bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryptic Speciation and Characteristics of the Transition Bias Following an Example of the cytb Gene in Palearctic Mammals
Authors: Mezhzherin S. , Morozov-Leonov S. , Rostovskaya O. , Tereshchenko V. , Zhalay O.
Published: February 2024

A study of taxonomic differentiation and transition bias of the cytb gene, focusing on the early stages of speciation, was carried out in 15 subfamilies/families of five orders of Palearctic mammals. It was confirmed that the genetic differentiation among taxa of small and large mammals is shifted by the same taxonomic level, in which connection the period of cryptic speciation of Micromammalia (semi- and allospecific levels) corresponds to the divergence of type species in their genus within Macromammalia. In all cases, both transition bias and its evolutionary compensation took place. The novelty of the study also lies in the proof that the alignment of the transitions and transversion rates in evolutionary lineages has the pattern of a phase transition, and the frequency of transversions in short-cycle species of the orders Insectivora and Rodentia is higher than in long-cycle orders Artiodactyla, Carnivora and Chiroptera while with relative equality of transitions. The latter circumstance might be associated with the traits of metabolism and determines the characteristics of the molecular evolution of mammalian groups with short and long life cycles.
University Students and Teachers’ Experiences with Distance Education in Uzbekistan
Authors: Akhmedjanova Diana , Kerimova Irina
Published: February 2024

This study has examined the experiences of students and teachers with distance education in Uzbekistan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Distance education is a new field in Uzbekistan, and evidence-based practices should be examined for its successful implementation. A convergent mixed-methods design was used, employing surveys and focus group interviews. The survey data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and the focus group interview data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The results revealed that students and faculty had both positive and negative experiences with distance education, but also suggested that teachers were more self-efficacious in teaching online rather than students learning online. This exploratory study indicates that students need targeted instruction and support on studying online and self-regulate their learning. Teachers should participate in intensive professional learning workshops on materials design and pedagogical practices in online classes. Practical applications and ideas for future research are discussed.
Green production management in the aluminum industry: A sustainable approach towards environmental performance
Authors: Safarov Jamil , Hasanov Ramil
Published: February 2024

Implementing green production management (GPM) practices has become increasingly vital for ensuring a sustainable future. Integrating green scientific research into the aluminum industry is imperative for achieving economic and environmental benefits. Despite being touted as a "green metal," the aluminum production process presents significant sustainability challenges. Notably, the industry contributes a substantial 3% to global carbon emissions, with the production of one metric ton of primary aluminum releasing 10-20 metric tons of CO2. Thus, reducing these emissions is critical to promoting environmental sustainability within the industry. This article meticulously examines this pressing issue and analyzes potential strategies to foster a greener aluminum production process. The intrinsic value of this study lies in its capacity to make substantive contributions towards environmentally sustainable practices in this specific industrial domain.
Measuring healthcare efficiency in Kazakhstan: an application of data envelopment analysis
Authors: Omir Aida , Satybaldin Azimkhan , Ruzanov Rashid , Khajiyeva Gulzhakhan
Published: February 2024

The study aims to evaluate the efficiency of the Republic of Kazakhstan's healthcare sector over the period 2014-2021 using the non-parametric method of data envelope analysis. The analysis was carried out based on quantitative indicators of the medical statistics of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The study's results prove that efficiency tends to change over the medium term. Simultaneously, implementing digital technologies based on the computerisation and digitalisation of the healthcare sector in the short term is revealed to reduce overall efficiency, but that efficiency increases in the long term. The events of the COVID-19 pandemic did not reduce the overall efficiency of the healthcare sector in the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Financial statements’ reliability affects firms’ performance: A case of Vietnam
Authors: Kim Quoc Trung Nguyen , Tran Hong Van , Le Van Tuan , Minh Hang Nguyen , Nguyen Thi Ngoc Oanh
Published: February 2024

This paper aims to estimate the effect of the reliability of financial statements on listed firms’ performance in Vietnam, especially on the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange, from 2015 to 2022. Based on International Financial Reporting Standards, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and theories, reliability is a key attribute of information quality in financial statements. Besides, using the quantitative method of feasible generalized least squares (FGLS), the findings show that reliability positively affects listed firms’ performance with a confidence interval of 95%. On the platform of agency theory, the reliability of financial statements is considered a tool to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of managers and the board of directors to external users, while stakeholder theory considers the advantages of the disclosure of reliable financial statements in terms of gaining performance.
How does technological readiness, among other factors, influence the dynamics of agricultural exports from Vietnam to major EU trading partners?
Authors: Tran Mai Ngoc
Published: February 2024

The agricultural sector plays a significant role in Vietnam's economy, contributing to food security, employment, and export revenues. The European Union (EU) has emerged as a promising market for Vietnam's agricultural exports in recent years. However, Vietnam must embrace technological advancements in the agricultural sector to penetrate and succeed in the highly competitive and regulated EU market. Despite the evidence supporting the positive impact of technology adoption on agricultural exports, there is a research gap regarding the specific role of technological readiness in promoting Vietnam's agricultural exports to the EU. This study aims to fill this research gap by investigating the relationship between technological readiness and Vietnam's agricultural exports to the EU market. The findings can provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to formulate strategies that enhance the competitiveness of Vietnam's agricultural sector and increase exports to the EU market.
Resident’s perceptions towards tourism development in Buddha’s footsteps in India
Authors: Velinov Emil , Dhiraj Ankit , Kumar Sanjeev , Rani Divya
Published: February 2024

Tourism experts have considered the local perspective as an important area of research involving the tourist sector. Residents of places where sharing and preserving their culture are essential can experience both positive and negative effects from tourism. This study examined how Indian Buddhist circuit residents felt about tourism using a benefits-based approach. The paper's primary goal is to investigate residents' perceptions of tourism development in the Buddhist circuit in India. Data were collected using a five-point Likert scale from 175 Buddhist circuit residents in India, who had 31 statements. The researcher used a convenience sampling approach. The study took place over 24 weeks from January to July 2022. According to the results, people living in Buddhist circuits are more sensitive to tourism's economic effects than its cultural and social aspects. The local community will support tourism growth if it brings about considerable personal benefits.
Key factors affecting online shopping attitude and intention: A case study of consumers in Vietnam
Authors: Nga Lu Phi , Tam Phan Thanh
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 outbreak has altered consumer purchasing patterns and behavior worldwide. Online shopping services have grown rapidly in Vietnam in recent years, owing to the coronavirus's highly contagious nature and the convenience of online buying and delivery. For that reason, the authors carried out a study to determine online shopping intention, which aims to discover which factors affect intentions. Then, managerial implications are proposed to help businesses develop appropriate business strategies in the new, post-COVID period. The data was collected from 700 consumers buying online products. Five critical factors affecting online shopping intention were identified: perceived usefulness, ease of use, confidence, safety level, and customer service. The research paper applied structural equation modeling to study individual customers' intentions to purchase online shopping products by adding the customer service element to the research model and using a customer-oriented approach to find out users’ intentions to purchase products on online platforms.
Learning and metacognition under volatility in GD: Lower learning rates and distorted coupling between action and confidence
Authors: Hoven Monja , Luigjes Judy , van Holst Ruth J.
Published: February 2024

Background and aims

Decisions and learning processes are under metacognitive control, where confidence in one's actions guides future behaviour. Indeed, studies have shown that being more confident results in less action updating and learning, and vice versa. This coupling between action and confidence can be disrupted, as has been found in individuals with high compulsivity symptoms. Patients with Gambling Disorder (GD) have been shown to exhibit both higher confidence and deficits in learning.

Methods

In this study, we tested the hypotheses that patients with GD display increased confidence, reduced action updating and lower learning rates. Additionally, we investigated whether the action-confidence coupling was distorted in patients with GD. To address this, 27 patients with GD and 30 control participants performed a predictive inference task designed to assess action and confidence dynamics during learning under volatility. Action-updating, confidence and their coupling were assessed and computational modeling estimated parameters for learning rates, error sensitivity, and sensitivity to environmental changes.

Results

Contrary to our expectations, results revealed no significant group differences in action updating or confidence levels. Nevertheless, GD patients exhibited a weakened coupling between confidence and action, as well as lower learning rates.

Discussion and conclusions

This suggests that patients with GD may underutilize confidence when steering future behavioral choices. Ultimately, these findings point to a disruption of metacognitive control in GD, without a general overconfidence bias in neutral, non-incentivized volatile learning contexts.
THE ROLE OF MINOR AND MEDIUM HYDROELECTRIC POWER STATIONS IN THE ENERGY SECTOR OF THE KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
Authors: Alisherov Eldar
Published: February 2024

The Kyrgyz Republic possesses 2 % of power resources of the Central Asia and 30 % of hydropower resources and only oone-tenth usedly. The minor and medium hydroelectric power stations would allow electrifying more widely the areas located far away from general power supply systems, contributing development of animal husbandry and mountain agriculture, small industrial and social objects, especially in remote areas. Along with that they could bring considerable contribution to the development of power supply sources of the Kyrgyz Republic. Implementation of development prospects of minor and medium water-power engineering requires an effective utilization of hydropower resources of the small rivers in Kyrgyzstan, attraction of investors for construction, reconstruction and restoration of the written off minor and medium hydroelectric power stations.
Bir Matematik Öğretmeninin Öğretime Yönelik Üstbilişsel Bilgisi: Denk Kesirler Örneği
Authors: KILIÇ Pınar , YETKİN ÖZDEMİR İffet Elif
Published: February 2024

Çoğunlukla öğrenme süreçleri ile ilişkili bir kavram olarak ele alınan üstbiliş, bilişsel pek çok süreci içeren öğretim faaliyetlerinin etkili bir şekilde yerine getirilmesinde de önemli bir rol oynar. Araştırmalar genel olarak öğretmenlerin üstbilişsel deneyimlerine (öğretimin planlanması, izlenmesi, değerlendirilmesi gibi) ve bunların nasıl geliştirilebileceğine odaklanmıştır. Bu çalışmada, matematik öğretimi için gerekli üstbilişsel bilgi yapılarını incelemek amaçlanmıştır. Bu kapsamda bir matematik öğretmeninin denk kesirler konusunun öğretimi sırasında işe koştuğu üstbilişsel bilgiler, üstbiliş ve öğretmen bilgisi modelleri çerçevesinde tanımlanmıştır. Nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden durum çalışması deseni kullanılmıştır. Çalışmaya deneyimli bir ortaokul matematik öğretmeni katılmış, veriler öğretmen ile yapılan bire-bir görüşmeler ve denk kesriler konusunun öğretimini içeren ders gözlemleri yoluyla toplanmıştır. Verilerin analizinde içerik analizi kullanılmıştır. Bulgulara dayanarak matematik öğretmeninin üstbilişsel bilgisi ne bildiği, nasıl öğrettiği ve öğretim karar ve eylemleri hakkındaki (neden/ne zaman) bilgi ve farkındalıkları olmak üzere üç ana kategori altında tanımlanmıştır. Öğretmenin “ne bildiği” hakkındaki bilgisi, kendisi, öğrencileri ve genel öğretmen özellikleri ile öğretim sırasında performansına etki edebilecek konu özellikleri (kaynaklar, müfredat, öğretim stratejileri, temsiller ve örnekler) hakkındaki farkındalıklarını içermektedir. Öğretmenin “nasıl öğrettiği” hakkındaki bilgisi, konu ile ilgili tanımların, örnek ve temsillerin nasıl sunulacağı, öğretim yöntem ve stratejilerin nasıl işe koşulacağı, öğretimle ilgili görevlerin nasıl sıralanacağı ve bağlantıların nasıl kurulacağı hakkındaki bilgileri içermektedir. “Öğretim karar ve eylemleri” hakkındaki bilgiler ise öğretmenin öğretimine, öğrenciye ve koşullara ilişkin aldığı kararları, bu kararların nedenleri, zamanlaması ve etkililiği hakkındaki farkındalıklarını içermektedir. Çalışmada tanımlanan üstbilişsel bilgilerin öğretmen bilgisi modellerinde tanımlanan bilgi boyutları ile ilişkili olduğu görülmüştür.
TIME-LAPSE technology in modern embryological practice
Authors: Ishchuk Mariia A. , Lesik Elena A. , Sagurova Yanina M. , Komarova Evgeniia M.
Published: February 2024

This article describes the basic principles of TIME-LAPSE technology. We report the use of this technology in modern embryological practice and compare it with the conventional cultivation system. Herein, we overview modern incubators equipped with the TIME-LAPSE system, including domestic ones, with their advantages and disadvantages listed. The main events of early human embryo development are described and rare events noted, such as abnormal pronucleus formation and disappearance, multinucleation of blastomeres, reverse cleavage, or “direct cleavage” into three blastomeres, which can only be visualized using TIME-LAPSE technology, but not with traditional visual assessment of embryo morphology. The use of artificial intelligence in conjunction with TIME-LAPSE technology for objective assessment and ranking of embryos based on their morphokinetic characteristics is given a thorough consideration. In conclusion, the article presents data on the impact of using technology on the effectiveness of IVF programs. Moreover, we herein describe such unobvious advantages of the TIME-LAPSE system as the ability to train and transfer video data between participants in the IVF protocol.
Disorders of carbohydrate metabolism and candidate genes for the pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome. A literature review
Authors: Abashova Elena I. , Yarmolinskaya Maria I. , Osinovskaya Natalia S.
Published: February 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common heterogeneous disease with metabolic disorders. In the last decade, the study of polycystic ovary syndrome pathogenesis has been associated with the modern development of molecular genetics, transcriptomics, and sequencing methods. Numerous studies have shown that the study of genetic markers and epigenetic changes in metabolic disorders, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome is an important direction in the pathogenesis and etiology of the disease. The aim of this literature review was to describe candidate genes involved in the pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome and associated with disorders of carbohydrate metabolism according to modern domestic and foreign literature over the past five years. The candidate gene data presented were assessed based on the main aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome pathophysiology, namely, metabolic dysfunction, androgen and gonadotropin imbalance, and inflammation. The insulin genes (variable number of tandem repeats), such as INS-VNTR, IRS-1, IRS-2, and INSR, adiponectin and calpain-10 genes, as well as CY1A1, CYP11A1, PON1, DENND1A and TCF7L2 genes are associated with metabolic disorders in polycystic ovary syndrome. Genetic variants of genes involved in regulating the expression and mechanism of action of insulin, as well as its receptors and substrates (IRS-1, IRS-2, INSR), have been suggested as possible factors involved in the development and severity of the clinical and metabolic manifestations of polycystic ovary syndrome. The presented data on PPARγ gene (and its coactivator PGC-1α) expression levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome revealed the presence of PPARγ gene polymorphisms associated with insulin resistance. Thus, the data presented in this review from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and the study of candidate genes showed that numerous pleiotropic effects cause carbohydrate metabolism disorders in polycystic ovary syndrome. The study of genetic markers and epigenetic changes in the development of metabolic disorders, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome is an important direction in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Impact of surgical treatment of endometriomas on ovarian reserve and reproductive outcomes
Authors: Molotkov Arsenii S. , Yarmolinskaya Maria I. , Tsypurdeeva Anna A.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND: Endometriomas are most common during the reproductive years and have an extremely negative impact on ovarian reserve and fertility. In this case, the main method of treatment remains surgery, which inevitably injures healthy ovarian tissue. Assessing the impact of surgical treatment of endometriomas on ovarian reserve and fertility will help to optimize the management of patients of reproductive age with endometrioid cysts.
AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of surgical treatment on ovarian reserve and reproductive outcomes in patients with endometrioid cysts.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed the course of the disease in 289 patients with endometriomas. All patients underwent processing of medical histories and surgical protocols; then, 134 patients were surveyed in the long-term postoperative period (12–24 months after surgery) to gather data on complaints and age of the patients, the size of endometriomas, previous treatment, anti-Müllerian hormone level, and features of reproductive function implementation.
RESULTS: Among patients who had pain before surgery, 52.8% of patients noted a complete absence of pain after surgery; in 26.4% of patients, pain significantly decreased. In 65.8% of patients who had dysmenorrhea before surgery, menstruation became painless. Among patients who complained of dyspareunia before surgical treatment, in 80% of patients, pain during sexual intercourse decreased or disappeared after surgery. After surgical treatment, 119 of 134 surveyed patients (88.8%) received drugs for hormonal therapy for endometriosis. After treatment, pregnancy occurred in 54 out of 82 patients interested in reproductive function. The average anti-Müllerian hormone level before treatment was 3.8 ± 1.8 ng/ml in the age group of 20–34 years and 1.9 ± 1.5 ng/ml in the age group of 35–45 years old; after treatment, 2.7 ± 2.0 ng/ml and 1.0 ± 1.8 ng/ml, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS: Determining anti-Müllerian hormone level is one of the main methods for obtaining an idea of the patient’s ovarian reserve. At a young age and with not implemented reproductive function, it is mandatory to determine the ovarian reserve and consult a reproductive specialist before starting treatment. According to our results, surgical treatment of endometriomas is the most promising for overcoming infertility in young patients with endometriosis.
Recent advances in tuberculosis: A comprehensive review of emerging trends in pathogenesis, diagnostics, treatment, and prevention
Authors: Salim Al-Karawi Abdullah , Kadhim Afraa Ali , Kadum Maha M
Published: February 2024

It is an in-depth analysis of a globally significant infectious disease, tuberculosis (TB). It covers the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of TB with attention to its successes and shortcomings. The review examines this complicated relationship between Mycobacterium tuberculosis and the human host. It describes how outcomes move from latent infection to active disease. An Overview It introduces the current diagnostic methods, therapeutic regimens and preventive strategies; repeated emphasis is placed on targeted interventions and public health efforts. Also, the review covers future efforts in TB research and control that will further improve prevention and treatment. These include vaccines; new drugs (including a quest for novel agents); improved diagnostics (such as more rapid tests or smear-free methods); public health interventions such as policies on occupational exposures to respiratory rusts; integrated care models including continuity of services between Through these points the review illuminates how much can still be accomplished in terms of controlling--and even eliminating entirely--TB, with ramifications for global public health.
MicroRNAs as biomarkers in prostate cancer: A mini review
Authors: Kowsalya R
Published: February 2024

Among men one of the most common cancers identified globally is prostate cancer. Although the serum prostate specific antigen remains important for prognosis and diagnosis, the PSA assay is not highly accurate. In the search for improved minimally invasive methods as a biomarker, the expression patterns of circulating miRNAs have a potential importance and are emerging as a promising candidate as prognostic markers for prostate cancer.
Elevated foetal haemoglobin in tribal sickle cell anaemic patients: Blessing in disgust?
Authors: Trivedi Dhiraj J , Purandare Priyali S
Published: February 2024

Sickle cell anaemia is a molecular disease. WHO recognises it as a global public health problem. In India, it is common among tribal communities. Increased HbS is a culprit. Therapeutic research is focused on maintaining high levels of HbF and decreasing 2,3, BPG to target disease.

To assess the role of naturally compensated haemoglobin variants in tribal Sickle cell anaemic patients of North East Gujarat.

Prospective, analytical, case control study conducted on randomly selected fifty tribal Sickle cell anaemic patients having disease for more than 5 years. Fifty age and sex matched, healthy control subjects.

Each fifty Tribal sickle cell anaemic patients and healthy control were included in the study. Total Haemoglobin level, Sickling test by NESTROFT method and Haemoglobin variants were analysed by alkaline haemoglobin electrophoresis. Frequencies of clinical crises were recorded by oral questioning. The results were analysed using SPSS version 20. Student unpaired t- test was employed to assess the significance of the differences. P-values < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

We observed decreased levels of total haemoglobin, high levels of HbF and HbA2 along with reduced HbA0. Compensatory increase of HbF in tribal SCA patients have shown lower frequency of clinical crises.

Reduced HbA0 in sickle cell anaemia is compensated by naturally elevated HbF and HbA2 in tribal patients which has a beneficial influence on their general health.
Comparison of two parathyroid hormone (pth) assay methods in the monitoring of black african hemodialysis patients in the ivory coast (Maglumi® vs Vidas Biomerieux® Kits)
Authors: Mireille Yao Epse Yapo Carine , Eric Yayo Sagou , Morel Kouacou Kadio , Jean-Louis Konan Konan , Benedicte Kone Dakouri
Published: February 2024

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) testing is recommended once or twice a year to prevent bone complications resulting from chronic kidney disease. However, its interpretation is subject to many factors, including the generation of the PTH test used. For this reason, it is recommended that each laboratory establish its own PTH Upper Limit of Normality (ULN). In order to guarantee optimal management of hemodialysis patients in the public sector in Côte d'Ivoire (West Africa), it proved important to compare the diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism made using two platforms used in the laboratory in charge of monitoring these patients: PTH VIDAS® (3rd Generation) and PTH MAGLUMI® (2nd Generation).

This was a cross-sectional study of 65 haemodialysis patients in Abidjan. PTH determinations were performed simultaneously on VIDAS® and MAGLUMI® platforms. The results obtained were interpreted on the basis of PTH threshold values pre-established in the laboratory.

86.15% of patients had concordant diagnoses on both platforms, compared with 13.85% with discordant diagnoses. Statistical analysis of these results showed a non-statistically significant difference.

: The limitation posed by differences in PTH concentration given by different platforms can be circumvented by using PTH ULN stablished for each platform for a given population. Conclusion: The diagnoses made by the two platforms are thus superimposable using their respective PTH ULN.
A mandatory practice in type 2 diabetes mellitus to maintain quality of life
Authors: Shrestha Sadikshya , Shrestha Pradeep Krishna , Yadav Binod Kumar
Published: February 2024

Nepalese owing to modern lifestyle and processed food are racially at an elevated risk of acquiring central obesity-related insulin resistance (IR) and thus Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD). Low birth weight in utero and later becoming obese risks the development of T2DM.

In a total of eighty-four newly diagnosed treatment-naive Nepalese T2DMs, incidence of IR, percentage beta-cell function (%BCF) and percentage insulin sensitivity (%IS) were determined using Homeostatic Model Assessment 2 (HOMA2-IR). Association of HOMA2-IR with albuminuria, kidney function, hs-CRP, fatty liver, fatty pancreas, several anthropometric and biochemical parameters were analyzed. Among the eighty-four T2DMs, fifty-four agreeing regular follow-ups were prescribed a low-carbohydrate diet (<130gm/day). At 6 months, their glycemic controls were monitored.

From 84 newly diagnosed T2DMs, 56 (66.7%) were insulin resistant and 28(33.3%) insulin-sensitive on HOMA2-IR. There was a significant association of HOMA2-IR with albuminuria and declining kidney function (p=0.006 and 0.034 respectively) and most of them were at reversible stages. Waist circumference (WC), waist-hip ratio (WHR), lipid profile ratios, fatty liver and fatty pancreas were elucidated as potential markers for IR. The IS group (ISG) had significantly inadequate %BCF (p=0.001) but high %IS (p<0.001) has healthier WHR (p=0.001) and lipid profile ratios which are opposite to IR group (IRG). 13 ISG had raised hs-CRP and 15 normal and 21 IRG had normal hs-CRP and 35 raised. At 6 months, the IRG achieved significantly better postprandial glycemic goals (p=0.04) and significant improvement in WC and WHR (p=0.008 and 0.03 respectively) with a low-carbohydrate diet as compared to ISG.

Severe insulin resistance and IR-associated DKD, fatty liver and fatty pancreas are highly prevalent from the time of diagnosis of T2DM in the Nepalese population. Thus inspecting for IR and its consequences mandatorily at diagnosis and applying precision therapies like adjustments in the quality and quantity of staple food carbohydrates significantly improves IR-related parameters and glycemia.
Emerging need of molecular profiling in hepatobiliary cancer
Authors: Manish Abhinav , Badola Amit
Published: February 2024

: Gallbladder cancer is a rare malignancy but represents almost 50% of all biliary tract cancer. Biliary cancers are highly fatal malignancies with a 5-year survival rate of approximately 20%. The prognosis of gallbladder cancer is poor due to the aggressive tumor biology, late presentation, complicated anatomic position, and advanced stage at diagnosis.  Locally advanced and metastatic disease treatment is with palliative chemotherapy. Alarming sign of gallbladder cancer is overall decreased in incidence in older patients but increased in the younger population. So many mutations have been reported for the gall bladder cancer till date.

: A prospective observational study was conducted over a period of 1 year at Asian Institute of Medical Sciences Faridabad which includes hepatobiliary carcinoma patients who are at stage III and stage IV of cancer. After getting the consent formalin fixed paraffin embedded biopsy samples, and 5 ml serum sample was collected in serum separator tube (SST). A whole genome sequencing was performed using Illumina HiSEQ, Illumina (NGS) technology, allows for high-throughput sequencing of DNA and RNA. Illumina's NGS is based on "sequencing by Synthesis" to detect the mutations.

: Most common mutation found was in the P53 gene. TP53 (p.Arg175His), TP53 (p.Arg306Ter), TP53 (p.Cys238Tyr), TP53 (p.Leu43Ter), TP53 (p.Glu339Ter), TP53 (p.Pro190Leu).

Mutations in the TP53 gene are a common feature of carcinoma of the gallbladder, and are associated with a more aggressive tumor phenotype, resistance to chemotherapy, and poorer overall survival.
Expanding the screening of newborns for detecting inborn errors in metabolism using next generation sequencing following mass spectrometry/immunoassay
Authors: Christy Alap Lukiyas , Das Eatu , Surana Jasmin , Padhye Pradnya , Shirodkar Kedar , Dixit Rakhi Bajpai , Chadha Kirti
Published: February 2024

Inborn errors of metabolism are rare inherited disorders which leads to significant morbidity and mortality in patients. Very few studies have been conducted in India to assess prevalence of Inborn Errors of Metabolism (IEM) in newborns. We proposed testing by TMS/TR-FIA followed by NGS. This pilot study would be one of the ﬁrst expanded NBS studies in India.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of IEM in newborns based on the samples received at Metropolis Global Reference Lab, India. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was done as a conﬁrmational analysis for patients tested presumptive positive on Newborn screening using Tandem Mass spectrometry (TMS) and Time-resolved fluoroimmunoassay (TR-FIA).

  Two years retrospective study was conducted based on incidences of IEM using TMS and TR-FIA. NGS testing was performed on presumptive positive newborns for cystic fibrosis (CF), galactosemia and urea cycle disorder/ organic academia (UCD /OA) who had undergone NBS by TMS and TR-FIA.

Highestprevalence of 1.98% & 1.58% was detected for G6PD and TSH respectively by TR-FIA. Prevalence of AA disorders (3.20%), OA (1.60%) and UCD (1.43%) was observed to be the highest amongst the diseases detected by TMS. Presumptive positive case of Argininemia and Cystic Fibrosis were found to be concordant with NGS. Out of three presumptive positive cases, one presumptive positive case of CF and two of galactose were found discordant.

  Our prevalence study showed similarities to the prevalence reports published by other Asian countries. Expanded NBS program can be improved by including NGS as a first follow-up test after detection of abnormal metabolites in DBS. This approach will help in reducing the encumbrance of false-positive as well as false-negative cases. Our study will be influential in conducting more prospective studies and routine implementation of NGS-based analysis in NBS in India.
Antibiotic resistance of infectious agents associated with prior hospitalization
Authors: Perfileva Daria Yu. , Miroshnichenko Alexander G. , Kulikov Evgeny S. , Perfilev Vyacheslav Yu. , Boykov Vadim A. , Nesterovich Sofia V.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: One of the frequent causes of re-hospitalization is infectious complications due to previous colonization of patient loci by microorganisms circulating in the hospital environment. In the conditions of real clinical practice among hospital-acquired infections (HAI), it is advisable to distinguish a special group of diseases – infections associated with previous hospitalization (IPAH). Of particular scientific interest is the study of the antibiotic resistance profile of IPAH pathogens in order to determine the further strategy of empirical antibiotic therapy.

Materials and Methods: A two-center descriptive study was conducted in Tomsk region. We analyzed 170 cases of IPAH according to the medical records of patients receiving medical care in inpatient settings (form N 003/u) in the period from 2019 to 2023. Identification of microorganisms was carried out by classical bacteriological method.

Results and Discussion: Gram-negative bacteria (95.3%) predominated in the etiology of pneumonia associated with prior hospitalization. Among Gram-negative microorganisms, the most frequent were K. pneumoniae, P. aeroginosa and K. oxytoca. Representatives of the families Enterobacteriaceae (48.2%), Staphylococcaceae (28.9%) and Enterococcaceae (10.8%) predominated in the etiology of surgical infection associated with previous hospitalization. In the species structure, the key pathogens were K. pneumoniae, S. aureus and E. coli. IPAH pathogens were characterized by an unfavorable resistance profile.

Conclusion: Despite the fact that the etiological structure and antibiotic resistance profile of IPAH are similar to those of classical nosocomial infections, IPAH has important features that should certainly be taken into account when organizing medical care for this cohort of patients.
The Role of Biotechnology in Latest Therapeutic Approaches for Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Hajivalizadeh Sepideh , Akhondzadeh Shahin
Published: February 2024

The Article Abstract is not available.
Factor VIII as a Novel Biomarker for Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Therapy Prediction in Human Cancer and Other Disorders
Authors: Khalilian Sheyda , Mohajer Zahra , Ghafouri-Fard Soudeh
Published: February 2024

Coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) is an essential cofactor in the coagulation cascade, encoded by the F8 gene on the long arm of chromosome X (Xq28). FVIII is normally circulated in complex with Von Willebrand factor (VWF) and has relevant emerging extracoagulative functions. Dysregulation of FVIII is associated with tumor progression, and could be used as a novel biomarker for tumor screening and monitoring. In breast cancer, bladder cancer, colorectal carcinoma, esophageal carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma and lung cancer, F8 is regarded as an oncogene. In coronary heart disease, hemophilia A and liver disease, F8 dysregulation has been recognized as a potential biomarker for disease diagnosis and prognosis. However, the basis of these differential expression levels remains to be understood. In this review, which is a mixture of literature review and bioinformatics analysis we described the biological functions and characteristics of FVIII, and also its expression level in non-malignant disorders and various cancers.
The Protective Effect of Crocin on Rat Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Exposed to Aluminum Chloride as an Endocrine Disruptor
Authors: Amini Elaheh , Baharvand Zahra , Niknejad Azadeh , Tabari Yasaman , Shemshadi Sahel
Published: February 2024

Background: Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) have the ability to self-renew and proliferate which gives them healing properties in various tissues. Aluminium chloride (AlCl3) is a chemical compound with harmful effects on health; oxidative stress caused by Aluminium has been reported previously. Crocin, a major component of Crocus sativus (saffron), has antioxidant properties and has shown therapeutic potential. Researchers have been looking for ways to reduce the harmful effects of AlCl3.
Methods: To investigate whether crocin can reduce AlCl3 cytotoxicity, rat Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BM-MSCs) were isolated, cultured and divided into four experimental groups. The first group was the control, which was untreated cells. The second and third groups were treated with crocin (50, 100, 250, 500 µM) and AlCl3 (20, 25, 30 mM) for 24 hr. The fourth group was pre-treated with crocin (250, 500 µM) for 24 hr and then treated with AlCl3 (20 mM) overnight. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay. Mineralization was evaluated by alizarin red staining. Sox-2 and E-cadherin expression were measured using real-time PCR.
Results: The results showed that AlCl3 caused cytotoxicity on BM-MSCs and decreased the mRNA expression of Sox-2 and E-cadherin, which are important for the maintenance of self-renewal and proliferation of BM-MSCs. In contrast, crocin protected the self-renewal characteristic of BM-MSCs by increasing Sox-2 expression and also preserved the proliferative effects on BM-MSCs by upregulating E-cadherin expression (***p≤0.001).
Conclusion: Overall, the study suggests that crocin can protect BM-MSCs from AlCl3-induced cytotoxicity by upregulate Sox-2 expression and E-cadherin expression. This suggests that crocin may be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of AlCl3-induced toxicity.
The Protective Effect of N-acetylcysteine against Deltamethrin-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Mice
Authors: Ameri Ali , Rahmati Alireza , Soroushfar Shadi , Lalehzari Mehdi , Dehghani Tahereh , Haghi-Aminjan Hamed , Shamseddin Jebreil , Omidi Mahmoud
Published: February 2024

Background: Exposure to pesticides is of concern to public health officials worldwide. Deltamethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid pesticide which is widely used in agriculture and veterinary medicine. Deltamethrin poisoning is always one of the concerns in medical centers due to the deltamethrin induced hepatotoxicity. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) against deltamethrin induced hepatotoxicity in mice
Methods: A total of 40 BALB/c male mice were randomly divided into four groups; the first group was used as a control (0.5 ml normal saline); Groups 2-4 were treated with NAC [160 mg/kg Body Weight (BW)], deltamethrin (50 mg/kg BW), and NAC plus deltamethrin. At 1 and 24 hr after treatment, the animals were sacrificed and blood and liver samples were obtained for analysis and the liver/body ration, hepatic enzymes as Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alanine Transaminase (ALT), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), Glutathione (GSH) content and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) level were measured. For comparison between more than two experimental groups, one-way ANOVA following Tukey test was used by SPSS software.
Results: The deltamethrin significantly increased AST, ALT, ALP, and the level of ROS level at the end of 1 and 24 hr after treatment; while the LDH level and GSH content were decreased. Mice in the deltamethrin treated group had a higher liver/body weight ratio than in other treated groups after 24 hr. On the other hand, NAC in combination with deltamethrin significantly reduced the activities of AST, ALT, ALP, and increased GSH levels.
Conclusion: This study demonstrated that NAC has a hepatoprotective role against deltamethrin-induced toxicity.
A Simple High Yield Technique for Isolation of Wharton's Jelly-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell
Authors: Niknam Bahare , Azizsoltani Arezou , Heidari Neda , Tokhanbigli Samaneh , Alavifard Helia , Haji Valili Mahsa , Amani Davar , Aghdaei Hamid Asadzadeh , Hashemi Seyed Mahmoud , Baghaei Kaveh
Published: February 2024

Background: The isolation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) from various tissues is possible, with the umbilical cord emerging as a competitive alternative to bone marrow. In order to fulfill the demands of cell therapy, it is essential to generate stem cells on a clinical scale while minimizing time, cost, and contamination. Here is a simple and effective protocol for isolating MSC from Wharton's Jelly (WJ-MSC) using the explant method with various supplements.
Methods: Utilizing the explant method, small fragments of Wharton's jelly from the human umbilical cord were cultured in a flask. The multipotency of the isolated cells, were confirmed by their differentiation ability to osteocyte and adipocyte. Additionally, the immunophenotyping of WJ-MSCs showed positive expression of CD73, CD90, and CD105, while remaining negative for hematopoietic markers CD34 and CD45, meeting the criteria for WJ-MSC identification. Following that, to evaluate cells' proliferative capacity, various supplements, including basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (bFGF), Non-Essential amino acids (NEA), and L-Glutamine (L-Gln) were added to either alpha-Minimal Essential Medium (α-MEM) or Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium-F12 (DMEM-F12), as the basic culture media.
Results: WJ-MSCs isolated by the explant method were removed from the tissue after seven days and transferred to the culture medium. These cells differentiated into adipocyte and osteocyte lineages, expressing CD73, CD90, and CD105 positively and CD34 and CD45 negatively. The results revealed that addition of bFGF to α-MEM or DMEM-F12 media significantly increased the proliferation of MSCs when compared to the control group. However, there were no significant differences observed when NEA or L-Gln were added.
Conclusion: Although bFGF considerably enhances cell proliferation, our study de-monstrates that MSCs can grow and expand when properly prepared Wharton's jelly tissues of the human umbilical cord.
Simple Determination of Bosentan in Plasma Samples by Reversed-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Khalighi Zahra , Ghaneialvar Hori , Soltani Armin , Khorshidi Ali , Karimi Elahe , Moayeri Ardeshir , Abbasi Naser , Tahmasebi Masoumeh , Aidy Ali
Published: February 2024

Background: In order to measure the plasma levels of Losartan and Bosentan, a sensitive Reverse Phase-High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) technique was developed.
Methods: To compare bioavailability, the Area Under the Curve (AUC), peak plasma concentration (Cmax), and time to Cmax (Tmax) were employed. The standard curve (150-2400 ng/ml) was linear (R2=0.999), relative errors were between 2.4 to 10.05% and the coefficient of variation (CV%) ranged from 1.52 to 10.88. A single dosage (test and reference) was used for the in vivo investigation, which involved 16 healthy individuals.
Results: The AUC0-48, AUC0-, Cmax, and Tmax of the test and reference had no statistically significant differences. The Cmax and 95% confidence intervals of the ratio of Cmax of the two formulations were 0.93-0.96 and 97.6-135%, respectively.
Conclusion: Therefore, it was established that generic Bosentan was equivalent to Bosentan from Actelion and that both medications could be regarded as equally effective in clinical settings. The blood level of Bosentan could be measured using this straightforward procedure in all hospital laboratories.
Poultry Gastrointestinal-derived Lactic Acid Bacteria (pGIT-d-LAB) Inhibit Multiple Antibiotics Resistance Bacterial and Fungal Pathogens
Authors: Adeniyi Bolanle , Adesuyi Abimbola , Ayeni Funmilola , Ogunbanwo Temitope , Agidigbi Taiwo
Published: February 2024

Background: To develop a probiotic formulation for poultry feed, a few poultry gastrointestinal derived lactic acid bacteria (pGIT-d-LAB) were isolated from chicken intestinal specimens and in vitro experiment was performed to evaluate their efficacy as potential probiotic candidate.
Methods: A total of 6 strains of LAB: Lactobacillus brevis (L. brevis), Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus), Lactobacillus casei (L. casei), Pediococci spp, Lactobacillus fermentum (L. fermentum) and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) were isolated and cultured for collection of Cell Free Supernatant (CFS). CFS collected was tested against pathogenic bacterial isolated from chicken feces as well as prevalent fungal pathogens, utilizing agar-well diffusion techniques. A preliminary investigation into the susceptibility of the pathogens to diverse antibiotics and antifungal drugs was conducted. Bacterial pathogens exhibiting resistance to a minimum of three classes of antibiotics were subsequently identified for pGIT-d-LAB CFS screening.
Results: The observed results revealed that the CFS derived from the isolates exhibited varying degrees of growth inhibition against different pathogens. Among the tested pGIT-d-LAB isolates, L. acidophilus demonstrated the most prominent zone of inhibition, measuring 18 mm against Klebsiella pneumoniae ZTAC 1233. Notably, Citrobacter diversus ZTAC 1255 showed resistance to all tested pGIT-d-LAB. Quantification of the metabolites produced was performed, and peak production levels was determined. L. acidophilus produced the highest amount of lactic acid (1.789g/l), Pediococci spp. produced the highest amount of diacetyl and H202 (1.918g/l) (0.0025g/l) at 48 hr peak values respectively.
Conclusion: The test isolates are potential probiotic candidates for controlling pathogens in poultry.
Investigating the Effects of HMGB1 Overexpression on Colorectal Cancer Cell Migration via Oncolytic Herpes simplex Virus Type 1 (oHSV-1)
Authors: Shayan Sara , Arashkia Arash , Bahramali Golnaz , Azadmanesh Kayhan
Published: February 2024

Background: Colorectal Cancer (CRC) represents a significant global health challenge, and its progression, resistance to therapy, and metastasis are strongly influenced by the tumor microenvironment, including factors like hypoxia. This study explores the impact of High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1) overexpression on CRC cell migration, while identifying potential genes associated with this process.
Methods: To explore this, we developed oncolytic virotherapy, resulting in HSV-HMGB1, an oncolytic Herpes simplex virus that expresses HMGB1. HMGB1 is known its role in cancer progression, particularly in the context of cancer cell migration.
Results: Contrary to expectations, our scratch assays indicated that HSV-HMGB1 did not significantly induce migration in CRC cells, suggesting that HMGB1 might not directly contribute to this process. Employing microarray analysis, we investigated gene expression changes linked to CRC cell migration, leading to construction of a Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network. This network revealed the presence of hub proteins, including as NDRG1, LGALS1, and ANGPTL4, which are recognized for their roles in cancer cell migration. The differential expression of these genes under hypoxic con-ditions was further validated using quantitative RT-PCR, aligning with the findings from our microarray data. 
Conclusion: Our findings emphasize the complex regulation of CRC cell migration, and provides valuable insights into potential molecular mechanisms and pathways. These findings have implications for further research into cancer progression and the development of therapeutic strategies.