bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison Between Endobronchial‐Guided Transbronchial Biopsy and Computed Tomography–Guided Transthoracic Lung Biopsy for the Diagnosis of Central Pulmonary Lesions
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Zhu Senlin , Yuan Yanliang , Dai Shenhui
Published: September 2024

Background

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors at present. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy, complication rates, and predictive values of computed tomography (CT)–guided percutaneous transthoracic needle biopsy (PTNB) and electronic bronchoscopy–guided transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB) for patients with central pulmonary lesions (CPLs) with a diameter ≥ 3 cm.

Methods

We retrospectively included 110 patients with CPLs with a diameter ≥ 3 cm who underwent preoperative PTNB and TBLB examinations and ultimately underwent surgery to remove CPLs and obtained pathological results. Detailed information was collected in order to compare whether there was a difference between two groups. Data were processed using SPSS software (Version 26.0; IBM Corp). Data were compared by t‐test or chi‐square test. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

All patients underwent surgical treatment at the department of thoracic surgery and obtained a final pathological diagnosis. The rate of positive predictive value (PPV) was comparable between the two methods, and the negative predictive value (NPV) was significantly higher in the PTNB group compared with the TBLB group (p < 0.05). In addition, PTNB was more sensitive and accurate than TBLB (p < 0.05). However, the PTNB group had a higher probability of complications, and TBLB was a relatively safer examination method.

Conclusion

PTNB demonstrated a higher accuracy and sensitivity than TBLB in the treatment of CPLs with a diameter ≥ 3 cm, but the complication rates of PTNB are relatively high. These methods exhibited different diagnostic accuracies and therefore should be selected based on different medical conditions.
A structural equation model of parenting and child's resilience after the earthquake in Türkiye
Authors: Kuru Nilüfer , Ungar Michael
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the relationship between parental psychological wellbeing, parenting, children's psychological difficulties, and prosocial behavior in Kahramanmaraş earthquake‐affected families living in Türkiye in 2023. To this end, a mediation model was proposed for parental psychological distress that was hypothesized to exert an indirect effect on a child's psychological difficulties and prosocial behavior through parenting. Participants were 358 preschoolers between 4 and 6 years old and their one parent (father or mother) who completed a set of validated self‐report surveys in a cross‐sectional design study. Results showed positive associations between parental psychological distress and child's psychological difficulties but negative association with child's prosocial behavior. Furthermore, quality of parenting mediated the association between parental psychological distress and child's psychological difficulties and prosocial behavior. Our findings suggest that positive parenting may serve as a protective mechanism that mediates the association between parental psychological distress and a child's psychological difficulties and prosocial behaviors among families displaced by a natural disaster like an earthquake. These findings point to the need for supporting positive parent–child relationships in addition to decreasing the psychological distress of parents when exposed to potentially traumatizing events like this.
Is the population of kingfish (Scomberomorus commerson) in the northern Persian Gulf really under pressure from overfishing?
Authors: Divani Taher , Haghi Mahsa , Zare Parviz
Published: September 2024

Quantifying the population dynamics of marine species is difficult when good, comprehensive data are not available. We sought to determine if the kingfish Scomberomorus commerson stock in the Persian Gulf was overfished. The ICES data‐limited assessment framework was used to provide precautionary advice, with a 20% decrease advised in situations where only catch or bycatch data were available. The length‐based Bayesian biomass (LBB) was used to model fork length from landing records of licensed fishers in the Khuzestan Province during 2002–2018, which had increased despite sought being overexploited. Most kingfish were immature and smaller than optimum length of the catch (Lc‐opt = 88 cm) and optimum length (Lopt = 104 cm). Relative biomass (B/Bmsy) ranged 0.62–0.66 and exceeded 0.5. The B/Bmsy ratio (1.25) was >1.1. The stock appeared to be healthy and exploitable, but wide confidence intervals of the B/Bmsy ratio complicated interpretation of stock status. The kingfish stock appeared to use waters of the study area as a spawning and nursery ground, so many young immature individuals were present. If current exploitation of young individuals continues, this the stock will eventually be overfished. Long‐term increases in the catch of young immature kingfish can have a side effect on stock maturation and recruitment. We recommend that the mesh size of fishing gear be selected based on optimum length, to enhance economic, and commercial viability of the kingfish fishery.
Fostering self‐directed learning in blended learning environments: A constructivist perspective in Higher Education
Authors: Adigun Olufemi Timothy , Mpofu Nhlanhla , Maphalala Mncedisi Christian
Published: September 2024

Higher education (HE) is considered to be the apex of all educational endeavours. Therefore, it is expected that student in various institutions of higher learning should be self‐motivated for individualized synchronous and asynchronous learning. Lamentably, it seems that such expectation within the HE spaced is yet to be achieved. While stakeholders in HE are in search for an approach to ensure that students have sufficient self‐directed learning (SDL) capacities needed for blended learning (BL), this article advance and propose the use of the constructivist framework to foster SDL to ensure that students develop their own understanding of learning, its meaning according to the context, and the ways to acquire it using BL as a mediator. Using the constructivist theory as a theoretical lens, we proposed the use of a three‐ring‐drag‐in approach as a model to fostering SDL among students in various institutions of higher learning. We, therefore encourage the adoption or adaptability of the three‐ring‐drag‐in approach as it promise to address and resolve the concerns and agitation of enthronement of SDL among students within the HE spaces.
Thomas Kuhn's Quasi‐Fideism
Authors: Marré Thomas
Published: September 2024

Abstract: I argue that Kuhn's account of scientific practice is profitably understood as a kind of hinge epistemology: like our epistemic practices more generally, scientific inquiry is made possible precisely by the fact that certain things are not subject to doubt. In Kuhn's own words, ‘dogmatism’ is essential to scientific practice and one of the primary engines of its success. For this reason, I argue that Kuhn's account is a rich source for reflection on the relationship between faith and reason. At the same time, Kuhn has faced objections similar to those which have faced hinge‐epistemologists: how can disputes grounded in different, incompatible ‘dogmas’ be rationally resolved? Kuhn's response is similar to one put forward by Duncan Pritchard, but is, I argue, an improvement on it. In particular, the hinges on which deep scientific disagreement turns are for Kuhn certain shared values in light of which debate is possible. The choice among competing dogmas can, I argue, be understood on analogy with a prudential judgement of practical reasoning, i.e., an exercise of phronēsis.
CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knockout of the abdominal‐B homeotic gene in the global pest, fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda)
Authors: Liu Xiao‐Guang , Zhao Te , Qiu Qi‐Qi , Wang Cong‐Ke , Li Tian‐Liang , Liu Xiao‐Long , Wang Li , Wang Qin‐Qin , Zhou Lin
Published: September 2024

The Homeotic complex (Hox) genes play a crucial role in determining segment identity and appendage morphology in bilaterian animals along the antero‐posterior axis. Recent studies have expanded to agricultural pests such as fall armyworm (FAW), scientifically known as Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), which significantly threatens global agricultural productivity. However, the specific role of the hox gene Sfabd‐B in FAW remains unexplored. This research investigates the spatial and temporal expression patterns of Sfabd‐B in various tissues at different developmental stages using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Additionally, we explored the potential function of the Sfabd‐B gene located in the FAW genome using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The larval mutant phenotypes can be classified into three subgroups as compared with wild‐type individuals, that is, an excess of pedis in the posterior abdomen, deficient pedis due to segmental fusion and deviations in the posterior abdominal segments. Importantly, significant differences in mutant phenotypes between male and female individuals were also evident during the pupal and adult phases. Notably, both the decapentaplegic (dpp) and cuticular protein 12 (cp 12) genes displayed a substantial marked decrease in expression levels in the copulatory organ of male mutants and the ovipositor of female mutants compared with the wild type. These findings highlight the importance of Sfabd‐B in genital tract patterning, providing a potential target for improving genetic control.
Factors Influencing Adherence to Phototherapy in Patients With Psoriasis: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Iborra‐Palau Elena Violeta , Garcia‐Redondo Elena , Alabau‐Dasi Raquel
Published: September 2024

Aims

Assess the level of adherence to phototherapy and determine what factors influence it.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Methods

This study included a convenience sampling of 72 patients with psoriasis undergoing phototherapy. Data were collected through a self‐reported questionnaire with sociodemographic variables, the Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Short Form Health Survey and the Dermatology Life Quality Index. Adherence to the treatment and its ending was measured through a session record.

Results

A small percentage of the participants demonstrated adequate adherence, and nearly half of them had low adherence. The factors statistically significant and with a negative impact on adherence were as follows: having a partner, experiencing anxiety or depression or using public transportation to get to the hospital. The probability of not adhering to the treatment increased when: patients found it difficult to attend therapy; perceiving their mental and physical health as being worse; experiencing anxiety or depression; having a diagnosed mental illness; being a man; or having had the sickness for an extended period of time.

Conclusion

This study determined the level of adherence to phototherapy and advanced our understanding of this variable. Women exhibited higher levels of adherence compared to men, although they reported worse perceived mental and physical health, and the disease had a higher impact on their life.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Informing phototherapy nurses on the factors that impact treatment adherence may help to increase the treatment compliance, which may improve psoriasis patients' clinical symptoms.

Impact

Increase the body of knowledge about the treatment that phototherapy nurses administer.

Reporting Method

STORBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
GhCASPL1 regulates secondary cell wall thickening in cotton fibers by stabilizing the cellulose synthase complex on the plasma membrane
Authors: Zhang Li , Wen Xingpeng , Chen Xin , Zhou Yifan , Wang Kun , Zhu Yuxian
Published: September 2024

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) fibers are elongated single cells that rapidly accumulate cellulose during secondary cell wall (SCW) thickening, which requires cellulose synthase complex (CSC) activity. Here, we describe the CSC‐interacting factor CASPARIAN STRIP MEMBRANE DOMAIN‐LIKE1 (GhCASPL1), which contributes to SCW thickening by influencing CSC stability on the plasma membrane. GhCASPL1 is preferentially expressed in fiber cells during SCW biosynthesis and encodes a MARVEL domain protein. The ghcaspl1 ghcaspl2 mutant exhibited reduced plant height and produced mature fibers with fewer natural twists, lower tensile strength, and a thinner SCW compared to the wild type. Similarly, the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) caspl1 caspl2 double mutant showed a lower cellulose content and thinner cell walls in the stem vasculature than the wild type but normal plant morphology. Introducing the cotton gene GhCASPL1 successfully restored the reduced cellulose content of the Arabidopsis caspl1 caspl2 mutant. Detergent treatments, ultracentrifugation assays, and enzymatic assays showed that the CSC in the ghcaspl1 ghcaspl2 double mutant showed reduced membrane binding and decreased enzyme activity compared to the wild type. GhCASPL1 binds strongly to phosphatidic acid (PA), which is present in much higher amounts in thickening fiber cells compared to ovules and leaves. Mutating the PA‐binding site in GhCASPL1 resulted in the loss of its colocalization with GhCesA8, and it failed to localize to the plasma membrane. PA may alter membrane structure to facilitate protein–protein interactions, suggesting that GhCASPL1 and PA collaboratively stabilize the CSC. Our findings shed light on CASPL functions and the molecular machinery behind SCW biosynthesis in cotton fibers.
Age‐ and size‐related changes in hind limb muscles in two baboon species (Papio anubis and P. papio)
Authors: Herrel Anthony , Theil Jean‐Christophe , Faure Léon , Druelle François , Berillon Gilles
Published: September 2024

Body size has an impact on all biological functions and analyzing how body size impacts functional traits such as locomotion is critical. Body size does not only vary across species but also during ontogeny. Indeed, juvenile animals are often at a competitive disadvantage due to their smaller absolute size. Consequently, understanding size‐ and age‐related changes in the locomotor system is critical for our understanding of adult phenotypes. Here, we address this question by exploring growth of the hind limb muscles in two species of closely related baboons that differ in their ecology, the olive baboon, Papio Anubis, the Guinea baboon, and Papio papio. To do so, we dissected 40 P. anubis and 10 P. papio and measured the mass and physiological cross‐sectional area (PCSA) of the hind limb muscles. Our results showed no sexual differences in size‐ or age‐related growth patterns, but did show differences between species. Whereas the scaling of muscle mass and PCSA was largely isometric in P. anubis, allometric scaling was more common in P. papio. Despite these differences between species, the knee extensors and external rotators at the knee scaled with positive allometry in both species highlighting their important role during adult locomotion. Although life‐history data for P. papio are scarce, we suggest that differences between species may be associated with differences in adult body size and age of locomotor independence between species.
Sufi Warriorism in Muslim Southeast Asia
Authors: Aljunied Khairudin
Published: September 2024

Sufism (tasawwuf) has been characterized in the extant literature as a pacifist strand in Islam that has shaped the landscapes of Muslim Southeast Asia (also known as the Malay World) since the last five hundred years. This article challenges such historiographical interpretation by examining the multifarious circumstances that motivated Sufis to invoke jihad (struggle) and perang sabil (holy war) in many junctures of the region's past in pursuit of imperial, ideological, material, and communal interests. Using a set of illustrative vignettes spanning a few centuries, this article positions “Sufi warriorism” as a useful concept for scholars to make sense of a variety of aggressive actions carried out by Sufis. It further proposes a typology that demonstrates how the three main expressions of Sufi warriorism—protagonist, protectionist, and purist—were instrumental in shaping the careers of states and societies in Muslim Southeast Asia.
A Kaleckian growth model with public capital and debt accumulation
Authors: Nishi Hiroshi , Okuma Kazuhiro
Published: September 2024

We develop a three‐dimensional Kaleckian growth model that incorporates public capital, labour productivity growth, and government debt accumulation, and present three main findings. First, a positive labour productivity growth rate and the Domar condition are essential for a stable, steady state. Second, a proactive fiscal stance promotes economic growth and capital composition. Finally, in the wage‐led growth regime, a pro‐labour income distribution boosts economic growth and capital composition while reducing the government debt ratio, whereas in the profit‐led growth regime, a pro‐capital income distribution increases economic growth, capital composition, and the government debt ratio.
Trends of bone mineral density and bone quality in a paediatric kidney transplant recipient: A case report
Authors: Aoyagi Jun , Kanai Takahiro , Ito Takane , Saito Takashi , Betsui Hiroyuki , Kurosaki Masanori , Maru Tomomi , Ono Marika , Tajima Toshihiro
Published: September 2024

Kidney transplant (KT) requires long‐term glucocorticoid (GC) treatment against acute and/or chronic rejection. Glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis (GIOP) is one of the major concerns in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Therefore, it is essential to accumulate GIOP data from paediatric KTRs to aid in their healthy growth. A serial observational study of bone strength was carried out in an 8‐year‐old girl with bilateral hypoplastic kidney who underwent ABO‐compatible living‐donor KT and GC treatment over 2 years. Bone strength was evaluated by bone mineral density (BMD) and serum bone turnover markers (BTMs), including serum alkaline phosphatase (S‐ALP), serum tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b (S‐TRACP‐5b), and serum undercarboxylated osteocalcin (S‐ucOC). All the levels of BTMs and BMD from 1 M to 4 M remained lower than the levels at 0 months (0 M: baseline). After gradual reduction of GC dose (4 M–24 M), S‐ALP levels increased from baseline and S‐TRACP‐5b levels remained lower than the baseline level, but BMD recovered to baseline and increased. The S‐ucOC levels did not increase from baseline. The patient's height growth velocity SDS was +3.99 for 23 months, and no fracture occurred during this observation period. A consistent, predominantly formative state of bone, which maintained higher S‐ALP levels and lower S‐TRACP‐5b levels compared to baseline, could contribute to increased BMD. In addition, no increase in S‐ucOC levels from baseline could be associated with no deterioration of bone strength. This case suggests that measurement of BMD and, S‐ALP, TRACP‐5b and ucOC could be useful for evaluating the trend on bone strength in a paediatric KTR.
Germline Variants in Patients Affected by Both Uveal and Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Johansson Peter A. , Palmer Jane M. , McGrath Lindsay , Warrier Sunil , Hamilton Hayley R. , Beckman Timothy , D'Mellow Matthew G. , Brooks Kelly M. , Glasson William , Hayward Nicholas K. , Pritchard Antonia L.
Published: September 2024

Uveal melanoma (UM) and nonacral cutaneous melanoma (CM) are distinct entities with varied genetic landscapes despite both arising from melanocytes. There are, however, similarities in that they most frequently affect people of European ancestry, and high penetrance germline variants in BAP1, POT1 and CDKN2A have been shown to predispose to both UM and CM. This study aims to further explore germline variants in patients affected by both UM and CM, shedding light on the underlying genetic mechanism causing these diseases. Using exome sequencing we analysed germline DNA samples from a cohort of 83 Australian patients diagnosed with both UM and CM. Eight (10%) patients were identified that carried pathogenic mutations in known melanoma predisposition genes POT1, MITF, OCA2, SLC45A2 and TYR. Three (4%) patients carried pathogenic variants in genes previously linked with other cancer syndromes (ATR, BRIP1 and MSH6) and another three cases carried monoallelic pathogenic variants in recessive cancer genes (xeroderma pigmentosum and Fanconi anaemia), indicating that reduced penetrance of phenotype in these individuals may contribute to the development of both UM and CM. These findings highlight the need for further studies characterising the role of these genes in melanoma susceptibility.
SEA Alleviates Hepatic Ischaemia–Reperfusion Injury by Promoting M2 Macrophage Polarisation
Authors: Xie Shudong , Guo Chen , Zhang Pengpeng , Li Junhui , Zhang Yu , Zhou Chen , Fan Xiaofei , Ming Yingzi
Published: September 2024

Hepatic ischaemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury is a frequent and nearly inevitable pathophysiological process without widely accepted effective therapy. Soluble egg antigen (SEA) of Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) is the main mediators capable of regulating immunological activities and has received increased attention in immune‐mediated diseases. But its role in hepatic I/R injury has not been well defined. This study aimed to elucidate whether SEA protects liver against hepatic I/R injury and explore underlying mechanism. After intraperitoneal injecting SEA three times a week for 4 weeks, mice underwent 70% hepatic I/R injury. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), haematoxylin–eosin (HE) and TdT‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labelling (TUNEL) staining were used to evaluate liver injury. The severity related to the inflammatory response was also investigated. Furthermore, immunofluorescence was used to detect macrophage polarisation. Compared with the hepatic I/R injury group, SEA pretreatment significantly alleviated hepatic I/R injury induced liver damage, apoptosis and inflammatory. Interestingly, SEA enhanced the polarisation of macrophages towards M2 macrophages in vivo. We are the first to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of S. japonicum SEA in a hepatic I/R injury model in mice. We provided the first direct evidence that SEA attenuated hepatic I/R injury by promoting M2 macrophage polarisation.
Generation of Devil Facial Tumour Cells Co‐Expressing MHC With CD80, CD86 or 41BBL to Enhance Tumour Immunogenicity
Authors: Ong Chrissie E. B. , Lyons A. Bruce , Woods Gregory M. , Flies Andrew S.
Published: September 2024

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules play an integral role in the adaptive immune response to transmissible cancers through tumour antigen presentation and recognition of allogeneic MHC molecules. The transmissible devil facial tumours 1 and 2 (DFT1 and DFT2) modulate MHC‐I antigen presentation to evade host immune responses and facilitate transmission of tumours cells to new Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) hosts. To enhance T‐cell‐driven tumour immunogenicity for vaccination and immunotherapy, DFT1 and DFT2 cells were co‐transfected with (i) NLRC5 for MHC‐I expression or CIITA for MHC‐I and MHC‐II expression, and (ii) a co‐stimulatory molecule, either CD80, CD86 or 41BBL. The co‐transfected DFT cells presented enhanced expression of MHC‐I and/or MHC‐II. As few devil‐specific monoclonal antibodies exist, we used recombinant CTLA4 and 41BB fused to a fluorescent protein to confirm expression of cell surface CD80, CD86 and 41BBL. The capacity for these cells to induce T‐cell responses including PD1 and IFNG expression was evaluated in in vitro co‐culture assays with captive devil peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Although PBMC viability had increased, there was no evidence of enhanced T‐cell activation. This system can be used to identify additional factors required to promote activation of naïve devil T‐cells in vitro.
An argument for moral evidentialism
Authors: Weber Marc Andree
Published: September 2024

Moral evidentialism is the view that one ought morally to believe only what is suggested by the evidence at one's disposal. As announced in the title, an argument for (a slightly restricted version of) this view is presented. The argument crucially relies on two specific links between belief and assertion, namely that one should not believe what one must not assert, and that one must not assert what is not suggested by the evidence at one's disposal. In both cases, the normativity involved is moral. The links are established, and it is shown how to deal with seemingly apparent counterexamples.
Foreknowledge and causal determinism
Authors: Fischer John Martin
Published: September 2024

I evaluate Patrick Todd's critique of the idea accepted by many, including (in contemporary philosophy) Nelson Pike and John Martin Fischer, that there can be non‐causal constraints on human actions (including basic actions). I suggest that Todd's critical reflections, although illuminating, are not persuasive. I defend non‐causal constraints in part by putting forward an interpretation of the intuitive idea of the fixity of the past following Carl Ginet: our freedom is the power to add to the given past.
Dissociation of Drosophila Evi‐Wg Complex Occurs Post Apical Internalization in the Maturing Acidic Endosomes
Authors: Sharma Satyam , Chaudhary Varun
Published: September 2024

Signaling pathways activated by secreted Wnt ligands play an essential role in tissue development and the progression of diseases, like cancer. Secretion of the lipid‐modified Wnt proteins is tightly regulated by a repertoire of intracellular factors. For instance, a membrane protein, Evi, interacts with the Wnt ligand in the ER, and it is essential for its further trafficking and release in the extracellular space. After dissociating from the Wnt, the Wnt‐unbound Evi is recycled back to the ER via Golgi. However, where in this trafficking path Wnt proteins dissociate from Evi remains unclear. Here, we have used the Drosophila wing epithelium to trace the route of the Evi‐Wg (Wnt homolog) complex leading up to their separation. In these polarized cells, Wg is first trafficked to the apical surface; however, the secretion of Wg is believed to occurs post‐internalization via recycling. Our results show that the Evi‐Wg complex is internalized from the apical surface and transported to the retromer‐positive endosomes. Furthermore, using antibodies that specifically label the Wnt‐unbound Evi, we show that Evi and Wg separation occurs post‐internalization in the acidic endosomes. These results refine our understanding of the polarized trafficking of Wg and highlight the importance of Wg endocytosis in its secondary secretion.
A descriptive ultrasonographic and histological evaluation of the eyes of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae)
Authors: Pavanelli Larissa , Ikeda Joana Midori Penalva , Colosio Adriana Castaldo , da Cunha Ramos Hernani Gomes , Montiani‐Ferreira Fabiano , Estrela‐Lima Alessandra , Silva Danielle Nascimento , Muramoto Caterina , Oriá Arianne Pontes
Published: September 2024

Objective

To describe morphological features of Megaptera novaeangliae eyes using ultrasonography and histology.

Animal Studied

A total of 21 globes from 19 M. novaeangliae were used for the study, including two animals with bilateral assessment. Nine stranded animals were found alive, 10 dead.

Procedures

Carcasses were classified according to decomposition state. Globes were assessed ultrasonographically, biometric measurements were taken and then the tissues were sectioned for histological analysis.

Results

Seventeen carcasses were classified as decomposition code 2 and two as code 3. Fifteen animals were calves, three juveniles and one adult, twelve males, and five females. The cornea was thinner in the center of the eye and thicker at the periphery. The lens had an oval shape. Fourteen animals showed a structure in the vitreous body which looked triangular and filamentous by ultrasonography and, histologically, originated in the central part of the optic nerve and extended to the posterior region of the lens, composed of connective tissue. The most common abnormalities found by ultrasonograph were retinal detachment (n = 13) and displacement of the lens into the vitreous (n = 4), along with alterations suggestive of hemorrhage, fibrin deposits, and increased echogenicity in the optic nerve (n = 2).

Conclusions

An intraocular structure not previously described in cetaceans was found in this investigation; its function remains unknown. Circulatory changes that were evident in the histopathological analysis may be due to the stranding process and raise the need to consider ophthalmic examinations before reintroducing stranded mysticetes.
Frequency of human platelet antigens (HPA) in the Greek population as deduced from the first registry of HPA‐typed blood donors
Authors: Kaltsounis Georgios , Boulomiti Evangelia , Papadopoulou Dimitroula , Stoimenis Dimitrios , Girtovitis Fotios , Hasapopoulou‐Matamis Eleni
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

Human platelet antigens (HPA) play a central role in foetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT), post‐transfusion purpura and some cases of platelet therapy refractoriness. The frequency distribution of HPA had not been studied in the Greek population before we started to create a registry of HPA‐typed apheresis platelet donors. The aim of this study was the determination of the frequency of various HPA in the Greek population, through the establishment of a registry of typed donors.

Materials and Methods

Here, we report on the first 1000 platelet donors of Greek origin who gave informed consent and were genotyped for 12 pairs of antithetical HPA by Single Specific Primer‐Polymerase Chain Reaction (SSP‐PCR), including HPA‐1, HPA‐3, HPA‐5 and HPA‐15. Antigen frequencies are reported, and allele frequencies were calculated and compared with other European and non‐European populations. Tested donors cover all ABO and Rhesus D antigen spectrum.

Results

Antigen and allele frequencies are very similar to other White populations. The frequency of HPA‐1bb is 2.9% in our study, and the frequency of HPA‐2b, HPA‐4b, HPA‐9b and HPA‐15b is also slightly higher than in other literature reports, while the frequency of HPA‐15b was found higher than that of HPA‐15a.

Conclusion

We report antigen and allele frequencies for a large array of clinically significant HPA for the first time in the Greek population. Frequencies are consistent with other European populations. This registry of HPA‐typed platelet donors, available to donate on demand, is an important asset for the treatment of FNAIT cases in Greece.
Assessing the feasibility of using municipal wastewater for aiding algal oil production: From a spatial coupling perspective
Authors: Chiu Yiwen , Brown Tyler , Lucett Erin , Worrell Kate
Published: September 2024

Competing over limited freshwater resources has been a major challenge in sustaining algal oil production. To tackle this issue, municipal wastewater (MWW) is proposed to aid algal oil production but with unknown feasibility. This study aims to investigate the change in algal oil production in response to MWW distribution. Using California as a case, the result shows that the oil production is only 34% of what was proposed in a former study, with 29% to 74% of wastewater being derived to meet 4% to 9% of refinery water demand. There is no substantial increase in oil production beyond a MWW distribution distance longer than 24 km. The analytical framework developed in this study requires minimal data in climate and topographic inputs and can be applied at a global level to identify the most promising areas where algal oil production can be sustained by municipal wastewater.
ВВЕДЕНИЕ В КУЛЬТУРУ IN VITRO БЕССМЕРТНИКА ПЕСЧАНОГО (HELICHRYSUM ARENARIUM (L.) MOENCH.)
Authors: Жарасова Д.Н. , Төлеп Н.Ә.
Published: September 2024

Сохранение генофонда растительного мира и введения в культуру редких видов, в том числе и реликтовых видов, является актуальной задачей современности. Эта задача осуществляется, с одной стороны, при помощи разработки методов учета и охраны редких и исчезающих видов растений, с другой — за счет отработки приемов выращивания этих растений in situ и in vitro.
Бессмертник песчаный Helichrysum arenarium (L.) Moench - ксерофитный и гелиофильный вид из семейства астровые (Asteraceae), находящийся на грани исчезновения. Бессмертник песчаный (другое название цмин) является фармакологически важным лекарственным растением, широко используется в официальной и народной медицине, внесен в отечественную фармакопею.
В качестве исходного материала для введения в культуру in vitro использовали семена бессмертника песчаного. Растительный материал промывали в мыльном растворе и проточной воде, обрабатывали 70 %- ным этанолом, затем стерилизовали в растворе отбеливателя «Белизна» (1:1) с последующим промыванием в стерильной воде, а затем в 10 %-ном растворе перекиси водорода (H2О2). Концентрацию стерилизующего раствора и время экспозиции подбирали экспериментально.
Метод культуры in vitro проводили на среде Woody Plant Medium (WPM), с уровнем рН 5,6–5,8. К стандартному минеральному составу среды были добавлены витамины. Дальнейшее культивирование проводили при 24-25 °C, световом периоде 16 ч и освещенности 3–4 тыс. люкс. Для поддержания пролиферирующих культур каждые 2–3 недели экспланты пересаживали на свежую питательную среду. Учет количества проросших семян проводили через каждые 7–10 дней в течение четырех месяцев культивирования на стеллажах световой. Оценка полученных чистых культур (стерильных) проводили по количеству выживших эксплантов.
Жизнеспособный асептический материал H. arenarium удалось получить после последовательной стерилизации в 70 % этаноле (1 мин), «Белизне» (1:1), (15 мин) и 10 % растворе перекиси водорода (7 мин). Признаки прорастания у семян появились через 1–2 недели культивирования, всхожесть семян составила 100 % .
Образовавшиеся при стерильном проращивании микропобеги были поделены на экспланты, а затем снова помещены на питательную среду WPM. Полученные микропобеги успешно укоренялись на безгормональной питательной среде.
Таким образом, получены асептические культуры H. arenarium и они обладали регенеративной способностью. Выявлено, что оптимальной питательной средой для введения в культуру in vitro являлась среда WPM. Оптимизированы условия стерилизации семян для получения жизнеспособных микропобегов.
ОПЫТ ОЦИФРОВКИ И ПУБЛИКАЦИИ ЧЕРЕЗ ПОРТАЛ GBIF ГЕРБАРИЯ QAR
Authors: Иванова Н.В. , Ишмуратова М.Ю. , Шашков М.П. , Гаврилькова Е.В. , Мусина Р.Т. , Тыржанова С.С. , Мадиева А.Н. , Рымжан T.М. , Тлеукенова С.У.
Published: September 2024

На современном этапе необходимость оцифровки данных о биоразнообразии и предоставление открытого доступа к ним не вызывает сомнений. Мировой опыт показывает, что размещение цифровой копии научной биологической коллекции в открытом доступе через тематические репозитории повышает ее сохранность, надежность и научное использование. Казахстан пока остается “белым пятном” на цифровой карте глобального биоразнообразия, не смотря на колоссальный объем материалов, накопленных поколениями исследователей его природы. В докладе представлен рабочий процесс по оцифровке гербария Карагандинского университета им. Е.А. Букетова QAR.
На подготовительном этапе гербарий был зарегистрирован в международном реестре Index Herbariorum и получил акроним QAR; университет зарегистрирован в глобальном репозитории цифровых данных о биоразнообразии GBIF; на сервере университета установлено программное обеспечение для публикации данных GBIF Integrated Publishing Toolkit. Затем на основе адаптированных материалов международного курса BioDATA было проведено обучение сотрудников методам оцифровки, стандартизации данных гербария и их публикации через портал GBIF.
На первом этапе все образцы были систематизированы по семействам и баркодированы, после чего специалистами кафедры ботаники выполнена проверка корректности определения. Затем выполняли оцифровку этикеток. Информацию с этикеток вносили вручную, полностью, на языке оригинала (казахском или русском). После внесения данных выполняли первичную проверку каждой записи. На следующем этапе выполняли географическую привязку образцов. Для образцов, не имеющих географических координат мест сборов, была выполнена ручная геопривязка методом “точка-радиус” по текстовым описаниям. Всего выполнено >450 ручных геопривязок. Кроме того, для каждого места сбора указывали по-возможности страну (в соответствии с границами ООН), область и административный район по актуальному состоянию. На заключительном этапе выполняли проверку и верификацию оцифрованных данных (data cleaning). Были исправлены технические ошибки. Имена коллекторов и даты сборов выверены согласно спикам студентов, обучавшихся на факультете, таксономические данные выверены согласно GBIF Backbone Taxonomy.
Итоговый набор данных доступен через портал GBIF (DOI: 10.15468/3asvbx) и включает 12548 записей. QAR - первый полностью оцифрованным гербарий, как в Казахстане, так и в странах Центральной Азии. В текущем году запланировано фотографирование и размещение на платформе GBIF изображений образцов в дополнение к имеющимся этикеточным данным.
ОПТИМИЗАЦИЯ ПРОТОКОЛА ВЫДЕЛЕНИЯ ДНК ИЗ ГЕРБАРНОГО МАТЕРИАЛА РАСТЕНИЙ
Authors: Исламова С.С. , Нұртаза А.С. , Саматова И.Н. , Какимжанова А.А.
Published: September 2024

В настоящее время количество гербарного материала свидетельствует о богатстве растительного мира. Данные, зафиксированные в гербариях, не устаревая со временем, остаются актуальными и служат основой для изучения биоразнообразия. За последние десятилетия использование ДНК-технологий в изучении гербарных материалов стало значимым прорывом, благодаря разработке новых методов выделения. Это позволяет проводить комплексные исследования по систематике, филогении и генетике растений. Однако, использование гербарного материала представляет собой сложный процесс, который зависит от методов сбора и обработки растений, проводимых при подготовке гербария. Важно учитывать, как физические, так и химические изменения, возраст гербарных образцов, которые играют значительную роль в сохранении ДНК.
В качестве объектов исследований использовали гербарные растительные материалы Ribes janczewskii, Ribes nigrum и Ribes aureum. Для оптимизации изучены четыре протокола выделения ДНК из гербарного материала, которые различались между собой составом лизирующего буфера. Образцы из сухого растительного материала выделены по протоколу 1 (контроль), в котором использовали набор реактивов Kit (Omega BIO-TEK E.Z.N.A. Plant DNA Kit). 
В результате сравнительного анализа оптимальным среди четырех протоколов выделения ДНК из гербарного растительного материала является протокол 2 (состав лизирующего буфера CTAB с 2% цетилтриметиламмония бромида, 20 мМ ЭДТА, 100 мМ Трис-HCl, 1,4 мМ NaCl). Хотя концентрация ДНК в образцах находилась в оптимальном диапазоне от 270 до 621 нг/мкл, соотношение А260/А230 указывало на возможное присутствие загрязнений полифенолами. В связи с этим, изучено воздействие 1% PVP на лизирующий буфер с целью улучшения чистоты ДНК. Также, проведена двойная экстракция хлороформом, после которой все образцы ДНК были выделены успешно.
Таким образом, оптимизирован эффективный метод выделения ДНК из гербарных растений. Использование лизирующего буфера CTAB с добавлением 2% цетилтриметиламмония бромида, 20 мМ ЭДТА, 100 мМ Трис-HCl, 1,4 мМ NaCl и 1% PVP позволило получить высококачественную ДНК из сложных образцов. Двойная очистка хлороформом позволила устранить белковые загрязнения ДНК без применения токсичного β-меркаптоэтанола.
Научное исследование проводится в рамках программы BR18574125 «Изучение современного состояния видового разнообразия сосудистых растений Казахстана с использованием современных методов ботаники, молекулярной генетики и биоинформатики» при финансовой поддержке Министерства науки и высшего образования Республики Казахстан.
ДНК-ШТРИХКОДИРОВАНИЕ ВИДОВ ЛЕКАРСТВЕННЫХ РАСТЕНИЙ ИЗ КОСТАНАЙСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ
Authors: Какимжанова А.А. , Нұртаза А.С. , Жаныбекова Ж.Т. , Пережогин Ю.В. , Бородулина О.В. , Кобланова С.А. , Абилева Г.А. , Муранец А.П. , Курлов С.И.
Published: September 2024

Казахстан славится своим разнообразием и богатством растений, особенно лекарственных растений и их использования. Различные формы лекарственных растений используются, независимо от того, свежие они или сушеные, для лечения болезней и недугов. Лекарственные растения являются ценными источниками растительных продуктов во всем мире, и они исчезают с большой скоростью. Лекарственные растения представляют собой практически неисчерпаемый источник для поиска новых физиологически активных веществ, пригодных для медицинского использования. Анализ видового разнообразия Казахстана и возможности их использования в традиционной и нетрадиционной медицине показал, что лекарственные сосудистые растения составляют 1406 видов (26%), относящихся к 612 родам и 134 семействам (Gemejiyeva N.G., Grudzinskaya L.M., 2018).
Штрихкодирование ДНК является ценным инструментом для молекулярной идентификации лекарственных растений, которая обеспечивает безопасность и эффективность растительного сырья, имеющего терапевтическое значение. Используя морфологические признаки родов с близкородственными видами определение видов часто бывает затруднено.
Для штрих-кодирования ДНК использовали гербарный и свежий растительный материал лекарственных растений, собранных в 2023 году по территории Костанайской области (Казахстан). Наибольшее число видов относится к семейству Asteraceae Dumort, Rosaceae Juss; Fabaceae Lindl; Ranunculaceae Juss; Lamiaceae Martinov.
Для идентификации сформирована ДНК коллекция из 120 образцов лекарственных растений. В результате исследований проанализированы три идентифицированные области штрихкодирования ДНК (ITS2, matK и rbcL) 61 видов лекарственных растений, которые были собраны по Костанайской области. В связи с тем, что последовательность маркеров одного локуса не всегда может предоставить достаточную информацию использовали комбинацию маркеров ITS2, matK и rbcL для идентификации растений.
В нашем анализе получено 121 последовательностей штрихкодирования ДНК и выявлены новые для изученных видов лекарственных растений Костанайской области. Мы рекомендуем rbcL, matK и ITS2 для идентификации лекарственных растений. В результате были отсеквенированы нуклеотидные последовательности лекарственных растений и депонированы в NCBI 94 последовательности по маркерам ITS2, matK и rbcL. Эти результаты будут полезны для сохранения лекарственных растений и их национальное использование.
Научное исследование проводится в рамках программы BR18574125 при финансовой поддержке Министерства науки и высшего образования Республики Казахстан.
ИДЕНТИФИКАЦИЯ РАСТЕНИЙ СЕМЕЙСТВА FABACEAE ПРИ ПОМОЩИ МЕТОДОВ МОЛЕКУЛЯРНОГО БАРКОДИРОВАНИЯ
Authors: Қали Б.Р. , Ахметоллаева А.С. , Сутула М.Ю. , Манабаева Ш.А.
Published: September 2024

Семейство Fabaceae включает более 550 родов и 13 000 видов, распространенных по различным регионам мира, что делает его одним из крупнейших семейств растений на планете. В Казахстане отмечается присутствие 42 родов и приблизительно 650 видов этого семейства. Благодаря высокому содержанию белка бобовые культуры, такие как бобы, фасоль, соя, горох, а также кормовые растения, включая клевер, люцерну, эспарцет и донник, нашли широкое применение в пищевой и кормовой промышленности. Бобовые также активно используются в промышленности для производства биоразлагаемых материалов, масел, красителей и биодизельного топлива.
ДНК-баркодирование представляет собой полезный метод для идентификации видов с использованием стандартизированных ДНК-маркеров. Этот метод эффективно применяется для инвентаризации растительного видового разнообразия, однако идентификация некоторых видов семейства Fabaceae может быть затруднена из-за их морфологической схожести и изменчивости. Таким образом, важными являются усилия по сохранению этого разнообразия для предотвращения его дальнейшего сокращения. Это зависит от точности идентификации видов, которая может быть достигнута как с помощью традиционных таксономических методов, так и молекулярных подходов. Многие исследователи отмечают неэффективность морфологической идентификации, особенно в сложных таксономических группах, таких как Fabaceae.
Для оценки генетического разнообразия четырнадцати видов семейства Fabaceae были проведены анализы с использованием трех пар праймеров. Растительный материал был собран в Карагандинской области. Для выделения ДНК использовался метод СTAB. В работе были использованы два хлоропластных маркера (matK, rbcL) и один ядерный маркер (ITS). Полученные последовательности были проанализированы с использованием программного обеспечения Vector NTI и MEGA11. Последовательности были зарегистрированы в базе данных GenBank NCBI, а ваучерные образцы хранятся в гербарии Национального центра биотехнологии в Астане, Казахстан.
Наше исследование демонстрирует эффективность использования ДНК-баркодирования для идентификации видов в семействе Fabaceae. Нуклеотидные последовательности по молекулярно-генетическим маркерам ITS, rbcL и matK были проанализированы методом Maximum Likelihood. Оценены основные показатели генетического разнообразия, включая дивергенцию нуклеотидов, долю консервативных, полиморфных и сегрегирующих участков генома. Все исследованные ДНК-баркоды успешно идентифицировали виды на уровне рода с высокой точностью. Наши результаты подчеркивают значимость выбора молекулярных маркеров с учетом их изменчивости для достижения точности филогенетического анализа. Мы продемонстрировали воспроизводимость результатов секвенирования и показали, что ядерные последовательности ITS обеспечивают лучшую поддержку, чем пластидные маркеры matK и rbcL, для точной идентификации на уровне вида. Для сохранения биологического разнообразия семейства Fabaceae в Казахстане необходимы дальнейшие детальные популяционные исследования.
Generalized Two-Point Visual Control Model of Human Steering for Accurate State Estimation
Authors: Mai Rene E. , Sears Katherine , Roessling Grace , Julius Agung , Mishra Sandipan
Published: September 2024

We derive and validate a generalization of the two-point visual control model, an accepted cognitive science model for human steering behavior. The generalized model is needed as current steering models are either insufficiently accurate or too complex for online state estimation. We demonstrate that the generalized model replicates specific human steering behavior with high precision (85% reduction in modeling error) and integrate this model into a human-as-advisor framework where human steering inputs are used for state estimation. As a benchmark study, we use this framework to decipher ambiguous lane markings represented by biased lateral position measurements. We demonstrate that, with the generalized model, the state estimator can accurately estimate the true vehicle state, providing lateral state estimates with under 0.15 m error across participants. However, without the generalized model, the estimator cannot accurately estimate the vehicle’s lateral state.