bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosomal circZFR promotes colorectal cancer progression via interacting with BCLAF1 and regulating the miR-3127-5p/RTKN2 axis
Authors: Chen Jiaxin , Xu Jianbin , Wang Huijuan , Chen Engeng , Meng Qing , Wang Jiawei , Zhou Wei , Shan Ge , Ju Zhenyu , Song Zhangfa
Published: June 2022

Background
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have gained attention as novel biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Aberrant expression of circRNAs is widely involved in cancer development, whereas the function and mechanism of novel circRNAs in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain unclear.
Methods
CircZFR was identified both in CRC tissues from the GEO database and in serum exosomes by competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) microarray. The expression of circZFR was evaluated in CRC tissues and serum by qRT-PCR and in tissue microarray (TMA) by FISH. The functional roles were confirmed using a series of in vitro assays and tumor xenografts and pulmonary/hepatic metastasis mouse models. The mechanisms of circZFR were assessed through circRNA pulldown, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), dual-luciferase reporter assays and rescue experiments. Lastly, TCP1-CD-QDs nanocarrier was used to carry circZFR siRNA (si-circZFR) to exam the therapeutic potential of circZFR in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models.
Results
CircZFR was upregulated in cancer tissues and serum exosomes of CRC patients and its level was positively associated to advanced TNM stages and poor prognosis. Serum circZFR was indicative of CRC incidence, advanced-stages and metastasis. Functional experiments demonstrated that circZFR promoted CRC proliferation and metastasis but inhibited apoptosis in vitro and in vivo, exosomes with upregulation of circZFR facilitated growth and migration of cocultured CRC cells. Mechanistically, the generation of circZFR could be improved by epithelial splicing regulatory protein 1 (ESRP1) in CRC cells. CircZFR bound to BCL2-associated transcription factor 1 (BCLAF1) and inhibited its ubiquitinated degradation. Moreover, circZFR sponged miR-3127-5p to increase the expression of rhotekin 2 (RTKN2). Our TCP1-CD-QDs nanocarrier was able to carry si-circZFR and delivered them to the vasculature of CRC tissues and cells, resulting in suppressive tumor growth without obvious adverse effects in PDX models.
Conclusions
Our findings indicate that ESRP1-mediated circZFR exerts oncogenic effects on CRC development and spread through suppressing BCLAF1 degradation and regulating the miR-3127-5P/RTKN2 axis. CircZFR is a promising serum biopsy marker for CRC diagnosis and an attractive target for further therapy.
DMOG attenuates steroid-associated endothelial progenitor cell impairment and osteonecrosis of the femoral head via regulating HIF-1α signaling pathway in rabbit
Authors: Shao Wenkai , Li Zilin , Wang Bo , Gong Song , Han Lizhi , Chen Zhixiang , Lv Xiao , Feng Yong
Published: June 2022

Background: Steroid-associated osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SONFH), generally caused by chronic or/and high-dose use of Glucocorticoids (GCs), has long been puzzling mankind for a long time as the most essential etiology for non-traumatic ONFH. Hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is an essential transcription factor that plays a significant role in maintaining bone homeostasis. By repressing prolyl hydroxylase domain (PHD) enzymic activity, Dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG) was reported to inhibit the transcription and activation of HIF-1α. Recently, the impairment and dysfunction of endothelium has been closely related to the pathogenesis of SONFH. Our previous studies have shown the compromised number and function of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) which are the major source of restoring the endothelium during reendothelialization in SONFH patients. Nevertheless, whether activated HIF-1α by DMOG could alleviate GCs-related damaged biological function of EPCs remains unclear.Methods: We investigated that regulating HIF-1α signaling pathway of EPCs could be the therapeutic target for SONFH in vitro and vivo. Western blot analysis was used to assess protein expression. Transwell, tube formation, senescence-associated β-galactosidase and ELISA assays were carried out in vitro. SONFH was induced by methylprednisolone combined with lipopolysaccharide in rabbits. Histological staining of sections were conducted to evaluate the expression of HIF-1α which is of significance for osteogenesis and angiogenesis. Immunohistochemical staining of local femoral head slices and flow cytometry analysis of peripheral blood were used to quantify the number of EPCs.Results: High dose of GCs remarkably inhibited HIF-1α expression and subsequently compromised the bioactivity in EPCs. DMOG treatment was able to reverse the impairment effects in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro, while inhibition of HIF-1α by KC7F2 essentially attenuated these outcomes. Our in vivo experiments also showed that DMOG obviously increased blood supply and alleviated osteonecrosis owing to the increased HIF-1α expression of EPCs. Conclusion: The importance of HIF-1α to the regulation of EPCs is emphasized due to its reendothelialization in SONFH. Our results indicated that DMOG not only promoted the activation of HIF-1α signaling pathway in EPCs, but also boosted endogenous EPCs targeting and homing to damaged endothelium beneficial to reendothelialization in femoral head.
Cytotoxic CD8+ T cells may be drivers of tissue destruction in Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Kaneko Naoki , Chen Hu , Perugino Cory A , Maehara Takashi , Munemura Ryusuke , Yokomizo Shiho , Sameshima Junsei , Diefenbach Thomas J , Chinju Akira , Miyahara Yuka , Sakamoto Mizuki , Moriyama Masafumi , Stone John H , Nakamura Seiji , Pillai Shiv
Published: June 2022

Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder whose pathogenesis is poorly understood and that lacks effective therapies. Detailed quantitative and spatial analyses of tissues affected by Sjögren’s syndrome were undertaken, including the quantitation of the frequency of selected cell-cell interactions in the disease milieu. Quantitative analyses of CD4 + T cell subsets and of CD8 + T cells in the labial salivary glands from untreated patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome revealed that activated CD8 + cytotoxic T cells (CD8 + CTLs) were the most prominent T cells in these infiltrates. An accumulation of apoptotic glandular epithelial cells was observed, consistent with the impaired salivary secretion often observed in patients with this disease. FasL expressing activated CD8 + T cells were seen to accumulate around Fas expressing apoptotic epithelial cells. Quantitative analyses of apoptotic cell types and of conjugates between cytotoxic T cells and epithelial cells undergoing apoptosis suggest that Sjögren’s syndrome is primarily driven by CD8 + CTL mediated execution of epithelial cells.
Causal Association Between Genetically Determined Iron Status and Lung Cancer: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Li shizhen , Xiao xun , zhang xiangyu
Published: June 2022

Background: observational studies have demonstrated that the causal relationship between iron status and lung cancer remains unclear causality. A two-sample mendelian randomization (MR) study was performed to identify the causal association between iron status traits and risk of lung cancer.Methods: Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) strongly associated (P <5 × 10-8) with four biomarkers of systemic iron status were obtained from a genome-wide association study containing 48,972 subjects from the Genetics of Iron Status Consortium (GISC). Summary-level data for the genetic associations with lung cancer were extracted from International Lung Cancer Consortium (ILCCO) on 11,348 cases and 15,861 controls. We used a two-sample MR study to obtain causal estimates and assessed by sensitivity analyses.Results: Genetically determined serum iron [OR, 0.86; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.76-1.00; P=0.025)] had a negative effect on lung cancer, while no significant association with lung cancer was found in transferrin saturation (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.81-1.02; P=0.110), log10 ferritin (OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.52-1.12; P=0.170), and transferrin (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.86-1.38; P=0.470).Conclusion: In conclusion, our results strongly supported a causal link between genetically determined lower serum iron levels and increased risk of lung cancer. These findings may provide a potential clinical prevention and treatment strategy.
Lethal condition of water quality parameters and bioaccumulation of heavy metals in water and fish from Balu River, Bangladesh
Authors: Jahan Bilkis , Banu Mst Rubia , Haque Md. Rezoanul , Mondal Md. Nurunnabi , Hossain Md. Amzad
Published: June 2022

The study was carried to measure the water quality parameters and concentration of heavy metals in water and fish in wet and dry seasons. Temperature, color and odor, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solid (TDS), total solid (TS), optical density, salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO) of water and the concentration of heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Cd, Zn and Cr) in water and five fish species (Puntius ticto, Channa punctatus, Glossogobius giuris, Amblypharyngodon mola and Mystus vittatus) were determined. The River water was slightly black, light gray and black in color and the odor was highly pungent in dry season. The DO values were lethal for aquatic lives. Temperature and pH were within the suitable limit in wet season. The TDS, EC and TS of water were higher in dry than wet season. The decreasing trend of metals concentrations was Zn > Cu > Pb > Cr > Cd in water and Zn > Cu and Pb > Cr > Cd in fish species. The concentration of metals in the water and fish were higher during dry than wet season. The Cu in G. giuris, Pb, Cr, Zn in A. mola, the Cd value in C. punctatus were the highest among other fishes during dry season. However, the total metal bioaccumulation were the greatest in A. mola and the lowest in P. ticto during dry season. The water was highly deteriorated in dry season compared to wet season and this might be due to discharges from the nearest industries.
Myocardial Bridge Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Cai Mei-lian , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2022

Background: Myocardial bridging (MB) is a congenital coronary artery malformation. Various clinical symptoms related to MB have been reported, however, subxiphoid pain has rarely been reported. Moreover, it is rarer for electrocardiography (ECG) to show such obvious ischaemia in patients with MB.Case presentation: We report a 36-year-old man who presented with subxiphoid pain. Electrocardiography showed ST segment depression and T-wave inversion with symmetry in leads V2 to V6. Emergency coronary angiography (CAG) confirmed that it was caused by MB.Results: CAG showed MB of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery with a 1.5 cm intramural segment, and that the vascular lumen was compressed 80% during systole. At the same time, gastroscopy showed peripyloric and antral ulcers. The patient received calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and peptic ulcerrelated drug treatment then, the symptoms disappeared.Conclusion: The ECG showed obvious myocardial ischaemia. MB may have been one of the reasons for ischaemia. When the heart contracts, the MB compresses the mural coronary artery and further narrows its lumen. The longer and thicker the MB is, the greater the angle between myocardial fibres and blood vessels, the more severe the mural coronary artery stenosis, the more severe the distal myocardial ischaemia.
An Infrared Absorption Study of Powerful Solvent Systems Useful for the Solution Synthesis of Sparingly Soluble Peptides
Authors: Moretto Vittorio , Formaggio Fernando , Crisma Marco , Toniolo Claudio , Bodi Joze'f , Kimura Terutoshi , Sakakibara Shumpei
Published: June 2022

The remarkable {3-sheet forming properties of the sparingly soluble, fully blocked dipeptide Ac-L-Ala-L­
Thr(Palm)-NH2 were investigated in a variety of solvent mixtures by IR absorption . lri particular, it was found that mixtures of halohydrocarbons and haloalcohols are extremely efficient for disrupting self­ association and enhancing solubility of this peptide model compound.
Activity of the Stable Intermediate form of Heat Treated Ricin B-Chain
Authors: Tonevitsky Alexander G. , Bushueva Tatyana L. , Bushuev Valeriy N. , Agapov Igor I. , Sweeney Edel C. , Palmer Rex A.
Published: June 2022

Intrinsic fluorescence and NMR-spectroscopy demonstrate that heat treatment of the ricin carbohydrate binding subunit (RTB) leads to partial unfolding to an intermediate stable state with enhanced amino acid side chain mobility and a redistribution of surface charges. RTB continues to facilitate transmembrane translocation of the enzymatically active ricin subunit (RTA) although its lectin activity and ability to interact with RTA are dramaticaJiy reduced following this thermal modification. The proposal that RTB potentiates membrane translocation of the A-chain in this intermediate folded state is discussed.
Sequence of Schistosoma Mansoni Cathepsin C and its Structural Comparison with Papain and Cathepsins B and L of the Parasite
Authors: Butler Richard , Michel Anja , Kunz Werner , Klinkert Mo-Quen
Published: June 2022

TI1e deduced amino acid sequence of a Schistosoma mm1.wni cDNA encoding cathepsin C is 30 % identical to cathepsins B and L of the parasite. Molecular model structures of cathepsins C and L were compared with the crystal structures of papain and human liver cathepsin B as well as with a previously established model of schistosoine cathepsin B. All three parasite cysteine proteases show strong similarities to papain and human liver cathepsin B, but with several individual differences, also in their probable interactions with peptidyl substrates.
Crystallization and Characterisation Of A Rubidium Chloride Complex of Gramicidin
Authors: Doyle Declan A. , Wallace B. A.
Published: June 2022

The linear hydrophobic polypeptide gramicidin forms monovalent cation channels in membranes. Here we report a new tetragonal crystal form of gramicidin in
complex with rubidium chloride. The unit cell dimensions are a = b = 17.7 A, c = 92.5 A and the space group is consistent with either of the enantiomorphic groups P4122 or P4322. It is proposed that the unit cell contains four helical dimers, each approximately 23 A in length. The conformation of gramicidin in this crystal form must have considerable backbone distortions and be very different from that in any other gramicidin crystals prepared to date.
Acute Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis in Children: A Comprehensive
Review
Authors: Brant Pinheiro Sérgio Veloso , de Freitas Victor Buchini , de Castro Gustavo Valverde , Rufino Madeiro Beatriz Cronemberger , de Araújo Stanley Almeida , Silva Ribeiro Thomas Felipe , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina
Published: June 2022

Background:

Acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) is an immune-
complex (ICs) mediated glomerular disease triggered by group A β-hemolytic
streptococcus (GAS) or Streptococcus pyogenes infections. APSGN represents a major
cause of acquired kidney injury in children.

Methods:

This non-systematic review summarizes recent evidence on APSGN. We discuss
the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical and laboratory findings, histopathology,
treatment and prognosis of the disease.

Results:

The median APSGN incidence in children in developing countries is estimated
at 24.3/100,000 per year, compared with 6.2/100,000 per year in developed countries.
Nephritis-associated plasmin receptor, identified as glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase,
and the cationic cysteine proteinase streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin B are
thought to be two leading streptococcal antigens involved in the pathogenesis of APSGN,
which activate the complement system, mainly via the alternative but also the lectin
pathway. This process is critical for the generation of inflammation by the ICs deposited
in the glomerulus. The classic phenotype is an acute diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis
leading to features of the nephritic syndrome, including hematuria, oliguria,
hypertension and edema. The histopathology shows that the glomeruli are diffusely affected,
mostly presenting enlarged glomerular tuffs due to hypercellularity. Proliferative
endothelial and mesangial cells and inflammation have also been observed. APSGN frequently
has spontaneous recovery. There is no specific therapy, but its morbidity and
mortality are drastically reduced by the prevention and/or treatment of complications.

Conclusion:

Despite recent advances, the pathogenesis of APSGN is not fully understood.
There is no specific treatment for APSGN. The prognosis is generally good. However,
some cases may evolve into chronic kidney disease.
Post-lockdown Rebounding High-risk Behaviors and HIV Testing Among
MSM in China in the Era of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Li Xianhong , Yang Jiahui , Yi Mengyao , Qian Han-Zhu , Chen Yuqing , Zhou Qidi
Published: June 2022

Background:

Lockdown measures for controlling the COVID-19 epidemic were enforced
in China between January and May 2020. Previous studies showed a decrease in HIV highrisk
behaviors (HRBs) and updated testing during the lockdown, but little is known about these behaviors
during the post-lockdown period.

Objective:

We conducted quantitative and qualitative assessments of HIV-related behaviors among
MSM during the lockdown and post-lockdown periods in Changsha, south-central China.

Methods:

Face-to-face structured interviews with open-ended questions were conducted using the
TimeLine Follow Back (TLFB) method for collecting retrospective data on frequencies of HRBs
and testing. McNemar’s Chi-square test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used to comparing frequencies
of behaviors between lockdown (January-May 2020) and post-lockdown periods (June-
October 2020). Content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data on the reasons for rebounding
HRBs and testing.

Results:

Of 159 MSM participants, 64% had at least one HRB during the post-lockdown period.
Men had increased condomless sex (from 24% to 35%), multiple partners (23% to 35%), and substance
abuse (16% to 27%) between the two study periods due to the negative emotions and increased
use of social networks during the lockdown. HIV testing frequency also increased from
37% to 66% due to resuming routine testing services in the community-based organizations and increased
HRBs among MSM during post-lockdown.

Conclusions:

After lifting the lockdown measures, MSM had rebounding HRBs and uptake of testing.
Effective preventive measures and healthcare services should be available to MSM after the
lockdown measures are lifted.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of Spiro[4H-pyran-3,3’-oxindoles] Catalyzed by Tröger's Base Derivative
Authors: Liu Run-xin , Liang Yan-ni , Ren Xuan-xuan , Wu Qian-qian , Huang Can , Cao Shi-nian , Wan Yu , Zhou Sheng-liang , Yuan Rui , Wu Hui
Published: June 2022

Objective:

Two classes of spiro[4H-pyran-3,3’-oxindole] derivatives were prepared via the one pot reaction of chain diketones (1-phenyl-1,3-butanedione or dibenzoyl methane), substituted isatins and malononitrile successfully catalyzed by a Tröger’s base derivative 1b (5,12-dimethyl-3,10-diphenyl-bis-1H-pyrazol[b,f][4,5]-1,5-diazadicyclo[3.3.1]-2,6-octadiene). The antibacterial activity of products against three wild-type bacteria (B. subtilis, S. aureus, and E. coli) and two resistant strains (Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (18H8) and E. coli carrying the BlaNDM-1 gene (18H5)) was evaluated using the minimum inhibitory concen-tration (MIC).

Methods:

1-Phenyl-1,3-butanedione 2 or dibenzoylmethane 2' (0.42 mmol), substituted isatin 3 (0.4 mmol), malononitrile 4 (0.8 mmol), Tröger's base derivative 1b (0.08 mmol), and 10 mL of acetonitrile were added to a 50 mL round bottom flask and refluxed. After the completion (TLC monitoring), water (10 mL) was added to the reaction mixture; pH = 7 was adjusted with saturated NaHCO3 (aq.), and the mixture was ex-tracted with CH2Cl2 (50 mL × 3). Organic layers were combined and dried with anhydrous Na2SO4; the solvent was removed under vacuum, and the residue was purified by column chromatography (VDCM: VMeOH = 80: 1) to afford product 5. The antibacterial activity was tested by the MTT method.

Results:

Seventeen spiro[4H-pyran-3,3’-oxindole] derivatives were synthesized through the reaction of chain diketones (1-phenyl-1,3-butanedione or dibenzoyl methane), substituted isatins, and malononitrile in one-pot in medium to high yields. Four compounds showed antibacterial activity, and two of them showed the same activity as the positive control Ceftazidime on S. aureus (MIC = 12.5 μg/mL).

Conclusion:

Two classes of spiro[4H-pyran-3,3’-oxindole] derivatives were prepared, and their antibacterial activity was evaluated. Tröger’s base derivative 1b (5,12-dimethyl-3,10-diphenyl-bis-1H-pyrazol[b,f][4,5]-1,5-diazadicyclo[3,3,1]-2,6-octadiene) was used as an efficient organocatalyst for the reaction of low reac-tive chain diketones (1-phenyl-1,3-butanedione or dibenzoyl methane), substituted isatins, and malononitrile in one-pot successfully and effectively by providing multiple active sites and alkaline environment. By the theoretical calculation, we explained the possible reaction sequence and mechanism. Due to the superiority and high efficiency of the TB framework as an organocatalyst, the reaction showed many advantages, in-cluding mild reaction conditions, low catalyst loading, and a wide substrate range. It expanded the application of Tröger’s base to the multicomponent reaction in organocatalysis. Some products were screened due to their high antibacterial activity in vitro, showing their potential in new antibacterial drug development.
Current Practice and Controversies in Screening for Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Huda M.S. Bobby , Mallik Ritwika
Published: June 2022

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with fetal and maternal complications, and the prevalence has been increasing over the past decades. Hence, it is imperative to effectively screen, manage and monitor patients with GDM but there continues to be a lack of consensus on optimal screening for GDM internationally. In this review, we discuss the current screening methods for GDM, some of which are controversial and vary across several different healthcare systems. We also discuss the changes adapted to these guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic and review novel approaches to the screening of GDM.
The Role of Peptidyl Arginine Deiminase IV(PADI4) in Cancers
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Wu Xiangmei , Wang Yuji
Published: June 2022

Background:

Peptidyl arginine deiminase IV (PADI4, also called PAD4), a Ca2+-dependent posttranslational
modification enzyme, catalyzes the conversion of arginine residues to non-coded citrulline residues.
Dysregulation of PADI4 is involved in a variety of diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis
(MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD) and many kinds of malignant tumors.

Objective:

The roles of PADI4 in different tumors and the underlying molecular mechanisms are presented in this
article.

Results:

PADI4-mediated citrullination is associated with either transcriptional activation or repression in different
contexts. Abnormal expression of PADI4 exists in a variety of malignant tumors and affects tumor progression and
metastasis. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), apoptosis, and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) may be
the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Conclusion:

PADI4 plays crucial role in the occurrence, development, and metastasis of tumors, and PADI4 may be
an effective biomarker for cancer prognosis and a potential target for cancer treatment.
Nano-Biomaterials for Immunotherapy Applications
Authors: Saxena Pooja
Published: June 2022

Because of their nano-size, biological compatibility, and ability to precisely
engineer antigens displayed, payloads packaged, and destinations targeted, nanobiomaterials are gaining traction as next-generation therapeutic tools. Oncolytic viruses
were the first to be exploited in cancer immunotherapy because these are natural cell
killers and, in some cases, highly selective for cancerous cells. Further, oncolytic
viruses can be engineered to encode immune-stimulators and therapeutic genes.
However, for oncolytic viruses to work, it is essential to develop these as viable viruses
with the ability to infect. This raises safety concerns and poses hurdles in regulatory
approval. To circumvent this limitation, non-replicating viruses and virus-like particles
have been explored for immunotherapeutic applications. The advantage of these is their
inability to infect mammals, thereby eliminating bio-safety concerns. Nonetheless,
concerns related to toxicity need to be addressed in each case. Several virus-like
particle candidates are currently in preclinical development stages and show promise
for clinical use via intertumoral administration, also referred to as vaccination in situ.
In cases where in situ administration is not possible due to the absence of solid tumours
or inaccessibility of the tumour, nano-biomaterials for systemic administration are
desired, and extracellular vesicles fit this bill. Exosomes, in particular, can provide
controlled abscopal effects – a property desirable for the treatment of metastatic cancer.
This chapter discusses the state-of-the-art in the development of nano-biomaterials for
immunotherapy. With a plethora of candidates in development and over two hundred
clinical trials ongoing worldwide, nanobiomaterials hold great promise as effective
cancer immunotherapies with minimal side effects.
Aptamers in Theranostic Bionanomaterials
Authors: Nsairat Hamdi , Alshaer Walhan , Mahmoud Ismail Sami , Ismail Mohammad A , Esawi Ezaldeen , Alsotari Shrouq , Ismail Said I.
Published: June 2022

Theranostic nanomaterials hold the potential to revolutionize future disease
management. Recent progress in nanomaterials technology and aptamer-base-
-targeting molecules have promoted efficient theranostics models. Aptamers are unique
three-dimensional structures consisting of oligonucleotide (25-80 nt) polymers. They
are comparable to monoclonal antibodies in their receptor-driven binding efficacy
toward specific target receptors and binding ability to specific target molecules with
high affinity and specificity. Aptamers have several other advantages, including
prolonged shelf life, little or no variation from batch to batch, and ease of chemical
modifications for enhanced stability and targeting capacity. Owing to the advantages
mentioned above, aptamers are attracting great attention in diverse applications ranging
from therapy, drug delivery, diagnosis, and functional genomics as well as biosensing.
Herein, the aim is to give an overview of aptamers, highlight the opportunities of their
application as means of effective therapeutic tools as well as functionalize them as
potential diagnostic probes. Furthermore, the diverse modifications of aptamers for
theranostic purposes, including therapeutic agents and targeted delivery nanomaterials,
are comprehensively summarized.
TIBBİ OLARAK AÇIKLANAMAYAN SEMPTOMLAR(MUS); KISA BİR BAKIŞ
Authors: AYAZ Zeynep
Published: June 2022

Medikal değerlendirmeyle, organik bir sebebe dayandırılamayan ve en az üç aydır devam eden bu şikayetler, DSM-V’de somatik şikayetlerin MUS ve tıbbi olarak açıklanan semptomlar (MES) olarak gerekli ikiliğe ayrılması önerilmiştir. MUS tanılı hastaların, artmış anksiyete, depresyon ve bozulmuş sosyal fonksiyonları ile belirgin morbiditelerinin olduğu, ayrıca yüksek seviyede sağlık harcamalarına sebep oldukları bilinmektedir. Birinci basamakta MUS prevelansı %3-11 olarak tespit edilmiştir. Semptomlar genelde sırt ağrısı, halsizlik, güçsüzlük hissi, ekstremite ağrıları, uyku bozukluğu ve dispeptik şikayetler şeklindedir ve prognozlarının 5 yıllık periyotta kötüleştiği bilinmektedir. Herhangi bir patolojiyi atlamamak adına bu hastalar, ciddi araştırmalara tabi tutulup gereksiz tetkik ve tedaviye maruz kalabilmektedir. Mezuniyet öncesi ve/veya sonrasında MUS ile ilgili eğitim almış olan doktorların, hastaya yaklaşımı, iletişimi ve hastayı anlamadaki becerisinin daha olumlu olduğu belirtilmiştir. Hastaların yönetimi ile ilgili ortak bir tutum geliştirilmediği gibi, ülkemizde de bu konuda yapılmış herhangi bir çalışmaya rastlanmamıştır. Bu nedenle bu alanda çalışma yapılmasına ve hekimlerin farkındalığının arttırılmasına ihtiyaç vardır.
The impact of place attachment and ecological behavior on the consumer resistance toward change
Authors:   College of Business Administration, Northern Border University, Arar, Saudi Arabia, et al. Najjar
Published: June 2022

Place attachment has been considered in many disciplines such as leisure sciences or environmental psychology and through many approaches. However, little has been done on the relationship between the consumer and the place of service. In this context and based on recent findings in human attachment literature and especially place attachment theory, this research offers a conceptual framework explaining the process by which consumer resistance emerges from emotional and social bonds (objective vs subjective, internal, and external connections). This study examines how Place Attachment leads individuals to resist consumption in touristic places that could introduce changes in places in which they are born, live or act. This research aims to clarify the concept of place attachment by identifying its main dimensions and providing a better understanding of the concept of resistance toward change. We argue that attachment-resistance links have received little interest in the marketing literature. Empirically, qualitative research was carried out using in-depth interviews and ethnography, followed by a quantitative study conducted in two Tunisian regions namely Kelibia (North East) and El Djerid (South West) to highlight the behavior of consumers identified as “place attached” acting save nature and place environment. Our results show that the three sub-dimensions of place attachment-place dependence, place identity, and place affect - are significantly associated with ecological behavior. So attachment to places is an important antecedent of pro-environmental behaviors and attitudes. Our findings offer some insights for both academicians and practitioners operating in the field of tourism projects to better understand the behavior of local consumers and visitors to these places.
Adoption of social commerce: An empirical analysis in the context of Pakistan
Authors:   Jubail Technical Institute-Education Sector, Royal Commission Jubail, Saudi Arabia, et al. Solangi
Published: June 2022

Businesses are utilizing social media extensively to increase the opportunities for traditional and online businesses. However, the driving factors affecting both consumers’ and proprietors’ behavior are not well investigated so far in the context of developing countries like Pakistan. Persuading extended social commerce technology acceptance model (TAM) theory and theory of reasoned action (TRA), this paper investigates behavioral intention to use social commerce. The quantitative exploratory research approach was applied to accomplish the explicit research aims and objectives using the survey data from 2019 respondent consumers/firms active in six metropolitan cities of Pakistan. The study findings indicate a significant positive influence on behavioral intention to adopt social commerce is appraised with a greater level of perceived ease of use, usefulness, social influence, and risk factors. In the conclusion, this paper discusses research implications and utilization of the most recent ICT advancements helping business people and investors develop new commerce procedures and processes.
ЗВ'ЯЗОК ЛІПІДІВ КРОВІ ЗІ СТАТУСОМ ВІТАМІНУ D У ДІВЧАТ-ПІДЛІТКІВ З ОЛІГОМЕНОРЕЄЮ
Authors: Диннік Вікторія , Диннік Олександра , Дружиніна Альона
Published: June 2022

Мета роботи: з’ясувати зв'язок між рівнем вітаміну D в сироватці крові і ліпідним профілем у пацієнток з олігоменореєю (ОМ).
Матеріали і методи. Обстежено 62 дівчинки-підлітка з ОМ 12-18 років. Визначали натщесерце в сироватці крові концентрації 25 (OH) D, загальний холестерин (ЗХ), холестерин ліпопротеїнів високої щільності (ХС ЛПВЩ), тригліцериди (ТГ), β-ліпопротеїди. Розрахунковим шляхом визначали ХС ЛПНЩ, ХС ЛПДНЩ і коефіцієнт атерогенності (КА). Залежно від індексу маси тіла (ІМТ) підлітки були розподілені на 2 групи. Ⅰ гр. склали пацієнтки зі зниженою масою тіла, ІІ гр. – з фізіологічними її значеннями.
Результати. Тільки у 34,8 % підлітків з ОМ не визначалися будь-які зміни в ліпідному профілі. Більш ніж у третини (32,8 %) обстежених пацієнток є підвищення рівня ЗХ, причому як у дівчат з фізіологічними параметрами ІМТ, так і при його дефіциті. Майже у 60 % підлітків відзначається збільшення β-ліпопротеїдів. У 17,4 % реєструється підвищення рівня ТГ і КА, у 13,0 % виявлені підвищені значення ХС ЛПНЩ. Майже у кожної п'ятої (19,6 %) реєструвалися поєднані порушення показників ліпідного спектра крові. Більш ніж у 80 % дівчат з ОМ відзначалося зниження рівня в крові віт. D, причому у половини з них вміст віт. D був ˂20 нг/мл. Тільки 17,3 % підлітків з ОМ мали значення віт. D вище 30 нг/мл. Істотних відмінностей в залежності від того, до якої групи була віднесена дівчина, виявлено не було. На тлі зниження концентрації віт. D реєструється збільшення атерогенних фракцій ліпопротеїнів, підвищується ризик формування дисліпідемій. Побудована факторна модель асоціації ліпідів і віт. D, що підтверджує негативну залежність рівня в крові віт. D та тригліцеридів і холестерину ЛПДНЩ.
Висновки. Рівень вітаміну D впливає на вміст ліпідів у дівчат з олигоменореєю. На тлі зниження рівня вітаміну D наростають зміни в ліпідному спектрі крові, збільшується кількість підлітків з атерогенними зрушеннями в ліпідограмі. Зниження рівня вітаміну D і порушення ліпідного профілю дівчат повинні бути об'єктами первинної профілактики в зв'язку з високим ризиком формування метаболічних і кардіометаболічних порушень в майбутньому.
THE REPRODUCTIVE PATHOLOGIES OF MALE OFFSPRING BORN TO MOTHERS WITH FETOPLACENTAL INSUFFICIENCY: HORMONE DEPENDENT MECHANISMS OF DEVELOPING AND PROFYLAXIS
Authors: Seliukova Nataliia , Misiura Kateryna , Kustova Svitlana , Boiko Maryna , Korenieva Eugenia , Mykytyuk Myroslava , Karachentsev Yurii
Published: June 2022

Introduction. Fetoplacental insufficiency (FPI) is the symptom complex that substantially results not only in pregnancy development and childbirth, but in the health condition of offspring at different times. It has been shown that offspring born to mothers with FPI have morphological and functional disturbances of different systems of organs. The aims of this research were to determine hormone depended mechanisms of reproductive pathologies developing in the ontogenesis of male offspring born to different aged mothers with FPI and experimental grounding of potential preventive activity of developed pharmaceutical composition suitable for animals of this phenotype.
Materials and methods. Mature Wistar rat females of young (3-4 months) and mature (8-10 months) reproductive age have been used in the experiment. Eights groups for 7 pregnant females in each group have been formed. Modeling of FPI has been carried out by daily subcutaneous administration of the 50 % tetrachloromethane oil solution at dose of 2 ml/kg of body weight from 12th to 18th day of pregnancy. The reproductive system of male offspring has been estimated.
Results. FPI influences the sex differentiation of brain in male offspring that reflects in delaying of sexual maturity in the form of postponed testicles moving to the scrotum. FPI leads to relative estrogenization, inhibition of sperm cells differentiation and causes significant changes in antioxidant defense system in male offspring at puberty. FPI causes changes of testosterone, estradiol levels and shifts sex hormones ratio to the hyperestrogenemia in the all of mature male offspring that influence the activity of male sexual behavior, worsens spermogram and fertility.
Conclusion. Fetoplacental insufficiency in females in third trimester of pregnancy leads to marked changes in reproductive system of their male offspring born to mothers of reproductively young and reproductively mature age. Data obtained indicate the opportunity and ways to develop the medicines for prophylaxis of reproductive pathologies in children born to mothers with fetoplacental insufficiency.
ОЖИРІННЯ У ХВОРИХ НА СИНДРОМ ПОЛІКІСТОЗНИХ ЯЄЧНИКІВ. ПАТОГЕНЕТИЧНІ АСПЕКТИ ТА ПЕРСПЕКТИВНІ НАПРЯМКИ ТЕРАПІЇ
Authors: Гончарова Ольга , Архипкіна Тетяна , Любимова Лідія
Published: June 2022

Синдром полікістозних яєчників
Синдром полікістозних яєчників (СПКЯ) – поширена ендокринна патологія із складним багатофакторним патогенезом, у значній мірі пов’язаним з ожирінням (Ож) за андроїдним типом. Ож та надлишкова маса тіла (надлМТ), які мають місце у 50-80 % хворих на СПКЯ, не тільки впливають на загальний стан здоров’я, але й порушують репродуктивну функцію, метаболізм стероїдів із підвищенням рівнів вільних андрогенів, а внаслідок периферичної конверсії андрогенів – і зростанням рівня естрогенів. Андрогени посилюють ліполіз із накопиченням надлишку вільних жирних кислот і розвитком атерогенної дисліпідемії. Майже 90-100 % хворих на Ож мають інсулінорезистентність (ІР), на тлі якої розвивається компенсаторна гіперінсулінемія (ГІ). Загалом Ож, ІР та вторинна ГІ впливають на всю палітру розладів, асоційованих із СПКЯ. Тому важливим етапом лікування СПКЯ є зменшення загальної маси жирової тканини, і в цьому, окрім модифікації способу життя, провідну роль грає медикаментозна терапія. На сьогодні препаратом, що найчастіше використовується при лікуванні репродуктивної патології у жінок зі СПКЯ та Ож при наявності ІР, є метформін. Дані літератури та досліджень, проведених у клініці ДУ «ІПЕП» з обстеженням 128 жінок з класичним фенотипом СПКЯ й Ож за андроїдним типом, ГІ й ІР, свідчать, що терапія метформіном призводить до зниження рівня глюкози в сироватці крові, підвищення чутливості периферичних тканин до інсуліну, покращення ліпідного спектру крові, зниження рівня тригліцеридів, зростання глобуліну, що зв’язує статеві гормони, зменшення гіперандрогенемії. Водночас, спостерігалась лише тенденції до зниження індексу маси тіла, співвідношення обсяг талії/обсяг стегон й питомої ваги жирової маси. Тобто вплив метформіну на зниження маси тіла та розподіл жирової тканини був недостатнім. На сьогодні вважається за доцільне використання у хворих на СПКЯ з Ож та ІР препаратів з групи агоністів глюкагоноподібного пептиду-1 (GLP-1), які призводять до більш значного зменшення індексу маси тіла та обсягу талії порівняно з метформіном. З'являються дані про значне поліпшення метаболічних та гормональних показників, а також про відновлення циклічності менструальних циклів після застосування комбінованої терапії агоністом GLP-1 з метформіном. Дана комбінація також дає можливість використовувати більш низькі дози обох препаратів, що не супроводжується суттєвою різницею у частоті виникнення та ступені тяжкості можливих побічних ефектів в порівнянні з монотерапією агоністом GLP-1 або метформіном.
News Coverage of Colorectal Cancer on Google News: Descriptive Study
Authors: Basch Corey H , Hillyer Grace C , Jacques Erin T
Published: June 2022

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death in the United States. The incidence and prevalence of CRC have historically increased with age. Although rates of CRC in the United States have been decreasing over the past decades among those aged ≥65 years, there has been an uptick among those in younger age brackets. Google News is one of the biggest traffic drivers to top news sites. It aggregates and shares news highlights from multiple sources worldwide and organizes them by content type. Despite the widespread use of Google News, research is lacking on the type of CRC content represented in this news source. 

Objective

The purpose of this study was to analyze content related to CRC screening and prevention in Google News articles published during National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (March 2022).

Methods

Data collection for this cross-sectional study was conducted in March 2022—National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Using the term colorectal cancer, 100 English-language Google News articles were extracted and coded for content. A combined approach—deductive and inductive coding—was utilized. Descriptive analyses were conducted, and frequency distributions were reported. Univariable analyses were performed to assess differences between articles that mentioned CRC screening and those that did not via chi-square tests.

Results

Of the 100 articles reviewed, nearly half (n=49, 49%) were created by health news organizations, and another 27% (n=27) were created by television news services. The predominant themes in the content included age at the onset of disease (n=59, 59%), mortality related to CRC (n=57, 57%), and the severity of disease (n=50, 50%). Only 18% (n=18) of articles discussed CRC disparities, 23% (n=23) mentioned that there are hereditary forms of the disease, 36% (n=36) spoke of colonoscopy to screen for the disease, and 37% (n=37) mentioned how the disease is treated. Although most articles mentioned CRC screening (n=61, 61%), it was striking that sex was only mentioned in 34% (21/61) of these articles, colonoscopy was mentioned in 46% (28/61), and diet was mentioned in 30% (18/61).

Conclusions

Heightening the public’s awareness of this disease is important, but it is critical that messages related to how preventable this cancer is, who is the most likely to develop CRC, and what can be done to detect it in the early stages when the disease is the most curable be the critical elements of dialogue, particularly during National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. There is a need to disseminate information about early-onset CRC and the importance of screening, especially among populations with low rates of uptake. Web-based news is potentially an underutilized communication mechanism for promoting CRC screenings as secondary prevention measures for high-risk groups.
Ecological burden of e-waste in Bangladesh: participant’s characteristics and methods of cross-sectional assessment to measure the exposure to e-waste and associated health outcomes (Preprint)
Authors: Parvez Sarker Masud , Hasan Shaikh Sharif , Knibbs Luke D , Jahan Farjana , Rahman Mahbubur , Raqib Rubhana , Islam Nafisa , Aich Nirupam , Moniruzzaman Mohammad , Islam Zahir , Fujimura Masatake , Sly Peter D
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Electronic waste (e-waste) is a rapidly growing waste stream worldwide, and Bangladesh is a hub of e-waste handling. Informal e-waste recycling operations involve crude methods for dismantling, repairing, sorting, and recycling electronic goods with bare hands and without personal health protections. Direct inhalation or dermal exposure to toxicants during informal recycle is common. Evidence suggests that e-waste derived toxicants pollute the terrestrial ecosystem and have been linked with adverse health effects. However, e-waste recycling-related occupational health hazards have not been adequately explored in the context of Bangladesh.

OBJECTIVE

Our study aims to expand the current understanding of exposure to e-waste. This study will measure the metal concentrations in biological and environmental samples and evaluate the relationship between heavy metals and the biochemical systems of the e-waste workers.

METHODS

The study employs a cross-sectional study design consisting of an exposed and a non-exposed control site. The trained team collected information on individual exposures, detailed work/medical history, and collected biological samples (blood, urine, and hair) from each subject. This study will measure heavy metal levels (lead, cadmium, and mercury) and biochemical parameters (hematological, hormonal, renal, and others) from biological samples with reported physical function as outcomes of interest. In addition, we also collected soil and dust samples from both exposed and non-exposed control sites to measure the health risk. All the environmental samples will be analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) to determine metal concentrations.

RESULTS

The protocol has been approved by the Institutional Review Boards of the International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) and the University of Queensland’s (UQ) Human Behavioural Ethics Committee. Informed written consent was obtained from all participants. We recruited 199 workers from the e-waste sites with at least 5 years of exposure and 104 control subjects with no industrial or e-waste exposure. Sample analysis is estimated to be completed in 2022.

CONCLUSIONS

Although many studies have identified potential adverse health outcomes from exposure to e-waste, there is a lack of published epidemiologic research in Bangladesh. Research in this field is particularly pressing in the context of the current e-waste trend and the need to deepen understanding of exposures and outcomes.
Patient Experience and Feedback after Use of an EHR-integrated COVID-19 Symptom Checker (Preprint)
Authors: Liu Andrew Wayne , Odisho Anobel Youhana , Brown 3rd William , Gonzales Ralph , Neinstein Aaron B , Judson Timothy
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Symptom checkers have been widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic to alleviate strain on health systems and offer patients a 24/7 self-service triage option. Although studies suggest that users may positively perceive online symptom checkers, no studies have quantified user feedback after use of an electronic health record (EHR)-integrated COVID-19 symptom checker with self-scheduling functionality.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to understand user experience, user satisfaction, and user-reported alternatives to use of a COVID-19 symptom checker with self-triage and self-scheduling functionality.

METHODS

We launched a patient-portal based self-triage and self-scheduling tool in March 2020 for patients with COVID-19 symptoms, exposures, or questions. We made an optional, anonymous Qualtrics survey available to patients immediately after they completed the symptom checker.

RESULTS

Between December 16th, 2021 and March 28th, 2022, there were 395 unique responses to the survey. Overall, respondents reported high satisfaction across all demographics, with a median rating of 8 out of 10, and 47.6% of respondents giving a rating of 9 or 10 out of 10. User satisfaction scores were not associated with any demographic factors. The most common user-reported alternatives had the online tool not been available were calling the COVID-19 telephone hotline and sending a patient-portal message to their physician for advice. The ability to schedule a test online was the most important symptom checker feature for respondents. The most common categories of user feedback were regarding other COVID-19 services (e.g. telephone hotline), policies or procedures, or requesting additional features or functionality.

CONCLUSIONS

The study provides insight for the implementation and improvement of COVID-19 symptom checkers to ensure high user satisfaction. Analysis suggests that COVID-19 symptom checkers with self-triage and self-scheduling functionality may have high overall user satisfaction, regardless of user demographics. By allowing users to self-triage and self-schedule tests and visits, tools like this may prevent unnecessary calls and messages to clinicians. Individual feedback suggested that the user experience for this type of tool is highly dependent on the organization's operational workflows for COVID-19 testing and care.