bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population genomics and geographic dispersal in Chagas disease vectors: Landscape drivers and evidence of possible adaptation to the domestic setting
Authors: Hernandez-Castro Luis E. , Villacís Anita G. , Jacobs Arne , Cheaib Bachar , Day Casey C. , Ocaña-Mayorga Sofía , Yumiseva Cesar A. , Bacigalupo Antonella , Andersson Björn , Matthews Louise , Landguth Erin L. , Costales Jaime A. , Llewellyn Martin S. , Grijalva Mario J.
Published: February 2022

Accurate prediction of vectors dispersal, as well as identification of adaptations that allow blood-feeding vectors to thrive in built environments, are a basis for effective disease control. Here we adopted a landscape genomics approach to assay gene flow, possible local adaptation, and drivers of population structure inRhodnius ecuadoriensis, an important vector of Chagas disease. We used a reduced-representation sequencing technique (2b-RADseq) to obtain 2,552 SNP markers across 272R.ecuadoriensissamples from 25 collection sites in southern Ecuador. Evidence of high and directional gene flow between seven wild and domestic population pairs across our study site indicates insecticide-based control will be hindered by repeated re-infestation of houses from the forest. Preliminary genome scans across multiple population pairs revealed shared outlier loci potentially consistent with local adaptation to the domestic setting, which we mapped to genes involved with embryogenesis and saliva production. Landscape genomic models showed elevation is a key barrier toR.ecuadoriensisdispersal. Together our results shed early light on the genomic adaptation in triatomine vectors and facilitate vector control by predicting that spatially-targeted, proactive interventions would be more efficacious than current, reactive approaches.
Oxidant resistant human apolipoprotein A-I functions similarly to the unmodified human isoform in delaying atherosclerosis progression and promoting atherosclerosis regression in hyperlipidemic mice
Authors: Opoku Emmanuel , Berisha Stela , Brubaker Gregory , Robinet Peggy , Smith Jonathan D.
Published: February 2022

Background

Transgenic overexpression of apolipoprotein A-I (apoA1) has been shown to delay atherosclerosis lesion progression and promote lesion regression in mouse models; however, apoA1 is subject to oxidation by myeloperoxidase (MPO) and loss of function. The activity of oxidant resistant human apoA1 was compared to unmodified human apoA1 in mouse models of atherosclerosis progression and regression.

Methods and results

Human apoA1 and the MPO oxidant resistant 4WF isoform transgenic mice were bred to LDL receptor deficient (LDLr KO) mice and fed a western-type diet. High level expression of these human apoA1 isoforms did not lead to increased HDL-cholesterol levels on the LDLr KO background. In males and females, lesion progression was studied over time, and both apoA1 and 4WF transgenic mice vs. LDLr KO mice had significant and similar delayed lesion progression and reduced non-HDL cholesterol. Using time points with equivalent lesion areas, lesion regression was initiated by feeding the mice a low-fat control diet containing a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitor for 7 weeks. Lesions regressed more in the male apoA1 and 4WF transgenics vs. the LDLr KO, but the 4WF isoform was not superior to the unmodified isoform in promoting lesion regression.

Conclusions

Both human apoA1 and the 4WF MPO oxidant resistant apoA1 isoform delayed lesion progression and promoted lesion regression in LDLr KO mice, with more pronounced effects in males than females; moreover, the 4WF isoform functioned similarly to the unmodified human apoA1 isoform.
Effects of a sport-based positive youth development program on youth life skills and entrepreneurial mindsets
Authors: Malete Leapetswe , McCole Daniel , Tshube Tshepang , Mphela Thuso , Maro Cyprian , Adamba Clement , Machuve Juliana , Ocansey Reginald
Published: February 2022

Sport-based life skills interventions offer compelling pathways to understanding the role of physical activity and sport on youth psychosocial and other development outcomes. This is because of evidence that shows the benefits of sport programs to health and well-being of youth, and more lately other areas such as academic achievement and various life skills such as teamwork, leadership and goal setting. However, much of the research in this area of youth development is largely descriptive, with limited capacity to infer causal relationships and application across contexts. Therefore, this study examines the effects of a sport-based intervention program on life skills and entrepreneurial mindsets of youth from three African countries (n = 146, average age = 15.9 years, female = 48.6%). Half of the recruited participants were assigned to a three-week life skills intervention program and the remaining half to a sport-only control program. Both groups completed a demographic information questionnaire, Life Skills for Sport Scale and the General Enterprising Tendency v2 test. Two-way mixed ANOVAs showed significant post-intervention changes in life skills for both groups but changes in entrepreneurial mindsets for the intervention group only. This demonstrates the relevance of sport-based interventions to youth development outcomes in different contexts and the transformative potential of youth sport reported in previous studies. The findings have important implications for intentional and targeted delivery of programs to enhance specific youth development outcomes.
Developing the Breast Utility Instrument, a preference-based instrument to measure health-related quality of life in women with breast cancer: Confirmatory factor analysis of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and BR45 to establish dimensions
Authors: Tsui Teresa C. O. , Trudeau Maureen , Mitsakakis Nicholas , Torres Sofia , Bremner Karen E. , Kim Doyoung , Davis Aileen M. , Krahn Murray D.
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Breast cancer (BrC) and its treatments impair health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Utility is a measure of HRQoL that includes preferences for health outcomes, used in treatment decision-making. Generic preference-based instruments lack BrC-specific concerns, indicating the need for a BrC-specific preference-based instrument. Our objective was to determine dimensions of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) general cancer (QLQ-C30) and breast module (BR45) instruments, the first step in our development of the novel Breast Utility Instrument (BUI).

Methods

Patients (n = 408) attending outpatient BrC clinics at an urban cancer centre, and representing a spectrum of BrC health states, completed the QLQ-C30 and BR45. We performed confirmatory factor analysis of the combined QLQ-C30 and BR45 using mean-and variance-adjusted unweighted least squares estimation. The hypothesized factor model was based on clinical relevance, item distributions, missing data, item-importance, and internal reliability of dimensions. Models were evaluated based on global and item fit, local areas of strain, and likelihood ratio tests of nested models.

Results

Our final model had 10 dimensions: physical and role functioning, emotional functioning, social functioning, body image, pain, fatigue, systemic therapy side effects, sexual functioning and enjoyment, arm and breast symptoms, and endocrine therapy symptoms. Good overall model fit was achieved: χ2/df: 1.45, Tucker-Lewis index: 0.946, comparative fit index: 0.951, standardized root-mean-square residual: 0.069, root-mean-square error of approximation: 0.033 (0.030–0.037). All items had salient factor loadings (λ>0.4, p<0.001).

Conclusions

We identified important BrC HRQoL dimensions to develop the BUI, a BrC-specific preference-based instrument.
Bio-fabrication of stem-cell-incorporated corneal epithelial and stromal equivalents from silk fibroin and gelatin-based biomaterial for canine corneal regeneration
Authors: Torsahakul Chutirat , Israsena Nipan , Khramchantuk Supaporn , Ratanavaraporn Juthamas , Dhitavat Sirakarnt , Rodprasert Watchareewan , Nantavisai Sirirat , Sawangmake Chenphop
Published: February 2022

Corneal grafts are the imperative clinical treatment for canine corneal blindness. To serve the growing demand, this study aimed to generate tissue-engineered canine cornea in part of the corneal epithelium and underlying stroma based on canine limbal epithelial stem cells (cLESCs) seeded silk fibroin/gelatin (SF/G) film and canine corneal stromal stem cells (cCSSCs) seeded SF/G scaffold, respectively. Both cell types were successfully isolated by collagenase I. SF/G corneal films and stromal scaffolds served as the prospective substrates for cLESCs and cCSSCs by promoting cell adhesion, cell viability, and cell proliferation. The results revealed the upregulation oftumor protein P63(P63) andATP-binding cassette super-family G member 2(Abcg2) of cLESCs as well asKeratocan(Kera),Lumican(Lum),aldehyde dehydrogenase 3 family member A1(Aldh3a1) andAquaporin 1(Aqp1) of differentiated keratocytes. Moreover, immunohistochemistry illustrated the positive staining of tumor protein P63 (P63), aldehyde dehydrogenase 3 family member A1 (Aldh3a1), lumican (Lum) and collagen I (Col-I), which are considerable for native cornea. This study manifested a feasible platform to construct tissue-engineered canine cornea for functional grafts and positively contributed to the body of knowledge related to canine corneal stem cells.
Acceptance rate and risk perception towards the COVID-19 vaccine in Botswana
Authors: Tlale Lebapotswe B. , Gabaitiri Lesego , Totolo Lorato K. , Smith Gomolemo , Puswane-Katse Orapeleng , Ramonna Eunice , Mothowaeng Basego , Tlhakanelo John , Masupe Tiny , Rankgoane-Pono Goabaone , Irige John , Mafa Faith , Kolane Samuel
Published: February 2022

Background

The COVID-19 disease burden continues to be high worldwide and vaccines continue to be developed to help combat the pandemic. Acceptance and risk perception for COVID-19 vaccines is unknown in Botswana despite the government’s decision to roll out the vaccine nationally.

Objectives

This study aims to assess the acceptance rate and risk perception of COVID-19 vaccines amongst the general population in Botswana.

Methods

We interviewed 5300 adults in Botswana from 1–28 February 2021 using self-administered questionnaires. The main outcomes of the study were vaccine acceptance and hesitancy rates. Demographic, experiential and socio-cultural factors were explored for their association with outcome variables.

Results

Two-thirds of the participants were females (3199), with those aged 24–54 making the highest proportion (61%). The acceptance rate of COVID-19 vaccine was 73.4% (95% CI: 72.2%-74.6%) with vaccine hesitancy at 31.3% (95% CI: 30.0%-32.6%). When the dependent variable was vaccine acceptance, males had higher odds of accepting the vaccine compared to females (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.0, 1.4). Individuals aged 55–64 had high odds of accepting the vaccine compared to those aged 65 and above (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 0.6, 2.5). The odds of accepting the vaccine for someone with primary school education were about 2.5 times that of an individual with post graduate level of education. Finally, individuals with comorbidities had higher odds (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.0, 1.5) of accepting the vaccine compared to those without any underlying conditions.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a high acceptance rate for the COVID-19 vaccine and a low risk perception in Botswana. In order to achieve a high vaccine coverage and ensure a successful vaccination process, there is need to target populations with high vaccine hesitancy rates. A qualitative study to assess the factors associated with vaccine acceptance and hesitancy is recommended to provide an in-depth analysis of the findings.
A preliminary investigation of yoga as an intervention approach for improving long-term weight loss: A randomized trial
Authors: Unick Jessica L. , Dunsiger Shira I. , Bock Beth C. , Sherman Sally A. , Braun Tosca D. , Wing Rena R.
Published: February 2022

Objective

Yoga targets psychological processes which may be important for long-term weight loss (WL). This study is the first to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of yoga within a weight management program following WL treatment.

Methods

60 women with overweight or obesity (34.3±3.9 kg/m2, 48.1±10.1 years) were randomized to receive a 12-week yoga intervention (2x/week; YOGA) or a structurally equivalent control (cooking/nutrition classes; CON), following a 3-month behavioral WL program. Feasibility (attendance, adherence, retention) and acceptability (program satisfaction ratings) were assessed. Treatment groups were compared on weight change, mindfulness, distress tolerance, stress, affect, and self-compassion at 6 months. Initial WL (3-mo WL) was evaluated as a potential moderator.

Results

Attendance, retention, and program satisfaction ratings of yoga were high. Treatment groups did not differ on WL or psychological constructs (with exception of one mindfulness subscale) at 6 months. However, among those with high initial WL (≥5%), YOGA lost significantly more weight (-9.0kg vs. -6.7kg) at 6 months and resulted in greater distress tolerance, mindfulness, and self-compassion and lower negative affect, compared to CON.

Conclusions

Study findings provide preliminary support for yoga as a potential strategy for improving long-term WL among those losing ≥5% in standard behavioral treatment.
A novel dual-labeled small peptide as a multimodal imaging agent for targeting wild-type EGFR in tumors
Authors: Kim Myoung Hyoun , Kim Seul-Gi , Kim Dae-Weung
Published: February 2022

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is over-expressed in various human cancer. The over-expression of EGFR in tumors is an excellent target for the development of cancer imaging agents. In the present study, we developed Tc-99m SYPIPDT-GHEG-ECG-K-tetramethylrhodamine (SYPIPDT-ECG-TAMRA) as a molecular imaging agent targeting wild-type EFGR (wtEGFR)-positive tumor cells, and verified its feasibility as molecular imaging agent. SYPIPDT-ECG-TAMRA was synthesized using Fmoc solid-phase peptide synthesis. The radiolabeling of SYPIPDT-ECG-TAMRA with Tc-99m was accomplished using ligand exchange via tartrate. Cellular uptake and binding affinity studies were performed. In vivo gamma camera imaging, ex vivo imaging and biodistribution studies were performed using NCI-H460 and SW620 tumor-bearing murine models. After radiolabeling procedures with Tc-99m, Tc-99m SYPIPDT-ECG-TAMRA complexes were prepared at high yield (> 95%). The binding affinity value (Kd) of Tc-99m SYPIPDT-ECG-TAMRA for NCI-H460 cells was estimated to be 76.5 ± 15.8 nM. In gamma camera imaging, the tumor to normal muscle uptake ratios of Tc-99m SYPIPDT-ECG-TAMRA increased with time (2.7 ± 0.6, 4.0 ± 0.9, and 6.2 ± 1.0 at 1, 2, and 3 h, respectively). The percentage injected dose per gram of wet tissue for the NCI-H460 tumor was 1.91 ± 0.11 and 1.70 ± 0.22 at 1 and 3 h, respectively. We developed Tc-99m SYPIPDT-ECG-TAMRA, which is dual-labeled with both radioisotope and fluorescence. In vivo and in vitro studies demonstrated specific uptake of Tc-99m SYPIPDT-ECG-TAMRA into wtEGFR-positive NCI-H460 cells and tumors. Thus, the results of the present study suggest that Tc-99m SYPIPDT-ECG-TAMRA is a potential dual-modality imaging agent targeting wtEGFR.
Double-blind randomized N-of-1 trial of transcranial alternating current stimulation for mal de débarquement syndrome
Authors: Cha Yoon-Hee , Gleghorn Diamond , Doudican Benjamin Chipper
Published: February 2022

Background

Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS) is a medically refractory neurotological disorder characterized by persistent oscillating vertigo that follows a period of entrainment to oscillating motion such as experienced during sea or air travel. Fronto-occipital hypersynchrony may correlate with MdDS symptom severity.

Materials and methods

Individuals with treatment refractory MdDS lasting at least 6 months received single administrations of three fronto-occipital transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) protocols in an “n-of-1” double-blind randomized design: alpha frequency anti-phase, alpha-frequency in-phase, and gamma frequency control. Baseline assessments were made on Day 1. The treatment protocol that led to the most acute reduction in symptoms during a test session on Day 2 was administered for 10–12 stacked sessions given on Days 3 through 5 (20-minutes at 2-4mA). Pre to post symptom changes were assessed on Day 1 and Day 5. Participants who could clearly choose a preferred protocol on Day 2 did better on Day 5 than those who could not make a short-term determination on Day 2 and either chose a protocol based on minimized side effects or were randomized to one of the three protocols. In addition, weekly symptom assessments were made for four baseline and seven post stimulation points for the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), MdDS Balance Rating Scale (MBRS), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Results

Of 24 participants, 13 chose anti-phase, 7 chose in-phase, and 4 chose control stimulation. Compared to baseline, 10/24 completers noted ≥ 25% reduction, 5/24 ≥50% reduction, and 2/24 ≥75% reduction in oscillating vertigo intensity from Day 1 to Day 5. Stimulating at a frequency slightly higher than the individual alpha frequency (IAF) was better than stimulating at exactly the IAF, and slightly better than stimulating with a strategy of standardized stimulation at 10Hz. A one-way repeated measures ANOVA of weekly DHI, MBRS, and HADS measurements showed significant reductions immediately after treatment with improvement increasing through post-treatment week 6.

Conclusion

Fronto-occipital tACS may be effective in reducing the oscillating vertigo of MdDS and serve as a portable neuromodulation alternative for longer-term treatment. Stimulation frequency relative to the IAF may be important in determining the optimum treatment protocol [ClinicalTrials.gov study NCT02540616. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02540616].
Views of health professionals on risk-based breast cancer screening and its implementation in the Spanish National Health System: A qualitative discussion group study
Authors: Laza-Vásquez Celmira , Codern-Bové Núria , Cardona-Cardona Àngels , Hernández-Leal Maria José , Pérez-Lacasta Maria José , Carles-Lavila Misericòrdia , Rué Montserrat ,   on behalf of the DECIDO group
Published: February 2022

Background

With the aim of increasing benefits and decreasing harms, risk-based breast cancer screening has been proposed as an alternative to age-based screening. This study explores barriers and facilitators to implementing a risk-based breast cancer screening program from the perspective of health professionals, in the context of a National Health Service.

Methods

Socio-constructivist qualitative research carried out in Catalonia (Spain), in the year 2019. Four discussion groups were conducted, with a total of 29 health professionals from primary care, breast cancer screening programs, hospital breast units, epidemiology units, and clinical specialties. A descriptive-interpretive thematic analysis was performed.

Results

Identified barriers included resistance to reducing the number of screening exams for low-risk women; resistance to change for health professionals; difficulties in risk communication; lack of conclusive evidence of the benefits of risk-based screening; limited economic resources; and organizational transformation. Facilitators include benefits of risk-based strategies for high and low-risk women; women’s active role in their health care; proximity of women and primary care professionals; experience of health professionals in other screening programs; and greater efficiency of a risk-based screening program. Organizational and administrative changes in the health system, commitment by policy makers, training of health professionals, and educational interventions addressed to the general population will be required.

Conclusions

Despite the expressed difficulties, participants supported the implementation of risk-based screening. They highlighted its benefits, especially for women at high risk of breast cancer and those under 50 years of age, and assumed a greater efficiency of the risk-based program compared to the aged-based one. Future studies should assess the efficiency and feasibility of risk-based breast cancer screening for its transfer to clinical practice.
Cellular ESCRT components are recruited to regulate the endocytic trafficking and RNA replication compartment assembly during classical swine fever virus infection
Authors: Liu Chun-chun , Liu Ya-yun , Zhou Jiang-fei , Chen Xi , Chen Huan , Hu Jia-huan , Chen Jing , Zhang Jin , Sun Rui-cong , Wei Jian-chao , Go Yun Young , Morita Eiji , Zhou Bin
Published: February 2022

As the important molecular machinery for membrane protein sorting in eukaryotic cells, the endosomal sorting and transport complexes (ESCRT-0/I/II/III and VPS4) usually participate in various replication stages of enveloped viruses, such as endocytosis and budding. The main subunit of ESCRT-I, Tsg101, has been previously revealed to play a role in the entry and replication of classical swine fever virus (CSFV). However, the effect of the whole ESCRT machinery during CSFV infection has not yet been well defined. Here, we systematically determine the effects of subunits of ESCRT on entry, replication, and budding of CSFV by genetic analysis. We show that EAP20 (VPS25) (ESCRT-II), CHMP4B and CHMP7 (ESCRT-III) regulate CSFV entry and assist vesicles in transporting CSFV from Clathrin, early endosomes, late endosomes to lysosomes. Importantly, we first demonstrate that HRS (ESCRT-0), VPS28 (ESCRT-I), VPS25 (ESCRT-II) and adaptor protein ALIX play important roles in the formation of virus replication complexes (VRC) together with CHMP2B/4B/7 (ESCRT-III), and VPS4A. Further analyses reveal these subunits interact with CSFV nonstructural proteins (NS) and locate in the endoplasmic reticulum, but not Golgi, suggesting the role of ESCRT in regulating VRC assembly. In addition, we demonstrate that VPS4A is close to lipid droplets (LDs), indicating the importance of lipid metabolism in the formation of VRC and nucleic acid production. Altogether, we draw a new picture of cellular ESCRT machinery in CSFV entry and VRC formation, which could provide alternative strategies for preventing and controlling the diseases caused by CSFV or other Pestivirus.
Mechanisms of the host immune response and helminth-induced pathology during Trichobilharzia regenti (Schistosomatidae) neuroinvasion in mice
Authors: Macháček Tomáš , Leontovyč Roman , Šmídová Barbora , Majer Martin , Vondráček Oldřich , Vojtěchová Iveta , Petrásek Tomáš , Horák Petr
Published: February 2022

Helminth neuroinfections represent serious medical conditions, but the diversity of the host-parasite interplay within the nervous tissue often remains poorly understood, partially due to the lack of laboratory models. Here, we investigated the neuroinvasion of the mouse spinal cord byTrichobilharzia regenti(Schistosomatidae). Active migration ofT.regentischistosomula through the mouse spinal cord induced motor deficits in hindlimbs but did not affect the general locomotion or working memory. Histological examination of the infected spinal cord revealed eosinophilic meningomyelitis with eosinophil-rich infiltrates entrapping the schistosomula. Flow cytometry and transcriptomic analysis of the spinal cord confirmed massive activation of the host immune response. Of note, we recorded striking upregulation of the major histocompatibility complex II pathway and M2-associated markers, such as arginase or chitinase-like 3. Arginase also dominated the proteins found in the microdissected tissue from the close vicinity of the migrating schistosomula, which unselectively fed on the host nervous tissue. Next, we evaluated the pathological sequelae ofT.regentineuroinvasion. While no demyelination or blood-brain barrier alterations were noticed, our transcriptomic data revealed a remarkable disruption of neurophysiological functions not yet recorded in helminth neuroinfections. We also detected DNA fragmentation at the host-schistosomulum interface, but schistosomula antigens did not affect the viability of neurons and glial cellsin vitro. Collectively, altered locomotion, significant disruption of neurophysiological functions, and strong M2 polarization were the most prominent features ofT.regentineuroinvasion, making it a promising candidate for further neuroinfection research. Indeed, understanding the diversity of pathogen-related neuroinflammatory processes is a prerequisite for developing better protective measures, treatment strategies, and diagnostic tools.
Most common inappropriate drug usage factors in anthelmintic treatment on sheep farms in Latvia
Authors: Kovaļčuka Līga , Keidāne Dace , Kļaviņa Alīna , Grasberga Marta Barbara , Vekšins Armands
Published: February 2022

Background and Aim: There is little understanding about antiparasitic drug prescription trends and implementation to reduce possible drug overuse or misuse worldwide. This study aimed to review sheep parasite control strategies and antiparasitic drug use habits in Latvia. To the best of the author's knowledge, this is the first study in the world that describes how antiparasitic drugs are used and what are the most common drug usage errors in a sheep farm.

Materials and Methods: A semi-structured questionnaire was designed to collect relevant information from face-to-face interviews to assess 22 sheep farmers' knowledge and management procedures in farms. We collected information about animal feeding, herding, parasite diagnostics, and antiparasitic drug usage. The questionnaire summary included information on pasture use, parasite control management, and anthelmintic drug choice/use.

Results: Only 36% of farms regularly managed parasite control by analyzing fecal samples for parasites, but prophylactic deworming was employed in all farms. Ivermectin, albendazole, levamisole, and monepantel were used on the farms and most of the farms were multidrug users; 77.3% of the farms used albendazole and 72.7% used ivermectin.

Conclusion: The results indicated a lack of parasitological examination and parasite control of the flock, mostly empiric drug selection, incorrect dosing, inaccurate drug administration, drug storage, and use errors. A proactive approach to herd health planning, regular parasitic control, and prophylactic measures may benefit farmers and veterinarians.
Stoic Representation of insania in Seneca’s Phaedra
Authors: Bán Katalin
Published: February 2022

Phaedra is a drama of the presentation of human passion, with a focus on depicting how the heroine is unable to control the destructive forces of the soul. The study reveals that despite being aware of and expressing the destructive nature of her madness, she does not exercise self-control, but increasingly succumbs to the power of the passion for her stepson. After being rejected, in her insane state of mind, she accuses the young man, which has fatal consequences. Seneca often expresses Phaedra’s insanity with the use of pictorial representations and compares them to the destructive forces of nature. These metaphors inspired by nature highlight an important point in Seneca’s philosophy: the linkage of the cosmic and the individual. My aim is to emphasize Seneca’s Stoic interpretation of virtuous life and insania.
In the Service of the Empire: Continuity of Jewish Military Service in the Armies of Rome
Authors: Olshanetsky Haggai
Published: February 2022

The main debate regarding Jewish soldiers serving in the Roman armies is still focused on the question whether these Jews actually existed. Unfortunately, this debate is not only limited, but at times it also misses the larger picture. The current article will conclusively show that Jews served in the Roman armies, even in large numbers, and that the main debate we must conduct is whether they served in accordance with their percentage of the general population, or even in higher numbers. Furthermore, the article will irrefutably prove that Jewish military service was a continuous phenomenon from the last decades of the Republic until the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD, and possibly continued, to some extent, in the Eastern Roman Empire until the first half of the 6th century AD.
The Sibila’s Gaze and Acoustic Space in Farsa del juego de cañas
Authors: Pérez Natalia
Published: February 2022

In this essay I look at the productive tension between the visual and the acoustic elements in the Iberian sixteenth-century play La farsa del juego de cañas by Diego Sánchez de Badajoz, with special attention to the uses of the female voice in the complex spatial organization of the stage. In the first part of my essay, I argue that through the figure of the Sibila, the playwright experiments with new notions of conceptual dramatic space. I then show how this medieval and Iberian sibila can be read in the context of a long tradition of other subversive female figures, such as the Greco-Roman sibyl or the Homeric muse, who have traditionally been represented as passive vehicles of both poets and gods. In this short play these passive female figures are transformed into an active and powerful force that creates the dramatic space that will make the performance of the play possible. Due to the unusually detailed stage directions that accompany the play, we have a clear view into Sánchez de Badajoz’s complex use of theatrical space, which allows contemporary readers and spectators to imagine the intricate relationship between Early Modern textual practices and performances.
Eliminando invisibilidades: La sexualidad de las mujerescripenYes, We Fuck!
Authors: Fuente-Camacho Montserrat
Published: February 2022

El documental español Yes, We Fuck! (2015) surge de la investigación académica realizada por la socióloga Andrea García-Santesmases. Este filme dirigido por Antonio Centeno y Raúl de la Morena relata seis historias donde el espectador descubre que las personas con diversidad funcional/discapacidad no son seres asexuados, sino por el contrario disfrutan de su sexualidad. Este artículo se centrará, específicamente, en la sexualidad femenina de las mujeres que aparecen en el documental con el fin de observar si cuestiona la feminidad hegemónica, subvirtiendo los discursos heteronormativo y capacitista que niegan los derechos sexuales a las mujeres con diversidad funcional.
Review of Jonathan Dimbleby's "Operation Barbarossa"
Authors: Fuelling Mathias J
Published: February 2022

Review of Jonathan Dimbleby's "Operation Barbarossa"
Book Review - 1917: La Revolución Rusa Cien Años Después
Authors: Perna Alejandro
Published: February 2022

Jorge Saborido's 1917. La Revolución Rusa cien años después provides a useful introduction to a complex topic. Mainly a work of synthesis, the author manages to cover several thematic areas while bringing to the attention of the reader different interpretations to some of the most contentious events. In spite of minor drawbacks, it provides a solid overview of the subject from which Spanish-speaking undergraduates and non-specialists may profit.
Book Review - Disorientations: An Anthology of Polish Queer Literature
Authors: Krzyżanowska Magdalena Joanna
Published: February 2022

This review discusses 'Dezorientacje. Antologia polskiej literatury queer' (2021), edited by Alessandro Amenta, Tomasz Kaliściak, and Błażej Warkocki. This is the first published anthology of Polish, queer literature. The editors situate the anthology as the successor of works by Eve Kosofsky-Sedgwick and Maria Janion, among others. The review describes the anthology's content (mainly examples of prose and poetry from 1780 to 2018), its structure, and its significance for queer studies and Polish literature.
مسؤولية الطبيب عن تفاقم الحالة الصحية للمريض
Authors: علوان د. زينة حسين
Published: February 2022

الحق في سلامة الجسم هو مركز قانوني يمكّن شاغله في حدود القانون من الاحتفاظ بسلامته البدنية ومستوى الصحة التي يختبرها وبسكينه الجسدية والنفسية، ويُنقل الحق في الأمان إلى جميع أعضاء الجسم وأن المساس به يرتب المسؤولية ولأن الإجراءات الطبية تتطلب االمساس بجسم الإنسان قد يؤدي الى  قيام مسؤولية الطبيب عندما  يقوم بخطأ الذي يفاقم  الحالة الصحية للمريض وتكييف هذه المسؤولية باعتبارها مسؤولية مهنية.
Dispensador de cajetillas de cigarrillos para Mipyme como experiencia de relación academia-sector productivo, Tuluá
Authors: Lozada-Das-Dores Ángel-José , Casallas-Restrepo Ronald-Esteban , Bedoya-García Jorge-Andrés , Castellanos-Garzón Jenniffer-Alejandra , Rey-Piedrahita Andrés
Published: February 2022

A través del desarrollo de un proyecto de investigación académico, se planteó involucrar a tres actores de la sociedad como son el estado, la academia y el sector productivo (sector terciario, el comercio al detal), con la intención de incluir también a la sociedad para resolver la problemática real de una Mipyme tipo granero en el municipio de Tuluá, Colombia. Lo anterior, basado en la aplicación de los modelos de triple y cuádruple hélice que buscan el desarrollo científico y tecnológico de una sociedad para conseguir un bienestar general y sostenible en el tiempo. A través de la observación no estructurada, la revisión de documentos y entrevistas abiertas con el gerente y empleados de la Mipyme, se recolectaron los datos relacionados con las características de la misma. Con base en lo anterior, se estableció la problemática actual y se estudió la solución que mejor se adaptara a las necesidades y requerimientos de la empresa. Luego, se diseñó y desarrolló la máquina dispensadora de cajetillas de cigarrillos. La medición del tiempo de despacho y atención al cliente, así como el control de productos extraviados, permitieron verificar eficiencia de la máquina. Se demostró, mediante el diseño y el desarrollo de la maquina dispensadora, que la interrelación y la cooperación academia-empresa-estado-personas es factible y útil para resolver los problemas reales de las organizaciones. Así mismo, se evidenció la necesidad de mayor participación de la sociedad civil, así como de lograr la sostenibilidad en el tiempo de la cooperación academia-empresa-estado y sociedad.
Ibuprofen on Proliferation and Apoptosis of Sarcoma Cells via PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Bai Ye , Guo Ning , Chen Qinghe , Chen Yuxi , Bi Zhenggang
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, there is a serious lack of information about the value-added apoptosis of sarcoma cells in China. Especially in clinical medicine, exploring the effect of ibuprofen on the growth and apoptosis of fibrosarcoma cells under the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway can not only effectively prevent us in advance, but also be a great way to break through this field. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of ibuprofen on the proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis of fibrosarcoma cells through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. We divided the HTl080 cell line into zero control group, control group and experimental group. The withering group was not inoculated with any cells, while the control group was only added with the same amount of culture medium, while the experimental group was added with 5,10,15,20 concentrations respectively. We found that the apoptosis rate of sarcoma cells in the control group increased from 5.66% to 7.12%, while the apoptosis rate of sarcoma cells in the experimental group increased significantly faster than that in the control group, with an overall increase of 7.16%, from 4.56% to 11.72%. Therefore, we can be surer that ibuprofen has a very good inhibitory effect on the proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis of fibrosarcoma cells under the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Therefore, when ibuprofen was injected into the body, it could not only observe the sarcoma cells well but also reflect the good inhibitory effect of ibuprofen on other substances in vivo under the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
MiR-182 antagonist alleviates glucocorticoid-induced secondary bone degeneration and osteoclast differentiation
Authors: Zhao Bin , Luo Min , Wang Aiyuan , Zhang Weili
Published: February 2022

In this study, the expression of miR-182 in secondary bone degeneration was investigated, and the effect of its antagonist on glucocorticoid-induced osteoclast differentiation and its mechanism was studied. For this purpose, PBMC cell lines were selected for cultivation, and the changes were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Real-time fluorescence quantitative (qRT-PCR) was used to detect mRNA expression. The protein expressions of RANKL, OPG and CXCL10 were detected by Western blot. CCK-8 and flow cytometry was used to detect cell proliferation and apoptosis. The results showed that protein expression levels of RANKL, OPG and CXCL10 in the miR-182 group were significantly higher than those in other groups (P>0.01). The miR-182 can promote RANK signal transduction in osteoclasts by regulating RANKL/NFκB signaling pathway, accelerating osteoclast proliferation and differentiation, and slowing down the process by miR-182 inhibitor. In general, miR-182 alleviates OP by inhibiting the activity of osteoclast via RANKL/NFκB signaling.
Effect of ultra-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy and ShuoTong ureteroscopy on the stress response, inflammatory indices, and urokinase level in patients with polycystic kidney disease complicated with renal calculus
Authors: Qiao Du , Cheng Luo , Xiaomei Tian , Baolei Shi , Yingyi Li , Hui Zhang , Shaohua Bian , Wei Liu , U Dai Y , Fangqiong Deng , Jie Liu , Shuangning Liu
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to explore the effects of ultra-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (UMP) combined with ShuoTong ureteroscopy on the stress response, inflammation indicators and urokinase levels in patients with polycystic kidney disease and kidney stones. In this study, 42 patients with polycystic kidney disease and kidney stones diagnosed and treated in our hospital from February 2018 to February 2021 were selected as the research objects. They were randomly divided into the control group and the study group, with 21 cases in each group, and the control group adopted Ultra-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy treatment; the study group was combined with ShuoTong ureteroscopy on the basis of the control group, and compared and analyzed the stress response, inflammation indexes, urokinase level, renal function, complications and stone clearance rate of the two groups of patients. After treatment, the average operation time, channel establishment time, hemoglobin decline, number of puncture channels, and hospital stay in the study group were significantly shorter than those in the control group (P<0.05); after treatment, the reduction in CRP and PCT in the study group was significantly higher than that in the control group The increase of Ang I and Ang II in the control group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P<0.05); the improvement of PGE2, NO, and LPO levels in the study group was significantly higher than that in the control group after treatment (P<0.05); the study group TH, Cys- The levels of C and β2-MG were significantly lower than those of the control group; the UK levels of the study group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P<0.05); the complication rate of 14.29% in the study group after treatment was significantly lower than that of the control group 33.33%; the study group The stone clearance rate of 95.24% was significantly higher than that of the control group 80.95% (P<0.05). In general, UMP combined with ShuoTong ureteroscopy is used to treat polycystic kidney with kidney stones, accurately determine the tip position of the needle sheath, ensure that the needle sheath enters the collection system to adjust its position, reduce patient stress and inflammation, improve safety and feasibility, and is worthy of clinical practice Promote applications.
Possible Mechanism of Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Neural Cell Transplantation on the Recovery of Neurogenic Bladder Function after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Yao Ming , Liu Guo , Li Yourui , Song Hualei
Published: February 2022

After spinal cord injury, more neurogenic bladder function is caused. The purpose of this article is to investigate the possible mechanism of placental mesenchymal stem cell-derived neural cell transplantation on the recovery of neurogenic bladder function after spinal cord injury. 50 SPF Wistar rats were selected to establish a spinal cord injury rat model and divided into experimental groups and in the control group, 25 animals in each group, the experimental group was transplanted with placental mesenchymal stem cell-derived nerve cells, and the urodynamics and TUNEL positive rate were compared. The results of the study showed that compared with the control group, the maximum bladder capacity and bladder compliance of the experimental group increased significantly (P<0.01), and the bladder basic pressure and urinary leakage pressure decreased (P<0.05). The values of these four items are 2.318ml, 28.892cm H2O, 46.34cm H2O, and 0.1389ml/cm H2O, respectively. It can be seen that the transplantation of neural cells derived from placental mesenchymal stem cells is of great significance for the recovery of neurogenic bladder function after spinal cord injury.
BAG2-activated cell autophagy and mir-27b dynamic regulation mechanism during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
Authors: Xing Xiaoming , Zhang Cuiyun , Zhou Jie , Jin Qian , Zheng Qinfang
Published: February 2022

Tuberculosis is a highly contagious infectious disease. Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection is the main cause of tuberculosis. During the infection of M. tuberculosis, the expression of the resistance gene BAG2 will change, and miR-27b will play a certain role in dynamic regulation. The purpose of this article is to explore in-depth the effect of BAG2 on cell autophagy during M. tuberculosis infection and the dynamic regulatory mechanism of miR-27b on BAG2 activated cell autophagy. Fifty rats were used as experimental subjects, and M. tuberculosis strains H37Ra and H37Rv were implanted into the rats. Fluorescence quantitative PCR was used to detect the dynamic changes of BAG2 and miR-27b expression levels in rats and the regulatory effect of miR-27b on BAG2, and the effect of changes in BAG2 expression levels on cell autophagy was studied by immunoblotting. The results showed that after M. tuberculosis-infected macrophages, the expression level of BAG2 decreased from (284.24±6.31) to (156.48.24±4.49), and the expression level of miR-27b was increased from (43.72±3.35) to (78.35± 4.17), the apoptosis rate increased by 17.8%, and the autophagy rate increased by 20.6%. Therefore, it can be seen that the up-regulation of miR-27b expression level during M. tuberculosis infection will inhibit BAG2 expression, thereby promoting cell autophagy and apoptosis to reduce the survival rate of M. tuberculosis.
Repurposing of anisomycin and oleandomycin as a potential anti-(SARS-CoV-2) virus targeting key enzymes using virtual computational approaches
Authors: Zrieq Rafat , Snoussi Mejdi , Algahtan Fahad D. , Tasleem Munazzah , Saeed Mohd , Noumi Emira , Khalifa Nasrin E. , Gad-Elkareem Mohamed A. M. , Aouadi Kaïss , Kadri Adel
Published: February 2022

Despite the accelerated emerging of vaccines, development against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2) drugs discovery is still in demand. Repurposing the existing drugs is an ideal time/cost-effective strategy to tackle the clinical impact of SARS CoV–2. Thereby, the present study is a promising strategy that proposes the repurposing of approved drugs against pivotal proteins that are responsible for the viral propagation of SARS-CoV-2 virus Angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2; 2AJF), 3CL-protease: main protease (6LU7), Papain-like protease (6W9C), Receptor Binding Domain of Spike protein (6VW1), Transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS-2; 5AFW) and Furin (5MIM) by in silico methods. Molecular docking results were analyzed based on the binding energy and active site interactions accomplished with pharmacokinetic analysis. It was observed that both anisomycin and oleandomycin bind to all selected target proteins with good binding energy, achieving the most favorable interactions. Considering the results of binding affinity, pharmacokinetics and toxicity of anisomycin and oleandomycin, it is proposed that they can act as potential drugs against the SARS CoV–2 infection. Further clinical testing of the reported drugs is essential for their use in the treatment of SARS CoV–2 infection.
The relationship between different interleukins and T helper cells count in patients with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Li Yuru , Hou Chuandong , Yan Wenjing , Li Xiaoxia , Deng Xinli
Published: February 2022

Immune thrombocytopenia is the most common autoimmune disorder involving blood types. In several studies, the role of T CD4+ cells in patients with immune thrombocytopenia has been associated with different results. Therefore, in this study, with the aim of applied research in the pathogenesis of immune thrombocytopenia, the relationship was investigated between the number of T CD4+ cells, serum levels of IL-11 and IL-17 cytokines, and platelet count. In this regard, 100 patients with immune thrombocytopenia and 100 healthy individuals were included in the study. The T CD4+ cell counts were examined by flow cytometry and in addition, serum levels of interleukins 11 and 17 were measured by ELISA. The results of this study showed that the number of T CD4+ cells and plasma level of IL-17 were not significantly different between the two groups, but plasma levels of IL-11 in the patient group were significantly higher than the control group (P = 0.286). Overall, in this study, the level of cytokine IL-11 was significantly increased in comparison with IL-17 and T CD4+ cells in patients with immune thrombocytopenia, so it is suggested that measurement of cytokine IL-11 level in these patients could be considered as a critical diagnostic marker and indicator in the stages of disease progression.
Potassium Ion Channel Protein (KCNH) Levels in Patients with Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Authors: Tas Ayca , Hayta Emrullah , Karadag Ahmet , Zontul Cemile , Ozmen Esma , Aydin Süleyman , Silig Yavuz
Published: February 2022

Although there is not yet full clarity of the pathogenesis of fibromyalgia syndrome (FM), central sensitization is considered to be responsible. The purpose of this study was to measure the plasma levels of potassium ion channel proteins (human KCNH2, KCNH6 and KCNH7) in FM patients and healthy control subjects. The study sample includes 76 newly diagnosed FM patients and 79 healthy individuals. Venous blood samples were taken to measure the plasma levels of KCNH2, KCNH6 and KCNH7. Pain severity in FM patients was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS). Bioinformatics analysis was performed using the STRING v 11 Protein interaction tool. Age, gender and body mass index were seen to be similar in both groups. In comparisons between FM and control groups, KCNH2 plasma levels was found to be significantly lower in the FM group. No significant correlation was found between plasma levels of KCNH2, KCNH6 and KCNH7 protein levels and VAS score of patients with FM. The KCNH2 protein had a high homology score with 9 proteins. The plasma levels of KCNH2 FM patients were found to be lower than those of the healthy control subjects, no difference was determined in respect of the plasma levels of KCNH6 and KCNH7. These results may be of use in guiding future studies on the pathogenesis of FM.