Diego N. , de Souza Velci Q. , Konflanz Valmor A. , Baretta Diego
Published: June 2021

There is a need to strengthen maize (Zea maysL.) breeding strategies based on multivariate selection to obtain high‐yielding hybrids that are more stable and resilient to contrasting environmental conditions. Here, we show how the multi‐trait stability index (MTSI) can be used to select maize hybrids for mean performance and stability of multiple traits. A set of 10 traits, including grain yield (GY), yield components, and plant‐related traits with negative and positive desired selection gains (SGs), were accessed in 90 F1hybrids conducted in multi‐environment trials. Hybrid and hybrid × location interaction effects were significant (p≤ .001) for all analyzed traits. The MTSI provided positive gains for all the four traits that were wanted to increase (2.52% ≤ SG ≤ 4.86; mean, 3.28%), including GY (SG, 4.86%), and negative gains for all the six traits that were wanted to decrease (–20.28% ≤ SG ≤ –0.09%; mean, –6.70%), including tassel branch number (SG, –20.28%) and plant height (SG, –1.2%). We also observed desired gains for the stability of all traits. Direct and univariate selection for GY solely was not efficient to provide desired gains for all traits. The MTSI provides a unique, robust, and easy‐to‐handle selection process that allows identifying the strengths and weaknesses of hybrids. The index was found to be a powerful tool to develop better selection strategies, optimizing the use of resources and time, thus contributing to the sustainability of maize breeding programs worldwide.
White clover living mulch enhances soil health vs. annual cover crops
Authors: Hill Nicholas S. , Levi Matthew , Basinger Nicholas , Thompson Aaron , Cabrera Miguel , Wallace Jason , Saikawa Eri , Avramov Alexander , Mullican Jill
Published: June 2021

Cover crops can improve soil health by increasing soil organic matter, soil porosity, permeability, and crop yield. Yet, land planted to cover crops are often limited by economic constraints. Perennial living mulch (LM) cover crops may provide better benefits to soil health because they are actively growing throughout the year and self‐regenerate without reseeding. The objective of this study was to compare the impact of a white clover (Trifolium repens L.) LM vs. annual cover crops on soil health traits. Treatments were established on a Cecil sandy loam soil in the fall of 2014 and annual cover crop treatments re‐established each fall of the following 3 yr. White clover re‐established in the LM without reseeding. Corn (Zea mays L.) was planted into the treatments in the spring of each year. Soils were sampled at the V4/V5, V12, and R5 stages of corn development and analyzed for chemical traits. Surface soil characteristics were measured after corn harvest in 2018. Soils in the LM system had lower lime buffering capacity and greater pH, base saturation, cation exchange capacity (CEC), Ca, K2O, Mg, P2O5, and total organic C concentrations than other treatments. Soil NH3 and NO3 had seasonal fluctuations associated with mineral N fertilizer and were lower in the LM treatment. After 3 yr, the soil bulk density was lower and porosity, water infiltration, and labile C were greater in surface soils from the LM treatment than in the surface soils of the other treatments. Use of a perennial LM cover crops expedited soil health regeneration compared to other treatments.
Real‐time quantitative PCR: A tool for absolute and relative quantification
Authors: Harshitha Ravikumar , Arunraj Duraipandian Rex
Published: June 2021

Real‐time quantitative PCR is a technique used to monitor the PCR reaction in real time. RT‐qPCR is broadly classified into two types based on its purpose: absolute and relative quantification. Absolute quantification is used in a wide array of fields such as microbiology, food technology, and biotechnology to quantify the microbiological load/adulterants in a commodity/copy numbers respectively, whereas Relative quantification is used in the field of genomics and functional transcriptomics to perform gene expression analysis in biological experiments. A laboratory work that covers the basic principles involved in RT‐qPCR and data analysis using the manual as well as the software methods are incorporated. The laboratory experiment was designed to provide insights on certain important principles such as primer characteristics, PCR efficiency, and melt curve analysis. This laboratory exercise provides all the significant components of RT‐qPCR, which can be useful while performing an experiment in an undergraduate and graduate laboratory.
Evaluating the effect of secretome of human amniotic mesenchymal stromal cells on apoptosis induction and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition inhibition in LNCaP prostate cancer cells based on 2D and 3D cell culture models
Authors: Safari Fatemeh , Shakery Termeh , Sayadamin Nadiya
Published: June 2021

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most prevalent cancer in men worldwide. Most cases of death from PCa are due to metastasis. Early stages of metastasis are mediated by epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) process through which cancer cells acquire motility and invasive characteristics. Thus, more potent and novel therapeutic strategies must be designed based on the inhibition of EMT or metastasis. Herein, we employ a co‐culture system to evaluate the anti‐EMT effects of human amniotic mesenchymal stromal cells (hAMSCs) on LNCaP PCa cells. The RNA of treated (sample) and untreated cancer cells (control) and whole‐cell lysates of related cells were prepared and analysed through quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and western blot, respectively. Based on the results, the expression of vimentin, Snail and Zeb1 in LNCaP cells decreased and the expression of E‐cadherin increased after treatment with hAMSCs. Furthermore, induction of the cellular apoptosis in LNCaP cells was detected. The anti‐cancer activity of conditioned medium from hAMSCs was shown using hanging drop technique (a 3D cell culture model). Our findings support the idea that stem cells can be considered as a novel therapeutic approach to inhibit prostate cancer cells.

Significance of the study

The anti‐tumour activity of hAMSCs on LNCaP prostate cancer cells using 2D and 3D cell culture models via induction of apoptosis, suppression of EMT process and down‐regulation of EGFR was shown. The results of the present study support this idea that hAMSCs may be a potent therapeutic tool to suppress tumour growth in LNCaP prostate cancer cells.
Design Strategies of Si/C Composite Anode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: You Shunzhang , Tan HuiTeng , Wei Licheng , Tan Wei , Chao Li Cheng
Published: June 2021

Silicon‐based materials that have higher theoretical specific capacity than other conventional anodes, such as carbon materials, Li2TiO3 materials and Sn‐based materials, become a hot topic in research of lithium‐ion battery (LIB). However, the low conductivity and large volume expansion of silicon‐based materials hinders the commercialization of silicon‐based materials. Until recent years, these issues are alleviated by the combination of carbon‐based materials. In this review, the preparation of Si/C materials by different synthetic methods in the past decade is reviewed along with their respective advantages and disadvantages. In addition, Si/C materials formed by silicon and different carbon‐based materials is summarized, where the influences of carbons on the electrochemical performance of silicon are emphasized. Lastly, future research direction in the material design and optimization of Si/C materials is proposed to fill the current gap in the development of efficient Si/C anode for LIBs.
Development of bioreactor protocols for stem cell‐based therapies
Authors: Panchalingam Krishna , Wang Tony , Jung Sunghoon , Ahmadian Baghbaderani Behnam
Published: June 2021

Stem cell‐based therapies offer a new treatment alternative for individuals suffering from devastating disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD). Derivation and transplantation of stem cells or their derivatives have shown significant therapeutic outcomes in animal model studies and clinical trials. However, commercialization of stem cell‐based therapies and widespread access to these treatments are largely hampered by access to large quantities of high‐quality products generated under standardized, robust, and controlled conditions. Over the last three decades, the Pharmaceutical Production Research Facility (PPRF) of the University of Calgary, founded by the late Professor Leo A. Behie, has carried out groundbreaking research focusing on the fundamentals of bioprocessing for various stem cells including human neural precursor cells (NPCs) and mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs). These efforts led to the development of serum‐free growth media and expansion protocols for large‐scale production of therapeutically‐relevant NPCs for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Similarly, high‐performance, defined growth media and reliable, large‐scale computer‐controlled bioreactor protocols were developed for the expansion of MSCs derived from human bone marrow and other sources and the generation of a therapeutically‐relevant secretome. Important bioprocessing considerations such as the hydrodynamics of the bioreactor, mass transfer, cellular microenvironment and synergistic impact of media components were evaluated in these studies. Undoubtedly, the diverse topics of research carried out at PPRF significantly contributed to the translation of the laboratory‐based stem cell culture studies into production of clinical‐grade materials and eventually commercialization of stem cell‐based therapies through applying principles of bioengineering and bioprocessing.
Cancer incidence in the middle region of Libya: Data from the cancer epidemiology study in Misurata
Authors: Zarmouh Anas , Almalti Abdulrahman , Alzedam Ahmad , Hamad Marwa , Elmughrabi Hamad , Alnajjar Laila , Elmugassabi Mohammed , Kashbour Muataz , Elsaghayer Wesam
Published: June 2021

Background

Cancer incidence and cancer registries are essential for local epidemiological information. In Libya, scarce evidence exists with regard to incidence rates and distribution.

Aim

To estimate cancer incidence in Libya and draw trends of cancer type distribution compared to regional and worldwide data. Such incidence data are needed to inform strategic decisions on cancer facilities, training, and research in the given geographical area of Misurata, the major city in the middle region and third largest in Libya.

Methods

This is an observational, multi‐centre, city‐wide study to account for all cancer cases. All radiology (computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging) and pathology reports were examined across all public and private hospitals in and around Misurata.

Results

Four hundred and thirty cancer cases were identified to have been diagnosed during 12 months (July 2019–June 2020), yielding a cancer incidence of 71.7 per 100 000 population. Breast cancer (84, 19.5%), colorectal cancer (83, 19.3%), lung cancer (33, 7.7%), and prostate cancer (21, 4.9%) had the highest prevalence.

Conclusion

Cancer incidence established in this study stands at 71.1, much lower than the worldwide reported incidence of 201.0. Several limitations lead to missing cancer cases from the survey period, mostly related to poor documentation, non‐research friendly environment, and disorganised healthcare structure. Nevertheless, distribution by type represents a true contrast to the world cancer report. Finally, a national or regional inclusive cancer registry is essential to the flow of information that supports strategic planning and decision‐making in developing cancer care in the country.
Chemical Upcycling of Waste Poly(bisphenol A carbonate) to 1,4,2‐Dioxazol‐5‐ones and One‐Pot C−H Amidation
Authors: Jung Hyun Jin , Park Sora , Lee Hyun Sub , Shin Hyun Gyu , Yoo Yeji , Baral Ek Raj , Lee Jun Hee , Kwak Jaesung , Kim Jeung Gon
Published: June 2021

Chemical upcycling of poly(bisphenol A carbonate) (PC) was achieved in this study with hydroxamic acid nucleophiles, giving rise to synthetically valuable 1,4,2‐dioxazol‐5‐ones and bisphenol A. Using 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]‐dec‐5‐ene (TBD), non‐green carbodiimidazole or phosgene carbonylation agents used in conventional dioxazolone synthesis were successfully replaced with PC, and environmentally harmful bisphenol A was simultaneously recovered. Assorted hydroxamic acids exhibited good‐to‐excellent efficiencies and green chemical features, promising broad synthetic application scope. In addition, a green aryl amide synthesis process was developed, involving one‐pot depolymerization from polycarbonate to dioxazolone followed by rhodium‐catalyzed C−H amidation, including gram‐scale examples with used compact discs.