bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic effects of hierarchical porous structure, acidity and nickel metal for hydro-liquefaction of thermal extracts from lignite over Ni/ZSM-5
Authors: Li Ning , Ren Shibiao , Jiang Tao , Yan Jingchong , Wang Zhicai , Lei Zhiping , Pan Chunxiu , Kang Shigang , Li Zhanku , Shui Hengfu
Published: May 2022

Hydro-liquefaction of the thermal extracts (HPC) from lignite was investigated over ZSM-5 and Ni/ZSM-5 with hierarchical pores or not. The thermal extracts dissolved (HPC-S) and deposited (HPC-D) at room temperature were prepared to compare their hydro-liquefaction performances. Combined to the hydrogenation properties of ZSM-5 and Ni/ZSM-5 catalysts for tetralin as a model compound, the roles of the porous structure, acidity and hydrogenation component in Ni/ZSM-5 for hydro-liquefaction of HPC were investigated. A synergy of the porous structures, nickel metal and acidity for hydro-liquefaction of HPC-S over Ni/ZSM-5 catalyst was found. During hydro-liquefaction, it is essential for the presence of nickel in the catalyst, since the parts of the benzene rings in HPC-S are first saturated by hydrogen under the role nickel. Then a certain acidity especially Brønsted acid is required in the catalyst to open the saturated benzene rings. Since there are the macromolecular organic compounds in the HPC-S, the hierarchical porous structures are required in the catalyst to promote the hydro-liquefaction performance due to their improvement on the mass transfer diffusion efficiency.
Resilience and GRIT among undergraduate nursing students during the COVID 19 pandemic
Authors: Munn Allison C. , George Tracy P. , Phillips Tiffany A. , Kershner Sarah H. , Hucks J. Marty
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Grit and resilience are related but separate concepts. Grit is a long-term commitment toward goals, and it impacts student success and academic achievement. Resilience is the ability of students to recover from stress. Both are important factors in nursing students.

Methods

This descriptive study included surveys measuring demographics, grit, and resilience among two cohorts of senior nursing students in their last semester and explored challenges and difficulties experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

The mean grit score for all students was 4.0 (0.52) and the mean resilience score was 3.63 (0.73). Directed content analysis of the ten open-ended survey questions revealed three themes: Impact on Education, Personal Impact, and Coping Mechanisms.

Conclusions

Grit and resilience are important factors that can contribute to success in nursing programs and as graduate nurses in the healthcare settings.
Design of ER damper for recoil length minimization: A case study on gun recoil system
Authors: Phan Nguyen Huu , Patil Santosh R. , Gawade Sanjaykumar , Shirguppikar Shailesh S. , Ly Nguyen Trong , Tam Nguyen Chi , Thanh Le Thi Phuong
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Recoil length minimization is always been a top concern in various structural, industrial, and defence applications. The traditional passive recoil system is not able to respond quickly to the changes in the impact force. These limitations can be overcome by introducing a semi-active recoil system, which comprises an intelligent fluid damper.

Design, methodology, and approach

The electrorheological (ER) fluid, which responds to the applied electric field and exhibits high yield strength, will be a proper damper for the recoil system. An ER damper can bring back the vibrating system to its equilibrium in a brief period. In this article, the general design procedure of an ER fluid semi-active damper has been developed, which is suitable for a recoil system. The equations of damping forces (viscous, quadratic, and ER) are modified in terms of geometric parameter, namely the piston diameter (D
P), which can be selected to obtain the desired dynamic range (greater than two) and optimum damping force. With the MATLAB software, the damper and spring specifications are fixed to meet the required conditions, viz. the dynamic range should be greater than two, and the total damping and spring force should counter-recoil the system.

Findings

Results obtained for a case study of gunfire conclude that the recoil system developed using design specifications exhibits desired performance with maximum recoil of 75.59 mm at 80°, angle of elevation, which is within the allowable range of 150 mm. It is shown that the rate of firing can be increased by decreasing the recoil length.

Originality and value

The novel procedure for the design of ER damper outlined in this work will be helpful for any recoil length minimization problem.
Refined descriptive sampling simulated annealing algorithm for solving the traveling salesman problem
Authors: Cherabli Meriem , Ourbih-Tari Megdouda , Boubalou Meriem
Published: May 2022

The simulated annealing (SA) algorithm is a popular intelligent optimization algorithm which has been successfully applied in many fields. In this paper,
we propose a software component under the Windows environment called goRDS which implements a refined descriptive sampling (RDS) number generator of high quality in the MATLAB programming language. The aim of this generator is to sample random inputs through the RDS method to be used in the Simple SA algorithm with swap operator. In this way, the new probabilistic meta-heuristic algorithm called RDS-SA algorithm will enhance the simple SA algorithm with swap operator, the SA algorithm and possibly its variants with solutions of better quality and precision. Towards this goal, the goRDS generator was highly tested by adequate statistical tests and compared statistically to the random number generator (RNG) of MATLAB, and it was proved that goRDS has passed all tests better. Simulation experiments were carried out on the benchmark traveling salesman problem (TSP) and the results show that the solutions obtained with the RDS-SA algorithm are of better quality and precision than those of the simple SA algorithm with swap operator, since the software component goRDS represents the probability behavior of the SA input random variables better than the usual RNG.
Spatially selective excitation of spin dynamics in magneto-photonic crystals by spectrally tunable ultrashort laser pulses
Authors: Sylgacheva Daria A. , Khokhlov Nikolai E. , Gerevenkov Petr I. , Filatov Iaroslav A. , Kozhaev Mikhail A. , Savochkin Igor V. , Kalish Andrey N. , Kalashnikova Alexandra M. , Belotelov Vladimir I.
Published: May 2022

In this work, we tackle the problem of the spatially selective optical excitation of spin dynamics in structures with multiple magnetic layers. The 120 fs circularly polarized laser pulses were used to launch magnetization precession in an all-dielectric magneto-photonic crystals (MPC) formed by magnetic layers sandwiched between and inside two magnetic Bragg mirrors. Optical pump-probe experiments reveal magnetization precession triggered via ultrafast inverse Faraday effect with an amplitude strongly dependent on the pump central wavelength: maxima of the amplitude are achieved for the wavelength tuned at the cavity resonance and at the edge of the photonic bandgap. The optical impact on the spins caused by the inverse Faraday effect and spectrum of this effect are found to correlate mostly to the direct Faraday effect. We show that even though the pump laser pulses propagate along the whole structure tuning their wavelength allows localization of a larger spin precession either in the cavity layer or in the Bragg mirror layers selectively. The results pave the way to the ultrafast optical control of magnetization dynamics at a sub-wavelength scale that is vital for modern magneto-photonics and magnonics.
Importance of biopsy site selection for peritoneal regression grading score (PRGS) in peritoneal metastasis treated with repeated pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC)
Authors: Fallah Mojib , Detlefsen Sönke , Ainsworth Alan P. , Fristrup Claus W. , Mortensen Michael B. , Pfeiffer Per , Tarpgaard Line S. , Graversen Martin
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The four-tiered peritoneal regression grading score (PRGS) is used for histological response evaluation in patients with peritoneal metastasis (PM) treated with pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC). Four quadrant biopsies (QBs) from the parietal peritoneum should be assessed by PRGS, but consensus on biopsy site strategy for follow-up biopsies during repeated PIPACs is lacking. We aimed to evaluate whether there is a difference between PRGS in QBs from clips marked PM (QB-CM) compared to biopsies from PM with the visually most malignant features (worst biopsy, WB).

Methods

Prospective, descriptive study. During the first PIPAC, index QBs sites were marked with metal clips. During the second PIPAC, an independent surgical oncologist selected biopsy site for WB and biopsies were taken from QB-CM and WB. One blinded pathologist evaluated all biopsies according to PRGS. From each biopsy, three step sections were stained H&E, followed by an immunostained section, and another three step sections stained H&E.

Results

Thirty-four patients were included from March 2020 to May 2021. Median age 64 years. Maximum mean PRGS in QB-CM at PIPAC 1 was 3.3 (SD 1.2). Maximum mean PRGS in QB-CM at PIPAC 2 was 2.6 (SD 1.2), whereas mean PRGS in WB at PIPAC 2 was 2.4 (SD 1.3). At PIPAC 2, there was agreement between maximum PRGS from QB-CM and PRGS from WB in 21 patients. Maximum PRGS from QB-CM was higher in nine and lower in four patients, compared to PRGS from WB.

Conclusions

Biopsies from QB-CM did not overestimate treatment response compared to biopsies from WB.
Square-mean inertial manifolds for stochastic differential equations
Authors: Le Thi Oanh
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we prove the existence of a square-mean inertial manifold for a class of semilinear stochastic differential equations in a real separable Hilbert space. An example is given to illustrate our results.
Politically Viable U.S. Electoral College Reform
Authors: Wise Geoffrey
Published: May 2022

The U.S. Electoral College’s winner-take-all method of awarding electoral votes creates a high susceptibility to disputes and errors, but past reform attempts have glossed over their likely disruptions to power balances among states and between the two political parties. This gap is filled by connecting pragmatic models of power shifts and election disputability to a historically informed probabilistic model of future elections. This methodology is then applied to a continuum of reform proposals between the current system and the Lodge-Gossett version of a national popular vote. The results show that a modest smoothing of winner-take-all near the toss-up point delivers a good tradeoff between reducing dispute frequency and distorting power balances, enabling meaningful reform in an era of high polarization. This conclusion holds for extrapolation of the current national landscape into near-future elections, as well as for more arbitrary distributions of partisans among states to represent far-future landscapes. However, as electoral award smoothing diminishes the frequency of disputed elections, it inevitably broadens their scope.
Voting for Eurosceptic Parties and Societal Polarization in the Aftermath of the European Sovereign Debt Crisis
Authors: Rump Maike
Published: May 2022

The question of whether people voting for Eurosceptic parties in almost every European country is simply a democratic way of expressing a political opinion, or if it presents a threat to democracy by giving a voice to Eurosceptic parties that challenge the EU in a populist manner, has not lost its currency since the 2008 European sovereign dept crisis. In fact, at the first glance, the situation of anti-Corona protestors in Canada or Germany seems comparable. But contrary to some scholars, I argue that it was the economic crisis that first visualized the interdependency of the EU members to the citizens, and was, therefore, the ideal setting for populists to create an atmosphere of mistrust, with the help of the media in some countries. This Research Note addresses the undertheorized link between populism and crisis, by developing a theoretical model focussing on the aggregate level, which shows that EU-membership duration is a crucial factor in explaining voting for Eurosceptic parties. I use data from the European Social Survey and compare a period from 2002 to 2016, conducting trend analysis and difference-in-difference-estimation. My analysis reveals that Eurosceptic parties are more successful in those countries, where anti-EU protest has already been established before. In addition, I find a delayed crisis effect. This could be important for our understanding of the current Covid-19-crisis, which is a health crisis in first place, but a threat to democratic values and instrumentalized by populists as well.
Landtag elections in Germany as an indicator of federal party and political trends
Authors:   Institute of Europe of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Belov Vladislav
Published: May 2022

In March and May 2022, landtag elections were held in western German states of Saarland, Schleswig-Holstein and North Rhine-Westphalia, with results largely reflecting the developments at federal level: growing popularity of Union 90/Die Grünen, ongoing rivalry between SPD and CDU, FDP's fight for seats in regional parliaments and continuation of crisis processes in „Left“ and „Alternative for Germany“ parties. For the first time in election campaign of the two states, foreign policy played an important role, namely the factor of Ukraine. The author analyzes results of the elections and assesses their impact on federal party and political processes in Germany.
Subcellular localization of Type VI secretion system assembly in response to cell–cell contact
Authors: Lin Lin , Capozzoli Raffaella , Ferrand Alexia , Plum Miro , Vettiger Andrea , Basler Marek
Published: May 2022

Bacteria require a number of systems, including the type VI secretion system (T6SS), for interbacterial competition and pathogenesis. The T6SS is a large nanomachine that can deliver toxins directly across membranes of proximal target cells. Since major reassembly of T6SS is necessary after each secretion event, accurate timing and localization of T6SS assembly can lower the cost of protein translocation. Although critically important, mechanisms underlying spatiotemporal regulation of T6SS assembly remain poorly understood. Here, we used super‐resolution live‐cell imaging to show that while Acinetobacter and Burkholderia thailandensis can assemble T6SS at any site, a significant subset of T6SS assemblies localizes precisely to the site of contact between neighboring bacteria. We identified a class of diverse, previously uncharacterized, periplasmic proteins required for this dynamic localization of T6SS to cell–cell contact (TslA). This precise localization is also dependent on the outer membrane porin OmpA. Our analysis links transmembrane communication to accurate timing and localization of T6SS assembly as well as uncovers a pathway allowing bacterial cells to respond to cell–cell contact during interbacterial competition.
Malignancy rates in thyroid nodules: a long-term cohort study of 17,592 patients
Authors: Grussendorf M , Ruschenburg I , Brabant G
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Ultrasound diagnosis of thyroid nodules has greatly increased their detection rate. Their risk for malignancy is estimated between 7 and 15% in data from specialized centers which are used for guidelines recommendations. This high rate causes considerable anxiety to patients upon first diagnosis. Here, we retrospectively analyzed the malignancy rate of sonographically diagnosed nodules larger than 1 cm from a primary/secondary care center when long-term longitudinal follow-up was included.

Patients/methods

In the study, 17,592 patients were diagnosed with a thyroid nodule larger than 1 cm, of whom 7776 were assessed by fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and 9816 by sonography alone. 9568 patients were initially discharged due to innocent results of FNAC and/or ultrasound. In 1904 patients, definitive histology was obtained, and 6731 cases were included in the long-term follow-up (up to 23 years, median 5 years).

Results

Malignancy was histologically confirmed in 189 patients (1.1% of all) when excluding accidentally diagnosed papillary microcarcinomas. 155 were diagnosed during the first year of management, 25 in years 2–5 of follow-up, 9 in years 6–10 and nil in 1165 patients followed beyond 10 years.

Conclusions

The malignancy rate of thyroid nodules from primary/secondary care was much lower than that previously reported. During follow-up for more than 5 years, their rate rapidly dropped to less than 1/1000 cases. This low malignancy rate may help to reassure patients first confronted with the diagnosis of a thyroid nodule, substantially reduce their anxiety and avoid unwarranted diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
Iodine concentration level of iodized dietary salt and its associated factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ewunie Temesgen Muche , Kabthymer Robel Hussen , Hailu Samrawit , Mareg Moges , Mengie Tesfa , Sisay Daniel , Arage Getachew
Published: May 2022

Background

Iodine deficiency disorder (IDD) is a major public health problem in Ethiopia. The availability of adequate iodized dietary salt at the household level is immensely important. Hence, this review aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of adequate iodine concentration level of iodized dietary salt at the household level and its associated factors in Ethiopia.

Methods

We searched the literature using electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Embase) and gray literature from January 9, 2022, to February 25, 2022. The rapid test kit was used to measure the adequacy of iodine level of dietary salt. The quality of studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. Heterogeneity between studies was checked using I2 test statistics and publication bias was checked using funnel plot and Egger’s statistical test at a 5% significance level. A random-effects model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence of the outcome variable and its determinants in Ethiopia.

Results

The search identified 149 studies of which 18 studies were included with a total of 10,556 participants. The pooled prevalence of adequate iodine levels of iodized salt in Ethiopia was 44.37% (95% CI: 35.85-52.88). Women who had formal education (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.99 (95% CI: 1.47–2.48)), good knowledge of women (AOR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.36–3.36), packed iodized salt (AOR = 3.85 (95% CI: 1.88–7.87)) and storage of iodized salt at home for less than 2 months (AOR = 2.66 (95% CI: 2.11–3.35) were the significant factors.

Conclusion

This review suggests that the pooled prevalence of adequate iodine levels was low. Our finding highlights the need for considering the educational status, knowledge, and duration of salt storage to enhance the prevalence of adequate levels of iodized salt at the national level.
Physical exercise improves mitochondrial function in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Ignacio Daniele Leão , Fortunato Rodrigo Soares , Silvestre Diego , Matta Leonardo , de Vansconcelos Andressa Lima , Carvalho Denise Pires , Galina Antonio , Werneck-de-Castro João Pedro , Cavalcanti-de-Albuquerque João Paulo
Published: May 2022

Estrogen deficiency causes metabolic disorders in humans and rodents, including in part due to changes in energy expenditure. We have shown previously that skeletal muscle mitochondrial function is compromised in ovariectomized (Ovx) rats. Since physical exercise is a powerful strategy to improve skeletal muscle mitochondrial content and function, we hypothesize that exercise training would counteract the deficiency-induced skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction in Ovx rats. We report that exercised Ovx rats, at 60–65% of maximal exercise capacity for 8 weeks, exhibited less fat accumulation and body weight gain compared with sedentary controls. Treadmill exercise training decreased muscle lactate production, indicating a shift to mitochondrial oxidative metabolism. Furthermore, reduced soleus muscle mitochondrial oxygen consumption confirmed that estrogen deficiency is detrimental to mitochondrial function. However, exercise restored mitochondrial oxygen consumption in Ovx rats, achieving similar levels as in exercised control rats. Exercise-induced skeletal muscle peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α expression was similar in both groups. Therefore, the mechanisms by which exercise improves mitochondrial oxygen consumption appears to be different in Ovx-exercised and sham-exercised rats. While there was an increase in mitochondrial content in sham-exercised rats, demonstrated by a greater citrate synthase activity, no induction was observed in Ovx-exercised rats. Normalizing mitochondrial respiratory capacity by citrate synthase activity indicates a better oxidative phosphorylation efficiency in the Ovx-exercised group. In conclusion, physical exercise sustains mitochondrial function in ovarian hormone-deficient rats through a non-conventional mitochondrial content-independent manner.
Endometriosis and the effects of dietary interventions: what are we looking for?
Authors: Nap Annemiek , de Roos Nicole
Published: May 2022

Endometriosis is the most prevalent benign gynaecologic disease with invalidating effects on the quality of life and decreased economic productivity. As pharmacologic and surgical treatment are only partially effective, women look for self-management strategies in order to control their symptoms. Many dietary interventions have been claimed successful. But it is unclear whether these effects are caused by the idea of taking control of the symptoms by adhering to a diet or by the dietary intervention itself. In order to gain more evidence with regard to the mechanisms behind the effect of dietary intervention in the management of endometriosis, a number of issues need to be addressed for future studies. First, we need clearly defined endpoints in our studies. Secondly, we have to be aware of the difference between the effects of diet on the risk of developing endometriosis and the effects of diet on symptoms in women with already established endometriosis. Thirdly, it may be difficult to strictly define the intervention diet and the control or placebo diet. Fourthly, we have to define endometriosis-related as well as patient-related factors that may influence the success of a dietary intervention. Fifthly, we have to understand the biological mechanisms behind the perceived effects of dietary interventions. These issues will be addressed in this opinion paper.

Lay summary

Endometriosis, defined as the presence of endometrium-like tissue located outside the womb, is a gynaecologic disease that affects many women. They experience severe pain, making it difficult for them to go to school or work. Medication or surgery is often not enough to relieve their pain. Therefore, these women look for ways to suppress their pain by changing their way of life. Changing their diet is an option that is often chosen by women with endometriosis. Many women experience that changing their diet helps to suppress pain symptoms. But it is not clear why changing the diet is effective. Processes in the body could be changed by taking or avoiding specific nutrients, but the effect could also be caused by the empowerment that women experience by adhering to a diet. If we want to learn more about the effect of diet on endometriosis, we have to pay attention to the following issues: first, it is important to exactly define the goal of a new study. Secondly, we have to realize that there is a difference between the study of the effect of diet on the risk of developing endometriosis and the effect of diet on endometriosis that has already developed. Thirdly, we have to realize that it can be difficult to define what the diet contains and how a control group should be defined. Fourthly, it is important to define factors that make it difficult to adhere to a diet. Fifthly, we need to try to understand what happens in the body that may cause the effect of a diet in endometriosis. In this opinion paper, these issues will be addressed.
Artificial Intelligence and Stroke Management
Authors: Garcia-Perez Mayte
Published: May 2022

As a burgeoning technology, artificial intelligence has been utilized in numerous domains, including stroke prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, and has demonstrated considerable promise. The combination of artificial intelligence and big data can be utilized for accurate identification of stroke high-risk groups, automatic etiology classification, and assistance in the formulation of acute stroke and secondary prevention strategies, thereby enhancing the rehabilitation treatment effect for stroke patients. This article discusses the accomplishments made in artificial intelligence research for stroke prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Is Purified Water the Most Healthy Choice?
Authors: Soow Lancer
Published: May 2022

Consistently consuming purified water may be harmful. Drinking filtered water has been shown to provide short-term system cleaning advantages in studies. Mineral deficiencies and acidity in the body develop more quickly in those who drink clean water for an extended period of time. Avoid consuming water that has been purified except under certain circumstances. Longevity is linked to the usage of hard water (high in minerals) on a regular basis. Using filtered water for a long period of time has a greater impact on health.
Slankstelinės arterijos hipoplazijos ir galvos smegenų kraujotakos sutrikimo vertebrobaziliniame baseine tyrimas
Authors:   , Vilimas Augenijus
Published: May 2022

Investigation of vertebral artery hypoplasia and vertebrobasilar cerebrovascular accident
PROTEIN MARKERS OF HYPOXIA AND ANGIOGENESIS IN TEAR FLUID OF PATIENTS WITH TRAUMATIC CORNEAL INJURY
Authors:   Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine, Gavrylyak I. V.
Published: May 2022

The aim of our study was to evaluate tear levels of some protein endpoints that can reflect intensities of hypoxia, angiogenesis and tissue remodeling in wounded cornea. Methods. We examined 21 patients (21 eyes) with nonpenetrating corneal injuries. The patients underwent standard ophthalmological examination including previous history and ocular symptoms, visual acuity test, complete anterior and posterior eye segments examination using slit lamp biomicroscopy, evaluation of corneal staining with fluorescein, ophthalmoscopy. Healthy volunteers (n = 10) served as a control. Tear fluid was collected from patients and control volunteers with the use of a disposable tip micropipette. From the lower arch of the conjunctiva without instillation of anesthetic, tears were collected in a sterile plastic Eppendorf tube and frozen at -20 oC before laboratory examination. Proteins of tear fluids were separated by SDS-PAGE (loading 50 µg total protein per track). Then, levels of hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and angiostatins were measured by western blot. Active MMP-9 levels were evaluated by gelatin zymography. The results of blot and zymography assays were processed by densitometric software and then analyzed statistically with the use of Mann-Whitney U-test. Results. Elevated HIF-1α (P<0.001) and angiostatins (P<0.05) levels were revealed by western blot in tear fluid samples collected from patients with injured cornea in comparison with the control group. It is noteworthy that extremely low amounts of VEGF were detected in tear fluid from injured eyes, in spite of abundance of its transcription inducer HIF-1α. Dramatically increased levels of active MMP-9 were found in the tear fluids of patients with corneal wounds, while no significant collagenolytic activity was observed in tears from healthy eyes. There is a strong correlation between extent of corneal lesions and changes in markers expression. Conclusions. Tear levels of HIF-1α and angiostatin as well as MMP-9 activity could represent valuable biomarkers of corneal injury severity in traumatic eye.
LIMITED PROTEOLYSIS OF FIBRINOGEN αC-REGION REVEALS ITS STRUCTURE
Authors:   Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Kucheriavyi Y.
Published: May 2022

Aim. The purpose of our study was to compare hydrolytic action of proteases from Gloydius halys halys, Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix and Calloselasma rhodostoma rhodostoma snake venoms and from Bacillus thuringiensis вар. israelensis IMV B-7465 culture medium on αC-regions of fibrinogen molecule. Methods. Products of hydrolysis were characterized by SDS-PAGE under reducing conditions with following Western-Blot using the mouse monoclonal 1-5А (anti-Aα509-610) and ІІ-5С (anti-Aα20-78) antibody. MALDI-TOF analysis of fibrinogen hydrolysis products was performed using a Voyager-DE. Results. Combination of SDS-PAGE, FPLC and MALDI-TOF analysis enabled to detect the peptide bonds cleaved by studied proteases. In particular proteases from Gloydius halys halys and Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix snake venoms cleaved peptide bond Aα413-414. Action of protease from Calloselasma rhodostoma rhodostoma on fibrinogen led to the formation of hydrolytic product generated from C-terminal portion of Aα-chain that corresponded to fragments generated by enzymes from two other snakes. On the other hand protease from Bacillus thuringiensis вар. israelensis IMV B-7465 culture medium cleaved peptide bond Aα504-505. Conclusions. Use of limited proteolysis technique as the source of additional information for computer modeling allowed us to propose an improved model of 3D-structure of fibrinogen αC-regions. This model takes into account the behavior of αC-regions in the physiological condition and contributes to the general knowledge about fibrinogen structure.
THE ACQUISITION OF RESISTANCE IN HUMAN NON-SMALL LUNG ADENOCARCINOMA MOR CELLS IS ASSOCIATED WITH UP-REGULATION OF ADAPTOR PROTEIN RUK/CIN85 AND EPITHELIAL-TO-MESENCHYMAL TRANSITION (EMT)
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University, Kyiv, Ukraine, Raynich Y.
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to elucidate the regulatory role of Ruk/CIN85 in chemoresistance and EMT using human NSCLC MOR cells as a model. Methods. MOR (ECACC 84112312) cell line and drug-resistant cell line MOR/0.2R (ECACC 96042335) were cultured under standard conditions in DMEM medium. Knockdown of Ruk/CIN85 in MOR/0.2R cells was performed using shRNA lentiviral technology. Expression levels of Ruk/CIN85, vimentin and E-cadherin were estimated by RT-PCR. Results and Discussion. According to the results of qPCR, MOR/0.R cells showed an extremely higher level of Ruk/CIN85 mRNA expression, more than 10 times higher than the parental MOR cells. Preliminary data revealed that knockdown of Ruk/CIN85 in the MOR/0.2R cells led to significant decrease of their resistance to doxorubicin and development of epithelial phenotype. High content of RukCIN85 in doxorubicin-resistant (MOR/R) cells strongly correlate with their mesenchymal phenotype (high expression level of vimentin and low – E-cadherin), while its down-regulation is followed by restoration of expression values characteristic of parental MOR cells. Conclusions. In summary, high expression level of Ruk/CIN85 in doxorubicin-resistant MOR cells and the reversion of EMT-related transcriptome parameters and sensitivity to drug due to knockdown of adaptor protein in this subline suggests its involvement in regulation of EMT as well as cancer cells chemoresistance. Thus, the adaptor protein Ruk/CIN85 can be considered as a tissue-specific marker of carcinogenesis and perspective target for drug development.
GRAPHENE OXIDE AFFECT THE EXPRESSION OF PROLIFERATION RELATED GENES AND microRNA IN NORMAL HUMAN ASTROCYTES
Authors:   Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Rudnytska O.
Published: May 2022

Aim. In this study we investigate the impact of low doses of graphene oxide on the expression of key regulatory genes which control cell proliferation as well as microRNAs in normal human astrocytes. Methods. The expression level of genes related to cell proliferation was studied by real-time qPCR in normal human astrocytes line NHA/TS (Cambrex Bio Science, Walkersville, MD, USA) using SYBRGreen Mix and specific for each mRNA forward and reverse primers. These astrocytes were treated with graphene oxide (1 and 4 ng/ml of medium) for 24 hrs. Graphene oxide (2 mg/ml, dispersion in water) was received from Sigma-Aldrich Chemie GmbH, Germany. Total RNA was extracted using TRIZOL reagent. For reverse transcription of mRNAs we used Thermo Scientific Verso cDNA Synthesis Kit (Germany). The values of mRNA expressions were normalized to the level of ACTB mRNA and represented as percent of control (100 %). For polyadenylation and reverse transcription of miRNAs we used Mir-X miRNA First-Strand Synthesis Kit (Takara, Japan). The expression level of microRNAs was studied by real-time qPCR using SYBRGreen Mix and specific for each miRNA forward primers and universal reverse primer. For normalization of microRNA expressions the level of U6 RNA expression was used. Results. It was shown that the expression level of TOB1, HSPA5, EDEM1, MYBL1, and MYBL2 significantly increased in normal human astrocytes line NHA/TS, which were treated with graphene oxide (1 and 4 ng/ml of medium) for 24 hrs. Up-regulation of these genes expression was dose-dependent: bigger dose of graphene oxide (4 ng/ml of medium) introduced more significant changes in the expression of all these genes. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis of 3′-untranslated regions of mRNA allowed identifying binding sites of microRNA: miR-19a for MYBL1, miR-143 for MYBL2 and miR-182 for TOB1. It was also shown that the expression of all these microRNA significantly down-regulated by graphene oxide, supporting the idea of both post-transcriptional and transcriptional regulation of MYBL1, MYBL2 and TOB1 gene expressions. Conclusions. Graphene oxide significantly disturbs genome stability by up-regulation of the expression of key regulatory genes and down-regulation of microRNA.
GLUTAMINE DEPRIVATION AFFECTS THE EXPRESSION OF GENES WHICH CONTROL PYRUVATE DEHYDROGENASE ACTIVITY: THE IMPACT OF ERN1 KNOCKDOWN
Authors:   Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Sliusar M.
Published: May 2022

The aim of the current investigation was to study the expression of genes encoded pyruvate dehydrogenase subunits (PDHA1, PDHB, PDHX, DLAT, and DLD) in U87 glioma cells in response to glutamine deprivation in U87 glioma cells in relation to knockdown of ERN1 for evaluation of a possible dependence of the expression of these important regulatory genes from glutamine supply and ERN1 signaling. Methods. The expression of PDHA1, PDHB, PDHX, DLAT, and DLD genes was studied by real-time qPCR in control U87 glioma cells (transfected by vector) and cells with knockdown of ERN1 (transfected by dnERN1) after exposure to glutamine deprivation condition. Total RNA was extracted from glioma cells using TRIZOL reagent. An RNA quantity as well as spectral characteristics was measured using NanoDrop One. For reverse transcription of mRNAs we used Thermo Scientific Verso cDNA Synthesis Kit (Germany). The values of mRNA expressions were normalized to the level of ACTB mRNA and represented as percent of control (100 %). Results. It was shown that the expression level of PDH1, PDHB, DLAT, and DLD genes was down-regulated in control glioma cells treated by glutamine deprivation. At the same time, ERN1 knockdown is suppressed the effect of glutamine deprivation on PDHB and DLD gene expressions in glioma cells, but did not change significantly the impact of glutamine deprivation on the expression of PDHA1, DLAT, and PDHX genes. Conclusions. The results of this investigation demonstrated that the expression of PDH1, PDHB, PDHX, DLAT, and DLD genes was significantly affected by exposure of U87 glioma cells under glutamine deprivation condition and that the effect of glutamine deprivation on the expression of most these genes was modified in cells with knockdown of ERN1, a major signaling pathway of the endoplasmic reticulum stress.
Partial deactivation of default-mode brain network during simple motor task execution
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine, Omelchenko O.M. , Makarchuk M.Y. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine, Bondarenko M.P. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine, Bondarenko O.V. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: May 2022

We used model based functional MRI independent component analysis approach for the detection and characterization of the described networks functioning during simple motor task execution. Direct connection between the task execution and anticorrelated functional connectivity of sensory-motor and default mode networks was shown. We observed blood oxygenation level dependent signal (BOLD) frequency characteristics of the default mode network (DMN) together with the sensory motor network (SMN). The results demonstrate a reproducible specific configuration of BOLD low-frequency spectrum. Neural network BOLD spectral pro㌳le approach may be used for future analysis of its functioning and dynamics rules of brain regions connectivity. Regions of precuneus and posterior cingulate cortex were shown to deactivate just partially. Sensorimotor and default-mode networks were functionally connected in the anticorrelated manner with the prevailing frequencies of the BOLD signal oscillation f1 = 0.0153 ± 0.0051 Hz and f2 = 0.0204 ± 0.0051 Hz, where f – frequency of BOLD oscillation. At our study we have found out, that only some separate parts of pC and PCC were deactivated during the task execution. This possibly might support the hypothesis that non deactivated regions of precuneus (pC) and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) remain active to regulate the transitions from the activated state to the deactivated and back while monitoring the external environment and commands. The last may support the hypothesis of the role of posterior cingulate cortex as a “hub” in default mode networks where non deactivated parts remain active for further control of others default mode networks region state switching.
Adult resocialization restores sociability, reduced by adolescent social isolation in rats
Authors:   O.O. Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Nikolaienko O.М. , Isaeva E.V. ,   Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA
Published: May 2022

We aimed to assess the effect of 6-week adolescent social isolation on sociability and social novelty preference in male Wistar rats. In addition, we examined whether isolation effects would persist after adult resocialization. Our findings demonstrate that social isolation resulted in decreased social interest (the time spent interacting with an unfamiliar rat of the same sex and age decreased from 115.4 ± 13.3 s in group-housed animals to 82.3 ± 11.0 s in isolated, P < 0.05), while social novelty preference was not significantly different between isolated and group-housed rats. We also report that 6-week resocialization was sufficient to restore social interaction levels in isolated rats (time spent with an unfamiliar rat was 117.9 ± 12.6 s in isolated animals and 102.5 ± 10.9 s in group-housed). These findings may be useful for better understanding the impact of social deprivation on human subjects, which has recently become especially relevant due to the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
3D-computer gastrovolumetry: a new method of visual estimation of a gastric tube for patients after sleeve gastrectomy
Authors:   State Scientific Institution “Center for Innovative Medical Technologies of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine”, Kyiv, Ukraine, Kalashnikov O.O.
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to analyze the volume of the gastric tube using sleeve gastrectomy (SG) 3D-computed gastrovolumetry for patients after SG and to determine its correlation with the percentage of excess weight loss. Patients who underwent SG between 2015 and 2018 were followed prospectively and evaluated after the operation. The condition of the gastric tube was examined using 3D-computer tomography reconstruction and gastric volumetry. The gastric tube was distended by effervescent sodium bicarbonate given orally. Gastric volume (GV) was estimated with the software of the CT device. The relationship between GV and weight loss was analyzed. Assessment of anthropometric parameters and the condition of the gastric tube was performed 24 months after surgery. Forty-two patients (24 women, 18 men) with a mean age of 36.9 ± 10.9 years were studied. The mean values body mass index (BMI) before and after SG were 48.1 ± 11.1 kg/m2 (from 35.3 to 81.5 kg/m2) and 34.7 ± 8.5 kg/m2 (from 26.7 to 61.3 kg/m2), respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between BMI before and after RRS (Z = –5.58; P = 0.001), after RRS BMI was significantly smaller. Mean percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) was 52.2 ± 20.7%. Mean GV was 288.7 ± 105.2 ml. The % EWL was inversely correlated with GV after SG (rs = –0.831; P = 0.001). 3D-computer gastrovolumetry is a good method to measure GV after SG. Post-operative weight loss inversely correlates with the GV.
AGE-ASSOCIATION FEATURES OF FAT AND LEAN MASS IN MEN
Authors:   State Institution «D. F. Chebotarev Institute of Gerontology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine», Ukraine, Musiienko A.S. , Grygorieva N.V. ,   State Institution «D. F. Chebotarev Institute of Gerontology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine», Ukraine, Bystrytska M.A. ,   State Institution «D. F. Chebotarev Institute of Gerontology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine», Ukraine
Published: May 2022

We examined 342 healthy men aged 20 to 89 years to establish age-related changes in body composition in physiological aging. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (fat and lean mass of the body, trunk and extremities, fat content, fat mass index, lean mass index, appendicular lean mass and appendicular lean mass index). The study found an age-associated decrease in lean mass and an increase in fat mass. The related index of fat mass significantly increased in aged men, reaching the maximum in the age group 50–59 years – 8.44 [6.19 – 10.33] compared with the group of 20-29 years old men – 5.24 [4.00 – 7.01] kg/m2 (P < 0.001). The appendicular lean mass reached a maximum in men 30-39 years old and decreased with age. The loss of lean mass at the age of 40-49 years was 5.2%, 50-59 years – 8.1%, 60-69 years – 9.3%, 70-79 years – 18.5%, 80-89 years – 22.1%. The incidence of sarcopenia probably increased with age and was in the age groups of 50-59 years – 5.3%, 60-69 years – 5.1%, 70-79 years – 15.1%, 80-89 years – 41.0%. Conclusively, age-related features of the body composition in men consisted of a decrease in lean mass with an increase in the frequency of sarcopenia from 5.3% in the age group 50-59 years to 41.0% in the age group 80-89 years on the background of increasing body fat.
Antipyretic Effectiveness of Oral Acetaminophen Versus Rectal Acetaminophen in Pediatric Patients With Fever
Authors: Tantivit Nessa , Thangjui Sittinun , Trongtorsak Angkawipa
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Acetaminophen, one of the routine medicines used for temperature reduction in febrile children, is available in multiple routes of administration, including oral and rectal routes. Our objective is to compare the antipyretic effectiveness of oral acetaminophen versus rectal acetaminophen in pediatric patients with fever in terms of temperature reduction.

METHODS

Medline and Embase databases were searched from inception to August 2021. Cohort studies, case-control studies, experimental studies, and randomized controlled trial studies comparing oral and rectal administered acetaminophen in pediatric patients were included. Two reviewers independently extracted data.

RESULTS

A total of 5 randomized studies (n = 362) were included in the meta-analysis. No significant difference was found between oral and rectal acetaminophen in temperature reduction at 1 hour (weighted mean difference [WMD], 0.04°C; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.10°C to 0.19°C; P = .501) or 3 hours (WMD, −0.14°C; 95% CI, −0.37°C to 0.10°C; P = .212) after administration (WMD, −0.14°C; 95% CI, −0.37°C to 0.10°C; P = .212).

CONCLUSION

Oral and rectal acetaminophen have no significant difference in antipyretic effectiveness at 1 and 3 hours after administration. If both options are available, oral acetaminophen would be preferred because of a more predictable drug level after administration. However, for febrile children with specific circumstances for whom oral acetaminophen could not be administered, rectal acetaminophen may be an alternative option for a short period of time (<48 hours).
Estudar e aprender no ensino remoto em contexto de pandemia
Authors: Leonídio Angélica Ribeiro Araújo , Ruela Guilherme de Andrade , Nascimento Dandara Lorrayne do
Published: May 2022

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a experiência de estudantes de cursos técnicos integrados ao ensino médio acerca do ensino remoto, estabelecido desde o início da pandemia do novo coronavírus, no ano de 2020. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, transversal, realizado com alunos e egressos dos cursos de Técnico em Segurança do Trabalho e Técnico em Alimentos do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de Rondônia – IFRO, Campus Jaru. A coleta de dados foi realizada a partir de um formulário eletrônico com 14 questões destinado à 296 estudantes, dos quais 123 participaram voluntariamente e os dados foram analisados de forma quantitativa, com as frequências absoluta e relativa. Por meio dos resultados, observou-se que a maior parte dos alunos, mesmo classificando a qualidade do ensino remoto como “boa”, considera imprescindível a presença física do professor em seu aprendizado, preferindo o ensino presencial. Também se verificou que a maioria dos entrevistados não se considerou plenamente preparado para as provas do Exame Nacional do Ensino Médio (ENEM) devido a dificuldades apresentadas durante o ensino à distância. Conclui-se que não só as escolas, mas toda a sociedade deve buscar meios para lidar com a crise sanitária com resiliência e a mesmo tempo prezar por uma educação de qualidade frente aos desafios e incertezas.
Palavras-chave: Educação; ensino médio; tecnologias educacionais; ensino técnico; COVID-19; ensino remoto.