bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of the EdcR Estrogen-Dependent Repressor in Caenibius tardaugens NBRC 16725: Construction of a Cellular Estradiol Biosensor
Authors: Ibero Juan , Galán Beatriz , García José L.
Published: November 2021

In this work, Caenibius tardaugens NBRC 16725 (strain ARI-1) (formerly Novosphingobium tardaugens) was isolated due to its capacity to mineralize estrogenic endocrine disruptors. Its genome encodes the edc genes cluster responsible for the degradation of 17β-estradiol, consisting of two putative operons (OpA and OpB) encoding the enzymes of the upper degradation pathway. Inside the edc cluster, we identified the edcR gene encoding a TetR-like protein. Genetic studies carried out with C. tardaugens mutants demonstrated that EdcR represses the promoters that control the expression of the two operons. These genetic analyses have also shown that 17β-estradiol and estrone, the second intermediate of the degradation pathway, are the true effectors of EdcR. This regulatory system has been heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli, foreseeing its use to detect estrogens in environmental samples. Genome comparisons have identified a similar regulatory system in the edc cluster of Altererythrobacter estronivorus MHB5, suggesting that this regulatory arrangement has been horizontally transferred to other bacteria.
X-Linked Osteogenesis Imperfecta Possibly Caused by a Novel Variant in PLS3
Authors: Brlek Petar , Antičević Darko , Molnar Vilim , Matišić Vid , Robinson Kristina , Aradhya Swaroop , Krpan Dalibor , Primorac Dragan
Published: November 2021

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) represents a complex spectrum of genetic bone diseases that occur primarily due to mutations and deletions of the COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes. Recent molecular studies of the network of signaling pathways have contributed to a better understanding of bone remodeling and the pathogenesis of OI caused by mutations in many other genes associated with normal bone mineralization. In this paper, a case of a rare X-linked variant of OI with a change in the gene encoding plastin 3—a protein important for the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, is presented. A 16-year-old patient developed ten bone fractures caused by minor trauma or injury, including a compression fracture of the second lumbar vertebra during his lifetime. Next-generation sequencing analysis did not show pathologically relevant deviations in the COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes. Targeted gene analyses (Skeletal disorder panel) of the patient, his father, mother and sister were then performed, detecting variants of uncertain significance (VUS) for genes PLS3, FN1 and COL11A2. A variant in the PLS3 gene were identified in the patient, his mother and sister. Since the PLS3 gene is located on the X chromosome, the mother and sister showed no signs of the disease. Although the variant in the PLS3 gene (c.685G>A (p.Gly229Arg)) has not yet been described in the literature, nor is its pathogenicity known, clinical findings combined with genetic testing showed that this variant may explain the cause of X-linked OI in our patient. This rare case of the PLS3 variant of X-linked OI might point to a novel target for personalized therapy in patients with this severe disease.
A Genome-Wide Identification Study Reveals That HmoCYP76AD1, HmoDODAα1 and HmocDOPA5GT Involved in Betalain Biosynthesis in Hylocereus
Authors: Hua Qingzhu , Chen Canbin , Xie Fangfang , Zhang Zhike , Zhang Rong , Zhao Jietang , Hu Guibing , Qin Yonghua
Published: November 2021

Betalains are water-soluble nitrogen-containing pigments with multiple bioactivities. Pitayas are the only at large-scale commercially grown fruit containing abundant betalains for consumers. Currently, the key genes involved in betalain biosynthesis remain to be fully elucidated. Moreover, genome-wide analyses of these genes in betalain biosynthesis are not available in betalain-producing plant species. In this study, totally 53 genes related to betalain biosynthesis were identified from the genome data of Hylocereus undatus. Four candidate genes i.e., one cytochrome P-450 R gene (HmoCYP76AD1), two L-DOPA 4,5-dioxygenase genes (HmoDODAα1 and HmoDODAα2), and one cyclo-DOPA 5-O glucosyltransferase gene (HmocDOPA5GT) were initially screened according to bioinformatics and qRT-PCR analyses. Silencing HmoCYP76AD1, HmoDODAα1, HmoDODAα2 or HmocDOPA5GT resulted in loss of red pigment. HmoDODAα1 displayed a high level of L-DOPA 4,5-dioxygenase activity to produce betalamic acid and formed yellow betaxanthin. Co-expression of HmoCYP76AD1, HmoDODAα1 and HmocDOPA5GT in Nicotiana benthamiana and yeast resulted in high abundance of betalain pigments with a red color. These results suggested that HmoCYP76AD1, HmoDODAα1, and HmocDOPA5GT play key roles in betalain biosynthesis in Hylocereus. The results of the present study provide novel genes for molecular breeding programs of pitaya.
Thermodynamic and Kinetic Modelling of Scales Formation at the Soultz-sous-Forêts Geothermal Power Plant
Authors: Kunan Pierce , Ravier Guillaume , Dalmais Eléonore , Ducousso Marion , Cezac Pierre
Published: November 2021

Geothermal energy has been a subject of great interest since the 1990s in the Upper Rhine Graben (URG), where the first European Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) pilot site has been developed, in Soultz-sous-Forêts (SsF), France. Several studies have already been conducted on scales occurring at the reinjection side at the geothermal plants located in the URG. It has been observed that the composition of the scales changes as chemical treatment is applied to inhibit metal sulfate. The purpose of this study was to model the scaling phenomenon occurring in the surface pipes and the heat exchangers at the SsF geothermal plant. PhreeqC, a geochemical modelling software, was used to reproduce the scaling observations in the geothermal plant during exploitation. A suitable database was chosen based on the availability of chemical elements, minerals, and gas. A thermodynamic model and a kinetic model were proposed for modelling the scaling phenomenon. The thermodynamic model gave insight on possible minerals precipitated while the kinetic model, after modifying the initial rates equation, produced results that were close to the expected scale composition at the SsF geothermal plant. Additional laboratory studies on the kinetics of the scales are proposed to complement the current model.
Emotional Contagion in the Online Depression Community
Authors: Tang Jingyun , Yu Guang , Yao Xiaoxu
Published: November 2021

Negative emotions are prevalent in the online depression community (ODC), which potentially puts members at risk, according to the theory of emotional contagion. However, emotional contagion in the ODC has not been confirmed. The generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to verify the extent of emotional contagion using data from 1548 sample users in China’s popular ODC. During interaction, the emotional themes were analyzed according to language use. The diurnal patterns of the interaction behaviors were also analyzed. We identified the susceptible groups and analyzed their characteristics. The results confirmed the occurrence of emotional contagion in ODC, that is, the extent to which the user’s emotion was affected by the received emotion. Our study also found that when positive emotional contagion occurred, the replies contained more hopefulness, and when negative emotional contagion occurred, the replies contained more hopelessness and fear. Second, positive emotions were easier to spread, and people with higher activity in ODC were more susceptible. In addition, nighttime was an active period for user interaction. The results can help community managers and support groups take measures to promote the spread of positive emotions and reduce the spread of negative emotions.
Age of Onset and Its Related Factors in Cocaine or Methamphetamine Use in Adults from the United States: Results from NHANES 2005–2018
Authors: Guerin Alexandre , Kim Jee
Published: November 2021

Cocaine and methamphetamine are widely used illicit psychostimulants worldwide, with steadily increasing global markets that may impact on the frequency of use. Importantly, their use typically begins in youth. This is a particular concern because there is a link between the early age of first substance use and severity of substance use disorder later in life. The aim of the present study was therefore to investigate trends in prevalence, frequency, and age of onset of cocaine or methamphetamine use between 2005 and 2018 in the United States, using the nationally representative NHANES datasets. Factors associated with the ages of cocaine or methamphetamine use onset were also identified. From 2005 to 2018, prevalence and frequencies of cocaine or methamphetamine use increased, while age of onset remained relatively stable (~20 years of age). Annual household income, use of other substances, and intravenous drug use were identified as factors associated with early onset cocaine or methamphetamine use. These factors have important implications toward developing new prevention programs to reduce psychostimulant use.
Psychological Capital and Family Satisfaction among Employees: Do Occupational Stressors Moderate the Relationship?
Authors: Siu Oi-Ling , Kong Qianting , Ng Ting-Kin
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has created more occupational stressors, particularly work–family interface issues. The purpose of this study was to investigate the moderating role of occupational stressors in the relationship between a personal resource (psychological capital) and family satisfaction. A cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample of 787 employees (367 males, 420 females) from the Greater Bay Area of China between October and November 2020. Participants completed an online survey which included the Chinese version of the Psychological Capital Questionnaire, measures of occupational stressors from the Work Stress Management DIY Kit and a measure of family satisfaction. Latent moderated structural equation modeling revealed that family satisfaction was positively associated with psychological capital and negatively associated with occupational stressors. Furthermore, occupational stressors weakened the positive association between psychological capital and family satisfaction. These findings provided empirical evidence for the work–home resources model and may suggest that it would be beneficial to boost psychological capital and reduce occupational stressors of employees.
Subjective Experience of Speech Depending on the Acoustic Treatment in an Ordinary Room
Authors: Arvidsson Emma , Nilsson Erling , Bard-Hagberg Delphine , Karlsson Ola J. I.
Published: November 2021

In environments such as classrooms and offices, complex tasks are performed. A satisfactory acoustic environment is critical for the performance of such tasks. To ensure a good acoustic environment, the right acoustic treatment must be used. The relation between different room acoustic treatments and how they affect speech perception in these types of rooms is not yet fully understood. In this study, speech perception was evaluated for three different configurations using absorbers and diffusers. Twenty-nine participants reported on their subjective experience of speech in respect of different configurations in different positions in a room. They judged sound quality and attributes related to speech perception. In addition, the jury members ranked the different acoustic environments. The subjective experience was related to the different room acoustic treatments and the room acoustic parameters of speech clarity, reverberation time and sound strength. It was found that people, on average, rated treatments with a high degree of absorption as best. This configuration had the highest speech clarity value and lowest values for reverberation time and sound strength. The perceived sound quality could be correlated to speech clarity, while attributes related to speech perception had the strongest association with reverberation time.
Psychological Distress and Adolescents’ Cyberbullying under Floods and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Parent–Child Relationships and Negotiable Fate as Moderators
Authors: Zhang Yuchi , Xu Chengpei , Dai Hanyue , Jia Xiaoyu
Published: November 2021

Since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), adolescents in 70 countries have suffered the COVID-19 pandemic and flood disasters simultaneously. Although antecedent cyberbullying variables have attracted significant research attention, the effects of psychological distress and the potential mechanisms of cyberbullying among adolescents under multiple disasters remains unclear. Based on social-ecological system theory, this study examines the moderating effects of parent–child relationships and the negotiable fate on the relationship between psychological distress and cyberbullying. A total of 1204 middle school students (52.4% boys) who suffered from floods and the COVID-19 pandemic from Zhengzhou City, China, are the participants. The results reveal that psychological distress was positively related to adolescent cyberbullying during a disaster. Parent–child relationships and negotiable fate significantly moderate the relationship between psychological distress and cyberbullying. Specifically, high parent–child relationships and a high negotiable fate could protect adolescents from the negative effects of psychological distress of cyberbullying. For adolescents with low or high parent–child relationships and low negotiable fate, the links between psychological distress and cyberbullying are stronger. These findings underline the significance of considering the interaction of psychological distress, parent–child relationships, and negotiable fate when examining adolescents’ cyberbullying during disasters.
A Rapid Realist Review of Effective Mental Health Interventions for Individuals with Chronic Physical Health Conditions during the COVID-19 Pandemic Using a Systems-Level Mental Health Promotion Framework
Authors: Stabler Lorna , MacPhee Maura , Collins Benjamin , Carroll Simon , Davison Karen , Thakkar Vidhi , Fuller-Thomson Esme , Lin Shen (Lamson) , Hey Brandon
Published: November 2021

The 2020 global outbreak of COVID-19 exposed and heightened threats to mental health across societies. Research has indicated that individuals with chronic physical health conditions are at high risk for suffering from severe COVID-19 illness and from the adverse consequences of public health responses to COVID-19, such as social isolation. This paper reports on the findings of a rapid realist review conducted alongside a scoping review to explore contextual factors and underlying mechanisms or drivers associated with effective mental health interventions within and across macro–meso–micro systems levels for individuals with chronic physical health conditions. This rapid realist review extracted 14 qualified studies across 11 countries and identified four key mechanisms from COVID-19 literature—trust, social connectedness, accountability, and resilience. These mechanisms are discussed in relation to contextual factors and outcomes reported in the COVID literature. Realist reviews include iterative searches to refine their program theories and context–mechanism–outcome explanations. A purposive search of pre-COVID realist reviews on the study topic was undertaken, looking for evidence of the robustness of these mechanisms. There were differences in some of the pre-COVID mechanisms due to contextual factors. Importantly, an additional mechanism—power-sharing—was highlighted in the pre-COVID literature, but absent in the COVID literature. Pre-existing realist reviews were used to identify potential substantive theories and models associated with key mechanisms. Based on the overall findings, implications are provided for mental health promotion policy, practice, and research.
Breast Cancer Screening in Semi-Rural Malaysia: Utilisation and Barriers
Authors: Mohan Devi , Su Tin Tin , Donnelly Michael , Hoe Wilfred Mok Kok , Schliemann Désirée , Tan Min Min , Reidpath Daniel , Taib Nur Aishah , Allotey Pascale
Published: November 2021

Breast cancer (BC) is the commonest cancer in Malaysia. Delayed diagnosis is a significant cause of BC mortality in the country. Early diagnosis and screening are vital strategies in mortality reduction. This study assessed the level of utilisation and barriers for breast self-examination (BSE), clinical breast examination (CBE) and mammogram in a semi-rural population in Malaysia and compared these across the different ethnic groups. This cross-sectional study was conducted among women aged 40 years and above, embedded within a health and demographic surveillance site (HDSS) in Segamat, Malaysia. Trained data collectors collected data on screening and barriers during home visits. Study participants (n = 250) were aged 59.4 ± 10.9 years and represented Malaysia’s three major ethnic groups. Practice of regular BSE, CBE uptake (ever) and mammogram (ever) was 23.2%, 36% and 22.4%, respectively. Regular BSE practice was highest in the Malay ethnic group and least among the Chinese. Regular CBE was very low in all ethnic groups (<5%). Mammogram uptake was highest among Chinese (34.4%), followed by Indians (30.4%) and Malays (16.6%). After adjusting for other socio-demographic variables, Malay ethnicity was positively associated with regular BSE (adjusted OR = 5.26, 95% CI 2.05, 13.50) and negatively associated with having had a mammogram (adjusted OR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.15, 0.57). Lower education was negatively associated (adjusted OR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.17, 0.74) with mammogram attendance (ever). Emotional and financial barriers were the most reported types of barriers, specifically, fear of diagnosis (74.8%), cost of diagnosis (69.6%) and fear of losing a breast (66.4%). Malay women more commonly reported most barriers compared to other ethnic groups. Screening uptake was low among semi-rural women in Malaysia. Implementing culturally appropriate interventions that consider ethnic differences is crucial to empowering women to engage in BC screening initiatives in these communities.
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity in Patients Exposed to Moisture Damage at Work and in General Working-Age Population—The SAMDAW Study
Authors: Nynäs Pia , Vilpas Sarkku , Kankare Elina , Karjalainen Jussi , Lehtimäki Lauri , Numminen Jura , Tikkakoski Antti , Kleemola Leenamaija , Huhtala Heini , Uitti Jukka
Published: November 2021

A considerable proportion of patients having respiratory tract or voice symptoms associated with workplace moisture damage (MD) could have multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS). MCS is characterized by symptoms of different organ systems in association with low-level chemical exposure. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of MCS among patients referred to secondary health care because of respiratory or voice symptoms associated with workplace MD compared to the general working-age population. Using three subscales of the QEESI© questionnaire, we assessed MCS in the study patients and 1500 controls in the same district randomly selected from the Finnish Population Information System. Study patients had significantly more often high scores in chemical intolerance (39% vs. 23%, p = 0.001), symptom severity (60% vs. 27%, p < 0.001), and life impact subscales (53% vs. 20%, p < 0.001). Asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis, laryngeal problems, and atopy were not associated with the presence of MCS. MCS is common among patients referred to secondary health care with respiratory tract and/or voice symptoms associated with workplace MD, and it considerably affects their everyday life. MCS should be considered as a possible explanatory factor for MD-associated symptoms.
Health Inequalities in the Diverse World of Self-Employment: A Swedish National Cohort Study
Authors: Gauffin Karl , Dunlavy Andrea
Published: November 2021

With labor being a central social determinant of health, there is an increasing need to investigate health inequalities within the heterogenous and growing population in self-employment. This study aimed to longitudinally investigate the relationship between income level, self-employment status and multiple work-related health indicators in a Swedish national cohort (n = 3,530,309). The study investigated the relationship between self-employment status and health outcomes later in life. All poor health outcomes, with the exception of alcohol-related disorders, were more common in the self-employed population, compared to the group in regular employment. The income gradient, however, was more pronounced in the group with regular employment than the groups in self-employment. The study found clear connections between low income and poor health in all employment groups, but the gradient was more pronounced in the group in regular employment. This suggests that income has a weaker connection to other types of health promoting resources in the self-employed population. Potentially, lacking social and public support could make it difficult for unhealthy individuals to maintain low-income self-employment over a longer time period.
Examining the Influence of Social Interactions and Community Resources on Caregivers’ Burden in Stroke Settings: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Koh Yen Sin , Koh Gerald Choon-Huat , Matchar David Bruce , Hong Song-Iee , Tai Bee Choo
Published: November 2021

Since the introduction of the integrated care model, understanding how social interactions and community resources can alleviate caregivers’ burden is vital to minimizing negative patients’ outcomes. This study (n = 214) examined the associations between these factors and caregivers’ burden in stroke settings. It used 3-month and 1-year post-stroke data collected from five tertiary hospitals. Subjective and objective caregivers’ burdens were measured using Zarit burden interview and Oberst caregiving burden scale respectively. The independent variables examined were quality of care relationship, care management strategies for managing patients’ behaviour, family caregiving conflict, formal service usage and assistance to the caregiver. Significant associations were determined using mixed effect modified Poisson regressions. For both types of burden, the scores were slightly higher at 3 months as compared to 1 year. Poorer care-relationship (relative risk: 0.81, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.70–0.94) and adopting positive care management strategies (relative risk: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02–1.07) were independently associated with a high subjective burden. Providing assistance to caregivers (relative risk: 2.45, 95% CI: 1.72–3.29) and adopting positive care management strategies (relative risk: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.02–1.04) were independently associated with a high objective burden. Adopting positive care management strategies at 3 months had a significant indirect effect (standardised β: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.20) on high objective burden at one year. Healthcare providers should be aware that excessive care management strategies and assistance from family members may add to caregivers’ burden.
Dietary Antioxidants and Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Durazzo Alessandra , Lombardi-Boccia Ginevra , Santini Antonello , Lucarini Massimo
Published: November 2021

Introduction [...]
CD40 Pathway and IL-2 Expression Mediate the Differential Outcome of Colorectal Cancer Patients with Different CSF1R c.1085 Genotypes
Authors: Yeh Yu-Min , Lin Peng-Chan , Su Wu-Chou , Shen Meng-Ru
Published: November 2021

Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF-1R) acts as the receptor for colony stimulating factor 1, a cytokine that controls the production, differentiation, and function of macrophages. Prior studies showed cancer patients harboring germline CSF1R c.1085A>G genetic variant had better survival. Here, primary tumor samples from a stage III colorectal cancer (CRC) cohort were analyzed by a targeted gene expression assay containing 395 immune-related genes to study the immune mechanism underlying the different outcomes. CRC patients with CSF1R c.1085 genotype A_G had a better disease-free and overall survival than those with CSF1R genotype A_A. Compared to the group of patients without CSF1R variant, higher CD40LG expression, a surface marker of T cells, was found in the tumor tissues of patients with CSF1R c.1085 variant. In parallel with the higher CD40LG gene expression, immunofluorescent staining also showed more CD3+CD40L+ T cell infiltrates in tumors with CSF1R c.1085 genotype A_G. Moreover, higher IL-2 expression, known to be regulated by CD40 pathway, was also observed in tumors with CSF1R c.1085 genotype A_G than genotype A_A. Higher IL-2 expression generated by the interaction of CD40 ligand and CD40 between T cells and macrophages with CSF1R c.1085A>G variant is the potential mechanism explaining the different outcomes.
Occurrence of Textile Dyes and Metals in Tunisian Textile Dyeing Effluent: Effects on Oxidative Stress Status and Histological Changes in Balb/c Mice
Authors: Methneni Nosra , Ezdini Khawla , Ben Abdeljelil Nouha , Van Loco Joris , Van den Houwe Kathy , Jabeur Riheb , Fekih Sallem Ons , Jaziri Ahlem , Fernandez-Serrano Mercedes , Khdary Nezar H. , Ben Mansour Hedi
Published: November 2021

Although it is known that textile wastewater contains highly toxic contaminants whose effects in humans represent public health problems in several countries, studies involving mammal species are scarce. This study was aimed to evaluate the toxicity profile of 90-days oral administration of textile dyeing effluent (TDE) on oxidative stress status and histological changes of male mice. The TDE was collected from the textile plant of Monastir, Tunisia and evaluated for the metals, aromatic amines, and textile dyes using analytical approaches. Metal analysis by ICP-MS showed that the tested TDE exhibited very high levels of Cr, As, and Sr, which exceeded the wastewater emission limits prescribed by WHO and Tunisian authority. The screening of TDE through UPLC-MS/MS confirmed the presence of two textile dyes: a triphenylmethane dye (Crystal violet) and a disperse azo dye (Disperse yellow 3). Exposure to TDE significantly altered the malondialdehyde (MDA), Conjugated dienes (CDs), Sulfhydryl proteins (SHP) and catalase levels in the hepatic and renal tissues. Furthermore, histopathology observation showed that hepatocellular and renal lesions were induced by TDE exposure. The present study concluded that TDE may involve induction of oxidative stress which ensues in pathological lesions in several vital organs suggesting its high toxicity. Metals and textile dyes may be associated with the observed toxicological effects of the TDE. These pollutants, which may have seeped into surrounding rivers in Monastir city, can cause severe health malaise in wildlife and humans.
Targeting Mitochondria by Plant Secondary Metabolites: A Promising Strategy in Combating Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Fakhri Sajad , Abdian Sadaf , Zarneshan Seyede Nazanin , Akkol Esra Küpeli , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein , Sobarzo-Sánchez Eduardo
Published: November 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent and debilitating neurodegenerative conditions, and is currently on the rise. Several dysregulated pathways are behind the pathogenesis of PD; however, the critical targets remain unclear. Accordingly, there is an urgent need to reveal the key dysregulated pathways in PD. Prevailing reports have highlighted the importance of mitochondrial and cross-talked mediators in neurological disorders, genetic changes, and related complications of PD. Multiple pathophysiological mechanisms of PD, as well as the low efficacy and side effects of conventional neuroprotective therapies, drive the need for finding novel alternative agents. Recently, much attention has been paid to using plant secondary metabolites (e.g., flavonoids/phenolic compounds, alkaloids, and terpenoids) in the modulation of PD-associated manifestations by targeting mitochondria. In this line, plant secondary metabolites have shown promising potential for the simultaneous modulation of mitochondrial apoptosis and reactive oxygen species. This review aimed to address mitochondria and multiple dysregulated pathways in PD by plant-derived secondary metabolites.
Cervical Carcinoma: Oncobiology and Biomarkers
Authors: Volkova Larisa V. , Pashov Alexander I. , Omelchuk Nadezhda N.
Published: November 2021

Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of carcinomas causing morbidity and mortality in women in all countries of the world. At the moment, the oncology, oncobiology, and oncomorphology of cervical cancer are characterized by the accumulation of new information; various molecular biological, genetic, and immunohistochemical methods of investigation of the mechanisms of cervical carcinogenesis are tested and applied; targeted antitumour drugs and diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers are being searched for. Many issues of the etiopathogenesis of cervical cancer have not been sufficiently studied, and the role of many biomarkers characterizing various stages of cervical carcinogenesis remains unclear. Therefore, the target of this review is to systematize and understand several problems in the pathogenesis of cervical cancer and to evaluate the significance and role of biomarkers in cervical carcinogenesis.
Roles of OX40 and OX40 Ligand in Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary Syndrome
Authors: Kawana Yuki , Suga Hiraku , Kamijo Hiroaki , Miyagaki Tomomitsu , Sugaya Makoto , Sato Shinichi
Published: November 2021

Mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS), the most common types of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), are characterized by proliferation of mature CD4+ T-helper cells. Patients with advanced-stage MF and SS have poor prognosis, with 5-year survival rates of 52%. Although a variety of systemic therapies are currently available, there are no curative options for such patients except for stem cell transplantation, and thus the treatment of advanced MF and SS still remains challenging. Therefore, elucidation of the pathophysiology of MF/SS and development of medical treatments are desired. In this study, we focused on a molecule called OX40. We examined OX40 and OX40L expression and function using clinical samples of MF and SS and CTCL cell lines. OX40 and OX40L were co-expressed on tumor cells of MF and SS. OX40 and OX40L expression was increased and correlated with disease severity markers in MF/SS patients. Anti-OX40 antibody and anti-OX40L antibody suppressed the proliferation of CTCL cell lines both in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that OX40–OX40L interactions could contribute to the proliferation of MF/SS tumor cells and that the disruption of OX40–OX40L interactions could become a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of MF/SS.
Rapid and Visual Detection of Heterodera schachtii Using Recombinase Polymerase Amplification Combined with Cas12a-Mediated Technology
Authors: Yao Ke , Peng Deliang , Jiang Chen , Zhao Wei , Li Guangkuo , Huang Wenkun , Kong Lingan , Gao Haifeng , Zheng Jingwu , Peng Huan
Published: November 2021

Heterodera schachtii is a well-known cyst nematode that causes serious economic losses in sugar beet production every year. Rapid and visual detection of H. schachtii is essential for more effective prevention and control. In this study, a species-specific recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) primer was designed from a specific H. schachtii sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) marker. A band was obtained in reactions with DNA from H. schachtii, but absent from nontarget cyst nematodes. The RPA results could be observed by the naked eye, using a lateral flow dipstick (LFD). Moreover, we combined CRISPR technology with RPA to identify positive samples by fluorescence detection. Sensitivity analysis indicated that 10−4 single cysts and single females, 4−3 single second-stage juveniles, and a 0.001 ng genomic DNA template could be detected. The sensitivity of the RPA method for H. schachtii detection is not only higher than that of PCR and qPCR, but can also provide results in <1 h. Consequently, the RPA assay is a practical and useful diagnostic tool for early diagnosis of plant tissues infested by H. schachtii. Sugar beet nematodes were successfully detected in seven of 15 field sugar beet root samples using the RPA assay. These results were consistent with those achieved by conventional PCR, indicating 100% accuracy of the RPA assay in field samples. The RPA assay developed in the present study has the potential for use in the direct detection of H. schachtii infestation in the field.
Isoprocurcumenol Supports Keratinocyte Growth and Survival through Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Activation
Authors: Kwon Paul Kwangho , Kim Sung Wook , De Ranjit , Jeong Sung Woo , Kim Kyong-Tai
Published: November 2021

Although proliferation of keratinocytes, a major type of skin cells, is a key factor in maintaining the function of skin, their ability to proliferate tends to diminish with age. To solve such a problem, researchers in medical and skin cosmetic fields have tried to utilize epidermal growth factor (EGF), but achieved limited success. Therefore, a small natural compound that can mimic the activity of EGF is highly desired in both medical and cosmetic fields. Here, using the modified biosensor system, we observed that natural small-compound isoprocurcumenol, which is a terpenoid molecule derived from turmeric, can activate EGFR signaling. It increased the phosphorylation of ERK and AKT, and upregulated the expression of genes related to cell growth and proliferation, such as c-myc, c-jun, c-fos, and egr-1. In addition, isoprocurcumenol induced the proliferation of keratinocytes in both physical and UVB-induced cellular damage, indicative of its function in skin regeneration. These findings reveal that EGF-like isoprocurcumenol promotes the proliferation of keratinocytes and further suggest its potential as an ingredient for medical and cosmetics use.
Method for determining technical condition of agricultural machinery
Authors: Kostomakhin M. N.
Published: November 2021

The technique is intended for determining the basic indicators of the technical state of the art. Indicators of the technical condition depend on the achievements of the wear and/or deviations of parameters of machine parts.
Brief analysis of the provision of agricultural machinery to agricultural enterprises of the Republic of Belarus
Authors: Kovalev I. L. , Efremov A. A.
Published: November 2021

Long-term foreign and domestic experience in agricultural production proves that the intensification of agricultural production, an increase in its efficiency and volumes, an increase in the competitiveness of agricultural products, is impossible without constant modernization of the production and technical base and the introduction of the most modern achievements of scientific and technological progress. Only a comprehensive and systematic technical and technological reequipment of agricultural production, saturation of it with high-tech, high-performance complexes, machines, equipment can provide a significant increase in labor productivity, minimize the cost of all types of material resources with a steady trend of constantly decreasing labor resources in agricultural production. The analysis of indicators of provision with the main types of machines of domestic agricultural enterprises in comparison with different countries of the world is carried out. The article presents the results of the analysis of the most important segments of the agricultural tractor and combine park of the Republic of Belarus.
Linguïstisch transfer in het gebruik van vaste preposities bij Hongaarstalige NVT-leerders
Authors: Szadeczky Bence
Published: November 2021

Vaste preposities zijn vaak cruciaal bij het verwerven van de lexicon van een vreemde taal. Bij deze werkstuk neem ik het gebruik van vaste preposities van Hongaarstalige NVT-leerders onder de loep, met speciale aandacht voor de transfer of interferentie vanuit hun moedertaal en hun eerste vreemde taal, het Engels. De doel van het werkstuk is om te bepalen, welke taal een groter invloed toont op de verwerving van Nederlandse preposities. Hiervoor wordt een gap-fill test gehanteerd in vorm van een online enquête, waarin de missende preposities moeten ingevuld worden. Na de analyse van alle antwoorden lijkt de algemeen interferentie en transfer groter vanuit het Engels, hoewel als uitsluitend de juiste antwoorden worden bestudeert, stijgt de invloed van het Hongaars. Op basis hiervan lijkt het typologische nabijheid een belangrijke factor bij de verwerving van vaste preposities, terwijl de moedertaal een faciliterend effect zou hebben.
Az idegennyelvi lexikon elsajátításának folyamatában sok esetben meghatározók a lexémákhoz kapcsolódó prepozíciós vonzatok. Jelen dolgozatban a magyar anyanyelvű holland mint idegennyelv tanulók nyelvhasználatát vizsgálom a prepozíciós vonzatok terén, különös tekintettel az anyanyelvükből vagy az első idegennyelvből, az angolból eredeztethető lehetséges interferenciára vagy nyelvi transzferre. Dolgozatom célja meghatározni, a két beszélt nyelv közül melyik lehet nagyobb hatással a holland prepozíciók használatára. Ehhez egy online kérdőív formájában kitölthető teszttel vizsgálódtam, és a résztvevők mondatokat egészítettek ki, amelyekben a perpozíciók hiányoztak. Az összes beérkezett válasz elemzése után az általános interferencia vagy transzfer nagyobb mértékben volt megfigyelhető az angol nyelv irányából. Ha azonban a kizárólag helyesen megadott prepozíciókat figyeljük meg, a magyar nyelv hatása jobban megfigyelhető. Az eredmények alapján a tipológiai hasonlóság jelentős tényezőnek tűnik a vonzatok elsajátításában, az anyanyelvnek viszont facilitáló hatást tulajdoníthatunk.
Kompetenzförderung mit literarischen Texten im Deutsch als Fremdsprache-Unterricht
Authors: Varga-Mónok Eszter
Published: November 2021

In den vergangenen Jahrzehnten sind literarische Texte und ihre Rolle beim erfolgreichen Fremdsprachenunterricht immer häufiger in den Mittelpunkt der fachdidaktischen Diskussion geraten. Literarische Texte wurden einst aus dem Sprachunterricht verbannt, dann wiederentdeckt und gelten heute mehr denn je als interessantes und effektives Mittel der Kompetenzförderung. Die vorliegende Studie geht der Frage nach, wie Texte der klassischen deutschen Literatur – illustriert an zwei Balladen von Johann Wolfang von Goethe – einen Beitrag zum erfolgreichen DaF-Unterricht im 21. Jahrhundert leisten können. Zu diesem Zweck wird ein im schulischen Rahmen durchgeführtes Forschungsprojekt ausführlich beschrieben. Dabei werden die konkreten – und in den meisten Fällen selbst entwickelten – Aufgaben zu den Texten vorgestellt und mit didaktischen Kommentaren mit Blick auf die effektive Kompetenzförderung ergänzt. Das Ziel der durchgeführten Forschung besteht v.a. darin, praktizierende und angehende Lehrkräfte nach wie vor zum Einsatz klassischer literarischer Texte im Fremdsprachenunterricht anzuregen.
Entre évitement et ressassement : le spectre colonial belge dans les productions littéraires, artistiques et culturelles
Authors: Parent Sabrina , Bragard Véronique , Amuri Mpala-Lutebele Maurice
Published: November 2021

Face à l’ignorance, par une grande partie de la population belge, de son propre passé colonial et face au déni que semblent éprouver les politicien. ne. s belges à l’égard de ce même passé, les auteurs mettent en avant les productions des écrivain. e. s et artistes de l’extrême contemporain qui osent appréhender le fait colonial, le transformer en matière à travailler et substance à réfléchir. Ce faisant, elles et ils contribuent à faire du passé une source active d’enseignements éthiques.
La poésie française de Daniel Varoujan : Gand au « Coeur de la race »
Authors: Delacenserie Emerance
Published: November 2021

This article republishes two poems in French by Daniel Varoujan, published for the first time in the Almanach des Étudiants Libéraux de l’Université de Gand. The first, A la statue de Van Artevelde, was originally written in French, whilst the second, Le premier péché, was translated from the Armenian original. For its interpretation, the article takes as its cue the nationalist reading proposed by the editorial introduction to the first poem. It proposes to understand the first poem within the context of the comparison established by Varoujan between the completed national history of Belgium and the as yet incomplete one of Armenia. The second poem can be read as a response to the massacres of Adana in 1909.
Corps, texte/corps, littérature : la comptabilité existentielle chez Csáth et Gombrowicz
Authors: Chmurski Mateusz
Published: November 2021

De l’observation du temps aux mesures du corps, différents calculs et chiffres accompagnent le développement du journal personnel du moins depuis Benjamin Constant. En Europe centrale, deux publications récentes incitent à repenser les rapports entre écriture ordinaire et littérature, comptabilité et corporalité : la parution de Kronos de Witold Gombrowicz (2013 pour l’édition polonaise, 2016 pour la traduction française), ainsi que l’édition complète du journal personnel du psychiatre, psychanalyste et écrivain hongrois Géza Csáth (1997-2017). Partant d’une typologie du geste d’écriture de soi entre un corps qui désire s’écrire, les premières formes de notation et les limites du littéraire qu’elles dépassent bien souvent, l’article propose une analyse des rapports entre la corporalité, la normativité socioculturelle et l’écriture diaristique, propre aux deux auteurs, par ailleurs classiques de la prose moderne en Europe centrale.
Ontmijnen en ondermijnen. 1919 als uitgangspunt voor het sociale vraagstuk in de steenkoolsector tot 1951.
Authors: Coppieters Guy
Published: November 2021

1919-1920 is een mijlpaal in de sociale geschiedenis van de steenkoolsector. Nieuwe arbeidsverhoudingen moeten een einde maken aan de toenemende spanningen die zich vanaf het laatste kwart van de negentiende eeuw opbouwen. In een sterk gewijzigd, zelfs revolutionair, klimaat beslissen de sociale partners het roer om te gooien. Loonindexering en sociaal overleg vormen voortaan de pijlers voor de pacificatie van de mijnsector. De euforie rond deze aanpak is evenwel van korte duur. Het sociaal overleg loopt vanaf eind 1921 uitermate stroef en evolueert in de jaren 1930 naar een sociaal revanchisme door een uitermate goed georganiseerd mijnpatronaat. Ook de loonvorming blijft transparantie missen en manifesteert zich steeds sterker als conflictbron wanneer de mijnsector vanaf 1930 economisch zwaar onder druk komt. De conclusie luidt dat van een modernisering van de arbeidsverhoudingen tijdens het interbellum nauwelijks iets is terecht gekomen. Voor de mijnwerkers overheerst diepe ontgoocheling over de “ beloften van 1919 en 1920” en ze ontvluchten massaal de sector. De leegloop van de mijnen in 1944-1945 dient gezien te worden als de cumulatie van 25 jaar falend personeelsbeleid. De promotie van de mijnwerker tot “ ereburger” in 1945 roept de mijnvlucht geen halt toe.
De arbeidsvoorziening in de Limburgse steenkoolmijnen: werving en logistiek van de pendelarbeid (1901-1966).
Authors: Delbroek Bart
Published: November 2021

Door het structurele tekort op de lokale arbeidsmarkt en de ondermaatse verkeersinfrastructuur waren de Limburgse steenkoolmijnen genoodzaakt een eigen, duur, transportsysteem op poten te zetten om de bestaande en nieuwe pendelarbeid naar de eigen bedrijfspoorten te kanaliseren. Ze subsidieerden de aanleg en het onderhoud van nieuwe spoorlijnen en stations, en voorzagen overal waar mogelijk eigen busroutes voor het ondergrondse personeel. Talrijke wervingsagenten zochten in het hele land naar geschikt personeel. Er was daarbij een voortdurende concurrentie tussen de Limburgse mijnen onderling en met de naburige Luikse en Nederlandse mijnbekkens. Voor de pendelaars was de dagelijkse of wekelijkse reis naar het werk lang en oncomfortabel.
Hoe de Belgische mijnindustrie een nieuw thuis aan vluchtelingen-mijnwerkers aanbood (1947-1951)
Authors: Caestecker Frank , Luyckx Lieselotte
Published: November 2021

Cet article analyse l’arrivée de 21.906 réfugiés de l’Europe de l’Est dans les mines belges. Ils étaient recrutés dans les camps de réfugiés gérés par l’organisation internationale des réfugiés en Allemagne occupée, afin de répondre aux besoins de main-d’oeuvre dans l’industrie minière belge. En même temps, les autorités belges promettaient aux réfugiés «une vie libre et normale » en Belgique. Cette tension entre les deux objectifs – le recrutement de main d’oeuvre et la réinstallation – causait déjà des problèmes lors du recrutement, mais l’organisation internationale des réfugiés ainsi que les réfugiés eux-mêmes étaient continuellement confrontés aux limites du programme de réinstallation. Finalement, la majorité des réfugiés a décidé de refaire sa vie ailleurs qu’en Belgique.
O Capital Social e os Laços Fortes entre os membros da diretoria do Projeto RECA
Authors: Ribeiro Leonardo de Castro , Matos Gleimiria Batista da Costa
Published: November 2021

A exploração das riquezas naturais da Amazônia é contrastada com a pobreza da população de suas comunidades. A exploração descontrolada dos recursos naturais é insustentável do ponto de vista econômico, ambiental e sociais. Uma proposta para mitigar as externalidades ambientais e socioeconômicas seria a exploração sustentável pelas redes extrativistas e SAFs. O capital social na categoria laços fortes e fracos proporcionam a organização, fortalecimento e expansão das redes. A pesquisa foi realizada no Projeto RECA para responder à pergunta: quais as características do capital social na força dos laços fortes entre os membros da diretoria do Projeto RECA? A pesquisa tem o horizonte de tempo transversal, a epistemologia construtivista com abordagem descritiva, o método qualitativo e caracterizada como pesquisa qualitativa básica. Os dados são primários, coletados em entrevistas semiestruturadas com perguntas abertas. A análise de dados foi realizada em quatro etapas, e os resultados da análise das entrevistas confirmaram o enraizamento na diretoria do Projeto RECA do Capital Social na categoria laços fortes listadas Granovetter, caracterizadas nos aspectos: quantidade de tempo, intensidade emocional, intimidade, confiança mútua e serviços recíprocos. Apresentando um senso de pertencimento à comunidade e à associação.
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis C Virus among Prisoners in Lakan Prison, North of Iran, Is There Still a Concern?
Authors: Mohtasham-Amiri Zahra , Rezvani Seyed Mahmoud , Ashoori Farhad , Behboodi Mohsen , Toosi Hasan , Jafari-Shakib Reza
Published: November 2021

Background: Hepatitis C is a major cause of liver failure and liver transplantation. The known risk factors of this disease include blood transfusion, injection drug use, high risk sexual behaviors, tattoos, and use of shared blades and syringes. Due to the higher risk of viral hepatitis among people in prison, this study was done to find the seroprevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and associated risk factors in Lakan Prison in Rasht. Methods: Prisoners in Lakan Prison underwent a cross-sectional study in 2018. A questionnaire containing demographic information and risk factors was distributed to the inmates and they were asked complete them. High-risk individuals were selected and a blood sample was taken and tested. Data were collected and analyzed by SPSS18 software. Results: Out of 2215 prisoners, 1238 people had at least one risk factor, of whom 408 individuals were selected by random sampling. One hundred inmates were positive for anti-HCV antibody, yielding a prevalence of 24.5% (95% CI: 20.4%–28.7%) of whom 42.6% were people who injected drugs and 4 cases were found positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen, yielding a 1% prevalence (95% CI, 0.2%–2%.). A history of injecting drug use (OR 4.28, 95% CI: 2.55–7.17), and previous history of imprisonment (OR 2.94, 95% CI: 1.34–6.53) had association with HCV infection. Conclusion: The present study shows that hepatitis C is prevalent in prisons and preventive and screening programs should be implemented with necessary training for inmates.