bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Physical Origin of Waves in Magnetocardiography Technique and their Applications in Imaging
Authors: Fioranelli Massimo , Roccia Maria Grazia , Beesham Aroonkumar , Flavin Dana , Shoorvazi Somayyeh
Published: May 2022

In this research, we propose a theoretical model which helps us to consider evolutions of some special heart cells by using superconducting quantum interface devices (SQUID) in a magnetocardiography (MCG) technique. In this model, each cell has its own special electrical structure including ions and charges. These charges move within or outside the cell and emit some magnetic fields. Also, some charges have spins which emit spinning magnetic fields. Summing over these biofields produces the real biofield of a cell. All cellular magnetic fields are summed and enter into the sensor (SQUID) and form the observed pulse on the scope. On the other hand, each biofield induces a current on the superconductor of detector. To consider evolutions of a special cell, one can produce some currents, equal and in opposite directions of currents which are induced by other cells. These currents cancel effects of other cells and only the current and magnetic field of a desired cell is remained. Thus, one can analyze the behavior of one special cell. For example, if a cell converts to a tumor one, its radiated charges and magnetic fields are changed. These changes could be detected by SQUID and tumors could be diagnosed fast.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS AND BASIC AGREEMENTS IN OVERCOMING STATELESSNESS ISSUES AT THE BORDER BETWEEN INDONESIA AND PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Authors: Hananto Pulung Widhi , Prananda Rahandy Rizki , Herawati Ratna , Irawati Irawati
Published: May 2022

Differences in perspective on territorial boundaries between local communities with customary rights based on customary law and the definition of territorial boundaries in the context of state administration raises a dilemma, one of which is the potential for statelessness. The existence of ulayat customary land is a factor that affects illegal border crossings. The Governments of the Republic of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea responded to this by entering into basic agreements and special arrangements. This article aims to examine the implementation and effectiveness of special arrangements and basic agreements in dealing with the emergence of statelessness problems. This study uses a statutory and conceptual approach. The results of the study found that the application of rules that were positivistic in nature could not be applied absolutely to residents of the border between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. The use of red and yellow card policies is only temporary, so a permanent policy is needed to address this issue.
Isolation and identification of tyramine-producing bacteria and their biogenic amines formation during fermentation of sufu
Authors: Li Yuwei , Yan Tingting , Yin Lijun , Cheng Yongqiang , Jia Xin
Published: May 2022

The Chinese traditional soybean product, sufu, is getting increasingly popular in Asia for its special taste and rich nutrition. In this paper, physicochemical properties of sufu during fermentation, isolation and characterization of BA-producing bacteria, as well as their decarboxylase activities were thoroughly investigated. Tyramine, putrescine, phenylethylamine and cadaverine were the main BA in sufu fermentation. Tyramine level increased drastically to reach 513.72 mg/kg during sufu ripening, posing potential health risks. During sufu fermentation, there was a positive correlation between amino nitrogen and BA, yet no significant correlation was found between BAs with pH and total acidity. Additionally, 23 strains of tyramine- and phenylethylamine-producing bacteria harboring the TDC gene, including Enterococcus faecalis 45, Enterococcus faecium 36, Pediococcus acidilactici 310 and Pediococcus pentosaceus 27 that were responsible for tyramine production in sufu have been characterized. The current study provides insights into understanding the production of tyramine in sufu by microorganisms, which laid the groundwork for controlling biogenic amine production in fermented soybean products.
Soluble CD36 Concentration in Diabetic Hypertensive Patients with Coronary Atherosclerosis
Authors: Khaleel Amer Ali , Al-Barzinji Ruqaya Mohammed Ghareeb Taher
Published: May 2022

Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition defined by cholesterol retention and arterial wall inflammation. CD36 is indeed a membrane protein found in the monocyte-macrophage systems and endothelial cells involved in the cellular uptake of oxidized low-density lipoproteins and long-chain fatty acids with a crucial role in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. The purpose of this research is to compare the diagnostic usefulness of soluble CD36 (sCD36) to high sensitivity C reactive protein (hs-CRP) in diabetic hypertensive individuals with coronary atherosclerosis and the correlation between these parameters in research groups. One hundred individuals with coronary atherosclerosis were divided into four groups based on diabetes mellitus (DM) and/or hypertension (HTN), with 100 participants with routine angiography serving as a control group. The serum levels of sCD36 and hs-CRP were quantified using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for sCD36 and a particle-enhanced immune turbidimetric assay for hs-CRP, respectively. A study group's lipid profiles, hematological markers, and clinical aspects were compared. Compared to the control, sCD36 and hs-CRP levels in patients increased considerably (p<0.05). The sCD36 level varied substantially between groups (p<0.05), with the DM-HTN group having the highest sCD36 level among the patient groups. Further, the hs-CRP level indicated a significant difference among patients and controls (p<0.05). CD36 correlated significantly and positively with the following terms BMI, hs-CRP, Total cholesterol and non-HDL-C (p<0.05).
The prognostic value of N6-methyladenosine RBM15 regulators in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ma Mingsheng , Wang Wei , Wang Biying , Yang Yichen , Huang Yunchao , Zhao Guangqiang , Ye Lianhua
Published: May 2022

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common internal modification in mammalian mRNAs while RNA-binding motif protein 15 (RBM15) is an important methyltransferase in m6A modification. Increasing evidences have shown that RBM15 has a close correlation with lung cancer. However, specific functions of RBM15 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) are limited. RBM15 expression was analyzed in human LUAD tissues and matched healthy lung tissue. RBM15 was knocked down via siRNA in A549 and H1734 cells. The relationships between RBM15 with cellular functions characteristics and mRNA m6A levels were explored. We performed functional characterization in A549 and H1734 cells lines to elucidate the molecular role of RBM15. Results found that RBM15 was up-regulated in the LUAD tissue and cells, which was linked to poor survival of LUAD patients. RBM15 can be knocked down via siRNA in A549, which leads to the exploration of the associations between RBM15 with cell characteristics. In vivo, RBM15 knockdown could decrease the methylation level, reduce proliferation, accelerate apoptosis and inhibit tumor growth. Our research shows that RBM15 facilitates LUAC cell progression by m6A demethylation. However, it is necessary to conduct further researches on potential downstream molecular mechanisms and m6A modification of RBM15 activity in LUAC.
VDR Gene Polymorphisms in Kurdish Population and Its Relation to T1DM in Erbil-Iraq
Authors: Othman Galawezh Obaid
Published: May 2022

This research assessed the relationship among type 1 diabetes VDR gene polymorphisms (ApaI and TaqI) in the Kurdish population in Erbil-Iraq. Forty individuals with type 1 diabetes and thirty healthy people were recruited from the Kurdish population in Erbil, Iraq. Genomic DNA was taken from blood, being genotyped for SNP (single nucleotide polymorphisms). The distribution of VDR polymorphisms in two restriction fragment length polymorphism sites, TaqI and ApaI, was investigated in patients and controlled by a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) utilizing ApaI and TaqI restriction enzymes. Using SPSS software (V15.0), the genotype dispersal and allelic incidences in patients and controls were compared. VDR polymorphism genotype dispersal and allele incidences vary dramatically among patients and controls. The results confirmed that the genotype GT in SNP ApaI was a risk factor among type 1 diabetes mellitus patients' combination that imparted the strongest susceptibility to T1DM (P=0.00023). Still, the SNP TaqI showed no relevance between cases and controls (P=0.35). Our findings indicate that VDR gene polymorphisms in the combination of genotypes are related to an increased risk of T1DM in the Kurdish community and warrant further investigation as a possible genetic risk marker for T1DM. More research is needed to corroborate this finding, particularly the VDR gene, which was studied for the first time in the Kurdish population.
The effect of 5A nursing combined with psychological nursing on the immune function, cancer-related fatigue and complications of patients undergoing radical resection of colorectal cancer
Authors: Xu Yun , Yang Juan
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to analyze the effects of 5A nursing (including Ask, Assess, Advise, Assist, and Access) combined with psychological nursing on the immune function, cancer-related fatigue, and complications of patients undergoing radical resection of colorectal cancer. For this purpose, 64 patients undergoing radical resection of colorectal cancer were treated with nursing intervention during the perioperative period from March 2019 to March 2021. They were randomly divided into a control group and a study group according to admission order. Each group had 32 cases. The control group performed routine nursing, and 5A nursing combined with psychological nursing was performed on the research group. Then the immune function, cancer-related fatigue, complications, self-efficacy, and nursing satisfaction were compared between the two groups. Results showed that the levels of CD3+ and CD4+ in the two groups were lower than before nursing, and the levels of CD8+, IgA, IgM, and IgG were higher than before nursing (P<0.05). The reduction of CD3+ and CD4+ in the study group was less than the control group, and the increase of CD8+, IgA, IgM, and IgG in the study group was higher than the control group (P<0.05). The scores of cancer-related fatigue after nursing were lower than before nursing (P<0.05), and the reduction of cancer-related fatigue in the study group was higher than the control group (P<0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications in the study group (12.50%) was lower than the control group (25.00%) after nursing (p<0.05). The scores of all dimensions of self-efficacy of the two groups after nursing were higher than before nursing (P<0.05). The improvement of self-efficacy of the study group was better than the control group (P<0.05). The overall nursing satisfaction of the observation group after nursing (96.88%) was higher than the control group (84.38%)(P<0.05). According to the results, the use of 5A nursing combined with psychological nursing can effectively relieve the perioperative psychological pressure of the patients, improve the immune function of the body, relieve cancer-related fatigue, prevent and control the incidence of complications, and improve the quality of clinical life of the patients for patients undergoing radical resection of colorectal cancer.
RNA Sequencing-Based Total RNA Profiling; The Oncogenic MiR-191 Identification as a Novel Biomarker for Breast Cancer
Authors: Majed Sevan Omer
Published: May 2022

This study aims to screen the differential expression of total RNA transcripts in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues (FFPETs) in breast cancer (BRCA) and normal adjacent tissues (NATs) and identify miR-191 as a new biomarker for early diagnosing BRCA. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) by MACE-Seq and differentially expressed ncRNAs (DEncRNAs) by the TrueQuant technique were examined in this study. The miR-191 expression level was measured by Real Time-qPCR. An average of 4,739 coding genes from 25,713 significantly down-regulated genes was identified, whereas 3,954 coding genes were significantly up-regulated in the BRCA against NAT. An average of 1450 ncRNAs, including up-regulated= 679 and down-regulated= 780, were differentially expressed in 7 paired samples of BRCA and NAT. Among the ncRNAs, 227 microRNAs, including unchanged= 152, down=53, and up=22, were differentially expressed. MiR-191 was one of the 22 significant up-regulation, with p=0.0001. RT-qPCR results confirmed that miR-191, p=0.003, was significantly over-expressed in 120 paired samples of BRCA and NAT. Furthermore, NextSeq 500 revealed that a single nucleotide polymorphism (C>T) newly occurred in the mature sequence of miR-191-5p seed region in BRCA samples. However, the putative target genes regulated by the miR-191-5p were recognized by the above ten computational programs for the prediction. MACE-Seq outcomes showed that the genes of CDK6(P=0.0001), DAPK1(P=0.02), MTC7(P=0.04), SETD1B(P=0.005), CALN1(P=0.01), and TMOD2(P=0.001) were significantly over-expressed in the BRCA against the NATs. The expression level of the targets was adversely related to the miR-191-5p.
The correlation between miR -34a-3p, miR -31, PLEK2 and the occurrence, development and prognosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Bin He , Mei Han , Hui Wang , Bing Zheng
Published: May 2022

The current study aimed to explore the correlation between Mir-34A-3p, Mir-31, PLEK2 and the occurrence, development and prognosis of colorectal cancer. For this paper, 120 patients with colorectal cancer were selected as the study group, and their adjacent normal tissues were selected as the control group. The quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR) method was used to detect miR-34a-3p and miR-31 in tissues, and the immunohistochemistry EnVision two-step method was used to detect PLEK2 positive expression. The expressions of miR -34a-3p, miR -31, and PLEK2 in colon cancer tissues and normal cancer tissues were compared, and the correlation between miR -34a-3p, miR -31, and PLEK2 and clinic-pathological characteristics of colorectal cancer patients were analyzed. The results showed that expression of miR -34a-3p, miR -31 and positive expression rate of PLEK2 in colorectal cancer tissues were higher than those in normal adjacent tissues (P<0.05). The expression of miR -34a-3p was related to tumor size, degree of tissue differentiation, lymph node metastasis and TNM stage (P < 0.05). The 3-year survival rate of miR -34a-3p with low expression was lower than miR -34a-3p with high expression, which was a protective factor affecting the poor prognosis of colorectal cancer (P < 0.05). The expression of miR -31 was related to tumor size and TNM stage. The 3-year survival rate of the group with high expression of miR -31 was lower than the group with low expression of miR -31, which was a risk factor affecting the poor prognosis of colorectal cancer (P < 0.05). PLEK2 positive expression was associated with lymph node metastasis, and the 3-year survival rate of the PLEK2 positive group was lower than the PLEK2 low expression group, which was a risk factor for poor prognosis of colorectal cancer (P < 0.05). In general, miR -34a-3p, miR -31, and PLEK2 are closely associated with the occurrence and development of colorectal cancer, and they are all influential factors affecting the prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer, which can provide a basis for the evaluation and treatment of patients, and are worthy of widespread clinical application.
Effects of 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene on Apoptosis of Breast Cancer Cells through Regulating Expressions of FasL and Bcl-2
Authors: Lin Renzhi , Guan Zihan , Zhou Qi , Zhong Jijun , Zheng Chenhui , Zhang Zhuoni
Published: May 2022

To provides a reference basis for the apoptosis of breast cancer (BC) cells and the carcinogenesis of BC, the effects of 7, 12-dimethylbenz (a) anthracene (DMBA) on apoptosis regulators FasL and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) were investigated. In this study, 62 female C57BL/6 mice aged from 4 to 6 weeks were randomly divided into control group (CG) and test group (TG), with 31 mice in each group. The TG was given DMBA solution by gavage at a dose of 50 mg/kg, and the CG was given normal saline of equal volume. On the second day after the experiment, all the mice were killed by cervical dislocation. The morphology of the mammary gland was observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and the differences of FasL and Bcl-2 protein expression (PE) were detected by immunohistochemistry. The mRNA expression levels of FasL and Bcl-2 were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Breast cell apoptosis status of mice in the two groups was detected by the terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated biotin-16-dUTP nick-end labelling (TUNEL) method. The results showed that after HE staining, the tumor cells in the TG were stacked up to form a substantial structure. The expression level of FasL protein in the CG was greatly lower than that in the TG, and the positive rate (PR) was 20.25%, which was greatly lower than that of 89.65% in the TG (P<0.01). The expression level of Bcl-2 protein in the mammary gland tissues (MGTs) of mice in the TG was greatly higher than that of the CG, and its PR was 87.96%, which was greatly higher than that of 31.48% in the CG (P<0.01). The expression levels of FasL mRNA in the MGTs of mice in the TG and CG were 5.82±4.37 and 1.27±0.12, respectively, and there was a statistically obvious difference (P<0.05). The mRNA expression levels of Bcl-2 in the TG and the CG were 18.97±2.65 and 2.02±0.54, respectively, and there was an extremely obvious difference (P<0.01). The apoptosis rate of mammary gland cells in the TG was (19.79±3.53) %, and that in the CG was (2.93±0.28) %, and there was an extremely obvious difference (P<0.01). It indicated that DMBA inhibited the apoptosis of BC cells by regulating the up-regulation of FasL and Bcl-2 expression.
Role of DNA Methyltransferases (DNMTs) in metastasis
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad Zahid , Sabitaliyevich Uteuliyev Yerzhan , Rabandiyarov Marat , Arystanbekuly Arystanbekov Talant
Published: May 2022

The DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) family constitutes a conserved set of DNA-modifying enzymes which have essential functions in the modulation of epigenetics. The fundamental role of epigenetic changes in carcinogenesis and metastasis is increasingly being appreciated. DNMTs (DNMT1, DNMT3A and DNMT3B) have been shown to drive metastasis. Epigenetic machinery is installed at the target sites for the regulation of a wide variety of genes. Moreover, microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs also shape the epigenetic landscape during metastasis. In this review, we have provided a snapshot of the quintessential role of DNMTs in metastasis. We also summarize how lncRNAs and circRNAs play roles in the epigenetic regulation of a myriad of genes.
MicroRNA214 expression inhibits HCC cell proliferation through PTK2b/ Pyk2
Authors: Chen Cui , Tao Zhen , Li Ya , Li Jie , Xu Yang
Published: May 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are crucial regulatory molecules that act as the most significantly downregulated microRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). PTK2b/Pyk2 is a non-receptor protein tyrosine kinase, which plays an important role in the development and metastasis of cancer. In this study, we explored the expression level and functional relationship between MicroRNA-214 (miR-214) and PTK2b/ Pyk2 in liver cancer cells. For this purpose, we analyzed the expression of miR-214 and PTK2b/Pyk2 in 38 cases of HCC and paired non-neoplastic tissue specimens using real-time PCR. MTT, cell cycle and construct recombinant plasmids analysis were used to explore the effects of miR-214 and PTK2b/Pyk2 on liver cancer cell proliferation. Results showed that the expression level of mir-214 in liver cancer tissues and liver cancer cell lines was significantly lower than that in normal tissues and cells, while the expression of PTK2b/Pyk2 was significantly increased. The overexpression of mir-214 or inhibition PTK2b/Pyk2 inhibited the proliferation of HCC cells. This research showed that mir-214 has an inhibitory effect on liver cancer through the expression of PTK2b/Pyk2.
PMN Apoptosis Induced by SNHG11 through the Inhibition of Endotoxin-induced Acute Lung Injury NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Hu Wenhui , Ying Yaping , Jin Lihong , Chen Lingling , Zhou Tingmin , Jin Xiaohong
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to investigate the impacts of small nucleolar RNA host gene 11 (SNHG11) on nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) apoptosis in rats with endotoxin-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Forty rats were the experimental subjects. They were randomly grouped as a control group (Group C), an endotoxin group (Group E), an inhibitor group (Group I), and an activator group (Group A), with 10 rats in each group. The endotoxin-educed ALI rat model was built. Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABGT) was performed, and the Wet/Dry (W/D) ratio of lung weight was determined. The pathological variations in rat pulmonary tissues were scrutinized and scored. PMN in peripheral blood was isolated; its apoptosis was assessed, and its total NF-κB p65 and p-NF-κB p65 expressions were assessed. The expression of SNHG11 mRNA in pulmonary tissues was assessed. Results: Compared to Group C, the W/D ratios and pathological scores of Group E, Group I, and Group A boosted notably (P <0.05), while their ABGT indicators and PMN apoptosis rates dropped (P <0.05). Compared to Group E and Group I, the W/D ratio and pathological score of Group A dropped notably (P <0.05), while its ABGT indicators and PMN apoptosis rate boosted (P <0.05). Compared to Group C, the p-NF-κB p65 and SNHG11 expressions boosted in Group E, Group I, and Group A (P <0.05); compared to Group E and Group I, the p-NF-κB p65 and SNHG11 expressions in Group A dropped (P <0.05). SNHG11 could relieve endotoxin-induced ALI, which might be associated with the acceleration of PMN apoptosis and the inhibition of the NF-κB pathway.
The role of CTRP9 on Inhibition the High-glucose-induced Apoptosis of Myocardial Cells via Wnt/β-catenin Signal Pathway
Authors: Zhang Qian , Pei Liying , Fu Jiali , Zhao Rui
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effect of CTRP9 regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway on the high-glucose-induced apoptosis of myocardial cells. For this purpose, high glucose was used to establish the myocardial cell apoptosis models on H9c2 cells which were later divided into 11 groups, with different treatments: NG group, NG+C group, NG+SKL group, NG+SKL+C group, NG+C59 group, HG group, HG+C group, HG+SKL group, HG+SKL+C group, HG+C59 group and HG+4h C group. Following the treatment, a TUNEL assay was applied to determine the apoptotic rate of cells, and RT-PCR and Western blot were carried out to determine the expression of targeted proteins or genes and the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway. In comparison with the cells in the NG group, cells following the 48 hours of treatment with 25 mmol/L high glucose experienced an acute increase in the apoptotic rate, with upregulation of Caspase-3 and Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2. In addition, CTRP9 treatment for the high-glucose-treated myocardial cells partially reversed the effect of single treatment by high glucose, with manifestations of decreased apoptotic rate, downregulation of caspase-3 and Bax, upregulation of Bcl-2 and inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway. Furthermore, SKL2001, the agonist of the Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway, was added into the high-glucose-treated cells and increased the apoptotic rate, with the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway, which, however, was reversed by the treatment of CTRP9. In general, CTRP9, by inhibiting the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway, can alleviate the high-glucose-induced apoptosis of myocardial cells.
Effects of Semecarpus anacardium L.f. ethanol extract on serum biochemical parameters and antioxidant activity of DAL induced mice
Authors: Abdulla Shebriya , Pavithra E Amrisa , Santhy K S
Published: May 2022

Semecarpus anacardium L.f. nuts is one of the best, versatile and most commonly used herbs as a household remedy, distributed in sub-Himalayan region, Tropical region, Bihar, Bengal, Orissa and central and south parts of India. In this work, the anticancer efficacy of ethanol extract of Semecarpus anacardium nuts (EESA) was tested in Swiss albino mice with induced Dalton's Ascites Lymphoma (DAL). Ethanol extract of S. anacardium nuts was given daily for 14 days at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight, after 24 hrs of tumor inoculation. After receiving the final dose and fasting for 18 hrs, the mice were euthanized. Serum biochemical and antioxidant characteristics were measured to determine antitumor activity. 5-Fluoro Uracil, a typical medication, was employed as a positive control. In comparison to the control group, ethanol extract-treated mice restored biochemical and antioxidant parameters to near-normal levels. Biochemical and antioxidant parameters in the Dalton's Ascited Lymphoma (DAL) animal model treated with EESA exhibited similar effects as the positive control drug 5-fluorouracil. Overall, the active ingredients present in ethanol extract of Semecarpus anacardium nuts, modulate serum biochemical and antioxidant parameters and bring about anti-tumor activity against Dalton's Ascites Lymphoma (DAL) in mice.
ZMIANY POWIERZCHNI I ZARASTANIE JEZIOR W POLSCE
Authors: CHOIŃSKI ADAM , SKOWRON RAJMUND
Published: May 2022

The paper presents changes in the surface area and overgrowing of the largest Polish lakes (> 500 ha). It has been established (on the basis of 4 analyzed time sequences) that over the last 80 years there has been a gradual reduction of the lake area. At the same time, the area occupied by emerged vegetation has increased. This is confirmed by the lake overgrowth rate and the shoreline overgrowth rate.
The specifics of pulsar radio emission
Authors: Losovsky Boris Ya.
Published: May 2022

A characteristic property of pulsars is pulsed periodic radio emission, which has a high stability of periods. Despite the high stability of the emission periods of pulsars, monitoring the time of arrival of pulses (timing) shows the presence of different types of irregularities: variations of residual deviations, changes in the shape of the pulse, switching on and off of radio emission, and rotation discontinuities. Numerous observations of the radio emission of pulsars indicate that they are caused mainly by processes occurring in the pulsar’s magnetosphere. The special interest causes the observations of a pulsar in the Crab Nebula, performed, in particular, at Jodrell Bank and Pushchino Radio Astronomy Observatory of Lebedev Physical Institute. The connection between the scattering of radio pulses and the measure of the pulsar dispersion, which was established earlier in Pushchino together with Jodrell Bank, has been confirmed. The observed variations in the scattering of radio pulses and their partial correlation with the dispersion measure are explained by the eclipse of the pulsar by plasma clouds with electron density fluctuations significantly exceeding the corresponding fluctuations in the interstellar medium. The question of a possible connection between glitches, dispersion measure variations, radio pulses scattering, and gamma-ray flares is discussed.
Genotype by environment interaction and association of yield contributing traits in sunflower genotypes under the environmental condition of Sargodha, Pakistan
Authors: Yousaf Muhammad Arslan , Akhtar Naeem , Gul Samrin , Saleem Usman , Mahmood Talat , Aziz Ahsan , Asif Muhammad , Raza Nadeem
Published: May 2022

Oil content and other yield contributing metric traits are highly influenced by environmental conditions hence, the phenotype of a trait is a response of interaction between environment and genetic makeup of crop. Climate change is one of the major challenge faced by growers nowadays because it adversely affects the growth and development of sunflower and ultimately reduce oil content. Therefore, keeping in view the challenge of climate change, the present research was conducted during 2019, to evaluate the performance of 28 sunflower hybrids under normal and terminal heat stress conditions at the research farms of the College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha, Sargodha-Pakistan. Pakistan. Data were recorded on days to 100% flowering, stem girth (cm), head diameter (cm), 100-achene weight (g) and oil contents (%). Analysis of variance revealed the presence of genetic diversity among 28 hybrids for all the traits under consideration. Irrespective of traits, the mean square revealed the role of experimental error was minimum than the environment, genotype and their interaction (G × E). The environmental influence was found to be 68.94, 49.99, 53.94% for days to 100% flowering, stem girth (cm) and 100-achene weight (g), respectively. However, genotypes play a major source of variation for head diameter (cm) and oil content (%). Oil content has a significant positive correlation with traits under study. Based on mean performance under normal and terminal heat stress conditions hybrid SF-19033 and SF-19028 performed best for yield contributing traits and adoptable under the environmental conditions of Sargodha-Pakistan.
Numerical simulation of inner characteristics in COREX shaft furnace with center gas distribution: influence of bed structure
Authors: Zhou Heng , Xu Kun , Huang Jian , Kou Mingyin , Wu Shengli , Zhang Zuoliang , Zhao Baojun , Ma Xiaodong
Published: May 2022

The packed structure, such as packing density and particle size distribution, of COREX shaft furnace, directly affects the gas flow and reaction process. A two-dimensional steady-state mathematical model was developed to study the influence of five packed structures on the gas flow, pressure distribution, species composition, and solid metallization rate in a COREX shaft furnace with center gas supply. The results show that the gas velocity is relatively uniform along the radial direction under Case-P. Under Case-InV and Case-V, the gas velocity increases and decreases gradually from the center to the wall zone respectively. The gas velocity contour in the upper part of the shaft in Case-M is ‘M’ shape, while it shows ‘W’ shape in Case-W. The order of pressure drop under five packed structures is Case-P > Case-M > Case-W > Case-InV > Case-V, and for the solid metallization rate, the order is Case-V > Case-W > Case-P > Case-M > Case- InV. As Case-V has the lowest pressure drop and largest metallization rate, the charging matrix in practical production should develop towards a ‘V’ shaped burden profile in the upper of the packed bed in the COREX shaft furnace.
Research progress on N6-methyladenosine in the human placenta
Authors: Zhou Wenbo , Xue Pingping , Yang Yuqi , Xia Lin , Yu Bin
Published: May 2022

Objectives

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most common epigenetic modifications of eukaryotic RNA. Under the jointly reversible regulation of related enzymes, m6A regulates many aspects of RNA, such as translation, stability and degradation. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of m6A in placenta-related diseases.

Methods

Data were compiled from 2018 to 2021 citations in PubMed and Google Scholar using the keywords: placenta AND N6-methyladenosine. Seven studies were included.

Results

In this study, we introduced some conventional methods to detect m6A modification at the whole RNA, region (peak) and single base levels. We also summarized the current studies of m6A modification in the placenta and briefly describe m6A in placental-related diseases, including recurrent miscarriage (RM), preeclampsia (PE) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Conclusions

Although the relevant reports are still in the preliminary stage and some results are inconsistent, studies on methylation m6A modification have contributed new ideas for the research of reproductive diseases, providing a new basis for the diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and monitoring of related diseases.
Metabolic characterization of amniotic fluid of fetuses with isolated choroid plexus cyst
Authors: Li Shangqing , Lyu Guorong , Li Shaohui , Yang Hainan , Yang Yiru
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To investigate the amino acid (AA)-related metabolic characteristics of amniotic fluid (AF) obtained by ultrasound-guided amniocentesis from fetuses with isolated choroid plexus cysts of the central nervous system.

Methods

Ultrasound-guided amniocentesis was performed on 17 fetuses with isolated choroid plexus cysts (ICPCs) and 17 normal fetuses. The AF samples from normal pregnancies were matched with the case samples in a 1:1 ratio based upon gestational age. The AF samples from the 34 fetuses were analyzed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS). Then, the peak areas of the metabolites were analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and univariate statistical analysis.

Results

This study ultimately identified 31 AAs. Seven differentially abundant AAs were screened out, including citrulline, ethanolamine, aspartic acid, valine, 5-hydroxylysine, proline, and isoleucine (p-value<0.05). A total of 4 metabolic pathways were significantly altered in the ICPC group: valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis; valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation; pantothenate and coenzyme A (CoA) biosynthesis; and arginine biosynthesis.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that fetuses with ICPC have disrupted levels of citrulline, ethanolamine, aspartic acid, valine, 5-hydroxylysine, proline, and isoleucine, which may ultimately affect fetal glucose and lipid metabolism.
Can sonographic imaging of the fetal pancreas predict perinatal outcomes in gestational diabetes mellitus?
Authors: Golbasi Hakan , Bayraktar Burak , Golbasi Ceren , Omeroglu Ibrahim , Adiyaman Duygu , Sever Baris , Ekin Atalay
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To evaluate whether fetal pancreatic echogenicity and its measurements are associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and perinatal outcomes.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted with 150 pregnant women with a singleton pregnancy. The study included pregnant women between 30 and 41 weeks with or without GDM. Fetal pancreatic circumference was measured using the free-hand tracking function. The echogenicity of the fetal pancreas was compared with the echogenicity of the liver and bone (ribs, spine) and classified as Grades 1, 2 and 3. The relationship between maternal characteristics and perinatal outcomes with fetal pancreas measurements and echogenicity was evaluated.

Results

Pregnant women with 75 GDM and 75 without GDM were included in the study. Mean fetal pancreas circumference measurements were significantly higher in pregnant women with GDM than in those without GDM (p=0.001). Hyperechogenic (Grade 3) fetal pancreas was significantly higher in pregnant women with GDM than in pregnant women without GDM, and there was a positive correlation between pancreatic echogenicity and HbA1c levels in pregnant women with GDM (r=0.631, p<0.01). There was a significant relationship between pancreatic echogenicity, measurements and adverse neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with GDM, and pancreas measurements were significantly higher in pregnant women with cesarean delivery.

Conclusions

Fetal pancreatic echogenicity and measurements in pregnant women with GDM can give an idea about glucose regulation and adverse perinatal outcomes.
Association between maternal thyroid function and risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia
Authors: Medjedovic Edin , Stanojevic Milan , Kurjak Asim , Begic Edin , Iglica Amer , Jonuzovic-Prosic Sabaheta
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To investigate the influence of maternal level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) one by one or in combination on incidence of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia.

Methods

The study included pregnant women (n=107) hospitalized in the period from July 1, 2020 to October 10, 2021 at the Department of Pathology of Pregnancy of the University Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Clinical Center Sarajevo (UCCS) (Bosnia and Herzegovina), due to hypertensive disorder in pregnancy without symptoms of impaired thyroid function. In all patients fulfilling inclusion criteria TSH, FT3, and FT4 using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA, Roche Diagnostics, Basel, Switzerland) were checked. There were two groups of patients: one with gestational hypertension (G1) and the other with preeclampsia (G2). The programs SPSS for Windows 25.0, SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL, USA and Microsoft Excel 11, Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA, USA were used for statistical analysis using nonparametric Mann-Whitney U test because the distribution of the data was not normal. The result was considered statistically significant if p<0.05.

Results

Gestational age at delivery (G2 36.86 ± 3.79 vs. G1 38.94 ± 2.15; p=0.002) and birth weight (G2 2,841.36 ± 1,006.39 vs. G2 3,290.73 ± 745.6; p=0,032) were significantly different between the investigated groups. The difference between the peak systolic (p=0.002), peak diastolic blood pressure (p=0.007), TSH (p=0.044), and FT3 (p=0.045) were statistically significant. Impaired thyroid function was observed more often in G2 than in G1.

Conclusions

Thyroid function was more often affected adversely in pregnancies complicated with preeclampsia than with gestational hypertension. Based on the results of our study it might be prudent to check thyroid hormones in all asymptomatic pregnancies with preeclampsia or gestational hypertension. These findings need confirmation in larger better designed prospective studies.
Minority Rights in Ukraine After the Maidan Revolution: Change or Continuity?
Authors: Terzyan Aram
Published: May 2022

This paper explores the state of minority rights in Ukraine following the 2014 Maidan revolution.

The Maidan revolution has been largely regarded as the most radical attempt at de-institutionalizing post-Soviet politics and order since 1991 and forging a new Ukrainian nation.

Such an endeavor leads us to address a critical question of what the core implications are on minority rights in Ukraine, which encompass religious, ethnic, and sexual minority rights. This analysis places special emphasis on minority religious rights in post-Maidan Ukraine. Findings suggest that the Maidan revolution has not led to substantial policy reform as it pertains to minorities, thus leaving many of their problems unaddressed. While the Maidan aided Ukraine in becoming more “Ukrainian” and reinforced the national identification of the Ukrainian population, it marked a considerable shift in nationalism by ensuing adverse effects on the Russian-speaking population in Eastern Ukraine, as well as on other ethnic and religious minority groups. Moreover, the Ukrainian authorities’ efforts at gaining “spiritual independence” from the Russian Orthodox Church have been met with challenges for religious minority groups. Despite the legislative measures aimed at protecting the rights of LGBTI community, their effective implementation remains a significant and unresolved problem.
Physico-chemical and nutraceutical properties of Cola lepidota seed oil
Authors: Oni Sarah , Akinlabi Akinola , Bamisaye Abayomi , Ojo Josephine
Published: May 2022

The extraction and preliminary characterization of oil from Cola lepidota seed were studied in this paper. The extraction was done in a Soxhlet extractor with n-Hexane as the solvent. The iodine value, acid value, saponification value, and peroxide value of the oil were all measured quantitatively. The oil yielded 1.10 percent, with an iodine value of 57.67 ± 0.01 mg/100 g, an acid value of 15.50 ± 0.01 mg/KOH/g, a saponification value of 125.69 ± 0.15 mg/KOH/g, and a peroxide value of 5.04 ± 0.06 meq/kg/L. GC-MS was used to identify phytochemicals such as hydrouracil, 1,2-propanediol, glycerine, divinyl sulphide, glucitol, and benzoic acid. The findings of this study revealed that the oil has phytochemicals and nutraceutical qualities, indicating that it might be screened and employed in supplementing human and animal diets, as well as in the production of cosmetics and detergents.
Cytokine gene polymorphism frequencies in Turkish population living in Marmara region
Authors: Ozdilli Kursat , Ogret Yeliz Duvarcı , Oguz Suleyman Rustu , Abatay Sel Figen , Senturk Ciftci Hayriye , Kekik Cinar Cigdem , Pehlivan Sacide , Savran Oguz Fatma
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Sequence variants in cytokine genes are related to affect cytokine gene levels. In this study, it was aimed to examine eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in five cytokine genes (TNF-α, INF-γ, IL-6, IL10, TGF-β) for the Turkish population living in Marmara region and to reveal the genetic distance between the study group and other populations.

Methods

In this study, three-hundred unrelated healthy individuals were involved and all genotyping were performed by using sequence-specific primers PCR (PCR-SSP) method. The SNP data were analyzed for Hardy Weinberg equilibrium fit by calculating expected genotype frequencies and comparing them to the observed values using Arlequin software version 3.1. The genetic distances between the study group and other populations were calculated and a neighbor-joining tree was constructed by PHYLIP.

Results

The observed genotypes of TNF-α (−308), IFN-γ (+874), TGF-β (codon 10), and TGF-β (codon 25) of the subjects were found to be similar with other populations investigated in this study. However, there is a significant frequency difference for IL-6 and IL-10 genotypes between populations.

Conclusions

The current population study provided more reference values for these polymorphisms and generated a control group to be used in further association studies especially for transplantation, GVHD, autoimmune and malign disease.
2,5-Dihydroxy-1,4-quinones appended with two phosphinyl groups: syntheses, structures, and redox properties
Authors: Hoang David , Ha Alea , Dobson Timothy J. , Lear Madison E. , McLoughlin Connor P. , Phan Nathan A. , Valente Edward J. , Urnezius Eugenijus
Published: May 2022

Low temperature reactions of 1,4-dichloro-2,5-dimethoxybenzene with two equivalents of lithium diisopropylamide (LDA) followed by quenches with chlorophosphines ClPR2 (R = Ph or iPr) yielded 1,4-bis(diphenylphosphino)-2,5-dichloro-3,6-dimethoxy-benzene (1a) and 1,4-bis(diisopropylphosphino)-2,5-dichloro-3,6-dimethoxy-benzene (1b). Reactions of 1a-b with 30% hydrogen peroxide yielded 1,4-bis(diphenylphosphinyl)-2,5-dichloro-3,6-dimethoxybenzene (2a) and 1,4-bis(diisopropylphosphinyl)-2,5-dichloro-3,6-dimethoxybenzene (2b). Subjecting compounds 2a-b to BBr3/CH3OH resulted in 2,5-bis(diphenylphosphinyl)-3,6-dichlorohydroquinone 3a and 2,5-bis(diisopropylphosphinyl)-3,6-dichlorohydroquinone 3b. Reactions of 3a-b with K2S2O8 under basic conditions followed by acidification allowed for isolation of 2,5-bis(diphenylphosphinyl)-3,6-dihydroxy-quinone (4a) and 2,5-bis(diisopropylphosphinyl)-3,6-dihydroxy-quinone (4b). Compounds 1a-b – 4a-b were fully characterized by spectroscopic methods (nuclear magnetic resonance [FT-NMR] spectroscopy, infrared [FT-IR] spectroscopy, and high resolution mass spectrometry [HRMS]); 3a-b and 4a-b were also investigated by cyclic voltammetry. Compounds 1a-b , 2a , and 4a-b were also characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods.
Comparative study of phenolic profile, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of aqueous extract of white and green tea
Authors: Gabr Gamal A. , Hassan Hazem M.M. , Seshadri Vidya D. , Hassan Nahla M.M.
Published: May 2022

The sole difference between white tea (WT) and green tea (GT) is the former that made only from the buds and young leaves of the Camelia sinensis plant, whilst the latter is made from matured tea leaves. The phytochemical profiles, phenolic compounds, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity of two varieties of Camellia sinensis teas, white and green, were compared in this study. Total antioxidant capacity, reducing power, DPPH radical scavenging, and Fe+2 chelating activities were used to determine antioxidant activities in water extract of GT and WT. The largest level of phenolic content was discovered in WGTE compared with the lowest amount was found in WWTE (290.67 mg/100 g tea and 185.96 mg/100 g tea, respectively). Phenoilc acids (gallic, benzoic, chlorogenic, ellagic, and ρ-coumaric acids) and flavonoids (rutin and kampherol) were found in the two extracts. The findings of DPPH radical scavenging assays were 84.06 and 82.37% inhibition. In vitro antimicrobial activity was indicated that (WWTE and WGTE) had a high level of activity against Staphylococcus aureus, and gave negative activity against Salmonella typhimurium, and Aspergillus Niger. The WT and GT extracts are a great source of natural antioxidants with biological effects on human health.
Histochemical Characterization of the Dorsal Raphe-Periaqueductal Grey Dopamine Transporter Neurons Projecting to the Extended Amygdala
Authors: Zhao Qin , Ito Tetsufumi , Soko Chika , Hori Yoshie , Furuyama Takafumi , Hioki Hiroyuki , Konno Kohtarou , Yamasaki Miwako , Watanabe Masahiko , Ohtsuka Satoshi , Ono Munenori , Kato Nobuo , Yamamoto Ryo
Published: May 2022

The dorsal raphe (DR) nucleus contains many tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons which are regarded as dopaminergic (DA) neurons. These DA neurons in the DR and periaqueductal gray (PAG) region (DADR-PAGneurons) are a subgroup of the A10 cluster, which is known to be heterogeneous. This DA population projects to the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and has been reported to modulate various affective behaviors. To characterize, the histochemical features of DADR-PAGneurons projecting to the CeA and BNST in mice, the current study combined retrograde labeling with Fluoro-Gold (FG) and histological techniques, focusing on TH, dopamine transporter (DAT), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGlut2). To identify putative DA neurons, DAT-Cre::Ai14 mice were used. It was observed that DATDR-PAGneurons consisted of the following two subpopulations: TH+/VIP– and TH–/VIP+ neurons. The DAT+/TH–/VIP+ subpopulation would be non-DA noncanonical DAT neurons. Anterograde labeling of DATDR-PAGneurons with AAV in DAT-Cre mice revealed that the fibers exclusively innervated the lateral part of the CeA and the oval nucleus of the BNST. Retrograde labeling with FG injections into the CeA or BNST revealed that the two subpopulations similarly innervated these regions. Furthermore, using VGlut2-Cre::Ai14 mice, it was turned out that the TH–/VIP+ subpopulations innervating both CeA and BNST were VGlut2-positive neurons. These two subpopulations of DATDR-PAGneurons, TH+/VIP– and TH–/VIP+, might differentially interfere with the extended amygdala, thereby modulating affective behaviors.