bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Randomization and Selection of Self-Calibrating Binary Encoders in Neural Systems
Authors: Herbert Alan
Published: February 2022

Zebrafish larvae are able to track and capture prey five days post-fertilization, consistent with a genetic specification of pattern recognition by the nervous system, yet inconsistent with a process that involves tweaking of individual neural connections by processes similar to those currently employed to train artificial neural nets (ANN). Biological neural networks appear extremely efficient and adaptable when compared to ANN. Here I describe self-calibrating randomly initiated binary encoders (SCRIBEs) that produce sparse output and are highly scalable. The self-calibrating nets (SCN) they generate are capable of classifying and tracking objects with high accuracy and fluency by a process based on selection of SCRIBE arrays optimizing survival. Calibration of SCRIBEs depends on array thresholds that vary with their size but can happen without external input during development and sleep. In neural systems, synchronization likely depends on neuromodulator and brainwave status.
Dolphin hearts have the same characteristics as human
Authors: Kinoshita Rie , Ebisawa Kazumasa , Nakayama Shunya , Koie Hiroshi
Published: February 2022

Previous studies of dolphin electrocardiograms showed that they are mainly composed of increased negative waves similar to ungulates. The electrocardiogram waveform is determined by the distribution of the location of the Purkinje fibers. Based on the waveform of the dolphin electrocardiogram, Hamlin predicted that the distribution of Purkinje fibers would be within the ventricular muscle, as in ungulates. In this study, bottlenose dolphin heart were observed both visually and histologically, and the effects of Purkinje fiber distribution and cardiac morphology on electrocardiogram waveforms were considered. This study showed that the Purkinje fibers of dolphins run just below the endocardium as in humans, dogs, and cats, whose electrocardiograms show mainly positive waves. When the cardiac morphology of dolphins was observed carefully again, the right ventricle was extremely dilated compared to terrestrial mammals. In human recreational divers, right ventricular dilatation is induced by diving. We hypothesized that the dolphin’s heart is in a similar state to that of right heart dilatation in terrestrial animals. The dolphin electrocardiogram waveform is considered to be due to right axis deviation. Based on the above, we concluded that the dolphin electrocardiogram waveform was due to its living in water. We found that the dolphin is genetically related to the ungulates, especially the hippopotamus, but that their hearts have evolved differently.
Pollution Status And Risk Assessment Of Trace Elements In Portuguese Water, Soils, Sediments And Associated Biota: A Trend Analysis From The 80s To 2021
Authors: Couto Cristina , Ribeiro Cláudia
Published: February 2022

Pollution of water bodies and sediments/soils by trace elements remains a global threat and a serious environmental hazard to biodiversity and human’s health. Globalization and industrialization resulted in the increase and availability of these substances in the environment posing unpredictable adverse effects to living organisms. To determine pollution status and risk contamination by trace elements, data available in literature of the last 40 years on trace elements occurrence in three environmental matrices (water bodies, sediments/soils and biota) from Continental Portugal were collected (about 90 studies). Data were compared to water and sediment quality guidelines to assess potential ecological risks. Most environmentally relevant hazardous elements include Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, and As. Various studies found trace elements at levels higher than those considered safe by environmental guidelines. In surface waters, Al, Zn, Se and Ag were found above aquatic life limits in about 60% of the reviewed papers, while Cu, Zn and As exceed those values in more than 60% of mining waters. Hg and Cd in sediments from mining areas exceeded aquatic life limits and potential ecological risk showed extremely high risk for most of the elements. The different samples vary in terms of sampling schemes, parameters, and spatiotemporal settings. These differences make meaningful comparisons of the available data difficult but the compilation of scattered environmental spatial and temporal trace elements data, from natural sources or human activity and the ultimate effect on biological systems, is of the upmost importance to broaden its knowledge, risk assessment and implementation of mitigation measures.
Minimally processed and ultra-processed food daily consumption on the transition of nutritional status to obesity: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Silva Leonardo Santos Lopes da , Abdalla Pedro Pugliesi , Bohn Lucimere , de Araújo Rafael Gavassa , Batalhão Daniel de Freitas , Venturini Ana Cláudia Rossini , Carvalho Anderson dos Santos , Duncan Michael , Mota Jorge , Machado Dalmo Roberto Lopes
Published: February 2022

BackgroundThe role of food type consumption on nutritional status (NS) transition from overweight (OW) to obesity (OB), represents a higher risk in the development of chronic diseases, morbidity, premature mortality, and health services burden compared to normal weight to OW. In this sense, minimally and ultra-processed foods can impact on NS transition. However, the influence of quantity consumption has not yet been investigated. We aimed to investigate the magnitude of the impact of ultra-processed food and minimally processed food consumption in the change of NS from OW to OB.MethodsWe included 15.024 participants (9.618 OW [body mass index 25.0-29.9kg/m2], 5.406 OB [body mass index ≥30kg/m2]) with age ranging from 18 to 59 years-old from the 2019 baseline survey of the Surveillance of Risk Factors and Protection for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Survey (VIGITEL). Minimally processed and ultra-processed food daily consumption and other confounding variables (age, sex, scholarity, physical activity, hypertension, and diabetes) were measured. Binary logistic regression analyzes the magnitude of the impact of ultra-processed food and minimally processed food consumption in the change of OW to OB. The odds ratio (OR) of transition (OW to OB) was calculated.ResultsIn general, minimally processed food (1st=1[food/day]; 2nd=6[food/day]; 3rd=7[food/day]; 4th=8[food/day]) presented higher quartile values compared to ultra-processed food (1st=1[food/day]; 2nd=1[food/day]; 3rd=2[food/day]; 4th=4[food/day]). For each minimally processed food consumed, there was a -5.9% chance of NS transition to OB. In this sense, the higher quartile (4th) of minimally processed food consumption represents less chance of the NS transition to OB (OR: -47.2%; p<0.001). On the other hand, each ultra-processed food consumed presented a chance of 3.7% of NS transition to OB. Therefore, higher consumption of ultra-processed food (4th quartile) shows higher chance of the NS transition to OB (OR: +14.8%; p<0.001).ConclusionThe consumption of ultra-processed and minimally processed foods presented a magnitude to change the NS (from OW to OB), even when controlled by sociodemographic factors, physical activity, hypertension, and diabetes. Therefore, our findings can help to guide the population about the magnitude of the effects that the consumption of different types of foods can modify their health.
Research Protocol: Prehabilitation For Holmium Laser Enucleation Of The Prostate (Holep)
Authors: Mahmood Mubariz , Cottam Daniel , Ahmed Momen Sid , Nkwam Nkwam , Rampal Tara
Published: February 2022

Surgery causes a physiological and psychological stress response which can lead to a decline in functional capacity (1). The adoption of prehabilitation into existing pathways can improve postoperative outcomes. HoLEP (Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate) is a minimally invasive surgical treatment for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. We aim to assess the feasibility of providing multimodal prehabilitation to patients with an ASA score of 2 or more. The prehabilitation interventions include supervised cardiopulmonary exercise, muscle conditioning, dietary/lifestyle advice and exploration of psychosocial needs. Patients will also receive a medication review by a specialist pharmacist. Compliance is to be assessed with a phonecall 2 weeks into the program and 6 weeks post procedure. Viability of the project will be determined by the ability of the organisation to deliver and sustain the program. The data to be collected will include project costs, time spent, patient satisfaction, length of stay, early and later surgical complications and daycase rate. This project will assess feasibility of perioperative optimisation programmes for non-oncology surgical pathways for maximal patient benefit.
Social Motivation: The Impact of Social Status on the Other-Race Effect
Authors: Fan Gaixia , Wang Yuetan , Zhao Shan , Wang Mengyue , Yue Yonglei , Wang Yapeng , Ding Xiaobin
Published: February 2022

The other-race effect refers to the phenomenon in which the chance of individuals misidentifying faces from other races more than their own race is significantly higher. This study explored the effect of motivation on the other-race effect by manipulating the social status of faces. The results showed that: (1) compared to other-race faces with low social status, when individuals' perceptions of the social status of other-race faces increased, individuals' recognition scores for high social status other-race faces increased, and the other-race effect disappeared, and (2) when individuals' perceptions of the social status of other-race faces decreased, there was no significant difference in individuals' recognition scores of other-race faces, of either high or low social status. These findings suggest that motivation has a significant impact on the other-race effect.
In vitro pollen germination and pollen viability study in brinjal
Authors: Ginoya A.V. , Patel J. B. , Delvadiya I. R.
Published: February 2022

For hybrid seed production, it is prerequisite to know the floral biology of the crop and pollen biology is an integral part of flower biology of any crop to understand artificial hybridization more efficiently. After pollination, germination of the viable pollen is important for proper fertilization of ovary and to develop optimum fruit and seed set. So, the study aimed to evaluate the in vitro pollen germination and viability of brinjal in ambient as well as cold storage conditions. The pollen germination was tested in vitro, by incubating the pollen grains for 3 hours at 25ᵒ C in different concentrations of sucrose, boron and Agar media [(T1 = 2 % Sucrose + 4 ppm Boron, T2 = 2 % Sucrose + 8 ppm Boron, T3 = 5 % Sucrose + 4 ppm Boron, T4 = 5 % Sucrose + 8 ppm Boron, T5 = 10 % Sucrose + 4 ppm Boron, T6 = 10 % Sucrose + 8 ppm Boron, T7 = 0.5 % Agar + 10 % Sucrose + 100 ppm Boron, T8 = 1 % Agar + 10 % Sucrose + 300 ppm Boron, T9 = 0.5 % Agar + 12 % Sucrose + 100 ppm Boron, T10 = 1 % Agar + 12 % Sucrose + 300 ppm Boron, T11 = Distilled water (Control)]. The viability of the pollen grains was evaluated following acetocarmine staining technique. The best germination of fresh pollen was recorded in treatment of 1 % Agar + 12 % Sucrose + 300 ppm Boron. A close perusal of the results of in vitro pollen germination showed that the lowest germination percentage was recorded in media with different concentration of sucrose and boron, not containing agar, and there is no germination of pollen takes place in distilled water. Significantly the highest in vitro pollen germination and pollen viability percentage was recorded in fresh pollen (95.00%) and as the duration of pollen storage increased in both the storage conditions, the in vitro pollen germination decreased. Of the two storage conditions of pollen, the higher in vitro germination percentage of pollen found in pollen stored in refrigerator compared to ambient storage condition. This study help in identification for culture media used to determine in vitro pollen germination and time period for pollen viability by in vitro pollen germination and pollen viability methods.
Nuclear Expression of Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 A1 in Breast Cancer.
Authors: Flores Mariana López , Franco Emiliano Honrado , Cousido Luis Felipe Sánchez , Carazo Carlos Minguito , Guadarrama Oscar Sanz , González Laura López , Pascual María Eva Vallejo , Torre Antonio José Molina de la , Palomo Andrés García , González Ana López
Published: February 2022

Background: ﻿Cytoplasmatic expression of Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 A1 (ALDH1A1) has been identified as a cancer stem cell marker and related to an unfavorable prognosis. However, nuclear expression of ALDH1A1 has not been described in breast cancer (BC) patients yet. Methods: A retrospective, historical cohort study of patients diagnosed with early or locally advanced triple negative (TN) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive (HER2+) BC treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy was conducted. Patients who had an available tumor sample from the diagnosis and who underwent surgery after the neoadjuvant treatment were included. Metastatic patients and non-evaluative biopsy sample cases were excluded. Immunostaining against ALDH1A1 was performed. The aim of this study was to assess the expression of nuclear ALDH1A1 in BC and its relation with clinicopathological features and outcomes.Results: 75 patients were analyzed (100% women, mean age 53.6±11.7 years, 42.7% TN, 57.3% HER2+ tumors). 28% had obesity, 32 (42.7%) had a tumor size ≤5 cm and 52 (69.3%) positive lymph nodes. 40 (53.3%) patients had cytoplasmatic ALDH1A1 expression. From them, 18 (24%) also expressed nuclear ALDH1A1 staining and 22 (29.3%) only had cytoplasmatic expression. 57 (76%) patients had negative nuclear ALDH1A1. At the end of the follow-up (54.4 [38.3-87.6] months), 47 patients (62.7%) remained disease free and 20 (26.7%) died. Patients with nuclear ALDH1A1 had higher prevalence of obesity when comparing to exclusively positive cytoplasmatic ALDH1A1 (p = 0.003) and versus those with negative ALDH1A1 expression (p = 0.017); and also, smaller size compared to those without nuclear ALDH1A1 staining (p = 0.044). Furthermore, in patients with positive nuclear ALDH1A1 a tendency to superior disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) was observed when compared to positive cytoplasmatic and negative ALDH1A1 tumors, albeit not statistically significant. Conclusions: In this cohort, nuclear positive expression of ALDH1A1 was higher in patients with obesity and smaller tumors. Patients with positive nuclear ALDH1A1 carcinomas appear to have better DFS and OS, although this was not statistically significant. Further research studies are needed to understand the functions of this enzyme and its possible role as a predictive and prognostic marker in BC.
Determination of PCDD/F and DL-PCB pollution levels, source appointment and risk assessment of surface sediments in dam lakes in Istanbul, TURKEY
Authors: CANLI Oltan , GÜZEL Barış , KARADEMIR Aykan
Published: February 2022

The current situation of the water resources of Istanbul, which is one of the important metropolises of Europe, should be known and constantly monitored by the reasons of the rapid increase in the city population, the acceleration of production-related industrial activities, the expansion of the city with construction activities and the decrease in precipitation. The purpose of this study was to reveal the situations of surface sediments collected from Istanbul water reservoirs in terms of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs, to identify possible sources, and to conduct their ecological risk assessment. Total PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs concentrations varied between 28.13-447.13 pg/g (average 136.75 pg/g) and 12.19-340.05 pg/g (average 72.09 pg/g). Corresponding TEQ values of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs were between 0.53-5.37 pg TEQ/g (average 2.23 pg TEQ/g) and 0.02-0.44 pg TEQ/g (average 0.12 pg TEQ/g), respectively. OCDD is the dominant congener by constituting about 75% of the total PCDD/Fs on average, while congener distributions of DL-PCBs showed the dominance of PCB-118 and PCB-105. The sediments taken from Kazandere dam have the lowest pollution levels for both PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs. The highest PCDD/F and DL-PCB amounts were measured in sediments of Alibey and Elmalı dams (closest to highly populated settlements of Istanbul), which are most affected by the air pollution caused by the traffic and combustion for residential heating. Almost all the sediments have total dioxin-like toxicity levels higher than the safe threshold level (with two exceptions) of 0.85 pg TEQ/g dw, proposed for ecological risk. Health risk assessment shows that levels of dioxin-like compounds would result in a total intake of 0.33 pg TEQ/kg bw/day even in the worst-case scenario, not exceeding the tolerable daily intake value of 1 pg TEQ/kg bw/day. Among exposure pathways, consumption of fish constitutes almost all the total intake, while contributions of other pathways are minimal.
Evaluating the Potential of Third Generation Metagenomic Sequencing for the Detection of BRD Pathogens and Genetic Determinants of Resistance in Chronically ill Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Freeman Claire N. , Herman Emily K. , Younes Jennifer Abi , Ramsay Dana E. , Erikson Nathan , Stothard Paul , Waldner Cheryl , Links Matthew G. , Otto Simon J. G.
Published: February 2022

Background.
Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality and is responsible for most of the injectable antimicrobial use in the feedlot industry. Traditional bacterial culture can be used to diagnose BRD by confirming the presence of causative pathogens and to support antimicrobial selection. However, given that bacterial culture takes up to a week and early intervention is critical for treatment success, culture has limited utility for informing rapid therapeutic decision-making. In contrast, metagenomic sequencing has the potential to quickly resolve all nucleic acid in a sample, including pathogen biomarkers and antimicrobial resistance genes. In particular, third-generation Oxford Nanopore Technology sequencing platforms provide long reads and access to raw sequencing data in real-time as it is produced, thereby reducing the time from sample collection to diagnostic answer. The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic performance of nanopore metagenomic sequencing to traditional culture and sensitivity methods as applied to nasopharyngeal samples from segregated groups of chronically ill feedlot cattle, previously treated with antimicrobials for nonresponsive pneumonia or lameness.
Results.
BRD pathogens were isolated from most samples and a variety of different resistance profiles were observed across isolates. The sequencing data indicated the samples were dominated by Moraxella bovoculi, Mannheimia haemolytica, Mycoplasma dispar, and Pasteurella multocida, and included a wide range of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), encoding resistance for up to seven classes of antimicrobials. Genes conferring resistance to beta-lactams were the most commonly detected, while the tetH gene was detected in the most samples overall. Metagenomic sequencing detected the BRD pathogens of interest more often than did culture, but there was limited concordance between phenotypic resistance to antimicrobials and the presence of relevant ARGs.
Conclusions.
Metagenomic sequencing can reduce the time from sampling to results, detect pathogens missed by bacterial culture, and identify genetically encoded determinants of resistance. Increasing sequencing coverage of target organisms will be an essential component of improving the reliability of this technology, such that it can be better used for the surveillance of pathogens of interest, genetic determinants of resistance, and to inform diagnostic decisions.
Renoprotective Effects of the Ginger (Zingiber officinale) in Diabetic Kidney Disease, Current Knowledge and Future Direction: A Systematic Review of Animal Studies
Authors: Veisi Parisa , Zarezade Meysam , Rostamkhani Helya , Ghoreishi Zohreh
Published: February 2022

Purposeapproximately 40% of diabetic patients suffer from diabetic kidney disease, and it is the main cause of CKD in the world. Therefore, the prevention of renal complications is of importance in diabetic patients. Ginger (zingiber officinale Rosco) is popular spice and natral medicine. The presence of a systematic review focused on the existing evidence of the renoprotective effect of the ginger extract in Diabetic kidney disease. MethodsThe literature search was performed in online database such as PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, ProQuest databases, and google scholar inception up to november 2021. FindingsThe review selected 41 articles that met eligibility criteria. Ginger supplementation was found to be associated with a significant decrease in blood glucose 28 studies. nine studies showed a significant reduction in MDA after supplementation. Also, sixteen studies showed a decreasing effect on creatinine. fifteen studies reported a decrease in total cholesterol (TC) and fourteen studies report decrease in triglycerides (TG). In twenty-six studies, ginger reduced renal injuries from diabetes. ImplicationsGinger could improve blood sugar indices, lipid profile, some inflammatory factors, oxidative stress, and pathologic injuries in diabetic kidney disease. However, future high-quality clinical trials and meta-analyses are required for a solid consensus.
Massive Drift of Pumice Stones Might Trigger Coastal Ecological Transitions
Authors: Ohno Yoshikazu , Iguchi Akira , Ijima Mariko , Yasumoto Ko , Suzuki Atsushi
Published: February 2022

An intensive underwater volcanic eruption occurred in the Ogasawara Islands on 13–15 August 2021, bringing unprecedented amounts of pumice to the coast of Okinawa Island in the Ryukyu Archipelago, 1,300 km west of the eruption site, approximately 2 months later. The coast of Okinawa Island, especially along the northern part, is home to many typical subtropical seascapes, including coral reefs and mangrove forests, so the possible impact of the large amount of pumice is attracting attention. Here, we report early evidence of ecosystem changes that may be the result of large-scale pumice shoaling on coastal beaches, estuaries, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. Massive pumice drift is a major obstacle to fishing activities and ship traffic, but possible future long-term changes in coastal ecosystems should also be noted. The phenomena observed on Okinawa Island are expected to occur not only in the Ryukyu Islands but also along the coasts of Kyushu, Shikoku, Honshu Islands, where pumice is expected to drift later.
Use Of Natural Deep Eutectic Systems As New Cryoprotectant Agents In The Vitrification Of Mammalian Cells
Authors: Jesus Ana Rita , Duarte Ana Rita C. , Paiva Alexandre
Published: February 2022

In this work we present the potential of Natural Deep Eutectic Systems (NADES) as new vitrification media for the cryopreservation of mammalian cells. Several NADES composed of natural metabolites were prepared and tested as CPAs in two cell lines, L929 and HacaT cells. After the harvesting, cells were mixed with the eutectic systems, and frozen directly into liquid nitrogen to achieve a vitreous state. Then, the cells were thawed and it was observed that NADES were able to exert a significant cryoprotective effect in L929 cells, when compared with DMSO or in the absence of a CPA. For HacaT cells, only a eutectic system showed a slightly improvement in cell survival, while DMSO caused complete cell death. Moreover, the thermal behaviour of the best systems was studied for further understanding the protective properties of NADES as CPAs, and have shown a significant difference in terms of Tm and Tc when compared with DMSO and water. Additionally, the results obtained showed that NADES can be maintained in the growth media after the thawing step, without compromising cell viability. In summary, we have shown the great potential of NADES to be used as CPAs for the cryopreservation of different cell types, using the vitrification method.
An immune-related microRNA signature prognostic model for pancreatic carcinoma and association with immune microenvironment
Authors: Shen Qian , Li JunChen , Pan Xue , Zhang ChuanLong , Jiang XiaoChen , Li Yi , Chen Yan , Pang Bo
Published: February 2022

Objective
To establish a prognostic model based on immune-related microRNA (miRNA) for pancreatic carcinoma.
Methods
Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was performed using the "WGCNA" package to find the key module genes involved in pancreatic carcinoma. Spearman correlation analysis was conducted to screen immune-related miRNAs. Uni- and multi-variate COX regression analyses were carried out to identify miRNAs prognostic for overall survival (OS) of pancreatic carcinoma, which were then combined to generate a prognostic model. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, distribution plot of survival status in patients and regression analysis were collectively performed to study the accuracy of the model in prognosis. Target genes of the miRNAs in the model were intersected with the key module genes, and a miRNA-mRNA network was generated and visualized by Cytoscape3.8.0. TIMER analysis was conducted to study the abundance of immune infiltrates in tumor microenvironment of pancreatic carcinoma. Expression levels of immune checkpoint genes in subgroups stratified by the model were compared by Wilcoxon test. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was performed to analyze the enriched signaling pathways between subgroups.
Results
Differential analysis revealed 1,826 genes differentially up-regulated in pancreatic carcinoma and 1,276 genes differentially down-regulated. A total of 700 immune-related miRNAs were obtained, of which 7 miRNAs were significantly associated with OS of patients and used to establish a prognostic model with accurate predictive performance. There were 99 mRNAs overlapped from the 318 target genes of the 7 miRNAs and the key modules genes analyzed by WGCNA. Patient samples were categorized as high or low risk according to the prognostic model, which were significantly associated with dendritic cell infiltration and expression of immune checkpoint genes (TNFSF9, TNFRSF9, KIR3DL1, HAVCR2, CD276 and CD80). GSEA showed remarkably enriched signaling pathways in the two subgroups.
Conclusion
This study identified an immune-related 7-miRNA based prognostic model for pancreatic carcinoma, which could be used as a reliable tool for prognosis.
Analysis of the expression of mTOR in tissues of females of specie Mesocricetus auratus infected by Zika virus
Authors: Pereira Luan Filipe de Souza , de Oliveira Edivaldo Herculano Correa , de Melo Karla Fabiane Lopes , de Luna Francisco Canindé Ferreira , Franco Edna Cristina Santos , Vasconcelos Pedro Fernando da Costa , Casseb Samir Mansour Moraes
Published: February 2022

Arboviruses are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a major public health problem, due to their growing territorial spread and the great need for preventive and control actions, which are increasingly complex. Among the arboviruses that present the greatest circulation is the Zika virus (ZIKV). Thus, this work aims to evaluate the expression of mTOR in tissues of females of the species Mesocricetus auratus infected with the Zika virus . The samples used in this study come from a larger project entitled “Experimental Zika virus infection in golden hamsters ( Mesocricetus auratus )” from the sexually transmitted group, previously approved by the Ethics Committee on Animal Use (CEUA) of Evandro Chagas Institute with registration number 24/2016. The samples are a total of 63 samples, divided between ZIKV-infected and non-infected animals. This study showed how Zika virus may be related to mTOR 1 and mTOR 2 expressions. The comparative results to viral load emphasize the correlation between the virus and mTOR. Such correlation is of importance to ZIKV, for protein regulation pathways and virus interference on those pathways may turn out to be a factor related to its pathogenic mechanism.
Structural dynamics of DNA strand break sensing by PARP-1 at a single-molecule level
Authors: Sefer Anna , Kallis Eleni , Eilert Tobias , Röcker Carlheinz , Neuhaus David , Eustermann Sebastian , Michaelis Jens
Published: February 2022

Single stranded breaks (SSBs) are the most frequent DNA lesions threatening genomic integrity. A highly kinked DNA structure in complex with human PARP-1 led to the proposal that SSB sensing in Eukaryotes relies on dynamics of both the broken DNA double helix and PARP-1’s multi-domain organization. Here, we directly probe this fundamental yet poorly understood process at the single-molecule level. Quantitative SM-FRET and structural ensemble calculations reveal how PARP-1 binding converts DNA SSBs from a largely unperturbed conformation into the highly kinked state. Binding of the second N-terminal zinc finger yields an intermediate DNA conformation that can be recognized by the first zinc finger. Thus, the data is inconsistent with a conformational selection model, instead an induced fit mechanism via a multi-domain assembly cascade drives SSBs sensing. Interestingly, a clinically used PARP-1 inhibitor Niraparib shifts the equilibrium towards the unkinked state, whereas the inhibitor EB47 stabilizes the kinked state.
Relationship Between Exercise Intensity and IL-6 Increase During a Long-distance Running Race
Authors: Jouffroy Romain , Anglicheau Dany , Mansencal Nicolas , Toussaint Jean François , Antero Juliana
Published: February 2022

ObjectivesIL-6 plasma concentration (IL-6PC) reflects the systemic inflammation related to the exercise intensity level. This study aims to describe IL-6PC kinetic during a long-distance running. MethodsIL-6PC was measured in 20 male runners before (0 km), at each refreshment points (at 21 and 53 km i.e., k21 & k53) and at the end of an 80-km long-distance running (k80). IL-6PC variations (absolute and relative values in each of the 3 sections (S)) were calculated over S1 [0-k21], S2 [k21-k53] and S3 [k53-k80] and compared with the exercise intensity (duration*speed race), within each section.ResultsThe average race speed decreases progressively: 9.9 ± 0.8 in S1, 7.0 ± 0.8 in S2 and 6.1 ± 0.8 km.h-1 in S3. Mean IL-6PC increased during the running: 2.1 ± 0.6 ng.l-1 at 0 km, 21.0 ± 11.3 ng.l-1 at k21, 38.9 ± 13.0 ng.l-1 at k53 and 49.8 ± 11.9 ng.l-1 at k80. Exercise intensity increase between S1 (24.2 ± 0.5) - S2 (51.9 ± 3.2) (p=0.04) but not between S2 and S3 (67.4 ± 4.5) (p=0.69). A association was retrieved between exercise intensity and IL-6PC at the end of each section: S1 (p=0.03), S2 (p=0.04) and S3 (p<10-3). IL-6PC variation was associated with exercise intensity within S1 (p=0.03) and S2 (p=2.10-3) and showed a least a trend within S3 (p=0.06).ConclusionIL-6PC increase occurs during the early stage of a long-distance running, is associated with the running intensity and remains stable after intensity reduction related to speed running decrease.
CD56Bright NK Cell Expansion and Low Expression of Cytotoxic Molecules in CD56Dim NK Cells in HIV/HCV Coinfected Patients
Authors: Gutiérrez-Iñiguez Cecilia , Cervantes-Rodríguez Paulina , Gutiérrez-Silerio Gloria , González-Hernández Luz Alicia , Andrade-Villanueva Jaime Federico , Toro-Arreola Susana Del , Bueno-Topete Miriam Ruth , Vega-Magaña Natali
Published: February 2022

Background
HIV/HCV coinfection is associated with a rapid progression to liver damage. Specifically, the dysregulation of NK cell populations is of special interest, as NK cells have been shown to effectively block HCV replication as well as an anti-fibrogenic activity. The NKp30 receptor has been linked to tumor cell lysis and has a crucial role during viral infections. In the present study, we determine the subpopulations of NK cells and the expression of NKp30 receptor and cytotoxicity molecules in patients with HIV/HCV.
Results
HIV/HCV coinfected patients present greater liver damage than the HIV control group, using the APRI and FIB-4 indices. NK cells frequency was decreased in the HIV/HCV group compared to the HIV group. CD56brigth cell frequency was increased and CD56dim was decreased in HIV/HCV patients. NKp30 expression was higher in CD56brigth subpopulation and lower in CD56dim subpopulation in the HIV/HCV group. However, the expression of the ζ chain (p < 0.0001), granzyme B, and perforin (p = 0.0474), were significantly decreased in CD56dim NKp30 + cells from HIV/HCV patients.
Conclusions
The expansion of the highly dysfunctional CD56brigth subpopulation and the low expression of cytotoxicity markers in CD56dim cells reflects an altered activity in NK cells of coinfected patients, which could contribute to the accelerated progression of liver damage.
Evaluating the impacts of school garden-based programmes on diet and nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes and practices among the school children: a systematic review
Authors: Gong Yun Yun , Chan Chong Ling , Tan Pui Yee
Published: February 2022

Background: Previous evidence suggests that school garden-based programmes (SGBP) may be a promising yet cost-effective intervention to improve children’s knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) on healthy eating. This review aimed to summarise and evaluate the evidence available on the impacts of SGBP in addressing diet and nutrition-related KAP among school-aged children. Methods: 5 databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science and Scopus were searched until February 2021. Randomised, non-randomised controlled and pre-post intervention studies investigating the impacts of SGBP on at least one of the outcomes of interest including diet and nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes towards fruits and vegetables (F&V), food diversity and dietary practice among school-aged children were included. Study selection and data extraction were performed by one reviewer and checked for accuracy by the other two reviewers in accordance with PRISMA guideline. Quality appraisal for studies included was assessed using American Dietetic Association Quality Criteria Checklist. Results: A total of 10,836 records were identified, and 35 studies that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included. This includes 25,726 students from 341 schools and 8 nurseries from 12 countries. Intervention duration ranged from 6 weeks to 4 years with 18 studies involving a varied degree of parental participation. SGBP, which majorly includes school gardening activities, cooking lessons and nutrition education, demonstrated beneficial effects on children nutritional knowledge, and their attitudes and acceptability towards vegetables, but not for fruits. However, no strong evidence supports its positive impact on children’s dietary practices including the actual F&V consumption and dietary diversity. No significant impact of parental involvement was found on the measured outcomes which may be partly due to poor parental engagement or low activity intensity during the intervention. Conclusion: These findings suggest that SGBP may be effective in promoting children's nutritional knowledge, attitudes and acceptability towards vegetables, however, the impacts may vary by the type, the extent, and the length of the programmes, and other factors such as parent involvement. Future SGBP is suggested to implement using a combined multidisciplinary approach targeting the children, parents, and community to effectively promote healthy eating among the children and prevent childhood obesity.
Fabrication of nano Ag encapsulated on ZnO/Fe2V4O13hybrid-heterojunction for photodecomposition of Methyl Orange
Authors: I MUTHUVEL , Gowthami K. , Krishnakumar B. , Surya C. , Thirunarayanan G. , Vaishnavi E.
Published: February 2022

Novel Ag encapsulated nanocompositesZnO/Fe2V4O13 (AZF) were synthesized with various wt% of the silver (from 1.0 to 2.5 wt% of Ag) by photo-deposition method using UV-A light. The nanostructure of the AZF was explored by various characterization techniques. Surface functional group was confirmed by FT-IR spectra, the crystalline nature of the material revealed by XRD patterns. Furthermore, surface morphology and optical properties of the composites were analyzed by SEM, HR-TEM UV-DRS and PL respectively. The photoactivity was tested against Methyl Orange (MO) degradation under UV light. The stability of the catalyst was confirmed by reusability measurements. Suitable degradation pathway was proposed based on intermediates obtained during degradation analyzed by GC-MS. Trapping experiments confirmed that super oxide radical anion (O2·–) has been consider as a most active species for this degradation process. Mineralization is confirmed by measurements of chemical oxygen demand (COD).
Determinants of adolescent pregnancy among adolescents in Wakiso and Kamuli Districts in Uganda; a case control study
Authors: Nicolette Nabukeera-Barungi , Theresa Piloya-Were , Fatuma Namusoke , Joseph Rujumba , Flavia Namiiro , Lorraine Oriokot , Paul Mubiri , Sabrina Bakeera-Kitaka
Published: February 2022

Background:
Uganda has unacceptably high teenage pregnancy rates whereby 1 in 4 adolescent girls have been pregnant by 18 years. This has social, financial and health consequences for the adolescents, their children and the whole society. It is therefore important to identify the adolescents at highest risk so that they can be targeted with interventions to reduce teenage pregnancy. Our study aimed to determine risk factors for pregnancy among adolescents in one rural and one urban district in Uganda.
Methods
We conducted a mixed-methods study among girls aged 13 to 19 years in a rural and urban district in Uganda. Quantitatively, we used an unmatched case control design where cases were 200 adolescents who were currently or previously pregnant while 400 controls were adolescents who had ever experienced a pregnancy. The 600 were divided equally between the 2 districts. Quantitative data was analyzed using STATA version 14. Qualitative methods included 17 focus group discussions with adolescents and their parents, 10 in-depth interviews with adolescents and 20 key informant interviews with various key stakeholders. Audio recordings were transcribed and analyzed using a content thematic approach using Nvivo.
Results
Of the 600 girls, mean age was 16.9 years (SD 3.84), 57.6% were not in a sexual relationship and 75.3% were in-school. Independent risk factors for adolescent pregnancy were age; AOR 1.69 (95%CI; 1.48–1.95), out-of-school AOR 6.13 (95%CI 2.91–12.92), a friend with pregnancy AOR 1.91 (95%CI; 1.23–2.96), cigarette smoking experience AOR 6.68 (1.42–31.46), working for money AOR 1.70 (1.05–2.74) and correct contraceptive knowledge AOR 1.32 (95%CI; 1.13–1.54). Protective factors included positive personal attitudes, higher education of the father and larger household size.
Reanalysis of the Revised EEDI Parameters for Inland Ships of Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan S M Rashidul , Karim Md. Mashud
Published: February 2022

Background
A revision of the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) formulation was previously proposed to be useful for inland ships of Bangladesh. The study had incorporated the shallow water effect using Schlichting’s method, however, the evaluation and presentation of Schlichting’s results did not cover all range of ship parameters. In addition to that, the previous proposal was not based on field studies and the consideration main engine’s Maximum Continuous Rating (MCR) was not appropriate. This study has corrected the previously proposed EEDI formulation for inland ships of Bangladesh based on the physical investigation.
Methods
15 inland ships of Bangladesh (05 cargo, 05 oil tanker and 05 passenger ships) have been physically investigated. The impact of shallow water effect on EEDI was assessed based on field study, which was compared with approved methods. It was assumed with reasonable considerations that the bank/restricted channel effects on the ship are negligible. The MCR was also fixed based on the field study.
Results
It was found that the deviations of Schlichting's results varied from 31.34–81.46% in comparison to the investigated results. The deviations of results calculated by Lackenby and Barras methods were varied from 10.10–43.83% and − 22.19–16.53% to the field studies. In addition to that, MCR has been measured for the same 15 ships. Investigated results show that the average MCR for inland cargo and oil tankers of Bangladesh is 70% whereas it is 80% for passenger ships. Based on the key findings of the field studies, a revised EEDI formulation is proposed for the inland ships of Bangladesh.
Understanding the missing clusters problem at the Galactic center. Dissolved cluster(s) detection in the Sgr B1 region.
Authors: Nogueras-Lara Francisco , Schödel Rainer , Neumayer Nadine
Published: February 2022

The Milky Way’s center is the closest galaxy nucleus and our Galaxy’s most extreme environment. Although its volume is less than 1% of the one of the Galactic disk, up to 10% of all new-born stars in the Galaxy in the past 100 Myr formed there. Therefore, it constitutes a perfect laboratory to understand star formation under extreme conditions, similar to those in starburst or high-redshift galaxies. However, the only two known Galactic center young clusters account for <10% of the expected young stellar mass. Studying Sgr B1, a luminous Galactic center HII region, we find evidence for the presence of several 10^5 solar masses of young stars, probably tracing one or several dissolved young clusters that formed ~10 Myr ago. This is a large step toward a better understanding of star formation at the Galactic center, such as the fate of young clusters, and the possibly different initial mass function in this region.
Effects Of Endplate Chondrogenic Exosomes (Epcs-Exos) On Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Li Qiuwei , Wang Hong , CHEN xuewu
Published: February 2022

Study Design.In vitro laboratory studies.Objectives.To explore the effect of chondrocell-derived exosomes on intervertebral disc degeneration, and provide a new idea for IDD treatment.Summary of Background Data.The research of exosomes and their regenerative effects have been verified in the research of repair in other tissues and organs at our country and abroad, including osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, lung injury, fracture healing, central nervous system disease, cancer and other diseases treatment [1] . The aim of this study was to investigate whether exosomes derived from endplate cells could inhibit the degeneration of endplate and play an important role in the prevention and treatment of disc degeneration.Methods.EPCs-Exos derived from endplate chondrocytes were prepared and identified by Nanoparticle tracking analyzer, transmission electron microscope, and immunoblotting to detect surface markers, it was confirmed by immunofluorescence assay that it could be ingested by nucleus pulposus cells. The degeneration of cartilage endplates was evaluated by detecting the contents of Aggrecan, COL 1A, COL 2A and RNA by RT-PCR and WB.Results.EPCs-Exos can be ingested by nucleus pulposus cells and up-regulate the expression of Aggrecan, COL 2A and their mRNA, down-regulate the expression of COL 1A and their mRNA. Conclusion.EPCS-Exo can further inhibit the degeneration of intervertebral disc by acting on nucleus pulposus cells and thus the degeneration of cartilage endplate.
UN@C82: A U≡N Triple Bond Captured inside Fullerene Cages
Authors: Chen Ning , Meng Qingyu , Abella Laura , Yao Yang-Rong , Sergentu Dumitru-Claudiu , Yang Wei , Liu Xieye , Zhuang Jiaxin , Echegoyen Luis , Autschbach Jochen
Published: February 2022

Actinide diatomic molecules are ideal models to study elusive actinide multiple bonds, but they have only been studies in solid inert gas matrices to date. Here we report the unprecedented U ≡ N diatomic species captured in two different fullerene cages. UN@Cs(6)-C82 and UN@C2(5)-C82, the first diatomic clusterfullerenes, were successfully synthesized and fully characterized. X-ray single crystal diffraction reveals very short U-N bond lengths of 1.760 Å in both UN@Cs(6)-C82 and UN@C2(5)-C82. Moreover, U ≡ N was found to be immobilized and coordinated to the fullerene cages at 100 K but it spins inside the cage at 273 K. Quantum-chemical calculations show a (UN)2+@(C82)2− electronic structure with formal + 5 oxidation state (f1) of U and demonstrate the presence of a rare U ≡ N bond in the cluster fullerenes This study opens a new direction for endohedral fullerenes and constitutes a new approach to stabilize elusive yet fundamentally important actinide multiply bonded species.
Astrocytic chloride is brain state dependent and regulates cortical neuronal activity
Authors: Untiet Verena , Beinlich Felix Ralf Michael , Kusk Peter , Kjaerby Celia , Andersen Mie , Hauglund Natalie , Sigurdsson Björn , Hirase Hajime , Petersen Nicolas , Verkhratsky Alexei , Nedergaard Maiken
Published: February 2022

Information transfer within neuronal circuits depends on the balance and recurrent activity of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission. Chloride (Cl-) is the major CNS anion mediating inhibitory neurotransmission and thus essential for balanced brain function. Sustained activation of inhibitory synapses leads to a significant reduction in the amplitude of IPSPs over time, reflecting a collapse of the Cl- gradient, due to Cl- influx into neurons through GABAA receptors. Astrocytes are key homeostatic glial cells populating all parts of the central nervous system (CNS). Despite astrocytic contribution to brain state transitions, the role of these cells in regulating inhibition remains unexplored. Here we show, for the first time, that astrocytes act as a dynamic Cl- reservoir regulating Cl- homeostasis in awake mice. Intracellular chloride concentration ([Cl-]i) in astrocytes is high and stable during sleep. In awake mice astrocytic [Cl-]i is lower and fluctuates in response to both sensory input and motor activity. Stimulation of astrocytic GABAA receptors induces Cl- efflux, providing an additional source of Cl- for inhibitory transmission. Increasing astrocytic [Cl-]i by optogenetic manipulations alleviates neuronal activity induced by locomotion or whisker stimulation. Our analysis shows that astrocytes serve as a dynamic source of extracellular Cl- available for GABAergic transmission in awake mice, which represents a novel mechanism for modulation of the inhibitory tone.