bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengabdian Masyarakat dalam Rangka Meningkatkan Mutu Pemindangan di Sentra Pemindangan Ikan Desa Kusamba, Bali
Authors: Pandit I Gde Suranaya , Permatananda Pande Ayu Naya Kasih
Published: September 2022

Program kemitraan masyarakat (PKM) yang dilaksanakan oleh  Universitas Warmadewa bertujuan untuk meningkatkan mutu proses pemindangan di Desa Kusamba, serta meningkatkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan pemindang lokal, agar produk pindang Desa Kusamba bisa menjangkau pasar yang lebih luas. Metode pengabdian masyarakat yang dilakukan berupa penyuluhan, demonstrasi, serta pelatihan meliputi manajemen bahan baku, proses pengolahan pindang, dan kesehatan pemindang. Evaluasi dilakukan dengan melihat kehadiran peserta pada setiap kegiatan, antusiasme peserta dalam mengikuti kegiatan, serta peningkatan pengetahuan dievaluasi dengan melihat peningkatan skor setelah kegiatan dibandingkan skor sebelum kegiatan.  Kegiatan ini berlangsung setiap hari Sabtu pada bulan Agustus 2020 dan diikuti oleh 5 pemindang yang bekerja pada blok berbeda di Sentra Pemindangan Kusamba. Hasil skor tersebut kemudian dilakukan uji statistik paired t-test dan didapatkan rata-rata skor sebelum kegiatan 6,40 dan rata-rata skor setelah kegiatan 14,40; dengan rerata peningkatan sebesar 8 poin yang memiliki taraf signifikan (nilai P<0,05). Pemantauan pasca kegiatan sangat diperlukan agar kegiatan yang dilakukan dapat diterapkan secara kontinu.
MODIFIKASI PATI UMBUT BATANG KELAPA SAWIT DENGAN HIDROLISIS ASAM (Modification Of Starch Umbut Palm Stems With Acid Hydrolisis)
Authors:   Institut Teknologi Perkebunan Pelalawan Indonesia Indonesia, Yunita Imelda , Prendika Wimpy ,   Institut Teknologi Perkebunan Pelalawan Indonesia Indonesia, Mutia AR Reiza ,   Institut Teknologi Perkebunan Pelalawan Indonesia Indonesia
Published: September 2022

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk memanfaatkan limbah batang kelapa sawit hasil replanting. Umbut batang kelapa sawit sangat potensial untuk dikembangkan karena mengandung karbohidrat dan pati yang dapat dimanfaatkan sebagai bahan pengisi untuk keperluan industri pangan dan non pangan. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengekstrak dan memodifikasi pati dari umbut batang kelapa sawit dengan hidrolisis asam. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan variasi asam optimum untuk menghidrolisis umbut batang kelapa sawit dengan formulasi yaitu tanpa perlakuan asam sebagai kontrol, CH3COOH 1%, HCl 2% dan H2SO4 4%. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan hidrolisis menggunakan CH3COOH 1% menghasilkan nilai kadar air lebih rendah yaitu 8,58%. Sebaliknya hidrolisis menggunakan CH3COOH 1% untuk nilai kadar abu lebih tinggi yaitu 4,44% dibandingkan hidrolisis dengan H2SO4 4% yaitu 3,82%. Analisis kadar amilosa pati yang dihidrolisis menggunakan H2SO4 4% lebih tinggi yaitu 11,97% jika dibandingkan dengan pati termodifikasi yang dihidrolisis menggunakan HCl 2% yaitu 9,11%.
INOVASI MINUMAN TEPACHE BERBAHAN BAKU KULIT NANAS (Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.) TERSUPLEMENTASI PROBIOTIK Lactobacillus casei
Authors:   IAIN Palangka Raya Indonesia, Hujjatusnaini Noor
Published: September 2022

Probiotic drinks are drinks that contain a number of probiotic bacteria in the drink. Probiotic drinks have a good taste, fresh and safe to consume and have a distinctive aroma according to the ingredients used. This research was conducted to determine the effect of the addition of sucrose on the characteristics of a probiotic drink made from pineapple peel extract supplemented with the probiotic Lactobacillus casei. This study used different concentrations of sucrose, the concentrations used were 0%; 40%; 60%; and 120% of the volume of the medium. The results of this study showed that sucrose increased the total lactic acid bacteria and pH, but decreased the score of preference for taste, color, and overall acceptance, but had no effect on the aroma of probiotic drinks from pineapple peel extract. The concentration of lactic acid fermented pineapple peel using Lactobacillus casei has the potential as a probiotic drink because of its ability to inhibit pathogenic bacteria.
CORRELATION OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY WITH TOTAL CHOLESTEROL RATIO TO HIGH-DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN IN HYPERTENSION ELDERLY AT PUSKESMAS GEDANGAN SIDOARJO
Authors:   Faculty of Medicine, Widya Mandala Catholic University, Surabaya Indonesia, Amadea Vincentia Chrestella , Dinata Mulya ,   Faculty of Medicine, Widya Mandala Catholic University, Surabaya Indonesia, Sarvasti Dyana ,   Faculty of Medicine, Widya Mandala Catholic University, Surabaya Indonesia
Published: September 2022

Background: The elderly have a higher risk of developing hypertension. The elderly will experience a decrease in physical activity due to a decrease in stamina and body strength due to aging. This situation can increase the risk of non-communicable diseases such as coronary heart disease (CHD) and affect blood cholesterol levels in the body. Objective: This study aimed to understand the correlation of physical activity intensity with the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL in hypertension elderly at Puskesmas Gedangan Sidoarjo. Methods: This study is an analytic study with the research subjects elderly with hypertension at the Puskesmas Gedangan Sidoarjo with a cross-sectional study design. Using Spearman's correlative test with the Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) program, data analysis was carried out. Results: There is a negative correlation between physical activity and the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL in the elderly with hypertension with p = 0.004 (<0.05) and the correlation value (τ) = -0.424, which indicates a sufficient correlation value. Of 45 respondents, 11 people (24.4%) had low physical activity intensity, 21 people (46.7%) had moderate physical activity intensity, 13 people had (28.9%) heavy physical activity intensity, 29 people (64.4%) had a total cholesterol/HDL ratio ≤ 5, and 16 people (35.6%) had a total cholesterol/HDL ratio >5. Conclusion: There is a negative correlation between physical activity intensity and the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL in the elderly with hypertension at Puskesmas Gedangan Sidoarjo, which means the higher the intensity of physical activity carried out by the hypertensive elderly, the lower the total cholesterol/HDL ratio.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN THIRD TRIMESTER MID-UPPER ARM CIRCUMFERENCE (MUAC) AND ANEMIA IN NEONATUS
Authors:   Faculty of Medicine, Widya Mandala Catholic University Indonesia, Budiono Natasha M , Dewi Dewa Al ,   Department of Public Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, Widya Mandala Catholic University Indonesia, Dewi Sianty ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Widya Mandala Catholic University Indonesia
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Nutritional problems in pregnant women in Indonesia reach 50%, this is still a concern. Based on Basic Health Research (Riskesdas) 2018, 17.5% CED pregnant women in Central Java. Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) is an examination to determine nutritional status of pregnant women. Poor nutritional status can cause anemic neonates. According to research at RSUP Dr. Hasan Sadikin Bandung 2018, prevalence of anemic neonates is 14.5% which is still a problem. Objectives: This study aimed to determine relationship between MUAC in third trimester and incidence of anemic neonates. Methods: This study used a cohort study of pregnant women and neonates at Dr. Oen Solo Baru. The sampling technique was purposive sampling. The samples were 80 respondents with the independent variable being MUAC in third trimester and the dependent variable being anemic neonates. Data were analyzed using Spearman's correlative test. Results: In 40 (50%) respondents with normal MUAC which is 23.5 – 28.5 cm, there were 31 (77.5%) normal haemoglobin (Hb) neonates and 9 (22.5%) anemic neonates. In 40 people (50%) were malnourished which is <23.5 cm, there were 13 (32.5%) normal Hb levels neonates and 27 (67.5%) anemic neonates. Based on statistical tests, there is a relationship between third trimester MUAC and incidence of anemic neonates with p = 0.000 (<0.05) and the correlation coefficient value is 0.452 which indicates a sufficient correlation. Conclusions: The conclusion is there is a relationship between MUAC for pregnant women in third trimester and incidence of anemic neonates.
Effect of Beer Consumption on Methylation and Redox Metabolism
Authors: Broz P , Rajdl D , Racek J , Trefil L , Stehlik P
Published: September 2022

To investigate the influence of beer consumption on levels of homocysteine (HCY), vitamin B6, B12, folic acid (FA), dimethylglycine (DMG), betaine (BET) and other selected markers. One hundred and sixteen male volunteers were enrolled in the study. A one-month period of alcohol abstinence was followed by a one month when participants drank 830 mL of alcoholic beer every day. After that phase, one month of alcohol abstinence followed. At the beginning and after every phase, blood samples were taken and analysed. Ninety-three participants completed the study. After the phase of alcohol consumption, uric acid (UA) (p<0.0001), antioxidative capacity (AOC) (p=0.02), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (0.025), glutathione reductase (GRH) (0.0001), total cholesterol (p<0.0001), HDL-cholesterol (p<0.0001), Apolipoprotein-AI (ApoAI) (p<0.0001), LDL-cholesterol (p<0.039) and Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) (p<0.009) increased, while vitamin B12 (p=0.0001) and fibrinogen (p<0.0001) decreased. Other tested parameters (DMG, BET, vitamin B6 and FA) did not show any significant changes. UA changes and changes in AOC were statistically significantly correlated (r=0.52, p<0.0001). HCY, DMG and BET levels did not show any statistically significant changes after beer consumption, whereas some markers of redox metabolism increased (UA, AOC, SOD and GRH). A statistically significant correlation denotes the dependence of UA and AOC changes in connection with beer consumption.
The Effect of Pesticides on Soil Biogenicity
Authors: Keyserukhskaya F.
Published: September 2022

This article presents the results of a study of the effect of pesticides on the biogenicity of gray-earth soils of the dry subtropics of Azerbaijan. The soils were examined from the location of the pesticide storage base in the Zardob area. It was revealed that in this territory about 12 thousand cubic meters of soil are polluted to a very strong degree and the content of pesticides (including DDT) exceeded the MPC by tens to hundreds of times. Microbiological studies of soil samples showed that, unlike the background clean soil, soil biogenicity was suppressed in all soil samples contaminated with pesticides, and this indicates a negative impact of soil contamination with pesticides on the structure and activity of microbiocenosis, which was confirmed by a high degree of phytotoxicity of these samples. All this indicates a very limited assimilation potential and a low ability of these soils to self-purify from organic pollutants. The results obtained can be used in the zoning of the soil cover of the country according to the rate of self-purification from pesticides, their assimilation capacity.Ключевые слова: почва, пестициды, ассимиляция, фитотоксичность.Keywords: soil, pesticides, assimilation, phytotoxicity.
Separation of the absorption spectrum of Porphyridium purpureum (Bory) Ross. in the red area
Authors: Chernyshev Dmitriy N. , Klochkova Viktoria S. , Lelekov Alexander S.
Published: September 2022

Mathematical decomposition of the absorption spectrum of the culture of the red microalga Porphyridium purpureum (Bory) Ross was carried out in the spectral range from 550 to 750 nm. The culture spectra were recorded on a spectrophotometer with an integrating sphere. Using the literature data, mathematical models of the absorption spectra of the following pigments were compiled: B-phycoerythrin, R-phycocyanin, allophycocyanin and chlorophyll a. The mathematical model of each pigment represented the sum of Gaussian curves. The resulting equations were taken as a basis for modeling the native spectrum. A general model of the absorption spectrum of culture in the region of 550–750 nm has been compiled, consisting of the sum of individual pigments. Using the model obtained in practice, it is possible to determine the concentrations of chlorophyll a, and individual phycobilin pigments directly from the absorption spectrum of the culture.
Peritoneal adhesiolysis for end colostomy takedown (review)
Authors: Sushkov O. I. , Shakhmatov D. G. , Moskalev A. I. , Shunin E. M.
Published: September 2022

Reversal after Hartmann’s procedures is technically challenging and followed by high morbidity rate.

One the main risk factors of complications is need to dissect peritoneal adhesions for optimal access to large bowel, which leads to bowel deserosing, intestine lumen opening and late perforation. Meanwhile, the question remains unresolved: is there a need for total adhesiolysis during operations for end colostomy takedown, or is it more appropriate to minimize its volume? Recent literature data are presented by narrative reviews, single observational and experimental studies. Options for decision making are based on experts’ opinion. There is a strong need to test hypotheses by prospective randomized study.
Quality audit of diagnostic colonoscopy protocols in the colorectal cancer screening program
Authors: Gibert B. K. , Matveev I. A. , Mahnev A. V. , Matveev A. I. , Kozlov M. P. , Povarnin N. N.
Published: September 2022

AIM: to analyze the quality of primary colonoscopy protocols in patients included in the colorectal cancer screening program.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: out of the 86 patients admitted for the removal of colon polyps detected during primary screening of colorectal cancer at medical institutions of various levels, 67 (77.9%) had colonoscopy protocols, which were analyzed in accordance with the study objectives.

RESULTS: the informative value of colonoscopy protocols at the endoscopic stage of colorectal cancer screening in clinic institution of the 3rd level was significantly higher than in the 2nd and 1st levels (5 criteria out of 8).

Comparison of protocols quality of two last medical institutions showed no significant differences. The optimal and acceptable quality of colonoscopy protocols, studied in accordance with the same criteria, was achieved by 3 (37.5%) at clinics of the 3rd level and by 1 (12.5%) at medical institutions of the 2nd and 1st levels.

CONCLUSION: the quality of colonoscopy protocols at clinics of the 3rd level is significantly higher than at hospitals of the 1st and 2nd levels of medical care delivery. The audit of the diagnostic colonoscopy protocols for colorectal cancer screening of the entire cohort showed the loss of information compared to the standard protocol and in most of them there is a low quality of content.
Impact of the method of internal opening closure of anal fistula on outcomes after laser fistula coagulation. Preliminary results of randomized clinical trial
Authors: Zakharyan A. V. , Kostarev I. V. , Blagodarny L. A. , Titov A. Yu. , Mudrov A. A. , Kiselev D. O. , Kozyreva S. B.
Published: September 2022

AIM: to estimate the outcomes after fistula laser coagulation for transsphincteric anal fistulas.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: a prospective randomized single-center study included 42 patients with transsphincteric anal fistulas, 36 (85.7%) of them had a follow-up > 3 months. Nineteen patients were randomized to the group of laser thermocoagulation of the fistula track (diode laser 1560 nm) combined with ligation of intersphincteric fistula track (LC + LIFT). Seventeen patients were randomized to the group of laser thermocoagulation of the fistula combined with closure of internal fistula opening by advancement flap (LC + AF). Mean follow-up period was 6.5 months. Perioperatively (before surgery, 1 and 2 months after surgery), patients underwent ultrasound to assess fistula healing and early detection of recurrence.

RESULTS: no intraoperative and early postoperative complications occurred. In the LC + LIFT group, healing rate was 89,5% (17/19 patients), in the LC + AF group — 64.7% (11/17patients). Endorectal ultrasound confirmed healing or early recurrence. No significant factors affecting recurrence rate were identified in both groups.

CONCLUSION: treatment of transsphincteric anal fistulas by LC + LIFT showed better results compared with LC + AF technique. However, further recruitment of patients into study groups is required with evaluation of late results.
Safety of the total neo-adjuvant therapy in rectal cancer treatment. Preliminary results of the randomized trial
Authors: Sychev S. I. , Chernyshov S. V. , Arzamastseva A. I. , Panina M. V. , Chernykh M. V. , Petukhov E. A. , Rybakov E. G.
Published: September 2022

AIM: assess tolerability and safety of total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) with three consolidation courses of XELOX for patients with rectal carcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: patients with histologically proven rectal carcinoma were randomly assigned in two groups: in the TNT group after the neoadjuvant CRT 50–54 Gy with capecitabine 3 consolidation courses of XELOX were done, in the CTR group — conventional neoadjuvant CRT 50–54 Gy with capecitabine. The RTOG scale was used to assessed radial reactions, and the NCI-CTC v5.0 scale was used to evaluate toxicity. For selected patients with a complete clinical response «watch and wait» approach was used. Postoperative complications were graded according with the Clavien-Dindo scale. The primary endpoint of study was the complete response rate (clinical and pathomorphological). Secondary endpoints of study: frequency and structure of intraoperative and postoperative complications, the rate of grade 3–4 toxicity of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, R0-resection rates. The study was registered on the ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04747951).

RESULTS: between October 2020 and March 2022, 145 patients were enrolled in the randomized study: 72 patients in the TNT group and 73 patients in the CRT group. The full course of neoadjuvant treatment was completed in 90% patients in the TNT group, comparing with 96% in the CRT group (p = 0.65). The total rate of severe adverse effects of radiation therapy was 59% in the TNT group, comparing with 67% in the CRT group (p = 0.48), with 3–4 grade by RTOG scale were observed only in two cases in the CRT group. During chemotherapy severe adverse effects were observed in 54% in the TNT group comparing with 19% in the CRT group (p < 0.001). Grade 3–4 toxicity was 3% in the TNT group comparing with 2% in the CRT group. The rate of intra- and postoperative complications did not differ between two groups.

CONCLUSION: TNT is a safe alternative to conventional CRT.
Laser minimally invasive technologies for pilonidal disease
Authors: Shakhrai S. V. , Cherepenin M. Yu. , Gain M. Yu. , Gorskiy V. A. , Gain Yu. M.
Published: September 2022

AIM: to estimate results of minimally invasive laser procedures for pilonidal disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: the prospective randomized multicenter study included 154 patients with chronic and 76 patients with acute inflammation of pilonidal sinus. Patients were blindly divided into equal groups by simple randomization. Patients of group A underwent laser coagulation and curettage of the pilonidal sinus, in group B — sinus excision, in group C — laser coagulation through a wound, in group D — simple abscess opening. Laser radiation of a diode device with a wavelength of 1.56 microns with a power of 10–15 W was used.

RESULTS: the recurrence rate 1 year after laser coagulation and curettage of the pilonidal sinus was 5.2%. Significant advantages (lower pain level, wound infection rate, treatment duration, time of wound healing) of the sinus excision were revealed (p < 0.05 for all). Ultrasound control a year after procedure showed that the infiltrative changes of tissues in the postoperative area were significantly less common, as well as scar deformities of the intergluteal area (p < 0.0001; p = 0.006).No significant differences in wound healing time were revealed between groups C and D (p = 0.8). In group D, a secondary fistula was detected in 10.5% after a month of follow-up and required a sinus excision later. The disease remission rate was lowest in group C after 1 year of follow-up (p = 0.01). Morphometry and ultrasound after a year showed infiltration without fluid structures and inflammation in surgical site in group C in 7.9% of patients, in group D — in 23.7%.

СONCLUSION: the laser coagulation with curettage and laser coagulation through a wound has a number of advantages over the traditional procedures. These methods can become alternative options for chronic and acute pilonidal disease in regimen of “one-day surgery”.
Hypersensitivity and in-stent restenosis in coronary stent materials
Authors: Hu Wansong , Jiang Jun
Published: September 2022

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a type of cardiovascular disease with the highest mortality rate worldwide. Percutaneous transluminal coronary intervention (PCI) is the most effective method for treating CHD. However, in-stent restenosis (ISR), a long-term complication after PCI, affects the prognosis of patients with CHD. Previous studies have suggested that hypersensitivity reactions induced by metallic components may be one of the reasons of this complication. With the emergence of first- and second-generation drug-eluting stents (DES), the efficacy and prognosis of patients with CHD have greatly improved, and the incidence of ISR has gradually decreased to less than 10%. Nevertheless, DES components have been reported to induce hypersensitivity reactions, either individually or synergistically, and cause local inflammation and neointima formation, leading to long-term adverse cardiovascular events. In this article, we described the relationship between ISR and hypersensitivity from different perspectives, including its possible pathogenesis, and discussed their potential influencing factors and clinical significance.
Effects of novel cellulase (Cel 906) and probiotic yeast fermentation on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of vine tea (Ampelopsis grossedentata)
Authors: Xu Jin , Hussain Mubasher , Su Wenfeng , Yao Qian , Yang Guandong , Zhong Yu , Zhou Lin , Huang Xiaoting , Wang Zhixiang , Gu Quliang , Ren Yifei , Li He
Published: September 2022

Vine tea (Ampelopsis grossedentata) is a plant resource with good nutritional and medicinal, and is widely consumed in China. This study aimed to develop a functional vine tea fermentation broth using microbial fermentation and cellulase degradation. First, the most suitable probiotics for vine tea fermentation were screened, and the fermentation conditions were optimized. Then, a new cellulase (Cel 906, MW076177) was added to evaluate the changes in the contents of effective substances and to study its efficacy. The results show that saccharomyces cerevisiae Y-401 was identified as the best strain, the optimal fermentation conditions were a time of 94.60 h, feeding concentration of 115.21 g/L, and temperature of about 34.97°C. The vine tea fermentation broth has a strong inhibitory ability on 2,2′-azinobis3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) (99.73%), peroxyl (53.15%), superoxide anion radicals (84.13%), and 1,1-Diphenyl-2-trinitrophenylhydrazine (DPPH) (92.48%). It has a decent inhibitory impact on the cell viability, tyrosinase activity (32.25%), and melanin synthesis (63.52%) of B16-F10 melanoma cells induced by α-MSH. Inflammatory cell recruitment was reduced in a zebrafish inflammation model. Therefore, this vine tea fermented broth has strong antioxidant, anti-melanoma, and anti-inflammatory effects, and has healthcare potential as a probiotic tea.
Efficient and reversible Cas13d-mediated knockdown with an all-in-one lentivirus-vector
Authors: Lv Suli , Zhao Xuefeng , Ma Xianyun , Zou Qingli , Li Neng , Yan Yingying , Sun Lidong , Song Tanjing
Published: September 2022

Type VI CRISPR effector Cas13d from Ruminococcus flavefaciens XPD3002 (RfxCas13d) is an RNA-guided RNA endonuclease. RfxCas13d has been harnessed to knockdown gene expression with high specificity in various systems including mammalian cells. While inducible knockdown is advantageous over constitutive knockdown in many scenarios, current inducible systems of RfxCas13d express CRISPR RNA and Cas13d separately. Such systems could be cumbersome to handle and may hamper the application of RfxCas13d in some scenarios. Here, we design an all-in-one Cas13d lentivirus vector which renders efficient and inducible knockdown in a doxycycline dosage-dependent manner. Furthermore, we find that Cas13d has a short half-life in mammalian cells. As a result, knockdown can be promptly reversed after doxycycline withdrawal. This vector is particularly useful for applications involving indispensable genes and/or in cells hard to transduce.
Is there a contextual interference effect for sub-elite alpine ski racers learning complex skills?
Authors: Magelssen Christian , Haugen Per , Reid Robert , Gilgien Matthias
Published: September 2022

Scientific understanding of the contextual interference effect stems mainly from studies on unskilled participants learning artificial laboratory tasks. Although one goal of such studies is to extrapolate the findings to include real-world learning situations such as sports, this generalization is not straightforward. This study tested the contextual interference effect with 66 sub-elite, competitive alpine ski racers who learned a new movement pattern−the pumping technique to increase velocity in slalom−by practicing this skill in three different slalom courses over a 3-day training period. The interleaved group practiced all three courses each day in a semi-random order. In contrast, the blocked group practiced only one course each day, which was randomized and counterbalanced across the participants in this group. A retention test was delivered 72 h after the last practice day. In contrast to our hypothesis, the interleaved group did not display significantly better retention than the blocked group. The interleaved group’s performance was also not significantly attenuated during skill learning compared to the blocked group. Our results underscore the importance of conducting motor learning experiments in natural environments to understand the conditions that facilitate learning beyond the laboratory environment.
Single-molecule fluorescence imaging techniques reveal molecular mechanisms underlying deoxyribonucleic acid damage repair
Authors: Kang Yujin , An Soyeong , Min Duyoung , Lee Ja Yil
Published: September 2022

Advances in single-molecule techniques have uncovered numerous biological secrets that cannot be disclosed by traditional methods. Among a variety of single-molecule methods, single-molecule fluorescence imaging techniques enable real-time visualization of biomolecular interactions and have allowed the accumulation of convincing evidence. These techniques have been broadly utilized for studying DNA metabolic events such as replication, transcription, and DNA repair, which are fundamental biological reactions. In particular, DNA repair has received much attention because it maintains genomic integrity and is associated with diverse human diseases. In this review, we introduce representative single-molecule fluorescence imaging techniques and survey how each technique has been employed for investigating the detailed mechanisms underlying DNA repair pathways. In addition, we briefly show how live-cell imaging at the single-molecule level contributes to understanding DNA repair processes inside cells.
Sonicated waves procedure effect on stabilizing expansive soil by nano-clay: Treat with cause
Authors: Sharo Abdulla A. , Khasawneh Mohammad A. , Bani Baker Mousa , Al Tarawneh Dana M.
Published: September 2022

The use of hydrophilic bentonite nanoclay to improve the geotechnical properties of expansive soils was studied. Sonic waves and manual mixing for two expansive soils (taken from two different locations in Jordan) were studied; thereafter, a comparison between the results obtained from both methods was carried out. Different percentages of nanoclay were added to the two soils: 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.8, 1, 1.5, and 2.5% by dry weight of soil. Their impacts on compaction, unconfined compression strength (UCS), and free swell index (FSI) were investigated. For both methods of mixing, adding nanoclay to the soils resulted in a significant enhancement in strength and a reduction in swell properties of the soils. The UCS results of sonicated samples treated with 0.5% of nanoclay addition showed an increase of 27%–57% and a reduction in FSI by 41%–46.5%. Nevertheless, the UCS of non-sonicated samples treated with 1% of nanoclay showed an increase of 19.3–28.5% and a reduction in FSI by 37.3–44.3%.
Of mice and men: Pinpointing species differences in adipose tissue biology
Authors: Börgeson Emma , Boucher Jeremie , Hagberg Carolina E.
Published: September 2022

The prevalence of obesity and metabolic diseases continues to rise, which has led to an increased interest in studying adipose tissue to elucidate underlying disease mechanisms. The use of genetic mouse models has been critical for understanding the role of specific genes for adipose tissue function and the tissue’s impact on other organs. However, mouse adipose tissue displays key differences to human fat, which has led, in some cases, to the emergence of some confounding concepts in the adipose field. Such differences include the depot-specific characteristics of visceral and subcutaneous fat, and divergences in thermogenic fat phenotype between the species. Adipose tissue characteristics may therefore not always be directly compared between species, which is important to consider when setting up new studies or interpreting results. This mini review outlines our current knowledge about the cell biological differences between human and mouse adipocytes and fat depots, highlighting some examples where inadequate knowledge of species-specific differences can lead to confounding results, and presenting plausible anatomic explanations that may underlie the differences. The article thus provides critical insights and guidance for researchers working primarily with only human or mouse fat tissue, and may contribute to new ideas or concepts in the important and evolving field of adipose biology.
Live imaging of echinoderm embryos to illuminate evo-devo
Authors: Barone Vanessa , Lyons Deirdre C.
Published: September 2022

Echinoderm embryos have been model systems for cell and developmental biology for over 150 years, in good part because of their optical clarity. Discoveries that shaped our understanding of fertilization, cell division and cell differentiation were only possible because of the transparency of sea urchin eggs and embryos, which allowed direct observations of intracellular structures. More recently, live imaging of sea urchin embryos, coupled with fluorescence microscopy, has proven pivotal to uncovering mechanisms of epithelial to mesenchymal transition, cell migration and gastrulation. However, live imaging has mainly been performed on sea urchin embryos, while echinoderms include numerous experimentally tractable species that present interesting variation in key aspects of morphogenesis, including differences in embryo compaction and mechanisms of blastula formation. The study of such variation would allow us not only to understand how tissues are formed in echinoderms, but also to identify which changes in cell shape, cell-matrix and cell-cell contact formation are more likely to result in evolution of new embryonic shapes. Here we argue that adapting live imaging techniques to more echinoderm species will be fundamental to exploit such an evolutionary approach to the study of morphogenesis, as it will allow measuring differences in dynamic cellular behaviors - such as changes in cell shape and cell adhesion - between species. We briefly review existing methods for live imaging of echinoderm embryos and describe in detail how we adapted those methods to allow long-term live imaging of several species, namely the sea urchin Lytechinus pictus and the sea stars Patiria miniata and Patiriella regularis. We outline procedures to successfully label, mount and image early embryos for 10–16 h, from cleavage stages to early blastula. We show that data obtained with these methods allows 3D segmentation and tracking of individual cells over time, the first step to analyze how cell shape and cell contact differ among species. The methods presented here can be easily adopted by most cell and developmental biology laboratories and adapted to successfully image early embryos of additional species, therefore broadening our understanding of the evolution of morphogenesis.
Evaluating mitophagy in embryonic stem cells by using fluorescence-based imaging
Authors: Liu Kun , Li Xing , Li Zheng , Cao Jiani , Li Xiaoyan , Xu Youqing , Liu Lei , Zhao Tongbiao
Published: September 2022

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs), which are characterized by the capacity for self-renewal and pluripotency, hold great promise for regenerative medicine. Increasing evidence points to the essential role of mitophagy in pluripotency regulation. Our recent work showed that PINK1/OPTN take part in guarding ESC mitochondrial homeostasis and pluripotency. Evaluating mitophagy in ESCs is important for exploring the relationships between mitochondrial homeostasis and pluripotency. ESCs are smaller in size than adult somatic cells and the mitophagosomes in ESCs are difficult to observe. Many methods have been employed—for example, detecting colocalization of LC3-II and mitochondria—to evaluate mitophagy in ESCs. However, it is important to define an objective way to detect mitophagy in ESCs. Here, we evaluated two commonly used fluorescence-based imaging methods to detect mitophagy in ESCs. By using autophagy- or mitophagy-defective ESC lines, we showed that the mito-Keima (mt-Keima) system is a suitable and effective way for detecting and quantifying mitophagy in ESCs. Our study provides evidence that mt-Keima is an effective tool to study mitophagy function in ESCs.
New strategies for neuro protection in glaucoma
Authors: Xuejiao Yang , Junwei Yan
Published: September 2022

Glaucoma is a progressive, irreversible loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and axons that results in characteristic optic atrophy and corresponding progressive visual field defect. The exact mechanisms underlying glaucomatous neuron loss are not clear. The main risk factor for glaucoma onset and development is high intraocular pressure (IOP), however traditional IOP-lowering therapies are often not sufficient to prevent degeneration of RGCs and the vision loss may progress, indicating the need for complementary neuroprotective therapy. This review summarizes the progress for neuro protection in glaucoma in recent 5 years, including modulation of neuroinflammation, gene and cell therapy, dietary supplementation, and sustained-release system.
Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of 9-aryl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole derivatives as potential tubulin polymerization inhibitors
Authors: Shi Lingyu , Yang Shanbo , Chang Jing , Zhang Yujing , Liu Wenjing , Zeng Jun , Meng Jingsen , Zhang Renshuai , Wang Chao , Xing Dongming
Published: September 2022

A series of new 9-aryl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole derivatives as tubulin polymerization inhibitors were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for antitumor activity. All newly prepared compounds were tested for their anti-proliferative activity in vitro against three different cancer cells (SGC-7901, HeLa, and MCF-7). Among the designed compounds, compound 7k displayed the strongest anti-proliferative activity against HeLa cells with IC50 values of 8.7 ± 1.3 μM. In addition, 7k could inhibit the polymerization of tubulin and disrupt the microtubule network of cells. Further mechanism studies revealed that 7k arrested cell cycle at the G2/M phase and induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Molecular docking analysis confirmed that 7k may bind to colchicine binding sites on microtubules. Our study aims to provide a new strategy for the development of antitumor drugs targeting tubulin.
G-quadruplexes formation within the promoter of TEAD4 oncogene and their interaction with Vimentin
Authors: Cozzaglio Marta , Ceschi Silvia , Groaz Elisabetta , Sturlese Mattia , Sissi Claudia
Published: September 2022

G-quadruplexes (G4s) are nucleic acid secondary structures detected within human chromosomes, that cluster at gene promoters and enhancers. This suggests that G4s may play specific roles in the regulation of gene expression. Within a distinct subgroup of G-rich domains, the formation of two or more adjacent G4 units (G4-repeats) is feasible. Recently it was shown that Vimentin, a protein highly expressed within mesenchymal cells, selectively recognizes these arrangements. Putative G4-repeats have been searched within the human gene proximal promoters by the bioinformatics tool QPARSE and they resulted to be enriched at genes related to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). This suggested that Vimentin binding at these sites might be relevant for the maintenance of the mesenchymal phenotype. Among all the identified sequences, in the present study we selected the one located within the promoter of the TEAD4 oncogene. TEAD4 codifies for a transcriptional enhancer factor, TEAD4, that actively promotes EMT, supporting, cell proliferation and migration. Moreover, in colorectal cancer cells TEAD4 directly enhances the expression of Vimentin. Thus, the possible interaction of Vimentin with TEAD4 promoter could highlight a positive feedback loop between these two factors, associated to important tumor metastasis related events. Here, we exploited spectroscopic and electrophoretic measurements under different conditions to address the folding behavior of the selected sequence. This allowed us to validate the folding of TEAD4 promoter into a G4-repeat able to interact with Vimentin.
Insights into AIE materials: A focus on biomedical applications of fluorescence
Authors: Ma Junchi , Gu Yanru , Ma Depeng , Lu Weizhao , Qiu Jianfeng
Published: September 2022

Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) molecules have garnered considerable interest since its first appearance in 2001. Recent studies on AIE materials in biological and medical areas have demonstrated that they show their promise as biomaterials for bioimaging and other biomedical applications. Benefiting from significant advantages of their high sensitivity, excellent photostability, and good biocompatibility, AIE-based materials provide dramatically improved analytical capacities for in vivo detection and demonstration of vital biological processes. Herein, we introduce the development history of AIE molecules and recent progress in areas of biotesting and bioimaging. Additionally, this review also offers an outlook for the potential applications of versatile AIE materials for tracing and treating pathological tissues, including overcoming challenges and feasible solutions.
Failing upwards: Genetics-based strategies to improve antibiotic discovery and efficacy in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Tomasi Francesca G. , Rubin Eric J.
Published: September 2022

Therapeutic advances in the 20th century significantly reduced tuberculosis (TB) mortality. Nonetheless, TB still poses a massive global health challenge with significant annual morbidity and mortality that has been amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike most common bacterial infectious diseases, successful TB treatment requires months-long regimens, which complicates the ability to treat all cases quickly and effectively. Improving TB chemotherapy by reducing treatment duration and optimizing combinations of drugs is an important step to reducing relapse. In this review, we outline the limitations of current multidrug regimens against TB and have reviewed the genetic tools available to improve the identification of drug targets. The rational design of regimens that sterilize diverse phenotypic subpopulations will maximize bacterial killing while minimizing both treatment duration and infection relapse. Importantly, the TB field currently has all the necessary genetic and analytical tools to screen for and prioritize drug targets in vitro based on the vulnerability of essential and non-essential genes in the Mtb genome and to translate these findings in in vivo models. Combining genetic methods with chemical screens offers a formidable strategy to redefine the preclinical design of TB therapy by identifying powerful new targets altogether, as well as targets that lend new efficacy to existing drugs.
The role of financial inclusion and FinTech in addressing climate-related challenges in the industry 4.0: Lessons for sustainable development goals
Authors: Mhlanga David
Published: September 2022

Individuals and enterprises have an increasing need for financial resources, which has led to the development of numerous financial instruments such as microfinance, insurance, and cash transfers, among other things. The number of development partners advocating for the use of these technologies to address disaster risks and climate change-related concerns is also increasing. With the rise in risk reduction needs and challenges associated with climate change, it's more important than ever to assess the effectiveness of various financial instruments (financial inclusion) in solving climate-related issues. The study used secondary data studied through document analysis to answer the question, what role does financial technology play in addressing the challenges or hazards associated with climate change in the Fourth Industrial Revolution? The results indicated that financial inclusion through FinTech could aid in the resilience of households, individuals, and companies in the case of a rapid climate event or the gradual effects of changing rainfall patterns, rising sea levels, or salter water incursion. Insurance, savings, credit, money transfers, and new digital distribution channels can all help victims of climate change and those in charge of dealing with the new environmental realities. As a result, the study advises that financial inclusion through FinTech be promoted as one of the channels that can aid in managing the risks of climate-related concerns and achieving sustainable development goals through development patterns, governments, and civil society.
T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 is highly expressed in patients with acute decompensated heart failure and predicts mid-term prognosis
Authors: Meng Xin , Xia Guofang , Zhang Lili , Xu Congfeng , Chen Zhong
Published: September 2022

Background and aims

T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (Tim-3) is mainly expressed by immune cells and plays an immunomodulatory role in cardiovascular disease. However, the prognostic value of Tim-3 in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the expression profile of Tim-3 on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in patients with ADHF and its impact on their prognosis.

Methods

In this prospective study, 84 patients who were hospitalized with ADHF and 83 patients without heart failure were enrolled. Main clinical data were collected during patient visits. The Tim-3 expression on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in peripheral blood samples was assayed by flow cytometry. Long-term prognosis of the patients with ADHF was evaluated by major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) over a 12-month follow-up period.

Results

We found that the Tim-3 expression on CD4+ T cells [2.08% (1.15–2.67%) vs. 0.88% (0.56–1.39%), p < 0.001] and CD8+ T cells [3.81% (2.24–6.03%) vs. 1.36% (0.76–3.00%), p < 0.001] in ADHF group were significantly increased vs. the non-ADHF group. Logistic analysis revealed that high levels of Tim-3 expressed on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were independent risk factors of ADHF (OR: 2.76; 95% CI: 1.34–5.65, p = 0.006; OR: 2.58; 95% CI: 1.26–5.31, p = 0.010, respectively). ROC curve analysis showed that the high level of Tim-3 on CD4+ or CD8+ T cells as a biomarker has predictive performance for ADHF (AUC: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.68–0.83; AUC: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.71–0.85, respectively). During a median follow-up of 12 months, the Cox regression analysis revealed that higher Tim-3 on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were strongly associated with increased risks of MACCE within 12 months after ADHF (HR: 2.613; 95% CI: 1.11–6.13, p = 0.027; HR: 2.762, 95% CI: 1.15–6.63, p = 0.023; respectively).

Conclusion

Our research indicated that the expression level of Tim-3 on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, elevated in patients with ADHF, was an independent predictor of MACCE within 12 months after ADHF. It suggests a potential immunoregulatory role of Tim-3 signaling system in the mechanism of ADHF.
Muscarinic receptor regulation of chronic pain-induced atrial fibrillation
Authors: Gong Chao , Ding Yu , Liang Feng , Wu Shuang , Tang Xiruo , Ding Hongzhang , Huang Wenjing , Yu Xiaotong , Zhou Likun , Li Jun , Liu Shaowen
Published: September 2022

Atrial fibrillation (AF), one of the most common arrhythmias, is associated with chronic emotional disorder. Chronic pain represents a psychological instability condition related to cardiovascular diseases, but the mechanistic linkage connecting chronic pain to AF occurrence remains unknown. Wild-type C57BL/6J male mice were randomly divided into sham and chronic pain groups. Autonomic nerve remodeling was reflected by the increased atrial parasympathetic tension and muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M2 expression. AF susceptibility was assessed through transesophageal burst stimulation in combination with electrocardiogram recording and investigating AERP in Langendorff perfused hearts. Our results demonstrated the elevated protein expression of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M2 in the atria of mice subjected to chronic pain stress. Moreover, chronic pain induced the increase of atrial PR interval, and atrial effective refractory periods as compared to the sham group, underlying the enhanced susceptibility of AF. Thus, autonomic cholinergic nerve may mediate mice AF in the setting of chronic pain.
Simulation of the spatial pattern of scenic spots combining optimal scale and deep learning
Authors: Zhu Shengdong , Bai Ziyi , Gan Zhuoting , Jin Shenglang , Zhang Chong , Wang Junxiong
Published: September 2022

With the development of deep learning and big data technology, artificial neural network methods are used to simulate new areas with high potential to develop tourist attractions. They break through the limitation of the lifespan development of domestic tourist attractions and improve the credibility of results caused by the sample size and scale effect. This study applied the data for 906 scenic spots in Northwest China by a geographic detector model and deep learning technology to explore the dominant factors explaining their spatial distribution under the optimal research spatial scale and to simulate new areas with a high potential for development as tourist attractions. The main conclusions of this study were as follows. 1) The results were more reliable for Northwest China under a research spatial scale of 150 km × 150 km. 2) The leading factors affecting the development of tourist attractions in Northwest China were normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), distance from the city, population, and transportation accessibility. 3) The results identified areas that are highly suitable for tourist attractions, showed regional maturity in either the natural environment or social development. This study can act as a reference for further exploration and the application of artificial intelligence technology in scenic spots.