bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Music Generates Emotional Responses in Growing Pigs
Authors: Cardona Juliana Zapata , Ceballos Maria Camila , Morales Ariel Marcel Tarazona , Jaramillo Edimer David , Rodríguez Berardo de Jesús
Published: October 2021

There is a lack of clarity on whether pigs can emotionally respond to musical stimulation and whether that response is related to music types. Qualitative Behavioral Assessment (QBA) was used to evaluate effects of 16 distinct musical pieces (in terms of harmony and vertical density) on emotional responses in nursery pigs (n=30) during four periods: “habituation,” “treatments,” “breaks,” and “final.” Data were evaluated using Principal component analysis (PCA). Two principal components (PC) were considered in the analysis: PC1, characterized as a positive emotions index, included the terms content, playful, sociable, and happy, whereas PC2, characterized as a negative emotions index, included fearful, inquisitive, and uneasy with positive loadings, and relaxed and calm with negative loadings. Musical stimulation (treatment) increased (P < 0.01) both emotional indices, compared to other periods and this response was influenced by the compositional characteristics of the music. We concluded that pigs have a wide variety of emotional responses, with different affective states related to the type of music used, providing evidence of its potential use as environmental enrichment for the species.
The Development and Evaluation of Online Podcast Modules as a Toolkit for Teaching Genetics and Genomics Competencies in Post-Graduate Medical Education
Authors: Phillips Eliza , Yang Xiao-Ru , Chang Caitlin , Borch Lauren , Sparkes Rebecca , MacPherson Melissa
Published: October 2021

Background: The lack of comfort with core genetic and genomic competencies among medical trainees and physicians is a barrier to the implementation of precision medicine. To address this, we developed short online modules to promote genetic competencies for use post-graduate medical education. Methods: The educational toolkit was delivered as short online podcasts accompanied by slides. Each core module is approximately 15-20 minutes, and covered basic genetics, genetic testing, counselling and consenting, and interpreting and delivering results. These were supplemented by case-based modules on cancer genetics, prenatal genetics and cardiogenetics. The modules had pre- and post-test multiple choice questions pertaining to genetic and genomic competencies, attitudes towards precision medicine, and perceived competence. Results: Based on the pre- and post-test data, residents reported a discordance between how often they cared for patients with genetic disorders and their level of confidence with core genetic competencies. Post-module evaluations demonstrated a significant increase in confidence in interpreting a microarray, and basic genetics knowledge.Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that podcast modules are an innovative method to promote genetic and genomic competencies to postgraduate medical trainees. Limitations to our study included a small sample size, and further work is needed identify and address barriers to implementation. We suggest that integration at the post-graduate medical education level will be crucial to further promoting the development of precision medicine competencies in medical trainees and physicians.
Comparing the Deep Root Growth and Water Uptake of Intermediate Wheatgrass (Kernza®) to Alfalfa.
Authors: Clement Corentin , Sleiderink Joost , Svane Simon Fiil , Smith Abraham George , Diamantopoulos Efstathios , Desbrøll Dorte Bodin , Thorup-Kristensen Kristian
Published: October 2021

AimsWater is the most important yield-limiting factor worldwide and drought is predicted to increase in the future. Perennial crops with more extensive and deep root systems could access deep stored water and build resilience to water shortage. In the context of human nutrition, perennial grain crops are very interesting. However, it is still questionable whether they are effective in using subsoil water. We compared intermediate wheatgrass (Kernza®) Thinopyrum intermedium, a perennial grain crop, to alfalfa Medicago sativa, a perennial forage, for subsoil root growth and water uptake.MethodsUsing TDR sensors, deuterium tracer labelling, minirhizotrons and the Hydrus-1D model we characterised the root distribution and water uptake patterns of these two perennial crops during two cropping seasons under field conditions down to 2.5 m soil depth.ResultsBoth crops grew roots down to 2.0 m depth that were active in water uptake but alfalfa was deeper rooted than intermediate wheatgrass. All experimental methods concluded that alfalfa used more water from below 1.0 m depth than intermediate wheatgrass. However, simulations predicted that intermediate wheatgrass used more than 20 mm of water after anthesis from below 1 m soil depth. Simulations confirmed the advantage of deep roots in accessing deep soil water under drought.ConclusionsIn regions with high groundwater recharge, growing deep-rooted perennial crops have great potential to exploit deep soil water that is often left unused. However, the road to a profitable perennial grain crop is still long and breeding intermediate wheatgrass (Kernza®) cultivars for increased root growth at depth seems to be a worthy investment for the development of more drought tolerant cultivars.
Influence of Indoor Residual Spay on An. Gambiae S.L. and An. Funestus Abundance, Resting Behavior and Community Perception on Irs Intervention In Kagera-Tanzania
Authors: Kikompolisi Gordian , Emidi Basiliana , Ngasala Billy
Published: October 2021

Background: There has been a persistence of malaria transmission in Kagera Region despite consecutive phases of indoor residual spraying (IRS) targeting malaria vectors. In addition to that, there is limited information on the resting behaviors of An. gambiae s.l. and An. funestus and community perception on IRS in Kagera. Methods: The study was conducted in two districts; Missenyi and Karagwe. Missenyi was IRS sprayed with Pirimiphos methyl insecticide and Karagwe was unsprayed. Mosquito collections were conducted using bucket traps and CDC (Centre for Disease Control) light traps. Mosquitoes were identified morphologically using taxonomical key. Sibling species were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Interviews and focused group discussions (FGDs) were conducted in order to obtain information on community perception with regard to IRS interventions. Results: A total of 5,777 mosquitoes were collected indoors by CDC light traps. An. gambiae s.l. and An. funestus accounted for 13% (n=749) of all mosquitoes collected. Unexpectedly, large proportions of An. funestus were collected indoors in Missenyi district, despite the fact that, the area was sprayed. In Karagwe district, An. gambiae s.l. was collected in large proportion. Results have showed that, An. arabiensis was the dominant sibling species among the An. gambiae s.l. in Karagwe and Missenyi districts with 82.8% (n=24) and 98.8% (n=166), respectively. Study participants agreed that, IRS campaign is useful for control of malaria vectors. They also reported that, malaria transmission have declined by comparing before and after IRS. Challenges reported which the IRS campaign poses to them, including the emergence of other insects in their houses and increase of mosquitoes later after IRS. They also reported some mosquito resting places which are not a target during spray operations. Conclusion: The present study has revealed the abundance of malaria vectors and community perception on IRS intervention efficacy and sustainability. Surprisingly, large proportions of An. funestus were collected indoors, despite the fact that, Missenyi district was sprayed. This situation calls for further studies on An. funestus behaviors and possible reasons for tolerance in sprayed area. Community sensitization before, during and after IRS application needs to be strengthen for getting intended results.
Adsorption of volatile organic compounds and microwave regeneration on self-prepared high-surface-area beaded activated carbon
Authors: Hsiao Shih-Ying , You Shu-Wen , Wang Can , Deng Ji-Guang , Hsi Hsing-Cheng
Published: October 2021

Self-prepared beaded activated carbons (SBAC) were derived from carbonized phenolic formaldehyde (PF) resins through an optimal activation procedure (900 o C for 4 h) using CO 2 . A commercial BAC (termed KBAC) was adopted to compare with SBAC over physicochemical properties, adsorption performance against methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) and toluene (TOL), and the regenerability using microwave irradiation. Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) isotherm models showed good fitting results to explain the adsorption equilibrium. The isosteric heat of adsorption was calculated using the Clausius-Clapeyron equation; the parameters obtained from the D-R isotherm indicate that the interactions between adsorbate and adsorbent were mainly due to physisorption. Microwave heating was applied to the regeneration of saturated adsorbents to examine the effect of irradiation power and heating time on the desorption behavior of adsorbate. Within 12 min of microwave irradiation, excellent desorption efficiencies based on gravimetric method were shown, reaching 110.7 ± 14.4, 104.4 ± 2.6, 90.2 ± 2.3, and 85.5 ± 5.7% for MEK-SBAC, MEK-KBAC, TOL-SBAC, and TOL-KBAC, respectively. After an 8-cycle of adsorption/regeneration, the adsorption capacity for SBAC was significantly decreased when loaded with TOL, whereas it was more significant than the virgin sample as loaded with MEK. In contrast, KBAC was able to sustain the adsorption capacity after an 8-cycle of regeneration, proving its stability throughout the microwave heating. Kinetic models were further employed to illustrate the desorption of the adsorbates from BAC samples, showing that intraparticle diffusion in SBAC and KBAC was the rate-limiting step during microwave heating. The core kinetic parameters obtained could provide insights for lab-scale adsorbent beds or practical engineering scale design. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the excellent adsorption performance of SBAC and the feasibility of microwave regeneration of BACs.
Involvement of Serum Amyloid A1 in the Pathogenesis of Insulin Resistance in Ovarian Granulosa Cells in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Zhu Qinling , Yao Yue , Xu Lizhen , Wu Hasiximuke , Wang Wangsheng , He Yaqiong , Wang Yuan , Lu Yao , Qi Jia , Ding Ying , Li Xinyu , Huang Jiaan , Zhao Hanting , Du Yanzhi , Sun Kang , Sun Yun
Published: October 2021

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) contributes to ovarian dysfunctions in PCOS patients. Serum amyloid A1 (SAA1) is an acute phase protein produced primarily by the liver in response to inflammation. In addition to its role in inflammation, SAA1 may participate in IR development in peripheral tissues. Yet, expressional regulation of SAA1 in the ovary and its role in the pathogenesis of ovarian IR in PCOS remain elusive. Methods: Follicular fluid and granulosa cells were collected from PCOS and non-PCOS patients with and without IR to measure SAA1 abundance for analysis of its correlation with IR status. The effects of SAA1 on its own expression and insulin signaling pathway were investigated in cultured primary granulosa cells. Results: Ovarian granulosa cells were capable of producing SAA1, which could be induced by SAA1 per se. Moreover, the abundance of SAA1 significantly increased in granulosa cells and follicular fluid in PCOS patients with IR. SAA1 treatment significantly attenuated insulin-stimulated membrane translocation of glucose transporter 4 and glucose uptake in granulosa cells through induction of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) expression with subsequent inhibition of Akt phosphorylation. These effects of SAA1 could be blocked by inhibitors for toll-like receptors 2/4 (TLR 2/4) and nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B (NF-κB). Conclusions: Human granulosa cells are capable of feedforward production of SAA1, which significantly increased in PCOS patients with IR. Excessive SAA1 reduces insulin sensitivity in granulosa cells via induction of PTEN and subsequent inhibition of Akt phosphorylation upon activation of TLR2/4 and NF-κB pathway. These findings highlight that local excessive synthesis of SAA1 is associated with IR development in granulosa cells of PCOS patients.
Paediatric Trauma Burden in Tanzania: Analysis of Prospective Registry Data from Thirteen Health Facilities
Authors: Sawe Hendry Robert , Milusheva Sveta , Croke Kevin , Karpe Saahil , Mfinanga Juma A
Published: October 2021

BackgroundTrauma is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among paediatric and adolescent populations worldwide, with over ninety percent of childhood injuries occurring in low-income and middle-income countries. Lack of region-specific data on paediatric injuries is among the major challenges limiting ability to implement interventions to prevent injuries and improve outcomes. We aimed to characterise the burden of paediatric injuries seen at thirteen diverse health facilities in Tanzania.MethodsThis was a prospective descriptive cohort study of children aged up to 18 years, and presenting to emergency units (EUs) of thirteen multi-level health facilities in Tanzania from 1st October 2019 to 30th September 2020. We describe injury patterns, mechanisms and early interventions performed at the emergency units of these health facilities.ResultsAmong 18,553 trauma patients seen in all thirteen-health facilities, 4368 (23.5%) were children, of whom 2894 (66.7%) were male. The overall median age was 8 years (Interquartile range 4-12 years). Fall 1592 (36.5%) and Road Traffic Crash (RTC) 840 (19.2%) were the top mechanisms of injury. Most patients 3748 (85.8%) arrived at EU directly from the injury site, using motorized (two or three) wheeled vehicles 2401 (55%). At EU 651 (14.9%) were triaged as an emergency category. Multiple superficial injuries (14.4%), fracture of forearm (11.7%), and open wounds (11.1%) were the top EU diagnoses, while 223 (5.2%) had intracranial injuries. Children aged 0-4 years had the highest proportion (16.3%) of burn injuries. Being referred, and being triaged as an emergency category was associated with high likelihood of serious injuries with risk ratio 3.3 (95%CI 2.7-4.0) and 2.3 (95% CI 2.0-2.8) respectively. 1095 (25.1%) of patients were admitted to inpatient care and 25 (0.6%) died in the EU.ConclusionsIn these multilevel health facilities in Tanzania, paediatric injuries accounted for nearly one-quarter of all injuries. Over half of injuries occurred at home. Fall from height was the leading mechanism of injury, followed by RTC. Most patients sustained fractures of extremities. Future studies of paediatric injuries should focus on evaluating various preventive strategies that can be instituted at home to reduce the incidence and associated impact of such injuries.
Mathematical Analysis of Electrical Responses in Photoreceptor Cells Reveals Distinct Chemical Control of Visual Signal Transduction in Rods and Cones.
Authors: Takeda Yukari , Sato Kazuma , Hosoki Yukari , Tachibanaki Shuji , Koike Chieko , AMANO Akira
Published: October 2021

Retinal photoreceptor cells, rods and cones, convert photons of light into chemical and electrical signals as the first step of the visual transduction cascade. Although the chemical processes in the phototransduction system are very similar to each other in these photoreceptors, the light sensitivity and time resolution of the photoresponse in rods are functionally different than those in the photoresponses of cones. To systematically investigate how photoresponses are divergently regulated in rods and cones, we have developed a detailed mathematical model on the basis of the Hamer model. The current model successfully reconstructed light intensity-, ATP- and GTP-dependent changes in concentrations of phosphorylated visual pigments (VPs), activated transducins (Tr*s) and phosphodiesterases (PDEs), as well as cyclic nucleotide-gated currents (ICNG) in rods and cones. In comparison to rods, the lower light sensitivity of cones was attributed not only to the lower affinity of activated VPs for Trs but also to the faster desensitization of the VPs. The assumption of an intermediate inactive state, MIIi, in the thermal decay of activated VPs was pivotal for inducing faster inactivation of VPs. In addition to the faster inactivation of VPs, calculating a faster rate of RGS9 intervention for PDE-induced Tr* inactivation in cones was indispensable for simulating the electrical waveforms of the light intensity-dependent ICNG at higher temporal resolution in experimental systems in vivo.
A Survey of Lifestyle and Performance Factors of Elite and Pre-Elite Athletes
Authors: Burns Lauren , Weissensteiner Juanita R. , Cohen Marc , Bird Stephen
Published: October 2021

Background

Success at the elite level in sport is often attributed to physical prowess, technical skill, and mental attitude. However, underpinning these factors are various lifestyle and social influences that further contribute to successful performance, but which may be absent from athlete development programs.
Methods

An online survey was used to investigate athlete perceptions of lifestyle practices and support services amongst 135 Australian Olympic, Paralympic, National, and state-level athletes across 25 Olympic sports.
Results

International athletes perceived psychological skills and attributes, along with strong interpersonal relationships as vital to their success, and they also rated ‘Recovery practices’ as very important. Athletes wanted greater knowledge, mentoring, and autonomy earlier in their careers.
Conclusions

An athlete development system into which these are included may assist in generating an environment to facilitate repeated podium performances, retain athletes in high-performance sport for longer, encourage human-flourishing and smooth transitions for retiring athletes.
Agreement between maternal recall of distant first birth events with hospital birth records: A cohort study
Authors: Ebrahimoff Mindy
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND Inter and intra-generational birth cohorts could be particularly useful for predicting the likelihood of labour and birth events for nulliparous women. However, maternal recall of their first childbirth may be imprecise, and hospital records can be inaccurate. Establishing the extent of agreement between mothers’ recall and hospital reports of historical first birth events could be the basis of a prediction tool that could contribute to better health care practices during daughter’s perinatal period. METHODS In 2015, women who had their first baby between 1967 and 1997 were asked to recall gravidity, method of labour onset, type of pain relief, length of labour, birth outcome, and infant’s gender, birthweight and gestational age ≥17 years postpartum. Responses were compared to hospital birth records. Agreement was evaluated using Bland-Altman’s plots and Kappa statistics (k). Logistic regression modeling was used to determine factors influencing discrepant recall. RESULTS Of 150 questionnaires distributed, 101 records were complete. Up to 49 years after birth there was strong agreement for birthweight measured at interval (mean discrepancy -28.69g, SD =170.91g, Bland-Altman 95% limits of agreement (-363.66g, 306.28g)) and category level birthweight k=0.83, good agreement for gestational age (GA) in weeks, at interval level (mean difference=0, SD =0.90, Bland-Altman 95% limits of agreement (-1.766, 1.766)) and at category level GA k=0.56. There was moderate agreement for labour length (≤10hrs/>10hrs) k=0.54; 43% of records did not record this information. For gravidity k=0.43, labour onset k=0.79; any pain relief k=0.61; and birth outcome k=0.91. Univariate logistic regression showed better agreement on infant birthweight in women with higher levels of education, lower agreement for onset of labour method with increasing maternal age at birth, and higher agreement for use of pethidine, but lower agreement for use of epidural in women who had their first babies more recently. CONCLUSIONS Mothers accounts of first birth events generally agree with hospital records. Familial birth data may contribute to more individualised care for nulliparous women, and may limit rising interventions based on population level guidelines. Future research in other settings is warranted before diagnostic criteria may be used in clinical settings.
Bioinformatics analysis of differentially expressed genes and their potentially interacting miRNAs in oral lichen planus
Authors: Zhang Churen , Sun Ruoran
Published: October 2021

Background Oral lichen planus (OLP) was a common oral mucosal disease. However, the etiology and pathogenesis of OLP were still limited. This research was designed to identify the differentially expressed genes and relative miRNAs in OLP. Methods and Results The OLP microarray dataset (GSE52130) was download from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. R software was used to identify differentially expressed genes between the OLP samples and normal oral mucosa. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway conducted. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis was performed in the STRING database. CytoHubba in the Cytoscape software was applied to determining the top 10 hub genes, whose relative miRNA was identified through RNA Interactome Database. Overall, 627 DEGs was identified in OLP samples, including 351 highly expressed genes and 276 lowly expressed genes. GO analysis indicated that the epidermal differentiation was mostly enriched. For the KEGG pathway, the DEGs in OLP samples were mostly involved in Staphylococcus aureus infection. Top 10 hub genes were identified from the PPI network. The miRNA (hsa-miR-98-5p) was regarded as the mostly possible miRNA involved in OLP. Conclusions The epidermal differentiation complex and functional miRNAs (hsa-miR-98-5p, hsa-let-7e-5p, hsa-let-7f-5p) were potential biomarkers of OLP
Genomic characteristics of a chicken infectious anemia virus strain isolated from contaminated chicken pox attenuated vaccine
Authors: Chen Longfei , Li Yan , Wang Jinjin , Zhang Yawen , Chang Shuang , Wang Yixin , Zhao Peng
Published: October 2021

Chicken infectious anemia virus (CIAV) can be transmitted by contaminated live vaccines, and causes huge economic losses. This study evaluated the contamination status of CIAV in 24 batches of vaccines by recombinase-aided amplification assay (RAA), fluorescence quantitative PCR and dot blot assay, and then determined a contaminated avian pox attenuated vaccine. The whole genome of the CIAV contaminant was then sequenced and named as JS2020-PFV (Genbank accession number: MW234428, 2296bp). It showed 94.5–99.9% identities with reference strains, and shared the closest evolution relationship with AB1K which was isolated from a chicken farm in Turkey. All these suggested that the use of CIAV contaminated live vaccine may be the reason for its epidemic in poultry.
Combined release of antiseptic and antibiotic drugs from visible light polymerized biodegradable nanocomposite hydrogels for periodontitis treatment
Authors: Bakó József , Tóth Ferenc , Gáll József , Varga István , Sculean Anton , Zelkó Romána , Hegedűs Csaba
Published: October 2021

The in-situ used combination of different types of drugs revolutionized the area of periodontal therapy. The purpose of this study was to develop biodegradable nanocomposite hydrogel (NCHG) as a pH-sensitive drug delivery system. To reach the local applicability of the NCHG in dental practice routinely used blue-light photopolymerization was chosen for the preparation. The reaction time was 60 seconds, which resulted in stable hydrogel structures. Universal Britton-Robinson buffer solutions were used to investigate only the effect of pH for the release of the periodontal pocket useable drugs in the 4-12 range. The release of metronidazole was faster, it came out from the NCHGs within 12 hours, but the chlorhexidine had shown a longer elution time, which was more than 7 days as far as the antiseptic effect was maintained. The release of chlorhexidine showed strong pH depending. The biocompatibility of the NCHGs was proved by Alamar-blue test, and the effectiveness of drug release in the acidic medium was demonstrated. This fast photopolymerizable NCHG can help to approach an ideal locally useable combined drug delivery system which can be used in the amount required of the medicines and can reduce the side effects with the increased effectiveness by following pH changes.
Investigating external and internal working processes of mining machines when operating on “unclarified” water in underground conditions
Authors:   Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University, Gabbasov1 Bulat M
Published: October 2021

Introduction. The article considers the issues of mine drainage study, including the working processes of the centrifugal pumps pumping “unclarified” water in arduous underground conditions. Such problems resolution is of high practical and scientific importance. Methods of research. Scientific and practical experience in the field of mine drainage was analyzed and generalized. The centrifugal pump modes were considered and promising research tasks in this field were outlined. Thus, the continuous income of groundwater to mine workings requires the uninterrupted operation of pumps. One of the most common types of mine-drainage plants is a multistage centrifugal pump which fulfills its functions to the full if properly operated. However, “unclarified” water pumping requires a new technique for centrifugal pump optimal modes determination in such service conditions. Result and analysis. The study of hydraulic, volumetric, and mechanical efficiency dependency on pump modes, the analysis of working processes within centrifugal pumps when operating on “unclarified” water, and the procedure and calculation of TsNS (multistage centrifugal pump) head-capacity curve were presented in the paper to justify the effectiveness of the presented solutions and conclusions. Scope of results. It is recommended that the research results are introduced in all enterprises conducting underground mining operations with the mine drainage.
Application of environmental management accounting by small and medium enterprises in South Africa
Authors: Nyahuna Thomas , Doorasamy Mishelle
Published: October 2021

By focusing on environmental management accounting in SMEs, the study helps SME managers to effectively understand and find better ways of improving environmental management. The paper investigates environmental management accounting applications in manufacturing small and medium enterprises in Gauteng province. Small and medium enterprises were chosen based on their exclusion from the mainstream research on environmental management accounting (EMA). To achieve the main aim of the study, 24 in-depth interviews were undertaken among SMEs’ managers, accountants, chief executive officers, and owners. The study found that physical EMA is more common in SMEs than monetary EMA. 77% of SMEs’ respondents confirm using physical environmental information in their operations. Therefore, SMEs prefer EMA practices with little cost or no cost attached and practices that can effectively generate returns in the short term. In addition, the avoidance of monetary EMA is anchored on the premise of avoiding costly projects with no immediate material financial returns. Therefore, EMA is critical for SMEs to achieve sustainability.
The ability of cash flows to predict the earning: Evidence from Jordan
Authors: Fawzi Shubita Mohammad
Published: October 2021

This study aims to investigate the ability of cash flows components to predict the earning and to know the extent of the relationship between accounting profits and cash flow measures. The study sample consisted of 77 industrial companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange in Jordan for the period from 2006 to 2019. This study relied on the regression method to test the relationship between the study variables. The study findings showed that the cash flows from operating, investing, and financial activities have a statistically significant impact on predicting future earnings. The study also examined the effect of length of operating cycle and company’s size on the predictive ability of cash flows regarding future earnings. The main results for this aspect are that large companies and short operating cycle companies have higher prediction ability for future earnings than small and long operating cycle companies. This paper provides evidence of the information content of cash flows for future earnings in emerging markets like Jordan and is important for Jordanian shareholders by enabling them to evaluate company’s performance.
AcknowledgmentsI would like to thank Amman Arab University for its great support, and for funding this study.
Quality and Safety of Game Meat from the Biocenosis of the Beloosipovo Mercury Deposit
Authors: Prosekov Alexander , Altshuler Olga , Kurbanova Marina
Published: October 2021

Introduction. Mercury contamination is one of the most common environmental problems. The research objective was to study the qualitative composition and physicochemical properties of raw game meat obtained from the area near the Beloosipovo mercury deposit in order to define any possible contamination w ith xenobiotics.

Study objects and methods. The research featured rib eye muscle tissue and soft flesh of elks shot on the hunting farms of the Kemerovo Region aka Kuzbass.

Results and discussion. A complex set of experiments revealed the chemical composition of elk muscle tissue and flesh, as well as the mineral composition of elk muscle tissue. The samples were obtained from different parts of carcasses. The amino acid and fatty acid composition of elk muscle tissue made it possible to describe the biological value, mineral composition, and vitamin profile of elk meat. The physicochemical analysis included toughness, cooking losses, and moisture-retaining capacity, i.e. the properties that ensure juiciness. The research also featured the accumulation of xenobiotics in elk meat samples obtained from the biosinosis near the Beloosipovo merc ury deposit.

Conclusion. The slaughter yield of elk meat was 51–53%, which exceeds the average yield of farm cattle meat by 4–6%. The moisture content was 73–78%, while the content of protein was between 20–24% and depended on the anatomical location of the muscle sample; the fat content reached 0.75–1.75%. The mercury accumulation at different storage temperature conditions ranged from 0.004 ± 0.001 to 0.009 ± 0.001 mg/kg, while the max imum allowable concentration of mercury is 0.03 mg/kg.
Hydrology under change: long-term annual and seasonal changes in small agricultural catchments in Norway
Authors: Wenng Hannah , Croghan Danny , Bechmann Marianne , Marttila Hannu
Published: October 2021

In agricultural catchments, hydrological processes are highly linked to particle and nutrient loss and can lead to a degradation of the ecological status of the water. Global warming and land use changes influence the hydrological regime. This effect is especially strong in cold regions. In this study, we used long-term hydrological monitoring data (22–26 years) from small agricultural catchments in Norway. We applied a Mann–Kendall trend and wavelet coherence analysis to detect annual and seasonal changes and to evaluate the coupling between runoff, climate, and water sources. The trend analysis showed a significant increase in the annual and seasonal mean air temperature. In all sites, hydrological changes were more difficult to detect. Discharge increased in autumn and winter, but this trend did not hold for all catchments. We found a strong coherence between discharge and precipitation, between discharge and snow water equivalent and discharge and soil water storage capacity. We detected different hydrological regimes of rain and snow-dominated catchments. The catchments responded differently to changes due to their location and inherent characteristics. Our results highlight the importance of studying local annual and seasonal changes in hydrological regimes to understand the effect of climate and the importance for site-specific management plans.
Groundwater development, use, and its quality in Korea: tasks for sustainable use
Authors: Lee Jin-Yong , Cha Jihye , Raza Maimoona
Published: October 2021

In this study, the current state of groundwater development and use and groundwater quality has been examined based on official groundwater data collected from the Republic of Korea. The groundwater data indicate a steady increase in the number of groundwater wells and an increase in groundwater pumping. The well diameters also increase with increasing well depth, owing to the development of drilling technology. Although groundwater is predominantly used for agricultural and living purposes, the former has recently outnumbered the latter. According to the groundwater quality monitoring stations covering the entire country, the groundwater levels, dissolved oxygen, and oxidation–reduction potential decrease with a steady increase in the water temperature, pH, and electrical conductivity, indicating an aggravating groundwater environment in this region. The most concerning contaminants found are nitrate, ammonia, arsenic, zinc, toluene, xylene, chloroform, and fluoride. Thus, based on these observations, we propose three essential tasks for sustainable groundwater use: a paradigm shift in groundwater management, conjunctive use and integrated management of groundwater and stream water, and groundwater governance and data quality control.
Obrazy, funkcje i znaczenie kobiet w Apokalipsie Jana
Authors: Ledwoń Dawid
Published: October 2021

Do grona głównych bohaterów Janowej Apokalipsy należą kobiety. Ich obrazy, funkcje i znaczenie w tekście wizjonera z Patmos stanowią przedmiot niniejszego studium w ujęciu synchronicznym. Autor artykułu wykazuje, że horyzont egzegetycznych dociekań, oprócz występujących w Księdze Objawienia rzeczowników γυνή (kobieta, żona) oraz νύμφη (panna młoda, oblubienica), poszerza użycie skontrastowanych elementów symboliki kobiecej i metaforyki małżeńskiej. Popularnym motywom ze styku judaizmu i świata grecko-rzymskiego Jan nadał nowe znaczenie. Budują one obraz upersonifikowanego Kościoła, który walczy z upostaciowionym złem i triumfuje jako Oblubienica Baranka.
Angioarchitecture of the coronary arteries in Mazama gouazoubira (G. Fischer, 1814)
Authors: Zaniboni Milena Sorban , Viotto-Souza Wilson , Samora Drielly Gomes Assis , Bernardes Fernanda Coelho Simas , Santos André Luiz Quagliatto , Carvalho Amarílis Díaz de , Souza-Junior Paulo de
Published: October 2021

Mazama gouazoubira is a widely distributed deer in the South American continent. However, studies on its anatomical characteristics are still scarce. The objective of this study was to elucidate the coronary circulation of M. gouazoubira. With this aim, after collecting cadavers on highways, twenty-four hearts injected with latex and preserved in formaldehyde at 10% were dissected. The dissections revealed that all specimens presented left coronary dominance, characterized by the origin of the subsinuous interventricular branch from the circumflex branch of the left coronary artery. The number of ventricular branches originated from branches of the left coronary artery was approximately five times higher than that of the right coronary artery. The occurrence of myocardial bridges was registered in 91.7% of the individuals, with bridges predominating over the paraconal interventricular branch. The mean length of the paraconal interventricular sulcus was significantly higher in males (p = 0.02). The number of atrial branches and ventricular branches, length of myocardial bridges and length of subsinuous interventricular sulcus did not vary significantly between sex. Left coronary dominance and high frequency of myocardial bridges in M. gouazoubira are preponderant anatomical traits also present in different species of Ruminantia suborder. Coronary dominance studies in other South American deer species may confirm the correlation of this trait with the evolutionary history of these animals.
Seminoma and sertolioma in non-cryptorchid dog – case report
Authors: Silva Guilherme Mantuani , Oliveira Isabela Cristina de , Toledo Rodrigo Samuel de , Bezerril Juliana Evangelista , Vasques Gabriela Maria Benedetti , Gasser Beatriz , Marcusso Paulo Fernandes , Romani Isaac
Published: October 2021

The most common testicular neoplasms in dogs are seminoma, leydigocytoma and sertolioma, affecting middle--aged and elderly dogs, where cryptorchidism is a predisposing factor, as well as some breeds. It can occur alone or, less fren-quently, concurrently, generally affecting the same testicle. This study aimed to report the case of a non-cryptorchid 14-year--old mixed breed dog diagnosed with seminoma and sertolioma, each in a testicle. The animal showed an increase in scrotal volume, with no changes in other clinical parameters on physical examination. On ultrasound examination, it was possible to observe alterations suggestive of neoplasia in both testicles and prostatic alteration suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Complementary blood count and biochemical tests were performed and, as treatment, orchiectomy was performed. Fragments were collected from both testicles and sent for histopathological examination. Microscopy of the left testicle showed the presence of round cells, multiple and evident nucleoli, cells in different phases of mitosis and binucleation, these changes being compa-tible with seminoma. In contrast, in the right testicle, spindle and elongated cells (pseudo-lobular) were observed, presence of long cytoplasmic projections with rounded ovoid nucleus, spindle cells and degeneration of seminiferous tubules, compatible with sertolioma. It was observed that physical examination associated with ultrasound was efficient to detect the presence of neoplasms, being validated by histopathological examination. Orchiectomy was an assertive treatment indicated for this case.
The Relation of the Viral Structure of SARS-CoV-2, High-Risk
Condition, and Plasma Levels of IL-4, IL-10, and IL-15 in COVID-19
Patients Compared to SARS and MERS Infections
Authors: Mousavizadeh Leila , Soltani Ramin , Abedini Kosar , Ghasemi Sorayya
Published: October 2021

Background:

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-
2) has a high mortality rate due to widespread infection and strong immune system
reaction. Interleukins (ILs) are among the main immune factors contributing to the
deterioration of the immune response and the formation of cytokine storms in
coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) infections.

Introduction:

This review article aimed at investigating the relationship between virus
structure, risk factors, and patient plasma interleukin levels in infections caused by the
coronavirus family.

Method:

The keywords "interleukin," "coronavirus structure," "plasma," and "risk
factors" were searched to find a relationship among different interleukins, coronavirus
structures, and risk factors in ISI, PUBMED, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar databases.

Results:

Patients with high-risk conditions with independent panels of immune system
markers are more susceptible to death caused by SARS-CoV-2. IL-4, IL-10, and IL-15
are probably secreted at different levels in patients with coronavirus infections despite
the similarity of inflammatory markers. SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV increase the
secretion of IL-4, while it remains unchanged in MERS-CoV infection. MERS-CoV
infection demonstrates increased IL-10 levels. Although IL-10 levels usually increase in
SARS-CoV infection, different levels are recorded in SARS-CoV-2, i.e., it increases in
some patients while it decreases in others. This difference may be due to factors such
as the patient's condition and the pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2. MERS-CoV increases
IL-15 secretion while its levels remain unchanged in SARS-CoV-2. The levels of IL-15 in
patients with SARS-CoV have not been studied.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the different structures of SARS-CoV-2, such as length of
spike or nonstructural proteins (NSPs) and susceptibility of patients due to differences in
their risk factors, may lead to differences in immune marker secretion and pathogenicity.
Therefore, identifying and controlling interleukin levels can play a significant role in
managing the symptoms and developing individual-specific treatments.
miR-141-3p Promotes the Cisplatin Sensitivity of Osteosarcoma
Cell through Targeting the Glutaminase [GLS]-Mediated Glutamine
Metabolism
Authors: Zhou Xueli , Wei Panpan , Wang Xinju , Zhang Jianguo , Shi Yulin
Published: October 2021

Aims:

This study aimed to evaluate the roles and molecular targets of
miRNA-141-3p in the cisplatin sensitivity of osteosarcoma.

Background:

Osteosarcoma is one of the most common-type bone tumors, occurring
mainly in children and adolescents. Cancer cells display dysregulated cellular
metabolism, such as the abnormally elevated glutamine metabolism.

Objective:

Non-coding RNA miRNA-141-3p has been reported to act as a tumor
suppressor in osteosarcoma. Currently, the precise molecular mechanisms for the miR-
141-3p-mediated chemosensitivity through regulating glutamine metabolism remain
unclear.

Methods:

We collected thirty paired OS tumors and their adjacent normal tissues. The
osteosarcoma cell lines [Saos-2] and normal osteoblast cells, hFOB1.19, were used for
in vitro experiments. RT-qPCR and Western blot were applied for gene expression
detections. Targets of miR-141-3p were predicted from starBase. The MTT and flow
cytometric assays were performed to determine cell growth and apoptosis rates. The
cellular glutamine metabolism was monitored by glutamine uptake assay and the
glutaminase [GLS] activity assay.

Results:

We reported that miR-141-3p were significantly downregulated in
osteosarcoma tissues and cells. Overexpression of miR-141-3p suppressed OS cell
growth and sensitized OS cells to cisplatin. In addition, glutamine metabolism was
significantly increased in osteosarcoma. We characterized that GLS played oncogenic
roles in osteosarcoma and validated GLS was a direct target of miR-141-3p in OS cells.
Rescue experiments consistently demonstrated that miR-141-3p-promoted cisplatin
sensitivity was achieved by targeting GLS directly.

Conclusion:

Overall, our findings revealed new molecular mechanisms of the miR-141-
3p-modulated cisplatin sensitization through targeting the GLS-glutamine metabolism
pathway. This study will contribute to developing new therapeutic approaches for the
treatments of chemoresistant osteosarcoma.
Aminoglycosides with Anti-MRSA Activity: A Concise Review
Authors: Yao Cheng-Jiao , Li Yi-lin , Pu Meng-Jun , Luo Li-Hong , Xiong Qin , Xie Feng-Jiao , Li Ting-Lin , Feng Pei-Min
Published: October 2021

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a leading cause of infections in human
being and is usually associated with a multidrug-resistant profile, represents a significant health
threat and public burden globally. The limited options of effective antibiotics motivate the search for
novel anti-MRSA agents. Aminoglycoside antibiotics have been extensively applied in the medical
field due to their desirable broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, especially for systemic infections
caused by Gram-negative organisms. Recent studies demonstrated that aminoglycosides also possessed
potential activity against MRSA, so aminoglycosides may be useful weapons to fight against
MRSA. The present work aims to summarize the current scenario of aminoglycosides with anti-
MRSA potential, covering articles published between 2010 and 2020. The structure-activity relationship
and the mechanism of action are also discussed for the further rational design of novel potential
drug candidates.
Current Knowledge Regarding Pharmacological Profile and Chemical Constituents of Gynura procumbens
Authors: Haque Ehfazul , Kamal Mir Shahriar , Tahsin Md. Rafat , Ahmed Raju , Choudhury Jakir Ahmed , Chowdhury Abu Asad , Kabir Shaila , Amran Md. Shah , Uddin Md. Sahab
Published: October 2021

Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr. is a well-known plant used in folkloric medicine in
tropical Asian countries. The plant is prevalently employed by traditional healers in the treatment
of diabetes, cancer, hypertension, inflammation, fever, and skin disorders. Several scientific studies
reported that Gynura procumbens possesses considerable therapeutic value for the development of
emerging treatment options. The diverse pharmacological effects of this plant are attributed to its
vast phytoconstituent content. Different chemical classes, including alkaloids, flavonoids,
phenolics, steroids, proteins, and polysaccharides, have been isolated from this plant. In this review,
we tried to explore the different aspects of Gynura procumbens as an established medicinal
plant. The data gathered here give an indication that the plant Gynura procumbens is a good natural
source of chemical compounds with different types of pharmacological actions, and these chemical
compounds can be used as models for the development of de novo therapeutic agents.
Spindle Cell Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Ab Mumin Nazimah , Rahmat Kartini , Sanmugasiva Vithya , Hamid Marlina Tanty Ramli , Fadzli Farhana
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Metaplastic breast carcinoma is an uncommon malignancy that constitutes
< 5% of all breast cancers. There are 5 subtypes which are spindle cell, squamous cell, carcinosarcoma,
matrix-producing and metaplastic with osteoclastic giant cells. Spindle cell carcinoma
represents approximately <0.3% of invasive breast carcinomas. It is typically a triple-negative cancer
with distinct pathological characteristics, but relatively a non-conclusive on imaging findings.

Case report:

An elderly lady presented with an enlarging painful left breast lump for one year. Palpable
left breast lump was found on clinical examination. Mammography demonstrated a high density,
oval lesion with a partially indistinct margin. Corresponding ultrasound showed a large irregular
heterogeneous lesion with solid-cystic areas. Histopathology showed atypical spindle-shaped
cells that stained positive for cytokeratins and negative for hormone and human epidermal growth
factor receptors, which favoured spindle cell metaplastic carcinoma. Left mastectomy and axillary
dissection were performed, and the final diagnosis was consistent with metaplastic spindle cell carcinoma.

Conclusion:

Spindle cell carcinoma of the breast is a rare and aggressive histological type of carcinoma,
which may present with benign features on imaging. Tissue diagnosis is essential for prompt
diagnosis with multidisciplinary team discussion to guide management and improve patient’s outcomes.
Introducing Nanoclay and Silica-based Composites as a New Approach for
Improving Chemical and Mechanical Properties of Soil: A Review
Authors: Haddad Abdolhosein , Karimi-Maleh Hassan , Dehestani Hojat
Published: October 2021

:

Layered silicates (nanoclay) are new types of nanomaterials derived from clay minerals with a
wide range of applications in different fields such as catalysts, soil industry, etc. Nanoclays are wide
ranges of naturally occurring inorganic minerals with different derivatives. Montmorillonite is a wellknown
nanoclay consisting of a 2:1 layered structure with two-silica tetrahedron sandwiching an alumina
octahedron. In nature, nanoclays can be found in both crystalline (phyllosilicates) and non-crystalline
(imogolite) forms. Nanoclays incorporated into polymer matrices have demonstrated a significant capability
to improve the tensile and barrier properties of soil. Nanoclays play a vital role in enhancing soil quality
due to their high surface area and porous structure. On the other hand, due to the positive charge of
sand grains and the chemical compositions of clay particles, the negatively charged clay particles help
create a good condition to improve soil properties. According to the best of our knowledge, there is no
review paper to study the role of nanoclays on soil samples. This review paper describes the role of
nanoclay compounds in the improved properties of soil samples and introduces different types of modified
nanoclay used in soil samples. Reported results showed that nanoclays with complex structures are
useful nanomaterials for improving the quality of soil samples.