bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analisis program latihan sepak bola Sekolah Sepak Bola Sekundang di Kabupaten Bengkulu Kepahiang
Authors: Saputra Doni
Published: August 2021

This study aims to determine the implementation of the SSB Sekundang soccer training program, South Bengkulu Regency. The approach method used in this research is qualitative. The research was conducted to determine how the implementation of the SSB Sekundang training program in South Bengkulu Regency made by the trainer whether it has been programmed properly or not and whether it is sustainable.Therefore this research is categorized into the qualitative research category. The population in this study was the athletes of SSB Sekundang of South Bengkulu. The data collection techniques in this study used observation, interview and documentation methods. For a sample of 23 athletes and 2 trainers. The data analysis technique used interactive analysis and domain analysis. From the results of data analysis, qualitative, research results testing, and discussion, it can be concluded that the implementation of the training program has been going well and the following items have been made by the trainer.
Grain Quality Research of Rice for Ensuring Nutritional Food Security
Authors: Shozib HB , Siddiquee MA , Rahman NMF , Mamun MAA , Sarkar MAR , Rabbi SMHA , Salam MU , Kabir MS
Published: August 2021

Per capita rice consumption in Bangladesh is in a decreasing trend. Considering the constant loss of per capita daily dietary energy @ 0.028% year-1, nutrition-based prediction of daily dietary energy intake (kcal) may be reduced to 2201 and 2188 kcal for our population by 2030 and 2050, respectively. We are optimistic that consuming per capita rice consumption of 365 g and 363 g (dry wt. basis) in 2030 and 2050, respectively will help to attain the current trends of 59.0% of Calorie intake from rice only. Appro-priate amount of rice intake including incorporating rice-based products in our daily diet, we will able to attain daily required dietary allowance and combination of both may ensure nutritional security along with food security in Bangladesh in a way to effective utilization of the rice grain. Rice is nutraceu-tically enriched because of the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and antioxidants. Research thrust of BRRI is to focus on releasing nutraceutically enriched HYVs such as high zinc, high iron, beta carotene (A Vit A precursor) enriched antioxidant rice etc. Gluten free rice-based bakery products have potential to get popularize in Bangladeshi population with ensuring high nutritional value and effective management of controlling non-communicable diseases since lesser amount of rice carbohydrates are being utilized in formulating products such as rice biscuit, rice cake etc. BRRI has formulated gluten free rice-based energy dense product specially rice biscuit (ED 5.15) could be extended as a potential nutri-tionally balanced dry food application in malnutrition mitigation programme, school feeding nutritional programme and humanitarian relief operation replacing current wheat-based products.
Bangladesh Rice J. 24 (2): 103-117, 2021
Agronomic Management and Interventions to Increase Rice Yield in Bangladesh
Authors: Bhuiyan MKA , Islam AKMS , Sarkar MAR , Mamun MAA , Salam MU , Kabir MS
Published: August 2021

Avenues of agronomic manipulation need to be explored critically for getting potential rice yield in a given environment. Increasing population, decreasing resources and increasing climate vulnerability such as salinity, drought, submergence, early flash flood in haor areas can interrupt achieving the target of rice yield. Location specific variety, profitable cropping sequences, innovative and smart cultural management, and appropriate agronomic management with smart dissemination using multiple means would maximize rice yield and decrease the production barriers of rice. Appropriate variety and location- specific crop management systems should be formulated for rice yield maximization to reduce yield gap in farmers’ field. A number of approaches can be undertaken for maximizing rice yield by adopting location-specific crop production e.g., manipulating sowing and planting times, appropriate weed management technology in proper time, suitable variety selection for improving cropping intensity, Judicious and balance application of organic and inorganic fertilizer application etc. Nitrogen application before panicle primordia is crucial because at this stage panicle primordia determined the spikelet number of the panicle and the absorbed nitrogen is efficiently used to increase spikelet number, accumulated photosynthates to leaf sheath and culm and, hence, increases panicle size and grain yield. Farmers should have a plan and should follow different steps of rice production to get higher yield and sustain productivity. Rice growth stage- wise agronomic management should be followed to get maximum yield. Choice of appropriate variety in a specific location or ecosystem is a major concern that contributed about 20% to the grain yield. Whereas management is a big issues which contributed about 60% for obtaining higher grain yield.The difference of environment × management explained the largest variations ( 80%) in explaining the yield. The bridging of knowledge gaps can bridge yield gaps. New paradigms need to be added to transfer and use new high yielding varieties and knowledge based technologies under new policy settings.
Bangladesh Rice J. 24 (2): 161-181, 2021
Management and Utilization Strategy of Water Resources for Rice Production
Authors: Hossain MB , Maniruzzaman M , Islam AKMS , Salam MU , Kabir MS
Published: August 2021

Declination of available water resources is threatening the dry season crop production in Bangladesh. Sustainable water management is crucial need to meet future food production. This study was aimed to determine futuristic water management strategy for rice cultivation. Both surface and groundwater is getting scarce in north-west region, whereas abundant of fresh surface water creating opportunities to irrigate dry season crops in south-central region. This study has outlined irrigation management for rice cultivation and groundwater utilization in water scarce area of north-west region. More than 75% of annual rainfall occurred during monsoon and crops other than monsoon often faced water shortage. Timely establishment of T. Aus rice on 01 May accounted average 183 mm supplemental irrigation for north-west and south-west region. Transplanting of T. Aman rice before 24 July found the low risk period of drought and gave about 1 t ha-1 yield advantage than late transplanting after 15 October. Supplemental irrigation in drought year gave up to 26% yield advantage than the rain-fed condition of T. Aman rice in experimental plot. Over exploitation of groundwater by famers for crop cultivation makes the groundwater status worsen. Farmers used 38% excess water than the actual requirement for Boro rice cultivation. For that annual groundwater withdrawal was higher than annual recharge causing groundwater level depletion in most of the districts. Groundwater table went below suction limit of shallow tubewell (STW) during dry season and thus it become unable to operate. Improved distribution system with plastic pipe, buried pipe could save about 25% of irrigation water. Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) irrigation method saved 20-25% water than farmer’s practice. Application of these on-farm water management technologies in Boro rice reduced water demand and made the groundwater balance positive as well as reduced the groundwater withdrawal pressure. On the contrary, irrigation with less saline surface water resources in river and canals of south central regions could expand Boro production and increased land productivity. Intervention of low lift pump with plastic pipe distribution in non-saline tidal areas could increase land productivity. Besides, trapped freshwater in to the canals inside the polders and re-excavation of these canals would make crop intensification. Thus, additional food production could help to achieve sustainable development goal and sustained food security.
Bangladesh Rice J. 25 (1) : 37-50, 2021
Role of Training in Transferring Rice Production Technologies to Farm Level
Authors: Hossain MS , Islam AKMS , Kabir MJ , Sarkar MAR , Mamun MAA , Rahman MC , Salam MU , Kabir MS
Published: August 2021

Farmers' knowledge gap in modern rice cultural practice is the main cause of the existing yield gap in Bangladesh. Thus, this paper delineates; (i) the level of farmers’ knowledge gap; (ii) assesses the impact of training on changes in the farmers' skills, knowledge as well as technology adoption, and crop performance. Finally propose an approach for improving farmers’ skills on modern rice cultural practices through fruitful training. Secondary data, in particular, journal articles were reviewed and analyzed in the paper. From the analysis, we found that majority of the farmers (85%) belong to the medium level of the overall knowledge gap category. There was a significant increase in the knowledge and skills of farmers after undertaking the training. As a result, the rice yield of trained progressive farmers increased to 4.7 t ha-1 in 2012 from 3.1 t ha-1 in 2008. However, the rice yield of ordinary trained farmers increased to 3.7 t ha-1 in 2012 from around 2.6 t ha-1 in 2008. The traditional extension approach was less efficacious to improve farmers' knowledge gap and disseminate the rice production technologies to the farm level. Therefore, strengthening BRRI's capacity to provide seed to seed training to most of the DAE personnel to upgrade their skills on modern rice technologies is critically important. Besides, demonstrations based farmers training might be highly productive in transferring modern rice production technologies to the farmers.
Bangladesh Rice J. 25 (1) : 111-120, 2021
PHONOLOGICAL SYSTEM OF BANGKA MALAY LANGUAGE, TOBOALI DIALECT, IN SOUTH BANGKA REGENCY
Authors: Manalu Herland Franley , Sigalingging Bob Morison , Wulansari Dini
Published: August 2021

The factors that led to the extinction of a regional language dialect are the absence of inputting the vocabulary into a dictionary, recording the phonological system to academic articles, and the absence of language enthusiasts or linguists who want to maintain the existence of a dialect in a community. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the phonological system in the Toboali dialect as the variant of the Malay language in the South Bangka Regency. The research is triggered by the decreasing use of regional languages in society and it purports to identify and describe the phonological system of the Toboali dialect. To do that, this study uses a qualitative method in which the researchers firstly collected data, then analyzed and classified the data, and finally drew a conclusion. The Swadesh list which consists of 250 vocabularies was utilized during the interview. The researchers obtained the Toboali dialect words by gesturing or pointing to objects and images so the informants were able to pronounce the words and then the phonetic transcription could be written. Thus, the data obtained are accurate because the language obtained was not delivered in Indonesian but is purely pronounced in the Toboali dialect. The results of this study indicate that there are 7 vowels: [?], [e], [o], [i], [?], [?], [a] and 19 consonants are found in the Toboali dialect: [b], [c], [d], [f], [g], [h], [j], [k], [l], [m], [n], [p], [r], [s], [t], [w], [y], [z], and [?].
ANALISIS PERANGKAT PEMBELAJARAN KELAS IV TEMA 2 SUBTEMA 2 PEMBELAJARAN 1 DI MI SUNAN GIRI PAGAK
Authors: Cholifah Tety Nur
Published: August 2021

Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi kegiatan belajar tatap muka kembali setelah adanya pandemic Covid-19 yang awalnya kegiatan belajar dilakukan secara daring. Adanya kebijakan baru tersebut, guru harus menyusun perangkat pembelajaran yang sesuai agar minat peserta didik dalam kegiatan pembelajaran dapat meningkat. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk menganalisis perangkat pembelajaran di kelas IV sekolah dasar, khususnya dalm pembelajaran tema 2 yang menganalisis terkait RPP, bahan ajar, metode dan media pembelajaran dalam upaya meningktakna minat belajar peserta didik di MI Sunan Giri Pagak. Penelitian yang dilakukan yaitu penelitian kualitatif deskriptif. Dengan metode analisis dan wawancara. Hasil penelitian yang diperoleh yaitu dalam penyusunan RPP terdapat kendala seperti dalam penyusunan metode dan media pembelajaran harus sesuai dengan kondisi dan karakteristik siswa maupun sekolah tersebut. Hal ini dapat mempengaruhi minat peserta didik dalam mengikuti kegiatan belajar mengajar
PENGARUH MODEL KOOPERATIF TIPE THINK PAIRS SHARE (TPS) TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR SISWA PADA PEMBELAJARAN TEMATIK KELAS III SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Azis Khusnul Khotimah , Wibowo Andi
Published: August 2021

Inovasi dalam menerapkan metode atau model perlu dilakukan oleh guru dalam kegiatan pembelajaran. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh model kooperatif tipe TPS terhadap hasil belajar siswa yang menggunakan model kooperatif tipe TPS pada pembelajaran. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian kuantitatif eksperimen semu. Sedangkan desain penelitiannya adalah eksperimen Nonequivalent Control Group yang memilih kelompok eksperimen dan kelompok kontrol secara random. Uji hipotesis menggunakan Independent Sample T Test. Subyek penelitian adalah 41 siswa kelas III SDN 2 Sumberejo Kecamatan Gedangan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh hasil belajar signifikan antara kelas eksperimen dan kelas kontrol dengan perolehan nilai rata-rata pretest kelas eksperimen sebesar 57% dan nilai posttest sebesar 78% dengan persentase peningkatan sebesar 21%. Sedangkan untuk kelas kontrol diperoleh nilai pretest sebesar 47% dan nilai posttest sebesar 63% dengan persentase peningkatan sebesar 16%. Hasil uji t = 2,097 Sig. 0,043 < 0,05 dan dinyatakan bahwa H0 ditolak dan H1 diterima, artinya terdapat pengaruh pada pembelajaran tematik yang menggunakan model TPS.
Electroestimulación neuromuscular en la atención de niños con necesidades educativas especiales con disfagia
Authors: Alvarado-Espinoza Sofia
Published: August 2021

La electroestimulación neuromuscular (EENM) como técnica empleada dentro la electroterapia revierte gran importancia en el fortalecimiento de diferentes grupos musculares a partir de la excitación de las terminaciones nerviosas o el propio tejido muscular favoreciendo la contracción de este durante actividades funcionales. Objetivo: Diseñar acciones metodológicas para el empleo de la técnica de EENM en la atención de niños con necesidades educativas especiales con disfagia. Métodos: Estudio no experimental descriptivo, en el que se incluyen nueve niños escolarizados con disfagia, que asisten al Centro de Educación Especializada “Hogar de Nazareth” de Fe y Alegría y a la Unidad de Educación Especializada “Carlos Mora”, ubicados en el Distrito 8 de Educación y de Salud en la ciudad de Guayaquil, Ecuador, con previo consentimiento informado de sus representantes legales. Resultados: Se muestran las acciones metodológicas a seguir para la aplicación de la técnica de EENM en estos educandos. Discusión: Las investigaciones revisadas coinciden en la importancia que tiene la EENM en la atención de la disfagia, más no coinciden en las acciones metodológicas a tener en cuenta para su desarrollo, favoreciendo la diversidad de criterios. Conclusiones: Reflejan las regularidades encontradas en la teoría respecto a la relevancia e importancia de la aplicación de la técnica de EENM en el tratamiento de la disfagia, justificado en los efectos positivos que propician una mejor calidad de vida tanto para el niño como para su grupo familiar, se especifica el proceder metodológico para el empleo de la técnica de EENM en niños con Necesidades Educativas Especiales con disfagia.
O engajamento discente durante a pandemia por Covid-19 frente ao ensino remoto e ao uso do GoogleClassroom
Authors: Santos Júnior Sérgio Rômulo Alves dos , Almeida Júnior Railson Alves Correia de , Silva Syntia Meneses , Oliveira Ronaldo Simão de , Andrade Juliana Nascimento
Published: August 2021

A crise sanitária provocada pelo Covid-19 impulsionou as aulas a distância através do ensino remoto e o uso de plataformas como o GoogleClassroom desenvolvido com foco na integração entre professores e alunos. O presente artigo teve como objetivo avaliar o engajamento discente durante a pandemia por Covid-19 frente ao ensino remoto e ao uso do GoogleClassroom. Tratou-se de um estudo de natureza básica, por meio de revisão bibliográfica, de caráter descritivo e exploratório, cujos dados foram tratados de maneira qualitativa para compreender a participação dos alunos nas aulas síncronas utilizando a ferramenta GoogleClassroom como plataforma de acompanhamento dos conteúdos abordados em aulas virtuais durante a pandemia. A pesquisa foi realizada por meio da realização de buscas nos repositórios bases Periódicos CAPES e Google Scholar, utilizando os seguintes descritores: “engajamento”, “ensino remoto”, “pandemia por Covid-19” e “GoogleClassroom”. Após a seleção criteriosa, foram selecionados 15 artigos publicados em periódicos nacionais dos últimos 5 anos. A análise dos artigos demonstra que as ferramentas educacionais de interação online permitiram a realização de um trabalho inovador, focado na formação inicial e continuada de alunos, bem como na integração entre os participantes da turma. O uso de plataformas online e aulas virtuais favoreceram o planejamento de ações, proporcionando ganho de conhecimento individual e coletivo.
DEVELOPMENT OF AN ENHANCED EXAM MANAGEMENT
Authors: Mgbeafulike Ike , Chekwube Ezechi
Published: August 2021

The technological advancement in IT has
brought about the need for computer usage in all areas of
human life and endeavors, education sector also. The
traditional method of conducting exams is often
characterized by questions leakages, human errors during
marking of students scripts and recording of students
scores. This work, An Enhanced Exam Management
System was, therefore, born out of the will to solve the
problems plaguing the conventional (paper-based)
examination system by providing a campus-wide service
for e-assessment devoid of dishonest conduct and equally
enhances quick feedback. The developed system which
uses a combination of HTML, PHP, MySQL reduces the
proportion of workload on examination, grading and
reviewing on the part of examiners. The system also
enables the release of exam results in record time and
without errors. Thus, this system can serve as a solution
for mass education evaluation and offers many features
that cannot be implemented in paper-based system.
Examining the Views of Preservice Science Teachers on Creating Concept Maps
Authors:   Science Education, Faculty of Education, Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Turkey, Demirci Tuba , Memiş Esra Kabataş ,   Science Education, Faculty of Education, Kastamonu University, Turkey
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to examine the views of preservice science teachers on concept map use in a General Chemistry II class. The study was conducted with 47 preservice science teachers. In the study, an interview form grounded on determining their views on concept maps and comprised of open-ended questions, was used as the data collection tool. In analysis of the data acquired, content analysis was performed. As a result of the analysis of the data, the preservice teachers expressed positive views on concept map use. They stated that it might contribute to their learning and increase the permanence of the knowledge learned. Also, they reported that they liked creating concept maps and among the concept map types they usually chose to create hierarchical concept maps. Most of the preservice teachers stated that they had to know the subject related to the concept map very well in order to create concept maps more easily, otherwise they might have a difficulty in the concept map creation process and thus concept maps should generally be used after a lecture. In addition the preservice teachers stated that they intended to use concept maps in their teaching experience. As a result, before concept maps are used in teaching, it is recommended to inform students about the creation of concept maps, to use them for re-purpose in teaching activities, and to include activities containing concept maps in textbooks.
Developing Paradigms, Patterns, and Mechanisms for Science Teachers’ Professional Development in Area-Based Networks in Thailand
Authors:   Department of Science Education, Faculty of Education, Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University, Thailand, Sawadthaisong Nattakit
Published: August 2021

The main purpose of this research was to develop a paradigm, pattern, and mechanism for the professional development of science teachers in area networks that was consistent with the needs of educational institutions according to the key priority agenda for development. The target groups used in this study were teacher production institutions and educational institutions in the northeastern region of Thailand. Research tools included data collection forms and questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed by standard statistical methods, including frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, priority need index (PNI), and content analysis. The results revealed that the paradigm, pattern, and mechanism for science teachers’ professional development found in the northeastern area–based networks of Thailand were individual-based development (ID), spiral patterns (SP), and multiple networks (MN). Individual-based development was a new paradigm of professional development that emphasized the driving force and quality from within by progressive and individualized programs using students’ outcome-based development. The spiral pattern was a professional development model emphasizing self-paced learning with diversity and an integrated model through blended, action-based learning, both on-the-job training and off-the-job training, using coaching and mentoring from the teacher production institution in the area. The multiple networks were a professional development mechanism cooperating and supported by a school, university, private sector, and local and national affiliation using school-based development. The way forward is to form a professional learning community using a cooperation network in a school which acts as a mechanism to drive policies for cooperative practice. Recommendations are offered as a result of this study. The results revealed that the paradigm, pattern, and mechanism for science teachers’ professional development found in the northeastern area–based networks of Thailand were individual-based development (ID), spiral patterns (PS), and multiple networks (MN). Individual-based development was a new paradigm of professional development that emphasized the driving force and quality from within by progressive and individualized programs using students’ outcome-based development. The spiral pattern was a professional development model emphasizing self-paced learning with diversity and an integrated model through blended, action-based learning, both on-the-job training and off-the-job training, using coaching and mentoring from the teacher production institution in the area. The multiple networks were a professional development mechanism cooperating and supported by a school, university, private sector, and local and national affiliation using school-based development.
Online Simulators for the Teaching of the Law of Conservation of Matter and Chemical Reactions in High School
Authors:   Department of Chemical Sciences, FES-Cuautitlan UNAM, Physical Chemistry MADEMS (Chemistry), Mexico, Obaya Adolfo V. , Barocio Yvonne Rodríguez ,   Instituto Víctor Frankl Campus Tepalcapa Edo, de Mexico, Mexico, Rodríguez Yolanda Marina Vargas ,   Department of Chemical Sciences, FES-Cuautitlan UNAM, Physical Chemistry MADEMS (Chemistry), Mexico
Published: August 2021

It is imperative that a profound transformation be carried out in the traditional way in which we teach science subjects, so it is necessary that the role of student change from being a mere recipient of information to being the main player in the construction of his knowledge. One of the strategies to achieve this is to make use of ICT, within which are educational simulators, as a support resource to facilitate the teaching-learning processes taught in the classroom. The didactic strategy developed in this work was carried out with the PhET (https://phet.colorado.edu) simulator was used to improve the teaching of the Law of Conservation of the Matter and its relationship with chemical reactions. To evaluate the learning acquired by students, the Hake factor was determined. In terms of the implementation of this didactic strategy, students demonstrated greater recognition, understanding, and appropriation of the knowledge gained about the importance of this law in chemical reactions. This teaching strategy is useful for higher middle-level schools that do not have a school science lab.
Investigation of the Interaction of Students’ Mental Models with Peer Instructional Elements in an Undergraduate Physics Course
Authors:   Faculty of Education, Department of Mathematics and Science Education, Physics Education Major, Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University, Turkey, Korhasan Nilüfer Didis
Published: August 2021

Peer Instruction (PI) involves interaction between students and provides opportunities for students to reveal their own ideas, articulate their thinking, and facilitate construction of their knowledge with social interaction. Since the classroom environment of PI provides a rich information for students to discuss scientific phenomena, this research examined how students’ mental models interacted with Peer Instructional elements in an undergraduate level physics course. After the identification of students’ mental models of wave-particle duality in the first step of the project, the analyses of several data sources showed that some group-related issues, such as the explanatory based annotations before classes, good performance answering conceptual questions and discussion of additional concepts during classes, were important for scientific understanding. When students have similar group environments (i.e., peers in the same group), then individual pre-class preparation had a positive influence on students' scientific mental models of wave-particle duality. In addition, students having scientific models indicated that the satisfaction with their knowledge and the importance of conflict with their peers for their learning. All students in the classroom stated they benefited from peer discussions in different ways such as by recalling and reinforcing their knowledge, by getting feedback, and by reconstructing their knowledge. Both pre-class preparation and discussion of additional concepts and conflicting ideas in peer groups should be promoted in physics classes for facilitation of construction of scientific mental models.
Dehydrogenation Mechanism of Three Stereoisomers of Butane-2,3-Diol in Pseudomonas putida KT2440
Authors: Liu Yidong , Wang Xiuqing , Ma Liting , Lü Min , Zhang Wen , Lü Chuanjuan , Gao Chao , Xu Ping , Ma Cuiqing
Published: August 2021

Pseudomonas putida KT2440 is a promising chassis of industrial biotechnology due to its metabolic versatility. Butane-2,3-diol (2,3-BDO) is a precursor of numerous value-added chemicals. It is also a microbial metabolite which widely exists in various habiting environments of P. putida KT2440. It was reported that P. putida KT2440 is able to use 2,3-BDO as a sole carbon source for growth. There are three stereoisomeric forms of 2,3-BDO: (2R,3R)-2,3-BDO, meso-2,3-BDO and (2S,3S)-2,3-BDO. However, whether P. putida KT2440 can utilize three stereoisomeric forms of 2,3-BDO has not been elucidated. Here, we revealed the genomic and enzymic basis of P. putida KT2440 for dehydrogenation of different stereoisomers of 2,3-BDO into acetoin, which will be channeled to central mechanism via acetoin dehydrogenase enzyme system. (2R,3R)-2,3-BDO dehydrogenase (PP0552) was detailedly characterized and identified to participate in (2R,3R)-2,3-BDO and meso-2,3-BDO dehydrogenation. Two quinoprotein alcohol dehydrogenases, PedE (PP2674) and PedH (PP2679), were confirmed to be responsible for (2S,3S)-2,3-BDO dehydrogenation. The function redundancy and inverse regulation of PedH and PedE by lanthanide availability provides a mechanism for the adaption of P. putida KT2440 to variable environmental conditions. Elucidation of the mechanism of 2,3-BDO catabolism in P. putida KT2440 would provide new insights for bioproduction of 2,3-BDO-derived chemicals based on this robust chassis.
Recent Progress in the Understanding of the Effect of Sympathetic Nerves on Hair Follicle Growth
Authors: Zhang Jiarui , Chen Ruosi , Wen Lihong , Fan Zhexiang , Guo Yilong , Hu Zhiqi , Miao Yong
Published: August 2021

Clinical observation and experimental studies have long suggested that the perifollicular nerves have nutritional and regulatory effects on the growth, development, and physiological cycle of hair follicles (HFs), even though the concrete mechanism remains obscure. Recently, with the progress of immunohistochemistry and molecular biology techniques, more innovation has been made in the study of the follicular sympathetic nerves and its nerve-effect factor norepinephrine affecting hair follicle stem cells. This review highlights the progress in the regulation of the sympathetic nervous system toward the growth of HFs.
The Association of Trp64Arg Polymorphism in the Beta-Adrenergic Receptor With Insulin Resistance: Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Hai-Dan , Zhang Cai-Shun , Li Man-Wen , Lin Qian , Zhang Qing , Liu De-Feng , Ma Zheng-Ye , Dong Jing
Published: August 2021

Background

Insulin resistance is a metabolic disorder that occurs in type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. Genetic factors such as β3-adrenoceptor polymorphism (Trp64Arg) may be involved in IR and insulin secretion. However, their association is controversial. Therefore, the current meta-analysis was conducted to clarify the relationship between the Trp64Arg and IR.

Methods

The literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science using the keywords “Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-3, Receptors, Adrenergic, Insulin Resistance, Protein-Coupled Receptor Kinase 3” from 2005 to February 7, 2021. We used a random-effects model to calculate the pooled effect size. We conducted subgroup analysis and regression analysis to identify sources of heterogeneity; and Egger’s test and funnel plot were used to test publication bias. Finally, we conducted a sensitivity analysis.

Results

We included eight papers with 1,586 subjects. There was a positive correlation between Trp64Arg mutation and insulin level (standardized mean difference = 0.20, 95% confidence intervals: 0.00 to 0.39, I2 = 57.6%, p = 0.016). However, there was no association between Trp64Arg and the homeostasis model (HOMA-IR) assessment. Egger’s tests showed no publication bias; the sensitivity analysis showed that our results were stable. Regression analysis revealed no source of heterogeneity.

Conclusion

Trp64Arg may be associated with IR. European ancestry, obesity, plasma insulin level, and test status may be potential factors affecting the relationship between Trp64Arg and IR.
Age-Influenced Receptors of Advanced Glycation End Product Overexpression Associated With Osteogenic Differentiation Impairment in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Phimphilai Mattabhorn , Pothacharoen Peraphan , Kongtawelert Prachya
Published: August 2021

Preclinical studies have found impaired osteogenic differentiation to be associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), which is related to skeletal accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Our previous study also showed impaired osteogenic differentiation in peripheral blood-derived mononuclear cells (PBMC) isolated from patients with long-standing T2DM, which is conceivably due to the overexpression of receptor of advance glycation end products (RAGE) and the enhancement of cellular apoptosis. However, the existence of RAGE overexpression in earlier stages of diabetes remains unclear, as do the factors influencing that RAGE overexpression. This cross-sectional study enrolled 40 patients with T2DM treated with metformin monotherapy and 30 age-matched non-diabetic controls (NDM) to investigate the overexpression of RAGE in PBMC derived from patients with earlier stage diabetes, as well as to explore its determining factors. Almost all (90%) PBMC-isolated from NDM (NDM-pD) expressed osteoblast-specific genes including ALPL, BGLAP, COL1A1, and RUNX2/PPAR while only 40% of PBMC-derived from diabetic patients (DM-pD) expressed those genes. By using age- and pentosidine-matched NDM-pD as a reference, AGER and BAX/BCL2 expression in PBMC isolated from diabetic patients showing impaired osteoblast-specific gene expression (DM-iD) were 6.6 and 5 folds higher than the reference while AGER and BAX/BCL2 expression in DM-pD were comparable to the reference. AGER expression showed a significant positive correlation with age (r=0.470, p=0.003). The multivariate analysis demonstrated that both age and AGER expression correlated with the potential for osteogenic differentiation in the PBMC isolated from patients with diabetes. In conclusion, this study showed osteogenic differentiation impairment in approximately half of PBMC derived from type 2 diabetic patients receiving metformin monotherapy. Both AGER and BAX/BCL2 overexpression were demonstrated only in PBMC-isolated from diabetic patients with poor osteogenic differentiation. Therefore, this study not only illustrated the existence of RAGE overexpression in PBMC derived from patients with early stages of T2DM but also strengthened the linkage between that RAGE overexpression and the retardation of osteogenic differentiation. Age was also shown to be a positive influencing factor for RAGE overexpression. Furthermore, both age and RAGE overexpression were demonstrated as independent risk factors for determining osteogenic differentiation potential of the PBMC-isolated from T2DM.
Electromagnetic Torque Improvement of Doubly Salient Permanent Magnet Machine Using Pole Ratio Adjustment Technique
Authors: Sriwannarat Warat , Seangwong Pattasad , Siritaratiwat Apirat , Fernando Nuwantha , Dechgummarn Yuttana , Khunkitti Pirat
Published: August 2021

This paper introduces the pole ratio adjustment technique to improve the torque characteristics of the doubly salient permanent magnetic machine (DSPM). The electrical characteristics of the machine, namely the magnetic field distribution, flux linkage, back-electromotive force (EMF), and cogging torque, were obtained under open-circuit conditions. The electromagnetic torque and ripple torque were examined under the loaded condition. The simulations, based on the 2D-finite element method, show that the optimal pole ratio for the DSPM structure is with 18 stator teeth and 15 rotor poles. This optimal structure achieves a larger phase back-EMF than the conventional structure, as well as had a better magnetic flux path with a reasonable cogging torque. The on-load test also confirmes that the proposed optimal structure can produce a significantly higher electromagnetic torque than the conventional machine while maintaining a satisfactory torque ripple. Furthermore, an experimental prototype of the DSPM structure having 18/15 stator/rotor poles was fabricated and tested to verify the simulations. The experimental results were in good agreement with the simulations. The design technique and the fabricated prototype demonstrate the DSPM utilization for low-speed/high torque applications.
Temperature Influences on Interactions Among Aflatoxigenic Species of Aspergillus Section Flavi During Maize Colonization
Authors: Ching'anda Connel , Atehnkeng Joseph , Bandyopadhyay Ranajit , Callicott Kenneth A. , Orbach Marc J. , Mehl Hillary L. , Cotty Peter J.
Published: August 2021

Fungal species within Aspergillus section Flavi contaminate food and feed with aflatoxins. These toxic fungal metabolites compromise human and animal health and disrupt trade. Genotypically and phenotypically diverse species co-infect crops, but temporal and spatial variation in frequencies of different lineages suggests that environmental factors such as temperature may influence structure of aflatoxin-producing fungal communities. Furthermore, though most species within Aspergillus section Flavi produce sclerotia, divergent sclerotial morphologies (small or S-type sclerotia vs. large or L-type sclerotia) and differences in types and quantities of aflatoxins produced suggest lineages are adapted to different life strategies. Temperature is a key parameter influencing pre- and post-harvest aflatoxin contamination of crops. We tested the hypothesis that species of aflatoxin-producing fungi that differ in sclerotial morphology will vary in competitive ability and that outcomes of competition and aflatoxin production will be modulated by temperature. Paired competition experiments between highly aflatoxigenic S-type species (A. aflatoxiformans and Lethal Aflatoxicosis Fungus) and L-type species (A. flavus L morphotype and A. parasiticus) were conducted on maize kernels at 25 and 30°C. Proportions of each isolate growing within and sporulating on kernels were measured using quantitative pyrosequencing. At 30°C, S-type fungi were more effective at host colonization compared to L-type isolates. Total aflatoxins and the proportion of B vs. G aflatoxins were greater at 30°C compared to 25°C. Sporulation by L-type isolates was reduced during competition with S-type fungi at 30°C, while relative quantities of conidia produced by S-type species either increased or did not change during competition. Results indicate that both species interactions and temperature can shape population structure of Aspergillus section Flavi, with warmer temperatures favoring growth and dispersal of highly toxigenic species with S-type sclerotia.
Plasma Concentration of 12-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acid, Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of 12-Lipooxygenase Gene and Vaso-Occlusion in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Duru Augustine Nwakuche , Ocheni Sunday , Ibegbulam Obike , Okpala Iheanyi
Published: August 2021

Background and Novel Aspect of this Work: In the light of previous findings that inflammation predisposes to intercellular adhesion and microvascular occlusion in sickle cell disease (SCD), this study investigated the relationship between the number of vaso-occlusive events in SCD, plasma levels of the pro-inflammatory molecules 12-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE), TNF-α and IL-1β; and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene 12-Lipooxygenase (ALOX-12), which encodes the enzyme 12-Lipoxygenase that catalyzes the biosynthesis of 12-HETE.

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between vaso-occlusion in SCD and plasma concentrations of 12-HETE, TNF-α, and IL-1β; and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ALOX-12 gene.

Participants and Methods: In 50 HbSS patients, the numbers of vaso-occlusive crisis requiring hospital treatment in the previous 1 year and the vaso-occlusive complications of SCD developed to date (e.g stroke) were added to obtain the vaso-occlusive events (VOE) score. In the HbSS patients and 30 healthy sibling control persons, plasma concentrations of 12-HETE, TNF-α and IL-1β were measured by ELISA, the ALOX12 SNPs rs2073438 and rs1126667 detected by DNA sequencing, and the accrued data statistically analyzed.

Results: Compared to SCD patients with VOE score 0–1, those with scores ≥3 had higher plasma levels of 12-HETE (p < 0.0001) and TNF-α (p = 0.19), but not IL-1β (p = 0.27). VOE score showed strong direct correlation with plasma level of 12-HETE (r = 0.65, p < 0.0001), but not with TNF-α nor IL-1β. Neither VOE score nor plasma concentration of 12-HETE showed any relationship with the ALOX12 SNPs rs2073438 and rs1126667.

Conclusion: The strong direct correlation of VOE score with plasma concentration of 12-HETE suggests that the clinical relevance of this pro-inflammatory molecule in SCD-associated vaso-occlusion needs to be evaluated in further studies.
Myeloid-Derived Suppressive Cells Deficient in Liver X Receptor α Protected From Autoimmune Hepatitis
Authors: Li Bo , Lian Min , Li Yikang , Qian Qiwei , Zhang Jun , Liu Qiaoyan , Tang Ruqi , Ma Xiong
Published: August 2021

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) emerge as a promising candidate for the immunotherapy of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). However, targets for modulating MDSC in AIH are still being searched. Liver X receptors (LXRs) are important nuclear receptors linking lipid metabolism and immune responses. Despite the extensive studies of LXR in myeloid compartment, its role in MDSCs is currently less understood. Herein, expression of LXRα was found to be upregulated in AIH patients and colocalized with hepatic MDSCs. In ConA-induced hepatitis, deletion of LXRα led to increased expansion of MDSCs in the liver and alleviated the hepatic injury. MDSCs in LXRα−/− mice exhibited enhanced proliferation and survival comparing with WT mice. T-cell proliferation assay and adoptive cell transfer experiment validated the potent immunoregulatory role of MDSCs in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, MDSCs from LXRα−/− mice possessed significantly lower expression of interferon regulatory factor 8 (IRF-8), a key negative regulator of MDSC differentiation. Transcriptional activation of IRF-8 by LXRα was further demonstrated

Conclusion

We reported that abrogation of LXRα facilitated the expansion of MDSCs via downregulating IRF-8, and thereby ameliorated hepatic immune injury profoundly. Our work highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting LXRα in AIH.
Recent Advances and Methodological Considerations on Vaccine Candidates for Human Schistosomiasis
Authors: Panzner Ursula , Excler Jean-Louis , Kim Jerome H. , Marks Florian , Carter Darrick , Siddiqui Afzal A.
Published: August 2021

Schistosomiasis remains a neglected tropical disease of major public health concern with high levels of morbidity in various parts of the world. Although considerable efforts in implementing mass drug administration programs utilizing praziquantel have been deployed, schistosomiasis is still not contained. A vaccine may therefore be an essential part of multifaceted prevention control efforts. In the 1990s, a joint United Nations committee promoting parasite vaccines shortlisted promising candidates including for schistosomiasis discussed below. After examining the complexity of immune responses in human hosts infected with schistosomes, we review and discuss the antigen design and preclinical and clinical development of the four leading vaccine candidates: Sm-TSP-2 in Phase 1b/2b, Sm14 in Phase 2a/2b, Sm-p80 in Phase 1 preparation, and Sh28GST in Phase 3. Our assessment of currently leading vaccine candidates revealed some methodological issues that preclude a fair comparison between candidates and the rationale to advance in clinical development. These include (1) variability in animal models - in particular non-human primate studies - and predictive values of each for protection in humans; (2) lack of consensus on the assessment of parasitological and immunological parameters; (3) absence of reliable surrogate markers of protection; (4) lack of well-designed parasitological and immunological natural history studies in the context of mass drug administration with praziquantel. The controlled human infection model - while promising and unique - requires validation against efficacy outcomes in endemic settings. Further research is also needed on the impact of advanced adjuvants targeting specific parts of the innate immune system that may induce potent, protective and durable immune responses with the ultimate goal of achieving meaningful worm reduction.
Analysis of Primary Iris and Ciliary Body Cysts in Chinese Patients With Primary Angle Closure Disease
Authors: Wei Kun , Zuo Chengguo , Xu Jinyi , Chen Liming , Wang Dingqiao , Tang Zhongshu , Lin Mingkai
Published: August 2021

Aim: To investigate the incidence and clinical features of primary iris and ciliary body cysts in Chinese primary angle closure disease (PACD). Patients were evaluated by measuring and analyzing the cysts with an ultrasound biomicroscope (UBM).

Methods: The data of patients diagnosed with PACD were reviewed. Demographic data were collected, and the cyst number, size, location, and trabecular-iris angle (TIA) were measured, with the size including the longest diameter (LD) and its corresponding vertical diameter (CVD).

Results: A total of 1,334 cases (2,317 eyes) were reviewed, and 409 cysts were found in 131 cases (168 eyes), with an average of 2.43 ± 3.14 cysts per eye. The ages of the patients with cysts ranged from 25 to 80 years, with an average age of 55.24 ± 12.22 years. The detection rate was 7.3%, and the majority of cysts were located in the iridociliary sulcus. Among the 131 patients, 94 had monocular cysts, while binocular cysts occurred in 37 patients. The locations of the cysts in both eyes were mainly in the inferior and temporal quadrants (42.5 and 34.0%, respectively). The cysts were mainly of medium size (49.9%), followed by small cysts (33.3%), large cysts (14.7%) and giant cysts (2.2%). The average LD was 0.68 ± 0.33 mm, and the average CVD was 0.45 ± 0.23 mm. There were no statistically significant differences in the TIA between the cyst area and unaffected area.

Conclusions: The incidence of cysts is 7.3% in the PACD population. The cysts are mainly monocular, medium in size, and located in the iridociliary sulcus. Additionally, the cysts were located mainly in the inferior and temporal quadrants. These cysts have little effect on the anterior chamber angle.
Serum Bilirubin Levels and Extent of Symptomatic Intracranial Atherosclerotic Stenosis in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yu Fang , Zhang Lin , Liao Di , Luo Yunfang , Feng Xianjing , Liu Zeyu , Xia Jian
Published: August 2021

Background: Bilirubin plays a paradoxical role in the pathological mechanism of stroke. To date, few clinical studies have investigated the effect of serum bilirubin on symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (sICAS). This study aims to evaluate the connection between serum bilirubin and sICAS.

Methods: From September 2015 to May 2020, 1,156 sICAS patients without hepatobiliary diseases admitted to our hospital were included. Patients were distributed into none-mild (0–49%), moderate (50–69%) and severe-occlusion sICAS groups (70–100%) by the degree of artery stenosis. Moderate and severe-occlusion sICAS patients were classified into three groups by the number of stenotic arteries (single-, two- and multiple-vessel stenosis). The relationship between serum bilirubin levels and sICAS was analyzed by logistic regression analysis.

Results: In univariable analyses, sICAS patients with severe and multiple atherosclerotic stenoses had lower levels of total bilirubin (Tbil), direct bilirubin (Dbil), and indirect bilirubin (Ibil). In multinomial logistic regression analyses, when compared with the highest tertile of bilirubin, lower levels of Tbil, Dbil, and Ibil showed higher risks of severe-occlusion sICAS (95% CI: 2.018–6.075 in tertile 1 for Tbil; 2.380–7.410 in tertile 1 for Dbil; 1.758–5.641 in tertile 1 for Ibil). Moreover, the logistic regression analyses showed that lower levels of Tbil, Dbil, and Ibil were related to multiple (≥3) atherosclerotic stenoses (95% CI: 2.365–5.298 in tertile 1 and 2.312–5.208 in tertile 2 for Tbil; 1.743–3.835 in tertile 1 and 1.416–3.144 in tertile 2 for Dbil; 2.361–5.345 in tertile 1 and 1.604–3.545 in tertile 2 for Ibil) when compared with tertile 3.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that lower bilirubin levels may indicate severe and multiple intracranial atherosclerotic stenoses.