bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moving beyond simplistic representations of land use in conservation
Authors: Kuemmerle Tobias
Published: September 2024

Land use is both a major cause of the biodiversity crises and a potential solution to it. Decisions about land use are made in complex social–ecological systems, yet conservation research, policy, and practice often neglect the diverse and dynamic nature of land use. A deeper integration of land system science and conservation science provides major opportunities in this context, through a transfer of concepts, data, and methodologies. Specifically, a closer exchange between land‐use data developers and users will enable common terminology and better data use, allowing to move beyond coarse land‐cover representations of land use. Similarly, archetyping and regionalization approaches can help to embrace, rather than oversimplify, the diversity of land‐use actors and practices. Finally, systematically linking land‐use actors to portfolios of pressures on biodiversity, beyond their direct impact on habitat, can better represent and map co‐occurring and interacting threats. Together, this will enable conservation policymakers and planners to recognize the often‐complex and wicked nature of conservation challenges related to land, allowing for more context‐specific conservation policymaking and planning, and more targeted conservation interventions.
The Consequences of Peirce's Theory of Agential Ideas for Qualitative Research
Authors: Pratt Alexander B.
Published: September 2024

The recent shift in social science research toward philosophies of the more‐than‐human has pushed many scholars to question their understanding of units of analysis and agency. While many engage with agencies of the material, few have attempted to address what might be called the agency of ideas. Here, Alexander Pratt argues that engaging with the agency of ideas is particularly important when dealing with issues like racism, which is the focus of this article. He believes that one reason for the lack of such engagement is the seemingly undefined nature of what we might think of as ideas. In this article, Pratt offers a conception of agential ideas developed through his reading of the metaphysics of Charles S. Peirce and those who have utilized Peirce's theories. This conception will provide an entry point for posthuman researchers to incorporate the protean nature of ideas into their own research methodologies.
Taxonomic and functional diversity of foliage‐dwelling ants in conventional and organic agroecosystems in southern Brazil: A landscape perspective
Authors: Carvalho Daniel A. , Barbosa Gabriel G. , Kappes Bruna B. , Dröse William , Ibarra‐Issassi Javier , Sendoya Sebastian F.
Published: September 2024

In modern landscapes, understanding how land use and land cover, specifically agriculture, affect biodiversity and ecological functions is essential for conservation. According to Brazilian law, agroecosystems must include areas designated for biodiversity conservation called Legal Reserves.

We evaluated the taxonomic and functional diversity of foliage‐dwelling ants in Legal Reserves of agroecosystems in the south of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. We aimed to understand how land use and land cover at different landscape scales affect the ant fauna.

We sampled ant communities in organic and conventional agroecosystems using passive and active sampling methods (arboreal pitfall traps and active sample, respectively). For the analysis of functional diversity, we measured morphological attributes related to the ecological strategies of ants, such as perception of visual cues, foraging and resource acquisition. We characterized the landscape by visual interpretation of high‐resolution satellite imagery within a 100 m, 500 m and 1 km radius of the sampling areas.

We did not identify any effects of cultivation systems on ant fauna. However, we found that landscape characteristics, such as the proportion of natural forest within 100 m, positively affected functional richness. Additionally, within 500 m, natural forest coverage, along with the proportion of cultivation, positively influenced ant incidence.

We emphasize the function of Legal Reserves around farms, of serving as support to maintain the presence of ants and the diversity of ecological functions performed by these organisms. We also emphasize that new studies in the region should investigate how a higher homogenization of cultures and cultivation systems, including other phyto‐physiognomies, influence the myrmecofauna of these environments.
Translanguaging decoloniality in a divided island as post‐colonial pedagogic praxis: Cyprus and cultural subversions
Authors: Christou Anastasia , Karayianni Christiana
Published: September 2024

As a political and pedagogic project, decolonisation involves the deconstruction of dominant Eurocentric forms of knowledge production, and the pluralisation of the knowledge field. But, in the case of a divided Cyprus, such practices and structures take on different meanings, within and beyond different contexts. In this article we link feminisms of resistance to curricular practices as a decolonial pathway to erasure of epistemic and gendered violence. If we are to suggest a collective project of decolonisation of higher education in Cyprus, we initially need to deconstruct conceptual frameworks of social justice through decolonising pedagogic practices. We consider ‘translanguaging decoloniality’ as one such avenue to pedagogic praxis through enabling cultural subversions, storytelling in the curriculum, and re‐framing/re‐telling narratives of the nation.
Bioactive compounds and digestible starch variability of rice, maize, green gram, and soy grains with different levels of germination
Authors: Gunathunga Chamodi , Senanayake Suraji , Jayasinghe Madhura , Brennan Charles Stephan , Truong Tuyen , Marapana Upul , Chandrapala Jayani
Published: September 2024

Germination is a sustainable and economical process that can enhance the bioactivities of commonly consumed cereal and pulses, contributing to healthier diets. Its effectiveness in increasing bioactives depends on the germination conditions. This study examined the impact of varying germination periods (2, 4, 6, and 8 days) following 12 h of steeping on rice, maize, green gram, and soy, focusing on key bioactive compounds, including total polyphenols, flavonoids, and total digestible starch. Cereal and pulses germinated for eight days demonstrated a significantly higher (P < 0.05) total polyphenol and flavonoid content along with elevated antioxidant activity. Antioxidant activity strongly correlated to increased total polyphenol and flavonoid levels throughout the extended germination period. Moreover, the total digestible starch content (TDS) in rice, maize, and soy increased significantly (P < 0.05) because of the hydrolysis of starch molecules, while green gram showed twofold decrease in TDS, indicating the impact of germination on TDS content may differ across the type of cereal and pules. Using locally grown Sri Lankan grain varieties, such as rice, maize,green gram,and soy, this study fills the gap in existing database on the investigation of bioactive compounds and total digestible starch content, exploring the potential of germination of cereal and pulses to use in nutritionally rich products in the food and agriculture industry with a focus on sustainable food systems and healthier eating habits.
Effects of additives (NaCl, citric acid, and ethanol) on the cooking quality and sensory quality of vermicelli produced from freeze–thaw‐dehydrated whole potato powder
Authors: Chen Ziqi , Zhang Tingting , Liu Qiannan , Liu Wei , Zhao Ruixuan , Hu Honghai
Published: September 2024

To conform to the trend of whole‐food diets in recent years, whole potato powder has been used for the processing of extruded vermicelli. The effects of different additives, such as NaCl, citric acid and ethanol, on the cooking quality and sensory quality of whole potato vermicelli obtained via twin‐screw extrusion were investigated. The colour, gelatinisation properties, water absorption, cooking loss, texture profile analysis, scanning electron microscopy analysis and correlation analysis of the whole potato vermicelli were determined and discussed. The brightness of the whole potato vermicelli increased from 52.0 to 55.4 at 1% NaCl addition and increased from 52.0 to 54.9 at 0.8% citric acid addition, and the water absorption of the whole potato vermicelli increased from 83.1% to 159.1% at 0.4% citric acid addition and increased from 83.1% to 258.9% at 8% ethanol addition. The cooking loss of the whole potato vermicelli decreased from 5.3% to 5.1% at 8% ethanol addition, indicating that ethanol could improve the cooking quality of whole potato vermicelli. The texture properties of the whole potato vermicelli decreased with the addition of ethanol, and the ΔH of the whole potato vermicelli decreased from 3.7 to 1.8 J g−1 at 0.8% citric acid addition and decreased from 3.7 to 1.5 J g−1 at 8% ethanol addition, respectively. Moreover, the addition of ethanol was negatively correlated with the max force, break distance, stretching work, hardness, adhesiveness and chewiness of the whole potato vermicelli. The addition of NaCl was positively correlated with the peak gelatinisation temperature. All three additives affected the microstructure of the whole potato vermicelli, including roughening the cross section and increasing the number of pores. In this study, NaCl improved the gelatinisation properties of whole potato vermicelli, citric acid and ethanol improved the water absorption of the whole potato vermicelli, and citric acid improved the anti‐browning effects of the whole potato vermicelli.
An update of the Couple Adaptation to Traumatic Stress Model: Systematic research synthesis of the association between secondary trauma survivor functioning and couple functioning
Authors: Smedley Daniel K. , Nelson Goff Briana S.
Published: September 2024

Systemic theories addressing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in couples postulate associations between primary trauma survivor functioning, secondary trauma survivor functioning, and couple functioning. However, there is a lack of examination of the association between secondary trauma survivor functioning and couple functioning, which has clinical implications. Objectives of this study include informing clinicians of the evidence base for these associations and providing a synthesized review of research on PTSD in couples to inform future research. A systematic research synthesis screening 150 articles from three databases resulted in the inclusion of 15 quantitative articles to examine the quality of the available research addressing the association between secondary trauma survivor functioning and couple functioning. Correlation matrices in all studies and other partial evidence supported the current theory positing the relevance of secondary traumatic stress in interpersonal functioning for couples. Discussion includes the need for increased quality and diversity of systemic trauma research and treatment for couples.
Use of Melinex film for flat embedding tissue sections in LR White
Authors: von Ruhland C. J.
Published: September 2024

Tissue slices can undergo distortions during processing into resin for light and electron microscopy as a result of differential shrinkage of the various tissue components, and this may necessitate removal of a considerable amount of material from the final resin‐embedded tissue block to ensure production of complete sections of the sample. To mitigate this problem, a number of techniques have been devised that ensure the sample is held flat during the final curing/polymerisation of the resin. For embedding in acrylic resins, oxygen must be excluded as it inhibits polymerisation, and methods devised for epoxy resin embedding are generally unsuitable. The method describes the preparation and use of air‐tight flat‐embedding chambers prepared from Melinex film and provides an inexpensive, technically simpler, and versatile alternative to chambers formed from either Thermanox coverslips or Aclar films that have previously been advocated for such purposes.

Lay description: Tissue slices can undergo distortions during processing into resin for light and electron microscopy as a result of differential shrinkage of the various tissue components. Such distortions may necessitate removal of a considerable amount of material to ensure production of complete sections of the sample. For embedding in acrylic resins, oxygen must be excluded as it inhibits polymerisation, and methods devised for epoxy resin flat‐embedding are generally unsuitable. Air‐tight flat‐embedding chambers prepared from either Thermanox coverslips, or a combination of PTFE‐coated glass slides, polycarbonate film gaskets, and Aclar film have been advocated for such purposes. Thermanox coverslips are expensive and limited in size to 22 mm × 60 mm, and the alternative method is technically complicated. Melinex film is commercially available as 210 mm × 297 mm sheets and is approximately 1/20th the price of Thermanox and less than half the price of Aclar film. The method describes the preparation and use of embedding chambers made from Melinex film, glass slides and double‐sided adhesive tape as a technically simpler, inexpensive and versatile alternative to both Thermanox coverslips and the Aclar film method.
Navigating Laser Treatments for Scars: The Physical and Emotional Journey
Authors: Haykal Diala , Cartier Hugues , Boixeda Pablo
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The physical and emotional burden that scars impose on people's lives has been the concern of dermatological research for quite some time. Usually, the available literature on the topic draws a grim image containing solely dry medical facts. The present study deviates from this approach by reflecting a solution‐centered study which has also touched on the quotidian life of an average person. The overall intention of the present experiment was to inspect how a holistic approach to scars in dermatology can be crucial for the patient's quality of life.

Methods

This pilot study compiles data collected through the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) from the same set of patients within the span of a year. Sixty patients with diverse scar profiles were asked to rate POSAS and DLQI in every session. A combination of EBDs was used based on the scar examination. Student's t‐test was run to validate the data.

Results

The evaluations by POSAS and DLQI indicate significant improvement in the physical aspect of the scar as well as the patient quality of life a year after the first treatment. According to mean values collected from POSAS, there is a direct correlation between average patient evaluations and physician assessments. Thus, EBDs prove to be efficient in improving the QoL of scar patient. The 20 patients who had reported mild side effects after treatments recovered fully within a few days after the sessions. No patient reported severe side effects.

Discussion

Apart from the physical indications that scars bring about into patients' lives, the psychological repercussions caused by scars have a major effect on the QoL of the patients. These repercussions can be divided into individual and social. At the individual level, scars have a profoundly negative effect on the image of the self which leads to several different psychological complications by time. At the social level, scars affect the radius of physical movement besides the quality of the patient's activities. Therefore, EBDs as effective treatment methods can improve itchiness, pain, and so forth, of the patient, and can also improve the psychological aspect.

Conclusion

All in all, the present study aims to produce a more panoramic perspective on the concern of scars in the field of dermatology, centering around EBDs as a solution for improving scar patient QoL. With a focus on the efficacy of EBDs in the scar treatment, and with reference to studies on the topic, it is safe to assume that the earlier the scar treatment initiates, the better the outcomes. Departing from this point, in the future of cosmetic dermatology, prepping the skin by EBD treatments before surgery is imaginable.
Energy‐Based Device Management of Nodular Reaction Following Poly‐D, L‐Lactic Acid Injection for Tear Trough Rejuvenation
Authors: Seo Suk Bae , Wan Jovian , Yi Kyu‐Ho
Published: September 2024

Background

Poly‐D,L‐lactic acid (PDLLA) is used for tear trough rejuvenation but can cause complications like nodular reactions. This report describes using a radiofrequency device to manage these nodules.

Case Presentation

A 42‐year‐old woman developed firm, non‐inflammatory nodules 3 weeks after receiving PDLLA (Juvelook) injections in the tear trough area. The nodules were firm and not associated with erythema or tenderness.

Intervention

The monopolar radiofrequency device was used directly on the nodules with 150 shots at an energy level 115 J, 28.75 J/cm². The treatment resulted in complete resolution of the nodules within 24 hours.

Results

The radiofrequency treatment effectively resolved the nodular reaction without recurrence, highlighting the device's compatibility with the unique structure of Juvelook's PDLLA.

Conclusion

Radiofrequency therapy is effective for managing nodular reactions following PDLLA injections. Further research is needed to optimise protocols and improve the safety of biostimulator treatments in cosmetic procedures.
Safety and Efficacy of an Injectable Solution Enriched With Sodium Hyaluronate, Amino Acids, and Peptides in Relation to Superficial Facial Connective Tissues (Dermis and Retinacular Cutis)
Authors: Shelemba Evgeniya , Olshanska Olha , Benoit Anne Gaelle , Rumyantseva Elena
Published: September 2024

Background

Skin aging research often focuses on the dermis, overlooking the significance of the retinacular cutis (RC) in aging. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy, safety, and effect of an injectable solution containing hyaluronic acid, amino acids, and peptides, on facial sagging and laxity by targeting the RC.

Methods

This single‐center observational study recruited 28 female volunteers aged 25–65 years. The participants received four monthly injections of the studied solution. Objective measures included skin hydration, elasticity, color, thickness, collagen density evaluated via DermaLab Combo and high‐resolution ultrasound imaging. Subjective measures included participant satisfaction evaluated using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Adverse effects were monitored throughout the study period.

Results

Significant improvements were observed in skin hydration, elasticity, and collagen density after treatment. Hydration increased by 25.9% at T1 (30 days after last session), sustaining a 15.9% increase at T2 (120 days after last session). Elasticity improved by 29.2% at T1 and 20.7% at T2. Collagen density increased by 20.27% at T1 and 16.71% at T2. Self‐reported GAIS scores showed consistent increases. Adverse effects were minimal and included only transient ecchymosis and mild pain.

Conclusion

Injections of the solution had a substantial hydrating effect, enhanced elasticity, and increased collagen density in the RC and dermis. Results persisted at the 120‐day follow‐up, indicating sustained benefits. Hence, this injectable solution may offer a safe and effective non‐invasive treatment option for improving skin laxity and sagging, targeting the RC and other deep connective tissue such as retaining ligaments.
Nanopatterns on silica scales of Mallomonas (Chrysophyceae, Stramenopiles): Unraveling UV resistance potential and diverse response to UVA and UVB radiation
Authors: Nemcova Yvonne , Knotek Petr , Jadrná Iva , Černajová Ivana , Škaloud Pavel
Published: September 2024

Mallomonas thrive primarily in freshwaters and dominate plankton communities, especially in oligotrophic waters. The cells have a siliceous cell covering of regularly arranged scales. Despite their ecological importance, the intricate structure and evolutionary significance of their silica scales are still unexplored. We investigated the nanopatterns on the scales and hypothesized that they may play a role in UV shielding. UVA and UVB exposure experiments were performed with 20 Mallomonas species, categorized into four groups based on the nanopattern of the scales (plain‐scaled, meshed, striated, and papilliferous group); a fifth group consisted of the species that have extremely thick, robust scales regardless of the nanopattern. We revealed that thick scales were associated with enhanced UVB resistance, suggesting a protective role. No significant differences in UVA response were observed among the groups, except for the meshed group, which showed lower resistance, likely due to the less regular pattern on the shield. In conclusion, the scale case, composed of sufficiently silicified scales, provides effective UV protection in freshwater environments, regardless of the particular nanopattern. In increased UVB radiation, the thickness of the scales plays role. Contrary to expectations, cell size and phylogeny do not strongly predict UV resistance. The study highlights the diverse UV responses of Mallomonas, but further studies are needed to understand the role of scales/nanopatterns in the ecological adaptations of the species.
Ecological investigations of giant Phaeocystis colonies in Viet Nam: II. Photosynthesis—irradiance characteristics and nitrogen uptake
Authors: Meng Rui , Smith Walker O. , Cao Ruobing , Doan‐Nhu Hai , Nguyen‐Ngoc Lam
Published: September 2024

Phaeocystis globosa is a marine phytoplankton species that forms deleterious blooms in temperate and tropical waters. In some locations, “giant” colonies form, although the controls on its size are unknown. During a “giant” colony bloom, measurements were completed to characterize photosynthesis–irradiance relationships, nitrogen uptake kinetics, and nitrogen–irradiance relationships of P. globosa colonies to understand its growth characteristics and their relationship to colony size. The photosynthetic capacity (Fv/Fm) varied from 0.65 to 0.68 among colony sizes ranging from 3.0 to 11.0 mm, indicating that all colonial cells were physiologically robust. The maximum chl a‐specific photosynthetic rates () ranged from 0.89 to 1.92 μg C · μg−1 chl · h−1, were maximal in the mid‐sized colonies (5.5–6.5 mm) and decreased with size. The relatively low values may be related to the high cellular chl a of colonial cells and their acclimation to in situ irradiance. Nitrate and values were greater than those of ammonium, although N affinity was greater for ammonium. No differences in light‐limited rates in either nitrate or ammonium uptake among colony sizes were observed, and no dark uptake occurred. Both ammonium and nitrate uptake showed a saturation response as a function of irradiance. While the driving forces for the formation of giant colonies remain unknown, their impacts on coastal systems are substantial and a further assessment of their growth is warranted.
Do Anglo‐Saxon directors affect leverage?
Authors: Volonté Christophe
Published: September 2024

We investigate the impact of Anglo‐Saxon directors on leverage of Swiss listed companies. Higher leverage increases a company's risk profile, and individuals with an Anglo‐Saxon cultural background are considered less risk averse than others. Using a sample of 1556 firm‐year observations from 2005 to 2015, we find empirical evidence supporting our hypothesis that Anglo‐Saxon directors increase leverage. The result is robust to the inclusion of a battery of control variables, fixed effects, and instrumental variable estimation.
Teaching the Critical Comparative Study of Religion as Engaged Global Citizenship
Authors: Rondolino Massimo A.
Published: September 2024

In this article, I make a case for bridging what I see as the competing demands faced by teacher‐scholars in higher education: our institutional orientations, our students' motivations, and our aspirations as scholars and educators. I contend that teaching about religion, broadly understood, regardless of theoretical and methodological orientation (be it within religious studies, for example, or theology, or philosophy of religion, or ethics, etc.) can be an impactful experience in the practice and cultivation of engaged global citizenship. Drawing from my own courses, and my use of the Reacting to the Past (RTTP) roleplay pedagogy, I show how a critically self‐aware practice is foundational to this goal, and how an integrated cross‐cultural comparative and collaborative method provides a powerful tool to accomplish this in dynamic and equitable ways.
The effect of soaring housing prices on the quality of export products: Evidence from China
Authors: Jin Yousen , Mao Haitao , Tang Sam Hak Kan
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the impact of rising housing prices on the quality of export products. When housing prices increase, the collateral value of firms can rise, easing financial constraints and potentially boosting investment in innovation and product quality. However, higher housing prices can also lead firms to divert investments from their core business operations to the housing sector, where returns are relatively higher. This diversion can negatively affect product quality. We empirically investigate this relationship using Chinese firm‐level data, matched with customs and city‐level data from 2000 to 2013. Our results show that during China's housing boom, rising housing prices significantly reduced the quality of export products. The negative impact of speculative investment in the housing sector outweighed the positive effects of eased credit constraints. Firms with real estate investments and industries with low external financial dependence were more affected by rising housing prices. Additionally, government restrictions on home purchases helped mitigate the negative impact of rising housing prices on export product quality.
НАРАБОТКА КОЗЬЕГО ХИМОЗИНА В УСЛОВИЯХ ГЛУБИННОЙ ФЕРМЕНТАЦИИ В КЛЕТКАХ P. PASTORIS
Authors: Әуез М. , Акишев Ж. , Турсунбекова А. , Хасенов Б.
Published: September 2024

Химозин является основным ферментом, обладающим высокой степени специфичности по отношению к κ-казеину и вследствие этого используемым в сыродельной промышленности. В данной работе представлены результаты по экспрессии гена козьего прохимозина в дрожжах Pichia pastoris и изучении молокосвертывающей активности рекомбинантного козьего химозина. Ген козьего прохимозина был интегрирован в хромосомную ДНК дрожжей и путем метанольной индукции осуществлена секреция прохимозина в культуру дрожжей.
Биоинформатический анализ аминокислотной последовательности козьего прохимозина показал, что белок имеет один возможный сайт N-гликозилирования: Asp333-His334-Ser335. Молекулярная масса рекомбинантного козьего химозина, полученного в дрожжах определена методом электрофореза в ДСН-полиакриламидном геле, составила 42 ± 1 кДа. Из данных следует, что N-гликозилирование увеличивает молекулярную массу примерно на 3 кДа, поскольку.предполагаемая молекулярная масса негликозилированного рекомбинантного химозина B из С. hircus составляет 38,6 кДа.
Чтобы проверить возможности масштабирования производства рекомбинантного химозина C. hircus, в биореакторе объемом 10 л культивировали P. pastoris трансформированный клон для ферментации дрожжевого штамма. Было обнаружено, что рост биомассы хорошо коррелирует с выходом ферментной активности. Использование оптимальных условий роста, среды роста YPD+CAS+BMz (10 г/л) позволило достичь 55 г массы сухих клеток после 96 ч роста штамма P. pastoris GS115/pPICZαA/CHproCYMB. Продукция белка началась с после 24 ч культивирования и достигло 145 Ед/мл. Максимальная скорость производства фермента 12 150 Ед/ч наблюдалась на третий день. После 96 часов роста не наблюдалось дальнейшего роста выработки химозина, что совпало с началом стационарной фазы роста.
После активации химозин очищали методом последовательной анионной и катионообменной хроматографии. Биохимическое изучение показало, что снижение молокосвертывающей активности фермента наблюдалось при повышении рН. Наибольшая активность рекомбинантного козьего химозина проявлялась при 60°С и рН 4,5-5,0 и составила 7680 ± 0,32 и 8727 ± 0,39 для коровьего и козьего молока, соответственно. Общая протеолитическая активность фермента составила 7769,2±0,38 Ед/мг. Полученные результаты позволяют предположить, что рекомбинантный козий химозин может быть использован в сыродельческой промышленности и имеет хорошие перспективы для практического применения при получении сыра из козьего молока.
EXPLORING THE ROLE OF NGS IN GENETIC PROFILING FOR UNDERSTANDING NON-VIOLENT SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH IN ASTANA
Authors: Shakhmarova T. , Chamoieva A. , Mirmanova Zh. , Zhalbinova M. , Rakhimova S. , Kozhamkulov U. , Akilzhanova G. , Kairov U. , Akilzhanov K. , Polyakova T. , Imambayeva N. , Zhakupova T. , Sarbassov D. , Akilzhanova A.
Published: September 2024

Sudden cardiac death is an unexpected and often unpredictable event that can have serious consequences for the health and lives of individuals not only in middle age but also in young individuals. Mutations, particularly in genes associated with cardiovascular disease, may play a main role in the development of such events, but their exact role and impact require detailed study and prevention of the development of new mutations by using the Next-generation sequencing (NGS).
To evaluate the diagnostic importance of next-generation sequencing (NGS) by using our developed cardiogenetic panel in molecular autopsy in sudden non-violent deaths.
A prospective study was conducted from 2018 to 2023 focusing of young individuals aged 18 to 45 years resigning in Astana who died of non-violent CVD. The data were analyzed from RSCE "Forensic Expertise Centre of the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Kazakhstan" "Research Institute of Forensic Expertise" in Astana, blood samples were obtained from SCD victims for further DNA extraction. We implemented a next-generation sequencing (NGS) using the customized panel to target enrichment of coding sequences of 96 candidate genes in molecular autopsies of young adults who died of SCD. All identified genetic variants were classified according to ACMG guidelines in cases with non-diagnostic and diagnostic cardiac abnormalities (ischemic heart disease postmortem).
Targeted sequencing and stepwise filtering of annotated variants identified 251 unique variants in 86 genes out of 96 in the entire group of cases studied. In patients with SCD with ischemic changes in the heart postmortem, the most frequent mutations were identified in the TTN, MYBPC3, LAMA2, MYH6 and GAA genes. Pathogenic variants in the genes of ion channels KCNQ1, KCNJ2, SCN5A, RYR2 were detected in individuals with non-diagnostic structural anomalies of the heart. Genetic screening of individuals who died of SCD identified variants with likely pathogenic functional effects with high frequency in 63% and 35% of SCD cases with non-diagnostic and diagnostic cardiac abnormalities, respectively, showing the high diagnostic value of genetic screening using a panel of genes for targeted NGS.
Data from our prospective study have shown that genetic testing using NGS in young Astana victims with SCD results in a significant number of mutations, consequently, may allow genetic counselling of relatives to prevent SCD due to coronary heart disease and arrhythmias and may support differential diagnosis postmortem.
Supported by Committee of Science of the of Science and Higher Education of Republic of Kazakhstan (AP1486990) and Nazarbayev University CRP(211123CRP1608).
TRANSCRIPTOME PROFILING AND EXAMINATION OF INDIVIDUALS DIAGNOSED WITH ESOPHAGEAL SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA ORIGINATING FROM KAZAKHSTAN
Authors: Sharip A. , Rakhimova S. , Molkenov A. , Seisenova A. , Kozhamkulov U. , Akhmetollayev I. , Zhukov Y. , Omarov M. , Tuleutaev M. , Akilzhanova A. , Kairov U.
Published: September 2024

Esophageal cancer stands as the eighth most prevalent cancer globally and the sixth most prevalent in Kazakhstan, with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) as its primary histological subtype, often diagnosed in advanced stages. This project aimed to unveil the genetic underpinnings of ESCC by examining differentially expressed genes (DEGs) via whole-transcriptome sequencing of Kazakhstani patients. Tissue samples from 22 individuals undergoing Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy at the Oncology Center in Astana were collected. Utilizing STAR software and DESeq2 package, DEGs were mapped and defined, followed by functional analysis using various R packages.
The study encompassed 13 males and 9 females, averaging 65.72 ± 8.26 years old, with 86% diagnosed at advanced stages T3-T4. Analysis of tumor and normal esophageal tissues unveiled 6689 DEGs, including 2056 upregulated and 4633 downregulated genes (adjusted p-value <0.05). Additionally, 42 up-regulated and 2 down-regulated KEGG pathways were identified (p-value <0.05). The top 300 DEGs were mapped to a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, and functional enrichment analysis revealed three modules comprising closely connected genes. Within our patient cohort, ESCC with moderate dysplasia emerged as the most prevalent histologic subtype, associated with poor prognosis. High-throughput sequencing techniques facilitate the identification of molecular pathways implicated in esophageal carcinogenesis, potentially revolutionizing diagnosis and treatment strategies.
This research has been funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Program targeted funding BR18574184 and grant AP09058660), and Nazarbayev University funding CRP grant 021220CRP2222.
СОХРАНЕНИЕ IN VITRO ХОЗЯЙСТВЕННО-ЦЕННЫХ ВИДОВ ГРУШИ УССУРИЙСКОЙ И ГРУШИ РЕГЕЛЯ
Authors: Дюсембекова Д.А. , Баянбай С. , Какимжанова А.А.
Published: September 2024

Потеря биологического разнообразия вследствие изменения климата имеет глобальное значение, оно неминуемо ведет к проблемам продовольственной безопасности. Основное коммерческое производство груш основывается на груши обыкновенной и груши азиатской, однако годы традиционной селекции привели к тому, что современные сорта культивируемых груш подвержены различным заболеваниям. Необходимо сохранять дикие генотипы, устойчивые к патогенам, которые в дальнейшем можно использовать в селекционных программах.
Территория Казахстана является местом образования многих современных орехоплодных и плодовых видов, так на территории Западного Тянь-Шаня находится вторичный очаг образования груши. Груша является одной из древнейших плодовых культур в Средней Азии и занимает второе место после яблони среди семечковых культур.
В Казахстане произрастает эндемичный вид - груша Регеля (Pyrus regelii). Является хозяйственно-ценными видом, весьма засухоустойчивая груша, которая может быть широко использована для облесения засушливых районов с плохими почвенными климатическими условиями. Груша уссурийская (Pyrus ussuriensis), эндемик Дальнего Востока России, Маньчжурии, Японии, является наиболее зимостойким видом, и селекционеры широко используют этот вид и его производные в программах селекции.
В естественных условиях груша размножается семенами и черенками. Первичные коллекции зародышевой гермаплазмы видов груши часто находятся в полевых насаждениях, которые уязвимы для болезней, насекомых и стрессов окружающей среды. Методы биотехнологии, такие как микроклональное размножение позволяет сохранять ценные виды растений на долгие сроки.
Для сохранения биоразнообразия и поддержания продовольственной безопасности был произведен отбор однолетних побегов диких генотипов груши Регеля в ГНПП «Сайрам-Угам» и груши уссурийской в Ботаническом саду города Астана.
Для сохранения in vitro диких генотипов груши использовали метод микроклонального размножения. Первым этапом является стерилизация и введение в культуру in vitro. Для эффективной стерилизации груши Регеля использовали 12% H2O2 в течение 5 минут. Для груши уссурийской эффективной была стерилизация 10% «Белизна» в течение 15 минут.
Для введения в культуру in vitro груши Регеля оптимальными составом питательной среды показал DKW с добавлением БАП 1,5 мг/л. Для груши уссурийской питательные среды WPM и DKW с цитокинином БАП 1,0 мг/л.
Оптимальным вариантом мультипликации для груши Регеля была питательная среда WPM с добавлением БАП 1,0 мг/л, ИМК 0,1 мг/л, ГК 0,2 мг/л, где было в среднем образовано 7,36 микропобегов на один эксплант.
Данная работа выполнена в рамках программы:
СТАНДАРТИЗАЦИЯ ИММУНОФЕРМЕНТНОЙ ТЕСТ-СИСТЕМЫ НА ОСНОВЕ ПЕРИПЛАЗМАТИЧЕСКИХ БЕЛКОВ БРУЦЕЛЛ ДЛЯ СЕРОЛОГИЧЕСКОГО МОНИТОРИНГА БРУЦЕЛЛЕЗА ЖИВОТНЫХ.
Authors: Каукабаева Г.К. , Ескендирова С.З. , Булашев А.К. , Билялов Е. , Мухлис Ш.Е. , Мухамбетова А.Е. , Ахметкаримова Ж.С. , Нуркина А.К. , Темирова А.С.
Published: September 2024

Бруцеллез является актуальной проблемой животноводства нашей страны вследствие низкой специфичности и объективности используемых серологических методов. Одним из потенциалов повышения  чувствительности и специфичности иммуноферментной  диагностики бруцеллезной инфекции наиболее эффективно применение комплекса иммунодоминантных белков бруцелл, серологически активных на различных  стадиях заболевания.
Осуществлена препаративная наработка, выделение и очистка рекомбинантных антигенов – периплазматических белков бруцелл. Проведена оптимизация и стандартизация концентрации иммунокомпонентов и параметров протокола постановки иммуноферментной тест-системы.
Иммуноферментная тест-система на основе комбинации рекомбинантных антигенов бруцелл показала высокую аналитическую чувствительность определения противобруцеллезных антител во всех коммерческих позитивных контрольных референс-сыворотках – международной бруцеллезной референс-сывороткой, моноспецифическими anti-abortus и anti-melitensis, коммерческими бруцеллезными сыворотками крови («Щелковский биокомбинат», «Покровский завод биопрепаратов» и НПО «Антиген»). Высокие титры сывороточных антител в непрямом ИФА соответствовали уровню специфической активности серопозитивных референс-сывороток (исходным характеристикам, указанных сертификатом производителя). Достоверность результатов выявления зараженных бруцеллезом животных испытуемым ИФА подтверждена показателями серологической активности пяти сывороток крови аборт-плодов с выделенной гемокультурой бруцелл из цельной крови и положительной ПЦР.
Аналитическая специфичность иммуноферментной тест-системы (способность дифференцировать целевой аналит - специфические противобруцеллезные антитела в исследумом образце) определяли  путем тестирования перекрестной реактивности с гетерологичными сыворотками животных, инфицированных родственными видами микроорганизмов – Yersinia enterocolitica 09, Escherichia coli и Salmonella . Аналитическая специфичность детекции противобруцеллезных антител в непрямом ИФА подтверждена отрицательными значениями оптической плотности (ОП) всех коммерческих негативных контрольных референс-сывороток  и гетерологичных сывороток крови, инфицированных родственными видами микроорганизмов – Yersinia enterocolitica 09, Escherichia coli и Salmonella .
Осуществлена оценка диагностической эффективности иммуноферментной тест-системы на 1785 образцах  сывороток крови от естественно инфицированных бруцеллезом животных из неблагополучных хозяйств и 877 образцах отрицательных сывороток крови животных из благополучных хозяйств из различных регионов страны. Результаты проведенных исследований подтверждает, что испытуемая  иммуноферментная тест-система способна достоверно выявлять специфические противобруцеллезные антитела у инфицированных животных и подтверждать  серонегативность животных.
ВЫДЕЛЕНИЕ НОВЫХ ШТАММОВ ДРОЖЖЕЙ ДЛЯ ПОЛУЧЕНИЯ БИОЛОГИЧЕСКОГО ФУНГИЦИДА
Authors: Туякова А.К. , Сатенова А.М. , Абильхадиров А.С. , Уразова М.С. , Шайхин С.М.
Published: September 2024

Основной причиной огромных потерь плодов и овощей в период хранения является микробное загрязнение, преимущественно фитопатогенными грибами. Эти организмы встречаются во время сбора урожая, транспортировке и хранения. В процессе своей жизнедеятельности они выделяют микотоксины, что отрицательно сказывается на здоровье населения.  Использование синтетических фунгицидов является эффективным для борьбы с болезнетворными микроорганизмами, но их интенсивное применение оказывает негативное воздействие на экосистемы. Влияние синтетических агентов на окружающую среду, стимулирует исследователей на внедрение безопасных и эффективных методов для снижения потерь урожая, альтернативные химическим фунгицидам.
Целью настоящей работы являлось выделение изолятов дрожжей и проведение скрининга их способности ингибировать мицелиальный рост фитопатогенных грибов, а также активности в формировании биопленки.
Выделение дрожжей из микробиоты почвы, ризо и филлосферы плодоовощных культур (виноград, томат, персик и т.д) проводили стандартными микробиологическим методами. Идентификация штаммов проводилась методом MALDI-TOF масс-спектрометрии с применением прибора Microflex, а также по сравнительному анализу нуклеотидной последовательности гена 16S рРНК. Изучение антагонистической активности против фитопатогенов (Penicillium expansum и Botrytis cinerea) проводили методом совместного культивирования дрожжей и фитопатогенных грибов. Количественное определение биоплёнок определяли на 96-ти луночном планшете путем окрашивания кристаллическим фиолетовым.
В результате исследований было выделено 110 изолятов микробов, из которых 35 изолятов оказались дрожжами. Из них Candida lusitaniae (17), Aureobasidium pullulans (15), Metschnikowia pulcherrima (1), Hanseniaspora uvarum (1).
Оценка образования биопленок штаммами дрожжей показала, что после 72-часовой инкубации многие штаммы дрожжей были способны прикрепляться к лунке микротитровального планшета после трех промываний. Изоляты C1b, C17b, AP3, AP9, AP8 имели самые высокие показатели оптической плотности окрашенной биопленки (ОП≥0,293).
Штаммы Metschnikowia pulcherrima A2, Hanseniaspora uvarum 15, Candida lusitaniae 7 и Aureobasidium pullulans 8 показали наиболее высокие показатели по ингибированию роста фитопатогенных грибов Penicillium expansum и Botrytis cinerea.
В результате работы были отобраны 11 штаммов дрожжей с максимальными показателями биологической активности. Биофунгицидная активность отобранных штаммов  будет изучаться на плодах плодоовощных культур.
Gut microbiome and metabolome profiling in coal workers’ pneumoconiosis: potential links to pulmonary function
Authors: Yu Xiao , Xiong Tao , Yu Lu , Liu Gaisheng , Yang Fan , Li Xueqin , Wei Yangyang , Wang Xiaojing , Wei Shuting , Jiang Yi , Kong Xiaomei , Ren Shouan , Shi Yiwei
Published: September 2024

Coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP) is a severe occupational disease resulting from prolonged exposure to coal dust. However, its pathogenesis remains elusive, compounded by a lack of early detection markers and effective treatments. Although the impact of gut microbiota on lung diseases is acknowledged, its specific role in CWP is unclear. This study aims to explore changes in the gut microbiome and metabolome in CWP, while also assessing the correlation between gut microbes and alterations in lung function. Fecal specimens from 43 CWP patients and 48 dust-exposed workers (DEW) were examined using 16S rRNA gene sequencing for microbiota and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for metabolite profiling. We observed similar gut microbial α-diversity but significant differences in flora composition (β-diversity) between patients with CWP and the DEW group. After adjusting for age using multifactorial linear regression analysis (MaAsLin2), the distinct gut microbiome profile in CWP patients revealed an increased presence of pro-inflammatory microorganisms such as
Klebsiella
and
Haemophilus
. Furthermore, in CWP patients, alterations in gut microbiota—particularly reduced α-diversity and changes in microbial composition—were significantly correlated with impaired pulmonary function, a relationship not observed in DEW. This underscores the specific impact of gut microbiota on pulmonary health in individuals with CWP. Metabolomic analysis of fecal samples from CWP patients and DEW identified 218 differential metabolites between the two groups, with a predominant increase in metabolites in CWP patients, suggesting enhanced metabolic activity in CWP. Key altered metabolites included various lipids, amino acids, and organic compounds, with silibinin emerging as a potential biomarker. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis linked these metabolites to pathways relevant to the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Additionally, studies on the interaction between microbiota and metabolites showed positive correlations between certain bacteria and increased metabolites in CWP, further elucidating the complex interplay in this disease state. Our findings suggest a potential contributory role of gut microbiota in CWP pathogenesis through metabolic regulation, with implications for diagnostic biomarkers and understanding disease mechanisms, warranting further molecular investigation.

IMPORTANCE

The findings have significant implications for the early diagnosis and treatment of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, highlighting the potential of gut microbiota as diagnostic biomarkers. They pave the way for new research into gut microbiota-based therapeutic strategies, potentially focusing on modifying gut microbiota to mitigate disease progression.
Adhesive arachnoiditis: a rare cause of postoperative urinary retention
Authors: Jonathan Cheruba , Senthil Narayanasamy , Suja Lakshmanan , Rajendran Vaasanthi
Published: September 2024

Postoperative urinary retention is a common consequence of pelvic surgeries. It is often related both to the nature of surgery and the medication used in the perioperative period. Adhesive arachnoiditis (AA) is a rare condition, which has various clinical presentations ranging from back pain to disabling neurological deficits. Numerous aetiologies for AA have been described in the literature, one such noted is spinal anaesthesia. We report a patient who presented with isolated bladder dysfunction in the form of urinary retention after spinal anaesthesia. She was evaluated and diagnosed with AA as the cause of her urinary retention. AA was complicated by raised intracranial pressure. She was treated with corticosteroids and acetazolamide, following which she made a full recovery. We would like to highlight this rare presentation, as well as lay emphasis on the early evaluation of seemingly anticipated symptoms such as postoperative urinary retention.
Classic Whipple disease presenting as genuine pyrexia of unknown origin following immunosuppression with adalimumab
Authors: Al-Musawi Mustafa , Hughes Andrew , Zafir Shoa Ali , Rose Hannah
Published: September 2024

Whipple disease (WD) is a rare chronic multisystem infectious disorder caused by the bacteriumTropheryma whipplei (T. whipplei)and is more prevalent than previously thought. Its diagnosis is often delayed by months to years owing to its rarity, non-specific manifestations and insidious course. WD classically presents with polyarthropathy followed months to years later by the development of gastrointestinal symptoms, which often lead to the diagnosis. Pyrexia of unknown origin (PUO) without gastrointestinal involvement is an extremely rare presentation. We describe a case of WD presenting as genuine PUO following immunosuppression with the tumour necrosis factor-alpha monoclonal antibody adalimumab for seronegative polyarthropathy.