bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Heavy Metal Content in Lola Snail (Trochus niloticus) in The Karang Island of Central Tapanuli Regency
Authors: Samosir Aisyah Umi Ramadhani , Rahmatsyah Rahmatsyah , Juliani Rita
Published: June 2023

Research on the analysis of heavy metal content in the waters of Karang Island, Central Tapanuli Regency aims to know the metal content in Lola Snail meat, sediment, and Lola Snail shells. The research method begins with taking samples of Lola snails and sediments on Karang Island and preparing the samples. Then, the samples were analyzed by AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrometry) to determine the content of heavy metal elements in the meat of Lola Snail, followed by XRD (X-Ray Diffraction) testing to determine the content of heavy metal elements in sediments, and also testing with EDX (Energy Dispersive X-Ray) to determine the content of heavy metals in the shell. The results of the analysis on the AAS test showed that the order of heavy metal concentrations in Lola snail meat at station I was Zn Cr Cu Cd Pb, while at station II was Zn Cu Cr Cd Pb. The results of the sequence of heavy metal concentrations using XRD in sediments around Karang Island at the station I was Zn Cr Cu Cd Pb, while at station II was Zn Cd Cu Cr Pb. The results of the analysis on the shells of Lola snails using EDX at both stations showed they did not contain heavy metal elements (Pb, Cd, Cu, Cr, and Zn), but only contained O, Ca, Mg, Na, Al, and Si elements.
The Potential of Earthworms (Eudrilus eugeniae) in Vermicompost Production from Vegetable Market of Waste Cabbage and Fruit Skins
Authors: Pradnya Irene Nindita , Imani Nadya Alfa Cahaya , Kusumaningrum Maharani , Ardhiansyah Hanif , Nugraha Devina Dwiyuanita , Syakila Amaliya Fairuz
Published: June 2023

Traditional markets are one of the highest contributors to waste. Traditional markets can produce a lot of waste, one of the wastes with a large amount is organic waste. The alternative that can be done to deal with organic waste and can be converted into a product is to make compost using the vermicompost method. The aim of this study was to find out the length of time for composting in the manufacture of compost, to determine the optimal amount of Eudrilus eugeniae in the composting process, and to find out the optimal distribution of waste in composting. The incubation process for compost was carried out for 8 weeks, with sampling at weeks 4, 6, and 8. Sampling was carried out to analyze the macronutrient content consisting of C-Organic, nitrogen, and potassium. Content analysis was carried out using UV/VIS spectrophotometry for analysis of C-Organic content, Kjeldahl method for nitrogen content analysis, and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) for potassium content analysis. The specifications for compost from organic waste are based on the Indonesian National Standard (SNI 19-7030-2004). This research resulted in C-Organic content of 6.1-8.1%, nitrogen content of 0.32-0.43%, and potassium content of 0.16-0.23%.
Investigations on the feasibility of Romanian pine bark wastes conversion into a value-added sorbent for Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions
Authors: Mihailescu Amalinei Roxana Laura , Miron Anca , Volf Irina , Paduraru Carmen , Tofan Lavinia
Published: June 2023

The batch sorption capability of Romanian pine bark for the removal of Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions from diluted aqueous solutions was investigated as a function of initial pH, contact time, and temperature. The metal sorption sequence is Cu > Zn. The experimental data for Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions retention on the tested bark of Pinus sylvestris L. showed a better compliance with the pseudo–second order kinetic model. The values of the maximum capacity of sorption, determined on the basis of the Langmuir isotherm model, are 14.7 mg g-1 and 13.01mg g-1 (at 200C) for Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions, respectively. The computed thermodynamic parameters indicate the spontaneous and endothermic nature of Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions sorption process by pine bark. The obtained results suggest that Romanian pine bark is a promising material for the development of a low–cost sorption technology for the removal of Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions from aqueous streams.
Spent sulphite liquor for cultivation of an edible Rhizopus sp.
Authors: Ferreira Jorge A. , Lennartsson Patrik R. , Niklasson Claes , Lundin Magnus , Edebo Lars , Taherzadeh Mohammad J.
Published: June 2023

Spent sulphite liquor, the major byproduct from the sulphite pulp production process, was diluted to 50% and used for production of an edible zygomycete Rhizopus sp. The focus was on production, yield, and composition of the fungal biomass composition. The fungus grew well at 20 to 40°C, but 32°C was found to be preferable compared to 20 and 40°C in terms of biomass production and yield (maximum of 0.16 g/g sugars), protein content (0.50-0.60 g/g), alkali-insoluble material (AIM) (ca 0.15 g/g), and glucosamine content (up to 0.30 g/g of AIM). During cultivation in a pilot airlift bioreactor, the yield increased as aeration was raised from 0.15 to 1.0 vvm, indicating a high demand for oxygen. After cultivation at 1.0 vvm for 84 h, high yield and production of biomass (up to 0.34 g/g sugars), protein (0.30-0.50 g/g), lipids (0.02-0.07 g/g), AIM (0.16-0.28 g/g), and glucosamine (0.22-0.32 g/g AIM) were obtained. The fungal biomass produced from spent sulphite liquor is presently being tested as a replacement for fishmeal in feed for fish aquaculture and seems to be a potential source of nutrients and for production of glucosamine.
Peracetic acid pretreatment of alfalfa stem and aspen biomass
Authors: Xu Lei , Tschirner Ulrike
Published: June 2023

Alfalfa stems and ground aspen were exposed to peracetic acid (0.5 to 9% on biomass) at temperatures ranging from 40 to 100° C and reaction times from 1 to 5 hours. Glucose release as a percentage of total cellulose content was determined using subsequent standard enzymatic hydrolysis. Statistical analysis confirmed that aspen showed a strong response to peracetic acid addition rate. 9% peracetic acid removed 14% of the original lignin and increased the rate of glucose release from 23% to 44%. Temperature and reaction time played a less significant role. For alfalfa stems, low levels of peractic acid (0.5%) increased glucose release from 30 to 47%. The addition of larger doses of peracetic acid did not show any significant improvement; this effect appears to be closely related to rate of lignin removal. While peracetic acid effectively removed lignin from aspen, 98% of the original lignin was still present in alfalfa after higher level peracetic acid treatments; the yield loss observed during pretreatment of alfalfa stems originates from other biomass components.
Fundamental study for quantitative analysis of the fluorescent whitening agent (FWA) content of paper and process water
Authors: Lee Ji Young , Youn Hye Jung , Lee Hak Lae
Published: June 2023

Fluorescent whitening agents (FWAs) are the most widely used functional chemicals for the manufacture of printing and writing grades of paper. FWAs are used as internal or external additives for the surface treatment on the size press and coater. In spite of the extensive use of FWAs, no method has been established to analyze the FWA content in process water and paper products. Samples are typically exposed to UV light in order to detect the presence of FWAs. This method is based on the fluorescence exhibited by FWAs under a UV-lamp. The observation of fluorescence with the naked eye is highly subjective. Thus, it is essential to develop a more scientific and objective to the quantitative analysis of FWA optical effects. Water and paper samples containing FWAs were prepared in a laboratory. Quantitative analysis was carried out with a spectrofluorometer, a spectrophotometer, and an image restoration microscope. Using these analytical instruments, fluorescence was observed. Regression equations were obtained from the relationship between the fluorescence intensity and the FWA optical effects of the samples.
Surface sizing application of waterborne epoxy resin on low basis weight paper
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Dai Hongqi , Wan Li , Zhu Zhengjun
Published: June 2023

Reducing basis weight could lead to huge savings of forest resources as well as energy consumption and waste treatment in the papermaking process. However, low basis weight paper generally lacks normal strength and stiffness. The lower the basis weight of the paper, the more important is surface sizing. Highly cross-linked cured epoxy resin, due to its epoxy group and phenyl group, has gained such outstanding mechanical properties and dimensional stability that it could be utilized to enhance paper strength and stiffness through surface sizing when incorporated with oxidized starch. In this study, the impacts of sizing volume, fluid temperature, curing agent, and curing system dosage on sizing were investigated. Our results indicated that a rigid resin layer and interpenetrating polymer network formed on the surface and in the inner layer of the paper, respectively. The formed resin layers strongly support the paper and thus resulted in the improvement of strength and stiffness.
Minimization of ships' passing path in the field of risks
Authors: Mamenko Pavlo
Published: June 2023

The object of research is the processes of automatic optimal passing of ships in the field of risks. ARPA (automatic radar plotting aid) is used on modern ships to track targets and pass from them. ARPA is an automated system that assumes the presence of an operator in the loop of information processing and management. Today, operator interventions in control processes are quite significant and often lead to an increase in the number of accidents and disasters. Recently, specialists have been paying more and more attention to the automation of ship control processes. The most promising direction of automation is the use of automatic control modules in automated systems. In this case, the shipmaster only decides to use the automatic module and observes its operation. An example of an automatic module in an automated system is autosteering, which has been used on ships for over 100 years.
The paper considers the method of automatic optimal passing of ships in the field of risks. The method allows to minimize the path of passing, provided that the given collision risk is not exceeded. The obtained results are explained by the use of an on-board computer for the calculation of controls. In the on-board computer, at each step of the calculation, a field of risks is built. For the position point of the ship in the field of risks, there is a field gradient and a direction of movement of the ship perpendicular to the gradient. The direction of movement of the ship at each point is tangent to the trajectory of passing – an ellipse of equal risk. The ellipse of equal risks is used as a motion program for the formation of controls that ensure the movement of the ship along the ellipse of a given risk during the passing process.
The developed method can be used for the development of automatic modules for managing the passing of ships in the field of risks.
Analysis of the activated sludge composition using artificial neural networks
Authors: Sanginova Olga
Published: June 2023

The object of research is electron microscopic images of activated sludge, which were used to train a convolutional neural network. An important task of the process of biological wastewater treatment is the prompt determination of quantitative and qualitative changes in activated sludge, as well as the assessment of the impact of the identified changes on the efficiency of the treatment. Microscopic examination, which is a traditional tool for controlling the quality of the water-sludge mixture, does not allow to quickly detect the deterioration of the activated sludge, which can lead to its degradation, and in difficult cases – to the death of the sludge. Violation of the microbiological composition of sludge leads to improper formation of flocs, violation of the process of formation of flakes, filamentous or sludge swelling, toxicity, etc. The combination of artificial intelligence methods with existing methods of quality control of activated sludge will increase the reliability and validity of the assessment of the quality of biological treatment.
A proposed methodology for analyzing the state of activated sludge using convolutional neural networks. For the purpose of training the network, images of activated sludge were prepared, which were classified into two categories – «flocs» and «bacteria with microorganisms». There are 4 subcategories in the «flocks» category: size, shape, structure, edge of the floc; in the category «bacteria with microorganisms» there are 2 subcategories: «individual bacteria and microorganisms» and «colonies». Data sets of 250, 500 and 1000 images were created for each category. The task of learning the image processing model and the criteria for evaluating the success of learning are formulated. The task of training the network was to find such a recognition function that, with a given degree of accuracy, approximates the unknown recognition function over the entire domain of its definition. The accuracy of image recognition is chosen as a learning success criterion. The model training results show that the image recognition accuracy reaches 99.98 %, and the training quality is affected by the sample size and training duration. The trained model can be used as a fast and efficient tool to detect problems with activated sludge.
Research on the growth ability of Saccharomyces cerevisiae MN2 in the medium containing different concentrations of NaCl and NH\(_{4}^{+}\) for applying in aquaculture
Authors: Dang Thi Mai Anh , Nguyen Thu Minh , Luong Huong Thi Thu , Nguyen Nguyen Sy , Ho Cuong Tu
Published: June 2023

Salinity is one of the factors affecting the growth and activity of microorganisms. The study of the salinity effect can indicate the range of microorganism applications. This study evaluated the effects of NaCl concentration on growth, amino acid and NH4+ absorption of yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisia MN2. The results showed that, within NaCl concentration from 0 to 3%, the negative effects on the growth of MN2 strain were not observed. The cell density on all culture media reached 108 CFU/ml after 24 hours and maintained until 48 hours.The strain NM2 was able to absorb amino acids at a high rate, which was indicated by the decrease of the amino acid concentration in the culture media after 48 hours (from 20.8 to 37.5%) in comparison with the control. In addition, the strain NM2 was also able to decrease NH4+ concentration in culture media, reducing from 17 to 25.4% in comparison with the control after 48 hours. Strain MN2 is capable of using ammonium as a nitrogen source. When the ammonium concentration fluctuated in the range of 37,327 - 75,433 mg/l, it did not affect the growth of MN2 much. In conclusion, the strain of S. cerevisia MN2 is tolerance to the salinity up to 3%, and suitable for the aquaculture wastewater treatment process.
Local Culture Materials of Indonesia in the Arabic Textbook for Senior High School in the Perspective of Cropper and Klushkorn
Authors: Nashrullah Muhammad , Yusuf Kamal
Published: June 2023

This study examines the content of local wisdom of Indonesian culture in explanatory text material in an Arabic textbook published by the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Curriculum 2013 using the theory of Kroeber and Kluchkorn in the context of sociolinguistic studies for grade XI. The approach uses a research library in this study. The collection of data was using the technique of documentation. The information from the book is classified and then analyzed through content analysis. The findings of this study indicate that the textbook contains different elements of local culture, namely, elements that are descriptive, historical, structural, and genetic. These findings can encourage students to understand philosophical values, promote character education, and provide a blend of Arabic and Indonesian culture with interesting socio-cultural information.
 
تهدف هذه الدراسة في محتوى الحكمة الثقافية المحلية الإندونيسية في مادة النص التوضيحي في الكتب المدرسية العربية لطلاب للصف الحادي عشر في مدرسة الثانوية التي نشرتها وزارة الدين 2013 منهج مع نظرية كروبر وكلوشكورن في إطار دراسات علم اللغة الاجتماعي. تستخدم الطريقة في هذه الدراسة البحث المكتبي. تم إجراء جمع بيانات البحث باستخدام نظرية التوثيق. يتم تصنيف البيانات من الكتاب ثم تحليلها عن طريق تحليل المحتوى. تشير نتائج هذه الدراسة إلى أن هناك عناصر متنوعة للثقافة المحلية واردة في الكتاب المدرسي، وهي العناصر الوصفية والتاريخية والبنيوية والجينية. يمكن أن تحفز هذه النتائج الطلاب على فهم القيم الفلسفية، وتعزيز تعليم الشخصية، وتوفير معلومات اجتماعية وثقافية مثيرة للاهتمام مع مزيج من الثقافة العربية والإندونيسية.
Attempt to assess direct interactions between tumor burden, myeloid-derived suppressor cells and PD-1- and TIM-3-expressing T cells in multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Batorov E. V. , Aristova T. A. , Pronkina N. V. , Denisova V. V. , Sizikova S. A. , Ushakova G. Yu.
Published: June 2023

The avoidance of immune surveillance by malignant plasma cells (PCs) in multiple myeloma (MM) is mediated by different mechanisms, among which an induction of T cell exhaustion and expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) appear to play substantial roles, but it is still a lack of data on possible MDSC-mediated induction of T cell exhaustion. The aim of the present work was to evaluate possible relationship between frequencies of MM PCs, MDSCs and phenotypically exhausted PD-1+ and TIM-3+ T cells in bone marrow (BM) samples and peripheral blood (PB) of MM patients at various disease stages. Peripheral blood (n = 88) and BM samples (n = 56) were obtained from MM patients (newly diagnosed (n = 6), patients in remission (n = 71) and with progressive disease (n = 11)). Frequencies of T cells expressing checkpoint receptors PD-1 and TIM-3, polymorphonuclear MDSCs (PMN-MDSCs, Lin-CD14-HLA-DR- CD33+CD15+/CD66b+), monocyte MDSCs (M-MDSCs, CD14+HLA-DRlow/-), early MDSCs (E-MDSCs, Lin-HLA-DR-CD33+CD15-/CD66b-), and MM PCs (CD45dimCD38+CD138+CD56+CD19-CD117+CD27- CD81-) were assessed with flow cytometry. Circulating and BM-resident PD-1+/TIM-3+T cell subsets, BM E-MDSCs, as soon as MM PCs and serum beta2-microglobulin (B2-M) levels were gradually increased in patients at different stages. Despite that, there were no associations between the markers of tumor load and the studied cell subsets. In patients in remission, BM PMN-MDSCs negatively correlated with CD4+T cells, CD4+PD-1+ and CD8+TIM-3+T cell subsets; there were positive correlations between BM E-MDSCs and CD4+PD-1+TIM-3+ cells and PB M-MDSCs and CD8+PD-1+ and (as a trend) CD8+TIM-3+T cells. We found no associations for the samples of patients at diagnosis and with progression. We can conclude that a possible mutual influence of malignant PCs, MDSCs and PD-1+/TIM-3+T cells is nonlinear, especially during a manifest tumor growth at diagnosis and progression. The detected negative correlations between resident PMN- MDSCs and T cell subsets might be associated with MDSC suppressive function, affecting both predominantly activated PD-1+ cells and exhausted TIM-3+ subsets. The positive correlations between BM E-MDSCs and CD4+PD-1+TIM-3+ cell subset and circulating M-MDSCs and PD-1+ and TIM-3+ CD8+T cells might confirm an ability of MDSCs to induce T cell exhaustion.
Content of mediators of innate immunity in the tears of patients with vascular and neurodegenerative manifestations of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Ruchkin M. P. , Markelova E. V. , Fedyashev G. A.
Published: June 2023

According to the results of recent studies, diabetic retinopathy can be considered not only as a vascular disease, but also as a neurodegenerative process. Study of the composition of the tear fluid is used to assess the state of local immunity in the development of eye diseases. However, studies examining the effect of tear composition in diabetic retinopathy are few. The aim of the study is to determine the levels of IL-1β, IL-10, TGF-β3, MMP-7, TIMP-2, protein S100b, BDNF and NGF in the tear fluid ofpatients with vascular and neurodegenerative manifestations of diabetic retinopathy. The study included 80 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes which were divided into 2 groups: the 1st group included 40 patients who had no clinical signs of diabetic retinopathy on the fundus; the 2nd group included 40 patients with initial signs of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy. All those included in the study were examined on an optical coherent tomograph RTVue-100 (USA); the volume of focal losses of retinal ganglion cells (FLV) was determined. An increase in FLV above the normative base of the device was regarded as an OCT-sign of retinal neurodegeneration. According to the results of OCT, the participants of the first and second groups were additionally divided into 4 subgroups: 1A — patients without vascular changes in the fundus and without OCT signs of retinal neurodegeneration (n = 12); 1B — patients without vascular changes in the fundus and with the presence of OCT signs of retinal neurodegeneration (n = 28); 2A — patients with initial non-proliferative DR and without OCT signs of retinal neurodegeneration (n = 10); and 2B — patients with initial non-proliferative DR and with OCT signs of retinal neurodegeneration (n = 30). The levels of IL-1β, IL-10, TGF-β3, MMP-7, TIMP-2, protein S100 b, BDNF, and NGF in tear fluid were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Levels of IL-1β and IL-10 in tear fluid in all subgroups were comparable to controls throughout the study. TGF-β3 content in the tear fluid of patients in the group with initial signs of non-proliferative DR (group 2) was significantly (p = 0.001) lower compared with control and group 2. However, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between subgroups A and B within groups. The concentration of MMP-7 in the tear fluid in all subgroups was significantly lower than in the control (p < 0.05). However, in the subgroups with OCT signs of retinal neurodegeneration (1B and 2B), the deficiency of this metalloproteinase was more pronounced (p = 0.0001). The levels of the neuropeptides under study NGF, BDNF and S100 B in tear fluid did not differ from controls in all subgroups.
Features of parameters of cellular immune depending on the activity of foci of demyelination in children with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Radygina T. V. , Kuptsova D. G. , Kurbatova O. V. , Petrichuk S. V. , Semikina E. L. , Fisenko A. P. , Abdullaeva L. M. , Bursagova B. I.
Published: June 2023

MS is a common disease of the central nervous system that leads to disability and reduced quality of life. The debut of disease in 3-5% of patients occurs in childhood and has a less favorable course compared to adults. MS is caused by the activation of autoreactive T cells in the breakdown of peripheral tolerance, which is normally controlled by regulatory T cells (Tregs). It is promising to study expression of CD39 and CD73 in Treg and Th17 populations to assess their suppressive activity. Aim is to evaluate content of major and minor lymphocyte populations and expression of CD39 and CD73 in CD4+ lymphocyte population in children with MS. 111 children with MS were examined, 66 with contrast-negative lesions on MRI (Group 1), 45 with contrast-positive lesions (Group 2). The comparison group consisted of 46 healthy children (Group 3). Content of T, B, NK lymphocytes, Treg (CD4+CD25highCD127low), Thact (CD4+CD25highCD127high), Th17 cells (CD3+CD4+CD161+); expression of CD39 and CD73 in Treg, Th17 and Thact was performed by flow cytometry. An increase in content of T helpers, a decrease in NK cells in patients in group 2 was revealed. An increase in number of Thact and Th17 lymphocytes was obtained in patients of both groups with MS. Number of Tregs in group 1 was significantly higher than in group 3. Ratio of cells expressing CD39 and CD73 in MS patients depended on lymphocyte population as well as in the group 3. The highest content of CD39+ cells was observed in Treg population, and the lowest in Thact population. For CD73 expression, on the contrary, the highest expression of CD73 was observed in Thact cells, the lowest in Treg. When comparing groups of patients, it was found that in patients of group 1, number of cells expressing CD39 ectonucleotidase was significantly increased, and number of supTh17 was comparable with group 3. In both groups of MS patients, an increase in CD73 counts in Treg, Thact and Th17 was observed. Thus, informative populations of lymphocytes (CD4+ cells, Treg, CD39+Treg, supTh17) have been identified, which can be used to monitor condition of children with multiple sclerosis.
Immunological factor development of external genital endometriosis
Authors: Levkovich M. A. , Ermolova N. V. , Krukier I. I. , Pogorelova T. N. , Kravchenko L. V.
Published: June 2023

External genital endometriosis (EGE) is one of the common gynecological diseases of women of reproductive age with a relapsing, progressive course that worsens the quality of life of patients due to pain, emotional imbalance, fear of relapse and possible surgical intervention. Currently, endometriosis is recognized as one of the most common diseases associated with infertility. Thus, among fertile women with preserved childbearing function, the disease is generally diagnosed in approximately 6-7%, while among patients suffering from infertility, its frequency can reach 20-48%.

However, the causes that determine reproductive dysfunction in patients with EGE are not well understood. Much attention is currently paid to the role of immunity in the formation of endometriosis. Patients with EGE show changes in both local immunity factors and immunological components of circulating blood.

Purpose of the study: the study of factors of innate and adaptive immunity in patients of reproductive age with external genital endometriosis (EGE).

The study included 71 patients with various stages of external genital endometriosis, the control group included 24 patients without endometriosis. Determination of the population composition of peripheral blood lymphocytes, the level of monocytes expressing TLR, activation markers, was carried out by laser flow cytometry — Immunotex (France), Caltag (USA), FITC (fluorescein isothiocynate) — labeled CD3, CD4, CD8, CD16, CD19, HLA-DR, CD282, CD284 and PE (phycoerythrin) - labeled with CD25, CD69, CD95, CD107a, CD14.

External genital endometriosis is characterized by: at stages I-II of the disease - a violation of the early stages of the innate immune response (an increase in the number of monocytes expressing TLR-4, a violation of the activation and differentiation processes of immunocompetent cells, which is reflected in a decrease in the expression of CD16, CD8, CD16+HLA-DR+, CD16+CD107a+, CD8+CD107a+, at III-IV stages of the disease, there is a decrease in the level of CD16 and activation markers CD69, HLA-DR, CD107a on their surface, which is combined with a decrease in the expression of CD8, CD16, HLADR and CD107a on their surface. CD95+ and CD8+CD95+ were found at various stages of EGE.

The results obtained allow us to understand the features of the functioning of innate and adaptive immunity at various stages of external genital endometriosis, and the studied immunological parameters can be used as diagnostic criteria for the formation of various stages of EGE. These data can serve as a theoretical basis for further identification of markers of EGE progression, as well as the mechanisms underlying immune inflammation.
Identification of Th1-polarized Th17 cells: solving the problem
Authors: Kuklina E. M. , Glebezdina N. S.
Published: June 2023

Helper T cells producing IL-17 (Th17) have high plasticity: restimulation of lymphocytes in an inflammatory environment can induce their transformation into cells with another phenotype, and a shift towards Th1 is the most common. The result of this transformation is the appearance of cells expressing along with the classical markers of Th17 cells key Th1-associated molecules. In its most general form, this population is represented by CD4+CD161+CCR6+CXCR3+IL-17+IFNγ+Т cells, and in the current literature it is most often referred to as Th17.1. Some Th17.1 cells can completely lose the production of IL-17, while maintaining the expression of other Th17-associated molecules; these are the so-called ex-Th17 cells (CD4+CD161+CCR6+CXCR3+IL-17- IFNγ+Т cells). Consequently, the population of Th1-polarized Th17 includes Th17.1, ex-Th17 cells and a number of additional transitional forms. It has unique functional properties – an increased pro-inflammatory potential and the ability to overcome histohematic barriers. It is these cells that are currently assigned a key role in the pathogenesis of many autoimmune diseases, and the process of Th17 redifferentiation into Th1 is considered as a promising therapeutic target. However, the development of this direction is complicated by the weak comparability of data on the size of such a population. The analysis of methods for determining Th1-polarized Th17 in vivo and in vitro, carried out in this work, made it possible to resolve these contradictions and develop optimal approaches to identifying this population. In most studies, especially clinical ones, it is identified by co-expression of key cytokines (IL-17/IFNγ) or chemokine receptors (CCR6/CXCR3), rarely by their combination. In this approach, co-expression of CCR6/ CXCR3 marks the total population of Th1-like Th17, including both Th17.1 and ex-Th17, while co-expression of IL-17/IFNγ cytokines identifies only Th17.1 cells, and the subpopulation of ex-Th17 is misclassified as classic Th1 in this case. Such “underestimation” of the ex-Th17 subpopulation significantly marks down the results, since it is ex-Th17 that accounts for the bulk of Th1-like Th17. And only a simultaneous assessment of the co-expression of cytokines and Th17-associated membrane molecules allows identification Th17.1 and exTh17 cells separately, which is important to consider when interpreting data on the problem and when planning clinical trials.
Laboratory biomarker galectin-3 in the diagnostics of myocardial inflammatory changes in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Gusakova A. M. , Rogovskaya Yu. V. , Archakov E. A.
Published: June 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common cardiac arrhythmias. Numerous data indicate a significant contribution of myocardial inflammatory changes in the development and progression of AF. The search for new laboratory biomarkers to assess the activity of myocardial inflammatory processes, and the study of their diagnostic significance for noninvasive diagnosis in patients with AF is relevant. Therefore, the aim was to study the features of the serum level of the biomarker Gal-3 and to identify its relationship with inflammatory changes in the myocardium in patients with AF. Depending on the results of histological studies, the patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 – with morphologically verified active lymphocytic myocarditis (ALM), group 2 – with lymphocytic infiltration (LI). Analysis of the frequency of detection and severity of the inflammatory process in the myocardium showed that activity of 4-5 scores was detected only in group 1. In 2nd group, activity of the inflammatory process in most patients was 1 score. All patients with LI mild interstitial inflammation were showed. In the ALM group moderate and severe interstitial inflammation was detected. A high number of CD3+ and CD45+ cells were found in 1st group compared to group 2 (p < 0.001).

There were no significant intergroup differences in the serum level of Gal-3. At the same time, in 1st group showed a significant decrease in Gal-3 in 6 months after treatment (p = 0.028). Positive correlations of Gal-3 with the severity of the inflammatory process and endocardial involvement were revealed in patients with ALM. The association of serum Gal-3 levels with CD68+ levels in 1st group was detected (R = 0.48, p = 0.030). In 2nd group, a correlation between the level of Gal-3 in 6 months after ablation with infiltration of CD45+ cells was found (R = 0.69, p = 0.003). Thus, in patients with AF and active lymphocytic myocarditis, significant associations were established between biomarkers of Gal-3 and inflammatory changes in the myocardium. This confirms the important role of Gal-3 as a participant in the inflammatory process.
Post-COVID immunopatology syndrome: characteristics of phenotypical changes in the immune system in post-COVID patients
Authors: Dobrynina M. A. , Ibragimov R. V. , Kritsky I. S. , Verkhovskaya M. D. , Mosunov A. A. , Sarapultsev G. P. , Zurochka A. V. , Zurochka V. A. , Sarapultsev A. P. , Komelkova M. V. , Ryabova L. V. , Praskurnichiy E. A.
Published: June 2023

This study examines the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on immune status. Given the prolonged and profound immune dysregulation observed during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, it remains to be determined whether these changes translate into subsequent immune system dysfunction in recovering individuals. In this sense, the aim of the study was to study the parameters of the immune system in patients who had undergone SARS-CoV-2 infection. 150 patients who underwent SARS-CoV-2 infection were examined according to 96 parameters using flow cytometry. A complete blood count was performed using a Medonic device (Sweden); ELISA method determined the levels of general and specific IgM, IgG, IgA, compliment fragments (JSC Vector-Best, Russia). The activity of the phagocytes was studied according to the generally accepted method. The study found that at least four phenotypes of immune system disorders are detected in patients. The first two phenotypes are related to the impairment of innate immune system factors and are associated with a decrease in the number of CD46+ and NK cells. It has been observed that a decrease in CD46+ persists for a long time in a significant number of recovered patients, highlighted by the impaired expression of this marker in various subpopulations of lymphocytes. The decrease in the level of natural killers was accompanied by a compensatory increase in the number of T lymphocytes, mainly due to T helpers and TNK lymphocytes, and the growth of total memory B cells. Two other identified phenotypes are characterized by damage to acquired immune response factors and are associated with damage to B cells and T cytotoxic cells. The relationship of such disorders with damage to hematopoiesis erythrocyte and platelet sprouts, which contribute to the appearance of hypoxia and possible violation of the blood coagulation system, has been shown. Therefore, the results obtained indicate a long-term pronounced damage to the immune system in postCOVID patients that requires immunocorrection of these disorders.
Peculiarities of post-viral chronic fatigue syndrome associated with mild cognitive decline in patients with atypical chronic active herpesvirus infections
Authors: Khalturina E. O. , Nesterova I. V.
Published: June 2023

According to modern ideas, changes in the functioning of the immune system affect the immune processes in the nervous system, contributing to the development of neuro-immuno-inflammation and thereby indirectly affect the rate of progression of neurodegenerative processes. The aim of our study was to investigate the prevalence of post-viral chronic fatigue syndrome and cognitive impairment (aMCI) among patients with atypical, chronic active herpesvirus infections (ACA-HVI).

Under our supervision were 126 patients of both sexes aged 18 to 60 years with ACA-HVI.

It was established that mono-EBV infection affects 27.7%; mixed EBV infection is observed in 72.3% of patients. When assessing cognitive functioning using CGI, MMSE scales, the incidence of aMCI was found to be 68.3%: with mixed HVI — 87.4%, with mono HVI — 38.8%. During the study, significant limitations were identified in the use of standard scales due to the impossibility of conducting a comprehensive assessment of clinical status parameters and cognitive dysfunctions, as well as correlation of these parameters and assessment of dynamics of the immunocorrection. To achieve this goal the Scale of assessment of the criterion clinical symptoms of patients with ACA-HVI with CFS was used. It was shown that in mixed-HVI, the severity of symptoms exceeded the severity of symptoms of patients with mono-HVI and was 52.7 (43.1-62.2) and 38.0 (31.9-42.8) points, respectively (p > 0.05). Thus, it was found that patients suffering from mixed HVI have more pronounced, severe manifestations of CFS and aMCI, which are 1.5 times higher than similar manifestations in patients with mono-HVI, significantly reducing the quality of life of these patients, worsening their social adaptation.

Prolonged persistence of herpes viruses in immune-compromised people creates conditions for constant antigenic stimulation and immune imbalance with the onset of secondary immunodeficiency or clinical manifestation of existing primary disorders in the immune system, which creates the prerequisites for the development of neuro-immuno-inflammatory changes in nervous system, followed by the formation of clinical manifestations of ME/CFS with different cognitive impairments that may be classified as aMCI.
Results of therapy of chronic urticaria in patients with IgE-dependent and IgE-independent disease profile
Authors: Zhukova N. N. , Mazokha K. S. , Manzhos M. V. , Aseeva E. V.
Published: June 2023

The main mechanism for the occurrence of urticaria is the degranulation of mast cells. It has been proven that, regardless of the activation pathway, clinical manifestations will not differ. According to the literature, up to half of cases of chronic spontaneous urticaria are autoimmune in nature, can be combined with autoimmune thyroid disease, SLE, etc., and have a more severe course.

In therapy, antihistamines are traditionally used. However, some patients do not respond to the treatment, even with a multiple increase in doses. In the treatment of urticaria resistant to traditional antihistamines, the use of Omalizumab is recommended. The purpose of the study: to determine the profile of patients with chronic urticaria, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment with Omalizumab in patients with IgE- dependent and IgE-independent chronic urticaria.

Eight-one patients with chronic urticaria (60 adults, 21 children) were examined. Patients before the start of therapy had a long history of CU: from 1 to 20 years. Patients before the start of therapy were treated with antihistamines, but no control was obtained. An increase in the level of serum IgE was detected in 51.7% of cases in adults and 42% in children. Concomitant sensitization was determined in 48.3% of adults and 76.2% of children. In children, food, epidermal and pollen sensitization was the most common. Pollen and epidermal sensitization were more common in adults. The level of eosinophilia in the group with IgE-dependent was more pronounced than in other group (p = 0.0097). After 6 months, the group with IgE-dependent showed an improvement in the symptom score (UCT) from 3.1 CI (1.5-4.6) to 12.2 CI (10.8-13.7), (p = 0.0001). In other group, symptoms improved from 0.63 CI (0.36-1.6) to 8.1 CI (5-11.2) after 6 months (no control). After 6 months of genetically engineered biological therapy (GIBT), complete control over the symptoms of CU in group 1 was obtained in 66.7% of patients, partial — in 33.7%. In the second group, in 33.3% of cases, positive treatment results could not be achieved. Thus, genetically engineered biological therapy with Omalizumab increases the control over the course of CU. Treatment outcomes are higher in patients with an IgE-dependent disease profile.
Saliva versus plasma cytokines as possible predictors of autism severity
Authors: Filippova Yu. Yu. , Alekseeva A. S. , Devyatova E. V. , Rusakova K. A. , Burmistrova A. L.
Published: June 2023

The autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are now widely accepted as a pervasive, complex, heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders with multiple etiologies, subtypes, and developmental trajectories. There are no available and effective biomarkers for them. Immune dysfunction is seen as an important risk factor contributing to the neurodevelopmental deficit in ASD, and is signified, among other things, by an imbalance of cytokines in the brain and on the periphery. In recent years, saliva has been proposed as a biological material for diagnosing ASD, due to the accessibility and non-invasiveness of the method for its production. However, the question of whether salivary cytokine levels may be used as effective early biomarkers for autism requires further research, including saliva versus plasma/serum comparisons.

Aim: a comparative analysis of the levels of cytokines: IL-6, IFNγ, TNFα, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-10, in saliva and blood plasma to identify possible markers of ASD and their severity in children.

The study included 11 children with typical neurodevelopment (TDC) and 55 children with ASD, among whom 37 children had mild or moderate autism (according to CARS), and 18 children had severe autism. Samples of unstimulated mixed saliva and venous blood were simultaneously collected from all children. Salivary concentrations of cytokines: IL-6, IFNγ, TNFα, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-10 were determined by multiplex Luminex™ analysis. Plasma levels of cytokines were assessed by ELISA. Differences between groups were tested using the Kruskal-Wallis U-test with post-hoc Conover-Inman comparisons, between samples (saliva/ plasma) are using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The correlation between the concentrations of cytokines in plasma and saliva was determined using linear regression by the RMA method.

In all examined groups, the levels of IL-6, IFNγ and IL-10 in saliva were significantly lower, and TNFα, IL-1β and IL-4 were higher than the corresponding levels of the same cytokines in plasma. Regardless of health/ disease status, no significant correlations were found between salivary and plasma cytokine levels in children. IL-1β levels were significantly lower and IL-10 levels were higher in the saliva of both groups of children with ASD compared with TDC. No significant differences in salivary cytokine concentrations were found between children with mild and severe ASD.

Thus, salivary cytokines can be used as markers of ASD in children, but not the severity of the condition. The absence of correlations in the levels of some pro/anti-inflammatory cytokines between saliva and blood plasma may probably indicate a special immunological status of an ecological niche, the oral cavity.
IMPACTS OF EMERGING CONTEXTS IN THE UNIVERSITY CLASS: TENSIONS AND PERSPECTIVES
Authors: NÖRNBERG LUI , RESCHKE MARIA JANINE DALPIAZ , GARCIA JULIANA BITTENCOURT
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT: Thinking about the university in emerging contexts requires considering that, if the university of yore was wrong to give excessive emphasis to the past, today's is driven by the inexorable present and the unpredictable future, forcing it to review its conceptions and pedagogical practices in university class. The scope of the study presented here focused on a qualitative analysis of three reports of practices carried out and presented by participants of the XI Seminário Internacional de Educação Superior (XI SIES) of the South Brazilian Network of Higher Education Investigators, held in 2018 at the Universidade Federal de Pelotas. The selected works obey the selection criterion of presenting, at least, two of the most prominent and related dimensions of innovation, they are: Break with the traditional way of teaching and learning and Reorganization of the theory/practice relationship because we understand that an innovative practice must present at least two of the dimensions proposed by Cunha (2006). The authors who supported this work were mainly Santos (2010), Franco (2012), Didriksson (2008), Cunha (1998, 2006), Morosini (2014), Tardif (2002) and Shulman (1989), guiding the intended analysis, whether in the understanding of emerging contexts, or in the field of pedagogical practices and innovation. The challenges are many, but the study showed the interest and protagonism of teachers and students in the direction of a more significant and emancipatory.
Estado nutricional de vitamina A no grupo materno-infantil
Authors: Saunders Cláudia , Ramalho Rejane Andréa , Leal Maria do Carmo
Published: June 2023

Resumo O presente trabalho revisa o conhecimento disponível na literatura sobre o estado nutricional de vitamina A no grupo maternoinfan til. A vitamina A é um nutriente essencial para a reprodução. Durante a gestação, há diminuição dos níveis séricos de retinol, podendo ocorrer hipovitaminose A materna, com alterações metabólicas, no sistema imunológico e na biodisponibilidade para o feto. Os efeitos da gestação sobre o metabolismo da vitamina A não estão totalmente esclarecidos, sendo os mecanismos propostos baseados em achados exp erimentais. A carência de vitamina A materna também altera a disponib ilidade desta vitamina no leite humano, importante fonte do nutriente nos primeiros meses de vida para lactentes. Considerando que a hipovitaminose A e suas conseqüências são possíveis de ocorrer sem sinais detectáveis na mãe, com repercussão fetal, a detecção precoce de mulheres em risco de carência deve ser uma preocupação dos serviços de saúde, pois trata-se de carência nutricional com grande impacto sobre a saúde do binômio mãe-filho.
Combined superior mesenteric artery syndrome and nutcraker syndrome presenting as acute pancreatitis: a case report
Authors: Castro Bárbara Neto , Ferreira Ana Rita , Graça Susana , Oliveira Manuel
Published: June 2023

Abstract Superior mesenteric artery syndrome designates compression of the third part of the duodenum between the superior mesenteric artery and the aorta. This condition has a low incidence, being more common in thin young women. Nutcracker syndrome is compression of the left renal vein between the superior mesenteric artery and the aorta. Both entities are rare, and their coexistence has been reported in a few cases. Conservative treatment targeting weight gain is sufficient in most cases. An association between the superior mesenteric artery syndrome and acute pancreatitis has rarely been reported. We intend to describe the case of an 18-year-old girl who was admitted to the emergency room with epigastric pain and emesis. Our investigation revealed acute acalculous pancreatitis. During work-up, we discovered superior mesenteric artery syndrome and a compressed left renal vein. The patient is on conservative treatment, and her symptoms have improved.
Maxwell’s equations in Fourier space and coupling between elementary excitations in solids
Authors: Andrade-Neto A.V. , Brandão M.S.
Published: June 2023

Maxwell’s equations are fundamental to the understanding of electromagnetic events, as they describe the totality of experimentally verified electromagnetic phenomena from its boundary conditions and constitutive relations. Although, they are normally presented in the time and space domain, many physical effects and their associated mathematical manipulation are easier to understand when we use Maxwell’s equations in Fourier space. In this work we give a general introduction about Maxwell’s equations in Fourier domain in material media. The simplicity of the obtained equations in comparison with the ones in space-time domain is emphasized, and the link between them and the elementary excitations in solids is presented and explored. In particular, the coupling between various types of quasiparticles in solids is explained.
Mulheres cientistas? A representação das mulheres na ciência nos livros didáticos de história em Portugal
Authors: Balbé Alice , Botelho Claudia , Cabecinhas Rosa
Published: June 2023

Resumo Este artigo discute a representação da contribuição das mulheres na história da ciência nos livros didáticos do ensino secundário português. A análise exaustiva dos livros didáticos de história revelou que o papel das mulheres na ciência é negligenciado, à exceção de Marie Curie, que é citada várias vezes. Continua-se a retratar a ciência silenciando contributos do trabalho e persistência de mulheres cujo papel como (co)-autoras de descobertas científicas foi apagado ou ignorado, persistindo o “efeito Matilda”. As mulheres aparecem nas imagens como auxiliares, corpos ou consumidoras dos benefícios da ciência.