bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of herbal alternatives in maintaining oral health in cancer patients
Authors: Jeddy Nadeem , Bettie Nirmal Famila , Saravanan R , Sai Lakshmi L J , Radhika T
Published: January 2022

Herbal rinses possess different medicinal properties. Numerous studies have reported the usefulness of various herbal oral rinses. Few studies claimed that herbal rinses are superior to synthetic mouth rinses for certain purposes, but there appears to be a lack of sound scientific evidence to prove the efficacy of herbal rinses in controlling oral plaque in cancer patients. This review analyses the various clinical studies on herbal rinses and aims to find the safety and efficacy of red ginseng mouth rinses over other available mouth rinses in carcinoma patients. A thorough electronic search was conducted in various databases and 10 articles were included in the review based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data extracted were tabulated and analyzed. The risk of bias table was drawn. Meta-analysis was not performed due to the heterogeneity of the included studies. Of the 10 clinical trials included in the review, three studies appeared to have low risk of bias. The mean follow-up period was 14 days, ranging from 7 to 21 days. The sample size in each study was reported to be between 10 and 50, except one study with 240 samples. Seven studies have reported a significant difference between the herbal mouth rinse group and the chlorhexidine group. Of all the herbal rinses, mouth rinses with ginger extracts show more efficacy over other herbal rinses and red ginseng appears to be a more safer herbal rinse. Based on the available evidence, herbal mouth rinses are comparable to synthetic mouth rinses in their anti-bacterial properties. The red ginseng with anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties may be an alternative mouth rinse in cancer patients. However, further clinical trials with more samples are required for better evidence.
Cephalic index, facial index and dental parameters
Authors: Muralidhar Nitin V , Ranjan Abhishek , Jayashankar Rao J S , Sreeshyla H S , Nitin Priyanka
Published: January 2022

Background:

It becomes extremely challenging for forensic artists to reconstruct the highly decomposed faces, especially during mass disasters. It would be of great help for the identifying team of experts if there was a method to determine the facial and cephalic dimensions. This study aims to provide a method to generate a simplified method to calculate the facial and cephalic indices of an individual based on the dentition since human dentition remains almost intact in most scenarios.

Materials and Methods:

The sample consisted of 200 participants with the age range of 18–23 years belonging to Kerala. The cephalic and facial indices were measured using a caliper. The interincisal, intercanine, interpremolar and intermolar widths of maxillary dentition were measured on study models using a digital vernier caliper. The mean cranial and facial index were calculated and were correlated with interdental measurements.

Results:

It was concluded that dominant head types in Kerala males were dolichocephalic (50.2%) followed by mesocephalic (29.8%). In females, the dominant head types were dolichocephalic (42.7%) followed by mesocephalic (42.2%). In the facial types, majority of individuals were found to be leptoprosopic. A good correlation was found between the intercanine width with facial width and cranial width and a simplified formula were derived to estimate the cranial and facial index for this population.

Conclusion:

The results of the study suggest that the facial index and cranial index of a particular population can be evaluated from interdental measurements of the maxillary cast, especially the intercanine width.
Chordoid Meningioma. Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Prokopienko M , Wierzba-Bobrowicz T , Grajkowska W , Stępień T , Sobstyl M
Published: January 2022

Chordoid meningioma is an uncommon histopathological type of meningioma, frequently associated with Castleman's syndrome. Histologically, chordoid meningiomas are similar to chordomas. Because of their high proliferative index, they present aggressive biological behavior and high risk of postoperative recurrence. We report a case of chordoid meningioma in an adult patient without Castleman's syndrome manifestation. As its chordoid feature is related with a rapid recurrence after incomplete removal, meticulous histopathological examination is crucial for the adequate postoperative treatment plan.
Yogic postures and brain wave activation
Authors: De Anup , Mondal Samiran , Ghosh Soumendra Nath
Published: January 2022

Background:

Yoga is a practice to control and develop the mental function. Scientists are trying to establish the effect of yoga on the various systems and organs in the human body by using different scientific methods and research techniques. The brain is one of the main targeted organs in yoga research.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to identify the electrical responses of the brain after immediate yogasana practices.

Materials and Methods:

Ten male (n=10) yoga practitioners having more than 8 years of experience in yogasana practice were selected as participants. Before and after immediate practices of six specific yoga postures were assessed on three different consecutive days for 15, 22.5, and 30 min. Delta, theta, alpha, sensory-motor rhythm (SMR), beta, and gamma amplitudes were assessed under the circumstance of electrical activity of the brain and measured using NeXus-10 device.

Results:

The outcome of the brain wave components showed that there was a decrease in delta (9.12%, 12.3%, and 19.52%), theta (12.32%, 15.9%, and 16.09%), alpha (11.99%, 17.49%, and 13.21%), SMR (6.89%, 17.27%, and 13.5%), beta (0.29%, 13.95%, and 14.4%) amplitude immediately after 15, 22.5, and 30 min practice of yoga postures, respectively. In the case of gamma amplitude, initially, it increased 8.58% in 15 min practice, there after decreasing trend was observed in 22.5 min (11.47%) and 30 min practice (15.9%).

Conclusions:

Immediate yogasana practices may enhance the functions of brain wave activity which increases motor activity, autonomic flexibility, and associates with a better cognitive state.
Heroes in Harm’s Way
Authors: Fedtke Jana , Ibahrine Mohammed , Wang Yuting
Published: January 2022

This paper examines COVID-19 narratives of China as a form of soft power. The coronavirus pandemic and its handling have presented an image problem for China on the global stage. The country has struggled to control the narratives surrounding the pandemic. This article is interdisciplinary in nature with a focus on contemporary Chinese history, culture, and politics, as well as communication issues and narratives. It analyses non-fictional and fictional narratives as part of China’s COVID-19 diplomacy. Beyond documentaries, this paper examines the two docudramas Heroes in Harm’s Way 最美逆行者 (2020) and With You 在一起 (2020) and how these popular TV shows present the coronavirus crisis in China at the beginning of the pandemic. We argue that they provide positive narratives of the COVID-19 response that highlight people’s courage and sacrifice to inspire the Chinese population to stand together as a nation. The docudramas showcase everyday life during the lockdown in Wuhan over 76 days from the end of January 2020 to early April 2020. Nurses, doctors, and patients are represented as heroic characters who fight the pandemic together. Heroes in Harm’s Way and With You are testament of a united China broadcast both to domestic audiences and viewers abroad. The docudramas function as damage control to enhance China’s image in the world. This helps increase China’s soft power as the country presents itself as a capable force for good within its boundaries and beyond.
The Idea of Supreme Peace (Taiping) in Premodern Chinese Philosophies of History
Authors: Rogacz Dawid
Published: January 2022

The paper examines the development of the idea of Supreme Peace (taiping 太平) in premodern Chinese philosophies of history. It is shown that while Daoists identified it with the pristine unity of humans and nature, Han Confucians equated Supreme Peace with the harmonious social system under the rule of one of the first Chinese emperors or Confucius. In the latter case, the notion of taiping was reduced to a descriptive category, which was then employed by historiography but ridiculed in the critical thought of Wang Chong. With Huainanzi and the Xiang’er commentary to Laozi, the Daoists started to argue that it is possible to restore the Supreme Peace under new historical conditions. This was systematically developed in the Scripture of Supreme Peace (Taipingjing), which offered a detailed depiction of the future era of equality and freedom. However, after this radicalization, the idea of taiping was utilized by imperial propaganda and disappeared from the dominant philosophical discourse. An exception to this rule was Li Gou (1009–1059), who envisaged Supreme Peace as an ideal socio-economic system resulting from endowing peasants with land and money. A similar vision was expressed by Gong Zizhen (1792–1841), for whom Supreme Peace had to entail land equalization and the reduction of social inequalities. Similarly to Taipingjing, however, Gong Zizhen described taiping as the culmination point of the increase of human knowledge. With such an approach, the premodern Chinese views of Supreme Peace became noticeably close to Western progressivism, and therefore inspired the utopian project of Kang Youwei.
COVID-19 in Asia – Changing Life as We Know It and the New Normal
Authors: Rošker Jana S.
Published: January 2022

The present issue of Asian Studies is devoted to the investigation of the causes, effects, and ethical and ideological implications of the COVID-19 pandemic in Asia, particularly in East and South-East Asia. COVID-19 has had a dramatic impact on global societies. There have been enormous changes in the economy, lifestyles, education, culture, and many other aspects of social life (Caron 2021, 1). The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed societies, cultures, organizations, infrastructures, and many social services into a completely new reality. In this respect, the COVID-19 pandemic is without doubt a crisis of global proportions. Therefore, the whole of humanity should try to find a strategic solution to it, and to this end, the importance of intercultural dialog is manifested in a particularly clear and unambiguous way.
Road pricing: a solution to Ghana's traffic congestion
Authors: Andoh Charles , Mensah Lord , Quaye Daniel
Published: January 2022

Congestion in major cities around the world calls for the proper management of space vehicles occupy on road networks. The paper develops models that combine the density of car usage in an area, space occupies by vehicles and the damage they cause to roads in the payment of vehicle registration, renewal, and towing rates. The paper confirms that larger vehicles cause greater congestion on roads by virtue of the space they occupy and causes greater damage to the road, as compared to small-sized vehicles. Vehicles should pay road rates commensurate with the density of vehicles, the space they occupy and the damage they cause to the road. From our models, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota, Camry are undercharged across all the offices in the country, except for Tema and Bolga, which charges 120 and 80 Ghana cedis respectively above the 60 Ghana cedis national charge. For new car registration fees, we found that the current charge is higher for New Audi A1 Sportback 2019 except at theTema registration office, which charges more than 20 Ghana cedi above the national charge of 100 Ghana cedis. The paper also provides models for costing the removal of vehicles that park at unauthorized places as well as broken-down vehicles on highways. The paper suggests that this method of road user rates payment, aside being a good source of revenue for governments would encourage people to patronize public transport. This will ease road congestion, road rage as well as other unwanted road behaviors, particularly around and within city centres.
Assessment of the Impact of Natural Ventilation in the Renovated Katsina General Hospital, Katsina State, Nigeria.
Authors: Abdulhamid Fahad , Tukur Rukayyatu Bashiru
Published: January 2022

The increasing cases of accidents, ailments, epidemics, pandemics (such as the most recent novel Corona virus) and growing population causes overcrowding and air stagnation. Low air velocity, dampness and high thermal discomfort in the interior of the hospitals causing series of deteriorations. These problems compelled the Katsina State Government to embark on general renovation and expansion of General Hospital Katsina adding more facilities to support the growing health needs of its citizens. The study aims to assess the impact of the renovation of the General Hospital Katsina which commenced late 2016 and completed in 2018 on natural ventilation considering the climate of the region. This study takes qualitative approach using physical measurement of temperature and air velocity before and after the successful renovation exercise. Data were collected from the study area. Comparison of indoor air velocity and air temperature as indicators of natural ventilation was done and air velocity increases to 0.06 m/s while temperature dropped with 10C which enhance thermal comfort. It is highly recommended that professionals should look into natural ventilation during design of hospitals.

Keywords: air temperature, air velocity, natural ventilation, Katsina General Hospital
Synthesis and Evaluation of the Antidiabetic Potentials of Chitosan Combinations with Metformin and Momordica Balsamina Leaf Extract in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Kabir Nafisatu , Aliyu Aliyu Sunusi , Jibrin Jibrin Iliyasu
Published: January 2022

Chitosan, a carbohydrate biopolymer, is medically gaining attention as a dietary supplement and a drug beneficial for improving blood glycemia, impaired glucose tolerance and altered lipid metabolism. Largely obtained from crustaceans, chitosan is also a promising vehicle used to deliver anti-diabetic drugs in implantable as well as injectable and oral routes. The present study is therefore aimed to synthesize chitosan and evaluate its antidiabetic potentials in combination with metformin and/or methanolic leaf extract of Momordica balsamina (MBM) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Chitosan was synthesized from crayfish shell through demineralization, deproteinization, deacetylation, and decolouration of the produced chitin. In the present study, a simple and an inexpensive acid-base titrimetric method was used for the determination of degree of deacetylation while the physicochemical properties; moisture content and ash content were determined using standard procedures.The efficacy of the drug binary systems of chitosan-metformin and chitosan-MBM were evaluated on the glucose tolerance of Wistar Albino rats made diabetic by a single interperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg body weight). The oral administration of both drug binary systems and chitosan exerted a significant (p<0.05) improvement on carbohydrate metabolism via glucose tolerance test when compared to the untreated diabetic rats. The blood glucose level of the chitosan group returned to near normal level 2 hours post-porandially, while chitosan-MBM, chitosanmetformin and metformin groups returned to their initial values only after 4 hours. Our findings are suggestive of the fact that chitosan-based drug binary systems possess anti-hyperglycemic activities and thus the potential to improve the pharmacokinetic and pharmacological profile of oral hypoglycemic drugs/herbs. Our findings could serve as basis for the development of novel antidiabetic drug systems.

Keywords: Antidiabetic, Chitosan, Metformin, Methanolic extract, Momordica balsamina
A Mathematical Model of Political Rumour in Assakio Community with Conditional Latent Period in a Varying Population
Authors: Emmanuel Atanyi Yusuf , Akayede Imam , Olagunju A. S , Aimufua Aimufua , Zion Apene Oghenevovwero , Sani Umar , Isah S. H.
Published: January 2022

In this paper a rumour propagation model with conditional latent period and varying population is considered. In the literature, classical model assume that an ignorant individual enters the latent period and decide whether to become a spreader or stifler. In our model we introduce a new compartment called the blackmailers, another type of spreaders who spread the rumour for selfish reason. The model equations are first transformed into proportions, thus reducing the model equations from five to four differential equations. The model exhibit two equilibra, namely the Rumour Free Equilibrium (RFE) and the Rumour Endemic Equilibrium (REE). Using the method of linearized stability, we establish that the RFE state exist and is locally asymptomatically stable when R0 < 1  and that when R0 > 1 the endemic state exist. The model allows us to discuss the relationship between spreaders and blackmailers, and the effect of blackmailers on the stiflers. Finally, we present numerical simulations that show the impact of political motivated rumours and how its control can be achieved.

Keywords: Rumor propagation, Political motivated rumour, Epidemiological models; stability analysis, Transition parameter
Assessment of Fertility Status of Soils under Different Cropping Patterns and Implications for Sustainable Agricultural Land Management
Authors: Olaniyi A.O , Gadah E
Published: January 2022

No Abstract
Assessment of Human Perception on the Impact of Climate Change and Population Growth on Water Scarcity in Katsina Urban Area, Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors: Hassan Mudassir , Maiwada Abdulmalik Sada
Published: January 2022

Water is part of the global resources facing a great threat from the current changing climate and population increase, its scarcity and dramatic decrease in Arid and semi-arid regions of the world implies a setback to socio-economic development. This study examines the impact of climate change and population increased on water scarcity in urban Katsina through human perception. A purposive sampling method was employed and a total of 245 questionnaires were administered to the household heads in the study area. Descriptive statistics of frequency distribution and percentage were used in the analysis of the collected data. The results revealed that majority (70.2%) of the respondents are aware of the changing climate and its impact on water resource. Changes in the volume of water resources over years in the study area was significantly decreased (well 67.6%, tap 72.5% and rainwater 47.3%) which resulted in scarcity as perceived by the respondents. Majority (53.8%) have no idea about the changes in volume of boreholes water. The most significant impacts of climate change on water resource in the study area were low rainfall duration and intensity, drying up of wells, lowering of water table and increase frequency and occurrence of drought. It is recommended that water resource supply infrastructures, integrated water resource management and creation of awareness on the impacts of climate change on water should be provided as part of the strategies to ameliorate the impact of climate change on water resources.

Keywords: Climate change; Perception; Population Growth; Urban Katsina; Water scarcity.
Effect of fresh soy milk and its compounds on apoptosis in human leukemic cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Ali Qalidah Mohamad , Kumolosasi Endang , Bakry Mohd Makmor
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To determine the effect of fresh soy milk and its compounds (coumestrol, daidzein and genistein) on apoptosis in human leukemic cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).

Methods: The apoptotic effect of fresh soy milk and its compounds on human leukemic cells (K562, Jurkat, U937) and PBMC was determined by flow cytometry. The PBMC from healthy donors were isolated by conducting density gradient centrifugation principle. Lymphoprep and cytotoxicity of the compounds was evaluated by 3-(4,5- ‘;1dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) MTT) assay.

Results: PBMC treatment of daidzein and genistein had a significantly higher half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value (p < 0.01) and (p < 0.0001), compared to the leukemia cells. In addition, soy milk had a significantly higher IC50 value (p < 0.05) in PBMC than the leukemia cells. Coumestrol induced a significantly increased apoptotic cells in K562, U937 cells (p < 0.01) and Jurkat cells (p < 0.05). However, daidzein only increased apoptosis (p < 0.05) in K562 and U937. Genistein reported a significantly increased apoptotic cell in K562, Jurkat (p < 0.01) and U937 cells (p < 0.001). Nonetheless, in PBMC, significant apoptosis by the compounds did not occur. However, only soy milk induced a significantly increased apoptosis in PBMC (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The findings indicate that coumestrol, daidzein, genistein and soy milk inhibits the viability of leukemia cells by apoptosis induction, but they are non-toxic toward normal cells. Therefore, the results suggest that the compound alone, and thus, soy milk might have a therapeutic effect in leukemia.
Effect of dexmedetomidine on AKT/ERK signaling pathway and EMT-related proteins in high glucose-induced apoptosis in human renal tubular epithelial cells
Authors: Wei Shuhua , Wu Jiang , Liu Yubo , He Xiang
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To study the effect of dexmedetomidine (Dex) on AKTERK signaling pathway and EMT- related proteins in high glucose-induced apoptosis in human kidney tubular epithelial cells.

Methods: HK-2 cells were assigned to control, high-glucose and Dex groups. Levels of ROS were determined using live cell station. Flow cytometry was used to measure cell apoptosis and cell cycle while Western blot was applied to assay levels of PI3K, Akt, p-Akt, ERK and p-ERK.

Results: The ROS concentrations were markedly reduced in Dex group, relative to high glucose group (p < 0.05). Apoptosis was reduced in Dex group, relative to high glucose group, while P13K protein levels were significantly lower in high glucose and Dex groups than their corresponding control levels. In the high glucose-treated cells, AKT protein expression was downregulated, relative to control group, and p-AKT expression was markedly reduced in Dex group (p < 0.05). Protein expressions of ERK and p-ERK in high glucose group were lower than control values, but were significantly accentuated in Dex group, relative to high glucose group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Dex mitigates high glucose-induced apoptosis of HK-2 cells, increases the proportion of cells in G1 phase, and reduces their EMT via a mechanism related to regulation of AKTERK signaling pathway-associated proteins. AKTERK signaling pathway-associated proteins provide insights into the development of drugs for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy.
Dexmedetomidine alleviates microglial activation of neuropathic pain by modulating miR-23a/PDE10A axis in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice
Authors: Wu Qian , Qiao Yan , Song Jiannan
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To elaborate the functional role of dexmedetomidine (DEX) in alleviating microglial activation of diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) and explore the involved signaling pathways.

Methods: The viability of BV-2 cells was measured using a commercial kit. Levels of interleukin 1β (IL- 1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured using commercial ELISA kit. The mRNA target was predicted and confirmed using TargetScan and luciferase assay. Protein expression levels were determined by western blotting. Diabetes was indiced in C57BL/6J mice using streptozotocin (STZ) and antidiabetic parameters evaluated in vivo.

Results: DEX suppressed HG-induced microglial activation in BV-2 cells. The levels of IL-1β and TNF-α increased in HG-treated cells, but this was counteracted following DEX treatment. Phosphorylation of p65 (p-p65) was upregulated in cells treated with HG, while DEX repressed this upregulation. MiR-23a was downregulated in BV-2 cells treated with HG, but upregulated by addition of DEX. MiR-23a mimics repressed the induction of IL-1β and TNF-α levels and expression of p-p65. Results from TargetScan and luciferase assays showed that the 3-untranslated region (UTR) of PDE10A was directly targeted by miR-23a. The in vivo studies showed that miR-23a agomir relieved neuropathic pain and reduced the expressions of PDE10A and p-p65 in STZ-induced diabetic mice, but these effects were aggravated by DEX.

Conclusion: The results show that upregulation of miR-23a, DEX alleviates microglial activation of neuropathic pain and reduces levels of inflammatory factors in STZ-induced diabetic C57BL/6J mice. The underlying mechanism was at least partially mediated by PDE10A.
Cigarette smoke extract induces migration of rat vascular smooth muscle cells through regulation of expressions of MOB2 and LATS1
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhou Wei , He Shenghu , Qian Yang , Wang Daxin
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To study the impact of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on the migratory capacity of rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and the likely mechanism of action involved.

Methods: Rat VSMCs were exposed to varying concentrations of CSE. The migration capacity of the cells was determined by Transwell migration assay and scratch test. Protein and RNA expression levels of LATS1 (large tumor suppressor kinase 1) and MOB2 (monopolar spindle-one-binder protein 2) were assayed using immunoblotting and quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), respectively.

Results: The results showed that within a certain concentration range, the migratory capacity of VSMCs increased as the concentration of CSE increased (p < 0.05). In contrast, the protein and RNA expressions of LATS1 and MOB2 were negatively correlated with CSE concentrations (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: CSE promotes abnormal migration of rat VSMCs by inhibiting the expressions of LATS1 and MOB2 associated with Hippo signaling pathway. Thus, smoking may induce vascular remodeling and cardiovascular events via this mechanism.
MiR-489 serves as a tumor inhibitor in pituitary prolactinoma targeting p21-activated kinase 3
Authors: Zhang Lie , Miao Shuchuan , Yang Zhongxin , Li Zongxi , Zheng Qun
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of microRNA-489 (miR-489) on pituitary prolactinoma and its mechanisms of action.

Methods: MMQ and GH3 cells were transfected with miR-489, cell viability assessed with cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), and clone spots was evaluated by colony formation assay. Transwell assay was applied to measure cell migration and invasion while TargetScan was employed to the presumed targets of miR-489, followed by luciferase reporter assays. was MiR-489 and p21-activated kinase 3 (PAK3) gene expression were determined by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR. Protein levels of PAK3 were measured using western blots.

Results: Transfection significantly increased miRNA-489 levels (p < 0.01). Cell viability, number of clone spots, as well as cell migration and invasion diminished in MMQ and GH3 cells following miR-489 transfection when compared to miR-NC mimic group (p < 0.01). The presumed binding site of miRNA- 489 was located in 3′-untranslated region (UTR) of PAK3, and miR-489 transfection repressed luciferase activity with the wild-type 3′-UTR (p < 0.05). In addition, miR-489 decreased PAK3 levels in MMQ and GH3 cells. Knockdown of PAK3 significantly suppressed cell viability, clone formation ability, as well as cell migration and invasion when compared to negative control (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: MiR-489 overexpression suppresses pituitary prolactinoma by targeting PAK3, thus providing a potential therapeutic strategy for the management of pituitary prolactinoma.
Effect of mono- and dual frequency power ultrasound assisted enzymolysis on the degree of hydrolysis and ACE inhibitory activity of Stevia protein hydrolysates
Authors: Gasmalla Mohammed Abdalbasit A. , Musa Abubakr , Awad Faisal N. , Admassu Habtamu , Ma Haile
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To study the effects of ultrasound pretreatment at different frequencies and working modes, including mono frequency ultrasound (MFU) and dual-frequency ultrasound (DFU), on the degree of hydrolysis (DH) and angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory effect of Stevia protein (SP).

Methods: Protein from Stevia leaves was extracted by water (50 g suspended in 1000 mL). The hydrolysis of stevia protein extract (SPE) was carried out using alcalase at 5 % enzyme substrate (E/S) ratio. A study was then carried out to investigate its microstructure and morphology using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results: The results showed that ultrasound pretreatment did not increase DH of SP significantly (p > 0.05). However, the highest ACE inhibitory activity of stevia protein hydrolysate was obtained at DFU level (20/50 KHz). Overall, ultrasonic frequency mode had a significant influence on ACE inhibitory activity.

Conclusion: The frequency selection of ultrasound pretreatment of SP is essential for the preparation of ACE inhibitory peptide.
Peony seed oil protects against obesity-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease via modulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Su Jianhui , Tao Jiejie , Xing Longhua , Ao Chengshuang , Ma Yuxuan , Wan Juncai , Tang Zhe
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of Peony seed oil (PO) on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and the underlying mechanism of action.

Methods: A mouse model of NAFLD was established using high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks. Serum levels of triacylglycerol (TG), total cholesterol (TC), glucose and free fatty acids (FFAs) were determined. Activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine amino transferase (ALT) were assayed in liver homogenates, while mRNA and protein expressions of GRP78, x-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) and phosphorylated inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (p-IRE1α) were assayed in liver tissue using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting, respectively. Expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were also determined by qRT-PCR.

Results: HFD diet led to significant increases in body weight as well as serum TG, TC, glucose and FFA levels. However, treatment with PO significantly reversed the effect of HFD on these parameters (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of TNF- α, IL-6 and IL-1β were significantly higher in HFD control group than in normal control group, but were significantly reduced after PO treatment (p < 0.05). The protein expression levels of GRP78, XBP-1 and p-IRE1α significantly increased in the liver of NAFLD group, when compared with normal control rats, but were significantly downregulated by treatment with PO (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: PO attenuates HFD-induced NAFLD via inactivation of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) pathway. Thus, PO has potentials for the treatment of NAFLD but further studies are required to ascertain this.
Aqueous Allium sativum (garlic) extract ameliorates cadmium chloride-induced alterations in blood formation and spermatogenesis in albino rats
Authors: Mbegbu Edmund Chidiebere , Odo Rita Ifeoma , Ozioko Paul Tobechukwu , Awachie Mark Ebubechukwu , Nwobi Lotanna Gilbert , Obidike Ikechukwu Reginald
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the ameliorative effect of aqueous garlic extract (AGEx) on cadmium chloride (CdCl2-induced) alterations in the blood and testicles of rats.

Methods: A total of 24 male rats (160 - 200 g), randomly assigned into 4 groups (A - D; n = 6), were used to investigate the claimed protective effect of AGEx on blood and spermatogenic tissues following CdCl2-intoxication in albino rats. The rats in Group A served as controls and were given 5mg/mL of deionized water. Group B rats were given 300 mg/kg of AGEx. Group C rats were given 2 mg/kg of CdCl2. Rats in Group D first received 2 mg/kg of CdCl2, and 300 mg/kg of AGEx 2 h later. All treatments were administered every 48 h for a period of six weeks.

Results: CdCl2 administration to group C rats reduced haematocrit value (PCV), concentration of haemoglobin (Hb), red cell count (RBC), total leucocytes count (tWBC), eosinophil, neutrophil, testicular weight and sperm reserve (p < 0.05), but elevated lymphocytes count compared with control (p < 0.05). AGEx 300 mg/kg in group D rats significantly reversed (p < 0.05) the altered parameters compared with control.

Conclusion: The results demonstrate that administration of aqueous Allium sativum (garlic) extract to male rats enhances spermatogenesis, and ameliorates testicular and haematological alterations induced by cadmium poisoning. Therefore, the spermatogenic principle in AGEx is a potential candidate for the clinical management of male infertility.
Knockdown of pancreatic adenocarcinoma upregulated factor (PAUF) suppresses proliferation, migration, invasion, and cancer stem cell properties in lung cancer cells
Authors: Dong Liangchao , Li Weiwei , Zhang Xiaoli
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the role of pancreatic adenocarcinoma up-regulated factor (PAUF) in lung cancer.

Method: Proliferation of lung cancer cell lines (A549 and H1299) was determined using MTS and Edu staining assays. Wound healing and transwell assays were performed to evaluate cell migration and invasion abilities. Lung cancer stem cell (CSC) marker expressions, including CD133, CD44, ALDH1, SOX2, and Oct4, were determined by western blot assay.

Results: Knockdown of PAUF significantly inhibited A459 and H1299 cell proliferation (p < 0.01). The wound healing and transwell assay results indicated that depletion of PAUF markedly suppressed H1299 and A549 cell migration and invasion, compared with the control cells (p < 0.01). Knockdown of PAUF reduced distinct CSC marker expression, suggesting inhibition of CSC phenotypes, and reduced phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (FAK), phosphorylated Src, and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), but not total FAK, Src, and ERK. These results suggested that knockdown of PAUF deactivated the FAK/Src/ERK signal pathway.

Conclusion: Knockdown of PAUF inhibits lung cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and CSC properties via deactivation of FAK/Src/ERK signal pathway. These results may provide a novel strategy for the development of lung cancer therapeutics.
Silencing CDCA8 inhibits the proliferation and invasion of gastric cancer cells and induces apoptosis by blocking the Akt pathway
Authors: Fan Fuxiang , Du Jingbo , Lou Yanbo
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of cell division cycle associated 8 (CDCA8) on malignant progression of gastric cancer (GC) cells.

Methods: Short hairpin RNAs (shRNA) were transfected into two gastric cell lines to knock down expression of CDCA8. Transfection efficiency was analyzed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot. Then, Cell Counting Kit 8 and colony formation and Transwell assays were utilized to explore the effect of CDCA8 knockdown on the proliferation, invasion, and migration of GC cells. Flow cytometry was conducted to analyze the effect of CDCA8 knockdown on cell cycle progression and apoptosis. The relationship between CDCA8, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and Akt pathway activity was determined by western blot analysis.

Results: Proliferation, invasion, and migration of GC cells were significantly inhibited by CDCA8 knockdown. Knockdown of CDCA8 induced cell cycle arrest in G1 phase and apoptosis, and inhibited EMT and Akt pathway activity.

Conclusion: Knockdown of CDCA8 inhibits GC growth and metastasis in vitro by reducing Akt pathway activity. Thus, this molecule presents a potential strategy for the management of GC.
MiR-598-3p functions as a tumor suppressor in pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Qiang Zhang , Feng Jinhua , Wang Chunlian , Zheng Meizhu , Wen Zhuoyu
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the role of miR-598-3p in pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T- ALL).

Methods: The expression of miR-598-3p in mononuclear cells isolated from the peripheral blood samples of children with or without T-ALL was assessed using real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell viability or proliferation of T-ALL cell lines was evaluated using cell counting kit-8 assay or bromodeoxyuridine staining, respectively. The target gene of miR-598-3p was predicted and validated using luciferase reporter assay, while the underlying mechanism involved in miR-598-3p-mediated T-ALL was determined by western blot analysis.

Results: MiR-598-3p was reduced in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of T-ALL patients. Ectopic miR-598-3p expression decreased T-ALL cell viability and suppressed proliferation, while miR-598-3p interference showed reversed effects. Additionally, the target gene of miR-598-3p, Dishevelled, EGL-10, and Pleckstrin domain-containing mTOR-interacting protein (DEPTOR), was down-regulated by miR- 598-3p in T-ALL. MiR-598-3p decreased phospho (p)-AKT protein expression, while AKT inhibition counteracted the suppressive effects of miR-598-3p silencing on T-ALL cell viability and proliferation.

Conclusion: MiR-598-3p/DEPTOR is involved in the proliferation of T-ALL through AKT pathway, thus providing a potential novel application in pediatric T-ALL.
Mitigating the Spread of Measles under Constrained Health Care Resources in Tanzania using Social Contact Network Models
Authors: Rwezaura Herieth , McGarraghy Seán
Published: January 2022

Tanzania revaccinates individuals during measles outbreaks, despite having scant healthcare resources. We construct epidemiological models of measles spread by employing a hybrid of existing social contact networks models to develop SEIR simulation model. Using demographic and measles surveillance data from three rural villages in Tanzania, we simulate the spread of measles and examine which vaccination strategies can effectively control outbreaks. Results strongly indicate the spread of measles largely depends on contact rates among infected individuals within a population. Findings indicate a need for targeted vaccination for children of 6 months to 15 years of age, but equally for unvaccinated older age groups who were born before 1957 or missed the second dose. This work contributes theoretically and methodologically to existing applications of social contact network models for airborne infectious diseases in areas with health system constraints. It sets out implications for the design of effective vaccination programs for control of measles in Tanzania and in other developing countries.

Keywords: Vaccination strategies, Control strategies, Social contact network models, Airborne infectious diseases, Measles.
Optical and Chemical Properties of Fragaria ananassa and Galena: Potential Photosensitizers in a Natural Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Akinsola Ibukun S , Alabi Aderemi B , Nicola Coppede
Published: January 2022

Dye is one of the major components for high power conversion efficiency in a dye-sensitized solar cell. There are challenges natural dyes encounter, especially with quick degradation of the dye molecules. This work considered mineral dye in comparison with plant dye to address the challenge of degradation of natural plant dyes. The optical properties and functional groups of the two natural dyes were studied in this work. The absorption spectra, the optical band gaps and the absorption coefficients of the dyes were reported and found to be suitable for use as photosensitizers in a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC), as they absorb in the visible region of the electromagnetic radiation. The functional groups were studied by carrying out Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and the amine, carbonyl and hydroxyl groups present in both dyes confirmed promising material that can absorb solar radiation in the visible region (around 380–800 nm) and which finds application in fabricating DSSC. The organic compositions in the mineral dye are studied via the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and the results justify the observation from the FTIR spectroscopy. The properties observed, via the characterizations techniques used, confirm materials suitable for use as photosensitizers in fabricating DSSC.

Keywords: Plant dye, Mineral dye, Photosensitizer, Visible region, DSSC.
Application of Faulkenberry (2018) Bayes Factor to a Balanced Two Way Analysis of Variance with Random Effects
Authors: Egburonu Onyeike D , Abidoye Omotayo A
Published: January 2022

The Analysis of Variance technique estimates variance components by comparing their mean squares to their expected values. Nevertheless, this method could give variance component estimates that are found outside the parameter space, i.e. negative estimates. In a bid to overcome this deficiency, alternate approaches are essential, and likelihood-based approaches have become common over time. Bayesian techniques have also been proposed and Bayes factors developed for examining various models. We applied the Bayes factor proposed by Faulkenberry (2018) to a Balanced Two Way ANOVA under three (3) cases, namely Case 1: the levels of the two factors are fixed; Case 2: the levels of the two factors are random; and Case 3: the levels of one factor are considered as fixed, while the levels of the other factor are considered as random. We realized that when the levels of the two factors are fixed, the Bayesian conclusion about the variability in the effects is in line with that of a frequentist. But when the same data set was considered to be wholly or partly as sample observations drawn randomly from a given population of interest, the Bayesian conclusion differed slightly from that of the frequentist.

Keywords: Bayes Factor; Bayesian; Frequentist, Fixed; Random.
Improved Modified Ratio Estimation of Population Mean Using Information on Size of the Sample
Authors: Suleiman Sikiru A , Adewara Amos A
Published: January 2022

In sample surveys, auxiliary information is used for estimation to improve the eﬃciency of estimators. Increased precision can be obtained when the variable under study is highly correlated with auxiliary information. In this study, the sample size has been used as information for improved estimation of population mean of the main variable under study. A new modified generalized ratio type estimator of population mean has been proposed and the efficiency was examined using Murthy (1967) and Mukhopadhyay (2009) dataset. The large sample properties, the bias and the mean squared error of the newly proposed modified ratio estimator were obtained up to first order of approximation. The optimum value of the characterizing scalar which minimizes the mean squared error was obtained and the minimum value of the mean squared error of the proposed modified ratio estimator for this optimum value was also obtained. A theoretical comparison of the proposed modified ratio estimators was made with the other existing related estimators of population mean using auxiliary information. The conditions under which the proposed modified ratio estimators perform better than the other existing estimators of population mean are given. A numerical study was also carried out to see the performances of the proposed modified ratio estimators and some existing related ratio estimators of population mean and verify the conditions under which the proposed modified ratio estimators are better than some other existing related ratio estimators considered. It was shown that the proposed modified ratio estimators perform better than some existing related ratio estimators as they are having lower mean squared errors.

Keywords: Ratio Estimator, Sample size, Bias, Mean Squared Error, Efficiency
Preparation, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Activities of Mixed Ibuprofen-Salicylic Acid Metal-Drug Complexes
Authors: Bamigboye Mercy O. , Ejidike Ikechukwu P. , Awolope Racheal O. , Obaleye Joshua A. , Ejimofor Favour K.
Published: January 2022

Most variants of bacteria are resistant to traditional antibiotics which are organic. To overcome the growing infections, bacteria resistant infections, and multiple drug resistance (MDR) rates, transition metals with biological importance were coordinated to organic ligands (Ibuprofen and Salicylic acid) with anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, metal complexes of mixed Ibuprofen and Salicylic acid were prepared using a standard method to give of the type [M(Ibu)(Sal)X] (where M = Fe2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, and X = Cl2, Ibu = Ibuprofen, Sal = Salicylic acid). The complexes were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, conductivity measurements, melting points, FT-IR, and X-ray diffraction. The metal ions are coordinated to the ligands via the carboxylato oxygen donor atoms of both ligands. From the physicochemical data, the complexes are non-electrolytes. The XRD study suggested that the metal complexes possess a well-defined crystalline structure with average crystallite sizes of < 62 nm. Evaluations of the antimicrobial activities of the ligands and their complexes against gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus, B. subtilis,  S. faecalis) and gram-negative bacteria (K. pneumonia, E. coli, and  P. aeroginosa) via standard method were utilized to determine the zones of inhibition. The complexes exhibited a higher zone of inhibition, indicating higher antimicrobial activities when compared to the parent ligand. The results revealed that the metal-drug complexes are promising chemotherapeutic agents with wide spectrum of activities.

Keywords:  Metal-drug complexes; Ibuprofen; Spectra studies; Salicylic acid; Antimicrobial activity
Rural Electrification using Iliceto Shield Wire Scheme in Developing Countries: Tanzania Case Study
Authors: Munisi Heavenlight M , Kihwele Santos
Published: January 2022

Rural electrification rate in Tanzania is still very low despite the efforts made by the Rural Energy Agency (REA) in Tanzania. Rural electrification using medium voltage (MV) method has two major obstacles. First obstacle is high cost associated with the cost of extending the grid electricity to rural areas. Second obstacle is remoteness of the villages, which leads to high power loss during transmission. In lieu of economic extension of rural electrification areas, this paper proposes a low cost solution of Iliceto Shield Wire Scheme (ISWS). This technique involves insulating shield wires (SW) from high voltage (132-400 kV) transmission line and energizing (11-33 kV) them from nearby substation at one line and use ground as MV phase conductor. The paper undertakes literature review of ISWS technology as installed in other developing countries. After that, a case study is selected in Mpaji village in Tanga region Tanzania. Analysis was made on voltage drop, power flow and cost for rural electrification using ISWS technology. Using ISWS for Mpaji village resulted in 10.89% voltage drop with total investment cost of about 49.4% compared to MV conventional method.

Keywords: Iliceto Shield Wire Scheme (ISWS), Medium Voltage, Rural Electrification