bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Analysis of Matrix Metalloproteinases by Zymography in Patients With Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: VEČURKOVSKÁ I , STUPÁK M , KAŤUCHOVÁ J , ROŠKOVIČOVÁ V , MAŠLANKOVÁ J
Published: January 2024

Zymography is an electrophoretic method in which proteins are separated in a polyacrylamide gel in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS-PAGE). This method is used for the detection of enzymatic activity and molecular characterization of proteins. In contrast to the standard SDS-PAGE method, a substrate is incorporated into the gel during zymography, which is subsequently cleaved by target proteases. Many studies have focused on the development and progression of inflammatory diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract, emphasizing the role of the largest group of proteases, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The most used classification of this group of enzymes (by researchers in MMP biology) is based in part on the historical evaluation of the substrate specificity of MMPs and in part on the cellular localization of MMPs. MMPs are thus classified into the groups of collagenases, gelatinases, stromelysins, matrilysins, membrane-type MMPs (MT-MMPs), and others. An important group of MMPs are gelatinases which are involved in the breakdown of collagen type IV and gelatin of extracellular matrix and participate in the regulation of various physiological or pathological processes such as morphogenesis, angiogenesis, tissue repair, cirrhosis, arthritis, and metastasis. The present study's objective was to determine the amount of active MMP-9 and MMP-2 forms in tissue samples using zymography. The patient group was according to histology findings divided into the benign tumor (control) group (8 patients), and the malignant tumor group (24 patients). The respondents in the malignant tumor group were further divided according to the standard TNM classification. The results of this study confirmed that MMP-2, unlike MMP-9, can be used as a prognostic biomarker of CRC, because only the expression of active MMP-2 confirmed statistically significant differences between individual stages of CRC. Moreover, MMP-2 seems to play a more important role in higher stages of CRC. Substantial disparities in the determination of active MMPs between the observed groups support the assumption for the integration of zymography into clinical diagnostics of CRC together with molecular and other studies.
The Effect of Budesonide Delivered by High-Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation on Acute Inflammatory Response in Severe Lung Injury in Adult Rabbits
Authors: NEMCOVA N , KOSUTOVA P , KOLOMAZNIK M , MATEFFY S , TURIANIKOVA Z , CALKOVSKA A , MIKOLKA P
Published: January 2024

The inflammation present in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and thereby associated injury to the alveolar-capillary membrane and pulmonary surfactant can potentiate respiratory failure. Even considering the high mortality rate of severe ARDS, glucocorticoids appear to be a reasonable treatment option along with an appropriate route of delivery to the distal lung. This study aimed to investigate the effect of budesonide therapy delivered intratracheally by high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) on lung function and inflammation in severe ARDS. Adult New Zealand rabbits with respiratory failure (P/F<13.3 kPa) induced by intratracheal instillation of hydrochloric acid (HCl, 3 ml/kg, pH 1.5) followed by high tidal ventilation (VT 20 ml/kg) to mimic ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) were treated with intratracheal bolus of budesonide (0.25 mg/kg, Pulmicort) delivered by HFOV (frequency 8 Hz, MAP 1 kPa, ΔP 0.9 kPa). Saline instead of HCl without VILI with HFOV delivered air bolus instead of therapy served as healthy control. All animals were subjected to lung-protective ventilation for 4 h, and respiratory parameters were monitored regularly. Postmortem, lung injury, wet-to-dry weight ratio, leukocyte shifts, and levels of cytokines in plasma and lung were evaluated. Budesonide therapy improved the lung function (P/F ratio, oxygenation index, and compliance), decreased the cytokine levels, reduced lung edema and neutrophils influx into the lung, and improved lung architecture in interstitial congestion, hyaline membrane, and atelectasis formation compared to untreated animals. This study indicates that HFOV delivered budesonide effectively ameliorated respiratory function, and attenuated acid-induced lung injury in a rabbit model of severe ARDS.
Supportive Educative Dalam Asuhan Keperawatan Pada Pasien Congestive Heart Failure disertai Diabetes Melitus Tipe II
Authors: Wilandika Angga , Rachmawati Aini
Published: January 2024

Kerusakan fungsional jantung pada penyakit Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) mengakibatkan gangguan gejala fisik. Terlebih lagi pasien gagal jantung disertai kondisi diabetes melitus berdampak pada kualitas hidup berupa keterbatasan aktifitas fisik, gangguan mental, dan penurunan peran sosial. Tujuan studi ini menerapkan asuhan keperawatan dengan pendekatan supportive educative pada klien CHF yang disertai Diabetes Melitus Tipe II. Desain yang digunakan yaitu studi kasus pada pasien CHF disertasi diabetes melitus tipe II melalui proses keperawatan meliputi pengkajian perumusan diagnosis, intervensi, implementasi, dan evaluasi keperawatan. Hasil studi menunjukkan masalah prioritas yang muncul yakni penurunan curah jantung berhubungan dengan perubahan kontraktilitas jantung ditandai dengan keletihan dan ejection fraction menurun sebesar 13%. Asuhan keperawatan supportive educative yang diberikan berupa pendidikan kesehatan, modifikasi perilaku, pengelolaan aktivitas secara bertahap, dan pengambilan keputusan terkait penyakit. Perawatan ini berdampak memperbaiki kondisi fisik sehingga pasien tampak energik, tidak sesak napas, konjungtiva tidak pucat, dan tanda vital dalam batas normal. Dengan demikian, asuhan keperawatan melalui supportive educative menjadi salah satu alternatif dalam perawatan pasien rawat inap dengan gangguan jantung disertai diabetes melitus.
Quince Duncan's Los cuentos de Anansi: Reframing Young Black Lives in Anti-Racist Costa Rican Children's Literature
Authors: Postma-Montaño Regan
Published: January 2024

This article investigates the role of Los cuentos de Anansi (Anancy's Stories) (2019), written by Quince Duncan and illustrated by Ruth Angulo Cruz, in disrupting anti-Blackness via anti-racist stories for Afro-Latine young peoples in Costa Rica. Drawing from the critical work of scholars such as Richard Delgado, Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw, Patricia Hill Collins, Joe R. Feagin, Tara Yosso, and Dolores Delgado Bernal, I demonstrate how Duncan and Angulo Cruz's work provides counter-stories for Afro-Latine young people to see themselves and their ancestors as a valuable part of the national imaginary, and further, from these kinds of affirmations, offers essential tools for resistance against racism and other exclusionary oppressions. My analysis draws on three stories from the Jack Mantorra section of the picture book, ‘Yemayá, jefe del pueblo’, ‘Vaicito’, and ‘Y una historia moderna: Miguelillo Tulipán y Bambembimbombum’, all which foreground the cultural wealth of Afro-Latine peoples and cast young Black people as leaders. I argue that these stories provide important tool kits for Afro-Latine children to effectively counter whiteness and Eurocentrism, thus propelling these young readers forward. Whereas colonialism and racism have erased, occluded, or devalued Black lives and their significant contributions, Black heroes like Yemayá, Vaicito, and Miguelillo provide young readers with vital tools for constructing new meanings of self and of community that are Afrocentric in nature. Armed with these forms of cultural awareness and knowledge, Afro-Latine children can become anti-racist activists who disrupt anti-Blackness in Nuestra América. Los cuentos de Anansi seeks to transform the lives of children so that they can transform the world around them. In this regard, Los cuentos de Anansi, in proposing these transformational possibilities, allows us to envision our hemisphere in profoundly more just and equitable ways.
Capitalist Contaminations of Childhood and Pedagogical Dilutions of Literature during Chile's Popular Unity Government (1970–1973)
Authors: Anwandter Christian
Published: January 2024

This article explores the relationship between literature, childhoods, and youth in the educational sphere during the Popular Unity administration (UP) in Chile (1970–1973). The Chilean revolutionary process had curricular and pedagogical repercussions, exposing discomfort towards educational curricula and the hegemony of pedagogical methodologies employed for teaching literature in Chile. Rather than a concrete step-by-step programme for curricular and pedagogical reforms, this research will shed light on the array of institutional interventions and proposals that sought to redefine the relationships among childhoods, youths, and literature during the UP, aimed at dissolving idealised and elitist notions of literature into more ample categories of artistic works. I argue that such proposals illuminate perceptions of childhood and adolescence imbued with ideas of purity and contamination, in which cultural actors in the ecosystems of literature and education regard themselves as impervious to the risks of manipulation and, from the certainty of their positions, test various strategies to shape future citizens that meet the needs of Chile's socialist project.
Farmers Preferred Information Sources Regarding Climate Change Awareness in Mountainous Areas of Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Khadim Muhammad M. , Ch Khalid Mehmood , Shahbaz Babar , Hussain Khalid
Published: January 2024

Climate change is one of the key challenges having adverse impacts on agriculture, which is the key source of food and livelihood. Information is a critical component in the process of climate risk management. Therefore, this study was conducted in mountainous areas of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to explore the preferred information sources of the farmers to cope the climate change. A total of 384 farmers were interviewed face to face on a structured interview schedule from District Rawalpindi of Punjab and Mansehra of KPK. Collected data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The results indicated that farmers had more reliance on electronic media gadgets for information seeking as least on social media gadgets. Fellow farmers and extension field staff were also rated as the preferred information sources of the farmers. This was deduced that farmers were emphasizing n traditional sources rather than modern tools of communication like social media. There is a need to promote the use of social media tools for information sharing for climate change awareness. Social media tools have the potential to meet the information needs of the farmers and have diverse contents to disseminate about climate change. Extension field staff should use social media gadgets for information dissemination among the farmers.
Exogenous Application of Potassium and Zinc for the Growth, Yield and Agronomic Zinc Biofortification of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Murtaza Ghulam , Shah Muhammad Nadeem , Saif Muhammad Talha , Shaheryar Muhammad , Ain Qurat Ul , Yaseen Muhammad Atif , Hayat Hafiz Saqib , Hussain Shabir , Aziz Aamir , Hayat Momna , Altaf Muhammad Tanveer , Rasool Muhammad Wajahat , Abbas Muneera , Shahbaz Muhammad
Published: January 2024

In agriculture, the application of micronutrient application takes place through soil application, foliar spraying, or added seed treatments. Potassium (K) application fulfills the deficiency of K in soil due to a continuous exhaustive cropping system. Zinc (Zn) bio-fortification of seed by priming is responsible for increasing the concentration of Zn in the edible part of a seed with the aim of remedying malnutrition.  For this, a field experiment was conducted at the Agronomic research area, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan. Treatment included different rates of K (0, 40, 60, and 80 kg ha-1) and different rates of Zn (0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6%). Potassium was applied in fertigation while zinc was applied in foliar form. The experiment was designed in Randomized complete block design (RCBD) and was repeated three times. It resulted that different rate of potassium and zinc application showed a significant effect on plant growth and yield attributes. Plant growth and yield increased with increasing the rate of potassium and zinc application and decreased with the decreasing the rate of application of potassium and zinc application. The maximum values for plant growth and yield attributes were observed with K3 and Zn3 while the minimum values were recorded with the application of K0 and Zn0. Results regarding the nutrient uptakes showed that maximum values for zinc uptake were also recorded in seed and stem attributes. Maximum values for zinc uptake in seed and stem (37.2 and 14.5 mg/kg) were observed in the Zn3 treatment and the minimum values for zinc uptake (30.1 and 11 mg/kg) were recorded Zn0 treatment, respectively. It was concluded that 80 kg ha-1 application of potassium with 0.6 % foliar application of zinc significantly affects the growth and yield of wheat crops. Zinc foliar application can be helpful for zinc fortification.
Genetic Diversity Studies in Durum Wheat (Triticum durum L.) Accessions
Authors: Kaleri Ghulam Sajjad , Memon Shabana , Kaleri Asif Ali , Magsi Murad Ali , Kumar Vijai , Dhiloo Abdul Jabbar , Awan Muzamil Hussain , Banbhan Ghulam Mustafa , Kaleri Imtiaz Ali , Kalhoro Muzamil Hussain , Kaleri Mohsin Khan , Soomro Ghazala , Kakar Najeebullah , Shar Amjad Raza
Published: January 2024

Genetic diversity among durum wheat tetraploid species has a premium to understand the diversity within the genotypes. This study’s major objective was to learn more about the diversity and relationships between various durum genotypes. The experiment was design randomized complete block design with three replications. In this study, a total of eight durum advance lines, namely DW-1, DW-2, DW-3, DW-4, DW-5, DW-6, DW-7, and DW-8, were included with one Durum check wheat Miki3 and spring wheat Khirman to investigate the interrelationship and genetic diversity of quantitative traits and they ‘reaming these traits. For nearly all of the features, the analysis of variance revealed considerable variations among the durum advance lines, as evidenced by the significant mean squares at a probability level of P≤0.01. The mean performance results indicated variations in genotype performance DW8 exhibited maximum days to heading, tallest plant height (cm), and shortest peduncle length was measured in durum wheat. DW6 attained shorter plant height was recorded as compared to both check varieties. A notable variation was detected among the genotypes concerning the trait "number of tillers per m2". The genotype with the highest number of tillers appeared to be spring wheat and the minimum number of tillers was recorded in DW4, respectively. Significantly maximum number of spikelet’s, per spike-1,biological yield plant-1 and protein content % were observed in DW3, amount of grains spike-1 were significant in DW6, main spike yield per plant (g) was recorded in DW3. Whereas minimum grains spike-1and minimum spike yield was observed in DW9, respectively. Grain yield plot-1 (2.3333 kg) was observed significantly higher in DW6 and minimum Grain yield plot-1 (1.6667 kg) in DW10 was observed. Regards correlation, Grain yield plant-1 revealed there was a positive and significant correlation with respect to the trait "days to75% headline, days to 75% maturity, grains Spike-1, main spike yield-1 and 1000-Grain Weight (g) (r=0.500**, r=0.679**, r=0.316*, r=0.316*, r=0.533** and r=0.308*). Using UPGMA, two members of cluster 1 and cluster 2 were found to have closer relationship with different durum genotypes. However, miki 3 had closer relation with DW-8. The largest positive PCA loadings were observed in grains yield plant-1 and 1000 grains weight for the second, third, fourth and fifth PCA group. Hence, DW-8 was nearer relation with miki3, and DW-3, DW-10 and DW-6 considered the best genotypes according to performance.
EDUKASI KHASIAT, PEMANFAATAN, DAN PEMASARAN PRODUK BUNGA TELANG (CLITORIA TERNATEA L.) PADA SANTRI PONDOK PESANTREN AL-AMANAH SIDOARJO
Authors: Zulfa Ilil Maidatuz , Permatasari Intan Kurnia
Published: January 2024

Clitoria ternatea L. known as Butterfly pea has been recognized for its benefits on health. The high content of anthocyanins, anthocyanidins and flavanols in its flower petals play an important role as an antioxidant. In this era, butterfly pea could be used as various product such as health drink, organics dye, cosmetics, etc. However, a lack information has been delivered to the community. This article reported community service activity conducted in Pondok Pesantren Al-Amanah Sidoarjo Krian that been purposed to increase the students’ knowledge on the benefits of butterfly pea and their skill in making health drink. A total of 114 students joined the event. 77 of them had filled the pre and post event questionnaire assessed knowledge in butterfly pea benefits. The results showed that there was a rise in number of participants who had positive knowlede on the advantages of butterfly pea. A continuous campaign and public education will increase the community knowledge and skill in the utilization of natural products for our health concern.
UJI AKTIVITAS ANTIBAKTERI EKSTRAK ETANOL dan FRAKSI DAUN SEMBUNG (Blumea balsamifera L.) TERHADAP BAKTERI Staphylococcus epidermidis
Authors: Sa'adah Hayatus , Pristanti Ragilia , Warnida Husnul
Published: January 2024

Sembung Leaves (Blumea balsamifera L.) is a plant with many properties, one of which is antibacterial. Sembung leaves have several chemical compounds such as tannins, saponins, and flavonoids which function as antibacterials. This study aims to determine the diameter of inhibition zone, the value of Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) dan the value of Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) of ethanol extract, n-hexane fraction, ethyl acetat fraction and water fraction of sembung leaves (Blumea balsamifera L.) against the staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria. Antibacterial testing by using disc diffusion dan solid dilution methods. Ethanol extract and fractions of sembung leaf (Blumea balsamifera L.) that has been obtained are diluted with a concentration of 10%, 25%, and 50%. The positive control as clindamycin 1% and DMSO as the negative control. The results showed that ethanol extract of sembung leaves (Blumea balsamifera L.) can inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria at a concentration of 10% which is 8,1 mm, concentration of 25% which is 9,13 mm, concentration of 50% which is 10,1 mm. The n-hexane fraction can inhibit Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria at a concentration of 10 % which is 6,1 mm, concentration of 25% which is 7,11 mm, concentrarion of 50% which is 7,21 mm. The ethyl acetate fraction can inhibit Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria at a concentration of 10% which is 9,1 mm, concentration of 25% which is 11,16 mm, concentration of 50% which is 12,26 mm. The water fraction there is no inhibition zone diameter. The MIC of ethanol extract of sembung leaves is 10%, n-hexane fraction is 25% and ethyl acetate fraction is 10%. The MBC of ethanol extract was at a concentration of 25%, n-hexane fraction at a concentration of 50% and ethyl acetate fraction at a concentration of 10%.
"Mary Wears What She Wants": Nurturing Gender Expression in Primary School Children
Authors: Wei Samantha , Peng Lance
Published: January 2024

Utilising her extensive teaching experience at Taipei Private Zhongshan Elementary School, Samantha Wei developed a teaching plan for first-grade students that incorporates the picture book "Mary Wears What She Wants" by Keith Negley, aiming to foster awareness of gender expression. This plan underwent further refinement and was transformed into an academic poster by Lance Peng, a PhD candidate, and subsequently presented at a seminar hosted by the Faculty of Education at the University of Cambridge. The primary objective was to initiate scholarly discussions within broader academic communities concerning the utilisation of picture books in addressing gender expression among children. The core of this teaching session revolve around critical analysis, self-reflection and expression, as well as cultural understanding and empathy. Furthermore, this picture book teaching plan possesses the potential to be expanded to encompass transgender issues. Moreover, by incorporating aesthetic education, it enables students to explore their own distinctive sartorial style.
Cardiopulmonary nerve stimulation as a novel therapy for cardiac autonomic nervous system modulation
Authors: Salavatian Siamak , Spinelli Julio C. , Schaefer Jeremy A. , Libbus Imad , Mahajan Aman , Armour J. Andrew
Published: January 2024

Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) carries a significant burden of mortality and morbidity, 30 with few effective treatments available. Cardiopulmonary nerve stimulation (CPNS), which involves targeted electrical stimulation of specific nerves that innervate the heart, is an innovative emerging therapeutic ADHF management strategy. In a recent study, Emani et al. used the CPNS using a low-level stimulation which enhanced cardiac inotropy, decreased energy consumption, and improved patients’ symptoms, function, and quality of life. The mechanism of action of CPNS that drove these promising results was not described by Emani et al. This commentary aims to explore the mechanisms of CPNS, focusing on its neuromodulatory effects on the cardiac autonomic nervous system (CANS) and its potential to revolutionize ADHF therapy.
Intrinsic signal optoretinography of dark adaptation abnormality due to rod photoreceptor degeneration
Authors: Ding Jie , Kim Tae-Hoon , Ma Guangying , Yao Xincheng
Published: January 2024

This research aims to investigate the potential of using intrinsic optical signal (IOS) optoretinography (ORG) to objectively detect dark adaptation (DA) abnormalities related to rod photoreceptor degeneration. Functional optical coherence tomography (OCT) was employed in both wild-type (WT) and retinal degeneration 10 (rd10) mice to conduct this assessment. Dynamic OCT measurements captured the changes in retinal thickness and reflectance from light-to-dark transition. Comparative analysis revealed significant IOS alterations within the outer retina. Specifically, a reduction in thickness from external limiting membrane (ELM) peak to retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) peak was observed (WT: 1.13 ± 0.69 µm, 30 min DA; rd10: 2.64 ± 0.86 µm, 30 min DA), as well as a decrease in the intensity of the inner segment ellipsoid zone (EZ) in 30 min DA compared to light adaptation (LA). The reduction of relative EZ intensity was notable in rd10 after 5 min DA and in WT after 15 min DA, with a distinguishable difference between rd10 and WT after 10 min DA. Furthermore, our findings indicated a significant decrease in the relative intensity of the hypo-reflective band between EZ and RPE in rd10 retinas during DA, which primarily corresponds to the outer segment (OS) region. In conclusion, the observed DA-IOS abnormalities, including changes in ELM-RPE thickness, EZ, and OS intensity, hold promise as differentiators between WT and rd10 mice before noticeable morphological abnormalities occur. These findings suggest the potential of this non-invasive imaging technique for the early detection of dysfunction in retinal photoreceptors.
Energy harvesting from plants using hybrid microbial fuel cells; potential applications and future exploitation
Authors: Greenman John , Thorn Robin , Willey Neil , Ieropoulos Ioannis
Published: January 2024

Microbial Fuel Cells (MFC) can be fuelled using biomass derived from dead plant material and can operate on plant produced chemicals such as sugars, carbohydrates, polysaccharides and cellulose, as well as being “fed” on a regular diet of primary biomass from plants or algae. An even closer relationship can exist if algae (e.g., prokaryotic microalgae or eukaryotic and unicellular algae) can colonise the open to air cathode chambers of MFCs driving photosynthesis, producing a high redox gradient due to the oxygenic phase of collective algal cells. The hybrid system is symbiotic; the conditions within the cathodic chamber favour the growth of microalgae whilst the increased redox and production of oxygen by the algae, favour a more powerful cathode giving a higher maximum voltage and power to the photo-microbial fuel cell, which can ultimately be harvested for a range of end-user applications. MFCs can utilise a wide range of plant derived materials including detritus, plant composts, rhizodeposits, root exudates, dead or dying macro- or microalgae, via Soil-based Microbial Fuel Cells, Sediment Microbial Fuel Cells, Plant-based microbial fuel cells, floating artificial islands and constructed artificial wetlands. This review provides a perspective on this aspect of the technology as yet another attribute of the benevolent Bioelectrochemical Systems.
p75NTR antibody-conjugated microspheres: an approach to guided tissue regeneration by selective recruitment of endogenous periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Zou Xuqiang , Xie Bo , Peng Xuelian , Lu Mingjie , Xu Dan , Yuan Hongyan , Zhang Yixin , Wang Di , Zhao Manzhu , Liu Rui , Wen Xiujie
Published: January 2024

Repairing defects in alveolar bone is essential for regenerating periodontal tissue, but it is a formidable challenge. One promising therapeutic approach involves using a strategy that specifically recruits periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) with high regenerative potential to achieve in situ regeneration of alveolar bone. In this study, we have created a new type of microsphere conjugated with an antibody to target p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), which is made of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) and chitosan (CS). The goal of this design is to attract p75NTR+hPDLCs selectively and promote osteogenesis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the antibody-conjugated microspheres attracted significantly more PDLCs compared to non-conjugated microspheres. Incorporating nHA not only enhances cell adhesion and proliferation on the surface of the microsphere but also augments its osteoinductive properties. Microspheres effectively recruited p75NTR+ cells at bone defect sites in SD rats, as observed through immunofluorescent staining of p75NTR antibodies. This p75NTR antibody-conjugated nHA/CS microsphere presents a promising approach for selectively recruiting cells and repairing bone defects.
17β-estradiol biosensors based on different bioreceptors and their applications
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Kong Fanli , Liu Yaoyao , Lv Shiya , Zhang Kui , Sun Shutong , Liu Juntao , Wang Mixia , Cai Xinxia , Jin Hongyan , Yan Shi , Luo Jinping
Published: January 2024

17β-Estradiol (E2) is a critical sex steroid hormone, which has significant effects on the endocrine systems of both humans and animals. E2 is also believed to play neurotrophic and neuroprotective roles in the brain. Biosensors present a powerful tool to detect E2 because of their small, efficient, and flexible design. Furthermore, Biosensors can quickly and accurately obtain detection results with only a small sampling amount, which greatly meets the detection of the environment, food safety, medicine safety, and human body. This review focuses on previous studies of biosensors for detecting E2 and divides them into non-biometric sensors, enzyme biosensors, antibody biosensors, and aptamer biosensors according to different bioreceptors. The advantages, disadvantages, and design points of various bioreceptors for E2 detection are analyzed and summarized. Additionally, applications of different bioreceptors of E2 detection are presented and highlight the field of environmental monitoring, food and medicine safety, and disease detection in recent years. Finally, the development of E2 detection by biosensor is prospected.
Cross-talk between Helicobacter pylori and gastric cancer: a scientometric analysis
Authors: Yang Shanshan , Hao Shaodong , Ye Hui , Zhang Xuezhi
Published: January 2024

Background

Helicobacter pylori (HP) is considered a leading risk factor for gastric cancer (GC). The aim of this article is to conduct bibliometric and visual analysis to assess scientific output, identify highly cited papers, summarize current knowledge, and explore recent hotspots and trends in HP/GC research.

Methods

A bibliographic search was conducted on October 24, 2023, to retrieve relevant studies on HP/GC research between 2003 and 2022. The search terms were attached to HP and GC. The main data were from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). Data visualization was performed using Biblioshiny, VOSviewer, and Microsoft Excel.

Results

In HP/GC research, 1970 papers were retrieved. The total number of papers (Np) in HP/GC was growing from 2003 to 2022. China and Japan were in the leading position and made the most contributions to HP/GC. Vanderbilt University and the US Department of Veterans Affairs had the highest Np. The most productive authors were Peek Jr Richard M. and Piazuelo M Blanca. Helicobacter received the most Np, while Gastroenterology had the most total citations (TC). High-cited publications and keyword clustering were used to identify the current status and trends in HP/GC research, while historical citation analysis provided insight into the evolution of HP/GC research. The hot topics included the effect of HP on gastric tumorigenesis and progression, the pathogenesis of HP-induced GC (HP factors), and the mechanisms by which HP affects GC (host factors). Research in the coming years could focus on topics such as autophagy, gut microbiota, immunotherapy, exosomes, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT).

Conclusion

This study evaluated the global scientific output in HP/GC research and its quantitative characteristics, identified the essential works, and collected information on the current status, main focuses and emerging trends in HP/GC research to provide academics with guidance for future paths.
The parasitic worm product ES-62 protects against collagen-induced arthritis by resetting the gut-bone marrow axis in a microbiome-dependent manner
Authors: Harnett Margaret M. , Doonan James , Tarafdar Anuradha , Pineda Miguel A. , Duncombe-Moore Josephine , Buitrago Geraldine , Pan Piaopiao , Hoskisson Paul A. , Selman Colin , Harnett William
Published: January 2024

The parasitic worm-derived immunomodulator, ES-62 rescues defective levels of IL-10-producing regulatory B cells (Bregs) and suppresses chronic Th1/Th17-driven inflammation to protect against joint destruction in the mouse collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model of rheumatoid arthritis. Such autoimmune arthritis is also associated with dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and disruption of intestinal barrier integrity. We recently further exploited the CIA model to show that ES-62’s prevention of joint destruction is associated with protection of intestinal barrier integrity and normalization of the gut microbiota, thereby suppressing the gut pathology that precedes the onset of autoimmunity and joint damage in CIA-mice. As the status of the gut microbiota impacts on immune responses by influencing haematopoiesis, we have therefore investigated whether ES-62 harnesses the homeostatic mechanisms regulating this gut-bone marrow (BM) axis to resolve the chronic inflammation promoting autoimmunity and joint destruction in CIA. Reflecting this, ES-62 was found to counteract the BM myeloid/lymphoid bias typically associated with chronic inflammation and infection. This was achieved primarily by ES-62 acting to maintain the levels of lymphoid lineages (B220+ and CD3+ cells) observed in naïve, healthy mice but lost from the BM of CIA-mice. Moreover, ES-62’s ability to prevent bone-destroying osteoclastogenesis was found to be associated with its suppression of CIA-induced upregulation of osteoclast progenitors (OCPs) in the BM. Critically, and supporting ES-62’s targeting of the gut-BM axis, this rewiring of inflammatory haematopoiesis was lost in mice with a depleted microbiome. Underlining the importance of ES-62’s actions in restoring steady-state haematopoiesis, the BM levels of B and T lymphoid cells were shown to be inversely correlated, whilst the levels of OCPs positively correlated, with the severity of joint damage in CIA-mice.
Marine sponges as promising candidates for integrated aquaculture combining biomass increase and bioremediation: an updated review
Authors: Amato Amalia , Esposito Roberta , Federico Serena , Pozzolini Marina , Giovine Marco , Bertolino Marco , Guida Marco , Manfra Loredana , Libralato Giovanni , Zupo Valerio , Costantini Maria
Published: January 2024

Sponge farming has been experimentally performed for more than 100 years, with early attempts mainly devoted for the supply of bath sponges and for ornamental purposes. During the last decades, sponge farming has been proposed to produce biomass specifically for those species from which many structurally diverse bioactive compounds were isolated, frequently present in a low concentration that limits their commercial production. This point is very important because it offers an environmental-friendly approach for the use of sponges as a source of natural compounds for pharmacological, cosmeceutical, and nutraceutical industries. In addition, sponges can have an ecological role as filter-feeding animals with a great significance in marine benthic communities. Thanks to their aquiferous system, they can filter large amounts of sea water, retaining up to 80% of suspended particles, resulting in a good system to bioremediate the marine environment from different contaminants. Remarkably, few attempts at integrating aquaculture systems were performed by combining the increase in sponge biomass and their use for bioremediation, showing impressive results and opening new possibilities in the aquaculture sector. This review concerns both in situ and lab-based aquaculture methods for the production of sponge biomass and for the sponge-related bioremediation of the marine environment focusing on microorganisms and contaminants (heavy metals, pesticides, microplastics, and others). Moreover, a first overview about integrated aquaculture combining biomass increase and bioremediation, as a challenging perspective for marine biotechnologies, is included.
Abundance and distribution of narwhals (Monodon monoceros) on the summering grounds in Greenland between 2007-2019
Authors: Hansen R. G. , Borchers D. L. , Heide-Jørgensen M. P.
Published: January 2024

Narwhal abundance in West Greenland (WG) and East Greenland (EG) was estimated from aerial surveys conducted between 2007 and 2019 at their summer grounds. Analyses were completed using Mark Recapture Distance Sampling and Hidden Markov Line Transect Models taking account of the stochastic availability of diving whales. No statistically significant difference in abundance of narwhals could be detected for the two summer grounds (Melville Bay and Inglefield Bredning) in WG between 2007 and 2019. The distribution of narwhals in Inglefield Bredning was similar between years but in Melville Bay, area usage has decreased >80% since the first survey in 2007. Few detections of narwhals were obtained during the surveys in EG and a common detection function was fitted from combining sightings from seven surveys. Narwhals were found in small aggregations distributed between Nordostrundingen and south to and including Tasiilaq. Abundance of narwhals was estimated for the first time in the relatively unexplored Northeast Greenland (Dove Bay and a restricted coastal area of the Greenland Sea). The abundance in these two areas was 2908 narwhals (CV=0.30; 95% CI:1639-5168) estimated in 2017 for the Greenland Sea and 2297 (0.38; 1123-4745) and 1395 (0.33; 744-2641) narwhals were estimated for Dove Bay in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Both abundance and distribution range of narwhals in Southeast Greenland, where narwhals are subject to subsistence harvest, has decreased significantly between 2008-2017 and narwhals have even disappeared at the southernmost area since the first surveys in 2008.
Combining Charlson comorbidity and VACS indices improves prognostic accuracy for all-cause mortality for patients with and without HIV in the Veterans Health Administration
Authors: McGinnis Kathleen A. , Justice Amy C. , Marconi Vincent C. , Rodriguez-Barradas Maria C. , Hauser Ronald G. , Oursler Krisann K. , Brown Sheldon T. , Bryant Kendall J. , Tate Janet P. ,   for the Veterans Aging Cohort Study
Published: January 2024

Introduction

As people age with HIV (PWH), many comorbid diseases are more common than among age matched comparators without HIV (PWoH). While the Veterans Aging Cohort (VACS) Index 2.0 accurately predicts mortality in PWH using age and clinical biomarkers, the only included comorbidity is hepatitis C. We asked whether adding comorbid disease groupings from the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) improves the accuracy of VACS Index.

Methods

To maximize our ability to model mortality among older age groups, we began with PWoH in Veterans Health Administration (VA) from 2007–2017, divided into development and validation samples. Baseline predictors included age, and components of CCI and VACS Index (excluding CD4 count and HIV RNA). Patients were followed until December 31, 2021. We used Cox models to develop the VACS-CCI score and estimated mortality using a parametric (gamma) survival model. We compared accuracy using C-statistics and calibration curves in validation overall and within subgroups (gender, age </≥65 years, race/ethnicity, and CCI score). We then applied VACS-CCI in PWH and compared its accuracy to age, VACS Index 2.0, CCI and VACS-CCI with CD4 and HIV RNA added.

Results

The analytic sample consisted of 6,588,688 PWoH and 30,539 PWH. Among PWoH/PWH, median age was 65/55 years; 6%/3% were women; 15%/48% were Black and 5%/7% Hispanic. VACS-CCI provided the best discrimination (C-statistic = 0.81) with excellent calibration (predicted and observed mortality largely overlapped) overall and within subgroups. When VACS-CCI was applied to PWH it demonstrated similar discrimination as VACS Index 2.0 (C-statistic = 0.77 for both) but superior calibration among those with CD4 < 200. Discrimination was improved when CD4 and HIV RNA were added VACS-CCI (C-statistic = 0.79). Liver and kidney disease, congestive heart failure, malignancy, and dementia were negatively associated with CD4 (p-trends all <0.0001).

Discussion

Among PWH and PWoH in VA care, age alone weakly discriminates risk of mortality. VACS Index 2.0, CCI, and VACS-CCI all provide better discrimination, but VACS-CCI is more consistently calibrated. The association of comorbid diseases with lower CD4 underscores the likely role of HIV in non-AIDS conditions. Future work will include adding CD4 and HIV RNA to VACS-CCI and validating it in independent data.
Association between acetaminophen administration and clinical outcomes in patients with sepsis admitted to the ICU: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sun Shilin , Liu Han , Liang Qun , Yang Yang , Cao Xuedan , Zheng Boyang
Published: January 2024

Background

Sepsis, affecting over 30 million people worldwide each year, is a key mortality risk factor in critically ill patients. There are significant regional discrepancies in its impact. Acetaminophen, a common over-the-counter drug, is often administered to control fever in suspected infection cases in intensive care units (ICUs). It is considered generally safe when used at therapeutic levels. Despite its widespread use, there’s inconsistent research regarding its efficacy in sepsis management, which creates uncertainties for ICU doctors about its possible advantages or harm. To address this, we undertook a retrospective cohort study utilizing the MIMIC-IV database to examine the correlation between acetaminophen use and clinical outcomes in septic patients admitted to the ICU.

Methods

We gathered pertinent data on sepsis patients from the MIMIC-IV database. We used propensity score matching (PSM) to pair acetaminophen-treated patients with those who were not treated. We then used Cox Proportional Hazards models to examine the relationships between acetaminophen use and factors such as in-hospital mortality, 30-day mortality, hospital stay duration, and ICU stay length.

Results

The data analysis involved 22,633 sepsis patients. Post PSM, a total of 15,843 patients were matched; each patient not receiving acetaminophen treatment was paired with two patients who received it. There was a correlation between acetaminophen and a lower in-hospital mortality rate (HR 0.443; 95% CI 0.371–0.530; p < 0.001) along with 30-day mortality rate (HR 0.497; 95% CI 0.424–0.583; p < 0.001). Additionally, it correlated with a decrease in the duration of hospitalization [8.4 (5.0, 14.8) vs. 9.0 (5.1, 16.0), p < 0.001] and a shorter ICU stay [2.8 (1.5, 6.0) vs. 3.1 (1.7, 6.5); p < 0.05].

Conclusion

The use of acetaminophen may lower short-term mortality in critically ill patients with sepsis. To confirm this correlation, future research should involve multicenter randomized controlled trials.
The 28S rRNA RT-qPCR assay for host depletion evaluation to enhance avian virus detection in Illumina and Nanopore sequencing
Authors: Goraichuk Iryna V. , Harden Mark , Spackman Erica , Suarez David L.
Published: January 2024

Abundant host and bacterial sequences can obscure the detection of less prevalent viruses in untargeted next-generation sequencing (NGS). Efficient removal of these non-targeted sequences is vital for accurate viral detection. This study presents a novel 28S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) RT-qPCR assay designed to assess the efficiency of avian rRNA depletion before conducting costly NGS for the detection of avian RNA viruses. The comprehensive evaluation of this 28S-test focuses on substituting DNase I with alternative DNases in our established depletion protocols and finetuning essential parameters for reliable host rRNA depletion. To validate the effectiveness of the 28S-test, we compared its performance with NGS results obtained from both Illumina and Nanopore sequencing platforms. This evaluation utilized swab samples from chickens infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, subjected to established and modified depletion protocols. Both methods significantly reduced host rRNA levels, but using the alternative DNase had superior performance. Additionally, utilizing the 28S-test, we explored cost- and time-effective strategies, such as reduced probe concentrations and other alternative DNase usage, assessed the impact of filtration pre-treatment, and evaluated various experimental parameters to further optimize the depletion protocol. Our findings underscore the value of the 28S-test in optimizing depletion methods for advancing improvements in avian disease research through NGS.
Study on seed-borne cultivable bacterial diversity and antibiotic resistance of Poa pratensis L.
Authors: Xie Jinjing , Yang Jie , Zhu Shaowei , Hou Xuan , Chen Haiyan , Bai Xiaoming , Zhang Zhenfen
Published: January 2024

In order to study the difference of cultivable seed-borne bacterial diversity between commercial varieties and wild species of Poa pratensis L., and their antibiotic resistance to sulfadiazine, tetracycline, oxytetracycline, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, oxytetracycline and rifampin. In this study, 60 bacterium isolates were isolated by dilution-coated plate method. Through 16S rRNA sequence analysis, 40 representative isolates with different morphological characteristics were identified and phylogenetic tree was constructed. The results of diversity analysis showed that the seed-borne bacterial diversity of commercial varieties was richer than that of wild species. The antibiotic resistance of the isolated bacterial strains was studied by agar dilution method, and it was concluded that the antibiotic resistance of the seed-borne bacteria carried by commercial varieties was stronger than that of the wild species. Finally, the biofilm formation ability and swimming motility of the bacterial strain were measured, and the correlation between the two and the antibiotic resistance of the bacterial strain was analyzed. The analysis showed that the antibiotic resistance of bacterial strains in Poa pratensis L. was significantly correlated with their swimming motility. In addition, the swimming motility of the bacterial strains was significantly correlated with the biofilm formation ability. It is worth mentioning that this is the first time to study the drug-resistant bacteria distributed in the seed-borne bacteria of Poa pratensis L.
Endovascular treatment for sphenoidal region dural arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Yu Jinlu
Published: January 2024

Sphenoidal region dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are rare. Endovascular treatment (EVT) is an effective treatment approach. However, understanding and performing EVT for sphenoidal region DAVFs are difficult and challenging. Therefore, we performed a review to explore this issue further. In this review, we discuss the dural feeders and venous structures of the sphenoidal region, the angioarchitecture of sphenoidal region DAVFs, the role and principle of EVT, various EVT techniques, and the prognosis and complications associated with EVT. We found that various EVT techniques, including transarterial embolization (TAE), retrograde transvenous embolization (TVE), and direct puncture EVT, can be used to treat sphenoidal region DAVFs. TAE represents the most commonly utilized approach. TVE and direct puncture EVT should be limited to highly selective cases. EVT must penetrate the fistula and very proximal venous recipient pouch with a liquid embolic agent or coil the fistula point to have a complete curative effect. Successful EVT can lead to the obliteration of sphenoidal region DAVFs and a good clinical outcome. However, these complications cannot be neglected.