bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative transcriptome analysis uncovers roles of hydrogen sulfide for alleviating cadmium toxicity in Tetrahymena thermophila
Authors: Lv Hongrui , Xu Jing , Bo Tao , Wang Wei
Published: December 2020

Background: Cadmium (Cd) is a nonessential heavy metal with potentially deleterious effects on different organisms. The organisms have evolved sophisticated defense system to alleviate heavy metal toxicity. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) effectively alleviates heavy metal toxicity in plants and reduces oxidative stress in mammals. However, the function of H2S for alleviating heavy metal toxicity in aquatic organisms remains less clear. Tetrahymena thermophila is an important model organism to evaluate toxic contaminants in an aquatic environment. In this study, the molecular roles of exogenously H2S application were explored by RNA sequencing under Cd stress in T. thermophila.Results: The exposure of 30 µM Cd resulted in T. thermophila growth inhibition, cell nigrescence, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content considerably increase. However, exogenous NaHS (donor of H2S, 70 µM) significantly alleviated the Cd-induced toxicity by inhibiting Cd absorbtion, promoting CdS nanoparticles formation and improved antioxidant system. Comparative transcriptome analysis showed that the expression levels of 9152 genes changed under Cd stress (4658 upregulated and 4494 downregulated). However, only 1359 genes were differentially expressed with NaHS treatment under Cd stress (1087 upregulated and 272 downregulated). The functional categories of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) by gene ontology (GO) revealed that the transcripts involved in the oxidation–reduction process, oxidoreductase activity, glutathione peroxidase activity, and cell redox homeostasis were the considerable enrichments between Cd stress and NaHS treatment under Cd stress. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) indicated that the carbon metabolism, glutathione metabolism, metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, and ABC transporters were significantly differentially expressed components between Cd stress and NaHS treatment under Cd stress in T. thermophila. The relative expression levels of six DEGs were further confirmed through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Conclusion: NaHS alleviated Cd stress mainly through inhibiting Cd absorbtion, promoting CdS nanoparticles formation, increasing oxidation resistance, and regulation of transport in free-living unicellular T. thermophila. These findings will expand our understanding for H2S functions in the freshwater protozoa.
Regional inequality in the Janani Suraksha Yojana coverage in India: A Geo-spatial Analysis
Authors: Mishra Prem Shankar , Kumar Pradeep , Srivast Shobhit
Published: December 2020

Introduction Although India has made significant progress in institutional delivery after the implementation of the National Rural Health Mission under which the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) is a sub-programme which played a vital role in the increase of institutional delivery in public facilities. Therefore, this paper aims to provide an understanding of the JSY coverage at the district level in India. Further, it tries to carve out the factors responsible for the regional disparity of JSY coverage at district levels. Methods The study used the National Family Health Survey data, which is a cross-sectional survey conducted in 2015-16, India. The sample size of this study was148,145 women aged 15-49 years who gave last birth in the institution during five years preceding the survey. Bivariate and multivariate regression analysis was used to fulfill the study objectives. Additionally, Moran’s I statistics and bivariate Local Indicator for Spatial Association (LISA) maps were used to understand spatial dependence and clustering of JSY coverage. Ordinary least square, spatial lag and spatial error models were used to examine the correlates of JSY utilization.Results The value of spatial-autocorrelation for JSY was 0.71 which depicts the high dependence of the JSY coverage over districts of India. The overall coverage of JSY in India is 36.4% and it highly varied across different regions, districts, and even socioeconomic groups. The spatial error model depicts that if in a district the women with no schooling status increase by 10% then the benefits of JSY get increased by 2.3%. Similarly, if in a district the women from poor wealth quintile, it increases by 10% the benefits of JSY also increased by 4.6%. However, the coverage of JSY made greater imperative to understand it due to its clustering among districts of specific states only.Conclusion It is well reflected in the EAGs states in terms of spatial-inequality in service coverage. There is a need to universalize the JSY programme at a very individual level. And, it is required to revisit the policy strategy and the implementation plans at regional or district levels.
Integrated transcriptome and proteome analysis reveals potential mechanisms for differential abdominal fat deposition between divergently selected chicken lines
Authors: Wang Lijian , Leng Li , Ding Ran , Gong Pengfei , Liu Chang , Wang Ning , Li Hui , Du Zhi-Qiang , Cheng Bohan
Published: December 2020

Background: Genetic selection for meat production performance of broilers concomitantly causes excessive abdominal fat deposition, accompanied by several adverse effects, such as the reduction of feed conversion efficiency and reproduction performance. Our previous studies have identified important genes regulating chicken fat deposition, using the Northeast Agricultural University broiler lines divergently selected for abdominal fat content (NEAUHLF) as an animal model. However, the molecular mechanism underlying fat deposition differences between fat and lean broilers remains largely unknown. Results: Here, we integrated the transcriptome (RNA-Seq) and quantitative proteome (isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation, iTRAQ) profiling analyses on abdominal fat tissues from NEAUHLF chicken lines. Differentially expressed genes (2167 DEGs, FDR < 0.01) and proteins (199 DEPs, FDR < 0.05) were identified in lean line compare to fat line, and down-regulated DEGs and DEPs mainly enriched in pathways related to fatty acid metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and PPAR signaling; and numerous up-regulated DEGs and DEPs both enriched in lysosome pathway. Moreover, several key DEGs and DEPs involved in long-chain fatty acid uptake, in situ lipogenesis (fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis), and lipid droplets accumulation were discovered after integrated transcriptome and proteome analysis. Conclusions: Together, our findings provided a novel insight into abdominal fat content discrepancy between the fat and lean chicken lines.
Sex-dependent differences in the secretome of human endothelial cells
Authors: Cattaneo Maria Grazia , Banfi Cristina , Brioschi Maura , Lattuada Donatella , Vicentini Lucia M.
Published: December 2020

Background: Cellular sex has rarely been considered as a biological variable in preclinical research, even when the pathogenesis of diseases with predictable sex differences is studied. In this perspective, proteomics, and ‘omics’ approaches in general, can provide powerful tools to obtain comprehensive cellular maps, thus favoring the discovery of still unknown sex-biased physio-pathological mechanisms.Methods: We performed proteomic and gene ontology (GO) analyses of secretome from human serum-deprived male and female endothelial cells (ECs) followed by ELISA validation. Apoptosis was detected by FACS and Western blot techniques, and efferocytosis through the ability of the macrophage cell line RAW-264.7 to engulf apoptotic ECs. PTX3 mRNA levels were measured by RT-qPCR. Results: Proteomic and GO analyses of the secretome from starved human male and female ECs demonstrated a significant enrichment in proteins related to cellular responses to stress and to the regulation of apoptosis in the secretome of male ECs. Accordingly, a higher percentage of male ECs underwent apoptosis in response to serum deprivation in comparison to female ECs. Among the secreted proteins, we reliably found higher levels of PTX3 in the male EC secretome. The silencing of PTX3 suggested that male ECs were dependent on its expression to properly carry out the efferocytotic process. At variance, female EC efferocytosis seemed to be independent on PTX3 expression. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that serum-starved male and female ECs possess different secretory phenotypes that might take part in the sex-biased response to cellular stress. We identified PTX3 as a crucial player in the male-specific endothelial response to an apoptotic trigger. This novel and sex-related role for secreted proteins, and mainly for PTX3, may open the way to the discovery of still unknown sex-specific mechanisms and pharmacological targets for the prevention and treatment of endothelial dysfunction at the onset of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
Emotional states of different obesity phenotypes: A sex-specific study in a west-Asian population
Authors: Mehrabi Fahimeh , Amiri Parisa , Cheraghi Leila , Kheradmand Ali , Hosseinpanah Farhad , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: December 2020

Background: The present study aimed to investigate the associations of obesity phenotypes with depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among adults in the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS).Methods: Depression, anxiety, and stress levels of participants from the TLGS were examined among different obesity phenotypes in this cross-sectional study. Obesity was defined as body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m², and metabolically unhealthy status based on having metabolic syndrome (MetS) or type 2 diabetes. Four obesity phenotypes were defined: 1) Metabolically Healthy Non-Obese (MHNO), 2) Metabolically Healthy Obese (MHO) 3) Metabolically Unhealthy Non-Obese (MUNO), and 4) Metabolically Unhealthy Obese (MUO). Emotional states of different obesity phenotypes were assessed by the Persian version of depression, anxiety, and stress scale-21 items (DASS-21). Ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to compare sex-specific odds ratios of depression, anxiety, and stress in different obesity phenotypes. Results: The mean age of 2469 men and women was 46.2±15.9 and 45.6±14.7, respectively. In total, women were more likely to experience higher levels of depression (30.5%), anxiety (44.2%), and stress (43.5%) symptoms compared to men. After adjusting for potential confounders, compared to MHNO men, the odds of experiencing higher anxiety levels were significantly greater in metabolically unhealthy men whether they were obese (OR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.25-2.54; P=<0.001) or non-obese (OR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.17-2.21; P= <0.001), and also in MUO women (OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.28-2.34; P=<0.001) compared to MHNO women. Moreover, the odds of experiencing higher stress levels were significantly greater in MUNO men (OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.02-1.90; P=0.04) compared to MHNO men and in MUO women (OR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.07-1.96; P=0.02) compared to MHNO women. No difference in depression levels was observed in either sex. Conclusions: Our results showed that men and women with various obesity phenotypes experienced different anxiety and stress levels. While MUO women and all metabolically unhealthy men experienced more anxiety and stress levels than MHNO individuals, none of the obesity phenotypes were associated with depression. These findings provide insight into recognizing the psychological consequences of different phenotypes of obesity in both sexes and utilizing future health promotion planning.
Multi-trait GWAS using imputed high-density genotypes from whole-genome sequencing identifies genes associated with body traits in Nile tilapia
Authors: Yoshida Grazyella , Yáñez José Manuel
Published: December 2020

Background: Body traits are generally controlled by several genes in vertebrates (i.e. polygenes), which in turn make them difficult to identify through association mapping. Increasing the power of association studies by combining approaches such as genotype imputation and multi-trait analysis improves the ability to detect quantitative trait loci associated with polygenic traits, such as body traits. Results: A multi-trait genome-wide association study (mtGWAS) was performed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) and genes associated with body traits in Nile tilapia (Oreochromos niloticus) using genotypes imputed to whole-genome sequence (WGS). To increase the statistical power of mtGWAS for the detection of genetic associations, summary statistics from single-trait genome-wide association studies (stGWAS) for eight different body traits recorded in 1,309 animals were used. The mtGWAS increased the statistical power from the original sample size from 13% to 44%, depending on the trait analyzed. The better resolution of the WGS data combined with the increased power of the mtGWAS approach, allowed the detection of significant markers not previously found in the stGWAS. Some lead single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were found within important functional candidate genes previously associated with growth-related traits. For instance, we identified SNP within the α1,6-fucosyltransferase (FUT8), solute carrier family 4 member 2 (SLC4A2), A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 9 (ADAMTS9) and heart development protein with EGF like domains 1 (HEG1) genes, which have been associated with average daily gain in sheep, osteopetrosis in cattle, chest size in goats, and growth and meat quality in sheep, respectively. Conclusions: The high-resolution mtGWAS presented, allowed identification of significant SNPs, linked to strong functional candidate genes, associated with body traits in Nile tilapia. These results provide further insights about the genetic variants and genes underlying body trait variation in cichlid fish with high accuracy and strong statistical support.
Irrational use of antibiotics in Iran from the Perspective of Complex Adaptive Systems: redefining the challenge
Authors: Sharif Zahra , Peiravian Farzad , Salamzadeh Jamshid , Mohammadi Nastaran Keshavarz , Jalalimanesh Ammar
Published: December 2020

Background: Irrational use of antibiotics is proving to be major concern to the health systems globally. It results in antibiotics resistance and increases health care costs. In Iran, many years of research, appreciable efforts and policy making have been of little avail and indicators still show suboptimal use of antibiotics, pointing to an urgent need for adopting an alternative approach to understanding the problem and generating new solutions. Applying the Complex Adaptive Systems theory, to explore and research in health systems and their challenges has become popular. Therefore, this study aimed to better understand the complexity of irrational use of antibiotics use in Iran and to propose potential solutions. Method: This research utilized a CAS observatory tool to qualitatively collect and analyse data. Twenty interviews and two Focus Group Discussion were conducted. The data was enriched with policy document reviews to fully understand the system. MAXQDA software was used to organize and analyze the data. Result: We could identify several diverse and heterogeneous, yet highly interdependent agents operating at different levels in the antibiotics use system in Iran. The network structure and its adaptive emergent behavior, information flow, governing rules, feedback and values of the system, and the way they interact were identified. The findings describe antibiotics use as an emergent behavior which is formed by an interplay of many factors and agents over time. Insufficient and ineffective interaction and information flow regarding antibiotics between agents were among key causes of irrational antibiotics use in Iran. Results showed that effective rules to minimize irrational use of antibiotics are missing or can be easily disobeyed. The gaps and weakness of the system which needs redesigning or modification were recognized as well. Conclusion: The study suggests re-engineering the system by implementing several system-level changes including establishing strong, timely, and effective interactions between identified stakeholders, which facilitate information flow and provision of on-time feedback, and create win-win rules in a participatory manner with stakeholders and the distributed control system.
Evapotranspiration Model-based Scheduling Strategy for Baby Pakchoi Irrigation in Greenhouse
Authors: Guo Doudou , Chen Ziyi , Huang Danfeng , Zhang Jingjin
Published: December 2020

Water management is one of the most important operations in greenhouse baby leaf production. However, growers mainly irrigate the plants based on experience, which generally leads to yield loss, uneven quality, and low water-use efficiency. This study evaluated four evapotranspiration (ET) models, such as Radsum, Penman methods, FAO Penman-Monteith, and Priestley-Taylor, for irrigation strategy by predicting the ET level of greenhouse baby pakchoi [Brassica rapa L. ssp. chinensis (L.) Hanelt] under different plant densities (72-, 128-, 200-, and 288-plug tray). Among environmental factors, net radiation and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) had the highest correlation with ET, with R2 of 0.93 and 0.94, respectively. Plant growth period was divided into different stages according to canopy development and substrate surface coverage. The corresponding crop coefficient (Kc) was introduced into ET prediction models. The result shows overestimation of ETc (crop evapotranspiration) by the Radsum and Penman methods. FAO Penman-Monteith and Priestley-Taylor methods performed the best with R2 ≈0.7 for all planting densities. These two methods are recommended for greenhouse irrigation scheduling in baby pakchoi production.
REHABİLİTASYONDA TOPLUMA KATILIMIN İKİ ANAHTARI: ERİŞİLEBİLİRLİK VE EVRENSEL TASARIM
Authors: KINALI Gulsah
Published: December 2020

Topluma Katılımın iki anahtarı erişilebilirlik ve evrensel tasarımdır. Topluma katılım, rehabilitasyon ve tedavi süreçlerinden ayrı düşünülmemesi gereken bir meseledir. İnme, omurilik yaralanması, amyo trofik lateral skleroz, öğrenme güçlükleri, otizm gibi durumlarda evrensel tasarım ve erişilebilirlik aynı zamanda rehabilitasyon etkisi gösterebilir. Bu durumlar için çevresel tasarım, ev düzenlemeleri, dijital erişilebilirlik, günlük yaşama yardımcı cihazlar, okul ve sınıfların evrensel tasarımı önemlidir. Evrensel tasarım ve erişilebilirlik uygulamaları konusunda mimar, iç mimar, mühendis, şehir planlamacısı gibi meslek grupları kadar fizyoterapist ve ergoterapist gibi sağlık profesyonellerinin de bilgi sahibi olması gereklidir.
EDUCAÇÃO E TRABALHO: PERCEPÇÕES DE JOVENS ESTUDANTES DE CURSOS DE ENSINO TÉCNICO INTEGRADOS AO ENSINO MÉDIO
Authors: De Campos Daniela , Lottermann Osmar , Antunes Poliana
Published: December 2020

O presente artigo é resultado de projeto de pesquisa que tinha como principal objetivo compreender a importância do trabalho na formação dos alunos matriculados em cursos dessa modalidade no Campus Farroupilha do Instituto Federal do Rio Grande do Sul. O estudo foi motivado pelo debate sobre a reforma desta etapa da escolarização básica e também por uma percepção dos pesquisadores de que os alunos atribuem peso significativo ao trabalho, mesmo estando em etapa de formação escolar. Além disso, a pesquisa visava entender a relação existente entre a escolha por um curso médio profissionalizante e aquilo que os jovens aspiram para seu futuro profissional, ampliando o conhecimento acerca do alcance da formação de Ensino Médio na vida dos seus egressos, especificamente, em relação à preparação básica para o trabalho e para a cidadania. A pesquisa foi realizada em duas etapas: a primeira, de caráter bibliográfico e documental e a segunda, uma pesquisa de opinião, não identificada, por meio de questionário eletrônico, aplicada com estudantes dos Cursos Técnicos em Informática e Administração Integrados ao Ensino Médio da instituição mencionada. Após a organização e exame das respostas obtidas, verificou-se que os estudantes percebem a formação técnica como uma excelente oportunidade para ingresso no mundo do trabalho. Análises mais apuradas sobre o tema serão realizadas na continuidade da pesquisa que utilizará metodologia de cunho qualitativo.
Adapting to Teaching and Learning During Covid-19: A Case of Islamic School's Initiative of Self-regulated Learning
Authors: Mustajab Mustajab , Baharun Hasan , Fawa’iedah Zakiyah
Published: December 2020

This study aims to analyze self-regulated learning in Islamic education amid the Covid-19 pandemic. This study incorporates a qualitative approach to understand self-regulated learning at Miftahul Ulum Islamic High School, East Java. The data collection techniques consist of teachers' interviews, teaching and learning observation, and documentation. The results showed that implementing self-regulated learning during the Covid 19 pandemic was carried out online through activities, analysis of learning conditions, determining the learning design, applying strategies, and evaluation. Despite challenges, online self-regulated learning facilitates Miftahul Ulum Islamic School students to participate in learning activities during the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Rancang Bangun Sistem Kolaborasi UKM Berdasarkan Manajemen Rantai Pasok untuk Peningkatan Daya Saing UMKM Kota Semarang
Authors: Mustafa Mustafa
Published: December 2020

Peningkatan daya saing UKM menjadi prioritas pengembangan UKM Kota Semarang. Beberapa kendala UKM untuk meningkatkan daya saing diantarnya keterbatasan akses pasar, efisienai produksi dan distribusi serta akses permodalan.

Penelitian ini bertujuan melakukan rancang bangun sistem kolaborasi antar pelaku UKM di Kota Semarang berdasarkan manajemen rantai pasok. Tahapan perancangan sistem meliputi identifikasi kebutuhan, desain, pemograman dan pengujian sistem. Identifikasi kebutuhan dilakukan melalui wawancara dengan stakeholder pengembangan UKM.
Hasil dari penelitian, sudah ada program Pemkot Semarang mendorong kolaborasi dengan membentuk kluster UKM namun tidak berjalan dengan baik. Keterbatasan informasi untuk saling kerjasama menjadi kendala utama para pelaku UKM berkolaborasi. Sistem kolaborasi UKM Kota Semarang berdasarkan manajemen rantai pasok menjadi solusi untuk berkolaborasi antar pelaku UKM. Kolaborasi paling utama dalam sistem yaitu pada pemenuhan bahan baku dan penggunakan moda transportasi pengiriman produk. Keterbukaan pelaku UMKM untuk mengisi data sistem kolaborasi UKM menjadi syarat pokok supaya sistem kolaborasi UKM ini memberikan manfaat maksimal.
Controlled experimental research and model design of double-layer high-frequency vibrating screen machine
Authors: Pang Jinfei , Liu Xiaoman , Cai Yuntao , Du Guojun
Published: December 2020

The double-layer high-frequency vibrating screen machine is widely used in the tobacco industry, and its controllability of vibration has a great influence on the screening quality of cut tobacco. In this paper, we obtain the factors affecting the motion characteristics of the vibrating screen by theoretical derivation and experimental measurement of the motion parameters of the double-layer high-frequency vibrating screen machine, and determine the relationship between various factors and the amplitude of the vibrating screen. We also studied the properties of material motion. Through the overall research, we found that in the controllable process of realizing the high-frequency double-layer vibrating machine, we need to pay attention to the quality of the rotor of the motor, the angular velocity, and the radius of gyration, and also need to consider the number of spring piece and the rigidity of the spring piece. Also, the quality of the material will affect the movement of the screen.
What factors determine the technical performance of community-managed rural water systems in the middle hills of Nepal?
Authors: GC Raj K. , Ranganathan Shyam , Hammett A. L. (Tom) , Hall Ralph P.
Published: December 2020

Gravity-fed water systems are widely used in the rural hills of Nepal. This study identifies the systematic factors that contribute to rural households not obtaining water due to system breakdowns. The study makes use of data from a 2017 to 2018 study of 202 households served by 10 community-based water systems from three localities within the western middle hills of Nepal. A hierarchical regression model is used to capture both household- and system-level variables. The analysis identifies three household-level and three system-level predictors of the duration of water system breakdowns. The significant household-level predictors include (1) a sense of ownership toward the water system, (2) user involvement in decision making during the planning and implementation of the water system, and (3) income earned from water-based productive activities. The significant system-level predictors include (1) distance from the village to the water source, (2) the performance of the water user committee, and (3) the water system operator's level of activity. In addition, the interactions between household- and system-level variables are captured. The empirical relationship between household productive income and the duration of breakdowns is a novel finding. These findings will be valuable to the Nepalese government and other actors working to implement sustainable water systems.
EMISSÕES DE CO2 NO ENTORNO DO AEROPORTO INTERNACIONAL DE SÃO PAULO-GUARULHOS
Authors: Santos Daniel Nery dos , Hori Bruno Yuiti , Oliveira Diego Kauê , Serafim Victor Hugo Cordeiro
Published: December 2020

Os aeroportos são reconhecidamente grandes emissores de  Gases de Efeito Estufa (GEE’s), poluentes e ruídos. Assim, compreender as emissões provenientes  dos aeroportos pode contribuir para a elaboração de ações mitigadoras na temática do aquecimento global, relacionando as emissões antrópicas à intensificação do aquecimento do planeta já que o Dióxido de Carbono (CO₂) é visto como o principal vilão no aumento da temperatura da Terra. A principal motivação deste estudo foi verificar os índices de concentração de CO₂ no entorno do AISP (Aeroporto Internacional de São Paulo). Para tanto, foram realizadas medições de CO₂ em diferentes pontos com o uso de  equipamentos portatéis (medidor de CO₂ e GPS de campo). Os dados coletados foram analisados em ambiente SIG (Sistema de Informação Geográfica). Os resultados demonstraram que as emissões de Dióxido de Carbono no entorno do AISP oscilaram de 436 a 490 ppm/CO₂. Tais emissões estão muito acima dos índices máximos constatados pela ONU no primeiro semestre de 2019, que alcançou uma média global de 409 ppm/CO₂.
Formação docente para o Ensino Secundário e os Cursos da CADES em Campo Grande, Mato Grosso (1956 a 1959)
Authors: Silva Stella Sanches de Oliveira , Silva Marcela Oliveira da
Published: December 2020

Este trabalho tem o objetivo de apurar a configuração docente de uma escola de ensino secundário, Colégio Estadual Campo-grandense, na cidade de Campo Grande, bem como o desenvolvimento dos cursos e aplicação de exames da Campanha de Aperfeiçoamento e Difusão do Ensino Secundário (CADES) que ali ocorreram, observando a formação docente secundarista como objeto. O procedimento investigativo foi subsidiado pelas contribuições de Jörn Rüsen. Para tanto, foram selecionadas fontes documentais (1953 -1959) e dissertações de mestrado entre 2005 e 2013. O processo investigativo apontou características que revelaram tanto a configuração da formação dos professores como também as formas de contratação desses profissionais.
Debora i Jael naprzeciwko Baraka i Sisery: O rolach genderowych w Księdze Sędziów 4,1-24
Authors: Slawik Jakub
Published: December 2020

Opowiadanie o Deborze Sdz 4 zmusza do postawienia pytania o role genderowe jego bohaterek i bohaterów. Choć Debora i Jael przedstawione zostały w tradycyjnej roli żony, to praktycznie cała ich aktywność wykracza poza role przypisywane kobietom, gdyż zajmują „męskie” domeny aktywności społecznej: sądownictwo, prowadzenie bitwy, zgładzenie wroga. Obie postępują nie tylko mądrze, ale i zgodnie z Bożymi, zbawczymi zamiarami. Natomiast męscy bohaterowie zostają ośmieszeni i zhańbieni – umieszczeni w „nie-męskich” rolach jako niesamodzielni, bojaźliwi, domagający się opieki. Ostatecznie, mężczyzna-wódz Sisera zostaje podstępnie zabity ręką kobiety wyposażonej w sprzęty domowe. Opowiadanie to jest zatem genderową krytyką ról przypisywanych płciom, przede wszystkim kobietom.
Recent Advances in the Chemical Synthesis of Marine Acidic Carbohydrates
Authors: Li Xinru , Wang Depeng , Zhang Ping , Yu Guangli , Cai Chao
Published: December 2020

The ocean supplies abundant active compounds, including small organic molecules,
proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates, with diverse biological functions. The high-value
transformation of marine carbohydrates primarily refers to their pharmaceutical, food, and
cosmetic applications. However, it is still a big challenge to obtain these marine carbohydrates
in well-defined structures. Synthesis is a powerful approach to access marine oligosaccharides,
polysaccharide derivatives, and glycomimetics. In this review, we focus on the
chemical synthesis of marine acidic carbohydrates with uronic acid building blocks such as
alginate, and glycosaminoglycans. Regioselective sulfation using a chemical approach is also
highlighted in the synthesis of marine oligosaccharides, as well as the multivalent glycodendrimers
and glycopolymers for achieving specific functions. This review summarizes recent
advances in the synthesis of marine acidic carbohydrates, as well as their preliminary structure activity relationship
(SAR) studies, which establishes a foundation for the development of novel marine carbohydrate-based drugs and
functional reagents.
Phyto-chlorophyllin Prevents Food Additive Induced Genotoxicity and Mitochondrial Dysfunction via Cytochrome c Mediated Pathway in Mice Model
Authors: Samadder Asmita , Dey Sudatta , Sow Priyanka , Das Ruchira , Nandi Sisir , Das Jayeeta , Bhattacharjee Banani , Chakrovorty Arnob , Biswas Maharaj , Guptaroy Pradeepta
Published: December 2020

Objectives:

The issue of food-additive-toxicity causing several health hazards needs to
be therapeutically managed with an immediate effect. Alloxan, a food additive, is used for
whitening and shining flour. It is capable of inducing genotoxicity, diabetes, and associated
mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, to explore a non-toxic, phyto-based compound that can
delay the onset of diabetes and prevent the multitude of damage associated, Chlorophyllin (CHL)
was selected for our study, having been reported to exhibit anti-cancer, anti-diabetes, and antiinflammatory
responses. Therefore, the objective of the present study is to evaluate the protective
role of CHL in controlling genotoxicity, glucose imbalance, and associated cytochrome c mediated
mitochondrial signaling dysfunction against food-additive-induced genotoxicity, diabetic state, and
its complexities in mice model in vivo.

Methods:

Mice were pre-treated with CHL through oral gavage before they were exposed to
alloxan. Diabetic markers, anti-oxidant enzyme profile, chromosomal study, mitochondrial
functioning factors, and expression of proteins were checked against food-additive injected
mice.

Results:

The results revealed that CHL pre-treatment could delay the onset of diabetes,
restrict alloxan-induced elevation of blood glucose, reduce DNA-damage and chromosomal
aberration, optimize enzymatic profile (glucokinase, pyruvate, insulin), and modulates protein
expression (insulin, IRS1, IRS2, GLUT2). Further, CHL-pre-treatment could stabilize
mitochondrial-membrane-potential, intracellular calcium ion, ATP/ADP ratio, ATPase
activity, thereby maintaining optimum functioning of cytochrome-c, bcl2, and caspase3
mitochondrial protein.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the present study reports, for the first time, the screening of phytobased
bioactive CHL for preventing/limiting the extent of food-additive-induced genotoxicity
and mitochondrial dysfunction and serves as an advanced therapeutic tool in the management
of diabetes.
TGF-β1-based CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Therapy Attenuates Radiation-induced
Lung Injury
Authors: Zhen Shuai , Qiang Rong , Lu Jiaojiao , Tuo Xiaoqian , Yang Xiling , Li Xu
Published: December 2020

Background:

Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) is lacking effective therapeutic strategies. In this study, we
conducted TGF-β1-based CRISPR/Cas9 gene therapy for RILI.

Objectives:

Mouse lungs were irradiated with a single-dose
of 20-Gy gamma rays followed by intravenous administration of Ad-CRISPR-TGF-β1 or Ad- CRISPR-Null.

Methods:

Haematoxylin and eosin staining, as well as Masson staining were performed to observe lung morphology. Albumin and
IgM concentrations in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were measured by ELISA. Cytokine levels were measured using ELISA
and/or real-time PCR with terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated nick-end labelling.

Results:

Ad-CRISPR-TGFβ1 improved histopathological and biochemical markers of lung injury, reduced secretion and expression of inflammatory
cytokines, and inhibited progression of fibrosis. Importantly, the SK1/S1P axis—which is known to play a key role via S1P1
in TGF-β1-dependent S1PR pattern remodelling—is responsible for promoting fibrosis.

Conclusion:

Our results indicate
novel insights for RILI therapy.
Effects of Iron Chelation in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Argenziano Maura , Di Paola Alessandra , Tortora Chiara , Di Pinto Daniela , Pota Elvira , Di Martino Martina , Perrotta Silverio , Rossi Francesca , Punzo Francesca
Published: December 2020

Background:

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive bone tumor. Itrepresents the principal cause of cancer-associated
death in children.Considering the recent findings on the role of iron in cancer, iron chelation has been investigated for its
antineoplastic properties in many tumors. Deferasirox is the most used iron chelator compound and in previous studies
showed an anticancer effectinhematologic and solid malignancies. Eltrombopag is a Thrombopoietin receptor used in
thrombocytopenia, that also binds and mobilize iron. It demonstrated an effect in iron overload conditions and also in contrasting cancer cells proliferation.

Objective:

We analyzed the effects of Deferasirox and Eltrombopag in Human Osteosarcoma cells, in the attempt to identify
other therapeutic approaches for this tumor.

Methods:

We cultured and treated withDeferasirox and Eltrombopag, alone and in combination, two human osteosarcoma
cell lines, MG63 and 143B. After 72h exposure, we performed RTqPCR, Western Blotting, Iron Assay and cytofluorimetric
assays to evaluate the effect on viability, apoptosis, cell cycle progression and ROS production.

Results:

The iron chelating properties of the two compounds are confirmed also in Osteosarcoma, but we did not observe
any direct effect on tumor progression.

Discussion:

We tested Deferasirox and Eltrombopag, alone and in combination, in Human Osteosarcoma cells for the first
time and demonstrated that their iron chelating activity does not influence biochemical pathways related to cancer progression and maintenance.

Conclusion:

Although further investigations on possible effects mediated by cells of the tumor microenvironment could be
of great interest, in vitro iron chelation in Osteosarcoma does not impair tumor progression.
Chalcones as Scavengers of HOCl and Inhibitors of Oxidative Burst: Structure-Activity Relationship Studies
Authors: Martins Thaise , Silva Vera L.M. , Silva Artur M.S. , Lima José L.F.C. , Fernandes Eduarda , Ribeiro Daniela
Published: December 2020

Aims:

This study evaluates the ability of chalcones to scavenge hypochlorous acid (HOCl)
and modulate oxidative burst.

Background:

The chemistry of chalcones has long been a matter of interest to the scientific community
due to the phenolic groups often present and to the various replaceable hydrogens that allow the
formation of a broad number of derivatives. Due to this chemical diversity, several biological activities
have been attributed to chalcones, namely anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.

Objective:

Evaluate the ability of a panel of 34 structurally related chalcones to scavenge HOCl
and/or suppress its production through the inhibition of human neutrophils’ oxidative burst, followed
by the establishment of the respective structure-activity relationships.

Methods:

The ability of chalcones to scavenge HOCl was evaluated by fluorimetric detection of the
inhibition of dihydrorhodamine 123 oxidation. The ability of chalcones to inhibit neutrophils’ oxidative
burst was evaluated by chemiluminometric detection of the inhibition of luminol oxidation.

Results:

It was observed that the ability to scavenge HOCl depends on the position and number of
hydroxy groups on both aromatic rings. Chalcone 5b was the most active with an IC50 value of 1.0 ±
0.1 μM. The ability to inhibit neutrophils’ oxidative burst depends on the presence of a 2’-hydroxy
group on A-ring and on other substituents groups, e.g. methoxy, hydroxy, nitro and/or chlorine atom(
s) at C-2, C-3 and/or C-4 on B-ring, as in chalcones 2d, 2f, 2j, 2i, 4b, 2n and 1d, which were the
most actives with IC50 values ranging from 0.61 ± 0.02 μM to 1.7 ± 0.2 μM.

Conclusion:

The studied chalcones showed high activity at a low micromolar range, indicating their
potential as antioxidant agents and to be used as a molecular structural scaffold for the design of new
anti-inflammatory compounds.
Effects of α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Positive Allosteric Modulator on BDNF, NKCC1 and KCC2 Expression in the Hippocampus following Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Allodynia and Hyperalgesia in a Mouse Model of Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Abbas Muzaffar , Alzarea Sami , Papke Roger L. , Rahman Shafiqur
Published: December 2020

Background & Objective:

Hyperalgesia and allodynia are frequent symptoms of inflammatory
pain. Neuronal excitability induced by the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)-tyrosine
receptor kinase B (TrkB) cascade has a role in the modulation of inflammatory pain. The effects
of 3a,4,5,9b-tetrahydro-4-(1-naphthalenyl)-3H-cyclopentan[c]quinoline-8-sulfonamide
(TQS), an α7 nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Positive Allosteric Modulator (nAChR PAM), on
hippocampal BDNF, cation-chloride cotransporters, NKCC1 and KCC2, expression in inflammatory
pain are not known. The objective of the study was to determine the effects of TQS on BDNF,
NKCC1, and KCC2 expression in the hippocampus following lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced allodynia
and hyperalgesia in a mouse model of inflammatory pain.

Methods:

Mice were treated with TQS followed by LPS (1 mg/kg, ip) administration. The effects
of TQS on mRNA and BDNF in the hippocampus were examined using qRT-PCR and Western
blot, respectively. Immunoreactivity of BDNF, NKCC1, and KCC2 in the hippocampus was measured
after LPS administration using immunofluorescence assay. Allodynia and hyperalgesia were
determined using von Frey filaments and hot plate, respectively.

Results:

The LPS (1 mg/kg) upregulates mRNA of BDNF and downregulates mRNA of KCC2 in
the hippocampus and pretreatment of TQS (4 mg/kg) reversed the effects induced by LPS. In addition,
the TQS decreased LPS-induced upregulation of BDNF and p-NKCC1 immunoreactivity in
the dentate gyrus and CA1 region of the hippocampus. BDNF receptor (TrkB) antagonist, ANA12
(0.50 mg/kg), and NKCC1 inhibitor bumetanide (30 mg/kg) reduced LPS-induced allodynia and
hyperalgesia. Blockade of TrkB with ANA12 (0.25 mg/kg) enhanced the effects of TQS (1 mg/kg)
against LPS-induced allodynia and hyperalgesia. Similarly, bumetanide (10 mg/kg) enhanced the
effects of TQS (1 mg/kg) against allodynia and hyperalgesia.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that antinociceptive effects of α7 nAChR PAM are associated
with downregulation of hippocampal BDNF and p-NKCC1 and upregulation of KCC2 in a mouse
model of inflammatory pain.
Long Noncoding RNA OIP5-AS1 Overexpression Promotes Viability and Inhibits High Glucose-Induced Oxidative Stress of Cardiomyocytes by Targeting MicroRNA-34a/SIRT1 Axis in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sun Haiyun , Wang Chong , Zhou Ying , Cheng Xingbo
Published: December 2020

Objective: Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is an important complication of diabetes.
This study was attempted to discover the effects of long noncoding RNA OIP5-AS1 (OIP5-AS1)
on the viability and oxidative stress of cardiomyocyte in DCM.

Methods: The expression of OIP5-AS1 and microRNA-34a (miR-34a) in DCM was detected by
qRT-PCR. In vitro, DCM was simulated by high glucose (HG, 30 mM) treatment in H9c2 cells.
The viability of HG (30 mM)-treated H9c2 cells was examined by MTT assay. The reactive oxygen
species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were used to
evaluate the oxidative stress of HG (30 mM)-treated H9c2 cells. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was
used to confirm the interactions among OIP5-AS1, miR-34a and SIRT1. Western blot was applied
to analyze the protein expression of SIRT1.

Results: The expression of OIP5-AS1 was down-regulated in DCM, but miR-34a was up-regulated.
The functional experiment stated that OIP5-AS1 overexpression increased the viability and
SOD level while decreased the ROS and MDA levels in HG (30 mM)-treated H9c2 cells. The mechanical
experiment confirmed that OIP5-AS1 and SIRT1 were both targeted by miR-34a with the
complementary binding sites at 3′UTR. MiR-34a overexpression inhibited the protein expression
of SIRT1. In the feedback experiments, miR-34a overexpression or SIRT1 inhibition weakened the
promoting effect on viability and mitigated the reduction effect on oxidative stress caused by
OIP5-AS1 overexpression in HG (30 mM)-treated H9c2 cells.

Conclusion: OIP5-AS1 overexpression enhanced viability and attenuated oxidative stress of cardiomyocyte
via regulating miR-34a/SIRT1 axis in DCM, providing a new therapeutic target for
DCM.
Ethanol Extract of Achillea fragrantissima Enhances Angiogenesis through Stimulation of VEGF Production
Authors: Hammad Hana M. , Imraish Amer , Al-Hussaini Maysa , Zihlif Malek , Harb Amani A. , Abu Thiab Tuqa M. , Lafi Zainab , Nassar Zeyad D. , Afifi Fatma U.
Published: December 2020

Objective:

Achillea fragrantissima L. (Asteraceae) is a traditionally used medicinal herb in the rural communities
of Jordan.

Methods:

The present study evaluated the efficacy of the ethanol extract of this species on angiogenesis in both, ex vivo using rat aortic ring assay and in vivo using rat excision wound model.

Results:

In concentrations of 50 and 100 µg/ml, the ethanol extract showed angiogenic stimulatory effect and significantly
increased length of capillary protrusions around aorta rings of about 60% in comparison to those of untreated aorta rings. In
MCF-7 cells, the ethanol extract of A. fragrantissima stimulates the production of VEGF in a dose-dependent manner. 1%
and 5% of ethanol extract of A. fragrantissima containing vaseline based ointment was applied on rat excision wounds for
six days and was found to be effective in wound healing and maturation of the scar. Both preparations resulted in better
wound healing when compared to the untreated control group and vaseline-treated group. This effect was comparable to that
induced by MEBO, the positive control.

Conclusion:

The results indicate that A. fragrantissima has a pro-angiogenic effect, which may act through the VEGF signaling pathway.
Characterization and Antibiotic Susceptibility Profiles of Pathogenic Escherichia Coli Isolated from Diarrhea Samples within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Authors: Mkuhlu Nwabisa Azisa , Chuks Iweriebor Benson , Chikwelu Obi Larry
Published: December 2020

Objectives:

Developing countries like South Africa are still faced with numerous challenges such as poor environmental sanitation, lack of clean drinking water and inadequate hygiene which have contributed largely to diarrheal infections and deaths in children. This study was aimed at investigating the prevalence of pathotypes, antimicrobial resistance and drug resistance determinants among Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolates from diarrhea stool samples within Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Methods:

Fresh diarrheal stool samples were collected from 140 patients attending public health centres within the Municipality and presumptive E. coli isolates were obtained from the stool samples using E. coli chromogenic agar while PCR amplification methods were used to confirm the presumptive isolates as well as delineate them into pathotypes based on the presence of certain virulence genes. In addition, antimicrobial susceptibility and screening of some of the antimicrobial resistant determinants were performed on all the confirmed isolates.

Results:

A total of 394 presumptive E. coli isolates from 140 diarrhea stool samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction amplification, of which 265 were confirmed positive as E. coli. Pathotypes delineation of the positive E. coli isolates validated the presence of ETEC 106 (40%), EAEC 48 (18%), DAEC 37 (14%), and EPEC 31 (11%) while no EIEC pathotype was detected. All E. coli isolates exhibited maximum susceptibility to gentamicin (95%), amikacin (91%), nitrofurantoin (91%), meropenem (90%), chloramphenicol (91%) norfloxacin (84%) and imipenem (83%). However, the isolates showed multidrug resistance to penicillin G, ampicillin, trimethoprim, tetracycline, doxycycline, and erythromycin, with over 71% of the isolates resistant to the drugs. The prevalence and distribution of the five resistance determinants assessed were as follow; sulphonamides; sulII (12%), beta lactams; [ampC (22%); blaTEM, (25%)], and tetracyclines (tetA (35%).

Conclusion:

The results from this study suggest the probable involvement of E. coli pathotypes as an etiologic agent of diarrhea in the study area and revealed high levels of multidrug resistance among the isolates, which could be a major health burden.
Identifikasi Luas Area Ruang Terbuka Hijau (RTH) Kota Banjarbaru Berbasis Sistem Informasi Geografis
Authors:   Universitas Lambung Mangkurat, Annisa Nova , Prasetia Hafiizh ,   Lembaga Ilmu Pengetahuan Indonesia, Riduan Rony ,   Universitas Lambung Mangkurat
Published: December 2020

Kegiatan pembangunan di perkotaan sering mengubah konfigurasi alami lahan menjadi sesuatu yang keras dan kaku. Permasalahan serupa juga terjadi pada wilayah Kota Banjarbaru yang hanya memiliki luas sebesar 371.3 km2 (37,130 hektar). Pada tahun 2010 dilaporkan bahwa Ruang Terbuka Hijau (RTH) Kota Banjarbaru dengan luas 26,577.54 hektar. Luas RTH ini berkurang sangat signifikan pada tahun 2016, yaitu sebesar 2,683.83 hektar. Pengurangan luas RTH ini dimungkinkan adanya pembangunan skala besar yang dilakukan oleh pemerintah Kota Banjarbaru. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengidentifikasi luas RTH di Kota Banjarbaru. Metode yang digunakan untuk mengetahui luas RTH adalah dengan menggunakan Sistem Informasi Geografis (SIG). Data spasial yang digunakan berasal dari citra ikonos, quickbird, foto udara, peta penggunaan lahan dan RTH, peta RTRW Kota Banjarbaru, dan data sekunder dari instansi relevan. Analisis dan pengolahan data dilakukan dengan menggunakan software Quantum GIS chugiak 2.4.0. Berdasarkan hasil analisis SIG, bahwa RTH Kota Banjarbaru memiliki total luasan sebesar 13,584.15 hektar atau sekitar 36.59% dari luasan keseluruhan Kota Banjarbaru.