bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant Properties and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Cucumeropsis Edulis (Seeds)
Authors: BADU MERCY , Agbemade Blessed , Boateng Ransford , Amponsah Isaac , Boamah Vivian 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
This study sought to explore the medicinal properties of extracts obtained from C. edulis seeds. The seeds were obtained from farms in the Upper East Region of Ghana, dried and milled into coarse powder. Petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol were used to extract the bioactive compounds present in the seeds by the cold maceration method. Antioxidant properties of the extracts were evaluated using the Phosphomolybdenum and DPPH free radical scavenging assays. The Folin-Ciocalteu assay was used to estimate the total phenol content and carrageenan-induced paw oedema model in chicks employed for the anti-inflammatory effects. The results showed that methanol extract had the highest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities while the petroleum ether extract showed the least activity. The anti-inflammatory activity of the methanol extract (31.3% oedema inhibition at 300 mg/kg body weight) was however lower than diclofenac (54.04% oedema inhibition at 100 mg/kg body weight), the reference drug. Compounds such as tannins, alkaloids, and carotenoids detected during phytochemical screening may be responsible for the activities observed.
Is the Association Between Cognitive Decline and Mortality Modified by High Blood Pressure Among the Oldest Old?
Authors: Duan Jun , Sam Napoleon Bellua , Liang Gui-Ling , Wang Shi-Jia , Chen Han-Jie , Liu Yan 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
BackgroundFew studies have systematically explored the association between cognitive decline and mortality among the oldest old (above 80 years old) and also have limited evidence of the potential effect modifiers between them. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association between cognitive decline, stratified by detailed levels, and mortality as well as the potential effect modifiers between them.MethodsThis study included 14,891 oldest old (mean age: 90.3±7.5 years) and 10,904 oldest old deaths with 34,486 person-years were observed. Cognitive decline was continuous and stratified into ten categories. Potential effect modifiers were identified as age, sex, blood pressure (BP) and high BP related diseases, including hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate the relationship between them after adjusting for demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, lifestyle factors, leisure activities and health conditions.ResultsIn the ten categories, compared to those with maintained high normal cognitive function, participants who have declined to severe cognitive impairment from a high normal cognitive function, low normal cognitive function and mild cognitive impairment have 55%, 56% and 63% mortality risks respectively. Cognitive function declined to mild cognitive impairment from a high normal cognitive function and low normal cognitive function with mortality risks 25% and 17% respectively. The multivariable-adjusted model indicated that the oldest old with decreasing one more point in MMSE score per year, had around 4% higher risk of mortality. There was a significant association of interaction of cognitive decline-mortality and sex (P=0.013) as well as hypertension (P=0.004) but with no significant association among age (P=0.277), high BP (P=0.082), and CVD mortality (P=0.058).ConclusionsOur findings suggest that cognitive decline is associated with an elevated risk of all-cause mortality among the oldest old, even at a low level of cognitive decline. Low BP, non-hypertension and non-CVD mortality may be potentially beneficial in the cognitive decline-mortality association.
Teratogenic Potential of Solenstemma Argel Extract in Wistar Albino Rats
Authors: Mustafa Nazik M.E. , Osman Nafisa A. , Satti Shahenaz , A.Gameel Ahmed , El-hadiyah Tarig M. 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: The majority of people in Africa receive their basic healthcare through herbal treatments. Herbal medicine may negatively impact fetal development irreparably. Methods: This study examined teratogenic potential of Solenstemma argel extract in pregnant rats. pregnant rats were treated with Solenstemma argel from 7th to 16th day of gestation. Dosage used was 500g/kg, intraperitoneal.Results: Solenstemma argel extract treated group showed fetal abnormalities appeared as body clots, limbs abnormalities and Resorption of fetuses that appears in 25% of the fetuses (P-value = 0.01) which is significantly differ from control group. furthermore, Histopathological findings of liver sections from fetuses of Solenstemma argel - treated mothers showed loose liver texture and hepatocyte hemorrhage.Conclusions: In this study we explore the teratogenic potential of S. argel extract during the organogenesis period in pregnant rats.
SARS-CoV-2 sero-prevalence in the workforces of three large workplaces in South Wales: a sero-epidemiological study
Authors: Puchades Alice , Daniel Rhian , Geen John , Peden Jo , Lewis Heather , Nnoaham Kelechi 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
BackgroundSero-prevalence studies quantify the proportion of a population that has antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, and can be used to identify the extent of the COVID-19 pandemic at a population level. The aim of the study was to assess the sero-prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the workforce at three workplaces. Methods993 participants were recruited from three workplaces in South Wales: a food factory, a non-food factory and a call centre. Participants completed a questionnaire and received lateral flow point-of-care SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests. The data were analysed using multivariable logistic regression, both using complete records only and following multiple imputation. ResultsThe sero-prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies ranged from 4% (n=17/402) in the non-food factory to 10% (n=28/281) in the food factory (OR 2.93; 95% CI 1.26 to 6.81). After taking account of confounding factors evidence of a difference remained (cOR comparing food factory to call centre (2.93; 95% CI 1.26 to 6.81) and non-food factory (3.99; 95% CI 1.97 to 8.08) respectively). The SARS-CoV-2 antibody prevalence also varied between roles within workplaces. People working in office based roles had a 2.23 times greater conditional odds (95% CI 1.02 to 4.87) of being positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies than those working on the factory floor.ConclusionThe sero-prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies varied by workplace and work role. Whilst it is not possible to state whether these differences are due to COVID-19 transmission within the workplaces, it highlights the importance of considering COVID-19 transmission in a range of workplaces and work roles.
Empirical Analysis of BRICS Countries Pathway Toward Low-Carbon Environment
Authors: Cai Li , Sampene Agyemang Kwasi , Agyeman Fredrick Oteng , Ayisi Lincoln Abraham , Brenya Robert 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: The rising sea level, the lasting variations on the surface ocean current, vulnerable ecosystems, hydrological cycle, extreme weather conditions, and the like are subjects emanating from the rising emission in the atmosphere. Global climate change has emerged as humanity's greatest challenge, affecting both the earth's natural security and the long-term growth of human society. Yet, the reckless pursuit of economic gains put social and ecological environmental safety at a severe demerit. This practice has brought grave consequences to humanity in environmental pollution, climate change, health hazards depletion, etc. Protecting the environment and fostering long-term growth while reducing carbon emissions has become a global concern. The BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are participating in the fight against climate change through LCE promotion. In this study, we use content analysis to discusses some of the policies, plans, programs outlined by the various governments in the BRICS that can help them reach to help them accomplish LCE. Results: The study discussion indicates that Brazil has adopted the (National Energy Plans 2030 and 2050), Russia (Energy strategy 2035 for Russia), India actions and plans also include (Apex Committee for Implementation of Paris Agreement of India, China (Pollution Control, Energy Conservation, and Carbon Reduction and South Africa (Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan). The result from the study also indicates that currently Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa are rated "Insufficient," "Critically Insufficient," "Compactible" "incompatible," and "Highly Insufficient" respectively in their commitment to Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) to the Paris Agreement. Conclusion: The paper recommends that BRICS countries reach LCE through; expansion in low-carbon investments and financing, focus on taxation extends beyond energy, investment in low-carbon cities, adapting to a circular economy and low-carbon technology, a revisitation of the electricity markets, and the promotion of climate-friendly international trade among the BRICS countries.
Construction of a Risk Score Prognosis Model for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on Pyroptosis Related Genes
Authors: Li Xin-yu , Su Li-xin , Wen Ming-zhe , You Jian-xiong , Yang xi-tao 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: In this study, a prognostic model based on pyroptosis-related genes was established to predict overall survival (OS) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Methods: The gene expression data and clinical information of HCC patients were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Using bioinformatics analysis, this predictive signature was constructed and validated. The performance of predictive signature was assessed by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the ROC curve (AUC). Results: A total of 3 pyroptosis-related genes (BAK1, GSDME, and NOD2) were used to construct a survival prognostic model, and experimental validation performed using an experimental cohort. The prognosis model exhibited good performance based on the AUC (AUC: 0.826 at 1 years, 0.796 at 3 years, 0.867 at 5 years). The calibration plots showed excellent calibration.Conclusion: In this study, a novel prognostic model based on three pyroptosis-related genes is constructed and used to predict the prognosis of HCC patients. The model can accurately and conveniently predict the 1- 3-and 5-year OS of HCC patients.
MiR-323a-3p acts as a tumor suppressor by suppressing FMR1 and predicts better esophageal squamous cell carcinoma outcome
Authors: Men Yu , Zhai Yirui , Wu Lihong , Liu Lipin , Zhang Wenjue , Jiang Wei , Bi Nan , Song Yongmei , Hui Zhouguang , Wang Luhua 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has unfavorable outcomes with the highest incidence seen in China. Accordingly, exploring effective molecular biomarkers is of great value. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression and modulate numerous biological processes in tumors. Our study aimed to identify prognostic miRNAs and investigate their role in ESCC.Methods: Prognosis-related plasma miRNAs were detected by miRNA microarray and qRT-PCR. Functional assays and molecular mechanism studies were used to investigate the role of miRNA in ESCC. Results: Over-expression of miR-323a-3p was associated with a favorable prognosis. MiR-323a-3p negatively regulated proliferation, migration, and invasion. Through biological predictions, the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) was found to be a potential target of miR-323a-3p. Further investigation revealed that miR-323a-3p directly targeted and suppressed FMR1. MiR-323a-3p and FMR1 mRNA, as well as miR-323a-3p and the FMR1-encoded protein FMRP, showed negative correlations. Luciferase activity of FMR1-3′-UTR, but not mutant counterparts, was decreased by mimic compared with that of the control. The compromised cell proliferation, migration, and invasion induced by transfection with miR-323a-3p mimic were rescued by transfection with a FMR1 expression plasmid. Tumors induced by miR-323a-3p overexpressed ESCC cells grew significantly slower in vivo and resulted in smaller tumor masses. Metastatic lung colonization was also inhibited by miR-323a-3p overexpression.Conclusions: MiR-323a-3p was significantly associated with survival and acted as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting proliferation, migration, and invasion via the regulation of FMR1. MiR-323a-3p is a promising biomarker and may be a potential therapeutic target.
Identification of LINC01503 as Biomarker Regulated by CTBP1 with Prognostic and Diagnostic Role in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Wang Yanchun , Wei Zheng , Zhang Junping , Wang Xuemei , Li Xiaohua 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a disease with high morbidity and mortality worldwide, which is seriously harmful to female health. LncRNA has an important relationship with the occurrence and development of tumors. Hence, the investigation of the underlying mechanism between LncRNA and EOC is of great importance.Results: In this study, we found that LINC01503 was highly expressed in EOC with a poor prognosis based on microarray datasets GSE119056 and GSE135886 obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and this result was verified by RT-qPCR. The database lncBase Predicted v.2 and starBase v2.0 were used to predict the targeted relationship of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA, then the ceRNA network was established by Cytoscape software. Following, the expression and overall survival (OS) analysis of key lncRNAs were analyzed by GEPIA and Kaplan-Meier plotter database. Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis was performed by DAVID database and enriched two cancer related biological processes (BP) that response to endoplasmic reticulum stress and IRE1-mediated unfolded protein. Moreover, we verified that LINC01503 was an oncogene regulated by C-terminal binding protein 1 (CTBP1) to promote cell proliferation, migration and inhibited cell apoptosis in ovarian cancer. Conclusion: In conclusion, these results identified LINC01503 as a potential gene for EOC diagnosis and prognosis.
Racial/Ethnic Differences Among Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Breast Cancer Tumors
Authors: Bansil Surbhi , Silva Anthony , Taniguchi Alana , Wiedmer Christina , Fernandez Mayumi , Pagano Ian , Vierkoetter Koah , Killeen Jeffrey , Fukui Jami 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
PurposeTumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have emerged as a predictor of cancer treatment response and patient outcomes, including for breast cancer. Current studies investigating racial/ethnic differences in TILs and immune profiles in breast cancer offer varying results. Our study hopes to address the paucity of data in breast cancer tumor microenvironment from different racial/ethnic groups not well represented in the literature.MethodsWe reviewed 183 cases of women diagnosed with early stage breast cancer who received neoadjuvant treatment at two large health systems in Hawaii between 2008 and 2020. We evaluated clinical and demographic information including: age at diagnosis, race/ethnicity, tumor stage, tumor subtype according to ER, PR, and HER2 receptor status and compared them with obtaining a pathologic complete response (pCR) and amount of stromal TILs (sTILs).ResultsWe found a significantly greater amount of sTILs in Asians (37.7%, p=0.01) and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (NHPI) (37.2%, p=0.02) patients compared to White patients on multivariate analysis. We found no significant differences in pCR among the different racial/ethnic groups.ConclusionsRacial/ethnic differences in the amount of sTILs in breast cancer tumors suggest that higher sTIL percentages alone do not predict for pCR. Increases in sTILs in Asian and NHPI patients suggest differences in immune cell profiles in the breast tumor microenvironment. This may in part contribute to known outcome disparities in these populations.
Community Water Supply Project in Ikuru Town, Andoni, Rivers State: Performance and Challenges
Authors: Nwajuaku Ijeoma Immaculata , Ezetoha Njideka Ophelia , Ezeokoye N.G. 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The paper aims at evaluating the performances and challenges of a community water supply project in Ikulu town. At the outset of 2021, as the decade of action to deliver the sustainable development goals (SDG) by 2030 gets underway, Ikuru Town is not on track to achieve Goals 6 (clean water and sanitation). Assessment of the Ikuru water supply project involved two ways. visitation to the treatment plant to observe the condition of the facility and use of the unstructured interview. Water samples were collected after treatment from the user point. Sampling was repeated three times on three different days. Physicochemical and microbial qualities of water samples were analyzed, using the standard for examination of water and wastewater by APHA. Results showed that total coliform bacteria were present in the water sample. Iron concentration was above the WHO limit. The concentration of manganese was above the recommended level and Iron bacteria were also present after treatment. In conclusion, the water is not potable and palatable due to its objectionable taste and orange brown colour. Therefore, there is needs for drastic treatment of Ikulu community water project at the point source using shock chlorination as a recommended method to improve its performance level. Moreover, supportive intervention is required from governmental institutions to overcome the challenges of this water project for sustainability.
ɤ-TiAl alloy: Tensile creep deformation behaviour and creep life at 832 °C
Authors: Saha Mainak 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Creep deformation in single phase ɤ-TiAl alloy manufactured using different processing techniques has been an extensively studied topic since the late 1970s. The present work revisits the original work on understanding the tensile creep deformation behaviour of wrought single-phase ɤ-TiAl alloy by Hayes and Martin [1] and is aimed to develop an understanding of steady state creep. Besides, it is also aimed to investigate the creep life for stress levels of 69.4 and 103.4 MPa at 832 ⁰C using Monkman-Grant [2] approach.
What Drives Energy Efficiency in Africa? Insights from 12 Selected Countries Using Incremental Decomposition Analysis
Authors: Alemzero David , Huaping Sun 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
This paper examines why Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) in particular, has some of the worse energy efficiency indicators in the world. It examines the relationship between total primary energy supply (TPES), final energy consumption, and transmission and distribution (T&D) losses on the continent. We apply the Sun-Shaley incremental decomposition method of logarithmic mean divisia index (LMDI to twelve (12) African countries using data from 2000 to 2016 to decompose TPES into the effects of changes in final energy consumption (FEC), population change (POP), carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, and economic activity measured by gross domestic product (GDP), and their impact on energy efficiency. The method provides a precise decomposition analysis and incremental results that can be added to study the long-run impacts without any information missing in between. The findings show that the study countries have worsening energy efficiency indicators with energy intensity (EI) as high as 55%, coupled with an inefficient transformation of primary energy supply to final consumption, culminating in significant systems losses. It was further discovered that countries that have more significant proportions of renewables sources in their energy mix have lower transmission and distribution losses. This study serves as a guide to the policy discourse regarding the energy efficiency situation in Africa.
Radiological Risks Assessment Due to Natural Radioactivity in
Mediterranean Sea Fishes
Authors: Caridi F. , Belmusto G. 
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives:
A comprehensive study was carried out for the determination
of natural radioactivity in Mediterranean sea fishes and the evaluation of radiological
health risks due to their ingestion. All analyzed samples came from the Calabria region, southern
Italy, and, in particular, from the district of Reggio Calabria.

Method:
A total of seventy representative samples, five for each investigated species (Sardina
Pilchardus, Mugil Cephalus, Scomber Scombrus, Sparus Aurata, Dicentrarchus Labrax, Tonnus
Thynnus, Thunnus Alalunga, Xiphaias Gladius, Pagellus Erythrinnus, Engraulis Encrasicholus,
Belone Belone, Solea Solea, Merluccius Merluccius, Mullus Surmuletus) were analyzed
through HPGe gamma spectrometry. The evaluation of dose levels and lifetime cancer
risks for adult members of the population due to the fishes ingestion was also performed.

Results:
The specific activity of 40K was investigated and its mean value was found to be: (157
± 17) for Sardina Pilchardus, (138 ± 14) for Mugil Cephalus, (118 ± 13) for Scomber
Scombrus, (128 ± 14) for Sparus Aurata, (146 ± 17) for Dicentrarchus Labrax, (93 ± 11) for
Tonnus Thynnus, (137 ± 15) for Thunnus Alalunga, (98 ± 10) for Xiphaias Gladius, (105 ± 12)
for Pagellus Erythrinnus, (132 ± 14) for Engraulis Encrasicholus, (113 ± 12) for Belone Belone,
(34 ± 5) for Solea Solea, (76 ± 9) for Merluccius Merluccius and (96 ± 11) for Mullus
Surmuletus, respectively.

Conclusions:
The committed effective dose and the lifetime cancer risks for adult members of
the population due to the consumption of the investigated samples are lower than the average
world value, the maximum acceptable level and the allowed range, respectively. It can then be
concluded that the Mediterranean sea fishes consumed in the study area pose no significant
health risks to the population from a radiological point of view.
Cross-sectional Study on Effects of Ondansetron and Meperidine in the Prevention of Postoperative Shivering after Spinal Anesthesia
Authors: Vahabi Sepideh , Beiranvand Siavash , Karimi Arash , Jafari-Takab Bagher 
Published: September 2021

Purpose:
Post-anesthesia shivering is one of the most common problems after surgery and may lead to multiple complications such as hypoxemia, lactate acidosis and catecholamine release. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of intravenous meperidine and ondansetron on postoperative shivering in patients having an elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia.

Design:
Cross-sectional study

Methods:
In this cross-sectional study, 105 patients with the age of 18-45 years and ASA class I-II undergoing elective cesarean section were randomly assigned into three groups. Group O was administered 8mg ondansetron, group M patients were given 0.4mg/kg meperidine and group P was placebo that was administered with 2cc of saline intravenously after the delivery. The incidence and intensity of shivering and postoperative nausea was monitored and recorded by the trained nurse. The data obtained was analyzed using SPSS v18.

Results:
All three groups (n=35) had no significant difference in terms of age, weight and time of spinal anesthesia. Postoperative shivering was reported in 4 patients (11.4%) in group A and 3 patients (8.6%) in group B and in 14 patients (40%) in group C. The incidence of postoperative shivering was significantly less in groups A and B as compared to the placebo, p=0.03. The intensity of shivering was greater in group C as compared to groups A and B, p=0.01. The incidence and intensity of postoperative nausea was significantly less in group A, p=0.03, p<0.001, respectively, while no difference was reported in groups B and C, p<0.05.

Conclusion:
8mg ondansetron and 0.4 mg/kg of meperidine are equally effective in managing postoperative shivering; however, ondansetron has an additional effect of reducing the incidence of postoperative nausea among patients undergoing caesarean section with spinal anesthesia.