bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semecarpus Anacardium Linn. Leaf Extract Exhibits Activities Against Breast Cancer And Prolongs The Survival of Tumor Bearing Mice
Authors: Singh Rajesh Kumar , Ranjan Amit , Tripathi Ruchita , Verma Sumit Singh , Sharma Vinamra , Singh Monika , Gupta Subash Chandra , Singh Anil Kumar
Published: July 2021

Semecarpus anacardium Linn. is a commonly used Ayurvedic medicinal plant which nuts have been described in Ayurveda and Sidda system of medicine to treat clinical ailments such as vitiligo, inflamation, microbial infection, geriatric problem, baldness and neuro related problems. In this study, anti-cancer activity of the leaves of Semecarpus anacardium Linn was evaluated for future drug development. The phytochemical screening was done by GC-MS analysis, cytotoxicity was examined using MTT assay, mode of cell death was evaluated by fluorescence microscopy and finally antitumor activity was determined in EAC cell induced tumor bearing mice. The ethyl acetate extract from the leaves of the plant induced cytotoxicity in cancer cells in a dose dependent manner (IC50: 0.57 µg/ml in MCF-7 cells) in different cancer cell lines. The non-malignant cells were relatively insensitive to the extract. The staining with acridine orange, ethidium bromide and DAPI confirmed that the extract induced apoptosis in cancer cells. Furthermore, the extract induced cell cycle arrest at G1 phase and suppressed cancer cell migration. An oral administration of the extract suppressed the tumor growth in mice model bearing ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells. The ethyl acetate extract was also found to prolong the survival of tumor bearing mice. Overall, these observations suggest the anticancer activities of the ethyl acetate extract of the leaves of S. anacardium. The study opens a new window to examine the phytochemical constituents from the leaves of the plant responsible for the anticancer activities.
Water immersion and one-year storage influence seed germination of Copernicia alba palm tree from a neotropical wetland
Authors: Soares Vanessa Couto , Daibes L. Felipe , Damasceno-Junior Geraldo A. , De Lima Liana Baptista
Published: July 2021

Copernicia alba (Morong ex Morong & Britton) is a palm tree native to tropical and subtropical climates, commonly named “carandá”, that often forms monodominant populations in the Pantanal wetland in Brazil. Currently, the knowledge of the seed germination behavior of C. alba is still limited, as well as seed viability in ex-situ conservation under laboratory conditions. Hence, this study investigated the effect of water treatments and a one-year storage period (at 19°C under a relative humidity of 45%) on its germination. We subjected fresh and stored seeds to immersion in water at room temperature (~25°C) for 24, 48, and 72 h; and hot water (~75°C) for 5 min and 10 min. The results showed that seeds do not have primary dormancy, with fresh seeds germinating 84% in the control. Additionally, fresh seeds had a significant increase in germination percentage (reaching 100%) and faster germination times after immersion in water for 48 and 72 h. On the other hand, hot water treatments decreased germination for both fresh and stored seeds. One year of storage reduced the germination capacity by almost 50%. We concluded that seeds of C. alba may be easily germinated under laboratory conditions for seedling production, and water immersion at room temperature can improve the germination of fresh seeds. However, long-term seed storage and hot-water treatments may jeopardize germination. Future studies should further investigate ex-situ conservation of seed of C. alba under extended periods, considering seed desiccation and alternative storage conditions, to improve seed conservation techniques .
Prevalence And Genetic Diversity of Bartonella Spp. In Northern Bats (Eptesicus Nilssonii) And Their Blood-Sucking Ectoparasites In Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Nabeshima Kei , Sato Shingo , Brinkerhoff R. Jory , Amano Murasaki , Kabeya Hidenori , Itou Takuya , Maruyama Soichi
Published: July 2021

We investigated the prevalence of Bartonella in northern bats (Eptesicus nilssonii) and their ectoparasites from Hokkaido, Japan. Two batbugs (Cimex japonicus) and 174 bat fleas (Ischnopsyllus needhami) were collected from the bats. Bartonella bacteria were isolated from 32 (26.0%) of 123 bats examined. Though Bartonella DNA was detected in 79 (45.5%) of bat fleas, the bacterium was isolated from only one bat flea (0.6%). The gltA sequences of the isolates were categorized into genotypes I, II, and III, which were found in common between the bats and fleas. The gltA sequences of genotypes I and II showed 97.6% similarity with the gene from E. nilssonii in Finland and a bat flea from E. serotinus in the Netherlands. The rpoB sequences of the genotypes showed 98.9% similarity with strain 44722 from E. serotinus in Georgia. The gltA and rpoB sequences of genotype III showed 95.9% and 96.7% similarity with strains from two different species of shrews in Kenya and France, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Bartonella isolates of genotypes I and II clustered with strains from Eptesicus bats in Georgia and Finland, Myotis bats in Romania and the UK, and a bat flea from an Eptesicus bat in Finland. In contrast, genotype III formed a clade with B. florencae, B. acomydis, and B. birtlesii. These data suggest that northern bats in Japan harbor two Bartonella species and I. needhami likely serves as a potential vector of Bartonella transmission in the bats.
Multiomic Analysis on Human Cell Model of Wolfram Syndrome Reveals Changes In Mitochondrial Morphology And Function
Authors: Zmyslowska Agnieszka , Kuljanin Miljan , Malachowska Beata , Stanczak Marcin , Michalek Dominika , Wlodarczyk Aneta , Grot Dagmara , Taha Joanna , Pawlik Bartłomiej , Lebiedzińska-Arciszewska Magdalena , Nieznanska Hanna , Wieckowski Mariusz R. , Rieske Piotr , Mancias Joseph D. , Borowiec Maciej , Mlynarski Wojciech , Fendler Wojciech
Published: July 2021

Background: Wolfram syndrome (WFS) is a rare autosomal recessive syndrome in which diabetes mellitus and neurodegenerative disorders occur as a result of wolframin deficiency and increased ER stress. In addition, WFS1 deficiency leads to calcium homeostasis disturbances and can change mitochondrial dynamics. The aim of this study was to evaluate protein levels and changes in gene transcription on human WFS cell model under experimental ER stress. Methods: We performed transcriptomic and proteomic analysis on WFS human cell model - skin fibroblasts reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and then into neural stem cells (NSC) with subsequent ER stress induction using tunicamycin (TM). Results were cross-referenced with publicly available RNA sequencing data in hippocampi and hypothalami of mice with WFS1 deficiency. Results: Proteomic analysis identified specific signal pathways that differ in NSC WFS cells from healthy ones. Next, detailed analysis of the proteins involved in the mitochondrial function showed the down-regulation of subunits of the respiratory chain complexes in NSC WFS cells, as well as the up-regulation of proteins involved in Krebs cycle and glycolysis when compared to the control cells. Based on pathway enrichment analysis we concluded that in samples from mice hippocampi the mitochondrial protein import machinery and OXPHOS were significantly down-regulated. Conclusions: Our results show the functional and morphological secondary mitochondrial damage in patients with WFS.
Women In Neurosurgery: A Critical Assessment of The State of The Specialty in Turkey
Authors: KUZUCU PELİN , EVLEKSİZ Demet , GÖKALP Elif , ÖZIŞIK PINAR , GÜNGÖR Abuzer
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND: Although at least half of medical students are women, neurosurgery is not often preferred by women, and the proportion of female neurosurgeons who can participate in the academic platform is very low. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to show the role of female neurosurgeons in the Turkish Neurosurgical Society.METHODS: We examined the age, academic rank, years of work in the profession, membership rate in society subgroups, h-index parameters, and relationships of certificated female neurosurgeons registered in the Turkish Neurosurgical Society. We examined gender rate differences between society subgroups using chi-square tests. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS: There are currently 94 board-certified female neurosurgeons between the ages of 31 and 92 years; 10 are full professors (10.6%), 16 are associate professors (17 %), 5 are assistant professors (5.3 %), and 63 are neurosurgery specialist physicians (67 %). Female neurosurgeons are present among six of the subfields categorized by the Turkish Neurosurgical Society: 7 in pediatric neurosurgery (11.47%); 8 in spinal and peripheral nerve surgery (2.4%); 3 in neurovascular surgery (2.02%); 7 in functional neurosurgery (5.8%); 11 in neuroanatomy (9.2%); and 23 in neurooncology (6.9%).CONCLUSIONS: The number of female neurosurgeons in Turkey continues to grow each year. To increase the proportion of women in this field, it is important to support female neurosurgeons and enable them to take on more tasks.
The Lymph Node Ratio Optimizes Staging System while Adjuvant Chemotherapy Plays an Invalid Role for Patients with Nonmetastatic Colorectal Neuroendocrine Carcinomas: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis of Patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End-Results Database
Authors: Chen Xiaoxiao , Zheng Hongjuan , Zhang Xia , Tang Wanfen , Zhou Shishi , Xu Xifeng , Fu Jianfei , Wang Qinghua
Published: July 2021

Objective: Colorectal neuroendocrine carcinoma (CRNEC) is rare and little is known about survival benefit between lymph node ratio (LNR) and improved overall survival (OS), and so is the adjuvant chemotherapy (AC). We aim to evaluate the survival benefit of LNR and AC in patients with nonmetastatic CRNEC following resection. Methods: Patients with resected nonmetastatic CRNECs were identified in Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) during year 1992 to 2016. A Log-rank test was conducted to determine the survival difference. The survival benefit was evaluated using a competing-risks regression model and propensity score-matched (PSM) techniques were used to reduce the selection bias.Results: A total of 251 patients met the inclusion criteria, of which, 152 patients (60.56%) received AC. The age of 60 (P=0.848) and number of 12 of resected regional lymph nodes (P=0.082) acted as an optimal cutoff value in terms of survival, failing to reach a significance. Chemotherapy failed to bring survival benefit (hazard ratio [HR], 0.959; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.649-1.416; P=0.832). Current N classification was not a significant predictor of patient survival (N1: P = 0.174; N2: P=0.028, compared to N0, respectively). Multivariate analyses explored the revised Nr classification, based on LNR of 0.30 and 0.75 as cutoff value (Nr0: LNR£0.30; Nr1: 0.30.75), as an independent prognostic factor (Nr1: P = 0. 003; Nr2: P<0.001, compared to Nr0, respectively). With the foundation of revised Nr classification, a revised TNrM was proposed for nonmetastatic CRNEC: stage I (T1–2Nr0), stage II (T1-2Nr1 or T3Nr0–1 or T4Nr0), and stage III (TxNr2 or T4Nr1). TNrM stage had better stratification according to Kaplan-Meier survival curves (P <0.001). Conclusions: AC seems invalid for improving the survival of patients with nonmetastatic CRNECs following resection. The LNR more accurately predict survival of CRNEC patients than current N classification.
Determination and Analysis of Land Deformation in Nairobi City County Based ALOS/Palsar and Sentinel-1 InSAR Processing
Authors: KIRUI PIUS , Oiro Samson , Waithaka Hunja , Odera Patroba , Riedel Björn , Gerke Markus
Published: July 2021

Nairobi city is one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa. The rapid development has put pressure on the existing resources such as water resulting in overexploitation of groundwater. Nairobi had been reported to be susceptible to environmental hazards such as subsidence associated with the overexploitation of groundwater due to depletion of its aquifer. However, the subsidence has not been empirically quantified because Kenya lacks a functioning deformation monitoring framework. Through the use of InSAR, land subsidence in Nairobi was spatially quantified for the first time that confirms fears of subsidence as suggested by previous hydrogeological studies. We observed an increase in the spatial extends and the rates of subsidence, the highest rate of subsidence being approx. 62mm/yr located in the largest deforming area West of Nairobi. The deformation can majorly be linked to overexploitation of groundwater as it matches with regions with the highest rate of decline of groundwater levels. However, there exist also subsidence linked to rapid development. Given the significance of Nairobi to the Kenyan economy, the ripple effects of subsidence could be devastating and measures need to be taken to mitigate them. The deformation map provides an important tool for planning mitigation measures to prevent further deformation such as regulating the drilling of boreholes, planning of construction of buildings and transport networks, and locations for the observation wells for monitoring groundwater levels. It also reinforces the need for updating the geodetic network that has been rendered unreliable due to land subsidence.
3.4 % solar-to-ammonia efficiency from nitrate using Fe single atomic catalyst supported on MoS2 nanosheets
Authors: Li Ji , Zhang Yuan , Liu Chao , Zheng Li Rong , Petit Eddy , Qi Kun , Zhang Yang , Wu Huali , Wang Wensen , Tiberj Antoine , Wang Xuechuan , Chhowalla Manish , Lajaunie Luc , Yu Ruohan , Voiry Damien
Published: July 2021

Electrochemical synthesis of NH3 is a carbon-free alternative to the traditional Haber-Bosch process. The challenge with nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) to NH3 is cleavage of the inert N≡N triple bond of nitrogen gas. Obtaining NH3 from environmental pollutants, such as nitrates or nitrites, is a more practical route than NRR. However, reduction of nitrates or nitrites to ammonia is currently hampered by modest Faradaic efficiencies, typically below 10 %. Here, we report a novel heterogeneous catalyst based on iron (Fe) single-atoms supported on two-dimensional MoS2 (Fe-MoS2) for the nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR). We have found that Fe-MoS2 exhibits remarkable performance with a maximum Faradaic efficiency of 98 % for NO3RR to NH3 at an overpotential of -0.48 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) as confirmed by our isotopic nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses. Density function theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the enhanced selectivity for the production of NH3 from single Fe atoms supported on MoS2 is attributed to a reduced energy barrier of 0.38 eV associated with de-oxidation of *NO to *N – the usual potential limiting step in NO3RR. We assembled our catalyst in a two-electrode electrolyzer coupled to an InGaP/GaAs/Ge triple-junction solar cell to demonstrate a solar-to-ammonia (STA) conversion efficiency of 3.4 % and a yield rate of 0.03 mmol h-1 cm-2 equivalent to 510 µg h-1 cm-2. Our results open new avenues for design of single-atom catalysts (SAC) for the realization of solar-driven ammonia production.
Long-Term Subculture Affects Rooting Competence via Changes in the Hormones and Protein Profiles in Cedrela Fissilis Vell. (Meliaceae) Shoots
Authors: Oliveira Tadeu dos Reis , Balfagón Damián , Sousa Kariane Rodrigues , Aragão Victor Paulo Mesquita , de Oliveira Leandro Francisco , Floh Eny Iochevet Segal , Silveira Vanildo , Gómez-Cadenas Aurelio , Santa-Catarina Claudete
Published: July 2021

Long-term subculture plays an essential role in the large-scale multiplication and production of somatic plantlets. We investigated the effects of long-term subculture on in vitro shoot development and ex vitro rooting associated with changes in the hormones and protein profiles in C. fissilis. The number of subcultures of shoots induced a decrease in the ex vitro rooting response. The reduction in adventitious root (AR) formation was associated with decreases in the contents of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA), 12-oxo phytodienoic acid (OPDA), putrescine (Put), and spermine and increases in jasmonic acid (JA), jasmonoyl-isoleucine, trans-cinnamic acid, and salicylic acid contents in shoots at the fourth subculture compared to the first. The ornithine decarboxylase enzyme preferentially functions in the Put biosynthesis pathway and was related to the highest AR formation in shoots at the first subculture. Down-accumulation of the auxin-binding protein ABP19a in shoots from the fourth subculture compared to the first subculture was related to a decrease in both IAA contents and AR formation. In addition, down-accumulation of glucose-6-phosphate isomerase, glutamine synthetase leaf isozyme chloroplastic, 5-methyltetrahydropteroyltriglutamate-homocysteine methyltransferase, L-ascorbate peroxidase, cytosolic, monodehydroascorbate reductase, and 2-Cys peroxiredoxin BAS1-like, chloroplastic and up-accumulation of caffeoyl-CoA O-methyltransferase 1 and isoforms of peroxidase 4 proteins in shoots from the fourth relative to the first subculture were associated with a reduction in AR formation. These results showed that the understanding of hormonal and molecular mechanisms related to the potential of AR formation in shoots under successive subcultures is relevant to improving large-scale plantlet production in C. fissilis.
Single Fibre Swelling Behavior for Natural and Man-Made Cellulose Fibres Under Industrial Steeping Conditions
Authors: You Xiang , Chen Feng , Ma Yibo , Roselli Annariikka , Enqvist Eric , Hassi Heikki
Published: July 2021

Swelling behavior of cotton, dissolving wood pulp (DWP), viscose staple fibre (VsF), and Tencel staple fibre (TsF) in varying sodium hydroxide (NaOH) were investigated by means of optical microscopy and were characterized by molecular mass distribution, X-ray diffractometer, and dynamic vapor sorption. Effect of temperature (20-45 °C) and duration (0-120 min) was studied. The results reveal that the swelling ratio of fibre in alkali solution depends on fibre accessibility and NaOH concentration. Among all the materials, VsF exhibited the highest swelling ratio and lowest swelling ratio has been observed for cotton fibre. The results suggest that the swelling is limited by the presence of plant cell wall structures in cotton and DWP, rather from fringed-fibrillar, semi-crystalline sub-structures, which result from the inherent tendency of cellulose molecules to form such structures during the biosynthesis of plant cell walls as well as during the formation of regenerated cellulosic textile fibre in wet-spinning.
Dyslipidemias and 10-Years Cardiovascular Risk Scores in Adults in Asmara, Eritrea: Findings From a Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Achila Oliver Okoth , Fessahye Nahom , Mengstu Samuel Tekle , Habtemikael Naemi Tesfamariam , Werke Wintana Yebio , Zemichael Femal Tesfazghi , Leghese Haben Negash , Weldegegish Thomas Amanuel , Tekeste Tsegay Habteab , Garoy Eyob Yohannes
Published: July 2021

Background: The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of dyslipidemias and associated factors in adults (≥35 to ≤ 85 years) living in Asmara, Eritrea. Methods: A total of 384 (144 (%) males and 242 (%) females, mean age ± SD, 68.06±6.16 years) respondents were randomly selected after stratified multistage sampling. The WHO NCD STEPS instrument version 3.1 questionnaire was used to collect data. Measurements/or analysis including anthropometric, lipid panel, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and blood pressure (BP) were also undertaken. Results: The frequency of dyslipidemia in this population was disproportionately high (87.4%) with the worst affected subgroup in the 51-60 age band. The level of awareness was also low. In terms of individual lipid markers, the proportion were as follows: HDL-C (40 mg/dL men and 50 mg/dL females) (55.2%); TC ≥ 200 mg/d (49.7%); LDL≥130 mg/dL (44.8%); TG≥150 mg/dL (38.1%). The mean ± SD, for HDL-C, TC, LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and TG were 45.28±9.60; 205.24±45.77; 130.77±36.15; 160.22±42.09 and 144.5±61.26 mg/dl, respectively. Regarding NCEP ATP III risk criteria, 17.6%, 19.4%, 16.3%, 19.7%, and 54.7% were in high or very high-risk categories for TC, Non-HDL-C, TG, LDL-C, and HDL-C, respectively. Among all respondents, 59.6% had mixed dyslipidemias with TC+TG+LDL-C dominating. In addition, 27.3%, 28.04%, 23.0%, and 8.6% had abnormalities in 1, 2, 3 and 4 lipid abnormalities, respectively. In terms of Framingham CVD Risk scores, 12.7%, 2.8% were in the high risk and very high-risk strata. Further, the high burden of dyslipidemia coexisted with an equally high burden of abdominal obesity (71.8%), BMI≥25 kg/m2 (44.6%), dysglycemia (24.7%), hypertension (24.4%), and physical inactivity. Dyslipidemia was associated with employment status (ref: unemployed vs. employed, aOR 0.48, 95% CI 0.24–0.97, p=0.015) and self-employed (aOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.17–1.00, p=0.018); marital status (ref: not married vs married (aOR 2.35, 95% CI 1.19–4.66, p=0.009); increasing DBP (aOR 1.04 mmHg (1.00-1.09)=0.001) and increasing FPG (aOR 1.02 per 1 mg/dL, 95% CI 1.00–1.05, p=0.001). Conclusion: High frequency of poor lipid health may be a prominent contributor to the high burden of CVDs – related mortality and morbidity in Asmara, Eritrea. Consequently, efforts directed at early detection, and evidence-based interventions are warranted.
Kinematics of an intervertebral disc with type 1 Modic change: mechanical and non-mechanical causes
Authors: Yamada Yuji , Morimoto Masatoshi , Maeda Toru , Tomiyama Syogo , Takami Hirofumi , Yoshida Naoyuki , Kashima Masahiro , Sairyo Koichi
Published: July 2021

BackgroundType 1 Modic change (MC) is associated with chronic low back pain and attributed to segmental instability. However, the relationship between type 1 MC and segmental instability is unclear. This study sought to clarify the role of mechanical abnormalities in type 1 MC.MethodReview of magnetic resonance images obtained for 727 patients over a 1-year period at our institution revealed 161 cases of type 1 MC. In 86 of these, the following indicators of mechanical abnormality could be evaluated on dynamic radiographs: segmental scoliosis (> 5°), forward slippage (> 1%), and posterior disc opening in flexion. Patients with one or more of these abnormalities were allocated to a mechanical group (n = 62, 70%) and those with no abnormality to a non-mechanical group (n = 26, 30%). The Pfirrmann grade of disc degeneration at the affected level was compared between the groups.ResultsSegmental scoliosis, slippage, and posterior opening was observed in 34, 21 and 37 cases, respectively. Severe disc degeneration (grade IV or V) was present in 43 cases (69%) in the mechanical group and in 12 cases (46%) in the non-mechanical group; the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.04).ConclusionWe propose that there are mechanical and non-mechanical variants of type 1 MC.
Antibacterial Activity of Ethyl Acetate Extract of Endophytic Fungus (Paraconiothyrium Brasiliense) Through Targeting Pathogenesis Related Dihydropteroate Synthase (DHPS)
Authors: Sathiyaseelan Anbazhagan , Saravanakumar Kandasamy , Anand Mariadoss Arokia Vijay , Wang M
Published: July 2021

Endophytic fungi are innumerable sources of bioactive metabolites with various biomedical applications. Hence, this study was aimed to isolate and identify the endophytic fungus Paraconiothyrium brasiliense (PB) from the fruit of Capsicum annuum and evaluated their biochemical, antimicrobial, antioxidant, cell viability, and cytotoxicity behavior. Results showed that ethyl acetate extract (EAE) of PE contains flavonoid (31.53 ± 0.9 mg of QE/g of extract) and phenolic (2.59 ± 0.06 mg of GAE/g of extract). The PB-EAE showed significant antioxidant activity in terms of free radicals such as DPPH, ABTS, and Fe3+ scavenging. The antioxidant potential of PB-EAE reflects in normal cell viability and anticancer activity against prostate cancer (PC3) cells. The bacterial inhibitory activity of PB-EAE was equal to commercial antibiotic tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH). Further, GC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of volatile molecules such as o-cymene (CH3C6H4CH(CH3)2), dipentene (C10H16), γ-terpinene (C10H16), 4-carvomenthenol (C10H18O), heneicosane (CH3(CH2)19CH3), 2,5-piperazinedione (C4H6N2O2). Also, molecular docking analysis demonstrated the significant interactions between the compounds of PB-EAE and Dihydropteroate Synthase (Protein ID:5JQ9; DHPS). This study revealed that endophytic P. brasiliense from Capsicum annuum could be a novel source for the isolation of antimicrobials.
Adaptation Strategy In Attachment–Detachment Cycles When Faced With Changes In Incline And Orientation During Gecko Climbing
Authors: Zong Weijia , Wang Zhouyi , Wang Bingcheng , Zhang Zhourong , Yin Chang , Dai Zhendong
Published: July 2021

Background: Geckos are endowed with the extraordinary capacity to move quickly in various environments; they benefit from efficient control for the complex footpads. Research on the locomotor behavior and contact status in the attachment–detachment (A-D) cycle of the footpads for diverse challenges is linked to the revelation of regulatory strategy. At present, there is a lack of systematic research for the A-D cycle, which limits the understanding of the adhesive locomotion mechanism.Methods: The A-D cycle that facilitates the level and up–down locomotion on inclined and vertical surfaces of Gekko gecko was investigated to clarify the locomotion postures and durations in the release, swing, contact, and adhesion stages, respectively. This reveals the relationship between the structure and function of the attachment devices, and its regulation when faced with changing locomotion demands.Results: Despite changes in climbing demands, gecko foot locomotion posture (angle extremes and changing trends) in the swing stage, the posture (bending angle: fore 41°, hind 51°) and contact time ratio (7.42%) in the contact stage remain unchanged, which is in contrast with the adjustable postures in the stance phase. Furthermore, the variation range of the forefoot locomotion posture is larger than that of the hindfoot, and the forefoot angle changing trend is opposite to that of the hindfoot, indicating that the combination of anatomical structure and functional demands results in the differentiation in the adaptation mode of the A-D cycle for the fore- and hindfoot. Conclusions: Gecko’s fore- and hindfoot have evolved different structures to undertake differential functions. The function (adhesion) for various locomotion demands relates to footpad deployment in the stance phase but is unaffected by the regulations (postures and durations) in the swing and contact stages. The results demonstrate that the unified adaptation strategy reduces the diversity and complexity of the control. It advances the understanding of the adhesive locomotion mechanism, reflects the structural evolution and adaptation strategy of attachment devices for functional requirements and provides biological inspiration for effective design and control of adhesion robots.
High Expression of PYK2 is Associated with Poor Prognosis and Cancer Progression in Early- Stage Cervical Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Can , Zhu Xinghua , Li Yong , Shao Jia , Xu Haibo , Chen Lei , Dan Youli , He Aiqin , Jin Hua
Published: July 2021

Background: Proline-rich tyrosine kinase-2 (PYK2), also known as calcium dependent tyrosine kinase (CADTK), regulates different signal transduction cascades that control cell proliferation, migration and invasion. However, the role of PYK2 in cervical cancer remains to be elucidated.Methods: PYK2 expression was detected in tissue microarray and cervical cancer cell lines. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate its clinicopathological significance. Small interfering RNA (SiRNA) was employed to suppress endogenous PYK2 expression in cervical cancer cells to observe the biological function.Results: PYK2 expression was up-regulated in cervical cancer specimens compared with paired adjacent normal cervical tissue samples. Statistical analyses indicated that PYK2 expression might be an independent prognostic indicator for patients with early-stage cervical cancer. A nomogram model was constructed based on PYK2 expression and other clinicopathological risk factors, and it performed well in predicting patients survival. In cellular studies, down-regulation of PYK2 remarkably inhibited cellular proliferation, migration and invasion.Conclusion: PYK2 expression possessed the potential to serve as a novel prognostic markerin cervical cancer patients.
Intraoperative Hyperglycemia May be Associated with an Increased Risk of Myocardial Injury After Non-Cardiac Surgery in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Kim Sojin , Park Jungchan , Yang Kwangmo , Choi Jin-ho , Kim Kyunga , Sung Ji Dong , Ahn Joonghyun , Lee Seung-Hwa
Published: July 2021

Background: Hyperglycemia in surgical candidates is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. We aimed to evaluate the effect of intraoperative blood glucose level on the incidence of myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery (MINS) in diabetic patients.Methods: Diabetic patients with available intraoperative blood glucose measurement during non-cardiac surgery were enrolled in this study. Based on the highest intraoperative blood glucose level, patients were stratified into two groups; the normal group (intraoperative peak glucose < 180mg/dL) and the hyperglycemia group (intraoperative peak glucose ≥ 180mg/dL). The primary outcome was the incidence of MINS, and secondary outcomes were in-hospital and 30-day mortalities.Results: Of the 11,302 diabetic patients, 8,337 patients were in the normal group (73.8%), and 2,965 patients were in the hyperglycemia group (26.2%). After inverse probability weighting adjustment, MINS was significantly higher in the hyperglycemia group (24.0% vs 17.2%; odds ratio [OR], 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14 – 1.40; p < 0.001). In addition, in-hospital and 30-day mortalities were also higher in the hyperglycemia group compared to the normal group (4.2% vs 2.3%, hazard ratio [HR], 1.39; 95% CI, 1.07 - 1.81; p=0.01, and 3.1% vs 1.8%; HR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.31 - 2.36; p < 0.001, respectively). Receiver-operating characteristic plots showed that the threshold of glucose level related to MINS was 149mg/dL.Conclusion: Intraoperative hyperglycemia was associated with an increased MINS incidence and postoperative mortality in diabetic patients. Intraoperative blood glucose control may be helpful in preventing MINS.
Reduced mtDNA Copy Number in the Prefrontal Cortex of C9ORF72 patients
Authors: Alvarez-Mora Maria Isabel , Podlesniy Petar , Riazuelo Teresa , Molina-Porcel Laura , Gelpi Ellen , Rodriguez-Revenga Laia
Published: July 2021

Hexanucleotide repeat expansion in C9ORF72 gene is the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia (C9ALS/FTD). Loss of C9ORF72 protein function and a toxic gain-of-function directly by the RNA or RAN translation have been proposed as triggering pathological mechanisms, along with the accumulation of TDP-43 protein. In addition, mitochondrial defects have been described to be a major driver of disease initiation. Mitochondrial DNA copy number has been proposed as a useful biomarker of mitochondrial dysfunction. The aim of our study was to determine the presence of mtDNA copy number alterations in C9ALS/FTD patients. Therefore, we assessed mtDNA copy number in postmortem prefrontal cortex from 18 C9ORF72 brain donors and 9 controls using digital droplet PCR. A statistically significant decrease of 50% was obtained when comparing C9ORF72 samples and controls. This decrease was independent of age and gender. The reduction of mtDNA copy number was found to be higher in patient samples presenting abundant TDP-43 protein inclusions. A growing number of studies demonstrated the influence of mtDNA copy number reduction on neurodegeneration. Our results provide new insights into the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of C9ALS/FTD.
It’s About Time: Examining Inequality in the Time
Cost of Waiting
Authors: Holt Stephen , Vinopal Katie
Published: July 2021

Time spent waiting for services represents unproductive time imposed on individuals trying to fulfill basic needs. While qualitative and ethnographic work has found that income disparities also translate into disparities in time kept waiting for services, little evidence exists to confirm the scale and extent of socioeconomic differences in waiting time. We use time diary data from the nationally representative American Time Use Survey (ATUS) to estimate the difference between high- and low-income people in time spent waiting for basic services. We find that, relative to high-income people, low-income people are 3 percentage-points more likely to spend time waiting on an average day and their waiting spells are 12 minutes longer on average. The income gap in waiting time cannot be explained by differences in family obligations, demographics, education, work time, or travel time. Further, we find that high-income Black people experience the same higher average wait times as low-income people regardless of race. Our results suggest socioeconomic and racial inequalities in neighborhood quality, work schedule flexibility, and access to services exacerbate inequality in daily quality of life and the availability of productive time.
Multidrug-Resistance and Virulence-Related Properties of Diarrheagenic Escherichia Coli in Urban River: A Possible Source and Dissemination of Human Infections
Authors: Nogueira Barbara Araújo , Olivella Julianna Giordano Botelho , Sued-Karam Bruna Ribeiro , Ribeiro Paula Marcele Afonso Pereira , Oliveira Valmir , de Souza Claudio Rocha , Fracalanzza Sergio Eduardo Longo , Ignácio Ana Claudia de Paula Rosa , Mattos-Guaraldi Ana Luíza
Published: July 2021

The presence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) E. coli harboring virulence pathotypes in aquatic systems is a public health concern due to an increase number of cases of infections and outbreaks in industrialized and developing countries. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of Joana river, located at Rio de Janeiro, by analyzing E. coli bacteria contamination and to investigate virulence properties and MDR profiles by phenotypic and genotypic methods, including bacterial interaction with Caco-2 cells. A total of 34 E. coli were identified by MALDI-TOF and 20 E. coli were characterized as MDR when submitted to antimicrobial susceptibility test. Evaluation by multiplex-PCR of MDR E. coli demonstrated the presence of virulence pathotypes: EHEC (stx1, stx2, eae genes), STEC (stx2 gene) and EIEC/STEC (stx2, iaL genes). Virulence potential was demonstrated by the ability to adhere and survive within Caco-2 cells of MDR E. coli pathotypes (n = 4). In conclusion, this study demonstrates the presence of diarrheagenic MDR E. coli in river water at Rio de Janeiro. The possibility of aquatic environment dissemination of antimicrobial resistance and human contamination leading to community and nosocomial infections due to virulent MDR E. coli water-borne pathogens is a matter of concern.
Genetic variation at RAB3GAP2 and its role in exercise-related adaptation and recovery
Authors: Ström Kristoffer , Oskolkov Nikolay , Karaderi Tugce , Kalamajski Sebastian , Ekström Ola , Miyamoto-Mikami Eri , Ladenvall Claes , Kakulidis Ellen , Reid Steven , Andersson Anna-Maria Dutius , Kryvokhyzha Dmytro , Zhang Enming , Fadista João , Iemitsu Motoyuki , Mahajan Anubha , Ahlqvist Emma , Prasad Rashmi , Pruefer Kay , Sabater-Lleal Maria , Smith Nicholas , Dehghan Abbas Abbas , Lind Lars , McGawley Kerry , Morris Andrew , Lehtovirta Mikko , Szczerbiński Łukasz , Kretowski Adam , Wang Guan , Pitsiladis Yannis , Santos-Lozano Alejandro , Lucia Alejandro , Fuku Noriyuku , Holmberg Hans-Christer , Groop Leif , Gomez Maria , Eriksson Karl-Fredrik , Pietras Kristian , Lindgren Cecilia , Franks Paul , Hansson Ola
Published: July 2021

Skeletal muscle fiber composition and capillary density influence physical performance and whole-body metabolic properties. ~45% of the variance in fiber type is heritable, which motivated us to perform a genome-wide association study of skeletal muscle histology from 656 Swedish men. Four independent variants were associated (p < 5x10− 8) with proportion of type IIx fibers or capillary-to-fiber ratio (C:F). The strongest signal localized to the rs115660502 variant, where the G-allele corresponded with increased C:F and reduced skeletal muscle expression of the proximal gene, RAB3 GTPase Activating Non-Catalytic Protein Subunit 2 (RAB3GAP2). The G-allele was less frequent in elite short-track sprinters and more frequent in endurance athletes than in matched non-athlete (population) controls; RAB3GAP2 expression was reduced by high-intensity intermittent training. RAB3GAP2 protein was not uniformly expressed in muscle tissue but localized to the endothelium and capillaries. Experimental reduction of RAB3GAP2 in human endothelial cells led to increased tube formation in vitro, to regulation of secreted factors promoting angiogenesis and T-cell activation, to reduced intracellular levels of von Willebrand factor (VWF) and, post-implantation, to increased endothelial cell density in vivo in mice. The amount of RAB3GAP2 in skeletal muscle was positively associated with exercise-induced release of VWF in vivo in humans. By regulating the release of protein factors (VWF, CD70, TNC, TNXB, MCP1, IGFBP3, COL1A1, TFPI2 and tPA), RAB3GAP2 influences fitness adaptation after exercise by improving muscle healing and promotion of capillary formation.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties Investigation of Ni35A-TiC Composite Coating Deposited on AISI 1045 Steel by Laser Cladding
Authors: Zhang Hao , Lian Guofu , Cao Qiang , Pan Yingjun , Zhang Yang
Published: July 2021

In this research, the TiC-Ni35A composite coating was fabricated on the AISI 1045 steel substrate by laser cladding process. The cross-sectional morphology, microstructure, micro-hardness, and wear resistance of coatings obtained under different laser energy densities (E) and TiC powder ratios (PR) were analyzed. According to the results, all the coating had a reliable metallurgical bonding with the AISI 1045 steel substrate. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the coating phases were Ni and TiC. The average microhardness of the Ni35A-80wt.% TiC coating reached up to 75.12 HRC. The minimum coefficient of friction of the composite coating was only about 30% of the AISI 1045 substrate. The wear form was mainly adhesive wear when altering the TiC powder ratios, while the wear form also contained abrasion wear under different energy densities. The ability of decomposition and re-nucleation of TiC was significantly improved with the increase of laser energy densities and the decrease of TiC powder ratios. The micro-hardness, wear resistance, and coefficient of friction of the composite coating were improved because of the TiC strengthening phase particles. Compared with the AISI 1045 steel substrate, the micro-hardness and wear resistance of the composite coating was increased by 5.29 times and 6.26 times, respectively.
Kinetic, Catalytic and Thermodynamic Properties of Immobilized Milk Clotting Enzyme on Activated Chitosan Polymer and its Application in Cheese Making
Authors: Ahmed Samia , Abdel-Naby Mohamed A. , Abdel-Fattah Ahmed F.
Published: July 2021

Milk clotting enzyme (MCE) from Bacillus circulans 25 was immobilized by covalent binding, ionic binding and entrapment methods using various carriers. MCE covalently immobilized on activated chitosan polymer with the bifunctional agent glutaraldehyde (Ch-MCE) exhibited highest immobilization yield (74.6 %). Comparing to the native MCE, Ch-MCE exhibited higher optimum pH, higher optimum reaction temperature, lower activation energy, higher half-life time, lower deactivation rate constant and higher energy for denaturation. After immobilization, maximum reaction rate, Michaelis-Menten constant, specificity constant, turnover number, and catalytic efficiency of the enzyme were significantly changed. Calculated thermodynamic parameters for denaturation (enthalpy, entropy and Gibbs free energy) confirmed that the catalytic properties of MCE were significantly improved after immobilization. Reusability tests showed that after 7 catalytic cycles, the Ch-MCE retained about 71 % of its activity confirming its suitability for industrial applications.
Internalization and Trafficking of CSPG-Bound Recombinant VAR2CSA Lectins in Cancer Cells
Authors: Wang Chris Kedong , Nelepcu Irina , Hui Desmond , Oo Htoo Zarni , Truong Sarah , Zhao Sarah , Esfandnia Shaghayegh , Ghaidi Fariba , Adomat Hans , Dagil Robert , Gustavsson Tobias , Choudhary Swati , Salanti Ali , Sorensen Poul , Al-Nakouzi Nader , Daugaard Mads
Published: July 2021

Proteoglycans are proteins that are modified with glycosaminoglycan chains. Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) are currently being exploited as targets for drug-delivery in various cancer indications, however basic knowledge on how CSPGs are internalized in tumor cells is lacking. In this study we took advantage of a recombinant CSPG-binding lectin VAR2CSA (rVAR2) to track internalization and cell fate of CSPGs in tumor cells. We found that rVAR2 is internalized into cancer cells via multiple internalization mechanisms after initial docking on cell surface CSPGs. Regardless of the internalization pathway used, CSPG-bound rVAR2 was trafficked to the early endosomes in an energy-dependent manner but not further transported to the lysosomal compartment. Instead, internalized CSPG-bound rVAR2 proteins were secreted with exosomes to the extracellular environment in a strictly chondroitin sulfate-dependent manner. In summary, our work describes the cell fate of rVAR2 proteins in tumor cells after initial binding to CSPGs, which can be further used to inform development of rVAR2-drug conjugates and other therapeutics targeting CSPGs.
Comparison of Volcanic Explosions in Japan Using Impulsive Ionospheric Disturbances
Authors: Cahyadi Mokhamad Nur , Handoko Eko Yuli , Rahayu Ririn Wuri , Heki Kosuke
Published: July 2021

Using the total ionospheric electron content (TEC) data from ground-based global satellite navigation system (GNSS) receivers in Japan, we compared ionospheric responses to five explosive volcanic eruptions 2004-2015 of the Asama, Shin-Moe, Sakurajima, and Kuchinoerabu-jima volcanoes. The TEC records show N-shaped disturbances with a period ~80 seconds propagating outward with the acoustic wave speed in the F region of the ionosphere. The amplitudes of these TEC disturbances are a few percent of the background absolute vertical TEC. We propose to use such relative amplitudes as a new index for the intensity of volcanic explosions.
‘Honeytrapping’ Pseudomonas From Water: A Sustainable Prototype For Water Disinfection
Authors: Ranade Hemangi , Paliwal Priya , Paul Debarati , Datta Manali
Published: July 2021

This paper introduces a novel prototype for the removal of Pseudomonas from water samples. Bacterial cells have the tendency to get attracted towards specific chemicals (chemotaxis); a ‘honeytrap’ strip was conceptualized by integrating a combination of serine, pseudomonas specific chemo-attractant and honey to attract and inhibit the bacteria in situ. Honey, a natural antimicrobial agent, has garnered attention in its effective inhibitory role in Pseudomonal biofilms and wound infections. Dipping serine side of the strip attracted bacteria towards honeytrap, wherebythe porous nature of the strip facilitated the ‘trapping’ and subsequent diffusion of the bacterial cells towards honey-adsorbed end of the strip. This ‘honeytrap’ reportedly leads to the targeted elimination of Pseudomonas, hence facilitating its removal. The percentage efficacy of this ‘honeytrap’ device is 96% with a log reduction equivalent to 1.6 within a time frame of 2 hours. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, although, not a natural contaminant of potable water, enters circulation due to improperly maintained plumbing fixtures and storage facilities. Honeytrap strip is an easy to use, biodegradable and cost effective sustainable solution, and thus a scaled up version ofthis device may enablesubstantial improvement in quality of potable water.
Enhancing Hydrogen Productivity of Photosynthetic Bacteria from the Formulated Carbon Components of Lignocellulose
Authors: Zhang Chuan , Wang Guihong , Ma Shuaishuai , Huang Hao , Ma Yixiao , Li Zhaoran
Published: July 2021

To develop an efficient photofermentative process capable of higher rate biohydrogen production using carbon components of lignocellulosic hydrolysate, a desired carbon substrate by mixing xylose with glucose was formulated. Effects of crucial process parameters affecting cellular biochemical reaction of hydrogen by photosynthetic bacteria (PSB), i.e variation in initial concentration of total carbon, glucose content in initial carbon substrate, as well as light intensity were experimental investigated using response surface methodology (RSM) with a Box-Benhnken design (BBD). Hydrogen production rate (HPR) in the maximum value of 30.6 mL h− 1 L− 1 was attained under conditions of 39 mM initial concentration of total carbon, 59% (mol/mol) glucose content in initial carbon substrate and 12.6 W m− 2 light intensity at light wavelength of 590 nm. Synergic effects of metabolizing such a well formulated carbon substrate for sustaining the active microbial synthesis to sufficiently accumulate biomass in bioreactor, as well as stimulating enzyme activity of nitrogenase for the higher rate biohydrogen production were attributed to this carbon substrate can enable PSB to maintain the relatively consistent microenvironment in suitable culture pH condition during the optimized photofermentative process.
Changes in Microbial Community and Activities in Continuous Pepper Cropping Soil After a Trichoderma Hamatum MHT1134 Application
Authors: Mao Tingting , Jiang Xuanli
Published: July 2021

To clarify the control effects of strain MHT1134 on Fusarium wilt in continuous pepper cropping fields and its regulatory effects on soil microecology, the physical and chemical properties, enzyme activities, community structures of soil samples from five field types were analysed. Samples were taken from fields in their 1st, 5th and 9th planting years, and at 1 and 2 years after the application of strain MHT1134 in 9th planting year field. The MHT1134 control effects on pepper wilt after 1 and 2 years were 63.03% and 70.21%, respectively. 4 kinds of physical and chemical indexes and 6 kinds of enzyme activities in soil were increased. With the continuous cropping years increased, the microbial abundance and diversity decreasing significantly. The relative abundances of Fusarium, Gibberella increased along with the planting years, but decreased after the MHT11134 application. However, the relative abundances of Trichoderma and Chaetomium significantly increased. Additionally, as the cropping years increased, the soil abundance of Actinobacteria gradually decreased, but it significantly increased from 17.56% to 22.44% after the MHT1134 application. Thus, strain MHT1134 effectively improved the microbial community structure of the soil, and it also positively affected soil quality. A continuous application may improve the control effect.