bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Respon Pertumbuhan Ikan Nila (Oreochromis niloticus) yang diberi Pakan Supplementasi Bawang Putih (Allium sativum) pada Sistem Bioflok
Authors: Rijal Muhammad Azharul , Purbomartono Cahyono , Jannah Izanatu Fathuhil
Published: February 2022

Ikan nila (Oreochromis niloticus) merupakan salah satu komoditas unggulan perikanan yang seiring dengan meningkatnya permintaan di pasaran, ssehingga produktivitasnya harus dipacu terus menerus dengan berbagai teknolgi akuakultur sistem intensif. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian ekstrak bawang putih melalui pakan dalam meningkatkan pertumbuhan ikan nila yang dipelihara dalam sistem bioflok. Penelitian dilaksanakan pada bulan Maret sampai bulan Juni 2021 di Laboratorium Basah Kolam Bioflok. Penelitian menggunakan metode eksperimen berupa Rancangan Acak Lengkap dengan 3 perlakuan 1 kontrol serta 3 kali ulangan. Parameter yang diamati berupa parameter pertumbuhan meliputi pertambahan berat dan panjang, laju pertumbuhan spesifik (spesific growth rate/SGR), konversi pakan (food convertion ratio/FCR), dan efisiensi pakan serta jumlah flok yang terbentuk dalam ember kultur. Parameter pendukung berupa kualitas air yang meliputi suhu dan pH. Data dianalisis menggunakan ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) pada taraf kepercayaan 95%, dilanjutkn dengan uji DMRT (Duncan Multiple Range Test). Data kualitas air dianalisis secara deskriptif. Penambahan serbuk bawang putih (Allium sativum) dalam pakan untuk meningkatkan pertumbuhan ikan nila (O. niloticus) hanya berpengaruh nyata pada pertambahan panjang dan SGR, sedangakan pertambahan berat dan FCR serta efisiensi pakan tidak berbeda nyata. Dosis optimum yang mampu meningkatkan pertumbuhan ikan nila yaitu pada P3 22,5 g/kg pakan. Berdasarkan penelitian ini, pemberian serbuk bawang putih melalui pakan berpotensi meningkatkanpertumbuhan ikan nila yang dipelihara dalam sistem bioflok.
Моделювання взуття в універсальних програмах 3D графіки
Authors: Каменець С. Є. , Захожа Н. Ю.
Published: February 2022

Стаття присвячена розвитку методів 3D моделювання і проектування виробів індустрії моди з використанням універсальних комп'ютерних програм 3D графіки.
Мета: підвищення конкурентоспроможності виробів взуттєвого виробництва та якості конструкторської підготовки за рахунок комп'ютеризації і впровадження новітніх інформаційних технологій при проектуванні та виготовленні виробів індустрії моди, а саме використання унів ерсальних систем 3Д моделювання для проектування взуття.
Результати дослідження. В світі є чимало систем автоматизованого проектування взуття, яке з успіхом використовують великі підприємства, але воно коштує дуже дорого і середній та малий бізнес не можуть його собі дозволити. Саме для невеликих підприємств була розроблена методика тривимірного моделювання взуття в доступному по ціні універсальному графічному редакторі Rhinoceros, яка використовує сплайновий метод представлення просторових об’єктів. Для апробації пропонованої методики було проведено аналіз трендів взуття на 2021 рок і побудована просторова модель жіночих ботильонів.
Наукова новизна. Розроблена методика тривимірного моделювання взуття із застосуванням технології NURBS (від Non-Uniform Rational B-Spline) моделювання в універсальних програмах 3D графіки, яка дозволяє з достатньо великою точністю розрахувати геометричне положення кожної точки на поверхні майбутньої моделі взуття і потім використовувати цю модель для проектування, побудови шаблонів деталей чи виготовлення прототипу за допомогою 3D-принтерів або пристроїв з ЧПУ.
Практична значимість. Запропоновано спосіб одержання просторової моделі взуття, фурнітури і аксесуарів індустрії моди в доступному для малого і середнього бізнесу універсальному редакторі 3D графіки, який надає можливість авторам об’єкта, що розробляється, побачити, оцінити і скорегувати, в разі необхідності, майбутній продукт ще до створення його прототипу. Просторові моделі дають можливість презентувати продукт замовникам, оцінити майбутні затрати та підвищити якість конструкторської підготовки виробництва. Крім того є можливість отримати плоскі деталі майбутнього виробу.
Indicators of the lipid composition of rat blood plasma under the action of ethylthiosulfanylate and chrome (VI) -induced toxicity
Authors:   nstitute of Animal Biology NAAS, Kotyk B. , Iskra R. ,   nstitute of Animal Biology NAAS
Published: February 2022

Ethylthiosulfanylate (ETS) is synthetic organosulfur compound and belongs to the class of thiosulfonates, which are the structural analogues of natural BACs of plant origin. Thiosulfonates and ETS in particular affect the regulation of pro/antioxidant status, lipid and protein metabolism in the tissues of laboratory rats. Cr(VI) compounds are characterized by potent prooxidant properties and high toxicity for cells of living organisms. The toxic effect of Cr(VI)-induced oxidative stress is accompanied by lipid metabolism disorders and the correction methods have not been sufficiently studied. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of ETS on some indicators of lipid metabolism in blood plasma of rats under the action of K2Cr2O7-induced toxicity. Animals were divided into 7 groups. Animals of group I injected daily intraperitoneally with 150 μl of physiological solution for 7 days. Experimental groups III and IV were administered daily intraperitoneally with K2Cr2O7 in a dose of 2.5 mg Cr(VI)/kg body weight, for 7 (group III) and 14 days (group IV). Rats of group II received intragastric injection of 1000 μl of oil daily for 14 days, than animals were injected daily intraperitoneally with 150 μl of physiological solution for 7 days. Experimental group V was intragastrically injected with ETS oily solution at a rate of 100 mg/kg of body weight daily for 14 days, than animals were injected intraperitoneally 150 μl of physiological solution daily for 7 days. Animals of groups VI and VII were intragastrically administered with ETS oily solution at a rate of 100 mg/kg of body weight daily for 14 days, than animals were injected intraperitoneally daily K2Cr2O7 in a dose of 2.5 mg Cr(VI)/kg body weight, for 7 (group VI) and 14 days (group VII). Rats were decapitated under thiopental anesthesia, after which blood was taken and divided into erythrocytes and plasma. The Cr(VI) action for 7 (group III) and 14 days (group IV) led to an increase in the content of total lipids and triglycerides in the blood plasma of rats, but the percentage of nonesterified cholesterol decreased. ETS partially compensates the Cr(VI)-induced toxicity by reducing the intensity of total lipids (groups VI, VII) and triglycerides (group VI) accumulation.
A database of sequenced genomes of different Streptomyces albus J1074 strains and uses thereof
Authors:   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Dolya B. , Busche T. ,   CeBiTec, Bielefeld University, Jørgensen T. S. ,   The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark Kemitorvet, Ochi K. ,   Department of Life Sciences, Hiroshima Institute of Technology, Gren T. ,   The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark Kemitorvet, Weber T. ,   The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark Kemitorvet, Kalinowski J. ,   CeBiTec, Bielefeld University, Luzhetskyy A. ,   Department of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Ostash B. ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv
Published: February 2022

Streptomyces albus J1074 has recently emerged as a powerful chassis strain for natural product research and discovery, as well as model to investigate various aspects of actinobacterial biology. A number of genetic tools have been developed to facilitate the use of this strain for the aforementioned purposes. One of the promising approaches is to introduce into J1074 genome mutations that would improve the antibiotic-producing capacity of J1074. Particularly, we reported a collection of spontaneous and genomically engineered J1074 mutants carrying mutation in genes for ribosomal protein S12, RNA polymerase beta subunit etc. We took advantage of this collection to build an in-house database which would host (both current and future) the primary and curated sequencing data for these mutants. The database is available at https://biotools.online/media/. The main benefits of the database lie in the known pedigree of the strains, which allows deep interpretation of the data. For example, there is lively – and unresolved – debate on the origins and consequences of the GC composition in actinobacteria. A better understanding of this issue should improve our knowledge of genome evolution in bacteria and will have a number of biotechnological ramifications. We used our Streptomyces albus J1074 dataset as an experimental model to reveal genome-wide spectrum of mutation, which appears to be biased towards elevated GC content. We also included the high-quality genomes of the other streptomycetes into our databse for comparative purposes. The genomic GC content in streptomycetes varies from 75 % to 66.5 %, with median value being 72 %. The GC content of secondary metabolic genes of S. coelicolor is less variable than that of primary metabolic genes, an indicative of different selection pressure on these gene groups. Along with selective constraints, the peculiarities of Streptomyces DNA mismatch repair might contribute to the skewed GC content of their genomes. Further uses of the database may include the development of a more precise knowledge of the mutation rate as well as population genetic processes within this species and genus.
Effect of coal fly ash and potassium humate on nitrogen and carbon contents in coal industry dump substrate and organs of Sorghum drummondii (Nees ex Steud.) Millsp. & Chase
Authors:   Institute of Ecology of the Carpathian, Beshley S. , Baranov V. ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Shpak Y. ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv
Published: February 2022

Researched ammonium, nitrite and nitrate nitrogen and organic carbon contents in gray-black unburned rock substrate from coal industry waste rock dump of Central Enrichment Factory (CEF) owned by PJSC “Lviv Coal Company” (Lviv Oblast, Ukraine) and total nitrogen and organic carbon contents in organs of Sorghum drummondii (Nees ex Steud.) Millsp. & Chase under effect of coal fly ash from the Dobrotvir thermal power plant (Lviv Oblast, Ukraine) and potassium humate “ГКВ-45” (made by LLC “PARK”, Lviv Oblast, Ukraine). Found high content of organic carbon and ammonium nitrogen in waste rock dump substrate with contrast to low content of nitrite and nitrate nitrogen compare to re­latively optimal soil mixture of the standard. Detected low carbon and nitrogen contents in organs of S. drummondii which grew on the waste rock dump substrate, as well as a significantly increased carbon/nitrogen-ratio (in this research the ratio of organic carbon content to total nitrogen content) compare to plants of the standard. Addition of coal fly ash in waste rock dump substrate decreased ammonium nitrogen and organic carbon contents with contrast to nitrite and nitrate nitrogen increasing, as well as organic carbon and total nitrogen in roots, stalks and leaves of researched plants. Introduction of potassium humate increased nitrite and nitrate nitrogen contents in waste rock dump substrate, organic carbon and total nitrogen contents in organs of S. drummondii. Changing of both studied macronutrients contents in plants under the effect of ameliorants caused decreasing carbon/nitrogen-ratio to the direction of the standard values. Growing of S. drummondii grass for 95 days increased organic carbon content in all options of substrates except the rock with potassium humate addition and decreased ammonium, nitrite and nitrate nitrogen contents in all researched options of substrates without exceptions. Noted that combined effect of coal fly ash and potassium humate on carbon and nitrogen contents in waste rock dump substrate and organs of S. drummondii is stronger than just one of both above mentioned researched ameliorants.
Changes in zinc content in hippocampal neurons under stress reactions of different origin
Authors:   Zaporizhzhia State Medical University, Kuchkovskyi O. , Zadorozhnia V. ,   Zaporizhzhia National University, Belenichev I. ,   Zaporizhzhia State Medical University, Fedotov E. ,   Zaporizhzhia State Medical University, Sukhomlinova I. ,   Zaporizhzhia State Medical University, Monova A. ,   Zaporizhzhia State Medical University
Published: February 2022

It was shown in investigations on animals that injection of 8-(benzensulfonilamono)-quinoline (8-BSQ) in the dose 400 mg/kg was accompanied by the development in them epileptiform cramps and hippocampal intravitale reaction correlated with longing of cramps in animals. It’s intensity rose under animal stressing with physical load, immobilization, alcoholization. 8-BSQ microapplication into the hippocampus induced also the development of intravitale reaction and cramps in animals. Changes observed as a result of carried out work are explained by possibility of 8-BSQ of zinc chelating in hippocampus. The experiments used 167 mice, of which 107 mice received 8- (benzenesulfonylamino) -quinoline (8-BSQ) at a dose of 200 mg/kg, 37 mice were administered this convulsant at a dose of 400 mg/kg, and 23 mice were microapplied in hippocampus at a dose of 0.1 ml of 0.5 % solution of 8-BSQ. The analysis of the data, which is shown in this study once again supports the previously hypothesis of the role of zinc in the release of glutamic acid from the presynaptic plaque into the synaptic cleft. The complex of zinc with the chelating agent 8-BSQ affect the postsynaptic membrane thus sensitizing it. This, in turn, enhances the stimulating effect of glutamate on the postsynaptic membrane. This mechanism is accompanied not only by excessive release of glutamic acid due to the cleavage of zinc ions 8-BSQ, but also by additional sensitization of the postsynaptic membrane, which leads to increased activity of the hippocampus, up to clonic-tonic seizures. An acute pre-stress of animals through exercise, immobilization and alcoholism leads to a more pronounced intensity of the intravital reaction of 8-BSQ and to prolonged seizures. Previous administration of calcium and magnesium salts does not significantly affect the intensity of the intravital reaction and the duration of seizures in animals. And the present study elucidate that the intensity of the intravital reaction and the duration of seizures in mammals depend on the dose of the injected reagent. There is a direct relationship between the intensity of the intravital reaction and the duration of seizures in animals. Microapplication of caustic soda on which the 8-BSQ solution was prepared did not cause an intravital reaction and convulsions. These data indicate that the cause of seizures is the interaction of 8-BSQ with zinc in the neurons of the hippocampus.
Uji Efektifitas Gel Ekstrak Sambung Nyawa (Gynura Procumbens (Lour.)Merr.) Terhadap Penyembuhan Luka Pada Kelinci Hiperglikemia
Authors: Pramukantoro Ganet Eko , Handayani Sri Rejeki
Published: February 2022

Kondisi hiperglikemia bisa menghambat proses penyembuhan luka. Pemberian gel ekstrak daun sambung nyawa (Gynura procumbens (Lour.)Merr.) menjadi salah satu pilihannya. Tujuan jangka panjang penelitian ini adalah membuktikan gel ekstrak daun sambung nyawa (Gynura procumbens (Lour.)Merr.) mampu menyembuhkan luka pada hewan uji yang diinduksi aloksan. Target khusus yang ingin dicapai adalah memperoleh obat alam berkhasiat mencegah terjadinya luka diabetik dan mengetahui dosis efektif gel ekstrak daun sambung nyawa (Gynura procumbens (Lour.)Merr.) sebagai penyembuh luka pada kondisi hiperglikemia. Penelitian ini menggunakan kelinci putih sebanyak 5 ekor. Pengujian dilakukan dengan membuat luka pada punggung hewan uji DM yang diinduksi aloksan. Aktivitas penyembuhan luka dilihat dengan membagi punggung hewan uji menjadi 5 bagian yang diberi perlakuan sesuai kelompoknya. Kelompok perlakuan dan kelompok kontrol positif dioles dengan gel 2 x sehari selama 9 hari dan dilakukan pengukuran panjang luka pada hari ke 1, 3, 5, 7, dan 9. Aktivitas penyembuh luka diabetik ditunjukkan dengan cara menghitung panjang luka masing-masing perlakuan dan dianalisa dengan uji Anova satu jalan dengan taraf kepercayaan 95%. Hasil dari penelitian menunjukkan bahwa formulasi gel ekstrak daun sambung nyawa dengan basis CMC Na memiliki hasil uji kualitas fisik yang baik seperti uji organoleptis warna sesuai warna ekstrak, aroma khas ekstrak daun sambung nyawa, penampilan kental, homogen, memiliki pH 6. Untuk uji daya sebar, daya lekat, dan viskositas, masing-masing memenuhi persyaratan yang diinginkan. Uji aktivitas penyembuhan luka menunjukkan bahwa kelompok gel ekstrak daun sambung nyawa dengan konsentrasi 5% mampu menyembuhkan paling baik, dengan persentase penyembuhan luka sebesar 67,00%.
Xanthine Oxidase Enzyme Inhibitory Effects of Combination Kumis Kucing (Orthosiphon aristatus L.) and Sidaguri Extract (Sida rhombifolia L.)
Authors: Fadilah Nitya Nurul
Published: February 2022

Hyperuricemia is a high level of uric acid in the blood and can cause gout. One of the drugs used to treat hyperuricemia is allopurinol with a mechanism of inhibiting the activity of xanthine oxidase (XO). The use of these drugs can cause various side effects if used for a long period of time. Sidaguri and kumis kucing plants are known to contain flavonoids and are proven to treat gout with each plant can reduce uric acid levels in the blood and increase its excretion in urine. This study was carried out to test the combination of sidaguri and kumis kucing extracts with certain ratios in inhibiting the activity of the xanthine oxidase enzyme.

            In this study, a combination of extracts was made using maceration method. The inhibition of xanthine oxidase activity by ethanol extract in vitro was determined by decreasing the production of uric acid monitored with a spectrophotometer at (λ) 292nm with xanthine as a substrate. Then determined the best IC50. As a comparison allopurinol is used.

           Based on the results of in vitro tests, the best comparison of the combination of kumis kucing extract and sidaguri extract can inhibit the activity of XO enzymes with the best IC50 in a row is the combination of kumis kucing and sidaguri extracts 1:1 (20.99ppm), 1:2 (39.64ppm), and 1:0.5 (52.28ppm).
Analisis Kelayakan Butir Soal pada Media INTERMATHLY (Interesting Mathematic Monopoly)
Authors: Siskawati Fury Styo , Suci Qurrota A'yun Angel Ardila , Irawati Tri Novita
Published: February 2022

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mendiskripsikan kelayakan butir soal pada media intermathly berbasis power point yang diterapkan di kelas VIII SMPN 6 Jember ditinjau dari validitas, reliabilitas, daya pembeda dan tingkat kesukaran. Perangkat pendukung game ini menggunakan software Affinity Designer Versi 1.8.5.703. Jenis penelitian ini yaitu deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif dan kuantitatif. Sampel yang digunakan sebanyak 31 siswa dengan triangulasi yang berupa triangulasi sumber. Metode pengumpulan datanya menggunakan tes dan metode analisis datanya menggunakan kolaborasi antara kualitatif yang meliputi reduksi, penyajian dan penarikan simpulan sedangkan kuantitatifnya menggunakan SPSS. Selanjutnya hasil penelitian yang diperoleh menunjukkan bahwa soal yang digunakan pada media pembelajaran interaktif di kelas VIII SMPN 6 Jember termasuk dalam kategori validitas yang baik, reliabilitasnya sangat tinggi, dan memiliki daya pembeda yang baik namun belum memiliki tingkat kesukaran yang baik. Perlunya hasil penelitian ini agar media intermathly tetap memperhatikan kriteria soal yang baik dan menghasilkan soal yang berkualitas serta nantinya menjadi acuan dalam peningkatan kualitas soal mendatang. Hal ini dimaksudkan untuk memberikan kualitas terbaiknya bagi dunia pendidikan di Indonesia khususnya pada pembelajaran matematika.
Analisis Kesulitan Siswa dalam Pembelajaran Daring pada Materi Geometri Kelas VII SMP Kota Pekanbaru
Authors: Dewi Widya Shintya , Maimunah Maimunah , Roza Yenita
Published: February 2022

Penerapan pembelajaran daring membuat siswa mengalami kesulitan dalam melakukan pembelajaran matematika terutama pada materi geometri. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui kesulitan yang dialami siswa selama pembelajaran daring berlangsung pada materi geometri kelas VII siswa SMP/MTs. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu metode deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Subjek dari penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas VII sebanyak 30 orang. Teknik pengumpulan data pada penelitian ini dilakukan dengan mengisi angket yang telah disediakan menggunakan aplikasi google form. Hasil yang diperoleh dari penelitian ini yaitu didapatkan bahwa kesulitan yang dialami siswa dalam pembelajaran matematika pada materi geometri saat pembelajaran daring berlangsung dipengaruhi oleh 2 faktor yaitu faktor internal dan faktor eksternal. Upaya yang dapat ditawarkan untuk mengatasi kesulitan yang dialami siswa ini dapat berupa, (a) guru dapat memberikan metode pembelajaran yang menyenangkan dan dapat menambah minat siswa dalam belajar, (b) memperbanyak latihan soal yang berkaitan dengan materi yang dipelajari, dan lain sebagainya.
Analisis Kesulitan Siswa dalam Pembelajaran Matematika Menggunakan Learning Management System Selama Pandemi
Authors: Melfawani Witri , Roza Yenita , Maimunah Maimunah
Published: February 2022

Pandemi yang dihadapi oleh dunia menyebabkan banyak perubahan. Salah satu perubahan yang terjadi adalah pembelajaran yang dulunya tatap muka menjadi pembelajaran jarak jauh. Pembelajaran jarak jauh ini mengharuskan guru dan siswa mulai menggunakan Learning Management System (LMS) yang terintegrasi secara online. Suasana pembelajaran yang baru dan harus melakukan penyesuaian mengalami beberapa kendala. Dengan demikian tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui kesulitan yang dirasakan oleh siswa selama pembelajaran matematika menggunakan LMS. Jenis penelitian ini adalah deskriptif kualitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan menyebarkan angket melalui google form dan wawancara dengan beberapa siswa. Subjek penelitian yang digunakan adalah siswa SMPN 1 Gunung Sahilan. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian didapatkan beberapa kesulitan yang dialami oleh siswa selama pembelajaran matematika dengan menggunakan LMS yaitu kesulitan teknis, kesulitan adaptasi, keterbatasan bahan ajar dan media pembelajaran. Dengan demikian dapat disimpulkan bahwa pembelajaran matematika menggunakan LMS selama pandemi masih memiliki banyak kekurangan.
Inventario florístico de la Reserva Hídrica Natural “Río Carcarañá” en la comuna de Pueblo Andino (Santa Fe, Argentina)
Authors: Pedrero Eugenia , Torales Mauro Matías , Saigo Germán
Published: February 2022

Introducción y objetivos: La Reserva Hídrica Natural “Río Carcarañá”, incluída en la Provincia Fitogeográfica Pampeana, constituye una de las escasas áreas protegidas del sur de la provincia de Santa Fe (Argentina), región profundamente modificada debido a la explotación agrícola y ganadera. Los estudios florísticos previos dentro de la reserva se refieren, fundamentalmente, a la zona de “El Espinillo” y la describen como un relicto de formaciones vegetales autóctonas con elementos florísticos de la Provincia Fitogeográfica del Espinal. El presente artículo tiene como objetivos realizar un relevamiento florístico dentro de los límites de la comuna de Pueblo Andino (departamento Iriondo) y estimar la distribución de especies a nivel de familias, identificar especies nativas y exóticas, como así también, reconocer las especiesrelevantes en función del contexto fitogeográfico en el que se circunscribe el área de estudio.M&M: Se realizaron nueve visitas y trabajo de campo al área entre 2014 y 2021 donde se colectaron ejemplares en estadio reproductivo, los cuales fueron procesados, determinados y luego depositados en el Museo de Ciencias Naturales “Dr. Ángel Gallardo” de la ciudad de Rosario.
Resultados: La flora examinada contiene 128 especies, agrupadas en 109 géneros y 42 familias, de las cuales 96 son nativas, y tres de ellas endémicas de Argentina.Las familias mejor representadas en cuanto a riqueza fueron Poaceae, Asteraceae y Fabaceae.Conclusiones: El inventario florístico resultante permite visualizar la relevancia del área de estudio como sitio de albergue de especies vegetales nativas y características de la región, ausentes en las áreas cultivadas circundantes.
Vaping in pregnancy: a geographically focused assessment of OBGYN provider knowledge regarding the safety and usage of electronic nicotine delivery systems
Authors: Craig Madeleine , Tamirisa Anita , Madhavan Rashmi , Jochum Ellen , Cohen Ariel , Zoorob Dani
Published: February 2022

Background: Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), or vaping, usage has become increasingly popular and generally has a positive perception by the public. However, ENDS are known to contain harmful chemicals and teratogens that induce numerous health consequences to both the pregnant mother and fetus. Despite this, physician knowledge and discussion of ENDS with their pregnant patients remains limited. The main objective of this study was to assess the knowledge of Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN) providers regarding the safety and usage of ENDS in pregnancy. A secondary objective was to understand providers’ practices to increase patient education and awareness of the effects of ENDS on pregnant women and developing fetuses. Methods: A 40-question online anonymous survey was developed for this study. The survey aimed at assessing OBGYN providers’ understanding of the usage of ENDS and potential harms. The questionnaire was distributed to OBGYN providers in the Midwest and South of the United States of America. Results: One Hundred and four respondents completed the survey (95% response rate). While 96% of providers investigated alcohol and tobacco use during prenatal visits, only 44% routinely inquired about ENDS use. Most providers noted that they had received no formal education about ENDS usage and 55% of providers reported an insufficient understanding of vaping. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that providers lack the education and knowledge about ENDS usage in pregnancy. This is concerning as ENDS usage is rapidly increasing in the United States of America. It is essential to develop educational resources for providers about the risks of vaping and incorporate questions ENDS usage into the social history, especially in pregnancy.
Evaluation of the clinical significance of serum pentraxin-3 levels in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Yeşil Fatih , Deveci Köksal , Karli Pervin
Published: February 2022

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is commonly associated with insulin resistance (IR), hyperinsulinemia, and dyslipidemia, which play a role in the development of endothelial dysfunction and promote the early onset of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical importance of pentraxin-3 levels in PCOS patients. Methods: Forty-five female patients diagnosed with PCOS according to the 2003 Rotterdam criteria and 42 healthy women were included in the study. All women studied were tested within 3 and 5 days of their menstrual cycle. Ultrasonographic evaluation of each patient was first conducted using the suprapubic method. Serum PTX-3, endothelin 1 (ET-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and nitric oxide levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Results: Pentraxine-3 (PTX-3) levels in the patient group were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < 0.05). PTX-3 levels in the group with hirsutism were significantly higher than those in the nonhirsutism group (p < 0.05). Homeostatic model assessment for IR (HOMA-IR) levels in the patient group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < 0.01). A weak negative correlation was found between PTX-3 and HbA1c levels. The accuracy rate of the PTX-3 test in distinguishing patients and nonpatients was moderate with a 0.634 area-under-the-curve value. Conclusions: During the follow-up of patients with PCOS, a decrease in serum PTX-3 levels associated with hirsutism and IR may be observed.
Nutritional status in the pediatric oncology patients
Authors: Triarico Silvia , Rinninella Emanuele , Attinà Giorgio , Romano Alberto , Maurizi Palma , Mastrangelo Stefano , Ruggiero Antonio
Published: February 2022

Nutritional status plays a vital role in the growth of children. In pediatric patients, disease-related malnutrition is a dynamic and multifactorial process supported by several factors such as inflammation, increased energy expenditure, decreased intake or reduced utilization of nutrients. In pediatric patients with malignancies, sarcopenia may coexist with malnutrition, amplifying its negative impact on prognosis. Careful monitoring of nutritional status both at diagnosis and during chemotherapy treatment allows early detection of the risk and/or presence of malnutrition. A rapid and personalized nutritional intervention can improve adherence to treatment, reduce complications and improve the patients’ quality of life.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress as a novel target to inhibit transdifferentiation of human retinal pigment epithelial cells
Authors: Ouyang Sha , Ji Dan , He Shikun , Xia Xiaobo
Published: February 2022

Background: The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is a critical event in the pathogenesis of proliferative vitreoretinopathy and neovascular age-related macular degeneration, which are the leading causes of severe vision loss. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been implicated in the EMT of many cell types and various ocular diseases. However, the relationship between ER stress and EMT in RPE cells remains unknown. Therefore, in the study, we explored the impact of ER stress on EMT in RPE cells. Methods: Different concentrations of tunicamycin (TM) and thapsigargin (TG) were used to induce ER stress in human RPE cells. The expression of epithelial marker, mesenchymal markers and some of genes/proteins involved in TGF-β/Smad signaling were analized by qPCR, western blot or immunostaining at the condition with or without stimulation of TGF-β2 (10 ng/mL). Boyden chamber and scratch assay were used to evaluate the migration of RPE cells, while cell viability and apoptosis of RPE cells were measured by MTT and TUNEL assay, respectively. Results: Treatment of RPE cells with TM and TG (24 h) reduced the expression of α -SMA and FN, and increased the expression of Occludin in a dose dependent manner at protein level, which was highly associated with the expression of GRP78. Treatment with TGF-β2 significantly increased the expression of α-SMA and FN, and decreased the expression of Occludin both in protein and mRNA levels, which was significantly inhibited by a 4h pre-treatment with TM. In addition, the expression of TGF-βRII and Smad2/3, and mRNAs of TGF-βRII and Smad3 were also decreased by the TM treatment. TM-induced ER stress inhibited RPE cell migration, and high concentrations of TM and TG reduced cell viability and induced apoptosis of RPE cells. Conclusions: Chemical induction of ER stress inhibited EMT and migration in RPE cells, possibly by inactivation of TGF-β signaling, suggesting that regulation of ER stress in RPE cells may be a new approach to prevent the development of intraocular fibrosis.
Noble metal nanomaterials for the diagnosis and treatment of hematological malignancies
Authors: Huang Xin , Mahmudul Hasan Md , Li Zengbei , Deng Xinjie , Su Xiaozhou , Xiao Zhongqing , Zhao Lingyun , Liu Ting , Li Hongyun
Published: February 2022

Background: Recently, the incidence of hematological malignancy, such as various leukemias, multiple myeloma and lymphoma, has revealed an increasing tendency, exhibiting a major impact on human health. Most of the available anti-cancer drugs, however, possess high non-targeted accumulation, dosage-associated toxicity, fast elimination, and lack specificity towards tumors, which restrict their utilization in clinical therapy. This extends also to cancer diagnosis where there is a lack of predictive biomarkers. Object: Noble metal nanomaterials (NM NMs) have the potential to overcome these shortcomings due to several characteristics including ease of synthesis, ultra-small size, easy surface modification and specific physicochemical properties. At present, gold-, silver- and platinum-based nanomaterials have been employed in the tracing and treatment of hematopoietic tumors through direct individual endocytosis or in innovative drug delivery systems (DDS) by conjugation with other targeting biomolecules. Purpose: In this mini review, we focus on the use of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR)-/surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)- and fluorescence-based diagnosis of NM NMs in the hematological malignancies. Furthermore, the treatment of hematological malignancies utilized the NM NMs or NM NMs-based therapy technology in the chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and photothermal therapy are depicted in depth. The construction of effective and promising NM NMs or NM NMs- dependent theranostic methodology has the potential to provide interdisciplinary knowledge in the development of clinical tracing, diagnosis and treatment of refractory hematological diseases.
Thymosin-α1 binds with ACE and downregulates the expression of ACE2 in human respiratory epithelia
Authors: Zhang Yu-Hang , Wang Wen-Yu , Pang Xiao-Cong , Wang Zhi , Wang Cheng-Zhuo , Zhou Hang , Zheng Bo , Cui Yi-Min
Published: February 2022

Background: Thymosin-α1 has been implicated into the treatment of novel respiratory virus Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), but the underlying mechanisms are still disputable. Aim: Herein we aimed to reveal a previously unrecognized mechanism that thymosin-α1 prevents COVID-19 by binding with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which was inspired from the tool of network pharmacology. Methods: KEGG pathway enrichment of thymosin-α1 treating COVID-19 was analyzed by Database of Functional Annotation Bioinformatics Microarray Analysis, then core targets were validated by ligand binding kinetics assay and fluorometric detection of ACE and ACE2 enzymatic activity. The production of angiotensin I, angiotensin II, angiotensin (1–7) and angiotensin (1–9) were detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Results: We found that thymosin-α1 impaired the expressions of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and angiotensin (1–7) of human lung epithelial cells in a dose-dependent way (p < 0.001). In contrast, thymosin-α1 had no impact on their ACE and angiotensin (1–9) expressions but significantly inhibited the enzymatic activity of ACE (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The bioinformatic findings of network pharmacology and the corresponding pharmacological validations have revealed that thymosin-α1 treatment could decrease ACE2 expression in human lung epithelial cells, which strengthens the potential clinical applications of thymosin-α1 to prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection.
PKG II secreted via the classical endoplasmic reticulum–Golgi apparatus secretory pathway blocks the activation of EGFR through phosporalting its threonine 406 and has an anti-tumor effect
Authors: Wu Yan , Wu Min , Wang Zibin , Pang Ji , Zhu Miaolin , Lan Ting , Yao Xiaoyuan , Qian Hai , Lin Xinyue , Jiang Lu , Tao Yan , Zhang Yujie , Chen Yongchang
Published: February 2022

Background: Protein kinase G type II (PKG II) is a serine/threonine-protein kinase that was originally isolated from the small intestinal mucosa with primary functions in the secretion of small intestinal mucosal cells, secretion of renin and aldosterone, and chondrocyte activities. Recent studies have shown that PKG II exerts anti-tumor effects, while a previous study by our group confirmed that PKG II inhibited the proliferation and migration of cancer cells. Interestingly, PKG II, which was typically bound to the intracellular side of the membrane, was detected in the serum and cell culture medium as a diagnostic biomarker of tumor growth. Thus, the aim of the present study was to elucidate the function and the targets of PKG II, and the mechanism underlying the secretion of this kinase. Methods: Construction of peptides and plasmids, RNA interference, Immunoelectron microscopy, Co-immunoprecipitation, N-glycosylation assay and Isolation of the Golgi apparatus were applied to investigate the secretory mechanism, and the targets and function of PKG II. Results: PKG II was secreted by enterochromaffin (EC) cells, which were components of the endocrine system in the gastrointestinal tract. Myristoylation of glycine 2 and the N-terminal sequence, especially the amino acids 3–30, acted as a signal peptide to induce the secretion of PKG II via the conventional protein secretory pathway. Moreover, recombinant PKG II inhibited the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced activation of the EGF receptor via phosphorylating the T406 of the extracellular domain and blocked EGF-triggered proliferation of various cancer cells. Conclusions: These results revealed a correlation between the endocrine system and the secretion of protein kinase, suggesting a novel protein secretory pathway. The resuls also indicated that secreted PKG II was a potential diagnostic biomarker and an inhibitor of tumor.
MAPK and β-Catenin signaling: implication and interplay in orthodontic tooth movement
Authors: Yong Jiawen , Groeger Sabine , Meyle Joerg , Ruf Sabine
Published: February 2022

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) requires the orthodontic forces (compressive and tensile strain) to subject to the periodontal ligament and mechanosensory cells in the periodontium and to achieve mechanotransduction by mechanoreceptors. In the context of OTM, a diverse array of signaling pathways are activated in mechanosensory cells that modulate bone resorption and formation in in vitro and in vivo models. The underlying molecular signal transduction, such as MAPK and β-Catenin signaling, that is involved in OTM, has been partially identified. It includes, but is not limited to genes and proteins which are related to osteogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, cementogenesis and inflammation. However, the interactive relation of β-Catenin and MAPK signaling remains ambiguous and diverse cross-talks are acting with each other. In this comprehensive text, we review the biology of OTM and reported experimental results on the activation/inhibition of these two signaling pathways during OTM. Here, we also focus on the implications and interplays between the MAPK and β-Catenin signaling in mechanosensory cells in response to orthodontic forces. Finally, the potential of further investigation strategies aimed at supporting orthodontic interventions are discussed. This review provides a conceptual framework for more comprehensive knowledge about signaling interaction during OTM.
Pre-pregnancy BMI but not mild stress directly influences Interleukin-6 levels and insulin sensitivity during late pregnancy
Authors: Bauer Ilena , Schleger Franziska , Hartkopf Julia , Veit Ralf , Breuer Muriel , Schneider Nathalie , Pauluschke-Fröhlich Jan , Peter Andreas , Preissl Hubert , Fritsche Andreas , Fritsche Louise
Published: February 2022

Background: This study investigates the influence of maternal stress during pregnancy on maternal insulin sensitivity and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in pregnant women (N = 277) in dependence of pre-pregnancy Body-Mass-Index (BMI). Methods: Gestational diabetes was diagnosed in 80 women. We used the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-D) to investigate maternal stress during pregnancy with a higher scoring indicating higher maternal stress level. IL-6 and cortisol were measured and maternal insulin sensitivity was assessed with the non-esterified fatty acid insulin sensitivity index (NEFA-ISI). Generalized Linear Model analysis was used to analyze effects within different stress groups. Results: Maternal low stress symptoms during pregnancy showed no significant association with maternal insulin sensitivity or IL-6. Higher cortisol levels during pregnancy were associated with elevated IL-6 concentrations. Pre-pregnancy BMI had the strongest positive effect on IL-6 levels and was negatively associated with insulin sensitivity during pregnancy. Conclusions: Therefore, preconceptional interventions to reduce BMI are needed to improve maternal metabolism during pregnancy.
Role of CK1ε-regulated PERIOD2 in STZ-induced diabetic myocardial injury
Authors: Huang Qin , Jiang Meng , Xia Zhong-Yuan , Lei Shaoqing , Zhao Bo , Qiu Zhen
Published: February 2022

Background: Circadian rhythms are fundamental to regulating metabolic processes and cardiovascular functions. Phosphorylated PERIOD2 (PER2) is a key factor in determining the period of the mammalian circadian clock. Moreover, casein kinase 1ε (CK1ε) primes the PER2 phosphoswitch and its stability. While diabetes contributes to the disorder of the circadian system, changes in PER2 forms and their regulatory mechanisms during diabetes remain unclear. In this study, we examined the impact of diabetes on PER2 and CK1ε signaling in the heart to determine the potential mechanism between them. Methods: A Type-1 diabetic rat model was established by intraperitoneally injecting rats with streptozotocin. General characteristics, cardiac function, histology, serum biochemistry, apoptosis index and circadian rhythm were analyzed in controls and diabetic rats treated with or without PF-670462 (a CK1ε inhibitor). A high-glucose model was created with H9c2 cells and treated with PF-670462 and PER2 siRNA. Cell viability, LDH release, dead/live rate and histology were determined to assess cellular injuries. RT-PCR and Western blot were used to evaluate the expression of PER2, CK1ε, phosphorylated PER2, and immunofluorescence (IF) was employed to determine PER2’s location. Results: STZ-induced diabetes prolonged PER’s period and upregulated the expression of CK1ε and phosphorylated PER2 compared to the controls. Inhibiting CK1ε and PER2 with PF-670462 downregulated the phosphorylation at Ser662 and the nuclear entry of PER2 in high glucose conditions. In addition, pharmacologically or genetically suppressing PER2 mitigated high-glucose-instigated myocardial injury. Conclusions: Diabetes compromised PER2 in association with activated CK1ε signaling. Targeting CK1ε-regulated PER2 alleviates myocardial injuries in the presence of high glucose.
Oncolytic viruses in melanoma
Authors: Robinson Camille , Xu Maria M , Nair Smita K , Beasley Georgia M , Rhodin Kristen E
Published: February 2022

Malignant melanoma recurrence remains heterogeneous in presentation, ranging from locoregional disease (i.e., local recurrence, satellites, in transit disease) to distant dermal and visceral metastases. This diverse spectrum of disease requires a personalized approach to management and has resulted in the development of both local (e.g., surgery, radiation, intralesional injection) and systemic (intravenous or oral) treatment strategies. Intralesional agents such as oncolytic viruses may also evoke local immune stimulation to induce and enhance the antitumor immune response. Further, it is hypothesized that these oncolytic viruses may convert immunologically “cold” tumors to more reactive “hot” tumor microenvironments and thereby overcome anti-PD-1 therapy resistance. Currently, talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC), a modified herpes virus, is FDA-approved in this population, with many other oncolytic viruses under investigation in both preclinical and trial settings. Herein, we detail the scientific rationale, current landscape, and future directions of oncolytic viruses in melanoma.
Complete blood count-derived inflammatory markers and survival in patients with localized renal cell cancer treated with partial or radical nephrectomy: a retrospective single-tertiary-center study
Authors: Zapała Łukasz , Ślusarczyk Aleksander , Garbas Karolina , Mielczarek Łukasz , Ślusarczyk Cezary , Zapała Piotr , Wróbel Andrzej , Radziszewski Piotr
Published: February 2022

We aimed to compare the predictive value of different inflammatory markers in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Four hundred ninety-five patients treated with nephrectomy for primary localized or locally advanced RCC between 2010 and 2018 were included in the retrospective analysis. The median follow-up for the entire cohort was 48 months. Based on the preoperative laboratory measurements, patients with higher neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), neutrophil/erythrocyte ratio (NER), derived neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (dNLR), and lower lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR) and hemoglobin/platelet ratio (HPR) had worse cancer-specific survival (CSS). In the multivariate analysis tumour stage, grade, age and high SIRI constituted independent factors predicting CSS. The model including SIRI values achieved C-index 0.903 (alternative multivariate models with SII and NLR 0.902 and 0.890, respectively). Age, tumour grade and high NER (or high SIRI/ SII in alternative models) were prognostic for overall survival. Markers of systemic inflammation might provide additional prognostic information (especially SIRI, SII, NLR and NER) and further increase the predictive accuracy of available models in localized and locally advanced renal cell carcinoma. For the first time, we show the prognostic value of neutrophil-to-erythrocyte ratio, which constitutes an independent risk factor of overall survival.
Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors as chemosensitizing compounds for the treatment of drug resistant cancers
Authors: Silpa Narayanan , Qiu-Xu Teng , Jagadish Koya , Jingquan Wang , Yehuda G. Assaraf , Charles R. Ashby , Zhe-Sheng Chen
Published: February 2022

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) proteins mediate various cellular processes such as DNA repair, regulation of transcription, protein-protein interaction, expression of inflammatory genes and programmed cell death. PARP proteins have a key role in DNA repair and recent findings have established the role of PARP inhibitors as potent chemotherapeutic drugs. Among the 18 members, PARP1 and PARP2 have been identified as the main targets for the development of pharmacological inhibitors to enhance the cytotoxic efficacy of established anticancer drugs. Furthermore, certain PARP1 and PARP2 inhibitors are being used in combination with other drugs for the treatment of various types of cancer. In different drug resistant cancer cell types, PARP inhibitors have been identified as compounds that reverse the resistance to topoisomerase inhibitors, DNA alkylating and methylating drugs by enhancing the DNA damage induced by these agents. In BRCA mutant cells, with abnormal homologous recombination (HR) repair mechanism, BER (Base Excision Repair Pathway) is responsible for survival of the cells. PARP enzymes play a major role in BER and PARP inhibitors effectively target BRCA mutant cells sparing normal cells via the concept of synthetic lethality, producing minimal toxicity to PARP inhibitors also have a significant role in treating pancreatic adenocarcinoma and castration-resistant prostate cancer. The aim of the current paper is to provide a review on PARP inhibitors and their application in the treatment of various cancer cells which are resistant to standard chemotherapeutic drugs.