bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abnormal Regional Brain Activities Along the Dorsal Stream During Visuospatial Processing in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Magnetoencephalography Study
Authors: Koike Masato , Noguchi-Shinohara Moeko , Morise Hirofumi , Kudo Kiwamu , Tsuchimine Shoko , Misaka Yoshihiro , Komatsu Junji , Abe Chiemi , Horimoto Mai , Kitagawa Sachiko , Ikeda Yoshihisa , Yamada Masahito , Ono Kenjiro
Published: February 2022

The dorsal stream is responsible for visuospatial processing, and visuospatial impairment is common in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using magnetoencephalography (MEG) during visuospatial processing, we investigated neural activity in the dorsal stream in patients with clinically diagnosed AD dementia (the dementia group), patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (the aMCI group), and cognitively unimpaired subjects (the CU group). We estimated the powers of neural responses induced by optic flow tasks in the five regions that form the dorsal stream, namely medial ventral occipital cortex (MVOcC), lateral occipital cortex, precuneus (Pcun), inferior parietal lobule (IPL), and superior parietal lobule, and compared two-region power ratios in the dementia group (n = 13), aMCI group (n = 11), and CU group (n = 20). Two of the two-region power ratios, namely IPL/Pcun and IPL/MVOcC, were found to be significantly higher in the dementia group than in the CU and aMCI groups, indicating that neural activity during visuospatial processing changes with the progression of AD, and a compensatory mechanism may be present in IPL, Pcun, and MVOcC of patients with AD. Thus, MEG during optic flow tasks may be useful for the investigation of neural activity in the dorsal stream in patients with AD.
The Systemic Renin-Angiotensin System in COVID-19
Authors: Reindl-Schwaighofer Roman , Hödlmoser Sebastian , Domenig Oliver , Krenn Katharina , Eskandary Farsad , Schörgenhofer Christian , Rumpf Benedikt , Karolyi Mario , Traugott Marianna , Abrahamowicz Agnes , Tinhof Viktoria , Mayfurth Hannah , Rathkolb Vincent , Mußnig Sebastian , Schmölz Lukas , Ullrich Roman , Heinzel Andreas , König Franz , Binder Christina , Bonderman Diana , Strassl Robert ,   Elisabeth Puchhammer-Stö, Gorkiewicz Gregor , Aberle Judith , Jilma Bernd , Wenisch Christoph , Poglitsch Marko , Oberbauer Rainer , Zoufaly Alexander , Hecking Manfred
Published: February 2022

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 gains cell entry via angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2, a membrane-bound enzyme of the “alternative” (alt) renin-angiotensin system (RAS). ACE2 counteracts angiotensin II by converting it to potentially protective angiotensin 1-7.Methods: Using mass spectrometry, we assessed key metabolites of the classical RAS (angiotensins I–II) and alt-RAS (angiotensins 1-7 and 1-5) pathways as well as ACE and ACE2 concentrations in 159 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, stratified by disease severity (severe, n=76; non-severe, n=83). Plasma renin activity (PRA-S) was calculated as the sum of RAS metabolites. We estimated ACE activity using the angiotensin II:I ratio (ACE-S) and estimated systemic alt-RAS activation using the ratio of alt-RAS axis metabolites to PRA-S (ALT-S). We applied mixed linear models to assess how PRA-S and ACE/ACE2 concentrations affected ALT-S, ACE-S, and angiotensins II and 1-7.Results: Median angiotensin I and II levels were higher with severe versus non-severe COVID-19 (both p<0.05), demonstrating activation of classical RAS. The difference disappeared with analysis limited to patients not taking a RAS inhibitor. ALT-S in severe COVID-19 increased with time (days 1–6: 0.12; days 11–16: 0.22) and correlated with ACE2 concentration (r=0.831). ACE-S was lower in severe versus non-severe COVID-19 (p<0.001), but ACE concentrations were similar between groups and weakly correlated with ACE-S (r=0.232). In mixed linear models, renin activity most strongly predicted angiotensin II and 1-7 levels. ACE2 also predicted angiotensin 1-7 levels and ALT-S. No single factor or the combined model, however, could fully explain ACE-S.Conclusions: Angiotensin II was elevated in severe COVID-19 but markedly influenced by RAS inhibitors and driven by overall RAS activation. ACE-S was significantly lower with severe COVID-19 and did not correlate with ACE concentrations. A shift to the alt-RAS axis because of increased ACE2 could partially explain the relative reduction in angiotensin II levels.
Changes in belowground interactions between white lupin and wheat along nitrogen and phosphorus gradients
Authors: Boudsocq Simon , Cros Camille , Hinsinger Philippe , Lambers Hans
Published: February 2022

Background and aims The positive effects of cereal-legume intercropping can occur through complementarity and facilitation for the acquisition of soil nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). However, the magnitude of the benefits depends on the availability of such resources. To improve our understanding and design best-performing systems, we evaluated the performance and underlying mechanisms of a cereal-legume mixture on two crossed gradients of N and P. Methods In a pot experiment, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and white lupin (Lupinus albus L.) were grown separately or together on four levels of N combined with four levels of P. We compared biomass, N content, P content, shoot-to-root biomass ratios and white lupin production of cluster roots and nodules of sole crops with those of intercrops. We used the relative interaction intensity index to determine how the nature of the interaction between the two species changed along the two resource gradients. Results Regardless of N and P supply, combined biomass and N content of intercropped wheat and white lupin were 29% and 23% greater, respectively. Intercropping increased P content by 34%, on average, particularly at the lowest P supply. While wheat benefited from intercropping in all treatments, white lupin’s performances decreased with increasing N and P supply, resulting in a shift from mutualism to competition along the two gradients and compensation mechanisms between the two species. Conclusion Nutrient availability negatively influenced the nature and mechanisms of wheat-lupin interaction. However, mutualistic interactions were the less productive, while competition was associated with the more productive situations.
Identifying Key Genes and Functionally Enriched Pathways in B cells from Peripheral Blood of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients by Bioinformatics Analysis and Validation
Authors: Wu Fengping , Gao Jinfang , Zhao Xingxing , Kang Jie , Wang Xuexue , Niu Qing , Liu Jiaxi , Zhang Liyun
Published: February 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis is a common chronic inflammatory disease. B cells are critical for the development of RA, but so far, we still know little about the role of B cells in the pathogenesis of RA. In the present study, we downloaded mRNA expression profiles of B cells from the peripheral blood (BCPB) of 7 RA patients and 9 healthy people from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) in conjunction with differentially expressed gene (DEGs) analysis, we identified 23 RA-trait different expression genes. In the subsequent protein protein interaction (PPI) network constructed by RA-trait DEGs, we eventually identified 5 hub genes (TLR8, CCR2, CX3CR1, GIMAP6 and C1QA). Compared with healthy people, these hub genes are significantly highly expressed in BCPB of RA patients in the dataset GSE4588. qRT-PCR results showed TLR8, CCR2, CX3CR1 were compatible with our bioinformatics analyses. Combined with other biological interpretations, our current study might provide a basis for identifying key genes and potential pathways related to the pathogenesis of BCPB of RA patients.
Conditioned media of mouse macrophages promote neuronal differentiation of mouse hippocampal cells
Authors: Öztürk Ayla Batu , Öztürk Nail Can , Ayaz Furkan
Published: February 2022

Understanding how the immune system associates with the pathophysiological hippocampal neurobiology in the neurodegenerative diseases is an emerging topic. Since the cellular population of hippocampal neurogenic niche is extraordinarily diverse, there is still a large gap in our understanding of the interactions between the immune cells and hippocampal neurons under even normal conditions, setting aside the disease conditions. To examine how the hippocampal neurons receive and respond to the cellular factors from the immune cells, we introduced the conditioned cell culture media (CM) of unstimulated, and lipopolysaccharide stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages to HT22 hippocampal cells during and after they were exposed to neuronal differentiation environment to mimic the states during and after the initiation of the neurogenesis. Then, HT22 cell responses were further examined by assessing immunocytochemical expression of CR protein and mRNA levels of Ascl1, Bdnf, Nrf2 and Rac1 genes via semi quantitative image analysis and q-RT-PCR, respectively. Our results suggest that culturing the HT22 cells with the unstimulated CM of macrophages substantially increased calretinin protein expression, while the latter media containing quite high levels of inflammatory cytokines, measured by ELISA, resulted in decreased protein levels for Calretinin. Additionally, Ascl1 gene expression levels in HT22 cells had similar trends as calretinin protein levels in the presence of CM of stimulated versus unstimulated media. Whereas there was no substantial difference in the gene expression levels for the Bdnf, Nrf2 and Rac1 genes. Overall, our results imply that utilization of HT22 cells and macrophage interplay can be instructive to decipher the molecular mechanisms of cellular communication between the immune system cells and neurons. Our overarching aim is developing immunotherapy strategies by using non-CNS derived immune system cells to modulate the neurogenesis in disease conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer’s and ALS to enable the recovery in the patients.
Osteoarticular Infections At A Pediatric Emergency Core Hospital In Japan
Authors: Takei Mikiko , Suga Kenichi , Takeuchi Shunsuke , Tayama Takahiro , Fujioka Keisuke , Ono Akemi , Shono Miki , Shichijo Koichi , Kosaka Hirofumi , Kobayashi Naoto , Kondo Shuji
Published: February 2022

Objectives: Osteomyelitis (OM) and septic arthritis (SA) in childhood might cause complications, sequelae, or even death if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. Early diagnosis of pediatric OM/SA depends on a healthcare system that is easily accessible and provides multidisciplinary management and early imaging studies. Here, we examined the outcomes of OM/SA at a pediatric emergency core hospital in Japan.Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective, observational cohort study　conducted at Tokushima Prefectural Central Hospital, a pediatric emergency core hospital in Japan. Pediatric outpatients who underwent magnetic resonance imaging at the hospital in the period 2012–2020 were recruited. Primary outcomes were sequelae, recurrent symptoms, chronicity, and death. The data collected included time from onset to first hospital visit, hospitalization, and initiation of effective antibiotics.Results: Fifteen OM/SA patients (9 OM, 4 SA, 2 OM+SA) were recruited. In these patients, symptoms were fever (100 %, n = 15), pain (93.3 %, n = 14), limited range of motion (73.3 %, n = 11), swelling (40.0 %, n = 6), and reluctance to feed (46.7 %, n = 7). The identified major pathogens included methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (40.0 %, n = 6) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (13.3 %, n = 2). Mean time from onset to first hospital visit, hospitalization, and initiation of effective antibiotics was 2 days, 3.9 ± 1.8 days, and 4.9 ± 2.2 days, respectively. All OM/SA patients recovered without complications or sequelae.Conclusions: In this study, all patients with OM/SA showed a good prognosis. Despite the small sample size, this pilot study suggests that the pediatric emergency core system in Japan provides early treatment and a good prognosis for patients diagnosed with OM/SA.
Effect of Tobacco Cultivation on Soil Fertility and Farmer’s Profitability in the Socio-Economic Perspective of Bangladesh
Authors: Joardar Jagadish Chandra , Fathema Kaniz , Basu Sudipa
Published: February 2022

Tobacco cultivation and production in Bangladesh have expanded by 99.68% and 219.4%, respectively, over the last decade. The study aimed to assess the impact of tobacco cultivation on soil fertility and to compare the soil fertility status of tobacco-based (TB) and non-tobacco-based (NTB) cropping fields. The study also compared the tobacco production cost and the financial cost-effectiveness of ranchers' land utilized for tobacco farming. The researchers used soil nutrient index (SNI) to analyze the soil fertility level of TB and NTB cropping fields. A total of 40 soil samples (20 TB and 20 NTB) were collected randomly from farmers' fields in Mirpur Upazila of Bangladesh's Kushtia district. Socio-demographic and financial data from 50 tobacco ranchers were collected from the investigation territory via a well-structured questionnaire. Soil nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, calcium and magnesium levels in TB fields were significantly lower than in NTB fields. Soil organic matter and pH in TB fields are substantially higher than in NTB fields. There was no substantial change in electrical conductivity or potassium. Based on the SNI results, the soil fertility in both cases was rated as medium. The average total cost of production for tobacco cultivation was 122190 BDT per acre of land. The average yield, all-in income, and net income per acre of land were 1292kg, 172851 BDT, and 50661 BDT, respectively, with a benefit-cost proportion of 1.42. Tobacco growers may benefit from reviewing the study's findings in making informed decisions on fertilizer applications for crops other than tobacco.
An F type star in a 51-minute orbital period eclipsing binary
Authors: Burdge Kevin , El-Badry Kareem , Marsh Thomas , Rappaport Saul , Brown Warren , Caiazzo Ilaria , Chakrabarty Deepto , Dhillon Vikram , Fuller Jim , Gänsicke Boris , Graham Matthew , Kara Erin , Kulkarni Shrii , Littlefair Stuart , Mroz Przemyslaw , Rodríguez-Gil Pablo , Roestel Jan van , Simcoe Robert , Bellm Eric , Drake Andrew , Dekany Richard , Masci Frank , Riddle Reed , Smith Roger , Prince Thomas
Published: February 2022

In over a thousand known cataclysmic variables (CVs), where a white dwarf is accreting from a hydrogen-rich star, only a dozen have orbital periods below 75 minutes1–8. One way to achieve these short periods requires the donor star to have undergone substantial nuclear evolution prior to interacting with the white dwarf9, 10, and it is expected that these objects will transition to helium accretion. These transitional CVs have been proposed as progenitors of helium CVs9–12 30 , also called AM CVn stars, one of the most abundant sources of gravitational radiation detectable by the Laser Space Interferometer Antenna13 . However, no known transitional CV is expected to reach an orbital period short enough to account for most of the helium CV population, leaving the role of this evolutionary pathway unclear. Here, we report observations of ZTF J1813+4251, a 51-minute orbital period fully eclipsing binary system consisting of an F type star, with a temperature comparable to that of the Sun but a density 100 times greater, accreting onto a white dwarf. Phase-resolved spectra, multi-band light curves and the broadband spectral energy distribution allow us to obtain precise and robust constraints on the masses, radii and temperatures of both components. Evolutionary modeling shows that ZTF J1813+4251 is destined to become a helium CV binary, reaching an orbital period under 20 minutes, rendering ZTF J1813+4251 a previously missing link between helium CV binaries and hydrogen-rich CVs.
A Novel Ensemble Method for Predicting Wheat Yield Using Feature Selection-based Deep Learning and Hyperspectral Vegetation Indices
Authors: Fei Shuaipeng , Li Lei , Han Zhiguo , Chen Zhen , Xiao Yonggui
Published: February 2022

Background: Wheat is an important food crop globally, and timely prediction of wheat yield in breeding efforts can improve the efficiency of selection. Traditional plant breeding based on grain yield selection is time-consuming, costly, and destructive. There is a great need for innovative methods to enhance efficiency and accelerate genetic gains in the breeding cycle. Results: In this study, a new ensemble learning method was developed to predict wheat yield by combining hyperspectral data and deep learning-based regression technology. For this, 207 wheat cultivars and breeding lines were grown under full and limited irrigation treatments, and their canopy hyperspectral reflectance was measured at the flowering, early grain fill (EGF), mid grain fill (MGF), and late grain fill (LGF). Firstly 115 vegetation indices (VIs) were extracted from the hyperspectral reflectance and combined with four feature selection methods i.e., mean decrease impurity (MDI), Boruta, FeaLect, and Relief to train deep neural network (DNN) models for yield prediction. Then, a novel ensemble learning framework was developed by combining the predicted values of selected and the full features using multiple linear regression (MLR). The results show that feature selection methods achieved higher yield prediction accuracy than the full features, where MDI method performed best across growth stages, with the mean R2 ranging from 0.634-0.666 (mean RMSE = 0.926-0.967 t ha-1). The proposed ensemble method outperformed all the FS methods across growth stages, with the mean R2 ranging from 0.648-0.679 (mean RMSE = 0.911-0.950 t ha-1). Conclusions: By integrating multiple FS methods and DNN, more prediction potential of hyperspectral data can be exploited, and this ensemble method is also applicable to trait estimation of other crops.
MGMT Gene Promoter Methylation by Pyrosequencing Method Correlates Volumetric Response and Neurological Status in IDH Wild-type Glioblastomas
Authors: Hosoya Tomohiro , Narita Yoshitaka , Takahashi Masamichi , Honda-Kitahara Mai , Miyakita Yasuji , Ohno Makoto , Yanagisawa Shunsuke , Omura Takaki , Kawauchi Daisuke , Tamura Yukie , Kikuchi Miyu , Nakano Tomoyuki , Yoshida Akihiko , Igaki Hiroshi , Matsushita Yuko , Ichimura Koichi
Published: February 2022

Purpose
Although the usefulness of O⁶-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation analysis for predicting response to chemoradiotherapy and the prognosis of patients with glioblastoma has been widely reported, there is still no consensus regarding how to define MGMT promoter methylation percentage (MGMTpm%) cutoffs by pyrosequencing method. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal cutoff value of MGMT promoter methylation status using volumetric analysis focused on the tumor volume ratio (TVR) measured by MRI.
Methods
This retrospective study included newly diagnosed IDH wild-type glioblastoma patients with residual tumor after surgery, followed by local radiotherapy with temozolomide. TVR was defined as the tumor volume at 6 months after the initial chemoradiotherapy administration divided by the tumor volume before the start of therapy. The mean MGMTpm% of 16 CpG islands (74–89) was analyzed using pyrosequencing. We statistically analyzed the correlation between MGMTpm%, TVR, and change in Karnofsky performance status (KPS).
Results
The study included 44 patients with residual tumors. Thirteen (92.9%) of 14 patients with MGMTpm% ≥23.9% showed 50% or more volumetric response, leading to prolonged survival, and 17 (70.8%) of 24 patients with MGMTpm% < 8.2% had progressive disease after initial chemoradiotherapy administration. Three (50.0%) of six patients with MGMTpm% 8.2% - < 23.9% had stable disease or partial response.
Conclusion
Evaluation of MGMTpm% by pyrosequencing is important in predicting the volumetric response and prognosis of glioblastoma patients with residual tumors.
The effect of Nizimuddinia zanardinii algae on biochemical parameters and histopathological changes induced by cholestatic liver fibrosis in male rats
Authors: Nasiri Modara , Hajikhani Ramin , Mortazavi Pejman , Ebrahim Mahsa Ale , Bananaj Maryam
Published: February 2022

Background: Liver fibrosis is an important health problem in the world; the excessive deposition of type 1 collagen is the most characteristic feature of liver fibrosis. Algae is one of the natural resources that contains biologically active compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-stimulating properties. In this study, the effect of brown algae Nizimuddinia zanardinii on liver damage caused by cholestatic liver fibrosis in rats was evaluated. Material and Methods: 54 male rats were randomly classified in nine groups: control, sham, BDL, treatment and Nizimuddinia control. In the treatment group, after BDL, rats were given Nizimuddinia zanradinii extract via intragastric gavage for 45 days (once per day). parameters contains ALT, AST, ALP, cholesterol, triglyceride, albumin, total protein, SOD and CAT and histopathological assessments evaluated. Results: Treatment with Nizimuddinia zanardinii significantly weakened these alterations. In order to, in the treatment groups, TGF-β1 expression was severe, noticeable and low, respectively. In treatment groups, α-SMA expression was remarkable and mildly observed in hepatocytes and hyperplastic bile ducts, respectively. Conclusions: Based on this study, the N. zanardinii extract may protect the liver and have anti-fibrotic effects through its antioxidant and reducing the expression of TGF-β1 and α-SMA.
Factors Associated With Non-Compliance to Diabetes Medication in a Rapidly Urbanizing Region in Ghana: A Mixed-Methods Study.
Authors: Berkoh Dorice A. , Owiredu William B. K. A. , Gyasi Samuel F. , Donkoh Emmanuel T. , Ngala Robert
Published: February 2022

Background
Failure to achieve adequate glycaemic control can lead to debilitating complications for diabetics. Strict compliance to prescribed diet, lifestyle and medication can prevent complications.
Methods
In order to examine factors accompanying non-compliance behaviour to diabetes medication in a rapidly urbanizing region of Ghana, a mixed approach was adopted. Study subjects (N: 160, mean age: 58.3) were interviewed at the Diabetic Clinic of the Brong-Ahafo Regional Hospital, Sunyani. Compliance to diabetes treatment was evaluated with an adapted Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS). Face-to-face interviews of 20 subjects allowed for more personalized exploration of psychosocial aspects of non-compliance. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded using the Nvivo software. Qualitative data was processed and subjected to inductive thematic analysis.
Results
Majority of study participants reported an optimum (n = 121, 75.6%) level of compliance to diabetes medication, although some also reported poor compliance (n = 39, 24.4%). Qualitative responses received during interviews suggest that poor compliance may be attributable to misconceptions about religious beliefs and practices. Psychosocial factors relating to felt stress, the inevitability of fate and compliance fatigue were also discovered to undermine compliance. Non-compliance behaviour was also explained by socioeconomic status and barriers to health-seeking behaviour.
Conclusion
Reported medication compliance was among the highest in out-patient settings in Ghana. However, contextual determinants of non-compliance have to be addressed. Efforts to improve compliance to diabetic medication could benefit from interventions that address superstition, target psychological aspects of chronic disease management and remove operational barriers to healthcare delivery such as transportation costs and long waiting times.
Large-gap Peripheral Nerve Repair Using Xenogeneic Transplants in Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Holzer Paul , Chang Elizabeth J. , Tarlton Jamie , Lu Diana , Gillespie Natasha , Rogers Kaitlyn , Adkins Jon , Metea Monica , LaRochelle Alan , Wicks Joan , Onel Buket , Gullans Steve , Doloff Joshua C. , Scobie Linda , Cetrulo Curtis L. , Monroy Rod
Published: February 2022

Surgical intervention is required to successfully treat severe, large-gap (≥4 cm) peripheral nerve injuries. However, all existing treatments have shortcomings and an alternative to the use of autologous nerves is needed. Human andporcine nerves are physiologically similar, with comparable dimensions and architecture, presence and distribution of Schwann cells, and conserved features of the extracellular matrix (ECM). We report the repair of fully transected radial nerves in 10 Rhesus Macaques using viable, whole sciatic nerve from genetically engineered (GalT-KO), designated pathogen free (DPF) porcine donors. This resulted in the regeneration of the transected nerve, recovery of wrist extension function, distal muscle reinnervation, and recovery of nerve conduction velocities and compound muscle action potentials statistically equivalent to autologous controls. We also demonstrate the absence of immune rejection, systemic porcine cell migration, and detectable residual porcine material. Our findings support the safety and efficacy of viable porcine nerve transplants, suggest the interchangeable therapeutic use of cross-species cells, and highlight the broader clinical potential of xenotransplantation.
CT-707 Overcomes Hypoxia-mediated Sorafenib Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Inhibiting YAP Signaling
Authors: Chen Zibo , Yuan Tao , Yan Fangjie , Ye Song , Xie Qin , Zhang Bo , Lin Nengmin , He Qiaojun , Yang Bo , Zhu Hong
Published: February 2022

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Sorafenib is the first-line treatment for advanced HCC, but the anti-cancer effects remain to be improved as indicated by its low response rates and failure to prolong the progression-free survival (PFS). Thus, it is urgent to explore approaches to improve the clinical outcome. Materials and methods: The effect of Sorafenib in HCC was analyzed by SRB (sulforhodamine B) assay in normoxia and hypoxia, respectively. The different dose combination effect of CT707 and sorafenib was analyzed by SRB assay in hypoxia. Flow cytometry assay was used to detect the cell apoptosis rate with CT707 and sorafenib treatment in hypoxia. Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of apoptosis -related proteins and the mechanism of CT707 overcome the resistance of sorafenib in hypoxia. Results: Our study showed that the characteristic intratumor hypoxia of advanced HCC is one of the major factors which mediated the drug resistance towards sorafenib in HCC. And CT-707, a novel multi-kinase inhibitor, could sensitize the hypoxic HCC cells towards sorafenib. Further studies showed that CT-707 abolished the nuclear translocation of Yes Associate-Protein (YAP), which has been demonstrated as one of mechanism of hypoxia-mediated sorafenib-resistance in HCC. Conclusions: Overall, this study not only favors the development of this novel multi-kinase inhibitor CT-707 as a therapeutic agent against HCC, but also provides a potential strategy to overcome the hypoxia-mediated resistance to sorafenib in HCC patients.
Effect of Previous Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection on the Outcomes of IVF/ICSI Treatment: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Dan , Wang Zengyan , Hu Xingyuan , Ma Chunguang , Ma Yuanlin , Xu Yanwen
Published: February 2022

Background: The impact of Chlamydia trachomatis infection (CT) on the outcomes of In-Vitro Fertilizition / Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) has been controversial. Methods: This retrospective study investigated the effect of cured CT infection and the intervals between infection and the first embryo transfer on pregnancy outcomes in infertile patients undergoing IVF/ICSI. A total of 431 infertility women aged 20-38 years with or without Chlamydia trachomatis infection before fresh/ frozen embryo transfer were included. We subdivided the infected group into two subgroups for ≤ 3 months and > 3 months according to the different intervals between Chlamydia trachomatis positive testing and embryo transfer. The effect of chlamydia infection and the intervals between infection and embryo transfer on pregnancy outcomes was analyzed. Results: Our results revealed that implantation rate was significantly lower and the premature rupture of membranes (PROM) was higher in women with CT infection than non-infection. The multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusting for baseline characteristics showed no significant difference in embryo implantation between neither two groups nor two subgroups while patients in infection group have higher rate of PROM than those in control group.Conclusions: The study suggests that previous Chlamydia trachomatis infection would not impair embryo implantation but lead to high risk of PROM and the intervals between infection and embryo transfer would not impact the pregnancy outcomes of IVF/ICSI.
Metal paddlewheels as sensors for detection of SO2 gas: A DFT study
Authors: Sirijaraensre Jakkapan
Published: February 2022

The sensing properties of the paddlewheel-type metal dimer (M-BTC: M = Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pd) toward SO2 gas were theoretically investigated using density functional theory (DFT) at the M06-L level of theory. Single point calculations were carried at the M06 functional to correct the energetic properties and HOMO-LUMO energy gap. The O-bound adsorption complex of SO2 on the metal center of paddlewheels is found to be thermodynamically favorable than the S-bound ones. The trend of adsorption energy of SO2 on the metal center is in the order Pd-BTC < Cu-BTC < Ni-BTC < Zn-BTC < Fe-BTC. Among these five paddlewheels, the Ni-BTC and Zn-BTC paddlewheels are highly sensitive towards SO2 gas as compared to the other systems. The density of states reveals that the adsorption process significantly reduces the LUMO of the system to lower energies, enhancing the conductivity of the system. From DFT results, the energy gap of Ni-BTC and Zn-BTC is significantly reduced by 18.0% and 41.0% after the adsorption of SO2 on the metal center. These results suggest the great potential of Ni-, and Zn-BTC paddlewheels as SO2 sensors.
Validating the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for use in less at risk Ugandan postpartum women
Authors: Atuhaire Catherine , Brennaman Laura , Nambozi Grace , Ngonzi Joseph , Atwine Daniel , Rukundo Godfrey Zari
Published: February 2022

BackgroundAlthough the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) has been recognized as a reliable screening scale for postpartum depression among mothers worldwide, no study has validated this scale in Uganda. The objective of this study was to establish the accuracy of the EPDS as a screening scale for postpartum depression (PPD) for use in less at risk Ugandan postpartum women in comparison with the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI 7.0.2) for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5).Methods We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study at one regional referral hospital and two peri-urban primary care postpartum clinics that serve a rural community in the southwestern region of Uganda. The study targeted 287 mothers aged 18 to 49 years during their six weeks’ postpartum visit. During data collection, mothers were first screened using the EPDS in one of the private rooms and then clinically diagnosed in another private room using the MINI 7.0.2. With the EPDS, PPD was diagnosed if the mother had a cutoff point of ≥ 10. Runyankore-Rukiga was the language used in the Ugandan version of the EPDS and this data was obtained from 11th November 2019 to 10th June 2020. The accuracy of the EPDS was determined using the MINI 7.0.2 as a reference standard.ResultsA total of 287 mothers aged 18 to 49 years during their six weeks’ postpartum visit were included in the study. Overall PPD prevalence was 29.5% versus 26.5% with EPDS and the MINI 7.0.2 for the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for depression respectively, p = 0.239. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the EPDS established by this study were 86.8%, 92.1%, 80.5% and 94.9% respectively. The cut-off point ≥10 was the most acceptable point in detecting mothers suffering from PPD. The area under the ROC curve that shows the overall performance of the scale against the MINI 7.0.2 was 0.89 for Bwizibwera HCIV, 0.97 for Kinoni HCIV and 0.84 for MRRH.ConclusionEPDS can successfully screen for postpartum depression in southwestern Uganda at a cutoff score of ≥10. It has a good diagnostic performance to correctly detect PPD among postpartum mothers.
Apolipoprotein E4 polymorphism is associated with a higher risk of aspiration pneumonia in young stroke patients
Authors: Park Hae-Yeon , Oh Hyun-Mi , Kim Tae-Woo , Kim Youngkook , Park Geun-Young , Hwang Hyemi , Im Sun
Published: February 2022

Background Genetic polymorphisms may be associated with infections, and some genes are known to be associated with pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia is one of the major complications after stroke, and this study aimed to evaluate genetic effects on post-stroke aspiration pneumonia. Methods Blood samples were obtained from a total of 206 post-stroke participants (males, n = 136; mean age, 63.8 years). Genotyping was done for catechol-O-methyltransferase (rs4680 and rs165599), dopamine receptors (DRD1; rs4532, DRD2; rs1800497, DRD3, rs6280), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (rs6265), apolipoprotein E (rs429358, rs7412), and the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist gene (rs4251961). The subjects were stratified into two groups, aged < 65 (young) and ≥ 65 (elderly) years. Functional parameters and swallowing outcomes were measured at enrollment and 3-months post-onset. The primary outcome was the incidence of aspiration pneumonia. Results Analysis of the association between genetic polymorphisms and aspiration pneumonia history showed that a minor C rs429358 allele was associated with the occurrence of aspiration pneumonia in the young group, both in the additive and dominant models (odds ratio [OR], 4.53; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.60 – 12.84, P = 0.004). In the multivariable logistic analysis, a minor C rs429358 allele increased the risk of post-stroke aspiration pneumonia by 5.35 (95% CI: 1.64 – 20.88). In contrast, no genetic effects were seen in the elderly group. Conclusions A minor C rs429358 allele in young age stroke patients may increase the incidence of post-stroke aspiration pneumonia. Genetic polymorphism may provide useful information on how certain individuals are at increased risk of post-stroke aspiration pneumonia. Clinical Trial Registration-URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT0357744
Characteristics of the Gut Microbiota in Pregnant Women With Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Tu Xinzhi , Duan Chun , Lin Bingying , Li Kangfeng , Gao Jie , Yan Huaying , Wang Kejian , Zhao Zhao
Published: February 2022

Background: Fetal growth restriction (FGR) in utero leads to failure of fetus to reach the genetically normal growth potential. Currently available means of treating FGR are limited. And it remains unknown how pregnant women who give birth to FGR fetus differ in gut microbiota composition from normal pregnant women.Methods: In this case-control study, fecal samples were obtained from maternal rectum in the operation room by obstetricians under strict aseptic conditions. We compared gut microbiota of 14 pregnant women with FGR and 18 normal controls by performing 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing.Results: We identified significant differences in β-diversity between the FGR and control groups (P < 0.05). At genus level, Bacteroides, Faecalibacterium and Lachnospira were highly abundant in the FGR subjects, which are significantly enriched in KEGG pathways related to glycometabolism. Conclusion: These findings demonstrated that the distinct composition of the gut microbiota between FGR and normal pregnant women could contribute to an improved understanding of the prevention and treatment of FGR.
Methodologische Reflexion
Authors: Könitz Christopher
Published: February 2022

Mittels der explorativen Studie und den damit verbundenen methodologischen Vorüberlegungen, wurde für die Strukturale Medienbildung eine methodologisch anschlussfähige komparative Methodik entwickelt. Im letzten Teil der Arbeit, sollen die wesentlichen Erkenntnisse und Ergebnisse aus den beiden vorangegangenen Teilen zusammengefasst und reflektiert werden. Hierbei liegt der Fokus auf den beiden zentralen Fragestellungen der Arbeit:

Wie kann eine komparative Methodik im Kontext der Strukturalen Medienbildung aussehen?
Welche Konstruktionsprinzipien für Bildungspotenziale lassen sich aus der komparativen Methodik ableiten?

Daher sollen hinsichtlich des entwickelten Analyseprozesses (vgl. Abbildung ) zunächst die Aspekte des Samplings, der Materialgenerierung und des Kodierprozesses, als Basis der komparativen Methodik, im Fokus der Reflexion stehen. Daran anschliessend sollen mit Blick auf die höheren Kodierebenen, die Konstruktionsprinzipien von Bildungspotenzialen im Kontext der entwickelten komparativen Methodik untersucht werden.
Investigating gender stereotypes and musicality in Esan, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Aluede Esther Omone , Aluede Charles Onomudo
Published: February 2022

This article examines the Ijieleghe and Igbabonelimin acrobatic dances for female and male ensembles. The data was obtained through ethnographic research techniques which include research in the library, interviews, focus group discussions, the use of interlocutors and participant observation. We found that both genres stem from the same source and are similar in dance patterns, repertory and musical instruments. While Ijieleghe performers wear light costumes, those of Igbabonelimin are heavy and sometimes accompanied by male and female masquerades. In Igbabonelimin, however, women are not admitted into any of its departments; while in Ijieleghe, male participants are confined to drumming and singing. Only the female participants perform the dance. This paper asks: Why is it that women cannot be admitted into the membership of the sonic space of men in the Igbabonelimin? What will happen if these ensembles admit members of the opposite sexes into gender restricted areas? These questions are what this paper intends to answer. However, while we are aware that there are gender-based restrictions that are not conducive to integration in this day and age, it is our view that in the light of present-day realities in Nigeria, gender restrictions should be challenged to lengthen and enhance the longevity of these ensembles.
Ksiloz ve Gliserol Ortamlarında Çeşitli Mayaların Lipit Üretim Kapasitelerinin Belirlenmesi
Authors: BERİKTEN Derya , HOŞGÜN Emir Zafer
Published: February 2022

Biyodizel, fosil yakıtlara alternatif ve çevre dostu bir yakıt olarak dikkatleri üzerine çekmektedir. Biyodizelin, mikrobiyal yağlardan sürdürülebilir ve düşük maliyetli karbon kaynaklarının kullanılması ile daha ekonomik olarak üretilebileceği düşünülmektedir. Atık veya yan ürün olarak sıklıkla karşımıza çıkan gliserol ve ksiloz mikrobiyal lipitlerin düşük maliyetli üretimi için uygun karbon kaynakları arasında yer almaktadır. Bu çalışmada, yedi farklı maya türünden (Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, Wickerhamomyces anomalus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Clavispora lusitaniae, Pichia fermentans, P. cactophila, Yarrowia lipolytica) oluşan 12 maya izolatının tek karbon kaynağı olarak ksiloz veya gliserolü kullanma ve kimyasal olarak tanımlanmış bir ortamda lipit biriktirme yetenekleri karakterize edilmiştir. İzolatların tamamının test edilen üretim ortamlarında lipit üretme yeteneğine sahip olduğu belirlenmiştir. Ancak izolatlardan Y. lipolytica (%81.34) ve P. fermentans 1 (%79.11) ksiloz içeren fermentasyon ortamında, P. fermentans 2 (%98.90) ve Y. lipolytica (%94.62) ise gliserol içeren fermentasyon ortamında en yüksek lipit miktarı elde edilen türlerdir. Her iki üretim ortamında da lipit miktarında en yüksek sonuçlar Y. lipolytica izolatı ile elde edilmiştir. Sonuçlar, tüm izolatların gliserol ve ksiloz üzerinde büyüme kabiliyetine sahip olduğunu ve özellikle Y. lipolytica'nın ikinci nesil biyodizel üretimi için kullanım potansiyeline sahip olduğunu göstermektedir.
A Different Approach To The Chromosome Classification of Three Lallemantia Fisch. & C.A. Mey. Species By Using Local Binary Pattern (LBP)
Authors: EMRE İrfan , TUNCER Türker , DOGAN Sengul , KURŞAT Murat , GEDİK Osman , KIRAN Yaşar
Published: February 2022

The traditional karyotype studies are widely used in plant systematics to evaluate the positions of species. However, studies sometimes can not solve systematic problems. In recent years, computer-based systems have gained importance in contributing to the solution of the taxonomical problems. The aim of this study was to identify three Lallemantia species by using the LBP (local binary pattern) texture operator based on chromosome images in mitosis. LBP is the one of the most powerful and easily applicable tool for identifying local image patterns. In this study, microphotographs of 641 cells in the metaphase stage of mitosis were used. The LBP involves preprocessing, feature extraction, feature selection, and classification. Decision tree (DT), linear discriminant (LD), support vector machine (SVM), K-nearest neighbor (KNN), bagged tree (BT) and ensemble subspace nearest neighbor (SNN) were used in the classification stage. This study found that the best acting classifier was SNN because achievement rate was one hundred percent. Also, a dendrogram was formed to measure the similarity among the three species. As a result, LBP can be accepted as a tool for classifying plants by using chromosome images.
Çam (Pinus spp.) Türlerinin ve Fraksiyonlarının Gıda Takviyesi ve Tıbbi Bitki Olarak Kullanım Olanakları
Authors: HENDEK ERTOP Müge , İNCEMEHMETOĞLU Emine
Published: February 2022

Nutrasötik ve fonksiyonel özelliklere sahip yeni bileşenler belirlemek ve izole etmek için son zamanlarda çok sayıda bitki, meyve, sebze ve baharatlar üzerinde araştırmalar yapılmaktadır. Gıda olarak tüketilebilen kaynaklardan bu bileşiklerin ekstraksiyonu yerine endüstriyel yan veya atık ürünlerin bir biyoaktif molekül kaynağı olarak yeniden değerlenmesine yönelik çalışmalar ise doğal kaynakların etkin kullanımı amacıyla daha da önem kazanmıştır. Bu çalışmanın amacı, çam türleri ile kabuk, kozalak, sürgün, iğne gibi farklı fraksiyonlarının, antioksidan ve mikrobesin kaynağı olarak gıda endüstrisinde ve biyomedikal amaçlarla kullanım potansiyelini vurgulamaktadır. Çam fraksiyonları, polimerik flavanoller, tannik asit, flavonoidler ve kafeik veya protokatekuik asit gibi diğer fenolik asitler dahil olmak üzere geniş biyoaktif bileşen içeriğine sahiptir. Derlenen çalışmalar, çam türlerine ait özellikle kabuk ve kozalak gibi fraksiyonların halk arasında farklı yerel tedavi yöntemlerinde kullanıldığını, aynı zamanda meyve suyu, et, fırıncılık ürünleri teknolojisinde başarılı sonuçlar verdiğini göstermiştir. Farklı çam fraksiyonlarının kullanımı ile üretilmiş ticari ürünler sınırlı sayıda olmasına rağmen, ormancılık endüstrisi yan ürünlerinin, besin takviyesi olarak ikinci bir kullanım alanına girdi sağlayabileceği açıkça görülmektedir. Yapılan çalışmaların ağırlıklı olarak tedavi, alternatif ve geleneksel tıp alanında olduğu, gıda takviyesi olarak değerlendirme konusunda araştırmaların kısıtlı olduğu belirlenmiştir. Çok yönlü kullanıma sahip olmasına rağmen, sınırlı araştırma-geliştirme çalışmaları nedeniyle çam kozalağı, kabuğu gibi farklı fraksiyonlar yakacak olarak kullanılmakta, bu da büyük miktarda kaynak israfına neden olmaktadır. Ülkemizin bu alanda sahip olduğu büyük ekolojik sistem ve kaynaklar ile günümüz tüketicisinin gıda ve katkı maddelerinden fonksiyonellik ve doğallık beklentisi göz önüne alındığında, yapılacak araştırmaların gıda sektörüne büyük katkı sağlayacağı düşünülmektedir.
The Effect of Different Parameters on the Amount of Obtained Power the Thermoelectric Generator Placed in the Human Living Tissue
Authors: ARSLAN F.mertkan , TAŞLICA Simge , KARAKURT Çağan , GÜRLEK Gökhan
Published: February 2022

Studies on thermoelectric generators (TEG) are becoming widespread day by day and the diversity of usage areas of generators is increasing. Individuals using TEG modules appear to be able to produce the required electricity for various uses from their own bodies. It is hoped that electricity will be generated from TEG modules that will be implanted in the human body because of this foresight. In order to obtain power from these TEG modules, which can be used for implantable devices, the temperature difference in different parts of the body is used. In the study, a thermal model of human living tissue was examined to investigate parameters affecting energy harvesting from human with TEG. A realistic TEG model was determined to accurately calculate the power generated by TEG. The thermal model was applied with using the finite volume method (FVM). Four important factors that affect generated power by TEG were chosen such as fat thickness (Lfat), leg length of TEG (Lleg), convection boundary condition on skin (hskin) and heat generation of muscle tissue (Qgen). The effects of these factors on temperature difference of TEG legs and power output were investigated using 2k factorial design method. As a result, maximum and minimum values were found as 0.26 °C and 1.13 °C respectively for the temperature difference between legs. According to these temperature difference values, the power outputs obtained from the TEG module are 3.86 µW and 55.54 µW, respectively. In addition, Lleg, hskin and Qgen have a positive effect on TEG power output. As analysis of variance (ANOVA) result, the percentage contribution of factors A and B is high, so they have strong effects on both responses.
Cloning and Expression of Rat Brain Acetylcholinesterase Enzyme in Escherichia coli
Authors: KARAKUŞ Ahmet , CEYLAN Hamid , ERDOĞAN Orhan
Published: February 2022

In this study, the gene region of rat (Rattus norvegicus) brain acetylcholinesterase enzyme was amplified in PCR with designed forward and reverse primers and it was ligated into a pET-SUMO vector under suitable conditions. This recombinant vector was transformed to competent Escherichia coli cells and it was grown in liquid LB medium including kanamycin. Colony PCR was performed from growing colony and PCR products were checked with agarose gel electrophoresis. The correct colonies were grown in a liquid medium for plasmid isolation. After plasmid isolation, these recombinant constructs were used for whether the gene inserts properly with cross-PCR. After determining the accuracy of the plasmid, recombinant vectors were transferred into the E. coli BL21 (DE3) cells to perform protein production. Cells were grown in IPTG induced larger media for hours. Enzyme activity and SDS-PAGE analysis were performed from homogenate for each treatment samples.
Cloning and Purification of L-Asparaginase from Enterobacter carcerogenus
Authors: KOLCUOĞLU Yakup , ÇAKMAK Ümmühan
Published: February 2022

In this study, the gene coding for EcL-ASP from Enterobacter carcerogenus was identified in full sequence and cloned into a mesophilic organism. The gene encoding L-asparaginase was transferred to the pET-28a (+) vector to ensure its expression in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) pLysS. The recombinant protein containing the N-terminal histidine tail (6xHis tag) was purified by Nickel affinity chromatography. As a result of SDS-PAGE, it was determined that the purified protein consisted of a single type of polypeptide. In the theoretical calculation, the subunit molecular weight of the recombinant protein containing the histidine tail was found to be 37 kDa. It was observed that the cloned enzyme had low L-glutaminase activity. The pH and temperature at which the recombinant enzyme showed the best activity were determined as 7.0 and 37 °C, respectively. From the drawn Lineweaver-Burk graph, it is estimated that the Km value is 0.06 mM and the Vmax value is 666.7 U mg-1 protein.