bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of 2,4 Dichlorophenoxy Acetic Acid (Herbicide) on the Haematological and Histopathological Parameters of Freshwater Fish Oreochromis mossambicus
Authors: Santhosh Abhirami , P.K. Mubashira , Joseph Pawlin Vasanthi
Published: September 2022

The tilapia fish Oreochromis mossambicus was used to evaluate the sublethal toxic effects of herbicide, 2,4 Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid. Fish were exposed to sublethal concentration (40 mg/l) of 2,4 D for 30 days. The control group was also run simultaneously without any treatment. Haematological parameters such as RBC count, Hematocrit indices and platelet count were decreased while leucocyte count increased significantly. The significant decrease in erythrocyte count indicates osmoregulatory dysfunction, reduction of erythropoietic activity and anemic response. The reduction of hematocrit indices indicate worsening of organisms state, less oxygen carrying capacity, hypochronic microlytic anemia. Increase in WBC count indicates the induced proliferation, and increased antibody production for survival and recovery of the fish exposed to sublethal concentration of herbicide. Histological examination revealed that 2,4 D exposure caused degeneration and congestion, hyperplasia in gills. Liver cells showed extensive fatty degeneration and congestion in liver parenchyma compared to control tissues. Thus, the present study clearly demonstrates that exposure to sublethal concentration of 2,4 D to fish may provoke an adverse effects on vital organs.
Anticancer Activity of Noni Fruit (Morinda citrifolia) Extracts Against Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line (HepG-2) and its Appototic Mechanism
Authors: Gopal Rengaswamy
Published: September 2022

Morinda citrifolia L. (Noni) fruits have been used for thousands of years for the treatment of many health problems including cancer, cold, diabetes, flu, hypertension, and pain. Plant extracts have reported for several therapeutic benefits, but extraction of individual compound from the extract often exhibits limited clinical utility as the synergistic effect of various natural ingredients gets lost. They generally constitute polyphenols and flavonoids. Studies have suggested that these phytochemicals, especially polyphenols, display high antioxidant properties, which help to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases, such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that Noni fruits have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-dementia, liver-protective, anticancer, analgesic, and immunomodulatory effects. In this study M. citrifolia fruit extracts were evaluated for its phytochemical profiling and anticancer activity. The extracts exhibited potential anticancer activity thus the methanolic extract of M. citrifolia can be used as novel anticancer agent in future.
Impacts of Herbicide Oxadiargyl on the Lifespan, Fecundity and Development of a Detritivore Springtail, Cyphoderus javanus
Authors: L.R. Bhavya , Kumar M.G. Sanal
Published: September 2022

Collembolans are tiny ubiquitous apterygote soil arthropods which plays a pivotal role in soil genesis, organic residues disintegration and soil fertility. The present study was focussed to investigate the deleterious effects of commonly used herbicide oxadiargyl on the lifespan, fecundity and development of an ecologically significant detritivore collembolan Cyphoderus javanus. Extensive application of herbicides had a significant effect on survival rates, fecundity, longevity and growth of Cyphoderus javnaus. The results revealed that rise in the concentration of herbicide negatively affects the survival rates and life history traits of this collembolan. In addition to killing non-target insects, indiscriminate utilization of herbicides in agricultural fields can cause unfavourable changes in the biological balance as well as results in environmental degradation.
Diversity and Distribution of Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Sunderbans, West Bengal, India
Authors: Damayanti Bakra , Sheela S.  , Silanjan Bhattacharyya
Published: September 2022

The present study deals with the biodiversity of ants in Indian Sunderbans. Study locations were selected from reclaimed area of eastern, central and western sector of Indian Sunderbans. Ants were collected randomly during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon period from different habitats of selected locations likely homestead orchard, paddy field, sandy beach, mangrove patch and waste land by using honey bait and hand picking method. Altogether 62 species of ants under 30 genera and 5 subfamilies were identified from the inhabited areas of Sunderbans. The present study revealed that the predominant subfamily was the Myrmicinae with 12 genera and 28 species followed by Formicinae, Ponerinae and Dolichoderinae. The genus Camponotus was found to be the most speciose genus in all the studied locations. Total 4 genera namely Camponotus, Pheidole, Lepisiota and Crematogaster were common in all the six habitats. The species richness of ant communities in the mangrove habitat was found relatively poor than agricultural land and homestead orchard. The ant genera Monomorium, Camponotus, Pheidole, Crematogaster, Paratrechina, Lepisiota, Tapinoma, Diacamma, Nylanderia, Tetramorium, Pseudoneoponera, Trichomyrmex, Iridomyrmex, Solenopsis, Carebara, Dolichoderus, Dilobocondyla, Leptogenys, Oecophylla, Cataulacus and Tetraponera were found in both pre- and post-monsoon seasons. Shannon diversity index and Simpson diversity index values indicated that the ant community is mature and stable in studied locations of Sunderbans.
Wetlands of India with Reference to Ecosystem Wealth, Threats and Management
Authors: Manjurmahammad Dedhrotiya
Published: September 2022

India has an unusual wealth of wetland ecosystems. Wetlands are established as passages between land and water ecosystem. They donate versatile benefits, especially in the field of the ecosystem, economy and scenic beauty. They are fertile ecosystems that help elective and special biodiversity and habitats and famous for their divergent welfares and courtesies. These ecosystems do not only enhance agricultural impacts on the environment but also provide ecosystem benefits to human society and are under prodigious stress due to industrial pollution, agricultural and urbanization, tourism and fisheries and many more. The present review is focused on the value of wetlands, providing distribution of wetlands and major threats to wetland. It also provides information on how a series of works had been done to save this vulnerable ecosystem.
Effect of Organic Foliar Spray of Fermented Fish Waste (Gunapasalem) on Growth and Yield of Radish, Raphanus sativus
Authors: M.P. Srikumaran , P.K. Kaleena , V.N. Maheswari , G.S. Rekha , D. Elumalai , Babu M.
Published: September 2022

Foliar sprays are leaf fertilizers which enhance the respiration and transports nutrients throughout the plant. They also mix with soil to support the plant from root. Gunapasalem is prepared from marine fish waste mixed with jaggery and cow urine. The mixture is kept undisturbed for 30 days to make a fine solution. Extract from Garlic is mixed along with ginger, cow urine and asafetida paste to formulate NCBT 01 pest repellent. This mixture is then diluted with non-chlorinated water. A field study was experimented with selected species of Radish plant which were sprayed with Gunapasalem and NCBT at regular intervals. The growth and development of plants is then compared along with control and chemically fertilized plants.
Reactive Oxygen Species Effects on Mitochondrial Dynamicity that may Lead to Parkinson's Disease: A Review
Authors: Diptendu Sarkar
Published: September 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD), is the second common and deadliest neuronal and a multisystem disorder that contributes to significant morbidity and healthcare burden in the world. Its causes are poorly understood and there is no proven therapeutic line of attack to foil the disease progression. The neuropathological studies of Parkinson’s disease brains show irreversible relapse of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra and other brain regions, and a simultaneous loss of dopamine (DA) in the striatum may be one of the main reasons for this disease. But now a days it is known that mitochondria, has a great role to promote so many neurological disorders along with Parkinson’s disease. Defects in neuronal development and neuronal plasticity are related with the deregulation of the mitochondrial fusion or fission process. On the other hand result of mitochondrial dis-regulation is, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which also activate some specific pathways that cause ultimately cell damage and finally neurological disorder like PD. In this review it is intended to gather current knowledge about the relation between mitochondria and ROS with PD. It is true that this is playing key role in PD so, targeting all the pathways related to this dysfunction and modification in this field can be helpful to create a new therapy.
Zooplankton Diversity and Seasonal Variation in Population Density of Harsool Dam in India
Authors: Munde A.S.  , More P.R  , Shinde S.E.
Published: September 2022

Zooplankton occupies a central place between autotrophic and heterotrophic and constitutes an important link in the food chain of a freshwater ecosystem. The presence and frequency of zooplankton are always influenced by physical-chemical factors and nutrient content in the water. In the present study, diversity, seasonal fluctuations and correlation coefficients of zooplankton were determined from July 2008 to June 2009 at Harsool Dam in Aurangabad (M.S.), India. A total of 25 species of zooplankton were recorded belonging to order Cladoceran (8 species), Copepoda (5 species), Rotifera (10 species), and Ostracoda (2 species). In this study 10,860 zooplankton (organisms/liter) with a maximum percentage of 31.67% Cladocera, 33.88% Copepoda, 29.65% Rotifera and 4.78% Ostracoda were observed in the Harsool Dam during the study period. Summer showed a longer food chain than other seasons. According to the Shannon Index, the values showed that the waters of the Harsool Dam were contaminated. Homogeneity indices indicated that all species are equally common in a sample.
Biodiversity Indices Pattern of Butterfly in Nasik District (M.S.) India
Authors: Y.B. Telange , M.B. Borade , S.E Shinde
Published: September 2022

Due to their high sensitivity to pollution, butterflies have been considered as bio-indicators to gauge the degree of pollution. In addition to being an essential link in the food chain, they play a crucial role in the pollination of many blooming plants. Many different butterfly species are attracted to various plant species and environments in the Nashik area. The goal of the current study was to count the diversity and abundance of butterflies. The study was conducted in Nashik from January 2021 to December 2021. A review of literature throws light on the importance of butterfly diversity. We have therefore surveyed to know butterfly diversity in Nashik locality by using quantitative techniques. The data was analyzed to understand α and ẞ diversity. K.G.D.M. College campus, Trimbakeshwar, Nandur Madhyameshwar, Vani, and Lasalgaon are the five sites selected for butterfly study. The aims and objective of the study diversity of butterflies are to understand the taxonomic status of butterflies from the study area to see if there was variation in the butterfly community across various sites and to study seasonal distribution, abundance patterns in the butterfly community and diversity indices patterns.
Avifaunal Diversity of Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary and its Adjacent Areas, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Abhay D. Shelke
Published: September 2022

The present study was aimed to observe and record the avifaunal diversity of Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary and its adjacent areas, Maharashtra, India. This study was carried out during October 2021 to July 2022. 210 bird species belonging to 55 families and 17 orders were recorded during the study period. Out of these, 136 species were found Resident (R), 68 species Winter Migrant (WM), 4 species Breeding Migrant (BM) and 2 species were found Passage Migrant (PM). As per the IUCN population status 5 species were found Near Threatened (NT), 1 Critically Endangered (CR), 1 Vulnerable (VU) and 203 species were found Least Concern (LC). Order Passeriformes was found dominant with 25 families and 93 bird species followed by Ciconiformes with 3 families and 19 bird species and Charadriformes with 5 families and 18 bird species. This study will be useful for conservation and protection of avian fauna of the Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary.
Prevalence of Contributing Factors in Water Borne Diseases of Achankovil River with Respect to Coliforms and Thermotolerant Coliforms
Authors: Mohan Parvathy , Baby Johnson , Prasad G.  , Biju A.
Published: September 2022

Many people around the world struggle to get good drinking water and generating safe drinking water is thus very important for human development. Moreover, Water- borne diseases are recognized to be a great concern in many provinces over the globe. Studies concerning all forms of freshwater resources with special inference on the various contributing factors in water-borne diseases epidemiology and water pollution assume significance in this perspective. Thermotolerant coliforms including Escherichia coli were enumerated from the river water samples by employing the Manual on Analysis Microbiology. The same manual was also used to analyse the Total Coliforms. Statistical analysis of data was carried out by SPSS software version 20. The prominent role of major contributing factors in context with the chance of water pollution in terms of Total coliforms and thermotolerant coliforms has been validated. The seasonal changes in the quality of water with an increase in coliform counts during the monsoon season may affect the water treatment system set up for public distribution of drinking water. The findings can be used as a significant element in various activities that focus on the sustainable use of freshwater and diminishing the risk of waterborne diseases.
Municipal Solid Waste as an Alternate Source of Energy: A Review
Authors: Akash Varshney , O. P. Singh
Published: September 2022

Municipal solid waste (MSW) is a big environmental challenge. However; it is a potential source of recycling materials, heat and energy. In developed countries this waste is used as resource to produce energy and compost; whereas in developing countries like India, collection, transportation and disposal of MSW are a big task. Wastes to energy technologies (WTE-T) play important role in sustainable management of MSW throughout the world. These technologies reduce the amount of waste as well as produce energy, which can be used to generate electricity. These include thermochemical treatment technologies, biochemical treatment technologies and utilization of landfill gas. Thermochemical techniques include Incineration, Gasification, Pyrolysis, Plasma arc gasification and Hydrothermal carbonization. Incineration is the most common technique used for treatment of MSW. It reduces 70% mass and 90% volume of MSW and sterile ash remains as byproduct. Gasification is advantageous over incineration, as gases are not released into atmosphere. Pyrolysis is the anaerobic thermal degradation of MSW, carried out in an oxygen free environment, producing gases (syngas), liquid and solid residuals. Syngas is composed of methane, hydrogen, carbon mono oxide and carbon dioxide. It can be used in engines, boilers, turbines, fuel cells and heat pumps. Plasma arc gasification also involves partial oxidation of MSW. Syngas and high quality producer gas is obtained that can be used as transport fuel, heat and to generate electricity. Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC) is a complex process through which hydro-char is produced, which is similar to coal and can be used as a solid fuel for heat and power generation. Organic fraction of MSW is biodegradable and has high energy content. Biochemical treatment technologies are designed to utilize this fraction of MSW. Anaerobic digestion of organic waste is performed by microbes in absence of oxygen in a closed container (biogas digester), resulting in the reduction of waste and production of a combustible gas, biogas, a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide. Landfill gas is rich in methane and must be used to produce heat and energy. It usually consists of 50% methane and 50% CO2. Gas is collected by pipes and reaches the wells installed inside the landfills.
Webbed Type of Integrated Science Learning on the Theme of Environmental Pollution to Improve Students’ Scientific Literacy
Authors: Widharnati Widharnati , Retnowati Rita , Permana Irvan , Eilks Ingo
Published: September 2022

This study aims to get information on how to integrate the science learning type of Webbed with the theme of environmental pollution to improve students’ scientific literacy. The subject of study was seventh-grade students in middle school. The research method used in this study is a quasi-experimental method with a Nonequivalent Control Group Design. The data were analyzed by calculating the normalized gain average score to determine the increase in scientific literacy. The average result of N-Gain in students' scientific literacy as a whole obtained in the experiment class is 0.66 while the control class is 0.43, both are in the medium category with a difference of 0.23. The hypothesis test result in the t-test is known as the significance level of 0.000 which means that Ho is rejected, and Ha is accepted. Based on the result of this t-test, it is known that students’ scientific literacy abilities are not the same. This means that there were differences in the increase in scientific literacy in integrated webbed versus conventional science learning types without integration. The result of the study shows that webbed-type integrated learning can improve students’ scientific literacy on aspects of content, process, and attitude.
Synergistic hydrolysis of filter paper by recombinant cellulase cocktails leveraging a key cellobiase, Cba2, of Cellulomonas biazotea
Authors: SIDDIQUE Faiza , Hon LAM Edward Kat , Raymond WONG Wan Keung
Published: September 2022

Cellulomonas biazotea, a Gram-positive cellulolytic bacterium isolated from soil, is capable of producing a complete cellulase complex exhibiting endoglucanase, exoglucanase, and cellobiase activities. Despite the presence of a full complement of all three types of cellulases, samples prepared from both cell lysates and culture media of C. biazotea showed only weak synergistic activities formed among the cellulase components, as reflected by their inefficient performance in filter paper hydrolysis. However, when the five previously characterized recombinant cellobiases of C. biazotea were mixed individually or in different combinations with recombinant enzyme preparations (CenA/Cex) containing an endoglucanase, CenA, and an exoglucanase, Cex, of another Cellulomonas species, C. fimi, the cellulase cocktails exhibited not only much higher but also synergistic activities in filter paper hydrolysis. Among the 5 C. biazotea cellobiases studied, Cba2 was shown to perform 2.8 to 3.8 times better than other homologous isozymes when acting individually with CenA/Cex. More noteworthy is that when Cba2 and Cba4 were added together to the reaction mixture, an even better synergistic effect was achieved. The filter paper activities resulting from Cba2 and Cba4 interacting with CenA/Cex are comparable to those obtained from some commercial fungal cellulase mixtures. To our knowledge, our results represent the first demonstration of synergistic effects on filter paper hydrolysis achieved using recombinant bacterial cellulases.
Terminal group effects of DOPO-conjugated flame retardant on polyamide 6: Thermal stability, flame retardancy and mechanical performances
Authors: Gao Jing , He Wentao , Xiang Yushu , Long Lijuan , Qin Shuhao
Published: September 2022

Two DOPO-conjugated flame retardants with or without amino terminal groups (DOPO-NH2 and DIDOPO, respectively) were synthesized and incorporated into polyamide 6 (PA6). Results demonstrated the DOPO-NH2 endowed superior thermal, flame retardant and mechanical performances to PA6 composites. With the same loading of 15 wt%, DOPO-NH2 can catalyze the PA6 matrix more effectively and result in more residues at high temperature. The PA6 composites containing DOPO-NH2 exhibited higher LOI (28.0%) compared to 25.0% for the sample containing DIDOPO, and the lower heat release capacity and peak heat release rate. Furthermore, the overall mechanical properties of PA6 composites containing DOPO-NH2 outperformed the samples containing DIDOPO, even superior to that for PA6. Such a significant difference can be mainly attributed to the existence of amino-terminal group, which can interact with carboxyl group in PA6 as confirmed by dynamic mechanical analysis, improving the compatibility between the flame retardant and PA6 matrix.
Non-invasive assessment of acute heart failure by Stevenson classification: Does echocardiographic examination recognize different phenotypes?
Authors: Palazzuoli Alberto , Ruocco Gaetano , Valente Serafina , Stefanini Andrea , Carluccio Erberto , Ambrosio Giuseppe
Published: September 2022

Background

Acute heart failure (AHF) presentation is universally classified in relation to the presence or absence of congestion and the peripheral perfusion condition according to the Stevenson diagram. We sought to evaluate a relationship existing between clinical assessment and echocardiographic evaluation in patients with AHF.

Materials and methods

This is a retrospective blinded multicenter analysis assessing both clinical and echocardiographic analyses during the early hospital admission for AHF. Patients were categorized into four groups according to the Stevenson presentation: group A (warm and dry), group B (cold and dry), group C (warm and wet), and group D (cold and wet). Echocardiographic evaluation was executed within 12 h from the first clinical evaluation. The following parameters were measured: left ventricular (LV) volumes, LV ejection fraction (LVEF); pattern Doppler by E/e1 ratio, pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), and inferior cave vein diameter (ICV).

Results

We studied 208 patients, 10 in group A, 16 in group B, 153 in group C, and 29 in group D. Median age of our sample was 81 [69–86] years and the patients enrolled were mainly men (66.8%). Patients in groups C and A showed significant higher levels of systolic arterial pressures with respect to groups B and D (respectively, 130 [115–145] mmHg vs. 122 [119–130] mmHg vs. 92 [90–100] mmHg vs. 95 [90–100] mmHg, p < 0.001). Patients in groups A and C (warm) demonstrated significant higher values of LVEF with respect to patients in groups B and D (43 [34–49] vs. 42 [30–49] vs. 27 [15–31] vs. 30 [22–42]%, p < 0.001). Whereas group B experienced significant lower TAPSE values compared with other group (14 [12–17] mm vs. A: 17 [16–21] mm vs. C: 18 [14–20] mm vs. D: 16 [12–17] mm; p = 0.02). Finally, echocardiographic congestion score including PASP ≥ 40 mmHg, ICV ≥ 21, mm and E/e’ > 14 did not differ among groups. Follow-up analysis showed an increased mortality rate in D group (HR 8.2 p < 0.04).

Conclusion

The early Stevenson classification remains a simple and universally recognized approach for the detection of congestion and perfusion status. The combined clinical and echocardiographic assessment may be useful to better define the patients’ profile.
Left atrial anatomical variations correlate with atrial fibrillation sources near the left atrial ridge
Authors: Gagyi Rita B. , Szegedi Nándor , Simon Judit , Wijchers Sip , Bhagwandien Rohit , Kong Melissa H. , Ruppersberg Peter , Szili-Torok Tamas
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Anatomical variations and characteristics of the left atrium (LA) may have a previously undescribed effect on source locations in atrial fibrillation (AF). This is the first study aiming to investigate the relationship between anatomical characteristics of the LA and non-PV sources detected by electrographic flow (EGF) mapping in patients with persistent AF.

Materials and methods

We analyzed cardiac computed tomography (CT) and EGF mapping data in patients who underwent radiofrequency catheter ablation (CA). EGF mapping is a novel method based on Horn–Schunk flow estimation algorithm, used to estimate cardiac action potential flow in the atria that can detect AF sources in patients with persistent AF. By analyzing EGF maps obtained during CA procedures, we localized non-PV sources in the LA.

Results

Thirty patients were included in this study (mean age 62.4 ± 6.8 years). Ten patients had AF sources near the LA ridge, while twenty patients had no leading source (source activity > 26%) near the LA ridge. LA anatomical characteristics, left atrial appendage (LAA) length, and ostial diameter showed no correlation with the presence of a leading source. We documented 19 patients with abutting LAA and left superior pulmonary vein (LSPV) (distance < 2 mm), and 11 patients with non-abutting LAA–LSPV (distance > 2 mm). Three out of 19 patients presented with a leading source near ridge in the abutting LAA–LSPV group, while 7 out of 11 patients presented with a leading source near the ridge in the non-abutting LAA-LSPV group (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Our data suggests that non-abutting LAA-LSPV is associated with the presence of AF sources near the LA ridge.
Clinical characteristics and risk factors of in-hospital gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Zhong Liang , Quan Xingpu , Dang Peizhu , Tang Manyun , Yu Hang , Guo Fengwei
Published: September 2022

Background

Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is one of the most serious complications of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and is correlated with poor outcomes.

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence, risk factors and in-hospital mortality of GIB in patients with AMI.

Methods

This observational case-control study retrospectively enrolled consecutive patients with AMI from the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University from January 2015 to December 2020. GIB after AMI was identified by International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes from inpatient medical settings and validated by medical record review. AMI patients without GIB were accordingly classified as the control group. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to match with the GIB group and the control group. All anonymized clinical data were provided by the Biobank of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University.

Results

A total of 5,868 AMI patients were enrolled, 0.87% (51/5,868) of whom developed GIB after AMI. On the univariate analysis, history of diabetes, chronic kidney disease, Killip IV, a lower hemoglobin concentration, a higher serum level of creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and D-dimer were closely associated with the risk of GIB (P < 0.05). On the multivariable analysis, a lower hemoglobin concentration (OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.89–0.96, P < 0.001) was independently associated with the risk of GIB. Patients with GIB had a much higher in-hospital mortality rate than those without GIB (14.3 vs. 2.1%, P = 0.047). In-hospital mortality among patients with GIB after AMI appeared to be associated with a decreased hemoglobin concentration (OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.86–0.99, P = 0.045) and Killip IV (OR: 51.59, 95% CI: 2.65–1,005.30, P = 0.009).

Conclusion

The history of diabetes, poor renal function and heart failure were associated with the high risk of GIB in patients experiencing AMI. The in-hospital mortality in patients with AMI complicating GIB was higher than that in patients without GIB and was associated with a decreased hemoglobin concentration and high Killip classification.
A novel method for measuring pulmonary artery pressure by high-frequency ultrasound-guided transthoracic puncture in rats
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Li Jingtao , Zeng Decai , Liang Chunting , Zhong Yanfen , Huang Tongtong , Mo Yingying , Rao Huaqing , Pan Xiaoxiong , Wu Ji
Published: September 2022

Objectives

The success of the rat model of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is primarily dependent on the measurement of pulmonary artery pressure. We herein demonstrate a novel method for measuring pulmonary artery pressure through a high-frequency ultrasound-guided transthoracic puncture in rats. The efficacy and time of this novel method are also discussed.

Methods

A single subcutaneous injection of monocrotaline (MCT) was used to establish a rat model of PH. Through the heat shaping method, the tip of that puncture cannula was maintained at a certain angle after the needle core was removed. In-plane real-time guided trocar puncture of the right ventricular outflow tract was performed in the short-axis section of the parasternal aorta. The external pressure sensor was used to record the real-time waveform of right ventricular systolic pressure, pulmonary artery systolic pressure, and diastolic pressure.

Results

The success rates of which using this novel method in the model group and the control group were 88.5 and 86.7%, respectively. The time of puncture pressure measurement was 164 ± 31 and 235 ± 50 s, respectively. The right ventricular systolic blood pressure, pulmonary systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure of the model group were higher than those of the control group.

Conclusion

The modified method for trocar is helpful for accurately positioning pulmonary artery manometry. The method described in this paper has a high success rate and short operation time. It can simultaneously measure systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean pressure of the right ventricle and pulmonary artery. It has a broad application prospect in verifying the rat PH model and pulmonary artery pressure monitoring.
Specific Processes of Intelligence and Relationships in Academic Learning (SPIRAL)
Authors: Blankson A. Nayena
Published: September 2022

We live in an age of cancel culture. Things are canceled sometimes for important reasons and sometimes for superficial reasons. Over 100 years since its inception, the concept of IQ still lingers. Here, I make the argument that IQ should be canceled. I conclude with the proposition of a new theory, Specific Processes of Intelligence and Relationships in Academic Learning (SPIRAL), which can be used to guide future research on cognition and achievement.
Free fatty acid receptors in the endocrine regulation of glucose metabolism: Insight from gastrointestinal-pancreatic-adipose interactions
Authors: Zhao Yu-Feng
Published: September 2022

Glucose metabolism is primarily controlled by pancreatic hormones, with the coordinated assistance of the hormones from gastrointestine and adipose tissue. Studies have unfolded a sophisticated hormonal gastrointestinal-pancreatic-adipose interaction network, which essentially maintains glucose homeostasis in response to the changes in substrates and nutrients. Free fatty acids (FFAs) are the important substrates that are involved in glucose metabolism. FFAs are able to activate the G-protein coupled membrane receptors including GPR40, GPR120, GPR41 and GPR43, which are specifically expressed in pancreatic islet cells, enteroendocrine cells as well as adipocytes. The activation of FFA receptors regulates the secretion of hormones from pancreas, gastrointestine and adipose tissue to influence glucose metabolism. This review presents the effects of the FFA receptors on glucose metabolism via the hormonal gastrointestinal-pancreatic-adipose interactions and the underlying intracellular mechanisms. Furthermore, the development of therapeutic drugs targeting FFA receptors for the treatment of abnormal glucose metabolism such as type 2 diabetes mellitus is summarized.
Accumulation mechanism of natural gas hydrate in the Qilian Mountain permafrost, Qinghai, China
Authors: Zhang Fugui , Yang Zhibin , Zhou Yalong , Zhang Shunyao , Yu Linsong
Published: September 2022

Qilian Mountain is the only permafrost area in China where natural gas hydrates have been obtained through scientific drilling. Many studies have been performed on natural gas hydrates in permafrost regions from the perspectives of sedimentology and petroleum geochemistry, especially on reservoir forming conditions and exploration methods. However, there are still more divergences in its evolutionary process, time, and accumulation mechanism. In this study, a total of 500 core samples were collected in the gas hydrate drilling wells DK-8, DK13-11, and DK12-13 in the Qilian Mountain permafrost. Gas components, carbon isotopes of methane, total organic carbon (TOC), chloroform bitumen “A,” concentrations of kerogen element, and vitrinite reflectance (Ro) are analyzed. The results show that the hydrocarbon source rocks in the Middle Jurassic Muli formation and the Upper Triassic Galedesi formation are good source rocks, with good total organic carbon content and chloroform bitumen “A.” The rocks of Muli formation are at the mature stage of organic matters, and the organic matter types are mainly Ⅱ1 and Ⅱ2 and the peak of generating crude oil with immense petroleum-associated gas. Also, the rocks of the Galedesi formation are in a highly mature stage, producing more gas and offering efficient gas for the natural gas hydrate, and the organic matter types are mainly Ⅲ and Ⅱ1. Laboratory experiments and numerical analysis indicate that the formation of natural gas hydrates in the Qilian Mountain has experienced three phases: gas migration and aggregation in the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous, overall uplift in the Middle and Late Miocene to Pliocene, and free gas to natural gas hydrate deposits in the Quaternary. The experimental results show that gas sources, permafrost thickness, and structural conditions played a key role in controlling the occurrence and distribution of gas hydrates.
Case report: A homozygous ADAMTSL2 missense variant causes geleophysic dysplasia with high similarity to Weill-Marchesani syndrome
Authors: Li Mojiang , Li Yingshu , Liu Huixing , Zhou Haiyan , Xie Wanqin , Peng Qinghua
Published: September 2022

Background: Geleophysic dysplasia and Weill-Marchesani syndrome from the acromelic dysplasias group of genetic skeletal disorders share remarkable clinical and genetic overlap.

Methods: Ophthalmological, physical, radiological examinations were conducted with a female patient in her early 30 s. Whole exome sequencing followed by Sanger sequencing validation was performed to identify the genetic cause.

Results: The patient, born to consanguineous Chinese parents, presented with microspherophakia, lens subluxation, high myopia, short statue, small hands and feet, stiff joints, and thickened skin. A diagnosis of Weill-Marchesani syndrome was initially made for her. However, genetic testing reveals that the patient is homozygous for the c.1966G>A (p.Gly656Ser) variant in ADAMTSL2, and that the patient’s healthy mother and daughter are heterozygous for the variant. As mutations in ADAMTSL2 are known to cause autosomal recessive geleophysic dysplasia, the patient is re-diagnosed with geleophysic dysplasia in terms of her genotype and phenotype.

Conclusion: The present study describes the clinical phenotype of the homozygous ADAMTSL2 p. Gly656Ser variant, which increases our understanding of the genotype-phenotype correlation in acromelic dysplasias.
DETexT: An SNV detection enhancement for low read depth by integrating mutational signatures into TextCNN
Authors: Zheng Tian
Published: September 2022

Detecting SNV at very low read depths helps to reduce sequencing requirements, lowers sequencing costs, and aids in the early screening, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. However, the accuracy of SNV detection is significantly reduced at read depths below ×34 due to the lack of a sufficient number of read pairs to help filter out false positives. Many recent studies have revealed the potential of mutational signature (MS) in detecting true SNV, understanding the mutational processes that lead to the development of human cancers, and analyzing the endogenous and exogenous causes. Here, we present DETexT, an SNV detection method better suited to low read depths, which classifies false positive variants by combining MS with deep learning algorithms to mine correlation information around bases in individual reads without relying on the support of duplicate read pairs. We have validated the effectiveness of DETexT on simulated and real datasets and conducted comparative experiments. The source code has been uploaded to https://github.com/TrinaZ/extra-lowRD for academic use only.
LncRNA NCAL1 potentiates natural killer cell cytotoxicity through the Gab2-PI3K-AKT pathway
Authors: Niu Chao , Li Min , Chen Yongchong , Zhang Xiaoying , Zhu Shan , Zhou Xin , Zhou Lei , Li Zhaozhi , Xu Jianting , Hu Ji-fan , Wang Yufeng , Cui Jiuwei
Published: September 2022

Natural killer (NK) cells perform immune surveillance functions in tumors. The antitumor effects of NK cells are closely related to tumor occurrence and development. However, the molecular factors that determine NK cell antitumor activity remain to be characterized. In the present study, we identified a novel long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), NK cell activity-associated lncRNA 1 (NCAL1), and investigated its function in NK cells. NCAL1 was primarily located in NK cell nuclei, where it functioned by activating Gab2, a scaffold protein with an essential role in immune cells. Gab2 positively regulated the killing activity of NK cells. Mechanistically, NCAL1 upregulated Gab2 epigenetically by binding to the Gab2 promoter, which decreased methylation, recruited the transcription factor Sp1, and increased H3K4me3 and H3K27ac levels in the Gab2 promoter. Furthermore, NCAL1 enhanced the cytotoxicity of NK cells toward tumor cells through the Gab2-PI3K-AKT pathway. Thus, NCAL1 potentiates NK cell cytotoxicity and is a promising therapeutic target to improve NK cell therapy.
Challenges in severe asthma: Do we need new drugs or new biomarkers?
Authors: Adatia Adil , Vliagoftis Harissios
Published: September 2022

Severe asthma is a complex, heterogenous airway condition. There have been significant advances in severe asthma management in the past decade using monoclonal antibody therapies that target the inflammatory component of the disease. Patient selection has been paramount for the success of these biologicals, leading to significant interest in biomarkers to guide treatment. Some severe asthmatics remain suboptimally controlled despite trials of biologicals and many of these patients still require chronic systemic corticosteroids. New therapeutics are currently in development to address this unmet need. However, whether these patients could be better treated by using novel biomarkers that inform selection among currently available biologics, and that objectively measure disease control is unclear. In this review, we examine the currently used biomarkers that guide severe asthma management and emerging biomarkers that may improve asthma therapy in the future.
Cryoelectron microscopy structures of a human neutralizing antibody bound to MERS-CoV spike glycoprotein
Authors: Zhang Shuyuan , Jia Wenxv , Zeng Jianwei , Li Mingxi , Wang Ziyi , Zhou Haixia , Zhang Linqi , Wang Xinquan
Published: September 2022

Neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against highly pathogenic coronaviruses represent promising candidates for clinical intervention. Here, we isolated a potent neutralizing monoclonal antibody, MERS-S41, from a yeast displayed scFv library using the S protein as a bait. To uncover the neutralization mechanism, we determined structures of MERS-S41 Fab in complex with the trimeric spike glycoprotein by cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM). We observed four distinct classes of the complex structure, which showed that the MERS-S41 Fab bound to the “up” receptor binding domain (RBD) with full saturation and also bound to an accessible partially lifted “down” RBD, providing a structural basis for understanding how mAbs bind to trimeric spike glycoproteins. Structure analysis of the epitope and cell surface staining assays demonstrated that virus entry is blocked predominantly by direct competition with the host receptor, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4).
Physiologically relevant microsystems to study viral infection in the human liver
Authors: McDuffie Dennis , Barr David , Agarwal Ashutosh , Thomas Emmanuel
Published: September 2022

Viral hepatitis is a leading cause of liver disease and mortality. Infection can occur acutely or chronically, but the mechanisms that govern the clearance of virus or lack thereof are poorly understood and merit further investigation. Though cures for viral hepatitis have been developed, they are expensive, not readily accessible in vulnerable populations and some patients may remain at an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) even after viral clearance. To sustain infection in vitro, hepatocytes must be fully mature and remain in a differentiated state. However, primary hepatocytes rapidly dedifferentiate in conventional 2D in vitro platforms. Physiologically relevant or physiomimetic microsystems, are increasingly popular alternatives to traditional two-dimensional (2D) monocultures for in vitro studies. Physiomimetic systems reconstruct and incorporate elements of the native cellular microenvironment to improve biologic functionality in vitro. Multiple elements contribute to these models including ancillary tissue architecture, cell co-cultures, matrix proteins, chemical gradients and mechanical forces that contribute to increased viability, longevity and physiologic function for the tissue of interest. These microsystems are used in a wide variety of applications to study biological phenomena. Here, we explore the use of physiomimetic microsystems as tools for studying viral hepatitis infection in the liver and how the design of these platforms is tailored for enhanced investigation of the viral lifecycle when compared to conventional 2D cell culture models. Although liver-based physiomimetic microsystems are typically applied in the context of drug studies, the platforms developed for drug discovery purposes offer a solid foundation to support studies on viral hepatitis. Physiomimetic platforms may help prolong hepatocyte functionality in order to sustain chronic viral hepatitis infection in vitro for studying virus-host interactions for prolonged periods.
Deep brain stimulation in the globus pallidus alleviates motor activity defects and abnormal electrical activities of the parafascicular nucleus in parkinsonian rats
Authors: Xie Jinlu , Chen Zheng , He Tingting , Zhu Hengya , Chen Tingyu , Liu Chongbin , Fu Xuyan , Shen Hong , Li Tao
Published: September 2022

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD). The most common sites targeted for DBS in PD are the globus pallidus internal (GPi) and subthalamic nucleus (STN). However, STN-DBS and GPi-DBS have limited improvement in some symptoms and even aggravate disease symptoms. Therefore, discovering new targets is more helpful for treating refractory symptoms of PD. Therefore, our study selected a new brain region, the lateral globus pallidus (GP), as the target of DBS, and the study found that GP-DBS can improve motor symptoms. It has been reported that the thalamic parafascicular (PF) nucleus is strongly related to PD pathology. Moreover, the PF nucleus and GP have very close direct and indirect fiber connections. However, whether GP-DBS can change the activity of the PF remains unclear. Therefore, in this study, we monitored the activity changes in the PF nucleus in PD rats during a quiet awake state after GP-DBS. We found that GP-DBS could reverse the electrical activity of the PF nucleus in PD model rats, including the discharge pattern of the neurons and the local field potential (0.7–12 and 12–70 Hz). Based on the results mentioned above, PF activity in PD model rats could be changed by GP-DBS. Thus, the normalization of PF neuronal activity may be a potential mechanism for GP-DBS in the treatment of PD; these findings lay the foundation for PD treatment strategies.
Low ankle-brachial index and cognitive function after stroke—the PROSpective with Incident Stroke Berlin (PROSCIS-B)
Authors: Stillfried Maria R. V. , Sperber Pia S. , Broersen Leonie H. A. , Huo Shufan , Piper Sophie K. , Heuschmann Peter U. , Endres Matthias , Siegerink Bob , Liman Thomas G.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Low ankle-brachial index (ABI) ≤0. 9 is a marker for generalized atherosclerosis and a risk factor for cognitive decline in the general population.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of ABI ≤0.9 on cognitive function up to 3 years after first-ever ischemic stroke.

Methods

Data was used from the “PROspective Cohort with Incident Stroke-Berlin” (PROSCIS-B; NCT01363856). ABI was measured at baseline and categorized into normal (1.4–0.9) vs. low (≤0.9). Cognitive function was assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Mini-Mental-State-Examination (MMSE) at baseline and with the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status-modified (TICS-m) at 1–3 years of follow-up. We performed confounder adjusted generalized linear models (GLM) to calculate relative risks (RR) for cognitive impairment at baseline (MMSE≤26; MoCA≤25) and linear mixed models (LMM) to estimate the impact of low ABI on TICS-m over time.

Results

We included 325 patients [mean age: 66 (SD = 13); 38% female, median NIHSS = 2 (IQR = 1–4), ABI≤0.9: 59 (18%)]. Patients with low ABI were at increased risk of cognitive impairment at baseline (adjusted RR for MoCA≤25 = 1.98; 95%-CI:1.24 to 3.16). TICS-m scores were consistently lower over time in patients with low ABI (adjusted ß = −1.96; 95%-CI:−3.55 to −0.37). Independent of ABI, cognitive function did not decline over time (adjusted ß:0.29; 95%-CI:−0.06 to 0.64).

Conclusion

In patients with mild to moderate first-ever ischemic stroke, low ABI is associated with reduced cognitive function over a 3-year follow-up.

Study Registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT01363856.
A high-fat diet disrupts the hepatic and adipose circadian rhythms and modulates the diurnal rhythm of gut microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids in gestational mice
Authors: Ding Lu , Liu Jieying , Zhou Liyuan , Jia Xinmiao , Li Shunhua , Zhang Qian , Yu Miao , Xiao Xinhua
Published: September 2022

The prevalence of gestational obesity has reached epidemic proportions. Evidence supported that the interactions between the gut microbiota and circadian clocks far reached, affecting host metabolism. Our study aimed to investigate the effect of a high-fat diet (HF) on the hepatic and adipose circadian rhythms in gestational mice and to explore the role of gut microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in mediating the effects. C57BL/6 female mice were randomly fed a standard chow diet (Ctr) or HF prior to and during pregnancy. Samples were collected every 4 h over 24 h (six time points), and 16S rRNA and metabonomics were carried out. Rhythmic patterns were identified and compared using CircaCompare. The results showed that the HF before and during pregnancy significantly induced obesity and worsen glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and lipid metabolism in the gestational mice. Furthermore, the HF significantly disrupted the rhythmic pattern of hepatic and adipose circadian clock genes and downstream metabolic genes. Importantly, our results revealed that the HF altered the diurnal rhythm of the gut microbiota in a diverse manner, which was assessed across three categories: phase shift, loss rhythmicity, and gained rhythmicity. We report here, for the first time, a parallel alteration of the rhythmic phase of butyric acid and butyrate-producing Clostridiaceae_1, which was confirmed by a positive correlation between them. Overall, our research emphasized the importance of the rhythmicity of gut microbiota-derived SCFAs in mediating circadian disruption in response to the HF in gestational mice, which may provide novel insights into the prevention and treatment of gestational obesity.