bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INFERR-Iron Infusion in Haemodialysis Study: INtravenous Iron Polymaltose for First Nations Patients With High FERRitin Levels On Haemodialysis A Protocol for a Prospective Open-Label Blinded Endpoint Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: William Majoni Sandawana , Nelson Jane , Germaine Darren , Hoppo Libby , Long Stephanie , Divakaran Shilpa , Turner Brandon , Graham Jessica , Cherian Sajiv , Pawar Basant , Rathnayake Geetha , Heron Bianca , Maple-Brown Louise , Batey Robert , Morris Peter , Davies Jane , Fernandes David Kiran , Sundaram Madhivanan , Abeyaratne Asanga , Wong Yun Hui Sheryl , Lawton Paul D , Taylor Sean , Barzi Federica , Cass Alan
Published: October 2021

BackgroundThe effectiveness of erythropoiesis stimulating agents, which are the main stay of managing anaemia of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is largely dependent on adequate body iron stores. The iron stores are determined by the levels of serum ferritin concentration and transferrin saturation. These two surrogate markers of iron stores are used to guide iron replacement therapy. Most Aboriginal and/or Torres Islander Australians of the Northern Territory (herein respectively referred to as First Nation Australians) with end stage kidney disease have ferritin levels higher than current guideline recommendations for iron therapy. There is no clear evidence to guide safe and effective treatment with iron in these patients. We aim to assess the impact of intravenous iron treatment on all-cause death and hospitalisation with a principal diagnosis of all-cause infection in First Nation patients on haemodialysis with anaemia, high ferritin levels and low transferrin saturationMethodsIn a prospective open-label blinded endpoint randomised controlled trial, a total 576 participants on maintenance haemodialysis with high ferritin (>700µg/L and ≤2000µg/L) and low transferrin saturation (<40%) from 7 renal units across the Northern Territory of Australia will be randomised 1:1 to receive intravenous iron polymaltose 400mg once monthly (200mg during 2 consecutive haemodialysis sessions) (Arm A) or no IV iron treatment (standard treatment) (Arm B). Rescue therapy will be administered when the ferritin levels fall below 700µg/L or when clinically indicated. The primary outcome will be the differences between the two-study arms in the risk of hospitalisation with all-cause infection or death. An economic analysis and several secondary and tertiary outcomes analyses will also be performed.DiscussionThe INFERR clinical trial will address significant uncertainty on the safety and efficacy of iron therapy in First Nation Australians with CKD with hyperferritinaemia and evidence of iron deficiency. This will hopefully lead to the development of evidence-based guidelines. It will also provide the opportunity to explore the causes of hyperferritinaemia in First Nation Australians. Trial registrationThis trial is registered with The Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12620000705987; Registered 29 June 2020https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=378517
Dexmedetomidine Improved One-lung Ventilation-induced Cognitive Dysfunction in Rats
Authors: LI Mengyun , JIN Zhe , ZHAN Jia , WANG Yanlin , CHEN Kai
Published: October 2021

Background: One-lung ventilation (OLV) is widely used in thoracic surgery. However, OLV may also increase CERO2 and aggravate delayed cognitive recovery. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of dexmedetomidine (DEX) on cognitive function in rats undergoing OLV. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two-lung ventilation (TLV) group, OLV group and OLV treated with DEX group. Group DEX received 25 μg/kg DEX i.p. 30 min before induction. After mechanical ventilation (MV), Morris water maze (MWM) test was carried out to examine spatial memory function. Western blotting was used to detect pERK1/2, pCREB, Bcl-2 and BAX in hippocampal tissues. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to observe the hippocampal CA1 region. Results: Post-MV, compared with group OLV, group DEX showed increases in percentage of target quadrant time (P<0.05), platform crossings (P<0.05), a reduction in CERO2 (P<0.05), and pERK1/2, pCREB, and Bcl-2 significantly increased (P<0.01 or P<0.05), while BAX significantly decreased (P<0.01), besides, a less damaged synaptic structure was observed in group DEX. Conclusions: DEX improved post-MV cognitive function in rats undergoing OLV, reduced cerebral oxygen consumption, protected synaptic structure and upregulated ERK1/2-CREB anti-apoptotic signaling pathway in hippocampal CA1 region.
Quantitative Weathering Assessment of Rock Slope using CIELAB Color Space and Image Analysis Technique
Authors: Razali Mazlina , Jamal Muhd Herman , Ismail Mohd Ashraf Mohamad , Yusoff Intan Norsheira , Nagendran Sharan Kumar , Zainal Zuraini , Zainuddin Nurul Eilmy , Tobe Hayato , Miyoshi Takako , Date Kensuke , Yokota Yasuhiro
Published: October 2021

Quantitative weathering assessment using color changes is one of the new tools for slope stability assessment. In many other engineering field, CIELAB color space and image analytical tools have aided in enhancing the conventional method or inaccuracy due to the subjective and qualitative nature of visual assessment. This study focuses on the granitic rock slope surface assessment because of the predominant rock formation of granite in Malaysia. The 3D model of the rock slope was analyzed to extract the geological planes using compass plugin in Cloud Compare software and verified by manual compass mapping via scanline survey. Findings show that the a* and b* values increased with an increase in weathering results. This study focuses on the 50 points of measurement of rock slope and indicated a positive correlation of a* and b* with R2=0.9027. The image analysis result of the rock slope shows that major zoning (74%) is susceptible to failure due to structural control whilst another 26% are controlled by significant weathering in the grade IV-VI. This outcome is strongly verified via a geomechanical test, geological structure, and mineralogical assessment. The aforementioned mechanism is recommended in any geotechnical and technical purpose in enhancing the method of weathering assessment because image analysis provides reliable measurements in addition to the manual visual inspection.
Peroxymonosulfate Activation by Co-Doped Magnetic Mn3O4 for Degradation of Oxytetracycline in Water
Authors: He Liyan , Li Hui , Wang Jianzhi , Gao Qifei , Li Xiaoli
Published: October 2021

Co-doped magnetic Mn3O4 was synthesized by the solvothermal method and adopted as an effective catalyst for the degradation of oxytetracycline (OTC) in water. Synergistic interactions between Co-Mn3O4 and Fe3O4 not only resulted in the enhanced catalytic activity through the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to degrade OTC, but also made Fe3O4/Co-Mn3O4 easy to be separated and recovered from aqueous solution. 94.2% of OTC could be degraded within 60 min at an initial OTC concentration of 10 mg/L, catalyst dosage of 0.2 g/L and PMS concentration of 10 mM, the high efficiency of which was achieved in a wider pH range of 3.0-10.0. The free radical quenching experiments showed that O2•- radicals and 1O2 played the main role in the degradation process. Co3+, Co2+, Fe2+, Fe3+, Mn4+, Mn3+ and Mn2+ on Fe3O4/Co-Mn3O4 were identified as catalytic sites based on XPS analysis. Eventually, the intermediates of OTC degradation were examined and the possible decomposition pathways were proposed. The excellent catalytic performance of Fe3O4/Co-Mn3O4 not only came from the fact that the large specific surface area could provide abundant active sites for the activation of PMS, but also the charged redistribution among atoms to accelerate the reduction of metal ions. The high degradation efficiency of OTC in actual water samples indicated that Fe3O4/Co-Mn3O4 had good potential for practical application.
Unloading Effect of the Shear Resistance of Rock Joints
Authors: Yang Jianan , Wang Shuo , Wang Qiongting , Xing Wenzheng , Fan Pengxian
Published: October 2021

To investigate the stress path dependent of rock joints, a comparative experimental study was conducted using cement mortar replicas of artificially split rock joints. In total, 32 replicas were casted and divided into four groups by joint roughness coefficient (JRC). The effects of morphologic characteristics, normal stress levels and stress paths on the shear strength of joints were investigated through tangential loading tests and normal unloading tests. The comparative analysis on the test results indicated that the shear resistance has a distinct unloading effect. The variation trend of shear/normal stress ratio against the normal stress and JRC of the two test conditions were identical. However, under low normal-stress condition, the stress ratio of the joints under normal unloading stress is the higher one; while under higher normal stress, the relationship becomes converse. Compared to that of the tangential loading condition, shear/normal stress ratio of the unloading stress path reduces rapidly as the increasing of normal stress, and the influence of the morphology is masked under lower normal stress. The comparative study revealed a previously unknown unloading effect on the mechanical behavior of rock joints and will aid the estimation of the rock joints’ stability in a complex stress environment.
Toxoplasma gondii is not an important contributor to poor reproductive performance of primiparous ewes from southern Australia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Clune Thomas , Lockwood Amy , Hancock Serina , Thompson Andrew , Bruce Mieghan , Beetson Sue , Campbell Angus , Glanville Elsa , Brookes Daniel , Trengove Colin , O’Handley Ryan , Jacobson Caroline
Published: October 2021

Background
Toxoplasma gondii causes reproductive losses in sheep worldwide, including Australia. The reproductive performance of primiparous ewes is typically lower than for mature multiparous ewes, and younger ewes are more likely to be immunologically naïve and therefore more susceptible to reproductive disease if T. gondii infection occurs during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of infection with T. gondii on the reproductive performance of primiparous ewes in southern Australia using a prospective cohort study. This will inform the need for targeted control strategies for T. gondii in Australian sheep.
Results
Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity using indirect ELISA was detected at 16/28 farms located across southern Australia. Apparent seroprevalence was lower in primiparous ewes (1.1%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.6, 1.8) compared to mature multiparous ewes (8.1%, 95% CI 6.0, 10.5; P < 0.001). Toxoplasma gondii seroconversion during the gestation and lambing period was confirmed for 11/1097 (1.0%, 95% CI 0.5, 1.7) of pregnant primiparous ewes that failed to raise a lamb, and 1/161 (0.6%, 95% CI 0.1, 2.9) primiparous ewes with confirmed abortion. Toxoplasma gondii was not detected using qPCR in tissue samples from aborted or stillborn lambs (n = 35) from a subset of six farms.
Conclusions
Low seroprevalence and low incidence of seroconversion during gestation suggests that toxoplasmosis was not an important contributor to reproductive losses in primiparous ewes on farms located over a wide geographical area in southern Australia.
Do sustainable palliative single fraction radiotherapy practices proliferate or perish 2 years after a knowledge translation campaign?
Authors: Shahhat Shaheer , Hanumanthappa Nikesh , Chung Youn Tae , Beck James , Koul Rashmi , Bashir Bashir , Cooke Andrew , Dubey Arbind , Butler Jim , Nashed Maged , Hunter William , Rathod Shrinivas , Ong Aldrich , Tran Kim , Kim Julian Oliver
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of data regarding the time-dependent effects of knowledge translation (KT) campaign derived Radiation Oncologist (RO) prescription behaviour. In early 2017, the XXXX and XXXX undertook a comprehensive KT campaign to improve utilization of single fraction radiotherapy (SFRT) over multiple fraction radiotherapy (MFRT) in accordance with clinical guidelines for palliative management of bone metastases. The campaign significantly increased short-term SFRT utilization. We assess the time-dependent effects of KT-derived SFRT utilization 12-24 months removed from the KT campaign in a Canadian Provincial Cancer Program.
METHODS

This retrospective, population-based cohort study identified all patients receiving palliative radiotherapy for bone metastases in XXXX from 1 Jan 2018 to 31 Dec 2018 using provincial radiotherapy databases. Baseline characteristics were tabulated by fractionation schedule. The proportion of patients treated with SFRT in 2018 was compared to 2017 levels overall and by prescribing RO. Logistic regression analyses identified risk factors associated with MFRT receipt.
RESULTS

In 2018, 1,008 patients received palliative radiotherapy for bone metastasis, of which 63.3% received SFRT, a small overall increase in SFRT use over 2017 (59.1%). However, 41.1% of ROs demonstrated year-over-year decreases in SFRT utilization, indicative of a time-dependent loss of SFRT prescription habits derived from KT.
CONCLUSION

Although SFRT use increased slightly overall in 2018, evidence of compliance fatigue was observed suggestive of a time-perishing property of RO prescription behaviours derived from KT methodologies. These findings highlight the need for additional longitudinal KT reinforcement practices in the years following KT campaigns.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Criteria for MELAS Syndrome; a Case Study Involving an Elderly Patient With MT-TWm.5541C>T Mutation
Authors: Wu Gang , Shen Yuguang , Zhu Feng , Tao Weiwei , Zhou Yuanlin , Ke Shaofa , Jiang Huihua
Published: October 2021

Background: Mitochondrial encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome is a matrilineal hereditary multi-system disease due to mutations of mitochondrial DNA. Though the initial diagnostic criteria prevail till nowadays, which take a range of clinical phenotypes into consideration including clinical onset after the age of 40, a confirmative diagnostic standard for MELAS is still needed.Case presentation: A 71-year-old female patient presented with recurrent stroke to our hospital. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a cerebral gyrus-like area with hyperintensity in the parietal-occipital lobe on DWI and this area expanded with disease progression. The Lac/Lip peaks were significantly inverted in the MRS imaging. Nucleic acid sequencing showed a MT-TWm.5541C>T mutation, and the mutation rate of the blood sample was 12.86%. The patient had a 6-year history of type 2 diabetes. The patient experienced recurrent stroke and was given coenzyme Q10 capsules and idebenone tablets to improve metabolism, vitamin B to nourish nerves, edaravone to scavenge oxygen free radicals, and oxcarbazepine to manage seizures. At 1-month follow-up, her condition was stable.Conclusion: Patients with MELAS syndrome have complex clinical manifestations. Our data demonstrated that, for patients with atypical cerebral infarction and suspected MELAS syndrome, gene sequencing and muscle biopsy should be completed in time, which may serve as a reference for the diagnostic criteria of MELAS syndrome.
Correlation and Predictive Ability Between Sensory Characteristics and Social Interaction of Children in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Zhai Jinhe , Fan Lili , Zhou Yong , Li Yutong , Li Xiaoxue , Xia Wei , Wang Jia , Wu Lijie
Published: October 2021

Background: As a kind of neurodevelopmental disorder, the deficiency of social interaction and communication ability is the core symptom of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, ASD usually has sensory abnormalities, which may be an important influencing factor of social function. Here, the aim of the current study is to explore the abnormal sensory characteristics of ASD children and the correlation between social behavior. And further clarify the predictive effect of sensory expression on ASD social ability.Methods: A case-control study was conducted, with children aged 3 to 10 years including ASD and typical development (TD) as subjects. We used Short Sensory Profile (SSP) questionnaire to evaluate the sensory characteristics in ASD group and TD group. And Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) was employed to assess the social function of ASD. The differences of SSP scores between two groups of children were compared, and the correlation between SSP in ASD group and SRS was further analyzed. Furthermore, by constructing random forest classification model and support vector machine classification model, the predictive ability of each perception on social level is discussed.Results: Significant differences were found between ASD children and TD children in the performance of each sensory field. The abnormal sensory rate of children in ASD group is as high as 91.4%, and 74% of them are accompanied by sensory disorders in multiple dimensions.It is worth noting that there is a significant negative correlation between the scores of ASD group children in all dimensions of SSP and the scores of SRS scale. Evaluation and comparison results of full-feature and 7-feature models show that the random forest model and SVM model with all-feature factors have higher sensitivity, while the random forest model with 7-feature factors has the highest specificity. Moreover, the maximum of area value under (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve between the four models up to 0.859, suggest that the good prediction effect of the models.Conclusion: Our results suggest autism children have obvious abnormalities in many sensory fields, and there is a significant correlation between this atypical sensory performance and social function. The social level of this group can be well predicted by their sensory characteristics.
Improvement of physical activity was significantly reduced serum hepatocyte growth factor levels in a general population: 10-year prospective study
Authors: Sakaue Akiko , Adachi Hisashi , Enomoto Mika , Fukami Ako , Nohara Yume , Morikawa Nagisa , Yamamoto Maki , Satoh Hiromi , Fukumoto Yoshihiro
Published: October 2021

Background: We have previously reported that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) levels were significantly associated with insulin resistance or components of the metabolic syndrome. However, it has been unknown how physical activity (PA) affects HGF levels after a long-term follow-up.Aims: Our aim was to clarify the association between PA changes and HGF levels /cerebro-cardiovascular disease (CVD) development during 10 years follow-up period in a community-dwelling Japanese general population.Methods: Of 1,320 subjects who received a health check-up examination in Tanushimaru town in 1999, 903 subjects (341 males and 562 females) were enrolled, who received the examination both in 1999 and 2009. We evaluated their PA levels by Baecke questionnaire in 1999 and evaluated their PA levels by a simple questionnaire in 2009. We measured the serum HGF levels by ELISA method in 1999 and 2009. We divided into four physical activity groups such as stable low PA, increased PA, decreased PA, and stable high PA. Using these questionnaires, we compared their PA and HGF levels in 10 years.Results: A significant inverse association was found between PA changes and serum HGF levels in 10 years after adjustment for age and sex. The serum HGF levels of increased PA group were significantly lower than stable low PA (p=0.038), and the former group showed the reduced CVD development compared to the latter group after adjustment for age and sex (p=0.012).Conclusions: Our data demonstrated that improvement of PA levels was associated with reduced HGF levels and CVD development.
Role of Big data in HealthCare and Internet of Things: A Detailed Bibliometric Survey
Authors: Addepa Phani sridhar , Tenneti Krishna Mohana
Published: October 2021

This paper makes the Bibliographic study of the Big Data involvement in Healthcare and Internet of things. Research contribution towards this area has started from the year 2013 as per the fundamental keywords chosen in this survey. Thus makes the thrust discipline and emerging technology of research, also a trendy domain based on its recognized inception. Upon consideration of the selected keywords there was no work up to 2012 and all together 425 papers are obtained from 2013 onwards through Scopus website. Among these major contribution was in Computer Science Subject area with 308 in number and maximum articles were published in English Language with 421 and highest number of papers contributed were 128 by India. This study uses versatile Bibliometric analysis databases and methods resulting in Statistical and Network Analysis in terms of Authors, Organizations, Citations, Co- Citations etc.
Synthesis and Physicochemical Properties of Polyamideimide Membranes Containing ZIF-8 and CMS Particles for Potential Gas Separation Applications
Authors: Balaguru Sasikumar , Sabilon Yohannan Subin , Gangasalam Arthanareeswaran
Published: October 2021

The present study involves the fabrication and characterization of Polyamideimide (PAI) membrane holding ZIF-8 and CMS particles for potential gas separation applications. Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-8 (ZIF-8) nanocrystals were prepared by a precipitation reaction with Zinc metal cluster and 2-methylimidazole, whereas the carbon molecular sieves (CMS) were synthesized by pyrolysis of polyamideimide (PAI) polymer. ZIF-8 and CMS particles were characterized comprehensively for the functional group, crystallinity, and morphological analyses. The successful formation of ZIF-8 nanocrystals was evident from the rhombic octahedron shape, and EDX confirms the presence of Zn metal cluster and methylimidazole linker. The ZIF-8 and CMS nanoparticles incorporated PAI membranes were prepared using phase inversion technique with varying loading wt.% of 1, 2, and 3%. PAI/ZIF-8 and PAI/CMS membranes cross-sectional morphology confirmed that synthesized nanoparticles were well embedded through the PAI membrane. The PAI/ZIF-8 (3 %) membrane, thin dense skin top layer, and well-defined honeycomb porous substructure were observed. Furthermore, the ZIF-8 and CMS particles incorporation have a beneficial impact on the mechanical properties of PAI at the low loading of nanoparticles. Thus, the inclusion of ZIF-8 and CMS particles in the PAI matrix positively altered the physicochemical properties of the resulting hybrid membranes, which could help them achieve remarkable gas permeance and selectivity.
Discovery of Oxazolidinone-Based Heterocycles as Subtype Selective Sigma-2 Ligands
Authors: Blass Benjamin E , Bhandare Richie Rashmin , Canney Daniel J.
Published: October 2021

Alzheimer’s disease is a major, unmet medical need that impacts 6 million people in the US alone. Therapeutic options are limited, and the root cause of this condition remains unclear. The Amyloid Hypothesis has been proposed as a means of explaining the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain of patient. The sigma-2 receptor was recently identified as a potential therapeutic target capable of arresting the formation of amyloid plaques. Herein, we report the identification of a series of novel, functionalized oxazolidin-2-ones sigma-2 ligands.
Recovery from Severe Neurological Sequelae due to Anti-N-methyl D-aspartate Receptor Encephalitis after Three Infusions of Allogeneic Umbilical Cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A First Case Report
Authors: Nguyen Liem Thanh , Hoang Van T. , Thu Huong Le , Nguyen Phuong Anh Thi , Hoang Duc M. , Ngo Doan Van , Vu Hung Cao , Bich Van Nguyen Thi , Heke Michael
Published: October 2021

PurposeAnti-N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is caused by altered patients’ immune reactions. This study reports the first patient with severe neurologic sequelae after NMDA receptor encephalitis treated with allogeneic umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (UC-MSCs) via intrathecal route.MethodsUC-MSCs were obtained from a healthy donor and expanded under a xeno- and serum-free condition. The patient received three intrathecal UC-MSC infusions at the dose of 106 cells/Kg. The outcome was accessed using the German Coma Recovery Scale (CRS), the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), the Gross Motor Function Measure–88 (GMFM-88), Manual Ability Classification System (MACS), Modified Ashworth Scale, and the Denver II test.ResultsA 5-year-old girl suffered from a permanent vegetative state with diffuse cerebral atrophy due to NMDA receptor encephalitis despite intensive treatment of immunosuppressive medicaments and IVIG. After three UC-MSC infusions, her cognition and motoric functions improved progressively. In the last visits, she could walk, practice writing, and count numbers. Urinary and bowel functions were completely controlled. Cerebral atrophy reduced on brain MRI.ConclusionsThe outcomes of this patient suggest a potential cell therapy for autoimmune encephalitis and its neurological consequences.
Factors Affecting Adherence to Early Mobilization in an Intensive Care Unit: An Analysis of Data Collected Prospectively Over a Three-Year Period by Clinical Information System
Authors: Perelló Paula , Gómez Josep , Mariné Judith , Cabas Maria Teresa , Arasa Alba , Ramos Zaida , Moya David , Reynals Irene , Bodí María , Magret Mònica
Published: October 2021

Background: Early mobilization benefits critically ill patients. Scant information is available about adherence to early mobilization protocols in intensive care units (ICU). With the aim of optimizing the application of our early mobilization protocol in mechanically ventilated patients in routine daily practice, this study analyzed adherence to the protocol, impediments to adherence, and adverse eventsin our ICU. Methods: This observational study analyzed data collected prospectively at a 24-bed polyvalent ICU over a three-year period (2017–2019). Data from adult patients on mechanical ventilation > 48 hours who met the inclusion criteria for the early mobilization protocol were included. We analyzed demographics, adherence to the protocol, total number of mobilizations, impediments to early mobilization, artificial airway/ventilatory support at each mobilization level, and adverse events during mobilization. All data was automatically obtained from the clinical information system by extract, transform, and load processes using Python 3.0. The unit of analysis was ICU stay-day. Results: We analyzed 3269 stay-days from 388 patients with median age of 63 (51–72) years, median APACHE II 23 (18–29) and median ICU stay of 10.1 (6.2–16.5) days. Adherence to the protocol was 56.6% (1850 stay-days), but patients were mobilized in only 32.2% (1472) of all stay-days. The most common reasons for not mobilizing patients were failure to meeting the criteria for clinical stability in 241 (42%) stay-days and unavailability of physiotherapists in 190 (33%) stay-days. Adverse events occurred in only 6 (0.4%) stay-days mobilizations. Conclusions: Although adherence to the protocol was high, patients were mobilized in only one-third of all stay-days. This study points to ways we can improve early mobilization in our ICU, including assessing the suitability of the criteria for clinical stability and increasing the presence of physiotherapists.
Nanoscopic resolution within a single imaging frame
Authors: García Esley , Cámara Raúl , Linares Alejandro , Martínez Damián , Abonza Víctor , Brito-Alarcon Eduardo , Calcines-Cruz Carlos , Galindo Gustavo , Torres David , Jabloñski Martina , Torres-Martínez Héctor H. , Martínez José , Hernández Haydee , Ocelotl Joseph , Garcés Yasel , Barchi Marco , Dubrovsky Joseph G. , Darszon Alberto , Buffone Mariano , Rodríguez Roberto , Rendón-Mancha Juan , Wood Christopher , Hernández Armando , Krapf Diego , Crevenna Álvaro , Guerrero Adán
Published: October 2021

Mean-Shift Super Resolution (MSSR) is a principle based on the Mean Shift theory that improves the spatial resolution in fluorescence images beyond the diffraction limit. MSSR works on low- and high-density fluorophore images, is not limited by the architecture of the detector (EM-CCD, sCMOS, or photomultiplier-based laser scanning systems) and is applicable to single images as well as temporal series. The theoretical limit of spatial resolution, based on optimized real-world imaging conditions and analysis of temporal image series, has been measured to be 40 nm. Furthermore, MSSR has denoising capabilities that outperform other analytical super resolution image approaches. Altogether, MSSR is a powerful, flexible, and generic tool for multidimensional and live cell imaging applications.
Eugenol and Its Liposomal Based Nano-carrier Protects Against Anxiety Disorder in Mice.
Authors: siyal fahad jibran , siddiqui rehan ahmed , memon zahida , batool zahra , Rahman aneela Atta Ur , humayun arsalan
Published: October 2021

Background: Anxiety can also be termed as excessive worry which last for at least more than six months and patients can have difficulty in controlling them. Anxiety is having 31% of life time prevalence and sad part is that the anxiety disorders are not treated and diagnosed well. 3.1% which is 6.8 Million peoples of America are having anxiety disorders. The main part of clove oil is eugenol along with caryophyllene. Eugenol is present at about 70 to 90 percentage and also it contains 15 percentage of total dry weight of bud. Methodology: Pre-clinical experimental study was conducted for 10-12 Months. Male BALB/c mice were purchased from ICCBS. Sample Size was 42 BALB/c mice and divided into 07 groups. Results: The animal model was developed and it was found that Eugenol and its liposomal based nano carrier protect anxiety disorders in mice with the help of behavioral tests such as Elevated plus maze and open field tests and was recorded as Mean and SD, frequency and percentages accordingly. Conclusion: Therefore with the help of behavioral studies i.e. open field test and elevated plus maze test, eugenol and its liposomal based nano particle protect anxiety disorder in the mice by increasing the entry time and stay of mice in open arms for longer duration in elevated maze plus test and in open field the anxiety was reduced after mice spent most of time in the center rather than periphery.
Leveraging interindividual variability of regulatory activity refines genetic regulation of gene expression in schizophrenia
Authors: Alver Maris , Lykoskoufis Nikolaos , Ramisch Anna , Ongen Halit , Dermitzakis Emmanouil
Published: October 2021

Schizophrenia is a polygenic psychiatric disorder with limited understanding about the mechanistic changes in gene expression regulation. To elucidate on this, we integrate interindividual variability of regulatory activity with gene expression and genotype data captured from the prefrontal cortex of 272 cases and controls. We show that regulatory element activity is structured into 10,936 and 10,376 cis-regulatory domains in cases and controls, respectively, which display distinct regulatory element coordination structures in both states. By studying the interplay among genetic variants, gene expression and cis-regulatory domains, we ascertain that changes in coordinated regulatory activity tag alterations in gene expression levels (p=8.62e-06, OR=1.60), unveil case-specific QTL effects, and identify regulatory machinery changes for genes affecting synaptic function and dendritic spine morphology in schizophrenia. Altogether, we show that accounting for coordinated regulatory activity provides a novel mechanistic approach to reduce the search space for unveiling genetically perturbed regulation of gene expression in schizophrenia.
The Natural Antioxidants Curcumin and Silymarin Afforded Hepatoprotective Effects against Deferasirox-Induced Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Osman Enass Y. , Abo-Elnasr Souzan E. , Zaher Shaimaa Mohammed , AbuoHashish Norhan Ahmed
Published: October 2021

Deferasirox belongs to a new is a bishydroxyphenyltriazoles iron chelator used for treatment of chronic iron overload. The use of Deferasirox is associated with hepatotoxicity. Silymarin is a benzo gamma-pyrones flavonoid which affords hepatoprotection and preserves hepatocyte membranes by its antioxidant effect. Curcumin is a poly-phenol compound naturally concentrated in the herb Curcuma longa. The present study was conducted to evaluate and compare the hepatoprotective effects of both silymarin and curcumin against deferasirox-induced hepatotoxicity in rats and to explore the potential mechanisms account for their hepatoprotective effects. The present study was carried out using 32 male wistar randomly assigned into 4 groups (8 rats each) as follows; Group1: served as normal control group in which rats received distilled water (0.5ml per rat) by oral gavage. Group II (Deferasirox group) in which hepatotoxicity was induced by oral administration of deferasirox in a dose of 100 mg/kg once daily for 4 weeks dissolved in distilled water for a concentration of 35mg/ml. Group III (deferasirox+ curcumin) in which rats received curcumin in a dose of 100 mg/kg daily dose by oral gavage for 4 weeks suspended in distilled water for a concentration of 35 mg/ml one hour before administration of deferasirox. Group IV (deferasirox+ silymarin) in which rats received silymarin in dose of 7.56 mg/kg once daily by oral gavage for 4 weeks suspended in distilled water for a concentration of 2.7mg/ml one hour before administration of deferasirox. At the end of the treatment period, all rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, blood samples were collected for measurement of ALT, AST, ALP and total bilirubin. Liver samples were used for measurement of MDA, GSH and IL-6. Histopathological and immunohistochemistry were also done. The present data revealed that rats pretreated with curcumin or silymarin exhibited significant reduction in ALT, AST, ALP, total bilirubin, IL-6 and MDA levels with significant elevation of GSH level compared to deferasirox group. In-between group comparison revealed that there was a more significant reduction in ALT, AST, ALP, total bilirubin, IL-6 and MDA in group IV compared to group III. In conclusion, both curcumin and silymarin represent natural protective agents against Deferasirox-induced hepatotoxicity due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Bibliometric Analysis of Circular RNA Research on Stem Cells: A Swiftly Expanding and Shifting Focus
Authors: Liu Shiyi , Wan Longyu , Zhang Xiaohan , Long Fei , lin changwei
Published: October 2021

Background: The important roles of circular RNA in various aspects of the stem cell field have been gradually reported. This is the first time in recent decades that quantitative and qualitative evidence from bibliometrics has been used to conduct an in-depth analysis of circRNA in stem cell research to reveal relative research progress, trends and hotspots.Methods: Publications from 1999 to August 7, 2021 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). All statistical analyses were performed using VOSviewer, CiteSpace and GraphPad Prism 7.Results: The study shows that the number of papers on circRNA in stem cells has increased significantly since 2016. Among all types of papers, articles are the most published paper types, followed by reviews. Worldwide, published papers come mostly from China, followed by the USA, Germany, and Italy. However, Israel and Iran ranked first per million people and per trillion gross domestic product (GDP), respectively. The keyword analysis results were stratified into four clusters by VOSviewer software: Cluster 1, “cancer treatment”; Cluster 2, “function and effect”; Cluster 3, “characteristics” and Cluster 4, “osteogenic differentiation”.Conclusions: Our results suggest that attention should be drawn to the latest hotspots, such as extracellular vesicles, ceRNAs and osteogenesis. In addition, suggestions on research directions and investment trends are provided to researchers and institutions.
Sterilization of Paper During Crisis
Authors: Alshammari Fwzah H. , Hussein Hebat-Allah A.
Published: October 2021

Paper sheets represent one of the infection risk sources inside many institutions. The present study aimed to validate the sterilization efficiency of contaminated paper sheets with different indicator pathogens by gamma radiation or dry heat technique with retaining their structure. The results show that gamma irradiation at 6 kGy, 12 kGy, and 24 kGy can successfully kill Gram-positive bacteria like Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus, Gram-negative bacteria like Escherichia Coli and Salmonella typhi, and fungi such as Candida albicans. Moreover, dry heat at 100°C for 1 hour, 150 for 30 min, or 200 for 15 min can be successful in paper decontamination completely all tested species. Surprise, micrographs of scanning electron microscope (SEM) proved that a radiation dose of 6 kGy, dry heat at 100°C for 1 hour, 150 for 30 min or 200 for 15 min is suitable for paper sheets sterilization with maintaining their structure. Ultimately, dry heat or γ-radiation as simple, useful, effective, fast, safe, and inexpensive techniques. It may be used as a precautionary step inside educational institutions especially, during written examinations period to ensure safe life for academic members during biological pandemics like covid-19.
Tracing Carbon and Nitrogen Microbial Assimilation in Suspended Particles in Freshwaters
Authors: Mena-Rivera Leonardo , Lloyd Charlotte E.M. , Reay Michaela K. , Goodall Tim , Read Daniel S , Johnes Penny , Evershed Professor Richard
Published: October 2021

The dynamic interactions between dissolved organic matter (DOM) and particulate organic matter (POM) are central in nutrient cycling in freshwater ecosystems. However, the molecular-level mechanisms of such interactions are still poorly defined. Here, we study spatial differences in the chemical and molecular composition of suspended sediments in the River Chew, UK. We then applied a compound-specific stable isotope probing (SIP) approach to test the potential assimilation of 13C,15N-glutamate (Glu) and 15N-nitrate into proteinaceous biomass by particle-associated microbial communities over a 72-h period. Our results demonstrate that the composition of suspended sediments is strongly influenced by the effluent of sewage treatment works (STW). Fluxes and percentages of assimilation of both isotopically labelled substrates into individual proteinaceous amino acids (AAs) showed contrasting dynamics in processing at each site linked to primary biosynthetic metabolic pathways. Preferential assimilation of the organic molecule glutamate and evidence of its direct assimilation into newly synthesised biomass was obtained. Our approach provides quantitative molecular information on the mechanisms by which low molecular weight DOM is mineralised in the water column compared to an inorganic substrate. This is paramount for better understanding the processing and fate of organic matter in aquatic ecosystems.
Feasibility of Low-Cost Particle Sensor Types in Long-Term Indoor Air Pollution Health Studies After Repeated Calibration Over a 2-Year Timeframe
Authors: Anastasiou Elle , Vilcassim M. J. Ruzmyn , Adragna John , Gill Emily , Tovar Albert , Thorpe Lorna E. , Gordon Terry
Published: October 2021

Background

Previous studies have explored using calibrated low-cost particulate matter (PM) sensors, but important research gaps remain regarding long-term performance and reliability.
Objective

Evaluate longitudinal performance of low-cost particle sensors by measuring sensor performance changes over 2 years of use.
Methods

51 low-cost particle sensors (Airbeam 1 N=29; Airbeam 2 N=22) were calibrated four times over a 2-year timeframe between 2019-2021. Cigarette smoke-specific calibration curves for Airbeam 1 and 2 PM sensors were created by directly comparing simultaneous 1-min readings of a Thermo Scientific Personal DataRAM PDR-1500 unit with a 2.5 µm inlet.
Results

Inter-sensor variability in calibration coefficient was high, particularly in Airbeam 1 sensors at study initiation. Calibration coefficients for both sensor types trended downwards over time to <1 at final calibration timepoint [Airbeam 1 Mean (SD)= 0.87 (0.20); Airbeam 2 Mean (SD) = 0.96 (0.27)]. We lost more Airbeam 1 sensors (N=27, failure rate 48.2%) than Airbeam 2 (N=2, failure rate 16.7%) due to electronics, battery, or data output issues.
Conclusions

Evidence suggests degradation over time might depend more on particle sensor type, rather than individual usage. Repeated calibrations of low-cost particle sensors may increase confidence in reported PM levels in longitudinal indoor air pollution studies.
Prospects for the Use of Xylotrophic Fungi Pleurotus ostreatus Florida and Schizophyllum commune for Mycoremediation of Soils Contaminated with Oil Hydrocarbons and Surfactants
Authors: Dubrovskaya E.V. , Grinev V.S. , Turkovskaya O.V.
Published: October 2021

Abstract-A model system for the successful mycoremediation of soil contaminated with real oil pollution has been developed on the basis of Pleurotus ostreatus Florida grown on a natural substrate (husk, straw). It was shown that under these conditions, mycoremediation was observed during 2 weeks at 24° C with oil contamination of up to 22 g/kg and inoculum/soil ratio of 1:10. The solid-phase P. ostreatus inoculums grown on straw induced the production of highly active ligninolytic enzymes, laccases and hybrid peroxidases. This allows us to recommend this inoculum for the development of technologies for mycoremediation of soils contaminated with mixtures of pollutants with a high content of aromatic fractions. Based on the solid-phase inoculum of Schizophyllum commune grown on a natural substrate (pine sawdust), a semi-submerged model system was developed, which can be repeatedly used for the degradation of surfactants in the soil. In this case, sawdust can be considered not only as a source of carbon and energy for the fungus, but also as a kind of natural carrier for its immobilization. This model system based on S. commune grown on a natural substrate can also be recommended for the development of ecological biotechnologies on its basis.

Key words: mycoremediation, basidiomycetes, oil, surfactants, ligninolytic enzymes

This work was carried out and funded within the framework of theme No. 121031700141-7 (IBPPM RAS) with partial support of the Russian Science Foundation (project no. 16-14-00081 "Fungi for Environmentally Significant Biotechnologies") (degradation of surfactants) and of the Russian Foundation for Basic Research (project no. 18-29-05062 "Development of Scientific Foundations of a New Integrated Biotechnology for Oil Spill Response in the Arid Climate Zone") (mycoremediation of oil-contaminated soil).
Recombinant strains producing thermostable lipase from Thermomyces lanuginosus and their use in heterogeneous biocatalysis, including in the processes of low-temperature synthesis of esters
Authors: Pykhtina M.B. , Perminova L.V. , Kovalenko G.A.
Published: October 2021

Abstract-This work was devoted to the construction of recombinant strains Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) and Pichia pastoris X33, producing a 1,3-specific thermostable lipase from Thermomyces lanuginosus. The sequences of two lipase genes were optimized for expression in bacteria and methylotrophic yeasts, then synthesized and cloned into the corresponding expression vectors. As a result of genetic engineering manipulations, E. coli and P. pastoris strains were constructed that efficiently produced recombinant lipase from T. lanuginosus, which accumulated in the cytoplasm in an amount of 30-40% of the total cellular protein. Recombinant P. pastoris clones secreted lipase into the nutrient medium at a concentration of at least 1 g/L. Lipases produced by the recombinant clones, designated as rE.coli/lip and rPichia/lip, respectively, contained a six-histidine sequence (-His6) in the C-terminal region. The resulting lipases were immobilized on/in solid inorganic supports in order to develop heterogeneous biocatalysts (HB) for the enzymatic conversion of triglycerides and fatty acids. The rPichia/lip enzyme was adsorbed on mesoporous silica and macroporous carbon aerogel. The properties of the prepared HB, their enzymatic activity, substrate specificity and operational stability were studied in the reaction of esterification of fatty acids with aliphatic alcohols in organic solvents at 20 ± 2°C. It was found that immobilized lipases had a relatively wide substrate specificity, as well as high operational stability, and the prepared HB almost completely retained their high esterifying activity for several tens of reaction cycles.

Key words: Escherichia coli, Pichia pastoris, recombinant strains-producers, Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase gene, immobilization, biocatalysts, esterification

The authors are grateful to V. L. Kuznetsov for the provided samples of carbon aerogel and A. V. Ryabchenko for gene-engineering manipulation aimed at obtaining the recombinant rE. coli strain, a producer of the rE.coli/lip enzyme.

The work was carried out under the Project on Fundamental Research within the framework of a state assignment to the Institute for Catalysis "Catalysts and Processes of Renewable Raw Material Conversion" (no. 0239-2021-0005).
A Possibility of Using Ion-Track Matrices based on Polyesters to Create Artificial Connective Tissue
Authors: Petrova D.V. , Koshlan N.A. , Vinogradov I.I. , Bogdanova Y.V. , Koshlan I.V. , Nechaev А.N.
Published: October 2021

Abstract-The cultivation of Chinese hamster fibroblasts (line V79) on ion-track membranes of various polyesters has been tested. Light and electron microscopy were used to take photographs of polyester membranes with fibroblasts grown on them, which indicated the attachment and proliferation of cells on ion-track adhesive surfaces. The greatest survival of fibroblasts was observed on ion-track membranes with a pore diameter of up to 0.5 μ. It was shown that the chemical composition of the track membrane affects the survival and proliferation rate of Chinese hamster fibroblasts. Polyethylene terephtalate and polyethylene naphtalate membranes provided the highest percentage of grown colonies and the greatest proliferation rate of cells. Track-etched polyester membranes can be used to create adhesive surfaces for the cultivation of fibroblasts and the production of artificial connective tissue.

Key words: ion-track membranes and technologies, tissue engineering, fibroblasts, burn therapy
Informe sobre aves raras en Euskadi en 2020
Authors: Arizaga Juan , Belamendia Gorka , Calleja David , Cañadas Javier , de Dios Carmelo , Gainzarain José Antonio , Gorospe Gorka
Published: October 2021

A través de este documento, el Comité de Rarezas de Euskadi (CRE) recopila la homologación de citas de aves raras en 2020 en el territorio de Euskadi (Comunidad Autónoma Vasca). Este Comité, creado al amparo del Comité Ornitológico de Euskadi (COE), ejerce su actividad para recopilar, estudiar y publicar todas las citas de especies o subespecies cuya presencia en Euskadi es accidental o irregular. A lo largo de 2020 se evaluaron un total de 136 citas, además de otras 2 citas pendientes de 2019. De todas ellas, 70 fueron homologadas, 5 se asignaron a categoría D, 3 a categoría E, 48 fueron rechazadas (no homologadas) y 10 quedaron pendientes de evaluación. Por otro lado, dado el alto número de citas registradas durante los últimos años, se elimina de la lista de aves raras, desde el 1 de enero de 2021, el elanio común Elanus caeruleus. Asimismo, dado el escaso número de citas registradas durante los últimos años, se incorpora a la lista, desde el 1 de enero de 2021, el porrón pardo Aythya nyroca.